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Features of the Rotary Storage System (RSS), developed by Metrum Information Storage, are presented in vugraph format. The RSS makes use of the T-120 Super-VHS media with 10.4 GB per cartridge. Other features of the RSS are as follows: (1) Very Large Data Store (VLDS) tape drives; (2) robots with on-line capacity to 6.2 TB; (3) bar code reader; (4) data management computer; and (5) network accessible.
A project is described which has as its goal the production of a set of system-independent, discipline-independent, transportable college level courses to educate science and engineering students in the use of large-scale information storage and retrieval systems. This project is being conducted with the cooperation and sponsorship of NASA by R and D teams at the University of Southwest Louisiana and Southern University. Chapter 1 is an introduction, providing an overview and a listing of the management phases. Chapter 2 furnishes general information regarding accomplishments in areas under development. Chapter 3 deals with the development of the course materials by presenting a series of diagrams and keys to depict the progress and interrelationships of various tasks and sub-tasks. Chapter 4 presents plans for activities to be conducted to complete and deliver course materials. The final chapter is a summary of project objectives, methods, plans, and accomplishments.
In typical artificial neural networks, neurons adjust according to global calculations of a central processor, but in the brain, neurons and synapses self-adjust based on local information. Contrastive learning algorithms have recently been proposed to train physical systems, such as fluidic, mechanical, or electrical networks, to perform machine-learning tasks from local evolution rules. However, to date, such systems have only been implemented in silico due to the engineering challenge of creating elements that autonomously evolve based on their own response to two sets of global boundary conditions. Here, we introduce and implement a physics-driven contrastive learning scheme for a network of variable resistors, using circuitry to locally compare the response of two identical networks subjected to the two different sets of boundary conditions. Using this method, our system effectively trains itself, optimizing its resistance values without the use of a central processor or external information storage. Once the system is trained for a specified allostery, regression, or classification task, the task is subsequently performed rapidly and automatically by the physical imperative to minimize power dissipation in response to the given voltage inputs. Here, we demonstrate that, unlike typical computers, such learning systems are robust to extreme damage (and thus manufacturing defects) due to their decentralized learning. Our twin-network approach is therefore readily scalable to extremely large or nonlinear networks, where its distributed nature will be an enormous advantage; a laboratory network of only 500 edges will already outpace its in silico counterpart.
A data base management system is identified, developed to provide flexible access to data sets produced by GARP during its data systems tests. The content and coverage of the data base are defined and a computer-aided, interactive information storage and retrieval system, implemented to facilitate access to user specified data subsets, is described. The computer programs developed to provide the capability were implemented on the highly interactive, minicomputer-based AOIPS and are referred to as the data retrieval system (DRS). Implemented as a user interactive but menu guided system, the DRS permits users to inventory the data tape library and create duplicate or subset data sets based on a user selected window defined by time and latitude/longitude boundaries. The DRS permits users to select, display, or produce formatted hard copy of individual data items contained within the data records.
As the National Aeronautics and Space Association (NASA) begins to pursue long-duration space flights, they will need to be able to provide astronauts with a nutritious and reliable food source. To meet the administration’s goal of traveling to the Moon and Mars, astronauts will need to begin to grow their own food in space. To protect their food source, extensive monitoring will occur to test for the effects of a space flight environment (e.g., radiation) as well as for early pathogen and disease detection. Genomic sequencing allows for both concerns to be tested on a regular basis. However, NASA’s current sequencer is unable to process plant tissues. Therefore, a novel method for plant DNA extraction using microneedle (MN) patches that will be able to feed into NASA’s existing system, but also require minimal human input is proposed. To support this, the design was broken down into four components (1) MN patch fabrication (2) MN patch extraction, (3) automated sampling motion control, and (4) a processing module. The MN patch is fabricated using a custom mold with conically shaped needles. The mold is filled with Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) solution and placed in a vacuum desiccator. The mold is left in the vacuum overnight until the patch is dry and ready for use. The protocol was tested with varying pressures, drying times, volume amounts, and preparation methods to determine if highquality needles can be produced. A MN is a method of DNA extraction where the patch is applied to a leaf, the needles penetrate the leaf, breaking the rigid plant cell wall to isolate the DNA. A protocol for this method of extraction was tested to ensure the patch could produce the needed yield and purity. The tests varied by the number of patches, number of applications, and plant type. To automate the MN extraction method, motion control will utilize two separate axis tables which move in the x and y directions. The y-axis table will have an end effector that fits a MN patch and will have the ability to apply the patch to the leaf sample. This end effector will also act as a lid for a downstream processing module. The other axis will position the leaf sample and processing container so that the patch can be applied accurately. The Joint Comprehensive Sequencing System (JCSS) module integrates all the components together. The output of this module feeds into the NASA Charged Information-Storage Polymer Preparation System (CHIPPS) for genomic sequencing. The extraction module operates using a series of syringes and tubing to pump the varying reagents needed for the extraction protocol. The results of the study proved that MN patches are a viable method of DNA extraction. While fabrication of high-quality needles was unsuccessful, the protocol was able to be further developed using centrifugation. The integrated design between the motion control and the JCSS enabled the potential for automation with a complete conceptual design and prototype. Future research and development for this study would include (1) further testing for fabrication (2) expanding the range of plant species compatible with the MN patch, and (3) building a working prototype for the integrated system.
Power systems, which range in size from small microgrids to island systems to large regional grids, are typically managed by a central controller that requires complex communication methods and can be unreliable and pose cyber security risks in certain applications, especially when controlling a larger number of nodes. We propose an inherently robust, scalable method of integration using multiple energy storage systems and distributed energy resources, which does not require any means of dedicated communication. This method moves beyond the paradigm of controlling grid frequency at a fixed value (e.g., 60 Hz), instead allowing the frequency to fluctuate within certain limits (e.g., 59.6-60.4 Hz). With a greater operating range, the frequency can carry necessary information from energy storage systems to highly variable distributed energy resources like photovoltaics, wind, hydro, etc.
Semiconductor information storage and retrieval system provides a comprehensive, accurate, and ready reference to characteristic data of diodes and transistors. The system can be used to supply a complete listing of technical component information necessary for circuit designers, reliability engineers, and quality assurance personnel.
Current discussion of digital libraries (DLs) is often dominated by the merits of the respective storage, search and retrieval functionality of archives, repositories, search engines, search interfaces and database systems. While these technologies are necessary for information management, the information content is more important than the systems used for its storage and retrieval. Digital information should have the same long-term survivability prospects as traditional hardcopy information and should be protected to the extent possible from evolving search engine technologies and vendor vagaries in database management systems. Information content and information retrieval systems should progress on independent paths and make limited assumptions about the status or capabilities of the other. Digital information can achieve independence from archives and DL systems through the use of buckets. Buckets are an aggregative, intelligent construct for publishing in DLs. Buckets allow the decoupling of information content from information storage and retrieval. Buckets exist within the Smart Objects and Dumb Archives model for DLs in that many of the functionalities and responsibilities traditionally associated with archives are pushed down (making the archives dumber) into the buckets (making them smarter). Some of the responsibilities imbued to buckets are the enforcement of their terms and conditions, and maintenance and display of their contents.
This grant final report executive summary documents a major, long-term program addressing innovative educational issues associated with the development, administration, evaluation, and widespread distribution of transportable educational programs for scientists and engineers to increase their knowledge of, and facilitate their utilization of automated scientific and technical information storage and retrieval systems. This educational program is of very broad scope, being targeted at Colleges of Engineering and Colleges of Physical sciences at a large number of colleges and universities throughout the United States. The educational program is designed to incorporate extensive hands-on, interactive usage of the NASA RECON system and is supported by a number of microcomputer-based software systems to facilitate the delivery and usage of the educational course materials developed as part of the program.
The 1972 Systems Engineering program at Marshall Space Flight Center where 15 participants representing 15 U.S. universities, 1 NASA/MSFC employee, and another specially assigned faculty member, participated in an 11-week program is discussed. The Fellows became acquainted with the philosophy of systems engineering, and as a training exercise, used this approach to produce a conceptional design for an Earth Resources Information Storage, Transformation, Analysis, and Retrieval System. The program was conducted in three phases; approximately 3 weeks were devoted to seminars, tours, and other presentations to subject the participants to technical and other aspects of the information management problem. The second phase, 5 weeks in length, consisted of evaluating alternative solutions to problems, effecting initial trade-offs and performing preliminary design studies and analyses. The last 3 weeks were occupied with final trade-off sessions, final design analyses and preparation of a final report and oral presentation.
Bills currently before the House and Senate would give support to the development of a National Information Infrastructure, in which digital libraries and storage systems would be an important part. A simple model is offered to show the relationship of storage systems, software, and standards to the overall information infrastructure. Some elements of a national strategy for digital libraries are proposed, based on the mission of the nonprofit National Storage System Foundation.
List processing subroutines for IBM 1800/1130 information storage and retrieval system
The biomedical data of the astronauts on Skylab 3 were analyzed to evaluate the univariate statistical methods for comparing endocrine series experiments in relation to other medical experiments. It was found that an information storage and retrieval system was needed to facilitate statistical analyses.
The developments of an information storage and retrieval system are presented. Computer programs used in the system are described; the programs allow display messages to be placed on disks in an off-line environment permitting a more efficient use of memory. A time table that shows complete and scheduled developments of the system is given.
The possibility is put forth that the mitochondrion did not originate from an endosymbiosis 1-2 billion years ago involving an aerobic bacterium. Rather, it arose by endosymbiosis in a much earlier anaerobic period and was initially a photosynthetic organelle analogous to the modern chloroplast. This suggestion arises from a reconsideration of the nature of endosymbiosis. It explains the remarkable diversity in mitochondrial information storage and processing systems.
The R and D activities addressing the development, administration, and evaluation of a set of transportable, college-level courses to educate science and engineering students in the effective use of automated scientific and technical information storage and retrieval systems, and, in particular, in the use of the NASA RECON system, are discussed. The long-range scope and objectives of these contracted activities are overviewed and the progress which has been made toward these objectives during FY 1983-1984 is highlighted. In addition, the results of a survey of 237 colleges and universities addressing course needs are presented.
This proposal addresses the development, administration, and evaluation of a set of transportable, college-level courses to educate science and engineering students in the effective use of automated scientific and technical information storage and retrieval systems, and, in particular, in the use of the NASA RECON system. Chapter 1 presents a brief introduction. Chapter 2 identifies general and specific objectives, i.e., needs analysis, course development, course administration, and course evaluation. Chapter 3 proposes the methodology to be used in successfully accomplishing these objectives. Chapter 4 highlights expected results and product deliverables, and Chapter 5 presents the project evaluation plan to be followed. Chapter 6 is a brief overview of the institutional resources available at the proposing institutions, i.e., at the University of Southwestern Louisiana and at Southern University to support the project. Chapter 7 proposes a budget, time schedule, and management plan. Chapter 8 is a summary of the foregoing.
The general specifications for the development of a PC-based distributed workstation (PCDWS) for an information storage and retrieval systems environment are defined. This research proposes the development of a PCDWS prototype as part of the University of Southwestern Louisiana Data Base Management System (USL/DBMS) NASA/PC R and D project in the PC-based workstation environment.