A gradient index metamaterial

Metamaterials--artificially structured materials with tailored electromagnetic response--can be designed to have properties difficult to achieve with existing materials. Here we present a structured metamaterial, based on conducting split ring resonators (SRRs), which has an effective index-of-refraction with a constant spatial gradient. We experimentally confirm the gradient by measuring the deflection of a microwave beam by a planar slab of the composite metamaterial over a broad range of frequencies. The gradient index metamaterial represents an alternative approach to the development of gradient index lenses and similar optics that may be advantageous, especially at higher frequencies. In particular, the gradient index material we propose may be suited for terahertz applications, where the magnetic resonant response of SRRs has recently been demonstrated

The challenges and opportunities of supersonic transport propulsion technology

The major challenges confronting the propulsion community for civil supersonic transport applications are identified: high propulsion system efficiency at both supersonic and subsonic cruise conditions, low-cost fuel with adequate thermal stability at high temperatures, low noise cycles and exhaust systems, low emission combustion systems, and low drag installations. Both past progress and future opportunities are discussed in relation to perceived technology shortfalls for an economically successful airplane that satisfies environmental constraints

Minding the Body: Mind-Body Interventions for Substance Use Disorders

Substance use disorders (SUD) have a great impact on individual, social, and economic resources in the United States. In 2018, 19.3 million individuals – 7.8% of the population – aged 18 or older met criteria for SUD. There is a persistent gap in treatment needs for individuals with SUD and no single treatment approach is appropriate for everyone. Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) utilize the mind-body connection to attend to the various needs of individuals with SUD. Mindfulness practices promote emotional regulation and interoception by increasing awareness of private experiences in order to respond to those experiences in a reflective, rather than reflexive, manner. This paper presents a theoretical model and rationale for the use of MBIs for SUDand reviews several evidence-based MBIs for SUD. A discussion is offered on current limitations in the literature, barriers to implementation, and future directions for research in MBI for SUD

Community Collaboration: Furthering the Anchor Institution Concept within Linda Vista

Through University of San Diego’s new strategic plan, they seek to become a leader within higher education for community engagement. This study examines University of San Diego’s current community engagement, community engagement successes at other similar universities, and how to create a brighter future for the University and for the community of Linda Vista

Using Computational Fluid Dynamics for Predicting Hydraulic Performance of Arced Labyrinth Weirs

Our world is dynamic and as hydrologic research continues, the magnitude of flood estimates used in hydraulic design for reservoirs has increased. Consequently, many existing spillways are now undersized and unable to meet discharge requirements. These spillways often have a fixed footprint, so nonlinear weirs (e.g., labyrinth weirs) are often a viable solution. For reservoir applications, arcing labyrinth weirs in plan view increases hydraulic efficiency because of better cycle orientation to the approaching flow from the reservoir. This study supplements available physical arced labyrinth weir hydraulic data by observing flow characteristics of two numerical models (α=16°; θ=10° and α=20°; θ=30°). Both numerical models were developed using two commercially available CFD software. The purpose of the CFD analysis was to assess the appropriateness of default settings in a CFD model and to better understand CFD as a design tool for arced labyrinth weir rating curve development. Results determined that default settings are not always appropriate for a rating curve. For arced labyrinth weirs, CFD can be a useful tool for implementing site-specific conditions; however, CFD models should be calibrated to reliable laboratory or field data. This study’s data may be used, with sound engineering judgement, to aid in the design of arced labyrinth weirs

Changes in Student Wellness Behaviors after Enrollment in Health Advocacy Courses at UND

Peer/health advocacy programs are used in the college and university setting to promote health education for students. Carns, Carns, and Wright (1993) found 83% of colleges and universities used undergraduate students in peer education programs. According to Mellanby, Rees, and Tripp (2000), Peer-led education may be more effective, resulting in greater positive changes in health behaviour, than adult-led interventions (p. 543). In the spring of 2005, Dr. Alan Allery, Director of Student Health Services at the University of North Dakota (UND), envisioned implementing a peer advocacy program at UND. A review of peer/health advocacy programs at other universities revealed that a class in health advocacy prepared students to become peer leaders. Student Health Services consulted campus leaders and partners, who ultimately set forth the objectives for two new courses, Health Advocacy I & II, which were offered through a partnership between the College of Nursing and Student Health Services. Health Advocacy I was piloted fall of2006 and Health Advocacy II was piloted in spring of 2007 College students are a vulnerable population in regard to their health care. Often on their own for the first time, students are adapting to a new environment that provides greater freedom and control over their lifestyles. This becomes an opportune time to establish healthy lifestyle behaviors. College students are good candidates for health promotion and prevention education, which may have a lasting lifetime influence on their health (Ah, Elbert, Ngamvitroj, Park, & Kang, 2003). Risk behaviors of young adults identified by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) included intentional and unintentional injury, tobacco use, alcohol and drug use, sexual behaviors, unhealthy dietary behaviors and physical inactivity (CDC, 1997). The four leading causes of death among young adults are from preventable causes, motor vehicle crashes, unintentional injuries, homicide and suicide (Grace, 1997). Obesity, lack of exercise, alcohol use, tobacco use and unsafe sexual practices are preventable causes of many long-term heath related problems that occur later in life (Ah et al., 2003 ). Nola Pender\u27s Health Promotion Model (HPM) was the framework for this project. The RPM uses seven cognitive-perceptual factors and five modifying factors to explain and predict health behaviors (Pender, Murdaugh and Parsons, 2006). According to Pender et al., Awareness of benefits of adopting a healthy behavior or discontinuing a risk behavior is enhanced through seeking and processing information, observing others, and interpreting information in light of one\u27s personal situation (p.57-58). The purpose of this project was to identify a tool to evaluate the changes in health behaviors experienced by the students enrolled in the health advocacy classes. Several tools were available to test college age students\u27 wellness behaviors. The TestWell® tool, based on the Six Dimensions of Wellness (Testwell, 2000), most closely mirrors the Seven Dimensions of Wellness used at UND to promote healthy behaviors on campus Although many wellness behavior tools exist, little research has been done in the application of these tools to measure the outcomes of a health promotion class. Health educators would benefit from the expanded knowledge concerning the development of health and wellness education to students of this age level. There is currently little research available in the area of health advocacy courses offered at the college leve