Intelligent interaction in diagnostic expert systems

AbstractAdvisory systems help to improve quality in manufacturing. Such systems, however, both human and computerized, are less than perfect and frequently not welcome. Sharp separation between working and learning modes is the main reason for the apparent hostility of advisory systems. Intelligent interaction deploys computerized advisory capabilities by merging working and learning modes. We have developed a knowledge-based interactive graphic interface to a circuit pack diagnostic expert system. The graphic interface integrates both the domain knowledge (i.e. circuit pack) and the troubleshooting knowledge (i.e. diagnostic trees). Our interface dynamically changes the amount of detail presented to the user as well as the input choices that the user is allowed to make. These changes are made using knowledge-based models of the user and of the circuit pack troubleshooting domain. The resulting system, McR, instead of guiding the user by querying for input, monitors users actions, analyzes them and offers help when needed. McR is able both to advise “how-to-do-it” by reifying shallow knowledge from the deep knowledge, and to explain intelligently “how-does-it-work” by abstracting deep knowledge from the hallow knowledge, McR is used in conjunction with the STAREX expert sytem which is installed at AT&T factory

A review of factors that influence individual compliance with mass drug administration for elimination of lymphatic filariasis.

BACKGROUND: The success of programs to eliminate lymphatic filariasis (LF) depends in large part on their ability to achieve and sustain high levels of compliance with mass drug administration (MDA). This paper reports results from a comprehensive review of factors that affect compliance with MDA. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: Papers published between 2000 and 2012 were considered, and 79 publications were included in the final dataset for analysis after two rounds of selection. While results varied in different settings, some common features were associated with successful programs and with compliance by individuals. Training and motivation of drug distributors is critically important, because these people directly interact with target populations, and their actions can affect MDA compliance decisions by families and individuals. Other important programmatic issues include thorough preparation of personnel, supplies, and logistics for implementation and preparation of the population for MDA. Demographic factors (age, sex, income level, and area of residence) are often associated with compliance by individuals, but compliance decisions are also affected by perceptions of the potential benefits of participation versus the risk of adverse events. Trust and information can sometimes offset fear of the unknown. While no single formula can ensure success MDA in all settings, five key ingredients were identified: engender trust, tailor programs to local conditions, take actions to minimize the impact of adverse events, promote the broader benefits of the MDA program, and directly address the issue of systematic non-compliance, which harms communities by prolonging their exposure to LF. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE: This review has identified factors that promote coverage and compliance with MDA for LF elimination across countries. This information may be helpful for explaining results that do not meet expectations and for developing remedies for ailing MDA programs. Our review has also identified gaps in understanding and suggested priority areas for further research

Test, Control and Monitor System (TCMS) operations plan

The purpose is to provide a clear understanding of the Test, Control and Monitor System (TCMS) operating environment and to describe the method of operations for TCMS. TCMS is a complex and sophisticated checkout system focused on support of the Space Station Freedom Program (SSFP) and related activities. An understanding of the TCMS operating environment is provided and operational responsibilities are defined. NASA and the Payload Ground Operations Contractor (PGOC) will use it as a guide to manage the operation of the TCMS computer systems and associated networks and workstations. All TCMS operational functions are examined. Other plans and detailed operating procedures relating to an individual operational function are referenced within this plan. This plan augments existing Technical Support Management Directives (TSMD's), Standard Practices, and other management documentation which will be followed where applicable

An Intelligent Help-Desk Framework for Effective Troubleshooting

Nowadays, technological infrastructure requires an intelligent virtual environment based on decision processes. These processes allow the coordination of individual elements and the tasks that connect them. Thus, incident resolution must be efficient and effective to achieve maximum productivity. In this paper, we present the design and implementation of an intelligent decision-support system applied in technology infrastructure at the University of Seville (Spain). We have used a Case Based Reasoning (CBR) methodology and an ontology to develop an intelligent system for supporting expert diagnosis and intelligent management of incidents. This is an innovative and interdisciplinary approach to knowledge management in problem-solving processes that are related to environmental issues. Our system provides an automatic semantic indexing for the generating of question/answer pairs, a case based reasoning technique for finding similar questions, and an integration of external information sources via ontologies. A real ontology-based question/answer platform named ExpertSOS is presented as a proof of concept. The intelligent diagnosis platform is able to identify and isolate the most likely cause of infrastructure failure in case of a faulty operation

Report by International Observers on the 2016 Voter Registration Process in Somaliland

The Somaliland voter registration process began on 16 January 2016, concluding on 26 September 2016, and was conducted by the Somaliland National Electoral Commission (NEC) in all six regions of the country. International development agency Progressio, the Development Planning Unit (DPU) at University College London (UCL), and members of Somaliland Focus (UK), observed the process at different points during this period. Our international election observer (IEO) mission followed previous observations by these three organisations of Somaliland’s House of Representatives election in 2005, presidential election in 2010 and local council elections in 2012. The purpose of the 2016 mission was to inform Somalilanders and key international actors about the quality and legitimacy of the voter registration process. The credibility of the presidential elections due to take place in 2017 will depend to a great degree on the legitimacy of the biometric registry. Somaliland is the first African country to undertake biometric registration based on iris- recognition software, a process expected to safeguard against multiple registrations and voter fraud. This had been a major issue during Somaliland’s first voter registration process in 2008–10, during which different clans motivated their members to register multiple times in order to augment their numbers and political influence. There are therefore high expectations that the current register will provide a credible voters’ list. Given common and often deliberate irregularities with voter registers in other African states, and the challenges experienced during Somaliland’s previous process, having a credible register for forthcoming elections will be a major step forward for the two-decade-long process of state-building and democratisation in Somaliland – part of its quest for international recognition. Voters we interviewed also clearly made this connection, stating that voter registration is the basis for a credible election, which is in turn important for Somaliland to achieve international recognition. Overall, we assessed that the NEC conducted a highly successful registration process, which was largely peaceful, well organised and effectively managed. The work of NEC staff was characterised by goodwill and a determination to complete the registration in a professional and independent manner. Nonetheless, challenges remain. It is still unclear how the publication of the final voters’ list will proceed, and how the NEC will undertake regular updating of the voter register. The major future risks, though, appear to be political rather than technical. To date, the NEC has been keenly aware of the sensitivities attached to registration data, particularly when disaggregated to district level, and has been cautious regarding the dissemination of this information. In our view, the most significant challenge ahead relates to the eventual release of that data. The process must be handled with care, but it is also important that registration figures to the district level are released reasonably promptly so that the discussion of electoral matters – such as the siting of polling stations and parliamentary seat allocation – can take place in an informed context

A Module Experimental Process System Development Unit (MEPSDU)

Design work for a photovoltaic module, fabricated using single crystal silicon dendritic web sheet material, resulted in the identification of surface treatment to the module glass superstrate which improved module efficiencies. A final solar module environmental test, a simulated hailstone impact test, was conducted on full size module superstrates to verify that the module's tempered glass superstrate can withstand specified hailstone impacts near the corners and edges of the module. Process sequence design work on the metallization process selective, liquid dopant investigation, dry processing, and antireflective/photoresist application technique tasks, and optimum thickness for Ti/Pd are discussed. A noncontact cleaning method for raw web cleaning was identified and antireflective and photoresist coatings for the dendritic webs were selected. The design of a cell string conveyor, an interconnect feed system, rolling ultrasonic spot bonding heat, and the identification of the optimal commercially available programmable control system are also discussed. An economic analysis to assess cost goals of the process sequence is also given

Advanced EVA system design requirements study

The results are presented of a study to identify specific criteria regarding space station extravehicular activity system (EVAS) hardware requirements. Key EVA design issues include maintainability, technology readiness, LSS volume vs. EVA time available, suit pressure/cabin pressure relationship and productivity effects, crew autonomy, integration of EVA as a program resource, and standardization of task interfaces. A variety of DOD EVA systems issues were taken into consideration. Recommendations include: (1) crew limitations, not hardware limitations; (2) capability to perform all of 15 generic missions; (3) 90 days on-orbit maintainability with 50 percent duty cycle as minimum; and (4) use by payload sponsors of JSC document 10615A plus a Generic Tool Kit and Specialized Tool Kit description. EVA baseline design requirements and criteria, including requirements of various subsystems, are outlined. Space station/EVA system interface requirements and EVA accommodations are discussed in the areas of atmosphere composition and pressure, communications, data management, logistics, safe haven, SS exterior and interior requirements, and SS airlock

Shuttle Liquid Hydrogen (LH2)Engine Cut-Off (ECO)System Anomaly

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