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This music score was submitted for the Kaleidoscope 2020 Call for Scores, an open access collaboration with the UCLA Music Library.

This music score was submitted for the Kaleidoscope 2020 Call for Scores, an open access collaboration with the UCLA Music Library.

Supplemental material, Appendix_Instrument25_Final for Preliminary Evidence for the Validity of the Family Caregiver Identity Scale by Elise K. Eifert, William Dudley, James Eddy, Michael Perko and Rebecca Adams in Journal of Applied Gerontology

This music score was submitted for the Kaleidoscope 2020 Call for Scores, an open access collaboration with the UCLA Music Library.

Many breast cancer survivors feel constrained in discussing their cancer experience with others. Limited evidence suggests that social constraints (e.g., avoidance and criticism) from loved ones may negatively impact breast cancer survivors' global health, but research has yet to examine relationships between social constraints and common physical symptoms. Informed by social cognitive processing theory, this study examined whether perceived social constraints from partners and healthcare providers (HCPs) were associated with fatigue, sleep disturbance, and attentional functioning among long-term breast cancer survivors (N = 1052). In addition, avoidant coping and self-efficacy for symptom management were examined as potential mediators of these relationships.Long-term breast cancer survivors (mean years since diagnosis = 6) completed questionnaires assessing social constraints from partners and HCPs, avoidant coping, self-efficacy for symptom management, and symptoms (i.e., fatigue, sleep disturbance, and attentional functioning). Structural equation modeling was used to evaluate the hypothesized relationships among variables in two models: one focused on social constraints from partners and one focused on social constraints from HCPs.Both models demonstrated good fit. Consistent with theory and prior research, greater social constraints from both partners and HCPs were associated with greater symptom burden (i.e., greater fatigue and sleep disturbance, poorer attentional functioning). In addition, all relationships were mediated by avoidant coping and self-efficacy for symptom management.Findings are consistent with social cognitive processing theory and suggest that symptom management interventions may be enhanced by addressing the impact of social constraints from survivors' partners and HCPs on their coping and self-efficacy. Copyright © 2016 John WileySons, Ltd.

Fear of a breast cancer recurrence is the most prevalent and disruptive source of distress for long-term survivors and their partners. However, few studies have focused on predictors of fear of recurrence. The aim of this study is to test the efficacy of the Social Cognitive Processing Theory (SCPT) in predicting fear of recurrence in long-term breast cancer survivors diagnosed at age 45 years or younger and their partners.In a large cross-sectional study, breast cancer survivors (n = 222) 3-8 years from diagnosis and their partners completed a survey assessing demographic characteristics, fear of recurrence, social constraints, and cognitive processing (intrusive thoughts and cognitive avoidance). Mediation analyses were conducted for survivors and partners separately to determine if cognitive processing would mediate the relationship between social constraints and fear of recurrence.Cognitive processing mediated the relationship between social constraints and fear of recurrence both for survivors [F(3,213) = 47.541, RAs predicted, cognitive processing mediated the relationship between social constraints and fear of recurrence. Results expand the utility of the SCPT in long-term survivors and their partners by supporting its use in intervention design. Copyright © 2015 John WileySons, Ltd.

Although enhanced spiritual well-being has been linked to positive mental health outcomes among family caregivers of cancer patients, little is known regarding predictors of spiritual well-being in this population. The current study aimed to examine caregiving experiences as predictors of change in family caregivers' spiritual well-being during the initial months following the patient's cancer diagnosis.Seventy family caregivers of newly diagnosed cancer patients (74% female, mean age = 59 years) participated in this longitudinal survey. Caregivers completed baseline questionnaires shortly before staying with the patient at an American Cancer Society Hope Lodge. Baseline questionnaires assessed caregiving experiences (i.e., self-esteem related to caregiving, family support for providing care, impact of caregiving on finances, and impact of caregiving on one's schedule). In addition, caregivers' spiritual well-being (i.e., meaning in life, peace, and faith) was assessed at baseline and 4-month follow-up.In univariate analyses, all caregiving experiences studied were associated with one or more aspects of spiritual well-being at 4-month follow-up. However, in the multivariate analysis, the only caregiving experience associated with aspects of spiritual well-being at 4-month follow-up was caregivers' perceptions of family support. Specifically, lack of family support was associated with lower levels of meaning and peace.Findings point to the importance of family support in facilitating the search for meaning and peace shortly after a loved one's cancer diagnosis and suggest that interventions targeting caregivers' support system may enhance their spiritual well-being.

The liver contains macrophages and myeloid dendritic cells (mDCs) that are critical for the regulation of hepatic inflammation. Most hepatic macrophages and mDCs are derived from monocytes recruited from the blood through poorly understood interactions with hepatic sinusoidal endothelial cells (HSECs). Human CD16(+) monocytes are thought to contain the precursor populations for tissue macrophages and mDCs. We report that CD16(+) cells localize to areas of active inflammation and fibrosis in chronic inflammatory liver disease and that a unique combination of cell surface receptors promotes the transendothelial migration of CD16(+) monocytes through human HSECs under physiological flow. CX(3)CR1 activation was the dominant pertussis-sensitive mechanism controlling transendothelial migration under flow, and expression of the CX(3)CR1 ligand CX(3)CL1 is increased on hepatic sinusoids in chronic inflammatory liver disease. Exposure of CD16(+) monocytes to immobilized purified CX(3)CL1 triggered beta1-integrin-mediated adhesion to vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 and induced the development of a migratory phenotype. Following transmigration or exposure to soluble CX(3)CL1, CD16(+) monocytes rapidly but transiently lost expression of CX(3)CR1. Adhesion and transmigration across HSECs under flow was also dependent on vascular adhesion protein-1 (VAP-1) on the HSECs.Our data suggest that CD16(+) monocytes are recruited by a combination of adhesive signals involving VAP-1 and CX(3)CR1 mediated integrin-activation. Thus a novel combination of surface molecules, including VAP-1 and CX(3)CL1 promotes the recruitment of CD16(+) monocytes to the liver, allowing them to localize at sites of chronic inflammation and fibrosis.

Headwater streams drain the majority of the landscape, yet little is known about their form and function in comparison to lowland rivers. Better understanding of their morphology and sediment transport processes will improve understanding of landscape evolution and promote a more complete view of fluvial systems. Therefore, the goal of my project was to determine controls on headwater channel form and function in the humid, moderate-relief drainage basins of the Valley and Ridge and Blue Ridge provinces in the southern Appalachian Mountains. I surveyed nine headwater (0.33 - 2 km2 drainage area) streams in a variety of bedrock, climate, base level, and land use conditions and produced a high-resolution dataset on their longitudinal and cross sectional form. This data was analyzed empirically to determine controls on channel form, and used in hydrologic modeling to determine the ability of the channels to erode their beds during regularly recurring flows as well as the recurrence interval of bankfull flows. Field survey results demonstrate that the channels are dominantly alluvial and vary greatly between and within channels in their overall longitudinal form, channel slope values, and grain size. These variations are due to differences in bedrock resistance at the formation level as well as at short wavelengths. Bedrock also controls channel form through its influence on local and regional base level, channel initiation processes, and log jam abundance. Hydraulic geometry, steam competence and bankfull flow recurrence also vary greatly between and within channels. This variation is due to the high sensitivity of the streams to hillslope influences such as bedrock resistance, boulder influx, and soil profile development. Increases in bedrock resistance within a channel create knickpoints that lower stream competence and slow hilllslope erosion. Stream competence is generally higher in channels with erodable bedrock and lower in channels with resistant bedrock, but most channels could entrain the majority of the grains on their bed at 2-year stormflows. Bankfull is a larger, less frequent flow than the 2-year storm at very small drainage areas (

This thesis examines the problems facing small businesses in the Monterey, California area, that are preventing them from receiving a greater share of the Government's environmental cleanup contracting dollars. The closure of military installations has increased the emphasis on environmental cleanup, which in turn has created many opportunities for small businesses. The Army plans on spending at least $240 million in the next 10 years on environmental cleanup of Fort Ord. This amount could very well increase as the environmental cleanup progresses and additional problems are encountered. An analysis of the current contracting process and the actions of contractors and small businesses associated with the clean-up of Fort Ord, was conducted to determine the barriers to entry into Government contracting. Data was collected utilizing personal interviews with experienced professionals at the Corps of Engineers, District Headquarters and field office, numerous public meetings relating to Government contracting and the environmental cleanup at Fort Ord, and interviews with small business owners. Conclusions were drawn from the analysis of the data, and recommendations for the resolution of the problems were presented in an attempt to improve small businesses' opportunity to receive Government contracts or subcontracts. http://archive.org/details/smallbusinessnde1094531292 NA NA U.S. Army (USA) author

The objective of this thesis is to increase efficiency in the administration and control of defense construction contracts managed by Resident Officer In Charge of Construction offices. There are very few tools to guide the project managers in the field, http://archive.org/details/criticalpathmana109457446 U.S. Navy (U.S.N.) author.

The focus of this thesis is to review the use of the Government-wide commercial bank card known as the International Merchant Purchase Agreement Card (I.M.P.A.C.) at the Naval Air Warfare Center, Weapons Division (NAWCWPNS), China Lake, CA. The intent of the study is to analyze the bank card program. It will identify the basic procedures involved in using the bank card, and will evaluate how China Lake cardholders feel the card has affected their small purchase performance. A survey was developed to assess the bank card program. Cardholders were the respondents of the survey. Bank card data were reviewed from the General Services Administration to determine the status of the program. The conclusions of this research are that the bank card program at NAWCWPNS has been extremely effective. Recommendations include selecting NAWCWPNS as a site for bank card experiments and/or policy and procedural changes to the program. NAWCWPNS can also initiate a DOD council to continue to improve and promote the use of the bank card as a vehicle to support the recommendations of the National Performance Review (NPR) regarding small purchases. http://archive.org/details/thebankcardprogr109457495 U.S. Navy (U.S.N.) author.

The Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process has impacted people and cities throughout United States. Many municipalities are directly affected by base closures that occur within their borders. Of major concern to those cities and states is the economic impact a base closure will have on their local economies. In an effort to prevent bases from being closed many city and state officials and private citizens- have turned to Federal officials for assistance. The Monterey Peninsula is one of the communities affected by the BRAC process, with the closure of Fort Ord and the recommended closure of the Defense Language Institute (DLI). The primary reason DLI was slated for closure by BRAC was excessive Base Operation Support (BASEOPS) Costs. The City of Monterey adopted a unique alternative approach to prevent closure of DLI. Monterey City officials developed a proposal to provide these costly BASEOPS serv with the existing City infrastructure and presented it to the Department of Defense (DOD). This thesis analyze this proposal, assess its feasibility and propose other contractual alternatives to reduce BASEOPS costs. The objective of the research is to present and evaluate possible alternatives for acquiring BASEOPS services and to recommend the most effective method to control BASEOPS costs. Perhaps this information can be used to prepare for future BRAC-type assessments of DLI to prevent its closure. http://archive.org/details/amodelindefenser1094531284 NA NA U.S. Army (USA) author

The purpose of this study was to document United States Marine Corps contracting and procurement activities during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. This was accomplished by examining who was there, how they were organized, and in what type of actions the contracting and procurement professionals were involved. The researcher evaluated these areas to determine not only what improvements can be made, but also what should not be changed. The results of this study indicates that the Marine Corps needs to examine the following areas: the current organization of Marine Corps contracting, hardware and software requirements of contingency contractors, legal officer requirements, and the training and education needs of the contracting workforce. This study also recommends changes to the structure and organization of current contracting units, the standardizing of software used by the various contingency contracting organizations, the identification qualified legal officers to be deployed for contingencies, training for both contractors and senior commanders and the use of the lesson learned system to document contracting operations. http://archive.org/details/annalysisofunite1094531283 NA NA U.S. Marine Corps (U.S.M.C.) author.

When a contractor expends a great deal of time and expense to prepare a proposal in response to a high-dollar Government Request for Proposals and award of the resultant contract is made to another contractor, the unsuccessful offeror will often protest since the post-award debriefing does not satisfy his concerns as to why his was not the best offer. This thesis reviews the current written guidance pertaining to post-award debriefings, looks at the current installation level debriefing process and recommends ways to improve debriefings. Results of a questionnaire sent to installation contracting officers and offerors who contract with them indicate: the current debriefing process is not working as well as it should; the Federal Acquisition Streamlining Act (FASA) should help improve the debrief; and further improvements are possible. Some of the thesis' recommendations are: make the post-award debrief an integral part of the process for key technical personnel; give weaknesses, in writing, to the unsuccessful offerors with notification of award; if requested, release all information that the contractor would receive under protest discovery procedures; provide analytical training for contracting officers; use videos and other types of training on "how not to" and "how to" conduct a post-award debriefing. http://archive.org/details/postawarddebrief1094531425 NA NA U.S. Army (USA) author

This research continues the work started by Patrick James Fitzsimmons in studying how experienced and inexperienced negotiators view and employ strategy, tactics, and ethics in pursuing their interests. The research was based on mock negotiations held at The Naval Postgraduate School for third quarter students studying Acquisition and Contract Management Generally, the study found both experienced and inexperienced negotiators assume a cooperative approach to the negotiation process with the inexperienced group being a bit less flexible in their bargaining positions. There was no discernible differences in the ethical perspectives between the two groups. Generally the findings of this study corroborate the findings of Fitzsimmons' thesis. http://archive.org/details/experiencedversu1094531492 NA NA U.S. Navy (U.S.N.) author.

This thesis investigates the current use of, and the potential for improving, market research within the Marine Corps field contracting community. It explores the nature of the procurements typically conducted, and the information needs of contracting personnel. It examines the participation by customers in market research efforts, and advance procurement planning. It also analyzes the barriers to effective market research, or improvements to the current system. Knowledge and understanding of pertinent markets is essential for optimum procurement decisions. Market research is a vital element of effective procurement. Effective market research can increase competition in contracting, and provide valuable market information which can then be used to make better procurement decisions. This thesis will identify the shortcomings in the use of market research by the Marine Corps field contracting personnel. It will also provide recommendations on how the Marine Corps might best improve market research at the field activities. http://archive.org/details/improvedmarketre1094542834 U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) author Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

The Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) created a new requirement for the contracting of Integrated Logistics Support of obsolete weapon systems for foreign military sales. Obsolete weapon systems are weapon systems with useful service life, scheduled for decommissioning, disposal, or potential foreign military sales transactions. The omnibus contract is defined as a total package approach contract used to deliver integrated logistics support to the foreign military sales customer. The SH2 helicopter is the first platform to attempt the use of an all inclusive omnibus type contract for foreign military sales. This thesis identifies the needs of the foreign military sales customer and relates those needs to the services an omnibus contract can provide. The omnibus contract must recognize the concerns the foreign military sales customer has with commercially contracting integrated logistics support. The strengths and weaknesses of the omnibus contract are contrasted with using separate contracts for each integrated logistics support area. Conclusions are developed to prepare NAVAIR for the interdependency required for an omnibus contract. The thesis recommends that an effective omnibus contact requires a partnering relationship between the contractor, foreign military sales customer and the United States Navy http://archive.org/details/foreignmilitarys00alex Lieutenant, United States Navy Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

This thesis examines the acquisition environment and the Marine Corps Acquisition Process as they relate to the determination of initial requirements for weapon systems in juxatposition with Congressional and public expectations. The major conclusion drawn is that greater incorporation of operational Commander's inputs will serve to develop a more viable baseline required operational capability, and that the best vehicle to record and manage these inputs may be the Remedial Action Program (RAP). http://archive.org/details/anexaminationofe1094542873 U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) author Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

Contract negotiations have been an area in the acquisition process where there has been much opportunity for compromise and resulting ethical dilemmas. The area of this research concerns the subject of ethical practices for both Government and industry in contract negotiations. It is not right to legislate ethics, yet it is necessary to provide a model that can address ethical practices and resulting dilemmas that the contract negotiator is faced with. This thesis addresses the policies, procedures, and practices resulting from the subject of ethics in contract negotiations. It also develops a model of essential elements for practice as derived from analysis of requirements, regulations, and the current ethics culture of contract negotiations. http://archive.org/details/ethicsindodcontr1094542820 U.S. Navy (USN) author Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

This research was conducted to study the effects on procurement productivity as a result of the implementation of an Automated Procurement System (APS) at four major teaching hospitals: the National Naval Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, the Naval Medical Center, San Diego, CA, the Naval Medical Center, Portsmouth, VA, and the Naval Medical Center, Oakland, CA. The system installed at these activities was a Bureau of Medicine and Surgery (BUMED) modified version of SACONS-FEDERAL. Previous conversations with Procurement Department Heads at these activities indicated that the system had not increased purchasing agent productivity. My goal of this research, entailed analyzing productivity data from each hospital, before and after system installation, and determining if procurement productivity had changed. Although procurement productivity variables did not show considerable improvement, the integration of the procurement, receiving, and receipt control functions, as well as increased management reporting capabilities and other system benefits, constitutes this as a sound system, worthy of consideration by any contracting agenc http://archive.org/details/effectsonprocure1094542845 U.S. Navy (USN) author Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

This research focuses on the current regulations and policies of the Republic of Korea (R.O.K.) governing contract types to be used. The objectives of this research are: (1) to review the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) related to contract types, (2) to identify major elements for the selection of appropriate contract type, (3) to evaluate current R.O.K regulations and laws which defme contract type application, (4) to compare the FAR with that of R.O.K. regulation, (5) to recommend a proposal to change the R.O.K. regulations for best value procurement. http://archive.org/details/aproposaltochang1094542831 Republic of Korea Army author Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

The area of research for this thesis is the acquisition of "over and above work" in ship repair contracts. The objective of this research is to explore the use ofthe Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (OF ARS) "over and above work" provisions in ship repair contracts. The thesis addresses how the OF ARS "over and above work" provisions should be incorporated into ship repair contracts. Particular attention is given to the Supervisor of Shipbuilding, Conversion and Repair (SUPSHIP) San Diego, CA incorporation of the OF ARS "over and above work" provisions as a local test in the solicitation and contract for the USS ELLIOT (DD-967) February 1994 to May 1994 Selected Restricted Availability (SRA). http://archive.org/details/useofoverndbovew1094542861 U.S. Navy (USN) author Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

DOD weapon system and commodity managers currently are seeking to implement large scale automated procurement and information systems for sharing databases between DOD and various contractor and subcontractor activities. A prevalent shared database system is the Continuous Acquisition and Life- Cycle Support (CALS) system and the associated Joint Continuous Acquisition and Life-Cycle Support (JCALS) system for major weapon system procurement. An important issue for the manager of any integrated, shared database is the protection of technical data rights for the information contained in the database. This study, through the use of personal interviews and surveys, determined that the existing dichotomy between the Government and industry concerning technical data rights protection can be bridged through standardization of the CALS program, simplification and clarification of governing policies and guidelines, and better use of inputs from system users. http://archive.org/details/technicaldatrigh1094542787 Lieutenant Commander, United States Navy Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

This research project investigates the Naval Supply Systems Command's (NAVSUP) current goals and objectives in developing a new Procurement Management Review (PMR) process. NA VSUP must conduct PMRs on all activities in which they provide contracting authority. Change to the current PMR process is required. Many factors have contributed to this requirement for change in the PMR process. These factors include the shrinking Department of Defense (DOD) dollar, efforts to reinvent or reengineer Government, the way material is purchased in outside industries and the use of Total Quality Leadership (TQL) throughout the Navy. All of these factors are discussed in this research effort. This thesis provides guidance which can be used by NA VSUP to implement a uniform and consistent TQL approach to the PMR process for their field activities. http://archive.org/details/qualitymanagemen1094542837 U.S. Navy (USN) author Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

There has been a recent increase in emphasis by the Federal Government on using alternative dispute resolution methods to resolve contract disputes. These methods are normally less expensive, faster, less intimidating and more responsive to the underlying problems of the dispute. Alternative dispute resolution is not effective for all disputes. Situations in which alternative dispute resolutions would be effective are identified. Additionally, the characteristics and advantages of alternative dispute resolution are discussed. The current legislation concerning the Government's usage of alternative dispute resolution is the Administrative Dispute Resolution Act of 1990. The specific components of the Act are reviewed. The conventional dispute resolution process, and its disadvantages, are presented for comparison purposes. http://archive.org/details/alternativedispu1094542925 U.S. Navy (USN) author Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

This thesis examines the manpower and billet characteristics of the Acquisition/Contract Management subspecialty of the U.S. Navy Supply Corps. Emphasis is placed on the processed to designate billets and certify officers under the Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA). This thesis assesses the implementation of DAWIA. It analyze the criteria and processes used to certify individual qualifications and identify and classify military contracting positions (billets). It also assesses the impact of these changes on the promotability of officers in the Contracting Career Field of the Acquisition Workforce. http://archive.org/details/meetingcontracti1094542908 Lieutenant, Supply Corps, United States Navy Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

The purpose of this thesis is to identify and discuss the viable methods associated with streamlining the acquisition process at Fleet and Industrial Supply Center (FISC) Oakland. Findings were that the implementation of Competition in Contracting Act (CICA) and the Acquisition Streamlining Initiative (ASI) of 1986 have not affected Procurement Administrative Lead Time (PALT). This research identifies several measures undertaken by FISC Oakland to streamline the acquisition process. Recommendations include issuance of a draft Statement of Work (SOW)/Request for Proposal (RFP), utilization of early synopsis and development of a management information system http://archive.org/details/anevaluationofcq1094528181 NA NA

Negotiation is an integral part of everyday life. It is a process whereby parties come together and attempt to reach an agreement that is of mutual benefit and that sets the framework for future dealings. While the goal of any contract negotiation is to reach an agreement .. there are instances when, for various reasons, negotiations reach an impasse. The consequences can be serious for both DOD and industry. If a negotiation associated with developing and/or fielding a major weapon system breaks down, DOD's ability to meet mission goals is adversely affected. Likewise, the impasse can threaten the fmancial health of the prospective prime contractor and associated subcontractors, weakening the defense industrial base. This thesis developed an understanding of the factors which contribute to the occurrence of a contract negotiation impasse, and how a knowledge of these factors may be utilized to avoid the impasse and improve the negotiation process. The research focused on DOD and defense industry practicing contract negotiators. http://archive.org/details/understandingndv1094542918 U.S. Navy (USN) author Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

This study evaluates the primary program used by the Navy to introduce Supply Corps officers into the contract management field, the Navy Acquisition Contracting Officer (NACO) Intern Program. The NACO program was evaluated to determine how successful it has been in helping to preserve a cadre of competent military contracting managers. Surveys from 124 former and current interns, ten telephone interviews with current interns, and ten personal interviews with senior contracting managers provide the data for this evaluation. The results indicate that the NACO program is perceived to be effective in providing junior 1306 subspecialists with instruction and experience in contracting. The research concludes that force reduction and DAWIA requirements have not resulted in changes in the objectives of the NACO program, and identifies specialization as a key issue for the Navy in the future. Respondents and interviewees feel that promotion board discouragement of specialization makes it difficult for officers to become proficient in the contract management field. Further, the NACO program is found to be popular with current and former participants, though there seems to be consensus that more centralized and involved program management is necessary http://archive.org/details/thenavyacquisiti1094528392 NA NA U.S. Navy (U.S.N.) author.

This thesis investigates and analyzes the principal features and sources of difficulties associated with the Time and Materials (T & M) contract and how these difficulties might be mitigated. Through personal interviews and a review of available literature, the research suggests ways to structure and manage T & M contracts during the pre-award phase, including incorporation of possible incentives, to motivate both the Government and the contractor to perform T & M contracts as efficiently as possible. Further, the research examined the administration and monitoring of T & M contracts during the post award phase, in order to mitigate the difficulties inherent during this portion of the contract. The research effort serves as a management guide which will benefit both Procuring Contracting Officers (PCO) and Administrative Contracting Officers (ACO) in the successful structuring and administration of T & M contracts. http://archive.org/details/timendmaterialsc1094530827 NA NA U.S. Navy (U.S.N.) author.

The end of cold war levels of defense expenditures has promoted the reduction in the number of defense-related companies, creating potential monopolistic economic scenarios for defense procurement. This thesis studies one methodology to deal with these scenarios, based on the Baron-Myerson monopolist regulation mechanisms. The Baron-Myerson mechanism provides a tool to regulate monopolists when their costs are unknown or cannot be measured, because it is designed as to compel the producer to reveal its costs by maximizing the company's profit when it announces their true value. The government presents a modified purchasing plan to the producer, buys according to the announced costs and pays a subsidy (or levies a tax) to the producer. To apply Baron-Myerson the government needs to know the demand for the good or service it requires, and an estimate of probability density function for the possible costs of the project. This second assumption is the issue addressed in this thesis. The thesis establishes selection criteria and policy recommendations that the government can use to choose a probability density function for the application of Baron-Myerson. The criteria is based on the maximization of the expected government gain, given the level of efficiency of the producer. Also, an analysis of the policy implications of the government's choice is made, to determine the effects of a change in policy on the total welfare, the firm's profits and the government gain. http://archive.org/details/environmentalcon1094542902 U.S. Navy (USN) author Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

This research sought to identify and compare the predominant learning styles of Government versus Industry negotiators using the Kolb Learning Style Inventory. Additionally it sought to identify and analyze differences and similarities between Government Procuring Contracting Officers (PCOS) and Administrative Contracting Officers (ACOs), Government versus Industry negotiators, and by variances due to educational background. The Kolb Learning Style Inventory is a self descriptive iuestionnaire designed to measure individual emphasis on four learning abilities: concrete experience (CE), reflective observation (RO), abstract conceptualization (AC), and active experimentation (AE). A total of 473 Government and 153 Industry contract negotiators responded to a survey which was designed to allow analysis based on age, education, experience, and negotiation authority. Results for Govemnnet and Industry were presented separately, then compared. Based upon these analyses, it was concluded that Governmnet PCOs are Convergers (favor CE and AE), ACOs are Accommodators (favor CE and AE), and Industry negotiators are Assimilators (favor AC and RO). As education, experience, age, and negotiation authority increase so do preferences for active (AE) and abstract (AC) learning traits. http://archive.org/details/learningstylesof1094542895 U.S. Navy (USN) author Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

Streamlining the acquisition process is a goal of every procurement command. Less lead time to provide a system to the customer can only lead to better customer satisfaction and customer relations. This thesis investigates and explores some of the various ways DOD is working to incorporate improvements and adapting to a changing environment through acquisition streamlining and acquisition reform. The main thrust of this thesis is an analysis of an initiative the Naval Air Systems Command has named "Alpha Acquisition." Alpha Acquisition is an initiative to streamline the acquisition process by the coordination of the Government and the contractor into one organized group with the objective of getting under contract for a specific procurement in the shortest time possible and at a fair and reasonable price. This thesis analyzes the advantages and drawbacks of Alpha Acquisition and where it stands in the streamlining and reform process http://archive.org/details/acquisitionstrea1094527929 NA NA U.S. Navy (U.S.N.) author.

The Navy Field Contracting System (NFCS) uses Procurement Administrative Lead Time (PALT) as the primary indicator of procurement effectiveness. However, many procurement activities are attempting to use other indicators to measure procurement effectiveness. Required Delivery Date (RDD) is one measure that has been proposed as a replacement or addition to PALT. A survey of 62 procurement professionals in the NFCS was conducted in order to gauge the reaction to the proposed use of RDD. Respondents indicated that using RDD as an indicator of performance was a good concept, but that it was impractical due to the number of unrealistic RDDs provided by customers. It was further concluded that other concerns such as: obtaining valid receipt dates; additional buyer workload; and vendor considerations may also complicate the use of RDD as a measurement tool. This thesis recommends that activities must decide for themselves if the benefits measuring RDD outweigh the costs of implementing a system designed to track and measure RDD. http://archive.org/details/requireddelivery1094539752 Lieutenant Commander, United States Navy Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

This thesis investigates the nature and functions of commercial style market research. It examines the issues and barriers which face Navy contracting personnel should commercial style market research be assimilated and employed at contracting activities. It specifically considers an acquisition environment characterized by a downsized infrastructure and rapidly changing technological environment. Commercial entities have been successfully using market research to make better qualified business decisions. Can commercial style market research be successfully applied to Navy acquisition activities? The conclusion is that Navy activities can and should use the successful market research practices of commercial business. However, the Navy manager must be cognizant of the potential barriers to effective and efficient market research which face the Navy as well as the commercial manager. The barriers must be overcome and/or their effects mitigated in order to successfully employ market research. This thesis explores barriers and possible solutions. http://archive.org/details/commercialstylem1094539765 Lieutenant, United States NAvy Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

The area of research is centered on one of the mandatory sources of supply for Federal Government agencies - the Federal Prison Industries, Inc. Established by the U.S. Congress in 1934 under authority of the Prison Made Supplies Act, Title 18, USC, 4121-4129, the Federal Prison Industries, Inc. (FPI) mission is to train and employ inmates. Initial research into the procurement practices and opinions of Department of the Army (DA) field contracting activities toward FPI revealed that many misconceptions exist and that the customer/supplier relationship between DA and FPI could be improved. The objective of this thesis was to examine the procurement practices of the DA field contracting activities by the use of a survey and to use the survey's results to identify analogous problems. This study identifies the problems that exist between DA and FPI, summarizes why they exist, and offers some recommendations for improving the customer/supplier relationship http://archive.org/details/departmentofarmy1094526961 Captain, Air Defense Artillery, United States Army Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

This study was conducted to identify the effect the downsizing of the Department of Defense is having on the small business subcontractors and subcontracts of the top ten defense contractors. A questionnaire via telephone interviews was utilized to gather information from the top ten defense contractors. The study concludes that small business subcontract trends and goal percentages within DOD will remain constant despite the decrease in defense spending. The study identified commodity and industry groups adversely affected as well as those that have benefited from the downsizing. Additionally, the study identified strategies small businesses should use for survival in this environment, as well as assistance available from industry and the Government. The study recommends the Government identify actual dollar amounts being subcontracted to specific commodity groups or industries, instead of using percentage goals. The Government should provide more adequate training and communication to small business firms. http://archive.org/details/theffectdownsizi1094539726 Lieutenant, United States Navy Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

This thesis is an analysis of the effect that component life limit reductions of the F404-GE-400 engine have on AIMD Lemoore Power Plants Division operations. Estimations of fleet impact due to F404 component life limit reductions did not include the affect on production work centers. This thesis used simulation modeling of the F404 engine repair process at AIMD Lemoore to investigate the impact of these reductions. The simulation model outcomes provide strong indications that AIMD Power Plants Division operations will not be substantially altered by F404 component life limit reductions. However, there will be a significant impact on engine turn around time and the number of aircraft grounded awaiting engines. Recommendations to reduce the impact of component life limit reductions include improved logistical support in long-lead repair items. Additionally, the researchers recommend greater use of simulation modeling in future planning and analysis of significant logistics support changes. http://archive.org/details/analysisofinterm1094539704 Lieutenant Commander, United States Navy Lieutenant, United States Navy Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

The purpose of this study is to streamline the contract closeout process through the application of continuous process improvement techniques. A methodology for the identification of procedures involved in the process and problem areas in the process was developed. Available literature was reviewed and personal interviews were conducted to develop a model of the contract closeout process and to identify problems in the contract closeout process. Continuous Process Improvement procedures were applied to the contract model and the problems identified to eliminate the problems and increase the efficiency of the process. Recommendations included: increasing the priority placed on the close out of U. S. Government contracts, development of an automated system for the close out of U. S. Government contracts, development of a training program in the contract closeout process, improvement of communications between organizations involved in the contract closeout process, and application of continuous process improvement procedures to reduce the time required to close out U. S. Government contracts.. http://archive.org/details/applyingcontinuo1094539723 Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

Downsizing is and will continue to be a fact of life in the U. S. Military for the foreseeable future. Many military organizations are reorganizing to reduce expenses and increase efficiency in an effort to survive budget cuts. The Fleet and Industrial Supply Center (FISC), San Diego, CA., is an organization that desires to reorganize to maintain its position as a leader and innovator in the military purchasing community. This thesis analyzes the structure, key management processes, information flows, and employee perceptions of the efficiency of the organizational structure at FISC Site North Island and FISC Site Naval Station, in addition to the procurement management functions at the FISC Headquarters. As a result of this analysis, a new organizational design and the beginnings of a transition plan are recommended to improve the efficiency of FISC's purchasing management http://archive.org/details/arecommendedorga1094526207 Lieutenant Commander, United States Navy Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

This thesis is the initial effort to establish a universal dictionary of acquisition and contracting terminology. As a continuation of research initiated by LCDR Daniel Ryan, SC, USN to establish a basis for defining words and terms used in the field of contracting, the fifty terms selected for this thesis were taken from the dictionary of acquisition and contracting terms which is maintained through thesis research conducted within the National Contract Management Association. This work differs from previous research in that it takes the terms from those efforts and attempts to attain, through questionnaire results from four national acquisition and contracting professional associations, a general consensus for commonly held terminology. This research is the initial effort conducted by students at the Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, California. http://archive.org/details/auniversaldictio1094539848 Lieutenant, United States Navy Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

This study attempts to identify to what extent long-term contracting is feasible by the Department of Defense (DoD). It was primarily accomplished by examining the long-term contracting literature base and through surveys and follow-up telephone interviews with individuals from private industry and with individuals from DoD. The surveys and interviews were conducted in order to specifically identify and characterize any barriers which may be restricting DoD's ability to use a long-term contracting approach; and if so, to determine how these barriers can best be overcome, by comparing DoD's long-term contracting practices to the long-term contracting practices of private industry. http://archive.org/details/thefeasibilityof1094539772 Lieutenant Commander, United States Navy. Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

This thesis analyzes the conduct of the Procurement Management Review (PMR) within the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) , the Army, the Navy, and the Air Force in order to develop a process and guide for the Marine Corps in its conduct of the PMR on the Marine Corps Field Contracting System. The objectives are to produce a user/management guide that will focus review efforts on the goal of procurement process improvement instead of deficiency reporting; minimize preparation time by HQMC evaluators; streamline the preparation effort and performance by the field contracting offices; and create a cooperative, nonadversarial environment in order to improve procurement efficiency and effectiveness. The development will proceed with a study of DLA and other Services' procedures concerning their management philosophy regarding PMR conduct, their organization for conducting PMRs, and their measurement of legal and regulatory compliance. An incremental approach to Total Quality Management (TQM) implementation will be introduced to the conduct of the PMR. http://archive.org/details/annalysisnddevel1094523817 Captain, United States Marine Corps Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

The primary intent of this research effort is to provide an identification and analysis of impediments to the acquisition of spare parts. The focus of the research was in the area of Army rotary wing aviation spare parts. The researcher delved into both pre-nonavailability and post nonavailability issues and sought to establish responsibility for their resolution. It looked at such factors as those general factors shaping the procurement environment, and information gathered through archival research, interviews, questionnaires and selected component case analysis. It was apparent from the research that a myriad of causes of spares nonavailability exist. Some of these are controllable and some are outside the realm of reasonable control by those in the acquisition community. It also discussed the aggressive, iterative use of risk management to apply limited resources to those areas with demand the most attention due to their relative program impact should difficulties in sustainability be encountered. http://archive.org/details/sparepartsnonava1094524042 Captain, United States Army Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

The ability to maintain and sustain the Army during peacetime operations and wartime utilization requirements, depends greatly on the availability of repair and space parts. The readiness of aging systems in the Army's inventory is threatened by the component nonavailability problems. This thesis focuses on situations in which contracting officers and items managers are faced with critical factors affecting their decisions as to which acquisition alternative they chose. This study identifies and defines the component nonavailability issues, discusses why they occur, reviews current spare parts acquisition techniques, presents advantages and disadvantages associated with each acquisition alternative, and discusses and analyzes the critical factors that affect the decision making process. The researcher also proposes the use of the Rapid Acquisition of Manufactured Parts (RAMP) program to address the problems of high costs, growing leadtimes, and diminishing sources for spare parts. http://archive.org/details/anssessmentofcri1094523544 Captain, United States Army Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.