This study contributes a methodology and associated toolkit developed to allow users to experiment with the use of combined features in classification problems. Methods are provided for efficiently generating combined features from an original feature set, for efficiently selecting the most discriminating of these generated combined features, and for efficiently performing a preliminary comparison of the classification results when using the original features exclusively against the results when using the selected combined features. The potential benefit of considering combined features in classification problems is demonstrated by applying the developed methodology and toolkit to three sample data sets where the discovery of combined features containing new discriminating information led to improved classification results.

The purpose of this project was to optimise a diesel engine converted to operate on natural gas, to suit the requirements for: low emissions, a high efficiency and sufficient power delivery within the constraints of cogeneration (combined heat and power) systems. Cogeneration Installations seek to improve the efficiency of power generation by utilising waste heat from the prime mover, as well as the production of electricity. Many small scale systems are based on open chamber gas engines, and, to reduce the payback time for the installation, the overall engine efficiency is of prime importance. Stationary engines can be subject to strict standards for emissions, the greatest challenge being presented by the control of NO emissions. The main difficulty is that the highest efficiency operating point of a spark ignition engine is also the point of maximum NO emissions. The extent of this problem was analysed by conducting tests across the entire operating map of the baseline engine at the required speed of 1500 rpm. The solution, in the form of a new high compression ratio combustion system was based on the following: An extensive literature review, the previous Brunel experience with gas engines, an evaluation of the baseline combustion and emissions performance, and the predictions of the Integrated Spark Ignition engine Simulation (ISIS) thermodynamic model. Tests were conducted on the new Fast Bum High Compression Ratio combustion system at compression ratios of 15:1 and 13:1, which demonstrated an extended lean burn capability such that an operating point was identified, that satisfied the conflicting requirements of: low emissions (less than 1g NOx/kWh or 360mg/m3), and a high brake efficiency (above 30%), as well as particular cogeneration criteria. The bmep was mostly above 6 bar. After further tuning and calibration with experimental data, the ISIS model was used to predict the engine power output, efficiency and emissions (NOx and CO) for the compression ratio of 15:1, across the entire operating map for both naturally aspirated and turbocharged configurations. The naturally aspirated results showed good agreement with the results of the experimental 15:1 FBHCR combustion system. The turbocharged engine was simulated with a bmep of 10 bar. The results identified much larger operating areas and all emissions limits were met above a brake efficiency of 36%. The conclusions are, that an open chamber fast bum high compression ratio combustion system can achieve very low emissions, particularly of NOx, and a high efficiency by having the capability of operating with lean enough mixtures. Further improvement in the efficiency is likely if other engine parameters (such as the valve timing) were to be optimised for 1500 rpm. The results from the turbocharged simulation show that turbocharging, whilst restoring the output can also achieve low emissions, and a higher efficiency than a naturally aspirated engine.

Theses (M.S.)--Marshall University, 2007. / Title from document title page. Includes abstract. Document formatted into pages: contains iv, 72 pages. Bibliography: p. 57-60.

The current body of research has used positivistic approaches to establish performance related variables emerging from various levels of play associated with technical and tactical parameters within elite football. However there is a dearth of knowledge considering how information derived from performance analysis (PA) techniques has been implemented within elite football environments. As a result the purpose of this thesis was to explore the focus of analysis by coaches and analysts and subsequently how PA techniques and approaches were utilised within sporting environments to facilitate this. In order to address this area of research, five chapters were completed to build upon the existing literature and create new knowledge in the area. In doing this a combination of quantitative and qualitative approaches were developed in the studies identified below. Chapter One: The initial literature review investigated how the evolving role of PA and the associated proliferation of positions and internships within high performance sport have driven consideration for change, or at least wider use of PA. In order to explore the evolution of PA from both an academic and practitioner perspective this study considered the wider conceptual use of PA. The key aim of the chapter was to provide a critical review of the use of PA and considerations for practice. This section acts as a grand literature review to set the context for a number of key themes explored in the subsequent chapters of the thesis. Chapter Two included two parts, the primary aim was to investigate the PA tools and approaches employed by sports coaches and analysts and their perception of its value. Study One Part A focused on the coaches’ approaches. Method: A stratified sample of forty-six coaches were selected to complete an online-survey relating to their engagement with match, notational and technique analysis. Results: Most coaches (68%) were provided with a DVD or edited clips after every game, whilst 16% would receive this service following most games. 64% of coaches used PA tools to provide video clips for other coaches and their support staff, 68% provide a video of the opposition, 64% collate quantitative game data and 55% use PA to create video based motivational DVD’s. Just under half of the coaches (43%) would use some form of live coding and analysis during games, whilst 39% would also receive a written post report including game statistics. PA information informed the coaches’ short term planning (93%), medium term planning (80%) and long term planning (70%). 91% of coaches identified that their coaching philosophy would impact on their selection of KPIs, whilst 43% also identified that their ‘gut instinct’ would often impact on their selection. Discussion: The key findings from this study provided specific insight relating to how coaches engage with PA approaches. In particular, these findings inform specifically on how PA impacts on their coaching practices within a number of different contexts. Study One Part B, identified the role which performance analysts play within football clubs and how these roles differ within professional and academy settings. Comparisons were drawn between the two levels because of the potentially varied approaches. This study also addressed the dearth of research regarding the role of match analysts, in relation to the provision of feedback via match and notational analysis techniques and systems. Method: An exploratory study was conducted using an online questionnaire formed using knowledge collected from current match analysts working in elite football, academics working within the areas of PA (tutors who teach PA and interact with student and analyst employers within football clubs) and from the current literature. The questionnaire was completed by 48 match analyst practitioners working within elite football clubs. 32 of the analysts were predominantly working in a professional team setting, while 16 were predominantly working in an academy setting. Results: When comparisons were made between the two groups of analysts a number of key differences were identified in relation to the provision of pre-match feedback, post-match feedback and the value the analysts gave to certain PA approaches. Discussion: Further insight has been provided into the importance of the role that analysts play in enhancing the observation, analysis and feedback strategies employed by elite level football teams. The key findings established within Chapters One and Two provided a platform to establish themes which would be central in informing interview discussion points in the subsequent phase of data collection. Chapter Three: Study Two quantified and described player perceptions of PA. Despite the wider spread employment of PA within the coaching process little, if any, consideration has been given to the context in which PA delivery takes place and subsequently impacts on the players receiving such information. The objective of the study was to identify player perceptions of PA use within football environments. Method: A mixed methodology was employed, 48 male footballers from three different English Championship Football Clubs completed an online questionnaire. Following this 22 players were selected using an opportunistic sample to complete a semi-structured interview. Results: Individual perceptions and practical realities surrounding the different consumers’ interaction with PA were explored during interviews and the results were analysed and presented using hierarchical content analysis. Discussion: Through the systematic analysis three important features emerged, all of which were consistent across all clubs and standards of play: (1) the level of debate and player interaction differed greatly during video feedback sessions, (2) the use of video analysis is central to player self-reflection but the level of engagement with self-reflection varied across players, (3) The majority of players preferred some delay before receiving video feedback. These factors have provided further insight to the practical contexts in which PA is used and perceived by elite players. Only limited consideration has been given to how coaches might view performance and how this is translated into analysis, match insight and subsequent behavioural change. To address these shortcomings Chapter four (Study Three Part A) attempted to provide an understanding of the individual perceptions of coaches and analysts, how they view performance, and thus work jointly to conduct subsequent analysis. Reflecting these factors Study Three Part A aimed to: (1) Establish what factors elite coaches and performance analysts value in terms of their assessment of performance; (2) To examine the congruency between the values and philosophies of coach and analyst with specific reference to how they view and assess performance. Method: A sample of 25 coaches and 23 analysts from 5 clubs across the top 3 tiers of English domestic football were interviewed to establish the use of PA within their club. Results/Discussion: The hierarchical content analysis established 71 higher order themes and 287 lower order data themes from the results. Key themes which emerged suggested that central to congruence were factors related to role clarity, effective communication and discussion via the means of post and pre-match reviews. A central concept to congruence was the extent of the ‘buy in’ by each coach to the process and content associated with PA, and fundamental to this was the rapport and trust established within these relationship groups. A number of important concepts were also identified relating to what factors were valued in terms of their assessment of performance. In a number of instances dissonance was identified between a coach’s conceptual description of their philosophical approaches and their practical utilisation of PA and their analysts. / Currently little is known about the specific and effective integration of analysis in an applied setting within high performance football clubs. As a result Study Three Part B was primarily concerned with the practical issues and solutions coaches and analysts face when implementing PA techniques within their everyday practice within football clubs. Specifically this thesis was concerned with exploring how elite coaches and analysts employ PA techniques in practice and how their PA strategies facilitate feedback, planning and preparation for performance. Results/Discussion: Hierarchical content analysis established 72 high order themes and 308 lower order themes. PA clearly had an impact within a number of applied practices within football clubs, these included: pre and post-match planning, transfer of PA information into deliberate practices and the setting and monitoring of individual and team training objectives. Evidence also established that performance analytics were employed in reviewing a range of sports science related information to answer key performance questions each club might have. PA was central in the use of feedback, de-briefing and pre-match opposition meetings. Despite this the extent to which coach and analyst had an understanding of pedagogical issues surrounding the delivery of such sessions varied greatly. This model presented an overview of the factors impacting on the implementation of PA within the football environments investigated.

Partnering is a broad term used to describe an integrated team working approach; and integration means combining various elements into a whole. Partnering became popular within the UK construction industry largely as a result of two distinct 1990 reports (i.e. Latham, 1994 and Egan, 1998). The corollary of this relied to some extent on parties being dependent upon one another for success whether this arrangement was for a one off project or a longer term relationship over a number of projects. Partnering was also proffered as a vehicle for providing greater efficiencies and a higher ‘value’ through an agreement where a set of actions could help project teams improve their conjoined performance. The partnering approach was seen as an agreement that endorsed better collaboration, engendered mutual trust and team working, whilst also creating a platform for sharing both risk and rewards. Therefore, whilst not meant to be a fixed way of working per se, it was acknowledged from the outset that certain cultural, attitudinal and procedural changes would be required throughout the relevant supply chain. This to enable partnering to develop as project teams evolved within their relationships in order to find the most effective ways of achieving agreed objectives. Meaning partnering was about achieving ‘best value’ for all parties. Yet, while the positive aspects of partnering have been espoused in extant literature, covering various industry sectors, including: manufacturing, retail and construction; there was no explicit definition as to what partnering was [specifically] within the UK construction industry, or what it was supposed to achieve. Considerable debate therefore continues to challenge the partnering paradigm, for as it remains unestablished with limited systematising or standardisation, organisations commonly communicate with those one tier removed. As a result, the UK construction industry remains relatively unchanged despite successive reports, recommendations and potential collaborative solutions. Thus organisations continue to pursue their own self-interests to such an extent that ‘true’ collaborative working is often rendered impossible to achieve. This has had a negative impact on the industry as a whole, including the supply chain. In summary therefore, the industry still remains fragmented, adversarial and divided, which impedes communication, trust and a willingness to embrace the true ‘spirit’ of partnering per se. The study, taking a pragmatic post-positivist stance, focuses on four key disciplines (Client, Consultant, Main Contractor and Sub-contractor). The rationale supporting this approach endeavoured to capture actors and context, such that observations and research findings could be grounded and linked back to theory generation. An explicit mixed method research methodological approach was adopted in this research to purposefully explore phenomena and reason, especially to increase understanding and affirmation in respect of the partnering paradigm. This engaged both quantitative and qualitative approaches which engaged domain practitioners across the four disciplines. Content analysis of that qualitative data provided a vehicle for mapping the fabric, resilience and veracity of the core partnering drivers. This helped develop the second phase of the measuring instrument. Accordingly, theoretical codes were then generated and subsequently administered to 40 individual companies across the four disciplines. Purposive sampling was then used to select two case studies for data capture and model explication. Quantitative data analysis was then used to evaluate a series of drivers and variables. These were then mapped into a conceptual process model using an iterative approach (within the case studies) to affirm process conformity, accuracy and relevance. The model was then tested and validated with independent domain experts to ensure cogency (internal/external), reliability (inter-rater/observer) and homogeneity (consistency). This work presents a new conceptual model for strengthening and supporting the partnering paradigm; which, it is proffered will open up new discourse in both theory and practice. The philosophical underpinnings of this work support the concepts of sustained partnering growth, through guidance, governance and commonality. It presents stakeholders with a systematised and standardised approach to supply chain collaboration. The conceptual model identifies eight key drivers, the granularity of which highlight dynamic drivers, dependencies and relationships needed to support and promote ‘true’ partnering. The causal relationships and dependencies embody different organisational ‘cultures’ where partnering parties can work together regardless of their perceived dominance and/or tier position. Thus, the entire supply chain can be actively and more purposefully engaged in the partnering paradigm the full potential of partnering. Moreover, as the success of partnerships depends to a large extent on selecting appropriate partners; there is a concomitant need to evaluate the ‘quality’ of these relationships. The conceptual partnering model presented in this thesis offers new insight into these dynamic relationships. In doing so, it offers readers detailed evidence for further reflection – specifically cognisant of partnering organisations’ different perceptions, positioning and responsibilities for making the partnering ethos work in practice.

Obesity and physical inactivity have been identified as risk factors for knee pain in elderly populations. There has been an increase in the prevalence of obesity and physical inactivity in younger adults. Therefore, it is important to investigate whether they are risk factors for knee disorders among young adults. This thesis explored the epidemiology of knee problems in young adults. A literature review, using systematic methods, identified 19 studies reporting on the incidence of and/or risk factors for knee disorders in young adults. Knee disorder incidence varied across studies (0.07% to 42.0%), because of the different knee conditions and study populations (military and sports) investigated. There was conflicting evidence on whether obesity and physical activity were risk factors for knee disorders; and physical inactivity had not been investigated. A longitudinal study was undertaken to estimate the incidence of knee problems in young adults and explore whether physical activity, physical inactivity and obesity were risk factors. It was designed as a feasibility study to inform a large-scale cohort study in the general population. Three hundred and fourteen staff and students of the University of Central Lancashire, Preston campus were recruited and followed up for 12 months. Data was collected through self-report questionnaire and where possible direct measurement of weight and height was taken. Logistic regression was used to investigate any plausible relationship between knee problems and body mass index (BMI), physical inactivity, and physical activity levels. The mean (SD) age was 22 (5.2) years. There were more men (n=176, 56.1%) than woman (n=138, 43.9%). At baseline, the mean (SD) score for the Hopkins Symptoms Checklist-10 (mental distress) was 1.5 (0.4); mean (SD) BMI was 24.3 (4.1) and mean (SD) total hours spent sitting per day was 5.6 hours (2.6). Over half of the participants (n=165, 52.9%) reported low physical activity with similar proportions reporting moderate (n= 75, 24.0%), and high (n= 72, 23.1%) physical activity levels. The prevalence of knee problems was high (31.8% [95% CI 26.9% to 37.2%]); knee pain was the most prevalent symptom. Multivariate logistic regression analysis on cross- sectional data showed that high physical activity levels (OR 2.6 [95% CI 1.4-4.9]) and mental distress (OR 2.3 [95% CI 1.2-4.6]) were independent risk factors. Only 126 (40.1%) participants responded to the follow up at 12 months: 76.9% still had knee problems and 11.5% had a new knee problem. Knee problems are common in young adults. The study provided an estimate of incidence to inform the design of a large-scale population based study but attention needs to be paid to ensure lower attrition. The study suggests that more attention may need to be paid towards prevention of knee problems and that further work on the economic burden of knee problems among young adults is warranted. This is particularly important as there is increasing emphasis in public health policy on promoting physical activity.

No description available.

<p> In the field of Reliability, a new concept is introduced. The Combined Dependability theory is put forth in this thesis. </p> <p> Attempts are made to prove this theory experimentally by use of accelerated failure tests of GE-47 miniature lamps. The lamps are tested individually and ten in series. The individual lamp test results are then used for the prediction of the reliability of the ten lamps in series.</p> <p> The ten lamps in series simulate a machine with ten components. A failure of one of the components will produce a failure of the machine. The reliability of the machine can be found if the reliability of each part is known. The single part when tested individually must be subjected to the same stresses and conditions that it would encounter when operating in the machine. If this is not accomplished, the machine's calculation of reliability is invalid.</p> / Thesis / Master of Engineering (MEngr)

No description available.

The research in this thesis has undertaken a technical, economic and environmental appraisal of three gas-fired, small-scale Combined Heat-and-Power (CHP) systems together with a study of the UK's electricity supply industry (ESI) and CHP market. The purpose of each system is to attempt to utilise more of the heat and/or electricity output from the CHP unit. Within the non-technical research area, three scenarios for the evolution of the ESI have been developed to help establish how changes to forces acting within the industry might affect the development of the UK CHP market. New applications of several strategic management analysis tools were used to develop and select the following scenarios: (i) New and reduced CO₂ limits set by the Climate Control Conference + stricter environmental legislation; (ii) Changes to the Pool mechanism for pricing electricity; (iii) Business as usual. It was concluded that in isolation scenarios 1 and 3 would aid the expansion of the CHP market, whereas scenario 2 is likely to hinder it. The selection of the scenarios and the implications for the ESI and CHP market are supported by the opinions of 'industry specialists', which were solicited in a survey specifically undertaken for this study. The investigation into the first of the three technical systems involves the substitution of two separate CHP units in place of a single larger unit. The intention is to operate the larger of the two CHP units at maximum output to satisfy the base heat-load and to use the second unit for meeting peak loads. The results for five test-cases were produced via a newly-developed predictive model, and indicated that it is possible, for one of the case studies considered, to achieve shorter pay-back periods when using the double-unit - with a higher availability of 95% - rather than the single-unit system. In the other two cases (where CHP is a viable economic option), longer pay-back periods ensue by the installation of the two unit rather than the single-unit system. The operation of the two-unit system can potentially increase energy-utilisation from the CHP units at one of the other sites. Furthermore, the proposed system can offer, in some cases, significant secondary benefits, which could encourage a potential investor in the technology. These benefits include the increased heat-and-electricity output, increased availability from the system, back-up from the secondary unit if one unit fails. The second system determines the viability of an integrated small-scale CHP and TES system. Another predictive model was developed and tested on five test-cases. It was found that there is insufficient potential for the system and that the potential is limited by the following factors: (i) CHP-sizing methodology, (ii) the relatively high capital cost for TES hardware and installation, (iii) the relatively low economic value attributed to heat and (iv) the availability of low-priced off-peak electricity. An industrial case study provided a rare and useful operational example of the proposed system and the findings indicated that the heat-store could reduce the energy and monetary expenditures by up to 2.8% of the site's annual gas usage, displacing approximately 30 tones Of CO₂ emissions each year. However, because of the high financial cost of the TES components and installation, the pay-back period produced would rarely be acceptable to a prospective investor, except in exceptional circumstances. Finally, the viability of an integrated CHP/absorption chiller system was investigated. The effectiveness of these types of systems are dependent on several factors, namely: the source-water temperature from the hot-engine CHP unit - for a high COP - and the cooling load at the site, the cooling demand at the site and the temperature of the cooling water. A first-stage predictive model was developed to determine the initial appropriateness of the installation of the integrated system at a local hospital for the first time. The indications were that the cooling demand was too low and the surplus waste-heat from the CHP unit insufficient to make the system viable at the site. A second working-system was studied with a full CO₂ investigation undertaken. The intention was to compare the total CO₂ emissions for the integrated CHP and absorption chiller system with those for a similarly sized vapour-compression system. The results indicate that the installed system will produce 0.30kg CO₂/kWhcoolth compared with 0.27 kg and 0.32kg for two different types of vapour compression systems at design conditions. If the CHP heat output is increased - to supply all of the heat required by the absorption chiller - then the proposed system can displace up to 0.06 kg CO₂ per kWhcoolth at design conditions and 0.10 kg CO₂ per kWh of cooling delivered for lower cooling water temperatures. This represents a reduction of 22% and 40% respectively, when compared with the vapour-compressions system.