14878 research outputs found
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Generation of Internal Combustion Engine Maps and Spark Timing Profiles Using Metamodels
No full textWith the growth of computing technologies, many leading automotive companies tend to use simulation tools to reduce the number of actual engine testing for evaluating the performance of Internal Combustion (IC) engines. However, a high-fidelity engine model which is very complex and computationally demanding, is needed. In this dissertation, we present efficient and accurate metamodels to predict an engine fuel map and to also obtain the spark timing profile to generate a specified torque curve. Time-dependent Kriging metamodels using Singular Value Decomposition (SVD) and Nonlinear Autoregressive metamodels with Exogenous inputs (NARX) in conjunction with Neural Networks (NN) are developed and used. A sequential process was first developed to generate steady-state engine fuel maps using Kriging accounting for different engine characteristics at different operating conditions. The generated map predicts engine output parameters such as Brake Mean Effective Pressure (BMEP) and fuel flow rate. The Kriging metamodels are created sequentially to ensure acceptable accuracy with a small number of expensive engine simulations. Two optimization problems are solved for full load and part load conditions, respectively. We demonstrate that the estimated fuel map is of high accuracy compared to the actual map. The internal combustion engine is a source of unwanted vehicle vibration produced by engine mount forces which depend on the engine torque profile during a transient tip-in or tip-out maneuver. A methodology was also developed to obtain the desired engine torque profile to minimize the unwanted vibration by controlling a set of engine calibration parameters. A set of design coefficients defining a spark timing profile and the corresponding engine torque profiles are used to construct time-dependent metamodels using SVD and Kriging. The accuracy of the approach is demonstrated using GT-Power engine simulations. In addition, we developed a time-dependent NARX-NN metamodel to predict engine spark timing and cylinder pressure profiles corresponding to a desired torque profile. The NARX-NN metamodel predicts the spark timing accurately using a very small number of engine simulations
An Evaluation of Soccer for Success
No full textSoccer for Success is a program implemented by the Sheriff PAL (Police Athletic League) program in the city of Pontiac in order to provide life skills for healthy living to children. The program aims to teach elementary aged kids valuable life skills through soccer. Many of the youth that participate in Soccer for Success are from low-income households. This thesis will use research to evaluate the pre-existing Soccer for Success program and provide knowledge about the effectiveness of the program and how it influences participating students. The results will likely benefit the PAL and provide valuable information about improvements that can be made to the program. In addition, it will provide information for similar programs to be implemented in other underserved populations
Oakland University Alumni Magazine, Spring 2022
No full textNostalgia: Look inside to explore the historic Gate Lodge, OU's 25th anniversary, the evolution of student attire and more ; Celebrating 40 years of the OU Magazine ; Alumni voices ; A look back: OU's 25th anniversary; the struggles and triumphs of the early 80s ; In the gold seat with Robert Gaylor ; The gatekeepers: Alumni and philanthropists spearhead project to restore the history of the Gate Lodge ; All rise: A conversation with the Honorable Judge Rena Marie Van Tine ; The evolution of attire: Student dress through the decades brings history to life ; Hall of memories ; Picture of empowerment: Glamming with four alumni who are doing it all ; Campus highlights ; Legends of OU ; An easy decision ; Three-peat ; Research ; Academic spotlight ; OU Momen
Human Trafficking: Policies and Preventative Measures
No full textThe prevalence of human/sex trafficking in the United States is a concerning issue in society. This study looks at human/sex trafficking preventative policies and organizations and their effectiveness in small- or large-scale communities. Additionally, it looks at the methods utilized by these policies and organizations. This study will systematically analyze and compile findings from peer-reviewed evaluation research on the effectiveness of human/sex trafficking preventative measures. This study provides a comprehensive overview of various human/sex trafficking preventative measures and their effectiveness. This overview intends to provide knowledge that can be used by policymakers, practitioners, and the general public further to advance the prevention of human/sex trafficking
"My Coach Got Me Excited About Literacy Even Through This Tough Year": Teachers and Coaches' Experiences in an Early Literacy Coaching Program
No full textFor over 100 years, reading has been a critical topic of discussion in the educationfield. Theories have been developed and revised on how children learn to read and as more research was completed (Crawford, 1995). Literacy and reading scores around the United States have been low for over ten years. In 2019, only 32% of 4th graders nationwide have been proficient in reading (NCES, 2020). Many states have developed laws around reading proficiency targeted at reaching reading proficiency by the end of third grade. Including Michigan's, the Read by Grade Three Law (Act 306 of 2016: MCL380.1280f,2016). In Michigan, the Michigan Association of Intermediate School District Administrators in collaboration with early literacy experts created the Essential Instructional Practices in Early Literacy (MAISA, 2016a). One county in Michigan developed a literacy coaching program for prekindergarten teachers. This coaching program was the basis for this dissertation research that explores teacher and coach experiences in the program. This research was completed as a mixed-methods case study, using both quantitative and qualitative data sources. Surveys and interviews gathered perspectives of the coaches and teachers on coaching strategies that were effective for them. In addition, the perception of the quality of relationship between the coach and teacher was investigated. Coaching was completed virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic and participants shared their experiences with navigating coaching, teaching, and using technology in new ways. Survey and interview data was analyzed using in-vivo coding to explore initial categories and then themes. The study describes a variety of coaching strategies that coaches and teachers found effective. I also compare the reported impact of an in person versus virtual coaching on teachers’ literacy practices. Constructive feedback was not only the strategy reported as used most often, but also it was perceived to have the most impact on teaching practices by both coaches and teachers. Teachers’ strong relationship with coaches affected their success; those reporting a stronger relationship also reached also their goals and gained new knowledge from the coaching program. Resources and difficulties faced varied for the teachers; these ranged from materials, budget, and available staff
Lavender Oil Aromatherapy as a Nursing Intervention for Anxiety in Hemodialysis Patients
No full textThis literature review explores the impact of lavender oil aromatherapy via inhalation on anxiety levels amongst patients with chronic kidney disease undergoing hemodialysis treatment. In recent years, the use of aromatherapy has become more prominent in hopes of decreasing undesirable symptoms such as stress/anxiety and improving other aspects such as sleep. Moreover, many patients, whether in-patient at a hospital or out-patient at a clinic, experience some level of anxiety when going to receive their care. The question to be addressed is does lavender oil aromatherapy via inhalation have an impact on anxiety levels in patients with chronic kidney disease undergoing hemodialysis treatment? To answer this question, a literature review was conducted, and many studies showed that lavender oil aromatherapy has a positive influence on anxiety levels
The Prevalence of Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting Following Cardiac Surgery and Evidence-Based Guidelines to Prevent
No full textPostoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) continues to cause concern and side effects for patients following general anesthesia. Extensive research and recommendations exist guiding care for non-cardiac surgery patients. Evidence is, however, limited for cardiac surgery patients due to risks of QT prolongation, arrhythmias, and the use of fast-track anesthesia. Cardiac surgery patients present unique challenges due to their increased risk of arrhythmias and opioid requirements. Research supports utilizing the Apfel risk scoring system to determine which cardiac surgery patients should receive prophylactic medication. Routine antiemetics are not appropriate in the cardiac surgery population, but the developed Apfel with cardiac indicators tool can be utilized to treat patients based on their risk level. The study’s purpose was twofold, first to determine the prevalence of PONV and assess for statistically significant relationships and second to develop a risk assessment tool. The following variables were examined for significant effects: opioid dosage, presence of arrhythmias, QT prolongation, and times between postoperative milestones.
A retrospective chart review of 100 patients was completed. In total, 46% (n = 46) of patients reported feeling nauseated after surgery, 11% (n = 11) reported to have vomited, and 49% (n = 49) received at least one dose of a rescue antiemetic. Gender was the only significant predictor of PONV (p=.021). Opioid dosage was not found to be associated with reports of nausea (p= .467). Study results coincide with previously published research and identifies a need for prophylactic treatment of PONV in the cardiac surgery population. The authors recommend utilization of the Apfel with cardiac indicators tool to guide risk factor assessment and prophylactic treatment