Economic modelling using constraint logic programming

This paper investigates the use of constraint logic programming (CLP) in economic modelling through the design and implementation of two economic models. The first model, the Desai- Henry model contains only linear equations while the second model, constructed by the author, contains non-linear elements. In order to implement the second model, a non-linear constraint solver was constructed. This was necessary because, although CLP is a very powerful programming paradigm, currently available implementations lack any on-linear constraint solving mechanisms

Evaluation of NASA-sponsored research on capital investment decision making in the civil aviation industry

Significant findings of three studies undertaken to provide the NASA Aircraft Energy Efficiency (ACEE) Office with information regarding how aircraft manufacturers and commercial airlines make investment decisions concerning the acquisition of new and derivative technology are analyzed and their general implications explored. Topics discussed include: the market for airline aircraft, factors affecting the corporate decision making process of air transport manufacturers, and flight equipment purchasing practices of representative air carriers

Low-temperture electrostatic silicon-to-silicon seals using sputtered borosilicate glass

Silicon members are hermetically sealed to each other. Process produces no measurable deformation of silicon surfaces and is compatible with package designs of tight tolerance. Seals have been made with glass coatings in 10-mm to 20-mm thickness range without any prior annealing of coated silicon substrates

Framework and Initial Analyses of Fertilizer Profitability in Maize and Cotton in Zambia

Inorganic fertilizers will play a role in government programs, but whether or not a single policy is valuable for all farmers depends upon the net gain for the farmers. The research here seeks to demonstrate how to answer the question “Is fertilizer profitable in Zambia for maize and cotton in the smallholder sector?” This study identifies the key components determining profitability and then sets up a framework to evaluate the probability of farmers to obtain profitable results with fertilizer use on maize and cotton. Several cases are selected and the results are evaluated. Private profitability for the farmer at market prices is discussed, leaving social profitability to other researchers. A simple method for farmers and extensionists to use to assess a fertilizer investment is given, to assist in more site specific analysis, given prices and environment.food security, food policy, Zambia, maize, cotton, fertilizer, Agribusiness, Q18,

Exploring positive adjustment in people with spinal cord injury.

This study explored adjustment in people with spinal cord injury; data from four focus groups are presented. Thematic analysis revealed four themes, managing goals and expectations, comparison with others, feeling useful and acceptance, showing participants positively engaged in life, positively interpreted social comparison information and set realistic goals and expectations. These positive strategies show support for adjustment theories, such as the Cognitive Adaptation Theory, the Control Process Theory and Response Shift Theory. These results also provide insight into the adjustment process of a person with spinal cord injury and may be useful in tailoring support during rehabilitation

Integrated carbon dioxide reduction system feasibility study, part I Final report

Method for physical recovery of carbon dioxide from space cabin atmosphere and chemical recovery of metabolic oxyge