Tomographical process monitoring of laser transmission welding with OCT

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ackermann, Philippe; Schmitt, Robert

2017-06-01

Process control of laser processes still encounters many obstacles. Although these processes are stable, a narrow process parameter window during the process or process deviations have led to an increase on the requirements for the process itself and on monitoring devices. Laser transmission welding as a contactless and locally limited joining technique is well-established in a variety of demanding production areas. For example, sensitive parts demand a particle-free joining technique which does not affect the inner components. Inline integrated non-destructive optical measurement systems capable of providing non-invasive tomographical images of the transparent material, the weld seam and its surrounding areas with micron resolution would improve the overall process. Obtained measurement data enable qualitative feedback into the system to adapt parameters for a more robust process. Within this paper we present the inline monitoring device based on Fourier-domain optical coherence tomography developed within the European-funded research project "Manunet Weldable". This device, after adaptation to the laser transmission welding process is optically and mechanically integrated into the existing laser system. The main target lies within the inline process control destined to extract tomographical geometrical measurement data from the weld seam forming process. Usage of this technology makes offline destructive testing of produced parts obsolete. 1,2,3,4

Wild Horse 69-kV transmission line environmental assessment

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

NONE

1996-12-01

Hill County Electric Cooperative Inc. (Hill County) proposes to construct and operate a 69-kV transmission line from its North Gildford Substation in Montana north to the Canadian border. A vicinity project area map is enclosed as a figure. TransCanada Power Corporation (TCP), a Canadian power-marketing company, will own and construct the connecting 69-kV line from the international border to Express Pipeline`s pump station at Wild Horse, Alberta. This Environmental Assessment is prepared for the Department of Energy (DOE) as lead federal agency to comply with the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), as part of DOE`s review andmore » approval process of the applications filed by Hill County for a DOE Presidential Permit and License to Export Electricity to a foreign country. The purpose of the proposed line is to supply electric energy to a crude oil pump station in Canada, owned by Express Pipeline Ltd. (Express). The pipeline would transport Canadian-produced oil from Hardisty, Alberta, Canada, to Caster, Wyoming. The Express Pipeline is scheduled to be constructed in 1996--97 and will supply crude oil to refineries in Wyoming and the midwest.« less

Experimental assessment of the influence of welding process parameters on Lamb wave transmission across ultrasonically welded thermoplastic composite joints

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ochôa, Pedro; Fernandez Villegas, Irene; Groves, Roger M.; Benedictus, Rinze

2018-01-01

One of the advantages of thermoplastic composites relative to their thermoset counterparts is the possibility of assembling components through welding. Ultrasonic welding in particular is very promising for industrialization. However, uncertainty in the fatigue and fracture behaviour of composites is still an obstacle to the full utilisation of these materials. Health monitoring is then of vital importance, and Lamb wave techniques have been widely recognised as some of the most promising approaches for that end. This paper presents the first experimental study about the influence of welding travel on the transmission of Lamb waves across ultrasonically welded thermoplastic composite joints in single-lap configuration. The main aim of this research is to start to understand how guided waves interact with the internal structure of ultrasonic welds, so that benign, manufacturing-related structural features can be distinguished from damaging ones in signal interpretation. The power transmission coefficient and the correlation coefficient proved to be suitable for analysing the wave propagation phenomena, allowing quantitative identification of small variations of weld-line thickness and intermolecular diffusion at the weld interface. The conclusions are used to develop a tentative damage detection criterion which can later on assist the design of a Lamb wave based structural health monitoring system for thermoplastic composite structures. The Lamb wave test results are backed up by phased-array inspections, which also provide some extra insight on the internal structure of ultrasonic welds.

75 FR 32357 - Gallatin National Forest; Montana; Jack Rabbit to Big Sky Meadow Village 161 kV Transmission Line...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-06-08

... DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Forest Service Gallatin National Forest; Montana; Jack Rabbit to Big Sky... electric transmission line. The upgraded 161-kV transmission line would connect the existing Jack Rabbit... with eight regional entities to improve the reliability of the bulk power system. The Jack Rabbit to...

75 FR 9573 - Minnkota Power Cooperative, Inc: Bemidji-Grand Rapids 230kV Transmission Project

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-03-03

... Rapids 230kV Transmission Project AGENCY: Rural Utilities Service, USDA. ACTION: Notice of Availability... copy of the Draft EIS may be viewed online at the following Web sites: http://www.usda.gov/rus/water..., Longville, MN 56655; Walker Public Library, 207 4th St., Walker, MN 56484; Bovey Public Library--Village...

Supplement Analysis for the Transmission System Vegetation Management Program FEIS (DOE/EIS-0285/SA-137- Chemawa-Salem 1&2)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sherer, Brett M.

Vegetation Management for the Chemawa-Salem #1 115 kV and #2 230 kV transmission lines from Chemawa Substation to Salem Substation. BPA proposes to remove unwanted vegetation along the right-of-way, access roads, switch platforms, and around tower structures of the subject transmission line corridor that may impede the operation and maintenance of the identified transmission lines. BPA plans to conduct vegetation control with the goal of removing tall growing vegetation that is currently or will soon be a hazard to the transmission line. BPA’s overall goal is to have lowgrowing plant communities along the rights-of-way to control the development of potentiallymore » threatening vegetation.« less

Effect of carbon black on temperature field and weld profile during laser transmission welding of polymers: A FEM study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Acherjee, Bappa; Kuar, Arunanshu S.; Mitra, Souren; Misra, Dipten

2012-04-01

The influence of the carbon black on temperature distribution and weld profile, during laser transmission welding of polymers, is investigated in the present research work. A transient numerical model, based on conduction mode heat transfer, is developed to analyze the process. The heat input to the model is considered to be the volumetric Gaussian heat source. The computation of temperature field during welding is carried out for polycarbonates having different proportion of carbon black in polymer matrix. The temperature dependent material properties of polycarbonate are taken into account for modeling. The finite element code ANSYS ® is employed to obtain the numerical results. The numerically computed results of weld pool dimensions are compared with the experimental results. The comparison shows a fair agreement between them, which gives confidence to use the developed model for intended investigation with acceptable accuracy. The results obtained have revealed that the carbon black has considerable influence on the temperature field distribution and the formation of the weld pool geometry.

Laser transmission welding of polylactide to aluminium thin films for applications in the food-packaging industry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pagano, Nunziante; Campana, Giampaolo; Fiorini, Maurizio; Morelli, Raffaele

2017-06-01

Laser transmission welding is a suitable technology to join thin films of similar or dissimilar materials without any addition of chemical solvents or adhesives. This process represents a very important opportunity in the case of packaging applications (for example in food and pharmaceutical sectors) where the realisation of strong welds by avoiding the contact between the thermal source and the processed materials and, furthermore, without using any third material that could contaminate the contents, is reliable and relevant. The aim of this paper is to prove the feasibility of the laser transmission welding of polylactide to aluminium thin films by means of laser transmission welding through the use of a low power pulsed wave fibre laser. Laser joint samples were realised, analysed by optical microscopy to reveal possible defects and to evaluate the weld width and tested to measure the mechanical tensile strength. An accurate relationship between the joint quality and both the welding speed and the k-factor, which represents the delivered energy per unit length and affects the bonding mechanism at the interface, was determined. The achieved feasibility area is extremely narrow and possible only for the higher value of the average power. The joint tensile strength was proven to be in a proportional relationship with the effective bonded area and reached satisfactory values.

Attainment of 40.5 pm spatial resolution using 300 kV scanning transmission electron microscope equipped with fifth-order aberration corrector.

PubMed

Morishita, Shigeyuki; Ishikawa, Ryo; Kohno, Yuji; Sawada, Hidetaka; Shibata, Naoya; Ikuhara, Yuichi

2018-02-01

The achievement of a fine electron probe for high-resolution imaging in scanning transmission electron microscopy requires technological developments, especially in electron optics. For this purpose, we developed a microscope with a fifth-order aberration corrector that operates at 300 kV. The contrast flat region in an experimental Ronchigram, which indicates the aberration-free angle, was expanded to 70 mrad. By using a probe with convergence angle of 40 mrad in the scanning transmission electron microscope at 300 kV, we attained the spatial resolution of 40.5 pm, which is the projected interatomic distance between Ga-Ga atomic columns of GaN observed along [212] direction.

TRANSMISSION ELECTRON MICROSCOPY STUDY OF HELIUM BEARING FUSION WELDS

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Tosten, M; Michael Morgan, M

2008-12-12

A transmission electron microscopy (TEM) study was conducted to characterize the helium bubble distributions in tritium-charged-and-aged 304L and 21Cr-6Ni-9Mn stainless steel fusion welds containing approximately 150 appm helium-3. TEM foils were prepared from C-shaped fracture toughness test specimens containing {delta} ferrite levels ranging from 4 to 33 volume percent. The weld microstructures in the low ferrite welds consisted mostly of austenite and discontinuous, skeletal {delta} ferrite. In welds with higher levels of {delta} ferrite, the ferrite was more continuous and, in some areas of the 33 volume percent sample, was the matrix/majority phase. The helium bubble microstructures observed were similarmore » in all samples. Bubbles were found in the austenite but not in the {delta} ferrite. In the austenite, bubbles had nucleated homogeneously in the grain interiors and heterogeneously on dislocations. Bubbles were not found on any austenite/austenite grain boundaries or at the austenite/{delta} ferrite interphase interfaces. Bubbles were not observed in the {delta} ferrite because of the combined effects of the low solubility and rapid diffusion of tritium through the {delta} ferrite which limited the amount of helium present to form visible bubbles.« less

Improvement of bonding properties of laser transmission welded, dissimilar thermoplastics by plasma surface treatment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hopmann, Ch.; Weber, M.; Schöngart, M.; Sooriyapiragasam, S.; Behm, H.; Dahlmann, R.

2015-05-01

Compared to different welding methods such as ultrasonic welding, laser transmission welding is a relatively new technology to join thermoplastic parts. The most significant advantages over other methods are the contactless energy input which can be controlled very precisely and the low mechanical loads on the welded parts. Therefore, laser transmission welding is used in various areas of application, for example in medical technology or for assembling headlights in the automotive sector. However, there are several challenges in welding dissimilar thermoplastics. This may be due to different melting points on the one hand and different polarities on the other hand. So far these problems are faced with the intermediate layer technique. In this process a layer bonding together the two components is placed between the components. This means that an additional step in the production is needed to apply the extra layer. To avoid this additional step, different ways of joining dissimilar thermoplastics are investigated. In this regard, the improvement in the weldability of the dissimilar thermoplastics polyamide 6 (PA 6) and polypropylene (PP) by means of plasma surface modification and contour welding is examined. To evaluate the influence of the plasma surface modification process on the subsequent welding process of the two dissimilar materials, the treatment time as well as the storage time between treatment and welding are varied. The treatment time in pulsed micro wave excited oxygen plasmas with an electron density of about 1x1017 m-3 is varied from 0.5 s to 120 s and the time between treatment and welding is varied from a few minutes up to a week. As reference, parts being made of the same polymer (PP and PA 6) are welded and tested. For the evaluation of the results of the welding experiments, short-time tensile tests are used to determine the bond strength. Without plasma treatment the described combination of PA 6/PP cannot be welded with sufficient bond

Improvement of bonding properties of laser transmission welded, dissimilar thermoplastics by plasma surface treatment

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hopmann, Ch.; Weber, M.; Schöngart, M.

2015-05-22

Compared to different welding methods such as ultrasonic welding, laser transmission welding is a relatively new technology to join thermoplastic parts. The most significant advantages over other methods are the contactless energy input which can be controlled very precisely and the low mechanical loads on the welded parts. Therefore, laser transmission welding is used in various areas of application, for example in medical technology or for assembling headlights in the automotive sector. However, there are several challenges in welding dissimilar thermoplastics. This may be due to different melting points on the one hand and different polarities on the other hand.more » So far these problems are faced with the intermediate layer technique. In this process a layer bonding together the two components is placed between the components. This means that an additional step in the production is needed to apply the extra layer. To avoid this additional step, different ways of joining dissimilar thermoplastics are investigated. In this regard, the improvement in the weldability of the dissimilar thermoplastics polyamide 6 (PA 6) and polypropylene (PP) by means of plasma surface modification and contour welding is examined. To evaluate the influence of the plasma surface modification process on the subsequent welding process of the two dissimilar materials, the treatment time as well as the storage time between treatment and welding are varied. The treatment time in pulsed micro wave excited oxygen plasmas with an electron density of about 1x10{sup 17} m{sup −3} is varied from 0.5 s to 120 s and the time between treatment and welding is varied from a few minutes up to a week. As reference, parts being made of the same polymer (PP and PA 6) are welded and tested. For the evaluation of the results of the welding experiments, short-time tensile tests are used to determine the bond strength. Without plasma treatment the described combination of PA 6/PP cannot be welded with

Study of a phase-to-ground fault on a 400 kV overhead transmission line

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iagăr, A.; Popa, G. N.; Diniş, C. M.

2018-01-01

Power utilities need to supply their consumers at high power quality level. Because the faults that occur on High-Voltage and Extra-High-Voltage transmission lines can cause serious damages in underlying transmission and distribution systems, it is important to examine each fault in detail. In this work we studied a phase-to-ground fault (on phase 1) of 400 kV overhead transmission line Mintia-Arad. Indactic® 650 fault analyzing system was used to record the history of the fault. Signals (analog and digital) recorded by Indactic® 650 were visualized and analyzed by Focus program. Summary of fault report allowed evaluation of behavior of control and protection equipment and determination of cause and location of the fault.

Supplement Analysis for the Transmission System Vegetation Management Program FEIS (DOE/EIS-0285/SA-114) (Chehalis-Raymond #1, ADNO 8114)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Shurtliff, Aaron

2002-12-05

Vegetation Management for portion of the Chehalis-Raymond #1 115 kV transmission line. BPA proposes to clear targeted vegetation within the Right-of-Ways along access roads and around towers that may impede the operation and maintenance of the subject transmission lines. See Section 1.4 of the attached checklists for a complete description of the proposed action.

Investigations on laser transmission welding of absorber-free thermoplastics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mamuschkin, Viktor; Olowinsky, Alexander; Britten, Simon W.; Engelmann, Christoph

2014-03-01

Within the plastic industry laser transmission welding ranks among the most important joining techniques and opens up new application areas continuously. So far, a big disadvantage of the process was the fact that the joining partners need different optical properties. Since thermoplastics are transparent for the radiation of conventional beam sources (800- 1100 nm) the absorbance of one of the joining partners has to be enhanced by adding an infrared absorber (IR-absorber). Until recently, welding of absorber-free parts has not been possible. New diode lasers provide a broad variety of wavelengths which allows exploiting intrinsic absorption bands of thermoplastics. The use of a proper wavelength in combination with special optics enables laser welding of two optically identical polymer parts without absorbers which can be utilized in a large number of applications primarily in the medical and food industry, where the use of absorbers usually entails costly and time-consuming authorization processes. In this paper some aspects of the process are considered as the influence of the focal position, which is crucial when both joining partners have equal optical properties. After a theoretical consideration, an evaluation is carried out based on welding trials with polycarbonate (PC). Further aspects such as gap bridging capability and the influence of thickness of the upper joining partner are investigated as well.

Discover New Windsor Cantonment, The Last Encampment of Washington's Army. An Activities Learning Packet.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

New Windsor Cantonment State Historic Site, Vails Gate, NY.

The activities in this learning packet are designed to provide background information on the significance of New Windsor Cantonment to local, state, and U.S. history. The New Windsor Cantonment was the final winter encampment of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War and the site where the cessation of hostilities was announced in April…

75 FR 41894 - Carestream Health, Inc. Medical X-Ray Division Windsor, CO; Amended Certification Regarding...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-07-19

.... Medical X-Ray Division Windsor, CO; Amended Certification Regarding Eligibility To Apply for Worker... Carestream Health, Inc., X-Ray/Mammography Film Division, Windsor, Colorado. The notice was published in the... medical x-ray film. New information shows that the subject firm name was not identified in its entirety...

Change Agent Research for Windsor Minor Hockey.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Moriarty, Dick; Duthie, James

This study was based on an earlier 1972-73 study (see SP 009 113) which led to organizational restructuring of Windsor minor hockey (WMH). It was felt that further studies comparing attitudes and beliefs with behavior would be beneficial. Of particular interest were: (a) whether or not attitudes and beliefs changed due to adjusted organization and…

Windsor, Ontario Exposure Assessment Study: Design and Methods Validation of Personal, Indoor and Outdoor Air Pollution Monitoring

EPA Science Inventory

The Windsor, Ontario Exposure Assessment Study evaluated the contribution of ambient air pollutants to personal and indoor exposures of adults and asthmatic children living in Windsor, Ontario, Canada. In addition, the role of personal, indoor, and outdoor air pollution exposures...

Environmental Assessment for Central Power and Light Company`s proposed Military Highway-CFE tie 138/69-kV transmission line project Brownsville, Cameron County, Texas

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Not Available

Central Power and Light Company (CPL) intends to upgrade its existing transmission line ties with the Commision Federal de Electricidad (CFE) system in Mexico. CPL currently has a single 69-kilovolt (kV) transmission line in the Brownsville area which connects CPL`s system with the system of CFE. This existing line runs between the Brownsville Switching Station, located on Laredo Road in Brownsville, Cameron County, Texas, and an existing CFE 69-kV line at the Rusteberg Bend of the Rio Grande in Cameron County. Under current conditions of need, the existing 69-kV line does not possess sufficient capability to engage in appropriate powermore » exchanges. Therefore, CPL is proposing to build a new line to link up with CFE. This proposed line would be a double-circuit line, which would (1) continue (on a slightly relocated route) the existing 69-kV tie from CPL`s Brownsville Switching Station to CFE`s facilities, and (2) add a 138-kV tie from the Military Highway Substation, located on Military Highway (US Highway 281), to CFE`s facilities. The proposed 138/69-kV line, which will be constructed and operated by CPL, will be built primarily on steel single-pole structures within an average 60-foot (ft) wide right-of-way (ROW). It will be approximately 6900--9200 ft (1.3--1.7 miles) in length, depending on the alternative route constructed.« less

49 CFR 179.200-10 - Welding.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 49 Transportation 3 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Welding. 179.200-10 Section 179.200-10...-Pressure Tank Car Tanks (Classes DOT-111AW and 115AW) § 179.200-10 Welding. (a) All joints shall be fusion... § 171.7 of this subchapter). Welding procedures, welders and fabricators shall be approved. (b) Welding...

49 CFR 179.200-10 - Welding.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 49 Transportation 3 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Welding. 179.200-10 Section 179.200-10...-Pressure Tank Car Tanks (Classes DOT-111AW and 115AW) § 179.200-10 Welding. (a) All joints shall be fusion... § 171.7 of this subchapter). Welding procedures, welders and fabricators shall be approved. (b) Welding...

49 CFR 179.200-10 - Welding.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 49 Transportation 3 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Welding. 179.200-10 Section 179.200-10...-Pressure Tank Car Tanks (Classes DOT-111AW and 115AW) § 179.200-10 Welding. (a) All joints shall be fusion... § 171.7 of this subchapter). Welding procedures, welders and fabricators shall be approved. (b) Welding...

49 CFR 179.200-10 - Welding.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 49 Transportation 3 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Welding. 179.200-10 Section 179.200-10...-Pressure Tank Car Tanks (Classes DOT-111AW and 115AW) § 179.200-10 Welding. (a) All joints shall be fusion... § 171.7 of this subchapter). Welding procedures, welders and fabricators shall be approved. (b) Welding...

Supplement Analysis for the Transmission System Vegetation Management Program FEIS (DOE/EIS-0285/SA-221) Project #: V-O-04/10 - Paul-Allston No 1 and 2 - 500 kV Transmission Line Corridor

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Stratton, Elaine S.

2004-07-26

The project activities will be conducted along the Right-of-Way (ROW) of the Paul-Allston No 1 and 2 - 500 kV transmission line corridor between towers 45/4 and the Allston substation. This corridor includes portions of the Longview-Allston No 1 and 2 and the Longview-Allston No 3 and 4 - 230 kV transmission lines. The corridor along this section of the proposed project varies between 125 and 150 feet in width and crosses approximately 4 miles of terrain from Longview, Washington crossing the Columbia River and passing through rural forestland and pasture lands to the Allston Substation in Oregon. BPA proposesmore » to remove unwanted vegetation along the right-of-way, along access roads and around tower structures along the subject transmission line corridor that may impede the operation and maintenance of the identified transmission lines. BPA plans to conduct vegetation control with the goal of removing tall growing vegetation that is currently or will soon be a hazard to the transmission line. BPA’s overall goal is to have low-growing plant communities along the rights-of-way to control the development of potentially threatening vegetation.« less

46 CFR 160.115-13 - Approval inspections and tests for prototype winches.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... reviewed under § 160.115-9 of this subpart; and (C) When welding is part of the construction process, is constructed by the welding procedure and materials as per the plans reviewed under § 160.115-9 of this subpart and the welders are appropriately qualified; (ii) Assuring that the quality-assurance program of the...

46 CFR 160.115-13 - Approval inspections and tests for prototype winches.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... reviewed under § 160.115-9 of this subpart; and (C) When welding is part of the construction process, is constructed by the welding procedure and materials as per the plans reviewed under § 160.115-9 of this subpart and the welders are appropriately qualified; (ii) Assuring that the quality-assurance program of the...

46 CFR 160.115-13 - Approval inspections and tests for prototype winches.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... reviewed under § 160.115-9 of this subpart; and (C) When welding is part of the construction process, is constructed by the welding procedure and materials as per the plans reviewed under § 160.115-9 of this subpart and the welders are appropriately qualified; (ii) Assuring that the quality-assurance program of the...

Analysis of weld geometry and liquid flow in laser transmission welding between polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and Ti6Al4V based on numerical simulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ai, Yuewei; Zheng, Kang; Shin, Yung C.; Wu, Benxin

2018-07-01

The laser transmission welding of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and titanium alloy Ti6Al4V involving the evaluating of the resultant geometry and quality of welds is investigated using a fiber laser in this paper. A 3D transient numerical model considering the melting and fluid flow is developed to predict the weld geometry and porosity formation. The temperature field, molten pool and liquid flow are simulated with varying laser power and welding speed based on the model. It is observed that the weld geometry predictions from the numerical simulation are in good agreement with the experimental data. The results show that the porosity consistently appears in the high temperature region due to the decomposition of PET. In addition, it has also been found that the molten pool with a vortex flow pattern is formed only in the PET layer and the welding processing parameters have significant effects on the fluid flow, which eventually affects the heat transfer, molten pool geometry and weld formation. Consequently, it is shown adopting appropriate welding processing parameters based on the proposed model is essential for the sound weld without defects.

Supplement Analysis for the Transmission System Vegetation Management Program FEIS (DOE/EIS-0285/SA-40) - Allston-Keeler 500 kV Transmission Line

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hermeston, Mark W.

2002-02-19

Vegetation Management along the Allston-Keeler 500 kV Transmission Line ROW exclusive to BLM lands between 8/4 through 27/4. The proposed work will be accomplished in the indicated sections of the transmission line corridor with an average corridor width of 150 feet. BPA proposes to clear unwanted vegetation in the rights-of-ways and around tower structures that may impede the operation and maintenance of the subject transmission lines and access roads, including Reclaim and Danger Trees. The lands in this SA are administered by BLM. BPA plans to conduct vegetation control with the goal of removing tall growing vegetation that is currentlymore » or will soon be a hazard to the transmission line. BPA’s overall goal is to have low-growing plant communities along the rights-of-way to control the development of potentially threatening vegetation. All work will be executed in accordance with the National Electrical Safety Code and BPA standards. Work is to begin in March 2002. In accordance with a court injunction, no chemical treatment is planned on BLM lands.« less

Proceedings of the 1996 Windsor workshop on alternative fuels

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

NONE

1996-10-01

This document contains information which was presented at the 1996 Windsor Workshop on Alternative Fuels. Topics include: international links; industry topics and infrastructure issues; propane; engine developments; the cleanliness of alternative fuels; heavy duty alternative fuel engines; California zev commercialization efforts; and in-use experience.

49 CFR 179.220-10 - Welding.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 49 Transportation 2 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Welding. 179.220-10 Section 179.220-10... Specifications for Non-Pressure Tank Car Tanks (Classes DOT-111AW and 115AW) § 179.220-10 Welding. (a) All joints... of this subchapter). Welding procedures, welders, and fabricators shall be approved. (b) Radioscopy...

46 CFR 160.115-9 - Preapproval review.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... inventory of materials; (iii) The method for checking quality of fabrication and joints, including welding... §§ 160.115-19 and 160.115-21 of this subpart; (5) A description of the quality control procedures and... between the independent laboratory and Commandant under 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.010. (d) Plan quality...

46 CFR 160.115-9 - Preapproval review.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... inventory of materials; (iii) The method for checking quality of fabrication and joints, including welding... §§ 160.115-19 and 160.115-21 of this subpart; (5) A description of the quality control procedures and... between the independent laboratory and Commandant under 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.010. (d) Plan quality...

46 CFR 160.115-9 - Preapproval review.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... inventory of materials; (iii) The method for checking quality of fabrication and joints, including welding... §§ 160.115-19 and 160.115-21 of this subpart; (5) A description of the quality control procedures and... between the independent laboratory and Commandant under 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.010. (d) Plan quality...

49 CFR 179.220-10 - Welding.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 49 Transportation 3 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Welding. 179.220-10 Section 179.220-10...-Pressure Tank Car Tanks (Classes DOT-111AW and 115AW) § 179.220-10 Welding. (a) All joints must be fusion... subchapter). Welding procedures, welders, and fabricators shall be approved. (b) Radioscopy of the outer...

49 CFR 179.220-10 - Welding.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 49 Transportation 3 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Welding. 179.220-10 Section 179.220-10...-Pressure Tank Car Tanks (Classes DOT-111AW and 115AW) § 179.220-10 Welding. (a) All joints must be fusion... subchapter). Welding procedures, welders, and fabricators shall be approved. (b) Radioscopy of the outer...

49 CFR 179.220-10 - Welding.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 49 Transportation 3 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Welding. 179.220-10 Section 179.220-10...-Pressure Tank Car Tanks (Classes DOT-111AW and 115AW) § 179.220-10 Welding. (a) All joints must be fusion... subchapter). Welding procedures, welders, and fabricators shall be approved. (b) Radioscopy of the outer...

49 CFR 179.220-10 - Welding.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 49 Transportation 3 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Welding. 179.220-10 Section 179.220-10...-Pressure Tank Car Tanks (Classes DOT-111AW and 115AW) § 179.220-10 Welding. (a) All joints must be fusion... subchapter). Welding procedures, welders, and fabricators shall be approved. (b) Radioscopy of the outer...

49 CFR 179.200-10 - Welding.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 49 Transportation 2 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Welding. 179.200-10 Section 179.200-10... Specifications for Non-Pressure Tank Car Tanks (Classes DOT-111AW and 115AW) § 179.200-10 Welding. (a) All joints... W (IBR, see § 171.7 of this subchapter). Welding procedures, welders and fabricators shall be...

Change Agent Research for Windsor Aquatic Club (CAR/WAC).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Moriarty, Dick; Olafson, Gord

This study of the Windsor Aquatic Club (WAC) was undertaken to investigate the following problems and questions: (a) identification of goals; (b) conflict in the interface of age class and school class swimming, as well as the interface of municipal, regional, provincial, federal, and international organizations; (c) identification of task,…

The impact of Ontario’s extended drinking hours on cross-border cities of Windsor and Detroit

PubMed Central

Vingilis, E.; McLeod, A.I.; Seeley, J.; Mann, R.; Voas, R.; Compton, C.

2008-01-01

Purpose This study evaluated the cross-border safety impact of extended drinking hours from 1:00 to 2:00 a.m., in licensed establishments in Ontario, Canada. Methods This study examined patterns in total and alcohol-related casualties in: (1) Windsor, Ontario, Canada compared to Detroit, Michigan, US with a 2:00 a.m. closing time, and (2) Ontario compared to Michigan for overall trends. The criterion outcome indicators were: (1) monthly motor vehicle casualties (major injuries and fatalities) for the city-regions of Windsor and Detroit and (2) Ontario and Michigan monthly motor vehicle fatalities occurring between 11:00 p.m. and 3:00 a.m. for 4 years pre- and 3 years post-policy change. In order to examine cross-border drinking consequences, data were disaggregated to assess trends of motor vehicle injury collisions involving vehicles with US licence plates and with US drivers aged 16–20 in the Windsor region; similarly trends were assessed for motor vehicle injury collisions involving vehicles with Ontario licence plates in the Detroit region. Results The Windsor region total motor vehicle casualty data showed a non-significant pre–post increase, while the Detroit region showed a statistically significant decrease for total motor vehicle casualties. In the Windsor region, a significant increase was found for alcohol-related motor vehicle casualties after the drinking hours were extended. However, the Detroit region showed a statistically significant decrease in alcohol-related motor vehicle casualties concomitant with Ontario’s drinking hour extension. No similar trends were found for the province of Ontario and the state of Michigan as a whole. Moreover, a significant decrease was found for injury collisions involving vehicles with Ontario licence plates in the Detroit region but no similar pattern was found for injury collisions involving vehicles with US licence plates and with 16–20-year-old US drivers in the Windsor region. Discussion These data seem

Environmental Assessment and Finding of No Significant Impact: Curecanti-Lost Canyon 230-kV Transmission Line Reroute Project, Montrose County, Colorado

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

N /A

2000-03-20

The Department of Energy (DOE), Western Area Power Administration (Western) is proposing to reroute a section of the Curecanti-Lost Canyon 230-kilovolt (kV) transmission line, in Montrose County, Colorado. A portion of the transmission line, situated 11 miles southeast of Montrose, Colorado, crosses Waterdog Peak, an area of significant geologic surface activity, which is causing the transmission line's lattice steel towers to shift. This increases stress to structure hardware and conductors, and poses a threat to the integrity of the transmission system. Western proposes to relocate the lattice steel towers and line to a more geologically stable area. The existing sectionmore » of transmission line and the proposed relocation route cross Bureau of Land Management and private land holdings.« less

46 CFR 115.645 - Alternative Hull Examination (AHE) Procedure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Alternative Hull Examination (AHE) Procedure. 115.645... AND CERTIFICATION Hull and Tailshaft Examinations § 115.645 Alternative Hull Examination (AHE... underwater hull plating and a detailed examination of all hull welds, propellers, tailshafts, rudders, and...

Supplement Analysis for the Transmission System Vegetation Management Program FEIS (DOE/EIS-0285/SA-15)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

N /A

reliability. The subject transmission lines range from 115kV to 230kV and are made up of accompanying access roads, steel and wooden transmission line structures and associated switching platforms. The minimum clearance ranges from 21 feet for 115kV lines to 23 feet for 230kV lines. ROW easement widths vary along the length of the project. Vegetation control for this project is designed to provide a 3 year maintenance free interval. In summary, the overall vegetation management scheme will be to selectively remove tall growing vegetation then apply selective herbicide treatment using cut stump applications.« less

Supplement Analysis for the Transmission System Vegetation Management Program FEIS (DOE/EIS-0285/SA-122- Bonneville-Alcoa

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Stratton, Elaine

2003-02-19

Vegetation Management for the Bonneville-Alcoa 115kV transmission line. BPA proposes to remove unwanted vegetation along the right-of-way, along access roads and around tower structures along the subject transmission line corridor that may impede the operation and maintenance of the identified transmission lines. All work will be in accordance with the National Electrical Safety Code and BPA standards. BPA plans to conduct vegetation control with the goal of removing tall growing vegetation that is currently or will soon be a hazard to the transmission line. BPA’s overall goal is to have low-growing plant communities along the rights-of-way to control the developmentmore » of potentially threatening vegetation.« less

Boy-Only Classrooms: Gender Reform in Windsor, Ontario 1966-1972

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Greig, Christopher John

2011-01-01

From 1966 to 1972, Flintridge Elementary school located in Windsor, Ontario, Canada implemented a short lived gender reform plan to help raise boys' achievement. Shaped by a variety of complex historical factors and fuelled by a desire for innovation, educators from Flintridge Elementary sought to address the educational needs of primary school…

In-situ infrared thermography measurements to master transmission laser welding process parameters of PEKK

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Villar, M.; Garnier, C.; Chabert, F.; Nassiet, V.; Samélor, D.; Diez, J. C.; Sotelo, A.; Madre, M. A.

2018-07-01

The temperature field along the thickness of the specimens has been measured during transmission laser welding. Polyetherketoneketone (PEKK) is a very high performance thermoplastic with tunable properties. We have shown that this grade of PEKK can be turned to quasi-amorphous or semi-crystalline material, due to its slow kinetics of crystallization. Its glass transition temperature is 150 °C. The effect of its crystalline rate directly impacts its optical properties: the transmittance of quasi-amorphous PEKK is about 60% in the NIR region (wavelength range from 0.4 to 1.2 μm) whereas it is less than 3% for the semi-crystalline material. The welding tests have been carried out with an 808 nm laser diode apparatus. The heat field is recorded during the welding experiment by infrared thermography with the camera sensor perpendicular to the lasersheet and to the sample's length to focus on the welded interface. The study is divided in two steps: firstly, a single specimen is irradiated with an energy density of 22 J.mm-²: the whole sample thickness is heated up, the maximum temperature reaches 222 ± 7 °C. This temperature corresponds to about Tg + 70 °C, but the polymer does not reach its melting temperature. After that, welding tests were performed: a transparent (quasi-amorphous) sample as the upper part and an opaque (semi-crystalline) one as the lower part were assembled in static conditions. The maximum temperature reached at the welded interface is about 295 °C when the upper specimen is irradiated for 16 s with an energy density of 28 J.mm-². The temperature at the welded interface stays above Tg during 55 s and reached the melting temperature during 5 s before rapid cooling. These parameters are suitable to assemble both polymeric parts in a strong weld. This work shows that infrared thermography is an appropriate technique to improve the reliability of laser welding process of high performance thermoplastics.

Supplement Analysis for the Transmission System Vegetation Management Program FEIS (DOE/EIS-0285/SA-141- Salem Albany #2)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Barndt, Shawn L.

Vegetation Management for the Salem Albany #2 115 kV transmission line from Salem Substation to Albany Substation. BPA proposes to remove unwanted vegetation along the right-of-way, access roads, switch platforms, microwave beam paths, and around tower structures of the subject transmission line corridor that may impede the operation and maintenance of the identified transmission lines. BPA plans to conduct vegetation control with the goal of removing tall growing vegetation that is currently or will soon be a hazard to the transmission line. BPA’s overall goal is to have low-growing plant communities along the rights-of-way to control the development of potentiallymore » threatening vegetation.« less

Tamoxifen Inhibition of Kv7.2/Kv7.3 Channels

PubMed Central

Ferrer, Tania; Aréchiga-Figueroa, Ivan Arael; Shapiro, Mark S.; Tristani-Firouzi, Martin; Sanchez-Chapula, José A.

2013-01-01

KCNQ genes encode five Kv7 K+ channel subunits (Kv7.1–Kv7.5). Four of these (Kv7.2–Kv7.5) are expressed in the nervous system. Kv7.2 and Kv7.3 are the principal molecular components of the slow voltage-gated M-channel, which regulates neuronal excitability. In this study, we demonstrate that tamoxifen, an estrogen receptor antagonist used in the treatment of breast cancer, inhibits Kv7.2/Kv7.3 currents heterologously expressed in human embryonic kidney HEK-293 cells. Current inhibition by tamoxifen was voltage independent but concentration-dependent. The IC50 for current inhibition was 1.68 ± 0.44 µM. The voltage-dependent activation of the channel was not modified. Tamoxifen inhibited Kv7.2 homomeric channels with a higher potency (IC50 = 0.74 ± 0.16 µM). The mutation Kv7.2 R463E increases phosphatidylinositol- 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) - channel interaction and diminished dramatically the inhibitory effect of tamoxifen compared with that for wild type Kv7.2. Conversely, the mutation Kv7.2 R463Q, which decreases PIP2 -channel interaction, increased tamoxifen potency. Similar results were obtained on the heteromeric Kv7.2 R463Q/Kv7.3 and Kv7.2 R463E/Kv7.3 channels, compared to Kv7.2/Kv7.3 WT. Overexpression of type 2A PI(4)P5-kinase (PIP5K 2A) significantly reduced tamoxifen inhibition of Kv7.2/Kv7.3 and Kv7.2 R463Q channels. Our results suggest that tamoxifen inhibited Kv7.2/Kv7.3 channels by interfering with PIP2-channel interaction because of its documented interaction with PIP2 and the similar effect of tamoxifen on various PIP2 sensitive channels. PMID:24086693

Tamoxifen inhibition of kv7.2/kv7.3 channels.

PubMed

Ferrer, Tania; Aréchiga-Figueroa, Ivan Arael; Shapiro, Mark S; Tristani-Firouzi, Martin; Sanchez-Chapula, José A

2013-01-01

KCNQ genes encode five Kv7 K(+) channel subunits (Kv7.1-Kv7.5). Four of these (Kv7.2-Kv7.5) are expressed in the nervous system. Kv7.2 and Kv7.3 are the principal molecular components of the slow voltage-gated M-channel, which regulates neuronal excitability. In this study, we demonstrate that tamoxifen, an estrogen receptor antagonist used in the treatment of breast cancer, inhibits Kv7.2/Kv7.3 currents heterologously expressed in human embryonic kidney HEK-293 cells. Current inhibition by tamoxifen was voltage independent but concentration-dependent. The IC50 for current inhibition was 1.68 ± 0.44 µM. The voltage-dependent activation of the channel was not modified. Tamoxifen inhibited Kv7.2 homomeric channels with a higher potency (IC50 = 0.74 ± 0.16 µM). The mutation Kv7.2 R463E increases phosphatidylinositol- 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) - channel interaction and diminished dramatically the inhibitory effect of tamoxifen compared with that for wild type Kv7.2. Conversely, the mutation Kv7.2 R463Q, which decreases PIP2 -channel interaction, increased tamoxifen potency. Similar results were obtained on the heteromeric Kv7.2 R463Q/Kv7.3 and Kv7.2 R463E/Kv7.3 channels, compared to Kv7.2/Kv7.3 WT. Overexpression of type 2A PI(4)P5-kinase (PIP5K 2A) significantly reduced tamoxifen inhibition of Kv7.2/Kv7.3 and Kv7.2 R463Q channels. Our results suggest that tamoxifen inhibited Kv7.2/Kv7.3 channels by interfering with PIP2-channel interaction because of its documented interaction with PIP2 and the similar effect of tamoxifen on various PIP2 sensitive channels.

The effects of high voltage transmission lines on honey bees. Interim report. [765 kV transmission line

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Greenberg, B.; Kunich, J.C.; Bindokas, V.P.

1978-10-01

Results of the first year's field study of possible effects on honey bees of a 765 kV transmission line are reported. Conventional hives and metal-free hives, shielded and unshielded, were placed under the line (E-field, ca. 7 kV/m) and in a control area (E-field, ca. 10 V/m) about 400 m away. Bees in unshielded conventional hives under the line weighed less, stored little honey whose moisture content was subnormal (hive weight gain was essentially zero), propolyzed hive entrances excessively but not completely, produced fewer pupae but normal numbers of eggs and larvae, and failed to survive the winter. Unshielded metal-freemore » hives under the line had the following normal features: bee weight; hive weight gain; honey moisture content; and number of eggs, larvae, and pupae. Their abnormal features were: propolization of hive entrances, but at a slower rate and to a lesser extent than conventional hives; aggressive clusters of bees at lower front hive corners; poor overwintering survival; and possibly higher hemocyte counts.« less

Identification of the Quality Spot Welding used Non Destructive Test-Ultrasonic Testing: (Effect of Welding Time)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sifa, A.; Endramawan, T.; Badruzzaman

2017-03-01

Resistance Spot Welding (RSW) is frequently used as one way of welding is used in the manufacturing process, especially in the automotive industry [4][5][6][7]. Several parameters influence the process of welding points. To determine the quality of a welding job needs to be tested, either by damaging or testing without damage, in this study conducted experimental testing the quality of welding or identify quality of the nugget by using Non-Destructive Test (NDT) -Ultrasonic Testing (UT), in which the identification of the quality of the welding is done with parameter thickness of worksheet after welding using NDT-UT with use same material worksheet and have more thickness of worksheet, the thickness of the worksheet single plate 1mm, with the capability of propagation Ultrasonic Testing (UT) standard limited> 3 mm [1], welding process parameters such as the time difference between 1-10s and the welding current of 8 KV, visually Heat Affected Zone ( HAZ ) have different results due to the length of time of welding. UT uses a probe that is used with a frequency of 4 MHz, diameter 10 mm, range 100 and the couplant used is oil. Identification techniques using drop 6dB, with sound velocity 2267 m / s of Fe, with the result that the effect of the Welding time affect the size of the HAZ, identification with the lowest time 1s show results capable identified joined through NDT - UT.

Atomic force microscopy and transmission electron microscopy analyses of low-temperature laser welding of the cornea.

PubMed

Matteini, Paolo; Sbrana, Francesca; Tiribilli, Bruno; Pini, Roberto

2009-07-01

Low-temperature laser welding of the cornea is a technique used to facilitate the closure of corneal cuts. The procedure consists of staining the wound with a chromophore (indocyanine green), followed by continuous wave irradiation with an 810 nm diode laser operated at low power densities (12-16 W/cm(2)), which induces local heating in the 55-65 degrees C range. In this study, we aimed to investigate the ultrastructural modifications in the extracellular matrix following laser welding of corneal wounds by means of atomic force microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The results evidenced marked disorganization of the normal fibrillar assembly, although collagen appeared not to be denatured under the operating conditions we employed. The mechanism of low-temperature laser welding may be related to some structural modifications of the nonfibrillar extracellular components of the corneal stroma.

Study on Welding Mechanism Based on Modification of Polypropylene for Improving the Laser Transmission Weldability to PA66

PubMed Central

Liu, Huixia; Jiang, Hairong; Guo, Dehui; Chen, Guochun; Yan, Zhang; Li, Pin; Zhu, Hejun; Chen, Jun; Wang, Xiao

2015-01-01

Polypropylene and PA66 are widely used in our daily life, but they cannot be welded by laser transmission welding (LTW) because of polar differences and poor compatibility. In this paper, grafting modification technology is used to improve the welding performance between polypropylene and PA66. Firstly, the strong reactive and polar maleic-anhydride (MAH) is grafted to polypropylene and infrared spectrometer is used to prove that MAH has been grafted to polypropylene. At the same time, the mechanical and thermal properties of the graft modified polypropylene (TGMPP) are tested. The results prove that the grafting modification has little influence on them. Also, the optical properties of TGMPP are measured. Then, the high welding strength between TGMPP and PA66 is found and the mechanism of the weldability is researched, which shows that there are two reasons for the high welding strength. By observing the micro morphology of the welding zone, one reason found is that the modification of polypropylene can improve the compatibility between polypropylene and PA66 and make them easy to diffuse mutually, which causes many locking structures formed in the welding region. The other reason is that there are chemical reactions between TGMPP and PA66 proved by the X-ray photoelectron spectrometer. PMID:28793484

Investigation on the Mechanism and Failure Mode of Laser Transmission Spot Welding Using PMMA Material for the Automotive Industry

PubMed Central

Wang, Xiao; Liu, Baoguang; Liu, Wei; Zhong, Xuejiao; Jiang, Yingjie; Liu, Huixia

2017-01-01

To satisfy the need of polymer connection in lightweight automobiles, a study on laser transmission spot welding using polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) is conducted by using an Nd:YAG pulse laser. The influence of three variables, namely peak voltages, defocusing distances and the welding type (type I (pulse frequency and the duration is 25 Hz, 0.6 s) and type II (pulse frequency and the duration is 5 Hz, 3 s)) to the welding quality was investigated. The result showed that, in the case of the same peak voltages and defocusing distances, the number of bubbles for type I was obviously more than type II. The failure mode of type I was the base plate fracture along the solder joint, and the connection strength of type I was greater than type II. The weld pool diameter:depth ratio for type I was significantly greater than type II. It could be seen that there was a certain relationship between the weld pool diameter:depth ratio and the welding strength. By the finite element simulation, the weld pool for type I was more slender than type II, which was approximately the same as the experimental results. PMID:28772383

Investigation on the Mechanism and Failure Mode of Laser Transmission Spot Welding Using PMMA Material for the Automotive Industry.

PubMed

Wang, Xiao; Liu, Baoguang; Liu, Wei; Zhong, Xuejiao; Jiang, Yingjie; Liu, Huixia

2017-01-01

To satisfy the need of polymer connection in lightweight automobiles, a study on laser transmission spot welding using polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) is conducted by using an Nd:YAG pulse laser. The influence of three variables, namely peak voltages, defocusing distances and the welding type (type I (pulse frequency and the duration is 25 Hz, 0.6 s) and type II (pulse frequency and the duration is 5 Hz, 3 s)) to the welding quality was investigated. The result showed that, in the case of the same peak voltages and defocusing distances, the number of bubbles for type I was obviously more than type II. The failure mode of type I was the base plate fracture along the solder joint, and the connection strength of type I was greater than type II. The weld pool diameter:depth ratio for type I was significantly greater than type II. It could be seen that there was a certain relationship between the weld pool diameter:depth ratio and the welding strength. By the finite element simulation, the weld pool for type I was more slender than type II, which was approximately the same as the experimental results.

Developing and testing a framework for alternative ownership, tenure and governance strategies for the proposed Detroit-Windsor River crossing : phase I report, February 2009.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-02-01

This study focuses on a proposed international crossing across the Detroit River, connecting the cities of Detroit, Michigan and Windsor, Canada, and replacing the current Ambassador Bridge and Detroit-Windsor Tunnel, both built during the late 1920s...

46 CFR 115.710 - Inspection and testing prior to hot work.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Inspection and testing prior to hot work. 115.710... AND CERTIFICATION Repairs and Alterations § 115.710 Inspection and testing prior to hot work. (a) An... involving riveting, welding, burning, or other fire producing actions may be made aboard a vessel: (1...

Establishment of a Continuous Wave Laser Welding Process

DTIC Science & Technology

1976-10-01

gas channel . A stiff bridge clamp with threaded force points was used on half inch plate welds to iron out waviness in the test coupons. Several...34 back up channel * 10.5kW on work 11-17 ^^^^^^^ ■ u u mi u.üiijüuiiiii IK««,,.! umm j,- u.jipiHi^iMii.ijii.ijiji j! J u„„, On each of four days...welded at 40 ipm using maximum available power on the surface (12.6 KV7 for the F/7 optical system) . Contours improved but porosity formed in the

A Greek physician's portrait in Windsor Castle.

PubMed

Bartsocas, Christos S

2017-01-01

To the visitor to Windsor Castle, the Thomas Lawrence portraits in the Waterloo Chamber represent the most important contributors to the military defeat of Napoleon Bonaparte, by British, Prussian, Russian and Austrian forces at the Battle of Waterloo. Nevertheless, only few individuals realise that a Greek physician, Count Ioannis Capodistrias, a native of the island of Corfu, stands among these leading personalities as a diplomat, the Russian Minister of Foreign Affairs, who contributed remarkably to European unity in the early nineteenth century and as a statesman ('Governor' of Greece) with a tragic end to his life, after establishing a Greek State practically from ruins.

Sports Institute for Research/Change Agent Research (SIR/CAR) Windsor Minor Hockey.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Moriarty, Dick; Duthie, James

This organizational analysis of Windsor minor hockey was conducted as a pilot study into the policy decision making process in a sports organization. The study was divided into three phases. In the first phase the organization was audited and provided with information about various feedback channels. In phase two observations, available…

Design of a 300-kV gas environmental transmission electron microscope equipped with a cold field emission gun.

PubMed

Isakozawa, Shigeto; Nagaoki, Isao; Watabe, Akira; Nagakubo, Yasuhira; Saito, Nobuhiro; Matsumoto, Hiroaki; Zhang, Xiao Feng; Taniguchi, Yoshifumi; Baba, Norio

2016-08-01

A new in situ environmental transmission electron microscope (ETEM) was developed based on a 300 kV TEM with a cold field emission gun (CFEG). Particular caution was taken in the ETEM design to assure uncompromised imaging and analytical performance of the TEM. Because of the improved pumping system between the gun and column, the vacuum of CFEG was largely improved and the probe current was sufficiently stabilized to operate without tip flashing for 2-3 h or longer. A high brightness of 2.5 × 10(9) A/cm(2) sr was measured at 300 kV, verifying the high quality of the CFEG electron beam. A specially designed gas injection-heating holder was used in the in situ TEM study at elevated temperatures with or without gas around the TEM specimen. Using this holder in a 10 Pa gas atmosphere and specimen temperatures up to 1000°C, high-resolution ETEM performance and analysis were achieved. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Japanese Society of Microscopy. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Law Schools and Public Legal Education: The Community Law Programme at Windsor.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

MacDonald, R. A.

1979-01-01

Described is a public legal education program at the University of Windsor (Canada) that aims to educate the layperson in Canadian law and procedure. Objectives, program elements, and ancillary activities are outlined briefly. Available from The Carswell Co., Ltd., 2330 Midland Ave., Agincourt, Ontario M1S 1P7 Canada. (MSE)

76 FR 56791 - Notice of Availability of Record of Decision for the Tropic To Hatch (Garkane) 138 kV...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-09-14

... DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Bureau of Land Management [LLUT0300000 L17110000 DT0000 24 1A] Notice of Availability of Record of Decision for the Tropic To Hatch (Garkane) 138 kV Transmission Line... Hatch (Garkane) 138 kilovolt (kV) Transmission Line Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and the...

Analysis of Safety Protection Measures for Maintenance Work of 500 kV Double-Circuit Transmission Lines on Same Tower

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Qi; Zou, Dehua; Zhang, Jianjun; Li, Hui; Chen, Jianping; Li, Jinliang

2017-05-01

Four transmission lines on the same tower are widely used because of their obvious economic and social benefits. But it also has high power supply reliability, so the choice of reasonable maintenance mode is particularly important. In this paper, we deducted the maintenance influence of the energized line to non-energized line, calculated and analyzed protection measures of non-energized singular line of 500kV double-circuit transmission line on the same tower with ATP software, and calculated field intensity distribution of typical operating position of the energized double-circuit transmission line with the finite element software. The calculation shows that when using the outage maintenance method, hanging both ground current and personal security line can reduce the current flowing through the operator’s body effectively. When using the live maintenance method, the field intensity of operator body strengths up to 383.69kV/m, The operator needs to wear shielding cloth with at least 43.08 dB shielding efficiency, in order to meet the security requirements.

Differential Protein Kinase C-dependent Modulation of Kv7.4 and Kv7.5 Subunits of Vascular Kv7 Channels*

PubMed Central

Brueggemann, Lioubov I.; Mackie, Alexander R.; Cribbs, Leanne L.; Freda, Jessica; Tripathi, Abhishek; Majetschak, Matthias; Byron, Kenneth L.

2014-01-01

The Kv7 family (Kv7.1–7.5) of voltage-activated potassium channels contributes to the maintenance of resting membrane potential in excitable cells. Previously, we provided pharmacological and electrophysiological evidence that Kv7.4 and Kv7.5 form predominantly heteromeric channels and that Kv7 activity is regulated by protein kinase C (PKC) in response to vasoconstrictors in vascular smooth muscle cells. Direct evidence for Kv7.4/7.5 heteromer formation, however, is lacking. Furthermore, it remains to be determined whether both subunits are regulated by PKC. Utilizing proximity ligation assays to visualize single molecule interactions, we now show that Kv7.4/Kv.7.5 heteromers are endogenously expressed in vascular smooth muscle cells. Introduction of dominant-negative Kv7.4 and Kv7.5 subunits in mesenteric artery myocytes reduced endogenous Kv7 currents by 84 and 76%, respectively. Expression of an inducible protein kinase Cα (PKCα) translocation system revealed that PKCα activation is sufficient to suppress endogenous Kv7 currents in A7r5 rat aortic and mesenteric artery smooth muscle cells. Arginine vasopressin (100 and 500 pm) and the PKC activator phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (1 nm) each inhibited human (h) Kv7.5 and hKv7.4/7.5, but not hKv7.4 channels expressed in A7r5 cells. A decrease in hKv7.5 and hKv7.4/7.5 current densities was associated with an increase in PKC-dependent phosphorylation of the channel proteins. These findings provide further evidence for a differential regulation of Kv7.4 and Kv7.5 channel subunits by PKC-dependent phosphorylation and new mechanistic insights into the role of heteromeric subunit assembly for regulation of vascular Kv7 channels. PMID:24297175

Welding-fume-induced transmission loss in tapered optical fibers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yi, Ji-Haeng

2015-09-01

This paper presents a method for sensing welding fumes in real time. This method is based on the results of nanoparticle-induced optical-fiber loss experiments that show that the losses are determined by the nanoparticle density and the taper waist. The tapered fiber is obtained by applying heat radiated from hot quartz, and monitoring is done in real time. First, the durability of the tapered fiber during the welding process is proven. Then, the loss is categorized by using the sizes of welding fume particles. The sensitivity to welding fumes increases with increasing size of the particles; consequently, the dimension of the taper waist decreases.

Laser transmission welding of poly(ethylene terephthalate) and biodegradable poly(ethylene terephthalate) - Based blends

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gisario, Annamaria; Veniali, Francesco; Barletta, Massimiliano; Tagliaferri, Vincenzo; Vesco, Silvia

2017-03-01

Joining of Poly(Ethylene Terephthalate) PET and its biodegradable derivatives is of high relevance to ensure good productive rate, low cost and operational safety for fabrication of medical and electronic devices, sport equipments as well as for manufacturing of food and drug packaging solutions. In the present investigation, granules of PET and PETs modified by organic additives, which promote biodegradation of the polymeric chains, were prepared by extrusion compounding. The achieved granules were subsequently re-extruded to shape thin (330 μm) flat sheets. Substrates cut from these sheets were joined by Laser Transmission Welding (LTW) with a continuous wave High Power Diode Laser (cw-HPDL). First, based on a qualitative evaluation of the welded joints, the most suitable operational windows for PETs laser joining were identified. Second, characterization of the mechanical properties of the welded joints was performed by tensile tests. Accordingly, Young's modulus of PET and biodegradable PET blends was studied by Takayanagi's model and, based on the experimental results, a novel predicting analytical model derived from the mixture rule was developed. Lastly, material degradation of the polymeric joints was evaluated by FT-IR analysis, thus allowing to identify the main routes to thermal degradation of PET and, especially, of biodegradable PET blends during laser processing.

Optical design and development of a fiber coupled high-power diode laser system for laser transmission welding of plastics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rodríguez-Vidal, Eva; Quintana, Iban; Etxarri, Jon; Azkorbebeitia, Urko; Otaduy, Deitze; González, Francisco; Moreno, Fernando

2012-12-01

Laser transmission welding (LTW) of thermoplastics is a direct bonding technique already used in different industrial applications sectors such as automobiles, microfluidics, electronics, and biomedicine. LTW evolves localized heating at the interface of two pieces of plastic to be joined. One of the plastic pieces needs to be optically transparent to the laser radiation whereas the other part has to be absorbent, being that the radiation produced by high power diode lasers is a good alternative for this process. As consequence, a tailored laser system has been designed and developed to obtain high quality weld seams with weld widths between 0.7 and 1.4 mm. The developed laser system consists of two diode laser bars (50 W per bar) coupled into an optical fiber using a nonimaging solution: equalization of the beam parameter product (BPP) in the slow and fast axes by a pair of step-mirrors. The power scaling was carried out by means of a multiplexing polarization technique. The analysis of energy balance and beam quality was performed considering ray tracing simulation (ZEMAX) and experimental validation. The welding experiments were conducted on acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene (ABS), a thermoplastic frequently used in automotive, electronics and aircraft applications, doped with two different concentrations of carbon nanotubes (0.01% and 0.05% CNTs). Quality of the weld seams on ABS was analyzed in terms of the process parameters (welding speed, laser power and clamping pressure) by visual and optical microscope inspections. Mechanical properties of weld seams were analyzed by mechanical shear tests. High quality weld seams were produced in ABS, revealing the potential of the laser developed in this work for a wide range of plastic welding applications.

Through-transmission laser welding of glass fibre composite: Experimental light scattering identification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cosson, Benoit; Asséko, André Chateau Akué; Dauphin, Myriam

2018-05-01

The purpose of this paper is to develop a cost-effective, efficient and quick to implement experimental optical method in order to predict the optical properties (extinction coefficient) of semi-transparent polymer composites. The extinction coefficient takes into account the effects due to the absorption and the scattering phenomena in a semi-transparent component during the laser processes, i.e. TTLW (through-transmission laser welding). The present method used a laser as light source and a reflex camera equipped with a macro lens as a measurement device and is based on the light transmission measurement through different thickness samples. The interaction between the incident laser beam and the semi-transparent composite is exanimated. The results are presented for the case of a semi-transparent composite reinforced with the unidirectional glass fiber (UD). A numerical method, ray tracing, is used to validate the experimental results. The ray tracing method is appropriate to characterize the light-scattering phenomenon in semi-transparent materials.

76 FR 59394 - Big Eddy-Knight Transmission Project

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-09-26

...: Bonneville Power Administration (BPA), Department of Energy (DOE). ACTION: Notice of Availability of Record... that BPA has received by increasing BPA's 500-kV transmission capability to move power from the east...-kilovolt (kV) transmission line and ancillary facilities between BPA's existing Big Eddy Substation in The...

Diode laser welding of polypropylene: investigations of the microstructures in the welded seam

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abed, S.; Laurens, Patricia; Carretero, C.; Deschamps, J. R.; Duval, C.

2003-03-01

Laser welding of thermoplastic polymers is a non-contact process especially efficient for joining thermoplastic polymers. This innovative technology is already used for industrial series production in different sectors (automobile, packaging,...). The majority of the basic research concerns the weld strength depending on polymer nature, optical properties, butt design and process parameters. Nevertheless, a lack of knowledge concerning the influence of thermal history of the weld seam on morphology of semicrystalline polymer still exists, when this parameter strongly influences the strength of the weld. Actual results of diode laser transmission welding (LTW) experiments on polypropylene, a semicrystalline polymer widely used in industry, could contribute to a better understanding of the process itself and to success in practical applications.

Environmental Assessment and Finding of No Significant Impact: Western's Hoover Dam Bypass Project Phase II (Double-Circuiting a Portion of the Hoover-Mead No.5 and No.7 230-kV Transmission Lines with the Henderson-Mead No.1 230-kV Transmission Line, Clark County, Nevada)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

N /A

2003-10-27

The U.S. Highway 93 (U.S. 93) Hoover Dam Bypass Project calls for the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Western Area Power Administration (Western) to remove its Arizona and Nevada (A&N) Switchyard. As a result of this action, Western must reconfigure its existing electrical transmission system in the Hoover Dam area. Western proposes to double-circuit a portion of the Hoover-Mead No.5 and No.7 230-kV Transmission Lines with the Henderson-Mead No.1 Transmission Line (see Figure 1-1). Double-circuiting is the placement of two separate electrical circuits, typically in the form of three separate conductors or bundles of conductors, on the same set ofmore » transmission line structures. The old Henderson-Hoover 230-kV Transmission Line would become the new Henderson-Mead No.1 and would extend approximately eight miles to connect with the Mead Substation. Western owns, operates, and maintains the Hoover-Mead No.5 and No.7, and Henderson-Hoover electrical power transmission lines. Additionally, approximately 0.25 miles of new right-of-way (ROW) would be needed for the Henderson-Mead No.1 when it transfers from double-circuiting with the Hoover-Mead No.7 to the Hoover-Mead No.5 at the Boulder City Tap. The proposed project would also involve a new transmission line ROW and structures where the Henderson-Mead No.1 will split from the Hoover-Mead No.5 and enter the northeast corner of the Mead Substation. Lastly, Western has proposed adding fiber optic overhead ground wire from the Hoover Power Plant to the Mead Substation on to the Henderson-Mead No.1, Hoover-Mead No.5 and No.7 Transmission Lines. The proposed project includes replacing existing transmission line tower structures, installing new structures, and adding new electrical conductors and fiber optic cables. As a consequence of these activities, ground disturbance may result from grading areas for structure placement, constructing new roads, improving existing roads for vehicle and equipment access, and from

Teaching "United States v. Windsor": The Defense of Marriage Act and Its Constitutional Implications

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ciocchetti, Corey

2014-01-01

This article represents background material that can be used e along with the "United States v. Windsor" case to teach Constitutional Law (particularly federalism, due process, and equal protection) and the legal debate surrounding same-sex marriage in America. Professors may assign it as background reading before or after a…

Evaluation of Training Samples Manually Welded With the Universal Handtool in a Space Simulation Chamber

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Russell, C. K.; Malone, T. W.; Cato, S. N.

2004-01-01

The international space welding experiment was designed to evaluate the universal handtool (UHT) functions as a welding, brazing, coating, and cutting tool for in-space operations. The UHT is an electron beam welding system developed by the Paton Welding Institute (PWI), Kiev, Ukraine, and operated a 8 kV with up to 1 kW of power. In preparation for conducting the space welding experiment, cosmonauts were trained to properly operate the UHT and correctly process samples. This Technical Memorandum presents the results of the destructive and nondestructive evaluation of the training samples made in Russia in 1998. It was concluded that acceptable welds can be made with the UHT despite the constraints imposed by a space suit. The lap joint fillet weld configuration was more suitable than the butt joint configuration for operators with limited welding experience. The tube braze joint configuration designed by the PWI was easily brazed in a repeatable manner.

Fracture overprinting history using Markov chain analysis: Windsor-Kennetcook subbasin, Maritimes Basin, Canada

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Snyder, Morgan E.; Waldron, John W. F.

2018-03-01

The deformation history of the Upper Paleozoic Maritimes Basin, Atlantic Canada, can be partially unraveled by examining fractures (joints, veins, and faults) that are well exposed on the shorelines of the macrotidal Bay of Fundy, in subsurface core, and on image logs. Data were collected from coastal outcrops and well core across the Windsor-Kennetcook subbasin, a subbasin in the Maritimes Basin, using the circular scan-line and vertical scan-line methods in outcrop, and FMI Image log analysis of core. We use cross-cutting and abutting relationships between fractures to understand relative timing of fracturing, followed by a statistical test (Markov chain analysis) to separate groups of fractures. This analysis, previously used in sedimentology, was modified to statistically test the randomness of fracture timing relationships. The results of the Markov chain analysis suggest that fracture initiation can be attributed to movement along the Minas Fault Zone, an E-W fault system that bounds the Windsor-Kennetcook subbasin to the north. Four sets of fractures are related to dextral strike slip along the Minas Fault Zone in the late Paleozoic, and four sets are related to sinistral reactivation of the same boundary in the Mesozoic.

Structure and phase composition of welded joints modified by different welding techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smirnov, Aleksander; Popova, Natalya; Nikonenko, Elena; Ozhiganov, Eugeniy; Ababkov, Nikolay; Koneva, Nina

2017-12-01

The paper presents the results of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) during the study of structure and phase composition of heat-affected zone (HAZ) of welded joints modified via four welding techniques, namely: electrode welding and electropercussive welding both with and without artificial flaws. The artificial flows represent aluminum pieces. TEM studies are carried out within the heat-affected zone, i.e. between the deposited and base metal, at 0.5 mm distance to the former. The 0.09C-2Mn-1Si-Fe steel type is used for welding. It is shown how the type of welding affects steel morphology, phase composition, defect structure and its parameters. The type of carbide phase is detected as well as the shape and location of particles. Volume fractions are estimated for the structural steel components, alongside with such parameters as the size of α-phase fragments, scalar and excess dislocation densities, and bending-torsion amplitude of the crystal lattice. Based on these results, we determine the welding technique and the structural component thus launching a mechanism of microcrack nucleation.

Differential Activation of Vascular Smooth Muscle Kv7.4, Kv7.5, and Kv7.4/7.5 Channels by ML213 and ICA-069673

PubMed Central

Brueggemann, Lyubov I.; Haick, Jennifer M.; Cribbs, Leanne L.

2014-01-01

Recent research suggests that smooth muscle cells express Kv7.4 and Kv7.5 voltage-activated potassium channels, which contribute to maintenance of their resting membrane voltage. New pharmacologic activators of Kv7 channels, ML213 (N-mesitybicyclo[2.2.1]heptane-2-carboxamide) and ICA-069673 N-(6-chloropyridin-3-yl)-3,4-difluorobenzamide), have been reported to discriminate among channels formed from different Kv7 subtypes. We compared the effects of ML213 and ICA-069673 on homomeric human Kv7.4, Kv7.5, and heteromeric Kv7.4/7.5 channels exogenously expressed in A7r5 vascular smooth muscle cells. We found that, despite its previous description as a selective activator of Kv7.2 and Kv7.4, ML213 significantly increased the maximum conductance of homomeric Kv7.4 and Kv7.5, as well as heteromeric Kv7.4/7.5 channels, and induced a negative shift of their activation curves. Current deactivation rates decreased in the presence of the ML213 (10 μM) for all three channel combinations. Mutants of Kv7.4 (W242L) and Kv7.5 (W235L), previously found to be insensitive to another Kv7 channel activator, retigabine, were also insensitive to ML213 (10 μM). In contrast to ML213, ICA-069673 robustly activated Kv7.4 channels but was significantly less effective on homomeric Kv7.5 channels. Heteromeric Kv7.4/7.5 channels displayed intermediate responses to ICA-069673. In each case, ICA-069673 induced a negative shift of the activation curves without significantly increasing maximal conductance. Current deactivation rates decreased in the presence of ICA-069673 in a subunit-specific manner. Kv7.4 W242L responded to ICA-069673-like wild-type Kv7.4, but a Kv7.4 F143A mutant was much less sensitive to ICA-069673. Based on these results, ML213 and ICA-069673 likely bind to different sites and are differentially selective among Kv7.4, Kv7.5, and Kv7.4/7.5 channel subtypes. PMID:24944189

Optical-Fiber-Welding Machine

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goss, W. C.; Mann, W. A.; Goldstein, R.

1985-01-01

Technique yields joints with average transmissivity of 91.6 percent. Electric arc passed over butted fiber ends to melt them together. Maximum optical transmissivity of joint achieved with optimum choice of discharge current, translation speed, and axial compression of fibers. Practical welding machine enables delicate and tedious joining operation performed routinely.

Chinese Graduate Students and the Canadian Academic Library: A User Study at the University of Windsor

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Liu, Guoying; Winn, Danielle

2009-01-01

This paper presents a pilot study that examined the information seeking behaviors of Chinese graduate students at the University of Windsor. Findings on current Chinese students' perceptions, expectations, and use of library services are highlighted including implications for academic libraries to meet international students' information needs.

Open channel block of A-type, kv4.3, and delayed rectifier K+ channels, Kv1.3 and Kv3.1, by sibutramine.

PubMed

Kim, Sung Eun; Ahn, Hye Sook; Choi, Bok Hee; Jang, Hyun-Jong; Kim, Myung-Jun; Rhie, Duck-Joo; Yoon, Shin-Hee; Jo, Yang-Hyeok; Kim, Myung-Suk; Sung, Ki-Wug; Hahn, Sang June

2007-05-01

The effects of sibutramine on voltage-gated K+ channel (Kv)4.3, Kv1.3, and Kv3.1, stably expressed in Chinese hamster ovary cells, were investigated using the whole-cell patch-clamp technique. Sibutramine did not significantly decrease the peak Kv4.3 currents, but it accelerated the rate of decay of current inactivation in a concentration-dependent manner. This phenomenon was effectively characterized by integrating the total current over the duration of a depolarizing pulse to +40 mV. The IC50 value for the sibutramine block of Kv4.3 was 17.3 microM. Under control conditions, the inactivation of Kv4.3 currents could be fit to a biexponential function, and the time constants for the fast and slow components were significantly decreased after the application of sibutramine. The association (k+1) and dissociation (k-1) rate constants for the sibutramine block of Kv 4.3 were 1.51 microM-1s-1 and 27.35 s-1, respectively. The theoretical KD value, derived from k-1/k+1, yielded a value of 18.11 microM. The block of Kv4.3 by sibutramine displayed a weak voltage dependence, increasing at more positive potentials, and it was use-dependent at 2 Hz. Sibutramine did not affect the time course for the deactivating tail currents. Neither steady-state activation and inactivation nor the recovery from inactivation was affected by sibutramine. Sibutramine caused the concentration-dependent block of the Kv1.3 and Kv3.1 currents with an IC50 value of 3.7 and 32.7 microM, respectively. In addition, sibutramine reduced the tail current amplitude and slowed the deactivation of the tail currents of Kv1.3 and Kv3.1, resulting in a crossover phenomenon. These results indicate that sibutramine acts on Kv4.3, Kv1.3, and Kv3.1 as an open channel blocker.

Announcement of ruling: implementing United States v.Windsor for purposes of entitlement and enrollment in Medicare hospital insurance and supplementary medical insurance. Notice of CMS ruling.

PubMed

2015-02-13

This document announces a CMS Ruling that states the CMS policies for implementing United States v. Windsor ("Windsor''), in which the Supreme Court held that section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), enacted in 1996, is unconstitutional. Section 3 of DOMA defined ``marriage'' and "spouse'' as excluding same-sex marriages and same-sex spouses, and effectively precluded the Federal government from recognizing same-sex marriages and spouses.

Functional assembly of Kv7.1/Kv7.5 channels with emerging properties on vascular muscle physiology.

PubMed

Oliveras, Anna; Roura-Ferrer, Meritxell; Solé, Laura; de la Cruz, Alicia; Prieto, Angela; Etxebarria, Ainhoa; Manils, Joan; Morales-Cano, Daniel; Condom, Enric; Soler, Concepció; Cogolludo, Angel; Valenzuela, Carmen; Villarroel, Alvaro; Comes, Núria; Felipe, Antonio

2014-07-01

Voltage-dependent K(+) (Kv) channels from the Kv7 family are expressed in blood vessels and contribute to cardiovascular physiology. Although Kv7 channel blockers trigger muscle contractions, Kv7 activators act as vasorelaxants. Kv7.1 and Kv7.5 are expressed in many vessels. Kv7.1 is under intense investigation because Kv7.1 blockers fail to modulate smooth muscle reactivity. In this study, we analyzed whether Kv7.1 and Kv7.5 may form functional heterotetrameric channels increasing the channel diversity in vascular smooth muscles. Kv7.1 and Kv7.5 currents elicited in arterial myocytes, oocyte, and mammalian expression systems suggest the formation of heterotetrameric complexes. Kv7.1/Kv7.5 heteromers, exhibiting different pharmacological characteristics, participate in the arterial tone. Kv7.1/Kv7.5 associations were confirmed by coimmunoprecipitation, fluorescence resonance energy transfer, and fluorescence recovery after photobleaching experiments. Kv7.1/Kv7.5 heterotetramers were highly retained at the endoplasmic reticulum. Studies in HEK-293 cells, heart, brain, and smooth and skeletal muscles demonstrated that the predominant presence of Kv7.5 stimulates release of Kv7.1/Kv7.5 oligomers out of lipid raft microdomains. Electrophysiological studies supported that KCNE1 and KCNE3 regulatory subunits further increased the channel diversity. Finally, the analysis of rat isolated myocytes and human blood vessels demonstrated that Kv7.1 and Kv7.5 exhibited a differential expression, which may lead to channel diversity. Kv7.1 and Kv7.5 form heterotetrameric channels increasing the diversity of structures which fine-tune blood vessel reactivity. Because the lipid raft localization of ion channels is crucial for cardiovascular physiology, Kv7.1/Kv7.5 heteromers provide efficient spatial and temporal regulation of smooth muscle function. Our results shed light on the debate about the contribution of Kv7 channels to vasoconstriction and hypertension. © 2014 American

Supplement Analysis for the Transmission System Vegetation Management Program FEIS (DOE/EIS-0285/SA-108), Satsop-Aberdeen #2

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Tippetts, Greg P.

2002-09-05

Vegetation Management along the Satsop-Aberdeen #2 230kV transmission line corridor from structure 1/1 through structure 11/5. BPA proposes to remove unwanted vegetation along the right-of- way, access roads and around tower structures along the subject transmission line corridors. Approximately 11 miles of right-of-way will be treated using selective and non-selective methods that include hand cutting, mowing and herbicide treatments. Approximately 0.8 miles of access roads will be cleared using selective and non-selective methods that include hand cutting, mowing and herbicide treatments. Tower sites will be treated using selective and non-selective methods that include hand cutting, mowing and herbicide treatments. Vegetationmore » management is required for unimpeded operation and maintenance of the subject transmission line. See Section 1of the attached checklist for a complete description of the proposal.« less

Seasonal Patterns of Melatonin, Cortisol, and Progesterone Secretion in Female Lambs Raised Beneath a 500-kV Transmission Line.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lee, Jack M.

Although several kinds of biological effects of electric and magnetic fields have been reported from laboratory studies, few have been independently replicated. When this study was being planned, the suppression of nighttime melatonin in rodents was thought to represent one of the strongest known effects of these fields. The effect had been replicated by a single laboratory for 60-Hz electric fields, and by multiple laboratories for d-c magnetic fields. The primary objective of this study was to determine whether the effect of electric and magnetic fields on melatonin would also occur in sheep exposed to a high voltage transmission line.more » The specific hypothesis tested by this experiment was as follows: The electrical environment produced by a 60-Hz, 500-kV transmission line causes a depression in nocturnal melatonin in chronically exposed female lambs. This may mimic effects of pinealectomy or constant long-day photoperiods, thus delaying the onset of reproductive cycles. Results of the study do not provide evidence to support the hypothesis. Melatonin concentrations in the sheep exposed to the transmission line showed the normal pattern of low daytime and high nighttime serum levels. As compared to the control group, there were no statistically significant group differences in the mean amplitude, phase, or duration of the nighttime melatonin elevation.« less

76 FR 67181 - Windsor Machinery Co., Inc.; Notice of Preliminary Permit Application Accepted for Filing and...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-10-31

... Machinery Co., Inc.; Notice of Preliminary Permit Application Accepted for Filing and Soliciting Comments, Motions To Intervene, and Competing Applications On August 15, 2011, Windsor Machinery Co., Inc. filed an application for a preliminary permit, pursuant to section 4(f) of the Federal Power Act (FPA), proposing to...

Experimental investigation on the weld pool formation process in plasma keyhole arc welding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Van Anh, Nguyen; Tashiro, Shinichi; Van Hanh, Bui; Tanaka, Manabu

2018-01-01

This paper seeks to clarify the weld pool formation process in plasma keyhole arc welding (PKAW). We adopted, for the first time, the measurement of the 3D convection inside the weld pool in PKAW by stereo synchronous imaging of tungsten tracer particles using two sets of x-ray transmission systems. The 2D convection on the weld pool surface was also measured using zirconia tracer particles. Through these measurements, the convection in a wide range of weld pools from the vicinity of the keyhole to the rear region was successfully visualized. In order to discuss the heat transport process in a weld pool, the 2D temperature distribution on the weld pool surface was also measured by two-color pyrometry. The results of the comprehensive experimental measurement indicate that the shear force due to plasma flow is found to be the dominant driving force in the weld pool formation process in PKAW. Thus, heat transport in a weld pool is considered to be governed by two large convective patterns near the keyhole: (1) eddy pairs on the surface (perpendicular to the torch axis), and (2) eddy pairs on the bulk of the weld pool (on the plane of the torch). They are formed with an equal velocity of approximately 0.35 m s-1 and are mainly driven by shear force. Furthermore, the flow velocity of the weld pool convection becomes considerably higher than that of other welding processes, such as TIG welding and GMA welding, due to larger plasma flow velocity.

Change Agent Research: Phase I-Organizational Audit and Communication Feedback Applied to Windsor Minor Lacrosse.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Moriarty, Dick; Jones, Patti

This study reports the results of a pilot Change Agent Research (CAR) project initiated in the summer of 1975 by the Sports Institute for Research (SIR) for the Windsor Minor Lacrosse Association. The purpose of the project was to audit the association to diagnose the nature of its organizational problems and assist in initiating change in order…

Laser transmission welding of Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene (ABS) using a tailored high power diode-laser optical fiber coupled system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rodríguez-Vidal, E.; Quintana, I.; Etxarri, J.; Otaduy, D.; González, F.; Moreno, F.

2012-06-01

Laser transmission welding (LTW) of polymers is a direct bonding technique which is already used in different industrial applications sectors such as automobile, microfluidic, electronic and biomedicine. This technique offers several advantages over conventional methods, especially when a local deposition of energy and minimum thermal distortions are required. In LTW one of the polymeric materials needs to be transparent to the laser wavelength and the second part needs to be designed to be absorbed in IR spectrum. This report presents a study of laser weldability of ABS (acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene) filled with two different concentrations of carbon nanotubes (0.01% and 0.05% CNTs). These additives are used as infrared absorbing components in the laser welding process, affecting the thermal and optical properties of the material and, hence, the final quality of the weld seam. A tailored laser system has been designed to obtain high quality weld seams with widths between 0.4 and 1.0mm. It consists of two diode laser bars (50W per bar) coupled into an optical fiber using a non-imaging solution: equalization of the beam quality factor (M2) in the slow and fast axes by a pair of micro step-mirrors. The beam quality factor has been analyzed at different laser powers with the aim to guarantee a coupling efficiency to the multimode optical fiber. The power scaling is carried out by means of multiplexing polarization technique. The analysis of energy balance and beam quality is performed in two linked steps: first by means ray tracing simulations (ZEMAX®) and second, by validation. Quality of the weld seams is analyzed in terms of the process parameters (welding speed, laser power and clamping pressure) by visual and optical microscope inspections. The optimum laser power range for three different welding speeds is determinate meanwhile the clamping pressure is held constant. Additionally, the corresponding mechanical shear tests were carried out to analyze the

77 FR 23114 - Modification, Revocation and Establishment of Air Traffic Service Routes; Windsor Locks Area; CT

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-04-18

... Traffic Service Routes; Windsor Locks Area; CT AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION... coordinate for one point in the description of area navigation (RNAV) route T-300. DATES: Effective date 0901... action under 1 CFR part 51, subject to the annual revision of FAA Order 7400.9 and publication of...

Online process monitoring at quasi-simultaneous laser transmission welding using a 3D-scanner with integrated pyrometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schmailzl, A.; Steger, S.; Dostalek, M.; Hierl, S.

2016-03-01

Quasi-simultaneous laser transmission welding is a well-known joining technique for thermoplastics and mainly used in the automotive as well as in the medical industry. For process control usually the so called set-path monitoring is used, where the weld is specified as "good" if the irradiation time is inside a defined confidence interval. However, the detection of small-sized gaps or thermal damaged zones is not possible with this technique. The analyzation of the weld seam temperature during welding offers the possibility to overcome this problem. In this approach a 3D-scanner is used instead of a scanner with flat-field optic. By using a pyrometer in combination with a 3D-scanner no color-corrected optic is needed in order to provide that laser- and detection-spot are concentric. Experimental studies on polyethylene T-joints have shown that the quality of the signal is adequate, despite the use of an optical setup with a long working distance and a small optical aperture. The effects on temperature are studied for defects like a gap in the joining zone. Therefore a notch was milled into the absorbent polymer. In case of producing housings for electronic parts the effect of an electrical wire between the joining partners is also investigated. Both defects can be identified by a local temperature deviation even at a feed rate of four meters per second. Furthermore a strategy for signal-processing is demonstrated. By this, remaining defects can be identified. Consequently an online detection of local defects is possible, which makes a dynamic process control feasible.

49 CFR 192.719 - Transmission lines: Testing of repairs.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... pipe before it is installed. (b) Testing of repairs made by welding. Each repair made by welding in... 49 Transportation 3 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Transmission lines: Testing of repairs. 192.719... Transmission lines: Testing of repairs. (a) Testing of replacement pipe. If a segment of transmission line is...

Parametric studies on tensile strength in joining AA6061- T6 and AA7075-T6 by gas metal arc welding process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ishak, M.; Noordin, N. F. M.; Shah, L. H.

2015-12-01

Proper selection of the welding parameters can result in better joining. In this study, the effects of various welding parameters on tensile strength in joining dissimilar aluminum alloys AA6061-T6 and AA7075-T6 were investigated. 2 mm thick samples of both base metals were welded by semi-automatic gas metal arc welding (GMAW) using filler wire ER5356. The welding current, arc voltage and welding speed were chosen as variables parameters. The strength of each specimen after the welding operations were tested and the effects of these parameters on tensile strength were identified by using Taguchi method. The range of parameter for welding current were chosen from 100 to 115 A, arc voltage from 17 to 20 V and welding speed from 2 to 5 mm/s. L16 orthogonal array was used to obtained 16 runs of experiments. It was found that the highest tensile strength (194.34 MPa) was obtained with the combination of a welding current of 115 A, welding voltage of 18 V and welding speed of 4 mm/s. Through analysis of variance (ANOVA), the welding voltage was the most effected parameter on tensile strength with percentage of contribution at 41.30%.

SRF test facility for the superconducting LINAC ``RAON'' — RRR property and e-beam welding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jung, Yoochul; Hyun, Myungook; Joo, Jongdae; Joung, Mijoung

2015-02-01

Equipment, such as a vacuum furnace, high pressure rinse (HPR), eddy current test (ECT) and buffered chemical polishing (BCP), are installed in the superconducting radio frequency (SRF) test facility. Three different sizes of cryostats (diameters of 600 mm for a quarter wave resonator (QWR), 900 mm for a half wave resonator (HWR), and 1200 mm for single spoke resonator 1&2 (SSR 1&2)) for vertical RF tests are installed for testing cavities. We confirmed that as-received niobium sheets (ASTM B393, RRR300) good electrical properties because they showed average residual resistance ratio (RRR) values higher than 300. However, serious RRR degradation occurred after joining two pieces of Nb by e-beam welding because the average RRR values of the samples were ˜179, which was only ˜60% of as-received RRR value. From various e-beam welding experiments in which the welding current and a speed at a fixed welding voltage were changed, we confirmed that good welding results were obtained at a 53 mA welding current and a 20-mm/s welding speed at a fixed welding voltage of 150 kV.

Geospatial relationships of air pollution and acute asthma events across the Detroit-Windsor international border: study design and preliminary results.

PubMed

Lemke, Lawrence D; Lamerato, Lois E; Xu, Xiaohong; Booza, Jason C; Reiners, John J; Raymond Iii, Delbert M; Villeneuve, Paul J; Lavigne, Eric; Larkin, Dana; Krouse, Helene J

2014-07-01

The Geospatial Determinants of Health Outcomes Consortium (GeoDHOC) study investigated ambient air quality across the international border between Detroit, Michigan, USA and Windsor, Ontario, Canada and its association with acute asthma events in 5- to 89-year-old residents of these cities. NO2, SO2, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were measured at 100 sites, and particulate matter (PM) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) at 50 sites during two 2-week sampling periods in 2008 and 2009. Acute asthma event rates across neighborhoods in each city were calculated using emergency room visits and hospitalizations and standardized to the overall age and gender distribution of the population in the two cities combined. Results demonstrate that intra-urban air quality variations are related to adverse respiratory events in both cities. Annual 2008 asthma rates exhibited statistically significant positive correlations with total VOCs and total benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylene (BTEX) at 5-digit zip code scale spatial resolution in Detroit. In Windsor, NO2, VOCs, and PM10 concentrations correlated positively with 2008 asthma rates at a similar 3-digit postal forward sortation area scale. The study is limited by its coarse temporal resolution (comparing relatively short term air quality measurements to annual asthma health data) and interpretation of findings is complicated by contrasts in population demographics and health-care delivery systems in Detroit and Windsor.

Effect of tyrphostin AG879 on Kv4.2 and Kv4.3 potassium channels

PubMed Central

Yu, Haibo; Zou, Beiyan; Wang, Xiaoliang; Li, Min

2015-01-01

Background and Purpose A-type potassium channels (IA) are important proteins for modulating neuronal membrane excitability. The expression and activity of Kv4.2 channels are critical for neurological functions and pharmacological inhibitors of Kv4.2 channels may have therapeutic potential for Fragile X syndrome. While screening various compounds, we identified tyrphostin AG879, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, as a Kv4.2 inhibitor from. In the present study we characterized the effect of AG879 on cloned Kv4.2/Kv channel-interacting protein 2 (KChIP2) channels. Experimental Approach To screen the library of pharmacologically active compounds, the thallium flux assay was performed on HEK-293 cells transiently-transfected with Kv4.2 cDNA using the Maxcyte transfection system. The effects of AG879 were further examined on CHO-K1 cells expressing Kv4.2/KChIP2 channels using a whole-cell patch-clamp technique. Key Results Tyrphostin AG879 selectively and dose-dependently inhibited Kv4.2 and Kv4.3 channels. In Kv4.2/KChIP2 channels, AG879 induced prominent acceleration of the inactivation rate, use-dependent block and slowed the recovery from inactivation. AG879 induced a hyperpolarizing shift in the voltage-dependence of the steady-state inactivation of Kv4.2 channels without apparent effect on the V1/2 of the voltage-dependent activation. The blocking effect of AG879 was enhanced as channel inactivation increased. Furthermore, AG879 significantly inhibited the A-type potassium currents in the cultured hippocampus neurons. Conclusion and Implications AG879 was identified as a selective and potent inhibitor the Kv4.2 channel. AG879 inhibited Kv4.2 channels by preferentially interacting with the open state and further accelerating their inactivation. PMID:25752739

Effect of tyrphostin AG879 on Kv 4.2 and Kv 4.3 potassium channels.

PubMed

Yu, Haibo; Zou, Beiyan; Wang, Xiaoliang; Li, Min

2015-07-01

A-type potassium channels (IA) are important proteins for modulating neuronal membrane excitability. The expression and activity of Kv 4.2 channels are critical for neurological functions and pharmacological inhibitors of Kv 4.2 channels may have therapeutic potential for Fragile X syndrome. While screening various compounds, we identified tyrphostin AG879, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, as a Kv 4.2 inhibitor from. In the present study we characterized the effect of AG879 on cloned Kv 4.2/Kv channel-interacting protein 2 (KChIP2) channels. To screen the library of pharmacologically active compounds, the thallium flux assay was performed on HEK-293 cells transiently-transfected with Kv 4.2 cDNA using the Maxcyte transfection system. The effects of AG879 were further examined on CHO-K1 cells expressing Kv 4.2/KChIP2 channels using a whole-cell patch-clamp technique. Tyrphostin AG879 selectively and dose-dependently inhibited Kv 4.2 and Kv 4.3 channels. In Kv 4.2/KChIP2 channels, AG879 induced prominent acceleration of the inactivation rate, use-dependent block and slowed the recovery from inactivation. AG879 induced a hyperpolarizing shift in the voltage-dependence of the steady-state inactivation of Kv 4.2 channels without apparent effect on the V1/2 of the voltage-dependent activation. The blocking effect of AG879 was enhanced as channel inactivation increased. Furthermore, AG879 significantly inhibited the A-type potassium currents in the cultured hippocampus neurons. AG879 was identified as a selective and potent inhibitor the Kv 4.2 channel. AG879 inhibited Kv 4.2 channels by preferentially interacting with the open state and further accelerating their inactivation. © 2015 The British Pharmacological Society.

The Kv7.2/Kv7.3 heterotetramer assembles with a random subunit arrangement.

PubMed

Stewart, Andrew P; Gómez-Posada, Juan Camilo; McGeorge, Jessica; Rouhani, Maral J; Villarroel, Alvaro; Murrell-Lagnado, Ruth D; Edwardson, J Michael

2012-04-06

Voltage-gated K(+) channels composed of Kv7.2 and Kv7.3 are the predominant contributors to the M-current, which plays a key role in controlling neuronal activity. Various lines of evidence have indicated that Kv7.2 and Kv7.3 form a heteromeric channel. However, the subunit stoichiometry and arrangement within this putative heteromer are so far unknown. Here, we have addressed this question using atomic force microscopy imaging of complexes between isolated Kv7.2/Kv7.3 channels and antibodies to epitope tags on the two subunits, Myc on Kv7.2 and HA on Kv7.3. Initially, tsA 201 cells were transiently transfected with equal amounts of cDNA for the two subunits. The heteromer was isolated through binding of either tag to immunoaffinity beads and then decorated with antibodies to the other tag. In both cases, the distribution of angles between pairs of bound antibodies had two peaks, at around 90° and around 180°, and in both cases the 90° peak was about double the size of the 180° peak. These results indicate that the Kv7.2/Kv7.3 heteromer generated by cells expressing approximately equal amounts of the two subunits assembles as a tetramer with a predominantly 2:2 subunit stoichiometry and with a random subunit arrangement. When the DNA ratio for the two subunits was varied, copurification experiments indicated that the subunit stoichiometry was variable and not fixed at 2:2. Hence, there are no constraints on either the subunit stoichiometry or the subunit arrangement.

Proposed Columbia Wind Farm No. 1 : Final Environmental Impact Statement, Joint NEPA/SEPA.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

United States. Bonneville Power Administration; Klickitat County

1995-09-01

CARES proposes to construct and operate the 25 megawatt Columbia Wind Farm No. 1 (Project) in the Columbia Hills area of Klickitat County, Washington known as Juniper Point. Wind is not a constant resource and based on the site wind measurement data, it is estimated that the Project would generate approximately 7 average annual MWs of electricity. BPA proposes to purchase the electricity generated by the Project. CARES would execute a contractual agreement with a wind developer, to install approximately 91 wind turbines and associated facilities to generate electricity. The Project`s construction and operation would include: install concrete pier foundationsmore » for each wind turbine; install 91 model AWT-26 wind turbines using 43 m high guyed tubular towers on the pier foundations; construct a new 115/24-kv substation; construct a 149 m{sup 2} steel operations and maintenance building; install 25 pad mount transformers along the turbine access roads; install 4.0 km of underground 24 kv power collection lines to collect power from individual turbines to the end of turbine strings; install 1.2 km of underground communication and transmission lines from each turbine to a pad mount transformer; install 5.6 km of 24 kv wood pole transmission lines to deliver electricity from the pad mount transformers to the Project substation; install 3.2 km of 115 kv wood pole transmission lines to deliver electricity from the Project substation to the Public Utility District No. 1 of Klickitat County(PUD)115 kv Goldendale line; interconnect with the BPA transmission system through the Goldendale line and Goldendale substation owned by the PUD; reconstruct, upgrade, and maintain 8.0 km of existing roads; construct and maintain 6.4 km of new graveled roads along the turbine strings and to individual turbines; and install meteorological towers guyed with rebar anchors on the Project site.« less

KV1 and KV3 Potassium Channels Identified at Presynaptic Terminals of the Corticostriatal Synapses in Rat

PubMed Central

Meneses, David; Vega, Ana V.; Torres-Cruz, Francisco Miguel; Barral, Jaime

2016-01-01

In the last years it has been increasingly clear that KV-channel activity modulates neurotransmitter release. The subcellular localization and composition of potassium channels are crucial to understanding its influence on neurotransmitter release. To investigate the role of KV in corticostriatal synapses modulation, we combined extracellular recording of population-spike and pharmacological blockage with specific and nonspecific blockers to identify several families of KV channels. We induced paired-pulse facilitation (PPF) and studied the changes in paired-pulse ratio (PPR) before and after the addition of specific KV blockers to determine whether particular KV subtypes were located pre- or postsynaptically. Initially, the presence of KV channels was tested by exposing brain slices to tetraethylammonium or 4-aminopyridine; in both cases we observed a decrease in PPR that was dose dependent. Further experiments with tityustoxin, margatoxin, hongotoxin, agitoxin, dendrotoxin, and BDS-I toxins all rendered a reduction in PPR. In contrast heteropodatoxin and phrixotoxin had no effect. Our results reveal that corticostriatal presynaptic KV channels have a complex stoichiometry, including heterologous combinations KV1.1, KV1.2, KV1.3, and KV1.6 isoforms, as well as KV3.4, but not KV4 channels. The variety of KV channels offers a wide spectrum of possibilities to regulate neurotransmitter release, providing fine-tuning mechanisms to modulate synaptic strength. PMID:27379187

Cold welding of ultrathin gold nanowires.

PubMed

Lu, Yang; Huang, Jian Yu; Wang, Chao; Sun, Shouheng; Lou, Jun

2010-03-01

The welding of metals at the nanoscale is likely to have an important role in the bottom-up fabrication of electrical and mechanical nanodevices. Existing welding techniques use local heating, requiring precise control of the heating mechanism and introducing the possibility of damage. The welding of metals without heating (or cold welding) has been demonstrated, but only at macroscopic length scales and under large applied pressures. Here, we demonstrate that single-crystalline gold nanowires with diameters between 3 and 10 nm can be cold-welded together within seconds by mechanical contact alone, and under relatively low applied pressures. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy and in situ measurements reveal that the welds are nearly perfect, with the same crystal orientation, strength and electrical conductivity as the rest of the nanowire. The high quality of the welds is attributed to the nanoscale sample dimensions, oriented-attachment mechanisms and mechanically assisted fast surface-atom diffusion. Welds are also demonstrated between gold and silver, and silver and silver, indicating that the technique may be generally applicable.

76 FR 77432 - Coordination of Federal Authorizations for Electric Transmission Facilities

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-12-13

... as ``high voltage transmission line projects (generally 230 kV or above), and their attendant... Qualifying Projects are generally 230 kV or above and cross jurisdictions administered by more than one... project is: (1) Equal or greater than 230 kV; (2) reasonably likely to require an EIS; or (3) reasonably...

The epilepsy-linked Lgi1 protein assembles into presynaptic Kv1 channels and inhibits inactivation by Kvbeta1.

PubMed

Schulte, Uwe; Thumfart, Jörg-Oliver; Klöcker, Nikolaj; Sailer, Claudia A; Bildl, Wolfgang; Biniossek, Martin; Dehn, Doris; Deller, Thomas; Eble, Silke; Abbass, Karen; Wangler, Tanja; Knaus, Hans-Günther; Fakler, Bernd

2006-03-02

The voltage-gated potassium (Kv) channel subunit Kv1.1 is a major constituent of presynaptic A-type channels that modulate synaptic transmission in CNS neurons. Here, we show that Kv1.1-containing channels are complexed with Lgi1, the functionally unassigned product of the leucine-rich glioma inactivated gene 1 (LGI1), which is causative for an autosomal dominant form of lateral temporal lobe epilepsy (ADLTE). In the hippocampal formation, both Kv1.1 and Lgi1 are coassembled with Kv1.4 and Kvbeta1 in axonal terminals. In A-type channels composed of these subunits, Lgi1 selectively prevents N-type inactivation mediated by the Kvbeta1 subunit. In contrast, defective Lgi1 molecules identified in ADLTE patients fail to exert this effect resulting in channels with rapid inactivation kinetics. The results establish Lgi1 as a novel subunit of Kv1.1-associated protein complexes and suggest that changes in inactivation gating of presynaptic A-type channels may promote epileptic activity.

Kv1 channels and neural processing in vestibular calyx afferents.

PubMed

Meredith, Frances L; Kirk, Matthew E; Rennie, Katherine J

2015-01-01

Potassium-selective ion channels are important for accurate transmission of signals from auditory and vestibular sensory end organs to their targets in the central nervous system. During different gravity conditions, astronauts experience altered input signals from the peripheral vestibular system resulting in sensorimotor dysfunction. Adaptation to altered sensory input occurs, but it is not explicitly known whether this involves synaptic modifications within the vestibular epithelia. Future investigations of such potential plasticity require a better understanding of the electrophysiological mechanisms underlying the known heterogeneity of afferent discharge under normal conditions. This study advances this understanding by examining the role of the Kv1 potassium channel family in mediating action potentials in specialized vestibular afferent calyx endings in the gerbil crista and utricle. Pharmacological agents selective for different sub-types of Kv1 channels were tested on membrane responses in whole cell recordings in the crista. Kv1 channels sensitive to α-dendrotoxin and dendrotoxin-K were found to prevail in the central regions, whereas K(+) channels sensitive to margatoxin, which blocks Kv1.3 and 1.6 channels, were more prominent in peripheral regions. Margatoxin-sensitive currents showed voltage-dependent inactivation. Dendrotoxin-sensitive currents showed no inactivation and dampened excitability in calyces in central neuroepithelial regions. The differential distribution of Kv1 potassium channels in vestibular afferents supports their importance in accurately relaying gravitational and head movement signals through specialized lines to the central nervous system. Pharmacological modulation of specific groups of K(+) channels could help alleviate vestibular dysfunction on earth and in space.

Kv1.1 knock-in ataxic mice exhibit spontaneous myokymic activity exacerbated by fatigue, ischemia and low temperature.

PubMed

Brunetti, Orazio; Imbrici, Paola; Botti, Fabio Massimo; Pettorossi, Vito Enrico; D'Adamo, Maria Cristina; Valentino, Mario; Zammit, Christian; Mora, Marina; Gibertini, Sara; Di Giovanni, Giuseppe; Muscat, Richard; Pessia, Mauro

2012-09-01

Episodic ataxia type 1 (EA1) is an autosomal dominant neurological disorder characterized by myokymia and attacks of ataxic gait often precipitated by stress. Several genetic mutations have been identified in the Shaker-like K(+) channel Kv1.1 (KCNA1) of EA1 individuals, including V408A, which result in remarkable channel dysfunction. By inserting the heterozygous V408A, mutation in one Kv1.1 allele, a mouse model of EA1 has been generated (Kv1.1(V408A/+)). Here, we investigated the neuromuscular transmission of Kv1.1(V408A/+) ataxic mice and their susceptibility to physiologically relevant stressors. By using in vivo preparations of lateral gastrocnemius (LG) nerve-muscle from Kv1.1(+/+) and Kv1.1(V408A/+) mice, we show that the mutant animals exhibit spontaneous myokymic discharges consisting of repeated singlets, duplets or multiplets, despite motor nerve axotomy. Two-photon laser scanning microscopy from the motor nerve, ex vivo, revealed spontaneous Ca(2+) signals that occurred abnormally only in preparations dissected from Kv1.1(V408A/+) mice. Spontaneous bursting activity, as well as that evoked by sciatic nerve stimulation, was exacerbated by muscle fatigue, ischemia and low temperatures. These stressors also increased the amplitude of compound muscle action potential. Such abnormal neuromuscular transmission did not alter fiber type composition, neuromuscular junction and vascularization of LG muscle, analyzed by light and electron microscopy. Taken together these findings provide direct evidence that identifies the motor nerve as an important generator of myokymic activity, that dysfunction of Kv1.1 channels alters Ca(2+) homeostasis in motor axons, and also strongly suggest that muscle fatigue contributes more than PNS fatigue to exacerbate the myokymia/neuromyotonia phenotype. More broadly, this study points out that juxtaparanodal K(+) channels composed of Kv1.1 subunits exert an important role in dampening the excitability of motor nerve axons during

Kv1.1 knock-in ataxic mice exhibit spontaneous myokymic activity exacerbated by fatigue, ischemia and low temperature

PubMed Central

Brunetti, Orazio; Imbrici, Paola; Botti, Fabio Massimo; Pettorossi, Vito Enrico; D'Adamo, Maria Cristina; Valentino, Mario; Zammit, Christian; Mora, Marina; Gibertini, Sara; Di Giovanni, Giuseppe; Muscat, Richard; Pessia, Mauro

2012-01-01

Episodic ataxia type 1 (EA1) is an autosomal dominant neurological disorder characterized by myokymia and attacks of ataxic gait often precipitated by stress. Several genetic mutations have been identified in the Shaker-like K+ channel Kv1.1 (KCNA1) of EA1 individuals, including V408A, which result in remarkable channel dysfunction. By inserting the heterozygous V408A, mutation in one Kv1.1 allele, a mouse model of EA1 has been generated (Kv1.1V408A/+). Here, we investigated the neuromuscular transmission of Kv1.1V408A/+ ataxic mice and their susceptibility to physiologically relevant stressors. By using in vivo preparations of lateral gastrocnemius (LG) nerve–muscle from Kv1.1+/+ and Kv1.1V408A/+ mice, we show that the mutant animals exhibit spontaneous myokymic discharges consisting of repeated singlets, duplets or multiplets, despite motor nerve axotomy. Two-photon laser scanning microscopy from the motor nerve, ex vivo, revealed spontaneous Ca2 + signals that occurred abnormally only in preparations dissected from Kv1.1V408A/+ mice. Spontaneous bursting activity, as well as that evoked by sciatic nerve stimulation, was exacerbated by muscle fatigue, ischemia and low temperatures. These stressors also increased the amplitude of compound muscle action potential. Such abnormal neuromuscular transmission did not alter fiber type composition, neuromuscular junction and vascularization of LG muscle, analyzed by light and electron microscopy. Taken together these findings provide direct evidence that identifies the motor nerve as an important generator of myokymic activity, that dysfunction of Kv1.1 channels alters Ca2 + homeostasis in motor axons, and also strongly suggest that muscle fatigue contributes more than PNS fatigue to exacerbate the myokymia/neuromyotonia phenotype. More broadly, this study points out that juxtaparanodal K+ channels composed of Kv1.1 subunits exert an important role in dampening the excitability of motor nerve axons during fatigue or

Regulation of Kv7.2/Kv7.3 channels by cholesterol: Relevance of an optimum plasma membrane cholesterol content.

PubMed

Delgado-Ramírez, Mayra; Sánchez-Armass, Sergio; Meza, Ulises; Rodríguez-Menchaca, Aldo A

2018-05-01

Kv7.2/Kv7.3 channels are the molecular correlate of the M-current, which stabilizes the membrane potential and controls neuronal excitability. Previous studies have shown the relevance of plasma membrane lipids on both M-currents and Kv7.2/Kv7.3 channels. Here, we report the sensitive modulation of Kv7.2/Kv7.3 channels by membrane cholesterol level. Kv7.2/Kv7.3 channels transiently expressed in HEK-293 cells were significantly inhibited by decreasing the cholesterol level in the plasma membrane by three different pharmacological strategies: methyl-β-cyclodextrin (MβCD), Filipin III, and cholesterol oxidase treatment. Surprisingly, Kv7.2/Kv7.3 channels were also inhibited by membrane cholesterol loading with the MβCD/cholesterol complex. Depletion or enrichment of plasma membrane cholesterol differentially affected the biophysical parameters of the macroscopic Kv7.2/Kv7.3 currents. These results indicate a complex mechanism of Kv7.2/Kv7.3 channels modulation by membrane cholesterol. We propose that inhibition of Kv7.2/Kv7.3 channels by membrane cholesterol depletion involves a loss of a direct cholesterol-channel interaction. However, the inhibition of Kv7.2/Kv7.3 channels by membrane cholesterol enrichment could include an additional direct cholesterol-channel interaction, or changes in the physical properties of the plasma membrane. In summary, our results indicate that an optimum cholesterol level in the plasma membrane is required for the proper functioning of Kv7.2/Kv7.3 channels. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A Quantitative Analysis of Neurons with Kv3 Potassium Channel Subunits–Kv3.1b and Kv3.2–in Macaque Primary Visual Cortex

PubMed Central

Constantinople, Christine M.; Disney, Anita A; Maffie, Jonathan; Rudy, Bernardo; Hawken, Michael J

2010-01-01

Voltage-gated potassium channels that are composed of Kv3 subunits exhibit distinct electrophysiological properties: activation at more depolarized potentials than other voltage-gated K+ channels and fast kinetics. These channels have been shown to contribute to the high-frequency firing of fast-spiking (FS) GABAergic interneurons in the rat and mouse brain. In the rodent neocortex, there are distinct patterns of expression for the Kv3.1b and Kv3.2 channel subunits and of co-expression of these subunits with neurochemical markers, such as the calcium-binding proteins parvalbumin (PV) and calbindin D-28K (CB). The distribution of Kv3 channels and interrelationship with calcium-binding protein expression has not been investigated in primate cortex. We used immunoperoxidase and immunofluorescent labeling and stereological counting techniques to characterize the laminar and cell-type distributions of Kv3-ir neurons in macaque V1. We found that across the cortical layers ~25% of both Kv3.1b- and Kv3.2-ir neurons are non-GABAergic. In contrast all Kv3-ir neurons in rodent cortex are GABAergic (Chow et al., 1999). The putatively excitatory Kv3-ir neurons were mostly located in layers 2, 3 and 4b. Further, the proportion of Kv3-ir neurons that express PV or CB also differs between macaque V1 and rodent cortex. These data indicate that, within the population of cortical neurons, a broader population of neurons, encompassing cells of a wider range of morphological classes may be capable of sustaining high-frequency firing in macaque V1. PMID:19634181

Welding of HSLA-100 steel using ultra low carbon bainitic weld metal to eliminate preheating

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Devletian, J.H.; Singh, D.; Wood, W.E.

1996-12-31

Advanced high strength steels such as the Navy`s HSLA-100 and HSLA-80 contain sufficiently low carbon levels to be weldable without preheating. Unfortunately, commercial filler metals specifically designed to weld these steels without costly preheating have not yet been developed. The objective of this paper is to show that the Navy`s advanced steels can be welded by gas metal-arc (GMAW) and gas tungsten-arc welding (GTAW) without preheating by using filler metal compositions that produce weld metal with an ultra-low carbon bainitic (ULCB) microstructure. Filler metals were fabricated from vacuum induction melted (VIM) ingots containing ultra-low levels of C, O and N.more » HSLA-100 plate and plate from the VIM ingots were welded by both GMAW and GTAW with Ar-5% CO{sub 2} shielding gas using welding conditions to achieve cooling times from 800 to 500 C (t{sub 8-5}) from 35 to 14 sec. Weld metal tensile, hardness and CVN impact toughness testing as well as microstructural studies using transmission electron microscopy were conducted. The ULCB weld metal was relatively insensitive to cooling rate, resulting in good strength and toughness values over a wide range of t{sub 8-5} cooling times. Filler metal compositions which met the mechanical property requirements for HSLA-100, HSLA-80 and HSLA-65 weld metal were developed.« less

Effect of part thickness, glass fiber and crystallinity on light scattering during laser transmission welding of thermoplastics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Xin Feng; Parkinson, Alexander; Bates, Philip J.; Zak, Gene

2015-12-01

It is important to understand how laser energy scatters within the transparent component in order to predict and optimize the laser transmission welding process. This paper examines the influence of part thickness, glass fiber and crystallinity levels on the distribution of laser light after transmission through amorphous polycarbonate (PC) and semi-crystalline polymers such as polyamide 6 (PA6), polypropylene (PP), and polyethylene (PE). An experimental technique based on laser-scanned lines of progressively increasing power was used to assess the transmitted energy distribution. This distribution was characterized using a two-parameter model that captures scattered and un-scattered components of the laser beam. The results clearly show how the scattering is increased by increasing the numbers of interactions between laser light and phase boundaries either by increasing the particle concentration (i.e., glass fiber level and crystallinity) or increasing part thickness.

Formation of porous inner architecture at the interface of magnetic pulse welded Al/Cu joints

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sapanathan, T.; Raoelison, R. N.; Yang, K.; Buiron, N.; Rachik, M.

2016-10-01

Porous inner architecture has been revealed at the interface of magnetic pulse welded aluminum/copper (Al/Cu) joints. These materials could serve the purpose of heterogeneous architectured materials, while their makeup of inner architecture of porous interface with the pore sizes of sub-micron to a few microns, could offer potential attributes in energy storage application. Two welding cases with various impact intensities are compared. An input voltage of 6.5 kV with an initial air gap of 1.5 mm and a higher voltage of 7.5 kV with a large initial air gap of 5 mm are respectively considered as two cases with low and high velocity impacts. Overall morphology of the porous medium was revealed at the interface either in layered or pocketed structures. The allocation of the porous zone and pore sizes vary with the impact condition. The low velocity impact welding conditions also produces smaller pores compared to the high velocity impact case, where the pore sizes varies in submicron to a few microns (<10μm). By investigating the potential mechanism of the porous zone formation, it was identified that a combined phenomena of cavitation and coalescence play a major role in nucleation and growth of the pores where a rapid cooling that eventually freezes the porous structure at the interface.

Selective activation of vascular Kv7.4/Kv7.5 K+ channels by fasudil contributes to its vasorelaxant effect

PubMed Central

Zhang, Xuan; An, Hailong; Li, Junwei; Zhang, Yuanyuan; Liu, Yang; Jia, Zhanfeng; Zhang, Wei

2016-01-01

Background and Purpose Kv7 (Kv7.1–7.5) channels play an important role in the regulation of neuronal excitability and the cardiac action potential. Growing evidence suggests Kv7.4/Kv7.5 channels play a crucial role in regulating vascular smooth muscle contractility. Most of the reported Kv7 openers have shown poor selectivity across these five subtypes. In this study, fasudil – a drug used for cerebral vasospasm – has been found to be a selective opener of Kv7.4/Kv7.5 channels. Experimental Approach A perforated whole‐cell patch technique was used to record the currents and membrane potential. Homology modelling and a docking technique were used to investigate the interaction between fasudil and the Kv7.4 channel. An isometric tension recording technique was used to assess the vascular tension. Key Results Fasudil selectively and potently enhanced Kv7.4 and Kv7.4/Kv7.5 currents expressed in HEK293 cells, and shifted the voltage‐dependent activation curve in a more negative direction. Fasudil did not affect either Kv7.2 and Kv7.2/Kv7.3 currents expressed in HEK293 cells, the native neuronal M‐type K+ currents, or the resting membrane potential in small rat dorsal root ganglia neurons. The Val248 in S5 and Ile308 in S6 segment of Kv7.4 were critical for this activating effect of fasudil. Fasudil relaxed precontracted rat small arteries in a concentration‐dependent fashion; this effect was antagonized by the Kv7 channel blocker XE991. Conclusions and Implications These results suggest that fasudil is a selective Kv7.4/Kv7.5 channel opener and provide a new dimension for developing selective Kv7 modulators and a new prospective for the use, action and mechanism of fasudil. PMID:27677924

Seasonal Patterns of Melatonin, Cortisol, and Progesterone Secretion in Female Lambs Raised Beneath a 500-KV Transmission Line

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Jack Monroe, Jr.

There is ongoing controversy about the possibility of adverse biological effects from environmental exposures to electric and magnetic fields. These fields are produced by all electrical equipment and appliances including electrical transmission lines. The objective of this environmental science study was to investigate the possible effects of a high voltage transmission line on domestic sheep (Ovis aries L.), a species that can often be found near such lines. The study was primarily designed to determine whether a specific effect of electric and magnetic fields found in laboratory animals also occurs in livestock under natural environmental conditions. The effect is the ability of fields, at levels found in the environment, to significantly depress the normally high nocturnal concentrations of the pineal hormone-melatonin. Ten female Suffolk lambs were penned for 10 months directly beneath a 500-kV transmission line near Estacada, Oregon. Ten other lambs of the same type were penned in a control area away from the transmission line where electric and magnetic fields were at ambient levels. Serum melatonin was analyzed by radioimmunoassay (RIA) from 6618 blood samples collected at 0.5 to 3-hour intervals over eight 48-hour periods. Serum progesterone was analyzed by RIA from blood samples collected twice weekly. Serum cortisol was also assayed by RIA from the blood samples collected during the 48-hour samples. Results showed that lambs in both the control and line groups had the typical pattern of melatonin secretion consisting of low daytime and high nighttime serum concentrations. There were no statistically significant differences between groups in melatonin levels, or in the phase or duration of the nighttime melatonin elevation. Age at puberty and number of reproductive cycles also did not differ between groups. Serum cortisol showed a circadian rhythm with highest concentrations during the day. There were, however, no differences in cortisol concentrations

Assessment of Welders Exposure to Carcinogen Metals from Manual Metal Arc Welding in Gas Transmission Pipelines, Iran

PubMed Central

Golbabaei, F; Seyedsomea, M; Ghahri, A; Shirkhanloo, H; Khadem, M; Hassani, H; Sadeghi, N; Dinari, B

2012-01-01

Background: Welding can produce dangerous fumes containing various metals especially carcinogenic ones. Occupational exposure to welding fumes is associated with lung cancer. Therefore, welders in Gas Transmission Pipelines are known as a high-risk group. This study was designed to determinate the amounts of metals Cr, Ni, and Cd in breathing zone and urine of welders and to assess the possibility of introducing urinary metals as a biomarker due to occupational exposure. Methods: In this cross sectional study, 94 individuals from Gas Transmission Pipelines welders, Iran, Borujen in 2011 were selected and classified into 3 groups including Welders, Back Welders and Assistances. The sampling procedures were performed according to NIOSH 7300 for total chromium, nickel, and cadmium and NIOSH 7600 for Cr+6. For all participants urine samples were collected during the entire work shift and metals in urine were determined according to NIOSH 8310. Results: Back Welders and Assistances groups had maximum and minimum exposure to total fume and its elements, respectively. In addition, results showed that there are significant differences (P<0.05) between Welders and Back Welders with Assistances group in exposure with total fume and elements except Ni. Urinary concentrations of three metals including Cr, Cd and Ni among all welders were about 4.5, 12 and 14-fold greater than those detected in controls, respectively. Weak correlations were found between airborne and urinary metals concentrations (R2: Cr=0.45, Cd=0.298, Ni=0.362). Conclusion: Urinary metals concentrations could not be considerate as a biomarker for welders’ exposure assessment. PMID:23113226

Assessment of welders exposure to carcinogen metals from manual metal arc welding in gas transmission pipelines, iran.

PubMed

Golbabaei, F; Seyedsomea, M; Ghahri, A; Shirkhanloo, H; Khadem, M; Hassani, H; Sadeghi, N; Dinari, B

2012-01-01

Welding can produce dangerous fumes containing various metals especially carcinogenic ones. Occupational exposure to welding fumes is associated with lung cancer. Therefore, welders in Gas Transmission Pipelines are known as a high-risk group. This study was designed to determinate the amounts of metals Cr, Ni, and Cd in breathing zone and urine of welders and to assess the possibility of introducing urinary metals as a biomarker due to occupational exposure. In this cross sectional study, 94 individuals from Gas Transmission Pipelines welders, Iran, Borujen in 2011 were selected and classified into 3 groups including Welders, Back Welders and Assistances. The sampling procedures were performed according to NIOSH 7300 for total chromium, nickel, and cadmium and NIOSH 7600 for Cr+6. For all participants urine samples were collected during the entire work shift and metals in urine were determined according to NIOSH 8310. Back Welders and Assistances groups had maximum and minimum exposure to total fume and its elements, respectively. In addition, results showed that there are significant differences (P<0.05) between Welders and Back Welders with Assistances group in exposure with total fume and elements except Ni. Urinary concentrations of three metals including Cr, Cd and Ni among all welders were about 4.5, 12 and 14-fold greater than those detected in controls, respectively. Weak correlations were found between airborne and urinary metals concentrations (R2: Cr=0.45, Cd=0.298, Ni=0.362). Urinary metals concentrations could not be considerate as a biomarker for welders' exposure assessment.

Contribution of kv7.4/kv7.5 heteromers to intrinsic and calcitonin gene-related peptide-induced cerebral reactivity.

PubMed

Chadha, Preet S; Jepps, Thomas A; Carr, Georgina; Stott, Jennifer B; Zhu, Hei-Lei; Cole, William C; Greenwood, Iain A

2014-04-01

Middle cerebral artery (MCA) diameter is regulated by inherent myogenic activity and the effect of potent vasodilators such as calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP). Previous studies showed that MCAs express KCNQ1, 4, and 5 potassium channel genes, and the expression products (Kv7 channels) participate in the myogenic control of MCA diameter. The present study investigated the contribution of Kv7.4 and Kv7.5 isoforms to myogenic and CGRP regulation of MCA diameter and determined whether they were affected in hypertensive animals. Isometric tension recordings performed on MCA from normotensive rats produced CGRP vasodilations that were inhibited by the pan-Kv7 channel blocker linopirdine (P<0.01) and after transfection of arteries with siRNA against KCNQ4 (P<0.01) but not KCNQ5. However, isobaric myography revealed that myogenic constriction in response to increases in intravascular pressure (20-80 mm Hg) was affected by both KCNQ4 and KCNQ5 siRNA. Proximity ligation assay signals were equally abundant for Kv7.4/Kv7.4 or Kv7.4/Kv7.5 antibody combinations but minimal for Kv7.5/Kv7.5 antibodies or Kv7.4/7.1 combinations. In contrast to systemic arteries, Kv7 function and Kv7.4 abundance in MCA were not altered in hypertensive rats. This study reveals, for the first time to our knowledge, that in cerebral arteries, Kv7.4 and Kv7.5 proteins exist predominantly as a functional heterotetramer, which regulates intrinsic myogenicity and vasodilation attributed to CGRP. Surprisingly, unlike systemic arteries, Kv7 activity in MCAs is not affected by the development of hypertension, and CGRP-mediated vasodilation is well maintained. As such, cerebrovascular Kv7 channels could be amenable for therapeutic targeting in conditions such as cerebral vasospasm.

75 FR 27775 - Kenai Hydro, LLC; Notice of Scoping Meetings, Environmental Site Review, and Soliciting Scoping...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-05-18

... agency, they must also serve a copy of the document on that resource agency. k. This application is not... transmission line at 115, 69, or 24.9-kilovolt (kV), or twelve 15-kV; a new 3.4-mile-long access road; and... unimproved trail conditions for the entire day ( 3 miles with 200 feet of elevation gain). Participants...

Kv1.1 channelopathy abolishes presynaptic spike width modulation by subthreshold somatic depolarization

PubMed Central

Vivekananda, Umesh; Novak, Pavel; Bello, Oscar D.; Korchev, Yuri E.; Krishnakumar, Shyam S.; Volynski, Kirill E.; Kullmann, Dimitri M.

2017-01-01

Although action potentials propagate along axons in an all-or-none manner, subthreshold membrane potential fluctuations at the soma affect neurotransmitter release from synaptic boutons. An important mechanism underlying analog–digital modulation is depolarization-mediated inactivation of presynaptic Kv1-family potassium channels, leading to action potential broadening and increased calcium influx. Previous studies have relied heavily on recordings from blebs formed after axon transection, which may exaggerate the passive propagation of somatic depolarization. We recorded instead from small boutons supplied by intact axons identified with scanning ion conductance microscopy in primary hippocampal cultures and asked how distinct potassium channels interact in determining the basal spike width and its modulation by subthreshold somatic depolarization. Pharmacological or genetic deletion of Kv1.1 broadened presynaptic spikes without preventing further prolongation by brief depolarizing somatic prepulses. A heterozygous mouse model of episodic ataxia type 1 harboring a dominant Kv1.1 mutation had a similar broadening effect on basal spike shape as deletion of Kv1.1; however, spike modulation by somatic prepulses was abolished. These results argue that the Kv1.1 subunit is not necessary for subthreshold modulation of spike width. However, a disease-associated mutant subunit prevents the interplay of analog and digital transmission, possibly by disrupting the normal stoichiometry of presynaptic potassium channels. PMID:28193892

Design of reinforcement welding machine within steel framework for marine engineering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Gang; Wu, Jin

2017-04-01

In this project, a design scheme that reinforcement welding machine is added within the steel framework is proposed according to the double-side welding technology for box-beam structure in marine engineering. Then the design and development of circuit and transmission mechanism for new welding equipment are completed as well with one sample machine being made. Moreover, the trial running is finished finally. Main technical parameters of the equipment are: the working stroke: ≥1500mm, the welding speed: 8˜15cm/min and the welding sheet thickness: ≥20mm.

Development of a 66kV Class Rectifier Type Fault Current Limiter System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ohkuma, Takeshi; Sato, Yoshibumi; Takahashi, Yoshihisa; Tokuda, Noriaki; Murai, Masaki; Nagasaki, Norihisa; Yuguchi, Kyousuke

A fault current limiter (FCL) is extensively expected to suppress fault current, particularly required for trunk power systems heavily connected high-voltage transmission lines, such as 500 kV class power system which constitutes the nucleus of the electric power system. By installing such FCL in the power system, the system interconnection is possible without the need to raise the capacity of the circuit breakers, and it is expected that FCLs may be used in more efficient power system design. For these reasons, FCLs based on various principles of operation have been developed in the world. In this paper, we have proposed a new type of FCL system, consisting of solid-state diodes, DC coil and bypass AC coil, and described the specification of distribution power system and 66 kV class FCL model. Also we have proposed a 66 kV class prototype single-phase model and the current limiting performance of this model was evaluated using a short circuit generator.

Kv7.5 Potassium Channel Subunits Are the Primary Targets for PKA-Dependent Enhancement of Vascular Smooth Muscle Kv7 Currents

PubMed Central

Mani, Bharath K.; Robakowski, Christina; Brueggemann, Lyubov I.; Cribbs, Leanne L.; Tripathi, Abhishek; Majetschak, Matthias

2016-01-01

Kv7 (KCNQ) channels, formed as homo- or heterotetramers of Kv7.4 and Kv7.5 α-subunits, are important regulators of vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) membrane voltage. Recent studies demonstrate that direct pharmacological modulation of VSMC Kv7 channel activity can influence blood vessel contractility and diameter. However, the physiologic regulation of Kv7 channel activity is still poorly understood. Here, we study the effect of cAMP/protein kinase A (PKA) activation on whole cell K+ currents through endogenous Kv7.5 channels in A7r5 rat aortic smooth muscle cells or through Kv7.4/Kv7.5 heteromeric channels natively expressed in rat mesenteric artery smooth muscle cells. The contributions of specific α-subunits are further dissected using exogenously expressed human Kv7.4 and Kv7.5 homo- or heterotetrameric channels in A7r5 cells. Stimulation of Gαs-coupled β-adrenergic receptors with isoproterenol induced PKA-dependent activation of endogenous Kv7.5 currents in A7r5 cells. The receptor-mediated enhancement of Kv7.5 currents was mimicked by pharmacological agents that increase [cAMP] (forskolin, rolipram, 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine, and papaverine) or mimic cAMP (8-bromo-cAMP); the 2- to 4-fold PKA-dependent enhancement of currents was also observed with exogenously expressed Kv7.5 channels. In contrast, exogenously-expressed heterotetrameric Kv7.4/7.5 channels in A7r5 cells or native mesenteric artery smooth muscle Kv7.4/7.5 channels were only modestly enhanced, and homo-tetrameric Kv7.4 channels were insensitive to this regulatory pathway. Correspondingly, proximity ligation assays indicated that isoproterenol induced PKA-dependent phosphorylation of exogenously expressed Kv7.5 channel subunits, but not of Kv7.4 subunits. These results suggest that signal transduction-mediated responsiveness of vascular smooth muscle Kv7 channel subunits to cAMP/PKA activation follows the order of Kv7.5 >> Kv7.4/Kv7.5 > Kv7.4. PMID:26700561

77 FR 10475 - Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association, Inc., Notice of Intent To Hold Public Scoping...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-02-22

... Assessment (EA) to meet its responsibilities under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and RUS's... proposed Burlington-Wray 230-kilovolt (kV) Transmission Project (Proposal) consists of the following: a proposed new single-circuit 230-kV electric transmission line between the existing Burlington Substation in...

Kv7.5 Potassium Channel Subunits Are the Primary Targets for PKA-Dependent Enhancement of Vascular Smooth Muscle Kv7 Currents.

PubMed

Mani, Bharath K; Robakowski, Christina; Brueggemann, Lyubov I; Cribbs, Leanne L; Tripathi, Abhishek; Majetschak, Matthias; Byron, Kenneth L

2016-03-01

Kv7 (KCNQ) channels, formed as homo- or heterotetramers of Kv7.4 and Kv7.5 α-subunits, are important regulators of vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) membrane voltage. Recent studies demonstrate that direct pharmacological modulation of VSMC Kv7 channel activity can influence blood vessel contractility and diameter. However, the physiologic regulation of Kv7 channel activity is still poorly understood. Here, we study the effect of cAMP/protein kinase A (PKA) activation on whole cell K(+) currents through endogenous Kv7.5 channels in A7r5 rat aortic smooth muscle cells or through Kv7.4/Kv7.5 heteromeric channels natively expressed in rat mesenteric artery smooth muscle cells. The contributions of specific α-subunits are further dissected using exogenously expressed human Kv7.4 and Kv7.5 homo- or heterotetrameric channels in A7r5 cells. Stimulation of Gαs-coupled β-adrenergic receptors with isoproterenol induced PKA-dependent activation of endogenous Kv7.5 currents in A7r5 cells. The receptor-mediated enhancement of Kv7.5 currents was mimicked by pharmacological agents that increase [cAMP] (forskolin, rolipram, 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine, and papaverine) or mimic cAMP (8-bromo-cAMP); the 2- to 4-fold PKA-dependent enhancement of currents was also observed with exogenously expressed Kv7.5 channels. In contrast, exogenously-expressed heterotetrameric Kv7.4/7.5 channels in A7r5 cells or native mesenteric artery smooth muscle Kv7.4/7.5 channels were only modestly enhanced, and homo-tetrameric Kv7.4 channels were insensitive to this regulatory pathway. Correspondingly, proximity ligation assays indicated that isoproterenol induced PKA-dependent phosphorylation of exogenously expressed Kv7.5 channel subunits, but not of Kv7.4 subunits. These results suggest that signal transduction-mediated responsiveness of vascular smooth muscle Kv7 channel subunits to cAMP/PKA activation follows the order of Kv7.5 > Kv7.4/Kv7.5 > Kv7.4. Copyright © 2016 by The American Society for

Association of Ambient Air Pollution with Respiratory Hospitalization in a Government-Designated “Area of Concern”: The Case of Windsor, Ontario

PubMed Central

Luginaah, Isaac N.; Fung, Karen Y.; Gorey, Kevin M.; Webster, Greg; Wills, Chris

2005-01-01

This study is part of a larger research program to examine the relationship between ambient air quality and health in Windsor, Ontario, Canada. We assessed the association between air pollution and daily respiratory hospitalization for different age and sex groups from 1995 to 2000. The pollutants included were nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, ozone, particulate matter ≤10 μm in diameter (PM10), coefficient of haze (COH), and total reduced sulfur (TRS). We calculated relative risk (RR) estimates using both time-series and case-crossover methods after controlling for appropriate confounders (temperature, humidity, and change in barometric pressure). The results of both analyses were consistent. We found associations between NO2, SO2, CO, COH, or PM10 and daily hospital admission of respiratory diseases especially among females. For females 0–14 years of age, there was 1-day delayed effect of NO2 (RR = 1.19, case-crossover method), a current-day SO2 (RR = 1.11, time series), and current-day and 1- and 2-day delayed effects for CO by case crossover (RR = 1.15, 1.19, 1.22, respectively). Time-series analysis showed that 1-day delayed effect of PM10 on respiratory admissions of adult males (15–64 years of age), with an RR of 1.18. COH had significant effects on female respiratory hospitalization, especially for 2-day delayed effects on adult females, with RRs of 1.15 and 1.29 using time-series and case-crossover analysis, respectively. There were no significant associations between O3 and TRS with respiratory admissions. These findings provide policy makers with current risks estimates of respiratory hospitalization as a result of poor ambient air quality in a government designated “area of concern.” PMID:15743717

Effects of post-weld heat treatment on microstructure and mechanical properties of laser welds in GH3535 superalloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Kun; Jiang, Zhenguo; Leng, Bin; Li, Chaowen; Chen, Shuangjian; Tao, Wang; Zhou, Xingtai; Li, Zhijun

2016-07-01

In this study, the microstructure and mechanical properties of laser welds before and after post-weld heat treatment processes were studied. The results show that the tensile strength of the joints can be increased by 90 MPa by a post-weld heat treatment process at 871 °C for 6 h, exceeding the strength of the original state of the base metal. Besides, elongation of the joints are also increased to 43% by the process, whereas the elongation of as-welded joints are only 22%. In addition, the Charpy impact properties of laser welds almost do not change. Second phase precipitates, which were identified as Mo-Si rich M6C-type carbides by transmission electron diffraction and scanning electron microscope, were observed at solidification grain boundaries and solidification subgrain boundaries. These carbides can pin dislocations during the following tensile deformation, hence are responsible for the strengthening of tensile properties of the joints.

Fe2O3 nanoparticles suppress Kv1.3 channels via affecting the redox activity of Kvβ2 subunit in Jurkat T cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yan, Li; Liu, Xiao; Liu, Wei-Xia; Tan, Xiao-Qiu; Xiong, Fei; Gu, Ning; Hao, Wei; Gao, Xue; Cao, Ji-Min

2015-12-01

Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) are promising nanomaterials in medical practice due to their special magnetic characteristics and nanoscale size. However, their potential impacts on immune cells are not well documented. This study aims to investigate the effects of Fe2O3 nanoparticles (Fe2O3-NPs) on the electrophysiology of Kv1.3 channels in Jurkat T cells. Using the whole-cell patch-clamp technique, we demonstrate that incubation of Jurkat cells with Fe2O3-NPs dose- and time-dependently decreased the current density and shifted the steady-state inactivation curve and the recovery curve of Kv1.3 channels to a rightward direction. Fe2O3-NPs increased the NADP level but decreased the NADPH level of Jurkat cells. Direct induction of NADPH into the cytosole of Jurkat cells via the pipette abolished the rightward shift of the inactivation curve. In addition, transmission electron microscopy showed that Fe2O3-NPs could be endocytosed by Jurkat cells with relatively low speed and capacity. Fe2O3-NPs did not significantly affect the viability of Jurkat cells, but suppressed the expressions of certain cytokines (TNFα, IFNγ and IL-2) and interferon responsive genes (IRF-1 and PIM-1), and the time courses of Fe2O3-NPs endocytosis and effects on the expressions of cytokines and interferon responsive genes were compatible. We conclude that Fe2O3-NPs can be endocytosed by Jurkat cells and act intracellularly. Fe2O3-NPs decrease the current density and delay the inactivation and recovery kinetics of Kv1.3 channels in Jurkat cells by oxidizing NADPH and therefore disrupting the redox activity of the Kvβ2 auxiliary subunit, and as a result, lead to changes of the Kv1.3 channel function. These results suggest that iron oxide nanoparticles may affect T cell function by disturbing the activity of Kv1.3 channels. Further, the suppressing effects of Fe2O3-NPs on the expressions of certain inflammatory cytokines and interferon responsive genes suggest that iron

Microstructure and mechanical properties of friction stir welded and laser welded high entropy alloy CrMnFeCoNi

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jo, Min-Gu; Kim, Han-Jin; Kang, Minjung; Madakashira, Phaniraj P.; Park, Eun Soo; Suh, Jin-Yoo; Kim, Dong-Ik; Hong, Sung-Tae; Han, Heung Nam

2018-01-01

The high entropy alloy CrMnFeCoNi has been shown to have promising structural properties. For a new alloy to be used in a structural application it should be weldable. In the present study, friction stir welding (FSW) and laser welding (LW) techniques were used to butt weld thin plates of CrMnFeCoNi. The microstructure, chemical homogeneity and mechanical behavior of the welds were characterized and compared with the base metal. The tensile stress-strain behavior of the welded specimens were reasonable when compared with that of the base metal. FSW refined the grain size in the weld region by a factor of ˜14 when compared with the base metal. High-angle annular dark field transmission electron microscopy in combination with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy showed chemical inhomogeneity between dendritic and interdendritic regions in the fusion zone of LW. Large fluctuations in composition (up to 15 at%) did not change the crystal structure in the fusion zone. Hardness measurements were carried out in the weld cross section and discussed in view of the grain size, low angle grain boundaries and twin boundaries in FSW specimens and the dendritic microstructure in LW specimens.

Dysfunction of the Heteromeric KV7.3/KV7.5 Potassium Channel is Associated with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

PubMed

Gilling, Mette; Rasmussen, Hanne B; Calloe, Kirstine; Sequeira, Ana F; Baretto, Marta; Oliveira, Guiomar; Almeida, Joana; Lauritsen, Marlene B; Ullmann, Reinhard; Boonen, Susanne E; Brondum-Nielsen, Karen; Kalscheuer, Vera M; Tümer, Zeynep; Vicente, Astrid M; Schmitt, Nicole; Tommerup, Niels

2013-01-01

Heterozygous mutations in the KCNQ3 gene on chromosome 8q24 encoding the voltage-gated potassium channel KV7.3 subunit have previously been associated with rolandic epilepsy and idiopathic generalized epilepsy (IGE) including benign neonatal convulsions. We identified a de novo t(3;8) (q21;q24) translocation truncating KCNQ3 in a boy with childhood autism. In addition, we identified a c.1720C > T [p.P574S] nucleotide change in three unrelated individuals with childhood autism and no history of convulsions. This nucleotide change was previously reported in patients with rolandic epilepsy or IGE and has now been annotated as a very rare SNP (rs74582884) in dbSNP. The p.P574S KV7.3 variant significantly reduced potassium current amplitude in Xenopus laevis oocytes when co-expressed with KV7.5 but not with KV7.2 or KV7.4. The nucleotide change did not affect trafficking of heteromeric mutant KV7.3/2, KV7.3/4, or KV7.3/5 channels in HEK 293 cells or primary rat hippocampal neurons. Our results suggest that dysfunction of the heteromeric KV7.3/5 channel is implicated in the pathogenesis of some forms of autism spectrum disorders, epilepsy, and possibly other psychiatric disorders and therefore, KCNQ3 and KCNQ5 are suggested as candidate genes for these disorders.

Decreased expression of Kv7 channels in Hirchsprung's disease.

PubMed

O'Donnell, Anne-Marie; Coyle, David; Puri, Prem

2017-07-01

Voltage-dependent K + channels (Kv channels) participate in electrical rhythmicity and smooth muscle responses and are regulated by excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters. Kv channels also participate in the interstitial cell of Cajal (ICC) and smooth muscle cell (SMC) responses to neural inputs. The Kv family consists of 12 subfamilies, Kv1-Kv12, with five members of the Kv7 family identified to date: Kv7.1-Kv7.5. A recent study identified the potassium channel Kv7.5 as having a role in the excitability of ICC-IM in the mouse colon. We therefore designed this study to test the hypothesis that Kv7 channels are present in the normal human colon and are reduced in Hirschprung's disease (HSCR). HSCR tissue specimens were collected at the time of pull-through surgery (n=10), while normal control tissue specimens were obtained at the time of colostomy closure in patients with imperforate anus (n=10). Kv7.3-Kv7.5 immunohistochemistry was performed and visualized using confocal microscopy to assess their distribution. Western blot analysis was undertaken to determine Kv7.3-Kv7.5 protein quantification. Kv7.3 and Kv7.4-immunoreactivity was co-localized with neuron and ICC markers, while Kv7.5 was found to be expressed on both ICCs and SMCs. Western blot analysis revealed similar levels of Kv7.3 and Kv7.5 expression in the normal colon and HSCR colon, while Kv7.4 proteins were found to be markedly decreased in ganglionic specimens and decreased further in aganglionic specimens. A deficiency of Kv7.4 channels in the ganglionic and aganglionic bowel may place a role in colonic dysmotility in HSCR. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Corona performance of a compact 230-kV line

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chartier, V.L.; Blair, D.E.; Easley, M.D.

Permitting requirements and the acquisition of new rights-of-way for transmission facilities has in recent years become increasingly difficult for most utilities, including Puget Sound Power and Light Company. In order to maintain a high degree of reliability of service while being responsive to public concerns regarding the siting of high voltage (HV) transmission facilities, Puget Power has found it necessary to more heavily rely upon the use of compact lines in franchise corridors. Compaction does, however, precipitate increased levels of audible noise (AN) and radio and TV interference (RI and TVI) due to corona on the conductors and insulator assemblies.more » Puget Power relies upon the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) Corona and Field Effects computer program to calculate AN and RI for new lines. Since there was some question of the program`s ability to accurately represent quiet 230-kV compact designs, a joint project was undertaken with BPA to verify the program`s algorithms. Long-term measurements made on an operating Puget Power 230-kV compact line confirmed the accuracy of BPA`s AN model; however, the RI measurements were much lower than predicted by the BPA and other programs. This paper also describes how the BPA computer program can be used to calculate the voltage needed to expose insulator assemblies to the correct electric field in single test setups in HV laboratories.« less

Corona performance of a compact 230-kV line

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chartier, V.L.; Blair, D.E.; Easley, M.D.

Permitting requirements and the acquisition of new rights-of-way for transmission facilities has in recent years become increasingly difficult for most utilities, including Puget Sound Power and Light Company. In order to maintain a high degree of reliability of service while being responsive to public concerns regarding the siting of high voltage (HV) transmission facilities, Puget Power has found it necessary to more heavily rely upon the use of compact lines in franchise corridors. Compaction does, however, precipitant increased levels of audible noise (AN) and radio and TV interference (RI and TVI) due to corona on the conductors and insulator assemblies.more » Puget Power relies upon the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) Corona and Field Effects computer program to calculate AN and RI for new lines. Since there was some question of the program`s ability to accurately represent quiet 230-kV compact designs, a joint project was undertaken with BPA to verify the program`s algorithms. Long-term measurements made on an operating Puget Power 230-kV compact line confirmed the accuracy of BPA`s AN model; however, the RI measurements were much lower than predicted by the BPA computer and other programs. This paper also describes how the BPA computer program can be used to calculate the voltage needed to expose insulator assemblies to the correct electric field in single test setups in HV laboratories.« less

Plasmonic welded single walled carbon nanotubes on monolayer graphene for sensing target protein

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Jangheon; Kim, Gi Gyu; Kim, Soohyun; Jung, Wonsuk

2016-05-01

We developed plasmonic welded single walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) on monolayer graphene as a biosensor to detect target antigen molecules, fc fusion protein without any treatment to generate binder groups for linker and antibody. This plasmonic welding induces atomic networks between SWCNTs as junctions containing carboxylic groups and improves the electrical sensitivity of a SWCNTs and the graphene membrane to detect target protein. We investigated generation of the atomic networks between SWCNTs by field-emission scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy after plasmonic welding process. We compared the intensity ratios of D to G peaks from the Raman spectra and electrical sheet resistance of welded SWCNTs with the results of normal SWCNTs, which decreased from 0.115 to 0.086 and from 10.5 to 4.12, respectively. Additionally, we measured the drain current via source/drain voltage after binding of the antigen to the antibody molecules. This electrical sensitivity of the welded SWCNTs was 1.55 times larger than normal SWCNTs.

Dysfunction of the Heteromeric KV7.3/KV7.5 Potassium Channel is Associated with Autism Spectrum Disorders

PubMed Central

Gilling, Mette; Rasmussen, Hanne B.; Calloe, Kirstine; Sequeira, Ana F.; Baretto, Marta; Oliveira, Guiomar; Almeida, Joana; Lauritsen, Marlene B.; Ullmann, Reinhard; Boonen, Susanne E.; Brondum-Nielsen, Karen; Kalscheuer, Vera M.; Tümer, Zeynep; Vicente, Astrid M.; Schmitt, Nicole; Tommerup, Niels

2012-01-01

Heterozygous mutations in the KCNQ3 gene on chromosome 8q24 encoding the voltage-gated potassium channel KV7.3 subunit have previously been associated with rolandic epilepsy and idiopathic generalized epilepsy (IGE) including benign neonatal convulsions. We identified a de novo t(3;8) (q21;q24) translocation truncating KCNQ3 in a boy with childhood autism. In addition, we identified a c.1720C > T [p.P574S] nucleotide change in three unrelated individuals with childhood autism and no history of convulsions. This nucleotide change was previously reported in patients with rolandic epilepsy or IGE and has now been annotated as a very rare SNP (rs74582884) in dbSNP. The p.P574S KV7.3 variant significantly reduced potassium current amplitude in Xenopus laevis oocytes when co-expressed with KV7.5 but not with KV7.2 or KV7.4. The nucleotide change did not affect trafficking of heteromeric mutant KV7.3/2, KV7.3/4, or KV7.3/5 channels in HEK 293 cells or primary rat hippocampal neurons. Our results suggest that dysfunction of the heteromeric KV7.3/5 channel is implicated in the pathogenesis of some forms of autism spectrum disorders, epilepsy, and possibly other psychiatric disorders and therefore, KCNQ3 and KCNQ5 are suggested as candidate genes for these disorders. PMID:23596459

A Kv7.2 mutation associated with early onset epileptic encephalopathy with suppression-burst enhances Kv7/M channel activity.

PubMed

Devaux, Jérôme; Abidi, Affef; Roubertie, Agathe; Molinari, Florence; Becq, Hélène; Lacoste, Caroline; Villard, Laurent; Milh, Mathieu; Aniksztejn, Laurent

2016-05-01

Mutations in the KCNQ2 gene encoding the voltage-gated potassium channel subunit Kv7.2 cause early onset epileptic encephalopathy (EOEE). Most mutations have been shown to induce a loss of function or to affect the subcellular distribution of Kv7 channels in neurons. Herein, we investigated functional consequences and subcellular distribution of the p.V175L mutation of Kv7.2 (Kv7.2(V175L) ) found in a patient presenting EOEE. We observed that the mutation produced a 25-40 mV hyperpolarizing shift of the conductance-voltage relationship of both the homomeric Kv7.2(V175L) and heteromeric Kv7.2(V175L) /Kv7.3 channels compared to wild-type channels and a 10 mV hyperpolarizing shift of Kv7.2(V175L) /Kv7.2/Kv7.3 channels in a 1:1:2 ratio mimicking the patient situation. Mutant channels also displayed faster activation kinetics and an increased current density that was prevented by 1 μm linopirdine. The p.V175L mutation did not affect the protein expression of Kv7 channels and its localization at the axon initial segment. We conclude that p.V175L is a gain of function mutation. This confirms previous observations showing that mutations having opposite consequences on M channels can produce EOEE. These findings alert us that drugs aiming to increase Kv7 channel activity might have adverse effects in EOEE in the case of gain-of-function variants. Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2016 International League Against Epilepsy.

Investigation of a stripline transmission line structure for gyromagnetic nonlinear transmission line high power microwave sources.

PubMed

Reale, D V; Parson, J M; Neuber, A A; Dickens, J C; Mankowski, J J

2016-03-01

A stripline gyromagnetic nonlinear transmission line (NLTL) was constructed out of yttrium iron garnet ferrite and tested at charge voltages of 35 kV-55 kV with bias fields ranging from 10 kA/m to 20 kA/m. Typically, high power gyromagnetic NLTLs are constructed in a coaxial geometry. While this approach has many advantages, including a uniform transverse electromagnetic (TEM) mode, simple interconnection between components, and the ability to use oil or pressurized gas as an insulator, the coaxial implementation suffers from complexity of construction, especially when using a solid insulator. By moving to a simpler transmission line geometry, NLTLs can be constructed more easily and arrayed on a single substrate. This work represents a first step in exploring the suitability of various transmission line structures, such as microstrips and coplanar waveguides. The resulting high power microwave (HPM) source operates in ultra high frequency (UHF) band with an average bandwidth of 40.1% and peak rf power from 2 MW to 12.7 MW.

A long-pulse repetitive operation magnetically insulated transmission line oscillator.

PubMed

Fan, Yu-Wei; Zhong, Hui-Huang; Zhang, Jian-De; Shu, Ting; Liu, Jin Liang

2014-05-01

The improved magnetically insulated transmission line oscillator (MILO) is a gigawatt-class L-band high power microwave tube. It has allowed us to generate 3.1 GW pulse of 40 ns duration in the single-pulse operation and 500 MW pulse of 25 ns duration in the repetition rate operation. However, because of the severe impedance mismatch, the power conversion efficiency is only about 4% in the repetition rate operation. In order to eliminate the impedance mismatch and obtain repetitive long-pulse high-power microwave (HPM), a series of experiments are carried out and the recent progress is presented in this paper. In the single-pulse operation, when the diode voltage is 466 kV and current is 41.6 kA, the radiated microwave power is above 2.2 GW, the pulse duration is above 102 ns, the microwave frequency is about 1.74 GHz, and the power conversion efficiency is about 11.5%. In the repetition rate operation, under the condition of the diode voltage about 400 kV, beam current about 38 kA, the radiated microwave power is about 1.0 GW, the pulse duration is about 85 ns. Moreover, the radiated microwave power and the pulse duration decline little by little when the shot numbers increase gradually. The experimental results show that the impedance matching is a vital factor for HPM systems and one of the major technical challenges is to improve the cathode for the repetition rate operation MILO.

Nanoscale welding of multi-walled carbon nanotubes by 1064 nm fiber laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuan, Yanping; Liu, Zhi; Zhang, Kaihu; Han, Weina; Chen, Jimin

2018-07-01

This study proposes an efficient approach which uses 1064 nm continuous fiber laser to achieve nanoscale welding of crossed multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). By changing the irradiation time, different quality of nanoscale welding is obtained. The morphology changes are investigated by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM). The experiments demonstrate that better quality of MWCNTs nanoscale welding after 3 s irradiation can be obtained. It is found that new graphene layers between crossed nanotubes induced by laser make the nanoscale welding achieved due to the absorption of laser energy.

Flexible drive allows blind machining and welding in hard-to-reach areas

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Harvey, D. E.; Rohrberg, R. G.

1966-01-01

Flexible power and control unit performs welding and machining operations in confined areas. A machine/weld head is connected to the unit by a flexible transmission shaft, and a locking- indexing collar is incorporated onto the head to allow it to be placed and held in position.

G-protein βγ subunits are positive regulators of Kv7.4 and native vascular Kv7 channel activity.

PubMed

Stott, Jennifer B; Povstyan, Oleksandr V; Carr, Georgina; Barrese, Vincenzo; Greenwood, Iain A

2015-05-19

Kv7.4 channels are a crucial determinant of arterial diameter both at rest and in response to endogenous vasodilators. However, nothing is known about the factors that ensure effective activity of these channels. We report that G-protein βγ subunits increase the amplitude and activation rate of whole-cell voltage-dependent K(+) currents sensitive to the Kv7 blocker linopirdine in HEK cells heterologously expressing Kv7.4, and in rat renal artery myocytes. In excised patch recordings, Gβγ subunits (2-250 ng /mL) enhanced the open probability of Kv7.4 channels without changing unitary conductance. Kv7 channel activity was also augmented by stimulation of G-protein-coupled receptors. Gallein, an inhibitor of Gβγ subunits, prevented these stimulatory effects. Moreover, gallein and two other structurally different Gβγ subunit inhibitors (GRK2i and a β-subunit antibody) abolished Kv7 channel currents in the absence of either Gβγ subunit enrichment or G-protein-coupled receptor stimulation. Proximity ligation assay revealed that Kv7.4 and Gβγ subunits colocalized in HEK cells and renal artery smooth muscle cells. Gallein disrupted this colocalization, contracted whole renal arteries to a similar degree as the Kv7 inhibitor linopirdine, and impaired isoproterenol-induced relaxations. Furthermore, mSIRK, which disassociates Gβγ subunits from α subunits without stimulating nucleotide exchange, relaxed precontracted arteries in a linopirdine-sensitive manner. These results reveal that Gβγ subunits are fundamental for Kv7.4 activation and crucial for vascular Kv7 channel activity, which has major consequences for the regulation of arterial tone.

G-protein βγ subunits are positive regulators of Kv7.4 and native vascular Kv7 channel activity

PubMed Central

Stott, Jennifer B.; Povstyan, Oleksandr V.; Carr, Georgina; Barrese, Vincenzo; Greenwood, Iain A.

2015-01-01

Kv7.4 channels are a crucial determinant of arterial diameter both at rest and in response to endogenous vasodilators. However, nothing is known about the factors that ensure effective activity of these channels. We report that G-protein βγ subunits increase the amplitude and activation rate of whole-cell voltage-dependent K+ currents sensitive to the Kv7 blocker linopirdine in HEK cells heterologously expressing Kv7.4, and in rat renal artery myocytes. In excised patch recordings, Gβγ subunits (2–250 ng /mL) enhanced the open probability of Kv7.4 channels without changing unitary conductance. Kv7 channel activity was also augmented by stimulation of G-protein–coupled receptors. Gallein, an inhibitor of Gβγ subunits, prevented these stimulatory effects. Moreover, gallein and two other structurally different Gβγ subunit inhibitors (GRK2i and a β-subunit antibody) abolished Kv7 channel currents in the absence of either Gβγ subunit enrichment or G-protein–coupled receptor stimulation. Proximity ligation assay revealed that Kv7.4 and Gβγ subunits colocalized in HEK cells and renal artery smooth muscle cells. Gallein disrupted this colocalization, contracted whole renal arteries to a similar degree as the Kv7 inhibitor linopirdine, and impaired isoproterenol-induced relaxations. Furthermore, mSIRK, which disassociates Gβγ subunits from α subunits without stimulating nucleotide exchange, relaxed precontracted arteries in a linopirdine-sensitive manner. These results reveal that Gβγ subunits are fundamental for Kv7.4 activation and crucial for vascular Kv7 channel activity, which has major consequences for the regulation of arterial tone. PMID:25941381

Performance Characteristics of Automotive Engines in the United States : First Series - Report No. 19 - 1975 Ford Windsor 351 CID (5.7 Liters), 2V

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1978-05-01

Experimental data were obtained in dynamometer tests of a 1975 Ford 351 CID, 2V, Windsor engine to determine fuel consumption and emissions (hydrocarbon, carbon monoxide, oxides of nitrogen) at steady-state engine-operating modes. The objective of th...

28 CFR 115.152-115.153 - [Reserved

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 28 Judicial Administration 2 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false [Reserved] 115.152-115.153 Section 115.152-115.153 Judicial Administration DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE (CONTINUED) PRISON RAPE ELIMINATION ACT NATIONAL STANDARDS Standards for Lockups Reporting §§ 115.152-115.153 [Reserved] ...

28 CFR 115.152-115.53 - [Reserved

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 28 Judicial Administration 2 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false [Reserved] 115.152-115.53 Section 115.152-115.53 Judicial Administration DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE (CONTINUED) PRISON RAPE ELIMINATION ACT NATIONAL STANDARDS Standards for Lockups Reporting §§ 115.152-115.53 [Reserved] ...

28 CFR 115.152-115.53 - [Reserved

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 28 Judicial Administration 2 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false [Reserved] 115.152-115.53 Section 115.152-115.53 Judicial Administration DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE (CONTINUED) PRISON RAPE ELIMINATION ACT NATIONAL STANDARDS Standards for Lockups Reporting §§ 115.152-115.53 [Reserved] ...

Laser based spot weld characterization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jonietz, Florian; Myrach, Philipp; Rethmeier, Michael; Suwala, Hubert; Ziegler, Mathias

2016-02-01

Spot welding is one of the most important joining technologies, especially in the automotive industry. Hitherto, the quality of spot welded joints is tested mainly by random destructive tests. A nondestructive testing technique offers the benefit of cost reduction of the testing procedure and optimization of the fabrication process, because every joint could be examined. This would lead to a reduced number of spot welded joints, as redundancies could be avoided. In the procedure described here, the spot welded joint between two zinc-coated steel sheets (HX340LAD+Z100MB or HC340LA+ZE 50/50) is heated optically on one side. Laser radiation and flash light are used as heat sources. The melted zone, the so called "weld nugget" provides the mechanical stability of the connection, but also constitutes a thermal bridge between the sheets. Due to the better thermal contact, the spot welded joint reveals a thermal behavior different from the surrounding material, where the heat transfer between the two sheets is much lower. The difference in the transient thermal behavior is measured with time resolved thermography. Hence, the size of the thermal contact between the two sheets is determined, which is directly correlated to the size of the weld nugget, indicating the quality of the spot weld. The method performs well in transmission with laser radiation and flash light. With laser radiation, it works even in reflection geometry, thus offering the possibility of testing with just one-sided accessibility. By using heating with collimated laser radiation, not only contact-free, but also remote testing is feasible. A further convenience compared to similar thermographic approaches is the applicability on bare steel sheets without any optical coating for emissivity correction. For this purpose, a proper way of emissivity correction was established.

IA Channels Encoded by Kv1.4 and Kv4.2 Regulate Circadian Period of PER2 Expression in the Suprachiasmatic Nucleus.

PubMed

Granados-Fuentes, Daniel; Hermanstyne, Tracey O; Carrasquillo, Yarimar; Nerbonne, Jeanne M; Herzog, Erik D

2015-10-01

Neurons in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), the master circadian pacemaker in mammals, display daily rhythms in electrical activity with more depolarized resting potentials and higher firing rates during the day than at night. Although these daily variations in the electrical properties of SCN neurons are required for circadian rhythms in physiology and behavior, the mechanisms linking changes in neuronal excitability to the molecular clock are not known. Recently, we reported that mice deficient for either Kcna4 (Kv1.4(-/-)) or Kcnd2 (Kv4.2(-/-); but not Kcnd3, Kv4.3(-/-)), voltage-gated K(+) (Kv) channel pore-forming subunits that encode subthreshold, rapidly activating, and inactivating K(+) currents (IA), have shortened (0.5 h) circadian periods in SCN firing and in locomotor activity compared with wild-type (WT) mice. In the experiments here, we used a mouse (Per2(Luc)) line engineered with a bioluminescent reporter construct, PERIOD2::LUCIFERASE (PER2::LUC), replacing the endogenous Per2 locus, to test the hypothesis that the loss of Kv1.4- or Kv4.2-encoded IA channels also modifies circadian rhythms in the expression of the clock protein PERIOD2 (PER2). We found that SCN explants from Kv1.4(-/-)Per2(Luc) and Kv4.2(-/-) Per2(Luc), but not Kv4.3(-/-)Per2(Luc), mice have significantly shorter (by approximately 0.5 h) circadian periods in PER2 rhythms, compared with explants from Per2(Luc) mice, revealing that the membrane properties of SCN neurons feedback to regulate clock (PER2) expression. The combined loss of both Kv1.4- and Kv4.2-encoded IA channels in Kv1.4(-/-)/Kv4.2(-/-)Per2(Luc) SCN explants did not result in any further alterations in PER2 rhythms. Interestingly, however, mice lacking both Kv1.4 and Kv4.2 show a striking (approximately 1.8 h) advance in their daily activity onset in a light cycle compared with WT mice, suggesting additional roles for Kv1.4- and Kv4.2-encoded IA channels in controlling the light-dependent responses of neurons within

Skin welding using pulsed laser radiation and a dye

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fried, Nathaniel M.; Walsh, Joseph T., Jr.

1998-07-01

Previous skin welding studies have used continuous wave (CW) delivery of radiation. However, heat diffusion during irradiation prevents strong welds from being achieved without creating large zones of thermal damage to surrounding tissue. This damage may prevent normal wound healing. Strong welds and minimal thermal damage can be achieved by introducing a dye and delivering the radiation in a pulsed mode. Two-cm-long, full-thickness incisions were made in guinea pig skin. India ink was used as an absorber, and egg white albumin was used as an adhesive. A 5-mm-diameter spot of CW, 1.06-micrometer Nd:YAG laser radiation was scanned over the weld site, producing 100 millisecond pulses. The cooling time between scans and number of scans was varied. Thermal damage zones were measured using a transmission polarizing microscope to identify birefringence changes in tissue. Tensile strengths were measured using a tensiometer. For pulsed welding and long cooling times, weld strengths of 2.4 kg/cm2 were measured, and thermal damage to the epidermis was limited to approximately 500 micrometers. With CW welding, comparable weld strengths resulted in approximately 2700 micrometer of thermal damage. CW laser radiation weld strengths were only 0.6 kg/cm2 when thermal damage in the epidermis was limited to approximately 500 micrometers.

Conserved Kv4 N-terminal domain critical for effects of Kv channel-interacting protein 2.2 on channel expression and gating.

PubMed

Bähring, R; Dannenberg, J; Peters, H C; Leicher, T; Pongs, O; Isbrandt, D

2001-06-29

Association of Kv channel-interacting proteins (KChIPs) with Kv4 channels leads to modulation of these A-type potassium channels (An, W. F., Bowlby, M. R., Betty, M., Cao, J., Ling, H. P., Mendoza, G., Hinson, J. W., Mattsson, K. I., Strassle, B. W., Trimmer, J. S., and Rhodes, K. J. (2000) Nature 403, 553-556). We cloned a KChIP2 splice variant (KChIP2.2) from human ventricle. In comparison with KChIP2.1, coexpression of KChIP2.2 with human Kv4 channels in mammalian cells slowed the onset of Kv4 current inactivation (2-3-fold), accelerated the recovery from inactivation (5-7-fold), and shifted Kv4 steady-state inactivation curves by 8-29 mV to more positive potentials. The features of Kv4.2/KChIP2.2 currents closely resemble those of cardiac rapidly inactivating transient outward currents. KChIP2.2 stimulated the Kv4 current density in Chinese hamster ovary cells by approximately 55-fold. This correlated with a redistribution of immunoreactivity from perinuclear areas to the plasma membrane. Increased Kv4 cell-surface expression and current density were also obtained in the absence of KChIP2.2 when the highly conserved proximal Kv4 N terminus was deleted. The same domain is required for association of KChIP2.2 with Kv4 alpha-subunits. We propose that an efficient transport of Kv4 channels to the cell surface depends on KChIP binding to the Kv4 N-terminal domain. Our data suggest that the binding is necessary, but not sufficient, for the functional activity of KChIPs.

Effects of haloperidol on Kv4.3 potassium channels.

PubMed

Lee, Hong Joon; Sung, Ki-Wug; Hahn, Sang June

2014-10-05

Haloperidol is commonly used in clinical practice to treat acute and chronic psychosis, but it also has been associated with adverse cardiovascular events. We investigated the effects of haloperidol on Kv4.3 currents stably expressed in CHO cells using a whole-cell patch-clamp technique. Haloperidol did not significantly inhibit the peak amplitude of Kv4.3, but accelerated the decay rate of inactivation of Kv4.3 in a concentration-dependent manner. Thus, the effects of haloperidol on Kv4.3 were estimated from the integral of the Kv4.3 currents during the depolarization pulse. The Kv4.3 was decreased by haloperidol in a concentration-dependent manner with an IC50 value of 3.6 μM. Haloperidol accelerated the decay rate of Kv4.3 inactivation and activation kinetics in a concentration-dependent manner, thereby decreasing the time-to-peak. Haloperidol shifted the voltage dependence of the steady-state activation and inactivation of Kv4.3 in a hyperpolarizing direction. Haloperidol also caused an acceleration of the closed-state inactivation of Kv4.3. Haloperidol produced a use-dependent block of Kv4.3, which was accompanied by a slowing of recovery from the inactivation of Kv4.3. These results suggest that haloperidol blocks Kv4.3 by both interacting with the open state of Kv4.3 channels during depolarization and accelerating the closed-state inactivation at subthreshold membrane potentials. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Decreasing biotoxicity of fume particles produced in welding process.

PubMed

Yu, Kuei-Min; Topham, Nathan; Wang, Jun; Kalivoda, Mark; Tseng, Yiider; Wu, Chang-Yu; Lee, Wen-Jhy; Cho, Kuk

2011-01-30

Welding fumes contain heavy metals, such as chromium, manganese, and nickel, which cause respiratory diseases and cancer. In this study, a SiO(2) precursor was evaluated as an additive to the shielding gas in an arc welding process to reduce the biotoxicity caused by welding fume particles. Transmission electron micrographic images show that SiO(2) coats on the surface of welding fume particles and promotes particle agglomeration. Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy further shows that the relative amount of silicon in these SiO(2)-coated agglomerates is higher than in baseline agglomerates. In addition, Escherichia coli (E. coli) exposed to different concentrations of pure SiO(2) particles generated from the arc welding process exhibits similar responses, suggesting that SiO(2) does not contribute to welding fume particle toxicity. The trend of E. coli growth in different concentrations of baseline welding fume particle shows the most significant inhibition occurs in higher exposure concentrations. The 50% lethal logarithmic concentrations for E. coli in arc welding particles of baseline, 2%, and 4.2% SiO(2) precursor additives were 823, 1605, and 1800 mg/L, respectively. Taken together, these results suggest that using SiO(2) precursors as an additive to arc welding shielding gas can effectively reduce the biotoxicity of welding fume. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Solid-State Fault Current Limiter Development : Design and Testing Update of a 15kV SSCL Power Stack

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Dr. Ram Adapa; Mr. Dante Piccone

2012-04-30

ABSTRACT The Solid-State Fault Current Limiter (SSCL) is a promising technology that can be applied to utility power delivery systems to address the problem of increasing fault currents associated with load growth. As demand continues to grow, more power is added to utility system either by increasing generator capacity or by adding distributed generators, resulting in higher available fault currents, often beyond the capabilities of the present infrastructure. The SSCL is power-electronics based equipment designed to work with the present utility system to address this problem. The SSCL monitors the line current and dynamically inserts additional impedance into the linemore » in the event of a fault being detected. The SSCL is based on a modular design and can be configured for 5kV through 69kV systems at nominal current ratings of 1000A to 4000A. Results and Findings This report provides the final test results on the development of 15kV class SSCL single phase power stack. The scope of work included the design of the modular standard building block sub-assemblies, the design and manufacture of the power stack and the testing of the power stack for the key functional tests of continuous current capability and fault current limiting action. Challenges and Objectives Solid-State Current Limiter technology impacts a wide spectrum of utility engineering and operating personnel. It addresses the problems associated with load growth both at Transmission and Distribution class networks. The design concept is pioneering in terms of developing the most efficient and compact power electronics equipment for utility use. The initial test results of the standard building blocks are promising. The independent laboratory tests of the power stack are promising. However the complete 3 phase system needs rigorous testing for performance and reliability. Applications, Values, and Use The SSCL is an intelligent power-electronics device which is modular in design and can provide

Soldadura (Welding). Spanish Translations for Welding.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hohhertz, Durwin

Thirty transparency masters with Spanish subtitles for key words are provided for a welding/general mechanical repair course. The transparency masters are on such topics as oxyacetylene welding; oxyacetylene welding equipment; welding safety; different types of welds; braze welding; cutting torches; cutting with a torch; protective equipment; arc…

Beam Splitter For Welding-Torch Vision System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gilbert, Jeffrey L.

1991-01-01

Compact welding torch equipped with along-the-torch vision system includes cubic beam splitter to direct preview light on weldment and to reflect light coming from welding scene for imaging. Beam splitter integral with torch; requires no external mounting brackets. Rugged and withstands vibrations and wide range of temperatures. Commercially available, reasonably priced, comes in variety of sizes and optical qualities with antireflection and interference-filter coatings on desired faces. Can provide 50 percent transmission and 50 percent reflection of incident light to exhibit minimal ghosting of image.

I(A) channels encoded by Kv1.4 and Kv4.2 regulate neuronal firing in the suprachiasmatic nucleus and circadian rhythms in locomotor activity.

PubMed

Granados-Fuentes, Daniel; Norris, Aaron J; Carrasquillo, Yarimar; Nerbonne, Jeanne M; Herzog, Erik D

2012-07-18

Neurons in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) display coordinated circadian changes in electrical activity that are critical for daily rhythms in physiology, metabolism, and behavior. SCN neurons depolarize spontaneously and fire repetitively during the day and hyperpolarize, drastically reducing firing rates, at night. To explore the hypothesis that rapidly activating and inactivating A-type (I(A)) voltage-gated K(+) (Kv) channels, which are also active at subthreshold membrane potentials, are critical regulators of the excitability of SCN neurons, we examined locomotor activity and SCN firing in mice lacking Kv1.4 (Kv1.4(-/-)), Kv4.2 (Kv4.2(-/-)), or Kv4.3 (Kv4.3(-/-)), the pore-forming (α) subunits of I(A) channels. Mice lacking either Kv1.4 or Kv4.2 α subunits have markedly shorter (0.5 h) periods of locomotor activity than wild-type (WT) mice. In vitro extracellular multi-electrode recordings revealed that Kv1.4(-/-) and Kv4.2(-/-) SCN neurons display circadian rhythms in repetitive firing, but with shorter periods (0.5 h) than WT cells. In contrast, the periods of wheel-running activity in Kv4.3(-/-) mice and firing in Kv4.3(-/-) SCN neurons were indistinguishable from WT animals and neurons. Quantitative real-time PCR revealed that the transcripts encoding all three Kv channel α subunits, Kv1.4, Kv4.2, and Kv4.3, are expressed constitutively throughout the day and night in the SCN. Together, these results demonstrate that Kv1.4- and Kv4.2-encoded I(A) channels regulate the intrinsic excitability of SCN neurons during the day and night and determine the period and amplitude of circadian rhythms in SCN neuron firing and locomotor behavior.

Wireless data transmission from inside electromagnetic fields.

PubMed

Huertas, José Ignacio; Barraza, Roberto; Echeverry, Julian Mauricio

2010-01-01

This paper describes analytical and experimental work developed to evaluate the effects of the electromagnetic fields produced by high-voltage lines (400 kV) on wireless data transmission at the 900MHz band. In this work the source of the data transmission is located inside the electromagnetic field and the reception station is located at different distances from the power lines. Different atmospheric conditions are considered.

Tungsten anode spectral model using interpolating cubic splines: unfiltered x-ray spectra from 20 kV to 640 kV.

PubMed

Hernandez, Andrew M; Boone, John M

2014-04-01

Monte Carlo methods were used to generate lightly filtered high resolution x-ray spectra spanning from 20 kV to 640 kV. X-ray spectra were simulated for a conventional tungsten anode. The Monte Carlo N-Particle eXtended radiation transport code (MCNPX 2.6.0) was used to produce 35 spectra over the tube potential range from 20 kV to 640 kV, and cubic spline interpolation procedures were used to create piecewise polynomials characterizing the photon fluence per energy bin as a function of x-ray tube potential. Using these basis spectra and the cubic spline interpolation, 621 spectra were generated at 1 kV intervals from 20 to 640 kV. The tungsten anode spectral model using interpolating cubic splines (TASMICS) produces minimally filtered (0.8 mm Be) x-ray spectra with 1 keV energy resolution. The TASMICS spectra were compared mathematically with other, previously reported spectra. Using pairedt-test analyses, no statistically significant difference (i.e., p > 0.05) was observed between compared spectra over energy bins above 1% of peak bremsstrahlung fluence. For all energy bins, the correlation of determination (R(2)) demonstrated good correlation for all spectral comparisons. The mean overall difference (MOD) and mean absolute difference (MAD) were computed over energy bins (above 1% of peak bremsstrahlung fluence) and over all the kV permutations compared. MOD and MAD comparisons with previously reported spectra were 2.7% and 9.7%, respectively (TASMIP), 0.1% and 12.0%, respectively [R. Birch and M. Marshall, "Computation of bremsstrahlung x-ray spectra and comparison with spectra measured with a Ge(Li) detector," Phys. Med. Biol. 24, 505-517 (1979)], 0.4% and 8.1%, respectively (Poludniowski), and 0.4% and 8.1%, respectively (AAPM TG 195). The effective energy of TASMICS spectra with 2.5 mm of added Al filtration ranged from 17 keV (at 20 kV) to 138 keV (at 640 kV); with 0.2 mm of added Cu filtration the effective energy was 9 keV at 20 kV and 169 keV at 640 kV

Tungsten anode spectral model using interpolating cubic splines: Unfiltered x-ray spectra from 20 kV to 640 kV

PubMed Central

Hernandez, Andrew M.; Boone, John M.

2014-01-01

Purpose: Monte Carlo methods were used to generate lightly filtered high resolution x-ray spectra spanning from 20 kV to 640 kV. Methods: X-ray spectra were simulated for a conventional tungsten anode. The Monte Carlo N-Particle eXtended radiation transport code (MCNPX 2.6.0) was used to produce 35 spectra over the tube potential range from 20 kV to 640 kV, and cubic spline interpolation procedures were used to create piecewise polynomials characterizing the photon fluence per energy bin as a function of x-ray tube potential. Using these basis spectra and the cubic spline interpolation, 621 spectra were generated at 1 kV intervals from 20 to 640 kV. The tungsten anode spectral model using interpolating cubic splines (TASMICS) produces minimally filtered (0.8 mm Be) x-ray spectra with 1 keV energy resolution. The TASMICS spectra were compared mathematically with other, previously reported spectra. Results: Using paired t-test analyses, no statistically significant difference (i.e., p > 0.05) was observed between compared spectra over energy bins above 1% of peak bremsstrahlung fluence. For all energy bins, the correlation of determination (R2) demonstrated good correlation for all spectral comparisons. The mean overall difference (MOD) and mean absolute difference (MAD) were computed over energy bins (above 1% of peak bremsstrahlung fluence) and over all the kV permutations compared. MOD and MAD comparisons with previously reported spectra were 2.7% and 9.7%, respectively (TASMIP), 0.1% and 12.0%, respectively [R. Birch and M. Marshall, “Computation of bremsstrahlung x-ray spectra and comparison with spectra measured with a Ge(Li) detector,” Phys. Med. Biol. 24, 505–517 (1979)], 0.4% and 8.1%, respectively (Poludniowski), and 0.4% and 8.1%, respectively (AAPM TG 195). The effective energy of TASMICS spectra with 2.5 mm of added Al filtration ranged from 17 keV (at 20 kV) to 138 keV (at 640 kV); with 0.2 mm of added Cu filtration the effective energy was 9 ke

Tungsten anode spectral model using interpolating cubic splines: Unfiltered x-ray spectra from 20 kV to 640 kV

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hernandez, Andrew M.; Boone, John M., E-mail: john.boone@ucdmc.ucdavis.edu

Purpose: Monte Carlo methods were used to generate lightly filtered high resolution x-ray spectra spanning from 20 kV to 640 kV. Methods: X-ray spectra were simulated for a conventional tungsten anode. The Monte Carlo N-Particle eXtended radiation transport code (MCNPX 2.6.0) was used to produce 35 spectra over the tube potential range from 20 kV to 640 kV, and cubic spline interpolation procedures were used to create piecewise polynomials characterizing the photon fluence per energy bin as a function of x-ray tube potential. Using these basis spectra and the cubic spline interpolation, 621 spectra were generated at 1 kV intervalsmore » from 20 to 640 kV. The tungsten anode spectral model using interpolating cubic splines (TASMICS) produces minimally filtered (0.8 mm Be) x-ray spectra with 1 keV energy resolution. The TASMICS spectra were compared mathematically with other, previously reported spectra. Results: Using pairedt-test analyses, no statistically significant difference (i.e., p > 0.05) was observed between compared spectra over energy bins above 1% of peak bremsstrahlung fluence. For all energy bins, the correlation of determination (R{sup 2}) demonstrated good correlation for all spectral comparisons. The mean overall difference (MOD) and mean absolute difference (MAD) were computed over energy bins (above 1% of peak bremsstrahlung fluence) and over all the kV permutations compared. MOD and MAD comparisons with previously reported spectra were 2.7% and 9.7%, respectively (TASMIP), 0.1% and 12.0%, respectively [R. Birch and M. Marshall, “Computation of bremsstrahlung x-ray spectra and comparison with spectra measured with a Ge(Li) detector,” Phys. Med. Biol. 24, 505–517 (1979)], 0.4% and 8.1%, respectively (Poludniowski), and 0.4% and 8.1%, respectively (AAPM TG 195). The effective energy of TASMICS spectra with 2.5 mm of added Al filtration ranged from 17 keV (at 20 kV) to 138 keV (at 640 kV); with 0.2 mm of added Cu filtration the effective

Inactivation of the cloned potassium channel mouse Kv1.1 by the human Kv3.4 'ball' peptide and its chemical modification.

PubMed Central

Stephens, G J; Robertson, B

1995-01-01

1. This study used the whole-cell patch clamp technique to investigate the action of a 28-mer 'inactivation peptide' based on part of the N-terminal sequence of the human Kv3.4 K+ channel (hKv3.4 peptide) on the cloned mouse brain K+ channel mKv1.1 expressed in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells, and compared this with the inactivation produced by Shaker B inactivation peptide (ShB peptide). 2. Inclusion of the hKv3.4 peptide in the patch electrode (320 microM) transformed non-inactivating mKv1.1 into a rapidly inactivating current. The voltage dependence of time constants of decay and steady-state inactivation induced by hKv3.4 peptide were characteristic of an 'A-type' K+ current. 3. The hKv3.4 peptide had no effect on the voltage dependence of activation of mKv1.1, with a mid-point of activation of -8 mV, and a slope factor of 15 mV. Steady-state inactivation curves had a mid-point of inactivation of -36 mV and a slope factor of -7 mV; the time constant of recovery from inactivation at -90 mV was 1.3 s. 4. The chemical modification reagents N-bromoacetamide (NBA, 100 microM) and chloramine-T (CL-T, 500 microM) had no effect on the fast inactivation of mKv1.1 induced by ShB peptide. In contrast, the inactivation caused by hKv3.4 peptide was removed by brief exposure to NBA and CL-T. 5. Chemical modification resulted in a hyperpolarizing shift of -8 mV (CL-T) and -11 mV (NBA) in the voltage dependence of activation of mKv1.1 in the presence of hKv3.4 peptide. 6. Chemical modification was critically dependent on the presence of a cysteine residue at position 6, and not position 24, of hKv3.4 peptide. 7. NBA and CL-T caused only a slight inhibition of unmodified mKv1.1 current with no significant effect on the voltage dependence of mKv1.1 activation, and also had no effect on channel deactivation at -90 mV. 8. Chemical modification experiments were consistent with a selective action on the hKv3.4 peptide itself, specifically at the cysteine residue at position 6

A SIR/CAR Systems Analysis of the Longitudinal Changes in Little League Baseball Comparing Windsor with the Rest of Ontario and Canada.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zarebski, John; Moriarty, Dick

The trends and changes occurring in Windsor District 5 Little League Baseball between 1971 and 1978 were closely monitored in order for researchers to discern the results of Sports Institute for Research/Change Agent Research (SIR/CAR) intervention in these programs. Comparisons of the 1972, 1976, and 1978 studies reveal that the values focus of…

Mathematical Approach to Identification of Load Structure at the Nodes of the Distribution Grids 6-10 kV and 0.4 kV

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nizamutdinova, T.; Mukhlynin, N.

2017-06-01

A significant increasing energy efficiency of the full cycle of production, transmission and distribution of electricity in grids should be based on the management of separate consumers of electricity. The existing energy supply systems based on the concept of «smart things» do not allow to identify the technical structure of the electricity consumption in the load nodes from the grid side. It makes solving the tasks of energy efficiency more difficult. To solve this problem, the use of Wavelet transform to create a mathematical tool for monitoring the load composition in the nodes of the distribution grids of 6-10 kV, 0.4 kV is proposed in this paper. The authors have created a unique wavelet based functions for some consumers, based on their current consumption graphs of these power consumers. Possibility of determination of the characteristics of individual consumers of electricity in total nodal charts of load is shown in the test case. In future, creation of a unified technical and informational model of load control will allow to solve the problem of increasing the economic efficiency of not only certain consumers, but also the entire power supply system as a whole.

A Practical Study of the 66kV Fault Current Limiter (FCL) System with Rectifier

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tokuda, Noriaki; Matsubara, Yoshio; Yuguchi, Kyosuke; Ohkuma, Takeshi; Hobara, Natsuro; Takahashi, Yoshihisa

A fault current limiter (FCL) is extensively expected to suppress fault current, particularly required for trunk power systems heavily connected high-voltage transmission lines, such as 500kV class power system which constitutes the nucleus of the electric power system. By installing such FCL in the power system, the system interconnection is possible without the need to raise the capacity of the circuit breakers, and facilities can be configured for efficiency, among other benefits. For these reasons, fault current limiters based on various principles of operation have been developed both in Japan and abroad. In this paper, we have proposed a new type of FCL system, consisting of solid-state diodes, DC coil and bypass AC coil, and described the specification of distribution power system and 66kV model at the island power system and the superconducting cable power system. Also we have made a practical study of 66kV class, which is the testing items and the future subjects of the rectifier type FCL system.

Microstructure and Mechanical Characterization of Friction-Stir-Welded Dual-Phase Brass

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ramesh, R.; Dinaharan, I.; Akinlabi, E. T.; Murugan, N.

2018-03-01

Friction stir welding (FSW) is an ideal process to join brass to avoid the evaporation of zinc. In the present investigation, 6-mm-thick dual-phase brass plates were joined efficiently using FSW at various tool rotational speeds. The microstructures were studied using optical microscopy, electron backscattered diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. The optical micrographs revealed the evolution of various zones across the joint line. The microstructure of the heat-affected zone was similar to that of base metal. The weld zone exhibited finer grains due to dynamic recrystallization. The recrystallization was inhomogeneous and the inhomogeneity reduced with increased tool rotational speed. The dual phase was preserved in the weld zone due to the retention of zinc. The severe plastic deformation created a lot of dislocations in the weld zone. The weld zone was strengthened after welding. The role of tool rotational speed on the joint strength is further reported.

Community health profile of Windsor, Ontario, Canada: anatomy of a Great Lakes area of concern.

PubMed Central

Gilbertson, M; Brophy, J

2001-01-01

The rates of mortality, morbidity as hospitalizations, and congenital anomalies in the Windsor Area of Concern ranked among the highest of the 17 Areas of Concern on the Canadian side of the Great Lakes for selected end points that might be related to pollution in this relatively highly industrialized city. Mortality and morbidity rates from all causes were higher than in the rest of the province. Anomalously high rates of diseases included various cancers; endocrine, nutritional, metabolic, and immunity disorders; diseases of the blood and blood-forming organs, nervous system and sense organs, circulatory and respiratory systems, digestive system, genitourinary system, skin and subcutaneous tissue, musculoskeletal system and connective tissues; congenital anomalies, and infant mortality. Of particular concern was the early onset of the elevated rates of many of these diseases and conditions. Comparison of these incident rates with those in Hamilton, another industrial municipality in southern Ontario, suggested that in addition to a variety of local sources of industrial pollution from automobile manufacturing and use, transboundary air and water pollution from Detroit, Michigan, should be investigated as potentially important causes of these health outcomes in the Windsor Area of Concern. Some of the institutional and political trends of the past decade may need to be reversed before effective remedial programs are implemented for cleaning up contaminated sediments and for containment of leaking hazardous waste sites. This pilot project would seem to be a useful preliminary method of integrating human health concerns and of priority setting for the administration of the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement and the Canada-United States Air Quality Agreement. PMID:11744501

Duke of Windsor Visits the Lewis Flight Propulsion Research Laboratory

NASA Image and Video Library

1951-05-21

Edward Saxe-Coburg-Gotha, the Duke of Windsor, visits the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA) Lewis Flight Propulsion Laboratory in Cleveland, Ohio. He is seen in this photograph shaking hands with Associate Director Abe Silverstein. Lewis Director Ray Sharp is in the background. Cleveland mayor Thomas Burke and other local officials were also on hand to greet Edward. Silverstein led the group on a tour of Lewis’ new 8- by 6-Foot Supersonic Wind Tunnel where the Duke inquired about the operation of the facility’s flexible walls, the types of components tested, and the generation of airflow. The Duke was in town in 1951 to promote his new autobiography, A King’s Story, at the American Booksellers Convention. Edward had assumed the British throne in January 1936, only to renounce the position less than a year later to controversially marry Wallis Simpson. Ongoing concerns over the couple’s relationship to the German government resulted in his World War II assignment to the Bahamas. Edward spent the remainder of his life in France.

A Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy Method for Determining Manganese Composition in Welding Fume as a Function of Primary Particle Size

PubMed Central

Richman, Julie D.; Livi, Kenneth J.T.; Geyh, Alison S.

2011-01-01

Increasing evidence suggests that the physicochemical properties of inhaled nanoparticles influence the resulting toxicokinetics and toxicodynamics. This report presents a method using scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) to measure the Mn content throughout the primary particle size distribution of welding fume particle samples collected on filters for application in exposure and health research. Dark field images were collected to assess the primary particle size distribution and energy-dispersive X-ray and electron energy loss spectroscopy were performed for measurement of Mn composition as a function of primary particle size. A manual method incorporating imaging software was used to measure the primary particle diameter and to select an integration region for compositional analysis within primary particles throughout the size range. To explore the variation in the developed metric, the method was applied to 10 gas metal arc welding (GMAW) fume particle samples of mild steel that were collected under a variety of conditions. The range of Mn composition by particle size was −0.10 to 0.19 %/nm, where a positive estimate indicates greater relative abundance of Mn increasing with primary particle size and a negative estimate conversely indicates decreasing Mn content with size. However, the estimate was only statistically significant (p<0.05) in half of the samples (n=5), which all had a positive estimate. In the remaining samples, no significant trend was measured. Our findings indicate that the method is reproducible and that differences in the abundance of Mn by primary particle size among welding fume samples can be detected. PMID:21625364

A Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy Method for Determining Manganese Composition in Welding Fume as a Function of Primary Particle Size.

PubMed

Richman, Julie D; Livi, Kenneth J T; Geyh, Alison S

2011-06-01

Increasing evidence suggests that the physicochemical properties of inhaled nanoparticles influence the resulting toxicokinetics and toxicodynamics. This report presents a method using scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) to measure the Mn content throughout the primary particle size distribution of welding fume particle samples collected on filters for application in exposure and health research. Dark field images were collected to assess the primary particle size distribution and energy-dispersive X-ray and electron energy loss spectroscopy were performed for measurement of Mn composition as a function of primary particle size. A manual method incorporating imaging software was used to measure the primary particle diameter and to select an integration region for compositional analysis within primary particles throughout the size range. To explore the variation in the developed metric, the method was applied to 10 gas metal arc welding (GMAW) fume particle samples of mild steel that were collected under a variety of conditions. The range of Mn composition by particle size was -0.10 to 0.19 %/nm, where a positive estimate indicates greater relative abundance of Mn increasing with primary particle size and a negative estimate conversely indicates decreasing Mn content with size. However, the estimate was only statistically significant (p<0.05) in half of the samples (n=5), which all had a positive estimate. In the remaining samples, no significant trend was measured. Our findings indicate that the method is reproducible and that differences in the abundance of Mn by primary particle size among welding fume samples can be detected.

Friction Stir Weld System for Welding and Weld Repair

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ding, R. Jeffrey (Inventor); Romine, Peter L. (Inventor); Oelgoetz, Peter A. (Inventor)

2001-01-01

A friction stir weld system for welding and weld repair has a base foundation unit connected to a hydraulically controlled elevation platform and a hydraulically adjustable pin tool. The base foundation unit may be fixably connected to a horizontal surface or may be connected to a mobile support in order to provide mobility to the friction stir welding system. The elevation platform may be utilized to raise and lower the adjustable pin tool about a particular axis. Additional components which may be necessary for the friction stir welding process include back plate tooling, fixturing and/or a roller mechanism.

Postnatal development of A-type and Kv1- and Kv2-mediated potassium channel currents in neocortical pyramidal neurons

PubMed Central

Guan, Dongxu; Horton, Leslie R.; Armstrong, William E.

2011-01-01

Potassium channels regulate numerous aspects of neuronal excitability, and several voltage-gated K+ channel subunits have been identified in pyramidal neurons of rat neocortex. Previous studies have either considered the development of outward current as a whole or divided currents into transient, A-type and persistent, delayed rectifier components but did not differentiate between current components defined by α-subunit type. To facilitate comparisons of studies reporting K+ currents from animals of different ages and to understand the functional roles of specific current components, we characterized the postnatal development of identified Kv channel-mediated currents in pyramidal neurons from layers II/III from rat somatosensory cortex. Both the persistent/slowly inactivating and transient components of the total K+ current increased in density with postnatal age. We used specific pharmacological agents to test the relative contributions of putative Kv1- and Kv2-mediated currents (100 nM α-dendrotoxin and 600 nM stromatoxin, respectively). A combination of voltage protocol, pharmacology, and curve fitting was used to isolate the rapidly inactivating A-type current. We found that the density of all identified current components increased with postnatal age, approaching a plateau at 3–5 wk. We found no significant changes in the relative proportions or kinetics of any component between postnatal weeks 1 and 5, except that the activation time constant for A-type current was longer at 1 wk. The putative Kv2-mediated component was the largest at all ages. Immunocytochemistry indicated that protein expression for Kv4.2, Kv4.3, Kv1.4, and Kv2.1 increased between 1 wk and 4–5 wk of age. PMID:21451062

Postnatal development of A-type and Kv1- and Kv2-mediated potassium channel currents in neocortical pyramidal neurons.

PubMed

Guan, Dongxu; Horton, Leslie R; Armstrong, William E; Foehring, Robert C

2011-06-01

Potassium channels regulate numerous aspects of neuronal excitability, and several voltage-gated K(+) channel subunits have been identified in pyramidal neurons of rat neocortex. Previous studies have either considered the development of outward current as a whole or divided currents into transient, A-type and persistent, delayed rectifier components but did not differentiate between current components defined by α-subunit type. To facilitate comparisons of studies reporting K(+) currents from animals of different ages and to understand the functional roles of specific current components, we characterized the postnatal development of identified Kv channel-mediated currents in pyramidal neurons from layers II/III from rat somatosensory cortex. Both the persistent/slowly inactivating and transient components of the total K(+) current increased in density with postnatal age. We used specific pharmacological agents to test the relative contributions of putative Kv1- and Kv2-mediated currents (100 nM α-dendrotoxin and 600 nM stromatoxin, respectively). A combination of voltage protocol, pharmacology, and curve fitting was used to isolate the rapidly inactivating A-type current. We found that the density of all identified current components increased with postnatal age, approaching a plateau at 3-5 wk. We found no significant changes in the relative proportions or kinetics of any component between postnatal weeks 1 and 5, except that the activation time constant for A-type current was longer at 1 wk. The putative Kv2-mediated component was the largest at all ages. Immunocytochemistry indicated that protein expression for Kv4.2, Kv4.3, Kv1.4, and Kv2.1 increased between 1 wk and 4-5 wk of age.

Investigation of the Microstructure of Laser-Arc Hybrid Welded Boron Steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Son, Seungwoo; Lee, Young Ho; Choi, Dong-Won; Cho, Kuk-Rae; Shin, Seung Man; Lee, Youngseog; Kang, Seong-Hoon; Lee, Zonghoon

2018-05-01

The microstructure of boron steel for automotive driving shaft manufacturing after laser-arc hybrid welding was investigated. Laser-arc hybrid welding technology was applied to 3-mm-thick plates of boron steel, ST35MnB. The temperature distribution of the welding pool was analyzed using the finite element method, and the microstructure of the welded boron steel was characterized using optical microscopy and scanning and transmission electron microscopies. The microstructure of the weld joint was classified into the fusion zone, the heat-affected zone (HAZ), and the base material. At the fusion zone, the bainite grains exist in the martensite matrix and show directionality because of heat input from the welding. The HAZ is composed of smaller grains, and the hardness of the HAZ is greater than that of the fusion zone. We discuss that the measured grain size and the hardness of the HAZ originate from undissolved precipitates that retard the grain growth of austenite.

Kv7 (KCNQ) channel openers induce hypothermia in the mouse.

PubMed

Kristensen, Line V; Sandager-Nielsen, Karin; Hansen, Henrik H

2011-01-20

Kv7 channels, encoded by corresponding kcnq genes, are expressed both centrally and peripherally where they serve to dampen neuronal activity. While Kv7 channel openers have shown efficacy in neurological and neuropsychiatric disease models, the impact of Kv7 channel activation on physiological endpoint markers have not been addressed in detail. In this study we assessed the effect of a range of Kv7 channel openers with different affinity for neuronal Kv7.2-5 channel subunits on body temperature regulation in mice. Female NMRI mice were acutely exposed to vehicle (10% Tween-80, i.p.), retigabine (3-30 mg/kg, i.p., pan-Kv7 channel opener), (S)BMS-204352 (60-240 mg/kg, i.p., Kv7.4/5 channel-preferring opener), ICA-27243 (1-10mg/kg, i.p., Kv7.2/3 channel-preferring opener), or S-(1) (10-60 mg/kg, i.p., Kv7.2/3 channel-preferring opener), and rectal body temperature was measured 15-120 min post-injection. Retigabine (>10mg/kg), ICA-27243 (≥ 10 mg/kg), and S-(1) (≥ 30 mg/kg) dose-dependently lowered rectal body temperature with maximal doses of each Kv7 channel opener inducing a marked drop (>4°C) in rectal temperature. The Kv7 channel openers showed differential temporal pharmacodynamics, which likely reflects their different pharmacokinetic profiles. Pretreatment with the pan-Kv7 channel blocker XE-991 (1.0mg/kg, i.p.) completely reversed the hypothermic effect of the pan-Kv7 opener, retigabine (15 mg/kg), whereas ICA-27243-induced hypothermia (10mg/kg) could only be partially prevented by XE-991. Because ICA-27743 and S-(1) are Kv7.2/3 channel subunit-preferring compounds, this suggests that the Kv7.2/3 channel isoform is the predominant substrate for Kv7 channel opener-evoked hypothermia. These data indicate the physiological relevance of Kv7 channel function on body temperature regulation which may potentially reside from central inhibitory Kv7 channel activity. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Weld pool oscillation during pulsed GTA welding

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Aendenroomer, A.J.R.; Ouden, G. den

1996-12-31

This paper deals with weld pool oscillation during pulsed GTA welding and with the possibility to use this oscillation for in-process control of weld penetration. Welding experiments were carried out under different welding conditions. During welding the weld pool was triggered into oscillation by the normal welding pulses or by extra current pulses. The oscillation frequency was measured both during the pulse time and during the base time by analyzing the arc voltage variation using a Fast Fourier Transformation program. Optimal results are obtained when full penetration occurs during the pulse time and partial penetration during the base time. Undermore » these conditions elliptical overlapping spot welds are formed. In the case of full penetration the weld pool oscillates in a low frequency mode (membrane oscillation), whereas in the case of partial penetration the weld pool oscillates in a high frequency mode (surface oscillation). Deviation from the optimal welding conditions occurs when high frequency oscillation is observed during both pulse time and base time (underpenetration) or when low frequency oscillation is observed during both pulse time and base time (overpenetration). In line with these results a penetration sensing system with feedback control was designed, based on the criterion that optimal weld penetration is achieved when two peaks are observed in the frequency distribution. The feasibility of this sensing system for orbital tube welding was confirmed by the results of experiments carried out under various welding conditions.« less

Seam-weld quality of modern ERW/HFI line pipe

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Groeneveld, T.P.; Barnes, C.R.

1991-09-01

This study was undertaken to determine whether the seam-weld quality of modern ERW (electric resistance-welded)/HFI (high-frequency induction) welded pipe has been improved and justifies more widespread use of this type of pipe in critical applications. Wider use of ERW/HFI line pipe in gas-transmission lines would be expected to reduce construction costs. Five recently produced, heavy wall pipes fabricated using high-frequency electric-resistance welding (ERW) processes to make the seam weld and one pipe fabricated using the high-frequency induction (HFI) welding process to make the seam weld were studied. Four of the pipes were Grade X-60, one was Grade X-65, and onemore » was Grade X-70. All of the pipes were produced from microalloyed, controlled-rolled steels, and the weld zones were post-weld normalized. Ultrasonic inspection of the seam welds in the six pipe sections evaluated revealed no indications of defects. The tensile properties of all of the weld zones exceeded the minimum specified yield strengths for the respective grades of pipe and all of the pipes exhibited ductile failures either in the weld zone or in the base metal. Five of the six pipes exhibited ductile failures either in the weld zone or in the base metal. Five of the six pipes exhibited relatively low 85% shear area transition temperatures and relatively high upper-shelf energy absorptions as determined with Charpy V-notch specimens. In addition, for two of the three joints of pipe for which the properties were determined at both ends of the pipe, the tensile and impact properties showed little variation from end-to-end. However, for the other joint of pipe, the impact properties varied substantially from one end to the other.« less

[Modulation of Kv4 channels by KChIPs clamping].

PubMed

Cui, Yuan-Yuan; Wang, Ke-Wei

2009-01-01

The rapidly inactivating (A-type) potassium channels regulate membrane excitability that defines the fundamental mechanism of neuronal functions such as pain signaling. Cytosolic Kv channel-interacting proteins KChIPs co-assemble with Kv4 (Shal) alpha subunits to form a native complex. The specific binding of auxiliary KChIPs to the Kv4 N-terminus results in modulation of gating properties, surface expression and subunit assembly of Kv4 channels. Based on recent structural efforts, here we attempt to emphasize the interaction between KChIPs and Kv4 channel complex in which a single KChIP1 molecule laterally clamps two neighboring Kv4.3 N-termini in a 4:4 manner. Greater insights into molecular mechanism between KChIPs and Kv4 interaction may provide therapeutic potentials by structure-based design of chemical compounds aimed at disrupting the protein-protein interaction for treatment of membrane excitability-related disorders.

The phosphoinositide sensitivity of the KV channel family

PubMed Central

Kruse, Martin; Hille, Bertil

2013-01-01

Recently, we screened several KV channels for possible dependence on plasma membrane phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PI(4,5)P2). The channels were expressed in tsA-201 cells and the PI(4,5)P2 was depleted by several manipulations in whole-cell experiments with parallel measurements of channel activity. In contrast to reports on excised-patches using Xenopus laevis oocytes, we found only KV7, but none of the other tested KV channels, to be strongly dependent on PI(4,5)P2. We now have extended our study to KV1.2 channels, a KV channel we had not previously tested, because a new published study on excised patches showed regulation of the voltage-dependence of activation by PI(4,5)P2. In full agreement with those published results, we found a reduction of current amplitude by ~20% after depletion of PI(4,5)P2 and a small left shift in the activation curve of KV1.2 channels. We also found a small reduction of KV11.1 (hERG) currents that was not accompanied by a gating shift. In conclusion, our whole-cell methods yield a PI(4,5)P2-dependence of KV1.2 currents in tsA-201 cells that is comparable to findings from excised patches of Xenopus laevis oocytes. We discuss possible physiological rationales for PI(4,5)P2 sensitivity of some ion channels and insensitivity of others. PMID:23907203

The C-terminal HRET sequence of Kv1.3 regulates gating rather than targeting of Kv1.3 to the plasma membrane.

PubMed

Voros, Orsolya; Szilagyi, Orsolya; Balajthy, András; Somodi, Sándor; Panyi, Gyorgy; Hajdu, Péter

2018-04-12

Kv1.3 channels are expressed in several cell types including immune cells, such as T lymphocytes. The targeting of Kv1.3 to the plasma membrane is essential for T cell clonal expansion and assumed to be guided by the C-terminus of the channel. Using two point mutants of Kv1.3 with remarkably different features compared to the wild-type Kv1.3 (A413V and H399K having fast inactivation kinetics and tetraethylammonium-insensitivity, respectively) we showed that both Kv1.3 channel variants target to the membrane when the C-terminus was truncated right after the conserved HRET sequence and produce currents identical to those with a full-length C-terminus. The truncation before the HRET sequence (NOHRET channels) resulted in reduced membrane-targeting but non-functional phenotypes. NOHRET channels did not display gating currents, and coexpression with wild-type Kv1.3 did not rescue the NOHRET-A413V phenotype, no heteromeric current was observed. Interestingly, mutants of wild-type Kv1.3 lacking HRET(E) (deletion) or substituted with five alanines for the HRET(E) motif expressed current indistinguishable from the wild-type. These results demonstrate that the C-terminal region of Kv1.3 immediately proximal to the S6 helix is required for the activation gating and conduction, whereas the presence of the distal region of the C-terminus is not exclusively required for trafficking of Kv1.3 to the plasma membrane.

Lithium-assisted electrochemical welding in silicon nanowire battery electrodes.

PubMed

Karki, Khim; Epstein, Eric; Cho, Jeong-Hyun; Jia, Zheng; Li, Teng; Picraux, S Tom; Wang, Chunsheng; Cumings, John

2012-03-14

From in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observations, we present direct evidence of lithium-assisted welding between physically contacted silicon nanowires (SiNWs) induced by electrochemical lithiation and delithiation. This electrochemical weld between two SiNWs demonstrates facile transport of lithium ions and electrons across the interface. From our in situ observations, we estimate the shear strength of the welded region after delithiation to be approximately 200 MPa, indicating that a strong bond is formed at the junction of two SiNWs. This welding phenomenon could help address the issue of capacity fade in nanostructured silicon battery electrodes, which is typically caused by fracture and detachment of active materials from the current collector. The process could provide for more robust battery performance either through self-healing of fractured components that remain in contact or through the formation of a multiconnected network architecture. © 2012 American Chemical Society

Welding.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

South Carolina State Dept. of Education, Columbia. Office of Vocational Education.

This curriculum guide is designed for use by South Carolina vocational education teachers as a continuing set of lesson plans for a two-year course on welding. Covered in the individual sections of the guide are the following topics: an orientation to welding, oxyacetylene welding, advanced oxyacetylene welding, shielded metal arc welding, TIG…

Comparing Laser Welding Technologies with Friction Stir Welding for Production of Aluminum Tailor-Welded Blanks

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hovanski, Yuri; Carsley, John; Carlson, Blair

2014-01-15

A comparison of welding techniques was performed to determine the most effective method for producing aluminum tailor-welded blanks for high volume automotive applications. Aluminum sheet was joined with an emphasis on post weld formability, surface quality and weld speed. Comparative results from several laser based welding techniques along with friction stir welding are presented. The results of this study demonstrate a quantitative comparison of weld methodologies in preparing tailor-welded aluminum stampings for high volume production in the automotive industry. Evaluation of nearly a dozen welding variations ultimately led to down selecting a single process based on post-weld quality and performance.

2D-3D registration for cranial radiation therapy using a 3D kV CBCT and a single limited field-of-view 2D kV radiograph.

PubMed

Munbodh, Reshma; Knisely, Jonathan Ps; Jaffray, David A; Moseley, Douglas J

2018-05-01

We present and evaluate a fully automated 2D-3D intensity-based registration framework using a single limited field-of-view (FOV) 2D kV radiograph and a 3D kV CBCT for 3D estimation of patient setup errors during brain radiotherapy. We evaluated two similarity measures, the Pearson correlation coefficient on image intensity values (ICC) and maximum likelihood measure with Gaussian noise (MLG), derived from the statistics of transmission images. Pose determination experiments were conducted on 2D kV radiographs in the anterior-posterior (AP) and left lateral (LL) views and 3D kV CBCTs of an anthropomorphic head phantom. In order to minimize radiation exposure and exclude nonrigid structures from the registration, limited FOV 2D kV radiographs were employed. A spatial frequency band useful for the 2D-3D registration was identified from the bone-to-no-bone spectral ratio (BNBSR) of digitally reconstructed radiographs (DRRs) computed from the 3D kV planning CT of the phantom. The images being registered were filtered accordingly prior to computation of the similarity measures. We evaluated the registration accuracy achievable with a single 2D kV radiograph and with the registration results from the AP and LL views combined. We also compared the performance of the 2D-3D registration solutions proposed to that of a commercial 3D-3D registration algorithm, which used the entire skull for the registration. The ground truth was determined from markers affixed to the phantom and visible in the CBCT images. The accuracy of the 2D-3D registration solutions, as quantified by the root mean squared value of the target registration error (TRE) calculated over a radius of 3 cm for all poses tested, was ICC AP : 0.56 mm, MLG AP : 0.74 mm, ICC LL : 0.57 mm, MLG LL : 0.54 mm, ICC (AP and LL combined): 0.19 mm, and MLG (AP and LL combined): 0.21 mm. The accuracy of the 3D-3D registration algorithm was 0.27 mm. There was no significant difference in mean TRE for the 2D-3D registration

Transmission line component testing for the ITER Ion Cyclotron Heating and Current Drive System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goulding, Richard; Bell, G. L.; Deibele, C. E.; McCarthy, M. P.; Rasmussen, D. A.; Swain, D. W.; Barber, G. C.; Barbier, C. N.; Cambell, I. H.; Moon, R. L.; Pesavento, P. V.; Fredd, E.; Greenough, N.; Kung, C.

2014-10-01

High power RF testing is underway to evaluate transmission line components for the ITER Ion Cyclotron Heating and Current Drive System. The transmission line has a characteristic impedance Z0 = 50 Ω and a nominal outer diameter of 305 mm. It is specified to carry up to 6 MW at VSWR = 1.5 for 3600 s pulses, with transient voltages up to 40 kV. The transmission line is actively cooled, with turbulent gas flow (N2) used to transfer heat from the inner to outer conductor, which is water cooled. High voltage and high current testing of components has been performed using resonant lines generating steady state voltages of 35 kV and transient voltages up to 60 kV. A resonant ring, which has operated with circulating power of 6 MW for 1 hr pulses, is being used to test high power, low VSWR operation. Components tested to date include gas barriers, straight sections of various lengths, and 90 degree elbows. Designs tested include gas barriers fabricated from quartz and aluminum nitride, and transmission lines with quartz and alumina inner conductor supports. The latest results will be presented. This manuscript has been authored by UT-Battelle, LLC, under Contract No. DE-AC05-00OR22725 with the U.S. Department of Energy.

Plasma arc welding weld imaging

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rybicki, Daniel J. (Inventor); Mcgee, William F. (Inventor)

1994-01-01

A welding torch for plasma arc welding apparatus has a transparent shield cup disposed about the constricting nozzle, the cup including a small outwardly extending polished lip. A guide tube extends externally of the torch and has a free end adjacent to the lip. First and second optical fiber bundle assemblies are supported within the guide tube. Light from a strobe light is transmitted along one of the assemblies to the free end and through the lip onto the weld site. A lens is positioned in the guide tube adjacent to the second assembly and focuses images of the weld site onto the end of the fiber bundle of the second assembly and these images are transmitted along the second assembly to a video camera so that the weld site may be viewed continuously for monitoring the welding process.

Skeletal muscle Kv7 (KCNQ) channels in myoblast differentiation and proliferation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Roura-Ferrer, Meritxell; Sole, Laura; Martinez-Marmol, Ramon

Voltage-dependent K{sup +} channels (Kv) are involved in myocyte proliferation and differentiation by triggering changes in membrane potential and regulating cell volume. Since Kv7 channels may participate in these events, the purpose of this study was to investigate whether skeletal muscle Kv7.1 and Kv7.5 were involved during proliferation and myogenesis. Here we report that, while myotube formation did not regulate Kv7 channels, Kv7.5 was up-regulated during cell cycle progression. Although, Kv7.1 mRNA also increased during the G{sub 1}-phase, pharmacological evidence mainly involves Kv7.5 in myoblast growth. Our results indicate that the cell cycle-dependent expression of Kv7.5 is involved in skeletalmore » muscle cell proliferation.« less

Alternative splicing modulates Kv channel clustering through a molecular ball and chain mechanism

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zandany, Nitzan; Marciano, Shir; Magidovich, Elhanan; Frimerman, Teddy; Yehezkel, Rinat; Shem-Ad, Tzilhav; Lewin, Limor; Abdu, Uri; Orr, Irit; Yifrach, Ofer

2015-03-01

Ion channel clustering at the post-synaptic density serves a fundamental role in action potential generation and transmission. Here, we show that interaction between the Shaker Kv channel and the PSD-95 scaffold protein underlying channel clustering is modulated by the length of the intrinsically disordered C terminal channel tail. We further show that this tail functions as an entropic clock that times PSD-95 binding. We thus propose a ‘ball and chain’ mechanism to explain Kv channel binding to scaffold proteins, analogous to the mechanism describing channel fast inactivation. The physiological relevance of this mechanism is demonstrated in that alternative splicing of the Shaker channel gene to produce variants of distinct tail lengths resulted in differential channel cell surface expression levels and clustering metrics that correlate with differences in affinity of the variants for PSD-95. We suggest that modulating channel clustering by specific spatial-temporal spliced variant targeting serves a fundamental role in nervous system development and tuning.

Internal services simulation control in 220/110kV power transformer station Mintia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ciulica, D.; Rob, R.

2018-01-01

The main objectives in developing the electric transport and distribution networks infrastructure are satisfying the electric energy demand, ensuring the continuity of supply to customers, minimizing electricity losses in the transmission and distribution networks of public interest. This paper presents simulations in functioning of the internal services system 400/230 V ac in the 220/110 kV power transformer station Mintia. Using simulations in Visual Basic, the following premises are taken into consideration. All the ac consumers of the 220/110 kV power transformer station Mintia will be supplied by three 400/230 V transformers for internal services which can mutual reserve. In case of damaging at one transformer, the others are able to assume the entire consumption using automatic release of reserves. The simulation program studies three variants in which the continuity of supply to customers are ensured. As well, by simulations, all the functioning situations are analyzed in detail.

Implementation of Particle Swarm Optimization Method for Voltage Stability Analysis in 150 kV Sub System Grati – Paiton East Java

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kusumaningtyas, A. B.; Hidayat, M. N.; Ronilaya, F.

2018-04-01

Based on the data from State Electric Company on 15 January 2013, the undistributed power in the 150 kV sub system Grati-Paiton Region IV, that consist of 26 bus 150 kV and 2 bus generation 500 kV system, was recorded 3.286,00 MW. At the same time, the frequency of the system was down to 49 Hz. This lead to a deficit generation and unstable voltage condition in the system. Fast Voltage Stability Index (FVSI) method is used in this research to analyze the voltage stability of the buses. For buses with unstable voltage condition, reactive power will be injected through capacitor installation. The site where the capacitor will be installed is determined using the Fast Voltage Stability Index (FVSI) method while the size of the capacitor is determined using the Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) method. The PSO method has been applied in some researches, such as to determine optimal placement and sizing in radial distribution network as well as in transmission network.. In this research, the PSO method is used to find the Qloss of an interconnection transmission system, which in turn, the value of the Qloss is used to determine the capacitance of the capacitor needed by the system.

Solution structure and function of the "tandem inactivation domain" of the neuronal A-type potassium channel Kv1.4.

PubMed

Wissmann, Ralph; Bildl, Wolfgang; Oliver, Dominik; Beyermann, Michael; Kalbitzer, Hans-Robert; Bentrop, Detlef; Fakler, Bernd

2003-05-02

Cumulative inactivation of voltage-gated (Kv) K(+) channels shapes the presynaptic action potential and determines timing and strength of synaptic transmission. Kv1.4 channels exhibit rapid "ball-and-chain"-type inactivation gating. Different from all other Kvalpha subunits, Kv1.4 harbors two inactivation domains at its N terminus. Here we report the solution structure and function of this "tandem inactivation domain" using NMR spectroscopy and patch clamp recordings. Inactivation domain 1 (ID1, residues 1-38) consists of a flexible N terminus anchored at a 5-turn helix, whereas ID2 (residues 40-50) is a 2.5-turn helix made up of small hydrophobic amino acids. Functional analysis suggests that only ID1 may work as a pore-occluding ball domain, whereas ID2 most likely acts as a "docking domain" that attaches ID1 to the cytoplasmic face of the channel. Deletion of ID2 slows inactivation considerably and largely impairs cumulative inactivation. Together, the concerted action of ID1 and ID2 may promote rapid inactivation of Kv1.4 that is crucial for the channel function in short term plasticity.

76 FR 15970 - Central Ferry to Lower Monumental 500-kilovolt Transmission Line Project

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-03-22

...-kilovolt Transmission Line Project AGENCY: Bonneville Power Administration (BPA), Department of Energy (DOE... Project in Garfield, Columbia, and Walla Walla counties, Washington. BPA has decided to implement the... consists of constructing a new 500-kV single- circuit transmission line from BPA's new Central Ferry...

The Novel KV7.2/KV7.3 Channel Opener ICA-069673 Reveals Subtype-Specific Functional Roles in Guinea Pig Detrusor Smooth Muscle Excitability and Contractility

PubMed Central

Provence, Aaron; Malysz, John

2015-01-01

The physiologic roles of voltage-gated KV7 channel subtypes (KV7.1–KV7.5) in detrusor smooth muscle (DSM) are poorly understood. Here, we sought to elucidate the functional roles of KV7.2/KV7.3 channels in guinea pig DSM excitability and contractility using the novel KV7.2/KV7.3 channel activator ICA-069673 [N-(2-chloro-5-pyrimidinyl)-3,4-difluorobenzamide]. We employed a multilevel experimental approach using Western blot analysis, immunocytochemistry, isometric DSM tension recordings, fluorescence Ca2+ imaging, and perforated whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiology. Western blot experiments revealed the protein expression of KV7.2 and KV7.3 channel subunits in DSM tissue. In isolated DSM cells, immunocytochemistry with confocal microscopy further confirmed protein expression for KV7.2 and KV7.3 channel subunits, where they localize within the vicinity of the cell membrane. ICA-069673 inhibited spontaneous phasic, pharmacologically induced, and nerve-evoked contractions in DSM isolated strips in a concentration-dependent manner. The inhibitory effects of ICA-069673 on DSM spontaneous phasic and tonic contractions were abolished in the presence of the KV7 channel inhibitor XE991 [10,10-bis(4-pyridinylmethyl)-9(10H)-anthracenone dihydrochloride]. Under conditions of elevated extracellular K+ (60 mM), the effects of ICA-069673 on DSM tonic contractions were significantly attenuated. ICA-069673 decreased the global intracellular Ca2+ concentration in DSM cells, an effect blocked by the L-type Ca2+ channel inhibitor nifedipine. ICA-069673 hyperpolarized the membrane potential and inhibited spontaneous action potentials of isolated DSM cells, effects that were blocked in the presence of XE991. In conclusion, using the novel KV7.2/KV7.3 channel activator ICA-069673, this study provides strong evidence for a critical role for the KV7.2- and KV7.3-containing channels in DSM function at both cellular and tissue levels. PMID:26087697

The Novel KV7.2/KV7.3 Channel Opener ICA-069673 Reveals Subtype-Specific Functional Roles in Guinea Pig Detrusor Smooth Muscle Excitability and Contractility.

PubMed

Provence, Aaron; Malysz, John; Petkov, Georgi V

2015-09-01

The physiologic roles of voltage-gated KV7 channel subtypes (KV7.1-KV7.5) in detrusor smooth muscle (DSM) are poorly understood. Here, we sought to elucidate the functional roles of KV7.2/KV7.3 channels in guinea pig DSM excitability and contractility using the novel KV7.2/KV7.3 channel activator ICA-069673 [N-(2-chloro-5-pyrimidinyl)-3,4-difluorobenzamide]. We employed a multilevel experimental approach using Western blot analysis, immunocytochemistry, isometric DSM tension recordings, fluorescence Ca(2+) imaging, and perforated whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiology. Western blot experiments revealed the protein expression of KV7.2 and KV7.3 channel subunits in DSM tissue. In isolated DSM cells, immunocytochemistry with confocal microscopy further confirmed protein expression for KV7.2 and KV7.3 channel subunits, where they localize within the vicinity of the cell membrane. ICA-069673 inhibited spontaneous phasic, pharmacologically induced, and nerve-evoked contractions in DSM isolated strips in a concentration-dependent manner. The inhibitory effects of ICA-069673 on DSM spontaneous phasic and tonic contractions were abolished in the presence of the KV7 channel inhibitor XE991 [10,10-bis(4-pyridinylmethyl)-9(10H)-anthracenone dihydrochloride]. Under conditions of elevated extracellular K(+) (60 mM), the effects of ICA-069673 on DSM tonic contractions were significantly attenuated. ICA-069673 decreased the global intracellular Ca(2+) concentration in DSM cells, an effect blocked by the L-type Ca(2+) channel inhibitor nifedipine. ICA-069673 hyperpolarized the membrane potential and inhibited spontaneous action potentials of isolated DSM cells, effects that were blocked in the presence of XE991. In conclusion, using the novel KV7.2/KV7.3 channel activator ICA-069673, this study provides strong evidence for a critical role for the KV7.2- and KV7.3-containing channels in DSM function at both cellular and tissue levels. Copyright © 2015 by The American Society for

76 FR 379 - Notice of Intent To Prepare an Environmental Impact Statement for the TransWest Express 600 kV...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-01-04

... Management, Wyoming State Office, TransWest Express Transmission Project, P.O. Box 20678, 5353 Yellowstone... DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Bureau of Land Management DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Western Area Power... Intent To Prepare an Environmental Impact Statement for the TransWest Express 600 kV Direct Current...

Expression of A-type K channel alpha subunits Kv 4.2 and Kv 4.3 in rat spinal lamina II excitatory interneurons and colocalization with pain-modulating molecules.

PubMed

Huang, Hsin-Yi; Cheng, Jen-Kun; Shih, Yang-Hsin; Chen, Pei-Hsuan; Wang, Chin-Lin; Tsaur, Meei-Ling

2005-09-01

Voltage-gated K(+) channel alpha subunits Kv 4.2 and Kv 4.3 are the major contributors of somatodendritic A-type K(+) currents in many CNS neurons. A recent hypothesis suggests that Kv 4 subunits may be involved in pain modulation in dorsal horn neurons. However, whether Kv 4 subunits are expressed in dorsal horn neurons remains unknown. Using immunohistochemistry, we found that Kv 4.2 and Kv 4.3 immunoreactivity was concentrated in the superficial dorsal horn, mainly in lamina II. Both Kv 4.2 and Kv 4.3 appeared on many rostrocaudally orientated dendrites, whereas Kv 4.3 could be also detected from certain neuronal somata. Kv 4.3(+) neurons were a subset of excitatory inerneurons with calretinin(+)/calbindin(-)/PKCgamma(-) markers, and a fraction of them expressed micro-opioid receptors. Kv 4.3(+) neurons also expressed ERK 2 and mGluR 5, which are molecules related to the induction of central sensitization, a mechanism mediating nociceptive plasticity. Together with the expression of Kv 4.3 in VR 1(+) DRG neurons, our data suggest that Kv C4 subunits could be involved in pain modulation.

Keyhole behavior and liquid flow in molten pool during laser-arc hybrid welding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Naito, Yasuaki; Katayama, Seiji; Matsunawa, Akira

2003-03-01

Hybrid welding was carried out on Type 304 stainless steel plate under various conditions using YAG laser combined with TIG arc. During arc and laser-arc hybrid welding, arc voltage variation was measured, and arc plasma, laser-induced plume and evaporation spots as well as keyhole behavior and liquid flow in the molten pool were observed through CCD camera and X-ray real-time transmission apparatus. It was consequently found that hybrid welding possessed many features in comparison with YAG laser welding. The deepest weld bead could be produced when the YAG laser beam of high power density was shot on the molten pool made beforehand stably with TIG arc. A keyhole was long and narrow, and its behavior was rather stable inside the molten pool. It was also confirmed that porosity was reduced by the suppression of bubble formation in hybrid welding utilizing a laser of a moderate power density.

Microstructure of friction stir welded joints of 2017A aluminium alloy sheets.

PubMed

Mroczka, K; Dutkiewicz, J; Pietras, A

2010-03-01

The present study examines a friction stir welded 2017A aluminium alloy. Transmission electron microscope investigations of the weld nugget revealed the average grain size of 5 microm, moderate density of dislocations as well as the presence of nanometric precipitates located mostly in grains interiors. Scanning electron microscope observations of fractures showed the presence of ductile fracture in the region of the weld nugget with brittle precipitates in the lower part. The microhardness analysis performed on the cross-section of the joints showed fairly small changes; however, after the artificial ageing process an increase in hardness was observed. The change of the joint hardness subject to the ageing process indicates partial supersaturation in the material during friction stir welding and higher precipitation hardening of the joint.

Characteristics and molecular basis of celecoxib modulation on Kv7 potassium channels

PubMed Central

Du, XN; Zhang, X; Qi, JL; An, HL; Li, JW; Wan, YM; Fu, Y; Gao, HX; Gao, ZB; Zhan, Y; Zhang, HL

2011-01-01

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Celecoxib is a selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor used for the treatment of pain and inflammation. Emerging and accumulating evidence suggests that celecoxib can affect cellular targets other than COX, such as ion channels. In this study, we characterized the effects of celecoxib on Kv7 K+ channels and compared its effects with the well-established Kv7 channel opener retigabine. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH A perforated whole-cell patch technique was used to record Kv7currents expressed in HEK 293 cells and M-type currents from rat superior cervical ganglion neurons. KEY RESULTS Celecoxib enhanced Kv7.2–7.4, Kv7.2/7.3 and Kv7.3/7.5 currents but inhibited Kv7.1 and Kv7.1/KCNE1 currents and these effects were concentration dependent. The IC50 value for inhibition of Kv7.1 channels was approximately 4 µM and the EC50 values for activation of Kv7.2–7.4, Kv7.2/Kv7.3 and Kv7.3/Kv7.5 channels were approximately 2–5 µM. The effects of celecoxib were manifested by increasing current amplitudes, shifting the voltage-dependent activation curve in a more negative direction and slowing the deactivation of Kv7 currents. 2,5-Dimethyl-celecoxib, a celecoxib analogue devoid of COX inhibition activity, has similar but greater effects on Kv7currents. Kv7.2(A235T) and Kv7.2(W236L) mutant channels, which have greatly attenuated responses to retigabine, showed a reversed response to celecoxib, from activation to inhibition. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS These results suggest that Kv7 channels are targets of celecoxib action and provide new mechanistic evidence for understanding the effects of celecoxib. They also provide a new approach to developing Kv7 modulators and for studying the structure–function relationship of Kv7 channels. PMID:21564087

The Kv7 Channel and Cardiovascular Risk Factors.

PubMed

Fosmo, Andreas L; Skraastad, Øyvind B

2017-01-01

Potassium channels play a pivotal role in the regulation of excitability in cells such as neurons, cardiac myocytes, and vascular smooth muscle cells. The KCNQ (Kv7) family of voltage-activated K + channels hyperpolarizes the cell and stabilizes the membrane potential. Here, we outline how Kv7 channel activity may contribute to the development of the cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and obesity. Questions and hypotheses regarding previous and future research have been raised. Alterations in the Kv7 channel may contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Pharmacological modification of Kv7 channels may represent a possible treatment for CVD in the future.

The Kv7 Channel and Cardiovascular Risk Factors

PubMed Central

Fosmo, Andreas L.; Skraastad, Øyvind B.

2017-01-01

Potassium channels play a pivotal role in the regulation of excitability in cells such as neurons, cardiac myocytes, and vascular smooth muscle cells. The KCNQ (Kv7) family of voltage-activated K+ channels hyperpolarizes the cell and stabilizes the membrane potential. Here, we outline how Kv7 channel activity may contribute to the development of the cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and obesity. Questions and hypotheses regarding previous and future research have been raised. Alterations in the Kv7 channel may contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Pharmacological modification of Kv7 channels may represent a possible treatment for CVD in the future. PMID:29259974

Use of TCSR with Split Windings for Shortening the Spar Cycle Time in 500 kV Lines

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Matinyan, A. M., E-mail: al-drm@mail.ru; Peshkov, M. V.; Karpov, V. N.

The arc-fault recharge phenomenon in single-phase automatic reclosure (SPAR) of a line is examined. Abrief description is given of the design of a 500 kV thyristor controlled shunt reactor (TCSR) with split valve-side windings. This type of TCSR is shown to effectively quench a single-phase arc fault in a power transmission line and shortens the SPAR cycle time.

CHARACTERIZATION OF DEFECTS IN ALLOY 152, 52 AND 52M WELDS

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bruemmer, Stephen M.; Toloczko, Mychailo B.; Olszta, Matthew J.

2009-08-27

Defect distributions have been documented by optical metallography, scanning electron microscopy and electron backscatter diffraction in alloy 152 and 52 mockups welds, alloy 52 and 52M overlay mockups and an alloy 52M inlay. Primary defects were small cracks at grain boundaries except for more extensive cracking in the dilution zone of an alloy 52 overlay on 304SS. Detailed characterizations of the dilution zone cracks were performed by analytical transmission electron microscopy identifying grain boundary titanium-nitride precipitation associated with the intergranular separations. I. INTRODUCTION Weldments continue to be a primary location of stress-corrosion cracking (SCC) in light-water reactor systems. While problemsmore » related to heat-affected-zone (HAZ) sensitization and intergranular (IG) SCC of austenitic stainless alloys in boiling-water reactors (BWRs) have been significantly reduced, SCC has now been observed in HAZs of non-sensitized materials and in dissimilar metal welds where Ni-base alloy weld metals are used. IGSCC in weld metals has been observed in both BWRs and pressurized water reactors (PWRs) with recent examples for PWR pressure vessel penetrations producing the most concern. This has led to the replacement of alloy 600/182/82 welds with higher Cr, more corrosion-resistant replacement materials (alloy 690/152/52/52M). Complicating this issue has been a known susceptibility to cracking during welding [1-7] of these weld metals. There is a critical need for an improved understanding of the weld metal metallurgy and defect formation in Ni-base alloy welds to effectively assess long-term performance. A series of macroscopic to microscopic examinations were performed on available mockup welds made with alloy 52 or alloy 152 plus selected overlay and inlay mockups. The intent was to expand our understanding of weld metal structures in simulated LWR service components with a focus on as-welded defects. Microstructural features, defect

Modeling of the Weld Shape Development During the Autogenous Welding Process by Coupling Welding Arc with Weld Pool

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dong, Wenchao; Lu, Shanping; Li, Dianzhong; Li, Yiyi

2010-10-01

A numerical model of the welding arc is coupled to a model for the heat transfer and fluid flow in the weld pool of a SUS304 stainless steel during a moving GTA welding process. The described model avoids the use of the assumption of the empirical Gaussian boundary conditions, and at the same time, provides reliable boundary conditions to analyze the weld pool. Based on the two-dimensional axisymmetric numerical modeling of the argon arc, the heat flux to workpiece, the input current density, and the plasma drag stress are obtained. The arc temperature contours, the distributions of heat flux, and current density at the anode are in fair agreement with the reported experimental results. Numerical simulation and experimental studies to the weld pool development are carried out for a moving GTA welding on SUS304 stainless steel with different oxygen content from 30 to 220 ppm. The calculated result show that the oxygen can change the Marangoni convection from outward to inward direction on the liquid pool surface and make the wide shallow weld shape become narrow deep one. The calculated result for the weld shape and weld D/W ratio agrees well with the experimental one.

Modulation by clamping: Kv4 and KChIP interactions.

PubMed

Wang, Kewei

2008-10-01

The rapidly inactivating (A-type) potassium channels regulate membrane excitability that defines the fundamental mechanism of neuronal functions such as pain signaling. Cytosolic Kv channel-interacting proteins KChIPs that belong to neuronal calcium sensor (NCS) family of calcium binding EF-hand proteins co-assemble with Kv4 (Shal) alpha subunits to form a native complex that encodes major components of neuronal somatodendritic A-type K+ current, I(SA), in neurons and transient outward current, I(TO), in cardiac myocytes. The specific binding of auxiliary KChIPs to the Kv4 N-terminus results in modulation of gating properties, surface expression and subunit assembly of Kv4 channels. Here, I attempt to emphasize the interaction between KChIPs and Kv4 based on recent progress made in understanding the structure complex in which a single KChIP1 molecule laterally clamps two neighboring Kv4.3 N-termini in a 4:4 manner. Greater insights into molecular mechanism between KChIPs and Kv4 interaction may provide therapeutic potentials of designing compounds aimed at disrupting the protein-protein interaction for treatment of membrane excitability-related disorders.

Investigation on mechanical properties of welded material under different types of welding filler (shielded metal arc welding)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tahir, Abdullah Mohd; Lair, Noor Ajian Mohd; Wei, Foo Jun

2018-05-01

The Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) is (or the Stick welding) defined as a welding process, which melts and joins metals with an arc between a welding filler (electrode rod) and the workpieces. The main objective was to study the mechanical properties of welded metal under different types of welding fillers and current for SMAW. This project utilized the Design of Experiment (DOE) by adopting the Full Factorial Design. The independent variables were the types of welding filler and welding current, whereas the other welding parameters were fixed at the optimum value. The levels for types of welding filler were by the models of welding filler (E6013, E7016 and E7018) used and the levels for welding current were 80A and 90A. The responses were the mechanical properties of welded material, which include tensile strength and hardness. The experiment was analyzed using the two way ANOVA. The results prove that there are significant effects of welding filler types and current levels on the tensile strength and hardness of the welded metal. At the same time, the ANOVA results and interaction plot indicate that there are significant interactions between the welding filler types and the welding current on both the hardness and tensile strength of the welded metals, which has never been reported before. This project found that when the amount of heat input with increase, the mechanical properties such as tensile strength and hardness decrease. The optimum tensile strength for welded metal is produced by the welding filler E7016 and the optimum of hardness of welded metal is produced by the welding filler E7018 at welding current of 80A.

Self-Reacting Friction Stir Welding for Aluminum Alloy Circumferential Weld Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bjorkman, Gerry; Cantrell, Mark; Carter, Robert

2003-01-01

Friction stir welding is an innovative weld process that continues to grow in use, in the commercial, defense, and space sectors. It produces high quality and high strength welds in aluminum alloys. The process consists of a rotating weld pin tool that plasticizes material through friction. The plasticized material is welded by applying a high weld forge force through the weld pin tool against the material during pin tool rotation. The high weld forge force is reacted against an anvil and a stout tool structure. A variation of friction stir welding currently being evaluated is self-reacting friction stir welding. Self-reacting friction stir welding incorporates two opposing shoulders on the crown and root sides of the weld joint. In self-reacting friction stir welding, the weld forge force is reacted against the crown shoulder portion of the weld pin tool by the root shoulder. This eliminates the need for a stout tooling structure to react the high weld forge force required in the typical friction stir weld process. Therefore, the self-reacting feature reduces tooling requirements and, therefore, process implementation costs. This makes the process attractive for aluminum alloy circumferential weld applications. To evaluate the application of self-reacting friction stir welding for aluminum alloy circumferential welding, a feasibility study was performed. The study consisted of performing a fourteen-foot diameter aluminum alloy circumferential demonstration weld using typical fusion weld tooling. To accomplish the demonstration weld, weld and tack weld development were performed and fourteen-foot diameter rings were fabricated. Weld development consisted of weld pin tool selection and the generation of a process map and envelope. Tack weld development evaluated gas tungsten arc welding and friction stir welding for tack welding rings together for circumferential welding. As a result of the study, a successful circumferential demonstration weld was produced leading

Weld pool oscillation during GTA welding of mild steel

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Xiao, Y.H.; Ouden, G. den

1993-08-01

In this paper the results are reported of a study dealing with the oscillation behavior of weld pools in the case of GTA bead-on-plate welding of mild steel, Fe 360. During welding, the weld pool was brought into oscillation by applying short current pulses, and the oscillation frequency and amplitude were measured by monitoring the arc voltage. It was found that the oscillation of the partially penetrated weld pool is dominated by one of two different oscillation modes (Mode 1 and Mode 2) depending on the welding conditions, whereas the oscillation of the fully penetrated weld pool is characterized bymore » a third oscillation mode (Mode 3). It is possible to maintain partially penetrated weld pool oscillation in Mode 1 by choosing appropriate welding conditions. Under these conditions, an abrupt decrease in oscillation frequency occurs when the weld pool transfers from partial penetration to full penetration. Thus, weld penetration can be in-process controlled by monitoring the oscillation frequency during welding.« less

Bladder contractility is modulated by Kv7 channels in pig detrusor.

PubMed

Svalø, Julie; Bille, Michala; Parameswaran Theepakaran, Neeraja; Sheykhzade, Majid; Nordling, Jørgen; Bouchelouche, Pierre

2013-09-05

Kv7 channels are involved in smooth muscle relaxation, and accordingly we believe that they constitute potential targets for the treatment of overactive bladder syndrome. We have therefore used myography to examine the function of Kv7 channels in detrusor, i.e. pig bladder, with a view to determining the effects of the following potassium channel activators: ML213 (Kv7.2/Kv7.4 channels) and retigabine (Kv7.2-7.5 channels). Retigabine produced a concentration-dependent relaxation of carbachol- and electric field-induced contractions. The potency was similar in magnitude to that of ML213-induced relaxation, suggesting that Kv7.2 and/or Kv7.4 channels constitute the subtypes that are relevant to bladder contractility. The effects of retigabine and ML213 were attenuated by pre-incubation with 10µM XE991 (Kv7.1-7.5 channel blocker) (P<0.05), which in turn confirmed Kv7 channel selectivity. Subtype-selective effects were further investigated by incubating the detrusor with 10µM chromanol 293B (Kv7.1 channel blocker). Regardless of the experimental protocol, this did not cause a further increase in the evoked contraction. In contrast, the addition of XE991 potentiated the KCl-induced contractions, but not those induced by carbachol or electric field, indicating the presence of a phosphatidyl-inositol-4,5-biphosphate-dependent mechanism amongst the Kv7 channels in detrusor. qRT-PCR studies of the mRNA transcript level of Kv7.3-7.5 channels displayed a higher level of Kv7.4 transcript in detrusor compared to that present in brain cortex and heart tissues. Thus, we have shown that Kv7.4 channels are expressed and functionally active in pig detrusor, and that the use of selective Kv7.4 channel modulators in the treatment of detrusor overactivity seems promising. © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Enhancement of the Laser Transmission Weldability between Polyethylene and Polyoxymethylene by Plasma Surface Treatment

PubMed Central

Tan, Wensheng; Wang, Xiao

2017-01-01

Due to their large compatibility difference, polyethylene (PE) and polyoxymethylene (POM) cannot be welded together by laser transmission welding. In this study, PE and POM are pretreated using plasma that significantly enhances their laser transmission welding strength. To understand the mechanism underlying the laser welding strength enhancement, surface modification is analyzed using contact angle measurements, atomic force microscopy (AFM), optical microscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Characterization results show that the plasma surface treatment improves the surface free energy, significantly enhancing the wettability of the materials. The increase in surface roughness and the generation of homogeneous bubbles contribute to the formation of mechanical micro-interlocking. The oxygen-containing groups introduced by the oxygen plasma treatment improve the compatibility of PE and POM, and facilitate the diffusion and entanglement of molecular chains and the formation of van der Waals force. PMID:29278367

Enhancement of the Laser Transmission Weldability between Polyethylene and Polyoxymethylene by Plasma Surface Treatment.

PubMed

Liu, Huixia; Jiang, Yingjie; Tan, Wensheng; Wang, Xiao

2017-12-26

Due to their large compatibility difference, polyethylene (PE) and polyoxymethylene (POM) cannot be welded together by laser transmission welding. In this study, PE and POM are pretreated using plasma that significantly enhances their laser transmission welding strength. To understand the mechanism underlying the laser welding strength enhancement, surface modification is analyzed using contact angle measurements, atomic force microscopy (AFM), optical microscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Characterization results show that the plasma surface treatment improves the surface free energy, significantly enhancing the wettability of the materials. The increase in surface roughness and the generation of homogeneous bubbles contribute to the formation of mechanical micro-interlocking. The oxygen-containing groups introduced by the oxygen plasma treatment improve the compatibility of PE and POM, and facilitate the diffusion and entanglement of molecular chains and the formation of van der Waals force.

Scanning and transmission electron microscopy study of the microstructural changes occurring in aluminium matrix composites reinforced with SiC particles during casting and welding: interface reactions

PubMed

Urena; Gomez De Salazar JM; Gil; Escalera; Baldonedo

1999-11-01

Processing of aluminium matrix composites (AMCs), especially those constituted by a reactive system such as Al-SiC, presents great difficulties which limit their potential applications. The interface reactivity between SiC and molten Al generates an aluminium carbide which degrades the composite properties. Scanning and transmission electron microscopes equipped with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopes are essential tools for determining the structure and chemistry of the Al-SiC interfaces in AMCs and changes occurring during casting and arc welding. In the present work, an aluminium-copper alloy (AA2014) reinforced with three different percentages of SiC particles was subjected to controlled remelting tests, at temperatures in the range 750-900 degrees C for 10 and 30 min. Arc welding tests using a tungsten intert gas with power inputs in the range 850-2000 W were also carried out. The results of these studies showed that during remelting there is preferential SiC particle consumption with formation of Al4C3 by interface reaction between the solid SiC particle and the molten aluminium matrix. The formation of Al4C3 by the same mechanism has also been detected in molten pools of arc welded composites. However, in this case there was formation of an almost continuous layer of Al4C3, which protects the particle against further consumption, and formation of aciculate aluminium carbide on the top weld. Both are formed by fusion and dissolution of the SiC in molten aluminium followed by reaction and precipitation of the Al4C3 during cooling.

Adaptive weld control for high-integrity welding applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Powell, Bradley W.

1993-01-01

An advanced adaptive control weld system for high-integrity welding applications is presented. The system consists of a state-of-the-art weld control subsystem, motion control subsystem, and sensor subsystem which closes the loop on the process. The adaptive control subsystem (ACS), which is required to totally close the loop on weld process control, consists of a multiprocessor system, data acquisition hardware, and three welding sensors which provide measurements from all areas around the torch in real time. The ACS acquires all 'measurables' and feeds offset trims back into the weld control and motion control subsystems to modify the 'controllables' in order to maintain a previously defined weld quality.

The Natural Plant Product Rottlerin Activates Kv7.1/KCNE1 Channels.

PubMed

Matschke, Veronika; Piccini, Ilaria; Schubert, Janina; Wrobel, Eva; Lang, Florian; Matschke, Johann; Amedonu, Elsie; Meuth, Sven G; Strünker, Timo; Strutz-Seebohm, Nathalie; Greber, Boris; Scherkenbeck, Jürgen; Seebohm, Guiscard

2016-01-01

Acquired as well as inherited channelopathies are disorders that are caused by altered ion channel function. A family of channels whose malfunction is associated with different channelopathies is the Kv7 K+ channel family; and restoration of normal Kv7 channel function by small molecule modulators is a promising approach for treatment of these often fatal diseases. Here, we show the modulation of Kv7 channels by the natural compound Rottlerin heterologously expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes and on iPSC cardiomyocytes overexpressing Kv7.1 channels. We show that currents carried by Kv7.1 (EC50 = 1.48 μM), Kv7.1/KCNE1 (EC50 = 4.9 μM), and Kv7.4 (EC50 = 0.148 μM) are strongly enhanced by the compound, whereas Kv7.2, Kv7.2/Kv7.3, and Kv7.5 are not sensitive to Rottlerin. Studies on Kv7.1/KCNE1 mutants and in silico modelling indicate that Rottlerin binds to the R-L3-activator site. Rottlerin mediated activation of Kv7.1/KCNE1 channels might be a promising approach in long QT syndrome. As a proof of concept, we show that Rottlerin shortens cardiac repolarisation in iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes expressing Kv7.1. Rottlerin or an optimized derivative holds a potential as QT interval correcting drug. © 2016 The Author(s) Published by S. Karger AG, Basel.

Interfacial microstructure and properties of copper clad steel produced using friction stir welding versus gas metal arc welding

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Shen, Z.; Chen, Y.; Haghshenas, M., E-mail: mhaghshe@uwaterloo.ca

A preliminary study compares the feasibility and microstructures of pure copper claddings produced on a pressure vessel A516 Gr. 70 steel plate, using friction stir welding versus gas metal arc welding. A combination of optical and scanning electron microscopy is used to characterize the grain structures in both the copper cladding and heat affected zone in the steel near the fusion line. The friction stir welding technique produces copper cladding with a grain size of around 25 μm, and no evidence of liquid copper penetration into the steel. The gas metal arc welding of copper cladding exhibits grain sizes overmore » 1 mm, and with surface microcracks as well as penetration of liquid copper up to 50 μm into the steel substrate. Transmission electron microscopy reveals that metallurgical bonding is produced in both processes. Increased diffusion of Mn and Si into the copper cladding occurs when using gas metal arc welding, although some nano-pores were detected in the FSW joint interface. - Highlights: • Cladding of steel with pure copper is possible using either FSW or GMAW. • The FSW yielded a finer grain structure in the copper, with no evidence of cracking. • The FSW joint contains some evidence of nano-pores at the interface of the steel/copper. • Copper cladding by GMAW contained surface cracks attributed to high thermal stresses. • The steel adjacent to the fusion line maintained a hardness value below 248 HV.« less

One-step femtosecond laser welding and internal machining of three glass substrates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tan, Hua; Duan, Ji'an

2017-05-01

In this paper, it demonstrated one-step femtosecond laser welding and internal machining of three fused silica substrates in the optical- and non-optical-contact regimes by focusing 1030-nm laser pulses at the middle of the second substrate. Focusing laser pulses within the second glass in optical-contact and non-optical-contact samples induces permanent internal structural modification, leading to the three glass substrates bonding together simultaneously. The bonding mechanism is based on the internal modification of glass, and this mechanism is different from that of ordinary glass welding at the interface. Welding-spot size is affected by not only the gap distance (ablation effect) and heat transmission, but also by gravity through examining the sizes of the welding spots on the four contact welding surfaces. The maximum bonding strength of the lower interface (56.2 MPa) in the optical-contact regime is more than double that (27.6 MPa) in the non-optical-contact regime.

Weld Nugget Temperature Control in Thermal Stir Welding

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ding, R. Jeffrey (Inventor)

2014-01-01

A control system for a thermal stir welding system is provided. The control system includes a sensor and a controller. The sensor is coupled to the welding system's containment plate assembly and generates signals indicative of temperature of a region adjacent and parallel to the welding system's stir rod. The controller is coupled to the sensor and generates at least one control signal using the sensor signals indicative of temperature. The controller is also coupled to the welding system such that at least one of rotational speed of the stir rod, heat supplied by the welding system's induction heater, and feed speed of the welding system's weld material feeder are controlled based on the control signal(s).

Use-dependent activation of neuronal Kv1.2 channel complexes.

PubMed

Baronas, Victoria A; McGuinness, Brandon R; Brigidi, G Stefano; Gomm Kolisko, Rachel N; Vilin, Yury Y; Kim, Robin Y; Lynn, Francis C; Bamji, Shernaz X; Yang, Runying; Kurata, Harley T

2015-02-25

In excitable cells, ion channels are frequently challenged by repetitive stimuli, and their responses shape cellular behavior by regulating the duration and termination of bursts of action potentials. We have investigated the behavior of Shaker family voltage-gated potassium (Kv) channels subjected to repetitive stimuli, with a particular focus on Kv1.2. Genetic deletion of this subunit results in complete mortality within 2 weeks of birth in mice, highlighting a critical physiological role for Kv1.2. Kv1.2 channels exhibit a unique property described previously as "prepulse potentiation," in which activation by a depolarizing step facilitates activation in a subsequent pulse. In this study, we demonstrate that this property enables Kv1.2 channels to exhibit use-dependent activation during trains of very brief depolarizations. Also, Kv subunits usually assemble into heteromeric channels in the central nervous system, generating diversity of function and sensitivity to signaling mechanisms. We demonstrate that other Kv1 channel types do not exhibit use-dependent activation, but this property is conferred in heteromeric channel complexes containing even a single Kv1.2 subunit. This regulatory mechanism is observed in mammalian cell lines as well as primary cultures of hippocampal neurons. Our findings illustrate that use-dependent activation is a unique property of Kv1.2 that persists in heteromeric channel complexes and may influence function of hippocampal neurons. Copyright © 2015 the authors 0270-6474/15/353515-10$15.00/0.

Study of weld offset in longitudinally welded SSME HPFTP inlet

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Min, J. B.; Spanyer, K. S.; Brunair, R. M.

1992-01-01

Welded joints are an essential part of rocket engine structures such as the Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME) turbopumps. Defects produced in the welding process can be detrimental to weld performance. Recently, review of the SSME high pressure fuel turbopump (HPFTP) titanium inlet X-rays revealed several weld discrepancies such as penetrameter density issues, film processing discrepancies, weld width discrepancies, porosity, lack of fusion, and weld offsets. Currently, the sensitivity of welded structures to defects is of concern. From a fatigue standpoint, weld offset may have a serious effect since local yielding, in general, aggravates cyclic stress effects. Therefore, the weld offset issue is considered in this report. Using the FEM and beamlike plate approximations, parametric studies were conducted to determine the influence of weld offsets and a variation of weld widths in longitudinally welded cylindrical structures with equal wall thicknesses on both sides of the joint. Following the study, some conclusions are derived for the weld offsets.

Chemical composition and morphology of welding fume particles and grinding dusts.

PubMed

Karlsen, J T; Farrants, G; Torgrimsen, T; Reith, A

1992-05-01

Elemental composition and morphology of pure manual metal arc (MMA) welding fumes, pure grinding dust, and combined fume/dust air samples were collected and determined separately under semilaboratory conditions. The base material was stainless steel. The purpose of the present study was to create a "synthetic" work situation under semilaboratory conditions by combining one grinding period and two MMA welding periods and comparing these results with results during welding in a workshop. The duty cycles of pure welding and of pure grinding were also observed. A comparison was also made between metal inert gas (MIG) and MMA welding on stainless steel as well as a nickel-rich alloy under regular conditions. The amount of collected material was determined by weighing the membrane filters before and after exposure, and the element contents were determined by atomic spectroscopy. Other transmission electron microscopy (TEM) filters were used for TEM and computer-image analysis, in which the amount of collected material and its morphological characteristics were observed. The arcing time and the consumption of filler material were estimated for different kinds of electrodes. Chemical analysis showed that the contents of manganese and total chromium were lower in grinding dust than in welding fumes. The contents of hexavalent chromium, Cr(VI), in grinding dust were undetectable. Samples collected in welding shops where concomitant grinding was performed contained about 30% less Cr(VI) than those collected under laboratory conditions during welding only. The sizes and shapes of the particles depend on the welding process and distance of collection from the plume of the fume. To compare laboratory experiments with regular welding situations, the experiment must resemble industrial welding.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Kv10.1 potassium channel: from the brain to the tumors.

PubMed

Cázares-Ordoñez, V; Pardo, L A

2017-10-01

The KCNH1 gene encodes the Kv10.1 (Eag1) ion channel, a member of the EAG (ether-à-go-go) family of voltage-gated potassium channels. Recent studies have demonstrated that KCHN1 mutations are implicated in Temple-Baraitser and Zimmermann-Laband syndromes and other forms of developmental deficits that all present with mental retardation and epilepsy, suggesting that Kv10.1 might be important for cognitive development in humans. Although the Kv10.1 channel is mainly expressed in the mammalian brain, its ectopic expression occurs in 70% of human cancers. Cancer cells and tumors expressing Kv10.1 acquire selective advantages that favor cancer progression through molecular mechanisms that involve several cellular pathways, indicating that protein-protein interactions may be important for Kv10.1 influence in cell proliferation and tumorigenesis. Several studies on transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation of Kv10.1 expression have shown interesting mechanistic insights about Kv10.1 role in oncogenesis, increasing the importance of identifying the cellular factors that regulate Kv10.1 expression in tumors.

Rearrangement of potassium ions and Kv1.1/Kv1.2 potassium channels in regenerating axons following end-to-end neurorrhaphy: ionic images from TOF-SIMS.

PubMed

Liu, Chiung-Hui; Chang, Hung-Ming; Wu, Tsung-Huan; Chen, Li-You; Yang, Yin-Shuo; Tseng, To-Jung; Liao, Wen-Chieh

2017-10-01

The voltage-gated potassium channels Kv1.1 and Kv1.2 that cluster at juxtaparanodal (JXP) regions are essential in the regulation of nerve excitability and play a critical role in axonal conduction. When demyelination occurs, Kv1.1/Kv1.2 activity increases, suppressing the membrane potential nearly to the equilibrium potential of K + , which results in an axonal conduction blockade. The recovery of K + -dependent communication signals and proper clustering of Kv1.1/Kv1.2 channels at JXP regions may directly reflect nerve regeneration following peripheral nerve injury. However, little is known about potassium channel expression and its relationship with the dynamic potassium ion distribution at the node of Ranvier during the regenerative process of peripheral nerve injury (PNI). In the present study, end-to-end neurorrhaphy (EEN) was performed using an in vivo model of PNI. The distribution of K + at regenerating axons following EEN was detected by time-of-flight secondary-ion mass spectrometry. The specific localization and expression of Kv1.1/Kv1.2 channels were examined by confocal microscopy and western blotting. Our data showed that the re-establishment of K + distribution and intensity was correlated with the functional recovery of compound muscle action potential morphology in EEN rats. Furthermore, the re-clustering of Kv1.1/1.2 channels 1 and 3 months after EEN at the nodal region of the regenerating nerve corresponded to changes in the K + distribution. This study provided direct evidence of K + distribution in regenerating axons for the first time. We proposed that the Kv1.1/Kv1.2 channels re-clustered at the JXP regions of regenerating axons are essential for modulating the proper patterns of K + distribution in axons for maintaining membrane potential stability after EEN.

Welding/sealing glass-enclosed space in a vacuum

DOEpatents

Tracy, C.E.; Benson, D.K.

1996-02-06

A method of welding and sealing the edges of two juxtaposed glass sheets together to seal a vacuum space between the sheets comprises the steps of positioning a radiation absorbent material, such as FeO, VO{sub 2}, or NiO, between the radiation transmissive glass sheets adjacent the edges and then irradiating the absorbent material, preferably with a laser beam, through at least one of the glass sheets. Heat produced by the absorbed radiation in the absorbent material melts glass in the portions of both glass sheets that are adjacent the absorbent material, and the melted glass from both sheets flows together to create the weld when the melted glass cools and hardens. The absorbent material can be dissolved and diffused into the melted glass to the extent that it no longer absorbs enough energy to keep the glass melted, thus, with appropriate proportioning of absorbent material to source energy power and welding heat needed, the process can be made self-stopping. 8 figs.

Welding/sealing glass-enclosed space in a vacuum

DOEpatents

Tracy, C. Edwin; Benson, David K.

1996-01-01

A method of welding and sealing the edges of two juxtaposed glass sheets together to seal a vacuum space between the sheets comprises the steps of positioning a radiation absorbant material, such as FeO, VO.sub.2, or NiO, between the radiation transmissive glass sheets adjacent the edges and then irradiating the absorbant material, preferably with a laser beam, through at least one of the glass sheets. Heat produced by the absorbed radiation in the absorbant material melts glass in the portions of both glass sheets that are adjacent the absorbant material, and the melted glass from both sheets flows together to create the weld when the melted glass cools and hardens. The absorbant material can be dissolved and diffused into the melted glass to the extent that it no longer absorbs enough energy to keep the glass melted, thus, with appropriate proportioning of absorbant material to source energy power and welding heat needed, the process can be made self-stopping.

Computerized adaptive control weld skate with CCTV weld guidance project

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wall, W. A.

1976-01-01

This report summarizes progress of the automatic computerized weld skate development portion of the Computerized Weld Skate with Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) Arc Guidance Project. The main goal of the project is to develop an automatic welding skate demonstration model equipped with CCTV weld guidance. The three main goals of the overall project are to: (1) develop a demonstration model computerized weld skate system, (2) develop a demonstration model automatic CCTV guidance system, and (3) integrate the two systems into a demonstration model of computerized weld skate with CCTV weld guidance for welding contoured parts.

Friction welding.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moore, T. J.

1972-01-01

Results of an exploratory study of the structure and properties of friction welds in Udimet 700 (U-700) and TD-nickel (TD-Ni) bar materials, as well as dissimilar U-700/TD-Ni friction welds. Butt welds were prepared by friction welding 12.7-mm-diam U-700 bars and TD-Ni bars. Specimens for elevated temperature tensile and stress rupture testing were machined after a postweld heat treatment. Friction welding of U-700 shows great potential because the welds were found to be as strong as the parent metal in stress rupture and tensile tests at 760 and 980 C. In addition, the weld line was not detectable by metallographic examination after postheating. Friction welds in TD-Ni or between U-700 and TD-Ni were extremely weak at elevated temperatures. The TD-Ni friction welds could support only 9% as much stress as the base metal for 10-hour stress rupture life at 1090 C. The U-700/TD-Ni weld could sustain only 15% as much stress as the TD-Ni parent metal for a 10-hour stress rupture life at 930 C. Thus friction welding is not a suitable joining method for obtaining high-strength TD-Ni or U-700/TD-Ni weldments.

Investigation of dissimilar metal welds by energy-resolved neutron imaging

DOE PAGES

Tremsin, Anton S.; Ganguly, Supriyo; Meco, Sonia M.; ...

2016-06-09

A nondestructive study of the internal structure and compositional gradient of dissimilar metal-alloy welds through energy-resolved neutron imaging is described in this paper. The ability of neutrons to penetrate thick metal objects (up to several cm) provides a unique possibility to examine samples which are opaque to other conventional techniques. The presence of Bragg edges in the measured neutron transmission spectra can be used to characterize the internal residual strain within the samples and some microstructural features, e.g. texture within the grains, while neutron resonance absorption provides the possibility to map the degree of uniformity in mixing of the participatingmore » alloys and intermetallic formation within the welds. In addition, voids and other defects can be revealed by the variation of neutron attenuation across the samples. This paper demonstrates the potential of neutron energy-resolved imaging to measure all these characteristics simultaneously in a single experiment with sub-mm spatial resolution. Two dissimilar alloy welds are used in this study: Al autogenously laser welded to steel, and Ti gas metal arc welded (GMAW) to stainless steel using Cu as a filler alloy. The cold metal transfer variant of the GMAW process was used in joining the Ti to the stainless steel in order to minimize the heat input. The distributions of the lattice parameter and texture variation in these welds as well as the presence of voids and defects in the melt region are mapped across the welds. The depth of the thermal front in the Al–steel weld is clearly resolved and could be used to optimize the welding process. As a result, a highly textured structure is revealed in the Ti to stainless steel joint where copper was used as a filler wire. The limited diffusion of Ti into the weld region is also verified by the resonance absorption.« less

Investigation of dissimilar metal welds by energy-resolved neutron imaging.

PubMed

Tremsin, Anton S; Ganguly, Supriyo; Meco, Sonia M; Pardal, Goncalo R; Shinohara, Takenao; Feller, W Bruce

2016-08-01

A nondestructive study of the internal structure and compositional gradient of dissimilar metal-alloy welds through energy-resolved neutron imaging is described in this paper. The ability of neutrons to penetrate thick metal objects (up to several cm) provides a unique possibility to examine samples which are opaque to other conventional techniques. The presence of Bragg edges in the measured neutron transmission spectra can be used to characterize the internal residual strain within the samples and some microstructural features, e.g. texture within the grains, while neutron resonance absorption provides the possibility to map the degree of uniformity in mixing of the participating alloys and intermetallic formation within the welds. In addition, voids and other defects can be revealed by the variation of neutron attenuation across the samples. This paper demonstrates the potential of neutron energy-resolved imaging to measure all these characteristics simultaneously in a single experiment with sub-mm spatial resolution. Two dissimilar alloy welds are used in this study: Al autogenously laser welded to steel, and Ti gas metal arc welded (GMAW) to stainless steel using Cu as a filler alloy. The cold metal transfer variant of the GMAW process was used in joining the Ti to the stainless steel in order to minimize the heat input. The distributions of the lattice parameter and texture variation in these welds as well as the presence of voids and defects in the melt region are mapped across the welds. The depth of the thermal front in the Al-steel weld is clearly resolved and could be used to optimize the welding process. A highly textured structure is revealed in the Ti to stainless steel joint where copper was used as a filler wire. The limited diffusion of Ti into the weld region is also verified by the resonance absorption.

Investigation of dissimilar metal welds by energy-resolved neutron imaging

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Tremsin, Anton S.; Ganguly, Supriyo; Meco, Sonia M.

A nondestructive study of the internal structure and compositional gradient of dissimilar metal-alloy welds through energy-resolved neutron imaging is described in this paper. The ability of neutrons to penetrate thick metal objects (up to several cm) provides a unique possibility to examine samples which are opaque to other conventional techniques. The presence of Bragg edges in the measured neutron transmission spectra can be used to characterize the internal residual strain within the samples and some microstructural features, e.g. texture within the grains, while neutron resonance absorption provides the possibility to map the degree of uniformity in mixing of the participatingmore » alloys and intermetallic formation within the welds. In addition, voids and other defects can be revealed by the variation of neutron attenuation across the samples. This paper demonstrates the potential of neutron energy-resolved imaging to measure all these characteristics simultaneously in a single experiment with sub-mm spatial resolution. Two dissimilar alloy welds are used in this study: Al autogenously laser welded to steel, and Ti gas metal arc welded (GMAW) to stainless steel using Cu as a filler alloy. The cold metal transfer variant of the GMAW process was used in joining the Ti to the stainless steel in order to minimize the heat input. The distributions of the lattice parameter and texture variation in these welds as well as the presence of voids and defects in the melt region are mapped across the welds. The depth of the thermal front in the Al–steel weld is clearly resolved and could be used to optimize the welding process. As a result, a highly textured structure is revealed in the Ti to stainless steel joint where copper was used as a filler wire. The limited diffusion of Ti into the weld region is also verified by the resonance absorption.« less

Investigation of dissimilar metal welds by energy-resolved neutron imaging

PubMed Central

Tremsin, Anton S.; Ganguly, Supriyo; Meco, Sonia M.; Pardal, Goncalo R.; Shinohara, Takenao; Feller, W. Bruce

2016-01-01

A nondestructive study of the internal structure and compositional gradient of dissimilar metal-alloy welds through energy-resolved neutron imaging is described in this paper. The ability of neutrons to penetrate thick metal objects (up to several cm) provides a unique possibility to examine samples which are opaque to other conventional techniques. The presence of Bragg edges in the measured neutron transmission spectra can be used to characterize the internal residual strain within the samples and some microstructural features, e.g. texture within the grains, while neutron resonance absorption provides the possibility to map the degree of uniformity in mixing of the participating alloys and intermetallic formation within the welds. In addition, voids and other defects can be revealed by the variation of neutron attenuation across the samples. This paper demonstrates the potential of neutron energy-resolved imaging to measure all these characteristics simultaneously in a single experiment with sub-mm spatial resolution. Two dissimilar alloy welds are used in this study: Al autogenously laser welded to steel, and Ti gas metal arc welded (GMAW) to stainless steel using Cu as a filler alloy. The cold metal transfer variant of the GMAW process was used in joining the Ti to the stainless steel in order to minimize the heat input. The distributions of the lattice parameter and texture variation in these welds as well as the presence of voids and defects in the melt region are mapped across the welds. The depth of the thermal front in the Al–steel weld is clearly resolved and could be used to optimize the welding process. A highly textured structure is revealed in the Ti to stainless steel joint where copper was used as a filler wire. The limited diffusion of Ti into the weld region is also verified by the resonance absorption. PMID:27504075

Advanced Welding Concepts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ding, Robert J.

2010-01-01

Four advanced welding techniques and their use in NASA are briefly reviewed in this poster presentation. The welding techniques reviewed are: Solid State Welding, Friction Stir Welding (FSW), Thermal Stir Welding (TSW) and Ultrasonic Stir Welding.

Influence of low nickel (0.09 wt%) content on microstructure and toughness of P91 steel welds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arivazhagan, B.; Vasudevan, M.; Kamaraj, M.

2015-05-01

Modified 9Cr-1Mo (P91) steel is widely used as a high temperature structural material in the fabrication of power plant components. Alloying elements significantly influences the microstructure and mechanical properties of P91 steel weldments. The alloying elements manganese and nickel significantly influence the lower critical phase transformation temperature (AC1) as well as tempering response of welds. In the existing published information there was wide spread use of high Mn+Ni filler wire. In the present study, weldment preparation was completed using GTA filler wire having low Nickel content (Mn+Ni of 0.58 wt% including nickel content of 0.09 wt%). Microstructure and mechanical properties characterization was done. There is a requirement on minimum toughness of 47 Joules for P91 steel tempered welds at room temperature. Microstructural observation revealed that the GTA welds have low δ-ferrite content (<0.5%) in the martensite matrix. In the as-weld condition, the toughness was 28 Joules whereas after PWHT at 760 °C-2 h it was 115 Joules. In the present study, toughness of low nickel weld was higher due to low δ-ferrite content (<0.5%), multipass grain refinement and weld metal deposition of single pass per layer of weldment.

Kv7(KCNQ)-K+-Channels Influence Total Peripheral Resistance in Female but Not Male Rats, and Hamper Catecholamine Release in Hypertensive Rats of Both Sexes

PubMed Central

Berg, Torill

2018-01-01

K+-channels of the Kv7/KCNQ-family hyperpolarize and stabilize excitable cells such as autonomic neurons and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC). Kv7 may therefore play a role in blood pressure (BP) homeostasis, and prevent a high total peripheral vascular resistance (TPR), a hallmark of hypertensive disease. The present study analyzed if Kv7 channels influence catecholamine release and TPR in normotensive (WKY) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), and if they may contribute to the antihypertensive protection seen in young, female SHR. Tyramine-stimulated norepinephrine release evokes an adrenergic cardiovascular response, and also allows modulation of release to be reflected in the overflow to plasma. The experiment itself activated some secretion of epinephrine. The results show: (1) XE-991 (Kv7.1-7.4-inhibitor), but not chromanol 293B (Kv7.1-inhibitor), increased tyramine-stimulated norepinephrine overflow and epinephrine secretion in both sexes in SHR, but not WKY. (2) Surprisingly, the Kv7-openers retigabine (Kv7.2-7.5) and ICA-27243 (Kv7.2-7.3-preferring) increased catecholamine release in female SHR. (3) The rise in TPR following tyramine-stimulated norepinephrine release was increased by XE-991 but not chromanol in the female WKY only. (4) Retigabine and ICA-27243 reduced the TPR-response to tyramine in the female SHR only. These results suggested: (1) Up-regulation of Kv7.2-7.3 function in sympathetic neurons and chromaffin cells hampered catecholamine release in SHR of both sexes. (2) The increase catecholamine release observed after channel openers in the female SHR may possibly involve reduced transmission in cholinergic neurons which hamper catecholamine release. These two mechanisms may serve to counter-act the hyperadrenergic state in SHR. (3) Kv7.4, most likely in the vasculature, opposed the tension-response to norepinephrine in the female WKY. (4) Vascular Kv7.4-7.5 could be stimulated and then opposed norepinephrine-induced vasoconstriction

Kv7(KCNQ)-K+-Channels Influence Total Peripheral Resistance in Female but Not Male Rats, and Hamper Catecholamine Release in Hypertensive Rats of Both Sexes.

PubMed

Berg, Torill

2018-01-01

K + -channels of the Kv7/KCNQ-family hyperpolarize and stabilize excitable cells such as autonomic neurons and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC). Kv7 may therefore play a role in blood pressure (BP) homeostasis, and prevent a high total peripheral vascular resistance (TPR), a hallmark of hypertensive disease. The present study analyzed if Kv7 channels influence catecholamine release and TPR in normotensive (WKY) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), and if they may contribute to the antihypertensive protection seen in young, female SHR. Tyramine-stimulated norepinephrine release evokes an adrenergic cardiovascular response, and also allows modulation of release to be reflected in the overflow to plasma. The experiment itself activated some secretion of epinephrine. The results show: (1) XE-991 (Kv7.1-7.4-inhibitor), but not chromanol 293B (Kv7.1-inhibitor), increased tyramine-stimulated norepinephrine overflow and epinephrine secretion in both sexes in SHR, but not WKY. (2) Surprisingly, the Kv7-openers retigabine (Kv7.2-7.5) and ICA-27243 (Kv7.2-7.3-preferring) increased catecholamine release in female SHR. (3) The rise in TPR following tyramine-stimulated norepinephrine release was increased by XE-991 but not chromanol in the female WKY only. (4) Retigabine and ICA-27243 reduced the TPR-response to tyramine in the female SHR only. These results suggested: (1) Up-regulation of Kv7.2-7.3 function in sympathetic neurons and chromaffin cells hampered catecholamine release in SHR of both sexes. (2) The increase catecholamine release observed after channel openers in the female SHR may possibly involve reduced transmission in cholinergic neurons which hamper catecholamine release. These two mechanisms may serve to counter-act the hyperadrenergic state in SHR. (3) Kv7.4, most likely in the vasculature, opposed the tension-response to norepinephrine in the female WKY. (4) Vascular Kv7.4-7.5 could be stimulated and then opposed norepinephrine

β Subunits Functionally Differentiate Human Kv4.3 Potassium Channel Splice Variants

PubMed Central

Abbott, Geoffrey W.

2017-01-01

The human ventricular cardiomyocyte transient outward K+ current (Ito) mediates the initial phase of myocyte repolarization and its disruption is implicated in Brugada Syndrome and heart failure (HF). Human cardiac Ito is generated primarily by two Kv4.3 splice variants (Kv4.3L and Kv4.3S, diverging only by a C-terminal, S6-proximal, 19-residue stretch unique to Kv4.3L), which are differentially remodeled in HF, but considered functionally alike at baseline. Kv4.3 is regulated in human heart by β subunits including KChIP2b and KCNEs, but their effects were previously assumed to be Kv4.3 isoform-independent. Here, this assumption was tested experimentally using two-electrode voltage-clamp analysis of human subunits co-expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes. Unexpectedly, Kv4.3L-KChIP2b channels exhibited up to 8-fold lower current augmentation, 40% slower inactivation, and 5 mV-shifted steady-state inactivation compared to Kv4.3S-KChIP2b. A synthetic peptide mimicking the 19-residue stretch diminished these differences, reinforcing the importance of this segment in mediating Kv4.3 regulation by KChIP2b. KCNE subunits induced further functional divergence, including a 7-fold increase in Kv4.3S-KCNE4-KChIP2b current compared to Kv4.3L-KCNE4-KChIP2b. The discovery of β-subunit-dependent functional divergence in human Kv4.3 splice variants suggests a C-terminal signaling hub is crucial to governing β-subunit effects upon Kv4.3, and demonstrates the potential significance of differential Kv4.3 gene-splicing and β subunit expression in myocyte physiology and pathobiology. PMID:28228734

β Subunits Functionally Differentiate Human Kv4.3 Potassium Channel Splice Variants.

PubMed

Abbott, Geoffrey W

2017-01-01

The human ventricular cardiomyocyte transient outward K + current ( I to ) mediates the initial phase of myocyte repolarization and its disruption is implicated in Brugada Syndrome and heart failure (HF). Human cardiac I to is generated primarily by two Kv4.3 splice variants (Kv4.3L and Kv4.3S, diverging only by a C-terminal, S6-proximal, 19-residue stretch unique to Kv4.3L), which are differentially remodeled in HF, but considered functionally alike at baseline. Kv4.3 is regulated in human heart by β subunits including KChIP2b and KCNEs, but their effects were previously assumed to be Kv4.3 isoform-independent. Here, this assumption was tested experimentally using two-electrode voltage-clamp analysis of human subunits co-expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes. Unexpectedly, Kv4.3L-KChIP2b channels exhibited up to 8-fold lower current augmentation, 40% slower inactivation, and 5 mV-shifted steady-state inactivation compared to Kv4.3S-KChIP2b. A synthetic peptide mimicking the 19-residue stretch diminished these differences, reinforcing the importance of this segment in mediating Kv4.3 regulation by KChIP2b. KCNE subunits induced further functional divergence, including a 7-fold increase in Kv4.3S-KCNE4-KChIP2b current compared to Kv4.3L-KCNE4-KChIP2b. The discovery of β-subunit-dependent functional divergence in human Kv4.3 splice variants suggests a C-terminal signaling hub is crucial to governing β-subunit effects upon Kv4.3, and demonstrates the potential significance of differential Kv4.3 gene-splicing and β subunit expression in myocyte physiology and pathobiology.

Regulation of Kv2.1 K+ conductance by cell surface channel density

PubMed Central

Fox, Philip D.; Loftus, Rob J.; Tamkun, Michael M.

2013-01-01

The Kv2.1 voltage-gated K+ channel is found both freely diffusing over the plasma membrane and concentrated in micron-sized clusters localized to the soma, proximal dendrites and axon initial segment of hippocampal neurons. In transfected HEK cells, Kv2.1 channels within cluster microdomains are non-conducting. Using TIRF microscopy the number of GFP-tagged Kv2.1 channels on the HEK cell surface was compared to K+ channel conductance measured by whole-cell voltage-clamp of the same cell. This approach indicated that as channel density increases non-clustered channels cease conducting. At the highest density observed, only 4% of all channels were conducting. Mutant Kv2.1 channels that fail to cluster also possessed the non-conducting state with 17% conducting K+ at higher surface densities. The non-conducting state was specific to Kv2.1 as Kv1.4 was always conducting regardless of the cell-surface expression level. Anti-Kv2.1 immuno-fluorescence intensity, standardized to Kv2.1 surface density in transfected HEK cells, was used to determine the expression levels of endogenous Kv2.1 in cultured rat hippocampal neurons. Endogenous Kv2.1 levels were compared to the number of conducting channels determined by whole-cell voltage clamp. Only 13 and 27% of the endogenous Kv2.1 was conducting in neurons cultured for 14 and 20 days, respectively. Together these data indicate that the non-conducting state depends primarily on surface density as opposed to cluster location and that this non-conducting state also exists for native Kv2.1 found in cultured hippocampal neurons. This excess of Kv2.1 protein relative to K+ conductance further supports a non-conducting role for Kv2.1 in excitable tissues. PMID:23325261

Inhibition of Kv7/M Channel Currents by the Local Anesthetic Chloroprocaine.

PubMed

Zhang, Fan; Cheng, Yanxin; Li, Hong; Jia, Qingzhong; Zhang, Hailin; Zhao, Senming

2015-01-01

Chloroprocaine is a local ester anesthetic, producing excellent sensory block in clinical use. The Kv7/M potassium channel plays an important role in the control of neuronal excitability. In this study, we investigated the effects of the local anesthetic chloroprocaine on Kv7/M channels as well as the effect of retigabine on chloroprocaine-induced seizures. A perforated whole-cell patch technique was used to record Kv7 currents from HEK293 cells and M-type currents from rat dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons. Chloroprocaine produced a number of effects on Kv7.2/Kv7.3 currents, including a lowering of current amplitudes, a rightward shift in the voltage-dependent activation curves, and a slowing of channel activation. Chloroprocaine had a more selective inhibitory effect on the homomeric Kv7.3 and heteromeric Kv7.2/Kv7.3 channels than on the homomeric Kv7.2 channel. Chloroprocaine also inhibited native M channel currents and induced a depolarization of the DRG neuron membrane potential. Taken together, the findings indicate that chloroprocaine concentration dependently inhibited Kv7/M channel currents. © 2015 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Localization of A-type K+ channel subunit Kv4.2 in rat brain.

PubMed

Tsaur, M L; Wu, Y L; Huang, F L; Shih, Y H

2001-09-30

Kv4.2, a voltage-gated K+ (Kv) channel subunit, has been suggested to be the key component of the subthreshold A-type K+ currents (I(SA)s) recorded from the specific subcellular compartments of certain CNS neurons. To correlate Kv4.2 localization with the I(SA)s detected, immunohistochemistry will be useful. Although the Kv4.2 immunostaining pattern in the hippocampus and cerebellum has been reported, the Kv4.2 antibody used was not specific. Furthermore, Kv4.2 localization in other brain regions remains unclear. In this report, we first demonstrated the specificity of a new Kv4.2 antibody, and then used it to examine Kv4.2 localization throughout adult rat brain by immunohistochemistry. At the cellular level, Kv4.2 was found in neurons but not glias. At the subcellular level, Kv4.2 was localized in the somatodendritic compartment of most neurons examined. Nevertheless, our preliminary data indicated that Kv4.2 might be also present in the axon/terminal compartment. At the functional level, our data indicates that Kv4.2 localization and I(SA) correlate quite well in some CNS neurons, supporting that Kv4.2 is the key component of some I(SA)s recorded in vivo.

Friction plug welding

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Takeshita, Riki (Inventor); Hibbard, Terry L. (Inventor)

2001-01-01

Friction plug welding (FPW) usage is advantageous for friction stir welding (FSW) hole close-outs and weld repairs in 2195 Al--Cu--Li fusion or friction stir welds. Current fusion welding methods of Al--Cu--Li have produced welds containing varied defects. These areas are found by non-destructive examination both after welding and after proof testing. Current techniques for repairing typically small (<0.25) defects weaken the weldment, rely heavily on welders' skill, and are costly. Friction plug welding repairs increase strength, ductility and resistance to cracking over initial weld quality, without requiring much time or operator skill. Friction plug welding while pulling the plug is advantageous because all hardware for performing the weld can be placed on one side of the workpiece.

Windsor, Ontario exposure assessment study: design and methods validation of personal, indoor, and outdoor air pollution monitoring.

PubMed

Wheeler, Amanda J; Xu, Xiaohong; Kulka, Ryan; You, Hongyu; Wallace, Lance; Mallach, Gary; Van Ryswyk, Keith; MacNeill, Morgan; Kearney, Jill; Rasmussen, Pat E; Dabek-Zlotorzynska, Ewa; Wang, Daniel; Poon, Raymond; Williams, Ron; Stocco, Corinne; Anastassopoulos, Angelos; Miller, J David; Dales, Robert; Brook, Jeffrey R

2011-03-01

The Windsor, Ontario Exposure Assessment Study evaluated the contribution of ambient air pollutants to personal and indoor exposures of adults and asthmatic children living in Windsor, Ontario, Canada. In addition, the role of personal, indoor, and outdoor air pollution exposures upon asthmatic children's respiratory health was assessed. Several active and passive sampling methods were applied, or adapted, for personal, indoor, and outdoor residential monitoring of nitrogen dioxide, volatile organic compounds, particulate matter (PM; PM-2.5 pm [PM2.5] and < or =10 microm [PM10] in aerodynamic diameter), elemental carbon, ultrafine particles, ozone, air exchange rates, allergens in settled dust, and particulate-associated metals. Participants completed five consecutive days of monitoring during the winter and summer of 2005 and 2006. During 2006, in addition to undertaking the air pollution measurements, asthmatic children completed respiratory health measurements (including peak flow meter tests and exhaled breath condensate) and tracked respiratory symptoms in a diary. Extensive quality assurance and quality control steps were implemented, including the collocation of instruments at the National Air Pollution Surveillance site operated by Environment Canada and at the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality site in Allen Park, Detroit, MI. During field sampling, duplicate and blank samples were also completed and these data are reported. In total, 50 adults and 51 asthmatic children were recruited to participate, resulting in 922 participant days of data. When comparing the methods used in the study with standard reference methods, field blanks were low and bias was acceptable, with most methods being within 20% of reference methods. Duplicates were typically within less than 10% of each other, indicating that study results can be used with confidence. This paper covers study design, recruitment, methodology, time activity diary, surveys, and quality

Superconducting accelerator cavity with a heat affected zone having a higher RRR

DOEpatents

Brawley, John; Phillips, H. Lawrence

2000-01-01

An improved method for welding accelerator cavities without the need for time consuming and expensive faying surface treatments comprising electron beam welding such cavities in a vacuum welding chamber within a vacuum envelope and using the following welding parameters: a beam voltage of between about 45 KV and 55 KV; a beam current between about 38 ma and 47 ma; a weld speed of about 15 cm/min; and a sharp focus and a rhombic raster of between about 9 KHz and 10 Khz. A welded cavity made according to the method of the present invention is also described.

Welding technology transfer task/laser based weld joint tracking system for compressor girth welds

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Looney, Alan

1991-01-01

Sensors to control and monitor welding operations are currently being developed at Marshall Space Flight Center. The laser based weld bead profiler/torch rotation sensor was modified to provide a weld joint tracking system for compressor girth welds. The tracking system features a precision laser based vision sensor, automated two-axis machine motion, and an industrial PC controller. The system benefits are elimination of weld repairs caused by joint tracking errors which reduces manufacturing costs and increases production output, simplification of tooling, and free costly manufacturing floor space.

[Dual energy CT angiography of the carotid arteries: quality, bone subtraction, and radiation dosage using tube voltage 80/140 kV versus 100/140 kV].

PubMed

Santos Armentia, E; Tardáguila de la Fuente, G; Castellón Plaza, D; Delgado Sánchez-Gracián, C; Prada González, R; Fernández Fernández, L; Tardáguila Montero, F

2014-01-01

To study the differences in vascular image quality, bone subtraction, and dose of radiation of dual energy CT angiography of the supraaortic trunks using different tube voltages. We reviewed the CT angiograms of the supraaortic trunks in 46 patients acquired with a 128-slice dual source CT scanner using two voltage protocols (80/140 kV and 100/140 kV). The "head bone removal" tool was used for postprocessing. We divided the arteries into 15 segments. In each segment, we evaluated the image quality of the vessels and the effectiveness of bone removal in multiplanar reconstructions (MPR) and in maximum intensity projections (MIP) with each protocol, analyzing the trabecular and cortical bones separately. We also evaluated the dose of radiation received. Of the 46 patients, 13 were studied using 80/140 kV and 33 with 100/140 kV. There were no significant differences between the two groups in age or sex. Image quality in four segments was better in the group examined with 100/140 kV. Cortical bone removal in MPR and MIP and trabecular bone removal in MIP were also better in the group examined with 100/140 kV. The dose of radiation received was significantly higher in the group examined with 100/140 kV (1.16 mSv with 80/140 kV vs. 1.59 mSv with 100/140 kV). Using 100/140 kV increases the dose of radiation but improves the quality of the study of arterial segments and bone subtraction. Copyright © 2011 SERAM. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

Friction Stir Welding

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nunes, Arthur C., Jr.

2008-01-01

Friction stir welding (FSW) is a solid state welding process invented in 1991 at The Welding Institute in the United Kingdom. A weld is made in the FSW process by translating a rotating pin along a weld seam so as to stir the sides of the seam together. FSW avoids deleterious effects inherent in melting and promises to be an important welding process for any industries where welds of optimal quality are demanded. This article provides an introduction to the FSW process. The chief concern is the physical effect of the tool on the weld metal: how weld seam bonding takes place, what kind of weld structure is generated, potential problems, possible defects for example, and implications for process parameters and tool design. Weld properties are determined by structure, and the structure of friction stir welds is determined by the weld metal flow field in the vicinity of the weld tool. Metal flow in the vicinity of the weld tool is explained through a simple kinematic flow model that decomposes the flow field into three basic component flows: a uniform translation, a rotating solid cylinder, and a ring vortex encircling the tool. The flow components, superposed to construct the flow model, can be related to particular aspects of weld process parameters and tool design; they provide a bridge to an understanding of a complex-at-first-glance weld structure. Torques and forces are also discussed. Some simple mathematical models of structural aspects, torques, and forces are included.

Alternate Welding Processes for In-Service Welding

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-04-24

Conducting weld repairs and attaching hot tap tees onto pressurized pipes has the advantage of avoiding loss of service and revenue. However, the risks involved with in-service welding need to be managed by ensuring that welding is performed in a rep...

29 CFR 1926.1409 - Power line safety (over 350 kV).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 29 Labor 8 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Power line safety (over 350 kV). 1926.1409 Section 1926... Construction § 1926.1409 Power line safety (over 350 kV). The requirements of § 1926.1407 and § 1926.1408 apply to power lines over 350 kV except: (a) For power lines at or below 1000 kV, wherever the distance “20...

29 CFR 1926.1409 - Power line safety (over 350 kV).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 29 Labor 8 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Power line safety (over 350 kV). 1926.1409 Section 1926... Construction § 1926.1409 Power line safety (over 350 kV). The requirements of § 1926.1407 and § 1926.1408 apply to power lines over 350 kV except: (a) For power lines at or below 1000 kV, wherever the distance “20...

29 CFR 1926.1409 - Power line safety (over 350 kV).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 29 Labor 8 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Power line safety (over 350 kV). 1926.1409 Section 1926... Construction § 1926.1409 Power line safety (over 350 kV). The requirements of § 1926.1407 and § 1926.1408 apply to power lines over 350 kV except: (a) For power lines at or below 1000 kV, wherever the distance “20...

29 CFR 1926.1409 - Power line safety (over 350 kV).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 29 Labor 8 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Power line safety (over 350 kV). 1926.1409 Section 1926... Construction § 1926.1409 Power line safety (over 350 kV). The requirements of § 1926.1407 and § 1926.1408 apply to power lines over 350 kV except: (a) For power lines at or below 1000 kV, wherever the distance “20...

Thermal Stir Welding: A New Solid State Welding Process

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ding, R. Jeffery; Munafo, Paul M. (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

Thermal Stir Shielding is a revolutionary new welding process developed at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, AL. Thermal stir welding is similar to friction stir welding in that it joins similar or dissimilar materials without melting the parent material. However, unlike friction stir welding, the heating and stirring functions are independent allowing more degrees of freedom for greater process control. This paper introduces the mechanics of the thermal stir welding process. In addition, weld mechanical property data is presented for selected alloys as well as metallurgical analysis.

Automated Welding System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bayless, E. O.; Lawless, K. G.; Kurgan, C.; Nunes, A. C.; Graham, B. F.; Hoffman, D.; Jones, C. S.; Shepard, R.

1993-01-01

Fully automated variable-polarity plasma arc VPPA welding system developed at Marshall Space Flight Center. System eliminates defects caused by human error. Integrates many sensors with mathematical model of the weld and computer-controlled welding equipment. Sensors provide real-time information on geometry of weld bead, location of weld joint, and wire-feed entry. Mathematical model relates geometry of weld to critical parameters of welding process.

The Role of KV7.3 in Regulating Osteoblast Maturation and Mineralization

PubMed Central

Yang, Ji Eun; Song, Min Seok; Shen, Yiming; Ryu, Pan Dong; Lee, So Yeong

2016-01-01

KCNQ (KV7) channels are voltage-gated potassium (KV) channels, and the function of KV7 channels in muscles, neurons, and sensory cells is well established. We confirmed that overall blockade of KV channels with tetraethylammonium augmented the mineralization of bone-marrow-derived human mesenchymal stem cells during osteogenic differentiation, and we determined that KV7.3 was expressed in MG-63 and Saos-2 cells at the mRNA and protein levels. In addition, functional KV7 currents were detected in MG-63 cells. Inhibition of KV7.3 by linopirdine or XE991 increased the matrix mineralization during osteoblast differentiation. This was confirmed by alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin, and osterix in MG-63 cells, whereas the expression of Runx2 showed no significant change. The extracellular glutamate secreted by osteoblasts was also measured to investigate its effect on MG-63 osteoblast differentiation. Blockade of KV7.3 promoted the release of glutamate via the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2-mediated upregulation of synapsin, and induced the deposition of type 1 collagen. However, activation of KV7.3 by flupirtine did not produce notable changes in matrix mineralization during osteoblast differentiation. These results suggest that KV7.3 could be a novel regulator in osteoblast differentiation. PMID:26999128

The Role of KV7.3 in Regulating Osteoblast Maturation and Mineralization.

PubMed

Yang, Ji Eun; Song, Min Seok; Shen, Yiming; Ryu, Pan Dong; Lee, So Yeong

2016-03-18

KCNQ (KV7) channels are voltage-gated potassium (KV) channels, and the function of KV7 channels in muscles, neurons, and sensory cells is well established. We confirmed that overall blockade of KV channels with tetraethylammonium augmented the mineralization of bone-marrow-derived human mesenchymal stem cells during osteogenic differentiation, and we determined that KV7.3 was expressed in MG-63 and Saos-2 cells at the mRNA and protein levels. In addition, functional KV7 currents were detected in MG-63 cells. Inhibition of KV7.3 by linopirdine or XE991 increased the matrix mineralization during osteoblast differentiation. This was confirmed by alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin, and osterix in MG-63 cells, whereas the expression of Runx2 showed no significant change. The extracellular glutamate secreted by osteoblasts was also measured to investigate its effect on MG-63 osteoblast differentiation. Blockade of KV7.3 promoted the release of glutamate via the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2-mediated upregulation of synapsin, and induced the deposition of type 1 collagen. However, activation of KV7.3 by flupirtine did not produce notable changes in matrix mineralization during osteoblast differentiation. These results suggest that KV7.3 could be a novel regulator in osteoblast differentiation.

Side-to-Side Cold Welding for Controllable Nanogap Formation from "Dumbbell" Ultrathin Gold Nanorods.

PubMed

Dai, Gaole; Wang, Binjun; Xu, Shang; Lu, Yang; Shen, Yajing

2016-06-01

Cold welding has been regarded as a promising bottom-up nanofabrication technique because of its ability to join metallic nanostructures at room temperature with low applied stress and without introducing damage. Usually, the cold welding process can be done instantaneously for ultrathin nanowires (diameter <10 nm) in "head-to-head" joining. Here, we demonstrate that "dumbbell" shaped ultrathin gold nanorods can be cold welded in the "side-to-side" mode in a highly controllable manner and can form an extremely small nanogap via a relatively slow welding process (up to tens of minutes, allowing various functional applications). By combining in situ high-resolution transmission electron microscopic analysis and molecular dynamic simulations, we further reveal the underlying mechanism for this "side-to-side" welding process as being dominated by atom kinetics instead of thermodynamics, which provides critical insights into three-dimensional nanosystem integration as well as the building of functional nanodevices.

Microscopic analysis of structural changes in diode-laser-welded corneal stroma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matteini, Paolo; Rossi, Francesca; Menabuoni, Luca; Pini, Roberto

2007-02-01

Diode laser welding of the cornea is a technique used to provide immediate sealing of corneal wounds: the cut is stained with a water solution of Indocyanine Green and is then irradiated with an 810 nm laser at low power densities (12-16 W/cm2), which induces a localized heating of the stroma in the range 55-66 °C range. In this study, we present a microscopic analysis aimed at evaluating the structural modifications induced in the stromal collagen of pig eyes during the laser welding of corneal wounds. Cornea samples obtained from twenty freshly-enucleated eyes were cut with a pre-calibrated knife and subjected to the laser welding procedure. Histological slices of the laser-welded stroma were examined by means of optical and transmission electron microscopy. These analyses indicated that bridges of lamellar structures crossed the wound edges with no presence of a coagulation effect. After laser welding, collagen fibrils appeared differently oriented among themselves in comparison with those of the control samples, but with similar mean fibril diameters. The laser-induced effect appeared to be confined to the ICG stained area of the cut walls, and no heat damage was observed at the operative power levels of laser corneal welding.

Microstructural analysis of laser weld fusion zone in Haynes 282 superalloy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Osoba, L.O.; Ding, R.G.; Ojo, O.A., E-mail: ojo@cc.umanitoba.ca

Analytical electron microscopy and spectroscopy analyses of the fusion zone (FZ) microstructure in autogenous laser beam welded Haynes 282 (HY 282) superalloy were performed. The micro-segregation patterns observed in the FZ indicate that Co, Cr and Al exhibited a nearly uniform distribution between the dendrite core and interdendritic regions while Ti and Mo were rejected into the interdendritic liquid during the weld solidification. Transmission electron diffraction analysis and energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis revealed the second phase particles formed along the FZ interdendritic region to be Ti-Mo rich MC-type carbide particles. Weld FZ solidification cracking, which is sometimes associated with themore » formation of {gamma}-{gamma}' eutectic in {gamma}' precipitation strengthened nickel-base superalloys, was not observed in the HY 282 superalloy. Modified primary solidification path due to carbon addition in the newly developed superalloy is used to explain preclusion of weld FZ solidification cracking in the material. - Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer A newly developed superalloy was welded by CO{sub 2} laser beam joining technique. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Electron microscopy characterization of the weld microstructure was performed. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Identified interdendritic microconstituents consist of MC-type carbides. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Modification of primary solidification path is used to explain cracking resistance.« less

Comparison of the NIST and NPL Air Kerma Standards Used for X-Ray Measurements Between 10 kV and 80 kV

PubMed Central

O’Brien, M.; Lamperti, P.; Williams, T.; Sander, T.

2000-01-01

A direct comparison was made between the air kerma primary standards used for the measurements of low-energy x rays at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the National Physical Laboratory (NPL). The comparison was conducted at the NPL using NPL reference radiation qualities between 10 kV and 80 kV. The results show the primary air-kerma standards to agree within 0.6 % of their values for beam qualities up to 80 kV. PMID:27551632

Relationship between spatter formation and dynamic molten pool during high-power deep-penetration laser welding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Shichun; Chen, Genyu; Katayama, Seiji; Zhang, Yi

2014-06-01

The spatter and the molten pool behavior, which were the important phenomena concerned with the welding quality, were observed and studied by using the high-speed camera and the X-ray transmission imaging system during laser welding under different welding parameters. The formation mechanism of spatter and the corresponding relationships between the spatter and molten pool behavior were investigated. The increase of laser power could cause more intense evaporation and lead to more spatter. When the focal position of laser beam was changed, different forms of spatter were generated, as well as the flow trends of molten metal on the front keyhole wall and at the rear molten pool were changed. The results revealed that the behavior of molten pool, which could be affected by the absorbed energy distribution in the keyhole, was the key factor to determine the spatter formation during laser welding. The relatively sound weld seam could be obtained during laser welding with the focal position located inside the metal.

Factors affecting weld root morphology in laser keyhole welding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Frostevarg, Jan

2018-02-01

Welding production efficiency is usually optimised if full penetration can be achieved in a single pass. Techniques such as electron and laser beam welding offer deep high speed keyhole welding, especially since multi-kilowatt lasers became available. However, there are limitations for these techniques when considering weld imperfections such as weld cap undercuts, interior porosity or humps at the root. The thickness of sheets during full penetration welding is practically limited by these root humps. The mechanisms behind root morphology formation are not yet satisfactory understood. In this paper root humping is studied by reviewing previous studies and findings and also by sample examination and process observation by high speed imaging. Different process regimes governing root quality are presented, categorized and explained. Even though this study mainly covers laser beam and laser arc hybrid welding, the presented findings can generally be applied full penetration welding in medium to thick sheets, especially the discussion of surface tension effects. As a final result of this analysis, a map of methods to optimise weld root topology is presented.

The effect of welding parameters on penetration in GTA welds

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Shirali, A.A.; Mills, K.C.

1993-07-01

The effect of various welding parameters on the penetration of GTA welds has been investigated. Increases in welding speed were found to reduce penetration; however, increases in welding current were observed to increase the penetration in high sulfur (HS) casts and decrease penetration in low sulfur (LS) steels. Plots of penetration as a function of increasing linear energy (the heat supplied per unit length of weld) revealed a similar trend with increased penetration in HS casts, but the penetration in LS casts was unaffected by increases in linear energy. These results support the Burgardt-Heiple proposition that changes in welding parametersmore » on penetration can be explained in terms of their effect, sequentially, on the temperature gradient and the Marangoni forces operating in the weld pool. Increases in arc length were found to decrease weld penetration regardless of the sulfur concentration of the steel, and the effects of electrode geometry and welding position on weld penetration were also investigated.« less

Gas tungsten arc welding and friction stir welding of ultrafine grained AISI 304L stainless steel: Microstructural and mechanical behavior characterization

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sabooni, S., E-mail: s.sabooni@ma.iut.ac.ir; Karimzadeh, F.; Enayati, M.H.

In the present study, an ultrafine grained (UFG) AISI 304L stainless steel with the average grain size of 650 nm was successfully welded by both gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) and friction stir welding (FSW). GTAW was applied without any filler metal. FSW was also performed at a constant rotational speed of 630 rpm and different welding speeds from 20 to 80 mm/min. Microstructural characterization was carried out by High Resolution Scanning Electron Microscopy (HRSEM) with Electron Backscattered Diffraction (EBSD) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). Nanoindentation, microhardness measurements and tensile tests were also performed to study the mechanical properties ofmore » the base metal and weldments. The results showed that the solidification mode in the GTAW welded sample is FA (ferrite–austenite) type with the microstructure consisting of an austenite matrix embedded with lath type and skeletal type ferrite. The nugget zone microstructure in the FSW welded samples consisted of equiaxed dynamically recrystallized austenite grains with some amount of elongated delta ferrite. Sigma phase precipitates were formed in the region ahead the rotating tool during the heating cycle of FSW, which were finally fragmented into nanometric particles and distributed in the weld nugget. Also there is a high possibility that the existing delta ferrite in the microstructure rapidly transforms into sigma phase particles during the short thermal cycle of FSW. These suggest that high strain and deformation during FSW can promote sigma phase formation. The final austenite grain size in the nugget zone was found to decrease with increasing Zener–Hollomon parameter, which was obtained quantitatively by measuring the peak temperature, calculating the strain rate during FSW and exact examination of hot deformation activation energy by considering the actual grain size before the occurrence of dynamic recrystallization. Mechanical properties observations showed that the

49 CFR 195.228 - Welds and welding inspection: Standards of acceptability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 49 Transportation 3 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Welds and welding inspection: Standards of... SAFETY TRANSPORTATION OF HAZARDOUS LIQUIDS BY PIPELINE Construction § 195.228 Welds and welding inspection: Standards of acceptability. (a) Each weld and welding must be inspected to insure compliance with...

49 CFR 195.228 - Welds and welding inspection: Standards of acceptability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 49 Transportation 3 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Welds and welding inspection: Standards of... SAFETY TRANSPORTATION OF HAZARDOUS LIQUIDS BY PIPELINE Construction § 195.228 Welds and welding inspection: Standards of acceptability. (a) Each weld and welding must be inspected to insure compliance with...

49 CFR 195.228 - Welds and welding inspection: Standards of acceptability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 49 Transportation 3 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Welds and welding inspection: Standards of... SAFETY TRANSPORTATION OF HAZARDOUS LIQUIDS BY PIPELINE Construction § 195.228 Welds and welding inspection: Standards of acceptability. (a) Each weld and welding must be inspected to insure compliance with...

49 CFR 195.228 - Welds and welding inspection: Standards of acceptability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 49 Transportation 3 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Welds and welding inspection: Standards of... SAFETY TRANSPORTATION OF HAZARDOUS LIQUIDS BY PIPELINE Construction § 195.228 Welds and welding inspection: Standards of acceptability. (a) Each weld and welding must be inspected to insure compliance with...

49 CFR 195.228 - Welds and welding inspection: Standards of acceptability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 49 Transportation 3 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Welds and welding inspection: Standards of... SAFETY TRANSPORTATION OF HAZARDOUS LIQUIDS BY PIPELINE Construction § 195.228 Welds and welding inspection: Standards of acceptability. (a) Each weld and welding must be inspected to insure compliance with...

Forming Completely Penetrated Welded T-joints when Pulsed Arc Welding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krampit, N. Yu; Krampit, M. A.; Sapozhkov, A. S.

2016-04-01

The paper is focused on revealing the influence of welding parameters on weld formation when pulsed arc welding. As an experimental sample a T-joint over 10 mm was selected. Welding was carried out in flat position, which required no edge preparation but provided mono-directional guaranteed root penetration. The following parameters of welding were subjected to investigation: gap in the joint, wire feed rate and incline angles of the torch along and across the weld axis. Technological recommendations have been made with respect to pulsed arc welding; the cost price of product manufacturing can be reduced on their basis due to reduction of labor input required by machining, lowering consumption of welding materials and electric power.

Parametric study in weld mismatch of longitudinally welded SSME HPFTP inlet

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Min, J. B.; Spanyer, K. L.; Brunair, R. M.

1991-01-01

Welded joints are an essential part of pressure vessels such as the Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME) Turbopumps. Defects produced in the welding process can be detrimental to weld performance. Recently, review of the SSME high pressure fuel turbopump (HPFTP) titanium inlet x rays revealed several weld discrepancies such as penetrameter density issues, film processing discrepancies, weld width discrepancies, porosity, lack of fusion, and weld offsets. Currently, the sensitivity of welded structures to defects is of concern. From a fatigue standpoint, weld offset may have a serious effect since local yielding, in general, aggravates cyclic stress effects. Therefore, the weld offset issue is considered. Using the finite element method and mathematical formulations, parametric studies were conducted to determine the influence of weld offsets and a variation of weld widths in longitudinally welded cylindrical structures with equal wall thickness on both sides of the joint. From the study, the finite element results and theoretical solutions are presented.

Effect of Bainitic Microstructure on Ballistic Performance of Armour Steel Weld Metal Using Developed High Ni-Coated Electrode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pramanick, A. K.; Das, H.; Reddy, G. M.; Ghosh, M.; Nandy, S.; Pal, T. K.

2018-05-01

Welding of armour steel has gained significant importance during the past few years as recent civilian and military requirements demand weld metal properties matching with base metal having good ballistic performance along with high strength and toughness at - 40 °C as per specification. The challenge of armour steel welding therefore lies in controlling the weld metal composition which is strongly dependent on welding electrode/consumables, resulting in desired weld microstructure consisting of lower bainite along with retained austenite. The performance of butt-welded armour steel joints produced by the developed electrodes was evaluated using tensile testing, ballistic testing, impact toughness at room temperature and subzero temperature. Microstructures of weld metals are exclusively characterized by x-ray diffraction technique, scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscopy with selected area diffraction pattern. Experimental results show that weld metal with relatively lower carbon, higher manganese and lower nickel content was attributed to lower bainite with film type of retained austenite may be considered as a most covetable microstructure for armour steel weld metal.

Effect of Bainitic Microstructure on Ballistic Performance of Armour Steel Weld Metal Using Developed High Ni-Coated Electrode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pramanick, A. K.; Das, H.; Reddy, G. M.; Ghosh, M.; Nandy, S.; Pal, T. K.

2018-04-01

Welding of armour steel has gained significant importance during the past few years as recent civilian and military requirements demand weld metal properties matching with base metal having good ballistic performance along with high strength and toughness at - 40 °C as per specification. The challenge of armour steel welding therefore lies in controlling the weld metal composition which is strongly dependent on welding electrode/consumables, resulting in desired weld microstructure consisting of lower bainite along with retained austenite. The performance of butt-welded armour steel joints produced by the developed electrodes was evaluated using tensile testing, ballistic testing, impact toughness at room temperature and subzero temperature. Microstructures of weld metals are exclusively characterized by x-ray diffraction technique, scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscopy with selected area diffraction pattern. Experimental results show that weld metal with relatively lower carbon, higher manganese and lower nickel content was attributed to lower bainite with film type of retained austenite may be considered as a most covetable microstructure for armour steel weld metal.

An Assessment of Molten Metal Detachment Hazards During Electron Beam Welding in the Space Shuttle Bay at LEO for the International Space Welding Experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fragomeni, James M.

1996-01-01

In 1997, the United States [NASA] and the Paton Electric Welding Institute are scheduled to cooperate in a flight demonstration on the U.S. Space Shuttle to demonstrate the feasibility of welding in space for a possible repair option for the International Space Station Alpha. This endeavor, known as the International Space Welding Experiment (ISWE), will involve astronauts performing various welding exercises such as brazing, cutting, welding, and coating using an electron beam space welding system that was developed by the E.O. Paton Electric Welding Institute (PWI), Kiev Ukraine. This electron beam welding system known as the "Universal Weld System" consists of hand tools capable of brazing, cutting, autogeneous welding, and coating using an 8 kV (8000 volts) electron beam. The electron beam hand tools have also been developed by the Paton Welding Institute with greater capabilities than the original hand tool, including filler wire feeding, to be used with the Universal Weld System on the U.S. Space Shuttle Bay as part of ISWE. The hand tool(s) known as the Ukrainian Universal Hand [Electron Beam Welding] Tool (UHT) will be utilized for the ISWE Space Shuttle flight welding exercises to perform welding on various metal alloy samples. A total of 61 metal alloy samples, which include 304 stainless steel, Ti-6AI-4V, 2219 aluminum, and 5456 aluminum alloys, have been provided by NASA for the ISWE electron beam welding exercises using the UHT. These samples were chosen to replicate both the U.S. and Russian module materials. The ISWE requires extravehicular activity (EVA) of two astronauts to perform the space shuttle electron beam welding operations of the 61 alloy samples. This study was undertaken to determine if a hazard could exist with ISWE during the electron beam welding exercises in the Space Shuttle Bay using the Ukrainian Universal Weld System with the UHT. The safety issue has been raised with regard to molten metal detachments as a result of several

Deconvoluting the Friction Stir Weld Process for Optimizing Welds

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schneider, Judy; Nunes, Arthur C.

2008-01-01

In the friction stir welding process, the rotating surfaces of the pin and shoulder contact the weld metal and force a rotational flow within the weld metal. Heat, generated by the metal deformation as well as frictional slippage with the contact surface, softens the metal and makes it easier to deform. As in any thermo-mechanical processing of metal, the flow conditions are critical to the quality of the weld. For example, extrusion of metal from under the shoulder of an excessively hot weld may relax local pressure and result in wormhole defects. The trace of the weld joint in the wake of the weld may vary geometrically depending upon the flow streamlines around the tool with some geometry more vulnerable to loss of strength from joint contamination than others. The material flow path around the tool cannot be seen in real time during the weld. By using analytical "tools" based upon the principles of mathematics and physics, a weld model can be created to compute features that can be observed. By comparing the computed observations with actual data, the weld model can be validated or adjusted to get better agreement. Inputs to the model to predict weld structures and properties include: hot working properties ofthe metal, pin tool geometry, travel rate, rotation and plunge force. Since metals record their prior hot working history, the hot working conditions imparted during FSW can be quantified by interpreting the final microstructure. Variations in texture and grain size result from variations in the strain accommodated at a given strain rate and temperature. Microstructural data from a variety of FSWs has been correlated with prior marker studies to contribute to our understanding of the FSW process. Once this stage is reached, the weld modeling process can save significant development costs by reducing costly trial-and-error approaches to obtaining quality welds.

Tannic acid activates the Kv7.4 and Kv7.3/7.5 K(+) channels expressed in HEK293 cells and reduces tension in the rat mesenteric arteries.

PubMed

Zhang, Yuanyuan; Chu, Xi; Liu, Ling; Zhang, Nan; Guo, Hui; Yang, Fan; Liu, Zhenyi; Dong, Yongsheng; Bao, Yifan; Zhang, Xuan; Zhang, Jianping

2016-04-01

This study investigated the effect of tannic acid (TA), a plant-derived hydrolyzable polyphenol, on Kv7.4 and Kv7.5 K(+) channels and rat mesenteric artery. Whole-cell patch clamp experiments were used to record the Kv7.4 and Kv7.3/7.5 K(+) currents expressed in HEK293 cells; and the tension changes of mesenteric arteries isolated from rats were recorded using small vessel myography apparatus. Tannic acid increases the Kv7.4 and Kv7.3/7.5 K(+) currents in a concentration-dependent manner (median effective concentration (EC50 ) = 27.3 ± 3.6 μm and EC50 = 23.1 ± 3.9 μm, respectively). In addition, 30 μm TA shifts the G-V curve of Kv7.4 and Kv7.3/7.5 K(+) currents to the left by 14.18 and 25.24 mV, respectively, and prolongs the deactivation time constants by 184.44 and 154.77 ms, respectively. Moreover, TA relaxes the vascular tension of rat mesenteric arteries in a concentration-dependent manner (half inhibitory concentration (IC50 ) = 148.7 ± 13.4 μm). These results confirms the vasodilatory effects of TA on rat mesenteric artery and the activating effects on the Kv7.4 and Kv7.3/7.5 K(+) channels, which may be a mechanism to explain the vasodilatory effect and this mechanism can be used in the research of antihypertension. © 2016 Royal Pharmaceutical Society.

Welding IV.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Allegheny County Community Coll., Pittsburgh, PA.

Instructional objectives and performance requirements are outlined in this course guide for Welding IV, a competency-based course in advanced arc welding offered at the Community College of Allegheny County to provide students with proficiency in: (1) single vee groove welding using code specifications established by the American Welding Society…

Welding.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lehigh County Area Vocational-Technical School, Schnecksville, PA.

This curriculum guide provides materials for a 12-unit secondary course in welding. Purpose stated for the flexible entry and exit course is to help students master manipulative skills to develop successful welding techniques and to gain an understanding of the specialized tools and equipment used in the welding field. Units cover oxyacetylene…

Effects of Fusion Tack Welds on Self-Reacting Friction Stir Welds

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nunes, A. C., Jr.; Pendleton, M. L.; Brooke, S. A.; Russell, C. K.

2012-01-01

In order to know whether fusion tack welds would affect the strength of self-reacting friction stir seam welds in 2195-T87 aluminum alloy, the fracture stresses of 144 tensile test coupons cut from 24 welded panels containing segments of friction stir welds were measured. Each of the panels was welded under unique processing conditions. A measure of the effect of the tack welds for each panel was devised. An analysis of the measures of the tack weld effect supported the hypothesis that fusion tack welds do not affect the strength of self-reacting friction stir welds to a 5% level of confidence.

β Subunits Control the Effects of Human Kv4.3 Potassium Channel Phosphorylation.

PubMed

Abbott, Geoffrey W

2017-01-01

The transient outward K + current, I to , activates early in the cardiac myocyte action potential, to begin repolarization. Human I to is generated primarily by two Kv4.3 potassium channel α subunit splice variants (Kv4.3L and Kv4.3S) that diverge only by a C-terminal, membrane-proximal, 19-residue stretch unique to Kv4.3L. Protein kinase C (PKC) phosphorylation of threonine 504 within the Kv4.3L-specific 19-residues mediates α-adrenergic inhibition of I to in human heart. Kv4.3 is regulated in human heart by various β subunits, including cytosolic KChIP2b and transmembrane KCNEs, yet their impact on the functional effects of human Kv4.3 phosphorylation has not been reported. Here, this gap in knowledge was addressed using human Kv4.3 splice variants, T504 mutants, and human β subunits. Subunits were co-expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes and analyzed by two-electrode voltage-clamp, using phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) to stimulate PKC. Unexpectedly, KChIP2b removed the inhibitory effect of PKC on Kv4.3L (but not Kv4.3L threonine phosphorylation by PKC per-se ), while co-expression with KCNE2, but not KCNE4, restored PKC-dependent inhibition of Kv4.3L-KChIP2b to quantitatively resemble previously reported effects of α-adrenergic modulation of human ventricular I to . In addition, PKC accelerated recovery from inactivation of Kv4.3L-KChIP2b channels and, interestingly, of both Kv4.3L and Kv4.3S alone. Thus, β subunits regulate the response of human Kv4.3 to PKC phosphorylation and provide a potential mechanism for modifying the response of I to to α-adrenergic regulation in vivo .

β Subunits Control the Effects of Human Kv4.3 Potassium Channel Phosphorylation

PubMed Central

Abbott, Geoffrey W.

2017-01-01

The transient outward K+ current, Ito, activates early in the cardiac myocyte action potential, to begin repolarization. Human Ito is generated primarily by two Kv4.3 potassium channel α subunit splice variants (Kv4.3L and Kv4.3S) that diverge only by a C-terminal, membrane-proximal, 19-residue stretch unique to Kv4.3L. Protein kinase C (PKC) phosphorylation of threonine 504 within the Kv4.3L-specific 19-residues mediates α-adrenergic inhibition of Ito in human heart. Kv4.3 is regulated in human heart by various β subunits, including cytosolic KChIP2b and transmembrane KCNEs, yet their impact on the functional effects of human Kv4.3 phosphorylation has not been reported. Here, this gap in knowledge was addressed using human Kv4.3 splice variants, T504 mutants, and human β subunits. Subunits were co-expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes and analyzed by two-electrode voltage-clamp, using phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) to stimulate PKC. Unexpectedly, KChIP2b removed the inhibitory effect of PKC on Kv4.3L (but not Kv4.3L threonine phosphorylation by PKC per-se), while co-expression with KCNE2, but not KCNE4, restored PKC-dependent inhibition of Kv4.3L-KChIP2b to quantitatively resemble previously reported effects of α-adrenergic modulation of human ventricular Ito. In addition, PKC accelerated recovery from inactivation of Kv4.3L-KChIP2b channels and, interestingly, of both Kv4.3L and Kv4.3S alone. Thus, β subunits regulate the response of human Kv4.3 to PKC phosphorylation and provide a potential mechanism for modifying the response of Ito to α-adrenergic regulation in vivo. PMID:28919864

Welding Curriculum.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Alaska State Dept. of Education, Juneau. Div. of Adult and Vocational Education.

This competency-based curriculum guide is a handbook for the development of welding trade programs. Based on a survey of Alaskan welding employers, it includes all competencies a student should acquire in such a welding program. The handbook stresses the importance of understanding the principles associated with the various elements of welding.…

Behavioural and functional characterization of Kv10.1 (Eag1) knockout mice

PubMed Central

Ufartes, Roser; Schneider, Tomasz; Mortensen, Lena Sünke; de Juan Romero, Camino; Hentrich, Klaus; Knoetgen, Hendrik; Beilinson, Vadim; Moebius, Wiebke; Tarabykin, Victor; Alves, Frauke; Pardo, Luis A.; Rawlins, J. Nicholas P.; Stuehmer, Walter

2013-01-01

Kv10.1 (Eag1), member of the Kv10 family of voltage-gated potassium channels, is preferentially expressed in adult brain. The aim of the present study was to unravel the functional role of Kv10.1 in the brain by generating knockout mice, where the voltage sensor and pore region of Kv10.1 were removed to render non-functional proteins through deletion of exon 7 of the KCNH1 gene using the ‘3 Lox P strategy’. Kv10.1-deficient mice show no obvious alterations during embryogenesis and develop normally to adulthood; cortex, hippocampus and cerebellum appear anatomically normal. Other tests, including general health screen, sensorimotor functioning and gating, anxiety, social behaviour, learning and memory did not show any functional aberrations in Kv10.1 null mice. Kv10.1 null mice display mild hyperactivity and longer-lasting haloperidol-induced catalepsy, but there was no difference between genotypes in amphetamine sensitization and withdrawal, reactivity to apomorphine and haloperidol in the prepulse inhibition tests or to antidepressants in the haloperidol-induced catalepsy. Furthermore, electrical properties of Kv10.1 in cerebellar Purkinje cells did not show any difference between genotypes. Bearing in mind that Kv10.1 is overexpressed in over 70% of all human tumours and that its inhibition leads to a reduced tumour cell proliferation, the fact that deletion of Kv10.1 does not show a marked phenotype is a prerequisite for utilizing Kv10.1 blocking and/or reduction techniques, such as siRNA, to treat cancer. PMID:23424202

Touch and step potential analysis at 23.9kV to 4.16kV & 13.8kV to 4.16kV distribution substations with pad-mounted transformers, floating grounds, and other exposed ungrounded metal bodies using WinIGS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guzman, David G.

An electrical substation is composed of various subsystems that allow for the effective and safe operation of the power grid. One of the subsystems integrating a conventional substation is defined as the ground grid system. This system allows for the effective operation of the power grid and all the electrical equipment connected to it by providing a ground potential reference, commonly known as the system ground. In addition, the ground grid system provides safety to the workers and the public transiting inside or living nearby a substation by reducing the step and touch potential (or voltage) levels present during a system fault. In today's utility industry practices there is an increasing trend for using pad-mounted electrical equipment for substation applications in an effort to construct new or upgrade existing electrical facilities inside limited property spaces. This thesis work presents an analysis for the effects of touch and step voltages at existing distribution substations where 23.9kV to 4.16kV & 13.8kV to 4.16kV pad-mounted transformers and other pad-mounted switchgear was installed to replace the traditional station class equipment. Moreover, this study will expose modeling techniques employed to define and determine the effects of floating grounds and other exposed metal bodies inside or surrounding these substations using WinIGS; this is in an effort to determine any risks of electric shock associated with this type of installations. The results presented in this work are intended to verify the requirements for the ground grid analysis and design for 4.16kV distribution substations with pad-mounted equipment in order to prevent dangerous step and touch voltage levels appearing at these sites during system faults; and ultimately prevent exposing individuals to the risk of an electric shock.

Active weld control

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Powell, Bradley W.; Burroughs, Ivan A.

1994-01-01

Through the two phases of this contract, sensors for welding applications and parameter extraction algorithms have been developed. These sensors form the foundation of a weld control system which can provide action weld control through the monitoring of the weld pool and keyhole in a VPPA welding process. Systems of this type offer the potential of quality enhancement and cost reduction (minimization of rework on faulty welds) for high-integrity welding applications. Sensors for preweld and postweld inspection, weld pool monitoring, keyhole/weld wire entry monitoring, and seam tracking were developed. Algorithms for signal extraction were also developed and analyzed to determine their application to an adaptive weld control system. The following sections discuss findings for each of the three sensors developed under this contract: (1) weld profiling sensor; (2) weld pool sensor; and (3) stereo seam tracker/keyhole imaging sensor. Hardened versions of these sensors were designed and built under this contract. A control system, described later, was developed on a multiprocessing/multitasking operating system for maximum power and flexibility. Documentation for sensor mechanical and electrical design is also included as appendices in this report.

Reduced sensory synaptic excitation impairs motor neuron function via Kv2.1 in spinal muscular atrophy.

PubMed

Fletcher, Emily V; Simon, Christian M; Pagiazitis, John G; Chalif, Joshua I; Vukojicic, Aleksandra; Drobac, Estelle; Wang, Xiaojian; Mentis, George Z

2017-07-01

Behavioral deficits in neurodegenerative diseases are often attributed to the selective dysfunction of vulnerable neurons via cell-autonomous mechanisms. Although vulnerable neurons are embedded in neuronal circuits, the contributions of their synaptic partners to disease process are largely unknown. Here we show that, in a mouse model of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a reduction in proprioceptive synaptic drive leads to motor neuron dysfunction and motor behavior impairments. In SMA mice or after the blockade of proprioceptive synaptic transmission, we observed a decrease in the motor neuron firing that could be explained by the reduction in the expression of the potassium channel Kv2.1 at the surface of motor neurons. Chronically increasing neuronal activity pharmacologically in vivo led to a normalization of Kv2.1 expression and an improvement in motor function. Our results demonstrate a key role of excitatory synaptic drive in shaping the function of motor neurons during development and the contribution of its disruption to a neurodegenerative disease.

Reduced sensory synaptic excitation impairs motor neuron function via Kv2.1 in spinal muscular atrophy

PubMed Central

Fletcher, Emily V.; Simon, Christian M.; Pagiazitis, John G.; Chalif, Joshua I.; Vukojicic, Aleksandra; Drobac, Estelle; Wang, Xiaojian; Mentis, George Z.

2017-01-01

Behavioral deficits in neurodegenerative diseases are often attributed to the selective dysfunction of vulnerable neurons via cell-autonomous mechanisms. Although vulnerable neurons are embedded in neuronal circuits, the contribution of their synaptic partners to the disease process is largely unknown. Here, we show that in a mouse model of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a reduction in proprioceptive synaptic drive leads to motor neuron dysfunction and motor behavior impairments. In SMA mice or after the blockade of proprioceptive synaptic transmission we observed a decrease in the motor neuron firing which could be explained by the reduction in the expression of the potassium channel Kv2.1 at the surface of motor neurons. Increasing neuronal activity pharmacologically by chronic exposure in vivo led to a normalization of Kv2.1 expression and an improvement in motor function. Our results demonstrate a key role of excitatory synaptic drive in shaping the function of motor neurons during development and the contribution of its disruption to a neurodegenerative disease. PMID:28504671

Retigabine holds KV7 channels open and stabilizes the resting potential

PubMed Central

Corbin-Leftwich, Aaron; Mossadeq, Sayeed M.; Ha, Junghoon; Ruchala, Iwona; Le, Audrey Han Ngoc

2016-01-01

The anticonvulsant Retigabine is a KV7 channel agonist used to treat hyperexcitability disorders in humans. Retigabine shifts the voltage dependence for activation of the heteromeric KV7.2/KV7.3 channel to more negative potentials, thus facilitating activation. Although the molecular mechanism underlying Retigabine’s action remains unknown, previous studies have identified the pore region of KV7 channels as the drug’s target. This suggested that the Retigabine-induced shift in voltage dependence likely derives from the stabilization of the pore domain in an open (conducting) conformation. Testing this idea, we show that the heteromeric KV7.2/KV7.3 channel has at least two open states, which we named O1 and O2, with O2 being more stable. The O1 state was reached after short membrane depolarizations, whereas O2 was reached after prolonged depolarization or during steady state at the typical neuronal resting potentials. We also found that activation and deactivation seem to follow distinct pathways, suggesting that the KV7.2/KV7.3 channel activity displays hysteresis. As for the action of Retigabine, we discovered that this agonist discriminates between open states, preferentially acting on the O2 state and further stabilizing it. Based on these findings, we proposed a novel mechanism for the therapeutic effect of Retigabine whereby this drug reduces excitability by enhancing the resting potential open state stability of KV7.2/KV7.3 channels. To address this hypothesis, we used a model for action potential (AP) in Xenopus laevis oocytes and found that the resting membrane potential became more negative as a function of Retigabine concentration, whereas the threshold potential for AP firing remained unaltered. PMID:26880756

Retigabine holds KV7 channels open and stabilizes the resting potential.

PubMed

Corbin-Leftwich, Aaron; Mossadeq, Sayeed M; Ha, Junghoon; Ruchala, Iwona; Le, Audrey Han Ngoc; Villalba-Galea, Carlos A

2016-03-01

The anticonvulsant Retigabine is a KV7 channel agonist used to treat hyperexcitability disorders in humans. Retigabine shifts the voltage dependence for activation of the heteromeric KV7.2/KV7.3 channel to more negative potentials, thus facilitating activation. Although the molecular mechanism underlying Retigabine's action remains unknown, previous studies have identified the pore region of KV7 channels as the drug's target. This suggested that the Retigabine-induced shift in voltage dependence likely derives from the stabilization of the pore domain in an open (conducting) conformation. Testing this idea, we show that the heteromeric KV7.2/KV7.3 channel has at least two open states, which we named O1 and O2, with O2 being more stable. The O1 state was reached after short membrane depolarizations, whereas O2 was reached after prolonged depolarization or during steady state at the typical neuronal resting potentials. We also found that activation and deactivation seem to follow distinct pathways, suggesting that the KV7.2/KV7.3 channel activity displays hysteresis. As for the action of Retigabine, we discovered that this agonist discriminates between open states, preferentially acting on the O2 state and further stabilizing it. Based on these findings, we proposed a novel mechanism for the therapeutic effect of Retigabine whereby this drug reduces excitability by enhancing the resting potential open state stability of KV7.2/KV7.3 channels. To address this hypothesis, we used a model for action potential (AP) in Xenopus laevis oocytes and found that the resting membrane potential became more negative as a function of Retigabine concentration, whereas the threshold potential for AP firing remained unaltered. © 2016 Corbin-Leftwich et al.

Weld bead profile of laser welding dissimilar joints stainless steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mohammed, Ghusoon R.; Ishak, M.; Aqida, S. N.; Abdulhadi, Hassan A.

2017-10-01

During the process of laser welding, the material consecutively melts and solidifies by a laser beam with a peak high power. Several parameters such as the laser energy, pulse frequency, pulse duration, welding power and welding speed govern the mode of the welding process. The aim of this paper is to investigate the effect of peak power, incident angle, and welding speed on the weld bead geometry. The first investigation in this context was conducted using 2205-316L stainless steel plates through the varying of the welding speed from 1.3 mm/s to 2.1 mm/s. The second investigation was conducted by varying the peak power from 1100 W to 1500 W. From the results of the experiments, the welding speed and laser power had a significant effect on the geometry of the weld bead, and the variation in the diameter of the bead pulse-size. Due to the decrease in the heat input, welding speed affected penetration depth more than bead width, and a narrow width of heat affected zone was achieved ranging from 0.2 to 0.5 mm. Conclusively, weld bead geometry dimensions increase as a function of peak power; at over 1350 W peak power, the dimensions lie within 30 μm.

Kv4.2 Knockout Mice Have Hippocampal-Dependent Learning and Memory Deficits

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lugo, Joaquin N.; Brewster, Amy L.; Spencer, Corinne M.; Anderson, Anne E.

2012-01-01

Kv4.2 channels contribute to the transient, outward K[superscript +] current (A-type current) in hippocampal dendrites, and modulation of this current substantially alters dendritic excitability. Using Kv4.2 knockout (KO) mice, we examined the role of Kv4.2 in hippocampal-dependent learning and memory. We found that Kv4.2 KO mice showed a deficit…

Microstructural Characteristics and Mechanical Properties of Friction Stir Welded Thick 5083 Aluminum Alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Imam, Murshid; Sun, Yufeng; Fujii, Hidetoshi; Ma, Ninshu; Tsutsumi, Seiichiro; Murakawa, Hidekazu

2017-01-01

Joining thick sections of aluminum alloys by friction stir welding (FSW) in a single pass needs to overcome many challenges before it comes to full-scale industrial use. Important parameters controlling the structure-properties relationships both across weld cross-section and through thickness direction were investigated through mechanical testing, electron backscatter diffraction technique, transmission electron microscopy, and occurrence of serrated plastic flow. The evolution of the properties in the weld cross-section shows that the presence of undissolved and fragmented Al_6MnFe particles cause discrepancies in establishing the Hall-Petch relationship, and derive the strengthening from the Orowan strengthening mechanism. A `stop action' friction stir weld has been prepared to understand the role of geometrical features of the tool probe in the development of the final microstructure after complete weld. Sectioning through the `stop action' weld with the probe in situ displays the individual effect of thread and flat on the grain structure formation. The material at the thread surface experiences more severe deformation than the material at flat surface. Both the high-angle boundaries and mean grain size are found to be higher at the thread surface. The strain hardening capacity, stress serration amplitude, and frequency are observed to be higher in the stir zone than other weld regions.

A 735 kV shunt reactors automatic switching system for Hydro-Quebec network

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bernard, S.; Trudel, G.; Scott, G.

1996-11-01

In recent years, Hydro-Quebec has undertaken a major program to upgrade the reliability of its transmission system. Much efforts have been directed toward increasing the system`s capacity to withstand extreme contingencies, usually caused by multiple incidents or the successive tripping of transmission lines. In order to counter such events, Hydro-Quebec has adopted a defensive scheme. Based entirely on automatic action, this scheme will mainly rely on: a 735 kV shunt reactor switching system (called MAIS); a generation rejection and/or remote load-shedding system (called RPTC); an underfrequency load-shedding system. The MAIS system, which is the subject of this paper, will bemore » implemented in 22 substations and is required to control voltage on the system after a severe event. Each MAIS system, acting locally, is entirely independent and will close or trip shunt reactors in response to local conditions.« less

Thermal Stir Welding: A New Solid State Welding Process

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ding, R. Jeffrey

2003-01-01

Thermal stir welding is a new welding process developed at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, AL. Thermal stir welding is similar to friction stir welding in that it joins similar or dissimilar materials without melting the parent material. However, unlike friction stir welding, the heating, stirring and forging elements of the process are all independent of each other and are separately controlled. Furthermore, the heating element of the process can be either a solid-state process (such as a thermal blanket, induction type process, etc), or, a fusion process (YG laser, plasma torch, etc.) The separation of the heating, stirring, forging elements of the process allows more degrees of freedom for greater process control. This paper introduces the mechanics of the thermal stir welding process. In addition, weld mechanical property data is presented for selected alloys as well as metallurgical analysis.

Thermal Stir Welding: A New Solid State Welding Process

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ding, R. Jeffrey; Munafo, Paul M. (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

Thermal stir welding is a new welding process developed at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, AL. Thermal stir welding is similar to friction stir welding in that it joins similar or dissimilar materials without melting the parent material. However, unlike friction stir welding, the heating, stirring and forging elements of the process are all independent of each other and are separately controlled. Furthermore, the heating element of the process can be either a solid-state process (such as a thermal blanket, induction type process, etc), or, a fusion process (YG laser, plasma torch, etc.) The separation of the heating, stirring, forging elements of the process allows more degrees of freedom for greater process control. This paper introduces the mechanics of the thermal stir welding process. In addition, weld mechanical property data is presented for selected alloys as well as metallurgical analysis.

Effect of welding position on porosity formation in aluminum alloy welds

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Haryung, J.; Wroth, R. S.

1967-01-01

Program investigates the effects of varied welding positions on weld qualities. Progressive changes in bead geometry occur as the weld plane angle is varied from upslope to downslope. The gravitational effect on the weld puddle varies greatly with welding position.

A Calmodulin C-Lobe Ca2+-Dependent Switch Governs Kv7 Channel Function.

PubMed

Chang, Aram; Abderemane-Ali, Fayal; Hura, Greg L; Rossen, Nathan D; Gate, Rachel E; Minor, Daniel L

2018-02-21

Kv7 (KCNQ) voltage-gated potassium channels control excitability in the brain, heart, and ear. Calmodulin (CaM) is crucial for Kv7 function, but how this calcium sensor affects activity has remained unclear. Here, we present X-ray crystallographic analysis of CaM:Kv7.4 and CaM:Kv7.5 AB domain complexes that reveal an Apo/CaM clamp conformation and calcium binding preferences. These structures, combined with small-angle X-ray scattering, biochemical, and functional studies, establish a regulatory mechanism for Kv7 CaM modulation based on a common architecture in which a CaM C-lobe calcium-dependent switch releases a shared Apo/CaM clamp conformation. This C-lobe switch inhibits voltage-dependent activation of Kv7.4 and Kv7.5 but facilitates Kv7.1, demonstrating that mechanism is shared by Kv7 isoforms despite the different directions of CaM modulation. Our findings provide a unified framework for understanding how CaM controls different Kv7 isoforms and highlight the role of membrane proximal domains for controlling voltage-gated channel function. VIDEO ABSTRACT. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Deposition of a saline giant in the Mississippian Windsor Group, Nova Scotia, and the nascent Late Paleozoic Ice Age

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

MacNeil, Laura A.; Pufahl, Peir K.; James, Noel P.

2018-01-01

Saline giants are vast marine evaporite deposits that currently have no modern analogues and remain one of the most enigmatic of chemical sedimentary rocks. The Mississippian Windsor Group (ca. 345 Ma), Maritimes Basin, Atlantic Canada is a saline giant that consists of two evaporite-rich sedimentary sequences that are subdivided into five subzones. Sequence 1 is composed almost entirely of thick halite belonging to Subzone A (Osagean). Sequence 2 is in unconformable contact and comprised of stacked carbonate-evaporite peritidal cycles of Subzones B through E (Meramecian). Subzone B, the focus of research herein, documents the transition from wholly evaporitic to open marine conditions and thus, preserves an exceptional window into the processes forming saline giants. Lithofacies stacking patterns in Subzone B reveal that higher-order fluctuations in relative sea level produced nine stacked parasequences interpreted to reflect high frequency glacioeustatic oscillations during the onset of the Late Paleozoic Ice Age. Each parasequence reflects progradation of intertidal and sabkha sediments over subtidal carbonate and evaporite deposits. Dissimilarities in cycle composition between sub-basins imply the development of contrasting brine chemistries from differing recharge rates with the open ocean. What the Windsor Group shows is that evaporite type is ostensibly linked to the amplitude and frequency of sea level rise and fall during deposition. True saline giants, like the basinwide evaporites of Sequence 1, apparently require low amplitude, long frequency changes in sea level to promote the development of stable brine pools that are only periodically recharged with seawater. By contrast, the high amplitude, short frequency glacioeustatic variability in sea level that controlled the accumulation of peritidal evaporites in Subzone B produce smaller, subeconomic deposits with more complex facies relationships.

Sustainability of Welding Process through Bobbin Friction Stir Welding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sued, M. K.; Samsuri, S. S. M.; Kassim, M. K. A. M.; Nasir, S. N. N. M.

2018-03-01

Welding process is in high demand, which required a competitive technology to be adopted. This is important for sustaining the needs of the joining industries without ignoring the impact of the process to the environment. Friction stir welding (FSW) is stated to be benefitting the environment through low energy consumption, which cannot be achieved through traditional arc welding. However, this is not well documented, especially for bobbin friction stir welding (BFSW). Therefore, an investigation is conducted by measuring current consumption of the machine during the BFSW process. From the measurement, different phases of BFSW welding process and its electrical demand are presented. It is found that in general total energy in BFSW is about 130kW inclusive of all identified process phases. The phase that utilise for joint formation is in weld phase that used the highest total energy of 120kWs. The recorded total energy is still far below the traditional welding technology and the conventional friction stir welding (CFSW) energy demand. This indicates that BFSW technology with its vast benefit able to sustain the joining technology in near future.

Kv7.2 regulates the function of peripheral sensory neurons.

PubMed

King, Chih H; Lancaster, Eric; Salomon, Daniela; Peles, Elior; Scherer, Steven S

2014-10-01

The Kv7 (KCNQ) family of voltage-gated K(+) channels regulates cellular excitability. The functional role of Kv7.2 has been hampered by the lack of a viable Kcnq2-null animal model. In this study, we generated homozygous Kcnq2-null sensory neurons using the Cre-Lox system; in these mice, Kv7.2 expression is absent in the peripheral sensory neurons, whereas the expression of other molecular components of nodes (including Kv7.3), paranodes, and juxtaparanodes is not altered. The conditional Kcnq2-null animals exhibit normal motor performance but have increased thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia. Whole-cell patch recording technique demonstrates that Kcnq2-null sensory neurons have increased excitability and reduced spike frequency adaptation. Taken together, our results suggest that the loss of Kv7.2 activity increases the excitability of primary sensory neurons. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Enabling high speed friction stir welding of aluminum tailor welded blanks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hovanski, Yuri

Current welding technologies for production of aluminum tailor-welded blanks (TWBs) are utilized in low-volume and niche applications, and have yet to be scaled for the high-volume vehicle market. This study targeted further weight reduction, part reduction, and cost savings by enabling tailor-welded blank technology for aluminum alloys at high-volumes. While friction stir welding (FSW) has traditionally been applied at linear velocities less than one meter per minute, high volume production applications demand the process be extended to higher velocities more amenable to cost sensitive production environments. Unfortunately, weld parameters and performance developed and characterized at low to moderate welding velocities do not directly translate to high speed linear friction stir welding. Therefore, in order to facilitate production of high volume aluminum FSW components, parameters were developed with a minimum welding velocity of three meters per minute. With an emphasis on weld quality, welded blanks were evaluated for post-weld formability using a combination of numerical and experimental methods. Evaluation across scales was ultimately validated by stamping full-size production door inner panels made from dissimilar thickness aluminum tailor-welded blanks, which provided validation of the numerical and experimental analysis of laboratory scale tests.

Kv1.5 in the immune system: the good, the bad, or the ugly?

PubMed

Felipe, Antonio; Soler, Concepció; Comes, Núria

2010-01-01

For the last 20 years, knowledge of the physiological role of voltage-dependent potassium channels (Kv) in the immune system has grown exponentially. Leukocytes express a limited repertoire of Kv channels, which contribute to the membrane potential. These proteins are involved in the immune response and are therefore considered good pharmacological targets. Although there is a clear consensus about the physiological relevance of Kv1.3, the expression and the role of Kv1.5 are controversial. However, recent reports indicate that certain heteromeric Kv1.3/Kv1.5 associations may provide insight on Kv1.5. Here, we summarize what is known about this issue and highlight the role of Kv1.5 partnership interactions that could be responsible for this debate. The Kv1.3/Kv1.5 heterotetrameric composition of the channel and their possible differential associations with accessory regulatory proteins warrant further investigation.

The Influence of Friction Stir Weld Tool Form and Welding Parameters on Weld Structure and Properties: Nugget Bulge in Self-Reacting Friction Stir Welds

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schneider, Judy; Nunes, Arthur C., Jr.; Brendel, Michael S.

2010-01-01

Although friction stir welding (FSW) was patented in 1991, process development has been based upon trial and error and the literature still exhibits little understanding of the mechanisms determining weld structure and properties. New concepts emerging from a better understanding of these mechanisms enhance the ability of FSW engineers to think about the FSW process in new ways, inevitably leading to advances in the technology. A kinematic approach in which the FSW flow process is decomposed into several simple flow components has been found to explain the basic structural features of FSW welds and to relate them to tool geometry and process parameters. Using this modelling approach, this study reports on a correlation between the features of the weld nugget, process parameters, weld tool geometry, and weld strength. This correlation presents a way to select process parameters for a given tool geometry so as to optimize weld strength. It also provides clues that may ultimately explain why the weld strength varies within the sample population.

Research on the Effect of Welding Speed on the Quality of Welding Seam Based on the Local Dry Underwater Welding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Lei; Chen, Wu; Wang, Huagang; Ba, Jinyu; Li, Bing

2017-12-01

The repair of nuclear spent fuel pool has a high requirement for the quality of welding, the welding speed directly affects the quality of the weld when local dry automatic underwater welding is used to repair the damaged surface. Under the condition of the same condition, the local dry automatic underwater welding test was carried out under the condition of the same welding condition. Taking the 20cm as the experimental condition, after massive experiments show that when the welding speed is approximately 48cm/min the weld quality is high, meeting the design requirements, based on the double layer shrinkage nozzle chamber of local dry underwater automatic welding.

PKD Phosphorylation as Novel Pathway of KV11.1 Regulation.

PubMed

Steffensen, Annette Buur; Bomholtz, Sofia Hammami; Andersen, Martin Nybo; Olsen, Jesper Velgaard; Mutsaers, Nancy; Lundegaard, Pia Rengtved; Lundby, Alicia; Schmitt, Nicole

2018-06-27

The voltage-gated potassium channel KV11.1 has been originally cloned from the brain and is expressed in a variety of tissues. The role of phosphorylation for channel function is a matter of debate. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the extent and role of protein kinase D mediated phosphorylation. We employed mass spectrometry, whole-cell patch clamp electrophysiology, confocal microscopy, site-directed mutagenesis, and western blotting. Using brain tissue from rat and mouse, we mapped several phosphorylated KV11.1 residues by LC-MS mass spectrometry and identified protein kinase D (PKD1) as possible regulatory kinase. Co-expression of KV11.1 with PKD1 reduced current amplitudes without altering protein levels or surface expression of the channel. Based on LC-MS results from in vivo and HEK293 cell experiments we chose four KV11.1 mutant candidates for further functional analysis. Ablation of the putative PKD phosphorylation site in the mutant S284A increased the maximal current indicating S284 as a main PKD target in KV11.1. Our data might help mitigating a long-standing controversy in the field regarding PKC regulation of KV11.1. We propose that PKD1 mediates the PKC effects on KV11.1 and we found that PKD targets S284 in the N-terminus of the channel. © 2018 The Author(s). Published by S. Karger AG, Basel.

Automatic orbital GTAW welding: Highest quality welds for tomorrow's high-performance systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Henon, B. K.

1985-01-01

Automatic orbital gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) or TIG welding is certain to play an increasingly prominent role in tomorrow's technology. The welds are of the highest quality and the repeatability of automatic weldings is vastly superior to that of manual welding. Since less heat is applied to the weld during automatic welding than manual welding, there is less change in the metallurgical properties of the parent material. The possibility of accurate control and the cleanliness of the automatic GTAW welding process make it highly suitable to the welding of the more exotic and expensive materials which are now widely used in the aerospace and hydrospace industries. Titanium, stainless steel, Inconel, and Incoloy, as well as, aluminum can all be welded to the highest quality specifications automatically. Automatic orbital GTAW equipment is available for the fusion butt welding of tube-to-tube, as well as, tube to autobuttweld fittings. The same equipment can also be used for the fusion butt welding of up to 6 inch pipe with a wall thickness of up to 0.154 inches.

Structure and Microhardness of Cu-Ta Joints Produced by Explosive Welding

PubMed Central

Maliutina, Iu. N.; Mali, V. I.; Bataev, I. A.; Bataev, A. A.; Esikov, M. A.; Smirnov, A. I.; Skorokhod, K. A.

2013-01-01

The structure and microhardness of Cu-Ta joints produced by explosive welding were studied. It was found that, during explosive welding, an intermediate layer 20⋯40 μm thick with a finely dispersed heterophase structure, formed between the welded copper and tantalum plates. The structure of the layer was studied by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Microvolumes with tantalum particles distributed in a copper matrix and microvolumes of copper particles in a tantalum matrix were detected. The tantalum particles in copper have a size of 5⋯500 nm, with a predominance of 5⋯50 nm particles. A mechanism for the formation of the finely dispersed heterophase structure in explosive welding is proposed. The microhardness of interlayers with the heterophase structure reaches 280 HV, which far exceeds the microhardness of copper (~130 HV) and tantalum (~160 HV). Many twins of deformation origin were found in the structure of the copper plate. The effect of heating temperature in the range from 100 to 900°C on the microhardness of copper, tantalum, and the Cu-Ta welded joint was studied. Upon heating to 900°C, the microhardness of the intermediate layer decreases from 280 to 150 HV. The reduction in the strength properties of the weld material is mainly due to structural transformations in copper. PMID:24453818

Kv4 channels underlie A-currents with highly variable inactivation time courses but homogeneous other gating properties in the nucleus tractus solitarii.

PubMed

Strube, Caroline; Saliba, Layal; Moubarak, Estelle; Penalba, Virginie; Martin-Eauclaire, Marie-France; Tell, Fabien; Clerc, Nadine

2015-04-01

In the nucleus of the tractus solitarii (NTS), a large proportion of neurones express transient A-type potassium currents (I KA) having deep influence on the fidelity of the synaptic transmission of the visceral primary afferent inputs to second-order neurones. Up to now, the strong impact of I KA within the NTS was considered to result exclusively from its variation in amplitude, and its molecular correlate(s) remained unknown. In order to identify which Kv channels underlie I KA in NTS neurones, the gating properties and the pharmacology of this current were determined using whole cell patch clamp recordings in slices. Complementary information was brought by immunohistochemistry. Strikingly, two neurone subpopulations characterized by fast or slow inactivation time courses (respectively about 50 and 200 ms) were discriminated. Both characteristics matched those of the Kv4 channel subfamily. The other gating properties, also matching the Kv4 channel ones, were homogeneous through the NTS. The activation and inactivation occurred at membrane potentials around the threshold for generating action potentials, and the time course of recovery from inactivation was rapid. Pharmacologically, I KA in NTS neurones was found to be resistant to tetraethylammonium (TEA), sea anemone toxin blood-depressing substance (BDS) and dendrotoxin (DTX), whereas Androctonus mauretanicus mauretanicus toxin 3 (AmmTX3), a scorpion toxin of the α-KTX 15 family that has been shown to block all the members of the Kv4 family, inhibited 80 % of I KA irrespectively of its inactivation time course. Finally, immunohistochemistry data suggested that, among the Kv4 channel subfamily, Kv4.3 is the prevalent subunit expressed in the NTS.

Heterogeneity in Kv7 channel function in the Cerebral and Coronary Circulation

PubMed Central

Tanner, Miles A.; Li, Min; Hill, Michael A.

2014-01-01

Kv7 channels are considered important regulators of vascular smooth muscle contractility. The present study examined the hypotheses that 1. Kv7 channels are present in mouse cerebral and coronary arteries and regulate vascular reactivity, and 2. regional differences exist in the activity of these channels. PCR confirmed that basilar, Circle of Willis and left anterior descending (LAD) arteries express predominantly Kv7.1 and 7.4. Western blot analysis, however, showed greater Kv7.4 protein levels in the cerebral vessels. Relaxation to the Kv7 channel activator, retigabine (1-50μM) was significantly greater in basilar compared to LAD. Similarly, the Kv7 channel inhibitor, linopirdine (10μM) caused stronger contraction of the basilar artery. Furthermore, pre-incubation with linopirdine reduced forskolin (cAMP activator)-induced vasorelaxation in basilar while not altering forskolin-induced vasorelaxation of the LAD, suggesting that Kv7 channels play a more prominent role in the cerebral than coronary circulation. Consistent with the vessel data, whole cell Kv7 currents in cerebral VSMCs were potentiated by retigabine and inhibited by linopirdine, while these responses were blunted in coronary VSMCs. This study provides evidence that mouse Kv7 channels may contribute differently to regulating the functional properties of cerebral and coronary arteries. Such heterogeneity has important implications for developing novel therapeutics for cardiovascular dysfunction. PMID:25476662

Early-onset epileptic encephalopathy caused by gain-of-function mutations in the voltage sensor of Kv7.2 and Kv7.3 potassium channel subunits.

PubMed

Miceli, Francesco; Soldovieri, Maria Virginia; Ambrosino, Paolo; De Maria, Michela; Migliore, Michele; Migliore, Rosanna; Taglialatela, Maurizio

2015-03-04

Mutations in Kv7.2 (KCNQ2) and Kv7.3 (KCNQ3) genes, encoding for voltage-gated K(+) channel subunits underlying the neuronal M-current, have been associated with a wide spectrum of early-onset epileptic disorders ranging from benign familial neonatal seizures to severe epileptic encephalopathies. The aim of the present work has been to investigate the molecular mechanisms of channel dysfunction caused by voltage-sensing domain mutations in Kv7.2 (R144Q, R201C, and R201H) or Kv7.3 (R230C) recently found in patients with epileptic encephalopathies and/or intellectual disability. Electrophysiological studies in mammalian cells transfected with human Kv7.2 and/or Kv7.3 cDNAs revealed that each of these four mutations stabilized the activated state of the channel, thereby producing gain-of-function effects, which are opposite to the loss-of-function effects produced by previously found mutations. Multistate structural modeling revealed that the R201 residue in Kv7.2, corresponding to R230 in Kv7.3, stabilized the resting and nearby voltage-sensing domain states by forming an intricate network of electrostatic interactions with neighboring negatively charged residues, a result also confirmed by disulfide trapping experiments. Using a realistic model of a feedforward inhibitory microcircuit in the hippocampal CA1 region, an increased excitability of pyramidal neurons was found upon incorporation of the experimentally defined parameters for mutant M-current, suggesting that changes in network interactions rather than in intrinsic cell properties may be responsible for the neuronal hyperexcitability by these gain-of-function mutations. Together, the present results suggest that gain-of-function mutations in Kv7.2/3 currents may cause human epilepsy with a severe clinical course, thus revealing a previously unexplored level of complexity in disease pathogenetic mechanisms. Copyright © 2015 the authors 0270-6474/15/353782-12$15.00/0.

Influence of Welding Process and Post Weld Heat Treatment on Microstructure and Pitting Corrosion Behavior of Dissimilar Aluminium Alloy Welds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Venkata Ramana, V. S. N.; Mohammed, Raffi; Madhusudhan Reddy, G.; Srinivasa Rao, K.

2018-03-01

Welding of dissimilar Aluminum alloy welds is becoming important in aerospace, shipbuilding and defence applications. In the present work, an attempt has been made to weld dissimilar aluminium alloys using conventional gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) and friction stir welding (FSW) processes. An attempt was also made to study the effect of post weld heat treatment (T4 condition) on microstructure and pitting corrosion behaviour of these welds. Results of the present investigation established the differences in microstructures of the base metals in T4 condition and in annealed conditions. It is evident that the thickness of the PMZ is relatively more on AA2014 side than that of AA6061 side. In FS welds, lamellar like shear bands are well noticed on the top of the stir zone. The concentration profile of dissimilar friction stir weld in T4 condition revealed that no diffusion has taken place at the interface. Poor Hardness is observed in all regions of FS welds compared to that of GTA welds. Pitting corrosion resistance of the dissimilar FS welds in all regions was improved by post weld heat treatment.

Modulation of Kv7 channels and excitability in the brain.

PubMed

Greene, Derek L; Hoshi, Naoto

2017-02-01

Neuronal Kv7 channels underlie a voltage-gated non-inactivating potassium current known as the M-current. Due to its particular characteristics, Kv7 channels show pronounced control over the excitability of neurons. We will discuss various factors that have been shown to drastically alter the activity of this channel such as protein and phospholipid interactions, phosphorylation, calcium, and numerous neurotransmitters. Kv7 channels locate to key areas for the control of action potential initiation and propagation. Moreover, we will explore the dynamic surface expression of the channel modulated by neurotransmitters and neural activity. We will also focus on known principle functions of neural Kv7 channels: control of resting membrane potential and spiking threshold, setting the firing frequency, afterhyperpolarization after burst firing, theta resonance, and transient hyperexcitability from neurotransmitter-induced suppression of the M-current. Finally, we will discuss the contribution of altered Kv7 activity to pathologies such as epilepsy and cognitive deficits.

Modulation of Kv7 channels and excitability in the brain

PubMed Central

Greene, Derek L; Hoshi, Naoto

2016-01-01

Neuronal Kv7 channels underlie a voltage-gated non-inactivating potassium current known as the M-current. Due to its particular characteristics, Kv7 channels show pronounced control over the excitability of neurons. We will discuss various factors that have been shown to drastically alter the activity of this channel such as protein and phospholipid interactions, phosphorylation, calcium, and numerous neurotransmitters. Kv7 channels locate to key areas for the control of action potential initiation and propagation. Moreover, we will explore the dynamic surface expression of the channel modulated by neurotransmitters and neural activity. We will also focus on known principle functions of neural Kv7 channels: control of resting membrane potential and spiking threshold, setting the firing frequency, afterhyperpolarization after burst firing, theta resonance, and transient hyperexcitability from neurotransmitter-induced suppression of the M-current. Finally, we will discuss the contribution of altered Kv7 activity to pathologies such as epilepsy and cognitive deficits. PMID:27645822

Peripheral KV7 channels regulate visceral sensory function in mouse and human colon

PubMed Central

Hockley, James RF; Reed, David E; Smith, Ewan St. John; Bulmer, David C; Blackshaw, L Ashley

2017-01-01

Background Chronic visceral pain is a defining symptom of many gastrointestinal disorders. The KV7 family (KV7.1–KV7.5) of voltage-gated potassium channels mediates the M current that regulates excitability in peripheral sensory nociceptors and central pain pathways. Here, we use a combination of immunohistochemistry, gut-nerve electrophysiological recordings in both mouse and human tissues, and single-cell qualitative real-time polymerase chain reaction of gut-projecting sensory neurons, to investigate the contribution of peripheral KV7 channels to visceral nociception. Results Immunohistochemical staining of mouse colon revealed labelling of KV7 subtypes (KV7.3 and KV7.5) with CGRP around intrinsic enteric neurons of the myenteric plexuses and within extrinsic sensory fibres along mesenteric blood vessels. Treatment with the KV7 opener retigabine almost completely abolished visceral afferent firing evoked by the algogen bradykinin, in agreement with significant co-expression of mRNA transcripts by single-cell qualitative real-time polymerase chain reaction for KCNQ subtypes and the B2 bradykinin receptor in retrogradely labelled extrinsic sensory neurons from the colon. Retigabine also attenuated responses to mechanical stimulation of the bowel following noxious distension (0–80 mmHg) in a concentration-dependent manner, whereas the KV7 blocker XE991 potentiated such responses. In human bowel tissues, KV7.3 and KV7.5 were expressed in neuronal varicosities co-labelled with synaptophysin and CGRP, and retigabine inhibited bradykinin-induced afferent activation in afferent recordings from human colon. Conclusions We show that KV7 channels contribute to the sensitivity of visceral sensory neurons to noxious chemical and mechanical stimuli in both mouse and human gut tissues. As such, peripherally restricted KV7 openers may represent a viable therapeutic modality for the treatment of gastrointestinal pathologies. PMID:28566000

Kv11.1 (hERG)-induced cardiotoxicity: a molecular insight from a binding kinetics study of prototypical Kv11.1 (hERG) inhibitors

PubMed Central

Yu, Z; IJzerman, A P; Heitman, L H

2015-01-01

Background and Purpose Drug-induced arrhythmia due to blockade of the Kv11.1 channel (also known as the hERG K+ channel) is a frequent side effect. Previous studies have primarily focused on equilibrium parameters, i.e. affinity or potency, of drug candidates at the channel. The aim of this study was to determine the kinetics of the interaction with the channel for a number of known Kv11.1 blockers and to explore a possible correlation with the affinity or physicochemical properties of these compounds. Experimental Approach The affinity and kinetic parameters of 15 prototypical Kv11.1 inhibitors were evaluated in a number of [3H]-dofetilide binding assays. The lipophilicity (logKW-C8) and membrane partitioning (logKW-IAM) of these compounds were determined by means of HPLC analysis. Key Results A novel [3H]-dofetilide competition association assay was set up and validated, which allowed us to determine the binding kinetics of the Kv11.1 blockers used in this study. Interestingly, the compounds' affinities (Ki values) were correlated to their association rates rather than dissociation rates. Overall lipophilicity or membrane partitioning of the compounds were not correlated to their affinity or rate constants for the channel. Conclusions and Implications A compound's affinity for the Kv11.1 channel is determined by its rate of association with the channel, while overall lipophilicity and membrane affinity are not. In more general terms, our findings provide novel insights into the mechanism of action for a compound's activity at the Kv11.1 channel. This may help to elucidate how Kv11.1-induced cardiotoxicity is governed and how it can be circumvented in the future. PMID:25296617

High-Speed Friction-Stir Welding To Enable Aluminum Tailor-Welded Blanks

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hovanski, Yuri; Upadhyay, Piyush; Carsley, John

Current joining technologies for automotive aluminum alloys are utilized in low-volume and niche applications, and have yet to be scaled for the high-volume vehicle market. This study targeted further weight reduction, part reduction, and cost savings by enabling tailor-welded blank technology for aluminum alloys at high-volumes. While friction stir welding has been traditionally applied at linear velocities less than one meter per minute, high volume production applications demand the process be extended to higher velocities more amenable to cost sensitive production environments. Unfortunately, weld parameters and performance developed and characterized at low to moderate welding velocities do not directly translatemore » to high speed linear friction stir welding. Therefore, in order to facilitate production of high volume aluminum welded components, parameters were developed with a minimum welding velocity of three meters per minute. With an emphasis on weld quality, welded blanks were evaluated for post-weld formability utilizing a combination of numerical and experimental methods. Evaluation across scales was ultimately validated by stamping full-size production door inner panels made from dissimilar thickness aluminum tailor-welded blanks, which provided validation of the numerical and experimental analysis of laboratory scale tests.« less

Control of the plume induced during high-power fiber laser welding with a transverse arc

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Shikai; Zou, Jianglin; Xiao, Rongshi; Li, Fei

2015-04-01

In this letter, the addition of the transverse arc into high-power fiber welding is proposed. The effects of the transverse arc on the laser-induced plume, the morphology of the weld, and the stability of the welding process are investigated. The experimental results indicate that, by introducing the transverse arc, the slender plume disappears, the temperature of the plasma plume increases then decreases with the rise in height, the weld width is reduced by around 42%, and the weld depth and the melting area are enhanced by about 28 and 12%, respectively. Moreover, the stability of the welding process is improved remarkably. As concluded from further analysis, the Mie scattering of the incident laser, induced by the particles in the plume, is responsible for the adverse effects induced by the plume. With the addition of the transverse arc, the particles in the plume are gasified and, thus, do not impact the energy transmission of the fiber laser. Consequently, the adverse effects induced by the plume can be significantly suppressed while the laser energy utilization efficiency and the stability of the welding process are improved.

How does KCNE1 regulate the Kv7.1 potassium channel? Model-structure, mutations, and dynamics of the Kv7.1-KCNE1 complex.

PubMed

Gofman, Yana; Shats, Simona; Attali, Bernard; Haliloglu, Turkan; Ben-Tal, Nir

2012-08-08

The voltage-gated potassium channel Kv7.1 and its auxiliary subunit KCNE1 are expressed in the heart and give rise to the major repolarization current. The interaction of Kv7.1 with the single transmembrane helix of KCNE1 considerably slows channel activation and deactivation, raises single-channel conductance, and prevents slow voltage-dependent inactivation. We built a Kv7.1-KCNE1 model-structure. The model-structure agrees with previous disulfide mapping studies and enables us to derive molecular interpretations of electrophysiological recordings that we obtained for two KCNE1 mutations. An elastic network analysis of Kv7.1 fluctuations in the presence and absence of KCNE1 suggests a mechanistic perspective on the known effects of KCNE1 on Kv7.1 function: slow deactivation is attributed to the low mobility of the voltage-sensor domains upon KCNE1 binding, abolishment of voltage-dependent inactivation could result from decreased fluctuations in the external vestibule, and amalgamation of the fluctuations in the pore region is associated with enhanced ion conductivity. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Laser weld jig

DOEpatents

Van Blarigan, Peter; Haupt, David L.

1982-01-01

A system is provided for welding a workpiece (10, FIG. 1) along a predetermined weld line (12) that may be of irregular shape, which includes the step of forming a lip (32) on the workpiece to extend parallel to the weld line, and moving the workpiece by engaging the lip between a pair of rotatable members (34, 36). Rotation of one of the members at a constant speed, causes the workpiece to move so that all points on the weld line sequentially pass a fixed point in space (17) at a constant speed, so that a laser welding beam can be directed at that fixed point to form a weld along the weld line. The workpiece can include a reuseable jig (24) forming the lip, and with the jig constructed to detachably hold parts (22, 20) to be welded at a position wherein the weld line of the parts extends parallel to the lip on the jig.

Welding Penetration Control of Fixed Pipe in TIG Welding Using Fuzzy Inference System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baskoro, Ario Sunar; Kabutomori, Masashi; Suga, Yasuo

This paper presents a study on welding penetration control of fixed pipe in Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding using fuzzy inference system. The welding penetration control is essential to the production quality welds with a specified geometry. For pipe welding using constant arc current and welding speed, the bead width becomes wider as the circumferential welding of small diameter pipes progresses. Having welded pipe in fixed position, obviously, the excessive arc current yields burn through of metals; in contrary, insufficient arc current produces imperfect welding. In order to avoid these errors and to obtain the uniform weld bead over the entire circumference of the pipe, the welding conditions should be controlled as the welding proceeds. This research studies the intelligent welding process of aluminum alloy pipe 6063S-T5 in fixed position using the AC welding machine. The monitoring system used a charge-coupled device (CCD) camera to monitor backside image of molten pool. The captured image was processed to recognize the edge of molten pool by image processing algorithm. Simulation of welding control using fuzzy inference system was constructed to simulate the welding control process. The simulation result shows that fuzzy controller was suitable for controlling the welding speed and appropriate to be implemented into the welding system. A series of experiments was conducted to evaluate the performance of the fuzzy controller. The experimental results show the effectiveness of the control system that is confirmed by sound welds.

Versatile Friction Stir Welding/Friction Plug Welding System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Carter, Robert

2006-01-01

A proposed system of tooling, machinery, and control equipment would be capable of performing any of several friction stir welding (FSW) and friction plug welding (FPW) operations. These operations would include the following: Basic FSW; FSW with automated manipulation of the length of the pin tool in real time [the so-called auto-adjustable pin-tool (APT) capability]; Self-reacting FSW (SRFSW); SR-FSW with APT capability and/or real-time adjustment of the distance between the front and back shoulders; and Friction plug welding (FPW) [more specifically, friction push plug welding] or friction pull plug welding (FPPW) to close out the keyhole of, or to repair, an FSW or SR-FSW weld. Prior FSW and FPW systems have been capable of performing one or two of these operations, but none has thus far been capable of performing all of them. The proposed system would include a common tool that would have APT capability for both basic FSW and SR-FSW. Such a tool was described in Tool for Two Types of Friction Stir Welding (MFS- 31647-1), NASA Tech Briefs, Vol. 30, No. 10 (October 2006), page 70. Going beyond what was reported in the cited previous article, the common tool could be used in conjunction with a plug welding head to perform FPW or FPPW. Alternatively, the plug welding head could be integrated, along with the common tool, into a FSW head that would be capable of all of the aforementioned FSW and FPW operations. Any FSW or FPW operation could be performed under any combination of position and/or force control.

Mapping the Interaction Anatomy of BmP02 on Kv1.3 Channel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, B.; Wu, B. F.; Feng, Y. J.; Tao, J.; Ji, Y. H.

2016-07-01

The potassium channel Kv 1.3 plays a vital part in the activation of T lymphocytes and is an attractive pharmacological target for autoimmune diseases. BmP02, a 28-residue peptide isolated from Chinese scorpion (Buthus martensi Karsch) venom, is a potent and selective Kv1.3 channel blocker. However, the mechanism through which BmP02 recognizes and inhibits the Kv1.3 channel is still unclear. In the present study, a complex molecular model of Kv1.3-BmP02 was developed by docking analysis and molecular dynamics simulations. From these simulations, it appears the large β-turn (residues 10-16) of BmP02 might be the binding interface with Kv 1.3. These results were confirmed by scanning alanine mutagenesis of BmP02, which identified His9, Lys11 and Lys13, which lie within BmP02’s β-turn, as key residues for interacting with Kv1.3. Based on these results and molecular modeling, two negatively charged residues of Kv1.3, D421 and D422, located in turret region, were predicted to act as the binding site for BmP02. Mutation of these residues reduced sensitivity of Kv 1.3 to BmP02 inhibition, suggesting that electrostatic interactions play a crucial role in Kv1.3-BmP02 interaction. This study revealed the molecular basis of Kv 1.3 recognition by BmP02 venom, and provides a novel interaction model for Kv channel-specific blocker complex, which may help guide future drug-design for Kv1.3-related channelopathies.

Catalytic reduction of carbonyl groups in oxidized PAPC by Kvβ2 (AKR6)

PubMed Central

Xie, Zhengzhi; Barski, Oleg A.; Cai, Jian; Bhatnagar, Aruni; Tipparaju, Srinivas M.

2011-01-01

The β-subunits of the voltage-gated potassium channel (Kvβ) belong to the aldo-keto reductase superfamily. The Kvβ-subunits dock with the pore-forming Kv α-subunits and impart or accelerate the rate of inactivation in Kv channels. Inactivation of Kv currents by Kvβ is differentially regulated by oxidized and reduced pyridine nucleotides. In mammals, AKR6 family is comprised of 3 different genes Kvβ1-3. We have shown previously that Kvβ2 catalyzes the reduction of a broad range of carbonyls including aromatic carbonyls, electrophilic aldehydes and prostaglandins. However, the endogenous substrates for Kvβ have not been identified. To determine whether products of lipid oxidation are substrates of Kvβs, we tested the enzymatic activity of Kvβ2 with oxidized phospholipids generated during the oxidation of 1-palmitoyl-2-arachidonoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (PAPC). Electrospray ionization mass spectrometric analysis showed that Kvβ2 catalyzed the NADPH-dependent reduction of several products of oxPAPC, including 1-palmitoyl-2-(5-oxovaleroyl)-sn-glycero-3-phosphorylcholine (POVPC), 1-palmitoyl-2-(epoxycyclopentenone)-sn-glycero-3-phosphorylcholine (PECPC), 1-palmitoyl-2-(5,6)- epoxyisoprostane E2-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (PEIPC). These results were validated using high resolution mass spectrometric analysis. Time course analysis revealed that the reduced products reached significant levels for ions at m/z 594/596 (POVPC/PHVPC), 810/812 (PECPC/2H-PECPC) and 828/830 (PEIPC/2H-PEIPC) in the oxPAPC + Kvβ2 mixture (p < 0.01). These results suggest that Kvβ could serve as a sensor of lipid oxidation via its catalytic activity and thereby alter Kv currents under conditions of oxidative stress. PMID:21296056

Monitoring the quality of welding based on welding current and ste analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mazlan, Afidatusshimah; Daniyal, Hamdan; Izzani Mohamed, Amir; Ishak, Mahadzir; Hadi, Amran Abdul

2017-10-01

Qualities of welding play an important part in industry especially in manufacturing field. Post-welding non-destructive test is one of the importance process to ensure the quality of welding but it is time consuming and costly. To reduce the chance of defects, online monitoring had been utilized by continuously sense some of welding parameters and predict welding quality. One of the parameters is welding current, which is rich of information but lack of study focus on extract them at signal analysis level. This paper presents the analysis of welding current using Short Time Energy (STE) signal processing to quantify the pattern of the current. GMAW set with carbon steel specimens are used in this experimental study with high-bandwidth and high sampling rate oscilloscope capturing the welding current. The results indicate welding current as signatures have high correlation with the welding process. Continue with STE analysis, the value below 5000 is declare as good welding, meanwhile the STE value more than 6000 is contained defect.

Characteristics of Extra Narrow Gap Weld of HSLA Steel Welded by Single-Seam per Layer Pulse Current GMA Weld Deposition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Agrawal, B. P.; Ghosh, P. K.

2017-03-01

Butt weld joints are produced using pulse current gas metal arc welding process by employing the technique of centrally laid multi-pass single-seam per layer weld deposition in extra narrow groove of thick HSLA steel plates. The weld joints are prepared by using different combination of pulse parameters. The selection of parameter of pulse current gas metal arc welding is done considering a summarized influence of simultaneously interacting pulse parameters defined by a dimensionless hypothetical factor ϕ. The effect of diverse pulse parameters on the characteristics of weld has been studied. Weld joint is also prepared by using commonly used multi-pass multi-seam per layer weld deposition in conventional groove. The extra narrow gap weld joints have been found much superior to the weld joint prepared by multi-pass multi-seam per layer deposition in conventional groove with respect to its metallurgical characteristics and mechanical properties.

Heterogeneity in Kv7 channel function in the cerebral and coronary circulation.

PubMed

Lee, Sewon; Yang, Yan; Tanner, Miles A; Li, Min; Hill, Michael A

2015-02-01

Kv7 channels are considered important regulators of vascular smooth muscle contractility. The present study aimed to examine the hypotheses that (i) Kv7 channels are present in mouse cerebral and coronary arteries and regulate vascular reactivity and (ii) regional differences exist in the activity of these channels. PCR confirmed that basilar, Circle of Willis and LAD arteries express predominantly Kv7.1 and 7.4. Western blot analysis, however, showed greater Kv7.4 protein levels in the cerebral vessels. Relaxation to the Kv7 channel activator, retigabine (1-50 μM) was significantly greater in the basilar artery compared to the LAD artery. Similarly, the Kv7 channel inhibitor, linopirdine (10 μM) caused a stronger contraction of the basilar artery. Furthermore, pre-incubation with linopirdine reduced forskolin (cAMP activator)-induced vasorelaxation in basilar while not altering forskolin-induced vasorelaxation of the LAD, suggesting that Kv7 channels play a more prominent role in the cerebral than in the coronary circulation. Consistent with the vessel data, whole cell Kv7 currents in cerebral VSMCs were potentiated by retigabine and inhibited by linopirdine, while these responses were blunted in coronary VSMCs. This study provides evidence that mouse Kv7 channels may contribute differently to regulating the functional properties of cerebral and coronary arteries. Such heterogeneity has important implications for developing novel therapeutics for cardiovascular dysfunction. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Fusion welding process

DOEpatents

Thomas, Kenneth C.; Jones, Eric D.; McBride, Marvin A.

1983-01-01

A process for the fusion welding of nickel alloy steel members wherein a ferrite containing pellet is inserted into a cavity in one member and melted by a welding torch. The resulting weld nugget, a fusion of the nickel containing alloy from the members to be welded and the pellet, has a composition which is sufficiently low in nickel content such that ferrite phases occur within the weld nugget, resulting in improved weld properties. The steel alloys encompassed also include alloys containing carbon and manganese, considered nickel equivalents.

49 CFR 192.717 - Transmission lines: Permanent field repair of leaks.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... encirclement welded split sleeve of appropriate design, unless the transmission line is joined by mechanical... method that reliable engineering tests and analyses show can permanently restore the serviceability of...

49 CFR 192.717 - Transmission lines: Permanent field repair of leaks.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... encirclement welded split sleeve of appropriate design, unless the transmission line is joined by mechanical... method that reliable engineering tests and analyses show can permanently restore the serviceability of...

49 CFR 192.717 - Transmission lines: Permanent field repair of leaks.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... encirclement welded split sleeve of appropriate design, unless the transmission line is joined by mechanical... method that reliable engineering tests and analyses show can permanently restore the serviceability of...

49 CFR 192.717 - Transmission lines: Permanent field repair of leaks.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... encirclement welded split sleeve of appropriate design, unless the transmission line is joined by mechanical... method that reliable engineering tests and analyses show can permanently restore the serviceability of...

Intelligent Weld Manufacturing: Role of Integrated Computational Welding Engineering

DOE PAGES

David, Stan A.; Chen, Jian; Feng, Zhili; ...

2017-12-02

A master welder uses his sensory perceptions to evaluate the process and connect them with his/her knowledge base to take the necessary corrective measures with his/her acquired skills to make a good weld. All these actions must take place in real time. Success depends on intuition and skills, and the procedure is labor-intensive and frequently unreliable. The solution is intelligent weld manufacturing. The ultimate goal of intelligent weld manufacturing would involve sensing and control of heat source position, weld temperature, weld penetration, defect formation and ultimately control of microstructure and properties. This involves a solution to a problem (welding) withmore » many highly coupled and nonlinear variables. The trend is to use an emerging tool known as intelligent control. This approach enables the user to choose a desirable end factor such as properties, defect control, or productivity to derive the selection of process parameters such as current, voltage, or speed to provide for appropriate control of the process. Important elements of intelligent manufacturing are sensing and control theory and design, process modeling, and artificial intelligence. Significant progress has been made in all these areas. Integrated computational welding engineering (ICWE) is an emerging field that will aid in the realization of intelligent weld manufacturing. The paper will discuss the progress in process modeling, microstructure, properties, and process control and automation and the importance of ICWE. Also, control and automation strategies for friction stir welding will be discussed.« less

Intelligent Weld Manufacturing: Role of Integrated Computational Welding Engineering

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

David, Stan A.; Chen, Jian; Feng, Zhili

A master welder uses his sensory perceptions to evaluate the process and connect them with his/her knowledge base to take the necessary corrective measures with his/her acquired skills to make a good weld. All these actions must take place in real time. Success depends on intuition and skills, and the procedure is labor-intensive and frequently unreliable. The solution is intelligent weld manufacturing. The ultimate goal of intelligent weld manufacturing would involve sensing and control of heat source position, weld temperature, weld penetration, defect formation and ultimately control of microstructure and properties. This involves a solution to a problem (welding) withmore » many highly coupled and nonlinear variables. The trend is to use an emerging tool known as intelligent control. This approach enables the user to choose a desirable end factor such as properties, defect control, or productivity to derive the selection of process parameters such as current, voltage, or speed to provide for appropriate control of the process. Important elements of intelligent manufacturing are sensing and control theory and design, process modeling, and artificial intelligence. Significant progress has been made in all these areas. Integrated computational welding engineering (ICWE) is an emerging field that will aid in the realization of intelligent weld manufacturing. The paper will discuss the progress in process modeling, microstructure, properties, and process control and automation and the importance of ICWE. Also, control and automation strategies for friction stir welding will be discussed.« less

The importance of immunohistochemical analyses in evaluating the phenotype of Kv channel knockout mice.

PubMed

Menegola, Milena; Clark, Eliana; Trimmer, James S

2012-06-01

To gain insights into the phenotype of voltage-gated potassium (Kv)1.1 and Kv4.2 knockout mice, we used immunohistochemistry to analyze the expression of component principal or α subunits and auxiliary subunits of neuronal Kv channels in knockout mouse brains. Genetic ablation of the Kv1.1 α subunit did not result in compensatory changes in the expression levels or subcellular distribution of related ion channel subunits in hippocampal medial perforant path and mossy fiber nerve terminals, where high levels of Kv1.1 are normally expressed. Genetic ablation of the Kv4.2 α subunit did not result in altered neuronal cytoarchitecture of the hippocampus. Although Kv4.2 knockout mice did not exhibit compensatory changes in the expression levels or subcellular distribution of the related Kv4.3 α subunit, we found dramatic decreases in the cellular and subcellular expression of specific Kv channel interacting proteins (KChIPs) that reflected their degree of association and colocalization with Kv4.2 in wild-type mouse and rat brains. These studies highlight the insights that can be gained by performing detailed immunohistochemical analyses of Kv channel knockout mouse brains. Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2012 International League Against Epilepsy.

Effect of process parameters on microstructure and mechanical properties of friction stir welded joints: A review

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wanare, S. P.; Kalyankar, V. D.

2018-04-01

Friction stir welding is emerging as a promising technique for joining of lighter metal alloys due to its several advantages over conventional fusion welding processes such as low thermal distortion, good mechanical properties, fine weld joint microstructure, etc. This review article mainly focuses on analysis of microstructure and mechanical properties of friction stir welded joints. Various microstructure characterization techniques used by previous researchers such as optical microscopes, x-ray diffraction, electron probe microscope, transmission electron microscope, scanning electron microscopes with electron back scattered diffraction, electron dispersive microscopy, etc. are thoroughly overviewed and their results are discussed. The effects of friction stir welding process parameters such as tool rotational speed, welding speed, tool plunge depth, axial force, tool shoulder diameter to tool pin diameter ratio, tool geometry etc. on microstructure and mechanical properties of welded joints are studied and critical observations are noted down. The microstructure examination carried out by previous researchers on various zones of welded joints such as weld zone, heat affected zone and base metal are studied and critical remarks have been presented. Mechanical performances of friction stir welded joints based on tensile test, micro-hardness test, etc. are discussed. This article includes exhaustive literature review of standard research articles which may become ready information for subsequent researchers to establish their line of action.

Simulation study on transient electric shock characteristics of human body under high voltage ac transmission lines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Tao; Zou, Yanhui; Lv, Jianhong; Yang, Jinchun; Tao, Li; Zhou, Jianfei

2017-09-01

Human body under high-voltage AC transmission lines will produce a certain induced voltage due to the electrostatic induction. When the human body contacts with some grounded objects, the charges transfer from the body to the ground and produce contact current which may cause transient electric shock. Using CDEGS and ATP/EMTP, the paper proposes a method for quantitatively calculating the transient electric shock characteristics. It calculates the human body voltage, discharge current and discharge energy under certain 500kV compact-type transmission lines and predicts the corresponding human feelings. The results show that the average root value of discharge current is less than 10mA when the human body is under the 500kV compact-type transmission lines and the human body is overall safe if the transmission lines satisfy the relevant design specifications. It concludes that the electric field strength above the ground should be limited to 4kV/m through the residential area for the purpose of reducing the electromagnetic impact.

Analysis of the 35 KV substation secondary system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Yong; Jiang, Jianguo; Jiang, Chunlei; Ren, Shuang; Liu, Songbin

2017-04-01

This paper analyzes the status of the two system of some 35KV users' substation in Daqing oil field, the deficiencies of the two system of the existing 35KV substation are found out. And put forward the opinion of acceptance in the future work. I hope it can able to work in the future on the protection of professional help.

Welding polarity effects on weld spatters and bead geometry of hyperbaric dry GMAW

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xue, Long; Wu, Jinming; Huang, Junfen; Huang, Jiqiang; Zou, Yong; Liu, Jian

2016-03-01

Welding polarity has influence on welding stability to some extent, but the specific relationship between welding polarity and weld quality has not been found, especially under the hyperbaric environment. Based on a hyperbaric dry welding experiment system, gas metal arc welding(GMAW) experiments with direct current electrode positive(DCEP) and direct current electrode negative(DCEN) operations are carried out under the ambient pressures of 0.1 MPa, 0.4 MPa, 0.7 MPa and 1.0 MPa to find the influence rule of different welding polarities on welding spatters and weld bead geometry. The effects of welding polarities on the weld bead geometry such as the reinforcement, the weld width and the penetration are discussed. The experimental results show that the welding spatters gradually grow in quantity and size for GMAW with DCEP, while GMAW with DCEN can produce fewer spatters comparatively with the increase of the ambient pressure. Compared with DCEP, the welding current and arc voltage waveforms for DCEN is more stable and the distribution of welding current probability density for DCEN is more concentrated under the hyperbaric environment. When the ambient pressure is increased from 0.1 MPa to 1.0 MPa, the effects of welding polarities on the reinforcement, the weld width and the penetration are as follows: an increase of 0.8 mm for the weld reinforcement is produced by GMAW with DCEN and 1.3 mm by GMAW with DCEP, a decrease of 7.2 mm for the weld width is produced by DCEN and 6.1 mm by DCEP; and an increase of 3.9 mm for the penetration is produced by DCEN and 1.9 mm by DCEP. The proposed research indicates that the desirable stability in the welding procedure can be achieved by GMAW with DCEN operation under the hyperbaric environment.

Weld procedure produces quality welds for thick sections of Hastelloy-X

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Flens, F. J.; Fletcher, C. W.; Glasier, L. F., Jr.

1967-01-01

Welding program produces premium quality, multipass welds in heavy tube sections of Hastelloy-X. It develops semiautomatic tungsten/inert gas procedures, weld wire procurement specifications material weld properties, welder-operator training, and nondestructive testing inspection techniques and procedures.

Microstructure and Corrosion Resistance of Laser-Welded Crossed Nitinol Wires.

PubMed

Dong, Peng; Yao, Runhua; Yan, Zheng; Yan, Zhifeng; Wang, Wenxian; He, Xiuli; Zhou, Jun

2018-05-18

Laser welding has been considered to be one of the most promising joining processes for Nitinol medical device manufacturing. Presently, there is still a limited understanding about how laser welding affects the microstructure and the resultant corrosion behaviors. This work aimed to reveal the microstructural factors that influence the corrosion resistance of laser-welded crossed Nitinol joints. The microstructures within various zones of the joints were characterized by using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and the corrosion behaviors of the joints in 0.9% NaCl and Hank's solutions were studied. The base metal exhibits a single austenite (B2) phase and the highest corrosion resistance. The phase constituent of the fusion zone is the coexistence of the B2 matrix and some precipitates (T₂Ni, TiNi 3, and Ti₃Ni₄ particles), resulting in a slight decrease in corrosion resistance. The heat affected zone (HAZ) shows the austenite matrix but with the precipitation of R-phase, which considerably reduces the corrosion potential, making it the weakest zone.

Basic Welding Skills. Welding Module 1. Instructor's Guide.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Missouri Univ., Columbia. Instructional Materials Lab.

This guide is intended to assist vocational educators in teaching a six-unit module in basic welding skills. The module is part of a welding curriculum that has been designed to be totally integrated with Missouri's Vocational Instruction Management System. The following topics are covered in the module: the welding profession, personal safety,…

Advanced Welding Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ding, Robert J.

2010-01-01

Some of the applications of advanced welding techniques are shown in this poster presentation. Included are brief explanations of the use on the Ares I and Ares V launch vehicle and on the Space Shuttle Launch vehicle. Also included are microstructural views from four advanced welding techniques: Variable Polarity Plasma Arc (VPPA) weld (fusion), self-reacting friction stir welding (SR-FSW), conventional FSW, and Tube Socket Weld (TSW) on aluminum.

High power thyristors with 5 kV blocking voltage. Volume 1: Development of high-voltage-thyristors (4.5 kV) with good dynamic properties

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lock, K.; Patalong, H.; Platzoeder, K.

1979-01-01

Using neutron irradiated silicon with considerably lower spread in resistivity as compared to conventionally doped silicon it was possible to produce power thyristors with breakdown voltages between 3.5 kV and 5.5 kV. The thyristor pellets have a diameter of 50 mm. Maximum average on-state currents of 600 to 800 A can be reached with these elements. The dynamic properties of the thryistors could be improved to allow standard applications up to maximum repetitive voltages of 4.5 kV.

Reduction of Biomechanical and Welding Fume Exposures in Stud Welding

PubMed Central

Fethke, Nathan B.; Peters, Thomas M.; Leonard, Stephanie; Metwali, Mahmoud; Mudunkotuwa, Imali A.

2016-01-01

The welding of shear stud connectors to structural steel in construction requires a prolonged stooped posture that exposes ironworkers to biomechanical and welding fume hazards. In this study, biomechanical and welding fume exposures during stud welding using conventional methods were compared to exposures associated with use of a prototype system that allowed participants to weld from an upright position. The effect of base material (i.e. bare structural beam versus galvanized decking) on welding fume concentration (particle number and mass), particle size distribution, and particle composition was also explored. Thirty participants completed a series of stud welding simulations in a local apprenticeship training facility. Use of the upright system was associated with substantial reductions in trunk inclination and the activity levels of several muscle groups. Inhalable mass concentrations of welding fume (averaged over ~18min) when using conventional methods were high (18.2mg m−3 for bare beam; 65.7mg m−3 for through deck), with estimated mass concentrations of iron (7.8mg m−3 for bare beam; 15.8mg m−3 for through deck), zinc (0.2mg m−3 for bare beam; 15.8mg m−3 for through deck), and manganese (0.9mg m−3 for bare beam; 1.5mg m−3 for through deck) often exceeding the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists Threshold Limit Values (TLVs). Number and mass concentrations were substantially reduced when using the upright system, although the total inhalable mass concentration remained above the TLV when welding through decking. The average diameters of the welding fume particles for both bare beam (31±17nm) through deck conditions (34±34nm) and the chemical composition of the particles indicated the presence of metallic nanoparticles. Stud welding exposes ironworkers to potentially high levels of biomechanical loading (primarily to the low back) and welding fume. The upright system used in this study improved exposure levels during

WELDING METHOD

DOEpatents

Cornell, A.A.; Dunbar, J.V.; Ruffner, J.H.

1959-09-29

A semi-automatic method is described for the weld joining of pipes and fittings which utilizes the inert gasshielded consumable electrode electric arc welding technique, comprising laying down the root pass at a first peripheral velocity and thereafter laying down the filler passes over the root pass necessary to complete the weld by revolving the pipes and fittings at a second peripheral velocity different from the first peripheral velocity, maintaining the welding head in a fixed position as to the specific direction of revolution, while the longitudinal axis of the welding head is disposed angularly in the direction of revolution at amounts between twenty minutas and about four degrees from the first position.

Friction stir welding tool and process for welding dissimilar materials

DOEpatents

Hovanski, Yuri; Grant, Glenn J; Jana, Saumyadeep; Mattlin, Karl F

2013-05-07

A friction stir welding tool and process for lap welding dissimilar materials are detailed. The invention includes a cutter scribe that penetrates and extrudes a first material of a lap weld stack to a preselected depth and further cuts a second material to provide a beneficial geometry defined by a plurality of mechanically interlocking features. The tool backfills the interlocking features generating a lap weld across the length of the interface between the dissimilar materials that enhances the shear strength of the lap weld.

Preliminary Results of the 115 kJ Dense Plasma Focus Device IR-MPF-100

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Salehizadeh, A.; Sadighzadeh, A.; Movahhed, M. Sedaghat; Zaeem, A. A.; Heidarnia, A.; Sabri, R.; Mahmoudi, M. Bakhshzad; Rahimi, H.; Rahimi, S.; Johari, E.; Torabi, M.; Damideh, V.

2013-04-01

This work summarizes the design and construction of the first Iranian 115 kJ Mather type plasma focus (PF) machine (IR-MPF-100). This machine consists of a 6.25 cm radius and 22 cm height brass made anode with a 50 mm height insulator which separates the anode and cathode electrodes. Twelve copper made 22 cm height rods play the role of cathode with 10.2 cm radius. Twenty four 6 μF capacitors were used with the maximum charging voltage of 40 kV (maximum energy of 115 kJ) as the capacitor bank and maximum theoretical current around 1.224 MA. The total inductance of the system is 120 nH. By using NE-102 plastic Scintillator, Rogowski coil, current and voltage probes, hard X-ray, current derivative, current and voltage signals of IR-MPF-100 were measured. The primary result of neutron detection by neutron activation counter represents approximately 109 neutrons per shot at 65 kJ discharge energy while using deuterium filling gas. Also IR-MPF-100 PF has been tested successfully at 90 kJ by using the argon gas.

Syllabus in Trade Welding.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

New York State Education Dept., Albany. Bureau of Secondary Curriculum Development.

The syllabus outlines material for a course two academic years in length (minimum two and one-half hours daily experience) leading to entry-level occupational ability in several welding trade areas. Fourteen units covering are welding, gas welding, oxyacetylene welding, cutting, nonfusion processes, inert gas shielded-arc welding, welding cast…

Activation of KV7 channels stimulates vasodilatation of human placental chorionic plate arteries.

PubMed

Mills, T A; Greenwood, S L; Devlin, G; Shweikh, Y; Robinson, M; Cowley, E; Hayward, C E; Cottrell, E C; Tropea, T; Brereton, M F; Dalby-Brown, W; Wareing, M

2015-06-01

Potassium (K(+)) channels are key regulators of vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) excitability. In systemic small arteries, Kv7 channel expression/activity has been noted and a role in vascular tone regulation demonstrated. We aimed to demonstrate functional Kv7 channels in human fetoplacental small arteries. Human placental chorionic plate arteries (CPAs) were obtained at term. CPA responses to Kv7 channel modulators was determined by wire myography. Presence of Kv7 channel mRNA (encoded by KCNQ1-5) and protein expression were assessed by RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry/immunofluorescence, respectively. Kv7 channel blockade with linopirdine increased CPA basal tone and AVP-induced contraction. Pre-contracted CPAs (AVP; 80 mM K(+) depolarization solution) exhibited significant relaxation to flupirtine, retigabine, the acrylamide (S)-1, and (S) BMS-204352, differential activators of Kv7.1 - Kv7.5 channels. All CPAs assessed expressed KCNQ1 and KCNQ3-5 mRNA; KCNQ2 was expressed only in a subset of CPAs. Kv7 protein expression was confirmed in intact CPAs and isolated VSMCs. Kv7 channels are present and active in fetoplacental vessels, contributing to vascular tone regulation in normal pregnancy. Targeting these channels may represent a therapeutic intervention in pregnancies complicated by increased vascular resistance. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Lower KV7.5 Potassium Channel Subunit Expression in an Animal Model of Paroxysmal Dystonia.

PubMed

Sander, Svenja E; Diwan, Mustansir; Raymond, Roger; Nobrega, José N; Richter, Angelika

2016-01-01

Dystonia is a hyperkinetic disabling movement disorder. In the dt(sz) hamster, a model of paroxysmal dystonia, pronounced antidystonic effects of the KV7.2-5 potassium channel opener retigabine and aggravation of dystonia by a selective KV7.2-5 blocker indicated a pathophysiological role of an abnormal expression of KV7 channels. We therefore investigated the expression of KV7 subunits in brains of dystonic hamsters. While KV7.2 and KV7.3 subunits were unaltered, lower KV7.5 mRNA levels became evident in motor areas and in limbic structures of dystonic hamsters. The KV7.2/3 subunit-preferring channel opener N-(6-chloropyridin-3-yl)-3,4- difluorobenzamide (ICA 27243; 10-30 mg/kg i.p.) failed to reduce the severity of dystonia in mutant hamsters, suggesting that the previously observed antidystonic action of retigabine is mediated by the activation of KV7.5 channels. The experiments indicate a functional relevance for KV7.5 channels in paroxysmal dystonia. We suggest that compounds highly selective for subtypes of KV7 channels, i.e. for KV7.5, may provide new therapeutic approaches.

Latest MIG, TIG arc-YAG laser hybrid welding systems for various welding products

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ishide, Takashi; Tsubota, Shuho; Watanabe, Masao

2003-03-01

Laser welding is capable of high-efficiency low-strain welding, and so its applications are started to various products. We have also put the high-power YAG laser of up to 10 kW to practical welding use for various products. On the other hand the weakest point of this laser welding is considered to be strict in the welding gap aiming allowance. In order to solve this problem, we have developed hybrid welding of TIG, MIG arc and YAG laser, taking the most advantages of both the laser and arc welding. Since the electrode is coaxial to the optical axis of the YAG laser in this process, it can be applied to welding of various objects. In the coaxial MIG, TIG-YAG welding, in order to make irradiation positions of the YAG laser beams having been guided in a wire or an electrode focused to the same position, the beam transmitted in fibers is separated to form a space between the separated beams, in which the laser is guided. With this method the beam-irradiating area can be brought near or to the arc-generating point. This enables welding of all directions even for the member of a three-dimensional shape. This time we carried out welding for various materials and have made their welding of up to 1 mm or more in welding groove gap possible. We have realized high-speed 1-pass butt welding of 4m/min in welding speed with the laser power of 3 kW for an aluminum alloy plate of approximately 4 mm thick. For a mild steel plate also we have realized butt welding of 1m/min with 5 kW for 6 mm thick. Further, in welding of stainless steel we have shown its welding possibility, by stabilizing the arc with the YAG laser in the welding atmosphere of pure argon, and shown that this welding is effective in high-efficiency welding of various materials. Here we will report the fundamental welding performances and applications to various objects for the coaxial MIG, TIG-YAG welding we have developed.

Friction Stir Welding of Tapered Thickness Welds Using an Adjustable Pin Tool

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Adams, Glynn; Venable, Richard; Lawless, Kirby

2003-01-01

Friction stir welding (FSW) can be used for joining weld lands that vary in thickness along the length of the weld. An adjustable pin tool mechanism can be used to accomplish this in a single-pass, full-penetration weld by providing for precise changes in the pin length relative to the shoulder face during the weld process. The difficulty with this approach is in accurately adjusting the pin length to provide a consistent penetration ligament throughout the weld. The weld technique, control system, and instrumentation must account for mechanical and thermal compliances of the tooling system to conduct tapered welds successfully. In this study, a combination of static and in-situ measurements, as well as active control, is used to locate the pin accurately and maintain the desired penetration ligament. Frictional forces at the pin/shoulder interface were a source of error that affected accurate pin position. A traditional FSW pin tool design that requires a lead angle was used to join butt weld configurations that included both constant thickness and tapered sections. The pitch axis of the tooling was fixed throughout the weld; therefore, the effective lead angle in the tapered sections was restricted to within the tolerances allowed by the pin tool design. The sensitivity of the FSW process to factors such as thickness offset, joint gap, centerline offset, and taper transition offset were also studied. The joint gap and the thickness offset demonstrated the most adverse affects on the weld quality. Two separate tooling configurations were used to conduct tapered thickness welds successfully. The weld configurations included sections in which the thickness decreased along the weld, as well as sections in which the thickness increased along the weld. The data presented here include weld metallography, strength data, and process load data.

The technology and welding joint properties of hybrid laser-tig welding on thick plate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shenghai, Zhang; Yifu, Shen; Huijuan, Qiu

2013-06-01

The technologies of autogenous laser welding and hybrid laser-TIG welding are used on thick plate of high strength lower alloy structural steel 10CrNiMnMoV in this article. The unique advantages of hybrid laser-TIG welding is summarized by comparing and analyzing the process parameters and welding joints of autogenous laser welding laser welding and hybrid laser-TIG welding. With the optimal process parameters of hybrid welding, the good welding joint without visible flaws can be obtained and its mechanical properties are tested according to industry standards. The results show that the hybrid welding technology has certain advantages and possibility in welding thick plates. It can reduce the demands of laser power, and it is significant for lowering the aspect ratio of weld during hybrid welding, so the gas in the molten pool can rise and escape easily while welding thick plates. Therefore, the pores forming tendency decreases. At the same time, hybrid welding enhances welding speed, and optimizes the energy input. The transition and grain size of the microstructure of hybrid welding joint is better and its hardness is higher than base material. Furthermore, its tensile strength and impact toughness is as good as base material. Consequently, the hybrid welding joint can meet the industry needs completely.

Laser Welding of Shape Memory Alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oliveira, Joao Pedro de Sousa

Joining of shape memory alloys is of great importance for both functional and structural applications as it can provide an increased design flexibility. In this work similar NiTi/NiTi, CuAlMn/CuAlMn and dissimilar NiTi/Ti6Al4V joints were produced by Nd:YAG laser. For the NiTi/NiTi joints the effect of process parameters (namely the heat input) on the superelastic and shape memory effects of the joints was assessed and correlated to its microstructure. Microstructural analysis was performed by means of X-ray diffraction using synchrotron radiation, which allowed for fine probing of the welded material. It was noticed the presence of martensite in the thermally affected regions, while the base material remained fully austenitic. The mechanisms for the formation of martensite, at room temperature, due to the welding procedure are presented and the influence of this phase on the functional properties of the joints is discussed. Additionally, the residual stresses were determined using synchrotron X-ray diffraction. For the dissimilar NiTi/Ti6Al4V joints, a Niobium interlayer was used to prevent the formation undesired brittle intermetallic compounds. Additionally, it was observed that positioning of the laser beam was of significant importance to obtain a sound joint. The mechanisms responsible for the joint formation are discussed based on observations with advanced characterization techniques, such as transmission electron microscopy. At the NiTi/Nb interface, an eutectic reaction promotes joining of the two materials, while at the Ti6Al4V/Nb interface fusion and, subsequent solidification of the Ti6Al4V was responsible for joining. Short distance diffusion of Nb to the fusion zone of Ti6Al4V was observed. Although fracture of the dissimilar welded joints occurred at a stress lower than the minimum required for the stress induced transformation, an improvement on the microstructure and mechanical properties, relatively to existing literature, was obtained. Finally

Anti-voltage-gated potassium channel Kv1.4 antibodies in myasthenia gravis.

PubMed

Romi, Fredrik; Suzuki, Shigeaki; Suzuki, Norihiro; Petzold, Axel; Plant, Gordon T; Gilhus, Nils Erik

2012-07-01

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease characterized by skeletal muscle weakness mainly caused by acetylcholine receptor antibodies. MG can be divided into generalized and ocular, and into early-onset (<50 years of age) and late-onset (≥50 years of age). Anti-Kv1.4 antibodies targeting α-subunits (Kv1.4) of the voltage-gated potassium K(+) channel occurs frequently among patients with severe MG, accounting for 18% of a Japanese MG population. The aim of this study was to characterize the clinical features and serological associations of anti-Kv1.4 antibodies in a Caucasian MG population with mild and localized MG. Serum samples from 129 Caucasian MG patients with mainly ocular symptoms were tested for the presence of anti-Kv1.4 antibodies and compared to clinical and serological parameters. There were 22 (17%) anti-Kv1.4 antibody-positive patients, most of them women with late-onset MG, and all of them with mild MG. This contrasts to the Japanese anti-Kv1.4 antibody-positive patients who suffered from severe MG with bulbar symptoms, myasthenic crisis, thymoma, myocarditis and prolonged QT time on electrocardiography, despite equal anti-Kv1.4 antibody occurrence in both populations. No other clinical or serological parameters influenced anti-Kv1.4 antibody occurrence.

TRPC6-mediated ERK1/2 Activation Regulates Neuronal Excitability via Subcellular Kv4.3 Localization in the Rat Hippocampus

PubMed Central

Kim, Ji-Eun; Park, Jin-Young; Kang, Tae-Cheon

2017-01-01

Recently, we have reported that transient receptor potential channel-6 (TRPC6) plays an important role in the regulation of neuronal excitability and synchronization of spiking activity in the dentate granule cells (DGC). However, the underlying mechanisms of TRPC6 in these phenomena have been still unclear. In the present study, we investigated the role of TRPC6 in subcellular localization of Kv4.3 and its relevance to neuronal excitability in the rat hippocampus. TRPC6 knockdown increased excitability and inhibitory transmission in the DGC and the CA1 neurons in response to a paired-pulse stimulus. However, TRPC6 knockdown impaired γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic inhibition in the hippocampus during and after high-frequency stimulation (HFS). TRPC6 knockdown reduced the Kv4.3 clusters in membrane fractions and its dendritic localization on DGC and GABAergic interneurons. TRPC6 knockdown also decreased extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) phosphorylation and the efficacy of 4-aminopyridine (4-AP) in neuronal excitability. An ERK1/2 inhibitor generated multiple population spikes in response to a paired-pulse stimulus, concomitant with reduced membrane Kv4.3 translocation. A TRPC6 activator (hyperforin) reversed the effects of TRPC knockdown, except paired-pulse inhibition. These findings provide valuable clues indicating that TRPC6-mediated ERK1/2 activation may regulate subcellular Kv4.3 localization in DGC and interneurons, which is cause-effect relationship between neuronal excitability and seizure susceptibility. PMID:29326557

Survey of welding processes.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2003-07-01

The current KYTC SPECIAL PROVISION NO. 4 WELDING STEEL BRIDGES prohibits the use of welding processes other than shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) and submerged arc welding (SAW). Nationally, bridge welding is codified under ANSI/AASHTO/AWS D1....

RNA interference-based functional knockdown of the voltage-gated potassium channel Kv7.2 in dorsal root ganglion neurons after in vitro and in vivo gene transfer by adeno-associated virus vectors.

PubMed

Valdor, Markus; Wagner, Anke; Röhrs, Viola; Berg, Johanna; Fechner, Henry; Schröder, Wolfgang; Tzschentke, Thomas M; Bahrenberg, Gregor; Christoph, Thomas; Kurreck, Jens

2018-01-01

Activation of the neuronal potassium channel Kv7.2 encoded by the KCNQ2 gene has recently been shown to be an attractive mechanism to inhibit nociceptive transmission. However, potent, selective, and clinically proven activators of Kv7.2/Kv7.3 currents with analgesic properties are still lacking. An important prerequisite for the development of new drugs is a model to test the selectivity of novel agonists by abrogating Kv7.2/Kv7.3 function. Since constitutive knockout mice are not viable, we developed a model based on RNA interference-mediated silencing of KCNQ2. By delivery of a KCNQ2-specific short hairpin RNA with adeno-associated virus vectors, we completely abolished the activity of the specific Kv7.2/Kv7.3-opener ICA-27243 in rat sensory neurons. Results obtained in the silencing experiments were consistent between freshly prepared and cryopreserved dorsal root ganglion neurons, as well as in dorsal root ganglion neurons dissociated and cultured after in vivo administration of the silencing vector by intrathecal injections into rats. Interestingly, the tested associated virus serotypes substantially differed with respect to their transduction capability in cultured neuronal cell lines and primary dorsal root ganglion neurons and the in vivo transfer of transgenes by intrathecal injection of associated virus vectors. However, our study provides the proof-of-concept that RNA interference-mediated silencing of KCNQ2 is a suitable approach to create an ex vivo model for testing the specificity of novel Kv7.2/Kv7.3 agonists.

Simplified welding distortion analysis for fillet welding using composite shell elements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Mingyu; Kang, Minseok; Chung, Hyun

2015-09-01

This paper presents the simplified welding distortion analysis method to predict the welding deformation of both plate and stiffener in fillet welds. Currently, the methods based on equivalent thermal strain like Strain as Direct Boundary (SDB) has been widely used due to effective prediction of welding deformation. Regarding the fillet welding, however, those methods cannot represent deformation of both members at once since the temperature degree of freedom is shared at the intersection nodes in both members. In this paper, we propose new approach to simulate deformation of both members. The method can simulate fillet weld deformations by employing composite shell element and using different thermal expansion coefficients according to thickness direction with fixed temperature at intersection nodes. For verification purpose, we compare of result from experiments, 3D thermo elastic plastic analysis, SDB method and proposed method. Compared of experiments results, the proposed method can effectively predict welding deformation for fillet welds.

Welding Technician

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Smith, Ken

2009-01-01

About 95% of all manufactured goods in this country are welded or joined in some way. These welded products range in nature from bicycle handlebars and skyscrapers to bridges and race cars. The author discusses what students need to know about careers for welding technicians--wages, responsibilities, skills needed, career advancement…

METHOD OF OBTAINING AN IMPROVED WELD IN INERT ARC WELDING

DOEpatents

Correy, T.B.

1962-12-11

A method is reported for inert arc welding. An a-c welding current is applied to the workpiece and welding electrode such that the positive portion of each cycle thereof, with the electrode positive, has only sufficient energy to clean the surface of the workpiece and the negative portion of each cycle thereof, with the electrode negative, contains the energy required to weld. (AEC)

Mechanisms of Calmodulin Regulation of Different Isoforms of Kv7.4 K+ Channels.

PubMed

Sihn, Choong-Ryoul; Kim, Hyo Jeong; Woltz, Ryan L; Yarov-Yarovoy, Vladimir; Yang, Pei-Chi; Xu, Jun; Clancy, Colleen E; Zhang, Xiao-Dong; Chiamvimonvat, Nipavan; Yamoah, Ebenezer N

2016-01-29

Calmodulin (CaM), a Ca(2+)-sensing protein, is constitutively bound to IQ domains of the C termini of human Kv7 (hKv7, KCNQ) channels to mediate Ca(2+)-dependent reduction of Kv7 currents. However, the mechanism remains unclear. We report that CaM binds to two isoforms of the hKv7.4 channel in a Ca(2+)-independent manner but that only the long isoform (hKv7.4a) is regulated by Ca(2+)/CaM. Ca(2+)/CaM mediate reduction of the hKv7.4a channel by decreasing the channel open probability and altering activation kinetics. We took advantage of a known missense mutation (G321S) that has been linked to progressive hearing loss to further examine the inhibitory effects of Ca(2+)/CaM on the Kv7.4 channel. Using multidisciplinary techniques, we demonstrate that the G321S mutation may destabilize CaM binding, leading to a decrease in the inhibitory effects of Ca(2+) on the channels. Our study utilizes an expression system to dissect the biophysical properties of the WT and mutant Kv7.4 channels. This report provides mechanistic insights into the critical roles of Ca(2+)/CaM regulation of the Kv7.4 channel under physiological and pathological conditions. © 2016 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

Retigabine, a Kv7.2/Kv7.3-Channel Opener, Attenuates Drug-Induced Seizures in Knock-In Mice Harboring Kcnq2 Mutations.

PubMed

Ihara, Yukiko; Tomonoh, Yuko; Deshimaru, Masanobu; Zhang, Bo; Uchida, Taku; Ishii, Atsushi; Hirose, Shinichi

2016-01-01

The hetero-tetrameric voltage-gated potassium channel Kv7.2/Kv7.3, which is encoded by KCNQ2 and KCNQ3, plays an important role in limiting network excitability in the neonatal brain. Kv7.2/Kv7.3 dysfunction resulting from KCNQ2 mutations predominantly causes self-limited or benign epilepsy in neonates, but also causes early onset epileptic encephalopathy. Retigabine (RTG), a Kv7.2/ Kv7.3-channel opener, seems to be a rational antiepileptic drug for epilepsies caused by KCNQ2 mutations. We therefore evaluated the effects of RTG on seizures in two strains of knock-in mice harboring different Kcnq2 mutations, in comparison to the effects of phenobarbital (PB), which is the first-line antiepileptic drug for seizures in neonates. The subjects were heterozygous knock-in mice (Kcnq2Y284C/+ and Kcnq2A306T/+) bearing the Y284C or A306T Kcnq2 mutation, respectively, and their wild-type (WT) littermates, at 63-100 days of age. Seizures induced by intraperitoneal injection of kainic acid (KA, 12mg/kg) were recorded using a video-electroencephalography (EEG) monitoring system. Effects of RTG on KA-induced seizures of both strains of knock-in mice were assessed using seizure scores from a modified Racine's scale and compared with those of PB. The number and total duration of spike bursts on EEG and behaviors monitored by video recording were also used to evaluate the effects of RTG and PB. Both Kcnq2Y284C/+ and Kcnq2A306T/+ mice showed significantly more KA-induced seizures than WT mice. RTG significantly attenuated KA-induced seizure activities in both Kcnq2Y284C/+ and Kcnq2A306T/+ mice, and more markedly than PB. This is the first reported evidence of RTG ameliorating KA-induced seizures in knock-in mice bearing mutations of Kcnq2, with more marked effects than those observed with PB. RTG or other Kv7.2-channel openers may be considered as first-line antiepileptic treatments for epilepsies resulting from KCNQ2 mutations.

Introduction to Welding.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fortney, Clarence; Gregory, Mike

This curriculum guide provides six units of instruction on basic welding. Addressed in the individual units of instruction are the following topics: employment opportunities for welders, welding safety and first aid, welding tools and equipment, basic metals and metallurgy, basic math and measuring, and procedures for applying for a welding job.…

Reduction of Biomechanical and Welding Fume Exposures in Stud Welding.

PubMed

Fethke, Nathan B; Peters, Thomas M; Leonard, Stephanie; Metwali, Mahmoud; Mudunkotuwa, Imali A

2016-04-01

The welding of shear stud connectors to structural steel in construction requires a prolonged stooped posture that exposes ironworkers to biomechanical and welding fume hazards. In this study, biomechanical and welding fume exposures during stud welding using conventional methods were compared to exposures associated with use of a prototype system that allowed participants to weld from an upright position. The effect of base material (i.e. bare structural beam versus galvanized decking) on welding fume concentration (particle number and mass), particle size distribution, and particle composition was also explored. Thirty participants completed a series of stud welding simulations in a local apprenticeship training facility. Use of the upright system was associated with substantial reductions in trunk inclination and the activity levels of several muscle groups. Inhalable mass concentrations of welding fume (averaged over ~18 min) when using conventional methods were high (18.2 mg m(-3) for bare beam; 65.7 mg m(-3) for through deck), with estimated mass concentrations of iron (7.8 mg m(-3) for bare beam; 15.8 mg m(-3) for through deck), zinc (0.2 mg m(-3) for bare beam; 15.8 mg m(-3) for through deck), and manganese (0.9 mg m(-3) for bare beam; 1.5 mg m(-3) for through deck) often exceeding the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists Threshold Limit Values (TLVs). Number and mass concentrations were substantially reduced when using the upright system, although the total inhalable mass concentration remained above the TLV when welding through decking. The average diameters of the welding fume particles for both bare beam (31±17 nm) through deck conditions (34±34 nm) and the chemical composition of the particles indicated the presence of metallic nanoparticles. Stud welding exposes ironworkers to potentially high levels of biomechanical loading (primarily to the low back) and welding fume. The upright system used in this study improved exposure

A Role for DPPX Modulating External TEA Sensitivity of Kv4 Channels

PubMed Central

Colinas, Olaia; Pérez-Carretero, Francisco D.; López-López, José R.; Pérez-García, M. Teresa

2008-01-01

Shal-type (Kv4) channels are expressed in a large variety of tissues, where they contribute to transient voltage-dependent K+ currents. Kv4 are the molecular correlate of the A-type current of neurons (ISA), the fast component of ITO current in the heart, and also of the oxygen-sensitive K+ current (KO2) in rabbit carotid body (CB) chemoreceptor cells. The enormous degree of variability in the physiological properties of Kv4-mediated currents can be attributable to the complexity of their regulation together with the large number of ancillary subunits and scaffolding proteins that associate with Kv4 proteins to modify their trafficking and their kinetic properties. Among those, KChIPs and DPPX proteins have been demonstrated to be integral components of ISA and ITO currents, as their coexpression with Kv4 subunits recapitulates the kinetics of native currents. Here, we explore the presence and functional contribution of DPPX to KO2 currents in rabbit CB chemoreceptor cells by using DPPX functional knockdown with siRNA. Additionally, we investigate if the presence of DPPX endows Kv4 channels with new pharmacological properties, as we have observed anomalous tetraethylammonium (TEA) sensitivity in the native KO2 currents. DPPX association with Kv4 channels induced an increased TEA sensitivity both in heterologous expression systems and in CB chemoreceptor cells. Moreover, TEA application to Kv4-DPPX heteromultimers leads to marked kinetic effects that could be explained by an augmented closed-state inactivation. Our data suggest that DPPX proteins are integral components of KO2 currents, and that their association with Kv4 subunits modulate the pharmacological profile of the heteromultimers. PMID:18411327

The tetramerization domain potentiates Kv4 channel function by suppressing closed-state inactivation.

PubMed

Tang, Yi-Quan; Zhou, Jing-Heng; Yang, Fan; Zheng, Jie; Wang, KeWei

2014-09-02

A-type Kv4 potassium channels undergo a conformational change toward a nonconductive state at negative membrane potentials, a dynamic process known as pre-open closed states or closed-state inactivation (CSI). CSI causes inhibition of channel activity without the prerequisite of channel opening, thus providing a dynamic regulation of neuronal excitability, dendritic signal integration, and synaptic plasticity at resting. However, the structural determinants underlying Kv4 CSI remain largely unknown. We recently showed that the auxiliary KChIP4a subunit contains an N-terminal Kv4 inhibitory domain (KID) that directly interacts with Kv4.3 channels to enhance CSI. In this study, we utilized the KChIP4a KID to probe key structural elements underlying Kv4 CSI. Using fluorescence resonance energy transfer two-hybrid mapping and bimolecular fluorescence complementation-based screening combined with electrophysiology, we identified the intracellular tetramerization (T1) domain that functions to suppress CSI and serves as a receptor for the binding of KID. Disrupting the Kv4.3 T1-T1 interaction interface by mutating C110A within the C3H1 motif of T1 domain facilitated CSI and ablated the KID-mediated enhancement of CSI. Furthermore, replacing the Kv4.3 T1 domain with the T1 domain from Kv1.4 (without the C3H1 motif) or Kv2.1 (with the C3H1 motif) resulted in channels functioning with enhanced or suppressed CSI, respectively. Taken together, our findings reveal a novel (to our knowledge) role of the T1 domain in suppressing Kv4 CSI, and that KChIP4a KID directly interacts with the T1 domain to facilitate Kv4.3 CSI, thus leading to inhibition of channel function. Copyright © 2014 Biophysical Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Pre-weld heat treatment improves welds in Rene 41

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Prager, M.

1968-01-01

Cooling of Rene 41 prior to welding reduces the incidence of cracking during post-weld heat treatment. The microstructure formed during the slow cooling rate favors elevated temperature ductility. Some vestiges of this microstructure are apparently retained during welding and thus enhance strain-age crack resistance in air.

High-Speed Friction-Stir Welding to Enable Aluminum Tailor-Welded Blanks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hovanski, Yuri; Upadhyay, Piyush; Carsley, John; Luzanski, Tom; Carlson, Blair; Eisenmenger, Mark; Soulami, Ayoub; Marshall, Dustin; Landino, Brandon; Hartfield-Wunsch, Susan

2015-05-01

Current welding technologies for production of aluminum tailor-welded blanks (TWBs) are utilized in low-volume and niche applications, and they have yet to be scaled for the high-volume vehicle market. This study targeted further weight reduction, part reduction, and cost savings by enabling tailor-welded blank technology for aluminum alloys at high volumes. While friction-stir welding (FSW) has been traditionally applied at linear velocities less than 1 m/min, high-volume production applications demand the process be extended to higher velocities more amenable to cost-sensitive production environments. Unfortunately, weld parameters and performance developed and characterized at low-to-moderate welding velocities do not directly translate to high-speed linear FSW. Therefore, to facilitate production of high-volume aluminum FSW components, parameters were developed with a minimum welding velocity of 3 m/min. With an emphasis on weld quality, welded blanks were evaluated for postweld formability using a combination of numerical and experimental methods. An evaluation across scales was ultimately validated by stamping full-size production door inner panels made from dissimilar thickness aluminum TWBs, which provided validation of the numerical and experimental analysis of laboratory-scale tests.

Numerical and experimental determination of weld pool shape during high-power diode laser welding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Klimpel, Andrzej; Lisiecki, Aleksander; Szymanski, Andrzej; Hoult, Anthony P.

2003-10-01

In this paper, results of investigations on the shape of weld pool during High Power Diode Laser (HPDL) welding are presented. The results of tests showed that the shape of weld pool and mechanism of laser welding with a rectangular pattern of 808 nm laser radiation differs distinctly from previous laser welding mechanisms. For all power densities the conduction mode welds were observed and weld pool geometry depends significantly on the welding parameters.

Structure of welded joints obtained by contact weld in nanostructured titanium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Klimenov, V. A.; Klopotov, A. A.; Gnysov, S. F.; Vlasov, V. A.; Lychagin, D. V.; Chumaevskii, A. V.

2015-10-01

The paper presents the research of the weld structure of two Ti specimens of the type VT6 that have nano- and submicrocrystalline structures. Electrical contact welding is used to obtain welds. The acicular structure is formed in the weld area. Two types of defects are detected, namely micropores and microcracks.

A compact 300 kV solid-state high-voltage nanosecond generator for dielectric wall accelerator

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Shen, Yi; Wang, Wei; Liu, Yi

2015-05-15

Compact solid-state system is the main development trend in pulsed power technologies. A compact solid-state high-voltage nanosecond pulse generator with output voltage of 300 kV amplitude, 10 ns duration (FWHM), and 3 ns rise-time was designed for a dielectric wall accelerator. The generator is stacked by 15 planar-plate Blumlein pulse forming lines (PFL). Each Blumlein PFL consists of two solid-state planar transmission lines, a GaAs photoconductive semiconductor switch, and a laser diode trigger. The key components of the generator and the experimental results are reported in this paper.

Welded joints integrity analysis and optimization for fiber laser welding of dissimilar materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ai, Yuewei; Shao, Xinyu; Jiang, Ping; Li, Peigen; Liu, Yang; Liu, Wei

2016-11-01

Dissimilar materials welded joints provide many advantages in power, automotive, chemical, and spacecraft industries. The weld bead integrity which is determined by process parameters plays a significant role in the welding quality during the fiber laser welding (FLW) of dissimilar materials. In this paper, an optimization method by taking the integrity of the weld bead and weld area into consideration is proposed for FLW of dissimilar materials, the low carbon steel and stainless steel. The relationships between the weld bead integrity and process parameters are developed by the genetic algorithm optimized back propagation neural network (GA-BPNN). The particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is taken for optimizing the predicted outputs from GA-BPNN for the objective. Through the optimization process, the desired weld bead with good integrity and minimum weld area are obtained and the corresponding microstructure and microhardness are excellent. The mechanical properties of the optimized joints are greatly improved compared with that of the un-optimized welded joints. Moreover, the effects of significant factors are analyzed based on the statistical approach and the laser power (LP) is identified as the most significant factor on the weld bead integrity and weld area. The results indicate that the proposed method is effective for improving the reliability and stability of welded joints in the practical production.

Microchemical Analysis of Non-Metallic Inclusions in C-Mn Steel Shielded Metal Arc Welds by Analytical Transmission Electron Microscopy.

DTIC Science & Technology

1998-06-01

transformation ( CCT ) diagram Figure 2.2. The microstructures that develop are determined by the cooling rate, alloying element and oxygen content of the weld...TIME Figure 2.2 CCT Diagram for the weld metal of low-carbon, low-alloy steels [From Ref. 2] To assist material scientists in microstructure

Weld-Bead Shaver

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Guirguis, Kamal; Price, Daniel S.

1990-01-01

Hand-held power tool shaves excess metal from inside circumference of welded duct. Removes excess metal deposited by penetration of tungsten/inert-gas weld or by spatter from electron-beam weld. Produces smooth transition across joint. Easier to use and not prone to overshaving. Also cuts faster, removing 35 in. (89 cm) of weld bead per hour.

Increasing the reliability of the shutdown of 500 - 750-kV overhead lines equipped with shunt reactors in an unsuccessful three-phase automatic repeated closure cycle

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kuz'micheva, K. I.; Merzlyakov, A. S.; Fokin, G. G.

2013-05-15

The reasons for circuit-breaker failures during repeated disconnection of 500 - 750 kV overhead lines with shunt reactors in a cycle of unsuccessful three-phase automatic reconnection (TARC) are analyzed. Recommendations are made for increasing the operating reliability of power transmission lines with shunt reactors when there is unsuccessful reconnection.

Windsor and Perry: reactions of siblings in same-sex and heterosexual couples.

PubMed

Clark, Jennifer B; Riggle, Ellen D B; Rostosky, Sharon S; Rothblum, Esther D; Balsam, Kimberly F

2015-01-01

The U.S. Supreme Court decisions in U.S. v. Windsor (570 U.S. 307) and Hollingsworth v. Perry (570 U.S. 399) created a focal point for public discussion of marriage equality for same-sex couples. This article reports the results of an exploratory study of the reactions of individuals currently or previously in same-sex couple relationships and a heterosexual sibling who is currently or previously married (N = 371) to the Supreme Court decisions. Thematic content analysis was used to explore participants' responses to an open-ended question on a survey. Reactions of individuals from same-sex couples revealed the following themes: (1) longitudinal perspectives on the advancement of rights for same-sex couples; (2) emotional responses celebrating the decisions or expressing relief; (3) affirmation of their relationship or rights; (4) practical consequences of the extension of rights; and (5) minority stress related to anticipation of future prejudice or discrimination. Themes in the heterosexual siblings' responses were (1) ally support; (2) flat support without emotion or elaboration; (3) indifference to or ignorance about the decisions; and (4) disapproval of the decisions. These themes are compared and discussed in light of prior research on reactions to marriage restriction debates and marriage (in)equality and family relationships.

Arc Welding of Mg Alloys: Oxide Films, Irregular Weld Shape and Liquation Cracking

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chai, Xiao

The use of Mg alloys for vehicle weight reduction has been increasing rapidly worldwide. Gas-metal arc welding (GMAW) has the potential for mass-production welding of Mg alloys. Recently, the University of Wisconsin demonstrated in bead-on-plate GMAW of Mg alloys that severe spatter can be eliminated by using controlled short circuiting (CSC), and severe hydrogen porosity can be eliminated by removing Mg(OH)2. The present study aimed at actual butt and lap welding of Mg alloys by CSC-GMAW and susceptibility of Mg alloys to weld-edge cracking using the circular-patch welding test. Sound welds were made without spatter and hydrogen porosity butt and lap welding of AZ 31 Mg using CSC-GMAW , with butt welds approaching 100% of the base-metal strength. However, three new significant issues were found to occur easily and degrade the weld quality significantly: 1. formation of oxide films inside butt welds, 2. formation of high crowns on butt welds, and 3. formation of fingers from lap welds. The mechanisms of their formation were established, and the methods for their elimination or reduction were demonstrated. Circular-patch welds were made on most widely used Mg casting alloy AZ91, the most widely used Mg wrought alloy AZ31 with three different Mg filler wires AZ31, AZ61 and AZ92. The susceptibility to cracking along the weld edge was predicted and compared against the experimental results. Such a prediction has not been made for welds of Mg alloys before.

Molecular basis for the toxin insensitivity of scorpion voltage-gated potassium channel MmKv1.

PubMed

Zhang, Chuangeng; Xie, Zili; Li, Xinxin; Chen, Jing; Feng, Jing; Lang, Yange; Yang, Weishan; Li, Wenxin; Chen, Zongyun; Yao, Jing; Cao, Zhijian; Wu, Yingliang

2016-05-01

Scorpions are insensitive to their own venoms, which contain various neurotoxins specific for mammalian or insect ion channels, whose molecular mechanism remains unsolved. Using MmKv1, a potassium channel identified from the genome of the scorpion Mesobuthus martensii, channel kinetic experiments showed that MmKv1 was a classical voltage-gated potassium channel with a voltage-dependent fast activation and slow inactivation. Compared with the human Kv1.3 channel (hKv1.3), the MmKv1 channel exhibited a remarkable insensitivity to both scorpion venom and toxin. The chimaeric channels of MmKv1 and hKv1.3 revealed that both turret and filter regions of the MmKv1 channel were critical for the toxin insensitivity of MmKv1. Furthermore, mutagenesis of the chimaeric channel indicated that two basic residues (Arg(399) and Lys(403)) in the MmKv1 turret region and Arg(425) in the MmKv1 filter region significantly affected its toxin insensitivity. Moreover, when these three basic residues of MmKv1 were simultaneously substituted with the corresponding residues from hKv1.3, the MmKv1-R399T/K403S/R425H mutant channels exhibited similar sensitivity to both scorpion venom and toxin to hKv1.3, which revealed the determining role of these three basic residues in the toxin insensitivity of the MmKv1 channel. More strikingly, a similar triad sequence structure is present in all Shaker-like channels from venomous invertebrates, which suggested a possible convergent functional evolution of these channels to enable them to resist their own venoms. Together, these findings first illustrate the mechanism by which scorpions are insensitive to their own venoms at the ion channel receptor level and enrich our knowledge of the insensitivity of scorpions and other venomous animals to their own venoms. © 2016 The Author(s). published by Portland Press Limited on behalf of the Biochemical Society.

Expression and function of K(V)2-containing channels in human urinary bladder smooth muscle.

PubMed

Hristov, Kiril L; Chen, Muyan; Afeli, Serge A Y; Cheng, Qiuping; Rovner, Eric S; Petkov, Georgi V

2012-06-01

The functional role of the voltage-gated K(+) (K(V)) channels in human detrusor smooth muscle (DSM) is largely unexplored. Here, we provide molecular, electrophysiological, and functional evidence for the expression of K(V)2.1, K(V)2.2, and the electrically silent K(V)9.3 subunits in human DSM. Stromatoxin-1 (ScTx1), a selective inhibitor of K(V)2.1, K(V)2.2, and K(V)4.2 homotetrameric channels and of K(V)2.1/9.3 heterotetrameric channels, was used to examine the role of these channels in human DSM function. Human DSM tissues were obtained during open bladder surgeries from patients without a history of overactive bladder. Freshly isolated human DSM cells were studied using RT-PCR, immunocytochemistry, live-cell Ca(2+) imaging, and the perforated whole cell patch-clamp technique. Isometric DSM tension recordings of human DSM isolated strips were conducted using tissue baths. RT-PCR experiments showed mRNA expression of K(V)2.1, K(V)2.2, and K(V)9.3 (but not K(V)4.2) channel subunits in human isolated DSM cells. K(V)2.1 and K(V)2.2 protein expression was confirmed by Western blot analysis and immunocytochemistry. Perforated whole cell patch-clamp experiments revealed that ScTx1 (100 nM) inhibited the amplitude of the voltage step-induced K(V) current in freshly isolated human DSM cells. ScTx1 (100 nM) significantly increased the intracellular Ca(2+) level in DSM cells. In human DSM isolated strips, ScTx1 (100 nM) increased the spontaneous phasic contraction amplitude and muscle force, and enhanced the amplitude of the electrical field stimulation-induced contractions within the range of 3.5-30 Hz stimulation frequencies. These findings reveal that ScTx1-sensitive K(V)2-containing channels are key regulators of human DSM excitability and contractility and may represent new targets for pharmacological or genetic intervention for bladder dysfunction.

Oxy-Fuel Cutting/Welding. Welding Module 3. Instructor's Guide.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Missouri Univ., Columbia. Instructional Materials Lab.

This guide is intended to assist vocational educators in teaching a four-unit module in oxy-fuel cutting and welding. The module is part of a welding curriculum that has been designed to be totally integrated with Missouri's Vocational Instruction Management System. The following topics are covered in the module: oxyacetylene welding, oxyacetylene…