Teratology study of amide derivatives of branched aliphatic carboxylic acids with 4-aminobenzensulfonamide in NMRI mice.

PubMed

Onishi, Yuko; Okada, Akinobu; Noyori, Hiroko; Okamura, Ai; Hen, Naama; Yagen, Boris; Bialer, Meir; Fujiwara, Michio

2013-08-01

Valproic acid (VPA), widely used to treat epilepsy, bipolar disorders, and migraine prophylaxis, is known to cause neural tube and skeletal defects in humans and animals. Aminobenzensulfonamide derivatives of VPA with branched aliphatic carboxylic acids, namely 2-methyl-N-(4-sulfamoyl-phenyl)-pentanamide (MSP), 2-ethyl-N-(4-sulfamoyl-phenyl)-butyramide (ESB), 2-ethyl-4-methyl-N-(4-sulfamoyl-phenyl)-pentanamide (EMSP), and 2-ethyl-N-(4-sulfamoyl-benzyl)-butyramide (ESBB), have shown more potent anticonvulsant activity than VPA in preclinical testing. Here, we investigated the teratogenic effects of these analogous compounds of VPA in NMRI mice. Pregnant NMRI mice were given a single subcutaneous injection of either VPA at 1.8 or 3.6 mmol/kg, or MSP, ESB, EMSP, or ESBB at 1.8, 3.6, or 4.8 mmol/kg on gestation day (GD) 8. Cesarean section was performed on GD 18, and the live fetuses were examined for external and skeletal malformations. Compared with VPA, which induced neural tube defects (NTDs) in fetuses at 1.8 and 3.6 mmol/kg, the analog derivatives induced no NTDs at dose levels up to 4.8 mmol/kg (except for a single case of exencephaly at 4.8 mmol/kg MSP). Skeletal examination showed several abnormalities mainly at the axial skeletal level with VPA at 1.8 mmol/kg. Fused vertebrae and/or fused ribs were also observed with MSP, ESB, EMSP, and ESBB, they were less severe and seen at a lower incidence that those induced by VPA at the same dose level. In addition to exerting more potent preclinical antiepileptic activity, teratology comparison indicates that aminobenzensulfonamide analogs are generally more weakly teratogenic than VPA. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Remarkable recovery in an infant presenting with extensive perinatal cervical cord injury.

PubMed

Ul Haq, Israr; Gururaj, A K

2012-12-10

Cervical-cord damage is a complication of a difficult delivery, and results in spinal shock with flaccidity progressing to spastic paralysis. Conventionally, outlook for such patients is extremely poor and most will recover only slightly from quadriplegia and autonomic dysfunction. Here, we report a case in which the extent of damage considerably contrasted with the outcome and recovery. A full-term baby girl born by difficult vaginal delivery displayed bilateral flaccid paralysis of the lower limbs with absent spontaneous movements, weakness of both upper limbs, hyporeflexia in all limbs and axial hypotonia. MRI of cervicothoracic spine exhibited raised signal intensity in the dorsal aspects of C7 to T1 signifying myelopathy. MRI at 4 months revealed a near-total transection of the cervical cord. However, at 6 months, the child could move all lower limbs independently with a marked increase in power. There was no spasticity, wasting or incontinence. Reflexes had also returned.

77 FR 32400 - Fenamidone; Pesticide Tolerance; Technical Amendment

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-01

...., of the preamble, the text correctly listed the tolerance level for the commodity ``strawberry'' at 0... the tolerance level for ``strawberry'' at 0.15. This technical amendment corrects that error. III. Why... revising the entry for ``Strawberry'' in paragraph (d) to read as follows: Sec. [emsp14]180.579 Fenamidone...

CTV, ITV, ETV, PTV: Television and Education in the 1960s.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Distance Education Report, 2000

2000-01-01

Discusses television in the 1960s as a form of communication including commercial television (CTV), public television (PTV), educational television (ETV), and instructional television (ITV). The Educational Media Study Panel (EMSP), an official advisory group to the Commissioner and the U.S. Office of Education, studied the growth of television…

77 FR 69507 - Proposed Model Safety Evaluation for Plant-Specific Adoption of Technical Specifications Task...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-11-19

..., ``Revise Shutdown Margin Definition To Address Advanced Fuel Designs'' AGENCY: Nuclear Regulatory... Shutdown Margin Definition to Address Advanced Fuel Designs.'' DATES: Comment period expires on December 19... address newer BWR fuel designs, which may be more reactive at shutdown temperatures above 68[emsp14][deg]F...

78 FR 13100 - Models for Plant-Specific Adoption of Technical Specifications Task Force Traveler TSTF-535...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-02-26

... Definition To Address Advanced Fuel Designs,'' Using the Consolidated Line Item Improvement Process AGENCY...-specific adoption using the Consolidated Line Item Improvement Process (CLIIP). Additionally, the NRC staff..., which may be more reactive at shutdown temperatures above 68[emsp14][deg]F. This STS improvement is part...

Novel mutation of SRD5A2 gene in a patient with 5α-reductase 2 deficiency from India.

PubMed

Shabir, Iram; Marumudi, Eunice; Khurana, Madan L; Khadgawat, Rajesh

2012-10-30

Master N had genital malformation at birth and had bilateral gonads in the labial fold. He was reared as a boy and corrective surgery was done at the age of 4 years and was reassessed at the age of 14 years. His testosterone/dihydrotestosterone (DHT) was 11.8 (reference range <=10). Molecular analysis of SRD5A2 gene indicated the presence of a novel heterozygous missense mutation of p.A52T in exon 1, which was also detected in mother. The father, sister and maternal grandfather were found to have normal SRD5A2 gene sequence. We also detected an intronic (1-2) homozygous T>C transition in patient, whereas both parents were found to have the same transition in heterozygous form. Although 5α-steroid reductase 2 deficiency is an autosomal-recessive disorder, in this case, it appears that there may be a dominant inheritance because only one identified mutation was present which was passed from mother to son.

GROUNDWATER REMEDIATION SOLUTIONS AT HANFORD

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

Gilmore, Tyler J.; Truex, Michael J.; Williams, Mark D.

2007-02-26

In 2006, Congress provided funding to the U. S. Department of Energy (DOE) to study new technologies that could be used to treat contamination from the Hanford Site that might impact the Columbia River. The contaminants of concern are primarily metals and radionuclides, which are byproducts of Hanford’s cold war mission to produce plutonium for atomic weapons. The DOE asked Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) to consider this problem and develop approaches to address the contamination that threatens the river. DOE identified three high priority sites that had groundwater contamination migrating towards the Columbia river for remediation. The contaminants includedmore » strontium-90, uranium and chromium. Remediation techniques for metals and radionuclides focus primarily on altering the oxidation state of the contaminant chemically or biologically, isolating the contaminants from the environment through adsorption or encapsulation or concentrating the contaminants for removal. A natural systems approach was taken that uses a mass balance concept to frame the problem and determine the most appropriate remedial approach. This approach provides for a scientifically based remedial decision. The technologies selected to address these contaminants included an apatite adsorption barrier coupled with a phytoremediation to address the strontium-90 contamination, injection of polyphosphate into the subsurface to sequester uranium, and a bioremediation approach to reduce chromium contamination in the groundwater. The ability to provide scientifically based approaches is in large part due to work developed under previous DOE Office of Science and Office of Environmental Management projects. For example, the polyphosphate and the bioremediation techniques, were developed by PNNL under the EMSP and NABIR programs. Contaminated groundwater under the Hanford Site poses a potential risk to humans and the Columbia River. These new technologies holds great promise for effectively remediating the residual waste that threatens the environment.« less

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

Nagy, Kathryn L.; Sturchio, Neil C.

This project, renewal of a previous EMSP project of the same title, is in its first year of funding at the University of Illinois at Chicago. The purpose is to continue investigating rates and mechanisms of reactions between primary sediment minerals found in the Hanford subsurface and leaked waste tank solutions. The goals are to understand processes that result in (1) changes in porosity and permeability of the sediment and resultant changes in flow paths of the contaminant plumes, (2) formation of secondary precipitates that can take up contaminants in their structures, and (3) release of mineral components that canmore » drive redox reactions affecting dissolved contaminant mobility. A post-doctoral scientist, Dr. Sherry Samson, has been hired and two masters of science students are beginning to conduct experimental research. One research project that is underway is focused on measurement of the dissolution rates of plagioclase feldspar in high pH, high nitrate, high Al-bearing solutions characteristic of the BX tank farms. The first set of experiments is being conduced at room temperature. Subsequent experiments will examine the role of temperature because tank solutions in many cases were near boiling when leakage is thought to have occurred and temperature gradients have been observed beneath the SX and BX tank farms. The dissolution experiments are being conducted in stirred-flow kinetic reactors using powdered labradorite feldspar from Pueblo Park, New Mexico.« less

The patient's perspective: How to create awareness for improving access to care and treatment of MS patients?

PubMed

Vermersch, Patrick; Faller, Andreas; Czarnota-Szałkowska, Dominika; Meesen, Bianca; Thalheim, Christoph

2016-08-01

There is currently no known cure for multiple sclerosis (MS). Four stakeholders play a major role in MS: healthcare professionals, regulators, payers and patients. In Europe, patients are represented by the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform (EMSP), which aims to improve MS management and patients' quality of life. The EMSP has recently shown that there are major disparities in Europe in terms of access to care and treatment. Implementing the Code of Good Practice and a standardised MS nurse training may be useful in harmonising MS management across Europe. Additionally, the burden for novel therapeutic options to be approved by regulatory agencies has to decrease in order to provide faster access of treatment to patients. Data collection (e.g. national registers) also appears crucial to help research and shape the most effective policy in each country. Finally, people with MS should get appropriate (financial) support in order to complete their studies and find a job, as their active participation in society requires proper access to education and employment. Moreover, as they are the ones affected by MS, they seem to be best placed to represent themselves and their needs and should be consulted more often during decision-making processes by policy makers, regulators and payers. © The Author(s), 2016.

Voluntary emotion regulation in anorexia nervosa: A preliminary emotion-modulated startle investigation.

PubMed

Racine, Sarah E; Forbush, Kelsie T; Wildes, Jennifer E; Hagan, Kelsey E; Pollack, Lauren O; May, Casey

2016-06-01

Emotion regulation difficulties are implicated in the development and maintenance of anorexia nervosa (AN). However, research has been limited by an almost exclusive reliance on self-report. This study is the first to use the emotion-modulated startle paradigm (EMSP) to investigate emotional reactivity and voluntary emotion regulation in individuals with AN. Twenty women with AN viewed negative, positive, neutral, and food images and were asked to enhance, suppress, or maintain their emotional responses mid-way through picture presentation. Startle eyeblink magnitudes in response to startle probes administered prior, and subsequent, to regulation instructions indexed emotional reactivity and regulation, respectively. On emotional reactivity trials, startle magnitudes were greater for negative, positive, and food images, compared to neutral images. Participants had difficulty suppressing startle responses to negative and food images, as indicated by non-significant suppress-maintain comparisons. In contrast, startle responses to enhance and suppress cues during presentation of pleasant images were comparable and significantly lower than maintain cues. Findings converge with self-report data to suggest that patients with AN have difficulties with voluntary emotion regulation. The EMSP may be a promising trans-diagnostic method for examining emotion regulation difficulties that underlie risk for eating disorders and other psychiatric conditions. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Subsurface high resolution definition of subsurface heterogeneity for understanding the biodynamics of natural field systems: Advancing the ability for scaling to field conditions. 1998 annual progress report

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

Majer, E.L.; Brockman, F.J.

1998-06-01

'This research is an integrated physical (geophysical and hydrologic) and microbial study using innovative geophysical imaging and microbial characterization methods to identify key scales of physical heterogeneities that affect the biodynamics of natural subsurface environments. Data from controlled laboratory and in-situ experiments at the INEEL Test Area North (TAN) site are being used to determine the dominant physical characteristics (lithologic, structural, and hydrologic) that can be imaged in-situ and correlated with microbial properties. The overall goal of this research is to contribute to the understanding of the interrelationships between transport properties and spatially varying physical, chemical, and microbiological heterogeneity. Themore » outcome will be an improved understanding of the relationship between physical and microbial heterogeneity, thus facilitating the design of bioremediation strategies in similar environments. This report summarizes work as of May 1998, the second year of the project. This work is an extension of basic research on natural heterogeneity first initiated within the DOE/OHER Subsurface Science Program (SSP) and is intended to be one of the building blocks of an integrated and collaborative approach with an INEEL/PNNL effort aimed at understanding the effect of physical heterogeneity on transport properties and biodynamics in natural systems. The work is closely integrated with other EMSP projects at INEEL (Rick Colwell et al.) and PNNL (Fred Brockman and Jim Fredrickson).'« less

What is the actual cost of providing the intrauterine system for contraception in a UK community sexual and reproductive health setting?

PubMed

Cook, Louise; Fleming, Charlotte

2014-01-01

The anticipated increase in uptake of intrauterine system (IUS) fittings is slower than predicted by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE). There is evidence to suggest that this is because of a high perceived cost of providing this contraceptive method. Whereas studies to date have all guessed at these costs, we calculated the actual costs of providing the IUS. We tracked the notes of 283 women who had an IUS fitted in our community sexual and reproductive health service for 5 years. We recorded duration of use, measured the actual cost of all appointments and interventions over the lifespan of the device, and compared our findings with NICE predicted costs. With 70% complete follow-up, the average duration of use of the IUS was 3.44 years compared to NICE's prediction of 3.32. The average annual cost of providing an IUS for contraception in community clinics was £54.55 per woman; this compares with £70.49 modelled by NICE for provision in primary care. Most (80%) of the cost is incurred in the first year. The cost of managing problems is small. Providing the IUS for contraception was 23% cheaper in the present study than that predicted by NICE and cheaper than providing combined oral contraception in our service. Fitting IUSs in community clinics may be cheaper than in primary care. Streamlining the patient pathway will reduce costs further. Restricting access to the IUS because of initial cost is a false economy.

SMART lunch box intervention to improve the food and nutrient content of children's packed lunches: UK wide cluster randomised controlled trial.

PubMed

Evans, C E L; Greenwood, D C; Thomas, J D; Cleghorn, C L; Kitchen, M S; Cade, J E

2010-11-01

Government standards are now in place for children's school meals but not for lunches prepared at home. The aim of this trial is to improve the content of children's packed lunches. A cluster randomised controlled trial in 89 primary schools across the UK involving 1291 children, age 8-9 years at baseline. Follow-up was 12 months after baseline. A "SMART" lunch box intervention programme consisted of food boxes, bag and supporting materials. The main outcome measures were weights of foods and proportion of children provided with sandwiches, fruit, vegetables, dairy food, savoury snacks and confectionery in each packed lunch. Levels of nutrients provided including energy, total fat, saturated fat, protein, non-milk extrinsic sugar, sodium, calcium, iron, folate, zinc, vitamin A and vitamin C. Moderately higher weights of fruit, vegetables, dairy and starchy food and lower weights of savoury snacks were provided to children in the intervention group. Children in the intervention group were provided with slightly higher levels of vitamin A and folate. 11% more children were provided with vegetables/salad in their packed lunch, and 13% fewer children were provided with savoury snacks (crisps). Children in the intervention group were more likely to be provided with packed lunches meeting the government school meal standards. The SMART lunch box intervention, targeting parents and children, led to small improvements in the food and nutrient content of children's packed lunches. Further interventions are required to bring packed lunches in line with the new government standards for school meals. Current controlled trials ISRCTN77710993.

Hypereosinophilia and acute bilateral facial palsy: an unusual presentation of a common disease.

PubMed

Webb, Alastair John Stewart; Conlon, Chris; Briley, Dennis

2012-10-01

A 60-year-old man presented with an acute, pruritic, erythematous rash associated with marked hypereosinophilia (2.34×10(9)/l (0.04-0.40)). There was eosinophilic infiltration on hepatic, bone marrow and lymph node biopsies, with multiple lung nodules and mild splenomegaly. However, extensive investigation excluded parasitic or bacterial causes, specific allergens or the Fip1L1 mutation seen in myeloproliferative hypereosinophilia. Six months into the illness, he developed an acute, left, complete lower motor neurone facial palsy over hours, and an acute right lower motor neurone facial palsy 2 weeks later, without recovery. Over the subsequent 3 months, he developed complex partial seizures, a transient 72-h non-epileptic encephalopathy and episodic vertigo with ataxia. Further investigation showed bilateral enhancement of the VII nerves and labyrinthis on gadolinium-enhanced MR brain scan, cerebrospinal fluid lymphocytosis and neurophysiological evidence of polyradicolopathy. His eosinophil count fell with corticosteroids, hydroxycarbamide, imatinib and ultimately mepolezumab, but without symptomatic improvement. Repeat lymph node biopsy showed Kaposi's sarcoma, leading to a diagnosis of HIV-1 infection with a modestly reduced CD4 count of 413×10(6)/l (430-1690). Hypereosinophila and eosinophilic folliculitis are recognised features of advanced HIV infection, and transient bilateral facial palsy occasionally occurs at the time of seroconversion. This is the first report of a chronic bilateral facial palsy likely due to primary HIV infection, not occurring during seroconversion and in association with hypereosinophilia. This case emphasises the protean manifestations of HIV infection and the need for routine testing in atypical clinical presentations.

Quantitative determination of polysulfide in albumins, plasma proteins and biological fluid samples using a novel combined assays approach.

PubMed

Ikeda, Mayumi; Ishima, Yu; Shibata, Akitomo; Chuang, Victor T G; Sawa, Tomohiro; Ihara, Hideshi; Watanabe, Hiroshi; Xian, Ming; Ouchi, Yuya; Shimizu, Taro; Ando, Hidenori; Ukawa, Masami; Ishida, Tatsuhiro; Akaike, Takaaki; Otagiri, Masaki; Maruyama, Toru

2017-05-29

Hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S) signaling involves polysulfide (RSS n SR') formation on various proteins. However, the current lack of sensitive polysulfide detection assays poses methodological challenges for understanding sulfane sulfur homeostasis and signaling. We developed a novel combined assay by modifying Sulfide Antioxidant Buffer (SAOB) to produce an "Elimination Method of Sulfide from Polysulfide" (EMSP) treatment solution that liberates sulfide, followed with methylene blue (MB) sulfide detection assay. The combined EMSP-MB sulfide detection assay performed on low molecular weight sulfur species showed that sulfide was produced from trisulfide compounds such as glutathione trisulfide and diallyl trisulfide, but not from the thiol compounds such as cysteine, cystine and glutathione. In the case of plasma proteins, this novel combined detection assay revealed that approximately 14.7, 1.7, 3.9, 3.7 sulfide mol/mol released from human serum albumin, α 1 -anti-trypsin, α 1 -acid glycoprotein and ovalbumin, respectively, suggesting that serum albumin is a major pool of polysulfide in human blood circulation. Taken together with the results of albumins of different species, the liberated sulfide has a good correlation with cysteine instead of methionine, indicating the site of incorporation of polysulfide is cysteine. With this novel sulfide detention assay, approximately 8,000, 120 and 1100 μM of polysulfide concentrations was quantitated in human healthy plasma, saliva and tear, respectively. Our promising polysulfide specific detection assay can be a very important tool because quantitative determination of polysulfide sheds light on the functional consequence of protein-bound cysteine polysulfide and expands the research area of reactive oxygen to reactive polysulfide species. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Antibiotics in urinary-tract infections. Sustained change in prescribing habits by practice test and self-reflection: a mixed methods before-after study.

PubMed

Kuehlein, T; Goetz, K; Laux, G; Gutscher, A; Szecsenyi, J; Joos, S

2011-06-01

BACKGROUND The German guideline recommends trimethoprim (TMP) for the treatment of uncomplicated lower-urinary-tract infections (uLUTI) in primary care. In the authors' research network, the participating general practitioners (GPs) were asked why they prescribe mostly quinolones instead. The GPs stated the perception of a high rate of therapy failure of TMP and strongly rejected the guideline. OBJECTIVE To examine prescribing behaviour for uLUTI and whether a practice test of TMP might effect a change in prescribing habits. METHODS The study was conducted using observational and qualitative elements. A first focus-group (n=6) assessed reasons for current prescribing behaviour. In a 3-month practice test, patients with uLUTI were prescribed TMP (150 mg twice for 3 days). In a second focus group, the GPs (n=12) were presented with the results of the practice test. RESULTS The first focus group revealed that prescribing was mainly driven by former hospital training and what was perceived as common therapy. GPs felt no need to change a successful regimen. In the practice test, TMP had a success rate of 94% (84 episodes of uLUTI). The second focus group revealed that the practice test had strongly changed opinions in favour of TMP. Self-reflection and ownership of data acquisition were seen as major contributions for change in prescribing. After the test period, TMP remained the antibiotic most often prescribed. CONCLUSION Internal evidence and peer-group opinion are strong determinants for clinical decisions. A self-conducted practice test, together with self-reflection in a peer group, strongly supports the process of change.

Chemiresistor microsensors for in-situ monitoring of volatile organic compounds : final LDRD report.

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

Thomas, Michael Loren; Hughes, Robert Clark; Kooser, Ara S.

2003-09-01

This report provides a summary of the three-year LDRD (Laboratory Directed Research and Development) project aimed at developing microchemical sensors for continuous, in-situ monitoring of volatile organic compounds. A chemiresistor sensor array was integrated with a unique, waterproof housing that allows the sensors to be operated in a variety of media including air, soil, and water. Numerous tests were performed to evaluate and improve the sensitivity, stability, and discriminatory capabilities of the chemiresistors. Field tests were conducted in California, Nevada, and New Mexico to further test and develop the sensors in actual environments within integrated monitoring systems. The field testsmore » addressed issues regarding data acquisition, telemetry, power requirements, data processing, and other engineering requirements. Significant advances were made in the areas of polymer optimization, packaging, data analysis, discrimination, design, and information dissemination (e.g., real-time web posting of data; see www.sandia.gov/sensor). This project has stimulated significant interest among commercial and academic institutions. A CRADA (Cooperative Research and Development Agreement) was initiated in FY03 to investigate manufacturing methods, and a Work for Others contract was established between Sandia and Edwards Air Force Base for FY02-FY04. Funding was also obtained from DOE as part of their Advanced Monitoring Systems Initiative program from FY01 to FY03, and a DOE EMSP contract was awarded jointly to Sandia and INEEL for FY04-FY06. Contracts were also established for collaborative research with Brigham Young University to further evaluate, understand, and improve the performance of the chemiresistor sensors.« less

Into the wardrobe of Narnia: beyond HIV infection a world of cardiovascular risk.

PubMed

Colotto, Marco; Renzi, Alessandra; Durante, Cosimo

2012-07-17

A 38-years-old HIV-hepatitis C virus (HCV) coinfected woman presented to us for dyslipidemia. Clinical, familial and laboratory data were consistent with the diagnosis of familial heterozygous hypercholesterolaemia. History, clinical examination and laboratory findings also supported suspected acromegaly. A pituitary MRI showed a sellar macroadenoma that was removed by transphenoidal surgery without complications. MRI carried out 6 months after surgery showed almost complete removal of the adenoma. This case report describes an uncommon association of diseases, very different for aetiology--genetic for FH, infectious for HIV and HCV, caused by excessive hormone secretion for acromegaly--clinical features and therapy, but all sharing a significant impact on cardiovascular risk as a common feature.

Development and pilot phase of a European MS register.

PubMed

Flachenecker, Peter; Khil, Laura; Bergmann, Sverrir; Kowalewski, Mariusz; Pascu, Ion; Pérez-Miralles, Francisco; Sastre-Garriga, Jaume; Zwingers, Thomas

2010-10-01

The MS-ID (Multiple Sclerosis Information Dividend) project was initiated by the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform (EMSP) in 2007 in order to identify and address major inequalities of MS treatment and care and thus eliminate disparities across the EU. One major approach to reach these goals in the longer term is the implementation of a European MS register for MS. The feasibility of an EU MS register was piloted among five countries (Germany, Iceland, Poland, Romania and Spain). Each country liaised with one documentation centre. Countries and test centres were both chosen in a way that a heterogeneous health care structure was provided. After reaching consensus about the data set, comprehension and acceptability of the two questionnaires-representing both the physician's and the patient's perspective-were tested with 20 MS patients in each country. In a 6-month data collection period, data from 547 patients were recorded. Most sections of the questionnaires were available for more than 90% of patients. The results obtained from the pilot phase of the European MS register indicate that it is feasible to collect standardized data across Europe. Thus, the European MS register may be a valuable instrument to compare treatment and care of MS across countries, estimate the cost of MS in Europe and monitor the implementation of and adherence to guidelines. It may help to reduce the disparities in MS care and treatment throughout Europe and eventually improve the quality of life of people with MS.

The process of recovery of a schizoaffectively disordered mind: a psychoanalytic theory of the functional psychoses, the psychodynamic pentapointed cognitive construct theory.

PubMed

Steggles, Gillian Ruth May

2012-08-24

A schizoaffectively disordered young woman made a small study of her mind while she was in psychoanalytic psychotherapy so that she might understand herself better. She worked closely with her psychoanalyst, and with the researcher who wrote up her case. She had a very difficult time for 30 years, but by the end of that time emerged completely recovered and with a great zest for life. This paper provides rare positive/constructive data about the processes involved in a case of schizoaffective disorder that involved manic as well as depressive and schizophrenic symptoms, and also the patient's stages of recovery. It demonstrates how psychiatric and psychoanalytic principles are inextricably linked together both in understanding this patient's ordeals and in her successful treatment, and suggests the clinical potential for theoretical and practical engagement between psychiatry and psychoanalysis.

Environmental Radiation Effects: A Need to Question Old Paradigms

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

Hinton, T.G.; Bedford, J.; Ulsh, B.

2003-03-27

A historical perspective is given of the current paradigm that does not explicitly protect the environment from radiation, but instead, relies on the concept that if dose limits are set to protect humans then the environment is automatically protected as well. We summarize recent international questioning of this paradigm and briefly present three different frameworks for protecting biota that are being considered by the U.S. DOE, the Canadian government and the International Commission on Radiological Protection. We emphasize that an enhanced collaboration is required between what has traditionally been separated disciplines of radiation biology and radiation ecology if we aremore » going to properly address the current environmental radiation problems. We then summarize results generated from an EMSP grant that allowed us to develop a Low Dose Irradiation Facility that specifically addresses effects of low-level, chronic irradiation on multiple levels of biological organization.« less

The importance of an ECG: back to basics.

PubMed

Haidari, Golaleh; Gray, Kirsty; Kirubakaran, Senthil

2012-11-28

A 48-year-old man presented to accident and emergency with syncope on a background history of 3 weeks of increasing shortness of breath. He collapsed at home prompting admission. He was a smoker with a 30-pack-year history. On examination, he was found to be tachypnoeic and hypoxic, with a raised JVP and quiet heard sounds. He was haemodynamically stable and a chest x-ray showed right upper-lobe collapse. His resting ECG demonstrated electrical alternans prompting urgent referral to the cardiologist for echocardiography. This revealed a large pericardial effusion with evidence of right ventricular diastolic collapse. In view of this, he underwent urgent pericardiocentesis. A subsequent CT scan showed bilateral pleural effusions and multiple lung nodules. Both pericardial and pleural fluid cytology were reported as metastatic non-small cell adenocarcinoma. The pericardial fluid continued to reaccumulate requiring a pericardial window. He was referred to the oncology team for palliative chemotherapy.

Hardware Implementation of Multiple Fan Beam Projection Technique in Optical Fibre Process Tomography

PubMed Central

Rahim, Ruzairi Abdul; Fazalul Rahiman, Mohd Hafiz; Leong, Lai Chen; Chan, Kok San; Pang, Jon Fea

2008-01-01

The main objective of this project is to implement the multiple fan beam projection technique using optical fibre sensors with the aim to achieve a high data acquisition rate. Multiple fan beam projection technique here is defined as allowing more than one emitter to transmit light at the same time using the switch-mode fan beam method. For the thirty-two pairs of sensors used, the 2-projection technique and 4-projection technique are being investigated. Sixteen sets of projections will complete one frame of light emission for the 2-projection technique while eight sets of projection will complete one frame of light emission for the 4-projection technique. In order to facilitate data acquisition process, PIC microcontroller and the sample and hold circuit are being used. This paper summarizes the hardware configuration and design for this project. PMID:27879885

Full-length genome sequence of a simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) infecting a captive agile mangabey (Cercocebus agilis) is closely related to SIVrcm infecting wild red-capped mangabeys (Cercocebus torquatus) in Cameroon.

PubMed

Ahuka-Mundeke, Steve; Liegeois, Florian; Ayouba, Ahidjo; Foupouapouognini, Yacouba; Nerrienet, Eric; Delaporte, Eric; Peeters, Martine

2010-12-01

Simian immunodeficiency viruses (SIVs) are lentiviruses that infect an extensive number of wild African primate species. Here we describe for the first time SIV infection in a captive agile mangabey (Cercocebus agilis) from Cameroon. Phylogenetic analysis of the full-length genome sequence of SIVagi-00CM312 showed that this novel virus fell into the SIVrcm lineage and was most closely related to a newly characterized SIVrcm strain (SIVrcm-02CM8081) from a wild-caught red-capped mangabey (Cercocebus torquatus) from Cameroon. In contrast to red-capped mangabeys, no 24 bp deletion in CCR5 has been observed in the agile mangabey. Further studies on wild agile mangabeys are needed to determine whether agile and red-capped mangabeys are naturally infected with the same SIV lineage, or whether this agile mangabey became infected with an SIVrcm strain in captivity. However, our study shows that agile mangabeys are susceptible to SIV infection.

Heat Transfer Effects on Laminar Velocity Profiles in Pipe Flow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Powell, Robert; Jenkins, Thomas

1998-11-01

Heat Transfer Effects on Laminar Velocity Profiles in Pipe Flow. Robert L. Powell, Thomas P. Jenkins Department of Chemical Engineering & Materials Science University of California, Davis, CA 95616 Using laser Doppler velocimetry, we have measured the axial velocity profiles for steady, pressure driven, laminar flow of water in a circular tube. The flow was established in a one inch diameter seamless glass tube. The entry length prior to the measuring section was over one hundred diameters. Reynolds numbers in the range 500-2000 were used. Under conditions where the temperature difference between the fluid and the surroundings differed by as little as 0.2C, we found significant asymmetries in the velocity profiles. This asymmetry was most pronounced in the vertical plane. Varying the temperature difference moved the velocity maximum either above or below the centerline depending upon whether the fluid was warmer or cooler than the room. These results compare well to existing calculations. Using the available theory and our experiments it is possible to identify parameter ranges where non-ideal conditions(not parabolic velocity profiles) will be found. Supported by the EMSP Program of DOE.

Differential right ventricular regional function and the effect of pulmonary hypertension: three-dimensional echo study.

PubMed

Calcutteea, Avin; Chung, Robin; Lindqvist, Per; Hodson, Margaret; Henein, Michael Y

2011-06-01

The right ventricle is multicompartmental in orientation. To assess the normal differential function of the right ventricular (RV) inflow, apical and outflow compartments, also their inter-relations and the response to pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). 45 people were studied--16 controls and 29 patients with left-sided heart failure, 15 without (group 1) and 14 with (group 2) secondary PAH, using two-dimensional (2D) and 3D echocardiography in addition to conventional Doppler techniques. There was a strong correlation between RV inlet diameter (2D) and end-diastolic volume (3D) (r=0.69, p<0.001) and between tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion and RV ejection fraction (3D) (r=0.71, p<0.001). In controls and patients, the apical ejection fraction was less than the inflow and outflow (controls: p<0.01 and p<0.01, group 1: p<0.05 and p<0.01 and group 2: p<0.05 and p<0.01, respectively). Ejection fraction was reduced in patients (inflow: p<0.001 for both, apical: p<0.01 for both and outflow tract: p<0.05 for both). In controls, the inflow compartment reached the minimum volume 20 ms before the outflow and apex but in group 2 it was simultaneous. Isovolumic contraction and relaxation times were prolonged in patients (Group 1: p=0.02 and p<0.01 and Group 2: p=0.01 for both). Peak RV ejection time correlated with the rate of outflow volume fall in controls but with the apex in group 2 (r=0.6, p<0.05). The right ventricle has distinct features for the inflow, apical and outflow tract compartments, with different extent of contribution to the overall systolic function. In PAH, the right ventricle becomes one dyssynchronous compartment, which itself may have perpetual effect on overall cardiac dysfunction.

Methodological Ambiguities of the Projective Technique: An Overview and Attempt to Clarify.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Veiel, H.; Coles, E. M.

1982-01-01

Definitions of projective tests are critiqued. A distinction is made between projective tests and projective techniques. The unique feature of the latter is its scoring process: response categories are intensionally defined and comprise infinite sets of responses. A continuity from psychometric to projective tests is argued. Statistical…

The Validity of Projective Techniques and Their Clinical and Research Contributions

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Blatt, Sidney J.

1975-01-01

Questions about the limitations and potential contributions of projective techniques in research are considered and issues which limit the contributions of diagnostic assessment and projective techniques in clinical practice are examined. A proposal is made for conceptualizing diagnostic assessment as a more integral part of the therapeutic…

Software-Enabled Project Management Techniques and Their Relationship to the Triple Constraints

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Elleh, Festus U.

2013-01-01

This study investigated the relationship between software-enabled project management techniques and the triple constraints (time, cost, and scope). There was the dearth of academic literature that focused on the relationship between software-enabled project management techniques and the triple constraints (time, cost, and scope). Based on the gap…

Projective techniques and the detection of child sexual abuse.

PubMed

Garb, H N; Wood, J M; Nezworski, M T

2000-05-01

Projective techniques (e.g., the Rorschach, Human Figure Drawings) are sometimes used to detect child sexual abuse. West recently conducted a meta-analysis on this topic, but she systematically excluded nonsignificant results. In this article, a reanalysis of her data is presented. The authors conclude that projective techniques should not be used to detect child sexual abuse. Many of the studies purportedly demonstrating validity are flawed, and none of the projective test scores have been well replicated.

The balance sheet technique. Volume I. The balance sheet analysis technique for preconstruction review of airports and highways

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

LaBelle, S.J.; Smith, A.E.; Seymour, D.A.

1977-02-01

The technique applies equally well to new or existing airports. The importance of accurate accounting of emissions, cannot be overstated. The regional oxidant modelling technique used in conjunction with a balance sheet review must be a proportional reduction technique. This type of emission balancing presumes equality of all sources in the analysis region. The technique can be applied successfully in the highway context, either in planning at the system level or looking only at projects individually. The project-by-project reviews could be used to examine each project in the same way as the airport projects are examined for their impact onmore » regional desired emission levels. The primary limitation of this technique is that it should not be used when simulation models have been used for regional oxidant air quality. In the case of highway projects, the balance sheet technique might appear to be limited; the real limitations are in the transportation planning process. That planning process is not well-suited to the needs of air quality forecasting. If the transportation forecasting techniques are insensitive to change in the variables that affect HC emissions, then no internal emission trade-offs can be identified, and the initial highway emission forecasts are themselves suspect. In general, the balance sheet technique is limited by the quality of the data used in the review. Additionally, the technique does not point out effective trade-off strategies, nor does it indicate when it might be worthwhile to ignore small amounts of excess emissions. Used in the context of regional air quality plans based on proportional reduction models, the balance sheet analysis technique shows promise as a useful method by state or regional reviewing agencies.« less

Phase 3 geophysical studies in the Wadi Bidah District, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

USGS Publications Warehouse

Flanigan, V.J.; Sadek, Hamdy; Smith, C.W.

1982-01-01

Detailed geophysical measurements have been made in the Rabathan area, Wadi Bidah district, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, at the site of diamond drill holes RAB-1, -2, and -3; these measurements suggest that the causative source for the anomalous EM (electromagnetic) and SP (self-potential) responses is probably highly conductive zones of Precambrian siliceous-carbonaceous rocks. Although many of the zones are no more than a few meters wide, they commonly contain 50 to 80 percent carbonaceous material and locally abundant pyrite. In places, several thin layers of highly concentrated carbonaceous material interlayered with chert form a multiple conductive zone that is seen in the geophysical data as complex anomaly patterns. In the geologic environment of Wadi Bidah, massive sulfide-bearing zones cannot be distinguished from siliceous-carbonaceous zones on the basis of the EM-SP responses. In North America in similar environments, complex resistivity methods used in experimental research have successfully discriminated between sulfide and carbonaceous conductors. Tests of such methods in the Wadi Bidah district are recommended. Geologic, geochemical, and geophysical data at the Jabal Mohr prospect suggest the possibility of mineralized rocks at depth over a possible strike length of 400 m.

Vertical profiles reveal impact of ozone and temperature on carbon assimilation of Betula pendula and Populus tremula.

PubMed

Mäenpää, Maarit; Riikonen, Johanna; Kontunen-Soppela, Sari; Rousi, Matti; Oksanen, Elina

2011-08-01

Rising temperature and tropospheric ozone (O(3)) concentrations are likely to affect carbon assimilation processes and thus the carbon sink strength of trees. In this study, we investigated the joint action of elevated ozone and temperature on silver birch (Betula pendula) and European aspen (Populus tremula) saplings in field conditions by combining free-air ozone exposure (1.2 × ambient) and infrared heaters (ambient +1.2 °C). At leaf level measurements, elevated ozone decreased leaf net photosynthesis (P(n)), while the response to elevated temperature was dependent on leaf position within the foliage. This indicates that leaf position has to be taken into account when leaf level data are collected and applied. The ozone effect on P(n) was partly compensated for at elevated temperature, showing an interactive effect of the treatments. In addition, the ratio of photosynthesis to stomatal conductance (P(n)/g(s) ratio) was decreased by ozone, which suggests decreasing water use efficiency. At the plant level, the increasing leaf area at elevated temperature resulted in a considerable increase in photosynthesis and growth in both species.

The Scientific Status of Projective Techniques.

PubMed

Lilienfeld, S O; Wood, J M; Garb, H N

2000-11-01

Although projective techniques continue to be widely used in clinical and forensic settings, their scientific status remains highly controversial. In this monograph, we review the current state of the literature concerning the psychometric properties (norms, reliability, validity, incremental validity, treatment utility) of three major projective instruments: Rorschach Inkblot Test, Thematic Apperception Test (TAT), and human figure drawings. We conclude that there is empirical support for the validity of a small number of indexes derived from the Rorschach and TAT. However, the substantial majority of Rorschach and TAT indexes are not empirically supported. The validity evidence for human figure drawings is even more limited. With a few exceptions, projective indexes have not consistently demonstrated incremental validity above and beyond other psychometric data. In addition, we summarize the results of a new meta-analysis intended to examine the capacity of these three instruments to detect child sexual abuse. Although some projective instruments were better than chance at detecting child sexual abuse, there were virtually no replicated findings across independent investigative teams. This meta-analysis also provides the first clear evidence of substantial file drawer effects in the projectives literature, as the effect sizes from published studies markedly exceeded those from unpublished studies. We conclude with recommendations regarding the (a) construction of projective techniques with adequate validity, (b) forensic and clinical use of projective techniques, and (c) education and training of future psychologists regarding projective techniques. © 2000 Association for Psychological Science.

A Novel Nipple Reconstruction Technique for Maintaining Nipple Projection: The Boomerang Flap

PubMed Central

Kim, Young-Eun; Hong, Ki Yong; Minn, Kyung Won

2016-01-01

Nipple-areolar complex (NAC) reconstruction is the final step in the long journey of breast reconstruction for mastectomy patients. Successful NAC reconstruction depends on the use of appropriate surgical techniques that are simple and reliable. To date, numerous techniques have been used for nipple reconstruction, including contralateral nipple sharing and various local flaps. Recently, it has been common to utilize local flaps. However, the most common nipple reconstruction problem encountered with local flaps is the loss of nipple projection; there can be approximately 50% projection loss in reconstructed nipples over long-term follow-up. Several factors might contribute to nipple projection loss, and we tried to overcome these factors by performing nipple reconstructions using a boomerang flap technique, which is a modified C–V flap that utilizes the previous mastectomy scar to maintain long-term nipple projection. PMID:27689057

A Novel Nipple Reconstruction Technique for Maintaining Nipple Projection: The Boomerang Flap.

PubMed

Kim, Young-Eun; Hong, Ki Yong; Minn, Kyung Won; Jin, Ung Sik

2016-09-01

Nipple-areolar complex (NAC) reconstruction is the final step in the long journey of breast reconstruction for mastectomy patients. Successful NAC reconstruction depends on the use of appropriate surgical techniques that are simple and reliable. To date, numerous techniques have been used for nipple reconstruction, including contralateral nipple sharing and various local flaps. Recently, it has been common to utilize local flaps. However, the most common nipple reconstruction problem encountered with local flaps is the loss of nipple projection; there can be approximately 50% projection loss in reconstructed nipples over long-term follow-up. Several factors might contribute to nipple projection loss, and we tried to overcome these factors by performing nipple reconstructions using a boomerang flap technique, which is a modified C-V flap that utilizes the previous mastectomy scar to maintain long-term nipple projection.

Simple Assessment Techniques for Soil and Water. Environmental Factors in Small Scale Development Projects. Workshops.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Coordination in Development, New York, NY.

This booklet was produced in response to the growing need for reliable environmental assessment techniques that can be applied to small-scale development projects. The suggested techniques emphasize low-technology environmental analysis. Although these techniques may lack precision, they can be extremely valuable in helping to assure the success…

Clustering cancer gene expression data by projective clustering ensemble

PubMed Central

Yu, Xianxue; Yu, Guoxian

2017-01-01

Gene expression data analysis has paramount implications for gene treatments, cancer diagnosis and other domains. Clustering is an important and promising tool to analyze gene expression data. Gene expression data is often characterized by a large amount of genes but with limited samples, thus various projective clustering techniques and ensemble techniques have been suggested to combat with these challenges. However, it is rather challenging to synergy these two kinds of techniques together to avoid the curse of dimensionality problem and to boost the performance of gene expression data clustering. In this paper, we employ a projective clustering ensemble (PCE) to integrate the advantages of projective clustering and ensemble clustering, and to avoid the dilemma of combining multiple projective clusterings. Our experimental results on publicly available cancer gene expression data show PCE can improve the quality of clustering gene expression data by at least 4.5% (on average) than other related techniques, including dimensionality reduction based single clustering and ensemble approaches. The empirical study demonstrates that, to further boost the performance of clustering cancer gene expression data, it is necessary and promising to synergy projective clustering with ensemble clustering. PCE can serve as an effective alternative technique for clustering gene expression data. PMID:28234920

3D silicon breast surface mapping via structured light profilometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vairavan, R.; Ong, N. R.; Sauli, Z.; Kirtsaeng, S.; Sakuntasathien, S.; Shahimin, M. M.; Alcain, J. B.; Lai, S. L.; Paitong, P.; Retnasamy, V.

2017-09-01

Digital fringe projection technique is one of the promising optical methods for 3D surface imaging as it demonstrates non contact and non invasive characteristics. The potential of this technique matches the requirement for human body evaluation, as it is vital for disease diagnosis and for treatment option selection. Thus, the digital fringe projection has addressed this requirement with its wide clinical related application and studies. However, the application of this technique for 3D surface mapping of the breast is very minimal. Hence, in this work, the application of digital fringe projection for 3D breast surface mapping is reported. Phase shift fringe projection technique was utilized to perform the 3D breast surface mapping. Maiden results have confirmed the feasibility of using the digital fringe projection method for 3D surface mapping of the breast and it can be extended for breast cancer detection.

A PROJECTIVE TECHNIQUE FOR THE MEASUREMENT OF PATIENT ATTITUDES ON HOSPITAL WARDS.

DTIC Science & Technology

MEDICAL PERSONNEL, TRAINING), (*PROJECTIVE TECHNIQUES, ATTITUDES(PSYCHOLOGY)), PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTS, ATTITUDES(PSYCHOLOGY), QUESTIONNAIRES, RESPONSE...BIOLOGY), RESEARCH MANAGEMENT, TEST CONSTRUCTION(PSYCHOLOGY), NURSES, MEDICAL TECHNICIANS

Projective Techniques in the Counseling Process.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Clark, Arthur J.

1995-01-01

Projective techniques have evoked a minimal degree of interest on the part of counselors due to psychometric limitations, lack of training opportunities, and the obscure qualities of the instruments. The author proposes a method to stimulate the use of projectives as an integral part of the counseling process and provides justification for the…

The GenTechnique Project: Developing an Open Environment for Learning Molecular Genetics.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Calza, R. E.; Meade, J. T.

1998-01-01

The GenTechnique project at Washington State University uses a networked learning environment for molecular genetics learning. The project is developing courseware featuring animation, hyper-link controls, and interactive self-assessment exercises focusing on fundamental concepts. The first pilot course featured a Web-based module on DNA…

Accelerating simultaneous algebraic reconstruction technique with motion compensation using CUDA-enabled GPU.

PubMed

Pang, Wai-Man; Qin, Jing; Lu, Yuqiang; Xie, Yongming; Chui, Chee-Kong; Heng, Pheng-Ann

2011-03-01

To accelerate the simultaneous algebraic reconstruction technique (SART) with motion compensation for speedy and quality computed tomography reconstruction by exploiting CUDA-enabled GPU. Two core techniques are proposed to fit SART into the CUDA architecture: (1) a ray-driven projection along with hardware trilinear interpolation, and (2) a voxel-driven back-projection that can avoid redundant computation by combining CUDA shared memory. We utilize the independence of each ray and voxel on both techniques to design CUDA kernel to represent a ray in the projection and a voxel in the back-projection respectively. Thus, significant parallelization and performance boost can be achieved. For motion compensation, we rectify each ray's direction during the projection and back-projection stages based on a known motion vector field. Extensive experiments demonstrate the proposed techniques can provide faster reconstruction without compromising image quality. The process rate is nearly 100 projections s (-1), and it is about 150 times faster than a CPU-based SART. The reconstructed image is compared against ground truth visually and quantitatively by peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) and line profiles. We further evaluate the reconstruction quality using quantitative metrics such as signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and mean-square-error (MSE). All these reveal that satisfactory results are achieved. The effects of major parameters such as ray sampling interval and relaxation parameter are also investigated by a series of experiments. A simulated dataset is used for testing the effectiveness of our motion compensation technique. The results demonstrate our reconstructed volume can eliminate undesirable artifacts like blurring. Our proposed method has potential to realize instantaneous presentation of 3D CT volume to physicians once the projection data are acquired.

Program and Project Management Framework

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Butler, Cassandra D.

2002-01-01

The primary objective of this project was to develop a framework and system architecture for integrating program and project management tools that may be applied consistently throughout Kennedy Space Center (KSC) to optimize planning, cost estimating, risk management, and project control. Project management methodology used in building interactive systems to accommodate the needs of the project managers is applied as a key component in assessing the usefulness and applicability of the framework and tools developed. Research for the project included investigation and analysis of industrial practices, KSC standards, policies, and techniques, Systems Management Office (SMO) personnel, and other documented experiences of project management experts. In addition, this project documents best practices derived from the literature as well as new or developing project management models, practices, and techniques.

Projects in an expert system class

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Whitson, George M.

1991-01-01

Many universities now teach courses in expert systems. In these courses students study the architecture of an expert system, knowledge acquisition techniques, methods of implementing systems and verification and validation techniques. A major component of any such course is a class project consisting of the design and implementation of an expert system. Discussed here are a number of techniques that we have used at the University of Texas at Tyler to develop meaningful projects that could be completed in a semester course.

Extended Piano Techniques and Teaching in Music Education Departments

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Akbulut Demirci, Sirin; Sungurtekin, Mete; Yilmaz, Nilüfer; Engür, Doruk

2015-01-01

The article is composed of the results of the study carried out within the scope of the project entitled "Extended Piano Techniques and Teaching in Music Education Departments." Within the scope of the project, 16 students taking education at Music Education Department, Uludag University, learned six pieces composed for the project via…

Implementation project : strengthening a continuous steel girder bridge in Lakeport, Texas with post-installed shear connectors : Phase 1 : bridge strengthening design and load testing.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-03-01

In Implementation Project 5-6719, a non-composite continuous steel girder bridge located in Lakeport, Texas will be strengthened using techniques developed in TxDOT Research Project 0-6719. This strengthening technique involves the use of post-instal...

A Semester-Long Project-Oriented Biochemistry Laboratory Based on "Helicobacter pylori" Urease

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Farnham, Kate R.; Dube, Danielle H.

2015-01-01

Here we present the development of a 13 week project-oriented biochemistry laboratory designed to introduce students to foundational biochemical techniques and then enable students to perform original research projects once they have mastered these techniques. In particular, we describe a semester-long laboratory that focuses on a biomedically…

Variances in the projections, resulting from CLIMEX, Boosted Regression Trees and Random Forests techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shabani, Farzin; Kumar, Lalit; Solhjouy-fard, Samaneh

2017-08-01

The aim of this study was to have a comparative investigation and evaluation of the capabilities of correlative and mechanistic modeling processes, applied to the projection of future distributions of date palm in novel environments and to establish a method of minimizing uncertainty in the projections of differing techniques. The location of this study on a global scale is in Middle Eastern Countries. We compared the mechanistic model CLIMEX (CL) with the correlative models MaxEnt (MX), Boosted Regression Trees (BRT), and Random Forests (RF) to project current and future distributions of date palm ( Phoenix dactylifera L.). The Global Climate Model (GCM), the CSIRO-Mk3.0 (CS) using the A2 emissions scenario, was selected for making projections. Both indigenous and alien distribution data of the species were utilized in the modeling process. The common areas predicted by MX, BRT, RF, and CL from the CS GCM were extracted and compared to ascertain projection uncertainty levels of each individual technique. The common areas identified by all four modeling techniques were used to produce a map indicating suitable and unsuitable areas for date palm cultivation for Middle Eastern countries, for the present and the year 2100. The four different modeling approaches predict fairly different distributions. Projections from CL were more conservative than from MX. The BRT and RF were the most conservative methods in terms of projections for the current time. The combination of the final CL and MX projections for the present and 2100 provide higher certainty concerning those areas that will become highly suitable for future date palm cultivation. According to the four models, cold, hot, and wet stress, with differences on a regional basis, appears to be the major restrictions on future date palm distribution. The results demonstrate variances in the projections, resulting from different techniques. The assessment and interpretation of model projections requires reservations, especially in correlative models such as MX, BRT, and RF. Intersections between different techniques may decrease uncertainty in future distribution projections. However, readers should not miss the fact that the uncertainties are mostly because the future GHG emission scenarios are unknowable with sufficient precision. Suggestions towards methodology and processing for improving projections are included.

Characterization of Technetium Speciation in Cast Stone

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

Um, Wooyong; Jung, Hun Bok; Wang, Guohui

2013-11-11

This report describes the results from laboratory tests performed at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) for the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) EM-31 Support Program (EMSP) subtask, “Production and Long-Term Performance of Low Temperature Waste Forms” to provide additional information on technetium (Tc) speciation characterization in the Cast Stone waste form. To support the use of Cast Stone as an alternative to vitrification for solidifying low-activity waste (LAW) and as the current baseline waste form for secondary waste streams at the Hanford Site, additional understanding of Tc speciation in Cast Stone is needed to predict the long-term Tc leachability frommore » Cast Stone and to meet the regulatory disposal-facility performance requirements for the Integrated Disposal Facility (IDF). Characterizations of the Tc speciation within the Cast Stone after leaching under various conditions provide insights into how the Tc is retained and released. The data generated by the laboratory tests described in this report provide both empirical and more scientific information to increase our understanding of Tc speciation in Cast Stone and its release mechanism under relevant leaching processes for the purpose of filling data gaps and to support the long-term risk and performance assessments of Cast Stone in the IDF at the Hanford Site.« less

Acoustic characteristics of simulated respiratory-induced vocal tremor.

PubMed

Lester, Rosemary A; Story, Brad H

2013-05-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relation of respiratory forced oscillation to the acoustic characteristics of vocal tremor. Acoustical analyses were performed to determine the characteristics of the intensity and fundamental frequency (F0) for speech samples obtained by Farinella, Hixon, Hoit, Story, and Jones (2006) using a respiratory forced oscillation paradigm with 5 healthy adult males to simulate vocal tremor involving respiratory pressure modulation. The analyzed conditions were sustained productions of /a/ with amplitudes of applied pressure of 0, 1, 2, and 4 cmH2O and a rate of 5 Hz. Forced oscillation of the respiratory system produced modulation of the intensity and F0 for all participants. Variability was observed between participants and conditions in the change in intensity and F0 per unit of pressure change, as well as in the mean intensity and F0. However, the extent of modulation of intensity and F0 generally increased as the applied pressure increased, as would be expected. These findings suggest that individuals develop idiosyncratic adaptations to pressure modulations, which are important to understanding aspects of variability in vocal tremor, and highlight the need to assess all components of the speech mechanism that may be directly or indirectly affected by tremor.

Project TEAMS (Techniques and Education for Achieving Management Skills): Business and Industrial Supervisors.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Platte Technical Community Coll., Columbus, NE.

These Project TEAMS (Techniques and Education for Achieving Management Skills) instructional materials consist of five units for use in training business and industrial supervisors. Unit 1 is designed to help managers in business or industry increase management skills in regard to leadership techniques, problem solving and decision making, and…

PROJECT SUCCESS: Marine Science. (Introductory Packet, Basic Marine Science Laboratory Techniques, Oceanographic Instruments, Individual Projects, Bibliography).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Demaray, Bryan

Five packets comprise the marine science component of an enrichment program for gifted elementary students. Considered in the introductory section are identification (pre/post measure) procedures. Remaining packets address the following topics (subtopics in parentheses): basic marine science laboratory techniques (microscope techniques and metric…

Surgical outcomes and nipple projection using the modified skate flap for nipple-areolar reconstruction in a series of 422 implant reconstructions.

PubMed

Zhong, Toni; Antony, Anu; Cordeiro, Peter

2009-05-01

Numerous techniques have been used in an attempt to achieve long-term nipple projection following nipple-areolar reconstruction (NAR). A common setback, however, is the diminution of projection over time; this phenomenon is particularly evident following implant based breast reconstruction. The purpose of this report was thus to evaluate surgical outcomes and long-term nipple projection with the use of "modified skate flap" technique in exclusively implant based postmastectomy reconstructions. A retrospective review was performed for the period between 1993 and 2007. All consecutive patients with 2-staged tissue expander/implant reconstructions followed by NAR using the modified skate flap technique performed by the senior author (P.C.) were identified in a prospectively maintained breast reconstruction database. Only patients with a minimum of 1-year follow-up were included in the study. Patients with a history of irradiation to the breast were excluded from nipple projection assessment. Clinical outcome measurements included long-term nipple projection as well as incidence of complications from the NAR procedure using the modified skate flap technique. Over the 15-year study period, 475 patients underwent 2-staged tissue expander/implant reconstruction followed by NAR using the modified skate flap technique. Of these, there was a total of 292 patients with the minimum requirement of 1-year follow-up post NAR (61% follow-up rate). The total number of reconstructed nipple areolar complexes evaluated in this series was 422 (130 bilateral and 162 unilateral NAR). Forty patients (28 unilateral and 12 bilateral NAR) who received radiation to their breasts were excluded from nipple projection assessment. At a median follow-up of 44 months (range: 12-84 months), mean nipple projection was 2.5 mm (range: 1-4 mm). Minor complications occurred in 7.2% of the patients (n = 292). Skin graft donor site dehiscence was the most common complication (3.1%) followed by partial skin graft nontake of the areola (2.1%). This report documents the largest series of NAR using a single technique in the setting of postmastectomy reconstructions. This technique can be safely performed over breast implants with acceptably low rates of complications and predictable results. Long-term nipple projection over implant reconstructions using this technique is modest and this must be forewarned to patients completing the final stage of their implant reconstruction.

Tricuspid regurgitation: contemporary management of a neglected valvular lesion.

PubMed

Irwin, Richard Bruce; Luckie, Matthew; Khattar, Rajdeep S

2010-11-01

Right-sided cardiac valvular disease has traditionally been considered less clinically important than mitral or aortic valve pathology. However, detectable tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is common and recent data suggest that significant TR can lead to functional impairment and reduced survival, particularly in patients with concomitant left-sided valvular disease. The tricuspid valve is a complex anatomical structure and advances in three dimensional echocardiography and cardiac MRI have contributed to a greater understanding of tricuspid valve pathology. These imaging techniques are invaluable in determining the aetiology and severity of TR, and provide an assessment of right ventricular function and pulmonary artery pressure. TR is more prevalent in women and those with a history of myocardial infarction and heart failure. It also occurs in about 10% of patients with rheumatic heart disease. Chronic severe TR may have a prolonged clinical course culminating in the development of fatigue and poor exercise tolerance due to a reduced cardiac output. Approximately 90% of cases of TR are secondary to either pulmonary hypertension or intrinsic right ventricular pathology and about 10% are due to primary tricuspid valve disease. Primary causes such as Ebstein's anomaly, rheumatic disease, myxomatous changes, carcinoid syndrome, endomyocardial fibrosis, and degenerative disease have characteristic morphological features readily identifiable by echocardiography. Ascertaining an accurate right ventricular systolic pressure is important in separating primary from secondary causes as significant TR with a pressure <40 mm Hg implies intrinsic valve disease. Cardiac MRI may be indicated in those with inadequate echocardiographic images and is also the gold standard for the evaluation of right ventricular function and morphology. The assessment of leaflet morphology, annular dimensions, and pulmonary artery pressure are particularly important for determining subsequent management. Along with appropriate treatment of the underlying cause of TR and pulmonary hypertension, management guidelines indicate a move towards more aggressive treatment of TR. In those undergoing left-sided valve surgery, tricuspid valve repair is universally recommended in the presence of severe coexistent TR; in those with isolated severe TR, surgery is recommended in the presence of symptoms or progressive right ventricular dilatation or dysfunction.

A numerical projection technique for large-scale eigenvalue problems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gamillscheg, Ralf; Haase, Gundolf; von der Linden, Wolfgang

2011-10-01

We present a new numerical technique to solve large-scale eigenvalue problems. It is based on the projection technique, used in strongly correlated quantum many-body systems, where first an effective approximate model of smaller complexity is constructed by projecting out high energy degrees of freedom and in turn solving the resulting model by some standard eigenvalue solver. Here we introduce a generalization of this idea, where both steps are performed numerically and which in contrast to the standard projection technique converges in principle to the exact eigenvalues. This approach is not just applicable to eigenvalue problems encountered in many-body systems but also in other areas of research that result in large-scale eigenvalue problems for matrices which have, roughly speaking, mostly a pronounced dominant diagonal part. We will present detailed studies of the approach guided by two many-body models.

Multi-GPU Acceleration of Branchless Distance Driven Projection and Backprojection for Clinical Helical CT.

PubMed

Mitra, Ayan; Politte, David G; Whiting, Bruce R; Williamson, Jeffrey F; O'Sullivan, Joseph A

2017-01-01

Model-based image reconstruction (MBIR) techniques have the potential to generate high quality images from noisy measurements and a small number of projections which can reduce the x-ray dose in patients. These MBIR techniques rely on projection and backprojection to refine an image estimate. One of the widely used projectors for these modern MBIR based technique is called branchless distance driven (DD) projection and backprojection. While this method produces superior quality images, the computational cost of iterative updates keeps it from being ubiquitous in clinical applications. In this paper, we provide several new parallelization ideas for concurrent execution of the DD projectors in multi-GPU systems using CUDA programming tools. We have introduced some novel schemes for dividing the projection data and image voxels over multiple GPUs to avoid runtime overhead and inter-device synchronization issues. We have also reduced the complexity of overlap calculation of the algorithm by eliminating the common projection plane and directly projecting the detector boundaries onto image voxel boundaries. To reduce the time required for calculating the overlap between the detector edges and image voxel boundaries, we have proposed a pre-accumulation technique to accumulate image intensities in perpendicular 2D image slabs (from a 3D image) before projection and after backprojection to ensure our DD kernels run faster in parallel GPU threads. For the implementation of our iterative MBIR technique we use a parallel multi-GPU version of the alternating minimization (AM) algorithm with penalized likelihood update. The time performance using our proposed reconstruction method with Siemens Sensation 16 patient scan data shows an average of 24 times speedup using a single TITAN X GPU and 74 times speedup using 3 TITAN X GPUs in parallel for combined projection and backprojection.

Examining the Perceived Value of Integration of Earned Value Management with Risk Management-Based Performance Measurement Baseline

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shah, Akhtar H.

2014-01-01

Many projects fail despite the use of evidence-based project management practices such as Performance Measurement Baseline (PMB), Earned Value Management (EVM) and Risk Management (RM). Although previous researchers have found that integrated project management techniques could be more valuable than the same techniques used by themselves, these…

Learning Physics through Project-Based Learning Game Techniques

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Baran, Medine; Maskan, Abdulkadir; Yasar, Seyma

2018-01-01

The aim of the present study, in which Project and game techniques are used together, is to examine the impact of project-based learning games on students' physics achievement. Participants of the study consist of 34 9th grade students (N = 34). The data were collected using achievement tests and a questionnaire. Throughout the applications, the…

Phase-stepped fringe projection by rotation about the camera's perspective center.

PubMed

Huddart, Y R; Valera, J D; Weston, N J; Featherstone, T C; Moore, A J

2011-09-12

A technique to produce phase steps in a fringe projection system for shape measurement is presented. Phase steps are produced by introducing relative rotation between the object and the fringe projection probe (comprising a projector and camera) about the camera's perspective center. Relative motion of the object in the camera image can be compensated, because it is independent of the distance of the object from the camera, whilst the phase of the projected fringes is stepped due to the motion of the projector with respect to the object. The technique was validated with a static fringe projection system by moving an object on a coordinate measuring machine (CMM). The alternative approach, of rotating a lightweight and robust CMM-mounted fringe projection probe, is discussed. An experimental accuracy of approximately 1.5% of the projected fringe pitch was achieved, limited by the standard phase-stepping algorithms used rather than by the accuracy of the phase steps produced by the new technique.

[Application of the technique of analytical structure of project for the sub-project of websites catalog of the Virtual Health Library-Nursing].

PubMed

dos, Santos Luís Augusto; Marin, Heimar de Fátima; Marques, Isaac Rosa; Cunha, Isabel Cristina Kowal Olm

2007-01-01

This work intents, in a didactic form, to explain the benefits of use of a technique of project management, named Work Breakdown Structure: a graphical tool to identify the main results to be developed in a project. The real examples are applied to a sub-project of the Virtual Library in Health in Nursing (BVS-Enfermagem) to development of the Sites Catalogs. The benefits of graphical visualization for a major agreement between professionals of different expertise are presented.

The Rorschach: projective technique or psychometric test?

PubMed

Aronow, E; Reznikoff, M; Moreland, K L

1995-04-01

Various approaches to the Rorschach Technique are described in terms of the idiographic-nomothetic axis and the perceptual-content axis. It is suggested that it is most productive to view the Rorschach as a projective tool, with perceptual scoring a secondary factor. Current efforts at objectification of the Rorschach are not seen as useful as efforts to enhance its projective qualities. Some possible ways are discussed in which the projective value of the instrument can be maximized.

Simulation of Neural Firing Dynamics: A Student Project.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kletsky, E. J.

This paper describes a student project in digital simulation techniques that is part of a graduate systems analysis course entitled Biosimulation. The students chose different simulation techniques to solve a problem related to the neuron model. (MLH)

A compressed sensing based approach on Discrete Algebraic Reconstruction Technique.

PubMed

Demircan-Tureyen, Ezgi; Kamasak, Mustafa E

2015-01-01

Discrete tomography (DT) techniques are capable of computing better results, even using less number of projections than the continuous tomography techniques. Discrete Algebraic Reconstruction Technique (DART) is an iterative reconstruction method proposed to achieve this goal by exploiting a prior knowledge on the gray levels and assuming that the scanned object is composed from a few different densities. In this paper, DART method is combined with an initial total variation minimization (TvMin) phase to ensure a better initial guess and extended with a segmentation procedure in which the threshold values are estimated from a finite set of candidates to minimize both the projection error and the total variation (TV) simultaneously. The accuracy and the robustness of the algorithm is compared with the original DART by the simulation experiments which are done under (1) limited number of projections, (2) limited view problem and (3) noisy projections conditions.

An Accurate Scatter Measurement and Correction Technique for Cone Beam Breast CT Imaging Using Scanning Sampled Measurement (SSM) Technique.

PubMed

Liu, Xinming; Shaw, Chris C; Wang, Tianpeng; Chen, Lingyun; Altunbas, Mustafa C; Kappadath, S Cheenu

2006-02-28

We developed and investigated a scanning sampled measurement (SSM) technique for scatter measurement and correction in cone beam breast CT imaging. A cylindrical polypropylene phantom (water equivalent) was mounted on a rotating table in a stationary gantry experimental cone beam breast CT imaging system. A 2-D array of lead beads, with the beads set apart about ~1 cm from each other and slightly tilted vertically, was placed between the object and x-ray source. A series of projection images were acquired as the phantom is rotated 1 degree per projection view and the lead beads array shifted vertically from one projection view to the next. A series of lead bars were also placed at the phantom edge to produce better scatter estimation across the phantom edges. Image signals in the lead beads/bars shadow were used to obtain sampled scatter measurements which were then interpolated to form an estimated scatter distribution across the projection images. The image data behind the lead bead/bar shadows were restored by interpolating image data from two adjacent projection views to form beam-block free projection images. The estimated scatter distribution was then subtracted from the corresponding restored projection image to obtain the scatter removed projection images.Our preliminary experiment has demonstrated that it is feasible to implement SSM technique for scatter estimation and correction for cone beam breast CT imaging. Scatter correction was successfully performed on all projection images using scatter distribution interpolated from SSM and restored projection image data. The resultant scatter corrected projection image data resulted in elevated CT number and largely reduced the cupping effects.

Review of the Draw a Person: Screening Procedure for Emotional Disturbance.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Trevisan, Michael S.

1996-01-01

The Draw a Person: Screening Procedures for Emotional Disturbance (DAP:SPED) is a projective technique used in the initial assessment of children suffering from emotional problems, and unlike most projective techniques, features sound psychometric development. (Author)

Tight-frame based iterative image reconstruction for spectral breast CT

PubMed Central

Zhao, Bo; Gao, Hao; Ding, Huanjun; Molloi, Sabee

2013-01-01

Purpose: To investigate tight-frame based iterative reconstruction (TFIR) technique for spectral breast computed tomography (CT) using fewer projections while achieving greater image quality. Methods: The experimental data were acquired with a fan-beam breast CT system based on a cadmium zinc telluride photon-counting detector. The images were reconstructed with a varying number of projections using the TFIR and filtered backprojection (FBP) techniques. The image quality between these two techniques was evaluated. The image's spatial resolution was evaluated using a high-resolution phantom, and the contrast to noise ratio (CNR) was evaluated using a postmortem breast sample. The postmortem breast samples were decomposed into water, lipid, and protein contents based on images reconstructed from TFIR with 204 projections and FBP with 614 projections. The volumetric fractions of water, lipid, and protein from the image-based measurements in both TFIR and FBP were compared to the chemical analysis. Results: The spatial resolution and CNR were comparable for the images reconstructed by TFIR with 204 projections and FBP with 614 projections. Both reconstruction techniques provided accurate quantification of water, lipid, and protein composition of the breast tissue when compared with data from the reference standard chemical analysis. Conclusions: Accurate breast tissue decomposition can be done with three fold fewer projection images by the TFIR technique without any reduction in image spatial resolution and CNR. This can result in a two-third reduction of the patient dose in a multislit and multislice spiral CT system in addition to the reduced scanning time in this system. PMID:23464320

Risk Management of NASA Projects

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sarper, Hueseyin

1997-01-01

Various NASA Langley Research Center and other center projects were attempted for analysis to obtain historical data comparing pre-phase A study and the final outcome for each project. This attempt, however, was abandoned once it became clear that very little documentation was available. Next, extensive literature search was conducted on the role of risk and reliability concepts in project management. Probabilistic risk assessment (PRA) techniques are being used with increasing regularity both in and outside of NASA. The value and the usage of PRA techniques were reviewed for large projects. It was found that both civilian and military branches of the space industry have traditionally refrained from using PRA, which was developed and expanded by nuclear industry. Although much has changed with the end of the cold war and the Challenger disaster, it was found that ingrained anti-PRA culture is hard to stop. Examples of skepticism against the use of risk management and assessment techniques were found both in the literature and in conversations with some technical staff. Program and project managers need to be convinced that the applicability and use of risk management and risk assessment techniques is much broader than just in the traditional safety-related areas of application. The time has come to begin to uniformly apply these techniques. The whole idea of risk-based system can maximize the 'return on investment' that the public demands. Also, it would be very useful if all project documents of NASA Langley Research Center, pre-phase A through final report, are carefully stored in a central repository preferably in electronic format.

A retrospective photometric study of 82 published reports of mastopexy and breast reduction.

PubMed

Swanson, Eric

2011-12-01

Numerous publications claim to improve breast projection and upper pole fullness after mastopexy or breast reduction. Fascial sutures and "autoaugmentation" with local flaps are advocated. However, there is no objective evidence that these efforts are effective. The author has proposed a measuring system to quantitate results. Not only is this system useful for assessing one's own results, but it may also be used to assess and compare results in published studies. Eighty-two international publications on mastopexies and breast reductions were analyzed. The studies were grouped by technique: inverted-T (superior/medial, central, and inferior pedicles), vertical, periareolar, inframammary, lateral, and "other." Measurements were made using the definitions and terminology reported separately and included breast projection, upper pole projection, lower pole level, nipple level, breast convexity, breast parenchymal ratio, and lower pole ratio. Areola shape was assessed. Breast projection and upper pole projection were not increased significantly by any of the mastopexy/reduction procedures or by the use of fascial sutures or autoaugmentation techniques. Nipple overelevation was common (41.9 percent). The incidence of the teardrop areola deformity (53.8 percent) was significantly higher (p < 0.001) in patients treated with the open technique of nipple placement. There was no significant difference in results when compared by follow-up times, resection weights, year of publication, or geographic region. Existing mastopexy/reduction techniques do not significantly increase breast projection or upper pole projection. Fascial sutures and autoaugmentation techniques are ineffective. Nipple overelevation and the teardrop areola deformity are common problems and should be avoided.

An Integrated Environment for Efficient Formal Design and Verification

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1998-01-01

The general goal of this project was to improve the practicality of formal methods by combining techniques from model checking and theorem proving. At the time the project was proposed, the model checking and theorem proving communities were applying different tools to similar problems, but there was not much cross-fertilization. This project involved a group from SRI that had substantial experience in the development and application of theorem-proving technology, and a group at Stanford that specialized in model checking techniques. Now, over five years after the proposal was submitted, there are many research groups working on combining theorem-proving and model checking techniques, and much more communication between the model checking and theorem proving research communities. This project contributed significantly to this research trend. The research work under this project covered a variety of topics: new theory and algorithms; prototype tools; verification methodology; and applications to problems in particular domains.

Watch for pitfalls of discounted cash flow techniques.

PubMed

Chow, C W; McNamee, A H

1991-04-01

Discounted cash flow (DCF) techniques can enhance the effectiveness of a healthcare organization's capital budgeting decisions. But a financial manager unaware of common misapplications of DCF techniques may make capital decisions with a hidden bias against long-term projects, an inaccurate evaluation of options, or inappropriate estimations of expected inflation and risk. Social and psychological factors also can impede effective decisions on projects already introduced.

Investigation of high-strength bolt-tightening verification techniques : tech transfer summary.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-03-01

The primary objective of this project was to explore the current state-of-practice and the state-of-the-art techniques for high-strength bolt tightening and verification in structural steel connections. This project was completed so that insight coul...

A New CT Reconstruction Technique Using Adaptive Deformation Recovery and Intensity Correction (ADRIC)

PubMed Central

Zhang, You; Ma, Jianhua; Iyengar, Puneeth; Zhong, Yuncheng; Wang, Jing

2017-01-01

Purpose Sequential same-patient CT images may involve deformation-induced and non-deformation-induced voxel intensity changes. An adaptive deformation recovery and intensity correction (ADRIC) technique was developed to improve the CT reconstruction accuracy, and to separate deformation from non-deformation-induced voxel intensity changes between sequential CT images. Materials and Methods ADRIC views the new CT volume as a deformation of a prior high-quality CT volume, but with additional non-deformation-induced voxel intensity changes. ADRIC first applies the 2D-3D deformation technique to recover the deformation field between the prior CT volume and the new, to-be-reconstructed CT volume. Using the deformation-recovered new CT volume, ADRIC further corrects the non-deformation-induced voxel intensity changes with an updated algebraic reconstruction technique (‘ART-dTV’). The resulting intensity-corrected new CT volume is subsequently fed back into the 2D-3D deformation process to further correct the residual deformation errors, which forms an iterative loop. By ADRIC, the deformation field and the non-deformation voxel intensity corrections are optimized separately and alternately to reconstruct the final CT. CT myocardial perfusion imaging scenarios were employed to evaluate the efficacy of ADRIC, using both simulated data of the extended-cardiac-torso (XCAT) digital phantom and experimentally acquired porcine data. The reconstruction accuracy of the ADRIC technique was compared to the technique using ART-dTV alone, and to the technique using 2D-3D deformation alone. The relative error metric and the universal quality index metric are calculated between the images for quantitative analysis. The relative error is defined as the square root of the sum of squared voxel intensity differences between the reconstructed volume and the ‘ground-truth’ volume, normalized by the square root of the sum of squared ‘ground-truth’ voxel intensities. In addition to the XCAT and porcine studies, a physical lung phantom measurement study was also conducted. Water-filled balloons with various shapes/volumes and concentrations of iodinated contrasts were put inside the phantom to simulate both deformations and non-deformation-induced intensity changes for ADRIC reconstruction. The ADRIC-solved deformations and intensity changes from limited-view projections were compared to those of the ‘gold-standard’ volumes reconstructed from fully-sampled projections. Results For the XCAT simulation study, the relative errors of the reconstructed CT volume by the 2D-3D deformation technique, the ART-dTV technique and the ADRIC technique were 14.64%, 19.21% and 11.90% respectively, by using 20 projections for reconstruction. Using 60 projections for reconstruction reduced the relative errors to 12.33%, 11.04% and 7.92% for the three techniques, respectively. For the porcine study, the corresponding results were 13.61%, 8.78%, 6.80% by using 20 projections; and 12.14%, 6.91% and 5.29% by using 60 projections. The ADRIC technique also demonstrated robustness to varying projection exposure levels. For the physical phantom study, the average DICE coefficient between the initial prior balloon volume and the new ‘gold-standard’ balloon volumes was 0.460. ADRIC reconstruction by 21 projections increased the average DICE coefficient to 0.954. Conclusion The ADRIC technique outperformed both the 2D-3D deformation technique and the ART-dTV technique in reconstruction accuracy. The alternately solved deformation field and non-deformation voxel intensity corrections can benefit multiple clinical applications, including tumor tracking, radiotherapy dose accumulation and treatment outcome analysis. PMID:28380247

CloudSat system engineering: techniques that point to a future success

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Basilio, R. R.; Boain, R. J.; Lam, T.

2002-01-01

Over the past three years the CloutSat Project, a NASA Earth System Science Pathfinder mission to provide from space the first global survey of cloud profiles and cloud physical properties, has implemented a successful project system engineering approach. Techniques learned through heuristic reasoning of past project events and professional experience were applied along with select methods recently touted to increase effectiveness without compromising effiency.

Biologic Collagen Cylinder with Skate Flap Technique for Nipple Reconstruction

PubMed Central

Tierney, Brian P.; Hodde, Jason P.; Changkuon, Daniela I.

2014-01-01

A surgical technique using local tissue skate flaps combined with cylinders made from a naturally derived biomaterial has been used effectively for nipple reconstruction. A retrospective review of patients who underwent nipple reconstruction using this technique was performed. Comorbidities and type of breast reconstruction were collected. Outcome evaluation included complications, surgical revisions, and nipple projection. There were 115 skate flap reconstructions performed in 83 patients between July 2009 and January 2013. Patients ranged from 32 to 73 years old. Average body mass index was 28.0. The most common comorbidities were hypertension (39.8%) and smoking (16.9%). After breast reconstruction, 68.7% of the patients underwent chemotherapy and 20.5% underwent radiation. Seventy-one patients had immediate breast reconstruction with expanders and 12 had delayed reconstruction. The only reported complications were extrusions (3.5%). Six nipples (5.2%) in 5 patients required surgical revision due to loss of projection; two patients had minor loss of projection but did not require surgical revision. Nipple projection at time of surgery ranged from 6 to 7 mm and average projection at 6 months was 3–5 mm. A surgical technique for nipple reconstruction using a skate flap with a graft material is described. Complications are infrequent and short-term projection measurements are encouraging. PMID:25114802

Biologic collagen cylinder with skate flap technique for nipple reconstruction.

PubMed

Tierney, Brian P; Hodde, Jason P; Changkuon, Daniela I

2014-01-01

A surgical technique using local tissue skate flaps combined with cylinders made from a naturally derived biomaterial has been used effectively for nipple reconstruction. A retrospective review of patients who underwent nipple reconstruction using this technique was performed. Comorbidities and type of breast reconstruction were collected. Outcome evaluation included complications, surgical revisions, and nipple projection. There were 115 skate flap reconstructions performed in 83 patients between July 2009 and January 2013. Patients ranged from 32 to 73 years old. Average body mass index was 28.0. The most common comorbidities were hypertension (39.8%) and smoking (16.9%). After breast reconstruction, 68.7% of the patients underwent chemotherapy and 20.5% underwent radiation. Seventy-one patients had immediate breast reconstruction with expanders and 12 had delayed reconstruction. The only reported complications were extrusions (3.5%). Six nipples (5.2%) in 5 patients required surgical revision due to loss of projection; two patients had minor loss of projection but did not require surgical revision. Nipple projection at time of surgery ranged from 6 to 7 mm and average projection at 6 months was 3-5 mm. A surgical technique for nipple reconstruction using a skate flap with a graft material is described. Complications are infrequent and short-term projection measurements are encouraging.

COMPARISON OF ANALYTICAL TECHNIQUES FOR MEASURING HYDROCARBON EMISSIONS FROM THE MANUFACTURE OF FIBERGLASS-REINFORCED PLASTICS

EPA Science Inventory

The paper discusses several projects to measure hydrocarbon emissions associated with the manufacture of fiberglass-reinforced plastics. The main purpose of the projects was to evaluate pollution prevention techniques to reduce emissions by altering raw materials, application equ...

High-speed technique based on a parallel projection correlation procedure for digital image correlation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zaripov, D. I.; Renfu, Li

2018-05-01

The implementation of high-efficiency digital image correlation methods based on a zero-normalized cross-correlation (ZNCC) procedure for high-speed, time-resolved measurements using a high-resolution digital camera is associated with big data processing and is often time consuming. In order to speed-up ZNCC computation, a high-speed technique based on a parallel projection correlation procedure is proposed. The proposed technique involves the use of interrogation window projections instead of its two-dimensional field of luminous intensity. This simplification allows acceleration of ZNCC computation up to 28.8 times compared to ZNCC calculated directly, depending on the size of interrogation window and region of interest. The results of three synthetic test cases, such as a one-dimensional uniform flow, a linear shear flow and a turbulent boundary-layer flow, are discussed in terms of accuracy. In the latter case, the proposed technique is implemented together with an iterative window-deformation technique. On the basis of the results of the present work, the proposed technique is recommended to be used for initial velocity field calculation, with further correction using more accurate techniques.

B.F. Skinner and the auditory inkblot: The rise and fall of the verbal summator as a projective technique.

PubMed

Rutherford, Alexandra

2003-11-01

Behaviorist B.F. Skinner is not typically associated with the fields of personality assessment or projective testing. However, early in his career Skinner developed an instrument he named the verbal summator, which, at one point, he referred to as a device for "snaring out complexes," much like an auditory analogue of the Rorschach inkblots. Skinner's interest in the projective potential of his technique was relatively short lived, but whereas he used the verbal summator to generate experimental data for his theory of verbal behavior, several other clinicians and researchers exploited this potential and adapted the verbal summator technique for both research and applied purposes. The idea of an auditory inkblot struck many as a useful innovation, and the verbal summator spawned the tautophone test, the auditory apperception test, and the Azzageddi test, among others. This article traces the origin, development, and eventual demise of the verbal summator as an auditory projective technique.

Doppler ultrasound surveillance in deep tunneling compressed-air work with Trimix breathing: bounce dive technique compared to saturation-excursion technique.

PubMed

Vellinga, T P van Rees; Sterk, W; de Boer, A G E M; van der Beek, A J; Verhoeven, A C; van Dijk, F J H

2008-01-01

The Western Scheldt Tunneling Project in The Netherlands provided a unique opportunity to evaluate two deep-diving techniques with Doppler ultrasound surveillance. Divers used the bounce diving techniques for repair and maintenance of the TBM. The tunnel boring machine jammed at its deepest depth. As a result the work time was not sufficient. The saturation diving technique was developed and permitted longer work time at great depth. Thirty-one divers were involved in this project. Twenty-three divers were examined using Doppler ultrasound. Data analysis addressed 52 exposures to Trimix at 4.6-4.8 bar gauge using the bounce technique and 354 exposures to Trimix at 4.0-6.9 bar gauge on saturation excursions. No decompression incidents occurred with either technique during the described phase of the project. Doppler ultrasound revealed that the bubble loads assessed in both techniques were generally low. We find out, that despite longer working hours, shorter decompression times and larger physical workloads, the saturation-excursion technique was associated with significant lower bubble grades than in the bounce technique using Doppler Ultrasound. We conclude that the saturation-excursion technique with Trimix is a good option for deep and long exposures in caisson work. The Doppler technique proved valuable, and it should be incorporated in future compressed-air work.

Three year evaluation of I-40 crack and seat experimental project

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1989-10-01

In 1986, Project I-40-3(31) was rehabilitated using crack and seat techniques and overlaying with a 4-inch HMAC overlay. The crack and seat technique was utilized to prevent reflection cracking in the HMAC overlay caused by joints in the existing JPC...

Development of daily temperature scenarios and their impact on paddy crop evapotranspiration in Kangsabati command area

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dhage, P. M.; Raghuwanshi, N. S.; Singh, R.; Mishra, A.

2017-05-01

Production of the principal paddy crop in West Bengal state of India is vulnerable to climate change due to limited water resources and strong dependence on surface irrigation. Therefore, assessment of impact of temperature scenarios on crop evapotranspiration (ETc) is essential for irrigation management in Kangsabati command (West Bengal). In the present study, impact of the projected temperatures on ETc was studied under climate change scenarios. Further, the performance of the bias correction and spatial downscaling (BCSD) technique was compared with the two well-known downscaling techniques, namely, multiple linear regression (MLR) and Kernel regression (KR), for the projections of daily maximum and minimum air temperatures for four stations, namely, Purulia, Bankura, Jhargram, and Kharagpur. In National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) and General Circulation Model (GCM), 14 predictors were used in MLR and KR techniques, whereas maximum and minimum surface air temperature predictor of CanESM2 GCM was used in BCSD technique. The comparison results indicated that the performance of the BCSD technique was better than the MLR and KR techniques. Therefore, the BCSD technique was used to project the future temperatures of study locations with three Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) scenarios for the period of 2006-2100. The warming tendencies of maximum and minimum temperatures over the Kangsabati command area were projected as 0.013 and 0.014 °C/year under RCP 2.6, 0.015 and 0.023 °C/year under RCP 4.5, and 0.056 and 0.061 °C/year under RCP 8.5 for 2011-2100 period, respectively. As a result, kharif (monsoon) crop evapotranspiration demand of Kangsabati reservoir command (project area) will increase by approximately 10, 8, and 18 % over historical demand under RCP 2.6, 4.5, and 8.5 scenarios, respectively.

Agile Project Management for e-Learning Developments

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Doherty, Iain

2010-01-01

We outline the project management tactics that we developed in praxis in order to manage elearning projects and show how our tactics were enhanced through implementing project management techniques from a formal project management methodology. Two key factors have contributed to our project management success. The first is maintaining a clear…

Irrigated rice area estimation using remote sensing techniques: Project's proposal and preliminary results. [Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Parada, N. D. J. (Principal Investigator); Deassuncao, G. V.; Moreira, M. A.; Novaes, R. A.

1984-01-01

The development of a methodology for annual estimates of irrigated rice crop in the State of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, using remote sensing techniques is proposed. The project involves interpretation, digital analysis, and sampling techniques of LANDSAT imagery. Results are discussed from a preliminary phase for identifying and evaluating irrigated rice crop areas in four counties of the State, for the crop year 1982/1983. This first phase involved just visual interpretation techniques of MSS/LANDSAT images.

The Status of Projective Techniques: Or, "Wishing Won't Make It Go Away."

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Piotrowski, Chris

The predicted decline in usefulness and emphasis of projective techniques was analyzed from several different perspectives including the academic community, members of the American Psychological Association (APA) Division 12, internship centers, the applied clinical setting, and private practitioners. In addition, an extensive review of empirical,…

Michigan Physicians' Conference on Elder Abuse. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sengstock, Mary C.; O'Brien, James G.

The final report describes the Michigan Physicians' Conference on Elder Abuse project. The project conference had four major content areas, including: a general introduction to the problem of elder abuse; clinical symptoms of abuse; legal issues; and referral and case management techniques. Training techniques included lectures, group discussion,…

Vis-A-Plan /visualize a plan/ management technique provides performance-time scale

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ranck, N. H.

1967-01-01

Vis-A-Plan is a bar-charting technique for representing and evaluating project activities on a performance-time basis. This rectilinear method presents the logic diagram of a project as a series of horizontal time bars. It may be used supplementary to PERT or independently.

Enrollment into a time sensitive clinical study in the critical care setting: results from computerized septic shock sniffer implementation.

PubMed

Herasevich, Vitaly; Pieper, Matthew S; Pulido, Juan; Gajic, Ognjen

2011-01-01

Recruitment of patients into time sensitive clinical trials in intensive care units (ICU) poses a significant challenge. Enrollment is limited by delayed recognition and late notification of research personnel. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the implementation of electronic screening (septic shock sniffer) regarding enrollment into a time sensitive (24 h after onset) clinical study of echocardiography in severe sepsis and septic shock. We developed and tested a near-real time computerized alert system, the septic shock sniffer, based on established severe sepsis/septic shock diagnostic criteria. A sniffer scanned patients' data in the electronic medical records and notified the research coordinator on call through an institutional paging system of potentially eligible patients. The performance of the septic shock sniffer was assessed. The septic shock sniffer performed well with a positive predictive value of 34%. Electronic screening doubled enrollment, with 68 of 4460 ICU admissions enrolled during the 9 months after implementation versus 37 of 4149 ICU admissions before sniffer implementation (p<0.05). Efficiency was limited by study coordinator availability (not available at nights or weekends). Automated electronic medical records screening improves the efficiency of enrollment and should be a routine tool for the recruitment of patients into time sensitive clinical trials in the ICU setting.

Facebook activity of residents and fellows and its impact on the doctor-patient relationship.

PubMed

Moubarak, Ghassan; Guiot, Aurélie; Benhamou, Ygal; Benhamou, Alexandra; Hariri, Sarah

2011-02-01

Facebook is an increasingly popular online social networking site. The purpose of this study was to describe the Facebook activity of residents and fellows and their opinions regarding the impact of Facebook on the doctor-patient relationship. An anonymous questionnaire was emailed to 405 residents and fellows at the Rouen University Hospital, France, in October 2009. Of the 202 participants who returned the questionnaire (50%), 147 (73%) had a Facebook profile. Among responders, 138 (99%) displayed their real name on their profile, 136 (97%) their birthdates, 128 (91%) a personal photograph, 83 (59%) their current university and 76 (55%) their current position. Default privacy settings were changed by 61% of users, more frequently if they were registered for >1 year (p=0.02). If a patient requested them as a 'friend', 152 (85%) participants would automatically decline the request, 26 (15%) would decide on an individual basis and none would automatically accept the request. Eighty-eight participants (48%) believed that the doctor-patient relationship would be altered if patients discovered that their doctor had a Facebook account, but 139 (76%) considered that it would change only if the patient had open access to their doctor's profile, independent of its content. Residents and fellows frequently use Facebook and display personal information on their profiles. Insufficient privacy protection might have an impact the doctor-patient relationship.

Organisational merger and psychiatric morbidity: a prospective study in a changing work organisation.

PubMed

Väänänen, Ari; Ahola, Kirsi; Koskinen, Aki; Pahkin, Krista; Kouvonen, Anne

2011-08-01

Prospective studies on the relationship between organisational merger and mental health have been conducted using subjective health indicators. The objective of this prospective occupational cohort study was to examine whether a negative change during an organisational merger is an independent predictive factor of psychiatric morbidity. Survey data on organisational characteristics, health and other factors were collected prior to (1996) and after the merger (2000); register data on psychiatric morbidity were collected at baseline (1/1/1994-30/9/2000) and during the follow-up (1/10/2000-31/12/2005). Participants were 6511 (77% men) industrial employees aged 21-65 years with no register-based diagnosed psychiatric events prior to the follow-up (the Still Working Study). During the follow-up, 252 participants were admitted to the hospital due to psychiatric disorders, were prescribed a psychotropic drug or attempted or committed suicide. A negative self-reported change in the work organisation during the merger was associated with increased risk of postmerger psychiatric event (HR 1.60, 95% CI 1.19 to 2.14). This association was independent of mental health-related factors measured before the merger announcement, such as demographic characteristics, occupational status, personal orientation to life, self-rated health, self-reported psychiatric morbidity or chronic disease. A negative change in work organisation during an organisational merger may elevate the risk for postmerger psychiatric morbidity.

Trampoline-related injuries in children: a preliminary biomechanical model of multiple users.

PubMed

Menelaws, Simon; Bogacz, Andrew R; Drew, Tim; Paterson, Brodie C

2011-07-01

The recent popularity of domestic trampolines has seen a corresponding increase in injured children. Most injuries happen on the trampoline mat when there are multiple users present. This study sought to examine and simulate the forces and energy transferred to a child's limbs when trampolining with another person of greater mass. The study used a computational biomechanical model. The simulation demonstrated that when two masses bounce out of phase on a trampoline, a transfer of kinetic energy from the larger mass to the smaller mass is likely to occur. It predicted that when an 80 kg adult is on a trampoline with a 25 kg child, the energy transfer is equivalent to the child falling 2.8 m onto a solid surface. Additionally, the rate of loading on the child's bones and ligaments is greater than that on the accompanying adult. Current guidelines are clear that more than one user on a trampoline at a time is a risk factor for serious injury; however, the majority of injuries happen in this scenario. The model predicted that there are high energy transfers resulting in serious fracture and ligamentous injuries to children and that this could be equated to equivalent fall heights. This provides a clear take-home message, which can be conveyed to parents to reduce the incidence of trampoline-related injuries.

Myoglobin structure and function: A multiweek biochemistry laboratory project.

PubMed

Silverstein, Todd P; Kirk, Sarah R; Meyer, Scott C; Holman, Karen L McFarlane

2015-01-01

We have developed a multiweek laboratory project in which students isolate myoglobin and characterize its structure, function, and redox state. The important laboratory techniques covered in this project include size-exclusion chromatography, electrophoresis, spectrophotometric titration, and FTIR spectroscopy. Regarding protein structure, students work with computer modeling and visualization of myoglobin and its homologues, after which they spectroscopically characterize its thermal denaturation. Students also study protein function (ligand binding equilibrium) and are instructed on topics in data analysis (calibration curves, nonlinear vs. linear regression). This upper division biochemistry laboratory project is a challenging and rewarding one that not only exposes students to a wide variety of important biochemical laboratory techniques but also ties those techniques together to work with a single readily available and easily characterized protein, myoglobin. © 2015 International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.

FME Senior Project Managers: A Juggling Act of Multiple Projects | Poster

Cancer.gov

By Peggy Pearl, Contributing Writer It was not until the 1950s that organizations in the United States began to apply project management tools and techniques to complex construction and engineering projects (http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Project_life_cycle).

Techniques for deriving tissue structure from multiple projection dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Feldmesser, Howard S. (Inventor); Charles, Jr., Harry K. (Inventor); Beck, Thomas J. (Inventor); Magee, Thomas C. (Inventor)

2004-01-01

Techniques for deriving bone properties from images generated by a dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry apparatus include receiving first image data having pixels indicating bone mineral density projected at a first angle of a plurality of projection angles. Second image data and third image data are also received. The second image data indicates bone mineral density projected at a different second angle. The third image data indicates bone mineral density projected at a third angle. The third angle is different from the first angle and the second angle. Principal moments of inertia for a bone in the subject are computed based on the first image data, the second image data and the third image data. The techniques allow high-precision, high-resolution dual-energy x-ray attenuation images to be used for computing principal moments of inertia and strength moduli of individual bones, plus risk of injury and changes in risk of injury to a patient.

Implementation of a new algorithm for Density Equalizing Map Projections (DEMP)

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

Close, E.R.; Merrill, D.W.; Holmes, H.H.

The purpose of the PAREP (Populations at Risk to Environmental Pollution) Project at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL), an ongoing Department of Energy (DOE) project since 1978, is to develop resources (data, computing techniques, and biostatistical methodology) applicable to DOE`s needs. Specifically, the PAREP project has developed techniques for statistically analyzing disease distributions in the vicinity of supposed environmental hazards. Such techniques can be applied to assess the health risks in populations residing near DOE installations, provided adequate small-area health data are available. The FY 1994 task descriptions for the PAREP project were determined in discussions at LBNL on 11/2/93.more » The FY94 PAREP Work Authorization specified three major tasks: a prototype small area study, a feasibility study for obtaining small-area data, and preservation of the PAREP data archive. The complete FY94 work plan, and the subtasks accomplished to date, were included in the Cumulative FY94 progress report.« less

Early warning and crop condition assessment research

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Boatwright, G. O.; Whitehead, V. S.

1986-01-01

The Early Warning Crop Condition Assessment Project of AgRISTARS was a multiagency and multidisciplinary effort. Its mission and objectives were centered around development and testing of remote-sensing techniques that enhance operational methodologies for global crop-condition assessments. The project developed crop stress indicators models that provide data filter and alert capabilities for monitoring global agricultural conditions. The project developed a technique for using NOAA-n satellite advanced very-high-resolution radiometer (AVHRR) data for operational crop-condition assessments. This technology was transferred to the Foreign Agricultural Service of the USDA. The project developed a U.S. Great Plains data base that contains various meteorological parameters and vegetative index numbers (VIN) derived from AVHRR satellite data. It developed cloud screening techniques and scan angle correction models for AVHRR data. It also developed technology for using remotely acquired thermal data for crop water stress indicator modeling. The project provided basic technology including spectral characteristics of soils, water, stressed and nonstressed crop and range vegetation, solar zenith angle, and atmospheric and canopy structure effects.

Cacao Intensification in Sulawesi: A Green Prosperity Model Project

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

Moriarty, K.; Elchinger, M.; Hill, G.

2014-09-01

NREL conducted eight model projects for Millennium Challenge Corporation's (MCC) Compact with Indonesia. Green Prosperity, the largest project of the Compact, seeks to address critical constraints to economic growth while supporting the Government of Indonesia's commitment to a more sustainable, less carbon-intensive future. This study evaluates techniques to improve cacao farming in Sulawesi Indonesia with an emphasis on Farmer Field Schools and Cocoa Development Centers to educate farmers and for train the trainer programs. The study estimates the economic viability of cacao farming if smallholder implement techniques to increase yield as well as social and environmental impacts of the project.

Improvements in approaches to forecasting and evaluation techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weatherhead, Elizabeth

2014-05-01

The US is embarking on an experiment to make significant and sustained improvements in weather forecasting. The effort stems from a series of community conversations that recognized the rapid advancements in observations, modeling and computing techniques in the academic, governmental and private sectors. The new directions and initial efforts will be summarized, including information on possibilities for international collaboration. Most new projects are scheduled to start in the last half of 2014. Several advancements include ensemble forecasting with global models, and new sharing of computing resources. Newly developed techniques for evaluating weather forecast models will be presented in detail. The approaches use statistical techniques that incorporate pair-wise comparisons of forecasts with observations and account for daily auto-correlation to assess appropriate uncertainty in forecast changes. Some of the new projects allow for international collaboration, particularly on the research components of the projects.

Best Practices from WisDOT Mega and ARRA Projects

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2012-03-01

Since 2004 WisDOT has developed a number of new techniques, methods, processes and procedures for management of two new : types of transportation projects: Mega projects and projects funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of ...

Best practices from WisDOT mega and ARRA projects.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2012-03-01

Since 2004 WisDOT has developed a number of new techniques, methods, processes and procedures for management of two new types of transportation projects: "Mega projects" and projects funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (...

Dot Projection Photogrammetric Technique for Shape Measurements of Aerospace Test Articles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jones, Thomas W.; Pappa, Richard S.

2002-01-01

Results from initial laboratory investigations with the dot projection photogrammetric technique are presented for three wind-tunnel test articles with a range of surface scattering and reflection properties. These test articles are a semispan model and a micro air vehicle with a latex wing that are both diffusely reflecting, and a highly polished specularly reflecting model used for high Reynolds number testing. Results using both white light and laser illumination are presented. Some of the advantages and limitations of the dot projection technique are discussed. Although a desirable final outcome of this research effort is the characterization of dynamic behavior, only static laboratory results are presented in this preliminary effort.

Introducing quality improvement methods into local public health departments: structured evaluation of a statewide pilot project.

PubMed

Riley, William; Parsons, Helen; McCoy, Kim; Burns, Debra; Anderson, Donna; Lee, Suhna; Sainfort, François

2009-10-01

To test the feasibility and assess the preliminary impact of a unique statewide quality improvement (QI) training program designed for public health departments. One hundred and ninety-five public health employees/managers from 38 local health departments throughout Minnesota were selected to participate in a newly developed QI training program and 65 of those engaged in and completed eight expert-supported QI projects over a period of 10 months from June 2007 through March 2008. As part of the Minnesota Quality Improvement Initiative, a structured distance education QI training program was designed and deployed in a first large-scale pilot. To evaluate the preliminary impact of the program, a mixed-method evaluation design was used based on four dimensions: learner reaction, knowledge, intention to apply, and preliminary outcomes. Subjective ratings of three dimensions of training quality were collected from participants after each of the scheduled learning sessions. Pre- and post-QI project surveys were administered to collect participant reactions, knowledge, future intention to apply learning, and perceived outcomes. Monthly and final QI project reports were collected to further inform success and preliminary outcomes of the projects. The participants reported (1) high levels of satisfaction with the training sessions, (2) increased perception of the relevance of the QI techniques, (3) increased perceived knowledge of all specific QI methods and techniques, (4) increased confidence in applying QI techniques on future projects, (5) increased intention to apply techniques on future QI projects, and (6) high perceived success of, and satisfaction with, the projects. Finally, preliminary outcomes data show moderate to large improvements in quality and/or efficiency for six out of eight projects. QI methods and techniques can be successfully implemented in local public health agencies on a statewide basis using the collaborative model through distance training and expert facilitation. This unique training can improve both core and support processes and lead to favorable staff reactions, increased knowledge, and improved health outcomes. The program can be further improved and deployed and holds great promise to facilitate the successful dissemination of proven QI methods throughout local public health departments.

Nationwide forestry applications program. Analysis of forest classification accuracy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Congalton, R. G.; Mead, R. A.; Oderwald, R. G.; Heinen, J. (Principal Investigator)

1981-01-01

The development of LANDSAT classification accuracy assessment techniques, and of a computerized system for assessing wildlife habitat from land cover maps are considered. A literature review on accuracy assessment techniques and an explanation for the techniques development under both projects are included along with listings of the computer programs. The presentations and discussions at the National Working Conference on LANDSAT Classification Accuracy are summarized. Two symposium papers which were published on the results of this project are appended.

Technical Note: Synchrotron-based high-energy x-ray phase sensitive microtomography for biomedical research

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

Liu, Huiqiang; Wu, Xizeng, E-mail: xwu@uabmc.edu, E-mail: tqxiao@sinap.ac.cn; Xiao, Tiqiao, E-mail: xwu@uabmc.edu, E-mail: tqxiao@sinap.ac.cn

Purpose: Propagation-based phase-contrast CT (PPCT) utilizes highly sensitive phase-contrast technology applied to x-ray microtomography. Performing phase retrieval on the acquired angular projections can enhance image contrast and enable quantitative imaging. In this work, the authors demonstrate the validity and advantages of a novel technique for high-resolution PPCT by using the generalized phase-attenuation duality (PAD) method of phase retrieval. Methods: A high-resolution angular projection data set of a fish head specimen was acquired with a monochromatic 60-keV x-ray beam. In one approach, the projection data were directly used for tomographic reconstruction. In two other approaches, the projection data were preprocessed bymore » phase retrieval based on either the linearized PAD method or the generalized PAD method. The reconstructed images from all three approaches were then compared in terms of tissue contrast-to-noise ratio and spatial resolution. Results: The authors’ experimental results demonstrated the validity of the PPCT technique based on the generalized PAD-based method. In addition, the results show that the authors’ technique is superior to the direct PPCT technique as well as the linearized PAD-based PPCT technique in terms of their relative capabilities for tissue discrimination and characterization. Conclusions: This novel PPCT technique demonstrates great potential for biomedical imaging, especially for applications that require high spatial resolution and limited radiation exposure.« less

Remote Sensing Applications with High Reliability in Changjiang Water Resource Management

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, L.; Gao, S.; Yang, A.

2018-04-01

Remote sensing technology has been widely used in many fields. But most of the applications cannot get the information with high reliability and high accuracy in large scale, especially for the applications using automatic interpretation methods. We have designed an application-oriented technology system (PIR) composed of a series of accurate interpretation techniques,which can get over 85 % correctness in Water Resource Management from the view of photogrammetry and expert knowledge. The techniques compose of the spatial positioning techniques from the view of photogrammetry, the feature interpretation techniques from the view of expert knowledge, and the rationality analysis techniques from the view of data mining. Each interpreted polygon is accurate enough to be applied to the accuracy sensitive projects, such as the Three Gorge Project and the South - to - North Water Diversion Project. In this paper, we present several remote sensing applications with high reliability in Changjiang Water Resource Management,including water pollution investigation, illegal construction inspection, and water conservation monitoring, etc.

Business and Industrial Supervisors. Project TEAMS. (Techniques and Education for Achieving Management Skills).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Platte Technical Community Coll., Columbus, NE.

The result of a project to develop short courses to help business and industrial supervisors in developing practical, up-to-date managerial skills, this instructional workbook provides information and exercises applicable to on-the-job situations. Unit I covers the following aspects of management: leadership techniques, problem solving, decision…

The Impact of the Immediate Feedback Assessment Technique on Course Evaluations

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Maurer, Trent W.; Kropp, Jerri J.

2015-01-01

This project reports the results of two studies that investigated the impact on course evaluations of using partial credit iterative responding (PCIR) with the Immediate Feedback Assessment Technique (IF-AT) forms on summative course assessments. This project also quantifies grade inflation from utilizing different PCIR schemes and documents the…

PSYOP and Persuasion: Applying Social Psychology and Becoming an Informed Citizen

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

King, Sara B.

2004-01-01

This project teaches students about persuasion techniques, especially as governments use them. Most project examples came from the work of the U.S. military's modern Psychological Operations division. Social psychology students (a) reviewed influence techniques; (b) examined posters, leaflets, and other persuasion tools used in World War II, the…

Native Advertising: Trickery or Technique? An Ethics Project and Debate

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zarzosa, Jennifer; Fischbach, Sarah

2017-01-01

Sponsored content, in-feed ads, and advertorials are innovative ways to promote brands. However, there are limited resources on how to use these advertising techniques. The Native Advertising project and debate helps students (a) gain knowledge and experience with current advertising practices and (b) engage in deliberation regarding a promotional…

Project TEAMS (Techniques and Education for Achieving Management Skills): Health Care Administrators.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Platte Technical Community Coll., Columbus, NE.

These Project TEAMS (Techniques and Education for Achieving Management Skills) instructional materials consist of five units for use in training health care administrators. Unit 1 contains materials designed to help the health care administrators increase their management skills in regard to self-awareness, time management, problem solving,…

Project TEAMS (Techniques and Education for Achieving Management Skills): Independent Business Owner/Managers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Platte Technical Community Coll., Columbus, NE.

These Project TEAMS (Techniques and Education for Achieving Managerial Skills) instructional materials consist of five units for use in training independent business owner/managers. The first unit contains materials which deal with management skills relating to personal characteristics of successful business people, knowledge of self and chosen…

Traditional Project Management and the Visual Workplace Environment to Improve Project Success

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fichera, Christopher E.

2016-01-01

A majority of large IT projects fail to meet scheduled deadlines, are over budget and do not satisfy the end user. Many projects fail in spite of utilizing traditional project management techniques. Research of project management has not identified the use of a visual workspace as a feature affecting or influencing the success of a project during…

Reducing Projection Calculation in Quantum Teleportation by Virtue of the IWOP Technique and Schmidt Decomposition of |η〉 State

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fan, Hong-Yi; Fan, Yue

2002-01-01

By virtue of the technique of integration within an ordered product of operators and the Schmidt decomposition of the entangled state |η〉, we reduce the general projection calculation in the theory of quantum teleportation to a as simple as possible form and present a general formalism for teleportating quantum states of continuous variable. The project supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China and Educational Ministry Foundation of China

Mesoscopic in vivo 3-D tracking of sparse cell populations using angular multiplexed optical projection tomography

PubMed Central

Chen, Lingling; Alexandrov, Yuriy; Kumar, Sunil; Andrews, Natalie; Dallman, Margaret J.; French, Paul M. W.; McGinty, James

2015-01-01

We describe an angular multiplexed imaging technique for 3-D in vivo cell tracking of sparse cell distributions and optical projection tomography (OPT) with superior time-lapse resolution and a significantly reduced light dose compared to volumetric time-lapse techniques. We demonstrate that using dual axis OPT, where two images are acquired simultaneously at different projection angles, can enable localization and tracking of features in 3-D with a time resolution equal to the camera frame rate. This is achieved with a 200x reduction in light dose compared to an equivalent volumetric time-lapse single camera OPT acquisition with 200 projection angles. We demonstrate the application of this technique to mapping the 3-D neutrophil migration pattern observed over ~25.5 minutes in a live 2 day post-fertilisation transgenic LysC:GFP zebrafish embryo following a tail wound. PMID:25909009

Applying projective techniques to formative research in health communication development.

PubMed

Wiehagen, Theresa; Caito, Nicole M; Thompson, Vetta Sanders; Casey, Christopher M; Weaver, Nancy L; Jupka, Keri; Kreuter, Matthew W

2007-04-01

This article describes a new approach to formative research in which projective techniques commonly used in psychological assessment were adapted for use in focus groups to help design colorectal-cancer screening materials for African American men and women. Participants (N = 20) were divided into six "design teams." Each team was given a selection of design supplies and asked to create and discuss a visual layout for screening materials. Participants chose design elements that reflected visual preferences that they felt would connect meaningfully with other African Americans. The dynamics within the design teams were different than in traditional focus groups, with participants having more control over the group's direction. Using projective techniques helped draw out unique information from participants by allowing them to "project" their opinions onto objects. This approach may be a valuable tool for health-promotion and health-communication practitioners seeking insight on the implicit values of a priority population.

Mesoscopic in vivo 3-D tracking of sparse cell populations using angular multiplexed optical projection tomography.

PubMed

Chen, Lingling; Alexandrov, Yuriy; Kumar, Sunil; Andrews, Natalie; Dallman, Margaret J; French, Paul M W; McGinty, James

2015-04-01

We describe an angular multiplexed imaging technique for 3-D in vivo cell tracking of sparse cell distributions and optical projection tomography (OPT) with superior time-lapse resolution and a significantly reduced light dose compared to volumetric time-lapse techniques. We demonstrate that using dual axis OPT, where two images are acquired simultaneously at different projection angles, can enable localization and tracking of features in 3-D with a time resolution equal to the camera frame rate. This is achieved with a 200x reduction in light dose compared to an equivalent volumetric time-lapse single camera OPT acquisition with 200 projection angles. We demonstrate the application of this technique to mapping the 3-D neutrophil migration pattern observed over ~25.5 minutes in a live 2 day post-fertilisation transgenic LysC:GFP zebrafish embryo following a tail wound.

Correlational Study of Risk Management and Information Technology Project Success

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gillespie, Seth J.

2014-01-01

Many IT projects fail despite the best efforts to keep these projects within budget, schedule, and scope. Few studies have looked at the effect of project risk management tools and techniques on project success. The primary focus of this study was to examine the extent to which utilization of project risk management processes influence project…

A guide to forestry investment analysis.

Treesearch

Dietmar W. Rose; Charles R. Blinn; Gary J. Brand

1988-01-01

It is often necessary to choose between several forestry projects. This paper provides the background needed to evaluate projects from a financial perspective. The basic steps for preparing a project analysis, suggestions for dealing with uncertainty, and techniques for monitoring a projects are presented.

Survey of Software Assurance Techniques for Highly Reliable Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nelson, Stacy

2004-01-01

This document provides a survey of software assurance techniques for highly reliable systems including a discussion of relevant safety standards for various industries in the United States and Europe, as well as examples of methods used during software development projects. It contains one section for each industry surveyed: Aerospace, Defense, Nuclear Power, Medical Devices and Transportation. Each section provides an overview of applicable standards and examples of a mission or software development project, software assurance techniques used and reliability achieved.

Neural network based visualization of collaborations in a citizen science project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Morais, Alessandra M. M.; Santos, Rafael D. C.; Raddick, M. Jordan

2014-05-01

Citizen science projects are those in which volunteers are asked to collaborate in scientific projects, usually by volunteering idle computer time for distributed data processing efforts or by actively labeling or classifying information - shapes of galaxies, whale sounds, historical records are all examples of citizen science projects in which users access a data collecting system to label or classify images and sounds. In order to be successful, a citizen science project must captivate users and keep them interested on the project and on the science behind it, increasing therefore the time the users spend collaborating with the project. Understanding behavior of citizen scientists and their interaction with the data collection systems may help increase the involvement of the users, categorize them accordingly to different parameters, facilitate their collaboration with the systems, design better user interfaces, and allow better planning and deployment of similar projects and systems. Users behavior can be actively monitored or derived from their interaction with the data collection systems. Records of the interactions can be analyzed using visualization techniques to identify patterns and outliers. In this paper we present some results on the visualization of more than 80 million interactions of almost 150 thousand users with the Galaxy Zoo I citizen science project. Visualization of the attributes extracted from their behaviors was done with a clustering neural network (the Self-Organizing Map) and a selection of icon- and pixel-based techniques. These techniques allows the visual identification of groups of similar behavior in several different ways.

Detecting Forward-Scattered Radio Signals from Atmospheric Meteors Using Low-Cost Software Defined Radio

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Snjegota, Ana; Rattenbury, Nicholas James

2017-01-01

The forward scattering of radio signals from atmospheric meteors is a known technique used to detect meteor trails. This article outlines the project that used the forward-scattering technique to observe the 2015 August, September, and October meteor showers, as well as sporadic meteors, in the Southern Hemisphere. This project can easily be…

An evaluation of sampling methods and supporting techniques for tackling lead in drinking water in Aberta Province

EPA Science Inventory

A collaborative project commenced in August 2013 with the aim of demonstrating a range of techniques that can be used in tackling the problems of lead in drinking water. The main project was completed in March 2014, with supplementary sampling exercises in mid-2014. It involved t...

How Project Management Tools Aid in Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) International Maintenance of Accreditation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cann, Cynthia W.; Brumagim, Alan L.

2008-01-01

The authors present the case of one business college's use of project management techniques as tools for accomplishing Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) International maintenance of accreditation. Using these techniques provides an efficient and effective method of organizing maintenance efforts. In addition, using…

Projecting a Stand Table Through Time

Treesearch

Quang V. Cao; V. Clark Baldwin

1999-01-01

Stand tables provide number of trees per acre for each diameter class. This paper presents a general technique to predict a future stand table, based on the current stand table and future stand summary statistics such as trees and basal area per acre, and average diameter. The stand projection technique involves (a) predicting surviving trees for each class, and (b)...

Competency model for the project managers of technical projects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Duncan, William R.

1992-05-01

Traditional job description techniques were developed to support compensation decisions for hourly wage earners in a manufacturing environment. Their resultant focus on activities performed on the job works well in this environment where the ability to perform the activity adequately is objectively verifiable by testing and observation. Although many organizations have adapted these techniques for salaried employees and service environments, the focus on activities performed has never been satisfactory. For example, stating that a project manager `prepares regular project status reports' tells us little about what to look for in a potential project manager or how to determine if a practicing project manager is ready for additional responsibilities. The concept of a `competency model' has been developed within the last decade to address this shortcoming. Competency models focus on what skills are needed to perform the tasks defined by the job description. For example, a project manager must be able to communicate well both orally and in writing in order to `prepare regular project status reports.'

A technique for estimating 4D-CBCT using prior knowledge and limited-angle projections.

PubMed

Zhang, You; Yin, Fang-Fang; Segars, W Paul; Ren, Lei

2013-12-01

To develop a technique to estimate onboard 4D-CBCT using prior information and limited-angle projections for potential 4D target verification of lung radiotherapy. Each phase of onboard 4D-CBCT is considered as a deformation from one selected phase (prior volume) of the planning 4D-CT. The deformation field maps (DFMs) are solved using a motion modeling and free-form deformation (MM-FD) technique. In the MM-FD technique, the DFMs are estimated using a motion model which is extracted from planning 4D-CT based on principal component analysis (PCA). The motion model parameters are optimized by matching the digitally reconstructed radiographs of the deformed volumes to the limited-angle onboard projections (data fidelity constraint). Afterward, the estimated DFMs are fine-tuned using a FD model based on data fidelity constraint and deformation energy minimization. The 4D digital extended-cardiac-torso phantom was used to evaluate the MM-FD technique. A lung patient with a 30 mm diameter lesion was simulated with various anatomical and respirational changes from planning 4D-CT to onboard volume, including changes of respiration amplitude, lesion size and lesion average-position, and phase shift between lesion and body respiratory cycle. The lesions were contoured in both the estimated and "ground-truth" onboard 4D-CBCT for comparison. 3D volume percentage-difference (VPD) and center-of-mass shift (COMS) were calculated to evaluate the estimation accuracy of three techniques: MM-FD, MM-only, and FD-only. Different onboard projection acquisition scenarios and projection noise levels were simulated to investigate their effects on the estimation accuracy. For all simulated patient and projection acquisition scenarios, the mean VPD (±S.D.)∕COMS (±S.D.) between lesions in prior images and "ground-truth" onboard images were 136.11% (±42.76%)∕15.5 mm (±3.9 mm). Using orthogonal-view 15°-each scan angle, the mean VPD∕COMS between the lesion in estimated and "ground-truth" onboard images for MM-only, FD-only, and MM-FD techniques were 60.10% (±27.17%)∕4.9 mm (±3.0 mm), 96.07% (±31.48%)∕12.1 mm (±3.9 mm) and 11.45% (±9.37%)∕1.3 mm (±1.3 mm), respectively. For orthogonal-view 30°-each scan angle, the corresponding results were 59.16% (±26.66%)∕4.9 mm (±3.0 mm), 75.98% (±27.21%)∕9.9 mm (±4.0 mm), and 5.22% (±2.12%)∕0.5 mm (±0.4 mm). For single-view scan angles of 3°, 30°, and 60°, the results for MM-FD technique were 32.77% (±17.87%)∕3.2 mm (±2.2 mm), 24.57% (±18.18%)∕2.9 mm (±2.0 mm), and 10.48% (±9.50%)∕1.1 mm (±1.3 mm), respectively. For projection angular-sampling-intervals of 0.6°, 1.2°, and 2.5° with the orthogonal-view 30°-each scan angle, the MM-FD technique generated similar VPD (maximum deviation 2.91%) and COMS (maximum deviation 0.6 mm), while sparser sampling yielded larger VPD∕COMS. With equal number of projections, the estimation results using scattered 360° scan angle were slightly better than those using orthogonal-view 30°-each scan angle. The estimation accuracy of MM-FD technique declined as noise level increased. The MM-FD technique substantially improves the estimation accuracy for onboard 4D-CBCT using prior planning 4D-CT and limited-angle projections, compared to the MM-only and FD-only techniques. It can potentially be used for the inter/intrafractional 4D-localization verification.

A technique for estimating 4D-CBCT using prior knowledge and limited-angle projections

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

Zhang, You; Yin, Fang-Fang; Ren, Lei

2013-12-15

Purpose: To develop a technique to estimate onboard 4D-CBCT using prior information and limited-angle projections for potential 4D target verification of lung radiotherapy.Methods: Each phase of onboard 4D-CBCT is considered as a deformation from one selected phase (prior volume) of the planning 4D-CT. The deformation field maps (DFMs) are solved using a motion modeling and free-form deformation (MM-FD) technique. In the MM-FD technique, the DFMs are estimated using a motion model which is extracted from planning 4D-CT based on principal component analysis (PCA). The motion model parameters are optimized by matching the digitally reconstructed radiographs of the deformed volumes tomore » the limited-angle onboard projections (data fidelity constraint). Afterward, the estimated DFMs are fine-tuned using a FD model based on data fidelity constraint and deformation energy minimization. The 4D digital extended-cardiac-torso phantom was used to evaluate the MM-FD technique. A lung patient with a 30 mm diameter lesion was simulated with various anatomical and respirational changes from planning 4D-CT to onboard volume, including changes of respiration amplitude, lesion size and lesion average-position, and phase shift between lesion and body respiratory cycle. The lesions were contoured in both the estimated and “ground-truth” onboard 4D-CBCT for comparison. 3D volume percentage-difference (VPD) and center-of-mass shift (COMS) were calculated to evaluate the estimation accuracy of three techniques: MM-FD, MM-only, and FD-only. Different onboard projection acquisition scenarios and projection noise levels were simulated to investigate their effects on the estimation accuracy.Results: For all simulated patient and projection acquisition scenarios, the mean VPD (±S.D.)/COMS (±S.D.) between lesions in prior images and “ground-truth” onboard images were 136.11% (±42.76%)/15.5 mm (±3.9 mm). Using orthogonal-view 15°-each scan angle, the mean VPD/COMS between the lesion in estimated and “ground-truth” onboard images for MM-only, FD-only, and MM-FD techniques were 60.10% (±27.17%)/4.9 mm (±3.0 mm), 96.07% (±31.48%)/12.1 mm (±3.9 mm) and 11.45% (±9.37%)/1.3 mm (±1.3 mm), respectively. For orthogonal-view 30°-each scan angle, the corresponding results were 59.16% (±26.66%)/4.9 mm (±3.0 mm), 75.98% (±27.21%)/9.9 mm (±4.0 mm), and 5.22% (±2.12%)/0.5 mm (±0.4 mm). For single-view scan angles of 3°, 30°, and 60°, the results for MM-FD technique were 32.77% (±17.87%)/3.2 mm (±2.2 mm), 24.57% (±18.18%)/2.9 mm (±2.0 mm), and 10.48% (±9.50%)/1.1 mm (±1.3 mm), respectively. For projection angular-sampling-intervals of 0.6°, 1.2°, and 2.5° with the orthogonal-view 30°-each scan angle, the MM-FD technique generated similar VPD (maximum deviation 2.91%) and COMS (maximum deviation 0.6 mm), while sparser sampling yielded larger VPD/COMS. With equal number of projections, the estimation results using scattered 360° scan angle were slightly better than those using orthogonal-view 30°-each scan angle. The estimation accuracy of MM-FD technique declined as noise level increased.Conclusions: The MM-FD technique substantially improves the estimation accuracy for onboard 4D-CBCT using prior planning 4D-CT and limited-angle projections, compared to the MM-only and FD-only techniques. It can potentially be used for the inter/intrafractional 4D-localization verification.« less

DOTD support for UTC project : development of rapid PCC pavement repair materials and construction techniques : research project capsule.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2014-07-01

The purpose of this project is to provide DOTD match funding for the proposed research. : This project is associated with the LTRC/Southern partnership with Research on Concrete : Applications for Sustainable Transportation (RE-CAST) Rapid Pavement C...

Assessment of Remote Sensing Technologies for Location of Hydrogen and Helium Leaks

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sellar, R. Glenn; Sohn, Yongho; Mathur, Varun; Reardon, Peter

2001-01-01

In Phase 1 of this project, a hierarchy of techniques for H2 and He leak location was developed. A total of twelve specific remote sensing techniques were evaluated; the results are summarized. A basic diffusion model was also developed to predict the concentration and distribution of H2 or He resulting from a leak. The objectives of Phase 2 of the project consisted of the following four tasks: Advance Rayleigh Doppler technique from TRL 1 to TRL 2; Plan to advance Rayleigh Doppler technique from TRL 2 to TRL 3; Advance researchers and resources for further advancement; Extend diffusion model.

Earth rotation, station coordinates and orbit determination from satellite laser ranging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Murata, Masaaki

The Project MERIT, a special program of international colaboration to Monitor Earth Rotation and Intercompare the Techniques of observation and analysis, has come to an end with great success. Its major objective was to evaluate the ultimate potential of space techniques such as VLBI and satellite laser ranging, in contrast with the other conventional techniques, in the determination of rotational dynamics of the earth. The National Aerospace Laboratory (NAL) has officially participated in the project as an associate analysis center for satellite laser technique for the period of the MERIT Main Campaign (September 1983-October 1984). In this paper, the NAL analysis center results are presented.

Analytical techniques for measuring hydrocarbon emissions from the manufacture of fiberglass-reinforced plastics. Report for June 1995--March 1997

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

Wright, R.S.; Kong, E.J.; Bahner, M.A.

The paper discusses several projects to measure hydrocarbon emissions associated with the manufacture of fiberglass-reinforced plastics. The main purpose of the projects was to evaluate pollution prevention techniques to reduce emissions by altering raw materials, application equipment, and operator technique. Analytical techniques were developed to reduce the cost of these emission measurements. Emissions from a small test mold in a temporary total enclosure (TTE) correlated with emissions from full-size production molds in a separate TTE. Gravimetric mass balance measurements inside the TTE generally agreed to within +/-30% with total hydrocarbon (THC) measurements in the TTE exhaust duct.

Application of selection techniques to electric-propulsion options on an advanced synchronous satellite

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Holcomb, L. B.; Degrey, S. P.

1973-01-01

This paper addresses the comparison of several candidate auxiliary-propulsion systems and system combinations for an advanced synchronous satellite. Economic selection techniques, evolved at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, are used as a basis for system option comparisons. Electric auxiliary-propulsion types considered include pulsed plasma and ion bombardment, with hydrazine systems used as a state-of-the-art reference. Current as well as projected electric-propulsion system performance data are used, as well as projected hydrazine system costs resulting from NASA standardization program projections.

Applied Remote Sensing Program (ARSP)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, J. D.; Foster, K. E.; Mouat, D. A.; Miller, D. A.; Conn, J. S.

1976-01-01

The activities and accomplishments of the Applied Remote Sensing Program during FY 1975-1976 are reported. The principal objective of the Applied Remote Sensing Program continues to be designed projects having specific decision-making impacts as a principal goal. These projects are carried out in cooperation and collaboration with local, state and federal agencies whose responsibilities lie with planning, zoning and environmental monitoring and/or assessment in the application of remote sensing techniques. The end result of the projects is the use by the involved agencies of remote sensing techniques in problem solving.

A Comprehensive Careers Cluster Curriculum Model. Health Occupations Cluster Curriculum Project and Health-Care Aide Curriculum Project.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bortz, Richard F.

To prepare learning materials for health careers programs at the secondary level, the developmental phase of two curriculum projects--the Health Occupations Cluster Curriculum Project and Health-Care Aide Curriculum Project--utilized a model which incorporated a key factor analysis technique. Entitled "A Comprehensive Careers Cluster Curriculum…

Best Practices from WisDOT Mega- and ARRA Projects : Brief

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2012-03-01

With the inception of the Marquette Interchange Project in 2004 Wisconsins first ever highway megaproject (over $500 million) WisDOT developed a number of new techniques, methods, processes and procedures for project management. The depart...

The environmental control and life support system advanced automation project

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dewberry, Brandon S.

1991-01-01

The objective of the ECLSS Advanced Automation project includes reduction of the risk associated with the integration of new, beneficial software techniques. Demonstrations of this software to baseline engineering and test personnel will show the benefits of these techniques. The advanced software will be integrated into ground testing and ground support facilities, familiarizing its usage by key personnel.

Projecting Agricultural Education Programs for the 21st Century Using a Modified Delphi Technique.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Iverson, Maynard J.

A modified three-step Delphi procedure was used to conduct a series of national studies of futurists regarded by their peers as top experts in agricultural education. The primary objective was to project enrollments in agricultural education programs for the 21st century. Other study objectives were to ascertain whether the Delphi technique could…

Project F. A. S. T.: Facilitating Academic Study Techniques for Handicapped Children. Volume 2. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Martin, Clessen J.

Volume 2, the appendix to the final report of Project FAST, consists of prose selections used to study the effects of text reduction techniques on the comprehension and recall of written materials among visually handicapped and hearing impaired subjects. Each selection is presented in various versions such as 10 percent subjective deleted, 20…

Toward More Effective Teaching in WCHEN Schools; The Report of a Course in New Training Techniques for Nurse Faculty.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Elliott, Jo Eleanor

Forty-five abstracts represent projects prepared by faculty personnel from Western Council on Higher Education for Nursing (WCHEN) member schools who were participants in a short-term course, "Improving Instruction Through the Use of Selected Tools and Techniques." Programed instruction projects involve various clinical areas and deal with such…

Interest and limitations of projective techniques in the assessment of personality disorders.

PubMed

Petot, J M

2000-06-01

Assessing personality disorders (PD) remains a difficult task because of persistent problems linked to concurrent validity of existing instruments, which are all structured interviews or self-report inventories. It has been advocated that indirect methods, projective techniques in particular, can strengthen PD assessment methods. The thematic apperception test (TAT) may be a significant adjuvant method of PD assessment.

High-Throughput Mapping of Single-Neuron Projections by Sequencing of Barcoded RNA.

PubMed

Kebschull, Justus M; Garcia da Silva, Pedro; Reid, Ashlan P; Peikon, Ian D; Albeanu, Dinu F; Zador, Anthony M

2016-09-07

Neurons transmit information to distant brain regions via long-range axonal projections. In the mouse, area-to-area connections have only been systematically mapped using bulk labeling techniques, which obscure the diverse projections of intermingled single neurons. Here we describe MAPseq (Multiplexed Analysis of Projections by Sequencing), a technique that can map the projections of thousands or even millions of single neurons by labeling large sets of neurons with random RNA sequences ("barcodes"). Axons are filled with barcode mRNA, each putative projection area is dissected, and the barcode mRNA is extracted and sequenced. Applying MAPseq to the locus coeruleus (LC), we find that individual LC neurons have preferred cortical targets. By recasting neuroanatomy, which is traditionally viewed as a problem of microscopy, as a problem of sequencing, MAPseq harnesses advances in sequencing technology to permit high-throughput interrogation of brain circuits. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Graduate Student Project: Operations Management Product Plan

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fish, Lynn

2007-01-01

An operations management product project is an effective instructional technique that fills a void in current operations management literature in product planning. More than 94.1% of 286 graduates favored the project as a learning tool, and results demonstrate the significant impact the project had in predicting student performance. The author…

Justifying Projective/Personality Assessment in School Psychology: A Response to Batsche and Peterson.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Knoff, Howard M.

1983-01-01

This response to Batsche and Peterson's article discusses the theoretical, empirical, and pragmatic merits of projective assessment when performed in the context of a comprehensive personality assessment battery. The projective measures should not be considered in isolation. The author concludes projective techniques are not incompatible with…

Project Administration Techniques for Successful Classroom Collaborative Writing.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kryder, LeeAnne Giannone

1991-01-01

Focuses on the collaborative writing done for a large report or proposal over a period of several weeks or months in a business writing course. Discusses short-term writing projects and nonwriting tasks for project administration, meeting management, student/instructor conference, project planning and time estimates, and oral presentations. (PRA)

WE-AB-303-01: FEATURED PRESENTATION: A Dual-Detector Phase-Matched Digital Tomosynthesis (DTS) Imaging Scheme Using Aggregated KV and MV Projections for Intra-Treatment Lung Tumor Tracking

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

Zhang, Y; Yin, F; Mao, R

2015-06-15

Purpose: To develop a dual-detector phase-matched DTS technique for continuous and fast intra-treatment lung tumor localization. Methods: Tumor localization accuracy of limited-angle DTS imaging is affected by low inter-slice resolution. The dual-detector DTS technique aims to overcome this limitation through combining orthogonally acquired beam’s eye view MV projections and kV projections for intra-treatment DTS reconstruction and localization. To aggregate the kV and MV projections for reconstruction, the MV projections were linearly converted to synthesize corresponding kV projections. To further address the lung motion induced localization errors, this technique uses respiratory phase-matching to match the motion information between on-board DTS andmore » reference DTS to offset the adverse effects of motion blurriness in tumor localization.A study was performed using the CIRS008A lung phantom to simulate different on-board target variation scenarios for localization. The intra-treatment kV and MV acquisition was achieved through the Varian TrueBeam Developer Mode. Four methods were compared for their localization accuracy: 1. the proposed dual-detector phase-matched DTS technique; 2. the single-detector phase-matched DTS technique; 3. the dual-detector 3D-DTS technique without phase-matching; and 4. the single-detector 3D-DTS technique without phase-matching. Results: For scan angles of 2.5°, 5°, 10°, 20° and 30°, the dual-detector phase-matched DTS technique localized the tumor with average(±standard deviations) errors of 0.4±0.3 mm, 0.5±0.3 mm, 0.6±0.2 mm, 0.9±0.4 mm and 1.0±0.3 mm, respectively. The corresponding values of single-detector phase-matched DTS technique were 4.0±2.5 mm, 2.7±1.1 mm, 1.7±1.2 mm, 2.2±0.9 mm and 1.5±0.8 mm, respectively. The values of dual-detector 3D-DTS technique were 6.2±1.7 mm, 6.3±1.2 mm, 5.3±1.3 mm, 2.0±2.2 mm and 1.5±0.5 mm, respectively. And the values of single-detector 3D-DTS technique were 9.7±8.9 mm, 9.8±8.8 mm, 10.0±9.7 mm, 3.9±2.7 mm and 2.2±1.3 mm, respectively. Conclusion: The dual-detector phase-matched DTS technique substantially improves the tumor localization accuracy, which can be applied to real-time intra-treatment lung tumor localization. The research was funded by the National Institutes of Health Grant No. R01-CA184173 and a grant from Varian Medical Systems.« less

Three-dimensional displacement measurement by fringe projection and speckle photography

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

Barrientos, B.; Garcia-Marquez, J.; Cerca, M.

2008-04-15

3D displacement fields are measured by the combination of two optical methods, fringe projection and speckle photography. The use of only one camera recording the necessary information implies that no calibration procedures are necessary as is the case in techniques based on stereoscopy. The out-of-plane displacement is measured by fringe projection whereas speckle photography yields the 2-D in-plane component. To show the feasibility of the technique, we analyze a detailed morphological spatio-temporal evolution of a model of the Earth's crust while subjected to compression forces. The results show that the combination of fringe projection and speckle photography is well suitedmore » for this type of studies.« less

Measurement technique for in situ characterizing aberrations of projection optics in lithographic tools.

PubMed

Wang, Fan; Wang, Xiangzhao; Ma, Mingying

2006-08-20

As the feature size decreases, degradation of image quality caused by wavefront aberrations of projection optics in lithographic tools has become a serious problem in the low-k1 process. We propose a novel measurement technique for in situ characterizing aberrations of projection optics in lithographic tools. Considering the impact of the partial coherence illumination, we introduce a novel algorithm that accurately describes the pattern displacement and focus shift induced by aberrations. Employing the algorithm, the measurement condition is extended from three-beam interference to two-, three-, and hybrid-beam interferences. The experiments are performed to measure the aberrations of projection optics in an ArF scanner.

Measuring radiation damage dynamics by pulsed ion beam irradiation: 2016 project annual report

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

Kucheyev, Sergei O.

2017-01-04

The major goal of this project is to develop and demonstrate a novel experimental approach to access the dynamic regime of radiation damage formation in nuclear materials. In particular, the project exploits a pulsed-ion-beam method in order to gain insight into defect interaction dynamics by measuring effective defect interaction time constants and defect diffusion lengths. For Year 3, this project had the following two major milestones: (i) the demonstration of the measurement of thermally activated defect-interaction processes by pulsed ion beam techniques and (ii) the demonstration of alternative characterization techniques to study defect dynamics. As we describe below, both ofmore » these milestones have been met.« less

Augmented reality-guided neurosurgery: accuracy and intraoperative application of an image projection technique.

PubMed

Besharati Tabrizi, Leila; Mahvash, Mehran

2015-07-01

An augmented reality system has been developed for image-guided neurosurgery to project images with regions of interest onto the patient's head, skull, or brain surface in real time. The aim of this study was to evaluate system accuracy and to perform the first intraoperative application. Images of segmented brain tumors in different localizations and sizes were created in 10 cases and were projected to a head phantom using a video projector. Registration was performed using 5 fiducial markers. After each registration, the distance of the 5 fiducial markers from the visualized tumor borders was measured on the virtual image and on the phantom. The difference was considered a projection error. Moreover, the image projection technique was intraoperatively applied in 5 patients and was compared with a standard navigation system. Augmented reality visualization of the tumors succeeded in all cases. The mean time for registration was 3.8 minutes (range 2-7 minutes). The mean projection error was 0.8 ± 0.25 mm. There were no significant differences in accuracy according to the localization and size of the tumor. Clinical feasibility and reliability of the augmented reality system could be proved intraoperatively in 5 patients (projection error 1.2 ± 0.54 mm). The augmented reality system is accurate and reliable for the intraoperative projection of images to the head, skull, and brain surface. The ergonomic advantage of this technique improves the planning of neurosurgical procedures and enables the surgeon to use direct visualization for image-guided neurosurgery.

Evaluation of techniques for handling missing cost-to-charge ratios in the USA Nationwide Inpatient Sample: a simulation study.

PubMed

Yu, Tzy-Chyi; Zhou, Huanxue

2015-09-01

Evaluate performance of techniques used to handle missing cost-to-charge ratio (CCR) data in the USA Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project's Nationwide Inpatient Sample. Four techniques to replace missing CCR data were evaluated: deleting discharges with missing CCRs (complete case analysis), reweighting as recommended by Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project, reweighting by adjustment cells and hot deck imputation by adjustment cells. Bias and root mean squared error of these techniques on hospital cost were evaluated in five disease cohorts. Similar mean cost estimates would be obtained with any of the four techniques when the percentage of missing data is low (<10%). When total cost is the outcome of interest, a reweighting technique to avoid underestimation from dropping observations with missing data should be adopted.

Leveraging Experiential Learning Techniques for Transfer

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Furman, Nate; Sibthorp, Jim

2013-01-01

Experiential learning techniques can be helpful in fostering learning transfer. Techniques such as project-based learning, reflective learning, and cooperative learning provide authentic platforms for developing rich learning experiences. In contrast to more didactic forms of instruction, experiential learning techniques foster a depth of learning…

Best practices from WisDOT mega and ARRA projects : best practice catalog.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2012-03-01

Since 2004, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) has developed a number of new techniques, methods, processes and procedures for management of two types of transportation projects: megaprojects and projects funded through the American ...

Determinants of project success

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Murphy, D. C.; Baker, B. N.; Fisher, D.

1974-01-01

The interactions of numerous project characteristics, with particular reference to project performance, were studied. Determinants of success are identified along with the accompanying implications for client organization, parent organization, project organization, and future research. Variables are selected which are found to have the greatest impact on project outcome, and the methodology and analytic techniques to be employed in identification of those variables are discussed.

Adapting Project Management Practices to Research-Based Projects

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bahr, P.; Baker, T.; Corbin, B.; Keith, L.; Loerch, L.; Mullenax, C.; Myers, R.; Rhodes, B.; Skytland, N.

2007-01-01

From dealing with the inherent uncertainties in outcomes of scientific research to the lack of applicability of current NASA Procedural Requirements guidance documentation, research-based projects present challenges that require unique application of classical project management techniques. If additionally challenged by the creation of a new program transitioning from basic to applied research in a technical environment often unfamiliar with the cost and schedule constraints addressed by project management practices, such projects can find themselves struggling throughout their life cycles. Finally, supplying deliverables to a prime vehicle customer, also in the formative stage, adds further complexity to the development and management of research-based projects. The Biomedical Research and Countermeasures Projects Branch at NASA Johnson Space Center encompasses several diverse applied research-based or research-enabling projects within the newly-formed Human Research Program. This presentation will provide a brief overview of the organizational structure and environment in which these projects operate and how the projects coordinate to address and manage technical requirements. We will identify several of the challenges (cost, technical, schedule, and personnel) encountered by projects across the Branch, present case reports of actions taken and techniques implemented to deal with these challenges, and then close the session with an open forum discussion of remaining challenges and potential mitigations.

From Brand Image Research to Teaching Assessment: Using a Projective Technique Borrowed from Marketing Research to Aid an Understanding of Teaching Effectiveness

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Boddy, Clive Roland

2004-01-01

This paper describes how a simple qualitative market research technique using a projective device called a bubble drawing can be used as a useful feedback device to gain an understanding of students' views of the teaching effectiveness of a market research lecture. Comparisons are made with feedback gained from teaching observations and insights…

Can one gain spectral information plus time by 3D HMBC via back-projection?

PubMed

Findeisen, Matthias; Bermel, Wolfgang; Berger, Stefan

2006-04-01

The 3D HMBC technique is compared with a time saving technique in which the projection-reconstruction (PR) principle is applied. Using strychnine as an example we demonstrate that after recording essentially three planes of the 3D cuboid a comparable result can be obtained, if certain constraints of the data dimensions are obeyed. 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Operational forest management planning methods: proceedings, meeting of steering systems project group, International Union of Forestry Research Organizations, Bucharest, Romania, June 18-24, 1978

Treesearch

Daniel Navon

1978-01-01

These 14 papers were submitted to a conference of Project Group P4.07 Division IV, International Union of Forestry Research Organizations. Topics discussed included the uses of simulations, analytical techniques, and mathematical programming techniques in land management planning, reforestation programs, intensive forestry, timber management and production, tree growth...

You Can Lead Students to Water, but You Can't Make Them Think: An Assessment of Student Engagement and Learning through Student-Centered Teaching

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bradford, Jennifer; Mowder, Denise; Bohte, Joy

2016-01-01

The current project conducted an assessment of specific, directed use of student-centered teaching techniques in a criminal justice and criminology research methods and statistics class. The project sought to ascertain to what extent these techniques improved or impacted student learning and engagement in this traditionally difficult course.…

Microearthquake Studies at the Salton Sea Geothermal Field

DOE Data Explorer

Templeton, Dennise

2013-10-01

The objective of this project is to detect and locate microearthquakes to aid in the characterization of reservoir fracture networks. Accurate identification and mapping of the large numbers of microearthquakes induced in EGS is one technique that provides diagnostic information when determining the location, orientation and length of underground crack systems for use in reservoir development and management applications. Conventional earthquake location techniques often are employed to locate microearthquakes. However, these techniques require labor-intensive picking of individual seismic phase onsets across a network of sensors. For this project we adapt the Matched Field Processing (MFP) technique to the elastic propagation problem in geothermal reservoirs to identify more and smaller events than traditional methods alone.

Intermittent sizing on carbon fiber for composite application

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

Norris, Jr, Robert E.; Paulauskas, Felix L.; Ozcan, Soydan

Intermittent sizing is a technique designed to improve the bonding of carbon fiber to a resin when manufacturing composite parts. The purpose of this technique is to improve Sheet Molding Composites (SMC) made of non-continuous carbon fibers while using regular material. At the end of the project, tests showed that improved mechanical properties have been achieved using this technique compared to conventional process. Mechanical properties have been improved by 110% for the peak tensile stress and by 60% for the modulus at the laboratory scale. In this project, Continental Structural Plastics and ORNL have worked to demonstrate the scalability andmore » viability of commercialization of this technique.« less

Research-Informed Curriculum Design for a Master's-Level Program in Project Management

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bentley, Yongmei; Richardson, Diane; Duan, Yanqing; Philpott, Elly; Ong, Vincent; Owen, David

2013-01-01

This article reports on the application of Research-Informed Curriculum Design (RICD) for the development and implementation of an MSc Program in Project Management. The research focused on contemporary issues in project management and provided an analysis of project management approaches, tools, and techniques currently used in organizations.…

Human Rehabilitation Techniques. Project Papers. Volume IV, Part B.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dudek, R. A.; And Others

Volume IV, Part B of a six-volume final report (which covers the findings of a research project on policy and technology related to rehabilitation of disabled individuals) presents a continuation of papers (Part A) giving an overview of project methodology, much of the data used in projecting consequences and policymaking impacts in project…

The Application of Project Management Techniques to College and University Admissions Activities.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bickers, Doyle

1993-01-01

The process of project management is illustrated through application to one activity, development of a new brochure, within the admissions program of a fictional college. The project life cycle is described, and a work responsibility schedule, project completion schedule, and critical path chart are used as planning and implementation tools. (MSE)

Evaluation of Title I ESEA Projects: 1975-76.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Philadelphia School District, PA. Office of Research and Evaluation.

Evaluation services to be provided during 1975-76 to projects funded under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act Title I are listed in this annual booklet. For each project, the following information is provided: goals to be assessed, evaluation techniques (design), and evaluation milestones. Regular term and summer term projects reported on…

The Utilization of Project Management in the Pharmaceutical Industry.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Krusko, Diane; Cangemi, Robert R.

1987-01-01

A survey of 99 pharmaceutical companies concerning their organization and use of project management techniques for research and development found that the industry is using project management increasingly in a variety of ways for better business planning and operations. (MSE)

Medicine and the Holocaust: a visit to the Nazi death camps as a means of teaching medical ethics in the Israel Defense Forces Medical Corps.

PubMed

Oberman, Anthony S; Brosh-Nissimov, Tal; Ash, Nachman

2010-12-01

A novel method of teaching military medical ethics, medical ethics and military ethics in the Israel Defense Force (IDF) Medical Corps, essential topics for all military medical personnel, is discussed. Very little time is devoted to medical ethics in medical curricula, and even less to military medical ethics. Ninety-five per cent of American students in eight medical schools had less than 1 h of military medical ethics teaching and few knew the basic tenets of the Geneva Convention. Medical ethics differs from military medical ethics: the former deals with the relationship between medical professional and patient, while in the latter military physicians have to balance between military necessity and their traditional priorities to their patients. The underlying principles, however, are the same in both: the right to life, autonomy, dignity and utility. The IDF maintains high moral and ethical standards. This stems from the preciousness of human life in Jewish history, tradition and religious law. Emphasis is placed on these qualities within the Israeli education system; the IDF teaches and enforces moral and ethical standards in all of its training programmes and units. One such programme is 'Witnesses in Uniform' in which the IDF takes groups of officers to visit Holocaust memorial sites and Nazi death camps. During these visits daily discussions touch on intricate medical and military ethical issues, and contemporary ethical dilemmas relevant to IDF officers during active missions.

Validation of the Ottawa Knee Rule in Iran: a prospective study.

PubMed

Jalili, Mohammad; Gharebaghi, Hadi

2010-11-01

This study was designed to determine the accuracy of the Ottawa Knee Rule (OKR) when applied to patients with acute knee injury in the Iranian population of the Imam Hospital Emergency Department (ED) at. This prospective cohort validation study included a convenience sample of all patients with a blunt knee injury sustained in the preceding 7 days presenting to the ED of a tertiary care teaching hospital during the study period. Patients were assessed for the five variables comprising the OKR, and a standardised data form was completed for each patient. Standard knee radiographs were ordered on all patients irrespective of the determination of the rule. The rules were interpreted by the primary investigator on the basis of the data sheet and the final orthopaedist radiograph reading. Outcome measures of this study were: sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of the OKR. A total of 283 patients were enrolled in the study. 22 fractures (7.77%) were detected. The decision rule had a sensitivity of 0.95 (95% CI 0.77 to 0.99), and a specificity of 0.44 (95% CI 0.37 to 0.50). The potential reduction in use of radiography was estimated to be 41%. The OKR missed only one fracture. Prospective validation has shown that the OKR is a highly sensitive tool for detecting knee fractures and has the potential to reduce the number of radiographs in patients with acute knee injuries.

Automated concept-level information extraction to reduce the need for custom software and rules development.

PubMed

D'Avolio, Leonard W; Nguyen, Thien M; Goryachev, Sergey; Fiore, Louis D

2011-01-01

Despite at least 40 years of promising empirical performance, very few clinical natural language processing (NLP) or information extraction systems currently contribute to medical science or care. The authors address this gap by reducing the need for custom software and rules development with a graphical user interface-driven, highly generalizable approach to concept-level retrieval. A 'learn by example' approach combines features derived from open-source NLP pipelines with open-source machine learning classifiers to automatically and iteratively evaluate top-performing configurations. The Fourth i2b2/VA Shared Task Challenge's concept extraction task provided the data sets and metrics used to evaluate performance. Top F-measure scores for each of the tasks were medical problems (0.83), treatments (0.82), and tests (0.83). Recall lagged precision in all experiments. Precision was near or above 0.90 in all tasks. Discussion With no customization for the tasks and less than 5 min of end-user time to configure and launch each experiment, the average F-measure was 0.83, one point behind the mean F-measure of the 22 entrants in the competition. Strong precision scores indicate the potential of applying the approach for more specific clinical information extraction tasks. There was not one best configuration, supporting an iterative approach to model creation. Acceptable levels of performance can be achieved using fully automated and generalizable approaches to concept-level information extraction. The described implementation and related documentation is available for download.

Is there a right not to know one's sex? The ethics of 'gender verification' in women's sports competition.

PubMed

Wiesemann, Claudia

2011-04-01

The paper discusses the current medical practice of 'gender verification' in sports from an ethical point of view. It takes the recent public discussion about 800 m runner Caster Semenya as a starting point. At the World Championships in Athletics 2009 in Berlin, Germany, Semenya was challenged by competitors as being a so called 'sex impostor'. A medical examination to verify her sex ensued. The author analyses whether athletes like Semenya could claim a right not to know that is generally acknowledged in human genetics and enforced by international and national genetic privacy laws. The relevance of this right for genetic diagnosis in sports is discussed. To this end, the interests of the athlete concerned and of third parties are balanced according to the expected benefits and harms.Harm is documented in a number of cases and includes unjustified disqualification, severe sex and gender identity crisis, demeaning reactions, social isolation, depression and suicide. Benefits are dubious as most cases of intersex are considered irrelevant for sports competition. It has to be concluded that the benefits to be gained from 'gender verification' in sports via genetic testing do not outweigh the grave individual disadvantages. The current practice of athletic associations to largely ignore the right of competitors not to know does not comply with prevailing ethical provisions on the protection of sensitive personal data. Therefore, genetic 'gender verification' in sports should be abolished.

Email triage is an effective, efficient and safe way of managing new referrals to a neurologist.

PubMed

Patterson, Victor; Humphreys, Jenny; Henderson, Mark; Crealey, Grainne

2010-10-01

Patients referred to secondary care in the UK often wait many months to be seen, and the UK government has announced various initiatives to address this issue. Since 2002, we have developed an email referral system which allows some neurological referrals to be managed by advice and investigations rather than by a conventional hospital clinic appointment. This system has previously been shown to reduce clinic attendances and to be acceptable to patients and their general practitioners (GPs). To analyse the effects of an email triage system on waiting times, cost of care and safety over 5 years. Referral numbers and waiting times for clinics using this system were analysed. Cost was determined by comparing detailed costs with those of conventional care. Safety was analysed by examining the GP records of all patients referred from a single practice who had been dealt with by advice or investigation, noting deaths, re-referrals and changes in diagnosis. Waiting times fell from 72 to 4 weeks, despite an increase in referrals. The cost per patient of email referral was about £100, compared with £152 for conventional care, a 35% reduction. Safety data on 120 individuals showed a minor change in diagnosis in three. This system is safe, effective (in reducing waiting times) and efficient. It enables neurologists to focus on patients with significant neurological disease and, if applied more widely, could reduce costs and waiting times for neurology services in the UK.

Research and development of improved geothermal well logging techniques, tools and components (current projects, goals and status). Final report

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

Lamers, M.D.

One of the key needs in the advancement of geothermal energy is availability of adequate subsurface measurements to aid the reservoir engineer in the development and operation of geothermal wells. Some current projects being sponsored by the U. S. Department of Energy's Division of Geothermal Energy pertaining to the development of improved well logging techniques, tools and components are described. An attempt is made to show how these projects contribute to improvement of geothermal logging technology in forming key elements of the overall program goals.

Estimation of Phase in Fringe Projection Technique Using High-order Instantaneous Moments Based Method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gorthi, Sai Siva; Rajshekhar, G.; Rastogi, Pramod

2010-04-01

For three-dimensional (3D) shape measurement using fringe projection techniques, the information about the 3D shape of an object is encoded in the phase of a recorded fringe pattern. The paper proposes a high-order instantaneous moments based method to estimate phase from a single fringe pattern in fringe projection. The proposed method works by approximating the phase as a piece-wise polynomial and subsequently determining the polynomial coefficients using high-order instantaneous moments to construct the polynomial phase. Simulation results are presented to show the method's potential.

Enhancing breast projection in autologous reconstruction using the St Andrew's coning technique and 3D volumetric analysis.

PubMed

Chae, Michael P; Rozen, Warren Matthew; Patel, Nakul Gamanlal; Hunter-Smith, David J; Ramakrishnan, Venkat

2017-12-01

An increasing number of women undergo mastectomy for breast cancer and post-mastectomy autologous breast reconstruction has been shown to significantly improve the psychosexual wellbeing of the patients. A goal of treatment is to achieve symmetry and projection to match the native breast, and/or the contralateral breast in the case of a unilateral reconstruction. Autologous reconstruction, particularly with the deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap, is particularly advantageous as it can be manipulated to mimic the shape and turgor of the native breast. However, very few techniques of shaping the breast conus when insetting the DIEP flap to enhance aesthetic outcome have been reported to date. With the aide of three-dimension (3D) photography and 3D-printed mirrored image of the contralateral breast as a guide intraoperatively, we describe our St Andrew's coning technique to create a personalized flap projection. We report a prospective case series of 3 delayed unilateral breast reconstructions where symmetrization procedure to the contralateral breast was not indicated. Using a commercial 3D scanner (VECTRA XR, Canfield Scientific), the breast region was imaged. The mirrored image was 3D-printed in-house using a desktop 3D printer. In all cases, projection of the breast mound was able to be safely achieved, with a demonstrated central volume (or 'cone') able to be highlighted on imaging and a 3D printed breast. A 3D print of the contralateral breast was able to be used intraoperatively to guide the operative approach. The St Andrew's coning technique is a useful aesthetic maneuver for achieving breast projection during DIEP flap breast reconstruction, with 3D imaging techniques able to assist in perioperative assessment of breast volume.

Robust breathing signal extraction from cone beam CT projections based on adaptive and global optimization techniques

PubMed Central

Chao, Ming; Wei, Jie; Li, Tianfang; Yuan, Yading; Rosenzweig, Kenneth E; Lo, Yeh-Chi

2017-01-01

We present a study of extracting respiratory signals from cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) projections within the framework of the Amsterdam Shroud (AS) technique. Acquired prior to the radiotherapy treatment, CBCT projections were preprocessed for contrast enhancement by converting the original intensity images to attenuation images with which the AS image was created. An adaptive robust z-normalization filtering was applied to further augment the weak oscillating structures locally. From the enhanced AS image, the respiratory signal was extracted using a two-step optimization approach to effectively reveal the large-scale regularity of the breathing signals. CBCT projection images from five patients acquired with the Varian Onboard Imager on the Clinac iX System Linear Accelerator (Varian Medical Systems, Palo Alto, CA) were employed to assess the proposed technique. Stable breathing signals can be reliably extracted using the proposed algorithm. Reference waveforms obtained using an air bellows belt (Philips Medical Systems, Cleveland, OH) were exported and compared to those with the AS based signals. The average errors for the enrolled patients between the estimated breath per minute (bpm) and the reference waveform bpm can be as low as −0.07 with the standard deviation 1.58. The new algorithm outperformed the original AS technique for all patients by 8.5% to 30%. The impact of gantry rotation on the breathing signal was assessed with data acquired with a Quasar phantom (Modus Medical Devices Inc., London, Canada) and found to be minimal on the signal frequency. The new technique developed in this work will provide a practical solution to rendering markerless breathing signal using the CBCT projections for thoracic and abdominal patients. PMID:27008349

Enhancing breast projection in autologous reconstruction using the St Andrew’s coning technique and 3D volumetric analysis

PubMed Central

Chae, Michael P.; Patel, Nakul Gamanlal; Hunter-Smith, David J.; Ramakrishnan, Venkat

2017-01-01

Background An increasing number of women undergo mastectomy for breast cancer and post-mastectomy autologous breast reconstruction has been shown to significantly improve the psychosexual wellbeing of the patients. A goal of treatment is to achieve symmetry and projection to match the native breast, and/or the contralateral breast in the case of a unilateral reconstruction. Autologous reconstruction, particularly with the deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap, is particularly advantageous as it can be manipulated to mimic the shape and turgor of the native breast. However, very few techniques of shaping the breast conus when insetting the DIEP flap to enhance aesthetic outcome have been reported to date. With the aide of three-dimension (3D) photography and 3D-printed mirrored image of the contralateral breast as a guide intraoperatively, we describe our St Andrew’s coning technique to create a personalized flap projection. Method We report a prospective case series of 3 delayed unilateral breast reconstructions where symmetrization procedure to the contralateral breast was not indicated. Using a commercial 3D scanner (VECTRA XR, Canfield Scientific), the breast region was imaged. The mirrored image was 3D-printed in-house using a desktop 3D printer. Results In all cases, projection of the breast mound was able to be safely achieved, with a demonstrated central volume (or ‘cone’) able to be highlighted on imaging and a 3D printed breast. A 3D print of the contralateral breast was able to be used intraoperatively to guide the operative approach. Conclusions The St Andrew’s coning technique is a useful aesthetic maneuver for achieving breast projection during DIEP flap breast reconstruction, with 3D imaging techniques able to assist in perioperative assessment of breast volume. PMID:29302489

Development and comparison of projection and image space 3D nodule insertion techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Robins, Marthony; Solomon, Justin; Sahbaee, Pooyan; Samei, Ehsan

2016-04-01

This study aimed to develop and compare two methods of inserting computerized virtual lesions into CT datasets. 24 physical (synthetic) nodules of three sizes and four morphologies were inserted into an anthropomorphic chest phantom (LUNGMAN, KYOTO KAGAKU). The phantom was scanned (Somatom Definition Flash, Siemens Healthcare) with and without nodules present, and images were reconstructed with filtered back projection and iterative reconstruction (SAFIRE) at 0.6 mm slice thickness using a standard thoracic CT protocol at multiple dose settings. Virtual 3D CAD models based on the physical nodules were virtually inserted (accounting for the system MTF) into the nodule-free CT data using two techniques. These techniques include projection-based and image-based insertion. Nodule volumes were estimated using a commercial segmentation tool (iNtuition, TeraRecon, Inc.). Differences were tested using paired t-tests and R2 goodness of fit between the virtually and physically inserted nodules. Both insertion techniques resulted in nodule volumes very similar to the real nodules (<3% difference) and in most cases the differences were not statistically significant. Also, R2 values were all <0.97 for both insertion techniques. These data imply that these techniques can confidently be used as a means of inserting virtual nodules in CT datasets. These techniques can be instrumental in building hybrid CT datasets composed of patient images with virtually inserted nodules.

Optimizing charge breeding techniques for ISOL facilities in Europe: Conclusions from the EMILIE project

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

Delahaye, P., E-mail: delahaye@ganil.fr; Jardin, P.; Maunoury, L.

The present paper summarizes the results obtained from the past few years in the framework of the Enhanced Multi-Ionization of short-Lived Isotopes for Eurisol (EMILIE) project. The EMILIE project aims at improving the charge breeding techniques with both Electron Cyclotron Resonance Ion Sources (ECRIS) and Electron Beam Ion Sources (EBISs) for European Radioactive Ion Beam (RIB) facilities. Within EMILIE, an original technique for debunching the beam from EBIS charge breeders is being developed, for making an optimal use of the capabilities of CW post-accelerators of the future facilities. Such a debunching technique should eventually resolve duty cycle and time structuremore » issues which presently complicate the data-acquisition of experiments. The results of the first tests of this technique are reported here. In comparison with charge breeding with an EBIS, the ECRIS technique had lower performance in efficiency and attainable charge state for metallic ion beams and also suffered from issues related to beam contamination. In recent years, improvements have been made which significantly reduce the differences between the two techniques, making ECRIS charge breeding more attractive especially for CW machines producing intense beams. Upgraded versions of the Phoenix charge breeder, originally developed by LPSC, will be used at SPES and GANIL/SPIRAL. These two charge breeders have benefited from studies undertaken within EMILIE, which are also briefly summarized here.« less

MO-DE-207A-10: One-Step CT Reconstruction for Metal Artifact Reduction by a Modification of Penalized Weighted Least-Squares (PWLS)

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

Kim, H; Chen, J

Purpose: Metal objects create severe artifacts in kilo-voltage (kV) CT image reconstructions due to the high attenuation coefficients of high atomic number objects. Most of the techniques devised to reduce this artifact utilize a two-step approach, which do not reliably yield the qualified reconstructed images. Thus, for accuracy and simplicity, this work presents a one-step reconstruction method based on a modified penalized weighted least-squares (PWLS) technique. Methods: Existing techniques for metal artifact reduction mostly adopt a two-step approach, which conduct additional reconstruction with the modified projection data from the initial reconstruction. This procedure does not consistently perform well due tomore » the uncertainties in manipulating the metal-contaminated projection data by thresholding and linear interpolation. This study proposes a one-step reconstruction process using a new PWLS operation with total-variation (TV) minimization, while not manipulating the projection. The PWLS for CT reconstruction has been investigated using a pre-defined weight, based on the variance of the projection datum at each detector bin. It works well when reconstructing CT images from metal-free projection data, which does not appropriately penalize metal-contaminated projection data. The proposed work defines the weight at each projection element under the assumption of a Poisson random variable. This small modification using element-wise penalization has a large impact in reducing metal artifacts. For evaluation, the proposed technique was assessed with two noisy, metal-contaminated digital phantoms, against the existing PWLS with TV minimization and the two-step approach. Result: The proposed PWLS with TV minimization greatly improved the metal artifact reduction, relative to the other techniques, by watching the results. Numerically, the new approach lowered the normalized root-mean-square error about 30 and 60% for the two cases, respectively, compared to the two-step method. Conclusion: A new PWLS operation shows promise for improving metal artifact reduction in CT imaging, as well as simplifying the reconstructing procedure.« less

A novel pre-processing technique for improving image quality in digital breast tomosynthesis.

PubMed

Kim, Hyeongseok; Lee, Taewon; Hong, Joonpyo; Sabir, Sohail; Lee, Jung-Ryun; Choi, Young Wook; Kim, Hak Hee; Chae, Eun Young; Cho, Seungryong

2017-02-01

Nonlinear pre-reconstruction processing of the projection data in computed tomography (CT) where accurate recovery of the CT numbers is important for diagnosis is usually discouraged, for such a processing would violate the physics of image formation in CT. However, one can devise a pre-processing step to enhance detectability of lesions in digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) where accurate recovery of the CT numbers is fundamentally impossible due to the incompleteness of the scanned data. Since the detection of lesions such as micro-calcifications and mass in breasts is the purpose of using DBT, it is justified that a technique producing higher detectability of lesions is a virtue. A histogram modification technique was developed in the projection data domain. Histogram of raw projection data was first divided into two parts: One for the breast projection data and the other for background. Background pixel values were set to a single value that represents the boundary between breast and background. After that, both histogram parts were shifted by an appropriate amount of offset and the histogram-modified projection data were log-transformed. Filtered-backprojection (FBP) algorithm was used for image reconstruction of DBT. To evaluate performance of the proposed method, we computed the detectability index for the reconstructed images from clinically acquired data. Typical breast border enhancement artifacts were greatly suppressed and the detectability of calcifications and masses was increased by use of the proposed method. Compared to a global threshold-based post-reconstruction processing technique, the proposed method produced images of higher contrast without invoking additional image artifacts. In this work, we report a novel pre-processing technique that improves detectability of lesions in DBT and has potential advantages over the global threshold-based post-reconstruction processing technique. The proposed method not only increased the lesion detectability but also reduced typical image artifacts pronounced in conventional FBP-based DBT. © 2016 American Association of Physicists in Medicine.

High-speed three-dimensional shape measurement for dynamic scenes using bi-frequency tripolar pulse-width-modulation fringe projection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zuo, Chao; Chen, Qian; Gu, Guohua; Feng, Shijie; Feng, Fangxiaoyu; Li, Rubin; Shen, Guochen

2013-08-01

This paper introduces a high-speed three-dimensional (3-D) shape measurement technique for dynamic scenes by using bi-frequency tripolar pulse-width-modulation (TPWM) fringe projection. Two wrapped phase maps with different wavelengths can be obtained simultaneously by our bi-frequency phase-shifting algorithm. Then the two phase maps are unwrapped using a simple look-up-table based number-theoretical approach. To guarantee the robustness of phase unwrapping as well as the high sinusoidality of projected patterns, TPWM technique is employed to generate ideal fringe patterns with slight defocus. We detailed our technique, including its principle, pattern design, and system setup. Several experiments on dynamic scenes were performed, verifying that our method can achieve a speed of 1250 frames per second for fast, dense, and accurate 3-D measurements.

Myoglobin Structure and Function: A Multiweek Biochemistry Laboratory Project

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Silverstein, Todd P.; Kirk, Sarah R.; Meyer, Scott C.; Holman, Karen L. McFarlane

2015-01-01

We have developed a multiweek laboratory project in which students isolate myoglobin and characterize its structure, function, and redox state. The important laboratory techniques covered in this project include size-exclusion chromatography, electrophoresis, spectrophotometric titration, and FTIR spectroscopy. Regarding protein structure,…

76 FR 66043 - Proposed Information Collection; Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-10-25

... concerning its proposed renewal of Day of Service Project Promotion Tool. Anyone organizing a volunteer event will be able to register their projects, including: national service projects, corporations, volunteer..., electronic, mechanical, or other technological collection techniques or other forms of information technology...

Acquisition Systems Protection Planning the Manhatten Project: A Case Study

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-06-03

This study examines the counterintelligence and security programs of the Manhattan Project , the United States acquisition of the atomic bomb, using...assessment methodology and counterintelligence techniques and procedures. Acquisition systems, Program protection, Manhattan Project , Atomic bomb, Technology protection, Counterintelligence, Security.

Non-rigid alignment in electron tomography in materials science.

PubMed

Printemps, Tony; Bernier, Nicolas; Bleuet, Pierre; Mula, Guido; Hervé, Lionel

2016-09-01

Electron tomography is a key technique that enables the visualization of an object in three dimensions with a resolution of about a nanometre. High-quality 3D reconstruction is possible thanks to the latest compressed sensing algorithms and/or better alignment and preprocessing of the 2D projections. Rigid alignment of 2D projections is routine in electron tomography. However, it cannot correct misalignments induced by (i) deformations of the sample due to radiation damage or (ii) drifting of the sample during the acquisition of an image in scanning transmission electron microscope mode. In both cases, those misalignments can give rise to artefacts in the reconstruction. We propose a simple-to-implement non-rigid alignment technique to correct those artefacts. This technique is particularly suited for needle-shaped samples in materials science. It is initiated by a rigid alignment of the projections and it is then followed by several rigid alignments of different parts of the projections. Piecewise linear deformations are applied to each projection to force them to simultaneously satisfy the rigid alignments of the different parts. The efficiency of this technique is demonstrated on three samples, an intermetallic sample with deformation misalignments due to a high electron dose typical to spectroscopic electron tomography, a porous silicon sample with an extremely thin end particularly sensitive to electron beam and another porous silicon sample that was drifting during image acquisitions. © 2016 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2016 Royal Microscopical Society.

LSSA (Low-cost Silicon Solar Array) project

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1976-01-01

Methods are explored for economically generating electrical power to meet future requirements. The Low-Cost Silicon Solar Array Project (LSSA) was established to reduce the price of solar arrays by improving manufacturing technology, adapting mass production techniques, and promoting user acceptance. The new manufacturing technology includes the consideration of new silicon refinement processes, silicon sheet growth techniques, encapsulants, and automated assembly production being developed under contract by industries and universities.

NONDESTRUCTIVE TESTING (NDT) TECHNIQUES TO DETECT CONTAINED SUBSURFACE HAZARDOUS WASTE

EPA Science Inventory

The project involves the detection of buried containers with NDT (remote-sensing) techniques. Seventeen techniques were considered and four were ultimately decided upon. They were: electromagnetic induction (EMI); metal detection (MD); magnetometer (MAG); and ground penetrating r...

Developing a decision support system for R&D project portfolio selection with interdependencies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ashrafi, Maryam; Davoudpour, Hamid; Abbassi, Mohammad

2012-11-01

Although investment in research and technology is a promising tool for technology centered organizations through obtaining their objectives, resource constraints make organizations select between their pool of research and technology projects through means of R&D project portfolio selection techniques mitigating corresponding risks and enhancing the overall value of project portfolio.

Regional Interstate Planning Project Program . . . Vol. IX. California Program Evaluation Improvement Project. Seminar Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dearmin, Evalyn, Ed.; And Others

Program evaluation strategies and techniques based on materials developed by the California Evaluation Improvement Project were discussed at this meeting of the Regional Interstate Planning Project (RIPP). RIPP members represent the State Departments of Education of ten western states, and have met periodically over the past nine years to discuss…

Climate project screening tool: an aid for climate change adaptation

Treesearch

Toni Lyn Morelli; Sharon Yeh; Nikola M. Smith; Mary Beth Hennessy; Constance I. Millar

2012-01-01

To address the impacts of climate change, land managers need techniques for incorporating adaptation into ongoing or impending projects. We present a new tool, the Climate Project Screening Tool (CPST), for integrating climate change considerations into project planning as well as for developing concrete adaptation options for land managers. We designed CPST as part of...

Scandcleft randomised trials of primary surgery for unilateral cleft lip and palate: 8. Assessing naso-labial appearance in 5-year-olds - a preliminary study.

PubMed

Mølsted, Kirsten; Humerinta, Kirsti; Küseler, Annelise; Skaare, Pål; Bellardie, Haydn; Shaw, William; Karsten, Agneta; Kåre Sæle, Paul; Rizell, Sara; Marcusson, Agneta; Eyres, Philip; Semb, Gunvor

2017-02-01

Facial appearance is one of the most relevant measures of success in cleft lip and palate treatment. The aim was to assess nasolabial appearance at 5 years of age in all children in the project. In this part of the project the local protocol for lip closure continued to be used because the primary lip and nose operations were not part of the randomisation. The great majority of the surgeons used Millard's technique together with McComb's technique for the nose. One center used Tennison-Randalls technique and in one center the centers own technique as well as nose plugs were used. Three hundred and fifty-nine children participated in this part of the project. Standardised photos according to a specific protocol developed for the Scandcleft project were taken. Only the nasolabial area was shown, the surrounding facial features were masked. Three components were scored using a 5-point ordinal scale. A new developed Scandcleft Yardstick was used. The reliability of the method was tested using the weighted kappa statistics. Both the interrater and intrarater reliability scores were good to very good. There were statistically significant differences between the three trials. The Millard procedure combined with McComb technique had been used in the majority of the cases in all three trials. There were statistically significant differences between the three trials concerning upper lip, nasal form, and cleft side profile. ISRCTN29932826.

Evaluation of bridge decks using non-destructive evaluation (NDE) at near highway speeds for effective asset management - pilot project.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-09-29

This project piloted the findings from an initial research and development project pertaining to the detection, : quantification, and visualization of bridge deck distresses through the use of remote sensing techniques, specifically : combining optic...

Pilot testing of SHRP 2 reliability data and analytical products: Florida. [supporting datasets

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2014-01-01

SHRP 2 initiated the L38 project to pilot test products from five of the programs completed projects. The products support reliability estimation and use based on data analyses, analytical techniques, and decision-making framework. The L38 project...

15 CFR 292.3 - Technical tools, techniques, practices, and analyses projects.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... understanding of existing organizations and resources relevant to the proposed project; adequate linkages and... the governing or managing organization to conduct the proposed activities; qualifications of the... objective. The purpose of these projects is to support the initial development, implementation, and analysis...

Evaluation of the Cape Seal Process as a Pavement Rehabilitation Alternative

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1998-10-01

A 1-year research project was conducted to evaluate the Cape seal process as a pavement rehabilitation technique. During the course of this research project, most of the Cape seal projects that have been constructed within the state were visited as p...

HARD CHROME POLLUTION PREVENTION DEMONSTRATION PROJECT - INTERIM REPORT

EPA Science Inventory

In the project, five chromium emission prevention/control devices were tested tha cover the spectrum of prevention/control techniques currently in use in small- and large-size hard chromium electroplating job shops. The Project results show that some of the tested devices had ch...

Pedagogy of stereographic projection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Blenkinsop, Tom

1999-05-01

Three sorts of problem are encountered by students learning stereographic projection. Lack of familiarity with compass directions and with the specification of planar and linear orientations is the most fundamental problem. The second problem is one of poor visualisation which prohibits the correct understanding of the principles and practice of projection, although students can sometimes perform remarkably well on certain exercises without this understanding. A third problem is a lack of interest or appreciation of the usefulness of the technique. A solution to the first problem is to provide a thorough grounding in compass directions, and concepts of strike, dip, dip direction, plunge and plunge bearing immediately before teaching stereographic projection. Visual aids, such as a transparent hemisphere to represent half of the projection sphere, and a large stereonet, are helpful for visualisation. Estimation and sketching exercises help to develop an understanding of the geometry of projection. Computer-aided teaching and plotting is recommended after an introduction to manual techniques. Interest can be stimulated through the use of exercises based on real geological maps.

Final project report for NEET pulsed ion beam project

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

Kucheyev, S. O.

The major goal of this project was to develop and demonstrate a novel experimental approach to access the dynamic regime of radiation damage formation in nuclear materials. In particular, the project exploited a pulsed-ion-beam method in order to gain insight into defect interaction dynamics by measuring effective defect interaction time constants and defect diffusion lengths. This project had the following four major objectives: (i) the demonstration of the pulsed ion beam method for a prototypical nuclear ceramic material, SiC; (ii) the evaluation of the robustness of the pulsed beam method from studies of defect generation rate effects; (iii) the measurementmore » of the temperature dependence of defect dynamics and thermally activated defect-interaction processes by pulsed ion beam techniques; and (iv) the demonstration of alternative characterization techniques to study defect dynamics. As we describe below, all these objectives have been met.« less

Dot-Projection Photogrammetry and Videogrammetry of Gossamer Space Structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pappa, Richard S.; Black, Jonathan T.; Blandino, Joseph R.; Jones, Thomas W.; Danehy, Paul M.; Dorrington, Adrian A.

2003-01-01

This paper documents the technique of using hundreds or thousands of projected dots of light as targets for photogrammetry and videogrammetry of gossamer space structures. Photogrammetry calculates the three-dimensional coordinates of each target on the structure, and videogrammetry tracks the coordinates versus time. Gossamer structures characteristically contain large areas of delicate, thin-film membranes. Examples include solar sails, large antennas, inflatable solar arrays, solar power concentrators and transmitters, sun shields, and planetary balloons and habitats. Using projected-dot targets avoids the unwanted mass, stiffness, and installation costs of traditional retroreflective adhesive targets. Four laboratory applications are covered that demonstrate the practical effectiveness of white-light dot projection for both static-shape and dynamic measurement of reflective and diffuse surfaces, respectively. Comparisons are made between dot-projection videogrammetry and traditional laser vibrometry for membrane vibration measurements. The paper closes by introducing a promising extension of existing techniques using a novel laser-induced fluorescence approach.

Topics in computational physics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Monville, Maura Edelweiss

Computational Physics spans a broad range of applied fields extending beyond the border of traditional physics tracks. Demonstrated flexibility and capability to switch to a new project, and pick up the basics of the new field quickly, are among the essential requirements for a computational physicist. In line with the above mentioned prerequisites, my thesis described the development and results of two computational projects belonging to two different applied science areas. The first project is a Materials Science application. It is a prescription for an innovative nano-fabrication technique that is built out of two other known techniques. The preliminary results of the simulation of this novel nano-patterning fabrication method show an average improvement, roughly equal to 18%, with respect to the single techniques it draws on. The second project is a Homeland Security application aimed at preventing smuggling of nuclear material at ports of entry. It is concerned with a simulation of an active material interrogation system based on the analysis of induced photo-nuclear reactions. This project consists of a preliminary evaluation of the photo-fission implementation in the more robust radiation transport Monte Carlo codes, followed by the customization and extension of MCNPX, a Monte Carlo code developed in Los Alamos National Laboratory, and MCNP-PoliMi. The final stage of the project consists of testing the interrogation system against some real world scenarios, for the purpose of determining the system's reliability, material discrimination power, and limitations.

Effectiveness of project ACORDE materials: applied evaluative research in a preclinical technique course.

PubMed

Shugars, D A; Trent, P J; Heymann, H O

1979-08-01

Two instructional strategies, the traditional lecture method and a standardized self-instructional (ACORDE) format, were compared for efficiency and perceived usefulness in a preclinical restorative dentistry technique course through the use of a posttest-only control group research design. Control and experimental groups were compared on (a) technique grades, (b) didactic grades, (c) amount of time spent, (d) student and faculty perceptions, and (e) observation of social dynamics. The results of this study demonstrated the effectiveness of Project ACORDE materials in teaching dental students, provided an example of applied research designed to test contemplated instructional innovations prior to use and used a method which highlighted qualitative, as well as quantitative, techniques for data gathering in applied research.

Egg Yolk Lecithin: A Biochemical Laboratory Project

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

White, Bernard J.; And Others

1974-01-01

Describes an undergraduate laboratory project involving lecithin which integrates two general aspects of lipid methodology: chromatographic techniques and use of enzymes specificity to obtain structural information. (Author/SLH)

The German collaborative project SUGAR Utilization of a natural treasure - Developing innovative techniques for the exploration and production of natural gas from hydrate-bearing sediments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Haeckel, M.; Bialas, J.; Wallmann, K. J.

2009-12-01

Gas hydrates occur in nature at all active and passive continental margins as well as in permafrost regions, and vast amounts of natural gas are bound in those deposits. Geologists estimate that twice as much carbon is bound in gas hydrates than in any other fossil fuel reservoir, such as gas, oil and coal. Hence, natural gas hydrates represent a huge potential energy resource that, in addition, could be utilized in a CO2-neutral and therefore environmentally friendly manner. However, the utilization of this natural treasure is not as easy as the conventional production of oil or natural gas and calls for new and innovative techniques. In the framework of the large-scale collaborative research project SUGAR (Submarine Deposits of Gas Hydrates - Exploration, Production and Transportation), we aim to produce gas from methane hydrates and to sequester carbon dioxide from power plants and other industrial sources as CO2 hydrates in the same host sediments. Thus, the SUGAR project addresses two of the most pressing and challenging topics of our time: development of alternative energy strategies and greenhouse gas mitigation techniques. The SUGAR project is funded by two federal German ministries and the German industry for an initial period of three years. In the framework of this project new technologies starting from gas hydrate exploration techniques over drilling technologies and innovative gas production methods to CO2 storage in gas hydrates and gas transportation technologies will be developed and tested. Beside the performance of experiments, numerical simulation studies will generate data regarding the methane production and CO2 sequestration in the natural environment. Reservoir modelling with respect to gas hydrate formation and development of migration pathways complete the project. This contribution will give detailed information about the planned project parts and first results with focus on the production methods.

Projective Identification in Common Couple Dances.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Middelberg, Carol V.

2001-01-01

Integrates the object relations concept of projective identification and the systemic concept of marital dances to develop a more powerful model for working with more difficult and distressed couples. Suggests how object relations techniques can be used to interrupt projective identifications and resolve conflict on intrapsychic level so the…

77 FR 19016 - Proposed Data Collections Submitted for Public Comment and Recommendations

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-03-29

... on proposed data collection projects, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will publish periodic summaries of proposed projects. To request more information on the proposed projects or... the use of automated collection techniques or other forms of information technology. Written comments...

77 FR 10750 - Proposed Data Collections Submitted for Public Comment and Recommendations

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-02-23

... on proposed data collection projects, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will publish periodic summaries of proposed projects. To request more information on the proposed projects or... through the use of automated collection techniques or other forms of information technology. Written...

Group Projects and the Computer Science Curriculum

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Joy, Mike

2005-01-01

Group projects in computer science are normally delivered with reference to good software engineering practice. The discipline of software engineering is rapidly evolving, and the application of the latest 'agile techniques' to group projects causes a potential conflict with constraints imposed by regulating bodies on the computer science…

A Role for Soft Systems Methodology in ELT Projects.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Holliday, Adrian

1990-01-01

Discusses the uses for soft systems methodology (SSM) in English language training (ELT) projects. It is suggested that ethnographic techniques may help in achieving the understanding needed to start an ELT project while SSM may provide a useful means for structuring ethnographic findings. (Author/VWL)

Project Sell, Title VII: Final Evaluation 1970-1971.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Condon, Elaine C.; And Others

This evaluative report consists of two parts. The first is a narrative report which represents a summary by the evaluation team and recommendations regarding project activities; the second part provides a statistical analysis of project achievements. Details are provided on evaluation techniques, staff, management, instructional materials,…

Topometry of technical and biological objects by fringe projection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Windecker, R.; Tiziani, H. J.

1995-07-01

Fringe projection is a fast and accurate technique for obtaining the topometry of a wide range of surfaces. Here some features of the principle are described, together with the possibilities of adapting this technique for the measurement of vaulted surfaces. We discuss various methods of phase evaluation and compare them with simulated computer data to obtain the resolution limits. Under certain restrictions a semispatial algorithm, called the modified Fourier analysis algorithm, gives the best results. One special subject of interest is the application of fringe projection for the measurement of the three-dimensional surface of the cornea. First results of in vivo measurements are presented.

Hardware-Enabled Security Through On-Chip Reconfigurable Fabric

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-02-05

SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF: The goal of this project was to enable hardware-based security techniques on future microprocessors in a way that they... microprocessors in a way that they can be added and updated after fabrication, similar to software, while maintaining the efficiency and the security of...Progress The goal of this project was to enable hardware-based security techniques on future microprocessors in a way that they can be added and

Development and demonstration of marketing techniques for establishment of ridesharing corporations in New York State: Final report

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

Peters, E.W.; Matthews, N.P.

1987-10-01

The intent of this project was to develop, demonstrate and evaluate marketing techniques for the establishment of ridesharing corporations in New York State. The objectives of the first phase of the project were to: (1) develop a ''how-to'' guide for establishing a ridesharing corporation; and (2) conduct a market assessment to identify specific methods for capturing potential users of the service. The objectives of the second phase of the project were to: (1) prepare and implement a marketing strategy to address the various major users and evaluate the viability of new marketing techniques developed in Phase 1 and marketing techniquesmore » developed during the first year of operations; and (2) develop and disseminate a ''how-to'' guide regarding the development, implementation and evaluation of marketing strategies for ridesharing in New York State.« less

Study of pipe thickness loss using a neutron radiography method

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

Mohamed, Abdul Aziz; Wahab, Aliff Amiru Bin; Yazid, Hafizal B.

2014-02-12

The purpose of this preliminary work is to study for thickness changes in objects using neutron radiography. In doing the project, the technique for the radiography was studied. The experiment was done at NUR-2 facility at TRIGA research reactor in Malaysian Nuclear Agency, Malaysia. Test samples of varying materials were used in this project. The samples were radiographed using direct technique. Radiographic images were recorded using Nitrocellulose film. The films obtained were digitized to processed and analyzed. Digital processing is done on the images using software Isee!. The images were processed to produce better image for analysis. The thickness changesmore » in the image were measured to be compared with real thickness of the objects. From the data collected, percentages difference between measured and real thickness are below than 2%. This is considerably very low variation from original values. Therefore, verifying the neutron radiography technique used in this project.« less

Visualization techniques to aid in the analysis of multi-spectral astrophysical data sets

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Domik, Gitta; Alam, Salim; Pinkney, Paul

1992-01-01

This report describes our project activities for the period Sep. 1991 - Oct. 1992. Our activities included stabilizing the software system STAR, porting STAR to IDL/widgets (improved user interface), targeting new visualization techniques for multi-dimensional data visualization (emphasizing 3D visualization), and exploring leading-edge 3D interface devices. During the past project year we emphasized high-end visualization techniques, by exploring new tools offered by state-of-the-art visualization software (such as AVS3 and IDL4/widgets), by experimenting with tools still under research at the Department of Computer Science (e.g., use of glyphs for multidimensional data visualization), and by researching current 3D input/output devices as they could be used to explore 3D astrophysical data. As always, any project activity is driven by the need to interpret astrophysical data more effectively.

Non-Profit/Higher Education Project Management Series: Project Management (PM) Foundations

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Burgher, Karl E.; Snyder, Michael B.

2012-01-01

This is the first in a series of forum articles on applying project management (PM) techniques and tools to the nonprofit sector with a focus on higher education. The authors will begin with a traditional look at project management because they believe that the integration of the tools and the processes associated with PM into many campus offices…

Final-Year Projects as a Major Element in the IE Curriculum

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Vitner, G.; Rozenes, S.

2009-01-01

This paper presents a multi-perspective view of the final-year project of an industrial engineering and management (IEM) department. The final year project is a major element of a 4-year curriculum within any engineering discipline. Such a project gives the student an opportunity to use and implement methods, techniques and tools that he or she…

Expansion of the On-line Archive "Statistically Downscaled WCRP CMIP3 Climate Projections"

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brekke, L. D.; Pruitt, T.; Maurer, E. P.; Das, T.; Duffy, P.; White, K.

2009-12-01

Presentation highlights status and plans for a public-access archive of downscaled CMIP3 climate projections. Incorporating climate projection information into long-term evaluations of water and energy resources requires analysts to have access to projections at "basin-relevant" resolution. Such projections would ideally be bias-corrected to account for climate model tendencies to systematically simulate historical conditions different than observed. In 2007, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, Santa Clara University and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) collaborated to develop an archive of 112 bias-corrected and spatially disaggregated (BCSD) CMIP3 temperature and precipitation projections. These projections were generated using 16 CMIP3 models to simulate three emissions pathways (A2, A1b, and B1) from one or more initializations (runs). Projections are specified on a monthly time step from 1950-2099 and at 0.125 degree spatial resolution within the North American Land Data Assimilation System domain (i.e. contiguous U.S., southern Canada and northern Mexico). Archive data are freely accessible at LLNL Green Data Oasis (url). Since being launched, the archive has served over 3500 data requests by nearly 500 users in support of a range of planning, research and educational activities. Archive developers continue to look for ways to improve the archive and respond to user needs. One request has been to serve the intermediate datasets generated during the BCSD procedure, helping users to interpret the relative influences of the bias-correction and spatial disaggregation on the transformed CMIP3 output. This request has been addressed with intermediate datasets now posted at the archive web-site. Another request relates closely to studying hydrologic and ecological impacts under climate change, where users are asking for projected diurnal temperature information (e.g., projected daily minimum and maximum temperature) and daily time step resolution. In response, archive developers are adding content in 2010, teaming with Scripps Institution of Oceanography (through their NOAA-RISA California-Nevada Applications Program and the California Climate Change Center) to apply a new daily downscaling technique to a sub-ensemble of the archive’s CMIP3 projections. The new technique, Bias-Corrected Constructed Analogs, combines the BC part of BCSD with a recently developed technique that preserves the daily sequencing structure of CMIP3 projections (Constructed Analogs, or CA). Such data will more easily serve hydrologic and ecological impacts assessments, and offer an opportunity to evaluate projection uncertainty associated with downscaling technique. Looking ahead to the arrival CMIP5 projections, archive collaborators have plans apply both BCSD and BCCA over the contiguous U.S. consistent with CMIP3 applications above, and also apply BCSD globally at a 0.5 degree spatial resolution. The latter effort involves collaboration with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and Climate Central.

Multi-Model Combination techniques for Hydrological Forecasting: Application to Distributed Model Intercomparison Project Results

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

Ajami, N K; Duan, Q; Gao, X

2005-04-11

This paper examines several multi-model combination techniques: the Simple Multi-model Average (SMA), the Multi-Model Super Ensemble (MMSE), Modified Multi-Model Super Ensemble (M3SE) and the Weighted Average Method (WAM). These model combination techniques were evaluated using the results from the Distributed Model Intercomparison Project (DMIP), an international project sponsored by the National Weather Service (NWS) Office of Hydrologic Development (OHD). All of the multi-model combination results were obtained using uncalibrated DMIP model outputs and were compared against the best uncalibrated as well as the best calibrated individual model results. The purpose of this study is to understand how different combination techniquesmore » affect the skill levels of the multi-model predictions. This study revealed that the multi-model predictions obtained from uncalibrated single model predictions are generally better than any single member model predictions, even the best calibrated single model predictions. Furthermore, more sophisticated multi-model combination techniques that incorporated bias correction steps work better than simple multi-model average predictions or multi-model predictions without bias correction.« less

Integration of optical measurement methods with flight parameter measurement systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kopecki, Grzegorz; Rzucidlo, Pawel

2016-05-01

During the AIM (advanced in-flight measurement techniques) and AIM2 projects, innovative modern techniques were developed. The purpose of the AIM project was to develop optical measurement techniques dedicated for flight tests. Such methods give information about aircraft elements deformation, thermal loads or pressure distribution, etc. In AIM2 the development of optical methods for flight testing was continued. In particular, this project aimed at the development of methods that could be easily applied in flight tests in an industrial setting. Another equally important task was to guarantee the synchronization of the classical measuring system with cameras. The PW-6U glider used in flight tests was provided by the Rzeszów University of Technology. The glider had all the equipment necessary for testing the IPCT (image pattern correlation technique) and IRT (infrared thermometry) methods. Additionally, equipment adequate for the measurement of typical flight parameters, registration and analysis has been developed. This article describes the designed system, as well as presenting the system’s application during flight tests. Additionally, the results obtained in flight tests show certain limitations of the IRT method as applied.

Remote sensing techniques in cultural resource management archaeology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Johnson, Jay K.; Haley, Bryan S.

2003-04-01

Cultural resource management archaeology in the United States concerns compliance with legislation set in place to protect archaeological resources from the impact of modern activities. Traditionally, surface collection, shovel testing, test excavation, and mechanical stripping are used in these projects. These methods are expensive, time consuming, and may poorly represent the features within archaeological sites. The use of remote sensing techniques in cultural resource management archaeology may provide an answer to these problems. Near-surface geophysical techniques, including magnetometry, resistivity, electromagnetics, and ground penetrating radar, have proven to be particularly successful at efficiently locating archaeological features. Research has also indicated airborne and satellite remote sensing may hold some promise in the future for large-scale archaeological survey, although this is difficult in many areas of the world where ground cover reflect archaeological features in an indirect manner. A cost simulation of a hypothetical data recovery project on a large complex site in Mississippi is presented to illustrate the potential advantages of remote sensing in a cultural resource management setting. The results indicate these techniques can save a substantial amount of time and money for these projects.

Interface projection techniques for fluid-structure interaction modeling with moving-mesh methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tezduyar, Tayfun E.; Sathe, Sunil; Pausewang, Jason; Schwaab, Matthew; Christopher, Jason; Crabtree, Jason

2008-12-01

The stabilized space-time fluid-structure interaction (SSTFSI) technique developed by the Team for Advanced Flow Simulation and Modeling (T★AFSM) was applied to a number of 3D examples, including arterial fluid mechanics and parachute aerodynamics. Here we focus on the interface projection techniques that were developed as supplementary methods targeting the computational challenges associated with the geometric complexities of the fluid-structure interface. Although these supplementary techniques were developed in conjunction with the SSTFSI method and in the context of air-fabric interactions, they can also be used in conjunction with other moving-mesh methods, such as the Arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian (ALE) method, and in the context of other classes of FSI applications. The supplementary techniques currently consist of using split nodal values for pressure at the edges of the fabric and incompatible meshes at the air-fabric interfaces, the FSI Geometric Smoothing Technique (FSI-GST), and the Homogenized Modeling of Geometric Porosity (HMGP). Using split nodal values for pressure at the edges and incompatible meshes at the interfaces stabilizes the structural response at the edges of the membrane used in modeling the fabric. With the FSI-GST, the fluid mechanics mesh is sheltered from the consequences of the geometric complexity of the structure. With the HMGP, we bypass the intractable complexities of the geometric porosity by approximating it with an “equivalent”, locally-varying fabric porosity. As test cases demonstrating how the interface projection techniques work, we compute the air-fabric interactions of windsocks, sails and ringsail parachutes.

34 CFR 429.10 - What types of projects may be funded?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... cooperative agreements for— (a) Research in bilingual vocational training; (b) The development of instructional and curriculum materials, methods, or techniques; (c) Training projects to familiarize State...

Application of Delphi expert panel in joint venture projects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Adnan, H.; Rosman, M. R.; Rashid, Z. Z. Ahmad; Mohamad Yusuwan, N.; Bakhary, N. A.

2018-02-01

This study was conducted with the aim to identify the application of the Delphi Technique in validating findings obtained from questionnaire surveys and interviews done in- depth on the subject of joint venture projects in Malaysia. The Delphi technique aims to achieve a consensus of opinion amongst expert panellist that were selected on the primary factors in JV projects. To achieve research objectives, a progressive series of questions was designed where a selected panel of expert to confirm and validate the final findings. The rationale, benefits, limitations and recommendations for the use of Delphi were given in this study. From the literature review done, twenty-one factors were identified as critical factors to the making any joint venture project successful. Detail information from contractors were obtained by using the questionnaire survey method and forty-three in-depth interviews were carried out. Trust between partners, mutual understanding, partner selection criteria, agreement of contract, objective compatibility, conflict, and commitment were confirmed by the Delphi panel to be the critical success factors besides another fourteen factors which were found to be the Failure Reduction Criteria. Delphi techniques has proven to successfully assist in recognising the main factors and would be beneficial in supplementing the success of joint venture arrangements application for construction projects in Malaysia.

Low-cost Solar Array (LSA) project

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1978-01-01

Progress made by the Low-Cost Silicon Solar Array Project during the period January through March 1978 is reported. It includes task reports on silicon material processing, large-area silicon sheet development, encapsulation materials testing and development, project engineering and operations, and manufacturing techniques, plus the steps taken to integrate these efforts.

The use of cluster analysis techniques in spaceflight project cost risk estimation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fox, G.; Ebbeler, D.; Jorgensen, E.

2003-01-01

Project cost risk is the uncertainty in final project cost, contingent on initial budget, requirements and schedule. For a proposed mission, a dynamic simulation model relying for some of its input on a simple risk elicitation is used to identify and quantify systemic cost risk.

IT Project Success w\\7120 and 7123 NPRs to Achieve Project Success

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Walley, Tina L.

2009-01-01

This slide presentation reviews management techniques to assure information technology development project success. Details include the work products, the work breakdown structure (WBS), system integration, verification and validation (IV&V), and deployment and operations. An example, the NASA Consolidated Active Directory (NCAD), is reviewed.

78 FR 49758 - Proposed Data Collections Submitted for Public Comment and Recommendations

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-08-15

... on proposed data collection projects, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will publish periodic summaries of proposed projects. To request more information on the proposed projects or... collection techniques or other forms of information technology. Written comments should be received within 60...

77 FR 58394 - Proposed Data Collections Submitted for Public Comment and Recommendations

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-09-20

... on proposed data collection projects, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will publish periodic summaries of proposed projects. To request more information on the proposed projects or... collection techniques or other forms of information technology. Written comments should be received within 60...

Effective Vocational Training Procedures for EMR Students. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Carter, Robert

A project was conducted to train Jefferson County, Alabama, vocational education instructors in effective teaching techniques and to develop appropriate instructional procedures for educable mentally retarded students. Vocational education areas included in the project were welding, food service, and brick masonry. The project was conducted in two…

A Systems Development Life Cycle Project for the AIS Class

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wang, Ting J.; Saemann, Georgia; Du, Hui

2007-01-01

The Systems Development Life Cycle (SDLC) project was designed for use by an accounting information systems (AIS) class. Along the tasks in the SDLC, this project integrates students' knowledge of transaction and business processes, systems documentation techniques, relational database concepts, and hands-on skills in relational database use.…

Scientific data bases on a VAX-11/780 running VMS

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

Benkovitz, C.M.; Tichler, J.L.

At Brookhaven National Laboratory several current projects are developing and applying data management techniques to compile, analyze and distribute scientific data sets that are the result of various multi institutional experiments and data gathering projects. This paper will present an overview of a few of these data management projects.

Zero-Slack, Noncritical Paths

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Simons, Jacob V., Jr.

2017-01-01

The critical path method/program evaluation and review technique method of project scheduling is based on the importance of managing a project's critical path(s). Although a critical path is the longest path through a network, its location in large projects is facilitated by the computation of activity slack. However, logical fallacies in…

Flight Hardware Packaging Design for Stringent EMC Radiated Emission Requirements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lortz, Charlene L.; Huang, Chi-Chien N.; Ravich, Joshua A.; Steiner, Carl N.

2013-01-01

This packaging design approach can help heritage hardware meet a flight project's stringent EMC radiated emissions requirement. The approach requires only minor modifications to a hardware's chassis and mainly concentrates on its connector interfaces. The solution is to raise the surface area where the connector is mounted by a few millimeters using a pedestal, and then wrapping with conductive tape from the cable backshell down to the surface-mounted connector. This design approach has been applied to JPL flight project subsystems. The EMC radiated emissions requirements for flight projects can vary from benign to mission critical. If the project's EMC requirements are stringent, the best approach to meet EMC requirements would be to design an EMC control program for the project early on and implement EMC design techniques starting with the circuit board layout. This is the ideal scenario for hardware that is built from scratch. Implementation of EMC radiated emissions mitigation techniques can mature as the design progresses, with minimal impact to the design cycle. The real challenge exists for hardware that is planned to be flown following a built-to-print approach, in which heritage hardware from a past project with a different set of requirements is expected to perform satisfactorily for a new project. With acceptance of heritage, the design would already be established (circuit board layout and components have already been pre-determined), and hence any radiated emissions mitigation techniques would only be applicable at the packaging level. The key is to take a heritage design with its known radiated emissions spectrum and repackage, or modify its chassis design so that it would have a better chance of meeting the new project s radiated emissions requirements.

Analysis of polarization in hydrogen bonded complexes: An asymptotic projection approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Drici, Nedjoua

2018-03-01

The asymptotic projection technique is used to investigate the polarization effect that arises from the interaction between the relaxed, and frozen monomeric charge densities of a set of neutral and charged hydrogen bonded complexes. The AP technique based on the resolution of the original Kohn-Sham equations can give an acceptable qualitative description of the polarization effect in neutral complexes. The significant overlap of the electron densities, in charged and π-conjugated complexes, impose further development of a new functional, describing the coupling between constrained and non-constrained electron densities within the AP technique to provide an accurate representation of the polarization effect.

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

Hunter, Scott R.; Efird, Marty

The purpose of the technology maturation project was to develop an enhanced application technique for applying diatomaceous earth with pinned polysiloxane oil to PVC pipes and materials. The oil infiltration technique is applied as a spray of diluted oil in a solvent onto the superhydrophobic diatomaceous earth substrate. This makes the surface take on the following characteristics: wet-cleanable; anti-biofouling; waterproof; and anti-corrosion. The project involved obtaining input and supplies from VeloxFlow and the development of successful techniques that would quickly result in a commercial license agreement with VeloxFlow and other companies that use PVC materials in a variety of othermore » fields of use.« less

Non-invasive assessment of skeletal muscle activity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Merletti, Roberto; Orizio, Claudio; di Prampero, Pietro E.; Tesch, Per

2005-10-01

After the first 3 years (2002-2005), the MAP project has made available: - systems fo electrodes, signal conditioning and digital processing for multichannel simultaneously-detected EMG and MMG as well as for simultaneous electrical stimulation and EMG detection with artifact cancellation. - innovative non-invasive techniques for the extraction of individual motor unit action potentials (MUAPS) and individual motor and MMG contributions from the surface EMG interference signal and the MMG signal. - processing techniques for extractions of indicators of progressive fatigue from the electrically-elicited (M-wave) EMG signal. - techniques for the analysis of dynamic multichannel EMG during cyclic or explosive exercise (in collaboration with project EXER/MAP-MED-027).

SAGA: A project to automate the management of software production systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Campbell, Roy H.; Beckman-Davies, C. S.; Benzinger, L.; Beshers, G.; Laliberte, D.; Render, H.; Sum, R.; Smith, W.; Terwilliger, R.

1986-01-01

Research into software development is required to reduce its production cost and to improve its quality. Modern software systems, such as the embedded software required for NASA's space station initiative, stretch current software engineering techniques. The requirements to build large, reliable, and maintainable software systems increases with time. Much theoretical and practical research is in progress to improve software engineering techniques. One such technique is to build a software system or environment which directly supports the software engineering process, i.e., the SAGA project, comprising the research necessary to design and build a software development which automates the software engineering process. Progress under SAGA is described.

SU-D-207-01: Markerless Respiratory Motion Tracking with Contrast Enhanced Thoracic Cone Beam CT Projections

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

Chao, M; Yuan, Y; Rosenzweig, K

2015-06-15

Purpose: To develop a novel technique to enhance the image contrast of clinical cone beam CT projections and extract respiratory signals based on anatomical motion using the modified Amsterdam Shroud (AS) method to benefit image guided radiation therapy. Methods: Thoracic cone beam CT projections acquired prior to treatment were preprocessed to increase their contrast for better respiratory signal extraction. Air intensity on raw images was firstly estimated and then applied to correct the projections to generate new attenuation images that were subsequently improved with deeper anatomy feature enhancement through taking logarithm operation, derivative along superior-inferior direction, respectively. All pixels onmore » individual post-processed two dimensional images were horizontally summed to one column and all projections were combined side by side to create an AS image from which patient’s respiratory signal was extracted. The impact of gantry rotation on the breathing signal rendering was also investigated. Ten projection image sets from five lung cancer patients acquired with the Varian Onboard Imager on 21iX Clinac (Varian Medical Systems, Palo Alto, CA) were employed to assess the proposed technique. Results: Application of the air correction on raw projections showed that more than an order of magnitude of contrast enhancement was achievable. The typical contrast on the raw projections is around 0.02 while that on attenuation images could greater than 0.5. Clear and stable breathing signal can be reliably extracted from the new images while the uncorrected projection sets failed to yield clear signals most of the time. Conclusion: Anatomy feature plays a key role in yielding breathing signal from the projection images using the AS technique. The air correction process facilitated the contrast enhancement significantly and attenuation images thus obtained provides a practical solution to obtaining markerless breathing motion tracking.« less

Non-invasive current and voltage imaging techniques for integrated circuits using scanning probe microscopy. Final report, LDRD Project FY93 and FY94

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

Campbell, A.N.; Cole, E.I. Jr.; Tangyunyong, Paiboon

This report describes the first practical, non-invasive technique for detecting and imaging currents internal to operating integrated circuits (ICs). This technique is based on magnetic force microscopy and was developed under Sandia National Laboratories` LDRD (Laboratory Directed Research and Development) program during FY 93 and FY 94. LDRD funds were also used to explore a related technique, charge force microscopy, for voltage probing of ICs. This report describes the technical work performed under this LDRD as well as the outcomes of the project in terms of publications and awards, intellectual property and licensing, synergistic work, potential future work, hiring ofmore » additional permanent staff, and benefits to DOE`s defense programs (DP).« less

Multimodal freight investment criteria.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-07-01

Literature was reviewed on multi-modal investment criteria for freight projects, examining measures and techniques for quantifying project benefits and costs, as well as ways to describe the economic importance of freight transportation. : A limited ...

LSA: Low-cost Solar Array project

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1978-01-01

Topics discussed include silicon material processing; large-area silicon sheet development; encapsulation materials testing and development; project engineering and operations activities, and manufacturing techniques. The steps taken to integrate these efforts, are described.

Research to Develop Effective Teaching and Management Techniques for Severely Disturbed and Retarded Children. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kauffman, James M.; Birnbrauer, Jay S.

The final report of a project on teaching and management techniques with severely disturbed and/or retarded children presents analysis of single subject research using contingent imitation of the child as an intervention technique. The effects of this technique were examined on the following behaviors: toyplay and reciprocal imitation, self…

Proper projective symmetry in LRS Bianchi type V spacetimes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shabbir, Ghulam; Mahomed, K. S.; Mahomed, F. M.; Moitsheki, R. J.

2018-04-01

In this paper, we investigate proper projective vector fields of locally rotationally symmetric (LRS) Bianchi type V spacetimes using direct integration and algebraic techniques. Despite the non-degeneracy in the Riemann tensor eigenvalues, we classify proper Bianchi type V spacetimes and show that the above spacetimes do not admit proper projective vector fields. Here, in all the cases projective vector fields are Killing vector fields.

Same Planet, Different Worlds: Why Projects Continue to Fail. A Generalist Review of Project Management with Special Reference to Electronic Research Administration

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McCormick, Ian

2006-01-01

Implementation of IT "solutions" in the context of changes to business processes and efficiency is a common trigger for using formalised project management techniques. The trigger may include topical activities such as job evaluation schemes or quality assurance accreditation. This has led to a blurring of the boundary between projects and…

Generation of virtual monochromatic CBCT from dual kV/MV beam projections

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

Li, Hao; Liu, Bo; Yin, Fang-Fang, E-mail: fangfang.yin@duke.edu

Purpose: To develop a novel on-board imaging technique which allows generation of virtual monochromatic (VM) cone-beam CT (CBCT) with a selected energy from combined kilovoltage (kV)/megavoltage (MV) beam projections. Methods: With the current orthogonal kV/MV imaging hardware equipped in modern linear accelerators, both MV projections (from gantry angle of 0°–100°) and kV projections (90°–200°) were acquired as gantry rotated a total of 110°. A selected range of overlap projections between 90° to 100° were then decomposed into two material projections using experimentally determined parameters from orthogonally stacked aluminum and acrylic step-wedges. Given attenuation coefficients of aluminum and acrylic at amore » predetermined energy, one set of VM projections could be synthesized from two corresponding sets of decomposed projections. Two linear functions were generated using projection information at overlap angles to convert kV and MV projections at nonoverlap angles to approximate VM projections for CBCT reconstruction. The contrast-to-noise ratios (CNRs) were calculated for different inserts in VM CBCTs of a CatPhan phantom with various selected energies and compared with those in kV and MV CBCTs. The effect of overlap projection number on CNR was evaluated. Additionally, the effect of beam orientation was studied by scanning the CatPhan sandwiched with two 5 cm solid-water phantoms on both lateral sides and an electronic density phantom with two metal bolt inserts. Results: Proper selection of VM energy [30 and 40 keV for low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polymethylpentene, 2 MeV for Delrin] provided comparable or even better CNR results as compared with kV or MV CBCT. An increased number of overlap kV and MV projection demonstrated only marginal improvements of CNR for different inserts (with the exception of LDPE) and therefore one projection overlap was found to be sufficient for the CatPhan study. It was also evident that the optimal CBCT image quality was achieved when MV beams penetrated through the heavy attenuation direction of the object. Conclusions: A novel technique was developed to generate VM CBCTs from kV/MV projections. This technique has the potential to improve CNR at selected VM energies and to suppress artifacts at appropriate beam orientations.« less

Generation of virtual monochromatic CBCT from dual kV/MV beam projections

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

Li, Hao; Liu, Bo; Yin, Fang-Fang, E-mail: fangfang.yin@duke.edu

2013-12-15

Purpose: To develop a novel on-board imaging technique which allows generation of virtual monochromatic (VM) cone-beam CT (CBCT) with a selected energy from combined kilovoltage (kV)/megavoltage (MV) beam projections. Methods: With the current orthogonal kV/MV imaging hardware equipped in modern linear accelerators, both MV projections (from gantry angle of 0°–100°) and kV projections (90°–200°) were acquired as gantry rotated a total of 110°. A selected range of overlap projections between 90° to 100° were then decomposed into two material projections using experimentally determined parameters from orthogonally stacked aluminum and acrylic step-wedges. Given attenuation coefficients of aluminum and acrylic at amore » predetermined energy, one set of VM projections could be synthesized from two corresponding sets of decomposed projections. Two linear functions were generated using projection information at overlap angles to convert kV and MV projections at nonoverlap angles to approximate VM projections for CBCT reconstruction. The contrast-to-noise ratios (CNRs) were calculated for different inserts in VM CBCTs of a CatPhan phantom with various selected energies and compared with those in kV and MV CBCTs. The effect of overlap projection number on CNR was evaluated. Additionally, the effect of beam orientation was studied by scanning the CatPhan sandwiched with two 5 cm solid-water phantoms on both lateral sides and an electronic density phantom with two metal bolt inserts. Results: Proper selection of VM energy [30 and 40 keV for low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polymethylpentene, 2 MeV for Delrin] provided comparable or even better CNR results as compared with kV or MV CBCT. An increased number of overlap kV and MV projection demonstrated only marginal improvements of CNR for different inserts (with the exception of LDPE) and therefore one projection overlap was found to be sufficient for the CatPhan study. It was also evident that the optimal CBCT image quality was achieved when MV beams penetrated through the heavy attenuation direction of the object. Conclusions: A novel technique was developed to generate VM CBCTs from kV/MV projections. This technique has the potential to improve CNR at selected VM energies and to suppress artifacts at appropriate beam orientations.« less

Comparison of maximum intensity projection and digitally reconstructed radiographic projection for carotid artery stenosis measurement

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

Hyde, Derek E.; Habets, Damiaan F.; Fox, Allan J.

2007-07-15

Digital subtraction angiography is being supplanted by three-dimensional imaging techniques in many clinical applications, leading to extensive use of maximum intensity projection (MIP) images to depict volumetric vascular data. The MIP algorithm produces intensity profiles that are different than conventional angiograms, and can also increase the vessel-to-tissue contrast-to-noise ratio. We evaluated the effect of the MIP algorithm in a clinical application where quantitative vessel measurement is important: internal carotid artery stenosis grading. Three-dimensional computed rotational angiography (CRA) was performed on 26 consecutive symptomatic patients to verify an internal carotid artery stenosis originally found using duplex ultrasound. These volumes of datamore » were visualized using two different postprocessing projection techniques: MIP and digitally reconstructed radiographic (DRR) projection. A DRR is a radiographic image simulating a conventional digitally subtracted angiogram, but it is derived computationally from the same CRA dataset as the MIP. By visualizing a single volume with two different projection techniques, the postprocessing effect of the MIP algorithm is isolated. Vessel measurements were made, according to the NASCET guidelines, and percentage stenosis grades were calculated. The paired t-test was used to determine if the measurement difference between the two techniques was statistically significant. The CRA technique provided an isotropic voxel spacing of 0.38 mm. The MIPs and DRRs had a mean signal-difference-to-noise-ratio of 30:1 and 26:1, respectively. Vessel measurements from MIPs were, on average, 0.17 mm larger than those from DRRs (P<0.0001). The NASCET-type stenosis grades tended to be underestimated on average by 2.4% with the MIP algorithm, although this was not statistically significant (P=0.09). The mean interobserver variability (standard deviation) of both the MIP and DRR images was 0.35 mm. It was concluded that the MIP algorithm slightly increased the apparent dimensions of the arteries, when applied to these intra-arterial CRA images. This subpixel increase was smaller than both the voxel size and interobserver variability, and was therefore not clinically relevant.« less

Improving concrete overlay construction.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-03-01

Several road construction projects involving concrete overlays at the state and county levels in Iowa in 2009 were studied for : construction techniques and methods. The projects that were evaluated consisted of sites in four Iowa counties: Osceola, ...

Techniques for Teaching Projective Assessment.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stagner, Brian H.

1984-01-01

Describes innovative methods for teaching projective assessment in a one semester graduate level clinical psychology course. The course fosters competence in the basics of administration, scoring, and in-depth interpretation of at least one test. (RM)

48 CFR 307.7108 - Statement of work.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... projects frequently lie well beyond the present state of the art and entail procedures and techniques of... objectives of the project and the desired results. (2) Background information. This includes a brief history...

48 CFR 307.7108 - Statement of work.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... projects frequently lie well beyond the present state of the art and entail procedures and techniques of... objectives of the project and the desired results. (2) Background information. This includes a brief history...

48 CFR 307.7108 - Statement of work.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... projects frequently lie well beyond the present state of the art and entail procedures and techniques of... objectives of the project and the desired results. (2) Background information. This includes a brief history...

INcreasing Security and Protection through Infrastructure REsilience: The INSPIRE Project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

D'Antonio, Salvatore; Romano, Luigi; Khelil, Abdelmajid; Suri, Neeraj

The INSPIRE project aims at enhancing the European potential in the field of security by ensuring the protection of critical information infrastructures through (a) the identification of their vulnerabilities and (b) the development of innovative techniques for securing networked process control systems. To increase the resilience of such systems INSPIRE will develop traffic engineering algorithms, diagnostic processes and self-reconfigurable architectures along with recovery techniques. Hence, the core idea of the INSPIRE project is to protect critical information infrastructures by appropriately configuring, managing, and securing the communication network which interconnects the distributed control systems. A working prototype will be implemented as a final demonstrator of selected scenarios. Controls/Communication Experts will support project partners in the validation and demonstration activities. INSPIRE will also contribute to standardization process in order to foster multi-operator interoperability and coordinated strategies for securing lifeline systems.

Major Events Coordinated Security Solutions: The Application of the Project Management Body of Knowledge for Managing a Science and Technology Project

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-02-01

subject matter experts, to analysis of laboratory samples during V2010. Significance: The MECSS project produced more than 195 scientific reports...represents the sum of knowledge related to project management and includes best practises and techniques generally accepted by the project...2011-03 2.2.1 Science Town Science Town is the moniker for a multi-agency, mobile laboratory capability that brings together world

Use Management Techniques in Office Practice

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Holehan, E. Lee

1977-01-01

Notes that authenticity can be added to student work projects in an office practice class by having the teacher assume the role of the office manager or supervisor and putting office management techniques into practice. Ways in which such techniques may be infused into classes are examined. (TA)

Incorporating Computer-Mediated Communication in Project Work

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Musa, Faridah; Mohamed, Maslawati; Mufti, Norlaila; Latiff, Rozmel Abdul; Amin, Maryam Mohamad

2015-01-01

In line with the new trend of using computer-mediated communication (CMC) as an innovative technique in teaching and learning at higher institutions, Facebook as a channel of CMC was employed in carrying out a project work in an Academic Communication Course. For this project, students worked in groups to discuss their work and share information…

The Woodworker's Website: A Project Management Case Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jance, Marsha

2014-01-01

A case study that focuses on building a website for a woodworking business is discussed. Project management and linear programming techniques can be used to determine the time required to complete the website project discussed in the case. This case can be assigned to students in an undergraduate or graduate decision modeling or management science…

Oak Tree Planting Project

Treesearch

Sherryl L. Nives; William D. Tietje; William H. Weitkamp

1991-01-01

An Oak Tree Planting Project was conducted during 1989/90 in San Luis Obispo County by the Integrated Hardwood Range Management Program (IHRMP)/Central Coast. The local media and an IHRMP workshop were used to publicize the Planting Project and give information on the status of oaks (Quercus spp.) in California and oak planting techniques. Outreach...

Boeing--A Case Study Example of Enterprise Project Management from a Learning Organization Perspective.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Szymczak, Conrad C.; Walker, Derek H. T.

2003-01-01

The evolution of the Boeing Company illustrates how to achieve an enterprise project management culture through organizational learning. Project management can be a survival technique for adapting to change as well as a proactive mechanism. An organizational culture that supports commitment and enthusiasm and a knowledge management infrastructure…

Building a Creative Ecosystem: The Young Designers on Location Project

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Davies, Dan; Howe, Alan; Haywood, Susan

2004-01-01

This article reports on findings from a research project designed to explore ways in which creativity can be fostered through interactions between selected children, particular environments, materials, techniques and key adults. The Young Designers on Location (YDoL) project was funded by the National Endowment for Science, Technology and the Arts…

Exploring a Monetary Union among Nations through Active Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Goma, Ophelia D.

2002-01-01

This article presents a classroom project that employs various techniques of active learning including role-playing, collaborative group work and writing. The project explores the recent creation of the European Monetary Union (EMU) with special emphasis on the introduction of the euro. The project assumes that the Americas have begun preliminary…

Final Project Report: Data Locality Enhancement of Dynamic Simulations for Exascale Computing

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

Shen, Xipeng

The goal of this project is to develop a set of techniques and software tools to enhance the matching between memory accesses in dynamic simulations and the prominent features of modern and future manycore systems, alleviating the memory performance issues for exascale computing. In the first three years, the PI and his group have achieves some significant progress towards the goal, producing a set of novel techniques for improving the memory performance and data locality in manycore systems, yielding 18 conference and workshop papers and 4 journal papers and graduating 6 Ph.Ds. This report summarizes the research results of thismore » project through that period.« less

Review on the importance of measurement technique in micromachine technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Umeda, Akira

1996-09-01

In the beginning stage of MITI micromachine project, the committee on the standardization established in Micromachine Center recognized the importance of measurement technique for the promotion and the systemization of the micromachine technology. Micromachine Center is the organizing body for private sectors working in the MITI micromachine project which started in 1991. MITI stands for Ministry of International Trade and Industry in Japan. In order to known the requirements on the measurement technologies, the questionnaire was organized by the measurement working group in the committee. This talk covers the questionnaire and its results, and some research results obtained at National Research Laboratory of Metrology working as a member in the project.

New gravity map of the western Galicia margin: The Spanish exclusive economic zone project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carbó, A.; Muñoz, A.; Druet, M.; Llanes, P.; Álvarez, J.

2004-12-01

Since 1995, the most intensive mapping of the seafloor off the Spanish coast has been carried out in the framework of the Spanish Exclusive Economic Zone Project (ZEEE). The main objectives of this project are to obtain improved multibeam bathymetric cartography of the areas off Spanish coastlines, and to perform a geophysical survey, well-suited with a 10-knot navigation velocity (some techniques requires lower navigation velocity). The geophysical survey includes gravity, geomagnetism, and low-penetration seismic techniques in order to infer the geological structure of the seafloor. Other oceanographic variables such as current, surface salinity, and temperature profiles, can be recorded without compromising this systematic survey effort.

How to Visualize and Communicate Challenges in Climate and Environmental Sciences?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vicari, R.; Schertzer, D. J. M.; Deutsch, J. C.

2014-12-01

The challenges of climate and environmental sciences need a renewed dialogue with a large spectrum of stakeholders, ranging from the general publics to specialists. This requires a better use of sophisticated visualization techniques to both forward the information and to follow the corresponding flow of information. A particular case of interest is the question of resilience to extreme weather events that also relies on increasing awareness of urban communities. This research looks at the development of exploration techniques of unstructured Big Data. Indeed access to information on environmental and climate sciences has hugely increased in terms of variety and quantity, as a consequence of different factors, among others the development of public relations by research institutes and the pervasive role of digital media (Bucchi 2013; Trench 2008). We are left with unthinkable amounts of information from blogs, social networks postings, public speeches, press releases, articles, etc. It is possible now to explore and visualize patterns followed by digital information with the support of automated analysis tools. On the other hand these techniques can provide important insights on how different techniques of visual communication can impact on urban resilience to extreme weather. The selected case studies correspond to several research projects under the umbrella of the Chair "Hydrology for resilient cities" aimed to develop and test new solutions in urban hydrology that will contribute to the resilience of our cities to extreme weather. These research projects - ranging from regional projects (e.g. RadX@IdF), European projects (e.g. Blue Green Dream and RainGain), to worldwide collaborations (e.g. TOMACS) - include awareness raising and capacity building activities aimed to foster cooperation between scientists, professionals, and beneficiaries. This presentation will explore how visualization techniques can be used in the above mentioned projects in order to support outreach activities as well as to illustrate the impact of digital communication on urban resilience.

Introducing Risk Management Techniques Within Project Based Software Engineering Courses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Port, Daniel; Boehm, Barry

2002-03-01

In 1996, USC switched its core two-semester software engineering course from a hypothetical-project, homework-and-exam course based on the Bloom taxonomy of educational objectives (knowledge, comprehension, application, analysis, synthesis, and evaluation). The revised course is a real-client team-project course based on the CRESST model of learning objectives (content understanding, problem solving, collaboration, communication, and self-regulation). We used the CRESST cognitive demands analysis to determine the necessary student skills required for software risk management and the other major project activities, and have been refining the approach over the last 5 years of experience, including revised versions for one-semester undergraduate and graduate project course at Columbia. This paper summarizes our experiences in evolving the risk management aspects of the project course. These have helped us mature more general techniques such as risk-driven specifications, domain-specific simplifier and complicator lists, and the schedule as an independent variable (SAIV) process model. The largely positive results in terms of review of pass / fail rates, client evaluations, product adoption rates, and hiring manager feedback are summarized as well.

Agent-Based Simulations for Project Management

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

White, J. Chris; Sholtes, Robert M.

2011-01-01

Currently, the most common approach used in project planning tools is the Critical Path Method (CPM). While this method was a great improvement over the basic Gantt chart technique being used at the time, it now suffers from three primary flaws: (1) task duration is an input, (2) productivity impacts are not considered , and (3) management corrective actions are not included. Today, computers have exceptional computational power to handle complex simulations of task e)(eculion and project management activities (e.g ., dynamically changing the number of resources assigned to a task when it is behind schedule). Through research under a Department of Defense contract, the author and the ViaSim team have developed a project simulation tool that enables more realistic cost and schedule estimates by using a resource-based model that literally turns the current duration-based CPM approach "on its head." The approach represents a fundamental paradigm shift in estimating projects, managing schedules, and reducing risk through innovative predictive techniques.

Automated track video inspection pilot project.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-09-01

This project had two main objectives. The first was to improve the safety of transit workers, specifically right-of-way safety for rail transit : workers through demonstration of advanced track inspection techniques that limit the inspectors expos...

FHWA Federal-Aid ITS Procurement Regulations and Contracting Options

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1997-10-01

State and local agencies planning to procure Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) projects with Federal highway funds face unique challenges. They must choose appropriate contracting techniques that optimize project quality and cost while meeting...

Computer literacy enhancement in the Teaching Hospital Olomouc. Part I: project management techniques. Short communication.

PubMed

Sedlár, Drahomír; Potomková, Jarmila; Rehorová, Jarmila; Seckár, Pavel; Sukopová, Vera

2003-11-01

Information explosion and globalization make great demands on keeping pace with the new trends in the healthcare sector. The contemporary level of computer and information literacy among most health care professionals in the Teaching Hospital Olomouc (Czech Republic) is not satisfactory for efficient exploitation of modern information technology in diagnostics, therapy and nursing. The present contribution describes the application of two basic problem solving techniques (brainstorming, SWOT analysis) to develop a project aimed at information literacy enhancement.

Hyper-spectrum scanning laser optical tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Lingling; Li, Guiye; Li, Yingchao; Liu, Lina; Liu, Ang; Hu, Xuejuan; Ruan, Shuangchen

2018-02-01

We describe a quantitative fluorescence projection tomography technique which measures the three-dimensional fluorescence spectrum in biomedical samples with size up to several millimeters. This is achieved by acquiring a series of hyperspectral images, by using laser scanning scheme, at different projection angles. We demonstrate that this technique provide a quantitative measure of the fluorescence signal by comparing the spectrum and intensity profile of a fluorescent bead phantom and also demonstrate its application to differentiating the extrinsic label and the autofluorescence in a mouse embryo.

Ballistic Signature Identification System Study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1976-01-01

The first phase of a research project directed toward development of a high speed automatic process to be used to match gun barrel signatures imparted to fired bullets was documented. An optical projection technique has been devised to produce and photograph a planar image of the entire signature, and the phototransparency produced is subjected to analysis using digital Fourier transform techniques. The success of this approach appears to be limited primarily by the accuracy of the photographic step since no significant processing limitations have been encountered.

Contrast adaptive total p-norm variation minimization approach to CT reconstruction for artifact reduction in reduced-view brain perfusion CT

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Chang-Won; Kim, Jong-Hyo

2011-03-01

Perfusion CT (PCT) examinations are getting more frequently used for diagnosis of acute brain diseases such as hemorrhage and infarction, because the functional map images it produces such as regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF), regional cerebral blood volume (rCBV), and mean transit time (MTT) may provide critical information in the emergency work-up of patient care. However, a typical PCT scans the same slices several tens of times after injection of contrast agent, which leads to much increased radiation dose and is inevitability of growing concern for radiation-induced cancer risk. Reducing the number of views in projection in combination of TV minimization reconstruction technique is being regarded as an option for radiation reduction. However, reconstruction artifacts due to insufficient number of X-ray projections become problematic especially when high contrast enhancement signals are present or patient's motion occurred. In this study, we present a novel reconstruction technique using contrast-adaptive TpV minimization that can reduce reconstruction artifacts effectively by using different p-norms in high contrast and low contrast objects. In the proposed method, high contrast components are first reconstructed using thresholded projection data and low p-norm total variation to reflect sparseness in both projection and reconstruction spaces. Next, projection data are modified to contain only low contrast objects by creating projection data of reconstructed high contrast components and subtracting them from original projection data. Then, the low contrast projection data are reconstructed by using relatively high p-norm TV minimization technique, and are combined with the reconstructed high contrast component images to produce final reconstructed images. The proposed algorithm was applied to numerical phantom and a clinical data set of brain PCT exam, and the resultant images were compared with those using filtered back projection (FBP) and conventional TV reconstruction algorithm. Our results show the potential of the proposed algorithm for image quality improvement, which in turn may lead to dose reduction.

Winter bird population studies and project prairie birds for surveying grassland birds

USGS Publications Warehouse

Twedt, D.J.; Hamel, P.B.; Woodrey, M.S.

2008-01-01

We compared 2 survey methods for assessing winter bird communities in temperate grasslands: Winter Bird Population Study surveys are area-searches that have long been used in a variety of habitats whereas Project Prairie Bird surveys employ active-flushing techniques on strip-transects and are intended for use in grasslands. We used both methods to survey birds on 14 herbaceous reforested sites and 9 coastal pine savannas during winter and compared resultant estimates of species richness and relative abundance. These techniques did not yield similar estimates of avian populations. We found Winter Bird Population Studies consistently produced higher estimates of species richness, whereas Project Prairie Birds produced higher estimates of avian abundance for some species. When it is important to identify all species within the winter bird community, Winter Bird Population Studies should be the survey method of choice. If estimates of the abundance of relatively secretive grassland bird species are desired, the use of Project Prairie Birds protocols is warranted. However, we suggest that both survey techniques, as currently employed, are deficient and recommend distance- based survey methods that provide species-specific estimates of detection probabilities be incorporated into these survey methods.

Satellite based Ocean Forecasting, the SOFT project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stemmann, L.; Tintoré, J.; Moneris, S.

2003-04-01

The knowledge of future oceanic conditions would have enormous impact on human marine related areas. For such reasons, a number of international efforts are being carried out to obtain reliable and manageable ocean forecasting systems. Among the possible techniques that can be used to estimate the near future states of the ocean, an ocean forecasting system based on satellite imagery is developped through the Satelitte based Ocean ForecasTing project (SOFT). SOFT, established by the European Commission, considers the development of a forecasting system of the ocean space-time variability based on satellite data by using Artificial Intelligence techniques. This system will be merged with numerical simulation approaches, via assimilation techniques, to get a hybrid SOFT-numerical forecasting system of improved performance. The results of the project will provide efficient forecasting of sea-surface temperature structures, currents, dynamic height, and biological activity associated to chlorophyll fields. All these quantities could give valuable information on the planning and management of human activities in marine environments such as navigation, fisheries, pollution control, or coastal management. A detailed identification of present or new needs and potential end-users concerned by such an operational tool is being performed. The project would study solutions adapted to these specific needs.

Vista goes online: Decision-analytic systems for real-time decision-making in mission control

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barry, Matthew; Horvitz, Eric; Ruokangas, Corinne; Srinivas, Sampath

1994-01-01

The Vista project has centered on the use of decision-theoretic approaches for managing the display of critical information relevant to real-time operations decisions. The Vista-I project originally developed a prototype of these approaches for managing flight control displays in the Space Shuttle Mission Control Center (MCC). The follow-on Vista-II project integrated these approaches in a workstation program which currently is being certified for use in the MCC. To our knowledge, this will be the first application of automated decision-theoretic reasoning techniques for real-time spacecraft operations. We shall describe the development and capabilities of the Vista-II system, and provide an overview of the use of decision-theoretic reasoning techniques to the problems of managing the complexity of flight controller displays. We discuss the relevance of the Vista techniques within the MCC decision-making environment, focusing on the problems of detecting and diagnosing spacecraft electromechanical subsystems component failures with limited information, and the problem of determining what control actions should be taken in high-stakes, time-critical situations in response to a diagnosis performed under uncertainty. Finally, we shall outline our current research directions for follow-on projects.

Students' Preferred Teaching Techniques for Biochemistry in Biomedicine and Medicine Courses

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Novelli, Ethel L.B.; Fernandes, Ana Angelica H.

2007-01-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the students' preferred teaching techniques, such as traditional blackboard, power-point, or slide-projection, for biochemistry discipline in biomedicine and medicine courses from Sao Paulo State University, UNESP, Botucatu, Sao Paulo, Brazil. Preferences for specific topic and teaching techniques were…

Optimizing Basic French Skills Utilizing Multiple Teaching Techniques.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Skala, Carol

This action research project examined the impact of foreign language teaching techniques on the language acquisition and retention of 19 secondary level French I students, focusing on student perceptions of the effectiveness and ease of four teaching techniques: total physical response, total physical response storytelling, literature approach,…

Subjective analysis of energy-management projects

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

Morris, R.

The most successful energy conservation projects always reflect human effort to fine-tune engineering and technological improvements. Subjective analysis is a technique for predicting and measuring human interaction before a project begins. The examples of a subjective analysis for office buildings incorporate evaluative questions that are structured to produce numeric values for computer scoring. Each project would need to develop its own pertinent questions and determine appropriate values for the answers.

Development of a volumetric projection technique for the digital evaluation of field of view.

PubMed

Marshall, Russell; Summerskill, Stephen; Cook, Sharon

2013-01-01

Current regulations for field of view requirements in road vehicles are defined by 2D areas projected on the ground plane. This paper discusses the development of a new software-based volumetric field of view projection tool and its implementation within an existing digital human modelling system. In addition, the exploitation of this new tool is highlighted through its use in a UK Department for Transport funded research project exploring the current concerns with driver vision. Focusing specifically on rearwards visibility in small and medium passenger vehicles, the volumetric approach is shown to provide a number of distinct advantages. The ability to explore multiple projections of both direct vision (through windows) and indirect vision (through mirrors) provides a greater understanding of the field of view environment afforded to the driver whilst still maintaining compatibility with the 2D projections of the regulatory standards. Field of view requirements for drivers of road vehicles are defined by simplified 2D areas projected onto the ground plane. However, driver vision is a complex 3D problem. This paper presents the development of a new software-based 3D volumetric projection technique and its implementation in the evaluation of driver vision in small- and medium-sized passenger vehicles.

Microinterferometric optical phase tomography for measuring small, asymmetric refractive-index differences in the profiles of optical fibers and fiber devices.

PubMed

Bachim, Brent L; Gaylord, Thomas K

2005-01-20

A new technique, microinterferometric optical phase tomography, is introduced for use in measuring small, asymmetric refractive-index differences in the profiles of optical fibers and fiber devices. The method combines microscopy-based fringe-field interferometry with parallel projection-based computed tomography to characterize fiber index profiles. The theory relating interference measurements to the projection set required for tomographic reconstruction is given, and discrete numerical simulations are presented for three test index profiles that establish the technique's ability to characterize fiber with small, asymmetric index differences. An experimental measurement configuration and specific interferometry and tomography practices employed in the technique are discussed.

Structural Acoustic Characteristics of Aircraft and Active Control of Interior Noise

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fuller, C. R.

1998-01-01

The reduction of aircraft cabin sound levels to acceptable values still remains a topic of much research. The use of conventional passive approaches has been extensively studied and implemented. However performance limits of these techniques have been reached. In this project, new techniques for understanding the structural acoustic behavior of aircraft fuselages and the use of this knowledge in developing advanced new control approaches are investigated. A central feature of the project is the Aircraft Fuselage Test Facility at Va Tech which is based around a full scale Cessna Citation III fuselage. The work is divided into two main parts; the first part investigates the use of an inverse technique for identifying dominant fuselage vibrations. The second part studies the development and implementation of active and active-passive techniques for controlling aircraft interior noise.

[Environmental protection techniques used in the federal state of Baden-Württemberg in Germany].

PubMed

Vasilić, Zelimira

2006-09-01

Within the framework of the programme "Partnership for Sustainable Development" The Ministry of Environment of the German Federal State of Baden-Württemberg has come up with a project "Study Visit--Environmental Protection Techniques". It was intended as a three-week study visit for environmental protection experts from Central and Eastern European Countries (CEEC) to learn about the environmental protection techniques used in this federal state. Visits were paid to companies producing, applying or installing plants based on the state-of-the-art environmental protection techniques. The project started in 2005 and will last five years. The first visit to Baden-Württemberg was scheduled for 25 September-14 October 2005 for 12 experts from 12 countries: Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, Slovakia and Ukraine.

High Resolution Image Reconstruction from Projection of Low Resolution Images DIffering in Subpixel Shifts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mareboyana, Manohar; Le Moigne-Stewart, Jacqueline; Bennett, Jerome

2016-01-01

In this paper, we demonstrate a simple algorithm that projects low resolution (LR) images differing in subpixel shifts on a high resolution (HR) also called super resolution (SR) grid. The algorithm is very effective in accuracy as well as time efficiency. A number of spatial interpolation techniques using nearest neighbor, inverse-distance weighted averages, Radial Basis Functions (RBF) etc. used in projection yield comparable results. For best accuracy of reconstructing SR image by a factor of two requires four LR images differing in four independent subpixel shifts. The algorithm has two steps: i) registration of low resolution images and (ii) shifting the low resolution images to align with reference image and projecting them on high resolution grid based on the shifts of each low resolution image using different interpolation techniques. Experiments are conducted by simulating low resolution images by subpixel shifts and subsampling of original high resolution image and the reconstructing the high resolution images from the simulated low resolution images. The results of accuracy of reconstruction are compared by using mean squared error measure between original high resolution image and reconstructed image. The algorithm was tested on remote sensing images and found to outperform previously proposed techniques such as Iterative Back Projection algorithm (IBP), Maximum Likelihood (ML), and Maximum a posterior (MAP) algorithms. The algorithm is robust and is not overly sensitive to the registration inaccuracies.

Manufacturing Demonstration Facility: Roll-to-Roll Processing

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

Datskos, Panos G; Joshi, Pooran C; List III, Frederick Alyious

This Manufacturing Demonstration Facility (MDF)e roll-to-roll processing effort described in this report provided an excellent opportunity to investigate a number of advanced manufacturing approaches to achieve a path for low cost devices and sensors. Critical to this effort is the ability to deposit thin films at low temperatures using nanomaterials derived from nanofermentation. The overarching goal of this project was to develop roll-to-roll manufacturing processes of thin film deposition on low-cost flexible substrates for electronics and sensor applications. This project utilized ORNL s unique Pulse Thermal Processing (PTP) technologies coupled with non-vacuum low temperature deposition techniques, ORNL s clean roommore » facility, slot dye coating, drop casting, spin coating, screen printing and several other equipment including a Dimatix ink jet printer and a large-scale Kyocera ink jet printer. The roll-to-roll processing project had three main tasks: 1) develop and demonstrate zinc-Zn based opto-electronic sensors using low cost nanoparticulate structures manufactured in a related MDF Project using nanofermentation techniques, 2) evaluate the use of silver based conductive inks developed by project partner NovaCentrix for electronic device fabrication, and 3) demonstrate a suite of low cost printed sensors developed using non-vacuum deposition techniques which involved the integration of metal and semiconductor layers to establish a diverse sensor platform technology.« less

Limited angle C-arm tomosynthesis reconstruction algorithms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Malalla, Nuhad A. Y.; Xu, Shiyu; Chen, Ying

2015-03-01

In this paper, C-arm tomosynthesis with digital detector was investigated as a novel three dimensional (3D) imaging technique. Digital tomosythses is an imaging technique to provide 3D information of the object by reconstructing slices passing through the object, based on a series of angular projection views with respect to the object. C-arm tomosynthesis provides two dimensional (2D) X-ray projection images with rotation (-/+20 angular range) of both X-ray source and detector. In this paper, four representative reconstruction algorithms including point by point back projection (BP), filtered back projection (FBP), simultaneous algebraic reconstruction technique (SART) and maximum likelihood expectation maximization (MLEM) were investigated. Dataset of 25 projection views of 3D spherical object that located at center of C-arm imaging space was simulated from 25 angular locations over a total view angle of 40 degrees. With reconstructed images, 3D mesh plot and 2D line profile of normalized pixel intensities on focus reconstruction plane crossing the center of the object were studied with each reconstruction algorithm. Results demonstrated the capability to generate 3D information from limited angle C-arm tomosynthesis. Since C-arm tomosynthesis is relatively compact, portable and can avoid moving patients, it has been investigated for different clinical applications ranging from tumor surgery to interventional radiology. It is very important to evaluate C-arm tomosynthesis for valuable applications.

MERINOVA: Meteorological risks as drivers of environmental innovation in agro-ecosystem management

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gobin, Anne; Oger, Robert; Marlier, Catherine; Van De Vijver, Hans; Vandermeulen, Valerie; Van Huylenbroeck, Guido; Zamani, Sepideh; Curnel, Yannick; Mettepenningen, Evi

2013-04-01

The BELSPO funded project 'MERINOVA' deals with risks associated with extreme weather phenomena and with risks of biological origin such as pests and diseases. The major objectives of the proposed project are to characterise extreme meteorological events, assess the impact on Belgian agro-ecosystems, characterise their vulnerability and resilience to these events, and explore innovative adaptation options to agricultural risk management. The project comprises of five major parts that reflect the chain of risks: (i) Hazard: Assessing the likely frequency and magnitude of extreme meteorological events by means of probability density functions; (ii) Impact: Analysing the potential bio-physical and socio-economic impact of extreme weather events on agro-ecosystems in Belgium using process-based modelling techniques commensurate with the regional scale; (iii) Vulnerability: Identifying the most vulnerable agro-ecosystems using fuzzy multi-criteria and spatial analysis; (iv) Risk Management: Uncovering innovative risk management and adaptation options using actor-network theory and fuzzy cognitive mapping techniques; and, (v) Communication: Communicating to research, policy and practitioner communities using web-based techniques. The different tasks of the MERINOVA project require expertise in several scientific disciplines: meteorology, statistics, spatial database management, agronomy, bio-physical impact modelling, socio-economic modelling, actor-network theory, fuzzy cognitive mapping techniques. These expertises are shared by the four scientific partners who each lead one work package. The MERINOVA project will concentrate on promoting a robust and flexible framework by demonstrating its performance across Belgian agro-ecosystems, and by ensuring its relevance to policy makers and practitioners. Impacts developed from physically based models will not only provide information on the state of the damage at any given time, but also assist in understanding the links between different factors causing damage and determining bio-physical vulnerability. Socio-economic impacts will enlarge the basis for vulnerability mapping, risk management and adaptation options. A strong expert and end-user network will be established to help disseminating and exploiting project results to meet user needs.

Meta-analysis of studies assessing the efficacy of projective techniques in discriminating child sexual abuse.

PubMed

West, M M

1998-11-01

This meta-analysis of 12 studies assesses the efficacy of projective techniques to discriminate between sexually abused children and nonsexually abused children. A literature search was conducted to identify published studies that used projective instruments with sexually abused children. Those studies that reported statistics that allowed for an effect size to be calculated, were then included in the meta-analysis. There were 12 studies that fit the criteria. The projectives reviewed include The Rorschach, The Hand Test, The Thematic Apperception Test (TAT), the Kinetic Family Drawings, Human Figure Drawings, Draw Your Favorite Kind of Day, The Rosebush: A Visualization Strategy, and The House-Tree-Person. The results of this analysis gave an over-all effect size of d = .81, which is a large effect. Six studies included only a norm group of nondistressed, nonabused children with the sexual abuse group. The average effect size was d = .87, which is impressive. Six studies did include a clinical group of distressed nonsexually abused subjects and the effect size lowered to d = .76, which is a medium to large effect. This indicates that projective instruments can discriminate distressed children from nondistressed subjects, quite well. In the studies that included a clinical group of distressed children who were not sexually abused, the lower effect size indicates that the instruments were less able to discriminate the type of distress. This meta-analysis gives evidence that projective techniques have the ability to discriminate between children who have been sexually abused and those who were not abused sexually. However, further research that is designed to include clinical groups of distressed children is needed in order to determine how well the projectives can discriminate the type of distress.

A novel background field removal method for MRI using projection onto dipole fields (PDF).

PubMed

Liu, Tian; Khalidov, Ildar; de Rochefort, Ludovic; Spincemaille, Pascal; Liu, Jing; Tsiouris, A John; Wang, Yi

2011-11-01

For optimal image quality in susceptibility-weighted imaging and accurate quantification of susceptibility, it is necessary to isolate the local field generated by local magnetic sources (such as iron) from the background field that arises from imperfect shimming and variations in magnetic susceptibility of surrounding tissues (including air). Previous background removal techniques have limited effectiveness depending on the accuracy of model assumptions or information input. In this article, we report an observation that the magnetic field for a dipole outside a given region of interest (ROI) is approximately orthogonal to the magnetic field of a dipole inside the ROI. Accordingly, we propose a nonparametric background field removal technique based on projection onto dipole fields (PDF). In this PDF technique, the background field inside an ROI is decomposed into a field originating from dipoles outside the ROI using the projection theorem in Hilbert space. This novel PDF background removal technique was validated on a numerical simulation and a phantom experiment and was applied in human brain imaging, demonstrating substantial improvement in background field removal compared with the commonly used high-pass filtering method. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Underwater 3D Surface Measurement Using Fringe Projection Based Scanning Devices

PubMed Central

Bräuer-Burchardt, Christian; Heinze, Matthias; Schmidt, Ingo; Kühmstedt, Peter; Notni, Gunther

2015-01-01

In this work we show the principle of optical 3D surface measurements based on the fringe projection technique for underwater applications. The challenges of underwater use of this technique are shown and discussed in comparison with the classical application. We describe an extended camera model which takes refraction effects into account as well as a proposal of an effective, low-effort calibration procedure for underwater optical stereo scanners. This calibration technique combines a classical air calibration based on the pinhole model with ray-based modeling and requires only a few underwater recordings of an object of known length and a planar surface. We demonstrate a new underwater 3D scanning device based on the fringe projection technique. It has a weight of about 10 kg and the maximal water depth for application of the scanner is 40 m. It covers an underwater measurement volume of 250 mm × 200 mm × 120 mm. The surface of the measurement objects is captured with a lateral resolution of 150 μm in a third of a second. Calibration evaluation results are presented and examples of first underwater measurements are given. PMID:26703624

Regarding realities: Using photo-based projective techniques to elicit normative and alternative discourses on gender, relationships, and sexuality in Mozambique.

PubMed

Holman, Emily S; Harbour, Catherine K; Azevedo Said, Rosa Valéria; Figueroa, Maria Elena

2016-01-01

This paper argues for the methodological merit of photo-based projective techniques (PT) in formative HIV communication research. We used this technique in Mozambique to study multiple sexual partnerships (MSPs) and the roles of social and gender norms in promoting or discouraging these behaviours. Facilitators used ambiguous photographs and vignettes to ease adult men and women into discussions of sexual risk behaviour and HIV transmission. Visuals upheld a third-person perspective in discussions, enabling participants to safely project their worldviews onto the photographed characters, and indirectly share their attitudes, normative environments, personal and peer experiences, perceived risks and benefits, and theories about motivations for extramarital sex. Visually grounded storylines contained rich detail about the circumstances and interpersonal conversations that contextualise MSP behaviour and norms. The research yielded findings about conflicting social practices of public encouragement and private disapproval. Despite concerns around the verifiability of PTs, the repetition and convergence in the elicited conversations - and confirmation through subsequent campaign design and evaluation - suggest these techniques can reliably elicit information for formative public health and communication research on psychosocial and normative factors.

Ethical dilemmas in medical humanitarian practice: cases for reflection from Médecins Sans Frontières.

PubMed

Sheather, Julian; Shah, Tejshri

2011-03-01

Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is an independent medical humanitarian organisation working in over 70 countries. It has provided medical assistance for over 35 years to populations vulnerable through conflict, disease and inadequate health systems. Medical ethics define the starting point of the relationship between medical staff and patients. The ethics of humanitarian interventions and of research in conflict settings are much debated. However, less is known about the ethical dilemmas faced by medical humanitarian staff in their daily work. Ethical dilemmas can be intensified in humanitarian contexts by insecure environments, lack of optimum care, language barriers, potentially heightened power discrepancies between care providers and patients, differing cultural values and perceptions of patients, communities and medical staff. Time constraints, stressful conditions and lack of familiarity with ethical frameworks can prevent reflection on these dilemmas, as can frustration that such reflection does not necessarily provide instant solutions. Lack of reflection, however, can be distressing for medical practitioners and can reduce the quality of care. Ethical reflection has a central role in MSF, and the organisation uses ethical frameworks to help with clinical and programmatic decisions as well as in deliberations over operational research. We illustrate and discuss some real ethical dilemmas facing MSF teams. Only by sharing and seeking guidance can MSF and similar actors make more thoughtful and appropriate decisions. Our aim in sharing these cases is to invite discussion and dialogue in the wider medical community working in crisis, conflict or with severe resource limitations.

What to do now? How women with breast cancer make fertility preservation decisions.

PubMed

Snyder, Karrie Ann; Tate, Alexandra Lee

2013-07-01

There has been increased attention paid to cancer-related infertility and fertility preservation. However, how cancer patients decide whether or not to pursue fertility preservation has not been fully examined. The data come from 34 interviews with women in the USA diagnosed with breast cancer prior to 40 years of age who contemplated fertility preservation prior to cancer treatment. Fully transcribed interviews were coded through a three-staged inductive process. Three sets of factors that shaped the decision-making process of the respondents regarding fertility preservation treatment options were identified: perceived benefits (e.g. ability to use 'younger' eggs in the future), inhibiting concerns (e.g. success rates) and influential relationships (e.g. physicians, parents and partners). Respondents saw their main fertility preservation decision as choosing whether or not to pursue egg/embryo banking. The decision-making process was complicated and included both health-related and personal considerations, with many respondents reporting a lack of support services for fertility issues. Findings suggest that greater attention needs to be placed on presenting patients with a wider range of options. Those who counsel patients regarding fertility preservation decisions should be aware of the influence of relationship dynamics, broader health care concerns, and fertility histories on these decisions. KEY MESSAGE POINTS: While fertility preservation has garnered greater attention, less is known about how cancer patients make fertility preservation decisions. Despite the range of choices for fertility preservation, respondents identified egg/embryo banking as their primary option. Many factors outside of cancer concerns inhibit and facilitate fertility preservation decisions including fertility history and family relationship dynamics.

What constitutes consent when parents and daughters have different views about having the HPV vaccine: qualitative interviews with stakeholders.

PubMed

Wood, Fiona; Morris, Lucy; Davies, Myfanwy; Elwyn, Glyn

2011-08-01

The UK Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine programme commenced in the autumn of 2008 for year 8 (age 12-13 years) schoolgirls. We examine whether the vaccine should be given when there is a difference of opinion between daughters and parents or guardians. Qualitative study using semi-structured interviews. A sample of 25 stakeholders: 14 professionals involved in the development of the HPV vaccination programme and 11 professionals involved in its implementation. Overriding the parents' wishes was perceived as problematic and could damage the relationship between school and parents. A number of practical problems were raised in relation to establishing whether parents were genuinely against their daughter receiving the vaccine. Although many respondents recognised that the Gillick guidelines were relevant in establishing whether a girl could provide consent herself, they still felt that there were significant problems in establishing whether girls could be assessed as Gillick competent. In some areas school nurses had been advised not to give the vaccine in the absence of parental consent. None of the respondents suggested that a girl should be vaccinated against her consent even if her parents wanted her to have the vaccine. While the Gillick guidelines provide a legal framework to help professionals make judgements about adolescents consenting to medical treatment, in practice there appears to be variable and confused interpretation of this guidance. Improved legal structures, management procedures and professional advice are needed to support those who are assessing competence and establishing consent to vaccinate adolescents in a school setting.

Relative contribution of Prevotella intermedia and Pseudomonas aeruginosa to lung pathology in airways of patients with cystic fibrosis.

PubMed

Ulrich, Martina; Beer, Isabelle; Braitmaier, Peter; Dierkes, Michaela; Kummer, Florian; Krismer, Bernhard; Schumacher, Ulrike; Gräpler-Mainka, Ute; Riethmüller, Joachim; Jensen, Peter Ø; Bjarnsholt, Thomas; Høiby, Niels; Bellon, Gabriel; Döring, Gerd

2010-11-01

Patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) with Pseudomonas aeruginosa lung infections produce endobronchial mucus plugs allowing growth of obligate anaerobes including Prevotella spp. Whether obligate anaerobes contribute to the pathophysiology of CF lung disease is unknown. The virulence of Prevotella intermedia and Ps aeruginosa was investigated in vitro and in mice, antibodies against P intermedia in CF sera were assessed and a culture-independent detection method for P intermedia/P nigrescens in CF sputum was tested. P intermedia reached cell numbers of >10(5)->10(7) colony-forming units (CFU)/ml sputum. The majority of patients with CF (16/17; 94.1%) produced antibodies against two immunoreactive antigens of P intermedia. Culture supernatant fluids, collected from 10(9) P intermedia cells, were more cytotoxic to respiratory epithelial cells in vitro and inflammatory in mouse lungs than respective fluids from anaerobically grown Ps aeruginosa, while fluids from aerobically grown Ps aeruginosa had the highest cytotoxicity and inflammation. Both pathological effects were largely reduced when culture supernatant fluids from 10(7) cells of either species were used. P intermedia cells (∼10(6)CFU/lung) did not induce mortality in the agar beads lung infection mouse model, while Ps aeruginosa cells caused death in 30% of mice due to rapid multiplication. A P intermedia/P nigrescens-specific PNA probe was significantly more sensitive than culture-dependent diagnostic assays to detect these strict anaerobes. Ps aeruginosa and P intermedia become significantly virulent in vitro and in vivo when cell numbers exceed 10(8) CFU/lung.

Voluntary counselling and testing for HIV in a Zambian mining community: serial interviews with people testing negative.

PubMed

Sikasote, Janet; Grant, Liz; Chinn, David J; Macwang'i, Mubiana; Murray, Scott A

2011-08-01

To understand the influence of voluntary counselling and testing (VCT) and an HIV-negative result on subsequent sexual behaviour; and to identify the specific felt needs of those testing negative. Serial interviews, 6 months apart, with people who had tested negative, and three one-off focus group discussions with counsellors. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically. Paired transcripts were analysed longitudinally. Purposively sampled from first attenders for VCT who had tested negative. Four health-facility affiliated VCT centres in two mining towns in the Copperbelt Province of Zambia. Participants in the 42 initial and 31 follow-up interviews understood VCT as 'testing for HIV'. Most participants reported having adopted safer sexual behaviour months before attending VCT. They had already recognised personal susceptibility to HIV infection and reported engaging both emotionally and cognitively with the issues of testing. Ultimately attendance at testing was to know their status in order to regain control of their lives. Unmet post-test support needs were common and included additional information, supportive networks, life-skills training and access to recreational activities. In this population who tested HIV negative the majority said they had made life changes months before attending VCT. Counselling served to consolidate pre-test decisions about risk behaviour. Those testing HIV negative are underserved compared with those testing positive. We recommend that counselling for HIV should be de-linked from testing to encourage earlier attendance for counselling and that clients testing negative should receive more post-test support to help them remain HIV negative.

Surgeons' opinions and practice of informed consent in Nigeria.

PubMed

Ogundiran, Temidayo O; Adebamowo, Clement A

2010-12-01

Informed consent is perhaps more relevant to surgical specialties than to other clinical disciplines. Fundamental to this concept is the provision of relevant information for the patient to make an informed choice about a surgical intervention. The opinions of surgeons in Nigeria about informed consent in their practice were surveyed. A cross-sectional survey of surgeons in Nigeria was undertaken in 2004/5 using self-administered semistructured questionnaires. There were 102 respondents, 85.3% of whom were men and 58.8% were aged 31-40 years. 43.1% were consultants and 54.0% were surgical trainees. 27.4% were in surgical subspecialties, 26.5% in general surgery and 21.6% were obstetricians and gynaecologists. 54.9% agreed that sufficient information is not provided to patients while obtaining their consent for surgical procedures. They listed medicolegal reasons (70.6%), informing patients about benefits, risks and alternatives (64.7%) and hospital policy (50.0%) as some reasons for obtaining consent for surgical procedures. When patients decline to give consent for surgery, 84.3% of them thought that poor communication between surgeons and patients may be contributory. They identified taking a course in bioethics during surgical training and compulsory communication skills course as some ways to improve communication between surgeons and patients. Most Nigerian surgeons seemed to have a good knowledge of the informed consent requirements and process but fall short in practice. There is a need to improve the surgeon-patient relationship in line with modern exigencies to provide interactive environments for fruitful patient communication and involvement.

The impact of genital warts: loss of quality of life and cost of treatment in eight sexual health clinics in the UK.

PubMed

Woodhall, S C; Jit, M; Soldan, K; Kinghorn, G; Gilson, R; Nathan, M; Ross, J D; Lacey, C J N

2011-10-01

To estimate the loss of quality of life and cost of treatment associated with genital warts seen in sexual health clinics. A cross-sectional questionnaire study and case note review of individuals with genital warts, carried out in eight sexual health clinics in England and Northern Ireland. Individuals with genital warts attending the participating clinics were invited to take part in the questionnaire study. 895 participants were recruited. A separate sample of 370 participants who had attended a participating clinic with a first visit for a first or recurrent episode of genital warts between April and June 2007 was included in the case note review. Quality of life was measured using the EQ-5D questionnaire and the cost of an episode of care was derived from the case note review. The weighted mean EQ-5D index score was 0.87 (95% CI 0.85 to 0.89). The weighted mean disutility was 0.056 (95% CI 0.038 to 0.074). The estimated mean loss of quality-adjusted life-years associated with an episode of genital warts was 0.018 (95% CI 0.0079 to 0.031), equivalent to 6.6 days of healthy life lost per episode. The weighted mean cost per episode of care was £94 (95% CI £84 to £104), not including the cost of a sexually transmitted infection screen. Genital warts have a substantial impact on the health service and the individual. This information can be utilised for economic evaluation of human papillomavirus vaccination.

Body as Echoes: Cyber Archiving of Dazu Rock Carvings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, W.-W.

2017-08-01

"Body As Echoes: Cyber Archiving of Dazu Rock Carvings (BAE project in short)" strives to explore the tangible/intangible aspects of digital heritage conservation. Aiming at Dazu Rock Carvings - World Heritage Site of Sichuan Province, BAE project utilizes photogrammetry and digital sculpting technique to investigate digital narrative of cultural heritage conservation. It further provides collaborative opportunities to conduct the high-resolution site survey for scholars and institutions at local authorities. For preserving and making sustainable of the tangible cultural heritage at Dazu Rock Carvings, BAE project cyber-archives the selected niches and the caves at Dazu, and transform them into high-resolution, three-dimensional models. For extending the established results and making the digital resources available to broader audiences, BAE project will further develop interactive info-motion interface and apply the knowledge of digital heritage from BAE project to STEM education. BAE project expects to bridge the platform for archeology, computer graphics, and interactive info-motion design. Digital sculpting, projection mapping, interactive info-motion and VR will be the core techniques to explore the narrative of digital heritage conservation. For further protecting, educating and consolidating "building dwelling thinking" through digital heritage preservation, BAE project helps to preserve the digital humanity, and reach out to museum staffs and academia. By the joint effort of global institutions and local authorities, BAE project will also help to foster and enhance the mutual understanding through intercultural collaborations.

Underwater Photogrammetry, Coded Target and Plenoptic Technology: a Set of Tools for Monitoring Red Coral in Mediterranean Sea in the Framework of the "perfect" Project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Drap, P.; Royer, J. P.; Nawaf, M. M.; Saccone, M.; Merad, D.; López-Sanz, À.; Ledoux, J. B.; Garrabou, J.

2017-02-01

PErfECT "Photogrammetry, gEnetic, Ecology for red coral ConservaTion" is a project leaded by the Laboratoire des Sciences de lInformation et des Systmes (LSIS - UMR 7296 CNRS) from the Aix-Marseille University (France) in collaboration with the Spanish National Agency for Scientific Research (CSIC, Spain). The main objective of the project is to develop innovative Tools for the conservation of the Mediterranean red coral, Corallium rubrum. PErfECT was funded by the Total Fundation. The adaptation of digital photogrammetric techniques for use in submarine is rapidly increasing in recent years. In fact, these techniques are particularly well suited for use in underwater environments. PErfECT developed different photogrammetry tools to enhance the red coral population surveys based in: (i) automatic orientation on coded quadrats, (ii) use of NPR (Non Photo realistic Rendering) techniques, (iii) the calculation of distances between colonies within local populations and finally (iv) the use of plenoptic approaches in underwater conditions.

Projection x-ray topography system at 1-BM x-ray optics test beamline at the advanced photon source

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

Stoupin, Stanislav, E-mail: sstoupin@aps.anl.gov; Liu, Zunping; Trakhtenberg, Emil

2016-07-27

Projection X-ray topography of single crystals is a classic technique for the evaluation of intrinsic crystal quality of large crystals. In this technique a crystal sample and an area detector (e.g., X-ray film) collecting intensity of a chosen crystallographic reflection are translated simultaneously across an X-ray beam collimated in the diffraction scattering plane (e.g., [1, 2]). A bending magnet beamline of a third-generation synchrotron source delivering x-ray beam with a large horizontal divergence, and therefore, a large horizontal beam size at a crystal sample position offers an opportunity to obtain X-ray topographs of large crystalline samples (e.g., 6-inch wafers) inmore » just a few exposures. Here we report projection X-ray topography system implemented recently at 1-BM beamline of the Advanced Photon Source. A selected X-ray topograph of a 6-inch wafer of 4H-SiC illustrates capabilities and limitations of the technique.« less

Lane Transit District "Curb Your Car" project : final report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2001-03-01

Lane Transit District has been active in utilizing transportation demand management techniques to encourage use of alternatives to the single occupant vehicle. In 1993, a Curb Your Car project indicated that participating employees use of al...

Lane Transit District "Curb Your Car" Project : final report

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2001-03-01

Lane Transit District has been active in utilizing transportation demand management techniques to encourage use of alternatives to the single occupant vehicle. In 1993, a Curb Your Car project indicated that participating employees' use of alternativ...

Priority technique for general aviation airport investments in Tennessee

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1999-01-01

One issue state departments of transportation must address is the allocation of funds among competing general aviation airport projects. For example, the Tennessee Aeronautics Division administers an annual program for funding projects at airports th...

Apparel Merchandising Students Learn Customer Service Strategies while Conducting Research.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Paulins, V, Ann

2000-01-01

Apparel merchandising students participated in a cooperative research project in which they observed customer service techniques by posing as customers in retail stores. The project taught research processes, collaboration, and principles of customer service. (SK)

Integrating Agronomic Principles with Management Experience in Introductory Agronomy.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Vorst, J. J.

1989-01-01

Explains the use of a cropping systems project to teach agronomic principles and crop management techniques, and to enhance communication skills. Provides a sample progress report instructions sheet which was used for the project. (Author/RT)

World Energy Projection System Plus Model Documentation: Coal Module

EIA Publications

2011-01-01

This report documents the objectives, analytical approach and development of the World Energy Projection System Plus (WEPS ) Coal Model. It also catalogues and describes critical assumptions, computational methodology, parameter estimation techniques, and model source code.

World Energy Projection System Plus Model Documentation: Transportation Module

EIA Publications

2017-01-01

This report documents the objectives, analytical approach and development of the World Energy Projection System Plus (WEPS ) International Transportation model. It also catalogues and describes critical assumptions, computational methodology, parameter estimation techniques, and model source code.

World Energy Projection System Plus Model Documentation: Residential Module

EIA Publications

2016-01-01

This report documents the objectives, analytical approach and development of the World Energy Projection System Plus (WEPS ) Residential Model. It also catalogues and describes critical assumptions, computational methodology, parameter estimation techniques, and model source code.

World Energy Projection System Plus Model Documentation: Refinery Module

EIA Publications

2016-01-01

This report documents the objectives, analytical approach and development of the World Energy Projection System Plus (WEPS ) Refinery Model. It also catalogues and describes critical assumptions, computational methodology, parameter estimation techniques, and model source code.

World Energy Projection System Plus Model Documentation: Main Module

EIA Publications

2016-01-01

This report documents the objectives, analytical approach and development of the World Energy Projection System Plus (WEPS ) Main Model. It also catalogues and describes critical assumptions, computational methodology, parameter estimation techniques, and model source code.

World Energy Projection System Plus Model Documentation: Electricity Module

EIA Publications

2017-01-01

This report documents the objectives, analytical approach and development of the World Energy Projection System Plus (WEPS ) World Electricity Model. It also catalogues and describes critical assumptions, computational methodology, parameter estimation techniques, and model source code.

Estimating 4D CBCT from prior information and extremely limited angle projections using structural PCA and weighted free-form deformation for lung radiotherapy

PubMed Central

Harris, Wendy; Zhang, You; Yin, Fang-Fang; Ren, Lei

2017-01-01

Purpose To investigate the feasibility of using structural-based principal component analysis (PCA) motion-modeling and weighted free-form deformation to estimate on-board 4D-CBCT using prior information and extremely limited angle projections for potential 4D target verification of lung radiotherapy. Methods A technique for lung 4D-CBCT reconstruction has been previously developed using a deformation field map (DFM)-based strategy. In the previous method, each phase of the 4D-CBCT was generated by deforming a prior CT volume. The DFM was solved by a motion-model extracted by global PCA and free-form deformation (GMM-FD) technique, using a data fidelity constraint and deformation energy minimization. In this study, a new structural-PCA method was developed to build a structural motion-model (SMM) by accounting for potential relative motion pattern changes between different anatomical structures from simulation to treatment. The motion model extracted from planning 4DCT was divided into two structures: tumor and body excluding tumor, and the parameters of both structures were optimized together. Weighted free-form deformation (WFD) was employed afterwards to introduce flexibility in adjusting the weightings of different structures in the data fidelity constraint based on clinical interests. XCAT (computerized patient model) simulation with a 30 mm diameter lesion was simulated with various anatomical and respirational changes from planning 4D-CT to onboard volume to evaluate the method. The estimation accuracy was evaluated by the Volume-Percent-Difference (VPD)/Center-of-Mass-Shift (COMS) between lesions in the estimated and “ground-truth” on board 4D-CBCT. Different onboard projection acquisition scenarios and projection noise levels were simulated to investigate their effects on the estimation accuracy. The method was also evaluated against 3 lung patients. Results The SMM-WFD method achieved substantially better accuracy than the GMM-FD method for CBCT estimation using extremely small scan angles or projections. Using orthogonal 15° scanning angles, the VPD/COMS were 3.47±2.94% and 0.23±0.22mm for SMM-WFD and 25.23±19.01% and 2.58±2.54mm for GMM-FD among all 8 XCAT scenarios. Compared to GMM-FD, SMM-WFD was more robust against reduction of the scanning angles down to orthogonal 10° with VPD/COMS of 6.21±5.61% and 0.39±0.49mm, and more robust against reduction of projection numbers down to only 8 projections in total for both orthogonal-view 30° and orthogonal-view 15° scan angles. SMM-WFD method was also more robust than the GMM-FD method against increasing levels of noise in the projection images. Additionally, the SMM-WFD technique provided better tumor estimation for all three lung patients compared to the GMM-FD technique. Conclusion Compared to the GMM-FD technique, the SMM-WFD technique can substantially improve the 4D-CBCT estimation accuracy using extremely small scan angles and low number of projections to provide fast low dose 4D target verification. PMID:28079267

A toolbox for developing bioinformatics software

PubMed Central

Potrzebowski, Wojciech; Puton, Tomasz; Rother, Magdalena; Wywial, Ewa; Bujnicki, Janusz M.

2012-01-01

Creating useful software is a major activity of many scientists, including bioinformaticians. Nevertheless, software development in an academic setting is often unsystematic, which can lead to problems associated with maintenance and long-term availibility. Unfortunately, well-documented software development methodology is difficult to adopt, and technical measures that directly improve bioinformatic programming have not been described comprehensively. We have examined 22 software projects and have identified a set of practices for software development in an academic environment. We found them useful to plan a project, support the involvement of experts (e.g. experimentalists), and to promote higher quality and maintainability of the resulting programs. This article describes 12 techniques that facilitate a quick start into software engineering. We describe 3 of the 22 projects in detail and give many examples to illustrate the usage of particular techniques. We expect this toolbox to be useful for many bioinformatics programming projects and to the training of scientific programmers. PMID:21803787

In-line phase contrast micro-CT reconstruction for biomedical specimens.

PubMed

Fu, Jian; Tan, Renbo

2014-01-01

X-ray phase contrast micro computed tomography (micro-CT) can non-destructively provide the internal structure information of soft tissues and low atomic number materials. It has become an invaluable analysis tool for biomedical specimens. Here an in-line phase contrast micro-CT reconstruction technique is reported, which consists of a projection extraction method and the conventional filter back-projection (FBP) reconstruction algorithm. The projection extraction is implemented by applying the Fourier transform to the forward projections of in-line phase contrast micro-CT. This work comprises a numerical study of the method and its experimental verification using a biomedical specimen dataset measured at an X-ray tube source micro-CT setup. The numerical and experimental results demonstrate that the presented technique can improve the imaging contrast of biomedical specimens. It will be of interest for a wide range of in-line phase contrast micro-CT applications in medicine and biology.

Deformation measurement for a rotating deformable lap based on inverse fringe projection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liao, Min; Zhang, Qican

2015-03-01

The active deformable lap (also namely stressed lap) is an efficient polishing tool in optical manufacturing. To measure the dynamic deformation caused by outside force on a deformable lap is important and helpful to the opticians to ensure the performance of a deformable lap as expected. In this paper, a manual deformable lap was designed to simulate the dynamic deformation of an active stressed lap, and a measurement system was developed based on inverse projected fringe technique to restore the 3D shape. A redesigned inverse fringe has been projected onto the surface of the measured lap, and the deformations of the tested lap become much obvious and can be easily and quickly evaluated by Fourier fringe analysis. Compared with the conventional projection, this technique is more obvious, and it should be a promising one in the deformation measurement of the active stressed lap in optical manufacturing.

An Instructional Feedback Technique for Teaching Project Management Tools Aligned With PMBOK

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Goncalves, Rafael Queiroz; von Wangenheim, Christiane A. Gresse; Hauck, Jean C. R.; Zanella, Andreia

2018-01-01

Contribution: An approach is presented to provide contextualized feedback for students using a project management (PM) tool. This approach covers the ten PM knowledge areas, guiding students through the planning of software projects. Background: Because software PM is unfeasible without the support of a PM tool there is a growing demand that these…

An Instructional Feedback Technique for Teaching Project Management Tools Aligned with PMBOK

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gonçalves, Rafael Queiroz; von Wangenheim, Christiane Gresse; Hauck, Jean Carlo Rossa; Petri, Giani

2017-01-01

The management of contemporary software projects is unfeasible without the support of a Project Management (PM) tool. In order to enable the adoption of PM tools in practice, teaching its usage is important as part of computer education. Aiming at teaching PM tools, several approaches have been proposed, such as the development of educational PM…

Do Projects Really End Late? On the Shortcomings of the Classical Scheduling Techniques

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ballesteros-Pérez, Pablo; Larsen, Graeme D.; González-Cruz, Maria C.

2018-01-01

Many engineering projects fail to meet their planned completion dates in real practice. This is a recurrent topic in the project management literature, with poor planning and controlling practices frequently cited among the most significant causes of delays. Unfortunately, hardly any attention has been paid to the fact that the classical…

Research at USAFA 2010

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-01-01

optical surveillance program for Space Situational Awareness (SSA), cadet First class Sean harte’s break-through repair technique for enamel ...also undertaken several collaborative projects to include Air Force Research Lab projects such as crack growth studies and a c-130 center Wingbox...research. the research projects involved in the collaboration include energy harvesting, corrosion and stress corrosion cracking of aging aircraft

The Reflective Macintosh: A Computer-Assisted Approach to Understanding and Improving Managerial Practice. Project Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kerchner, Charles; And Others

The early stages of a microcomputer-based project to integrate managerial knowledge and practice are described in this report. Analysis of the problem-framing process that effective principals use to reduce complex problems into more manageable ones forms the basis of the project. Three cognitive-mapping techniques are used to understand the…

Statistical Process Control. A Summary. FEU/PICKUP Project Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Owen, M.; Clark, I.

A project was conducted to develop a curriculum and training materials to be used in training industrial operatives in statistical process control (SPC) techniques. During the first phase of the project, questionnaires were sent to 685 companies (215 of which responded) to determine where SPC was being used, what type of SPC firms needed, and how…

Computer Writing Skills for Limited English Proficiency Students: Project COMPUGRAFIA.LEP 1988-89. OREA Evaluation Section Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Berney, Tomi D.; Keyes, Jose L.

The Computer Writing Skills for Limited English Proficient Students (Project COMPUGRAFIA.LEP), bilingual special education classes totalling 375 Spanish-speaking students at 10 elementary schools in the Bronx, is evaluated. The project proposed to assist site teachers in developing appropriate lesson plans and effective teaching techniques and…

A Study on Evaluation of the Biology Projects Submitted to the TUBITAK Secondary Education Research Projects Contest from the Bursa Region

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zeren Özer, Dilek; Güngör, Sema Nur; Özkan, Muhlis

2015-01-01

This study evaluates, through the employment of scientific methods and techniques, a total of 107 Biology projects submitted by secondary education students to the Bursa Region Coordinatorship of TUBITAK (a region which encompasses the municipalities of Afyonkarahisar, Balikesir, Bilecik, Canakkale, Eskisehir, Kutahya, and Yalova). The projects…

Projective Test Use among School Psychologists: A Survey and Critique

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hojnoski, Robin L.; Morrison, Rhonda; Brown, Melissa; Matthews, William J.

2006-01-01

The use of projective techniques by school psychologists has been a point of interest and debate, with a number of survey studies documenting usage. The purpose of this study is to update the status of projective use among school psychologists, with a specific focus on their use in the social emotional assessment of children in schools. In…

Database Design Learning: A Project-Based Approach Organized through a Course Management System

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dominguez, Cesar; Jaime, Arturo

2010-01-01

This paper describes an active method for database design learning through practical tasks development by student teams in a face-to-face course. This method integrates project-based learning, and project management techniques and tools. Some scaffolding is provided at the beginning that forms a skeleton that adapts to a great variety of…

Techniques for virtual lung nodule insertion: volumetric and morphometric comparison of projection-based and image-based methods for quantitative CT

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Robins, Marthony; Solomon, Justin; Sahbaee, Pooyan; Sedlmair, Martin; Choudhury, Kingshuk Roy; Pezeshk, Aria; Sahiner, Berkman; Samei, Ehsan

2017-09-01

Virtual nodule insertion paves the way towards the development of standardized databases of hybrid CT images with known lesions. The purpose of this study was to assess three methods (an established and two newly developed techniques) for inserting virtual lung nodules into CT images. Assessment was done by comparing virtual nodule volume and shape to the CT-derived volume and shape of synthetic nodules. 24 synthetic nodules (three sizes, four morphologies, two repeats) were physically inserted into the lung cavity of an anthropomorphic chest phantom (KYOTO KAGAKU). The phantom was imaged with and without nodules on a commercial CT scanner (SOMATOM Definition Flash, Siemens) using a standard thoracic CT protocol at two dose levels (1.4 and 22 mGy CTDIvol). Raw projection data were saved and reconstructed with filtered back-projection and sinogram affirmed iterative reconstruction (SAFIRE, strength 5) at 0.6 mm slice thickness. Corresponding 3D idealized, virtual nodule models were co-registered with the CT images to determine each nodule’s location and orientation. Virtual nodules were voxelized, partial volume corrected, and inserted into nodule-free CT data (accounting for system imaging physics) using two methods: projection-based Technique A, and image-based Technique B. Also a third Technique C based on cropping a region of interest from the acquired image of the real nodule and blending it into the nodule-free image was tested. Nodule volumes were measured using a commercial segmentation tool (iNtuition, TeraRecon, Inc.) and deformation was assessed using the Hausdorff distance. Nodule volumes and deformations were compared between the idealized, CT-derived and virtual nodules using a linear mixed effects regression model which utilized the mean, standard deviation, and coefficient of variation (Mea{{n}RHD} , ST{{D}RHD} and C{{V}RHD}{) }~ of the regional Hausdorff distance. Overall, there was a close concordance between the volumes of the CT-derived and virtual nodules. Percent differences between them were less than 3% for all insertion techniques and were not statistically significant in most cases. Correlation coefficient values were greater than 0.97. The deformation according to the Hausdorff distance was also similar between the CT-derived and virtual nodules with minimal statistical significance in the (C{{V}RHD} ) for Techniques A, B, and C. This study shows that both projection-based and image-based nodule insertion techniques yield realistic nodule renderings with statistical similarity to the synthetic nodules with respect to nodule volume and deformation. These techniques could be used to create a database of hybrid CT images containing nodules of known size, location and morphology.

Techniques for virtual lung nodule insertion: volumetric and morphometric comparison of projection-based and image-based methods for quantitative CT

PubMed Central

Robins, Marthony; Solomon, Justin; Sahbaee, Pooyan; Sedlmair, Martin; Choudhury, Kingshuk Roy; Pezeshk, Aria; Sahiner, Berkman; Samei, Ehsan

2017-01-01

Virtual nodule insertion paves the way towards the development of standardized databases of hybrid CT images with known lesions. The purpose of this study was to assess three methods (an established and two newly developed techniques) for inserting virtual lung nodules into CT images. Assessment was done by comparing virtual nodule volume and shape to the CT-derived volume and shape of synthetic nodules. 24 synthetic nodules (three sizes, four morphologies, two repeats) were physically inserted into the lung cavity of an anthropomorphic chest phantom (KYOTO KAGAKU). The phantom was imaged with and without nodules on a commercial CT scanner (SOMATOM Definition Flash, Siemens) using a standard thoracic CT protocol at two dose levels (1.4 and 22 mGy CTDIvol). Raw projection data were saved and reconstructed with filtered back-projection and sinogram affirmed iterative reconstruction (SAFIRE, strength 5) at 0.6 mm slice thickness. Corresponding 3D idealized, virtual nodule models were co-registered with the CT images to determine each nodule’s location and orientation. Virtual nodules were voxelized, partial volume corrected, and inserted into nodule-free CT data (accounting for system imaging physics) using two methods: projection-based Technique A, and image-based Technique B. Also a third Technique C based on cropping a region of interest from the acquired image of the real nodule and blending it into the nodule-free image was tested. Nodule volumes were measured using a commercial segmentation tool (iNtuition, TeraRecon, Inc.) and deformation was assessed using the Hausdorff distance. Nodule volumes and deformations were compared between the idealized, CT-derived and virtual nodules using a linear mixed effects regression model which utilized the mean, standard deviation, and coefficient of variation (MeanRHD, and STDRHD CVRHD) of the regional Hausdorff distance. Overall, there was a close concordance between the volumes of the CT-derived and virtual nodules. Percent differences between them were less than 3% for all insertion techniques and were not statistically significant in most cases. Correlation coefficient values were greater than 0.97. The deformation according to the Hausdorff distance was also similar between the CT-derived and virtual nodules with minimal statistical significance in the (CVRHD) for Techniques A, B, and C. This study shows that both projection-based and image-based nodule insertion techniques yield realistic nodule renderings with statistical similarity to the synthetic nodules with respect to nodule volume and deformation. These techniques could be used to create a database of hybrid CT images containing nodules of known size, location and morphology. PMID:28786399

Low dose tomographic fluoroscopy: 4D intervention guidance with running prior

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

Flach, Barbara; Kuntz, Jan; Brehm, Marcus

Purpose: Today's standard imaging technique in interventional radiology is the single- or biplane x-ray fluoroscopy which delivers 2D projection images as a function of time (2D+T). This state-of-the-art technology, however, suffers from its projective nature and is limited by the superposition of the patient's anatomy. Temporally resolved tomographic volumes (3D+T) would significantly improve the visualization of complex structures. A continuous tomographic data acquisition, if carried out with today's technology, would yield an excessive patient dose. Recently the authors proposed a method that enables tomographic fluoroscopy at the same dose level as projective fluoroscopy which means that if scanning time ofmore » an intervention guided by projective fluoroscopy is the same as that of an intervention guided by tomographic fluoroscopy, almost the same dose is administered to the patient. The purpose of this work is to extend authors' previous work and allow for patient motion during the intervention.Methods: The authors propose the running prior technique for adaptation of a prior image. This adaptation is realized by a combination of registration and projection replacement. In a first step the prior is deformed to the current position via affine and deformable registration. Then the information from outdated projections is replaced by newly acquired projections using forward and backprojection steps. The thus adapted volume is the running prior. The proposed method is validated by simulated as well as measured data. To investigate motion during intervention a moving head phantom was simulated. Real in vivo data of a pig are acquired by a prototype CT system consisting of a flat detector and a continuously rotating clinical gantry.Results: With the running prior technique it is possible to correct for motion without additional dose. For an application in intervention guidance both steps of the running prior technique, registration and replacement, are necessary. Reconstructed volumes based on the running prior show high image quality without introducing new artifacts and the interventional materials are displayed at the correct position.Conclusions: The running prior improves the robustness of low dose 3D+T intervention guidance toward intended or unintended patient motion.« less

SU-E-J-26: A Novel Technique for Markerless Self-Sorted 4D-CBCT Using Patient Motion Modeling: A Feasibility Study

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

Zhang, L; Zhang, Y; Harris, W

2015-06-15

Purpose: To develop an automatic markerless 4D-CBCT projection sorting technique by using a patient respiratory motion model extracted from the planning 4D-CT images. Methods: Each phase of onboard 4D-CBCT is considered as a deformation of one phase of the prior planning 4D-CT. The deformation field map (DFM) is represented as a linear combination of three major deformation patterns extracted from the planning 4D-CT using principle component analysis (PCA). The coefficients of the PCA deformation patterns are solved by matching the digitally reconstructed radiograph (DRR) of the deformed volume to the onboard projection acquired. The PCA coefficients are solved for eachmore » single projection, and are used for phase sorting. Projections at the peaks of the Z direction coefficient are sorted as phase 1 and other projections are assigned into 10 phase bins by dividing phases equally between peaks. The 4D digital extended-cardiac-torso (XCAT) phantom was used to evaluate the proposed technique. Three scenarios were simulated, with different tumor motion amplitude (3cm to 2cm), tumor spatial shift (8mm SI), and tumor body motion phase shift (2 phases) from prior to on-board images. Projections were simulated over 180 degree scan-angle for the 4D-XCAT. The percentage of accurately binned projections across entire dataset was calculated to represent the phase sorting accuracy. Results: With a changed tumor motion amplitude from 3cm to 2cm, markerless phase sorting accuracy was 100%. With a tumor phase shift of 2 phases w.r.t. body motion, the phase sorting accuracy was 100%. With a tumor spatial shift of 8mm in SI direction, phase sorting accuracy was 86.1%. Conclusion: The XCAT phantom simulation results demonstrated that it is feasible to use prior knowledge and motion modeling technique to achieve markerless 4D-CBCT phase sorting. National Institutes of Health Grant No. R01-CA184173 Varian Medical System.« less

Development of Techniques for Spent Fuel Assay – Differential Dieaway Final Report

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

Swinhoe, Martyn Thomas; Goodsell, Alison; Ianakiev, Kiril Dimitrov

This report summarizes the work done under a DNDO R&D funded project on the development of the differential dieaway method to measure plutonium in spent fuel. There are large amounts of plutonium that are contained in spent fuel assemblies, and currently there is no way to make quantitative non-destructive assay. This has led NA24 under the Next Generation Safeguards Initiative (NGSI) to establish a multi-year program to investigate, develop and implement measurement techniques for spent fuel. The techniques which are being experimentally tested by the existing NGSI project do not include any pulsed neutron active techniques. The present work coversmore » the active neutron differential dieaway technique and has advanced the state of knowledge of this technique as well as produced a design for a practical active neutron interrogation instrument for spent fuel. Monte Carlo results from the NGSI effort show that much higher accuracy (1-2%) for the Pu content in spent fuel assemblies can be obtained with active neutron interrogation techniques than passive techniques, and this would allow their use for nuclear material accountancy independently of any information from the operator. The main purpose of this work was to develop an active neutron interrogation technique for spent nuclear fuel.« less

Physical Limitations in Lithography for Microelectronics.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Flavin, P. G.

1981-01-01

Describes techniques being used in the production of microelectronics kits which have replaced traditional optical lithography, including contact and optical projection printing, and X-ray and electron beam lithography. Also includes limitations of each technique described. (SK)

Refinement of Methods for Evaluation of Near-Hypersingular Integrals in BEM Formulations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fink, Patricia W.; Khayat, Michael A.; Wilton, Donald R.

2006-01-01

In this paper, we present advances in singularity cancellation techniques applied to integrals in BEM formulations that are nearly hypersingular. Significant advances have been made recently in singularity cancellation techniques applied to 1 R type kernels [M. Khayat, D. Wilton, IEEE Trans. Antennas and Prop., 53, pp. 3180-3190, 2005], as well as to the gradients of these kernels [P. Fink, D. Wilton, and M. Khayat, Proc. ICEAA, pp. 861-864, Torino, Italy, 2005] on curved subdomains. In these approaches, the source triangle is divided into three tangent subtriangles with a common vertex at the normal projection of the observation point onto the source element or the extended surface containing it. The geometry of a typical tangent subtriangle and its local rectangular coordinate system with origin at the projected observation point is shown in Fig. 1. Whereas singularity cancellation techniques for 1 R type kernels are now nearing maturity, the efficient handling of near-hypersingular kernels still needs attention. For example, in the gradient reference above, techniques are presented for computing the normal component of the gradient relative to the plane containing the tangent subtriangle. These techniques, summarized in the transformations in Table 1, are applied at the sub-triangle level and correspond particularly to the case in which the normal projection of the observation point lies within the boundary of the source element. They are found to be highly efficient as z approaches zero. Here, we extend the approach to cover two instances not previously addressed. First, we consider the case in which the normal projection of the observation point lies external to the source element. For such cases, we find that simple modifications to the transformations of Table 1 permit significant savings in computational cost. Second, we present techniques that permit accurate computation of the tangential components of the gradient; i.e., tangent to the plane containing the source element.

A comparative study of linear and nonlinear anomaly detectors for hyperspectral imagery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goldberg, Hirsh; Nasrabadi, Nasser M.

2007-04-01

In this paper we implement various linear and nonlinear subspace-based anomaly detectors for hyperspectral imagery. First, a dual window technique is used to separate the local area around each pixel into two regions - an inner-window region (IWR) and an outer-window region (OWR). Pixel spectra from each region are projected onto a subspace which is defined by projection bases that can be generated in several ways. Here we use three common pattern classification techniques (Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Fisher Linear Discriminant (FLD) Analysis, and the Eigenspace Separation Transform (EST)) to generate projection vectors. In addition to these three algorithms, the well-known Reed-Xiaoli (RX) anomaly detector is also implemented. Each of the four linear methods is then implicitly defined in a high- (possibly infinite-) dimensional feature space by using a nonlinear mapping associated with a kernel function. Using a common machine-learning technique known as the kernel trick all dot products in the feature space are replaced with a Mercer kernel function defined in terms of the original input data space. To determine how anomalous a given pixel is, we then project the current test pixel spectra and the spectral mean vector of the OWR onto the linear and nonlinear projection vectors in order to exploit the statistical differences between the IWR and OWR pixels. Anomalies are detected if the separation of the projection of the current test pixel spectra and the OWR mean spectra are greater than a certain threshold. Comparisons are made using receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves.

Identification of shareholder ethics and responsibilities in online reverse auctions for construction projects.

PubMed

Hatipkarasulu, Yilmaz; Gill, James H

2004-04-01

The increasing number of companies providing internet services and auction tools helped popularize the online reverse auction trend for purchasing commodities and services in the last decade. As a result, a number of owners, both public and private, accepted the online reverse auctions as the bidding technique for their construction projects. Owners, while trying to minimize their costs for construction projects, are also required to address their ethical responsibilities to the shareholders. In the case of online reverse auctions for construction projects, the ethical issues involved in the bidding technique directly reflects on the owner's ethical and social responsibilities to their shareholders. The goal of this paper is to identify the shareholder ethics and responsibilities in online reverse auctions for construction projects by analyzing the ethical issues for the parties involved in the process. The identification of the ethical issues and responsibilities requires clear definition and understanding of professional ethics and the roles of the involved parties. In this paper, first, the concept of professional ethics and social responsibility is described in a general form. To illustrate the ethical issues and responsibilities, a sample case of bidding for a construction project using online reverse auction techniques is presented in which the shareholders were actively involved in questioning the ethical issues. The issues involved in the bidding process and their reflection on the shareholder responsibilities are described and analyzed for each stage of the process. A brief discussion of the overall process is also included to address the general ethical issues involved in online reverse auctions.

Scheduling of House Development Projects with CPM and PERT Method for Time Efficiency (Case Study: House Type 36)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kholil, Muhammad; Nurul Alfa, Bonitasari; Hariadi, Madjumsyah

2018-04-01

Network planning is one of the management techniques used to plan and control the implementation of a project, which shows the relationship between activities. The objective of this research is to arrange network planning on house construction project on CV. XYZ and to know the role of network planning in increasing the efficiency of time so that can be obtained the optimal project completion period. This research uses descriptive method, where the data collected by direct observation to the company, interview, and literature study. The result of this research is optimal time planning in project work. Based on the results of the research, it can be concluded that the use of the both methods in scheduling of house construction project gives very significant effect on the completion time of the project. The company’s CPM (Critical Path Method) method can complete the project with 131 days, PERT (Program Evaluation Review and Technique) Method takes 136 days. Based on PERT calculation obtained Z = -0.66 or 0,2546 (from normal distribution table), and also obtained the value of probability or probability is 74,54%. This means that the possibility of house construction project activities can be completed on time is high enough. While without using both methods the project completion time takes 173 days. So using the CPM method, the company can save time up to 42 days and has time efficiency by using network planning.

External quality mechanisms for health care: summary of the ExPeRT project on visitatie, accreditation, EFQM and ISO assessment in European Union countries. External Peer Review Techniques. European Foundation for Quality Management. International Organization for Standardization.

PubMed

Shaw, C D

2000-06-01

This paper is a summary of the operation, findings and conclusions of a European Union project on external peer review techniques, termed 'ExPeRT', to research the scope, mechanisms and use of external quality mechanisms in the improvement of health care. Many of the themes outlined are described in detail in other papers that have been prepared specifically for this issue of The International Journal for Quality in Health Care. Although the emphasis of this project and of this issue of the Journal is on Europe, the conclusions are more widely relevant.

Optimisation of Critical Infrastructure Protection: The SiVe Project on Airport Security

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Breiing, Marcus; Cole, Mara; D'Avanzo, John; Geiger, Gebhard; Goldner, Sascha; Kuhlmann, Andreas; Lorenz, Claudia; Papproth, Alf; Petzel, Erhard; Schwetje, Oliver

This paper outlines the scientific goals, ongoing work and first results of the SiVe research project on critical infrastructure security. The methodology is generic while pilot studies are chosen from airport security. The outline proceeds in three major steps, (1) building a threat scenario, (2) development of simulation models as scenario refinements, and (3) assessment of alternatives. Advanced techniques of systems analysis and simulation are employed to model relevant airport structures and processes as well as offences. Computer experiments are carried out to compare and optimise alternative solutions. The optimality analyses draw on approaches to quantitative risk assessment recently developed in the operational sciences. To exploit the advantages of the various techniques, an integrated simulation workbench is build up in the project.

A research project-based and self-determined teaching system of molecular biology techniques for undergraduates.

PubMed

Zhang, Shuping

2008-05-01

Molecular biology techniques play a very important role in understanding the biological activity. Students who major in biology should know not only how to perform experiments, but also the reasons for performing them. Having the concept of conducting research by integrating various techniques is especially important. This paper introduces a research project-based and self-determined teaching system of molecular biology techniques for undergraduates. Its aim is to create an environment mimicking real research programs and to help students build up confidence in their research skills. The students are allowed to explore a set of commonly used molecular biology techniques to solve some fundamental problems about genes on their own. They find a gene of interest, write a mini-proposal, and give an oral presentation. This course provides students a foundation before entering the research laboratory and allows them to adapt easily to real research programs. Copyright © 2008 International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

Non-invasive dendrochronology of late-medieval objects in Oslo: refinement of a technique and discoveries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Daly, Aoife; Streeton, Noëlle L. W.

2017-06-01

A technique for non-invasive dendrochronological analysis of oak was developed for archaeological material, using an industrial CT scanner. Since 2013, this experience has been extended within the scope of the research project `After the Black Death: Painting and Polychrome Sculpture in Norway'. The source material for the project is a collection of late-medieval winged altarpieces, shrines, polychrome sculpture, and fragments from Norwegian churches, which are owned by the Museum of Cultural History, University of Oslo. The majority cannot be sampled, and many are too large to fit into the CT scanner. For these reasons, a combined approach was adopted, utilizing CT scanning where possible, but preceded by an `exposed-wood' imaging technique. Both non-invasive techniques have yielded reliable results, and CT scanning has confirmed the reliability of the imaging technique alone. This paper presents the analytical methods, along with results from two of the 13 objects under investigation. Results for reliable dates and provenances provide new foundations for historical interpretations.

Optimizaton of corrosion control for lead in drinking water using computational modeling techniques

EPA Science Inventory

Computational modeling techniques have been used to very good effect in the UK in the optimization of corrosion control for lead in drinking water. A “proof-of-concept” project with three US/CA case studies sought to demonstrate that such techniques could work equally well in the...

Guidelines for project-level traffic forecasting for Hawaii Department of Transportation.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2015-12-01

These guidelines describe both best practice and acceptable practice for performing project-level traffic : forecasts for the State of Hawaii. The guidelines describe a number of techniques and options that are all : acceptable within their intended ...

Holographic Imaging In Dense Artificial Fog

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Liu, Hua-Kuang; Marzwell, Neville

1996-01-01

Artificial fog serves as volume-projection medium for display of three-dimensional image. Projection technique enables display of images for variety of purposes, possibly including entertainment, indoor and outdoor advertising, medical diagnostics and image representations for surgical procedures, and education.

Introducing Undergraduates to a Research Laboratory

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Weinberg, Robert

1974-01-01

Discusses a student project which is intended to teach undergraduates concepts and techniques of nuclear physics, experimental methods used in particle detection, and provide experience in a functioning research environment. Included are detailed procedures for carrying out the project. (CC)

World Energy Projection System Plus Model Documentation: Greenhouse Gases Module

EIA Publications

2011-01-01

This report documents the objectives, analytical approach and development of the World Energy Projection System Plus (WEPS ) Greenhouse Gases Model. It also catalogues and describes critical assumptions, computational methodology, parameter estimation techniques, and model source code.

World Energy Projection System Plus Model Documentation: Natural Gas Module

EIA Publications

2011-01-01

This report documents the objectives, analytical approach and development of the World Energy Projection System Plus (WEPS ) Natural Gas Model. It also catalogues and describes critical assumptions, computational methodology, parameter estimation techniques, and model source code.

Innovative tools and techniques in identifying highway safety improvement projects : project summary.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-01-01

Researchers completed the following activities: - Reviewed the literature, state HSIP processes and practices, and HSIP tools used by various agencies. - Evaluated the applicability of safety assessment methods and tools used by other states and loca...

World Energy Projection System Plus Model Documentation: District Heat Module

EIA Publications

2017-01-01

This report documents the objectives, analytical approach and development of the World Energy Projection System Plus (WEPS ) District Heat Model. It also catalogues and describes critical assumptions, computational methodology, parameter estimation techniques, and model source code.

World Energy Projection System Plus Model Documentation: Industrial Module

EIA Publications

2016-01-01

This report documents the objectives, analytical approach and development of the World Energy Projection System Plus (WEPS ) World Industrial Model (WIM). It also catalogues and describes critical assumptions, computational methodology, parameter estimation techniques, and model source code.

Improving Project Management with Simulation and Completion Distribution Functions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cates, Grant R.

2004-01-01

Despite the critical importance of project completion timeliness, management practices in place today remain inadequate for addressing the persistent problem of project completion tardiness. A major culprit in late projects is uncertainty, which most, if not all, projects are inherently subject to. This uncertainty resides in the estimates for activity durations, the occurrence of unplanned and unforeseen events, and the availability of critical resources. In response to this problem, this research developed a comprehensive simulation based methodology for conducting quantitative project completion time risk analysis. It is called the Project Assessment by Simulation Technique (PAST). This new tool enables project stakeholders to visualize uncertainty or risk, i.e. the likelihood of their project completing late and the magnitude of the lateness, by providing them with a completion time distribution function of their projects. Discrete event simulation is used within PAST to determine the completion distribution function for the project of interest. The simulation is populated with both deterministic and stochastic elements. The deterministic inputs include planned project activities, precedence requirements, and resource requirements. The stochastic inputs include activity duration growth distributions, probabilities for events that can impact the project, and other dynamic constraints that may be placed upon project activities and milestones. These stochastic inputs are based upon past data from similar projects. The time for an entity to complete the simulation network, subject to both the deterministic and stochastic factors, represents the time to complete the project. Repeating the simulation hundreds or thousands of times allows one to create the project completion distribution function. The Project Assessment by Simulation Technique was demonstrated to be effective for the on-going NASA project to assemble the International Space Station. Approximately $500 million per month is being spent on this project, which is scheduled to complete by 2010. NASA project stakeholders participated in determining and managing completion distribution functions produced from PAST. The first result was that project stakeholders improved project completion risk awareness. Secondly, using PAST, mitigation options were analyzed to improve project completion performance and reduce total project cost.

Binary moving-blocker-based scatter correction in cone-beam computed tomography with width-truncated projections: proof of concept.

PubMed

Lee, Ho; Fahimian, Benjamin P; Xing, Lei

2017-03-21

This paper proposes a binary moving-blocker (BMB)-based technique for scatter correction in cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). In concept, a beam blocker consisting of lead strips, mounted in front of the x-ray tube, moves rapidly in and out of the beam during a single gantry rotation. The projections are acquired in alternating phases of blocked and unblocked cone beams, where the blocked phase results in a stripe pattern in the width direction. To derive the scatter map from the blocked projections, 1D B-Spline interpolation/extrapolation is applied by using the detected information in the shaded regions. The scatter map of the unblocked projections is corrected by averaging two scatter maps that correspond to their adjacent blocked projections. The scatter-corrected projections are obtained by subtracting the corresponding scatter maps from the projection data and are utilized to generate the CBCT image by a compressed-sensing (CS)-based iterative reconstruction algorithm. Catphan504 and pelvis phantoms were used to evaluate the method's performance. The proposed BMB-based technique provided an effective method to enhance the image quality by suppressing scatter-induced artifacts, such as ring artifacts around the bowtie area. Compared to CBCT without a blocker, the spatial nonuniformity was reduced from 9.1% to 3.1%. The root-mean-square error of the CT numbers in the regions of interest (ROIs) was reduced from 30.2 HU to 3.8 HU. In addition to high resolution, comparable to that of the benchmark image, the CS-based reconstruction also led to a better contrast-to-noise ratio in seven ROIs. The proposed technique enables complete scatter-corrected CBCT imaging with width-truncated projections and allows reducing the acquisition time to approximately half. This work may have significant implications for image-guided or adaptive radiation therapy, where CBCT is often used.

Binary moving-blocker-based scatter correction in cone-beam computed tomography with width-truncated projections: proof of concept

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Ho; Fahimian, Benjamin P.; Xing, Lei

2017-03-01

This paper proposes a binary moving-blocker (BMB)-based technique for scatter correction in cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). In concept, a beam blocker consisting of lead strips, mounted in front of the x-ray tube, moves rapidly in and out of the beam during a single gantry rotation. The projections are acquired in alternating phases of blocked and unblocked cone beams, where the blocked phase results in a stripe pattern in the width direction. To derive the scatter map from the blocked projections, 1D B-Spline interpolation/extrapolation is applied by using the detected information in the shaded regions. The scatter map of the unblocked projections is corrected by averaging two scatter maps that correspond to their adjacent blocked projections. The scatter-corrected projections are obtained by subtracting the corresponding scatter maps from the projection data and are utilized to generate the CBCT image by a compressed-sensing (CS)-based iterative reconstruction algorithm. Catphan504 and pelvis phantoms were used to evaluate the method’s performance. The proposed BMB-based technique provided an effective method to enhance the image quality by suppressing scatter-induced artifacts, such as ring artifacts around the bowtie area. Compared to CBCT without a blocker, the spatial nonuniformity was reduced from 9.1% to 3.1%. The root-mean-square error of the CT numbers in the regions of interest (ROIs) was reduced from 30.2 HU to 3.8 HU. In addition to high resolution, comparable to that of the benchmark image, the CS-based reconstruction also led to a better contrast-to-noise ratio in seven ROIs. The proposed technique enables complete scatter-corrected CBCT imaging with width-truncated projections and allows reducing the acquisition time to approximately half. This work may have significant implications for image-guided or adaptive radiation therapy, where CBCT is often used.

Inverse determination of the penalty parameter in penalized weighted least-squares algorithm for noise reduction of low-dose CBCT

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

Wang, Jing; Guan, Huaiqun; Solberg, Timothy

2011-07-15

Purpose: A statistical projection restoration algorithm based on the penalized weighted least-squares (PWLS) criterion can substantially improve the image quality of low-dose CBCT images. The performance of PWLS is largely dependent on the choice of the penalty parameter. Previously, the penalty parameter was chosen empirically by trial and error. In this work, the authors developed an inverse technique to calculate the penalty parameter in PWLS for noise suppression of low-dose CBCT in image guided radiotherapy (IGRT). Methods: In IGRT, a daily CBCT is acquired for the same patient during a treatment course. In this work, the authors acquired the CBCTmore » with a high-mAs protocol for the first session and then a lower mAs protocol for the subsequent sessions. The high-mAs projections served as the goal (ideal) toward, which the low-mAs projections were to be smoothed by minimizing the PWLS objective function. The penalty parameter was determined through an inverse calculation of the derivative of the objective function incorporating both the high and low-mAs projections. Then the parameter obtained can be used for PWLS to smooth the noise in low-dose projections. CBCT projections for a CatPhan 600 and an anthropomorphic head phantom, as well as for a brain patient, were used to evaluate the performance of the proposed technique. Results: The penalty parameter in PWLS was obtained for each CBCT projection using the proposed strategy. The noise in the low-dose CBCT images reconstructed from the smoothed projections was greatly suppressed. Image quality in PWLS-processed low-dose CBCT was comparable to its corresponding high-dose CBCT. Conclusions: A technique was proposed to estimate the penalty parameter for PWLS algorithm. It provides an objective and efficient way to obtain the penalty parameter for image restoration algorithms that require predefined smoothing parameters.« less

Highlight removal based on the regional-projection fringe projection method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qi, Zhaoshuai; Wang, Zhao; Huang, Junhui; Xing, Chao; Gao, Jianmin

2018-04-01

In fringe projection profilometry, highlight usually causes the saturation and blooming in captured fringes and reduces the measurement accuracy. To solve the problem, a regional-projection fringe projection (RP-FP) method is proposed. Regional projection patterns (RP patterns) are projected onto the tested object surface to avoid the saturation and blooming. Then, an image inpainting technique is employed to reconstruct the missing phases in the captured RP patterns and a complete surface of the tested object is obtained. Experiments verified the effectiveness of the proposed method. The method can be widely used in industrial inspections and quality controlling in mechanical and manufacturing industries.

Software engineering with application-specific languages

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Campbell, David J.; Barker, Linda; Mitchell, Deborah; Pollack, Robert H.

1993-01-01

Application-Specific Languages (ASL's) are small, special-purpose languages that are targeted to solve a specific class of problems. Using ASL's on software development projects can provide considerable cost savings, reduce risk, and enhance quality and reliability. ASL's provide a platform for reuse within a project or across many projects and enable less-experienced programmers to tap into the expertise of application-area experts. ASL's have been used on several software development projects for the Space Shuttle Program. On these projects, the use of ASL's resulted in considerable cost savings over conventional development techniques. Two of these projects are described.

Slope Stabilization Using Recycled Plastic Pins, Phase III.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2007-01-01

A new technique for stabilizing surficial slope failures using recycled plastic reinforcing members has been developed. The : objective of the project described in this report has been to develop, evaluate, and document a technique for stabilization ...

Using Tissue Culture To Investigate Plant Cell Differentiation and Dedifferentiation.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bozzone, Donna M.

1997-01-01

Describes an experimental project that uses plant tissue culture techniques to examine cell differentiation in the carrot. Allows students to gain experience in some important techniques and to explore fundamental questions about cell differentiation. (DDR)

A Three-Component Model for Magnetization Transfer. Solution by Projection-Operator Technique, and Application to Cartilage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Adler, Ronald S.; Swanson, Scott D.; Yeung, Hong N.

1996-01-01

A projection-operator technique is applied to a general three-component model for magnetization transfer, extending our previous two-component model [R. S. Adler and H. N. Yeung,J. Magn. Reson. A104,321 (1993), and H. N. Yeung, R. S. Adler, and S. D. Swanson,J. Magn. Reson. A106,37 (1994)]. The PO technique provides an elegant means of deriving a simple, effective rate equation in which there is natural separation of relaxation and source terms and allows incorporation of Redfield-Provotorov theory without any additional assumptions or restrictive conditions. The PO technique is extended to incorporate more general, multicomponent models. The three-component model is used to fit experimental data from samples of human hyaline cartilage and fibrocartilage. The fits of the three-component model are compared to the fits of the two-component model.

Systems-Level Synthetic Biology for Advanced Biofuel Production

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

Ruffing, Anne; Jensen, Travis J.; Strickland, Lucas Marshall

2015-03-01

Cyanobacteria have been shown to be capable of producing a variety of advanced biofuels; however, product yields remain well below those necessary for large scale production. New genetic tools and high throughput metabolic engineering techniques are needed to optimize cyanobacterial metabolisms for enhanced biofuel production. Towards this goal, this project advances the development of a multiple promoter replacement technique for systems-level optimization of gene expression in a model cyanobacterial host: Synechococcus sp. PCC 7002. To realize this multiple-target approach, key capabilities were developed, including a high throughput detection method for advanced biofuels, enhanced transformation efficiency, and genetic tools for Synechococcusmore » sp. PCC 7002. Moreover, several additional obstacles were identified for realization of this multiple promoter replacement technique. The techniques and tools developed in this project will help to enable future efforts in the advancement of cyanobacterial biofuels.« less

Simplified projection technique to correct geometric and chromatic lens aberrations using plenoptic imaging.

PubMed

Dallaire, Xavier; Thibault, Simon

2017-04-01

Plenoptic imaging has been used in the past decade mainly for 3D reconstruction or digital refocusing. It was also shown that this technology has potential for correcting monochromatic aberrations in a standard optical system. In this paper, we present an algorithm for reconstructing images using a projection technique while correcting defects present in it that can apply to chromatic aberrations and wide-angle optical systems. We show that the impact of noise on the reconstruction procedure is minimal. Trade-offs between the sampling of the optical system needed for characterization and image quality are presented. Examples are shown for aberrations in a classic optical system and for chromatic aberrations. The technique is also applied to a wide-angle full field of view of 140° (FFOV 140°) optical system. This technique could be used in order to further simplify or minimize optical systems.

Kedalion: NASA's Adaptable and Agile Hardware/Software Integration and Test Lab

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mangieri, Mark L.; Vice, Jason

2011-01-01

NASA fs Kedalion engineering analysis lab at Johnson Space Center is on the forefront of validating and using many contemporary avionics hardware/software development and integration techniques, which represent new paradigms to heritage NASA culture. Kedalion has validated many of the Orion hardware/software engineering techniques borrowed from the adjacent commercial aircraft avionics solution space, with the intention to build upon such techniques to better align with today fs aerospace market. Using agile techniques, commercial products, early rapid prototyping, in-house expertise and tools, and customer collaboration, Kedalion has demonstrated that cost effective contemporary paradigms hold the promise to serve future NASA endeavors within a diverse range of system domains. Kedalion provides a readily adaptable solution for medium/large scale integration projects. The Kedalion lab is currently serving as an in-line resource for the project and the Multipurpose Crew Vehicle (MPCV) program.

A Project to Initiate a Competency-Based Welding Program in Five Missouri Area Vocational Schools for Students with Special Needs and Varying Abilities. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Evans, Shirley J.; Evans, Gerald

A project was conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness of competency-based, individualized instruction as a teaching technique in vocational welding programs for students with varying backgrounds, abilities, and special needs. Five Missouri area vocational schools participated in the project by field testing and evaluating welding instructional…

Exploring the Degree of Support by PMOs for New Project Management Techniques and Methods

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lopez, Kathleen P.

2012-01-01

An organization tends to seek out the best set of practices in order to achieve project success. Many organizations are implementing a Project Management Office (PMO) to serve as a central post for organizing and disseminating best practices. The PMO responsibilities in part is to examine all practices, old and new, to best determine which…

75 FR 27854 - 30-Day Notice of Proposed Information Collection: DS-4048, Projected Sales of Major Weapons in...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-05-18

... Information Collection: DS-4048, Projected Sales of Major Weapons in Support of Section 25(a)(1) of the Arms... Reduction Act of 1995. Title of Information Collection: Projected Sales of Major Weapons in Support of... automated collection techniques or other forms of technology. Abstract of proposed collection: Section 25(a...

Remote sensing program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Liang, T.

1973-01-01

Research projects concerning the development and application of remote sensors are discussed. Some of the research projects conducted are as follows: (1) aerial photographic inventory of natural resources, (2) detection of buried river channels, (3) delineation of interconnected waterways, (4) plant indicators of atmospheric pollution, and (5) techniques for data transfer from photographs to base maps. On-going projects involving earth resources analyses are described.

International rehabilitation project for the territories contaminated as a result of the ChNPP accident

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

Polyakov, A.S.; Raginsky, L.S.; Rybakov, K.A.

1993-12-31

The international rehabilitation project for the territories contaminated as a result of the ChNPP accident is described. The project includes the development of techniques and hardware for decontamination of soils in the suffered regions Russia, the Ukraina, and Byelorussia, in view of differences in composition of soils, their structure, landscape and geological characteristic properties.

A Study on the Evaluation of Science Projects of Primary School Students Based on Scientific Criteria

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gungor, Sema Nur; Ozer, Dilek Zeren; Ozkan, Muhlis

2013-01-01

This study re-evaluated 454 science projects that were prepared by primary school students between 2007 and 2011 within the scope of Science Projects Event for Primary School Students. Also, submitted to TUBITAK BIDEB Bursa regional science board by MNE regional work groups in accordance with scientific research methods and techniques, including…

Quantitative Framework to Evaluate Alternative Dispute Resolution Investments in Architecture Engineering and Construction Projects Using Option and Real Option Theory

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Menassa, Carol Chukri

2009-01-01

A project-specific dispute resolution ladder (DRL) typically consists of multiple alternative dispute resolution (ADR) techniques that are chosen to assist in mitigating the impact of change orders and claims (CCO) occurring during the project construction phase, and avoid their escalation to protracted disputes that adversely affect a…

The making of the mechanical universe

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Blinn, James

1989-01-01

The Mechanical Universe project required the production of over 550 different animated scenes, totaling about 7 and 1/2 hours of screen time. The project required the use of a wide range of techniques and motivated the development of several different software packages. A documentation is presented of many aspects of the project, encompassing artistic design issues, scientific simulations, software engineering, and video engineering.

A Novel Approach to Measuring Efficiency of Scientific Research Projects: Data Envelopment Analysis.

PubMed

Dilts, David M; Zell, Adrienne; Orwoll, Eric

2015-10-01

Measuring the efficiency of resource allocation for the conduct of scientific projects in medical research is difficult due to, among other factors, the heterogeneity of resources supplied (e.g., dollars or FTEs) and outcomes expected (e.g., grants, publications). While this is an issue in medical science, it has been approached successfully in other fields by using data envelopment analysis (DEA). DEA has a number of advantages over other techniques as it simultaneously uses multiple heterogeneous inputs and outputs to determine which projects are performing most efficiently, referred to as being at the efficiency frontier, when compared to others in the data set. This research uses DEA for the evaluation of supported translational science projects by the Oregon Clinical and Translational Research Institute (OCTRI), a NCATS Clinical & Translational Science Award (CTSA) recipient. These results suggest that the primary determinate of overall project efficiency at OCTRI is the amount of funding, with smaller amounts of funding providing more efficiency than larger funding amounts. These results, and the use of DEA, highlight both the success of using this technique in helping determine medical research efficiency and those factors to consider when distributing funds for new projects at CTSAs. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Time to act: crossing borders in global AIDS prevention.

PubMed

Convisser, J; Thuermer, K

1993-01-01

After 9 months of market research and collaboration among local health officials, businesses, politicians, and teenagers, Population Services International (PSI) launched Project ACTION in Portland, Oregon on December 1, 1992. It is the first PSI project in the United States concerned with prevention of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) in American youth. PSI has conducted 23 projects worldwide over the last 20 years that were based on social marketing (the utilization of commercial marketing techniques to promote healthy behavior). The objective of the project is promotion of safe sex practices, especially the use of condoms, among sexually active youth, aged 12-21. The Mass Media and Condom Social Marketing project of PSI in Zaire was used as a model for Project ACTION. Techniques used include mass marketing campaigns, point of purchase promotion, improvement of access to key products among target populations, and adjustment of purchase price to create a market. The target populations include adolescents who use drugs, are involved with the juvenile justice system, are pregnant, have a problem home environment, are homeless or live on the street, are chronically absent from school, or have a history of sexually transmitted disease.

Optical sectioning microscopes with no moving parts using a micro-stripe array light emitting diode.

PubMed

Poher, V; Zhang, H X; Kennedy, G T; Griffin, C; Oddos, S; Gu, E; Elson, D S; Girkin, M; French, P M W; Dawson, M D; Neil, M A

2007-09-03

We describe an optical sectioning microscopy system with no moving parts based on a micro-structured stripe-array light emitting diode (LED). By projecting arbitrary line or grid patterns onto the object, we are able to implement a variety of optical sectioning microscopy techniques such as grid-projection structured illumination and line scanning confocal microscopy, switching from one imaging technique to another without modifying the microscope setup. The micro-structured LED and driver are detailed and depth discrimination capabilities are measured and calculated.

Solar demonstration project in a fast-food restaurant

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McClenahan, D.

1980-11-01

The results of a two-phase program in which the first phase included the successful use of heat reclamation equipment and energy conservation techniques at a typical fast-food restaurant are described. The project's second phase involved the engineering, designing, installation and interfacing of a solar collector system at the facility. The report will help to serve as a guide for other restaurants around the state, and possibly the nation, which wish to install energy saving systems, or adopt energy-saving techniques, geared to their special needs and equipment.

Projection transparencies from printed material

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Grunewald, L. S.; Nickerson, T. B.

1968-01-01

Method for preparing project transparencies, or view graphs, permits the use of almost any expendable printed material, pictures, charts, or text, in unlimited color or black and white. The method can be accomplished by either of two techniques, with a slight difference in materials.

Predicting fatigue service life extension of RC bridges with externally bonded CFRP repairs : [project brief].

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2015-12-01

Externally bonded carbon fiber reinforced polymer composites (CFRPs) are increasingly used to : repair concrete bridges. CFRP design techniques are a proven approach for enhancing the strength : of existing structures. This project investigated the d...

34 CFR 429.10 - What types of projects may be funded?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... VOCATIONAL AND ADULT EDUCATION, DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION BILINGUAL VOCATIONAL MATERIALS, METHODS, AND... cooperative agreements for— (a) Research in bilingual vocational training; (b) The development of instructional and curriculum materials, methods, or techniques; (c) Training projects to familiarize State...

Artificial intelligence in astronomy - a forecast.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Adorf, H. M.

Since several years artificial intelligence techniques are being actively used in astronomy, particularly within the Hubble Space Telescope project. This contribution reviews achievements, analyses some problems of using artificial intelligence in an astronomical environment, and projects current AI programming trends into the future.

Software engineering project management - A state-of-the-art report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thayer, R. H.; Lehman, J. H.

1977-01-01

The management of software engineering projects in the aerospace industry was investigated. The survey assessed such features as contract type, specification preparation techniques, software documentation required by customers, planning and cost-estimating, quality control, the use of advanced program practices, software tools and test procedures, the education levels of project managers, programmers and analysts, work assignment, automatic software monitoring capabilities, design and coding reviews, production times, success rates, and organizational structure of the projects.

Clinical Study of Orthogonal-View Phase-Matched Digital Tomosynthesis for Lung Tumor Localization.

PubMed

Zhang, You; Ren, Lei; Vergalasova, Irina; Yin, Fang-Fang

2017-01-01

Compared to cone-beam computed tomography, digital tomosynthesis imaging has the benefits of shorter scanning time, less imaging dose, and better mechanical clearance for tumor localization in radiation therapy. However, for lung tumors, the localization accuracy of the conventional digital tomosynthesis technique is affected by the lack of depth information and the existence of lung tumor motion. This study investigates the clinical feasibility of using an orthogonal-view phase-matched digital tomosynthesis technique to improve the accuracy of lung tumor localization. The proposed orthogonal-view phase-matched digital tomosynthesis technique benefits from 2 major features: (1) it acquires orthogonal-view projections to improve the depth information in reconstructed digital tomosynthesis images and (2) it applies respiratory phase-matching to incorporate patient motion information into the synthesized reference digital tomosynthesis sets, which helps to improve the localization accuracy of moving lung tumors. A retrospective study enrolling 14 patients was performed to evaluate the accuracy of the orthogonal-view phase-matched digital tomosynthesis technique. Phantom studies were also performed using an anthropomorphic phantom to investigate the feasibility of using intratreatment aggregated kV and beams' eye view cine MV projections for orthogonal-view phase-matched digital tomosynthesis imaging. The localization accuracy of the orthogonal-view phase-matched digital tomosynthesis technique was compared to that of the single-view digital tomosynthesis techniques and the digital tomosynthesis techniques without phase-matching. The orthogonal-view phase-matched digital tomosynthesis technique outperforms the other digital tomosynthesis techniques in tumor localization accuracy for both the patient study and the phantom study. For the patient study, the orthogonal-view phase-matched digital tomosynthesis technique localizes the tumor to an average (± standard deviation) error of 1.8 (0.7) mm for a 30° total scan angle. For the phantom study using aggregated kV-MV projections, the orthogonal-view phase-matched digital tomosynthesis localizes the tumor to an average error within 1 mm for varying magnitudes of scan angles. The pilot clinical study shows that the orthogonal-view phase-matched digital tomosynthesis technique enables fast and accurate localization of moving lung tumors.

Using Technology to Facilitate and Enhance Project-based Learning in Mathematical Physics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Duda, Gintaras

2011-04-01

Problem-based and project-based learning are two pedagogical techniques that have several clear advantages over traditional instructional methods: 1) both techniques are active and student centered, 2) students confront real-world and/or highly complex problems, and 3) such exercises model the way science and engineering are done professionally. This talk will present an experiment in project/problem-based learning in a mathematical physics course. The group project in the course involved modeling a zombie outbreak of the type seen in AMC's ``The Walking Dead.'' Students researched, devised, and solved their mathematical models for the spread of zombie-like infection. Students used technology in all stages; in fact, since analytical solutions to the models were often impossible, technology was a necessary and critical component of the challenge. This talk will explore the use of technology in general in problem and project-based learning and will detail some specific examples of how technology was used to enhance student learning in this course. A larger issue of how students use the Internet to learn will also be explored.

AI Techniques for Space: The APSI Approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Steel, R.; Niézette, M.; Cesta, A.; Verfaille, G., Lavagna, M.; Donati, A.

2009-05-01

This paper will outline the framework and tools developed under the Advanced Planning and Schedule Initiative (APSI) study performed by VEGA for the European Space Agency in collaboration with three academic institutions, ISTC-CNR, ONERA, and Politecnico di Milano. We will start by illustrating the background history to APSI and why it was needed, giving a brief summary of all the partners within the project and the rolls they played within it. We will then take a closer look at what APSI actually consists of, showing the techniques that were used and detailing the framework that was developed within the scope of the project. We will follow this with an elaboration on the three demonstration test scenarios that have been developed as part of the project, illustrating the re-use and synergies between the three cases along the way. We will finally conclude with a summary of some pros and cons of the approach devised during the project and outline future directions to be further investigated and expanded on within the context of the work performed within the project.

Shapes on a plane: Evaluating the impact of projection distortion on spatial binning

USGS Publications Warehouse

Battersby, Sarah E.; Strebe, Daniel “daan”; Finn, Michael P.

2017-01-01

One method for working with large, dense sets of spatial point data is to aggregate the measure of the data into polygonal containers, such as political boundaries, or into regular spatial bins such as triangles, squares, or hexagons. When mapping these aggregations, the map projection must inevitably distort relationships. This distortion can impact the reader’s ability to compare count and density measures across the map. Spatial binning, particularly via hexagons, is becoming a popular technique for displaying aggregate measures of point data sets. Increasingly, we see questionable use of the technique without attendant discussion of its hazards. In this work, we discuss when and why spatial binning works and how mapmakers can better understand the limitations caused by distortion from projecting to the plane. We introduce equations for evaluating distortion’s impact on one common projection (Web Mercator) and discuss how the methods used generalize to other projections. While we focus on hexagonal binning, these same considerations affect spatial bins of any shape, and more generally, any analysis of geographic data performed in planar space.

A Research Project-Based and Self-Determined Teaching System of Molecular Biology Techniques for Undergraduates

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zhang, Shuping

2008-01-01

Molecular biology techniques play a very important role in understanding the biological activity. Students who major in biology should know not only how to perform experiments, but also the reasons for performing them. Having the concept of conducting research by integrating various techniques is especially important. This paper introduces a…

Bond enhancement techniques for PCC white topping

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1996-01-01

This research was initiated in 1991 as a part of a whitetopping project to study the effectiveness of various techniques to enhance bond strength between a new portland cement concrete (PCC) overlay and an existing asphalt cement concrete (ACC) pavem...

New Teaching Techniques.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Health Education (Washington D.C.), 1985

1985-01-01

Health educators have consistently shown creativity in using innovative teaching techniques. Three articles from the past discuss "new" teaching methods: (1) "A Radio Project Teaches Your Class" (Miller); (2) "An Activity Program in Alcohol Education" (Breg); and (3) "Teaching Health Through Pictures" (Haviland). (CB)

Deep Lake Explorer: Using citizen science to analyze underwater video from the Great Lakes

EPA Science Inventory

While underwater video collection technology continues to improve, advancements in underwater video analysis techniques have lagged. Crowdsourcing image interpretation using the Zooniverse platform has proven successful for many projects, but few projects to date have included vi...

15 CFR 291.3 - Environmental tools and techniques projects.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... demonstrated access to relevant technical or information sources external to the organization. (3) Degree of.... Applicants should specify plans for proper organization, staffing, and management of the implementation... managing organization to conduct the proposed activities; qualifications of the project team and its...

USING PLANTS TO REMEDIATE PETROLEUM-CONTAMINATED SOIL: PROJECT CONTINUATION

EPA Science Inventory

Crude oil contamination of soil often occurs adjacent to wellheads and storage facilities. Phytoremediation is a promising tool that can be used to remediate such sites and uses plants and agronomic techniques to enhance biodegradation of hydrocarbons. This project has conduct...

An Example of Process Evaluation.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Karl, Marion C.

The inappropriateness of standard experimental research design, which can stifle innovations, is discussed in connection with the problems of designing practical techniques for evaluating a Title III curriculum development project. The project, involving 12 school districts and 2,500 students, teaches concept understanding, critical thinking, and…

75 FR 51821 - Proposed Information Collection Activity; Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-08-23

... through the use of automated collection techniques or other forms of information technology. Consideration... Information Collection Activity; Comment Request Proposed Projects: Title: Projects of National Significance...? This information will inform public policy regarding the best methods to deliver important supports to...

Modelling Truck Camper Production

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kramlich, G. R., II; Kobylski, G.; Ahner, D.

2008-01-01

This note describes an interdisciplinary project designed to enhance students' knowledge of the basic techniques taught in a multivariable calculus course. The note discusses the four main requirements of the project and then the solutions for each requirement. Concepts covered include differentials, gradients, Lagrange multipliers, constrained…

Innovative tools and techniques in identifying highway safety improvement projects : technical report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-08-01

The Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) aims to achieve a reduction in the number and severity of fatalities and serious injury crashes on all public roads by implementing highway safety improvement projects. Although the structure and main com...

Access to destinations : annual accessibility measure for the Twin Cities Metropolitan Region.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2012-11-01

This report summarizes previous phases of the Access to Destinations project and applies the techniques developed : over the course of the project to conduct an evaluation of accessibility in the Twin Cities metropolitan region for : 2010. It describ...

Constructive Criticism.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lieberfeld, Lawrence

1982-01-01

Many crucial questions need to be answered before a college embarks on a construction project and makes a substantial financial commitment. Computer modeling techniques can be used to make even complex project feasibility analyses. Available from Peat, Marwick, Mitchell & Co., 345 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10154. (MSE)

Performance evaluation of Arizona's LTPP SPS-6 project : strategic study of rehabilitation techniques.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-10-01

As part of the Long Term Pavement Performance (LTPP) Program, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) : constructed 19 Specific Pavement Studies 6 (SPS6) test sections on Interstate 40 near Flagstaff. The SPS6 project : studied the effe...

A Brief Evaluation of a Project to Engage American Indian Young People as Agents of Change in Health Promotion Through Radio Programming, Arizona, 2009-2013.

PubMed

Chico-Jarillo, Tara M; Crozier, Athena; Teufel-Shone, Nicolette I; Hutchens, Theresa; George, Miranda

2016-02-11

Young people can be valuable motivational resources for health promotion. A project implemented from 2009 through 2013 in a small American Indian community in northwest Arizona recruited American Indian young people aged 10 to 21 as agents of change for health promotion through radio programming. Thirty-seven participants were recruited and trained in broadcasting and creative writing techniques; they produced and aired 3 radio dramas. In post-project evaluation, participants were confident they could influence community behaviors but thought that training techniques were too similar to those used in school activities and thus reduced their drive to engage. Effective engagement of young people requires creativity to enhance recruitment, retention, and impact.

Aberration measurement of projection optics in lithographic tools based on two-beam interference theory.

PubMed

Ma, Mingying; Wang, Xiangzhao; Wang, Fan

2006-11-10

The degradation of image quality caused by aberrations of projection optics in lithographic tools is a serious problem in optical lithography. We propose what we believe to be a novel technique for measuring aberrations of projection optics based on two-beam interference theory. By utilizing the partial coherent imaging theory, a novel model that accurately characterizes the relative image displacement of a fine grating pattern to a large pattern induced by aberrations is derived. Both even and odd aberrations are extracted independently from the relative image displacements of the printed patterns by two-beam interference imaging of the zeroth and positive first orders. The simulation results show that by using this technique we can measure the aberrations present in the lithographic tool with higher accuracy.

2D virtual texture on 3D real object with coded structured light

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Molinier, Thierry; Fofi, David; Salvi, Joaquim; Gorria, Patrick

2008-02-01

Augmented reality is used to improve color segmentation on human body or on precious no touch artifacts. We propose a technique to project a synthesized texture on real object without contact. Our technique can be used in medical or archaeological application. By projecting a suitable set of light patterns onto the surface of a 3D real object and by capturing images with a camera, a large number of correspondences can be found and the 3D points can be reconstructed. We aim to determine these points of correspondence between cameras and projector from a scene without explicit points and normals. We then project an adjusted texture onto the real object surface. We propose a global and automatic method to virtually texture a 3D real object.

Northern Everglades, Florida, satellite image map

USGS Publications Warehouse

Thomas, Jean-Claude; Jones, John W.

2002-01-01

These satellite image maps are one product of the USGS Land Characteristics from Remote Sensing project, funded through the USGS Place-Based Studies Program with support from the Everglades National Park. The objective of this project is to develop and apply innovative remote sensing and geographic information system techniques to map the distribution of vegetation, vegetation characteristics, and related hydrologic variables through space and over time. The mapping and description of vegetation characteristics and their variations are necessary to accurately simulate surface hydrology and other surface processes in South Florida and to monitor land surface changes. As part of this research, data from many airborne and satellite imaging systems have been georeferenced and processed to facilitate data fusion and analysis. These image maps were created using image fusion techniques developed as part of this project.

Estimating 4D-CBCT from prior information and extremely limited angle projections using structural PCA and weighted free-form deformation for lung radiotherapy.

PubMed

Harris, Wendy; Zhang, You; Yin, Fang-Fang; Ren, Lei

2017-03-01

To investigate the feasibility of using structural-based principal component analysis (PCA) motion-modeling and weighted free-form deformation to estimate on-board 4D-CBCT using prior information and extremely limited angle projections for potential 4D target verification of lung radiotherapy. A technique for lung 4D-CBCT reconstruction has been previously developed using a deformation field map (DFM)-based strategy. In the previous method, each phase of the 4D-CBCT was generated by deforming a prior CT volume. The DFM was solved by a motion model extracted by a global PCA and free-form deformation (GMM-FD) technique, using a data fidelity constraint and deformation energy minimization. In this study, a new structural PCA method was developed to build a structural motion model (SMM) by accounting for potential relative motion pattern changes between different anatomical structures from simulation to treatment. The motion model extracted from planning 4DCT was divided into two structures: tumor and body excluding tumor, and the parameters of both structures were optimized together. Weighted free-form deformation (WFD) was employed afterwards to introduce flexibility in adjusting the weightings of different structures in the data fidelity constraint based on clinical interests. XCAT (computerized patient model) simulation with a 30 mm diameter lesion was simulated with various anatomical and respiratory changes from planning 4D-CT to on-board volume to evaluate the method. The estimation accuracy was evaluated by the volume percent difference (VPD)/center-of-mass-shift (COMS) between lesions in the estimated and "ground-truth" on-board 4D-CBCT. Different on-board projection acquisition scenarios and projection noise levels were simulated to investigate their effects on the estimation accuracy. The method was also evaluated against three lung patients. The SMM-WFD method achieved substantially better accuracy than the GMM-FD method for CBCT estimation using extremely small scan angles or projections. Using orthogonal 15° scanning angles, the VPD/COMS were 3.47 ± 2.94% and 0.23 ± 0.22 mm for SMM-WFD and 25.23 ± 19.01% and 2.58 ± 2.54 mm for GMM-FD among all eight XCAT scenarios. Compared to GMM-FD, SMM-WFD was more robust against reduction of the scanning angles down to orthogonal 10° with VPD/COMS of 6.21 ± 5.61% and 0.39 ± 0.49 mm, and more robust against reduction of projection numbers down to only 8 projections in total for both orthogonal-view 30° and orthogonal-view 15° scan angles. SMM-WFD method was also more robust than the GMM-FD method against increasing levels of noise in the projection images. Additionally, the SMM-WFD technique provided better tumor estimation for all three lung patients compared to the GMM-FD technique. Compared to the GMM-FD technique, the SMM-WFD technique can substantially improve the 4D-CBCT estimation accuracy using extremely small scan angles and low number of projections to provide fast low dose 4D target verification. © 2017 American Association of Physicists in Medicine.

Evaluation of smartphone-based interaction techniques in a CAVE in the context of immersive digital project review

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

George, Paul; Kemeny, Andras; Colombet, Florent; Merienne, Frédéric; Chardonnet, Jean-Rémy; Thouvenin, Indira Mouttapa

2014-02-01

Immersive digital project reviews consist in using virtual reality (VR) as a tool for discussion between various stakeholders of a project. In the automotive industry, the digital car prototype model is the common thread that binds them. It is used during immersive digital project reviews between designers, engineers, ergonomists, etc. The digital mockup is also used to assess future car architecture, habitability or perceived quality requirements with the aim to reduce using physical mockups for optimized cost, delay and quality efficiency. Among the difficulties identified by the users, handling the mockup is a major one. Inspired by current uses of nomad devices (multi-touch gestures, IPhone UI look'n'feel and AR applications), we designed a navigation technique taking advantage of these popular input devices: Space scrolling allows moving around the mockup. In this paper, we present the results of a study we conducted on the usability and acceptability of the proposed smartphone-based interaction metaphor compared to traditional technique and we provide indications of the most efficient choices for different use-cases accordingly. It was carried out in a traditional 4-sided CAVE and its purpose is to assess a chosen set of interaction techniques to be implemented in Renault's new 5-sides 4K x 4K wall high performance CAVE. The proposed new metaphor using nomad devices is well accepted by novice VR users and future implementation should allow an efficient industrial use. Their use is an easy and user friendly alternative of the existing traditional control devices such as a joystick.

A Framework of Combining Case-Based Reasoning with a Work Breakdown Structure for Estimating the Cost of Online Course Production Projects

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

He, Wu

2014-01-01

Currently, a work breakdown structure (WBS) approach is used as the most common cost estimation approach for online course production projects. To improve the practice of cost estimation, this paper proposes a novel framework to estimate the cost for online course production projects using a case-based reasoning (CBR) technique and a WBS. A…

Beach Nourishment Techniques. Report 3. Typical U.S. Beach Nourishment Projects Using Offshore Sand Deposits.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-05-01

Cooperative Beach Erosion Control Project at Presque Isle Peninsula, Erie , Pennsylvania ," Buffalo, N. Y. U. S. Army Engineer District, Charleston. 1963 (Mar...104 Presque Isle , Pa .. .. ..................... 109 REFERENCES .. ............................ 115 2A BEACH NOURISHMENT...RIVER COUNTY, FL T PRESQUE ISLE . PA Figure 1. Beach fill projects location map ...../ ...... studies have been authorized, or which are publicly owned

Sandia Internship Fall 2014

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

Kuhn, Joshua

2015-01-01

While working at Sandia National Laboratories as a graduate intern from September 2014 to January 2015, most of my time was spent on two projects. The first project involved designing a test fixture for circuit boards used in a recording device. The test fixture was needed to decrease test set up time. The second project was to use optimization techniques to determine the optimal G-Switch for given acceleration profiles.

The Serendip piggyback SETI project

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lampton, Michael; Bowyer, Stuart; Werthimer, Dan; Donnelly, Charles; Herrick, Walter

1988-01-01

The Serendip project, an ongoing SETI program of monitoring and processing broadband radio signals acquired by existing radio astronomy observatories, are summarized. Serendip operates in a piggyback mode, making use of whatever observing plan is under way at its host observatory. The Serendip system at NRAO and the signature detection and identification techniques used by the project are described. The method used to reject terrestrial interference is discussed.

LANDSAT land cover analysis completed for CIRSS/San Bernardino County project

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Likens, W.; Maw, K.; Sinnott, D. (Principal Investigator)

1982-01-01

The LANDSAT analysis carried out as part of Ames Research Center's San Bernardino County Project, one of four projects sponsored by NASA as part of the California Integrated Remote Sensing System (CIRSS) effort for generating and utilizing digital geographic data bases, is described. Topics explored include use of data-base modeling with spectral cluster data to improve LANDSAT data classification, and quantitative evaluation of several change techniques. Both 1976 and 1979 LANDSAT data were used in the project.

Demonstrations of Extraterrestrial Life Detection Techniques in the High School Biology Laboratory

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Saltinski, Ronald

1969-01-01

Discusses the experimental procedures and equipment for exobiology projects at the high school level. An interdisciplinary approach involving electronic equipment and micro-biological laboratory techniques is used. Photographs and diagrams of equipment are included. Bibliography. (LC)

The feasibility of implementing the data analysis and reporting techniques (DART) package in Virginia.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1980-01-01

This project was undertaken for the Virginia Department of Transportation Safety to assess the feasibility of implementing the Data Analysis and Reporting Techniques (DART) computer software system in Virginia. Following a review of available literat...

Novel Plasmonic and Hyberbolic Optical Materials for Control of Quantum Nanoemitters

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-12-08

properties, metal ion implantation techniques, and multi- physics modeling to produce hyperbolic quantum nanoemitters. 15. SUBJECT TERMS nanotechnology 16...techniques, and multi- physics modeling to produce hyperbolic quantum nanoemitters. During the course of this project we studied plasmonic

Single-stage autologous ear reconstruction for microtia.

PubMed

Kasrai, Leila; Snyder-Warwick, Alison K; Fisher, David M

2014-03-01

The authors have been using the Nagata technique since 2002. In this review of 100 consecutive ear reconstructions, the authors present technique modifications that have evolved over this period that have contributed to improved auricular contour and that now allow for auricular reconstruction in a single stage. This study is a retrospective review of a prospectively acquired database. The series is restricted to primary reconstructions performed for congenital microtia. Photographs of 10 consecutive patients are presented to demonstrate the results of the technique. Surgical complication rates are discussed. One hundred ear reconstructions were performed in 96 patients. There were 75 primary cases of congenital microtia. Twenty-four ears underwent a two-stage reconstruction, and 51 ears were reconstructed with a Nagata stage I procedure or a single-stage reconstruction. There was a gradual shift in technique, with a trend to perform fewer Nagata stage II outsetting procedures and more single-stage reconstructions. In patients who underwent an ear reconstruction in two stages, the surgical complication rate was 22 percent. In the last 40 consecutive ear reconstructions since abandoning the two-stage approach, the surgical complication rate is now 15 percent. A modification of Nagata's technique of autologous ear reconstruction for microtia is described. Modifications of the three-dimensional framework address the contour of the inferior crus and control tragal projection and position. Inclusion of a projection block and recruitment of retroauricular skin allow for symmetric projection of the ear in a single stage. Therapeutic, IV.

A Fourier-based compressed sensing technique for accelerated CT image reconstruction using first-order methods.

PubMed

Choi, Kihwan; Li, Ruijiang; Nam, Haewon; Xing, Lei

2014-06-21

As a solution to iterative CT image reconstruction, first-order methods are prominent for the large-scale capability and the fast convergence rate [Formula: see text]. In practice, the CT system matrix with a large condition number may lead to slow convergence speed despite the theoretically promising upper bound. The aim of this study is to develop a Fourier-based scaling technique to enhance the convergence speed of first-order methods applied to CT image reconstruction. Instead of working in the projection domain, we transform the projection data and construct a data fidelity model in Fourier space. Inspired by the filtered backprojection formalism, the data are appropriately weighted in Fourier space. We formulate an optimization problem based on weighted least-squares in the Fourier space and total-variation (TV) regularization in image space for parallel-beam, fan-beam and cone-beam CT geometry. To achieve the maximum computational speed, the optimization problem is solved using a fast iterative shrinkage-thresholding algorithm with backtracking line search and GPU implementation of projection/backprojection. The performance of the proposed algorithm is demonstrated through a series of digital simulation and experimental phantom studies. The results are compared with the existing TV regularized techniques based on statistics-based weighted least-squares as well as basic algebraic reconstruction technique. The proposed Fourier-based compressed sensing (CS) method significantly improves both the image quality and the convergence rate compared to the existing CS techniques.

Methodological issues in volumetric magnetic resonance imaging of the brain in the Edinburgh High Risk Project.

PubMed

Whalley, H C; Kestelman, J N; Rimmington, J E; Kelso, A; Abukmeil, S S; Best, J J; Johnstone, E C; Lawrie, S M

1999-07-30

The Edinburgh High Risk Project is a longitudinal study of brain structure (and function) in subjects at high risk of developing schizophrenia in the next 5-10 years for genetic reasons. In this article we describe the methods of volumetric analysis of structural magnetic resonance images used in the study. We also consider potential sources of error in these methods: the validity of our image analysis techniques; inter- and intra-rater reliability; possible positional variation; and thresholding criteria used in separating brain from cerebro-spinal fluid (CSF). Investigation with a phantom test object (of similar imaging characteristics to the brain) provided evidence for the validity of our image acquisition and analysis techniques. Both inter- and intra-rater reliability were found to be good in whole brain measures but less so for smaller regions. There were no statistically significant differences in positioning across the three study groups (patients with schizophrenia, high risk subjects and normal volunteers). A new technique for thresholding MRI scans longitudinally is described (the 'rescale' method) and compared with our established method (thresholding by eye). Few differences between the two techniques were seen at 3- and 6-month follow-up. These findings demonstrate the validity and reliability of the structural MRI analysis techniques used in the Edinburgh High Risk Project, and highlight methodological issues of general concern in cross-sectional and longitudinal studies of brain structure in healthy control subjects and neuropsychiatric populations.

Optimization of auxiliary basis sets for the LEDO expansion and a projection technique for LEDO-DFT.

PubMed

Götz, Andreas W; Kollmar, Christian; Hess, Bernd A

2005-09-01

We present a systematic procedure for the optimization of the expansion basis for the limited expansion of diatomic overlap density functional theory (LEDO-DFT) and report on optimized auxiliary orbitals for the Ahlrichs split valence plus polarization basis set (SVP) for the elements H, Li--F, and Na--Cl. A new method to deal with near-linear dependences in the LEDO expansion basis is introduced, which greatly reduces the computational effort of LEDO-DFT calculations. Numerical results for a test set of small molecules demonstrate the accuracy of electronic energies, structural parameters, dipole moments, and harmonic frequencies. For larger molecular systems the numerical errors introduced by the LEDO approximation can lead to an uncontrollable behavior of the self-consistent field (SCF) process. A projection technique suggested by Löwdin is presented in the framework of LEDO-DFT, which guarantees for SCF convergence. Numerical results on some critical test molecules suggest the general applicability of the auxiliary orbitals presented in combination with this projection technique. Timing results indicate that LEDO-DFT is competitive with conventional density fitting methods. (c) 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

77 FR 4373 - Submission for OMB Review; Comments Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-01-27

... techniques and uses of other forms of technology. DATES: Comments must be received within thirty (30... investor per project. Type of Respondents: Business or other institution (except farms); not-for-profit... support, significant managerial relationship) to the projects that OPIC finances. [[Page 4374

Moments: The Foxfire Experience.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wigginton, Eliot

The high school journalism teacher who initiated the Foxfire Project discusses the memorable learning experiences and community studies in which students are involved as they develop and publish the Foxfire magazines. The author describes the project objectives and the successfully implemented teaching techniques and learning activities so that…

Science to Improve Nutrient Management Practices, Metrics of Benefits, Accountability, and Communication (Project SSWR 4.03)

EPA Science Inventory

This project will demonstrate transferable modeling techniques and monitoring approaches to enable water resource professionals to make comparisons among nutrient reduction management scenarios across urban and agricultural areas. It will produce the applied science to allow bett...

Scanning the Images of Science.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Greenberg, Richard

1992-01-01

The Image Processing Technology Project explores the possibility of using digital image processing in mathematics and science education. Describes the origin of the project and reports the results of a 4-week teacher workshop that trained over 80 teachers in the techniques and technology of image processing. (MDH)

76 FR 26716 - Notice of Submission for OMB Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-05-09

... requires recipients of ``forward funded'' grants that are awarded funds for their entire multi-year project... project success, impact and outcomes. In both the annual and final performance reports, grantees are... appropriate automated, electronic, mechanical, or other technological collection techniques or other forms of...

Self-Managed Studying in College Courses.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Edwards, K. Anthony

In an introductory psychology course, students were taught some principles of "adjustment" using self-management techniques and were required to conduct a self-management project. The four student projects reported herein were specifically designed to improve study skills through use of Premack's principle and stimulus control. Course…

Kinematic Measurement of Knee Prosthesis from Single-Plane Projection Images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hirokawa, Shunji; Ariyoshi, Shogo; Takahashi, Kenji; Maruyama, Koichi

In this paper, the measurement of 3D motion from 2D perspective projections of knee prosthesis is described. The technique reported by Banks and Hodge was further developed in this study. The estimation was performed in two steps. The first-step estimation was performed on the assumption of orthogonal projection. Then, the second-step estimation was subsequently carried out based upon the perspective projection to accomplish more accurate estimation. The simulation results have demonstrated that the technique archived sufficient accuracies of position/orientation estimation for prosthetic kinematics. Then we applied our algorithm to the CCD images, thereby examining the influences of various artifacts, possibly incorporated through an imaging process, on the estimation accuracies. We found that accuracies in the experiment were influenced mainly by the geometric discrepancies between the prosthesis component and computer generated model and by the spacial inconsistencies between the coordinate axes of the positioner and that of the computer model. However, we verified that our algorithm could achieve proper and consistent estimation even for the CCD images.

A review of risk management process in construction projects of developing countries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bahamid, R. A.; Doh, S. I.

2017-11-01

In the construction industry, risk management concept is a less popular technique. There are three main stages in the systematic approach to risk management in construction industry. These stages include: a) risk response; b) risk analysis and evaluation; and c) risk identification. The high risk related to construction business affects each of its participants; while operational analysis and management of construction related risks remain an enormous task to practitioners of the industry. This paper tends towards reviewing the existing literature on construction project risk managements in developing countries specifically on risk management process. The literature lacks ample risk management process approach capable of capturing risk impact on diverse project objectives. This literature review aims at discovering the frequently used techniques in risk identification and analysis. It also attempts to identify response to clarifying the different classifications of risk sources in the existing literature of developing countries, and to identify the future research directions on project risks in the area of construction in developing countries.

3D Modeling Techniques for Print and Digital Media

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stephens, Megan Ashley

In developing my thesis, I looked to gain skills using ZBrush to create 3D models, 3D scanning, and 3D printing. The models created compared the hearts of several vertebrates and were intended for students attending Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy. I used several resources to create a model of the human heart and was able to work from life while creating heart models from other vertebrates. I successfully learned ZBrush and 3D scanning, and successfully printed 3D heart models. ZBrush allowed me to create several intricate models for use in both animation and print media. The 3D scanning technique did not fit my needs for the project, but may be of use for later projects. I was able to 3D print using two different techniques as well.

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

Perry, F.V.; Valentine, G.A.; Crowe, B.M.

This is the final report of a one-year, Laboratory Directed Research and Development (LDRD) project at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL). The objective of this project was to determine whether isotopic techniques can be used to assess the eruption potential and eruption volume of continental stratovolcanoes. Large-volume eruptions from stratovolcanoes pose significant hazards to population and infrastructure in many parts of the world. We are testing whether this technique will allow a short- to medium-term (decades to millennia) probabilistic hazard assessment of large-volume eruptions. If successful, the technique will be useful to countries or regions that must consider medium tomore » long-term volcanic (e.g., nuclear waste facilities). We have begun sample acquisition and isotopic measurements at two stratovolcanoes, Pico de Orizaba in eastern Mexico and Daisen in western Japan.« less

Program Correctness, Verification and Testing for Exascale (Corvette)

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

Sen, Koushik; Iancu, Costin; Demmel, James W

The goal of this project is to provide tools to assess the correctness of parallel programs written using hybrid parallelism. There is a dire lack of both theoretical and engineering know-how in the area of finding bugs in hybrid or large scale parallel programs, which our research aims to change. In the project we have demonstrated novel approaches in several areas: 1. Low overhead automated and precise detection of concurrency bugs at scale. 2. Using low overhead bug detection tools to guide speculative program transformations for performance. 3. Techniques to reduce the concurrency required to reproduce a bug using partialmore » program restart/replay. 4. Techniques to provide reproducible execution of floating point programs. 5. Techniques for tuning the floating point precision used in codes.« less

LORS. Learning Oriented Reality Structure...Or How to Keep Your Sanity and Have Fun Besides in All Those Crazy Meetings!

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hollis, Joseph W.; And Others

The LORS technique is a combination of several techniques such as role projection, simulation, psychodrama, feedback, value clarification, role reversal, dramatization, decision making, process analysis, and others. The significant difference is that, when the techniques are used together, each often undergoes changes to the point that the effect…

Chemical Synthesis Coxiella Burnetti Lipopolysaccharides: Structural Studies of Coxiella Burnetti Lipopolysaccharides.

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-11-30

currently evaluating two instrumental techniques which seem highly appropriate to this LPS project, supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC) and...NEW INSTRUMENTAL TECHNIQUES AND METHODS OF APPROACH 1. Supercritical Fluid Chromatography (SFC) ............... 6. 2. SFC and Mass Spectrometry...details are discussed below in the appropriate sections. B. NEW INSTRUMENTAL TECHNIQUES AND METHODS OF APPROACH 1. Supercritical Fluid Chromatography (SFC

Assessing the Rayleigh Intensity Remote Leak Detection Technique

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Clements, Sandra

2001-01-01

Remote sensing technologies are being considered for efficient, low cost gas leak detection. An exploratory project to identify and evaluate remote sensing technologies for application to gas leak detection is underway. During Phase 1 of the project, completed last year, eleven specific techniques were identified for further study. One of these, the Rayleigh Intensity technique, would make use of changes in the light scattered off of gas molecules to detect and locate a leak. During the 10-week Summer Faculty Fellowship Program, the scatter of light off of gas molecules was investigated. The influence of light scattered off of aerosols suspended in the atmosphere was also examined to determine if this would adversely affect leak detection. Results of this study indicate that in unconditioned air, it will be difficult, though perhaps not impossible, to distinguish between a gas leak and natural variations in the aerosol content of the air. Because information about the particle size distribution in clean room environments is incomplete, the applicability in clean rooms is uncertain though more promising than in unconditioned environments. It is suggested that problems caused by aerosols may be overcome by using the Rayleigh Intensity technique in combination with another remote sensing technique, the Rayleigh Doppler technique.

Using the scenario method in the context of health and health care--a scoping review.

PubMed

Vollmar, Horst Christian; Ostermann, Thomas; Redaèlli, Marcus

2015-10-16

The scenario technique is a method for future research and for strategic planning. Today, it includes both qualitative and quantitative elements. The aims of this scoping review are to give an overview of the application of the scenario method in the fields of health care and to make suggestions for better reporting in future scenario projects. Between January 2013 and October 2013 we conducted a systematic search in the databases Medline, Embase, PsycInfo, Eric, The Cochrane Library, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cinahl since inception for the term 'scenario(s)' in combination with other terms, e.g. method, model, and technique. Our search was not restricted by date or language. In addition, we screened the reference lists of the included articles. A total of 576 bibliographical records were screened. After removing duplicates and three rounds of screening, 41 articles covering 38 different scenario projects were included for the final analysis. Nine of the included articles addressed disease related issues, led by mental health and dementia (n = 4), and followed by cancer (n = 3). Five scenario projects focused on public health issues at an organizational level and five focused on the labor market for different health care professionals. In addition, four projects dealt with health care 'in general', four with the field of biotechnology and personalized medicine, and additional four with other technology developments. Some of the scenario projects suffered from poor reporting of methodological aspects. Despite its potential, use of the scenario method seems to be published rarely in comparison to other methods such as the Delphi-technique, at least in the field of health care. This might be due to the complexity of the methodological approach. Individual project methods and activities vary widely and are poorly reported. Improved criteria are required for reporting of scenario project methods. With improved standards and greater transparency, the scenario method will be a good tool for scientific health care planning and strategic decision-making in public health.

Transportation informatics : advanced image processing techniques automated pavement distress evaluation.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-01-01

The current project, funded by MIOH-UTC for the period 1/1/2009- 4/30/2010, is concerned : with the development of the framework for a transportation facility inspection system using : advanced image processing techniques. The focus of this study is ...

Applying lean techniques in the delivery of transportation infrastructure construction projects.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-07-01

It is well documented that construction productivity has been declining since the 1960s. Additionally, studies have shown that only : 40% of construction workers time is considered to be value-added work. Interest in the use of Lean techniques ...

A Summary of the FHWA Contract Administration Techniques for Quality Enhancement Study Tour (CATQEST)

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1994-06-01

There is a widespread impression in the United States that roads and highway structures in Europe are generally superior to comparable facilities in the United States. The joint industry and government project, the Contract Administration Techniques ...

Regular Topologies for Gigabit Wide-Area Networks. Volume 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shacham, Nachum; Denny, Barbara A.; Lee, Diane S.; Khan, Irfan H.; Lee, Danny Y. C.; McKenney, Paul

1994-01-01

In general terms, this project aimed at the analysis and design of techniques for very high-speed networking. The formal objectives of the project were to: (1) Identify switch and network technologies for wide-area networks that interconnect a large number of users and can provide individual data paths at gigabit/s rates; (2) Quantitatively evaluate and compare existing and proposed architectures and protocols, identify their strength and growth potentials, and ascertain the compatibility of competing technologies; and (3) Propose new approaches to existing architectures and protocols, and identify opportunities for research to overcome deficiencies and enhance performance. The project was organized into two parts: 1. The design, analysis, and specification of techniques and protocols for very-high-speed network environments. In this part, SRI has focused on several key high-speed networking areas, including Forward Error Control (FEC) for high-speed networks in which data distortion is the result of packet loss, and the distribution of broadband, real-time traffic in multiple user sessions. 2. Congestion Avoidance Testbed Experiment (CATE). This part of the project was done within the framework of the DARTnet experimental T1 national network. The aim of the work was to advance the state of the art in benchmarking DARTnet's performance and traffic control by developing support tools for network experimentation, by designing benchmarks that allow various algorithms to be meaningfully compared, and by investigating new queueing techniques that better satisfy the needs of best-effort and reserved-resource traffic. This document is the final technical report describing the results obtained by SRI under this project. The report consists of three volumes: Volume 1 contains a technical description of the network techniques developed by SRI in the areas of FEC and multicast of real-time traffic. Volume 2 describes the work performed under CATE. Volume 3 contains the source code of all software developed under CATE.

Climate Projections and Drought: Verification for the Colorado River Basin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Santos, N. I.; Piechota, T. C.; Miller, W. P.; Ahmad, S.

2017-12-01

The Colorado River Basin has experienced the driest 17 year period (2000-2016) in over 100 years of historical record keeping. While the Colorado River reservoir system began the current drought at near 100% capacity, reservoir storage has fallen to just above 50% during the drought. Even though federal and state water agencies have worked together to mitigate the impact of the drought and have collaboratively sponsored conservation programs and drought contingency plans, the 17-years of observed data beg the question as to whether the most recent climate projections would have been able to project the current drought's severity. The objective of this study is to analyze observations and ensemble projections (e.g. temperature, precipitation, streamflow) from the CMIP3 and CMIP5 archive in the Colorado River Basin and compare metrics related to skill scores, the Palmer Drought Severity Index, and water supply sustainability index. Furthermore, a sub-ensemble of CMIP3/CMIP5 projections, developed using a teleconnection replication verification technique developed by the author, will also be compared to the observed record to assist in further validating the technique as a usable process to increase skill in climatological projections. In the end, this study will assist to better inform water resource managers about the ability of climate ensembles to project hydroclimatic variability and the appearance of decadal drought periods.

A novel approach to transformed biometrics using successive projections

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gopi, E. S.

2010-02-01

Unlike user created password, number of biometrics is limited for creating account in different organizations. Transformed biometrics attempts to solve the problem by transforming the biometric into another form, which is unique to the particular organization. This makes the availability of different transformed biometrics in different organizations transformed from the same biometrics and helps in foolproof transactions. In this article a novel approach to transformed biometrics using successive projection technique is suggested .In the proposed technique, the user can register up to 5*4n-1 organizations if the length of the biometric password is 'n'.

Coding for reliable satellite communications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gaarder, N. T.; Lin, S.

1986-01-01

This research project was set up to study various kinds of coding techniques for error control in satellite and space communications for NASA Goddard Space Flight Center. During the project period, researchers investigated the following areas: (1) decoding of Reed-Solomon codes in terms of dual basis; (2) concatenated and cascaded error control coding schemes for satellite and space communications; (3) use of hybrid coding schemes (error correction and detection incorporated with retransmission) to improve system reliability and throughput in satellite communications; (4) good codes for simultaneous error correction and error detection, and (5) error control techniques for ring and star networks.

Identification of Tools and Techniques to Enhance Interdisciplinary Collaboration During Design and Construction Projects.

PubMed

Keys, Yolanda; Silverman, Susan R; Evans, Jennie

2017-10-01

The purpose of this study was to collect the perceptions of design professionals and clinicians regarding design process success strategies and elements of interprofessional engagement and communication during healthcare design and construction projects. Additional objectives were to gather best practices to maximize clinician engagement and provide tools and techniques to improve interdisciplinary collaboration for future projects. Strategies are needed to enhance the design and construction process and create interactions that benefit not only the project but the individuals working to see its completion. Meaningful interprofessional collaboration is essential to any healthcare design project and making sure the various players communicate is a critical element. This was a qualitative study conducted via an online survey. Respondents included architects, construction managers, interior designers, and healthcare personnel who had recently been involved in a building renovation or new construction project for a healthcare facility. Responses to open-ended questions were analyzed for themes, and descriptive statistics were used to provide insight into participant demographics. Information on the impressions, perceptions, and opportunities related to clinician involvement in design projects was collected from nurses, architects, interior designers, and construction managers. Qualitative analysis revealed themes of clinician input, organizational dynamics, and a variety of communication strategies to be the most frequently mentioned elements of successful interprofessional collaboration. This study validates the need to include clinician input in the design process, to consider the importance of organizational dynamics on design team functioning, and to incorporate effective communication strategies during design and construction projects.

Integrating principles and multidisciplinary projects in design education

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nevill, Gale E., Jr.

1992-01-01

The critical need to improve engineering design education in the U.S. is presented and a number of actions to achieve that end are discussed. The importance of teaching undergraduates the latest methods and principles through the means of team design in multidisciplinary projects leading to a testable product is emphasized. Desirable training for design instructors is described and techniques for selecting and managing projects that teach effectively are discussed.

A Semester-Long Project for Teaching Basic Techniques in Molecular Biology Such as Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism Analysis to Undergraduate and Graduate Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

DiBartolomeis, Susan M.

2011-01-01

Several reports on science education suggest that students at all levels learn better if they are immersed in a project that is long term, yielding results that require analysis and interpretation. I describe a 12-wk laboratory project suitable for upper-level undergraduates and first-year graduate students, in which the students molecularly…

Joint Center for Operational Analysis Journal. Volume 12, Issue 3, Winter 2010-2011

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-01-01

building . One technique that worked well involved demonstra- tion projects such as green houses, center-pivot and drip irrigation, and grain silos...or other professional objectives such that failure is not really verifiable. A common example from foreign assistance project objectives is... professionals . Indeed, there is a long litany of far more egregious and damaging projects wholly planned and executed by development professionals

Demonstration, Developmental and Research Project for Programs, Materials, Facilities and Educational Technology for Undereducated Adults: Ohio State Module. ABE Life-Centered Curriculum Development and Teaching Technique. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Morehead State Univ., KY.

Three types of instruction were used in the Ohio Module Project: traditional classes, programmed learning centers, and home instruction. Four major objectives of the project are: (1) to determine the kind of training program necessary to prepare paraprofessionals to operate an instructional program utilizing programmed materials, (2) to compare…

Analysis and Evaluation of Processes and Equipment in Tasks 2 and 4 of the Low-cost Solar Array Project

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goldman, H.; Wolf, M.

1978-01-01

The significant economic data for the current production multiblade wafering and inner diameter slicing processes were tabulated and compared to data on the experimental and projected multiblade slurry, STC ID diamond coated blade, multiwire slurry and crystal systems fixed abrasive multiwire slicing methods. Cost calculations were performed for current production processes and for 1982 and 1986 projected wafering techniques.

A Novel Approach to Measuring Efficiency of Scientific Research Projects: Data Envelopment Analysis

PubMed Central

Zell, Adrienne; Orwoll, Eric

2015-01-01

Abstract Purpose Measuring the efficiency of resource allocation for the conduct of scientific projects in medical research is difficult due to, among other factors, the heterogeneity of resources supplied (e.g., dollars or FTEs) and outcomes expected (e.g., grants, publications). While this is an issue in medical science, it has been approached successfully in other fields by using data envelopment analysis (DEA). DEA has a number of advantages over other techniques as it simultaneously uses multiple heterogeneous inputs and outputs to determine which projects are performing most efficiently, referred to as being at the efficiency frontier, when compared to others in the data set. Method This research uses DEA for the evaluation of supported translational science projects by the Oregon Clinical and Translational Research Institute (OCTRI), a NCATS Clinical & Translational Science Award (CTSA) recipient. Results These results suggest that the primary determinate of overall project efficiency at OCTRI is the amount of funding, with smaller amounts of funding providing more efficiency than larger funding amounts. Conclusion These results, and the use of DEA, highlight both the success of using this technique in helping determine medical research efficiency and those factors to consider when distributing funds for new projects at CTSAs. PMID:26243147

Integration of a zebrafish research project into a molecular biology course to support critical thinking and course content goals.

PubMed

Felzien, Lisa K

2016-11-12

Engaging undergraduates in research is essential for teaching them to think like scientists, and it has become a desired component of classroom and laboratory instruction. Research projects that span an entire semester expose students to a variety of concepts and techniques and allow students to use experiments to learn scientific principles, understand why specific techniques are applicable, critically analyze varied data, and examine how experimentation leads to acquiring knowledge. To provide an experience with these features, a semester long research project was integrated into a combined lecture and laboratory course, Molecular Biology. The project utilized the zebrafish model to examine gene expression during embryonic development and required students to develop and test hypotheses about the timing of expression of previously uncharacterized genes. The main goals for the project were to provide opportunities for students to develop critical thinking skills required for conducting research and to support the content goals of the course. To determine whether these goals were met, student performance on the steps of the project and related pre-test and post-test questions was examined. © 2016 by The International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 44(6):565-573, 2016. © 2016 The International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.

Geographic information systems, remote sensing, and spatial analysis activities in Texas, 2008-09

USGS Publications Warehouse

,

2009-01-01

Geographic information system (GIS) technology has become an important tool for scientific investigation, resource management, and environmental planning. A GIS is a computer-aided system capable of collecting, storing, analyzing, and displaying spatially referenced digital data. GIS technology is useful for analyzing a wide variety of spatial data. Remote sensing involves collecting remotely sensed data, such as satellite imagery, aerial photography, or radar images, and analyzing the data to gather information or investigate trends about the environment or the Earth's surface. Spatial analysis combines remotely sensed, thematic, statistical, quantitative, and geographical data through overlay, modeling, and other analytical techniques to investigate specific research questions. It is the combination of data formats and analysis techniques that has made GIS an essential tool in scientific investigations. This fact sheet presents information about the technical capabilities and project activities of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Texas Water Science Center (TWSC) GIS Workgroup during 2008 and 2009. After a summary of GIS Workgroup capabilities, brief descriptions of activities by project at the local and national levels are presented. Projects are grouped by the fiscal year (October-September 2008 or 2009) the project ends and include overviews, project images, and Internet links to additional project information and related publications or articles.

Final Report on the Multicultural/Diversity Assessment Project.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ambrosio, Anthony L.

The Emporia State University Multicultural/Diversity Project developed a set of assessment instruments and a model evaluation plan to assess multicultural/diversity (MCD) outcomes in teacher education and general education programs. Assessment instruments and techniques were constructed to evaluate the impact of coursework on student attitudes,…

Issues in NASA Program and Project Management:: A Collection of Papers on Aerospace Management Issues (Supplement 11)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hoffman, Edward J. (Editor); Lawbaugh, William M. (Editor)

1996-01-01

Papers address the following topics: NASA's project management development process; Better decisions through structural analysis; NASA's commercial technology management system; Today's management techniques and tools; Program control in NASA - needs and opportunities; and Resources for NASA managers.

Biculturalism through Experiential Language Learning.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brennan, Pamela; Donoghue, Anna Acitelli

This paper describes the English as a Second Language Program developed for educationally disadvantaged Mexican-American adults as part of the educational offerings of Project Step-Up, an OEO-funded demonstration program in San Diego. Project Step-Up features a multifold methodological approach incorporating techniques from (1) life skills…

75 FR 57263 - New Policy Announcing That Traditional Horizontal Survey Projects Performed With Terrestrial...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-09-20

... DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration New Policy Announcing That Traditional Horizontal Survey Projects Performed With Terrestrial Survey Techniques Will No Longer Be Accepted for Processing or Loading Into NGS Databases AGENCY: National Geodetic Survey (NGS), National Ocean...

The Improvement of Higher Education in Indonesia: A Project Approach.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ruitjer, Kees; Utomo, Tjipto

1983-01-01

An international project for improvement of an Indonesian university's chemical engineering curriculum and later extended to other institutions and departments, included these changes: greater emphasis on discussion and problem-solving techniques, use of learning modules, introduction of criterion-referenced grading, and extended and improved…

The use of radio telemetry in Martes research: techniques and technologies

Treesearch

Craig M. Thompson; Rebecca A. Green; Joel Sauder; Kathryn L. Purcell; Richard Sweitzer; Jon Armeno

2012-01-01

Radiotelemetry was fi rst used on a Martes species in 1972, when 5 American martens ( Martes americana ) captured incidentally during a snowshoe hare ( Lepus americanus ) research project in Minnesota were radio-collared. Since then, at least 128 research projects have used radiotelemetry to investigate...

Catalog of Exemplary Projects: 1984-85.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Virginia Community Coll. System, Sterling. Inst. for Instructional Excellence.

This compilation of abstracts represents 39 projects that were funded by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia under Adapter Grants (which involve experimentation with instructional methods or techniques) or Developer Grants (which involve the implementation of a uniquely innovative teaching method or other instructional procedure).…

Recycling History: A CD-ROM Project on the Cheap.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McLachlan, Robin; Messing, John

1994-01-01

Reports on CD-ROM product that combines reference and archival material in a low-cost integrated multimedia format. Maintains that, while this project focuses on the Battle of Gallipoli in World War I, the purpose, techniques, and processes can be transferred to other historical topics. (CFR)

Boxing It Up-a Cross-curricular Approach.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Till, Wesley

1996-01-01

Reports on a class project that examined the manufacture of boxes and packaging to teach about design and technology. The class discovered basic manufacturing techniques by examining and disassembling cereal boxes. Field trips to stores provided more examples. Appraises the children's final projects and discusses acquiring materials. (MJP)

Safety factor increase to fatigue limit states through shear spiking for timber railroad bridge rehabilitation - phase I.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2014-11-01

The overall project is to demonstrate the effectiveness of shear spiking (technique alrea : dy developed : through a previous project). Many timber railroad bridges are deficient but i : t is too costly to replace them; : hence : , : inexpensive repa...

The Python Project: A Unique Model for Extending Research Opportunities to Undergraduate Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Harvey, Pamela A.; Wall, Christopher; Luckey, Stephen W.; Langer, Stephen; Leinwand, Leslie A.

2014-01-01

Undergraduate science education curricula are traditionally composed of didactic instruction with a small number of laboratory courses that provide introductory training in research techniques. Research on learning methodologies suggests this model is relatively ineffective, whereas participation in independent research projects promotes enhanced…

Evaluation of Oil-Industry Stimulation Practices for Engineered Geothermal Systems

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

Peter Van Dyke; Leen Weijers; Ann Robertson-Tait

Geothermal energy extraction is typically achieved by use of long open-hole intervals in an attempt to connect the well with the greatest possible rock mass. This presents a problem for the development of Enhanced (Engineered) Geothermal Systems (EGS), owing to the challenge of obtaining uniform stimulation throughout the open-hole interval. Fluids are often injected in only a fraction of that interval, reducing heat transfer efficiency and increasing energy cost. Pinnacle Technologies, Inc. and GeothermEx, Inc. evaluated a variety of techniques and methods that are commonly used for hydraulic fracturing of oil and gas wells to increase and evaluate stimulation effectivenessmore » in EGS wells. Headed by Leen Weijers, formerly Manager of Technical Development at Pinnacle Technologies, Inc., the project ran from August 1, 2004 to July 31, 2006 in two one-year periods to address the following tasks and milestones: 1) Analyze stimulation results from the closest oil-field equivalents for EGS applications in the United States (e.g., the Barnett Shale in North Texas) (section 3 on page 8). Pinnacle Technologies, Inc. has collected fracture growth data from thousands of stimulations (section 3.1 on page 12). This data was further evaluated in the context of: a) Identifying techniques best suited to developing a stimulated EGS fracture network (section 3.2 on page 29), and b) quantifying the growth of the network under various conditions to develop a calibrated model for fracture network growth (section 3.3 on page 30). The developed model can be used to design optimized EGS fracture networks that maximize contact with the heat source and minimize short-circuiting (section 3.4 on page 38). 2) Evaluate methods used in oil field applications to improve fluid diversion and penetration and determine their applicability to EGS (section 4 on page 50). These methods include, but are not limited to: a) Stimulation strategies (propped fracturing versus water fracturing versus injecting fluid below fracturing gradients) (section 4.1 on page 50); b) zonal isolation methods (by use of perforated casing or packers) (section 4.2 on page 57); c) fracture re-orientation and fracture network growth techniques (e.g., by use of alternating high- and low-rate injections) (section 4.4 on page 74); and d) fluid diversion methods (by use of the SurgiFrac technique, the StimGun perforation technique, or stress shadowing). This project task is to be completed in the first project year, enabling the most promising techniques to be field tested and evaluated in the second project year. 3) Study the applicability of the methods listed above by utilizing several techniques (section 5 on page 75) including, but not limited to: a) Hydraulic Impedance Testing (HIT) to determine the location of open hydraulic fractures along a open-hole interval; b) pressure transient testing to determine reservoir permeability, pore pressure, and closure stress; and c) treatment well tilt mapping or microseismic mapping to evaluate fracture coverage. These techniques were reviewed for their potential application for EGS in the first project year (section 5.1 on page 75). This study also includes further analysis of any field testing that will be conducted in the Desert Peak area in Nevada for ORMAT Nevada, Inc. (section 5.2 on page 86), with the aim to close the loop to provide reliable calibrated fracture model results. Developed through its hydraulic fracture consulting business, techniques of Pinnacle Technologies, Inc. for stimulating and analyzing fracture growth have helped the oil and gas industry to improve hydraulic fracturing from both a technical and economic perspective. In addition to more than 30 years of experience in the development of geothermal energy for commercial power generation throughout the world, GeothermEx, Inc. brings to the project: 1) Detailed information about specific developed and potential EGS reservoirs, 2) experience with geothermal well design, completion, and testing practices, and 3) a direct connection to the Desert Peak EGS project.« less

Safety analysis in test facility design

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Valk, A.; Jonker, R. J.

1990-09-01

The application of safety analysis techniques as developed in, for example nuclear and petrochemical industry, can be very beneficial in coping with the increasing complexity of modern test facility installations and their operations. To illustrate the various techniques available and their phasing in a project, an overview of the most commonly used techniques is presented. Two case studies are described: the hazard and operability study techniques and safety zoning in relation to the possible presence of asphyxiating atmospheres.

A mathematical model approach toward combining information from multiple image projections of the same patient

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chawla, Amarpreet S.; Samei, Ehsan; Abbey, Craig

2007-03-01

In this study, we used a mathematical observer model to combine information obtained from multiple angular projections of the same breast to determine the overall detection performance of a multi-projection breast imaging system in detectability of a simulated mass. 82 subjects participated in the study and 25 angular projections of each breast were acquired. Projections from a simulated 3 mm 3-D lesion were added to the projection images. The lesion was assumed to be embedded in the compressed breast at a distance of 3 cm from the detector. Hotelling observer with Laguerre-Gauss channels (LG CHO) was applied to each image. Detectability was analyzed in terms of ROC curves and the area under ROC curves (AUC). The critical question studied is how to best integrate the individual decision variables across multiple (correlated) views. Towards that end, three different methods were investigated. Specifically, 1) ROCs from different projections were simply averaged; 2) the test statistics from different projections were averaged; and 3) a Bayesian decision fusion rule was used. Finally, AUC of the combined ROC was used as a parameter to optimize the acquisition parameters to maximize the performance of the system. It was found that the Bayesian decision fusion technique performs better than the other two techniques and likely offers the best approximation of the diagnostic process. Furthermore, if the total dose level is held constant at 1/25th of dual-view mammographic screening dose, the highest detectability performance is observed when considering only two projections spread along an angular span of 11.4°.

500 MW demonstration of advanced wall-fired combustion techniques for the reduction of nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions from coal-fired boilers. Public design report (preliminary and final)

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

NONE

1996-07-01

This Public Design Report presents the design criteria of a DOE Innovative Clean Coal Technology (ICCT) project demonstrating advanced wall-fired combustion techniques for the reduction of NO{sub x} emissions from coal-fired boilers. The project is being conducted at Georgia Power Company`s Plant Hammond Unit 4 (500 MW) near Rome, Georgia. The technologies being demonstrated at this site include Foster Wheeler Energy Corporation`s advanced overfire air system and Controlled Flow/Split Flame low NO{sub x} burner. This report provides documentation on the design criteria used in the performance of this project as it pertains to the scope involved with the low NO{submore » x} burners, advanced overfire systems, and digital control system.« less

South Florida Everglades: satellite image map

USGS Publications Warehouse

Jones, John W.; Thomas, Jean-Claude; Desmond, G.B.

2001-01-01

These satellite image maps are one product of the USGS Land Characteristics from Remote Sensing project, funded through the USGS Place-Based Studies Program (http://access.usgs.gov/) with support from the Everglades National Park (http://www.nps.gov/ever/). The objective of this project is to develop and apply innovative remote sensing and geographic information system techniques to map the distribution of vegetation, vegetation characteristics, and related hydrologic variables through space and over time. The mapping and description of vegetation characteristics and their variations are necessary to accurately simulate surface hydrology and other surface processes in South Florida and to monitor land surface changes. As part of this research, data from many airborne and satellite imaging systems have been georeferenced and processed to facilitate data fusion and analysis. These image maps were created using image fusion techniques developed as part of this project.

A One-Pot Synthesis of m-Terphenyls: A Guided Exploration of Reaction Chemistry, Chromatography, and Spectroscopy. A Miniproject for the Advanced Organic Chemistry Laboratory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anam, Kishorekumar T.; Curtis, Michael P.; Irfan, Muhammad J.; Johnson, Michael P.; Royer, Andrew P.; Shahmohammadi, Kianor; Vinod, Thottumkara K.

2002-05-01

This four-week project-based laboratory exercise, developed for advanced organic chemistry students, involves a one-pot synthesis of m-terphenyls. Chemistry of aryl diazonium salts and Grignard reagents and reactivity of aryne intermediates toward nucleophilic reagents form the reaction chemistry basis for the project. The project exposes students to a number of important laboratory techniques (thin-layer chromatography, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, and column chromatography) for monitoring reaction progress and product isolation. A variety of spectroscopic techniques, including IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and attached proton test are used for product characterization. Students are also introduced to a useful empirical relationship to help predict (with considerable accuracy) the 13C chemical shift values of carbon atoms of substituted benzenes.

Apollo management: A key to the solution of the social-economical dilemma - The transferability of space-travel managerial techniques to the civil sector

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Puttkamer, J. V.

1973-01-01

An analysis has been conducted to find out whether the management techniques developed in connection with the Apollo project could be used for dealing with such urgent problems of modern society as the crisis of the cities, the increasing environmental pollution, and the steadily growing traffic. Basic concepts and definitions of program and system management are discussed together with details regarding the employment of these concepts in connection with the solution of the problems of the Apollo program. Principles and significance of a systems approach are considered, giving attention to planning, system analysis, system integration, and project management. An application of the methods of project management to the problems of the civil sector is possible if the special characteristics of each particular case are taken into account.

Going "open" with mesoscopy: a new dimension on multi-view imaging.

PubMed

Gualda, Emilio; Moreno, Nuno; Tomancak, Pavel; Martins, Gabriel G

2014-03-01

OpenSPIM and OpenSpinMicroscopy emerged as open access platforms for Light Sheet and Optical Projection Imaging, often called as optical mesoscopy techniques. Both projects can be easily reproduced using comprehensive online instructions that should foster the implementation and further development of optical imaging techniques with sample rotation control. This additional dimension in an open system offers the possibility to make multi-view microscopy easily modified and will complement the emerging commercial solutions. Furthermore, it is deeply based on other open platforms such as MicroManager and Arduino, enabling development of tailored setups for very specific biological questions. In our perspective, the open access principle of OpenSPIM and OpenSpinMicroscopy is a game-changer, helping the concepts of light sheet and optical projection tomography (OPT) to enter the mainstream of biological imaging.

Smile analysis in rhinoplasty: a randomized study for comparing resection and transposition of the depressor septi nasi muscle.

PubMed

Kalantar-Hormozi, Abdoljalil; Beiraghi-Toosi, Arash

2014-02-01

The depressor septi nasi muscle is responsible for smiling deformity. Its manipulation is beneficial in patients with muscle hypertrophy. In addition, it enhances the smile and tip-lip relationship. In this study, depressor septi nasi muscle excision through a transfixion incision is compared with its transposition through an upper labial sulcus incision. Two techniques of depressor septi nasi muscle treatment were performed randomly for rhinoplasty cases. Smile analysis in rhinoplasty, consisting of measurements of nasal length, nasal diagonal, tip projection, and upper lip height, and noting transverse upper labial crease in repose and full smile, was performed on preoperative and postoperative photographs. One hundred patients were studied in two equal groups. Preoperatively, tip projection and upper lip height were decreased significantly with smiling. Generally, the effect of smiling on all five parameters was decreased significantly following rhinoplasty. The two different techniques were not significantly different in decreasing the effects of smiling on nasal length, nasal diagonal, tip projection, upper lip height, or transverse crease. The two different techniques were the same in decreasing the effects of smiling. The authors recommend smile analysis in rhinoplasty, consisting of measurement of nasal length, nasal diagonal, tip projection, and upper lip height, and noting transverse upper labial crease in repose and during smiling, before rhinoplasty for preoperative evaluation and after the operation for outcome assessment. Depressor septi nasi muscle treatment should be considered if a decrease in tip projection or upper lip height with smiling or a transverse upper labial crease during smiling is extraordinary or unsightly. Therapeutic, II.

Feasibility of intra-acquisition motion correction for 4D DSA reconstruction for applications in the thorax and abdomen

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wagner, Martin; Laeseke, Paul; Harari, Colin; Schafer, Sebastian; Speidel, Michael; Mistretta, Charles

2018-03-01

The recently proposed 4D DSA technique enables reconstruction of time resolved 3D volumes from two C-arm CT acquisitions. This provides information on the blood flow in neurovascular applications and can be used for the diagnosis and treatment of vascular diseases. For applications in the thorax and abdomen, respiratory motion can prevent successful 4D DSA reconstruction and cause severe artifacts. The purpose of this work is to propose a novel technique for motion compensated 4D DSA reconstruction to enable applications in the thorax and abdomen. The approach uses deformable 2D registration to align the projection images of a non-contrast and a contrast enhanced scan. A subset of projection images is then selected, which are acquired in a similar respiratory state and an iterative simultaneous multiplicative algebraic reconstruction is applied to determine a 3D constraint volume. A 2D-3D registration step then aligns the remaining projection images with the 3D constraint volume. Finally, a constrained back-projection is performed to create a 3D volume for each projection image. A pig study has been performed, where 4D DSA acquisitions were performed with and without respiratory motion to evaluate the feasibility of the approach. The dice similarity coefficient between the reference 3D constraint volume and the motion compensated reconstruction was 51.12 % compared to 35.99 % without motion compensation. This technique could improve the workflow for procedures in interventional radiology, e.g. liver embolizations, where changes in blood flow have to be monitored carefully.

Implementation of quality improvement techniques for management and technical processes in the ACRV project

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Raiman, Laura B.

1992-01-01

Total Quality Management (TQM) is a cooperative form of doing business that relies on the talents of everyone in an organization to continually improve quality and productivity, using teams and an assortment of statistical and measurement tools. The objective of the activities described in this paper was to implement effective improvement tools and techniques in order to build work processes which support good management and technical decisions and actions which are crucial to the success of the ACRV project. The objectives were met by applications in both the technical and management areas. The management applications involved initiating focused continuous improvement projects with widespread team membership. The technical applications involved applying proven statistical tools and techniques to the technical issues associated with the ACRV Project. Specific activities related to the objective included working with a support contractor team to improve support processes, examining processes involved in international activities, a series of tutorials presented to the New Initiatives Office and support contractors, a briefing to NIO managers, and work with the NIO Q+ Team. On the technical side, work included analyzing data from the large-scale W.A.T.E.R. test, landing mode trade analyses, and targeting probability calculations. The results of these efforts will help to develop a disciplined, ongoing process for producing fundamental decisions and actions that shape and guide the ACRV organization .

The Application of Neutron and X-Ray Techniques to Analyze Works of Art: Examples from The Unvarnished Truth Project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

MacDonald, Brandi Lee

2017-01-01

When considered as an object, a painting consists of multiple components that, when analyzed together, have a unique story to tell about the artist, their practice, and the history of the work of art. Techniques traditionally applied in physics, including neutron-, x-radiographic and near-infrared imaging, and surface elemental analysis via x-ray fluorescence, are useful for generating significant insight into works of art. By examining the supporting material, grounds, pigments, and varnishes that a painter chose to utilize, we generate new knowledge regarding the composition, context, and decision-making involved in the creation of a work. The project `The Unvarnished Truth: exploring the material history of paintings' is an interdisciplinary initiative that incorporated the expertise of forensic art historians, conservation scientists, physicists, and biomedical engineers. Through the technical analysis of nine paintings from the McMaster Museum of Art permanent collection, we explored research questions related to painting technique, attribution, authenticity, connoisseurship, and object condition and stability. The paintings span over 500 years of European art history, and include works from Vincent Van Gogh, Alexander Rodchenko, and A. van der Neer. This project highlights the multitude of ways in which micro- and non-destructive methods can be used to answer art historical questions. This project is supported by grants from Canadian Heritage and Ontario Arts Council.

Implementation of quality improvement techniques for management and technical processes in the ACRV project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raiman, Laura B.

1992-12-01

Total Quality Management (TQM) is a cooperative form of doing business that relies on the talents of everyone in an organization to continually improve quality and productivity, using teams and an assortment of statistical and measurement tools. The objective of the activities described in this paper was to implement effective improvement tools and techniques in order to build work processes which support good management and technical decisions and actions which are crucial to the success of the ACRV project. The objectives were met by applications in both the technical and management areas. The management applications involved initiating focused continuous improvement projects with widespread team membership. The technical applications involved applying proven statistical tools and techniques to the technical issues associated with the ACRV Project. Specific activities related to the objective included working with a support contractor team to improve support processes, examining processes involved in international activities, a series of tutorials presented to the New Initiatives Office and support contractors, a briefing to NIO managers, and work with the NIO Q+ Team. On the technical side, work included analyzing data from the large-scale W.A.T.E.R. test, landing mode trade analyses, and targeting probability calculations. The results of these efforts will help to develop a disciplined, ongoing process for producing fundamental decisions and actions that shape and guide the ACRV organization .

Impact of hypoxia and the metabolic microenvironment on radiotherapy of solid tumors. Introduction of a multi-institutional research project.

PubMed

Zips, Daniel; Adam, Markus; Flentje, Michael; Haase, Axel; Molls, Michael; Mueller-Klieser, Wolfgang; Petersen, Cordula; Philbrook, Christine; Schmitt, Peter; Thews, Oliver; Walenta, Stefan; Baumann, Michael

2004-10-01

Recent developments in imaging technology and tumor biology have led to new techniques to detect hypoxia and related alterations of the metabolic microenvironment in tumors. However, whether these new methods can predict radiobiological hypoxia and outcome after fractionated radiotherapy still awaits experimental evaluation. The present article will introduce a multi-institutional research project addressing the impact of hypoxia and the metabolic microenvironment on radiotherapy of solid tumors. The four laboratories involved are situated at the universities of Dresden, Mainz, Munich and Würzburg, Germany. The joint scientific project started to collect data obtained on a set of ten different human tumor xenografts growing in nude mice by applying various imaging techniques to detect tumor hypoxia and related parameters of the metabolic microenvironment. These techniques include magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy, metabolic mapping with quantitative bioluminescence and single-photon imaging, histological multiparameter analysis of biochemical hypoxia, perfusion and vasculature, and immunohistochemistry of factors related to angiogenesis, invasion and metastasis. To evaluate the different methods, baseline functional radiobiological data including radiobiological hypoxic fraction and outcome after fractionated irradiation will be determined. Besides increasing our understanding of tumor biology, the project will focus on new, clinically applicable strategies for microenvironment profiling and will help to identify those patients that might benefit from targeted interventions to improve tumor oxygenation.

Project MEDSAT

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1991-01-01

During the winter term of 1991, two design courses at the University of Michigan worked on a joint project, MEDSAT. The two design teams consisted of the Atmospheric, Oceanic, and Spacite System Design and Aerospace Engineering 483 (Aero 483) Aerospace System Design. In collaboration, they worked to produce MEDSAT, a satellite and scientific payload whose purpose was to monitor environmental conditions over Chiapas, Mexico. Information gained from the sensing, combined with regional data, would be used to determine the potential for malaria occurrence in that area. The responsibilities of AOSS 605 consisted of determining the remote sensing techniques, the data processing, and the method to translate the information into a usable output. Aero 483 developed the satellite configuration and the subsystems required for the satellite to accomplish its task. The MEDSAT project is an outgrowth of work already being accomplished by NASA's Biospheric and Disease Monitoring Program and Ames Research Center. NASA's work has been to develop remote sensing techniques to determine the abundance of disease carriers and now this project will place the techniques aboard a satellite. MEDSAT will be unique in its use of both a Synthetic Aperture Radar and visual/IR sensor to obtain comprehensive monitoring of the site. In order to create a highly feasible system, low cost was a high priority. To obtain this goal, a light satellite configuration launched by the Pegasus launch vehicle was used.

Impact of Utilizing Pharmacy Students as Workforce for Hawai‘i Asthma Friendly Pharmacy Project

PubMed Central

Nett, Blythe; Kishaba, Gregg; Gomez, Lara

2015-01-01

A partnership was formed between the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy (DKICP) and the Department of Health to carry out the Hawai‘i Asthma Friendly Pharmacy Project (HAFPP), which utilizes pharmacy students as a workforce to administer Asthma Control Tests™ (ACT), and provide Asthma Action Plans (AAP) and inhaler technique education. Evaluation of data from a pilot project in 2008 with first and second year students prompted more intensive training in therapeutics, inhaler medication training, and communication techniques. Data collection began when two classes of students were first and second year students and continued until the students became fourth year students in their advanced experiential ambulatory care clinic and retail community pharmacy rotations. Patients seen included pediatric (32%) and adult (68%) aged individuals. Hawai‘i County was the most common geographic site (50%) and most sites were retail pharmacies (72%). Administered ACT surveys (N=96) yielded a mean score of 19.64 (SD +/−3.89). In addition, 12% of patients had received previous ACT, and 47% had previous AAPs. Approximately 83% of patients received an additional intervention of AAP and inhaler education with 73% of these patients able to demonstrate back proper inhaler technique. Project challenges included timing of student training, revising curriculum and logistics of scheduling students to ensure consistent access to patients. PMID:25755914

Impact of utilizing pharmacy students as workforce for Hawai'i Asthma Friendly Pharmacy Project.

PubMed

Ma, Carolyn S; Nett, Blythe; Kishaba, Gregg; Gomez, Lara

2015-02-01

A partnership was formed between the University of Hawai'i at Hilo Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy (DKICP) and the Department of Health to carry out the Hawai'i Asthma Friendly Pharmacy Project (HAFPP), which utilizes pharmacy students as a workforce to administer Asthma Control Tests™ (ACT), and provide Asthma Action Plans (AAP) and inhaler technique education. Evaluation of data from a pilot project in 2008 with first and second year students prompted more intensive training in therapeutics, inhaler medication training, and communication techniques. Data collection began when two classes of students were first and second year students and continued until the students became fourth year students in their advanced experiential ambulatory care clinic and retail community pharmacy rotations. Patients seen included pediatric (32%) and adult (68%) aged individuals. Hawai'i County was the most common geographic site (50%) and most sites were retail pharmacies (72%). Administered ACT surveys (N=96) yielded a mean score of 19.64 (SD +/-3.89). In addition, 12% of patients had received previous ACT, and 47% had previous AAPs. Approximately 83% of patients received an additional intervention of AAP and inhaler education with 73% of these patients able to demonstrate back proper inhaler technique. Project challenges included timing of student training, revising curriculum and logistics of scheduling students to ensure consistent access to patients.

Low dose scatter correction for digital chest tomosynthesis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Inscoe, Christina R.; Wu, Gongting; Shan, Jing; Lee, Yueh Z.; Zhou, Otto; Lu, Jianping

2015-03-01

Digital chest tomosynthesis (DCT) provides superior image quality and depth information for thoracic imaging at relatively low dose, though the presence of strong photon scatter degrades the image quality. In most chest radiography, anti-scatter grids are used. However, the grid also blocks a large fraction of the primary beam photons requiring a significantly higher imaging dose for patients. Previously, we have proposed an efficient low dose scatter correction technique using a primary beam sampling apparatus. We implemented the technique in stationary digital breast tomosynthesis, and found the method to be efficient in correcting patient-specific scatter with only 3% increase in dose. In this paper we reported the feasibility study of applying the same technique to chest tomosynthesis. This investigation was performed utilizing phantom and cadaver subjects. The method involves an initial tomosynthesis scan of the object. A lead plate with an array of holes, or primary sampling apparatus (PSA), was placed above the object. A second tomosynthesis scan was performed to measure the primary (scatter-free) transmission. This PSA data was used with the full-field projections to compute the scatter, which was then interpolated to full-field scatter maps unique to each projection angle. Full-field projection images were scatter corrected prior to reconstruction. Projections and reconstruction slices were evaluated and the correction method was found to be effective at improving image quality and practical for clinical implementation.

Time transfer techniques: Historical overview, current practices and future capabilities

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Klepczynski, W. J.

1984-01-01

A brief historical review of time transfer techniques used during the last twenty years is presented. Methods currently used are discussed in terms of cost effectiveness as a function of accuracy achievable. Future trends are also discussed in terms of projected timekeeping capabilities.

IN VITRO AND IN VIVO MUTAGENICITY STUDIES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMICALS

EPA Science Inventory

The objectives of this project were to evaluate the mutagenicity of various compounds, mostly pesticides, using microbial and mammalian cell in vitro techniques, as well as in vivo techniques in Drosophila and mice, and to further develop and refine these procedures for applicati...

X-ray Computed Tomography.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Michael, Greg

2001-01-01

Describes computed tomography (CT), a medical imaging technique that produces images of transaxial planes through the human body. A CT image is reconstructed mathematically from a large number of one-dimensional projections of a plane. The technique is used in radiological examinations and radiotherapy treatment planning. (Author/MM)

Error compensation for hybrid-computer solution of linear differential equations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kemp, N. H.

1970-01-01

Z-transform technique compensates for digital transport delay and digital-to-analog hold. Method determines best values for compensation constants in multi-step and Taylor series projections. Technique also provides hybrid-calculation error compared to continuous exact solution, plus system stability properties.

Towards a balanced software team formation based on Belbin team role using fuzzy technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Omar, Mazni; Hasan, Bikhtiyar; Ahmad, Mazida; Yasin, Azman; Baharom, Fauziah; Mohd, Haslina; Darus, Norida Muhd

2016-08-01

In software engineering (SE), team roles play significant impact in determining the project success. To ensure the optimal outcome of the project the team is working on, it is essential to ensure that the team members are assigned to the right role with the right characteristics. One of the prevalent team roles is Belbin team role. A successful team must have a balance of team roles. Thus, this study demonstrates steps taken to determine balance of software team formation based on Belbin team role using fuzzy technique. Fuzzy technique was chosen because it allows analyzing of imprecise data and classifying selected criteria. In this study, two roles in Belbin team role, which are Shaper (Sh) and Plant (Pl) were chosen to assign the specific role in software team. Results show that the technique is able to be used for determining the balance of team roles. Future works will focus on the validation of the proposed method by using empirical data in industrial setting.

Mapping cardiogenic oscillations using synchrotron-based phase contrast CT imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thurgood, Jordan; Dubsky, Stephen; Siu, Karen K. W.; Wallace, Megan; Siew, Melissa; Hooper, Stuart; Fouras, Andreas

2012-10-01

In many animals, including humans, the lungs encase the majority of the heart thus the motion of each organ affects the other. The effects of the motion of the heart on the lungs potentially provides information with regards to both lung and heart health. We present a novel technique that is capable of measuring the effect of the heart on the surrounding lung tissue through the use of advanced synchrotron imaging techniques and recently developed X-ray velocimetry methods. This technique generates 2D frequency response maps of the lung tissue motion at multiple projection angles from projection X-ray images. These frequency response maps are subsequently used to generate 3D reconstructions of the lung tissue exhibiting motion at the frequency of ventilation and the lung tissue exhibiting motion at the frequency of the heart. This technique has a combined spatial and temporal resolution sufficient to observe the dynamic and complex 3D nature of lung-heart interactions.

Application of Artificial Intelligence Techniques in Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Flight

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bauer, Frank H. (Technical Monitor); Dufrene, Warren R., Jr.

2003-01-01

This paper describes the development of an application of Artificial Intelligence for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) control. The project was done as part of the requirements for a class in Artificial Intelligence (AI) at Nova southeastern University and as an adjunct to a project at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center's Wallops Flight Facility for a resilient, robust, and intelligent UAV flight control system. A method is outlined which allows a base level application for applying an AI method, Fuzzy Logic, to aspects of Control Logic for UAV flight. One element of UAV flight, automated altitude hold, has been implemented and preliminary results displayed. A low cost approach was taken using freeware, gnu, software, and demo programs. The focus of this research has been to outline some of the AI techniques used for UAV flight control and discuss some of the tools used to apply AI techniques. The intent is to succeed with the implementation of applying AI techniques to actually control different aspects of the flight of an UAV.