Slotted Rotatable Target Assembley and Systematic Error Analysis for a Search for Long Range Spin Dependent Interactions from Exotic Vector Boson Exchange Using Neutron Spin Rotation

We discuss the design and construction of a novel target array of nonmagnetic test masses used in a neutron polarimetry measurement made in search for new possible exotic spin dependent neutron–atominteractions of Nature at sub-mm length scales. This target was designed to accept and efficiently transmit a transversely polarized slow neutron beam through a series of long open parallel slots bounded by flat rectangular plates. These openings possessed equal atom density gradients normal to the slots from the flat test masses with dimensions optimized to achieve maximum sensitivity to an exotic spin-dependent interaction from vector boson exchanges with ranges in the mm - μm regime. The parallel slots were oriented differently in four quadrants that can be rotated about the neutron beam axis in discrete 90°increments using a Geneva drive. The spin rotation signals from the 4 quadrants were measured using a segmented neutron ion chamber to suppress possible systematic errors from stray magnetic fields in the target region. We discuss the per-neutron sensitivity of the target to the exotic interaction, the design constraints, the potential sources of systematic errors which could be present in this design, and our estimate of the achievable sensitivity using this method

Geolocation of RF Emitters Using a Low-Cost UAV-Based Approach

The proliferation of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in both military and civilian settings has prompted great interest in finding new and innovative ways to utilize these tools. One such application is to locate ground-based radio emitters from a UAV platform. The goal of this research is to study the feasibility of a low-cost (on the order of $1000) UAV geolocation platform. To accomplish this goal, a series of both real-world flight testing and computer simulated scenarios were conducted. Simulations for different sensor uncertainties and approach path scenarios such as loiter and button hook patterns were investigated. Results showed that a high uncertainty sensor of ±10 degrees was able to reliably geolocate the target provided it could fly sufficiently close to the emitter location. For the physical testing, a commercial-off-the-shelf Doppler direction finding unit was chosen as the method of performing the geolocation. Ground testing proved promising, locating the emitter to within 20 meters. However, flight testing showed poor results and was unable to locate the target. Areas of future work that could improve upon these results include investigating how altitude and antenna orientation variations caused by the movement of the aircraft affect the performance of the direction finding unit

A Plan for Better Informing Child Care Policy Makers: Utilizing Geographical Information Systems

In order to better inform policy makers and reduce technical data interpretations, this study attempts to develop a plan which utilizes a Geographical Information System (GIS) in order to study child care accessibility within metropolitan Bakersfield, California. The proposed application of GIS is illustrated by analyzing the 1990 Census and the 1999 "Carefinder" databases. Overall, the study found that individuals residing in the Northeast region of Bakersfield seem to be more limited to accessible child care than those residents of the Southwest. This is primarily due to the fact that within the Northeast, there is a reduction in the number of licensed child care providers. The limitations and recommendations of the study revolved around currency and confidentiality of data. When current data is not made available for analysis because of confidentiality factors, this decreases the validity and reliability of the research. Therefore, it is recommended that monitoring agencies begin to develop data distribution techniques that will increase GIS users' access to more discrete and meaningful types of data. The analysis of such data will further help to better inform local policy makers about the accessibility levels of child care

Youth Crisis and Transition Services (CATS): Incorporating Family Peer Support Specialists to Assist Families During Crisis

Abstract Introduction: Crisis and Transition Services (CATS) provides transitional mental health services to high-acuity youth discharging from emergency departments (EDs). A novel component of CATS is the inclusion of a family peer support specialist (FSS) on the care team, who provides direct support to the parent or guardian in developing self-advocacy, crisis management skills, and self-efficacy in navigating systems. The FSS is not a typical role in a clinically oriented crisis program; empiric evaluation of this role can help guide quality improvements in the program and in workforce recruitment, training and support. Methods: Demographic and service data were collected from CATS providers, and families were surveyed two months after completing CATS to collect feedback and clinical outcomes (n=147). Participants were sorted into two groups: did engage with FSS (n=89) and did not engage with FSS (n=58). Predictive factors for successful engagement with a FSS were analyzed using Pearson’s chi-square tests. Descriptive statistics of services provided to families and family satisfaction ratings were also evaluated. A qualitative analysis of family feedback comments identified common themes regarding family experiences of the FSS. Results: When the FSS attended the first team meeting after intake, parents were more likely to engage with peer support χ2 (1, n = 147) = 20.60, p \u3c .001. As part of the follow-up survey, parents rated their experience with the FSS on a scale of 1 (completely unsatisfied) to 10 (completely satisfied). Over 70% (n = 65) of families rated their experience with the FSS as a 7 or above. The most prominent theme in the qualitative comment analysis was that parents had positive experiences with the FSS. The most common negative comment was that the parent didn’t understand how the FSS would be helpful or did not feel the FSS role would be useful for their family. Conclusions: The program elements that predict the likelihood of a family engaging with peer support, together with parent satisfaction ratings and feedback comments, provide insight into the successful implementation of parent peer support in a crisis program for youth. These have important implications for FSS professional and workforce development

Processes of Small Culvert Inspection and Asset Management

Proper drainage is essential for pavement to maximize life expectancy and minimize maintenance. Culverts are a critical asset to facilitate drainage. As with many assets, culverts deteriorate with age and require regular inspection. It is important to have a formalized process of inventory and inspection that is efficient and can effectively support culvert asset management. The current culvert inspection and asset management processes for the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) have been modeled over the years on the bridge inspection process and were recently evaluated. A study was undertaken to further evaluate the current culvert asset management practices. Approximately 700 small culverts and catch basins were visited and evaluated using both the traditional culvert inspection practices and a revised asset management evaluation scale. The paper summarizes the findings of this evaluation and concludes by making recommendations for process improvements. These recommendations include the addition of photos to the culvert database, a revised rating scale, advanced planning of inspection schedules, a formalized process for culvert reassessments, the creation of a separate catch basin inlet inventory, various improvements to the inventory process, and a dedicated staff to complete inspections efficiently. It is also noted that building a reliable database will show historical trends and can eventually lead to a study of small culvert inspections and culvert longevity, which will lead to improved asset management

Processes of Small Culvert Inspection and Asset Management

Proper drainage is essential for pavement to maximize life expectancy and minimize maintenance. Culverts are a critical asset to facilitate drainage. As with many assets, culverts deteriorate with age and require regular inspection. It is important to have a formalized process of inventory and inspection that is efficient and can effectively support culvert asset management. The current culvert inspection and asset management processes for the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) have been modeled over the years on the bridge inspection process and were recently evaluated. A study was undertaken to further evaluate the current culvert asset management practices. Approximately 700 small culverts and catch basins were visited and evaluated using both the traditional culvert inspection practices and a revised asset management evaluation scale. The paper summarizes the findings of this evaluation and concludes by making recommendations for process improvements. These recommendations include the addition of photos to the culvert database, a revised rating scale, advanced planning of inspection schedules, a formalized process for culvert reassessments, the creation of a separate catch basin inlet inventory, various improvements to the inventory process, and a dedicated staff to complete inspections efficiently. It is also noted that building a reliable database will show historical trends and can eventually lead to a study of small culvert inspections and culvert longevity, which will lead to improved asset management

The Walden String Quartet: Homer Schmitt, Violin; Bernard Goodman, Violin; William Magers, Viola; Robert Swenson, Cello; February 11, 1971

Capen AuditoriumFebruary 11, 19718:15 p.m