Implementation of a spark plasma sintering facility in a hermetic glovebox for compaction of toxic, radiotoxic, and air sensitive materials

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

Tyrpekl, V., E-mail: vaclav.tyrpekl@ec.europa.eu, E-mail: vaclav.tyrpekl@gmail.com; Berkmann, C.; Holzhäuser, M.

Spark plasma sintering (SPS) is a rapidly developing method for densification of powders into compacts. It belongs to the so-called “field assisted sintering techniques” that enable rapid sintering at much lower temperatures than the classical approaches of pressureless sintering of green pellets or hot isostatic pressing. In this paper, we report the successful integration of a SPS device into a hermetic glovebox for the handling of highly radioactive material containing radioisotopes of U, Th, Pu, Np, and Am. The glovebox implantation has been facilitated by the replacement of the hydraulic system to apply pressure with a compact electromechanical unit. Themore » facility has been successfully tested using UO{sub 2} powder. Pellets with 97% of the theoretical density were obtained at 1000 °C for 5 min, significantly lower than the ∼1600 °C for 5-10 h used in conventional pellet sintering.« less

Probing the Milky Way electron density using multi-messenger astronomy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Breivik, Katelyn; Larson, Shane

2015-04-01

Multi-messenger observations of ultra-compact binaries in both gravitational waves and electromagnetic radiation supply highly complementary information, providing new ways of characterizing the internal dynamics of these systems, as well as new probes of the galaxy itself. Electron density models, used in pulsar distance measurements via the electron dispersion measure, are currently not well constrained. Simultaneous radio and gravitational wave observations of pulsars in binaries provide a method of measuring the average electron density along the line of sight to the pulsar, thus giving a new method for constraining current electron density models. We present this method and assess its viability with simulations of the compact binary component of the Milky Way using the public domain binary evolution code, BSE. This work is supported by NASA Award NNX13AM10G.

Rock magnetic and anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility(AMS) of earthquake affected soft sediments: Examples from Shillong and Latur (Deccan Trap), India.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lakshmi, B. V., ,, Dr.; Gawali, Mr. Praveen B.; Deenadayalan, K., ,, Dr.; Ramesh, D. S., ,, Prof.

2017-04-01

Rock magnetic and anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMS) of earthquake affected soft sediments: Examples from Shillong and Latur (Deccan Trap), India. B.V.Lakshmi, Praveen B.Gawali, K.Deenadayalan and D.S.Ramesh Indian Institute of Geomagnetism, plot 5, sector 18, Near Kalamboli Highway, New Panvel(W), Navi Mumbai 410218 Combined rock magnetism and anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMS) studies on earthquake induced soft and non-soft sediments from Shillong and Latur, India have thrown up interesting results. The morphology of hysteresis loops, the pattern of isothermal remanent magnetization (IRM) acquisition, and temperature dependence of susceptibility indicate that titano-magnetite/magnetite is the main magnetic carrier in these sediments. We also analyzed the anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMS) of liquefaction features within the seismically active Dauki fault, Shillong Plateau. We discovered that host sediments (non-liquefied), are characterized by an oblate AMS ellipsoid and liquefied sediment are characterized by a triaxial AMS ellipsoid, well grouped maximum susceptibility axis K1 (NNW-SSE trend). Field evidence and AMS analysis indicate that most of these features were emplaced by injection inferred to be due to seismically triggered fluidization. Anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMS) of deformed and undeformed unconsolidated clay samples of Deccan Trap terrain from the 2000-year-old paleoearthquake site of Ther village, Maharashtra, India, was also studied. Such deposits are rare in the compact basaltic terrain because of which the results acquired are very important. The undeformed clay samples exhibit typical sedimentary fabric with an oblate AMS ellipsoid, whereas the deformed samples are tightly grouped in the inferred compression direction, probably effected by an earthquake, exhibiting prolate as well as oblate AMS ellipsoids. Rock magnetic and AMS methodology can help understand the behavior of different sediments to the regional deformational processes active in the Himalayan region, and possibly local deformational activities in the compact Deccan trap region. The accumulating stress and strain direction can be delineated to infer strike of the forces accumulating stresses. These studies can be used to build the chronology of past earthquakes.

Effectiveness of nonporous windscreens for infrasonic measurements.

PubMed

Dauchez, Nicolas; Hayot, Maxime; Denis, Stéphane

2016-06-01

This paper deals with nonporous windscreens used for reducing noise in infrasonic measurements. A model of sound transmission using a modal approach is derived. The system is a square plate coupled with a cavity. The model agrees with finite element simulations and measurements performed on two windscreens: a cubic windscreen using a material recommended by Shams, Zuckerwar, and Sealey [J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 118, 1335-1340 (2005)] and an optimized flat windscreen made out of aluminum. Only the latter was found to couple acoustical waves below 10 Hz without any attenuation. Moreover, wind noise reduction measurements show that nonporous windscreens perform similarly as a pipe array by averaging the pressure fluctuations. These results question the assumptions of Shams et al. and Zuckerwar [J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 127, 3327-3334 (2010)] about compact nonporous windscreens design and effectiveness.

Surface-specific additive manufacturing test artefacts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Townsend, Andrew; Racasan, Radu; Blunt, Liam

2018-06-01

Many test artefact designs have been proposed for use with additive manufacturing (AM) systems. These test artefacts have primarily been designed for the evaluation of AM form and dimensional performance. A series of surface-specific measurement test artefacts designed for use in the verification of AM manufacturing processes are proposed here. Surface-specific test artefacts can be made more compact because they do not require the large dimensions needed for accurate dimensional and form measurements. The series of three test artefacts are designed to provide comprehensive information pertaining to the manufactured surface. Measurement possibilities include deviation analysis, surface texture parameter data generation, sub-surface analysis, layer step analysis and build resolution comparison. The test artefacts are designed to provide easy access for measurement using conventional surface measurement techniques, for example, focus variation microscopy, stylus profilometry, confocal microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Additionally, the test artefacts may be simply visually inspected as a comparative tool, giving a fast indication of process variation between builds. The three test artefacts are small enough to be included in every build and include built-in manufacturing traceability information, making them a convenient physical record of the build.

On the Nature of the Bright Short-Period X-Ray Source in the Circinus Galaxy Field

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Weisskopf, Martin C.; Wu, Kinwah; Tennant, Allyn F.; Swartz, Douglas A.; Ghosh, Kajal K.

2004-01-01

The spectrum and light curve of the bright X-ray source CG X-1 in the field of the Circinus galaxy are reexamined. Previous analyses have concluded that the source is an accreting black hole of mass > or approx. 50 solar masses although it has been noted that the light curve resembles that of an AM Herculis system. Here we show that the short period and an assumed main-sequence companion constrain the mass of the companion to less than 1 solar mass. Furthermore, a possible eclipse seen during one of the Chandra observations and a subsequent XMM-Newton observation constrain the mass of the compact object to less than 60 solar masses. If such a system lies in the Circinus galaxy, then the accreting object must either radiate anisotropically or strongly violate the Eddington limit. Even if the emission is beamed, then the companion star that intercepts this flux during eclipse will be driven out of thermal equilibrium and evaporate within approx. 10(exp 3) yr. We find that the observations cannot rule out an AM Herculis system in the Milky Way and that such a system can account for the variations seen in the light curve.

Tribological Performance of Ni3Al Matrix Self-Lubricating Composites Containing Multilayer Graphene Prepared by Additive Manufacturing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yan, Zhao; Shi, Xiaoliang; Huang, Yuchun; Deng, Xiaobin; Liu, Xiyao; Yang, Kang

2018-01-01

In order to improve tribological performance of Ni3Al-based alloy, Ni3Al matrix composites containing 1.5 wt.% multilayer graphene (MLG) are prepared through additive manufacturing (AM) and spark plasma sintering (SPS), which are denoted as NMAM and NMSPS, respectively. Tribological behaviors of NMAM and NMSPS against Si3N4 balls are researched under constant speed (0.2 m/s) and varied loads (from 4 to 16 N) for evaluating the tribological properties of NMAM and NMSPS. The results present that NMAM exhibits the excellent tribological properties [low friction coefficients (0.26-0.40) and considerable wear resistance (2.8-4.6 × 10-5 mm3 N-1 m-1)] as compared to NMSPS, which attributes to the uniform enrichment of MLG with properties of high tensile strength and being easily sheared off on the worn surfaces. Owing to the use of spherical prealloyed powder containing multilayer graphene and the characteristics of layer by layer depositing in the AM process, NMAM has a more compact and uniform substrate, which persistently provides a source of the formation of continuous and stable frictional layer. Due to the characteristics of AM rapid solidification, NMAM has the small grain size and well-compacted microstructure, which can effectively reduce the probability of spalling wear and lead to the increase in wear resistance of materials. The research can offer the reference for self-lubricating materials prepared by AM technology.

Scattering effects on the performance of carbon nanotube field effect transistor in a compact model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hamieh, S. D.; Desgreys, P.; Naviner, J. F.

2010-01-01

Carbon nanotube field-effect transistors (CNTFET) are being extensively studied as possible successors to CMOS. Device simulators have been developed to estimate their performance in sub-10-nm and device structures have been fabricated. In this work, a new compact model of single-walled semiconducting CNTFET is proposed implementing the calculation of energy conduction sub-band minima and the treatment of scattering effects through energy shift in CNTFET. The developed model has been used to simulate I-V characteristics using VHDL-AMS simulator.

Hi Image Synthesis of Southern Compact Groups

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Babic, B.; Price, R. M.; Jones, K.

Four southern compact groups, the Hickson Compact Groups HCG 22 and HCG 26 (Hickson 1982), and the groups AM 1238 - 396 and ESO 410-G(024 - 026) have been imaged in Hi, along with 12 cm continuum using the Australia Telescope Compact Array (ATCA). The initial findings for the latter two groups are presented here. While ESO 410-G is not in fact a physical group, due to the discordant redshifts amongst the members, it is however presented here. Overall for all the groups we find no other sources of Hi in the field that might indicate that these are part of a larger loose group structure. This is not always the case, as with HCG 23 (Williams 1995) and HCG 95 (Hutchmeier 1999), both of whom find additional Hi sources within the primary beam accordant with the compact group's velocity. The Hi is also clearly associated with each of the individual member galaxies in all cases, except for HCG 26, which envelopes the whole group as was also shown by Williams and van Gorkom (Williams 1995).

Case study: three acute 241Am inhalation exposures with DTPA therapy.

PubMed

Carbaugh, Eugene H; Lynch, Timothy P; Cannon, Curt N; Lewis, Loren L

2010-10-01

Three workers incurred inhalation exposures to Am oxide as a result of waste sorting and compaction activities. The exposure magnitudes were not fully recognized until the following day when an in-vivo lung count identified a significant lung deposition of Am in a male worker, and DTPA chelation therapy was initiated. Two additional workers (one female and one male) were then identified as sufficiently exposed to also warrant therapy. In-vivo bioassay measurements were performed over the ensuing 6 mo to quantify the 241Am activity in the lungs, liver, and skeleton. Urine and fecal samples were collected and showed readily detectable 241Am. Clinical lab tests and medical evaluations all showed normal results. There were no significant adverse clinical health effects from the therapy. The estimated 241Am inhalation intakes for the three workers were 1,800 Bq, 630 Bq, and 150 Bq. Lung retention showed somewhat longer pulmonary clearance half-times than standard inhalation class W or absorption Type M assumptions. The three subjects underwent slightly different therapy regimens, with therapy effectiveness factors (defined as the ratio of the reference doses without therapy relative to the final assessed doses) of 4.5, 1.9, and 1.7, respectively.

BioMICADAS: Compact next generation AMS system for pharmaceutical science

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schulze-König, Tim; Dueker, Stephen R.; Giacomo, Jason; Suter, Martin; Vogel, John S.; Synal, Hans-Arno

2010-04-01

The next generation Accelerator Mass Spectrometer system specifically designed to address the needs of the growing pharmaceutical science market has passed validation testing. The system dubbed BioMICADAS is based on a previously developed compact carbon dating instrument, the MICADAS. Like its predecessor, it has an overall footprint of only 2.5 × 3 m 2 and uses a 200 kV high voltage platform for tandem based ion acceleration. The ion source can accommodate samples as graphite or gaseous CO 2. It is equipped with two independently operating vacuum locks, allowing continuous measurement sequence and providing a capacity of ˜20,000 samples per annum. A barcoded cathode tracking system allows data capture into Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) for Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) regulated work. It can be housed in research laboratories alongside other complementary bioanalytical equipment and operated by general laboratory staff as the system is designed to be robust and user-friendly. The system has undergone rigorous validation over the range from 0.1 to 100 Modern Carbon, including accuracy, linearity, robustness, and precision experiments over the course of 7 months. It has been shipped and installed at the site of our collaborative partner, Vitalea Science in Davis, California. The installation process took ˜2 weeks from boxes to beam. The feasibility of the system to determine the absolute specific activity of biogenic samples was also shown by using the method of isotopic dilution.

Tectonic insight based on anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility and compaction studies in the Sierras Australes thrust and fold belt (southwest Gondwana boundary, Argentina)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arzadún, Guadalupe; Tomezzoli, Renata N.; Cesaretti, Nora N.

2016-04-01

The Sierras Australes fold and thrust belt (Buenos Aires Province, Argentina) was in the southwestern Gondwanaland margin during the Paleozoic. The Tunas Formation (Permian) is exposed along the eastern part of it and continues eastward beneath the Claromecó Basin. Anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMS) and compaction studies are described and compared with previous paleomagnetic studies with the aim of determining direction and magnitude of the main stresses acting during the sedimentation of the Tunas Formation. The anisotropy ellipsoids are triaxial with oblate or prolate shapes, reflecting different stages of layer parallel shortening during the evolution of the basin. Kmax axes trend NW-SE, parallel to the fold axes, while Kmin move from a horizontal (base) to a vertical orientation at the top of the succession, showing a change from a tectonic to almost a sedimentary fabric. The magnitude of anisotropy and compaction degree decreases toward the top of the succession. The AMS results are consistent with the outcrop structural observations and the compaction and paleomagnetic data. Regional pattern indicates a compression from the SW along this part of Gondwana, with a migration of the orogenic front and attenuation toward the NE in the foreland basin during the Upper Paleozoic. This deformation, locally assigned to the San Rafael noncollisional orogenic phase, is the result of the latitudinal movements toward the Equator of Gondwana (southern plates) and Laurentia (northern plates) during the Permian. This movement is the result of a rearrangement of the microplates that collided with Gondwana during the Late Devonian, to configure Pangea during the Triassic.

KSC-97PC1537

NASA Image and Video Library

1997-10-10

At Launch Complex 40 on Cape Canaveral Air Station, workers are installing three Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators (RTGs) on the Cassini spacecraft. RTGs are lightweight, compact spacecraft electrical power systems that have flown successfully on 23 previous U.S. missions over the past 37 years. These generators produce power by converting heat into electrical energy; the heat is provided by the natural radioactive decay of plutonium-238 dioxide, a non-weapons-grade material. RTGs enable spacecraft to operate at significant distances from the Sun where solar power systems would not be feasible. Cassini will travel two billion miles to reach Saturn and another 1.1 billion miles while in orbit around Saturn. Cassini is undergoing final preparations for liftoff on a Titan IVB/Centaur launch vehicle, with the launch window opening at 4:55 a.m. EDT, Oct. 13

KSC-97PC1535

NASA Image and Video Library

1997-10-10

At Launch Complex 40 on Cape Canaveral Air Station, workers are installing three Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators (RTGs) on the Cassini spacecraft. RTGs are lightweight, compact spacecraft electrical power systems that have flown successfully on 23 previous U.S. missions over the past 37 years. These generators produce power by converting heat into electrical energy; the heat is provided by the natural radioactive decay of plutonium-238 dioxide, a non-weapons-grade material. RTGs enable spacecraft to operate at significant distances from the Sun where solar power systems would not be feasible. Cassini will travel two billion miles to reach Saturn and another 1.1 billion miles while in orbit around Saturn. Cassini is undergoing final preparations for liftoff on a Titan IVB/Centaur launch vehicle, with the launch window opening at 4:55 a.m. EDT, Oct. 13

KSC-97PC1533

NASA Image and Video Library

1997-10-10

At Launch Complex 40 on Cape Canaveral Air Station, workers are installing three Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators (RTGs) on the Cassini spacecraft. RTGs are lightweight, compact spacecraft electrical power systems that have flown successfully on 23 previous U.S. missions over the past 37 years. These generators produce power by converting heat into electrical energy; the heat is provided by the natural radioactive decay of plutonium-238 dioxide, a non-weapons-grade material. RTGs enable spacecraft to operate at significant distances from the Sun where solar power systems would not be feasible. Cassini will travel two billion miles to reach Saturn and another 1.1 billion miles while in orbit around Saturn. Cassini is undergoing final preparations for liftoff on a Titan IVB/Centaur launch vehicle, with the launch window opening at 4:55 a.m. EDT, Oct. 13

KSC-97PC1538

NASA Image and Video Library

1997-10-10

At Launch Complex 40 on Cape Canaveral Air Station, workers are installing three Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators (RTGs) on the Cassini spacecraft. RTGs are lightweight, compact spacecraft electrical power systems that have flown successfully on 23 previous U.S. missions over the past 37 years. These generators produce power by converting heat into electrical energy; the heat is provided by the natural radioactive decay of plutonium-238 dioxide, a non-weapons-grade material. RTGs enable spacecraft to operate at significant distances from the Sun where solar power systems would not be feasible. Cassini will travel two billion miles to reach Saturn and another 1.1 billion miles while in orbit around Saturn. Cassini is undergoing final preparations for liftoff on a Titan IVB/Centaur launch vehicle, with the launch window opening at 4:55 a.m. EDT, Oct. 13

Magnetic anisotropy of Silurian organic-rich shale rocks and calcareous concretions from Northern Poland

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Niezabitowska, Dominika; Szaniawski, Rafał

2017-04-01

The research has been performed on Wenlockian shales of Pelplin formation from the Pomerania region located in Northern Poland. These organic-rich marine shales were deposited on the western shelf of the Baltica paleo-continent and currently they constitute the cover of East European Platform. The studied shales lie almost completely flat without signs of tectonic deformations. Rock magnetic studies were carried out with the aim of recognizing ferro- and paramagnetic minerals in shales and thus fully understanding the origin of the magnetic anisotropy. The typical dark shales and spherical calcareous concretions from two boreholes were sampled. Based on deflection of shales beds bordered with a concretions, we deduce that such concretions were formed in the early stage of diagenesis, before the final compaction and lithification of surrounding shales. We obtained similar rockmagnetic results for both of rock types. The results of thermal variation of magnetic susceptibility and hysteresis loops show that the magnetic susceptibility is mainly controlled by paramagnetic minerals, due to domination of phyllosilicate minerals, with a smaller impact of ferromagnetic phase. The results of the hysteresis studies documented the domination of low coercivity ferromagnetic minerals, that is magnetite and pyrrhotite. The deposition alignment of flocculated phyllosilicates and further compaction determine distinct bedding parallel foliation of the AMS (Anisotropy of Magnetic Susceptibility) in the both drill cores. In one of the drill core the maximal AMS axes are almost randomly distributed in the bedding plane and show only a weak tendency for grouping. In the second drill core the magnetic lineation is better defined. In the case of concretions the bedding parallel magnetic foliation is also evident but it is much weaker than in shales. In turn, the magnetic lineation in the both drill cores is well developed and the maximal AMS axes are well grouped. In both of the cores the orientation of lineation from concretions complies with site mean lineation from shale rocks. To summarize, the results imply that the phyllosilicate minerals from shales are typically well aligned in the bedding plane by compaction processes. In the case of calcareous concretions the foliation is less developed due to their earlier cementation of flocculated phyllosicates in the calcareous matrix, which occurred before the end of sediments compaction. A good grouping of the maximal AMS axes within the early cemented concretions suggest that the magnetic lineation is rather sedimentary than tectonic in origin. We suggest that the magnetic lineation is probably related to the orientation of flocculated phyllosilicates due to transportation. This work has been funded by the Polish National Centre for Research and Development within the Blue Gas project (No BG2/SHALEMECH/14). Samples were provided by the PGNiG SA.

The spiral-compact galaxy pair AM 2208-251: Computer simulations versus observations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Klaric, Mario; Byrd, Gene G.

1990-01-01

The system AM2208-251 is a roughly edge-on spiral extending east-west with a smaller round compact E system about 60 arcsec east of the spiral nucleus along the major axis of the spiral. Bertola, Huchtmeier, and Zeilinger (1990) have presented optical spectroscopic as well as single dish 21 cm observations of this system. Their spectroscopic data show, via emission lines lambda lambda 3727-29A, a rising rotation curve near the nucleus. These spectroscopic observations may indicate a tidal interaction in the system. In order to learn more about such pairs, the authors simulated the interaction using the computer model developed by Miller (1976 a,b, 1978) and modified by the authors (Byrd 1986, 1987, 1988). To do the simulation they need an idea of the mutual orbits of the two galaxies. Their computer model is a two-dimensional polar N-body program. It consists of a self-gravitating disk of particles, within an inert axially symmetric stabilizing halo potential. The particles are distributed in a 24(radial) by 36(azimuthal) polar grid. Self consistent calculations can be done only within the grid area. The disk is modeled with a finite Mestel disk, where all the particles initially move in circular orbits with constant tangential velocities (Mestel 1963), resulting in a flat rotation curve. The gas particles in the spiral's disk, which make up 30 percent of its mass, collide in the following manner. The number of particles in each bin of the polar grid is counted every time step. If it is greater than a given critical density, all the particles in the bin collide, obtaining in the result the same velocities, equal to the average for the bin. This process produces clumps of gas particles-the star formation sites. The authors suppress the collision in the inner part of the disk (within the circle r = 6) to represent the hole seen in the gas in the nuclear bulge of spirals. They thus avoid spurious effects due to collisions in that region. They also varied the size of the collisional bins, which did not affect their conclusions.

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

Carbaugh, Eugene H.; Lynch, Timothy P.; Cannon, Curt

Three workers incurred inhalation exposures to 241Am oxide as a result of waste sorting and compaction activities. The magnitudes of the exposures were not fully recognized until the following day when an in vivo chest count identified a significant lung deposition of 241Am in a male worker, and DTPA chelation therapy was initiated. Two additional workers (one female and one male) were then identified as sufficiently exposed to also warrant therapy. In vivo bioassay measurements were performed over the ensuing 6 months to quantify the 241Am activity in the lungs, liver, and skeleton. Urine and fecal samples were collected andmore » showed readily detectable 241Am. Clinical lab tests and medical evaluations all showed normal results. There were no significant adverse clinical health effects from the therapy. The estimated 241Am inhalation intakes for the three workers were 1800 Bq, 630 Bq, and 150 Bq. Lung retention showed somewhat longer pulmonary clearance half-times than standard inhalation class W or absorption Type M assumptions. The three underwent slightly different therapy regimes, with therapy effectiveness factors (defined as the ratio of the reference doses without therapy relative to the final assessed doses) of 4.65, 1.93, and 1.67, respectively.« less

KSC-97PC1534

NASA Image and Video Library

1997-10-10

At Launch Complex 40 on Cape Canaveral Air Station, one of three Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators (RTGs) is being installed on the Cassini spacecraft. RTGs are lightweight, compact spacecraft electrical power systems that have flown successfully on 23 previous U.S. missions over the past 37 years. These generators produce power by converting heat into electrical energy; the heat is provided by the natural radioactive decay of plutonium-238 dioxide, a non-weapons-grade material. RTGs enable spacecraft to operate at significant distances from the Sun where solar power systems would not be feasible. Cassini will travel two billion miles to reach Saturn and another 1.1 billion miles while in orbit around Saturn. Cassini is undergoing final preparations for liftoff on a Titan IVB/Centaur launch vehicle, with the launch window opening at 4:55 a.m. EDT, Oct. 13

KSC-97PC1532

NASA Image and Video Library

1997-10-10

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Complex 40 on Cape Canaveral Air Station, workers are installing three Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators (RTGs) on the Cassini spacecraft. RTGs are lightweight, compact spacecraft electrical power systems that have flown successfully on 23 previous U.S. missions over the past 37 years. These generators produce power by converting heat into electrical energy; the heat is provided by the natural radioactive decay of plutonium-238 dioxide, a non-weapons-grade material. RTGs enable spacecraft to operate at significant distances from the Sun where solar power systems would not be feasible. Cassini will travel two billion miles to reach Saturn and another 1.1 billion miles while in orbit around Saturn. Cassini is undergoing final preparations for liftoff on a Titan IVB/Centaur launch vehicle, with the launch window opening at 4:55 a.m. EDT, Oct. 13

KSC-97PC1536

NASA Image and Video Library

1997-10-10

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Complex 40 on Cape Canaveral Air Station, workers are installing three Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators (RTGs) on the Cassini spacecraft. RTGs are lightweight, compact spacecraft electrical power systems that have flown successfully on 23 previous U.S. missions over the past 37 years. These generators produce power by converting heat into electrical energy; the heat is provided by the natural radioactive decay of plutonium-238 dioxide, a non-weapons-grade material. RTGs enable spacecraft to operate at significant distances from the Sun where solar power systems would not be feasible. Cassini will travel two billion miles to reach Saturn and another 1.1 billion miles while in orbit around Saturn. Cassini is undergoing final preparations for liftoff on a Titan IVB/Centaur launch vehicle, with the launch window opening at 4:55 a.m. EDT, Oct. 13

Workers install the RTGs on the Cassini spacecraft at LC 40, CCAS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1997-01-01

At Launch Complex 40 on Cape Canaveral Air Station, workers are installing three Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators (RTGs) on the Cassini spacecraft. RTGs are lightweight, compact spacecraft electrical power systems that have flown successfully on 23 previous U.S. missions over the past 37 years. These generators produce power by converting heat into electrical energy; the heat is provided by the natural radioactive decay of plutonium-238 dioxide, a non-weapons-grade material. RTGs enable spacecraft to operate at significant distances from the Sun where solar power systems would not be feasible. Cassini will travel two billion miles to reach Saturn and another 1.1 billion miles while in orbit around Saturn. Cassini is undergoing final preparations for liftoff on a Titan IVB/Centaur launch vehicle, with the launch window opening at 4:55 a.m. EDT, Oct. 13.

Measurement of the Am 242 m neutron-induced reaction cross sections

DOE PAGES

Buckner, M. Q.; Wu, C. Y.; Henderson, R. A.; ...

2017-02-17

The neutron-induced reaction cross sections of 242mAm were measured at the Los Alamos Neutron Science Center using the Detector for Advanced Neutron-Capture Experiments array along with a compact parallel-plate avalanche counter for fission-fragment detection. A new neutron-capture cross section was determined, and the absolute scale was set according to a concurrent measurement of the well-known 242mAm(n,f) cross section. The (n,γ) cross section was measured from thermal energy to an incident energy of 1 eV at which point the data quality was limited by the reaction yield in the laboratory. Our new 242mAm fission cross section was normalized to ENDF/B-VII.1 tomore » set the absolute scale, and it agreed well with the (n,f) cross section from thermal energy to 1 keV. Lastly, the average absolute capture-to-fission ratio was determined from thermal energy to E n = 0.1 eV, and it was found to be 26(4)% as opposed to the ratio of 19% from the ENDF/B-VII.1 evaluation.« less

Towards the definition of AMS facies in the deposits of pyroclastic density currents

USGS Publications Warehouse

Ort, M.H.; Newkirk, T.T.; Vilas, J.F.; Vazquez, J.A.; Ort, M.H.; Porreca, Massimiliano; Geissman, J.W.

2014-01-01

Anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMS) provides a statistically robust technique to characterize the fabrics of deposits of pyroclastic density currents (PDCs). AMS fabrics in two types of pyroclastic deposits (small-volume phreatomagmatic currents in the Hopi Buttes volcanic field, Arizona, USA, and large-volume caldera-forming currents, Caviahue Caldera, Neuquén, Argentina) show similar patterns. Near the vent and in areas of high topographical roughness, AMS depositional fabrics are poorly grouped, with weak lineations and foliations. In a densely welded proximal ignimbrite, this fabric is overprinted by a foliation formed as the rock compacted and deformed. Medial deposits have moderate–strong AMS lineations and foliations. The most distal deposits have strong foliations but weak lineations. Based on these facies and existing models for pyroclastic density currents, deposition in the medial areas occurs from the strongly sheared, high-particle-concentration base of a density-stratified current. In proximal areas and where topography mixes this denser base upwards into the current, deposition occurs rapidly from a current with little uniformity to the shear, in which particles fall and collide in a chaotic fashion. Distal deposits are emplaced by a slowing or stalled current so that the dominant particle motion is vertical, leading to weak lineation and strong foliation.

Controlling Hexavalent Americium – A Centerpiece to a Compact Nuclear Fuel Cycle

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

Shafer /Braley, Jenifer; Nash, Kenneth L; Lumetta, Gregg

2014-10-01

Closing the nuclear fuel cycle could be simplified by recovering the actinides U through Am as a group. This could be achieved by converting U, Np, Pu and Am to the hexavalent state. Uranium, Np and Pu are readily oxidized to the hexavalent state. Generation of hexavalent Am in acidic solutions is more difficult, as the standard reduction potential of the Am(VI) /Am(III) couple (+1.68 V in 1 M HClO4) is well outside of the electrochemical stability window of water. While the oxidation and separation of Am has been demonstrated under laboratory conditions, several issues could plague scale up andmore » implementation of this separation with used fuel. Two primary concerns are considered. The first issue concerns the stability of the oxidized Am. The second involves the undesirable co-extraction of tetravalent f-elements with the hexavalent actinides. To address the first concern regarding Am redox instability, Am reduction will be monitored under a variety of different conditions to establish the means of improving the stability of Am(VI) in the organic phase. Identifying the components contributing most significantly to its reduction will allow thoughtful modification of the process. To address the second concern, we propose to apply branched chain extractants to separate hexavalent actinides from tetravalent f-elements. Both branched monoamide and organophosphorus extractants have demonstrated significant selectivity for UO22+ versus Th4+, with separation factors generally on the order of 100. The efforts of this two-pronged research program should represent a significant step forward in the development of aqueous separations approaches designed to recover the U-Am actinides based on the availability of the hexavalent oxidation state. For the purposes of this proposal, separations based on this approach will be called SAn(VI) separations, indicating the Separation of An(VI).« less

Effect of breed body size and the muscular hypertrophy gene in the production and carcass traits of concentrate-finished yearling bulls.

PubMed

Martínez, A; Aldai, N; Celaya, R; Osoro, K

2010-04-01

To examine the extent of the effect of muscular hypertrophy character in beef of northern-Spanish breeds, animal performance and carcass characteristics of 152 finishing steers from 5 genotypes were studied: 32 yearling bulls from a rustic Asturiana de la Montaña (AM) breed, 96 yearling bulls from Asturiana de los Valles (AV) breed, divided in 3 groups depending on the presence of the gene responsible for double-muscling (i.e., 32 AV mh/mh, 32 AV mh/+, 32 AV +/+), and 24 yearling bulls from AM x AV cross were used. Each genotype was composed of 8 animals per year (4 animals per pen) for 4 yr, except for the AM x AV genotype, which was only evaluated in the last 3 yr of the experiment. All animals were fed indoors with concentrate meal and barley straw ad libitum. Average daily gains in AV animals (1.41 kg/d) were greater (P < 0.01) than in AM (1.12 kg/d), whereas AM x AV were intermediate (1.29 kg/d) to these. No significant differences (P = 0.604) in ADG were found among the 3 AV genotypes. Longer fattening periods (P < 0.001) were taken for AM animals to reach acceptable BW at slaughter. Double-muscled animals (AV mh/mh) were found to have the best feed efficiencies when expressed as G:F (P < 0.001). However, residual feed intake calculated on a daily basis showed a greater efficiency in AV mh/mh and AM than in other genotypes. Carcasses from double-muscled animals had greater BW, yield, conformation and compactness index, and less fat cover than the other genotypes (P < 0.001). Carcasses from AM breed were the lightest and had the worst conformation, whereas those from AM x AV generally presented intermediate characteristics between AV and AM. Double-muscled animals had the greatest LM weight and area. The sixth-rib dissection revealed a greater percentage of muscle (84.6%) and decreased percentages of subcutaneous fat (1.1%), intermuscular fat (4.7%), bone (8.5%), and other tissues (1.2%) in AV mh/mh compared with other genotypes. Water-holding capacity was greatest in AM and least in AV mh/mh. In conclusion, double-muscled AV bulls would provide the greatest economic returns at intensive feeding systems because of their greater efficiency, reduced feeding costs, greater carcass weight and conformation, and greater lean yields, though some LM characteristics (reduced fat content and water-holding capacity) could negatively affect the sensory attributes of the meat compared with other genotypes with greater fatness.

Attenuation of low-frequency underwater sound using an array of air-filled balloons and comparison to effective medium theory.

PubMed

Lee, Kevin M; Wilson, Preston S; Wochner, Mark S

2017-12-01

The ultimate goal of this work is to accurately predict the attenuation through a collection of large (on the order of 10-cm-radius) tethered encapsulated bubbles used in underwater noise abatement systems. Measurements of underwater sound attenuation were performed during a set of lake experiments, where a low-frequency compact electromechanical sound source was surrounded by different arrays of encapsulated bubbles with various individual bubbles sizes and void fractions. The measurements were compared with an existing predictive model [Church, J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 97, 1510-1521 (1995)] of the dispersion relation for linear propagation in liquid containing encapsulated bubbles. Although the model was originally intended to describe ultrasound contrast agents, it is evaluated here for large bubbles, and hence low frequencies, as a design tool for future underwater noise abatement systems, and there is good quantitative agreement between the observations and the model.

Measurement of neutron-induced reactions on 242mAm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Buckner, M. Q.; Wu, C.-Y.; Henderson, R. A.; Bucher, B.; Chyzh, A.; Bredeweg, T. A.; Baramsai, B.; Couture, A.; Jandel, M.; Mosby, S.; Ullmann, J. L.; Dance Collaboration

2016-09-01

Neutron-induced reaction cross sections of 242mAm were measured at the Los Alamos Neutron Science Center using the Detector for Advanced Neutron-Capture Experiments array along with a compact parallel-plate avalanche counter for fission-fragment detection. A new neutron-capture cross section was determined relative to a simultaneous measurement of the well-known 242mAm(n,f) cross section. The (n, γ) cross section was measured from thermal to an incident energy of 1 eV. Our new 242mAm fission cross section was normalized to ENDF/B-VII.1 and agreed well with the (n,f) cross section reported in the literature from thermal energy to 1 keV. The capture-to-fission ratio was determined from thermal energy to En = 0.1 eV, and it was found to be (n, γ)/(n,f) = 26(4)% compared to 19% from ENDF/B-VII.1. Our latest results will be reported. US Department of Energy by Lawrence Livermore National Security, LLC Contract DE-AC52-07NA27344 and Los Alamos National Security, LLC Contract DE-AC52-06NA25396 and U.S. DOE/NNSA Office of Defense Nuclear Nonproliferation Research and Development.

U.S. Navy-ASEE Summer Faculty Research Program. Abstracts 1987 - 1991

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-01-01

the WDrost-Hansen (thermal anomaly ) temperatures"); Drost-Hansen, 1969. 3. The rate of compaction, in the earlystages of this process, is also strongly...in a non- magnetic environment for determining underwater acoustic waves. The AM and homodyne probes used a cooled photomultiple take as the detector...of magnetic data and the Gauss-Schmidt coefficients for multi-years remains to be considered. A supercomputer is preferable for the stochastic

Challenging developments in three decades of accelerator mass spectrometry at ETH: from large particle accelerators to table size instruments.

PubMed

Suter, Martin

2010-01-01

Accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) was invented for the detection of radiocarbon at natural isotopic concentrations (10(-12) to 10(-15)) more than 30 years ago. Meanwhile this method has also been applied for the analysis of many other long-lived radioisotopes, which are found at very low concentrations. The first investigations were made at large tandem accelerators originally built for nuclear physics research and operating at voltages of 6-12 MV. Today dedicated instruments are mostly used for AMS, which are optimized for associated applications. In the past 15 years, a new generation of much smaller instruments has been developed. For many years it was believed that accelerators with voltages of 2 MV or higher are needed to eliminate the molecular interferences. At these energies the ions are predominantly stripped to charge state 3+, thereby removing the binding electrons of the molecules. In contrast, the new compact facilities use 1+ or 2+ ions. In this case the molecular destruction process is based on molecule-atom collisions in the gas cell. The cross sections for this destruction are sufficiently large that the intensity of molecular components such as (12)CH(2) and (13)CH can be reduced by 10 orders of magnitude. These new facilities can be built much smaller due to the lower energies. Universal instruments providing analysis for many isotopes over the whole range of periodic table have a space requirement of about 4 x 6 m(2); dedicated radiocarbon facilities based on a 200 kV accelerator have a footprint of about 2.5 x 3 m(2). This smallest category of instruments use special technologies: The high voltage terminal with the gas stripper canal is vacuum insulated and the gas is pumped to ground potential through a ceramic pipe. A conventional 200 kV power supply provides the terminal voltage from outside. A review of this new generation of compact AMS facilities is given. Design considerations and performance of these new instruments will be presented. With these developments, new AMS instruments are not much larger than conventional mass spectrometers, allowing a significant reduction in cost.

Paleomagnetic and Anisotropy of Magnetic Susceptibility (AMS) Documentation of the Formation of Large-Scale Rheomorphic Structures in the 2.06 Ma Huckleberry Ridge Tuff, Eastern Idaho

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Geissman, J. W.; Holm, D.; Harlan, S. S.

2006-12-01

In the Teton River Valley, east of Rexburg, Idaho, the ca. 2.06 Ma Huckleberry Ridge Tuff is about 130 m thick, exceedingly well-exposed, and displays large-scale (100-150 m+ amplitude) rheomorphic folds, with eutaxitic fabrics that are parallel to inferred primary internal zonation (e.g. boundary between basal vitrophyre and overlying devitrified part of the pyroclastic deposit) as well as the basal contact with older deposits defining the fold geometries. One 150 m amplitude fold , is well-exposed on the north side of the valley about 2.5 km east of Teton Dam, has a NW trending fold axis and has a southwest limb that is overturned by about 45o. Samples were collected from 16 sites in this fold, on both limbs and the hinge area, to test the hypothesis that folding took place above maximum TRM blocking temperatures (about 580C). Progressive AF and thermal demagnetization both yield characteristic magnetizations of southwest to south-southwest declination and shallow inclination removed over a range of peak fields (typically between 20 and 80 mT) and laboratory unblocking temperatures (typically between 350 and 580C). The preliminary determination of an in situ mean based on the 16 sites is about D = 215°, I = -5°, a95= 5°, N = 16 site means). The direction of this ChRM is statistically indistinguishable from that reported by previous studies of the tuff (e.g. Reynolds, 1977, JGR; Byrd et al., 1994, JGR). The trend of the fold axis is orthogonal to this declination; the paleomagnetic fold test applied to these data is negative, with k values continuously decreasing upon unfolding, thus indicating that the entire structure in the tuff formed after the well-developed compaction fabric was acquired, at a temperature above maximum blocking temperatures of the ChRM. Post-compaction, high temperature deformation is consistent with field evidence indicating plastic secondary deformation of much of the tuff prior to devitrification. Rapid strain rates probably contributed to the formation of brittle features in the uppermost parts of the tuff (joints and fissures). AMS fabrics, at the site level, are typically very well-defined, with AMS foliations roughly parallel to compaction fabric, with K1 (maximum principal susceptibility) axes typically directed in a southwest-northeast orientation.

Variations in AmLi source spectra and their estimation utilizing the 5 Ring Multiplicity Counter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weinmann-Smith, R.; Beddingfield, D. H.; Enqvist, A.; Swinhoe, M. T.

2017-06-01

Active-mode assay systems are widely used for the safeguards of uranium items to verify compliance with the Non-Proliferation Treaty. Systems such as the Active-Well Coincidence Counter (AWCC) and the Uranium Neutron Coincidence Collar (UNCL) use americium-lithium (AmLi) neutron sources to induce fissions which are measured to determine the sample mass. These systems have historically relied on calibrations derived from well-defined standards. Recently, restricted access to standards or more difficult measurements have resulted in a reliance on modeling and simulation for the calibration of systems, which introduces potential simulation biases. The AmLi source energy spectra commonly used in the safeguards community do not accurately represent measurement results and the spectrum uncertainty can represent a large contribution to the total modeling uncertainty in active-mode systems. The 5-Ring Multiplicity Counter (5RMC) has been used to measure 17 AmLi sources. The measurements showed a significant spectral variation between different sources. Utilization of a spectrum that is specific to an individual source or a series of sources will give improved results over historical general spectra when modeling AmLi sources. Candidate AmLi neutron spectra were calculated in MCNP and SOURCES4C for a range of physical AmLi characteristics. The measurement and simulation data were used to fit reliable and accurate AmLi spectra for use in the simulation of active-mode systems. Spectra were created for average Gammatron C, Gammatron N, and MRC series sources, and for individual sources. The systematic uncertainty introduced by physical aspects of the AmLi source were characterized through simulations. The accuracy of spectra from the literature was compared.

A Simulation Testbed for Airborne Merging and Spacing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Santos, Michel; Manikonda, Vikram; Feinberg, Art; Lohr, Gary

2008-01-01

The key innovation in this effort is the development of a simulation testbed for airborne merging and spacing (AM&S). We focus on concepts related to airports with Super Dense Operations where new airport runway configurations (e.g. parallel runways), sequencing, merging, and spacing are some of the concepts considered. We focus on modeling and simulating a complementary airborne and ground system for AM&S to increase efficiency and capacity of these high density terminal areas. From a ground systems perspective, a scheduling decision support tool generates arrival sequences and spacing requirements that are fed to the AM&S system operating on the flight deck. We enhanced NASA's Airspace Concept Evaluation Systems (ACES) software to model and simulate AM&S concepts and algorithms.

Multiwavelength observations of Active Galactic Nuclei from the radio to the hard X-rays

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Beuchert, Tobias

2017-07-01

Active Galaxies form a peculiar type of galaxies. Their cores, the so-called "Active Galactic Nuclei" (AGN), are the most persistent luminous objects in the universe. Accretion of several solar masses per year onto black holes of Millions to Billions of solar masses drive the immense energy output of these systems, which can exceed that of the entire galaxy. The compact energy source, however, only measures about one over a Billion times that of the entire galaxy. Subject of my thesis are observations of the two main channels of energy release of selected AGN systems, both of which are encompassed by profound and yet unanswered questions. These channels are on the one hand the pronounced X-ray emission of the hot and compact accreting environment in close vicinity of the black hole, and on the other hand the radio synchrotron emission of magnetically collimated jets that are fed by portions of the accreted matter. These jets also function as effective accelerators and drive the injected matter deep into the intergalactic medium. As the circumnuclear environment of AGN is too compact to be spatially resolved in the X-rays, I show how X-ray spectroscopy can be used to: (1) understand the effects of strong gravity to trace the geometry and physics of the X-ray source and (2) more consistently quantify matter that surrounds and dynamically absorbs our direct line of sight towards the X-ray source. Second, I unveil the valuable information contained in the polarized radio light being emitted from magnetized jet outflows. In contrast to the X-ray emitting region, I am able to spatially resolve the inner parts of the jet of a prominent galaxy with help of the Very Long Baseline Array, a large network of radio telescopes. The resulting polarization maps turn out to be exceptionally promising in answering fundamental questions related to jet physics.

New Worlds in Astroparticle Physics: Proceedings of the Fifth International Workshop

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mourão, Ana M.; Pimenta, Mário; Potting, Robertus; Sá, Paulo M.

Preface -- Group photo -- pt. 1. Overviews in astroparticle physics. An overview of the status of work on ultra high energy cosmic rays / A. A. Watson. Gravitational waves from compact sources / K. D. Kokkotas and N. Stergioulas. Neutrino physics and astrophysics / E. Fernandez. Black holes and fundamental physics / J. P. S. Lemos -- pt. 2. Contributions. Cosmic ray physics. Phenomenology of cosmic ray air showers / M. T. Dova. First results from the MAGIC experiment / A. de Angelis. How to select UHECR in EUSO - the trigger system / P. Assis. Pressure and temperature dependence of the primary scintillation in air / M. Fraga ... [et al.]. Overview of the GLAST physics / N. Giglietto ... [et al.]. Velocity and charge reconstruction with the AMS/RICH detector / L. Arruda ... [et al.]. Isotope separation with the RICH detector of the AMS experiment / L. Arruda ... [et al.]. Gravitational waves and compact sources. Gravitational radiation from 3D collapse to rotating black holes / L. Baiotti ... [et al.]. The role of differential rotation in the evolution of the r-mode instability / P. M. Sá and B. Tomé. Analytical r-mode solution with gravitational radiation reaction force / Ó. J. C. Dias and P. M. Sá. Space radiation: effects and monitoring. Particles from the sun / D. Maia. Simulations of space radiation monitors / B. Tomé. GEANT4 detector simulations: radiation interaction simulations for the high-energy astrophysics experiments EUSO and AMS / P. Goncalves. Software for radiological risk assessment in space missions / A. Trindade, P. Rodrigues. Neutrino physics. Results from K2K / S. Andringa. SNO: salt phase results and NCD phase status / J. Maneira. The ICARUS experiment / S. Navas-Concha. Cosmological parameters measurements. High redshift supernova surveys / S. Fabbro. SNFactory: nearby supernova factory / P. Antilogus. A polarized galactic emission mapping experiment at 5-10 GHz / D. Barbosa ... [et al.]. Galaxy clusters as probes of dark energy / P. T. P. Viana. Black hole physics. Acoustic black holes / V. Cardoso. Superradiant instabilities in black hole systems / Á. J. C. Dias ... [et al.]. Microscopic black hole detection in UHECR: the double bang signature / M. Paulos. Generalized uncertainty principle and holography / F. Scardiali and R. Casadio. Testing covariant entropy bounds / S. Gao and J. P. S. Lemos. Dark matter and dark energy. Dark energy - dark matter unification: generalized Chaplygin gas model / O. Bertolami. Cosmology and spacetime symmetries / R. Lehnert. Scalar field models: from the pioneer anomaly to astrophysical constraints / J. Páramos. Braneworlds, conformal fields and dark energy / R. Neves. Sun and stars as cosmological tools: probing supersymmetric dark matter / I. Lopes. ZEPLIN III: xenon detector for WIMP searches / H. Araújo. Dark matter detectability with Čerenkov telescopes -- List of participants.

Effectiveness of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy using a 660 nm laser and methyline blue dye for inactivating Staphylococcus aureus biofilms in compact and cancellous bones: An in vitro study.

PubMed

Rosa, Luciano Pereira; Silva, Francine Cristina da; Nader, Sumaia Alves; Meira, Giselle Andrade; Viana, Magda Souza

2015-06-01

New therapeutic modalities such as antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (APDT) has been investigated in order to be a valid alternative to the treatment of infections caused by different microorganisms. This work evaluated the in vitro effectiveness of Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy (APDT) using 660 nm laser combined with methylene blue dye to inactivate Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923) biofilms in compact and cancellous bones specimens. Eighty specimens of compact bone and 80 specimens of cancellous bone were contaminated with a standard suspension of S. aureus and incubated for 14 days at 37°C to induce the formation of biofilms. The specimens were then divided into groups (n = 10) according to the established treatment: PS-L- (control--no treatment), PS+L- (only AM for 5 min in the dark), PS-L+90 (only laser irradiation for 90 s), PS-L+180 (only laser irradiation for 180 s), PS-L+300 (only laser irradiation for 300 s), APDT90 (APDT for 90 s), APDT180 (APDT for 180 s), and APDT300 (APDT for 300 s). The findings were statistically analyzed by ANOVA 5%. All of the experimental treatments showed a significant reduction (log 10 CFU/mL) of S. aureus biofilms in compact and cancellous bones specimens compared with the control group, and the APDT group was the most effective. Compact specimens treated with APDT showed the greatest reduction in biofilms compared with cancellous specimens, regardless of length of treatment. APDT with methylene blue dye and a 660 nm laser proved to be effective in inactivating S. aureus biofilms formed in compact and cancellous bone. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

47 CFR 73.45 - AM antenna systems.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 4 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false AM antenna systems. 73.45 Section 73.45... Broadcast Stations § 73.45 AM antenna systems. (a) All applicants for new, additional, or different AM... existing station must specify an antenna system, the efficiency of which complies with the requirements for...

47 CFR 73.45 - AM antenna systems.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 4 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false AM antenna systems. 73.45 Section 73.45... Broadcast Stations § 73.45 AM antenna systems. (a) All applicants for new, additional, or different AM... existing station must specify an antenna system, the efficiency of which complies with the requirements for...

47 CFR 73.45 - AM antenna systems.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 4 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false AM antenna systems. 73.45 Section 73.45... Broadcast Stations § 73.45 AM antenna systems. (a) All applicants for new, additional, or different AM... existing station must specify an antenna system, the efficiency of which complies with the requirements for...

47 CFR 73.45 - AM antenna systems.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 4 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false AM antenna systems. 73.45 Section 73.45... Broadcast Stations § 73.45 AM antenna systems. (a) All applicants for new, additional, or different AM... existing station must specify an antenna system, the efficiency of which complies with the requirements for...

47 CFR 73.45 - AM antenna systems.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false AM antenna systems. 73.45 Section 73.45... Broadcast Stations § 73.45 AM antenna systems. (a) All applicants for new, additional, or different AM... existing station must specify an antenna system, the efficiency of which complies with the requirements for...

The Sonju Lake layered intrusion, northeast Minnesota: Internal structure and emplacement history inferred from magnetic fabrics

USGS Publications Warehouse

Maes, S.M.; Tikoff, B.; Ferre, E.C.; Brown, P.E.; Miller, J.D.

2007-01-01

The Sonju Lake intrusion (SLI), in northeastern Minnesota, is a layered mafic complex of Keweenawan age (1096.1 ?? 0.8 Ma) related to the Midcontinent rift. The cumulate paragenesis of the intrusion is recognized as broadly similar to the Skaergaard intrusion, a classic example of closed-system differentiation of a tholeiitic mafic magma. The SLI represents nearly closed-system differentiation through bottom-up fractional crystallization. Geochemical studies have identified the presence of a stratabound, 50-100 m thick zone anomalously enriched in Au + PGE. Similar to the PGE reefs of the Skaergaard intrusion, this PGE-enriched zone is hosted within oxide gabbro cumulates, about two-third of the way up from the base of the intrusion. We present a petrofabric study using the anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMS) to investigate the emplacement and flow patterns within the Sonju Lake intrusion. Petrographic and electron microprobe studies, combined with AMS and hysteresis measurements indicate the primary source of the magnetic signal is pseudo-single domain (PSD) magnetite or titanomagnetite. Low field AMS was measured at 32 sites within the Sonju Lake intrusion, which provided information about primary igneous fabrics. The magnetic fabrics in the layered series of the Sonju Lake intrusion are consistent with sub-horizontal to inclined emplacement of the intrusion and show evidence that the cumulate layers were deposited in a dynamic environment. Well-aligned magnetic lineations, consistently plunging shallowly toward the southwest, indicate the source of the magma is a vertical sill-like feeder, presumably located beneath the Finland granite. The Finland granite acted as a density trap for the Sonju Lake magmas, forcing lateral flow of magma to the northeast. The strongly oblate magnetic shape fabrics indicate the shallowly dipping planar fabrics were enhanced by compaction of the crystal mush. ?? 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Progress on multi-nuclide AMS of JAEA-AMS-TONO

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saito-Kokubu, Yoko; Matsubara, Akihiro; Miyake, Masayasu; Nishizawa, Akimitsu; Ohwaki, Yoshio; Nishio, Tomohiro; Sanada, Katsuki; Hanaki, Tatsumi

2015-10-01

The JAEA-AMS-TONO (Japan Atomic Energy Agency's Accelerator Mass Spectrometer established at the Tono Geoscience Center) facility has been used for the dating of geological samples. The AMS system is versatile, based on a 5 MV tandem Pelletron-type accelerator. Since its establishment in 1997, the AMS system has been used for measurement of carbon-14 (14C) mainly for 14C dating studies in neotectonics and hydrogeology, in support of JAEA's research on geosphere stability applicable to the long-term isolation of high-level radioactive waste. Results of the measurement of 14C in soils and plants has been applied to the dating of fault activity and volcanism. Development of beryllium-10 (10Be) and aluminum-26 (26Al) AMS systems are now underway to enhance the capability of the multi-nuclide AMS in studies of dating by cosmogenic nuclides. The 10Be-AMS system has already been used for routine measurements in applied studies and improvements of the measurement technique have been made. Now we plan to fine tune the system and perform test measurements to develop the 26Al-AMS system.

Comparative Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Three Different Automated Medication Systems Implemented in a Danish Hospital Setting.

PubMed

Risør, Bettina Wulff; Lisby, Marianne; Sørensen, Jan

2018-02-01

Automated medication systems have been found to reduce errors in the medication process, but little is known about the cost-effectiveness of such systems. The objective of this study was to perform a model-based indirect cost-effectiveness comparison of three different, real-world automated medication systems compared with current standard practice. The considered automated medication systems were a patient-specific automated medication system (psAMS), a non-patient-specific automated medication system (npsAMS), and a complex automated medication system (cAMS). The economic evaluation used original effect and cost data from prospective, controlled, before-and-after studies of medication systems implemented at a Danish hematological ward and an acute medical unit. Effectiveness was described as the proportion of clinical and procedural error opportunities that were associated with one or more errors. An error was defined as a deviation from the electronic prescription, from standard hospital policy, or from written procedures. The cost assessment was based on 6-month standardization of observed cost data. The model-based comparative cost-effectiveness analyses were conducted with system-specific assumptions of the effect size and costs in scenarios with consumptions of 15,000, 30,000, and 45,000 doses per 6-month period. With 30,000 doses the cost-effectiveness model showed that the cost-effectiveness ratio expressed as the cost per avoided clinical error was €24 for the psAMS, €26 for the npsAMS, and €386 for the cAMS. Comparison of the cost-effectiveness of the three systems in relation to different valuations of an avoided error showed that the psAMS was the most cost-effective system regardless of error type or valuation. The model-based indirect comparison against the conventional practice showed that psAMS and npsAMS were more cost-effective than the cAMS alternative, and that psAMS was more cost-effective than npsAMS.

Series solution for two-frequency Bragg interaction using the Korpel-Poon multiple-scattering model

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

Appel, R.K.; Somekh, M.G.

1993-03-01

The two-frequency acousto-optic interaction is analytically solved in the Bragg regime by use of a multiple-scattering model that was previously described by Korpel and Poon [J. Opt. Soc. Am. 70, 817-820 (1980)]. The method uses Feynman diagrams to conceptualize the problem and demonstrates the applicability of such a method to model a relatively complex system. The solution presented is compared with that derived by Hecht [IEEE Trans. Sonics Ultrason. SU-24, 7-18 (1977)], who used a coupled-mode approach. The derivation of the authors' solution is relatively simple and leads to a formulation that appears to be more compact. Numerical evaluations havemore » demonstrated their equivalence. The authors present results that illustrate the dependence of the diffracted beam intensities on the amplitude of the two acoustic waves. 21 refs., 8 figs.« less

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

Savukov, Igor Mykhaylovich; Boshier, Malcolm Geoffrey

Atomic magnetometers (AM) are finding many applications in biomagnetism, national security, industry, and science. Fiber-coupled (FC) designs promise to make them compact and flexible for operation. Most FC designs are based on a single-beam configuration or electrical heating. Here, we demonstrate a two-beam FC AM with laser heating that has 5 fT/Hz 1/2 sensitivity at low frequency (50 Hz), which is higher than that of other fiber-coupled magnetometers and can be improved to the sub-femtotesla level. Here, this magnetometer is widely tunable from DC to very high frequencies (as high as 100 MHz; the only issue might be the applicationmore » of a suitable uniform and stable bias field) with a sensitivity under 10 fT/Hz 1/2 and can be used for magneto-encephalography (MEG), magneto-cardiography (MCG), underground communication, ultra-low MRI/NMR, NQR detection, and other applications.« less

A high-sensitivity tunable two-beam fiber-coupled high-density magnetometer with laser heating

DOE PAGES

Savukov, Igor Mykhaylovich; Boshier, Malcolm Geoffrey

2016-10-13

Atomic magnetometers (AM) are finding many applications in biomagnetism, national security, industry, and science. Fiber-coupled (FC) designs promise to make them compact and flexible for operation. Most FC designs are based on a single-beam configuration or electrical heating. Here, we demonstrate a two-beam FC AM with laser heating that has 5 fT/Hz 1/2 sensitivity at low frequency (50 Hz), which is higher than that of other fiber-coupled magnetometers and can be improved to the sub-femtotesla level. Here, this magnetometer is widely tunable from DC to very high frequencies (as high as 100 MHz; the only issue might be the applicationmore » of a suitable uniform and stable bias field) with a sensitivity under 10 fT/Hz 1/2 and can be used for magneto-encephalography (MEG), magneto-cardiography (MCG), underground communication, ultra-low MRI/NMR, NQR detection, and other applications.« less

A High-Sensitivity Tunable Two-Beam Fiber-Coupled High-Density Magnetometer with Laser Heating

PubMed Central

Savukov, Igor; Boshier, Malcolm G.

2016-01-01

Atomic magnetometers (AM) are finding many applications in biomagnetism, national security, industry, and science. Fiber-coupled (FC) designs promise to make them compact and flexible for operation. Most FC designs are based on a single-beam configuration or electrical heating. Here, we demonstrate a two-beam FC AM with laser heating that has 5 fT/Hz1/2 sensitivity at low frequency (50 Hz), which is higher than that of other fiber-coupled magnetometers and can be improved to the sub-femtotesla level. This magnetometer is widely tunable from DC to very high frequencies (as high as 100 MHz; the only issue might be the application of a suitable uniform and stable bias field) with a sensitivity under 10 fT/Hz1/2 and can be used for magneto-encephalography (MEG), magneto-cardiography (MCG), underground communication, ultra-low MRI/NMR, NQR detection, and other applications. PMID:27754358

Search for microquasar features in cosmic ray spectra with AMS-01

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Monreal, Benjamin

2004-12-01

Accreting x-ray binaries are sometimes observed to emit compact, relativistic jets of cool plasma; these objects are called "microquasars". It is possible that these jets are responsible for a large flux of galactic cosmic ray protons and nuclei. The energy spectrum from these sources will be very different from the featureless power-law expected from ordinary cosmic-ray acceleration in supernova shocks. The AMS-01 instrument measured cosmic ray protons and helium during 10 days on the Space Shuttle Discovery in 1998; we analyze this data searching for spectral distortions due to nearby microquasar activity. We show that the microquasar contribution to the CR proton flux can be no more than ~2% in the range 2-50 GeV. (Copies available exclusively from MIT Libraries, Rm. 14-0551, Cambridge, MA 02139-4307. Ph. 617-253-5668; Fax 617-253-1690.)

Study of additive manufactured microwave cavities for pulsed optically pumped atomic clock applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Affolderbach, C.; Moreno, W.; Ivanov, A. E.; Debogovic, T.; Pellaton, M.; Skrivervik, A. K.; de Rijk, E.; Mileti, G.

2018-03-01

Additive manufacturing (AM) of passive microwave components is of high interest for the cost-effective and rapid prototyping or manufacture of devices with complex geometries. Here, we present an experimental study on the properties of recently demonstrated microwave resonator cavities manufactured by AM, in view of their applications to high-performance compact atomic clocks. The microwave cavities employ a loop-gap geometry using six electrodes. The critical electrode structures were manufactured monolithically using two different approaches: Stereolithography (SLA) of a polymer followed by metal coating and Selective Laser Melting (SLM) of aluminum. The tested microwave cavities show the desired TE011-like resonant mode at the Rb clock frequency of ≈6.835 GHz, with a microwave magnetic field highly parallel to the quantization axis across the vapor cell. When operated in an atomic clock setup, the measured atomic Rabi oscillations are comparable to those observed for conventionally manufactured cavities and indicate a good uniformity of the field amplitude across the vapor cell. Employing a time-domain Ramsey scheme on one of the SLA cavities, high-contrast (34%) Ramsey fringes are observed for the Rb clock transition, along with a narrow (166 Hz linewidth) central fringe. The measured clock stability of 2.2 × 10-13 τ-1/2 up to the integration time of 30 s is comparable to the current state-of-the-art stabilities of compact vapor-cell clocks based on conventional microwave cavities and thus demonstrates the feasibility of the approach.

An Additive Manufacturing Test Artifact

PubMed Central

Moylan, Shawn; Slotwinski, John; Cooke, April; Jurrens, Kevin; Donmez, M Alkan

2014-01-01

A test artifact, intended for standardization, is proposed for the purpose of evaluating the performance of additive manufacturing (AM) systems. A thorough analysis of previously proposed AM test artifacts as well as experience with machining test artifacts have inspired the design of the proposed test artifact. This new artifact is designed to provide a characterization of the capabilities and limitations of an AM system, as well as to allow system improvement by linking specific errors measured in the test artifact to specific sources in the AM system. The proposed test artifact has been built in multiple materials using multiple AM technologies. The results of several of the builds are discussed, demonstrating how the measurement results can be used to characterize and improve a specific AM system. PMID:26601039

Americium alloys with gold and copper

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Radchenko, V. M.; Ryabinin, M. A.; Chernakova, T. A.; Tomilin, S. V.

2010-03-01

Presented are results of the production and X-ray examination of micro-samples of americium-241 compounds with gold and copper produced by high-temperature condensation of metal americium vapor onto corresponding substrates. No mutual solubility of the investigated system components was revealed at room temperature. The following three intermetallic compounds were revealed in the Am-Au system: Au6Am with tetragonal lattice of the Au6Sm structural type, AuAm with orthorhombic lattice of the CuCe structural type and AuAm with cubic lattice. The Am-Cu system showed the intermetallic compound Cu5Am (Cu7Am) with a hexagonal lattice of the Cu5Ca(Cu7Tb) structure type. An effect of the 241Am nuclide alpha-activity on the crystal structure of the produced intermetallide was studied.

Intrinsic coincident full-Stokes polarimeter using stacked organic photovoltaics and architectural comparison of polarimeter techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Ruonan; Sen, Pratik; O'Connor, B. T.; Kudenov, M. W.

2017-08-01

An intrinsic coincident full-Stokes polarimeter is demonstrated by using stain-aligned polymer-based organic photovoltaics (OPVs) which can preferentially absorb certain polarized states of incident light. The photovoltaic-based polarimeter is capable of measuring four stokes parameters by cascading four semitransparent OPVs in series along the same optical axis. Two wave plates were incorporated into the system to modulate the S3 stokes parameter so as to reduce the condition number of the measurement matrix. The model for the full-Stokes polarimeter was established and validated, demonstrating an average RMS error of 0.84%. The optimization, based on minimizing the condition number of the 4-cell OPV design, showed that a condition number of 2.4 is possible. Performance of this in-line polarimeter concept was compared to other polarimeter architectures, including Division of Time (DoT), Division of Amplitude (DoAm), Division of Focal Plane (DoFP), and Division of Aperture (DoA) from signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) perspective. This in-line polarimeter concept has the potential to enable both high temporal (as compared with a DoT polarimeter) and high spatial resolution (as compared with DoFP and DoA polarimeters). We conclude that the intrinsic design has the same √2 SNR advantage as the DoAm polarimeter, but with greater compactness.

Invited review: The impact of automatic milking systems on dairy cow management, behavior, health, and welfare.

PubMed

Jacobs, J A; Siegford, J M

2012-05-01

Over the last 100 yr, the dairy industry has incorporated technology to maximize yield and profit. Pressure to maximize efficiency and lower inputs has resulted in novel approaches to managing and milking dairy herds, including implementation of automatic milking systems (AMS) to reduce labor associated with milking. Although AMS have been used for almost 20 yr in Europe, they have only recently become more popular in North America. Automatic milking systems have the potential to increase milk production by up to 12%, decrease labor by as much as 18%, and simultaneously improve dairy cow welfare by allowing cows to choose when to be milked. However, producers using AMS may not fully realize these anticipated benefits for a variety of reasons. For example, producers may not see a reduction in labor because some cows do not milk voluntarily or because they have not fully or efficiently incorporated the AMS into their management routines. Following the introduction of AMS on the market in the 1990s, research has been conducted examining AMS systems versus conventional parlors focusing primarily on cow health, milk yield, and milk quality, as well as on some of the economic and social factors related to AMS adoption. Additionally, because AMS rely on cows milking themselves voluntarily, research has also been conducted on the behavior of cows in AMS facilities, with particular attention paid to cow traffic around AMS, cow use of AMS, and cows' motivation to enter the milking stall. However, the sometimes contradictory findings resulting from different studies on the same aspect of AMS suggest that differences in management and farm-level variables may be more important to AMS efficiency and milk production than features of the milking system itself. Furthermore, some of the recommendations that have been made regarding AMS facility design and management should be scientifically tested to demonstrate their validity, as not all may work as intended. As updated AMS designs, such as the automatic rotary milking parlor, continue to be introduced to the dairy industry, research must continue to be conducted on AMS to understand the causes and consequences of differences between milking systems as well as the impacts of the different facilities and management systems that surround them on dairy cow behavior, health, and welfare. Copyright © 2012 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Organization of the Integrated Photonics Topical Meeting Held in Victoria, British Columbia on 30 March-1 April 1998. Technical Digest Series. Volume 4. Postconference Edition

DTIC Science & Technology

1999-03-22

amplifiers fabricated on Si substrates by co- sputtering, (p. 27) 11:30am IMC3 ■ Birefrlngent oxidized porous silicon-based optical waveguides, Yu. N...that integrated optical waveguides based on oxidized porous silicon have a relatively large birefringence. As a result, the modes of both... Membrane microresonator lasers with 2-D photonic bandgap crystal mirrors for compact in- plane optics, B. D’Urso, O. Painter, A. Yariv, A. Scherer

IEEE Conference Record of 1973 Eleventh Modulator Symposium, New York City, 18-19 September 1973.

DTIC Science & Technology

1973-01-01

characteristics of High-Voltage, observed on am NPNP structure of 550 uN base thickness High- Power , Fast-Switching, Reverse- operating at 1.3 Kv I IA I KA/ us 30...of this which supplies four CFA’s. The odd-numered compact modulator are a shunt clamp regulator power supplies have an additional output going to a...three driver of HVPS filter banks. cabinets. Thus four of the power supplies have a 50% greater load than the other four. However, in AEGIS SPY-1

FunBlocks. A modular framework for AmI system development.

PubMed

Baquero, Rafael; Rodríguez, José; Mendoza, Sonia; Decouchant, Dominique; Papis, Alfredo Piero Mateos

2012-01-01

The last decade has seen explosive growth in the technologies required to implement Ambient Intelligence (AmI) systems. Technologies such as facial and speech recognition, home networks, household cleaning robots, to name a few, have become commonplace. However, due to the multidisciplinary nature of AmI systems and the distinct requirements of different user groups, integrating these developments into full-scale systems is not an easy task. In this paper we propose FunBlocks, a minimalist modular framework for the development of AmI systems based on the function module abstraction used in the IEC 61499 standard for distributed control systems. FunBlocks provides a framework for the development of AmI systems through the integration of modules loosely joined by means of an event-driven middleware and a module and sensor/actuator catalog. The modular design of the FunBlocks framework allows the development of AmI systems which can be customized to a wide variety of usage scenarios.

FunBlocks. A Modular Framework for AmI System Development

PubMed Central

Baquero, Rafael; Rodríguez, José; Mendoza, Sonia; Decouchant, Dominique; Papis, Alfredo Piero Mateos

2012-01-01

The last decade has seen explosive growth in the technologies required to implement Ambient Intelligence (AmI) systems. Technologies such as facial and speech recognition, home networks, household cleaning robots, to name a few, have become commonplace. However, due to the multidisciplinary nature of AmI systems and the distinct requirements of different user groups, integrating these developments into full-scale systems is not an easy task. In this paper we propose FunBlocks, a minimalist modular framework for the development of AmI systems based on the function module abstraction used in the IEC 61499 standard for distributed control systems. FunBlocks provides a framework for the development of AmI systems through the integration of modules loosely joined by means of an event-driven middleware and a module and sensor/actuator catalog. The modular design of the FunBlocks framework allows the development of AmI systems which can be customized to a wide variety of usage scenarios. PMID:23112599

Aquifer-System Compaction and Land Subsidence: Measurements, Analyses, and Simulations-the Holly Site, Edwards Air Force Base, Antelope Valley, California

USGS Publications Warehouse

Sneed, Michelle; Galloway, Devin L.

2000-01-01

Land subsidence resulting from ground-water-level declines has long been recognized as a problem in Antelope Valley, California. At Edwards Air Force Base (EAFB), ground-water extractions have caused more than 150 feet of water-level decline, resulting in nearly 4 feet of subsidence. Differential land subsidence has caused sinklike depressions and earth fissures and has accelerated erosion of the playa lakebed surface of Rogers Lake at EAFB, adversely affecting the runways on the lakebed which are used for landing aircraft such as the space shuttles. Since 1990, about 0.4 foot of aquifer-system compaction has been measured at a deep (840 feet) borehole extensometer (Holly site) at EAFB. More than 7 years of paired ground-water-level and aquifer-system compaction measurements made at the Holly site were analyzed for this study. Annually, seasonal water-level fluctuations correspond to steplike variations in aquifer-system compaction; summer water-level drawdowns are associated with larger rates of compaction, and winter water-level recoveries are associated with smaller rates of compaction. The absence of aquifer-system expansion during recovery is consistent with the delayed drainage and resultant delayed, or residual, compaction of thick aquitards. A numerical one-dimensional MODFLOW model of aquitard drainage was used to refine estimates of aquifer-system hydraulic parameters that control compaction and to predict potential future compaction at the Holly site. The analyses and simulations of aquifer-system compaction are based on established theories of aquitard drainage. Historical ground-water-level and land-subsidence data collected near the Holly site were used to constrain simulations of aquifer-system compaction and land subsidence at the site for the period 1908?90, and ground-water-level and aquifer- system compaction measurements collected at the Holly site were used to constrain the model for the period 1990?97. Model results indicate that two thick aqui- tards, which total 129 feet or about half the aggregate thickness of all the aquitards penetrated by the Holly boreholes, account for most (greater than 99 percent) of the compaction measured at the Holly site during the period 1990?97. The results of three scenarios of future water-level changes indicate that these two thick aquitards account for most of the future compaction. The results also indicate that if water levels decline to about 30 feet below the 1997 water levels an additional 1.7 feet of compaction may occur during the next 30 years. If water levels remain at 1997 levels, the model predicts that only 0.8 foot of compaction may occur during the same period, and even if water levels recover to about 30 feet above 1997 water levels, another 0.5 foot of compaction may occur in the next 30 years. In addition, only a portion of the compaction that ultimately will occur likely will occur within the next 30 years; therefore, the residual compaction and associated land subsidence attributed to slowly equilibrating aquitards is important to consider in the long-term management of land and water resources at EAFB.

Uncovering the identities of compact objects in high-mass X-ray binaries and gamma-ray binaries by astrometric measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yamaguchi, M. S.; Yano, T.; Gouda, N.

2018-03-01

We develop a method for identifying a compact object in binary systems with astrometric measurements and apply it to some binaries. Compact objects in some high-mass X-ray binaries and gamma-ray binaries are unknown, which is responsible for the fact that emission mechanisms in such systems have not yet confirmed. The accurate estimate of the mass of the compact object allows us to identify the compact object in such systems. Astrometric measurements are expected to enable us to estimate the masses of the compact objects in the binary systems via a determination of a binary orbit. We aim to evaluate the possibility of the identification of the compact objects for some binary systems. We then calculate probabilities that the compact object is correctly identified with astrometric observation (= confidence level) by taking into account a dependence of the orbital shape on orbital parameters and distributions of masses of white dwarfs, neutron stars and black holes. We find that the astrometric measurements with the precision of 70 μas for γ Cas allow us to identify the compact object at 99 per cent confidence level if the compact object is a white dwarf with 0.6 M⊙. In addition, we can identify the compact object with the precision of 10 μas at 97 per cent or larger confidence level for LS I +61° 303 and 99 per cent or larger for HESS J0632+057. These results imply that the astrometric measurements with the 10 μas precision level can realize the identification of compact objects for γ Cas, LS I +61° 303, and HESS J0632+057.

Finances and returns for robotic dairies.

PubMed

Salfer, J A; Minegishi, K; Lazarus, W; Berning, E; Endres, M I

2017-09-01

Automatic milking systems (AMS) became commercially available in the early 1990s. These systems provide flexibility and improve the lifestyle of farmers installing them. Because of the larger capital cost per kilogram of milk produced, observational studies in Europe and simulation studies have shown AMS to be less profitable than milking parlor systems, although previous findings are somewhat mixed. Improved performance of newer generations of AMS, better facility design to accommodate cow behavior, and better management of these facilities have the potential to make AMS more profitable. Wage rates are also increasing and sourcing high-quality milking labor is challenging. We developed partial budget simulations to model profitability of AMS compared with parlor systems for 120-, 240-, and 1,500-cow farms. Both the 120-cow and 240-cow AMS were more profitable than the parlor systems. However, the 1,500-cow parlor system was more profitable than the AMS. Breakeven labor analysis of the 1,500-cow system showed that at a wage inflation rate of 1% and a 0.91 kg/d lower milk production with the AMS system, the breakeven labor rate was $27.02/h. If the farm is able to achieve similar milk production between the 2 systems and wage inflation averages 3% over the 30-yr time horizon, the breakeven wage rate drops to $17.11/h. The major management factors that influenced the net annual impact were changes in milking labor cost and milk production. Another significant factor affecting net annual impact was the economic life of the AMS. An economic life of 13 yr or longer was required for an AMS to have a consistently positive net annual impact (depending on milk production per cow and labor cost). For every 227-kg increase in daily milk production per AMS, net annual income increased approximately $4,100. Cost-effective ways to optimize milk per AMS are to minimize attaching and milking times and to optimize milking settings. Copyright © 2017 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Molecular and Kinetic Properties of Two Acetylcholinesterases from the Western Honey Bee, Apis mellifera

PubMed Central

Kim, Young Ho; Cha, Deok Jea; Jung, Je Won; Kwon, Hyung Wook; Lee, Si Hyeock

2012-01-01

We investigated the molecular and kinetic properties of two acetylcholinesterases (AmAChE1 and AmAChE2) from the Western honey bee, Apis mellifera. Western blot analysis revealed that AmAChE2 has most of catalytic activity rather than AmAChE1, further suggesting that AmAChE2 is responsible for synaptic transmission in A. mellifera, in contrast to most other insects. AmAChE2 was predominately expressed in the ganglia and head containing the central nervous system (CNS), while AmAChE1 was abundantly observed not only in the CNS but also in the peripheral nervous system/non-neuronal tissues. Both AmAChEs exist as homodimers; the monomers are covalently connected via a disulfide bond under native conditions. However, AmAChE2 was associated with the cell membrane via the glycophosphatidylinositol anchor, while AmAChE1 was present as a soluble form. The two AmAChEs were functionally expressed with a baculovirus system. Kinetic analysis revealed that AmAChE2 has approximately 2,500-fold greater catalytic efficiency toward acetylthiocholine and butyrylthiocholine than AmAChE1, supporting the synaptic function of AmAChE2. In addition, AmAChE2 likely serves as the main target of the organophosphate (OP) and carbamate (CB) insecticides as judged by the lower IC50 values against AmAChE2 than against AmAChE1. When OP and CB insecticides were pre-incubated with a mixture of AmAChE1 and AmAChE2, a significant reduction in the inhibition of AmAChE2 was observed, suggesting a protective role of AmAChE1 against xenobiotics. Taken together, based on their tissue distribution pattern, molecular and kinetic properties, AmAChE2 plays a major role in synaptic transmission, while AmAChE1 has non-neuronal functions, including chemical defense. PMID:23144990

Systemic and local regulation of phosphate and nitrogen transporter genes by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in roots of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.).

PubMed

Duan, Jianfeng; Tian, Hui; Drijber, Rhae A; Gao, Yajun

2015-11-01

Previous studies have reported that the expression of phosphate (Pi) or nitrogen (N) transporter genes in roots of plants could be regulated by arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi, but little is known whether the regulation is systemic or not. The present study investigated the systemic and local regulation of multiple phosphate and nitrogen transporter genes by four AM fungal species belonging to four genera in the roots of winter wheat. A split-root culture system with AM inoculated (MR) and non-inoculated root compartments (NR) was used to investigate the systemic or local responses of phosphate and nitrogen transporter genes to colonization by four AM fungi in the roots of wheat. The expression of four Pi transporter, five nitrate transporter, and three ammonium transporter genes was quantified using real-time PCR. Of the four AM fungi tested, all locally increased expression of the AM-inducible Pi transporter genes, and most locally decreased expression of a Pi-starvation inducible Pi transporter gene. The addition of N in soil increased the expression of either Pi starvation inducible Pi transporters or AM inducible Pi transporters. Inoculation with AM fungi either had no effect, or could locally or systemically down-regulate expression of nitrogen transporter genes depending on gene type and AM fungal species. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Orbit determination and orbit control for the Earth Observing System (EOS) AM spacecraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Herberg, Joseph R.; Folta, David C.

1993-01-01

Future NASA Earth Observing System (EOS) Spacecraft will make measurements of the earth's clouds, oceans, atmosphere, land and radiation balance. These EOS Spacecraft will be part of the NASA Mission to Planet Earth. This paper specifically addresses the EOS AM Spacecraft, referred to as 'AM' because it has a sun-synchronous orbit with a 10:30 AM descending node. This paper describes the EOS AM Spacecraft mission orbit requirements, orbit determination, orbit control, and navigation system impact on earth based pointing. The EOS AM Spacecraft will be the first spacecraft to use the TDRSS Onboard Navigation System (TONS) as the primary means of navigation. TONS flight software will process one-way forward Doppler measurements taken during scheduled TDRSS contacts. An extended Kalman filter will estimate spacecraft position, velocity, drag coefficient correction, and ultrastable master oscillator frequency bias and drift. The TONS baseline algorithms, software, and hardware implementation are described in this paper. TONS integration into the EOS AM Spacecraft Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GN&C) System; TONS assisted onboard time maintenance; and the TONS Ground Support System (TGSS) are also addressed.

Accelerating Industrial Adoption of Metal Additive Manufacturing Technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vartanian, Kenneth; McDonald, Tom

2016-03-01

While metal additive manufacturing (AM) technology has clear benefits, there are still factors preventing its adoption by industry. These factors include the high cost of metal AM systems, the difficulty for machinists to learn and operate metal AM machines, the long approval process for part qualification/certification, and the need for better process controls; however, the high AM system cost is the main barrier deterring adoption. In this paper, we will discuss an America Makes-funded program to reduce AM system cost by combining metal AM technology with conventional computerized numerical controlled (CNC) machine tools. Information will be provided on how an Optomec-led team retrofitted a legacy CNC vertical mill with laser engineered net shaping (LENS®—LENS is a registered trademark of Sandia National Labs) AM technology, dramatically lowering deployment cost. The upgraded system, dubbed LENS Hybrid Vertical Mill, enables metal additive and subtractive operations to be performed on the same machine tool and even on the same part. Information on the LENS Hybrid system architecture, learnings from initial system deployment and continuing development work will also be provided to help guide further development activities within the materials community.

Design and build a compact Raman sensor for identification of chemical composition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Garcia, Christopher S.; Abedin, M. Nurul; Ismail, Syed; Sharma, Shiv K.; Misra, Anupam K.; Sandford, Stephen P.; Elsayed-Ali, Hani

2008-04-01

A compact remote Raman sensor system was developed at NASA Langley Research Center. This sensor is an improvement over the previously reported system, which consisted of a 532 nm pulsed laser, a 4-inch telescope, a spectrograph, and an intensified CCD camera. One of the attractive features of the previous system was its portability, thereby making it suitable for applications such as planetary surface explorations, homeland security and defense applications where a compact portable instrument is important. The new system was made more compact by replacing bulky components with smaller and lighter components. The new compact system uses a smaller spectrograph measuring 9 x 4 x 4 in. and a smaller intensified CCD camera measuring 5 in. long and 2 in. in diameter. The previous system was used to obtain the Raman spectra of several materials that are important to defense and security applications. Furthermore, the new compact Raman sensor system is used to obtain the Raman spectra of a diverse set of materials to demonstrate the sensor system's potential use in the identification of unknown materials.

Design and Build a Compact Raman Sensor for Identification of Chemical Composition

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Garcia, Christopher S.; Abedin, M. Nurul; Ismail, Syed; Sharma, Shiv K.; Misra, Anupam K.; Sandford, Stephen P.; Elsayed-Ali, Hani

2008-01-01

A compact remote Raman sensor system was developed at NASA Langley Research Center. This sensor is an improvement over the previously reported system, which consisted of a 532 nm pulsed laser, a 4-inch telescope, a spectrograph, and an intensified charge-coupled devices (CCD) camera. One of the attractive features of the previous system was its portability, thereby making it suitable for applications such as planetary surface explorations, homeland security and defense applications where a compact portable instrument is important. The new system was made more compact by replacing bulky components with smaller and lighter components. The new compact system uses a smaller spectrograph measuring 9 x 4 x 4 in. and a smaller intensified CCD camera measuring 5 in. long and 2 in. in diameter. The previous system was used to obtain the Raman spectra of several materials that are important to defense and security applications. Furthermore, the new compact Raman sensor system is used to obtain the Raman spectra of a diverse set of materials to demonstrate the sensor system's potential use in the identification of unknown materials.

AMS -- The Unix ADAM Message System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kelly, B. D.; Chipperfield, A. J.

The ADAM Message System (AMS) library, which implements the ADAM inter-task communications protocol under Unix, is described, along with its Fortran-callable interface (FAMS). The description of AMS is distinguished from the current implementation which uses the Message System Primitives (MSP).

The design and implementation of on-line monitoring system for UHV compact shunt capacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tao, Weiliang; Ni, Xuefeng; Lin, Hao; Jiang, Shengbao

2017-08-01

Because of the large capacity and compact structure of the UHV compact shunt capacitor, it is difficult to take effective measures to detect and prevent the faults. If the fault capacitor fails to take timely maintenance, it will pose a threat to the safe operation of the system and the life safety of the maintenance personnel. The development of UHV compact shunt capacitor on-line monitoring system can detect and record the on-line operation information of UHV compact shunt capacitors, analyze and evaluate the early fault warning signs, find out the fault capacitor or the capacitor with fault symptom, to ensure safe and reliable operation of the system.

Amphotericin B liposomes with prolonged circulation in blood: in vitro antifungal activity, toxicity, and efficacy in systemic candidiasis in leukopenic mice.

PubMed Central

van Etten, E W; ten Kate, M T; Stearne, L E; Bakker-Woudenberg, I A

1995-01-01

Pegylated amphotericin B (AmB) liposomes (PEG-AmB-LIP) were compared with laboratory-prepared nonpegylated AmB liposomes (AmB-LIP), a formulation with a lipid composition the same as that in AmBisome, as well as with industrially prepared AmBisome regarding their in vitro antifungal activities, toxicities, blood residence times, and therapeutic efficacies. Killing of Candida albicans (> 99.9%) during short-term (6-h) incubation was observed at 0.2 mg of AmB per liter for AmB desoxycholate, 0.4 mg of AmB per liter for PEG-AmB-LIP, 0.8 mg of AmB per liter for AmB-LIP, and 12.8 mg of AmB per liter for AmBisome. The maximum tolerated doses of PEG-AmB-LIP, AmB-LIP, and AmBisome were 15, 19, and > 31 mg of AmB per kg of body weight, respectively. In contrast to AmB-LIP, the blood residence time of PEG-AmB-LIP was prolonged and dose independent. In a model of systemic candidiasis in leukopenic mice at a dose of 5 mg of AmB per kg, PEG-AmB-LIP was completely effective and AmB-LIP was partially effective, whereas AmBisome was not effective. AmB-LIP at 11 mg of AmB per kg was partially effective. AmBisome at 29 mg of AmB per kg was completely effective. In conclusion, the therapeutic efficacies of AmB liposomes can be improved by preparing AmB liposomes in which a substantial reduction in toxicity is achieved while antifungal activity is retained. In addition, therapeutic efficacy is favored by a prolonged residence time of AmB liposomes in blood. PMID:8540697

Variations in AmLi source spectra and their estimation utilizing the 5 Ring Multiplicity Counter

DOE PAGES

Weinmann-Smith, Robert; Beddingfield, David H.; Enqvist, Andreas; ...

2017-02-28

Active-mode assay systems are widely used for the safeguards of uranium items to verify compliance with the Non-Proliferation Treaty. Systems such as the Active-Well Coincidence Counter (AWCC) and the Uranium Neutron Coincidence Collar (UNCL) use americium-lithium (AmLi) neutron sources to induce fissions which are measured to determine the sample mass. These systems have historically relied on calibrations derived from well-defined standards. Recently, restricted access to standards or more difficult measurements have resulted in a reliance on modeling and simulation for the calibration of systems, which introduces potential simulation biases. Furthermore, the AmLi source energy spectra commonly used in the safeguardsmore » community do not accurately represent measurement results and the spectrum uncertainty can represent a large contribution to the total modeling uncertainty in active-mode systems.« less

Chemical/Biological Agent Resistance Test (CBART) Test Fixture System Verification and Analytical Monitioring System Development

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-03-15

Lone Eagle Street Columbus Ohio 43228 Installation trades personnel 5/7/2009 12:00:00AM 10/31/2010 12:00:00AM Sub Contractor Numbers (c): Patent...43026-2573 Pipe fitter installation trades personnel. 10/21/2009 12:00:00AM 1/31/2011 12:00:00AM Sub Contractor Numbers (c): Patent Clause Number...City Electric Company 1099 Sullivant Avenue Columbus Ohio 43223 Electrical installation trades personnel 4/5/2009 12:00:00AM 9/30/2010 12:00:00AM

Automatic milking systems, farm size, and milk production.

PubMed

Rotz, C A; Coiner, C U; Soder, K J

2003-12-01

Automatic milking systems (AMS) offer relief from the demanding routine of milking. Although many AMS are in use in Europe and a few are used in the United States, the potential benefit for American farms is uncertain. A farm-simulation model was used to determine the long-term, whole-farm effect of implementing AMS on farm sizes of 30 to 270 cows. Highest farm net return to management and unpaid factors was when AMS were used at maximal milking capacity. Adding stalls to increase milking frequency and possibly increase production generally did not improve net return. Compared with new traditional milking systems, the greatest potential economic benefit was a single-stall AMS on a farm size of 60 cows at a moderate milk production level (8600 kg/cow). On other farm sizes using single-stall type robotic units, losses in annual net return of 0 dollars to 300 dollars/cow were projected, with the greatest losses on larger farms and at high milk production (10,900 kg/cow). Systems with one robot serving multiple stalls provided a greater net return than single-stall systems, and this net return was competitive with traditional parlors for 50- to 130-cow farm sizes. The potential benefit of AMS was improved by 100 dollars/cow per year if the AMS increased production an additional 5%. A 20% reduction in initial equipment cost or doubling milking labor cost also improved annual net return of an AMS by up to 100 dollars/cow. Annual net return was reduced by 110 dollars/cow, though, if the economic life of the AMS was reduced by 3 yr for a more rapid depreciation than that normally used with traditional milking systems. Thus, under current assumptions, the economic return for an AMS was similar to that of new parlor systems on smaller farms when the milking capacity of the AMS was well matched to herd size and milk production level.

Skylab

NASA Image and Video Library

1972-01-01

This photograph shows the flight article of the Airlock Module (AM)/Multiple Docking Adapter (MDA) assembly being readied for testing in a clean room at the McDornell Douglas Plant in St. Louis, Missouri. Although the AM and the MDA were separate entities, they were in many respects simply two components of a single module. The AM enabled crew members to conduct extravehicular activities outside Skylab as required for experiment support. Oxygen and nitrogen storage tanks needed for Skylab's life support system were mounted on the external truss work of the AM. Major components in the AM included Skylab's electric power control and distribution station, environmental control system, communication system, and data handling and recording systems. The MDA, forward of the AM, provided docking facilities for the Command and Service Module. It also accommodated several experiment systems, among them the Earth Resource Experiment Package, the materials processing facility, and the control and display console needed for the Apollo Telescope Mount solar astronomy studies. The AM was built by McDonnell Douglas and the MDA was built by Martin Marietta. The Marshall Space Flight Center was responsible for the design and development of the Skylab hardware and experiment management.

Skylab

NASA Image and Video Library

1972-03-01

This photograph shows the flight article of the mated Airlock Module (AM) and Multiple Docking Adapter (MDA) being lowering into horizontal position on a transporter. Although the AM and the MDA were separate entities, they were in many respects simply two components of a single module. The AM enabled crew members to conduct extravehicular activities outside Skylab as required for experiment support. Oxygen and nitrogen storage tanks needed for Skylab's life support system were mounted on the external truss work of the AM. Major components in the AM included Skylab's electric power control and distribution station, environmental control system, communication system, and data handling and recording systems. The MDA, forward of the AM, provided docking facilities for the Command and Service Module. It also accommodated several experiment systems, among them the Earth Resource Experiment Package, the materials processing facility, and the control and display console needed for the Apollo Telescope Mount solar astronomy studies. The AM was built by McDornell Douglas and the MDA was built by Martin Marietta. The Marshall Space Flight Center was responsible for the design and development of the Skylab hardware and experiment management.

Compact Polarimetry Potentials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Truong-Loi, My-Linh; Dubois-Fernandez, Pascale; Pottier, Eric

2011-01-01

The goal of this study is to show the potential of a compact-pol SAR system for vegetation applications. Compact-pol concept has been suggested to minimize the system design while maximize the information and is declined as the ?/4, ?/2 and hybrid modes. In this paper, the applications such as biomass and vegetation height estimates are first presented, then, the equivalence between compact-pol data simulated from full-pol data and compact-pol data processed from raw data as such is shown. Finally, a calibration procedure using external targets is proposed.

On the Ck-embedding of Lorentzian manifolds in Ricci-flat spaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Avalos, R.; Dahia, F.; Romero, C.

2018-05-01

In this paper, we investigate the problem of non-analytic embeddings of Lorentzian manifolds in Ricci-flat semi-Riemannian spaces. In order to do this, we first review some relevant results in the area and then motivate both the mathematical and physical interests in this problem. We show that any n-dimensional compact Lorentzian manifold (Mn, g), with g in the Sobolev space Hs+3, s >n/2 , admits an isometric embedding in a (2n + 2)-dimensional Ricci-flat semi-Riemannian manifold. The sharpest result available for these types of embeddings, in the general setting, comes as a corollary of Greene's remarkable embedding theorems R. Greene [Mem. Am. Math. Soc. 97, 1 (1970)], which guarantee the embedding of a compact n-dimensional semi-Riemannian manifold into an n(n + 5)-dimensional semi-Euclidean space, thereby guaranteeing the embedding into a Ricci-flat space with the same dimension. The theorem presented here improves this corollary in n2 + 3n - 2 codimensions by replacing the Riemann-flat condition with the Ricci-flat one from the beginning. Finally, we will present a corollary of this theorem, which shows that a compact strip in an n-dimensional globally hyperbolic space-time can be embedded in a (2n + 2)-dimensional Ricci-flat semi-Riemannian manifold.

Where are compact groups in the local Universe?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Díaz-Giménez, Eugenia; Zandivarez, Ariel

2015-06-01

Aims: The purpose of this work is to perform a statistical analysis of the location of compact groups in the Universe from observational and semi-analytical points of view. Methods: We used the velocity-filtered compact group sample extracted from the Two Micron All Sky Survey for our analysis. We also used a new sample of galaxy groups identified in the 2M++ galaxy redshift catalogue as tracers of the large-scale structure. We defined a procedure to search in redshift space for compact groups that can be considered embedded in other overdense systems and applied this criterion to several possible combinations of different compact and galaxy group subsamples. We also performed similar analyses for simulated compact and galaxy groups identified in a 2M++ mock galaxy catalogue constructed from the Millennium Run Simulation I plus a semi-analytical model of galaxy formation. Results: We observed that only ~27% of the compact groups can be considered to be embedded in larger overdense systems, that is, most of the compact groups are more likely to be isolated systems. The embedded compact groups show statistically smaller sizes and brighter surface brightnesses than non-embedded systems. No evidence was found that embedded compact groups are more likely to inhabit galaxy groups with a given virial mass or with a particular dynamical state. We found very similar results when the analysis was performed using mock compact and galaxy groups. Based on the semi-analytical studies, we predict that 70% of the embedded compact groups probably are 3D physically dense systems. Finally, real space information allowed us to reveal the bimodal behaviour of the distribution of 3D minimum distances between compact and galaxy groups. Conclusions: The location of compact groups should be carefully taken into account when comparing properties of galaxies in environments that are a priori different. Appendices are available in electronic form at http://www.aanda.orgFull Tables B.1 and B.2 are only available at the CDS via anonymous ftp to http://cdsarc.u-strasbg.fr (ftp://130.79.128.5) or via http://cdsarc.u-strasbg.fr/viz-bin/qcat?J/A+A/578/A61

Compact instrument for fluorescence image-guided surgery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Xinghua; Bhaumik, Srabani; Li, Qing; Staudinger, V. Paul; Yazdanfar, Siavash

2010-03-01

Fluorescence image-guided surgery (FIGS) is an emerging technique in oncology, neurology, and cardiology. To adapt intraoperative imaging for various surgical applications, increasingly flexible and compact FIGS instruments are necessary. We present a compact, portable FIGS system and demonstrate its use in cardiovascular mapping in a preclinical model of myocardial ischemia. Our system uses fiber optic delivery of laser diode excitation, custom optics with high collection efficiency, and compact consumer-grade cameras as a low-cost and compact alternative to open surgical FIGS systems. Dramatic size and weight reduction increases flexibility and access, and allows for handheld use or unobtrusive positioning over the surgical field.

A compact rail-to-rail CMOS buffer amplifier with very low quiescent current

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arslan, Emre; Yıldız, Merih; Minaei, Shahram

2015-06-01

In this work, a very compact, rail-to-rail, high-speed buffer amplifier for liquid crystal display (LCD) applications is proposed. Compared to other buffer amplifiers, the proposed circuit has a very simple architecture, occupies a small number of transistors and also has a large driving capacity with very low quiescent current. It is composed of two complementary differential input stages to provide rail-to-rail driving capacity. The push-pull transistors are directly connected to the differential input stage, and the output is taken from an inverter. The proposed buffer circuit is laid out using Mentor Graphics IC Station layout editor using AMS 0.35 μm process parameters. It is shown by post-layout simulations that the proposed buffer can drive a 1 nF capacitive load within a small settling time under a full voltage swing, while drawing only 1.6 μA quiescent current from a 3.3 V power supply.

Studies of PuF sub 6 and transplutonic materials' critical properties for space high power nuclear pumped lasers

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

Gu, A.G.; Miller, M.S.

1991-01-01

All space missions require a reliable, compact source of energy. This paper describes preliminary neutronics studies of pocket'' reactor concepts employing PuF{sub 6} and transplutonic materials as fuels for space high power/energy Nuclear Pumped Lasers (NPLs). Previous research has studied NPL reactor concepts with thin fuel layers, aerosol fuels and gaseous UF{sub 6}. The total reactor volumes for compact reactors with these types of fuels typically range from 3 m{sup 3} to 50 m{sup 3}. By employing PuF{sub 6} and transplutonic fuels at the same low densities, a calculated value for Keff of 1.2 has been achieved for conditions ofmore » 900 K and 5 atm, with total reactor volumes of 1.5 m{sup 3} for PuF{sub 6}, 0.51 m{sup 3} for Am-242m, 0.58 m{sup 3} for Cm-245 and 0.63 m{sup 3} for Cf-249.« less

Thermodynamic assessments and inter-relationships between systems involving Al, Am, Ga, Pu, and U

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Perron, A.; Turchi, P. E. A.; Landa, A.; Oudot, B.; Ravat, B.; Delaunay, F.

2016-12-01

A newly developed self-consistent CALPHAD thermodynamic database involving Al, Am, Ga, Pu, and U is presented. A first optimization of the slightly characterized Am-Al and completely unknown Am-Ga phase diagrams is proposed. To this end, phase diagram features as crystal structures, stoichiometric compounds, solubility limits, and melting temperatures have been studied along the U-Al → Pu-Al → Am-Al, and U-Ga → Pu-Ga → Am-Ga series, and the thermodynamic assessments involving Al and Ga alloying are compared. In addition, two distinct optimizations of the Pu-Al phase diagram are proposed to account for the low temperature and Pu-rich region controversy. The previously assessed thermodynamics of the other binary systems (Am-Pu, Am-U, Pu-U, and Al-Ga) is also included in the database and is briefly described in the present work. Finally, predictions on phase stability of ternary and quaternary systems of interest are reported to check the consistency of the database.

Thermodynamic assessments and inter-relationships between systems involving Al, Am, Ga, Pu, and U

DOE PAGES

Perron, A.; Turchi, P. E. A.; Landa, A.; ...

2016-12-01

We present a newly developed self-consistent CALPHAD thermodynamic database involving Al, Am, Ga, Pu, and U. A first optimization of the slightly characterized Am-Al and completely unknown Am-Ga phase diagrams is proposed. To this end, phase diagram features as crystal structures, stoichiometric compounds, solubility limits, and melting temperatures have been studied along the U-Al → Pu-Al → Am-Al, and U-Ga → Pu-Ga → Am-Ga series, and the thermodynamic assessments involving Al and Ga alloying are compared. In addition, two distinct optimizations of the Pu-Al phase diagram are proposed to account for the low temperature and Pu-rich region controversy. We includedmore » the previously assessed thermodynamics of the other binary systems (Am-Pu, Am-U, Pu-U, and Al-Ga) in the database and is briefly described in the present work. In conclusion, predictions on phase stability of ternary and quaternary systems of interest are reported to check the consistency of the database.« less

Determination of the 240Pu/ 239Pu atomic ratio in soils from Palomares (Spain) by low-energy accelerator mass spectrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chamizo, E.; García-León, M.; Synal, H.-A.; Suter, M.; Wacker, L.

2006-08-01

In 1966, the nuclear fuel of two thermonuclear bombs was released over the Spanish region of Palomares, due to a B52 bomber accident during a refuelling operation. Since then, much effort has been made to assess its impact to the different environmental compartments of this area in South-East Spain, mostly by measuring the 239+240Pu activity concentration and the 238Pu/239+240Pu activity ratio. Nevertheless, these measurements do not give enough information on the problem. In order to recognize unambiguously small traces of the weapon-grade plutonium released in the accident, the ratio of the two major isotopes of plutonium, 240Pu/239Pu, has to be determined. In this work, this ratio has been measured in low- and high-activity samples from Palomares by means of low-energy accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS). That way, we will show the potential of the new generation of compact AMS facilities in terms of plutonium characterization at ultra-trace levels.

Adaptive Multi-scale Prognostics and Health Management for Smart Manufacturing Systems

PubMed Central

Choo, Benjamin Y.; Adams, Stephen C.; Weiss, Brian A.; Marvel, Jeremy A.; Beling, Peter A.

2017-01-01

The Adaptive Multi-scale Prognostics and Health Management (AM-PHM) is a methodology designed to enable PHM in smart manufacturing systems. In application, PHM information is not yet fully utilized in higher-level decision-making in manufacturing systems. AM-PHM leverages and integrates lower-level PHM information such as from a machine or component with hierarchical relationships across the component, machine, work cell, and assembly line levels in a manufacturing system. The AM-PHM methodology enables the creation of actionable prognostic and diagnostic intelligence up and down the manufacturing process hierarchy. Decisions are then made with the knowledge of the current and projected health state of the system at decision points along the nodes of the hierarchical structure. To overcome the issue of exponential explosion of complexity associated with describing a large manufacturing system, the AM-PHM methodology takes a hierarchical Markov Decision Process (MDP) approach into describing the system and solving for an optimized policy. A description of the AM-PHM methodology is followed by a simulated industry-inspired example to demonstrate the effectiveness of AM-PHM. PMID:28736651

75 FR 17161 - Meeting of the Compact Council for the National Crime Prevention and Privacy Compact

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-04-05

... Compact also provides a legal framework for the establishment of a cooperative federal-state system to... agencies to serve on the Council. The Council will prescribe system rules and procedures for the effective and proper operation of the Interstate Identification Index system. Matters for discussion are...

Summary of extensometric measurements in El Paso, Texas

USGS Publications Warehouse

Heywood, Charles E.

2003-01-01

Two counter-weighted-pipe borehole extensometers were installed on the left bank of the Rio Grande between El Paso, Texas, and Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua, Mexico, in 1992. A shallow extensometer measures vertical compaction in the 6- to 100-meter aquifer-system depth interval. A deep extensometer measures vertical compaction in the 6- to 305-meter aquifer-system depth interval. Both extensometers are referenced to the same surface datum, which allows time-series differencing to determine vertical compaction in the depth interval between 100 and 305 meters. From April 2, 1993, through June 13, 2002, 1.6 centimeters of compaction occurred in the 6-to 305-m depth interval. Until February 1999, most aquifer-system compaction occurred in the deeper aquifer-system interval between 100 and 305 meters, from which ground water was extracted. After that time, compaction in the shallow interval from 6 to 100 meters was predominant and attained a maximum of 7.6 millimeters by June 13, 2002. Minor residual compaction is expected to continue; continued maintenance of the El Paso extensometers would document this process.

A Compact Multilayer Diplexer in LTCC Substrate Using LPF with Multiple Attenuation Poles and Wideband BPF

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oshima, Shinpei; Wada, Kouji; Murata, Ryuji; Shimakata, Yukihiro

Recently, compact wideband BPFs for UWB system are studied actively. In this paper we propose a compact diplexer in LTCC substrate for UWB system and 2.4GHz wireless systems. Firstly, a wideband BPF for UWB system and an LPF with multiple attenuation poles for 2.4GHz wireless systems are described. Secondly, we design matching circuits of a common port to keep basic performance of both the BPF and the LPF. Thirdly, in accordance with the result of the study, we design a compact diplexer in LTCC substrate. Finally, we verify the effectiveness of proposed method by experiments.

Ultrasonic real-time in-die monitoring of the tablet compaction process-a proof of concept study.

PubMed

Stephens, James D; Kowalczyk, Brian R; Hancock, Bruno C; Kaul, Goldi; Cetinkaya, Cetin

2013-02-14

The mechanical properties of a drug tablet can affect its performance (e.g., dissolution profile and its physical robustness. An ultrasonic system for real-time in-die tablet mechanical property monitoring during compaction has been demonstrated. The reported set-up is a proof of concept compaction monitoring system which includes an ultrasonic transducer mounted inside the upper punch of the compaction apparatus. This upper punch is utilized to acquire ultrasonic pressure wave phase velocity waveforms and extract the time-of-flight of pressure waves travelling within the compact at a number of compaction force levels during compaction. The reflection coefficients for the waves reflecting from punch tip-powder bed interface are extracted from the acquired waveforms. The reflection coefficient decreases with an increase in compaction force, indicating solidification. The data acquisition methods give an average apparent Young's moduli in the range of 8-20 GPa extracted during the compaction and release/decompression phases in real-time. A monitoring system employing such methods is capable of determining material properties and the integrity of the tablet during compaction. As compared to the millisecond time-scale dwell time of a typical commercial compaction press, the micro-second pulse duration and ToF of an acoustic pulse are sufficiently fast for real-time monitoring. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Polymers for 3D Printing and Customized Additive Manufacturing.

PubMed

Ligon, Samuel Clark; Liska, Robert; Stampfl, Jürgen; Gurr, Matthias; Mülhaupt, Rolf

2017-08-09

Additive manufacturing (AM) alias 3D printing translates computer-aided design (CAD) virtual 3D models into physical objects. By digital slicing of CAD, 3D scan, or tomography data, AM builds objects layer by layer without the need for molds or machining. AM enables decentralized fabrication of customized objects on demand by exploiting digital information storage and retrieval via the Internet. The ongoing transition from rapid prototyping to rapid manufacturing prompts new challenges for mechanical engineers and materials scientists alike. Because polymers are by far the most utilized class of materials for AM, this Review focuses on polymer processing and the development of polymers and advanced polymer systems specifically for AM. AM techniques covered include vat photopolymerization (stereolithography), powder bed fusion (SLS), material and binder jetting (inkjet and aerosol 3D printing), sheet lamination (LOM), extrusion (FDM, 3D dispensing, 3D fiber deposition, and 3D plotting), and 3D bioprinting. The range of polymers used in AM encompasses thermoplastics, thermosets, elastomers, hydrogels, functional polymers, polymer blends, composites, and biological systems. Aspects of polymer design, additives, and processing parameters as they relate to enhancing build speed and improving accuracy, functionality, surface finish, stability, mechanical properties, and porosity are addressed. Selected applications demonstrate how polymer-based AM is being exploited in lightweight engineering, architecture, food processing, optics, energy technology, dentistry, drug delivery, and personalized medicine. Unparalleled by metals and ceramics, polymer-based AM plays a key role in the emerging AM of advanced multifunctional and multimaterial systems including living biological systems as well as life-like synthetic systems.

Polymers for 3D Printing and Customized Additive Manufacturing

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

Additive manufacturing (AM) alias 3D printing translates computer-aided design (CAD) virtual 3D models into physical objects. By digital slicing of CAD, 3D scan, or tomography data, AM builds objects layer by layer without the need for molds or machining. AM enables decentralized fabrication of customized objects on demand by exploiting digital information storage and retrieval via the Internet. The ongoing transition from rapid prototyping to rapid manufacturing prompts new challenges for mechanical engineers and materials scientists alike. Because polymers are by far the most utilized class of materials for AM, this Review focuses on polymer processing and the development of polymers and advanced polymer systems specifically for AM. AM techniques covered include vat photopolymerization (stereolithography), powder bed fusion (SLS), material and binder jetting (inkjet and aerosol 3D printing), sheet lamination (LOM), extrusion (FDM, 3D dispensing, 3D fiber deposition, and 3D plotting), and 3D bioprinting. The range of polymers used in AM encompasses thermoplastics, thermosets, elastomers, hydrogels, functional polymers, polymer blends, composites, and biological systems. Aspects of polymer design, additives, and processing parameters as they relate to enhancing build speed and improving accuracy, functionality, surface finish, stability, mechanical properties, and porosity are addressed. Selected applications demonstrate how polymer-based AM is being exploited in lightweight engineering, architecture, food processing, optics, energy technology, dentistry, drug delivery, and personalized medicine. Unparalleled by metals and ceramics, polymer-based AM plays a key role in the emerging AM of advanced multifunctional and multimaterial systems including living biological systems as well as life-like synthetic systems. PMID:28756658

Effect of end-point compaction on superpave hot mix asphalt (HMA) mix designs.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2004-01-09

In the Superpave hot mix asphalt (HMA) mix design system, gyratory specime ns are compacted to varying levels of initial (Ninitial), : design (Ndesign) and maximum (Nmaximum) gyrations. Initially, in the Superpave system, specimens were compacted to ...

Strategy Guideline. Compact Air Distribution Systems

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

Burdick, Arlan

2013-06-01

This guideline discusses the benefits and challenges of using a compact air distribution system to handle the reduced loads and reduced air volume needed to condition the space within an energy efficient home. The decision criteria for a compact air distribution system must be determined early in the whole-house design process, considering both supply and return air design. However, careful installation of a compact air distribution system can result in lower material costs from smaller equipment, shorter duct runs, and fewer outlets; increased installation efficiencies, including ease of fitting the system into conditioned space; lower loads on a better balancedmore » HVAC system, and overall improved energy efficiency of the home.« less

2D stepping drive for hyperspectral systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Endrödy, Csaba; Mehner, Hannes; Grewe, Adrian; Sinzinger, Stefan; Hoffmann, Martin

2015-07-01

We present the design, fabrication and characterization of a compact 2D stepping microdrive for pinhole array positioning. The miniaturized solution enables a highly integrated compact hyperspectral imaging system. Based on the geometry of the pinhole array, an inch-worm drive with electrostatic actuators was designed resulting in a compact (1 cm2) positioning system featuring a step size of about 15 µm in a 170 µm displacement range. The high payload (20 mg) as required for the pinhole array and the compact system design exceed the known electrostatic inch-worm-based microdrives.

A Muscle Fibre Conduction Velocity Tracking ASIC for Local Fatigue Monitoring.

PubMed

Koutsos, Ermis; Cretu, Vlad; Georgiou, Pantelis

2016-12-01

Electromyography analysis can provide information about a muscle's fatigue state by estimating Muscle Fibre Conduction Velocity (MFCV), a measure of the travelling speed of Motor Unit Action Potentials (MUAPs) in muscle tissue. MFCV better represents the physical manifestations of muscle fatigue, compared to the progressive compression of the myoelectic Power Spectral Density, hence it is more suitable for a muscle fatigue tracking system. This paper presents a novel algorithm for the estimation of MFCV using single threshold bit-stream conversion and a dedicated application-specified integrated circuit (ASIC) for its implementation, suitable for a compact, wearable and easy to use muscle fatigue monitor. The presented ASIC is implemented in a commercially available AMS 0.35 [Formula: see text] CMOS technology and utilizes a bit-stream cross-correlator that estimates the conduction velocity of the myoelectric signal in real time. A test group of 20 subjects was used to evaluate the performance of the developed ASIC, achieving good accuracy with an error of only 3.2% compared to Matlab.

Atomic magnetometer for human magnetoencephalograpy.

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

Schwindt, Peter; Johnson, Cort N.

2010-12-01

We have developed a high sensitivity (<5 fTesla/{radical}Hz), fiber-optically coupled magnetometer to detect magnetic fields produced by the human brain. This is the first demonstration of a noncryogenic sensor that could replace cryogenic superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) magnetometers in magnetoencephalography (MEG) and is an important advance in realizing cost-effective MEG. Within the sensor, a rubidium vapor is optically pumped with 795 laser light while field-induced optical rotations are measured with 780 nm laser light. Both beams share a single optical axis to maximize simplicity and compactness. In collaboration with neuroscientists at The Mind Research Network in Albuquerque, NM, themore » evoked responses resulting from median nerve and auditory stimulation were recorded with the atomic magnetometer and a commercial SQUID-based MEG system with signals comparing favorably. Multi-sensor operation has been demonstrated with two AMs placed on opposite sides of the head. Straightforward miniaturization would enable high-density sensor arrays for whole-head magnetoencephalography.« less

A weed compaction roller system for use with mechanical herbicide application

Treesearch

Adam H. Wiese; Daniel A. Netzer; Don E. Riemenschneider; Ronald S., Jr. Zalesny

2006-01-01

We designed, constructed, and field-tested a versatile and unique weed compaction roller system that can be used with mechanical herbicide application for invasive weed control in tree plantations, agronomic settings, and areas where localized flora and fauna are in danger of elimination from the landscape. The weed compaction roller system combined with herbicide...

AM2 Opposite Lay Evaluation

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-06-01

locations on every 6-in. compacted lift to verify that the target CBR of 6 had been reasonably achieved. If the average pretest CBR of a lift...116.3 87.6 32.7 27.2 5.7 - 30 in. 117.5 88.9 32.0 32.6 6.2 - Posttest F-15E Item Surface 120.0 92.1 30.3 27.6 9.6 2.9 Pretest C-17 Item Surface...gauge data examples are presented in groups based on their comparable locations on the F-15E and C-17 test items. In each plot, the x-axis

The fine structure of the sperm of the round goby (Neogobius melanostomus)

USGS Publications Warehouse

Allen, Jeffrey D.; Walker, Glenn K.; Nichols, Susan J.; Sorenson, Dorothy

2004-01-01

The fine structural details of the spermatozoon of the round goby are presented for the first time in this study. Scanning and transmission electron microscopic examination of testis reveals an anacrosomal spermatozoon with a slightly elongate head and uniformly compacted chromatin. The midpiece contains a single, spherical mitochondrion. Two perpendicularly oriented centrioles lie in a deep, eccentric nuclear fossa with no regularly observed connection to the nucleus. The flagellum develops bilateral fins soon after emerging from the fossa; each extends approximately 1 A?m from the axoneme and persists nearly the length of the flagellum.

Compact Power Conditioning and RF Systems for a High Power RF Source

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-12-01

RF systems have increasing potential for application by the Army. High power RF, or high power microwave ( HPM ), systems can disrupt or disable...that are small, lightweight, portable, and use an independent energy source. The resulting system will be able to produce HPM from a compact package...The consortium was formed to advance the technology of the components required for a compact HPM source with the final goal of full system

Central effects of thyronamines on glucose metabolism in rats.

PubMed

Klieverik, Lars P; Foppen, Ewout; Ackermans, Mariëtte T; Serlie, Mireille J; Sauerwein, Hans P; Scanlan, Thomas S; Grandy, David K; Fliers, Eric; Kalsbeek, Andries

2009-06-01

Thyronamines are naturally occurring, chemical relatives of thyroid hormone. Systemic administration of synthetic 3-iodothyronamine (T(1)AM) and - to a lesser extent - thyronamine (T(0)AM), leads to acute bradycardia, hypothermia, decreased metabolic rate, and hyperglycemia. This profile led us to hypothesize that the central nervous system is among the principal targets of thyronamines. We investigated whether a low dose i.c.v. infusion of synthetic thyronamines recapitulates the changes in glucose metabolism that occur following i.p. thyronamine administration. Plasma glucose, glucoregulatory hormones, and endogenous glucose production (EGP) using stable isotope dilution were monitored in rats before and 120 min after an i.p. (50 mg/kg) or i.c.v. (0.5 mg/kg) bolus infusion of T(1)AM, T(0)AM, or vehicle. To identify the peripheral effects of centrally administered thyronamines, drug-naive rats were also infused intravenously with low dose (0.5 mg/kg) thyronamines. Systemic T(1)AM rapidly increased EGP and plasma glucose, increased plasma glucagon, and corticosterone, but failed to change plasma insulin. Compared with i.p.-administered T(1)AM, a 100-fold lower dose administered centrally induced a more pronounced acute EGP increase and hyperglucagonemia while plasma insulin tended to decrease. Both systemic and central infusions of T(0)AM caused smaller increases in EGP, plasma glucose, and glucagon compared with T(1)AM. Neither T(1)AM nor T(0)AM influenced any of these parameters upon low dose i.v. administration. We conclude that central administration of low-dose thyronamines suffices to induce the acute alterations in glucoregulatory hormones and glucose metabolism following systemic thyronamine infusion. Our data indicate that thyronamines can act centrally to modulate glucose metabolism.

Study of a module alignment measuring system for UARS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1982-01-01

An alignment measurement system (AMS) which precisely determines the boresights pointing directions of the Upper Atmosphere Research Satellite (UARS) instruments relative to the UARS attitude control system (ACS) was studied. The technology used in on the MAGSAT mission was considered. The AMS optical, mechanical, thermal and electrical system properties were defined. The AMS is constrained to interface with the UARS instrument module and spacecraft layout.

Occupational Health and Safety of Finnish Dairy Farmers Using Automatic Milking Systems.

PubMed

Karttunen, Janne P; Rautiainen, Risto H; Lunner-Kolstrup, Christina

2016-01-01

Conventional pipeline and parlor milking expose dairy farmers and workers to adverse health outcomes. In recent years, automatic milking systems (AMS) have gained much popularity in Finland, but the changes in working conditions when changing to AMS are not well known. The aim of this study was to investigate the occupational health and safety risks in using AMS, compared to conventional milking systems (CMS). An anonymous online survey was sent to each Finnish dairy farm with an AMS in 2014. Only those dairy farmers with prior work experience in CMS were included in the final analysis consisting of frequency distributions and descriptive statistics. We received 228 usable responses (131 male and 97 female; 25.2% response rate). The majority of the participants found that AMS had brought flexibility to the organization of farm work, and it had increased leisure time, quality of life, productivity of dairy work, and the attractiveness of dairy farming among the younger generation. In addition, AMS reduced the perceived physical strain on the musculoskeletal system as well as the risk of occupational injuries and diseases, compared to CMS. However, working in close proximity to the cattle, particularly training of heifers to use the AMS, was regarded as a high-risk work task. In addition, the daily cleaning of the AMS and manual handling of rejected milk were regarded as physically demanding. The majority of the participants stated that mental stress caused by the monotonous, repetitive, paced, and hurried work had declined after changing to AMS. However, many indicated increased mental stress because of the demanding management of the AMS. Nightly alarms caused by the AMS, lack of adequately skilled hired labor or farm relief workers, and the 24/7 standby for the AMS were issues that also caused mental stress. Based on this study, AMS may have significant potential in the prevention of adverse health outcomes in milking of dairy cows. In addition, AMS may improve the productivity of dairy work and sustainability of dairy production. However, certain characteristics of the AMS require further attention with regard to occupational health and safety risks.

Influence of particle size distribution on nanopowder cold compaction processes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boltachev, G.; Volkov, N.; Lukyashin, K.; Markov, V.; Chingina, E.

2017-06-01

Nanopowder uniform and uniaxial cold compaction processes are simulated by 2D granular dynamics method. The interaction of particles in addition to wide-known contact laws involves the dispersion forces of attraction and possibility of interparticle solid bridges formation, which have a large importance for nanopowders. Different model systems are investigated: monosized systems with particle diameter of 10, 20 and 30 nm; bidisperse systems with different content of small (diameter is 10 nm) and large (30 nm) particles; polydisperse systems corresponding to the log-normal size distribution law with different width. Non-monotone dependence of compact density on powder content is revealed in bidisperse systems. The deviations of compact density in polydisperse systems from the density of corresponding monosized system are found to be minor, less than 1 per cent.

Essential oils and their principal constituents as antimicrobial agents for synthetic packaging films.

PubMed

Kuorwel, Kuorwel K; Cran, Marlene J; Sonneveld, Kees; Miltz, Joseph; Bigger, Stephen W

2011-01-01

Spices and herbal plant species have been recognized to possess a broad spectrum of active constituents that exhibit antimicrobial (AM) activity. These active compounds are produced as secondary metabolites associated with the volatile essential oil (EO) fraction of these plants. A wide range of AM agents derived from EOs have the potential to be used in AM packaging systems which is one of the promising forms of active packaging systems aimed at protecting food products from microbial contamination. Many studies have evaluated the AM activity of synthetic AM and/or natural AM agents incorporated into packaging materials and have demonstrated effective AM activity by controlling the growth of microorganisms. This review examines the more common synthetic and natural AM agents incorporated into or coated onto synthetic packaging films for AM packaging applications. The focus is on the widely studied herb varieties including basil, oregano, and thyme and their EOs. © 2011 Institute of Food Technologists®

Effect of Valsartan on Cerebellar Adrenomedullin System Dysregulation During Hypertension.

PubMed

Figueira, Leticia; Israel, Anita

2017-02-01

Adrenomedullin (AM) and its receptors components, calcitonin-receptor-like receptor (CRLR), and receptor activity-modifying protein (RAMP1, RAMP2, and RAMP3) are expressed in cerebellum. Cerebellar AM, AM binding sites and receptor components are altered during hypertension, suggesting a role for cerebellar AM in blood pressure regulation. Thus, we assessed the effect of valsartan, on AM and its receptor components expression in the cerebellar vermis of Wistar Kyoto (WKY) and spontaneously hypertensive (SHR) rats. Additionally, we evaluated AM action on superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity, and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) production in cerebellar vermis. Animals were treated with valsartan or vehicle for 11 days. Rats were sacrificed by decapitation; cerebellar vermis was dissected; and AM, CRLR, RAMP1, RAMP2, and RAMP3 expression was quantified by Western blot analysis. CAT, SOD, and GPx activity was determined spectrophotometrically and blood pressure by non-invasive plethysmography. We demonstrate that AM and RAMP2 expression was lower in cerebellum of SHR rats, while CRLR, RAMP1, and RAMP3 expression was higher than those of WKY rats. AM reduced cerebellar CAT, SOD, GPx activities, and TBARS production in WKY rats, but not in SHR rats. Valsartan reduced blood pressure and reversed the altered expression of AM and its receptors components, as well the loss of AM capacity to reduce antioxidant enzyme activity and TBARS production in SHR rats. These findings demonstrate that valsartan is able to reverse the dysregulation of cerebellar adrenomedullinergic system; and they suggest that altered AM system in the cerebellum could represent the primary abnormality leading to hypertension.

Un Nuevo Convenio para el Aprendizaje: Una Sociedad para Mejorar los Resultados Educativos en el Estado de Nueva York (A New Compact for Learning: A Partnership To Improve Educational Results in New York State).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

New York State Education Dept., Albany. Office of Elementary, Middle and Secondary Education.

This Spanish translation of the abridged version of "A New Compact for Learning" acknowledges the current U.S. education system's inadequacy to educate U.S. citizenry and introduces New York State's New Compact for Learning, intended as a plan to reorganize New York's own system. The compact's fundamental principles are: (1) recognizing…

Skylab

NASA Image and Video Library

1972-01-01

This photograph depicts the flight article of the Airlock Module (AM) Flight Article being mated to the Fixed Airlock Shroud and aligned in a clean room of the McDornell Douglas Plant in St. Louis, Missouri. The AM enabled crew members to conduct extravehicular activities outside Skylab as required for experiment support. Separated from the Workshop and the Multiple Docking Adapter by doors, the AM could be evacuated for egress or ingress of a space-suited astronaut through a side hatch. Oxygen and nitrogen storage tanks needed for Skylab's life support system were mounted on the external truss work of the AM. Major components in the AM included Skylab's electric power control and distribution station, environmental control system, communication system, and data handling and recording systems. The Marshall Space Flight Center was responsible for the design and development of the Skylab hardware and experiment management.

Analysis and simulation of regional subsidence accompanying groundwater abstraction and compaction of susceptible aquifer systems in the USA

USGS Publications Warehouse

Galloway, Devin L.; Sneed, Michelle

2013-01-01

Regional aquifer-system compaction and land subsidence accompanying groundwater abstraction in susceptible aquifer systems in the USA is a challenge for managing groundwater resources and mitigating associated hazards. Developments in the assessment of regional subsidence provide more information to constrain analyses and simulation of aquifer-system compaction. Current popular approaches to simulating vertical aquifer-system deformation (compaction), such as those embodied in the aquitard drainage model and the MODFLOW subsidence packages, have proven useful from the perspective of regional groundwater resources assessment. However, these approaches inadequately address related local-scale hazards—ground ruptures and damages to engineered structures on the land surface arising from tensional stresses and strains accompanying groundwater abstraction. This paper presents a brief overview of the general approaches taken by the U.S. Geological Survey toward understanding aquifer-system compaction and subsidence with regard to a) identifying the affected aquifer systems; b) making regional assessments; c) analyzing the governing processes; and d) simulating historical and future groundwater flow and subsidence conditions. Limitations and shortcomings of these approaches, as well as future challenges also are discussed.

Comprehensive evaluation of compaction of asphalt pavements and development of compaction monitoring system.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2012-04-01

This study aimed to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of compaction of asphalt pavements and : develop software for monitoring field compaction in real time. In the first phase of this study, the researchers : built several test sections that were c...

Overview of AMS (CCSDS Asynchronous Message Service)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Burleigh, Scott

2006-01-01

This viewgraph presentation gives an overview of the Consultative Committee for Space Data Systems (CCSDS) Asynchronous Message Service (AMS). The topics include: 1) Key Features; 2) A single AMS continuum; 3) The AMS Protocol Suite; 4) A multi-continuum venture; 5) Constraining transmissions; 6) Security; 7) Fault Tolerance; 8) Performance of Reference Implementation; 9) AMS vs Multicast (1); 10) AMS vs Multicast (2); 11) RAMS testing exercise; and 12) Results.

Galaxy triplets in Sloan Digital Sky Survey Data Release 7 - II. A connection with compact groups?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Duplancic, Fernanda; O'Mill, Ana Laura; Lambas, Diego G.; Sodré, Laerte; Alonso, Sol

2013-08-01

We analyse a sample of 71 triplets of luminous galaxies derived from the work of O'Mill et al. We compare the properties of triplets and their members with those of control samples of compact groups, the 10 brightest members of rich clusters and galaxies in pairs. The triplets are restricted to have members with spectroscopic redshifts in the range 0.01 ≤ z ≤ 0.14 and absolute r-band luminosities brighter than Mr = -20.5. For these member galaxies, we analyse the stellar mass content, the star formation rates, the Dn(4000) parameter and (Mg - Mr) colour index. Since galaxies in triplets may finally merge in a single system, we analyse different global properties of these systems. We calculate the probability that the properties of galaxies in triplets are strongly correlated. We also study total star formation activity and global colours, and define the triplet compactness as a measure of the percentage of the system total area that is filled by the light of member galaxies. We concentrate in the comparison of our results with those of compact groups to assess how the triplets are a natural extension of these compact systems. Our analysis suggests that triplet galaxy members behave similarly to compact group members and galaxies in rich clusters. We also find that systems comprising three blue, star-forming, young stellar population galaxies (blue triplets) are most probably real systems and not a chance configuration of interloping galaxies. The same holds for triplets composed of three red, non-star-forming galaxies, showing the correlation of galaxy properties in these systems. From the analysis of the triplet as a whole, we conclude that, at a given total stellar mass content, triplets show a total star formation activity and global colours similar to compact groups. However, blue triplets show a high total star formation activity with a lower stellar mass content. From an analysis of the compactness parameter of the systems we find that light is even more concentrated in triplets than in compact groups. We propose that triplets composed of three luminous galaxies, should not be considered as an analogous of galaxy pairs with a third extra member, but rather they are a natural extension of compact groups.

Synthesis and characterization of a novel aminopolycarboxylate complexant for efficient trivalent f-element differentiation: N-butyl-2-acetamide-diethylenetriamine- N, N', N", N"-tetraacetic acid

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

Heathman, Colt R.; Grimes, Travis S.; Jansone-Popova, Santa

The novel metal ion complexant N-butyl-2-acetamide-diethylenetriamine-N,N',N",N"-tetraacetic acid (DTTA-BuA) uses an amide functionalization to increase the total ligand acidity and attain efficient 4f/5f differentiation in low pH conditions. The amide, when located on the diethylenetriamine platform containing four acetate pendant arms maintains the octadentate coordination sphere for all investigated trivalent f-elements. This compact coordination environment inhibits the protonation of LnL- complexes, as indicated by lower K 111 constants relative to the corresponding protonation site of the free ligand. For actinide ions, the enhanced stability of AnL- lowers the K 111 for americium and curium beyond the aptitude of potentiometric detection. Densitymore » functional theory computations indicate the difference in the back-donation ability of Am 3+ and Eu 3+ f-orbitals is mainly responsible for stronger proton affinity of EuL- compared to AmL-. The measured stability constants for the formation of AmL- and CmL- complexes are consistently higher, relative to ML- complexes with lanthanides of similar charge density. When compared with the conventional aminopolycarboxylate diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (DTPA), the modified DTTA-BuA complexant features higher ligand acidity and the important An 3+/Ln 3+ differentiation when deployed on a liquid–liquid distribution platform.« less

A CMOS Front-End With Integrated Magnetoresistive Sensors for Biomolecular Recognition Detection Applications.

PubMed

Costa, Tiago; Cardoso, Filipe A; Germano, Jose; Freitas, Paulo P; Piedade, Moises S

2017-10-01

The development of giant magnetoresistive (GMR) sensors has demonstrated significant advantages in nanomedicine, particularly for ultrasensitive point-of-care diagnostics. To this end, the detection system is required to be compact, portable, and low power consuming at the same time that a maximum signal to noise ratio is maintained. This paper reports a CMOS front-end with integrated magnetoresistive sensors for biomolecular recognition detection applications. Based on the characterization of the GMR sensor's signal and noise, CMOS building blocks (i.e., current source, multiplexers, and preamplifier) were designed targeting a negligible noise when compared with the GMR sensor's noise and a low power consumption. The CMOS front-end was fabricated using AMS [Formula: see text] technology and the magnetoresistive sensors were post-fabricated on top of the CMOS chip with high yield ( [Formula: see text]). Due to its low circuit noise (16 [Formula: see text]) and overall equivalent magnetic noise ([Formula: see text]), the full system was able to detect 250 nm magnetic nanoparticles with a circuit imposed signal-to-noise ratio degradation of only -1.4 dB. Furthermore, the low power consumption (6.5 mW) and small dimensions ([Formula: see text] ) of the presented solution guarantees the portability of the detection system allowing its usage at the point-of-care.

Comparing technical efficiency of farms with an automatic milking system and a conventional milking system.

PubMed

Steeneveld, W; Tauer, L W; Hogeveen, H; Oude Lansink, A G J M

2012-12-01

Changing from a conventional milking system (CMS) to an automatic milking system (AMS) necessitates a new management approach and a corresponding change in labor tasks. Together with labor savings, AMS farms have been found to have higher capital costs, primarily because of higher maintenance costs and depreciation. Therefore, it is hypothesized that AMS farms differ from CMS farms in capital:labor ratio and possibly their technical efficiency, at least during a transition learning period. The current study used actual farm accounting data from dairy farms in the Netherlands with an AMS and a CMS to investigate the empirical substitution of capital for labor in the AMS farms and to determine if the technical efficiency of the AMS farms differed from the CMS farms. The technical efficiency estimates were obtained with data envelopment analysis. The 63 AMS farms and the 337 CMS farms in the data set did not differ in general farm characteristics such as the number of cows, number of hectares, and the amount of milk quota. Farms with AMS have significantly higher capital costs (€12.71 per 100 kg of milk) than CMS farms (€10.10 per 100 kg of milk). Total labor costs and net outputs were not significantly different between AMS and CMS farms. A clear substitution of capital for labor with the adoption of an AMS could not be observed. Although the AMS farms have a slightly lower technical efficiency (0.76) than the CMS farms (0.78), a significant difference in these estimates was not observed. This indicates that the farms were not different in their ability to use inputs (capital, labor, cows, and land) to produce outputs (total farm revenues). The technical efficiency of farms invested in an AMS in 2008 or earlier was not different from the farms invested in 2009 or 2010, indicating that a learning effect during the transition period was not observed. The results indicate that the economic performance of AMS and CMS farms are similar. What these results show is that other than higher capital costs, the use of AMS rather than a CMS does not affect farm efficiency and that the learning costs to use an AMS are not present as measured by any fall in technical efficiency. Copyright © 2012 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Application Research of Quality Control Technology of Asphalt Pavement based on GPS Intelligent

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Min; Gao, Bo; Shang, Fei; Wang, Tao

2017-10-01

Due to the difficulty of steel deck pavement asphalt layer compaction caused by the effect of the flexible supporting system (orthotropic steel deck plate), it is usually hard and difficult to control for the site compactness to reach the design goal. The intelligent compaction technology is based on GPS control technology and real-time acquisition of actual compaction tracks, and then forms a cloud maps of compaction times, which guide the roller operator to do the compaction in accordance with the design requirement to ensure the deck compaction technology and compaction quality. From the actual construction situation of actual bridge and checked data, the intelligent compaction technology is significant in guaranteeing the steel deck asphalt pavement compactness and quality stability.

Quasi-Periodic Oscillations in AM Herculis Binaries -- Cycle 3 Medium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chanmugam, G.

1992-06-01

AM Her variables are close-binary systems in which a white dwarf with a magnetic field of 20-70 MG accretes matter from a companion star. Theoretical studies of magnetically channeled accretion flows in such systems predict that the shock formed near the white dwarf should oscillate with periods of order 0.1-1 sec. Optical high-speed photometry has indeed shown the existence of such rapid, quasi-periodic oscillations in some AM Her binaries, but not in others. We will use HST to obtain UV and optical high-speed photometry of several AM Her systems, in order to explore further the nature of the oscillations, and to extend the search into the UV. This proposal is a followup to an accepted Cycle 2 program. We are proposing it for Cycle 3 in order to complete our survey of the most suitable AM Her systems during this last opportunity for HSP observations.

Reduction Rates for Higher Americium Oxidation States in Nitric Acid

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

Grimes, Travis Shane; Mincher, Bruce Jay; Schmitt, Nicholas C

The stability of hexavalent americium was measured using multiple americium concentrations and nitric acid concentrations after contact with the strong oxidant sodium bismuthate. Contrary to our hypotheses Am(VI) was not reduced faster at higher americium concentrations, and the reduction was only zero-order at short time scales. Attempts to model the reduction kinetics using zero order kinetic models showed Am(VI) reduction in nitric acid is more complex than the autoreduction processes reported by others in perchloric acid. The classical zero-order reduction of Am(VI) was found here only for short times on the order of a few hours. We did show thatmore » the rate of Am(V) production was less than the rate of Am(VI) reduction, indicating that some Am(VI) undergoes two electron-reduction to Am(IV). We also monitored the Am(VI) reduction in contact with the organic diluent dodecane. A direct comparison of these results with those in the absence of the organic diluent showed the reduction rates for Am(VI) were not statistically different for both systems. Additional americium oxidations conducted in the presence of Ce(IV)/Ce(III) ions showed that Am(VI) is reduced without the typical growth of Am(V) observed in the systems sans Ce ion. This was an interesting result which suggests a potential new reduction/oxidation pathway for Am in the presence of Ce; however, these results were very preliminary, and will require additional experiments to understand the mechanism by which this occurs. Overall, these studies have shown that hexavalent americium is fundamentally stable enough in nitric acid to run a separations process. However, the complicated nature of the reduction pathways based on the system components is far from being rigorously understood.« less

Strategy Guideline: Compact Air Distribution Systems

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

Burdick, A.

2013-06-01

This Strategy Guideline discusses the benefits and challenges of using a compact air distribution system to handle the reduced loads and reduced air volume needed to condition the space within an energy efficient home. Traditional systems sized by 'rule of thumb' (i.e., 1 ton of cooling per 400 ft2 of floor space) that 'wash' the exterior walls with conditioned air from floor registers cannot provide appropriate air mixing and moisture removal in low-load homes. A compact air distribution system locates the HVAC equipment centrally with shorter ducts run to interior walls, and ceiling supply outlets throw the air toward themore » exterior walls along the ceiling plane; alternatively, high sidewall supply outlets throw the air toward the exterior walls. Potential drawbacks include resistance from installing contractors or code officials who are unfamiliar with compact air distribution systems, as well as a lack of availability of low-cost high sidewall or ceiling supply outlets to meet the low air volumes with good throw characteristics. The decision criteria for a compact air distribution system must be determined early in the whole-house design process, considering both supply and return air design. However, careful installation of a compact air distribution system can result in lower material costs from smaller equipment, shorter duct runs, and fewer outlets; increased installation efficiencies, including ease of fitting the system into conditioned space; lower loads on a better balanced HVAC system, and overall improved energy efficiency of the home.« less

1E 1048.5 + 5421 - A new 114 minute AM Herculis binary

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Morris, Simon L.; Schmidt, Gary D.; Liebert, James; Gioia, Isabella M.; Maccacaro, Tommaso

1987-01-01

The discovery of a new AM Herculis binary system, found as a serendipitous Einstein X-ray source, is described. Like the previously discovered mass-transfer binaries involving synchronously rotating magnetic white-dwarf primaries, the system exhibits strong circular polarization, X-ray and optical continuum variations, and optical emission lines, all of which seem to be modulated with these binary periods of 114.5 + or - 0.2 minutes. Although all data are not concurrent, the new system appears to possess the highest ratio of F(x)/F(opt) yet found for an AM Her system. The surprising accumulation of AM Her variables with periods near 114 minute is commented on.

Effect of transitioning to automatic milking systems on producers' perceptions of farm management and cow health in the Canadian dairy industry.

PubMed

Tse, C; Barkema, H W; DeVries, T J; Rushen, J; Pajor, E A

2017-03-01

Automatic milking systems (AMS), or milking robots, are becoming increasingly common, but there is little documentation of how AMS have affected farms as a whole and what challenges and benefits producers are experiencing during their transition to AMS. The objective of this national survey was to document the effect of transitioning to AMS on producer perceptions of change in housing, farm management, and cow health. In total, 217 AMS producers were surveyed from 8 Canadian provinces. Median time since transition for respondents was 30 mo. The mean number of lactating cows per robot was 51 cows, with a median of 2 AMS units per farm. Fifty-five percent of producers built a new barn to accommodate the AMS. Changing housing systems was necessary for 47% of producers, not necessary for 50%, and not applicable to 3% (as the AMS farm was their first farm). Cleaning and feeding practices remained the same. Overall, farms increased herd size from a median of 77 to 85 lactating cows with the transition to AMS. After the transition to AMS, 66% of producers changed their health-management practices. Producers reported either a decrease or no change in rate of clinical mastitis. Reports on change in rate of lameness and total bacterial count varied. Conception rate was reported to have increased for 63% of producers. Culling rate was perceived to have stayed the same for 59% of producers. Overall, producers perceived their transitions to AMS as successful. Findings from this project provide a benchmark of the effects of AMS on important aspects of Canadian dairy farming, as well as provide producers, AMS manufacturers, veterinarians, and dairy advisors with more detailed knowledge on what to expect when transitioning to AMS. Copyright © 2017 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Oscillatory ductile compaction dynamics in a cylinder

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Uri, Lina; Dysthe, Dag Kristian; Feder, Jens

2006-09-01

Ductile compaction is common in many natural systems, but the temporal evolution of such systems is rarely studied. We observe surprising oscillations in the weight measured at the bottom of a self-compacting ensemble of ductile grains. The oscillations develop during the first ten hours of the experiment, and usually persist through the length of an experiment (one week). The weight oscillations are connected to the grain-wall contacts, and are directly correlated with the observed strain evolution and the dynamics of grain-wall contacts during the compaction. Here, we present the experimental results and characteristic time constants of the system, and discuss possible reasons for the measured weight oscillations.

Oscillatory ductile compaction dynamics in a cylinder.

PubMed

Uri, Lina; Dysthe, Dag Kristian; Feder, Jens

2006-09-01

Ductile compaction is common in many natural systems, but the temporal evolution of such systems is rarely studied. We observe surprising oscillations in the weight measured at the bottom of a self-compacting ensemble of ductile grains. The oscillations develop during the first ten hours of the experiment, and usually persist through the length of an experiment (one week). The weight oscillations are connected to the grain-wall contacts, and are directly correlated with the observed strain evolution and the dynamics of grain-wall contacts during the compaction. Here, we present the experimental results and characteristic time constants of the system, and discuss possible reasons for the measured weight oscillations.

Copper increases reductive dehalogenation of haloacetamides by zero-valent iron in drinking water: Reduction efficiency and integrated toxicity risk.

PubMed

Chu, Wenhai; Li, Xin; Bond, Tom; Gao, Naiyun; Bin, Xu; Wang, Qiongfang; Ding, Shunke

2016-12-15

The haloacetamides (HAcAms), an emerging class of nitrogen-containing disinfection byproducts (N-DBPs), are highly cytotoxic and genotoxic, and typically occur in treated drinking waters at low μg/L concentrations. Since many drinking distribution and storage systems contain unlined cast iron and copper pipes, reactions of HAcAms with zero-valent iron (ZVI) and metallic copper (Cu) may play a role in determining their fate. Moreover, ZVI and/or Cu are potentially effective HAcAm treatment technologies in drinking water supply and storage systems. This study reports that ZVI alone reduces trichloroacetamide (TCAcAm) to sequentially form dichloroacetamide (DCAcAm) and then monochloroacetamide (MCAcAm), whereas Cu alone does not impact HAcAm concentrations. The addition of Cu to ZVI significantly improved the removal of HAcAms, relative to ZVI alone. TCAcAm and their reduction products (DCAcAm and MCAcAm) were all decreased to below detection limits at a molar ratio of ZVI/Cu of 1:1 after 24 h reaction (ZVI/TCAcAm = 0.18 M/5.30 μM). TCAcAm reduction increased with the decreasing pH from 8.0 to 5.0, but values from an integrated toxic risk assessment were minimised at pH 7.0, due to limited removal MCAcAm under weak acid conditions (pH = 5.0 and 6.0). Higher temperatures (40 °C) promoted the reductive dehalogenation of HAcAms. Bromine was preferentially removed over chlorine, thus brominated HAcAms were more easily reduced than chlorinated HAcAms by ZVI/Cu. Although tribromoacetamide was more easily reduced than TCAcAm during ZVI/Cu reduction, treatment of tribromoacetamide resulted in a higher integrated toxicity risk than TCAcAm, due to the formation of monobromoacetamide (MBAcAm). Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Proceedings of the International Conference on The Performance of Off-Road Vehicles and Machines (8th). Volume 2. Held at Cambridge England, on August 5-11, 1984.

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-08-01

various wheel loads and gecoetries an an aid to vehicle design PO04 299 Flotation tires anc subsurface compaction POMl 300 Tractor power selection...soil copatiml steering computer modelling, vehicle -component design , measuremnt of soil and anow properties and soil bin facilitiesi and vehicle... design . 74 ~ Al i~~s W3 *1oe 9e e1 SALilsasifiLed seCUffiY cLataric*Ye ATWop ’ VA .-I rumo. .. nemraa~sociy m v smuAN vnaaz Yswros 1BR.NM 72 Lym AmI

Insights on the injection mechanisms inferred from AMS fabrics of sand injectites in a turbiditic system, the exemple of Bevon area of the SE Basin (France).

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Robion, Philippe; Mehl, Caroline

2016-04-01

We propose to investigate the set up mechanisms of sands injection in the case of dykes injected in host marls of Aptian-Albian age in the Vocontian basin (SE France). Several models have been proposed for a downward injection of the dyke in the Bevons area and we guess that AMS fabric investigations can be used to infer the flow direction. 144 drill cores distributed on 14 sites were sampled, among which 8 sites in the injectites and 6 sites in the host rocks. The studied dykes are generally of a few decimeters thick and are setting up in both in vertical or oblique position with respect to the subhorizontal bedding of the host rocks. There were sampled from one side to the other in order to track the flow direction by identification of imbricated fabric. Magnetic mineralogy, i.e. unblocking temperature inferred from IRM 3 axes demagnetization, indicates that the ferromagnetics s.l. mineralogy is dominated by an assemblage of magnetite (unblocking temperature Tub=580°C) and pyrrhotite (Tub=325°C). Magnetic susceptibility is low, typical for siliciclastic rocks, ranging from 4x10-5 up to 1.7x10-4 SI. Degree of magnetic anisotropy is likely representative of AMS measurements in sedimentary rocks with weak values, below than 5 %. In marly host rocks magnetic mineralogy is dominated by pyrrhotite associated with magnetite and both the magnetic susceptibility and degree of anisotropy are slightly lower than for injectites. Regarding magnetic fabric axes distribution, despite some dispersion, the results show that minimum axes of AMS (K3) are parallel to the dyke plane, and maximum axes (K1) are roughly in horizontal position. In marly host rocks, the magnetic fabric is related to tectonic shortening. We interpret that the host rocks have recorded the regional tectonic imprint while the magnetic fabric of the injectites are related to early sedimentary processes. The mechanism of set up proposed to explain the magnetic fabric in the Bevon injectites is a step-by-step process of filling the pre-existing fractures with highly fluidized sand and a compaction direction parallel to dyke plane. A late diagenetic cementation affecting the injectites network prevents any further deformation during tectonic inversion.

Insight into the Am-O Phase Equilibria: A Thermodynamic Study Coupling High-Temperature XRD and CALPHAD Modeling.

PubMed

Epifano, Enrica; Guéneau, Christine; Belin, Renaud C; Vauchy, Romain; Lebreton, Florent; Richaud, Jean-Christophe; Joly, Alexis; Valot, Christophe; Martin, Philippe M

2017-07-03

In the frame of minor actinide transmutation, americium can be diluted in UO 2 and (U, Pu)O 2 fuels burned in fast neutron reactors. The first mandatory step to foresee the influence of Am on the in-reactor behavior of transmutation targets or fuel is to have fundamental knowledge of the Am-O binary system and, in particular, of the AmO 2-x phase. In this study, we coupled HT-XRD (high-temperature X-ray diffraction) experiments with CALPHAD thermodynamic modeling to provide new insights into the structural properties and phase equilibria in the AmO 2-x -AmO 1.61+x -Am 2 O 3 domain. Because of this approach, we were able for the first time to assess the relationships between temperature, lattice parameter, and hypostoichiometry for fcc AmO 2-x . We showed the presence of a hyperstoichiometric existence domain for the bcc AmO 1.61+x phase and the absence of a miscibility gap in the fcc AmO 2-x phase, contrary to previous representations of the phase diagram. Finally, with the new experimental data, a new CALPHAD thermodynamic model of the Am-O system was developed, and an improved version of the phase diagram is presented.

Wave maps from Gödel's universe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barletta, Elisabetta; Dragomir, Sorin; Magliaro, Marco

2014-10-01

Using a result by Koch (1988 Trans. Am. Math. Soc. 307 827-41) we realize Gödel's universe G_{α }^{4}=({{{R}}^{4}},{{g}_{α}}) as the total space of a principal {R}-bundle over a strictly pseudo-convex CR manifold M3 and exploit the analogy between {{g}_{Yalpha;}} and Fefferman's metric {{F}_{θ}} (Fefferman 1976 Ann. Math. 103 395-416 104 393-4) to show that for any {R}-invariant wave map Φ of G_{α}^{4} into a Riemannian manifold N, the corresponding base map φ :{{M}^{3}}\\to N is subelliptic harmonic, with respect to a canonical choice of contact form θ on M3. We show that the subelliptic Jacobi operator J_{b}^{φ} of ϕ has a discrete Dirichlet spectrum on any bounded domain D\\subset {{M}^{3}} supporting the Poincaré inequality on \\mathop{W}\\limits^{\\circ }{}_{H}^{1,2}(D,{{φ}^{-1}}TN) and Kondrakov compactness, i.e. compactness of the embedding \\mathop{W}\\limits^{\\circ }{}_{H}^{1,2}(D,{{φ }^{-1}}TN)\\hookrightarrow {{L}^{2}}(D,{{φ}^{-1}}TN). We exhibit an explicit solution π :G_{α}^{4}\\to {{M}^{3}} to the wave map system on G_{α}^{4}, of index in{{d}^{Ω}}(π)\\geqslant 1 for any bounded domain Ω \\subset G_{α}^{4}. Mounoud's distance (Mounoud 2001 Differ. Geom. Appl. 15 47-57) d_{{{G}_{0}}, Ω }^{∞}({{g}_{α }}, {{F}_{θ}}) is bounded below by a constant depending only on the rotation frequency of Gödel's universe, thus giving a measure of the bias of {{g}_{α}} from being Fefferman like in the region Ω \\subset {{{R}}^{4}}.

Effective data compaction algorithm for vector scan EB writing system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ueki, Shinichi; Ashida, Isao; Kawahira, Hiroichi

2001-01-01

We have developed a new mask data compaction algorithm dedicated to vector scan electron beam (EB) writing systems for 0.13 μm device generation. Large mask data size has become a significant problem at mask data processing for which data compaction is an important technique. In our new mask data compaction, 'array' representation and 'cell' representation are used. The mask data format for the EB writing system with vector scan supports these representations. The array representation has a pitch and a number of repetitions in both X and Y direction. The cell representation has a definition of figure group and its reference. The new data compaction method has the following three steps. (1) Search arrays of figures by selecting pitches of array so that a number of figures are included. (2) Find out same arrays that have same repetitive pitch and number of figures. (3) Search cells of figures, where the figures in each cell take identical positional relationship. By this new method for the mask data of a 4M-DRAM block gate layer with peripheral circuits, 202 Mbytes without compaction was highly compacted to 6.7 Mbytes in 20 minutes on a 500 MHz PC.

PTF1 J191905.19+481506.2—A partially eclipsing AM CVn system discovered in the Palomar transient factory

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

Levitan, David; Groot, Paul J.; Prince, Thomas A.

2014-04-20

We report on PTF1 J191905.19+481506.2, a newly discovered, partially eclipsing, outbursting AM CVn system found in the Palomar Transient Factory synoptic survey. This is only the second known eclipsing AM CVn system. We use high-speed photometric observations and phase-resolved spectroscopy to establish an orbital period of 22.4559(3) minutes. We also present a long-term light curve and report on the normal and super-outbursts regularly seen in this system, including a super-outburst recurrence time of 36.8(4) days. We use the presence of the eclipse to place upper and lower limits on the inclination of the system and discuss the number of knownmore » eclipsing AM CVn systems versus what would be expected.« less

Design and evaluation of a miniature laser speckle imaging device to assess gingival health

PubMed Central

Regan, Caitlin; White, Sean M.; Yang, Bruce Y.; Takesh, Thair; Ho, Jessica; Wink, Cherie; Wilder-Smith, Petra; Choi, Bernard

2016-01-01

Abstract. Current methods used to assess gingivitis are qualitative and subjective. We hypothesized that gingival perfusion measurements could provide a quantitative metric of disease severity. We constructed a compact laser speckle imaging (LSI) system that could be mounted in custom-made oral molds. Rigid fixation of the LSI system in the oral cavity enabled measurement of blood flow in the gingiva. In vitro validation performed in controlled flow phantoms demonstrated that the compact LSI system had comparable accuracy and linearity compared to a conventional bench-top LSI setup. In vivo validation demonstrated that the compact LSI system was capable of measuring expected blood flow dynamics during a standard postocclusive reactive hyperemia and that the compact LSI system could be used to measure gingival blood flow repeatedly without significant variation in measured blood flow values (p<0.05). Finally, compact LSI system measurements were collected from the interdental papilla of nine subjects and compared to a clinical assessment of gingival bleeding on probing. A statistically significant correlation (ρ=0.53; p<0.005) was found between these variables, indicating that quantitative gingival perfusion measurements performed using our system may aid in the diagnosis and prognosis of periodontal disease. PMID:27787545

Design and evaluation of a miniature laser speckle imaging device to assess gingival health

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Regan, Caitlin; White, Sean M.; Yang, Bruce Y.; Takesh, Thair; Ho, Jessica; Wink, Cherie; Wilder-Smith, Petra; Choi, Bernard

2016-10-01

Current methods used to assess gingivitis are qualitative and subjective. We hypothesized that gingival perfusion measurements could provide a quantitative metric of disease severity. We constructed a compact laser speckle imaging (LSI) system that could be mounted in custom-made oral molds. Rigid fixation of the LSI system in the oral cavity enabled measurement of blood flow in the gingiva. In vitro validation performed in controlled flow phantoms demonstrated that the compact LSI system had comparable accuracy and linearity compared to a conventional bench-top LSI setup. In vivo validation demonstrated that the compact LSI system was capable of measuring expected blood flow dynamics during a standard postocclusive reactive hyperemia and that the compact LSI system could be used to measure gingival blood flow repeatedly without significant variation in measured blood flow values (p<0.05). Finally, compact LSI system measurements were collected from the interdental papilla of nine subjects and compared to a clinical assessment of gingival bleeding on probing. A statistically significant correlation (ρ=0.53 p<0.005) was found between these variables, indicating that quantitative gingival perfusion measurements performed using our system may aid in the diagnosis and prognosis of periodontal disease.

A Comprehensive Catalog of Galactic Eclipsing Binary Stars with Eccentric Orbits Based on Eclipse Timing Diagrams

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, C.-H.; Kreiner, J. M.; Zakrzewski, B.; Ogłoza, W.; Kim, H.-W.; Jeong, M.-J.

2018-04-01

A comprehensive catalog of 623 galactic eclipsing binary (EB) systems with eccentric orbits is presented with more than 2830 times of minima determined from the archived photometric data by various sky-survey projects and new photometric measurements. The systems are divided into two groups according to whether the individual system has a GCVS name or not. All the systems in both groups are further classified into three categories (D, A, and A+III) on the basis of their eclipse timing diagrams: 453 D systems showing just constantly displaced secondary minima, 139 A systems displaying only apsidal motion (AM), and 31 A+III systems exhibiting both AM and light-time effects. AM parameters for 170 systems (A and A+III systems) are consistently calculated and cataloged with basic information for all systems. Some important statistics for the AM parameters are discussed and compared with those derived for the eccentric EB systems in the Large and Small Magellanic Clouds.

Implementation and assessment of an animal management system for small-animal micro-CT / micro-SPECT imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Holdsworth, David W.; Detombe, Sarah A.; Chiodo, Chris; Fricke, Stanley T.; Drangova, Maria

2011-03-01

Advances in laboratory imaging systems for CT, SPECT, MRI, and PET facilitate routine micro-imaging during pre-clinical investigations. Challenges still arise when dealing with immune-compromised animals, biohazardous agents, and multi-modality imaging. These challenges can be overcome with an appropriate animal management system (AMS), with the capability for supporting and monitoring a rat or mouse during micro-imaging. We report the implementation and assessment of a new AMS system for mice (PRA-3000 / AHS-2750, ASI Instruments, Warren MI), designed to be compatible with a commercial micro-CT / micro-SPECT imaging system (eXplore speCZT, GE Healthcare, London ON). The AMS was assessed under the following criteria: 1) compatibility with the imaging system (i.e. artifact generation, geometric dimensions); 2) compatibility with live animals (i.e. positioning, temperature regulation, anesthetic supply); 3) monitoring capabilities (i.e. rectal temperature, respiratory and cardiac monitoring); 4) stability of co-registration; and 5) containment. Micro-CT scans performed using a standardized live-animal protocol (90 kVp, 40 mA, 900 views, 16 ms per view) exhibited low noise (+/-19 HU) and acceptable artifact from high-density components within the AMS (e.g. ECG pad contacts). Live mice were imaged repeatedly (with removal and replacement of the AMS) and spatial registration was found to be stable to within +/-0.07 mm. All animals tolerated enclosure within the AMS for extended periods (i.e. > one hour) without distress, based on continuous recordings of rectal temperature, ECG waveform and respiratory rate. A sealed AMS system extends the capability of a conventional micro-imaging system to include immune-compromised and biosafety level 2 mouse-imaging protocols.

Powder compaction in systems of bimodal distribution

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chattopadhyay, A. K.; Whittemore, O. J., Jr.

1973-01-01

The compaction of mixtures involving different particle sizes is discussed. The various stages of the compaction process include the rearrangement of particles, the filling of the interstices of the large particles by the smaller ones, and the change in particle size and shape upon further densification through the application of pressure. Experimental approaches and equipment used for compacting material are discussed together with the theoretical relations of the compacting process.

Ultra Compact Optical Pickup with Integrated Optical System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nakata, Hideki; Nagata, Takayuki; Tomita, Hironori

2006-08-01

Smaller and thinner optical pickups are needed for portable audio-visual (AV) products and notebook personal computers (PCs). We have newly developed an ultra compact recordable optical pickup for Mini Disc (MD) that measures less than 4 mm from the disc surface to the bottom of the optical pickup, making the optical system markedly compact. We have integrated all the optical components into an objective lens actuator moving unit, while fully satisfying recording and playback performance requirements. In this paper, we propose an ultra compact optical pickup applicable to portable MD recorders.

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

Kim, Young Jin

The PowerPoint presentation focused on research goals, specific information about the atomic magnetometer, response and resolution factors of the SERF magnetometer, FC+AM systems, tests of field transfer and resolution on FC, gradient cancellation, testing of AM performance, ideas for a multi-channel AM, including preliminary sensitivity testing, and a description of a 6 channel DAQ system. A few ideas for future work ended the presentation.

MODFLOW-2000 Ground-Water Model--User Guide to the Subsidence and Aquifer-System Compaction (SUB) Package

DTIC Science & Technology

2003-01-01

compaction and water -level changes (Epstein, 1987 ; Hanson, 1989). More recent efforts have focused on incorporating subsidence calculations in widely...Horizontal aquifer movement in a Theis-Thiem confined system: Water Resources Research, v. 30, no. 4, p. 953–964. Heywood, C.E., 1997, Piezometric ...U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR U.S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY MODFLOW-2000 Ground- Water Model—User Guide to the Subsidence and Aquifer-System Compaction

Adaptive Multi-scale PHM for Robotic Assembly Processes

PubMed Central

Choo, Benjamin Y.; Beling, Peter A.; LaViers, Amy E.; Marvel, Jeremy A.; Weiss, Brian A.

2017-01-01

Adaptive multiscale prognostics and health management (AM-PHM) is a methodology designed to support PHM in smart manufacturing systems. As a rule, PHM information is not used in high-level decision-making in manufacturing systems. AM-PHM leverages and integrates component-level PHM information with hierarchical relationships across the component, machine, work cell, and production line levels in a manufacturing system. The AM-PHM methodology enables the creation of actionable prognostic and diagnostic intelligence up and down the manufacturing process hierarchy. Decisions are made with the knowledge of the current and projected health state of the system at decision points along the nodes of the hierarchical structure. A description of the AM-PHM methodology with a simulated canonical robotic assembly process is presented. PMID:28664161

The Number Density of Quiescent Compact Galaxies at Intermediate Redshift

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Damjanov, Ivana; Hwang, Ho Seong; Geller, Margaret J.; Chilingarian, Igor

2014-09-01

Massive compact systems at 0.2 < z < 0.6 are the missing link between the predominantly compact population of massive quiescent galaxies at high redshift and their analogs and relics in the local volume. The evolution in number density of these extreme objects over cosmic time is the crucial constraining factor for the models of massive galaxy assembly. We select a large sample of ~200 intermediate-redshift massive compacts from the Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey (BOSS) spectroscopy by identifying point-like Sloan Digital Sky Survey photometric sources with spectroscopic signatures of evolved redshifted galaxies. A subset of our targets have publicly available high-resolution ground-based images that we use to augment the dynamical and stellar population properties of these systems by their structural parameters. We confirm that all BOSS compact candidates are as compact as their high-redshift massive counterparts and less than half the size of similarly massive systems at z ~ 0. We use the completeness-corrected numbers of BOSS compacts to compute lower limits on their number densities in narrow redshift bins spanning the range of our sample. The abundance of extremely dense quiescent galaxies at 0.2 < z < 0.6 is in excellent agreement with the number densities of these systems at high redshift. Our lower limits support the models of massive galaxy assembly through a series of minor mergers over the redshift range 0 < z < 2.

A new AMS facility in Caserta/Italy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Terrasi, F.; Rogalla, D.; De Cesare, N.; D'Onofrio, A.; Lubritto, C.; Marzaioli, F.; Passariello, I.; Rubino, M.; Sabbarese, C.; Casa, G.; Palmieri, A.; Gialanella, L.; Imbriani, G.; Roca, V.; Romano, M.; Sundquist, M.; Loger, R.

2007-06-01

A new AMS system has been installed at Center for Isotopic Research on Cultural and Environmental Heritage (CIRCE) in Caserta/Italy. It was built by National Electrostatics Corp. Middleton, WI/USA, and arrived at CIRCE in the middle of January 2005; the installation and the acceptance tests were completed at the end of February 2005. At first, the system is intended for Radiocarbon AMS; for future Al and Be AMS only minor upgrades are needed and the magnets are designed to bend heavy isotopes like Uranium. Concerning Radiocarbon AMS, the first measurements of unknown samples, prepared in the internal preparation laboratory, already yielded results of high precision and 14C dating is in full swing.

35-We polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell system for notebook computer using a compact fuel processor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Son, In-Hyuk; Shin, Woo-Cheol; Lee, Yong-Kul; Lee, Sung-Chul; Ahn, Jin-Gu; Han, Sang-Il; kweon, Ho-Jin; Kim, Ju-Yong; Kim, Moon-Chan; Park, Jun-Yong

A polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) system is developed to power a notebook computer. The system consists of a compact methanol-reforming system with a CO preferential oxidation unit, a 16-cell PEMFC stack, and a control unit for the management of the system with a d.c.-d.c. converter. The compact fuel-processor system (260 cm 3) generates about 1.2 L min -1 of reformate, which corresponds to 35 We, with a low CO concentration (<30 ppm, typically 0 ppm), and is thus proven to be capable of being targetted at notebook computers.

Algebraic Bethe ansatz for U(1) invariant integrable models: Compact and non-compact applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martins, M. J.; Melo, C. S.

2009-10-01

We apply the algebraic Bethe ansatz developed in our previous paper [C.S. Melo, M.J. Martins, Nucl. Phys. B 806 (2009) 567] to three different families of U(1) integrable vertex models with arbitrary N bond states. These statistical mechanics systems are based on the higher spin representations of the quantum group U[SU(2)] for both generic and non-generic values of q as well as on the non-compact discrete representation of the SL(2,R) algebra. We present for all these models the explicit expressions for both the on-shell and the off-shell properties associated to the respective transfer matrices eigenvalue problems. The amplitudes governing the vectors not parallel to the Bethe states are shown to factorize in terms of elementary building blocks functions. The results for the non-compact SL(2,R) model are argued to be derived from those obtained for the compact systems by taking suitable N→∞ limits. This permits us to study the properties of the non-compact SL(2,R) model starting from systems with finite degrees of freedom.

3D printed drug delivery and testing systems - a passing fad or the future?

PubMed

Lim, Seng Han; Kathuria, Himanshu; Tan, Justin Jia Yao; Kang, Lifeng

2018-05-18

The US Food and Drug Administration approval of the first 3D printed tablet in 2015 has ignited growing interest in 3D printing, or additive manufacturing (AM), for drug delivery and testing systems. Beyond just a novel method for rapid prototyping, AM provides key advantages over traditional manufacturing of drug delivery and testing systems. These includes the ability to fabricate complex geometries to achieve variable drug release kinetics; ease of personalising pharmacotherapy for patient and lowering the cost for fabricating personalised dosages. Furthermore, AM allows fabrication of complex and micron-sized tissue scaffolds and models for drug testing systems that closely resemble in vivo conditions. However, there are several limitations such as regulatory concerns that may impede the progression to market. Here, we provide an overview of the advantages of AM drug delivery and testing, as compared to traditional manufacturing techniques. Also, we discuss the key challenges and future directions for AM enabled pharmaceutical applications. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Analysis of Fringe Field Formed Inside LDA Measurement Volume Using Compact Two Hololens Imaging Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghosh, Abhijit; Nirala, A. K.; Yadav, H. L.

2018-03-01

We have designed and fabricated four LDA optical setups consisting of aberration compensated four different compact two hololens imaging systems. We have experimentally investigated and realized a hololens recording geometry which is interferogram of converging spherical wavefront with mutually coherent planar wavefront. Proposed real time monitoring and actual fringe field analysis techniques allow complete characterizations of fringes formed at measurement volume and permit to evaluate beam quality, alignment and fringe uniformity with greater precision. After experimentally analyzing the fringes formed at measurement volume by all four imaging systems, it is found that fringes obtained using compact two hololens imaging systems get improved both qualitatively and quantitatively compared to that obtained using conventional imaging system. Results indicate qualitative improvement of non-uniformity in fringe thickness and micro intensity variations perpendicular to the fringes, and quantitative improvement of 39.25% in overall average normalized standard deviations of fringe width formed by compact two hololens imaging systems compare to that of conventional imaging system.

Microbial identification system for Space Station Freedom

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brown, Harlan D.; Scarlett, Janie B.; Skweres, Joyce A.; Fortune, Russell L.; Staples, John L.; Pierson, Duane L.

1989-01-01

The Environmental Health System (EHS) and Health Maintenance Facility (HMF) on Space Station Freedom will require a comprehensive microbiology capability. This requirement entails the development of an automated system to perform microbial identifications on isolates from a variety of environmental and clinical sources and, when required, to perform antimicrobial sensitivity testing. The unit currently undergoing development and testing is the Automated Microbiology System II (AMS II) built by Vitek Systems, Inc. The AMS II has successfully completed 12 months of laboratory testing and evaluation for compatibility with microgravity operation. The AMS II is a promising technology for use on Space Station Freedom.

Complex-envelope alternating-direction-implicit FDTD method for simulating active photonic devices with semiconductor/solid-state media.

PubMed

Singh, Gurpreet; Ravi, Koustuban; Wang, Qian; Ho, Seng-Tiong

2012-06-15

A complex-envelope (CE) alternating-direction-implicit (ADI) finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) approach to treat light-matter interaction self-consistently with electromagnetic field evolution for efficient simulations of active photonic devices is presented for the first time (to our best knowledge). The active medium (AM) is modeled using an efficient multilevel system of carrier rate equations to yield the correct carrier distributions, suitable for modeling semiconductor/solid-state media accurately. To include the AM in the CE-ADI-FDTD method, a first-order differential system involving CE fields in the AM is first set up. The system matrix that includes AM parameters is then split into two time-dependent submatrices that are then used in an efficient ADI splitting formula. The proposed CE-ADI-FDTD approach with AM takes 22% of the time as the approach of the corresponding explicit FDTD, as validated by semiconductor microdisk laser simulations.

Myostatin propeptide mutation of the hypermuscular Compact mice decreases the formation of myostatin and improves insulin sensitivity.

PubMed

Kocsis, Tamas; Trencsenyi, Gyorgy; Szabo, Kitti; Baan, Julia Aliz; Muller, Geza; Mendler, Luca; Garai, Ildiko; Reinauer, Hans; Deak, Ferenc; Dux, Laszlo; Keller-Pinter, Aniko

2017-03-01

The TGFβ family member myostatin (growth/differentiation factor-8) is a negative regulator of skeletal muscle growth. The hypermuscular Compact mice carry the 12-bp Mstn(Cmpt-dl1Abc) deletion in the sequence encoding the propeptide region of the precursor promyostatin, and additional modifier genes of the Compact genetic background contribute to determine the full expression of the phenotype. In this study, by using mice strains carrying mutant or wild-type myostatin alleles with the Compact genetic background and nonmutant myostatin with the wild-type background, we studied separately the effect of the Mstn(Cmpt-dl1Abc) mutation or the Compact genetic background on morphology, metabolism, and signaling. We show that both the Compact myostatin mutation and Compact genetic background account for determination of skeletal muscle size. Despite the increased musculature of Compact s, the absolute size of heart and kidney is not influenced by myostatin mutation; however, the Compact genetic background increases them. Both Compact myostatin and genetic background exhibit systemic metabolic effects. The Compact mutation decreases adiposity and improves whole body glucose uptake, insulin sensitivity, and 18 FDG uptake of skeletal muscle and white adipose tissue, whereas the Compact genetic background has the opposite effect. Importantly, the mutation does not prevent the formation of mature myostatin; however, a decrease in myostatin level was observed, leading to altered activation of Smad2, Smad1/5/8, and Akt, and an increased level of p-AS160, a Rab-GTPase-activating protein responsible for GLUT4 translocation. Based on our analysis, the Compact genetic background strengthens the effect of myostatin mutation on muscle mass, but those can compensate for each other when systemic metabolic effects are compared. Copyright © 2017 the American Physiological Society.

Alignment monitoring system for ASTRO-H

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grandmont, Frédéric; Dupont, Fabien; Moreau, Louis; Larouche, Martin; Bibeau, Louis-Philippe; Laplante, Sylvio

2017-11-01

High Energy Astrophysics (HEA) encompasses a broad range of astrophysical science, with sources that include stars and stellar clusters, compact objects (black holes, neutron stars, and white dwarfs), supernova remnants, the interstellar medium, galaxies and clusters of galaxies, Active Galactic Nuclei (AGN), and gamma ray bursters, as well as a variety of fundamental physical processes. The physics involved includes extremes of gravity, density and magnetic field and is often inaccessible via any other waveband. HEA investigates and answers crucial questions in all fields of contemporary astrophysics. Unlike the focusing of radio and optical light, X-rays are brought to focus through shallow, grazing incident angles. The analogy of skimming a stone across a pond is appropriate in describing how X-rays are focused. The higher the energy of the X-ray photon the shallower the incident angle must be, thereby introducing the requirement of longer focal lengths for focusing high-energy X-rays (E > 10 keV). This technical challenge has hindered scientific advancement in the high-energy regime, while at lower X-ray energies the community has prospered immensely with spectacular data from focusing observatories like XMM-Newton, Chandra, and Suzaku. Now, with ASTRO-H, the community will reap similar rewards from the tremendous improvement in spatial and spectral resolution at high energies. ASTRO-H is a JAXA mission. More information can be found on the ASTRO-H web site [1]. Because of the grazing-angle optics, high-energy X-ray instruments have a long focal length. The Hard X-ray Imager (HXI) of ASTRO-H has its detector housed in a boom that will extend by about 6 m in orbit so that a focal length of 12 m can be achieved for that instrument. This long structure will inevitably oscillate and flex, especially when passing across the orbital day/night boundary. In order to retain the essential imaging resolution, it is important that the boom has a metrology system that measures this flexion in order to allow post-acquisition compensation in generating the science images. In the current paper, we describe a possible Alignment Monitoring System (AMS) to measure in real time the relative position of the boom. The AMS will be an important element to guaranty that the ASTRO-H observatory will meet its performance requirements. The Canadian Space Agency has the intention of providing the AMS to the ASTRO-H mission. The current paper reports a study that was conducted to support that intention.

A Compact, Portable, Reduced-Cost, Gamma Ray Spectroscopic System for Nuclear Verification Final Report CRADA No. TSB-1551-98

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

Lavietes, A.; Kalkhoran, N.

The overall goal of this project was to demonstrate a compact gamma-ray spectroscopic system with better energy resolution and lower costs than scintillator-based detector systems for uranium enrichment analysis applications.

Artificial Muscle (AM) Cilia Array for Underwater Systems

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-12-15

structures, including cilia-like structures. Specifically, a custom 3D printer was created that utilizes custom-made Nafion filament for 30 printing of custom... printing ) of IPMC material to create custom-shaped AM structures, including cilia-like structures. Various custom-shaped AM structures were fabricated via...integrating square cross-section IPMC actuators with a printed circuit board power delivery system. IV. Concise Accomplishments Performance

Soil compaction associated with cut-to-length and whole-tree harvesting of a coniferous forest

Treesearch

Sang-Kyun Han; Han Han-Sup; Deborah Page-Dumroese; Leonard R. Johnson

2009-01-01

The degree and extent of soil compaction, which may reduce productivity of forest soils, is believed to vary by the type of harvesting system, and a field-based study was conducted to compare soil compaction from cut-to-length (CTL) and whole-tree (WT) harvesting operations. The CTL harvesting system used less area to transport logs to the landings than did the WT...

Compact Full-Field Ion Detector System for SmallSats Beyond LEO

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wrbanek, John D.; Wrbanek, Susan Y.; Fralick, Gustave C.; Clark, Pamela E.; McNeil, Roger R.

2014-01-01

NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) is applying its expertise and facilities in harsh environment instrumentation to develop a Compact Full-Field Ion Detector System (CFIDS). The CFIDS is designed to be an extremely compact, low cost instrument, capable of being flown on a wide variety of deep space platforms, to provide multi-directional, comprehensive (composition, velocity, and direction) in-situ measurements of heavy ions in space plasma environments.

Compact Buried Ducts in a Hot-Humid Climate House

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

Mallay, D.

2016-01-01

A system of compact, buried ducts provides a high-performance and cost-effective solution for delivering conditioned air throughout the building. This report outlines research activities that are expected to facilitate adoption of compact buried duct systems by builders. The results of this research would be scalable to many new house designs in most climates and markets, leading to wider industry acceptance and building code and energy program approval.

Compact and low-cost THz QTDS system.

PubMed

Probst, Thorsten; Rehn, Arno; Koch, Martin

2015-08-24

We present a terahertz quasi time domain spectroscopy (QTDS) system setup which is improved regarding cost and compactness. The diode laser is mounted directly onto the optical delay line, making the optical setup more compact. The system is operated using a Raspberry Pi and an additional sound card. This combination replaces the desktop/laptop computer, the lock-in-amplifier, the stage controller and the signal generator. We examined not only a commercially available stepper motor driven delay line, but also the repurposed internal mechanics from a DVD drive. We characterize the performance of the new system concept.

High-speed photometry of Gaia14aae: an eclipsing AM CVn that challenges formation models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Green, M. J.; Marsh, T. R.; Steeghs, D. T. H.; Kupfer, T.; Ashley, R. P.; Bloemen, S.; Breedt, E.; Campbell, H. C.; Chakpor, A.; Copperwheat, C. M.; Dhillon, V. S.; Hallinan, G.; Hardy, L. K.; Hermes, J. J.; Kerry, P.; Littlefair, S. P.; Milburn, J.; Parsons, S. G.; Prasert, N.; van Roestel, J.; Sahman, D. I.; Singh, N.

2018-05-01

AM CVn-type systems are ultracompact, hydrogen-deficient accreting binaries with degenerate or semidegenerate donors. The evolutionary history of these systems can be explored by constraining the properties of their donor stars. We present high-speed photometry of Gaia14aae, an AM CVn with a binary period of 49. 7 min and the first AM CVn in which the central white dwarf is fully eclipsed by the donor star. Modelling of the light curves of this system allows for the most precise measurement to date of the donor mass of an AM CVn, and relies only on geometric and well-tested physical assumptions. We find a mass ratio q = M2/M1 = 0.0287 ± 0.0020 and masses M1 = 0.87 ± 0.02 M⊙ and M2 = 0.0250 ± 0.0013 M⊙. We compare these properties to the three proposed channels for AM CVn formation. Our measured donor mass and radius do not fit with the contraction that is predicted for AM CVn donors descended from white dwarfs or helium stars at long orbital periods. The donor properties we measure fall in a region of parameter space in which systems evolved from hydrogen-dominated cataclysmic variables are expected, but such systems should show spectroscopic hydrogen, which is not seen in Gaia14aae. The evolutionary history of this system is therefore not clear. We consider a helium-burning star or an evolved cataclysmic variable to be the most likely progenitors, but both models require additional processes and/or fine-tuning to fit the data. Additionally, we calculate an updated ephemeris which corrects for an anomalous time measurement in the previously published ephemeris.

Ultra-Compact Accelerator Technologies for Application in Nuclear Techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sampayan, S.; Caporaso, G.; Chen, Y.-J.; Carazo, V.; Falabella, S.; Guethlein, G.; Guse, S.; Harris, J. R.; Hawkins, S.; Holmes, C.; Krogh, M.; Nelson, S.; Paul, A. C.; Pearson, D.; Poole, B.; Schmidt, R.; Sanders, D.; Selenes, K.; Sitaraman, S.; Sullivan, J.; Wang, L.; Watson, J.

2009-12-01

We report on compact accelerator technology development for potential use as a pulsed neutron source quantitative post verifier. The technology is derived from our on-going compact accelerator technology development program for radiography under the US Department of Energy and for a clinic sized compact proton therapy systems under an industry sponsored Cooperative Research and Development Agreement. The accelerator technique relies on the synchronous discharge of a prompt pulse generating stacked transmission line structure with the beam transit. The goal of this technology is to achieve ˜10 MV/m gradients for 10 s of nanoseconds pulses and ˜100 MV/m gradients for ˜1 ns systems. As a post verifier for supplementing existing x-ray equipment, this system can remain in a charged, stand-by state with little or no energy consumption. We describe the progress of our overall component development effort with the multilayer dielectric wall insulators (i.e., the accelerator wall), compact power supply technology, kHz repetition-rate surface flashover ion sources, and the prompt pulse generation system consisting of wide-bandgap switches and high performance dielectric materials.

Loading mode dependent effective properties of octet-truss lattice structures using 3D-printing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Challapalli, Adithya

Cellular materials, often called lattice materials, are increasingly receiving attention for their ultralight structures with high specific strength, excellent impact absorption, acoustic insulation, heat dissipation media and compact heat exchangers. In alignment with emerging additive manufacturing (AM) technology, realization of the structural applications of the lattice materials appears to be becoming faster. Considering the direction dependent material properties of the products with AM, by directionally dependent printing resolution, effective moduli of lattice structures appear to be directionally dependent. In this paper, a constitutive model of a lattice structure, which is an octet-truss with a base material having an orthotropic material property considering AM is developed. In a case study, polyjet based 3D printing material having an orthotropic property with a 9% difference in the principal direction provides difference in the axial and shear moduli in the octet-truss by 2.3 and 4.6%. Experimental validation for the effective properties of a 3D printed octet-truss is done for uniaxial tension and compression test. The theoretical value based on the micro-buckling of truss member are used to estimate the failure strength. Modulus value appears a little overestimate compared with the experiment. Finite element (FE) simulations for uniaxial compression and tension of octettruss lattice materials are conducted. New effective properties for the octet-truss lattice structure are developed considering the observed behavior of the octet-truss structure under macroscopic compression and tension trough simulations.

The ambient aerosol characterization during the prescribed bushfire season in Brisbane 2013.

PubMed

Milic, A; Miljevic, B; Alroe, J; Mallet, M; Canonaco, F; Prevot, A S H; Ristovski, Z D

2016-08-01

Prescribed burnings are conducted in Queensland each year from August until November aiming to decrease the impact of bushfire hazards and maintain the health of vegetation. This study reports chemical characteristics of the ambient aerosol, with a focus on source apportionment of the organic aerosol (OA) fraction, during the prescribed biomass burning (BB) season in Brisbane 2013. All measurements were conducted within the International Laboratory for Air Quality and Health (ILAQH) located in Brisbane's Central Business District. Chemical composition, degree of ageing and the influence of BB emission on the air quality of central Brisbane were characterized using a compact Time of Flight Aerosol Mass Spectrometer (cToF-AMS). AMS loadings were dominated by OA (64%), followed by, sulfate (17%), ammonium (14%) and nitrates (5%). Source apportionment was applied on the AMS OA mass spectra via the multilinear engine solver (ME-2) implementation within the recently developed Source Finder (SoFi) interface. Six factors were extracted including hydrocarbon-like OA (HOA), cooking-related OA (COA), biomass burning OA (BBOA), low-volatility oxygenated OA (LV-OOA), semivolatile oxygenated OA (SV-OOA), and nitrogen-enriched OA (NOA). The aerosol fraction that was attributed to BB factor was 9%, on average over the sampling period. The high proportion of oxygenated OA (72%), typically representing aged emissions, could possess a fraction of oxygenated species transfored from BB components on their way to the sampling site. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Interrogating heterogeneous compaction of meteoritic material at the mesoscale using analog experiments and numerical models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Derrick, James; Rutherford, Michael; Davison, Thomas; Chapman, David; Eakins, Daniel; Collins, Gareth

2017-06-01

Chondritic meteorites were lithified during solar system formation by compaction of bimodal mixtures of mm-scale, spherical, solidified melt droplets (chondrules) surrounded by a porous matrix of much finer grained dust. A possible compaction mechanism is low-velocity planetesimal collisions, which were common in the early solar system. Mesoscale numerical simulations of such impacts indicate heterogeneous compaction, with large porosity and temperature variations over sub-mm scales in the matrix and chondrules largely unaffected. In particular, compaction and heating are enhanced in front of the chondrule and suppressed in its wake. Such observations may provide a new tool for interpreting evidence for impact in meteorites. Here we present impact experiments that replicate compaction surrounding an individual chondrule using analog materials: Soda Lime glass beads/rods and 70% porous silica powder matrix (Sipernat). Real-time, X-ray imaging of the experiments, combined with mesoscale modelling, provides experimental confirmation of anisotropic matrix compaction surrounding individual chondrules, aligned with the shock direction. JGD is supported by EPSRC studentship funding; GSC are supported by STFC Grant ST/N000803/1.

47 CFR 73.68 - Sampling systems for antenna monitors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 4 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Sampling systems for antenna monitors. 73.68... RADIO BROADCAST SERVICES AM Broadcast Stations § 73.68 Sampling systems for antenna monitors. (a) Each AM station permittee authorized to construct a new directional antenna system which will be subject...

47 CFR 73.68 - Sampling systems for antenna monitors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 4 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Sampling systems for antenna monitors. 73.68... RADIO BROADCAST SERVICES AM Broadcast Stations § 73.68 Sampling systems for antenna monitors. (a) Each AM station permittee authorized to construct a new directional antenna system which will be subject...

47 CFR 73.68 - Sampling systems for antenna monitors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Sampling systems for antenna monitors. 73.68... RADIO BROADCAST SERVICES AM Broadcast Stations § 73.68 Sampling systems for antenna monitors. (a) Each AM station permittee authorized to construct a new directional antenna system which will be subject...

47 CFR 73.68 - Sampling systems for antenna monitors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 4 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Sampling systems for antenna monitors. 73.68... RADIO BROADCAST SERVICES AM Broadcast Stations § 73.68 Sampling systems for antenna monitors. (a) Each AM station permittee authorized to construct a new directional antenna system which will be subject...

47 CFR 73.68 - Sampling systems for antenna monitors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 4 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Sampling systems for antenna monitors. 73.68... RADIO BROADCAST SERVICES AM Broadcast Stations § 73.68 Sampling systems for antenna monitors. (a) Each AM station permittee authorized to construct a new directional antenna system which will be subject...

Flattening Property and the Existence of Global Attractors in Banach Space

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aris, Naimah; Maharani, Sitti; Jusmawati, Massalesse; Nurwahyu, Budi

2018-03-01

This paper analyses the existence of global attractor in infinite dimensional system using flattening property. The earlier stage we show the existence of the global attractor in complete metric space by using concept of the ω-limit compact concept with measure of non-compactness methods. Then we show that the ω-limit compact concept is equivalent with the flattening property in Banach space. If we can prove there exist an absorbing set in the system and the flattening property holds, then the global attractor exist in the system.

An X-Ray Survey for Polar CAP Qpos in AM Herculis Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wood, Kent

Five AM Herculis binary systems show an optical QPO that is known to be associated with magentically channeled polar cap accretion. Hard X-ray QPOs are predicted by the time-depndent hydrodynamic models. We propose to search selected AM Her systems for polar cap X-ray QPOs using the XTE PCA. Because of its large collecting area, the PCA is the only instrument that can do this job. No other accreting objects provide comparable high-quality observational diagnostics on the accretion flow. The detailed understanding of flow geometry, shock heating, ion-electron energy exchange, accretion column structure, and emission and radiative transfer mechanisms that go to make up the picture of AM Her accretion needs to be tested against X-ray timing information.

An inexpensive compact automatic camera system for wildlife research

Treesearch

William R. Danielson; Richard M. DeGraaf; Todd K. Fuller

1996-01-01

This paper describes the design, conversion, and deployment of a reliable, compact, automatic multiple-exposure photographic system that was used to photograph nest predation events. This system may be the most versatile yet described in the literature because of its simplicity, portability, and dependability. The system was very reliable because it was designed around...

An alternative explanation for the collapse of unfolded proteins in an aqueous mixture of urea and guanidinium chloride

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Graziano, Giuseppe

2014-09-01

Molecular dynamics simulations have shown that a totally unfolded protein in aqueous 8 M urea undergoes a collapse transition on replacing urea molecules by guanidinium chloride, GdmCl, assuming a compact conformation in 4 M urea + 4 M GdmCl [J. Am. Chem. Soc. 134 (2012) 18266]. This is unexpected because GdmCl is a denaturant stronger than urea. It is shown that such collapse can originate from an increase in the magnitude of the solvent-excluded volume effect due the high density of urea + GdmCl mixtures, coupled to their low water number density that pushes denaturant molecules toward the protein surface.

Advanced Solid-State Lasers/Compact Blue-Green Lasers. 1993 Technical Digest Series. Volume 2. Organization of the 1993 Photonics Science Topical Meetings held in New Orleans, Louisiana on 1 - 4 February 1993

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-02-04

memories is presented. (p. 400) JWC2 Pairwlse visible to UV up- tions. Periodic domain-inverted structure has conversion In Ho=÷ and Tm’" doped potential...Sydney. Nd:W. aM5itoL 40 1A 18 led &: 400 1C ID •:•• •e,,,- • ,, Figure 1; Geometries for solid collectors with 1, 2 or 3 pump sources. Figure 2...Although the output efficiencies of early devices were quite low, resonant enhancement of the signal input inside the laser cavity has recently led to

A dynamic fuzzy genetic algorithm for natural image segmentation using adaptive mean shift

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arfan Jaffar, M.

2017-01-01

In this paper, a colour image segmentation approach based on hybridisation of adaptive mean shift (AMS), fuzzy c-mean and genetic algorithms (GAs) is presented. Image segmentation is the perceptual faction of pixels based on some likeness measure. GA with fuzzy behaviour is adapted to maximise the fuzzy separation and minimise the global compactness among the clusters or segments in spatial fuzzy c-mean (sFCM). It adds diversity to the search process to find the global optima. A simple fusion method has been used to combine the clusters to overcome the problem of over segmentation. The results show that our technique outperforms state-of-the-art methods.

HERA: A New Platform for Embedding Agents in Heterogeneous Wireless Sensor Networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alonso, Ricardo S.; de Paz, Juan F.; García, Óscar; Gil, Óscar; González, Angélica

Ambient Intelligence (AmI) based systems require the development of innovative solutions that integrate distributed intelligent systems with context-aware technologies. In this sense, Multi-Agent Systems (MAS) and Wireless Sensor Networks (WSN) are two key technologies for developing distributed systems based on AmI scenarios. This paper presents the new HERA (Hardware-Embedded Reactive Agents) platform, that allows using dynamic and self-adaptable heterogeneous WSNs on which agents are directly embedded on the wireless nodes This approach facilitates the inclusion of context-aware capabilities in AmI systems to gather data from their surrounding environments, achieving a higher level of ubiquitous and pervasive computing.

Overview Of The U.S. Cotton Classification System and a Comparison of the U.S. and Chinese Cotton Classing Parameters

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

All U.S. cotton bales are classed by the Cotton Division of the Agriculture Marketing Service (AMS) of the United States Department of Agriculture. Since 1991, more than 220 million bales have been tested by AMS. AMS has 12 classing offices with 290 High Volume Instruments (HVI). AMS has various ...

Compact wearable dual-mode imaging system for real-time fluorescence image-guided surgery.

PubMed

Zhu, Nan; Huang, Chih-Yu; Mondal, Suman; Gao, Shengkui; Huang, Chongyuan; Gruev, Viktor; Achilefu, Samuel; Liang, Rongguang

2015-09-01

A wearable all-plastic imaging system for real-time fluorescence image-guided surgery is presented. The compact size of the system is especially suitable for applications in the operating room. The system consists of a dual-mode imaging system, see-through goggle, autofocusing, and auto-contrast tuning modules. The paper will discuss the system design and demonstrate the system performance.

Non-destructive system to evaluate critical properties of asphalt compaction : [research brief].

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-12-01

The Wisconsin Highway Research Program sponsored a two-stage investigation to develop a non-destructive system to evaluate critical compaction properties and characteristics of asphalt pavements during the densification process. Stage One activities ...

Multiphoton microscopy system with a compact fiber-based femtosecond-pulse laser and handheld probe

PubMed Central

Liu, Gangjun; Kieu, Khanh; Wise, Frank W.; Chen, Zhongping

2012-01-01

We report on the development of a compact multiphoton microscopy (MPM) system that integrates a compact and robust fiber laser with a miniature probe. The all normal dispersion fiber femtosecond laser has a central wavelength of 1.06 μm, pulse width of 125 fs and average power of more than 1 W. A double cladding photonic crystal fiber was used to deliver the excitation beam and to collect the two-photon signal. The hand-held probe included galvanometer-based mirror scanners, relay lenses and a focusing lens. The packaged probe had a diameter of 16 mm. Second harmonic generation (SHG) images and two-photon excited fluorescence (TPEF) images of biological tissues were demonstrated using the system. MPM images of different biological tissues acquired by the compact system which integrates an FBFP laser, an DCPCF and a miniature handheld probe. PMID:20635426

Soil compaction vulnerability at Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, Arizona

USGS Publications Warehouse

Webb, Robert H.; Nussear, Kenneth E.; Carmichael, Shinji; Esque, Todd C.

2014-01-01

Compaction vulnerability of different types of soils by hikers and vehicles is poorly known, particularly for soils of arid and semiarid regions. Engineering analyses have long shown that poorly sorted soils (for example, sandy loams) compact to high densities, whereas well-sorted soils (for example, eolian sand) do not compact, and high gravel content may reduce compaction. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument (ORPI) in southwestern Arizona, is affected greatly by illicit activities associated with the United States–Mexico border, and has many soils that resource managers consider to be highly vulnerable to compaction. Using geospatial soils data for ORPI, compaction vulnerability was estimated qualitatively based on the amount of gravel and the degree of sorting of sand and finer particles. To test this qualitative assessment, soil samples were collected from 48 sites across all soil map units, and undisturbed bulk densities were measured. A scoring system was used to create a vulnerability index for soils on the basis of particle-size sorting, soil properties derived from Proctor compaction analyses, and the field undisturbed bulk densities. The results of the laboratory analyses indicated that the qualitative assessments of soil compaction vulnerability underestimated the area of high vulnerability soils by 73 percent. The results showed that compaction vulnerability of desert soils, such as those at ORPI, can be quantified using laboratory tests and evaluated using geographic information system analyses, providing a management tool that managers potentially could use to inform decisions about activities that reduce this type of soil disruption in protected areas.

Chemical thermodynamic representation of (U, Pu, Am)O 2- x

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Osaka, Masahiko; Namekawa, Takashi; Kurosaki, Ken; Yamanaka, Shinsuke

2005-09-01

The oxygen potential isotherms of (U, Pu, Am)O 2- x were represented by a chemical thermodynamic model proposed by Lindemer et al. It was assumed in the present model that (U, Pu, Am)O 2- x consisted of the chemical species [UO 2], [PuO 2], [Pu 4/3O 2], [AmO 2] and [Am 5/4O 2] in a pseudo-quaternary system by treating the reduction rates of Pu and Am as identical; furthermore an interaction between [Am 5/4O 2] and [UO 2] was introduced. The agreement between analytical and experimental isotherms was good, but the analytical values slightly overestimated the experimental values especially in the case of lower Am content. Adding an interaction between [Am 5/4O 2] and [PuO 2] to the model resulted in a better representation.

Production Management System for AMS Computing Centres

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Choutko, V.; Demakov, O.; Egorov, A.; Eline, A.; Shan, B. S.; Shi, R.

2017-10-01

The Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer [1] (AMS) has collected over 95 billion cosmic ray events since it was installed on the International Space Station (ISS) on May 19, 2011. To cope with enormous flux of events, AMS uses 12 computing centers in Europe, Asia and North America, which have different hardware and software configurations. The centers are participating in data reconstruction, Monte-Carlo (MC) simulation [2]/Data and MC production/as well as in physics analysis. Data production management system has been developed to facilitate data and MC production tasks in AMS computing centers, including job acquiring, submitting, monitoring, transferring, and accounting. It was designed to be modularized, light-weighted, and easy-to-be-deployed. The system is based on Deterministic Finite Automaton [3] model, and implemented by script languages, Python and Perl, and the built-in sqlite3 database on Linux operating systems. Different batch management systems, file system storage, and transferring protocols are supported. The details of the integration with Open Science Grid are presented as well.

2011 Joint Missions Conference Held in Bloomington, Indiana on August 29-31, 2011

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-08-31

Breakfast Sponsored by CTC Foyer 8:00 AM – 8:15 AM NSWC Crane Welcome Remarks Great Hall  Mr. Duane Embree (SES), Technical...Director, NSWC Crane 8:15 AM – 8:30 AM NDIA Welcome Remarks Great Hall  MG Barry D. Bates, USA (Ret), VP Operations, NDIA 8:30 AM...Agile Response • Test and Evaluation Design • Concurrent systems evolution NPS Perspective on FX Research Dimensions HADR FX COCOM FX (Proposed)SOF FX

Comparison Of 252Cf Time Correlated Induced Fisssion With AmLi Induced Fission On Fresh MTR Research Reactor Fuel

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

Joshi, Jay Prakash

The effective application of international safeguards to research reactors requires verification of spent fuel as well as fresh fuel. To accomplish this goal various nondestructive and destructive assay techniques have been developed in the US and around the world. The Advanced Experimental Fuel Counter (AEFC) is a nondestructive assay (NDA) system developed at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) combining both neutron and gamma measurement capabilities. Since spent fuel assemblies are stored in water, the system was designed to be watertight to facilitate underwater measurements by inspectors. The AEFC is comprised of six 3He detectors as well as a shielded andmore » collimated ion chamber. The 3He detectors are used for active and passive neutron coincidence counting while the ion chamber is used for gross gamma counting. Active coincidence measurement data is used to measure residual fissile mass, whereas the passive coincidence measurement data along with passive gamma measurement can provide information about burnup, cooling time, and initial enrichment. In the past, most of the active interrogation systems along with the AEFC used an AmLi neutron interrogation source. Owing to the difficulty in obtaining an AmLi source, a 252Cf spontaneous fission (SF) source was used during a 2014 field trail in Uzbekistan as an alternative. In this study, experiments were performed to calibrate the AEFC instrument and compare use of the 252Cf spontaneous fission source and the AmLi (α,n) neutron emission source. The 252Cf source spontaneously emits bursts of time-correlated prompt fission neutrons that thermalize in the water and induce fission in the fuel assembly. The induced fission (IF) neutrons are also time correlated resulting in more correlated neutron detections inside the 3He detector, which helps reduce the statistical errors in doubles when using the 252Cf interrogation source instead of the AmLi source. In this work, two MTR fuel assemblies varying both in size and number of fuel plates were measured using 252Cf and AmLi active interrogation sources. This paper analyzes time correlated induced fission (TCIF) from fresh MTR fuel assemblies due to 252Cf and AmLi active interrogation sources.« less

Quantitative analysis of packed and compacted granular systems by x-ray microtomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fu, Xiaowei; Milroy, Georgina E.; Dutt, Meenakshi; Bentham, A. Craig; Hancock, Bruno C.; Elliott, James A.

2005-04-01

The packing and compaction of powders are general processes in pharmaceutical, food, ceramic and powder metallurgy industries. Understanding how particles pack in a confined space and how powders behave during compaction is crucial for producing high quality products. This paper outlines a new technique, based on modern desktop X-ray tomography and image processing, to quantitatively investigate the packing of particles in the process of powder compaction and provide great insights on how powder densify during powder compaction, which relate in terms of materials properties and processing conditions to tablet manufacture by compaction. A variety of powder systems were considered, which include glass, sugar, NaCl, with a typical particle size of 200-300 mm and binary mixtures of NaCl-Glass Spheres. The results are new and have been validated by SEM observation and numerical simulations using discrete element methods (DEM). The research demonstrates that XMT technique has the potential in further investigating of pharmaceutical processing and even verifying other physical models on complex packing.

OPERATOR BURDEN IN METAL ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING

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

Elliott, Amy M; Love, Lonnie J

2016-01-01

Additive manufacturing (AM) is an emerging manufacturing process that creates usable machine parts via layer-by-layer joining of a stock material. With this layer-wise approach, high-performance geometries can be created which are impossible with traditional manufacturing methods. Metal AM technology has the potential to significantly reduce the manufacturing burden of developing custom hardware; however, a major consideration in choosing a metal AM system is the required amount of operator involvement (i.e., operator burden) in the manufacturing process. The operator burden not only determines the amount of operator training and specialization required but also the usability of the system in a facility.more » As operators of several metal AM processes, the Manufacturing Demonstration Facility (MDF) at Oak Ridge National Labs is uniquely poised to provide insight into requirements for operator involvement in each of the three major metal AM processes. The paper covers an overview of each of the three metal AM technologies, focusing on the burden on the operator to complete the build cycle, process the part for final use, and reset the AM equipment for future builds.« less

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal communities in the rhizosphere of a continuous cropping soybean system at the seedling stage.

PubMed

Cui, Jiaqi; Bai, Li; Liu, Xiaorui; Jie, Weiguang; Cai, Baiyan

Arbuscular mycorrhizae (AM) fungi play a crucial role in the growth of soybean; however, the planting system employed is thought to have an effect on AM fungal communities in the rhizosphere. This study was performed to explore the influence of continuous soybean cropping on the diversity of Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi, and to identify the dominant AM fungus during the seedling stage. Three soybean cultivars were planted under two and three years continuous cropping, respectively. The diversity of AM fungi in the rhizosphere soil at the seedling stage was subsequently analyzed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE). The results showed that an increase in cropping years improved the colonization rate of AM in all three soybean cultivars. Moreover, the dominant species were found to be Funneliformis mosseae and Glomus species. The results of cluster analysis further confirmed that the number of years of continuous cropping significantly affected the composition of rhizospheric AM fungal communities in different soybean cultivars. Copyright © 2017 Sociedade Brasileira de Microbiologia. Published by Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

Recent advances in AM OLED technologies for application to aerospace and military systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sarma, Kalluri R.; Roush, Jerry; Chanley, Charles

2012-06-01

While initial AM OLED products have been introduced in the market about a decade ago, truly successful commercialization of OLEDs has started only a couple of years ago, by Samsung Mobile Display (SMD), with small high performance displays for smart phone applications. This success by Samsung has catalyzed significant interest in AM OLED technology advancement and commercialization by other display manufacturers. Currently, significant manufacturing capacity for AM OLED displays is being established by the industry to serve the growing demand for these displays. The current development in the AM OLED industry are now focused on the development and commercialization of medium size (~10") AM OLED panels for Tablet PC applications and large size (~55") panels for TV applications. This significant progress in commercialization of AM OLED technology is enabled by major advances in various enabling technologies that include TFT backplanes, OLED materials and device structures and manufacturing know-how. In this paper we will discuss these recent advances, particularly as they relate to supporting high performance applications such as aerospace and military systems, and then discuss the results of the OLED testing for aerospace applications.

Chronic cannabinoid CB2 activation reverses paclitaxel neuropathy without tolerance or CB1-dependent withdrawal

PubMed Central

Deng, Liting; Guindon, Josée; Cornett, Benjamin L.; Makriyannis, Alexandros; Mackie, Ken; Hohmann, Andrea G.

2014-01-01

Background Mixed cannabinoid CB1/CB2 agonists such as Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) can produce tolerance, physical withdrawal, and unwanted CB1-mediated central nervous system side effects. Whether repeated systemic administration of a CB2-preferring agonist engages CB1 receptors or produces CB1-mediated side effects is unknown. Methods We evaluated anti-allodynic efficacy, possible tolerance, and cannabimimetic side effects of repeated dosing with a CB2-preferring agonist AM1710 in a model of chemotherapy-induced neuropathy produced by paclitaxel using CB1KO, CB2KO, and WT mice. Comparisons were made with the prototypic classical cannabinoid Δ9-THC. We also explored the site and possible mechanism of action of AM1710. Results Paclitaxel-induced mechanical and cold allodynia developed equivalently in CB1KO, CB2KO, and WT mice. Both AM1710 and Δ9-THC suppressed established paclitaxel-induced allodynia in WT mice. Unlike Δ9-THC, chronic AM1710 did not engage CB1 activity or produce antinociceptive tolerance, CB1-mediated cannabinoid withdrawal, hypothermia, or motor dysfunction. Anti-allodynic efficacy of systemic AM1710 was absent in CB2KO mice or WT mice receiving the CB2 antagonist AM630, administered either systemically or intrathecally. Intrathecal AM1710 also attenuated paclitaxel-induced allodynia in WT but not CB2KO mice, implicating a possible role for spinal CB2 receptors in AM1710 anti-allodynic efficacy. Finally, both acute and chronic treatment with AM1710 decreased mRNA levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 in lumbar spinal cord of paclitaxel-treated WT mice. Conclusions Our results highlight the potential of prolonged use of CB2 agonists for managing chemotherapy-induced allodynia with a favorable therapeutic ratio marked by sustained efficacy and absence of tolerance, physical withdrawal, or CB1-mediated side effects. PMID:24853387

500-Watt Solid-State RF Power Amplifier AM-7209( )/VRC.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-03-18

AD-A127 462 580-WRATT SOLID-STATE RF POWER AMPLIFIER AM-7289( )/VRC 1/2 (U) E- SYSTEMS INC ST PETERSBURG FL ECI DIV N HARRIS 18 MAR 83 60-6±289 CECOM...AND DEVELOPMENT TECHNICAL REPORT CECOM-82-C-J23 1 500-WATT SOLID-STATE RF POWER AMPLIFIER AM-7209( )/VRC M. Harris E- SYSTEMS , INC., ECI DIVISION 1502...CONTRACT OR GRANT NUMSER(t) M. Harris DAABO7-82-C-J231 9m PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME AND ADDRESS II. PROGRAM ELEMENT. PROJECT TASK E- SYSTEMS , INC

Comparative evaluation of three commercial systems for nucleic acid extraction from urine specimens.

PubMed

Tang, Yi-Wei; Sefers, Susan E; Li, Haijing; Kohn, Debra J; Procop, Gary W

2005-09-01

A nucleic acid extraction system that can handle small numbers of specimens with a short test turnaround time and short hands-on time is desirable for emergent testing. We performed a comparative validation on three systems: the MagNA Pure compact system (Compact), the NucliSens miniMAG extraction instrument (miniMAG), and the BioRobot EZ1 system (EZ1). A total of 75 urine specimens submitted for polyomavirus BK virus detection were used. The human beta-actin gene was detected on 75 (100%), 75 (100%), and 72 (96%) nucleic acid extracts prepared by the miniMAG, EZ1, and Compact, respectively. The miniMAG produced the highest quantity of nucleic acids and the best precision among the three systems. The agreement rate was 100% for BKV detection on nucleic acid extracts prepared by the three extraction systems. When a full panel of specimens was run, the hands-on time and test turnaround time were 105.7 and 121.1 min for miniMAG, 6.1 and 22.6 min for EZ1, and 7.4 and 33.7 min for Compact, respectively. The EZ1 and Compact systems processed automatic nucleic acid extraction properly, providing a good solution to the need for sporadic but emergent specimen detection. The miniMAG yielded the highest quantity of nucleic acids, suggesting that this system would be the best for specimens containing a low number of microorganisms of interest.

FM-to-AM modulations induced by a weak residual reflection stack of sine-modulated pulses in inertial confinement fusion laser systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Xiaoxia; Deng, Xuewei; Zhou, Wei; Hu, Dongxia; Guo, Huaiwen; Wang, Yuancheng; Zhao, Bowang; Zhong, Wei; Deng, Wu

2018-02-01

We report on frequency to amplitude modulation (FM-to-AM) conversion induced by a weak residual reflection stack of sine-modulated pulses in a complex laser system. Theoretical and experimental investigations reveal that when weak residual reflected pulses stack on the main pulse, the spectral intensity changes in the stacked region, which then converts to obvious AM. This kind of FM-to-AM effect often occurs in the tail of the pulse and cannot be eliminated by common compensation methods, which even enhance the modulation depth. Furthermore, the actual intensity modulation frequency and depth induced by the residual reflection stack are much higher and deeper than observed on the oscilloscope, which is harmful for safe operation of the laser facility and the driving power balance during inertial confinement fusion. To eliminate this kind of FM-to-AM effect, any possible on-axis and near-axis residual reflection in laser systems must be avoided.

The Autonomous Maintenance Implementation Directory as a Step Toward the Intelligent Quality Management System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Molenda, Michał

2016-12-01

The article describes the effects of the improvement of the production process which one of the industrial enterprises obtained by implementing the method of Autonomous Maintenance (AM), which is one of the pillars of the concept of Total Productive Maintenance (TPM). AM method was presented as an aid to the formation of intelligent, self-improving procesess of the quality management system (QMS). The main part of this article is to present results of studies that have been conducted in one of the large industrial enterprises in Poland, manufacturing for the automotive industry. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the implementation of the AM method as a tool for selfimprovement of industrial processes in the following company. The study was conducted in 2015. The gathering and comparison of data from the period of two years, ie. the year before and the year after the implementation of AM, helped to determine the effectiveness of AM in building intelligent quality management system.

Compact Full-Field Ion Detector System for CubeSat Science Beyond LEO

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wrbanek, John D.; Wrbanek, Susan Y.; Fralick, Gustave C.; Clark, Pamela E.

2013-01-01

NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) is applying its expertise and facilities in harsh environment instrumentation to develop a Compact Full-Field Ion Detector System (CFIDS). The CFIDS is designed to be an extremely compact, low cost instrument, capable of being flown on a wide variety of deep space platforms, to provide comprehensive (composition, velocity, and direction) in situ measurements of heavy ions in space plasma environments with higher fidelity, than previously available.

Investment appraisal of automatic milking and conventional milking technologies in a pasture-based dairy system.

PubMed

Shortall, J; Shalloo, L; Foley, C; Sleator, R D; O'Brien, B

2016-09-01

The successful integration of automatic milking (AM) systems and grazing has resulted in AM becoming a feasible alternative to conventional milking (CM) in pasture-based systems. The objective of this study was to identify the profitability of AM in a pasture-based system, relative to CM herringbone parlors with 2 different levels of automation, across 2 farm sizes, over a 10-yr period following initial investment. The scenarios which were evaluated were (1) a medium farm milking 70 cows twice daily, with 1 AM unit, a 12-unit CM medium-specification (MS) parlor and a 12-unit CM high-specification (HS) parlor, and (2) a large farm milking 140 cows twice daily with 2 AM units, a 20-unit CM MS parlor and a 20-unit CM HS parlor. A stochastic whole-farm budgetary simulation model combined capital investment costs and annual labor and maintenance costs for each investment scenario, with each scenario evaluated using multiple financial metrics, such as annual net profit, annual net cash flow, total discounted net profitability, total discounted net cash flow, and return on investment. The capital required for each investment was financed from borrowings at an interest rate of 5% and repaid over 10-yr, whereas milking equipment and building infrastructure were depreciated over 10 and 20 yr, respectively. A supporting labor audit (conducted on both AM and CM farms) showed a 36% reduction in labor demand associated with AM. However, despite this reduction in labor, MS CM technologies consistently achieved greater profitability, irrespective of farm size. The AM system achieved intermediate profitability at medium farm size; it was 0.5% less profitable than HS technology at the large farm size. The difference in profitability was greatest in the years after the initial investment. This study indicated that although milking with AM was less profitable than MS technologies, it was competitive when compared with a CM parlor of similar technology. Copyright © 2016 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

47 CFR 73.62 - Directional antenna system operation and tolerances.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Directional antenna system operation and... RADIO SERVICES RADIO BROADCAST SERVICES AM Broadcast Stations § 73.62 Directional antenna system operation and tolerances. (a) Each AM station operating a directional antenna must maintain the relative...

47 CFR 73.62 - Directional antenna system operation and tolerances.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 4 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Directional antenna system operation and... RADIO SERVICES RADIO BROADCAST SERVICES AM Broadcast Stations § 73.62 Directional antenna system operation and tolerances. (a) Each AM station operating a directional antenna must maintain the relative...

47 CFR 73.62 - Directional antenna system operation and tolerances.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 4 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Directional antenna system operation and... RADIO SERVICES RADIO BROADCAST SERVICES AM Broadcast Stations § 73.62 Directional antenna system operation and tolerances. (a) Each AM station operating a directional antenna must maintain the relative...

47 CFR 73.62 - Directional antenna system operation and tolerances.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 4 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Directional antenna system operation and... RADIO SERVICES RADIO BROADCAST SERVICES AM Broadcast Stations § 73.62 Directional antenna system operation and tolerances. (a) Each AM station operating a directional antenna must maintain the relative...

47 CFR 73.62 - Directional antenna system operation and tolerances.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 4 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Directional antenna system operation and... RADIO SERVICES RADIO BROADCAST SERVICES AM Broadcast Stations § 73.62 Directional antenna system operation and tolerances. (a) Each AM station operating a directional antenna must maintain the relative...

The NRSC and the FCC: Working To Change Policy and Procedure To Narrow the Distance between AM and FM.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Huff, W. A. Kelly

In the mid-1980s, the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) reformed the National Radio Systems Committee (NRSC) as a liaison between receiver manufacturers and amplitude modulation (AM) broadcasters to promote unity in upgrading AM transmission and reception, and to aid AM in narrowing the sound quality gap with frequency modulation (FM). In…

Systemic Manifestations in Pyridox(am)ine 5'-Phosphate Oxidase Deficiency.

PubMed

Guerriero, Réjean M; Patel, Archana A; Walsh, Brian; Baumer, Fiona M; Shah, Ankoor S; Peters, Jurriaan M; Rodan, Lance H; Agrawal, Pankaj B; Pearl, Phillip L; Takeoka, Masanori

2017-11-01

Pyridoxine is converted to its biologically active form pyridoxal-5-phosphate (P5P) by the enzyme pyridox(am)ine 5'-phosphate oxidase and serves as a cofactor in nearly 200 reactions in the central nervous system. Pyridox(am)ine 5'-phosphate oxidase deficiency leads to P5P dependent epilepsy, typically a neonatal- or infantile-onset epileptic encephalopathy treatable with P5P or in some cases, pyridoxine. Following identification of retinopathy in a patient with pyridox(am)ine 5'-phosphate oxidase deficiency that was reversible with P5P therapy, we describe the systemic manifestations of pyridox(am)ine 5'-phosphate oxidase deficiency. A series of six patients with homozygous mutations of PNPO, the gene coding pyridox(am)ine 5'-phosphate oxidase, were evaluated in our center over the course of two years for phenotyping of neurological and systemic manifestations. Five of six were born prematurely, three had anemia and failure to thrive, and two had elevated alkaline phosphatase. A movement disorder was observed in two children, and a reversible retinopathy was observed in the most severely affected infant. All patients had neonatal-onset epilepsy and were on a continuum of developmental delay to profound encephalopathy. Electroencephalographic features included background slowing and disorganization, absent sleep features, and multifocal and generalized epileptiform discharges. All the affected probands carried a homozygous PNPO mutation (c.674 G>T, c.686 G>A and c.352G>A). In addition to the well-described epileptic encephalopathy, pyridox(am)ine 5'-phosphate oxidase deficiency causes a range of neurological and systemic manifestations. A movement disorder, developmental delay, and encephalopathy, as well as retinopathy, anemia, and failure to thrive add to the broadening clinical spectrum of P5P dependent epilepsy. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Synthetic Retinoid AM80 Ameliorates Lung and Arthritic Autoimmune Responses by Inhibiting T Follicular Helper and Th17 Cell Responses.

PubMed

Naskar, Debdut; Teng, Fei; Felix, Krysta M; Bradley, C Pierce; Wu, Hsin-Jung Joyce

2017-03-01

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that affects the joints and other organs. Pulmonary complications contribute significantly to rheumatoid arthritis mortality. Retinoic acid and its synthetic compound AM80 play roles in immunoregulation but their effect on mucosal autoimmunity remains largely unknown. T follicular helper (Tfh) and Th17 cells are known to promote inflammation and autoantibody production. Using the K/BxN autoimmune arthritis model, we elucidate a novel mechanism whereby oral AM80 administration suppressed lung mucosa-associated Tfh and autoantibody responses by increasing the gut-homing α4β7 integrin expression on Tfh cells. This diverted Tfh cells from systemic (non-gut) inflamed sites such as the lung into the gut-associated lymphoid tissues, Peyer's patches, and thus reduced the systemic autoantibodies. AM80 also inhibited the lung Th17 response. AM80's effect in the lungs was readily applied to the joints as AM80 also inhibited Tfh and Th17 responses in the spleen, the major autoantibody producing site known to correlate with K/BxN arthritis severity. Finally, we used anti-β7 treatment as an alternative approach, demonstrating that manipulating T cell migration between the gut and systemic sites alters the systemic disease outcome. The β7 blockade prevented both Tfh and Th17 cells from entering the non-immunopathogenic site, the gut, and retained these T effector cells in the systemic sites, leading to augmented arthritis. These data suggest a dual beneficial effect of AM80, targeting both Tfh and Th17 cells, and warrant strict safety monitoring of gut-homing perturbing agents used in treating intestinal inflammation. Copyright © 2017 by The American Association of Immunologists, Inc.

Compact wearable dual-mode imaging system for real-time fluorescence image-guided surgery

PubMed Central

Zhu, Nan; Huang, Chih-Yu; Mondal, Suman; Gao, Shengkui; Huang, Chongyuan; Gruev, Viktor; Achilefu, Samuel; Liang, Rongguang

2015-01-01

Abstract. A wearable all-plastic imaging system for real-time fluorescence image-guided surgery is presented. The compact size of the system is especially suitable for applications in the operating room. The system consists of a dual-mode imaging system, see-through goggle, autofocusing, and auto-contrast tuning modules. The paper will discuss the system design and demonstrate the system performance. PMID:26358823

Quasi-Periodic Oscillations in AM Herculis - Repeat for HOPR#87/95

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chanmugam, G.

1991-07-01

AM Her variables are close-binary systems in which a white dwarf with a magnetic field of 20--70 MG accretes matter from a companion star. Theoretical studies of magnetically channeled accretion flows in such systems predict that the shock formed near the white dwarf should oscillate with periods of order 0.1--1 s. Optical high-speed photometry has indeed shown the existence of such rapid, quasi-periodic oscillations in some AM Her binaries, but not in others. We will use HST to obtain ultraviolet high-speed photometry of several AM Her systems, in order to explore further the nature of the oscillations, and to extend the search into the UV. HSP observations of two systems (VV Pup and ST LMi, in which the accreting magnetic pole periodically passes behind the limb of the white dwarf) will allow detailed eclipse mapping of the accretion column and the shock oscillations to be carried out.

Compact hybrid solar simulator with the spectral match beyond class A

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baguckis, Artūras; Novičkovas, Algirdas; Mekys, Algirdas; Tamošiūnas, Vincas

2016-07-01

A compact hybrid solar simulator with the spectral match beyond class A is proposed. Six types of high-power light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and tungsten halogen lamps in total were employed to obtain spectral match with <25% deviation from the standardized one in twelve spectral ranges between 400 and 1100 nm. All spectral ranges were twice as narrow than required by IEC 60904-9 Ed.2.0 and ASTM E927-10(2015) standards. Nonuniformity of the irradiance was evaluated and <2% deviation from the average value of the irradiance (corresponding to A class nonuniformity) can be obtained for the area of >3-cm diameter. A theoretical analysis was performed to evaluate possible performance of our simulator in the case of GaInP/GaAs/GaInAsP/GaInAs four-junction tandem solar cells and AM1.5D (ASTM G173-03 standard) spectrum. Lack of ultraviolet radiation in comparison to standard spectrum leads to 6.94% reduction of short-circuit current, which could be remedied with 137% increase of the output from blue LEDs. Excess of infrared radiation from halogen lamps outside ranges specified by standards is expected to lead to ˜0.77% voltage increase.

Ultra-Compact Raman Spectrometer for Planetary Explorations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Davis, Derek; Hornef, James; Lucas, John; Elsayed-Ali, Hani; Abedin, M. Nurul

2016-01-01

To develop a compact Raman spectroscopy system with features that will make it suitable for future space missions which require surface landing. Specifically, this system will be appropriate for any mission in which planetary surface samples need to be measured and analyzed.

Planar near-field scanning for compact range bistatic radar cross-section measurement. Thesis Final Report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tuhela-Reuning, S. R.; Walton, E. K.

1991-01-01

The design, construction, and testing of a low cost, planar scanning system to be used in a compact range environment for bistatic radar cross-section (bistatic RCS) measurement data are discussed. This scanning system is similar to structures used for measuring near-field antenna patterns. A synthetic aperture technique is used for plane wave reception. System testing entailed comparison of measured and theoretical bistatic RCS of a sphere and a right circular cylinder. Bistatic scattering analysis of the ogival target support, target and pedestal interactions, and compact range room was necessary to determine measurement validity.

Time-stable boundary conditions for finite-difference schemes solving hyperbolic systems: Methodology and application to high-order compact schemes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Carpenter, Mark H.; Gottlieb, David; Abarbanel, Saul

1993-01-01

We present a systematic method for constructing boundary conditions (numerical and physical) of the required accuracy, for compact (Pade-like) high-order finite-difference schemes for hyperbolic systems. First, a roper summation-by-parts formula is found for the approximate derivative. A 'simultaneous approximation term' (SAT) is then introduced to treat the boundary conditions. This procedure leads to time-stable schemes even in the system case. An explicit construction of the fourth-order compact case is given. Numerical studies are presented to verify the efficacy of the approach.

Galaxy evolution. Isolated compact elliptical galaxies: stellar systems that ran away.

PubMed

Chilingarian, Igor; Zolotukhin, Ivan

2015-04-24

Compact elliptical galaxies form a rare class of stellar system (~30 presently known) characterized by high stellar densities and small sizes and often harboring metal-rich stars. They were thought to form through tidal stripping of massive progenitors, until two isolated objects were discovered where massive galaxies performing the stripping could not be identified. By mining astronomical survey data, we have now found 195 compact elliptical galaxies in all types of environment. They all share similar dynamical and stellar population properties. Dynamical analysis for nonisolated galaxies demonstrates the feasibility of their ejection from host clusters and groups by three-body encounters, which is in agreement with numerical simulations. Hence, isolated compact elliptical and isolated quiescent dwarf galaxies are tidally stripped systems that ran away from their hosts. Copyright © 2015, American Association for the Advancement of Science.

Models of compacted fine-grained soils used as mineral liner for solid waste

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sivrikaya, Osman

2008-02-01

To prevent the leakage of pollutant liquids into groundwater and sublayers, the compacted fine-grained soils are commonly utilized as mineral liners or a sealing system constructed under municipal solid waste and other containment hazardous materials. This study presents the correlation equations of the compaction parameters required for construction of a mineral liner system. The determination of the characteristic compaction parameters, maximum dry unit weight ( γ dmax) and optimum water content ( w opt) requires considerable time and great effort. In this study, empirical models are described and examined to find which of the index properties correlate well with the compaction characteristics for estimating γ dmax and w opt of fine-grained soils at the standard compactive effort. The compaction data are correlated with different combinations of gravel content ( G), sand content ( S), fine-grained content (FC = clay + silt), plasticity index ( I p), liquid limit ( w L) and plastic limit ( w P) by performing multilinear regression (MLR) analyses. The obtained correlations with statistical parameters are presented and compared with the previous studies. It is found that the maximum dry unit weight and optimum water content have a considerably good correlation with plastic limit in comparison with liquid limit and plasticity index.

76 FR 57064 - Center for Scientific Review; Notice of Closed Meetings

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-09-15

...: Drug Discovery for the Nervous System. Date: October 17-18, 2011. Time: 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Agenda: To... Neuroscience Integrated Review Group, Biophysics of Neural Systems Study Section. Date: October 13, 2011. Time...

77 FR 20051 - Meeting of the Compact Council for the National Crime Prevention and Privacy Compact

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2012-04-03

... provides a legal framework for the establishment of a cooperative federal-state system to exchange such... on the Council. The Council will prescribe system rules and procedures for the effective and proper operation of the Interstate Identification Index system for noncriminal justice purposes. Matters for...

76 FR 20044 - Meeting of the Compact Council for the National Crime Prevention and Privacy Compact

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-04-11

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78 FR 61384 - Meeting of the Compact Council for the National Crime Prevention and Privacy Compact

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-10-03

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77 FR 60475 - Meeting of the Compact Council for the National Crime Prevention and Privacy Compact

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-10-03

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2016 Multifunctional Materials and Structures: Science of Autonomic, Adaptive and Self-Sustaining Systems GRC

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-02-23

Materials from Programmable Colloids" 9:05 pm - 9:25 pm Discussion 9:25 pm - 9:30 pm General Discussion Tuesday 7:30 am - 8:30 am Breakfast 9:00 am...2016 Multifunctional Materials and Structures: Science of Autonomic, Adaptive and Self-Sustaining Systems GRC Operational Summary The Gordon...Research Conference (GRC) on Multifunctional Materials & Structures was held at the Four Points Sheraton in Ventura, California from January 31-February

Diversity of arbuscular mycorrhiza in the rhizosphere of Cajeput in agroforestry system with different fertilizer management of maize

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Parwi; Pudjiasmanto, B.; Purnomo, D.; Cahyani, VR

2017-11-01

This study investigated the diversity of arbuscular mycorrhiza in rhizosphere of cajeput with different fertilizer management of maize. This research was conducted by observation on cajeput agroforestry system in Ponorogo that have different fertilizer management of maize: conventional management (CM), universal management (UM) and alternative management (AM1, AM2, and AM3). The result showed that the highest infection of arbuscular mycorrhiza was observed in the plot of AM3, while the lowest colonization was observed in the plot of CM. Infection of arbuscular mycorrhiza in roots cajeput from five fertilizer management, ranging from 32.64% - 63.33%. In all fertilizer management, there were eight species of arbuscular mycorrhiza which five species were Glomus genus, one species was Acaulospora genus and two species were Gigaspora genus. Glomus constrictum was the dominant species in all fertilizer management. Acaulospora favoeta was found only in the plot of AM3. Spore density varies between 150-594 / 100g of soil. The highest spore density was observed in the plot of AM3, while the lowest spore density was observed in the plot of AM1. The highest diversity index value of arbuscular mycorrhiza (Species richness and Shannon-Wiener) was observed in the plot of AM3.

In-situ formation compaction monitoring in deep reservoirs by use of fiber optics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Murai, Daisuke; Kunisue, Shoji; Higuchi, Tomoyuki; Kokubo, Tatsuo

2013-04-01

1. Background The Southern Kanto gas field, the largest field of natural gas dissolved in water in Japan, is located primarily under the Chiba Prefecture. In this field 8 companies produce 460*10^6m3/y of natural gas. In addition, the concentration of the iodine in the brine is almost 2000 times that in seawater and the iodine as well as natural gas is collected from the brine. Iodine is industrially useful and essential for the human body. About 30% of world production is produced in this area in recent years. On the other hand, the land subsidence has become the big problem since 1965 and more than 10cm/mm of land subsidence was observed by leveling in 1972. The natural gas and iodine producers in this area have made a land subsidence prevention agreement with the local government and made effort to prevent and control land subsidence. Although their pumping brine for the gas and the iodine production is inferred to be the main cause of land subsidence from that time, the ratio of the formation compaction caused by pumping brine in the total land subsidence hasn't been well known. Therefore, the measurement of the actual formation compaction has become an important technological issue for the companies and they jointly have developed a new monitoring system for the formation compaction. 2. Contents (1) By using fiber optics technology, we have developed a world's first monitoring system which measures each of the in-situ formation compactions continuously without running tools into the well. (2) In order to check a reliability of this system and the problems when construction, we carried out the preliminary test. We installed the prototype system in the shallow observation well with a depth of 80 m and measured the actual formation compaction. The water well was drilled at the 10m away from the observation well and the formation was artificially compacted by pumping groundwater from it. (3) We installed the monitoring system in the deep observation well with a depth of about 800m, and have been measuring the formation compaction of the natural gas reservoir now. 3. Conclusions (1) We succeeded in installing the monitoring system into the observation well and measure the each of 6 formation compactions in the gas reservoir. (2) As a result of the preliminary test we confirmed that the monitoring system run without big problems even in the field. The formation compacted/expanded with the groundwater level fallen/risen according to the pump rate. (3) We improved the monitoring system based on the knowledge acquired by the demonstration test and installed it into the deep observation well. We are carrying out the long term observation now. 4. Acknowledgements This research was carried out by the support for application of new technologies and technical studies program which Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corporation (JOGMEC) undertook.

Effects of high power ultrasonic vibration on the cold compaction of titanium.

PubMed

Fartashvand, Vahid; Abdullah, Amir; Ali Sadough Vanini, Seyed

2017-05-01

Titanium has widely been used in chemical and aerospace industries. In order to overcome the drawbacks of cold compaction of titanium, the process was assisted by an ultrasonic vibration system. For this purpose, a uniaxial ultrasonic assisted cold powder compaction system was designed and fabricated. The process variables were powder size, compaction pressure and initial powder compact thickness. Density, friction force, ejection force and spring back of the fabricated samples were measured and studied. The density was observed to improve under the action of ultrasonic vibration. Fine size powders showed better results of consolidation while using ultrasonic vibration. Under the ultrasonic action, it is thought that the friction forces between the die walls and the particles and those friction forces among the powder particles are reduced. Spring back and ejection force didn't considerably change when using ultrasonic vibration. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Impact Compaction of a Granular Material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fenton, Gregg; Asay, Blaine; Todd, Steve; Grady, Dennis

2017-06-01

The dynamic behavior of granular materials has importance to a variety of engineering applications. Although, the mechanical behavior of granular materials have been studied extensively for several decades, the dynamic behavior of these materials remains poorly understood. High-quality experimental data are needed to improve our general understanding of granular material compaction physics. This paper describes how an instrumented plunger impact system can be used to measure the compaction process for granular materials at high and controlled strain rates and subsequently used for computational modelling. The experimental technique relies on a gas-gun driven plunger system to generate a compaction wave through a volume of granular material. This volume of material has been redundantly instrumented along the bed length to track the progression of the compaction wave, and the piston displacement is measured with Photon Doppler Velocimetry (PDV). Using the gathered experimental data along with the initial material tap density, a granular material equation of state can be determined.

An Ultrasonic Compactor for Oil and Gas Exploration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Feeney, Andrew; Sikaneta, Sakalima; Harkness, Patrick; Lucas, Margaret

The Badger Explorer is a rig-less oil and gas exploration tool which drills into the subsea environment to collect geological data. Drill spoil is transported from the front end of the system to the rear, where the material is compacted. Motivated by the need to develop a highly efficient compaction system, an ultrasonic compactor for application with granular geological materials encountered in subsea environments is designed and fabricated as part of this study. The finite element method is used to design a compactor configuration suitable for subsea exploration, consisting of a vibrating ultrasonic horn called a resonant compactor head, which operates in a longitudinal mode at 20 kHz, driven by a Langevin piezoelectric transducer. A simplified version of the compactor is also designed, due to its ease of incorporating in a lab-based experimental rig, in order to demonstrate enhanced compaction using ultrasonics. Numerical analysis of this simplified compactor system is supported with experimental characterisation using laser Doppler vibrometry. Compaction testing is then conducted on granular geological material, showing that compaction can be enhanced through the use of an ultrasonic compactor.

Asynchronous Message Service Reference Implementation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Burleigh, Scott C.

2011-01-01

This software provides a library of middleware functions with a simple application programming interface, enabling implementation of distributed applications in conformance with the CCSDS AMS (Consultative Committee for Space Data Systems Asynchronous Message Service) specification. The AMS service, and its protocols, implement an architectural concept under which the modules of mission systems may be designed as if they were to operate in isolation, each one producing and consuming mission information without explicit awareness of which other modules are currently operating. Communication relationships among such modules are self-configuring; this tends to minimize complexity in the development and operations of modular data systems. A system built on this model is a society of generally autonomous, inter-operating modules that may fluctuate freely over time in response to changing mission objectives, modules functional upgrades, and recovery from individual module failure. The purpose of AMS, then, is to reduce mission cost and risk by providing standard, reusable infrastructure for the exchange of information among data system modules in a manner that is simple to use, highly automated, flexible, robust, scalable, and efficient. The implementation is designed to spawn multiple threads of AMS functionality under the control of an AMS application program. These threads enable all members of an AMS-based, distributed application to discover one another in real time, subscribe to messages on specific topics, and to publish messages on specific topics. The query/reply (client/server) communication model is also supported. Message exchange is optionally subject to encryption (to support confidentiality) and authorization. Fault tolerance measures in the discovery protocol minimize the likelihood of overall application failure due to any single operational error anywhere in the system. The multi-threaded design simplifies processing while enabling application nodes to operate at high speeds; linked lists protected by mutex semaphores and condition variables are used for efficient, inter-thread communication. Applications may use a variety of transport protocols underlying AMS itself, including TCP (Transmission Control Protocol), UDP (User Datagram Protocol), and message queues.

76 FR 30371 - Center for Scientific Review; Meetings

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-05-25

... Panel; RFA Panel: Drug Discovery for the Nervous System. Date: June 16-17, 2011. Time: 8 a.m. to 10 a.m... Special Emphasis Panel; RFA Panel: Drug Discovery for the Nervous System. Date: June 17, 2011. Time: 10 a...

The Nano-X Linear Accelerator: A Compact and Economical Cancer Radiotherapy System Incorporating Patient Rotation.

PubMed

Eslick, Enid M; Keall, Paul J

2015-10-01

Rapid technological improvements in radiotherapy delivery results in improved outcomes to patients, yet current commercial systems with these technologies on board are costly. The aim of this study was to develop a state-of-the-art cancer radiotherapy system that is economical and space efficient fitting with current world demands. The Nano-X system is a compact design that is light weight combining a patient rotation system with a vertical 6 MV fixed beam. In this paper, we present the Nano-X system design configuration, an estimate of the system dimensions and its potential impact on shielding cost reductions. We provide an assessment of implementing such a radiotherapy system clinically, its advantages and disadvantages compared to a compact conventional gantry rotating linac. The Nano-X system has several differentiating features from current radiotherapy systems, it is [1] compact and therefore can fit into small vaults, [2] light weight, and [3] engineering efficient, i.e., it rotates a relatively light component and the main treatment delivery components are not under rotation (e.g., DMLCs). All these features can have an impact on reducing the costs of the system. In terms of shielding requirements, leakage radiation was found to be the dominant contributor to the Nano-X vault and as such no primary shielding was necessary. For a low leakage design, the Nano-X vault footprint and concrete volume required is 17 m2 and 35 m3 respectively, compared to 54 m2 and 102 m3 for a conventional compact linac vault, resulting in decreased costs in shielding. Key issues to be investigated in future work are the possible patient comfort concerns associated with the patient rotation system, as well as the magnitude of deformation and subsequent adaptation requirements. © The Author(s) 2014.

Explaining compact groups as change alignments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mamon, Gary A.

1990-01-01

The physical nature of the apparently densest groups of galaxies, known as compact groups is a topic of some recent controversy, despite the detailed observations of a well-defined catalog of 100 isolated compact groups compiled by Hickson (1982). Whereas many authors have espoused the view that compact groups are bound systems, typically as dense as they appear in projection on the sky (e.g., Williams & Rood 1987; Sulentic 1987; Hickson & Rood 1988), others see them as the result of chance configurations within larger systems, either in 1D (chance alignments: Mamon 1986; Walke & Mamon 1989), or in 3D (transient cores: Rose 1979). As outlined in the companion review to this contribution (Mamon, in these proceedings), the implication of Hickson's compact groups (HCGs) being dense bound systems is that they would then constitute the densest isolated systems of galaxies in the Universe and the privileged site for galaxy interactions. In a previous paper (Mamon 1986), the author reviewed the arguments given for the different theories of compact groups. Since then, a dozen papers have been published on the subject, including a thorough and perceptive review by White (1990), thus more than doubling the amount written on the subject. Here, the author first enumerates the arguments that he brought up in 1986 substantiating the chance alignment hypothesis, then he reviews the current status of the numerous recent arguments arguing against chance alignments and/or for the bound dense group hypothesis (both for the majority of HCGs but not all of them), and finally he reconsiders each one of these anti-chance alignment arguments and shows that, rather than being discredited, the chance alignment hypothesis remains a fully consistent explanation for the nature of compact groups.

Effects of acute microinjections of the thyroid hormone derivative 3-iodothyronamine to the preoptic region of adult male rats on sleep, thermoregulation and motor activity

PubMed Central

James, Thomas D.; Moffett, Steven X.; Scanlan, Thomas S.; Martin, Joseph V.

2014-01-01

The decarboxylated thyroid hormone derivative 3-iodothyronamine (T1AM) has been reported as having behavioral and physiological consequences distinct from those of thyroid hormones. Here, we investigate the effects of T1AM on EEG-defined sleep after acute administration to the preoptic region of adult male rats. Our laboratory recently demonstrated a decrease in EEG-defined sleep after administration of 3,3′,5-triiodo-L-thyronine (T3) to the same brain region. After injection of T1AM or vehicle solution, EEG, EMG, activity, and core body temperature were recorded for 24 h. Sleep parameters were determined from EEG and EMG data. Earlier investigations found contrasting systemic effects of T3 and T1AM, such as decreased heart rate and body temperature after intraperitoneal T1AM injection. However, nREM sleep was decreased in the present study after injections of 1 or 3 μg T1AM, but not after 0.3 or 10 μg, closely mimicking the previously reported effects of T3 administration to the preoptic region. The biphasic dose–response observed after either T1AM or T3 administration seems to indicate shared mechanisms and/or functions of sleep regulation in the preoptic region. Consistent with systemic administration of T1AM, however, microinjection of T1AM decreased body temperature. The current study is the first to show modulation of sleep by T1AM, and suggests that T1AM and T3 have both shared and independent effects in the adult mammalian brain. PMID:23702093

75 FR 57965 - Center for Scientific Review; Notice of Closed Meetings

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-09-23

... Emphasis Panel; RFA Panel: Drug Discovery for the Nervous System. Date: October 14-15, 2010. Time: 8 a.m...: Center for Scientific Review Special Emphasis Panel; RFA Panel: Drug Discovery for the Nervous System... Review Special Emphasis Panel; Small Business: Visual Systems. Date: October 28, 2010. Time: 8 a.m. to 6...

Attached manipulator system design and concept verification for zero-g simulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Booker, R.; Burkitt, W.; Corveleyn, P.; Cramer, P.; Duwaik, O.; Flatau, C.; Garber, P.; Grant, C.; Greeb, F.; Johnson, C.

1973-01-01

The attached manipulator system (AMS) is to simulate and demonstrate zero-g shuttle manipulator cargo handling operations. It is not the design or development of the shuttle attached manipulator system (SAMS); however, every effort is being made, to insure that the AMS will be functionally similar to the SAMS.

Estimating gravitational radiation from super-emitting compact binary systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hanna, Chad; Johnson, Matthew C.; Lehner, Luis

2017-06-01

Binary black hole mergers are among the most violent events in the Universe, leading to extreme warping of spacetime and copious emission of gravitational radiation. Even though black holes are the most compact objects they are not necessarily the most efficient emitters of gravitational radiation in binary systems. The final black hole resulting from a binary black hole merger retains a significant fraction of the premerger orbital energy and angular momentum. A nonvacuum system can in principle shed more of this energy than a black hole merger of equivalent mass. We study these super-emitters through a toy model that accounts for the possibility that the merger creates a compact object that retains a long-lived time-varying quadrupole moment. This toy model may capture the merger of (low mass) neutron stars, but it may also be used to consider more exotic compact binaries. We hope that this toy model can serve as a guide to more rigorous numerical investigations into these systems.

Dual functional passivating layer of graphene/TiO2 for improved performance of dye-sensitized solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shahid, Muhammad Umair; Mohamed, Norani Muti; Muhsan, Ali Samer; Khatani, Mehboob; Bashiri, Robabeh; Zaine, Siti Nur Azella; Shamsudin, Adel Eskandar

2018-02-01

The FTO/TiO2 interface plays a crucial role in the performance of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). The uneven microstructure morphology of FTO (fluorine-doped tin oxide) glass surface and high porosity of TiO2 layer produce tiny gaps and voids at the FTO/TiO2 interface that breaks the connectivity, leading to an increase in the recombination process. In the current work, a dual functional passivating layer is introduced by the combination of the graphene/TiO2 compact layer. The excellent mobility and flexibility of graphene is capitalized using its layer to fill the voids in the FTO surface, which can consequently reduce the charge transfer resistance at the interface, while the added TiO2 compact layer avoids direct contact with the electrolyte thus reducing the recombination. Graphene was synthesized by the facile solvent exfoliation method with the assistance of the probe sonication process. The parameters of sonication were optimized to achieve high-quality concentrated graphene inks (0.177-0.51 mg/ml). Raman spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed that the graphene obtained is of a few-layer type. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) analysis indicated that the incorporated compact layer of graphene/TiO2 was capable of accelerating the charge transfer and reducing the recombination process at the FTO/TiO2 interface. Consequently, the photoconversion efficiency (PCE) for the device (1 cm2 active area) with double-coated graphene layer under one sun irradiation (AM 1.5) was found to be 49.49% higher than the conventional one.

Using Conservation Systems to Alleviate Soil Compaction in a Southeastern United States Ultisol

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Coastal Plain soils are prone to compaction and tend to form hardpans which restrict root growth and reduce yields. The adoption of non-inversion deep tillage has been recommended to disrupt compacted soil layers and create an adequate medium for crop development. In spite of its efficacy, increased...

Modeling of two-phase porous flow with damage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cai, Z.; Bercovici, D.

2009-12-01

Two-phase dynamics has been broadly studied in Earth Science in a convective system. We investigate the basic physics of compaction with damage theory and present preliminary results of both steady state and time-dependent transport when melt migrates through porous medium. In our simple 1-D model, damage would play an important role when we consider the ascent of melt-rich mixture at constant velocity. Melt segregation becomes more difficult so that porosity is larger than that in simple compaction in the steady-state compaction profile. Scaling analysis for compaction equation is performed to predict the behavior of melt segregation with damage. The time-dependent of the compacting system is investigated by looking at solitary wave solutions to the two-phase model. We assume that the additional melt is injected to the fracture material through a single pulse with determined shape and velocity. The existence of damage allows the pulse to keep moving further than that in simple compaction. Therefore more melt could be injected to the two-phase mixture and future application such as carbon dioxide injection is proposed.

Modified Light Duty AM2 Capability Assessment

DTIC Science & Technology

The Modified Light -Duty AM2 matting was designed specifically for lightweight, remote-piloted aircraft (RPA) applications. An in- depth study was... Ratio (CBR) of 6. To understand the full potential of the Modified Light -Duty AM2, a full- scale evaluation was performed with contingency C-17 and...stir welding for use in fabrication of the lightweight RPA matting in conjunction with a full- scale test on the Modified Light -Duty AM2 matting system

Compact DFB laser modules with integrated isolator at 935 nm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reggentin, M.; Thiem, H.; Tsianos, G.; Malach, M.; Hofmann, J.; Plocke, T.; Kneier, M.; Richter, L.

2018-02-01

New developments in industrial applications and applications under rough environmental conditions within the field of spectroscopy and quantum technology in the 935 nm wavelength regime demand new compact, stable and robust laser systems. Beside a stable laser source the integration of a compact optical isolator is necessary to reduce size and power consumption for the whole laser system. The integration of a suitable optical isolator suppresses back reflections from the following optical system efficiently. However, the miniaturization of the optics inside the package leads to high optical power density levels that make a more detailed analysis of the components and their laser damage threshold necessary. We present test results on compact stable DFB laser sources (butterfly style packages) with newly integrated optical isolators operating around 935 nm. The presented data includes performance and lifetime tests for the laser diodes as well as package components. Overall performance data of the packaged laser diodes will be shown as well.

250 kV 6 mA compact Cockcroft-Walton high-voltage power supply.

PubMed

Ma, Zhan-Wen; Su, Xiao-Dong; Lu, Xiao-Long; Wei, Zhen; Wang, Jun-Run; Huang, Zhi-Wu; Miao, Tian-You; Su, Tong-Ling; Yao, Ze-En

2016-08-01

A compact power supply system for a compact neutron generator has been developed. A 4-stage symmetrical Cockcroft-Walton circuit is adopted to produce 250 kV direct current high-voltage. A 2-stage 280 kV isolation transformer system is used to drive the ion source power supply. For a compact structure, safety, and reliability during the operation, the Cockcroft-Walton circuit and the isolation transformer system are enclosed in an epoxy vessel containing the transformer oil whose size is about ∅350 mm × 766 mm. Test results indicate that the maximum output voltage of the power supply is 282 kV, and the stability of the output voltage is better than 0.63% when the high voltage power supply is operated at 250 kV, 6.9 mA with the input voltage varying ±10%.

250 kV 6 mA compact Cockcroft-Walton high-voltage power supply

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

Ma, Zhan-Wen; Su, Xiao-Dong; Wei, Zhen

A compact power supply system for a compact neutron generator has been developed. A 4-stage symmetrical Cockcroft-Walton circuit is adopted to produce 250 kV direct current high-voltage. A 2-stage 280 kV isolation transformer system is used to drive the ion source power supply. For a compact structure, safety, and reliability during the operation, the Cockcroft-Walton circuit and the isolation transformer system are enclosed in an epoxy vessel containing the transformer oil whose size is about ∅350 mm × 766 mm. Test results indicate that the maximum output voltage of the power supply is 282 kV, and the stability of themore » output voltage is better than 0.63% when the high voltage power supply is operated at 250 kV, 6.9 mA with the input voltage varying ±10%.« less

A Distributed Ambient Intelligence Based Multi-Agent System for Alzheimer Health Care

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tapia, Dante I.; RodríGuez, Sara; Corchado, Juan M.

This chapter presents ALZ-MAS (Alzheimer multi-agent system), an ambient intelligence (AmI)-based multi-agent system aimed at enhancing the assistance and health care for Alzheimer patients. The system makes use of several context-aware technologies that allow it to automatically obtain information from users and the environment in an evenly distributed way, focusing on the characteristics of ubiquity, awareness, intelligence, mobility, etc., all of which are concepts defined by AmI. ALZ-MAS makes use of a services oriented multi-agent architecture, called flexible user and services oriented multi-agent architecture, to distribute resources and enhance its performance. It is demonstrated that a SOA approach is adequate to build distributed and highly dynamic AmI-based multi-agent systems.

Social Simulation for AmI Systems Engineering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Garcia-Valverde, Teresa; Serrano, Emilio; Botia, Juan A.

This paper propose the use of multi-agent based simulation (MABS) to allow testing, validating and verifying Ambient Intelligence (AmI) environments in a flexible and robust way. The development of AmI is very complex because of this technology must often adapt to contextual information as well as unpredictable and changeable behaviours. The concrete simulation is called Ubik and is integrated into the AmISim architecture which is also presented in this paper. This architecture deals with AmI applications in order to discover defects, estimate quality of applications, help to make decisions about the design, etc. The paper shows that Ubik and AmISim provide a simulation framework which can test scenarios that would be impossible in real environments or even with previous AmI simulation approaches.

Accelerator mass spectrometry in biomedical research

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vogel, J. S.; Turteltaub, K. W.

1994-06-01

Biological effects occur in natural systems at chemical concentrations of parts per billion (1:10 9) or less. Affected biomolecules may be separable in only milligram or microgram quantities. Quantification at attomole sensitivity is needed to study these interactions. AMS measures isotope concentrations to parts per 10 13-15 on milligram-sized samples and is ideal for quantifying long-lived radioisotopic labels for tracing biochemical pathways in natural systems. 14C-AMS has now been coupled to a variety of organic separation and definition technologies. Our primary research investigates pharmacokinetics and genotoxicities of toxins and drugs at very low doses. Human subjects research using AMS includes nutrition, toxicity and elemental balance studies. 3H, 41Ca and 26Al are also traced by AMS for fundamental biochemical kinetic research. Expansion of biomedical AMS awaits further development of biochemical and accelerator technologies designed specifically for these applications.

Characterization of biomass burning aerosols produced in the laboratory with a light-scattering aerosol mass spectrometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Middlebrook, A. M.; Adler, G. A.; Coggon, M.; De Gouw, J. A.; Franchin, A.; Gilman, J.; Koss, A.; Krechmer, J. E.; Lamb, K.; Manfred, K.; Roberts, J. M.; Schwarz, J. P.; Sekimoto, K.; Selimovic, V.; Stockwell, C.; Wagner, N.; Warneke, C.; Washenfelder, R. A.; Womack, C.; Yokelson, R. J.; Yuan, B.

2017-12-01

During the 2016 NOAA FIREX project at the Missoula Fire Sciences Laboratory, small fires of known fuel type and properties were ignited to characterize their direct emissions with a large variety of new sampling methods. Two types of experiments were employed: sampling smoke directly from the exhaust stack throughout the lifecycle of the fires (stack burns) or sampling when the exhaust vent was closed to fill the room with smoke (room burns). For both types of burns, photo-oxidation chambers were at times used to mimic aging in the atmosphere. During all these experiments, we measured the non-refractory components of the smoke particles using an Aerodyne compact time-of-flight aerosol mass spectrometer (AMS) with a light scattering module and diluted the sample line as little as possible (usually by a factor of 10) without overwhelming our instrument. For the stack burns, our AMS was placed near the top of the exhaust stack to capture the composition and size distribution during the rapidly changing stages of the fires. We found that the chemical composition of the aerosols varied with fuel type and combustion conditions on time scales of a few minutes as the fuels went through different stages of heating and combustion. For the room burns, we obtained additional measurements with the light-scattering module aimed at understanding how well smoke particles are measured with the AMS, along with characterization of their physical properties. We will present a summary of our results, with connections to their relevance for constraining model treatments of fire emissions on the atmosphere.

A New Non-Destructive TDR System Combined with a Piezoelectric Stack for Measuring Properties of Geomaterials

PubMed Central

Choi, Chanyong; Song, Minwoo; Kim, Daehyeon; Yu, Xiong

2016-01-01

Dry density and water content are two important factors affecting the degree of soil compaction. Conventional methods such as the sand cone test and the plate load test are used to measure such properties for evaluating the degree of compaction and the stiffness of soil in the field. However, these tests are generally very time-consuming and are inherent with some errors depending on the operator (in particular for the sand cone test). Elastic modulus is an indicator to describe the stress-strain behavior of soil and in some cases is used as a design input parameter. Although a rod type TDR (Time Domain Reflectometry) system has been recently proposed to overcome some shortcomings of the conventional methods (particularly the sand cone test), it requires driving the probes into the ground, thus implying that it is still a time-consuming and destructive testing method. This study aims to develop a new non-destructive TDR system that can rapidly measure the dry density, water content, and elastic modulus of soil on the surface of compacted soil, without disturbing the ground. In this study, the Piezoelectric Stack, which is an instrument for measuring the elastic modulus of soil, has been added to the TDR system with a flat type probe, leading to a non-destructive TDR system that is capable of measuring the dry density, water content, and elastic modulus of soil. The new TDR system developed is light enough for an engineer to carry. Results of the standard compaction and TDR tests on sand showed that the dry densities and the moisture contents measured with the new TDR system were in good agreement with those measured with the standard compaction test, respectively. Consequently, it appears that the new TDR system developed will be very useful to advance the current practice of compaction quality control. PMID:28773563

A New Non-Destructive TDR System Combined with a Piezoelectric Stack for Measuring Properties of Geomaterials.

PubMed

Choi, Chanyong; Song, Minwoo; Kim, Daehyeon; Yu, Xiong

2016-06-02

Dry density and water content are two important factors affecting the degree of soil compaction. Conventional methods such as the sand cone test and the plate load test are used to measure such properties for evaluating the degree of compaction and the stiffness of soil in the field. However, these tests are generally very time-consuming and are inherent with some errors depending on the operator (in particular for the sand cone test). Elastic modulus is an indicator to describe the stress-strain behavior of soil and in some cases is used as a design input parameter. Although a rod type TDR (Time Domain Reflectometry) system has been recently proposed to overcome some shortcomings of the conventional methods (particularly the sand cone test), it requires driving the probes into the ground, thus implying that it is still a time-consuming and destructive testing method. This study aims to develop a new non-destructive TDR system that can rapidly measure the dry density, water content, and elastic modulus of soil on the surface of compacted soil, without disturbing the ground. In this study, the Piezoelectric Stack, which is an instrument for measuring the elastic modulus of soil, has been added to the TDR system with a flat type probe, leading to a non-destructive TDR system that is capable of measuring the dry density, water content, and elastic modulus of soil. The new TDR system developed is light enough for an engineer to carry. Results of the standard compaction and TDR tests on sand showed that the dry densities and the moisture contents measured with the new TDR system were in good agreement with those measured with the standard compaction test, respectively. Consequently, it appears that the new TDR system developed will be very useful to advance the current practice of compaction quality control.

The birthplace of compact groups of galaxies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ramella, Massimo; Diaferio, Antonaldo; Geller, Margaret J.; Huchra, John P.

1994-01-01

We use complete redshift surveys to study the redshift neighborhoods of 38 Hickson compact groups (HCGs). Twenty-nine of these HCGs (76%) are embedded in rich looser systems which we call HCG associations. Analysis of the redshift neighborhood of HCGs outside the CfA survey suggests that most HCGs are embedded in more extended physical systems. Rich loose groups extracted from the CfA survey (Ramella et al. (1994)) have physical properties similar to those of the HCG associations. These rich loose groups often contain compact configurations. N-body experiments (Diaferio (1994)) suggest that compact configurations analogous to HCGs form continually during the collapse of rich loose groups. These observational and numerical results suggest that rich loose groups are the birthplace of HCGs.

Development of Compact Ozonizer with High Ozone Output by Pulsed Power

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tanaka, Fumiaki; Ueda, Satoru; Kouno, Kanako; Sakugawa, Takashi; Akiyama, Hidenori; Kinoshita, Youhei

Conventional ozonizer with a high ozone output using silent or surface discharges needs a cooling system and a dielectric barrier, and therefore becomes a large machine. A compact ozonizer without the cooling system and the dielectric barrier has been developed by using a pulsed power generated discharge. The wire to plane electrodes made of metal have been used. However, the ozone output was low. Here, a compact and high repetition rate pulsed power generator is used as an electric source of a compact ozonizer. The ozone output of 6.1 g/h and the ozone yield of 86 g/kWh are achieved at 500 pulses per second, input average power of 280 W and an air flow rate of 20 L/min.

The new 6 MV multi-nuclide AMS facility at the University of Tsukuba

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sasa, Kimikazu; Takahashi, Tsutomu; Matsumura, Masumi; Matsunaka, Tetsuya; Satou, Yukihiko; Izumi, Daiki; Sueki, Keisuke

2015-10-01

The former accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) system installed on the 12UD Pelletron tandem accelerator at the University of Tsukuba was completely destroyed by the Great East Japan Earthquake on 11 March 2011. A replacement has been designed and constructed at the university as part of the post-quake reconstruction project. It consists of a 6 MV Pelletron tandem accelerator, two multiple cathode AMS ion sources (MC-SNICSs), and a rare-particle detection system. The 6 MV Pelletron tandem accelerator will be applied not only to AMS, but also to areas such as nanotechnology, ion beam analysis, heavy ion irradiation, and nuclear physics. The rare-particle detection system will be capable of measuring environmental levels of long-lived radioisotopes of 10Be, 14C, 26Al, 36Cl, 41Ca, and 129I. It is also expected to measure other radioisotopes such as 32Si and 90Sr. The 6 MV Pelletron tandem accelerator was installed in the spring of 2014 at the University of Tsukuba. Routine beam delivery and AMS experiments will start in 2015.

[Reorganization of blood watch and transfusion safety activities in the Marseille public hospital system in partnership between the French Blood Institute Alps Mediterranean Division (EFS AM)].

PubMed

Lassale, B; Legrand, D; Chiaroni, J

2010-02-01

The Marseille public hospital system (APHM) has expressed its willingness to pool its services of immunohematology and delivery of labile blood products with those of the French blood institute Alps Mediterranean division (EFS AM). An agreement setting out the terms of this partnership was signed between the two parties. The users of the APHM and EFS AM blood watch wished to preserve the channels of distribution. Implementation of this reorganization has focused on ensuring transfusional safety, reinforcing harmonization of APHM practices, and finding ways to reduce costs. Despite joint information campaigns (to medical and paramedical personnel) carried out by the APHM and EFS AM blood watch, problems have arisen during start-up and adjustments have been necessary on both sides. The success of this project hinges on the involvement of the EFS AM in our transfusional practices, deployment of a system for diffusion of information, and consolidation of physical and human resources at the level of the APHM blood watch.

Compact nanosecond laser system for the ignition of aeronautic combustion engines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Amiard-Hudebine, G.; Tison, G.; Freysz, E.

2016-12-01

We have studied and developed a compact nanosecond laser system dedicated to the ignition of aeronautic combustion engines. This system is based on a nanosecond microchip laser delivering 6 μJ nanosecond pulses, which are amplified in two successive stages. The first stage is based on an Ytterbium doped fiber amplifier (YDFA) working in a quasi-continuous-wave (QCW) regime. Pumped at 1 kHz repetition rate, it delivers TEM00 and linearly polarized nanosecond pulses centered at 1064 nm with energies up to 350 μJ. These results are in very good agreement with the model we specially designed for a pulsed QCW pump regime. The second amplification stage is based on a compact Nd:YAG double-pass amplifier pumped by a 400 W peak power QCW diode centered at λ = 808 nm and coupled to a 800 μm core multimode fiber. At 10 Hz repetition rate, this system amplifies the pulse delivered by the YDFA up to 11 mJ while preserving its beam profile, polarization ratio, and pulse duration. Finally, we demonstrate that this compact nanosecond system can ignite an experimental combustion chamber.

Modelling Pasture-based Automatic Milking System Herds: System Fitness of Grazeable Home-grown Forages, Land Areas and Walking Distances

PubMed Central

Islam, M. R.; Garcia, S. C.; Clark, C. E. F.; Kerrisk, K. L.

2015-01-01

To maintain a predominantly pasture-based system, the large herd milked by automatic milking rotary would be required to walk significant distances. Walking distances of greater than 1-km are associated with an increased incidence of undesirably long milking intervals and reduced milk yield. Complementary forages can be incorporated into pasture-based systems to lift total home grown feed in a given area, thus potentially ‘concentrating’ feed closer to the dairy. The aim of this modelling study was to investigate the total land area required and associated walking distance for large automatic milking system (AMS) herds when incorporating complementary forage rotations (CFR) into the system. Thirty-six scenarios consisting of 3 AMS herds (400, 600, 800 cows), 2 levels of pasture utilisation (current AMS utilisation of 15.0 t dry matter [DM]/ha, termed as moderate; optimum pasture utilisation of 19.7 t DM/ha, termed as high) and 6 rates of replacement of each of these pastures by grazeable CFR (0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%) were investigated. Results showed that AMS cows were required to walk greater than 1-km when the farm area was greater than 86 ha. Insufficient pasture could be produced within a 1 km distance (i.e. 86 ha land) with home-grown feed (HGF) providing 43%, 29%, and 22% of the metabolisable energy (ME) required by 400, 600, and 800 cows, respectively from pastures. Introduction of pasture (moderate): CFR in AMS at a ratio of 80:20 can feed a 400 cow AMS herd, and can supply 42% and 31% of the ME requirements for 600 and 800 cows, respectively with pasture (moderate): CFR at 50:50 levels. In contrast to moderate pasture, 400 cows can be managed on high pasture utilisation (provided 57% of the total ME requirements). However, similar to the scenarios conducted with moderate pasture, there was insufficient feed produced within 1-km distance of the dairy for 600 or 800 cows. An 800 cow herd required 140 and 130 ha on moderate and high pasture-based AMS system, respectively with the introduction of pasture: CFR at a ratio of 50:50. Given the impact of increasing land area past 86 ha on walking distance, cow numbers could be increased by purchasing feed from off the milking platform and/or using the land outside 1-km distance for conserved feed. However, this warrants further investigations into risk analyses of different management options including development of an innovative system to manage large herds in an AMS farming system. PMID:25925068

A comprehensive experimental characterization of the iPIX gamma imager

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Amgarou, K.; Paradiso, V.; Patoz, A.; Bonnet, F.; Handley, J.; Couturier, P.; Becker, F.; Menaa, N.

2016-08-01

The results of more than 280 different experiments aimed at exploring the main features and performances of a newly developed gamma imager, called iPIX, are summarized in this paper. iPIX is designed to quickly localize radioactive sources while estimating the ambient dose equivalent rate at the measurement point. It integrates a 1 mm thick CdTe detector directly bump-bonded to a Timepix chip, a tungsten coded-aperture mask, and a mini RGB camera. It also represents a major technological breakthrough in terms of lightness, compactness, usability, response sensitivity, and angular resolution. As an example of its key strengths, an 241Am source with a dose rate of only few nSv/h can be localized in less than one minute.

Compact anhydrous HCl to aqueous HCl conversion system

DOEpatents

Grossman, M.W.; Speer, R.

1993-06-01

The present invention is directed to an inexpensive and compact apparatus adapted for use with a [sup 196]Hg isotope separation process and the conversion of anhydrous HCl to aqueous HCl without the use of air flow to carry the HCl vapor into the converter system.

Development of a new compact intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging system: concept and initial experience.

PubMed

Morita, Akio; Sameshima, Tetsuro; Sora, Shigeo; Kimura, Toshikazu; Nishimura, Kengo; Itoh, Hirotaka; Shibahashi, Keita; Shono, Naoyuki; Machida, Toru; Hara, Naoko; Mikami, Nozomi; Harihara, Yasushi; Kawate, Ryoichi; Ochiai, Chikayuki; Wang, Weimin; Oguro, Toshiki

2014-06-01

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) during surgery has been shown to improve surgical outcomes, but the current intraoperative MRI systems are too large to install in standard operating suites. Although 1 compact system is available, its imaging quality is not ideal. We developed a new compact intraoperative MRI system and evaluated its use for safety and efficacy. This new system has a magnetic gantry: a permanent magnet of 0.23 T and an interpolar distance of 32 cm. The gantry system weighs 2.8 tons and the 5-G line is within the circle of 2.6 m. We created a new field-of-view head coil and a canopy-style radiofrequency shield for this system. A clinical trial was initiated, and the system has been used in 44 patients. This system is significantly smaller than previous intraoperative MRI systems. High-quality T2 images could discriminate tumor from normal brain tissue and identify anatomic landmarks for accurate surgery. The average imaging time was 45.5 minutes, and no clinical complications or MRI system failures occurred. Floating organisms or particles were minimal (1/200 L maximum). This intraoperative, compact, low-magnetic-field MRI system can be installed in standard operating suites to provide relatively high-quality images without sacrificing safety. We believe that such a system facilitates the introduction of the intraoperative MRI.

Low-cost compact MEMS scanning ladar system for robotic applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moss, Robert; Yuan, Ping; Bai, Xiaogang; Quesada, Emilio; Sudharsanan, Rengarajan; Stann, Barry L.; Dammann, John F.; Giza, Mark M.; Lawler, William B.

2012-06-01

Future robots and autonomous vehicles require compact low-cost Laser Detection and Ranging (LADAR) systems for autonomous navigation. Army Research Laboratory (ARL) had recently demonstrated a brass-board short-range eye-safe MEMS scanning LADAR system for robotic applications. Boeing Spectrolab is doing a tech-transfer (CRADA) of this system and has built a compact MEMS scanning LADAR system with additional improvements in receiver sensitivity, laser system, and data processing system. Improved system sensitivity, low-cost, miniaturization, and low power consumption are the main goals for the commercialization of this LADAR system. The receiver sensitivity has been improved by 2x using large-area InGaAs PIN detectors with low-noise amplifiers. The FPGA code has been updated to extend the range to 50 meters and detect up to 3 targets per pixel. Range accuracy has been improved through the implementation of an optical T-Zero input line. A compact commercially available erbium fiber laser operating at 1550 nm wavelength is used as a transmitter, thus reducing the size of the LADAR system considerably from the ARL brassboard system. The computer interface has been consolidated to allow image data and configuration data (configuration settings and system status) to pass through a single Ethernet port. In this presentation we will discuss the system architecture and future improvements to receiver sensitivity using avalanche photodiodes.

Chronic cannabinoid receptor 2 activation reverses paclitaxel neuropathy without tolerance or cannabinoid receptor 1-dependent withdrawal.

PubMed

Deng, Liting; Guindon, Josée; Cornett, Benjamin L; Makriyannis, Alexandros; Mackie, Ken; Hohmann, Andrea G

2015-03-01

Mixed cannabinoid receptor 1 and 2 (CB1 and CB2) agonists such as Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ(9)-THC) can produce tolerance, physical withdrawal, and unwanted CB1-mediated central nervous system side effects. Whether repeated systemic administration of a CB2-preferring agonist engages CB1 receptors or produces CB1-mediated side effects is unknown. We evaluated antiallodynic efficacy, possible tolerance, and cannabimimetic side effects of repeated dosing with a CB2-preferring agonist AM1710 in a model of chemotherapy-induced neuropathy produced by paclitaxel using CB1 knockout (CB1KO), CB2 knockout (CB2KO), and wild-type (WT) mice. Comparisons were made with the prototypic classic cannabinoid Δ(9)-THC. We also explored the site and possible mechanism of action of AM1710. Paclitaxel-induced mechanical and cold allodynia developed to an equivalent degree in CB1KO, CB2KO, and WT mice. Both AM1710 and Δ(9)-THC suppressed established paclitaxel-induced allodynia in WT mice. In contrast to Δ(9)-THC, chronic administration of AM1710 did not engage CB1 activity or produce antinociceptive tolerance, CB1-mediated cannabinoid withdrawal, hypothermia, or motor dysfunction. Antiallodynic efficacy of systemic administration of AM1710 was absent in CB2KO mice and WT mice receiving the CB2 antagonist AM630, administered either systemically or intrathecally. Intrathecal administration of AM1710 also attenuated paclitaxel-induced allodynia in WT mice, but not CB2KO mice, implicating a possible role for spinal CB2 receptors in AM1710 antiallodynic efficacy. Finally, both acute and chronic administration of AM1710 decreased messenger RNA levels of tumor necrosis factor-α and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 in lumbar spinal cord of paclitaxel-treated WT mice. Our results highlight the potential of prolonged use of CB2 agonists for managing chemotherapy-induced allodynia with a favorable therapeutic ratio marked by sustained efficacy and absence of tolerance, physical withdrawal, or CB1-mediated side effects. Copyright © 2015 Society of Biological Psychiatry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

An integrated data-analysis and database system for AMS 14C

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kjeldsen, Henrik; Olsen, Jesper; Heinemeier, Jan

2010-04-01

AMSdata is the name of a combined database and data-analysis system for AMS 14C and stable-isotope work that has been developed at Aarhus University. The system (1) contains routines for data analysis of AMS and MS data, (2) allows a flexible and accurate description of sample extraction and pretreatment, also when samples are split into several fractions, and (3) keeps track of all measured, calculated and attributed data. The structure of the database is flexible and allows an unlimited number of measurement and pretreatment procedures. The AMS 14C data analysis routine is fairly advanced and flexible, and it can be easily optimized for different kinds of measuring processes. Technically, the system is based on a Microsoft SQL server and includes stored SQL procedures for the data analysis. Microsoft Office Access is used for the (graphical) user interface, and in addition Excel, Word and Origin are exploited for input and output of data, e.g. for plotting data during data analysis.

Compaction managed mirror bend achromat

DOEpatents

Douglas, David [Yorktown, VA

2005-10-18

A method for controlling the momentum compaction in a beam of charged particles. The method includes a compaction-managed mirror bend achromat (CMMBA) that provides a beamline design that retains the large momentum acceptance of a conventional mirror bend achromat. The CMMBA also provides the ability to tailor the system momentum compaction spectrum as desired for specific applications. The CMMBA enables magnetostatic management of the longitudinal phase space in Energy Recovery Linacs (ERLs) thereby alleviating the need for harmonic linearization of the RF waveform.

Classifying and Finding Nearby Compact Stellar Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Colebaugh, Alexander; Cunningham, Devin; Dixon, Christopher; Romanowsky, Aaron; Striegel, Stephanie

2018-01-01

Compact stellar systems (CSSs) such as compact ellipticals (cEs) and ultracompact dwarfs (UCDs) are relatively rare and poorly understood types of galaxies. To build a more complete picture of these objects, we create search queries using the Sloan Digital Sky Survey, to inventory CSSs in the nearby universe and to explore their properties. We develop an objective set of criteria for classifying cEs, and use these to construct a large, novel catalog of cEs both during and after formation. We also investigate the numbers of cEs and UCDs around nearby giant galaxies.

A Compact Prototype of an Optical Pattern Recognition System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jin, Y.; Liu, H. K.; Marzwell, N. I.

1996-01-01

In the Technology 2006 Case Studies/Success Stories presentation, we will describe and demonstrate a prototype of a compact optical pattern recognition system as an example of a successful technology transfer and continuuing development of state-of-the-art know-how by the close collaboration among government, academia, and small business via the NASA SBIR program. The prototype consists of a complete set of optical pattern recognition hardware with multi-channel storage and retrieval capability that is compactly configured inside a portable 1'X 2'X 3' aluminum case.

KSC-05PD-0180

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2005-01-01

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. An employee at the Space Station Processing Facility monitors engineering certification testing of the Alpha Magnetic spectrometer (AMS). The AMS is a superconducting magnet that will be used in an experiment from the International Space Station (ISS) to search for antimatter and dark matter in space. The testing is being performed to ensure that data flow from the external payload AMS and the internal AMS crew operation post can be successfully routed through the ISS systems.

KSC-05PD-0181

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2005-01-01

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. An employee at the Space Station Processing Facility performs engineering certification testing of the Alpha Magnetic spectrometer (AMS). The AMS is a superconducting magnet that will be used in an experiment from the International Space Station (ISS) to search for antimatter and dark matter in space. The testing is being performed to ensure that data flow from the external payload AMS and the internal AMS crew operation post can be successfully routed through the ISS systems.

KSC-05PD-0182

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2005-01-01

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. An employee at the Space Station Processing Facility performs engineering certification testing of the Alpha Magnetic spectrometer (AMS). The AMS is a superconducting magnet that will be used in an experiment from the International Space Station (ISS) to search for antimatter and dark matter in space. The testing is being performed to ensure that data flow from the external payload AMS and the internal AMS crew operation post can be successfully routed through the ISS systems.

Two-step design method for highly compact three-dimensional freeform optical system for LED surface light source.

PubMed

Mao, Xianglong; Li, Hongtao; Han, Yanjun; Luo, Yi

2014-10-20

Designing an illumination system for a surface light source with a strict compactness requirement is quite challenging, especially for the general three-dimensional (3D) case. In accordance with the two key features of an expected illumination distribution, i.e., a well-controlled boundary and a precise illumination pattern, a two-step design method is proposed in this paper for highly compact 3D freeform illumination systems. In the first step, a target shape scaling strategy is combined with an iterative feedback modification algorithm to generate an optimized freeform optical system with a well-controlled boundary of the target distribution. In the second step, a set of selected radii of the system obtained in the first step are optimized to further improve the illuminating quality within the target region. The method is quite flexible and effective to design highly compact optical systems with almost no restriction on the shape of the desired target field. As examples, three highly compact freeform lenses with ratio of center height h of the lens and the maximum dimension D of the source ≤ 2.5:1 are designed for LED surface light sources to form a uniform illumination distribution on a rectangular, a cross-shaped and a complex cross pierced target plane respectively. High light control efficiency of η > 0.7 as well as low relative standard illumination deviation of RSD < 0.07 is obtained simultaneously for all the three design examples.

78 FR 60182 - Prevailing Rate Systems; Definition of Broward County, Florida, to a Nonappropriated Fund Federal...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-10-01

... OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT 5 CFR Part 532 RIN 3206-AM83 Prevailing Rate Systems; Definition of..., nonappropriated fund (NAF) Federal Wage System (FWS) wage area. This change is necessary because there are three... Beach * * * * * [FR Doc. 2013-23867 Filed 9-30-13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6325-39-P ...

Assessment of Alphamagnetic Spectrometer (AMS) Upper Experiment Structural Configuration Shielding Effectiveness Associated with Change from Cryo-Cooled Magnet to Permanent Magnet

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Scully, Robert

2012-01-01

In the spring of 2010, the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer 2 (AMS-02) underwent a series of system level electromagnetic interference control measurements, followed by thermal vacuum testing. Shortly after completion of the thermal vacuum testing, the project decided to remove the cryogenically cooled superconducting magnet, and replace it with the original permanent magnet design employed in the earlier AMS- 01 assembly. Doing so necessitated several structural changes, as well as removal or modification of numerous electronic and thermal control devices and systems. At this stage, the project was rapidly approaching key milestone dates for hardware completion and delivery for launch, and had little time for additional testing or assessment of any impact to the electromagnetic signature of the AMS-02. Therefore, an analytical assessment of the radiated emissions behavioural changes associated with the system changes was requested.

Minimal measures on surfaces of higher genus

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Fang

We study the minimal measures for positive definite autonomous Lagrangian systems defined on the tangent bundles of compact surfaces with genus greater than one. We present some results on the structure of minimal measures on compact surfaces. Specifically, we give a finer description of the structure of minimal measures with rational rotation vectors for geodesic flows on compact surfaces.

Investigation and development of a non-destructive system to evaluate critical properties of asphalt pavements during the compaction process.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-10-01

The purpose of this report is to present findings from a two-stage investigation to develop a non-destructive system to : evaluate critical properties and characteristics of asphalt pavements during the compaction process. The first stage aligned : c...

Effects of Mycorrhizae on Carbon Cycling in Response to Extreme Drought

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ficken, C. D.; Warren, J.

2016-12-01

Plant-mycorrhizal symbioses are being increasingly accepted as drivers of ecosystem-level biogeochemical patterns and play an important role plant resource acquisition. Although some evidence suggests that mycorrhizal association increases plant drought-tolerance, direct comparisons of drought-resilience between mycorrhizal groups (i.e. arbuscular and ectomycorrhizal) are lacking. Indeed, soil CO2 pulses following dry-wet cycles are detectable at the ecosystem scale, but it remains unclear whether these pulses are driven by the activity of mycorrhizae or free-living microbes. These knowledge gaps hinder our ability to predict CO2 fluxes in the face of increased precipitation variability and have broad implications for understanding plant performance during, and recovery following, drought. We predicted that arbuscular mycorrhizae (AM) would be more resilient to drought than ectomycorrhizae (ECM) because narrower AM hyphae may access water from smaller soil pores and because AM produce a glycoprotein that increases soil aggregation. To compare the functioning of AM and ECM throughout drought, we examined soil respiration dynamics between AM- and ECM-dominated mesocosms throughout moderate and extreme drought. Mesocosms were partitioned with mesh dividers into chambers (roots+hyphae+microbes; hyphae+microbes; microbes only) to compare the relative functioning of biotic pools throughout drought. We found that respiration responses to drought differed substantially between AM and ECM-dominated systems. Under dry conditions, respiration from both root- and hyphal-exclusion chambers did not differ between AM and ECM mesocosms. In contrast, under wet conditions, respiration was significantly greater from AM than ECM mesocosms. Following rewetting, the respiration pulse in AM systems was largely due to to free-living microbes (+330% C flux above dry conditions), whereas in ECM systems there was a proportionally greater increase from mycorrhizal chambers (+130%). This suggests, in contrast to our predictions, that ECM fungi are more resilient to drought and are an important driver of C flux following rewetting.

76 FR 50811 - Seventeenth Meeting: EUROCAE WG-72: RTCA Special Committee 216: Aeronautical Systems Security...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-08-16

.... Agenda Tuesday, September 6th (Pre-Meeting Events) 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Optional--DHS National Cybersecurity... cooperation. 11:15 a.m.-12 p.m., DHS Briefing on the Cybersecurity Control System Security (CSSP) Program. 1 p...

Objective Quality Control of Artillery Computer Meteorological Messages.

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-04-01

Veazey , 1977, Proposed AMS-A for Corps TACFIRE (PACT) System Description, ASL Internal Report, White Sands Missile Range, NM 6 1nclosure 1, "Software...R. Veazey , 1977, Proposed AMS-A for Corps TACFIRE (PACT) System Description, ASL Internal Report, Atmospheric Sciences Laboratory, White Sands Missile

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

Richardson, B.; Robinson, B.; Mosher, T.

From 1982 through 1986, Philadelphia Electric Company (PECo) hosted the test of a communication system proposed for distribution automation and load management. The system included a utility control center (UCC), a broadcast interface unit in the AM station transmitter, and receiving units. To implement two-way communications, transmitters operating in the VHF spectrum at 154.463750 MHz were coupled with AM receivers. The VHF signal was received by four central receivers installed in the PECo service territory, and communicated to the UCC by either microwave or telephone links. The AM carrier signal provided communications and a synchronous time reference for the communicationmore » system. Station WCAU, 1210 kHz, was the broadcaster for the test. The test results confirmed the effectiveness of the AM broadcast link. However, in this particular implementation, the VHF link fell short of both expectation and acceptablity for return-path communications. The data is summarized and discussed in Volume I, and presented with additional detail in Volume II. A communications system consultant developed analytical models for the AM and VHF signal paths, and analyzed the data with respect to the models. Volume I of the two-volume report describes the communications system in general, presents the major data interpretations and conclusions, and describes the chronology and background for the project. It must be read and understood as a prerequisite for studying the information in Volume II. 14 figs., 1 tab.« less

Quantifying and overcoming bioturbation in marine sediment cores: dual 14C and δ18O analysis on single foraminifera

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lougheed, Bryan; Metcalfe, Brett; Wacker, Lukas

2017-04-01

Marine sediment cores used in palaeoceanography form the basis of our current understanding of past global climate and ocean chemistry. Precision and accuracy of geochronological control in these sediment cores are crucial in unravelling the timing of rapid shifts in palaeoclimate and, ultimately, the interdependency of global climate mechanisms and their causality. Aware of the problems associated with bioturbation (the mixing of ocean sediments by benthic organisms) palaeoceanographers generally aim to retrieve sediment cores from locations with high sediment accumulation rates, thus minimising the influence of bioturbation as much as possible. However, the practice of concentrating only on areas of the ocean floor with high sedimentation accumulation rates has the potential to introduce a geographical bias into our understanding of global palaeoclimate. For example, global time averaged sediment accumulation rates for the ocean floor (excluding continental margins) indicate that vast areas of the ocean floor have sediment accumulation rates less than the recommended minimum advised sediment accumulation rates of 10 cm/ka or greater. Whilst many studies have focussed on quantifying the impact of bioturbation on our understanding of the past, few have attempted to overcome the problems associated with bioturbation. Recent pioneering developments in 14C AMS at the Laboratory of Ion Beam Physics at ETH Zürich have led to the development of the Mini Carbon Dating System (MICADAS). This compact 14C AMS system can be coupled to a carbonate handling system, thus enabling the direct AMS measurement of gaseous samples, i.e. without graphitisation, allowing for the analysis of carbonate samples of <100 μg. Likewise, while earlier isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) technology required a minimum of 100 μg of carbonate to produce a successful δ18O measurement, more recent advances in IRMS technology have made routine measurements of as little as 5 μg possible. Combining both analytical techniques enables palaeoclimate reconstructions that are independent of depth. Here, we present work on a low sedimentation core ( 2 cm/ka) core in the North Atlantic (core T86-10P, 37° 8.13' N, 29° 59.15' W) on single shells of the benthic species of foraminifera, Cibicidoides wuellerstorfi. Preliminary downcore single specimen 14C data display a large scatter in 14C ages for the various discrete 1 cm depth intervals analysed. In the case of depth intervals where three or more single specimens have been analysed, we find that the standard deviation in 14C age varies between 1210 and 9437 14C yr, with the mean variation for all such discrete depths being 3384 14C yr.

A prototype fully polarimetric 160-GHz bistatic ISAR compact radar range

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Beaudoin, C. J.; Horgan, T.; DeMartinis, G.; Coulombe, M. J.; Goyette, T.; Gatesman, A. J.; Nixon, William E.

2017-05-01

We present a prototype bistatic compact radar range operating at 160 GHz and capable of collecting fullypolarimetric radar cross-section and electromagnetic scattering measurements in a true far-field facility. The bistatic ISAR system incorporates two 90-inch focal length, 27-inch-diameter diamond-turned mirrors fed by 160 GHz transmit and receive horns to establish the compact range. The prototype radar range with its modest sized quiet zone serves as a precursor to a fully developed compact radar range incorporating a larger quiet zone capable of collecting X-band bistatic RCS data and 3D imagery using 1/16th scale objects. The millimeter-wave transmitter provides 20 GHz of swept bandwidth in the single linear (Horizontal/Vertical) polarization while the millimeter-wave receiver, that is sensitive to linear Horizontal and Vertical polarization, possesses a 7 dB noise figure. We present the design of the compact radar range and report on test results collected to validate the system's performance.

MODFLOW Ground-Water Model - User Guide to the Subsidence and Aquifer-System Compaction Package (SUB-WT) for Water-Table Aquifers

USGS Publications Warehouse

Leake, S.A.; Galloway, D.L.

2007-01-01

A new computer program was developed to simulate vertical compaction in models of regional ground-water flow. The program simulates ground-water storage changes and compaction in discontinuous interbeds or in extensive confining units, accounting for stress-dependent changes in storage properties. The new program is a package for MODFLOW, the U.S. Geological Survey modular finite-difference ground-water flow model. Several features of the program make it useful for application in shallow, unconfined flow systems. Geostatic stress can be treated as a function of water-table elevation, and compaction is a function of computed changes in effective stress at the bottom of a model layer. Thickness of compressible sediments in an unconfined model layer can vary in proportion to saturated thickness.

Stability and Control. Volume 2. Stability and Control Flight Test Theory

DTIC Science & Technology

1974-07-01

e we have 2 mx , . mx , mx n am e + bme + ce = 0 or (am2 + bm + c)emx = 0 (1.21) mx , n Since e ? 0...1.97) (1.98) Substituting 2 mt , , mt , mt n am e + bme + ce =0 (1.99) and emt (am2 + bm + c) =0 (1.100) led us to assert that 1.98 would...derive Laplace transforms each time we use them. Extensive tables of transforms exist in most advanced mathe- matics and control system textbooks . We

Impact of Steep-Front Short-Duration Impulse on Electric Power System Insulation. Phase 2. Laboratory Evaluation of Selected Power System Components

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-04-01

SEALS - _------ OIL LEVEL STAINLESS STEEL INDICATOR EXPANSION CHAMBER MULTIPLE COMPRESSION GASKET SPRINGS CONDUCTOR RO) UPPER PORCELAIN_ OIL...GENERATED WAVEFORM) FIELD Electric (E) 40 kV/m 50 kV/m 10 kV/m STRENGTH ( FREE SPACE) Magnetic(M) 300 A/m 1000 A/m 300 A/m Rise time 20-500 ns 10 ns 10 ns...Laboratory Interaction Note IN435, 1983. 4. P. R_ Barnes, "The Axial Current Induced on an Infinitely Long, Perfectly Conducting, Circular Cylinder in Free

Additively Manufactured Metals in Oxygen Systems Project

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tylka, Jonathan

2015-01-01

Metals produced by additive manufacturing methods, such as Powder Bed Fusion Technology, are now mature enough to be considered for qualification in human spaceflight oxygen systems. The mechanical properties of metals produced through AM processes are being systematically studied. However, it is unknown whether AM metals in oxygen applications may present an increased risk of flammability or ignition as compared to wrought metals of the same metallurgical composition due to increased porosity. Per NASA-STD-6001B materials to be used in oxygen system applications shall be based on flammability and combustion test data, followed by a flammability assessment. Without systematic flammability and ignition testing in oxygen there is no credible method for NASA to accurately evaluate the risk of using AM metals in oxygen systems.

The Earth Observing System AM Spacecraft - Thermal Control Subsystem

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chalmers, D.; Fredley, J.; Scott, C.

1993-01-01

Mission requirements for the EOS-AM Spacecraft intended to monitor global changes of the entire earth system are considered. The spacecraft is based on an instrument set containing the Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection radiometer (ASTER), Clouds and Earth's Radiant Energy System (CERES), Multiangle Imaging Spectro-Radiometer (MISR), Moderate-Resolution Imaging Spectrometer (MODIS), and Measurements of Pollution in the Troposphere (MOPITT). Emphasis is placed on the design, analysis, development, and verification plans for the unique EOS-AM Thermal Control Subsystem (TCS) aimed at providing the required environments for all the onboard equipment in a densely packed layout. The TCS design maximizes the use of proven thermal design techniques and materials, in conjunction with a capillary pumped two-phase heat transport system for instrument thermal control.

Various forms of organic and inorganic P fertilizers did not negatively affect soil- and root-inhabiting AM fungi in a maize-soybean rotation system.

PubMed

Beauregard, M S; Gauthier, M-P; Hamel, C; Zhang, T; Welacky, T; Tan, C S; St-Arnaud, M

2013-02-01

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi are key components of most agricultural ecosystems. Therefore, understanding the impact of agricultural practices on their community structure is essential to improve nutrient mobilization and reduce plant stress in the field. The effects of five different organic or mineral sources of phosphorus (P) for a maize-soybean rotation system on AM fungal diversity in roots and soil were assessed over a 3-year period. Total DNA was extracted from root and soil samples collected at three different plant growth stages. An 18S rRNA gene fragment was amplified and taxa were detected and identified using denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis followed by sequencing. AM fungal biomass was estimated by fatty acid methyl ester analysis. Soil P fertility parameters were also monitored and analyzed for possible changes related with fertilization or growth stages. Seven AM fungal ribotypes were detected. Fertilization significantly modified soil P flux, but had barely any effect on AM fungi community structure or biomass. There was no difference in the AM fungal community between plant growth stages. Specific ribotypes could not be significantly associated to P treatment. Ribotypes were associated with root or soil samples with variable detection frequencies between seasons. AM fungal biomass remained stable throughout the growing seasons. This study demonstrated that roots and soil host distinct AM fungal communities and that these are very temporally stable. The influence of contrasting forms of P fertilizers was not significant over 3 years of crop rotation.

Immunoadjuvant Chemotherapy of Visceral Leishmaniasis in Hamsters Using Amphotericin B-Encapsulated Nanoemulsion Template-Based Chitosan Nanocapsules

PubMed Central

Asthana, Shalini; Jaiswal, Anil K.; Gupta, Pramod K.; Pawar, Vivek K.; Dube, Anuradha

2013-01-01

The accessible treatment options for life-threatening neglected visceral leishmaniasis (VL) disease have problems with efficacy, stability, adverse effects, and cost, making treatment a complex issue. Here we formulated nanometric amphotericin B (AmB)-encapsulated chitosan nanocapsules (CNC-AmB) using a polymer deposition technique mediated by nanoemulsion template fabrication. CNC-AmB exhibited good steric stability in vitro, where the chitosan content was found to be efficient at preventing destabilization in the presence of protein and Ca2+. A toxicity study on the model cell line J774A and erythrocytes revealed that CNC-AmB was less toxic than commercialized AmB formulations such as Fungizone and AmBisome. The results of in vitro (macrophage-amastigote system; 50% inhibitory concentration [IC50], 0.19 ± 0.04 μg AmB/ml) and in vivo (Leishmania donovani-infected hamsters; 86.1% ± 2.08% parasite inhibition) experiments in conjunction with effective internalization by macrophages illustrated the efficacy of CNC-AmB at augmenting antileishmanial properties. Quantitative mRNA analysis by real-time PCR (RT-PCR) showed that the improved effect was synergized with the upregulation of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-12 (IL-12), and inducible nitric oxide synthase and with the downregulation of transforming growth factor β (TGF-β), IL-10, and IL-4. These research findings suggest that a cost-effective CNC-AmB immunoadjuvant chemotherapeutic delivery system could be a viable alternative to the current high-cost commercial lipid-based formulations. PMID:23357762

High Purity Americium-241 for Fuel Cycle R&D Program

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

Dr. Paul A. Lessing

2011-07-01

Previously the U.S. Department of Energy released Am-241 for various applications such as smoke detectors and Am-Be neutron sources for oil wells. At this date there is a shortage of usable, higher purity Am-241 in metal and oxide form available in the United States. Recently, the limited source of Am-241 has been from Russia with production being contracted to existing customers. The shortage has resulted in the price per gram rising dramatically over the last few years. DOE-NE currently has need for high purity Am-241 metal and oxide to fabricate fuel pellets for reactor testing in the Fuel Cycle R&Dmore » program. All the available high purity americium has been gathered from within the DOE system of laboratories. However, this is only a fraction of the projected needs of FCRD over the next 10 years. Therefore, FCR&D has proposed extraction and purification concepts to extract Am-241 from a mixed AmO2-PuO2 feedstock stored at the Savannah River Site. The most simple extraction system is based upon high temperature reduction using lanthanum metal with concurrent evaporation and condensation to produce high purity Am metal. Metallic americium has over a four order of magnitude higher vapor pressure than plutonium. Results from small-scale reduction experiments are presented. These results confirm thermodynamic predictions that at 1000 deg C metallic lanthanum reduces both PuO2 and AmO2. Faster kinetics are expected for temperatures up to about 1500 deg C.« less

A long-term soil structure observatory for post-compaction soil structure evolution: design and initial soil structure recovery observations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Keller, Thomas; Colombi, Tino; Ruiz, Siul; Grahm, Lina; Reiser, René; Rek, Jan; Oberholzer, Hans-Rudolf; Schymanski, Stanislaus; Walter, Achim; Or, Dani

2016-04-01

Soil compaction due to agricultural vehicular traffic alters the geometrical arrangement of soil constituents, thereby modifying mechanical properties and pore spaces that affect a range of soil hydro-ecological functions. The ecological and economic costs of soil compaction are dependent on the immediate impact on soil functions during the compaction event, and a function of the recovery time. In contrast to a wealth of soil compaction information, mechanisms and rates of soil structure recovery remain largely unknown. A long-term (>10-yr) soil structure observatory (SSO) was established in 2014 on a loamy soil in Zurich, Switzerland, to quantify rates and mechanisms of structure recovery of compacted arable soil under different post-compaction management treatments. We implemented three initial compaction treatments (using a two-axle agricultural vehicle with 8 Mg wheel load): compaction of the entire plot area (i.e. track-by-track), compaction in wheel tracks, and no compaction. After compaction, we implemented four post-compaction soil management systems: bare soil (BS), permanent grass (PG), crop rotation without mechanical loosening (NT), and crop rotation under conventional tillage (CT). BS and PG provide insights into uninterrupted natural processes of soil structure regeneration under reduced (BS) and normal biological activity (PG). The two cropping systems (NT and CT) enable insights into soil structure recovery under common agricultural practices with minimal (NT) and conventional mechanical soil disturbance (CT). Observations include periodic sampling and measurements of soil physical properties, earthworm abundance, crop measures, electrical resistivity and ground penetrating radar imaging, and continuous monitoring of state variables - soil moisture, temperature, CO2 and O2 concentrations, redox potential and oxygen diffusion rates - for which a network of sensors was installed at various depths (0-1 m). Initial compaction increased soil bulk density to about half a metre, decreased gas and water transport functions (air permeability, gas diffusivity, saturated hydraulic conductivity), and increased mechanical impedance. Water infiltration at the soil surface was initially reduced by three orders of magnitude, but significantly recovered within a year. However, within the soil profile, recovery of transport properties is much smaller. Air permeability tended to recover more than gas diffusivity, suggesting that initial post-compaction recovery is initiated by new macropores (e.g. biopores). Tillage recovered topsoil bulk density but not topsoil transport functions. Compaction changed grass species composition in PG, and significantly reduced grass biomass in PG and crop yields in NT and CT.

Development of a High Reliability Compact Air Independent PEMFC Power System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vasquez, Arturo; Wynne, Bob

2013-01-01

Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUV's) have received increasing attention in recent years as military and commercial users look for means to maintain a mobile and persistent presence in the undersea world. Compact, neutrally buoyant power systems are needed for both small and large vehicles. Historically, batteries have been employed in these applications, but the energy density and therefore mission duration are limited with current battery technologies. Vehicles with stored energy requirements greater than approximately 10 kWh have an alternate means to get long duration power. High efficiency Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cell systems utilizing pure hydrogen and oxygen reactants show the potential for an order of magnitude energy density improvement over batteries as long as the subsystems are compact. One key aspect to achieving a compact and energy dense system is the design of the fuel cell balance of plant (BOP). Recent fuel cell work, initially focused on NASA applications requiring high reliability, has developed systems that can meet target power and energy densities. Passive flow through systems using ejector driven reactant (EDR) circulation have been developed to provide high reactant flow and water management within the stack, with minimal parasitic losses compared to blowers. The ejectors and recirculation loops, along with valves and other BOP instrumentation, have been incorporated within the stack end plate. In addition, components for water management and reactant conditioning have been incorporated within the stack to further minimize the BOP. These BOP systems are thermally and functionally integrated into the stack hardware and fit into the small volumes required for AUV and future NASA applications to maximize the volume available for reactants. These integrated systems provide a compact solution for the fuel cell BOP and maximize the efficiency and reliability of the system. Designs have been developed for multiple applications ranging from less than 1 kWe to 70 kWe. These systems occupy a very small portion of the overall energy system, allowing most of the system volume to be used for reactants. The fuel cell systems have been optimized to use reactants efficiently with high stack efficiency and low parasitic losses. The resulting compact, highly efficient fuel cell system provides exceptional reactant utilization and energy density. Key design variables and supporting test data are presented. Future development activities are described.

Selection of Additive Manufacturing (AM) Equipment

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-04-01

in the design , test, and fabrication of the systems within the AMRDEC portfolio. 14. SUBJECT TERMS Additive Manufacturing (AM), Fused Deposition...tools in the design and development of AMRDEC products .   Figure 1. Stratasys Objet Connex3 [1] While these machines and technologies have...TECHNICAL REPORT RDMR-WD-16-87 SELECTION OF ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING (AM) EQUIPMENT Lance E. Hall Weapons Development

41 CFR 302-3.207 - Am I eligible to receive relocation allowances for overseas assignment and return travel?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 4 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Am I eligible to receive... and Property Management Federal Travel Regulation System RELOCATION ALLOWANCES RELOCATION ALLOWANCES 3-RELOCATION ALLOWANCE BY SPECIFIC TYPE Types of Transfers Overseas Assignment and Return § 302-3.207 Am I...

Convection-enhanced delivery of a synthetic retinoid Am80, loaded into polymeric micelles, prolongs the survival of rats bearing intracranial glioblastoma xenografts.

PubMed

Yokosawa, Michiko; Sonoda, Yukihiko; Sugiyama, Shin-ichiro; Saito, Ryuta; Yamashita, Yoji; Nishihara, Masamichi; Satoh, Taku; Kumabe, Toshihiro; Yokoyama, Masayuki; Tominaga, Teiji

2010-08-01

Prognosis for the patients with glioblastoma, the most common malignant brain tumor, remains dismal. A major barrier to progress in treatment of glioblastoma is the relative inaccessibility of tumors to chemotherapeutic agents. Convection-enhanced delivery (CED) is a direct intracranial drug infusion technique to deliver chemotherapeutic agents to the central nervous system, circumventing the blood-brain barrier and reducing systemic side effects. CED can provide wider distribution of infused agents compared to simple diffusion. We have reported that CED of a polymeric micelle carrier system could yield a clinically relevant distribution of encapsulated agents in the rat brain. Our aim was to evaluate the efficacy of CED of polymeric micellar Am80, a synthetic agonist with high affinity to nuclear retinoic acid receptor, in a rat model of glioblastoma xenografts. We also used systemic administration of temozolomide, a DNA-alkylating agent, which has been established as the standard of care for newly diagnosed malignant glioma. U87MG human glioma cells were injected into the cerebral hemisphere of nude rats. Rats bearing U87MG xenografts were treated with CED of micellar Am80 (2.4 mg/m(2)) on day 7 after tumor implantation. Temozolomide (200 mg/m(2)/day) was intraperitoneally administered daily for 5 days, starting on day 7 after tumor implantation. CED of micellar Am80 provided significantly longer survival than the control. The combination of CED of micellar Am80 and systemic administration of temozolomide provided significantly longer survival than single treatment. In conclusion, temozolomide combined with CED of micellar Am80 may be a promising method for the treatment of malignant gliomas.

Demographics, farm and reproductive management strategies used in Australian automatic milking systems compared with regionally proximal conventional milking systems.

PubMed

Keeper, D M; Kerrisk, K L; House, J K; Garcia, S C; Thomson, P

2017-09-01

To determine the management practices utilised in automatic milking systems (AMS) that affect reproductive management and performance and how these compare with the management practices used in regionally proximal conventional milking systems (CMS). This study examined demographic and management data from AMS and CMS dairy farms through a survey, with a specific focus on reproductive management procedures. Overall, responses from AMS and CMS dairy farms showed little difference in terms of respondent demographics, farm size, herd structure and most farm management strategies. AMS dairies were more likely to use activity meters or other electronic oestrus detection aids than CMS dairies (P < 0.001) and were also more likely to have changed to electronic recording systems (P = 0.007). Although many respondents indicated that they used key monitoring parameters to assess reproductive performance (e.g. days in milk, conception vs pregnancy rate etc.), the format of responses varied significantly, indicating a relatively widespread (among the respondents) lack of knowledge regarding the meaning and usage of some of these common parameters/terminology. Ultimately, reproductive management practices of AMS dairies were largely similar to those of CMS dairies, indicating that such practices can be implemented in a practical sense, even though the resultant reproductive performance is not yet understood. Understanding that the key reproductive management strategies do not need to change vastly is important to ensure that new adoptees are well informed. Further work is needed to objectively measure AMS performance to increase the knowledge base and generate the confidence that will facilitate further adoption of this innovation. © 2017 Australian Veterinary Association.

Paracetamol potentiates the antidepressant-like and anticompulsive-like effects of fluoxetine.

PubMed

Manna, Shyamshree S S; Umathe, Sudhir N

2015-04-01

Recent studies suggest the possible involvement of serotonergic and endocannabinoid systems in analgesic, anxiolytic, and anticonvulsant-like actions of paracetamol. Considering the fact that these systems play intricate roles in affective disorders, we investigated the effects of paracetamol in depression-like and compulsion-like behavior. Swiss mice (20-22 g) were subjected to forced swim, tail suspension, or marble-burying tests after an injection of paracetamol either alone or in the presence of AM251 (a CB1 antagonist), fenclonine (pCPA: a 5-HT synthesis inhibitor), AM404 (anandamide uptake inhibitor) or fluoxetine. Paracetamol dose dependently (50-400 mg/kg) decreased depressive and compulsive behaviors. These effects were comparable to those of fluoxetine (5, 10, or 20 mg/kg) and AM404 (10 or 20 mg/kg). Interestingly, fenclonine pretreatment completely abolished the effects of a 50 mg/kg dose of paracetamol. However, similar effects were not observed in AM251-pretreated mice at the same dose. In contrast, AM251 completely antagonized the effects of the 400 mg/kg dose, which was otherwise partially blocked in fenclonine-treated mice. Similar sets of results were observed with fluoxetine and AM404. Thus, it appears that paracetamol-induced antidepressant-like and anticompulsive effects may, at least partially, involve both the serotonergic and the endocannabinoid system. In addition, coadministration of paracetamol and fluoxetine/AM404 at subeffective doses produced synergistic effects, indicating that subthreshold doses of fluoxetine and paracetamol may enable better management in depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder comorbid patients.

Antimicrobial stewardship in Victorian hospitals: a statewide survey to identify current gaps.

PubMed

James, Rodney S; McIntosh, Kylie A; Luu, Susan B; Cotta, Menino O; Marshall, Caroline; Thursky, Karin A; Buising, Kirsty L

2013-11-18

To determine antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) activities currently being undertaken at Victorian hospitals, identifying gaps when assessed against the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care criteria for effective AMS. A survey open to all Victorian health services, conducted between January and March 2012. Availability of the endorsed prescribing guidelines, antimicrobial prescribing policies, formularies, approval systems for restricted antimicrobials, procedures for postprescription review, auditing and selective reporting of sensitivities. Response rates were 96.4% for public health services and 67.7% for private hospitals. Guidelines were available at all public and 88.1% of private hospitals, and 90.6% of public metropolitan, 45.7% of public regional and 21.4% of private hospitals had antimicrobial prescribing policies. Antimicrobial approval systems were used in 93.8% of public metropolitan, 17.3% of public regional and 4.8% of private hospitals. Prescribing audits were conducted by 62.5% of public metropolitan, 35.8% public regional and 52.4% of private hospitals. Nearly all hospitals had selective laboratory reporting of antimicrobial sensitivities. Few hospitals had dedicated funding for AMS personnel. We identified wide differences between hospital AMS activities. Additional support for AMS is particularly required in the public regional and private hospital sectors, principally in the key areas of policy development, antimicrobial approval systems, prescription review and auditing. Further research is required to develop recommendations for implementation of AMS within the regional and private hospital settings.

Detection of aquifer system compaction and land subsidence using interferometric synthetic aperture radar, Antelope Valley, Mojave Desert, California

USGS Publications Warehouse

Galloway, D.L.; Hudnut, K.W.; Ingebritsen, S.E.; Phillips, S.P.; Peltzer, G.; Rogez, F.; Rosen, P.A.

1998-01-01

Interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) has great potential to detect and quantify land subsidence caused by aquifer system compaction. InSAR maps with high spatial detail and resolution of range displacement (±10 mm in change of land surface elevation) were developed for a groundwater basin (∼103 km2) in Antelope Valley, California, using radar data collected from the ERS-1 satellite. These data allow comprehensive comparison between recent (1993–1995) subsidence patterns and those detected historically (1926–1992) by more traditional methods. The changed subsidence patterns are generally compatible with recent shifts in land and water use. The InSAR-detected patterns are generally consistent with predictions based on a coupled model of groundwater flow and aquifer system compaction. The minor inconsistencies may reflect our imperfect knowledge of the distribution and properties of compressible sediments. When used in conjunction with coincident measurements of groundwater levels and other geologic information, InSAR data may be useful for constraining parameter estimates in simulations of aquifer system compaction.

Evaluation of SHM system produced by additive manufacturing via acoustic emission and other NDT methods.

PubMed

Strantza, Maria; Aggelis, Dimitrios G; de Baere, Dieter; Guillaume, Patrick; van Hemelrijck, Danny

2015-10-21

During the last decades, structural health monitoring (SHM) systems are used in order to detect damage in structures. We have developed a novel structural health monitoring approach, the so-called "effective structural health monitoring" (eSHM) system. The current SHM system is incorporated into a metallic structure by means of additive manufacturing (AM) and has the possibility to advance life safety and reduce direct operative costs. It operates based on a network of capillaries that are integrated into an AM structure. The internal pressure of the capillaries is continuously monitored by a pressure sensor. When a crack nucleates and reaches the capillary, the internal pressure changes signifying the existence of the flaw. The main objective of this paper is to evaluate the crack detection capacity of the eSHM system and crack location accuracy by means of various non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques. During this study, detailed acoustic emission (AE) analysis was applied in AM materials for the first time in order to investigate if phenomena like the Kaiser effect and waveform parameters used in conventional metals can offer valuable insight into the damage accumulation of the AM structure as well. Liquid penetrant inspection, eddy current and radiography were also used in order to confirm the fatigue damage and indicate the damage location on un-notched four-point bending AM metallic specimens with an integrated eSHM system. It is shown that the eSHM system in combination with NDT can provide correct information on the damage condition of additive manufactured metals.

Evaluation of SHM System Produced by Additive Manufacturing via Acoustic Emission and Other NDT Methods

PubMed Central

Strantza, Maria; Aggelis, Dimitrios G.; de Baere, Dieter; Guillaume, Patrick; van Hemelrijck, Danny

2015-01-01

During the last decades, structural health monitoring (SHM) systems are used in order to detect damage in structures. We have developed a novel structural health monitoring approach, the so-called “effective structural health monitoring” (eSHM) system. The current SHM system is incorporated into a metallic structure by means of additive manufacturing (AM) and has the possibility to advance life safety and reduce direct operative costs. It operates based on a network of capillaries that are integrated into an AM structure. The internal pressure of the capillaries is continuously monitored by a pressure sensor. When a crack nucleates and reaches the capillary, the internal pressure changes signifying the existence of the flaw. The main objective of this paper is to evaluate the crack detection capacity of the eSHM system and crack location accuracy by means of various non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques. During this study, detailed acoustic emission (AE) analysis was applied in AM materials for the first time in order to investigate if phenomena like the Kaiser effect and waveform parameters used in conventional metals can offer valuable insight into the damage accumulation of the AM structure as well. Liquid penetrant inspection, eddy current and radiography were also used in order to confirm the fatigue damage and indicate the damage location on un-notched four-point bending AM metallic specimens with an integrated eSHM system. It is shown that the eSHM system in combination with NDT can provide correct information on the damage condition of additive manufactured metals. PMID:26506349

SOLAR SYSTEM MOONS AS ANALOGS FOR COMPACT EXOPLANETARY SYSTEMS

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

Kane, Stephen R.; Hinkel, Natalie R.; Raymond, Sean N., E-mail: skane@ipac.caltech.edu

2013-11-01

The field of exoplanetary science has experienced a recent surge of new systems that is largely due to the precision photometry provided by the Kepler mission. The latest discoveries have included compact planetary systems in which the orbits of the planets all lie relatively close to the host star, which presents interesting challenges in terms of formation and dynamical evolution. The compact exoplanetary systems are analogous to the moons orbiting the giant planets in our solar system, in terms of their relative sizes and semimajor axes. We present a study that quantifies the scaled sizes and separations of the solarmore » system moons with respect to their hosts. We perform a similar study for a large sample of confirmed Kepler planets in multi-planet systems. We show that a comparison between the two samples leads to a similar correlation between their scaled sizes and separation distributions. The different gradients of the correlations may be indicative of differences in the formation and/or long-term dynamics of moon and planetary systems.« less

Compact TDLAS based sensor design using interband cascade lasers for mid-IR trace gas sensing

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

Dong, Lei; Tittel, Frank K.; Li, Chunguang

2016-02-25

Two compact TDLAS sensor systems based on different structural optical cores were developed. The two optical cores combine two recent developments, gallium antimonide (GaSb)-based ICL and a compact multipass gas cell (MPGC) with the goal to create compact TDLAS based sensors for the mid-IR gas detection with high detection sensitivity and low power consumption. The sensors achieved minimum detection limits of ~5 ppbv and ~8 ppbv, respectively, for CH 4 and C 2H 6 concentration measurements with a 3.7-W power consumption.

Matching network for RF plasma source

DOEpatents

Pickard, Daniel S.; Leung, Ka-Ngo

2007-11-20

A compact matching network couples an RF power supply to an RF antenna in a plasma generator. The simple and compact impedance matching network matches the plasma load to the impedance of a coaxial transmission line and the output impedance of an RF amplifier at radio frequencies. The matching network is formed of a resonantly tuned circuit formed of a variable capacitor and an inductor in a series resonance configuration, and a ferrite core transformer coupled to the resonantly tuned circuit. This matching network is compact enough to fit in existing compact focused ion beam systems.

Rapid overt airborne reconnaissance (ROAR) for mines and obstacles in very shallow water, surf zone, and beach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moran, Steven E.; Austin, William L.; Murray, James T.; Roddier, Nicolas A.; Bridges, Robert; Vercillo, Richard; Stettner, Roger; Phillips, Dave; Bisbee, Al; Witherspoon, Ned H.

2003-09-01

Under the Office of Naval Research's Organic Mine Countermeasures Future Naval Capabilities (OMCM FNC) program, Lite Cycles, Inc. is developing an innovative and highly compact airborne active sensor system for mine and obstacle detection in very shallow water (VSW), through the surf-zone (SZ) and onto the beach. The system uses an innovative LCI proprietary integrated scanner, detector, and telescope (ISDT) receiver architecture. The ISD tightly couples all receiver components and LIDAR electronics to achieve the system compaction required for tactical UAVintegration while providing a large aperture. It also includes an advanced compact multifunction laser transmitter; an industry-first high-resolution, compact 3-D camera, a scanning function for wide area search, and temporally displaced multiple looks on the fly over the ocean surface for clutter reduction. Additionally, the laser will provide time-multiplexed multi-color output to perform day/night multispectral imaging for beach surveillance. New processing algorithms for mine detection in the very challenging surf-zone clutter environment are under development, which offer the potential for significant processing gains in comparison to the legacy approaches. This paper reviews the legacy system approaches, describes the mission challenges, and provides an overview of the ROAR system architecture.

Hydraulic and mechanical properties affecting ground-water flow and aquifer-system compaction, San Joaquin Valley, California

USGS Publications Warehouse

Sneed, Michelle

2001-01-01

This report summarizes hydraulic and mechanical properties affecting ground-water flow and aquifer-system compaction in the San Joaquin Valley, a broad alluviated intermontane structural trough that constitutes the southern two-thirds of the Central Valley of California. These values will be used to constrain a coupled ground-water flow and aquifer-system compaction model of the western San Joaquin Valley called WESTSIM. A main objective of the WESTSIM model is to evaluate potential future land subsidence that might occur under conditions in which deliveries of imported surface water for agricultural use are reduced and ground-water pumping is increased. Storage values generally are components of the total aquifer-system storage and include inelastic and elastic skeletal storage values of the aquifers and the aquitards that primarily govern the potential amount of land subsidence. Vertical hydraulic conductivity values generally are for discrete thicknesses of sediments, usually aquitards, that primarily govern the rate of land subsidence. The data were compiled from published sources and include results of aquifer tests, stress-strain analyses of borehole extensometer observations, laboratory consolidation tests, and calibrated models of aquifer-system compaction.

Invited Article: Progress in coherent lithography using table-top extreme ultraviolet lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, W.; Urbanski, L.; Marconi, M. C.

2015-12-01

Compact (table top) lasers emitting at wavelengths below 50 nm had expanded the spectrum of applications in the extreme ultraviolet (EUV). Among them, the high-flux, highly coherent laser sources enabled lithographic approaches with distinctive characteristics. In this review, we will describe the implementation of a compact EUV lithography system capable of printing features with sub-50 nm resolution using Talbot imaging. This compact system is capable of producing consistent defect-free samples in a reliable and effective manner. Examples of different patterns and structures fabricated with this method will be presented.

Check-Up of Planet Earth at the Turn of the Millennium: Anticipated New Phase in Earth Sciences

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kaufman, Y. J.; Ramanathan, V.

1998-01-01

Langley's remarkable solar and lunar spectra collected from Mt. Whitney inspired Arrhenius to develop the first quantitative climate model in 1896. In 1999, NASA's Earth Observing AM Satellite (EOS-AM) will repeat Langley's experiment, but for the entire planet, thus pioneering calibrated spectral observations from space. Conceived in response to real environmental problems, EOS-AM, in conjunction with other international satellite efforts, will fill a major gap in current efforts by providing quantitative global data sets with a resolution of few kilometers on the physical, chemical and biological elements of the earth system. Thus, like Langley's data, EOS-AM can revolutionize climate research by inspiring a new generation of climate system models and enable us to assess the human impact on the environment.

Measure Guideline: Implementing a Plenum Truss for a Compact Air Distribution System

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

Burdick, A.

2013-10-01

This Measure Guideline presents the steps to implement a compact duct system inside an attic bulkhead (plenum truss) of a one-story, slab-on-grade (SOG) home. In a compact duct design, ductwork runs are reduced in length to yield a smaller and more compact duct system. Less energy will be lost through ductwork if the ducts are contained within the thermal enclosure of the house. These measures are intended for the production builder working to meet the 2012 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) requirements and keep the ductwork within the thermal enclosure of the house. This measure of bringing the heating, ventilationmore » and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment and ductwork within the thermal enclosure of the house is appropriate for the builder wishing to avoid cathedralizing the insulation in the attic space (i.e., locating it at the underside of the roof deck rather than along the attic floor) or adding dropped soffits.« less

Measure Guideline: Implementing a Plenum Truss for a Compact Air Distribution System

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

Burdick, A.

2013-10-01

This Measure Guideline presents the steps to implement a compact duct system inside an attic bulkhead (plenum truss) of a one-story, slab-on-grade home. In a compact duct design, ductwork runs are reduced in length to yield a smaller and more compact duct system. Less energy will be lost through ductwork if the ducts are contained within the thermal enclosure of the house. These measures are intended for the production builder working to meet the 2012 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) requirements and keep the ductwork within the thermal enclosure of the house. This measure of bringing the heating, ventilation andmore » air conditioning (HVAC) equipment and ductwork within the thermal enclosure of the house is appropriate for the builder wishing to avoid cathedralizing the insulation in the attic space (i.e., locating it at the underside of the roof deck rather than along the attic floor) or adding dropped soffits.« less

Principles of control automation of soil compacting machine operating mechanism

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anatoly Fedorovich, Tikhonov; Drozdov, Anatoly

2018-03-01

The relevance of the qualitative compaction of soil bases in the erection of embankment and foundations in building and structure construction is given.The quality of the compactible gravel and sandy soils provides the bearing capability and, accordingly, the strength and durability of constructed buildings.It has been established that the compaction quality depends on many external actions, such as surface roughness and soil moisture; granulometry, chemical composition and degree of elasticity of originalfilled soil for compaction.The analysis of technological processes of soil bases compaction of foreign and domestic information sources showed that the solution of such important problem as a continuous monitoring of soil compaction actual degree in the process of machine operation carry out only with the use of modern means of automation. An effective vibrodynamic method of gravel and sand material sealing for the building structure foundations for various applications was justified and suggested.The method of continuous monitoring the soil compaction by measurement of the amplitudes and frequencies of harmonic oscillations on the compactible surface was determined, which allowed to determine the basic elements of facilities of soil compacting machine monitoring system of operating, etc. mechanisms: an accelerometer, a bandpass filter, a vibro-harmonics, an on-board microcontroller. Adjustable parameters have been established to improve the soil compaction degree and the soil compacting machine performance, and the adjustable parameter dependences on the overall indexhave been experimentally determined, which is the soil compaction degree.A structural scheme of automatic control of the soil compacting machine control mechanism and theoperation algorithm has been developed.

Assessing the environmental impacts of soil compaction in Life Cycle Assessment.

PubMed

Stoessel, Franziska; Sonderegger, Thomas; Bayer, Peter; Hellweg, Stefanie

2018-07-15

Maintaining biotic capacity is of key importance with regard to global food and biomass provision. One reason for productivity loss is soil compaction. In this paper, we use a statistical empirical model to assess long-term yield losses through soil compaction in a regionalized manner, with global coverage and for different agricultural production systems. To facilitate the application of the model, we provide an extensive dataset including crop production data (with 81 crops and corresponding production systems), related machinery application, as well as regionalized soil texture and soil moisture data. Yield loss is modeled for different levels of soil depth (0-25cm, 25-40cm and >40cm depth). This is of particular relevance since compaction in topsoil is classified as reversible in the short term (approximately four years), while recovery of subsoil layers takes much longer. We derive characterization factors quantifying the future average annual yield loss as a fraction of the current yield for 100years and applicable in Life Cycle Assessment studies of agricultural production. The results show that crops requiring enhanced machinery inputs, such as potatoes, have a major influence on soil compaction and yield losses, while differences between mechanized production systems (organic and integrated production) are small. The spatial variations of soil moisture and clay content are reflected in the results showing global hotspot regions especially susceptible to soil compaction, e.g. the South of Brazil, the Caribbean Islands, Central Africa, and the Maharashtra district of India. The impacts of soil compaction can be substantial, with highest annual yield losses in the range of 0.5% (95% percentile) due to one year of potato production (cumulated over 100y this corresponds to a one-time loss of 50% of the present yield). These modeling results demonstrate the necessity for including soil compaction effects in Life Cycle Impact Assessment. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

About High-Performance Computing at NREL | High-Performance Computing |

Science.gov Websites

Day(s): First Thursday of every month Hours: 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Location: ESIF B211-Edison Conference Room Contact: Jennifer Southerland Insight Center - Visualization Tools Day(s): Every Monday Hours: 10 Data System Day(s): Every Monday Hours: 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. Location: ESIF B308-Insight Center

Opening a Can of wERMS: Texas A&M University's Experiences in Implementing Two Electronic Resource Management Systems

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hartnett, Eric; Price, Apryl; Smith, Jane; Barrett, Michael

2010-01-01

Over the past few years, Texas A&M University (TAMU) has searched for a way to administer its electronic subscriptions as well as the electronic subscriptions shared among the TAMU System. In this article, we address our attempts to implement an effective electronic resource management system (ERMS), both for subscriptions on the main campus…

3D-printed focused collimator for intra-operative gamma-ray detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Holdsworth, David W.; Nikolov, Hristo N.; Pollmann, Steven I.

2017-03-01

Recent developments in targeted radiopharmaceutical labels have increased the need for sensitive, real-time gamma detection during cancer surgery and biopsy. Additive manufacturing (3D printing) in metal has now made it possible to design and fabricate complex metal collimators for compact gamma probes. We describe the design and implementation of a 3D-printed focused collimator that allows for real-time detection of gamma radiation from within a small volume of interest, using a single-crystal large-area detector. The collimator was fabricated using laser melting of powdered stainless steel (316L), using a commercial 3D metal printer (AM125, Renishaw plc). The prototype collimator is 20 mm thick, with hexagonal close-packed holes designed to focus to a point 35 mm below the surface of the collimator face. Tests were carried out with a low-activity (<1 μCi) 241 Am source, using a conventional gamma-ray detector probe, incorporating a 2.5 cm diameter, 2.5 cm thick NaI crystal coupled to a photomultiplier. The measured full-width half maximum (FWHM) was less than 5.6 mm, and collimator detection efficiency was 44%. The ability to fabricate fine features in solid metal makes it possible to develop optimized designs for high-efficiency, focused gamma collimators for real-time intraoperative imaging applications.

Public Outreach of the South Texas Health Physic Society and Texas A&M University Nuclear Engineering Department

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

Berry, R. O.

In a cooperative effort of the members of the South Texas Chapter of the Heath Physics Society (STC-HPS) and the Texas A&M University Nuclear Engineering Department, great efforts have been made to reach out and provide educational opportunities to members of the general public, school age children, and specifically teachers. These efforts have taken the form of Science Teacher Workshops (STW), visits to schools all over the state of Texas, public forums, and many other educational arenas. A major motivational factor for these most recent efforts can be directly tied to the attempt of the State of Texas to sitemore » a low-level radioactive waste facility near Sierra Blanca in West Texas. When the State of Texas first proposed to site a low level radioactive waste site after the Low-Level Radioactive Waste Policy Act of 1980 was passed, many years of political struggle ensued. Finally, a site at Sierra Blanca in far West Texas was selected for study and characterization for a disposal site for waste generated in the Texas Compact states of Maine, Vermont and Texas. During this process, the outreach to and education of the local public became a paramount issue.« less

Safety of novel projects, the battle against Murphy's law.

PubMed

Schmidt, R

2001-01-01

With great pleasure and respect I have accepted the offer to speak in this congress. Medicine was a dream for me sometime ago and my second choice for studies. I remained with my first choice engineering and I am still happy with it; but I never forgot my love and enthusiasm for medicine. My career brought me in contact with many countries and technologies, but the development towards safety management became a dominant trend. At CERN I am a Group Leader in Matters of Safety for the Compact Muon Solenoid (CMS) experiment. In the last few years my attention has been increasingly focused on human and institutional safety aspects, besides the technical ones. My paper deals with three major topics: Safety management at CERN-CMS Murphy's law and the growing importance of institutional and human factors in safety Future outlook for safety and conclusions. In the conclusions the commonalities between different technologies become more evident as the importance of the human nature and man's role and enticement to actively and intelligently contribute to safety are presented. Based on experience and references an appeal is launched to pay more attention to the human factor in safety and recognize the rules and regularities of human behaviour in order to better combat Murphy's law.

Note: Compact and light displacement sensor for a precision measurement system in large motion

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

Lee, Sang Heon, E-mail: shlee@andong.ac.kr

We developed a compact and light displacement sensor applicable to systems that require wide range motions of its sensing device. The proposed sensor utilized the optical pickup unit of the optical disk drive, which has been used applied to atomic force microscopy (AFM) because of its compactness and lightness as well as its high performance. We modified the structure of optical pickup unit and made the compact sensor driver attachable to a probe head of AFM to make large rotation. The feasibilities of the developed sensor for a general probe-moving measurement device and for probe-rotating AFM were verified. Moreover, amore » simple and precise measurement of alignment between centers of rotator and probe tip in probe-rotation AFM was experimentally demonstrated using the developed sensor.« less

Assembly and Testing of a Compact, Lightweight Homopolar Generator Power Supply

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-06-01

ASSEMBLY AND TESTING OF A COMPACT, LIGHTWEIGHT HOMOPOLAR GENERATOR POWER SUPPLY J. H. Gully Center for Electromechanics The University of Texas...portable systems. The initial step in developing the power supply was to design, fabricate and test a prototype homopolar generator, attempting to...levels. SUPPORT STRUCTURE HYDRAULIC Fig. 1. Section through compact homopolar generator ~1 l-oot!:__ __ 63.80 ----~ (25. 12) ~------ 85.88

Compact dewar and electronics for large-format infrared detectors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manissadjian, A.; Magli, S.; Mallet, E.; Cassaigne, P.

2011-06-01

Infrared systems cameras trend is to require higher performance (thanks to higher resolution) and in parallel higher compactness for easier integration in systems. The latest developments at SOFRADIR / France on HgCdTe (Mercury Cadmium Telluride / MCT) cooled IR staring detectors do show constant improvements regarding detector performances and compactness, by reducing the pixel pitch and optimizing their encapsulation. Among the latest introduced detectors, the 15μm pixel pitch JUPITER HD-TV format (1280×1024) has to deal with challenging specifications regarding dewar compactness, low power consumption and reliability. Initially introduced four years ago in a large dewar with a more than 2kg split Stirling cooler compressor, it is now available in a new versatile compact dewar that is vacuum-maintenance-free over typical 18 years mission profiles, and that can be integrated with the different available Stirling coolers: K548 microcooler for light solution (less than 0.7 kg), K549 or LSF9548 for split cooler and/or higher reliability solution. The IDDCAs are also required with simplified electrical interface enabling to shorten the system development time and to standardize the electronic boards definition with smaller volumes. Sofradir is therefore introducing MEGALINK, the new compact Command & Control Electronics compatible with most of the Sofradir IDDCAs. MEGALINK provides all necessary input biases and clocks to the FPAs, and digitizes and multiplexes the video outputs to provide a 14 bit output signal through a cameralink interface, in a surface smaller than a business card.

47 CFR 73.1570 - Modulation levels: AM, FM, TV and Class A TV aural.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... objectionable loudness or to maintain the dynamic range of the program material, the degree of modulation may be... stereophonic transmission signal modulation specifications of stereophonic system in use. (ii) For AM stations transmitting telemetry signals for remote control or automatic transmission system operation, the amplitude of...

The role of the macrophage in wound repair. A study with hydrocortisone and antimacrophage serum.

PubMed Central

Leibovich, S. J.; Ross, R.

1975-01-01

The role of the monocyte/macrophage in wound repair has been investigated by studying the healing process in wounds depleted of this cell and/or its phagocytic activity. Hydrocortisone acetate (0.6 mg/g body weight) administered as a subcutaneous depot was used to induce a prolonged monocytopenia in guinea pigs, and antimacrophage serum (AMS) was used for local elimination of tissue macrophages. In vitro, the presence of complement, macrophages are rapidly lysed and used killed by AMS. In the absence of complement, AMS is not cytotoxic but potently inhibits adherence to and phagocytosis of opsonized erythrocytes by macrophages. AMS titers were obtained by observation of adherence and phagocytosis of opsonized erythrocytes in serial dilutions of AMS. Six groups of animals were studied: a) untreated animals, b)animals receiving daily subcutaneous injections of normal rabbit serum (NRS) around each wound, c)animals receiving daily subcutaneous AMS around each wound, d)animals receiving systemic hydrocortisone, e)animals receiving systemic hydrocortisone and daily injections of NRS around each wound, and f)animals receiving systemic hydrocortisone and daily AMS around each wound. Wounds consisted of a series of six linear incisions in the dorsal skin. Subcutaneous AMS alone has no effect on the number of circulating monocytes, nor was there any observable effect on the number or the phagocytic ability of wound macrophages. Fibrosis in these wounds was unaffected. Systemic hydrocortisone induced a prolonged monocytopenia. The macrophage level in the wounds of these monocytopenic animals was reduced to approximately one-third that of controls; the phagocytic activity of the monocytes/macrophages that did appear in these wounds was, however, similar to that of controls. Some inhibition of wound debridement was observed in these wounds, but fibrosis was virtually unaffected. Collagen synthesis, as judged morphometrically, was similar to that of control wounds at all stages of repair. Conjoint systemic hydrocortisone and subcutaneous AMS around each wound resulted in the almost complete disappearance of macrophages from the wounds. Wound fibrin levels were elevated, and clearance of fibrin, neutrophils, erythrocytes and other miscellaneous debris from these wounds was delayed. Fibroblasts, which in control wounds first appear by 3 days postwounding and reach maximal levels by day 5, did not appear in these wounds until day 5, and their subsequent rate of proliferation was slower than that of controls. Continued. Images Fig 1 Fig 2 Fig 3 Fig 4 Fig 5 Fig 6 Fig 7 PMID:1109560

Testing the Binary Black Hole Nature of a Compact Binary Coalescence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krishnendu, N. V.; Arun, K. G.; Mishra, Chandra Kant

2017-09-01

We propose a novel method to test the binary black hole nature of compact binaries detectable by gravitational wave (GW) interferometers and, hence, constrain the parameter space of other exotic compact objects. The spirit of the test lies in the "no-hair" conjecture for black holes where all properties of a Kerr black hole are characterized by its mass and spin. The method relies on observationally measuring the quadrupole moments of the compact binary constituents induced due to their spins. If the compact object is a Kerr black hole (BH), its quadrupole moment is expressible solely in terms of its mass and spin. Otherwise, the quadrupole moment can depend on additional parameters (such as the equation of state of the object). The higher order spin effects in phase and amplitude of a gravitational waveform, which explicitly contains the spin-induced quadrupole moments of compact objects, hence, uniquely encode the nature of the compact binary. Thus, we argue that an independent measurement of the spin-induced quadrupole moment of the compact binaries from GW observations can provide a unique way to distinguish binary BH systems from binaries consisting of exotic compact objects.

Testing the Binary Black Hole Nature of a Compact Binary Coalescence.

PubMed

Krishnendu, N V; Arun, K G; Mishra, Chandra Kant

2017-09-01

We propose a novel method to test the binary black hole nature of compact binaries detectable by gravitational wave (GW) interferometers and, hence, constrain the parameter space of other exotic compact objects. The spirit of the test lies in the "no-hair" conjecture for black holes where all properties of a Kerr black hole are characterized by its mass and spin. The method relies on observationally measuring the quadrupole moments of the compact binary constituents induced due to their spins. If the compact object is a Kerr black hole (BH), its quadrupole moment is expressible solely in terms of its mass and spin. Otherwise, the quadrupole moment can depend on additional parameters (such as the equation of state of the object). The higher order spin effects in phase and amplitude of a gravitational waveform, which explicitly contains the spin-induced quadrupole moments of compact objects, hence, uniquely encode the nature of the compact binary. Thus, we argue that an independent measurement of the spin-induced quadrupole moment of the compact binaries from GW observations can provide a unique way to distinguish binary BH systems from binaries consisting of exotic compact objects.

The formation of compact groups of galaxies. I: Optical properties

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Diaferio, Antonaldo; Geller, Margaret J.; Ramella, Massimo

1994-01-01

The small crossing time of compact groups of galaxies (t(sub cr)H(sub 0) approximately less than 0.02) makes it hard to understand why they are observable at all. Our dissipationless N-body simulations show that within a single rich collapsing group compact groups of galaxies continually form. The mean lifetime of a particular compact configuration if approximately 1 Gyr. On this time scale, members may merge and/or other galaxies in the loose group may join the compact configuration. In other words, compact configurations are continually replaced by new systems. The frequency of this process explains the observability of compact groups. Our model produces compact configurations (compact groups (CG's) with optical properties remarkably similar to Hickson's (1982) compact groups (HCG's): (1) CG's have a frequency distribution of members similar to that of HCG's; (2) CG's are approximately equals 10 times as dense as loose groups; (3) CG's have dynamical properties remarkably similar to those of HCG's; (4) most of the galaxy members of CG's are not merger remnants. The crucial aspect of the model is the relationship between CG's and the surrounding rich loose group. Our model predicts the frequency of occurrence of CG's. A preliminary analysis of 18 rich loose groups is consistent with the model prediction. We suggest further observational tests of the model.

COSMIC probes into compact binary formation and evolution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Breivik, Katelyn

2018-01-01

The population of compact binaries in the galaxy represents the final state of all binaries that have lived up to the present epoch. Compact binaries present a unique opportunity to probe binary evolution since many of the interactions binaries experience can be imprinted on the compact binary population. By combining binary evolution simulations with catalogs of observable compact binary systems, we can distill the dominant physical processes that govern binary star evolution, as well as predict the abundance and variety of their end products.The next decades herald a previously unseen opportunity to study compact binaries. Multi-messenger observations from telescopes across all wavelengths and gravitational-wave observatories spanning several decades of frequency will give an unprecedented view into the structure of these systems and the composition of their components. Observations will not always be coincident and in some cases may be separated by several years, providing an avenue for simulations to better constrain binary evolution models in preparation for future observations.I will present the results of three population synthesis studies of compact binary populations carried out with the Compact Object Synthesis and Monte Carlo Investigation Code (COSMIC). I will first show how binary-black-hole formation channels can be understood with LISA observations. I will then show how the population of double white dwarfs observed with LISA and Gaia could provide a detailed view of mass transfer and accretion. Finally, I will show that Gaia could discover thousands black holes in the Milky Way through astrometric observations, yielding view into black-hole astrophysics that is complementary to and independent from both X-ray and gravitational-wave astronomy.

Propagating annular modes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sheshadri, A.; Plumb, R. A.

2017-12-01

The leading "annular mode", defined as the dominant EOF of surface pressure or of zonal mean zonal wind variability, appears as a dipolar structure straddling the mean midlatitude jet and thus seems to describe north-south wobbling of the jet latitude. However, extratropical zonal wind anomalies frequently tend to migrate poleward. This behavior can be described by the first two EOFs, the first (AM1) being the dipolar structure, and the second (AM2) having a tripolar structure centered on the mean jet. Taken in isolation, AM1 thus describes a north-south wobbling of the jet position, while AM2 describes a strengthening and narrowing of the jet. However, despite the fact that they are spatially orthogonal, and their corresponding time series temporally orthogonal, AM1 and AM2 are not independent, but show significant lag-correlations which reveal the propagation. The EOFs are not modes of the underlying dynamical system governing the zonal flow evolution. The true modes can be estimated using principal oscillation pattern (POP) analysis. In the troposphere, the leading POPs manifest themselves as a pair of complex conjugate structures with conjugate eigenvalues thus, in reality, constituting a single, complex, mode that describes propagating anomalies. Even though the principal components associated with the two leading EOFs decay at different rates, each decays faster than the true mode. These facts have implications for eddy feedback and the susceptibility of the mode to external perturbations. If one interprets the annular modes as the modes of the system, then simple theory predicts that the response to steady forcing will usually be dominated by AM1 (with the longest time scale). However, such arguments should really be applied to the true modes. Experiments with a simplified GCM show that climate response to perturbations do not necessarily have AM1 structures. Implications of these results for stratosphere-troposphere interactions are explored. The POP structures are shown to be independent of any weighting (unlike the EOFs, the structures and time scales of which change substantially with pressure weighting), a fact that is particularly important for a deep system such as the troposphere and stratospere. The structure and time evolution of coupled modes of the troposphere-stratosphere system are studied.

Role of Endocannabinoids and Cannabinoid-1 Receptors in Cerebrocortical Blood Flow Regulation

PubMed Central

Horváth, Béla; Benkő, Rita; Lacza, Zsombor; Járai, Zoltán; Sándor, Péter; Di Marzo, Vincenzo; Pacher, Pál; Benyó, Zoltán

2013-01-01

Background Endocannabinoids are among the most intensively studied lipid mediators of cardiovascular functions. In the present study the effects of decreased and increased activity of the endocannabinoid system (achieved by cannabinoid-1 (CB1) receptor blockade and inhibition of cannabinoid reuptake, respectively) on the systemic and cerebral circulation were analyzed under steady-state physiological conditions and during hypoxia and hypercapnia (H/H). Methodology/Principal Findings In anesthetized spontaneously ventilating rats the CB1-receptor antagonist/inverse agonist AM-251 (10 mg/kg, i.v.) failed to influence blood pressure (BP), cerebrocortical blood flow (CoBF, measured by laser-Doppler flowmetry) or arterial blood gas levels. In contrast, the putative cannabinoid reuptake inhibitor AM-404 (10 mg/kg, i.v.) induced triphasic responses, some of which could be blocked by AM-251. Hypertension during phase I was resistant to AM-251, whereas the concomitant CoBF-increase was attenuated. In contrast, hypotension during phase III was sensitive to AM-251, whereas the concomitant CoBF-decrease was not. Therefore, CoBF autoregulation appeared to shift towards higher BP levels after CB1-blockade. During phase II H/H developed due to respiratory depression, which could be inhibited by AM-251. Interestingly, however, the concomitant rise in CoBF remained unchanged after AM-251, indicating that CB1-blockade potentially enhanced the reactivity of the CoBF to H/H. In accordance with this hypothesis, AM-251 induced a significant enhancement of the CoBF responses during controlled stepwise H/H. Conclusion/Significance Under resting physiological conditions CB1-receptor mediated mechanisms appear to have limited influence on systemic or cerebral circulation. Enhancement of endocannabinoid levels, however, induces transient CB1-independent hypertension and sustained CB1-mediated hypotension. Furthermore, enhanced endocannabinoid activity results in respiratory depression in a CB1-dependent manner. Finally, our data indicate for the first time the involvement of the endocannabinoid system and CB1-receptors in the regulation of the cerebral circulation during H/H and also raise the possibility of their contribution to the autoregulation of CoBF. PMID:23308211

Compact Analyzer/Controller For Oxygen-Enrichment System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Puster, Richard L.; Singh, Jag J.; Sprinkle, Danny R.

1990-01-01

System controls hypersonic air-breathing engine tests. Compact analyzer/controller developed, built, and tested in small-scale wind tunnel prototype of the 8' HTT (High-Temperature Tunnel). Monitors level of oxygen and controls addition of liquid oxygen to enrich atmosphere for combustion. Ensures meaningful ground tests of hypersonic engines in range of speeds from mach 4 to mach 7.

Design study of an ultra-compact superconducting cyclotron for isotope production

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smirnov, V.; Vorozhtsov, S.; Vincent, J.

2014-11-01

A 12.5 MeV, 25 μA, proton compact superconducting cyclotron for medical isotope production has been designed and is currently in fabrication. The machine is initially aimed at producing 13N ammonia for Positron Emission Tomography (PET) cardiology applications. With an ultra-compact size and cost-effective price point, this system will offer clinicians unprecedented access to the preferred radiopharmaceutical isotope for cardiac PET imaging. A systems approach that carefully balanced the subsystem requirements coupled to precise beam dynamics calculations was followed. The system is designed to irradiate a liquid target internal to the cyclotron and to minimize the need for radiation shielding. The main parameters of the cyclotron, its design, and principal steps of the development work are presented here.

Compact Microscope Imaging System With Intelligent Controls Improved

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McDowell, Mark

2004-01-01

The Compact Microscope Imaging System (CMIS) with intelligent controls is a diagnostic microscope analysis tool with intelligent controls for use in space, industrial, medical, and security applications. This compact miniature microscope, which can perform tasks usually reserved for conventional microscopes, has unique advantages in the fields of microscopy, biomedical research, inline process inspection, and space science. Its unique approach integrates a machine vision technique with an instrumentation and control technique that provides intelligence via the use of adaptive neural networks. The CMIS system was developed at the NASA Glenn Research Center specifically for interface detection used for colloid hard spheres experiments; biological cell detection for patch clamping, cell movement, and tracking; and detection of anode and cathode defects for laboratory samples using microscope technology.

The profitability of automatic milking on Dutch dairy farms.

PubMed

Bijl, R; Kooistra, S R; Hogeveen, H

2007-01-01

Several studies have reported on the profitability of automatic milking based on different simulation models, but a data-based study using actual farm data has been lacking. The objective of this study was to analyze the profitability of dairy farms having an automatic milking system (AMS) compared with farms using a conventional milking system (CMS) based on real accounting data. In total, 62 farms (31 using an AMS and 31 using a CMS) were analyzed for the year 2003 in a case control study. Differences between the years 2002 and 2003 also were analyzed by comparing a subgroup of 16 farms with an AMS and 16 farms with a CMS. Matching was based on the time of investment in a milking system (same year), the total milk production per year, and intensity of land use (kg/ha). Results from 2003 showed that the farms with an AMS used, on average, 29% less labor than farms with a CMS. In contrast, farms using a CMS grew faster (37,132 kg of milk quota and 5 dairy cows) than farms with an AMS (-3,756 kg milk quota and 0.5 dairy cows) between 2002 and 2003. Dairy farmers with a CMS had larger (euro7,899) revenues than those with an AMS. However, no difference in the margin on dairy production was detected, partly because of numerically greater (euro6,822) variable costs on CMS farms. Dairy farms were compared financially based on the amount of money that was available for rent, depreciation, interest, labor, and profit (RDILP). The CMS farms had more money (euro15,566) available for RDILP than the AMS farms. This difference was caused by larger fixed costs (excluding labor) for the AMS farms, larger contractor costs (euro6,422), and larger costs for gas, water, and electricity (euro1,549). Differences in costs for contractors and for gas, water, and electricity were statistically significant. When expressed per full-time employee, AMS farms had greater revenues, margins, and gross margins per full-time employee than did CMS farms. This resulted in a substantially greater (but not statistically significant) RDILP per full-time employee (euro12,953) for AMS farms compared with CMS farms. Depreciation and interest costs for automatic milking were not available but were calculated based on several assumptions. Assuming larger purchase costs and a shorter depreciation time for AMS than for CMS, costs for depreciation and interest were larger for AMS farms than for CMS farms. Larger fixed costs should be compensated for by the amount of labor that has become available after introducing the milking robot. Therefore, farm managers should decide whether the extra time acquired by automatic milking balances against the extra costs associated with an AMS.

[Problems in integrative postgraduate medical training of physicians at anthroposophic hospitals in Germany and Switzerland].

PubMed

Heusser, Peter; Eberhard, Sabine; Weinzirl, Johannes; Orlow, Pascale; Berger, Bettina

2014-01-01

Anthroposophic hospitals provide integrative medical care by complementing conventional (CON) with anthroposophic medicine (AM). They teach integrative medicine in postgraduate medical training (PGMT). In a first evaluation of PGMT quality in AM, we analyzed the problems of this training from the perspectives of trainers and trainees. We conducted an anonymous cross-sectional full survey of all trainee and trainer physicians at the 15 AM hospitals in Germany (DE) and Switzerland (CH) with questionnaires of the Swiss Institute of Technology (ETH) Zürich, complemented by a module for AM. We also conducted descriptive statistics for questions with answering scales as well as calculations of group differences (two-tailed Mann-Whitney U test) and a qualitative content analysis (Mayring) of free text answers related to the problem analysis. The response rate in DE embraced 89 out of 215 (41.39%) surveyed trainees and 78 out of 184 (42.39%) trainers; in CH, the response rate comprised 19 out of 25 (76%) trainees and 22 out of 30 (73.33%) trainers. Free text answers related to problem analysis in DE and CH were given by 16 out of 108 (14.8%) trainees and by 20 out of 100 (20%) trainers, overall. Perceived main problems include work overload; shortcomings in work organization; delimitation of competences; interprofessional cooperation; financial resources (trainers); wages (trainees DE); practical relevance of AM (trainees and trainers in DE); professional or didactic competence of trainers; lack of interest in AM (trainees); problems with learning and practicing AM; no curriculum for postgraduate medical training in AM; tensions between AM and CON. Explanations for the differences between DE and CH include larger departments and the DRG system in DE, but also better structural conditions for AM PGMT in CH. Main problems of PGMT in AM include not only non-specific and systemic aspects, but also AM-specific issues. In order to develop a basis for concrete problem solving options, this study will be complemented by an analysis of solution ideas from the perspective of the involved trainers and trainees.

Airborne camera and spectrometer experiments and data evaluation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lehmann, F. F.; Bucher, T.; Pless, S.; Wohlfeil, J.; Hirschmüller, H.

2009-09-01

New stereo push broom camera systems have been developed at German Aerospace Centre (DLR). The new small multispectral systems (Multi Functional Camerahead - MFC, Advanced Multispectral Scanner - AMS) are light weight, compact and display three or five RGB stereo lines of 8000, 10 000 or 14 000 pixels, which are used for stereo processing and the generation of Digital Surface Models (DSM) and near True Orthoimage Mosaics (TOM). Simultaneous acquisition of different types of MFC-cameras for infrared and RGB data has been successfully tested. All spectral channels record the image data in full resolution, pan-sharpening is not necessary. Analogue to the line scanner data an automatic processing chain for UltraCamD and UltraCamX exists. The different systems have been flown for different types of applications; main fields of interest among others are environmental applications (flooding simulations, monitoring tasks, classification) and 3D-modelling (e.g. city mapping). From the DSM and TOM data Digital Terrain Models (DTM) and 3D city models are derived. Textures for the facades are taken from oblique orthoimages, which are created from the same input data as the TOM and the DOM. The resulting models are characterised by high geometric accuracy and the perfect fit of image data and DSM. The DLR is permanently developing and testing a wide range of sensor types and imaging platforms for terrestrial and space applications. The MFC-sensors have been flown in combination with laser systems and imaging spectrometers and special data fusion products have been developed. These products include hyperspectral orthoimages and 3D hyperspectral data.

Guidance, navigation, and control subsystem for the EOS-AM spacecraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Linder, David M.; Tolek, Joseph T.; Lombardo, John

1992-01-01

This paper presents the preliminary design of the Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GN&C) subsystem for the EOS-AM spacecraft and specifically focuses on the GN&C Normal Mode design. First, a brief description of the EOS-AM science mission, instruments, and system-level spacecraft design is provided. Next, an overview of the GN&C subsystem functional and performance requirements, hardware, and operating modes is presented. Then, the GN&C Normal Mode attitude determination, attitude control, and navigation systems are detailed. Finally, descriptions of the spacecraft's overall jitter performance and Safe Mode are provided.

Compact three-dimensional super-resolution system based on fluorescence emission difference microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Dazhao; Chen, Youhua; Fang, Yue; Hussain, Anwar; Kuang, Cuifang; Zhou, Xiaoxu; Xu, Yingke; Liu, Xu

2017-12-01

A compact microscope system for three-dimensional (3-D) super-resolution imaging is presented. The super-resolution capability of the system is based on a size-reduced effective 3-D point spread function generated through the fluorescence emission difference (FED) method. The appropriate polarization direction distribution and manipulation allows the panel active area of the spatial light modulator to be fully utilized. This allows simultaneous modulation of the incident light by two kinds of phase masks to be performed with a single spatial light modulator in order to generate a 3-D negative spot. The system is more compact than standard 3-D FED systems while maintaining all the advantages of 3-D FED microscopy. The experimental results demonstrated the improvement in 3-D resolution by nearly 1.7 times and 1.6 times compared to the classic confocal resolution in the lateral and axial directions, respectively.

Compact field color schlieren system for use in microgravity materials processing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Poteet, W. M.; Owen, R. B.

1986-01-01

A compact color schlieren system designed for field measurement of materials processing parameters has been built and tested in a microgravity environment. Improvements in the color filter design and a compact optical arrangement allowed the system described here to retain the traditional advantages of schlieren, such as simplicity, sensitivity, and ease of data interpretation. Testing was accomplished by successfully flying the instrument on a series of parabolic trajectories on the NASA KC-135 microgravity simulation aircraft. A variety of samples of interest in materials processing were examined. Although the present system was designed for aircraft use, the technique is well suited to space flight experimentation. A major goal of this effort was to accommodate the main optical system within a volume approximately equal to that of a Space Shuttle middeck locker. Future plans include the development of an automated space-qualified facility for use on the Shuttle and Space Station.

Compact optical duplicate system for satellite-ground laser communications: application of averaging effects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nakayama, Tomoko; Takayama, Yoshihisa; Fujikawa, Chiemi; Watanabe, Eriko; Kodate, Kashiko

2014-09-01

In recent years, there has been considerable interest in satellite-ground laser communication due to an increase in the quantity of data exchanged between satellites and the ground. However, improving the quality of this data communication is necessary as laser communication is vulnerable to air fluctuation. We first verify the spatial and temporal averaging effects using light beam intensity images acquired from middle-range transmission experiments between two ground positions and the superposition of these images using simulations. Based on these results, we propose a compact and lightweight optical duplicate system as a multi-beam generation device with which it is easy to apply the spatial averaging effect. Although an optical duplicate system is already used for optical correlation operations, we present optimum design solutions, design a compact optical duplicate system for satellite-ground laser communications, and demonstrate the efficacy of this system using simulations.

Digital Audio Radio Broadcast Systems Laboratory Testing Nearly Complete

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2005-01-01

Radio history continues to be made at the NASA Lewis Research Center with the completion of phase one of the digital audio radio (DAR) testing conducted by the Consumer Electronics Group of the Electronic Industries Association. This satellite, satellite/terrestrial, and terrestrial digital technology will open up new audio broadcasting opportunities both domestically and worldwide. It will significantly improve the current quality of amplitude-modulated/frequency-modulated (AM/FM) radio with a new digitally modulated radio signal and will introduce true compact-disc-quality (CD-quality) sound for the first time. Lewis is hosting the laboratory testing of seven proposed digital audio radio systems and modes. Two of the proposed systems operate in two modes each, making a total of nine systems being tested. The nine systems are divided into the following types of transmission: in-band on-channel (IBOC), in-band adjacent-channel (IBAC), and new bands. The laboratory testing was conducted by the Consumer Electronics Group of the Electronic Industries Association. Subjective assessments of the audio recordings for each of the nine systems was conducted by the Communications Research Center in Ottawa, Canada, under contract to the Electronic Industries Association. The Communications Research Center has the only CCIR-qualified (Consultative Committee for International Radio) audio testing facility in North America. The main goals of the U.S. testing process are to (1) provide technical data to the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) so that it can establish a standard for digital audio receivers and transmitters and (2) provide the receiver and transmitter industries with the proper standards upon which to build their equipment. In addition, the data will be forwarded to the International Telecommunications Union to help in the establishment of international standards for digital audio receivers and transmitters, thus allowing U.S. manufacturers to compete in the world market.

The CB1 receptor antagonist AM251 impairs reconsolidation of pavlovian fear memory in the rat basolateral amygdala.

PubMed

Ratano, Patrizia; Everitt, Barry J; Milton, Amy L

2014-10-01

We have investigated the requirement for signaling at CB1 receptors in the reconsolidation of a previously consolidated auditory fear memory, by infusing the CB1 receptor antagonist AM251, or the FAAH inhibitor URB597, directly into the basolateral amygdala (BLA) in conjunction with memory reactivation. AM251 disrupted memory restabilization, but only when administered after reactivation. URB597 produced a small, transient enhancement of memory restabilization when administered after reactivation. The amnestic effect of AM251 was rescued by coadministration of the GABAA receptor antagonist bicuculline at reactivation, indicating that the disruption of reconsolidation was mediated by altered GABAergic transmission in the BLA. These data show that the endocannabinoid system in the BLA is an important modulator of fear memory reconsolidation and that its effects on memory are mediated by an interaction with the GABAergic system. Thus, targeting the endocannabinoid system may have therapeutic potential to reduce the impact of maladaptive memories in neuropsychiatric disorders such as posttraumatic stress disorder.

In Brief: Geoengineering draft statement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Showstack, Randy

2009-04-01

The American Meteorological Society (AMS) has prepared a draft policy statement on geoengineering the climate system, which the AMS Council is considering for approval. The statement notes, “Geoengineering will not substitute for either aggressive mitigation or proactive adaptation. It could contribute to a comprehensive risk management strategy to slow climate change and alleviate its negative impacts, but the potential for adverse and unintended consequences implies a need for adequate research, appropriate regulation, and transparent consideration.” The statement, if adopted, indicates that AMS recommends enhanced research on the scientific and technological potential for geoengineering the climate system; additional study of the historical, ethical, legal, political, and societal aspects of the geoengineering issues; and the development and analysis of policy options to promote transparency and international cooperation in exploring geoengineering options along with restrictions on reckless efforts to manipulate the climate system. AMS is accepting comments on the draft statement until 23 April. For more information, visit http://ametsoc.org/policy/draftstatements/index.html#draft.

Preliminary measurements of 135Cs with AMS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yin, Xinyi; He, Ming; Dong, Kejun; Dou, Liang; Lan, Xiaoxi; Pang, Fangfang; Wu, Shaoyong; Jiang, Shan

2015-10-01

135Cs is an interesting nuclide in many research fields, especially in environmental study. Preliminary measurements of the long-lived 135Cs with accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) have been developed with the HI-13 tandem AMS facility at China Institute of Atomic Energy (CIAE). In order to improve ion extracting current and depressing background interference, experiments were carried out on different ions of Cs extracted from different samples. It was found that Cs- extracted from CsNO3 can be used for AMS measurement of 135Cs. According to the preliminary results, the background level can be obtained with blanks was 135Ba/Cs ∼ 8.8 × 10-12 with the CIAE-AMS system.

AmWeb: a novel interactive web tool for antimicrobial resistance surveillance, applicable to both community and hospital patients.

PubMed

Ironmonger, Dean; Edeghere, Obaghe; Gossain, Savita; Bains, Amardeep; Hawkey, Peter M

2013-10-01

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is recognized as one of the most significant threats to human health. Local and regional AMR surveillance enables the monitoring of temporal changes in susceptibility to antibiotics and can provide prescribing guidance to healthcare providers to improve patient management and help slow the spread of antibiotic resistance in the community. There is currently a paucity of routine community-level AMR surveillance information. The HPA in England sponsored the development of an AMR surveillance system (AmSurv) to collate local laboratory reports. In the West Midlands region of England, routine reporting of AMR data has been established via the AmSurv system from all diagnostic microbiology laboratories. The HPA Regional Epidemiology Unit developed a web-enabled database application (AmWeb) to provide microbiologists, pharmacists and other stakeholders with timely access to AMR data using user-configurable reporting tools. AmWeb was launched in the West Midlands in January 2012 and is used by microbiologists and pharmacists to monitor resistance profiles, perform local benchmarking and compile data for infection control reports. AmWeb is now being rolled out to all English regions. It is expected that AmWeb will become a valuable tool for monitoring the threat from newly emerging or currently circulating resistant organisms and helping antibiotic prescribers to select the best treatment options for their patients.

Distinct Properties of Human M-CSF and GM-CSF Monocyte-Derived Macrophages to Simulate Pathological Lung Conditions In Vitro: Application to Systemic and Inflammatory Disorders with Pulmonary Involvement.

PubMed

Lescoat, Alain; Ballerie, Alice; Augagneur, Yu; Morzadec, Claudie; Vernhet, Laurent; Fardel, Olivier; Jégo, Patrick; Jouneau, Stéphane; Lecureur, Valérie

2018-03-17

Macrophages play a central role in the pathogenesis of inflammatory and fibrotic lung diseases. However, alveolar macrophages (AM) are poorly available in humans to perform in vitro studies due to a limited access to broncho-alveolar lavage (BAL). In this study, to identify the best alternative in vitro model for human AM, we compared the phenotype of AM obtained from BAL of patients suffering from three lung diseases (lung cancers, sarcoidosis and Systemic Sclerosis (SSc)-associated interstitial lung disease) to human blood monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs) differentiated with M-CSF or GM-CSF. The expression of eight membrane markers was evaluated by flow cytometry. Globally, AM phenotype was closer to GM-CSF MDMs. However, the expression levels of CD163, CD169, CD204, CD64 and CD36 were significantly higher in SSc-ILD than in lung cancers. Considering the expression of CD204 and CD36, the phenotype of SSc-AM was closer to MDMs, from healthy donors or SSc patients, differentiated by M-CSF rather than GM-CSF. The comparative secretion of IL-6 by SSc-MDMs and SSc-AM is concordant with these phenotypic considerations. Altogether, these results support the M-CSF MDM model as a relevant in vitro alternative to simulate AM in fibrotic disorders such as SSc.

Effective depth of soil compaction in relation to applied compactive energy.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2015-02-01

The determination of appropriate lift thickness used in the embankment construction has important economic : and engineering implications in the design, construction, and performance of transportation systems. Department : of Transportations (DOTs) a...

Novel oral amphotericin B formulation (iCo-010) remains highly effective against murine systemic candidiasis following exposure to tropical temperature.

PubMed

Wasan, Kishor M; Sivak, Olena; Bartlett, Karen; Wasan, Ellen K; Gershkovich, Pavel

2015-01-01

To evaluate the antifungal activity of amphotericin B (AmB) in a mouse model of systemic candidiasis following administration of a novel oral AmB formulation (iCo-010) that has been pre-exposed to tropical temperatures. Amphotericin B (AmB) was prepared as a 5 mg/mL dispersion in a mixture of Peceol, Gelucire 44/14 and VitE-TPGS 2,3 (iCo-010). The formulation was protected from light and incubated in a sealed container at 43 °C for 60 days. Mice infected with Candida albicans were treated with either iCo-010 formulation pre-incubated at 43 °C for 60 days or freshly prepared iCo-010 formulation at doses of 5, 10 and 20 mg/kg once daily for five consecutive days. Single intravenous 5 mg/kg dose of AmBisome® was used as a positive control group. Seven days following the last dose, the kidney, liver, spleen, lung, heart and brain were removed and the number of colony forming units (CFUs) was determined as a measure of tissue fungal load. In addition, the concentration of AmB within each tissue was determined using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). There were no significant differences in the reduction of CFUs and the concentration of AmB recovered in all organs at all iCo-010 doses tested between the freshly prepared iCo-010 formulation compared to the formulation that was incubated at 43 °C for 60 days. A novel oral AmB formulation, iCo-010, incubated at 43 °C for 60 days to simulate the exposure of the formulation to tropical temperatures remained highly effective against murine systemic candidiasis.

Generalized interpretation scheme for arbitrary HR InSAR image pairs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boldt, Markus; Thiele, Antje; Schulz, Karsten

2013-10-01

Land cover classification of remote sensing imagery is an important topic of research. For example, different applications require precise and fast information about the land cover of the imaged scenery (e.g., disaster management and change detection). Focusing on high resolution (HR) spaceborne remote sensing imagery, the user has the choice between passive and active sensor systems. Passive systems, such as multispectral sensors, have the disadvantage of being dependent from weather influences (fog, dust, clouds, etc.) and time of day, since they work in the visible part of the electromagnetic spectrum. Here, active systems like Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) provide improved capabilities. As an interactive method analyzing HR InSAR image pairs, the CovAmCohTM method was introduced in former studies. CovAmCoh represents the joint analysis of locality (coefficient of variation - Cov), backscatter (amplitude - Am) and temporal stability (coherence - Coh). It delivers information on physical backscatter characteristics of imaged scene objects or structures and provides the opportunity to detect different classes of land cover (e.g., urban, rural, infrastructure and activity areas). As example, railway tracks are easily distinguishable from other infrastructure due to their characteristic bluish coloring caused by the gravel between the sleepers. In consequence, imaged objects or structures have a characteristic appearance in CovAmCoh images which allows the development of classification rules. In this paper, a generalized interpretation scheme for arbitrary InSAR image pairs using the CovAmCoh method is proposed. This scheme bases on analyzing the information content of typical CovAmCoh imagery using the semisupervised k-means clustering. It is shown that eight classes model the main local information content of CovAmCoh images sufficiently and can be used as basis for a classification scheme.

Convergent translational evidence of a role for anandamide in amygdala-mediated fear extinction, threat processing and stress-reactivity.

PubMed

Gunduz-Cinar, O; MacPherson, K P; Cinar, R; Gamble-George, J; Sugden, K; Williams, B; Godlewski, G; Ramikie, T S; Gorka, A X; Alapafuja, S O; Nikas, S P; Makriyannis, A; Poulton, R; Patel, S; Hariri, A R; Caspi, A; Moffitt, T E; Kunos, G; Holmes, A

2013-07-01

Endocannabinoids are released 'on-demand' on the basis of physiological need, and can be pharmacologically augmented by inhibiting their catabolic degradation. The endocannabinoid anandamide is degraded by the catabolic enzyme fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). Anandamide is implicated in the mediation of fear behaviors, including fear extinction, suggesting that selectively elevating brain anandamide could modulate plastic changes in fear. Here we first tested this hypothesis with preclinical experiments employing a novel, potent and selective FAAH inhibitor, AM3506 (5-(4-hydroxyphenyl)pentanesulfonyl fluoride). Systemic AM3506 administration before extinction decreased fear during a retrieval test in a mouse model of impaired extinction. AM3506 had no effects on fear in the absence of extinction training, or on various non-fear-related measures. Anandamide levels in the basolateral amygdala were increased by extinction training and augmented by systemic AM3506, whereas application of AM3506 to amygdala slices promoted long-term depression of inhibitory transmission, a form of synaptic plasticity linked to extinction. Further supporting the amygdala as effect-locus, the fear-reducing effects of systemic AM3506 were blocked by intra-amygdala infusion of a CB1 receptor antagonist and were fully recapitulated by intra-amygdala infusion of AM3506. On the basis of these preclinical findings, we hypothesized that variation in the human FAAH gene would predict individual differences in amygdala threat-processing and stress-coping traits. Consistent with this, carriers of a low-expressing FAAH variant (385A allele; rs324420) exhibited quicker habituation of amygdala reactivity to threat, and had lower scores on the personality trait of stress-reactivity. Our findings show that augmenting amygdala anandamide enables extinction-driven reductions in fear in mouse and may promote stress-coping in humans.

Magnetic suspension and balance system study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Boom, R. W.; Eyssa, Y. M.; Mcintosh, G. E.; Abdelsalam, M. K.

1984-01-01

A compact design for a superconducting magnetic suspension and balance system is developed for a 8 ft. x 8 ft. transonic wind tunnel. The main features of the design are: a compact superconducting solenoid in the suspended airplane model; permanent magnet wings; one common liquid helium dewar for all superconducting coils; efficient new race track coils for roll torques; use of established 11 kA cryostable AC conductor; acceptable AC losses during 10 Hz control even with all steel structure; and a 560 liter/hour helium liquefier. Considerable design simplicity, reduced magnet weights, and reduced heat leak results from using one common dewar which eliminates most heavy steel structure between coils and the suspended model. Operational availability is thought to approach 100% for such magnet systems. The weight and cost of the magnet system is approximately one-third that of previous less compact designs.

The effect of lactation number, stage, length, and milking frequency on milk yield in Korean Holstein dairy cows using automatic milking system

PubMed Central

Vijayakumar, Mayakrishnan; Park, Ji Hoo; Ki, Kwang Seok; Lim, Dong Hyun; Kim, Sang Bum; Park, Seong Min; Jeong, Ha Yeon; Park, Beom Young; Kim, Tae Il

2017-01-01

Objective The aim of the current study was to describe the relationship between milk yield and lactation number, stage, length and milking frequency in Korean Holstein dairy cows using an automatic milking system (AMS). Methods The original data set consisted of observations from April to October 2016 of 780 Holstein cows, with a total of 10,751 milkings. Each time a cow was milked by an AMS during the 24 h, the AMS management system recorded identification numbers of the AMS unit, the cow being milking, date and time of the milking, and milk yield (kg) as measured by the milk meters installed on each AMS unit, date and time of the lactation, lactation stage, milking frequency (NoM). Lactation stage is defined as the number of days milking per cows per lactation. Milk yield was calculated per udder quarter in the AMS and was added to 1 record per cow and trait for each milking. Milking frequency was measured the number of milkings per cow per 24 hour. Results From the study results, a significant relationship was found between the milk yield and lactation number (p<0.001), with the maximum milk yield occurring in the third lactation cows. We recorded the highest milk yield, in a greater lactation length period of early stage (55 to 90 days) at a 4× milking frequency/d, and the lowest milk yield was observed in the later stage (>201 days) of cows. Also, milking frequency had a significant influence on milk yield (p<0.001) in Korean Holstein cows using AMS. Conclusion Detailed knowledge of these factors such as lactation number, stage, length, and milking frequency associated with increasing milk yield using AMS will help guide future recommendations to producers for maximizing milk yield in Korean Dairy industries. PMID:28423887

Compact microchannel system

DOEpatents

Griffiths, Stewart

2003-09-30

The present invention provides compact geometries for the layout of microchannel columns through the use of turns and straight channel segments. These compact geometries permit the use of long separation or reaction columns on a small microchannel substrate or, equivalently, permit columns of a fixed length to occupy a smaller substrate area. The new geometries are based in part on mathematical analyses that provide the minimum turn radius for which column performance in not degraded. In particular, we find that straight channel segments of sufficient length reduce the required minimum turn radius, enabling compact channel layout when turns and straight segments are combined. The compact geometries are obtained by using turns and straight segments in overlapped or nested arrangements to form pleated or coiled columns.

Nursing regulation, the nurse licensure compact, and nurse administrators: working together for patient safety.

PubMed

Poe, Laura

2008-01-01

Maintaining the concept of states rights, boards of nursing responded to the need for removal of barriers in meeting nursing manpower needs. One mechanism to accomplish this end was the development of the Nurse Licensure Compact, a multistate nurse license structured in much the same way as driver's license compacts. Representatives of State Boards of Nursing developed model compact structure and rules which allow nurses licensed in their state of residence to practice in other participating states without having to obtain additional licenses. Monitoring of nurse licensure and disciplinary information is facilitated through Nursys (nurse system). Nurses, nurse administrators, and the public benefit from the experiences of the 23 states that have implemented the Nurse Licensure Compact.

Analysis of electric energy consumption of automatic milking systems in different configurations and operative conditions.

PubMed

Calcante, Aldo; Tangorra, Francesco M; Oberti, Roberto

2016-05-01

Automatic milking systems (AMS) have been a revolutionary innovation in dairy cow farming. Currently, more than 10,000 dairy cow farms worldwide use AMS to milk their cows. Electric consumption is one of the most relevant and uncontrollable operational cost of AMS, ranging between 35 and 40% of their total annual operational costs. The aim of the present study was to measure and analyze the electric energy consumption of 4 AMS with different configurations: single box, central unit featuring a central vacuum system for 1 cow unit and for 2 cow units. The electrical consumption (daily consumption, daily consumption per cow milked, consumption per milking, and consumption per 100L of milk) of each AMS (milking unit + air compressor) was measured using 2 energy analyzers. The measurement period lasted 24h with a sampling frequency of 0.2Hz. The daily total energy consumption (milking unit + air compressor) ranged between 45.4 and 81.3 kWh; the consumption per cow milked ranged between 0.59 and 0.99 kWh; the consumption per milking ranged between 0.21 and 0.33 kWh; and the consumption per 100L of milk ranged between 1.80 to 2.44 kWh according to the different configurations and operational contexts considered. Results showed that AMS electric consumption was mainly conditioned by farm management rather than machine characteristics/architectures. Copyright © 2016 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Utilization of inoculum of AM fungi produced on-farm for the production of Capsicum annuum: a summary of 7 years of field trials on a conventional vegetable farm

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Utilization of arbuscular mycorrhizal [AM] fungus inoculum has been encouraged as a way for vegetable farmers to better utilize the AM symbiosis. On-farm systems can economically produce inoculum that has been shown to increase the yield of specific crops. We conducted seven years of field studies...

78 FR 27246 - Center for Scientific Review; Notice of Closed Meetings

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-05-09

...; Modeling and Analysis of Biological Systems Study Section. Date: June 6-7, 2013. Time: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p...; Psychosocial Development, Risk and Prevention Study Section. Date: June 6-7, 2013. Time: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m... Review Group; Behavioral Genetics and Epidemiology Study Section. Date: June 6, 2013. Time: 8:00 a.m. to...

Cloning of the altered mRNA stability (ams) gene of Escherichia coli K-12.

PubMed Central

Claverie-Martin, F; Diaz-Torres, M R; Yancey, S D; Kushner, S R

1989-01-01

A temperature-sensitive mutation in the ams gene of Escherichia coli causes an increase in the chemical half-life of pulse-labeled RNA at the nonpermissive temperature. Using lambda clones containing DNA fragments from the 23- to 24-min region on the E. coli chromosome, we have isolated a 5.8-kilobase DNA fragment which, when present in a low-copy-number plasmid, complements the conditional lethality and increased mRNA stability associated with the ams-1 mutation. The approximate initiation site and the direction of transcription of the ams gene were determined from the size of truncated polypeptides produced by Tn1000 insertions and Bal 31 deletions. Overexpression of the ams locus by using a T7 RNA polymerase-promoter system permitted the identification of an ams-encoded polypeptide of 110 kilodaltons. Images PMID:2477358

AMS Climate Studies: Improving climate literacy through undergraduate education

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brey, J. A.; Geer, I. W.; Moran, J. M.; Weinbeck, R. S.; Mills, E. W.; Blair, B. A.; Hopkins, E. J.; Kiley, T. P., Jr.; Ruwe, E. E.

2009-12-01

In working to promote scientific literacy among the public, the American Meteorological Society (AMS) has produced a suite of introductory college-level courses that engage students by investigating relevant topics in Earth science, and utilizing the most current, real-world environmental data. The newest of these courses, AMS Climate Studies, is a turnkey package which will be licensed by individual colleges for local offering in online, blended, or traditional lecture/lab settings. The course will place students in a dynamic learning environment where they will investigate Earth’s climate system using real-world data. This will allow the course to keep a strong focus on the science, while still addressing many of the societal impacts that draw the attention of today’s students. In this way, the course will serve as a great primer in preparing students to become responsible, scientifically-literate participants in discussions of climate science and climate change. Developed with major support from NASA, AMS Climate Studies will encourage students to investigate the atmosphere and world ocean as components of a larger Earth system. More than 500 colleges and universities throughout the United States have already offered AMS Weather Studies and AMS Ocean Studies, after which AMS Climate Studies will be modeled. The learning system will consist of a fully-integrated set of printed and online learning materials focused around a brand new, hardcover 15-chapter textbook, Climate Studies: Introduction to Climate Science and an Investigations Manual with 30 lab-style activities that will emphasize the use of authentic science data. The package will also include a course website providing weekly Current Climate Studies activities along with access to environmental data streams, including an impressive suite of NASA and NOAA images and products. The development and testing of AMS Climate Studies is currently nearing completion. A number of college and university professors have been selected to pilot the program in Spring 2010, with major emphasis placed on representing a diverse array of institution types, degree programs, course delivery methods, academic backgrounds, etc. The materials will be vigorously tested and updated accordingly. AMS Climate Studies will be available for implementation at your institution beginning Fall 2010.

Improving the coding and classification of ambulance data through the application of International Classification of Disease 10th revision.

PubMed

Cantwell, Kate; Morgans, Amee; Smith, Karen; Livingston, Michael; Dietze, Paul

2014-02-01

This paper aims to examine whether an adaptation of the International Classification of Disease (ICD) coding system can be applied retrospectively to final paramedic assessment data in an ambulance dataset with a view to developing more fine-grained, clinically relevant case definitions than are available through point-of-call data. Over 1.2 million case records were extracted from the Ambulance Victoria data warehouse. Data fields included dispatch code, cause (CN) and final primary assessment (FPA). Each FPA was converted to an ICD-10-AM code using word matching or best fit. ICD-10-AM codes were then converted into Major Diagnostic Categories (MDC). CN was aligned with the ICD-10-AM codes for external cause of morbidity and mortality. The most accurate results were obtained when ICD-10-AM codes were assigned using information from both FPA and CN. Comparison of cases coded as unconscious at point-of-call with the associated paramedic assessment highlighted the extra clinical detail obtained when paramedic assessment data are used. Ambulance paramedic assessment data can be aligned with ICD-10-AM and MDC with relative ease, allowing retrospective coding of large datasets. Coding of ambulance data using ICD-10-AM allows for comparison of not only ambulance service users but also with other population groups. WHAT IS KNOWN ABOUT THE TOPIC? There is no reliable and standard coding and categorising system for paramedic assessment data contained in ambulance service databases. WHAT DOES THIS PAPER ADD? This study demonstrates that ambulance paramedic assessment data can be aligned with ICD-10-AM and MDC with relative ease, allowing retrospective coding of large datasets. Representation of ambulance case types using ICD-10-AM-coded information obtained after paramedic assessment is more fine grained and clinically relevant than point-of-call data, which uses caller information before ambulance attendance. WHAT ARE THE IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTITIONERS? This paper describes a model of coding using an internationally recognised standard coding and categorising system to support analysis of paramedic assessment. Ambulance data coded using ICD-10-AM allows for reliable reporting and comparison within the prehospital setting and across the healthcare industry.

Compact localized states and flat bands from local symmetry partitioning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Röntgen, M.; Morfonios, C. V.; Schmelcher, P.

2018-01-01

We propose a framework for the connection between local symmetries of discrete Hamiltonians and the design of compact localized states. Such compact localized states are used for the creation of tunable, local symmetry-induced bound states in an energy continuum and flat energy bands for periodically repeated local symmetries in one- and two-dimensional lattices. The framework is based on very recent theorems in graph theory which are here employed to obtain a block partitioning of the Hamiltonian induced by the symmetry of a given system under local site permutations. The diagonalization of the Hamiltonian is thereby reduced to finding the eigenspectra of smaller matrices, with eigenvectors automatically divided into compact localized and extended states. We distinguish between local symmetry operations which commute with the Hamiltonian, and those which do not commute due to an asymmetric coupling to the surrounding sites. While valuable as a computational tool for versatile discrete systems with locally symmetric structures, the approach provides in particular a unified, intuitive, and efficient route to the flexible design of compact localized states at desired energies.

Booster Test for Space Launch System Rocket

NASA Image and Video Library

2016-06-26

The quench system arm and nozzle are seen at the test area where the second and final qualification motor (QM-2) test for the Space Launch System’s booster will take place, Sunday, June 26, 2016, at Orbital ATK Propulsion Systems test facilities in Promontory, Utah. The test is scheduled for Tuesday, June 28 at 10:05 a.m. EDT (8:05 a.m. MDT). Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

Enhancing Soundtracks From Old Movies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Frazer, Robert E.

1992-01-01

Proposed system enhances soundtracks of old movies. Signal on optical soundtrack of film digitized and processed to reduce noise and improve quality; timing signals added, and signal recorded on compact disk. Digital comparator and voltage-controlled oscillator synchronizes speed of film-drive motor and compact disk motor. Frame-coded detector reads binary frame-identifying marks on film. Digital comparator generates error signal if marks on film do not match those on compact disk.

Investigation Into Radiation-Induced Compaction of Zerodur (trademark)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Edwards, D. L.; Herren, K.; Hayden, M.; McDonald, K.; Sims, J. A.; Semmel, C. L.

1996-01-01

Zerodur is a low coefficient of thermal expansion glass-ceramic material. This property makes Zerodur an excellent material for high precision optical substrates. Functioning as a high precision optical substrate, a material must be dimensionally stable in the system operating environment. Published data indicate that Zerodur is dimensionally unstable when exposed to large doses of ionizing radiation. The dimensional instability is discussed as an increase in Zerodur density. This increase in density is described as a compaction. Experimental data showing proton-induced compaction of Zerodur is presented. The dependence of compaction on proton dose was determined to be a power law relationship.

Investigation Into Radiation-Induced Compaction of Zerodur (trademark)

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

Edwards, D.L.; Herren, K.; Hayden, M.

1996-03-01

Zerodur is a low coefficient of thermal expansion glass-ceramic material. This property makes Zerodur an excellent material for high precision optical substrates. Functioning as a high precision optical substrate, a material must be dimensionally stable in the system operating environment. Published data indicate that Zerodur is dimensionally unstable when exposed to large doses of ionizing radiation. The dimensional instability is discussed as an increase in Zerodur density. This increase in density is described as a compaction. Experimental data showing proton-induced compaction of Zerodur is presented. The dependence of compaction on proton dose was determined to be a power law relationship.

Design, Implementation, and Characterization of a Dedicated Breast Computed Mammo Tomography System for Enhanced Lesion Imaging

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-03-01

common FOV of each system. 64 SPECT System Our current emission tomography system uses a compact 16x20cm 2 field of view Cadmium Zinc Telluride (CZT...Brzymialkiewicz, M.P. Tornai, R.L. McKinley, J.E. Bowsher. “Evaluation of Fully 3D Emission Mammotomography with a Compact Cadmium Zinc Telluride Detector...conclusions. Stacks of breast tissue equivalent plates, each 2.0cm thick (CIRS Inc., Norfolk, VA) having either 100% glandular or 100% adipose composition

Land Subsidence and Aquifer-System Compaction in the Tucson Active Management Area, South-Central Arizona, 1987-2005

USGS Publications Warehouse

Carruth, Rob; Flynn, Pool; Donald, R.; Anderson, Carl E.

2007-01-01

The U.S. Geological Survey monitors land subsidence and aquifer-system compaction caused by ground-water depletion in Tucson Basin and Avra Valley - two of the three alluvial basins within the Tucson Active Management Area. In spring 1987, the Global Positioning System was used to measure horizontal and vertical positions for bench marks at 43 sites to establish a network for monitoring land subsidence in Tucson Basin and Avra Valley. Between 1987 and 2005, the original number of subsidence monitoring stations was gradually increased to more than 100 stations to meet the need for information in the growing metropolitan area. Data from approximately 60 stations common to the Global Positioning System surveys done after an initial survey in 1987 are used to document land subsidence. For the periods of comparison, average land-surface deformation generally is less than the maximum subsidence at an individual station and takes into account land-surface recovery from elastic aquifer-system compaction. Between 1987 and 1998, as much as 3.2 inches of subsidence occurred in Tucson Basin and as much as 4 inches of subsidence occurred in Avra Valley. For the 31 stations that are common to both the 1987 and 1998 Global Positioning System surveys, the average subsidence during the 11-year period was about 0.5 inch in Tucson Basin and about 1.2 inches in Avra Valley. For the approximately 60 stations that are common to both the 1998 and 2002 Global Positioning System surveys, the data indicate that as much as 3.5 inches of subsidence occurred in Tucson Basin and as much as 1.1 inches of subsidence occurred in Avra Valley. The average subsidence for the 4-year period is about 0.4 inch in Tucson Basin and 0.6 inch in Avra Valley. Between the 2002 and the 2005 Global Positioning System surveys, the data indicate that as much as 0.2 inch of subsidence occurred in Tucson Basin and as much as 2.2 inches of subsidence occurred in Avra Valley. The average subsidence for the 3-year period is about 0.7 inch in Avra Valley. Between 1987 and 2004-05, land subsidence was greater in Avra Valley than in Tucson Basin on the basis of the average cumulative subsidence for the stations that were common to the original Global Positioning System survey in 1987. The average total subsidence during the 17- to 18-year period was about 1.3 inches in Tucson Basin and about 2.8 inches in Avra Valley. Three stations in Tucson Basin showed subsidence greater than 4 inches for the period - 5 inches at stations C45 and X419 and 4.1 inches at station PA4. In Avra Valley, two stations showed subsidence for the 17- to 18-year period greater than 4 inches - 4.3 inches at station AV25 and 4.8 inches at station SA105. In 1983, fourteen wells were fitted with borehole extensometers to monitor water-level fluctuations and aquifer-system compaction. Continuous records of water level and aquifer-system compaction indicate that as much as 45 feet of water-level decline and 4 inches of aquifer-system compaction occurred in Tucson Basin from January 1989 through December, 2005. In Avra Valley, extensometer data indicate that as much as 55 feet of water-level decline and 1.7 inches of aquifer-system compaction occurred during the same time period. Rates of compaction vary throughout the extensometer network, with the greater rates of compaction being associated with areas of greater water-level decline and more compressible sediments. In Avra Valley, data from the Global Positioning System surveys indicate that more than half of the total subsidence of the land surface may be the result of aquifer-system compaction below the portion of the aquifer instrumented with the vertical extensometers. For the area in the northern part of Tucson Basin between the Rillito and Santa Cruz rivers, an Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar interferogram indicates that about 1.65 inches of subsidence occurred between 2003 and 2006. Between 2002 and 2004, the Global Positioning System

Correlation of PET and AMS analyses for early kinetics of 2-fluoro-2-deoxyglucose (FDG)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Minamimoto, Ryogo; Hamabe, Yoshimi; Miyaoka, Teiji; Theeraladanon, Chumpol; Oka, Takashi; Matsui, Takao; Inoue, Tomio

2010-04-01

The draft of the guidelines for microdosing in clinical trials was published in Japan in 2008 following the guidelines of the European Medicines Agency (EMEA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It recommends utilizing accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS), liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS), and positron emission tomography (PET) for monitoring drug metabolites in preclinical studies. In this study, we clarified the correlation in measuring result between PET and AMS. The AMS measurement was undergone by using AMS system of Institute of Accelerator Analysis Ltd. (IAA, Kawasaki, Japan). First the back ground 14C level of blood in mice was measured by AMS. Second, we clarified the relationship between AMS and PET by using 2-fluoro-2-deoxyglucose (FDG). The correlation coefficient ( r) of the measurements using PET ( 18F-FDG) and AMS ( 14C-FDG) were quite high at 0.97 ( Y = 7.54 E - 05 X + 0.02, p < 0.001). The blood clearance profile of 18F-FDG was nearly identical with that of 14C-FDG. These results indicate that the AMS analysis has excellent correlation with the PET method.

Sessile alveolar macrophages communicate with alveolar epithelium to modulate immunity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Westphalen, Kristin; Gusarova, Galina A.; Islam, Mohammad N.; Subramanian, Manikandan; Cohen, Taylor S.; Prince, Alice S.; Bhattacharya, Jahar

2014-02-01

The tissue-resident macrophages of barrier organs constitute the first line of defence against pathogens at the systemic interface with the ambient environment. In the lung, resident alveolar macrophages (AMs) provide a sentinel function against inhaled pathogens. Bacterial constituents ligate Toll-like receptors (TLRs) on AMs, causing AMs to secrete proinflammatory cytokines that activate alveolar epithelial receptors, leading to recruitment of neutrophils that engulf pathogens. Because the AM-induced response could itself cause tissue injury, it is unclear how AMs modulate the response to prevent injury. Here, using real-time alveolar imaging in situ, we show that a subset of AMs attached to the alveolar wall form connexin 43 (Cx43)-containing gap junction channels with the epithelium. During lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation, the AMs remained sessile and attached to the alveoli, and they established intercommunication through synchronized Ca2+ waves, using the epithelium as the conducting pathway. The intercommunication was immunosuppressive, involving Ca2+-dependent activation of Akt, because AM-specific knockout of Cx43 enhanced alveolar neutrophil recruitment and secretion of proinflammatory cytokines in the bronchoalveolar lavage. A picture emerges of a novel immunomodulatory process in which a subset of alveolus-attached AMs intercommunicates immunosuppressive signals to reduce endotoxin-induced lung inflammation.

Booster Test for Space Launch System Rocket

NASA Image and Video Library

2016-06-26

The test area where the second and final qualification motor (QM-2) test for the Space Launch System’s booster is seen Sunday, June 26, 2016, at Orbital ATK Propulsion Systems test facilities in Promontory, Utah. The test is scheduled for Tuesday, June 28 at 10:05 a.m. EDT (8:05 a.m. MDT). Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

40 CFR 60.1245 - Am I exempt from any appendix B or appendix F requirements to evaluate continuous emission...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... appendix F requirements to evaluate continuous emission monitoring systems? 60.1245 Section 60.1245... Commenced After June 6, 2001 Continuous Emission Monitoring § 60.1245 Am I exempt from any appendix B or... carbon dioxide) continuous emission monitoring system. Therefore, your oxygen (or carbon dioxide...

P-16: The Last Education Reform. Book One: Reflections on School Restructuring and the Establishment of Local Preschool through College Compacts

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rochford, Joseph A.; O'Neill, Adrienne; Gelb, Adele; Ross, Kimberly J.

2005-01-01

The first in a series of three books on P-16 systems of education, P-16: The Last Education Reform chronicles the establishment of Ohio's first regional P-16 Compact and how one community began the process of large scale systemic education reform not just for K-12 education, but for its entire education system--preschool through college and…

Polarimetric Intensity Parameterization of Radar and Other Remote Sensing Sources for Advanced Exploitation and Data Fusion: Theory

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-10-01

is theoretically similar to the concept of “partial or compact polarimetry”, yields comparable results to full or quadrature-polarized systems by...to the emerging “compact polarimetry” methodology [9]-[13] that exploits scattering system response to an incomplete set of input EM field components...a scattering operator or matrix. Although as theoretically discussed earlier, performance of such fully-polarized radar system (i.e., quadrature

Compact Color Schlieren Optical System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Buchele, Donald R.; Griffin, Devon W.

1996-01-01

Compact, rugged optical system developed for use in rainbow schlieren deflectometry. Features unobscured telescope with focal-length/aperture-width ratio of 30. Made of carefully selected but relatively inexpensive parts. All of lenses stock items. By-product of design is optical system with loose tolerances on interlens spacing. One of resulting advantages, insensitivity to errors in fabrication of optomechanical mounts. Another advantage is ability to compensate for some of unit-to-unit variations inherent in stock lenses.

Robustness of a compact endfire personal audio system against scattering effects (L).

PubMed

Tu, Zhen; Lu, Jing; Qiu, Xiaojun

2016-10-01

Compact loudspeaker arrays have wide potential applications as portable personal audio systems that can project sound energy to specified regions. It is meaningful to investigate the scattering effects on the array performance since the scattering of the users' heads is inevitable in practice. A five-channel compact endfire array is established and the regularized acoustic contrast control method is evaluated for the scenarios of one moving listener and one listener fixed in the bright zone while another listener moves along the evaluation region. Both simulations and experiments verify that the scattering has limited influence on the directivity of the endfire array.

Acoustic-Emergent Phonology in the Amplitude Envelope of Child-Directed Speech

PubMed Central

Leong, Victoria; Goswami, Usha

2015-01-01

When acquiring language, young children may use acoustic spectro-temporal patterns in speech to derive phonological units in spoken language (e.g., prosodic stress patterns, syllables, phonemes). Children appear to learn acoustic-phonological mappings rapidly, without direct instruction, yet the underlying developmental mechanisms remain unclear. Across different languages, a relationship between amplitude envelope sensitivity and phonological development has been found, suggesting that children may make use of amplitude modulation (AM) patterns within the envelope to develop a phonological system. Here we present the Spectral Amplitude Modulation Phase Hierarchy (S-AMPH) model, a set of algorithms for deriving the dominant AM patterns in child-directed speech (CDS). Using Principal Components Analysis, we show that rhythmic CDS contains an AM hierarchy comprising 3 core modulation timescales. These timescales correspond to key phonological units: prosodic stress (Stress AM, ~2 Hz), syllables (Syllable AM, ~5 Hz) and onset-rime units (Phoneme AM, ~20 Hz). We argue that these AM patterns could in principle be used by naïve listeners to compute acoustic-phonological mappings without lexical knowledge. We then demonstrate that the modulation statistics within this AM hierarchy indeed parse the speech signal into a primitive hierarchically-organised phonological system comprising stress feet (proto-words), syllables and onset-rime units. We apply the S-AMPH model to two other CDS corpora, one spontaneous and one deliberately-timed. The model accurately identified 72–82% (freely-read CDS) and 90–98% (rhythmically-regular CDS) stress patterns, syllables and onset-rime units. This in-principle demonstration that primitive phonology can be extracted from speech AMs is termed Acoustic-Emergent Phonology (AEP) theory. AEP theory provides a set of methods for examining how early phonological development is shaped by the temporal modulation structure of speech across languages. The S-AMPH model reveals a crucial developmental role for stress feet (AMs ~2 Hz). Stress feet underpin different linguistic rhythm typologies, and speech rhythm underpins language acquisition by infants in all languages. PMID:26641472

Acoustic-Emergent Phonology in the Amplitude Envelope of Child-Directed Speech.

PubMed

Leong, Victoria; Goswami, Usha

2015-01-01

When acquiring language, young children may use acoustic spectro-temporal patterns in speech to derive phonological units in spoken language (e.g., prosodic stress patterns, syllables, phonemes). Children appear to learn acoustic-phonological mappings rapidly, without direct instruction, yet the underlying developmental mechanisms remain unclear. Across different languages, a relationship between amplitude envelope sensitivity and phonological development has been found, suggesting that children may make use of amplitude modulation (AM) patterns within the envelope to develop a phonological system. Here we present the Spectral Amplitude Modulation Phase Hierarchy (S-AMPH) model, a set of algorithms for deriving the dominant AM patterns in child-directed speech (CDS). Using Principal Components Analysis, we show that rhythmic CDS contains an AM hierarchy comprising 3 core modulation timescales. These timescales correspond to key phonological units: prosodic stress (Stress AM, ~2 Hz), syllables (Syllable AM, ~5 Hz) and onset-rime units (Phoneme AM, ~20 Hz). We argue that these AM patterns could in principle be used by naïve listeners to compute acoustic-phonological mappings without lexical knowledge. We then demonstrate that the modulation statistics within this AM hierarchy indeed parse the speech signal into a primitive hierarchically-organised phonological system comprising stress feet (proto-words), syllables and onset-rime units. We apply the S-AMPH model to two other CDS corpora, one spontaneous and one deliberately-timed. The model accurately identified 72-82% (freely-read CDS) and 90-98% (rhythmically-regular CDS) stress patterns, syllables and onset-rime units. This in-principle demonstration that primitive phonology can be extracted from speech AMs is termed Acoustic-Emergent Phonology (AEP) theory. AEP theory provides a set of methods for examining how early phonological development is shaped by the temporal modulation structure of speech across languages. The S-AMPH model reveals a crucial developmental role for stress feet (AMs ~2 Hz). Stress feet underpin different linguistic rhythm typologies, and speech rhythm underpins language acquisition by infants in all languages.

Uptake and intracellular activity of AM-1155 in phagocytic cells.

PubMed Central

Yamamoto, T; Kusajima, H; Hosaka, M; Fukuda, H; Oomori, Y; Shinoda, H

1996-01-01

The uptake and intracellular activity of AM-1155 in murine J774.1 macrophages and human polymorphonuclear leukocytes were investigated. AM-1155 penetrated phagocytic cells rapidly and reversibly, although the penetration process was not affected by metabolic inhibitors such as sodium fluoride, cyanide m-chlorophenylhydrazone, or ouabain or by nucleoside transport system inhibitors such as adenosine. The intracellular concentration-to-extracellular concentration ratio of AM-1155 in both cell types of phagocytes ranged from 5 to 7. These ratios were almost equal to those for sparfloxacin. The intracellular activity of AM-1155 in J774.1 macrophages, examined with Staphylococcus aureus 209P as a test bacterium, was dependent on the extracellular concentration. AM-1155 at a concentration of 1 microgram/ml reduced the number of viable cells of S. aureus ingested by more than 90%. The intracellular activity of AM-1155 was more potent than those of sparfloxacin, ofloxacin, ciprofloxacin, flomoxef, and erythromycin. These results suggest that the potent intracellular activity of AM-1155 might mainly be due to the high intracellular concentration and its potent in vitro activity. PMID:9124835

Effect of roll-compaction and milling conditions on granules and tablet properties.

PubMed

Perez-Gandarillas, Lucia; Perez-Gago, Ana; Mazor, Alon; Kleinebudde, Peter; Lecoq, Olivier; Michrafy, Abderrahim

2016-09-01

Dry granulation is an agglomeration process used to produce size-enlarged particles (granules), improving the handling properties of powders such as flowability. In this process, powders are compacted using a roll press to produce ribbons, which are milled in granules used further in the tableting process. The granule and tablet properties are influenced by the existence of different designs of the roll compactors, milling systems and the interaction between process parameters and raw material properties. The main objective of this work was to investigate how different roll-compaction conditions and milling process parameters impact on ribbons, granules and tablet properties, highlighting the role of the sealing system (cheek plates and rimmed roll). In this context, two common excipients differing in their mechanical behaviour (MCC and mannitol) are used. The study is based on the analysis of granule size distribution together with the characterization of loss of compactability during die compaction. Results show that the tensile strength of tablets is lower when using granules than when the raw materials are compressed. Moreover, the plastic material (MCC) is more sensitive than the brittle one (mannitol). Regarding the roll-force, it is observed that the higher the roll force, the lower the tensile strength of tablets from granulated material is. These findings are in agreement with the literature. The comparison of sealing systems shows that the rimmed-roll system leads to slightly stronger tablets than the use of cheek plates. In addition, the use of the rimmed-roll system reduces the amount of fines, in particular when high roll force is applied. Overall, it can be concluded that roll-compaction effect is predominant over the milling effect on the production of fines but less significant on the tablet properties. This study points out that the balance between a good flowability by reducing the amount of fines and appropriate tablet strength is achieved with rimmed-roll and the highest roll-force used. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Observational properties of compact groups of galaxies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hickson, Paul

1990-01-01

Compact groups are small, relatively isolated, systems of galaxies with projected separations comparable to the diameters of the galaxies themselves. Two well-known examples are Stephan's Quintet (Stephan, 1877) and Seyfert's Sextet (Seyfert 1948a,b). In groups such as these, the apparent space density of galaxies approaches 10(exp 6) Mpc(sub -3), denser even than the cores of rich clusters. The apparent unlikeliness of the chance occurrence of such tight groupings lead Ambartsumyan (1958, 1975) to conclude that compact groups must be physically dense systems. This view is supported by clear signs of galaxy interactions that are seen in many groups. Spectroscopic observations reveal that typical relative velocities of galaxies in the groups are comparable to their internal stellar velocities. This should be conducive to strong gravitational interactions - more so than in rich clusters, where galaxy velocities are typically much higher. This suggests that compact groups could be excellent laboratories in which to study galaxy interactions and their effects. Compact groups often contain one or more galaxies whose redshift differs greatly from those of the other group members. If these galaxies are at the same distance as the other members, either entire galaxies are being ejected at high velocities from these groups, or some new physical phenomena must be occurring. If their redshifts are cosmological, we must explain why so many discordant galaxies are found in compact groups. In recent years much progress has been made in addressing these questions. Here, the author discusses the current observational data on compact groups and their implications.

Antifungal Efficacy of an Intravenous Formulation Containing Monomeric Amphotericin B, 5-Fluorocytosine, and Saline for Sodium Supplementation

PubMed Central

Alvarez, Celeste; Andes, David R.; Kang, Jeong Yeon; Krug, Carmen; Kwon, Glen S.

2017-01-01

Purpose Amphotericin B (AmB) and 5-fluorocytosine (5-FC) exhibit additive to synergistic activity against systemic mycoses. Incompatibility of prescribed formulations precludes concomitant IV administration, a route with distinct advantages. Previously, we used PEG-DSPE micelles to produce a reformulation of Fungizone (AmB-SD), AmB solubilized by sodium deoxycholate, called mAmB-90. Herein, we describe a second reformulation that facilitates co-delivery of mAmB-90 and 5-FC, and evaluate the effect of PEG-DSPE micelles on the combination’s activity against Candida albicans. Methods We assessed the effect of 5-FC addition on the stability, in vitro toxicity, and antifungal efficacy of mAmB-90. The aggregation state and particle size of mAmB-90 combined with 5-FC (FmAmB-90) was evaluated over 48 hours. Hemolytic activity was measured in vitro. Antifungal activity was determined in vitro against C. albicans. The efficacy of monotherapy and combination treatment was evaluated in a neutropenic mouse model of disseminated candidiasis. Results The aggregation state, particle size, and hemolytic activity of mAmB-90 were unaffected by 5-FC. While antifungal activity was similar in vitro, mAmB-90 alone and combined with 5-FC was more potent than AmB-SD in vivo. Conclusions Short-term stability and in vivo efficacy of our formulation suggest potential to simultaneously deliver AmB and 5-FC for potent antifungal efficacy. PMID:28205003

Antifungal Efficacy of an Intravenous Formulation Containing Monomeric Amphotericin B, 5-Fluorocytosine, and Saline for Sodium Supplementation.

PubMed

Alvarez, Celeste; Andes, David R; Kang, Jeong Yeon; Krug, Carmen; Kwon, Glen S

2017-05-01

Amphotericin B (AmB) and 5-fluorocytosine (5-FC) exhibit additive to synergistic activity against systemic mycoses. Incompatibility of prescribed formulations precludes concomitant IV administration, a route with distinct advantages. Previously, we used PEG-DSPE micelles to produce a reformulation of Fungizone (AmB-SD), AmB solubilized by sodium deoxycholate, called mAmB-90. Herein, we describe a second reformulation that facilitates co-delivery of mAmB-90 and 5-FC, and evaluate the effect of PEG-DSPE micelles on the combination's activity against Candida albicans. We assessed the effect of 5-FC addition on the stability, in vitro toxicity, and antifungal efficacy of mAmB-90. The aggregation state and particle size of mAmB-90 combined with 5-FC (FmAmB-90) was evaluated over 48 h. Hemolytic activity was measured in vitro. Antifungal activity was determined in vitro against C. albicans. The efficacy of monotherapy and combination treatment was evaluated in a neutropenic mouse model of disseminated candidiasis. The aggregation state, particle size, and hemolytic activity of mAmB-90 were unaffected by 5-FC. While antifungal activity was similar in vitro, mAmB-90 alone and combined with 5-FC was more potent than AmB-SD in vivo. Short-term stability and in vivo efficacy of our formulation suggest potential to simultaneously deliver AmB and 5-FC for potent antifungal efficacy.

Intercondylar roof impingement pressure after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in a porcine model.

PubMed

Iriuchishima, Takanori; Tajima, Goro; Ingham, Sheila J M; Shen, Wei; Horaguchi, Takashi; Saito, Akiyoshi; Smolinski, Patrick; Fu, Freddie H

2009-06-01

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) graft impingement against the intercondylar roof has been postulated, but not thoroughly investigated. The roof impingement pressure changes with different tibial and femoral tunnel positions in ACL reconstruction. Anterior tibial translation is also affected by the tunnel positions of ACL reconstruction. The study design included a controlled laboratory study. In 15 pig knees, the impingement pressure between ACL and intercondylar roof was measured using pressure sensitive film before and after ACL single bundle reconstruction. ACL reconstructions were performed in each knee with two different tibial and femoral tunnel position combinations: (1) tibial antero-medial (AM) tunnel to femoral AM tunnel (AM to AM) and (2) tibial postero-lateral (PL) tunnel to femoral High-AM tunnel (PL to High-AM). Anterior tibial translation (ATT) was evaluated after each ACL reconstruction using robotic/universal force-moment sensor testing system. Neither the AM to AM nor the PL to High-AM ACL reconstruction groups showed significant difference when compared with intact ACL in roof impingement pressure. The AM to AM group had a significantly higher failure load than PL to High-AM group. This study showed how different tunnel placements affect the ACL-roof impingement pressure and anterior-posterior laxity in ACL reconstruction. Anatomical ACL reconstruction does not cause roof impingement and it has a biomechanical advantage in ATT when compared with non-anatomical ACL reconstructions in the pig knee. There is no intercondylar roof impingement after anatomical single bundle ACL reconstruction.

Measurement of the open porosity of agricultural soils with acoustic waves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luong, Jeanne; Mercatoris, Benoit; Destain, Marie-France

2015-04-01

The space between agricultural soil aggregates is defined as structural porosity. It plays important roles in soil key functions that an agricultural soil performs in the global ecosystem. Porosity is one of the soil properties that affect plant growth along with soil texture, aggregate size, aeration and water holding capacity (Alaoui et al. 2011). Water supplies regulation of agricultural soil is related to the number of very small pores present in a soil due to the effect of capillarity. Change of porosity also affect the evaporation of the water on the surface (Le Maitre et al. 2014). Furthermore, soil is a habitat for soils organisms, and most living organisms, including plant roots and microorganisms require oxygen. These organisms breathe easier in a less compacted soil with a wide range of pores sizes. Soil compaction by agricultural engine degrades soil porosity. At the same time, fragmentation with tillage tools, creation of cracks due to wetting/drying and freezing/thawing cycles and effects of soil fauna can regenerate soil porosity. Soil compaction increases bulk density since soil grains are rearranged decreasing void space and bringing them into closer contact (Hamza & Anderson 2005). Drainage is reduced, erosion is facilitated and crop production decreases in a compacted soil. Determining soil porosity, giving insight on the soil compaction, with the aim to provide advices to farmers in their soil optimization towards crop production, is thus an important challenge. Acoustic wave velocity has been correlated to the porosity and the acoustic attenuation to the water content (Oelze et al. 2002). Recent studies have shown some correlations between the velocity of acoustic waves, the porosity and the stress state of soil samples (Lu et al. 2004; Lu 2005; Lu & Sabatier 2009), concluding that the ultrasonic waves are a promising tool for the rapid characterisation of unsaturated porous soils. Propagation wave velocity tends to decrease in a high porous soil, since there are more voids filled with air and water, increasing the viscous losses. Fellah et al. (2003) showed that porosity can be determined from phase speed and reflection coefficient. The propagation of acoustic waves in soil is investigated to develop a rapid method for the quantification of the porosity level of agricultural soils. In the present contribution, correlations are determined between the acoustic signatures of agricultural soil in function of its structural properties. In laboratory, compression tests are performed on unsaturated soil samples to reproduce different porosity levels. Ultrasonic pulses are sent through the considered samples. The propagated signals are treated in both time and frequency domains in order to determine the speed of the phase velocity and the reflection. Porosity is then determined and compared with water content measured by gravimetric method. Alaoui, A., Lipiec, J. & Gerke, H.H., 2011. A review of the changes in the soil pore system due to soil deformation: A hydrodynamic perspective. Soil and Tillage Research, 115-116, pp.1-15. Fellah Z.E.A., Berger S., Lauriks W., Depollier C., Aristegui C., Chapelon J.Y., 2003. Measuring the porosity and the tortuosity of porous materials via reflected waves at oblique incidence. The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America 113 (5), pp 2424-2433 Hamza, M.A. & Anderson, W.K., 2005. Soil compaction in cropping systems. Soil and Tillage Research, 82(2), pp.121-145. Lu, Z., 2005. Role of hysteresis in propagating acousitcs waves in soils. Geophysical Research Letter, pp.32:1-4. Lu, Z., Hickey, C.J. & Sabatier, J.M., 2004. Effects of compaction on the acoustic velocity in soils. Soil Science Society of America Journal, 68(1), pp.7-16. Lu, Z. & Sabatier, J.M., 2009. Effects of soil water potential and moisture content on sound speed. Soil Science Society of America Journal, 73(5), pp.1614-1625. Le Maitre, D.C., Kotzee, I.M. & O'Farrell, P.J., 2014. Impacts of land-cover change on the water flow regulation ecosystem service: Invasive alien plants, fire and their policy implications. Land Use Policy, 36, pp.171-181. Oelze, M.L., O'Briena, W.D. & Darmody, R.G., 2002. Measurement of attenuation and speed of sound in soils. Soil. Sci. Soc. Am. J.

Analysis of Technology for Compact Coherent Lidar

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Amzajerdian, Farzin

1997-01-01

In view of the recent advances in the area of solid state and semiconductor lasers has created new possibilities for the development of compact and reliable coherent lidars for a wide range of applications. These applications include: Automated Rendezvous and Capture, wind shear and clear air turbulence detection, aircraft wake vortex detection, and automobile collision avoidance. The work performed by the UAH personnel under this Delivery Order, concentrated on design and analyses of a compact coherent lidar system capable of measuring range and velocity of hard targets, and providing air mass velocity data. The following is the scope of this work. a. Investigate various laser sources and optical signal detection configurations in support of a compact and lightweight coherent laser radar to be developed for precision range and velocity measurements of hard and fuzzy targets. Through interaction with MSFC engineers, the most suitable laser source and signal detection technique that can provide a reliable compact and lightweight laser radar design will be selected. b. Analyze and specify the coherent laser radar system configuration and assist with its optical and electronic design efforts. Develop a system design including its optical layout design. Specify all optical components and provide the general requirements of the electronic subsystems including laser beam modulator and demodulator drivers, detector electronic interface, and the signal processor. c. Perform a thorough performance analysis to predict the system measurement range and accuracy. This analysis will utilize various coherent laser radar sensitivity formulations and different target models.

High-resolution compact spectrometer based on a custom-printed varied-line-spacing concave blazed grating.

PubMed

Chen, Jianwei; Chen, Wang; Zhang, Guodong; Lin, Hui; Chen, Shih-Chi

2017-05-29

We present the modeling, design and characterization of a compact spectrometer, achieving a resolution better than 1.5 nm throughout the visible spectrum (360-825 nm). The key component in the spectrometer is a custom-printed varied-line-space (VLS) concave blazed grating, where the groove density linearly decreases from the center of the grating (530 g/mm) at a rate of 0.58 nm/mm to the edge (528 g/mm). Parametric models have been established to deterministically link the system performance with the VLS grating design parameters, e.g., groove density, line-space varying rate, and to minimize the system footprint. Simulations have been performed in ZEMAX to confirm the results, indicating a 15% enhancement in system resolution versus common constant line-space (CLS) gratings. Next, the VLS concave blazed grating is fabricated via our vacuum nanoimprinting system, where a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) stamp is non-uniformly expanded to form the varied-line-spacing pattern from a planar commercial grating master (600 g/mm) for precision imprinting. The concave blazed grating is measured to have an absolute diffraction efficiency of 43%, higher than typical holographic gratings (~30%) used in the commercial compact spectrometers. The completed compact spectrometer contains only one optical component, i.e., the VLS concave grating, as well as an entrance slit and linear photodetector array, achieving a footprint of 11 × 11 × 3 cm 3 , which makes it the most compact and resolving (1.46 nm) spectrometer of its kind.

Computer Vision and Machine Learning for Autonomous Characterization of AM Powder Feedstocks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

DeCost, Brian L.; Jain, Harshvardhan; Rollett, Anthony D.; Holm, Elizabeth A.

2017-03-01

By applying computer vision and machine learning methods, we develop a system to characterize powder feedstock materials for metal additive manufacturing (AM). Feature detection and description algorithms are applied to create a microstructural scale image representation that can be used to cluster, compare, and analyze powder micrographs. When applied to eight commercial feedstock powders, the system classifies powder images into the correct material systems with greater than 95% accuracy. The system also identifies both representative and atypical powder images. These results suggest the possibility of measuring variations in powders as a function of processing history, relating microstructural features of powders to properties relevant to their performance in AM processes, and defining objective material standards based on visual images. A significant advantage of the computer vision approach is that it is autonomous, objective, and repeatable.

A compact, inexpensive infrared laser system for continuous-wave optical stimulation of the rat prostate cavernous nerves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Perkins, William C.; Lagoda, Gwen A.; Burnett, Arthur L.; Fried, Nathaniel M.

2014-03-01

Optical nerve stimulation (ONS) has been commonly performed in the laboratory using high-power, pulsed, infrared (IR) lasers including Holmium:YAG, diode, and Thulium fiber lasers. However, the relatively high cost of these lasers in comparison with conventional electrical nerve stimulation (ENS) equipment may represent a significant barrier to widespread adoption of ONS. Optical stimulation of the prostate cavernous nerves (CN's) has recently been reported using lower cost, continuous-wave (CW), all-fiber-based diode lasers. This preliminary study describes further miniaturization and cost reduction of the ONS system in the form of a compact, lightweight, cordless, and inexpensive IR laser. A 140-mW, 1560-nm diode laser was integrated with a green aiming beam and delivery optics into a compact ONS system. Surface and subsurface ONS was performed in a total of 5 rats, in vivo, with measurement of an intracavernous pressure (ICP) response during CW laser irradiation for 30 s with a spot diameter of 0.7 mm. Short-term, CW ONS of the prostate CN's is feasible using a compact, inexpensive, batterypowered IR laser diode system. This ONS system may represent an alternative to ENS for laboratory studies, and with further development, a handheld option for ONS in the clinic to identify and preserve the CN's during prostate cancer surgery.

Compaction Kinetics on Single DNAs: Purified Nucleosome Reconstitution Systems versus Crude Extract

PubMed Central

Wagner, Gaudeline; Bancaud, Aurélien; Quivy, Jean-Pierre; Clapier, Cédric; Almouzni, Geneviève; Viovy, Jean-Louis

2005-01-01

Kinetics of compaction on single DNA molecules are studied by fluorescence videomicroscopy in the presence of 1), Xenopus egg extracts and 2), purified nucleosome reconstitution systems using a combination of histones with either the histone chaperone Nucleosome Assembly Protein (NAP-1) or negatively charged macromolecules such as polyglutamic acid and RNA. The comparison shows that the compaction rates can differ by a factor of up to 1000 for the same amount of histones, depending on the system used and on the presence of histone tails, which can be subjected to post-translational modifications. Reactions with purified reconstitution systems follow a slow and sequential mechanism, compatible with the deposition of one (H3-H4)2 tetramer followed by two (H2A-H2B) dimers. Addition of the histone chaperone NAP-1 increases both the rate of the reaction and the packing ratio of the final product. These stimulatory effects cannot be obtained with polyglutamic acid or RNA, suggesting that yNAP-1 impact on the reaction cannot simply be explained in terms of charge screening. Faster compaction kinetics and higher packing ratios are reproducibly reached with extracts, indicating a role of additional components present in this system. Data are discussed and models proposed to account for the kinetics obtained in our single-molecule assay. PMID:16100259

Designing Better Scaffolding in Teaching Complex Systems with Graphical Simulations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Na

Complex systems are an important topic in science education today, but they are usually difficult for secondary-level students to learn. Although graphic simulations have many advantages in teaching complex systems, scaffolding is a critical factor for effective learning. This dissertation study was conducted around two complementary research questions on scaffolding: (1) How can we chunk and sequence learning activities in teaching complex systems? (2) How can we help students make connections among system levels across learning activities (level bridging)? With a sample of 123 seventh-graders, this study employed a 3x2 experimental design that factored sequencing methods (independent variable 1; three levels) with level-bridging scaffolding (independent variable 2; two levels) and compared the effectiveness of each combination. The study measured two dependent variables: (1) knowledge integration (i.e., integrating and connecting content-specific normative concepts and providing coherent scientific explanations); (2) understanding of the deep causal structure (i.e., being able to grasp and transfer the causal knowledge of a complex system). The study used a computer-based simulation environment as the research platform to teach the ideal gas law as a system. The ideal gas law is an emergent chemical system that has three levels: (1) experiential macro level (EM) (e.g., an aerosol can explodes when it is thrown into the fire); (2) abstract macro level (AM) (i.e., the relationships among temperature, pressure and volume); (3) micro level (Mi) (i.e., molecular activity). The sequencing methods of these levels were manipulated by changing the order in which they were delivered with three possibilities: (1) EM-AM-Mi; (2) Mi-AM-EM; (3) AM-Mi-EM. The level-bridging scaffolding variable was manipulated on two aspects: (1) inserting inter-level questions among learning activities; (2) two simulations dynamically linked in the final learning activity. Addressing the first research question, the Experiential macro-Abstract macro-Micro (EM-AM-Mi) sequencing method, following the "concrete to abstract" principle, produced better knowledge integration while the Micro-Abstract macro-Experiential macro (Mi-AM-EM) sequencing method, congruent with the causal direction of the emergent system, produced better understanding of the deep causal structure only when level-bridging scaffolding was provided. The Abstract macro-Micro-Experiential macro (AM-Mi-EM) sequencing method produced worse performance in general, because it did not follow the "concrete to abstract" principle, nor did it align with the causal structure of the emergent system. As to the second research question, the results showed that level-bridging scaffolding was important for both knowledge integration and understanding of the causal structure in learning the ideal gas law system.

Evaluation of submarine strain-gage systems for monitoring coastal sediment migration

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shideler, G. L.; Mcgrath, D. G.

1973-01-01

Single and multiple strain-gage systems were respectively evaluated as in situ point and areal sensors for monitoring sand-height variations in coastal environments. Static loading tests indicate that gage response pressure is linear for sand heights up to 24 inches. Response pressures are a function of both sand height and aggregate density, with density being influenced by both sediment texture and degree of compaction. Poorer sediment sorting and greater compaction result in higher response pressures. Field tests in a beach foreshore environment indicate that the gage systems are effective qualitative instruments for monitoring long-period migration trends of beach sediments; whereas, short-period responses are not sufficiently reliable. The durability and compactness of the gage systems must be substantially increased for effective field operations. It is recommended that the systems' qualitative potentials be further developed, whereas their development as quantitative instruments be terminated. Further development should emphasize the construction of remote recording systems designed for semipermanent installation.

Compact microwave imaging system to measure spatial distribution of plasma density

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ito, H.; Oba, R.; Yugami, N.; Nishida, Y.

2004-10-01

We have developed an advanced microwave interferometric system operating in the K band (18-27 GHz) with the use of a fan-shaped microwave based on a heterodyne detection system for measuring the spatial distribution of the plasma density. In order to make a simple, low-cost, and compact microwave interferometer with better spatial resolution, a microwave scattering technique by a microstrip antenna array is employed. Experimental results show that the imaging system with the microstrip antenna array can have finer spatial resolution than one with the diode antenna array and reconstruct a good spatially resolved image of the finite size dielectric phantoms placed between the horn antenna and the micro strip antenna array. The precise two-dimensional electron density distribution of the cylindrical plasma produced by an electron cyclotron resonance has been observed. As a result, the present imaging system is more suitable for a two- or three-dimensional display of the objects or stationary plasmas and it is possible to realize a compact microwave imaging system.

IL-10 Dysregulation in Acute Mountain Sickness Revealed by Transcriptome Analysis

PubMed Central

Liu, Bao; Chen, Jian; Zhang, Long; Gao, Yixing; Cui, Jianhua; Zhang, Erlong; Xu, Gang; Liang, Yan; Liang, Yu; Wang, Jian; Gao, Yuqi

2017-01-01

Acute mountain sickness (AMS), which may progress to life-threatening high-altitude cerebral edema, is a major threat to millions of people who live in or travel to high altitude. Although studies have revealed the risk factors and pathophysiology theories of AMS, the molecular mechanisms of it do not comprehensively illustrate. Here, we used a system-level methodology, RNA sequencing, to explore the molecular mechanisms of AMS at genome-wide level in 10 individuals. After exposure to high altitude, a total of 1,164 and 1,322 differentially expressed transcripts were identified in AMS and non-AMS groups, respectively. Among them, only 328 common transcripts presented between the two groups. Immune and inflammatory responses were overrepresented in participants with AMS, but not in non-AMS individuals. Anti-inflammatory cytokine IL10 and inflammation cytokines IF17F and CCL8 exhibited significantly different genetic connectivity in AMS compared to that of non-AMS individuals based on network analysis. IL10 was downregulated and both IF17F and CCL8 were upregulated in AMS individuals. Moreover, the serum concentration of IL10 significantly decreased in AMS patients after exposure to high altitude (p = 0.001) in another population (n = 22). There was a large negative correlation between the changes in IL10 concentration, r(22) = −0.52, p = 0.013, and Lake Louise Score. Taken together, our analysis provides unprecedented characterization of AMS transcriptome and identifies that genes involved in immune and inflammatory responses were disturbed in AMS individuals by high-altitude exposure. The reduction of IL10 after exposure to high altitude was associated with AMS. PMID:28611780

Development of a compact in situ polarized ³He neutron spin filter at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

PubMed

Jiang, C Y; Tong, X; Brown, D R; Chi, S; Christianson, A D; Kadron, B J; Robertson, J L; Winn, B L

2014-07-01

We constructed a compact in situ polarized (3)He neutron spin filter based on spin-exchange optical pumping which is capable of continuous pumping of the (3)He gas while the system is in place in the neutron beam on an instrument. The compact size and light weight of the system simplifies its utilization on various neutron instruments. The system has been successfully tested as a neutron polarizer on the triple-axis spectrometer (HB3) and the hybrid spectrometer (HYSPEC) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Over 70% (3)He polarization was achieved and maintained during the test experiments. Over 90% neutron polarization and an average of 25% transmission for neutrons of 14.7 meV and 15 meV was also obtained.

A hybrid voice/data modulation for the VHF aeronautical channels

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Akos, Dennis M.

1993-01-01

A method of improving the spectral efficiency of the existing Very High Frequency (VHF) Amplitude Modulation (AM) voice communication channels is proposed. The technique is to phase modulate the existing voice amplitude modulated carrier with digital data. This allows the transmission of digital information over an existing AM voice channel with no change to the existing AM signal format. There is no modification to the existing AM receiver to demodulate the voice signal and an additional receiver module can be added for processing of the digital data. The existing VHF AM transmitter requires only a slight modification for the addition of the digital data signal. The past work in the area is summarized and presented together with an improved system design and the proposed implementation.

Experimental Measurement and Numerical Modeling of the Effective Thermal Conductivity of TRISO Fuel Compacts

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

Folsom, Charles; Xing, Changhu; Jensen, Colby

2015-03-01

Accurate modeling capability of thermal conductivity of tristructural-isotropic (TRISO) fuel compacts is important to fuel performance modeling and safety of Generation IV reactors. To date, the effective thermal conductivity (ETC) of tristructural-isotropic (TRISO) fuel compacts has not been measured directly. The composite fuel is a complicated structure comprised of layered particles in a graphite matrix. In this work, finite element modeling is used to validate an analytic ETC model for application to the composite fuel material for particle-volume fractions up to 40%. The effect of each individual layer of a TRISO particle is analyzed showing that the overall ETC ofmore » the compact is most sensitive to the outer layer constituent. In conjunction with the modeling results, the thermal conductivity of matrix-graphite compacts and the ETC of surrogate TRISO fuel compacts have been successfully measured using a previously developed measurement system. The ETC of the surrogate fuel compacts varies between 50 and 30 W m -1 K -1 over a temperature range of 50-600°C. As a result of the numerical modeling and experimental measurements of the fuel compacts, a new model and approach for analyzing the effect of compact constituent materials on ETC is proposed that can estimate the fuel compact ETC with approximately 15-20% more accuracy than the old method. Using the ETC model with measured thermal conductivity of the graphite matrix-only material indicate that, in the composite form, the matrix material has a much greater thermal conductivity, which is attributed to the high anisotropy of graphite thermal conductivity. Therefore, simpler measurements of individual TRISO compact constituents combined with an analytic ETC model, will not provide accurate predictions of overall ETC of the compacts emphasizing the need for measurements of composite, surrogate compacts.« less

40 CFR 62.15190 - Am I exempt from any 40 CFR part 60 appendix B or appendix F requirements to evaluate continuous...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 9 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Am I exempt from any 40 CFR part 60... Emission Monitoring § 62.15190 Am I exempt from any 40 CFR part 60 appendix B or appendix F requirements to... emission monitoring system require you to also evaluate your oxygen (or carbon dioxide) continuous emission...

40 CFR 62.15190 - Am I exempt from any 40 CFR part 60 appendix B or appendix F requirements to evaluate continuous...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 9 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Am I exempt from any 40 CFR part 60... Emission Monitoring § 62.15190 Am I exempt from any 40 CFR part 60 appendix B or appendix F requirements to... emission monitoring system require you to also evaluate your oxygen (or carbon dioxide) continuous emission...

40 CFR 62.15190 - Am I exempt from any 40 CFR part 60 appendix B or appendix F requirements to evaluate continuous...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 9 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Am I exempt from any 40 CFR part 60... Emission Monitoring § 62.15190 Am I exempt from any 40 CFR part 60 appendix B or appendix F requirements to... emission monitoring system require you to also evaluate your oxygen (or carbon dioxide) continuous emission...

Molecular Characterization of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi in an Agroforestry System Reveals the Predominance of Funneliformis spp. Associated with Colocasia esculenta and Pterocarpus officinalis Adult Trees and Seedlings.

PubMed

Geoffroy, Alexandre; Sanguin, Hervé; Galiana, Antoine; Bâ, Amadou

2017-01-01

Pterocarpus officinalis (Jacq.) is a leguminous forestry tree species endemic to Caribbean swamp forests. In Guadeloupe, smallholder farmers traditionally cultivate flooded taro ( Colocasia esculenta ) cultures under the canopy of P. officinalis stands. The role of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi in the sustainability of this traditional agroforestry system has been suggested but the composition and distribution of AM fungi colonizing the leguminous tree and/or taro are poorly characterized. An in-depth characterization of root-associated AM fungal communities from P. officinalis adult trees and seedlings and taro cultures, sampled in two localities of Guadeloupe, was performed by pyrosequencing (GS FLX+) of partial 18S rRNA gene. The AM fungal community was composed of 215 operational taxonomic units (OTUs), belonging to eight fungal families dominated by Glomeraceae, Acaulosporaceae, and Gigasporaceae. Results revealed a low AM fungal community membership between P. officinalis and C. esculenta . However, certain AM fungal community taxa (10% of total community) overlapped between P. officinalis and C. esculenta , notably predominant Funneliformis OTUs. These findings provide new perspectives in deciphering the significance of Funneliformis in nutrient exchange between P. officinalis and C. esculenta by forming a potential mycorrhizal network.

Molecular Characterization of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi in an Agroforestry System Reveals the Predominance of Funneliformis spp. Associated with Colocasia esculenta and Pterocarpus officinalis Adult Trees and Seedlings

PubMed Central

Geoffroy, Alexandre; Sanguin, Hervé; Galiana, Antoine; Bâ, Amadou

2017-01-01

Pterocarpus officinalis (Jacq.) is a leguminous forestry tree species endemic to Caribbean swamp forests. In Guadeloupe, smallholder farmers traditionally cultivate flooded taro (Colocasia esculenta) cultures under the canopy of P. officinalis stands. The role of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi in the sustainability of this traditional agroforestry system has been suggested but the composition and distribution of AM fungi colonizing the leguminous tree and/or taro are poorly characterized. An in-depth characterization of root-associated AM fungal communities from P. officinalis adult trees and seedlings and taro cultures, sampled in two localities of Guadeloupe, was performed by pyrosequencing (GS FLX+) of partial 18S rRNA gene. The AM fungal community was composed of 215 operational taxonomic units (OTUs), belonging to eight fungal families dominated by Glomeraceae, Acaulosporaceae, and Gigasporaceae. Results revealed a low AM fungal community membership between P. officinalis and C. esculenta. However, certain AM fungal community taxa (10% of total community) overlapped between P. officinalis and C. esculenta, notably predominant Funneliformis OTUs. These findings provide new perspectives in deciphering the significance of Funneliformis in nutrient exchange between P. officinalis and C. esculenta by forming a potential mycorrhizal network. PMID:28804479

Effects of mannan oligosaccharide on cytokine secretions by porcine alveolar macrophages and serum cytokine concentrations in nursery pigs.

PubMed

Che, T M; Johnson, R W; Kelley, K W; Dawson, K A; Moran, C A; Pettigrew, J E

2012-02-01

This study explored the hypothesis that mannan oligosaccharide (MOS) acts to reduce systemic inflammation in pigs by evaluating cytokine production of alveolar macrophages (AM) and serum cytokine concentrations. A total of 160 pigs were fed diets containing 0.2 or 0.4% MOS for 2 or 4 wk postweaning compared with control diets without MOS. Dietary MOS did not affect the serum concentration of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and tended (P = 0.081) to increase that of IL-10. These cytokine concentrations also changed over time (P < 0.001). After 2-wk feeding of the control or MOS diets, AM were collected and stimulated ex vivo with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (PLIC) as infection models. The LPS-stimulated AM from MOS-fed pigs (n = 12) secreted less TNF-α (P < 0.001) and more IL-10 (P = 0.026) than those from control-fed pigs (n = 6). However, dietary MOS had less effect on ex vivo TNF-α and IL-10 production by PLIC-stimulated AM (P = 0.091 and P > 0.10, respectively. Further, effects of MOS were examined in 4 in vitro experiments. In Exp. 1 (n = 4 pigs), MOS and mannan-rich fraction (MRF), when added to AM cultures, were able to increase TNF-α production. This direct effect of MOS was not due to endotoxin contamination as verified in Exp. 2 (n = 6 pigs) using polymyxin B, an inhibitor of LPS activation of toll-like receptor 4. Polymyxin B inhibited production of TNF-α by AM after treatment with LPS (P < 0.001), but not after treatment with MOS in the absence of LPS (P > 0.70). In Exp. 3 (n = 6 pigs), when MOS was directly applied in vitro, the pattern of cytokine production by LPS-activated AM was similar to that observed ex vivo, as MOS suppressed LPS-induced TNF-α (P < 0.001) and enhanced LPS-induced IL-10 (P = 0.028). In Exp. 4 (n = 6 pigs), when MRF replaced MOS, AM-produced TNF-α induced by LPS or PLIC was suppressed by MRF (P = 0.015 or P < 0.001, respectively). These data establish that MOS and MRF suppress LPS-induced TNF-α secretions by AM. Generally, the study suggests that MOS may be a potent immunomodulator because it directly activates AM to secrete TNF-α and alters the cytokine responses of bacterial endotoxin-induced AM in both ex vivo and in vitro systems. In particular, feeding MOS to pigs for 2 wk reduces TNF-α and increases IL-10 concentrations after ex vivo treatment of AM with LPS. These immunomodulatory properties of MOS may have important implications for both host defense and avoidance of harmful overstimulation of the immune system.

Compact MEMS-based adaptive optics: optical coherence tomography for clinical use

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Diana C.; Olivier, Scot S.; Jones, Steven M.; Zawadzki, Robert J.; Evans, Julia W.; Choi, Stacey S.; Werner, John S.

2008-02-01

We describe a compact MEMS-based adaptive optics (AO) optical coherence tomography (OCT) system with improved AO performance and ease of clinical use. A typical AO system consists of a Shack-Hartmann wavefront sensor and a deformable mirror that measures and corrects the ocular and system aberrations. Because of limitations on current deformable mirror technologies, the amount of real-time ocular-aberration compensation is restricted and small in previous AO-OCT instruments. In this instrument, we incorporate an optical apparatus to correct the spectacle aberrations of the patients such as myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism. This eliminates the tedious process of using trial lenses in clinical imaging. Different amount of spectacle aberration compensation was achieved by motorized stages and automated with the AO computer for ease of clinical use. In addition, the compact AO-OCT was optimized to have minimum system aberrations to reduce AO registration errors and improve AO performance.

A trait-based framework to understand life history of mycorrhizal fungi.

PubMed

Chagnon, Pierre-Luc; Bradley, Robert L; Maherali, Hafiz; Klironomos, John N

2013-09-01

Despite the growing appreciation for the functional diversity of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi, our understanding of the causes and consequences of this diversity is still poor. In this opinion article, we review published data on AM fungal functional traits and attempt to identify major axes of life history variation. We propose that a life history classification system based on the grouping of functional traits, such as Grime's C-S-R (competitor, stress tolerator, ruderal) framework, can help to explain life history diversification in AM fungi, successional dynamics, and the spatial structure of AM fungal assemblages. Using a common life history classification framework for both plants and AM fungi could also help in predicting probable species associations in natural communities and increase our fundamental understanding of the interaction between land plants and AM fungi. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Reduced mycorrhizal colonization (rmc) tomato mutant lacks expression of SymRK signaling pathway genes

PubMed Central

Nair, Aswathy; Bhargava, Sujata

2012-01-01

Comparison of the expression of 13 genes involved in arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) symbiosis was performed in a wild type tomato (Solanum lycopersicum cv 76R) and its reduced mycorrhizal colonization mutant rmc in response to colonization with Glomus fasiculatum. Four defense-related genes were induced to a similar extent in the mutant and wild type AM colonized plants, indicating a systemic response to AM colonization. Genes related to nutrient exchange between the symbiont partners showed higher expression in the AM roots of wild type plants than the mutant plants, which correlated with their arbuscular frequency. A symbiosis receptor kinase that is involved in both nodulation and AM symbiosis was not expressed in the rmc mutant. The fact that some colonization was observed in rmc was suggestive of the existence of an alternate colonization signaling pathway for AM symbiosis in this mutant. PMID:23221680

[Effects of agricultural practices on community structure of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in agricultural ecosystem: a review].

PubMed

Sheng, Ping-Ping; Li, Min; Liu, Run-Jin

2011-06-01

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi are rich in diversity in agricultural ecosystem, playing a vital role based on their unique community structure. Host plants and environmental factors have important effects on AM fungal community structure, so do the agricultural practices which deserve to pay attention to. This paper summarized the research advances in the effects of agricultural practices such as irrigation, fertilization, crop rotation, intercropping, tillage, and pesticide application on AM fungal community structure, analyzed the related possible mechanisms, discussed the possible ways in improving AM fungal community structure in agricultural ecosystem, and put forward a set of countermeasures, i.e., improving fertilization system and related integrated techniques, increasing plant diversity in agricultural ecosystem, and inoculating AM fungi, to enhance the AM fungal diversity in agricultural ecosystem. The existing problems in current agricultural practices and further research directions were also proposed.

Regulation of alveolar macrophage death in acute lung inflammation.

PubMed

Fan, Erica K Y; Fan, Jie

2018-03-27

Acute lung injury (ALI) and its severe form, known as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), are caused by direct pulmonary insults and indirect systemic inflammatory responses that result from conditions such as sepsis, trauma, and major surgery. The reciprocal influences between pulmonary and systemic inflammation augments the inflammatory process in the lung and promotes the development of ALI. Emerging evidence has revealed that alveolar macrophage (AM) death plays important roles in the progression of lung inflammation through its influence on other immune cell populations in the lung. Cell death and tissue inflammation form a positive feedback cycle, ultimately leading to exaggerated inflammation and development of disease. Pharmacological manipulation of AM death signals may serve as a logical therapeutic strategy for ALI/ARDS. This review will focus on recent advances in the regulation and underlying mechanisms of AM death as well as the influence of AM death on the development of ALI.

Charting a Course through CORAL: Texas A&M University Libraries' Experience Implementing an Open-Source Electronic Resources Management System

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hartnett, Eric; Beh, Eugenia; Resnick, Taryn; Ugaz, Ana; Tabacaru, Simona

2013-01-01

In 2010, after two previous unsuccessful attempts at electronic resources management system (ERMS) implementation, Texas A&M University (TAMU) Libraries set out once again to find an ERMS that would fit its needs. After surveying the field, TAMU Libraries selected the University of Notre Dame Hesburgh Libraries-developed, open-source ERMS,…

Angle Measurement System (AMS) for Establishing Model Pitch and Roll Zero, and Performing Single Axis Angle Comparisons

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Crawford, Bradley L.

2007-01-01

The angle measurement system (AMS) developed at NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC) is a system for many uses. It was originally developed to check taper fits in the wind tunnel model support system. The system was further developed to measure simultaneous pitch and roll angles using 3 orthogonally mounted accelerometers (3-axis). This 3-axis arrangement is used as a transfer standard from the calibration standard to the wind tunnel facility. It is generally used to establish model pitch and roll zero and performs the in-situ calibration on model attitude devices. The AMS originally used a laptop computer running DOS based software but has recently been upgraded to operate in a windows environment. Other improvements have also been made to the software to enhance its accuracy and add features. This paper will discuss the accuracy and calibration methodologies used in this system and some of the features that have contributed to its popularity.

A compact two-wave dichrometer of an optical biosensor analytical system for medicine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chulkov, D. P.; Gusev, V. M.; Kompanets, O. N.; Vereschagin, F. V.; Skuridin, S. G.; Yevdokimov, Yu. M.

2017-01-01

An experimental model has been developed of a compact two-wave dichrometer on the base of LEDs that is well-suited to work with "liquid" DNA nanoconstructions as biosensing units. The mobile and inexpensive device is intended for use in a biosensor analytical system for rapid determination of biologically active compounds in liquids to solve practical problems of clinic medicine and pharmacology.

Initial data for high-compactness black hole-neutron star binaries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Henriksson, Katherine; Foucart, François; Kidder, Lawrence E.; Teukolsky, Saul A.

2016-05-01

For highly compact neutron stars, constructing numerical initial data for black hole-neutron star binary evolutions is very difficult. We describe improvements to an earlier method that enable it to handle these more challenging cases. These improvements were found by invoking a general relaxation principle that may be helpful in improving robustness in other initial data solvers. We examine the case of a 6:1 mass ratio system in inspiral close to merger, where the star is governed by a polytropic {{Γ }}=2, an SLy, or an LS220 equation of state (EOS). In particular, we are able to obtain a solution with a realistic LS220 EOS for a star with compactness 0.26 and mass 1.98 M ⊙, which is representative of the highest reliably determined neutron star masses. For the SLy EOS, we can obtain solutions with a comparable compactness of 0.25, while for a family of polytropic equations of state, we obtain solutions with compactness up to 0.21, the largest compactness that is stable in this family. These compactness values are significantly higher than any previously published results.

Real-time measurement of soil stiffness during static compaction.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-01-01

Is continuous sensing of soil properties during static pad foot roller compaction achievable? A new pad-based, rollerintegrated system for real-time measurement of the elastic modulus of fine- and mixed-grain soils is the goal of Development of So...

Characterisation of antimicrobial usage in cats and dogs attending UK primary care companion animal veterinary practices.

PubMed

Buckland, E L; O'Neill, D; Summers, J; Mateus, A; Church, D; Redmond, L; Brodbelt, D

2016-11-12

There is scant evidence describing antimicrobial (AM) usage in companion animal primary care veterinary practices in the UK. The use of AMs in dogs and cats was quantified using data extracted from 374 veterinary practices participating in VetCompass. The frequency and quantity of systemic antibiotic usage was described.Overall, 25 per cent of 963,463 dogs and 21 per cent of 594,812 cats seen at veterinary practices received at least one AM over a two-year period (2012-2014) and 42 per cent of these animals were given repeated AMs. The main agents used were aminopenicillin types and cephalosporins. Of the AM events, 60 per cent in dogs and 81 per cent in cats were AMs classified as critically important (CIAs) to human health by the World Health Organisation. CIAs of highest importance (fluoroquinolones, macrolides, third-generation cephalosporins) accounted for just over 6 per cent and 34 per cent of AMs in dogs and cats, respectively. The total quantity of AMs used within the study population was estimated to be 1473 kg for dogs and 58 kg for cats.This study has identified a high frequency of AM usage in companion animal practice and for certain agents classified as of critical importance in human medicine. The study highlights the usefulness of veterinary practice electronic health records for studying AM usage. British Veterinary Association.

CSI feedback-based CS for underwater acoustic adaptive modulation OFDM system with channel prediction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuai, Xiao-yan; Sun, Hai-xin; Qi, Jie; Cheng, En; Xu, Xiao-ka; Guo, Yu-hui; Chen, You-gan

2014-06-01

In this paper, we investigate the performance of adaptive modulation (AM) orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) system in underwater acoustic (UWA) communications. The aim is to solve the problem of large feedback overhead for channel state information (CSI) in every subcarrier. A novel CSI feedback scheme is proposed based on the theory of compressed sensing (CS). We propose a feedback from the receiver that only feedback the sparse channel parameters. Additionally, prediction of the channel state is proposed every several symbols to realize the AM in practice. We describe a linear channel prediction algorithm which is used in adaptive transmission. This system has been tested in the real underwater acoustic channel. The linear channel prediction makes the AM transmission techniques more feasible for acoustic channel communications. The simulation and experiment show that significant improvements can be obtained both in bit error rate (BER) and throughput in the AM scheme compared with the fixed Quadrature Phase Shift Keying (QPSK) modulation scheme. Moreover, the performance with standard CS outperforms the Discrete Cosine Transform (DCT) method.

New methods for interpretation of magnetic vector and gradient tensor data II: application to the Mount Leyshon anomaly, Queensland, Australia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Clark, David A.

2013-04-01

Acquisition of magnetic gradient tensor data is anticipated to become routine in the near future. In the meantime, modern ultrahigh resolution conventional magnetic data can be used, with certain important caveats, to calculate magnetic vector components and gradient tensor elements from total magnetic intensity (TMI) or TMI gradient surveys. An accompanying paper presented new methods for inverting gradient tensor data to obtain source parameters for several elementary, but useful, models. These include point dipole (sphere), vertical line of dipoles (narrow vertical pipe), line of dipoles (horizontal cylinder), thin dipping sheet, and contact models. A key simplification is the use of eigenvalues and associated eigenvectors of the tensor. The normalised source strength (NSS), calculated from the eigenvalues, is a particularly useful rotational invariant that peaks directly over 3D compact sources, 2D compact sources, thin sheets, and contacts, independent of magnetisation direction. Source locations can be inverted directly from the NSS and its vector gradient. Some of these new methods have been applied to analysis of the magnetic signature of the Early Permian Mount Leyshon gold-mineralised system, Queensland. The Mount Leyshon magnetic anomaly is a prominent TMI low that is produced by rock units with strong reversed remanence acquired during the Late Palaeozoic Reverse Superchron. The inferred magnetic moment for the source zone of the Mount Leyshon magnetic anomaly is ~1010Am2. Its direction is consistent with petrophysical measurements. Given estimated magnetisation from samples and geological information, this suggests a volume of ~1.5km×1.5km×2km (vertical). The inferred depth of the centre of magnetisation is ~900m below surface, suggesting that the depth extent of the magnetic zone is ~1800m. Some of the deeper, undrilled portion of the magnetic zone could be a mafic intrusion similar to the nearby coeval Fenian Diorite, representing part of the parent magma chamber beneath the Mount Leyshon Intrusive Complex.

The OmegaWhite Survey for Short-period Variable Stars. V. Discovery of an Ultracompact Hot Subdwarf Binary with a Compact Companion in a 44-minute Orbit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kupfer, T.; Ramsay, G.; van Roestel, J.; Brooks, J.; MacFarlane, S. A.; Toma, R.; Groot, P. J.; Woudt, P. A.; Bildsten, L.; Marsh, T. R.; Green, M. J.; Breedt, E.; Kilkenny, D.; Freudenthal, J.; Geier, S.; Heber, U.; Bagnulo, S.; Blagorodnova, N.; Buckley, D. A. H.; Dhillon, V. S.; Kulkarni, S. R.; Lunnan, R.; Prince, T. A.

2017-12-01

We report the discovery of the ultracompact hot subdwarf (sdOB) binary OW J074106.0-294811.0 with an orbital period of {P}{orb}=44.66279+/- 1.16× {10}-4 minutes, making it the most compact hot subdwarf binary known. Spectroscopic observations using the VLT, Gemini and Keck telescopes revealed a He-sdOB primary with an intermediate helium abundance, {T}{eff} = 39 400+/- 500 K and {log}g = 5.74 ± 0.09. High signal-to-noise ratio light curves show strong ellipsoidal modulation resulting in a derived sdOB mass {M}{sdOB}=0.23+/- 0.12 {M}⊙ with a WD companion ({M}{WD}=0.72+/- 0.17 {M}⊙ ). The mass ratio was found to be q={M}{sdOB}/{M}{WD}=0.32+/- 0.10. The derived mass for the He-sdOB is inconsistent with the canonical mass for hot subdwarfs of ≈ 0.47 {M}⊙ . To put constraints on the structure and evolutionary history of the sdOB star we compared the derived {T}{eff}, {log}g, and sdOB mass to evolutionary tracks of helium stars and helium white dwarfs calculated with Modules for Experiments in Stellar Astrophysics (MESA). We find that the best-fitting model is a helium white dwarf with a mass of 0.320 {M}⊙ , which left the common envelope ≈ 1.1 {Myr} ago, which is consistent with the observations. As a helium white dwarf with a massive white dwarf companion, the object will reach contact in 17.6 Myr at an orbital period of 5 minutes. Depending on the spin-orbit synchronization timescale the object will either merge to form an R CrB star or end up as a stably accreting AM CVn-type system with a helium white dwarf donor.

Therapeutic modulation of cannabinoid lipid signaling: metabolic profiling of a novel antinociceptive cannabinoid-2 receptor agonist

PubMed Central

Wood, JodiAnne T.; Smith, Dustin M.; Janero, David R.; Zvonok, Alexander M.; Makriyannis, Alexandros

2012-01-01

Aims AM-1241, a novel, racemic cannabinoid-2 receptor (CB2) ligand, is the primary experimental agonist used to characterize the role of CB2-mediated lipid signaling in health and disease, including substance abuse disorders. In vivo pharmacological effects have been used as indirect proxies for AM-1241 biotransformation processes that could modulate activity. We report the initial pre-clinical characterization of AM-1241 biotransformation and in vivo distribution. Main methods AM-1241 metabolism was characterized in a variety of predictive in vitro systems (Caco-2 cells, mouse, rat and human microsomes) and in the mouse in vivo. Liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry techniques were used to quantify AM-1241 tissue distribution and metabolic conversion. Key findings AM-1241 bound extensively to plasma protein/albumin. A pharmacological AM-1241 dose (25 mg/kg, i.v.) was administered to mice for direct determination of its plasma half-life (37 min), following which AM-1241 was quantified in brain, spleen, liver, and kidney. After p.o. administration, AM-1241 was detected in plasma, spleen, and kidney; its oral bioavailability was ~21%. From Caco-2 permeability studies and microsomal-based hepatic clearance estimates, in vivo AM-1241 absorption was moderate. Hepatic microsomal metabolism of AM-1241 in vitro generated hydroxylation and demethylation metabolites. Species-dependent differences were discovered in AM-1241’s predicted hepatic clearance. Our data demonstrate that AM-1241 has the following characteristics: a) short plasma half-life; b) limited oral bioavailability; c) extensive plasma/albumin binding; d) metabolic substrate for hepatic hydroxylation and demethylation; e) moderate hepatic clearance. Significance These results should help inform the design, optimization, and pre-clinical profiling of CB2 ligands as pharmacological tools and medicines. PMID:22749867

Formation of the Thiol Conjugates and Active Metabolite of Clopidogrel by Human Liver Microsomes

PubMed Central

Lau, Wei C.; Hollenberg, Paul F.

2012-01-01

We reported previously the formation of a glutathionyl conjugate of the active metabolite (AM) of clopidogrel and the covalent modification of a cysteinyl residue of human cytochrome P450 2B6 in a reconstituted system (Mol Pharmacol 80:839–847, 2011). In this work, we extended our studies of the metabolism of clopidogrel to human liver microsomes in the presence of four reductants, namely, GSH, l-Cys, N-acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC), and ascorbic acid. Our results demonstrated that formation of the AM was greatly affected by the reductant used and the relative amounts of the AM formed were increased in the following order: NAC (17%) < l-Cys (53%) < ascorbic acid (61%) < GSH (100%). AM-thiol conjugates were observed in the presence of NAC, l-Cys, and GSH. In the case of GSH, the formation of both the AM and the glutathionyl conjugate was dependent on the GSH concentrations, with similar Km values of ∼0.5 mM, which indicates that formation of the thiol conjugates constitutes an integral part of the bioactivation processes for clopidogrel. It was observed that the AM was slowly converted to the thiol conjugate, with a half-life of ∼10 h. Addition of dithiothreitol to the reaction mixture reversed the conversion, which resulted in a decrease in AM-thiol conjugate levels and a concomitant increase in AM levels, whereas addition of NAC led to the formation of AM-NAC and a concomitant decrease in AM-GSH levels. These results not only confirm that the AM is formed through oxidative opening of the thiolactone ring but also suggest the existence of an equilibrium between the AM, the thiol conjugates, and the reductants. These factors may affect the effective concentrations of the AM in vivo. PMID:22584220

Wearable physiological sensors and real-time algorithms for detection of acute mountain sickness.

PubMed

Muza, Stephen R

2018-03-01

This is a minireview of potential wearable physiological sensors and algorithms (process and equations) for detection of acute mountain sickness (AMS). Given the emerging status of this effort, the focus of the review is on the current clinical assessment of AMS, known risk factors (environmental, demographic, and physiological), and current understanding of AMS pathophysiology. Studies that have examined a range of physiological variables to develop AMS prediction and/or detection algorithms are reviewed to provide insight and potential technological roadmaps for future development of real-time physiological sensors and algorithms to detect AMS. Given the lack of signs and nonspecific symptoms associated with AMS, development of wearable physiological sensors and embedded algorithms to predict in the near term or detect established AMS will be challenging. Prior work using [Formula: see text], HR, or HRv has not provided the sensitivity and specificity for useful application to predict or detect AMS. Rather than using spot checks as most prior studies have, wearable systems that continuously measure SpO 2 and HR are commercially available. Employing other statistical modeling approaches such as general linear and logistic mixed models or time series analysis to these continuously measured variables is the most promising approach for developing algorithms that are sensitive and specific for physiological prediction or detection of AMS.

Toward a green campus : a transportation strategy for Texas A&M University.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-03-01

This research study produces a recommended sustainable transportation implementation plan for Texas : A&M University (TAMU) to enhance the environmental performance of its campus transportation system. : To achieve the goal, this study followed a his...

PREFACE: 2nd International Symposium on the Modern Physics of Compact Stars and Relativistic Gravity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Edvard Chubaryan, Professor; Aram Saharian, Professor; Armen Sedrakian, Professor

2014-03-01

The international conference ''The Modern Physics of Compact Stars and Relativistic Gravity'' took place in Yerevan, Armenia, from 18-21 September 2013. This was the second in a series of conferences which aim to bring together people working in astrophysics of compact stars, physics of dense matter, gravitation and cosmology, observations of pulsars and binary neutron stars and related fields. The conference was held on the occasion of 100th birthday of the founder of the Theoretical Physics Chair at the Department of Physics of Yerevan State University and prominent Armenian scientist Academician Gurgen S Sahakyan. The field of compact stars has seen extraordinary development since the discovery of pulsars in 1967. Even before this discovery, pioneering work of a number of theoretical groups had laid the foundation for this development. A pioneer of this effort was Professor G S Sahakyan who, together with Professor Victor Ambartsumyan and a group of young scientists, started in the early sixties their fundamental work on the properties of superdense matter and on the relativistic structure of compact stellar objects. This conference explored the vast diversity of the manifestations of compact stars, including the modern aspects of the equation of state of superdense matter, its magnetic and thermal properties, rotational dynamics, superfluidity and superconductivity, phase transition from hadronic to quark matter, etc. The articles on these subjects collected in this volume are evidence of liveliness of the field and of the continuous feedback between theory and the experiment. A part of this volume is devoted to the cosmology and the theories of gravity — the subfields of astrophysics that are of fundamental importance to our understanding of the universe. The reader will find here articles touching on the most diverse aspects of these fields such as modern problems in Einstein's classical theory of gravity and its alternatives, string theory motivated cosmological models, theories of cosmic microwave background, quantum field theory in curved background, Casimir effect, etc. Thus, it is fair to say that the present volume covers a large number of actively pursued subjects of modern relativistic astrophysics. We would like to thank all those individuals and organizations that helped us in organizing a successful conference. These include the members of the international advisory committee as well as the local organizing committee (whose names are listed separately above) and the sponsors of the conference — the Volkswagen Stiftung (Hannover, Germany), the HIC for FAIR Institute (Frankfurt am Main, Germany) and the State Committee for Sciences of Armenia. Edvard Chubaryan, Aram Saharian and Armen Sedrakian Yerevan / Frankfurt-Main, 1 February, 2014 Conference photograph A list of participants is available in the PDF

On-demand stereoscopic 3D displays for avionic and military applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sarma, Kalluri; Lu, Kanghua; Larson, Brent; Schmidt, John; Cupero, Frank

2010-04-01

High speed AM LCD flat panels are evaluated for use in Field Sequential Stereoscopic (FSS) 3D displays for military and avionic applications. A 120 Hz AM LCD is used in field-sequential mode for constructing eyewear-based as well as autostereoscopic 3D display demonstrators for test and evaluation. The COTS eyewear-based system uses shutter glasses to control left-eye/right-eye images. The autostereoscopic system uses a custom backlight to generate illuminating pupils for left and right eyes. It is driven in synchronization with the images on the LCD. Both displays provide 3D effect in full-color and full-resolution in the AM LCD flat panel. We have realized luminance greater than 200 fL in 3D mode with the autostereoscopic system for sunlight readability. The characterization results and performance attributes of both systems are described.

AO corrected satellite imaging from Mount Stromlo

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bennet, F.; Rigaut, F.; Price, I.; Herrald, N.; Ritchie, I.; Smith, C.

2016-07-01

The Research School of Astronomy and Astrophysics have been developing adaptive optics systems for space situational awareness. As part of this program we have developed satellite imaging using compact adaptive optics systems for small (1-2 m) telescopes such as those operated by Electro Optic Systems (EOS) from the Mount Stromlo Observatory. We have focused on making compact, simple, and high performance AO systems using modern high stroke high speed deformable mirrors and EMCCD cameras. We are able to track satellites down to magnitude 10 with a Strehl in excess of 20% in median seeing.

A Practical and Portable Solids-State Electronic Terahertz Imaging System

PubMed Central

Smart, Ken; Du, Jia; Li, Li; Wang, David; Leslie, Keith; Ji, Fan; Li, Xiang Dong; Zeng, Da Zhang

2016-01-01

A practical compact solid-state terahertz imaging system is presented. Various beam guiding architectures were explored and hardware performance assessed to improve its compactness, robustness, multi-functionality and simplicity of operation. The system performance in terms of image resolution, signal-to-noise ratio, the electronic signal modulation versus optical chopper, is evaluated and discussed. The system can be conveniently switched between transmission and reflection mode according to the application. A range of imaging application scenarios was explored and images of high visual quality were obtained in both transmission and reflection mode. PMID:27110791

Development of a compact, fiber-coupled, six degree-of-freedom measurement system for precision linear stage metrology

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

Yu, Xiangzhi, E-mail: xiangzhi.yu@rochester.edu; Gillmer, Steven R.; Woody, Shane C.

2016-06-15

A compact, fiber-coupled, six degree-of-freedom measurement system which enables fast, accurate calibration, and error mapping of precision linear stages is presented. The novel design has the advantages of simplicity, compactness, and relatively low cost. This proposed sensor can simultaneously measure displacement, two straightness errors, and changes in pitch, yaw, and roll using a single optical beam traveling between the measurement system and a small target. The optical configuration of the system and the working principle for all degrees-of-freedom are presented along with the influence and compensation of crosstalk motions in roll and straightness measurements. Several comparison experiments are conducted tomore » investigate the feasibility and performance of the proposed system in each degree-of-freedom independently. Comparison experiments to a commercial interferometer demonstrate error standard deviations of 0.33 μm in straightness, 0.14 μrad in pitch, 0.44 μradin yaw, and 45.8 μrad in roll.« less

Parameter Estimation for Compact Binaries with Ground-Based Gravitational-Wave Observations Using the LALInference

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Veitch, J.; Raymond, V.; Farr, B.; Farr, W.; Graff, P.; Vitale, S.; Aylott, B.; Blackburn, K.; Christensen, N.; Coughlin, M.

2015-01-01

The Advanced LIGO and Advanced Virgo gravitational wave (GW) detectors will begin operation in the coming years, with compact binary coalescence events a likely source for the first detections. The gravitational waveforms emitted directly encode information about the sources, including the masses and spins of the compact objects. Recovering the physical parameters of the sources from the GW observations is a key analysis task. This work describes the LALInference software library for Bayesian parameter estimation of compact binary signals, which builds on several previous methods to provide a well-tested toolkit which has already been used for several studies. We show that our implementation is able to correctly recover the parameters of compact binary signals from simulated data from the advanced GW detectors. We demonstrate this with a detailed comparison on three compact binary systems: a binary neutron star (BNS), a neutron star - black hole binary (NSBH) and a binary black hole (BBH), where we show a cross-comparison of results obtained using three independent sampling algorithms. These systems were analysed with non-spinning, aligned spin and generic spin configurations respectively, showing that consistent results can be obtained even with the full 15-dimensional parameter space of the generic spin configurations. We also demonstrate statistically that the Bayesian credible intervals we recover correspond to frequentist confidence intervals under correct prior assumptions by analysing a set of 100 signals drawn from the prior. We discuss the computational cost of these algorithms, and describe the general and problem-specific sampling techniques we have used to improve the efficiency of sampling the compact binary coalescence (CBC) parameter space.

Symbiont dynamics during ecosystem succession: co-occurring plant and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal communities.

PubMed

García de León, David; Moora, Mari; Öpik, Maarja; Neuenkamp, Lena; Gerz, Maret; Jairus, Teele; Vasar, Martti; Bueno, C Guillermo; Davison, John; Zobel, Martin

2016-07-01

Although mycorrhizas are expected to play a key role in community assembly during ecological succession, little is known about the dynamics of the symbiotic partners in natural systems. For instance, it is unclear how efficiently plants and arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi disperse into early successional ecosystems, and which, if either, symbiotic partner drives successional dynamics. This study describes the dynamics of plant and AM fungal communities, assesses correlation in the composition of plant and AM fungal communities and compares dispersal limitation of plants and AM fungi during succession. We studied gravel pits 20 and 50 years post abandonment and undisturbed grasslands in Western Estonia. The composition of plant and AM fungal communities was strongly correlated, and the strength of the correlation remained unchanged as succession progressed, indicating a stable dependence among mycorrhizal plants and AM fungi. A relatively high proportion of the AM fungal taxon pool was present in early successional sites, in comparison with the respective fraction of plants. These results suggest that AM fungi arrived faster than plants and may thus drive vegetation dynamics along secondary vegetation succession. © FEMS 2016. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

AM06: the Associative Memory chip for the Fast TracKer in the upgraded ATLAS detector

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Annovi, A.; Beretta, M. M.; Calderini, G.; Crescioli, F.; Frontini, L.; Liberali, V.; Shojaii, S. R.; Stabile, A.

2017-04-01

This paper describes the AM06 chip, which is a highly parallel processor for pattern recognition in the ATLAS high energy physics experiment. The AM06 contains memory banks that store data organized in 18 bit words; a group of 8 words is called "pattern". Each AM06 chip can store up to 131 072 patterns. The AM06 is a large chip, designed in 65 nm CMOS, and it combines full-custom memory arrays, standard logic cells and serializer/deserializer IP blocks at 2 Gbit/s for input/output communication. The overall silicon area is 168 mm2 and the chip contains about 421 million transistors. The AM06 receives the detector data for each event accepted by Level-1 trigger, up to 100 kHz, and it performs a track reconstruction based on hit information from channels of the ATLAS silicon detectors. Thanks to the design of a new associative memory cell and to the layout optimization, the AM06 consumption is only about 1 fJ/bit per comparison. The AM06 has been fabricated and successfully tested with a dedicated test system.

A compact nanopower low output impedance CMOS operational amplifier for wireless intraocular pressure recordings.

PubMed

Dresher, Russell P; Irazoqui, Pedro P

2007-01-01

Wireless sensing has shown potential benefits for the continuous-time measurement of physiological data. One such application is the recording of intraocular pressure (IOP) for patients with glaucoma. Ultra-low-power circuits facilitate the use of inductively-coupled power for implantable wireless systems. Compact circuit size is also desirable for implantable systems. As a first step towards the realization of such circuits, we have designed a compact, ultra-low-power operational amplifier which can be used to record IOP. This paper presents the measured results of a CMOS operational amplifier that can be incorporated with a wireless IOP monitoring system or other low-power application. It has a power consumption of 736 nW, chip area of 0.023 mm2, and output impedance of 69 Omega to drive low-impedance loads.

Hydrodynamic simulations of stellar wind disruption by a compact X-ray source

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Blondin, John M.; Kallman, Timothy R.; Fryxell, Bruce A.; Taam, Ronald E.

1990-01-01

This paper presents two-dimensional numerical simulations of the gas flow in the orbital plane of a massive X-ray binary system, in which the mass accretion is fueled by a radiation-driven wind from an early-type companion star. These simulations are used to examine the role of the compact object (either a neutron star or a black hole) in disturbing the radiatively accelerating wind of the OB companion, with an emphasis on understanding the origin of the observed soft X-ray photoelectric absorption seen at late orbital phases in these systems. On the basis of these simulations, it is suggested that the phase-dependent photoelectric absorption seen in several of these systems can be explained by dense filaments of compressend gas formed in the nonsteady accreation bow shock and wake of the compact object.

Magnetic fabrics and fluid flow directions in hydrothermal systems. A case study in the Chaillac Ba-F-Fe deposits (France)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sizaret, Stanislas; Chen, Yan; Chauvet, Alain; Marcoux, Eric; Touray, Jean Claude

2003-02-01

This study presents a possible use of anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMS) to describe the mineralizing process in hydrothermal systems. Ba-F-Fe-rich deposits within the Chaillac Basin are on the southern border of the Paris Basin. In these deposits hydrothermal textures and tectonic structures have been described in veins, sinters, and sandstone cemented by hydrothermal goethite. 278 oriented cores from 24 sites have been collected in these formations. In addition, a lateritic duricrust superimposed on the hydrothermal formation has been sampled. Rock magnetic investigations show that the principal magnetic carrier is goethite for the hydrothermal mineralization and for the laterite level. The AMS measurements show distinguishable behaviors in the different mineralogical and geological contexts. The K1 magnetic lineation (maximum axis) is strongly inclined for the vertical veins. For the horizontally mineralized sinters, the magnetic lineation is almost horizontal with an azimuth similar to the sedimentary flow direction. The AMS of goethite-rich sandstone close to the veins shows strongly inclined K1 as they are probably influenced by the vertical veins; however, when the distance from the vein is larger than 1 m, the AMS presents rather horizontal K1 directions, parallel to the sedimentary flow. The laterite has a foliation dominance of AMS with vertically well-grouped K3 axes and scattered K1 and K2 axes. Field structural observations suggest that the ore deposit is mainly controlled by EW extension tectonics associated with NS trending normal faults. Combining the AMS results on the deposit with vein textures and field data a model is proposed in which AMS results are interpreted in terms of hydrothermal fluid flow. This work opens a new investigation field to constrain hydrodynamic models using the AMS method. Textural study combined with efficient AMS fabric measurements should be used for systematic investigation to trace flow direction in fissures and in sand porosity.

A compact free space quantum key distribution system capable of daylight operation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Benton, David M.; Gorman, Phillip M.; Tapster, Paul R.; Taylor, David M.

2010-06-01

A free space quantum key distribution system has been demonstrated. Consideration has been given to factors such as field of view and spectral width, to cut down the deleterious effect from background light levels. Suitable optical sources such as lasers and RCLEDs have been investigated as well as optimal wavelength choices, always with a view to building a compact and robust system. The implementation of background reduction measures resulted in a system capable of operating in daylight conditions. An autonomous system was left running and generating shared key material continuously for over 7 days.

Structural Stability of Mathematical Models of National Economy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ashimov, Abdykappar A.; Sultanov, Bahyt T.; Borovskiy, Yuriy V.; Adilov, Zheksenbek M.; Ashimov, Askar A.

2011-12-01

In the paper we test robustness of particular dynamic systems in a compact regions of a plane and a weak structural stability of one dynamic system of high order in a compact region of its phase space. The test was carried out based on the fundamental theory of dynamical systems on a plane and based on the conditions for weak structural stability of high order dynamic systems. A numerical algorithm for testing the weak structural stability of high order dynamic systems has been proposed. Based on this algorithm we assess the weak structural stability of one computable general equilibrium model.

Booster Test for Space Launch System Rocket

NASA Image and Video Library

2016-06-26

The test area where the second and final qualification motor (QM-2) test for the Space Launch System’s booster is seen through the window of a camera bunker, Sunday, June 26, 2016, at Orbital ATK Propulsion Systems test facilities in Promontory, Utah. The test is scheduled for Tuesday, June 28 at 10:05 a.m. EDT (8:05 a.m. MDT). Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

The PX-AMS system and its applications at CIAE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Ming; Jiang, Shan; Jiang, Songsheng; Wu, ShaoYong; Guo, Gang

2004-08-01

The projectile X-ray detection method (PXD) has been set up in the China Institute of Atomic Energy AMS system. Using this method, the half-life of 79Se and 75Se have been measured, the intensity of 64Cu radioactive nuclear beams have been identified, and the upper limit of transition probability of the first excited state of 64Cu was obtained.

The Next Generation in Subsidence and Aquifer-System Compaction Modeling within the MODFLOW Software Family: A New Package for MODFLOW-2005 and MODFLOW-OWHM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boyce, S. E.; Leake, S. A.; Hanson, R. T.; Galloway, D. L.

2015-12-01

The Subsidence and Aquifer-System Compaction Packages, SUB and SUB-WT, for MODFLOW are two currently supported subsidence packages within the MODFLOW family of software. The SUB package allows the calculation of instantaneous and delayed releases of water from distributed interbeds (relatively more compressible fine-grained sediments) within a saturated aquifer system or discrete confining beds. The SUB-WT package does not include delayed releases, but does perform a more rigorous calculation of vertical stresses that can vary the effective stress that causes compaction. This calculation of instantaneous compaction can include the effect of water-table fluctuations for unconfined aquifers on effective stress, and can optionally adjust the elastic and inelastic storage properties based on the changes in effective stress. The next generation of subsidence modeling in MODFLOW is under development, and will merge and enhance the capabilities of the SUB and SUB-WT Packages for MODFLOW-2005 and MODFLOW-OWHM. This new version will also provide some additional features such as stress dependent vertical hydraulic conductivity of interbeds, time-varying geostatic loads, and additional attributes related to aquifer-system compaction and subsidence that will broaden the class of problems that can be simulated. The new version will include a redesigned source code, a new user friendly input file structure, more output options, and new subsidence solution options. This presentation will discuss progress in developing the new package and the new features being implemented and their potential applications. By Stanley Leake, Scott E. Boyce, Randall T. Hanson, and Devin Galloway

Characterization of Impact Initiation of Aluminum-Based Powder Compacts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tucker, Michael; Dixon, Sean; Thadhani, Naresh

2011-06-01

Impact initiation of reactions in quasi-statically pressed powder compacts of Al-Ni, Al-Ta, and Al-W powder compacts is investigated in an effort to characterize the differences in the energy threshold as a function of materials system, volumetric distribution, and environment. The powder compacts were mounted in front of a copper projectile and impacted onto a steel anvil using a 7.62 mm gas gun at velocities up to 500 m/s. The experiments were conducted in ambient environment, as well as under a 50 millitorr vacuum. The IMACON 200 framing camera was used to observe the transient powder compact densification and deformation states, as well as a signature of reaction based on light emission. Evidence of reaction was also confirmed based on post-mortem XRD analysis of the recovered residue. The effective kinetic energy, dissipated in processes leading to reaction initiation was estimated and correlated with reactivity of the various compacts as a function of composition and environment.

Effect of target-fixture geometry on shock-wave compacted copper powders

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Wooyeol; Ahn, Dong-Hyun; Yoon, Jae Ik; Park, Lee Ju; Kim, Hyoung Seop

2018-01-01

In shock compaction with a single gas gun system, a target fixture is used to safely recover a powder compact processed by shock-wave dynamic impact. However, no standard fixture geometry exists, and its effect on the processed compact is not well studied. In this study, two types of fixture are used for the dynamic compaction of hydrogen-reduced copper powders, and the mechanical properties and microstructures are investigated using the Vickers microhardness test and electron backscatter diffraction, respectively. With the assistance of finite element method simulations, we analyze several shock parameters that are experimentally hard to control. The results of the simulations indicate that the target geometry clearly affects the characteristics of incident and reflected shock waves. The hardness distribution and the microstructure of the compacts also show their dependence on the geometry. With the results of the simulations and the experiment, it is concluded that the target geometry affects the shock wave propagation and wave interaction in the specimen.

Attenuation characteristics of fiberoptic plates for digital mammography and other X-ray imaging applications.

PubMed

Vedantham, S; Karellas, A; Suryanarayanan, S

2003-01-01

Spatially coherent fiberoptic plates are important components of some charge-coupled device (CCD)-based x-ray imaging systems. These plates efficiently transmit scintillations from the phosphor, and also filter out x-rays not absorbed by the phosphor, thus protecting the CCD from direct x-ray interaction. The thickness of the fiberoptic plate and the CCD package present a significant challenge in the design of a digital x-ray cassette capable of insertion into the existing film-screen cassette holders of digital mammography systems. This study was performed with an aim to optimize fiberoptic plate thickness. Attenuation measurements were performed on nine fiberoptic plates varying in material composition that exhibit desirable optical characteristics such as good coupling efficiency. Mammographic spectra from a clinical mammographic system and an Americium-241 (Am-241) source (59.54 KeV) were used. The spectra were recorded with a high-resolution cadmium zinc telluride (CZT)-based spectrometer and corrected for dead time and pile-up. The linear attenuation coefficients varied by a factor of 3 in the set of tested fiberoptic plates at both mammographic energies and 59.54 keV. Our results suggest that a 3-mm thick high-absorption plate might provide adequate for shielding at mammographic energies. A thickness of 2-mm is feasible for mammographic applications with further optimization of the fiberoptic plate composition by incorporating non-scintillating, high-atomic number material. This would allow more space for cooling components of the cassette and for a more compact device, which is critical for clinical implementation of the technology.

The Effect of SnCl2/AmF Pretreatment on Short- and Long-Term Bond Strength to Eroded Dentin

PubMed Central

Zumstein, Katrin; Peutzfeldt, Anne; Lussi, Adrian

2018-01-01

This study investigated the effect of SnCl2/AmF pretreatment on short- and long-term bond strength of resin composite to eroded dentin mediated by two self-etch, MDP-containing adhesive systems. 184 dentin specimens were produced from extracted human molars. Half the specimens (n = 92) were artificially eroded, and half were left untreated. For both substrates, half the specimens were pretreated with SnCl2/AmF, and half were left untreated. The specimens were treated with Clearfil SE Bond or Scotchbond Universal prior to application of resin composite. Microtensile bond strength (μTBS) was measured after 24 h or 1 year. Failure mode was detected and EDX was performed. μTBS results were statistically analyzed (α = 0.05). μTBS was significantly influenced by the dentin substrate (eroded < noneroded dentin) and storage time (24 h > 1 year; p < 0.0001) but not by pretreatment with SnCl2/AmF or adhesive system. The predominant failure mode was adhesive failure at the dentin-adhesive interface. The content of Sn was generally below detection limit. Pretreatment with SnCl2/AmF did not influence short- and long-term bond strength to eroded dentin. Bond strength was reduced after storage for one year, was lower to eroded dentin than to noneroded dentin, and was similar for the two adhesive systems.

Lipoamino acid-based micelles as promising delivery vehicles for monomeric amphotericin B.

PubMed

Serafim, Cláudia; Ferreira, Inês; Rijo, Patrícia; Pinheiro, Lídia; Faustino, Célia; Calado, António; Garcia-Rio, Luis

2016-01-30

Lipoamino acid-based micelles have been developed as delivery vehicles for the hydrophobic drug amphotericin B (AmB). The micellar solubilisation of AmB by a gemini lipoamino acid (LAA) derived from cysteine and its equimolar mixtures with the bile salts sodium cholate (NaC) and sodium deoxycholate (NaDC), as well as the aggregation sate of the drug in the micellar systems, was studied under biomimetic conditions (phosphate buffered-saline, pH 7.4) using UV-vis spectroscopy. Pure surfactant systems and equimolar mixtures were characterized by tensiometry and important parameters were determined, such as critical micelle concentration (CMC), surface tension at the CMC (γCMC), maximum surface excess concentration (Γmax), and minimum area occupied per molecule at the water/air interface (Amin). Rheological behaviour from viscosity measurements at different shear rates was also addressed. Solubilisation capacity was quantified in terms of molar solubilisation ratio (χ), micelle-water partition coefficient (KM) and Gibbs energy of solubilisation (ΔGs°). Formulations of AmB in micellar media were compared in terms of drug loading, encapsulation efficiency, aggregation state of AmB and in vitro antifungal activity against Candida albicans. The LAA-containing micellar systems solubilise AmB in its monomeric and less toxic form and exhibit in vitro antifungal activity comparable to that of the commercial formulation Fungizone. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Herald : field operational test evaluation final report

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2000-09-01

The Herald Field Operational Test (FOT) tested AM radio as a low-cost way to broadcast traveler information in rural areas. It tested the feasibility of broadcasting data on the inaudible portion of an existing AM broadcast. Two systems were tested, ...

Herald Field Operation Test Evaluation : Final Report

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2000-09-01

The Herald Field Operational Test (FOT) tested AM radio as a low-cost way to broadcast traveler information in rural areas. It tested the feasibility of broadcasting data on the inaudible portion of an existing AM broadcast. Two systems were tested, ...

Toward a Digital Thread and Data Package for Metals-Additive Manufacturing.

PubMed

Kim, D B; Witherell, P; Lu, Y; Feng, S

2017-01-01

Additive manufacturing (AM) has been envisioned by many as a driving factor of the next industrial revolution. Potential benefits of AM adoption include the production of low-volume, customized, complicated parts/products, supply chain efficiencies, shortened time-to-market, and environmental sustainability. Work remains, however, for AM to reach the status of a full production-ready technology. Whereas the ability to create unique 3D geometries has been generally proven, production challenges remain, including lack of (1) data manageability through information management systems, (2) traceability to promote product producibility, process repeatability, and part-to-part reproducibility, and (3) accountability through mature certification and qualification methodologies. To address these challenges in part, this paper discusses the building of data models to support the development of validation and conformance methodologies in AM. We present an AM information map that leverages informatics to facilitate part producibility, process repeatability, and part-to-part reproducibility in an AM process. We present three separate case studies to demonstrate the importance of establishing baseline data structures and part provenance through an AM digital thread.

Toward a Digital Thread and Data Package for Metals-Additive Manufacturing

PubMed Central

Kim, D. B.; Witherell, P.; Lu, Y.; Feng, S.

2017-01-01

Additive manufacturing (AM) has been envisioned by many as a driving factor of the next industrial revolution. Potential benefits of AM adoption include the production of low-volume, customized, complicated parts/products, supply chain efficiencies, shortened time-to-market, and environmental sustainability. Work remains, however, for AM to reach the status of a full production-ready technology. Whereas the ability to create unique 3D geometries has been generally proven, production challenges remain, including lack of (1) data manageability through information management systems, (2) traceability to promote product producibility, process repeatability, and part-to-part reproducibility, and (3) accountability through mature certification and qualification methodologies. To address these challenges in part, this paper discusses the building of data models to support the development of validation and conformance methodologies in AM. We present an AM information map that leverages informatics to facilitate part producibility, process repeatability, and part-to-part reproducibility in an AM process. We present three separate case studies to demonstrate the importance of establishing baseline data structures and part provenance through an AM digital thread. PMID:28691115

Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungal 14-3-3 Proteins Are Involved in Arbuscule Formation and Responses to Abiotic Stresses During AM Symbiosis

PubMed Central

Sun, Zhongfeng; Song, Jiabin; Xin, Xi’an; Xie, Xianan; Zhao, Bin

2018-01-01

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi are soil-borne fungi belonging to the ancient phylum Glomeromycota and are important symbionts of the arbuscular mycorrhiza, enhancing plant nutrient acquisition and resistance to various abiotic stresses. In contrast to their significant physiological implications, the molecular basis involved is poorly understood, largely due to their obligate biotrophism and complicated genetics. Here, we identify and characterize three genes termed Fm201, Ri14-3-3 and RiBMH2 that encode 14-3-3-like proteins in the AM fungi Funneliformis mosseae and Rhizophagus irregularis, respectively. The transcriptional levels of Fm201, Ri14-3-3 and RiBMH2 are strongly induced in the pre-symbiotic and symbiotic phases, including germinating spores, intraradical hyphae- and arbuscules-enriched roots. To functionally characterize the Fm201, Ri14-3-3 and RiBMH2 genes, we took advantage of a yeast heterologous system owing to the lack of AM fungal transformation systems. Our data suggest that all three genes can restore the lethal Saccharomyces cerevisiae bmh1 bmh2 double mutant on galactose-containing media. Importantly, yeast one-hybrid analysis suggests that the transcription factor RiMsn2 is able to recognize the STRE (CCCCT/AGGGG) element present in the promoter region of Fm201 gene. More importantly, Host-Induced Gene Silencing of both Ri14-3-3 and RiBMH2 in Rhizophagus irregularis impairs the arbuscule formation in AM symbiosis and inhibits the expression of symbiotic PT4 and MST2 genes from plant and fungal partners, respectively. We further subjected the AM fungus-Medicago truncatula association system to drought or salinity stress. Accordingly, the expression profiles in both mycorrhizal roots and extraradical hyphae reveal that these three 14-3-3-like genes are involved in response to drought or salinity stress. Collectively, our results provide new insights into molecular functions of the AM fungal 14-3-3 proteins in abiotic stress responses and arbuscule formation during AM symbiosis. PMID:29556216

Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungal 14-3-3 Proteins Are Involved in Arbuscule Formation and Responses to Abiotic Stresses During AM Symbiosis.

PubMed

Sun, Zhongfeng; Song, Jiabin; Xin, Xi'an; Xie, Xianan; Zhao, Bin

2018-01-01

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi are soil-borne fungi belonging to the ancient phylum Glomeromycota and are important symbionts of the arbuscular mycorrhiza, enhancing plant nutrient acquisition and resistance to various abiotic stresses. In contrast to their significant physiological implications, the molecular basis involved is poorly understood, largely due to their obligate biotrophism and complicated genetics. Here, we identify and characterize three genes termed Fm201 , Ri14-3-3 and RiBMH2 that encode 14-3-3-like proteins in the AM fungi Funneliformis mosseae and Rhizophagus irregularis , respectively. The transcriptional levels of Fm201 , Ri14-3-3 and RiBMH2 are strongly induced in the pre-symbiotic and symbiotic phases, including germinating spores, intraradical hyphae- and arbuscules-enriched roots. To functionally characterize the Fm201 , Ri14-3-3 and RiBMH2 genes, we took advantage of a yeast heterologous system owing to the lack of AM fungal transformation systems. Our data suggest that all three genes can restore the lethal Saccharomyces cerevisiae bmh1 bmh2 double mutant on galactose-containing media. Importantly, yeast one-hybrid analysis suggests that the transcription factor RiMsn2 is able to recognize the STRE (CCCCT/AGGGG) element present in the promoter region of Fm201 gene. More importantly, Host-Induced Gene Silencing of both Ri14-3-3 and RiBMH2 in Rhizophagus irregularis impairs the arbuscule formation in AM symbiosis and inhibits the expression of symbiotic PT4 and MST2 genes from plant and fungal partners, respectively. We further subjected the AM fungus- Medicago truncatula association system to drought or salinity stress. Accordingly, the expression profiles in both mycorrhizal roots and extraradical hyphae reveal that these three 14-3-3-like genes are involved in response to drought or salinity stress. Collectively, our results provide new insights into molecular functions of the AM fungal 14-3-3 proteins in abiotic stress responses and arbuscule formation during AM symbiosis.

Laboratory investigation of the role of desorption kinetics on americium transport associated with bentonite colloids.

PubMed

Dittrich, Timothy Mark; Boukhalfa, Hakim; Ware, Stuart Douglas; Reimus, Paul William

2015-10-01

Understanding the parameters that control colloid-mediated transport of radionuclides is important for the safe disposal of used nuclear fuel. We report an experimental and reactive transport modeling examination of americium transport in a groundwater-bentonite-fracture fill material system. A series of batch sorption and column transport experiments were conducted to determine the role of desorption kinetics from bentonite colloids in the transport of americium through fracture materials. We used fracture fill material from a shear zone in altered granodiorite collected from the Grimsel Test Site (GTS) in Switzerland and colloidal suspensions generated from FEBEX bentonite, a potential repository backfill material. The colloidal suspension (100 mg L(-1)) was prepared in synthetic groundwater that matched the natural water chemistry at GTS and was spiked with 5.5 × 10(-10) M (241)Am. Batch characterizations indicated that 97% of the americium in the stock suspension was adsorbed to the colloids. Breakthrough experiments conducted by injecting the americium colloidal suspension through three identical columns in series, each with mean residence times of 6 h, show that more than 95% of the bentonite colloids were transported through each of the columns, with modeled colloid filtration rates (k(f)) of 0.01-0.02 h(-1). Am recoveries in each column were 55-60%, and Am desorption rate constants from the colloids, determined from 1-D transport modeling, were 0.96, 0.98, and 0.91 h(-1) in the three columns, respectively. The consistency in Am recoveries and desorption rate constants in each column indicates that the Am was not associated with binding sites of widely-varying strengths on the colloids, as one binding site with fast kinetics represented the system accurately for all three sequential columns. Our data suggest that colloid-mediated transport of Am in a bentonite-fracture fill material system is unlikely to result in transport over long distance scales because of the ability of the fracture materials to rapidly strip Am from the bentonite colloids and the apparent lack of a strong binding site that would keep a fraction of the Am strongly-associated with the colloids. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Untangling the biological contributions to soil stability in semiarid shrublands

USGS Publications Warehouse

Chaudhary, V. Bala; Bowker, Matthew A.; O'Dell, Thomas E.; Grace, James B.; Redman, Andrea E.; Rillig, Matthias C.; Johnson, Nancy C.

2009-01-01

Communities of plants, biological soil crusts (BSCs), and arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi are known to influence soil stability individually, but their relative contributions, interactions, and combined effects are not well understood, particularly in arid and semiarid ecosystems. In a landscape-scale field study we quantified plant, BSC, and AM fungal communities at 216 locations along a gradient of soil stability levels in southern Utah, USA. We used multivariate modeling to examine the relative influences of plants, BSCs, and AM fungi on surface and subsurface stability in a semiarid shrubland landscape. Models were found to be congruent with the data and explained 35% of the variation in surface stability and 54% of the variation in subsurface stability. The results support several tentative conclusions. While BSCs, plants, and AM fungi all contribute to surface stability, only plants and AM fungi contribute to subsurface stability. In both surface and subsurface models, the strongest contributions to soil stability are made by biological components of the system. Biological soil crust cover was found to have the strongest direct effect on surface soil stability (0.60; controlling for other factors). Surprisingly, AM fungi appeared to influence surface soil stability (0.37), even though they are not generally considered to exist in the top few millimeters of the soil. In the subsurface model, plant cover appeared to have the strongest direct influence on soil stability (0.42); in both models, results indicate that plant cover influences soil stability both directly (controlling for other factors) and indirectly through influences on other organisms. Soil organic matter was not found to have a direct contribution to surface or subsurface stability in this system. The relative influence of AM fungi on soil stability in these semiarid shrublands was similar to that reported for a mesic tallgrass prairie. Estimates of effects that BSCs, plants, and AM fungi have on soil stability in these models are used to suggest the relative amounts of resources that erosion control practitioners should devote to promoting these communities. This study highlights the need for system approaches in combating erosion, soil degradation, and arid-land desertification.

AFTOMS Technology Issues and Alternatives Report

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-12-01

color , resolu- power requirements, physi- tion; memory , processor speed; cal and weather rugged- IAN interfaces, etc,) f,: these ness. display...Telephone and Telegraph 3 CD-I Compact Disk - Interactive CD-ROM Compact Disk-Read Only Memory CGM Computer Graphics Metafile CNWDI Critical Nuclear...Database Management System RFP Request For Proposal 3 RFS Remote File System ROM Read Only Memory 3 S SA-ALC San Antonio Air Logistics Center 3 SAC

Compact Modbus TCP/IP protocol for data acquisition systems based on limited hardware resources

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bai, Q.; Jin, B.; Wang, D.; Wang, Y.; Liu, X.

2018-04-01

The Modbus TCP/IP has been a standard industry communication protocol and widely utilized for establishing sensor-cloud platforms on the Internet. However, numerous existing data acquisition systems built on traditional single-chip microcontrollers without sufficient resources cannot support it, because the complete Modbus TCP/IP protocol always works dependent on a full operating system which occupies abundant hardware resources. Hence, a compact Modbus TCP/IP protocol is proposed in this work to make it run efficiently and stably even on a resource-limited hardware platform. Firstly, the Modbus TCP/IP protocol stack is analyzed and the refined protocol suite is rebuilt by streamlining the typical TCP/IP suite. Then, specific implementation of every hierarchical layer is respectively presented in detail according to the protocol structure. Besides, the compact protocol is implemented in a traditional microprocessor to validate the feasibility of the scheme. Finally, the performance of the proposed scenario is assessed. The experimental results demonstrate that message packets match the frame format of Modbus TCP/IP protocol and the average bandwidth reaches to 1.15 Mbps. The compact protocol operates stably even based on a traditional microcontroller with only 4-kB RAM and 12-MHz system clock, and no communication congestion or frequent packet loss occurs.

Compact Video Microscope Imaging System Implemented in Colloid Studies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McDowell, Mark

2002-01-01

Long description Photographs showing fiber-optic light source, microscope and charge-coupled discharge (CCD) camera head connected to camera body, CCD camera body feeding data to image acquisition board in PC, and Cartesian robot controlled via PC board. The Compact Microscope Imaging System (CMIS) is a diagnostic tool with intelligent controls for use in space, industrial, medical, and security applications. CMIS can be used in situ with a minimum amount of user intervention. This system can scan, find areas of interest in, focus on, and acquire images automatically. Many multiple-cell experiments require microscopy for in situ observations; this is feasible only with compact microscope systems. CMIS is a miniature machine vision system that combines intelligent image processing with remote control. The software also has a user-friendly interface, which can be used independently of the hardware for further post-experiment analysis. CMIS has been successfully developed in the SML Laboratory at the NASA Glenn Research Center and adapted for use for colloid studies and is available for telescience experiments. The main innovations this year are an improved interface, optimized algorithms, and the ability to control conventional full-sized microscopes in addition to compact microscopes. The CMIS software-hardware interface is being integrated into our SML Analysis package, which will be a robust general-purpose image-processing package that can handle over 100 space and industrial applications.

Targeting and synergistic action of an antifungal peptide in an antibiotic drug-delivery system.

PubMed

Park, Seong-Cheol; Kim, Young-Min; Lee, Jong-Kook; Kim, Nam-Hong; Kim, Eun-Ji; Heo, Hun; Lee, Min-Young; Lee, Jung Ro; Jang, Mi-Kyeong

2017-06-28

Amphotericin B (AmB) has been widely used against fungal infections throughout almost the entire body, including the skin, nails, oral cavity, respiratory tract, and urinary tract. However, the development of AmB-loaded nanoparticles demands a novel technique that reduces its toxicity and other associated problems. Here, we developed a pH-responsive and redox-sensitive polymer-based AmB-delivery carrier system. In particular, this system was functionalized by conjugation with the antifungal peptide histatin 5, which acts both as a targeting ligand and a synergistic antifungal molecule against Candida albicans, a major systemic fungal pathogen of humans. Our results in vitro and in vivo suggest that this drug-delivery system may serve as a novel tool to facilitate the use of antimicrobial peptides as targeting ligands to pathogenic microbes, which would open new avenues of investigation in the field of drug delivery. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Impact of automatic milking systems on dairy cattle producers' reports of milking labour management, milk production and milk quality.

PubMed

Tse, C; Barkema, H W; DeVries, T J; Rushen, J; Pajor, E A

2018-04-04

Automatic milking systems (AMS), or milking robots, are becoming widely accepted as a milking technology that reduces labour and increases milk yield. However, reported amount of labour saved, changes in milk yield, and milk quality when transitioning to AMS vary widely. The purpose of this study was to document the impact of adopting AMS on farms with regards to reported changes in milking labour management, milk production, milk quality, and participation in dairy herd improvement (DHI) programmes. A survey was conducted across Canada over the phone, online, and in-person. In total, 530 AMS farms were contacted between May 2014 and the end of June 2015. A total of 217 AMS producers participated in the General Survey (Part 1), resulting in a 41% response rate, and 69 of the respondents completed the more detailed follow-up questions (Part 2). On average, after adopting AMS, the number of employees (full- and part-time non-family labour combined) decreased from 2.5 to 2.0, whereas time devoted to milking-related activities decreased by 62% (from 5.2 to 2.0 h/day). Median milking frequency was 3.0 milkings/day and robots were occupied on average 77% of the day. Producers went to fetch cows a median of 2 times/day, with a median of 3 fetch cows or 4% of the herd per robot/day. Farms had a median of 2.5 failed or incomplete milkings/robot per day. Producers reported an increase in milk yield, but little effect on milk quality. Mean milk yield on AMS farms was 32.6 kg/cow day. Median bulk tank somatic cell count was 180 000 cells/ml. Median milk fat on AMS farms was 4.0% and median milk protein was 3.3%. At the time of the survey, 67% of producers were current participants of a DHI programme. Half of the producers who were not DHI participants had stopped participation after adopting AMS. Overall, this study characterized impacts of adopting AMS and may be a useful guide for making this transition.

A study of the remarkable galaxy system AM 546-324 (the core of Abell S0546)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Faúndez-Abans, M.; Krabbe, A. C.; de Oliveira-Abans, M.; da Rocha-Poppe, P. C.; Rodrigues, I.; Fernandes-Martin, V. A.; Fernandes, I. F.

2012-07-01

Aims: We report first results of an investigation of the tidally disturbed galaxy system AM 546-324, whose two principal galaxies 2MFGC 04711 and AM 0546-324 (NED02) were previously classified as interacting doubles. This system was selected to study the interaction of ellipticals in a moderately dense environment. We provide spectral characteristics of the system and present an observational study of the interaction effects on the morphology, kinematics, and stellar population of these galaxies. Methods: The study is based on long-slit spectrophotometric data in the range of ~4500-8000 Å obtained with the Gemini Multi-Object Spetrograph at Gemini South (GMOS-S). We have used the stellar population synthesis code STARLIGHT to investigate the star formation history of these galaxies. The Gemini/GMOS-S direct r-G0303 broad band pointing image was used to enhance and study fine morphological structures. The main absorption lines in the spectra were used to determine the radial velocity. Results: Along the whole long-slit signal, the spectra of the Shadowy galaxy (discovered by us), 2MFGC 04711, and AM 0546-324 (NED02) resemble that of an early-type galaxy. We estimated redshifts of z = 0.0696, z = 0.0693 and z = 0.0718, corresponding to heliocentric velocities of 20 141 km s-1, 20 057 km s-1, and 20 754 km s-1 for the Shadowy galaxy, 2MFGC 04711 and AM 0546-324 (NED02), respectively. The central regions of 2MFGC 04711 and AM 0546-324 (NED02) are completely dominated by an old stellar population of 2 × 109 < t ≤ 13 × 109 yr and do not show any spatial variation in the contribution of the stellar-population components. Conclusions: The observed rotation profile distribution of 2MFGC 04711 and AM 0546-324 (NED02) can be adequately interpreted as an ongoing stage of interaction with the Shadowy galaxy as the center of the local gravitational potential-well of the system. The three galaxies are all early-type. The extended and smooth distribution of the material in the Shadowy galaxy is a good laboratory to study direct observational signatures of tidal friction in action. Based on observations made at the Gemini Observatory, under the identification number GS-2010B-Q-7.

Effects of Americium-241 and humic substances on Photobacterium phosphoreum: bioluminescence and diffuse reflectance FTIR spectroscopic studies.

PubMed

Kamnev, Alexander A; Tugarova, Anna V; Selivanova, Maria A; Tarantilis, Petros A; Polissiou, Moschos G; Kudryasheva, Nadezhda S

2013-01-01

The integral bioluminescence (BL) intensity of live Photobacterium phosphoreum cells (strain 1883 IBSO), sampled at the stationary growth stage (20 h), was monitored for further 300 h in the absence (control) and presence of (241)Am (an α-emitting radionuclide of a high specific activity) in the growth medium. The activity concentration of (241)Am was 2 kBq l(-1); [(241)Am]=6.5×10(-11) M. Parallel experiments were also performed with water-soluble humic substances (HS, 2.5 mg l(-1); containing over 70% potassium humate) added to the culture medium as a possible detoxifying agent. The BL spectra of all the bacterial samples were very similar (λ(max)=481±3 nm; FWHM=83±3 nm) showing that (241)Am (also with HS) influenced the bacterial BL system at stages prior to the formation of electronically excited states. The HS added per se virtually did not influence the integral BL intensity. In the presence of (241)Am, BL was initially activated but inhibited after 180 h, while the system (241)Am+HS showed an effective activation of BL up to 300 h which slowly decreased with time. Diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform (DRIFT) spectroscopy, applied to dry cell biomass sampled at the stationary growth phase, was used to control possible metabolic responses of the bacteria to the α-radioactivity stress (observed earlier for other bacteria under other stresses). The DRIFT spectra were all very similar showing a low content of intracellular poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (at the level of a few percent of dry biomass) and no or negligible spectroscopic changes in the presence of (241)Am and/or HS. This assumes the α-radioactivity effect to be transmitted by live cells mainly to the bacterial BL enzyme system, with negligible structural or compositional changes in cellular macrocomponents at the stationary growth phase. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effects of americium-241 and humic substances on Photobacterium phosphoreum: Bioluminescence and diffuse reflectance FTIR spectroscopic studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kamnev, Alexander A.; Tugarova, Anna V.; Selivanova, Maria A.; Tarantilis, Petros A.; Polissiou, Moschos G.; Kudryasheva, Nadezhda S.

The integral bioluminescence (BL) intensity of live Photobacterium phosphoreum cells (strain 1883 IBSO), sampled at the stationary growth stage (20 h), was monitored for further 300 h in the absence (control) and presence of 241Am (an α-emitting radionuclide of a high specific activity) in the growth medium. The activity concentration of 241Am was 2 kBq l-1; [241Am] = 6.5 × 10-11 M. Parallel experiments were also performed with water-soluble humic substances (HS, 2.5 mg l-1; containing over 70% potassium humate) added to the culture medium as a possible detoxifying agent. The BL spectra of all the bacterial samples were very similar (λmax = 481 ± 3 nm; FWHM = 83 ± 3 nm) showing that 241Am (also with HS) influenced the bacterial BL system at stages prior to the formation of electronically excited states. The HS added per se virtually did not influence the integral BL intensity. In the presence of 241Am, BL was initially activated but inhibited after 180 h, while the system 241Am + HS showed an effective activation of BL up to 300 h which slowly decreased with time. Diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform (DRIFT) spectroscopy, applied to dry cell biomass sampled at the stationary growth phase, was used to control possible metabolic responses of the bacteria to the α-radioactivity stress (observed earlier for other bacteria under other stresses). The DRIFT spectra were all very similar showing a low content of intracellular poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (at the level of a few percent of dry biomass) and no or negligible spectroscopic changes in the presence of 241Am and/or HS. This assumes the α-radioactivity effect to be transmitted by live cells mainly to the bacterial BL enzyme system, with negligible structural or compositional changes in cellular macrocomponents at the stationary growth phase.

Cardiac effects of 3-iodothyronamine: a new aminergic system modulating cardiac function.

PubMed

Chiellini, Grazia; Frascarelli, Sabina; Ghelardoni, Sandra; Carnicelli, Vittoria; Tobias, Sandra C; DeBarber, Andrea; Brogioni, Simona; Ronca-Testoni, Simonetta; Cerbai, Elisabetta; Grandy, David K; Scanlan, Thomas S; Zucchi, Riccardo

2007-05-01

3-Iodothyronamine T1AM is a novel endogenous thyroid hormone derivative that activates the G protein-coupled receptor known as trace anime-associated receptor 1 (TAAR1). In the isolated working rat heart and in rat cardiomyocytes, T1AM produced a reversible, dose-dependent negative inotropic effect (e.g., 27+/-5, 51+/-3, and 65+/-2% decrease in cardiac output at 19, 25, and 38 microM concentration, respectively). An independent negative chronotropic effect was also observed. The hemodynamic effects of T1AM were remarkably increased in the presence of the tyrosine kinase inhibitor genistein, whereas they were attenuated in the presence of the tyrosine phosphatase inhibitor vanadate. No effect was produced by inhibitors of protein kinase A, protein kinase C, calcium-calmodulin kinase II, phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase, or MAP kinases. Tissue cAMP levels were unchanged. In rat ventricular tissue, Western blot experiments with antiphosphotyrosine antibodies showed reduced phosphorylation of microsomal and cytosolic proteins after perfusion with synthetic T1AM; reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction experiments revealed the presence of transcripts for at least 5 TAAR subtypes; specific and saturable binding of [125I]T1AM was observed, with a dissociation constant in the low micromolar range (5 microM); and endogenous T1AM was detectable by tandem mass spectrometry. In conclusion, our findings provide evidence for the existence of a novel aminergic system modulating cardiac function.

Characterization of a mine fire using atmospheric monitoring system sensor data.

PubMed

Yuan, L; Thomas, R A; Zhou, L

2017-06-01

Atmospheric monitoring systems (AMS) have been widely used in underground coal mines in the United States for the detection of fire in the belt entry and the monitoring of other ventilation-related parameters such as airflow velocity and methane concentration in specific mine locations. In addition to an AMS being able to detect a mine fire, the AMS data have the potential to provide fire characteristic information such as fire growth - in terms of heat release rate - and exact fire location. Such information is critical in making decisions regarding fire-fighting strategies, underground personnel evacuation and optimal escape routes. In this study, a methodology was developed to calculate the fire heat release rate using AMS sensor data for carbon monoxide concentration, carbon dioxide concentration and airflow velocity based on the theory of heat and species transfer in ventilation airflow. Full-scale mine fire experiments were then conducted in the Pittsburgh Mining Research Division's Safety Research Coal Mine using an AMS with different fire sources. Sensor data collected from the experiments were used to calculate the heat release rates of the fires using this methodology. The calculated heat release rate was compared with the value determined from the mass loss rate of the combustible material using a digital load cell. The experimental results show that the heat release rate of a mine fire can be calculated using AMS sensor data with reasonable accuracy.

Deformation bands, early markers of tectonic activity in front of a fold-and-thrust belt: Example from the Tremp-Graus basin, southern Pyrenees, Spain

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Robert, Romain; Robion, Philippe; Souloumiac, Pauline; David, Christian; Saillet, Elodie

2018-05-01

Strain localization in a porous calcarenite facies of the Aren formation in the Tremp basin was studied. This Maastrichtian syn-tectonic formation exposed in front of the Boixols thrust, in the Central South Pyrenean Zone, hosts bedding perpendicular deformation bands. These bands are organized in two major band sets, striking East-West and N-020 respectively. Both populations formed during early deformation stages linked to the growth of the fold and thrust. A magnetic fabric study (Anisotropy of Magnetic Susceptibility, AMS) was carried out to constrain the shortening direction responsible for the deformation bands development during the upper Cretaceous-Paleocene N-S contraction in the region, which allowed us to define populations of Pure Compaction Bands (PCB) and Shear Enhanced Compaction Bands (SECB) regarding their orientations compared to the shortening direction. Both sets are formed by cataclastic deformation, but more intense in the case of SECBs, which are also thinner than PCBs. The initial pore space is both mechanically reduced and chemically filled by several cementation phases. We propose a geomechanical model based on the regional context of layer parallel shortening, thrusting and strike-slip tectonics considering the burial history of the formation, in order to explain the development of both types of bands at remarkably shallow depths.

On the synthesis and microstructure analysis of high performance MnBi

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Yu-Chun; Sawatzki, Simon; Ener, Semih; Sepehri-Amin, Hossein; Leineweber, Andreas; Gregori, Giuliano; Qu, Fei; Muralidhar, Shreyas; Ohkubo, Tadakatsu; Hono, Kazuhiro; Gutfleisch, Oliver; Kronmüller, Helmut; Schütz, Gisela; Goering, Eberhard

2016-12-01

Highly anisotropic MnBi powder with over 90 wt% low-temperature phase can be prepared using conventional arc-melting and 2 hour-low energy ball milling (BM) followed by magnetic separation. After proper alignment, the purified Mn55Bi45(Mn45Bi55) powder show remarkable magnetic properties: mass remanence of 71(65) Am2/kg and coercivity of 1.23(1.18) T at 300 K. The nominal maximum energy product of 120 kJ/m3 is achieved in the purified 2h-BM Mn55Bi45 powder, close to theoretical value of 140.8 kJ/m3. The Mn55Bi45(Mn45Bi55) bulk magnets show the highest volume remanence of 0.68(0.57) T at 300 K, while they were consolidated at 573(523) K by a pressure of 200 MPa for 5 minutes using hot-compaction method. In addition to the observed grain size, the coercivity of the hot-compacted samples at 300 K was found to be strongly related to the amount of metallic Mn and Bi residue at the grain-boundary. Our study proves that the magnetic properties of the Mn45Bi55 bulk magnets are stable up to 500 K, and the nominal (BH)max values are still above 40 kJ/m3 at 500 K showing the potential ability for high-temperature applications.

CB1 cannabinoid receptor-mediated anandamide signaling mechanisms of the inferior colliculus modulate the haloperidol-induced catalepsy.

PubMed

Medeiros, P; de Freitas, R L; Silva, M O; Coimbra, N C; Melo-Thomas, L

2016-11-19

The inferior colliculus (IC), a midbrain structure that processes acoustic information of aversive nature, is distinguished from other auditory nuclei in the brainstem by its connections with structures of the motor system. Previous evidence relating the IC to motor behavior shows that glutamatergic and GABAergic mechanisms in the IC exert influence on systemic haloperidol-induced catalepsy. There is substantial evidence supporting a role played by the endocannabinoid system as a modulator of the glutamatergic neurotransmission, as well as the dopaminergic activity in the basal nuclei and therefore it may be considered as a potential pharmacological target for the treatment of movement disorders. The present study evaluated if the endocannabinoid system in the IC plays a role in the elaboration of systemic haloperidol-induced catalepsy. Male Wistar rats received intracollicular microinjection of either the endogenous cannabinoid anandamide (AEA) at different concentrations (5, 50 or 100pmol/0.2μl), the CB 1 cannabinoid receptor antagonist AM251 at 50, 100 or 200pmol/0.2μl or vehicle, followed by intraperitoneal (IP) administration of either haloperidol at 0.5 or 1mg/kg or physiological saline. Systemic injection of haloperidol at both doses (0.5 or 1mg/kg, IP) produced a cataleptic state, compared to vehicle/physiological saline-treated group, lasting 30 and 50min after systemic administration of the dopaminergic receptors non-selective antagonist. The midbrain microinjection of AEA at 50pmol/0.2μl increased the latency for stepping down from the horizontal bar after systemic administration of haloperidol. Moreover, the intracollicular administration of AEA at 50pmol/0.2μl was able to increase the duration of catalepsy as compared to AEA at 100pmol/0.2-μl-treated group. Intracollicular pretreatment with AM251 at the intermediate concentration (100pmol/0.2μl) was able to decrease the duration of catalepsy after systemic administration of haloperidol. However, neither the intracollicular microinjection of AM251 at the lowest (50pmol/0.2μl) nor at the highest (200pmol/0.2μl) concentration was able to block the systemic haloperidol-induced catalepsy. Furthermore, the intracollicular administration of AM251 at 100pmol/0.2μl was able to decrease the duration of catalepsy as compared to AM251 at 50pmol/0.2μl- and AM251 at 200pmol/0.2-μl-treated group. The latency for stepping down from the horizontal bar - induced by haloperidol administration - was decreased when microinjection of AEA at 50pmol/0.2μl was preceded with blockade of CB1 receptor with AM251 (100pmol/0.2μl). Our results strengthen the involvement of CB1-signaled endocannabinoid mechanisms of the IC in the neuromodulation of catalepsy induced by systemic administration of the dopaminergic receptors non-selective antagonist haloperidol. Copyright © 2016 IBRO. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A Search for X-ray Emission in Isolated Compact Triplets

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brown, Beth A.; Williams, Barbara

2006-01-01

We describe preliminary results of an exploratory search for diffuse X-ray emission in a sample of the poorest galaxy groups, i.e., isolated compact triplets of galaxies. These systems represent the simplest forms of galaxy clustering while manifesting all the complexities inherent in other groups. We have selected 20 compact triplets for this initial study. The component galaxies are expected to interact with each other and with the group's intergalactic medium, if present, in complex ways that trigger high-energy processes.

Compact accelerator for medical therapy

DOEpatents

Caporaso, George J.; Chen, Yu-Jiuan; Hawkins, Steven A.; Sampayan, Stephen E.; Paul, Arthur C.

2010-05-04

A compact accelerator system having an integrated particle generator-linear accelerator with a compact, small-scale construction capable of producing an energetic (.about.70-250 MeV) proton beam or other nuclei and transporting the beam direction to a medical therapy patient without the need for bending magnets or other hardware often required for remote beam transport. The integrated particle generator-accelerator is actuable as a unitary body on a support structure to enable scanning of a particle beam by direction actuation of the particle generator-accelerator.

From carbon to actinides: A new universal 1MV accelerator mass spectrometer at ANSTO

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wilcken, K. M.; Hotchkis, M.; Levchenko, V.; Fink, D.; Hauser, T.; Kitchen, R.

2015-10-01

A new 1 MV NEC pelletron AMS system at ANSTO is presented. The spectrometer comprises large radius magnets for actinide measurements. A novel feature of the system is fast switching between isotopes both at low and high energy sections allowing measurements of up to 8 isotopes within a single sequence. Technical details and layout of the spectrometer is presented. Performance data for 14C, 10Be, 26Al and actinides demonstrate the system is ready for routine AMS measurements.

Some topics in the magnetohydrodynamics of accreting magnetic compact objects

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Aly, J. J.

1986-01-01

Magnetic compact objects (neutron stars or white dwarfs) are currently thought to be present in many accreting systems that are releasing large amounts of energy. The magnetic field of the compact star may interact strongly with the accretion flow and play an essential role in the physics of these systems. Some magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) problems that are likely to be relevant in building up self-consistent models of the interaction between the accreting plasma and the star's magnetosphere are addressed in this series of lectures. The basic principles of MHD are first introduced and some important MHD mechanisms (Rayleigh-Taylor and Kelvin-Helmholtz instabilities; reconnection) are discussed, with particular reference to their role in allowing the infalling matter to penetrate the magnetosphere and mix with the field. The structure of a force-free magnetosphere and the possibility of quasistatic momentum and energy transfer between regions linked by field-aligned currents are then studied in some detail. Finally, the structure of axisymmetric accretion flows onto magnetic compact objects is considered.

Mapping out the origins of compact stellar systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Romanowsky, Aaron J.; Brodie, Jean P.; SAGES Collaboration

2017-03-01

We present a suite of extragalactic explorations of the origins and nature of globular clusters (GCs) and ultra-compact dwarfs (UCDs), and the connections between them. An example of GC metallicity bimodality is shown to reflect underlying, distinct metal-poor and metal-rich stellar halo populations. Metallicity-matching methods are used to trace the birth sites and epochs of GCs in giant E/S0s, pointing to clumpy disk galaxies at z ~ 3 for the metal-rich GCs, and to a combination of accreted and in-situ formation modes at z ~ 5-6 for the metal-poor GCs. An increasingly diverse zoo of compact stellar systems is being discovered, including objects that bridge the gaps between UCDs and faint fuzzies, and between UCDs and compact ellipticals. Many of these have properties pointing to origins as the stripped nuclei of larger galaxies, and a smoking-gun example is presented of an ω Cen-like star cluster embedded in a tidal stream.

The impact of domestication and crop improvement on arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis in cereals: insights from genetics and genomics.

PubMed

Sawers, Ruairidh J H; Ramírez-Flores, M Rosario; Olalde-Portugal, Víctor; Paszkowski, Uta

2018-04-15

Contents Summary I. Introduction II. Recruitment of plant metabolites and hormones as signals in AM symbiosis III. Phytohormones are regulators of AM symbiosis and targets of plant breeding IV. Variations in host response to AM symbiosis V. Outlook Acknowledgements References SUMMARY: Cereals (rice, maize, wheat, sorghum and the millets) provide over 50% of the world's caloric intake, a value that rises to > 80% in developing countries. Since domestication, cereals have been under artificial selection, largely directed towards higher yield. Throughout this process, cereals have maintained their capacity to interact with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi, beneficial symbionts that associate with the roots of most terrestrial plants. It has been hypothesized that the shift from the wild to cultivation, and above all the last c. 50 years of intensive breeding for high-input farming systems, has reduced the capacity of the major cereal crops to gain full benefit from AM interactions. Recent studies have shed further light on the molecular basis of establishment and functioning of AM symbiosis in cereals, providing insight into where the breeding process might have had an impact. Classic phytohormones, targets of artificial selection during the generation of Green Revolution semi-dwarf varieties, have emerged as important regulators of AM symbiosis. Although there is still much to be learnt about the mechanistic basis of variation in symbiotic outcome, these advances are providing an insight into the role of arbuscular mycorrhiza in agronomic systems. © 2018 The Authors. New Phytologist © 2018 New Phytologist Trust.

Intensity invariance properties of auditory neurons compared to the statistics of relevant natural signals in grasshoppers.

PubMed

Clemens, Jan; Weschke, Gerroth; Vogel, Astrid; Ronacher, Bernhard

2010-04-01

The temporal pattern of amplitude modulations (AM) is often used to recognize acoustic objects. To identify objects reliably, intensity invariant representations have to be formed. We approached this problem within the auditory pathway of grasshoppers. We presented AM patterns modulated at different time scales and intensities. Metric space analysis of neuronal responses allowed us to determine how well, how invariantly, and at which time scales AM frequency is encoded. We find that in some neurons spike-count cues contribute substantially (20-60%) to the decoding of AM frequency at a single intensity. However, such cues are not robust when intensity varies. The general intensity invariance of the system is poor. However, there exists a range of AM frequencies around 83 Hz where intensity invariance of local interneurons is relatively high. In this range, natural communication signals exhibit much variation between species, suggesting an important behavioral role for this frequency band. We hypothesize, just as has been proposed for human speech, that the communication signals might have evolved to match the processing properties of the receivers. This contrasts with optimal coding theory, which postulates that neuronal systems are adapted to the statistics of the relevant signals.

Evaluation of detection and response times of fire sensors using an atmospheric monitoring system

PubMed Central

Rowland, J.H.; Litton, C.D.; Thomas, R.A.

2017-01-01

Atmospheric monitoring systems (AMS) are required when using air from conveyor belt entries to ventilate working sections in U.S. underground coal mines. AMS technology has the potential to increase fire safety mine-wide, but research is needed to determine the detection and response times for fires of a variety of combustible materials. To evaluate the potential of an AMS for fire detection in other areas of a coal mine, a series of full-scale fire experiments were conducted to determine detection and response times from fires of different combustible materials that are found in U.S. underground coal mines, including high- and low-volatility coals, conveyor belts, brattice materials, different types of wood, diesel fuel, and a foam sealant. These experiments were conducted in the Safety Research Coal Mine (SRCM) of the U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) located in Pittsburgh, PA, using a commercially available AMS that is typical of current technology. The results showed that through proper selection of sensors and their locations, a mine-wide AMS can provide sufficient early fire warning times and improve the health and safety of miners. PMID:28529442

Evaluation of detection and response times of fire sensors using an atmospheric monitoring system.

PubMed

Rowland, J H; Litton, C D; Thomas, R A

2016-01-01

Atmospheric monitoring systems (AMS) are required when using air from conveyor belt entries to ventilate working sections in U.S. underground coal mines. AMS technology has the potential to increase fire safety mine-wide, but research is needed to determine the detection and response times for fires of a variety of combustible materials. To evaluate the potential of an AMS for fire detection in other areas of a coal mine, a series of full-scale fire experiments were conducted to determine detection and response times from fires of different combustible materials that are found in U.S. underground coal mines, including high- and low-volatility coals, conveyor belts, brattice materials, different types of wood, diesel fuel, and a foam sealant. These experiments were conducted in the Safety Research Coal Mine (SRCM) of the U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) located in Pittsburgh, PA, using a commercially available AMS that is typical of current technology. The results showed that through proper selection of sensors and their locations, a mine-wide AMS can provide sufficient early fire warning times and improve the health and safety of miners.

Working memory moderates the effect of the integrative process of implicit and explicit autonomous motivation on academic achievement.

PubMed

Gareau, Alexandre; Gaudreau, Patrick

2017-11-01

In previous research, autonomous motivation (AM) has been found to be associated with school achievement, but the relation has been largely heterogeneous across studies. AM has typically been assessed with explicit measures such as self-report questionnaires. Recent self-determination theory (SDT) research has suggested that converging implicit and explicit measures can be taken to characterize the integrative process in SDT. Drawing from dual-process theories, we contended that explicit AM is likely to promote school achievement when it is part of an integrated cognitive system that combines easily accessible mental representations (i.e., implicit AM) and efficient executive functioning. A sample of 272 university students completed a questionnaire and a lexical decision task to assess their explicit and implicit AM, respectively, and they also completed working memory capacity measures. Grades were obtained at the end of the semester to examine the short-term prospective effect of implicit and explicit AM, working memory, and their interaction. Results of moderation analyses have provided support for a synergistic interaction in which the association between explicit AM and academic achievement was positive and significant only for individuals with high level of implicit AM. Moreover, working memory was moderating the synergistic effect of explicit and implicit AM. Explicit AM was positively associated with academic achievement for students with average-to-high levels of working memory capacity, but only if their motivation operated synergistically with high implicit AM. The integrative process thus seems to hold better proprieties for achievement than the sole effect of explicit AM. Implications for SDT are outlined. © 2017 The British Psychological Society.

Smartphone-Enabled Heart Rate Variability and Acute Mountain Sickness.

PubMed

Mellor, Adrian; Bakker-Dyos, Josh; OʼHara, John; Woods, David Richard; Holdsworth, David A; Boos, Christopher J

2018-01-01

The autonomic system and sympathetic activation appears integral in the pathogenesis of acute mountain sickness (AMS) at high altitude (HA), yet a link between heart rate variability (HRV) and AMS has not been convincingly shown. In this study we investigated the utility of the smartphone-derived HRV score to predict and diagnose AMS at HA. Twenty-one healthy adults were investigated at baseline at 1400 m and over 10 days during a trek to 5140 m. HRV was recorded using the ithlete HRV device. Acute mountain sickness occurred in 11 subjects (52.4%) at >2650 m. HRV inversely correlated with AMS Scores (r = -0.26; 95% CI, -0.38 to -0.13: P < 0.001). HRV significantly fell at 3700, 4100, and 5140 m versus low altitude. HRV scores were lower in those with both mild (69.7 ± 14.0) and severe AMS (67.1 ± 13.1) versus those without AMS (77.5 ± 13.1; effect size n = 0.043: P = 0.007). The HRV score was weakly predictive of severe AMS (AUC 0.74; 95% CI, 0.58-0.89: P = 0.006). The change (delta) in the HRV Score (compared with baseline at 1400 m) was a moderate diagnostic marker of severe AMS (AUC 0.80; 95% CI, 0.70-0.90; P = 0.0004). A fall in the HRV score of >5 had a sensitivity of 83% and specificity of 60% to identify severe AMS (likelihood ratio 1.9). Baseline HRV at 1400 m was not predictive of either AMS at higher altitudes. The ithlete HRV score can be used to help in the identification of severe AMS; however, a baseline score is not predictive of future AMS development at HA.

Altered free radical metabolism in acute mountain sickness: implications for dynamic cerebral autoregulation and blood-brain barrier function.

PubMed

Bailey, D M; Evans, K A; James, P E; McEneny, J; Young, I S; Fall, L; Gutowski, M; Kewley, E; McCord, J M; Møller, Kirsten; Ainslie, P N

2009-01-15

We tested the hypothesis that dynamic cerebral autoregulation (CA) and blood-brain barrier (BBB) function would be compromised in acute mountain sickness (AMS) subsequent to a hypoxia-mediated alteration in systemic free radical metabolism. Eighteen male lowlanders were examined in normoxia (21% O(2)) and following 6 h passive exposure to hypoxia (12% O(2)). Blood flow velocity in the middle cerebral artery (MCAv) and mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) were measured for determination of CA following calculation of transfer function analysis and rate of regulation (RoR). Nine subjects developed clinical AMS (AMS+) and were more hypoxaemic relative to subjects without AMS (AMS-). A more marked increase in the venous concentration of the ascorbate radical (A(*-)), lipid hydroperoxides (LOOH) and increased susceptibility of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) to oxidation was observed during hypoxia in AMS+ (P < 0.05 versus AMS-). Despite a general decline in total nitric oxide (NO) in hypoxia (P < 0.05 versus normoxia), the normoxic baseline plasma and red blood cell (RBC) NO metabolite pool was lower in AMS+ with normalization observed during hypoxia (P < 0.05 versus AMS-). CA was selectively impaired in AMS+ as indicated both by an increase in the low-frequency (0.07-0.20 Hz) transfer function gain and decrease in RoR (P < 0.05 versus AMS-). However, there was no evidence for cerebral hyper-perfusion, BBB disruption or neuronal-parenchymal damage as indicated by a lack of change in MCAv, S100beta and neuron-specific enolase. In conclusion, these findings suggest that AMS is associated with altered redox homeostasis and disordered CA independent of barrier disruption.

Bioanalysis works in the IAA AMS facility: Comparison of AMS analytical method with LSC method in human mass balance study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miyaoka, Teiji; Isono, Yoshimi; Setani, Kaoru; Sakai, Kumiko; Yamada, Ichimaro; Sato, Yoshiaki; Gunji, Shinobu; Matsui, Takao

2007-06-01

Institute of Accelerator Analysis Ltd. (IAA) is the first Contract Research Organization in Japan providing Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (AMS) analysis services for carbon dating and bioanalysis works. The 3 MV AMS machines are maintained by validated analysis methods using multiple control compounds. It is confirmed that these AMS systems have reliabilities and sensitivities enough for each objective. The graphitization of samples for bioanalysis is prepared by our own purification lines including the measurement of total carbon content in the sample automatically. In this paper, we present the use of AMS analysis in human mass balance and metabolism profiling studies with IAA 3 MV AMS, comparing results obtained from the same samples with liquid scintillation counting (LSC). Human samples such as plasma, urine and feces were obtained from four healthy volunteers orally administered a 14C-labeled drug Y-700, a novel xanthine oxidase inhibitor, of which radioactivity was about 3 MBq (85 μCi). For AMS measurement, these samples were diluted 100-10,000-fold with pure-water or blank samples. The results indicated that AMS method had a good correlation with LSC method (e.g. plasma: r = 0.998, urine: r = 0.997, feces: r = 0.997), and that the drug recovery in the excreta exceeded 92%. The metabolite profiles of plasma, urine and feces obtained with HPLC-AMS corresponded to radio-HPLC results measured at much higher radioactivity level. These results revealed that AMS analysis at IAA is useful to measure 14C-concentration in bioanalysis studies at very low radioactivity level.

Additive Manufacturing in Finland: Recommendations for a Renewed Innovation Policy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ituarte, Iñigo Flores; Salmi, Mika; Ballardini, Rosa Maria; Tuomi, Jukka; Partanen, Jouni

The objective of this research is to define an optimal innovation policy and funding strategy to improve Additive Manufacturing (AM) capabilities in Finnish companies. To do so, we present an international review of innovation programs in the area of AM. In addition, the study replied upon a survey prepared to evaluate factors for AM implementation. The ultimate goal is to help in the definition of a national policy strategy in the area of AM based on the characteristics of the Finnish industrial ecosystem. The methodology and data collection method involved defining the taxonomy of Finnish AM industry. The target group of the survey was a population of AM experts, and individuals with knowledge on AM and industrial processes. Overall, the survey revealed that research and innovation activities are well positioned in Finland. In order for future innovation policies to further support developments in the field, we estimated that policy strategies need to generate about 6-8 M€/year in national and EU- funding instruments for AM technology transfer, development, and innovation activities. Efforts should be targeted towards strengthening uses of AM in final production. In fact, only 36% of Finnish respondents declared to use AM for final production, while leading countries in AM use it in average more than 50%. Another area in need of development in Finland is the use of AM high performance materials. Moreover, outsourcing of AM services in Finland is 23 percentage point higher in national and 13 percentage point higher in international outsourcing to service bureaus and suppliers. In this regard, future policies and funding strategies should maintain the created momentum. However, there is a need to acquire high-end research and industrial equipment to stimulate AM integration to the existing production systems. This in the end can trigger the creation of new products, processes and intellectual property, enabling innovation and competitive advantage.

Compact cryocooling system for HTS sampler

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suzuki, H.; Maruyama, M.; Hato, T.; Wakana, H.; Tanabe, K.; Konno, T.; Uekusa, K.; Sato, N.; Kawabata, M.

2007-10-01

This paper describes a compact cooling system using a single-stage stirling-type cryocooler for a practical HTS sampler. The system was designed to cool down an HTS sampler module below 50 K, enabling a bandwidth of the chip more than 100 GHz. The system measures 150 mm in width, 140 mm in height and 310 mm in depth, and weighs 5 kg. Semi-rigid coaxial cables made of brass with a silver coated inner conductor were adopted for a signal to be measured and a trigger pulse. The loss for the signal line was less than 1.5 dB at 50 GHz with relatively small thermal inflow. Thermal inflows from low frequency lines, IF signal lines for control/output of the sampler and dc bias lines, were minimized by choosing proper wires. A new sampler module with reduced weight was placed on the cold stage, which was surrounded by double magnetic shields. The module was successfully cooled down to less than 50 K with cooling time of 1 h in the system. We have also succeeded in observing sinusoidal waveforms with the HTS sampler cooled by the compact cooling system.

78 FR 14099 - Center for Scientific Review; Notice of Closed Meetings

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-03-04

... Pathobiology of Cardiovascular and Respiratory Systems. Date: March 26-27, 2013. Time: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m... Special Emphasis Panel; Member Conflict: Respiratory Diseases. Date: March 26-27, 2013. Time: 9:00 a.m. to...

Silica-based, compact and variable-optical-attenuator integrated coherent receiver with stable optoelectronic coupling system.

PubMed

Tsunashima, Satoshi; Nakajima, Fumito; Nasu, Yusuke; Kasahara, Ryoichi; Nakanishi, Yasuhiko; Saida, Takashi; Yamada, Takashi; Sano, Kimikazu; Hashimoto, Toshikazu; Fukuyama, Hiroyuki; Nosaka, Hideaki; Murata, Koichi

2012-11-19

We demonstrate a compact and variable-optical-attenuator (VOA) integrated coherent receiver with a silica-based planar lightwave circuit (PLC). To realize the compact receiver, we integrate a VOA in a single PLC chip with polarization beam splitters and optical 90-degree hybrids, and employ a stable optoelectronic coupling system consisting of micro lens arrays and photodiode (PD) subcarriers with high-speed right-angled signal lines. We integrate a VOA and a coherent receiver in a 27x40x6 mm package, and successfully demodulate a 128-Gbit/s polarization division multiplexed (PDM) quadrature phase shift keying (QPSK) signal with a VOA-assisted wide dynamic range of more than 30 dB.

Precast self-compacting concrete (PSCC) panel with added coir fiber: An overview

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Afif Iman, Muhamad; Mohamad, Noridah; Samad, Abdul Aziz Abdul; Goh, W. I.; Othuman Mydin, M. A.; Afiq Tambichik, Muhamad; Bosro, Mohamad Zulhairi Mohd; Wirdawati, A.; Jamaluddin, N.

2018-04-01

Self-compacting concrete (SCC) is the alternative way to reduce construction time and improve the quality and strength of concrete. The panel system fabricated from SCC contribute to the IBS system that is sustainable and environmental friendly. The precast self-compacting concrete (PSCC) panel with added coir fiber will be overview in this paper. The properties of SCC and coir fiber are studied and reviewed from the previous researches. Finite element analysis is used to support the experimental results by conduction parametric simulation study on PSCC under flexure load. In general, it was found that coir fiber has a significant influence on the flexural load and crack propagation. Higher fiber incorporated in SCC resulted with higher ultimate load of PSCC.

Update on 3-iodothyronamine and its neurological and metabolic actions.

PubMed

Zucchi, Riccardo; Accorroni, Alice; Chiellini, Grazia

2014-01-01

3-iodothyronamine (T1AM) is an endogenous amine, that has been detected in many rodent tissues, and in human blood. It has been hypothesized to derive from thyroid hormone metabolism, but this hypothesis still requires validation. T1AM is not a ligand for nuclear thyroid hormone receptors, but stimulates with nanomolar affinity trace amine-associated receptor 1 (TAAR1), a G protein-coupled membrane receptor. With a lower affinity it interacts with alpha2A adrenergic receptors. Additional targets are represented by apolipoprotein B100, mitochondrial ATP synthase, and membrane monoamine transporters, but the functional relevance of these interactions is still uncertain. Among the effects reported after administration of exogenous T1AM to experimental animals, metabolic and neurological responses deserve special attention, because they were obtained at low dosages, which increased endogenous tissue concentration by about one order of magnitude. Systemic T1AM administration favored fatty acid over glucose catabolism, increased ketogenesis and increased blood glucose. Similar responses were elicited by intracerebral infusion, which inhibited insulin secretion and stimulated glucagon secretion. However, T1AM administration increased ketogenesis and gluconeogenesis also in hepatic cell lines and in perfused liver preparations, providing evidence for a peripheral action, as well. In the central nervous system, T1AM behaved as a neuromodulator, affecting adrenergic and/or histaminergic neurons. Intracerebral T1AM administration favored learning and memory, modulated sleep and feeding, and decreased the pain threshold. In conclusion T1AM should be considered as a component of thyroid hormone signaling and might play a significant physiological and/or pathophysiological role. T1AM analogs have already been synthetized and their therapeutical potential is currently under investigation. 3-iodothyronamine (T1AM) is a biogenic amine whose structure is closely related to that of thyroid hormone (3,5,3'-triiodothyronine, or T3). The differences with T3 are the absence of the carboxylate group and the substitution of iodine with hydrogen in 5 and 3' positions (Figure 1). In this paper we will review the evidence supporting the hypothesis that T1AM is a chemical messenger, namely that it is an endogenous substance able to interact with specific receptors producing significant functional effects. Special emphasis will be placed on neurological and metabolic effects, which are likely to have physiological and pathophysiological importance.

The subjectively perceived quality of postgraduate medical training in integrative medicine within the public healthcare systems of Germany and Switzerland: the example of anthroposophic hospitals

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Integrative medicine (IM) integrates evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) with conventional medicine (CON). Medical schools offer basic CAM electives but in postgraduate medical training (PGMT) little has been done for the integration of CAM. An exception to this is anthroposophic medicine (AM), a western form of CAM based on CON, offering an individualized holistic IM approach. AM hospitals are part of the public healthcare systems in Germany and Switzerland and train AM in PGMT. We performed the first quality evaluation of the subjectively perceived quality of this PGMT. Methods An anonymous full survey of all 214 trainers (TR) and 240 trainees (TE) in all 15 AM hospitals in Germany and Switzerland, using the ETHZ questionnaire for annual national PGMT assessments in Switzerland (CH) and Germany (D), complemented by a module for AM. Data analysis included Cronbach’s alpha to assess internal consistency questionnaire scales, 2-tailed Pearson correlation of specific quality dimensions of PGMT and department size, 2-tailed Wilcoxon Matched-Pair test for dependent variables and 2-tailed Mann–Whitney U-test for independent variables to calculate group differences. The level of significance was set at p < 0.05. Results Return rates were: D: TE 89/215 (41.39%), TR 78/184 (42.39%); CH: TE 19/25 (76%), TR 22/30 (73.33%). Cronbach’s alpha values for TE scales were >0.8 or >0.9, and >0.7 to >0.5 for TR scales. Swiss hospitals surpassed German ones significantly in Global Satisfaction with AM (TR and TE); Clinical Competency training in CON (TE) and AM (TE, TR), Error Management, Culture of Decision Making, Evidence-based Medicine, and Clinical Competency in internal medicine CON and AM (TE). When the comparison was restricted to departments of comparable size, differences remained significant for Clinical Competencies in AM (TE, TR), and Culture of Decision Making (TE). CON received better grades than AM in Global Satisfaction and Clinical Competency. Quality of PGMT depended on department size, working conditions and structural training features. Conclusion The lower quality of PGMT in German hospitals can be attributed to larger departments, more difficult working conditions, and less favorable structural features for PGMT in AM, possibly also in relation to increased financial pressure. PMID:24934998

The subjectively perceived quality of postgraduate medical training in integrative medicine within the public healthcare systems of Germany and Switzerland: the example of anthroposophic hospitals.

PubMed

Heusser, Peter; Eberhard, Sabine; Berger, Bettina; Weinzirl, Johannes; Orlow, Pascale

2014-06-16

Integrative medicine (IM) integrates evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) with conventional medicine (CON). Medical schools offer basic CAM electives but in postgraduate medical training (PGMT) little has been done for the integration of CAM. An exception to this is anthroposophic medicine (AM), a western form of CAM based on CON, offering an individualized holistic IM approach. AM hospitals are part of the public healthcare systems in Germany and Switzerland and train AM in PGMT. We performed the first quality evaluation of the subjectively perceived quality of this PGMT. An anonymous full survey of all 214 trainers (TR) and 240 trainees (TE) in all 15 AM hospitals in Germany and Switzerland, using the ETHZ questionnaire for annual national PGMT assessments in Switzerland (CH) and Germany (D), complemented by a module for AM. Data analysis included Cronbach's alpha to assess internal consistency questionnaire scales, 2-tailed Pearson correlation of specific quality dimensions of PGMT and department size, 2-tailed Wilcoxon Matched-Pair test for dependent variables and 2-tailed Mann-Whitney U-test for independent variables to calculate group differences. The level of significance was set at p < 0.05. Return rates were: D: TE 89/215 (41.39%), TR 78/184 (42.39%); CH: TE 19/25 (76%), TR 22/30 (73.33%). Cronbach's alpha values for TE scales were >0.8 or >0.9, and >0.7 to >0.5 for TR scales. Swiss hospitals surpassed German ones significantly in Global Satisfaction with AM (TR and TE); Clinical Competency training in CON (TE) and AM (TE, TR), Error Management, Culture of Decision Making, Evidence-based Medicine, and Clinical Competency in internal medicine CON and AM (TE). When the comparison was restricted to departments of comparable size, differences remained significant for Clinical Competencies in AM (TE, TR), and Culture of Decision Making (TE). CON received better grades than AM in Global Satisfaction and Clinical Competency. Quality of PGMT depended on department size, working conditions and structural training features. The lower quality of PGMT in German hospitals can be attributed to larger departments, more difficult working conditions, and less favorable structural features for PGMT in AM, possibly also in relation to increased financial pressure.

Separation of Trivalent Actinides from Lanthanides Using a Capillary Electrophoresis

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

Mori, Tomotaka; Ishii, Yasuo; Hayashi, Kazunori

2007-07-01

A separation of {sup 241}Am(III) from {sup 152,154}Eu(III) was carried out using a capillary electrophoresis technique in a mixed solvent (CH{sub 3}OH/H{sub 2}O) system containing thiocyanate ion. First, the formation constants ({beta}{sub n}) between thiocyanate ion and Eu(III) or Am(III) were investigated in the mixed solvent solutions by a back-extraction technique using bis (2-ethylhexyl) hydrogen phosphate-toluene. The mean charges calculated on the basis of the data of {beta}{sub n} for Eu(III) were comparatively higher than those for Am(III). Based on the differences between the mean charges of Eu(III) and Am(III), separations for Am(III)/Eu(III) by means of capillary electrophoresis technique weremore » tried in the (H{sup +}, Na{sup +})(SCN{sup -}, ClO{sub 4}{sup -}) mixed solvent solutions. It was proved that Am(III) was completely separated from Eu(III). (authors)« less

Technical basis for the use of a correlated neutron source in the uranium neutron coincidence collar

DOE PAGES

Root, Margaret A.; Menlove, Howard Olsen; Lanza, Richard C.; ...

2017-01-16

Active neutron coincidence systems are commonly used by international inspectorates to verify a material balance across the various stages of the nuclear fuel cycle. The Uranium Neutron Coincidence Collar (UNCL) is one such instrument; it is used to measure the linear density of 235U (g 235U/cm of active length in assembly) in fresh light water reactor fuel in nuclear fuel fabrication facilities. The UNCL and other active neutron interrogation detectors have historically relied on americium lithium ( 241AmLi) sources to induce fission within the sample in question. Californium-252 is under consideration as a possible alternative to the traditional 241AmLi source.more » Finally, this work relied upon a combination of experiments and Monte Carlo simulations to demonstrate the technical basis for the replacement of 241AmLi sources with 252Cf sources by evaluating the statistical uncertainty in the measurements incurred by each source and assessing the penetrability of neutrons from each source for the UNCL.« less

Technical basis for the use of a correlated neutron source in the uranium neutron coincidence collar

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

Root, Margaret A.; Menlove, Howard Olsen; Lanza, Richard C.

Active neutron coincidence systems are commonly used by international inspectorates to verify a material balance across the various stages of the nuclear fuel cycle. The Uranium Neutron Coincidence Collar (UNCL) is one such instrument; it is used to measure the linear density of 235U (g 235U/cm of active length in assembly) in fresh light water reactor fuel in nuclear fuel fabrication facilities. The UNCL and other active neutron interrogation detectors have historically relied on americium lithium ( 241AmLi) sources to induce fission within the sample in question. Californium-252 is under consideration as a possible alternative to the traditional 241AmLi source.more » Finally, this work relied upon a combination of experiments and Monte Carlo simulations to demonstrate the technical basis for the replacement of 241AmLi sources with 252Cf sources by evaluating the statistical uncertainty in the measurements incurred by each source and assessing the penetrability of neutrons from each source for the UNCL.« less

Spatial expression of components of a calcitonin receptor-like receptor (CRL) signalling system (CRL, calcitonin gene-related peptide, adrenomedullin, adrenomedullin-2/intermedin) in mouse and human heart valves.

PubMed

Pfeil, Uwe; Bharathala, Subhashini; Murtaza, Ghulam; Mermer, Petra; Papadakis, Tamara; Boening, Andreas; Kummer, Wolfgang

2016-12-01

Heart valves are highly organized structures determining the direction of blood flow through the heart. Smooth muscle cells within the valve are thought to play an active role during the heart cycle, rather than being just passive flaps. The mature heart valve is composed of extracellular matrix (ECM), various differentiations of valvular interstitial cells (VIC), smooth muscle cells and overlying endothelium. VIC are important for maintaining the structural integrity of the valve, thereby affecting valve function and ECM remodelling. Accumulating evidence suggests an important role of calcitonin receptor-like receptor (CRL) signalling in preventing heart damage under several pathological conditions. Thus we investigate the existence of a putative CRL signalling system in mouse and human heart valves by real-time RT-PCR, laser-assisted microdissection, immunofluorescence and NADPH-diaphorase histochemistry. Mouse and human heart valves expressed mRNAs for the CRL ligands adrenomedullin (AM), adrenomedullin-2 (AM-2) and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and for their receptor components, i.e., CRL and receptor-activity-modifying proteins 1-3. Immunofluorescence analysis revealed AM-, AM-2- and CRL-immunolabelling in endothelial cells and VIC, whereas CGRP immunoreactivity was restricted to nerve fibres and some endothelial cells. Nitric oxide synthase activity, as demonstrated by NADPH-diaphorase histochemistry, was shown mainly in valvular endothelial cells in mice, whereas in human aortic valves, VIC and smooth muscle cells were positive. Our results showed the presence of an intrinsic AM/AM-2/CGRP signalling system in murine and human heart valves with distinct cellular localization, suggesting its involvement in the regulation of valve stiffness and ECM production and turnover.

Factors Influencing Participation in Continuing Professional Development: A Focus on Motivation Among Pharmacists.

PubMed

Tjin A Tsoi, Sharon L N M; de Boer, Anthonius; Croiset, Gerda; Koster, Andries S; Kusurkar, Rashmi A

2016-01-01

The interest in continuing education (CE) for pharmacists has increased because of patient safety issues, advancing science and the quick changes in the profession. Therefore, contemporary pharmaceutical care requires an effective and sustainable system for pharmacists to maintain and improve competencies. Although motivation plays an important role both as a facilitator (desire to learn) and a barrier (lack of motivation), there is little investigated about this specific factor. The aim of the study was to explore what factors influence pharmacists' participation in CE with a focus on motivation. The theoretical framework was self-determination theory (SDT), which describes autonomous motivation (AM) representing motivation from an internal locus of causality, controlled motivation (CM) originating from an external locus of causality, and relative autonomous motivation (RAM) that measures the AM in an individual after correcting for the CM. The relationship between pharmacists' characteristics, especially their motivation (AM, CM and RAM) in CE, and their participation in CE activities was explored using the AMS-questionnaire and the Dutch online portfolio system. RAM was positively correlated with CE participation of pharmacists and explained 7.8% of the variance. The correlations between the independent variables AM and CM and CE hours were negative (-0.301 and -0.476, respectively). Other factors influencing CE participation were pharmacy school (6.8%), traineeship (10.9%), and work experience (7.8%). Pharmacists participated for 27.0 hours on average in CE during 11 months and preferred face-to-face-learning (85.5%) above e-learning (13.8%). Our findings show a positive relationship between RAM and CE participation. The current CE system is probably not conducive to stimulation of AM. Further research is needed to understand the factors that stimulate pharmacists' motivation and participation in CE.

The D-D Neutron Generator as an Alternative to Am(Li) Isotopic Neutron Source in the Active Well Coincidence Counter

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

McElroy, Robert Dennis; Cleveland, Steven L.

The 235U mass assay of bulk uranium items, such as oxide canisters, fuel pellets, and fuel assemblies, is not achievable by traditional gamma-ray assay techniques due to the limited penetration of the item by the characteristic 235U gamma rays. Instead, fast neutron interrogation methods such as active neutron coincidence counting must be used. For international safeguards applications, the most commonly used active neutron systems, the Active Well Coincidence Counter (AWCC), Uranium Neutron Collar (UNCL) and 252Cf Shuffler, rely on fast neutron interrogation using an isotopic neutron source [i.e., 252Cf or Am(Li)] to achieve better measurement accuracies than are possible usingmore » gamma-ray techniques for high-mass, high-density items. However, the Am(Li) sources required for the AWCC and UNCL systems are no longer manufactured, and newly produced systems rely on limited supplies of sources salvaged from disused instruments. The 252Cf shuffler systems rely on the use of high-output 252Cf sources, which while still available have become extremely costly for use in routine operations and require replacement every five to seven years. Lack of a suitable alternative neutron interrogation source would leave a potentially significant gap in the safeguarding of uranium processing facilities. In this work, we made use of Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s (ORNL’s) Large Volume Active Well Coincidence Counter (LV-AWCC) and a commercially available deuterium-deuterium (D-D) neutron generator to examine the potential of the D-D neutron generator as an alternative to the isotopic sources. We present the performance of the LV-AWCC with D-D generator for the assay of 235U based on the results of Monte Carlo N-Particle (MCNP) simulations and measurements of depleted uranium (DU), low enriched uranium (LEU), and highly enriched uranium (HEU) items.« less

Antidepressant-like effects of the cannabinoid receptor ligands in the forced swimming test in mice: mechanism of action and possible interactions with cholinergic system.

PubMed

Kruk-Slomka, Marta; Michalak, Agnieszka; Biala, Grazyna

2015-05-01

The purpose of the experiments was to explore the role of the endocannabinoid system, through cannabinoid (CB) receptor ligands, nicotine and scopolamine, in the depression-related responses using the forced swimming test (FST) in mice. Our results revealed that acute injection of oleamide (10 and 20 mg/kg), a CB1 receptor agonist, caused antidepressant-like effect in the FST, while AM 251 (0.25-3 mg/kg), a CB1 receptor antagonist, did not provoke any effect in this test. Moreover, acute administration of both CB2 receptor agonist, JWH 133 (0.5 and 1 mg/kg) and CB2 receptor antagonist, AM 630 (0.5 mg/kg), exhibited antidepressant action. Antidepressant effects of oleamide and JWH 133 were attenuated by acute injection of both non-effective dose of AM 251, as well as AM 630. Among the all CB compounds used, only the combination of non-effective dose of oleamide (2.5 mg/kg) with non-effective dose of nicotine (0.5 mg/kg) caused an antidepressant effect. However, none of the CB receptor ligands, had influence on the antidepressant effects provoked by nicotine (0.2 mg/kg) injection. In turn, the combination of non-effective dose of oleamide (2.5 mg/kg); JWH (2 mg/kg) or AM 630 (2 mg/kg), but not of AM 251 (0.25 mg/kg), with non-effective dose of scopolamine (0.1 mg/kg), exhibited antidepressant properties. Indeed, all of the CB compounds used, intensified the antidepressant-like effects induced by an acute injection of scopolamine (0.3 mg/kg). Our results provide clear evidence that the endocannabinoid system participates in the depression-related behavior and through interactions with cholinergic system modulate these kind of responses. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Environmental and Economic Implications of Distributed Additive Manufacturing: The Case of Injection Mold Tooling: Environmental Implications of Additive Manufacturing

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

Huang, Runze; Riddle, Matthew E.; Graziano, Diane

Additive manufacturing (AM) holds great potentials in enabling superior engineering functionality, streamlining supply chains, and reducing life cycle impacts compared to conventional manufacturing (CM). This study estimates the net changes in supply-chain lead time, life cycle primary energy consumption, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and life cycle costs (LCC) associated with AM technologies for the case of injection molding, to shed light on the environmental and economic advantages of a shift from international or onshore CM to AM in the United States. A systems modeling framework is developed, with integrations of lead-time analysis, life cycle inventory analysis, LCC model, and scenariosmore » considering design differences, supply-chain options, productions, maintenance, and AM technological developments. AM yields a reduction potential of 3% to 5% primary energy, 4% to 7% GHG emissions, 12% to 60% lead time, and 15% to 35% cost over 1 million cycles of the injection molding production depending on the AM technology advancement in future. The economic advantages indicate the significant role of AM technology in raising global manufacturing competitiveness of local producers, while the relatively small environmental benefits highlight the necessity of considering trade-offs and balance techniques between environmental and economic performances when AM is adopted in the tooling industry. The results also help pinpoint the technological innovations in AM that could lead to broader benefits in future.« less

Environmental and Economic Implications of Distributed Additive Manufacturing: The Case of Injection Mold Tooling: Environmental Implications of Additive Manufacturing

DOE PAGES

Huang, Runze; Riddle, Matthew E.; Graziano, Diane; ...

2017-08-26

Additive manufacturing (AM) holds great potentials in enabling superior engineering functionality, streamlining supply chains, and reducing life cycle impacts compared to conventional manufacturing (CM). This study estimates the net changes in supply-chain lead time, life cycle primary energy consumption, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and life cycle costs (LCC) associated with AM technologies for the case of injection molding, to shed light on the environmental and economic advantages of a shift from international or onshore CM to AM in the United States. A systems modeling framework is developed, with integrations of lead-time analysis, life cycle inventory analysis, LCC model, and scenariosmore » considering design differences, supply-chain options, productions, maintenance, and AM technological developments. AM yields a reduction potential of 3% to 5% primary energy, 4% to 7% GHG emissions, 12% to 60% lead time, and 15% to 35% cost over 1 million cycles of the injection molding production depending on the AM technology advancement in future. The economic advantages indicate the significant role of AM technology in raising global manufacturing competitiveness of local producers, while the relatively small environmental benefits highlight the necessity of considering trade-offs and balance techniques between environmental and economic performances when AM is adopted in the tooling industry. The results also help pinpoint the technological innovations in AM that could lead to broader benefits in future.« less

Another look at AM Herculis - radio-astrometric campaign with the e-EVN at 6 cm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gawroński, M. P.; Goździewski, K.; Katarzyński, K.; Rycyk, G.

2018-03-01

We conducted radio-interferometric observations of the well-known binary cataclysmic system AM Herculis. This particular system is formed from a magnetic white dwarf (primary) and a red dwarf (secondary), and it is the prototype of so-called polars. Our observations were conducted with the European VLBI Network (EVN) in e-EVN mode at 5 GHz. We obtained six astrometric measurements spanning 1 yr, which make it possible to update the annual parallax for this system with the best precision to date (π = 11.29 ± 0.08 mas), which is equivalent to a distance of 88.6 ± 0.6 pc. The system was observed mostly in the quiescent phase (visual magnitude mv ˜ 15.3), when the radio emission was at the level of about 300 μJy. Our analysis suggests that the radio flux of AM Herculis is modulated with the orbital motion. Such specific properties of the radiation can be explained using an emission mechanism like the scenario proposed for V471 Tau and, in general, for RS CVn-type stars. In this scenario, the radio emission arises near the surface of the red dwarf, where the global magnetic field strength may reach a few kG. We argue that the quiescent radio emission distinguishes AM Herculis and AR Ursae Majoris (a second known persistent radio polar) from other polars, which are systems with a magnetized secondary star.

Compact injector with alternating phase focusing-interdigital H-mode linac and superconducting electron cyclotron resonance ion source for heavy ion cancer therapy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hayashizaki, Noriyosu; Hattori, Toshiyuki; Matsui, Shinjiro; Tomizawa, Hiromitsu; Yoshida, Toru; Isokawa, Katsushi; Kitagawa, Atsushi; Muramatsu, Masayuki; Yamada, Satoru; Okamura, Masahiro

2000-02-01

We have researched a compact medical accelerator with low investment and running cost for the popularization of heavy ion cancer therapy. As the first step, the compact injector system has been investigated for a Heavy Ion Medical Accelerator in Chiba at National Institute of Radiological Sciences. The proposed new injector system consists of a 6 MeV/u interdigital H-mode (IH) linac of 3.1 m long and a 18 GHz superconducting electron cyclotron resonance (ECR) (SC-ECR) ion source. The IH linac with high power efficiency is appropriate to a medical and industrial injector system. Its beam trajectory was simulated and a prototype has been constructed. The SC-ECR ion source has been designed to realize lightweight and low power consumption and the mirror field distribution was estimated.