Sample records for close dimensional tolerances

  1. Close range fault tolerant noncontacting position sensor

    DOEpatents

    Bingham, D.N.; Anderson, A.A.

    1996-02-20

    A method and system are disclosed for locating the three dimensional coordinates of a moving or stationary object in real time. The three dimensional coordinates of an object in half space or full space are determined based upon the time of arrival or phase of the wave front measured by a plurality of receiver elements and an established vector magnitudes proportional to the measured time of arrival or phase at each receiver element. The coordinates of the object are calculated by solving a matrix equation or a set of closed form algebraic equations. 3 figs.

  2. Metal parts hydrosized by explosive force

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1965-01-01

    Large metal parts are sized by a charge exploded above a sealed container filled with evacuated die and water. Explosive hydrosizing achieves close dimensional tolerances, eliminates damage to the surface, and allows longer force application and more even pressure distribution.

  3. Direct laser additive fabrication system with image feedback control

    DOEpatents

    Griffith, Michelle L.; Hofmeister, William H.; Knorovsky, Gerald A.; MacCallum, Danny O.; Schlienger, M. Eric; Smugeresky, John E.

    2002-01-01

    A closed-loop, feedback-controlled direct laser fabrication system is disclosed. The feedback refers to the actual growth conditions obtained by real-time analysis of thermal radiation images. The resulting system can fabricate components with severalfold improvement in dimensional tolerances and surface finish.

  4. Fabricating Structural Stiffeners By Superplastic Forming

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Bales, Thomas T.; Shinn, Joseph M., Jr.; Hales, Stephen J.; James, William F.

    1994-01-01

    Superplastic forming (SPF) of aluminum alloys effective technique for making strong, lightweight structural components conforming to close dimensional tolerances. Technique applied in experimental fabrication of prototypes of stiffening ribs for cylindrical tanks. When making structural panel, stiffening ribs spot-welded to metal skin. Use of discrete eliminates machining waste, and use of SPF. Cost of fabrication reduced.

  5. Augmented design and analysis of computer experiments: a novel tolerance embedded global optimization approach applied to SWIR hyperspectral illumination design.

    PubMed

    Keresztes, Janos C; John Koshel, R; D'huys, Karlien; De Ketelaere, Bart; Audenaert, Jan; Goos, Peter; Saeys, Wouter

    2016-12-26

    A novel meta-heuristic approach for minimizing nonlinear constrained problems is proposed, which offers tolerance information during the search for the global optimum. The method is based on the concept of design and analysis of computer experiments combined with a novel two phase design augmentation (DACEDA), which models the entire merit space using a Gaussian process, with iteratively increased resolution around the optimum. The algorithm is introduced through a series of cases studies with increasing complexity for optimizing uniformity of a short-wave infrared (SWIR) hyperspectral imaging (HSI) illumination system (IS). The method is first demonstrated for a two-dimensional problem consisting of the positioning of analytical isotropic point sources. The method is further applied to two-dimensional (2D) and five-dimensional (5D) SWIR HSI IS versions using close- and far-field measured source models applied within the non-sequential ray-tracing software FRED, including inherent stochastic noise. The proposed method is compared to other heuristic approaches such as simplex and simulated annealing (SA). It is shown that DACEDA converges towards a minimum with 1 % improvement compared to simplex and SA, and more importantly requiring only half the number of simulations. Finally, a concurrent tolerance analysis is done within DACEDA for to the five-dimensional case such that further simulations are not required.

  6. Design, fabrication and spin testing of ceramic blade metal disk attachment

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Calvert, G.

    1979-01-01

    A ceramic turbine blade-metal disk attachment was designed for small, non man-rated turbine engine applications. The selected design consisted of a hot pressed silicon nitride blade having a skewed dovetail attachment with a compliant interlayer between the disk and the blade. Two-dimensional and three-dimensional analyses predicted that life goals could be achieved, considering both NDE limitations and crack growth rates for the ceramic material. Twenty ceramic blades were fabricated to closely-held manufacturing tolerances. New fracture mechanics data at elevated temperature are presented.

  7. SLIP CASTING METHOD

    DOEpatents

    Allison, A.G.

    1959-09-01

    S>A process is described for preparing a magnesium oxide slip casting slurry which when used in conjunction with standard casting techniques results in a very strong "green" slip casting and a fired piece of very close dimensional tolerance. The process involves aging an aqueous magnestum oxide slurry, having a basic pH value, until it attains a specified critical viscosity at which time a deflocculating agent is added without upsetting the basic pH value.

  8. Difference in oxidative stress tolerance between rice cultivars estimated with chlorophyll fluorescence analysis.

    PubMed

    Kasajima, Ichiro

    2017-04-26

    Oxidative stress is considered to be involved in growth retardation of plants when they are exposed to a variety of biotic and abiotic stresses. Despite its potential importance in improving crop production, comparative studies on oxidative stress tolerance between rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivars are limited. This work describes the difference in term of oxidative stress tolerance between 72 rice cultivars. 72 rice cultivars grown under naturally lit greenhouse were used in this study. Excised leaf discs were subjected to a low concentration of methyl viologen (paraquat), a chemical reagent known to generate reactive oxygen species in chloroplast. Chlorophyll fluorescence analysis using a two-dimensional fluorescence meter, ion leakage analysis as well as the measurement of chlorophyll contents were used to evaluate the oxidative stress tolerance of leaf discs. Furthermore, fluorescence intensities were finely analyzed based on new fluorescence theories that we have optimized. Treatment of leaf discs with methyl viologen caused differential decrease of maximum quantum yield of photosystem II (Fv/Fm) between cultivars. Decrease of Fv/Fm was also closely correlated with increase of ion leakage and decrease of chlorophyll a/b ratio. Fv/Fm was factorized into photochemical and non-photochemical parameters to classify rice cultivars into sensitive and tolerant ones. Among the 72 compared rice cultivars, the traditional cultivar Co13 was identified as the most tolerant to oxidative stress. Koshihikari, a dominant modern Japonica cultivar in Japan as well as IR58, one of the modern Indica breeding lines exhibited a strong tolerance to oxidative stress. Close correlation between Fv/Fm and chlorophyll a/b ratio provides a simple method to estimate oxidative stress tolerance, without measurement of chlorophyll fluorescence with special equipment. The fact that modern cultivars, especially major cultivars possessed tolerance to oxidative stress suggests that oxidative stress tolerance is one of the agricultural traits prerequisite for improvement of modern rice cultivars. Data presented in this study would enable breeding of rice cultivars having strong tolerance to oxidative stress.

  9. Essential uncontrollability of discrete linear, time-invariant, dynamical systems

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Cliff, E. M.

    1975-01-01

    The concept of a 'best approximating m-dimensional subspace' for a given set of vectors in n-dimensional whole space is introduced. Such a subspace is easily described in terms of the eigenvectors of an associated Gram matrix. This technique is used to approximate an achievable set for a discrete linear time-invariant dynamical system. This approximation characterizes the part of the state space that may be reached using modest levels of control. If the achievable set can be closely approximated by a proper subspace of the whole space then the system is 'essentially uncontrollable'. The notion finds application in studies of failure-tolerant systems, and in decoupling.

  10. One Dimensional Graphitic Carbon Nitrides as Effective Metal-Free Oxygen Reduction Catalysts

    PubMed Central

    Tahir, Muhammad; Mahmood, Nasir; Zhu, Jinghan; Mahmood, Asif; Butt, Faheem K.; Rizwan, Syed; Aslam, Imran; Tanveer, M.; Idrees, Faryal; Shakir, Imran; Cao, Chuanbao; Hou, Yanglong

    2015-01-01

    To explore the effect of morphology on catalytic properties of graphitic carbon nitride (GCN), we have studied oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) performance of two different morphologies of GCN in alkaline media. Among both, tubular GCN react with dissolved oxygen in the ORR with an onset potential close to commercial Pt/C. Furthermore, the higher stability and excellent methanol tolerance of tubular GCN compared to Pt/C emphasizes its suitability for fuel cells. PMID:26201998

  11. Stability, performance and sensitivity analysis of I.I.D. jump linear systems

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chávez Fuentes, Jorge R.; González, Oscar R.; Gray, W. Steven

    2018-06-01

    This paper presents a symmetric Kronecker product analysis of independent and identically distributed jump linear systems to develop new, lower dimensional equations for the stability and performance analysis of this type of systems than what is currently available. In addition, new closed form expressions characterising multi-parameter relative sensitivity functions for performance metrics are introduced. The analysis technique is illustrated with a distributed fault-tolerant flight control example where the communication links are allowed to fail randomly.

  12. Distortion control in 20MnCr5 bevel gears after liquid nitriding process to maintain precision dimensions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mahendiran, M.; Kavitha, M.

    2018-02-01

    Robotic and automotive gears are generally very high precision components with limitations in tolerances. Bevel gears are more widely used and dimensionally very close tolerance components that need stability without any backlash or distortion for smooth and trouble free functions. Nitriding is carried out to enhance wear resistance of the surface. The aim of this paper is to reduce the distortion in liquid nitriding process, though plasma nitriding is preferred for high precision components. Various trials were conducted to optimize the process parameters, considering pre dimensional setting for nominal nitriding layer growth. Surface cleaning, suitable fixtures and stress relieving operations were also done to optimize the process. Micro structural analysis and Vickers hardness testing were carried out for analyzing the phase changes, variation in surface hardness and case depth. CNC gear testing machine was used for determining the distortion level. The presence of white layer was found for about 10-15μm in the case depth of 250± 3.5μm showing an average surface hardness of 670 HV. Hence the economical liquid nitriding process was successfully used for producing high hardness and wear resistant coating over 20MnCr5 material with less distortion and reduced secondary grinding process for dimensional control.

  13. Interrelated Dimensional Chains in Predicting Accuracy of Turbine Wheel Assembly Parameters

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yanyukina, M. V.; Bolotov, M. A.; Ruzanov, N. V.

    2018-03-01

    The working capacity of any device primarily depends on the assembly accuracy which, in its turn, is determined by the quality of each part manufactured, i.e., the degree of conformity between final geometrical parameters and the set ones. However, the assembly accuracy depends not only on a qualitative manufacturing process but also on the assembly process correctness. In this connection, there were preliminary calculations of assembly stages in terms of conformity to real geometrical parameters with their permissible values. This task is performed by means of the calculation of dimensional chains. The calculation of interrelated dimensional chains in the aircraft industry requires particular attention. The article considers the issues of dimensional chain calculation modelling by the example of the turbine wheel assembly process. The authors described the solution algorithm in terms of mathematical statistics implemented in Matlab. The paper demonstrated the results of a dimensional chain calculation for a turbine wheel in relation to the draw of turbine blades to the shroud ring diameter. Besides, the article provides the information on the influence of a geometrical parameter tolerance for the dimensional chain link elements on a closing one.

  14. Composite transport wing technology development

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Madan, Ram C.

    1988-01-01

    The design, fabrication, testing, and analysis of stiffened wing cover panels to assess damage tolerance criteria are discussed. The damage tolerance improvements were demonstrated in a test program using full-sized cover panel subcomponents. The panels utilized a hard skin concept with identical laminates of 44-percent 0-degree, 44-percent plus or minus 45-degree, and 12-percent 90-degree plies in the skins and stiffeners. The panel skins were impacted at midbay between the stiffeners, directly over the stiffener, and over the stiffener flange edge. The stiffener blades were impacted laterally. Impact energy levels of 100 ft-lb and 200 ft-lb were used. NASTRAN finite-element analyses were performed to simulate the nonvisible damage that was detected in the panels by nondestructive inspection. A closed-form solution for generalized loading was developed to evaluate the peel stresses in the bonded structure. Two-dimensional delamination growth analysis was developed using the principle of minimum potential energy in terms of closed-form solution for critical strain. An analysis was conducted to determine the residual compressive stress in the panels after impact damage, and the analytical predictions were verified by compression testing of the damaged panels.

  15. The linear sizes tolerances and fits system modernization

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Glukhov, V. I.; Grinevich, V. A.; Shalay, V. V.

    2018-04-01

    The study is carried out on the urgent topic for technical products quality providing in the tolerancing process of the component parts. The aim of the paper is to develop alternatives for improving the system linear sizes tolerances and dimensional fits in the international standard ISO 286-1. The tasks of the work are, firstly, to classify as linear sizes the elements additionally linear coordinating sizes that determine the detail elements location and, secondly, to justify the basic deviation of the tolerance interval for the element's linear size. The geometrical modeling method of real details elements, the analytical and experimental methods are used in the research. It is shown that the linear coordinates are the dimensional basis of the elements linear sizes. To standardize the accuracy of linear coordinating sizes in all accuracy classes, it is sufficient to select in the standardized tolerance system only one tolerance interval with symmetrical deviations: Js for internal dimensional elements (holes) and js for external elements (shafts). The main deviation of this coordinating tolerance is the average zero deviation, which coincides with the nominal value of the coordinating size. Other intervals of the tolerance system are remained for normalizing the accuracy of the elements linear sizes with a fundamental change in the basic deviation of all tolerance intervals is the maximum deviation corresponding to the limit of the element material: EI is the lower tolerance for the of the internal elements (holes) sizes and es is the upper tolerance deviation for the outer elements (shafts) sizes. It is the sizes of the material maximum that are involved in the of the dimensional elements mating of the shafts and holes and determine the fits type.

  16. Electro-Optical Inspection For Tolerance Control As An Integral Part Of A Flexible Machining Cell

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Renaud, Blaise

    1986-11-01

    Institut CERAC has been involved in optical metrology and 3-dimensional surface control for the last couple of years. Among the industrial applications considered is the on-line shape evaluation of machined parts within the manufacturing cell. The specific objective is to measure the machining errors and to compare them with the tolerances set by designers. An electro-optical sensing technique has been developed which relies on a projection Moire contouring optical method. A prototype inspection system has been designed, making use of video detection and computer image processing. Moire interferograms are interpreted, and the metrological information automatically retrieved. A structured database can be generated for subsequent data analysis and for real-time closed-loop corrective actions. A real-time kernel embedded into a synchronisation network (Petri-net) for the control of concurrent processes in the Electra-Optical Inspection (E0I) station was realised and implemented in a MODULA-2 program DIN01. The prototype system for on-line automatic tolerance control taking place within a flexible machining cell is described in this paper, together with the fast-prototype synchronisation program.

  17. Mold bolt and means for achieving close tolerances between bolts and bolt holes

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Johnston, David L. (Inventor); Bryant, Phillip G. (Inventor)

    1993-01-01

    In the space shuttle, a cargo bay storage rack was required which was to be manufactured from a metal-plastic composite and bolted to a cargo structure. Following completion, utilization of the rack was disallowed due to tolerances, that is, the size differences between the outside bolt diameter and the inside hole diameter. In addition to the space shuttle problem there are other close tolerance requirements for bolts. Such environments often benefit from close tolerance bolting. Frequently such fabrication is not cost effective. Consequently there is a need for means of achieving close tolerances between bolts and bolt holes. Such means are provided. After compressing the elements together a strong rigid plastic, ceramic, or ceramic plastic fluid is forced into a channel extending through the bolt.

  18. Effect of size and dimensional tolerance of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty on wear: An in-silico study.

    PubMed

    Mattei, Lorenza; Di Puccio, Francesca; Joyce, Thomas J; Ciulli, Enrico

    2016-08-01

    Although huge research efforts have been devoted to wear analysis of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) in hip and knee implants, shoulder prostheses have been studied only marginally. Recently, the authors presented a numerical wear model of reverse total shoulder arthroplasties (RTSAs), and its application for estimating the wear coefficient k from experimental data according to different wear laws. In this study, such model and k expressions are exploited to investigate the sensitivity of UHMWPE wear to implant size and dimensional tolerance. A set of 10 different geometries was analysed, considering nominal diameters in the range 36-42mm, available on the market, and a cup dimensional tolerance of +0.2, -0.0mm (resulting in a diametrical clearance ranging between 0.04-0.24mm), estimated from measurements on RTSAs. Since the most reliable wear law and wear coefficient k for UHMWPE are still controversial in the literature, both the Archard law (AR) and the wear law of UHMWPE (PE), as well as four different k expressions were considered, carrying out a total of 40 simulations. Results showed that the wear volume increases with the implant size and decreases with the dimensional tolerance for both the wear laws. Interestingly, different trends were obtained for the maximum wear depth vs. clearance: the best performing implants should have a high conformity according to the AR law but low conformity for the PE law. However, according to both laws, wear is highly affected by both implant size and dimensional tolerance, although it is much more sensitive to the latter, with up to a twofold variation of wear predicted. Indeed, dimensional tolerance directly alters the clearance, and therefore the lubrication and contact pressure distribution in the implant. Rather surprisingly the role of dimensional tolerance has been completely disregarded in the literature, as well as in the standards. Furthermore, this study notes some important issues for future work, such as the validation of wear laws and predictive wear models and the sensitivity of k to implant geometry. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  19. Three-dimensional passive sensing photon counting for object classification

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yeom, Seokwon; Javidi, Bahram; Watson, Edward

    2007-04-01

    In this keynote address, we address three-dimensional (3D) distortion-tolerant object recognition using photon-counting integral imaging (II). A photon-counting linear discriminant analysis (LDA) is discussed for classification of photon-limited images. We develop a compact distortion-tolerant recognition system based on the multiple-perspective imaging of II. Experimental and simulation results have shown that a low level of photons is sufficient to classify out-of-plane rotated objects.

  20. Automatic Aircraft Collision Avoidance System and Method

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Skoog, Mark (Inventor); Hook, Loyd (Inventor); McWherter, Shaun (Inventor); Willhite, Jaimie (Inventor)

    2014-01-01

    The invention is a system and method of compressing a DTM to be used in an Auto-GCAS system using a semi-regular geometric compression algorithm. In general, the invention operates by first selecting the boundaries of the three dimensional map to be compressed and dividing the three dimensional map data into regular areas. Next, a type of free-edged, flat geometric surface is selected which will be used to approximate terrain data of the three dimensional map data. The flat geometric surface is used to approximate terrain data for each regular area. The approximations are checked to determine if they fall within selected tolerances. If the approximation for a specific regular area is within specified tolerance, the data is saved for that specific regular area. If the approximation for a specific area falls outside the specified tolerances, the regular area is divided and a flat geometric surface approximation is made for each of the divided areas. This process is recursively repeated until all of the regular areas are approximated by flat geometric surfaces. Finally, the compressed three dimensional map data is provided to the automatic ground collision system for an aircraft.

  1. 7 CFR 51.347 - Application of tolerances.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... (INSPECTION, CERTIFICATION, AND STANDARDS) United States Standards for Grades of Apples for Processing Application of Tolerances § 51.347 Application of tolerances. Apples in closed packages are subject to the...

  2. 7 CFR 51.347 - Application of tolerances.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ... (INSPECTION, CERTIFICATION, AND STANDARDS) United States Standards for Grades of Apples for Processing Application of Tolerances § 51.347 Application of tolerances. Apples in closed packages are subject to the...

  3. 36 CFR 1192.4 - Miscellaneous instructions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... General § 1192.4 Miscellaneous instructions. (a) Dimensional conventions. Dimensions that are not noted as minimum or maximum are absolute. (b) Dimensional tolerances. All dimensions are subject to conventional...

  4. 36 CFR 1192.4 - Miscellaneous instructions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... General § 1192.4 Miscellaneous instructions. (a) Dimensional conventions. Dimensions that are not noted as minimum or maximum are absolute. (b) Dimensional tolerances. All dimensions are subject to conventional...

  5. 36 CFR 1192.4 - Miscellaneous instructions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... General § 1192.4 Miscellaneous instructions. (a) Dimensional conventions. Dimensions that are not noted as minimum or maximum are absolute. (b) Dimensional tolerances. All dimensions are subject to conventional...

  6. 7 CFR 51.347 - Application of tolerances.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... STANDARDS) United States Standards for Grades of Apples for Processing Application of Tolerances § 51.347 Application of tolerances. Apples in closed packages are subject to the following limitations provided the...

  7. 7 CFR 51.347 - Application of tolerances.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... STANDARDS) United States Standards for Grades of Apples for Processing Application of Tolerances § 51.347 Application of tolerances. Apples in closed packages are subject to the following limitations provided the...

  8. 7 CFR 51.347 - Application of tolerances.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... STANDARDS) United States Standards for Grades of Apples for Processing Application of Tolerances § 51.347 Application of tolerances. Apples in closed packages are subject to the following limitations provided the...

  9. 36 CFR § 1192.4 - Miscellaneous instructions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... General § 1192.4 Miscellaneous instructions. (a) Dimensional conventions. Dimensions that are not noted as minimum or maximum are absolute. (b) Dimensional tolerances. All dimensions are subject to conventional...

  10. Enhancing radiation tolerance by controlling defect mobility and migration pathways in multicomponent single-phase alloys

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lu, Chenyang; Niu, Liangliang; Chen, Nanjun; Jin, Ke; Yang, Taini; Xiu, Pengyuan; Zhang, Yanwen; Gao, Fei; Bei, Hongbin; Shi, Shi; He, Mo-Rigen; Robertson, Ian M.; Weber, William J.; Wang, Lumin

    2016-12-01

    A grand challenge in material science is to understand the correlation between intrinsic properties and defect dynamics. Radiation tolerant materials are in great demand for safe operation and advancement of nuclear and aerospace systems. Unlike traditional approaches that rely on microstructural and nanoscale features to mitigate radiation damage, this study demonstrates enhancement of radiation tolerance with the suppression of void formation by two orders magnitude at elevated temperatures in equiatomic single-phase concentrated solid solution alloys, and more importantly, reveals its controlling mechanism through a detailed analysis of the depth distribution of defect clusters and an atomistic computer simulation. The enhanced swelling resistance is attributed to the tailored interstitial defect cluster motion in the alloys from a long-range one-dimensional mode to a short-range three-dimensional mode, which leads to enhanced point defect recombination. The results suggest design criteria for next generation radiation tolerant structural alloys.

  11. (In)Tolerable Zero Tolerance Policy

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Dickerson, Sean L.

    2014-01-01

    The spread of zero tolerance policies for school-based scenarios flourished under President William J. Clinton who wanted to close a loophole in the Guns-Free School Zones Act of 1990. Expansion in the coverage of zero tolerance policy to offenses outside the initial scope of weapon and drug offenses has led to a disproportional ratio of African…

  12. Teachers' Perceptions of Tolerance in Teacher-Administrator Relationships in Turkey

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Karaman-Kepenekci, Yasemin; Aypay, Ahmet

    2009-01-01

    The concept of tolerance is closely related to education. There has been a growing body of literature on the issue of tolerance in schools, since it directly influences the school climate. This study has investigated teacher perceptions of tolerance in teacher-administrator relationships in state schools in Turkey. A sample of 308 teachers was…

  13. Finite element generation of arbitrary 3-D fracture networks for flow analysis in complicated discrete fracture networks

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Qi-Hua

    2015-10-01

    Finite element generation of complicated fracture networks is the core issue and source of technical difficulty in three-dimensional (3-D) discrete fracture network (DFN) flow models. Due to the randomness and uncertainty in the configuration of a DFN, the intersection lines (traces) are arbitrarily distributed in each face (fracture and other surfaces). Hence, subdivision of the fractures is an issue relating to subdivision of two-dimensional (2-D) domains with arbitrarily-distributed constraints. When the DFN configuration is very complicated, the well-known approaches (e.g. Voronoi Delaunay-based methods and advancing-front techniques) cannot operate properly. This paper proposes an algorithm to implement end-to-end connection between traces to subdivide 2-D domains into closed loops. The compositions of the vertices in the common edges between adjacent loops (which may belong to a single fracture or two connected fractures) are thus ensured to be topologically identical. The paper then proposes an approach for triangulating arbitrary loops which does not add any nodes to ensure consistency of the meshes at the common edges. In addition, several techniques relating to tolerance control and improving code robustness are discussed. Finally, the equivalent permeability of the rock mass is calculated for some very complicated DFNs (the DFN may contain 1272 fractures, 633 connected fractures, and 16,270 closed loops). The results are compared with other approaches to demonstrate the veracity and efficiency of the approach proposed in this paper.

  14. A new concept of feature-based gauge for coordinate measuring arm evaluation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cuesta, E.; González-Madruga, D.; Alvarez, B. J.; Barreiro, J.

    2014-06-01

    Articulated arm coordinate measuring machines (AACMM or CMA) have conquered a market share in the actual dimensional metrology field, overall when their role implies the inspection of geometrical and dimensional tolerances in an accurate 3D environment for medium-size parts. However, the unavoidable fact of AACMM manual operation constrains its reliability to a great extent, avoiding rigorous evaluation and casting doubt upon the usefulness of external calibration. In this research, a dimensional gauge especially aimed at AACMM evaluation has been developed. Furthermore, the operator skill will be revealed through the use of this gauge. A set of geometrical features, some of them oriented to evaluate the operator and others the equipment, have been collected for the gauge. The proposed evaluation methodology clearly distinguishes between dimensional and geometrical tolerances (with or without datum references), whereas actual verification standards only consider the former. Next, quality indicators deduced from the measurement results are proposed in order to compare AACMM versus coordinate measuring machine (CMM) performance, assuming that CMM possess the maximum accuracy that AACMM could reach, because CMM combines maximum contact accuracy with minimum operator influence. As a result, AACMM evaluation time could be significantly reduced since this gauge allows us to perform a customized evaluation of only those specific tolerances of interest to the user.

  15. Enhancing radiation tolerance by controlling defect mobility and migration pathways in multicomponent single-phase alloys

    DOE PAGES

    Lu, Chenyang; Niu, Liangliang; Chen, Nanjun; ...

    2016-12-15

    A grand challenge in material science is to understand the correlation between intrinsic properties and defect dynamics. Radiation tolerant materials are in great demand for safe operation and advancement of nuclear and aerospace systems. Unlike traditional approaches that rely on microstructural and nanoscale features to mitigate radiation damage, this study demonstrates enhancement of radiation tolerance with the suppression of void formation by two orders magnitude at elevated temperatures in equiatomic single-phase concentrated solid solution alloys, and more importantly, reveals its controlling mechanism through a detailed analysis of the depth distribution of defect clusters and an atomistic computer simulation. The enhancedmore » swelling resistance is attributed to the tailored interstitial defect cluster motion in the alloys from a long-range one-dimensional mode to a short-range three-dimensional mode, which leads to enhanced point defect recombination. Finally, the results suggest design criteria for next generation radiation tolerant structural alloys.« less

  16. Pesticide tolerance in amphibians: induced tolerance in susceptible populations, constitutive tolerance in tolerant populations

    PubMed Central

    Hua, Jessica; Morehouse, Nathan I; Relyea, Rick

    2013-01-01

    The role of plasticity in shaping adaptations is important to understanding the expression of traits within individuals and the evolution of populations. With increasing human impacts on the environment, one challenge is to consider how plasticity shapes responses to anthropogenic stressors such as contaminants. To our knowledge, only one study (using mosquitoes) has considered the possibility of induced insecticide tolerance. Using populations of wood frogs (Lithobates sylvaticus) located close to and far from agricultural fields, we discovered that exposing some populations of embryos and hatchlings to sublethal concentrations of the insecticide carbaryl induced higher tolerance to a subsequent lethal concentration later in life. Interestingly, the inducible populations were located >800 m from agricultural areas and were the most susceptible to the insecticide. In contrast, the noninducible populations were located close to agricultural areas and were the least susceptible. We also found that sublethal concentrations of carbaryl induced higher tadpole AChE concentrations in several cases. This is the first study to demonstrate inducible tolerance in a vertebrate species and the pattern of inducible and constitutive tolerance among populations suggests the process of genetic assimilation. PMID:24187585

  17. HIFiRE-5 Flight Vehicle Design

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Kimmel, Roger L.; Adamczak, David; Berger, Karen; Choudhari, Meelan

    2010-01-01

    The Hypersonic International Flight Research Experimentation (HIFiRE) program is a hypersonic flight test program executed by the Air Force Research Laboratories (AFRL) and Australian Defence Science and Technology Organization (DSTO). HIFiRE flight 5 is devoted to measuring transition on a three-dimensional body. This paper summarizes payload configuration, trajectory, vehicle stability limits and roughness tolerances. Results show that the proposed configuration is suitable for testing transition on a three-dimensional body. Transition is predicted to occur within the test window, and a design has been developed that will allow the vehicle to be manufactured within prescribed roughness tolerances

  18. A proteomic approach towards the analysis of salt tolerance in Rhizobium etli and Sinorhizobium meliloti strains.

    PubMed

    Shamseldin, Abdelaal; Nyalwidhe, Julius; Werner, Dietrich

    2006-05-01

    Soluble proteins from the salt-tolerant Rhizobium etli strain EBRI 26 were separated by two-dimensional (2D) gel electrophoresis and visualised by Commassie staining. Six proteins are highly expressed after induction by 4% NaCl compared to the non-salt-stressed cells. These proteins have pI between 5 and 5.5 and masses of approximately 22, 25, 40, 65, 70, and 95 kDa. These proteins were analysed by Matrix-assisted laser adsorption ionization time of flight (MALDI-TOF) after digestion with trypsin. Despite having very good peptide mass fingerprint data, these proteins could not be identified, because the genome sequence of R. etli is not yet published. In a second approach, soluble proteins from salt-induced or non-salt-induced cultures from R. etli strain EBRI 26 were separately labelled with different fluorescent cyano-dyes prior to 2D difference in gel electrophoresis. Results revealed that 49 proteins are differentially expressed after the addition of sodium chloride. Fourteen proteins are overexpressed and 35 were downregulated. The genome of Sinorhizobium meliloti, a closely related species to R. etli, has been published. Similar experiments using Sinorhizobium meliloti strain 2011 identified four overexpressed and six downregulated proteins. Among the overexpressed protein is a carboxynospermidin decarboxylase, which plays an important role in the biosynthesis of spermidin (polyamine). The enzyme catalase is among the downregulated proteins. These proteins may play a role in salt tolerance.

  19. pH Tolerance in Freshwater Bacterioplankton: Trait Variation of the Community as Measured by Leucine Incorporation

    PubMed Central

    Kritzberg, Emma

    2015-01-01

    pH is an important factor determining bacterial community composition in soil and water. We have directly determined the community tolerance (trait variation) to pH in communities from 22 lakes and streams ranging in pH from 4 to 9 using a growth-based method not relying on distinguishing between individual populations. The pH in the water samples was altered to up to 16 pH values, covering in situ pH ± 2.5 U, and the tolerance was assessed by measuring bacterial growth (Leu incorporation) instantaneously after pH adjustment. The resulting unimodal response curves, reflecting community tolerance to pH, were well modeled with a double logistic equation (mean R2 = 0.97). The optimal pH for growth (pHopt) among the bacterial communities was closely correlated with in situ pH, with a slope (0.89 ± 0.099) close to unity. The pH interval, in which growth was ≥90% of that at pHopt, was 1.1 to 3 pH units wide (mean 2.0 pH units). Tolerance response curves of communities originating from circum-neutral pH were symmetrical, whereas in high-pH (8.9) and especially in low-pH (<5.5) waters, asymmetric tolerance curves were found. In low-pH waters, decreasing pH was more detrimental for bacterial growth than increasing pH, with a tendency for the opposite for high-pH waters. A pH tolerance index, using the ratio of growth at only two pH values (pH 4 and 8), was closely related to pHopt (R2 = 0.83), allowing for easy determination of pH tolerance during rapid changes in pH. PMID:26276108

  20. Insects at low pressure: applications to artificial ecosystems and implications for global windborne distribution

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Cockell, C.; Catling, D.; Waites, H.

    1999-01-01

    Insects have a number of potential roles in closed-loop life support systems. In this study we examined the tolerance of a range of insect orders and life stages to drops in atmospheric pressure using a terrestrial atmosphere. We found that all insects studied could tolerate pressures down to 100 mb. No effects on insect respiration were noted down to 500 mb. Pressure toleration was not dependent on body volume. Our studies demonstrate that insects are compatible with plants in low-pressure artificial and closed-loop ecosystems. The results also have implications for arthropod colonization and global distribution on Earth.

  1. 40 CFR 86.115-78 - EPA urban dynamometer driving schedule.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... the target schedule as closely as possible. The speed tolerance at any given time for these schedules... time. (3)(i) Speed variations greater than the tolerances (such as may occur during gear changes or... variations greater than the tolerance are acceptable, provided they occur for less than 15 seconds on any...

  2. A Realistic Framework for Delay-Tolerant Network Routing in Open Terrains with Continuous Churn

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mahendran, Veeramani; Anirudh, Sivaraman K.; Murthy, C. Siva Ram

    The conventional analysis of Delay-Tolerant Network (DTN) routing assumes that the terrain over which nodes move is closed implying that when the nodes hit a boundary, they either wrap around or get reflected. In this work, we study the effect of relaxing this closed terrain assumption on the routing performance, where a continuous stream of nodes enter the terrain and get absorbed upon hitting the boundary.

  3. On flaw tolerance of nacre: a theoretical study

    PubMed Central

    Shao, Yue; Zhao, Hong-Ping; Feng, Xi-Qiao

    2014-01-01

    As a natural composite, nacre has an elegant staggered ‘brick-and-mortar’ microstructure consisting of mineral platelets glued by organic macromolecules, which endows the material with superior mechanical properties to achieve its biological functions. In this paper, a microstructure-based crack-bridging model is employed to investigate how the strength of nacre is affected by pre-existing structural defects. Our analysis demonstrates that owing to its special microstructure and the toughening effect of platelets, nacre has a superior flaw-tolerance feature. The maximal crack size that does not evidently reduce the tensile strength of nacre is up to tens of micrometres, about three orders higher than that of pure aragonite. Through dimensional analysis, a non-dimensional parameter is proposed to quantify the flaw-tolerance ability of nacreous materials in a wide range of structural parameters. This study provides us some inspirations for optimal design of advanced biomimetic composites. PMID:24402917

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

    Lu, Chenyang; Niu, Liangliang; Chen, Nanjun

    A grand challenge in material science is to understand the correlation between intrinsic properties and defect dynamics. Radiation tolerant materials are in great demand for safe operation and advancement of nuclear and aerospace systems. Unlike traditional approaches that rely on microstructural and nanoscale features to mitigate radiation damage, this study demonstrates enhancement of radiation tolerance with the suppression of void formation by two orders magnitude at elevated temperatures in equiatomic single-phase concentrated solid solution alloys, and more importantly, reveals its controlling mechanism through a detailed analysis of the depth distribution of defect clusters and an atomistic computer simulation. The enhancedmore » swelling resistance is attributed to the tailored interstitial defect cluster motion in the alloys from a long-range one-dimensional mode to a short-range three-dimensional mode, which leads to enhanced point defect recombination. Finally, the results suggest design criteria for next generation radiation tolerant structural alloys.« less

  5. Tolerance analysis of optical telescopes using coherent addition of wavefront errors

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Davenport, J. W.

    1982-01-01

    A near diffraction-limited telescope requires that tolerance analysis be done on the basis of system wavefront error. One method of analyzing the wavefront error is to represent the wavefront error function in terms of its Zernike polynomial expansion. A Ramsey-Korsch ray trace package, a computer program that simulates the tracing of rays through an optical telescope system, was expanded to include the Zernike polynomial expansion up through the fifth-order spherical term. An option to determine a 3 dimensional plot of the wavefront error function was also included in the Ramsey-Korsch package. Several assimulation runs were analyzed to determine the particular set of coefficients in the Zernike expansion that are effected by various errors such as tilt, decenter and despace. A 3 dimensional plot of each error up through the fifth-order spherical term was also included in the study. Tolerance analysis data are presented.

  6. Orthodontic Bracket Manufacturing Tolerances and Dimensional Differences between Select Self-Ligating Brackets

    PubMed Central

    Major, Thomas W.; Carey, Jason P.; Nobes, David S.; Major, Paul W.

    2010-01-01

    In all manufacturing processes there are tolerances; however, orthodontic bracket manufacturers seldom state the slot dimensional tolerances. This experiment develops a novel method of analyzing slot profile dimensions using photographs of the slot. Five points are selected along each wall, and lines are fitted to define a trapezoidal slot shape. This investigation measures slot height at the slot's top and bottom, angles between walls, slot taper, and the linearity of each wall. Slot dimensions for 30 upper right central incisor self-ligating stainless steel brackets from three manufacturers were evaluated. Speed brackets have a slot height 2% smaller than the nominal 0.559 mm size and have a slightly convergent taper. In-Ovation brackets have a divergent taper at an average angle of 1.47 degrees. In-Ovation is closest to the nominal value of slot height at the slot base and has the smallest manufacturing tolerances. Damon Q brackets are the most rectangular in shape, with nearly 90-degree corners between the slot bottom and walls. Damon slot height is on average 3% oversized. PMID:20981299

  7. Allocating application to group of consecutive processors in fault-tolerant deadlock-free routing path defined by routers obeying same rules for path selection

    DOEpatents

    Leung, Vitus J [Albuquerque, NM; Phillips, Cynthia A [Albuquerque, NM; Bender, Michael A [East Northport, NY; Bunde, David P [Urbana, IL

    2009-07-21

    In a multiple processor computing apparatus, directional routing restrictions and a logical channel construct permit fault tolerant, deadlock-free routing. Processor allocation can be performed by creating a linear ordering of the processors based on routing rules used for routing communications between the processors. The linear ordering can assume a loop configuration, and bin-packing is applied to this loop configuration. The interconnection of the processors can be conceptualized as a generally rectangular 3-dimensional grid, and the MC allocation algorithm is applied with respect to the 3-dimensional grid.

  8. Homology modeling and docking studies of a Δ9-fatty acid desaturase from a Cold-tolerant Pseudomonas sp. AMS8

    PubMed Central

    Garba, Lawal; Mohamad Yussoff, Mohamad Ariff; Abd Halim, Khairul Bariyyah; Ishak, Siti Nor Hasmah; Mohamad Ali, Mohd Shukuri; Oslan, Siti Nurbaya

    2018-01-01

    Membrane-bound fatty acid desaturases perform oxygenated desaturation reactions to insert double bonds within fatty acyl chains in regioselective and stereoselective manners. The Δ9-fatty acid desaturase strictly creates the first double bond between C9 and 10 positions of most saturated substrates. As the three-dimensional structures of the bacterial membrane fatty acid desaturases are not available, relevant information about the enzymes are derived from their amino acid sequences, site-directed mutagenesis and domain swapping in similar membrane-bound desaturases. The cold-tolerant Pseudomonas sp. AMS8 was found to produce high amount of monounsaturated fatty acids at low temperature. Subsequently, an active Δ9-fatty acid desaturase was isolated and functionally expressed in Escherichia coli. In this paper we report homology modeling and docking studies of a Δ9-fatty acid desaturase from a Cold-tolerant Pseudomonas sp. AMS8 for the first time to the best of our knowledge. Three dimensional structure of the enzyme was built using MODELLER version 9.18 using a suitable template. The protein model contained the three conserved-histidine residues typical for all membrane-bound desaturase catalytic activity. The structure was subjected to energy minimization and checked for correctness using Ramachandran plots and ERRAT, which showed a good quality model of 91.6 and 65.0%, respectively. The protein model was used to preform MD simulation and docking of palmitic acid using CHARMM36 force field in GROMACS Version 5 and Autodock tool Version 4.2, respectively. The docking simulation with the lowest binding energy, −6.8 kcal/mol had a number of residues in close contact with the docked palmitic acid namely, Ile26, Tyr95, Val179, Gly180, Pro64, Glu203, His34, His206, His71, Arg182, Thr85, Lys98 and His177. Interestingly, among the binding residues are His34, His71 and His206 from the first, second, and third conserved histidine motif, respectively, which constitute the active site of the enzyme. The results obtained are in compliance with the in vivo activity of the Δ9-fatty acid desaturase on the membrane phospholipids. PMID:29576935

  9. Process-based tolerance assessment of connecting rod machining process

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sharma, G. V. S. S.; Rao, P. Srinivasa; Surendra Babu, B.

    2016-06-01

    Process tolerancing based on the process capability studies is the optimistic and pragmatic approach of determining the manufacturing process tolerances. On adopting the define-measure-analyze-improve-control approach, the process potential capability index ( C p) and the process performance capability index ( C pk) values of identified process characteristics of connecting rod machining process are achieved to be greater than the industry benchmark of 1.33, i.e., four sigma level. The tolerance chain diagram methodology is applied to the connecting rod in order to verify the manufacturing process tolerances at various operations of the connecting rod manufacturing process. This paper bridges the gap between the existing dimensional tolerances obtained via tolerance charting and process capability studies of the connecting rod component. Finally, the process tolerancing comparison has been done by adopting a tolerance capability expert software.

  10. Development of a 2-stage shear-cutting-process to reduce cut-edge-sensitivity of steels

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gläsner, T.; Sunderkötter, C.; Hoffmann, H.; Volk, W.; Golle, R.

    2017-09-01

    The edge cracking sensitivity of AHSS and UHSS is a challenging factor in the cold forming process. Expanding cut holes during flanging operations is rather common in automotive components. During these flanging operations the pierced hole is stretched so that its diameter is increased. These flanging operations stretch material that has already been subjected to large amounts of plastic deformation, therefore forming problems may occur. An innovative cutting process decreases micro cracks in the cutting surface and facilitates the subsequent cold forming process. That cutting process consists of two stages, which produces close dimensional tolerance and smooth edges. As a result the hole expanding ratio was increased by nearly 100 % when using thick high strength steels for suspension components. The paper describes the mechanisms of the trimming process at the cut edge, and the positive effect of the 2-stage shear-cutting process on the hole extension capability of multiphase steels.

  11. Genetic analysis of tolerance to boron toxicity in the legume Medicago truncatula.

    PubMed

    Bogacki, Paul; Peck, David M; Nair, Ramakrishnan M; Howie, Jake; Oldach, Klaus H

    2013-03-27

    Medicago truncatula Gaertn. (barrel medic) is cultivated as a pasture legume for its high protein content and ability to improve soils through nitrogen fixation. Toxic concentrations of the micronutrient Boron (B) in agricultural soils hamper the production of cereal and leguminous crops. In cereals, the genetic analysis of B tolerance has led to the development of molecular selection tools to introgress and maintain the B tolerance trait in breeding lines. There is a comparable need for selection tools in legumes that grow on these toxic soils, often in rotation with cereals. Genetic variation for B tolerance in Medicago truncatula was utilised to generate two F2 populations from crosses between tolerant and intolerant parents. Phenotyping under B stress revealed a close correlation between B tolerance and biomass production and a segregation ratio explained by a single dominant locus. M. truncatula homologues of the Arabidopsis major intrinsic protein (MIP) gene AtNIP5;1 and the efflux-type transporter gene AtBOR1, both known for B transport, were identified and nearby molecular markers screened across F2 lines to verify linkage with the B-tolerant phenotype. Most (95%) of the phenotypic variation could be explained by the SSR markers h2_6e22a and h2_21b19a, which flank a cluster of five predicted MIP genes on chromosome 4. Three CAPS markers (MtBtol-1,-2,-3) were developed to dissect the region further. Expression analysis of the five predicted MIPs indicated that only MtNIP3 was expressed when leaf tissue and roots were assessed. MtNIP3 showed low and equal expression in the roots of tolerant and intolerant lines but a 4-fold higher expression level in the leaves of B-tolerant cultivars. The expression profile correlates closely with the B concentration measured in the leaves and roots of tolerant and intolerant plants. Whereas no significant difference in B concentration exists between roots of tolerant and intolerant plants, the B concentration in the leaves of tolerant plants is less than half that of intolerant plants, which further supports MtNIP3 as the best candidate for the tolerance trait-defining gene in Medicago truncatula. The close linkage of the MtNIP3 locus to B toxicity tolerance provides a source of molecular selection tools to pasture breeding programs. The economical importance of the locus warrants further investigation of the individual members of the MIP gene cluster in other pasture and in grain legumes.

  12. Genetic analysis of tolerance to Boron toxicity in the legume Medicago truncatula

    PubMed Central

    2013-01-01

    Background Medicago truncatula Gaertn. (barrel medic) is cultivated as a pasture legume for its high protein content and ability to improve soils through nitrogen fixation. Toxic concentrations of the micronutrient Boron (B) in agricultural soils hamper the production of cereal and leguminous crops. In cereals, the genetic analysis of B tolerance has led to the development of molecular selection tools to introgress and maintain the B tolerance trait in breeding lines. There is a comparable need for selection tools in legumes that grow on these toxic soils, often in rotation with cereals. Results Genetic variation for B tolerance in Medicago truncatula was utilised to generate two F2 populations from crosses between tolerant and intolerant parents. Phenotyping under B stress revealed a close correlation between B tolerance and biomass production and a segregation ratio explained by a single dominant locus. M. truncatula homologues of the Arabidopsis major intrinsic protein (MIP) gene AtNIP5;1 and the efflux-type transporter gene AtBOR1, both known for B transport, were identified and nearby molecular markers screened across F2 lines to verify linkage with the B-tolerant phenotype. Most (95%) of the phenotypic variation could be explained by the SSR markers h2_6e22a and h2_21b19a, which flank a cluster of five predicted MIP genes on chromosome 4. Three CAPS markers (MtBtol-1,-2,-3) were developed to dissect the region further. Expression analysis of the five predicted MIPs indicated that only MtNIP3 was expressed when leaf tissue and roots were assessed. MtNIP3 showed low and equal expression in the roots of tolerant and intolerant lines but a 4-fold higher expression level in the leaves of B-tolerant cultivars. The expression profile correlates closely with the B concentration measured in the leaves and roots of tolerant and intolerant plants. Whereas no significant difference in B concentration exists between roots of tolerant and intolerant plants, the B concentration in the leaves of tolerant plants is less than half that of intolerant plants, which further supports MtNIP3 as the best candidate for the tolerance trait-defining gene in Medicago truncatula. Conclusion The close linkage of the MtNIP3 locus to B toxicity tolerance provides a source of molecular selection tools to pasture breeding programs. The economical importance of the locus warrants further investigation of the individual members of the MIP gene cluster in other pasture and in grain legumes. PMID:23531152

  13. pH tolerance in freshwater bacterioplankton: trait variation of the community as measured by leucine incorporation.

    PubMed

    Bååth, Erland; Kritzberg, Emma

    2015-11-01

    pH is an important factor determining bacterial community composition in soil and water. We have directly determined the community tolerance (trait variation) to pH in communities from 22 lakes and streams ranging in pH from 4 to 9 using a growth-based method not relying on distinguishing between individual populations. The pH in the water samples was altered to up to 16 pH values, covering in situ pH ± 2.5 U, and the tolerance was assessed by measuring bacterial growth (Leu incorporation) instantaneously after pH adjustment. The resulting unimodal response curves, reflecting community tolerance to pH, were well modeled with a double logistic equation (mean R(2) = 0.97). The optimal pH for growth (pHopt) among the bacterial communities was closely correlated with in situ pH, with a slope (0.89 ± 0.099) close to unity. The pH interval, in which growth was ≥90% of that at pHopt, was 1.1 to 3 pH units wide (mean 2.0 pH units). Tolerance response curves of communities originating from circum-neutral pH were symmetrical, whereas in high-pH (8.9) and especially in low-pH (<5.5) waters, asymmetric tolerance curves were found. In low-pH waters, decreasing pH was more detrimental for bacterial growth than increasing pH, with a tendency for the opposite for high-pH waters. A pH tolerance index, using the ratio of growth at only two pH values (pH 4 and 8), was closely related to pHopt (R(2) = 0.83), allowing for easy determination of pH tolerance during rapid changes in pH. Copyright © 2015, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

  14. Structural robustness with suboptimal responses for linear state space model

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Keel, L. H.; Lim, Kyong B.; Juang, Jer-Nan

    1989-01-01

    A relationship between the closed-loop eigenvalues and the amount of perturbations in the open-loop matrix is addressed in the context of performance robustness. If the allowable perturbation ranges of elements of the open-loop matrix A and the desired tolerance of the closed-loop eigenvalues are given such that max(j) of the absolute value of Delta-lambda(j) (A+BF) should be less than some prescribed value, what is a state feedback controller F which satisfies the closed-loop eigenvalue perturbation-tolerance requirement for a class of given perturbation in A? The paper gives an algorithm to design such a controller. Numerical examples are included for illustration.

  15. Model-based Roentgen stereophotogrammetry of orthopaedic implants.

    PubMed

    Valstar, E R; de Jong, F W; Vrooman, H A; Rozing, P M; Reiber, J H

    2001-06-01

    Attaching tantalum markers to prostheses for Roentgen stereophotogrammetry (RSA) may be difficult and is sometimes even impossible. In this study, a model-based RSA method that avoids the attachment of markers to prostheses is presented and validated. This model-based RSA method uses a triangulated surface model of the implant. A projected contour of this model is calculated and this calculated model contour is matched onto the detected contour of the actual implant in the RSA radiograph. The difference between the two contours is minimized by variation of the position and orientation of the model. When a minimal difference between the contours is found, an optimal position and orientation of the model has been obtained. The method was validated by means of a phantom experiment. Three prosthesis components were used in this experiment: the femoral and tibial component of an Interax total knee prosthesis (Stryker Howmedica Osteonics Corp., Rutherfort, USA) and the femoral component of a Profix total knee prosthesis (Smith & Nephew, Memphis, USA). For the prosthesis components used in this study, the accuracy of the model-based method is lower than the accuracy of traditional RSA. For the Interax femoral and tibial components, significant dimensional tolerances were found that were probably caused by the casting process and manual polishing of the components surfaces. The largest standard deviation for any translation was 0.19mm and for any rotation it was 0.52 degrees. For the Profix femoral component that had no large dimensional tolerances, the largest standard deviation for any translation was 0.22mm and for any rotation it was 0.22 degrees. From this study we may conclude that the accuracy of the current model-based RSA method is sensitive to dimensional tolerances of the implant. Research is now being conducted to make model-based RSA less sensitive to dimensional tolerances and thereby improving its accuracy.

  16. Integrated multiple-model adaptive fault identification and reconfigurable fault-tolerant control for Lead-Wing close formation systems

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, Chun; Jiang, Bin; Zhang, Ke

    2018-03-01

    This paper investigates the attitude and position tracking control problem for Lead-Wing close formation systems in the presence of loss of effectiveness and lock-in-place or hardover failure. In close formation flight, Wing unmanned aerial vehicle movements are influenced by vortex effects of the neighbouring Lead unmanned aerial vehicle. This situation allows modelling of aerodynamic coupling vortex-effects and linearisation based on optimal close formation geometry. Linearised Lead-Wing close formation model is transformed into nominal robust H-infinity models with respect to Mach hold, Heading hold, and Altitude hold autopilots; static feedback H-infinity controller is designed to guarantee effective tracking of attitude and position while manoeuvring Lead unmanned aerial vehicle. Based on H-infinity control design, an integrated multiple-model adaptive fault identification and reconfigurable fault-tolerant control scheme is developed to guarantee asymptotic stability of close-loop systems, error signal boundedness, and attitude and position tracking properties. Simulation results for Lead-Wing close formation systems validate the efficiency of the proposed integrated multiple-model adaptive control algorithm.

  17. Temperature maxima in stable two-dimensional shock waves

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

    Kum, O.; Hoover, W.G.; Hoover, C.G.

    1997-07-01

    We use molecular dynamics to study the structure of moderately strong shock waves in dense two-dimensional fluids, using Lucy{close_quote}s pair potential. The stationary profiles show relatively broad temperature maxima, for both the longitudinal and the average kinetic temperatures, just as does Mott-Smith{close_quote}s model for strong shock waves in dilute three-dimensional gases. {copyright} {ital 1997} {ital The American Physical Society}

  18. Basal measures of insulin sensitivity and insulin secretion and simplified glucose tolerance tests in dogs.

    PubMed

    Verkest, K R; Fleeman, L M; Rand, J S; Morton, J M

    2010-10-01

    There is need for simple, inexpensive measures of glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, and insulin secretion in dogs. The aim of this study was to estimate the closeness of correlation between fasting and dynamic measures of insulin sensitivity and insulin secretion, the precision of fasting measures, and the agreement between results of standard and simplified glucose tolerance tests in dogs. A retrospective descriptive study using 6 naturally occurring obese and 6 lean dogs was conducted. Data from frequently sampled intravenous glucose tolerance tests (FSIGTTs) in 6 obese and 6 lean client-owned dogs were used to calculate HOMA, QUICKI, fasting glucose and insulin concentrations. Fasting measures of insulin sensitivity and secretion were compared with MINMOD analysis of FSIGTTs using Pearson correlation coefficients, and they were evaluated for precision by the discriminant ratio. Simplified sampling protocols were compared with standard FSIGTTs using Lin's concordance correlation coefficients, limits of agreement, and Pearson correlation coefficients. All fasting measures except fasting plasma glucose concentration were moderately correlated with MINMOD-estimated insulin sensitivity (|r| = 0.62-0.80; P < 0.03), and those that combined fasting insulin and glucose were moderately closely correlated with MINMOD-estimated insulin secretion (r = 0.60-0.79; P < 0.04). HOMA calculated using the nonlinear formulae had the closest estimated correlation (r = 0.77 and 0.74) and the best discrimination for insulin sensitivity and insulin secretion (discriminant ratio 4.4 and 3.4, respectively). Simplified sampling protocols with half as many samples collected over 3 h had close agreement with the full sampling protocol. Fasting measures and simplified intravenous glucose tolerance tests reflect insulin sensitivity and insulin secretion derived from frequently sampled glucose tolerance tests with MINMOD analysis in dogs. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  19. Flaw tolerance promoted by dissipative deformation mechanisms between material building blocks

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Verho, Tuukka; Buehler, Markus J.

    2014-09-01

    Novel high-performance composite materials often draw inspiration from natural materials such as bone or mollusc shells. A prime feature of such composites is that they are, like their natural counterparts, quasibrittle. They are tolerant to material flaws up to a certain characteristic flaw-tolerant size scale, exhibiting high strength and toughness, but start to behave in a brittle manner when sufficiently large flaws are present. Here, we establish that better flaw tolerance can be achieved by maximizing fracture toughness relative to the maximum elastic energy available in the material, and we demonstrate this concept with simple two-dimensional coarse-grained simulations where the transition from brittle to quasibrittle behaviour is examined.

  20. [Tricuspid insufficiency and right traumatic ventricular aneurysm. Apropos of a case].

    PubMed

    Boisselier, P; Lombaert, M; Rey, J L; Quiret, J C; Bernasconi, P

    1981-12-01

    Tricuspid incompetence associated with a right ventricular aneurysm wa discovered after a non-penetrating thoracic injury. The severity of the tricuspid lesion was confirmed by phonomechanography, catheterisation and angiography. The mechanism was demonstrated by two-dimensional echocardiography: the right ventricular aneurysm was located in the right ventricular outflow tract. As the hemodynamic tolerance was good, surgery was not performed. A review of the literature found 41 other reports of traumatic tricuspid incompetence, and 4 cases of right ventricular aneurysm, only one of which was associated with tricuspid regurgitation. The points of interest of ths case: the rarity of the association, the good hemodynamic tolerance and the value of two-dimensional echocardiography for the diagnosis of ruptured chordae in the absence of surgical observations.

  1. Dimensional accuracy of aluminium extrusions in mechanical calibration

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Raknes, Christian Arne; Welo, Torgeir; Paulsen, Frode

    2018-05-01

    Reducing dimensional variations in the extrusion process without increasing cost is challenging due to the nature of the process itself. An alternative approach—also from a cost perspective—is using extruded profiles with standard tolerances and utilize downstream processes, and thus calibrate the part within tolerance limits that are not achievable directly from the extrusion process. In this paper, two mechanical calibration strategies for the extruded product are investigated, utilizing the forming lines of the manufacturer. The first calibration strategy is based on global, longitudinal stretching in combination with local bending, while the second strategy utilizes the principle of transversal stretching and local bending of the cross-section. An extruded U-profile is used to make a comparison between the two methods using numerical analyses. To provide response surfaces with the FEA program, ABAQUS is used in combination with Design of Experiment (DOE). DOE is conducted with a two-level fractional factorial design to collect the appropriate data. The aim is to find the main factors affecting the dimension accuracy of the final part obtained by the two calibration methods. The results show that both calibration strategies have proven to reduce cross-sectional variations effectively form standard extrusion tolerances. It is concluded that mechanical calibration is a viable, low-cost alternative for aluminium parts that demand high dimensional accuracy, e.g. due to fit-up or welding requirements.

  2. Thirsty Plants in Arid Places

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Schaffer, Linda; Kingsley, Karla V.

    2009-01-01

    In order to demonstrate how plants remove water from the soil and release it to the atmosphere, students compared open- and closed-growing systems using drought-tolerant and higher water requirement plants. Then, students designed a drought-tolerant garden demonstrating what they had learned. Through this experience, students not only learned…

  3. Precise Electrochemical Drilling of Repeated Deep Holes

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Kincheloe, J. P.

    1985-01-01

    Tooling enables maintenance of close tolerances. Tooling includes guide that holds electrochemical drilling electrodes in proper relative alinement and guide-positioning fixture clamps directly on reference surfaces of strut. High precision achieved by positioning tooling anew on each strut before drilling: Tolerances of (0.008 mm) maintained in some details.

  4. D.b.h./crown diameter relationships in mixed Appalachian hardwood stands

    Treesearch

    Neil I. Lamson; Neil I. Lamson

    1987-01-01

    Linear regression formulae for predicting crown diameter as a function of stem diameter are presented for nine species found in 50- to 80-year-old mixed hardwood stands in north-central West Virginia. Generally, crown diameter was closely related to tolerance; more tolerant species had larger crowns.

  5. Is desiccation tolerance and avoidance reflected in xylem and phloem anatomy of two co-existing arid-zone coniferous trees?: Xylem and Phloem Anatomy

    DOE PAGES

    Sevanto, Sanna Annika; Ryan, Max; Turin Dickman, L.; ...

    2018-03-22

    Plants close their stomata during drought to avoid excessive water loss, but species differ in respect to the drought severity at which stomata close. The stomatal closure point is related to xylem anatomy and vulnerability to embolism, but it also has implications for phloem transport, and possibly phloem anatomy to allow sugar transport at low water potentials. Desiccation tolerant plants that close their stomata at severe drought should have smaller xylem conduits and/or fewer and smaller inter-conduit pits to reduce vulnerability to embolism, but more phloem tissue and larger phloem conduits compared to plants that avoid desiccation. These anatomical differencesmore » could be expected to increase in response to long-term reduction in precipitation. To test these hypotheses we used tridimensional synchroton X-ray microtomograph and light microscope imaging of combined xylem and phloem tissues of two coniferous species: one-seed juniper (Juniperus monosperma) and piñon pine (Pinus edulis) subjected to precipitation manipulation treatments. These species show different xylem vulnerability to embolism, contrasting desiccation tolerance, and stomatal closure points. Our results support the hypothesis that desiccation tolerant plants require higher phloem transport capacity than desiccation avoiding plants, but this can be gained through various anatomical adaptations in addition to changing conduit or tissue size.« less

  6. Is desiccation tolerance and avoidance reflected in xylem and phloem anatomy of two co-existing arid-zone coniferous trees?: Xylem and Phloem Anatomy

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

    Sevanto, Sanna Annika; Ryan, Max; Turin Dickman, L.

    Plants close their stomata during drought to avoid excessive water loss, but species differ in respect to the drought severity at which stomata close. The stomatal closure point is related to xylem anatomy and vulnerability to embolism, but it also has implications for phloem transport, and possibly phloem anatomy to allow sugar transport at low water potentials. Desiccation tolerant plants that close their stomata at severe drought should have smaller xylem conduits and/or fewer and smaller inter-conduit pits to reduce vulnerability to embolism, but more phloem tissue and larger phloem conduits compared to plants that avoid desiccation. These anatomical differencesmore » could be expected to increase in response to long-term reduction in precipitation. To test these hypotheses we used tridimensional synchroton X-ray microtomograph and light microscope imaging of combined xylem and phloem tissues of two coniferous species: one-seed juniper (Juniperus monosperma) and piñon pine (Pinus edulis) subjected to precipitation manipulation treatments. These species show different xylem vulnerability to embolism, contrasting desiccation tolerance, and stomatal closure points. Our results support the hypothesis that desiccation tolerant plants require higher phloem transport capacity than desiccation avoiding plants, but this can be gained through various anatomical adaptations in addition to changing conduit or tissue size.« less

  7. Estimating habitat volume of living resources using three-dimensional circulation and biogeochemical models

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Smith, Katharine A.; Schlag, Zachary; North, Elizabeth W.

    2018-07-01

    Coupled three-dimensional circulation and biogeochemical models predict changes in water properties that can be used to define fish habitat, including physiologically important parameters such as temperature, salinity, and dissolved oxygen. However, methods for calculating the volume of habitat defined by the intersection of multiple water properties are not well established for coupled three-dimensional models. The objectives of this research were to examine multiple methods for calculating habitat volume from three-dimensional model predictions, select the most robust approach, and provide an example application of the technique. Three methods were assessed: the "Step," "Ruled Surface", and "Pentahedron" methods, the latter of which was developed as part of this research. Results indicate that the analytical Pentahedron method is exact, computationally efficient, and preserves continuity in water properties between adjacent grid cells. As an example application, the Pentahedron method was implemented within the Habitat Volume Model (HabVol) using output from a circulation model with an Arakawa C-grid and physiological tolerances of juvenile striped bass (Morone saxatilis). This application demonstrates that the analytical Pentahedron method can be successfully applied to calculate habitat volume using output from coupled three-dimensional circulation and biogeochemical models, and it indicates that the Pentahedron method has wide application to aquatic and marine systems for which these models exist and physiological tolerances of organisms are known.

  8. Relaxed Manufacturing Design Tolerance Concepts. Volume 2. Appendices

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1977-07-01

    are typical for such a part. A rough and finish pass is made to web thickness, a rough cut is made in the corners and then the stlf- fener walls...the programmed teed rate a little more on the second side due to having less material behind the web ; however, a designer usually provides for...Typical Survov Data Rocord Recommended Relaxation on Drawing Tolerances for Webs and Stiffcners Web Dimensional Deviation Occurrences vs. Stiffener

  9. (2+1)-dimensional spacetimes containing closed timelike curves

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Headrick, Matthew P.; Gott, J. Richard, III

    1994-12-01

    We investigate the global geometries of (2+1)-dimensional spacetimes as characterized by the transformations undergone by tangent spaces upon parallel transport around closed curves. We critically discuss the use of the term ``total energy-momentum'' as a label for such parallel-transport transformations, pointing out several problems with it. We then investigate parallel-transport transformations in the known (2+1)-dimensional spacetimes containing closed timelike curves (CTC's), and introduce a few new such spacetimes. Using the more specific concept of the holonomy of a closed curve, applicable in simply connected spacetimes, we emphasize that Gott's two-particle CTC-containing spacetime does not have a tachyonic geometry. Finally, we prove the following modified version of Kabat's conjecture: if a CTC is deformable to spacelike or null infinity while remaining a CTC, then its parallel-transport transformation cannot be a rotation; therefore its holonomy, if defined, cannot be a rotation other than through a multiple of 2π.

  10. Combined Dynamic Time Warping with Multiple Sensors for 3D Gesture Recognition

    PubMed Central

    2017-01-01

    Cyber-physical systems, which closely integrate physical systems and humans, can be applied to a wider range of applications through user movement analysis. In three-dimensional (3D) gesture recognition, multiple sensors are required to recognize various natural gestures. Several studies have been undertaken in the field of gesture recognition; however, gesture recognition was conducted based on data captured from various independent sensors, which rendered the capture and combination of real-time data complicated. In this study, a 3D gesture recognition method using combined information obtained from multiple sensors is proposed. The proposed method can robustly perform gesture recognition regardless of a user’s location and movement directions by providing viewpoint-weighted values and/or motion-weighted values. In the proposed method, the viewpoint-weighted dynamic time warping with multiple sensors has enhanced performance by preventing joint measurement errors and noise due to sensor measurement tolerance, which has resulted in the enhancement of recognition performance by comparing multiple joint sequences effectively. PMID:28817094

  11. Robust cooperation of connected vehicle systems with eigenvalue-bounded interaction topologies in the presence of uncertain dynamics

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Keqiang; Gao, Feng; Li, Shengbo Eben; Zheng, Yang; Gao, Hongbo

    2017-12-01

    This study presents a distributed H-infinity control method for uncertain platoons with dimensionally and structurally unknown interaction topologies provided that the associated topological eigenvalues are bounded by a predesigned range.With an inverse model to compensate for nonlinear powertrain dynamics, vehicles in a platoon are modeled by third-order uncertain systems with bounded disturbances. On the basis of the eigenvalue decomposition of topological matrices, we convert the platoon system to a norm-bounded uncertain part and a diagonally structured certain part by applying linear transformation. We then use a common Lyapunov method to design a distributed H-infinity controller. Numerically, two linear matrix inequalities corresponding to the minimum and maximum eigenvalues should be solved. The resulting controller can tolerate interaction topologies with eigenvalues located in a certain range. The proposed method can also ensure robustness performance and disturbance attenuation ability for the closed-loop platoon system. Hardware-in-the-loop tests are performed to validate the effectiveness of our method.

  12. Combined Dynamic Time Warping with Multiple Sensors for 3D Gesture Recognition.

    PubMed

    Choi, Hyo-Rim; Kim, TaeYong

    2017-08-17

    Cyber-physical systems, which closely integrate physical systems and humans, can be applied to a wider range of applications through user movement analysis. In three-dimensional (3D) gesture recognition, multiple sensors are required to recognize various natural gestures. Several studies have been undertaken in the field of gesture recognition; however, gesture recognition was conducted based on data captured from various independent sensors, which rendered the capture and combination of real-time data complicated. In this study, a 3D gesture recognition method using combined information obtained from multiple sensors is proposed. The proposed method can robustly perform gesture recognition regardless of a user's location and movement directions by providing viewpoint-weighted values and/or motion-weighted values. In the proposed method, the viewpoint-weighted dynamic time warping with multiple sensors has enhanced performance by preventing joint measurement errors and noise due to sensor measurement tolerance, which has resulted in the enhancement of recognition performance by comparing multiple joint sequences effectively.

  13. The dynamic characteristics of a turbo-rotor simulator supported on gas-lubricated foil bearings. Part 1: Response to rotating imbalance and unidirectional excitation

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Licht, L.

    1970-01-01

    A sixteen-inch rotor, weighing approximately twenty-one pounds, was supported by air-lubricated foil bearings. In physical size and in mass distribution, the rotor closely matched that of an experimental Brayton cycle turboalternator unit. The rotor was stable in both vertical horizontal attitudes at speeds up to 50,000 rpm. A detailed description of the experimental apparatus and of the foil bearing design are given. The paper contains data on response of the rotor to rotating imbalance, symmetric and asymmetric, and to excitation by means of a vibrator (shake table). It is concluded that the gas-lubricated foil bearing suspension is free from fractional frequency whirl and suffers no loss of load capacity when excited at frequency equal to half the rotational speed. In contrast to rigid gas bearings, the foil bearing imposes no stringent requirements with respect to dimensional tolerances, cleanliness, or limitations of journal motion within the narrow confines of bearing clearance.

  14. The evolution of desiccation-tolerance in angiosperm plants, a rare yet common phenomenon!

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    In a minute proportion of angiosperm species, rehydrating foliage can revive from airdryness or even from equilibration with air of ~0% relative humidity. Such desiccation tolerance is known from vegetative cells of some species of algae and of major groups close to the evolutionary path of the angi...

  15. Development of a New Scale to Measure Ambiguity Tolerance in Veterinary Students.

    PubMed

    Hammond, Jennifer A; Hancock, Jason; Martin, Margaret S; Jamieson, Susan; Mellor, Dominic J

    The ability to cope with ambiguity and feelings of uncertainty is an essential part of professional practice. Research with physicians has identified that intolerance of ambiguity or uncertainty is linked to stress, and some authors have hypothesized that there could be an association between intolerance of ambiguity and burnout. We describe the adaptation of the TAMSAD (Tolerance of Ambiguity in Medical Students and Doctors) scale for use with veterinary students. Exploratory factor analysis supports a uni-dimensional structure for the Ambiguity tolerance construct. Although internal reliability of the 29-item TAMSAD scale is reasonable (α=.50), an alternative 27-item scale (drawn from the original 41 items used to develop TAMSAD) shows higher internal reliability for veterinary students (α=.67). We conclude that there is good evidence to support the validity of this latter TAVS (Tolerance of Ambiguity in Veterinary Students) scale to study ambiguity tolerance in veterinary students.

  16. Evolved pesticide tolerance in amphibians: Predicting mechanisms based on pesticide novelty and mode of action.

    PubMed

    Hua, Jessica; Jones, Devin K; Mattes, Brian M; Cothran, Rickey D; Relyea, Rick A; Hoverman, Jason T

    2015-11-01

    We examined 10 wood frog populations distributed along an agricultural gradient for their tolerance to six pesticides (carbaryl, malathion, cypermethrin, permethrin, imidacloprid, and thiamethoxam) that differed in date of first registration (pesticide novelty) and mode-of-action (MOA). Our goals were to assess whether: 1) tolerance was correlated with distance to agriculture for each pesticide, 2) pesticide novelty predicted the likelihood of evolved tolerance, and 3) populations display cross-tolerance between pesticides that share and differ in MOA. Wood frog populations located close to agriculture were more tolerant to carbaryl and malathion than populations far from agriculture. Moreover, the strength of the relationship between distance to agriculture and tolerance was stronger for older pesticides compared to newer pesticides. Finally, we found evidence for cross-tolerance between carbaryl and malathion (two pesticides that share MOA). This study provides one of the most comprehensive approaches for understanding patterns of evolved tolerance in non-pest species. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  17. Comparison of Dimensional Accuracy between Open-Tray and Closed-Tray Implant Impression Technique in 15° Angled Implants

    PubMed Central

    Balouch, F; Jalalian, E; Nikkheslat, M; Ghavamian, R; Toopchi, Sh; Jallalian, F; Jalalian, S

    2013-01-01

    Statement of Problem: Various impression techniques have different effects on the accuracy of final cast dimensions. Meanwhile; there are some controversies about the best technique. Purpose: This study was performed to compare two kinds of implant impression methods (open tray and closed tray) on 15 degree angled implants. Materials and Method: In this experimental study, a steel model with 8 cm in diameter and 3 cm in height were produced with 3 holes devised inside to stabilize 3 implants. The central implant was straight and the other two implants were 15° angled. The two angled implants had 5 cm distance from each other and 3.5 cm from the central implant. Dental stone, high strength (type IV) was used for the main casts. Impression trays were filled with poly ether, and then the two impression techniques (open tray and closed tray) were compared. To evaluate positions of the implants, each cast was analyzed by CMM device in 3 dimensions (x,y,z). Differences in the measurements obtained from final casts and laboratory model were analyzed using t-Test. Results: The obtained results indicated that closed tray impression technique was significantly different in dimensional accuracy when compared with open tray method. Dimensional changes were 129 ± 37μ and 143.5 ± 43.67μ in closed tray and open tray, while coefficient of variation in closed- tray and open tray were reported to be 27.2% and 30.4%, respectively. Conclusion: Closed impression technique had less dimensional changes in comparison with open tray method, so this study suggests that closed tray impression technique is more accurate. PMID:24724130

  18. Differential tolerance to biological and subjective effects of four closely spaced doses of N,N-dimethyltryptamine in humans.

    PubMed

    Strassman, R J; Qualls, C R; Berg, L M

    1996-05-01

    Tolerance of the behavioral effects of the short-acting, endogenous hallucinogen, N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) is seen inconsistently in animals, and has not been produced in humans. The nature and time course of responses to repetitive, closely spaced administrations of an hallucinogenic dose of DMT were characterized. Thirteen experienced hallucinogen users received intravenous 0.3 mg/kg DMT fumarate, or saline placebo, four times, at 30 min intervals, on 2 separate days, in a randomized, double-blind, design. Tolerance to "psychedelic" subjective effects did not occur according to either clinical interview or Hallucinogen Rating Scale scores. Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), prolactin, cortisol, and heart rate responses decreased with repeated DMT administration, although blood pressure did not. These data demonstrate the unique properties of DMT relative to other hallucinogens and underscore the differential regulation of the multiple processes mediating the effects of DMT.

  19. Closed-Loop HIRF Experiments Performed on a Fault Tolerant Flight Control Computer

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Belcastro, Celeste M.

    1997-01-01

    ABSTRACT Closed-loop HIRF experiments were performed on a fault tolerant flight control computer (FCC) at the NASA Langley Research Center. The FCC used in the experiments was a quad-redundant flight control computer executing B737 Autoland control laws. The FCC was placed in one of the mode-stirred reverberation chambers in the HIRF Laboratory and interfaced to a computer simulation of the B737 flight dynamics, engines, sensors, actuators, and atmosphere in the Closed-Loop Systems Laboratory. Disturbances to the aircraft associated with wind gusts and turbulence were simulated during tests. Electrical isolation between the FCC under test and the simulation computer was achieved via a fiber optic interface for the analog and discrete signals. Closed-loop operation of the FCC enabled flight dynamics and atmospheric disturbances affecting the aircraft to be represented during tests. Upset was induced in the FCC as a result of exposure to HIRF, and the effect of upset on the simulated flight of the aircraft was observed and recorded. This paper presents a description of these closed- loop HIRF experiments, upset data obtained from the FCC during these experiments, and closed-loop effects on the simulated flight of the aircraft.

  20. Decentralized Sliding Mode Observer Based Dual Closed-Loop Fault Tolerant Control for Reconfigurable Manipulator against Actuator Failure.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Bo; Li, Chenghao; Liu, Derong; Li, Yuanchun

    2015-01-01

    This paper considers a decentralized fault tolerant control (DFTC) scheme for reconfigurable manipulators. With the appearance of norm-bounded failure, a dual closed-loop trajectory tracking control algorithm is proposed on the basis of the Lyapunov stability theory. Characterized by the modularization property, the actuator failure is estimated by the proposed decentralized sliding mode observer (DSMO). Moreover, the actuator failure can be treated in view of the local joint information, so its control performance degradation is independent of other normal joints. In addition, the presented DFTC scheme is significantly simplified in terms of the structure of the controller due to its dual closed-loop architecture, and its feasibility is highly reflected in the control of reconfigurable manipulators. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed DFTC scheme is demonstrated using simulations.

  1. Decentralized Sliding Mode Observer Based Dual Closed-Loop Fault Tolerant Control for Reconfigurable Manipulator against Actuator Failure

    PubMed Central

    Zhao, Bo; Li, Yuanchun

    2015-01-01

    This paper considers a decentralized fault tolerant control (DFTC) scheme for reconfigurable manipulators. With the appearance of norm-bounded failure, a dual closed-loop trajectory tracking control algorithm is proposed on the basis of the Lyapunov stability theory. Characterized by the modularization property, the actuator failure is estimated by the proposed decentralized sliding mode observer (DSMO). Moreover, the actuator failure can be treated in view of the local joint information, so its control performance degradation is independent of other normal joints. In addition, the presented DFTC scheme is significantly simplified in terms of the structure of the controller due to its dual closed-loop architecture, and its feasibility is highly reflected in the control of reconfigurable manipulators. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed DFTC scheme is demonstrated using simulations. PMID:26181826

  2. Installation and assembly device and method of using

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

    Kolsun, G.J.

    1995-12-31

    The present invention relates to an installation and assembly device and method for facilitating the fitup of mating components during blind or remote installation and assembly, especially where close fitup tolerances are involved. The present invention is particularly useful for the purpose of facilitating vertical and/or radial relative positioning of a pump impeller within a mating inlet nozzle during a blind assembly wherein actual fitup cannot be observed during installation. The information within identifies just one successful application of the installation and assembly alignment device for a pump. The device, however, is not solely limited to pump assembly but canmore » be used in other cases where fitup of a sleeve inside a mating bore is required under conditions of close tolerance during a blind or remote assembly. The device is likewise not limited to circular configurations but can be used for many other shapes or configurations. Any material that can be machined and hold reasonably close tolerances can be used for the device. Also, because the sleeve position is adjusted by set screws or bolts, the concentricity can be radially biased, if required, to achieve particular alignment conditions.« less

  3. Microstructure based model for sound absorption predictions of perforated closed-cell metallic foams.

    PubMed

    Chevillotte, Fabien; Perrot, Camille; Panneton, Raymond

    2010-10-01

    Closed-cell metallic foams are known for their rigidity, lightness, thermal conductivity as well as their low production cost compared to open-cell metallic foams. However, they are also poor sound absorbers. Similarly to a rigid solid, a method to enhance their sound absorption is to perforate them. This method has shown good preliminary results but has not yet been analyzed from a microstructure point of view. The objective of this work is to better understand how perforations interact with closed-cell foam microstructure and how it modifies the sound absorption of the foam. A simple two-dimensional microstructural model of the perforated closed-cell metallic foam is presented and numerically solved. A rough three-dimensional conversion of the two-dimensional results is proposed. The results obtained with the calculation method show that the perforated closed-cell foam behaves similarly to a perforated solid; however, its sound absorption is modulated by the foam microstructure, and most particularly by the diameters of both perforation and pore. A comparison with measurements demonstrates that the proposed calculation method yields realistic trends. Some design guides are also proposed.

  4. Multiple cold resistance loci confer the high cold tolerance adaptation of Dongxiang wild rice (Oryza rufipogon) to its high-latitude habitat.

    PubMed

    Mao, Donghai; Yu, Li; Chen, Dazhou; Li, Lanying; Zhu, Yuxing; Xiao, Yeqing; Zhang, Dechun; Chen, Caiyan

    2015-07-01

    Dongxiang wild rice is phylogenetically close to temperate japonica and contains multiple cold resistance loci conferring its adaptation to high-latitude habitat. Understanding the nature of adaptation in wild populations will benefit crop breeding in the development of climate-resilient crop varieties. Dongxiang wild rice (DXWR), the northernmost common wild rice known, possesses a high degree of cold tolerance and can survive overwintering in its native habitat. However, to date, it is still unclear how DXWR evolved to cope with low-temperature environment, resulting in limited application of DXWR in rice breeding programs. In this study, we carried out both QTL mapping and phylogenetic analysis to discern the genetic mechanism underlying the strong cold resistance. Through a combination of interval mapping and single locus analysis in two genetic populations, at least 13 QTLs for seedling cold tolerance were identified in DXWR. A phylogenetic study using both genome-wide InDel markers and markers associated with cold tolerance loci reveals that DXWR belongs to the Or-III group, which is most closely related to cold-tolerant Japonica rice rather than to the Indica cultivars that are predominant in the habitat where DXWR grows. Our study paves the way toward an understanding of the nature of adaptation to a northern habitat in O. rufipogon. The QTLs identified in DXWR in this study will be useful for molecular breeding of cold-tolerant rice.

  5. Two-Dimensional Ordering of Solute Nanoclusters at a Close-Packed Stacking Fault: Modeling and Experimental Analysis

    PubMed Central

    Kimizuka, Hajime; Kurokawa, Shu; Yamaguchi, Akihiro; Sakai, Akira; Ogata, Shigenobu

    2014-01-01

    Predicting the equilibrium ordered structures at internal interfaces, especially in the case of nanometer-scale chemical heterogeneities, is an ongoing challenge in materials science. In this study, we established an ab-initio coarse-grained modeling technique for describing the phase-like behavior of a close-packed stacking-fault-type interface containing solute nanoclusters, which undergo a two-dimensional disorder-order transition, depending on the temperature and composition. Notably, this approach can predict the two-dimensional medium-range ordering in the nanocluster arrays realized in Mg-based alloys, in a manner consistent with scanning tunneling microscopy-based measurements. We predicted that the repulsively interacting solute-cluster system undergoes a continuous evolution into a highly ordered densely packed morphology while maintaining a high degree of six-fold orientational order, which is attributable mainly to an entropic effect. The uncovered interaction-dependent ordering properties may be useful for the design of nanostructured materials utilizing the self-organization of two-dimensional nanocluster arrays in the close-packed interfaces. PMID:25471232

  6. Temperature is better than precipitation as a predictor of plant community assembly across a dryland region

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Butterfield, Bradley J.; Munson, Seth M.

    2016-01-01

    QuestionHow closely do plant communities track climate? Research suggests that plant species converge toward similar environmental tolerances relative to the environments that they experience. Whether these patterns apply to severe environments or scale up to plant community-level patterns of relative climatic tolerances is poorly understood. Using estimates of species' climatic tolerances acquired from occurrence records, we determined the contributions of individual species' climatic niche breadths and environmental filtering to the relationships between community-average climatic tolerances and the local climates experienced by those communities.LocationSouthwestern United States drylands.MethodsInterspecific variation in niche breadth was assessed as a function of species' climatic optima (median climatic niche value). The relationships between climatic optima and tolerances were used as null expectations for the relationship between abundance-weighted mean climatic tolerances of communities and the local climate of that community. Deviations from this null expectation indicate that species with greater or lesser climatic tolerances are favoured relative to co-occurring species. The intensity of environmental filtering was estimated by comparing the range of climatic tolerances within each community to a null distribution generated from a random assembly algorithm.ResultsThe temperature niches of species were consistently symmetrical and of similar breadths, regardless of their temperature optima. In contrast, precipitation niches were skewed toward wetter conditions, and niche breadth increased with increasing precipitation optima. At the community level, relationships with climate were much stronger for temperature than for precipitation. Furthermore, cold and heat were stronger assembly filters than drought or precipitation, with the intensity of environmental filtering increasing at both ends of climatic gradients. Community-average climatic tolerances did deviate significantly from null expectations, indicating that species with higher or lower relative climatic tolerances were favoured under certain conditions.ConclusionsDespite strong water limitation of plant performance in dryland ecosystems, communities tracked variation in temperature much more closely, intimating strong responses to anticipated temperature increases. Furthermore, abundance distributions were biased toward species with higher or lower relative climatic tolerances under different climatic conditions, but predictably so, indicating the need for assembly models that include processes other than simple environmental filtering.

  7. Three-dimensional unsteady lifting surface theory in the subsonic range

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Kuessner, H. G.

    1985-01-01

    The methods of the unsteady lifting surface theory are surveyed. Linearized Euler's equations are simplified by means of a Galileo-Lorentz transformation and a Laplace transformation so that the time and the compressibility of the fluid are limited to two constants. The solutions to this simplified problem are represented as integrals with a differential nucleus; these results in tolerance conditions, for which any exact solution must suffice. It is shown that none of the existing three-dimensional lifting surface theories in subsonic range satisfy these conditions. An oscillating elliptic lifting surface which satisfies the tolerance conditions is calculated through the use of Lame's functions. Numerical examples are calculated for the borderline cases of infinitely stretched elliptic lifting surfaces and of circular lifting surfaces. Out of the harmonic solutions any such temporal changes of the down current are calculated through the use of an inverse Laplace transformation.

  8. Band Gap Tuning and Defect Tolerance of Atomically Thin Two-Dimensional Organic-Inorganic Halide Perovskites.

    PubMed

    Pandey, Mohnish; Jacobsen, Karsten W; Thygesen, Kristian S

    2016-11-03

    Organic-inorganic halide perovskites have proven highly successful for photovoltaics but suffer from low stability, which deteriorates their performance over time. Recent experiments have demonstrated that low dimensional phases of the hybrid perovskites may exhibit improved stability. Here we report first-principles calculations for isolated monolayers of the organometallic halide perovskites (C 4 H 9 NH 3 ) 2 MX 2 Y 2 , where M = Pb, Ge, Sn and X,Y = Cl, Br, I. The band gaps computed using the GLLB-SC functional are found to be in excellent agreement with experimental photoluminescence data for the already synthesized perovskites. Finally, we study the effect of different defects on the band structure. We find that the most common defects only introduce shallow or no states in the band gap, indicating that these atomically thin 2D perovskites are likely to be defect tolerant.

  9. Salt stress-induced changes in antioxidative defense system and proteome profiles of salt-tolerant and sensitive Frankia strains.

    PubMed

    Srivastava, Amrita; Singh, Anumeha; Singh, Satya S; Mishra, Arun K

    2017-04-16

    An appreciation of comparative microbial survival is most easily done while evaluating their adaptive strategies during stress. In the present experiment, antioxidative and whole cell proteome variations based on spectrophotometric analysis and SDS-PAGE and 2-dimensional gel electrophoresis have been analysed among salt-tolerant and salt-sensitive Frankia strains. This is the first report of proteomic basis underlying salt tolerance in these newly isolated Frankia strains from Hippophae salicifolia D. Don. Salt-tolerant strain HsIi10 shows higher increment in the contents of superoxide dismutase, catalase and ascorbate peroxidase as compared to salt-sensitive strain HsIi8. Differential 2-DGE profile has revealed differential profiles for salt-tolerant and salt-sensitive strains. Proteomic confirmation of salt tolerance in the strains with inbuilt efficiency of thriving in nitrogen-deficient locales is a definite advantage for these microbes. This would be equally beneficial for improvement of soil nitrogen status. Efficient protein regulation in HsIi10 suggests further exploration for its potential use as biofertilizer in saline soils.

  10. Accumulation of 19-kDa plasma membrane polypeptide during induction of freezing tolerance in wheat suspension-cultured cells by abscisic acid.

    PubMed

    Koike, M; Takezawa, D; Arakawa, K; Yoshida, S

    1997-06-01

    Suspension-cultured cells derived from immature embryos of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L. cv. Chihoku) were used in experiments designed to obtain clues to the mechanism of the ABA-induced development of freezing tolerance. Cultured cells treated with 50 microM ABA for 5 d at 23 degrees C acquired the maximum level of freezing tolerance (LT50; -21.6 degrees C). The increased freezing tolerance of ABA-treated cells was closely associated with the remarkable accumulation of 19-kDa polypeptides in the plasma membrane. The 19-kDa polypeptide components were isolated by preparative gel electrophoresis and were further separated into one major (AWPM-19) and other minor polypeptide components by Tricine-SDS-PAGE. N-terminal amino acid sequence of AWPM-19 was determined, and a cDNA clone encoding AWPM-19 was isolated by PCR from the library prepared from the ABA-treated cultured cells. The cDNA clone (WPM-1) encoded a 18.9 kDa hydrophobic polypeptide with four putative membrane spanning domains and with a high pI value (10.2). Expression of WPM-1 mRNA was dramatically induced by 50 microM ABA within a few hours. These results suggest that the AWPM-19 might be closely associated with the ABA-induced increase in freezing tolerance in wheat cultured cells.

  11. Dimensional nanometrology at the National Physical Laboratory

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yacoot, Andrew; Leach, Richard; Hughes, Ben; Giusca, Claudiu; Jones, Christopher; Wilson, Alan

    2008-10-01

    The growth in nanotechnology has led to an increased requirement for traceable dimensional measurements of nanometre-sized objects and micrometre-sized objects with nanometre tolerances. To meet this challenge NPL has developed both purpose built instrumentation and added metrology to commercially available equipment. This paper describes the development and use of a selection of these instruments that include: atomic force microscopy, x-ray interferometry, a low force balance, a micro coordinate measuring machine and an areal surface texture measuring instrument.

  12. Defect tolerance in resistor-logic demultiplexers for nanoelectronics.

    PubMed

    Kuekes, Philip J; Robinett, Warren; Williams, R Stanley

    2006-05-28

    Since defect rates are expected to be high in nanocircuitry, we analyse the performance of resistor-based demultiplexers in the presence of defects. The defects observed to occur in fabricated nanoscale crossbars are stuck-open, stuck-closed, stuck-short, broken-wire, and adjacent-wire-short defects. We analyse the distribution of voltages on the nanowire output lines of a resistor-logic demultiplexer, based on an arbitrary constant-weight code, when defects occur. These analyses show that resistor-logic demultiplexers can tolerate small numbers of stuck-closed, stuck-open, and broken-wire defects on individual nanowires, at the cost of some degradation in the circuit's worst-case voltage margin. For stuck-short and adjacent-wire-short defects, and for nanowires with too many defects of the other types, the demultiplexer can still achieve error-free performance, but with a smaller set of output lines. This design thus has two layers of defect tolerance: the coding layer improves the yield of usable output lines, and an avoidance layer guarantees that error-free performance is achieved.

  13. A Comparison of Four Indices for Combining Distance and Dose Differences

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

    Thomas, Simon J., E-mail: simon.thomas@addenbrookes.nhs.uk; Cowley, Ian R.

    2012-04-01

    Purpose: When one is comparing two dose distributions, a number of methods have been published to combine dose difference and distance to agreement into a single measure. Some have been defined as pass/fail indices and some as numeric indices. We show that the pass/fail indices can all be used to derive numeric indices, and we compare the results of using these indices to evaluate one-dimensional (1D) and three-dimensional (3D) dose distributions, with the aim of selecting the most appropriate index for use in different circumstances. Methods and Materials: The indices compared are the gamma index, the kappa index, the indexmore » in International Commission on Radiation Units and Measurements Report 83, and a box index. Comparisons are made for 1D and 3D distributions. The 1D distribution is chosen to have a variety of dose gradients. The 3D distribution is taken from a clinical treatment plan. The effect of offsetting distributions by known distances and doses is studied. Results: The International Commission on Radiation Units and Measurements Report 83 index causes large discontinuities unless the dose gradient cutoff is set to equal the ratio of the dose tolerance to the distance tolerance. If it is so set, it returns identical results to the kappa index. Where the gradient is very high or very low, all the indices studied in this article give similar results for the same tolerance values. For moderate gradients, they differ, with the box index being the least strict, followed by the gamma index, and with the kappa index being the most strict. Conclusions: If the clinical tolerances are much greater than the uncertainties of the measuring system, the kappa index should be used, with tolerance values determined by the clinical tolerances. In cases where the uncertainties of the measuring system dominate, the box index will be best able to determine errors in the delivery system.« less

  14. Light response, oxidative stress management and nucleic acid stability in closely related Linderniaceae species differing in desiccation tolerance.

    PubMed

    Dinakar, Challabathula; Bartels, Dorothea

    2012-08-01

    In the present study, three closely related Linderniaceae species which differ in their sensitivity to desiccation are compared in response to light and oxidative stress defence. Lindernia brevidens, a desiccation-tolerant plant, displayed intense purple pigmentation in leaves under long-day conditions in contrast to Craterostigma plantagineum (desiccation tolerant) and Lindernia subracemosa (desiccation sensitive). The intense pigmentation in leaves does not affect the desiccation tolerance behaviour but seems to be related to oxidative stress protection. Green leaves of short-day and purple leaves of long-day plants provided suitable material for comparing basic photosynthetic parameters. An increase in non-photochemical quenching in purple leaves appears to prevent photoinhibition. Treatment with methyl viologen decreased the photochemical activities in both long-day and short-day plants but long-day plants which accumulate anthocyanins maintained a higher non-photochemical quenching than short-day plants. No differences were seen in the expression of desiccation-induced proteins and proteins involved in carbohydrate metabolism in short-day and long-day grown plants, whereas differences were observed in the expression of transcripts encoding chloroplast-localised stress proteins and transcripts encoding antioxidant enzymes. While the expression of genes encoding antioxidant enzymes were either constitutive or up-regulated during desiccation in C. plantagineum, the expression was down-regulated in L. subracemosa. RNA expression analysis indicated degradation of mRNA during desiccation in L. subracemosa but not in desiccation tolerant species. These results indicate that a better oxidative stress management and mRNA stability are correlated with desiccation tolerance.

  15. A Database to Evaluate Acceleration (+Gz) Induced Loss of Consciousness (G-LOC) in the Human Centrifuge

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1993-06-20

    described based on a hydrostatic column model where the model is assumed to be non distensible and without reflexes. Figure 1 describes this model which...straining maneuvers ( muscular straining while exhaling against a partially closed or fully closed glottis) which increase 11 NAWCADWAR-93089-60 +Gz tolerance

  16. Closed loop engine control for regulating NOx emissions, using a two-dimensional fuel-air curve

    DOEpatents

    Bourn, Gary D.; Smith, Jack A.; Gingrich, Jess W.

    2007-01-30

    An engine control strategy that ensures that NOx emissions from the engine will be maintained at an acceptable level. The control strategy is based on a two-dimensional fuel-air curve, in which air manifold pressure (AMP) is a function of fuel header pressure and engine speed. The control strategy provides for closed loop NOx adjustment to a base AMP value derived from the fuel-air curve.

  17. Pediatric dosimetry for intrapleural lung injections of 32P chromic phosphate

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Konijnenberg, Mark W.; Olch, Arthur

    2010-10-01

    Intracavitary injections of 32P chromic phosphate are used in the therapy of pleuropulmonary blastoma and pulmonary sarcomas in children. The lung dose, however, has never been calculated despite the potential risk of lung toxicity from treatment. In this work the dosimetry has been calculated in target tissue and lung for pediatric phantoms. Pleural cavities were modeled in the Monte Carlo code MCNP within the pediatric MIRD phantoms. Both the depth-dose curves in the pleural lining and into the lung as well as 3D dose distributions were calculated for either homogeneous or inhomogeneous 32P activity distributions. Dose-volume histograms for the lung tissue and isodose graphs were generated. The results for the 2D depth-dose curve to the pleural lining and tumor around the pleural cavity correspond well with the point kernel model-based recommendations. With a 2 mm thick pleural lining, one-third of the lung parenchyma volume gets a dose more than 30 Gy (V30) for 340 MBq 32P in a 10 year old. This is close to lung tolerance. Younger children will receive a larger dose to the lung when the lung density remains equal to the adult value; the V30 relative lung volume for a 5 year old is 35% at an activity of 256 MBq and for a 1 year old 165 MBq yields a V30 of 43%. At higher densities of the lung tissue V30 stays below 32%. All activities yield a therapeutic dose of at least 225 Gy in the pleural lining. With a more normal pleural lining thickness (0.5 mm instead of 2 mm) the injected activities will have to be reduced by a factor 5 to obtain tolerable lung doses in pediatric patients. Previous dosimetry recommendations for the adult apply well down to lung surface areas of 400 cm2. Monte Carlo dosimetry quantitates the three-dimensional dose distribution, providing a better insight into the maximum tolerable activity for this therapy.

  18. Dimensionality reduction in epidemic spreading models

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Frasca, M.; Rizzo, A.; Gallo, L.; Fortuna, L.; Porfiri, M.

    2015-09-01

    Complex dynamical systems often exhibit collective dynamics that are well described by a reduced set of key variables in a low-dimensional space. Such a low-dimensional description offers a privileged perspective to understand the system behavior across temporal and spatial scales. In this work, we propose a data-driven approach to establish low-dimensional representations of large epidemic datasets by using a dimensionality reduction algorithm based on isometric features mapping (ISOMAP). We demonstrate our approach on synthetic data for epidemic spreading in a population of mobile individuals. We find that ISOMAP is successful in embedding high-dimensional data into a low-dimensional manifold, whose topological features are associated with the epidemic outbreak. Across a range of simulation parameters and model instances, we observe that epidemic outbreaks are embedded into a family of closed curves in a three-dimensional space, in which neighboring points pertain to instants that are close in time. The orientation of each curve is unique to a specific outbreak, and the coordinates correlate with the number of infected individuals. A low-dimensional description of epidemic spreading is expected to improve our understanding of the role of individual response on the outbreak dynamics, inform the selection of meaningful global observables, and, possibly, aid in the design of control and quarantine procedures.

  19. Decentralization, stabilization, and estimation of large-scale linear systems

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Siljak, D. D.; Vukcevic, M. B.

    1976-01-01

    In this short paper we consider three closely related aspects of large-scale systems: decentralization, stabilization, and estimation. A method is proposed to decompose a large linear system into a number of interconnected subsystems with decentralized (scalar) inputs or outputs. The procedure is preliminary to the hierarchic stabilization and estimation of linear systems and is performed on the subsystem level. A multilevel control scheme based upon the decomposition-aggregation method is developed for stabilization of input-decentralized linear systems Local linear feedback controllers are used to stabilize each decoupled subsystem, while global linear feedback controllers are utilized to minimize the coupling effect among the subsystems. Systems stabilized by the method have a tolerance to a wide class of nonlinearities in subsystem coupling and high reliability with respect to structural perturbations. The proposed output-decentralization and stabilization schemes can be used directly to construct asymptotic state estimators for large linear systems on the subsystem level. The problem of dimensionality is resolved by constructing a number of low-order estimators, thus avoiding a design of a single estimator for the overall system.

  20. [Computed tomography of the lungs. A step into the fourth dimension].

    PubMed

    Dinkel, J; Hintze, C; Rochet, N; Thieke, C; Biederer, J

    2009-08-01

    To discuss the techniques for four dimensional computed tomography of the lungs in tumour patients. The image acquisition in CT can be done using respiratory gating in two different ways: the helical or cine mode. In the helical mode, the couch moves continuously during image and respiratory signal acquisition. In the cine mode, the couch remains in the same position during at least one complete respiratory cycle and then moves to next position. The 4D images are either acquired prospectively or reconstructed retrospectively with dedicated algorithms in a freely selectable respiratory phase. The time information required for motion depiction in 4D imaging can be obtained with tolerable motion artefacts. Partial projection and stepladder-artifacts are occurring predominantly close to the diaphragm, where the displacement is most prominent. Due to the long exposure times, radiation exposure is significantly higher compared to a simple breathhold helical acquisition. Therefore, the use of 4D-CT is restricted to only specific indications (i.e. radiotherapy planning). 4D-CT of the lung allows evaluating the respiration-correlated displacement of lungs and tumours in space for radiotherapy planning.

  1. Multifractal Approach to the Analysis of Crime Dynamics: Results for Burglary in San Francisco

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Melgarejo, Miguel; Obregon, Nelson

    This paper provides evidence of fractal, multifractal and chaotic behaviors in urban crime by computing key statistical attributes over a long data register of criminal activity. Fractal and multifractal analyses based on power spectrum, Hurst exponent computation, hierarchical power law detection and multifractal spectrum are considered ways to characterize and quantify the footprint of complexity of criminal activity. Moreover, observed chaos analysis is considered a second step to pinpoint the nature of the underlying crime dynamics. This approach is carried out on a long database of burglary activity reported by 10 police districts of San Francisco city. In general, interarrival time processes of criminal activity in San Francisco exhibit fractal and multifractal patterns. The behavior of some of these processes is close to 1/f noise. Therefore, a characterization as deterministic, high-dimensional, chaotic phenomena is viable. Thus, the nature of crime dynamics can be studied from geometric and chaotic perspectives. Our findings support that crime dynamics may be understood from complex systems theories like self-organized criticality or highly optimized tolerance.

  2. Direct Visualization of Conformation and Dense Packing of DNA-Based Soft Colloids

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Jing; Lettinga, Paul M.; Dhont, Jan K. G.; Stiakakis, Emmanuel

    2014-12-01

    Soft colloids—such as polymer-coated particles, star polymers, block-copolymer micelles, microgels—constitute a broad class of materials where microscopic properties such as deformability and penetrability of the particle play a key role in tailoring their macroscopic properties which is of interest in many technological areas. The ability to access these microscopic properties is not yet demonstrated despite its great importance. Here we introduce novel DNA-coated colloids with star-shaped architecture that allows accessing the above local structural information by directly visualizing their intramolecular monomer density profile and arm's free-end locations with confocal fluorescent microscopy. Compression experiments on a two-dimensional hexagonal lattice formed by these macromolecular assemblies reveal an exceptional resistance to mutual interpenetration of their charged corona at pressures approaching the MPa range. Furthermore, we find that this lattice, in a close packing configuration, is surprisingly tolerant to particle size variation. We anticipate that these stimuli-responsive materials could aid to get deeper insight in a wide range of problems in soft matter, including the study and design of biomimetic lubricated surfaces.

  3. An efficient closed-form solution for acoustic emission source location in three-dimensional structures

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

    Li, Xibing; Dong, Longjun, E-mail: csudlj@163.com; Australian Centre for Geomechanics, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, 6009

    This paper presents an efficient closed-form solution (ECS) for acoustic emission(AE) source location in three-dimensional structures using time difference of arrival (TDOA) measurements from N receivers, N ≥ 6. The nonlinear location equations of TDOA are simplified to linear equations. The unique analytical solution of AE sources for unknown velocity system is obtained by solving the linear equations. The proposed ECS method successfully solved the problems of location errors resulting from measured deviations of velocity as well as the existence and multiplicity of solutions induced by calculations of square roots in existed close-form methods.

  4. Seasonal differences in freezing tolerance of yellow-cedar and western hemlock trees at a site affected by yellow-cedar decline

    Treesearch

    Paul G. Schaberg; Paul E. Hennon; Amore, David V. D; Gary J. Hawley; Catherine H. Borer; Catherine H. Borer

    2005-01-01

    To assess whether inadequate cold hardiness could be a contributor to yellow-cedar (Chamaecyparis nootkatensis (D. Don) Spach) decline, we measured the freezing tolerance of foliage from yellow-cedar trees in closed-canopy (nondeclining) and open-canopy (declining at elevations below 130 m) stands at three sites along an elevational gradient in the heart of the decline...

  5. Comparing the Tolerability of a Novel Wound Closure Device Using a Porcine Wound Model

    PubMed Central

    Townsend, Katy L.; Akeroyd, Jen; Russell, Duncan S.; Kruzic, Jamie J.; Robertson, Bria L.; Lear, William

    2018-01-01

    Objective: To compare the tolerability and mechanical tensile strength of acute skin wounds closed with nylon suture plus a novel suture bridge device (SBD) with acute skin wounds closed with nylon suture in a porcine model. Approach: Four Yucatan pigs each received 12 4.5 cm full-thickness incisions that were closed with 1 of 4 options: Suture bridge with nylon, suture bridge with nylon and subdermal polyglactin, nylon simple interrupted, and nylon simple interrupted with subdermal polyglactin. Epithelial reaction, inflammation, and scarring were examined histologically at days 10 and 42. Wound strength was examined mechanically at days 10 and 42 on ex vivo wounds from euthanized pigs. Results: Histopathology in the suture entry/exit planes showed greater dermal inflammation with a simple interrupted nylon suture retained for 42 days compared with the SBD retained for 42 days (p < 0.03). While tensile wound strength in the device and suture groups were similar at day 10, wounds closed with the devices were nearly 8 times stronger at day 42 compared with day 10 (p < 0.001). Innovation: A novel SBD optimized for cutaneous wound closure that protects the skin surface from suture strands, forms a protective bridge over the healing wound edges, and knotlessly clamps sutures. Conclusion: This study suggests that the use of a SBD increases the tolerability of nylon sutures in porcine acute skin wound closures allowing for prolonged mechanical support of the wound. For slow healing wounds, this may prevent skin wound disruption, such as edge necrosis and dehiscence. PMID:29892494

  6. Holder For Shot Peening

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Coker, Bill E.

    1988-01-01

    Fixture delimits peened area precisely while boosting productivity. New fixture ensures small tolerances essential for turbine blades. Opens and closes quickly so finished part removed and new part inserted.

  7. Dissecting the genetic architecture of frost tolerance in Central European winter wheat.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Yusheng; Gowda, Manje; Würschum, Tobias; Longin, C Friedrich H; Korzun, Viktor; Kollers, Sonja; Schachschneider, Ralf; Zeng, Jian; Fernando, Rohan; Dubcovsky, Jorge; Reif, Jochen C

    2013-11-01

    Abiotic stress tolerance in plants is pivotal to increase yield stability, but its genetic basis is still poorly understood. To gain insight into the genetic architecture of frost tolerance, this work evaluated a large mapping population of 1739 wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) lines and hybrids adapted to Central Europe in field trials in Germany and fingerprinted the lines with a 9000 single-nucleotide polymorphism array. Additive effects prevailed over dominance effects. A two-dimensional genome scan revealed the presence of epistatic effects. Genome-wide association mapping in combination with a robust cross-validation strategy identified one frost tolerance locus with a major effect located on chromosome 5B. This locus was not in linkage disequilibrium with the known frost loci Fr-B1 and Fr-B2. The use of the detected diagnostic markers on chromosome 5B, however, does not allow prediction of frost tolerance with high accuracy. Application of genome-wide selection approaches that take into account also loci with small effect sizes considerably improved prediction of the genetic variation of frost tolerance in wheat. The developed prediction model is valuable for improving frost tolerance because this trait displays a wide variation in occurrence across years and is therefore a difficult target for conventional phenotypic selection.

  8. Quasi-critical fluctuations: a novel state of matter?

    PubMed

    Bertel, Erminald

    2013-05-01

    Quasi-critical fluctuations occur close to critical points or close to continuous phase transitions. In three-dimensional systems, precision tuning is required to access the fluctuation regime. Lowering the dimensionality enhances the parameter space for quasi-critical fluctuations considerably. This enables one to make use of novel properties emerging in fluctuating systems, such as giant susceptibilities, Casimir forces or novel quasi-particle interactions. Examples are discussed ranging from simple metal-adsorbate systems to unconventional superconductivity in iron-based superconductors.

  9. Hamiltonian BFV-BRST theory of closed quantum cosmological models

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kamenshchik, A. Yu.; Lyakhovich, S. L.

    1997-02-01

    We introduce and study a new discrete basis of gravity constraints by making use of harmonic expansion for closed cosmological models. The full set of constraints is split into area-preserving spatial diffeomorphisms, forming closed subalgebra, and Virasoro-like generators. Operational Hamiltonian BFV-BRST quantization is performed in the framework of perturbative expansion in the dimensionless parameter, which is a positive power of the ratio of Planckian volume to the volume of the Universe. For the (N + 1)-dimensional generalization of stationary closed Bianchi-I cosmology the nilpotency condition for the BRST operator is examined in the first quantum approximation. It turns out that a certain relationship between the dimensionality of the space and the spectrum of matter fields emerges from the requirement of quantum consistency of the model.

  10. Hamiltonian BFV-BRST theory of closed quantum cosmological models

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kamenshchik, A. Yu.; Lyakhovich, S. L.

    1997-08-01

    We introduce and study a new discrete basis of gravity constraints by making use of the harmonic expansion for closed cosmological models. The full set of constraints is split into area-preserving spatial diffeomorphisms, forming a closed subalgebra, and Virasoro-like generators. The operatorial Hamiltonian BFV-BRST quantization is performed in the framework of a perturbative expansion in the dimensionless parameter which is a positive power of the ratio of the Planck volume to the volume of the Universe. For the (N + 1) - dimensional generalization of a stationary closed Bianchi-I cosmology the nilpotency condition for the BRST operator is examined in the first quantum approximation. It turns out that a relationship between the dimensionality of the space and the spectrum of matter fields emerges from the requirement of quantum consistency of the model.

  11. Development of acute tolerance to the EEG effect of propofol in rats.

    PubMed

    Ihmsen, H; Schywalsky, M; Tzabazis, A; Schwilden, H

    2005-09-01

    A previous study in rats with propofol suggested the development of acute tolerance to the EEG effect. The aim of this study was to evaluate acute tolerance by means of EEG-controlled closed-loop anaesthesia as this approach allows precise determination of drug requirement to maintain a defined drug effect. Ten male Sprague-Dawley rats [weight 402 (40) g, mean (SD)] were included in the study. The EEG was recorded with occipito-occipital needle electrodes and a modified median frequency (mMEF) of the EEG power spectrum was used as a pharmacodynamic control parameter. The propofol infusion rate was controlled by a model-based adaptive algorithm to maintain a set point of mMEF=3 (0.5) Hz for 90 min. The performance of the closed-loop system was characterized by the prediction error PE=(mMEF-set point)/set point. Plasma propofol concentrations were determined from arterial samples by HPLC. The chosen set point was successfully maintained in all rats. The median (SE) and absolute median values of PE were -5.0 (0.3) and 11.3 (0.2)% respectively. Propofol concentration increased significantly from 2.9 (2.2) microg ml(-1) at the beginning to 5.8 (3.8) microg ml(-1) at 90 min [mean (SD), P<0.05]. The cumulative dose increased linearly, with a mean infusion rate of 0.60 (0.16) mg kg(-1) min(-1). The minimum value of the mean arterial pressure during closed-loop administration of propofol was 130 (24) mm Hg, compared with a baseline value of 141 (12) mm Hg. The increase in propofol concentration at constant EEG effect indicates development of acute tolerance to the hypnotic effect of propofol.

  12. Aeroacoustic theory for noncompact wing-gust interaction

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Martinez, R.; Widnall, S. E.

    1981-01-01

    Three aeroacoustic models for noncompact wing-gust interaction were developed for subsonic flow. The first is that for a two dimensional (infinite span) wing passing through an oblique gust. The unsteady pressure field was obtained by the Wiener-Hopf technique; the airfoil loading and the associated acoustic field were calculated, respectively, by allowing the field point down on the airfoil surface, or by letting it go to infinity. The second model is a simple spanwise superposition of two dimensional solutions to account for three dimensional acoustic effects of wing rotation (for a helicopter blade, or some other rotating planform) and of finiteness of wing span. A three dimensional theory for a single gust was applied to calculate the acoustic signature in closed form due to blade vortex interaction in helicopters. The third model is that of a quarter infinite plate with side edge through a gust at high subsonic speed. An approximate solution for the three dimensional loading and the associated three dimensional acoustic field in closed form was obtained. The results reflected the acoustic effect of satisfying the correct loading condition at the side edge.

  13. Recent progress in drought and salt tolerance studies in Brassica crops

    PubMed Central

    Zhang, Xuekun; Lu, Guangyuan; Long, Weihua; Zou, Xiling; Li, Feng; Nishio, Takeshi

    2014-01-01

    Water deficit imposed by either drought or salinity brings about severe growth retardation and yield loss of crops. Since Brassica crops are important contributors to total oilseed production, it is urgently needed to develop tolerant cultivars to ensure yields under such adverse conditions. There are various physiochemical mechanisms for dealing with drought and salinity in plants at different developmental stages. Accordingly, different indicators of tolerance to drought or salinity at the germination, seedling, flowering and mature stages have been developed and used for germplasm screening and selection in breeding practices. Classical genetic and modern genomic approaches coupled with precise phenotyping have boosted the unravelling of genes and metabolic pathways conferring drought or salt tolerance in crops. QTL mapping of drought and salt tolerance has provided several dozen target QTLs in Brassica and the closely related Arabidopsis. Many drought- or salt-tolerant genes have also been isolated, some of which have been confirmed to have great potential for genetic improvement of plant tolerance. It has been suggested that molecular breeding approaches, such as marker-assisted selection and gene transformation, that will enhance oil product security under a changing climate be integrated in the development of drought- and salt-tolerant Brassica crops. PMID:24987291

  14. Adjoint-Based, Three-Dimensional Error Prediction and Grid Adaptation

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Park, Michael A.

    2002-01-01

    Engineering computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis and design applications focus on output functions (e.g., lift, drag). Errors in these output functions are generally unknown and conservatively accurate solutions may be computed. Computable error estimates can offer the possibility to minimize computational work for a prescribed error tolerance. Such an estimate can be computed by solving the flow equations and the linear adjoint problem for the functional of interest. The computational mesh can be modified to minimize the uncertainty of a computed error estimate. This robust mesh-adaptation procedure automatically terminates when the simulation is within a user specified error tolerance. This procedure for estimating and adapting to error in a functional is demonstrated for three-dimensional Euler problems. An adaptive mesh procedure that links to a Computer Aided Design (CAD) surface representation is demonstrated for wing, wing-body, and extruded high lift airfoil configurations. The error estimation and adaptation procedure yielded corrected functions that are as accurate as functions calculated on uniformly refined grids with ten times as many grid points.

  15. The evolution of environmental tolerance and range size: a comparison of geographically restricted and widespread Mimulus.

    PubMed

    Sheth, Seema N; Angert, Amy L

    2014-10-01

    The geographic ranges of closely related species can vary dramatically, yet we do not fully grasp the mechanisms underlying such variation. The niche breadth hypothesis posits that species that have evolved broad environmental tolerances can achieve larger geographic ranges than species with narrow environmental tolerances. In turn, plasticity and genetic variation in ecologically important traits and adaptation to environmentally variable areas can facilitate the evolution of broad environmental tolerance. We used five pairs of western North American monkeyflowers to experimentally test these ideas by quantifying performance across eight temperature regimes. In four species pairs, species with broader thermal tolerances had larger geographic ranges, supporting the niche breadth hypothesis. As predicted, species with broader thermal tolerances also had more within-population genetic variation in thermal reaction norms and experienced greater thermal variation across their geographic ranges than species with narrow thermal tolerances. Species with narrow thermal tolerance may be particularly vulnerable to changing climatic conditions due to lack of plasticity and insufficient genetic variation to respond to novel selection pressures. Conversely, species experiencing high variation in temperature across their ranges may be buffered against extinction due to climatic changes because they have evolved tolerance to a broad range of temperatures. © 2014 The Author(s). Evolution © 2014 The Society for the Study of Evolution.

  16. Liver microRNA profile of induced allograft tolerance

    PubMed Central

    Vitalone, Matthew James; Wai, Liang; Fujiki, Masato; Lau, Audrey H.; Littau, Erik; Esquivel, Carlos; Martinez, Olivia M.; Krams, Sheri M.

    2016-01-01

    Introduction Although the liver is less immunogenic than other solid organs, most liver transplant recipients receive lifelong immunosuppression. In both experimental models and clinical transplantation, total Lymphoid Irradiation (TLI) has been shown to induce allograft tolerance. Our goal was to identify the microRNAs (miRNAs) expressed in tolerant liver allograft recipients in an experimental model of TLI-induced tolerance. Methods To identify the miRNAs associated with TLI-induced tolerance we examined syngeneic recipients (Lewis→Lewis) and allogeneic recipients (DA→Lewis) of orthotropic liver transplants that received post-transplant TLI, allogeneic recipients that were not treated post-transplantation and experienced acute rejection, and native DA livers. QPCR miRNA array cards were used to profile liver grafts. Results We identified 12 miRNAs that were specifically and significantly increased during acute rejection. In early tolerance, 33 miRNAs were altered compared to syngeneic livers, with 80% of the miRNAs increased. In established tolerance 42 miRNAs were altered. In addition, miR-142-5p and miR-181a demonstrated increased expression in tolerant livers (both early and established tolerance) as compared to syngeneic livers. A principal component analysis of all miRNAs assayed, demonstrated a profile in established tolerance that was closely related to that seen in syngeneic livers. Conclusions The miRNA profile of established tolerant allografts is very similar to syngeneic grafts suggesting tolerance may be a return to an immunological state of quiescence. PMID:26950716

  17. One-dimensional cuts through multidimensional potential-energy surfaces by tunable x rays

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Eckert, Sebastian; da Cruz, Vinícius Vaz; Gel'mukhanov, Faris; Ertan, Emelie; Ignatova, Nina; Polyutov, Sergey; Couto, Rafael C.; Fondell, Mattis; Dantz, Marcus; Kennedy, Brian; Schmitt, Thorsten; Pietzsch, Annette; Odelius, Michael; Föhlisch, Alexander

    2018-05-01

    The concept of the potential-energy surface (PES) and directional reaction coordinates is the backbone of our description of chemical reaction mechanisms. Although the eigenenergies of the nuclear Hamiltonian uniquely link a PES to its spectrum, this information is in general experimentally inaccessible in large polyatomic systems. This is due to (near) degenerate rovibrational levels across the parameter space of all degrees of freedom, which effectively forms a pseudospectrum given by the centers of gravity of groups of close-lying vibrational levels. We show here that resonant inelastic x-ray scattering (RIXS) constitutes an ideal probe for revealing one-dimensional cuts through the ground-state PES of molecular systems, even far away from the equilibrium geometry, where the independent-mode picture is broken. We strictly link the center of gravity of close-lying vibrational peaks in RIXS to a pseudospectrum which is shown to coincide with the eigenvalues of an effective one-dimensional Hamiltonian along the propagation coordinate of the core-excited wave packet. This concept, combined with directional and site selectivity of the core-excited states, allows us to experimentally extract cuts through the ground-state PES along three complementary directions for the showcase H2O molecule.

  18. Numerical simulation of premixed flame propagation in a closed tube

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kuzuu, Kazuto; Ishii, Katsuya; Kuwahara, Kunio

    1996-08-01

    Premixed flame propagation of methane-air mixture in a closed tube is estimated through a direct numerical simulation of the three-dimensional unsteady Navier-Stokes equations coupled with chemical reaction. In order to deal with a combusting flow, an extended version of the MAC method, which can be applied to a compressible flow with strong density variation, is employed as a numerical method. The chemical reaction is assumed to be an irreversible single step reaction between methane and oxygen. The chemical species are CH 4, O 2, N 2, CO 2, and H 2O. In this simulation, we reproduce a formation of a tulip flame in a closed tube during the flame propagation. Furthermore we estimate not only a two-dimensional shape but also a three-dimensional structure of the flame and flame-induced vortices, which cannot be observed in the experiments. The agreement between the calculated results and the experimental data is satisfactory, and we compare the phenomenon near the side wall with the one in the corner of the tube.

  19. Dimensional stability of curved panels with cocured stiffeners and cobonded frames

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Mabson, G. E.; Flynn, B. W.; Swanson, G. D.; Lundquist, R. C.; Rupp, P. L.

    1993-01-01

    Closed form and finite element analyses are presented for axial direction and transverse direction dimensional stability of skin/stringer panels. Several sensitivity studies are presented to illustrate the influence of various design parameters on the dimensional stability of these panels. Panel geometry, material properties (stiffness and coefficient of thermal expansion), restraint conditions and local details, such as resin fillets, all combine to influence dimensional stability, residual and assembly forces.

  20. Approximation theory for LQG (Linear-Quadratic-Gaussian) optimal control of flexible structures

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Gibson, J. S.; Adamian, A.

    1988-01-01

    An approximation theory is presented for the LQG (Linear-Quadratic-Gaussian) optimal control problem for flexible structures whose distributed models have bounded input and output operators. The main purpose of the theory is to guide the design of finite dimensional compensators that approximate closely the optimal compensator. The optimal LQG problem separates into an optimal linear-quadratic regulator problem and an optimal state estimation problem. The solution of the former problem lies in the solution to an infinite dimensional Riccati operator equation. The approximation scheme approximates the infinite dimensional LQG problem with a sequence of finite dimensional LQG problems defined for a sequence of finite dimensional, usually finite element or modal, approximations of the distributed model of the structure. Two Riccati matrix equations determine the solution to each approximating problem. The finite dimensional equations for numerical approximation are developed, including formulas for converting matrix control and estimator gains to their functional representation to allow comparison of gains based on different orders of approximation. Convergence of the approximating control and estimator gains and of the corresponding finite dimensional compensators is studied. Also, convergence and stability of the closed-loop systems produced with the finite dimensional compensators are discussed. The convergence theory is based on the convergence of the solutions of the finite dimensional Riccati equations to the solutions of the infinite dimensional Riccati equations. A numerical example with a flexible beam, a rotating rigid body, and a lumped mass is given.

  1. Comparative 2D-DIGE analysis of salinity responsive microsomal proteins from leaves of salt-sensitive Arabidopsis thaliana and salt-tolerant Thellungiella salsuginea.

    PubMed

    Vera-Estrella, Rosario; Barkla, Bronwyn J; Pantoja, Omar

    2014-12-05

    Halophytes have evolved unique molecular strategies to overcome high soil salinity but we still know very little about the main mechanisms that these plants use to complete their lifecycle under salinity stress. One useful approach to further our understanding in this area is to directly compare the response to salinity of two closely related species which show diverse levels of salt tolerance. Here we present a comparative proteomic study using DIGE of leaf microsomal proteins to identify salt-responsive membrane associated proteins in Arabidopsis thaliana (a glycophyte) and Thellungiella salsuginea (a halophyte). While a small number of distinct protein abundance changes were observed upon salt stress in both species, the most notable differences were observed between species and specifically, in untreated plants with a total of 36 proteins displaying significant abundance changes. Gene ontology (GO) term enrichment analysis showed that the majority of these proteins were distributed into two functional categories; transport (31%) and carbohydrate metabolism (17%). Results identify several novel salt responsive proteins in this system and support the theory that T. salsuginea shows a high degree of salt-tolerance because molecular mechanisms are primed to deal with the stress. This intrinsic ability to anticipate salinity stress distinguishes it from the glycophyte A. thaliana. There is significant interest in understanding the molecular mechanisms that plants use to tolerate salinity as soil salinization is becoming an increasing concern for agriculture with high soil Na(+) levels leading to reduced yields and economic loss. Much of our knowledge on the molecular mechanisms employed by plants to combat salinity stress has come from work on salt-sensitive plants, but studies on naturally occurring highly salt-resistant plants, halophytes, and direct comparisons between closely related glycophytes and halophytes, could help to further our understanding of salinity tolerance mechanisms. In this study, employing two closely related species which differ markedly in their salt-tolerance, we carried out a quantitative proteomic approach using 2D-DIGE to identify salt-responsive proteins and compare and contrast the differences between the two plant species. Our work complements a previous study using iTRAQ technology (34) and highlights the benefits of using alternative technologies and approaches to gain a broader representation of the salt-responsive proteome in these species. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  2. How the structure of the large subunit controls function in an oxygen-tolerant [NiFe]-hydrogenase

    PubMed Central

    Bowman, Lisa; Flanagan, Lindsey; Fyfe, Paul K.; Parkin, Alison; Hunter, William N.; Sargent, Frank

    2014-01-01

    Salmonella enterica is an opportunistic pathogen that produces a [NiFe]-hydrogenase under aerobic conditions. In the present study, genetic engineering approaches were used to facilitate isolation of this enzyme, termed Hyd-5. The crystal structure was determined to a resolution of 3.2 Å and the hydro-genase was observed to comprise associated large and small subunits. The structure indicated that His229 from the large subunit was close to the proximal [4Fe–3S] cluster in the small subunit. In addition, His229 was observed to lie close to a buried glutamic acid (Glu73), which is conserved in oxygen-tolerant hydrogenases. His229 and Glu73 of the Hyd-5 large subunit were found to be important in both hydrogen oxidation activity and the oxygen-tolerance mechanism. Substitution of His229 or Glu73 with alanine led to a loss in the ability of Hyd-5 to oxidize hydrogen in air. Furthermore, the H229A variant was found to have lost the overpotential requirement for activity that is always observed with oxygen-tolerant [NiFe]-hydrogenases. It is possible that His229 has a role in stabilizing the super-oxidized form of the proximal cluster in the presence of oxygen, and it is proposed that Glu73could play a supporting role in fine-tuning the chemistry of His229 to enable this function. PMID:24428762

  3. Laser range profile of cones

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhou, Wenzhen; Gong, Yanjun; Wang, Mingjun; Gong, Lei

    2016-10-01

    technology. Laser one-dimensional range profile can reflect the characteristics of the target shape and surface material. These techniques were motivated by applications of laser radar to target discrimination in ballistic missile defense. The radar equation of pulse laser about cone is given in this paper. This paper demonstrates the analytical model of laser one-dimensional range profile of cone based on the radar equation of the pulse laser. Simulations results of laser one-dimensional range profiles of some cones are given. Laser one-dimensional range profiles of cone, whose surface material with diffuse lambertian reflectance, is given in this paper. Laser one-dimensional range profiles of cone, whose surface mater with diffuse materials whose retroreflectance can be modeled closely with an exponential term that decays with increasing incidence angles, is given in this paper. Laser one-dimensional range profiles of different pulse width of cone is given in this paper. The influences of surface material, pulse width, attitude on the one-dimensional range are analyzed. The laser two-dimensional range profile is two-dimensional scattering imaging of pulse laser of target. The two-dimensional range profile of roughness target can provide range resolved information. An analytical model of two-dimensional laser range profile of cone is proposed. The simulations of two-dimensional laser range profiles of some cones are given. Laser two-dimensional range profiles of cone, whose surface mater with diffuse lambertian reflectance, is given in this paper. Laser two-dimensional range profiles of cone, whose surface mater with diffuse materials whose retroreflectance can be modeled closely with an exponential term that decays with increasing incidence angles, is given in this paper. The influence of pulse width, surface material on laser two-dimensional range profile is analyzed. Laser one-dimensional range profile and laser two-dimensional range profile are called as laser range profile (LRP).

  4. Method and apparatus for imaging through 3-dimensional tracking of protons

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Ryan, James M. (Inventor); Macri, John R. (Inventor); McConnell, Mark L. (Inventor)

    2001-01-01

    A method and apparatus for creating density images of an object through the 3-dimensional tracking of protons that have passed through the object are provided. More specifically, the 3-dimensional tracking of the protons is accomplished by gathering and analyzing images of the ionization tracks of the protons in a closely packed stack of scintillating fibers.

  5. Remodeling of chloroplast proteome under salinity affects salt tolerance of Festuca arundinacea.

    PubMed

    Pawłowicz, Izabela; Waśkiewicz, Agnieszka; Perlikowski, Dawid; Rapacz, Marcin; Ratajczak, Dominika; Kosmala, Arkadiusz

    2018-06-07

    Acclimation of photosynthetic apparatus to variable environmental conditions is an important component of tolerance to dehydration stresses, including salinity. The present study deals with the research on alterations in chloroplast proteome of the forage grasses. Based on chlorophyll fluorescence parameters, two genotypes of a model grass species-Festuca arundinacea with distinct levels of salinity tolerance: low salt tolerant (LST) and high salt tolerant (HST), were selected. Next, two-dimensional electrophoresis and mass spectrometry were applied under both control and salt stress conditions to identify proteins accumulated differentially between these two genotypes. The physiological analysis revealed that under NaCl treatment the studied plants differed in photosystem II activity, water content, and ion accumulation. The differentially accumulated proteins included ATPase B, ATP synthase, ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase large and small subunits, cytochrome b6-f complex iron-sulfur subunit, oxygen-evolving enhancer proteins (OEE), OEE1 and OEE2, plastidic fructose-bisphosphate aldolase (pFBA), and lipocalin. A higher level of lipocalin, potentially involved in prevention of lipid peroxidation under stress, was also observed in the HST genotype. Our physiological and proteomic results performed for the first time on the species of forage grasses clearly showed that chloroplast metabolism adjustment could be a crucial factor in developing salinity tolerance.

  6. Hardware Evolution of Control Electronics

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Gwaltney, David; Steincamp, Jim; Corder, Eric; King, Ken; Ferguson, M. I.; Dutton, Ken

    2003-01-01

    The evolution of closed-loop motor speed controllers implemented on the JPL FPTA2 is presented. The response of evolved controller to sinusoidal commands, controller reconfiguration for fault tolerance,and hardware evolution are described.

  7. Fixed-Abrasive Grinding of Thin-Film Recording Heads Final Report CRADA No. TC-0498-93

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

    Blaedel, K. L.; Newman, C.

    The goals of this project were (1) to significantly reduce the cost of manufacturing thin-film recording heads for magnetic storage media and (2) to meet the stringent dimensional tolerances required for heads in the next generation high-density disc drives.

  8. A Mindfulness Experiential Small Group to Help Students Tolerate Ambiguity

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bohecker, Lynn; Vereen, Linwood G.; Wells, Pamela C.; Wathen, Cristen C.

    2016-01-01

    This study explored the lived experiences of 20 counselors-in-training (CITs) in a mindfulness experiential small group. Using grounded theory, the authors described a 5-dimensional model for navigating ambiguity. Findings suggest mindfulness training provides CITs self-reflection skills and a greater ability to manage cognitive complexity.

  9. Dynamical properties and transport coefficients of one-dimensional Lennard-Jones fluids: A molecular dynamics study

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bazhenov, Alexiev M.; Heyes, David M.

    1990-01-01

    The thermodynamics, structure, and transport coefficients, as defined by the Green-Kubo integrals, of the one-dimensional Lennard-Jones fluid are evaluated for a wide range of state points by molecular dynamics computer simulation. These calculations are performed for the first time for thermal conductivity and the viscosity. We observe a transition from hard-rod behavior at low number density to harmonic-spring fluid behavior in the close-packed limit. The self-diffusion coefficient decays with increasing density to a finite limiting value. The thermal conductivity increases with density, tending to ∞ in the close-packed limit. The viscosity in contrast maximizes at intermediate density, tending to zero in the zero density and close-packed limits.

  10. Three-dimensional features on oscillating microbubbles streaming flows

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rossi, Massimiliano; Marin, Alvaro G.; Wang, Cheng; Hilgenfeldt, Sascha; Kähler, Christian J.

    2013-11-01

    Ultrasound-driven oscillating micro-bubbles have been used as active actuators in microfluidic devices to perform manifold tasks such as mixing, sorting and manipulation of microparticles. A common configuration consists in side-bubbles, created by trapping air pockets in blind channels perpendicular to the main channel direction. This configuration results in bubbles with a semi-cylindrical shape that creates a streaming flow generally considered quasi two-dimensional. However, recent experiments performed with three-dimensional velocimetry methods have shown how microparticles can present significant three-dimensional trajectories, especially in regions close to the bubble interface. Several reasons will be discussed such as boundary effects of the bottom/top wall, deformation of the bubble interface leading to more complex vibrational modes, or bubble-particle interactions. In the present investigation, precise measurements of particle trajectories close to the bubble interface will be performed by means of 3D Astigmatic Particle Tracking Velocimetry. The results will allow us to characterize quantitatively the three-dimensional features of the streaming flow and to estimate its implications in practical applications as particle trapping, sorting or mixing.

  11. Tolerancing a lens for LED uniform illumination

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ryu, Jieun; Sasian, Jose

    2017-08-01

    A method to evaluate tolerance sensitivities for lenses used to produce uniform illumination is presented. Closed form surfaces are used to define optical surfaces and relative illumination is calculated from light etendue considerations.

  12. Perpetration of Adolescent Dating Relationship Abuse: The Role of Conditional Tolerance for Violence and Friendship Factors.

    PubMed

    Mumford, Elizabeth A; Taylor, Bruce G; Giordano, Peggy C

    2017-02-01

    Research has pointed to the salience of friendships in predicting abuse in adolescent dating relationships. The current study investigates the perpetration of physical and sexual dating abuse as predicted by individual conditional tolerance for dating abuse within the context of friendship behaviors and group characteristics. Using two waves of the National Survey of Teen Relationships and Intimate Violence (STRiV; N = 511 daters aged 12-18 years), we investigated the effects of baseline individual tolerance for hitting dating partners and friendship factors on perpetration of physical and sexual adolescent dating abuse (ADA) approximately 1 year later. Conditional tolerance for hitting boyfriends was associated with ADA perpetration in the absence of friendship characteristics. Daters who reported recent discussion of a problem with friends and female daters who named all-girl friendship groups were more likely to report ADA perpetration. Close friendships are an avenue for preventing ADA perpetration. Furthermore, ADA perpetration may be reduced by targeting conditional tolerance for violence particularly against male partners within female friendship groups.

  13. Latitudinal variation of freeze tolerance in intertidal marine snails of the genus Melampus (Gastropoda: Ellobiidae).

    PubMed

    Dennis, A B; Loomis, S H; Hellberg, M E

    2014-01-01

    Abstract Low temperatures limit the poleward distribution of many species such that the expansion of geographic range can only be accomplished via evolutionary innovation. We have tested for physiological differences among closely related species to determine whether their poleward latitudinal ranges are limited by tolerance to cold. We measured lower temperature tolerance (LT50) among a group of intertidal pulmonate snails from six congeneric species and nine locales. Differences in tolerance are placed in the context of a molecular phylogeny based on one mitochondrial (cytochrome oxidase subunit I) and two nuclear (histone 3 and a mitochondrial phosphate carrier protein) markers. Temperate species from two separate lineages had significantly lower measures of LT50 than related tropical species. Range differences within the temperate zone, however, were not explained by LT50. These results show that multiple adaptations to cold and freezing may have enabled range expansions out of the tropics in Melampus. However, northern range limits within temperate species are not governed by cold tolerance alone.

  14. Molecular markers associated with aluminium tolerance in Sorghum bicolor.

    PubMed

    Too, Emily Jepkosgei; Onkware, Augustino Osoro; Were, Beatrice Ang'iyo; Gudu, Samuel; Carlsson, Anders; Geleta, Mulatu

    2018-01-01

    Sorghum ( Sorghum bicolor , L. Moench) production in many agro-ecologies is constrained by a variety of stresses, including high levels of aluminium (Al) commonly found in acid soils. Therefore, for such soils, growing Al tolerant cultivars is imperative for high productivity. In this study, molecular markers associated with Al tolerance were identified using a mapping population developed by crossing two contrasting genotypes for this trait. Four SSR ( Xtxp34 , Sb5_236 , Sb6_34 , and Sb6_342 ), one STS ( CTG29_3b ) and three ISSR ( 811_1400 , 835_200 and 884_200 ) markers produced alleles that showed significant association with Al tolerance. CTG29_3b, 811_1400 , Xtxp34 and Sb5_ 236 are located on chromosome 3 with the first two markers located close to Alt SB , a locus that underlie the Al tolerance gene ( SbMATE ) implying that their association with Al tolerance is due to their linkage to this gene. Although CTG29_3b and 811_ 1400 are located closer to Alt SB , Xtxp34 and Sb5_236 explained higher phenotypic variance of Al tolerance indices. Markers 835_200 , 884_200 , Sb6_34 and Sb6_342 are located on different chromosomes, which implies the presence of several genes involved in Al tolerance in addition to S bMATE in sorghum. These molecular markers have a high potential for use in breeding for Al tolerance in sorghum.

  15. Expression of heavy metal tolerance in pollen and implications for gametophytic selection. [The plants used were clones of Silene dioica and Mimulus guttatus

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

    Searcy, K.B.

    Many genes are expressed in both sporophytic and microgametophytic phases of the angiosperm life cycle. Thus, selection in one phase could modify gene frequency in both phases. An attempt was made to investigate microgametophytic selection in response to toxic concentrations of heavy metals and the effect of this selection upon the resultant sporophyte generation. The plants used were clones of a zinc-tolerant Silene dioica, closely related nontolerant S. alba, and copper tolerant and non-tolerant clones of Mimulus guttatus. First, the expression of metal tolerance in pollen was established by in vitro pollen germination and tube growth, and was found tomore » be associated with the tolerance of the pollen source. Second, to test the extent to which the parallel expression of metal tolerance was determined by the gametophytic genotype, tolerant but segregating clones were grown with and without added metals. Finally, selection was applied during pollen germination, tube growth and fertilization. In Silene, neither the tolerance of the pollen nor the metal content of the styles affected pollen tube growth rate. In Mimulus, pollen from the nontolerant source grew faster, but the metal content of the floral tissue had no significant effect on pollen tube growth rate, and only slightly reduced the fertilization ability of pollen from the nontolerant clone.« less

  16. Full-Authority Fault-Tolerant Electronic Engine Control Systems for Variable Cycle Engines.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1981-12-01

    Geometry or Fuel Flow Scheduled as a Function of Engine State, i.e. FIGV = f( N1 C2 ) Closed Loop - Geometry or Fuel Flow Modulated To Maintain an Engine...Low Pressure Turbine Inlet Area (A41) Closed Loop (Integral) N2, T22 Core Stream Exhaust Nozzle Area (AJE) Closed Loop (Integral) N1 , T2 Duct Stream...to remain at the breakpoint value while low rotor speed reference ( N1 reference) is scheduled to decrease as a function of power lever angle (PLA), to

  17. Magnetic field errors tolerances of Nuclotron booster

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Butenko, Andrey; Kazinova, Olha; Kostromin, Sergey; Mikhaylov, Vladimir; Tuzikov, Alexey; Khodzhibagiyan, Hamlet

    2018-04-01

    Generation of magnetic field in units of booster synchrotron for the NICA project is one of the most important conditions for getting the required parameters and qualitative accelerator operation. Research of linear and nonlinear dynamics of ion beam 197Au31+ in the booster have carried out with MADX program. Analytical estimation of magnetic field errors tolerance and numerical computation of dynamic aperture of booster DFO-magnetic lattice are presented. Closed orbit distortion with random errors of magnetic fields and errors in layout of booster units was evaluated.

  18. Responsive systems - The challenge for the nineties

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Malek, Miroslaw

    1990-01-01

    A concept of responsive computer systems will be introduced. The emerging responsive systems demand fault-tolerant and real-time performance in parallel and distributed computing environments. The design methodologies for fault-tolerant, real time and responsive systems will be presented. Novel techniques of introducing redundancy for improved performance and dependability will be illustrated. The methods of system responsiveness evaluation will be proposed. The issues of determinism, closed and open systems will also be discussed from the perspective of responsive systems design.

  19. Three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy by delineations on CT-based simulation in different respiratory phases for the treatment of senile patients with non-small cell lung cancer.

    PubMed

    Wang, Weifeng; Yuan, Feng; Wang, Guoping; Lin, Zhiren; Pan, Yanling; Chen, Longhua

    2015-01-01

    This study aimed to evaluate the application of three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3D-CRT) for elderly patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) based on computed tomography (CT) simulations in different respiratory phases. A total of 64 patients aged >70 years old with NSCLC were treated by 3D-CRT using CT images in different respiratory phases. The gross tumor volumes (GTVs) at the end of inspiration and end of expiration were combined to obtain the total GTV, which was close to the motional range of tumors during respiration, and no additional expansion of the clinical target volume (CTAV) to planning target volume (PTV) (CTAV:PTV) was included during the recording of respiratory movements. Patients were also planned according to the classic 3D-CRT approach. Efficacy, prognostic factors, and side effects were evaluated. Compared with the classic approach, the average PTV was 18.9% lower (median: 17.3%), and the average lung volume receiving a prescribed dose for a tumor was 22.4% lower (median: 20.9%). The 1-, 2-, and 3-year survival rates were 70.6%, 54.9%, and 29.4%, respectively, with an overall tumor response rate of 79.7%. The Karnofsky performance status and N stage were independent prognostic factors, whereas age was not. Without affecting therapeutic effects, CT simulations in different respiratory phases were well-tolerated in elderly patients with NSCLC, could effectively reduce PTV, and could improve the quality of life.

  20. One-dimensional and two-dimensional hydrodynamic modelling derived flow properties: Impacts on aquatic habitat quality predictions

    Treesearch

    Rohan Benjankar; Daniele Tonina; James McKean

    2014-01-01

    Studies of the effects of hydrodynamic model dimensionality on simulated flow properties and derived quantities such as aquatic habitat quality are limited. It is important to close this knowledge gap especially now that entire river networks can be mapped at the microhabitat scale due to the advent of point-cloud techniques. This study compares flow properties, such...

  1. Recovery from dispositional and pharmacodynamic tolerance after chronic pentobarbital treatment.

    PubMed

    Okamoto, M; Rao, S N; Reyes, J; Rifkind, A B

    1985-10-01

    Recovery characteristics of dispositional and pharmacodynamic tolerances produced by chronic Na-pentobarbital treatment were studied. To study dispositional tolerance, the rate of disappearance of pentobarbital from blood was estimated by sequential blood sampling before and after chronic treatment and during 15 days of withdrawal after chronic treatment. Pentobarbital half-life values were compared with four representative cytochrome P-450-mediated hepatic microsomal mixed-function oxidase reactions: aminopyrine demethylase, benzo(a)pyrene hydroxylase, 7-ethoxycoumarin deethylase and 7-ethoxyresorufin deethylase and with the concentration of cytochrome P-450 in sequentially biopsied liver samples. Pharmacodynamic tolerance was evaluated by measuring the increase in pentobarbital blood concentration required to produce predetermined central nervous system functional depression ratings. The recovery from dispositional tolerance was more rapid than the recovery from pharmacodynamic tolerance. Thus, whereas cytochrome P-450 levels and pentobarbital elimination rates were increased to close to twice pretreatment values by chronic treatment, by about 2 week post-withdrawal the values had normalized. In contrast, pharmacodynamic tolerance persisted after no residual dispositional tolerance remained. The neuronal functions most sensitive to barbiturate (i.e., sedation and loss of fine motor coordination) exhibited a greater degree of pharmacodynamic tolerance than other functions; hence the recovery of these neuronal functions took a longer period of time for their recovery. However, the rates of recovery of pharmacodynamic tolerance at all levels of central nervous system function seemed relatively constant indicating that there are uniform readaptation mechanisms for all the central nervous systems functions.

  2. Closed-Loop Evaluation of an Integrated Failure Identification and Fault Tolerant Control System for a Transport Aircraft

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Shin, Jong-Yeob; Belcastro, Christine; Khong, thuan

    2006-01-01

    Formal robustness analysis of aircraft control upset prevention and recovery systems could play an important role in their validation and ultimate certification. Such systems developed for failure detection, identification, and reconfiguration, as well as upset recovery, need to be evaluated over broad regions of the flight envelope or under extreme flight conditions, and should include various sources of uncertainty. To apply formal robustness analysis, formulation of linear fractional transformation (LFT) models of complex parameter-dependent systems is required, which represent system uncertainty due to parameter uncertainty and actuator faults. This paper describes a detailed LFT model formulation procedure from the nonlinear model of a transport aircraft by using a preliminary LFT modeling software tool developed at the NASA Langley Research Center, which utilizes a matrix-based computational approach. The closed-loop system is evaluated over the entire flight envelope based on the generated LFT model which can cover nonlinear dynamics. The robustness analysis results of the closed-loop fault tolerant control system of a transport aircraft are presented. A reliable flight envelope (safe flight regime) is also calculated from the robust performance analysis results, over which the closed-loop system can achieve the desired performance of command tracking and failure detection.

  3. Laser-fiber coupling by means of a silicon micro-optical bench and a self-aligned soldering process

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Schmidt, Jan P.; Cordes, A.; Mueller, Joerg; Burkhardt, Hans

    1995-02-01

    The alignment of laser diodes to monomode fibers has to meet extremely close tolerances for a low coupling loss. Typically < 0.5 micrometers in lateral and vertical direction and less than two degrees in angle deviation are allowed for a coupling loss below 2 dB. Presently such close tolerances can only be met by gluing or soldering both components on separate base plates and combining them via piezoactivated alignment monitoring the output of the circuit and then gluing them using UV-hardening epoxies. Such a procedure is not very economical and not useful for mass applications. This paper presents the principle and realization of a silicon micro-optical bench for laser-fiber-coupling, which avoids the above mentioned disadvantages. The micro-optical bench is realized using well controlled plasma etching processes to transfer the guiding patterns for the laser and the fiber into the silicon substrate, keeping geometry tolerances below +/- 0.5 micrometers in lateral and vertical direction. Mounting the laser diode by means of a self-aligned soldering process, an additional contribution to the precise alignment of the laser is further improved.

  4. Cost saving synergistic shaft seal

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Ludwig, L. P.; Strom, T. N.

    1976-01-01

    Segmented carbon rings, used to replace elastomeric seal lip, provide resistance to high temperatures generated in lubricating film. Machining and close manufacturing tolerances of conventional segmented seal are avoided by mounting segmented rings in elastomeric flex section.

  5. SARS Patients and Their Close Contacts

    MedlinePlus

    ... symptoms, limit your activities outside the home. Avoid public transportation (e.g., bus, taxi). Do not go to ... wear a mask, if tolerated. Do not use public transportation. Wash your hands often and well, especially after ...

  6. Root-Zone-Specific Oxygen Tolerance of Azospirillum spp. and Diazotrophic Rods Closely Associated with Kallar Grass.

    PubMed

    Hurek, T; Reinhold, B; Fendrik, I; Niemann, E G

    1987-01-01

    The effect of oxygen on N(2)-dependent growth of two Azospirillum strains and two diazotrophic rods closely associated with roots of Kallar grass (Leptochloa fusca) was studied. To enable precise comparison, bacteria were grown in dissolved-oxygen-controlled batch and continuous cultures. Steady states were obtained from about 1 to 30 muM O(2), some of them being carbon limited. All strains needed a minimum amount of oxygen for N(2)-dependent growth. Nitrogen contents between 10 and 13% of cell dry weight were observed. The response of steady-state cultures to increasing O(2) concentrations suggested that carbon limitation shifted to internal nitrogen limitation when N(2) fixation became so low that the bacteria could no longer meet their requirements for fixed nitrogen. For Azospirillum lipoferum Rp5, increase of the dilution rate resulted in decreased N(2) fixation in steady-state cultures with internal nitrogen limitation. Oxygen tolerance was found to be strain specific in A. lipoferum with strain Sp59b as a reference organism. Oxygen tolerance of strains from Kallar grass was found to be root zone specific. A. halopraeferens Au 4 and A. lipoferum Rp5, predominating on the rhizoplane of Kallar grass, and strains H6a2 and BH72, predominating in the endorhizosphere, differed in their oxygen tolerance profiles. Strains H6a2 and BH72 still grew and fixed nitrogen in steady-state cultures at O(2) concentrations exceeding those which absolutely inhibited nitrogen fixation of both Azospirillum strains. It is proposed that root-zone-specific oxygen tolerance reflects an adaptation of the isolates to the microenvironments provided by the host plant.

  7. Obese mice on a high-fat alternate-day fasting regimen lose weight and improve glucose tolerance.

    PubMed

    Joslin, P M N; Bell, R K; Swoap, S J

    2017-10-01

    Alternate-day fasting (ADF) causes body weight (BW) loss in humans and rodents. However, it is not clear that ADF while maintaining a high-fat (HF) diet results in weight loss and the accompanying improvement in control of circulating glucose. We tested the hypotheses that a high-fat ADF protocol in obese mice would result in (i) BW loss, (ii) improved glucose control, (iii) fluctuating phenotypes on 'fasted' days when compared to 'fed' days and (iv) induction of torpor on 'fasted days'. We evaluated the physiological effects of ADF in diet-induced obese mice for BW, heart rate (HR), body temperature (T b ), glucose tolerance, insulin responsiveness, blood parameters (leptin, insulin, free fatty acids) and hepatic gene expression. Diet-induced obese male C57BL/6J mice lost one-third of their pre-diet BW while on an ADF diet for 10 weeks consisting of HF food. The ADF protocol improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity, although mice on a fast day were less glucose tolerant than the same mice on a fed day. ADF mice on a fast day had low circulating insulin, but had an enhanced response to an insulin-assisted glucose tolerance test, suggesting the impaired glucose tolerance may be a result of insufficient insulin production. On fed days, ADF mice were the warmest, had a high HR and displayed hepatic gene expression and circulating leptin that closely mimicked that of mice fed an ad lib HF diet. ADF mice never entered torpor as assessed by HR and T b . However, on fast days, they were the coolest, had the slowest HR, and displayed hepatic gene expression and circulating leptin that closely mimicked that of Chow-Fed mice. Collectively, the ADF regimen with a HF diet in obese mice results in weight loss, improved blood glucose control, and daily fluctuations in selected physiological and biochemical parameters in the mouse. Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition © 2016 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.

  8. Roads towards fault-tolerant universal quantum computation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Campbell, Earl T.; Terhal, Barbara M.; Vuillot, Christophe

    2017-09-01

    A practical quantum computer must not merely store information, but also process it. To prevent errors introduced by noise from multiplying and spreading, a fault-tolerant computational architecture is required. Current experiments are taking the first steps toward noise-resilient logical qubits. But to convert these quantum devices from memories to processors, it is necessary to specify how a universal set of gates is performed on them. The leading proposals for doing so, such as magic-state distillation and colour-code techniques, have high resource demands. Alternative schemes, such as those that use high-dimensional quantum codes in a modular architecture, have potential benefits, but need to be explored further.

  9. Roads towards fault-tolerant universal quantum computation.

    PubMed

    Campbell, Earl T; Terhal, Barbara M; Vuillot, Christophe

    2017-09-13

    A practical quantum computer must not merely store information, but also process it. To prevent errors introduced by noise from multiplying and spreading, a fault-tolerant computational architecture is required. Current experiments are taking the first steps toward noise-resilient logical qubits. But to convert these quantum devices from memories to processors, it is necessary to specify how a universal set of gates is performed on them. The leading proposals for doing so, such as magic-state distillation and colour-code techniques, have high resource demands. Alternative schemes, such as those that use high-dimensional quantum codes in a modular architecture, have potential benefits, but need to be explored further.

  10. The Emerging Role of 3-Dimensional Printing in Rhinology.

    PubMed

    Stokken, Janalee K; Pallanch, John F

    2017-06-01

    Nasal septal perforations, particularly those that are large and irregular in shape, often present as challenging surgical dilemmas. New technology has allowed us to develop techniques using computed tomography imaging and 3-dimensional (3D) printers to design custom polymeric silicone septal buttons. These buttons offer patients an option that avoids a surgical intervention when standard buttons do not fit well or are not tolerated. Preliminary data suggest that buttons designed by 3D printer technology provide more comfort than standard commercially available or hand-carved buttons with equivalent reduction of symptoms. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  11. Reliability of system for precise cold forging

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Krušič, Vid; Rodič, Tomaž

    2017-07-01

    The influence of scatter of principal input parameters of the forging system on the dimensional accuracy of product and on the tool life for closed-die forging process is presented in this paper. Scatter of the essential input parameters for the closed-die upsetting process was adjusted to the maximal values that enabled the reliable production of a dimensionally accurate product at optimal tool life. An operating window was created in which exists the maximal scatter of principal input parameters for the closed-die upsetting process that still ensures the desired dimensional accuracy of the product and the optimal tool life. Application of the adjustment of the process input parameters is shown on the example of making an inner race of homokinetic joint from mass production. High productivity in manufacture of elements by cold massive extrusion is often achieved by multiple forming operations that are performed simultaneously on the same press. By redesigning the time sequences of forming operations at multistage forming process of starter barrel during the working stroke the course of the resultant force is optimized.

  12. [Treatment of temporo-mandibular joint closed-lock using intra-articular injection of mepivacaine with immediate resolution durable in time (six months follow-up)].

    PubMed

    Guarda Nardini, L; Tito, R; Beltrame, A

    2002-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to assess the value of intra-articular fluid injection under pressure, as a technique suggested for temporo-mandibular joint (TMJ) closed-lock treatment, and to determine if there is a persisting lock resolution in time. Twelve patients were studied at our centre, with a diagnosis of TMJ closed-lock, not amenable with conventional therapies. All patients underwent a MRI scan, confirming the presence of anteriorly displaced disk. This technique is based on intra-articular injection of anaesthetic (mepivacaine cloridrate) under pressure, using the so called pumping technique, that allows an inferior distraction of the condyle. The study has a six months follow-up. After closed-lock resolution all patients underwent physiotherapy with guided mouth opening, for one month. Mandibular function (maximal mouth opening) increased on average of 20.2 mm after treatment, and of 21.1 mm six months later (p=0.00000; with p<0.005). Pain decreased on average from VAS=6.75 to VAS=0.3 (p=0.00001; with p<0.005). The masticatory efficiency improved from VAS=5.25 to VAS=8.75 (p=0.002; p<0.005). Functional TMJ limitation level is significantly increased (p=0.002; p<0.005). Also, patient's efficacy judgement (mean value 3.58= good) and tolerability judgement (mean value 2.92=good) indicate that this therapy is well accepted. This technique is easy to perform, well tolerated and does not need specific instruments: it permits the resolution of TMJ closed-lock, decreases the pain and improves masticatory efficiency. All these effects persist in time. Subjects with recent closed-lock have an immediate and complete functional recovery while patients with chronic closed-lock do not.

  13. Changes in luminescence emission induced by proton irradiation: InGaAs/GaAs quantum wells and quantum dots

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Leon, R.; Swift, G. M.; Magness, B.; Taylor, W. A.; Tang, Y. S.; Wang, K. L.; Dowd, P.; Zhang, Y. H.

    2000-01-01

    The photoluminescence emission from InGaAs/GaAs quantum-well and quantum-dot (QD) structures are compared after controlled irradiation with 1.5 MeV proton fluxes. Results presented here show a significant enhancement in radiation tolerance with three-dimensional quantum confinement.

  14. 24 CFR 200.949 - Building product standards and certification program for exterior insulated steel door systems.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... Mass Applications; (ii) ISDSI-100-90—Door Size Dimensional Standard and Assembly Tolerances for... 24 Housing and Urban Development 2 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Building product standards and... INTRODUCTION TO FHA PROGRAMS Minimum Property Standards § 200.949 Building product standards and certification...

  15. Parametric Evaluation of SiC/SiC Composite Cladding with UO2 Fuel for LWR Applications: Fuel Rod Interactions and Impact of Nonuniform Power Profile in Fuel Rod

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Singh, G.; Sweet, R.; Brown, N. R.; Wirth, B. D.; Katoh, Y.; Terrani, K.

    2018-02-01

    SiC/SiC composites are candidates for accident tolerant fuel cladding in light water reactors. In the extreme nuclear reactor environment, SiC-based fuel cladding will be exposed to neutron damage, significant heat flux, and a corrosive environment. To ensure reliable and safe operation of accident tolerant fuel cladding concepts such as SiC-based materials, it is important to assess thermo-mechanical performance under in-reactor conditions including irradiation and realistic temperature distributions. The effect of non-uniform dimensional changes caused by neutron irradiation with spatially varying temperatures, along with the closing of the fuel-cladding gap, on the stress development in the cladding over the course of irradiation were evaluated. The effect of non-uniform circumferential power profile in the fuel rod on the mechanical performance of the cladding is also evaluated. These analyses have been performed using the BISON fuel performance modeling code and the commercial finite element analysis code Abaqus. A constitutive model is constructed and solved numerically to predict the stress distribution in the cladding under normal operating conditions. The dependence of dimensions and thermophysical properties on irradiation dose and temperature has been incorporated into the models. Initial scoping results from parametric analyses provide time varying stress distributions in the cladding as well as the interaction of fuel rod with the cladding under different conditions of initial fuel rod-cladding gap and linear heat rate. It is found that a non-uniform circumferential power profile in the fuel rod may cause significant lateral bowing in the cladding, and motivates further analysis and evaluation.

  16. Real-time closed-loop simulation and upset evaluation of control systems in harsh electromagnetic environments

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Belcastro, Celeste M.

    1989-01-01

    Digital control systems for applications such as aircraft avionics and multibody systems must maintain adequate control integrity in adverse as well as nominal operating conditions. For example, control systems for advanced aircraft, and especially those with relaxed static stability, will be critical to flight and will, therefore, have very high reliability specifications which must be met regardless of operating conditions. In addition, multibody systems such as robotic manipulators performing critical functions must have control systems capable of robust performance in any operating environment in order to complete the assigned task reliably. Severe operating conditions for electronic control systems can result from electromagnetic disturbances caused by lightning, high energy radio frequency (HERF) transmitters, and nuclear electromagnetic pulses (NEMP). For this reason, techniques must be developed to evaluate the integrity of the control system in adverse operating environments. The most difficult and illusive perturbations to computer-based control systems that can be caused by an electromagnetic environment (EME) are functional error modes that involve no component damage. These error modes are collectively known as upset, can occur simultaneously in all of the channels of a redundant control system, and are software dependent. Upset studies performed to date have not addressed the assessment of fault tolerant systems and do not involve the evaluation of a control system operating in a closed-loop with the plant. A methodology for performing a real-time simulation of the closed-loop dynamics of a fault tolerant control system with a simulated plant operating in an electromagnetically harsh environment is presented. In particular, considerations for performing upset tests on the controller are discussed. Some of these considerations are the generation and coupling of analog signals representative of electromagnetic disturbances to a control system under test, analog data acquisition, and digital data acquisition from fault tolerant systems. In addition, a case study of an upset test methodology for a fault tolerant electromagnetic aircraft engine control system is presented.

  17. Genetic analysis of tolerance to the root lesion nematode Pratylenchus neglectus in the legume Medicago littoralis.

    PubMed

    Oldach, Klaus H; Peck, David M; Nair, Ramakrishnan M; Sokolova, Maria; Harris, John; Bogacki, Paul; Ballard, Ross

    2014-04-17

    The nematode Pratylenchus neglectus has a wide host range and is able to feed on the root systems of cereals, oilseeds, grain and pasture legumes. Under the Mediterranean low rainfall environments of Australia, annual Medicago pasture legumes are used in rotation with cereals to fix atmospheric nitrogen and improve soil parameters. Considerable efforts are being made in breeding programs to improve resistance and tolerance to Pratylenchus neglectus in the major crops wheat and barley, which makes it vital to develop appropriate selection tools in medics. A strong source of tolerance to root damage by the root lesion nematode (RLN) Pratylenchus neglectus had previously been identified in line RH-1 (strand medic, M. littoralis). Using RH-1, we have developed a single seed descent (SSD) population of 138 lines by crossing it to the intolerant cultivar Herald. After inoculation, RLN-associated root damage clearly segregated in the population. Genetic analysis was performed by constructing a genetic map using simple sequence repeat (SSR) and gene-based SNP markers. A highly significant quantitative trait locus (QTL), QPnTolMl.1, was identified explaining 49% of the phenotypic variation in the SSD population. All SSRs and gene-based markers in the QTL region were derived from chromosome 1 of the sequenced genome of the closely related species M. truncatula. Gene-based markers were validated in advanced breeding lines derived from the RH-1 parent and also a second RLN tolerance source, RH-2 (M. truncatula ssp. tricycla). Comparative analysis to sequenced legume genomes showed that the physical QTL interval exists as a synteny block in Lotus japonicus, common bean, soybean and chickpea. Furthermore, using the sequenced genome information of M. truncatula, the QTL interval contains 55 genes out of which five are discussed as potential candidate genes responsible for the mapped tolerance. The closely linked set of SNP-based PCR markers is directly applicable to select for two different sources of RLN tolerance in breeding programs. Moreover, genome sequence information has allowed proposing candidate genes for further functional analysis and nominates QPnTolMl.1 as a target locus for RLN tolerance in economically important grain legumes, e.g. chickpea.

  18. Abundance of Plasma Antioxidant Proteins Confers Tolerance to Acute Hypobaric Hypoxia Exposure

    PubMed Central

    Padhy, Gayatri; Sethy, Niroj Kumar; Ganju, Lilly

    2013-01-01

    Abstract Padhy, Gayatri, Niroj Kumar Sethy, Lilly Ganju, and Kalpana Bhargava. Abundance of plasma antioxidant proteins confers tolerance to acute hypobaric hypoxia exposure. High Alt Med Biol 14:289–297, 2013—Systematic identification of molecular signatures for hypobaric hypoxia can aid in better understanding of human adaptation to high altitude. In an attempt to identify proteins promoting hypoxia tolerance during acute exposure to high altitude, we screened and identified hypoxia tolerant and susceptible rats based on hyperventilation time to a simulated altitude of 32,000 ft (9754 m). The hypoxia tolerance was further validated by estimating 8-isoprotane levels and protein carbonyls, which revealed that hypoxia tolerant rats possessed significant lower plasma levels as compared to susceptible rats. We used a comparative plasma proteome profiling approach using 2-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DGE) combined with MALDI TOF/TOF for both groups, along with an hypoxic control group. This resulted in the identification of 19 differentially expressed proteins. Seven proteins (TTR, GPx-3, PON1, Rab-3D, CLC11, CRP, and Hp) were upregulated in hypoxia tolerant rats, while apolipoprotein A-I (APOA1) was upregulated in hypoxia susceptible rats. We further confirmed the consistent higher expression levels of three antioxidant proteins (PON1, TTR, and GPx-3) in hypoxia-tolerant animals using ELISA and immunoblotting. Collectively, these proteomics-based results highlight the role of antioxidant enzymes in conferring hypoxia tolerance during acute hypobaric hypoxia. The expression of these antioxidant enzymes could be used as putative biomarkers for screening altitude adaptation as well as aiding in better management of altered oxygen pathophysiologies. PMID:24067188

  19. A Lower Limb-Pelvis Finite Element Model with 3D Active Muscles.

    PubMed

    Mo, Fuhao; Li, Fan; Behr, Michel; Xiao, Zhi; Zhang, Guanjun; Du, Xianping

    2018-01-01

    A lower limb-pelvis finite element (FE) model with active three-dimensional (3D) muscles was developed in this study for biomechanical analysis of human body. The model geometry was mainly reconstructed from a male volunteer close to the anthropometry of a 50th percentile Chinese male. Tissue materials and structural features were established based on the literature and new implemented experimental tests. In particular, the muscle was modeled with a combination of truss and hexahedral elements to define its passive and active properties as well as to follow the detailed anatomy structure. Both passive and active properties of the model were validated against the experiments of Post-Mortem Human Surrogate (PMHS) and volunteers, respectively. The model was then used to simulate driver's emergency braking during frontal crashes and investigate Knee-Thigh-Hip (KTH) injury mechanisms and tolerances of the human body. A significant force and bending moment variance was noted for the driver's femur due to the effects of active muscle forces during emergency braking. In summary, the present lower limb-pelvis model can be applied in various research fields to support expensive and complex physical tests or corresponding device design.

  20. Demonstration of a quantum error detection code using a square lattice of four superconducting qubits

    PubMed Central

    Córcoles, A.D.; Magesan, Easwar; Srinivasan, Srikanth J.; Cross, Andrew W.; Steffen, M.; Gambetta, Jay M.; Chow, Jerry M.

    2015-01-01

    The ability to detect and deal with errors when manipulating quantum systems is a fundamental requirement for fault-tolerant quantum computing. Unlike classical bits that are subject to only digital bit-flip errors, quantum bits are susceptible to a much larger spectrum of errors, for which any complete quantum error-correcting code must account. Whilst classical bit-flip detection can be realized via a linear array of qubits, a general fault-tolerant quantum error-correcting code requires extending into a higher-dimensional lattice. Here we present a quantum error detection protocol on a two-by-two planar lattice of superconducting qubits. The protocol detects an arbitrary quantum error on an encoded two-qubit entangled state via quantum non-demolition parity measurements on another pair of error syndrome qubits. This result represents a building block towards larger lattices amenable to fault-tolerant quantum error correction architectures such as the surface code. PMID:25923200

  1. Demonstration of a quantum error detection code using a square lattice of four superconducting qubits.

    PubMed

    Córcoles, A D; Magesan, Easwar; Srinivasan, Srikanth J; Cross, Andrew W; Steffen, M; Gambetta, Jay M; Chow, Jerry M

    2015-04-29

    The ability to detect and deal with errors when manipulating quantum systems is a fundamental requirement for fault-tolerant quantum computing. Unlike classical bits that are subject to only digital bit-flip errors, quantum bits are susceptible to a much larger spectrum of errors, for which any complete quantum error-correcting code must account. Whilst classical bit-flip detection can be realized via a linear array of qubits, a general fault-tolerant quantum error-correcting code requires extending into a higher-dimensional lattice. Here we present a quantum error detection protocol on a two-by-two planar lattice of superconducting qubits. The protocol detects an arbitrary quantum error on an encoded two-qubit entangled state via quantum non-demolition parity measurements on another pair of error syndrome qubits. This result represents a building block towards larger lattices amenable to fault-tolerant quantum error correction architectures such as the surface code.

  2. Effects of Notch Misalignment and Tip Radius on Displacement Field in V-Notch Rail Shear Test as Determined by Photogrammetry

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hill, Charles S.; Oliveras, Ovidio M.

    2011-01-01

    Evolution of the 3D strain field during ASTM-D-7078 v-notch rail shear tests on 8-ply quasi-isotropic carbon fiber/epoxy laminates was determined by optical photogrammetry using an ARAMIS system. Specimens having non-optimal geometry and minor discrepancies in dimensional tolerances were shown to display non-symmetry and/or stress concentration in the vicinity of the notch relative to a specimen meeting the requirements of the standard, but resulting shear strength and modulus values remained within acceptable bounds of standard deviation. Based on these results, and reported difficulty machining specimens to the required tolerances using available methods, it is suggested that a parametric study combining analytical methods and experiment may provide rationale to increase the tolerances on some specimen dimensions, reducing machining costs, increasing the proportion of acceptable results, and enabling a wider adoption of the test method.

  3. Fault-tolerant simple quantum-bit commitment unbreakable by individual attacks

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shimizu, Kaoru; Imoto, Nobuyuki

    2002-03-01

    This paper proposes a simple scheme for quantum-bit commitment that is secure against individual particle attacks, where a sender is unable to use quantum logical operations to manipulate multiparticle entanglement for performing quantum collective and coherent attacks. Our scheme employs a cryptographic quantum communication channel defined in a four-dimensional Hilbert space and can be implemented by using single-photon interference. For an ideal case of zero-loss and noiseless quantum channels, our basic scheme relies only on the physical features of quantum states. Moreover, as long as the bit-flip error rates are sufficiently small (less than a few percent), we can improve our scheme and make it fault tolerant by adopting simple error-correcting codes with a short length. Compared with the well-known Brassard-Crepeau-Jozsa-Langlois 1993 (BCJL93) protocol, our scheme is mathematically far simpler, more efficient in terms of transmitted photon number, and better tolerant of bit-flip errors.

  4. High-resolution mapping of a major effect QTL from wild tomato Solanum habrochaites that influences water relations under root chilling.

    PubMed

    Arms, Erin M; Bloom, Arnold J; St Clair, Dina A

    2015-09-01

    QTL stm9 controlling rapid-onset water stress tolerance in S. habrochaites was high-resolution mapped to a chromosome 9 region that contains genes associated with abiotic stress tolerances. Wild tomato (Solanum habrochaites) exhibits tolerance to abiotic stresses, including drought and chilling. Root chilling (6 °C) induces rapid-onset water stress by impeding water movement from roots to shoots. S. habrochaites responds to such changes by closing stomata and maintaining shoot turgor, while cultivated tomato (S. lycopersicum) fails to close stomata and wilts. This response (shoot turgor maintenance under root chilling) is controlled by a major QTL (designated stm9) on chromosome 9, which was previously fine-mapped to a 2.7-cM region. Recombinant sub-near-isogenic lines for chromosome 9 were marker-selected, phenotyped for shoot turgor maintenance under root chilling in two sets of replicated experiments (Fall and Spring), and the data were used to high-resolution map QTL stm9 to a 0.32-cM region. QTL mapping revealed a single QTL that was coincident for both the Spring and Fall datasets, suggesting that the gene or genes contributing to shoot turgor maintenance under root chilling reside within the marker interval H9-T1673. In the S. lycopersicum reference genome sequence, this chromosome 9 region is gene-rich and contains representatives of gene families that have been associated with abiotic stress tolerance.

  5. Three-dimensional measurements of fatigue crack closure

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Ray, S. K.; Grandt, A. F., Jr.

    1984-01-01

    Fatigue crack growth and retardation experiments conducted in polycarbonate test specimen are described. The transparent test material allows optical interferometry measurements of the fatigue crack opening (and closing) profiles. Crack surface displacements are obtained through the specimen thickness and three dimensional aspects of fatigue crack closure are discussed.

  6. Special Holonomy and Two-Dimensional Supersymmetric Sigma-Models

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Stojevic, Vid

    2006-11-01

    Two-dimensional sigma-models describing superstrings propagating on manifolds of special holonomy are characterized by symmetries related to covariantly constant forms that these manifolds hold, which are generally non-linear and close in a field dependent sense. The thesis explores various aspects of the special holonomy symmetries.

  7. Identification of Putative Transmembrane Proteins Involved in Salinity Tolerance in Chenopodium quinoa by Integrating Physiological Data, RNAseq, and SNP Analyses

    PubMed Central

    Schmöckel, Sandra M.; Lightfoot, Damien J.; Razali, Rozaimi; Tester, Mark; Jarvis, David E.

    2017-01-01

    Chenopodium quinoa (quinoa) is an emerging crop that produces nutritious grains with the potential to contribute to global food security. Quinoa can also grow on marginal lands, such as soils affected by high salinity. To identify candidate salt tolerance genes in the recently sequenced quinoa genome, we used a multifaceted approach integrating RNAseq analyses with comparative genomics and topology prediction. We identified 219 candidate genes by selecting those that were differentially expressed in response to salinity, were specific to or overrepresented in quinoa relative to other Amaranthaceae species, and had more than one predicted transmembrane domain. To determine whether these genes might underlie variation in salinity tolerance in quinoa and its close relatives, we compared the response to salinity stress in a panel of 21 Chenopodium accessions (14 C. quinoa, 5 C. berlandieri, and 2 C. hircinum). We found large variation in salinity tolerance, with one C. hircinum displaying the highest salinity tolerance. Using genome re-sequencing data from these accessions, we investigated single nucleotide polymorphisms and copy number variation (CNV) in the 219 candidate genes in accessions of contrasting salinity tolerance, and identified 15 genes that could contribute to the differences in salinity tolerance of these Chenopodium accessions. PMID:28680429

  8. Dissipation of excess photosynthetic energy contributes to salinity tolerance: a comparative study of salt-tolerant Ricinus communis and salt-sensitive Jatropha curcas.

    PubMed

    Lima Neto, Milton C; Lobo, Ana K M; Martins, Marcio O; Fontenele, Adilton V; Silveira, Joaquim Albenisio G

    2014-01-01

    The relationships between salt tolerance and photosynthetic mechanisms of excess energy dissipation were assessed using two species that exhibit contrasting responses to salinity, Ricinus communis (tolerant) and Jatropha curcas (sensitive). The salt tolerance of R. communis was indicated by unchanged electrolyte leakage (cellular integrity) and dry weight in leaves, whereas these parameters were greatly affected in J. curcas. The leaf Na+ content was similar in both species. Photosynthesis was intensely decreased in both species, but the reduction was more pronounced in J. curcas. In this species biochemical limitations in photosynthesis were more prominent, as indicated by increased C(i) values and decreased Rubisco activity. Salinity decreased both the V(cmax) (in vivo Rubisco activity) and J(max) (maximum electron transport rate) more significantly in J. curcas. The higher tolerance in R. communis was positively associated with higher photorespiratory activity, nitrate assimilation and higher cyclic electron flow. The high activity of these alternative electron sinks in R. communis was closely associated with a more efficient photoprotection mechanism. In conclusion, salt tolerance in R. communis, compared with J. curcas, is related to higher electron partitioning from the photosynthetic electron transport chain to alternative sinks. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

  9. Supersonic N-Crowdions in a Two-Dimensional Morse Crystal

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dmitriev, S. V.; Korznikova, E. A.; Chetverikov, A. P.

    2018-03-01

    An interstitial atom placed in a close-packed atomic row of a crystal is called crowdion. Such defects are highly mobile; they can move along the row, transferring mass and energy. We generalize the concept of a classical supersonic crowdion to an N-crowdion in which not one but N atoms move simultaneously with a high velocity. Using molecular dynamics simulations for a close-packed two-dimensional Morse crystal, we show that N-crowdions transfer mass much more efficiently, because they are capable of covering large distances while having a lower total energy than that of a classical 1-crowdion.

  10. Speciation and Neutral Molecular Evolution in One-Dimensional Closed Population

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Semovski, Sergei V.; Bukin, Yuri S.; Sherbakov, Dmitry Yu.

    Models are presented suitable for a description of speciation processes arising due to reproductive isolation depending on genetic distance. The main attention is paid to the model of a one-dimensional closed population, which describes the evolution of littoral benthic organisms. In order to correspond the modeling results to the results obtained in the course of experimental phylogenetic studies, all individual-based models described here involve neutrally evolving and maternally inherited DNA sequence. Sub-samples of the resulting sequences were used for a posteriori phylogenetic inferences which then were compared to the "true" evolutionary histories.

  11. Phase I/II study of hypofractioned radiation with three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy for clinical T3-4N0-1M0 stage esophageal carcinoma.

    PubMed

    Song, Y-P; Ma, J-B; Hu, L-K; Zhou, W; Chen, E-C; Zhang, W

    2011-02-01

    Compared to conventional fractionated-dose radiotherapy, high hypofractionated-dose radiotherapy could yield tumoricidal effects. However, few clinical trials of hypofractionated radiotherapy in loco-regionally advanced incurable esophageal cancer at present have yet been performed. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of hypofractioned radiation with three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy for clinical T3-4N0-1M0 stage esophageal carcinoma. From September 2003 to December 2005, 45 patients with locally advanced esophageal carcinoma were grouped and received three-dimensional conformal hypofractioned radiotherapy (3D-CRT) whose fractionated dose was gradually increase per group. Radiotherapy was administered to a total dose of from 50 to 54 Gy (fractionated dose of from 3.0 to 6.0 Gy, 3 times weekly), over a 3-4 week period. And patients received 4 cycles chemotherapy. The median follow-up period for survivors was 38 months. Treatment tolerance rate was 78.8% with daily dose of from 3 to 5 Gy. There are 21.2% patients occurring Grade ≥ 3 acute toxicities. But patients couldn't tolerate daily dose of 6 Gy (55.6%). The 1-year, 2-year and 3-year local control rates were 62%, 49% and 39% respectively. And the 1-year, 2-year and 3-year overall survival rates were 34%, 21% and 9% respectively. The median overall survival time was 17 months. At the time of following up, 13 patients (31.0%) had occurred esophageal late complications, with mainly esophageal perforation, hemorrhage or stenosis, including initial stenosis aggravation. Therefore hypofractionated irradiation was thought to be feasible for clinical T3-4N0-1M0 stage esophageal carcinoma. And daily dose of ≤5 Gy was comparatively suitable in hypofractionated irradiation for esophageal carcinoma, and the patients tolerated well. But further research was in need also.

  12. Nature of the chemical bond and prediction of radiation tolerance in pyrochlore and defect fluorite compounds

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

    Lumpkin, Gregory R.; Institute of Materials and Engineering Science, Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Private Mail Bag 1, Menai, NSW 2234; Pruneda, Miguel

    2007-04-15

    The radiation tolerance of synthetic pyrochlore and defect fluorite compounds has been studied using ion irradiation. We show that the results can be quantified in terms of the critical temperature for amorphization, structural parameters, classical Pauling electronegativity difference, and disorder energies. Our results demonstrate that radiation tolerance is correlated with a change in the structure from pyrochlore to defect fluorite, a smaller unit cell dimension, and lower cation-anion disorder energy. Radiation tolerance is promoted by an increase in the Pauling cation-anion electronegativity difference or, in other words, an increase in the ionicity of the chemical bonds. A further analysis ofmore » the data indicates that, of the two possible cation sites in ideal pyrochlore, the smaller B-site cation appears to play the major role in bonding. This result is supported by ab initio calculations of the structure and bonding, showing a correlation between the Mulliken overlap populations of the B-site cation and the critical temperature. - Graphical abstract: Three-dimensional representation of the predicted critical amorphization temperature in pyrochlores.« less

  13. Proteomic analysis of a high aluminum tolerant yeast Rhodotorula taiwanensis RS1 in response to aluminum stress.

    PubMed

    Wang, Chao; Wang, Chang Yi; Zhao, Xue Qiang; Chen, Rong Fu; Lan, Ping; Shen, Ren Fang

    2013-10-01

    Rhodotorula taiwanensis RS1 is a high-aluminum (Al)-tolerant yeast that can survive in Al concentrations up to 200mM. The mechanisms for the high Al tolerance of R. taiwanensis RS1 are not well understood. To investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying Al tolerance and toxicity in R. taiwanensis RS1, Al toxicity-induced changes in the total soluble protein profile were analyzed using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) coupled with mass spectrometry. A total of 33 differentially expressed proteins responding to Al stress were identified from approximately 850 reproducibly detected proteins. Among them, the abundance of 29 proteins decreased and 4 increased. In the presence of 100mM Al, the abundance of proteins involved in DNA transcription, protein translation, DNA defense, Golgi functions and glucose metabolism was decreased. By contrast, Al treatment led to increased abundance of malate dehydrogenase, which correlated with increased malate dehydrogenase activity and the accumulation of intracellular citrate, suggesting that Al-induced intracellular citrate could play an important role in detoxification of Al in R. taiwanensis RS1. © 2013.

  14. Identification of Mild Freezing Shock Response Pathways in Barley Based on Transcriptome Profiling.

    PubMed

    Wang, Xiaolei; Wu, Dezhi; Yang, Qian; Zeng, Jianbin; Jin, Gulei; Chen, Zhong-Hua; Zhang, Guoping; Dai, Fei

    2016-01-01

    Low temperature is a major abiotic stress affecting crop growth and productivity. A better understanding of low temperature tolerance mechanisms is imperative for developing the crop cultivars with improved tolerance. We herein performed an Illumina RNA-sequencing experiment using two barley genotypes differing in freezing tolerance (Nure, tolerant and Tremois, sensitive), to determine the transcriptome profiling and genotypic difference under mild freezing shock treatment after a very short acclimation for gene induction. A total of 6474 differentially expressed genes, almost evenly distributed on the seven chromosomes, were identified. The key DEGs could be classified into six signaling pathways, i.e., Ca(2+) signaling, PtdOH signaling, CBFs pathway, ABA pathway, jasmonate pathway, and amylohydrolysis pathway. Expression values of DEGs in multiple signaling pathways were analyzed and a hypothetical model of mild freezing shock tolerance mechanism was proposed. Expression and sequence profile of HvCBFs cluster within Frost resistance-H2, a major quantitative trait locus on 5H being closely related to low temperature tolerance in barley, were further illustrated, considering the crucial role of HvCBFs on freezing tolerance. It may be concluded that multiple signaling pathways are activated in concert when barley is exposed to mild freezing shock. The pathway network we presented may provide a platform for further exploring the functions of genes involved in low temperature tolerance in barley.

  15. SOF Integration with Conventional Forces: A Doctrine Gap?

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2011-12-01

    close tolerances, friction in an engine can be reduced considerably. However, there will always be energy lost in the system as heat. The goal is to...armed peshmerga. The combat power analysis favored the Iraqis on the ground. JSOTF planners only recourse was to rely on air power to close this gap . A...Approved for Public Release; Distribution is Unlimited SOF Integration with Conventional Forces: A Doctrine Gap ? A Monograph by MAJ Gregory M

  16. Calcineurin Controls Hyphal Growth, Virulence, and Drug Tolerance of Candida tropicalis

    PubMed Central

    Yu, Shang-Jie; Huang, Hsin-Yu; Chang, Ya-Lin; Lehman, Virginia N.; Silao, Fitz Gerald S.; Bigol, Ursela G.; Bungay, Alice Alma C.; Averette, Anna

    2014-01-01

    Candida tropicalis, a species closely related to Candida albicans, is an emerging fungal pathogen associated with high mortality rates of 40 to 70%. Like C. albicans and Candida dubliniensis, C. tropicalis is able to form germ tubes, pseudohyphae, and hyphae, but the genes involved in hyphal growth machinery and virulence remain unclear in C. tropicalis. Recently, echinocandin- and azole-resistant C. tropicalis isolates have frequently been isolated from various patients around the world, making treatment difficult. However, studies of the C. tropicalis genes involved in drug tolerance are limited. Here, we investigated the roles of calcineurin and its potential target, Crz1, for core stress responses and pathogenesis in C. tropicalis. We demonstrate that calcineurin and Crz1 are required for hyphal growth, micafungin tolerance, and virulence in a murine systemic infection model, while calcineurin but not Crz1 is essential for tolerance of azoles, caspofungin, anidulafungin, and cell wall-perturbing agents, suggesting that calcineurin has both Crz1-dependent and -independent functions in C. tropicalis. In addition, we found that calcineurin and Crz1 have opposite roles in controlling calcium tolerance. Calcineurin serves as a negative regulator, while Crz1 plays a positive role for calcium tolerance in C. tropicalis. PMID:24442892

  17. Evaluation of zinc accumulation, allocation, and tolerance in Zea mays L. seedlings: implication for zinc phytoextraction.

    PubMed

    Bashmakov, Dmitry I; Lukatkin, Alexander S; Anjum, Naser A; Ahmad, Iqbal; Pereira, Eduarda

    2015-10-01

    This work investigated the accumulation, allocation, and impact of zinc (Zn; 1.0 μM-10 mM) in maize (Zea mays L.) seedlings under simulated laboratory conditions. Z. mays exhibited no significant change in its habitus (the physical characteristics of plants) up to 10-1000 μM of Zn (vs 5-10 mM Zn). Zn tolerance evaluation, based on the root test, indicated a high tolerance of Z. mays to both low and intermediate (or relatively high) concentrations of Zn, whereas this plant failed to tolerate 10 mM Zn and exhibited a 5-fold decrease in its Zn tolerance. Contingent to Zn treatment levels, Zn hampered the growth of axial organs and brought decreases in the leaf area, water regime, and biomass accumulation. Nevertheless, at elevated levels of Zn (10 mM), Zn(2+) was stored in the root cytoplasm and inhibited both axial organ growth and water regime. However, accumulation and allocation of Zn in Z. mays roots, studied herein employing X-ray fluorimeter and histochemical methods, were close to Zn accumulator plants. Overall, the study outcomes revealed Zn tolerance of Z. mays, and also implicate its potential role in Zn phytoextraction.

  18. Bit-Table Based Biclustering and Frequent Closed Itemset Mining in High-Dimensional Binary Data

    PubMed Central

    Király, András; Abonyi, János

    2014-01-01

    During the last decade various algorithms have been developed and proposed for discovering overlapping clusters in high-dimensional data. The two most prominent application fields in this research, proposed independently, are frequent itemset mining (developed for market basket data) and biclustering (applied to gene expression data analysis). The common limitation of both methodologies is the limited applicability for very large binary data sets. In this paper we propose a novel and efficient method to find both frequent closed itemsets and biclusters in high-dimensional binary data. The method is based on simple but very powerful matrix and vector multiplication approaches that ensure that all patterns can be discovered in a fast manner. The proposed algorithm has been implemented in the commonly used MATLAB environment and freely available for researchers. PMID:24616651

  19. Fractional-dimensional Child-Langmuir law for a rough cathode

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zubair, M.; Ang, L. K.

    2016-07-01

    This work presents a self-consistent model of space charge limited current transport in a gap combined of free-space and fractional-dimensional space (Fα), where α is the fractional dimension in the range 0 < α ≤ 1. In this approach, a closed-form fractional-dimensional generalization of Child-Langmuir (CL) law is derived in classical regime which is then used to model the effect of cathode surface roughness in a vacuum diode by replacing the rough cathode with a smooth cathode placed in a layer of effective fractional-dimensional space. Smooth transition of CL law from the fractional-dimensional to integer-dimensional space is also demonstrated. The model has been validated by comparing results with an experiment.

  20. The study of integration about measurable image and 4D production

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Chunsen; Hu, Pingbo; Niu, Weiyun

    2008-12-01

    In this paper, we create the geospatial data of three-dimensional (3D) modeling by the combination of digital photogrammetry and digital close-range photogrammetry. For large-scale geographical background, we make the establishment of DEM and DOM combination of three-dimensional landscape model based on the digital photogrammetry which uses aerial image data to make "4D" (DOM: Digital Orthophoto Map, DEM: Digital Elevation Model, DLG: Digital Line Graphic and DRG: Digital Raster Graphic) production. For the range of building and other artificial features which the users are interested in, we realize that the real features of the three-dimensional reconstruction adopting the method of the digital close-range photogrammetry can come true on the basis of following steps : non-metric cameras for data collection, the camera calibration, feature extraction, image matching, and other steps. At last, we combine three-dimensional background and local measurements real images of these large geographic data and realize the integration of measurable real image and the 4D production.The article discussed the way of the whole flow and technology, achieved the three-dimensional reconstruction and the integration of the large-scale threedimensional landscape and the metric building.

  1. Synchronous Controlled Switching by VCB with Electromagnetic Operation Mechanism

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Horinouchi, Katsuhiko; Tsukima, Mitsuru; Tohya, Nobumoto; Inoue, Ryuuichi; Sasao, Hiroyuki

    Synchronously controlled switching to suppress transient overvoltage and overcurrent resulting from when the circuit breakers on medium voltage systems are closed is described. Firstly, by simulation it is found that if the closing time is synchronously controlled so that the contacts of the circuit breaker close completely at the instant when the voltage across contacts of the breaker at each of the three individual phases are zero, the resulting overvoltage and overcurrent is significantly suppressed when compared to conventional three phase simultaneous closing. Next, an algorithm for determining the closing timing based on a forecasted voltage zero waveform, obtained from voltage sampling data, is presented. Finally, a synchronous closing experiment of voltage 22kV utilizing a controller to implement the algorithm and a VCB with an electromagnetic operation mechanism is presented. The VCB was successfully closed at the zero point within a tolerance range of 200 microseconds.

  2. Robust Optimization Design Algorithm for High-Frequency TWTs

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Wilson, Jeffrey D.; Chevalier, Christine T.

    2010-01-01

    Traveling-wave tubes (TWTs), such as the Ka-band (26-GHz) model recently developed for the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter, are essential as communication amplifiers in spacecraft for virtually all near- and deep-space missions. This innovation is a computational design algorithm that, for the first time, optimizes the efficiency and output power of a TWT while taking into account the effects of dimensional tolerance variations. Because they are primary power consumers and power generation is very expensive in space, much effort has been exerted over the last 30 years to increase the power efficiency of TWTs. However, at frequencies higher than about 60 GHz, efficiencies of TWTs are still quite low. A major reason is that at higher frequencies, dimensional tolerance variations from conventional micromachining techniques become relatively large with respect to the circuit dimensions. When this is the case, conventional design- optimization procedures, which ignore dimensional variations, provide inaccurate designs for which the actual amplifier performance substantially under-performs that of the design. Thus, this new, robust TWT optimization design algorithm was created to take account of and ameliorate the deleterious effects of dimensional variations and to increase efficiency, power, and yield of high-frequency TWTs. This design algorithm can help extend the use of TWTs into the terahertz frequency regime of 300-3000 GHz. Currently, these frequencies are under-utilized because of the lack of efficient amplifiers, thus this regime is known as the "terahertz gap." The development of an efficient terahertz TWT amplifier could enable breakthrough applications in space science molecular spectroscopy, remote sensing, nondestructive testing, high-resolution "through-the-wall" imaging, biomedical imaging, and detection of explosives and toxic biochemical agents.

  3. On l(1): Optimal decentralized performance

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Sourlas, Dennis; Manousiouthakis, Vasilios

    1993-01-01

    In this paper, the Manousiouthakis parametrization of all decentralized stabilizing controllers is employed in mathematically formulating the l(sup 1) optimal decentralized controller synthesis problem. The resulting optimization problem is infinite dimensional and therefore not directly amenable to computations. It is shown that finite dimensional optimization problems that have value arbitrarily close to the infinite dimensional one can be constructed. Based on this result, an algorithm that solves the l(sup 1) decentralized performance problems is presented. A global optimization approach to the solution of the infinite dimensional approximating problems is also discussed.

  4. Relative abundance of Delta(5)-sterols in plasma membrane lipids of root-tip cells correlates with aluminum tolerance of rice.

    PubMed

    Khan, M Shahadat Hossain; Tawaraya, Keitarou; Sekimoto, Hiroshi; Koyama, Hiroyuki; Kobayashi, Yuriko; Murayama, Tetsuya; Chuba, Masaru; Kambayashi, Mihoko; Shiono, Yoshihito; Uemura, Matsuo; Ishikawa, Satoru; Wagatsuma, Tadao

    2009-01-01

    We investigated variations in aluminum (Al) tolerance among rice plants, using ancestor cultivars from the family line of the Al-tolerant and widely cultivated Japonica cultivar, Sasanishiki. The cultivar Rikuu-20 was Al sensitive, whereas a closely related cultivar that is a descendant of Rikuu-20, Rikuu-132, was Al tolerant. These two cultivars were compared to determine mechanisms underlying variations in Al tolerance. The sensitive cultivar Rikuu-20 showed increased permeability of the plasma membrane (PM) and greater Al uptake within 1 h of Al treatment. This could not be explained by organic acid release. Lipid composition of the PM differed between these cultivars, and may account for the difference in Al tolerance. The tolerant cultivar Rikuu-132 had a lower ratio of phospholipids to Delta(5)-sterols than the sensitive cultivar Rikuu-20, suggesting that the PM of Rikuu-132 is less negatively charged and less permeabilized than that of Rikuu-20. We used inhibitors of Delta(5)-sterol synthesis to alter the ratio of phospholipids to Delta(5)-sterols in both cultivars. These inhibitors reduced Al tolerance in Rikuu-132 and its Al-tolerant ancestor cultivars Kamenoo and Kyoku. In addition, Rikuu-132 showed a similar level of Al sensitivity when the ratio of phospholipids to Delta(5)-sterols was increased to match that of Rikuu-20 after treatment with uniconazole-P, an inhibitor of obtusifoliol-14alpha-demethylase. These results indicate that PM lipid composition is a factor underlying variations in Al tolerance among rice cultivars.

  5. Discrete elliptic solitons in two-dimensional waveguide arrays

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ye, Fangwei; Dong, Liangwei; Wang, Jiandong; Cai, Tian; Li, Yong-Ping

    2005-04-01

    The fundamental properties of discrete elliptic solitons (DESs) in the two-dimensional waveguide arrays were studied. The DESs show nontrivial spatial structures in their parameters space due to the introduction of the new freedom of ellipticity, and their stability is closely linked to their propagation directions in the transverse plane.

  6. Flow near a model spur dike with a fixed scoured bed

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    Three-dimensional flow velocities were measured using an acoustic Doppler velocimeter at a closely spaced grid over a fixed scoured bed with a submerged spur dike. Three-dimensional flow velocities were measured at 3484 positions around the trapezoidal shaped submerged model spur dike over a fixed ...

  7. Sliding Mode Fault Tolerant Control with Adaptive Diagnosis for Aircraft Engines

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xiao, Lingfei; Du, Yanbin; Hu, Jixiang; Jiang, Bin

    2018-03-01

    In this paper, a novel sliding mode fault tolerant control method is presented for aircraft engine systems with uncertainties and disturbances on the basis of adaptive diagnostic observer. By taking both sensors faults and actuators faults into account, the general model of aircraft engine control systems which is subjected to uncertainties and disturbances, is considered. Then, the corresponding augmented dynamic model is established in order to facilitate the fault diagnosis and fault tolerant controller design. Next, a suitable detection observer is designed to detect the faults effectively. Through creating an adaptive diagnostic observer and based on sliding mode strategy, the sliding mode fault tolerant controller is constructed. Robust stabilization is discussed and the closed-loop system can be stabilized robustly. It is also proven that the adaptive diagnostic observer output errors and the estimations of faults converge to a set exponentially, and the converge rate greater than some value which can be adjusted by choosing designable parameters properly. The simulation on a twin-shaft aircraft engine verifies the applicability of the proposed fault tolerant control method.

  8. Opportunity Landing Spot Panorama (3-D Model)

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    2004-01-01

    The rocky outcrop traversed by the Mars Exploration Rover Opportunity is visible in this three-dimensional model of the rover's landing site. Opportunity has acquired close-up images along the way, and scientists are using the rover's instruments to closely examine portions of interest. The white fragments that look crumpled near the center of the image are portions of the airbags. Distant scenery is displayed on a spherical backdrop or 'billboard' for context. Artifacts near the top rim of the crater are a result of the transition between the three-dimensional model and the billboard. Portions of the terrain model lacking sufficient data appear as blank spaces or gaps, colored reddish-brown for better viewing. This image was generated using special software from NASA's Ames Research Center and a mosaic of images taken by the rover's panoramic camera.

    [figure removed for brevity, see original site] Click on image for larger view

    The rocky outcrop traversed by the Mars Exploration Rover Opportunity is visible in this zoomed-in portion of a three-dimensional model of the rover's landing site. Opportunity has acquired close-up images along the way, and scientists are using the rover's instruments to closely examine portions of interest. The white fragments that look crumpled near the center of the image are portions of the airbags. Distant scenery is displayed on a spherical backdrop or 'billboard' for context. Artifacts near the top rim of the crater are a result of the transition between the three-dimensional model and the billboard. Portions of the terrain model lacking sufficient data appear as blank spaces or gaps, colored reddish-brown for better viewing. This image was generated using special software from NASA's Ames Research Center and a mosaic of images taken by the rover's panoramic camera.

  9. Comparative analysis of proteomic changes in contrasting flax cultivars upon cadmium exposure.

    PubMed

    Hradilová, Jana; Rehulka, Pavel; Rehulková, Helena; Vrbová, Miroslava; Griga, Miroslav; Brzobohatý, Bretislav

    2010-01-01

    Cadmium (Cd) is classified as a serious pollutant due to its high toxicity, high carcinogenicity, and widespread presence in the environment. Phytoremediation represents an effective low-cost approach for removing pollutants from contaminated soils, and a crop with significant phytoremediation potential is flax. However, significant differences in Cd accumulation and tolerance were previously found among commercial flax cultivars. Notably, cv. Jitka showed substantially higher tolerance to elevated Cd levels in soil and plant tissues than cv. Tábor. Here, significant changes in the expression of 14 proteins (related to disease/defense, metabolism, protein destination and storage, signal transduction, energy and cell structure) were detected by image and mass spectrometric analysis of two-dimensionally separated proteins extracted from Cd-treated cell suspension cultures derived from these contrasting cultivars. Further, two proteins, ferritin and glutamine synthetase (a key enzyme in glutathione biosynthesis), were only up-regulated by Cd in cv. Jitka, indicating that Cd tolerance mechanisms in this cultivar may include maintenance of low Cd levels at sensitive sites by ferritin and low-molecular weight thiol peptides binding Cd. The identified changes could facilitate marker-assisted breeding for Cd tolerance and the development of transgenic flax lines with enhanced Cd tolerance and accumulation capacities for phytoremediating Cd-contaminated soils.

  10. Composite mechanics for engine structures

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Chamis, Christos C.

    1987-01-01

    Recent research activities and accomplishments at Lewis Research Center on composite mechanics for engine structures are summarized. The activities focused mainly on developing procedures for the computational simulation of composite intrinsic and structural behavior. The computational simulation encompasses all aspects of composite mechanics, advanced three-dimensional finite-element methods, damage tolerance, composite structural and dynamic response, and structural tailoring and optimization.

  11. Composite mechanics for engine structures

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Chamis, Christos C.

    1989-01-01

    Recent research activities and accomplishments at Lewis Research Center on composite mechanics for engine structures are summarized. The activities focused mainly on developing procedures for the computational simulation of composite intrinsic and structural behavior. The computational simulation encompasses all aspects of composite mechanics, advanced three-dimensional finite-element methods, damage tolerance, composite structural and dynamic response, and structural tailoring and optimization.

  12. Research in computer science

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Ortega, J. M.

    1984-01-01

    The research efforts of University of Virginia students under a NASA sponsored program are summarized and the status of the program is reported. The research includes: testing method evaluations for N version programming; a representation scheme for modeling three dimensional objects; fault tolerant protocols for real time local area networks; performance investigation of Cyber network; XFEM implementation; and vectorizing incomplete Cholesky conjugate gradients.

  13. Alignment Jigs For Bonding End Fittings To Truss Members

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Sword, Lee F.

    1996-01-01

    Set of alignment jigs hold fittings during adhesive bonding of fittings to ends of truss members. For each member, jigs hold two end fittings collinear while member allowed to move slightly, within dimensional tolerances, during injection and curing of adhesive. Once adhesive cured, fittings remain collinear even though member not necessarily perfectly straight between them.

  14. The Martian and extraterrestrial UV radiation environment--1. Biological and closed-loop ecosystem considerations.

    PubMed

    Cockell, C S; Andrady, A L

    1999-01-01

    The Martian surface is exposed to both UVC radiation (<280 nm) and higher doses of UVB (280-315 nm) compared to the surface of the Earth. Terrestrial organisms have not evolved to cope with such high levels of UVC and UVB and thus any attempts to introduce organisms to Mars, particularly in closed-loop life support systems that use ambient sunlight, must address this problem. Here we examine the UV radiation environment of Mars with respect to biological systems. Action spectra and UV surface fluxes are used to estimate the UV stress that both DNA and chloroplasts would experience. From this vantage point it is possible to consider appropriate measures to address the problem of the Martian UV environment for future long term human exploration and settlement strategies. Some prospects for improving the UV tolerance of organisms are also discussed. Existing artificial ecosystems such as Biosphere 2 can provide some insights into design strategies pertinent to high UV environments. Some prospects for improving the UV tolerance of organisms are also discussed. The data also have implications for the establishment of closed-loop ecosystems using natural sunlight on the lunar surface and elsewhere in the Solar System.

  15. Apparatus and Method for Increasing the Diameter of Metal Alloy Wires Within a Molten Metal Pool

    DOEpatents

    Hartman, Alan D.; Argetsinger, Edward R.; Hansen, Jeffrey S.; Paige, Jack I.; King, Paul E.; Turner, Paul C.

    2002-01-29

    In a dip forming process the core material to be coated is introduced directly into a source block of coating material eliminating the need for a bushing entrance component. The process containment vessel or crucible is heated so that only a portion of the coating material becomes molten, leaving a solid portion of material as the entrance port of, and seal around, the core material. The crucible can contain molten and solid metals and is especially useful when coating core material with reactive metals. The source block of coating material has been machined to include a close tolerance hole of a size and shape to closely fit the core material. The core material moves first through the solid portion of the source block of coating material where the close tolerance hole has been machined, then through a solid/molten interface, and finally through the molten phase where the diameter of the core material is increased. The crucible may or may not require water-cooling depending upon the type of material used in crucible construction. The system may operate under vacuum, partial vacuum, atmospheric pressure, or positive pressure depending upon the type of source material being used.

  16. Apparatus and method for increasing the diameter of metal alloy wires within a molten metal pool

    DOEpatents

    Hartman, Alan D.; Argetsinger, Edward R.; Hansen, Jeffrey S.; Paige, Jack I.; King, Paul E.; Turner, Paul C.

    2002-01-29

    In a dip forming process the core material to be coated is introduced directly into a source block of coating material eliminating the need for a bushing entrance component. The process containment vessel or crucible is heated so that only a portion of the coating material becomes molten, leaving a solid portion of material as the entrance port of, and seal around, the core material. The crucible can contain molten and solid metals and is especially useful when coating core material with reactive metals. The source block of coating material has been machined to include a close tolerance hole of a size and shape to closely fit the core material. The core material moves first through the solid portion of the source block of coating material where the close tolerance hole has been machined, then through a solid/molten interface, and finally through the molten phase where the diameter of the core material is increased. The crucible may or may not require water-cooling depending upon the type of material used in crucible construction. The system may operate under vacuum, partial vacuum, atmospheric pressure, or positive pressure depending upon the type of source material being used.

  17. System Wide Joint Position Sensor Fault Tolerance in Robot Systems Using Cartesian Accelerometers

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Aldridge, Hal A.; Juang, Jer-Nan

    1997-01-01

    Joint position sensors are necessary for most robot control systems. A single position sensor failure in a normal robot system can greatly degrade performance. This paper presents a method to obtain position information from Cartesian accelerometers without integration. Depending on the number and location of the accelerometers. the proposed system can tolerate the loss of multiple position sensors. A solution technique suitable for real-time implementation is presented. Simulations were conducted using 5 triaxial accelerometers to recover from the loss of up to 4 joint position sensors on a 7 degree of freedom robot moving in general three dimensional space. The simulations show good estimation performance using non-ideal accelerometer measurements.

  18. Alkaline Fe(III) reduction by a novel alkali-tolerant Serratia sp. isolated from surface sediments close to Sellafield nuclear facility, UK.

    PubMed

    Thorpe, Clare L; Morris, Katherine; Boothman, Christopher; Lloyd, Jonathan R

    2012-02-01

    Extensive denitrification resulted in a dramatic increase in pH (from 6.8 to 9.5) in nitrate-impacted, acetate-amended sediment microcosms containing sediment representative of the Sellafield nuclear facility, UK. Denitrification was followed by Fe(III) reduction, indicating the presence of alkali-tolerant, metal-reducing bacteria. A close relative (99% 16S rRNA gene sequence homology) to Serratia liquefaciens dominated progressive enrichment cultures containing Fe(III)-citrate as the sole electron acceptor at pH 9 and was isolated aerobically using solid media. The optimum growth conditions for this facultatively anaerobic Serratia species were investigated, and it was capable of metabolizing a wide range of electron acceptors including oxygen, nitrate, FeGel, Fe-NTA and Fe-citrate and electron donors including acetate, lactate, formate, ethanol, glucose, glycerol and yeast extract at an optimum pH of c. 6.5 at 20 °C. The alkali tolerance of this strain extends the pH range of highly adaptable Fe(III)-reducing Serratia species from mildly acidic pH values associated with acid mine drainage conditions to alkali conditions representative of subsurface sediments stimulated for extensive denitrification and metal reduction. © 2011 Federation of European Microbiological Societies. Published by Blackwell Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved.

  19. Quantum circuits for qubit fusion

    DOE PAGES

    Moussa, Jonathan Edward

    2015-12-01

    In this article, we consider four-dimensional qudits as qubit pairs and their qudit Pauli operators as qubit Cli ord operators. This introduces a nesting, C 2 1 C C 4 2 C C 2 3, where C m n is the n th level of the m-dimensional qudit Cli ord hierarchy. If we can convert between logical qubits and qudits, then qudit Cli ord operators are qubit non-Cli ord operators. Conversion is achieved by qubit fusion and qudit fission using stabilizer circuits that consume a resource state. This resource is a fused qubit stabilizer state with a fault-tolerant state preparationmore » using stabilizer circuits.« less

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

    Moussa, Jonathan Edward

    In this article, we consider four-dimensional qudits as qubit pairs and their qudit Pauli operators as qubit Cli ord operators. This introduces a nesting, C 2 1 C C 4 2 C C 2 3, where C m n is the n th level of the m-dimensional qudit Cli ord hierarchy. If we can convert between logical qubits and qudits, then qudit Cli ord operators are qubit non-Cli ord operators. Conversion is achieved by qubit fusion and qudit fission using stabilizer circuits that consume a resource state. This resource is a fused qubit stabilizer state with a fault-tolerant state preparationmore » using stabilizer circuits.« less

  1. Indirect Effects of Energy Development in Grasslands

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Duquette, Cameron Albert

    Grassland landscapes in North America are undergoing rapid industrialization due to energy development facilitated by the growing popularity of fracking and horizontal drilling technology. Each year over 3 million hectares are lost from grassland and shrubland habitats to well infrastructure. Direct footprints from energy infrastructure cause impacts to vegetation cover, available cattle forage, carbon sequestration potential, and usable space for wildlife. However, legacy effects from well construction and noise pollution, light pollution, and altered viewsheds have the potential to impact areas beyond this direct footprint, causing additive and persistent changes to nearby grassland function. While these additional areas may be small on a well pad basis, they may have substantial cumulative impacts over time. To investigate these effects via a diversity of mechanisms, we studied the seasonal habitat selection of northern bobwhite (Colinus virginianus, hereafter bobwhite) in an energy-producing landscape to evaluate space use patterns relative to energy infrastructure. Habitat selection was modeled in the breeding and nonbreeding season using resource Utilization functions (RUFs). We then investigated patterns of vegetation, arthropod, and soil characteristics surrounding well pads to assess small scale environmental gradients extending away from drilling pads via a combination of multivariate and univariate techniques (i.e., Nonmetric dimensional scaling and ANOVA). We found minimal avoidance of energy structures by quail, suggesting a tolerance of moderate development levels. All small-scale effects studied except for soil moisture were impacted at the pad itself (P < 0.01). Off-pad impacts to arthropod abundance and biomass were spatially limited to areas close to pads, while vegetation cover was typically lower than the surrounding habitat beyond 10 m of pads. Soil surface temperature was higher at distances close to well pads, and soil moisture was not different between areas close to and far from well pads. Small-scale gradient results indicate vegetation effects around active drilling pads, potentially increasing erosion and decreasing nesting cover, decreasing carbon sequestration potential, and decreasing forage. Collectively, this research highlights the complexity and importance of impact thresholds in landscape fragmentation.

  2. The magnetosphere of Neptune - Its response to daily rotation

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Voigt, Gerd-Hannes; Ness, Norman F.

    1990-01-01

    The Neptunian magnetosphere periodically changes every eight hours between a pole-on magnetosphere with only one polar cusp and an earth-type magnetosphere with two polar cusps. In the pole-on configuration, the tail current sheet has an almost circular shape with plasma currents closing entirely within the magnetosphere. Eight hours later the tail current sheet assumes an almost flat shape with plasma currents touching the magnetotail boundary and closing over the tail magnetopause. Magnetic field and tail current sheet configurations have been calculated in a three-dimensional model, but the plasma- and thermodynamic conditions were investigated in a simplified two-dimensional MHD equilibrium magnetosphere. It was found that the free energy in the tail region of the two-dimensional model becomes independent of the dipole tilt angle. It is conjectured that the Neptunian magnetotail might assume quasi-static equilibrium states that make the free energy of the system independent of its daily rotation.

  3. [Nasolabial muscle finite-element study and clinical application].

    PubMed

    Yin, Ningbei; Wu, Jiajun; Chen, Bo; Wang, Yongqian; Song, Tao; Ma, Hengyuan

    2015-05-01

    To investigate the nasolabial muscle anatomy and biomechanical characteristics. Micro-computed tomography scan was performed in 8 cases of spontaneous abortion fetus lip nasal specimens to construct a three-dimensional model. The nasolabial muscle structure was analyzed using Mimics software. The three-dimensional configuration model of nasolabial muscle was established based on local anatomy and tissue section, and compared with tissue section. Three dimensional finite element analysis was performed on lip nasal muscle related biomechanics and surface deformation in Application verification was carried out in 263 cases of microform cleft lip surgery. There was close relationship between nasolabial muscle. The nasolabial muscle tension system was constituted, based on which a new cleft lip repair surgery was designed and satisfied results were achieved. There is close relationship among nasolabial muscle in anatomy, histology and biomechanics. To obtain better effect, cleft lip repair should be performed on the basis of recovering muscle tension system.

  4. Hypercyclic subspaces for Frechet space operators

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Petersson, Henrik

    2006-07-01

    A continuous linear operator is hypercyclic if there is an such that the orbit {Tnx} is dense, and such a vector x is said to be hypercyclic for T. Recent progress show that it is possible to characterize Banach space operators that have a hypercyclic subspace, i.e., an infinite dimensional closed subspace of, except for zero, hypercyclic vectors. The following is known to hold: A Banach space operator T has a hypercyclic subspace if there is a sequence (ni) and an infinite dimensional closed subspace such that T is hereditarily hypercyclic for (ni) and Tni->0 pointwise on E. In this note we extend this result to the setting of Frechet spaces that admit a continuous norm, and study some applications for important function spaces. As an application we also prove that any infinite dimensional separable Frechet space with a continuous norm admits an operator with a hypercyclic subspace.

  5. High-energy effective theory for matter on close Randall-Sundrum branes

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

    Rham, Claudia de; Webster, Samuel

    2005-09-15

    Extending the analysis of C. de Rham and S. Webster [Phys. Rev. D 71, 124025 (2005)], we obtain a formal expression for the coupling between brane matter and the radion in a Randall-Sundrum braneworld. This effective theory is correct to all orders in derivatives of the radion in the limit of small brane separation, and, in particular, contains no higher than second derivatives. In the case of cosmological symmetry the theory can be obtained in closed form and reproduces the five-dimensional behavior. Perturbations in the tensor and scalar sectors are then studied. When the branes are moving, the effective Newtonianmore » constant on the brane is shown to depend both on the distance between the branes and on their velocity. In the small-distance limit, we compute the exact dependence between the four-dimensional and the five-dimensional Newtonian constants.« less

  6. The dimensionality of DSM5 alcohol use disorder in Puerto Rico.

    PubMed

    Caetano, Raul; Vaeth, Patrice A C; Santiago, Katyana; Canino, Glorisa

    2016-11-01

    Test the dimensionality and measurement properties of lifetime DSM-5 AUD criteria in a sample of adults from the metropolitan area of San Juan, Puerto Rico. Cross-sectional study with survey data collected in 2013-2014. General population. Random household sample of the adult population 18 to 64years of age in San Juan, Puerto Rico (N=1510; lifetime drinker N=1107). DSM-5 alcohol use disorder (2 or more criteria present in 12months). Lifetime reports of AUD criteria were consistent with a one-dimensional model. Scalar measurement invariance was observed across gender, but measurement parameters for tolerance varied across age, with younger ages showing a lower threshold and steeper loading. Results provide support for a unidimensional DSM-5 AUD construct in a sample from a Latin American country. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  7. Neural-Network-Based Adaptive Decentralized Fault-Tolerant Control for a Class of Interconnected Nonlinear Systems.

    PubMed

    Li, Xiao-Jian; Yang, Guang-Hong

    2018-01-01

    This paper is concerned with the adaptive decentralized fault-tolerant tracking control problem for a class of uncertain interconnected nonlinear systems with unknown strong interconnections. An algebraic graph theory result is introduced to address the considered interconnections. In addition, to achieve the desirable tracking performance, a neural-network-based robust adaptive decentralized fault-tolerant control (FTC) scheme is given to compensate the actuator faults and system uncertainties. Furthermore, via the Lyapunov analysis method, it is proven that all the signals of the resulting closed-loop system are semiglobally bounded, and the tracking errors of each subsystem exponentially converge to a compact set, whose radius is adjustable by choosing different controller design parameters. Finally, the effectiveness and advantages of the proposed FTC approach are illustrated with two simulated examples.

  8. Face Centered Cubic and Hexagonal Close Packed Skyrmion Crystals in Centrosymmetric Magnets

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lin, Shi-Zeng; Batista, Cristian D.

    2018-02-01

    Skyrmions are disklike objects that typically form triangular crystals in two-dimensional systems. This situation is analogous to the so-called pancake vortices of quasi-two-dimensional superconductors. The way in which Skyrmion disks or "pancake Skyrmions" pile up in layered centrosymmetric materials is dictated by the interlayer exchange. Unbiased Monte Carlo simulations and simple stabilization arguments reveal face centered cubic and hexagonal close packed Skyrmion crystals for different choices of the interlayer exchange, in addition to the conventional triangular crystal of Skyrmion lines. Moreover, an inhomogeneous current induces a sliding motion of pancake Skyrmions, indicating that they behave as effective mesoscale particles.

  9. On spectral synthesis on zero-dimensional Abelian groups

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Platonov, S. S.

    2013-09-01

    Let G be a zero-dimensional locally compact Abelian group all of whose elements are compact, and let C(G) be the space of all complex-valued continuous functions on G. A closed linear subspace \\mathscr H\\subseteq C(G) is said to be an invariant subspace if it is invariant with respect to the translations \\tau_y\\colon f(x)\\mapsto f(x+y), y\\in G. In the paper, it is proved that any invariant subspace \\mathscr H admits spectral synthesis, that is, \\mathscr H coincides with the closed linear span of the characters of G belonging to \\mathscr H. Bibliography: 25 titles.

  10. A closed expression for the UV-divergent parts of one-loop tensor integrals in dimensional regularization

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sulyok, G.

    2017-07-01

    Starting from the general definition of a one-loop tensor N-point function, we use its Feynman parametrization to calculate the ultraviolet (UV-)divergent part of an arbitrary tensor coefficient in the framework of dimensional regularization. In contrast to existing recursion schemes, we are able to present a general analytic result in closed form that enables direct determination of the UV-divergent part of any one-loop tensor N-point coefficient independent from UV-divergent parts of other one-loop tensor N-point coefficients. Simplified formulas and explicit expressions are presented for A-, B-, C-, D-, E-, and F-functions.

  11. Continental diatom biodiversity in stream benthos declines as more nutrients become limiting

    PubMed Central

    Passy, Sophia I.

    2008-01-01

    Biodiversity of both terrestrial ecosystems and lacustrine phytoplankton increases with niche dimensionality, which can be determined by the number of limiting resources (NLR) in the environment. In the present continental study, I tested whether niche dimensionality and, with this species, richness scale positively with NLR in running waters. Diatom richness in 2,426 benthic and 383 planktonic communities from 760 and 127 distinct localities, respectively, was examined as a function of NLR, including basic cations, silica, iron, ammonia, nitrate, and dissolved phosphorus. The patterns found in the two communities were opposite: as more resources became limiting, diatom richness declined in the benthos but increased in the phytoplankton. The divergence of benthic from both planktonic and terrestrial communities is attributed to the complex spatial organization of the benthos, generating strong internal resource gradients. Differential stress tolerance among benthic diatoms allows substantial overgrowth, which greatly reduces nutrient transport to the biofilm base and can be supported only by high ambient resource levels. Therefore, niche dimensionality in the benthos increases with the number of resources at high supply. These findings provide a mechanistic explanation of the well documented phenomenon of increased species richness after fertilization in freshwater as opposed to terrestrial ecosystems. Clearly, however, new theoretical approaches, retaining resource availability as an environmental constraint but incorporating a trade-off between tolerance and spatial positioning, are necessary to address coexistence in one of the major producer communities in streams, the algae. PMID:18599459

  12. Species ecology determines the role of nitrogen nutrition in the frost tolerance of pine seedlings.

    PubMed

    Toca, Andrei; Oliet, Juan A; Villar-Salvador, Pedro; Maroto, Judit; Jacobs, Douglass F

    2018-01-01

    Frost determines the evolution and distribution of plants in temperate and cold regions. Several environmental factors can influence frost acclimation of woody plants but the magnitude and direction of the effect of nitrogen (N) availability is controversial. We studied the effect of N availability on root and shoot frost tolerance in mid-fall and in winter in seedlings of four pines of contrasting ecology: Pinus nigra J.F. Arnold, P. pinaster Ait., P. pinea L. and P. halepensis Mill.. Organ N and soluble sugar concentration, and timing of cessation of shoot elongation were measured to assess the physiological mechanisms underlying frost acclimation. Nitrogen was supplied at high and low rates only during the pre-hardening period and at a moderate N rate during hardening in the fall. Shoot frost tolerance increased over winter while root frost tolerance did not change in any species. Pre-hardening N availability affected the frost tolerance of both roots and shoots, although the effect was species-specific: high N reduced the overall root and shoot frost tolerance in P. pinea and P. halepensis, and increased the frost tolerance in P. nigra, but had no effect in P. pinaster. Nitrogen supply in the fall consistently increased frost tolerance in all species. Differences in frost tolerance among species and N treatments were not explained by variations in organ N or soluble carbohydrate concentration, nor by timing of cessation of shoot elongation; however, the most frost tolerant species ceased elongation earlier than the least frost tolerant species. Despite the close phylogenetic relatedness of the studied species, the effect of N availability on seedling frost tolerance differed among species, indicating that species ecology (especially frost acclimation physiology) and timing of N supply drives the effect of N availability on frost tolerance of pine species. © The Author(s) 2017. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

  13. Forming three-dimensional closed shapes from two-dimensional soft ribbons by controlled buckling

    PubMed Central

    Aoki, Michio

    2018-01-01

    Conventional manufacturing techniques—moulding, machining and casting—exist to produce three-dimensional (3D) shapes. However, these industrial processes are typically geared for mass production and are not directly applicable to residential settings, where inexpensive and versatile tools are desirable. Moreover, those techniques are, in general, not adequate to process soft elastic materials. Here, we introduce a new concept of forming 3D closed hollow shapes from two-dimensional (2D) elastic ribbons by controlled buckling. We numerically and experimentally characterize how the profile and thickness of the ribbon determine its buckled shape. We find a 2D master profile with which various elliptical 3D shapes can be formed. More complex natural and artificial hollow shapes, such as strawberry, hourglass and wheel, can also be achieved via strategic design and pattern engraving on the ribbons. The nonlinear response of the post-buckling regime is rationalized through finite-element analysis, which shows good quantitative agreement with experiments. This robust fabrication should complement conventional techniques and provide a rich arena for future studies on the mechanics and new applications of elastic hollow structures. PMID:29515894

  14. A One Dimensional, Time Dependent Inlet/Engine Numerical Simulation for Aircraft Propulsion Systems

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Garrard, Doug; Davis, Milt, Jr.; Cole, Gary

    1999-01-01

    The NASA Lewis Research Center (LeRC) and the Arnold Engineering Development Center (AEDC) have developed a closely coupled computer simulation system that provides a one dimensional, high frequency inlet/engine numerical simulation for aircraft propulsion systems. The simulation system, operating under the LeRC-developed Application Portable Parallel Library (APPL), closely coupled a supersonic inlet with a gas turbine engine. The supersonic inlet was modeled using the Large Perturbation Inlet (LAPIN) computer code, and the gas turbine engine was modeled using the Aerodynamic Turbine Engine Code (ATEC). Both LAPIN and ATEC provide a one dimensional, compressible, time dependent flow solution by solving the one dimensional Euler equations for the conservation of mass, momentum, and energy. Source terms are used to model features such as bleed flows, turbomachinery component characteristics, and inlet subsonic spillage while unstarted. High frequency events, such as compressor surge and inlet unstart, can be simulated with a high degree of fidelity. The simulation system was exercised using a supersonic inlet with sixty percent of the supersonic area contraction occurring internally, and a GE J85-13 turbojet engine.

  15. Forming three-dimensional closed shapes from two-dimensional soft ribbons by controlled buckling

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Aoki, Michio; Juang, Jia-Yang

    2018-02-01

    Conventional manufacturing techniques-moulding, machining and casting-exist to produce three-dimensional (3D) shapes. However, these industrial processes are typically geared for mass production and are not directly applicable to residential settings, where inexpensive and versatile tools are desirable. Moreover, those techniques are, in general, not adequate to process soft elastic materials. Here, we introduce a new concept of forming 3D closed hollow shapes from two-dimensional (2D) elastic ribbons by controlled buckling. We numerically and experimentally characterize how the profile and thickness of the ribbon determine its buckled shape. We find a 2D master profile with which various elliptical 3D shapes can be formed. More complex natural and artificial hollow shapes, such as strawberry, hourglass and wheel, can also be achieved via strategic design and pattern engraving on the ribbons. The nonlinear response of the post-buckling regime is rationalized through finite-element analysis, which shows good quantitative agreement with experiments. This robust fabrication should complement conventional techniques and provide a rich arena for future studies on the mechanics and new applications of elastic hollow structures.

  16. Environmental systems biology of cold-tolerant phenotype in Saccharomyces species adapted to grow at different temperatures.

    PubMed

    Paget, Caroline Mary; Schwartz, Jean-Marc; Delneri, Daniela

    2014-11-01

    Temperature is one of the leading factors that drive adaptation of organisms and ecosystems. Remarkably, many closely related species share the same habitat because of their different temporal or micro-spatial thermal adaptation. In this study, we seek to find the underlying molecular mechanisms of the cold-tolerant phenotype of closely related yeast species adapted to grow at different temperatures, namely S. kudriavzevii CA111 (cryo-tolerant) and S. cerevisiae 96.2 (thermo-tolerant). Using two different systems approaches, i. thermodynamic-based analysis of a genome-scale metabolic model of S. cerevisiae and ii. large-scale competition experiment of the yeast heterozygote mutant collection, genes and pathways important for the growth at low temperature were identified. In particular, defects in lipid metabolism, oxidoreductase and vitamin pathways affected yeast fitness at cold. Combining the data from both studies, a list of candidate genes was generated and mutants for two predicted cold-favouring genes, GUT2 and ADH3, were created in two natural isolates. Compared with the parental strains, these mutants showed lower fitness at cold temperatures, with S. kudriavzevii displaying the strongest defect. Strikingly, in S. kudriavzevii, these mutations also significantly improve the growth at warm temperatures. In addition, overexpression of ADH3 in S. cerevisiae increased its fitness at cold. These results suggest that temperature-induced redox imbalances could be compensated by increased glycerol accumulation or production of cytosolic acetaldehyde through the deletion of GUT2 or ADH3, respectively. © 2014 The Authors. Molecular Ecology Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  17. Copper tolerance and copper accumulation of herbaceous plants colonizing inactive California copper mines

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

    Kruckeberg, A.L.; Wu, L.

    1992-06-01

    Herbaceous plant species colonizing four copper mine waste sites in northern California were investigated for copper tolerance and copper accumulation. Copper tolerance was found in plant species colonizing soils with high concentrations of soil copper. Seven of the eight plant species tested were found at more than one copper mine. The mines are geographically isolated, which makes dispersal of seeds from one mine to another unlikely. Tolerance has probably evolved independently at each site. The nontolerant field control population of Vulpia microstachya displays significantly higher tolerance to copper at all copper concentration levels tested than the nontolerant Vulpia myrous population,more » and the degree of copper tolerance attained by V. microstachya at the two copper mines was much greater than that found in V. myrous. It suggests that even in these two closely related species, the innate tolerance in their nontolerant populations may reflect their potential for evolution of copper tolerance and their ability to initially colonize copper mine waste sites. The shoot tissue of the copper mine plants of Arenaria douglasii, Bromous mollis, and V. microstachya accumulated less copper than those plants of the same species from the field control sites when the two were grown in identical conditions in nutrient solution containing copper. The root tissue of these mine plants contain more copper than the roots of the nonmine plants. This result suggests that exclusion of copper from the shoots, in part by immobilization in the roots, may be a feature of copper tolerance. No difference in the tissue copper concentration was detected between tolerant and nontolerant plants of Lotus purshianus, Lupinus bicolor, and Trifolium pratense even though the root tissue had more copper than the leaves.« less

  18. Effects of cholinergic and beta-adrenergic blockade on orthostatic tolerance in healthy subjects

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Convertino, V. A.; Sather, T. M.

    2000-01-01

    Cardiovascular responses during a graded lower body negative pressure (LBNP) protocol were compared before and after atropine and propranolol administration to test the hypothesis that both sympathetic and parasympathetic control of cardio-acceleration are associated with syncopal predisposition to orthostatic stress in healthy subjects. Eleven men were categorized into two groups having high (HT, N = 6) or low (LT, N = 5) tolerance based on their total time before the onset of presyncopal symptoms. HT and LT groups were similar in physical characteristics, fitness, and baseline cardiovascular measurements. Atropine treatment had no effect on LBNP tolerance or mean arterial pressure at presyncope, despite an atropine-induced increase in heart rate. Propranolol treatment reduced (p<0.05) LBNP tolerance in both groups. Diminished LBNP tolerance after propranolol administration was associated with reductions in cardiac output, whereas increase in systemic peripheral resistance from baseline to presyncope was unaffected by propranolol. Reduction in cardiac output and LBNP tolerance after beta blockade reflected a chronotropic effect because lower LBNP tolerance for the HT (-50%) and LT (-39%) groups was associated with dramatic reductions (p <0.05) in the magnitude of LBNP-induced tachycardia without significant effects on stroke volume at presyncope. Absence of an atropine-induced difference in cardiac output and systemic peripheral resistance between HT and LT groups failed to support the notion that cardiac vagal withdrawal represents a predominant mechanism that could account for differences in orthostatic tolerance. Because a reduction in LBNP tolerance in both HT and LT groups after propranolol treatment was most closely associated with reduced tachycardia, the data suggest that a primary autonomically mediated mechanism for maintenance of mean arterial pressure and orthostatic tolerance in healthy subjects is beta adrenergic-induced tachycardia.

  19. Linearized compressible-flow theory for sonic flight speeds

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Heaslet, Max A; Lomax, Harvard; Spreiter, John R

    1950-01-01

    The partial differential equation for the perturbation velocity potential is examined for free-stream Mach numbers close to and equal to one. It is found that, under the assumptions of linearized theory, solutions can be found consistent with the theory for lifting-surface problems both in stationary three-dimensional flow and in unsteady two-dimensional flow. Several examples are solved including a three dimensional swept-back wing and two dimensional harmonically-oscillating wing, both for a free stream Mach number equal to one. Momentum relations for the evaluation of wave and vortex drag are also discussed. (author)

  20. Non-invasive assessment of respiratory muscle function and its relationship to exercise tolerance in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

    PubMed

    Chlumský, J; Filipova, P; Terl, M

    2006-01-01

    Most patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have impaired respiratory muscle function. Maximal oesophageal pressure correlates closely with exercise tolerance and seems to predict the distance walked during the 6-min walk test. This study assessed the non-invasive parameters of respiratory muscle function in 41 patients with COPD to investigate their relationship to pulmonary function tests and exercise tolerance. The COPD patients, who demonstrated the full range of airway obstruction severity, had a mean forced expiratory volume in 1 s of 42.5% predicted (range, 20 - 79% predicted). Both the maximal inspiratory muscle strength and non-invasive tension-time index were significantly correlated with the degree of lung hyperinflation, as expressed by the ratio of residual volume to total lung capacity, and the distance walked in 6 min. We conclude that respiratory muscle function was influenced mainly by lung hyperinflation and that it had an important effect on exercise tolerance in COPD patients.

  1. Evolutionary analysis and lateral gene transfer of two-component regulatory systems associated with heavy-metal tolerance in bacteria.

    PubMed

    Bouzat, Juan L; Hoostal, Matthew J

    2013-05-01

    Microorganisms have adapted intricate signal transduction mechanisms to coordinate tolerance to toxic levels of metals, including two-component regulatory systems (TCRS). In particular, both cop and czc operons are regulated by TCRS; the cop operon plays a key role in bacterial tolerance to copper, whereas the czc operon is involved in the efflux of cadmium, zinc, and cobalt from the cell. Although the molecular physiology of heavy metal tolerance genes has been extensively studied, their evolutionary relationships are not well-understood. Phylogenetic relationships among heavy-metal efflux proteins and their corresponding two-component regulatory proteins revealed orthologous and paralogous relationships from species divergences and ancient gene duplications. The presence of heavy metal tolerance genes on bacterial plasmids suggests these genes may be prone to spread through horizontal gene transfer. Phylogenetic inferences revealed nine potential examples of lateral gene transfer associated with metal efflux proteins and two examples for regulatory proteins. Notably, four of the examples suggest lateral transfer across major evolutionary domains. In most cases, differences in GC content in metal tolerance genes and their corresponding host genomes confirmed lateral gene transfer events. Three-dimensional protein structures predicted for the response regulators encoded by cop and czc operons showed a high degree of structural similarity with other known proteins involved in TCRS signal transduction, which suggests common evolutionary origins of functional phenotypes and similar mechanisms of action for these response regulators.

  2. Failure tolerance strategy of space manipulator for large load carrying tasks

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chen, Gang; Yuan, Bonan; Jia, Qingxuan; Sun, Hanxu; Guo, Wen

    2018-07-01

    During the execution of large load carrying tasks in long term service, there is a notable risk of space manipulator suffering from locked-joint failure, thus space manipulator should be with enough failure tolerance performance. A research on evaluating failure tolerance performance and re-planning feasible task trajectory for space manipulator performing large load carrying tasks is conducted in this paper. The effects of locked-joint failure on critical performance(reachability and load carrying capacity) of space manipulator are analyzed at first. According to the requirements of load carrying tasks, we further propose a new concept of failure tolerance workspace with load carrying capacity(FTWLCC) to evaluate failure tolerance performance, and improve the classic A* algorithm to search the feasible task trajectory. Through the normalized FTWLCC and the improved A* algorithm, the reachability and load carrying capacity of the degraded space manipulator are evaluated, and the reachable and capable trajectory can be obtained. The establishment of FTWLCC provides a novel idea that combines mathematical statistics with failure tolerance performance to illustrate the distribution of load carrying capacity in three-dimensional space, so multiple performance indices can be analyzed simultaneously and visually. And the full consideration of all possible failure situations and motion states makes FTWLCC and improved A* algorithm be universal and effective enough to be appropriate for random joint failure and variety of requirement of large load carrying tasks, so they can be extended to other types of manipulators.

  3. Redundant electronic circuit provides fail-safe control

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Archer, J. W.

    1970-01-01

    Circuit using dual control amplifiers and dual position demand potentiometers powered from separate sources is used for reliable hydraulic valve controller that prevents closure of valve when control circuits fail, and maintains valve control to close tolerance for more common modes of controller failure.

  4. Calcineurin controls hyphal growth, virulence, and drug tolerance of Candida tropicalis.

    PubMed

    Chen, Ying-Lien; Yu, Shang-Jie; Huang, Hsin-Yu; Chang, Ya-Lin; Lehman, Virginia N; Silao, Fitz Gerald S; Bigol, Ursela G; Bungay, Alice Alma C; Averette, Anna; Heitman, Joseph

    2014-07-01

    Candida tropicalis, a species closely related to Candida albicans, is an emerging fungal pathogen associated with high mortality rates of 40 to 70%. Like C. albicans and Candida dubliniensis, C. tropicalis is able to form germ tubes, pseudohyphae, and hyphae, but the genes involved in hyphal growth machinery and virulence remain unclear in C. tropicalis. Recently, echinocandin- and azole-resistant C. tropicalis isolates have frequently been isolated from various patients around the world, making treatment difficult. However, studies of the C. tropicalis genes involved in drug tolerance are limited. Here, we investigated the roles of calcineurin and its potential target, Crz1, for core stress responses and pathogenesis in C. tropicalis. We demonstrate that calcineurin and Crz1 are required for hyphal growth, micafungin tolerance, and virulence in a murine systemic infection model, while calcineurin but not Crz1 is essential for tolerance of azoles, caspofungin, anidulafungin, and cell wall-perturbing agents, suggesting that calcineurin has both Crz1-dependent and -independent functions in C. tropicalis. In addition, we found that calcineurin and Crz1 have opposite roles in controlling calcium tolerance. Calcineurin serves as a negative regulator, while Crz1 plays a positive role for calcium tolerance in C. tropicalis. Copyright © 2014, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

  5. Three Dimensional Architecture of Membrane-Embedded MscS in the Closed Conformation

    PubMed Central

    Vásquez, Valeria; Sotomayor, Marcos; Cortes, D. Marien; Roux, Benoît; Schulten, Klaus; Perozo, Eduardo

    2009-01-01

    The mechanosensitive channel of small conductance (MscS) is part of a coordinated response to osmotic challenges in E. coli. MscS opens as a result of membrane tension changes, thereby releasing small solutes and effectively acting as an osmotic safety valve. Both, the functional state depicted by its crystal structure and its gating mechanism remain unclear. Here, we combine site-directed spin labeling, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy, and molecular dynamics simulations with novel energy restraints based on experimental EPR data to investigate the native transmembrane and periplasmic molecular architecture of closed MscS in a lipid bilayer. In the closed conformation, MscS shows a more compact transmembrane domain than in the crystal structure, characterized by a realignment of the transmembrane segments towards the normal of the membrane. The previously unresolved NH2-terminus forms a short helical hairpin capping the extracellular ends of TM1 and TM2 and in close interaction with the bilayer interface. The present three-dimensional model of membrane-embedded MscS in the closed state represents a key step in determining the molecular mechanism of MscS gating. PMID:18343404

  6. Through-the Thickness(R) braided composites for aircraft applications

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Brown, Richard T.

    1992-01-01

    Material and structural specimens of Through-the-Thickness(R) braided textile composites were tested in a variety of experiments. The results have demonstrated that the preform architecture provides significant payoffs in damage tolerance, delamination resistance, and attachment strength. This paper describes the braiding process, surveys the experimental data base, and illustrates the application of three dimensional braiding in aircraft structures.

  7. Fault Tolerant Optimal Control.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1982-08-01

    subsystem is modelled by deterministic or stochastic finite-dimensional vector differential or difference equations. The parameters of these equations...is no partial differential equation that must be solved. Thus we can sidestep the inability to solve the Bellman equation for control problems with x...transition models and cost functionals can be reduced to the search for solutions of nonlinear partial differential equations using ’verification

  8. Preliminary work toward the development of a dimensional tolerance standard for rapid prototyping

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Kennedy, W. J.

    1996-01-01

    Rapid prototyping is a new technology for building parts quickly from CAD models. It works by slicing a CAD model into layers, then by building a model of the part one layer at a time. Since most parts can be sliced, most parts can be modeled using rapid prototyping. The layers themselves are created in a number of different ways - by using a laser to cure a layer of an epoxy or a resin, by depositing a layer of plastic or wax upon a surface, by using a laser to sinter a layer of powder, or by using a laser to cut a layer of paper. Rapid prototyping (RP) is new, and a standard part for use in comparing dimensional tolerances has not yet been chosen and accepted by ASTM (the American Society for Testing Materials). Such a part is needed when RP is used to build parts for investment casting or for direct use. The objective of this project was to start the development of a standard part by using statistical techniques to choose the features of the part which show curl - the vertical deviation of a part from its intended horizontal plane.

  9. A Glimpse in the Third Dimension for Electrical Resistivity Profiles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Robbins, A. R.; Plattner, A.

    2017-12-01

    We present an electrode layout strategy designed to enhance the popular two-dimensional electrical resistivity profile. Offsetting electrodes from the traditional linear layout and using 3-D inversion software allows for mapping the three-dimensional electrical resistivity close to the profile plane. We established a series of synthetic tests using simulated data generated from chosen resistivity distributions with a three-dimensional target feature. All inversions and simulations were conducted using freely-available ERT software, BERT and E4D. Synthetic results demonstrate the effectiveness of the offset electrode approach, whereas the linear layout failed to resolve the three-dimensional character of our subsurface feature. A field survey using trench backfill as a known resistivity contrast confirmed our synthetic tests. As we show, 3-D inversions of linear layouts for starting models without previously known structure are futile ventures because they generate symmetric resistivity solutions with respect to the profile plane. This is a consequence of the layout's inherent symmetrical sensitivity patterns. An offset electrode layout is not subject to the same limitation, as the collective measurements do not share a common sensitivity symmetry. For practitioners, this approach presents a low-cost improvement of a traditional geophysical method which is simple to use yet may provide critical information about the three dimensional structure of the subsurface close to the profile.

  10. Three-dimensional ultrastructural analyses of anterior pituitary gland expose spatial relationships between endocrine cell secretory granule localization and capillary distribution.

    PubMed

    Yoshitomi, Munetake; Ohta, Keisuke; Kanazawa, Tomonoshin; Togo, Akinobu; Hirashima, Shingo; Uemura, Kei-Ichiro; Okayama, Satoko; Morioka, Motohiro; Nakamura, Kei-Ichiro

    2016-10-31

    Endocrine and endothelial cells of the anterior pituitary gland frequently make close appositions or contacts, and the secretory granules of each endocrine cell tend to accumulate at the perivascular regions, which is generally considered to facilitate secretory functions of these cells. However, three-dimensional relationships between the localization pattern of secretory granules and blood vessels are not fully understood. To define and characterize these spatial relationships, we used scanning electron microscopy (SEM) three-dimensional reconstruction method based on focused ion-beam slicing and scanning electron microscopy (FIB/SEM). Full three-dimensional cellular architectures of the anterior pituitary tissue at ultrastructural resolution revealed that about 70% of endocrine cells were in apposition to the endothelial cells, while almost 30% of endocrine cells were entirely isolated from perivascular space in the tissue. Our three-dimensional analyses also visualized the distribution pattern of secretory granules in individual endocrine cells, showing an accumulation of secretory granules in regions in close apposition to the blood vessels in many cases. However, secretory granules in cells isolated from the perivascular region tended to distribute uniformly in the cytoplasm of these cells. These data suggest that the cellular interactions between the endocrine and endothelial cells promote an uneven cytoplasmic distribution of the secretory granules.

  11. Learning an intrinsic-variable preserving manifold for dynamic visual tracking.

    PubMed

    Qiao, Hong; Zhang, Peng; Zhang, Bo; Zheng, Suiwu

    2010-06-01

    Manifold learning is a hot topic in the field of computer science, particularly since nonlinear dimensionality reduction based on manifold learning was proposed in Science in 2000. The work has achieved great success. The main purpose of current manifold-learning approaches is to search for independent intrinsic variables underlying high dimensional inputs which lie on a low dimensional manifold. In this paper, a new manifold is built up in the training step of the process, on which the input training samples are set to be close to each other if the values of their intrinsic variables are close to each other. Then, the process of dimensionality reduction is transformed into a procedure of preserving the continuity of the intrinsic variables. By utilizing the new manifold, the dynamic tracking of a human who can move and rotate freely is achieved. From the theoretical point of view, it is the first approach to transfer the manifold-learning framework to dynamic tracking. From the application point of view, a new and low dimensional feature for visual tracking is obtained and successfully applied to the real-time tracking of a free-moving object from a dynamic vision system. Experimental results from a dynamic tracking system which is mounted on a dynamic robot validate the effectiveness of the new algorithm.

  12. Genetic analysis of tolerance to the root lesion nematode Pratylenchus neglectus in the legume Medicago littoralis

    PubMed Central

    2014-01-01

    Background The nematode Pratylenchus neglectus has a wide host range and is able to feed on the root systems of cereals, oilseeds, grain and pasture legumes. Under the Mediterranean low rainfall environments of Australia, annual Medicago pasture legumes are used in rotation with cereals to fix atmospheric nitrogen and improve soil parameters. Considerable efforts are being made in breeding programs to improve resistance and tolerance to Pratylenchus neglectus in the major crops wheat and barley, which makes it vital to develop appropriate selection tools in medics. Results A strong source of tolerance to root damage by the root lesion nematode (RLN) Pratylenchus neglectus had previously been identified in line RH-1 (strand medic, M. littoralis). Using RH-1, we have developed a single seed descent (SSD) population of 138 lines by crossing it to the intolerant cultivar Herald. After inoculation, RLN-associated root damage clearly segregated in the population. Genetic analysis was performed by constructing a genetic map using simple sequence repeat (SSR) and gene-based SNP markers. A highly significant quantitative trait locus (QTL), QPnTolMl.1, was identified explaining 49% of the phenotypic variation in the SSD population. All SSRs and gene-based markers in the QTL region were derived from chromosome 1 of the sequenced genome of the closely related species M. truncatula. Gene-based markers were validated in advanced breeding lines derived from the RH-1 parent and also a second RLN tolerance source, RH-2 (M. truncatula ssp. tricycla). Comparative analysis to sequenced legume genomes showed that the physical QTL interval exists as a synteny block in Lotus japonicus, common bean, soybean and chickpea. Furthermore, using the sequenced genome information of M. truncatula, the QTL interval contains 55 genes out of which five are discussed as potential candidate genes responsible for the mapped tolerance. Conclusion The closely linked set of SNP-based PCR markers is directly applicable to select for two different sources of RLN tolerance in breeding programs. Moreover, genome sequence information has allowed proposing candidate genes for further functional analysis and nominates QPnTolMl.1 as a target locus for RLN tolerance in economically important grain legumes, e.g. chickpea. PMID:24742262

  13. Fault-tolerance in Two-dimensional Topological Systems

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Anderson, Jonas T.

    This thesis is a collection of ideas with the general goal of building, at least in the abstract, a local fault-tolerant quantum computer. The connection between quantum information and topology has proven to be an active area of research in several fields. The introduction of the toric code by Alexei Kitaev demonstrated the usefulness of topology for quantum memory and quantum computation. Many quantum codes used for quantum memory are modeled by spin systems on a lattice, with operators that extract syndrome information placed on vertices or faces of the lattice. It is natural to wonder whether the useful codes in such systems can be classified. This thesis presents work that leverages ideas from topology and graph theory to explore the space of such codes. Homological stabilizer codes are introduced and it is shown that, under a set of reasonable assumptions, any qubit homological stabilizer code is equivalent to either a toric code or a color code. Additionally, the toric code and the color code correspond to distinct classes of graphs. Many systems have been proposed as candidate quantum computers. It is very desirable to design quantum computing architectures with two-dimensional layouts and low complexity in parity-checking circuitry. Kitaev's surface codes provided the first example of codes satisfying this property. They provided a new route to fault tolerance with more modest overheads and thresholds approaching 1%. The recently discovered color codes share many properties with the surface codes, such as the ability to perform syndrome extraction locally in two dimensions. Some families of color codes admit a transversal implementation of the entire Clifford group. This work investigates color codes on the 4.8.8 lattice known as triangular codes. I develop a fault-tolerant error-correction strategy for these codes in which repeated syndrome measurements on this lattice generate a three-dimensional space-time combinatorial structure. I then develop an integer program that analyzes this structure and determines the most likely set of errors consistent with the observed syndrome values. I implement this integer program to find the threshold for depolarizing noise on small versions of these triangular codes. Because the threshold for magic-state distillation is likely to be higher than this value and because logical CNOT gates can be performed by code deformation in a single block instead of between pairs of blocks, the threshold for fault-tolerant quantum memory for these codes is also the threshold for fault-tolerant quantum computation with them. Since the advent of a threshold theorem for quantum computers much has been improved upon. Thresholds have increased, architectures have become more local, and gate sets have been simplified. The overhead for magic-state distillation has been studied, but not nearly to the extent of the aforementioned topics. A method for greatly reducing this overhead, known as reusable magic states, is studied here. While examples of reusable magic states exist for Clifford gates, I give strong reasons to believe they do not exist for non-Clifford gates.

  14. On the use of adaptive multiresolution method with time-varying tolerance for compressible fluid flows

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Soni, V.; Hadjadj, A.; Roussel, O.

    2017-12-01

    In this paper, a fully adaptive multiresolution (MR) finite difference scheme with a time-varying tolerance is developed to study compressible fluid flows containing shock waves in interaction with solid obstacles. To ensure adequate resolution near rigid bodies, the MR algorithm is combined with an immersed boundary method based on a direct-forcing approach in which the solid object is represented by a continuous solid-volume fraction. The resulting algorithm forms an efficient tool capable of solving linear and nonlinear waves on arbitrary geometries. Through a one-dimensional scalar wave equation, the accuracy of the MR computation is, as expected, seen to decrease in time when using a constant MR tolerance considering the accumulation of error. To overcome this problem, a variable tolerance formulation is proposed, which is assessed through a new quality criterion, to ensure a time-convergence solution for a suitable quality resolution. The newly developed algorithm coupled with high-resolution spatial and temporal approximations is successfully applied to shock-bluff body and shock-diffraction problems solving Euler and Navier-Stokes equations. Results show excellent agreement with the available numerical and experimental data, thereby demonstrating the efficiency and the performance of the proposed method.

  15. A proteome analysis of freezing tolerance in red clover (Trifolium pratense L.).

    PubMed

    Bertrand, Annick; Bipfubusa, Marie; Castonguay, Yves; Rocher, Solen; Szopinska-Morawska, Aleksandra; Papadopoulos, Yousef; Renaut, Jenny

    2016-03-10

    Improvement of freezing tolerance of red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) would increase its persistence under cold climate. In this study, we assessed the freezing tolerance and compared the proteome composition of non-acclimated and cold-acclimated plants of two initial cultivars of red clover: Endure (E-TF0) and Christie (C-TF0) and of populations issued from these cultivars after three (TF3) and four (TF4) cycles of phenotypic recurrent selection for superior freezing tolerance. Through this approach, we wanted to identify proteins that are associated with the improvement of freezing tolerance in red clover. Freezing tolerance expressed as the lethal temperature for 50 % of the plants (LT50) increased markedly from approximately -2 to -16 °C following cold acclimation. Recurrent selection allowed a significant 2 to 3 °C increase of the LT50 after four cycles of recurrent selection. Two-dimensional difference gel electrophoresis (2D-DIGE) was used to study variations in protein abundance. Principal component analysis based on 2D-DIGE revealed that the largest variability in the protein data set was attributable to the cold acclimation treatment and that the two genetic backgrounds had differential protein composition in the acclimated state only. Vegetative storage proteins (VSP), which are essential nitrogen reserves for plant regrowth, and dehydrins were among the most striking changes in proteome composition of cold acclimated crowns of red clovers. A subset of proteins varied in abundance in response to selection including a dehydrin that increased in abundance in TF3 and TF4 populations as compared to TF0 in the Endure background. Recurrent selection performed indoor is an effective approach to improve the freezing tolerance of red clover. Significant improvement of freezing tolerance by recurrent selection was associated with differential accumulation of a small number of cold-regulated proteins that may play an important role in the determination of the level of freezing tolerance.

  16. Linking fish tolerance to water quality criteria for the assessment of environmental flows: A practical method for streamflow regulation and pollution control.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Changsen; Yang, Shengtian; Liu, Junguo; Liu, Changming; Hao, Fanghua; Wang, Zhonggen; Zhang, Huitong; Song, Jinxi; Mitrovic, Simon M; Lim, Richard P

    2018-05-15

    The survival of aquatic biota in stream ecosystems depends on both water quantity and quality, and is particularly susceptible to degraded water quality in regulated rivers. Maintenance of environmental flows (e-flows) for aquatic biota with optimum water quantity and quality is essential for sustainable ecosystem services, especially in developing regions with insufficient stream monitoring of hydrology, water quality and aquatic biota. Few e-flow methods are available that closely link aquatic biota tolerances to pollutant concentrations in a simple and practical manner. In this paper a new method was proposed to assess e-flows that aimed to satisfy the requirements of aquatic biota for both the quantity and quality of the streamflow by linking fish tolerances to water quality criteria, or the allowable concentration of pollutants. For better operation of water projects and control of pollutants discharged into streams, this paper presented two coefficients for streamflow adjustment and pollutant control. Assessment of e-flows in the Wei River, the largest tributary of the Yellow River, shows that streamflow in dry seasons failed to meet e-flow requirements. Pollutant influx exerted a large pressure on the aquatic ecosystem, with pollutant concentrations much higher than that of the fish tolerance thresholds. We found that both flow velocity and water temperature exerted great influences on the pollutant degradation rate. Flow velocity had a much greater influence on pollutant degradation than did the standard deviation of flow velocity. This study provides new methods to closely link the tolerance of aquatic biota to water quality criteria for e-flow assessment. The recommended coefficients for streamflow adjustment and pollutant control, to dynamically regulate streamflow and control pollutant discharge, are helpful for river management and ecosystems rehabilitation. The relatively low data requirement also makes the method easy to use efficiently in developing regions, and thus this study has significant implications for managing flows in polluted and regulated rivers worldwide. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  17. Vibration isolation technology: Sensitivity of selected classes of experiments to residual accelerations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Alexander, J. Iwan D.

    1991-01-01

    Work was completed on all aspects of the following tasks: order of magnitude estimates; thermo-capillary convection - two-dimensional (fixed planar surface); thermo-capillary convection - three-dimensional and axisymmetric; liquid bridge/floating zone sensitivity; transport in closed containers; interaction: design and development stages; interaction: testing flight hardware; and reporting. Results are included in the Appendices.

  18. Transition density of one-dimensional diffusion with discontinuous drift

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Zhang, Weijian

    1990-01-01

    The transition density of a one-dimensional diffusion process with a discontinuous drift coefficient is studied. A probabilistic representation of the transition density is given, illustrating the close connections between discontinuities of the drift and Brownian local times. In addition, some explicit results are obtained based on the trivariate density of Brownian motion, its occupation, and local times.

  19. Asymptotic Behaviour of Solitons with a Double Spectral Parameter for the Bogomolny Equation in (2+1)-Dimensional Anti de Sitter Space

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ji, Xue-Feng; Zhou, Zi-Xiang

    2005-07-01

    The asymptotic behaviour of the solitons with a double spectral parameter for the Bogomolny equation in (2+1)-dimensional anti de Sitter space is obtained. The asymptotic solution has two ridges close to each other which locates beside the geodesic of the Poincaré half-plane.

  20. Plan for the Characterization of HIRF Effects on a Fault-Tolerant Computer Communication System

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Torres-Pomales, Wilfredo; Malekpour, Mahyar R.; Miner, Paul S.; Koppen, Sandra V.

    2008-01-01

    This report presents the plan for the characterization of the effects of high intensity radiated fields on a prototype implementation of a fault-tolerant data communication system. Various configurations of the communication system will be tested. The prototype system is implemented using off-the-shelf devices. The system will be tested in a closed-loop configuration with extensive real-time monitoring. This test is intended to generate data suitable for the design of avionics health management systems, as well as redundancy management mechanisms and policies for robust distributed processing architectures.

  1. The impact of acute lymphocytic leukemia on diabetic retinopathy.

    PubMed

    Melberg, N S; Grand, M G; Rup, D

    1995-02-01

    A 16 year-old girl with a 9-year history of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus developed acute lymphocytic leukemia. The patient's vision deteriorated from normal to legal blindness within 6 months as her ophthalmologic examination progressed from minimal background diabetic retinopathy to severe proliferative diabetic retinopathy. The accelerated course of diabetic eye disease is attributable to the moderate anemia resulting from the leukemia and its treatment. Although anemia is usually well tolerated by young patients, it is not well tolerated by the diabetic retina. Diabetic patients require close ophthalmologic follow-up and aggressive management to maintain normal hemoglobin levels.

  2. The Giga Bit Transceiver based Expandable Front-End (GEFE)—a new radiation tolerant acquisition system for beam instrumentation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Barros Marin, M.; Boccardi, A.; Donat Godichal, C.; Gonzalez, J. L.; Lefevre, T.; Levens, T.; Szuk, B.

    2016-02-01

    The Giga Bit Transceiver based Expandable Front-End (GEFE) is a multi-purpose FPGA-based radiation tolerant card. It is foreseen to be the new standard FMC carrier for digital front-end applications in the CERN BE-BI group. Its intended use ranges from fast data acquisition systems to slow control installed close to the beamlines, in a radioactive environment exposed to total ionizing doses of up to 750 Gy. This paper introduces the architecture of the GEFE, its features as well as examples of its application in different setups.

  3. Fractional-dimensional Child-Langmuir law for a rough cathode

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

    Zubair, M., E-mail: muhammad-zubair@sutd.edu.sg; Ang, L. K., E-mail: ricky-ang@sutd.edu.sg

    This work presents a self-consistent model of space charge limited current transport in a gap combined of free-space and fractional-dimensional space (F{sup α}), where α is the fractional dimension in the range 0 < α ≤ 1. In this approach, a closed-form fractional-dimensional generalization of Child-Langmuir (CL) law is derived in classical regime which is then used to model the effect of cathode surface roughness in a vacuum diode by replacing the rough cathode with a smooth cathode placed in a layer of effective fractional-dimensional space. Smooth transition of CL law from the fractional-dimensional to integer-dimensional space is also demonstrated. The model has beenmore » validated by comparing results with an experiment.« less

  4. Continuum modeling of three-dimensional truss-like space structures

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Nayfeh, A. H.; Hefzy, M. S.

    1978-01-01

    A mathematical and computational analysis capability has been developed for calculating the effective mechanical properties of three-dimensional periodic truss-like structures. Two models are studied in detail. The first, called the octetruss model, is a three-dimensional extension of a two-dimensional model, and the second is a cubic model. Symmetry considerations are employed as a first step to show that the specific octetruss model has four independent constants and that the cubic model has two. The actual values of these constants are determined by averaging the contributions of each rod element to the overall structure stiffness. The individual rod member contribution to the overall stiffness is obtained by a three-dimensional coordinate transformation. The analysis shows that the effective three-dimensional elastic properties of both models are relatively close to each other.

  5. Immune modulation enables a specialist insect to benefit from antibacterial withanolides in its host plant

    PubMed Central

    Barthel, Andrea; Vogel, Heiko; Pauchet, Yannick; Pauls, Gerhard; Kunert, Grit; Groot, Astrid T.; Boland, Wilhelm; Heckel, David G.; Heidel-Fischer, Hanna M.

    2016-01-01

    The development of novel plant chemical defenses and counter adaptations by herbivorous insect could continually drive speciation, producing more insect specialists than generalists. One approach to test this hypothesis is to compare closely related generalist and specialist species to reveal the associated costs and benefits of these different adaptive strategies. We use the specialized moth Heliothis subflexa, which feeds exclusively on plants in the genus Physalis, and its close generalist relative H. virescens. Specialization on Physalis plants necessitates the ability to tolerate withanolides, the secondary metabolites of Physalis species that are known to have feeding deterrent and immune inhibiting properties for other insects. Here we find that only H. subflexa benefits from the antibacterial properties of withanolides, and thereby gains a higher tolerance of the pathogen Bacillus thuringiensis. We argue that the specialization in H. subflexa has been guided to a large extent by a unique role of plant chemistry on ecological immunology. PMID:27561781

  6. Dimensional control of die castings

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Karve, Aniruddha Ajit

    The demand for net shape die castings, which require little or no machining, is steadily increasing. Stringent customer requirements are forcing die casters to deliver high quality castings in increasingly short lead times. Dimensional conformance to customer specifications is an inherent part of die casting quality. The dimensional attributes of a die casting are essentially dependent upon many factors--the quality of the die and the degree of control over the process variables being the two major sources of dimensional error in die castings. This study focused on investigating the nature and the causes of dimensional error in die castings. The two major components of dimensional error i.e., dimensional variability and die allowance were studied. The major effort of this study was to qualitatively and quantitatively study the effects of casting geometry and process variables on die casting dimensional variability and die allowance. This was accomplished by detailed dimensional data collection at production die casting sites. Robust feature characterization schemes were developed to describe complex casting geometry in quantitative terms. Empirical modeling was utilized to quantify the effects of the casting variables on dimensional variability and die allowance for die casting features. A number of casting geometry and process variables were found to affect dimensional variability in die castings. The dimensional variability was evaluated by comparisons with current published dimensional tolerance standards. The casting geometry was found to play a significant role in influencing the die allowance of the features measured. The predictive models developed for dimensional variability and die allowance were evaluated to test their effectiveness. Finally, the relative impact of all the components of dimensional error in die castings was put into perspective, and general guidelines for effective dimensional control in the die casting plant were laid out. The results of this study will contribute to enhancement of dimensional quality and lead time compression in the die casting industry, thus making it competitive with other net shape manufacturing processes.

  7. Recovering a full dimensional quantum rate constant from a reduced dimensionality calculation: Application to the OH+CO{r_arrow}H+CO{sub 2} reaction

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

    Dzegilenko, F.N.; Bowman, J.M.

    1996-08-01

    Two reduced dimensionality theories are used to calculate the thermal rate constant for the OH+CO{r_arrow}H+CO{sub 2} reaction. The standard theory employs energy-shift approximations to extract the full six degree-of-freedom quantum rate constant for this reaction from the previous two degree-of-freedom (2-DOF) quantum calculations of Hernandez and Clary [M.I. Hernandez and D.C. Clary, J. Chem. Phys. {bold 101}, 2779 (1994)]. Three extra bending modes and one extra {open_quote}{open_quote}spectator{close_quote}{close_quote} CO stretch mode are treated adiabatically in the harmonic fashion. The parameters of the exit channel transition state are used to evaluate the frequencies of those additional modes. A new reduced dimensionality theorymore » is also applied to this reaction. This theory explicitly addresses the finding from the 2-DOF calculations that the reaction proceeds mainly via complex formation. A J-shifting approximation has been used to take into account the initial states with non-zero values of total angular momentum in both reduced dimensionality theories. Cumulative reaction probabilities and thermal rate constants are calculated and compared with the previous quasiclassical and reduced dimensionality quantum calculations and with experiment. The rate constant from the new reduced dimensionality theory is between a factor of 5 and 100 times smaller than the statistical transition state theory result, and is in much better agreement with experiment. {copyright} {ital 1996 American Institute of Physics.}« less

  8. Durum wheat dehydrin (DHN-5) confers salinity tolerance to transgenic Arabidopsis plants through the regulation of proline metabolism and ROS scavenging system.

    PubMed

    Saibi, Walid; Feki, Kaouthar; Ben Mahmoud, Rihem; Brini, Faiçal

    2015-11-01

    The wheat dehydrin (DHN-5) gives birth to salinity tolerance to transgenic Arabidopsis plants by the regulation of proline metabolism and the ROS scavenging system. Dehydrins (DHNs) are involved in plant abiotic stress tolerance. In this study, we reported that salt tolerance of transgenic Arabidopsis plants overexpressing durum wheat dehydrin (DHN-5) was closely related to the activation of the proline metabolism enzyme (P5CS) and some antioxidant biocatalysts. Indeed, DHN-5 improved P5CS activity in the transgenic plants generating a significant proline accumulation. Moreover, salt tolerance of Arabidopsis transgenic plants was accompanied by an excellent activation of antioxidant enzymes like catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxide dismutase (POD) and generation of a lower level of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in leaves compared to the wild-type plants. The enzyme activities were enhanced in these transgenic plants in the presence of exogenous proline. Nevertheless, proline accumulation was slightly reduced in transgenic plants promoting chlorophyll levels. All these results suggest the crucial role of DHN-5 in response to salt stress through the activation of enzymes implicated in proline metabolism and in ROS scavenging enzymes.

  9. OsPRX2 contributes to stomatal closure and improves potassium deficiency tolerance in rice.

    PubMed

    Mao, Xiaohui; Zheng, Yanmei; Xiao, Kaizhuan; Wei, Yidong; Zhu, Yongsheng; Cai, Qiuhua; Chen, Liping; Xie, Huaan; Zhang, Jianfu

    2018-01-01

    Peroxiredoxins (Prxs) which are thiol-based peroxidases have been implicated in the toxic reduction and intracellular concentration regulation of hydrogen peroxide. In Arabidopsis thaliana At2-CysPrxB (At5g06290) has been demonstrated to be essential in maintaining the water-water cycle for proper H 2 O 2 scavenging. Although the mechanisms of 2-Cys Prxs have been extensively studied in Arabidopsis thaliana, the function of 2-Cys Prxs in rice is unclear. In this study, a rice homologue gene of At2-CysPrxB, OsPRX2 was investigated aiming to characterize the effect of 2-Cys Prxs on the K + -deficiency tolerance in rice. We found that OsPRX2 was localized in the chloroplast. Overexpressed OsPRX2 causes the stomatal closing and K + -deficiency tolerance increasing, while knockout of OsPRX2 lead to serious defects in leaves phenotype and the stomatal opening under the K + -deficiency tolerance. Detection of K + accumulation, antioxidant activity of transgenic plants under the starvation of potassium, further confirmed that OsPRX2 is a potential target for engineering plants with improved potassium deficiency tolerance. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  10. Applications of a damage tolerance analysis methodology in aircraft design and production

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Woodward, M. R.; Owens, S. D.; Law, G. E.; Mignery, L. A.

    1992-01-01

    Objectives of customer mandated aircraft structural integrity initiatives in design are to guide material selection, to incorporate fracture resistant concepts in the design, to utilize damage tolerance based allowables and planned inspection procedures necessary to enhance the safety and reliability of manned flight vehicles. However, validated fracture analysis tools for composite structures are needed to accomplish these objectives in a timely and economical manner. This paper briefly describes the development, validation, and application of a damage tolerance methodology for composite airframe structures. A closed-form analysis code, entitled SUBLAM was developed to predict the critical biaxial strain state necessary to cause sublaminate buckling-induced delamination extension in an impact damaged composite laminate. An embedded elliptical delamination separating a thin sublaminate from a thick parent laminate is modelled. Predicted failure strains were correlated against a variety of experimental data that included results from compression after impact coupon and element tests. An integrated analysis package was developed to predict damage tolerance based margin-of-safety (MS) using NASTRAN generated loads and element information. Damage tolerance aspects of new concepts are quickly and cost-effectively determined without the need for excessive testing.

  11. Biochemical, physiological and molecular evaluation of rice cultivars differing in salt tolerance at the seedling stage.

    PubMed

    Kordrostami, Mojtaba; Rabiei, Babak; Hassani Kumleh, Hassan

    2017-07-01

    Changes in the antioxidant enzymes, lipid peroxidation, sodium and potassium, chlorophyll, H 2 O 2 and proline content were monitored in the leaves of 42 rice varieties which were not yet well-documented for the salinity tolerance under different salinity levels. The tolerant varieties (FL478, Hassani, Shahpasand, Gharib and Nemat) showed signs of tolerance (lower Na + /K + ratio, high proline accumulation, less membrane damage, lower H 2 O 2 production, and higher superoxide dismutase and catalase activity) very well. The positive relationship between the level of salt tolerance and the amount of proline accumulation in the rice varieties support the important role of proline under the salt stress. The varieties were genotyped for 12 microsatellite markers that were closely linked to SalTol QTL. The results of association analysis indicated that RM1287, RM8094, RM3412 and AP3206 markers had the high value of R 2 for the regression models of the studied traits. It shows the important role of SalTol in controlling physio-biochemical traits. The results can be used in the future marker assisted selection (MAS) directly, if the results are confirmed.

  12. Maternal and paternal emotional contributions to children's distress tolerance: Relations to child depressive symptoms.

    PubMed

    Doan, Stacey N; Son, Heimi; Kim, Lawrence N

    2018-06-08

    In recent years, empirical studies have shown that the inability to tolerate distress is associated with a wide range of negative outcomes including eating addiction, drug abuse, alcohol use, and antisocial behavior in adults. However, few studies have examined family correlates of this ability in children. Also, past literature on child emotional competencies has mainly focused on documenting the linkages between mother and child and has neglected the role of fathers. Children (N = 54, M age = 10.15 years, SD = 1.02; 55.6% males) and their parents participated. Parents reported on their emotion regulation strategies and children reported on their depressive symptoms. Distress tolerance (DT) was assessed using the computerized distress tolerance task, the Behavioral Indicator of Resiliency to Distress. Children who were able to complete the BIRD had lower levels of depression. Analyses examining relations among father and mother emotion regulation and children's DT showed children's DT is more closely related to their mothers' than fathers' emotion regulation styles. These findings suggest that DT is an important construct in understanding children's psychopathology, but also that maternal emotion regulation is associated with children's distress tolerance. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  13. Disjointness of Stabilizer Codes and Limitations on Fault-Tolerant Logical Gates

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jochym-O'Connor, Tomas; Kubica, Aleksander; Yoder, Theodore J.

    2018-04-01

    Stabilizer codes are among the most successful quantum error-correcting codes, yet they have important limitations on their ability to fault tolerantly compute. Here, we introduce a new quantity, the disjointness of the stabilizer code, which, roughly speaking, is the number of mostly nonoverlapping representations of any given nontrivial logical Pauli operator. The notion of disjointness proves useful in limiting transversal gates on any error-detecting stabilizer code to a finite level of the Clifford hierarchy. For code families, we can similarly restrict logical operators implemented by constant-depth circuits. For instance, we show that it is impossible, with a constant-depth but possibly geometrically nonlocal circuit, to implement a logical non-Clifford gate on the standard two-dimensional surface code.

  14. High Speed, High Temperature, Fault Tolerant Operation of a Combination Magnetic-Hydrostatic Bearing Rotor Support System for Turbomachinery

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Jansen, Mark; Montague, Gerald; Provenza, Andrew; Palazzolo, Alan

    2004-01-01

    Closed loop operation of a single, high temperature magnetic radial bearing to 30,000 RPM (2.25 million DN) and 540 C (1000 F) is discussed. Also, high temperature, fault tolerant operation for the three axis system is examined. A novel, hydrostatic backup bearing system was employed to attain high speed, high temperature, lubrication free support of the entire rotor system. The hydrostatic bearings were made of a high lubricity material and acted as journal-type backup bearings. New, high temperature displacement sensors were successfully employed to monitor shaft position throughout the entire temperature range and are described in this paper. Control of the system was accomplished through a stand alone, high speed computer controller and it was used to run both the fault-tolerant PID and active vibration control algorithms.

  15. Adaptive sensor-fault tolerant control for a class of multivariable uncertain nonlinear systems.

    PubMed

    Khebbache, Hicham; Tadjine, Mohamed; Labiod, Salim; Boulkroune, Abdesselem

    2015-03-01

    This paper deals with the active fault tolerant control (AFTC) problem for a class of multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) uncertain nonlinear systems subject to sensor faults and external disturbances. The proposed AFTC method can tolerate three additive (bias, drift and loss of accuracy) and one multiplicative (loss of effectiveness) sensor faults. By employing backstepping technique, a novel adaptive backstepping-based AFTC scheme is developed using the fact that sensor faults and system uncertainties (including external disturbances and unexpected nonlinear functions caused by sensor faults) can be on-line estimated and compensated via robust adaptive schemes. The stability analysis of the closed-loop system is rigorously proven using a Lyapunov approach. The effectiveness of the proposed controller is illustrated by two simulation examples. Copyright © 2014 ISA. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  16. Dimensional regularization in position space and a Forest Formula for Epstein-Glaser renormalization

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dütsch, Michael; Fredenhagen, Klaus; Keller, Kai Johannes; Rejzner, Katarzyna

    2014-12-01

    We reformulate dimensional regularization as a regularization method in position space and show that it can be used to give a closed expression for the renormalized time-ordered products as solutions to the induction scheme of Epstein-Glaser. This closed expression, which we call the Epstein-Glaser Forest Formula, is analogous to Zimmermann's Forest Formula for BPH renormalization. For scalar fields, the resulting renormalization method is always applicable, we compute several examples. We also analyze the Hopf algebraic aspects of the combinatorics. Our starting point is the Main Theorem of Renormalization of Stora and Popineau and the arising renormalization group as originally defined by Stückelberg and Petermann.

  17. Eddy current probe response to open and closed surface flaws

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Auld, B. A.; Muennemann, F.; Winslow, D. K.

    1981-01-01

    A general analysis of eddy current response to certain types of open and closed surface flaws is presented for both standard low-frequency and ferromagnetic-resonance (FMR) probes. It is shown analytically that for two-dimensional and three-dimensional surface flaws interrogated by a uniform probe field, the crack opening sensitivity increases with the operating frequency of the probe, this behavior being due to the Faraday induction effect. Experiments with low-frequency probes operating at or below 1 MHz and with the FMR probe operating at approximately 1000 MHz confirm this increase of the crack mouth opening displacement for practical situations where the probe field is not uniform in the vicinity of the flaw.

  18. The effects of cold acclimation on photosynthetic apparatus and the expression of COR14b in four genotypes of barley (Hordeum vulgare) contrasting in their tolerance to freezing and high-light treatment in cold conditions.

    PubMed

    Rapacz, Marcin; Wolanin, Barbara; Hura, Katarzyna; Tyrka, Miroslaw

    2008-04-01

    Cold acclimation modifies the balance of the energy absorbed and metabolized in the dark processes of photosynthesis, which may affect the expression of cold-regulated (COR) genes. At the same time, a gradual acclimation to the relatively high light conditions is observed, thereby minimizing the potential for photo-oxidative damage. As a result, the resistance to photoinhibition in the cold has often been identified as a trait closely related to freezing tolerance. Using four barley genotypes that differentially express both traits, the effect of cold acclimation on freezing tolerance and high-light tolerance was studied together with the expression of COR14b, one of the best-characterized barley COR genes. Plants were cold acclimated for 2 weeks at 2 degrees C. Freezing tolerance was studied by means of electrolyte leakage. Changes in photosynthetic apparatus and high-light tolerance were monitored by means of chlorophyll fluorescence. Accumulation of COR14b and some proteins important in photosynthetic acclimation to cold were studied with western analysis. COR14b transcript accumulation during cold acclimation was assessed with real-time PCR. Cold acclimation increased both freezing tolerance and high-light tolerance, especially when plants were treated with high light after non-lethal freezing. In all plants, cold acclimation triggered the increase in photosynthetic capacity during high-light treatment. In two plants that were characterized by higher high-light tolerance but lower freezing tolerance, higher accumulation of COR14b transcript and protein was observed after 7 d and 14 d of cold acclimation, while a higher transient induction of COR14b expression was observed in freezing-tolerant plants during the first day of cold acclimation. High-light tolerant plants were also characterized with a higher level of PsbS accumulation and more efficient dissipation of excess light energy. Accumulation of COR14b in barley seems to be important for resistance to combined freezing and high-light tolerance, but not for freezing tolerance per se.

  19. Abnormal glucose tolerance post-gestational diabetes mellitus as defined by the International Association of Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Groups criteria.

    PubMed

    Noctor, Eoin; Crowe, Catherine; Carmody, Louise A; Saunders, Jean A; Kirwan, Breda; O'Dea, Angela; Gillespie, Paddy; Glynn, Liam G; McGuire, Brian E; O'Neill, Ciarán; O'Shea, P M; Dunne, F P

    2016-10-01

    An increase in gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) prevalence has been demonstrated across many countries with adoption of the International Association of the Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Groups (IADPSG) diagnostic criteria. Here, we determine the cumulative incidence of abnormal glucose tolerance among women with previous GDM, and identify clinical risk factors predicting this. Two hundred and seventy women with previous IADPSG-defined GDM were prospectively followed up for 5years (mean 2.6) post-index pregnancy, and compared with 388 women with normal glucose tolerance (NGT) in pregnancy. Cumulative incidence of abnormal glucose tolerance (using American Diabetes Association criteria for impaired fasting glucose, impaired glucose tolerance and diabetes) was determined using the Kaplan-Meier method of survival analysis. Cox regression models were constructed to test for factors predicting abnormal glucose tolerance. Twenty-six percent of women with previous GDM had abnormal glucose tolerance vs 4% with NGT, with the log-rank test demonstrating significantly different survival curves (P<0.001). Women meeting IADPSG, but not the World Health Organization (WHO) 1999 criteria, had a lower cumulative incidence than women meeting both sets of criteria, both in the early post-partum period (4.2% vs 21.7%, P<0.001) and at longer-term follow-up (13.7% vs 32.6%, P<0.001). Predictive factors were glucose levels on the pregnancy oral glucose tolerance test, family history of diabetes, gestational week at testing, and BMI at follow-up. The proportion of women developing abnormal glucose tolerance remains high among those with IADPSG-defined GDM. This demonstrates the need for continued close follow-up, although the optimal frequency and method needs further study. © 2016 European Society of Endocrinology.

  20. Classification of genetic variation for cadmium tolerance in Bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.] using physiological traits and molecular markers.

    PubMed

    Xie, Yan; Luo, Hongji; Hu, Longxing; Sun, Xiaoyan; Lou, Yanhong; Fu, Jinmin

    2014-08-01

    Cadmium (Cd) is one of the most toxic pollutants that caused severe threats to animal and human health. Bermudagrass is a dominant species in Cd contaminated soils, which can prevent Cd flow and spread. The objectives of this study were to determine the genetic variations in major physiological traits related to Cd tolerance in six populations of Bermudagrass collected from China, and to examine the genetic diversity and relationships among these accessions that vary in Cd tolerance using molecular markers. Plants of 120 accessions (116 natural accessions and 4 commercial cultivars) were exposed to 0 (i.e. control) or 1.5 mM CdSO4·8/3H2O for 3 weeks in hydroponic culture. Turf quality, transpiration rate, chlorophyll content, leaf water content and growth rate showed wide phenotypic variation. The membership function method was used to comprehensively evaluate Cd-tolerance. According to the average subordinate function value, four accessions were classified as the most tolerant genotypes and four accessions as Cd-sensitive genotypes. The trend of Cd tolerance among the six studied populations was as follows: Hunan > South China > North China > Central China > West South China and Xinjiang population. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the majority of accessions from the same or adjacent regions were clustered into the same groups or subgroups, and the accessions with similar cadmium tolerance displayed a close phylogenetic relationship. Screening genetically diverse germplasm by combining the physiological traits and molecular markers could prove useful in developing Cd-tolerant Bermudagrass for the remediation of mill tailings and heavy metal polluted soils.

  1. Simple model of the indirect compression of targets under conditions close to the national ignition facility at an energy of 1.5 MJ

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

    Rozanov, V. B., E-mail: rozanov@sci.lebedev.ru; Vergunova, G. A., E-mail: verg@sci.lebedev.ru

    2015-11-15

    The possibility of the analysis and interpretation of the reported experiments with the megajoule National Ignition Facility (NIF) laser on the compression of capsules in indirect-irradiation targets by means of the one-dimensional RADIAN program in the spherical geometry has been studied. The problem of the energy balance in a target and the determination of the laser energy that should be used in the spherical model of the target has been considered. The results of action of pulses differing in energy and time profile (“low-foot” and “high-foot” regimes) have been analyzed. The parameters of the compression of targets with a high-densitymore » carbon ablator have been obtained. The results of the simulations are in satisfactory agreement with the measurements and correspond to the range of the observed parameters. The set of compared results can be expanded, in particular, for a more detailed determination of the parameters of a target near the maximum compression of the capsule. The physical foundation of the possibility of using the one-dimensional description is the necessity of the closeness of the last stage of the compression of the capsule to a one-dimensional process. The one-dimensional simulation of the compression of the capsule can be useful in establishing the boundary behind which two-dimensional and three-dimensional simulation should be used.« less

  2. Synthesis of three-dimensionally ordered macro-/mesoporous Pt with high electrocatalytic activity by a dual-templating approach

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Chengwei; Yang, Hui; Sun, Tingting; Shan, Nannan; Chen, Jianfeng; Xu, Lianbin; Yan, Yushan

    2014-01-01

    Three dimensionally ordered macro-/mesoporous (3DOM/m) Pt catalysts are fabricated by chemical reduction employing a dual-templating synthesis approach combining both colloidal crystal (opal) templating (hard-templating) and lyotropic liquid crystal templating (soft-templating) techniques. The macropore walls of the prepared 3DOM/m Pt exhibit a uniform mesoporous structure composed of polycrystalline Pt nanoparticles. Both the size of the mesopores and Pt nanocrystallites are in the range of 3-5 nm. The 3DOM/m Pt catalyst shows a larger electrochemically active surface area (ECSA), and higher catalytic activity as well as better poisoning tolerance for methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) than the commercial Pt black catalyst.

  3. Generalized Heisenberg Algebras, SUSYQM and Degeneracies: Infinite Well and Morse Potential

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hussin, Véronique; Marquette, Ian

    2011-03-01

    We consider classical and quantum one and two-dimensional systems with ladder operators that satisfy generalized Heisenberg algebras. In the classical case, this construction is related to the existence of closed trajectories. In particular, we apply these results to the infinite well and Morse potentials. We discuss how the degeneracies of the permutation symmetry of quantum two-dimensional systems can be explained using products of ladder operators. These products satisfy interesting commutation relations. The two-dimensional Morse quantum system is also related to a generalized two-dimensional Morse supersymmetric model. Arithmetical or accidental degeneracies of such system are shown to be associated to additional supersymmetry.

  4. 75 FR 14605 - National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases; Notice of Closed Meeting

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-03-26

    ... DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES National Institutes of Health National Institute of... Infectious Diseases Special Emphasis Panel; Non-Human Primate Heart/Lung Transplantation Tolerance. Date... Federal Domestic Assistance Program Nos. 93.855, Allergy, Immunology, and Transplantation Research; 93.856...

  5. Effects of the closing speed of stapler jaws on bovine pancreases.

    PubMed

    Chikamoto, Akira; Hashimoto, Daisuke; Ikuta, Yoshiaki; Tsuji, Akira; Abe, Shinya; Hayashi, Hiromitsu; Imai, Katsunori; Nitta, Hidetoshi; Ishiko, Takatoshi; Watanabe, Masayuki; Beppu, Toru; Baba, Hideo

    2014-01-01

    The division of the pancreatic parenchyma using a stapler is important in pancreatic surgery, especially for laparoscopic surgery. However, this procedure has not yet been standardized. We analyzed the effects of the closing speed of stapler jaws using bovine pancreases for each method. Furthermore, we assigned 10 min to the slow compression method, 5 min to the medium-fast compression method, and 30 s to the rapid compression (RC) method. The time allotted to holding (3 min) and dividing (30 s) was equal under each testing situation. We found that the RC method showed a high-pressure tolerance compared with the other two groups (rapid, 126 ± 49.0 mmHg; medium-fast, 55.5 ± 25.8 mmHg; slow, 45.0 ± 15.7 mmHg; p < 0.01), although the histological findings of the cut end were similar. The histological findings of the pancreatic capsule and parenchyma after the compression by staple jaws without firing also were similar. RC may provide an advantage as measured by pressure tolerance. A small series of distal pancreatectomy with a stapler that compares the speed of different stapler jaw closing times is required to prove the feasibility of these results after the confirmation of the advantages of the RC method under various settings.

  6. Comparing the Robustness of High-Frequency Traveling-Wave Tube Slow-Wave Circuits

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Chevalier, Christine T.; Wilson, Jeffrey D.; Kory, Carol L.

    2007-01-01

    A three-dimensional electromagnetic field simulation software package was used to compute the cold-test parameters, phase velocity, on-axis interaction impedance, and attenuation, for several high-frequency traveling-wave tube slow-wave circuit geometries. This research effort determined the effects of variations in circuit dimensions on cold-test performance. The parameter variations were based on the tolerances of conventional micromachining techniques.

  7. Energy-momentum restrictions on the creation of Gott time machines

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Carroll, Sean M.; Farhi, Edward; Guth, Alan H.; Olum, Ken D.

    1994-11-01

    The discovery by Gott of a remarkably simple spacetime with closed timelike curves (CTC's) provides a tool for investigating how the creation of time machines is prevented in classical general relativity. The Gott spacetime contains two infinitely long, parallel cosmic strings, which can equivalently be viewed as point masses in (2+1)-dimensional gravity. We examine the possibility of building such a time machine in an open universe. Specifically, we consider initial data specified on an edgeless, noncompact, spacelike hypersurface, for which the total momentum is timelike (i.e., not the momentum of a Gott spacetime). In contrast to the case of a closed universe (in which Gott pairs, although not CTC's, can be produced from the decay of stationary particles), we find that there is never enough energy for a Gott-like time machine to evolve from the specified data; it is impossible to accelerate two particles to a sufficiently high velocity. Thus, the no-CTC theorems of Tipler and Hawking are enforced in an open (2+1)-dimensional universe by a mechanism different from that which operates in a closed universe. In proving our result, we develop a simple method to understand the inequalities that restrict the result of combining momenta in (2+1)-dimensional gravity.

  8. Resolving the 3D spatial orientation of helix I in the closed state of the colicin E1 channel domain by FRET. Insights into the integration mechanism.

    PubMed

    Lugo, Miguel R; Ho, Derek; Merrill, A Rod

    2016-10-15

    Current evidence suggests that the closed-state membrane model for the channel-forming domain of colicin E1 involves eight amphipathic α-helices (helices I-VII and X) that adopt a two-dimensional arrangement on the membrane surface. Two central hydrophobic α-helices in colicin E1 (VIII and IX) adopt a transmembrane location-the umbrella model. Helices I and II have been shown to participate in the channel by forming a transmembrane segment (TM1) in the voltage-induced open channel state. Consequently, it is paramount to determine the relative location and orientation of helix I in the two-dimensional arrangement of the membrane. A new, low-resolution, three-dimensional model of the closed state of the colicin E1 channel was constructed based on FRET measurements between three naturally occurring Trp residues and three sites in helix I, in addition to previously reported FRET distances for the channel domain. Furthermore, a new mechanism for the channel integration process involving the transition of the soluble to membrane-bound form is presented based on a plethora of kinetic data for this process. Crown Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  9. Frost hardiness of tree species is independent of phenology and macroclimatic niche.

    PubMed

    Hofmann, M; Bruelheide, H

    2015-03-01

    The differences in timing in bud burst between species have been interpreted as an adaptation to late frost events in spring. Thus, it has been suggested that the degree of frost susceptibility of leaves is species-specific and depends on the species' phenology and geographic distribution range. To test for relationships between frost tolerance and phenology as well as between frost tolerance and distribution range across Central European tree species, we studied the frost hardiness of closed buds before bud burst and of freshly opened buds at the time of bud burst. We hypothesized that species with early bud burst and species distributed in eastern and northern areas were more frost tolerant than species with late bud burst and species distributed in western and southern areas. Frost hardiness was estimated by exposing twigs to 11 frost temperatures between -4 °C and -80 °C and by assessing tissue damage by the electrolyte leakage method. In contrast to our hypotheses, neither frost hardiness of closed buds nor frost hardiness of freshly opened buds were related to any variable describing species' macroclimatic niche. Furthermore, frost hardiness of freshly opened buds did not differ among species. Thus, the investigated species with early bud burst take higher risks of frost damage than the species with late bud bursts. These findings indicate that frost hardiness might not play the key role in limiting the geographic distribution ranges previously anticipated.

  10. The bias of a 2D view: Comparing 2D and 3D mesophyll surface area estimates using non-invasive imaging

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    The surface area of the leaf mesophyll exposed to intercellular airspace per leaf area (Sm) is closely associated with CO2 diffusion and photosynthetic rates. Sm is typically estimated from two-dimensional (2D) leaf sections and corrected for the three-dimensional (3D) geometry of mesophyll cells, l...

  11. Pickup Ion Distributions from Three Dimensional Neutral Exospheres

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hartle, R. E.; Sarantos, M.; Sittler, E. C., Jr.

    2011-01-01

    Pickup ions formed from ionized neutral exospheres in flowing plasmas have phase space distributions that reflect their source's spatial distributions. Phase space distributions of the ions are derived from the Vlasov equation with a delta function source using three.dimensional neutral exospheres. The ExB drift produced by plasma motion picks up the ions while the effects of magnetic field draping, mass loading, wave particle scattering, and Coulomb collisions near a planetary body are ignored. Previously, one.dimensional exospheres were treated, resulting in closed form pickup ion distributions that explicitly depend on the ratio rg/H, where rg is the ion gyroradius and H is the neutral scale height at the exobase. In general, the pickup ion distributions, based on three.dimensional neutral exospheres, cannot be written in closed form, but can be computed numerically. They continue to reflect their source's spatial distributions in an implicit way. These ion distributions and their moments are applied to several bodies, including He(+) and Na(+) at the Moon, H(+2) and CH(+4) at Titan, and H+ at Venus. The best places to use these distributions are upstream of the Moon's surface, the ionopause of Titan, and the bow shock of Venus.

  12. Kasza: design of a closed water system for the greenhouse horticulture.

    PubMed

    van der Velde, Raphaël T; Voogt, Wim; Pickhardt, Pieter W

    2008-01-01

    The need for a closed and sustainable water system in greenhouse areas is stimulated by the implementation in the Netherlands of the European Framework Directive. The Dutch national project Kasza: Design of a Closed Water System for the Greenhouse Horticulture will provide information how the water system in a greenhouse horticulture area can be closed. In this paper the conceptual design of two systems to close the water cycle in a greenhouse area is described. The first system with reverse osmosis system can be used in areas where desalination is required in order to be able to use the recycle water for irrigation of all crops. The second system with advanced oxidation using UV and peroxide can be applied in areas with more salt tolerant crops and good (low sodium) water sources for irrigation. Both systems are financially feasible in new greenhouse areas with substantial available recycle water. (c) IWA Publishing 2008.

  13. Trigonometrical sums connected with the chiral Potts model, Verlinde dimension formula, two-dimensional resistor network, and number theory

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chair, Noureddine

    2014-02-01

    We have recently developed methods for obtaining exact two-point resistance of the complete graph minus N edges. We use these methods to obtain closed formulas of certain trigonometrical sums that arise in connection with one-dimensional lattice, in proving Scott's conjecture on permanent of Cauchy matrix, and in the perturbative chiral Potts model. The generalized trigonometrical sums of the chiral Potts model are shown to satisfy recursion formulas that are transparent and direct, and differ from those of Gervois and Mehta. By making a change of variables in these recursion formulas, the dimension of the space of conformal blocks of SU(2) and SO(3) WZW models may be computed recursively. Our methods are then extended to compute the corner-to-corner resistance, and the Kirchhoff index of the first non-trivial two-dimensional resistor network, 2×N. Finally, we obtain new closed formulas for variant of trigonometrical sums, some of which appear in connection with number theory.

  14. Geometric interpretation of four-wave mixing

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ott, J. R.; Steffensen, H.; Rottwitt, K.; McKinstrie, C. J.

    2013-10-01

    The nonlinear phenomenon of four-wave mixing (FWM) is investigated using a method, where, without the need of calculus, both phase and amplitudes of the mixing fields are visualized simultaneously, giving a complete overview of the FWM dynamics. This is done by introducing a set of Stokes-like coordinates of the electric fields, which reduce the FWM dynamics to a closed two-dimensional surface, similar to the Bloch sphere of quantum electrodynamics or the Pointcaré sphere in polarization dynamics. The coordinates are chosen so as to use the gauge invariance symmetries of the FWM equations which also give the conservation of action flux known as the Manley-Rowe relations. This reduces the dynamics of FWM to the one-dimensional intersection between the closed two-dimensional surface and the phase-plane given by the conserved Hamiltonian. The analysis is advantageous for visualizing phase-dependent FWM phenomena which are found in a large variety of nonlinear systems and even in various optical communication schemes.

  15. Existence of standard models of conic fibrations over non-algebraically-closed fields

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

    Avilov, A A

    2014-12-31

    We prove an analogue of Sarkisov's theorem on the existence of a standard model of a conic fibration over an algebraically closed field of characteristic different from two for three-dimensional conic fibrations over an arbitrary field of characteristic zero with an action of a finite group. Bibliography: 16 titles.

  16. "The Mermaid's Purse:" Looking Closely at Young Children's Art and Poetry

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Wolf, Shelby A.

    2006-01-01

    In this article, the author explores the multimodal poems, digital photographs, and three-dimensional artistic creations of young children who live by the sea. Encouraged by their teachers and adult artists, the children learned to look closely at the sign systems of art and poetry to open up worlds of image creation and metaphor making. Teachers…

  17. Development of DArT-based PCR markers for selecting drought-tolerant spring barley.

    PubMed

    Fiust, Anna; Rapacz, Marcin; Wójcik-Jagła, Magdalena; Tyrka, Mirosław

    2015-08-01

    The tolerance of spring barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) cultivars to spring drought is an important agronomic trait affecting crop yield and quality in Poland. Therefore, breeders require new molecular markers to select plants with lower spring drought susceptibility. With the advent of genomic selection technology, simple molecular tools may still be applicable to screen material for markers of the most important traits and in-depth genome scanning. In previous studies, diversity arrays technology (DArT)-based genetic maps were constructed for F2 populations of Polish fodder and malt barley elite breeding lines, and 15 and 18 quantitative trait loci (QTLs) related to spring drought tolerance were identified, respectively. In this paper, we show the results of a conversion of 30 DArT markers corresponding to 11 QTLs into simple sequence repeat (SSR) and sequence tagged site (STS) markers. Twenty-two polymorphic markers were obtained, including 13 DArT-based SSRs. Additionally, 31 SSR markers, located in close proximity to the DArT markers, were selected from the GrainGenes database and tested. Further analyses of 24 advanced breeding lines with different drought tolerances confirmed that five out of the 30 converted markers, as well as three out of the 31 additional SSR markers, were effective in marker-assisted selection for drought tolerance. The possible function of clones related to these markers in drought tolerance is discussed.

  18. Phylogenetic relationships and taxonomic position of Chlorella-like isolates from low pH environments (pH < 3.0)

    PubMed Central

    Huss, Volker AR; Ciniglia, Claudia; Cennamo, Paola; Cozzolino, Salvatore; Pinto, Gabriele; Pollio, Antonino

    2002-01-01

    Background Little is known about phytoplankton communities inhabiting low pH environments such as volcanic and geothermal sites or acidic waters. Only specialised organisms are able to tolerate such extreme conditions. There is, thus, low species diversity. We have characterised the previously isolated acid tolerant Chlorella-like microalgae Viridiella fridericiana and Chlorella protothecoides var. acidicola by microscopical and biomolecular methods in order to assess their phylogenetic relationships. Results Both isolates belong to the trebouxiophycean lineage of chlorophytes. 18S and ITS1 sequence data clearly confirm that Viridiella fridericiana constitutes a new genus apart from the morphologically similar and likewise acid tolerant microalga Chlorella saccharophila. Chlorella protothecoides var. acidicola on the other hand is not a variety of Chlorella protothecoides but falls within a heterogeneous cluster consisting of Nannochloris, "Chlorella" spec. Yanaqocha, and Koliella, and is most closely related to algae which were also isolated from extreme environments. Conclusions The distribution of acid tolerant strains in the 18S rRNA tree shows that acquisition of acid tolerance was unlikely a monophyletic event in green microalgae. We propose that different strains have independently adapted to extreme environments. Some of them have spread worldwide and were able to colonise other extreme habitats. Considering the problems of successfully isolating acid tolerant strains, acidic soils could represent an unsuspected source of biological diversity with high potential for biotechnological utilisations. PMID:12194702

  19. New technique for heterogeneous vapor-phase synthesis of nanostructured metal layers from low-dimensional volatile metal complexes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Badalyan, A. M.; Bakhturova, L. F.; Kaichev, V. V.; Polyakov, O. V.; Pchelyakov, O. P.; Smirnov, G. I.

    2011-09-01

    A new technique for depositing thin nanostructured layers on semiconductor and insulating substrates that is based on heterogeneous gas-phase synthesis from low-dimensional volatile metal complexes is suggested and tried out. Thin nanostructured copper layers are deposited on silicon and quartz substrates from low-dimensional formate complexes using a combined synthesis-mass transport process. It is found that copper in layers thus deposited is largely in a metal state (Cu0) and has the form of closely packed nanograins with a characteristic structure.

  20. Identification of QTL in a tepary bean RIL population under abiotic stress

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    High temperatures and drought are critical abiotic factors that limit the production of grain legumes, especially in tropical countries. Tepary bean (Phaseolus acutifolius A. Gray) is a species that is tolerant to high temperatures and drought. It is also closely related to common bean (Phaseolus vu...

  1. Reaching Students Where They Are

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Teaching Tolerance, 2009

    2009-01-01

    The "achievement gap" is one of the most disturbing phenomena in American education. Teachers want to close the gap in their own schools--but because the gap is rooted in longstanding and widespread problems, the task sometimes feels like a monumental undertaking. This fall, Teaching Tolerance launched the Teaching Diverse Students Initiative…

  2. Exploration Geophysics

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Espey, H. R.

    1977-01-01

    Describes geophysical techniques such as seismic, gravity, and magnetic surveys of offshare acreage, and land-data gathering from a three-dimensional representation made from closely spaced seismic lines. (MLH)

  3. What is the latent structure of alcohol use disorders? A taxometric analysis of the Personality Assessment Inventory Alcohol Problems Scale in male and female prison inmates.

    PubMed

    Walters, Glenn D; Diamond, Pamela M; Magaletta, Philip R

    2010-03-01

    Three indicators derived from the Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI) Alcohol Problems scale (ALC)-tolerance/high consumption, loss of control, and negative social and psychological consequences-were subjected to taxometric analysis-mean above minus below a cut (MAMBAC), maximum covariance (MAXCOV), and latent mode factor analysis (L-Mode)-in 1,374 federal prison inmates (905 males, 469 females). Whereas the total sample yielded ambiguous results, the male subsample produced dimensional results, and the female subsample produced taxonic results. Interpreting these findings in light of previous taxometric research on alcohol abuse and dependence it is speculated that while alcohol use disorders may be taxonic in female offenders, they are probably both taxonic and dimensional in male offenders. Two models of male alcohol use disorder in males are considered, one in which the diagnostic features are categorical and the severity of symptomatology is dimensional, and one in which some diagnostic features (e.g., withdrawal) are taxonic and other features (e.g., social problems) are dimensional.

  4. A comparative framework for maneuverability and gust tolerance of aerial microsystems

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Campbell, Renee

    Aerial microsystems have the potential of navigating low-altitude, cluttered environments such as urban corridors and building interiors. Reliable systems require both agility and tolerance to gusts. While many platform designs are under development, no framework currently exists to quantitatively assess these inherent bare airframe characteristics which are independent of closed loop controllers. This research develops a method to quantify the maneuverability and gust tolerance of vehicles using reachability and disturbance sensitivity sets. The method is applied to a stable flybar helicopter and an unstable flybarless helicopter, whose state space models were formed through system identification. Model-based static H∞ controllers were also implemented on the vehicles and tested in the lab using fan-generated gusts. It is shown that the flybar restricts the bare airframe's ability to maneuver in translational velocity directions. As such, the flybarless helicopter proved more maneuverable and gust tolerant than the flybar helicopter. This approach was specifically applied here to compare stable and unstable helicopter platforms; however, the framework may be used to assess a broad range of aerial microsystems.

  5. Regulation of the calcium-sensing receptor in both stomatal movement and photosynthetic electron transport is crucial for water use efficiency and drought tolerance in Arabidopsis.

    PubMed

    Wang, Wen-Hua; Chen, Juan; Liu, Ting-Wu; Chen, Juan; Han, Ai-Dong; Simon, Martin; Dong, Xue-Jun; He, Jun-Xian; Zheng, Hai-Lei

    2014-01-01

    Production per amount of water used (water use efficiency, WUE) is closely correlated with drought tolerance. Although stomatal aperture can regulate WUE, the underlying molecular mechanisms are still unclear. Previous reports revealed that stomatal closure was inhibited in the calcium-sensing receptor (CAS) antisense line of Arabidopsis (CASas). Here it is shown that decreased drought tolerance and WUE of CASas was associated with higher stomatal conductance due to improper regulation of stomatal aperture, rather than any change of stomatal density. CASas plants also had a lower CO2 assimilation rate that was attributed to a lower photosynthetic electron transport rate, leading to higher chlorophyll fluorescence. Gene co-expression combined with analyses of chlorophyll content and transcription levels of photosynthesis-related genes indicate that CAS is involved in the formation of the photosynthetic electron transport system. These data suggest that CAS regulates transpiration and optimizes photosynthesis by playing important roles in stomatal movement and formation of photosynthetic electron transport, thereby regulating WUE and drought tolerance.

  6. Sliding mode based fault detection, reconstruction and fault tolerant control scheme for motor systems.

    PubMed

    Mekki, Hemza; Benzineb, Omar; Boukhetala, Djamel; Tadjine, Mohamed; Benbouzid, Mohamed

    2015-07-01

    The fault-tolerant control problem belongs to the domain of complex control systems in which inter-control-disciplinary information and expertise are required. This paper proposes an improved faults detection, reconstruction and fault-tolerant control (FTC) scheme for motor systems (MS) with typical faults. For this purpose, a sliding mode controller (SMC) with an integral sliding surface is adopted. This controller can make the output of system to track the desired position reference signal in finite-time and obtain a better dynamic response and anti-disturbance performance. But this controller cannot deal directly with total system failures. However an appropriate combination of the adopted SMC and sliding mode observer (SMO), later it is designed to on-line detect and reconstruct the faults and also to give a sensorless control strategy which can achieve tolerance to a wide class of total additive failures. The closed-loop stability is proved, using the Lyapunov stability theory. Simulation results in healthy and faulty conditions confirm the reliability of the suggested framework. Copyright © 2015 ISA. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  7. Boechera Species Exhibit Species-Specific Responses to Combined Heat and High Light Stress

    PubMed Central

    Gallas, Genna; Waters, Elizabeth R.

    2015-01-01

    As sessile organisms, plants must be able to complete their life cycle in place and therefore tolerance to abiotic stress has had a major role in shaping biogeographical patterns. However, much of what we know about plant tolerance to abiotic stresses is based on studies of just a few plant species, most notably the model species Arabidopsis thaliana. In this study we examine natural variation in the stress responses of five diverse Boechera (Brassicaceae) species. Boechera plants were exposed to basal and acquired combined heat and high light stress. Plant response to these stresses was evaluated based on chlorophyll fluorescence measurements, induction of leaf chlorosis, and gene expression. Many of the Boechera species were more tolerant to heat and high light stress than A. thaliana. Gene expression data indicates that two important marker genes for stress responses: APX2 (Ascorbate peroxidase 2) and HsfA2 (Heat shock transcription factor A2) have distinct species-specific expression patterns. The findings of species-specific responses and tolerance to stress indicate that stress pathways are evolutionarily labile even among closely related species. PMID:26030823

  8. Adaptive Fault-Tolerant Control of Uncertain Nonlinear Large-Scale Systems With Unknown Dead Zone.

    PubMed

    Chen, Mou; Tao, Gang

    2016-08-01

    In this paper, an adaptive neural fault-tolerant control scheme is proposed and analyzed for a class of uncertain nonlinear large-scale systems with unknown dead zone and external disturbances. To tackle the unknown nonlinear interaction functions in the large-scale system, the radial basis function neural network (RBFNN) is employed to approximate them. To further handle the unknown approximation errors and the effects of the unknown dead zone and external disturbances, integrated as the compounded disturbances, the corresponding disturbance observers are developed for their estimations. Based on the outputs of the RBFNN and the disturbance observer, the adaptive neural fault-tolerant control scheme is designed for uncertain nonlinear large-scale systems by using a decentralized backstepping technique. The closed-loop stability of the adaptive control system is rigorously proved via Lyapunov analysis and the satisfactory tracking performance is achieved under the integrated effects of unknown dead zone, actuator fault, and unknown external disturbances. Simulation results of a mass-spring-damper system are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed adaptive neural fault-tolerant control scheme for uncertain nonlinear large-scale systems.

  9. Competing exchanges and spin-phonon coupling in Eu(1-x)R(x)MnO3 (R=Y, Lu).

    PubMed

    Mota, D A; Barcelay, Y Romaguera; Tavares, P B; Chaves, M R; Almeida, A; Oliveira, J; Ferreira, W S; Moreira, J Agostinho

    2013-06-12

    This work is focused on the phase diagrams and physical properties of Y-doped and Lu-doped EuMnO3. The differences in the corresponding phase boundaries in the (x,T) phase diagram could be overcome by considering a scaling of the Y(3+) and Lu(3+) concentrations to the tolerance factor. This outcome evidences that the tolerance factor is in fact a more reliable representative of the lattice deformation induced by doping. The normalization of the phase boundaries using the tolerance factor corroborates previous theoretical outcomes regarding the key role of competitive FM and AFM exchanges in determining the phase diagrams of manganite perovskites. However, significant differences in the nature and number of phases at low temperatures and concentrations could not be explained by just considering the normalization to the tolerance factor. The vertical phase boundary observed just for Lu-doped EuMnO3, close to 10% Lu, is understood by considering a low temperature Peierls-type spin-phonon coupling, which stabilizes the AFM-4 phase in Lu-doped EuMnO3.

  10. Dual-quaternion based fault-tolerant control for spacecraft formation flying with finite-time convergence.

    PubMed

    Dong, Hongyang; Hu, Qinglei; Ma, Guangfu

    2016-03-01

    Study results of developing control system for spacecraft formation proximity operations between a target and a chaser are presented. In particular, a coupled model using dual quaternion is employed to describe the proximity problem of spacecraft formation, and a nonlinear adaptive fault-tolerant feedback control law is developed to enable the chaser spacecraft to track the position and attitude of the target even though its actuator occurs fault. Multiple-task capability of the proposed control system is further demonstrated in the presence of disturbances and parametric uncertainties as well. In addition, the practical finite-time stability feature of the closed-loop system is guaranteed theoretically under the designed control law. Numerical simulation of the proposed method is presented to demonstrate the advantages with respect to interference suppression, fast tracking, fault tolerant and practical finite-time stability. Copyright © 2015 ISA. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  11. Utilization of a terrestrial cyanobacterium, Nostoc sp. HK-01, for space habitation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kimura, Shunta; Tomita-Yokotani, Kaori; Arai, Mayumi; Yamashita, Masamichi; Katoh, Hiroshi; Ajioka, Reiko; Inoue, Kotomi

    2016-07-01

    A terrestrial cyanobacterium, Nostoc sp. HK-01 (hereafter HK-01), has several useful abilities for space habitation; photosynthesis, nitrogen fixation, and space environmental tolerances to vacuum, UV, gamma-ray, heavy particle beam, low and high temperature. Space environmental tolerances are important for transportation to Mars. HK-01 can grow on Martian regolith simulant (MRS) in vitro. Furthermore, HK-01 is useful as food. HK-01 may be utilized as oxygen supply, soil formation and food material for bio-chemical circulation in closed bio-ecosystems, including space habitation such as Mars. HK-01 was adopted as a biological material for the "TANPOPO" mission (JAXA et al.,), because of their high environmental tolerances. The "TANPOPO" mission is performing the space exposure experiments on the Japan Experimental Module (JEM) of the International Space Station (ISS). The results of these experiments will show the ability of HK-01 to survive in space.

  12. TGF-β in tolerance, development and regulation of immunity

    PubMed Central

    Johnston, Chris J.C.; Smyth, Danielle J.; Dresser, David W.; Maizels, Rick M.

    2016-01-01

    The TGF-β superfamily is an ancient metazoan protein class which cuts across cell and tissue differentiation, developmental biology and immunology. Its many members are regulated at multiple levels from intricate control of gene transcription, post-translational processing and activation, and signaling through overlapping receptor structures and downstream intracellular messengers. We have been interested in TGF-β homologues firstly as key players in the induction of immunological tolerance, the topic so closely associated with Ray Owen. Secondly, our interests in how parasites may manipulate the immune system of their host has also brought us to study the TGF-β pathway in infections with longlived, essentially tolerogenic, helminth parasites. Finally, within the spectrum of mammalian TGF-β proteins is an exquisitely tightly-regulated gene, anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), whose role in sex determination underpins the phenotype of freemartin calves that formed the focus of Ray’s seminal work on immunological tolerance. PMID:26617281

  13. Three-dimensional accuracy of different impression techniques for dental implants

    PubMed Central

    Nakhaei, Mohammadreza; Madani, Azam S; Moraditalab, Azizollah; Haghi, Hamidreza Rajati

    2015-01-01

    Background: Accurate impression making is an essential prerequisite for achieving a passive fit between the implant and the superstructure. The aim of this in vitro study was to compare the three-dimensional accuracy of open-tray and three closed-tray impression techniques. Materials and Methods: Three acrylic resin mandibular master models with four parallel implants were used: Biohorizons (BIO), Straumann tissue-level (STL), and Straumann bone-level (SBL). Forty-two putty/wash polyvinyl siloxane impressions of the models were made using open-tray and closed-tray techniques. Closed-tray impressions were made using snap-on (STL model), transfer coping (TC) (BIO model) and TC plus plastic cap (TC-Cap) (SBL model). The impressions were poured with type IV stone, and the positional accuracy of the implant analog heads in each dimension (x, y and z axes), and the linear displacement (ΔR) were evaluated using a coordinate measuring machine. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and post-hoc Tukey tests (α = 0.05). Results: The ΔR values of the snap-on technique were significantly lower than those of TC and TC-Cap techniques (P < 0.001). No significant differences were found between closed and open impression techniques for STL in Δx, Δy, Δz and ΔR values (P = 0.444, P = 0.181, P = 0.835 and P = 0.911, respectively). Conclusion: Considering the limitations of this study, the snap-on implant-level impression technique resulted in more three-dimensional accuracy than TC and TC-Cap, but it was similar to the open-tray technique. PMID:26604956

  14. Obstructed bi-leaflet prosthetic mitral valve imaging with real-time three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography.

    PubMed

    Shimbo, Mai; Watanabe, Hiroyuki; Kimura, Shunsuke; Terada, Mai; Iino, Takako; Iino, Kenji; Ito, Hiroshi

    2015-01-01

    Real-time three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (RT3D-TEE) can provide unique visualization and better understanding of the relationship among cardiac structures. Here, we report the case of an 85-year-old woman with an obstructed mitral prosthetic valve diagnosed promptly by RT3D-TEE, which clearly showed a leaflet stuck in the closed position. The opening and closing angles of the valve leaflets measured by RT3D-TEE were compatible with those measured by fluoroscopy. Moreover, RT3D-TEE revealed, in the ring of the prosthetic valve, thrombi that were not visible on fluoroscopy. RT3D-TEE might be a valuable diagnostic technique for prosthetic mitral valve thrombosis. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  15. Multilayer DNA origami packed on hexagonal and hybrid lattices.

    PubMed

    Ke, Yonggang; Voigt, Niels V; Gothelf, Kurt V; Shih, William M

    2012-01-25

    "Scaffolded DNA origami" has been proven to be a powerful and efficient approach to construct two-dimensional or three-dimensional objects with great complexity. Multilayer DNA origami has been demonstrated with helices packing along either honeycomb-lattice geometry or square-lattice geometry. Here we report successful folding of multilayer DNA origami with helices arranged on a close-packed hexagonal lattice. This arrangement yields a higher density of helical packing and therefore higher resolution of spatial addressing than has been shown previously. We also demonstrate hybrid multilayer DNA origami with honeycomb-lattice, square-lattice, and hexagonal-lattice packing of helices all in one design. The availability of hexagonal close-packing of helices extends our ability to build complex structures using DNA nanotechnology. © 2011 American Chemical Society

  16. A Voluntary Breath-Hold Treatment Technique for the Left Breast With Unfavorable Cardiac Anatomy Using Surface Imaging

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

    Gierga, David P., E-mail: dgierga@partners.org; Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Turcotte, Julie C.

    2012-12-01

    Purpose: Breath-hold (BH) treatments can be used to reduce cardiac dose for patients with left-sided breast cancer and unfavorable cardiac anatomy. A surface imaging technique was developed for accurate patient setup and reproducible real-time BH positioning. Methods and Materials: Three-dimensional surface images were obtained for 20 patients. Surface imaging was used to correct the daily setup for each patient. Initial setup data were recorded for 443 fractions and were analyzed to assess random and systematic errors. Real time monitoring was used to verify surface placement during BH. The radiation beam was not turned on if the BH position difference wasmore » greater than 5 mm. Real-time surface data were analyzed for 2398 BHs and 363 treatment fractions. The mean and maximum differences were calculated. The percentage of BHs greater than tolerance was calculated. Results: The mean shifts for initial patient setup were 2.0 mm, 1.2 mm, and 0.3 mm in the vertical, longitudinal, and lateral directions, respectively. The mean 3-dimensional vector shift was 7.8 mm. Random and systematic errors were less than 4 mm. Real-time surface monitoring data indicated that 22% of the BHs were outside the 5-mm tolerance (range, 7%-41%), and there was a correlation with breast volume. The mean difference between the treated and reference BH positions was 2 mm in each direction. For out-of-tolerance BHs, the average difference in the BH position was 6.3 mm, and the average maximum difference was 8.8 mm. Conclusions: Daily real-time surface imaging ensures accurate and reproducible positioning for BH treatment of left-sided breast cancer patients with unfavorable cardiac anatomy.« less

  17. Yeasts associated with an abandoned mining area in Pernek and their tolerance to different chemical elements.

    PubMed

    Vadkertiová, Renáta; Molnárová, Jana; Lux, Alexander; Vaculík, Marek; Lišková, Desana

    2016-05-01

    Four plants, Cirsium arvense (creeping thistle), Equisetum arvense (field horsetail), Oxalis acetosella (wood sorrel) and Phragmites australis (common reed), which grew in an abandoned Sb-mining area in Pernek (Malé Karpaty Mts., Slovakia), were investigated for the yeast species. Yeasts were isolated from both the leaves of the plants and the soil adjacent to the plants. In total, 65 yeast cultures, belonging to 11 ascomycetous and 5 basidiomycetous yeast species, were isolated. The species most frequently isolated from both the soil and leaf samples were Trichosporon porosum, Galactomyces candidus and Candida solani, whereas Aureobasidium pullulans, Candida tsuchiyae and Sporidiobolus metaroseus were isolated exclusively from the plant leaves. All the yeast species isolated were tested for their tolerance to two heavy metals (Cd, Zn) and three metalloids (As, Sb and Si). The yeasts isolated from both the leaves and soils exhibited a high tolerance level to both As and Sb, present in elevated concentrations at the locality. Among the yeast species tested, Cryptococcus musci, a close relative to Cryptococcus humicola, was the species most tolerant to all the chemical elements tested, with the exception of Si. It grew in the presence of 200 mmol/L Zn, 200 mmol/L Cd, 60 mmol/L As and 50 mmol/L Sb, and therefore, it can be considered as a multi-tolerant species. Some of the yeast species were tolerant to the individual chemical elements. The yeast-like species Trichosporon laibachii exhibited the highest tolerance to Si of all yeasts tested, and Cryptococcus flavescens and Lindnera saturnus showed the same tolerance as Cryptococcus musci to Zn and As, respectively. The majority of the yeasts showed a notably low tolerance to Cd (not exceeded 0.5 mmol/L), which was present in small amounts in the soil. However, Candida solani, isolated from the soil, exhibited a higher tolerance to Cd (20 mmol/L) than to As (2 mmol/L).

  18. Social Tolerance in Wild Female Crested Macaques (Macaca nigra) in Tangkoko-Batuangus Nature Reserve, Sulawesi, Indonesia

    PubMed Central

    Duboscq, Julie; Micheletta, Jérôme; Agil, Muhammad; Hodges, Keith; Thierry, Bernard; Engelhardt, Antje

    2013-01-01

    In primates, females typically drive the evolution of the social system and present a wide diversity of social structures. To understand this diversity, it is necessary to document the consistency and/or flexibility of female social structures across and within species, contexts, and environments. Macaques (Macaca sp.) are an ideal taxon for such comparative study, showing both consistency and variation in their social relations. Their social styles, constituting robust sets of social traits, can be classified in four grades, from despotic to tolerant. However, tolerant species are still understudied, especially in the wild. To foster our understanding of tolerant societies and to assess the validity of the concept of social style, we studied female crested macaques, Macaca nigra, under entirely natural conditions. We assessed their degree of social tolerance by analyzing the frequency, intensity, and distribution of agonistic and affiliative behaviors, their dominance gradient, their bared-teeth display, and their level of conciliatory tendency. We also analyzed previously undocumented behavioral patterns in grade 4 macaques: reaction upon approach and distribution of affiliative behavior across partners. We compared the observed patterns to data from other populations of grade 4 macaques and from species of other grades. Overall, female crested macaques expressed a tolerant social style, with low intensity, frequently bidirectional, and reconciled conflicts. Dominance asymmetry was moderate, associated with an affiliative bared-teeth display. Females greatly tolerated one another in close proximity. The observed patterns matched the profile of other tolerant macaques and were outside the range of patterns of more despotic species. This study is the first comprehensive analysis of females’ social behavior in a tolerant macaque species under natural conditions and as such, contributes to a better understanding of macaque societies. It also highlights the relevance of the social style concept in the assessment of the degree of tolerance/despotism in social systems. Am. J. Primatol. 75:361-375, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. PMID:23307343

  19. Chapter 5. Hidden Symmetry and Exact Solutions in Einstein Gravity

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yasui, Y.; Houri, T.

    Conformal Killing-Yano tensors are introduced as ageneralization of Killing vectors. They describe symmetries of higher-dimensional rotating black holes. In particular, a rank-2 closed conformal Killing-Yano tensor generates the tower of both hidden symmetries and isometries. We review a classification of higher-dimensional spacetimes admitting such a tensor, and present exact solutions to the Einstein equations for these spacetimes.

  20. Direct calculation of wall interferences and wall adaptation for two-dimensional flow in wind tunnels with closed walls

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Amecke, Juergen

    1986-01-01

    A method for the direct calculation of the wall induced interference velocity in two dimensional flow based on Cauchy's integral formula was derived. This one-step method allows the calculation of the residual corrections and the required wall adaptation for interference-free flow starting from the wall pressure distribution without any model representation. Demonstrated applications are given.

  1. The relative isoperimetric inequality on a conformally parabolic manifold with boundary

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

    Kesel'man, Vladimir M

    2011-07-31

    For an arbitrary noncompact n-dimensional Riemannian manifold with a boundary of conformally parabolic type it is proved that there exists a conformal change of metric such that a relative isoperimetric inequality of the same form as in the closed n-dimensional Euclidean half-space holds on the manifold with the new metric. This isoperimetric inequality is asymptotically sharp. Bibliography: 6 titles.

  2. Aspect Ratio Model for Radiation-Tolerant Dummy Gate-Assisted n-MOSFET Layout.

    PubMed

    Lee, Min Su; Lee, Hee Chul

    2014-01-01

    In order to acquire radiation-tolerant characteristics in integrated circuits, a dummy gate-assisted n-type metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor (DGA n-MOSFET) layout was adopted. The DGA n-MOSFET has a different channel shape compared with the standard n-MOSFET. The standard n-MOSFET has a rectangular channel shape, whereas the DGA n-MOSFET has an extended rectangular shape at the edge of the source and drain, which affects its aspect ratio. In order to increase its practical use, a new aspect ratio model is proposed for the DGA n-MOSFET and this model is evaluated through three-dimensional simulations and measurements of the fabricated devices. The proposed aspect ratio model for the DGA n-MOSFET exhibits good agreement with the simulation and measurement results.

  3. Aspect Ratio Model for Radiation-Tolerant Dummy Gate-Assisted n-MOSFET Layout

    PubMed Central

    Lee, Min Su; Lee, Hee Chul

    2014-01-01

    In order to acquire radiation-tolerant characteristics in integrated circuits, a dummy gate-assisted n-type metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor (DGA n-MOSFET) layout was adopted. The DGA n-MOSFET has a different channel shape compared with the standard n-MOSFET. The standard n-MOSFET has a rectangular channel shape, whereas the DGA n-MOSFET has an extended rectangular shape at the edge of the source and drain, which affects its aspect ratio. In order to increase its practical use, a new aspect ratio model is proposed for the DGA n-MOSFET and this model is evaluated through three-dimensional simulations and measurements of the fabricated devices. The proposed aspect ratio model for the DGA n-MOSFET exhibits good agreement with the simulation and measurement results. PMID:27350975

  4. Identifying a maximum tolerated contour in two-dimensional dose-finding

    PubMed Central

    Wages, Nolan A.

    2016-01-01

    The majority of Phase I methods for multi-agent trials have focused on identifying a single maximum tolerated dose combination (MTDC) among those being investigated. Some published methods in the area have been based on the notion that there is no unique MTDC, and that the set of dose combinations with acceptable toxicity forms an equivalence contour in two dimensions. Therefore, it may be of interest to find multiple MTDC's for further testing for efficacy in a Phase II setting. In this paper, we present a new dose-finding method that extends the continual reassessment method to account for the location of multiple MTDC's. Operating characteristics are demonstrated through simulation studies, and are compared to existing methodology. Some brief discussion of implementation and available software is also provided. PMID:26910586

  5. Lattice surgery on the Raussendorf lattice

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Herr, Daniel; Paler, Alexandru; Devitt, Simon J.; Nori, Franco

    2018-07-01

    Lattice surgery is a method to perform quantum computation fault-tolerantly by using operations on boundary qubits between different patches of the planar code. This technique allows for universal planar code computation without eliminating the intrinsic two-dimensional nearest-neighbor properties of the surface code that eases physical hardware implementations. Lattice surgery approaches to algorithmic compilation and optimization have been demonstrated to be more resource efficient for resource-intensive components of a fault-tolerant algorithm, and consequently may be preferable over braid-based logic. Lattice surgery can be extended to the Raussendorf lattice, providing a measurement-based approach to the surface code. In this paper we describe how lattice surgery can be performed on the Raussendorf lattice and therefore give a viable alternative to computation using braiding in measurement-based implementations of topological codes.

  6. Exact Fourier expansion in cylindrical coordinates for the three-dimensional Helmholtz Green function

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Conway, John T.; Cohl, Howard S.

    2010-06-01

    A new method is presented for Fourier decomposition of the Helmholtz Green function in cylindrical coordinates, which is equivalent to obtaining the solution of the Helmholtz equation for a general ring source. The Fourier coefficients of the Green function are split into their half advanced + half retarded and half advanced-half retarded components, and closed form solutions for these components are then obtained in terms of a Horn function and a Kampé de Fériet function respectively. Series solutions for the Fourier coefficients are given in terms of associated Legendre functions, Bessel and Hankel functions and a hypergeometric function. These series are derived either from the closed form 2-dimensional hypergeometric solutions or from an integral representation, or from both. A simple closed form far-field solution for the general Fourier coefficient is derived from the Hankel series. Numerical calculations comparing different methods of calculating the Fourier coefficients are presented. Fourth order ordinary differential equations for the Fourier coefficients are also given and discussed briefly.

  7. Topological Vortex and Knotted Dissipative Optical 3D Solitons Generated by 2D Vortex Solitons

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Veretenov, N. A.; Fedorov, S. V.; Rosanov, N. N.

    2017-12-01

    We predict a new class of three-dimensional (3D) topological dissipative optical one-component solitons in homogeneous laser media with fast saturable absorption. Their skeletons formed by vortex lines where the field vanishes are tangles, i.e., Nc knotted or unknotted, linked or unlinked closed lines and M unclosed lines that thread all the closed lines and end at the infinitely far soliton periphery. They are generated by embedding two-dimensional laser solitons or their complexes in 3D space after their rotation around an unclosed, infinite vortex line with topological charge M0 (Nc , M , and M0 are integers). With such structure propagation, the "hula-hoop" solitons form; their stability is confirmed numerically. For the solitons found, all vortex lines have unit topological charge: the number of closed lines Nc=1 and 2 (unknots, trefoils, and Solomon knots links); unclosed vortex lines are unknotted and unlinked, their number M =1 , 2, and 3.

  8. Topological Vortex and Knotted Dissipative Optical 3D Solitons Generated by 2D Vortex Solitons.

    PubMed

    Veretenov, N A; Fedorov, S V; Rosanov, N N

    2017-12-29

    We predict a new class of three-dimensional (3D) topological dissipative optical one-component solitons in homogeneous laser media with fast saturable absorption. Their skeletons formed by vortex lines where the field vanishes are tangles, i.e., N_{c} knotted or unknotted, linked or unlinked closed lines and M unclosed lines that thread all the closed lines and end at the infinitely far soliton periphery. They are generated by embedding two-dimensional laser solitons or their complexes in 3D space after their rotation around an unclosed, infinite vortex line with topological charge M_{0} (N_{c}, M, and M_{0} are integers). With such structure propagation, the "hula-hoop" solitons form; their stability is confirmed numerically. For the solitons found, all vortex lines have unit topological charge: the number of closed lines N_{c}=1 and 2 (unknots, trefoils, and Solomon knots links); unclosed vortex lines are unknotted and unlinked, their number M=1, 2, and 3.

  9. The use of cluster analysis for plant grouping by their tolerance to soil contamination with hydrocarbons at the germination stage.

    PubMed

    Potashev, Konstantin; Sharonova, Natalia; Breus, Irina

    2014-07-01

    Clustering was employed for the analysis of obtained experimental data set (42 plants in total) on seed germination in leached chernozem contaminated with kerosene. Among investigated plants were 31 cultivated plants from 11 families (27 species and 20 varieties) and 11 wild plant species from 7 families, 23 annual and 19 perennial/biannual plant species, 11 monocotyledonous and 31 dicotyledonous plants. Two-dimensional (two-parameter) clustering approach, allowing the estimation of tolerance of germinating seeds using a pair of independent parameters (С75%, V7%) was found to be most effective. These parameters characterized the ability of seeds to both withstand high concentrations of contaminants without the significant reduction of the germination, and maintain high germination rate within certain contaminant concentrations. The performed clustering revealed a number of plant features, which define the relation of a particular plant to a particular tolerance cluster; it has also demonstrated the possibility of generalizing the kerosene results for n-tridecane, which is one of the typical kerosene components. In contrast to the "manual" plant ranking based on the assessment of germination at discrete concentrations of the contaminant, the proposed clustering approach allowed a generalized characterization of the seed tolerance/sensitivity to hydrocarbon contaminants. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  10. Common and metal-specific proteomic responses to cadmium and zinc in the metal tolerant ericoid mycorrhizal fungus Oidiodendron maius Zn.

    PubMed

    Chiapello, M; Martino, E; Perotto, S

    2015-05-01

    Although adaptive metal tolerance may arise in fungal populations in polluted soils, the mechanisms underlying metal-specific tolerance are poorly understood. Comparative proteomics is a powerful tool to identify variation in protein profiles caused by changing environmental conditions, and was used to investigate protein accumulation in a metal tolerant isolate of the ericoid mycorrhizal fungus Oidiodendron maius exposed to zinc and cadmium. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and shotgun proteomics followed by mass spectrometry lead to the identification of common and metal-specific proteins and pathways. Proteins selectively induced by cadmium exposure were molecular chaperons of the Hsp90 family, cytoskeletal proteins and components of the translation machinery. Zinc significantly up-regulated metabolic pathways related to energy production and carbohydrates metabolism, likely mirroring zinc adaptation of this fungal isolate. Common proteins induced by the two metal ions were the antioxidant enzyme Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase and ubiquitin. In mycelia exposed to zinc and cadmium, both proteomic techniques also identified agmatinase, an enzyme involved in polyamine biosynthesis. This novel finding suggests that, like plants, polyamines may have important functions in response to abiotic environmental stress in fungi. Genetic evidence also suggests that the biosynthesis of polyamines via an alternative metabolic pathway may be widespread in fungi.

  11. Wire EDM for Refractory Materials

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Zellars, G. R.; Harris, F. E.; Lowell, C. E.; Pollman, W. M.; Rys, V. J.; Wills, R. J.

    1982-01-01

    In an attempt to reduce fabrication time and costs, Wire Electrical Discharge Machine (Wire EDM) method was investigated as tool for fabricating matched blade roots and disk slots. Eight high-strength nickel-base superalloys were used. Computer-controlled Wire EDM technique provided high quality surfaces with excellent dimensional tolerances. Wire EDM method offers potential for substantial reductions in fabrication costs for "hard to machine" alloys and electrically conductive materials in specific high-precision applications.

  12. Reliable Cellular Automata with Self-Organization

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gács, Peter

    2001-04-01

    In a probabilistic cellular automaton in which all local transitions have positive probability, the problem of keeping a bit of information indefinitely is nontrivial, even in an infinite automaton. Still, there is a solution in 2 dimensions, and this solution can be used to construct a simple 3-dimensional discrete-time universal fault-tolerant cellular automaton. This technique does not help much to solve the following problems: remembering a bit of information in 1 dimension; computing in dimensions lower than 3; computing in any dimension with non-synchronized transitions. Our more complex technique organizes the cells in blocks that perform a reliable simulation of a second (generalized) cellular automaton. The cells of the latter automaton are also organized in blocks, simulating even more reliably a third automaton, etc. Since all this (a possibly infinite hierarchy) is organized in "software," it must be under repair all the time from damage caused by errors. A large part of the problem is essentially self-stabilization recovering from a mess of arbitrary size and content. The present paper constructs an asynchronous one-dimensional fault-tolerant cellular automaton, with the further feature of "self-organization." The latter means that unless a large amount of input information must be given, the initial configuration can be chosen homogeneous.

  13. Regulation of tolerance of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii to heavy metal toxicity by heme oxygenase-1 and carbon monoxide.

    PubMed

    Wei, Yuan Yuan; Zheng, Qi; Liu, Zhao Pu; Yang, Zhi Min

    2011-09-01

    Investigation of heavy metal tolerance genes in green algae is of great importance because heavy metals have become one of the major contaminants in the aquatic ecosystem. In plants, accumulation of heavy metals modifies many aspects of cellular functions. However, the mechanism by which heavy metals exert detrimental effects is poorly understood. In this study, we identified a role for HO-1 (encoding heme oxygenase-1) in regulating the response of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, a unicellular green alga, to mercury (Hg). Transgenic algae overexpressing HO-1 showed high tolerance to Hg exposure, with a 48.2% increase in cell number over the wild type, but accumulated less Hg. Physiological analysis revealed that expression of HO-1 suppressed the Hg-induced generation of reactive oxygen species. We further identified the effect of carbon monoxide (CO), a product of HO-1-mediated heme degradation, on growth and physiological parameters. Interestingly, administration of exogenous CO at non-toxic levels also conferred the tolerance of algae to Hg exposure. The CO-mediated alleviation of Hg toxicity was closely related to the lower accumulation of Hg and free radical species. These results indicate that functional identification of HO-1 is useful for molecular breeding designed to improve plant tolerance to heavy metals and reduce heavy metal accumulation in plant cells.

  14. Mechanisms and evolution of hypoxia tolerance in fish

    PubMed Central

    Mandic, Milica; Todgham, Anne E.; Richards, Jeffrey G.

    2008-01-01

    The ability of an organism to acquire O2 from its environment is key to survival and can play an important role in dictating a species' ecological distribution. This study is the first, to our knowledge, to show a tight, phylogenetically independent correlation between hypoxia tolerance, traits involved in dictating O2 extraction capacity and the distribution of a group of closely related fish species, sculpins from the family Cottidae, along the nearshore marine environment. Sculpins with higher hypoxia tolerance, measured as low critical O2 tensions (Pcrit), inhabit the O2 variable intertidal zones, while species with lower hypoxia tolerance inhabit the more O2 stable subtidal zone or freshwater. Hypoxia tolerance is phylogenetically independently associated with an enhanced O2 extraction capacity, with three principal components accounting for 75 per cent of the variation in Pcrit: routine O2 consumption rate; mass-specific gill surface area; and whole blood haemoglobin (Hb)–O2-binding affinity (P50). Variation in whole blood Hb–O2 P50 is strongly correlated with the intrinsic O2-binding properties of the purified Hb while the differences in the concentration of the allosteric Hb modulators, ATP and GTP, provide a Hb system with substantial plasticity for survival in a highly O2 variable environment. PMID:18996831

  15. Simplified methods for screening cowpea cultivars for manganese leaf-tissue tolerance. [Vigna unguiculata

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

    Wissemeier, A.H.; Horst, W.J.

    In cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) dark brown speckles on old leaves are typical symptoms of Mn toxicity and indicate Mn sensitivity of leaf tissue. Induction and subsequent quantification of brown Mn speckles in leaf tissues were used to screen cowpea cultivars for Mn leaf-tissue tolerance using three different techniques: (i) leaf cuttings cultured for 22 days in solution culture with 20 {mu}M MnSO{sub 4}, (ii) leaf rings mounted on leaves of intact plants and filled with 500 {mu}M MnSO{sub 4} for 5 days, and (iii) leaf disks floated for 3 days on 500 {mu}M MnSO{sub 4}. Density of brownmore » speckles differed considerably among the six cultivars tested, and was not related to the Mn concentrations of the leaf tissues. There were close relationships between genotypic Mn-toxicity symptom expression and depression of dry matter production of the cultivars at high Mn supply in a long-term sand culture experiment. The floating leaf-disk method is particularly suited for screening large numbers of cowpea cultivars for Mn leaf-tissue tolerance because it requires only 3 days. The ranking of the cultivars for Mn tolerance was highly correlated to Mn tolerance of intact plants.« less

  16. 4-(1-Ethyl-4-anisyl-imidazol-5-yl)-N-hydroxycinnamide – A new pleiotropic HDAC inhibitor targeting cancer cell signalling and cytoskeletal organisation

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

    Mahal, Katharina, E-mail: katharina.mahal@uni-bayreuth.de; Kahlen, Philip, E-mail: philip.kahlen@uni-bayreuth.de; Biersack, Bernhard, E-mail: bernhard.biersack@yahoo.com

    2015-08-15

    Histone deacetylases (HDAC) which play a crucial role in cancer cell proliferation are promising drug targets. However, HDAC inhibitors (HDACi) modelled on natural hydroxamic acids such as trichostatin A frequently lead to resistance or even an increased agressiveness of tumours. As a workaround we developed 4-(1-ethyl-4-anisyl-imidazol-5-yl)-N-hydroxycinnamide (etacrox), a hydroxamic acid that combines HDAC inhibition with synergistic effects of the 4,5-diarylimidazole residue. Etacrox proved highly cytotoxic against a panel of metastatic and resistant cancer cell lines while showing greater specificity for cancer over non-malignant cells when compared to the approved HDACi vorinostat. Like the latter, etacrox and the closely related imidazolesmore » bimacroxam and animacroxam acted as pan-HDACi yet showed some specificity for HDAC6. Akt signalling and interference with nuclear beta-catenin localisation were elicited by etacrox at lower concentrations when compared to vorinostat. Moreover, etacrox disrupted the microtubule and focal adhesion dynamics of cancer cells and inhibited the proteolytic activity of prometastatic and proangiogenic matrix metalloproteinases. As a consequence, etacrox acted strongly antimigratory and antiinvasive against various cancer cell lines in three-dimensional transwell invasion assays and also antiangiogenic in vivo with respect to blood vessel formation in the chorioallantoic membrane assay. These pleiotropic effects and its water-solubility and tolerance by mice render etacrox a promising new HDACi candidate. - Graphical abstract: A novel histone deacetylase inhibitor with pleiotropic anticancer effects. - Highlights: • Etacrox is a new HDACi with cytotoxic, antiangiogenic and antiinvasive activity. • Etacrox causes aberrant cancer cell signalling and cytoskeletal reorganisation. • Pro-metastatic and angiogenic matrix metalloproteinases are inhibited by etacrox. • Etacrox impairs blood vessel maturation in vivo and cancer cell invasion in vitro. • Etacrox is tolerated well by mice in doses as high as 150 mg/kg.« less

  17. Lidocaine alleviates morphine tolerance via AMPK-SOCS3-dependent neuroinflammation suppression in the spinal cord.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Yan; Tao, Gao-Jian; Hu, Liang; Qu, Jie; Han, Yuan; Zhang, Guangqin; Qian, Yanning; Jiang, Chun-Yi; Liu, Wen-Tao

    2017-11-02

    Morphine tolerance is a clinical challenge, and its pathogenesis is closely related to the neuroinflammation mediated by Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4). In Chinese pain clinic, lidocaine is combined with morphine to treat chronic pain. We found that lidocaine sufficiently inhibited neuroinflammation induced by morphine and improved analgesic tolerance on the basis of non-affecting pain threshold. CD-1 mice were utilized for tail-flick test to evaluate morphine tolerance. The microglial cell line BV-2 was utilized to investigate the mechanism of lidocaine. Neuroinflammation-related cytokines were measured by western blotting and real-time PCR. The level of suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) and adenosine 5'-monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK)-related signaling pathway was evaluated by western blotting, real-time PCR, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and immunofluorescence staining. Lidocaine potentiated an anti-nociceptive effect of morphine and attenuated the chronic analgesic tolerance. Lidocaine suppressed morphine-induced activation of microglia and downregulated inflammatory cytokines, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) via upregulating SOCS3 by activating AMPK. Lidocaine enhanced AMPK phosphorylation in a calcium-dependent protein kinase kinase β (CaMKKβ)-dependent manner. Furthermore, lidocaine decreased the phosphorylation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and inhibited the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) in accordance with the inhibitory effects to TLR4. Lidocaine as a prevalent local anesthetic suppresses morphine tolerance efficiently. AMPK-dependent upregulation of SOCS3 by lidocaine plays a crucial role in the improvement of analgesic tolerance.

  18. Comparative genome analysis of a thermotolerant Escherichia coli obtained by Genome Replication Engineering Assisted Continuous Evolution (GREACE) and its parent strain provides new understanding of microbial heat tolerance.

    PubMed

    Luan, Guodong; Bao, Guanhui; Lin, Zhao; Li, Yang; Chen, Zugen; Li, Yin; Cai, Zhen

    2015-12-25

    Heat tolerance of microbes is of great importance for efficient biorefinery and bioconversion. However, engineering and understanding of microbial heat tolerance are difficult and insufficient because it is a complex physiological trait which probably correlates with all gene functions, genetic regulations, and cellular metabolisms and activities. In this work, a novel strain engineering approach named Genome Replication Engineering Assisted Continuous Evolution (GREACE) was employed to improve the heat tolerance of Escherichia coli. When the E. coli strain carrying a mutator was cultivated under gradually increasing temperature, genome-wide mutations were continuously generated during genome replication and the mutated strains with improved thermotolerance were autonomously selected. A thermotolerant strain HR50 capable of growing at 50°C on LB agar plate was obtained within two months, demonstrating the efficiency of GREACE in improving such a complex physiological trait. To understand the improved heat tolerance, genomes of HR50 and its wildtype strain DH5α were sequenced. Evenly distributed 361 mutations covering all mutation types were found in HR50. Closed material transportations, loose genome conformation, and possibly altered cell wall structure and transcription pattern were the main differences of HR50 compared with DH5α, which were speculated to be responsible for the improved heat tolerance. This work not only expanding our understanding of microbial heat tolerance, but also emphasizing that the in vivo continuous genome mutagenesis method, GREACE, is efficient in improving microbial complex physiological trait. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  19. Near-field testing of the 15-meter hoop-column antenna

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Schroeder, Lyle C.; Adams, Richard R.; Bailey, M. C.; Belvin, W. Keith; Butler, David H.; Campbell, Thomas G.

    1989-01-01

    A 15-m-diameter antenna was tested to verify that dimensional tolerances for acceptable performance could be achieved and to verify structural, electromagnetic, and mechanical performance predictions. This antenna utilized the hoop column structure, a gold plated molybdenum mesh reflector, and 96 control cables to adjust the reflector conformance with a paraboloid. The dimensional conformance of the antenna structure and surface was measured with metric camera and theodolites. Near field pattern data were used to assess the electromagnetic performance at five frequencies from 2.225 to 11.6 GHz. The reflector surface was adjusted to greatly improve electromagnetic performance with a finite element model and the surface measurements. Measurement results show that antenna surface figure and adjustments and electromagnetic patterns agree well with predictions.

  20. Linear instability of compound liquid threads in the presence of surfactant

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ye, Han-yu; Yang, Li-jun; Fu, Qing-fei

    2017-08-01

    This paper investigates the linear instability of compound liquid threads in the presence of surfactant. The limitation of the one-dimensional approximation in previous work [Craster, Matar, and Papageorgiou, Phys. Fluids 15, 3409 (2003), 10.1063/1.1611879] is removed; hence the radial dependence of the axial velocity can be taken into account. Therefore both the stretching and the squeezing modes can be investigated. The disturbance growth rate is reduced with an increase of the dimensionless surface-tension gradient (whether in the stretching or squeezing mode). For the parameter range investigated, it is found that the squeezing mode is much more sensitive to the Marangoni effect than the stretching mode. The disturbance axial velocity and disturbance surfactant concentration for a typical case is investigated. It is found that the disturbance axial velocity is close to uniform in the stretching mode when the dimensionless surface-tension gradient and the wave number are small. In contrast, for wave numbers close to cutoff, or a large dimensionless surface-tension gradient, or in the squeezing mode, the disturbance axial velocity is not uniform. Analytical relations between growth rate and wave number valid in the long-wave limit are derived. In the stretching mode, the flow moves from an extension-dominated regime to a shear-dominated regime when β1+R σ β2 increases through 1 +R σ , where β1 and β2 are the dimensionless surface-tension gradient of the inner and outer interface, respectively, R is the radius ratio, and σ is the surface tension ratio. In the squeezing mode, whatever the values of β1 and β2, the flow is always in the shear-dominated regime. The expressions of the leading-order axial perturbation velocity in the long-wave limit are derived and they explain the applicability of one-dimensional models. It is found that the leading-order axial velocity in the extension-dominated regime is always uniform and one-dimensional models work well in this regime. For the shear-dominated regime, the leading-order axial velocity can be either nonuniform or close to uniform, depending on the ratio between the dimensionless surfactant diffusivity d1 and the Laplace number La : when d1≫La the velocity profile is close to uniform and one-dimensional models work well; otherwise the velocity profile is nonuniform and one-dimensional models fail.

  1. Fault-tolerant quantum computation with nondeterministic entangling gates

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Auger, James M.; Anwar, Hussain; Gimeno-Segovia, Mercedes; Stace, Thomas M.; Browne, Dan E.

    2018-03-01

    Performing entangling gates between physical qubits is necessary for building a large-scale universal quantum computer, but in some physical implementations—for example, those that are based on linear optics or networks of ion traps—entangling gates can only be implemented probabilistically. In this work, we study the fault-tolerant performance of a topological cluster state scheme with local nondeterministic entanglement generation, where failed entangling gates (which correspond to bonds on the lattice representation of the cluster state) lead to a defective three-dimensional lattice with missing bonds. We present two approaches for dealing with missing bonds; the first is a nonadaptive scheme that requires no additional quantum processing, and the second is an adaptive scheme in which qubits can be measured in an alternative basis to effectively remove them from the lattice, hence eliminating their damaging effect and leading to better threshold performance. We find that a fault-tolerance threshold can still be observed with a bond-loss rate of 6.5% for the nonadaptive scheme, and a bond-loss rate as high as 14.5% for the adaptive scheme.

  2. Fault-tolerant control of large space structures using the stable factorization approach

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Razavi, H. C.; Mehra, R. K.; Vidyasagar, M.

    1986-01-01

    Large space structures are characterized by the following features: they are in general infinite-dimensional systems, and have large numbers of undamped or lightly damped poles. Any attempt to apply linear control theory to large space structures must therefore take into account these features. Phase I consisted of an attempt to apply the recently developed Stable Factorization (SF) design philosophy to problems of large space structures, with particular attention to the aspects of robustness and fault tolerance. The final report on the Phase I effort consists of four sections, each devoted to one task. The first three sections report theoretical results, while the last consists of a design example. Significant results were obtained in all four tasks of the project. More specifically, an innovative approach to order reduction was obtained, stabilizing controller structures for plants with an infinite number of unstable poles were determined under some conditions, conditions for simultaneous stabilizability of an infinite number of plants were explored, and a fault tolerance controller design that stabilizes a flexible structure model was obtained which is robust against one failure condition.

  3. Dimensionality reduction of collective motion by principal manifolds

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gajamannage, Kelum; Butail, Sachit; Porfiri, Maurizio; Bollt, Erik M.

    2015-01-01

    While the existence of low-dimensional embedding manifolds has been shown in patterns of collective motion, the current battery of nonlinear dimensionality reduction methods is not amenable to the analysis of such manifolds. This is mainly due to the necessary spectral decomposition step, which limits control over the mapping from the original high-dimensional space to the embedding space. Here, we propose an alternative approach that demands a two-dimensional embedding which topologically summarizes the high-dimensional data. In this sense, our approach is closely related to the construction of one-dimensional principal curves that minimize orthogonal error to data points subject to smoothness constraints. Specifically, we construct a two-dimensional principal manifold directly in the high-dimensional space using cubic smoothing splines, and define the embedding coordinates in terms of geodesic distances. Thus, the mapping from the high-dimensional data to the manifold is defined in terms of local coordinates. Through representative examples, we show that compared to existing nonlinear dimensionality reduction methods, the principal manifold retains the original structure even in noisy and sparse datasets. The principal manifold finding algorithm is applied to configurations obtained from a dynamical system of multiple agents simulating a complex maneuver called predator mobbing, and the resulting two-dimensional embedding is compared with that of a well-established nonlinear dimensionality reduction method.

  4. Investigating Inbreeding Depression for Heat Stress Tolerance in the Model Organism "Drosophila Melanogaster"

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Pedersen, Kamilla Sofie; Pedersen, Louise Dybdahl; Sorensen, Anders Christian; Nielsen, Anna Busch; Kristensen, Torsten Nygaard

    2012-01-01

    Mating between closely related individuals often causes reduced fitness, which is termed "inbreeding depression". Inbreeding is, therefore, a threat towards the persistence of animal and plant populations. Here we present methods and results from a practical for high-school and first-year university students and discuss learning outcomes…

  5. Evaluating shrinkage of wood propellers in a high-temperature environment

    Treesearch

    Richard Bergman; Robert J. Ross

    2008-01-01

    Minimizing wood shrinkage is a priority for many wood products in use, particularly engineered products manufactured to close tolerances, such as wood propellers for unmanned surveillance aircraft used in military operations. Those currently in service in the Middle East are experiencing performance problems as a consequence of wood shrinking during long-term storage...

  6. Factors influencing avian habitat selection between oak-hickory and mesic forests in southern Illinois

    Treesearch

    Kevin P. Sierzega; Michael W. Eichholz

    2014-01-01

    Oak (Quercus spp.) regeneration has declined drastically over the past century in eastern deciduous forests predominantly because of decreased disturbance (i.e., fire). Many forests are undergoing mesophication, a positive feedback system that occurs within closed-canopy systems wherein shade-tolerant, late successional, mesic species such as maples...

  7. Xylem Resin in the Resistance of the Pinaceae to Bark Beetles

    Treesearch

    Richard H. Smith

    1972-01-01

    Xylem resin of Pinaceae is closely linked with their resistance and suseptibility to tree-killing bark beetles. This review of the literature on attacking adults suggests that all three resistance mechanisms proposed by Painter -- preference, antibiosis, and tolerance -- are active in this relationship: preference by attraction, repellency, and synergism; antibiosis...

  8. An Interview with...Susan Limber and Sylvia Cedillo: Responding to Bullying.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Chamberlain, Steven P.

    2003-01-01

    An interview with two experts on violence, bullying, and sexual harassment in schools notes the increased attention given to bullying, the recognition of peer sexual harassment, a definition of bullying, the close relationship between sexual harassment and bullying, gender differences in bullying, problems with school "zero tolerance" policies, a…

  9. A comparative study between Solenopsis invicta and Solenopsis richteri on tolerance to heat and desiccation stresses

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    Solenopsis invicta and Solenopsis richteri are two very closely related invasive ant species. Although S. richteri was introduced and established in the United States earlier than S. invicta, the latter has displaced S. richteri throughout most of its distribution area. Why is S. invicta more succ...

  10. A novel one-shot circular stapler closure for atrial septal defect in a beating-heart porcine model.

    PubMed

    Tarui, Tatsuya; Tomita, Shigeyuki; Ishikawa, Norihiko; Ohtake, Hiroshi; Watanabe, Go

    2015-02-01

    In surgical atrial septal defect (ASD) closure, there are no techniques or devices that can close the ASD accurately in a short time under a beating heart. We have developed a simple and automatic ASD closure technique using a circular stapler. This study assessed the feasibility and efficacy of a new circular stapler closure for ASD. Under a continuous beating heart, hand-sewn patch plasty ASD closure was performed in 6 pigs (group A) and circular stapler ASD closure was performed in 6 pigs (group B). The time to close the ASD and the effectiveness of the closure were compared. Closure was significantly faster in group B (10.5 ± 1.0 seconds) than in group A (664 ± 10 seconds; p < 0.05). There was no leakage at the closure site, and sufficient tolerance was confirmed. A circular stapler can be used to treat ASD faster than hand-sewn patch plasty, with sufficient pressure tolerance in a beating heart porcine model. Copyright © 2015 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  11. Wilson loops in supersymmetric gauge theories

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pestun, Vasily

    This thesis is devoted to several exact computations in four-dimensional supersymmetric gauge field theories. In the first part of the thesis we prove conjecture due to Erickson-Semenoff-Zarembo and Drukker-Gross which relates supersymmetric circular Wilson loop operators in the N = 4 supersymmetric Yang-Mills theory with a Gaussian matrix model. We also compute the partition function and give a new matrix model formula for the expectation value of a supersymmetric circular Wilson loop operator for the pure N = 2 and the N* = 2 supersymmetric Yang-Mills theory on a four-sphere. Circular supersymmetric Wilson loops in four-dimensional N = 2 superconformal gauge theory are treated similarly. In the second part we consider supersymmetric Wilson loops of arbitrary shape restricted to a two-dimensional sphere in the four-dimensional N = 4 supersymmetric Yang-Mills theory. We show that expectation value for these Wilson loops can be exactly computed using a two-dimensional theory closely related to the topological two-dimensional Higgs-Yang-Mills theory, or two-dimensional Yang-Mills theory for the complexified gauge group.

  12. Proteomic analysis of two divergently responding potato genotypes (Solanum tuberosum L.) following osmotic stress treatment in vitro.

    PubMed

    Bündig, Christin; Jozefowicz, Anna Maria; Mock, Hans-Peter; Winkelmann, Traud

    2016-06-30

    Starch potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L.) are of interest for production of starch, ethanol, and biopolymers. Due to the predicted increase in drought periods, the breeding of starch potatoes for drought tolerance is essential. This study aims to elucidate the physiological mechanisms that give rise to drought tolerance. Two genotypes contrasting in drought tolerance were compared. We applied osmotic stress which is a known component of drought stress under in vitro conditions. Shoot tips were harvested after 11days of culture on control medium and medium supplied with 0.2M sorbitol. Their proteomes were analyzed using two-dimensional isoelectric focussing sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (2D-IEF/SDS-PAGE). Of a total of 679 distinct protein spots, 118 and 20 spots with differential abundance were found in the sensitive and the tolerant genotype, respectively, after the application of stress. Using mass spectrometry, the proteins in 100 differentially abundant spots were identified; a majority of these proteins were from the chloroplast. For the sensitive genotype, an increase in the abundance of proteinase inhibitors and their precursors, changes in stress responsive proteins and an altered RNA/DNA-binding response were observed. The differentially abundant spots of the tolerant genotype comprised one chaperone and one hydrogen peroxide detoxifying protein. Our findings reveal that the two genotypes have different responses to osmotic stress in terms of protein degradation and reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging and production. Our data suggest that the tolerant genotype might adjust to the applied stress more quickly. A comparative temporal analysis might provide further insights into these rapid changes and assist in the development of biomarkers. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  13. Proteomic analysis of salt stress and recovery in leaves of Vigna unguiculata cultivars differing in salt tolerance.

    PubMed

    de Abreu, Carlos Eduardo Braga; Araújo, Gyedre dos Santos; Monteiro-Moreira, Ana Cristina de Oliveira; Costa, José Hélio; Leite, Hugo de Brito; Moreno, Frederico Bruno Mendes Batista; Prisco, José Tarquinio; Gomes-Filho, Enéas

    2014-08-01

    Cowpea cultivars differing in salt tolerance reveal differences in protein profiles and adopt different strategies to overcome salt stress. Salt-tolerant cultivar shows induction of proteins related to photosynthesis and energy metabolism. Salinity is a major abiotic stress affecting plant cultivation and productivity. The objective of this study was to examine differential proteomic responses to salt stress in leaves of the cowpea cultivars Pitiúba (salt tolerant) and TVu 2331 (salt sensitive). Plants of both cultivars were subjected to salt stress (75 mM NaCl) followed by a recovery period of 5 days. Proteins extracted from leaves of both cultivars were analyzed by two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE) under salt stress and after recovery. In total, 22 proteins differentially regulated by both salt and recovery were identified by LC-ESI-MS/MS. Our current proteome data revealed that cowpea cultivars adopted different strategies to overcome salt stress. For the salt-tolerant cultivar (Pitiúba), increase in abundance of proteins involved in photosynthesis and energy metabolism, such as rubisco activase, ribulose-5-phosphate kinase (Ru5PK) (EC 2.7.1.19), glycine decarboxylase (EC 1.4.4.2) and oxygen-evolving enhancer (OEE) protein 2, was observed. However, these vital metabolic processes were more profoundly affected in salt-sensitive cultivar (TVu), as indicated by the down-regulation of OEE protein 1, Mn-stabilizing protein-II, carbonic anhydrase (EC 4.2.1.1) and Rubisco (EC 4.1.1.39), leading to energy reduction and a decline in plant growth. Other proteins differentially regulated in both cultivars corresponded to different physiological responses. Overall, our results provide information that could lead to a better understanding of the molecular basis of salt tolerance and sensitivity in cowpea plants.

  14. Comparative proteome analysis of drought-sensitive and drought-tolerant rapeseed roots and their hybrid F1 line under drought stress.

    PubMed

    Mohammadi, Payam Pour; Moieni, Ahmad; Komatsu, Setsuko

    2012-11-01

    Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.), which is the third leading source of vegetable oil, is sensitive to drought stress during the early vegetative growth stage. To investigate the initial response of rapeseed to drought stress, changes in the protein expression profiles of drought-sensitive (RGS-003) and drought-tolerant lines (SLM-003), and their F1 hybrid, were analyzed using a proteomics approach. Seven-day-old rapeseed seedlings were treated with drought stress by restricting water for 7 days, and proteins were extracted from roots and separated by two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. In the sensitive rapeseed line, 35 protein spots were differentially expressed under drought stress, and proteins related to metabolism, energy, disease/defense, and transport were decreased. In the tolerant line, 32 protein spots were differentially expressed under drought stress, and proteins involved in metabolism, disease/defense, and transport were increased, while energy-related proteins were decreased. Six protein spots in F1 hybrid were common among expressed proteins in the drought-sensitive and -tolerant lines. Notably, tubulin beta-2 and heat shock protein 70 were decreased in the drought-sensitive line and hybrid F1 plants, while jasmonate-inducible protein and 20S proteasome subunit PAF1 were increased in the F1 hybrids and drought-tolerant line. These results indicate that (1) V-type H(+) ATPase, plasma-membrane associated cation-binding protein, HSP 90, and elongation factor EF-2 have a role in the drought tolerance of rapeseed; (2) The decreased levels of heat shock protein 70 and tubulin beta-2 in the drought-sensitive and hybrid F1 lines might explain the reduced growth of these lines in drought conditions.

  15. Structure and topology of three-dimensional hydrocarbon polymers.

    PubMed

    Kondrin, Mikhail V; Lebed, Yulia B; Brazhkin, Vadim V

    2016-08-01

    A new family of three-dimensional hydrocarbon polymers which are more energetically favorable than benzene is proposed. Although structurally these polymers are closely related to well known diamond and lonsdaleite carbon structures, using topological arguments we demonstrate that they have no known structural analogs. Topological considerations also give some indication of possible methods of synthesis. Taking into account their exceptional optical, structural and mechanical properties these polymers might have interesting applications.

  16. Misfit stresses in a composite core-shell nanowire with an eccentric parallelepipedal core subjected to one-dimensional cross dilatation eigenstrain

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Krasnitckii, S. A.; Kolomoetc, D. R.; Smirnov, A. M.; Gutkin, M. Yu

    2017-05-01

    The boundary-value problem in the classical theory of elasticity for a core-shell nanowire with an eccentric parallelepipedal core of an arbitrary rectangular cross section is solved. The core is subjected to one-dimensional cross dilatation eigenstrain. The misfit stresses are given in a closed analytical form suitable for theoretical modeling of misfit accommodation in relevant heterostructures.

  17. Fullerenes and disk-fullerenes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Deza, M.; Dutour Sikirić, M.; Shtogrin, M. I.

    2013-08-01

    A geometric fullerene, or simply a fullerene, is the surface of a simple closed convex 3-dimensional polyhedron with only 5- and 6-gonal faces. Fullerenes are geometric models for chemical fullerenes, which form an important class of organic molecules. These molecules have been studied intensively in chemistry, physics, crystallography, and so on, and their study has led to the appearance of a vast literature on fullerenes in mathematical chemistry and combinatorial and applied geometry. In particular, several generalizations of the notion of a fullerene have been given, aiming at various applications. Here a new generalization of this notion is proposed: an n-disk-fullerene. It is obtained from the surface of a closed convex 3-dimensional polyhedron which has one n-gonal face and all other faces 5- and 6-gonal, by removing the n-gonal face. Only 5- and 6-disk-fullerenes correspond to geometric fullerenes. The notion of a geometric fullerene is therefore generalized from spheres to compact simply connected two-dimensional manifolds with boundary. A two-dimensional surface is said to be unshrinkable if it does not contain belts, that is, simple cycles consisting of 6-gons each of which has two neighbours adjacent at a pair of opposite edges. Shrinkability of fullerenes and n-disk-fullerenes is investigated. Bibliography: 87 titles.

  18. Critical non-Abelian vortex in four dimensions and little string theory

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shifman, M.; Yung, A.

    2017-08-01

    As was shown recently, non-Abelian vortex strings supported in four-dimensional N =2 supersymmetric QCD with the U(2) gauge group and Nf=4 quark multiplets (flavors) become critical superstrings. In addition to the translational moduli, non-Abelian strings under consideration carry six orientational and size moduli. Together, they form a ten-dimensional target space required for a superstring to be critical. The target space of the string sigma model is a product of the flat four-dimensional space and a Calabi-Yau noncompact threefold, namely, the conifold. We study closed string states which emerge in four dimensions and identify them with hadrons of four-dimensional N =2 QCD. One massless state was found previously; it emerges as a massless hypermultiplet associated with the deformation of the complex structure of the conifold. In this paper, we find a number of massive states. To this end, we exploit the approach used in LST little string theory, namely, the equivalence between the critical string on the conifold and noncritical c =1 string with the Liouville field and a compact scalar at the self-dual radius. The states we find carry "baryonic" charge (its definition differs from standard). We interpret them as "monopole necklaces" formed (at strong coupling) by the closed string with confined monopoles attached.

  19. Simulation of TunneLadder traveling-wave tube cold-test characteristics: Implementation of the three-dimensional, electromagnetic circuit analysis code micro-SOS

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Kory, Carol L.; Wilson, Jeffrey D.

    1993-01-01

    The three-dimensional, electromagnetic circuit analysis code, Micro-SOS, can be used to reduce expensive time-consuming experimental 'cold-testing' of traveling-wave tube (TWT) circuits. The frequency-phase dispersion characteristics and beam interaction impedance of a TunneLadder traveling-wave tube slow-wave structure were simulated using the code. When reasonable dimensional adjustments are made, computer results agree closely with experimental data. Modifications to the circuit geometry that would make the TunneLadder TWT easier to fabricate for higher frequency operation are explored.

  20. Evolutionary effects of metalliferous and other anomalous soils in South Central Africa

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

    Wild, H.; Bradshaw, A.D.

    1977-06-01

    The extensive metalliferous and other anomalous soils of South Central Africa have been in existence since before the origin of the angiosperms. So, they should have provided situations in which evolution could have continued uninterrupted, except by major climatic changes, over very long periods. The floras on these areas have therefore been examined, and compared to the situation in Northern Europe. The African anomalous floras could be expected to show: (a) a larger number of species which occupy the anomalous soils; this is certainly true; (b) a greater distinctiveness of the populations tolerating the anomalous soils; there is only amore » little evidence for this; (c) a greater number of tolerant populations which have attained the status of distinct endemic species but which have close relatives; there are a few examples of these; (d) a greater number of tolerant endemic species which have lost their close relatives; there are quite a large number of these, some specific to individual areas of a particular type of anomalous soil. The greater number of endemics is a definite characteristic of the floras. However, despite their great stability, the anomalous areas are not occupied by a flora consisting mostly of endemic species. It is clear that many of the plant populations on the areas must be of recent origin. This suggests that there have been sufficient climatic and other changes to eliminate many of the original colonists and allow the immigration of others.« less

  1. An experimental test of fitness variation across a hydrologic gradient predicts willow and poplar species distributions.

    PubMed

    Wei, Xiaojing; Savage, Jessica A; Riggs, Charlotte E; Cavender-Bares, Jeannine

    2017-05-01

    Environmental filtering is an important community assembly process influencing species distributions. Contrasting species abundance patterns along environmental gradients are commonly used to provide evidence for environmental filtering. However, the same abundance patterns may result from alternative or concurrent assembly processes. Experimental tests are an important means to decipher whether species fitness varies with environment, in the absence of dispersal constraints and biotic interactions, and to draw conclusions about the importance of environmental filtering in community assembly. We performed an experimental test of environmental filtering in 14 closely related willow and poplar species (family Salicaceae) by transplanting cuttings of each species into 40 common gardens established along a natural hydrologic gradient in the field, where competition was minimized and herbivory was controlled. We analyzed species fitness responses to the hydrologic environment based on cumulative growth and survival over two years using aster fitness models. We also examined variation in nine drought and flooding tolerance traits expected to contribute to performance based on a priori understanding of plant function in relation to water availability and stress. We found substantial evidence that environmental filtering along the hydrologic gradient played a critical role in determining species distributions. Fitness variation of each species in the field experiment was used to model their water table depth optima. These optima predicted 68% of the variation in species realized hydrologic niches based on peak abundance in naturally assembled communities in the surrounding region. Multiple traits associated with water transport efficiency and water stress tolerance were correlated with species hydrologic niches, but they did not necessarily covary with each other. As a consequence, species occupying similar hydrologic niches had different combinations of trait values. Moreover, individual traits were less phylogenetically conserved than species hydrologic niches and integrated water stress tolerance as determined by multiple traits. We conclude that differential fitness among species along the hydrologic gradient was the consequence of multiple traits associated with water transport and water stress tolerance, expressed in different combinations by different species. Varying environmental tolerance, in turn, played a critical role in driving niche segregation among close relatives along the hydrologic gradient. © 2017 by the Ecological Society of America.

  2. Cold acclimation alters DNA methylation patterns and confers tolerance to heat and increases growth rate in Brassica rapa

    PubMed Central

    Liu, Tongkun; Li, Ying; Duan, Weike; Huang, Feiyi

    2017-01-01

    Abstract Epigenetic modifications are implicated in plant adaptations to abiotic stresses. Exposure of plants to one stress can induce resistance to other stresses, a process termed cross-adaptation, which is not well understood. In this study, we aimed to unravel the epigenetic basis of elevated heat-tolerance in cold-acclimated Brassica rapa by conducting a genome-wide DNA methylation analysis of leaves from control (CK) and cold-acclimated (CA) plants. We found that both methylation and demethylation occurred during cold acclimation. Two significantly altered pathways, malate dehydrogenase activity and carbon fixation, and 1562 differentially methylated genes, including BramMDH1, BraKAT2, BraSHM4, and Bra4CL2, were identified in CA plants. Genetic validation and treatment of B. rapa with 5-aza-2-deoxycytidine (Aza) suggested that promoter demethylation of four candidate genes increased their transcriptional activities. Physiological analysis suggested that elevated heat-tolerance and high growth rate were closely related to increases in organic acids and photosynthesis, respectively. Functional analyses demonstrated that the candidate gene BramMDH1 (mMDH: mitochondrial malate dehydrogenase) directly enhances organic acids and photosynthesis to increase heat-tolerance and growth rate in Arabidopsis. However, Aza-treated B. rapa, which also has elevated BramMDH1 levels, did not exhibit enhanced heat-tolerance. We therefore suggest that DNA demethylation alone is not sufficient to increase heat-tolerance. This study demonstrates that altered DNA methylation contributes to cross-adaptation. PMID:28158841

  3. Boundary control for a flexible manipulator based on infinite dimensional disturbance observer

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jiang, Tingting; Liu, Jinkun; He, Wei

    2015-07-01

    This paper focuses on disturbance observer and boundary control design for the flexible manipulator in presence of both boundary disturbance and spatially distributed disturbance. Taking the infinite-dimensionality of the flexural dynamics into account, this study proposes a partial differential equation (PDE) model. Since the spatially distributed disturbance is infinite dimensional, it cannot be compensated by the typical disturbance observer, which is designed by finite dimensional approach. To estimate the spatially distributed disturbance, we propose a novel infinite dimensional disturbance observer (IDDO). Applying the IDDO as a feedforward compensator, a boundary control scheme is designed to regulate the joint position and eliminate the elastic vibration simultaneously. Theoretical analysis validates the stability of both the proposed disturbance observer and the boundary controller. The performance of the closed-loop system is demonstrated by numerical simulations.

  4. Super Yang Mills, matrix models and geometric transitions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ferrari, Frank

    2005-03-01

    I explain two applications of the relationship between four-dimensional N=1 supersymmetric gauge theories, zero-dimensional gauged matrix models, and geometric transitions in string theory. The first is related to the spectrum of BPS domain walls or BPS branes. It is shown that one can smoothly interpolate between a D-brane state, whose weak coupling tension scales as N˜1/g, and a closed string solitonic state, whose weak coupling tension scales as N˜1/gs2. This is part of a larger theory of N=1 quantum parameter spaces. The second is a new purely geometric approach to sum exactly over planar diagrams in zero dimension. It is an example of open/closed string duality. To cite this article: F. Ferrari, C. R. Physique 6 (2005).

  5. The salinity tolerant poplar database (STPD): a comprehensive database for studying tree salt-tolerant adaption and poplar genomics.

    PubMed

    Ma, Yazhen; Xu, Ting; Wan, Dongshi; Ma, Tao; Shi, Sheng; Liu, Jianquan; Hu, Quanjun

    2015-03-17

    Soil salinity is a significant factor that impairs plant growth and agricultural productivity, and numerous efforts are underway to enhance salt tolerance of economically important plants. Populus species are widely cultivated for diverse uses. Especially, they grow in different habitats, from salty soil to mesophytic environment, and are therefore used as a model genus for elucidating physiological and molecular mechanisms of stress tolerance in woody plants. The Salinity Tolerant Poplar Database (STPD) is an integrative database for salt-tolerant poplar genome biology. Currently the STPD contains Populus euphratica genome and its related genetic resources. P. euphratica, with a preference of the salty habitats, has become a valuable genetic resource for the exploitation of tolerance characteristics in trees. This database contains curated data including genomic sequence, genes and gene functional information, non-coding RNA sequences, transposable elements, simple sequence repeats and single nucleotide polymorphisms information of P. euphratica, gene expression data between P. euphratica and Populus tomentosa, and whole-genome alignments between Populus trichocarpa, P. euphratica and Salix suchowensis. The STPD provides useful searching and data mining tools, including GBrowse genome browser, BLAST servers and genome alignments viewer, which can be used to browse genome regions, identify similar sequences and visualize genome alignments. Datasets within the STPD can also be downloaded to perform local searches. A new Salinity Tolerant Poplar Database has been developed to assist studies of salt tolerance in trees and poplar genomics. The database will be continuously updated to incorporate new genome-wide data of related poplar species. This database will serve as an infrastructure for researches on the molecular function of genes, comparative genomics, and evolution in closely related species as well as promote advances in molecular breeding within Populus. The STPD can be accessed at http://me.lzu.edu.cn/stpd/ .

  6. Soybean Salt Tolerance 1 (GmST1) Reduces ROS Production, Enhances ABA Sensitivity, and Abiotic Stress Tolerance in Arabidopsis thaliana.

    PubMed

    Ren, Shuxin; Lyle, Chimera; Jiang, Guo-Liang; Penumala, Abhishek

    2016-01-01

    Abiotic stresses, including high soil salinity, significantly reduce crop production worldwide. Salt tolerance in plants is a complex trait and is regulated by multiple mechanisms. Understanding the mechanisms and dissecting the components on their regulatory pathways will provide new insights, leading to novel strategies for the improvement of salt tolerance in agricultural and economic crops of importance. Here we report that soybean salt tolerance 1, named GmST1, exhibited strong tolerance to salt stress in the Arabidopsis transgenic lines. The GmST1-overexpressed Arabidopsis also increased sensitivity to ABA and decreased production of reactive oxygen species under salt stress. In addition, GmST1 significantly improved drought tolerance in Arabidopsis transgenic lines. GmST1 belongs to a 3-prime part of Glyma.03g171600 gene in the current version of soybean genome sequence annotation. However, comparative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction analysis around Glyma.03g171600 genomic region confirmed that GmST1 might serve as an intact gene in soybean leaf tissues. Unlike Glyma.03g171600 which was not expressed in leaves, GmST1 was strongly induced by salt treatment in the leaf tissues. By promoter analysis, a TATA box was detected to be positioned close to GmST1 start codon and a putative ABRE and a DRE cis-acting elements were identified at about 1 kb upstream of GmST1 gene. The data also indicated that GmST1-transgenic lines survived under drought stress and showed a significantly lower water loss than non-transgenic lines. In summary, our results suggest that overexpression of GmST1 significantly improves Arabidopsis tolerance to both salt and drought stresses and the gene may be a potential candidate for genetic engineering of salt- and drought-tolerant crops.

  7. One-step synthesis of zero-dimensional hollow nanoporous gold nanoparticles with enhanced methanol electrooxidation performance.

    PubMed

    Pedireddy, Srikanth; Lee, Hiang Kwee; Tjiu, Weng Weei; Phang, In Yee; Tan, Hui Ru; Chua, Shu Quan; Troadec, Cedric; Ling, Xing Yi

    2014-09-17

    Nanoporous gold with networks of interconnected ligaments and highly porous structure holds stimulating technological implications in fuel cell catalysis. Current syntheses of nanoporous gold mainly revolve around de-alloying approaches that are generally limited by stringent and harsh multistep protocols. Here we develop a one-step solution phase synthesis of zero-dimensional hollow nanoporous gold nanoparticles with tunable particle size (150-1,000 nm) and ligament thickness (21-54 nm). With faster mass diffusivity, excellent specific electroactive surface area and large density of highly active surface sites, our zero-dimensional nanoporous gold nanoparticles exhibit ~1.4 times enhanced catalytic activity and improved tolerance towards carbonaceous species, demonstrating their superiority over conventional nanoporous gold sheets. Detailed mechanistic study also reveals the crucial heteroepitaxial growth of gold on the surface of silver chloride templates, implying that our synthetic protocol is generic and may be extended to the synthesis of other nanoporous metals via different templates.

  8. One-step synthesis of zero-dimensional hollow nanoporous gold nanoparticles with enhanced methanol electrooxidation performance

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pedireddy, Srikanth; Lee, Hiang Kwee; Tjiu, Weng Weei; Phang, In Yee; Tan, Hui Ru; Chua, Shu Quan; Troadec, Cedric; Ling, Xing Yi

    2014-09-01

    Nanoporous gold with networks of interconnected ligaments and highly porous structure holds stimulating technological implications in fuel cell catalysis. Current syntheses of nanoporous gold mainly revolve around de-alloying approaches that are generally limited by stringent and harsh multistep protocols. Here we develop a one-step solution phase synthesis of zero-dimensional hollow nanoporous gold nanoparticles with tunable particle size (150-1,000 nm) and ligament thickness (21-54 nm). With faster mass diffusivity, excellent specific electroactive surface area and large density of highly active surface sites, our zero-dimensional nanoporous gold nanoparticles exhibit ~1.4 times enhanced catalytic activity and improved tolerance towards carbonaceous species, demonstrating their superiority over conventional nanoporous gold sheets. Detailed mechanistic study also reveals the crucial heteroepitaxial growth of gold on the surface of silver chloride templates, implying that our synthetic protocol is generic and may be extended to the synthesis of other nanoporous metals via different templates.

  9. An Analytical Technique to Elucidate Field Impurities From Manufacturing Uncertainties of an Double Pancake Type HTS Insert for High Field LTS/HTS NMR Magnets

    PubMed Central

    Hahn, Seung-yong; Ahn, Min Cheol; Bobrov, Emanuel Saul; Bascuñán, Juan; Iwasa, Yukikazu

    2010-01-01

    This paper addresses adverse effects of dimensional uncertainties of an HTS insert assembled with double-pancake coils on spatial field homogeneity. Each DP coil was wound with Bi2223 tapes having dimensional tolerances larger than one order of magnitude of those accepted for LTS wires used in conventional NMR magnets. The paper presents: 1) dimensional variations measured in two LTS/HTS NMR magnets, 350 MHz (LH350) and 700 MHz (LH700), both built and operated at the Francis Bitter Magnet Laboratory; and 2) an analytical technique and its application to elucidate the field impurities measured with the two LTS/HTS magnets. Field impurities computed with the analytical model and those measured with the two LTS/HTS magnets agree quite well, demonstrating that this analytical technique is applicable to design a DP-assembled HTS insert with an improved field homogeneity for a high-field LTS/HTS NMR magnet. PMID:20407595

  10. Hip-hop solutions of the 2N-body problem

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Barrabés, Esther; Cors, Josep Maria; Pinyol, Conxita; Soler, Jaume

    2006-05-01

    Hip-hop solutions of the 2N-body problem with equal masses are shown to exist using an analytic continuation argument. These solutions are close to planar regular 2N-gon relative equilibria with small vertical oscillations. For fixed N, an infinity of these solutions are three-dimensional choreographies, with all the bodies moving along the same closed curve in the inertial frame.

  11. Measurement-based quantum computation on two-body interacting qubits with adiabatic evolution.

    PubMed

    Kyaw, Thi Ha; Li, Ying; Kwek, Leong-Chuan

    2014-10-31

    A cluster state cannot be a unique ground state of a two-body interacting Hamiltonian. Here, we propose the creation of a cluster state of logical qubits encoded in spin-1/2 particles by adiabatically weakening two-body interactions. The proposal is valid for any spatial dimensional cluster states. Errors induced by thermal fluctuations and adiabatic evolution within finite time can be eliminated ensuring fault-tolerant quantum computing schemes.

  12. Numerical Simulation of Current Artillery Charges Using the TDNOVA Code.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1986-06-01

    behavior was occasionally observed, particularly near the ends of the charge and particularly at increment-to-increment interfaces . Rather than expanding...between the charge sidewalls and the tube, had been observed at an early date by Kent. 3 The influence of axial ullage. or spaces between the ends of...subsided to within a user -selectable tolerance, the model is converted to a quasi-two-dimensional representation based on coupled regions of coaxial one

  13. Implementing virtual reality interfaces for the geosciences

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

    Bethel, W.; Jacobsen, J.; Austin, A.

    1996-06-01

    For the past few years, a multidisciplinary team of computer and earth scientists at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory has been exploring the use of advanced user interfaces, commonly called {open_quotes}Virtual Reality{close_quotes} (VR), coupled with visualization and scientific computing software. Working closely with industry, these efforts have resulted in an environment in which VR technology is coupled with existing visualization and computational tools. VR technology may be thought of as a user interface. It is useful to think of a spectrum, ranging the gamut from command-line interfaces to completely immersive environments. In the former, one uses the keyboard to enter threemore » or six-dimensional parameters. In the latter, three or six-dimensional information is provided by trackers contained either in hand-held devices or attached to the user in some fashion, e.g. attached to a head-mounted display. Rich, extensible and often complex languages are a vehicle whereby the user controls parameters to manipulate object position and location in a virtual world, but the keyboard is the obstacle in that typing is cumbersome, error-prone and typically slow. In the latter, the user can interact with these parameters by means of motor skills which are highly developed. Two specific geoscience application areas will be highlighted. In the first, we have used VR technology to manipulate three-dimensional input parameters, such as the spatial location of injection or production wells in a reservoir simulator. In the second, we demonstrate how VR technology has been used to manipulate visualization tools, such as a tool for computing streamlines via manipulation of a {open_quotes}rake.{close_quotes} The rake is presented to the user in the form of a {open_quotes}virtual well{close_quotes} icon, and provides parameters used by the streamlines algorithm.« less

  14. TWO-WAY FREEZE VALVE

    DOEpatents

    Lantz, K.D.; Clark, P.M.

    1960-01-01

    A valve for closing off the flow of radioactive and corrosive gases and liquids or mixtures thereof and forming a leak tight barrier is described. This valve has no mechanical moving parts which would require design to close tolerances and retention of the usual seal tighthess. Instead, there is provided a cavity in which a fusible metal is contained. Heating and cooling are provided to exercise control over the state of the metal. Baffle chambers are utilized to separate the molten fusible metal from the gas or liquid which is being passed through and return the molten metal to its cavity.

  15. Simulation of abuse tolerance of lithium-ion battery packs

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Spotnitz, Robert M.; Weaver, James; Yeduvaka, Gowri; Doughty, D. H.; Roth, E. P.

    A simple approach for using accelerating rate calorimetry data to simulate the thermal abuse resistance of battery packs is described. The thermal abuse tolerance of battery packs is estimated based on the exothermic behavior of a single cell and an energy balance than accounts for radiative, conductive, and convective heat transfer modes of the pack. For the specific example of a notebook computer pack containing eight 18650-size cells, the effects of cell position, heat of reaction, and heat-transfer coefficient are explored. Thermal runaway of the pack is more likely to be induced by thermal runaway of a single cell when that cell is in good contact with other cells and is close to the pack wall.

  16. Gas Foil Bearing Technology Advancements for Closed Brayton Cycle Turbines

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Howard, Samuel A.; Bruckner, Robert J.; DellaCorte, Christopher; Radil, Kevin C.

    2007-01-01

    Closed Brayton Cycle (CBC) turbine systems are under consideration for future space electric power generation. CBC turbines convert thermal energy from a nuclear reactor, or other heat source, to electrical power using a closed-loop cycle. The operating fluid in the closed-loop is commonly a high pressure inert gas mixture that cannot tolerate contamination. One source of potential contamination in a system such as this is the lubricant used in the turbomachine bearings. Gas Foil Bearings (GFB) represent a bearing technology that eliminates the possibility of contamination by using the working fluid as the lubricant. Thus, foil bearings are well suited to application in space power CBC turbine systems. NASA Glenn Research Center is actively researching GFB technology for use in these CBC power turbines. A power loss model has been developed, and the effects of a very high ambient pressure, start-up torque, and misalignment, have been observed and are reported here.

  17. Female chacma baboons form strong, equitable, and enduring social bonds

    PubMed Central

    Beehner, Jacinta C.; Bergman, Thore J.; Crockford, Catherine; Engh, Anne L.; Moscovice, Liza R.; Wittig, Roman M.; Seyfarth, Robert M.; Cheney, Dorothy L.

    2010-01-01

    Analyses of the pattern of associations, social interactions, coalitions, and aggression among chacma baboons (Papio hamadryas ursinus) in the Okavango Delta of Botswana over a 16-year period indicate that adult females form close, equitable, supportive, and enduring social relationships. They show strong and stable preferences for close kin, particularly their own mothers and daughters. Females also form strong attachments to unrelated females who are close to their own age and who are likely to be paternal half-sisters. Although absolute rates of aggression among kin are as high as rates of aggression among nonkin, females are more tolerant of close relatives than they are of others with whom they have comparable amounts of contact. These findings complement previous work which indicates that the strength of social bonds enhances the fitness of females in this population and support findings about the structure and function of social bonds in other primate groups. PMID:20976293

  18. Open-Loop HIRF Experiments Performed on a Fault Tolerant Flight Control Computer

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Koppen, Daniel M.

    1997-01-01

    During the third quarter of 1996, the Closed-Loop Systems Laboratory was established at the NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC) to study the effects of High Intensity Radiated Fields on complex avionic systems and control system components. This new facility provided a link and expanded upon the existing capabilities of the High Intensity Radiated Fields Laboratory at LaRC that were constructed and certified during 1995-96. The scope of the Closed-Loop Systems Laboratory is to place highly integrated avionics instrumentation into a high intensity radiated field environment, interface the avionics to a real-time flight simulation that incorporates aircraft dynamics, engines, sensors, actuators and atmospheric turbulence, and collect, analyze, and model aircraft performance. This paper describes the layout and functionality of the Closed-Loop Systems Laboratory, and the open-loop calibration experiments that led up to the commencement of closed-loop real-time flight experiments.

  19. Pore size engineering applied to the design of separators for nickel-hydrogen cells and batteries

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Abbey, K. M.; Britton, D. L.

    1983-01-01

    Pore size engineering in starved alkaline multiplate cells involves adopting techniques to widen the volume tolerance of individual cells. Separators with appropriate pore size distributions and wettability characteristics (capillary pressure considerations) to have wider volume tolerances and an ability to resist dimensional changes in the electrodes were designed. The separators studied for potential use in nickel-hydrogen cells consist of polymeric membranes as well as inorganic microporous mats. In addition to standard measurements, the resistance and distribution of electrolyte as a function of total cell electrolyte content were determined. New composite separators consisting of fibers, particles and/or binders deposited on Zircar cloth were developed in order to engineer the proper capillary pressure characteristics in the separator. These asymmetric separators were prepared from a variety of fibers, particles and binders.

  20. Anomaly in the band centre of the one-dimensional Anderson model

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kappus, M.; Wegner, F.

    1981-03-01

    We calculate the density of states and various characteristic lengths of the one-dimensional Anderson model in the limit of weak disorder. All these quantities show anomalous fluctuations near the band centre. This has already been observed for the density of states in a different model by Gorkov and Dorokhov, and is in close agreement with a Monte-Carlo calculation for the localization length by Czycholl, Kramer and Mac-Kinnon.

  1. Unsteady Separated Flows: Vorticity and Turbulence.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1987-04-06

    plate, the results are somewhat different . A vortex initiated before : max is obtained in the oscillation cycle yielded convection velocities not...in flat plate m resulted in a 6.25% advance in the cycle where the leading edge vortex was initiated; a value close to that measured using the NACA...three-dimensional model we have used to initiate the three- dimensional study of unsteady flows is a symmetric airfoil (NACA 0015) section fitted witL, a

  2. Improved irradiation tolerance of reactive gas pulse sputtered TiN coatings with a hybrid architecture of multilayered and compositionally graded structures

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liang, Wei; Yang, Jijun; Zhang, Feifei; Lu, Chenyang; Wang, Lumin; Liao, Jiali; Yang, Yuanyou; Liu, Ning

    2018-04-01

    This study investigates the improved irradiation tolerance of reactive gas pulse (RGP) sputtered TiN coatings which has hybrid architecture of multilayered and compositionally graded structures. The multilayered RGP-TiN coating is composed of hexagonal close-packed Ti phase and face-centred cubic TiN phase sublayers, where the former sublayer has a compositionally graded structure and the latter one maintains constant stoichiometric atomic ratio of Ti:N. After 100 keV He ion irradiation, the RGP-TiN coating exhibits improved irradiation resistance compared with its single layered (SL) counterpart. The size and density of He bubbles are smaller in the RGP-TiN coating than in the SL-TiN coating. The irradiation-induced surface blistering of the coatings shows a similar tendency. Meanwhile, the irradiation hardening and adhesion strength of the RGP-TiN coatings were not greatly affected by He irradiation. Moreover, the irradiation damage tolerance of the coatings can be well tuned by changing the undulation period number of N2 gas flow rate. Detailed analysis suggested that this improved irradiation tolerance could be related to the combined contribution of the multilayered and compositionally graded structures.

  3. A method of setting limits for the purpose of quality assurance

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sanghangthum, Taweap; Suriyapee, Sivalee; Kim, Gwe-Ya; Pawlicki, Todd

    2013-10-01

    The result from any assurance measurement needs to be checked against some limits for acceptability. There are two types of limits; those that define clinical acceptability (action limits) and those that are meant to serve as a warning that the measurement is close to the action limits (tolerance limits). Currently, there is no standard procedure to set these limits. In this work, we propose an operational procedure to set tolerance limits and action limits. The approach to establish the limits is based on techniques of quality engineering using control charts and a process capability index. The method is different for tolerance limits and action limits with action limits being categorized into those that are specified and unspecified. The procedure is to first ensure process control using the I-MR control charts. Then, the tolerance limits are set equal to the control chart limits on the I chart. Action limits are determined using the Cpm process capability index with the requirements that the process must be in-control. The limits from the proposed procedure are compared to an existing or conventional method. Four examples are investigated: two of volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) point dose quality assurance (QA) and two of routine linear accelerator output QA. The tolerance limits range from about 6% larger to 9% smaller than conventional action limits for VMAT QA cases. For the linac output QA, tolerance limits are about 60% smaller than conventional action limits. The operational procedure describe in this work is based on established quality management tools and will provide a systematic guide to set up tolerance and action limits for different equipment and processes.

  4. Genome resequencing and transcriptome profiling reveal structural diversity and expression patterns of constitutive disease resistance genes in Huanglongbing-tolerant Poncirus trifoliata and its hybrids

    PubMed Central

    Rawat, Nidhi; Kumar, Brajendra; Albrecht, Ute; Du, Dongliang; Huang, Ming; Yu, Qibin; Zhang, Yi; Duan, Yong-Ping; Bowman, Kim D; Gmitter, Fred G; Deng, Zhanao

    2017-01-01

    Huanglongbing (HLB) is the most destructive bacterial disease of citrus worldwide. While most citrus varieties are susceptible to HLB, Poncirus trifoliata, a close relative of Citrus, and some of its hybrids with Citrus are tolerant to HLB. No specific HLB tolerance genes have been identified in P. trifoliata but recent studies have shown that constitutive disease resistance (CDR) genes were expressed at much higher levels in HLB-tolerant Poncirus hybrids and the expression of CDR genes was modulated by Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas), the pathogen of HLB. The current study was undertaken to mine and characterize the CDR gene family in Citrus and Poncirus and to understand its association with HLB tolerance in Poncirus. We identified 17 CDR genes in two citrus genomes, deduced their structures, and investigated their phylogenetic relationships. We revealed that the expansion of the CDR family in Citrus seems to be due to segmental and tandem duplication events. Through genome resequencing and transcriptome sequencing, we identified eight CDR genes in the Poncirus genome (PtCDR1-PtCDR8). The number of SNPs was the highest in PtCDR2 and the lowest in PtCDR7. Most of the deletion and insertion events were observed in the UTR regions of Citrus and Poncirus CDR genes. PtCDR2 and PtCDR8 were in abundance in the leaf transcriptomes of two HLB-tolerant Poncirus genotypes and were also upregulated in HLB-tolerant, Poncirus hybrids as revealed by real-time PCR analysis. These two CDR genes seem to be good candidate genes for future studies of their role in citrus-CLas interactions. PMID:29152310

  5. Temperature tolerance of young-of-the-year lake whitefish, Coregonus clupeaformis

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Edsall, Thomas A.; Rottiers, Donald V.

    1976-01-01

    The ultimate upper lethal temperature of young-of-the-year lake whitefish, Coregonus clupeaformis, was 26.65 C; this value is closely similar to that reported for yearling bloaters,Coregonus hoyi (26.75 C) and young-of-the-year lake herring, Coregonus artedii (26.0 C).

  6. 17. VIEW LOOKING NORTHWEST AT BUILDING 44 (444) UNDER CONSTRUCTION ...

    Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

    17. VIEW LOOKING NORTHWEST AT BUILDING 44 (444) UNDER CONSTRUCTION IN 1952. BUILDING 444 WAS A HIGHLY SOPHISTICATED METAL FABRICATION AND MACHINE SHOP CAPABLE OF PRODUCING PARTS TO EXTREMELY CLOSE TOLERANCES FROM BERYLLIUM AND DEPLETED URANIUM (3/2/52). - Rocky Flats Plant, Bounded by Indiana Street & Routes 93, 128 & 72, Golden, Jefferson County, CO

  7. Levetiracetam-induced acute psychosis in a child

    PubMed Central

    Zaki, Syed Ahmed; Gupta, Saurabh

    2014-01-01

    Levetiracetam is well-tolerated and commonly used as a broad spectrum antiepileptic in both partial and generalized seizures. Few cases of levetiracetam-induced psychosis in children are reported in the literature. The present case of levetiracetam-induced acute psychosis highlights the adverse effect of this drug and also emphasizes the need for close monitoring of children on levetiracetam. PMID:24987186

  8. Reprogramming of a defense signaling pathway in rough lemon and sweet orange is a critical element of the early response to ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    Huanglongbing (HLB) in citrus infected by Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas) has caused tremendous losses to the citrus industry. No resistant genotypes have been identified in citrus species or close relatives. Among citrus varieties, rough lemon (Citrus jambhiri) has been considered tolerant...

  9. Specialised sympathetic neuroeffector associations in rat iris arterioles

    PubMed Central

    SANDOW, SHAUN L.; WHITEHOUSE, DREW; HILL, CARYL E.

    1998-01-01

    Vascular sympathetic neuroeffector associations have been examined in rat iris arterioles using serial section electron microscopy and reconstruction techniques. Examination of random sections showed that, of all profiles of varicosities (199) seen to lie closer than 4 μm to vascular smooth muscle cells, only a small proportion (29/199) were found in close association with vascular smooth muscle cells, where adjacent membranes were separated by less than 100 nm. However, serial section examination, from intervaricose region to intervaricose region, of 79 varicosities similarly observed lying within 4 μm of vascular smooth muscle cells showed that 54 formed close associations with vascular smooth muscle cells. In serial sections, all these varicosities were also closely associated with melanocytes and of the 25 remaining varicosities, 22 formed close associations with melanocytes alone, whilst 3 did not come into close association with any effector cell. The increased observation of close associations with vascular smooth muscle cells in serial sections, compared with random sections, is consistent with the demonstration that the area of contact only occupies, on average, a small percentage (5%) of the total surface area of the varicosity as seen in the 3-dimensional reconstructions. In both random and serial sections, close associations were observed between varicosities and vascular smooth muscle cells or melanocytes irrespective of whether fibres were present singly or in small nerve bundles. Three-dimensional reconstruction of associations of varicosities and vascular smooth muscle cells demonstrated several common features, such as accumulations of synaptic vesicles and loss of Schwann cell covering at the region of membrane facing the effector cell. The similarity in the appearance of the neuroeffector association seen in this study and those described in previous studies provides evidence for the existence of a common sympathetic neuroeffector association, irrespective of the receptor subtype involved in neurotransmission. PMID:9568560

  10. Proteomic changes in rice leaves grown under open field high temperature stress conditions.

    PubMed

    Das, Smruti; Krishnan, P; Mishra, Vagish; Kumar, Ritesh; Ramakrishnan, B; Singh, N K

    2015-11-01

    The interactive effect of temperature with other climatic and soil factors has profound influences on the growth and development of rice. The responses of rice to high temperatures under field conditions are more important than those under the controlled conditions. To understand the genes associated with high temperature stress response in general and tolerance in particular, the expression of all those genes associated with adaptation and tolerance in rice requires proteomic analysis. High temperature stress-tolerant cv. N22 was subjected to 28/18 °C (control) and 42/32 °C (high temperature stress) at flowering stage. The plants were grown in the field under the free air temperature increment condition. The proteomic changes in rice leaves due to high temperature stress were discussed. The proteomes of leaves had about 3000 protein spots, reproducibly detected on 2-dimensional electrophoretic gels with 573 proteins differentially expressed between the control and the high temperature treatments. Putative physiological functions suggested five categories such as growth (15.4%), heat shock proteins (7.7%), regulatory proteins (26.9%), redox homeostasis proteins (11.5%) and energy and metabolism (38.5%) related proteins. The results of the present study suggest that cv. N22, an agronomically recognized temperature tolerant rice cultivar copes with high temperature stress in a complex manner. Several functional proteins play important roles in its responses. The predicted climate change events necessitate more studies using this cultivar under different simulated ecological conditions to identify proteomic changes and the associated genes to be used as biomarkers and to gain a better understanding on the biochemical pathways involved in tolerance.

  11. Differentially expressed genes and proteins upon drought acclimation in tolerant and sensitive genotypes of Coffea canephora

    PubMed Central

    Marraccini, Pierre; Vinecky, Felipe; Alves, Gabriel S.C.; Ramos, Humberto J.O.; Elbelt, Sonia; Vieira, Natalia G.; Carneiro, Fernanda A.; Sujii, Patricia S.; Alekcevetch, Jean C.; Silva, Vânia A.; DaMatta, Fábio M.; Ferrão, Maria A.G.; Leroy, Thierry; Pot, David; Vieira, Luiz G.E.; da Silva, Felipe R.; Andrade, Alan C.

    2012-01-01

    The aim of this study was to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying drought acclimation in coffee plants by the identification of candidate genes (CGs) using different approaches. The first approach used the data generated during the Brazilian Coffee expressed sequence tag (EST) project to select 13 CGs by an in silico analysis (electronic northern). The second approach was based on screening macroarrays spotted with plasmid DNA (coffee ESTs) with separate hybridizations using leaf cDNA probes from drought-tolerant and susceptible clones of Coffea canephora var. Conilon, grown under different water regimes. This allowed the isolation of seven additional CGs. The third approach used two-dimensional gel electrophoresis to identify proteins displaying differential accumulation in leaves of drought-tolerant and susceptible clones of C. canephora. Six of them were characterized by MALDI-TOF-MS/MS (matrix-assisted laser desorption-time of flight-tandem mass spectrometry) and the corresponding proteins were identified. Finally, additional CGs were selected from the literature, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was performed to analyse the expression of all identified CGs. Altogether, >40 genes presenting differential gene expression during drought acclimation were identified, some of them showing different expression profiles between drought-tolerant and susceptible clones. Based on the obtained results, it can be concluded that factors involved a complex network of responses probably involving the abscisic signalling pathway and nitric oxide are major molecular determinants that might explain the better efficiency in controlling stomata closure and transpiration displayed by drought-tolerant clones of C. canephora. PMID:22511801

  12. Proteomic analysis of naturally occurring boron tolerant plant Gypsophila sphaerocephala L. in response to high boron concentration.

    PubMed

    Tombuloglu, Huseyin; Tombuloglu, Guzin; Sakcali, Mehmet Serdal; Turkan, Ali; Hakeem, Khalid Rehman; Alharby, Hesham F; Fahd, Shah; Abdul, Waseem Mohammed

    2017-09-01

    Gypsophila sphaerocephala is a naturally Boron (B) tolerant species that can grow around the B mining areas in Turkey, where the B concentration in soil reaches a lethal dose for plants (up to ∼8900mgkg -1 (∼140mM). While its interesting survival capacity in extremely B containing soils, any molecular research has been conducted to understand its high tolerance mechanism yet. In the present study, we have performed a proteomic analysis of this plant to understand its high tolerance towards B-stress. Seedlings of G. sphaerocephala were collected from B mining area and were adapted to greenhouse conditions. An excessive level of Boric acid (3mM)was applied to the plantlets for 24h. Total proteins were precipitated by using TCA/Acetone method. 2D-PAGE (two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis) analysis of the proteins was carried out. Out of 121 protein spots, 14 were differentially expressed between the control and B-exposed G. sphaerocephala roots. The peptide profile of each protein was determined by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometer after in-gel trypsin digestion. The identified proteins are involved in different mechanisms in the cell such as in antioxidant mechanism, energy metabolism, protein degradation, lipid biosynthesis and signaling pathways, indicating that G. sphaerocephala has multiple cooperating mechanisms to protect itself from high B levels. Overall, this study sheds light on to the possible regulatory switches (gene/s) controlling the B-tolerance proteins and their possible roles in plant's defense mechanism. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

  13. Structural basis of the broad substrate tolerance of the antibody 7B9-catalyzed hydrolysis of p-nitrobenzyl esters.

    PubMed

    Miyamoto, Naoki; Yoshimura, Miho; Okubo, Yuji; Suzuki-Nagata, Kayo; Tsumuraya, Takeshi; Ito, Nobutoshi; Fujii, Ikuo

    2018-05-01

    Catalytic antibody 7B9, which was elicited against p-nitrobenzyl phosphonate transition-state analogue (TSA) 1, hydrolyzes a wide range of p-nitrobenzyl monoesters and thus shows broad substrate tolerance. To reveal the molecular basis of this substrate tolerance, the 7B9 Fab fragment complexed with p-nitrobenzyl ethylphosphonate 2 was crystallized and the three-dimensional structure was determined. The crystal structure showed that the strongly antigenic p-nitrobenzyl moiety occupied a relatively shallow antigen-combining site and therefore the alkyl moiety was located outside the pocket. These results support the observed broad substrate tolerance of 7B9 and help rationalize how 7B9 can catalyze various p-nitrobenzyl ester derivatives. The crystal structure also showed that three amino acid residues (Asn H33 , Ser H95 , and Arg L96 ) were placed in key positions to form hydrogen bonds with the phosphonate oxygens of the transitions-state analogue. In addition, the role of these amino acid residues was examined by site-directed mutagenesis to alanine: all mutants (Asn H33 Ala, Ser H95 Ala, and Arg L96 Ala) showed no detectable catalytic activity. Coupling the findings from our structural studies with these mutagenesis results clarified the structural basis of the observed broad substrate tolerance of antibody 7B9-catalyzed hydrolyses. Our findings provide new strategies for the generation of catalytic antibodies that accept a broad range of substrates, aiding their practical application in synthetic organic chemistry. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  14. Support Vector Machine-Based Endmember Extraction

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

    Filippi, Anthony M; Archibald, Richard K

    Introduced in this paper is the utilization of Support Vector Machines (SVMs) to automatically perform endmember extraction from hyperspectral data. The strengths of SVM are exploited to provide a fast and accurate calculated representation of high-dimensional data sets that may consist of multiple distributions. Once this representation is computed, the number of distributions can be determined without prior knowledge. For each distribution, an optimal transform can be determined that preserves informational content while reducing the data dimensionality, and hence, the computational cost. Finally, endmember extraction for the whole data set is accomplished. Results indicate that this Support Vector Machine-Based Endmembermore » Extraction (SVM-BEE) algorithm has the capability of autonomously determining endmembers from multiple clusters with computational speed and accuracy, while maintaining a robust tolerance to noise.« less

  15. A bio-inspired N-doped porous carbon electrocatalyst with hierarchical superstructure for efficient oxygen reduction reaction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Miao, Yue-E.; Yan, Jiajie; Ouyang, Yue; Lu, Hengyi; Lai, Feili; Wu, Yue; Liu, Tianxi

    2018-06-01

    The bio-inspired hierarchical "grape cluster" superstructure provides an effective integration of one-dimensional carbon nanofibers (CNF) with isolated carbonaceous nanoparticles into three-dimensional (3D) conductive frameworks for efficient electron and mass transfer. Herein, a 3D N-doped porous carbon electrocatalyst consisting of carbon nanofibers with grape-like N-doped hollow carbon particles (CNF@NC) has been prepared through a simple electrospinning strategy combined with in-situ growth and carbonization processes. Such a bio-inspired hierarchically organized conductive network largely facilitates both the mass diffusion and electron transfer during the oxygen reduction reactions (ORR). Therefore, the metal-free CNF@NC catalyst demonstrates superior catalytic activity with an absolute four-electron transfer mechanism, strong methanol tolerance and good long-term stability towards ORR in alkaline media.

  16. An Alternate Method to Springback Compensation for Sheet Metal Forming

    PubMed Central

    Omar, Badrul; Jusoff, Kamaruzaman

    2014-01-01

    The aim of this work is to improve the accuracy of cold stamping product by accommodating springback. This is a numerical approach to improve the accuracy of springback analysis and die compensation process combining the displacement adjustment (DA) method and the spring forward (SF) algorithm. This alternate hybrid method (HM) is conducted by firstly employing DA method followed by the SF method instead of either DA or SF method individually. The springback shape and the target part are used to optimize the die surfaces compensating springback. The hybrid method (HM) algorithm has been coded in Fortran and tested in two- and three-dimensional models. By implementing the HM, the springback error can be decreased and the dimensional deviation falls in the predefined tolerance range. PMID:25165738

  17. Vertebrate defense against parasites: Interactions between avoidance, resistance, and tolerance.

    PubMed

    Klemme, Ines; Karvonen, Anssi

    2017-01-01

    Hosts can utilize different types of defense against the effects of parasitism, including avoidance, resistance, and tolerance. Typically, there is tremendous heterogeneity among hosts in these defense mechanisms that may be rooted in the costs associated with defense and lead to trade-offs with other life-history traits. Trade-offs may also exist between the defense mechanisms, but the relationships between avoidance, resistance, and tolerance have rarely been studied. Here, we assessed these three defense traits under common garden conditions in a natural host-parasite system, the trematode eye-fluke Diplostomum pseudospathaceum and its second intermediate fish host. We looked at host individuals originating from four genetically distinct populations of two closely related salmonid species (Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar and sea trout, Salmo trutta trutta ) to estimate the magnitude of variation in these defense traits and the relationships among them. We show species-specific variation in resistance and tolerance and population-specific variation in resistance. Further, we demonstrate evidence for a trade-off between resistance and tolerance. Our results suggest that the variation in host defense can at least partly result from a compromise between different interacting defense traits, the relative importance of which is likely to be shaped by environmental components. Overall, this study emphasizes the importance of considering different components of the host defense system when making predictions on the outcome of host-parasite interactions.

  18. Comparative proteomic analysis of differentially expressed proteins in the early milky stage of rice grains during high temperature stress

    PubMed Central

    Liao, Jiang-Lin; Zhou, Hui-Wen; Huang, Ying-Jin

    2014-01-01

    Rice yield and quality are adversely affected by high temperatures, and these effects are more pronounced at the ‘milky stage’ of the rice grain ripening phase. Identifying the functional proteins involved in the response of rice to high temperature stress may provide the basis for improving heat tolerance in rice. In the present study, a comparative proteomic analysis of paired, genetically similar heat-tolerant and heat-sensitive rice lines was conducted. Two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE) revealed a total of 27 differentially expressed proteins in rice grains, predominantly from the heat-tolerant lines. The protein profiles clearly indicated variations in protein expression between the heat-tolerant and heat-sensitive rice lines. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight/time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF/TOF MS) analysis revealed that 25 of the 27 differentially displayed proteins were homologous to known functional proteins. These homologous proteins were involved in biosynthesis, energy metabolism, oxidation, heat shock metabolism, and the regulation of transcription. Seventeen of the 25 genes encoding the differentially displayed proteins were mapped to rice chromosomes according to the co-segregating conditions between the simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers and the target genes in recombinant inbred lines (RILs). The proteins identified in the present study provide a basis to elucidate further the molecular mechanisms underlying the adaptation of rice to high temperature stress. PMID:24376254

  19. Solar Concentrator Advanced Development Program

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Knasel, Don; Ehresman, Derik

    1989-01-01

    The Solar Concentrator Advanced Development Project has successfully designed, fabricated, and tested a full scale prototypical solar dynamic concentrator for space station applications. A Truss Hexagonal Panel reflector was selected as a viable solar concentrator concept to be used for space station applications. This concentrator utilizes a modular design approach and is flexible in attainable flux profiles and assembly techniques. The detailed design of the concentrator, which included structural, thermal and optical analysis, identified the feasibility of the design and specific technologies that were required to fabricate it. The needed surface accuracy of the reflectors surface was found to be very tight, within 5 mrad RMS slope error, and results in very close tolerances for fabrication. To meet the design requirements, a modular structure composed of hexagonal panels was used. The panels, made up of graphite epoxy box beams provided the strength, stiffness and dimensional stability needed. All initial project requirements were met or exceeded by hardware demonstration. Initial testing of structural repeatability of a seven panel portion of the concentrator was followed by assembly and testing of the full nineteen panel structure. The testing, which consisted of theodolite and optical measurements over an assembly-disassembly-reassembly cycle, demonstrated that the concentrator maintained the as-built contour and optical characteristics. The facet development effort within the project, which included developing the vapor deposited reflective facet, produced a viable design with demonstrated optical characteristics that are within the project goals.

  20. Modeling the surface contamination of dental titanium investment castings.

    PubMed

    Atwood, R C; Lee, P D; Curtis, R V

    2005-02-01

    The objective of this study was to develop a computational tool for assisting the design of titanium dental castings with minimal defects and to compare computational simulations with casting experiments. Modeling. An in-house cellular-automata solidification and finite-difference diffusion program was coupled with a commercial casting program and applied to (a) simple geometric wedge models and (b) a 3D-laser scan of a molar crown casting. Experimental. Wedges and molar crowns were hand-waxed and investment cast in commercial purity grade 1 (CP-1) titanium by a commercial dental laboratory. The castings were sectioned and analyzed using light and scanning electron microscopy, X-ray microanalysis, and microhardness testing. In the wedge sample, contamination with impurities (Al, Si), including intermetallic precipitates, was found to extend to a depth ranging from 30 to 120 microm depending on the section thickness and hence the local cooling rate. Microstructural and mechanical (hardness) effects were found to a depth ranging from 80 to 250 microm. The coupled micro/macro model predictions showed reasonable agreement for the pattern of contamination. Dental and medical applications demand close dimensional tolerance and freedom from surface impurities and structural flaws in castings having unique shapes. The ability to predict the structural, mechanical, and chemical changes resulting from the casting process will help to design the casting and post-casting processes to minimize these problems.

  1. Flexible fiber in interaction with a dense granular flow close to the jamming transition

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Algarra, Nicolas; Leang, Marguerite; Lazarus, Arnaud; Vandembroucq, Damien; Kolb, Evelyne

    2017-06-01

    We propose a new fluid/structure interaction in the unusual case of a dense granular medium flowing against an elastic fiber acting as a flexible intruder. We study experimentally the reconfiguration and the forces exerted on the flexible fiber produced by the flow at a constant and low velocity of a two-dimensional disordered packing of grains close but below the jamming transition.

  2. An investigation of boron-toxicity in leaves of two citrus species differing in boron-tolerance using comparative proteomics.

    PubMed

    Sang, Wen; Huang, Zeng-Rong; Qi, Yi-Ping; Yang, Lin-Tong; Guo, Peng; Chen, Li-Song

    2015-06-18

    Limited data are available on boron (B)-toxicity-responsive proteins in plants. We first applied 2-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE) to compare the effects of B-toxicity on leaf protein profiles in B-tolerant Citrus sinensis and B-intolerant Citrus grandis seedlings, and identified 27 (20) protein species with increased abundances and 23 (25) protein species with decreased abundances from the former (latter). Generally speaking, B-toxicity increased the abundances of protein species involved in antioxidation and detoxification, proteolysis, cell transport, and decreased the abundances of protein species involved in protein biosynthesis in the two citrus species. The higher B-tolerance of C. sinensis might include following several aspects: (a) protein species related to photosynthesis and energy metabolism in C. sinensis leaves were more adaptive to B-toxicity than in C. grandis ones, which was responsible for the higher photosynthesis and for the better maintenance of energy homeostasis in the former; and (b) the increased requirement for detoxification of reactive oxygen species and cytotoxic compounds due to decreased photosynthesis was less in B-toxic C. sinensis leaves than in B-toxic C. grandis ones. B-toxicity-responsive protein species involved in coenzyme biosynthesis differed between the two species, which might also contribute to the higher B-tolerance of C. sinensis. B-toxicity occurs in many regions all over the world, especially in arid and semiarid regions due to the raising of B-rich water tables with high B accumulated in topsoil. In China, B-toxicity often occurs in some citrus orchards. However, the mechanisms of citrus B-tolerance are still not fully understood. Here, we first used 2-DE to identify some new B-toxicity-responsive-proteins involved in carbohydrate and energy metabolism, antioxidation and detoxification, signal transduction and nucleotide metabolism. Our results showed that proteins involved in photosynthesis and energy metabolism displayed more adaptive to B-toxicity in B-tolerant C. sinensis than in B-intolerant C. grandis, which might play a key role in citrus B-tolerance. Therefore, our results reveal some new mechanisms on plant B-response and tolerance. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  3. From Two‐ to Three‐Dimensional Structures of a Supertetrahedral Boran Using Density Functional Calculations

    PubMed Central

    Getmanskii, Iliya V.; Steglenko, Dmitrii V.; Koval, Vitaliy V.; Zaitsev, Stanislav A.

    2017-01-01

    Abstract With help of the DFT calculations and imposing of periodic boundary conditions the geometrical and electronic structures were investigated of two‐ and three‐dimensional boron systems designed on the basis of graphane and diamond lattices in which carbons were replaced with boron tetrahedrons. The consequent studies of two‐ and three‐layer systems resulted in the construction of a three‐dimensional supertetrahedral borane crystal structure. The two‐dimensional supertetrahedral borane structures with less than seven layers are dynamically unstable. At the same time the three‐dimensional superborane systems were found to be dynamically stable. Lack of the forbidden electronic zone for the studied boron systems testifies that these structures can behave as good conductors. The low density of the supertetrahedral borane crystal structures (0.9 g cm−3) is close to that of water, which offers the perspective for their application as aerospace and cosmic materials. PMID:28402596

  4. Brane surgery: energy conditions, traversable wormholes, and voids

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Barceló1, C.; Visser, M.

    2000-09-01

    Branes are ubiquitous elements of any low-energy limit of string theory. We point out that negative tension branes violate all the standard energy conditions of the higher-dimensional spacetime they are embedded in; this opens the door to very peculiar solutions of the higher-dimensional Einstein equations. Building upon the (/3+1)-dimensional implementation of fundamental string theory, we illustrate the possibilities by considering a toy model consisting of a (/2+1)-dimensional brane propagating through our observable (/3+1)-dimensional universe. Developing a notion of ``brane surgery'', based on the Israel-Lanczos-Sen ``thin shell'' formalism of general relativity, we analyze the dynamics and find traversable wormholes, closed baby universes, voids (holes in the spacetime manifold), and an evasion (not a violation) of both the singularity theorems and the positive mass theorem. These features appear generic to any brane model that permits negative tension branes: This includes the Randall-Sundrum models and their variants.

  5. Thermally induced rarefied gas flow in a three-dimensional enclosure with square cross-section

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhu, Lianhua; Yang, Xiaofan; Guo, Zhaoli

    2017-12-01

    Rarefied gas flow in a three-dimensional enclosure induced by nonuniform temperature distribution is numerically investigated. The enclosure has a square channel-like geometry with alternatively heated closed ends and lateral walls with a linear temperature distribution. A recently proposed implicit discrete velocity method with a memory reduction technique is used to numerically simulate the problem based on the nonlinear Shakhov kinetic equation. The Knudsen number dependencies of the vortices pattern, slip velocity at the planar walls and edges, and heat transfer are investigated. The influences of the temperature ratio imposed at the ends of the enclosure and the geometric aspect ratio are also evaluated. The overall flow pattern shows similarities with those observed in two-dimensional configurations in literature. However, features due to the three-dimensionality are observed with vortices that are not identified in previous studies on similar two-dimensional enclosures at high Knudsen and small aspect ratios.

  6. Instantaneous three-dimensional visualization of concentration distributions in turbulent flows with crossed-plane laser-induced fluorescence imaging

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hoffmann, A.; Zimmermann, F.; Scharr, H.; Krömker, S.; Schulz, C.

    2005-01-01

    A laser-based technique for measuring instantaneous three-dimensional species concentration distributions in turbulent flows is presented. The laser beam from a single laser is formed into two crossed light sheets that illuminate the area of interest. The laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) signal emitted from excited species within both planes is detected with a single camera via a mirror arrangement. Image processing enables the reconstruction of the three-dimensional data set in close proximity to the cutting line of the two light sheets. Three-dimensional intensity gradients are computed and compared to the two-dimensional projections obtained from the two directly observed planes. Volume visualization by digital image processing gives unique insight into the three-dimensional structures within the turbulent processes. We apply this technique to measurements of toluene-LIF in a turbulent, non-reactive mixing process of toluene and air and to hydroxyl (OH) LIF in a turbulent methane-air flame upon excitation at 248 nm with a tunable KrF excimer laser.

  7. Columnar organization of orientation domains in V1

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liedtke, Joscha; Wolf, Fred

    In the primary visual cortex (V1) of primates and carnivores, the functional architecture of basic stimulus selectivities appears similar across cortical layers (Hubel & Wiesel, 1962) justifying the use of two-dimensional cortical models and disregarding organization in the third dimension. Here we show theoretically that already small deviations from an exact columnar organization lead to non-trivial three-dimensional functional structures. We extend two-dimensional random field models (Schnabel et al., 2007) to a three-dimensional cortex by keeping a typical scale in each layer and introducing a correlation length in the third, columnar dimension. We examine in detail the three-dimensional functional architecture for different cortical geometries with different columnar correlation lengths. We find that (i) topological defect lines are generally curved and (ii) for large cortical curvatures closed loops and reconnecting topological defect lines appear. This theory extends the class of random field models by introducing a columnar dimension and provides a systematic statistical assessment of the three-dimensional functional architecture of V1 (see also (Tanaka et al., 2011)).

  8. Drought coping strategies in cotton: increased crop per drop.

    PubMed

    Ullah, Abid; Sun, Heng; Yang, Xiyan; Zhang, Xianlong

    2017-03-01

    The growth and yield of many crops, including cotton, are affected by water deficit. Cotton has evolved drought specific as well as general morpho-physiological, biochemical and molecular responses to drought stress, which are discussed in this review. The key physiological responses against drought stress in cotton, including stomata closing, root development, cellular adaptations, photosynthesis, abscisic acid (ABA) and jasmonic acid (JA) production and reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging, have been identified by researchers. Drought stress induces the expression of stress-related transcription factors and genes, such as ROS scavenging, ABA or mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) signalling genes, which activate various drought-related pathways to induce tolerance in the plant. It is crucial to elucidate and induce drought-tolerant traits via quantitative trait loci (QTL) analysis, transgenic approaches and exogenous application of substances. The current review article highlights the natural as well as engineered drought tolerance strategies in cotton. © 2017 The Authors. Plant Biotechnology Journal published by Society for Experimental Biology and The Association of Applied Biologists and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  9. Human psychopharmacology of N,N-dimethyltryptamine.

    PubMed

    Strassman, R J

    1996-01-01

    We generated dose-response data for the endogenous and ultra-short-acting hallucinogen, N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT), in a cohort of experienced hallucinogen users, measuring multiple biological and psychological outcome measures. Subjective responses were quantified with a new rating scale, the HRS, which provided better resolution of dose effects than did the biological variables. A tolerance study then was performed, in which volunteers received four closely spaced hallucinogenic doses of DMT. Subjective responses demonstrated no tolerance, while biological measures were inconsistently reduced over the course of the sessions. Thus, DMT remains unique among classic hallucinogens in its inability to induce tolerance to its psychological effects. To assess the role of the 5-HT1A site in mediating DMT's effects, a pindolol pre-treatment study was performed. Pindolol significantly increased psychological responses to DMT, suggesting a buffering effect of 5-HT1A agonism on 5-HT2-mediated psychedelic effects. These data are opposite to those described in lower animal models of hallucinogens' mechanisms of action.

  10. Linezolid in late-chronic prosthetic joint infection caused by gram-positive bacteria.

    PubMed

    Cobo, Javier; Lora-Tamayo, Jaime; Euba, Gorane; Jover-Sáenz, Alfredo; Palomino, Julián; del Toro, Ma Dolores; Rodríguez-Pardo, Dolors; Riera, Melchor; Ariza, Javier

    2013-05-01

    Linezolid may be an interesting alternative for prosthetic joint infection (PJI) due to its bioavailability and its antimicrobial spectrum. However, experience in this setting is scarce. The aim of the study was to assess linezolid's clinical and microbiological efficacy, and also its tolerance. This was a prospective, multicenter, open-label, non-comparative study of 25 patients with late-chronic PJI caused by Gram-positive bacteria managed with a two-step exchange procedure plus 6 weeks of linezolid. Twenty-two (88%) patients tolerated linezolid without major adverse effects, although a global decrease in the platelet count was observed. Three patients were withdrawn because of major toxicity, which reversed after linezolid stoppage. Among patients who completed treatment, 19 (86%) demonstrated clinical and microbiological cure. Two patients presented with clinical and microbiological failure, and one showed clinical cure and microbiological failure. In conclusion, linezolid showed good results in chronic PJI managed with a two-step exchange procedure. Tolerance seems acceptable, though close surveillance is required. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  11. Approximate series solution of multi-dimensional, time fractional-order (heat-like) diffusion equations using FRDTM.

    PubMed

    Singh, Brajesh K; Srivastava, Vineet K

    2015-04-01

    The main goal of this paper is to present a new approximate series solution of the multi-dimensional (heat-like) diffusion equation with time-fractional derivative in Caputo form using a semi-analytical approach: fractional-order reduced differential transform method (FRDTM). The efficiency of FRDTM is confirmed by considering four test problems of the multi-dimensional time fractional-order diffusion equation. FRDTM is a very efficient, effective and powerful mathematical tool which provides exact or very close approximate solutions for a wide range of real-world problems arising in engineering and natural sciences, modelled in terms of differential equations.

  12. Approximate series solution of multi-dimensional, time fractional-order (heat-like) diffusion equations using FRDTM

    PubMed Central

    Singh, Brajesh K.; Srivastava, Vineet K.

    2015-01-01

    The main goal of this paper is to present a new approximate series solution of the multi-dimensional (heat-like) diffusion equation with time-fractional derivative in Caputo form using a semi-analytical approach: fractional-order reduced differential transform method (FRDTM). The efficiency of FRDTM is confirmed by considering four test problems of the multi-dimensional time fractional-order diffusion equation. FRDTM is a very efficient, effective and powerful mathematical tool which provides exact or very close approximate solutions for a wide range of real-world problems arising in engineering and natural sciences, modelled in terms of differential equations. PMID:26064639

  13. On the strain energy of laminated composite plates

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Atilgan, Ali R.; Hodges, Dewey H.

    1991-01-01

    The present effort to obtain the asymptotically correct form of the strain energy in inhomogeneous laminated composite plates proceeds from the geometrically nonlinear elastic theory-based three-dimensional strain energy by decomposing the nonlinear three-dimensional problem into a linear, through-the-thickness analysis and a nonlinear, two-dimensional analysis analyzing plate formation. Attention is given to the case in which each lamina exhibits material symmetry about its middle surface, deriving closed-form analytical expressions for the plate elastic constants and the displacement and strain distributions through the plate's thickness. Despite the simplicity of the plate strain energy's form, there are no restrictions on the magnitudes of displacement and rotation measures.

  14. Wafer-Scale Integration of Systolic Arrays,

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1985-10-01

    hus wtha rbaiith hig robabili, e aubrbe orutysta mostck b(e)adstotoefwsi the cenofther cnnel thati are connted to (g.The kery ato the alevel of t...problems considered heretofore in this paper also have an interpretation in a purely graph theoretic model. Suppose we are given a two-dimensional...graphs," Magyar 7Td. Akad. Math . Kut. Int. Kozl, Vol. 5, 1960, pp. 17-61. [6] D. Fussell and P. Varman, "Fault-tolerant wafer-scale architectures for

  15. Three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy for squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus: a prospective phase I/II study.

    PubMed

    Wu, Kai-Liang; Chen, Guei-Yuan; Xu, Zhi-Yong; Fu, Xiao-Long; Qian, Hao; Jiang, Guo-Liang

    2009-12-01

    A prospective phase I-II study was conducted to determine the tolerance and local control rate of three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3-DCRT) for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Thirty patients underwent 3-DCRT for thoracic esophageal SCC. PTV1 composed of a 1.2-1.5 cm margin lateral around GTV and 3.0 cm margin superior/inferior of GTV. PTV2 encompassed GTV with a margin of 0.5-0.7 cm. The dose for PTV1 was 50 Gy in 2 Gy daily fractions; PTV2 received a boost of 16 Gy in 2 Gy daily fractions to a total dose of 66 Gy. Median follow-up time was 18 months. The most common acute toxicity was esophagitis in 63% of patients with RTOG grades 1-2, and in 3% with grade 3. RTOG grades 1-2 radiation pneumonitis developed in 27% of patients. One patient developed pulmonary fibrosis RTOG grade 2 and another patient experienced grade 3 pulmonary fibrosis. Two patients developed mild esophageal stricture requiring dilatation. Two-year overall survival, local disease progression-free rate, and distant metastasis-free rate were 69%, 36% and 56%, respectively. Although 3-DCRT to 66 Gy for esophageal SCC was well tolerated, the local control was disappointing. The result supports the use of chemoradiation as the standard care for esophageal SCC.

  16. NASA Tech Briefs, April 2005

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    2005-01-01

    Gas-Tolerant Device Senses Electrical Conductivity of Liquid Nanoactuators Based on Electrostatic Forces on Dielectrics Replaceable Microfluidic Cartridges for a PCR Biosensor CdZnTe Image Detectors for Hard-X-Ray Telescopes High-Aperture-Efficiency Horn Antenna Full-Circle Resolver-to-Linear-Analog Converter Continuous, Full-Circle Arctangent Circuit Advanced Three-Dimensional Display System Automatic Focus Adjustment of a Microscope Topics covered include: FastScript3D - A Companion to Java 3D; Generating Mosaics of Astronomical Images; Simulating Descent and Landing of a Spacecraft; Simulating Vibrations in a Complex Loaded Structure; Rover Sequencing and Visualization Program; Software Template for Instruction in Mathematics; Support for User Interfaces for Distributed Systems; Nanostructured MnO2-Based Cathodes for Li-Ion/Polymer Cells; Multi-Layer Laminated Thin Films for Inflatable Structures; Two-Step Laser Ranging for Precise Tracking of a Spacecraft; Growing Aligned Carbon Nanotubes for Interconnections in ICs; Multilayer Composite Pressure Vessels; Texturing Blood-Glucose-Monitoring Optics Using Oxygen Beams; Fault-Tolerant Heat Exchanger; Atomic Clock Based on Opto-Electronic Oscillator; Microfocus/Polycapillary-Optic Crystallographic X-Ray Sys; Depth-Penetrating Luminescence Thermography of Thermal- Barrier Coatings; One-Dimensional Photonic Crystal Superprisms; Measuring Low-Order Aberrations in a Segmented Telescope; Mapping From an Instrumented Glove to a Robot Hand; Application of the Hilbert-Huang Transform to Financial Data; Optimizing Parameters for Deep-Space Optical Communication; and Low-Shear Microencapsulation and Electrostatic Coating.

  17. Delay feedback induces a spontaneous motion of two-dimensional cavity solitons in driven semiconductor microcavities

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tlidi, M.; Averlant, E.; Vladimirov, A.; Panajotov, K.

    2012-09-01

    We consider a broad area vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) operating below the lasing threshold and subject to optical injection and time-delayed feedback. We derive a generalized delayed Swift-Hohenberg equation for the VCSEL system, which is valid close to the nascent optical bistability. We first characterize the stationary-cavity solitons by constructing their snaking bifurcation diagram and by showing clustering behavior within the pinning region of parameters. Then, we show that the delayed feedback induces a spontaneous motion of two-dimensional (2D) cavity solitons in an arbitrary direction in the transverse plane. We characterize moving cavity solitons by estimating their threshold and calculating their velocity. Numerical 2D solutions of the governing semiconductor laser equations are in close agreement with those obtained from the delayed generalized Swift-Hohenberg equation.

  18. Global constraints on Z2 fluxes in two different anisotropic limits of a hypernonagon Kitaev model

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kato, Yasuyuki; Kamiya, Yoshitomo; Nasu, Joji; Motome, Yukitoshi

    2018-05-01

    The Kitaev model is an exactly-soluble quantum spin model, whose ground state provides a canonical example of a quantum spin liquid. Spin excitations from the ground state are fractionalized into emergent matter fermions and Z2 fluxes. The Z2 flux excitation is pointlike in two dimensions, while it comprises a closed loop in three dimensions because of the local constraint for each closed volume. In addition, the fluxes obey global constraints involving (semi)macroscopic number of fluxes. We here investigate such global constraints in the Kitaev model on a three-dimensional lattice composed of nine-site elementary loops, dubbed the hypernonagon lattice, whose ground state is a chiral spin liquid. We consider two different anisotropic limits of the hypernonagon Kitaev model where the low-energy effective models are described solely by the Z2 fluxes. We show that there are two kinds of global constraints in the model defined on a three-dimensional torus, namely, surface and volume constraints: the surface constraint is imposed on the even-odd parity of the total number of fluxes threading a two-dimensional slice of the system, while the volume constraint is for the even-odd parity of the number of the fluxes through specific plaquettes whose total number is proportional to the system volume. In the two anisotropic limits, therefore, the elementary excitation of Z2 fluxes occurs in a pair of closed loops so as to satisfy both two global constraints as well as the local constraints.

  19. Auxotrophic Mutations Reduce Tolerance of Saccharomyces cerevisiae to Very High Levels of Ethanol Stress

    PubMed Central

    Swinnen, Steve; Goovaerts, Annelies; Schaerlaekens, Kristien; Dumortier, Françoise; Verdyck, Pieter; Souvereyns, Kris; Van Zeebroeck, Griet; Foulquié-Moreno, María R.

    2015-01-01

    Very high ethanol tolerance is a distinctive trait of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae with notable ecological and industrial importance. Although many genes have been shown to be required for moderate ethanol tolerance (i.e., 6 to 12%) in laboratory strains, little is known of the much higher ethanol tolerance (i.e., 16 to 20%) in natural and industrial strains. We have analyzed the genetic basis of very high ethanol tolerance in a Brazilian bioethanol production strain by genetic mapping with laboratory strains containing artificially inserted oligonucleotide markers. The first locus contained the ura3Δ0 mutation of the laboratory strain as the causative mutation. Analysis of other auxotrophies also revealed significant linkage for LYS2, LEU2, HIS3, and MET15. Tolerance to only very high ethanol concentrations was reduced by auxotrophies, while the effect was reversed at lower concentrations. Evaluation of other stress conditions showed that the link with auxotrophy is dependent on the type of stress and the type of auxotrophy. When the concentration of the auxotrophic nutrient is close to that limiting growth, more stress factors can inhibit growth of an auxotrophic strain. We show that very high ethanol concentrations inhibit the uptake of leucine more than that of uracil, but the 500-fold-lower uracil uptake activity may explain the strong linkage between uracil auxotrophy and ethanol sensitivity compared to leucine auxotrophy. Since very high concentrations of ethanol inhibit the uptake of auxotrophic nutrients, the active uptake of scarce nutrients may be a major limiting factor for growth under conditions of ethanol stress. PMID:26116212

  20. Misfit stresses in a composite core-shell nanowire with an eccentric parallelepipedal core subjected to one-dimensional cross dilatation eigenstrain

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Krasnitckii, S. A.; Kolomoetc, D. R.; Smirnov, A. M.; Gutkin, M. Yu

    2017-03-01

    We present an analytical solution to the boundary-value problem in the classical theory of elasticity for a core-shell nanowire with an eccentric parallelepipedal core of an arbitrary rectangular cross section. The core is subjected to one-dimensional cross dilatation eigenstrain. The misfit stresses are found in a concise and transparent closed form which is convenient for practical use in theoretical modeling of misfit relaxation processes.

  1. Optical chirality of achiral three-dimensional photonic crystals

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Romanov, Sergei G.

    2017-04-01

    Extrinsic optical chirality in a form of the asymmetric transmission of circularly polarized light at the oblique light incidence has been observed in three-dimensional opal photonic crystals assembled from monodisperse polymer spheres in the closely packed face-centered-cubic lattice. This effect has been assigned to the translation-rotation symmetry of the lattice. The cross-polarization conversion of the circularly polarized light and the related asymmetry of the transmission of the inverted circularly polarized light have been demonstrated.

  2. A Method to Formulate the Unit Cell for Density Functional Theory (DFT) Calculations of the Electronic Band Structure of Heterostructures of Two-dimensional Nanosheets

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2015-04-01

    distribution is unlimited. i CONTENTS Page Introduction 1 Two-dimensional Material Geometry and Analogs with Close-packed Systems 1 Matching... System Lattice Vectors: An Optimization Problem 1 Generating the System Unit Cell 3 Transition Metal Dichalcogenides (TMDCS) with Mismatched... system being analyzed. The creation of a unit cell that accurately describes the system remains one of the largest challenges for DFT calculations

  3. Statistical mechanics of shell models for two-dimensional turbulence

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Aurell, E.; Boffetta, G.; Crisanti, A.; Frick, P.; Paladin, G.; Vulpiani, A.

    1994-12-01

    We study shell models that conserve the analogs of energy and enstrophy and hence are designed to mimic fluid turbulence in two-dimensions (2D). The main result is that the observed state is well described as a formal statistical equilibrium, closely analogous to the approach to two-dimensional ideal hydrodynamics of Onsager [Nuovo Cimento Suppl. 6, 279 (1949)], Hopf [J. Rat. Mech. Anal. 1, 87 (1952)], and Lee [Q. Appl. Math. 10, 69 (1952)]. In the presence of forcing and dissipation we observe a forward flux of enstrophy and a backward flux of energy. These fluxes can be understood as mean diffusive drifts from a source to two sinks in a system which is close to local equilibrium with Lagrange multipliers (``shell temperatures'') changing slowly with scale. This is clear evidence that the simplest shell models are not adequate to reproduce the main features of two-dimensional turbulence. The dimensional predictions on the power spectra from a supposed forward cascade of enstrophy and from one branch of the formal statistical equilibrium coincide in these shell models in contrast to the corresponding predictions for the Navier-Stokes and Euler equations in 2D. This coincidence has previously led to the mistaken conclusion that shell models exhibit a forward cascade of enstrophy. We also study the dynamical properties of the models and the growth of perturbations.

  4. Trapping two types of particles using a double-ring-shaped radially polarized beam

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

    Zhang Yaoju; Ding Biaofeng; Suyama, Taikei

    An optical-trap method based on the illumination of a double-ring-shaped radially polarized beam (R-TEM{sub 11}*) is proposed. The numerical results based on the vector diffraction theory show that a highly focused R-TEM{sub 11}* beam not only can produce a bright spot but also can form an optical cage in the focal region by changing the truncation parameter {beta}, defined as the ratio of the radius of the aperture to the waist of the beam. The radiation forces acting on Rayleigh particles are calculated by using the Rayleigh scattering theory. The bright spot generated by the R-TEM{sub 11}* beam with amore » {beta} value close to 2 can three-dimensionally trap a particle with a refractive index larger than that of the ambient. An optical cage or three-dimensional dark spot generated by the R-TEM{sub 11}* beam with a {beta} value close to 1.3 can three-dimensionally trap a particle with refractive index smaller than that of the ambient. Because the adjustment of the truncation parameter can be actualized by simply changing the radius of a circular aperture inserted in the front of the lens, only one optical-trap system in the present method can be used to three-dimensionally trap two types of particles with different refractive indices.« less

  5. A {1,2}-Order Plate Theory Accounting for Three-Dimensional Thermoelastic Deformations in Thick Composite and Sandwich Laminates

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Tessler, A.; Annett, M. S.; Gendron, G.

    2001-01-01

    A {1,2}-order theory for laminated composite and sandwich plates is extended to include thermoelastic effects. The theory incorporates all three-dimensional strains and stresses. Mixed-field assumptions are introduced which include linear in-plane displacements, parabolic transverse displacement and shear strains, and a cubic distribution of the transverse normal stress. Least squares strain compatibility conditions and exact traction boundary conditions are enforced to yield higher polynomial degree distributions for the transverse shear strains and transverse normal stress through the plate thickness. The principle of virtual work is used to derive a 10th-order system of equilibrium equations and associated Poisson boundary conditions. The predictive capability of the theory is demonstrated using a closed-form analytic solution for a simply-supported rectangular plate subjected to a linearly varying temperature field across the thickness. Several thin and moderately thick laminated composite and sandwich plates are analyzed. Numerical comparisons are made with corresponding solutions of the first-order shear deformation theory and three-dimensional elasticity theory. These results, which closely approximate the three-dimensional elasticity solutions, demonstrate that through - the - thickness deformations even in relatively thin and, especially in thick. composite and sandwich laminates can be significant under severe thermal gradients. The {1,2}-order kinematic assumptions insure an overall accurate theory that is in general superior and, in some cases, equivalent to the first-order theory.

  6. Anhydrobiosis and freezing-tolerance: adaptations that facilitate the establishment of Panagrolaimus nematodes in polar habitats.

    PubMed

    McGill, Lorraine M; Shannon, Adam J; Pisani, Davide; Félix, Marie-Anne; Ramløv, Hans; Dix, Ilona; Wharton, David A; Burnell, Ann M

    2015-01-01

    Anhydrobiotic animals can survive the loss of both free and bound water from their cells. While in this state they are also resistant to freezing. This physiology adapts anhydrobiotes to harsh environments and it aids their dispersal. Panagrolaimus davidi, a bacterial feeding anhydrobiotic nematode isolated from Ross Island Antarctica, can survive intracellular ice formation when fully hydrated. A capacity to survive freezing while fully hydrated has also been observed in some other Antarctic nematodes. We experimentally determined the anhydrobiotic and freezing-tolerance phenotypes of 24 Panagrolaimus strains from tropical, temperate, continental and polar habitats and we analysed their phylogenetic relationships. We found that several other Panagrolaimus isolates can also survive freezing when fully hydrated and that tissue extracts from these freezing-tolerant nematodes can inhibit the growth of ice crystals. We show that P. davidi belongs to a clade of anhydrobiotic and freezing-tolerant panagrolaimids containing strains from temperate and continental regions and that P. superbus, an early colonizer at Surtsey island, Iceland after its volcanic formation, is closely related to a species from Pennsylvania, USA. Ancestral state reconstructions show that anhydrobiosis evolved deep in the phylogeny of Panagrolaimus. The early-diverging Panagrolaimus lineages are strongly anhydrobiotic but weakly freezing-tolerant, suggesting that freezing tolerance is most likely a derived trait. The common ancestors of the davidi and the superbus clades were anhydrobiotic and also possessed robust freezing tolerance, along with a capacity to inhibit the growth and recrystallization of ice crystals. Unlike other endemic Antarctic nematodes, the life history traits of P. davidi do not show evidence of an evolved response to polar conditions. Thus we suggest that the colonization of Antarctica by P. davidi and of Surtsey by P. superbus may be examples of recent "ecological fitting" of freezing-tolerant anhydrobiotic propagules to the respective abiotic conditions in Ross Island and Surtsey.

  7. Anhydrobiosis and Freezing-Tolerance: Adaptations That Facilitate the Establishment of Panagrolaimus Nematodes in Polar Habitats

    PubMed Central

    McGill, Lorraine M.; Shannon, Adam J.; Pisani, Davide; Félix, Marie-Anne; Ramløv, Hans; Dix, Ilona; Wharton, David A.; Burnell, Ann M.

    2015-01-01

    Anhydrobiotic animals can survive the loss of both free and bound water from their cells. While in this state they are also resistant to freezing. This physiology adapts anhydrobiotes to harsh environments and it aids their dispersal. Panagrolaimus davidi, a bacterial feeding anhydrobiotic nematode isolated from Ross Island Antarctica, can survive intracellular ice formation when fully hydrated. A capacity to survive freezing while fully hydrated has also been observed in some other Antarctic nematodes. We experimentally determined the anhydrobiotic and freezing-tolerance phenotypes of 24 Panagrolaimus strains from tropical, temperate, continental and polar habitats and we analysed their phylogenetic relationships. We found that several other Panagrolaimus isolates can also survive freezing when fully hydrated and that tissue extracts from these freezing-tolerant nematodes can inhibit the growth of ice crystals. We show that P. davidi belongs to a clade of anhydrobiotic and freezing-tolerant panagrolaimids containing strains from temperate and continental regions and that P. superbus, an early colonizer at Surtsey island, Iceland after its volcanic formation, is closely related to a species from Pennsylvania, USA. Ancestral state reconstructions show that anhydrobiosis evolved deep in the phylogeny of Panagrolaimus. The early-diverging Panagrolaimus lineages are strongly anhydrobiotic but weakly freezing-tolerant, suggesting that freezing tolerance is most likely a derived trait. The common ancestors of the davidi and the superbus clades were anhydrobiotic and also possessed robust freezing tolerance, along with a capacity to inhibit the growth and recrystallization of ice crystals. Unlike other endemic Antarctic nematodes, the life history traits of P. davidi do not show evidence of an evolved response to polar conditions. Thus we suggest that the colonization of Antarctica by P. davidi and of Surtsey by P. superbus may be examples of recent “ecological fitting” of freezing-tolerant anhydrobiotic propagules to the respective abiotic conditions in Ross Island and Surtsey. PMID:25747673

  8. Study of the X-Ray Diagnosis of Unstable Pelvic Fracture Displacements in Three-Dimensional Space and its Application in Closed Reduction.

    PubMed

    Shi, Chengdi; Cai, Leyi; Hu, Wei; Sun, Junying

    2017-09-19

    ABSTRACTS Objective: To study the method of X-ray diagnosis of unstable pelvic fractures displaced in three-dimensional (3D) space and its clinical application in closed reduction. Five models of hemipelvic displacement were made in an adult pelvic specimen. Anteroposterior radiographs of the pelvis were analyzed in PACS. The method of X-ray diagnosis was applied in closed reductions. From February 2012 to June 2016, 23 patients (15 men, 8 women; mean age, 43.4 years) with unstable pelvic fractures were included. All patients were treated by closed reduction and percutaneous cannulate screw fixation of the pelvic ring. According to Tile's classification, the patients were classified into type B1 in 7 cases, B2 in 3, B3 in 3, C1 in 5, C2 in 3, and C3 in 2. The operation time and intraoperative blood loss were recorded. Postoperative images were evaluated by Matta radiographic standards. Five models of displacement were made successfully. The X-ray features of the models were analyzed. For clinical patients, the average operation time was 44.8 min (range, 20-90 min) and the average intraoperative blood loss was 35.7 (range, 20-100) mL. According to the Matta standards, 7 cases were excellent, 12 cases were good, and 4 were fair. The displacements in 3D space of unstable pelvic fractures can be diagnosed rapidly by X-ray analysis to guide closed reduction, with a satisfactory clinical outcome.

  9. Phase space interrogation of the empirical response modes for seismically excited structures

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Paul, Bibhas; George, Riya C.; Mishra, Sudib K.

    2017-07-01

    Conventional Phase Space Interrogation (PSI) for structural damage assessment relies on exciting the structure with low dimensional chaotic waveform, thereby, significantly limiting their applicability to large structures. The PSI technique is presently extended for structure subjected to seismic excitations. The high dimensionality of the phase space for seismic response(s) are overcome by the Empirical Mode Decomposition (EMD), decomposing the responses to a number of intrinsic low dimensional oscillatory modes, referred as Intrinsic Mode Functions (IMFs). Along with their low dimensionality, a few IMFs, retain sufficient information of the system dynamics to reflect the damage induced changes. The mutually conflicting nature of low-dimensionality and the sufficiency of dynamic information are taken care by the optimal choice of the IMF(s), which is shown to be the third/fourth IMFs. The optimal IMF(s) are employed for the reconstruction of the Phase space attractor following Taken's embedding theorem. The widely referred Changes in Phase Space Topology (CPST) feature is then employed on these Phase portrait(s) to derive the damage sensitive feature, referred as the CPST of the IMFs (CPST-IMF). The legitimacy of the CPST-IMF is established as a damage sensitive feature by assessing its variation with a number of damage scenarios benchmarked in the IASC-ASCE building. The damage localization capability, remarkable tolerance to noise contamination and the robustness under different seismic excitations of the feature are demonstrated.

  10. Note on tachyon moduli and closed strings

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

    Carneiro da Cunha, Bruno

    2008-07-15

    The collective behavior of the SL(2,R) covariant brane states of noncritical c=1 string theory, found in a previous work, is studied in the Fermi liquid approximation. It is found that such states mimic the coset WZW model, whereas only by further restrictions one recovers the double-scaling limit which was purported to be equivalent to closed string models. Another limit is proposed, inspired by the tachyon condensation ideas, where the spectrum is the same of two-dimensional string theory. We close by noting some strange connections between vacuum states of the theory in their different interpretations.

  11. Eddy current loss analysis of open-slot fault-tolerant permanent-magnet machines based on conformal mapping method

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ji, Jinghua; Luo, Jianhua; Lei, Qian; Bian, Fangfang

    2017-05-01

    This paper proposed an analytical method, based on conformal mapping (CM) method, for the accurate evaluation of magnetic field and eddy current (EC) loss in fault-tolerant permanent-magnet (FTPM) machines. The aim of modulation function, applied in CM method, is to change the open-slot structure into fully closed-slot structure, whose air-gap flux density is easy to calculate analytically. Therefore, with the help of Matlab Schwarz-Christoffel (SC) Toolbox, both the magnetic flux density and EC density of FTPM machine are obtained accurately. Finally, time-stepped transient finite-element method (FEM) is used to verify the theoretical analysis, showing that the proposed method is able to predict the magnetic flux density and EC loss precisely.

  12. Solution of hydrogen in accident tolerant fuel candidate material: U3Si2

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Middleburgh, S. C.; Claisse, A.; Andersson, D. A.; Grimes, R. W.; Olsson, P.; Mašková, S.

    2018-04-01

    Hydrogen uptake and accommodation into U3Si2, a candidate accident-tolerant fuel system, has been modelled on the atomic scale using the density functional theory. The solution energy of multiple H atoms is computed, reaching a stoichiometry of U3Si2H2 which has been experimentally observed in previous work (reported as U3Si2H1.8). The absorption of hydrogen is found to be favourable up to U3Si2H2 and the associated volume change is computed, closely matching experimental data. Entropic effects are considered to assess the dissociation temperature of H2, estimated to be at ∼800 K - again in good agreement with the experimentally observed transition temperature.

  13. Fault-tolerant Greenberger-Horne-Zeilinger paradox based on non-Abelian anyons.

    PubMed

    Deng, Dong-Ling; Wu, Chunfeng; Chen, Jing-Ling; Oh, C H

    2010-08-06

    We propose a scheme to test the Greenberger-Horne-Zeilinger paradox based on braidings of non-Abelian anyons, which are exotic quasiparticle excitations of topological states of matter. Because topological ordered states are robust against local perturbations, this scheme is in some sense "fault-tolerant" and might close the detection inefficiency loophole problem in previous experimental tests of the Greenberger-Horne-Zeilinger paradox. In turn, the construction of the Greenberger-Horne-Zeilinger paradox reveals the nonlocal property of non-Abelian anyons. Our results indicate that the non-Abelian fractional statistics is a pure quantum effect and cannot be described by local realistic theories. Finally, we present a possible experimental implementation of the scheme based on the anyonic interferometry technologies.

  14. A robust salt-tolerant superoleophobic alginate/graphene oxide aerogel for efficient oil/water separation in marine environments

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Yuqi; Zhang, Hui; Fan, Mizi; Zheng, Peitao; Zhuang, Jiandong; Chen, Lihui

    2017-04-01

    Marine pollution caused by frequent oil spill accidents has brought about tremendous damages to marine ecological environment. Therefore, the facile large-scale preparation of three-dimensional (3D) porous functional materials with special wettability is in urgent demand. In this study, we report a low-cost and salt-tolerant superoleophobic aerogel for efficient oil/seawater separation. The aerogel is prepared through incorporating graphene oxide (GO) into alginate (ALG) matrix by using a facile combined freeze-drying and ionic cross-linking method. The 3D structure interconnected by ALG and GO ensures the high mechanical strength and good flexibility of the developed aerogel. The rough microstructure combined with the hydrophilicity of the aerogel ensures its excellent underwater superoleophobic and antifouling properties. High-content polysaccharides contained in the aerogel guarantees its excellent salt-tolerant property. More impressively, the developed aerogel can retain its underwater superoleophobicity even after 30 days of immersion in seawater, indicating its good stability in marine environments. Furthermore, the aerogel could separate various oil/water mixtures with high separation efficiency (>99%) and good reusability (at least 40 cycles). The facile fabrication process combined with the excellent separation performance makes it promising for practical applications in marine environments.

  15. INSPECTION SHOP: PLAN TO PROVIDE UNCERTAINTY ANALYSIS WITH MEASUREMENTS

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

    Nederbragt, W W

    The LLNL inspection shop is chartered to make dimensional measurements of components for critical programmatic experiments. These measurements ensure that components are within tolerance and provide geometric details that can be used to further refine simulations. For these measurements to be useful, they must be significantly more accurate than the tolerances that are being checked. For example, if a part has a specified dimension of 100 millimeters and a tolerance of 1 millimeter, then the precision and/or accuracy of the measurement should be less than 1 millimeter. Using the ''10-to-1 gaugemaker's rule of thumb'', the desired precision of the measurementmore » should be less than 100 micrometers. Currently, the process for associating measurement uncertainty with data is not standardized, nor is the uncertainty based on a thorough uncertainty analysis. The goal of this project is to begin providing measurement uncertainty statements with critical measurements performed in the inspection shop. To accomplish this task, comprehensive knowledge about the underlying sources of uncertainty for measurement instruments need to be understood and quantified. Moreover, measurements of elemental uncertainties for each physical source need to be combined in a meaningful way to obtain an overall measurement uncertainty.« less

  16. Highly noise-tolerant hybrid algorithm for phase retrieval from a single-shot spatial carrier fringe pattern

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dong, Zhichao; Cheng, Haobo

    2018-01-01

    A highly noise-tolerant hybrid algorithm (NTHA) is proposed in this study for phase retrieval from a single-shot spatial carrier fringe pattern (SCFP), which effectively combines the merits of spatial carrier phase shift method and two dimensional continuous wavelet transform (2D-CWT). NTHA firstly extracts three phase-shifted fringe patterns from the SCFP with one pixel malposition; then calculates phase gradients by subtracting the reference phase from the other two target phases, which are retrieved respectively from three phase-shifted fringe patterns by 2D-CWT; finally, reconstructs the phase map by a least square gradient integration method. Its typical characters include but not limited to: (1) doesn't require the spatial carrier to be constant; (2) the subtraction mitigates edge errors of 2D-CWT; (3) highly noise-tolerant, because not only 2D-CWT is noise-insensitive, but also the noise in the fringe pattern doesn't directly take part in the phase reconstruction as in previous hybrid algorithm. Its feasibility and performances are validated extensively by simulations and contrastive experiments to temporal phase shift method, Fourier transform and 2D-CWT methods.

  17. Challenges and Possibilities of Holocaust Education and Critical Citizenship: An Ethnographic Study of a Fifth-Grade Bilingual Class Revisited

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Jennings, Louise B.

    2010-01-01

    This classroom ethnography examines the engagement of fifth-grade children in a year-long study of rights, respect, and responsibility, which culminated in a focused study of tolerance and intolerance organized around literature regarding the Holocaust. A close examination of one teacher's approach to teaching about the Holocaust, the study…

  18. Antibiosis and tolerance discovered in USDA-ARS sorghums resistant to the sugarcane aphid Melanaphis sacchari (Hemiptera: Aphididae)

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    The sugarcane aphid, Melanaphis sacchari, was discovered infesting grain sorghum near Beaumont, TX, close to the Texas and Louisiana state line a few miles inland from the Gulf coast in the late summer of 2013, and has been a perennial pest of sorghum through 2016. Our research was aimed at identif...

  19. Integrated transcriptome and proteome analyses reveal a close association between secondary metabolite production capabilities and Aspergillus flavus isolate oxidative stress tolerance

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    The contamination of crops with aflatoxins during Aspergillus flavus infection is exacerbated by drought stress. Reactive oxygen species have been shown to be produced in plant tissues in response to drought and to stimulate the production of aflatoxin by A. flavus in vitro. To better understand the...

  20. Differences in Proteins Synthesized in Needles of Unshaded and Shaded Pinus ponderosa var Scopulorum Seedlings during Prolonged Drought 1

    PubMed Central

    Vance, Nan C.; Copes, Donald O.; Zaerr, Joe B.

    1990-01-01

    Proteins were radiolabeled and extracted from needles of Pinus ponderosa var scopulorum (Dougl. ex Laws.) seedlings progressively drought-stressed for about 1 month. A set of novel, low molecular weight proteins was detected in fluorographs of two-dimensional gels when relative water content of needles fell below 70%. Their synthesis was undetectable in the fully recovered seedlings within 48 hours after rewatering. In similarly stressed seedlings that were shaded to 10% full light, the low molecular weight polypeptides were not detected or appeared at very low levels. The shaded seedlings, in which drought tolerance was reduced, did not recover upon termination of the drought. The results suggest that protein synthesis induced by water deficit in drought-tolerant seedlings may contribute to resisting the effects of cellular dehydration. Images Figure 1 Figure 2 PMID:16667397

  1. Powder Metallurgy Fabrication of Molybdenum Accelerator Target Disks

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

    Lowden, Richard Andrew; Kiggans Jr., James O.; Nunn, Stephen D.

    2015-07-01

    Powder metallurgy approaches for the fabrication of accelerator target disks are being examined to support the development of Mo-99 production by NorthStar Medical Technologies, LLC. An advantage of powder metallurgy is that very little material is wasted and, at present, dense, quality parts are routinely produced from molybdenum powder. The proposed targets, however, are thin wafers, 29 mm in diameter with a thickness of 0.5 mm, with very stringent dimensional tolerances. Although tooling can be machined to very high tolerance levels, the operations of powder feed, pressing and sintering involve complicated mechanisms, each of which affects green density and shrinkage,more » and therefore the dimensions and shape of the final product. Combinations of powder morphology, lubricants and pressing technique have been explored to produce target disks with minimal variations in thickness and little or no distortion. In addition, sintering conditions that produce densities for optimum target dissolvability are being determined.« less

  2. Proteome analysis of an ectomycorrhizal fungus Boletus edulis under salt shock.

    PubMed

    Liang, Yu; Chen, Hui; Tang, Mingjuan; Shen, Shihua

    2007-08-01

    Soil salinization has become a severe global problem and salinity is one of the most severe abiotic stresses inhibiting growth and survival of mycorrhizal fungi and their host plants. Salinity tolerance of ectomycorrhizal fungi and survival of ectomycorrhizal inocula is essential to reforestation and ecosystem restoration in saline areas. Proteomic changes of an ectomycorrhizal fungus, Boletus edulis, when exposed to salt stress conditions (4% NaCl, w/v) were determined using two-dimensional electrophoresis (2DE) and mass spectrometry (MS) techniques. Twenty-two protein spots, 14 upregulated and 8 downregulated, were found changed under salt stress conditions. Sixteen changed protein spots were identified by nanospray ESI Q-TOF MS/MS and liquid chromatography MS/MS. These proteins were involved in biosynthesis of methionine and S-adenosylmethionine, glycolysis, DNA repair, cell cycle control, and general stress tolerance, and their possible functions in salinity adaptation of Boletus edulis were discussed.

  3. Achievable flatness in a large microwave power transmitting antenna

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Ried, R. C.

    1980-01-01

    A dual reference SPS system with pseudoisotropic graphite composite as a representative dimensionally stable composite was studied. The loads, accelerations, thermal environments, temperatures and distortions were calculated for a variety of operational SPS conditions along with statistical considerations of material properties, manufacturing tolerances, measurement accuracy and the resulting loss of sight (LOS) and local slope distributions. A LOS error and a subarray rms slope error of two arc minutes can be achieved with a passive system. Results show that existing materials measurement, manufacturing, assembly and alignment techniques can be used to build the microwave power transmission system antenna structure. Manufacturing tolerance can be critical to rms slope error. The slope error budget can be met with a passive system. Structural joints without free play are essential in the assembly of the large truss structure. Variations in material properties, particularly for coefficient of thermal expansion from part to part, is more significant than actual value.

  4. Pore size engineering applied to the design of separators for nickel-hydrogen cells and batteries

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Abbey, K. M.; Britton, D. L.

    1983-01-01

    Pore size engineering in starved alkaline multiplate cells involves adopting techniques to widen the volume tolerance of individual cells. Separators with appropriate pore size distributions and wettability characteristics (capillary pressure considerations) to have wider volume tolerances and an ability to resist dimensional changes in the electrodes were designed. The separators studied for potential use in nickel-hydrogen cells consist of polymeric membranes as well as inorganic microporous mats. In addition to standard measurements, the resistance and distribution of electrolyte as a function of total cell electrolyte content were determined. New composite separators consisting of fibers, particles and/or binders deposited on Zircar cloth were developed in order to engineer the proper capillary pressure characteristics in the separator. These asymmetric separators were prepared from a variety of fibers, particles and binders. Previously announced in STAR as N83-24571

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

    Mohiyaddin, Fahd A.; Kalra, Rachpon; Laucht, Arne

    The ability to transport quantum information across some distance can facilitate the design and operation of a quantum processor. One-dimensional spin chains provide a compact platform to realize scalable spin transport for a solid-state quantum computer. Here, we model odd-sized donor chains in silicon under a range of experimental nonidealities, including variability of donor position within the chain. We show that the tolerance against donor placement inaccuracies is greatly improved by operating the spin chain in a mode where the electrons are confined at the Si-SiO 2 interface. We then estimate the required time scales and exchange couplings, and themore » level of noise that can be tolerated to achieve high-fidelity transport. As a result, we also propose a protocol to calibrate and initialize the chain, thereby providing a complete guideline for realizing a functional donor chain and utilizing it for spin transport.« less

  6. Transport of spin qubits with donor chains under realistic experimental conditions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mohiyaddin, Fahd A.; Kalra, Rachpon; Laucht, Arne; Rahman, Rajib; Klimeck, Gerhard; Morello, Andrea

    2016-07-01

    The ability to transport quantum information across some distance can facilitate the design and operation of a quantum processor. One-dimensional spin chains provide a compact platform to realize scalable spin transport for a solid-state quantum computer. Here, we model odd-sized donor chains in silicon under a range of experimental nonidealities, including variability of donor position within the chain. We show that the tolerance against donor placement inaccuracies is greatly improved by operating the spin chain in a mode where the electrons are confined at the Si-SiO2 interface. We then estimate the required time scales and exchange couplings, and the level of noise that can be tolerated to achieve high-fidelity transport. We also propose a protocol to calibrate and initialize the chain, thereby providing a complete guideline for realizing a functional donor chain and utilizing it for spin transport.

  7. Transport of spin qubits with donor chains under realistic experimental conditions

    DOE PAGES

    Mohiyaddin, Fahd A.; Kalra, Rachpon; Laucht, Arne; ...

    2016-07-25

    The ability to transport quantum information across some distance can facilitate the design and operation of a quantum processor. One-dimensional spin chains provide a compact platform to realize scalable spin transport for a solid-state quantum computer. Here, we model odd-sized donor chains in silicon under a range of experimental nonidealities, including variability of donor position within the chain. We show that the tolerance against donor placement inaccuracies is greatly improved by operating the spin chain in a mode where the electrons are confined at the Si-SiO 2 interface. We then estimate the required time scales and exchange couplings, and themore » level of noise that can be tolerated to achieve high-fidelity transport. As a result, we also propose a protocol to calibrate and initialize the chain, thereby providing a complete guideline for realizing a functional donor chain and utilizing it for spin transport.« less

  8. Designing of a self-adaptive digital filter using genetic algorithm

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Geng, Xuemei; Li, Hongguang; Xu, Chi

    2018-04-01

    This paper presents a novel methodology applying non-linear model for closed loop Sigma-Delta modulator that is based on genetic algorithm, which offers opportunity to simplify the process of tuning parameters and further improve the noise performance. The proposed Sigma-Delta modulator is able to quickly and efficiently design high performance, high order, closed loop that are robust to sensor fabrication tolerances. Simulation results with respect to the proposed Sigma-Delta modulator, SNR>122dB and the noise floor under -170dB are obtained in frequency range of [5-150Hz]. In further simulation, the robustness of the proposed Sigma-Delta modulator is analyzed.

  9. Genotypes Associated with Listeria monocytogenes Isolates Displaying Impaired or Enhanced Tolerances to Cold, Salt, Acid, or Desiccation Stress

    PubMed Central

    Hingston, Patricia; Chen, Jessica; Dhillon, Bhavjinder K.; Laing, Chad; Bertelli, Claire; Gannon, Victor; Tasara, Taurai; Allen, Kevin; Brinkman, Fiona S. L.; Truelstrup Hansen, Lisbeth; Wang, Siyun

    2017-01-01

    The human pathogen Listeria monocytogenes is a large concern in the food industry where its continuous detection in food products has caused a string of recalls in North America and Europe. Most recognized for its ability to grow in foods during refrigerated storage, L. monocytogenes can also tolerate several other food-related stresses with some strains possessing higher levels of tolerances than others. The objective of this study was to use a combination of phenotypic analyses and whole genome sequencing to elucidate potential relationships between L. monocytogenes genotypes and food-related stress tolerance phenotypes. To accomplish this, 166 L. monocytogenes isolates were sequenced and evaluated for their ability to grow in cold (4°C), salt (6% NaCl, 25°C), and acid (pH 5, 25°C) stress conditions as well as survive desiccation (33% RH, 20°C). The results revealed that the stress tolerance of L. monocytogenes is associated with serotype, clonal complex (CC), full length inlA profiles, and the presence of a plasmid which was identified in 55% of isolates. Isolates with full length inlA exhibited significantly (p < 0.001) enhanced cold tolerance relative to those harboring a premature stop codon (PMSC) in this gene. Similarly, isolates possessing a plasmid demonstrated significantly (p = 0.013) enhanced acid tolerance. We also identified nine new L. monocytogenes sequence types, a new inlA PMSC, and several connections between CCs and the presence/absence or variations of specific genetic elements. A whole genome single-nucleotide-variants phylogeny revealed sporadic distribution of tolerant isolates and closely related sensitive and tolerant isolates, highlighting that minor genetic differences can influence the stress tolerance of L. monocytogenes. Specifically, a number of cold and desiccation sensitive isolates contained PMSCs in σB regulator genes (rsbS, rsbU, rsbV). Collectively, the results suggest that knowing the sequence type of an isolate in addition to screening for the presence of full-length inlA and a plasmid, could help food processors and food agency investigators determine why certain isolates might be persisting in a food processing environment. Additionally, increased sequencing of L. monocytogenes isolates in combination with stress tolerance profiling, will enhance the ability to identify genetic elements associated with higher risk strains. PMID:28337186

  10. Three-dimensional instability of standing waves

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhu, Qiang; Liu, Yuming; Yue, Dick K. P.

    2003-12-01

    We investigate the three-dimensional instability of finite-amplitude standing surface waves under the influence of gravity. The analysis employs the transition matrix (TM) approach and uses a new high-order spectral element (HOSE) method for computation of the nonlinear wave dynamics. HOSE is an extension of the original high-order spectral method (HOS) wherein nonlinear wave wave and wave body interactions are retained up to high order in wave steepness. Instead of global basis functions in HOS, however, HOSE employs spectral elements to allow for complex free-surface geometries and surface-piercing bodies. Exponential convergence of HOS with respect to the total number of spectral modes (for a fixed number of elements) and interaction order is retained in HOSE. In this study, we use TM-HOSE to obtain the stability of general three-dimensional perturbations (on a two-dimensional surface) on two classes of standing waves: plane standing waves in a rectangular tank; and radial/azimuthal standing waves in a circular basin. For plane standing waves, we confirm the known result of two-dimensional side-bandlike instability. In addition, we find a novel three-dimensional instability for base flow of any amplitude. The dominant component of the unstable disturbance is an oblique (standing) wave oriented at an arbitrary angle whose frequency is close to the (nonlinear) frequency of the original standing wave. This finding is confirmed by direct long-time simulations using HOSE which show that the nonlinear evolution leads to classical Fermi Pasta Ulam recurrence. For the circular basin, we find that, beyond a threshold wave steepness, a standing wave (of nonlinear frequency Omega) is unstable to three-dimensional perturbations. The unstable perturbation contains two dominant (standing-wave) components, the sum of whose frequencies is close to 2Omega. From the cases we consider, the critical wave steepness is found to generally decrease/increase with increasing radial/azimuthal mode number of the base standing wave. Finally, we show that the instability we find for both two- and three-dimensional standing waves is a result of third-order (quartet) resonance.

  11. Two-Dimensional Algal Collection and Assembly by Combining AC-Dielectrophoresis with Fluorescence Detection for Contaminant-Induced Oxidative Stress Sensing.

    PubMed

    Siebman, Coralie; Velev, Orlin D; Slaveykova, Vera I

    2015-06-15

    An alternative current (AC) dielectrophoretic lab-on-chip setup was evaluated as a rapid tool of capture and assembly of microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii in two-dimensional (2D) close-packed arrays. An electric field of 100 V·cm⁻¹, 100 Hz applied for 30 min was found optimal to collect and assemble the algae into single-layer structures of closely packed cells without inducing cellular oxidative stress. Combined with oxidative stress specific staining and fluorescence microscopy detection, the capability of using the 2D whole-cell assembly on-chip to follow the reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and oxidative stress during short-term exposure to several environmental contaminants, including mercury, methylmercury, copper, copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs), and diuron was explored. The results showed significant increase of the cellular ROS when C. reinhardtii was exposed to high concentrations of methylmercury, CuO-NPs, and 10⁻⁵ M Cu. Overall, this study demonstrates the potential of combining AC-dielectrophoretically assembled two-dimensional algal structures with cell metabolic analysis using fluorescence staining, as a rapid analytical tool for probing the effect of contaminants in highly impacted environment.

  12. Muscle tension line concept in nasolabial muscle complex--based on 3-dimensional reconstruction of nasolabial muscle fibers.

    PubMed

    Yin, Ningbei; Wu, Jiajun; Chen, Bo; Song, Tao; Ma, Hengyuan; Zhao, Zhenmin; Wang, Yongqian; Li, Haidong; Wu, Di

    2015-03-01

    Plastic surgeons have attempted various ways to rebuild the aesthetic subunits of the upper lip in patients with cleft lip with less than perfect results in most cases. We propose that repairing the 3 muscle tension line groups in the nasolabial complex will have improved aesthetic results. Micro-computed tomographic scans were performed on the nasolabial tissues of 5 normal aborted fetuses and used to construct a 3-dimensional model to study the nasolabial muscle complex structure. The micro-computed tomographic (CT) scans showed the close relationship and interaction between the muscle fibers of nasalis, pars peripheralis, levator labii superioris, and pars marginalis. Based on the 2-dimensional images obtained from the micro-computed tomographic scans, we suggest the concept of nasolabial muscle complex and muscle tension line group theory: there is a close relationship among the alar part of the nasalis, depressor septi muscle, orbicularis oris muscle, and levator labii superioris alaeque nasi. The tension line groups are 3 tension line structures in the nasolabial muscle complex that interlock with each other at the intersections and maintain the specific shape and aesthetics of the lip and nose.

  13. Self-assembly of three-dimensional open structures using patchy colloidal particles.

    PubMed

    Rocklin, D Zeb; Mao, Xiaoming

    2014-10-14

    Open structures can display a number of unusual properties, including a negative Poisson's ratio, negative thermal expansion, and holographic elasticity, and have many interesting applications in engineering. However, it is a grand challenge to self-assemble open structures at the colloidal scale, where short-range interactions and low coordination number can leave them mechanically unstable. In this paper we discuss the self-assembly of three-dimensional open structures using triblock Janus particles, which have two large attractive patches that can form multiple bonds, separated by a band with purely hard-sphere repulsion. Such surface patterning leads to open structures that are stabilized by orientational entropy (in an order-by-disorder effect) and selected over close-packed structures by vibrational entropy. For different patch sizes the particles can form into either tetrahedral or octahedral structural motifs which then compose open lattices, including the pyrochlore, the hexagonal tetrastack and the perovskite lattices. Using an analytic theory, we examine the phase diagrams of these possible open and close-packed structures for triblock Janus particles and characterize the mechanical properties of these structures. Our theory leads to rational designs of particles for the self-assembly of three-dimensional colloidal structures that are possible using current experimental techniques.

  14. NASA One-Dimensional Combustor Simulation--User Manual for S1D_ML

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Stueber, Thomas J.; Paxson, Daniel E.

    2014-01-01

    The work presented in this paper is to promote research leading to a closed-loop control system to actively suppress thermo-acoustic instabilities. To serve as a model for such a closed-loop control system, a one-dimensional combustor simulation composed using MATLAB software tools has been written. This MATLAB based process is similar to a precursor one-dimensional combustor simulation that was formatted as FORTRAN 77 source code. The previous simulation process requires modification to the FORTRAN 77 source code, compiling, and linking when creating a new combustor simulation executable file. The MATLAB based simulation does not require making changes to the source code, recompiling, or linking. Furthermore, the MATLAB based simulation can be run from script files within the MATLAB environment or with a compiled copy of the executable file running in the Command Prompt window without requiring a licensed copy of MATLAB. This report presents a general simulation overview. Details regarding how to setup and initiate a simulation are also presented. Finally, the post-processing section describes the two types of files created while running the simulation and it also includes simulation results for a default simulation included with the source code.

  15. Protein conformational disorder and enzyme catalysis.

    PubMed

    Schulenburg, Cindy; Hilvert, Donald

    2013-01-01

    Though lacking a well-defined three-dimensional structure, intrinsically unstructured proteins are ubiquitous in nature. These molecules play crucial roles in many cellular processes, especially signaling and regulation. Surprisingly, even enzyme catalysis can tolerate substantial disorder. This observation contravenes conventional wisdom but is relevant to an understanding of how protein dynamics modulates enzyme function. This chapter reviews properties and characteristics of disordered proteins, emphasizing examples of enzymes that lack defined structures, and considers implications of structural disorder for catalytic efficiency and evolution.

  16. Thermal Protection Materials Development

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Selvaduray, Guna; Cox, Michael

    1998-01-01

    The main portion of this contract year was spent on the development of materials for high temperature applications. In particular, thermal protection materials were constantly tested and evaluated for thermal shock resistance, high-temperature dimensional stability, and tolerance to hostile environmental effects. The analytical laboratory at the Thermal Protection Materials Branch (TPMB), NASA-Ames played an integral part in the process of materials development of high temperature aerospace applications. The materials development focused mainly on the determination of physical and chemical characteristics of specimens from the various research programs.

  17. Expert Systems for the Scheduling of Image Processing Tasks on a Parallel Processing System

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1986-12-01

    existed for over twenty years. Credit for designing and implementing the first computer vision system is usually given to L. G . Roberts [Robe65]. With...hardware differences between systems. 44 LIST OF REFERENCES [Adam82] G . B. Adams III and H. J. Siegel, "The Extra Stage Cube: a Fault-Tolerant...Academic Press, 1985 [Robe65] L. G . Roberts, "Machine Perception of Three-Dimensional Solids," in Optical and Electro-Optical Information Processing, ed. J

  18. Demonstration of a Large-Scale Tank Assembly Via Circumferential Friction Stir Welds

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Jones, Chip; Adams, Glynn; Colligan, Kevin; McCool, A. (Technical Monitor)

    2000-01-01

    Five (5) each 14-foot diameter circumferential FSWelds were conducted on the modified CWT, two (2) each pathfinder and three (3) each assembly welds Tapered circumferential welds were successfully demonstrated The use of a closeout anvil was successfully demonstrated during one of the pathfinder welds Considerable difficulty maintaining joint f it-up during the weld process Anvil deflections Hardware dimensional tolerances Inadequate clamping Variations in the heat sink characteristics of the circumferential anvil as compared to the test panel anvil

  19. The theory of n-scales

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dündar, Furkan Semih

    2018-01-01

    We provide a theory of n-scales previously called as n dimensional time scales. In previous approaches to the theory of time scales, multi-dimensional scales were taken as product space of two time scales [1, 2]. n-scales make the mathematical structure more flexible and appropriate to real world applications in physics and related fields. Here we define an n-scale as an arbitrary closed subset of ℝn. Modified forward and backward jump operators, Δ-derivatives and Δ-integrals on n-scales are defined.

  20. Causal Structure around Spinning 5-DIMENSIONAL Cosmic Strings

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Slagter, Reinoud Jan

    2008-09-01

    We present a numerical solution of a stationary 5-dimensional spinning cosmic string in the Einstein-Yang-Mills (EYM) model, where the extra bulk coordinate ψ is periodic. It turns out that when gψψ approaches zero, i.e., a closed time-like curve (CTC) would appear, the solution becomes singular. We also investigated the geometrical structure of the static 5D cosmic string. Two opposite moving 5D strings could, in contrast with the 4D case, fulfil the Gott condition for CTC formation.

  1. Application of Two-Dimensional AWE Algorithm in Training Multi-Dimensional Neural Network Model

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2003-07-01

    hybrid scheme . the general neural network method (Table 3.1). The training process of the software- ACKNOWLEDGMENT "Neuralmodeler" is shown in Fig. 3.2...engineering. Artificial neural networks (ANNs) have emerged Training a neural network model is the key of as a powerful technique for modeling general neural...coefficients am, the derivatives method of moments (MoM). The variables in the of matrix I have to be generated . A closed form model are frequency

  2. Some elements of a theory of multidimensional complex variables. I - General theory. II - Expansions of analytic functions and application to fluid flows

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Martin, E. Dale

    1989-01-01

    The paper introduces a new theory of N-dimensional complex variables and analytic functions which, for N greater than 2, is both a direct generalization and a close analog of the theory of ordinary complex variables. The algebra in the present theory is a commutative ring, not a field. Functions of a three-dimensional variable were defined and the definition of the derivative then led to analytic functions.

  3. Dynamics of a neuron model in different two-dimensional parameter-spaces

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rech, Paulo C.

    2011-03-01

    We report some two-dimensional parameter-space diagrams numerically obtained for the multi-parameter Hindmarsh-Rose neuron model. Several different parameter planes are considered, and we show that regardless of the combination of parameters, a typical scenario is preserved: for all choice of two parameters, the parameter-space presents a comb-shaped chaotic region immersed in a large periodic region. We also show that exist regions close these chaotic region, separated by the comb teeth, organized themselves in period-adding bifurcation cascades.

  4. Photogrammetry: An available surface characterization tool for solar concentrators. Part 1: Measurements of surfaces

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

    Shortis, M.R.; Johnston, G.H.G.

    1996-08-01

    Close range photogrammetry is a sensing technique that allows the three-dimensional coordinates of selected points on a surface of almost any dimension and orientation to be assessed. Surface characterizations of paraboloidal reflecting surfaces at the ANU using photogrammetry have indicated that three-dimensional coordinate precisions approach 1:20,000 are readily achievable using this technique. This allows surface quality assessments to be made of large solar collecting devices with a precision that is difficult to achieve with other methods.

  5. Mass gap in the weak coupling limit of (2 +1 )-dimensional SU(2) lattice gauge theory

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Anishetty, Ramesh; Sreeraj, T. P.

    2018-04-01

    We develop the dual description of (2 +1 )-dimensional SU(2) lattice gauge theory as interacting "Abelian-like" electric loops by using Schwinger bosons. "Point splitting" of the lattice enables us to construct explicit Hilbert space for the gauge invariant theory which in turn makes dynamics more transparent. Using path integral representation in phase space, the interacting closed loop dynamics is analyzed in the weak coupling limit to get the mass gap.

  6. Electron spin polarization by isospin ordering in correlated two-layer quantum Hall systems.

    PubMed

    Tiemann, L; Wegscheider, W; Hauser, M

    2015-05-01

    Enhancement of the electron spin polarization in a correlated two-layer, two-dimensional electron system at a total Landau level filling factor of 1 is reported. Using resistively detected nuclear magnetic resonance, we demonstrate that the electron spin polarization of two closely spaced two-dimensional electron systems becomes maximized when interlayer Coulomb correlations establish spontaneous isospin ferromagnetic order. This correlation-driven polarization dominates over the spin polarizations of competing single-layer fractional quantum Hall states under electron density imbalances.

  7. Four-dimensional key design in amplitude, phase, polarization and distance for optical encryption based on polarization digital holography and QR code.

    PubMed

    Lin, Chao; Shen, Xueju; Li, Baochen

    2014-08-25

    We demonstrate that all parameters of optical lightwave can be simultaneously designed as keys in security system. This multi-dimensional property of key can significantly enlarge the key space and further enhance the security level of the system. The single-shot off-axis digital holography with orthogonal polarized reference waves is employed to perform polarization state recording on object wave. Two pieces of polarization holograms are calculated and fabricated to be arranged in reference arms to generate random amplitude and phase distribution respectively. When reconstruction, original information which is represented with QR code can be retrieved using Fresnel diffraction with decryption keys and read out noise-free. Numerical simulation results for this cryptosystem are presented. An analysis on the key sensitivity and fault tolerance properties are also provided.

  8. Three-Dimensional Color Code Thresholds via Statistical-Mechanical Mapping

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kubica, Aleksander; Beverland, Michael E.; Brandão, Fernando; Preskill, John; Svore, Krysta M.

    2018-05-01

    Three-dimensional (3D) color codes have advantages for fault-tolerant quantum computing, such as protected quantum gates with relatively low overhead and robustness against imperfect measurement of error syndromes. Here we investigate the storage threshold error rates for bit-flip and phase-flip noise in the 3D color code (3DCC) on the body-centered cubic lattice, assuming perfect syndrome measurements. In particular, by exploiting a connection between error correction and statistical mechanics, we estimate the threshold for 1D stringlike and 2D sheetlike logical operators to be p3DCC (1 )≃1.9 % and p3DCC (2 )≃27.6 % . We obtain these results by using parallel tempering Monte Carlo simulations to study the disorder-temperature phase diagrams of two new 3D statistical-mechanical models: the four- and six-body random coupling Ising models.

  9. The Torino Impact Hazard Scale

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Binzel, Richard P.

    2000-04-01

    Newly discovered asteroids and comets have inherent uncertainties in their orbit determinations owing to the natural limits of positional measurement precision and the finite lengths of orbital arcs over which determinations are made. For some objects making predictable future close approaches to the Earth, orbital uncertainties may be such that a collision with the Earth cannot be ruled out. Careful and responsible communication between astronomers and the public is required for reporting these predictions and a 0-10 point hazard scale, reported inseparably with the date of close encounter, is recommended as a simple and efficient tool for this purpose. The goal of this scale, endorsed as the Torino Impact Hazard Scale, is to place into context the level of public concern that is warranted for any close encounter event within the next century. Concomitant reporting of the close encounter date further conveys the sense of urgency that is warranted. The Torino Scale value for a close approach event is based upon both collision probability and the estimated kinetic energy (collision consequence), where the scale value can change as probability and energy estimates are refined by further data. On the scale, Category 1 corresponds to collision probabilities that are comparable to the current annual chance for any given size impactor. Categories 8-10 correspond to certain (probability >99%) collisions having increasingly dire consequences. While close approaches falling Category 0 may be no cause for noteworthy public concern, there remains a professional responsibility to further refine orbital parameters for such objects and a figure of merit is suggested for evaluating such objects. Because impact predictions represent a multi-dimensional problem, there is no unique or perfect translation into a one-dimensional system such as the Torino Scale. These limitations are discussed.

  10. Crash Padding Research : Vol. I. Material Mechanical Properties.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    1986-08-01

    The dynamic mechanical properties of Uniroyal Ensolite AAC, a viscoelastic closed-cell foam rubber, are investigated by means of materials tests. Sufficient test data is presented to form a basis for one-dimensional (uniform compression) empirical co...

  11. Homological Order in Three and Four dimensions: Wilson Algebra, Entanglement Entropy and Twist Defects

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Roy, Abhishek; Chen, Xiao; Teo, Jeffrey

    2013-03-01

    We investigate homological orders in two, three and four dimensions by studying Zk toric code models on simplicial, cellular or in general differential complexes. The ground state degeneracy is obtained from Wilson loop and surface operators, and the homological intersection form. We compute these for a series of closed 3 and 4 dimensional manifolds and study the projective representations of mapping class groups (modular transformations). Braiding statistics between point and string excitations in (3+1)-dimensions or between dual string excitations in (4+1)-dimensions are topologically determined by the higher dimensional linking number, and can be understood by an effective topological field theory. An algorithm for calculating entanglemnent entropy of any bipartition of closed manifolds is presented, and its topological signature is completely characterized homologically. Extrinsic twist defects (or disclinations) are studied in 2,3 and 4 dimensions and are shown to carry exotic fusion and braiding properties. Simons Fellowship

  12. Using femtosecond laser to fabricate highly precise interior three-dimensional microstructures in polymeric flow chip

    PubMed Central

    Lee, Chia-Yu; Chang, Ting-Chou; Wang, Shau-Chun; Chien, Chih-Wei; Cheng, Chung-Wei

    2010-01-01

    This paper reports using femtosecond laser marker to fabricate the three-dimensional interior microstructures in one closed flow channel of plastic substrate. Strip-like slots in the dimensions of 800 μm×400 μm×65 μm were ablated with pulse Ti:sapphire laser at 800 nm (pulse duration of ∼120 fs with 1 kHz repetition rate) on acrylic slide. After ablation, defocused beams were used to finish the surface of microstructures. Having finally polished with sonication, the laser fabricated structures are highly precise with the arithmetic roughness of 1.5 and 4.5 nm. Fabricating such highly precise microstructures cannot be accomplished with nanosecond laser marking or other mechanical drilling methods. In addition, since laser ablation can directly engrave interior microstructures in one closed chip, glue smearing problems to damage molded microstructures possibly to occur during the chip sealing procedures can be avoided too. PMID:21079695

  13. Using femtosecond laser to fabricate highly precise interior three-dimensional microstructures in polymeric flow chip.

    PubMed

    Lee, Chia-Yu; Chang, Ting-Chou; Wang, Shau-Chun; Chien, Chih-Wei; Cheng, Chung-Wei

    2010-10-18

    This paper reports using femtosecond laser marker to fabricate the three-dimensional interior microstructures in one closed flow channel of plastic substrate. Strip-like slots in the dimensions of 800 μm×400 μm×65 μm were ablated with pulse Ti:sapphire laser at 800 nm (pulse duration of ∼120 fs with 1 kHz repetition rate) on acrylic slide. After ablation, defocused beams were used to finish the surface of microstructures. Having finally polished with sonication, the laser fabricated structures are highly precise with the arithmetic roughness of 1.5 and 4.5 nm. Fabricating such highly precise microstructures cannot be accomplished with nanosecond laser marking or other mechanical drilling methods. In addition, since laser ablation can directly engrave interior microstructures in one closed chip, glue smearing problems to damage molded microstructures possibly to occur during the chip sealing procedures can be avoided too.

  14. On the variation in crack-opening stresses at different locations in a three-dimensional body

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Chermahini, R. G.; Blom, Anders F.

    1990-01-01

    Crack propagation and closure behavior of thin, and thick middle crack tension specimens under constant amplitude loading were investigated using a three dimensional elastic plastic finite element analysis of fatigue crack propagation and closure. In the thin specimens the crack front closed first on the exterior (free) surface and closed last in the interior during the unloading portion of cyclic loading; a load reduced displacement technique was used to determine crack opening stresses at specified locations in the plate from the displacements calculated after the seven cycle. All the locations were on the plate external surface and were located near the crack tip, behind the crack tip, at the centerline of the crack. With this technique, the opening stresses at the specified points were found to be 0.52, 0.42, and 0.39 times the maximum applied stress.

  15. Turbulence generation by waves

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

    Kaftori, D.; Nan, X.S.; Banerjee, S.

    The interaction between two-dimensional mechanically generated waves, and a turbulent stream was investigated experimentally in a horizontal channel, using a 3-D LDA synchronized with a surface position measuring device and a micro-bubble tracers flow visualization with high speed video. Results show that although the wave induced orbital motion reached all the way to the wall, the characteristics of the turbulence wall structures and the turbulence intensity close to the wall were not altered. Nor was the streaky nature of the wall layer. On the other hand, the mean velocity profile became more uniform and the mean friction velocity was increased.more » Close to the free surface, the turbulence intensity was substantially increased as well. Even in predominantly laminar flows, the introduction of 2-D waves causes three dimensional turbulence. The turbulence enhancement is found to be proportional to the wave strength.« less

  16. Lie algebraic approach to the time-dependent quantum general harmonic oscillator and the bi-dimensional charged particle in time-dependent electromagnetic fields

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

    Ibarra-Sierra, V.G.; Sandoval-Santana, J.C.; Cardoso, J.L.

    We discuss the one-dimensional, time-dependent general quadratic Hamiltonian and the bi-dimensional charged particle in time-dependent electromagnetic fields through the Lie algebraic approach. Such method consists in finding a set of generators that form a closed Lie algebra in terms of which it is possible to express a quantum Hamiltonian and therefore the evolution operator. The evolution operator is then the starting point to obtain the propagator as well as the explicit form of the Heisenberg picture position and momentum operators. First, the set of generators forming a closed Lie algebra is identified for the general quadratic Hamiltonian. This algebra ismore » later extended to study the Hamiltonian of a charged particle in electromagnetic fields exploiting the similarities between the terms of these two Hamiltonians. These results are applied to the solution of five different examples: the linear potential which is used to introduce the Lie algebraic method, a radio frequency ion trap, a Kanai–Caldirola-like forced harmonic oscillator, a charged particle in a time dependent magnetic field, and a charged particle in constant magnetic field and oscillating electric field. In particular we present exact analytical expressions that are fitting for the study of a rotating quadrupole field ion trap and magneto-transport in two-dimensional semiconductor heterostructures illuminated by microwave radiation. In these examples we show that this powerful method is suitable to treat quadratic Hamiltonians with time dependent coefficients quite efficiently yielding closed analytical expressions for the propagator and the Heisenberg picture position and momentum operators. -- Highlights: •We deal with the general quadratic Hamiltonian and a particle in electromagnetic fields. •The evolution operator is worked out through the Lie algebraic approach. •We also obtain the propagator and Heisenberg picture position and momentum operators. •Analytical expressions for a rotating quadrupole field ion trap are presented. •Exact solutions for magneto-transport in variable electromagnetic fields are shown.« less

  17. The effect of dissipative inhomogeneous medium on the statistics of the wave intensity

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Saatchi, Sasan S.

    1993-01-01

    One of the main theoretical points in the theory of wave propagation in random medium is the derivation of closed form equations to describe the statistics of the propagating waves. In particular, in one dimensional problems, the closed form representation of the multiple scattering effects is important since it contributes in understanding such problems like wave localization, backscattering enhancement, and intensity fluctuations. In this the propagation of plane waves in a layer of one-dimensional dissipative random medium is considered. The medium is modeled by a complex permittivity whose real part is a constant representing the absorption. The one dimensional problem is mathematically equivalent to the analysis of a transmission line with randomly perturbed distributed parameters and a single mode lossy waveguide and the results can be used to study the propagation of radio waves through atmosphere and the remote sensing of geophysical media. It is assumed the scattering medium consists of an ensemble of one-dimensional point scatterers randomly positioned in a layer of thickness L with diffuse boundaries. A Poisson impulse process with density lambda is used to model the position of scatterers in the medium. By employing the Markov properties of this process an exact closed form equation of Kolmogorov-Feller type was obtained for the probability density of the reflection coefficient. This equation was solved by combining two limiting cases: (1) when the density of scatterers is small; and (2) when the medium is weakly dissipative. A two variable perturbation method for small lambda was used to obtain solutions valid for thick layers. These solutions are then asymptotically evaluated for small dissipation. To show the effect of dissipation, the mean and fluctuations of the reflected power are obtained. The results were compared with a lossy homogeneous medium and with a lossless inhomogeneous medium and the regions where the effect of absorption is not essential were discussed.

  18. Prognostic value of three-dimensional ultrasound for fetal hydronephrosis

    PubMed Central

    WANG, JUNMEI; YING, WEIWEN; TANG, DAXING; YANG, LIMING; LIU, DONGSHENG; LIU, YUANHUI; PAN, JIAOE; XIE, XING

    2015-01-01

    The present study evaluated the prognostic value of three-dimensional ultrasound for fetal hydronephrosis. Pregnant females with fetal hydronephrosis were enrolled and a novel three-dimensional ultrasound indicator, renal parenchymal volume/kidney volume, was introduced to predict the postnatal prognosis of fetal hydronephrosis in comparison with commonly used ultrasound indicators. All ultrasound indicators of fetal hydronephrosis could predict whether postnatal surgery was required for fetal hydronephrosis; however, the predictive performance of renal parenchymal volume/kidney volume measurements as an individual indicator was the highest. In conclusion, ultrasound is important in predicting whether postnatal surgery is required for fetal hydronephrosis, and the three-dimensional ultrasound indicator renal parenchymal volume/kidney volume has a high predictive performance. Furthermore, the majority of cases of fetal hydronephrosis spontaneously regress subsequent to birth, and the regression time is closely associated with ultrasound indicators. PMID:25667626

  19. Changes in freezing tolerance, plasma membrane H+-ATPase activity and fatty acid composition in Pinus resinosa needles during cold acclimation and de-acclimation.

    PubMed

    Martz, Françoise; Sutinen, Marja-Liisa; Kiviniemi, Sari; Palta, Jiwan P

    2006-06-01

    It has previously been suggested that plasma membrane ATPase (PM H+-ATPase, EC 3.6.1.3.) is a site of incipient freezing injury because activity increases following cold acclimation and there are published data indicating that activity of PM H+-ATPase is modulated by changes in lipids associated with the enzyme. To test and extend these findings in a tree species, we analyzed PM H+-ATPase activity and the fatty acid (FA) composition of glycerolipids in purified plasma membranes (PMs) prepared by the two-phase partition method from current-year needles of adult red pine (Pinus resinosa Ait.) trees. Freezing tolerance of the needles decreased from -56 degrees C in March to -9 degrees C in May, and increased from -15 degrees C in September to -148 degrees C in January. Specific activity of vanadate-sensitive PM H+-ATPase increased more than two-fold following cold acclimation, despite a concurrent increase in protein concentration. During de-acclimation, decreases in PM H+-ATPase activity and freezing tolerance were accompanied by decreases in the proportions of oleic (18:1) and linoleic (18:2) acids and increases in the proportions of palmitic (16:0) and linolenic (18:3) acids in total glycerolipids extracted from the plasma membrane fraction. This pattern of changes in PM H+-ATPase activity and the 18:1, 18:2 and 18:3 fatty acids was reversed during cold acclimation. In the PM fractions, changes in FA unsaturation, expressed as the double bond index (1 x 18:1 + 2 x 18:2 + 3 x 18:3), were closely correlated with changes in H+-ATPase specific activity (r2 = 0.995). Changes in freezing tolerance were well correlated with DBI (r2 = 0.877) and ATPase specific activity (r2 = 0.833) in the PM fraction. Total ATPase activity in microsomal fractions also closely followed changes in freezing tolerance (r2 = 0.969). We conclude that, as in herbaceous plants, simultaneous seasonal changes in PM H+-ATPase activity and fatty acid composition occur during cold acclimation and de-acclimation in an extremely winter hardy tree species under natural conditions, lending support to the hypothesis that FA-regulated PM H+-ATPase activity is involved in the cellular response underlying cold acclimation and de-acclimation.

  20. Universal thermal corrections to single interval entanglement entropy for two dimensional conformal field theories.

    PubMed

    Cardy, John; Herzog, Christopher P

    2014-05-02

    We consider single interval Rényi and entanglement entropies for a two dimensional conformal field theory on a circle at nonzero temperature. Assuming that the finite size of the system introduces a unique ground state with a nonzero mass gap, we calculate the leading corrections to the Rényi and entanglement entropy in a low temperature expansion. These corrections have a universal form for any two dimensional conformal field theory that depends only on the size of the mass gap and its degeneracy. We analyze the limits where the size of the interval becomes small and where it becomes close to the size of the spatial circle.

  1. LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Two-centre exchange integrals for complex exponent Slater orbitals

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kuang, Jiyun; Lin, C. D.

    1996-12-01

    The one-dimensional integral representation for the Fourier transform of a two-centre product of B functions (finite linear combinations of Slater orbitals) with real parameters is generalized to include B functions with complex parameters. This one-dimensional integral representation allows for an efficient method of calculating two-centre exchange integrals with plane-wave electronic translational factors (ETF) over Slater orbitals of real/complex exponents. This method is a significant improvement on the previous two-dimensional quadrature method of the integrals. A new basis set of the form 0953-4075/29/24/005/img1 is proposed to improve the description of pseudo-continuum states in the close-coupling treatment of ion - atom collisions.

  2. Accurate and Robust Unitary Transformations of a High-Dimensional Quantum System

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Anderson, B. E.; Sosa-Martinez, H.; Riofrío, C. A.; Deutsch, Ivan H.; Jessen, Poul S.

    2015-06-01

    Unitary transformations are the most general input-output maps available in closed quantum systems. Good control protocols have been developed for qubits, but questions remain about the use of optimal control theory to design unitary maps in high-dimensional Hilbert spaces, and about the feasibility of their robust implementation in the laboratory. Here we design and implement unitary maps in a 16-dimensional Hilbert space associated with the 6 S1 /2 ground state of 133Cs, achieving fidelities >0.98 with built-in robustness to static and dynamic perturbations. Our work has relevance for quantum information processing and provides a template for similar advances on other physical platforms.

  3. Low-dimensional ordering and fluctuations in methanol-{beta}-hydroquinone clathrate studied by x-ray and neutron diffraction

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

    Rheinstaedter, Maikel C.; Enderle, Mechthild; Kloepperpieper, Axel

    2005-01-01

    Methanol-{beta}-hydroquinone clathrate has been established as a model system for dielectric ordering and fluctuations and is conceptually close to magnetic spin systems. In x-ray and neutron diffraction experiments, we investigated the ordered structure, the one-dimensional (1D) and the three-dimensional critical scattering in the paraelectric phase, and the temperature dependence of the lattice constants. Our results can be explained by microscopic models of the methanol pseudospin in the hydroquinone cage network, in consistency with previous dielectric investigations. A coupling of the 1D fluctuations to local strains leads to an anomalous temperature dependence of the 1D lattice parameter in the paraelectric regime.

  4. Three-dimensional reconstruction of TMJ MR images: a technical note and case report.

    PubMed

    Kitai, Noriyuki; Eriksson, Lars; Kreiborg, Sven; Wagner, Aase; Takada, Kenji

    2004-01-01

    MR images of the temporomandibular joint at occlusion and at various stages of mouth opening were registered and reconstructed three-dimensionally before and after a modified condylotomy in a patient with painful disk displacement. Following the condylotomy, the condyle/disk relationship had become normalized in all three planes of space at closed mouth and during mouth opening. The post-operative distances of the condylar and diskal paths had increased when compared with the preoperative distances. The three-dimensional visualizing method may, besides providing diagnostic advantages, be a valuable tool for qualitative and quantitative documentation of the efficiency of different treatment methods for normalization of the disk/condyle relationship in patients with TMJ disk displacement.

  5. Analytical modeling and analysis of magnetic field and torque for novel axial flux eddy current couplers with PM excitation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Zhao; Wang, Dazhi; Zheng, Di; Yu, Linxin

    2017-10-01

    Rotational permanent magnet eddy current couplers are promising devices for torque and speed transmission without any mechanical contact. In this study, flux-concentration disk-type permanent magnet eddy current couplers with double conductor rotor are investigated. Given the drawback of the accurate three-dimensional finite element method, this paper proposes a mixed two-dimensional analytical modeling approach. Based on this approach, the closed-form expressions of magnetic field, eddy current, electromagnetic force and torque for such devices are obtained. Finally, a three-dimensional finite element method is employed to validate the analytical results. Besides, a prototype is manufactured and tested for the torque-speed characteristic.

  6. The sunflower transcription factor HaHB11 confers tolerance to water deficit and salinity to transgenic Arabidopsis and alfalfa plants.

    PubMed

    Cabello, Julieta V; Giacomelli, Jorge I; Gómez, María C; Chan, Raquel L

    2017-09-10

    Homeodomain-leucine zipper (HD-Zip) transcription factors are unique to the plant kingdom; members of subfamily I are known to be involved in abiotic stress responses. HaHB11 belongs to this subfamily and it was previously shown that it is able to confer improved yield and tolerance to flooding via a quiescent strategy. Here we show that HaHB11 expression is induced by ABA, NaCl and water deficit in sunflower seedlings and leaves. Arabidopsis transgenic plants expressing HaHB11, controlled either by its own promoter or by the constitutive 35S CaMV, presented rolled leaves and longer roots than WT when grown under standard conditions. In addition, these plants showed wider stems and more vascular bundles. To deal with drought, HaHB11 transgenic plants closed their stomata faster and lost less water than controls, triggering an enhanced tolerance to such stress condition and also to salinity stress. Concomitantly, ABA-synthesis and sensing related genes were differentially regulated in HaHB11 transgenic plants. Either under long-term salinity stress or mild drought stress, HaHB11 transgenic plants did not exhibit yield penalties. Moreover, alfalfa transgenic plants were generated which also showed enhanced drought tolerance. Altogether, the results indicated that HaHB11 was able to confer drought and salinity tolerance via a complex mechanism which involves morphological, physiological and molecular changes. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  7. Prevention of diabetes with pioglitazone in ACT NOW: physiologic correlates.

    PubMed

    Defronzo, Ralph A; Tripathy, Devjit; Schwenke, Dawn C; Banerji, Maryann; Bray, George A; Buchanan, Thomas A; Clement, Stephen C; Gastaldelli, Amalia; Henry, Robert R; Kitabchi, Abbas E; Mudaliar, Sunder; Ratner, Robert E; Stentz, Frankie B; Musi, Nicolas; Reaven, Peter D

    2013-11-01

    We examined the metabolic characteristics that attend the development of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) in 441 impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) subjects who participated in the ACT NOW Study and had complete end-of-study metabolic measurements. Subjects were randomized to receive pioglitazone (PGZ; 45 mg/day) or placebo and were observed for a median of 2.4 years. Indices of insulin sensitivity (Matsuda index [MI]), insulin secretion (IS)/insulin resistance (IR; ΔI0-120/ΔG0-120, ΔIS rate [ISR]0-120/ΔG0-120), and β-cell function (ΔI/ΔG × MI and ΔISR/ΔG × MI) were calculated from plasma glucose, insulin, and C-peptide concentrations during oral glucose tolerance tests at baseline and study end. Diabetes developed in 45 placebo-treated vs. 15 PGZ-treated subjects (odds ratio [OR] 0.28 [95% CI 0.15-0.49]; P < 0.0001); 48% of PGZ-treated subjects reverted to normal glucose tolerance (NGT) versus 28% of placebo-treated subjects (P < 0.005). Higher final glucose tolerance status (NGT > IGT > T2DM) was associated with improvements in insulin sensitivity (OR 0.61 [95% CI 0.54-0.80]), IS (OR 0.61 [95% CI 0.50-0.75]), and β-cell function (ln IS/IR index and ln ISR/IR index) (OR 0.26 [95% CI 0.19-0.37]; all P < 0.0001). Of the factors measured, improved β-cell function was most closely associated with final glucose tolerance status.

  8. A modal H∞-norm-based performance requirement for damage-tolerant active controller design

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Genari, Helói F. G.; Mechbal, Nazih; Coffignal, Gérard; Nóbrega, Eurípedes G. O.

    2017-04-01

    Damage-tolerant active control (DTAC) is a recent research area that encompasses control design methodologies resulting from the application of fault-tolerant control methods to vibration control of structures subject to damage. The possibility of damage occurrence is not usually considered in the active vibration control design requirements. Damage changes the structure dynamics, which may produce unexpected modal behavior of the closed-loop system, usually not anticipated by the controller design approaches. A modal H∞ norm and a respective robust controller design framework were recently introduced, and this method is here extended to face a new DTAC strategy implementation. Considering that damage affects each vibration mode differently, this paper adopts the modal H∞ norm to include damage as a design requirement. The basic idea is to create an appropriate energy distribution over the frequency range of interest and respective vibration modes, guaranteeing robustness, damage tolerance, and adequate overall performance, taking into account that it is common to have previous knowledge of the structure regions where damage may occur during its operational life. For this purpose, a structural health monitoring technique is applied to evaluate modal modifications caused by damage. This information is used to create modal weighing matrices, conducting to the modal H∞ controller design. Finite element models are adopted for a case study structure, including different damage severities, in order to validate the proposed control strategy. Results show the effectiveness of the proposed methodology with respect to damage tolerance.

  9. Assessing the role of endophytic bacteria in the halophyte Arthrocnemum macrostachyum salt tolerance.

    PubMed

    Navarro-Torre, S; Barcia-Piedras, J M; Mateos-Naranjo, E; Redondo-Gómez, S; Camacho, M; Caviedes, M A; Pajuelo, E; Rodríguez-Llorente, I D

    2017-03-01

    There is an increasing interest to use halophytes for revegetation of salt affected ecosystems, as well as in understanding their mechanisms of salt tolerance. We hypothesized that bacteria from the phyllosphere of these plants might play a key role in its high tolerance to excessive salinity. Eight endophytic bacteria belonging to Bacillus and closely related genera were isolated from phyllosphere of the halophyte Arthrocnemum macrostachyum growing in salty agricultural soils. The presence of plant-growth promoting (PGP) properties, enzymatic activities and tolerance towards NaCl was determined. Effects of inoculation on seeds germination and adult plant growth under experimental NaCl treatments (0, 510 and 1030 mM NaCl) were studied. Inoculation with a consortium including the best performing bacteria improved considerably the kinetics of germination and the final germination percentage of A. macrostachyum seeds. At high NaCl concentrations (1030 mM), inoculation of plants mitigated the effects of high salinity on plant growth and physiological performance and, in addition, this consortium appears to have increased the potential of A. macrostachyum to accumulate Na + in its shoots, thus improving sodium phytoextraction capacity. Bacteria isolated from A. macrostachyum phyllosphere seem to play an important role in plant salt tolerance under stressing salt concentrations. The combined use of A. macrostachyum and its microbiome can be an adequate tool to enhance plant adaptation and sodium phytoextraction during restoration of salt degraded soils. © 2016 German Botanical Society and The Royal Botanical Society of the Netherlands.

  10. Development and manufacture of visor for helmet-mounted display

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Krevor, David H.; McNelly, Gregg; Skubon, John; Speirs, Robert

    2004-01-01

    The manufacturing design and process development for the Visor for the JHMCS (Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System) are discussed. The JHMCS system is a Helmet Mounted Display (HMD) system currently flying on the F-15, F-16 and F/A-18 aircraft. The Visor manufacturing processes are essential to both system performance and economy. The Visor functions both as the system optical combiner and personal protective equipment for the pilot. The Visor material is optical polycarbonate. For a military HMD system, the mechanical and environmental properties of the Visor are as necessary as the optical properties. The visor must meet stringent dimensional requirements to assure adequate system optical performance. Injection molding can provide dimensional fidelity to the requirements, if done properly. Concurrent design of the visor and the tool (i.e., the injection mold) is essential. The concurrent design necessarily considers manufacturing operations and the use environment of the Visor. Computer modeling of the molding process is a necessary input to the mold design. With proper attention to product design and tool development, it is possible to improve upon published standard dimensional tolerances for molded polycarbonate articles.

  11. Finite element analysis of a structural silicone shear bead used in skylight applications

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

    Travis, H.S.; Carbary, L.D.

    1998-12-31

    Finite element analysis (FEA) was used to predict stresses and strains in a 6 mm x 6 mm structural silicone joint on the edge of an overhead piece of glass. The project was undertaken because of a marketplace report that this particular type of joint was showing field leaks after 5--10 years of service. FEA was used to show the stresses and strains in the nominal joint design under negative wind uplifts. After a three dimensional FEA model of the skylight system was completed, the deformations in the model were used to load a series of two dimensional FEA modelsmore » of the silicone bead. The two dimensional bead models were completed at repeated intervals down the span, providing a finer mesh for recovering stresses and strains. All stresses and strains in this model were shown to be well within the working range of the silicone sealant properties. It was concluded that the field leaks were not due to excessive strains and could possibly be due to installation issues, mechanical damage or improper joints resulting from construction tolerances.« less

  12. Pathogenic Streptomyces spp. abundance affected by potato cultivars.

    PubMed

    Nahar, Kamrun; Goyer, Claudia; Zebarth, Bernie J; Burton, David L; Whitney, Sean

    2018-04-16

    Potato cultivars vary in their tolerance to common scab (CS), however how they affect CS-causing Streptomyces spp. populations over time is poorly understood. This study investigated the effects of potato cultivar on pathogenic Streptomyces spp. abundance, measured using quantitative PCR, in three spatial locations in a CS-infested field: 1) soil close to the plant (SCP); 2) rhizosphere (RS); and 3) geocaulosphere (GS) soils. Two tolerant (Gold Rush, Hindenburg) and two susceptible cultivars (Green Mountain, Agria) were tested. The abundance of pathogenic Streptomyces spp. significantly increased in late August compared with other dates in RS of susceptible cultivars in both years. Abundance of pathogenic Streptomyces spp., when averaged over locations and time, was significantly greater in susceptible cultivars compared with tolerant cultivars in 2014. Principal coordinates analysis showed that SCP and RS soil properties (pH, organic carbon and nitrogen concentrations) explained 68% and 76% of total variation in Streptomyces spp. abundance among cultivars in 2013, respectively, suggesting that cultivars influenced CS pathogen growth conditions. The results suggested that the genetic background of potato cultivars influenced the abundance of pathogenic Streptomyces spp., with 5 to 6 times more abundant Streptomyces spp. in RS of susceptible cultivars compared with tolerant cultivars, which would result in substantially more inoculum left in the field after harvest.  .

  13. Improved performance of analog and digital acousto-optic modulation with feedback under profiled beam propagation for secure communication using chaos

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Almehmadi, Fares S.; Chatterjee, Monish R.

    2014-12-01

    Using intensity feedback, the closed-loop behavior of an acousto-optic hybrid device under profiled beam propagation has been recently shown to exhibit wider chaotic bands potentially leading to an increase in both the dynamic range and sensitivity to key parameters that characterize the encryption. In this work, a detailed examination is carried out vis-à-vis the robustness of the encryption/decryption process relative to parameter mismatch for both analog and pulse code modulation signals, and bit error rate (BER) curves are used to examine the impact of additive white noise. The simulations with profiled input beams are shown to produce a stronger encryption key (i.e., much lower parametric tolerance thresholds) relative to simulations with uniform plane wave input beams. In each case, it is shown that the tolerance for key parameters drops by factors ranging from 10 to 20 times below those for uniform plane wave propagation. Results are shown to be at consistently lower tolerances for secure transmission of analog and digital signals using parameter tolerance measures, as well as BER performance measures for digital signals. These results hold out the promise for considerably greater information transmission security for such a system.

  14. The ecological rationality of delay tolerance: insights from capuchin monkeys.

    PubMed

    Addessi, Elsa; Paglieri, Fabio; Focaroli, Valentina

    2011-04-01

    Both human and non-human animals often face decisions between options available at different times, and the capacity of delaying gratification has usually been considered one of the features distinguishing humans from other animals. However, this characteristic can widely vary across individuals, species, and types of task and it is still unclear whether it is accounted for by phylogenetic relatedness, feeding ecology, social structure, or metabolic rate. To disentangle these hypotheses, we evaluated temporal preferences in capuchin monkeys, South-American primates that, despite splitting off from human lineage approximately 35 million years ago, show striking behavioural analogies with the great apes. Then, we compared capuchins' performance with that of the other primate species tested so far with the same procedure. Overall, capuchins showed a delay tolerance significantly higher than closely related species, such as marmosets and tamarins, and comparable to that shown by great apes. Capuchins' tool use abilities might explain their comparatively high preference for delayed options in inter-temporal choices. Moreover, as in humans, capuchin females showed a greater delay tolerance than males, possibly because of their less opportunistic foraging style. Thus, our results shed light on the evolutionary origins of self-control supporting explanations of delay tolerance in terms of feeding ecology. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  15. Impact of zinc supplementation on the improvement of ethanol tolerance and yield of self-flocculating yeast in continuous ethanol fermentation.

    PubMed

    Zhao, X Q; Xue, C; Ge, X M; Yuan, W J; Wang, J Y; Bai, F W

    2009-01-01

    The effects of zinc supplementation were investigated in the continuous ethanol fermentation using self-flocculating yeast. Zinc sulfate was added at the concentrations of 0.01, 0.05 and 0.1 g l(-1), respectively. Reduced average floc sizes were observed in all the zinc-supplemented cultures. Both the ethanol tolerance and thermal tolerance were significantly improved by zinc supplements, which correlated well with the increased ergosterol and trehalose contents in the yeast flocs. The highest ethanol concentration by 0.05 g l(-1) zinc sulfate supplementation attained 114.5 g l(-1), in contrast to 104.1 g l(-1) in the control culture. Glycerol production was decreased by zinc supplementations, with the lowest level 3.21 g l(-1), about 58% of the control. Zinc content in yeast cells was about 1.4 microMol g(-1) dry cell weight, about sixfold higher than that of control in all the zinc-supplemented cultures, and close correlation of zinc content in yeast cells with the cell viability against ethanol and heat shock treatment was observed. These studies suggest that exogenous zinc addition led to a reprogramming of cellular metabolic network, resulting in enhanced ethanol tolerance and ethanol production.

  16. Accuracy of parameter estimates for closely spaced optical targets using multiple detectors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dunn, K. P.

    1981-10-01

    In order to obtain the cross-scan position of an optical target, more than one scanning detector is used. As expected, the cross-scan position estimation performance degrades when two nearby optical targets interfere with each other. Theoretical bounds on the two-dimensional parameter estimation performance for two closely spaced optical targets are found. Two particular classes of scanning detector arrays, namely, the crow's foot and the brickwall (or mosaic) patterns, are considered.

  17. Direct Simulation of Evolution and Control of Three-Dimensional Instabilities in Attachment-Line Boundary Layers

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Joslin, Ronald D.

    1995-01-01

    The spatial evolution of three-dimensional disturbances in an attachment-line boundary layer is computed by direct numerical simulation of the unsteady, incompressible Navier-Stokes equations. Disturbances are introduced into the boundary layer by harmonic sources that involve unsteady suction and blowing through the wall. Various harmonic- source generators are implemented on or near the attachment line, and the disturbance evolutions are compared. Previous two-dimensional simulation results and nonparallel theory are compared with the present results. The three-dimensional simulation results for disturbances with quasi-two-dimensional features indicate growth rates of only a few percent larger than pure two-dimensional results; however, the results are close enough to enable the use of the more computationally efficient, two-dimensional approach. However, true three-dimensional disturbances are more likely in practice and are more stable than two-dimensional disturbances. Disturbances generated off (but near) the attachment line spread both away from and toward the attachment line as they evolve. The evolution pattern is comparable to wave packets in at-plate boundary-layer flows. Suction stabilizes the quasi-two-dimensional attachment-line instabilities, and blowing destabilizes these instabilities; these results qualitatively agree with the theory. Furthermore, suction stabilizes the disturbances that develop off the attachment line. Clearly, disturbances that are generated near the attachment line can supply energy to attachment-line instabilities, but suction can be used to stabilize these instabilities.

  18. Proteome profiling reveals insights into cold-tolerant growth in sea buckthorn.

    PubMed

    He, Caiyun; Gao, Guori; Zhang, Jianguo; Duan, Aiguo; Luo, Hongmei

    2016-01-01

    Low temperature is one of the crucial environmental factors limiting the productivity and distribution of plants. Sea buckthorn ( Hippophae rhamnoides L.), a well recognized multipurpose plant species, live successfully in in cold desert regions. But their molecular mechanisms underlying cold tolerance are not well understood. Physiological and biochemical responses to low-temperature stress were studied in seedlings of sea buckthorn. Differentially expressed protein spots were analyzed using multiplexing fluorescent two-dimensional fluorescence difference gel electrophoresis (2D-DIGE) coupled with matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) time-of-flight/time-of-flight (TOF/TOF) mass spectrometry (MS), the concentration of phytohormone was measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and a spectrophotometric assay was used to measure enzymatic reactions. With the increase of cold stress intensity, the photosynthesis rate, transpiration rate, stomatal conductance in leaves and contents of abscisic acid (ABA) and indole acetic acid (IAA) in roots decreased significantly; however, water-use efficiency, ABA and zeatin riboside in leaves increased significantly, while cell membrane permeability, malondialdehyde and IAA in leaves increased at 7 d and then decreased at 14 d. DIGE and MS/MS analysis identified 32 of 39 differentially expressed protein spots under low-temperature stress, and their functions were mainly involved in metabolism, photosynthesis, signal transduction, antioxidative systems and post-translational modification. The changed protein abundance and corresponding physiological-biochemical response shed light on the molecular mechanisms related to cold tolerance in cold-tolerant plants and provide key candidate proteins for genetic improvement of plants.

  19. Enhanced photosynthesis and redox energy production contribute to salinity tolerance in Dunaliella as revealed by homology-based proteomics.

    PubMed

    Liska, Adam J; Shevchenko, Andrej; Pick, Uri; Katz, Adriana

    2004-09-01

    Salinity is a major limiting factor for the proliferation of plants and inhibits central metabolic activities such as photosynthesis. The halotolerant green alga Dunaliella can adapt to hypersaline environments and is considered a model photosynthetic organism for salinity tolerance. To clarify the molecular basis for salinity tolerance, a proteomic approach has been applied for identification of salt-induced proteins in Dunaliella. Seventy-six salt-induced proteins were selected from two-dimensional gel separations of different subcellular fractions and analyzed by mass spectrometry (MS). Application of nanoelectrospray mass spectrometry, combined with sequence-similarity database-searching algorithms, MS BLAST and MultiTag, enabled identification of 80% of the salt-induced proteins. Salinity stress up-regulated key enzymes in the Calvin cycle, starch mobilization, and redox energy production; regulatory factors in protein biosynthesis and degradation; and a homolog of a bacterial Na(+)-redox transporters. The results indicate that Dunaliella responds to high salinity by enhancement of photosynthetic CO(2) assimilation and by diversion of carbon and energy resources for synthesis of glycerol, the osmotic element in Dunaliella. The ability of Dunaliella to enhance photosynthetic activity at high salinity is remarkable because, in most plants and cyanobacteria, salt stress inhibits photosynthesis. The results demonstrated the power of MS BLAST searches for the identification of proteins in organisms whose genomes are not known and paved the way for dissecting molecular mechanisms of salinity tolerance in algae and higher plants.

  20. Dimensional analysis of MINMOD leads to definition of the disposition index of glucose regulation and improved simulation algorithm.

    PubMed

    Nittala, Aparna; Ghosh, Soumitra; Stefanovski, Darko; Bergman, Richard; Wang, Xujing

    2006-07-14

    Frequently Sampled Intravenous Glucose Tolerance Test (FSIVGTT) together with its mathematical model, the minimal model (MINMOD), have become important clinical tools to evaluate the metabolic control of glucose in humans. Dimensional analysis of the model is up to now not available. A formal dimensional analysis of MINMOD was carried out and the degree of freedom of MINMOD was examined. Through re-expressing all state variable and parameters in terms of their reference scales, MINMOD was transformed into a dimensionless format. Previously defined physiological indices including insulin sensitivity, glucose effectiveness, and first and second phase insulin responses were re-examined in this new formulation. Further, the parameter estimation from FSIVGTT was implemented using both the dimensional and the dimensionless formulations of MINMOD, and the performances were compared utilizing Monte Carlo simulation as well as real human FSIVGTT data. The degree of freedom (DOF) of MINMOD was found to be 7. The model was maximally simplified in the dimensionless formulation that normalizes the variation in glucose and insulin during FSIVGTT. In the new formulation, the disposition index (Dl), a composite parameter known to be important in diabetes pathology, was naturally defined as one of the dimensionless parameters in the system. The numerical simulation using the dimensionless formulation led to a 1.5-5 fold gain in speed, and significantly improved accuracy and robustness in parameter estimation compared to the dimensional implementation. Dimensional analysis of MINMOD led to simplification of the model, direct identification of the important composite factors in the dynamics of glucose metabolic control, and better simulations algorithms.

  1. Effects of Fuel Composition on EGR Dilution Tolerance in Spark Ignited Engines

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

    Szybist, James P

    2016-01-01

    Fuel-specific differences in exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) dilution tolerance are studied in a modern, direct-injection single-cylinder research engine. A total of 6 model fuel blends are examined at a constant research octane number (RON) of 95 using n-heptane, iso-octane, toluene, and ethanol. Laminar flame speeds for these mixtures, which were calculated two different methods (an energy fraction mixing rule and a detailed kinetic simulation), spanned a range of about 6 cm/s. A constant fueling nominal load of 350 kPa IMEPg at 2000 rpm was operated with varying CA50 from 8-20 CAD aTDCf, and with EGR increasing until a COV ofmore » IMEP of 5% is reached. The results illustrate that flame speed affects EGR dilution tolerance; fuels with increased flame speeds increase EGR tolerance. Specifically, flame speed correlates most closely to the initial flame kernel growth, measured as the time of ignition to 5% mass fraction burned. The effect of the latent heat of vaporization on the flame speed is taken into account for the ethanol-containing fuels. At a 30 vol% blend level, the increased enthalpy of vaporization of ethanol compared to conventional hydrocarbons can decrease the temperature at the time of ignition by a maximum of 15 C, which can account for up to a 3.5 cm/s decrease in flame speed. The ethanol-containing fuels, however, still exhibit a flame speed advantage, and a dilution tolerance advantage over the slower flame-speed fuels. The fuel-specific differences in dilution tolerance are significant at the condition examined, allowing for a 50% relative increase in EGR (4% absolute difference in EGR) at a constant COV of IMEP of 3%.« less

  2. Indices of benthic community tolerance in contaminated Great Lakes sediments: Relations with sediment contaminant concentrations, sediment toxicity, and the sediment quality triad

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Wildhaber, M.L.; Schmitt, C.J.

    1998-01-01

    We evaluated the toxic-units model developed by Wildhaber and Schmitt (1996) as a predictor of indices of mean tolerance to pollution (i.e., Lenat, 1993; Hilsenhoff, 1987) and other benthic community indices from Great Lakes sediments containing complex mixtures of environmental contaminants (e.g., polychlorinated biphenyls – PCBs, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons – PAHs, pesticides, chlorinated dioxins, and metals). Sediment toxic units were defined as the ratio of the estimated pore-water concentration of a contaminant to its chronic toxicity as estimated by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Ambient Water Quality Criteria (AWQC) or other applicable standard. The total hazard of a sediment to aquatic life was assessed by summing toxic units for all contaminants quantified. Among the benthic community metrics evaluated, total toxic units were most closely correlated with Lenat's (1993) and Hilsenhoff's (1987) indices of community tolerance (TL and TH, respectively); toxic units accounted for 42% TL and 53% TH of variability in community tolerance as measured by Ponar grabs. In contrast, taxonomic richness and Shannon-Wiener diversity were not correlated (P > 0.05) with toxic units. Substitution of order- or family-level identifications for lowest possible (mostly genus- or species-) level identifications in the calculation of TL and TH indices weakened the relationships with toxic units. Tolerance values based on order- and family-level identifications of benthos for artificial substrate samples were more strongly correlated with toxic units than tolerance values for benthos from Ponar grabs. The ability of the toxic-units model to predict the other two components (i.e., laboratory-measured sediment toxicity and benthic community composition) of the Sediment Quality Triad (SQT) may obviate the need for the SQT in some situations.

  3. The Xenon Test Chamber Q-SUN® for testing realistic tolerances of fungi exposed to simulated full spectrum solar radiation.

    PubMed

    Dias, Luciana P; Araújo, Claudinéia A S; Pupin, Breno; Ferreira, Paulo C; Braga, Gilberto Ú L; Rangel, Drauzio E N

    2018-06-01

    The low survival of insect-pathogenic fungi when used for insect control in agriculture is mainly due to the deleterious effects of ultraviolet radiation and heat from solar irradiation. In this study, conidia of 15 species of entomopathogenic fungi were exposed to simulated full-spectrum solar radiation emitted by a Xenon Test Chamber Q-SUN XE-3-HC 340S (Q-LAB ® Corporation, Westlake, OH, USA), which very closely simulates full-spectrum solar radiation. A dendrogram obtained from cluster analyses, based on lethal time 50 % and 90 % calculated by Probit analyses, separated the fungi into three clusters: cluster 3 contains species with highest tolerance to simulated full-spectrum solar radiation, included Metarhizium acridum, Cladosporium herbarum, and Trichothecium roseum with LT 50  > 200 min irradiation. Cluster 2 contains eight species with moderate UV tolerance: Aschersonia aleyrodis, Isaria fumosorosea, Mariannaea pruinosa, Metarhizium anisopliae, Metarhizium brunneum, Metarhizium robertsii, Simplicillium lanosoniveum, and Torrubiella homopterorum with LT 50 between 120 and 150 min irradiation. The four species in cluster 1 had the lowest UV tolerance: Lecanicillium aphanocladii, Beauveria bassiana, Tolypocladium cylindrosporum, and Tolypocladium inflatum with LT 50  < 120 min irradiation. The QSUN Xenon Test Chamber XE3 is often used by the pharmaceutical and automotive industry to test light stability and weathering, respectively, but it was never used to evaluate fungal tolerance to full-spectrum solar radiation before. We conclude that the equipment provided an excellent tool for testing realistic tolerances of fungi to full-spectrum solar radiation of microbial agents for insect biological control in agriculture. Copyright © 2018 British Mycological Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  4. CSP41b, a protein identified via FOX hunting using Eutrema salsugineum cDNAs, improves heat and salinity stress tolerance in transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana.

    PubMed

    Ariga, Hirotaka; Tanaka, Tomoko; Ono, Hirokazu; Sakata, Yoichi; Hayashi, Takahisa; Taji, Teruaki

    2015-08-14

    Eutrema salsugineum (also known as Thellungiella salsuginea and formerly Thellungiella halophila), a species closely related to Arabidopsis thaliana, shows tolerance not only to salt stress, but also to chilling, freezing, and high temperatures. To identify genes responsible for stress tolerance, we conducted Full-length cDNA Over-eXpressing gene (FOX) hunting among a collection of E. salsugineum cDNAs that were stress-induced according to gene ontology analysis or over-expressed in E. salsugineum compared with A. thaliana. We identified E. salsugineum CSP41b (chloroplast stem-loop-binding protein of 41 kDa; also known as CRB, chloroplast RNA binding; named here as EsCSP41b) as a gene that can confer heat and salinity stress tolerance on A. thaliana. A. thaliana CSP41b is reported to play an important role in the proper functioning of the chloroplast: the atcsp41b mutant is smaller and paler than wild-type plants and shows altered chloroplast morphology and photosynthetic performance. We observed that AtCSP41b-overexpressing transgenic A. thaliana lines also exhibited marked heat tolerance and significant salinity stress tolerance. The EsCSP41b-overexpressing transgenic A. thaliana lines showed significantly higher photosynthesis activity than wild-type plants not only under normal growth conditions but also under heat stress. In wild-type plants, the expression levels of both EsCSP41b and AtCSP41b were significantly reduced under heat or salinity stress. We conclude that maintenance of CSP41b expression under abiotic stresses may alleviate photoinhibition and improve survival under such stresses. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  5. Piezoelectrically forced vibrations of rectangular SC-cut quartz plates

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lee, P. C. Y.; Lin, W. S.

    1998-06-01

    A system of two-dimensional first-order equations for piezoelectric crystal plates with general symmetry and with electroded faces was recently deduced from the three-dimensional equations of linear piezoelectricity. Solutions of these equations for AT-cut plates of quartz were shown to give accurate dispersion curves without corrections, and the resonances predicted agree closely with the experimental data of Koga and Fukuyo [I. Koga and H. Fukuyo, J. Inst. Electr. Commun. Eng. Jpn. 36, 59 (1953)] and that of Nakazawa, Horiuchi, and Ito (M. Nakazawa, K. Horiuchi, and H. Ito, Proceedings of the 1990 IEEE Ultrasonics Symposium, pp. 547-555). In this article, these equations are employed to study the free as well as the forced vibrations of doubly rotated quartz plates. Solutions of straight-crested vibrational modes varying in the x1 and x3 directions of SC-cut quartz plates of infinite extent are obtained and from which dispersion curves are computed. Comparison of those dispersion curves with those from the three-dimensional equations shows that the agreement is very close without any corrections. Resonance frequencies for free vibrations and capacitance ratios for piezoelectrically forced vibrations are computed and examined for various length-to-thickness or width-to-thickness ratios of rectangular SC-cut quartz plates. The capacitance ratio as a function of forcing frequency is computed for a rectangular AT-cut quartz and compared with the experimental data of Seikimoto, Watanabe, and Nakazawa (H. Sekimoto, Y. Watanabe, and M. Nakazawa, Proceedings of the 1992 IEEE Frequency Control Symposium, pp. 532-536) and is in close agreement.

  6. Close-range laser scanning in forests: towards physically based semantics across scales.

    PubMed

    Morsdorf, F; Kükenbrink, D; Schneider, F D; Abegg, M; Schaepman, M E

    2018-04-06

    Laser scanning with its unique measurement concept holds the potential to revolutionize the way we assess and quantify three-dimensional vegetation structure. Modern laser systems used at close range, be it on terrestrial, mobile or unmanned aerial platforms, provide dense and accurate three-dimensional data whose information just waits to be harvested. However, the transformation of such data to information is not as straightforward as for airborne and space-borne approaches, where typically empirical models are built using ground truth of target variables. Simpler variables, such as diameter at breast height, can be readily derived and validated. More complex variables, e.g. leaf area index, need a thorough understanding and consideration of the physical particularities of the measurement process and semantic labelling of the point cloud. Quantified structural models provide a framework for such labelling by deriving stem and branch architecture, a basis for many of the more complex structural variables. The physical information of the laser scanning process is still underused and we show how it could play a vital role in conjunction with three-dimensional radiative transfer models to shape the information retrieval methods of the future. Using such a combined forward and physically based approach will make methods robust and transferable. In addition, it avoids replacing observer bias from field inventories with instrument bias from different laser instruments. Still, an intensive dialogue with the users of the derived information is mandatory to potentially re-design structural concepts and variables so that they profit most of the rich data that close-range laser scanning provides.

  7. Three-dimensional six-connecting organic building blocks based on polychlorotriphenylmethyl units--synthesis, self-assembly, and magnetic properties.

    PubMed

    Roques, Nans; Maspoch, Daniel; Wurst, Klaus; Ruiz-Molina, Daniel; Rovira, Concepció; Veciana, Jaume

    2006-12-13

    The synthesis of a three-dimensional, six-connecting, organic building block based on a robust, rigid, and open-shell polychlorotriphenylmethyl (PTM) unit (radical 1) is reported, and its self-assembly properties are described in detail. The tendencies of this highly polar molecule and its hydrogenated precursor, compound 4, to form hydrogen bonds with oxygenated solvents ([1THF(6)] and [4THF(6)]) were reduced by replacing THF with diethyl ether in the crystallization process to yield two-dimensional (2D) hydrogen-bonded structures ([1(Et(2)O)(3)] and [4(Et(2)O)(3)]). The presence of direct hydrogen bonds between the radicals in the latter phase of 1 gives rise to very weak ferromagnetic intermolecular interactions at low temperatures, whereas when the radicals are isolated by THF molecules these interactions are antiferromagnetic and very weak. The role played by the carboxylic groups not only in the self-assembly properties but also in the transmission of the magnetic interactions has been illustrated by determination of the crystal structure and measurement of the magnetic properties of the corresponding hexaester radical 6, in which the close packing of molecular units gives rise to weak antiferromagnetic intermolecular interactions. Attempts to avoid solvation of the molecules in the solid state and to increase the structural and magnetic dimensionality were pursued by recrystallization of both compounds 1 and 4 from concentrated nitric acid, affording two three-dimensional (3D) robust hydrogen-bonded structures. While the structure obtained with compound 4 is characterized by the presence of polar channels and boxes containing water guest molecules along the c axis, radical 1 was oxidized to the corresponding fuchsone 10, which presented a completely different close-packed, guest-free structure.

  8. What is integrability of discrete variational systems?

    PubMed

    Boll, Raphael; Petrera, Matteo; Suris, Yuri B

    2014-02-08

    We propose a notion of a pluri-Lagrangian problem, which should be understood as an analogue of multi-dimensional consistency for variational systems. This is a development along the line of research of discrete integrable Lagrangian systems initiated in 2009 by Lobb and Nijhoff, however, having its more remote roots in the theory of pluriharmonic functions, in the Z -invariant models of statistical mechanics and their quasiclassical limit, as well as in the theory of variational symmetries going back to Noether. A d -dimensional pluri-Lagrangian problem can be described as follows: given a d -form [Formula: see text] on an m -dimensional space (called multi-time, m > d ), whose coefficients depend on a sought-after function x of m independent variables (called field), find those fields x which deliver critical points to the action functionals [Formula: see text] for any d -dimensional manifold Σ in the multi-time. We derive the main building blocks of the multi-time Euler-Lagrange equations for a discrete pluri-Lagrangian problem with d =2, the so-called corner equations, and discuss the notion of consistency of the system of corner equations. We analyse the system of corner equations for a special class of three-point two-forms, corresponding to integrable quad-equations of the ABS list. This allows us to close a conceptual gap of the work by Lobb and Nijhoff by showing that the corresponding two-forms are closed not only on solutions of (non-variational) quad-equations, but also on general solutions of the corresponding corner equations. We also find an example of a pluri-Lagrangian system not coming from a multi-dimensionally consistent system of quad-equations.

  9. What is integrability of discrete variational systems?

    PubMed Central

    Boll, Raphael; Petrera, Matteo; Suris, Yuri B.

    2014-01-01

    We propose a notion of a pluri-Lagrangian problem, which should be understood as an analogue of multi-dimensional consistency for variational systems. This is a development along the line of research of discrete integrable Lagrangian systems initiated in 2009 by Lobb and Nijhoff, however, having its more remote roots in the theory of pluriharmonic functions, in the Z-invariant models of statistical mechanics and their quasiclassical limit, as well as in the theory of variational symmetries going back to Noether. A d-dimensional pluri-Lagrangian problem can be described as follows: given a d-form on an m-dimensional space (called multi-time, m>d), whose coefficients depend on a sought-after function x of m independent variables (called field), find those fields x which deliver critical points to the action functionals for any d-dimensional manifold Σ in the multi-time. We derive the main building blocks of the multi-time Euler–Lagrange equations for a discrete pluri-Lagrangian problem with d=2, the so-called corner equations, and discuss the notion of consistency of the system of corner equations. We analyse the system of corner equations for a special class of three-point two-forms, corresponding to integrable quad-equations of the ABS list. This allows us to close a conceptual gap of the work by Lobb and Nijhoff by showing that the corresponding two-forms are closed not only on solutions of (non-variational) quad-equations, but also on general solutions of the corresponding corner equations. We also find an example of a pluri-Lagrangian system not coming from a multi-dimensionally consistent system of quad-equations. PMID:24511254

  10. A promoter swap strategy between the AtALMT and AtMATE genes increased arabidopsis aluminum resistance and improved carbon use efficiency for aluminum resistance

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    In Arabidopsis, aluminum (Al)-activated AtALMT1-mediated root malate exudation plays a major role in Al tolerance, while Al-activated AtMATE-mediated citrate exudation plays a much smaller role. In this study, we demonstrate that the levels of Al-activated root organic acid exudation are closely co...

  11. Nozzles for Focusing Aerosol Particles

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2009-10-01

    Fabrication of the nozzle with the desired shape was accomplished using EDM technology. First, a copper tungsten electrode was turned on a CNC lathe . The...small (0.9-mm diameter). The external portions of the nozzles were machined in a more conventional manner using computer numerical control ( CNC ... lathes and milling machines running programs written by computer aided machining (CAM) software. The close tolerance of concentricity of the two

  12. Effects of the Abnormal Acceleratory Environment of Flight

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1974-12-01

    vision Return of arteriolar pulsa- tion and temporary venous distension Visual failure is a continuum from loss of peripheral vision (grey- out) to...distance); intrathoracic pressure is increased by strong muscular expiratorv efforts against a partially closed glottis; and the contraction of...vigorous skeletal muscular tensing (Valsalva maneuver) can reduce +GZ tolerance and lead to an episode of unconsciousness at extremely low G levels

  13. Recurrence spectra of a helium atom in parallel electric and magnetic fields

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

    Wang, Dehua; Department of Mathematics and Physics, Shandong Architecture and Engineering Institute, Jinan 250014, People's Republic of China; Ding, Shiliang

    2003-08-01

    A model potential for the general Rydberg atom is put forward, which includes not only the Coulomb interaction potential and the core-attractive potential, but also the exchange potential between the excited electron and other electrons. Using the region-splitting consistent and iterative method, we calculated the scaled recurrence spectra of the helium atom in parallel electric and magnetic fields and the closed orbits in the corresponding classical system have also been obtained. In order to remove the Coulomb singularity of the classical motion of Hamiltonian, we implement the Kustaanheimo-Stiefel transformation, which transforms the system from a three-dimensional to a four-dimensional one.more » The Fourier-transformed spectra of the helium atom has allowed direct comparison between peaks in such a plot and the scaled action values of closed orbits. Considering the exchange potential, the number of the closed orbits increased, which led to more peaks in the recurrence spectra. The results are compared with those of the hydrogen case, which shows that the core-scattered effects and the electron exchange potential play an important role in the multielectron Rydberg atom.« less

  14. Interpretable dimensionality reduction of single cell transcriptome data with deep generative models.

    PubMed

    Ding, Jiarui; Condon, Anne; Shah, Sohrab P

    2018-05-21

    Single-cell RNA-sequencing has great potential to discover cell types, identify cell states, trace development lineages, and reconstruct the spatial organization of cells. However, dimension reduction to interpret structure in single-cell sequencing data remains a challenge. Existing algorithms are either not able to uncover the clustering structures in the data or lose global information such as groups of clusters that are close to each other. We present a robust statistical model, scvis, to capture and visualize the low-dimensional structures in single-cell gene expression data. Simulation results demonstrate that low-dimensional representations learned by scvis preserve both the local and global neighbor structures in the data. In addition, scvis is robust to the number of data points and learns a probabilistic parametric mapping function to add new data points to an existing embedding. We then use scvis to analyze four single-cell RNA-sequencing datasets, exemplifying interpretable two-dimensional representations of the high-dimensional single-cell RNA-sequencing data.

  15. Three-dimensional finite element modelling of muscle forces during mastication.

    PubMed

    Röhrle, Oliver; Pullan, Andrew J

    2007-01-01

    This paper presents a three-dimensional finite element model of human mastication. Specifically, an anatomically realistic model of the masseter muscles and associated bones is used to investigate the dynamics of chewing. A motion capture system is used to track the jaw motion of a subject chewing standard foods. The three-dimensional nonlinear deformation of the masseter muscles are calculated via the finite element method, using the jaw motion data as boundary conditions. Motion-driven muscle activation patterns and a transversely isotropic material law, defined in a muscle-fibre coordinate system, are used in the calculations. Time-force relationships are presented and analysed with respect to different tasks during mastication, e.g. opening, closing, and biting, and are also compared to a more traditional one-dimensional model. The results strongly suggest that, due to the complex arrangement of muscle force directions, modelling skeletal muscles as conventional one-dimensional lines of action might introduce a significant source of error.

  16. From Two- to Three-Dimensional Structures of a Supertetrahedral Boran Using Density Functional Calculations.

    PubMed

    Getmanskii, Iliya V; Minyaev, Ruslan M; Steglenko, Dmitrii V; Koval, Vitaliy V; Zaitsev, Stanislav A; Minkin, Vladimir I

    2017-08-14

    With help of the DFT calculations and imposing of periodic boundary conditions the geometrical and electronic structures were investigated of two- and three-dimensional boron systems designed on the basis of graphane and diamond lattices in which carbons were replaced with boron tetrahedrons. The consequent studies of two- and three-layer systems resulted in the construction of a three-dimensional supertetrahedral borane crystal structure. The two-dimensional supertetrahedral borane structures with less than seven layers are dynamically unstable. At the same time the three-dimensional superborane systems were found to be dynamically stable. Lack of the forbidden electronic zone for the studied boron systems testifies that these structures can behave as good conductors. The low density of the supertetrahedral borane crystal structures (0.9 g cm -3 ) is close to that of water, which offers the perspective for their application as aerospace and cosmic materials. © 2017 The Authors. Published by Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA.

  17. A variable-order laminated plate theory based on the variational-asymptotical method

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Lee, Bok W.; Sutyrin, Vladislav G.; Hodges, Dewey H.

    1993-01-01

    The variational-asymptotical method is a mathematical technique by which the three-dimensional analysis of laminated plate deformation can be split into a linear, one-dimensional, through-the-thickness analysis and a nonlinear, two-dimensional, plate analysis. The elastic constants used in the plate analysis are obtained from the through-the-thickness analysis, along with approximate, closed-form three-dimensional distributions of displacement, strain, and stress. In this paper, a theory based on this technique is developed which is capable of approximating three-dimensional elasticity to any accuracy desired. The asymptotical method allows for the approximation of the through-the-thickness behavior in terms of the eigenfunctions of a certain Sturm-Liouville problem associated with the thickness coordinate. These eigenfunctions contain all the necessary information about the nonhomogeneities along the thickness coordinate of the plate and thus possess the appropriate discontinuities in the derivatives of displacement. The theory is presented in this paper along with numerical results for the eigenfunctions of various laminated plates.

  18. Greedy subspace clustering.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2016-09-01

    We consider the problem of subspace clustering: given points that lie on or near the union of many low-dimensional linear subspaces, recover the subspaces. To this end, one first identifies sets of points close to the same subspace and uses the sets ...

  19. Mechanical systems with closed orbits on manifolds of revolution

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

    Kudryavtseva, E A; Fedoseev, D A

    We study natural mechanical systems describing the motion of a particle on a two-dimensional Riemannian manifold of revolution in the field of a central smooth potential. We obtain a classification of Riemannian manifolds of revolution and central potentials on them that have the strong Bertrand property: any nonsingular (that is, not contained in a meridian) orbit is closed. We also obtain a classification of manifolds of revolution and central potentials on them that have the 'stable' Bertrand property: every parallel is an 'almost stable' circular orbit, and any nonsingular bounded orbit is closed. Bibliography: 14 titles.

  20. Effective use of congestion in complex networks

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Echagüe, Juan; Cholvi, Vicent; Kowalski, Dariusz R.

    2018-03-01

    In this paper, we introduce a congestion-aware routing protocol that selects the paths according to the congestion of nodes in the network. The aim is twofold: on one hand, and in order to prevent the networks from collapsing, it provides a good tolerance to nodes' overloads; on the other hand, and in order to guarantee efficient communication, it also incentivize the routes to follow short paths. We analyze the performance of our proposed routing strategy by means of a series of experiments carried out by using simulations. We show that it provides a tolerance to collapse close to the optimal value. Furthermore, the average length of the paths behaves optimally up to the certain value of packet generation rate ρ and it grows in a linear fashion with the increase of ρ.

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