Calibration and validation of a combustion-cogeneration

This paper describes the calibration and validation of a combustion cogeneration model for whole-building simulation. As part of IEA Annex 42, we proposed a combustion cogeneration model for studying residentialscale cogeneration systems based on both Stirling and internal combustion engines. We implemented this model independently in the EnergyPlus, ESP-r and TRNSYS building simulation programs, and undertook a comprehensive effort to validate the model's predictions. Using established comparative testing and empirical validation principles, we vetted the model's theoretical basis and its software implementations. The results demonstrate acceptable-to-excellent agreement, and suggest the calibrated model can be used with confidence

The development of a generic systems-level model for combustion-based domestic cogeneration

The provision of heat and power to dwellings from micro-cogeneration systems is gaining credence around the developed world as a possible means to reduce the significant carbon emissions associated with the domestic sector. However, achieving the optimum performance for these systems requires that building design practitioners are equipped with robust, integrated models, which will provide a realistic picture of the cogeneration performance in-situ. A long established and appropriate means to evaluate the energy performance of buildings and their energy systems is through the use of dynamic building simulation tools. However, until now, only a very limited number of micro-cogeneration device models have been available to the modelling community and generally these have not been appropriate for use within building simulation codes. This paper describes work undertaken within the International Energy Agency's Energy Conservation in Building and Community Systems Annex 42 to address this problem through the development of a generic, combustion based cogeneration device model that is suitable for integration within building simulation tools and can be used to simulate the variety of Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) and Stirling Engine (SE) cogeneration devices that are and will be available for integration into dwellings. The model is described in detail along with details of how it has been integrated into the ESP-r, Energy Plus and TRNSYS simulation platforms

A Qualitative Analysis of the Elements Required for the Successful Implementation of the \u27Rolling Down-Select Strategy\u27

This research explored the elements required for the successful implementation of the \u27rolling down-select strategy\u27 Inspired by Lightning Bolt 10, this study investigated five acquisitions which have or are in the process of implementing the \u27rolling down-select strategy\u27 The results suggest several elements which appear to contribute to the successful use of the \u27rolling down- select strategy\u27 These findings can be used by acquisition planners to aid in determining whether or not the \u27rolling down-select strategy\u27 is a viable strategy for their particular acquisition

Update on Geospatial Patterns of Antecedent Behavior among Perpetrators in the American Terrorism Study (ATS)

As part of the Terrorism and Extremist Violence in the United States (TEVUS) database integration effort, researchers at the Terrorism Research Center in Fulbright College at the University of Arkansas and the University of Oklahoma have been adding: 1) federal terrorism court cases and associated data and 2) incident and antecedent geospatial data from these court cases to the American Terrorism Study (ATS). The goal of the project is to examine geospatial patterns in perpetrator behavior and determine if the patterns identified in earlier studies have changed significantly. The ATS allows examination of a number of different units of analysis. Analyses may examine: (1) characteristics of federal terrorism court cases; (2) the characteristics of persons indicted in each court case or involved in incidents, otherwise referred to as indictees; (3) characteristics of incidents and planned incidents; and (4) antecedent activities that lead up to the incident and are necessary to carry it out and/or achieve the goals of the persons or groups

Is a Framework of Support Enough? Undergraduate Research for Online STEM Students

While undergraduate research is known as a high-impact practice, little research has been conducted for the online educational setting. Early research suggests that online students and faculty have similar interest in undergraduate research as their residential (face-to-face) counterparts. This point of view presents the framework of support developed for fully online students distributed globally and shares some of the challenges faced in online undergraduate research, including the issue of low recruitment (despite stated interest) that could be exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic

Guiding Undergraduate Researchers in the Virtual World: Mentoring Experiences of Globally Distributed Students

The advancement of technology has led to an increase in undergraduate students pursuing degrees online. The translation of undergraduate research to the online environment is relatively new, though gaining momentum, partly due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Mentoring is a key undergraduate research support, particularly for those engaged online, as it fosters a supportive environment for online students to develop their skills and knowledge in their field of study. This study aims to explore the positive impacts of mentoring undergraduate research for fully online students. A single case study methodology was used, with interview data collected from four research mentees completing their degrees fully online. While this study is exploratory and further research with a larger sample size is necessary, the preliminary findings suggest that virtual mentoring can lead to a stronger sense of belonging, enhanced understanding of research processes, professional development (including career path and transferable skills), and continuous personal growth. These results highlight the importance of providing research mentoring opportunities to online students

Determinants Of Mortgage Delinquency

This paper examines mortgage delinquency rates for loans in each state and Washington, DC from 2004 through 2009 in order to gain insight into the key factors that drive residential mortgage delinquency.  Models are estimated for 30-day, 60-day, 90-day, 90+ day, and all delinquency rates.  Prime and subprime loans are modeled separately in cross-sectional time series regressions.  The findings suggest that borrower income, type of loan, and the general health of the economy remain important in determining delinquency risk.  Also, factors that determine 30- and 60-day delinquency rates differ from those that determine 90-day and 90+ day delinquency rates.  In addition, factors that determine prime delinquency rates differ from those that determine subprime delinquency rates.  Finally, borrower race does not consistently explain delinquency rates.    &nbsp

A Review Of Howard Universitys Financial Literacy Curriculum

This article evaluates a financial literacy curriculum at the Howard University (HU) School of Business, by measuring the financial knowledge acquired after participating in a variety of programs. To evaluate the HU curriculum, the National Jump$tart Coalition (NJC) survey was administered to collect data on financial knowledge and demographic characteristics. Descriptive statistics and regression analysis were used to study the data. The results show that HU-Business students performance was comparable to Jump$tarts national average for college students and Business/Economics students. HU Business students scored higher than the Jump$tarts African American student sample. The regression analysis helped identity key factors that influence financial awareness for HU students including having checking account, electronic tax preparation, taking a course in personal finance or money management, GPA, and frequently balancing check book

NAV And Risk: The Case Of REITs

A study is done on Net Asset Value (NAV) of equity REITs from 1993 to 2006.  The value (growth) determination of REITs is investigated based on NAV per share as opposed to book value per share since the underlying value of the REITs’ assets (NAV) drives the trading decision.  The NAV to Market ratio (NM) is evaluated as a risk measure when used in a Fama-French and Carhart model setting.  We find this measure contributes only 0.10% to the REIT risk premium

Building Undergraduate Research in a Fully Online Engineering Program

This paper describes the creation and implementation of the support network of the Research Scholars Program at the Worldwide campus of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Funded by an NSF IUSE grant, the purpose of this new program is to increase the opportunity for online engineering and engineering technology students to participate in undergraduate research. Studies have shown that participation in research can have an important impact on students, though online students are likely underrepresented in undergraduate research. The Research Scholars Program uses existing support systems of the campus while also building new components. These new components developed for this project are a research mentoring program, a workshop series, and a guided independent study course. The Research Scholars Program formalizes the process for online students at the Worldwide campus to participate in undergraduate research with a goal of having students publish and present their work