Applying the proto-theory of design to explain and modify the parameter analysis method of conceptual design

This article reports on the outcomes of applying the notions provided by the reconstructed proto-theory of design, based on Aristotle’s remarks, to the parameter analysis (PA) method of conceptual design. Two research questions are addressed: (1) What further clarification and explanation to the approach of PA is provided by the proto-theory? (2) Which conclusions can be drawn from the study of an empirically derived design approach through the proto-theory regarding usefulness, validity and range of that theory? An overview of PA and an application example illustrate its present model and unique characteristics. Then, seven features of the proto-theory are explained and demonstrated through geometrical problem solving and analogies are drawn between these features and the corresponding ideas in modern design thinking. Historical and current uses of the terms analysis and synthesis in design are also outlined and contrasted, showing that caution should be exercised when applying them. Consequences regarding the design moves, process and strategy of PA allow proposing modifications to its model, while demonstrating how the ancient method of analysis can contribute to better understanding of contemporary design-theoretic issues

Method Effects and the Need for Cognition Scale

Individual differences in the need for cognition are typically assessed using the 18-item Need for cognition scale (NCS) developed by Cacioppo and Petty (1982). However, in contrast to the unidimensional model proposed by the scale developers, recent factor analyses have introduced two -and three- dimensional models of the scale. Confirmatory factor analyses were used in this study to evaluate different measurement models based on data provided by 590 (236 males, 354 females) young adult members of the general public. Although some alternative models showed promise, a single factor model with method effects associated with positively and negatively worded items provided best fit. Implications for the asses sment of need for cognition are considered

Preliminary assessment of industrial needs for an advanced ocean technology

A quick-look review of selected ocean industries is presented for the purpose of providing NASA OSTA with an assessment of technology needs and market potential. The size and growth potential, needs and problem areas, technology presently used and its suppliers, are given for industries involved in deep ocean mining, petrochemicals ocean energy conversion. Supporting services such as ocean bottom surveying; underwater transportation, data collection, and work systems; and inspection and diving services are included. Examples of key problem areas that are amenable to advanced technology solutions are included. Major companies are listed

The Impact of Structural Capital on the Innovation Performance in Syrian Universities: A Field Study in Tishreen University

This study aimed at identifying the relationship between the Structural capital and innovation performance in Tishreen University. It applies the theoretical concepts. the researcher relied survey methodology, and distribution the questionnaire to 360 individual of the members of the Teaching Staff in Tishreen University, and then make a Field Study to show this relationship, the main result of this study is that there is a positive significant relationship between the Structural capital and innovation performance. We have provided a summary of the most important results that we have accessed with the presentation of some of the proposals and recommendations to improve the relationship in order to enhance innovation performance to the members of the Teaching Staff in Tishreen University

Indirect selection criteria against clean wool colour in Corriedale sheep and their effects on wool production traits.

The potential of greasy wool colour subjective assessment Visual Colour Score (VCS) and the yellow predictive test (YPC) as indirect selection criteria for reduction of clean wool colour (CWC) in Corriedale sheep was examined. The heritability of these wool colour traits and the wool production traits, greasy (GFW) and clean fleece weights (CFW), and mean fibre diameter (MFD) and the phenotypic and genetic correlations among these traits were estimated from a Corriedale flock using AIREML procedures. A high genetic correlation between YPC and CWC was observed, indicating that YPC could be a suitable indirect selection criterium for CWC. However, direct selection against CWC was predicted to produce faster genetic improvements in CWC than that expected under indirect selection via YPC. Single trait selection based on VCS or YPC were expected to reduce the response in CWC to 51% and 49% of that estimated for direct selection. The positive genetic correlations of CWC, YPC and VCS with CFW and MFD would cause a reduction in both MFD and CFW to result from selection that reduces wool colour. The results showed that the most effective way to genetically improve CWC was through indirect selection to reduce MFD, CFW or GFW, followed by direct selection, but the premiums for CWC in the Corriedale breed may not be sufficient to justify the expected losses in CFW

Effect of medium-chain TAG and exercise on satiety, energy intake and energy balance

The present study examined whether the combination of medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) along with exercise suppress energy intake to a greater extent than either intervention alone. Twelve participants consumed a porridge breakfast containing 165 kcal 692.9 kJ of either vegetable or MCT oil on two separate occasions; one followed by rest for 240 min, one followed by rest broken up with 1h of cycling at 65% VO2peak starting at 120 min. At 240 min, participants consumed a buffet lunch to satiation, and recorded their food intake for the rest of the day. Expired air samples (for calculation of energy expenditure (EE)) and subjective ratings of appetite on visual analogue scales were taken every 30 min, and gastric emptying (GE) breath samples were taken every 15 min. There was no effect of either breakfast or exercise condition on energy intake at any time point (P>0.05) or any effect on subjective appetite ratings (P>0.05). Exercise trials resulted in significantly higher EE than resting trials (2960.6 kJ, 95% CI [2528.9, 3392.2]; P<0.001), and MCT increased resting EE over 4h compared to long-chain triglycerides (LCT) (124.8 kJ, 95% CI [13.5, 236.0]; P=0.031). GE was accelerated by exercise, regardless of breakfast, but delayed by MCT in both resting and exercise trials. The results show that exercise causes energy deficits via increased EE without promoting dietary compensation. MCT has no effect on energy intake or satiety, but increases EE under resting conditions. There is no additive effect of MCT and exercise on EE, intake, or appetite ratings