Utilizing Astrometric Orbits to Obtain Coronagraphic Images

We present an approach for utilizing astrometric orbit information to improve the yield of planetary images and spectra from a follow-on direct detection mission. This approach is based on the notion-strictly hypothetical-that if a particular star could be observed continuously, the instrument would in time observe all portions of the habitable zone so that no planet residing therein could be missed. This strategy could not be implemented in any realistic mission scenario. But if an exoplanet's orbit is known from astrometric observation, then it may be possible to plan and schedule a sequence of imaging observations that is the equivalent of continuous observation. A series of images-optimally spaced in time-could be recorded to examine contiguous segments of the orbit. In time, all segments would be examined, leading to the inevitable detection of the planet. In this paper, we show how astrometric orbit information can be used to construct such a sequence. Using stars from astrometric and imaging target lists, we find that the number of observations in this sequence typically ranges from 2 to 7, representing the maximum number of observations required to find the planet. The probable number of observations ranges from 1.5 to 3.1. This is a dramatic improvement in efficiency over previous methods proposed for utilizing astrometric orbits. We examine how the implementation of this approach is complicated and limited by operational constraints. We find that it can be fully implemented for internal coronagraph and visual nuller missions, with a success rate approaching 100%. External occulter missions will also benefit, but to a lesser degree.Comment: 28 pages, 14 figures, submitted to PAS

Value for money in schools: Report for the Audit Office

In January 2008, the Audit Commission appointed FGS, in association with the University of Southampton, to carry out a review in relation to Value for Money (VfM) in schools. Examining VfM in schools requires a detailed consideration of both the inputs and the outputs relating to the education system; in other words, the costs and benefits associated with schools. In this context, inputs are relatively straightforward to express: staffing typically represents around 70% of school costs, with the remainder comprising of operating and maintenance expenditure. However, defining the outputs from schools (pupil outcomes) is an altogether more complex task. The most tangible measure of pupil outcomes is the results they achieve in examinations. Even so, both in the UK and overseas, it is widely recognised that pupils’ levels of achievement are influenced by a range of factors other than the quality of schooling they receive (for example, their family background or their track record of achievement at earlier stages of their education). Put simply, pupils’ current levels of attainment are likely to be enhanced if they have a high level of prior educational attainment, and therefore schools may make a less significant contribution to student outcomes. In assessing the value for money which schools deliver through their day-to-day activities, it is therefore necessary to take account of the progress pupils make in their time at school (or ‘value added’ by the school), rather than just their levels of attainment, which are influenced by a host of factors other than schooling. <br/

Modified optimal control pilot model for computer-aided design and analysis

This paper presents the theoretical development of a modified optimal control pilot model based upon the optimal control model (OCM) of the human operator developed by Kleinman, Baron, and Levison. This model is input compatible with the OCM and retains other key aspects of the OCM, such as a linear quadratic solution for the pilot gains with inclusion of control rate in the cost function, a Kalman estimator, and the ability to account for attention allocation and perception threshold effects. An algorithm designed for each implementation in current dynamic systems analysis and design software is presented. Example results based upon the analysis of a tracking task using three basic dynamic systems are compared with measured results and with similar analyses performed with the OCM and two previously proposed simplified optimal pilot models. The pilot frequency responses and error statistics obtained with this modified optimal control model are shown to compare more favorably to the measured experimental results than the other previously proposed simplified models evaluated

A new prey record and range extension for Hyperaspis paludicola Schwarz and a new prey record for Microweisea misella (LeConte) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae)

The miscanthus mealybug, Miscanthicoccus miscanthi (Takahashi) (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae), is newly reported as prey for the lady beetle Hyperaspis paludicola Schwarz (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) at the Regan National Airport, Washington, DC (northern range extension). A new armored scale prey, Diaspidiotus ancyclus (Putnam) (Hemiptera: Diaspididae), for the lady beetle Microweisea misella (LeConte) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) is recorded. A range extension for Hyperaspis paludicola is reported

Growth Modelling Components of the AFFFM

When developing the AFFFM, a conscious decision was made at an early stage to populate the model with as much data as possible. By doing so it was felt that the model would be more useful to a wider range of users. A module was developed which contains information about potential growth rates, harvest ages and log prices for a number of suitable timber species for the Atherton Tableland, the Darling Downs and the New England Tableland regions of eastern Australia. Data on the potential growth rate, harvest age and product mixtures for tree species suitable for plantations on the New England Tablelands and Darling Downs were generated using the Plantgro program. Users of the model from these areas can choose to load the appropriate values for the various species by specifying the location and soil type of the planned plantation. Data on the potential growth rate, harvest age and timber price for 31 species of cabinet timbers in Far North Queensland were also included. These data were obtained from a previous survey of forestry experts undertaken by Herbohn et al. (1999). This chapter outlines the process through which growth data used in the AFFFM were collected

Cloning, expression, and localization of a rat brain high-affinity glycine transporter

A cDNA clone encoding a glycine transporter has been isolated from rat brain by a combined PCR and plaque-hybridization strategy. mRNA synthesized from this clone (designated GLYT1) directs the expression of sodium-and chloride-dependent, high-affinity uptake of [3H]glycine by Xenopus oocytes. [3H]Glycine transport mediated by clone GLYT1 is blocked by sarcosine but is not blocked by methylaminoisobutyric acid or L-alanine, a substrate specificity similar to that described for a previously identified glycine-uptake system called system Gly. In situ hybridization reveals that GLYT1 is prominently expressed in the cervical spinal cord and brainstem, two regions of the central nervous system where glycine is a putative neurotransmitter. GLYT1 is also strongly expressed in the cerebellum and olfactory bulb and is expressed at lower levels in other brain regions. The open reading frame of the GLYT1 cDNA predicts a protein containing 633 amino acids with a molecular mass of ≈70 kDa. The primary structure and hydropathicity profile of GLYT1 protein reveal that this protein is a member of the sodium- and chloride-dependent superfamily of transporters that utilize neurotransmitters and related substances as substrates

Secular Changes in Eta Carinae's Wind 1998-2011

Stellar wind-emission features in the spectrum of eta Carinae have decreased by factors of 1.5-3 relative to the continuum within the last 10 years. We investigate a large data set from several instruments (STIS, GMOS, UVES) obtained between 1998 and 2011 and we analyze the progression of spectral changes in the direct view of the star, in the reflected polar-on spectra at FOS4, and at the Weigelt knots. We find that the spectral changes occurred gradually on a time scale of about 10 years and that they are dependent on the viewing angle. The line strengths declined most in our direct view of the star. About a decade ago, broad stellar wind-emission features were much stronger in our line-of-sight view of the star than at FOS4. After the 2009 event, the wind-emission line strengths are now very similar at both locations. High-excitation He I and N II absorption lines in direct view of the star strengthened gradually. The terminal velocity of Balmer P Cyg absorption lines now appears to be less latitude-dependent and the absorption strength may have weakened at FOS4. Latitude-dependent alterations in the mass-loss rate and the ionization structure of eta Carinae's wind are likely explanations for the observed spectral changes.Comment: 42 pages, 12 figures, 2 table

A simulation study of the flight dynamics of elastic aircraft. Volume 2: Data

The simulation experiment described addresses the effects of structural flexibility on the dynamic characteristics of a generic family of aircraft. The simulation was performed using the NASA Langley VMS simulation facility. The vehicle models were obtained as part of this research project. The simulation results include complete response data and subjective pilot ratings and comments and so allow a variety of analyses. The subjective ratings and analysis of the time histories indicate that increased flexibility can lead to increased tracking errors, degraded handling qualities, and changes in the frequency content of the pilot inputs. These results, furthermore, are significantly affected by the visual cues available to the pilot

Mid-Cycle Changes in Eta Carinae

In late 2006, ground-based photometry of $\eta$ Car plus the Homunculus showed an unexpected decrease in its integrated apparent brightness, an apparent reversal of its long-term brightening. Subsequent HST/WFPC2 photometry of the central star in the near-UV showed that this was not a simple reversal. This multi-wavelength photometry did not support increased extinction by dust as the explanation for the decrease in brightness. A spectrum obtained with GMOS on the Gemini-South telescope, revealed subtle changes mid-way in $\eta$ Car's 5.5 yr spectroscopic cycle 0when compared with HST/STIS spectra at the same phase in the cycle. At mid-cycle the secondary star is 20--30 AU from the primary. We suggest that the spectroscopic changes are consistent with fluctuations in the density and velocity of the primary star's wind, unrelated to the 5.5 yr cycle but possibly related to its latitude-dependent morphology. We also discuss subtle effects that must be taken into account when comparing ground-based and HST/STIS spectra.Comment: 34 pages, 9 Figure

Intelligent monitoring of the health and performance of distribution automation

With a move to 'smarter' distribution networks through an increase in distribution automation and active network management, the volume of monitoring data available to engineers also increases. It can be onerous to interpret such data to produce meaningful information about the health and performance of automation and control equipment. Moreover, indicators of incipient failure may have to be tracked over several hours or days. This paper discusses some of the data analysis challenges inherent in assessing the health and performance of distribution automation based on available monitoring data. A rule-based expert system approach is proposed to provide decision support for engineers regarding the condition of these components. Implementation of such a system using a complex event processing system shell, to remove the manual task of tracking alarms over a number of days, is discussed