Drilling the Thuringian Syncline, Germany: core processing during the INFLUINS scientific deep drilling campaign

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abratis, Michael; Methe, Pascal; Aehnelt, Michaela; Kunkel, Cindy; Beyer, Daniel; Kukowski, Nina; Totsche, Kai Uwe

2014-05-01

Deep drilling of the central Thuringian Syncline was carried out in order to gather substantial knowledge of subsurface fluid dynamics and fluid rock interaction within a sedimentary basin. The final depth of the borehole was successfully reached at 1179 m, just a few meters above the Buntsandstein - Zechstein boundary. One of the aspects of the scientific drilling was obtaining sample material from different stratigraphic units for insights in genesis, rock properties and fluid-rock interactions. Parts of the section were cored whereas cuttings provide record of the remaining units. Coring was conducted in aquifers and their surrounding aquitards, i.e. parts of the Upper Muschelkalk (Trochitenkalk), the Middle Muschelkalk, the Upper Buntsandstein (Pelitrot and Salinarrot) and the Middle Buntsandstein. In advance and in cooperation with the GFZ Potsdam team "Scientific Drilling" core handling was discussed and a workflow was developed to ensure efficient and appropriate processing of the valuable core material and related data. Core curation including cleaning, fitting, marking, measuring, cutting, boxing, photographing and unrolled scanning using a DMT core scanner was carried out on the drilling site in Erfurt. Due care was exercised on samples for microbiological analyses. These delicate samples were immediately cut when leaving the core tube and stored within a cooling box at -78°C. Special software for data input was used developed by smartcube GmbH. Advantages of this drilling information system (DIS) are the compatibility with formats of international drilling projects from the IODP and ICDP drilling programs and thus options for exchanges with the international data bases. In a following step, the drill cores were brought to the national core repository of the BGR in Berlin Spandau where the cores were logged for their physical rock properties using a GeoTek multi sensor core logger (MSCL). After splitting the cores into a working and archive half, the cores were scanned for compositional variations using an XRF core scanner at the BGR lab and scan images of the slabbed surfaces were performed. The average core recovery rate was very high at nearly 100%. Altogether, we gained 533 m of excellent core material including sandstones, siltstones and claystones, carbonates, sulfates and chlorides. This provides valuable insight into the stratigraphic column of the Thuringian Syncline.

Core-Cutoff Tool

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gheen, Darrell

2007-01-01

A tool makes a cut perpendicular to the cylindrical axis of a core hole at a predetermined depth to free the core at that depth. The tool does not damage the surrounding material from which the core was cut, and it operates within the core-hole kerf. Coring usually begins with use of a hole saw or a hollow cylindrical abrasive cutting tool to make an annular hole that leaves the core (sometimes called the plug ) in place. In this approach to coring as practiced heretofore, the core is removed forcibly in a manner chosen to shear the core, preferably at or near the greatest depth of the core hole. Unfortunately, such forcible removal often damages both the core and the surrounding material (see Figure 1). In an alternative prior approach, especially applicable to toxic or fragile material, a core is formed and freed by means of milling operations that generate much material waste. In contrast, the present tool eliminates the damage associated with the hole-saw approach and reduces the extent of milling operations (and, hence, reduces the waste) associated with the milling approach. The present tool (see Figure 2) includes an inner sleeve and an outer sleeve and resembles the hollow cylindrical tool used to cut the core hole. The sleeves are thin enough that this tool fits within the kerf of the core hole. The inner sleeve is attached to a shaft that, in turn, can be attached to a drill motor or handle for turning the tool. This tool also includes a cutting wire attached to the distal ends of both sleeves. The cutting wire is long enough that with sufficient relative rotation of the inner and outer sleeves, the wire can cut all the way to the center of the core. The tool is inserted in the kerf until its distal end is seated at the full depth. The inner sleeve is then turned. During turning, frictional drag on the outer core pulls the cutting wire into contact with the core. The cutting force of the wire against the core increases with the tension in the wire and, hence, with the frictional drag acting on the outer sleeve. As the wire cuts toward the center of the core, the inner sleeve rotates farther with respect to the outer sleeve. Once the wire has cut to the center of the core, the tool and the core can be removed from the hole. The proper choice of cutting wire depends on the properties of the core material. For a sufficiently soft core material, a nonmetallic monofilament can be used. For a rubber-like core material, a metal wire can be used. For a harder core material, it is necessary to use an abrasive wire, and the efficiency of the tool can be increased greatly by vacuuming away the particles generated during cutting. For a core material that can readily be melted or otherwise cut by use of heat, it could be preferable to use an electrically heated cutting wire. In such a case, electric current can be supplied to the cutting wire, from an electrically isolated source, via rotating contact rings mounted on the sleeves.

Studies of pre-Selma Cretaceous core samples from the outcrop area in western Alabama

USGS Publications Warehouse

Monroe, Watson Hiner; Bergenback, Richard E.; Sohl, Norman F.; Applin, Esther R.; Leopold, Estella B.; Pakiser, Helen M.; Conant, Louis C.

1964-01-01

Quarter-cuts of the cores belonging to the U.S. National Museum have been deposited on indefinite loan with the Alabama Geological Survey at University, Ala., and with the Shell Oil Co. at Jackson, Miss. They are available there for inspection and study.

System Would Acquire Core and Powder Samples of Rocks

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bar-Cohen, Yoseph; Randolph, James; Bao, Xiaoqi; Sherrit, Stewart; Ritz, Chuck; Cook, Greg

2006-01-01

A system for automated sampling of rocks, ice, and similar hard materials at and immediately below the surface of the ground is undergoing development. The system, denoted a sample preparation, acquisition, handling, and delivery (SPAHD) device, would be mounted on a robotic exploratory vehicle that would traverse the terrain of interest on the Earth or on a remote planet. The SPAHD device would probe the ground to obtain data for optimization of sampling, prepare the surface, acquire samples in the form(s) of cores and/or powdered cuttings, and deliver the samples to a selected location for analysis and/or storage.

Study on design and cutting parameters of rotating needles for core biopsy.

PubMed

Giovannini, Marco; Ren, Huaqing; Cao, Jian; Ehmann, Kornel

2018-06-15

Core needle biopsies are widely adopted medical procedures that consist in the removal of biological tissue to better identify a lesion or an abnormality observed through a physical exam or a radiology scan. These procedures can provide significantly more information than most medical tests and they are usually performed on bone lesions, breast masses, lymph nodes and the prostate. The quality of the samples mainly depends on the forces exerted by the needle during the cutting process. The reduction of these forces is critical to extract high-quality tissue samples. The most critical factors that affect the cutting forces are the geometry of the needle tip and its motion while it is penetrating the tissue. However, optimal needle tip configurations and cutting parameters are not well established for rotating insertions. In this paper, the geometry and cutting forces of hollow needles are investigated. The fundamental goal of this study is to provide a series of guidelines for clinicians and surgeons to properly select the optimal tip geometries and speeds. Analytical models related to the cutting angles of several needle tip designs are presented and compared. Several needle tip geometries were manufactured from a 14-gauge cannula, commonly adopted during breast biopsies. The needles were then tested at different speeds and on different phantom tissues. According to these experimental measurements recommendations were formulated for rotating needle insertions. The findings of this study can be applied and extended to several biopsy procedures in which a cannula is used to extract tissue samples. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Diameter Growth in Even- and Uneven-Aged Northern Hardwoods in New Hampshire Under Partial Cutting

Treesearch

William B. Leak

2004-01-01

One important concern in the conversion of even-aged stands to an uneven aged condition through individual-tree or small-group cutting is the growth response throughout the diameter-class distribution, especially of the understoty trees Increment-core sampling of an older, uneven-aged northern hardwood stand in New Hampshire under management for about 50 years...

Accessing SAFOD data products: Downhole measurements, physical samples and long-term monitoring

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weiland, C.; Zoback, M.; Hickman, S. H.; Ellsworth, W. L.

2005-12-01

Many different types of data were collected during SAFOD Phases 1 and 2 (2004-2005) as part of the National Science Foundation's EarthScope program as well as from the SAFOD Pilot Hole, drilled in 2002 and funded by the International Continental Drilling Program (ICDP). Both SAFOD and the SAFOD Pilot Hole are being conducted as a close collaboration between NSF, the U.S. Geological Survey and the ICDP. SAFOD data products include cuttings, core and fluid samples; borehole geophysical measurements; and strain, tilt, and seismic recordings from the multilevel SAFOD borehole monitoring instruments. As with all elements of EarthScope, these data (and samples) are openly available to members of the scientific and educational communities. This paper presents the acquisition, storage and distribution plan for SAFOD data products. Washed and unwashed drill cuttings and mud samples were collected during Phases 1 and 2, along with three spot cores at depths of 1.5, 2.5, and 3.1 km. A total of 52 side-wall cores were also collected in the open-hole interval between 2.5 and 3.1 km depth. The primary coring effort will occur during Phase 3 (2007), when we will continuously core up to four, 250-m-long multilaterals directly within and adjacent to the San Andreas Fault Zone. Drill cuttings, core, and fluid samples from all three Phases of SAFOD drilling are being curated under carefully controlled conditions at the Integrated Ocean Drilling Program (IODP) Gulf Coast Repository in College Station, Texas. Photos of all physical samples and a downloadable sample request form are available on the ICDP website (http://www.icdp-online.de/sites/sanandreas/index/index.html). A suite of downhole geophysical measurements was conducted during the first two Phases of SAFOD drilling, as well as during drilling of the SAFOD Pilot Hole. These data include density, resistivity, porosity, seismic and borehole image logs and are also available via the ICDP website. The SAFOD monitoring program includes fiber-optic strain, tilt, seismic and fluid-pressure recording instruments. Seismic data from the Pilot Hole array are now available in SEED format from the Northern California Earthquake Data Center (http://quake.geo.berkeley.edu/safod/). The strain and tilt instruments are still undergoing testing and quality assurance, and these data will be available through the same web site as soon as possible. Lastly, two terabytes of unprocessed (SEG-2 format) data from a two-week deployment of an 80-level seismic array during April/May 2005 by Paulsson Geophysical Services, Inc. are now available via the IRIS data center (http://www.iris.edu/data/data.htm). Drilling parameters include real-time descriptions of drill cuttings mineralogy, drilling mud properties, and mechanical data related to the drilling process and are available via the ICDP web site. Current status reports on SAFOD drilling, borehole measurements, sampling, and monitoring instrumentation will continue to be available from the EarthScope web site (http://www.earthscope.org).

Longer biopsy cores do not increase prostate cancer detection rate: A large-scale cohort study refuting cut-off values indicated in the literature

PubMed Central

Yılmaz, Hasan; Yavuz, Ufuk; Üstüner, Murat; Çiftçi, Seyfettin; Yaşar, Hikmet; Müezzinoğlu, Bahar; Uslubaş, Ali Kemal; Dillioğlugil, Özdal

2017-01-01

Objective Only a few papers in the literature aimed to evaluate biopsy core lengths. Additionally, studies evaluated the core length with different approaches. We aimed to determine whether prostate cancer (PCa) detection is affected from core lengths according to three different approaches in a large standard cohort and compare our cut-off values with the published cut-offs. Material and methods We retrospectively analyzed 1,523 initial consecutive transrectal ultrasound-guided 12-core prostate biopsies. Biopsies were evaluated with respect to total core length (total length of each patients’ core) average core length (total core length divided by total number of cores in each patient), and mean core length (mean length of all cores pooled), and compared our cut-off values with the published cut-offs. The prostate volumes were categorized into four groups (<30, 30–59.99, 60–119.99, ≥120 cm3) and PCa detection rates in these categories were examined. Results PCa was found in 41.5% patients. There was no difference between benign and malignant mean core lengths of the pooled cores (p>0.05). Total core length and average core length were not significantly associated with PCa in multivariate logistic regression analyses (p>0.05). The core lengths (mean, average and total core lengths) increased (p<0.001) and PCa rates decreased (p<0.001) steadily with increasing prostate volume categories. PCa percentages decreased in all categories above the utilized cut-offs for mean (p>0.05), average (p<0.05), and total core lengths (p>0.05). Conclusion There was no difference between mean core lengths of benign and malignant cores. Total core length and average core length were not significantly associated with PCa. Contrary to the cut-offs used for mean and average core lengths in the published studies, PCa rates decrease as these core lengths increase. Larger studies are necessary for the determination and acceptance of accurate cut-offs. PMID:28861301

Vergleich von hydraulischen und chemischen Sedimenteigenschaften aus Spül- und Kernbohrungen im Raum Peine (Norddeutschland)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Konrad, C.; Walther, W.; Reimann, T.; Rogge, A.; Stengel, P.; Well, R.

2008-03-01

Comparison of hydraulic and chemical properties of sediments from flush- and core drillings in the area of Peine (Germany). Because of financial constraints, investigations of nitrate metabolism are often based on disturbed borehole samples. It is arguable, however, whether disturbed samples are suitable for these types of investigations. Disadvantages of disturbed samples in comparison to undisturbed core samples are well known and include possible contamination of the sample by mud additives, destruction of the sediment formation and the insecurity concerning the correct depth allocation. In this study, boreholes were drilled at three locations to a maximum depth of 50 m. The extracted samples, as intact sediment cores and drill cuttings, were studied with regard to chemical and hydraulic parameters of the aquifer sediments. The results show: 1. hydraulic parameters are not affected by clay-based mud; 2. disturbed samples contain less fine grain material relative to the core samples, and the hydraulic conductivity can only be estimated from catch samples; 3. catch samples contain fewer reducing agents (sulphides, organic carbon) than core samples in hydraulically passive zones (defined as K < 10 6 m · s 1); 4. the results of analyses of disturbed and undisturbed core samples are in good agreement for hydraulically active zones (K ≥ 10 6 m · s 1).

Frictional and hydrologic behavior of the San Andreas Fault: Insights from laboratory experiments on SAFOD cuttings and core

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carpenter, B. M.; Marone, C.; Saffer, D. M.

2010-12-01

The debate concerning the apparent low strength of tectonic faults, including the San Andreas Fault (SAF), continues to focus on: 1) low intrinsic friction resulting from mineralogy and/or fabric, and 2) decreased effective normal stress due to elevated pore pressure. Here we inform this debate with laboratory measurements of the frictional behavior and permeability of cuttings and core returned from the SAF at a vertical depth of 2.7 km. We conducted experiments on cuttings and core recovered during SAFOD Phase III drilling. All samples in this study are adjacent to and within the active fault zone penetrated at 10814.5 ft (3296m) measured depth in the SAFOD borehole. We sheared gouge samples composed of drilling cuttings in a double-direct shear configuration subject to true-triaxial loading under constant effective normal stress, confining pressure, and pore pressure. Intact wafers of material were sheared in a single-direct shear configuration under similar conditions of effective stress, confining pressure, and pore pressure. We also report on permeability measurements on intact wafers of wall rock and fault gouge prior to shearing. Initial results from experiments on cuttings show: 1) a weak fault (µ=~0.21) compared to the surrounding wall rock (µ=~0.35), 2) velocity strengthening behavior, (a-b > 0), consistent with aseismic slip, and 3) near zero healing rates in material from the active fault. XRD analysis on cuttings indicates the main mineralogical difference between fault rock and wall rock, is the presence of significant amounts of smectite within the fault rock. Taken together, the measured frictional behavior and clay mineral content suggest that the clay composition exhibits a basic control on fault behavior. Our results document the first direct evidence of weak material from an active fault at seismogenic depths. In addition, our results could explain why the SAF in central California fails aseismically and hosts only small earthquakes.

Management implications of long-term tree growth and mortality rates: A modeling study of big-leaf mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla) in the Brazilian Amazon

Treesearch

C.M. Free; R.M. Landis; J. Grogan; M.D. Schulze; M. Lentini; O. Dunisch; NO-VALUE

2014-01-01

Knowledge of tree age-size relationships is essential towards evaluating the sustainability of harvest regulations that include minimum diameter cutting limits and fixed-length cutting cycles. Although many tropical trees form annual growth rings and can be aged from discs or cores, destructive sampling is not always an option for valuable or threatened species. We...

FORGE Milford Triaxial Test Data and Summary from EGI labs

DOE Data Explorer

Joe Moore

2016-03-01

Six samples were evaluated in unconfined and triaxial compression, their data are included in separate excel spreadsheets, and summarized in the word document. Three samples were plugged along the axis of the core (presumed to be nominally vertical) and three samples were plugged perpendicular to the axis of the core. A designation of "V"indicates vertical or the long axis of the plugged sample is aligned with the axis of the core. Similarly, "H" indicates a sample that is nominally horizontal and cut orthogonal to the axis of the core. Stress-strain curves were made before and after the testing, and are included in the word doc.. The confining pressure for this test was 2800 psi. A series of tests are being carried out on to define a failure envelope, to provide representative hydraulic fracture design parameters and for future geomechanical assessments. The samples are from well 52-21, which reaches a maximum depth of 3581 ft +/- 2 ft into a gneiss complex.

Information Seeking Behavior of Geologists When Searching for Physical Samples

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ramdeen, Sarah

2017-01-01

Information seeking is "a conscious effort to acquire information in response to a need or gap" in your knowledge (Case, 2007, p. 5). In the geosciences, physical samples such as cores, cuttings, fossils, and rocks are primary sources of information; they represent "the foundation of basic and applied geoscience research and…

GUM Analysis for TIMS Isotopic Ratios in BEP0 Graphite Qualification Samples, Round 2

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

Gerlach, David C.; Heasler, Patrick G.; Reid, Bruce D.

In May 2007, one set of three samples from NBL were addressed to Steve Petersen for TIMS analysis, and included BEP0 samples numbered 27008, 30986, and 50846. All cores were trimmed by tooling, and lightly cleaned by CO2 pellet blasting. Small discs were cut from the second set of samples for SIMS analysis, with the remainder of each used for TIMS preparation.

Design and testing of coring bits on drilling lunar rock simulant

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Peng; Jiang, Shengyuan; Tang, Dewei; Xu, Bo; Ma, Chao; Zhang, Hui; Qin, Hongwei; Deng, Zongquan

2017-02-01

Coring bits are widely utilized in the sampling of celestial bodies, and their drilling behaviors directly affect the sampling results and drilling security. This paper introduces a lunar regolith coring bit (LRCB), which is a key component of sampling tools for lunar rock breaking during the lunar soil sampling process. We establish the interaction model between the drill bit and rock at a small cutting depth, and the two main influential parameters (forward and outward rake angles) of LRCB on drilling loads are determined. We perform the parameter screening task of LRCB with the aim to minimize the weight on bit (WOB). We verify the drilling load performances of LRCB after optimization, and the higher penetrations per revolution (PPR) are, the larger drilling loads we gained. Besides, we perform lunar soil drilling simulations to estimate the efficiency on chip conveying and sample coring of LRCB. The results of the simulation and test are basically consistent on coring efficiency, and the chip removal efficiency of LRCB is slightly lower than HIT-H bit from simulation. This work proposes a method for the design of coring bits in subsequent extraterrestrial explorations.

Toroidal converter core

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mclyman, W. T.

1977-01-01

Improved approach consists of cut and uncut cores nested in concentric configuration. Cores are made by winding steel ribbon on mandrel and impregnating with epoxy to bond layers together. Gap is made by cutting across wound and bonded core. Rough ends are ground or lapped.

Elastic anisotropy and borehole stress estimation in the Seve Nappe Complex from the COSC-1 well, Åre, Sweden.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wenning, Quinn; Almquist, Bjarne; Ask, Maria; Schmitt, Douglas R.; Zappone, Alba

2015-04-01

The Caledonian orogeny, preserved in Scandinavia and Greenland, began with the closure of the Iapetus Ocean and culminated in the collision of Baltica and Laurentia cratons during the middle Paleozoic. The COSC scientific drilling project aims at understanding the crustal structure and composition of the Scandinavian Caledonides. The first well of the dual phase drilling program, completed in Summer of 2014, drilled through ~2.5 km of the Seve Nappe Complex near the town of Åre, Sweden. Newly acquired drill core and borehole logs provide fresh core material for physical rock property measurements and in-situ stress determination. This contribution presents preliminary data on compressional and shear wave ultrasonic velocities (Vp, Vs) determined from laboratory measurements on drill cores, together with in-situ stress orientation analysis using image logs from the first borehole of the Collisional Orogeny in the Scandinavian Caledonides project (COSC-1). An hydrostatically oil pressurized apparatus is used to test the ultrasonic Vp and Vs on three orthogonally cut samples of amphibolite, calcium bearing and felsic gneiss, meta-gabbro, and mylonitic schist from drill core. We measure directional anisotropy variability for each lithology using one sample cut perpendicular to the foliation and two additional plugs cut parallel to the foliation with one parallel to the lineation and the other perpendicular. Measurements are performed using the pulse transmission technique on samples subjected to hydrostatic pressure from 1-350 MPa at dry conditions. We present preliminary results relating Vp and Vs anisotropy to geologic units and degree of deformation. Additionally, we use acoustic borehole televiewer logs to estimate the horizontal stress orientation making use of well developed techniques for observed borehole breakouts (compressive failure) and drilling induced fractures (tensile failure). Preliminary observations show that very few drilling-induced tensile fractures are produced, and that borehole breakouts are episodic and suggests a NE-SW minimum horizontal stress direction

Occurrence of Radio Minihalos in a Mass-Limited Sample of Galaxy Clusters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Giacintucci, Simona; Markevitch, Maxim; Cassano, Rossella; Venturi, Tiziana; Clarke, Tracy E.; Brunetti, Gianfranco

2017-01-01

We investigate the occurrence of radio minihalos-diffuse radio sources of unknown origin observed in the cores of some galaxy clusters-in a statistical sample of 58 clusters drawn from the Planck Sunyaev-Zeldovich cluster catalog using a mass cut (M(sub 500) greater than 6 x 10(exp 14) solar mass). We supplement our statistical sample with a similarly sized nonstatistical sample mostly consisting of clusters in the ACCEPT X-ray catalog with suitable X-ray and radio data, which includes lower-mass clusters. Where necessary (for nine clusters), we reanalyzed the Very Large Array archival radio data to determine whether a minihalo is present. Our total sample includes all 28 currently known and recently discovered radio minihalos, including six candidates. We classify clusters as cool-core or non-cool-core according to the value of the specific entropy floor in the cluster center, rederived or newly derived from the Chandra X-ray density and temperature profiles where necessary (for 27 clusters). Contrary to the common wisdom that minihalos are rare, we find that almost all cool cores-at least 12 out of 15 (80%)-in our complete sample of massive clusters exhibit minihalos. The supplementary sample shows that the occurrence of minihalos may be lower in lower-mass cool-core clusters. No minihalos are found in non-cool cores or "warm cores." These findings will help test theories of the origin of minihalos and provide information on the physical processes and energetics of the cluster cores.

28. MODIFIED CHAIN SAW FOR CUTTING ROCK CORES; BRUNTON COMPASS ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

28. MODIFIED CHAIN SAW FOR CUTTING ROCK CORES; BRUNTON COMPASS STAND FOR DETERMINING CORE'S FIELD ORIENTATION; INSECTICIDE DISPENSER MODIFIED TO LUBRICATE CORE DRILLING PROCESS. - U.S. Geological Survey, Rock Magnetics Laboratory, 345 Middlefield Road, Menlo Park, San Mateo County, CA

Rapid Access Ice Drill: A New Tool for Exploration of the Deep Antarctic Ice Sheets and Subglacial Geology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goodge, J. W.; Severinghaus, J. P.

2014-12-01

The Rapid Access Ice Drill (RAID) will penetrate the Antarctic ice sheets in order to core through deep ice, the glacial bed, and into bedrock below. This new technology will provide a critical first look at the interface between major ice caps and their subglacial geology. Currently in construction, RAID is a mobile drilling system capable of making several long boreholes in a single field season in Antarctica. RAID is interdisciplinary and will allow access to polar paleoclimate records in ice >1 Ma, direct observation at the base of the ice sheets, and recovery of rock cores from the ice-covered East Antarctic craton. RAID uses a diamond rock-coring system as in mineral exploration. Threaded drill-pipe with hardened metal bits will cut through ice using reverse circulation of Estisol for pressure-compensation, maintenance of temperature, and removal of ice cuttings. Near the bottom of the ice sheet, a wireline bottom-hole assembly will enable diamond coring of ice, the glacial bed, and bedrock below. Once complete, boreholes will be kept open with fluid, capped, and made available for future down-hole measurement of thermal gradient, heat flow, ice chronology, and ice deformation. RAID will also sample for extremophile microorganisms. RAID is designed to penetrate up to 3,300 meters of ice and take sample cores in less than 200 hours. This rapid performance will allow completion of a borehole in about 10 days before moving to the next drilling site. RAID is unique because it can provide fast borehole access through thick ice; take short ice cores for paleoclimate study; sample the glacial bed to determine ice-flow conditions; take cores of subglacial bedrock for age dating and crustal history; and create boreholes for use as an observatory in the ice sheets. Together, the rapid drilling capability and mobility of the drilling system, along with ice-penetrating imaging methods, will provide a unique 3D picture of the interior Antarctic ice sheets.

Automated tru-cut imaging-guided core needle biopsy of canine orbital neoplasia. A prospective feasibility study

PubMed Central

Cirla, A.; Rondena, M.; Bertolini, G.

2016-01-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic value of imaging-guided core needle biopsy for canine orbital mass diagnosis. A second excisional biopsy obtained during surgery or necropsy was used as the reference standard. A prospective feasibility study was conducted in 23 canine orbital masses at a single centre. A complete ophthalmic examination was always followed by orbital ultrasound and computed tomography (CT) examination of the head. All masses were sampled with the patient still on the CT table using ultrasound (US) guided automatic tru-cut device. The most suitable sampling approach to the orbit was chosen each time based on the CT image analysis. One of the following different approaches was used: trans-orbital, trans-conjunctival or trans-masseteric. In all cases, the imaging-guided biopsy provided a sufficient amount of tissue for the histopathological diagnosis, which concurred with the biopsies obtained using the excisional technique. CT examination was essential for morphological diagnosis and provided detailed topographic information that allowed us to choose the safest orbital approach for the biopsy. US guided automatic tru-cut biopsy based on CT images, performed with patient still on the CT table, resulted in a minimally invasive, relatively easy, and accurate diagnostic procedure in dogs with orbital masses. PMID:27540512

Automated tru-cut imaging-guided core needle biopsy of canine orbital neoplasia. A prospective feasibility study.

PubMed

Cirla, A; Rondena, M; Bertolini, G

2016-01-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic value of imaging-guided core needle biopsy for canine orbital mass diagnosis. A second excisional biopsy obtained during surgery or necropsy was used as the reference standard. A prospective feasibility study was conducted in 23 canine orbital masses at a single centre. A complete ophthalmic examination was always followed by orbital ultrasound and computed tomography (CT) examination of the head. All masses were sampled with the patient still on the CT table using ultrasound (US) guided automatic tru-cut device. The most suitable sampling approach to the orbit was chosen each time based on the CT image analysis. One of the following different approaches was used: trans-orbital, trans-conjunctival or trans-masseteric. In all cases, the imaging-guided biopsy provided a sufficient amount of tissue for the histopathological diagnosis, which concurred with the biopsies obtained using the excisional technique. CT examination was essential for morphological diagnosis and provided detailed topographic information that allowed us to choose the safest orbital approach for the biopsy. US guided automatic tru-cut biopsy based on CT images, performed with patient still on the CT table, resulted in a minimally invasive, relatively easy, and accurate diagnostic procedure in dogs with orbital masses.

Rapid analysis of the microfibril angle of loblolly pine from two test sites using near-infrared analysis

Treesearch

ChiLeung So; Jennifer Myszewski; Thomas Elder; Les Groom

2013-01-01

Abstract There have been several recent studies employing near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy for the rapid determination of microfibril angle (MFA). However, only a few have utilized samples cut from individual rings of increment cores, and none have been as large as this present study, sampling over 600 trees from two test sites producing over 3000 individual ring...

Analytical results from samples collected during coal-bed methane exploration drilling in Caldwell Parish, Louisiana

USGS Publications Warehouse

Warwick, Peter D.; Breland, F. Clayton; Hackley, Paul C.; Dulong, Frank T.; Nichols, Douglas J.; Karlsen, Alexander W.; Bustin, R. Marc; Barker, Charles E.; Willett, Jason C.; Trippi, Michael H.

2006-01-01

In 2001, and 2002, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and the Louisiana Geological Survey (LGS), through a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with Devon SFS Operating, Inc. (Devon), participated in an exploratory drilling and coring program for coal-bed methane in north-central Louisiana. The USGS and LGS collected 25 coal core and cuttings samples from two coal-bed methane test wells that were drilled in west-central Caldwell Parish, Louisiana. The purpose of this report is to provide the results of the analytical program conducted on the USGS/LGS samples. The data generated from this project are summarized in various topical sections that include: 1. molecular and isotopic data from coal gas samples; 2. results of low-temperature ashing and X-ray analysis; 3. palynological data; 4. down-hole temperature data; 5. detailed core descriptions and selected core photographs; 6. coal physical and chemical analytical data; 7. coal gas desorption results; 8. methane and carbon dioxide coal sorption data; 9. coal petrographic results; and 10. geophysical logs.

43 CFR 3931.80 - Core or test hole samples and cuttings.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... OF LAND MANAGEMENT, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR RANGE MANAGEMENT (4000) MANAGEMENT OF OIL SHALE.... The records must include a log of all strata penetrated and conditions encountered, such as water, gas... operation or any deposit of oil, gas, other mineral substances, or ground water. (c) Operators may convert...

43 CFR 3931.80 - Core or test hole samples and cuttings.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... OF LAND MANAGEMENT, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR MINERALS MANAGEMENT (3000) MANAGEMENT OF OIL SHALE.... The records must include a log of all strata penetrated and conditions encountered, such as water, gas... operation or any deposit of oil, gas, other mineral substances, or ground water. (c) Operators may convert...

43 CFR 3931.80 - Core or test hole samples and cuttings.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... OF LAND MANAGEMENT, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR MINERALS MANAGEMENT (3000) MANAGEMENT OF OIL SHALE.... The records must include a log of all strata penetrated and conditions encountered, such as water, gas... operation or any deposit of oil, gas, other mineral substances, or ground water. (c) Operators may convert...

43 CFR 3931.80 - Core or test hole samples and cuttings.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... OF LAND MANAGEMENT, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR MINERALS MANAGEMENT (3000) MANAGEMENT OF OIL SHALE.... The records must include a log of all strata penetrated and conditions encountered, such as water, gas... operation or any deposit of oil, gas, other mineral substances, or ground water. (c) Operators may convert...

The PASADO core processing strategy — A proposed new protocol for sediment core treatment in multidisciplinary lake drilling projects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ohlendorf, Christian; Gebhardt, Catalina; Hahn, Annette; Kliem, Pierre; Zolitschka, Bernd

2011-07-01

Using the ICDP (International Continental Scientific Drilling Program) deep lake drilling expedition no. 5022 as an example, we describe core processing and sampling procedures as well as new tools developed for subsampling. A manual core splitter is presented that is (1) mobile, (2) able to cut plastic core liners lengthwise without producing swarf of liner material and (3) consists of off-the-shelf components. In order to improve the sampling of sediment cores, a new device, the core sampling assembly (CSA), was developed that meets the following targets: (1) the partitioning of the sediment into discs of equal thickness is fast and precise, (2) disturbed sediment at the inner surface of the liner is discarded during this sampling process, (3) usage of the available sediment is optimised, (4) subsamples are volumetric and oriented, and (5) identical subsamples are taken. The CSA can be applied to D-shaped split sediment cores of any diameter and consists of a divider and a D-shaped scoop. The sampling plan applied for ICDP expedition 5022 is illustrated and may be used as a guideline for planning the efficient partitioning of sediment amongst different lake research groups involved in multidisciplinary projects. For every subsample, the use of quality flags is suggested (1) to document the sample condition, (2) to give a first sediment classification and (3) to guarantee a precise adjustment of logging and scanning data with data determined on individual samples. Based on this, we propose a protocol that might be applied across lake drilling projects in order to facilitate planning and documentation of sampling campaigns and to ensure a better comparability of results.

Geological Data Preservation Program Receives Bipartisan Support

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Showstack, Randy

2014-09-01

More than 22 million vertical feet of geologic cores and cuttings fill the Kentucky Geological Survey's Well Sample and Core Library in Lexington. The materials are from at least 22,000 sites within Kentucky—including collections from oil and gas exploration operations, coal and other mining companies, highway construction projects, environmental studies, and federal facilities such as Fort Knox—and they are straining the 15-year-old facility to the point where there is no room to keep everything, according to geologist Patrick Gooding, the library manager.

Occurrence of Radio Minihalos in a Mass-limited Sample of Galaxy Clusters

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

Giacintucci, Simona; Clarke, Tracy E.; Markevitch, Maxim

2017-06-01

We investigate the occurrence of radio minihalos—diffuse radio sources of unknown origin observed in the cores of some galaxy clusters—in a statistical sample of 58 clusters drawn from the Planck Sunyaev–Zel’dovich cluster catalog using a mass cut ( M {sub 500} > 6 × 10{sup 14} M {sub ⊙}). We supplement our statistical sample with a similarly sized nonstatistical sample mostly consisting of clusters in the ACCEPT X-ray catalog with suitable X-ray and radio data, which includes lower-mass clusters. Where necessary (for nine clusters), we reanalyzed the Very Large Array archival radio data to determine whether a minihalo is present.more » Our total sample includes all 28 currently known and recently discovered radio minihalos, including six candidates. We classify clusters as cool-core or non-cool-core according to the value of the specific entropy floor in the cluster center, rederived or newly derived from the Chandra X-ray density and temperature profiles where necessary (for 27 clusters). Contrary to the common wisdom that minihalos are rare, we find that almost all cool cores—at least 12 out of 15 (80%)—in our complete sample of massive clusters exhibit minihalos. The supplementary sample shows that the occurrence of minihalos may be lower in lower-mass cool-core clusters. No minihalos are found in non-cool cores or “warm cores.” These findings will help test theories of the origin of minihalos and provide information on the physical processes and energetics of the cluster cores.« less

Drilling systems for extraterrestrial subsurface exploration.

PubMed

Zacny, K; Bar-Cohen, Y; Brennan, M; Briggs, G; Cooper, G; Davis, K; Dolgin, B; Glaser, D; Glass, B; Gorevan, S; Guerrero, J; McKay, C; Paulsen, G; Stanley, S; Stoker, C

2008-06-01

Drilling consists of 2 processes: breaking the formation with a bit and removing the drilled cuttings. In rotary drilling, rotational speed and weight on bit are used to control drilling, and the optimization of these parameters can markedly improve drilling performance. Although fluids are used for cuttings removal in terrestrial drilling, most planetary drilling systems conduct dry drilling with an auger. Chip removal via water-ice sublimation (when excavating water-ice-bound formations at pressure below the triple point of water) and pneumatic systems are also possible. Pneumatic systems use the gas or vaporization products of a high-density liquid brought from Earth, gas provided by an in situ compressor, or combustion products of a monopropellant. Drill bits can be divided into coring bits, which excavate an annular shaped hole, and full-faced bits. While cylindrical cores are generally superior as scientific samples, and coring drills have better performance characteristics, full-faced bits are simpler systems because the handling of a core requires a very complex robotic mechanism. The greatest constraints to extraterrestrial drilling are (1) the extreme environmental conditions, such as temperature, dust, and pressure; (2) the light-time communications delay, which necessitates highly autonomous systems; and (3) the mission and science constraints, such as mass and power budgets and the types of drilled samples needed for scientific analysis. A classification scheme based on drilling depth is proposed. Each of the 4 depth categories (surface drills, 1-meter class drills, 10-meter class drills, and deep drills) has distinct technological profiles and scientific ramifications.

Validation of the Italian version of the Clinical Outcomes in Routine Evaluation Outcome Measure (CORE-OM).

PubMed

Palmieri, Gaspare; Evans, Chris; Hansen, Vidje; Brancaleoni, Greta; Ferrari, Silvia; Porcelli, Piero; Reitano, Francesco; Rigatelli, Marco

2009-01-01

The Clinical Outcomes in Routine Evaluation--Outcome Measure (CORE-OM) was translated into Italian and tested in non-clinical (n = 263) and clinical (n = 647) samples. The translation showed good acceptability, internal consistency and convergent validity in both samples. There were large and statistically significant differences between clinical and non-clinical datasets on all scores. The reliable change criteria were similar to those for the UK referential data. Some of the clinically significant change criteria, particularly for the men, were moderately different from the UK cutting points. The Italian version of the CORE-OM showed respectable psychometric parameters. However, it seemed plausible that non-clinical and clinical distributions of self-report scores on psychopathology and functioning measures may differ by language and culture. *A good quality Italian translation of the CORE-OM, and hence the GP-CORE, CORE-10 and CORE-5 measures also, is now available for use by practitioners and anyone surveying or exploring general psychological state. The measures can be obtained from CORE-IMS or yourself and practitioners are encouraged to share anonymised data so that good clinical and non-clinical referential databases can be established for Italy.

The Effect of a Novel Movement Strategy in Decreasing ACL Risk Factors in Female Adolescent Soccer Players: A Randomized Controlled Trial

PubMed Central

Celebrini, Richard G.; Eng, Janice J.; Miller, William C.; Ekegren, Christina L.; Johnston, James D.; Depew, Thomas A.; MacIntyre, Donna L.

2015-01-01

Objective To determine the effect of a novel movement strategy incorporated within a soccer warm-up on biomechanical risk factors for ACL injury during three sport-specific movement tasks. Design Single-blind, randomized controlled clinical trial. Setting Laboratory setting. Participants 20 top-tier female teenage soccer players. Interventions Subjects were randomized to the Core Position and Control movement strategy (Core-PAC) warm-up or standard warm-up which took place prior to their regular soccer practice over a 6-week period. The Core-PAC focuses on getting the centre of mass closer to the plant foot or base of support. Main Outcome Measures Peak knee flexion angle and abduction moments during a side-hop (SH), side-cut (SC) and unanticipated side-cut (USC) task after the 6-weeks with (intervention group only) and without a reminder to use the Core-PAC strategy. Results The Core-PAC group increased peak flexion angles during the SH task (Mean difference = 6.2°, 95% CI: 1.9–10.5°, effect size = 1.01, P = 0.034) after the 6-week warm-up program without a reminder. In addition, the Core-PAC group demonstrated increased knee flexion angles for the side-cut (Mean difference = 8.5°, 95% CI: 4.8–12.2°, ES = 2.02, P = 0.001) and side-hop (Mean difference = 10.0°, 95% CI: 5.7–14.3°, ES = 1.66, P = 0.001) task after a reminder. No changes in abduction moments were found. Conclusions The results of this study suggest that the Core-PAC may be one method of modifying high-risk soccer-specific movements and can be implemented within a practical, team-based soccer warm-up. The results should be interpreted with caution due to the small sample size. PMID:24184850

Determining the Optimal Number of Core Needle Biopsy Passes for Molecular Diagnostics.

PubMed

Hoang, Nam S; Ge, Benjamin H; Pan, Lorraine Y; Ozawa, Michael G; Kong, Christina S; Louie, John D; Shah, Rajesh P

2018-03-01

The number of core biopsy passes required for adequate next-generation sequencing is impacted by needle cut, needle gauge, and the type of tissue involved. This study evaluates diagnostic adequacy of core needle lung biopsies based on number of passes and provides guidelines for other tissues based on simulated biopsies in ex vivo porcine organ tissues. The rate of diagnostic adequacy for pathology and molecular testing from lung biopsy procedures was measured for eight operators pre-implementation (September 2012-October 2013) and post-implementation (December 2013-April 2014) of a standard protocol using 20-gauge side-cut needles for ten core biopsy passes at a single academic hospital. Biopsy pass volume was then estimated in ex vivo porcine muscle, liver, and kidney using side-cut devices at 16, 18, and 20 gauge and end-cut devices at 16 and 18 gauge to estimate minimum number of passes required for adequate molecular testing. Molecular diagnostic adequacy increased from 69% (pre-implementation period) to 92% (post-implementation period) (p < 0.001) for lung biopsies. In porcine models, both 16-gauge end-cut and side-cut devices require one pass to reach the validated volume threshold to ensure 99% adequacy for molecular characterization, while 18- and 20-gauge devices require 2-5 passes depending on needle cut and tissue type. Use of 20-gauge side-cut core biopsy needles requires a significant number of passes to ensure diagnostic adequacy for molecular testing across all tissue types. To ensure diagnostic adequacy for molecular testing, 16- and 18-gauge needles require markedly fewer passes.

IMPLEMENTATION AND OPERATION OF THE REPOSITORY

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

Marcus Milling

2003-10-01

The NGDRS has facilitated 85% of cores, cuttings, and other data identified available for transfer to the public sector. Over 12 million linear feet of cores and cuttings, in addition to large numbers of paleontological samples and are now available for public use. To date, with industry contributions for program operations and data transfers, the NGDRS project has realized a 6.5 to 1 return on investment to Department of Energy funds. Large-scale transfers of seismic data have been evaluated, but based on the recommendation of the NGDRS steering committee, cores have been given priority because of the vast scale ofmore » the seismic data problem relative to the available funding. The rapidly changing industry conditions have required that the primary core and cuttings preservation strategy evolve as well. Additionally, the NGDRS clearinghouse is evaluating the viability of transferring seismic data covering the western shelf of the Florida Gulf Coast. AGI remains actively involved in working to realize the vision of the National Research Council's report of geoscience data preservation. GeoTrek has been ported to Linux and MySQL, ensuring a purely open-source version of the software. This effort is key in ensuring long-term viability of the software so that is can continue basic operation regardless of specific funding levels. Work has been on a major revision of GeoTrek, using the open-source MapServer project and its related MapScript language. This effort will address a number of key technology issues that appear to be rising for 2003, including the discontinuation of the use of Java in future Microsoft operating systems. The recent donation of BPAmoco's Houston core facility to the Texas Bureau of Economic Geology has provided substantial short-term relief of the space constraints for public repository space.« less

Impact of heat treatment on HSS cutting tool (ASTM A600) and its behaviour during machining of mild steel (ASTM A36)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Afolalu, S. A.; Abioye, O. P.; Salawu, E. Y.; Okokpujie, I. P.; Abioye, A. A.; Omotosho, O. A.; Ajayi., O. O.

2018-04-01

Carburization is one the best heat treatment that responded well to hardening with Palm Kernel Shell giving the best hardness value. This work studied the influence of carburization on HSStool(ASTM A600) and its behaviour during machining of mild steel (ASTM A36). Composition of the samples (12 pieces of 180 × 12 × 12 mm) HSS tools were checked using UV-VIS spectrometer and the tools were carburized with PKS at holding temperatures and time of 800, 850, 900, 950 °C and 60,90 120 minutes using muffle furnance. The micro structural analysis, surface and core hardnessof the treated samples gave better results than the untreated samples when checked withsoft driven and optical microscope. It wasalso observed that increase in the feed rate and depth for length of cut of 50 mm significantly reduces the wear progression and thereby gave best machining time at maximum carburizing temperature and time(950 °C / 120 minutes) when it was used to cut mild steelon the lathe machine.

Hydraulic Conductivity Measurements Barrow 2014

DOE Data Explorer

Katie McKnight; Tim Kneafsey; Craig Ulrich; Jil Geller

2015-02-22

Six individual ice cores were collected from Barrow Environmental Observatory in Barrow, Alaska, in May of 2013 as part of the Next Generation Ecosystem Experiment (NGEE). Each core was drilled from a different location at varying depths. A few days after drilling, the cores were stored in coolers packed with dry ice and flown to Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) in Berkeley, CA. 3-dimensional images of the cores were constructed using a medical X-ray computed tomography (CT) scanner at 120kV. Hydraulic conductivity samples were extracted from these cores at LBNL Richmond Field Station in Richmond, CA, in February 2014 by cutting 5 to 8 inch segments using a chop saw. Samples were packed individually and stored at freezing temperatures to minimize any changes in structure or loss of ice content prior to analysis. Hydraulic conductivity was determined through falling head tests using a permeameter [ELE International, Model #: K-770B]. After approximately 12 hours of thaw, initial falling head tests were performed. Two to four measurements were collected on each sample and collection stopped when the applied head load exceeded 25% change from the original load. Analyses were performed between 2 to 3 times for each sample. The final hydraulic conductivity calculations were computed using methodology of Das et al., 1985.

Single Piezo-Actuator Rotary-Hammering (SPaRH) Drill

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sherrit, Stewart (Inventor); Bao, Xiaoqi (Inventor); Badescu, Mircea (Inventor); Bar-Cohen, Yoseph (Inventor)

2014-01-01

A Single Piezo-Actuator Rotary-Hammering (SPaRH) Drill includes a horn actuator having high power piezoelectric materials and a flexure pre-stress to increase the actuators effectiveness. The drill is a low mass, low power, compact coring drill measuring 20-cm high by 7-cm diameter and having a total weight of 2 kg including drive electronics. Using an average power of 50-Watts, the drill basalt is expected to cut basalt at a rate of 0.2 cm/min down to depth of 10-cm and create cuttings and an intact core. The drill is expected to operate under different environments including Martian ambient (6 Torr and down to -50 degree C), and liquid nitrogen temperatures (77 K) and low pressure (<<1 Torr) to simulate lunar polar and Europa conditions. Materials expected to be sampled include Kaolinite, Saddleback Basalt, Limestone, Volcanic Breccia, Siltstone, ice, permafrost and layered rocks with different hardness.

Histograms showing variations in oil yield, water yield, and specific gravity of oil from Fischer assay analyses of oil-shale drill cores and cuttings from the Piceance Basin, northwestern Colorado

USGS Publications Warehouse

Dietrich, John D.; Brownfield, Michael E.; Johnson, Ronald C.; Mercier, Tracey J.

2014-01-01

Recent studies indicate that the Piceance Basin in northwestern Colorado contains over 1.5 trillion barrels of oil in place, making the basin the largest known oil-shale deposit in the world. Previously published histograms display oil-yield variations with depth and widely correlate rich and lean oil-shale beds and zones throughout the basin. Histograms in this report display oil-yield data plotted alongside either water-yield or oil specific-gravity data. Fischer assay analyses of core and cutting samples collected from exploration drill holes penetrating the Eocene Green River Formation in the Piceance Basin can aid in determining the origins of those deposits, as well as estimating the amount of organic matter, halite, nahcolite, and water-bearing minerals. This report focuses only on the oil yield plotted against water yield and oil specific gravity.

Cyclic deformations in the Opalinus clay: a laboratory experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huber, Emanuel; Huggenberger, Peter; Möri, Andreas; Meier, Edi

2015-04-01

The influence of tunnel climate on deformation cycles of joint openings and closings is often observed immediately after excavation. At the EZ-B niche in the Mt. Terri rock laboratory (Switzerland), a cyclic deformation of the shaly Opalinus clay has been monitored for several years. The deformation cycles of the joints parallel to the clay bedding planes correlate with seasonal variations in relative humidity of the air in the niche. In winter, when the relative humidity is the lowest (down to 65%), the joints open as the clay volume decreases, whereas they tend to close in the summer when the relative humidity reaches up to 100%. Furthermore, in situ measurements have shown the trend of an increasingly smaller aperture of joints with time. A laboratory experiment was carried out to reproduce the observed cyclic deformation in a climate chamber using a core sample of Opalinus clay. The main goal of the experiment was to investigate the influence of the relative humidity on the deformation of the Opalinus clay while excluding the in situ effects (e.g. confining stress). The core sample of Opalinus clay was put into a closed ended PVC tube and the space between the sample and the tube was filled with resin. Then, the sample (size: 28 cm × 14 cm × 6.5 cm) was cut in half lengthways and the open end was cut, so that the half-core sample could move in one direction. The mounted sample was exposed to wetting and drying cycles in a climate chamber. Air temperature, air humidity and sample weight were continuously recorded. Photographs taken at regular time intervals by a webcam allowed the formation/deformation of cracks on the surface of the sample to be monitored. A crackmeter consisting of a double-plate capacitor attached to the core sample was developed to measure the dynamics of the crack opening and closing. Preliminary results show that: - Deformation movements during different climate cycles can be visualized with the webcam - The crackmeter signal gives a relatively precise response for relative humidity below 80% - The sample weight variations are clearly related to the climatic conditions (temperature and relative humidity) and associated with deformation of the sample (widening and narrowing of the cracks) - The control of the relative humidity in the climate chamber turned out to be difficult in a laboratory without climate conditioning, especially during summer time

Sample Acqusition Drilling System for the the Resource Prospector Mission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zacny, K.; Paulsen, G.; Quinn, J.; Smith, J.; Kleinhenz, J.

2015-12-01

The goal of the Lunar Resource Prospector Mission (RPM) is to capture and identify volatiles species within the top meter of the lunar regolith. The RPM drill has been designed to 1. Generate cuttings and place them on the surface for analysis by the the Near InfraRed Volatiles Spectrometer Subsystem (NIRVSS), and 2. Capture cuttings and transfer them to the Oxygen and Volatile Extraction Node (OVEN) coupled with the Lunar Advanced Volatiles Analysis (LAVA) subsystem. The RPM drill is based on the Mars Icebreaker drill developed for capturing samples of ice and ice cemented ground on Mars. The drill weighs approximately 10 kg and is rated at ~300 Watt. It is a rotary-percussive, fully autonomous system designed to capture cuttings for analysis. The drill consists of: 1. Rotary-Percussive Drill Head, 2. Sampling Auger, 3. Brushing station, 4. Z-stage, 5. Deployment stage. To reduce sample handling complexity, the drill auger is designed to capture cuttings as opposed to cores. High sampling efficiency is possible through a dual design of the auger. The lower section has deep and low pitch flutes for retaining of cuttings. The upper section has been designed to efficiently move the cuttings out of the hole. The drill uses a "bite" sampling approach where samples are captured in ~10 cm intervals. The first generation drill was tested in Mars chamber as well as in Antarctica and the Arctic. It demonstrated drilling at 1-1-100-100 level (1 meter in 1 hour with 100 Watt and 100 N Weight on Bit) in ice, ice cemented ground, soil, and rocks. The second generation drill was deployed on a Carnegie Mellon University rover, called Zoe, and tested in Atacama in 2012. The tests demonstrated fully autonomous sample acquisition and delivery to a carousel. The third generation drill was tested in NASA GRC's vacuum chamber, VF13, at 10-5 torr and approximately 200 K. It demonstrated successful capture and transfer of icy samples to a crucible. The drill has been modified and integrated onto the NASA JSC RPM rover. It has been undergoing testing in a lab and in the field during the Summer of 2015.

Drilling and Caching Architecture for the Mars2020 Mission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zacny, K.

2013-12-01

We present a Sample Acquisition and Caching (SAC) architecture for the Mars2020 mission and detail how the architecture meets the sampling requirements described in the Mars2020 Science Definition Team (SDT) report. The architecture uses 'One Bit per Core' approach. Having dedicated bit for each rock core allows a reduction in the number of core transfer steps and actuators and this reduces overall mission risk. It also alleviates the bit life problem, eliminates cross contamination, and aids in hermetic sealing. An added advantage is faster drilling time, lower power, lower energy, and lower Weight on Bit (which reduces Arm preload requirements). To enable replacing of core samples, the drill bits are based on the BigTooth bit design. The BigTooth bit cuts a core diameter slightly smaller than the imaginary hole inscribed by the inner surfaces of the bits. Hence the rock core could be much easier ejected along the gravity vector. The architecture also has three additional types of bits that allow analysis of rocks. Rock Abrasion and Brushing Bit (RABBit) allows brushing and grinding of rocks in the same was as Rock Abrasion Tool does on MER. PreView bit allows viewing and analysis of rock core surfaces. Powder and Regolith Acquisition Bit (PRABit) captures regolith and rock powder either for in situ analysis or sample return. PRABit also allows sieving capabilities. The architecture can be viewed here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_-hOO4-zDtE

Survey of specific gravity of eight Maine conifers

Treesearch

Harold E. Wahlgren; Gregory Baker; Robert R. Maeglin; Arthur C. Hart

1968-01-01

This analysis of a mass increment core sampling of eight coniferous species of Maine characterizes specific gravity for each of the species. No clear-cut relationships of specific gravity to forest type, stand density class, height class, or tree diameter at breast height were found. Included in the data are the species average specific gravity and the range. These...

Results of Laboratory Tests on Surficial Sediments from the Upper Continental Slope Northern Gulf of Mexico

USGS Publications Warehouse

Booth, James S.

1979-01-01

The purpose of this report is to present the results of geo­technical, textural, and chemical tests performed on samples from the upper Continental Slope, northern Gulf of Mexico.The samples were collected by a piston corer up to 12 m (40 ft.} in length with a head weight of 908 kg (one ton}. The inside diameter of the C. A. B. liner was 89 mm (3.5 inches}. Upon retrieval, the cores were cut in 1.5 m sections, examined for evidence of disturbance, then, if in acceptable condition, were sealed and placed in their in situ vertical position in a refrigerated van. Once ashore, the sections were opened, sealed with wax, recapped and stored as before.The cores were split lengthwise for analysis. One half of the core was X-rayed and the radiograph was carefully examined as a further check for disturbance. This half was then archived. The other half of the core was used for the laboratory work.

Thermal maturity and organic composition of Pennsylvanian coals and carbonaceous shales, north-central Texas: Implications for coalbed gas potential

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hackley, P.C.; Guevara, E.H.; Hentz, T.F.; Hook, R.W.

2009-01-01

Thermal maturity was determined for about 120 core, cuttings, and outcrop samples to investigate the potential for coalbed gas resources in Pennsylvanian strata of north-central Texas. Shallow (< 600??m; 2000??ft) coal and carbonaceous shale cuttings samples from the Middle-Upper Pennsylvanian Strawn, Canyon, and Cisco Groups in Archer and Young Counties on the Eastern Shelf of the Midland basin (northwest and downdip from the outcrop) yielded mean random vitrinite reflectance (Ro) values between about 0.4 and 0.8%. This range of Ro values indicates rank from subbituminous C to high volatile A bituminous in the shallow subsurface, which may be sufficient for early thermogenic gas generation. Near-surface (< 100??m; 300??ft) core and outcrop samples of coal from areas of historical underground coal mining in the region yielded similar Ro values of 0.5 to 0.8%. Carbonaceous shale core samples of Lower Pennsylvanian strata (lower Atoka Group) from two deeper wells (samples from ~ 1650??m; 5400??ft) in Jack and western Wise Counties in the western part of the Fort Worth basin yielded higher Ro values of about 1.0%. Pyrolysis and petrographic data for the lower Atoka samples indicate mixed Type II/Type III organic matter, suggesting generated hydrocarbons may be both gas- and oil-prone. In all other samples, organic material is dominated by Type III organic matter (vitrinite), indicating that generated hydrocarbons should be gas-prone. Individual coal beds are thin at outcrop (< 1??m; 3.3??ft), laterally discontinuous, and moderately high in ash yield and sulfur content. A possible analog for coalbed gas potential in the Pennsylvanian section of north-central Texas occurs on the northeast Oklahoma shelf and in the Cherokee basin of southeastern Kansas, where contemporaneous gas-producing coal beds are similar in thickness, quality, and rank.

Detection of antibodies to hepatitis B core antigen using the Abbott ARCHITECT anti-HBc assay: analysis of borderline reactive sera.

PubMed

Ollier, Laurence; Laffont, Catherine; Kechkekian, Aurore; Doglio, Alain; Giordanengo, Valérie

2008-12-01

Routine use of the automated chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay Abbott ARCHITECT anti-HBc for diagnosis of hepatitis B is limited in case of borderline reactive sera with low signal close to the cut-off index. In order to determine the significance of anti-HBc detection when borderline reactivity occurs using the ARCHITECT anti-HBc assay, a comparative study was designed. 3540 serum samples collected over a 2-month period in the hospital of Nice were examined for markers of HBV infection (HBsAg, anti-HBs and anti-HBc). One hundred seven samples with sufficient volume and with borderline reactivity by the ARCHITECT assay were tested by two other anti-HBc assays, a microparticle enzyme immunoassay (MEIA, AxSYM Core, Abbott Laboratories, IL, USA) and an enzyme linked fluorescent assay (ELFA, VIDAS Anti-HBc Total II, bioMérieux, Lyon, France). Only 46 samples were confirmed by the AxSYM and the VIDAS assays. Additional serological information linked to patient history showed that the remaining samples (61) were false positives (11), had low titer of anti-HBc antibodies (13), or were inconclusive (37). This comparative study highlighted the existence of a grey zone around the cut-off index. Confirmative results through a different immunoassay are needed to confirm the diagnosis of HBV on borderline reactive sera using the ARCHITECT anti-HBc assay.

The effect of a novel movement strategy in decreasing ACL risk factors in female adolescent soccer players

PubMed Central

Celebrini, Richard G.; Eng, Janice J.; Miller, William C.; Ekegren, Christina L.; Johnston, James D.; MacIntyre, Donna L.

2015-01-01

There is a need to investigate the effect of specific movement strategies in reducing biomechanical risk factors for ACL injury in young female athletes. The purpose of this study was 1) to determine the feasibility of implementing a novel movement strategy (Core-PAC) into a team warm-up prior to soccer training based on subject compliance and integration of the Core-PAC into the warm-up and 2) to determine whether the Core-PAC would improve peak knee flexion angles and peak abduction moments at the knee during a side-cut (SC) and an unanticipated side-cut (USC) prior to kicking a soccer ball, and a side-hop (SH) task after immediate instruction and after a four-week training program. A convenience sample of ten 14–16 year old female soccer players were instructed in the Core-PAC immediately after baseline testing and during a training program consisting of a 20-minute warm-up, two-times per week. The Core-PAC was understood and accepted by the subjects and incorporated into their warm-up activities with good compliance. After the immediate instruction, there were significant increases in peak knee flexion angles of a mean 6.4° during the SC (p = 0.001), 3.5° during the USC (p = 0.007), and 5.8° during the SH (p < 0.001) tasks. Peak knee abduction moments decreased by a mean of 0.25 Nm/kg during the SC (p < 0.03), 0.17 Nm/kg during the USC (p = 0.05), and 0.27 Nm/kg during the SH (p = 0.04) tasks. After the 4-week training program, some individuals showed improvement. The results of this study suggest that the Core-PAC may be one method of modifying high-risk movements for ACL injury such as side-cutting and single-leg landing. PMID:22210470

Publications - GMC 147 | Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical

Science.gov Websites

DGGS GMC 147 Publication Details Title: Visual kerogen and TAI data of select cuttings and core (1260 , F.F., 1989, Visual kerogen and TAI data of select cuttings and core (1260 - 8130 feet) from the Union

Publications - GMC 129 | Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical

Science.gov Websites

DGGS GMC 129 Publication Details Title: Visual kerogen and TAI data of select cuttings and core from , Visual kerogen and TAI data of select cuttings and core from the Chevron USA Inc. Akulik #1 well: Alaska

Character of High Temperature Mylonitic Shear Zones Associated with Oceanic Detachment Faults at the Ultra-Slow Mid-Cayman Rise

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marr, C.; John, B. E.; Cheadle, M. J.; German, C. R.

2014-12-01

Two well-preserved core complexes at the Mid-Cayman Rise (MCR), Mt Dent and Mt Hudson, provide an opportunity to examine the deformation history and rheology of detachment faults at an ultra-slow spreading ridge. Samples from the CAYTROUGH (1976-77) project and the Nautilus NA034 cruise (2013) were selected for detailed petrographic and microstructural study. Surface samples from Mt. Dent (near the center of the MCR) provide insight into lateral variation in footwall rock type and deformation history across a core complex in both the across and down dip directions. In contrast, sampling of Mt. Hudson (SE corner of the MCR) focuses on a high-angle, crosscutting normal fault scarp, which provides a cross section of the detachment fault system. Sampling across Mt Dent reveals that the footwall is composed of heterogeneously-distributed gabbro (47%) and peridotite (20%) with basaltic cover (33%) dominating the top of the core complex. Sampling of Mt Hudson is restricted to the normal fault scarp cutting the core complex and suggests the interior is dominated by gabbro (85% gabbro, 11% peridotite, 4% basalt). At Mt. Dent, peridotite is exposed within ~4km of the breakaway indicating that the Mt. Dent detachment does not cut Penrose-style oceanic crust. The sample set provides evidence of a full down-temperature sequence of detachment related-fault rocks, from possible granulite and clear amphibolite mylonitizatization to prehnite-pumpellyite brittle deformation. Both detachments show low-temperature brittle deformation overprinting higher temperature plastic fabrics. Fe-Ti oxide gabbro mylonites dominate the sample set, and plastic deformation of plagioclase is recorded in samples collected as near as ~4km from the inferred breakaway along the southern flank of Mt. Dent, suggesting the brittle-plastic transition was initially at ~3km depth. Recovered samples suggest strain associated with both detachment systems is localized into discrete mylonitic shear zones (~1-10cm thick), implying that the plastic portion of the fault consists of a broad zone of thin, anastomosing shear zones. Concentrations of Ti-rich magmatic hornblende and interstitial Fe-Ti oxides in the high strain horizons are consistent with the lowermost part of the fault(s) localizing in the margins of the mush zone of a shallow magma chamber.

Core Across the San Andreas Fault at SAFOD - Photographs, Physical Properties Data, and Core-Handling Procedures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kirschner, D. L.; Carpenter, B.; Keenan, T.; Sandusky, E.; Sone, H.; Ellsworth, B.; Hickman, S.; Weiland, C.; Zoback, M.

2007-12-01

Core samples were obtained that cross three faults of the San Andreas Fault Zone north of Parkfield, California, during the summer of 2007. The cored intervals were obtained by sidetracking off the SAFOD Main Hole that was rotary drilled across the San Andreas in 2005. The first cored interval targeted the pronounced lithologic boundary between the Salinian terrane and the Great Valley and Franciscan formations. Eleven meters of pebbly conglomerate (with minor amounts of fine sands and shale) were obtained from 3141 to 3152 m (measured depth, MD). The two conglomerate units are heavily fractured with many fractures having accommodated displacement. Within this cored interval, there is a ~1m zone with highly sheared, fine-grained material, possibly ultracataclasite in part. The second cored interval crosses a creeping segment of a fault that has been deforming the cemented casing of the adjacent Main Hole. This cored interval sampled the fault 100 m above a seismogenic patch of M2 repeating earthquakes. Thirteen meters of core were obtained across this fault from 3186 to 3199 m (MD). This fault, which is hosted primarily in siltstones and shales, contains a serpentinite body embedded in a highly sheared shale and serpentinite-bearing fault gouge unit. The third cored interval crosses a second creeping fault that has also been deforming the cemented casing of the Main Hole. This fault, which is the most rapidly shearing fault in the San Andreas fault zone based on casing deformation, contains multiple fine- grained clay-rich fault strands embedded in highly sheared shales and lesser deformed sandstones. Initial processing of the cores was carried out at the drill site. Each core came to the surface in 9 meter-long aluminum core barrels. These were cut into more manageable three-foot sections. The quarter-inch-thick aluminum liner of each section was cut and then split apart to reveal the 10 cm diameter cores. Depending on the fragility and porosity of the rock, the drilling fluid was removed either by washing with dilute calcium chloride brine (to approximately match the salinity of the formation fluids) or by gently scraping away drilling mud on the core surface. Once cleaned, each core section was photographed to very high resolution on a Geotek Multi- Sensor Core Logging (MSCL) system. This system was also used to determine the bulk density and magnetic susceptibility of each section. The 25 MB high-resolution photographs and the raw and processed physical properties data were then uploaded to the ICDP web server in Potsdam for public access (http://safod.icdp- online.org). The cores will be archived at the Gulf Coast Repository of the Integrated Ocean Drilling Program in College Station, TX. The MSCL photographs, physical property measurements, and other related data, such as geophysical logs, will be integrated using CoreWall, and will be on display at the meeting. All samples, data, and imagery are available to the science community.

Rolling-Tooth Core Breakoff and Retention Mechanism

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Badescu, Mircea; Bickler, Donald B.; Sherrit, Stewart; Bar-Cohen, Yoseph; Bao, Xiaoqi; Hudson, Nicolas H.

2011-01-01

Sampling cores requires the controlled breakoff of the core at a known location with respect to the drill end. An additional problem is designing a mechanism that can be implemented at a small scale that is robust and versatile enough to be used for a variety of core samples. This design consists of a set of tubes (a drill tube and an inner tube) and a rolling element (rolling tooth). An additional tube can be used as a sample tube. The drill tube and the inner tube have longitudinal holes with the axes offset from the axis of each tube. The two eccentricities are equal. The inner tube fits inside the drill tube, and the sample tube fits inside the inner tube. While drilling, the two tubes are positioned relative to each other such that the sample tube is aligned with the drill tube axis and core. The drill tube includes teeth and flutes for cuttings removal. The inner tube includes, at the base, the rolling element implemented as a wheel on a shaft in an eccentric slot. An additional slot in the inner tube and a pin in the drill tube limit the relative motion of the two tubes. While drilling, the drill assembly rotates relative to the core and forces the rolling tooth to stay hidden in the slot along the inner tube wall. When the drilling depth has been reached, the drill bit assembly is rotated in the opposite direction, and the rolling tooth is engaged and penetrates into the core. Depending on the strength of the created core, the rolling tooth can score, lock the inner tube relative to the core, start the eccentric motion of the inner tube, and break the core. The tooth and the relative position of the two tubes can act as a core catcher or core-retention mechanism as well. The design was made to fit the core and hole parameters produced by an existing bit; the parts were fabricated and a series of demonstration tests were performed. This invention is potentially applicable to sample return and in situ missions to planets such as Mars and Venus, to moons such as Titan and Europa, and to comets. It is also applicable to terrestrial applications like forensic sampling and geological sampling in the field.

Oxygen isotope exchange in rocks and minerals from the Cerro Prieto geothermal system: Indicators of temperature distribution and fluid flow

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

Williams, A.E.; Elders, W.A.

1981-01-01

Oxygen isotopic compositions have been measured in drill cuttings and core samples from more than 40 wells ranging in depth to more than 3.5 km in the Cerro Prieto geothermal field. Profiles of isotopic ratios versus sampling depths provide information on the three-dimensional distribution of temperature and fluid flow. These parameters also indicate variations in the history of hydrothermal processes in different areas of the geothermal field.

Does the moment of fiber post cutting influence on the retention to root dentin?

PubMed

Borges, Marcela G; Faria-e-Silva, André L; Santos-Filho, Paulo C F; Silva, Fernanda P; Martins, Luís R M; Menezes, Murilo de Sousa

2015-01-01

Despite several advantages associated with pre-fabricated glass-fiber posts, the coronal portion of these posts must be cut to allow their use in various clinical situations. However, cutting the cemented post can generate stress on the bonding interface and affect the bond strength. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect the of fiber post cutting on the bond strength of root canals. Sixty bovine incisor roots were included in resin cylinders with simulated periodontal ligaments. Glass-fiber posts were luted using regular resin cement RelyX ARC (3M ESPE) or self-adhesive cement RelyX Unicem (3M ESPE). The posts were cut prior to cementation, immediately after luting or after building up the core (n=10). After storage for 24 h, the samples were cut and subject to push-out testing using a mechanical testing machine (EMIC DL 2000). Data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA (resin cement x moment of post cutting) and Tukey's post hoc test (α=0.05). The moment of fiber post cutting did not affect the bond strength when Unicem was used. However, the bond strength was reduced when ARC was used and when the post was cut immediately. In conclusion, the moment of fiber post cutting may affect the retention of root canal posts when a regular resin cement is used.

High-resolution gamma ray attenuation density measurements on mining exploration drill cores, including cut cores

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ross, P.-S.; Bourke, A.

2017-01-01

Physical property measurements are increasingly important in mining exploration. For density determinations on rocks, one method applicable on exploration drill cores relies on gamma ray attenuation. This non-destructive method is ideal because each measurement takes only 10 s, making it suitable for high-resolution logging. However calibration has been problematic. In this paper we present new empirical, site-specific correction equations for whole NQ and BQ cores. The corrections force back the gamma densities to the "true" values established by the immersion method. For the NQ core caliber, the density range extends to high values (massive pyrite, 5 g/cm3) and the correction is thought to be very robust. We also present additional empirical correction factors for cut cores which take into account the missing material. These "cut core correction factors", which are not site-specific, were established by making gamma density measurements on truncated aluminum cylinders of various residual thicknesses. Finally we show two examples of application for the Abitibi Greenstone Belt in Canada. The gamma ray attenuation measurement system is part of a multi-sensor core logger which also determines magnetic susceptibility, geochemistry and mineralogy on rock cores, and performs line-scan imaging.

NATIONAL GEOSCIENCE DATA REPOSITORY SYSTEM PHASE III: IMPLEMENTATION AND OPERATION ON THE REPOSITORY

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

Marcus Milling

2001-10-01

The NGDRS has attained 72% of its targeted goal for cores and cuttings transfers, with over 12 million linear feet of cores and cuttings, in addition to large numbers of paleontological samples and are now available for public use. Additionally, large-scale transfers of seismic data have been evaluated, but based on the recommendation of the NGDRS steering committee, cores have been given priority because of the vast scale of the seismic data problem relative to the available funding. The rapidly changing industry conditions have required that the primary core and cuttings preservation strategy evolve as well. Additionally, the NGDRS clearinghousemore » is evaluating the viability of transferring seismic data covering the western shelf of the Florida Gulf Coast. AGI remained actively involved in assisting the National Research Council with background materials and presentations for their panel convened to study the data preservation issue. A final report of the panel is expected in early 2002. GeoTrek has been ported to Linux and MySQL, ensuring a purely open-source version of the software. This effort is key in ensuring long-term viability of the software so that is can continue basic operation regardless of specific funding levels. Work has commenced on a major revision of GeoTrek, using the open-source MapServer project and its related MapScript language. This effort will address a number of key technology issues that appear to be rising for 2002, including the discontinuation of the use of Java in future Microsoft operating systems. Discussions have been held regarding establishing potential new public data repositories, with hope for final determination in 2002.« less

NATIONAL GEOSCIENCE DATA REPOSITORY SYSTEM PHASE III: IMPLEMENTATION AND OPERATION OF THE REPOSITORY

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

Marcus Milling

2003-04-01

The NGDRS has facilitated 85% of cores, cuttings, and other data identified available for transfer to the public sector. Over 12 million linear feet of cores and cuttings, in addition to large numbers of paleontological samples and are now available for public use. To date, with industry contributions for program operations and data transfers, the NGDRS project has realized a 6.5 to 1 return on investment to Department of Energy funds. Large-scale transfers of seismic data have been evaluated, but based on the recommendation of the NGDRS steering committee, cores have been given priority because of the vast scale ofmore » the seismic data problem relative to the available funding. The rapidly changing industry conditions have required that the primary core and cuttings preservation strategy evolve as well. Additionally, the NGDRS clearinghouse is evaluating the viability of transferring seismic data covering the western shelf of the Florida Gulf Coast. AGI remains actively involved in working to realize the vision of the National Research Council's report of geoscience data preservation. GeoTrek has been ported to Linux and MySQL, ensuring a purely open-source version of the software. This effort is key in ensuring long-term viability of the software so that is can continue basic operation regardless of specific funding levels. Work has commenced on a major revision of GeoTrek, using the open-source MapServer project and its related MapScript language. This effort will address a number of key technology issues that appear to be rising for 2002, including the discontinuation of the use of Java in future Microsoft operating systems. Discussions have been held regarding establishing potential new public data repositories, with hope for final determination in 2002.« less

NATIONAL GEOSCIENCE DATA REPOSITORY SYSTEM PHASE III: IMPLEMENTATION AND OPERATION OF THE REPOSITORY

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

Marcus Milling

2002-10-01

The NGDRS has facilitated 85% of cores, cuttings, and other data identified available for transfer to the public sector. Over 12 million linear feet of cores and cuttings, in addition to large numbers of paleontological samples and are now available for public use. To date, with industry contributions for program operations and data transfers, the NGDRS project has realized a 6.5 to 1 return on investment to Department of Energy funds. Large-scale transfers of seismic data have been evaluated, but based on the recommendation of the NGDRS steering committee, cores have been given priority because of the vast scale ofmore » the seismic data problem relative to the available funding. The rapidly changing industry conditions have required that the primary core and cuttings preservation strategy evolve as well. Additionally, the NGDRS clearinghouse is evaluating the viability of transferring seismic data covering the western shelf of the Florida Gulf Coast. AGI remains actively involved in working to realize the vision of the National Research Council's report of geoscience data preservation. GeoTrek has been ported to Linux and MySQL, ensuring a purely open-source version of the software. This effort is key in ensuring long-term viability of the software so that is can continue basic operation regardless of specific funding levels. Work has commenced on a major revision of GeoTrek, using the open-source MapServer project and its related MapScript language. This effort will address a number of key technology issues that appear to be rising for 2002, including the discontinuation of the use of Java in future Microsoft operating systems. Discussions have been held regarding establishing potential new public data repositories, with hope for final determination in 2002.« less

Physiology of fresh-cut fruits and vegetables

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The idea to pre-process fruits and vegetables in the fresh state started with fresh-cut salads and now has expanded to fresh-cut fruits and other vegetables. The fresh-cut portion of the fresh produce industry includes fruits, vegetables, sprouts, mushrooms and even herbs that are cut, cored, sliced...

Fischer Assays of Oil Shale Drill Cores and Rotary Cuttings from the Piceance Basin, Colorado - 2009 Update

USGS Publications Warehouse

Mercier, Tracey J.; Brownfield, Michael E.; Johnson, Ronald C.; Self, Jesse G.

1998-01-01

This CD-ROM includes updated files containing Fischer assays of samples of core holes and cuttings from exploration drill holes drilled in the Eocene Green River Formation in the Piceance Basin of northwestern Colorado. A database was compiled that includes more than 321,380 Fischer assays from 782 boreholes. Most of the oil yield data were analyzed by the former U.S. Bureau of Mines oil shale laboratory in Laramie, Wyoming, and some analyses were made by private laboratories. Location data for 1,042 core and rotary holes, oil and gas tests, as well as a few surface sections are listed in a spreadsheet and included in the CD-ROM. These assays are part of a larger collection of subsurface information held by the U.S. Geological Survey, including geophysical and lithologic logs, water data, and chemical and X-ray diffraction analyses having to do with the Green River oil shale deposits in Colorado, Wyoming, and Utah. Because of an increased interest in oil shale, this CD-ROM disc containing updated Fischer assay data for the Piceance Basin oil shale deposits in northwestern Colorado is being released to the public.

A database of archived drilling records of the drill cuttings piles at the North West Hutton oil platform.

PubMed

Marsh, Roy

2003-05-01

Drill cuttings piles are found underneath several hundred oil platforms in the North Sea, and are contaminated with hydrocarbons and chemical products. This study characterised the environmental risk posed by the cuttings pile at the North West Hutton (NWH) oil platform. Data on the drilling fluids and chemical products used over the platform's drilling history were transferred from archived well reports into a custom database, to which were added toxicological and safety data. Although the database contained many gaps, it established that only seven chemical products used at NWH were not in the lowest category of the Offshore Chemicals Notification Scheme, and were used in only small quantities. The study therefore supports the view that the main environmental risk posed by cuttings piles comes from hydrocarbon contamination. The (dated) well records could help future core sampling to be targeted at specific locations in the cuttings piles. Data from many platforms could also be pooled to determine generic 'discharge profiles.' Future study would benefit from the existence, in the public domain, of a standardised, 'legacy' database of chemical products.

Two-dimensional finite element heat transfer model of softwood. Part II, Macrostructural effects

Treesearch

Hongmei Gu; John F. Hunt

2006-01-01

A two-dimensional finite element model was used to study the effects of structural features on transient heat transfer in softwood lumber with various orientations. Transient core temperature was modeled for lumber samples “cut” from various locations within a simulated log. The effects of ring orientation, earlywood to latewood (E/L) ratio, and ring density were...

Laser cutting apparatus for nuclear core fuel subassembly

DOEpatents

Walch, Allan P.; Caruolo, Antonio B.

1982-02-23

The object of the invention is to provide a system and apparatus which employs laser cutting to disassemble a nuclear core fuel subassembly. The apparatus includes a gantry frame (C) which straddles the core fuel subassembly (14), an x-carriage (22) travelling longitudinally above the frame which carries a focus head assembly (D) having a vertically moving carriage (46) and a laterally moving carriage (52), a system of laser beam transferring and focusing mirrors carried by the x-carriage and focusing head assembly, and a shroud follower (F) and longitudinal follower (G) for following the shape of shroud (14) to maintain a beam focal point (44) fixed upon the shroud surface for accurate cutting.

High-power CO(2) laser with a Gauss-core resonator for high-speed cutting of thin metal sheets.

PubMed

Takenaka, Y; Nishimae, J; Tanaka, M; Motoki, Y

1997-01-01

A novel resonator, the Gauss-core resonator, based on a stable resonator configuration designed to yield a highly focusing beam operating in a large-volume TEM(00) mode, is presented. A 6.2 kW linearly polarized output beam with an M(2) factor of 1.7 is obtained experimentally for a high-power cw CO(2) laser. The capability of the Gauss-core resonator to process laser materials is also studied. We can cut 1-mm-thick mild (soft) steel with a maximum cutting speed of 58 m/min at 5.6 kW and 0.2-mm-thick steel 145 m/min at 2.8 kW.

Occurrence of coring after needle insertion through a rubber stopper: study with prednisolone acetate.

PubMed

Campagna, Raphael; Pessis, Eric; Guerini, Henri; Feydy, Antoine; Drapé, Jean-Luc

2013-02-01

To evaluate the occurrence of coring after needle insertion through the rubber stopper of prednisolone acetate vials. Two-hundred vials of prednisolone acetate were randomly distributed to two radiologists. Prednisolone acetate was drawn up through the rubber bung of the vials with an 18-gauge cutting bevelled needle and aspirated with a 5-ml syringe. The presence of coring was noted visually. We systematically put each core in a syringe refilled with 3 ml prednisolone acetate, and injected the medication through a 20-gauge spine needle. Computed tomography was performed to measure the size of each coring. Coring occurred in 21 out of 200 samples (10.5 %), and was visually detected in the syringe filled up with prednisolone in 11 of the 21 cases. Ten more occult cores were detected only after the syringes and needles were taken apart and rinsed. The core size ranged from 0.6 to 1.1 mm, and 1 of the 21 (4.7 %) cores was ejected through the 20-gauge needle. Coring can occur after the insertion of a needle through the rubber stopper of a vial of prednisolone acetate, and the resultant core can then be aspirated into the syringe.

Utility and applicability of the "Childhood Obesity Risk Evaluation" (CORE)-index in predicting obesity in childhood and adolescence in Greece from early life: the "National Action Plan for Public Health".

PubMed

Manios, Yannis; Vlachopapadopoulou, Elpis; Moschonis, George; Karachaliou, Feneli; Psaltopoulou, Theodora; Koutsouki, Dimitra; Bogdanis, Gregory; Carayanni, Vilelmine; Hatzakis, Angelos; Michalacos, Stefanos

2016-12-01

Early identification of infants being at high risk to become obese at their later childhood or adolescence can be of vital importance in any obesity prevention initiative. The aim of the present study was to examine the utility and applicability of the "Childhood Obesity Risk Evaluation (CORE)" index as a screening tool for the early prediction of obesity in childhood and adolescence. Anthropometric, socio-demographic data were collected cross-sectionally and retrospectively from a representative sample of 5946 children, and adolescents and were combined for calculating the CORE-index score. Logistic regression analyses were performed to examine the associations of the CORE-index score with obesity by gender and age group, and cut-off point analysis was also applied to identify the optimal value of the CORE-index score that differentiates obese from non-obese children. Mean CORE-index score in the total sample was 3.06 (sd 1.92) units (range 0-11 units). Each unit increase in the CORE-index score was found to be associated with a 30 % (95 % C.I. 1.24-1.36) increased likelihood for obesity in childhood or adolescence, while the optimal cut-off value of the CORE-index score that predicted obesity with the highest possible sensitivity and specificity was found to be 3.5. The present study supports the utility and applicability of the CORE-index as a screening tool for the early identification of infants that are potentially at a higher risk for becoming obese at their childhood and adolescence. This tool could be routinely used by health professionals to identify infants at high risk and provide appropriate counselling to their parents and caregivers so as to maximize the effectiveness of early obesity prevention initiatives. What is known? • Childhood obesity has reached epidemic proportions worldwide. • Certain perinatal and socio-demographic indices that were previously identified as correlates of childhood obesity in children were combined to develop the CORE-index, a screening tool that estimates obesity risk in 9-13 year-old children. What is new? • The utility and applicability of the CORE-index as screening tool can be extended to the age range of 6-15 years. • The CORE-index is a cost-effective screening tool that can assist health professionals in initiating obesity preventive measures from early life.

Identifying past petroleum exploration related drill cutting releases and influences on the marine environment and benthic foraminiferal communities, Goliat Field, SW Barents Sea, Norway.

PubMed

Aagaard-Sørensen, Steffen; Junttila, Juho; Dijkstra, Noortje

2018-04-01

The present multiproxy investigation of marine sediment cores aims at: 1) Identifying dispersion of petroleum exploration related drill cutting releases within the Goliat Field, Barents Sea in 2006/07 and 2) Assessing past and present influence of drill cuttings on the marine environment. The cores were recovered 5, 30, 60, 125 and 250m from the drill site in the eastward downstream direction. Downstream dispersion of drill cuttings is evaluated by examining sediment grain size distribution and barium (Ba), heavy metal, total organic carbon and sulphur concentrations. Dispersion of drill cuttings was limited to <125m east from the drill site. Influence of drill cutting releases on the marine environment is assessed via microfaunal analysis of primarily calcareous benthic foraminifera. The findings suggest contemporaneous physical smothering at ≤30m from the drill site, with a natural fauna reestablishing after drilling cessation indicating no long-term effect of drill cutting releases. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Identification and characterization of hydrothermally altered zones in granite by combining synthetic clay content logs with magnetic mineralogical investigations of drilled rock cuttings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meller, Carola; Kontny, Agnes; Kohl, Thomas

2014-10-01

Clay minerals as products of hydrothermal alteration significantly influence the hydraulic and mechanical properties of crystalline rock. Therefore, the localization and characterization of alteration zones by downhole measurements is a great challenge for the development of geothermal reservoirs. The magnetite bearing granite of the geothermal site in Soultz-sous-Forêts (France) experienced hydrothermal alteration during several tectonic events and clay mineral formation is especially observed in alteration halos around fracture zones. During the formation of clay minerals, magnetite was oxidized into hematite, which significantly reduces the magnetic susceptibility of the granite from ferrimagnetic to mostly paramagnetic values. The aim of this study was to find out if there exists a correlation between synthetic clay content logs (SCCLs) and measurements of magnetic susceptibility on cuttings in the granite in order to characterize their alteration mineralogy. Such a correlation has been proven for core samples of the EPS1 reference well. SCCLs were created from gamma ray and fracture density logs using a neural network. These logs can localize altered fracture zones in the GPK1-4 wells, where no core material is available. Mass susceptibility from 261 cutting samples of the wells GPK1-GPK4 was compared with the neural network derived synthetic logs. We applied a combination of temperature dependent magnetic susceptibility measurements with optical and electron microscopy, and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy to discriminate different stages of alteration. We found, that also in the granite cuttings an increasing alteration grade is characterized by an advancing oxidation of magnetite into hematite and a reduction of magnetic susceptibility. A challenge to face for the interpretation of magnetic susceptibility data from cuttings material is that extreme alteration grades can also display increased susceptibilities due to the formation of secondary magnetite. Low magnetic susceptibility can also be attributed to primary low magnetite content, if the granite facies changes. In order to interpret magnetic susceptibility from cuttings, contaminations with iron from wear debris of the drilling tools must be eliminated. Provided that the magnetic mineralogy of the granite is known in detail, this method in combination with petrographic investigations is suited to indicate and characterize hydrothermal alteration and the appearance of clay.

Sampling methods in archaeomagnetic dating: A comparison using case studies from Wörterberg, Eisenerz and Gams Valley (Austria)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Trapanese, A.; Batt, C. M.; Schnepp, E.

The aim of this research was to review the relative merits of different methods of taking samples for archaeomagnetic dating. To allow different methods to be investigated, two archaeological structures and one modern fireplace were sampled in Austria. On each structure a variety of sampling methods were used: the tube and disc techniques of Clark et al. (Clark, A.J., Tarling, D.H., Noel, M., 1988. Developments in archaeomagnetic dating in Great Britain. Journal of Archaeological Science 15, 645-667), the drill core technique, the mould plastered hand block method of Thellier, and a modification of it. All samples were oriented with a magnetic compass and sun compass, where weather conditions allowed. Approximately 12 discs, tubes, drill cores or plaster hand blocks were collected from each structure, with one mould plaster hand block being collected and cut into specimens. The natural remanent magnetisation (NRM) of the samples was measured and stepwise alternating field (AF) or thermal demagnetisation was applied. Samples were measured either in the UK or in Austria, which allowed the comparison of results between magnetometers with different sensitivity. The tubes and plastered hand block specimens showed good agreement in directional results, and the samples obtained showed good stability. The discs proved to be unreliable as both NRM and the characteristic remanent magnetisation (ChRM) distribution were very scattered. The failure of some methods may be related to the suitability of the material sampled, for example if it was disturbed before sampling, had been insufficiently heated or did not contain appropriate magnetic minerals to retain a remanent magnetisation. Caution is also recommended for laboratory procedures as the cutting of poorly consolidated specimens may disturb the material and therefore the remanent magnetisation. Criteria and guidelines were established to aid researchers in selecting the most appropriate method for a particular archaeological structure.

Surface drilling technologies for Mars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Blacic, J. D.; Rowley, J. C.; Cort, G. E.

1986-01-01

Rock drilling and coring conceptual designs for the surface activities associated with a manned Mars mission are proposed. Straightforward extensions of equipment and procedures used on Earth are envisioned for the sample coring and shallow high explosive shot holes needed for tunneling and seismic surveying. A novel rocket exhaust jet piercing method is proposed for very rapid drilling of shot holes required for explosive excavation of emergency radiation shelters. Summaries of estimated equipment masses and power requirements are provided, and the indicated rotary coring rigs are scaled from terrestrial equipment and use compressed CO2 from the Martian atmosphere for core bit cooling and cuttings removal. A mass of 120 kg and power of 3 kW(e) are estimated for a 10 m depth capability. A 100 m depth capacity core rig requires about 1150 kg and 32 km(e). The rocket exhaust jet equipment devised for shallow (3m) explosive emplacement shot holes requires no surface power beyond an electrical ignition system, and might have a 15 kg mass.

Delta13C and delta18O isotopic composition of CaCO3 measured by continuous flow isotope ratio mass spectrometry: statistical evaluation and verification by application to Devils Hole core DH-11 calcite.

PubMed

Révész, Kinga M; Landwehr, Jurate M

2002-01-01

A new method was developed to analyze the stable carbon and oxygen isotope ratios of small samples (400 +/- 20 micro g) of calcium carbonate. This new method streamlines the classical phosphoric acid/calcium carbonate (H(3)PO(4)/CaCO(3)) reaction method by making use of a recently available Thermoquest-Finnigan GasBench II preparation device and a Delta Plus XL continuous flow isotope ratio mass spectrometer. Conditions for which the H(3)PO(4)/CaCO(3) reaction produced reproducible and accurate results with minimal error had to be determined. When the acid/carbonate reaction temperature was kept at 26 degrees C and the reaction time was between 24 and 54 h, the precision of the carbon and oxygen isotope ratios for pooled samples from three reference standard materials was

High quality tissue miniarray technique using a conventional TV/radio telescopic antenna.

PubMed

Elkablawy, Mohamed A; Albasri, Abdulkader M

2015-01-01

The tissue microarray (TMA) is widely accepted as a fast and cost-effective research tool for in situ tissue analysis in modern pathology. However, the current automated and manual TMA techniques have some drawbacks restricting their productivity. Our study aimed to introduce an improved manual tissue miniarray (TmA) technique that is simple and readily applicable to a broad range of tissue samples. In this study, a conventional TV/radio telescopic antenna was used to punch tissue cores manually from donor paraffin embedded tissue blocks which were pre-incubated at 40oC. The cores were manually transferred, organized and attached to a standard block mould, and filled with liquid paraffin to construct TmA blocks without any use of recipient paraffin blocks. By using a conventional TV/radio antenna, it was possible to construct TmA paraffin blocks with variable formats of array size and number (2-mm x 42, 2.5-mm x 30, 3-mm x 24, 4-mm x 20 and 5-mm x 12 cores). Up to 2-mm x 84 cores could be mounted and stained on a standard microscopic slide by cutting two sections from two different blocks and mounting them beside each other. The technique was simple and caused minimal damage to the donor blocks. H and E and immunostained slides showed well-defined tissue morphology and array configuration. This technique is easy to reproduce, quick, inexpensive and creates uniform blocks with abundant tissues without specialized equipment. It was found to improve the stability of the cores within the paraffin block and facilitated no losses during cutting and immunostaining.

Mineralogical Characterization of the Miocene Olcese Formation, Southern San Joaquin Valley, California

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lopez, K. A.; Baron, D.; Guo, J.; Woolford, J. M.

2016-12-01

The early to middle Miocene Olcese Formation in the southern San Joaquin Valley of California consists of shallow marine shelf sands in its lower and upper parts, and non-marine, frequently pumiceous sands in its middle part, and varies in thickness up to 1800 ft. There is little known as to the origin, nature, quantity, and distribution of clay minerals throughout the formation. This study examined 95 sidewall core samples from three wells, as well as 388 cutting samples from four wells and 12 samples from 3 outcrops. Well samples were from depths between 1,800 and 4,000 ft. Qualitative and quantitative mineralogy including clay minerals of the sidewall samples and selected cutting samples was determined by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD). XRD analyses were supplemented by scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) and petrographic microscopy of selected samples. The main minerals of bulk samples include composite clay, quartz, potassium feldspar/plagioclase, calcite, and clinoptilolite. Content of composite clay varies between 17% and 51%. The clay-size fraction is predominantly composed of smectite, illite, kaolinite and chlorite with smectite being the most abundant. Smectite and clinoptilolite may be the alteration products of deeper burial of volcanic materials. The formation permeability could be significantly lowered by these authigenic minerals.

Changes in Black Carbon Deposition to Antarctica from Two Ice Core Records, A.D. 1850-2000

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bisiaux, Marion M.; Edward, Ross; McConnell, Joseph R.; Curran, Mark A. J.; VanOmmen, Tas D.; Smith, Andrew M.; Neumann, Thomas A.; Pasteris, Daniel R.; Penner, Joyce E.; Taylor, Kendrick

2012-01-01

Continuous flow analysis was based on a steady sample flow and in-line detection of BC and other chemical substances as described in McConnell et al. (2007). In the cold room, previously cut one meter ice core sticks of 3x3cm, are melted continuously on a heated melter head specifically designed to eliminate contamination from the atmosphere or by the external parts of the ice. The melted ice from the most inner part of the ice stick is continuously pumped by a peristaltic pump and carried to a clean lab by Teflon lines. The recorded signal is continuous, integrating a sample volume of about 0.05 mL, for which the temporal resolution depends on the speed of melting, ice density and snow accumulation rate at the ice core drilling site. For annual accumulation derived from the WAIS and Law Dome ice cores, we assumed 3.1 cm water equivalent uncertainty in each year's accumulation from short scale spatial variability (glaciological noise) which was determined from several measurements of annual accumulation in multiple parallel ice cores notably from the WAIS Divide ice core site (Banta et al., 2008) and from South Pole site (McConnell et al., 1997; McConnell et al., 2000). Refractory black carbon (rBC) concentrations were determined using the same method as in (Bisiaux et al., 2011) and adapted to continuous flow measurements as described by (McConnell et al., 2007). The technique uses a single particle intracavity laser induced incandescence photometer (SP2, Droplet Measurement Technologies, Boulder, Colorado) coupled to an ultrasonic nebulizer/desolvation (CETAC UT5000) Flow Injection Analysis (FIA). All analyses, sample preparation etc, were performed in a class 100 cleanroom using anti contamination "clean techniques". The samples were not acidified.

Benefaction studies on the Hasan Celebi magnetite deposit, Turkey

USGS Publications Warehouse

Pressler, Jean W.; Akar, Ali

1972-01-01

Bench-scale and semicontinuous tests were performed on surface, trench, and diamond drill core samples from the Hasan Celebi low-grade magnetite deposit to determine the optimum benefication procedures utilizing wet magnetic separation techniques. Composite core samples typically contain about 27 percent recoverable magnetite and require crushing and grinding through 1 mm in size to insure satisfactory separation of the gangue from the magnetite. Regrinding and cleaning the magnetite concentrate to 80 percent minus 150-mesh is necessary to obtain an optimum of 66 percent iron. Semicontinuous pilot-plant testing with the wet magnetic drum using the recycled middling technique indicates that as much as 83 percent of the acid-soluble iron can be recovered into a concentrate containing 66 percent iron, with minimum deleterious elements. This represents 27 weight percent of the original ore. Further tests will continue when the Maden Tetkik ve Arama Enstitusu (MTA) receives 24 tons of bulk sample from an exploratory drift and cross-cut now being driven through a section of the major reserve area.

Producing gapped-ferrite transformer cores

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mclyman, W. T.

1980-01-01

Improved manufacturing techniques make reproducible gaps and minimize cracking. Molded, unfired transformer cores are cut with thin saw and then fired. Hardened semicircular core sections are bonded together, placed in aluminum core box, and fluidized-coated. After winding is run over box, core is potted. Economical method significantly reduces number of rejects.

Rescuing the Cahoon Mine drill cores: Opportunities for modern mapping of the ca. 1.7 Ga Freedom Formation in southern Wisconsin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stanley, V.; Stewart, E.

2016-12-01

Rock cores collected during historic mineral exploration can provide invaluable data for modern analyses, but only if the samples are properly curated. The Cahoon Mine operated in Baraboo, WI during the 1910's and produced iron ore from the ca. 1.7 Ga Freedom Formation. The Freedom Formation is part of the well-known Baraboo-interval stratigraphy and is only present in the subsurface of Wisconsin (Weidman, 1904). Seventeen exploratory drill cores were rescued by Wisconsin Geological and Natural History Survey (WGNHS) from the original drying house at the mine site. The condition of the containers endangered the stratigraphic context of the collection; identifiers and depth markings were often obscured or lost. The individual core pieces were coated in residue and dust. Most of what is known about the Freedom Formation is from core logs and master's theses from the early 1900's (Leith, 1935; Schmidt, 1951). Ongoing subsurface mapping of the Baraboo-interval sediments and underlying basement of southern Wisconsin integrates new and existing subsurface and regional geophysical datasets. Mapping involves calibrating unique signals in regional aeromagnetic data to known lithology from drill core and cuttings. The Freedom Formation is especially important in this process as its iron-rich composition and regional continuity causes it to have a somewhat unique signal in regional aeromagnetic data. The Cahoon Mine cores in the WGNHS repository are the most extensive collection of physical samples from the Freedom Formation still in existence. We are in the process of curating the cores to facilitate their use in ongoing bedrock mapping. Today the cost and logistics of extensive sampling of this unit makes the existing core collection irreplaceable. We transferred the material to new containers, digitally recorded metadata, and created archival labels. As a result of this effort, the Cahoon Mine cores are now stored in a format that is physically and digitally accessible.

Geophysical, geochemical, and geological investigations of the Dunes geothermal system, Imperial Valley, California

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Elders, W. A.; Combs, J.; Coplen, T. B.; Kolesar, P.; Bird, D. K.

1974-01-01

The Dunes anomaly is a water-dominated geothermal system in the alluvium of the Salton Trough, lacking any surface expression. It was discovered by shallow-temperature gradient measurements. A 612-meter-deep test well encountered several temperature-gradient reversals, with a maximum of 105 C at 114 meters. The program involves surface geophysics, including electrical, gravity, and seismic methods, down-hole geophysics and petrophysics of core samples, isotopic and chemical studies of water samples, and petrological and geochemical studies of the cores and cuttings. The aim is (1) to determine the source and temperature history of the brines, (2) to understand the interaction between the brines and rocks, and (3) to determine the areal extent, nature, origin, and history of the geothermal system. These studies are designed to provide better definition of exploration targets for hidden geothermal anomalies and to contribute to improved techniques of exploration and resource assessment.

Wireline-rotary air coring of the Bandelier Tuff, Los Alamos, New Mexico

USGS Publications Warehouse

Teasdale, W.E.; Pemberton, R.R.

1984-01-01

This paper describes experiments using wireline-rotary air-coring techniques conducted in the Bandelier Tuff using a modified standard wireline core-barrel system. The modified equipment was used to collect uncontaminated cores of unconsolidated ash and indurated tuff at Los Alamos, New Mexico. Core recovery obtained from the 210-foot deep test hole was about 92 percent. A standard HQ-size, triple-tube wireline core barrel (designed for the passage of liquid drilling fluids) was modified for air coring as follows: (1) Air passages were milled in the latch body part of the head assembly; (2) the inside dimension of the outer core barrel tube was machined and honed to provide greater clearance between the inner and outer barrels; (3) oversized reaming devices were added to the outer core barrel and the coring bit to allow more clearance for air and cuttings return; (4) the eight discharge ports in the coring bit were enlarged. To control airborne-dust pollution, a dust-and-cuttings discharge subassembly, designed and built by project personnel, was used. (USGS)

Improved transformer-winding method

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mclyman, W. T.

1978-01-01

Proposed technique using special bobbin and fixture to wind copper wire directly on core eliminates need core cut prior to assembly. Application of technique could result in production of quieter core with increased permeability and no localized heating.

The Damage and Geochemical Signature of a Crustal Scale Strike-Slip Fault Zone

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gomila, R.; Mitchell, T. M.; Arancibia, G.; Jensen Siles, E.; Rempe, M.; Cembrano, J. M.; Faulkner, D. R.

2013-12-01

Fluid-flow migration in the upper crust is strongly controlled by fracture network permeability and connectivity within fault zones, which can lead to fluid-rock chemical interaction represented as mineral precipitation in mesh veins and/or mineralogical changes (alteration) of the host rock. While the dimensions of fault damage zones defined by fracture intensity is beginning to be better understood, how such dimensions compare to the size of alteration zones is less well known. Here, we show quantitative structural and chemical analyses as a function of distance from a crustal-scale strike-slip fault in the Atacama Fault System, Northern Chile, to compare fault damage zone characteristics with its geochemical signature. The Jorgillo Fault (JF) is a ca. 18 km long NNW striking strike-slip fault cutting Mesozoic rocks with sinistral displacement of ca. 4 km. In the study area, the JF cuts through orthogranulitic and gabbroic rocks at the west (JFW) and the east side (JFE), respectively. A 200 m fault perpendicular transect was mapped and sampled for structural and XRF analyses of the core, damage zone and protolith. The core zone consists of a ca. 1 m wide cataclasite zone bounded by two fault gouge zones ca. 40 cm. The damage zone width defined by fracture density is ca. 50 m wide each side of the core. The damage zone in JFW is characterized by NW-striking subvertical 2 cm wide cataclastic rocks and NE-striking milimetric open fractures. In JFE, 1-20 mm wide chlorite, quartz-epidote and quartz-calcite veins, cut the gabbro. Microfracture analysis in JFW reveal mm-wide cataclasitic/ultracataclasitic bands with clasts of protolith and chlorite orientated subparallel to the JF in the matrix, calcite veins in a T-fractures orientation, and minor polidirectional chlorite veins. In JFE, chlorite filled conjugate fractures with syntaxial growth textures and evidence for dilational fracturing processes are seen. Closest to the core, calcite veins crosscut chlorite veins. Whole-rock XRF analyses show Al and Ca content decrease with increasing Si, whereas Na increases towards the core. This can be interpreted as compositional changes of plagioclase to albite-rich ones due to chloritic-propylitic alteration. In the damage zone, LOI increases towards the core but decreases inside of it. This is explained by H2O-rich clays and gypsum in the fault core boundary represented as fault gouge zones whereas in the cataclastic core zone, the decrease in LOI is explained by epidote. Our results show the JF had an evolving permeability structure where a cataclasite-rich core is formed at an early stage, and then a gouge-bounded core is developed which acted as a barrier to fluid from east to west of the fault.

Fate of Shiga toxin-producing O157:H7 and non-O157:H7 Escherichia coli cells within blade-tenderized beef steaks after cooking on a commercial open-flame gas grill.

PubMed

Luchansky, John B; Porto-Fett, Anna C S; Shoyer, Bradley A; Call, Jeffrey E; Schlosser, Wayne; Shaw, William; Bauer, Nathan; Latimer, Heejeong

2012-01-01

We compared the fate of cells of both Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli O157:H7 (ECOH) and Shiga toxin-producing non-O157:H7 E. coli (STEC) in blade-tenderized steaks after tenderization and cooking on a gas grill. In phase I, beef subprimal cuts were inoculated on the lean side with about 5.5 log CFU/g of a five-strain mixture of ECOH or STEC and then passed once through a mechanical blade tenderizer with the lean side facing up. In each of two trials, 10 core samples were removed from each of two tenderized subprimals and cut into six consecutive segments starting from the inoculated side. Ten total cores also were obtained from two nontenderized (control) subprimals, but only segment 1 (the topmost segment) was sampled. The levels of ECOH and STEC recovered from segment 1 were about 6.0 and 5.3 log CFU/g, respectively, for the control subprimals and about 5.7 and 5.0 log CFU/g, respectively, for the tenderized subprimals. However, both ECOH and STEC behaved similarly in terms of translocation, and cells of both pathogen cocktails were recovered from all six segments of the cores obtained from tenderized subprimals, albeit at lower levels in segments 2 to 6 than those found in segment 1. In phase II, steaks (2.54 and 3.81 cm thick) cut from tenderized subprimals were subsequently cooked (three steaks per treatment) on a commercial open-flame gas grill to internal temperatures of 48.9, 54.4, 60.0, 65.6, and 71.1°C. Regardless of temperature or thickness, we observed 2.0- to 4.1-log and 1.5- to 4.5-log reductions in ECOH and STEC levels, respectively. Both ECOH and STEC behaved similarly in response to heat, in that cooking eliminated significant numbers of both pathogen types; however, some survivors were recovered due, presumably, to uneven heating of the blade-tenderized steaks.

Effects of a dynamic core stability program on the biomechanics of cutting maneuvers: A randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Whyte, E F; Richter, C; O'Connor, S; Moran, K A

2018-02-01

Deficits in trunk control predict ACL injuries which frequently occur during high-risk activities such as cutting. However, no existing trunk control/core stability program has been found to positively affect trunk kinematics during cutting activities. This study investigated the effectiveness of a 6-week dynamic core stability program (DCS) on the biomechanics of anticipated and unanticipated side and crossover cutting maneuvers. Thirty-one male, varsity footballers participated in this randomized controlled trial. Three-dimensional trunk and lower limb biomechanics were captured in a motion analysis laboratory during the weight acceptance phase of anticipated and unanticipated side and crossover cutting maneuvers at baseline and 6-week follow-up. The DCS group performed a DCS program three times weekly for 6 weeks in a university rehabilitation room. Both the DCS and control groups concurrently completed their regular practice and match play. Statistical parametric mapping and repeated measures analysis of variance were used to determine any group (DCS vs control) by time (pre vs post) interactions. The DCS resulted in greater internal hip extensor (P=.017, η 2 =0.079), smaller internal knee valgus (P=.026, η 2 =0.076), and smaller internal knee external rotator moments (P=.041, η 2 =0.066) during anticipated side cutting compared with the control group. It also led to reduced posterior ground reaction forces for all cutting activities (P=.015-.030, η 2 =0.074-0.105). A 6-week DCS program did not affect trunk kinematics, but it did reduce a small number of biomechanical risk factors for ACL injury, predominantly during anticipated side cutting. A DCS program could play a role in multimodal ACL injury prevention programs. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

IODP Expedition 335: Deep Sampling in ODP Hole 1256D

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Teagle, D. A. H.; Ildefonse, B.; Blum, P.; IODP Expedition 335 Scientists, the

2012-04-01

Observations of the gabbroic layers of untectonized ocean crust are essential to test theoretical models of the accretion of new crust at mid-ocean ridges. Integrated Ocean Drilling Program (IODP) Expedition 335 ("Superfast Spreading Rate Crust 4") returned to Ocean Drilling Program (ODP) Hole 1256D with the intention of deepening this reference penetration of intact ocean crust a significant distance (~350 m) into cumulate gabbros. Three earlier cruises to Hole 1256D (ODP 206, IODP 309/312) have drilled through the sediments, lavas, and dikes and 100 m into a complex dike-gabbro transition zone. Operations on IODP Expedition 335 proved challenging throughout, with almost three weeks spent re-opening and securing unstable sections of the hole. When coring commenced, the comprehensive destruction of the coring bit required further remedial operations to remove junk and huge volumes of accumulated drill cuttings. Hole-cleaning operations using junk baskets were successful, and they recovered large irregular samples that document a hitherto unseen sequence of evolving geological conditions and the intimate coupling between temporally and spatially intercalated intrusive, hydrothermal, contact-metamorphic, partial melting, and retrogressive processes. Hole 1256D is now clean of junk, and it has been thoroughly cleared of the drill cuttings that hampered operations during this and previous expeditions. At the end of Expedition 335, we briefly resumed coring before undertaking cementing operations to secure problematic intervals. To ensure the greatest scientific return from the huge efforts to stabilize this primary ocean lithosphere reference site, it would be prudent to resume the deepening of Hole 1256D in the nearest possible future while it is open to full depth. doi:10.2204/iodp.sd.13.04.2011

Regional characterization and resource evaluation of Paleocene and Eocene coal-bearing rocks in Pakistan

USGS Publications Warehouse

Durrani, N.A.; Warwick, Peter D.

1991-01-01

Field work drilling, and other related studies carried out from 1985 to 1988 to assess the quantity and quality of the coal resources of southern Sindh. Sixty-eight holes drilled in the Lakhra/Jherruck, Thatta, and Indus East coal fields indicate that presently known and mined coal fields in southern Sindh are not isolated coal occurrences. Rather, much of southern Sindh, including the Thar Desert, is underlain by strata that contain coal beds.More than 400 core and mine samples were collected for proximate and ultimate analysis and determination of major, minor and trace elements; also, lithologie logs were prepared from description of rock cuttings and core. Original coal resources of 1,080 million tones have been estimated for 7 out of 9 coal zones in parts of the Lakhra area, where coal-bed thicknesses range from a few centimeters to 5 m. In the Sonda/Jherruk area, 3,700 million tones of coal have been identified, the thickest coal bed intercepted being 6.3 meters. The apparent rank of the coal in these fields ranges from lignite A to sub-bituminous C. Averaged analytical results on an as received basis indicate the coal beds contain 28.4 % moisture, 18,3 % ash, 4.7 % sulfur, 25,2 % fixed carbon, 27.9 % volatile matter, and 33.1% oxygen. Average calorific value for Lakhra coal samples is about 3,660 Kcal/kg, whereas that of Sonda/Jherruk samples is about 3,870 Kcal/kg. Geophysical logs were obtained for the drill holes, and cores and rock cuttings are available from the GSP for further study and reference.The second phase of the project began in 1987 with surface exploration in the Salt Range coal field of Punjab Province, the Sor Range and Khost-Sharig-Harnai coal fields of Baluchistan, and the Makarwal and Cherat coal fields of NWFP. These are briefly discussed here.

Geology and geochemistry of samples from Los Alamos National Laboratory HDR Well EE-2, Fenton Hill, New Mexico

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

Laney, R.; Laughlin, A.W.; Aldrich, M.J. Jr.

1981-07-01

Petrologic, geochemical, and structural analyses of cores and cuttings obtained from 3000 to 4389-m true vertical depth in drill hole EE-2 indicate that this deeper part of the Precambrian section at Fenton Hill, New Mexico is composed primarily of a very heterogeneous and structurally anisotropic metamorphic complex, locally intruded by dikes and sills of granodioritic and monzogranitic composition. In this borehole none of these igneous bodies approach in size the 335-m-thick biotite-granodiorite body encountered at 2591-m depth beneath Fenton Hill in the other two drill holes. Contacts between the igneous and metamorphic rocks range from sharp and discordant to gradational.more » Analysis of cuttings indicates that clay-rich alteration zones are relatively common in the openhole portion of EE-2. These zones average about 20 m in thickness. Fracture sets in the Precambrian basement rock intersected by the EE-2 well bore mostly trend northeast and are steeply dipping to vertical; however, one of the sets dips gently to the northwest. Slickensided fault planes are present in a core (No.5) taken from a true vertical depth of 4195 m. Available core orientation data and geologic inference suggest that the faults dip steeply and trend between N.42/sup 0/ and 59/sup 0/E.« less

Sample Acquisition and Caching architecture for the Mars Sample Return mission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zacny, K.; Chu, P.; Cohen, J.; Paulsen, G.; Craft, J.; Szwarc, T.

This paper presents a Mars Sample Return (MSR) Sample Acquisition and Caching (SAC) study developed for the three rover platforms: MER, MER+, and MSL. The study took into account 26 SAC requirements provided by the NASA Mars Exploration Program Office. For this SAC architecture, the reduction of mission risk was chosen by us as having greater priority than mass or volume. For this reason, we selected a “ One Bit per Core” approach. The enabling technology for this architecture is Honeybee Robotics' “ eccentric tubes” core breakoff approach. The breakoff approach allows the drill bits to be relatively small in diameter and in turn lightweight. Hence, the bits could be returned to Earth with the cores inside them with only a modest increase to the total returned mass, but a significant decrease in complexity. Having dedicated bits allows a reduction in the number of core transfer steps and actuators. It also alleviates the bit life problem, eliminates cross contamination, and aids in hermetic sealing. An added advantage is faster drilling time, lower power, lower energy, and lower Weight on Bit (which reduces Arm preload requirements). Drill bits are based on the BigTooth bit concept, which allows re-use of the same bit multiple times, if necessary. The proposed SAC consists of a 1) Rotary-Percussive Core Drill, 2) Bit Storage Carousel, 3) Cache, 4) Robotic Arm, and 5) Rock Abrasion and Brushing Bit (RABBit), which is deployed using the Drill. The system also includes PreView bits (for viewing of cores prior to caching) and Powder bits for acquisition of regolith or cuttings. The SAC total system mass is less than 22 kg for MER and MER+ size rovers and less than 32 kg for the MSL-size rover.

Application of chlorophyll fluorescence imaging and hyperspectral imaging in evaluation of decay in fresh-cut lettuce

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) is commercially the most popular leafy vegetable whose leaves are usually consumed raw. Cleaned, cored, and chopped (fresh-cut) lettuce is a desirable, but highly perishable product. Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) has been introduced to maintain quality of fresh-cut ...

δ13C and δ18O isotopic composition of CaCO3 measured by continuous flow isotope ratio mass spectrometry: statistical evaluation and verification by application to Devils Hole core DH-11 calcite

USGS Publications Warehouse

Revesz, Kinga M.; Landwehr, Jurate M.

2002-01-01

A new method was developed to analyze the stable carbon and oxygen isotope ratios of small samples (400 ± 20 µg) of calcium carbonate. This new method streamlines the classical phosphoric acid/calcium carbonate (H3PO4/CaCO3) reaction method by making use of a recently available Thermoquest-Finnigan GasBench II preparation device and a Delta Plus XL continuous flow isotope ratio mass spectrometer. Conditions for which the H3PO4/CaCO3 reaction produced reproducible and accurate results with minimal error had to be determined. When the acid/carbonate reaction temperature was kept at 26 °C and the reaction time was between 24 and 54 h, the precision of the carbon and oxygen isotope ratios for pooled samples from three reference standard materials was ≤0.1 and ≤0.2 per mill or ‰, respectively, although later analysis showed that materials from one specific standard required reaction time between 34 and 54 h for δ18O to achieve this level of precision. Aliquot screening methods were shown to further minimize the total error. The accuracy and precision of the new method were analyzed and confirmed by statistical analysis. The utility of the method was verified by analyzing calcite from Devils Hole, Nevada, for which isotope-ratio values had previously been obtained by the classical method. Devils Hole core DH-11 recently had been re-cut and re-sampled, and isotope-ratio values were obtained using the new method. The results were comparable with those obtained by the classical method with correlation = +0.96 for both isotope ratios. The consistency of the isotopic results is such that an alignment offset could be identified in the re-sampled core material, and two cutting errors that occurred during re-sampling then were confirmed independently. This result indicates that the new method is a viable alternative to the classical reaction method. In particular, the new method requires less sample material permitting finer resolution and allows automation of some processes resulting in considerable time savings. 

Handwritten character recognition using background analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tascini, Guido; Puliti, Paolo; Zingaretti, Primo

1993-04-01

The paper describes a low-cost handwritten character recognizer. It is constituted by three modules: the `acquisition' module, the `binarization' module, and the `core' module. The core module can be logically partitioned into six steps: character dilation, character circumscription, region and `profile' analysis, `cut' analysis, decision tree descent, and result validation. Firstly, it reduces the resolution of the binarized regions and detects the minimum rectangle (MR) which encloses the character; the MR partitions the background into regions that surround the character or are enclosed by it, and allows it to define features as `profiles' and `cuts;' a `profile' is the set of vertical or horizontal minimum distances between a side of the MR and the character itself; a `cut' is a vertical or horizontal image segment delimited by the MR. Then, the core module classifies the character by descending along the decision tree on the basis of the analysis of regions around the character, in particular of the `profiles' and `cuts,' and without using context information. Finally, it recognizes the character or reactivates the core module by analyzing validation test results. The recognizer is largely insensible to character discontinuity and is able to detect Arabic numerals and English alphabet capital letters. The recognition rate of a 32 X 32 pixel character is of about 97% after the first iteration, and of over 98% after the second iteration.

Anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility used to detect coring-induced sediment disturbance and filter palaeomagnetic secular variation data: IODP sites M0061 and M0062 (Baltic Sea)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Snowball, Ian; Almqvist, Bjarne; Lougheed, Bryan; Svensson, Anna; Wiers, Steffen; Herrero-Bervera, Emilio

2017-04-01

Inspired by palaeomagnetic data obtained from two sites (M0061 and M0062) cored during IODP Expedition 347 - Baltic Sea Paleoenvironment we studied the Hemsön Alloformation, which is a series of brackish water muds consisting of horizontal planar and parallel laminated (varved) silty clays free from bioturbation. We determined the anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMS) and characteristic remanence (ChRM) directions of a total of 1,102 discrete samples cut from (i) IODP cores recovered by an Advanced Piston corer and (ii) a series of six sediment cores recovered from the same sites by a Kullenberg piston corer. Systematic core splitting, sub-sampling methods and measurements were applied to all sub-samples. We experimentally tested for field-impressed AMS of these muds, in which titanomagnetite carries magnetic remanence and this test was negative. The AMS is likely determined by paramagnetic minerals. As expected for horizontally bedded sediments, the vast majority of the K1 (maximum) and K2 (intermediate) axes had inclinations close to 0 degrees and the AMS shape parameter (T) indicates an oblate fabric. The declinations of the K1 and K2 directions of the sub-samples taken from Kullenberg cores showed a wide distribution around the bedding plane, with no preferred alignment along any specimen axis. Exceptions are samples from the upper 1.5 m of some of these cores, in which the K1 and K2 directions were vertical, the K3 (minimum) axis shallow and T became prolate. We conclude that the Kullenberg corer, which penetrated the top sediments with a pressure of approximately 15 bar, occasionally under-sampled during penetration and vertically stretched the top sediments. Sub-samples from the upper sections of Kullenberg cores had relatively steep ChRM inclinations and we rejected samples that had a prolate, vertically oriented AMS ellipsoid. Surprisingly, the declinations of the K1 axis of all sub-samples taken from IODP APC core sections, which were not oriented relative to each other with respect to azimuth, clustered tightly within the 90-270 degree specimen axis (K2 is within the 0-180 degree axis). This axis is the direction across each cores' split surface (i.e. perpendicular to the "push" direction of the sub-sampling boxes). The APC cores were characterized by various degrees of downwards bending of the planar varves towards the inner surface of the core liner. We conclude that the initial hydraulic pressure applied by the APC, which was consistently above 50 bar during Expedition 347, was needlessly high and created a conical sediment structure and the distinct alignment of the magnetic susceptibility axes along specimen axes. APC core sections with marked disturbances were characterized by ChRM inclinations below 65 degrees, which is a lower limit predicted by time varying geomagnetic field models for the duration of the Hemsö Alloformation (the most recent 6000 years). We rejected samples for palaeomagnetic purposes if the K1 inclination was steeper than 10 degrees. Our study highlights the added value of measuring AMS of discrete sub-samples as an independent control of the suitability of sediments as a source of palaeomagnetic data.

Summary of results of frictional sliding studies, at confining pressures up to 6.98 kb, in selected rock materials

USGS Publications Warehouse

Summers, R.; Byerlee, J.

1977-01-01

This report is a collection of stress-strain charts which were produced by deforming selected simuiated fault gouge materials. Several sets of samples consisted of intact cylinders, 1.000 inch in diameter and 2.500 inches long. The majority of the samples consisted of thin layers of the selected sample material, inserted within a diagonal sawcut in a 1.000-inch by 2.500-inch Westerly Granite cylinder. Two sorts of inserts were used. The first consisted of thin wafers cut from 1.000-inch-diameter cores of the rock being tested. The other consisted of thin layers of crushed material packed onto the sawcut surface. In several groups of tests using various thicknesses (0.010 inch to 0.160 inch) of a given type material there were variations in the stress level and/or stability of sliding as a function of the fault zone width. Because of this we elected to use a standard 0.025-inch width fault zone to compare the frictional properties of many of the different types of rock materials. This 0.025-inch thickness was chosen partially because this thickness of crushed granite behaves approximately the same as a fractured sample of initially intact granite, and also because this is near the lower limit at which we could cut intact wafers for those samples that were prepared from thin slices of rock. One series of tests was done with saw cut granite cylinders without fault gouge inserts. All of these tests were done in a hydraulically operated triaxial testing machine. The confining pressure (δ1, least principal stress) was applied by pumping petroleum ether into a pressure vessel. The differential stress (δ3-δ1) was applied by a hydraulically operated ram that could be advanced into the pressure vessel at any of several strain rates (10-4sec-1, 10-5sec-1, 10-6sec-1, 10-7sec-1, or 10-8sec-1). All samples were jacketed in polyurethane tubing to exclude the confining pressure medium from the samples. The majority of the samples, with the exception of some of the initially intact rocks, also had thin copper jackets. These served to hold the saw cut parts of the granite sample holders in alignment while the samples were handled and pushed into the polyurethane jackets.

Doing the math. Groups say the debt-ceiling law's $11.1 billion hit to Medicare would lead to mass layoffs in healthcare.

PubMed

Zigmond, Jessica; Daly, Rich

2012-09-17

As Washington wrestles with looming mandatory cuts forced by a deficit agreement, the AMA, AHA and ANA are warning of massive job cuts. "If I've got a choice of maintaining these beneficial programs or contract them for my core mission, you're going to choose your core mission. And that will cost the community more in terms of health and of dollars," says Rich Morrison, of Adventist Health System.

Drill hole logging with infrared spectroscopy

USGS Publications Warehouse

Calvin, W.M.; Solum, J.G.

2005-01-01

Infrared spectroscopy has been used to identify rocks and minerals for over 40 years. The technique is sensitive to primary silicates as well as alteration products. Minerals can be uniquely identified based on multiple absorption features at wavelengths from the visible to the thermal infrared. We are currently establishing methods and protocols in order to use the technique for rapid assessment of downhole lithology on samples obtained during drilling operations. Initial work performed includes spectral analysis of chip cuttings and core sections from drill sites around Desert Peak, NV. In this paper, we report on a survey of 10,000 feet of drill cuttings, at 100 foot intervals, from the San Andreas Fault Observatory at Depth (SAFOD). Data from Blue Mountain geothermal wells will also be acquired. We will describe the utility of the technique for rapid assessment of lithologic and mineralogic discrimination.

Development and Testing of The Lunar Resource Prospector Drill

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zacny, K.; Paulsen, G.; Kleinhenz, J.; Smith, J. T.; Quinn, J.

2017-12-01

The goal of the Lunar Resource Prospector (RP) mission is to capture and identify volatiles species within the top one meter layer of the lunar surface. The RP drill has been designed to 1. Generate cuttings and place them on the surface for analysis by the Near InfraRed Volatiles Spectrometer Subsystem (NIRVSS), and 2. Capture cuttings and transfer them to the Oxygen and Volatile Extraction Node (OVEN) coupled with the Lunar Advanced Volatiles Analysis (LAVA) subsystem. The RP drill is based on the TRL4 Mars Icebreaker drill and TRL5 LITA drill developed for capturing samples of ice and ice cemented ground on Mars, and represents over a decade of technology development effort. The TRL6 RP drill weighs approximately 15 kg and is rated at just over 500 Watt. The drill consists of: 1. Rotary-Percussive Drill Head, 2. Sampling Auger, 3. Brushing Station, 4. Feed Stage, and 5. Deployment Stage. To reduce sample handling complexity, the drill auger is designed to capture cuttings as opposed to cores. High sampling efficiency is possible through a dual design of the auger. The lower section has deep and low pitch flutes for retaining of cuttings. The upper section has been designed to efficiently move the cuttings out of the hole. The drill uses a "bite" sampling approach where samples are captured in 10 cm depth intervals. The first generation, TRL4 Icebreaker drill was tested in Mars chamber as well as in Antarctica and the Arctic. It demonstrated drilling at 1-1-100-100 level (1 meter in 1 hour with 100 Watt and 100 N Weight on Bit) in ice, ice cemented ground, soil, and rocks. The second generation, TRL5 LITA drill was deployed on a Carnegie Mellon University rover, called Zoe, and tested in Atacama, Antarctica, the Arctic, and Greenland. The tests demonstrated fully autonomous sample acquisition and delivery to a carousel. The modified LITA drill was tested in NASA GRC's lunar vacuum chamber at <10^-5 torr and <200 K. It demonstrated successful capture and transfer of volatile rich frozen samples to a crucible for analysis. The modified LITA drill has also been successfully vibration tested at NASA KSC. The drill was integrated with RP rover at NASA JSC and successfully tested in a lab and in the field, as well as on a large vibration table and steep slope. The latest TRL6 RP drill is currently undergoing testing at NASA GRC lunar chamber facilities.

Identifying Major Transitions in the Evolution of Lithic Cutting Edge Production Rates

PubMed Central

Clarkson, Chris

2016-01-01

The notion that the evolution of core reduction strategies involved increasing efficiency in cutting edge production is prevalent in narratives of hominin technological evolution. Yet a number of studies comparing two different knapping technologies have found no significant differences in edge production. Using digital analysis methods we present an investigation of raw material efficiency in eight core technologies broadly representative of the long-term evolution of lithic technology. These are bipolar, multiplatform, discoidal, biface, Levallois, prismatic blade, punch blade and pressure blade production. Raw material efficiency is assessed by the ratio of cutting edge length to original core mass. We also examine which flake attributes contribute to maximising raw material efficiency, as well as compare the difference between expert and intermediate knappers in terms of cutting edge produced per gram of core. We identify a gradual increase in raw material efficiency over the broad sweep of lithic technological evolution. The results indicate that the most significant transition in efficiency likely took place with the introduction of small foliate biface, Levallois and prismatic blade knapping, all introduced in the Middle Stone Age / Middle Palaeolithic among early Homo sapiens and Neanderthals. This suggests that no difference in raw material efficiency existed between these species. With prismatic blade technology securely dated to the Middle Palaeolithic, by including the more recent punch and pressure blade technology our results dispel the notion that the transition to the Upper Palaeolithic was accompanied by an increase in efficiency. However, further increases in cutting edge efficiency are evident, with pressure blades possessing the highest efficiency in this study, indicating that late/epi-Palaeolithic and Neolithic blade technologies further increased efficiency. PMID:27936135

Identifying Major Transitions in the Evolution of Lithic Cutting Edge Production Rates.

PubMed

Muller, Antoine; Clarkson, Chris

2016-01-01

The notion that the evolution of core reduction strategies involved increasing efficiency in cutting edge production is prevalent in narratives of hominin technological evolution. Yet a number of studies comparing two different knapping technologies have found no significant differences in edge production. Using digital analysis methods we present an investigation of raw material efficiency in eight core technologies broadly representative of the long-term evolution of lithic technology. These are bipolar, multiplatform, discoidal, biface, Levallois, prismatic blade, punch blade and pressure blade production. Raw material efficiency is assessed by the ratio of cutting edge length to original core mass. We also examine which flake attributes contribute to maximising raw material efficiency, as well as compare the difference between expert and intermediate knappers in terms of cutting edge produced per gram of core. We identify a gradual increase in raw material efficiency over the broad sweep of lithic technological evolution. The results indicate that the most significant transition in efficiency likely took place with the introduction of small foliate biface, Levallois and prismatic blade knapping, all introduced in the Middle Stone Age / Middle Palaeolithic among early Homo sapiens and Neanderthals. This suggests that no difference in raw material efficiency existed between these species. With prismatic blade technology securely dated to the Middle Palaeolithic, by including the more recent punch and pressure blade technology our results dispel the notion that the transition to the Upper Palaeolithic was accompanied by an increase in efficiency. However, further increases in cutting edge efficiency are evident, with pressure blades possessing the highest efficiency in this study, indicating that late/epi-Palaeolithic and Neolithic blade technologies further increased efficiency.

Publications - GMC 173 | Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical

Science.gov Websites

wells: Colorado Oil and Gas Core Hole #1, 890' - 3570'; and Colorado Oil and Gas Core Hole #2, 4520 cuttings from the following 2 wells: Colorado Oil and Gas Core Hole #1, 890' - 3570'; and Colorado Oil and

X-ray CT core imaging of Oman Drilling Project on D/V CHIKYU

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Michibayashi, K.; Okazaki, K.; Leong, J. A. M.; Kelemen, P. B.; Johnson, K. T. M.; Greenberger, R. N.; Manning, C. E.; Harris, M.; de Obeso, J. C.; Abe, N.; Hatakeyama, K.; Ildefonse, B.; Takazawa, E.; Teagle, D. A. H.; Coggon, J. A.

2017-12-01

We obtained X-ray computed tomography (X-ray CT) images for all cores (GT1A, GT2A, GT3A and BT1A) in Oman Drilling Project Phase 1 (OmanDP cores), since X-ray CT scanning is a routine measurement of the IODP measurement plan onboard Chikyu, which enables the non-destructive observation of the internal structure of core samples. X-ray CT images provide information about chemical compositions and densities of the cores and is useful for assessing sample locations and the quality of the whole-round samples. The X-ray CT scanner (Discovery CT 750HD, GE Medical Systems) on Chikyu scans and reconstructs the image of a 1.4 m section in 10 minutes and produces a series of scan images, each 0.625 mm thick. The X-ray tube (as an X-ray source) and the X-ray detector are installed inside of the gantry at an opposing position to each other. The core sample is scanned in the gantry with the scanning rate of 20 mm/sec. The distribution of attenuation values mapped to an individual slice comprises the raw data that are used for subsequent image processing. Successive two-dimensional (2-D) slices of 512 x 512 pixels yield a representation of attenuation values in three-dimensional (3-D) voxels of 512 x 512 by 1600 in length. Data generated for each core consist of core-axis-normal planes (XY planes) of X-ray attenuation values with dimensions of 512 × 512 pixels in 9 cm × 9 cm cross-section, meaning at the dimensions of a core section, the resolution is 0.176 mm/pixel. X-ray intensity varies as a function of X-ray path length and the linear attenuation coefficient (LAC) of the target material is a function of the chemical composition and density of the target material. The basic measure of attenuation, or radiodensity, is the CT number given in Hounsfield units (HU). CT numbers of air and water are -1000 and 0, respectively. Our preliminary results show that CT numbers of OmanDP cores are well correlated to gamma ray attenuation density (GRA density) as a function of chemical composition and mineral density, so that their profiles with respect to the core depth provide quick lithological information such as mineral identification and phase boundary etc. Moreover, X-ray CT images can be used for 3-D fabric analyses of the whole core even after core cutting into halves for individual analyses.

Characterization of exposures to nanoscale particles and fibers during solid core drilling of hybrid carbon nanotube advanced composites.

PubMed

Bello, Dhimiter; Wardle, Brian L; Zhang, Jie; Yamamoto, Namiko; Santeufemio, Christopher; Hallock, Marilyn; Virji, M Abbas

2010-01-01

This work investigated exposures to nanoparticles and nanofibers during solid core drilling of two types of advanced carbon nanotube (CNT)-hybrid composites: (1) reinforced plastic hybrid laminates (alumina fibers and CNT); and (2) graphite-epoxy composites (carbon fibers and CNT). Multiple real-time instruments were used to characterize the size distribution (5.6 nm to 20 microm), number and mass concentration, particle-bound polyaromatic hydrocarbons (b-PAHs), and surface area of airborne particles at the source and breathing zone. Time-integrated samples included grids for electron microscopy characterization of particle morphology and size resolved (2 nm to 20 microm) samples for the quantification of metals. Several new important findings herein include generation of airborne clusters of CNTs not seen during saw-cutting of similar composites, fewer nanofibers and respirable fibers released, similarly high exposures to nanoparticles with less dependence on the composite thickness, and ultrafine (< 5 nm) aerosol originating from thermal degradation of the composite material.

Infrared Spectroscopy for Rapid Characterization of Drill Core and Cutting Mineralogy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Calvin, W. M.; Kratt, C.; Kruse, F. A.

2009-12-01

Water geochemistry can vary with depth and location within a geothermal reservoir, owing to natural factors such as changing rock type, gas content, fluid source and temperature. The interaction of these variable fluids with the host rock will cause well known changes in alteration mineral assemblages that are commonly factored into the exploration of hydrothermal systems for economic metals, but are less utilized with regard to mapping borehole geology for geothermal energy production. Chemistry of geothermal fluids and rock alteration products can impact production factors such as pipeline corrosion and scaling and early studies explored the use of both silica and chlorites as geothermometers. Infrared spectroscopy is particularly good at identifying a wide variety of alteration minerals, especially in discrimination among clay minerals, with no sample preparation. The technique has been extensively used in the remote identification of materials, but is not commonly used on drill core or chips. We have performed several promising pilot studies that suggest the power of the technique to sample continuously and provide mineral logs akin to geophysical ones. We have surveyed a variety of samples, including drill chip boards, boxed core, and drill cuttings from envelopes, sample bottles and chip trays. This work has demonstrated that core and drill chips can be rapidly surveyed, acquiring spectra every few to tens of cm of section, or the vertical resolution of the chip tray (typically 10 feet). Depending on the sample type we can acquire spectral data over thousands of feet depth at high vertical resolution in a fraction of the time that is needed for traditional analytical methods such as XRD or TEM with better accuracy than traditional geologic drill or chip logging that uses visual inspection alone. We have successfully identified layered silicates such as illite, kaolinite, montmorillonite chlorite and prehnite, zeolites, opal, calcite, jarosite and iron oxides and hydroxides in geothermal drill samples. We are currently developing automated analysis techniques to convert this detailed spectral logging data into high-vertical-resolution mineral depth profiles that can be linked to lithology, stratigraphy, fracture zones and potential for geothermal production. Also in development are metrics that would link mapped mineralogy to known geothermometers such as Na-K, Mg depletion, discrimination among illite, montmorillonite, and beidellite, and kaolinite crystallinity. Identification of amorphous and crystalline silica components (chalcedony, crystobalite and quartz) can also constrain silica geothermometry. The degree of alteration and some mineral types have been shown to be a proxy for host rock permeability, natural circulation, and the potential for reservoir sealing. Analysis of alteration intensity is also under way. We will present a synthesis of results to date.

Quantitative Proteomic Analysis of Optimal Cutting Temperature (OCT) Embedded Core-Needle Biopsy of Lung Cancer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Xiaozheng; Huffman, Kenneth E.; Fujimoto, Junya; Canales, Jamie Rodriguez; Girard, Luc; Nie, Guangjun; Heymach, John V.; Wistuba, Igacio I.; Minna, John D.; Yu, Yonghao

2017-10-01

With recent advances in understanding the genomic underpinnings and oncogenic drivers of pathogenesis in different subtypes, it is increasingly clear that proper pretreatment diagnostics are essential for the choice of appropriate treatment options for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Tumor tissue preservation in optimal cutting temperature (OCT) compound is commonly used in the surgical suite. However, proteins recovered from OCT-embedded specimens pose a challenge for LC-MS/MS experiments, due to the large amounts of polymers present in OCT. Here we present a simple workflow for whole proteome analysis of OCT-embedded NSCLC tissue samples, which involves a simple trichloroacetic acid precipitation step. Comparisons of protein recovery between frozen versus OCT-embedded tissue showed excellent consistency with more than 9200 proteins identified. Using an isobaric labeling strategy, we quantified more than 5400 proteins in tumor versus normal OCT-embedded core needle biopsy samples. Gene ontology analysis indicated that a number of proliferative as well as squamous cell carcinoma (SqCC) marker proteins were overexpressed in the tumor, consistent with the patient's pathology based diagnosis of "poorly differentiated SqCC". Among the most downregulated proteins in the tumor sample, we noted a number of proteins with potential immunomodulatory functions. Finally, interrogation of the aberrantly expressed proteins using a candidate approach and cross-referencing with publicly available databases led to the identification of potential druggable targets in DNA replication and DNA damage repair pathways. We conclude that our approach allows LC-MS/MS proteomic analyses on OCT-embedded lung cancer specimens, opening the way to bring powerful proteomics into the clinic. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

Improvement of Prostate Cancer Diagnosis by Detecting PSA Glycosylation-Specific Changes.

PubMed

Llop, Esther; Ferrer-Batallé, Montserrat; Barrabés, Sílvia; Guerrero, Pedro Enrique; Ramírez, Manel; Saldova, Radka; Rudd, Pauline M; Aleixandre, Rosa N; Comet, Josep; de Llorens, Rafael; Peracaula, Rosa

2016-01-01

New markers based on PSA isoforms have recently been developed to improve prostate cancer (PCa) diagnosis. However, novel approaches are still required to differentiate aggressive from non-aggressive PCa to improve decision making for patients. PSA glycoforms have been shown to be differentially expressed in PCa. In particular, changes in the extent of core fucosylation and sialylation of PSA N-glycans in PCa patients compared to healthy controls or BPH patients have been reported. The objective of this study was to determine these specific glycan structures in serum PSA to analyze their potential value as markers for discriminating between BPH and PCa of different aggressiveness. In the present work, we have established two methodologies to analyze the core fucosylation and the sialic acid linkage of PSA N-glycans in serum samples from BPH (29) and PCa (44) patients with different degrees of aggressiveness. We detected a significant decrease in the core fucose and an increase in the α2,3-sialic acid percentage of PSA in high-risk PCa that differentiated BPH and low-risk PCa from high-risk PCa patients. In particular, a cut-off value of 0.86 of the PSA core fucose ratio, could distinguish high-risk PCa patients from BPH with 90% sensitivity and 95% specificity, with an AUC of 0.94. In the case of the α2,3-sialic acid percentage of PSA, the cut-off value of 30% discriminated between high-risk PCa and the group of BPH, low-, and intermediate-risk PCa with a sensitivity and specificity of 85.7% and 95.5%, respectively, with an AUC of 0.97. The latter marker exhibited high performance in differentiating between aggressive and non-aggressive PCa and has the potential for translational application in the clinic.

Improvement of Prostate Cancer Diagnosis by Detecting PSA Glycosylation-Specific Changes

PubMed Central

Llop, Esther; Ferrer-Batallé, Montserrat; Barrabés, Sílvia; Guerrero, Pedro Enrique; Ramírez, Manel; Saldova, Radka; Rudd, Pauline M.; Aleixandre, Rosa N.; Comet, Josep; de Llorens, Rafael; Peracaula, Rosa

2016-01-01

New markers based on PSA isoforms have recently been developed to improve prostate cancer (PCa) diagnosis. However, novel approaches are still required to differentiate aggressive from non-aggressive PCa to improve decision making for patients. PSA glycoforms have been shown to be differentially expressed in PCa. In particular, changes in the extent of core fucosylation and sialylation of PSA N-glycans in PCa patients compared to healthy controls or BPH patients have been reported. The objective of this study was to determine these specific glycan structures in serum PSA to analyze their potential value as markers for discriminating between BPH and PCa of different aggressiveness. In the present work, we have established two methodologies to analyze the core fucosylation and the sialic acid linkage of PSA N-glycans in serum samples from BPH (29) and PCa (44) patients with different degrees of aggressiveness. We detected a significant decrease in the core fucose and an increase in the α2,3-sialic acid percentage of PSA in high-risk PCa that differentiated BPH and low-risk PCa from high-risk PCa patients. In particular, a cut-off value of 0.86 of the PSA core fucose ratio, could distinguish high-risk PCa patients from BPH with 90% sensitivity and 95% specificity, with an AUC of 0.94. In the case of the α2,3-sialic acid percentage of PSA, the cut-off value of 30% discriminated between high-risk PCa and the group of BPH, low-, and intermediate-risk PCa with a sensitivity and specificity of 85.7% and 95.5%, respectively, with an AUC of 0.97. The latter marker exhibited high performance in differentiating between aggressive and non-aggressive PCa and has the potential for translational application in the clinic. PMID:27279911

Sea Ice Properties and Processes. Proceedings of the W. F. Weeks Sea Ice Symposium Held In San Francisco, California on December 1988

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-02-01

in the sample by inserting a probe thermometer into a transverse hole that was prepared with a hand drill . Then a portion of the ice was cut into...WeddellSea duringJuly-September 1986. holes drilled had the ice surface at or below sea level The symbols show positions where ice cores were at the...flux argument cannot be Table 3. Frequency of drilled statistically confirmed from the observations. holes with negative ice free- board. Measurement

Initiation of Coronal Mass Ejections by Tether-Cutting Reconnection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moore, Ronald L.; Sterling, Alphonse C.; Falconer, David A.; Six, N. Frank (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

We present and interpret examples of the eruptive motion and flare brightening observed in the onset of magnetic explosions that produce coronal mass ejections. The observations are photospheric magnetograms and sequences of coronal and/or chromospheric images. In our examples, the explosion is apparently driven by the ejective eruption of a sigmoidal sheared-field flux rope from the core of an initially closed bipole. This eruption is initiated (triggered and unleashed) by reconnection located either (1) internally, low in the sheared core field, or (2) externally, at a magnetic null above the closed bipole. The internal reconnection is commonly called 'tether-cutting" reconnection, and the external reconnection is commonly called "break-out' reconnection. We point out that break-out reconnection amounts to external tether cutting. In one example, the eruptive motion of the sheared core field starts several minutes prior to any detectable brightening in the coronal images. We suggest that in this case the eruption is triggered by internal tether-cutting reconnection that at first is too slow and/or too localized to produce detectable heating in the coronal images. This work is supported by NASA's Office of Space Science through its Solar & Heliospheric Physics Supporting Research & Technology program and its Sun-Earth Connection Guest Investigator program.

Deep Drilling and Sampling via the Wireline Auto-Gopher Driven by Piezoelectric Percussive Actuator and EM Rotary Motor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bar-Cohen, Yoseph; Badescu, Mircea; Sherrit, Stewart; Zacny, Kris; Paulsen, Gale L; Beegle, Luther; Bao, Xiaoqi

2012-01-01

The ability to penetrate subsurfaces and perform sample acquisition at depths of meters is critical for future NASA in-situ exploration missions to bodies in the solar system, including Mars and Europa. A corer/sampler was developed with the goal of acquiring pristine samples by reaching depths on Mars beyond the oxidized and sterilized zone. To developed rotary-hammering coring drill, called Auto-Gopher, employs a piezoelectric actuated percussive mechanism for breaking formations and an electric motor rotates the bit to remove the powdered cuttings. This sampler is a wireline mechanism that is incorporated with an inchworm mechanism allowing thru cyclic coring and core removal to reach great depths. The penetration rate is being optimized by simultaneously activating the percussive and rotary motions of the Auto-Gopher. The percussive mechanism is based on the Ultrasonic/Sonic Drill/Corer (USDC) mechanism that is driven by piezoelectric stack and that was demonstrated to require low axial preload. The Auto-Gopher has been produced taking into account the a lessons learned from the development of the Ultrasonic/Sonic Gopher that was designed as a percussive ice drill and was demonstrated in Antarctica in 2005 to reach about 2 meters deep. A field demonstration of the Auto-Gopher is currently being planned with objective of reaching as deep as 3 to 5 meters in tufa subsurface.

A novel fast ion chromatographic method for the analysis of fluoride in Antarctic snow and ice.

PubMed

Severi, Mirko; Becagli, Silvia; Frosini, Daniele; Marconi, Miriam; Traversi, Rita; Udisti, Roberto

2014-01-01

Ice cores are widely used to reconstruct past changes of the climate system. For instance, the ice core record of numerous water-soluble and insoluble chemical species that are trapped in snow and ice offer the possibility to investigate past changes of various key compounds present in the atmosphere (i.e., aerosol, reactive gases). We developed a new method for the quantitative determination of fluoride in ice cores at sub-μg L(-1) levels by coupling a flow injection analysis technique with a fast ion chromatography separation based on the "heart cut" column switching technology. Sensitivity, linear range (up to 60 μg L(-1)), reproducibility, and detection limit (0.02 μg L(-1)) were evaluated for the new method. This method was successfully applied to the analysis of fluoride at trace levels in more than 450 recent snow samples collected during the 1998-1999 International Trans-Antarctica Scientific Expedition traverse in East Antarctica at sites located between 170 and 850 km from the coastline.

Concrete Durability in Harsh Environmental Conditions Exposed to Freeze Thaw Cycles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hamze, Youssef

Under line Pathology of Materials; one of the environmental causes of damage effects on concrete is freeze thaw cycles, which deteriorate the concrete exposed to water in cold weather. An example of old concrete is a dam project that was built in Canada, in the early 1909-1913. This project was reconstructed in 1932, 1934 and 1972, and required renovation due to the ice abrasion with the freeze/thaw cycles. Before completing any renovation, it is required to analyze the structural stability and the concrete failures of this dam. An investigation was conducted to determine the quality of the concrete in the Piers and in the Bridge Deck Slab. It was also required to determine the basic materials' properties that constitute this project. This will improve the analysis of its stability [10]. Core samples were examined and used as test samples, for the Alkali-Silica reactivity test samples, as well as the compressive strength test, the Chloride Ion test, and the freeze thaw testing which was performed on two sets of 12 concrete core samples that were taken from different locations in the project. These locations are the representations of the age of the concrete. Thus, the age difference between the samples' two sets is four decades. Testing was performed on prisms cut from cores. ASTM C-666 procedure (A) was applied using an automatic test system [6]. It was suggested that a plan for renovation of this project should be performed after the analysis is undertaken to assess the conditions estimating the remaining life of the concrete in this project [15].

Reviewing the testing protocol for density cores collected from CTDOT during the 2012 and 2013 construction seasons.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-09-26

Density of cores that are cut from the roadway following compaction on new pavements in CT is used as a quality indicator. This density needs to be determined accurately as it impacts payment. Cores need to contain material from the placed surface wi...

Identifying Core Concepts of Cybersecurity: Results of Two Delphi Processes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Parekh, Geet; DeLatte, David; Herman, Geoffrey L.; Oliva, Linda; Phatak, Dhananjay; Scheponik, Travis; Sherman, Alan T.

2018-01-01

This paper presents and analyzes results of two Delphi processes that polled cybersecurity experts to rate cybersecurity topics based on importance, difficulty, and timelessness. These ratings can be used to identify core concepts--cross-cutting ideas that connect knowledge in the discipline. The first Delphi process identified core concepts that…

Historical Carbon Dioxide Record from the Vostok Ice Core (417,160 - 2,342 years BP)

DOE Data Explorer

Barnola, J. M. [CNRS, Saint Martin d'Heres Cedex, France; Raynaud, D. [CNRS, Saint Martin d'Heres Cedex, France; Lorius, C. [CNRS, Saint Martin d'Heres Cedex, France; Barkov, N. I.

2003-01-01

In January 1998, the collaborative ice-drilling project between Russia, the United States, and France at the Russian Vostok station in East Antarctica yielded the deepest ice core ever recovered, reaching a depth of 3,623 m (Petit et al. 1997, 1999). Ice cores are unique with their entrapped air inclusions enabling direct records of past changes in atmospheric trace-gas composition. Preliminary data indicate the Vostok ice-core record extends through four climate cycles, with ice slightly older than 400 kyr (Petit et al. 1997, 1999). Because air bubbles do not close at the surface of the ice sheet but only near the firn-ice transition (that is, at ~90 m below the surface at Vostok), the air extracted from the ice is younger than the surrounding ice (Barnola et al. 1991). Using semiempirical models of densification applied to past Vostok climate conditions, Barnola et al. (1991) reported that the age difference between air and ice may be ~6000 years during the coldest periods instead of ~4000 years, as previously assumed. Ice samples were cut with a bandsaw in a cold room (at about -15°C) as close as possible to the center of the core in order to avoid surface contamination (Barnola et al. 1983). Gas extraction and measurements were performed with the "Grenoble analytical setup," which involved crushing the ice sample (~40 g) under vacuum in a stainless steel container without melting it, expanding the gas released during the crushing in a pre-evacuated sampling loop, and analyzing the CO2 concentrations by gas chromatography (Barnola et al. 1983). The analytical system, except for the stainless steel container in which the ice was crushed, was calibrated for each ice sample measurement with a standard mixture of CO2 in nitrogen and oxygen. For further details on the experimental procedures and the dating of the successive ice layers at Vostok, see Barnola et al. (1987, 1991), Lorius et al. (1985), and Petit et al. (1999).

Thermal inactivation of Escherichia coli O157:H7 in blade-tenderized beef steaks cooked on a commercial open-flame gas grill.

PubMed

Luchansky, John B; Porto-Fett, Anna C S; Shoyer, Bradley; Phebus, Randall K; Thippareddi, Harshavardhan; Call, Jeffrey E

2009-07-01

Beef subprimals were inoculated on the lean side with ca. 4.0 log CFU/g of a cocktail of rifampin-resistant (Rif(r)) Escherichia coli O157:H7 strains and then passed once through a mechanical blade tenderizer with the lean side facing upward. Inoculated subprimals that were not tenderized served as controls. Two core samples were removed from each of three tenderized subprimals and cut into six consecutive segments starting from the inoculated side. A total of six cores were also obtained from control subprimals, but only segment 1 (topmost) was sampled. Levels of E. coli O157:H7 recovered from segment 1 were 3.81 log CFU/g for the control subprimals and 3.36 log CFU/g for tenderized subprimals. The percentage of cells recovered in segment 2 was ca. 25-fold lower than levels recovered from segment 1, but E. coli O157:H7 was recovered from all six segments of the cores obtained from tenderized subprimals. In phase II, lean-side-inoculated (ca. 4.0 log CFU/g), single-pass tenderized subprimals were cut into steaks of various thicknesses (1.91 cm [0.75 in.], 2.54 cm [1.0 in.], and 3.18 cm [1.25 in.]) that were subsequently cooked on a commercial open-flame gas grill to internal temperatures of 48.8 degrees C (120 degrees F), 54.4 degrees C (130 degrees F), and 60 degrees C (140 degrees F). In general, regardless of temperature or thickness, we observed about a 2.6- to 4.2-log CFU/g reduction in pathogen levels following cooking. These data validate that cooking on a commercial gas grill is effective at eliminating relatively low levels of the pathogen that may be distributed throughout a blade-tenderized steak.

X-33 Tank Failure During Autoclave Fabrication

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nettles, Alan T.; Munafo, Paul (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

The composite liquid hydrogen tank (tank #1 of 2) for the X-33 flight vehicle is made up of four lobes that have a sandwich construction, bonded to a frame of longerons. Lobes 1 and 4 showed local disbonds to the longerons they were bonded to. The 'bad' areas were cut away and patched with new material. The new material was cured by placing the entire tank in a heated autoclave with no pressure. Upon removal from the autoclave, it was noted that lobe 1 had severe skin/core disbonds on the inner and outer skins. The skins on this lobe were cracked as well. The core was disbonded from the inner skin across the entire acreage, except for spots around the lobe perimeter. The outer skin was separated from the core in a region near the center of the lobe. Lobe 1 was removed from the tank on January 13, 1999. Bolts were placed through the lobe to hold it together and the cuts on the inner skin were not continuous, but 'tabs' were left for final cutting and removal. Upon closer inspection of the disbonded basesheet, it was noted that there was a lack of filleting into the honeycomb core. Good fillets are critical to bond strength.

Fractographic logging for determination of pre-core and core-induced fractures: Nicholas Combs No. 7239 well, Hazard, Kentucky

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

Kulander, B.R.; Dean, S.L.; Barton, C.C.

1977-01-01

Methods results, and conclusions formulated during a prototype fractographic logging study of seventy-five feet of oriented Devonian shale core are summarized. The core analyzed is from the Nicholas Combs No. 7239 well located twelve miles due north of Hazard, Kentucky. The seventy-five foot core length was taken from a cored section lying between 2369.0 feet (subsea) and 2708.0 feet (subsea). Total core length is 339.0 feet. The core was extracted from the upper Devonian Ohio and Olentangy shale formations. Results indicate that there are few tectonic (pre-core) fractures within the studied core section. The region may nevertheless be cut atmore » core sample depth by well-defined vertical or inclined tectonic fractures that the vertically drilled test core didn't intersect. This is likely since surface Plateau systematic fractures in other Plateau areas are vertical to sub-vertical and seldom have a frequency of less than one major fracture per foot. The remarkable directional preference of set three fractures about strikes of N 40/sup 0/ E, N 10/sup 0/ W, N 45/sup 0/ W, suggests some incipient pre-core rock anisotropy or stored directional strain energy. If this situation exists, the anisotropy strike change or stored strain variance from N 40/sup 0/ E to N 45/sup 0/ W downcore remains an unanswered question. Tectonic features, indicating local and/or regional movement plans, are present on and within the tectonichorizontal fracture set one. Slickensides had a preferred orientation within several core levels, and fibrous-nonfibrous calcite serves as fracture fillings.« less

Publications - GMC 324 | Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical

Science.gov Websites

. 1, which includes an HC-Show (Hydrocarbon-Show) Evaluation from core (989', 997.25', and 1625') and Source-Rock Evaluation from cuttings (10880'-11010') and from core(10992') Authors: Huizinga, B.J . Oumalik No. 1, which includes an HC-Show (Hydrocarbon-Show) Evaluation from core (989', 997.25', and 1625

COVERING A CORE BY EXTRUSION

DOEpatents

Karnie, A.J.

1963-07-16

A method of covering a cylindrical fuel core with a cladding metal ms described. The metal is forced between dies around the core from both ends in two opposing skirts, and as these meet the ends turn outward into an annular recess in the dics. By cutting off the raised portion formed by the recess, oxide impurities are eliminated. (AEC)

High precision laser processing of sensitive materials by Microjet

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sibailly, Ochelio D.; Wagner, Frank R.; Mayor, Laetitia; Richerzhagen, Bernold

2003-11-01

Material laser cutting is well known and widely used in industrial processes, including micro fabrication. An increasing number of applications require nevertheless a superior machining quality than can be achieved using this method. A possibility to increase the cut quality is to opt for the water-jet guided laser technology. In this technique the laser is conducted to the work piece by total internal reflection in a thin stable water-jet, comparable to the core of an optical fiber. The water jet guided laser technique was developed originally in order to reduce the heat damaged zone near the cut, but in fact many other advantages were observed due to the usage of a water-jet instead of an assist gas stream applied in conventional laser cutting. In brief, the advantages are three-fold: the absence of divergence due to light guiding, the efficient melt expulsion, and optimum work piece cooling. In this presentation we will give an overview on several industrial applications of the water-jet guided laser technique. These applications range from the cutting of CBN or ferrite cores to the dicing of thin wafers and the manufacturing of stencils, each illustrates the important impact of the water-jet usage.

Composite Cores

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1990-01-01

Spang & Company's new configuration of converter transformer cores is a composite of gapped and ungapped cores assembled together in concentric relationship. The net effect of the composite design is to combine the protection from saturation offered by the gapped core with the lower magnetizing requirement of the ungapped core. The uncut core functions under normal operating conditions and the cut core takes over during abnormal operation to prevent power surges and their potentially destructive effect on transistors. Principal customers are aerospace and defense manufacturers. Cores also have applicability in commercial products where precise power regulation is required, as in the power supplies for large mainframe computers.

Publications - GMC 271 | Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical

Science.gov Websites

') and of core (9,683-9,694') from the ARCO Alaska Inc. Tulaga #1 well Authors: Unknown Publication Date Reference Unknown, 1996, Vitrinite reflectance maceral data of cuttings (1,200-11,742') and of core (9,683

FORGE Milford Digitized Geophysical Logs from Acord 1

DOE Data Explorer

Jones, Clay G.; Moore, Joseph N.

2016-03-31

This submission includes digitalized versions of the following: McCulloch Geothermal Corp Acord 1-26 Cover Letter McCulloch Geothermal Corp Acord 1-26 Drilling Plan McCulloch Geothermal Corp Acord 1-26 Bond Documents Division of Water Rights Permission to Drill Drillers Log Geothermal Data (Mud) Log Compensated Densilog - Neutron Log Dual Induction Focused Log BHC Acoustilog Differential Temperature Log Dual Induction Focused Log Gamma Ray Neutron Log Temperature Log Caliper Temperature Log (Run 3) Densilog Gamma Ray Neutron Log Temperature Log (Run 4) Compensated Densilog Sample Log (Page 1 of 2) Report of Well Driller Stratigraphic Report (J.E. Welsh) Photographs and Negatives of Acord 1-26 Well Site (7) Petrography Report (M.J. Sweeney) Cuttings Samples (21 Boxes at Utah Core Research Center)

Accretion rate of extraterrestrial matter: Iridium deposited over the last 70 million years

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kyte, Frank T.

1988-01-01

In order to quantify the accretion rate of extraterrestrial matter during the Cenozoic, Ir concentrations were measured in a continuous series of 450 samples across most of the length of piston core LL44-GPC3. LL44-GPC3 is a 25-meter-long, large-diameter piston core of abyssal clay from the central North Pacific. This core contains a nearly continuous record of sedimentation over the last 70 Ma, as this site migrated from a region near the Equator in the late Cretaceous to its present position north of Hawaii. The first-cut survey across the core is nearing completion, and all of the conclusions of the earlier study, in which was reported the concentrations of Ir, Co, and Sb across 9 meters of this core, remain unchanged. The only strongly enhanced Ir concentrations occur at the Cretaceous-Tertiary (K-T) boundary and outside the K-T boundary Ir correlates well with Co, a terrestrial element which is largely present in hydrogenous ferromanganese oxide precipitates from seawater. Concentrations of both elements appear to be inversely correlated with the sedimentation rate. Although the K-T Ir anomaly is unique in magnitude in this core, there are several small bumps in the Ir profile which may reflect smaller accretionary events. The most promising Ir enhancement was observed in a 30 cm section approximately 1 m below the K-T boundary. Preliminary data suggest deposition of an excess across this interval at a time estimate to be approximate 1 Ma before the K-T impact event, but there is insufficient evidence at present to prove that this reflects enhanced accretion of extraterrestrial matter. A detailed model is being prepared of the chemical record of sedimentation in this core using a combined database of 39 elements in approximately 450 samples across the Cenozoic. Preliminary working model indicates that the only sedimentary sources which contribute significantly to the Ir budget in this core are the hydrogenous precipitates and extraterrestrial particulates.

Multi-well sample plate cover penetration system

DOEpatents

Beer, Neil Reginald [Pleasanton, CA

2011-12-27

An apparatus for penetrating a cover over a multi-well sample plate containing at least one individual sample well includes a cutting head, a cutter extending from the cutting head, and a robot. The cutting head is connected to the robot wherein the robot moves the cutting head and cutter so that the cutter penetrates the cover over the multi-well sample plate providing access to the individual sample well. When the cutting head is moved downward the foil is pierced by the cutter that splits, opens, and folds the foil inward toward the well. The well is then open for sample aspiration but has been protected from cross contamination.

Study of muons near shower cores at sea level using the E594 neutrino detector

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goodman, J. A.; Gupta, S. C.; Freudenreich, H.; Sivaprasad, K.; Tonwar, S. C.; Yodh, G. B.; Ellsworth, R. W.; Goodman, M. C.; Bogert, D.; Burnstein, R.

1985-01-01

The E594 neutrino detector has been used to study the lateral distribution of muons of energy 3 GeV near shower cores. The detector consists of a 340 ton fine grain calorimeter with 400,000 cells of flash chamber and dimensions of 3.7 m x 20 m x 3.7 m (height). The average density in the calorimeter is 1.4 gm/sq cm, and the average Z is 21. The detector was triggered by four 0.6 sq m scintillators placed immediately on the top of the calorimeter. The trigger required at least two of these four counters. The accompanying extensive air showers (EAS) was sampled by 14 scintillation counters located up to 15 m from the calorimeter. Several off line cuts have been applied to the data. Demanding five particles in at least two of the trigger detectors, a total of 20 particles in all of them together, and an arrival angle for the shower 450 deg reduced the data sample to 11053 events. Of these in 4869 cases, a computer algorithm found at least three muons in the calorimeter.

Effects of Salinity and Confining Pressure on Hydration-Induced Fracture Propagation and Permeability of Mancos Shale

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Shifeng; Sheng, James J.

2017-11-01

Low-salinity water imbibition was considered an enhanced recovery method in shale oil/gas reservoirs due to the resulting hydration-induced fractures, as observed at ambient conditions. To study the effect of confining pressure and salinity on hydration-induced fractures, time-elapsed computerized tomography (CT) was used to obtain cross-sectional images of shale cores. Based on the CT data of these cross-sectional images, cut faces parallel to the core axial in the middle of the core and 3D fracture images were also reconstructed. To study the effects of confining pressure and salinity on shale pore fluid flowing, shale permeability was measured with Nitrogen (N2), distilled water, 4% KCl solution, and 8% KCl solution. With confining pressures increased to 2 MPa or more, either in distilled water or in KCl solutions of different salinities, fractures were observed to close instead to propagate at the end of the tests. The intrinsic permeabilities of #1 and #2 Mancos shale cores were 60.0 and 7000 nD, respectively. When tested with distilled water, the permeability of #1 shale sample with 20.0 MPa confining pressure loaded, and #2 shale sample with 2.5 MPa confining pressure loaded, decreased to 0.45 and 15 nD, respectively. Using KCl can partly mitigate shale permeability degradation. Compared to 4% KCl, 8% KCl can decrease more permeability damage. From this point of view, high salinity KCl solution should be required for the water-based fracturing fluid.

Auto-Gopher-II: an autonomous wireline rotary-hammer ultrasonic drill

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Badescu, Mircea; Lee, Hyeong Jae; Sherrit, Stewart; Bao, Xiaoqi; Bar-Cohen, Yoseph; Jackson, Shannon; Chesin, Jacob; Zacny, Kris; Paulsen, Gale L.; Mellerowicz, Bolek; Kim, Daniel

2017-04-01

Developing technologies that would enable future NASA exploration missions to penetrate deeper into the subsurface of planetary bodies for sample collection is of great importance. Performing these tasks while using minimal mass/volume systems and with low energy consumption is another set of requirements imposed on such technologies. A deep drill, called Auto-Gopher II, is currently being developed as a joint effort between JPL's NDEAA laboratory and Honeybee Robotics Corp. The Auto-Gopher II is a wireline rotary-hammer drill that combines formation breaking by hammering using an ultrasonic actuator and cuttings removal by rotating a fluted auger bit. The hammering mechanism is based on the Ultrasonic/Sonic Drill/Corer (USDC) mechanism that has been developed as an adaptable tool for many drilling and coring applications. The USDC uses an intermediate free-flying mass to transform high frequency vibrations of a piezoelectric transducer horn tip into sonic hammering of the drill bit. The USDC concept was used in a previous task to develop an Ultrasonic/Sonic Ice Gopher and then integrated into a rotary hammer device to develop the Auto-Gopher-I. The lessons learned from these developments are being integrated into the development of the Auto- Gopher-II, an autonomous deep wireline drill with integrated cuttings and sample management and drive electronics. Subsystems of the wireline drill are being developed in parallel at JPL and Honeybee Robotics Ltd. This paper presents the development efforts of the piezoelectric actuator, cuttings removal and retention flutes and drive electronics.

Geology and geochemistry of paleosols developed on the Hekpoort Basalt, Pretoria Group, South Africa

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rye, R.; Holland, H. D.

2000-01-01

The Hekpoort paleosols comprise a regional paleoweathering horizon developed on 2.224 +/- 0.021 Ga basaltic andesite lavas at the top of the Hekpoort Formation of the Pretoria Group, Transvaal Supergroup, South Africa. In five separate profiles, from outcrops along road cuts near Waterval Onder and the Daspoort Tunnel and in three drill cores from the Bank Break Area (BB3, BB8, and BB14), the top of the paleosol is a sericite-rich zone. The sericite zone grades downward into a chlorite-rich zone. In core BB8 and in the road cut at the Daspoort Tunnel, we sampled the underlying or parent basaltic andesite into which the chlorite zone grades. We did not obtain samples of the parent material at Waterval Onder and in cores BB3 and BB14, but chemical analyses indicate that the chlorite and sericite zones in these profiles derive from underlying lavas similar to the ones we sampled in core BB8 and at the Daspoort Tunnel. The presence of apparent rip-up clasts of the paleosol in the overlying ironstones of the Strubenkop Formation in the cores from Bank Break makes it very unlikely that most of the alteration was a result of interactions with hydrothermal fluids. Desiccation cracks at the top of the paleosol that were filled with sand during the deposition of the overlying sediments at Waterval Onder point to a subaerial weathering origin. Very little, if any, Al, Ti, Zr, V, or Cr moved a discernible distance during weathering of any of the five profiles. The vertical distribution of Fe, Mg, Mn, Ni, and Co indicates that these elements were largely removed from the top of the soil during weathering. The overall abundance of these elements in each of the profiles indicates that a significant fraction of the complement lost from the top subsequently reprecipitated in the lower portion of the soil as constituents of an Fe2(+) -rich smectite. The loss of Fe from the top of the soil during weathering of the Hekpoort paleosols indicates that atmospheric PO2 was less than 8 x 10(-4) atm about 2.22 Ga. Fe2(+) -rich smectite should only precipitate during soil formation if atmospheric PCO2 is less than or equal to 2 x 10(-2) atm (Rye, Kuo, and Holland, 1995). Ca and Na were largely lost during weathering. Some Na was apparently added to the sericite zone in cores BB3, BB8, and BB14 after weathering. All five profiles are enriched in K and Rb, and most are enriched in Ba. The distribution of these elements indicates that they all were added during post-weathering hydrothermal metasomatism. Rb-Sr analysis of the paleosol at the Daspoort Tunnel indicates that metasomatism last affected that profile 1.925 +/- 0.032 Ga (Macfarlane and Holland, 1991).

THE SDSS-IV EXTENDED BARYON OSCILLATION SPECTROSCOPIC SURVEY: QUASAR TARGET SELECTION

DOE PAGES

Myers, Adam D.; Palanque-Delabrouille, Nathalie; Prakash, Abhishek; ...

2015-12-01

As part of the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) IV the extended Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey (eBOSS) will improve measurements of the cosmological distance scale by applying the Baryon Acoustic Oscillation (BAO) method to quasar samples. eBOSS will adopt two approaches to target quasars over 7500 deg 2 . First, a "CORE" quasar sample will combine the optical selection in ugriz using a likelihood-based routine called XDQSOz, with a mid-IR-optical color cut. eBOSS CORE selection (to g < 22 or r < 22) should return ~70 deg -2 quasars at redshifts 0.9 < z < 2.2 and ~7 deg -2more » z > 2.1 quasars. Second, a selection based on variability in multi-epoch imaging from the Palomar Transient Factory should recover an additional ~3-4 deg -2 z > 2.1 quasars to g < 22.5. A linear model of how imaging systematics affect target density recovers the angular distribution of eBOSS CORE quasars over 96.7% (76.7%) of the SDSS north (south) Galactic Cap area. The eBOSS CORE quasar sample should thus be sufficiently dense and homogeneous over 0.9 < z < 2.2 to yield the first few-percent-level BAO constraint near eBOSS quasars at z > 2.1 will be used to improve BAO measurements in the Lyα Forest. Beyond its key cosmological goals, eBOSS should be the next-generation quasar survey, comprising > 500,000 new quasars and > 500,000 uniformly selected spectroscopically confirmed 0.9 < z < 2.2 quasars. At the conclusion of eBOSS, the SDSS will have provided unique spectra for more than 800,000 quasars.« less

Keeping the Arts Alive: Fine Arts Databases

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Young, Terrence E., Jr.

2005-01-01

When budgets are tightened, the school library media specialists and/or the arts programs are often considered expendable. No Child Left Behind legislation means increasing academic time for core subjects, which translates into cutting time for arts education. As money becomes tight, frills are cut (i.e., the arts). Schools don't seem able to fill…

Publications - GMC 199 | Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical

Science.gov Websites

(2,770' and 6,520') and of core (8,242') from Gulf Oil Corporation Colville Delta State #1 well, and of of cuttings (2,770' and 6,520') and of core (8,242') from Gulf Oil Corporation Colville Delta State

Publications - GMC 190 | Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical

Science.gov Websites

core (9,634.5'-9,671.5') from the Tenneco Oil Company OCS Y-0943-1 (Aurora) well Authors: Unknown Reference Unknown, 1991, Vitrinite reflectance data of cuttings (1,080'-18,325') and core (9,634.5'-9,671.5

Study on processing parameters of glass cutting by nanosecond 532 nm fiber laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Jin; Gao, Fan; Xiong, Baoxing; Zhang, Xiang; Yuan, Xiao

2018-03-01

The processing parameters of soda-lime glass cutting with several nanosecond 532 nm pulsed fiber laser are studied in order to obtain sufficiently large ablation rate and better processing quality. The influences of laser processing parameters on effective cutting speed and cutting quality of 1 2 mm thick soda-lime glass are studied. The experimental results show that larger laser pulse energy will lead to higher effective cutting speed and larger maximum edge collapse of the front side of the glass samples. Compared with that of 1.1 mm thick glass samples, the 2.0 mm thick glass samples is more difficult to cut. With the pulse energy of 51.2 μJ, the maximum edge collapse is more than 200 μm for the 2.0 mm thick glass samples. In order to achieve the high effective cutting speed and good cutting quality at the same time, the dual energy overlapping method is used to obtain the better cutting performance for the 2.0 mm thick glass samples, and the cutting speed of 194 mm/s and the maximum edge collapse of less than 132 μm are realized.

Post-impact alteration of the Manson impact structure

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Crossey, L. J.; Mccarville, P.

1993-01-01

Core materials from the Manson impact site (Manson, Iowa) are examined in order to evaluate post-impact alteration processes. Diagenetic interpretation of post-impact events is based on petrologic, mineralogic, and geochemical investigation of core materials including the following: target strata, disturbed and disrupted strata, ejecta, breccias, microbreccias, and impact melt. The diagenetic study utilizes research cores obtained by the continental scientific drilling project (CSDP) at the Manson structure, as well as core and cuttings of related materials. Samples include impactites (breccias, microbreccias, and melt material), crater fill material (sedimentary clast breccias), disturbed and disrupted target rocks, and reference target material (Amoco Eisheid No. 1 materials). The study of multiple cores will permit development of a regional picture of post-impact thermal history. The specific objectives are as follows: (1) provide a detailed description of authigenic and alteration mineralogy from diverse lithologies encountered in research drill cores at the Manson impact structure, and (2) identify and relate significant post-impact mineral alteration to post-impact thermal regime (extent and duration). Results will provide mineralogical and geochemical constraints on models for post-impact processes including the following: infilling of the crater depression; cooling and hydrothermal alteration of melt rocks; and subsequent long-term, low-temperature alteration of target rocks, breccias, and melt rocks. Preliminary petrologic and x-ray diffraction examination of fracture linings and void fillings from research core M1 indicate the presence of quartz, chlorite, mixed-layer clays, gypsum/anhydrite, calcite, and minor pyrite.

Big Skills for the Common Core: Literacy Strategies for the 6-12 Classroom

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Benjamin, Amy; Hugelmeyer, Michael

2013-01-01

Zoom in on the academic skills students are required to learn in reading, writing, speaking/listening, and language! This book cuts through all of the Common Core jargon and gets right to the heart of what students need to learn now. "Big Skills for the Common Core" is packed with engaging strategies you can use immediately to improve your…

Ultrasound as an intervention technology for the sanitation of lettuce harvesting knife

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Lettuce field-coring and trimming practices are recent industry developments designed to improve fresh-cut processing yield and reduce shipping and waste disposal costs. Studies showed that the harvesting/coring knives used could be potentially contaminated with pathogens by contact with contaminat...

Miniature Low-Mass Drill Actuated by Flextensional Piezo Stack

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sherrit, Stewart; Badescu, Mircea; Bar-Cohen, Yoseph

2010-01-01

Recent experiments with a flextensional piezoelectric actuator have led to the development of a sampler with a bit that is designed to produce and capture a full set of sample forms including volatiles, powdered cuttings, and core fragments. The flextensional piezoelectric actuator is a part of a series of devices used to amplify the generated strain from piezoelectric actuators. Other examples include stacks, bimorphs, benders, and cantilevers. These devices combine geometric and resonance amplifications to produce large stroke at high power density. The operation of this sampler/drill was demonstrated using a 3x2x1-cm actuator weighing 12 g using power of about 10-W and a preload of about 10 N. A limestone block was drilled to a depth of about 1 cm in five minutes to produce powdered cuttings. It is generally hard to collect volatiles from random surface profiles found in rocks and sediment, powdered cuttings, and core fragments. Toward the end of collecting volatiles, the actuator and the bit are covered with bellows-shaped shrouds to prevent fines and other debris from reaching the analyzer. A tube with a miniature bellows (to provide flexibility) is connected to the bit and directs the flow of the volatiles to the analyzer. Another modality was conceived where the hose is connected to the bellows wall directly to allow the capture of volatiles generated both inside and outside the bit. A wide variety of commercial bellows used in the vacuum and microwave industries can be used to design the volatiles capture mechanism. The piezoelectric drilling mechanism can potentially be operated in a broad temperature range from about-200 to less than 450 C. The actuators used here are similar to the actuators that are currently baselined to fly as part of the inlet funnel shaking mechanism design of MSL (Mars Science Laboratory). The space qualification of these parts gives this drill a higher potential for inclusion in a future mission, especially when considering its characteristics of low mass, small size, low power, and low axial loads for sampling.

What is an Oceanic Core Complex?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schroeder, T.; Cheadle, M. J.

2007-12-01

The Mid-Atlantic Ridge (MAR) 75km north and south of the 15-20 Fracture Zone (FZ) has produced upper oceanic lithosphere composed dominantly of mantle peridotite with gabbro intrusions. In the absence of diapirism, mantle peridotite can only be exposed on the seafloor by extensional faulting, thus the sea floor geology and bathymetry provide widespread evidence for extensive low-angle faulting. However, only 3% of the seafloor in this region has the domal morphology characteristic of features that have been termed oceanic core complexes; suggesting that other processes, in addition to low-angle faulting, are responsible for the generation of domal core complexes. Most low-angle faults near the 15-20 FZ form gently dipping (10-15°), 10-15km-wide dip slopes on the flanks of 2000m relief bathymetric ridges that are up to 15-40km long (parallel to the MAR). Core recovered from ODP Leg 209 drill holes in these ridges is dominantly peridotite with small (<50m thick) gabbro intrusions. The peridotite is cut by a very high density of brittle faults dipping at both steep and gentle angles. Several holes also contain long-lived shear zones/faults in their upper reaches in which strain was localized at granulite facies, indicated by mylonitic olivine and cpx, and remained active during cooling to sub-greenschist grade, indicated by cross-cutting of progressively lower-grade syn-deformation mineral assemblages. These observations suggest that seafloor spreading is largely accommodated here by slip on low-angle faults, and that these faults are correctly termed detachment faults. Holes drilled into a domal oceanic core complex north of the 15-20 FZ during Leg 209 (ODP Site 1275) recovered dominantly gabbro and not mantle peridotite. This hole is cut by significantly fewer brittle and ductile faults than the peridotite drilled at the non-core-complex detachment fault sites. The detachment fault in the upper reaches (50m) of Site 1275 was localized at temperatures near feldspar's ductile-to-brittle transition, indicated by cataclasis with minor crystal plastic flow in plagioclase, and a lack of pervasive pure-ductile deformation. Amphibole-plagioclase thermometry in the fault yields equilibrium temperatures from 600-650°C, compared to equilibrium temperatures of 750-850°C for the gabbro outside the fault. The presence of talc- chlorite schists and cataclasites cutting the higher-temperature deformation textures indicate fault activity down- temperature from amphibolite through greenschist facies. This core-complex-bounding fault contrasts with the fault that bounds the Atlantis Bank Core Complex on the Southwest Indian Ridge (SWIR). There, the fault is 100m thick and strain was initially localized at granulite grade (>800°C) (Mehl & Hirth, 2007); significantly hotter than the Site 1275 fault. Therefore, the formation of core-complex morphology does not seem to depend on the initial faulting conditions. Both oceanic core complexes that have been drilled besides Site 1275, Atlantis Massif at 30°N (IODP Hole 1309D) on the MAR and Atlantis Bank on the SWIR (ODP Hole 735B), are also comprised dominantly of gabbro. This suggests that magma supply may be an essential requirement for core complex formation and raises the question whether all domal oceanic core complexes are cored by gabbro? We also ask whether the term 'oceanic core complex' should be restricted to these domal features and not applied to detachment-bound, non- domal, peridotite-cored ridges; or if these should be considered two sub-classes of oceanic core complexes.

Fischer Assays of Oil-Shale Drill Cores and Rotary Cuttings from the Greater Green River Basin, Southwestern Wyoming

USGS Publications Warehouse

,

2008-01-01

Chapter 1 of this CD-ROM is a database of digitized Fischer (shale-oil) assays of cores and cuttings from boreholes drilled in the Eocene Green River oil shale deposits in southwestern Wyoming. Assays of samples from some surface sections are also included. Most of the Fischer assay analyses were made by the former U.S. Bureau of Mines (USBM) at its laboratory in Laramie, Wyoming. Other assays, made by institutional or private laboratories, were donated to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and are included in this database as well as Adobe PDF-scanned images of some of the original laboratory assay reports and lithologic logs prepared by USBM geologists. The size of this database is 75.2 megabytes and includes information on 971 core holes and rotary-drilled boreholes and numerous surface sections. Most of these data were released previously by the USBM and the USGS through the National Technical Information Service but are no longer available from that agency. Fischer assays for boreholes in northeastern Utah and northwestern Colorado have been published by the USGS. Additional data include geophysical logs, groundwater data, chemical and X-ray diffraction analyses, and other data. These materials are available for inspection in the office of the USGS Central Energy Resources Team in Lakewood, Colorado. The digitized assays were checked with the original laboratory reports, but some errors likely remain. Other information, such as locations and elevations of core holes and oil and gas tests, were not thoroughly checked. However, owing to the current interest in oil-shale development, it was considered in the public interest to make this preliminary database available at this time. Chapter 2 of this CD-ROM presents oil-yield histograms of samples of cores and cuttings from exploration drill holes in the Eocene Green River Formation in the Great Divide, Green River, and Washakie Basins of southwestern Wyoming. A database was compiled that includes about 47,000 Fischer assays from 186 core holes and 240 rotary drill holes. Most of the oil yield data are from analyses performed by the former U.S. Bureau of Mines oil shale laboratory in Laramie, Wyoming, with some analyses made by private laboratories. Location data for 971 Wyoming oil-shale drill holes are listed in a spreadsheet that is included in the CD-ROM. These Wyoming Fischer assays and histograms are part of a much larger collection of oil-shale information, including geophysical and lithologic logs, water data, chemical and X-ray diffraction analyses on the Green River oil-shale deposits in Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming held by the U.S. Geological Survey. Because of an increased interest in oil shale, this CD-ROM containing Fischer assay data and oil-yield histograms for the Green River oil-shale deposits in southwestern Wyoming is being released to the public. Microsoft Excel spreadsheets included with Chapter 2 contain the Fischer assay data from the 426 holes and data on the company name and drill-hole name, and location. Histograms of the oil yields obtained from the Fischer assays are presented in both Grapher and PDF format. Fischer assay text data files are also included in the CD-ROM.

Publications - GMC 130 | Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical

Science.gov Websites

DGGS GMC 130 Publication Details Title: Total organic carbon and rock-eval pyrolysis data of cuttings Reference Unknown, 1989, Total organic carbon and rock-eval pyrolysis data of cuttings and core from the Report Report Information gmc130.pdf (208.0 K) Keywords Pyrolysis; Rock-Eval Pyrolysis Top of Page

Randomized comparison of power Doppler ultrasonography-guided core-needle biopsy with open surgical biopsy for the characterization of lymphadenopathies in patients with suspected lymphoma.

PubMed

Pugliese, Novella; Di Perna, M; Cozzolino, I; Ciancia, G; Pettinato, G; Zeppa, P; Varone, V; Masone, S; Cerchione, C; Della Pepa, R; Simeone, L; Giordano, C; Martinelli, V; Salvatore, C; Pane, F; Picardi, M

2017-04-01

The sensitivity of lymph node core-needle biopsy under imaging guidance requires validation. We employed power Doppler ultrasonography (PDUS) to select the lymph node most suspected of malignancy and to histologically characterize it through the use of large cutting needle. Institutional review board approval and informed consent were obtained for this randomized clinical trial. In a single center between 1 January 2009 and 31 December 2015, patients with lymph node enlargement suspected for lymphoma were randomly assigned (1:1) to biopsy with either standard surgery or PDUS-guided 16-gauge modified Menghini needle. The primary endpoint was the superiority of sensitivity for the diagnosis of malignancy for core-needle cutting biopsy (CNCB). Secondary endpoints were times to biopsy, complications, and costs. A total of 376 patients were randomized into the two arms and received allocated biopsy. However, four patients undergoing CNCB were excluded for inadequate samples; thus, 372 patients were analyzed. Sensitivity for the detection of malignancy was significantly better for PDUS-guided CNCB [98.8%; 95% confidence interval (CI), 95.9-99.9] than standard biopsy (88.7%; 95% CI, 82.9-93; P < 0.001). For all secondary endpoints, the comparison was significantly disadvantageous for conventional approach. In particular, estimated cost per biopsy performed with standard surgery was 24-fold higher compared with that performed with CNCB. The presence of satellite enlarged reactive and/or necrotic lymph nodes may impair the success of an open surgical biopsy (OSB). PDUS and CNCB with adequate gauge are diagnostic tools that enable effective, safe, fast, and low-cost routine biopsy for patients with suspected lymphoma, avoiding psychological and physical pain of an unnecessary surgical intervention.

On the optimization of mitred overlaps in transformer cores

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bengtsson, C.; Pfützner, H.; Schönhuber, P.

1989-05-01

The influence of the overlap length a on the no-load loss P and excitation power S of single phase model cores was measured for different sheet widths w. It was found that the optimum overlap length a0 shows a non-linear increase with w. The appearance of such minima, however, was irregular, and in many cases, the lowest no-load loss was obtained at the smallest investigated overlap length, an effect which may result from the assembling conditions. Minima in P will appear as a consequence of a balance between loss contributions resulting from normal flux in the overlap region, from increased longitudinal flux due to flux transfer between sheets, and from the triangular cut-outs at the inner corners of the cores. However, the dependence of a0 on w is attributed only to the triangular cut-outs. The flatness of the minima in combination with their irregular appearance, makes the effect difficult to be used in practice. It is concluded that in power transformers, the overlap length should be chosen as small as possible within the limitations set by stability requirements of the core. This is especially important in cores with a high operating flux density.

Rapid ice drilling with continual air transport of cuttings and cores: General concept

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Rusheng; An, Liu; Cao, Pinlu; Chen, Baoyi; Sysoev, Mikhail; Fan, Dayou; Talalay, Pavel G.

2017-12-01

This article describes the investigation of the feasibility of rapid drilling in ice sheets and glaciers to depths of up to 600 m, with cuttings and cores continually transported by air reverse circulation. The method employs dual wall drill rods. The inner tubes provide a continuous pathway for the chips and cores from the drill bit face to the surface. To modify air reverse circulation drilling technology according to the conditions of a specific glacier, original cutter drill bits and air processing devices (air-cooled aftercoolers, air receivers, coalescing filters, desiccant dryers) should be used. The airflow velocity for conveying a 60-mm diameter and 200-mm long ice core should not be lower than 22.5 m/s, and the minimal airflow rate for continual chip and cores transport is 6.8 m3/min at 2.3-2.6 MPa. Drilling of a 600-m deep hole can be accomplished within 1.5 days in the case of 24 h drilling operations. However, to avoid sticking while drilling through ice, the drilling depth should to be limited to 540 m at a temperature of -20 °C and to 418 m at a temperature of -10 °C.

A simple and inexpensive technique for assessing microbial contamination during drilling operations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Friese, André; Vuillemin, Aurèle; Kallmeyer, Jens; Wagner, Dirk

2016-04-01

Exploration of the Deep Biosphere relies on drilling, which inevitably causes infiltration of drilling fluids, containing allochthonous microbes from the surface, into the core. Therefore it is absolutely necessary to trace contamination of the sediment core in order to identify uncontaminated samples for microbiological investigations. Several techniques have been used in the past, including fluorescent dyes, perfluorocarbon tracers and fluorescent microspheres. Fluorescent dyes are inexpensive and easy to analyze on-site but are sensitive to light, pH and water chemistry. Furthermore, significant sorption to clays can decrease the fluorescence signal. Perfluorocarbon tracers are chemically inert hydrophobic compounds that can be detected with high sensitivity via gas chromatography, which might be a problem for on-site analysis. Samples have to be taken immediately after core retrieval as otherwise the volatile tracer will have diffused out of the core. Microsphere tracers are small (0.2 - 0.5 μm diameter) fluorescent plastic particles that are mixed into the drilling fluid. For analysis, these particles can be extracted from the sediment sample, transferred onto a filter and quantified via fluorescence microscopy. However, they are very expensive and therefore unsuitable for deep drilling operations that need large amounts of drilling fluids. Here, we present an inexpensive contamination control approach using fluorescent pigments initially used for coloring plastics. The price of this tracer is nearly three orders of magnitude lower than conventional microsphere tracers. Its suitability for large drilling campaigns was tested at the ICDP Deep Drilling at Lake Towuti, Sulawesi, Indonesia. The tracer was diluted 1:1000 in lake water, which was used as the drilling fluid. Additionally, a plastic bag filled with 20 mL of undiluted tracer was attached to the core catcher to increase the amount of particles in the liner fluid right at the core. After core retrieval, the core was cut and the liner fluid collected. From each whole round core (WRC) that was taken for microbiological and biogeochemical analyses, small samples of 1 cc were retrieved with sterile cutoff syringes from the rim, the center and an intermediate position. After dilution and homogenization in 9 mL MilliQ water, 10 μL of the sediment slurry was transferred onto a filter membrane and particles counted via fluorescence microscopy. Additionally, particles in the liner fluid were also quantified. This allows the quantification of the amount of drilling fluid that has entered the sediment sample during drilling. The minimum detectable volume of drilling fluid was in the order of single nanoliters per cc of sediment, which is in the range of established techniques. The presented method requires only a minimum of equipment and allows rapid determination of contamination in the sediment core and an easy to handle on-site analysis at low costs. The sensitivity is in the same range as perfluorocarbon and microsphere tracer applications. Thus, it offers an inexpensive but powerful technique for contamination assessment for future drilling campaigns.

Thermal degradation products from PVC film in food-wrapping operations.

PubMed

Boettner, E A; Ball, G L

1980-07-01

Thermal degradation products of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) food-wrap films were studied under simulated supermarket conditons using a commercial wrapping machine with either a hot wire or a cool rod cutting device. A sampling hood was constructed around the wire/rod to confine and allow collection of thermal degradation products produced. Compounds analyzed and normal concentration ranges found included hydrogen chloride (1-10 micrograms per cut), plasticizer (1-50 micrograms per cut), benzene and toluene (each < 5-20 ng per cut), acrolein (25-150 ng per cut), and carbon monoxide (2-4 micrograms per cut) using the hot wire. Room air samples, collected during hot-wire cutting without the sampling hood, had < 0.25 ppm hydrogen chloride. Using the cool-rod cutting device hydrogen chloride, benzene, and toluene were not detected. Plasticizer was detected (25-86 micrograms per cut) using the cool rod.

High resolution study of petroleum source rock variation, Lower Cretaceous (Hauterivian and Barremian) of Mikkelsen Bay, North Slope, Alaska

USGS Publications Warehouse

Keller, Margaret A.; Macquaker, Joe H.S.; Lillis, Paul G.

2001-01-01

Open File Report 01-480 was designed as a large format poster for the Annual Meeting of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists and the Society for Sedimentary Geology in Denver Colorado in June 2001. It is reproduced here in digital format to make widely available some unique images of mudstones. The images include description, interpretation, and Rock-Eval data that resulted from a high-resolution study of petroleum source rock variation of the Lower Cretaceous succession of the Mobil-Phillips Mikkelsen Bay State #1 well on the North Slope of Alaska. Our mudstone samples with Rock-Eval data plus color images are significant because they come from one of the few continuously cored and complete intervals of the Lower Cretaceous succession on the North Slope. This succession, which is rarely preserved in outcrop and very rarely cored in the subsurface, is considered to include important petroleum source rocks that have not previously been described nor explained Another reason these images are unique is that the lithofacies variability within mudstone dominated successions is relatively poorly known in comparison with that observed in coarser clastic and carbonate successions. They are also among the first published scans of thin sections of mudstone, and are of excellent quality because the sections are well made, cut perpendicular to bedding, and unusually thin, 20 microns. For each of 15 samples, we show a thin section scan (cm scale) and an optical photomicrograph (mm scale) that illustrates the variability present. Several backscattered SEM images are also shown. Rock-Eval data for the samples can be compared with the textures and mineralogy present by correlating sample numbers and core depth.

The SPAI-18, a brief version of the social phobia and anxiety inventory: reliability and validity in clinically referred and non-referred samples.

PubMed

de Vente, Wieke; Majdandžić, Mirjana; Voncken, Marisol J; Beidel, Deborah C; Bögels, Susan M

2014-03-01

We developed a new version of the Social Phobia and Anxiety Inventory (SPAI) in order to have a brief instrument for measuring social anxiety and social anxiety disorder (SAD) with a strong conceptual foundation. In the construction phase, a set of items representing 5 core aspects of social anxiety was selected by a panel of social anxiety experts. The selected item pool was validated using factor analysis, reliability analysis, and diagnostic analysis in a sample of healthy participants (N = 188) and a sample of clinically referred participants diagnosed with SAD (N = 98). This procedure resulted in an abbreviated version of the Social Phobia Subscale of the SPAI consisting of 18 items (i.e. the SPAI-18), which correlated strongly with the Social Phobia Subscale of the original SPAI (both groups r = .98). Internal consistency and diagnostic characteristics using a clinical cut-off score > 48 were good to excellent (Cronbach's alpha healthy group = .93; patient group = .91; sensitivity: .94; specificity: .88). The SPAI-18 was further validated in a community sample of parents-to-be without SAD (N = 237) and with SAD (N = 65). Internal consistency was again excellent (both groups Cronbach's alpha = .93) and a screening cut-off of > 36 proved to result in good sensitivity and specificity. The SPAI-18 also correlated strongly with other social anxiety instruments, supporting convergent validity. In sum, the SPAI-18 is a psychometrically sound instrument with good screening capacity for social anxiety disorder in clinical as well as community samples. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Sampling and Analysis of Impact Crater Residues found on the Wide Field Planetary Camera-2 Radiator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kearsley, A. T.; Grime, G. W.; Colaux, J. L.; Jeynes, C.; Palitsin, V. V.; Webb, R. P.; Griffin, T. J.; Reed, B. B.; Anz-Meador, P. D.; Kou, J.-C.;

Drill cutting and core major, trace and rare earth element anlayses from wells RN-17B and RN-30, Reykjanes, Iceland

DOE Data Explorer

Andrew Fowler

2015-05-01

Analytical results for x-ray fluorescence (XRF) and Inductively Couple Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) measurement of major, trace and rare earth elements in drill cuttings from geothermal wells in Reykjanes, Iceland. Total Fe was analyzed as FeO, therefore is not included under the Fe2O3 column.

Petrophysics Features of the Hydrocarbon Reservoirs in the Precambrian Crystalline Basement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Plotnikova, Irina

2014-05-01

A prerequisite for determining the distribution patterns of reservoir zones on the section of crystalline basement (CB) is the solution of a number of problems connected with the study of the nature and structure of empty spaces of reservoirs with crystalline basement (CB) and the impact of petrological, and tectonic factors and the intensity of the secondary transformation of rocks. We decided to choose the Novoelhovskaya well # 20009 as an object of our research because of the following factors. Firstly, the depth of the drilling of the Precambrian crystalline rocks was 4077 m ( advance heading - 5881 m) and it is a maximum for the Volga-Urals region. Secondly, petrographic cut of the well is made on core and waste water, and the latter was sampled regularly and studied macroscopically. Thirdly, a wide range of geophysical studies were performed for this well, which allowed to identify promising areas of collector with high probability. Fourth, along with geological and technical studies that were carried out continuously (including washing and bore hole redressing periods), the studies of the gaseous component of deep samples of clay wash were also carried out, which indirectly helped us estimate reservoir properties and fluid saturation permeable zones. As a result of comprehensive analysis of the stone material and the results of the geophysical studies we could confidently distinguish 5 with strata different composition and structure in the cut of the well. The dominating role in each of them is performed by rocks belonging to one of the structural-material complexes of Archean, and local variations in composition and properties are caused by later processes of granitization on different stages and high temperature diaphthoresis imposed on them. Total capacity of reservoir zones identified according to geophysical studies reached 1034.2 m, which corresponds to 25.8% of the total capacity of 5 rock masses. However, the distribution of reservoirs within the cut is uneven. The manifestation of reservoir properties of crystalline rocks and their gas content is to a high degree connected with those parts of the cut of the well that are represented by Bolshecheremshanskaya series of rocks. The analysis of the distribution of reservoir intervals that were identified in the well section # 20009 according to the geophysical studies showed that they tend to coincide with the intervals of intensive secondary changes and rock breaking, or with contacts of series of rocks or thick layers of rocks that differ greatly in physical and mechanical properties. About half of the potential reservoir zones are characterized by explicit, well-defined fractures, which was determined according to core and wastewater samples, as well as with the help of caliper gauge. The rocks of a Bolshecheremshanskaya series were more exposed to the repeated impact of the parallel processes (mylonitization, diaphtoresis, migmatization, etc.), or they were simply more affected by these processes, and that led to the characteristic distribution of collector areas, temperature and gas anomalies along the borehole cut. The presence of Bolshecheremshanskaya quartz series in the material composition of the rocks caused, firstly, increased amount of fractures, and secondly, the preservation of the porous-cavernous space frame within the superimposed secondary processes.

Publications - GMC 170 | Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical

Science.gov Websites

core (7902'-7918') from the Atlantic Richfield Co. Itkillik River Unit #1 well Authors: Pawlewicz, Mark Reference Pawlewicz, Mark, 1990, Vitrinite reflectance data of cuttings (5200'-15310') and of core (7902 '-7918') from the Atlantic Richfield Co. Itkillik River Unit #1 well: Alaska Division of Geological &

Assessing heat treatment of chicken breast cuts by impedance spectroscopy.

PubMed

Schmidt, Franciny C; Fuentes, Ana; Masot, Rafael; Alcañiz, Miguel; Laurindo, João B; Barat, José M

2017-03-01

The aim of this work was to develop a new system based on impedance spectroscopy to assess the heat treatment of previously cooked chicken meat by two experiments; in the first, samples were cooked at different temperatures (from 60 to 90 ℃) until core temperature of the meat reached the water bath temperature. In the second approach, temperature was 80 ℃ and the samples were cooked for different times (from 5 to 55 min). Impedance was measured once samples had cooled. The examined processing parameters were the maximum temperature reached in thermal centre of the samples, weight loss, moisture and the integral of the temperature profile during the cooking-cooling process. The correlation between the processing parameters and impedance was studied by partial least square regressions. The models were able to predict the studied parameters. Our results are essential for developing a new system to control the technological, sensory and safety aspects of cooked meat products on the whole meat processing line.

Battling through the thermal boundary layer: Deep sampling in ODP Hole 1256D during IODP Expedition 335

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ildefonse, B.; Teagle, D. A.; Blum, P.; IODP Expedition 335 Scientists

2011-12-01

IODP Expedition 335 "Superfast Spreading Rate Crust 4" returned to ODP Hole 1256D with the intent of deepening this reference penetration of intact ocean crust several hundred meters into cumulate gabbros. This was the fourth cruise of the superfast campaign to understand the formation of oceanic crust accreted at fast spreading ridges, by exploiting the inverse relationship between spreading rate and the depth to low velocity zones seismically imaged at active mid-ocean zones, thought to be magma chambers. Site 1256 is located on 15-million-year-old crust formed at the East Pacific Rise during an episode of superfast ocean spreading (>200 mm/yr full rate). Three earlier cruises to Hole 1256D have drilled through the sediments, lavas and dikes and 100 m into a complex dike-gabbro transition zone. The specific objectives of IODP Expedition 335 were to: (1) test models of magmatic accretion at fast spreading ocean ridges; (2) quantify the vigor of hydrothermal cooling of the lower crust; (3) establish the geological meaning of the seismic Layer 2-3 boundary at Site 1256; and (4) estimate the contribution of lower crustal gabbros to marine magnetic anomalies. It was anticipated that even a shortened IODP Expedition could deepen Hole 1256D a significant distance (300 m) into cumulate gabbros. Operations on IODP Expedition 335 proved challenging from the outset with almost three weeks spent re-opening and securing unstable sections of the Hole. When coring commenced, the destruction of a hard-formation C9 rotary coring bit at the bottom of the hole required further remedial operations to remove junk and huge volumes of accumulated drill cuttings. Hole-cleaning operations using junk baskets returned large samples of a contact-metamorphic aureole between the sheeted dikes and a major heat source below. These large (up to 3.5 kg) irregular samples preserve magmatic, hydrothermal and structural relationships hitherto unseen because of the narrow diameter of drill core and previous poor core recovery. Including the ~60 m-thick zone of granoblastic dikes overlying the uppermost gabbro, the dike-gabbro transition zone at Site 1256 is over 170 m thick, of which more than 100 m are recrystallized granoblastic basalts. This zone records a dynamically evolving thermal boundary layer between the principally hydrothermal domain of the upper crust and a deeper zone of intrusive magmatism. The recovered samples document a sequence of evolving geological conditions and the intimate coupling between temporally and spatially intercalated intrusive, hydrothermal, contact-metamorphic, partial melting and retrogressive processes. Despite the operational challenges, we achieved a minor depth advance to 1522 m, but this was insufficient penetration to complete any of the primary objectives. However, Hole 1256D has been thoroughly cleared of junk and drill cuttings that have hampered operations during this and previous Expeditions. At the end of Expedition 335, we briefly resumed coring and stabilized problematic intervals with cement. Hole 1256D is open to its full depth and ready for further deepening in the near future.

Acoustic properties of a short-finned pilot whale head with insight into temperature influence on tissues' sound velocity.

PubMed

Dong, Jianchen; Song, Zhongchang; Li, Songhai; Gong, Zining; Li, Kuan; Zhang, Peijun; Zhang, Yu; Zhang, Meng

2017-10-01

Acoustic properties of odontocete head tissues, including sound velocity, density, and acoustic impedance, are important parameters to understand dynamics of its echolocation. In this paper, acoustic properties of head tissues from a freshly dead short-finned pilot whale (Globicephala macrorhynchus) were reconstructed using computed tomography (CT) and ultrasound. The animal's forehead soft tissues were cut into 188 ordered samples. Sound velocity, density, and acoustic impedance of each sample were either directly measured or calculated by formula, and Hounsfield Unit values (HUs) were obtained from CT scanning. According to relationships between HUs and sound velocity, HUs and density, as well as HUs and acoustic impedance, distributions of acoustic properties in the head were reconstructed. The inner core in the melon with low-sound velocity and low-density is an evidence for its potential function of sound focusing. The increase in acoustic impedance of forehead tissues from inner core to outer layer may be important for the acoustic impedance matching between the outer layer tissue and seawater. In addition, temperature dependence of sound velocity in soft tissues was also examined. The results provide a guide to the simulation of the sound emission of the short-finned pilot whale.

Nitrogen partitioning during core-mantle differentiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Speelmanns, I. M.; Schmidt, M. W.; Liebske, C.

2016-12-01

This study investiagtes nitrogen partitioing between metal and silicate melts as relevant for core segregation during the accretion of planetesimals into the Earth. On present day Earth, N belongs to the most important elements, as it is one of the key constituents of our atmosphere and forms the basis of life. However, the geochemistry of N, i.e. its distribution and isotopic fractionation between Earth's deep reservoirs is not well constrained. In order to determine the partitioning behaviour of N, a centrifuging piston cylinder was used to euqilibrate and then gravitationally separate metal-silicate melt pairs at 1250 °C, 1 GPa over the range of oxygen fugacities thought to have prevailied druing core segreagtion (IW-4 to IW). Complete segregation of the two melts was reached within 3 hours at 1000 g, the interface showing a nice meniscus The applied double capsule technique, using an outer metallic and inner non-metallic (mostly graphite) capsule, minimizes volatile loss over the course of the experiment compared to single non-metallic capsules. The two quenched melts were cut apart, cleaned at the outside and N concentrations of the melts were analysed on bulk samples by an elemental analyser. Nevertheless, the low amount of sample material and the N yield in the high pressure experiments required the developement of new analytical routines. Despite these experimental and analytical difficulties, we were able to determine a DNmetal/silicateof 13±0.25 at IW-1, N partitioning into the core froming metal. The few availible literature data [1],[2] suggest that N changes its compatibility favoring the silicate melt or magma ocean at around IW-2.5. In order to asses how much N may effectively be contained in the core and the silicate Earth, experiments characterizing N behaviour over the entire range of core formation condtitions are well under way. [1] Kadik et al., (2011) Geochemistry International 49.5: 429-438. [2] Roskosz et al., (2013) GCA 121: 15-28.

Using DSDP/ODP/IODP core photographs and digital images in the classroom

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pereira, Hélder; Berenguer, Jean-Luc

2017-04-01

Since the late 1960's, several scientific ocean drilling programmes have been uncovering the history of the Earth hidden beneath the seafloor. The adventure began in 1968 with the Deep Sea Drilling Project (DSDP) and its special drill ship, the Glomar Challenger. The next stage was the Ocean Drilling Program (ODP) launched in 1985 with a new drill ship, the JOIDES Resolution. The exploration of the ocean seafloor continued, between 2003 and 2013, through the Integrated Ocean Drilling Program (IODP). During that time, in addition to the JOIDES Resolution, operated by the US, the scientists had at their service the Chikyu, operated by Japan, and Mission-Specific-Platforms, funded and implemented by the European Consortium for Ocean Research Drilling. Currently, scientific ocean drilling continues through the collaboration of scientists from 25 nations within the International Ocean Discovery Program (IODP). Over the last 50 years, the scientific ocean drilling expeditions conducted by these programmes have drilled and cored more than 3500 holes. The numerous sediment and rock samples recovered from the ocean floor have provided important insight on the active biological, chemical, and geological processes that have shaped the Earth over millions of years. During an expedition, once the 9.5-meter long cores arrive from the seafloor, the technicians label and cut them into 1.5-meter sections. Next, the shipboard scientists perform several analysis using non-destructive methods. Afterward, the technicians split the cores into two halves, the "working half", which scientists sample and use aboard the drilling platform, and the "archive half", which is kept in untouched condition after being visually described and photographed with a digital imaging system. The shipboard photographer also takes several close-up pictures of the archive-half core sections. This work presents some examples of how teachers can use DSDP/ODP/IODP core photographs and digital images, available through the Janus and LIMS online databases, to develop inquiry-based learning activities for secondary level students.

Laser cutting of sodium silicate glasses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Buchanov, V. V.; Kazarian, M. A.; Kustov, M. E.; Mashir, Yu. I.; Murav'ev, E. N.; Revenko, V. I.; Solinov, E. F.

2018-04-01

The problems of through laser cutting of sodium silicate glasses by laser-controlled thermal cleavage are considered. A wide variety of obtained end face shapes is demonstrated. It is shown that the strength of glass samples cut by the laser is about two times higher than that of samples cut by a glass cutter.

Laboratory Equipment for Investigation of Coring Under Mars-like Conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zacny, K.; Cooper, G.

2004-12-01

To develop a suitable drill bit and set of operating conditions for Mars sample coring applications, it is essential to make tests under conditions that match those of the mission. The goal of the laboratory test program was to determine the drilling performance of diamond-impregnated bits under simulated Martian conditions, particularly those of low pressure and low temperature in a carbon dioxide atmosphere. For this purpose, drilling tests were performed in a vacuum chamber kept at a pressure of 5 torr. Prior to drilling, a rock, soil or a clay sample was cooled down to minus 80 degrees Celsius (Zacny et al, 2004). Thus, all Martian conditions, except the low gravity were simulated in the controlled environment. Input drilling parameters of interest included the weight on bit and rotational speed. These two independent variables were controlled from a PC station. The dependent variables included the bit reaction torque, the depth of the bit inside the drilled hole and the temperatures at various positions inside the drilled sample, in the center of the core as it was being cut and at the bit itself. These were acquired every second by a data acquisition system. Additional information such as the rate of penetration and the drill power were calculated after the test was completed. The weight of the rock and the bit prior to and after the test were measured to aid in evaluating the bit performance. In addition, the water saturation of the rock was measured prior to the test. Finally, the bit was viewed under the Scanning Electron Microscope and the Stereo Optical Microscope. The extent of the bit wear and its salient features were captured photographically. The results revealed that drilling or coring under Martian conditions in a water saturated rock is different in many respects from drilling on Earth. This is mainly because the Martian atmospheric pressure is in the vicinity of the pressure at the triple point of water. Thus ice, heated by contact with the rotating bit, sublimed and released water vapor. The volumetric expansion of ice turning into a vapor was over 150 000 times. This continuously generated volume of gas effectively cleared the freeze-dried rock cuttings from the bottom of the hole. In addition, the subliming ice provided a powerful cooling effect that kept the bit cold and preserved the core in its original state. Keeping the rock core below freezing also reduced drastically the chances of cross contamination. To keep the bit cool in near vacuum conditions where convective cooling is poor, some intermittent stops would have to be made. Under virtually the same drilling conditions, coring under Martian low temperature and pressure conditions consumed only half the power while doubling the rate of penetration as compared to drilling under Earth atmospheric conditions. However, the rate of bit wear was much higher under Martian conditions (Zacny and Cooper, 2004) References Zacny, K. A., M. C. Quayle, and G. A. Cooper (2004), Laboratory drilling under Martian conditions yields unexpected results, J. Geophys. Res., 109, E07S16, doi:10.1029/2003JE002203. Zacny, K. A., and G. A. Cooper (2004), Investigation of diamond-impregnated drill bit wear while drilling under Earth and Mars conditions, J. Geophys. Res., 109, E07S10, doi:10.1029/2003JE002204. Acknowledgments The research supported by the NASA Astrobiology, Science and Technology Instrument Development (ASTID) program.

Hydrocarbon source potential of the Tanezzuft Formation, Murzuq Basin, south-west Libya: An organic geochemical approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

El Diasty, W. Sh.; El Beialy, S. Y.; Anwari, T. A.; Batten, D. J.

2017-06-01

A detailed organic geochemical study of 20 core and cuttings samples collected from the Silurian Tanezzuft Formation, Murzuq Basin, in the south-western part of Libya has demonstrated the advantages of pyrolysis geochemical methods for evaluating the source-rock potential of this geological unit. Rock-Eval pyrolysis results indicate a wide variation in source richness and quality. The basal Hot Shale samples proved to contain abundant immature to early mature kerogen type II/III (oil-gas prone) that had been deposited in a marine environment under terrigenous influence, implying good to excellent source rocks. Strata above the Hot Shale yielded a mixture of terrigenous and marine type III/II kerogen (gas-oil prone) at the same maturity level as the Hot Shale, indicating the presence of only poor to fair source rocks.

High-speed fiber laser cutting of thick stainless steel for dismantling tasks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shin, Jae Sung; Oh, Seong Yong; Park, Hyunmin; Chung, Chin-Man; Seon, Sangwoo; Kim, Taek-Soo; Lee, Lim; Choi, Byung-Seon; Moon, Jei-Kwon

2017-09-01

A high-speed fiber laser cutting technology of thick steels for dismantling tasks was achieved using a 6-kW fiber laser system. At first, a new cutting head for efficient cutting of thick steels was developed, which was composed by a collimator with a focal length of 160 mm and mirror-type focusing objects with a long focal length of 600 mm. The long focal length of the focusing object made it possible for the beam size to be small through the thick cutting material and the cutting efficiency was expected to increase compared with the short focal length. In addition, folding the beam facilitated the compact cutting head with a size of 160 mm (width) × 80 mm (height) × 640 mm (length) and a weight of 6.9 kg. In the cutting experiment, the laser beam was delivered to the cutting head by a 25-m long process fiber with a core diameter of 100 μm. The cutting performances were studied against the thicknesses of stainless steel plates. A maximum cutting speed of 72 mm/min was obtained for the 60-mm thick stainless steel plate cutting and the cut specimen showed an excellent kerf shape and a narrow kerf width. To the best of our knowledge, this cutting speed was higher than other previously reported results when cutting with a 6-kW laser power.

Interaction of a turbulent vortex with a lifting surface

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, D. J.; Roberts, L.

1985-01-01

The impulsive noise due to blade-vortex-interaction is analyzing in the time domain for the extreme case when the blade cuts through the center of the vortex core with the assumptions of no distortion of the vortex path or of the vortex core. An analytical turbulent vortex core model, described in terms of the tip aerodynamic parameters, is used and its effects on the unsteady loading and maximum acoustic pressure during the interaction are determined.

Spreadsheet log analysis in subsurface geology

USGS Publications Warehouse

Doveton, J.H.

2000-01-01

Most of the direct knowledge of the geology of the subsurface is gained from the examination of core and drill-cuttings recovered from boreholes drilled by the petroleum and water industries. Wireline logs run in these same boreholes generally have been restricted to tasks of lithostratigraphic correlation and thee location of hydrocarbon pay zones. However, the range of petrophysical measurements has expanded markedly in recent years, so that log traces now can be transformed to estimates of rock composition. Increasingly, logs are available in a digital format that can be read easily by a desktop computer and processed by simple spreadsheet software methods. Taken together, these developments offer accessible tools for new insights into subsurface geology that complement the traditional, but limited, sources of core and cutting observations.

Application of uniaxial confining-core clamp with hydrous pyrolysis in petrophysical and geochemical studies of source rocks at various thermal maturities

USGS Publications Warehouse

Lewan, Michael D.; Birdwell, Justin E.; Baez, Luis; Beeney, Ken; Sonnenberg, Steve

2013-01-01

Understanding changes in petrophysical and geochemical parameters during source rock thermal maturation is a critical component in evaluating source-rock petroleum accumulations. Natural core data are preferred, but obtaining cores that represent the same facies of a source rock at different thermal maturities is seldom possible. An alternative approach is to induce thermal maturity changes by laboratory pyrolysis on aliquots of a source-rock sample of a given facies of interest. Hydrous pyrolysis is an effective way to induce thermal maturity on source-rock cores and provide expelled oils that are similar in composition to natural crude oils. However, net-volume increases during bitumen and oil generation result in expanded cores due to opening of bedding-plane partings. Although meaningful geochemical measurements on expanded, recovered cores are possible, the utility of the core for measuring petrophysical properties relevant to natural subsurface cores is not suitable. This problem created during hydrous pyrolysis is alleviated by using a stainless steel uniaxial confinement clamp on rock cores cut perpendicular to bedding fabric. The clamp prevents expansion just as overburden does during natural petroleum formation in the subsurface. As a result, intact cores can be recovered at various thermal maturities for the measurement of petrophysical properties as well as for geochemical analyses. This approach has been applied to 1.7-inch diameter cores taken perpendicular to the bedding fabric of a 2.3- to 2.4-inch thick slab of Mahogany oil shale from the Eocene Green River Formation. Cores were subjected to hydrous pyrolysis at 360 °C for 72 h, which represents near maximum oil generation. One core was heated unconfined and the other was heated in the uniaxial confinement clamp. The unconfined core developed open tensile fractures parallel to the bedding fabric that result in a 38 % vertical expansion of the core. These open fractures did not occur in the confined core, but short, discontinuous vertical fractures on the core periphery occurred as a result of lateral expansion.

Paper-cutting operations using scissors in Drury's law tasks.

PubMed

Yamanaka, Shota; Miyashita, Homei

2018-05-01

Human performance modeling is a core topic in ergonomics. In addition to deriving models, it is important to verify the kinds of tasks that can be modeled. Drury's law is promising for path tracking tasks such as navigating a path with pens or driving a car. We conducted an experiment based on the observation that paper-cutting tasks using scissors resemble such tasks. The results showed that cutting arc-like paths (1/4 of a circle) showed an excellent fit with Drury's law (R 2  > 0.98), whereas cutting linear paths showed a worse fit (R 2  > 0.87). Since linear paths yielded better fits when path amplitudes were divided (R 2  > 0.99 for all amplitudes), we discuss the characteristics of paper-cutting operations using scissors. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

7 CFR 28.908 - Samples.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

.... (1) Each cut sample shall be drawn from the bale after it is tied out following the ginning process.... (2) Where it is necessary to draw two sets of samples, a single cut should be made in each side of the bale, and the portion of cotton removed from each cut should be broken in half across the layers...

University of TX Bureau of Economic Geology's Core Research Centers: The Time is Right for Registering Physical Samples and Assigning IGSN's - Workflows, Stumbling Blocks, and Successes.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Averett, A.; DeJarnett, B. B.

2016-12-01

The University Of Texas Bureau Of Economic Geology (BEG) serves as the geological survey for Texas and operates three geological sample repositories that house well over 2 million boxes of geological samples (cores and cuttings) and an abundant amount of geoscience data (geophysical logs, thin sections, geochemical analyses, etc.). Material is accessible and searchable online, and it is publically available to the geological community for research and education. Patrons access information about our collection by using our online core and log database (SQL format). BEG is currently undertaking a large project to: 1) improve the internal accuracy of metadata associated with the collection; 2) enhance the capabilities of the database for both BEG curators and researchers as well as our external patrons; and 3) ensure easy and efficient navigation for patrons through our online portal. As BEG undertakes this project, BEG is in the early stages of planning to export the metadata for its collection into SESAR (System for Earth Sample Registration) and have IGSN's (International GeoSample Numbers) assigned to its samples. Education regarding the value of IGSN's and an external registry (SESAR) has been crucial to receiving management support for the project because the concept and potential benefits of registering samples in a registry outside of the institution were not well-known prior to this project. Potential benefits such as increases in discoverability, repository recognition in publications, and interoperability were presented. The project was well-received by management, and BEG fully supports the effort to register our physical samples with SESAR. Since BEG is only in the initial phase of this project, any stumbling blocks, workflow issues, successes/failures, etc. can only be predicted at this point, but by mid-December, BEG expects to have several concrete issues to present in the session. Currently, our most pressing issue involves establishing the most efficient workflow for exporting of large amounts of metadata in a format that SESAR can easily ingest, and how this can be best accomplished with very few BEG staff assigned to the project.

Tool for Sampling Permafrost on a Remote Planet

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Peters, Gregory

2006-01-01

A report discusses the robotic arm tool for rapidly acquiring permafrost (RATRAP), which is being developed for acquiring samples of permafrost on Mars or another remote planet and immediately delivering the samples to adjacent instruments for analysis. The prototype RATRAP includes a rasp that protrudes through a hole in the bottom of a container that is placed in contact with the permafrost surface. Moving at high speed, the rasp cuts into the surface and loads many of the resulting small particles of permafrost through the hole into the container. The prototype RATRAP has been shown to be capable of acquiring many grams of permafrost simulants in times of the order of seconds. In contrast, a current permafrost sampling system that the RATRAP is intended to supplant works by scraping with tines followed by picking up the scrapings in a scoop, sometimes taking hours to acquire a few grams. Also, because the RATRAP inherently pulverizes the sampled material, it is an attractive alternative to other sampling apparatuses that generate core or chunk samples that must be further processed by a crushing apparatus to make the sample particles small enough for analysis by some instruments.

Resonant tunneling of surface plasmon polariton in the plasmonic nano-cavity.

PubMed

Park, Junghyun; Kim, Hwi; Lee, Il-Min; Kim, Seyoon; Jung, Jaehoon; Lee, Byoungho

2008-10-13

We investigate the reflection and transmission characteristics of the low-dielectric constant cut off barrier in the metal-insulator-metal (MIM) waveguide and propose a novel plasmonic nano-cavity made of two cut off barriers and the waveguide between them. It is shown that the anti-symmetric mode in the MIM waveguide with the core of the low dielectric constant below the specific value cannot be supported and this region can be regarded as a cut off barrier with high stability. The phase shift due to the reflection at the finite-length cut off barrier is calculated and the design scheme of the cavity length for the resonant tunneling is presented. The transmission spectra through the proposed nano-cavity are also discussed.

Dissolution-precipitation reactions and permeability evolution from reactions of CO2-rich aqueous solutions with fractured basalt

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wells, R. K.; Xiong, W.; Bae, Y.; Sesti, E.; Skemer, P. A.; Giammar, D.; Conradi, M.; Ellis, B. R.; Hayes, S. E.

2015-12-01

The injection of CO2 into fractured basalts is one of several possible solutions to mitigate global climate change; however, research on carbonation in natural basalts in relation to carbon sequestration is limited, which impedes our understanding of the processes that may influence the viability of this strategy. We are conducting bench-scale experiments to characterize the mineral dissolution and precipitation and the evolution of permeability in synthetic and natural basalts exposed to CO2-rich fluids. Analytical methods include optical and electron microscopy, electron microprobe, Raman spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and micro X-ray computed tomography (μCT) with variable flow rates. Reactive rock and mineral samples consist of 1) packed powders of olivine or natural basalt, and 2) sintered cores of olivine or a synthetic basalt mixture. Each sample was reacted in a batch reactor at 100 °C, and 100 bars CO2. Magnesite is detected within one day in olivine packed beds, and within 15 days in olivine sintered cores. Forsterite and synthetic basalt sinters were also reacted in an NMR apparatus at 102 °C and 65 bars CO2. Carbonate signatures are observed within 72 days of reaction. Longer reaction times are needed for carbonate precipitation in natural basalt samples. Cores from the Columbia River flood basalt flows that contain Mg-rich olivine and a serpentinized basalt from Colorado were cut lengthwise, the interface mechanically roughened or milled, and edges sealed with epoxy to simulate a fractured interface. The cores were reacted in a batch reactor at 50-150 °C and 100 bars CO2. At lower temperatures, calcite precipitation is rare within the fracture after 4 weeks. At higher temperatures, numerous calcite and aragonite crystals are observed within 1 mm of the fracture entrance along the roughened fracture surface. In flow-through experiments, permeability decreased along the fracture paths within a few hours to several days of flow.

Optimization of Machining Parameters of Milling Operation by Application of Semi-synthetic oil based Nano cutting Fluids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Giri Prasad, M. J.; Abhishek Raaj, A. S.; Rishi Kumar, R.; Gladson, Frank; M, Gautham

2016-09-01

The present study is concerned with resolving the problems pertaining to the conventional cutting fluids. Two samples of nano cutting fluids were prepared by dispersing 0.01 vol% of MWCNTs and a mixture of 0.01 vol% of MWCNTs and 0.01 vol% of nano ZnO in the soluble oil. The thermophysical properties such as the kinematic viscosity, density, flash point and the tribological properties of the prepared nano cutting fluid samples were experimentally investigated and were compared with those of plain soluble oil. In addition to this, a milling process was carried by varying the process parameters and by application of different samples of cutting fluids and an attempt was made to determine optimal cutting condition using the Taguchi optimization technique.

Preliminary evaluation of the shale gas prospectivity of the Lower Cretaceous Pearsall Formation in the onshore Gulf Coast region, United States

USGS Publications Warehouse

Enomoto, Catherine B.; Scott, Kristina; Valentine, Brett J.; Hackley, Paul C.; Dennen, Kristin; Lohr, Celeste D.

2012-01-01

Recent work by the U.S. Geological Survey indicated that the Lower Cretaceous Pearsall Formation contains an estimated mean undiscovered, technically recoverable unconventional gas resource of 8.8 trillion cubic ft in the Maverick Basin, South Texas. Cumulative gas production from horizontal wells in the core area of the emerging play has exceeded 5 billion cubic ft since 2008. However, very little information is available to characterize the Pearsall Formation as an unconventional gas resource beyond the Maverick Basin in the greater Gulf Coast region. Therefore, this reconnaissance study examines spatial distribution, thickness, organic richness and thermal maturity of the Pearsall Formation in the onshore U.S. Gulf states using wireline logs and drill cuttings sample analysis. Spontaneous potential and resistivity curves of approximately forty wireline logs from wells in five Gulf Coast states were correlated to ascertain the thickness of the Pearsall Formation and delineate its three members: Pine Island Shale, James Limestone or Cow Creek Limestone, and Bexar Shale, in ascending stratigraphic order. In Florida and Alabama the Pearsall Formation is up to about 300 ft thick; in Mississippi, Louisiana, Arkansas, and East Texas, thickness is up to as much as 800 ft. Drill cuttings sampled from 11 wells at depths ranging from 4600 to 19,600 feet subsurface indicate increasingly oxygenated depositional environments (predominance of red shale) towards the eastern part of the basin. Cuttings vary widely in lithology but indicate interbedded clastics and limestones throughout the Pearsall Formation, consistent with previous regional studies. Organic petrographic and geochemical analyses of 17 cutting samples in the Pearsall Formation indicate a wide range in thermal maturity, from immature (0.43% Ro [vitrinite reflectance]) in paleo-high structural locations to the peak oil window (0.99% Ro) in the eastern portion of the Gulf Coast Basin. This is in contrast to dry gas thermal maturity throughout the Pearsall Formation in the South Texas Maverick Basin. Organic carbon content is low overall, even in immature samples, with a range of 0.17 to 1.08 wt.% by Leco in 22 Pearsall Formation samples. The pyrolysis output range was 0.23 to 2.33 mg hydrocarbon/g rock. The thermal maturity and Rock-Eval pyrolysis data and organic petrologic observations from this study will be used to better focus specific areas of investigation where the Pearsall Formation may be prospective as an unconventional hydrocarbon source and reservoir.

Strontium Isotopic Composition of Paleozoic Carbonate Rocks in the Nevada Test Site Vicinity, Clark, Lincoln, and Nye Counties, Nevada and Inyo County, California.

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

James B. Paces; Zell E. Peterman; Kiyoto Futa

2007-08-07

Ground water moving through permeable Paleozoic carbonate rocks represents the most likely pathway for migration of radioactive contaminants from nuclear weapons testing at the Nevada Test Site, Nye County, Nevada. The strontium isotopic composition (87Sr/86Sr) of ground water offers a useful means of testing hydrochemical models of regional flow involving advection and reaction. However, reaction models require knowledge of 87Sr/86Sr data for carbonate rock in the Nevada Test Site vicinity, which is scarce. To fill this data gap, samples of core or cuttings were selected from 22 boreholes at depth intervals from which water samples had been obtained previously aroundmore » the Nevada Test Site at Yucca Flat, Frenchman Flat, Rainier Mesa, and Mercury Valley. Dilute acid leachates of these samples were analyzed for a suite of major- and trace-element concentrations (MgO, CaO, SiO2, Al2O3, MnO, Rb, Sr, Th, and U) as well as for 87Sr/86Sr. Also presented are unpublished analyses of 114 Paleozoic carbonate samples from outcrops, road cuts, or underground sites in the Funeral Mountains, Bare Mountain, Striped Hills, Specter Range, Spring Mountains, and ranges east of the Nevada Test Site measured in the early 1990's. These data originally were collected to evaluate the potential for economic mineral deposition at the potential high-level radioactive waste repository site at Yucca Mountain and adjacent areas (Peterman and others, 1994). Samples were analyzed for a suite of trace elements (Rb, Sr, Zr, Ba, La, and Ce) in bulk-rock powders, and 87Sr/86Sr in partial digestions of carbonate rock using dilute acid or total digestions of silicate-rich rocks. Pre-Tertiary core samples from two boreholes in the central or western part of the Nevada Test Site also were analyzed. Data are presented in tables and summarized in graphs; however, no attempt is made to interpret results with respect to ground-water flow paths in this report. Present-day 87Sr/86Sr values are compared to values for Paleozoic seawater present at the time of deposition. Many of the samples have 87Sr/86Sr compositions that remain relatively unmodified from expected seawater values. However, rocks underlying the northern Nevada Test Site as well as rocks exposed at Bare Mountain commonly have elevated 87Sr/86Sr values derived from post-depositional addition of radiogenic Sr most likely from fluids circulating through rubidium-rich Paleozoic strata or Precambrian basement rocks.« less

Strontium Isotopic Composition of Paleozoic Carbonate Rocks in the Nevada Test Site Vicinity, Clark, Lincoln, and Nye Counties, Nevada, and Inyo County, California

USGS Publications Warehouse

Paces, James B.; Peterman, Zell E.; Futo, Kiyoto; Oliver, Thomas A.; Marshall, Brian D.

2007-01-01

Ground water moving through permeable Paleozoic carbonate rocks represents the most likely pathway for migration of radioactive contaminants from nuclear weapons testing at the Nevada Test Site, Nye County, Nevada. The strontium isotopic composition (87Sr/86Sr) of ground water offers a useful means of testing hydrochemical models of regional flow involving advection and reaction. However, reaction models require knowledge of 87Sr/86Sr data for carbonate rock in the Nevada Test Site vicinity, which is scarce. To fill this data gap, samples of core or cuttings were selected from 22 boreholes at depth intervals from which water samples had been obtained previously around the Nevada Test Site at Yucca Flat, Frenchman Flat, Rainier Mesa, and Mercury Valley. Dilute acid leachates of these samples were analyzed for a suite of major- and trace-element concentrations (MgO, CaO, SiO2, Al2O3, MnO, Rb, Sr, Th, and U) as well as for 87Sr/86Sr. Also presented are unpublished analyses of 114 Paleozoic carbonate samples from outcrops, road cuts, or underground sites in the Funeral Mountains, Bare Mountain, Striped Hills, Specter Range, Spring Mountains, and ranges east of the Nevada Test Site measured in the early 1990's. These data originally were collected to evaluate the potential for economic mineral deposition at the potential high-level radioactive waste repository site at Yucca Mountain and adjacent areas (Peterman and others, 1994). Samples were analyzed for a suite of trace elements (Rb, Sr, Zr, Ba, La, and Ce) in bulk-rock powders, and 87Sr/86Sr in partial digestions of carbonate rock using dilute acid or total digestions of silicate-rich rocks. Pre-Tertiary core samples from two boreholes in the central or western part of the Nevada Test Site also were analyzed. Data are presented in tables and summarized in graphs; however, no attempt is made to interpret results with respect to ground-water flow paths in this report. Present-day 87Sr/86Sr values are compared to values for Paleozoic seawater present at the time of deposition. Many of the samples have 87Sr/86Sr compositions that remain relatively unmodified from expected seawater values. However, rocks underlying the northern Nevada Test Site as well as rocks exposed at Bare Mountain commonly have elevated 87Sr/86Sr values derived from post-depositional addition of radiogenic Sr most likely from fluids circulating through rubidium-rich Paleozoic strata or Precambrian basement rocks.

Effects of perturbation or plyometric training on core control and knee joint loading in women during lateral movements.

PubMed

Weltin, E; Gollhofer, A; Mornieux, G

2017-03-01

Deficits in trunk control are argued to increase the risk of knee injuries. However, no existing training program effectively addresses trunk control during lateral movements, such as cutting maneuvers. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether a combination of perturbation and plyometric training (PPT) would reduce trunk excursions against the new movement direction and reduce knee joint moments during lateral movements. Twenty-four active women participated in a RCT, where trunk and pelvis kinematics and knee joint moments were measured during lateral reactive jumps (LRJ) and unanticipated cutting maneuvers before and after a 4-week PPT program and compared to a control group. During LRJ, trunk rotation away from the new movement direction was reduced (P < 0.001), while pelvis rotation toward the new direction was increased (P = 0.006) after PPT. Moreover, decreased knee extension moments (P = 0.028) and knee internal rotation moments (P < 0.001) were reported after both trainings. Additionally, PPT reduced trunk rotation by 7.2° during unanticipated cuttings. A 4-week PPT improved core control by reducing trunk rotation and reduced knee joint moments during LRJ. During training, perturbations should be introduced to improve core control during dynamic athletic movements, possibly reducing the risk of ACL injuries. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

High Resolution Mineral Mapping of the Oman Drilling Project Cores with Imaging Spectroscopy: Preliminary Results

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Greenberger, R. N.; Ehlmann, B. L.; Kelemen, P. B.; Manning, C. E.; Teagle, D. A. H.; Harris, M.; Michibayashi, K.; Takazawa, E.

2017-12-01

The Oman Drilling Project provides an unprecedented opportunity to study the formation and alteration of oceanic crust and peridotite. Key to answering the main questions of the project are a characterization of the primary and secondary minerals present within the drill core and their spatial relationships. To that end, we used the Caltech imaging spectrometer system to scan the entire 1.5-km archive half of the core from all four gabbro and listvenite boreholes (GT1A, GT2A, GT3A, and BT1B) at 250 µm/pixel aboard the JAMSTEC Drilling Vessel Chikyu during the ChikyuOman core description campaign. The instrument measures the visible and shortwave infrared reflectance spectra of the rocks as a function of wavelength from 0.4 to 2.6 µm. This wavelength range is sensitive to many mineral groups, including hydrated minerals (phyllosilicates, zeolites, amorphous silica polytypes), carbonates, sulfates, and transition metals, most commonly iron-bearing mineralogies. To complete the measurements, the core was illuminated with a halogen light source and moved below the spectrometer at 1 cm/s by the Chikyu's Geotek track. Data are corrected and processed to reflectance using measurements of dark current and a spectralon calibration panel. The data provide a unique view of the mineralogy at high spatial resolution. Analysis of the images for complete downhole trends is ongoing. Thus far, a variety of minerals have been identified within their petrologic contexts, including but not limited to magnesite, dolomite, calcite, quartz (through an Si-OH absorption due to minor H2O), serpentine, chlorite, epidote, zeolites, mica (fuchsite), kaolinite, prehnite, gypsum, amphibole, and iron oxides. Further analysis will likely identify more minerals. Results include rapidly distinguishing the cations present within carbonate minerals and identifying minerals of volumetrically-low abundance within the matrix and veins of core samples. This technique, for example, accurately identifies mm-thick dolomite or calcite veins among dense sets of magnesite veins in the listvenite, indicating cross-cutting relationships that reflect changing alteration conditions with time. It also highlights key zones for sampling and additional analyses. Further data processing will provide mineralogical maps of the full 1.5 km of core.

Effectiveness of computer-aided diagnosis (CADx) of breast pathology using immunohistochemistry results of core needle biopsy samples for synaptophysin, oestrogen receptor and CK14/p63 for classification of epithelial proliferative lesions of the breast.

PubMed

Maeda, Ichiro; Kubota, Manabu; Ohta, Jiro; Shinno, Kimika; Tajima, Shinya; Ariizumi, Yasushi; Doi, Masatomo; Oana, Yoshiyasu; Kanemaki, Yoshihide; Tsugawa, Koichiro; Ueno, Takahiko; Takagi, Masayuki

2017-12-01

The aim of this study was to develop a computer-aided diagnosis (CADx) system for identifying breast pathology. Two sets of 100 consecutive core needle biopsy (CNB) specimens were collected for test and validation studies. All 200 CNB specimens were stained with antibodies targeting oestrogen receptor (ER), synaptophysin and CK14/p63. All stained slides were scanned in a whole-slide imaging system and photographed. The photographs were analysed using software to identify the proportions of tumour cells that were positive and negative for each marker. In the test study, the cut-off values for synaptophysin (negative and positive) and CK14/p63 (negative and positive) were decided using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. For ER analysis, samples were divided into groups with <10% positive or >10% positive cells and decided using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. Finally, these two groups categorised as ER-low, ER-intermediate (non-low and non-high) and ER-high groups. In the validation study, the second set of immunohistochemical slides were analysed using these cut-off values. The cut-off values for synaptophysin, <10% ER positive, >10% ER positive and CK14/p63 were 0.14%, 2.17%, 77.93% and 18.66%, respectively. The positive predictive value for malignancy (PPV) was 100% for synaptophysin-positive/ER-high/(CK14/p63)-any or synaptophysin-positive/ER-low/(CK14/p63)-any. The PPV was 25% for synaptophysin-positive/ER-intermediate/(CK14/p63)-positive. For synaptophysin-negative/(CK14/p63)-negative, the PPVs for ER-low, ER-intermediate and ER-high were 100%, 80.0% and 95.8%, respectively. The PPV was 4.5% for synaptophysin-negative/ER-intermediate/(CK14/p63)-positive. The CADx system was able to analyse sufficient data for all types of epithelial proliferative lesions of the breast including invasive breast cancer. This system may be useful for pathological diagnosis of breast CNB in routine investigations. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2017. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

Health Hazard Evaluation Report HETA 83-107-1574, Dana Corporation, Fort Wayne, Indiana

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

Parrish, R.G.; Wallingford, K.M.

1985-04-01

Environmental and breathing-zone samples of cutting fluids and oils were analyzed at Dana Corporation, Fort Wayne, Indiana in May, 1983. The survey was requested by a company representative to evaluate the cause of dermatitis among machine-tool operators. A cutting fluid used at the facility was thought to be the cause of the dermatitis. Medical questionnaires were administered to 95 workers. Company dispensary records were reviewed. N-nitrosodimethylamine and triethanolamine were detected in new and used cutting fluid samples. Nickel, chromium, and zinc were detected in a sample of used cutting oil residue. Chloromethyl-phenol was found in two cutting fluid mix samples.more » The authors conclude that a health hazard exists at the facility. The skin problems appear to be related to exposure to cutting fluids and solvents in general, rather than a specific agent. Recommendations include using protective clothing, using waterless hand cleaners instead of solvents, and avoiding contact with chlorothene.« less

High-Temperature Smart Structures for Engine Noise Reduction and Performance Enhancement

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Quackenbush, Todd R.; McKillip, Robert M., Jr.

2011-01-01

One of key NASA goals is to develop and integrate noise reduction technology to enable unrestricted air transportation service to all communities. One of the technical priorities of this activity has been to account for and reduce noise via propulsion/airframe interactions, identifying advanced concepts to be integrated with the airframe to mitigate these noise-producing mechanisms. An adaptive geometry chevron using embedded smart structures technology offers the possibility of maximizing engine performance while retaining and possibly enhancing the favorable noise characteristics of current designs. New high-temperature shape memory alloy (HTSMA) materials technology enables the devices to operate in both low-temperature (fan) and high-temperature (core) exhaust flows. Chevron-equipped engines have demonstrated reduced noise in testing and operational use. It is desirable to have the noise benefits of chevrons in takeoff/landing conditions, but have them deployed into a minimum drag position for cruise flight. The central feature of the innovation was building on rapidly maturing HTSMA technology to implement a next-generation aircraft noise mitigation system centered on adaptive chevron flow control surfaces. In general, SMA-actuated devices have the potential to enhance the demonstrated noise reduction effectiveness of chevron systems while eliminating the associated performance penalty. The use of structurally integrated smart devices will minimize the mechanical and subsystem complexity of this implementation. The central innovations of the effort entail the modification of prior chevron designs to include a small cut that relaxes structural stiffness without compromising the desired flow characteristics over the surface; the reorientation of SMA actuation devices to apply forces to deflect the chevron tip, exploiting this relaxed stiffness; and the use of high-temperature SMA (HTSMA) materials to enable operation in the demanding core chevron environment. The overall conclusion of these design studies was that the cut chevron concept is a critical enabling step in bringing the variable geometry core chevron within reach. The presence of the cut may be aerodynamically undesirable in some respects, but it is present only when the chevron is not immersed in the core jet exhaust. When deployed, the gap closes as the chevron tip enters the high-speed, high-temperature core stream. Aeroacoustic testing and flow visualization support the contention that this cut is inconsequential to chevron performance.

Evanescent field characteristics of eccentric core optical fiber for distributed sensing.

PubMed

Liu, Jianxia; Yuan, Libo

2014-03-01

Fundamental core-mode cutoff and evanescent field are considered for an eccentric core optical fiber (ECOF). A method has been proposed to calculate the core-mode cutoff by solving the eigenvalue equations of an ECOF. Using conformal mapping, the asymmetric geometrical structure can be transformed into a simple, easily solved axisymmetric optical fiber with three layers. The variation of the fundamental core-mode cut-off frequency (V(c)) is also calculated with different eccentric distances, wavelengths, core radii, and coating refractive indices. The fractional power of evanescent fields for ECOF is also calculated with the eccentric distances and coating refractive indices. These calculations are necessary to design the structural parameters of an ECOF for long-distance, single-mode distributed evanescent field absorption sensors.

Paraffin tissue microarrays constructed with a cutting board and cutting board arrayer.

PubMed

Vogel, Ulrich Felix

2010-05-01

Paraffin tissue microarrays (PTMAs) are blocks of paraffin containing up to 1300 paraffin tissue core biopsies (PTCBs). Normally, these PTCBs are punched from routine paraffin tissue blocks, which contain tissues of differing thicknesses. Therefore, the PTCBs are of different lengths. In consequence, the sections of the deeper portions of the PTMA do not contain all of the desired PTCBs. To overcome this drawback, cutting boards were constructed from panels of plastic with a thickness of 4 mm. Holes were drilled into the plastic and filled completely with at least one PTCB per hole. After being trimmed to a uniform length of 4 mm, these PTCBs were pushed from the cutting board into corresponding holes in a recipient block by means of a plate with steel pins. Up to 1000 sections per PTMA were cut without any significant loss of PTCBs, thereby increasing the efficacy of the PTMA technique.

Measurement of delta13C and delta18O Isotopic Ratios of CaCO3 by a Thermoquest Finnigan GasBench II Delta Plus XL Continous Flow Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometer with Application to Devils Hole Core DH-11 Calcite

USGS Publications Warehouse

Revesz, Kinga M.; Landwehr, Jurate Maciunas; Keybl, Jaroslav Edward

2001-01-01

A new method was developed to analyze the stable carbon and oxygen isotope ratios of small samples (400?20 ?g) of calcium carbonate. This new method streamlines the classical phosphoric acid - calcium carbonate (H3PO4 - CaCO3) reaction method by making use of a Thermoquest-Finnigan GasBench II preparation device and a Delta Plus XL continuous flow isotope ratio mass spectrometer. To obtain reproducible and accurate results, optimal conditions for the H3PO4 - CaCO3 reaction had to be determined. At the acid-carbonate reaction temperature suggested by the equipment manufacturer, the oxygen isotope ratio results were unsatisfactory (standard deviation () greater than 1.5 per mill), probably because of a secondary reaction. When the acid-carbonate reaction temperature was lowered to 26?C and the reaction time was increased to 24 hours, the precision of the carbon and oxygen isotope ratios for duplicate analyses improved to 0.1 and 0.2 per mill, respectively. The method was tested by analyzing calcite from Devils Hole, Nevada, which was formed by precipitation from ground water onto the walls of a sub-aqueous cavern during the last 500,000 years. Isotope-ratio values previously had been obtained by the classical method for Devils Hole core DH-11. The DH-11 core had been recently re-sampled, and isotope-ratio values were obtained using this new method. The results were comparable to those obtained by the classical method. The consistency of the isotopic results is such that an alignment offset could be identified in the re-sampled core material, a cutting error that was then independently confirmed. The reproducibility of the isotopic values is demonstrated by a correlation of approximately 0.96 for both isotopes, after correcting for an alignment offset. This result indicates that the new method is a viable alternative to the classical method. In particular, the new method requires less sample material permitting finer resolution and allows automation of some processes resulting in considerable timesavings.

Current Progress in Fabrication of a 14 Tesla Nb3Sn Dipole

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Holik, Eddie, III; Benson, Christopher; Damborsky, Kyle; Diaczenko, Nick; Elliott, Tim; Garrison, Ray; Jaisle, Andrew; McInturff, Alfred; McIntyre, Peter; Sattarov, Dior

2012-03-01

The Accelerator Technology Laboratory at Texas A&M is fabricating a model dipole magnet, TAMU3, designed to operate at a 14 Tesla bore field. The dipole employs an advanced internal-tin Nb3Sn/Cu composite strand with enhanced current density. The coils must be processed through a heat treatment after winding, during which the Sn within the heterogeneous strands diffuse into the Cu/Nb matrix to form high-performance superconducting layers. Heat treatment of the first coil assembly revealed tin leakage from the Sn cores that was caused by omission of a pre-anneal step in the heat treatment. We are evaluating the electrical properties of the coil, the microstructure and short-sample superconducting performance of cut-off samples of current leads to determine the extent of damage to the performance of the windings. Results of those tests and plans for construction of TAMU3 will be presented.

Strain localization and fabric development in polycrystalline anorthite + melt by water diffusion in an axial deformation experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fukuda, Jun-ichi; Muto, Jun; Nagahama, Hiroyuki

2018-01-01

We performed two axial deformation experiments on synthetic polycrystalline anorthite samples with a grain size of 3 μm and 5 vol% Si-Al-rich glass at 900 °C, a confining pressure of 1.0 GPa, and a strain rate of 10-4.8 s-1. One sample was deformed as-is (dry); in the other sample, two half-cut samples (two cores) with 0.15 wt% water at the boundary were put together in the apparatus. The mechanical data for both samples were essentially identical with a yield strength of 700 MPa and strain weakening of 500 MPa by 20% strain. The dry sample appears to have been deformed by distributed fracturing. Meanwhile, the water-added sample shows plastic strain localization in addition to fracturing and reaction products composed of zoisite grains and SiO2 materials along the boundary between the two sample cores. Infrared spectra of the water-added sample showed dominant water bands of zoisite. The maximum water content was 1500 wt ppm H2O at the two-core boundary, which is the same as the added amount. The water contents gradually decreased from the boundaries to the sample interior, and the gradient fitted well with the solution of the one-dimensional diffusion equation. The determined diffusion coefficient was 7.4 × 10-13 m2/s, which agrees with previous data for the grain boundary diffusion of water. The anorthite grains in the water-added sample showed no crystallographic preferred orientation. Textural observations and water diffusion indicate that water promotes the plastic deformation of polycrystalline anorthite by grain-size-sensitive creep as well as simultaneous reactions. We calculated the strain rate evolution controlled by water diffusion in feldspar aggregates surrounded by a water source. We assumed water diffusion in a dry rock mass with variable sizes. Diffused water weakens a rock mass with time under compressive stress. The calculated strain rate decreased from 10-10 to 10-15 s-1 with an increase in the rock mass size to which water is supplied from < 1 m to 1 km and an increase in the time of water diffusion from < 1 to 10,000 years. This indicates a decrease in the strain rate in a rock mass with increasing deformation via water diffusion.

Petrography and geochemistry of precambrian rocks from GT-2 and EE-1

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

Laughlin, A.W.; Eddy, A.

1977-08-01

During the drilling of GT-2 and EE-1, 27 cores totaling about 35 m were collected from the Precambrian section. Samples of each different lithology in each core were taken for petrographic and whole-rock major- and trace-element analyses. Whole-rock analyses are now completed on 37 samples. From these data four major Precambrian units were identified at the Fenton Hill site. Geophysical logs and cuttings were used to extrapolate between cores. The most abundant rock type is an extremely variable gneissic unit comprising about 75% of the rock penetrated. This rock is strongly foliated and may range compositionally from syenogranitic to tonaliticmore » over a few centimeters. The bulk of the unit falls within the monzogranite field. Interlayered with the gneiss is a ferrohastingsite-biotite schist which compositionally resembles a basaltic andesite. A fault contact between the schist and gneiss was observed in one core. Intrusive into this metamorphic complex are two igneous rocks. A leucocratic monzogranite occurs as at least two 15-m-thick dikes, and a biotite-granodiorite body was intercepted by 338 m of drill hole. Both rocks are unfoliated and equigranular. The biotite granodiorite is very homogeneous and is characterized by high modal contents of biotite and sphene and by high K/sub 2/O, TiO/sub 2/, and P/sub 2/O/sub 5/ contents. Although all of the cores examined show fractures, most of these are tightly sealed or healed. Calcite is the most abundant fracture filling mineral, but epidote, quartz, chlorite, clays or sulfides have also been observed. The degree of alteration of the essential minerals normally increases as these fractures are approached. The homogeneity of the biotite granodiorite at the bottom of GT-2 and the high degree of fracture filling ensure an ideal setting for the Hot Dry Rock Experiment.« less

Ultrasonically Assisted Cutting of Bio-tissues in Microtomy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Dong; Roy, Anish; Silberschmidt, Vadim V.

Modern-day histology of bio-tissues for supporting stratified medicine diagnoses requires high-precision cutting to ensure high quality extremely thin specimens used in analysis. Additionally, the cutting quality is significantly affected by a wide variety of soft and hard tissues in the samples. This paper deals with development of a next generation of microtome employing introduction of controlled ultrasonic vibration to realise a hybrid cutting process of bio-tissues. The study is based on a combination of advanced experimental and numerical (finite-element) studies of multi-body dynamics of a cutting system. The quality of cut samples produced with the prototype is compared with the state-of-the-art.

Site Report for USGS Test Holes Drilled at Cape Charles, Northampton County, Virginia, in 2004

USGS Publications Warehouse

Gohn, Gregory S.; Sanford, Ward E.; Powars, David S.; Horton, J. Wright; Edwards, Lucy E.; Morin, Roger H.; Self-Trail, Jean M.

2007-01-01

The U.S. Geological Survey drilled two test holes near Cape Charles, Virginia, during May and June 2004, as part of an investigation of the buried, late Eocene Chesapeake Bay impact structure. The first hole is designated as the USGS-Sustainable Technology Park test hole #1 (USGS-STP1). This test hole was abandoned at a depth of 300 ft; cuttings samples were collected, but no cores or geophysical logs were acquired. The second hole is designated as the USGS-Sustainable Technology Park test hole #2 (USGS-STP2). This test hole was drilled to a depth of 2,699 ft. Cores were collected between depths of 1,401.7 ft and 1,420.7 ft and between 2,440.0 ft and 2,699.0 ft. Cuttings samples were collected from the uncored intervals below 280-ft depth. Interim sets of geophysical logs were acquired during the drilling operation, and one final set was acquired at the end of drilling. Two wells were installed in the USGS-STP2 test hole. The deep well (designated 62G-24) was screened between 2,260 ft and 2,280 ft, and the shallow well (designated 62G-25) was screened between 1,360 ft and 1,380 ft. Ground-water salinities stabilized at 40 parts per thousand for the deep well and 20 parts per thousand for the shallow well. The geologic section encountered in the test holes consists of three main units: (1) Eocene, Oligocene, Miocene, Pliocene, and Pleistocene sands and clays are present between land surface and a depth of 1,163 ft; (2) sediment-clast breccias of the impact structure are present between depths of 1,163 ft and 2,150 ft; and (3) crystalline-clast breccias and cataclastic gneiss of the impact structure are present between depths of 2,150 ft and 2,699 ft.

30 CFR 70.207 - Bimonthly sampling; mechanized mining units.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... sampling device as follows: (1) Conventional section using cutting machine. On the cutting machine operator or on the cutting machine within 36 inches inby the normal working position; (2) Conventional section shooting off the solid. On the loading machine operator or on the loading machine within 36 inches inby the...

30 CFR 70.207 - Bimonthly sampling; mechanized mining units.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... sampling device as follows: (1) Conventional section using cutting machine. On the cutting machine operator or on the cutting machine within 36 inches inby the normal working position; (2) Conventional section shooting off the solid. On the loading machine operator or on the loading machine within 36 inches inby the...

30 CFR 70.207 - Bimonthly sampling; mechanized mining units.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... sampling device as follows: (1) Conventional section using cutting machine. On the cutting machine operator or on the cutting machine within 36 inches inby the normal working position; (2) Conventional section shooting off the solid. On the loading machine operator or on the loading machine within 36 inches inby the...

30 CFR 70.207 - Bimonthly sampling; mechanized mining units.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... air will be used to determine the average concentration for that mechanized mining unit. (e) Unless... sampling device as follows: (1) Conventional section using cutting machine. On the cutting machine operator or on the cutting machine within 36 inches inby the normal working position; (2) Conventional section...

Characterization of the Fault Core and Damage Zone of the Borrego Fault, 2010 M7.2 Rupture

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dorsey, M. T.; Rockwell, T. K.; Girty, G.; Ostermeijer, G.; Mitchell, T. M.; Fletcher, J. M.

2017-12-01

We collected a continuous sample of the fault core and 23 samples of the damage zone out to 52 m across the rupture trace of the 2010 M7.2 El Mayor-Cucapa earthquake to characterize the physical damage and chemical transformations associated with this active seismic source. In addition to quantifying fracture intensity from macroscopic analysis, we cut a continuous thin section through the fault core and from various samples in the damage zone, and ran each sample for XRD analyses for clay mineralogy, XRF for bulk geochemical analyses, and bulk and grain density from which porosity and volumetric strain were derived. The parent rock is a hydrothermally-altered biotite tonalite, with biotite partially altered to chlorite. The presence of epidote with chlorite suggests that these rocks were subjected to relatively high temperatures of 300-400° C. Adjacent to the outermost damage zone is a chaotic breccia zone with distinct chemical and physical characteristics, indicating possible connection to an ancestral fault to the southwest. The damage zone consists of an outer zone of protocataclasite, which grades inward towards mesocataclasite with seams of ultracataclasite. The fault core is anomalous in that it is largely composed of a sliver of marble that has been translated along the fault, so direct comparison with the damage zone is impaired. From collected data, we observe that chloritization increases into the breccia and damage zones, as does the presence of illite. Porosity reaches maximum values in the damage zone adjacent to the core, and closely follows trends in fracture intensity. Statistically significant gains in Mg, Na, K, Mn, and total bulk mass occurred within the inner damage zone, with losses of Ca and P mass, which led to the formation of chlorite and albite. The outer damage zone displays gains in Mg and Na mass with losses in Ca and P mass. The breccia zone shows gains in mass of Mg and Mn and loss in total bulk mass. A gain in LOI in both the breccia and damage zones is attributed to formation of clay. Volumetric strain tracks porosity, as expected, and increases towards the core. Notably, damage appears to be superposed on chemical alterations, which supports the idea that much of the hydrothermal alteration occurred at depth followed by brecciation and cataclasis once the fault zone rocks were exhumed closer to the surface.

Investigation into the Effects of Textural Properties on Cuttability Performance of a Chisel Tool

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tumac, Deniz; Copur, Hanifi; Balci, Cemal; Er, Selman; Avunduk, Emre

2018-04-01

The main objective of this study is to investigate the effect of textural properties of stones on cutting performance of a standard chisel tool. Therewithal, the relationships between textural properties and cutting performance parameters and physical and mechanical properties were statistically analyzed. For this purpose, physical and mechanical property tests and mineralogical and petrographic analyses were carried out on eighteen natural stone samples, which can be grouped into three fundamentally different geological origins, i.e., metamorphic, igneous, and sedimentary. Then, texture coefficient analyses were performed on the samples. To determine the cuttability of the stones; the samples were cut with a portable linear cutting machine using a standard chisel tool at different depths of cut in unrelieved (non-interactive) cutting mode. The average and maximum forces (normal and cutting) and specific energy were measured, and the obtained values were correlated with texture coefficient, packing weighting, and grain size. With reference to the relation between depth of cut and cutting performance of the chisel tool for three types of natural stone groups, specific energy decreases with increasing depth of cut, and cutting forces increase in proportion to the depth of cut. The same is observed for the relationship between packing weighting and both of specific energy and cutter forces. On the other hand, specific energy and the forces decrease while grain size increases. Based on the findings of the present study, texture coefficient has strong correlation with specific energy. Generally, the lower depth of cut values in cutting tests shows higher and more reliable correlations with texture coefficient than the increased depth of cut. The results of cutting tests show also that, at a lower depth of cut (less than 1.5 mm), even stronger correlations can be observed between texture coefficient and cutting performance. Experimental studies indicate that cutting performance of chisel tools can be predicted based on texture coefficients of the natural stones.

Comparative facies formation in selected coal beds of the Powder River Basin

USGS Publications Warehouse

Stanton, R.W.; Moore, Timothy A.; Warwick, Peter D.; Crowley, S.S.; Flores, Romeo M.; Flores, Romeo M.; Warwick, Peter D.; Moore, Timothy A.; Glass, Gary; Smith, Archie; Nichols, Douglas J.; Wolfe, Jack A.; Stanton, Ronald W.; Weaver, Jean

1989-01-01

Petrologic studies of thick coal beds [Warwick, 1985; Moore, 1986; Moore and others, 1986; Moore and others, 1987; Warwick and Stanton, in press], which build on sedimentological interpretations [Flores, this volume] of associated units, provide data to interpret and contrast the varieties of peat formation in the Powder River Basin. Detailed analyses of the composition of coal beds lead to more complete interpretations regarding the depositional environment on a regional and local scale. Our efforts in the Powder River Basin [areas A-D in fig. 1 of Flores, this volume] have resulted in a series of site-specific studies that interpret the types of peat formation from the arrangement of different facies which comprise the coal beds and from the spatial form of the coal beds.Our approach was to use a combination of megascopic criteria for facies sampling, and where only core was available, to analyze many interval samples to discriminate facies by their maceral composition. Coal beds in the Powder River Basin are composed of laterally continuous, compositional subunits of the bed (facies) that can be discerned most easily in weathered highwall exposures, less readily in fresh highwalls, and very poorly in fresh-cut core surfaces. In general, very low ash ( 

Assessment of subsurface chlorinated solvent contamination using tree cores at the front street site and a former dry cleaning facility at the Riverfront Superfund site, New Haven, Missouri, 1999-2003

USGS Publications Warehouse

Schumacher, John G.; Struckhoff, Garrett C.; Burken, Joel G.

2004-01-01

Tree-core sampling has been a reliable and inexpensive tool to quickly assess the presence of shallow (less than about 30 feet deep) tetrachloroethene (PCE) and trichloroethene (TCE) contamination in soils and ground water at the Riverfront Superfund Site. This report presents the results of tree-core sampling that was successfully used to determine the presence and extent of chlorinated solvent contamination at two sites, the Front Street site (operable unit OU1) and the former dry cleaning facility, that are part of the overall Riverfront Superfund Site. Traditional soil and ground-water sampling at these two sites later confirmed the results from the tree-core sampling. Results obtained from the tree-core sampling were used to design and focus subsequent soil and ground-water investigations, resulting in substantial savings in time and site assessment costs. The Front Street site is a small (less than 1-acre) site located on the Missouri River alluvium in downtown New Haven, Missouri, about 500 feet from the south bank of the Missouri River. Tree-core sampling detected the presence of subsurface PCE contamination at the Front Street site and beneath residential property downgradient from the site. Core samples from trees at the site contained PCE concentrations as large as 3,850 mg-h/kg (micrograms in headspace per kilogram of wet core) and TCE concentrations as large as 249 mg-h/kg. Soils at the Front Street site contained PCE concentrations as large as 6,200,000 mg/kg (micrograms per kilogram) and ground-water samples contained PCE concentrations as large as 11,000 mg/L (micrograms per liter). The former dry cleaning facility is located at the base of the upland that forms the south bank of the Missouri River alluvial valley. Tree-core sampling did not indicate the presence of PCE or TCE contamination at the former dry cleaning facility, a finding that was later confirmed by the analyses of soil samples collected from the site. The lateral extent of PCE contamination in trees was in close agreement with the extent of subsurface PCE contamination determined using traditional soil and ground-water sampling methods. Trees growing in soils containing PCE concentrations of 60 to 5,700 mg/kg or larger or overlying ground water containing PCE concentrations from 5 to 11,000 mg/L generally contained detectable concentrations of PCE. The depth to contaminated ground water was about 20 to 25 feet below the land surface. Significant quantitative relations [probability (p) values of less than 0.05 and correlation coefficient (r2) values of 0.88 to 0.90] were found between PCE concentrations in trees and subsurface soils between 4 and 16 feet deep. The relation between PCE concentrations in trees and underlying ground water was less apparent (r2 value of 0.17) and the poor relation is thought to be the result of equilibrium with PCE concentrations in soil and vapor in the unsaturated zone. Based on PCE concentrations detected in trees at the Front Street site and trees growing along contaminated tributaries in other operable units, and from field hydroponic experiments using hybrid poplar cuttings, analysis of tree-core samples appears to be able to detect subsurface PCE contamination in soils at levels of several hundred micrograms per liter or less and PCE concentrations in the range of 8 to 30 mg/L in ground water in direct contact with the roots. Loss of PCE from tree trunks by diffusion resulted in an exponential decrease in PCE concentrations with increasing height above the land surface in most trees. The rate of loss also appeared to be a function of the size and growth characteristics of the tree as some trees exhibited a linear loss with increasing height. Diffusional loss of PCE in small (0.5-inch diameter) trees was observed to occur at a rate more than 10 times larger than in trees 6.5 inches in diameter. Concentrations of PCE also exhibited directional variability around the tree trunks and concentration differe

Coring device with a improved core sleeve and anti-gripping collar with a collective core catcher

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

Story, A.L.; Filshtinsky, M.

1986-01-28

This patent describes an improved coring apparatus used in combination with a coring bit and drill string. This device consists of: an outer driving structure adapted to be connected at one end to the coring bit for cutting a core in a borehole, and at the other end to the lower end of the drill string in telescoping and co-rotatable manner therewith; an inner barrel disposed within the outer driving structure and including a lower end portion adjacent to the bit; first means supporting the inner barrel in spaced relationship to the outer driving structure while permitting rotation of themore » driving structure with respect to the inner barrel; a woven metal mesh sleeve mounted in surrounding relation on at least a portion of the exterior surface of the inner barrel; second means, connected to a free end of the sleeve opposite the leading portion of the sleeve, for maintaining the portion of the sleeve which surrounds the inner barrel in compression and to maintain an inside diameter greater than the outside diameter of the inner barrel of the portion of the sleeve surrounding the inner barrel while the portion of the sleeve positioned inside the inner barrel being in tension to grip and compress a core received within the sleeve and having an outside diameter less than the inside diameter of the inner barrel when in tension, wherein the second means is also for engaging the core when the means is drawn into the inner barrel, and third means positioned within the inner barrel and connected to the leading portion of the sleeve to draw the sleeve within the inner barrel and to apply tension to the portion of the sleeve within the barrel to encase and grip the core as it is cut.« less

Publications - GMC 166 | Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical

Science.gov Websites

: Unknown Publication Date: 1990 Publisher: Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys Total . Bibliographic Reference Unknown, 1990, Vitrinite reflectance data of cuttings (2400'-8680') and of core (7895

Number of Biopsies in Diagnosing Pulmonary Nodules

PubMed Central

Wehrschuetz, M.; Wehrschuetz, E.; Portugaller, H. R.

2010-01-01

Purpose: To determine the number of specimens to be obtained from pulmonary lesions to get the highest possible accuracy in histological work-up. Materials and methods: A retrospective evaluation (January 1999 to April 2004) covered 260 patients with thoracic lesions who underwent computer tomography (CT)-guided core-cut biopsy in coaxial technique. All biopsies were performed utilizing a 19 gauge introducer needle and a 20 gauge core-cut biopsy needle. In all, 669 usable biopsies were taken (from 1–5 biopsies in each setting). The specimens were marked sequentially and each biopsy was worked up histologicaly. The biopsy results were correlated to histology after surgery, clinical follow-up or autopsy. The number of biopsies was determined that is necessary to achieve the highest possible accuracy in diagnosing pulmonary lesions. Results: In 591 of 669 biopsies (88.3%), there were correct positive results. The overall accuracy was 87.4%. In 193 of 260 (74.2%) patients, a suspected malignancy was confirmed. In 50 of 260 (19.2%) patients, a benign lesion was correctly diagnosed. Seventeen (6.5%) patients were lost to follow-up. The first, second and third biopsies had cumulative accuracies of 63.6%, 89.2% and 91.5%, respectively (P < 0.02). More biopsies did not show any higher impact on accuracy. Conclusion: For the highest possible accuracy in diagnosing pulmonary lesions by CT-guided core-cut biopsy, at least three usable specimens are recommended to be taken. PMID:21157523

Little bits of diamond: Optically detected magnetic resonance of nitrogen-vacancy centers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Haimei; Belvin, Carina; Li, Wanyi; Wang, Jennifer; Wainwright, Julia; Berg, Robbie; Bridger, Joshua

2018-03-01

We give instructions for the construction and operation of a simple apparatus for performing optically detected magnetic resonance measurements on diamond samples containing high concentrations of nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers. Each NV center has a spin degree of freedom that can be manipulated and monitored by a combination of visible and microwave radiation. We observe Zeeman shifts in the presence of small external magnetic fields and describe a simple method to optically measure magnetic field strengths with a spatial resolution of several microns. The activities described are suitable for use in an advanced undergraduate lab course, powerfully connecting core quantum concepts to cutting edge applications. An even simpler setup, appropriate for use in more introductory settings, is also presented.

Ultrasonic rotary-hammer drill

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bar-Cohen, Yoseph (Inventor); Badescu, Mircea (Inventor); Sherrit, Stewart (Inventor); Kassab, Steve (Inventor); Bao, Xiaoqi (Inventor)

2010-01-01

A mechanism for drilling or coring by a combination of sonic hammering and rotation. The drill includes a hammering section with a set of preload weights mounted atop a hammering actuator and an axial passage through the hammering section. In addition, a rotary section includes a motor coupled to a drive shaft that traverses the axial passage through the hammering section. A drill bit is coupled to the drive shaft for drilling by a combination of sonic hammering and rotation. The drill bit includes a fluted shaft leading to a distal crown cutter with teeth. The bit penetrates sampled media by repeated hammering action. In addition, the bit is rotated. As it rotates the fluted bit carries powdered cuttings helically upward along the side of the bit to the surface.

Effect of Fiber Orientation on Dynamic Compressive Properties of an Ultra-High Performance Concrete

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-08-01

measurements for LSFfiberOrient function for multiple cores. Elapsed time is the total time taken to run ; CPU time is the number of cores times the...Superscripts Maximum value during a test Measured value from a calibration run ...movement left or right. Before cutting, the Cor-Tuf Baseline beam was placed on the table and squared with the blade . The blade was then moved into

HPV self-sampling in CIN2+ detection: sensitivity and specificity of different RLU cut-off of HC2 in specimens from 786 women.

PubMed

Bottari, F; Igidbashian, S; Boveri, S; Tricca, A; Gulmini, C; Sesia, M; Spolti, N; Sideri, M; Landoni, F; Sandri, M T

2017-04-01

Mortality for cervical cancer varies between the different regions of the world, with high rates in low-income countries where screening programmes are not present and organised. However, increasing screening coverage is still a priority in all countries: one way to do that is to base screening on self-sampled screening. The success of a self-sampling screening strategy depends on capacity to recruit unscreened women, on the performance and acceptability of the device and on the clinical performance of the high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) test. This study based on 786 enrolled women investigates the best cut-off value of Hybrid Capture 2 HPV test (HC2) for self-sampled specimens in terms of sensitivity and specificity. In this population, we found that the sensitivity and the specificity for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 or more detection of HC2 performed on self-sampled specimens were 82.5% and 82.8%, respectively considering the relative light units (RLU) cut-off value of 1. Increasing the cut-off value the sensitivity decreases and the specificity raises and the best area under the curve for the RLU cut-off value is 1. Our results confirm that the cut-off value of 1 suggested by Qiagen for PreservCyt specimen is the best cut-off value also for self-sampled specimens. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.

Ratio of Cut Surface Area to Leaf Sample Volume for Water Potential Measurements by Thermocouple Psychrometers

PubMed Central

Walker, Sue; Oosterhuis, Derrick M.; Wiebe, Herman H.

1984-01-01

Evaporative losses from the cut edge of leaf samples are of considerable importance in measurements of leaf water potential using thermocouple psychrometers. The ratio of cut surface area to leaf sample volume (area to volume ratio) has been used to give an estimate of possible effects of evaporative loss in relation to sample size. A wide range of sample sizes with different area to volume ratios has been used. Our results using Glycine max L. Merr. cv Bragg indicate that leaf samples with area to volume values less than 0.2 square millimeter per cubic millimeter give psychrometric leaf water potential measurements that compare favorably with pressure chamber measurements. PMID:16663578

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

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

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

2018-05-01

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

A field test of cut-off importance sampling for bole volume

Treesearch

Jeffrey H. Gove; Harry T. Valentine; Michael J. Holmes

2000-01-01

Cut-off importance sampling has recently been introduced as a technique for estimating bole volume to some point below the tree tip, termed the cut-off point. A field test of this technique was conducted on a small population of eastern white pine trees using dendrometry as the standard for volume estimation. Results showed that the differences in volume estimates...

163 years of refinement: the British Geological Survey sample registration scheme

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Howe, M. P.

2011-12-01

The British Geological Survey manages the largest UK geoscience samples collection, including: - 15,000 onshore boreholes, including over 250 km of drillcore - Vibrocores, gravity cores and grab samples from over 32,000 UK marine sample stations. 640 boreholes - Over 3 million UK fossils, including a "type and stratigraphic" reference collection of 250,000 fossils, 30,000 of which are "type, figured or cited" - Comprehensive microfossil collection, including many borehole samples - 290km of drillcore and 4.5 million cuttings samples from over 8000 UK continental shelf hydrocarbon wells - Over one million mineralogical and petrological samples, including 200,00 thin sections The current registration scheme was introduced in 1848 and is similar to that used by Charles Darwin on the Beagle. Every Survey collector or geologist has been issue with a unique prefix code of one or more letters and these were handwritten on preprinted numbers, arranged in books of 1 - 5,000 and 5,001 to 10,000. Similar labels are now computer printed. Other prefix codes are used for corporate collections, such as borehole samples, thin sections, microfossils, macrofossil sections, museum reference fossils, display quality rock samples and fossil casts. Such numbers infer significant immediate information to the curator, without the need to consult detailed registers. The registration numbers have been recorded in a series of over 1,000 registers, complete with metadata including sample ID, locality, horizon, collector and date. Citations are added as appropriate. Parent-child relationships are noted when re-registering subsubsamples. For example, a borehole sample BDA1001 could have been subsampled for a petrological thin section and off-cut (E14159), a fossil thin section (PF365), micropalynological slides (MPA273), one of which included a new holotype (MPK111), and a figured macrofossil (GSE1314). All main corporate collection now have publically-available online databases, such as PalaeoSaurus (fossils), Britrocks (mineralogy and petrology) and ComBo (combined onshore and offshore boreholes). ComBo links to core images, when available. Similar links are under development for Britrocks and PalaeoSaurus, with the latter also to include HR laser scanned digital models. These databases also link to internal and public GIS systems and to the BGS digital field data capture system. PalaeoSaurus holds an identification/authority/date history for each specimen, as well as recording type status, and figure and citation details. Similar comments can be added to Britrocks and ComBo. For several years, the BGS has provided online web access to the databases, for the discovery of physical samples , including parent-child links and citation information. Regretfully, authors frequently fail to cite sample registration numbers (nineteenth century geologists were sometimes better than their twenty-first century counterparts), or to supply copies of, or links to, the data generated, despite it being a condition of sample access. The need for editors and referees to enforce the inclusion of sample registration numbers, and for authors to lodge copies of papers, reports and data with the sample providers, is more important than yet another new database.

Studying the Variation in Gas Permeability of Porous Building Substrates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Townsend, L.; Savidge, C. R.; Hu, L.; Rizzo, D. M.; Hayden, N. J.; Dewoolkar, M.

2009-12-01

Understanding permeability of building materials is important for problems involving studies of contaminant transport. Examples include contamination from fire, acid rain, and chemical and biological weapons. Our research investigates the gas permeability of porous building substrates such as concretes, limestones, sandstones, and bricks. Each sample was cored to produce 70 mm (2.75”) diameter cores approximately 75-130 mm (3-5”) tall. The surface gas permeability was measured on the top surface of these specimens using the AutoScan II device manufactured by New England Research, Inc. The measurements were taken along a 3 mm grid producing a map of surface gas permeability. An example map is shown in Figure 1. The macroscopic measurements were performed along the entire cored specimen. A second set of measurements were made on a 5 mm thick slice cut from the top of each specimen to examine whether these measurements compare better with the surface measurements. The macroscopic gas permeability was measured for all specimens using ASTM D 4525. The results are summarized in Table 1. In general, the surface and macroscopic gas permeability measurements (Table 1) compare reasonably well (within one order of magnitude). The permeability of the 5 mm slices is not significantly different from the entire core for the specimens tested. Figure 1. Results of surface permeability mappingof Ohio Sandstone using the AutoScan II device. a) Map of gas permeability b) Range of gas permeability c) Density function of permeability. Table 1. Gas permeability values (mD)

A composite lithology log while drilling

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

Tannenbaum, E.; Sutcliffe, B.; Franks, A.

A new method for producing a computerized composite lithology log (CLL) while drilling by integrating MWD (measurement while drilling) and surface data is described. At present, lithology logs are produced at the well site by mud loggers. They provide basic description and relative amounts of lithologies. Major difficulties are encountered in relating the cuttings to their original formations due to mixing in the drilling mud while transporting to the surface, sloughing shales, flawed sampling, etc. This results in a poor control on the stratigraphic sequence and on the depth of formation boundaries. A composite log can be produced after drillingmore » this additional inputs such as wireline, petrography, and paleontology. This process is labor intensive and expensive. The CLL integrates three types of data (MWD mechanical, MWD geophysical, and surface cuttings) acquired during drilling, in three time stages: (1) Real Time. MWD drilling mechanical data including the rate of penetration and the downhole torque. This stage would provide bed boundaries and some inferred lithology. This would assist the driller with immediate drilling decisions and determine formation tops for coring, casing point, and correlation. (2) MWD Time. Recomputation of the above by adding MWD geophysical data (gamma-ray, resistivity, neutron-density). This stage would upgrade the lithology inference, and give higher resolution to bed boundaries, (3) Lag Time. Detailed analysis of surface cuttings to confirm the inferred lithologies. This last input results in a high-quality CLL with accurate lithologies and bed boundaries.« less

29 CFR 1926.104 - Safety belts, lifelines, and lanyards.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... be subjected to cutting or abrasion, shall be a minimum of 7/8-inch wire core manila rope. For all... or pressed steel, cadmium plated in accordance with type 1, Class B plating specified in Federal...

29 CFR 1926.104 - Safety belts, lifelines, and lanyards.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... be subjected to cutting or abrasion, shall be a minimum of 7/8-inch wire core manila rope. For all... or pressed steel, cadmium plated in accordance with type 1, Class B plating specified in Federal...

Determination of fungal diseases, site and stand characteristics in mixed stands in Ilgaz-Yenice forest district, Cankiri, Turkey.

PubMed

Oner, Nuri; Dogan, Hasan Huseyin; Ozturk, Celaleddin; Gurer, Meral

2009-07-01

Fungal diseases, site and stand characteristics were investigated in Yenice forest sub-district headquarters belonging to Ilgaz forest enterprise. Diseases and wood decaying fungi on fallen and cut tree stumps were determined on scots pine (Pinus sylvestris), crimean pine (P. nigra subsp. nigra varcaramanica), and uludag fir (Abies nordmanniana subsp. bommulleriana). Altitude (m), exposure, slope (%), relief, rate of mixture (%) and anthropogenic effects were noted for 56 sample plots which have various stand compositions. Age, breast height diameter (cm), top height (m), crown and bole quality regeneration quality and development of representative tree species were also recorded into vegetation forms. Yellow witches' broom (Melampsorella caryophyllacearum), which caused drying of uludag fir trees, was determined. Besides, 53 macrofungi species belonging to 3 divisions, 10 orders, 25 families and 36 genera were determined. Some of them cause white and brown decay on living and core wood. The most common parasitic and saprobe fungi are Galerina Ganoderma, Gloeophyllum, Gymnopilus, Hypholoma, Lentinus, Phellinus, Pleurotus, Polyporus and Stereum species in the research area. Trichaptum abietinum is also typical wood decay fungi for living or cut fir trees and it is very common in the research area.

Investigation of wear land and rate of locally made HSS cutting tool

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Afolalu, S. A.; Abioye, A. A.; Dirisu, J. O.; Okokpujie, I. P.; Ajayi, O. O.; Adetunji, O. R.

2018-04-01

Production technology and machining are inseparable with cutting operation playing important roles. Investigation of wear land and rate of cutting tool developed locally (C=0.56%) with an HSS cutting tool (C=0.65%) as a control was carried out. Wear rate test was carried out using Rotopol -V and Impact tester. The samples (12) of locally made cutting tools and one (1) sample of a control HSS cutting tool were weighed to get the initial weight and grit was fixed at a point for the sample to revolve at a specific time of 10 mins interval. Approach of macro transfer particles that involved mechanism of abrasion and adhesion which was termed as mechanical wear to handle abrasion adhesion processes was used in developing equation for growth wear at flank. It was observed from the wear test that best minimum wear rate of 1.09 × 10-8 and 2.053 × 10-8 for the tools developed and control were measured. MATLAB was used to simulate the wear land and rate under different conditions. Validated results of both the experimental and modeling showed that cutting speed has effect on wear rate while cutting time has predicted measure on wear land. Both experimental and modeling result showed best performances of tools developed over the control.

Variations in soil detachment rates after wildfire as a function of soil depth, flow properties, and root properties

USGS Publications Warehouse

Moody, John A.; Nyman, Peter

2013-01-01

Wildfire affects hillslope erosion through increased surface runoff and increased sediment availability, both of which contribute to large post-fire erosion events. Relations between soil detachment rate, soil depth, flow and root properties, and fire impacts are poorly understood and not represented explicitly in commonly used post-fire erosion models. Detachment rates were measured on intact soil cores using a modified tilting flume. The cores were mounted flush with the flume-bed and a measurement was made on the surface of the core. The core was extruded upward, cut off, and another measurement was repeated at a different depth below the original surface of the core. Intact cores were collected from one site burned by the 2010 Fourmile Canyon (FMC) fire in Colorado and from one site burned by the 2010 Pozo fire in California. Each site contained contrasting vegetation and soil types. Additional soil samples were collected alongside the intact cores and were analyzed in the laboratory for soil properties (organic matter, bulk density, particle-size distribution) and for root properties (root density and root-length density). Particle-size distribution and root properties were different between sites, but sites were similar in terms of bulk density and organic matter. Soil detachment rates had similar relations with non-uniform shear stress and non-uniform unit stream power. Detachment rates within single sampling units displayed a relatively weak and inconsistent relation to flow variables. When averaged across all clusters, the detachment rate displayed a linear relation to shear stress, but variability in soil properties meant that the shear stress accounted for only a small proportion of the overall variability in detachment rates (R2 = 0.23; R2 is the coefficient of determination). Detachment rate was related to root-length density in some clusters (R2 values up to 0.91) and unrelated in others (R2 values 2 value improved and the range of exponents became narrower by applying a multivariate regression model where boundary shear stress and root-length density were included as explanatory variables. This suggests that an erodibility parameter which incorporates the effects of both flow and root properties on detachment could improve the representation of sediment availability after wildfire.

Waterjet cutting of periprosthetic interface tissue in loosened hip prostheses: an in vitro feasibility study.

PubMed

Kraaij, Gert; Tuijthof, Gabrielle J M; Dankelman, Jenny; Nelissen, Rob G H H; Valstar, Edward R

2015-02-01

Waterjet cutting technology is considered a promising technology to be used for minimally invasive removal of interface tissue surrounding aseptically loose hip prostheses. The goal of this study was to investigate the feasibility of waterjet cutting of interface tissue membrane. Waterjets with 0.2 mm and 0.6 mm diameter, a stand-off distance of 5 mm, and a traverse speed of 0.5 mm/s were used to cut interface tissue samples in half. The water flow through the nozzle was controlled by means of a valve. By changing the flow, the resulting waterjet pressure was regulated. Tissue sample thickness and the required waterjet pressures were measured. Mean thickness of the samples tested within the 0.2 mm nozzle group was 2.3 mm (SD 0.7 mm) and within the 0.6 mm nozzle group 2.6 mm (SD 0.9 mm). The required waterjet pressure to cut samples was between 10 and 12 MPa for the 0.2 mm nozzle and between 5 and 10 MPa for the 0.6 mm nozzle. Cutting bone or bone cement requires about 3 times higher waterjet pressure (30-50 MPa, depending on used nozzle diameter) and therefore we consider waterjet cutting as a safe technique to be used for minimally invasive interface tissue removal. Copyright © 2015 IPEM. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Percentage of free prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a useful method in deciding to perform prostate biopsy with higher core numbers in patients with low PSA cut-off values.

PubMed

Yilmaz, Hasan; Ciftci, Seyfettin; Yavuz, Ufuk; Ustuner, Murat; Saribacak, Ali; Dillioglugil, Ozdal

2015-06-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the predictive role of percentage of free prostate-specific antigen (%fPSA) cut-points in prostate cancer (PCa) detection in patients with total PSA (tPSA) levels between 2.5 ng/mL and 10.0 ng/mL. In total, 1321 consecutive initial transrectal ultrasound (TRUS)-guided 12-core biopsies performed between 2005 and 2011 were evaluated retrospectively. Benign pathologies, high-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia, and atypical small acinary proliferations were categorized as noncancerous (benign), and prostate adenocarcinomas were categorized as cancerous (malignant). The patients were categorized according to: Catalona's published %fPSA categories (<10%, 10-15%, 15-20%, 20-25%, or > 25%); digital rectal examination (DRE) results [benign (negative) or suspicious of malignancy (positive)]. There was a significant relationship between the %fPSA cut-points and detection of PCa in DRE-negative patients. The presence of a 10% cut-point increased the probability of PCa threefold. The %fPSA was significantly more related to PCa than the tPSA value in receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses (p = 0.001). Based on our findings, a lower %fPSA, especially <10%, is an important parameter when deciding whether to perform a biopsy on patients with a tPSA between 2.5 ng/mL and 10 ng/mL. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Taiwan.

Laser processing of phenolic wood substitutes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Quintero, F.; Riveiro, A.; Lusquiños, F.; Penide, J.; Arias-González, F.; del Val, J.; Comesaña, R.; Boutinguiza, M.; Pou, J.

2013-11-01

Phenolic resin boards (PRB) are wood substitutes that comprises of a thick core exclusively made of phenolic resin covered by a thin sheet of melamine resin imitating the aspect of natural wood. The use of these materials in furniture and in construction industry has proliferated during last years. Boards made of phenolic resins are dense, hard and very difficult to cut using band saws, disc saws, or milling cutters. Nevertheless, these difficulties can be overcome by means of laser cutting, which is one of the most firmly established techniques for separating materials. This is due to the great advantages of this technique over traditional cutting methods, such as its versatility and flexibility that allow effective cutting. Nevertheless, charring of the cut edge surface caused by laser induced thermal degradation degrades the cut quality under non-optimized processing conditions. In this research work the viability and quality of CO2 laser cutting process of phenolic resin boards and wood particleboard panels has been evaluated. The present work validates the cut of phenolic resin boards by CO2 lasers using a high laser power and elevated cutting speeds. Moreover, this process involves a serious health hazard since the combustion and decomposition of wood may produce fumes and vapors, which can be toxic and carcinogenic according to the International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSC). Therefore, this work was complemented by the assessment of the potential toxicity of the condensed residues formed on the cut edges, and assessment of the chemistry of the generated fumes by chromatography.

Visual illusion in mass estimation of cut food.

PubMed

Wada, Yuji; Tsuzuki, Daisuke; Kobayashi, Naoki; Hayakawa, Fumiyo; Kohyama, Kaoru

2007-07-01

We investigated the effect of the appearance of cut food on visual mass estimation. In this experiment, we manipulated the shape (e.g., a block, fine strips, or small cubes) of food samples of various masses, and presented them on a CRT display as stimuli. Eleven subjects participated in tasks to choose the picture of the food sample which they felt indicated a target mass. We used raw carrots and surimi (ground fish) gel as hard and soft samples, respectively. The results clearly confirm an existence of an illusion, and this indicates that the appearance of food interferes with visual mass estimation. Specifically, participants often overestimated the mass of finely cut food, especially fine strips, whereas they could accurately estimate the mass of block samples, regardless of the physical characteristics of the foods. The overestimation of the mass of cut food increased with the food's actual mass, and was particularly obvious with increases of apparent volume when cut into fine strips. These results suggest that the apparent volume of a food sample effects the visual estimation of its mass. Hence we can conclude that there are illusions associated with the visual presentation of food that may influence various food impressions, including satisfaction and eating behaviour.

Removal of the Plutonium Recycle Test Reactor - 13031

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

Herzog, C. Brad; Guercia, Rudolph; LaCome, Matt

2013-07-01

The 309 Facility housed the Plutonium Recycle Test Reactor (PRTR), an operating test reactor in the 300 Area at Hanford, Washington. The reactor first went critical in 1960 and was originally used for experiments under the Hanford Site Plutonium Fuels Utilization Program. The facility was decontaminated and decommissioned in 1988-1989, and the facility was deactivated in 1994. The 309 facility was added to Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) response actions as established in an Interim Record of Decision (IROD) and Action Memorandum (AM). The IROD directs a remedial action for the 309 facility, associated waste sites, associatedmore » underground piping and contaminated soils resulting from past unplanned releases. The AM directs a removal action through physical demolition of the facility, including removal of the reactor. Both CERCLA actions are implemented in accordance with U.S. EPA approved Remedial Action Work Plan, and the Remedial Design Report / Remedial Action Report associated with the Hanford 300-FF-2 Operable Unit. The selected method for remedy was to conventionally demolish above grade structures including the easily distinguished containment vessel dome, remove the PRTR and a minimum of 300 mm (12 in) of shielding as a single 560 Ton unit, and conventionally demolish the below grade structure. Initial sample core drilling in the Bio-Shield for radiological surveys showed evidence that the Bio-Shield was of sound structure. Core drills for the separation process of the PRTR from the 309 structure began at the deck level and revealed substantial thermal degradation of at least the top 1.2 m (4LF) of Bio-Shield structure. The degraded structure combined with the original materials used in the Bio-Shield would not allow for a stable structure to be extracted. The water used in the core drilling process proved to erode the sand mixture of the Bio-Shield leaving the steel aggregate to act as ball bearings against the core drill bit. A redesign is being completed to extract the 309 PRTR and entire Bio-Shield structure together as one monolith weighing 1100 Ton by cutting structural concrete supports. In addition, the PRTR has hundreds of contaminated process tubes and pipes that have to be severed to allow for a uniformly flush fit with a lower lifting frame. Thirty-two 50 mm (2 in) core drills must be connected with thirty-two wire saw cuts to allow for lifting columns to be inserted. Then eight primary saw cuts must be completed to severe the PRTR from the 309 Facility. Once the weight of the PRTR is transferred to the lifting frame, then the PRTR may be lifted out of the facility. The critical lift will be executed using four 450 Ton strand jacks mounted on a 9 m (30 LF) tall mobile lifting frame that will allow the PRTR to be transported by eight 600 mm (24 in) Slide Shoes. The PRTR will then be placed on a twenty-four line, double wide, self powered Goldhofer for transfer to the onsite CERCLA Disposal Cell (ERDF Facility), approximately 33 km (20 miles) away. (authors)« less

Shallow Slip Localization Along Megathrusts: Investigating the Role of Scaly Fabric

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vannucchi, P.

2015-12-01

Scaly fabric is classically interpreted as a low strain-rate structure, resulting from progressive shearing with episodic formation and destruction of oriented and flattened clay layers and aggregates. Scientific Ocean drilling of the Japan Trench in response to the 2011 Tohoku-Oki EQ sampled the active plate-boundary décollement zone in a place of known, large, and very recent displacement. The visual inspection of core material from the plate boundary décollement reveals a clay layer with scaly fabric, cut by a sharp discontinuity that may be the record of co-seismic slip (Chester et al., 2013). This result brought to the need to re-evaluate the role and the characteristics of scaly fabric. Scaly fabric is the typical meso/microstructure marking the location of slip concentration in all the active décollements cored near the trench (i.e. Barbados, Nankai, Costa Rica, Japan Trench) and in analogue fossil examples cropping out onland. Scaly fabric tends to form self-similar patterns, and usually areas with smaller phacoids are interpreted as more deformed. We know that scaliness develops in the early stages of deformation, that the slip surfaces defining the phacoids are sharp and they do not occur randomly, that they grow and coalesce forming a progressively finer anastomosing network, and that eventually the anastomoising slip surfaces are "enhanced" or "cut" by straight slip surfaces. Advances in identifying detailed evolutionary history of slip localization from scaly fabric to discrete surfaces have been paralleled by laboratory experiments. Here we try to summarize direct and indirect information on physical properties of clay layers deformed at shallow depth and, possibly, their links to the seismic cycle. These challenges include future work on the role of scaly fabric on earthquake deformation along faults.

Expedient Spall Repair Methods and Equipment for Airfield Pavements Preprint

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-08-01

placement (3). RESEACH OBJECTIVES AND SCOPE The objective of this research was to develop one or more methods that will allow field personnel to...cores were used to perform in-situ tensile pull-off tests to evaluate the bond between the repair material and the substrate. Also, a series of 4...inch diameters cores were cut, and direct shear tests were performed on the repair material/substrate interface. Finally, all spalls were trafficked for

Fabrication of a First Article Lightweight Composite Technology Demonstrator - Exospine

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-01-01

core, (b) 0/90, and (c) ± 45 ply cuts of ACG-MTM 45-1/CF0526 prepreg fabric...onboard diagnostics. 2. Experimental 2.1 Materials Plain woven carbon fiber/epoxy prepreg and a low-density foam core were provided to ARL for the...fabrication of the exospine technology demonstrator by UD-CCM. The prepreg was ACG - MTM∗ 45-1/CF0526 and has a cured ply thickness of 0.201 mm. It is

Biostratigraphic restudy documents Triassic/Jurassic section in Georges Bank COST G-2 well

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

Cousminer, H.L.; Steinkraus, W.E.; Hall, R.E.

1984-04-01

In 1977, the COST G-2 well as drilled in Georges Bank, 132 mi (212 km) east of Nantucket Island to a total depth of 21,874 ft (6667 m). Biostratigraphic studies of 363 sidewall and conventional cores and 695 cutting samples resulted in a detailed zonation from the Late Jurassic to the present. Restudy of the original samples, as well as new preparations from previously unstudied core material, resulted in revision of the zonation of the Late Jurassic and older section. On the basis of our study of pollen and spores, dinoflagellates, nannofossils, and foraminifers, we revised the age sequence asmore » follows: 5856 ft (1785 m) Late Jurassic (Thithonian); 6000 ft (1829 m) Kimmeridgian; 6420 ft (1957 m) Oxfordian; 6818 ft (2078 m) Callovian; 8200 ft (2499 m) Bathonian; 9677 ft (2950 m) Bajocian; 14567 ft (4440 m) Norian (Late Triassic). Norian dinoflagellate cysts and Tasmanites sp. indicate that intermittent normal marine sedimentation was taking place on Georges Bank as early as Norian time, although most of the Triassic section (+14,500 ft or 4420 m to T.D.) interpreted as having been deposited under evaporitic sabkha-like conditions. The Norian dinoflagellates (Noricysta, Heibergella, Hebecysta, Suessia, Dapcodinium, and Rhombodella) include species common to both Arctic Canada and the Tethyan region, indicating a possible Late Triassic marine connection.« less

Culturable prokaryotic diversity of deep, gas hydrate sediments: first use of a continuous high-pressure, anaerobic, enrichment and isolation system for subseafloor sediments (DeepIsoBUG)

PubMed Central

Parkes, R John; Sellek, Gerard; Webster, Gordon; Martin, Derek; Anders, Erik; Weightman, Andrew J; Sass, Henrik

2009-01-01

Deep subseafloor sediments may contain depressurization-sensitive, anaerobic, piezophilic prokaryotes. To test this we developed the DeepIsoBUG system, which when coupled with the HYACINTH pressure-retaining drilling and core storage system and the PRESS core cutting and processing system, enables deep sediments to be handled without depressurization (up to 25 MPa) and anaerobic prokaryotic enrichments and isolation to be conducted up to 100 MPa. Here, we describe the system and its first use with subsurface gas hydrate sediments from the Indian Continental Shelf, Cascadia Margin and Gulf of Mexico. Generally, highest cell concentrations in enrichments occurred close to in situ pressures (14 MPa) in a variety of media, although growth continued up to at least 80 MPa. Predominant sequences in enrichments were Carnobacterium, Clostridium, Marinilactibacillus and Pseudomonas, plus Acetobacterium and Bacteroidetes in Indian samples, largely independent of media and pressures. Related 16S rRNA gene sequences for all of these Bacteria have been detected in deep, subsurface environments, although isolated strains were piezotolerant, being able to grow at atmospheric pressure. Only the Clostridium and Acetobacterium were obligate anaerobes. No Archaea were enriched. It may be that these sediment samples were not deep enough (total depth 1126–1527 m) to obtain obligate piezophiles. PMID:19694787

Spatial and temporal distributions of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in sediments from the Songhua River, China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dong, D.; Guo, Z.; Liu, X.; Hua, X.; Liang, D.

2013-12-01

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), a class of typical persistent organic pollutants, widely exist in the environment and are potentially harmful to human health. They can enter the waters through atmospheric deposition, soil leaching, shipping, sewage discharges and surface runoff. In recent years, many studies on the distributions of PAHs in major rivers, lakes and bays around the world have been carried out. In this study, 9 surface sediments (0-10cm) were sampled from the Songhua River in Jilin and Heilongjiang provinces. The contents of 16 PAHs in the US Environmental Protection Agency list of priority pollutants were determined and their spatial distributions were discussed. Sediment cores (50cm length) in three oxbow lakes in this area were also collected and cut into 2 cm thickness sub-samples. PAHs concentrations in these samples were determined and the cores were dated using a 210Pb geochronology technique. Finally, the sedimentary history of PAHs in the Songhua River since the 1920s was revealed. Results indicated that total concentration of the 16 PAHs analyzed in the surface sediments was 187-2079 ng/g (dry weight), and the mean was 1029 ng/g. Sediments collected from near urban areas (Jilin and Harbin City) contained higher PAHs content. Compared with the domestic and international rivers, the PAHs content in this river sediments is at a medium level. The PAHs profiles showed that 2-3 ring PAHs, especially naphthalene, were dominant in all of the samples. Sedimentary flux can reflect the accumulating history of pollutants better. The PAHs fluxes were low and varied little from the 1920s to 1970s, but higher PAH fluxes were found since the 1980s in each core (Fig. 1). The PAHs sedimentary flux near Harbin City (Shuangcheng) was found changed remarkably. We inferred that the PAHs might be influenced by hydrological conditions, population mobility and economic activity in this area. PAHs sedimentary record in the Songhua River revealed that the economic development in large cities in this area lagged behind the environmental protection. Acknowledgments: This work was supported by Specialized Research Fund for the Doctoral Program of Higher Education (No. 20100061110041), and the Major Science and Technology Program for Water Pollution Control and Treatment, China (No. 2009ZX0707-001-03). Fig. 1 PAHs fluxes vs. year in sediment cores from Songyuan, Shuangcheng (Harbin) and Mulan

SALTON SEA SCIENTIFIC DRILLING PROJECT: SCIENTIFIC PROGRAM.

USGS Publications Warehouse

Sass, J.H.; Elders, W.A.

1986-01-01

The Salton Sea Scientific Drilling Project, was spudded on 24 October 1985, and reached a total depth of 10,564 ft. (3. 2 km) on 17 March 1986. There followed a period of logging, a flow test, and downhole scientific measurements. The scientific goals were integrated smoothly with the engineering and economic objectives of the program and the ideal of 'science driving the drill' in continental scientific drilling projects was achieved in large measure. The principal scientific goals of the project were to study the physical and chemical processes involved in an active, magmatically driven hydrothermal system. To facilitate these studies, high priority was attached to four areas of sample and data collection, namely: (1) core and cuttings, (2) formation fluids, (3) geophysical logging, and (4) downhole physical measurements, particularly temperatures and pressures.

Operational Philosophy for the Advanced Test Reactor National Scientific User Facility

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

J. Benson; J. Cole; J. Jackson

2013-02-01

In 2007, the Department of Energy (DOE) designated the Advanced Test Reactor (ATR) as a National Scientific User Facility (NSUF). At its core, the ATR NSUF Program combines access to a portion of the available ATR radiation capability, the associated required examination and analysis facilities at the Idaho National Laboratory (INL), and INL staff expertise with novel ideas provided by external contributors (universities, laboratories, and industry). These collaborations define the cutting edge of nuclear technology research in high-temperature and radiation environments, contribute to improved industry performance of current and future light-water reactors (LWRs), and stimulate cooperative research between user groupsmore » conducting basic and applied research. To make possible the broadest access to key national capability, the ATR NSUF formed a partnership program that also makes available access to critical facilities outside of the INL. Finally, the ATR NSUF has established a sample library that allows access to pre-irradiated samples as needed by national research teams.« less

Drilling informatics: data-driven challenges of scientific drilling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yamada, Yasuhiro; Kyaw, Moe; Saito, Sanny

2017-04-01

The primary aim of scientific drilling is to precisely understand the dynamic nature of the Earth. This is the reason why we investigate the subsurface materials (rock and fluid including microbial community) existing under particular environmental conditions. This requires sample collection and analytical data production from the samples, and in-situ data measurement at boreholes. Current available data comes from cores, cuttings, mud logging, geophysical logging, and exploration geophysics, but these datasets are difficult to be integrated because of their different kinds and scales. Now we are producing more useful datasets to fill the gap between the exiting data and extracting more information from such datasets and finally integrating the information. In particular, drilling parameters are very useful datasets as geomechanical properties. We believe such approach, 'drilling informatics', would be the most appropriate to obtain the comprehensive and dynamic picture of our scientific target, such as the seismogenic fault zone and the Moho discontinuity surface. This presentation introduces our initiative and current achievements of drilling informatics.

Method and apparatus for automatically tracking a workpiece surface. [Patents

DOEpatents

Not Available

1981-02-03

Laser cutting concepts and apparatus have been developed for cutting the shroud of the core fuel subassemblies. However, much care must be taken in the accuracy of the cutting since the fuel rods within the shroud often become warped and are forced into direct contact with the shroud in random regions. Thus, in order to cut the nuclear fuel rod shroud accurately so as not to puncture the cladding of the fuel rods, and to insure optimal cutting efficiency and performance, the focal point of beam need be maintained accurately at the workpiece surface. It becomes necessary to detect deviations in the level of the workpiece surface accurately in connection with the cutting process. Therefore, a method and apparatus for tracking the surface of a workpiece being cut by a laser beam coming from a focus head assembly is disclosed which includes two collimated laser beams directed onto the work-piece surface at spaced points by beam directing optics in generally parallel planes of incidence. A shift in spacing between the two points is detected by means of a video camera system and processed by a computer to yield a workpiece surface displacement signal which is input to a motor which raises or lowers the beam focus head accordingly.

Waveguides for performing enzymatic reactions

DOEpatents

Levene; Michael J. , Korlach; Jonas , Turner; Stephen W. , Craighead; Harold G. , Webb; Watt W.

2007-11-06

The present invention is directed to a method and an apparatus for analysis of an analyte. The method involves providing a zero-mode waveguide which includes a cladding surrounding a core where the cladding is configured to preclude propagation of electromagnetic energy of a frequency less than a cutoff frequency longitudinally through the core of the zero-mode waveguide. The analyte is positioned in the core of the zero-mode waveguide and is then subjected, in the core of the zero-mode wave guide, to activating electromagnetic radiation of a frequency less than the cut-off frequency under conditions effective to permit analysis of the analyte in an effective observation volume which is more compact than if the analysis were carried out in the absence of the zero-mode waveguide.

Zero-mode waveguides

DOEpatents

Levene, Michael J.; Korlach, Jonas; Turner, Stephen W.; Craighead, Harold G.; Webb, Watt W.

2007-02-20

The present invention is directed to a method and an apparatus for analysis of an analyte. The method involves providing a zero-mode waveguide which includes a cladding surrounding a core where the cladding is configured to preclude propagation of electromagnetic energy of a frequency less than a cutoff frequency longitudinally through the core of the zero-mode waveguide. The analyte is positioned in the core of the zero-mode waveguide and is then subjected, in the core of the zero-mode waveguide, to activating electromagnetic radiation of a frequency less than the cut-off frequency under conditions effective to permit analysis of the analyte in an effective observation volume which is more compact than if the analysis were carried out in the absence of the zero-mode waveguide.

Handling and reporting of transperineal template prostate biopsy in Europe: a web-based survey by the European Network of Uropathology (ENUP).

PubMed

Kammerer-Jacquet, Solene-Florence; Compérat, Eva; Egevad, Lars; Hes, Ondra; Oxley, Jon; Varma, Murali; Kristiansen, Glen; Berney, Daniel M

2018-04-01

Transperineal template prostate biopsies (TTPB) are performed for assessments after unexpected negative transrectal ultrasound biopsies (TRUSB), correlation with imaging findings and during active surveillance. The impact of TTPBs on pathology has not been analysed. The European Network of Uropathology (ENUP) distributed a survey on TTPB, including how specimens were received, processed and analysed. Two hundred forty-four replies were received from 22 countries with TTPBs seen by 68.4% of the responders (n = 167). Biopsies were received in more than 12 pots in 35.2%. The number of cores embedded per cassette varied between 1 (39.5%) and 3 or more (39.5%). Three levels were cut in 48.3%, between 2 and 3 serial sections in 57.2% and unstained spare sections in 45.1%. No statistical difference was observed with TRUSB management. The number of positive cores was always reported and the majority gave extent per core (82.3%), per region (67.1%) and greatest involvement per core (69.4%). Total involvement in the whole series and continuous/discontinuous infiltrates were reported in 42.2 and 45.4%, respectively. The majority (79.4%) reported Gleason score in each site or core, and 59.6% gave an overall score. A minority (28.5%) provided a map or a diagram. For 19%, TTPB had adversely affected laboratory workload with only 27% managing to negotiate extra costs. Most laboratories process samples thoroughly and report TTPB similarly to TRUSB. Although TTPB have caused considerable extra work, it remains uncosted in most centres. Guidance is needed for workload impact and minimum standards of processing if TTPB work continues to increase.

Description of core samples returned by Apollo 12

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lindsay, J. F.; Fryxell, R.

1971-01-01

Three core samples were collected by the Apollo 12 astronauts. Two are single cores, one of which (sample 12026) was collected close to the lunar module during the first extravehicular activity period and is 19.3 centimeters long. The second core (sample 12027) was collected at Sharp Crater during the second extravehicular activity period and is 17.4 centimeters long. The third sample is a double core (samples 12025 and 12028), which was collected near Halo Crater during the second extravehicular activity period. Unlike the other cores, the double-drive-tube core sample has complex layering with at least 10 clearly defined stratigraphic units. This core sample is approximately 41 centimeters long.

Auto-Gopher: A Wire-Line Rotary-Hammer Ultrasonic Drill

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Badescu, Mircea; Sherrit, Stewart; Bao, Xiaogi; Bar-Cohen, Yoseph; Chen, Beck

2011-01-01

Developing technologies that would enable NASA to sample rock, soil, and ice by coring, drilling or abrading at a significant depth is of great importance for a large number of in-situ exploration missions as well as for earth applications. Proven techniques to sample Mars subsurface will be critical for future NASA astrobiology missions that will search for records of past and present life on the planet, as well as, the search for water and other resources. A deep corer, called Auto-Gopher, is currently being developed as a joint effort of the JPL's NDEAA laboratory and Honeybee Robotics Corp. The Auto-Gopher is a wire-line rotary-hammer drill that combines rock breaking by hammering using an ultrasonic actuator and cuttings removal by rotating a fluted bit. The hammering mechanism is based on the Ultrasonic/Sonic Drill/Corer (USDC) that has been developed as an adaptable tool for many of drilling and coring applications. The USDC uses an intermediate free-flying mass to transform the high frequency vibrations of the horn tip into a sonic hammering of a drill bit. The USDC concept was used in a previous task to develop an Ultrasonic/Sonic Ice Gopher. The lessons learned from testing the ice gopher were implemented into the design of the Auto-Gopher by inducing a rotary motion onto the fluted coring bit. A wire-line version of such a system would allow penetration of significant depth without a large increase in mass. A laboratory version of the corer was developed in the NDEAA lab to determine the design and drive parameters of the integrated system. The design configuration lab version of the design and fabrication and preliminary testing results are presented in this paper

Publications - GMC 201 | Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical

Science.gov Websites

(8,319-8,888') from the Texaco Inc. Wolfbutton 32-7-8 well Authors: Unknown Publication Date: 1992 Unknown, 1992, Vitrinite reflectance data of cuttings (630-9,550') and of core (8,319-8,888') from the

The Middle Ordovician Knox unconformity in the Black Warrior Basin

USGS Publications Warehouse

Dwyer, Gary S.; Repetski, John E.

2012-01-01

Based on conodont biostratigraphy from four cores and from a previous study on cuttings from a nearby well, the unconformity is middle Whiterockian in age and likely spans most or all of the Histiodella holodentata Biozone.

A [111]-Cut Si Hemisphere Two-Photon Response Photodetector

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Xiu-Huan; Chen, Zhan-Guo; Jia, Gang; Wang, Hai-Yan; Gao, Yan-Jun; Li, Yi

2011-11-01

Properties of two-photon response in a [111]-cut nearly-intrinsic Si hemisphere photodetector are studied. The measured photocurrent of the photodetector responding to the 1.32μm continuous wave laser shows a quadratic dependence on the coupled optical power and is saturated with the bias voltage. Also, the photocurrent is independent of polarization. Such properties are in good agreement with the theory of two-photon absorption. The isotropic photocurrent generated from the [111]-cut Si hemisphere is compared to the anisotropic one induced in the [110]-cut Si sample and the ratio of χxxxx/χxxyy for silicon performing at 1.32 μm is calculated to be 2.4 via the fitted function of the anisotropic photocurrent from the [110]-cut sample.

Effect of cutting bill requirements on lumber yield in a rip-first rough mill

Treesearch

Urs Buehlmann; Janice K. Wiedenbeck; E. Earl Kline; E. Earl Kline

2003-01-01

In recent years, producers of solid wood dimension parts have emphasized improvements in lumber yield, focusing primarily on lumber grade and cutting technology rather than cutting bill design. Yet, cutting bills have a significant impact on yield. Using rip-first rough mill simulation software, a data bank of red oak lumber samples, and a cutting bill that resembles...

[Comparison of the performance of the ECLusys anti-HCV reagent with the Lumipulse f and HISCL 2000-i HCVAb assays].

PubMed

Sugiura, Aya; Iwahara, Kunihiro; Suga, Yasuyuki; Uchiyama, Sachinori; Maekawa, Masato

2012-09-01

We compared the ECLusys Anti-HCV (ECL) reagent to the Lumipulse f (LPf) and HISCL (HIS) HCV assays. In a correlation test using 210 routine clinical specimens measured using the Lumipulse method (96 positive and 114 negative), most of the results were consistent for all specimens. In a dilution sensitivity test using three different routine positive specimens, the ECL assay enabled detection at higher levels of sensitivity than either the LPf or the HIS assay. Moreover, when the distribution of the cut-off index (C.O.I.) values of the routine LPf negative specimens were compared to those on the ECL and HIS assays, it was found that on the ECL assay, most of the specimens had cut-off index values < 0.1, indicating a more clear-cut distribution. In a specificity test using high RF positive specimens(n = 33), pregnancy specimens (n = 35), cytomegalovirus (CMV) antibody positive specimens (n = 36), and high M protein positive specimens (n = 21), the ECL assay yielded positive results for a CMV antibody positive specimen and three high M protein positive specimens. Further testing using samples from the same patients collected on different days than these four samples resulted in a second positive result for the CMV positive specimen, and single antigen measurement yielded a Core/NS3 positive result, as well, suggesting past infection. However, since negative results were obtained for the three M protein positive specimens, the possibility of this being a ECLusys non-specific reaction could not be ruled out. The above results confirmed that the ECL assay provides superior fundamental performance, and possesses test performance nearly identical to that of the existing measurement methods that are widely used at a large number of facilities, and would therefore be a suitable assay for use in routine HCV antibody screening.

A Mars Sample Return Sample Handling System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wilson, David; Stroker, Carol

2013-01-01

We present a sample handling system, a subsystem of the proposed Dragon landed Mars Sample Return (MSR) mission [1], that can return to Earth orbit a significant mass of frozen Mars samples potentially consisting of: rock cores, subsurface drilled rock and ice cuttings, pebble sized rocks, and soil scoops. The sample collection, storage, retrieval and packaging assumptions and concepts in this study are applicable for the NASA's MPPG MSR mission architecture options [2]. Our study assumes a predecessor rover mission collects samples for return to Earth to address questions on: past life, climate change, water history, age dating, understanding Mars interior evolution [3], and, human safety and in-situ resource utilization. Hence the rover will have "integrated priorities for rock sampling" [3] that cover collection of subaqueous or hydrothermal sediments, low-temperature fluidaltered rocks, unaltered igneous rocks, regolith and atmosphere samples. Samples could include: drilled rock cores, alluvial and fluvial deposits, subsurface ice and soils, clays, sulfates, salts including perchlorates, aeolian deposits, and concretions. Thus samples will have a broad range of bulk densities, and require for Earth based analysis where practical: in-situ characterization, management of degradation such as perchlorate deliquescence and volatile release, and contamination management. We propose to adopt a sample container with a set of cups each with a sample from a specific location. We considered two sample cups sizes: (1) a small cup sized for samples matching those submitted to in-situ characterization instruments, and, (2) a larger cup for 100 mm rock cores [4] and pebble sized rocks, thus providing diverse samples and optimizing the MSR sample mass payload fraction for a given payload volume. We minimize sample degradation by keeping them frozen in the MSR payload sample canister using Peltier chip cooling. The cups are sealed by interference fitted heat activated memory alloy caps [5] if the heating does not affect the sample, or by crimping caps similar to bottle capping. We prefer cap sealing surfaces be external to the cup rim to prevent sample dust inside the cups interfering with sealing, or, contamination of the sample by Teflon seal elements (if adopted). Finally the sample collection rover, or a Fetch rover, selects cups with best choice samples and loads them into a sample tray, before delivering it to the Earth Return Vehicle (ERV) in the MSR Dragon capsule as described in [1] (Fig 1). This ensures best use of the MSR payload mass allowance. A 3 meter long jointed robot arm is extended from the Dragon capsule's crew hatch, retrieves the sample tray and inserts it into the sample canister payload located on the ERV stage. The robot arm has capacity to obtain grab samples in the event of a rover failure. The sample canister has a robot arm capture casting to enable capture by crewed or robot spacecraft when it returns to Earth orbit

Studies in fiber guided excimer laser surgery for cutting and drilling bone and meniscus.

PubMed

Dressel, M; Jahn, R; Neu, W; Jungbluth, K H

1991-01-01

Our experiments on transmitting high-power excimer laser pulses through optical fibers and our investigations on excimer laser ablation of hard tissue show the feasibility of using the excimer laser as an additional instrument in general and accident surgery involving minimal invasive surgery. By combining XeCl-excimer lasers and tapered fused silica fibers we obtained output fluences up to 32 J/cm2 and ablation rates of 3 microns/pulse of hard tissue. This enables us to cut bone and cartilage in a period of time which is suitable for clinical operations. Various experiments were carried out on cadavers in order to optimize the parameters of the excimer laser and fibers: e.g., wavelength, pulse duration, energy, repetition rate, fiber core diameter. The surfaces of the cut tissue are comparable to cuts with conventional instruments. No carbonisation was observed. The temperature increase is below 40 degrees C in the tissue surrounding the laser spot. The healing rate of an excimer laser cut is not slower than mechanical treatments; the quality is comparable.

Analysis of Listeria monocytogenes strain distribution in a pork slaughter and cutting plant in the province of Quebec.

PubMed

Larivière-Gauthier, Guillaume; Letellier, Ann; Kérouanton, Annaëlle; Bekal, Sadjia; Quessy, Sylvain; Fournaise, Sylvain; Fravalo, Philippe

2014-12-01

Following the 2008 Canadian listeriosis outbreak associated with ready-to-eat (RTE) meat products, regulations on the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in RTE food production facilities were modified by Health Canada, confirming the need to control this pathogen, not only in the final product but also in the plant environment. Information on the occurrence of this microorganism during the early steps of production, such as the slaughtering process and in the cutting area, is scarce in Canada. In this study, we sampled different production steps in a slaughtering and cutting plant in the province of Quebec over a 2-year period. The lairage pens, representative areas of the slaughter line, and cutting zones were targeted after their respective cleaning procedures. A total of 874 samples were analyzed for the presence of L. monocytogenes. Characterization was done by first genoserogrouping the isolates using multiplex PCR and then using a pulsed-field gel electrophoresis approach. L. monocytogenes was detected throughout all production stages. The 108 positive samples found were analyzed further, and we established that there were 4 different serogroups, with serogroup IIb being the most prevalent. The results of pulsed-field gel electrophoresis analysis showed a significant decrease in the diversity of strains from the first areas of the plant to the cutting room (10 pulsotypes in 13 positive samples in lairage and 9 in 86 positive samples in cutting) and also showed the overrepresentation of a single predominant strain in the cutting room environment (type 1, representing 96.1% of the isolates). Biofilm formation analysis of the strains cannot exclusively explain the transitions we observed. A strong genotypic similarity between strains isolated in the early production areas and some strains in the cutting room was shown. These results support the need for better surveillance of L. monocytogenes prior to RTE food production in order to design control strategies that are better adapted from a public health perspective.

Using expired air carbon monoxide to determine smoking status during pregnancy: preliminary identification of an appropriately sensitive and specific cut-point.

PubMed

Bailey, Beth A

2013-10-01

Measurement of carbon monoxide in expired air samples (ECO) is a non-invasive, cost-effective biochemical marker for smoking. Cut points of 6ppm-10ppm have been established, though appropriate cut-points for pregnant woman have been debated due to metabolic changes. This study assessed whether an ECO cut-point identifying at least 90% of pregnant smokers, and misidentifying fewer than 10% of non-smokers, could be established. Pregnant women (N=167) completed a validated self-report smoking assessment, a urine drug screen for cotinine (UDS), and provided an expired air sample twice during pregnancy. Half of women reported non-smoking status early (51%) and late (53%) in pregnancy, confirmed by UDS. Using a traditional 8ppm+cut-point for the early pregnancy reading, only 1% of non-smokers were incorrectly identified as smokers, but only 56% of all smokers, and 67% who smoked 5+ cigarettes in the previous 24h, were identified. However, at 4ppm+, only 8% of non-smokers were misclassified as smokers, and 90% of all smokers and 96% who smoked 5+ cigarettes in the previous 24h were identified. False positives were explained by heavy second hand smoke exposure and marijuana use. Results were similar for late pregnancy ECO, with ROC analysis revealing an area under the curve of .95 for early pregnancy, and .94 for late pregnancy readings. A lower 4ppm ECO cut-point may be necessary to identify pregnant smokers using expired air samples, and this cut-point appears valid throughout pregnancy. Work is ongoing to validate findings in larger samples, but it appears if an appropriate cut-point is used, ECO is a valid method for determining smoking status in pregnancy. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Data from a thick unsaturated zone underlying Oro Grande and Sheep Creek washes in the western part of the Mojave Desert, near Victorville, San Bernardino County, California

USGS Publications Warehouse

Izbicki, John A.; Clark, Dennis A.; Pimental, Maria I.; Land, Michael; Radyk, John C.; Michel, Robert L.

2000-01-01

This report presents data on the physical properties of unsaturated alluvial deposits and on the chemical and isotopic composition of soil water and soil gas collected at 12 monitoring sites in the western part of the Mojave Desert, near Victorville, California. Sites were installed using the ODEX air-hammer method. Seven sites were located in the active channels of Oro Grande and Sheep Creek Washes. The remaining five sites were located away from the active washes. Most sites were drilled to a depth of about 100 feet below land surface; two sites were drilled to the water table almost 650 feet below land surface. Drilling procedures, lithologic and geophysical data, and site construction and instrumentation are described. Core material was analyzed for water content, bulk density, water potential, particle size, and water retention. The chemical composition of leachate from almost 1,000 subsamples of cores and cuttings was determined. Water extracted from selected subsamples of cores was analyzed for tritium and the stable isotopes of oxygen and hydrogen. Water from suction-cup lysimeters and soil-gas samples also were analyzed for chemical and isotopic composition. In addition, data on the chemical and isotopic composition of bulk precipitation from five sites and on ground water from two water-table wells are reported.

The Mojave Subsurface Bio-Geochemistry Explorer (MOSBE)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Guerrero, J.; Beegle, L.; Abbey, W.; Bhartia, R.; Kounaves, S.; Russell, M.; Towles, D.

2012-01-01

The MOSBE Team has developed a terrestrial field campaign to explore two subsurface biological habitats under the Mojave Desert. This field campaign will not only help us understand terrestrial desert biology, but also will develop methodologies and strategies for potential future Mars missions that would seek to explore the Martian subsurface. We have proposed to the ASTEP program to integrate a suite of field demonstrated instruments with a 20 m subsurface drill as a coherent unit, the Mojave Subsurface Bio-geochemistry Explorer. The ATK Space Modular Planetary Drill System (MPDS) requires no drilling fluid, which allows aseptic sampling, can penetrate lithic ground up to 20 meters of depth, and utilizes less than 100 Watts throughout the entire depth. The drill has been developed and demonstrated in field testing to a depth of 10 meters in Arizona, December 2002. In addition to caching a continuous core throughout the drilling depth, it also generates and caches cuttings and fines that are strata-graphically correlated with the core. As a core segment is brought to the surface, it will be analyzed for texture and structure by a color microscopic imager and for relevant chemistry and mineralogy with a UV fluorescence/Raman spectrometer. Organic and soluble ionic species will be identified through two instruments -- a microcapillary electrophoresis, and an ion trap mass spectrometer that have been developed under PIDDP, ASTID and MIDP funding.

A brittle (normal?) shear zone cored in Site C0002 of Nankai Trough Seismogenic Zone Experiment (IODP Expedition 348)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Crespo-Blanc, Ana; Sample, James; Brown, Kevin; Otsubo, Makoto; Yamamoto, Yuzuru

2016-04-01

Integrated Ocean Discovery Program (IODP) Expedition 348, which belongs to the Nankai Trough Seismogenic Zone Experiment, conducted riser-drilling to make deeper an existing hole at Site C0002, up to 3058.5 meters below seafloor (mbsf). This site is located 80 km SE of the Kii Peninsula (Japan) in the Kumano forearc basin, in turn situated on top of the Nankai accretionary prism. Cuttings (875.5-3058.5 mbsf) and cores (2163.0-2217.5 mbsf) were collected in the upper Miocene to Pliocene turbiditic silty claystone with few intercalations of sandstone which characterize the accretionary prism lithological units. A remarkably preserved fault zone has been cored around 2205 mbsf (core section Hole C0002P-348-5R-4). It is characterized by 34 cm of fault breccia, in which an anastomosed cataclastic foliation is present. The rocks of the damaged zone are formed by silty claystone with an incipient scaly fabric and scarce levels of sandstones. Extra-large thin sections were made along the whole core section. In the brittle shear zone, they reveal a catalogue of deformation structures characteristic of a high structural level. In particular, almond-type structures and arrays of microfaults cutting the stratification are the most common structures and outline the cataclastic foliation. The occurrence of calcite veins in the recovered cores is limited to this fault zone, which is indicative of its role as fluid path, accompanied by carbonate cementation. Generally fault veins have lower δ18O values than carbonate cements in the sedimentary matrix, consistent with veins forming at higher temperatures and/or from a fluid more strongly depleted in 18O. A continuum of the relationships between calcite veins and cataclastic deformation is observed, from veins that precipitated early in the fault history, with calcite grains broken during subsequent deformation, to late veins which seal the almond-type structures within the claystones. The geometry of the calcite grains within the veins and the relationship between the veins and the wall rock indicate that the mechanism that actuate during the vein formation is that of crack-seal. It took place along variable growth planes inside the vein and the wall rock (localized and delocalized stretching veins, respectively), which result in asymmetric syntaxial veins. All the observed microfaults produced lengthening of the markers. Together with the mesoscopic criteria (according to the visual core descriptions made onboard), this would indicate that, in its present-day position, this brittle shear zone is associated with a normal fault. Nevertheless, it is not discarded that it could be an early thrust rotated after its development. Acknowledgements: This research used samples provided by IODP. Grants RNM-215 and 451 ("Junta de Andalucía", Spain) and CGL2013-46368-P ("Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad", Spain) supported this study.

Application research of CO2 laser cutting natural stone plates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Lixiu; Song, Jijiang

2009-08-01

Now, the processing of natural stone plates is the high performance sawing machine primarily,many researchers deeply studied the processing characters in the sawing process and the strength characters during the processing. In order to realize the profiled-processing and pattern- carving of the natural stone, It lays a solid foundation for the laser cutting and the pattern-carving technology of natural stone plate. The working principle, type and characteristics of laser cutting are briefly described. The paper selects 6 kinds stone plates of natural taken as experimental sample,the experimental sample was China Shanxi Black, Old Spain Golden Yellow, New Spain Golden Yellow, Jazz White, Maple Leaf Red, Cream White respectively. Use high power CO2 laser cutting system,the stone plates cutting experiment of 6 kinds different hardness, the best working speed are obtained,The experimental results indicate that: The laser cutting speed has no correlation with the ingredient content of stone plate.

Correlates of Cutting Behavior among Sexual Minority Youths and Young Adults

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Walls, N. Eugene; Laser, Julie; Nickels, Sarah J.; Wisneski, Hope

2010-01-01

Using secondary analyses of data from a sample of 265 sexual minority youths, the authors examined correlates of cutting behavior to determine whether patterns are similar to those found in studies of self-injury with community samples of predominately heterosexual youths. The sample consisted of youths who received services at an urban social…

Gas geochemistry of the Mount Elbert Gas Hydrate Stratigraphic Test Well, Alaska North Slope: implications for gas hydrate exploration in the Arctic

USGS Publications Warehouse

Lorenson, T.D.; Collett, T.S.; Hunter, R.B.

2011-01-01

Gases were analyzed from well cuttings, core, gas hydrate, and formation tests at the BPXA-DOE-USGS Mount Elbert Gas Hydrate Stratigraphic Test Well, drilled within the Milne Point Unit, Alaska North Slope. The well penetrated a portion of the Eileen gas hydrate deposit, which overlies the more deeply buried Prudhoe Bay, Milne Point, West Sak, and Kuparuk River oil fields. Gas sources in the upper 200 m are predominantly from microbial sources (C1 isotopic compositions ranging from −86.4 to −80.6‰). The C1 isotopic composition becomes progressively enriched from 200 m to the top of the gas hydrate-bearing sands at 600 m. The tested gas hydrates occur in two primary intervals, units D and C, between 614.0 m and 664.7 m, containing a total of 29.3 m of gas hydrate-bearing sands. The hydrocarbon gases in cuttings and core samples from 604 to 914 m are composed of methane with very little ethane. The isotopic composition of the methane carbon ranges from −50.1 to −43.9‰ with several outliers, generally decreasing with depth. Gas samples collected by the Modular Formation Dynamics Testing (MDT) tool in the hydrate-bearing units were similarly composed mainly of methane, with up to 284 ppm ethane. The methane isotopic composition ranged from −48.2 to −48.0‰ in the C sand and from −48.4 to −46.6‰ in the D sand. Methane hydrogen isotopic composition ranged from −238 to −230‰, with slightly more depleted values in the deeper C sand. These results are consistent with the concept that the Eileen gas hydrates contain a mixture of deep-sourced, microbially biodegraded thermogenic gas, with lesser amounts of thermogenic oil-associated gas, and coal gas. Thermal gases are likely sourced from existing oil and gas accumulations that have migrated up-dip and/or up-fault and formed gas hydrate in response to climate cooling with permafrost formation.

A cautionary note about the cross-national and clinical validity of cut-off points for the Maslach Burnout Inventory.

PubMed

Schaufeli, W B; Van Dierendonck, D

1995-06-01

In the present study, burnout scores of three samples, as measured with the Maslach Burnout Inventory, were compared: (1) the normative American sample from the test-manual (N = 10,067), (2) the normative Dutch sample (N = 3,892), and (3) a Dutch outpatient sample (N = 142). Generally, the highest burnout scores were found for the outpatient sample, followed by the American and Dutch normative samples, respectively. Slightly different patterns were noted for each of the three components. Probably sampling bias, i.e., the healthy worker effect, or cultural value patterns, i.e., femininity versus masculinity, might be responsible for the results. It is concluded that extreme caution is required when cut-off points are used to classify individuals by burnout scores; only nation-specific and clinically derived cut-off points should be employed.

Documenting Differences between Early Stone Age Flake Production Systems: An Experimental Model and Archaeological Verification.

PubMed

Presnyakova, Darya; Archer, Will; Braun, David R; Flear, Wesley

2015-01-01

This study investigates morphological differences between flakes produced via "core and flake" technologies and those resulting from bifacial shaping strategies. We investigate systematic variation between two technological groups of flakes using experimentally produced assemblages, and then apply the experimental model to the Cutting 10 Mid -Pleistocene archaeological collection from Elandsfontein, South Africa. We argue that a specific set of independent variables--and their interactions--including external platform angle, platform depth, measures of thickness variance and flake curvature should distinguish between these two technological groups. The role of these variables in technological group separation was further investigated using the Generalized Linear Model as well as Linear Discriminant Analysis. The Discriminant model was used to classify archaeological flakes from the Cutting 10 locality in terms of their probability of association, within either experimentally developed technological group. The results indicate that the selected independent variables play a central role in separating core and flake from bifacial technologies. Thickness evenness and curvature had the greatest effect sizes in both the Generalized Linear and Discriminant models. Interestingly the interaction between thickness evenness and platform depth was significant and played an important role in influencing technological group membership. The identified interaction emphasizes the complexity in attempting to distinguish flake production strategies based on flake morphological attributes. The results of the discriminant function analysis demonstrate that the majority of flakes at the Cutting 10 locality were not associated with the production of the numerous Large Cutting Tools found at the site, which corresponds with previous suggestions regarding technological behaviors reflected in this assemblage.

Documenting Differences between Early Stone Age Flake Production Systems: An Experimental Model and Archaeological Verification

PubMed Central

Presnyakova, Darya; Archer, Will; Braun, David R.; Flear, Wesley

2015-01-01

This study investigates morphological differences between flakes produced via “core and flake” technologies and those resulting from bifacial shaping strategies. We investigate systematic variation between two technological groups of flakes using experimentally produced assemblages, and then apply the experimental model to the Cutting 10 Mid -Pleistocene archaeological collection from Elandsfontein, South Africa. We argue that a specific set of independent variables—and their interactions—including external platform angle, platform depth, measures of thickness variance and flake curvature should distinguish between these two technological groups. The role of these variables in technological group separation was further investigated using the Generalized Linear Model as well as Linear Discriminant Analysis. The Discriminant model was used to classify archaeological flakes from the Cutting 10 locality in terms of their probability of association, within either experimentally developed technological group. The results indicate that the selected independent variables play a central role in separating core and flake from bifacial technologies. Thickness evenness and curvature had the greatest effect sizes in both the Generalized Linear and Discriminant models. Interestingly the interaction between thickness evenness and platform depth was significant and played an important role in influencing technological group membership. The identified interaction emphasizes the complexity in attempting to distinguish flake production strategies based on flake morphological attributes. The results of the discriminant function analysis demonstrate that the majority of flakes at the Cutting 10 locality were not associated with the production of the numerous Large Cutting Tools found at the site, which corresponds with previous suggestions regarding technological behaviors reflected in this assemblage. PMID:26111251

Influence of Microgravity Environment on Root Growth, Soluble Sugars, and Starch Concentration of Sweetpotato Stem Cuttings

PubMed Central

Mortley, Desmond G.; Bonsi, Conrad K.; Hill, Walter A.; Morris, Carlton E.; Williams, Carol S.; Davis, Ceyla F.; Williams, John W.; Levine, Lanfang H.; Petersen, Barbara V.; Wheeler, Raymond M.

2009-01-01

Because sweetpotato [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.] stem cuttings regenerate very easily and quickly, a study of their early growth and development in microgravity could be useful to an understanding of morphological changes that might occur under such conditions for crops that are propagated vegetatively. An experiment was conducted aboard a U.S. Space Shuttle to investigate the impact of microgravity on root growth, distribution of amyloplasts in the root cells, and on the concentration of soluble sugars and starch in the stems of sweetpotatoes. Twelve stem cuttings of ‘Whatley/Loretan’ sweetpotato (5 cm long) with three to four nodes were grown in each of two plant growth units filled with a nutrient agarose medium impregnated with a half-strength Hoagland solution. One plant growth unit was flown on Space Shuttle Colombia for 5 days, whereas the other remained on the ground as a control. The cuttings were received within 2 h postflight and, along with ground controls, processed in ≈45 min. Adventitious roots were counted, measured, and fixed for electron microscopy and stems frozen for starch and sugar assays. Air samples were collected from the headspace of each plant growth unit for postflight determination of carbon dioxide, oxygen, and ethylene levels. All stem cuttings produced adventitious roots and growth was quite vigorous in both ground-based and flight samples and, except for a slight browning of some root tips in the flight samples, all stem cuttings appeared normal. The roots on the flight cuttings tended to grow in random directions. Also, stem cuttings grown in microgravity had more roots and greater total root length than ground-based controls. Amyloplasts in root cap cells of ground-based controls were evenly sedimented toward one end compared with a more random distribution in the flight samples. The concentration of soluble sugars, glucose, fructose, and sucrose and total starch concentration were all substantially greater in the stems of flight samples than those found in the ground-based samples. Carbon dioxide levels were 50% greater and oxygen marginally lower in the flight plants, whereas ethylene levels were similar and averaged less than 10 nL·L −1. Despite the greater accumulation of carbohydrates in the stems, and greater root growth in the flight cuttings, overall results showed minimal differences in cell development between space flight and ground-based tissues. This suggests that the space flight environment did not adversely impact sweetpotato metabolism and that vegetative cuttings should be an acceptable approach for propagating sweetpotato plants for space applications. PMID:20186286

CHANG-ES - XI. Circular polarization in the cores of nearby galaxies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Irwin, Judith A.; Henriksen, Richard N.; WeŻgowiec, Marek; Damas-Segovia, Ancor; Wang, Q. Daniel; Krause, Marita; Heald, George; Dettmar, Ralf-Jürgen; Li, Jiang-Tao; Wiegert, Theresa; Stein, Yelena; Braun, Timothy T.; Im, Jisung; Schmidt, Philip; Macdonald, Scott; Miskolczi, Arpad; Merritt, Alison; Mora-Partiarroyo, S. C.; Saikia, D. J.; Sotomayor, Carlos; Yang, Yang

2018-06-01

We detect five galaxies in the Continuum Halos in Nearby Galaxies - an EVLA Survey (CHANG-ES) sample that show circular polarization (CP) at L band in our high-resolution data sets. Two of the galaxies (NGC 4388 and NGC 4845) show strong Stokes V/I ≡ mC ˜ 2 per cent, two (NGC 660 and NGC 3628) have values of mC ˜ 0.3 per cent, and NGC 3079 is a marginal detection at mC ˜ 0.2 per cent. The two strongest mC galaxies also have the most luminous X-ray cores and the strongest internal absorption in X-rays. We have expanded on our previous Faraday conversion interpretation and analysis and provide analytical expressions for the expected V signal for a general case in which the cosmic ray (CR) electron energy spectral index can take on any value. We provide examples as to how such expressions could be used to estimate magnetic field strengths and the lower energy cut-off for CR electrons. Four of our detections are resolved, showing unique structures, including a jet in NGC 4388 and a CP `conversion disc' in NGC 4845. The conversion disc is inclined to the galactic disc but is perpendicular to a possible outflow direction. Such CP structures have never before been seen in any galaxy to our knowledge. None of the galaxy cores show linear polarization at L band. Thus radio CP may provide a unique probe of the physical conditions in the cores of active galactic nuclei.

Operationalizing hippocampal volume as an enrichment biomarker for amnestic MCI trials: effect of algorithm, test-retest variability and cut-point on trial cost, duration and sample size

PubMed Central

Yu, P.; Sun, J.; Wolz, R.; Stephenson, D.; Brewer, J.; Fox, N.C.; Cole, P.E.; Jack, C.R.; Hill, D.L.G.; Schwarz, A.J.

2014-01-01

Objective To evaluate the effect of computational algorithm, measurement variability and cut-point on hippocampal volume (HCV)-based patient selection for clinical trials in mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Methods We used normal control and amnestic MCI subjects from ADNI-1 as normative reference and screening cohorts. We evaluated the enrichment performance of four widely-used hippocampal segmentation algorithms (FreeSurfer, HMAPS, LEAP and NeuroQuant) in terms of two-year changes in MMSE, ADAS-Cog and CDR-SB. We modeled the effect of algorithm, test-retest variability and cut-point on sample size, screen fail rates and trial cost and duration. Results HCV-based patient selection yielded not only reduced sample sizes (by ~40–60%) but also lower trial costs (by ~30–40%) across a wide range of cut-points. Overall, the dependence on the cut-point value was similar for the three clinical instruments considered. Conclusion These results provide a guide to the choice of HCV cut-point for aMCI clinical trials, allowing an informed trade-off between statistical and practical considerations. PMID:24211008

Development of sustained and dual drug release co-extrusion formulations for individual dosing.

PubMed

Laukamp, Eva Julia; Vynckier, An-Katrien; Voorspoels, Jody; Thommes, Markus; Breitkreutz, Joerg

2015-01-01

In personalized medicine and patient-centered medical treatment individual dosing of medicines is crucial. The Solid Dosage Pen (SDP) allows for an individual dosing of solid drug carriers by cutting them into tablet-like slices. The aim of the present study was the development of sustained release and dual release formulations with carbamazepine (CBZ) via hot-melt co-extrusion for the use in the SDP. The selection of appropriate coat- and core-formulations was performed by adapting the mechanical properties (like tensile strength and E-modulus) for example. By using different excipients (polyethyleneglycols, poloxamers, white wax, stearic acid, and carnauba wax) and drug loadings (30-50%) tailored dissolution kinetics was achieved showing cube root or zero order release mechanisms. Besides a biphasic drug release, the dose-dependent dissolution characteristics of sustained release formulations were minimized by a co-extruded wax-coated formulation. The dissolution profiles of the co-extrudates were confirmed during short term stability study (six months at 21.0 ± 0.2 °C, 45%r.h.). Due to a good layer adhesion of core and coat and adequate mechanical properties (maximum cutting force of 35.8 ± 2.0 N and 26.4 ± 2.8 N and E-modulus of 118.1 ± 8.4 and 33.9 ± 4.5 MPa for the dual drug release and the wax-coated co-extrudates, respectively) cutting off doses via the SDP was precise. While differences of the process parameters (like the barrel temperature) between the core- and the coat-layer resulted in unsatisfying content uniformities for the wax-coated co-extrudates, the content uniformity of the dual drug release co-extrudates was found to be in compliance with pharmacopoeial specification. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Enhanced performance of an S-band fiber laser using a thulium-doped photonic crystal fiber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Muhammad, A. R.; Emami, S. D.; Hmood, J. K.; Sayar, K.; Penny, R.; Abdul-Rashid, H. A.; Ahmad, H.; Harun, S. W.

2014-11-01

This work proposes a new method to enhance the performance of an S-band fiber laser by using a thulium-doped photonic crystal fiber (PCF). The proposed method is based on amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) suppression provided by the thulium-doped PCF unique geometric structure. The enhanced performance of this filter based PCF is dependent on the short and long cut-off wavelength characteristics that define the fiber transmission window. Realizing the short wavelength cut-off location requires the PCF cladding to be doped with a high index material, which provides a refractive index difference between the core and cladding region. Achieving the long cut-off wavelength necessitates enlarging the size of the air holes surrounding the rare-earth doped core region. The PCF structure is optimized so as to achieve the desired ASE suppression regions of below 0.8 μm and above 1.8 μm. The laser performance is simulated for different host media, namely pure silica, alumino-silicate, and fluoride-based fiber ZBLAN based on this thulium-doped PCF design. The host media spectroscopic details, including lifetime variations and quantum efficiency effect on the lasing emission are also discussed. Information on the filter based PCF design is gathered via a full-vectorial finite element method analysis and specifically a numerical modelling solution for the energy level rate equation using the Runge-Kutta method. Results are analyzed for gain improvement, lasing cavity, laser efficiency and effect of core size diameter variation. Results are compared with conventional thulium-doped fiber and thulium-doped PCF for every single host media. We observe that the ZBLAN host media is the most promising candidate due to its greater quantum efficiency.

Mixed noble gas effect on cut green peppers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raymond, L. V.; Zhang, M.; Karangwa, E.; Chesereka, M. J.

2013-01-01

Increasing attempts at using gas which leads to hydrate formation as a preservative tool in fresh-cut fruits and vegetables have been reported. In this study, changes in some physical and biochemical properties of fresh-cut green peppers under compressed noble gas treatments were examined. Mixed argonkrypton and argon treatments were performed before cold storage at 5°C for 15 days. Mass loss and cell membrane permeability were found to be the lowest in mixed argon-krypton samples. Besides, a lower CO2 concentration and vitamin C loss were detected in gastreated samples compared to untreated samples (control). While the total phenol degradation was moderately reduced, the effect of the treatment on polyphenoloxidase activity was better at the beginning of the storage period. The minimum changes in quality observed in cut peppers resulted from both mixed and gas treatment alone.

Symptoms of distress and posttraumatic stress among South African former political detainees.

PubMed

Kagee, Ashraf

2005-05-01

Considerable debate has centred on the question of traumatisation among individuals who have survived human rights violations in societies that have undergone political conflict. In order to gain an estimate of the extent of long-term traumatisation among political activists who experienced torture and abuse in detention during the apartheid era in South Africa, a sample of 148 survivors of such experiences were recruited in a cross-sectional study and asked to complete the Hopkins Symptom Checklist (HSCL), the Impact of Event Scale (IES), and the Trauma Symptoms section of the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire (HTQ). The proportions of the sample that scored above the clinical cut-points on these measures were calculated. On the HSCL, 14.19% of the sample scored above the cut-point for clinical significance of 44; on the IES, 17.57% scored above the clinical cut-point of 44; and on the HTQ, 37.83% scored above the cut-point of 75. Moreover, the sample's mean scores were significantly higher than the cut-point for clinically significant distress on the HSCL (p < 0.001); significantly lower than the cut-point for severe traumatisation on the IES (p < 0.001); and non-significantly lower than the cut-point for clinically significant traumatisation on the HTQ (p = 0.074). These results are considered in terms of current theoretical debates on the relevance and applicability of posttraumatic stress disorder as a circumscribed nosological entity in developing countries that are in the process of coming to terms with a history of political conflict.

Zero-mode clad waveguides for performing spectroscopy with confined effective observation volumes

DOEpatents

Levene, Michael J.; Korlach, Jonas; Turner, Stephen W.; Craighead, Harold G.; Webb, Watt W.

2005-07-12

The present invention is directed to a method and an apparatus for analysis of an analyte. The method involves providing a zero-mode waveguide which includes a cladding surrounding a core where the cladding is configured to preclude propagation of electromagnetic energy of a frequency less than a cutoff frequency longitudinally through the core of the zero-mode waveguide. The analyte is positioned in the core of the zero-mode waveguide and is then subjected, in the core of the zero-mode waveguide, to activating electromagnetic radiation of a frequency less than the cut-off frequency under conditions effective to permit analysis of the analyte in an effective observation volume which is more compact than if the analysis were carried out in the absence of the zero-mode waveguide.

Waveguides for performing spectroscopy with confined effective observation volumes

DOEpatents

Levene, Michael J.; Korlach, Jonas; Turner, Stephen W.; Craighead, Harold G.; Webb, Watt W.

2006-03-14

The present invention is directed to a method and an apparatus for analysis of an analyte. The method involves providing a zero-mode waveguide which includes a cladding surrounding a core where the cladding is configured to preclude propagation of electromagnetic energy of a frequency less than a cutoff frequency longitudinally through the core of the zero-mode waveguide. The analyte is positioned in the core of the zero-mode waveguide and is then subjected, in the core of the zero-mode waveguide, to activating electromagnetic radiation of a frequency less than the cut-off frequency under conditions effective to permit analysis of the analyte in an effective observation volume which is more compact than if the analysis were carried out in the absence of the zero-mode waveguide.

Diagnostic performance and optimal cut-off scores of the Massachusetts youth screening instrument-second version in a sample of Swiss youths in welfare and juvenile justice institutions.

PubMed

Dölitzsch, Claudia; Leenarts, Laura E W; Schmeck, Klaus; Fegert, Jorg M; Grisso, Thomas; Schmid, Marc

2017-02-08

There is a growing consensus about the importance of mental health screening of youths in welfare and juvenile justice institutions. The Massachusetts Youth Screening Instrument-second version (MAYSI-2) was specifically designed, normed and validated to assist juvenile justice facilities in the United States of America (USA), in identifying youths with potential emotional or behavioral problems. However, it is not known if the USA norm-based cut-off scores can be used in Switzerland. Therefore, the primary purpose of the current study was to estimate the diagnostic performance and optimal cut-off scores of the MAYSI-2 in a sample of Swiss youths in welfare and juvenile justice institutions. As the sample was drawn from the French-, German- and Italian-speaking parts of Switzerland, the three languages were represented in the total sample of the current study and consequently we could estimate the diagnostic performance and the optimal cut-off scores of the MAYSI-2 for the language regions separately. The other main purpose of the current study was to identify potential gender differences in the diagnostic performance and optimal cut-off scores. Participants were 297 boys and 149 girls (mean age = 16.2, SD = 2.5) recruited from 64 youth welfare and juvenile justice institutions (drawn from the French-, German- and Italian-speaking parts of Switzerland). The MAYSI-2 was used to screen for mental health or behavioral problems that could require further evaluation. Psychiatric classification was based on the Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia for School-Age Children, Present and Lifetime version (K-SADS-PL). The MAYSI-2 scores were submitted into Receiver-Operating Characteristic (ROC) analyses to estimate the diagnostic performance and optimal 'caution' cut-off scores of the MAYSI-2. The ROC analyses revealed that nearly all homotypic mappings of MAYSI-2 scales onto (cluster of) psychiatric disorders revealed above chance level accuracy. The optimal 'caution' cut-off scores derived from the ROC curve for predicting (cluster of) psychiatric disorders were, for several MAYSI-2 scales, comparable to the USA norm-based 'caution' cut-off scores. For some MAYSI-2 scales, however, higher optimal 'caution' cut-off scores were found. With adjusted optimal 'caution' cut-off scores, the MAYSI-2 screens potential emotional or behavioral problems well in a sample of Swiss youths in welfare and juvenile justice institutions. However, as for choosing the optimal 'caution' cut off score for the MAYSI-2, both language as well as gender seems to be of importance. The results of this study point to a compelling need to test the diagnostic performance and optimal 'caution' cut-off scores of the MAYSI-2 more elaborately in larger differentiated language samples in Europe.

Coring Sample Acquisition Tool

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Haddad, Nicolas E.; Murray, Saben D.; Walkemeyer, Phillip E.; Badescu, Mircea; Sherrit, Stewart; Bao, Xiaoqi; Kriechbaum, Kristopher L.; Richardson, Megan; Klein, Kerry J.

2012-01-01

A sample acquisition tool (SAT) has been developed that can be used autonomously to sample drill and capture rock cores. The tool is designed to accommodate core transfer using a sample tube to the IMSAH (integrated Mars sample acquisition and handling) SHEC (sample handling, encapsulation, and containerization) without ever touching the pristine core sample in the transfer process.

Sampling tree tops by helicopter...special pole pruner cuts branchlets

Treesearch

John F. Wear; Robert G. Winterfeld

1966-01-01

A new technique for sampling tops of tall Douglas-fir trees by using a special pole pruner from a helicopter has been developed and field-tested. Thee pole pruner cuts and holds a branchlet. Foliage samples collected will be compared by spectral analysis to show the type of aerial imagery that best differentiates healthy trees from those attacked by root rot.

Journals and Justice.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Curzer, Howard J.

1996-01-01

Addresses the process of journal deselection from the point of view of justice and argues that when journal cuts are necessary, libraries should first, reduce all departments to core holdings; second, ask departments with expensive journals for permission to implement an efficiency principle; third, if refused permission, implement an equal…

Evaluating Core Quality for a Mars Sample Return Mission

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Weiss, D. K.; Budney, C.; Shiraishi, L.; Klein, K.

2012-01-01

Sample return missions, including the proposed Mars Sample Return (MSR) mission, propose to collect core samples from scientifically valuable sites on Mars. These core samples would undergo extreme forces during the drilling process, and during the reentry process if the EEV (Earth Entry Vehicle) performed a hard landing on Earth. Because of the foreseen damage to the stratigraphy of the cores, it is important to evaluate each core for rock quality. However, because no core sample return mission has yet been conducted to another planetary body, it remains unclear as to how to assess the cores for rock quality. In this report, we describe the development of a metric designed to quantitatively assess the mechanical quality of any rock cores returned from Mars (or other planetary bodies). We report on the process by which we tested the metric on core samples of Mars analogue materials, and the effectiveness of the core assessment metric (CAM) in assessing rock core quality before and after the cores were subjected to shocking (g forces representative of an EEV landing).

Structure of a CutA1 divalent-cation tolerance protein from Cryptosporidium parvum, the protozoal parasite responsible for cryptosporidiosis

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

Buchko, Garry W.; Robinson, Howard; Abendroth, Jan

Cryptosporidiosis is an infectious disease caused by protozoan parasites from the Cryptosporidium species. Infection is associated with mild to severe diarrhea that usually resolves spontaneously in healthy human adults, but may lead to severe complications in young children and in immunocompromised patients. The genome of Cryptosporidium parvum contains a gene, CUTA_CRYPI, that may play a role in regulating the intracellular concentration of copper, a toxic element if left unchecked. Here we report the crystal structure for this CutA1 protein, Cp-CutA1, is reported at 2.0 Å resolution (4E98). As observed for other CutA1 structures, the 117-residue protein is a trimer withmore » a core ferrodoxin-like fold. Circular dichroism spectroscopy shows little unfolding of Cp-CutA1 up to 353 K. This robustness is corroborated by ¹H-¹⁵N HSQC spectra at 333 K that is characteristic of a folded protein, suggesting NMR spectroscopy may be a useful tool to further probe the function of the CutA1 proteins. While robust, Cp-CutA1 is not as stable as the homologous protein from a hyperthermophile, perhaps due to a wide β-bulgein β2 that protrudes P48 and S49 outside the β-sheet.« less

Structure of a CutA1 divalent-cation tolerance protein from Cryptosporidium parvum, the protozoal parasite responsible for cryptosporidiosis

DOE PAGES

Buchko, Garry W.; Robinson, Howard; Abendroth, Jan; ...

2015-05-01

Cryptosporidiosis is an infectious disease caused by protozoan parasites from the Cryptosporidium species. Infection is associated with mild to severe diarrhea that usually resolves spontaneously in healthy human adults, but may lead to severe complications in young children and in immunocompromised patients. The genome of Cryptosporidium parvum contains a gene, CUTA_CRYPI, that may play a role in regulating the intracellular concentration of copper, a toxic element if left unchecked. Here we report the crystal structure for this CutA1 protein, Cp-CutA1, is reported at 2.0 Å resolution (4E98). As observed for other CutA1 structures, the 117-residue protein is a trimer withmore » a core ferrodoxin-like fold. Circular dichroism spectroscopy shows little unfolding of Cp-CutA1 up to 353 K. This robustness is corroborated by ¹H-¹⁵N HSQC spectra at 333 K that is characteristic of a folded protein, suggesting NMR spectroscopy may be a useful tool to further probe the function of the CutA1 proteins. While robust, Cp-CutA1 is not as stable as the homologous protein from a hyperthermophile, perhaps due to a wide β-bulgein β2 that protrudes P48 and S49 outside the β-sheet.« less

Use of a tissue sectioner to expose internal structures of biological samples for scanning electron microscopy.

PubMed

Brown, M F; Brotzman, H G; Kinden, D A

1976-09-01

A procedure yielding sections of unembedded biological samples for observation by scanning electron microscopy is described. Sections of samples, fixed and hardened in OsO4, were obtained in quantity with a tissue sectioner. Subsequent treatments to osmium-coat cut surfaces were employed prior to critical point drying. The procedure yields cleanly cut surfaces through cells and cytoplasmic organelles which are retained in their normal position. Sections of apple leaf and mouse kidney are illustrated. Sections can be readily cut in a desired plane with less structural damage than is typically encountered by other sectioning or dissection techniques.

Ki67 levels as predictive and prognostic parameters in pretherapeutic breast cancer core biopsies: a translational investigation in the neoadjuvant GeparTrio trial.

PubMed

Denkert, C; Loibl, S; Müller, B M; Eidtmann, H; Schmitt, W D; Eiermann, W; Gerber, B; Tesch, H; Hilfrich, J; Huober, J; Fehm, T; Barinoff, J; Jackisch, C; Prinzler, J; Rüdiger, T; Erbstösser, E; Blohmer, J U; Budczies, J; Mehta, K M; von Minckwitz, G

2013-11-01

The proliferation marker Ki67 has been suggested as a promising cancer biomarker. As Ki67 needs an exact quantification, this marker is a prototype of a new generation of tissue-based biomarkers. In this study, we have systematically evaluated different cut points for Ki67 using three different clinical end points in a large neoadjuvant study cohort. We have evaluated pretherapeutic Ki67 levels by immunohistochemistry in 1166 breast cancer core biopsies from the neoadjuvant GeparTrio trial. We used the standardized cutoff-finder algorithm for three end points [response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (pCR), disease-free (DFS) and overall-survival (OS)]. The analyses were stratified for hormone receptor (HR) and HER2 status by molecular subtype radar diagrams (MSRDs). A wide range of Ki67 cut points between 3%-94% (for pCR), 6%-46% (for DFS) and 4%-58% (for OS) were significant. The three groups of Ki67 ≤ 15% versus 15.1%-35% versus >35% had pCR-rates of 4.2%, 12.8%, and 29.0% (P < 0.0005), this effect was also present in six of eight molecular subtypes. In MSRD, Ki67 was significantly linked to prognosis in uni- and multivariate analysis in the complete cohort and in HR-positive, but not triple-negative tumors. Ki67 is a significant predictive and prognostic marker over a wide range of cut points suggesting that data-derived cut point optimization might not be possible. Ki67 could be used as a continuous marker; in addition, the scientific community could define standardized cut points for Ki67. Our analysis explains the variability observed for Ki67 cut points in previous studies; however, this should not be seen as weakness, but as strength of this marker. MSRDs are an easy new approach for visualization of biomarker effects on outcome across molecular subtypes in breast cancer. The experience with Ki67 could provide important information regarding the development and implementation of other quantitative biomarkers.

Native microflora in fresh-cut processing plants and their potentials of biofilm formation

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Representative food contact and non-food contact surfaces in two mid-sized fresh cut processing facilities were sampled for microbiological analyses post routine daily sanitization. Mesophilic and psychrotrophic bacteria on the sampled surfaces were isolated by plating on non-selective bacterial med...

Paleothermal structure of the Nankai inner accretionary wedge estimated from vitrinite reflectance of cuttings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fukuchi, Rina; Yamaguchi, Asuka; Yamamoto, Yuzuru; Ashi, Juichiro

2017-08-01

The paleothermal structure and tectonic evolution of an accretionary prism is basic information for understanding subduction zone seismogenesis. To evaluate the entire paleotemperature profile of the Integrated Ocean Drilling Program (IODP) Site C0002 located in the off-Kumano region of the Nankai Trough and penetrate the inner accretionary wedge down to 3058.5 m below the seafloor (mbsf), we performed a vitrinite reflectance analysis for cuttings and core samples during IODP expeditions 338 and 348: Nankai Trough seismogenic zone experiment. Although vitrinite reflectance values (Ro) tend to increase with depth, two reversals of these values suggested the existence of thrust fault zones with sufficient displacements to offset the paleothermal structure. The estimated maximum paleotemperatures are 42-70°C at 1200-1300 mbsf, 44-100°C at 1600-2400 mbsf, and 56-115°C at 2600-3000 mbsf, respectively. These temperatures roughly coincide with estimated modern temperatures; however, at a smaller scale, the reconstructed partial paleogeothermal gradient (˜60-150°C/km) recorded at the hanging- and footwall of the presumed thrust fault zone is higher than the modern geothermal gradient (˜30-40°C/km). This high paleogeothermal gradient was possibly obtained prior to subduction, reflecting the large heat flow of the young Philippine Sea Plate.

A novel heterogeneous training sample selection method on space-time adaptive processing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Qiang; Zhang, Yongshun; Guo, Yiduo

2018-04-01

The performance of ground target detection about space-time adaptive processing (STAP) decreases when non-homogeneity of clutter power is caused because of training samples contaminated by target-like signals. In order to solve this problem, a novel nonhomogeneous training sample selection method based on sample similarity is proposed, which converts the training sample selection into a convex optimization problem. Firstly, the existing deficiencies on the sample selection using generalized inner product (GIP) are analyzed. Secondly, the similarities of different training samples are obtained by calculating mean-hausdorff distance so as to reject the contaminated training samples. Thirdly, cell under test (CUT) and the residual training samples are projected into the orthogonal subspace of the target in the CUT, and mean-hausdorff distances between the projected CUT and training samples are calculated. Fourthly, the distances are sorted in order of value and the training samples which have the bigger value are selective preference to realize the reduced-dimension. Finally, simulation results with Mountain-Top data verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.

Evaluating Long-Term Impacts of Soil-Mixing Source-Zone Treatment using Cryogenic Core Collection

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-06-01

to (a) coring equipment freezing downhole, (b) freezing or binding of the core sample in barrel, and ( c ) running out of LN in the vicinity of sampling...encountered due to (a) coring equipment freezing downhole, (b) freezing or binding of the core sample in barrel, and ( c ) running out of LN in the...equipment freezing downhole, (b) freezing or binding of the core sample in barrel, and ( c ) running out of LN in the vicinity of sampling. Downhole

Standardized Curriculum for General Industrial Maintenance Trades.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mississippi State Dept. of Education, Jackson. Office of Vocational, Technical and Adult Education.

Standardized vocational education course titles and core contents for two courses in Mississippi are provided: general industrial maintenance trades I and II. The first course contains the following units: (1) orientation and leadership activities; (2) safety; (3) blueprint reading; (4) oxyacetylene cutting; (5) preventative maintenance; (6)…

Core drill's bit is replaceable without withdrawal of drill stem - A concept

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rushing, F. C.; Simon, A. B.

1970-01-01

Drill bit is divided into several sectors. When collapsed, the outside diameter is forced down the drill stem, when it reaches bottom the sectors are forced outward and form a cutting bit. A dulled bit is retracted by reversal of this procedure.

IndeCut evaluates performance of network motif discovery algorithms.

PubMed

Ansariola, Mitra; Megraw, Molly; Koslicki, David

2018-05-01

Genomic networks represent a complex map of molecular interactions which are descriptive of the biological processes occurring in living cells. Identifying the small over-represented circuitry patterns in these networks helps generate hypotheses about the functional basis of such complex processes. Network motif discovery is a systematic way of achieving this goal. However, a reliable network motif discovery outcome requires generating random background networks which are the result of a uniform and independent graph sampling method. To date, there has been no method to numerically evaluate whether any network motif discovery algorithm performs as intended on realistically sized datasets-thus it was not possible to assess the validity of resulting network motifs. In this work, we present IndeCut, the first method to date that characterizes network motif finding algorithm performance in terms of uniform sampling on realistically sized networks. We demonstrate that it is critical to use IndeCut prior to running any network motif finder for two reasons. First, IndeCut indicates the number of samples needed for a tool to produce an outcome that is both reproducible and accurate. Second, IndeCut allows users to choose the tool that generates samples in the most independent fashion for their network of interest among many available options. The open source software package is available at https://github.com/megrawlab/IndeCut. megrawm@science.oregonstate.edu or david.koslicki@math.oregonstate.edu. Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.

Mechanical Alteration And Contamination Issues In Automated Subsurface Sample Acquisition And Handling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Glass, B. J.; Cannon, H.; Bonaccorsi, R.; Zacny, K.

2006-12-01

The Drilling Automation for Mars Exploration (DAME) project's purpose is to develop and field-test drilling automation and robotics technologies for projected use in missions in the 2011-15 period. DAME includes control of the drilling hardware, and state estimation of both the hardware and the lithography being drilled and the state of the hole. A sister drill was constructed for the Mars Analog Río Tinto Experiment (MARTE) project and demonstrated automated core handling and string changeout in 2005 drilling tests at Rio Tinto, Spain. DAME focused instead on the problem of drill control while actively drilling while not getting stuck. Together, the DAME and MARTE projects demonstrate a fully automated robotic drilling capability, including hands-off drilling, adjustment to different strata and downhole conditions, recovery from drilling faults (binding, choking, etc.), drill string changeouts, core acquisition and removal, and sample handling and conveyance to in-situ instruments. The 2006 top-level goal of DAME drilling in-situ tests was to verify and demonstrate a capability for hands-off automated drilling, at an Arctic Mars-analog site. There were three sets of 2006 test goals, all of which were exceeded during the July 2006 field season. The first was to demonstrate the recognition, while drilling, of at least three of the six known major fault modes for the DAME planetary-prototype drill, and to employ the correct recovery or safing procedure in response. The second set of 2006 goals was to operate for three or more hours autonomously, hands-off. And the third 2006 goal was to exceed 3m depth into the frozen breccia and permafrost with the DAME drill (it had not gone further than 2.2m previously). Five of six faults were detected and corrected, there were 43 hours of hands-off drilling (including a 4 hour sequence with no human presence nearby), and 3.2m was the total depth. And ground truth drilling used small commercial drilling equipment in parallel in order to obtain cores and ice profiles at the drilling site. In the course of DAME drilling automation testing, the drilling-induced temperature gradients and their effects on encountered subsurface permafrost and ice layers were observed while drilling in frozen impact breccia at Haughton Crater. In repeated tests of robotic core removal processing and handling in the MARTE project, including field tests, cross-contamination issues arose between successive cores and samples, and procedures and metrics were developed for minimizing the cross-contamination. The MARTE core processing cross-contamination aspects were tested by analyzing a set of pristine samples (those stratigraphically known) vs. cuttings (loose clays) or artifacts from the robotic drilling (indurated clay layers). MARTE ground truth drilling, in parallel with the automated tests, provided control information on the discontinuity/continuity of the stratigraphic record (i.e., texture, color and structure of loose and consolidated materials).

"Cut-off" effect of antioxidants and/or probes of variable lipophilicity in microheterogeneous media.

PubMed

Aliaga, Carolina; López de Arbina, Amaia; Rezende, Marcos Caroli

2016-09-01

The activities of two hydrophilic (ascorbic acid and Trolox) and two hydrophobic (α-tocopherol and BHT) antioxidants were measured by reaction with a series of 4-alkanoyloxyTEMPO radical probes 1 in buffered (pH 7), aqueous, micellar solutions of reduced Triton-X 100. In all cases, a cut-off effect was observed, in line with previous observations of the same effect for the partitioning of probe series 1 in this medium. These results support an interpretation of the cut-off effect in food emulsions, based on the "amphiphobic" nature of either the antioxidants or probes: competition between two molecular moieties, for the micellar hydrophobic core, tends to expose a reacting fragment differently to a more hydrophilic microenvironment, as the probe or antioxidant hydrophobicity increases. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effect of added phosphate and type of cooking method on physico-chemical and sensory features of cooked lamb loins.

PubMed

Roldán, Mar; Antequera, Teresa; Pérez-Palacios, Trinidad; Ruiz, Jorge

2014-05-01

This study evaluated the effect of brining with phosphates on the physico-chemical and sensory features of sous-vide and roasted cooked lamb. Lamb loins (n=48) were injected with either 10% w/w of distilled water or a solution containing 0.2% or 0.4% (w/v) of a mixture of phosphate salts. After injection, samples were either sous-vide cooked (12h-60°C) or oven roasted (180°C until 73°C of core temp.). Expressible moisture, cooking loss, instrumental color, pH, water holding capacity, instrumental texture and sensory properties were evaluated. Brining with phosphates led to lower cooking loss in both sous-vide and oven roasted samples, but only the former showed significantly higher moisture content. Phosphates increased instrumental hardness and shear force values in sous-vide samples, while this effect was not as evident in roasted ones. Toughness was reduced and juiciness was improved as a consequence of phosphate addition. Overall, injection of a phosphate solution appears as a potential procedure for improving sensory textural features of cooked lamb whole cuts. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Broadband Ce(III)-Sensitized Quantum Cutting in Core-Shell Nanoparticles: Mechanistic Investigation and Photovoltaic Application.

PubMed

Sun, Tianying; Chen, Xian; Jin, Limin; Li, Ho-Wa; Chen, Bing; Fan, Bo; Moine, Bernard; Qiao, Xvsheng; Fan, Xianping; Tsang, Sai-Wing; Yu, Siu Fung; Wang, Feng

2017-10-19

Quantum cutting in lanthanide-doped luminescent materials is promising for applications such as solar cells, mercury-free lamps, and plasma panel displays because of the ability to emit multiple photons for each absorbed higher-energy photon. Herein, a broadband Ce 3+ -sensitized quantum cutting process in Nd 3+ ions is reported though gadolinium sublattice-mediated energy migration in a NaGdF 4 :Ce@NaGdF 4 :Nd@NaYF 4 nanostructure. The Nd 3+ ions show downconversion of one ultraviolet photon through two successive energy transitions, resulting in one visible photon and one near-infrared (NIR) photon. A class of NaGdF 4 :Ce@NaGdF 4 :Nd/Yb@NaYF 4 nanoparticles is further developed to expand the spectrum of quantum cutting in the NIR. When the quantum cutting nanoparticles are incorporated into a hybrid crystalline silicon (c-Si) solar cell, a 1.2-fold increase in short-circuit current and a 1.4-fold increase in power conversion efficiency is demonstrated under short-wavelength ultraviolet irradiation. These insights should enhance our ability to control and utilize spectral downconversion with lanthanide ions.

Structural and functional studies of bioobjects prepared from femoral heads

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kirilova, I. A.; Sharkeev, Yu. P.; Podorozhnaya, V. T.; Popova, K. S.; Uvarkin, P. V.

2015-11-01

Results of examination of physicomechanical characteristics of samples of medial femoral head cuts are presented. The samples of medial femoral head cuts resected in 6 patients with coxarthrosis in primary endoprosthetic replacement of a coxofemoral joint have been tested for micro- and nanohardness. Young's modulus and elemental composition of bone tissue have been investigated. To estimate the architectonics of cancellous tissue of the femoral head, adjacent cuts of the same patient have been analyzed. The porosity of bone tissue was estimated from macroscopic images obtained using macrophotography. The total porosity is calculated as the ratio of the total length of straight line segments overlapping pores to the total length of secants. A three-point bending test of the samples has shown that their strength changed from 0.187 to 1.650 MPa and their elasticity modulus changes from 1.69 to 8.15 MPa. The microhardness of the samples changes in the range 220-265 MPa and the average microhardness of medial femoral head cuts is 240 MPa. The elemental composition of medial femoral head cuts is represented by basic Ca, P, O, Na and Mg elements as well as by Sn, S, Fe, Cr, and C in microamounts. The atomic Ca to P ratio for bone tissue is 1.55. It is revealed that pores of the upper part of the femoral head have a more regular shape and in the lower part they are more elongated along the cut and occupy a larger volume. The lower part of the femoral head has a higher porosity (39 and 33%) than the upper part (34 and 30%). The total porosity of all samples does not exceed 37%.

Structural and functional studies of bioobjects prepared from femoral heads

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

Kirilova, I. A., E-mail: IKirilova@niito.ru; Podorozhnaya, V. T., E-mail: VPodorognaya@niito.ru; Sharkeev, Yu. P., E-mail: sharkeev@ispms.tsc.ru

2015-11-17

Results of examination of physicomechanical characteristics of samples of medial femoral head cuts are presented. The samples of medial femoral head cuts resected in 6 patients with coxarthrosis in primary endoprosthetic replacement of a coxofemoral joint have been tested for micro- and nanohardness. Young’s modulus and elemental composition of bone tissue have been investigated. To estimate the architectonics of cancellous tissue of the femoral head, adjacent cuts of the same patient have been analyzed. The porosity of bone tissue was estimated from macroscopic images obtained using macrophotography. The total porosity is calculated as the ratio of the total length ofmore » straight line segments overlapping pores to the total length of secants. A three-point bending test of the samples has shown that their strength changed from 0.187 to 1.650 MPa and their elasticity modulus changes from 1.69 to 8.15 MPa. The microhardness of the samples changes in the range 220–265 MPa and the average microhardness of medial femoral head cuts is 240 MPa. The elemental composition of medial femoral head cuts is represented by basic Ca, P, O, Na and Mg elements as well as by Sn, S, Fe, Cr, and C in microamounts. The atomic Ca to P ratio for bone tissue is 1.55. It is revealed that pores of the upper part of the femoral head have a more regular shape and in the lower part they are more elongated along the cut and occupy a larger volume. The lower part of the femoral head has a higher porosity (39 and 33%) than the upper part (34 and 30%). The total porosity of all samples does not exceed 37%.« less

Improving semi-automated segmentation by integrating learning with active sampling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huo, Jing; Okada, Kazunori; Brown, Matthew

2012-02-01

Interactive segmentation algorithms such as GrowCut usually require quite a few user interactions to perform well, and have poor repeatability. In this study, we developed a novel technique to boost the performance of the interactive segmentation method GrowCut involving: 1) a novel "focused sampling" approach for supervised learning, as opposed to conventional random sampling; 2) boosting GrowCut using the machine learned results. We applied the proposed technique to the glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) brain tumor segmentation, and evaluated on a dataset of ten cases from a multiple center pharmaceutical drug trial. The results showed that the proposed system has the potential to reduce user interaction while maintaining similar segmentation accuracy.

MCNP-model for the OAEP Thai Research Reactor

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

Gallmeier, F.X.; Tang, J.S.; Primm, R.T. III

An MCNP input was prepared for the Thai Research Reactor, making extensive use of the MCNP geometry`s lattice feature that allows a flexible and easy rearrangement of the core components and the adjustment of the control elements. The geometry was checked for overdefined or undefined zones by two-dimensional plots of cuts through the core configuration with the MCNP geometry plotting capabilities, and by a three-dimensional view of the core configuration with the SABRINA code. Cross sections were defined for a hypothetical core of 67 standard fuel elements and 38 low-enriched uranium fuel elements--all filled with fresh fuel. Three test calculationsmore » were performed with the MCNP4B-code to obtain the multiplication factor for the cases with control elements fully inserted, fully withdrawn, and at a working position.« less

The Victoria West: earliest prepared core technology in the Acheulean at Canteen Kopje and implications for the cognitive evolution of early hominids.

PubMed

Li, Hao; Kuman, Kathleen; Lotter, Matt G; Leader, George M; Gibbon, Ryan J

2017-06-01

Prepared core technology illustrates in-depth planning and the presence of a mental template during the core reduction process. This technology is, therefore, a significant indicator in studying the evolution of abstract thought and the cognitive abilities of hominids. Here, we report on Victoria West cores excavated from the Canteen Kopje site in central South Africa, with a preliminary age estimate of approximately 1 Ma (million years ago) for these cores. Technological analysis shows that the Victoria West cores bear similarities to the 'Volumetric Concept' as defined for the Levallois, a popular and widely distributed prepared core technology from at least 200 ka (thousand years ago). Although these similarities are present, several notable differences also occur that make the Victoria West a unique and distinctive prepared core technology; these are: elongated and convergent core shapes, consistent blow directions for flake removal, a predominance of large side-struck flakes, and the use of these flakes to make Acheulean large cutting tools. This innovative core reduction strategy at Canteen Kopje extends the roots of prepared core technology to the latter part of the Early Acheulean and clearly demonstrates an increase in the cognitive abilities and complexities of hominids in this time period.

Laser machining wood composites

Treesearch

Vladimir Barnekov; Henry A. Huber; Charles W. McMillin

1989-01-01

This practical, nonstatistical experiment using commercial equipment demonstrated that nominal 3/4-inch compositep anelsf or furniture consisting of a particleboard core,h igh density melamine crossbands, and walnut veneer face plies can be cut with a carbon dioxide/airjet-assisted laser to produce surfaces with minimal nonparallelism and char compared to previous...

Static photoelasticity of gallium phosphide crystals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mytsyk, B. G.; Andrushchak, A. S.; Kost', Ya. P.

2012-01-01

The piezo-optic effect (POE) in cubic GaP crystals (symmetry class bar 43 m) is studied in detail by interferometry. The relations for determining the absolute piezo-optic coefficients (POCs) π im or their combinations on a sample of X/45° cut at all allowable geometries of the experiment are recorded. The determination of a specific coefficient π im at different experimental geometries on samples of right cuts and a X/45° cut made it possible to find the π im values with a high accuracy and reliability.

Investigations on the potential of a low power diode pumped Er:YAG laser system for oral surgery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stock, Karl; Wurm, Holger; Hausladen, Florian; Wagner, Sophia; Hibst, Raimund

2015-02-01

Flash lamp pumped Er:YAG-lasers are used in clinical practice for dental applications successfully. As an alternative, several diode pumped Er:YAG laser systems (Pantec Engineering AG) become available, with mean laser power of 2W, 15W, and 30W. The aim of the presented study is to investigate the potential of the 2W Er:YAG laser system for oral surgery. At first an appropriate experimental set-up was realized with a beam delivery and both, a focusing unit for non-contact tissue cutting and a fiber tip for tissue cutting in contact mode. In order to produce reproducible cuts, the samples (porcine gingiva) were moved by a computer controlled translation stage. On the fresh samples cutting depth and quality were determined by light microscopy. Afterwards histological sections were prepared and microscopically analyzed regarding cutting depth and thermal damage zone. The experiments show that low laser power ≤ 2W is sufficient to perform efficient oral soft tissue cutting with cut depth up to 2mm (sample movement 2mm/s). The width of the thermal damage zone can be controlled by the irradiation parameters within a range of about 50μm to 110μm. In general, thermal injury is more pronounced using fiber tips in contact mode compared to the focused laser beam. In conclusion the results reveal that even the low power diode pumped Er:YAG laser is an appropriate tool for oral surgery.

Time-resolved light emission of a, c, and r-cut sapphires shock-compressed to 65 GPa

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Q. C.; Zhou, X. M.

2018-04-01

To investigate light emission and dynamic deformation behaviors, sapphire (single crystal Al2O3) samples with three crystallographic orientations (a, c, and r-cut) were shock-compressed by the planar impact method, with final stress ranges from 47 to 65 GPa. Emission radiance and velocity versus time profiles were simultaneously measured with a fast pyrometer and a Doppler pin system in each experiment. Wave profile results show anisotropic elastic-plastic transitions, which confirm the literature observations. Under final shock stress of about 52 GPa, lower emission intensity is observed in the r-cut sample, in agreement with the previous report in the literature. When final shock stress increases to 57 GPa and 65 GPa, spectral radiance histories of the r-cut show two stages of distinct features. In the first stage, the emission intensity of r-cut is lower than those of the other two, which agrees with the previous report in the literature. In the second stage, spectral radiance of r-cut increases with time at much higher rate and it finally peaks over those of the a and c-cut. These observations (conversion of intensified emission in the r-cut) may indicate activation of a second slip system and formation of shear bands which are discussed with the resolved shear stress calculations for the slip systems in each of the three cuts under shock compression.

[Optimal cut-point of salivary cotinine concentration to discriminate smoking status in the adult population in Barcelona].

PubMed

Martínez-Sánchez, Jose M; Fu, Marcela; Ariza, Carles; López, María J; Saltó, Esteve; Pascual, José A; Schiaffino, Anna; Borràs, Josep M; Peris, Mercè; Agudo, Antonio; Nebot, Manel; Fernández, Esteve

2009-01-01

To assess the optimal cut-point for salivary cotinine concentration to identify smoking status in the adult population of Barcelona. We performed a cross-sectional study of a representative sample (n=1,117) of the adult population (>16 years) in Barcelona (2004-2005). This study gathered information on active and passive smoking by means of a questionnaire and a saliva sample for cotinine determination. We analyzed sensitivity and specificity according to sex, age, smoking status (daily and occasional), and exposure to second-hand smoke at home. ROC curves and the area under the curve were calculated. The prevalence of smokers (daily and occasional) was 27.8% (95% CI: 25.2-30.4%). The optimal cut-point to discriminate smoking status was 9.2 ng/ml (sensitivity=88.7% and specificity=89.0%). The area under the ROC curve was 0.952. The optimal cut-point was 12.2 ng/ml in men and 7.6 ng/ml in women. The optimal cut-point was higher at ages with a greater prevalence of smoking. Daily smokers had a higher cut-point than occasional smokers. The optimal cut-point to discriminate smoking status in the adult population is 9.2 ng/ml, with sensitivities and specificities around 90%. The cut-point was higher in men and in younger people. The cut-point increases with higher prevalence of daily smokers.

Systematic review of the evidence for Trails B cut-off scores in assessing fitness-to-drive.

PubMed

Roy, Mononita; Molnar, Frank

2013-01-01

Fitness-to-drive guidelines recommend employing the Trail Making B Test (a.k.a. Trails B), but do not provide guidance regarding cut-off scores. There is ongoing debate regarding the optimal cut-off score on the Trails B test. The objective of this study was to address this controversy by systematically reviewing the evidence for specific Trails B cut-off scores (e.g., cut-offs in both time to completion and number of errors) with respect to fitness-to-drive. Systematic review of all prospective cohort, retrospective cohort, case-control, correlation, and cross-sectional studies reporting the ability of the Trails B to predict driving safety that were published in English-language, peer-reviewed journals. Forty-seven articles were reviewed. None of the articles justified sample sizes via formal calculations. Cut-off scores reported based on research include: 90 seconds, 133 seconds, 147 seconds, 180 seconds, and < 3 errors. There is support for the previously published Trails B cut-offs of 3 minutes or 3 errors (the '3 or 3 rule'). Major methodological limitations of this body of research were uncovered including (1) lack of justification of sample size leaving studies open to Type II error (i.e., false negative findings), and (2) excessive focus on associations rather than clinically useful cut-off scores.

Laser dissection sampling modes for direct mass spectral analysis [using a hybrid optical microscopy/laser ablation liquid vortex capture/electrospray ionization system

DOE PAGES

Cahill, John F.; Kertesz, Vilmos; Van Berkel, Gary J.

2016-02-01

Here, laser microdissection coupled directly with mass spectrometry provides the capability of on-line analysis of substrates with high spatial resolution, high collection efficiency, and freedom on shape and size of the sampling area. Establishing the merits and capabilities of the different sampling modes that the system provides is necessary in order to select the best sampling mode for characterizing analytically challenging samples. The capabilities of laser ablation spot sampling, laser ablation raster sampling, and laser 'cut and drop' sampling modes of a hybrid optical microscopy/laser ablation liquid vortex capture electrospray ionization mass spectrometry system were compared for the analysis ofmore » single cells and tissue. Single Chlamydomonas reinhardtii cells were monitored for their monogalactosyldiacylglycerol (MGDG) and diacylglyceryltrimethylhomo-Ser (DGTS) lipid content using the laser spot sampling mode, which was capable of ablating individual cells (4-15 m) even when agglomerated together. Turbid Allium Cepa cells (150 m) having unique shapes difficult to precisely measure using the other sampling modes could be ablated in their entirety using laser raster sampling. Intact microdissections of specific regions of a cocaine-dosed mouse brain tissue were compared using laser 'cut and drop' sampling. Since in laser 'cut and drop' sampling whole and otherwise unmodified sections are captured into the probe, 100% collection efficiencies were achieved. Laser ablation spot sampling has the highest spatial resolution of any sampling mode, while laser ablation raster sampling has the highest sampling area adaptability of the sampling modes. In conclusion, laser ablation spot sampling has the highest spatial resolution of any sampling mode, useful in this case for the analysis of single cells. Laser ablation raster sampling was best for sampling regions with unique shapes that are difficult to measure using other sampling modes. Laser 'cut and drop' sampling can be used for cases where the highest sensitivity is needed, for example, monitoring drugs present in trace amounts in tissue.« less

Laser dissection sampling modes for direct mass spectral analysis [using a hybrid optical microscopy/laser ablation liquid vortex capture/electrospray ionization system

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

Cahill, John F.; Kertesz, Vilmos; Van Berkel, Gary J.

Here, laser microdissection coupled directly with mass spectrometry provides the capability of on-line analysis of substrates with high spatial resolution, high collection efficiency, and freedom on shape and size of the sampling area. Establishing the merits and capabilities of the different sampling modes that the system provides is necessary in order to select the best sampling mode for characterizing analytically challenging samples. The capabilities of laser ablation spot sampling, laser ablation raster sampling, and laser 'cut and drop' sampling modes of a hybrid optical microscopy/laser ablation liquid vortex capture electrospray ionization mass spectrometry system were compared for the analysis ofmore » single cells and tissue. Single Chlamydomonas reinhardtii cells were monitored for their monogalactosyldiacylglycerol (MGDG) and diacylglyceryltrimethylhomo-Ser (DGTS) lipid content using the laser spot sampling mode, which was capable of ablating individual cells (4-15 m) even when agglomerated together. Turbid Allium Cepa cells (150 m) having unique shapes difficult to precisely measure using the other sampling modes could be ablated in their entirety using laser raster sampling. Intact microdissections of specific regions of a cocaine-dosed mouse brain tissue were compared using laser 'cut and drop' sampling. Since in laser 'cut and drop' sampling whole and otherwise unmodified sections are captured into the probe, 100% collection efficiencies were achieved. Laser ablation spot sampling has the highest spatial resolution of any sampling mode, while laser ablation raster sampling has the highest sampling area adaptability of the sampling modes. In conclusion, laser ablation spot sampling has the highest spatial resolution of any sampling mode, useful in this case for the analysis of single cells. Laser ablation raster sampling was best for sampling regions with unique shapes that are difficult to measure using other sampling modes. Laser 'cut and drop' sampling can be used for cases where the highest sensitivity is needed, for example, monitoring drugs present in trace amounts in tissue.« less

The use of water-jetting technology in prostheses revision surgery-first results of parameter studies on bone and bone cement.

PubMed

Honl, M; Rentzsch, R; Müller, G; Brandt, C; Bluhm, A; Hille, E; Louis, H; Morlock, M

2000-01-01

Water-jet cutting techniques have been used in industrial applications for many different materials. Recently these techniques have been developed into a revolutionary cutting tool for soft tissues in visceral surgery. The present study investigates the usage of this cutting technology for the revision surgery of endoprostheses. In the first part of the study, samples of bovine bone and acrylic bone cement (PMMA) were cut using an industrial jet cutting device with pure water. Below 400 bar, only PMMA was cut; above 400 bar, bone was also cut, but only pressures above 800 bar resulted in clinically useful rates of material removal (cut depth 2. 4 mm at 10 mm/min traverse speed). In the second part of the study, the effect of adding biocompatible abrasives to the water in order to reduce the required pressure was investigated, resulting in a significantly higher removal of material. At 600 bar, PMMA was cut 5. 2 mm deep with plain water and 15.2 mm deep with added abrasives. The quality of the cuts was increased by the abrasive. Though there was no clear selectivity between bone and PMMA any more, the rate of material removal at similar pressures was significantly higher for PMMA than for bone (600 bar: 1.6 mm cut depth for bone samples, 15.2 mm for PMMA). The measured cut depths with either method were not influenced by a change of the cutting direction with respect to the main direction of the osteons in the bone. However, a reduction of the jet surface angle (90 degrees to 23 degrees ) resulted for bone in a significantly lower cut depth at 600 bar (plain water: 0.62 mm vs. 0.06 mm; abrasive: 1.61 mm vs. 0.60 mm). The laboratory experiments indicate that abrasive water jets may be suitable for cutting biomaterials like bone and bone cement. Copyright 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Portable propellant cutting assembly, and method of cutting propellant with assembly

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sharp, Roger A. (Inventor); Hoskins, Shawn W. (Inventor); Payne, Brett D. (Inventor)

2002-01-01

A propellant cutting assembly and method of using the assembly to cut samples of solid propellant in a repeatable and consistent manner is disclosed. The cutting assembly utilizes two parallel extension beams which are shorter than the diameter of a central bore of an annular solid propellant grain and can be loaded into the central bore. The assembly is equipped with retaining heads at its respective ends and an adjustment mechanism to position and wedge the assembly within the central bore. One end of the assembly is equipped with a cutting blade apparatus which can be extended beyond the end of the extension beams to cut into the solid propellant.

Ice cores and calcite precipitates from alpine ice caves as useful proxies in paleoclimate reconstructions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Colucci, Renato R.; Barbante, Carlo; Bertò, Michele; Dreossi, Giuliano; Festi, Daniela; Forte, Emanuele; Gabrieli, Jacopo; Guglielmin, Mauro; Lenaz, Davide; Luetscher, Marc; Maggi, Valter; Princivalle, Francesco; Schwikowski, Margit; Stenni, Barbara; Žebre, Manja

2017-04-01

In the last years a growing set of research campaigns have been undertaken in the European southeastern Alps. The aim of such interest is mainly due to the peculiar climatic conditions of this area, allowing the existence of periglacial and glacial evidence at the lowest altitude in the Alps. The reason for such "anomaly" is likely ascribable to very high mean annual precipitation and local topoclimatic amplifications. In the frame of this research, in the fall 2013 a 7.8 m long ice-core has been extracted from a permanent cave ice deposit located in the area of Mt. Canin (2,587 masl) in the Julian Alps. The ice-core has been cut and analysed in terms of: a) oxygen and hydrogen isotope composition; b); black carbon and dust concentrations; c) water conductivity; d) mineralogical analyses via X-ray powder diffraction. In the fall 2016, in the same area, a set of 1.0 m long horizontal ice cores have been extracted in another ice cave deposit, intercepting a preserved layer of coarse cryogenic cave carbonates (CCCcoarse). Such original finding represents the first alpine evidence of in situ CCCcoarse and the first occurrence from the southern side of the Alps. A unique opportunity to better understand the processes associated with the formation of CCCcoarse and the well-preserved status of samples allow planning, besides U/Th datings, several different analyses which may be associated with the precipitation of CCC. Subglacial calcite crusts, widespread in the area, represents a further proxy able to help understanding the evolution of climate during the holocene in this alpine sector. In the light of accelerated climate change we discuss here the potential of this still untapped and fragile cryospheric archives for paleoclimatic reconstructions in high elevated areas of the Alps.

A mineralogical petrographic and geochemical study of samples from wells in the geothermal field of Milos Island (Greece)

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

Liakopoulos, A.

1991-01-01

This paper presents a study of hydrothermal alteration on Milos Island, Greece. Examination of cores and cuttings from the two drill sites, obtained from a depth of about 1100 m in Milos geothermal field, showed that the hydrothermal minerals occurring in the rock include: K-feldspar, albite, chlorite, talc, diopside, epidote, muscovite, tremolite, kaolinite, montmorillonite, alunite, anhydrite, gypsum, calcite, and opaque minerals. The chemical composition of the minerals (104 analyses) was determined with Electron Probe Microanalysis. The composition of the hydrothermal fluid was determined and correlated with the mineralogy. Isotopic ratios of C and O for one calcite sample taken frommore » 341 m depth were determined and used for geochemical calculations. A number of reactions feasible at the P-T conditions of the geothermal field are given to establish the chemical evolution of the hydrothermal fluid. The distribution of the hydrothermal minerals indicates the dilution of the K-, Na- Cl-rich hydrothermal fluid of the deep reservoir by a Ca-, Mg-rich cold water at a shallower level.« less

Helical-Tip Needle for Transthoracic Percutaneous Image-Guided Biopsy of Lung Tumors: Results of a Pilot Prospective Comparative Study with a Standard Tru-Cut Needle

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

Veltri, Andrea, E-mail: andrea.veltri@unito.it; Busso, Marco; Sardo, Diego

PurposeTo prospectively evaluate feasibility and diagnostic performance of the 14-gauge helical-tip (Spirotome™, Cook{sup ®} Medical, Bloomington, USA) needle in transthoracic needle biopsy (TTNB) of lung lesions, compared to a conventional 18-gauge Tru-Cut needle.Materials and MethodsStudy was institutional review board approved, with informed consent obtained. Data from synchronous Spirotome and Tru-Cut image-guided TTNB of 20 consecutive patients with malignant peripheral lung tumors larger than 3 cm were enrolled for pathologic characterization and mutational analysis. Samples obtained with Spirotome and Tru-Cut needle were compared for fragmentation, length, weight, morphologic and immunohistochemistry typifying, tumor cellularity (TC) and DNA concentration.ResultsThe technical success rate for TTNBmore » with Spirotome was 100%, and no major complications occurred. Less fragmentation (mean 2 vs. 3 fragments, P = .418), greater weight (mean 13 vs. 8.5 mg, P = .027) and lower length (mean 10.2 vs. 12.6 mm, P = .174) were observed with Spirotome compared to Tru-Cut needle. Accuracy of Spirotome and Tru-Cut needle in defining cancer histotype was similar (90%). Absolute and relative TC (mean 42 vs. 38, 124 vs. 108/10HPF), and DNA concentration (mean 49.6 vs. 39.0 ng/μl) were higher with Spirotome compared to Tru-Cut needle, with no statistical significance (P = .787 and P = .140, respectively).Conclusions Percutaneous 14-gauge Spirotome TTNB of selected lesions is feasible and accurate. It provides adequate samples for diagnosis, comparable to 18-gauge Tru-Cut needle, with a higher amount of tumor tissue (weight, TC, DNA concentration) even in shorter samples.« less

Influence of item distribution pattern and abundance on efficiency of benthic core sampling

USGS Publications Warehouse

Behney, Adam C.; O'Shaughnessy, Ryan; Eichholz, Michael W.; Stafford, Joshua D.

2014-01-01

ore sampling is a commonly used method to estimate benthic item density, but little information exists about factors influencing the accuracy and time-efficiency of this method. We simulated core sampling in a Geographic Information System framework by generating points (benthic items) and polygons (core samplers) to assess how sample size (number of core samples), core sampler size (cm2), distribution of benthic items, and item density affected the bias and precision of estimates of density, the detection probability of items, and the time-costs. When items were distributed randomly versus clumped, bias decreased and precision increased with increasing sample size and increased slightly with increasing core sampler size. Bias and precision were only affected by benthic item density at very low values (500–1,000 items/m2). Detection probability (the probability of capturing ≥ 1 item in a core sample if it is available for sampling) was substantially greater when items were distributed randomly as opposed to clumped. Taking more small diameter core samples was always more time-efficient than taking fewer large diameter samples. We are unable to present a single, optimal sample size, but provide information for researchers and managers to derive optimal sample sizes dependent on their research goals and environmental conditions.

Consumer evaluation of palatability characteristics of a beef value-added cut compared to common retail cuts.

PubMed

Lepper-Blilie, A N; Berg, E P; Germolus, A J; Buchanan, D S; Berg, P T

2014-01-01

The objectives of this study were to educate consumers about value-added beef cuts and evaluate their palatability responses of a value cut and three traditional cuts. Three hundred and twenty-two individuals participated in the beef value cut education seminar series presented by trained beef industry educators. Seminar participants evaluated tenderness, juiciness, flavor, and overall like of four samples, bottom round, top sirloin, ribeye, and a value cut (Delmonico or Denver), on a 9-point scale. The ribeye and the value cut were found to be similar in all four attributes and differed from the top sirloin and bottom round. Correlations and regression analysis found that flavor was the largest influencing factor for overall like for the ribeye, value cut, and top sirloin. The value cut is comparable to the ribeye and can be a less expensive replacement. © 2013.

Occupational heat strain in a hot underground metal mine.

PubMed

Lutz, Eric A; Reed, Rustin J; Turner, Dylan; Littau, Sally R

2014-04-01

In a hot underground metal mine, this study evaluated the relationship between job task, physical body type, work shift, and heat strain. Thirty-one miners were evaluated during 98 shifts while performing deep shaft-sinking tasks. Continuous core body temperature, heart rate, pre- and postshift urine specific gravity (USG), and body mass index were measured. Cutting and welding tasks were associated with significantly (P < 0.05) increased core body temperature, maximum heart rate, and increased postshift urine specific gravity. Miners in the obese level II and III body mass index categories, as well as those working night shift, had lower core body temperatures (P < 0.05). This study confirms that job task, body type, and shift are risk factors for heat strain.

Caesarean section: an historical riddle.

PubMed

Majumdar, S K

2001-01-01

Etymologically, the word 'Caesar' originates from the Latin word 'Caedaere' meaning - 'to cut'. So cutting remains the core point, but little is known about the real origin of the history of Caesarean Section. There is evidence that, the ancient Hindus excelled in surgery and many operations were performed, including caesarean section. This operation was mentioned several times in the Mishnah of Rabbi Judah, the first large commentary on the Hebrew Bible. There are also several mythological anecdotes in Hindu, Buddhist and Greek mythologies. The myth of caesarean section did not even escape the keen eyes of William Skakespeare. The landmarks, treatises and the advancement in this operative procedure are presented in this article.

Lightweight Low Force Rotary Percussive Coring Tool for Planetary Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hironaka, Ross; Stanley, Scott

2010-01-01

A prototype low-force rotary-percussive rock coring tool for use in acquiring samples for geological surveys in future planetary missions was developed. The coring tool could eventually enable a lightweight robotic system to operate from a relatively small (less than 200 kg) mobile or fixed platform to acquire and cache Mars or other planetary rock samples for eventual return to Earth for analysis. To gain insight needed to design an integrated coring tool, the coring ability of commercially available coring bits was evaluated for effectiveness of varying key parameters: weight-on-bit, rotation speed, percussive rate and force. Trade studies were performed for different methods of breaking a core at its base and for retaining the core in a sleeve to facilitate sample transfer. This led to a custom coring tool design which incorporated coring, core breakage, core retention, and core extraction functions. The coring tool was tested on several types of rock and demonstrated the overall feasibility of this approach for robotic rock sample acquisition.

The initial masses of the red supergiant progenitors to Type II supernovae

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Davies, Ben; Beasor, Emma R.

2018-02-01

There are a growing number of nearby supernovae (SNe) for which the progenitor star is detected in archival pre-explosion imaging. From these images it is possible to measure the progenitor's brightness a few years before explosion, and ultimately estimate its initial mass. Previous work has shown that II-P and II-L SNe have red supergiant (RSG) progenitors, and that the range of initial masses for these progenitors seems to be limited to ≲ 17 M⊙. This is in contrast with the cut-off of 25-30 M⊙ predicted by evolutionary models, a result that is termed the `red supergiant problem'. Here we investigate one particular source of systematic error present in converting pre-explosion photometry into an initial mass, which of the bolometric correction (BC) used to convert a single-band flux into a bolometric luminosity. We show, using star clusters, that RSGs evolve to later spectral types as they approach SN, which in turn causes the BC to become larger. Failure to account for this results in a systematic underestimate of a star's luminosity, and hence its initial mass. Using our empirically motivated BCs we reappraise the II-P and II-L SNe that have their progenitors detected in pre-explosion imaging. Fitting an initial mass function to these updated masses results in an increased upper mass cut-off of Mhi = 19.0^{+2.5}_{-1.3} M⊙, with a 95 per cent upper confidence limit of <27 M⊙. Accounting for finite sample size effects and systematic uncertainties in the mass-luminosity relationship raises the cut-off to Mhi = 25 M⊙ (<33 M⊙, 95 per cent confidence). We therefore conclude that there is currently no strong evidence for `missing' high-mass progenitors to core-collapse SNe.

Examination of core samples from the Mount Elbert Gas Hydrate Stratigraphic Test Well, Alaska North Slope: Effects of retrieval and preservation

USGS Publications Warehouse

Kneafsey, T.J.; Lu, H.; Winters, W.; Boswell, R.; Hunter, R.; Collett, T.S.

2011-01-01

Collecting and preserving undamaged core samples containing gas hydrates from depth is difficult because of the pressure and temperature changes encountered upon retrieval. Hydrate-bearing core samples were collected at the BPXA-DOE-USGS Mount Elbert Gas Hydrate Stratigraphic Test Well in February 2007. Coring was performed while using a custom oil-based drilling mud, and the cores were retrieved by a wireline. The samples were characterized and subsampled at the surface under ambient winter arctic conditions. Samples thought to be hydrate bearing were preserved either by immersion in liquid nitrogen (LN), or by storage under methane pressure at ambient arctic conditions, and later depressurized and immersed in LN. Eleven core samples from hydrate-bearing zones were scanned using x-ray computed tomography to examine core structure and homogeneity. Features observed include radial fractures, spalling-type fractures, and reduced density near the periphery. These features were induced during sample collection, handling, and preservation. Isotopic analysis of the methane from hydrate in an initially LN-preserved core and a pressure-preserved core indicate that secondary hydrate formation occurred throughout the pressurized core, whereas none occurred in the LN-preserved core, however no hydrate was found near the periphery of the LN-preserved core. To replicate some aspects of the preservation methods, natural and laboratory-made saturated porous media samples were frozen in a variety of ways, with radial fractures observed in some LN-frozen sands, and needle-like ice crystals forming in slowly frozen clay-rich sediments. Suggestions for hydrate-bearing core preservation are presented.

Water column and bed-sediment core samples collected from Brownlee Reservoir near Oxbow, Oregon, 2012

USGS Publications Warehouse

Fosness, Ryan L.; Naymik, Jesse; Hopkins, Candice B.; DeWild, John F.

2013-01-01

The U.S. Geological Survey, in cooperation with Idaho Power Company, collected water-column and bed-sediment core samples from eight sites in Brownlee Reservoir near Oxbow, Oregon, during May 5–7, 2012. Water-column and bed-sediment core samples were collected at each of the eight sites and analyzed for total mercury and methylmercury. Additional bed-sediment core samples, collected from three of the eight sites, were analyzed for pesticides and other organic compounds, trace metals, and physical characteristics, such as particle size. Total mercury and methylmercury were detected in each of the water column and bed-sediment core samples. Only 17 of the 417 unique pesticide and organic compounds were detected in bed-sediment core samples. Concentrations of most organic wastewater compounds detected in bed sediment were less than the reporting level. Trace metals detected were greater than the reporting level in all the bed-sediment core samples submitted for analysis. The particle size distribution of bed-sediment core samples was predominantly clay mixed with silt.

Impact of grey zone sample testing by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in enhancing blood safety: Experience at a tertiary care hospital in North India.

PubMed

Solanki, Archana; Singh, Abhay; Chaudhary, Rajendra

2016-01-01

Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) used for screening blood donors for transfusion transmitted infections (TTIs) can sometimes fail to detect blood donors who are recently infected or possessing the low strength of pathogen. Estimation of a grey zone in ELISA testing and repeat testing of grey zone samples can further help in reducing the risks of TTI in countries where nucleic acid amplification testing for TTIs is not feasible. Grey zone samples with optical density (OD) lying between cut-off OD and 10% below the cut-off OD (cut-off OD × 0.9) were identified during routine ELISA testing. On performing repeat ELISA testing on grey zone samples in duplicate, the samples showing both OD value below grey zone were marked nonreactive, and samples showing one or both OD value in the grey zone were marked indeterminate. The samples on repeat testing showing one or both OD above cut-off value were marked positive. About 119 samples (77 for hepatitis B virus [HBV], 23 for human immunodeficiency virus [HIV], and 19 for hepatitis C virus [HCV]) were found to be in grey zone. On repeat testing of these samples in duplicate, 70 (58.8%) samples (45 for HBV, 12 for HIV, and 13 for HCV) were found to be reactive. Six (5%) samples (four for HBV, one for HIV, and one for HCV) were found to be indeterminate. Seventy donors initially screened negative, were found out to be potentially infectious on repeat grey zone testing. Thus, estimation of grey zone samples with repeat testing can further enhance the safety of blood transfusion.

Browning control of fresh-cut lettuce by phytoncide treatment.

PubMed

Kim, Do-Hee; Kim, Han-Bit; Chung, Hun-Sik; Moon, Kwang-Deog

2014-09-15

Phytoncide essential oil derived from pine leaves was applied for the control of enzymatic browning of fresh-cut lettuce. Changes in the browning characteristics of cut lettuce treated with phytoncide in an water or ethanol solution (1%, v/v) at 10°C were investigated for 12days at 4°C. Other samples dipped in distilled water or 95% ethanol were used as the controls. The samples treated with phytoncide in an ethanol solution showed significantly higher L* values and lower a* values, ΔE values, browning index, phenolic compounds, and enzyme activities (PPO, POD, PAL) related to browning. The samples dipped in distilled water showed the opposite tendency. On the basis of changes in the browning characteristics, anti-browning effects of each treatment, phytoncide in an ethanol solution was the most effective treatment applied. These results suggest that phytoncide treatment could be used as an effective method for controlling enzymatic browning in fresh-cut lettuce. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Report on drilling activities in the Thar Desert, Sindh Province, Pakistan

USGS Publications Warehouse

Thomas, Roger E.; Fassett, James E.; Warwick, Peter D.; Wardlaw, Bruce R.; Shah, Abas A.; Khan, Shafique Ahmed; Tagar, Mohammad A.; Memon, Abdul R.; Lashari, Ghulam S.; Khan, Zameer M.; Khan, Muhammad D.; Chandio, Altaf H.; Anwar, Mohammad; Nizamani, Mohammad A.; Ahmad, Mujeeb; Ur-Raman, Mehtab-

1994-01-01

Coal test drilling in the Thar Desert of southeast Pakistan was conducted as part of the Coal Exploration and Assessment Program (COALREAP) involving the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the Geological Survey of Pakistan (GSP), and the U.S. Geological Survey. Drilling was performed in the Thar Desert, or Great Indian Desert, approximately 175 km northeast of Karachi. Twenty five exploration holes were drilled between January 1992 and May 1994. Drill core was described by geologists of the Pakistan Geological Survey and coal samples were analyzed in both the United States and Pakistan. U.S. Geological Survey geologists offered technical assistance, trained GSP personnel, and managed the drilling program according to an agreement with USAID under the Energy Planning and Development Project.Drilling was performed by the Geological Survey of Pakistan. During drilling, the first 50 m was rotary drilled and cuttings collected every 2 m for examination. Average depth for all coal beds is 214 m with a total average thickness of 10 m of coal per drill hole. Core was described, boxed, and stored at the Geological Survey of Pakistan core library at Sonda, near Hyderabad. Approximately 6,412 m of Paleocene to Eocene rock was drilled of which 3,990 m was cored and 1,113 m was rotary drilled.There was 1,309 m of core loss. Geophysical logging of each drill hole permitted detailed thicknesses of coal to be determined. Analysis of the coal indicated a rank of lignite B with an as-received heating value over 5,000 Btu.This report presents data collected at the drill sites and should be used inconjunction with the published interpretive report (Fassett and Durrani, 1994) and the USGS Open-File Report 94-167, which contains analysis of the coal samples. Tables provide quick reference to numeric data and results. Detailed index maps and specific data, for each drill hole are included. This report covers drill holes TP-5 to TP-31. Drill holes TP-16, 17, 21, 26, 27, and 29 were planned but not drilled due to time restraints and (or) a determination that those drill sites were not needed to effectively delineate the coal deposit. The basic data for drill holes TP-1 through TP-4 are included in SanFilipo and others, 1994 however, some data for these drill holes are included for consistency.

Optimal Design of Magnetic ComponentsinPlasma Cutting Power Supply

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiang, J. F.; Zhu, B. R.; Zhao, W. N.; Yang, X. J.; Tang, H. J.

2017-10-01

Phase-shifted transformer and DC reactor are usually needed in chopper plasma cutting power supply. Because of high power rate, the loss of magnetic components may reach to several kilowatts, which seriously affects the conversion efficiency. Therefore, it is necessary to research and design low loss magnetic components by means of efficient magnetic materials and optimal design methods. The main task in this paper is to compare the core loss of different magnetic material, to analyze the influence of transformer structure, winding arrangement and wire structure on the characteristics of magnetic component. Then another task is to select suitable magnetic material, structure and wire in order to reduce the loss and volume of magnetic components. Based on the above outcome, the optimization design process of transformer and dc reactor are proposed in chopper plasma cutting power supply with a lot of solutions. These solutions are analyzed and compared before the determination of the optimal solution in order to reduce the volume and power loss of the two magnetic components and improve the conversion efficiency of plasma cutting power supply.

Specific Microbial Communities Associate with the Rhizosphere of Welwitschia mirabilis, a Living Fossil.

PubMed

Valverde, Angel; De Maayer, Pieter; Oberholster, Tanzelle; Henschel, Joh; Louw, Michele K; Cowan, Don

2016-01-01

Welwitschia mirabilis is an ancient and rare plant distributed along the western coast of Namibia and Angola. Several aspects of Welwitschia biology and ecology have been investigated, but very little is known about the microbial communities associated with this plant. This study reports on the bacterial and fungal communities inhabiting the rhizosphere of W. mirabilis and the surrounding bulk soil. Rhizosphere communities were dominated by sequences of Alphaproteobacteria and Euromycetes, while Actinobacteria, Alphaproteobacteria, and fungi of the class Dothideomycetes jointly dominated bulk soil communities. Although microbial communities within the rhizosphere and soil samples were highly variable, very few "species" (OTUs defined at a 97% identity cut-off) were shared between these two environments. There was a small 'core' rhizosphere bacterial community (formed by Nitratireductor, Steroidobacter, Pseudonocardia and three Phylobacteriaceae) that together with Rhizophagus, an arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus, and other putative plant growth-promoting microbes may interact synergistically to promote Welwitschia growth.

NUCLEAR REACTOR CORE DESIGN

DOEpatents

Mahlmeister, J.E.; Peck, W.S.; Haberer, W.V.; Williams, A.C.

1960-03-22

An improved core design for a sodium-cooled, graphitemoderated nuclear reactor is described. The improved reactor core comprises a number of blocks of moderator material, each block being in the shape of a regular prism. A number of channels, extending the length of each block, are disposed around the periphery. When several blocks are placed in contact to form the reactor core, the channels in adjacent blocks correspond with each other to form closed conduits extending the length of the core. Fuel element clusters are disposed in these closed conduits, and liquid coolant is forced through the annulus between the fuel cluster and the inner surface of the conduit. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the moderator blocks are in the form of hexagonal prisms with longitudinal channels cut into the corners of the hexagon. The main advantage of an "edge-loaded" moderator block is that fewer thermal neutrons are absorbed by the moderator cladding, as compared with a conventional centrally loaded moderator block.

Characterizing Dust from Cutting Corian®, a Solid-Surface Composite Material, in a Laboratory Testing System.

PubMed

Qi, Chaolong; Echt, Alan; Murata, Taichi K

2016-06-01

We conducted a laboratory test to characterize dust from cutting Corian(®), a solid-surface composite material, with a circular saw. Air samples were collected using filters and direct-reading instruments in an automatic laboratory testing system. The average mass concentrations of the total and respirable dusts from the filter samples were 4.78±0.01 and 1.52±0.01mg cm(-3), respectively, suggesting about 31.8% mass of the airborne dust from cutting Corian(®) is respirable. Analysis of the metal elements on the filter samples reveals that aluminum hydroxide is likely the dominant component of the airborne dust from cutting Corian(®), with the total airborne and respirable dusts containing 86.0±6.6 and 82.2±4.1% aluminum hydroxide, respectively. The results from the direct-reading instruments confirm that the airborne dust generated from cutting Corian(®) were mainly from the cutting process with very few particles released from the running circular saw alone. The number-based size distribution of the dusts from cutting Corian(®) had a peak for fine particles at 1.05 µm with an average total concentration of 871.9 particles cm(-3), and another peak for ultrafine particles at 11.8nm with an average total concentration of 1.19×10(6) particles cm(-3) The small size and high concentration of the ultrafine particles suggest additional investigation is needed to study their chemical composition and possible contribution to pulmonary effect. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the British Occupational Hygiene Society 2016.

Characterizing Dust from Cutting Corian®, a Solid-Surface Composite Material, in a Laboratory Testing System

PubMed Central

Qi, Chaolong; Echt, Alan; Murata, Taichi K

2016-01-01

We conducted a laboratory test to characterize dust from cutting Corian®, a solid-surface composite material, with a circular saw. Air samples were collected using filters and direct-reading instruments in an automatic laboratory testing system. The average mass concentrations of the total and respirable dusts from the filter samples were 4.78±0.01 and 1.52±0.01 mg cm−3, respectively, suggesting about 31.8% mass of the airborne dust from cutting Corian® is respirable. Analysis of the metal elements on the filter samples reveals that aluminum hydroxide is likely the dominant component of the airborne dust from cutting Corian®, with the total airborne and respirable dusts containing 86.0%±6.6% and 82.2%±4.1% aluminum hydroxide, respectively. The results from the direct-reading instruments confirm that the airborne dust generated from cutting Corian® were mainly from the cutting process with very few particles released from the running circular saw alone. The number-based size distribution of the dusts from cutting Corian® had a peak for fine particles at 1.05 µm with an average total concentration of 871.9 particles cm−3, and another peak for ultrafine particles at 11.8 nm with an average total concentration of 1.19×106 particles cm−3. The small size and high concentration of the ultrafine particles suggest additional investigation is needed to study their chemical composition and possible contribution to pulmonary effect. PMID:26872962

Challenges of Video-Conferencing Teaching and Effective Teaching Methods

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fitzgibbon, Paula

2003-01-01

Higher educational institutions are increasingly called upon to make cost-cutting decisions in the types of courses offered, the maximum number of students allowed per section and course delivery modes. Lever (1992) says that this "doing more with less" is one of the core challenges facing community colleges and universities. All of us…

Publications - GMC 134 | Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical

Science.gov Websites

and Facilities Staff Seismic and Well Data Data Reports Contact Us Frequently Asked Questions Ask a Oil Corporation Moquawkie #1 well Authors: Edison, T.A. Publication Date: 1989 Publisher: Alaska , Vitrinite reflectance data of cuttings and core from the Mobil Oil Corporation Moquawkie #1 well: Alaska

Socialization of Self-Regulation: Continuity and Discontinuity Over Age and Context.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brownell, Celia A.; Etheridge, Wendy; Hungerford, Anne; Kelley, Sue

Self-regulation is a major developmental accomplishment that begins in infancy and continues throughout childhood. This study focused on early socialization of self-regulation, and examined whether there was a common core of self-regulation in young children cutting across contexts and age, and whether the same maternal behaviors operate similarly…

29 CFR 1926.104 - Safety belts, lifelines, and lanyards.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... be subjected to cutting or abrasion, shall be a minimum of 7/8-inch wire core manila rope. For all other lifeline applications, a minimum of 3/4-inch manila or equivalent, with a minimum breaking... nominal breaking strength of 5,400 pounds. (e) All safety belt and lanyard hardware shall be drop forged...

29 CFR 1926.104 - Safety belts, lifelines, and lanyards.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... be subjected to cutting or abrasion, shall be a minimum of 7/8-inch wire core manila rope. For all other lifeline applications, a minimum of 3/4-inch manila or equivalent, with a minimum breaking... nominal breaking strength of 5,400 pounds. (e) All safety belt and lanyard hardware shall be drop forged...

29 CFR 1926.104 - Safety belts, lifelines, and lanyards.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... be subjected to cutting or abrasion, shall be a minimum of 7/8-inch wire core manila rope. For all other lifeline applications, a minimum of 3/4-inch manila or equivalent, with a minimum breaking... nominal breaking strength of 5,400 pounds. (e) All safety belt and lanyard hardware shall be drop forged...

College Mental Health at the Cutting Edge?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schwartz, Victor

2013-01-01

As someone who has been involved in college mental health in three different roles, the author would say those who work in this field inhabit a strange space. College mental health centers are generally seen as somewhat peripheral to the core mission of universities by upper administration. Counseling centers do not reside within academic…

Content-Based Curriculum for High-Ability Learners, Second Edition

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

VanTassel-Baska, Joyce, Ed.; Little, Catherine A., Ed.

2011-01-01

The newly updated "Content-Based Curriculum for High-Ability Learners" provides a solid introduction to curriculum development in gifted and talented education. Written by experts in the field of gifted education, this text uses cutting-edge design techniques and aligns the core content with national and state standards. In addition to a revision…

Environmental changes in two lakes of Northern Patagonia (Chile): A 1000 yr reconstruction based on pollen and charcoal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nicole, Vargas; Laura, Torres; Alberto, Araneda; Fabiola, Cruces; Fernando, Torrejón; Denisse, Alvarez; G, Bizama; Nathalie, Fagel; Roberto, Urrutia

2010-05-01

We aim to reconstruct the environmental changes experimented in Patagonian ecosystems during the last 1000 years. We analyze sediment cores from two lakes (Thompson and Burgos), located in Aysen Region, Southern Chile. The samples were obtained using a gravity corer and sampled at intervals of 1 cm to 30 cm depth and every 5 cm until the end of the core. Thompson lake sediment core was sampled every 5 cm. Age model is based on radiocarbon datings on bulk sediments and macroremains. In Burgos lake we evidence two main climatic changes. A wet period between 876-1444 AD is marked by the presence of Pteridophytes. A colder and dryer period is then evidenced by an increase of Berberis sp between 1444 and 1656 AD. From 1834 AD to Present the sediment record is mainly affected by human activities. High concentrations of carbon particles and a sharp change in pollen assemblage (increase of Poaceae, decrease of Nothofagus dombeyi-Type) are indicators of two large fire events. The lacustrine sediment of Thompson is characterized by a wetter period, between 874 - 1168 AD, with abundance of Pteridophytes. Then from 1168 AD to Present the environmental conditions of the watershed were characterized by lower ferns and fire events. Two major fires were evidenced between 1850 AD and Present. Like in Burgos they are marked by major changes in plant associations (sharp increase in Poaceae, drastic loss of Nothofagus dombeyi-Type). Wet periods identified in both lakes at the base of the sediment record could correspond to manifestations of a warm climate anomaly like the Medieval Warm Period. The dry and cold period, especially obvious in the Burgos record, could be associated to a cold climate anomaly. Finally the great changes in vegetation that occurred from the year ~ 1830 in the basin of the two lakes were directly related to human activities (forest cutting) developed during the ninetheenth and twentieth centuries. This research is funded by both Chilean and Belgian projects (Fondecyt project N° 1070508; WBI Wallonie-Chile cooperation project, FNRS and ULg fundings).

Core-valence stockholder AIM analysis and its connection to nonadiabatic effects in small molecules.

PubMed

Amaral, Paulo H R; Mohallem, José R

2017-05-21

A previous theory of separation of motions of core and valence fractions of electrons in a molecule [J. R. Mohallem et al., Chem. Phys. Lett. 501, 575 (2011)] is invoked as basis for the useful concept of Atoms-in-Molecules (AIM) in the stockholder scheme. The output is a new tool for the analysis of the chemical bond that identifies core and valence electron density fractions (core-valence stockholder AIM (CVSAIM)). One-electron effective potentials for each atom are developed, which allow the identification of the parts of the AIM which move along with the nuclei (cores). This procedure results in a general method for obtaining effective masses that yields accurate non-adiabatic corrections to vibrational energies, necessary to attain cm -1 accuracy in molecular spectroscopy. The clear-cut determination of the core masses is exemplified for either homonuclear (H 2 + , H 2 ) or heteronuclear (HeH + , LiH) molecules. The connection of CVSAIM with independent physically meaningful quantities can resume the question of whether they are observable or not.

Core-valence stockholder AIM analysis and its connection to nonadiabatic effects in small molecules

PubMed Central

Amaral, Paulo H. R.; Mohallem, José R.

2017-01-01

A previous theory of separation of motions of core and valence fractions of electrons in a molecule [J. R. Mohallem et al., Chem. Phys. Lett. 501, 575 (2011)] is invoked as basis for the useful concept of Atoms-in-Molecules (AIM) in the stockholder scheme. The output is a new tool for the analysis of the chemical bond that identifies core and valence electron density fractions (core-valence stockholder AIM (CVSAIM)). One-electron effective potentials for each atom are developed, which allow the identification of the parts of the AIM which move along with the nuclei (cores). This procedure results in a general method for obtaining effective masses that yields accurate non-adiabatic corrections to vibrational energies, necessary to attain cm−1 accuracy in molecular spectroscopy. The clear-cut determination of the core masses is exemplified for either homonuclear (H2+, H2) or heteronuclear (HeH+, LiH) molecules. The connection of CVSAIM with independent physically meaningful quantities can resume the question of whether they are observable or not. PMID:28527456

Systematic review of the evidence for Trails B cut-off scores in assessing fitness-to-drive

PubMed Central

Roy, Mononita; Molnar, Frank

2013-01-01

Background Fitness-to-drive guidelines recommend employing the Trail Making B Test (a.k.a. Trails B), but do not provide guidance regarding cut-off scores. There is ongoing debate regarding the optimal cut-off score on the Trails B test. The objective of this study was to address this controversy by systematically reviewing the evidence for specific Trails B cut-off scores (e.g., cut-offs in both time to completion and number of errors) with respect to fitness-to-drive. Methods Systematic review of all prospective cohort, retrospective cohort, case-control, correlation, and cross-sectional studies reporting the ability of the Trails B to predict driving safety that were published in English-language, peer-reviewed journals. Results Forty-seven articles were reviewed. None of the articles justified sample sizes via formal calculations. Cut-off scores reported based on research include: 90 seconds, 133 seconds, 147 seconds, 180 seconds, and < 3 errors. Conclusions There is support for the previously published Trails B cut-offs of 3 minutes or 3 errors (the ‘3 or 3 rule’). Major methodological limitations of this body of research were uncovered including (1) lack of justification of sample size leaving studies open to Type II error (i.e., false negative findings), and (2) excessive focus on associations rather than clinically useful cut-off scores. PMID:23983828

The microstructural character and evolution of fault rocks from the SAFOD core and potential weakening mechanisms along the San Andreas Fault (Invited)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Holdsworth, R. E.; van Diggelen, E.; Spiers, C.; de Bresser, J. H.; Smith, S. A.

2009-12-01

In the region of the SAFOD borehole, the San Andreas Fault (SAF) separates two very different geological terranes referred to here as the Salinian and Great Valley blocks (SB, GVB). The three sections of core preserve a diverse range of fault rocks and pass through the two currently active, highly localised slipping sections, the so-called ‘10480’ and ‘10830’ fault zones . These coincide with a broader region - perhaps as much as 100m wide - of high strain fault rocks formed at some time in the geological past, but now currently inactive. Both the slipping segments and older high strain zone(s) are developed in the GVB located NE of the terrane boundary. This is likely influenced by the phyllosilicate-rich protolith of the GVB and the large volume of trapped fluid known to exist NE and below the SAF in this region. Microstructurally, lower strain domains (most of Core 1 cutting the SB, significant parts of Core 3 cutting the GVB) preserve clear evidence for classic upper crustal cataclastic brittle faulting processes and associated fluid flow. The GVB in particular shows clear geological evidence for both fluid pressure and differential stress cycling (variable modes of hydrofacture associated with faults) during seismicity. There is also some evidence in all minor faults for the operation of limited amounts of solution-precipitation creep. High strain domains (much of Core 2 cutting the GVB, parts of Core 3 adjacent to the 10830 fault) are characterised by the development of foliated cataclasites and gouge largely due to the new growth of fine-grained phyllosilicate networks (predominantly smectite-bearing mixed layer clays, locally serpentinite, but not talc). The most deformed sections are characterised by the development of shear band fabrics and asymmetric folds. Reworking and reactivation is widespread manifested by: i) the preservation of one or more earlier generations of gouge preserved as clasts; and ii) by the development of later interconnected, polished and striated slip surfaces at low angles or sub-parallel to the foliation. These are coated with thin phyllosilicate films and are closely associated with the development of lozenge, arrow-head and triangular mineral veins (mostly calcite) inferred to be precipitated in dilation sites during slip. The largest displacement gouges also preserve numerous rounded ‘exotic’ clasts. These include serpentinite, crystalline carbonate, anhydrite and quartzofeldspathic units that texturally look very similar to clasts found in the SB. The SAFOD core fault rocks highlight the fundamental role played by fluid-rock interactions in upper crustal fault zones. There is clear evidence for the development of high pore fluid pressures (hydrofracture development), reaction weakening (phyllosilicate growth following cataclasis) and geometric weakening due to the development of weak interconnected layers (foliations, polished striated slip surfaces). There are also very significant similarities between the fault rocks seen here and those preserved along other deeply exhumed weak fault elsewhere in the world.

The use of mini-samples in palaeomagnetism

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Böhnel, Harald; Michalk, Daniel; Nowaczyk, Norbert; Naranjo, Gildardo Gonzalez

2009-10-01

Rock cores of ~25 mm diameter are widely used in palaeomagnetism. Occasionally smaller diameters have been used as well which represents distinct advantages in terms of throughput, weight of equipment and core collections. How their orientation precision compares to 25 mm cores, however, has not been evaluated in detail before. Here we compare the site mean directions and their statistical parameters for 12 lava flows sampled with 25 mm cores (standard samples, typically 8 cores per site) and with 12 mm drill cores (mini-samples, typically 14 cores per site). The site-mean directions for both sample sizes appear to be indistinguishable in most cases. For the mini-samples, site dispersion parameters k on average are slightly lower than for the standard samples reflecting their larger orienting and measurement errors. Applying the Wilcoxon signed-rank test the probability that k or α95 have the same distribution for both sizes is acceptable only at the 17.4 or 66.3 per cent level, respectively. The larger mini-core numbers per site appears to outweigh the lower k values yielding also slightly smaller confidence limits α95. Further, both k and α95 are less variable for mini-samples than for standard size samples. This is interpreted also to result from the larger number of mini-samples per site, which better averages out the detrimental effect of undetected abnormal remanence directions. Sampling of volcanic rocks with mini-samples therefore does not present a disadvantage in terms of the overall obtainable uncertainty of site mean directions. Apart from this, mini-samples do present clear advantages during the field work, as about twice the number of drill cores can be recovered compared to 25 mm cores, and the sampled rock unit is then more widely covered, which reduces the contribution of natural random errors produced, for example, by fractures, cooling joints, and palaeofield inhomogeneities. Mini-samples may be processed faster in the laboratory, which is of particular advantage when carrying out palaeointensity experiments.

The influence of lumber grade on machine productivity in the rough mill

Treesearch

Philip H. Steele; Jan Wiedenbeck; Rubin Shmulsky; Anura Perera; Anura Perera

1999-01-01

Lumber grade effect on hardwood-part processing time was investigated with a digitally described lumber database in conjunction with a crosscut-first rough mill yield optimization simulator. In this study, the digital lumber sample was subdivided into five hardwood lumber grades. Three cutting bills with varying degrees of difficulty were Cut." The three cutting...

Application of a single needle type for all image-guided biopsies: results of 100 consecutive core biopsies in various organs using a novel tri-axial, end-cut needle

PubMed Central

Diederich, S; Padge, B; Vossas, U; Hake, R; Eidt, S

2006-01-01

Purpose: To assess feasibility, results and complications in image-guided biopsies using a single needle design in various organs. Materials and methods: 100 consecutive percutaneous biopsies were performed in 54 females and 46 males aged 24–87 years (mean age/standard deviation: 64.5 +/− 12 years) using a full-core end-cut tri-axial full-automatic biopsy needle (18 gauge BioPince ™, InterV-MDTech, Gainesville, Florida) under CT (n=45) or ultrasound (n=55) guidance. In 63 biopsies a coaxial technique was used. Results: Biopsies were obtained of liver (n=32), lymph nodes (n=17), thyroid (n=11), lung (n=9), adrenal (n=9), pelvis (n=6), chest wall/pleura (n=6), mediastinum (n=4), lytic bone lesions (n=2), retroperitoneum (n=1), muscle (n=1), pancreas (n=1), peritoneum (n=1). Between 1 and 6 (mean/SD 2.83 +/− 0.92) needle passes were performed. In 77 cases a malignant (40 metastases, 37 primary tumours) and in 23 a benign lesion was diagnosed. Of the 23 benign lesions a specific diagnosis was possible in 22. In one case necrosis and haemorrhage was diagnosed. In this patient surgery and autopsy both revealed a mediastinal haematoma of unknown origin. Eight minor complications (mild pain/local haematoma requiring no therapy) and three major complications (three pneumothoraces in nine lung biopsies requiring two aspirations and one drainage) were observed. There was no mortality. Conclusion: Percutaneous image-guided biopsy using the described full-core end-cut needle resulted in a specific diagnosis in 99/100 consecutive biopsies in various organs with a low complication rate. We use this needle type for all CT- or US-guided biopsies in all organs except for solid bone. PMID:16766268

Opportunities and Challenges of Linking Scientific Core Samples to the Geoscience Data Ecosystem

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Noren, A. J.

2016-12-01

Core samples generated in scientific drilling and coring are critical for the advancement of the Earth Sciences. The scientific themes enabled by analysis of these samples are diverse, and include plate tectonics, ocean circulation, Earth-life system interactions (paleoclimate, paleobiology, paleoanthropology), Critical Zone processes, geothermal systems, deep biosphere, and many others, and substantial resources are invested in their collection and analysis. Linking core samples to researchers, datasets, publications, and funding agencies through registration of globally unique identifiers such as International Geo Sample Numbers (IGSNs) offers great potential for advancing several frontiers. These include maximizing sample discoverability, access, reuse, and return on investment; a means for credit to researchers; and documentation of project outputs to funding agencies. Thousands of kilometers of core samples and billions of derivative subsamples have been generated through thousands of investigators' projects, yet the vast majority of these samples are curated at only a small number of facilities. These numbers, combined with the substantial similarity in sample types, make core samples a compelling target for IGSN implementation. However, differences between core sample communities and other geoscience disciplines continue to create barriers to implementation. Core samples involve parent-child relationships spanning 8 or more generations, an exponential increase in sample numbers between levels in the hierarchy, concepts related to depth/position in the sample, requirements for associating data derived from core scanning and lithologic description with data derived from subsample analysis, and publications based on tens of thousands of co-registered scan data points and thousands of analyses of subsamples. These characteristics require specialized resources for accurate and consistent assignment of IGSNs, and a community of practice to establish norms, workflows, and infrastructure to support implementation.

Cutting thin glass by femtosecond laser ablation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shin, Hyesung; Kim, Dongsik

2018-06-01

The femtosecond laser ablation process for cutting thin aluminoborosilicate glass sheets of thickness 100 μm was investigated with emphasis on effective cutting speed (Veff) and mechanical strength of diced samples. The process parameters including the laser fluence (F), overlap ratio (r) of the laser beam and polarization direction were varied at a fixed pulse repetition rate f = 1 kHz to find the optimal process condition that maximizes Veff and edge strength. A three-point bending test was performed to evaluate the front-side and back-side bending (edge) strength of the laser-cut samples. Veff was proportional to F unless r exceeded a critical value, at which excessive energy began to be delivered at the same spot. The front-side edge strength was bigger than the back-side strength because of the back-side damages such as chipping. Good edge strength, as high as ∼280 MPa (front-side) and ∼230 MPa (back-side), was obtained at F = 19 J/m2, r = 0.99, with laser polarization vertical to the cutting path.

Predicting capillarity of mudrocks for geological storage of CO2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Busch, Andreas; Amann-Hildenbrand, Alexandra

2013-04-01

Various rock types were investigated, with the main focus on the determination and prediction of the capillary breakthrough and snap-off pressure in mudrocks (e.g. shales, siltstones, mudstones). Knowledge about these two critical pressures is important for the prediction of the capillary sealing capacity of CO2 storage sites. Capillary pressure experiments, when performed on low-permeable core plugs, are difficult and time consuming. Laboratory measurements on core plugs under in-situ conditions are mostly performed using nitrogen, but also with methane and carbon dioxide. Therefore, mercury porosimetry measurements (MIP) are preferably used in the industry to determine an equivalent value for the capillary breakthrough pressure. These measurements have the advantage to be quick and cheap and only require cuttings or trim samples. When evaluating the database in detail we find that (1) MIP data plot well with the drainage breakthrough pressures determined on sample plugs, while the conversion of the system Hg/air to CO2/brine using interfacial and wettability data does not provide a uniform match, potentially caused by non fully water-wet conditions; (2) brine permeability versus capillary breakthrough pressure determined on sample plugs shows a good match and could provide a first estimate of Pc-values since permeability is easier to determine than capillary breakthrough pressures. For imbibition snap-off pressures a good correlation was found for CH4 measured on sample plugs only; (3) porosity shows a fairly good correlation with permeability for sandstone only, and with plug-derived capillary breakthrough pressures for sandstones, carbonates and evaporates. No such correlations exist for mudrocks; (4) air and brine-derived permeabilities show an excellent correlation and (5) from the data used we do not infer any direct correlations between specific surface area (SSA), mineralogy or organic carbon content with permeability or capillary pressure however were able to predict permeabilities using a more sophisticated model that relies on several of these parameters.

Role of sampling times and serum cortisol cut-off concentrations on the routine assessment of adrenal function using the standard cosyntropin test in an academic hospital from Spain: a retrospective chart review.

PubMed

Ortiz-Flores, Andrés E; Santacruz, Elisa; Jiménez-Mendiguchia, Lucía; García-Cano, Ana; Nattero-Chávez, Lia; Escobar-Morreale, Héctor F; Luque-Ramírez, Manuel

2018-05-05

Aiming to validate the use of a single poststimulus sampling protocol for cosyntropin test short standard high-dose test (SST) in our institution, our primary objectives were (1) to determine the concordance between 30 and 60 min serum cortisol (SC) measurements during SST; and (2) to evaluate the diagnostic agreement between both sampling times when using classic or assay-specific and sex-specific SC cut-off values. The secondary objectives included (1) estimating the specificity and positive predictive value of 30 and 60 min sampling times while considering the suspected origin of adrenal insufficiency (AI); and (2) obtaining assay-specific cut-off values for SC after SST in a group of subjects with normal hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This is a retrospective chart review study conducted at a Spanish academic hospital from 2011 to 2015. Two groups were evaluated: (1) a main study group including 370 patients in whom SC was measured at 30 and 60 min during SST; and (2) a confirmative group that included 150 women presenting with a normal HPA axis in whom SST was conducted to rule out late-onset congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Diagnostic agreement between both sampling times was assessed by considering both classic (500 nmol/L) and assay-specific SC cut-off concentrations. Diagnostic agreement between both sampling times was greater when applying sex-specific and assay-specific cut-off values instead of the classic cut-off values. For suspected primary AI, 30 min SC determination was enough to establish a diagnosis in over 95% of cases, without missing any necessary treatment. When central AI is suspected, 60 min SC measurement was more specific, establishing a diagnosis in over 97% of cases. Sex-specific and assay-specific SC cut-off values improve the diagnostic accuracy of SST. For primary disease, a subnormal SC response at 30 min is a reliable marker of adrenal dysfunction. On the contrary, when central AI is suspected, 60 min SC measurement improves the diagnostic accuracy of the test. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

Cross-validation of the Dot Counting Test in a large sample of credible and non-credible patients referred for neuropsychological testing.

PubMed

McCaul, Courtney; Boone, Kyle B; Ermshar, Annette; Cottingham, Maria; Victor, Tara L; Ziegler, Elizabeth; Zeller, Michelle A; Wright, Matthew

2018-01-18

To cross-validate the Dot Counting Test in a large neuropsychological sample. Dot Counting Test scores were compared in credible (n = 142) and non-credible (n = 335) neuropsychology referrals. Non-credible patients scored significantly higher than credible patients on all Dot Counting Test scores. While the original E-score cut-off of ≥17 achieved excellent specificity (96.5%), it was associated with mediocre sensitivity (52.8%). However, the cut-off could be substantially lowered to ≥13.80, while still maintaining adequate specificity (≥90%), and raising sensitivity to 70.0%. Examination of non-credible subgroups revealed that Dot Counting Test sensitivity in feigned mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) was 55.8%, whereas sensitivity was 90.6% in patients with non-credible cognitive dysfunction in the context of claimed psychosis, and 81.0% in patients with non-credible cognitive performance in depression or severe TBI. Thus, the Dot Counting Test may have a particular role in detection of non-credible cognitive symptoms in claimed psychiatric disorders. Alternative to use of the E-score, failure on ≥1 cut-offs applied to individual Dot Counting Test scores (≥6.0″ for mean grouped dot counting time, ≥10.0″ for mean ungrouped dot counting time, and ≥4 errors), occurred in 11.3% of the credible sample, while nearly two-thirds (63.6%) of the non-credible sample failed one of more of these cut-offs. An E-score cut-off of 13.80, or failure on ≥1 individual score cut-offs, resulted in few false positive identifications in credible patients, and achieved high sensitivity (64.0-70.0%), and therefore appear appropriate for use in identifying neurocognitive performance invalidity.

Mars Technology Rover with Arm-Mounted Percussive Coring Tool, Microimager, and Sample-Handling Encapsulation Containerization Subsystem

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Younse, Paulo J.; Dicicco, Matthew A.; Morgan, Albert R.

2012-01-01

A report describes the PLuto (programmable logic) Mars Technology Rover, a mid-sized FIDO (field integrated design and operations) class rover with six fully drivable and steerable cleated wheels, a rocker-bogey suspension, a pan-tilt mast with panorama and navigation stereo camera pairs, forward and rear stereo hazcam pairs, internal avionics with motor drivers and CPU, and a 5-degrees-of-freedom robotic arm. The technology rover was integrated with an arm-mounted percussive coring tool, microimager, and sample handling encapsulation containerization subsystem (SHEC). The turret of the arm contains a percussive coring drill and microimager. The SHEC sample caching system mounted to the rover body contains coring bits, sample tubes, and sample plugs. The coring activities performed in the field provide valuable data on drilling conditions for NASA tasks developing and studying coring technology. Caching of samples using the SHEC system provide insight to NASA tasks investigating techniques to store core samples in the future.

Customized fiber glass posts. Fatigue and fracture resistance.

PubMed

Costa, Rogério Goulart; De Morais, Eduardo Christiano Caregnatto; Campos, Edson Alves; Michel, Milton Domingos; Gonzaga, Carla Castiglia; Correr, Gisele Maria

2012-02-01

To evaluate the root fracture strength of human single-rooted premolars restored with customized fiberglass post-core systems after fatigue simulation. 40 human premolars had their crowns cut and the root length was standardized to 13 mm. The teeth were endodontically treated and embedded in acrylic resin. The specimens were distributed into four groups (n=10) according to the restorative material used: prefabricated fiber post (PFP), PFP+accessory fiber posts (PFPa), PFP+unidirectional fiberglass (PFPf), and unidirectional fiberglass customized post (CP). All posts were luted using resin cement and the cores were built up with a resin composite. The samples were stored for 24 hours at 37 degrees C and 100% relative humidity and then submitted to mechanical cycling. The specimens were then compressive-loaded in a universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/minute until fracture. The failure patterns were analyzed and classified. Data was submitted to one-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (alpha = 0.05). The mean values of maximum load (N) were: PFP - 811.4 +/- 124.3; PFPa - 729.2 +/- 157.2; PFPf- 747.5 +/- 204.7; CP - 762.4 +/- 110. Statistical differences were not observed among the groups. All groups showed favorable restorable failures. Fiberglass customized post did not show improved fracture resistance or differences in failure patterns when compared to prefabricated glass fiber posts.

Data from a Thick Unsaturated Zone Underlying Two Artificial Recharge Sites along Oro Grande Wash in the Western Part of the Mojave Desert, near Victorville, San Bernardino County, California, 2001-2006

USGS Publications Warehouse

Clark, Dennis A.; Izbicki, John A.; Johnson, Russell D.; Land, Michael

2009-01-01

This report presents data on the physical and hydraulic properties of unsaturated alluvial deposits and on the chemical and isotopic composition of water collected at two recharge sites in the western part of the Mojave Desert, near Victorville, California, from 2001 to 2006. Unsaturated-zone monitoring sites were installed adjacent to the two recharge ponds using the ODEX air-hammer and air rotary method to depths of about 460 feet and 269 feet below land surface. Each of the two unsaturated-zone monitoring sites included a water-table well, matric-potential sensors, and suction-cup lysimeters installed in a single bore hole. Drilling procedures, lithologic and geophysical data, and site construction and instrumentation are described. Core material was analyzed for water content, bulk density, water potential, particle size, and water retention. The chemical composition of leachate from almost 400 samples of cores and cuttings was determined. Water from suction-cup lysimeters also was analyzed for chemical and isotopic composition. In addition, data on the chemical and isotopic composition of groundwater from the two water-table wells are reported along with chemical and isotopic composition of the surface water in the recharge ponds.

Numerical simulation of rock fragmentation during cutting by conical picks under confining pressure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Xuefeng; Wang, Shibo; Ge, Shirong; Malekian, Reza; Li, Zhixiong

2017-12-01

In this article, the effect of confining pressure on rock fragmentation process during cutting was investigated by numerical simulation with a discrete element method (DEM). Four kinds of sandstones with different physical properties were simulated in the rock cutting models under different confining pressures. The rock fragmentation process, the cutting force, and the specific energy under different confining pressures were analyzed. With the increase in confining pressure and rock strength, the vertical propagation of cracks was restrained. Rock samples were compacted and strengthened by confining pressure resulting in the increase of the cutting force. The specific energy of rock cutting linearly increased with the increase of the confining pressure ratio.

Timing of metamorphism and exhumation in the Nordøyane ultra-high-pressure domain, Western Gneiss Region, Norway: New constraints from complementary CA-ID-TIMS and LA-MC-ICP-MS geochronology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Butler, J. P.; Jamieson, R. A.; Dunning, G. R.; Pecha, M. E.; Robinson, P.; Steenkamp, H. M.

2018-06-01

We present the results of a combined CA-ID-TIMS and LA-MC-ICP-MS U-Pb geochronology study of zircon and associated rutile and titanite from the Nordøyane ultra-high-pressure (UHP) domain in the Western Gneiss Region (WGR) of Norway. The dated samples include 4 eclogite bodies, 2 host-rock migmatites, and 2 cross-cutting pegmatites and leucosomes, all from the island of Harøya. Zircon from a coesite eclogite yielded an age of ca. 413 Ma, interpreted as the time of UHP metamorphism in this sample. Zircon data from the other eclogite bodies yielded metamorphic ages of ca. 413 Ma, 407 Ma, and 406 Ma; zircon trace-element data associated with 413 Ma and 407 Ma ages are consistent with eclogite-facies crystallization. In all of the eclogites, U-Pb dates from zircon cores, interpreted as the times of protolith crystallization, range from ca. 1680-1586 Ma, consistent with Gothian ages from orthogneisses in Nordøyane and elsewhere in the WGR. A zircon core age of ca. 943 Ma from one sample agrees with Sveconorwegian ages of felsic gneisses and pegmatites in the western part of the area. Migmatites hosting the eclogite bodies yielded zircon core ages of ca. 1657-1591 Ma and rim ages of ca. 395-392 Ma, interpreted as the times of Gothian protolith formation and Scandian partial melt crystallization, respectively. Pegmatite in an eclogite boudin neck yielded a crystallization age of ca. 388 Ma, interpreted as the time of melt crystallization. Rutile and titanite from 3 samples (an eclogite and two migmatites) yielded concordant ID-TIMS ages of 378-376 Ma. The results are similar to existing U-Pb data from other Nordøyane eclogites (415-405 Ma). In combination with previous pressure-temperature data from the coesite eclogite, these ages indicate that peak metamorphic conditions of 3 GPa/760 °C were reached ca. 413 Ma, followed by decompression to 1 GPa/810 °C by ca. 397 Ma and cooling below ca. 600 °C by ca. 375 Ma. The results are compatible with protracted UHP metamorphism followed by relatively slow exhumation. The question of whether partial melting began at UHP conditions is not resolved by this study.

HowTo - Easy use of global unique identifier

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Czerniak, A.; Fleischer, D.; Schirnick, C.

2013-12-01

The GEOMAR sample- and core repository covers several thousands of samples and cores and was collected over the last decades. In the actual project, we bring this collection up to the new generation and tag every sample and core with a unique identifier, in our case the International Geo Sample Number (ISGN). This work is done with our digital Ink and hand writing recognition implementation. The Smart Pen technology was save time and resources to record the information on every sample or core. In the procedure of recording, there are several steps systematical are done: 1. Getting all information about the core or sample, such as cruise number, responsible person and so on. 2. Tag with unique identifiers, in our case a QR-Code. 3. Wrote down the location of sample or core. After transmitting the information from Smart Pen, actually via USB but wireless is a choice too, into our server infrastructure the link to other information began. As it linked in our Virtual Research Environment (VRE) with the unique identifier (ISGN) sample or core can be located and the QR-Code was simply linked back from core or sample to ISGN with additional scientific information. On the QR-Code all important information are on it and it was simple to produce thousand of it.

Filter forensics: microbiota recovery from residential HVAC filters.

PubMed

Maestre, Juan P; Jennings, Wiley; Wylie, Dennis; Horner, Sharon D; Siegel, Jeffrey; Kinney, Kerry A

2018-01-30

Establishing reliable methods for assessing the microbiome within the built environment is critical for understanding the impact of biological exposures on human health. High-throughput DNA sequencing of dust samples provides valuable insights into the microbiome present in human-occupied spaces. However, the effect that different sampling methods have on the microbial community recovered from dust samples is not well understood across sample types. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) filters hold promise as long-term, spatially integrated, high volume samplers to characterize the airborne microbiome in homes and other climate-controlled spaces. In this study, the effect that dust recovery method (i.e., cut and elution, swabbing, or vacuuming) has on the microbial community structure, membership, and repeatability inferred by Illumina sequencing was evaluated. The results indicate that vacuum samples captured higher quantities of total, bacterial, and fungal DNA than swab or cut samples. Repeated swab and vacuum samples collected from the same filter were less variable than cut samples with respect to both quantitative DNA recovery and bacterial community structure. Vacuum samples captured substantially greater bacterial diversity than the other methods, whereas fungal diversity was similar across all three methods. Vacuum and swab samples of HVAC filter dust were repeatable and generally superior to cut samples. Nevertheless, the contribution of environmental and human sources to the bacterial and fungal communities recovered via each sampling method was generally consistent across the methods investigated. Dust recovery methodologies have been shown to affect the recovery, repeatability, structure, and membership of microbial communities recovered from dust samples in the built environment. The results of this study are directly applicable to indoor microbiota studies utilizing the filter forensics approach. More broadly, this study provides a better understanding of the microbial community variability attributable to sampling methodology and helps inform interpretation of data collected from other types of dust samples collected from indoor environments.

Device Acquires and Retains Rock or Ice Samples

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Giersch, Louis R.; Backes, Paul G.

2009-01-01

The Rock Baller is a sample acquisition tool that improves sample retention. The basic elements of the Rock Baller are the tool rotation axis, the hub, the two jaws, and the cutting blades, which are located on each of the jaws. The entire device rotates about the tool rotation axis, which is aligned parallel to the nominal normal direction of the parent rock surface. Both jaws also rotate about the jaw axis, which is perpendicular to the tool rotation axis, at a rate much slower than the rotation about the tool rotation axis. This movement gradually closes the jaws into a nearly continuous hemispherical shell that encloses the sample as it is cut from the parent rock. When required the jaws are opened to release the sample. The hemispherical cutting method eliminates the sample retention problems associated with existing sample acquisition methods that employ conventional cylindrical cutting. The resulting samples are hemispherical, or nearly hemispherical, and as a result the aspect ratio (sample depth relative to sample radius) is essentially fixed. This fixed sample aspect ratio may be considered a drawback of the Rock Baller method, as samples with a higher aspect ratio (more depth, less width) may be considered more scientifically valuable because such samples would allow for a broader inspection of the geological record. This aspect ratio issue can be ameliorated if the Rock Baller is paired with a device similar to the Rock Abrasion Tool (RAT) used on the Mars Exploration Rovers. The RAT could be used to first grind into the surface of the parent rock, after which the Rock Baller would extract a sample from a depth inside the rock that would not have been possible without first using the RAT. Other potential applications for this technology include medical applications such as the removal of tissue samples or tumors from the body, particularly during endoscopic, laparoscopic, or thoracoscopic surgeries.

An experimental study of the carbonation of serpentinite and partially serpentinised peridotites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lacinska, Alicja M.; Styles, Michael T.; Bateman, Keith; Hall, Matthew; Brown, Paul D.

2017-06-01

In situ sequestration of CO2 in mantle peridotites has been proposed as a method to alleviate the amount of anthropogenic CO2 in the atmosphere. This study presents the results of eight-month long laboratory fluid-rock experiments on representative mantle rocks from the Oman-United Arab Emirates ophiolite to investigate this process. Small core samples (3 cm long) were reacted in wet supercritical CO2 and CO2-saturated brine at 100 bar and 70°C. The extent of carbonate formation, and hence the degree of carbon sequestration, varied greatly depending on rock type, with serpentinite (lizardite-dominated) exhibiting the highest capacity, manifested by the precipitation of magnesite MgCO3 and ferroan magnesite (Mg,Fe)CO3. The carbonate precipitation occurred predominantly on the surface of the core and subordinately within cross-cutting fractures. The extent of the CO2 reactions appeared to be principally controlled by the chemical and mineralogical composition of the rock, as well as the rock texture, with all these factors influencing the extent and rate of mineral dissolution and release of Mg and Fe for subsequent reaction with the CO2. It was calculated that ≈ 0.7 g of CO2 was captured by reacting ≈ 23 g of serpentinite, determined by the mass of magnesite formed. This equates to ≈ 30 kg CO2 per tonne of host rock, equivalent to ≈ 3% carbonation in half a year. However, recycling of carbonate present in veins within the original rock sample could mean that the overall amount is around 2%. The increased reactivity of serpentinite was associated with preferential dissolution of more reactive types of serpentine minerals and brucite, that were mainly present in the cross-cutting veins. The bulk of the serpentinite rock was little affected. This study, using relatively short term experiments, suggests that serpentinite might be a good host rock for CO2 sequestration, although long term experiments might prove that dunite and harzburgite could be an effective in an engineered system of CCSM. Wet scCO2 proved to be chemically aggressive than CO2-saturated brine and its ingress along fractures and grain boundaries resulted in greater host rock dissolution and subsequent carbonate precipitation.

Data from a thick unsaturated zone in Joshua Tree, San Bernardino County, California, 2007--09

USGS Publications Warehouse

Burgess, Matthew; Izbicki, John; Teague, Nicholas; O'Leary, David R.; Clark, Dennis; Land, Michael

2012-01-01

Data were collected on the physical properties of unsaturated alluvial deposits, the chemical composition of leachate extracted from unsaturated alluvial deposits, the chemical and isotopic composition of groundwater and unsaturated-zone water, and the chemical composition of unsaturated-zone gas at four monitoring sites in the southwestern part of the Mojave Desert in the town of Joshua Tree, San Bernardino County, California. The presence of denitrifying and nitrate-reducing bacteria from unsaturated alluvial deposits was evaluated for two of these monitoring sites that underlie unsewered residential development. Four unsaturated-zone monitoring sites were installed in the Joshua Tree area—two in an unsewered residential development and two adjacent to a proposed artificial-recharge site in an undeveloped area. The two boreholes in residential development areas were installed by using the ODEX air-hammer method. One borehole was drilled through the unsaturated zone to a depth of 541 ft (feet) below land surface; a well screened across the water table was installed. Groundwater was sampled from this well. The second borehole was drilled to a depth of 81 ft below land surface. Drilling procedures, lithologic and geophysical data, construction details, and instrumentation placed in these boreholes are described. Core material was analyzed for water content, bulk density, matric potential, particle size, and water retention. The leachate from over 500 subsamples of cores and cuttings was analyzed for soluble anions, including fluoride, sulfate, bromide, chloride, nitrate, nitrite, and orthophosphate. Groundwater was analyzed for major ions, inorganic compounds, select trace elements, and isotopic composition. Unsaturated-zone water from suction-cup lysimeters was analyzed for major ions, inorganic compounds, select trace elements, and isotopic composition. Unsaturated-zone gas samples were analyzed for argon, oxygen, nitrogen, methane, carbon dioxide, ethane, nitrous oxide, and carbon monoxide. Drill cuttings were analyzed for denitrifying and nitrate-reducing bacteria. One of the boreholes installed adjacent to the Joshua Basin Water District proposed groundwater-recharge facility was installed by using the ODEX air-hammer method and the other was installed by using a 7.875-inch hollow-stem auger. Drilling procedures, lithologic and geophysical data, construction details, and instrumentation placed in these boreholes are described; however, geochemical data were not available at the time of publication.

Gamma-hydroxybutyric acid endogenous production and post-mortem behaviour - the importance of different biological matrices, cut-off reference values, sample collection and storage conditions.

PubMed

Castro, André L; Dias, Mário; Reis, Flávio; Teixeira, Helena M

2014-10-01

Gamma-Hydroxybutyric Acid (GHB) is an endogenous compound with a story of clinical use, since the 1960's. However, due to its secondary effects, it has become a controlled substance, entering the illicit market for recreational and "dance club scene" use, muscle enhancement purposes and drug-facilitated sexual assaults. Its endogenous context can bring some difficulties when interpreting, in a forensic context, the analytical values achieved in biological samples. This manuscript reviewed several crucial aspects related to GHB forensic toxicology evaluation, such as its post-mortem behaviour in biological samples; endogenous production values, whether in in vivo and in post-mortem samples; sampling and storage conditions (including stability tests); and cut-off reference values evaluation for different biological samples, such as whole blood, plasma, serum, urine, saliva, bile, vitreous humour and hair. This revision highlights the need of specific sampling care, storage conditions, and cut-off reference values interpretation in different biological samples, essential for proper practical application in forensic toxicology. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd and Faculty of Forensic and Legal Medicine. All rights reserved.

Mineralogy and Acid-Extractable Geochemistry from the Loki's Castle Hydrothermal Field, Norwegian Sea at 74 degrees N (South Knipovich Ridge)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barriga, F. J.; Fonseca, R.; Dias, S.; Cruz, I.; Carvalho, C.; Relvas, J. M.; Pedersen, R.

2010-12-01

The Loki’s Castle hydrothermal vent field was discovered in the summer of 2008 during a cruise led by the Centre of Geobiology of the University of Bergen, integrated in the H2Deep Project (Eurocores, ESF; see Pedersen et al., 2010, AGU Fall Meeting, Session OS26). Fresh volcanic glasses analyzed by EPMA are basalts. The vent site is composed of several active, over 10 m tall chimneys, producing up to 320 C fluid, at the top of a very large sulfide mound (estimated diameter 200 m). Mineralogy: The main sulfide assemblage in chimneys consists of sphalerite (Sp), pyrite (Py) and pyrrhotite, with lesser chalcopyrite (Ccp). Sulphide-poor selected samples collected at the base of chimneys are mostly composed of anhydrite (Anh), gypsum and talc (Tlc). Association of quartz, anhydrite, gypsum and barite were also found in some of the samples. The sulphide-poor samples from the base of the chimneys denote seawater interaction with the hydrothermal fluid and consequent decrease in temperature, precipitating sulfates. Sphalerite compositions are Zn(0.61-0.70)Fe(0.39-0.30)S. The variations in Fe content are consistent with those of hot, reduced hydrothermal fluids. The observed sulfide assemblage is consistent with the temperature of 320C measured in Loki’s Castle vents. Compositional zonation in sphalerites suggests different pulses of activity of the hydrothermal system, with higher contents of Zn in the center of the crystals. Geochemistry: Here we report preliminary data part of a major analytical task of sequential extraction of metals from sediments in the vicinity of Loki’s Castle, in an attempt to detect correlations with microbial populations and/or subseafloor mineralized intervals. The abundances of Cu, Pb, Ni, Cr, Zn, Fe, Mn and Co in sediments were determined by aqua regia extraction on subsamples from 7 gravity cores. Several anomalous intervals were sampled, in which Cu<707ppm, Ni shows many weak peaks (<50ppm), Cr shows 6 peaks (<121ppm), Zn shows 4 well-defined peaks (<234ppm). Fe varies up to ~9% and Mn, not surprisingly, is enriched in the upper few centimeters of each core. Co shows hardly any peaks. The various metals show variable degrees of intercorrelation. Cores GC6 and GC7, both located ~25 km to the SW of Loki’s Castle, contain the most anomalous intervals. Some intervals contain clusters of anomalous values of most analyzed metals, in others the anomalies are scattered vertically through both cores. The variations in metal contents along the GC6 and GC7 cores indicate oscillation in hydrothermal activity during sediment formation, suggesting different pulses of activity of the hydrothermal field. These two cores also reveal an enrichment in Mn in the upper layers, which could indicate either oxyhydroxide precipitation directly under the seafloor, due to the gradual mixing of the hydrothermal plumes with seawater (cooler and more oxidizing). Collectively, these data suggest both layered and cross-cutting metal-enriched intervals. The latter may correspond to hydrothermal upflow of mineralized solutions through the sediments.

Latent class analysis of the diagnostic characteristics of PCR and conventional bacteriological culture in diagnosing intramammary infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus in dairy cows at dry off

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Staphylococcus aureus is one of the most common causes of intramammary infections in dairy cows at dry off. Reliable identification is important for disease management on herd level and for antimicrobial treatment of infected animals. Our objective was to evaluate the test characteristics of PathoProof ™ Mastitis PCR Assay and bacteriological culture (BC) in diagnosing bovine intramammary infections caused by S. aureus at dry off at different PCR cycle threshold (Ct)-value cut-offs. Methods Sterile quarter samples and non-sterile composite samples from 140 animals in seven herds were collected in connection with the dairy herd improvement (DHI) milk recording. All quarter samples were analyzed using BC whereas all composite samples were analyzed with PathoProof ™ Mastitis PCR Assay. Latent class analysis was used to estimate test properties for PCR and BC in the absence of a perfect reference test. The population was divided into two geographically divided subpopulations and the Hui-Walter 2-test 2-populations model applied to estimate Se, Sp for the two tests, and prevalence for the two subpopulations. Results The Se for PCR increased with increasing Ct-value cut-off, accompanied by a small decrease in Sp. For BC the Se decreased and Sp increased with increasing Ct-value cut-off. Most optimal test estimates for the real-time PCR assay were at a Ct-value cut-off of 37; 0.93 [95% posterior probability interval (PPI) 0.60-0.99] for Se and 0.95 [95% PPI 0.95-0.99] for Sp. At the same Ct-value cut-off, Se and Sp for BC were 0.83 [95% PPI 0.66-0.99] and 0.97 [95% PPI 0.91-0.99] respectively. Depending on the chosen PCR Ct-value cut-off, the prevalence in the subpopulations varied; the prevalence increased with increasing PCR Ct-value cut-offs. Conclusion Neither BC nor real-time PCR is a perfect test in detecting IMI in dairy cows at dry off. The changes in sensitivity and prevalence at different Ct-value cut-offs for both PCR and BC may indicate a change in the underlying disease definition. At low PCR Ct-value cut-offs the underlying disease definition may be a truly/heavily infected cow, whereas at higher PCR Ct-value cut-offs the disease definition may be a S. aureus positive cow. PMID:23164432

Improved Numerical Calculation of the Single-Mode-No-Core-Single-Mode Fiber Structure Using the Fields Far from Cutoff Approximation

PubMed Central

Yang, Xianchao; Xu, Degang; Rong, Feng; Zhao, Junfa; Yao, Jianquan

2017-01-01

Multimode interferometers based on the single-mode-no-core-single-mode fiber (SNCS) structure have been widely investigated as functional devices and sensors. However, the theoretical support for the sensing mechanism is still imperfect, especially for the cladding refractive index response. In this paper, a modified model of no-core fiber (NCF) based on far from cut-off approximation is proposed to investigate the spectrum characteristic and sensing mechanism of the SNCS structure. Guided-mode propagation analysis (MPA) is used to analyze the self-image effect and spectrum response to the cladding refractive index and temperature. Verified by experiments, the performance of the SNCS structure can be estimated specifically and easily by the proposed method. PMID:28961174

Ejector subassembly for dual wall air drilling

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

Kolle, J.J.

1996-09-01

The dry drilling system developed for the Yucca Mountain Site Characterization Project incorporates a surface vacuum system to prevent drilling air and cuttings from contaminating the borehole wall during coring operations. As the drilling depth increases, however there is a potential for borehole contamination because of the limited volume of air which can be removed by the vacuum system. A feasibility analysis has shown that an ejector subassembly mounted in the drill string above the core barrel could significantly enhance the depth capacity of the dry drilling system. The ejector subassembly would use a portion of the air supplied tomore » the core bit to maintain a vacuum on the hole bottom. The results of a design study including performance testing of laboratory scale ejector simulator are presented here.« less

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis: Toward An Empirical Case Definition

PubMed Central

Jason, Leonard A.; Kot, Bobby; Sunnquist, Madison; Brown, Abigail; Evans, Meredyth; Jantke, Rachel; Williams, Yolonda; Furst, Jacob; Vernon, Suzanne D.

2015-01-01

Current case definitions of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) have been based on consensus methods, but empirical methods could be used to identify core symptoms and thereby improve the reliability. In the present study, several methods (i.e., continuous scores of symptoms, theoretically and empirically derived cut off scores of symptoms) were used to identify core symptoms best differentiating patients from controls. In addition, data mining with decision trees was conducted. Our study found a small number of core symptoms that have good sensitivity and specificity, and these included fatigue, post-exertional malaise, a neurocognitive symptom, and unrefreshing sleep. Outcomes from these analyses suggest that using empirically selected symptoms can help guide the creation of a more reliable case definition. PMID:26029488

Predominant bacteria in an activated sludge reactor for the degradation of cutting fluids

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

Baker, C.A.; Claus, G.W.; Taylor, P.A.

1983-01-01

For the first time, an activated sludge reactor, established for the degradation of cutting fluids, was examined for predominant bacteria. In addition, both total and viable numbers of bacteria in the reactor were determined so that the percentage of each predominant type in the total reactor population could be determined. Three samples were studied, and a total of 15 genera were detected. In each sample, the genus Pseudomonas and the genus Microcyclus were present in high numbers. Three other genera, Acinetobacter, Alcaligenes, and Corynebacterium, were also found in every sample but in lower numbers. In one sample, numerous appendage bacteriamore » were present, and one of these, the genus Seliberia, was the most predominant organism in that sample. However, in the other two samples no appendage bacteria were detected. Six genera were found in this reactor which have not been previously reported in either cutting fluids in use or in other activated sludge systems. These genera were Aeromonas, Hyphomonas, Listeria, Microcyclus, Moraxella, and Spirosoma. None of the predominant bacterial belonged to groups of strict pathogens. 22 references, 6 figures, 3 tables.« less

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

Miller, D. H.; Reigel, M. M.

A full-scale formed core sampler was designed and functionally tested for use in the Saltstone Disposal Facility (SDF). Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL) was requested to compare properties of the formed core samples and core drilled samples taken from adjacent areas in the full-scale sampler. While several physical properties were evaluated, the primary property of interest was hydraulic conductivity. Differences in hydraulic conductivity between the samples from the formed core sampler and those representing the bulk material were noted with respect to the initial handling and storage of the samples. Due to testing conditions, the site port samples were exposedmore » to uncontrolled temperature and humidity conditions prior to testing whereas the formed core samples were kept in sealed containers with minimal exposure to an uncontrolled environment prior to testing. Based on the results of the testing, no significant differences in porosity or density were found between the formed core samples and those representing the bulk material in the test stand.« less

Geochemical changes and fracture development in Woodford Shale cores following hydrous pyrolysis under uniaxial confinement

USGS Publications Warehouse

Birdwell, Justin E.; Lewan, Michael D.; Miller, Michael; Baez, Luis; Beeney, Ken; Sonnenberg, Steve

2013-01-01

A uniaxial confinement clamp was used on Woodford Shale cores in hydrous pyrolysis experiments to study fracture development during thermal maturation. The clamp simulates overburden in that it prevents cores from expanding perpendicular to bedding fabric during the volume-increasing reactions associated with petroleum generation. Cores were cut from a slab of immature Woodford Shale and subjected to hydrous pyrolysis under confinement at 300, 330, and 365 °C for 72 hours to induce thermal maturities ranging from early bitumen to maximum expelled-oil generation. Two additional cores were used as experimental controls: (1) a confined core was saturated with water by heating it to 100 °C under hydrous pyrolysis conditions for 72 hours to use for characterization of the original rock, and (2) an unconfined core was heated at 365 °C for 72 hours to evaluate the effects of confinement on petroleum generation and expulsion. X-ray computed tomography (X-CT) imaging and other analyses identified five distinct beds within the cored interval. Using a tentative classification system, beds 1, 2, and 3 are described as dolomitic marlstone (DM) with total organic carbon (TOC) contents of 7.7, 5.8, and 7.7 wt. %, respectively; bed 4 is a cherty quartzose claystone (CQC) with TOC content of 5.5 wt. %; and bed 5 is a quartzose claystone with TOC content of 10.9 wt. %. Bed samples all had similar Rock-Eval hydrogen indices (600 ± 46 mg S2/g-TOC) and Tmax values (433 ± 2 °C), demonstrating organic matter uniformity and low thermal maturity. The X-CT scan of the core heated to 100 °C showed preexisting fractures that were nearly perpendicular to the bedding fabric primarily in the low-TOC DM bed 2 and CQC bed 4. Heating led to enhancement of preexisting fractures in the confined cores with the greatest enhancement occurring in CQC bed 4. The fractures increased in size and intensity with temperature. This is attributed to the internal pressure generated by volume-increasing reactions during the conversion of kerogen to bitumen and bitumen to oil and gas. The unconfined core heated to 365 °C showed no enhanced fracturing and its X-CT-scan resembled that of the 100 °C confined core. Comparison of the oil and gas yields from the confined and unconfined cores heated to 365 °C showed no significant differences, indicating that product expulsion is not inhibited by the procedure used in this study. These results also indicate that fracturing during thermal maturation is driven primarily by the enhancement of existing fractures.

Dating of 30m ice cores drilled by Japanese Antarctic Research Expedition and environmental change study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Motoyama, H.; Suzuki, T.; Fukui, K.; Ohno, H.; Hoshina, Y.; Hirabayashi, M.; Fujita, S.

2017-12-01

1. Introduction It is possible to reveal the past climate and environmental change from the ice core drilled in polar ice sheet and glaciers. The 54th Japanese Antarctic Research Expedition conducted several shallow core drillings up to 30 m depth in the inland and coastal areas of the East Antarctic ice sheet. Ice core sample was cut out at a thickness of about 5 cm in the cold room of the National Institute of Polar Research, and analyzed ion, water isotope, dust and so one. We also conducted dielectric profile measurement (DEP measurement). The age as a key layer of large-scale volcanic explosion was based on Sigl et al. (Nature Climate Change, 2014). 2. Inland ice core Ice cores were collected at the NDF site (77°47'14"S, 39°03'34"E, 3754 m.a.s.l.) and S80 site (80°00'00"S, 40°30'04"E, 3622 m.a.s.l.). Dating of ice core was done as follows. Calculate water equivalent from core density. Accumulate water equivalent from the surface. Approximate the relation of depth - cumulative water equivalent by a quartic equation. We determined the key layer with nssSO42 - peak corresponding to several large volcanic explosions. The accumulation rate was kept constant between the key layers. As a result, NDF was estimated to be around 1360 AD and S80 was estimated to be around 1400 AD in the deepest ice core. 3. Coastal ice core An ice core was collected at coastal H15 sites (69°04'10"S, 40°44'51"E, 1030 m.a.s.l.). Dating of ice core was done as follows. Calculate water equivalent from ice core density. Accumulate water equivalent from the surface. Approximate the relation of depth - cumulative water equivalent by a quartic equation. Basically we decided to summer (December) and winter (June) due to the seasonal change of the water isotope (δD or δ18O). In addition to the seasonal change of isotope, confirm the following. Maximum of SO42- / Na +, which is earlier in time than the maximum of water isotope. Maximum of MSA at about the same time as the maximum of the water isotope. Na+ is maximal immediately after the local maximum of the water isotope. The deepest age was estimated to be around 1940 AD. 4. Example of results In the inland area, the annual average surface mass balance decreased from 1450 to 1850 AD, but it has increased since 1850 AD. The annual mass balance of coastal H15 is consistent with the result of snow stake measurement.

Core design for use with precision composite reflectors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Porter, Christopher C. (Inventor); Jacoy, Paul J. (Inventor); Schmitigal, Wesley P. (Inventor)

1992-01-01

A uniformly flexible core, and method for manufacturing the same, is disclosed for use between the face plates of a sandwich structure. The core is made of a plurality of thin corrugated strips, the corrugations being defined by a plurality of peaks and valleys connected to one another by a plurality of diagonal risers. The corrugated strips are orthogonally criss-crossed to form the core. The core is particularly suitable for use with high accuracy spherically curved sandwich structures because undesirable stresses in the curved face plates are minimized due to the uniform flexibility characteristics of the core in both the X and Y directions. The core is self venting because of the open geometry of the corrugations. The core can be made from any suitable composite, metal, or polymer. Thermal expansion problems in sandwich structures may be minimized by making the core from the same composite materials that are selected in the manufacture of the curved face plates because of their low coefficients of thermal expansion. Where the strips are made of a composite material, the core may be constructed by first cutting an already cured corrugated sheet into a plurality of corrugated strips and then secondarily bonding the strips to one another or, alternatively, by lying a plurality of uncured strips orthogonally over one another in a suitable jig and then curing and bonding the entire plurality of strips to one another in a single operation.

Use of lasers in the furniture industry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wieloch, Grzegorz; Pohl, Piotr

1995-03-01

One of the ways of using laser in industry is its usage in loss treatment of wood and composite wood products. In the furniture industry the above mentioned machining is used in such technological processes in which tool machining (sawing, molding) is not economical or even possible. These processes are mainly curvilinear cutting of layer materials like veneers, plywood, and face layers and thicker materials like particleboards, fiberboards, and lumber- core panels. Wide usage has also been achieved in heat treatment in wood for decoration. It can be calcinating designs, engraving them, blackening of parts of surfaces, or changing of anatomic characteristics of wood tissue. Nevertheless laser usage in recliner cutting seems at present causeless.

Growth after partial cutting of ponderosa pine on permanent sample plots in eastern Oregon.

Treesearch

Edwin L. Mowat

1961-01-01

Between the years 1913 and 1938, seven sets of permanent sample plots were established on the Whitman, Malheur, Rogue River, and Deschutes National Forests in eastern and central Oregon to study the results of various methods of selection cutting in old-growth ponderosa pine stands. This report briefly describes these studies and gives statistics on board-foot growth...

Conceptual hydrogeologic framework of the shallow aquifer system at Virginia Beach, Virginia

USGS Publications Warehouse

Smith, Barry S.; Harlow, George E.

2002-01-01

The hydrogeologic framework of the shallow aquifer system at Virginia Beach was revised to provide a better understanding of the distribution of fresh ground water, its potential use, and its susceptibility to contamination. The revised conceptual framework is based primarily on analyses of continuous cores and downhole geophysical logs collected at 7 sites to depths of approximately 200 ft.The shallow aquifer system at Virginia Beach is composed of the Columbia aquifer, the Yorktown confining unit, and the Yorktown-East-over aquifer. The shallow aquifer system is separated from deeper units by the continuous St. Marys confining unit.The Columbia aquifer is defined as the predominantly sandy surficial deposits above the Yorktown confining unit. The Yorktown confining unit is composed of a series of very fine sandy to silty clay units of various colors at or near the top of the Yorktown Formation. The Yorktown confining unit varies in thickness and in composition, but on a regional scale is a leaky confining unit. The Yorktown-Eastover aquifer is defined as the predominantly sandy deposits of the Yorktown Formation and the upper part of the Eastover Formation above the confining clays of the St. Marys Formation. The limited areal extent of highly permeable deposits containing freshwater in the Yorktown-Eastover aquifer precludes the installation of highly productive freshwater wells over most of the city. Some deposits of biofragmental sand or shell hashes in the Yorktown-Eastover aquifer can support high-capacity wells.A water sample was collected from each of 10 wells installed at 5 of the 7 core sites to determine the basic chemistry of the aquifer system. One shallow well and one deep well was installed at each site. Concentrations of chloride were higher in the water from the deeper well at each site. Concentrations of dissolved iron in all of the water samples were higher than the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Secondary Drinking Water Regulations. Concentrations of manganese and chloride were higher than the Secondary Drinking Water Regulations in samples from some wells.In the humid climate of Virginia Beach, the periodic recharge of freshwater through the sand units of the shallow aquifer system occurs often enough to create a dynamic equilibrium whereby freshwater flows continually down and away from the center of the ridges to mix with and sweep brackish water and saltwater back toward the tidal rivers, bays, salt marshes, and the Atlantic Ocean.The aquifers and confining units of the shallow aquifer system at Virginia Beach are heterogeneous, discontinuous, and without exact marker beds, which makes correlations in the study area difficult. Investigations using well cuttings, spot cores, or split-spoon samples with geophysical logs are not as definitive as continuous cores for determining or correlating hydrogeologic units. Future investigations of the shallow aquifer system would benefit by collecting continuous cores.

Microbial safety and overall quality of cantaloupe fresh-cut pieces prepared from whole fruit after wet steam treatment.

PubMed

Ukuku, Dike O; Geveke, David J; Chau, Lee; Niemira, Brendan A

2016-08-16

Fresh-cut cantaloupes have been associated with outbreaks of Salmonellosis. Minimally processed fresh-cut fruits have a limited shelf life because of deterioration caused by spoilage microflora and physiological processes. The objectives of this study were to use a wet steam process to 1) reduce indigenous spoilage microflora and inoculated populations of Salmonella, Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Listeria monocytogenes on the surface of cantaloupes, and 2) reduce the populations counts in cantaloupe fresh-cut pieces after rind removal and cutting. The average inocula of Salmonella, E. coli O157:H7 and Listeria monocytogenes was 10(7)CFU/ml and the populations recovered on the cantaloupe rind surfaces after inoculation averaged 4.5, 4.8 and 4.1logCFU/cm(2), respectively. Whole cantaloupes were treated with a wet steam processing unit for 180s, and the treated melons were stored at 5°C for 29days. Bacterial populations in fresh-cut pieces prepared from treated and control samples stored at 5 and 10°C for up to 12days were determined and changes in color (CIE L*, a*, and b*) due to treatments were measured during storage. Presence and growth of aerobic mesophilic bacteria and Salmonella, E. coli O157:H7 and L. monocytogenes were determined in fresh-cut cantaloupe samples. There were no visual signs of physical damage on all treated cantaloupe surfaces immediately after treatments and during storage. All fresh-cut pieces from treated cantaloupes rind surfaces were negative for bacterial pathogens even after an enrichment process. Steam treatment significantly (p<0.05) changed the color of the fresh-cut pieces. Minimal wet steam treatment of cantaloupes rind surfaces designated for fresh-cut preparation will enhance the microbial safety of fresh-cut pieces, by reducing total bacterial populations. This process holds the potential to significantly reduce the incidence of foodborne illness associated with fresh-cut fruits. Published by Elsevier B.V.

A scanning tunneling microscope capable of imaging specified micron-scale small samples.

PubMed

Tao, Wei; Cao, Yufei; Wang, Huafeng; Wang, Kaiyou; Lu, Qingyou

2012-12-01

We present a home-built scanning tunneling microscope (STM) which allows us to precisely position the tip on any specified small sample or sample feature of micron scale. The core structure is a stand-alone soft junction mechanical loop (SJML), in which a small piezoelectric tube scanner is mounted on a sliding piece and a "U"-like soft spring strip has its one end fixed to the sliding piece and its opposite end holding the tip pointing to the sample on the scanner. Here, the tip can be precisely aligned to a specified small sample of micron scale by adjusting the position of the spring-clamped sample on the scanner in the field of view of an optical microscope. The aligned SJML can be transferred to a piezoelectric inertial motor for coarse approach, during which the U-spring is pushed towards the sample, causing the tip to approach the pre-aligned small sample. We have successfully approached a hand cut tip that was made from 0.1 mm thin Pt∕Ir wire to an isolated individual 32.5 × 32.5 μm(2) graphite flake. Good atomic resolution images and high quality tunneling current spectra for that specified tiny flake are obtained in ambient conditions with high repeatability within one month showing high and long term stability of the new STM structure. In addition, frequency spectra of the tunneling current signals do not show outstanding tip mount related resonant frequency (low frequency), which further confirms the stability of the STM structure.

Publications - GMC 393 | Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical

Science.gov Websites

Slope and Chukchi Sea wells: Atigaru Point 1, Burger 1, Crackerjack 1, Drew Point 1, E. Simpson 2, East of cuttings and core from 23 North Slope and Chukchi Sea wells: Atigaru Point 1, Burger 1 (433.0 K) Keywords Chukchi Sea; North Slope; Rock-Eval Pyrolysis Top of Page Department of Natural

A Bird and Bee Problem in House Siding

Treesearch

Louis F. Wilson; Henry A. Huber

1976-01-01

Plywood house siding made to simulate reverse board-and-batten design is sometimes attacked by woodpeckers because leaf-cutting bees, their prey, make nests in holes in the plywood core. The problem can be prevented by plugging the holes before nesting occurs. If nesting does occur, the nest should be destroyed and then the holes plugged.

Systems Check: Community Colleges Turn to Facilities Assessments to Plan Capital Projects and Avoid Expensive Emergency Repairs

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Joch, Alan

2014-01-01

With an emphasis on planning and cutting costs to make better use of resources, facilities managers at community colleges across the nation have undertaken facilities audits usually with the help of outside engineers. Such assessments analyze the history and structural integrity of buildings and core components on campus, including heating…

The City as a Focus for University Internationalisation: Four European Examples

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ransom, James

2018-01-01

Internationalisation is a cross-cutting theme in the strategic plans of many universities, and an increased international profile is a core goal for many cities. At the same time, even the leaders of some of Europe's most avowedly outward-facing, 'global' universities have begun to prioritise relations with their city counterparts in recent years.…

The Degree Qualifications Profile: What It Is and Why We Need It Now

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jankowski, Natasha; Hutchings, Pat; Ewell, Peter; Kinzie, Jillian; Kuh, George

2013-01-01

There is no shortage of challenges facing postsecondary institutions in the US. One that cuts to the core of the enterprise is whether they are preparing their graduates to live productive, civically responsible lives in a dynamic global marketplace mapped onto diverse, yet increasingly interdependent, social and cultural systems. Much of the…

What a Joint. Youth Training Scheme. Core Exemplar Work Based Project.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Further Education Staff Coll., Blagdon (England).

This trainer's guide is intended to assist supervisors of work-based career training projects in helping students become familiar with meat processing--livestock at the stockyards, meat packers (wholesalers), and butcher shops--to the cooked state and to become familiar with the different joints (cuts or parts) of beef, lamb, and pork. The guide…

Tensile properties of the human glenoid labrum

PubMed Central

Smith, C D; Masouros, S D; Hill, A M; Wallace, A L; Amis, A A; Bull, A M J

2008-01-01

Human fresh-frozen cadaveric glenoid labrae from 16 donors were harvested and ten of these had no gross degeneration. These ten were divided into eight equal circumferential sections. Each section was cut to produce test-samples from the core layer with a cross-section of 1 × 1 mm. Tensile testing was performed within a controlled environment unit at 37 ± 1 °C and 100% relative humidity. Each test-sample was precycled to a quasi-static state to alleviate the effects of deep-freezing, prior to final testing. The tangent modulus was calculated for each test-sample before and after a 5-min period of stress relaxation and at yield. The mean elastic modulus and yield stress of the glenoid labrum were 22.8 ± 11.4 and 2.5 ± 2.1 MPa, respectively. The anterosuperior portion had a lower elastic modulus and lower yield stress than the inferior portion (both P < 0.02). The pre-stress relaxation tangent modulus was significantly lower than the post-stress relaxation tangent modulus for all portions of the labrum. The glenoid labrum has similar tensile material properties to articular cartilage. Its elastic modulus varies around its circumference. This suggests that the labrum may encounter different forces at different positions. PMID:18031481

Method and apparatus utilizing ionizing and microwave radiation for saturation determination of water, oil and a gas in a core sample

DOEpatents

Maerefat, Nicida L.; Parmeswar, Ravi; Brinkmeyer, Alan D.; Honarpour, Mehdi

1994-01-01

A system for determining the relative permeabilities of gas, water and oil in a core sample has a microwave emitter/detector subsystem and an X-ray emitter/detector subsystem. A core holder positions the core sample between microwave absorbers which prevent diffracted microwaves from reaching a microwave detector where they would reduce the signal-to-noise ratio of the microwave measurements. The microwave emitter/detector subsystem and the X-ray emitter/detector subsystem each have linear calibration characteristics, allowing one subsystem to be calibrated with respect to the other subsystem. The dynamic range of microwave measurements is extended through the use of adjustable attenuators. This also facilitates the use of core samples with wide diameters. The stratification characteristics of the fluids may be observed with a windowed cell separator at the outlet of the core sample. The condensation of heavy hydrocarbon gas and the dynamic characteristics of the fluids are observed with a sight glass at the outlet of the core sample.

Hydraulic Resistance of Vitreous Cutters: The Impact of Blade Design and Cut Rate.

PubMed

Rossi, Tommaso; Querzoli, Giorgio; Angelini, Giampiero; Malvasi, Carlo; Rossi, Alessandro; Morini, Mario; Esposito, Graziana; Micera, Alessandra; di Luca, Natale Mario; Ripandelli, Guido

2016-07-01

To measure the hydraulic resistance (HR) of vitreous cutters equipped with a Regular guillotine Blade (RB) or double edge blade (DEB) at cut rates comprised between 0 and 12,000 cuts per minute (CPM) and compare it with vitreous fragment size. This was an in vitro experimental study; in vivo HR measure and vitreous sampling. HR, defined as aspiration pressure/flow rate, was measured in balanced salt solution (BSS; Alcon, Fort Worth, TX) (in vitro) and during pars plana vitrectomy of 20 consecutive patients aged 18 to 65, undergoing macular surgery. HR was recorded at increasing cut rates (500-6000 CPM for the RB and 500-12,000 CPM for the DEB; 5 mL/min flow). Vitreous samples were withdrawn and analyzed with Western and collagen type II and IX immunostaining to evaluate protein size. The main outcome measures were hydraulic resistance (mm Hg/ml/min [±SD]) and optic density for Western blot and immunostaining. RB and DEB showed identical HR in BSS between 0 and 3000 CPM. Above 3000 CPM, RB HR steadily increased, and was significantly higher than DEB HR. Vitreous HR was also similar for the two blades between 0 and 1500 CPM. Above 1500 CPM, RB offered a significantly higher resistance. Western blot and immunostaining of vitreous samples did not yield a significant difference in size, regardless of blade type and cut rate. DEB is more efficient, offering a lower HR than RB over 1500 CPM in human vitreous. There is no viscosity reduction as a function of cut-rate between 1500 and 12,000 CPM, as HR does not vary. Future vitreous cutters will benefit of a DEB; optimal cut rate needs to be defined, and the simple increase of cut rate does not provide benefits after a certain limit to be assessed.

Detecting paraprotein interference on a direct bilirubin assay by reviewing the photometric reaction data.

PubMed

García-González, Elena; Aramendía, Maite; González-Tarancón, Ricardo; Romero-Sánchez, Naiara; Rello, Luis

2017-07-26

The direct bilirubin (D-Bil) assay on the AU Beckman Coulter instrumentation can be interfered by paraproteins, which may result in spurious D-Bil results. In a previous work, we took advantage of this fact to detect this interference, thus helping with the identification of patients with unsuspected monoclonal gammopathies. In this work, we investigate the possibility to detect interference based on the review of the photometric reactions, regardless of the D-Bil result. The D-Bil assay was carried out in a set of 2164 samples. It included a group of 164 samples with paraproteins (67 of which caused interference on the assay), as well as different groups of samples for which high absorbance background readings could also be expected (i.e. hemolyzed, lipemic, or icteric samples). Photometric reaction data were reviewed and receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves were used to establish a cut-off for absorbance that best discriminates interference. The best cut-off was 0.0100 for the absorbance at the first photometric point of the complementary wavelength in the blank cuvette. Once the optimal cut-off for probable interference was selected, all samples analyzed in our laboratory that provided absorbance values above this cut-off were further investigated to try to discover paraproteins. During a period of 6 months, we detected 44 samples containing paraproteins, five of which belonged to patients with non-diagnosed monoclonal gammopathies. Review of the photometric reaction data permits the systematic detection of paraprotein interference on the D-Bil AU assay, even for samples for which reasonable results are obtained.

Tethyan Anhydrite Preserved in the Lower Ocean Crust of the Samail Ophiolite? Evidence from Oman Drilling Project Holes GT1A and 2A

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Teagle, D. A. H.; Harris, M.; Crispini, L.; Deans, J. R.; Cooper, M. J.; Kelemen, P. B.; Alt, J.; Banerjee, N.; Shanks, W. C., III

2017-12-01

Anhydrite is important in mid-ocean ridge hydrothermal systems because of the high concentrations of calcium and sulfate in modern seawater and anhydrite's retrograde solubility. Because anhydrite hosts many powerful tracers of fluid-rock interactions (87Sr/86Sr, δ18O, δ34S, trace elements, fluid inclusions) it is useful for tracing the chemical evolution of hydrothermal recharge fluids and estimating time-integrated fluid fluxes. Anhydrite can form from heated seawater (>100°C), through water-rock reaction, or by mixing of seawater and hydrothermal fluids. Although abundant in active hydrothermal mounds, and predicted to form from downwelling, warming fluids during convection, anhydrite is rare in drill core from seafloor lavas, sheeted dikes and upper gabbros, with only minor amounts in ODP Holes 504B and 1256D. Because anhydrite can dissolve during weathering, its occurrence in ophiolites is unexpected. Instead, gypsum is present in Macquarie Island lavas and Miocene gypsum fills cavities within the Cretaceous Troodos ore deposits. Thus, the occurrence of numerous anhydrite veins in cores from the gabbroic lower crust of the Samail ophiolite in Oman was unanticipated. To our knowledge, anhydrite in Oman gabbros has not been previously reported. Oman Drilling Project Holes GT1A and GT2A were drilled into the Wadi Gideah section of the Wadi Tayin massif. Both recovered 400 m of continuous core from sections of layered gabbros (GT1) and the foliated-layered gabbro transition (GT2). Anhydrite is present throughout both holes, some in vein networks but more commonly as isolated 1-110 mm veins (>60 mm ave). Anhydrite is mostly the sole vein filling but can occur with greenschist minerals such as epidote, quartz, chlorite and prehnite. Anhydrite commonly exhibits prismatic and bladed textures but can also be capriciously microcrystalline. Though definitive cross cutting relationships are elusive, anhydrite veins cut across some greenschist veins. Anhydrite is deformed in faults with asymmetries consistent with normal senses of shear, suggestive of formation near the ridge, or at least before obduction. Gypsum is also present in both holes, but is clearly late stage and cuts across all earlier vein sets and deformation features. Notably, anhydrite was not observed in core from Hole GT3, in the dike-gabbro transition.

Towards crack-free ablation cutting of thin glass sheets with picosecond pulsed lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Mingying; Eppelt, Urs; Hartmann, Claudia; Schulz, Wolfgang; Zhu, Jianqiang; Lin, Zunqi

2017-08-01

We investigated the morphology and mechanism of laser-induced damage in the ablation cutting of thin glass sheets with picosecond laser. Two kinds of damage morphologies observed on the cross-section of the cut channel, are caused by high-density free-electrons and the temperature accumulation, respectively. Notches and micro-cracks can be observed on the top surface of the sample near the cut edge. The surface micro-cracks were related to high energy free-electrons and also the heat-affected zone. Heat-affected-zone and visible-cracks free conditions of glass cutting were achieved by controlling the repetition rate and spatial overlap of laser pulses.

Metal-silicate partitioning of Co, Ni, V, Cr, Si, and O up to 100 GPa and 5500 K: Implications for core formation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fischer, R. A.; Campbell, A. J.; Frost, D. J.; Harries, D.; Langenhorst, F.; Miyajima, N.; Pollok, K.; Rubie, D. C.

2013-12-01

During core formation, metal and silicate of accreted bodies equilibrated with the proto-Earth in a series of partitioning reactions, characterized by average (or time-intregrated) partition coefficients that can be calculated assuming a bulk Earth that is chondritic in nonvolatile elements [e.g. 1]. Comparisons to experimentally-measured partition coefficients allow constraints on the time-integrated conditions of core-mantle equilibration [e.g. 2-7], providing valuable input into more complex chemical models of Earth's evolution [8]. Partitioning has been studied extensively in the multi-anvil press [e.g. 3, 7], but very few studies extend to pressures above ~25 GPa [e.g. 2, 5-6]. In this study, we measure the metal-silicate partitioning of Co, Ni, V, Cr, Si, and O at higher pressures and temperatures. Thin foils of Fe-rich alloy doped with trace elements were loaded in a diamond anvil cell between layers of (Mg,Fe)2SiO4. Samples were laser-heated to melt the metal and silicate. After decompression, samples were cut parallel to the compression axis into sections ~100 nm thick with a focused ion beam (FIB). Chemical analyses of all elements except oxygen in the coexisting metal, silicate, and oxide were performed using energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDXS) in a transmission electron microscope (TEM). Later, samples were further thinned by FIB to ~60 nm and analyzed by electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) in a TEM to determine the Fe/O ratio of the metal. Analysis was performed on a suite of six experiments from pressures of 25, 31, 43, 57, 58, and 100 GPa and temperatures above the silicate liquidus, up to 5500 K. Our results are generally consistent with the recent findings of [5-6], although our log(KD) values for cobalt are ~0.1-0.2 log units lower. Some of our experiments contain carbon in the metal which may affect the partitioning of some elements. The metal in the experiment from 100 GPa and 5500 K contains 9 wt% silicon and an estimated 11 wt% oxygen, which is a significantly higher percentage of light elements than the Earth's outer core is thought to contain [e.g. 1]. Using our results, we develop a model for metal/silicate exchange during core formation, the light element composition of the core, and possible chemical reactions at the core-mantle boundary. [1] McDonough, W.F. (2003) Treatise on Geochemistry, Vol. 2, pp 547-568. [2] Bouhifd, M.A. and A.P. Jephcoat (2011) Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 307, 341-348. [3] Mann, U., D.J. Frost, and D.C. Rubie (2009) Geochim. Cosmochim. Acta 73, 7360-7386. [4] Righter, K. et al. (2010) Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 291, 1-9. [5] Siebert, J. et al. (2012) Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 321-322, 189-197. [6] Siebert, J. et al. (2013) Science 339, 1194-1197. [7] Wade, J., and B.J. Wood (2005) Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 236, 78-95. [8] Rubie, D.C. et al. (2011) Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 301, 31-42.

Geology and description of thorium and rare-earth deposits in the southern Bear Lodge Mountains, northeastern Wyoming

USGS Publications Warehouse

Staatz, M.H.

1983-01-01

The Bear Lodge Mountains are a small northerly trending range approximately 16 km northwest of the Black Hills in the northeast corner of Wyoming. Thorium and rare-earth deposits occur over an area of 16 km 2 in the southern part of these mountains. These deposits occur in the core of the Bear Lodge dome in a large multiple intrusive body made up principally of trachyte and phonolite. Two types of deposits are recognized: disseminated deposits and veins. The disseminated deposits are made up of altered igneous rocks cut by numerous crisscrossing veinlets. The disseminated deposits contain thorium and rare-earth minerals in a matrix consisting principally of potassium feldspar, quartz, and iron and manganese oxides. Total rare-earth content of these deposits is about 27 times that of the thorium content. The general size and shape of the disseminated deposits were outlined by making a radiometric map using a scintillation counter of the entire Bear Lodge core, an area of approximately 30 km 2 . The most favorable part of this area, which was outlined by the 40 countJs (count-per-second) isograd on the radiometric map, was sampled in detail. A total of 341 samples were taken over an area of 10.6 km 2 and analyzed for as many as 60 elements. Rare earths and thorium are the principal commodities of interest in these deposits. Total rare-earth content of these samples ranged from 47 to 27,145 ppm (parts per million), and the thorium content from 9.3 to 990 ppm. The amount of total rare earths of individual samples shows little correlation with that of thorium. Contour maps were constructed using the analytical data for total rare earths, thorium, uranium, and potassium. The total rare-earth and thorium maps can be used to define the size of the deposits based on what cut-off grade may be needed during mining. The size is large as the 2,000 ppm total rare-earth isograd encloses several areas that total 3.22 km 2 in size, and the 200 ppm thorium isograd encloses several areas that total 1.69 km 2 . These deposits could be mined by open pit. The Bear Lodge disseminated deposits have one of the largest resources of both total rare earths and thorium in the United States, and although the grade of both commodities is lower than some other deposits, their large size and relative cheapness of mining make them an important future resource. Vein deposits in the Bear Lodge Mountains include all tabular bodies at least 5 cm thick. Twenty-six veins were noted in this area. These veins are thin and short; the longest vein was traced for only 137 m. Minerals vary greatly in the amount present. Gangue minerals are commonly potassium feldspar, quartz, or cristobalite intermixed with varying amounts of limonite, hematite, and various manganese oxides. Rare earths and thorium occur in the minerals monazite, brockite, and bastnaesite. Thorium content of 35 samples ranged from 0.01 to 1.2 percent, and the total rare-earth content of 21 samples from 0.23 to 9.8 percent. Indicated reserves were calculated to a depth of one-third the exposed length of the vein. Inferred reserves lie in a block surrounding indicated reserves. Indicated reserves of all veins are only 50 t of Th0 2 and 1,360 t of total rare-earth oxides; inferred reserves are 250 t of Th0 2 and 6,810 t of total rare-earth oxides. The Bear Lodge dome, which underlies the greater part of this area, is formed by multiple intrusive bodies of Tertiary age that dome up the surrounding sedimentary rocks. In the southern part of the core, the younger intrusive bodies surround and partly replace a granite of Precambrian age. This granite is approximately 2.6 b.y. old. The sedimentary rocks around the core are (from oldest to youngest): Deadwood Formation of Late Cambrian and Early Ordovician age, Whitewood Limestone of Late Ordovician age, Pahasapa Limestone of Early Mississippian age, Minnelusa Sandstone of Pennsylvanian and Early Permian age, Opeche Formation of Permian age, Minnek

Cutting of Gold Foil in the Genesis Laboratory

NASA Image and Video Library

2005-02-15

The facility for storing and examining Genesis solar wind samples consists of two adjacent laboratories. In these laboratories, the cutting of gold foil to be used in the gathering of the solar wind dust aboard the Genesis spacecraft. Views include: The process of cutting gold foil to be used aboard the Genesis spacecraft. The technicians use Gore-Tex suits with filters as to not contaminate the items.

Self-Harm through Cutting: Evidence from a Sample of Schools in the North of England

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hall, Brian; Elliott, Joe; Place, Maurice

2010-01-01

This project explored the prevalence of self-harm by cutting in a geographically circumscribed area of the North of England, using a school-based survey. Twenty-three per cent of the young people reported they had cut themselves at least once, with no major changes evident at different age groups or with gender. There were clear differences in…

Photodiode-based cutting interruption sensor for near-infrared lasers.

PubMed

Adelmann, B; Schleier, M; Neumeier, B; Hellmann, R

2016-03-01

We report on a photodiode-based sensor system to detect cutting interruptions during laser cutting with a fiber laser. An InGaAs diode records the thermal radiation from the process zone with a ring mirror and optical filter arrangement mounted between a collimation unit and a cutting head. The photodiode current is digitalized with a sample rate of 20 kHz and filtered with a Chebyshev Type I filter. From the measured signal during the piercing, a threshold value is calculated. When the diode signal exceeds this threshold during cutting, a cutting interruption is indicated. This method is applied to sensor signals from cutting mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminum, as well as different material thicknesses and also laser flame cutting, showing the possibility to detect cutting interruptions in a broad variety of applications. In a series of 83 incomplete cuts, every cutting interruption is successfully detected (alpha error of 0%), while no cutting interruption is reported in 266 complete cuts (beta error of 0%). With this remarkable high detection rate and low error rate, the possibility to work with different materials and thicknesses in combination with the easy mounting of the sensor unit also to existing cutting machines highlight the enormous potential for this sensor system in industrial applications.

Characterization of Flame Cut Heavy Steel: Modeling of Temperature History and Residual Stress Formation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jokiaho, T.; Laitinen, A.; Santa-aho, S.; Isakov, M.; Peura, P.; Saarinen, T.; Lehtovaara, A.; Vippola, M.

2017-12-01

Heavy steel plates are used in demanding applications that require both high strength and hardness. An important step in the production of such components is cutting the plates with a cost-effective thermal cutting method such as flame cutting. Flame cutting is performed with a controlled flame and oxygen jet, which burns the steel and forms a cutting edge. However, the thermal cutting of heavy steel plates causes several problems. A heat-affected zone (HAZ) is generated at the cut edge due to the steep temperature gradient. Consequently, volume changes, hardness variations, and microstructural changes occur in the HAZ. In addition, residual stresses are formed at the cut edge during the process. In the worst case, unsuitable flame cutting practices generate cracks at the cut edge. The flame cutting of thick steel plate was modeled using the commercial finite element software ABAQUS. The results of modeling were verified by X-ray diffraction-based residual stress measurements and microstructural analysis. The model provides several outcomes, such as obtaining more information related to the formation of residual stresses and the temperature history during the flame cutting process. In addition, an extensive series of flame cut samples was designed with the assistance of the model.

Real-time haptic cutting of high-resolution soft tissues.

PubMed

Wu, Jun; Westermann, Rüdiger; Dick, Christian

2014-01-01

We present our systematic efforts in advancing the computational performance of physically accurate soft tissue cutting simulation, which is at the core of surgery simulators in general. We demonstrate a real-time performance of 15 simulation frames per second for haptic soft tissue cutting of a deformable body at an effective resolution of 170,000 finite elements. This is achieved by the following innovative components: (1) a linked octree discretization of the deformable body, which allows for fast and robust topological modifications of the simulation domain, (2) a composite finite element formulation, which thoroughly reduces the number of simulation degrees of freedom and thus enables to carefully balance simulation performance and accuracy, (3) a highly efficient geometric multigrid solver for solving the linear systems of equations arising from implicit time integration, (4) an efficient collision detection algorithm that effectively exploits the composition structure, and (5) a stable haptic rendering algorithm for computing the feedback forces. Considering that our method increases the finite element resolution for physically accurate real-time soft tissue cutting simulation by an order of magnitude, our technique has a high potential to significantly advance the realism of surgery simulators.

Method for manufacturing magnetohydrodynamic electrodes

DOEpatents

Killpatrick, D.H.; Thresh, H.R.

1980-06-24

A method of manufacturing electrodes for use in a magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) generator is described comprising the steps of preparing a billet having a core of a first metal, a tubular sleeve of a second metal, and an outer sheath of an extrusile metal; evacuating the space between the parts of the assembled billet; extruding the billet; and removing the outer jacket. The extruded bar may be made into electrodes by cutting and bending to the shape required for an MHD channel frame. The method forms a bond between the first metal of the core and the second metal of the sleeve strong enough to withstand a hot and corrosive environment.

Propagation of Electromagnetic Waves in Slab Waveguide Structure Consisting of Chiral Nihility Claddings and Negative-Index Material Core Layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Helal, Alaa N. Abu; Taya, Sofyan A.; Elwasife, Khitam Y.

2018-06-01

The dispersion equation of an asymmetric three-layer slab waveguide, in which all layers are chiral materials is presented. Then, the dispersion equation of a symmetric slab waveguide, in which the claddings are chiral materials and the core layer is negative index material, is derived. Normalized cut-off frequencies, field profile, and energies flow of right-handed and left-handed circularly polarized modes are derived and plotted. We consider both odd and even guided modes. Numerical results of guided low-order modes are provided. Some novel features, such as abnormal dispersion curves, are found.

Prevalence of Campylobacter spp. in poultry and poultry products for sale on the Bulgarian retail market.

PubMed

Stoyanchev, Todor; Vashin, Ivan; Ring, Christian; Atanassova, Viktoria

2007-10-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of Campylobacter spp. in poultry and poultry products available for the consumers at retail markets in Bulgaria. Samples (n = 210) of poultry carcasses and poultry products for sale at the retail market in Bulgaria were analysed for the presence of Campylobacter spp., of these 35 frozen whole carcasses, 135 chilled poultry cuts (45 wing cuts, 45 thigh cuts and 45 fillet) and 40 thermally treated (ready-to-eat) poultry products. The results obtained showed that 35.2% of the frozen poultry carcasses for sale in the markets were Campylobacter contaminated. In the chilled poultry cuts Campylobacter was isolated at the highest percentage in wing- and thigh cuts, 91.1% and 88.9%, respectively. The fillet samples were contaminated by Campylobacter in 48.9% of cases. In the chilled poultry products as well as in the frozen carcasses C. jejuni (74.8%/70.3%) was the most commonly isolated Campylobacter species, with the remainder being C. coli (25.2%/29.7%). Campylobacter spp. were not detected in the thermally treated poultry products.

Single coil bistable, bidirectional micromechanical actuator

DOEpatents

Tabat, Ned; Guckel, Henry

1998-09-15

Micromechanical actuators capable of bidirectional and bistable operation can be formed on substrates using lithographic processing techniques. Bistable operation of the microactuator is obtained using a single coil and a magnetic core with a gap. A plunger having two magnetic heads is supported for back and forth linear movement with respect to the gap in the magnetic core, and is spring biased to a neutral position in which the two heads are on each side of the gap in the core. The single electrical coil is coupled to the core and is provided with electrical current to attract one of the heads toward the core by reluctance action to drive the plunger to a limit of travel in one direction. The current is then cut off and the plunger returns by spring action toward the gap, whereafter the current is reapplied to the coil to attract the other head of the plunger by reluctance action to drive the plunger to its other limit of travel. This process can be repeated at a time when switching of the actuator is required.

Survival of Salmonella on refrigerated chicken carcasses and subsequent transfer to cutting board.

PubMed

Jiménez, S M; Tiburzi, M C; Salsi, M S; Moguilevsky, M A; Pirovani, M E

2009-06-01

To determine the effect of refrigeration time and temperature on Salmonella cell numbers on inoculated chicken carcasses and their transfer to a plastic cutting board. The survival of Salmonella on chicken skin and the transfer to a plastic cutting board when exposed to different refrigeration temperatures (2, 6 or 8 degrees C) for 9 days were the two main issues on which this work focused. Two scenarios were carried out to ascertain these effects: carcasses treated with a decontaminating acetic acid solution and untreated carcasses. All of the contaminated carcasses remained contaminated after 9 days of refrigeration. However, on untreated samples, while Salmonella numbers increased almost 1.5 log at 8 degrees C, the pathogen numbers decreased about 1 log at 2 and 6 degrees C. On acid-treated samples, cell numbers slightly decreased at all of the temperatures studied. Temperature did not affect salmonellae transfer to the cutting board, but time did. Acid decontamination increased cell numbers transferred to the cutting board compared with untreated samples. Proper refrigeration at low temperatures did not allow Salmonella numbers to rise, regardless of which carcasses had been, or had not been, acid treated. Despite the fact that the rate of transfer was not affected by temperature, the acid treatment detached Salmonella cells from the chicken skin and, therefore, the probability of greater cross-contamination should be studied further. The results of this study may provide better information about the refrigeration conditions for fresh chicken storage and also determine if these, along with acetic acid decontamination of broiler chicken, would affect the pathogen transfer to a cutting board.

Efficient bone cutting with the novel diode pumped Er:YAG laser system: in vitro investigation and optimization of the treatment parameters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stock, Karl; Diebolder, Rolf; Hausladen, Florian; Hibst, Raimund

2014-03-01

It is well known that flashlamp pumped Er:YAG lasers allow efficient bone ablation due to strong absorption at 3μm by water. Preliminary experiments revealed also a newly developed diode pumped Er:YAG laser system (Pantec Engineering AG) to be an efficient tool for use for bone surgery. The aim of the present in vitro study is the investigation of a new power increased version of the laser system with higher pulse energy and optimization of the treatment set-up to get high cutting quality, efficiency, and ablation depth. Optical simulations were performed to achieve various focus diameters and homogeneous beam profile. An appropriate experimental set-up with two different focusing units, a computer controlled linear stage with sample holder, and a shutter unit was realized. By this we are able to move the sample (slices of pig bone) with a defined velocity during the irradiation. Cutting was performed under appropriate water spray by moving the sample back and forth. After each path the ablation depth was measured and the focal plane was tracked to the actual bottom of the groove. Finally, the cuts were analyzed by light microcopy regarding the ablation quality and geometry, and thermal effects. In summary, the results show that with carefully adapted irradiation parameters narrow and deep cuts (ablation depth > 6mm, aspect ratio approx. 20) are possible without carbonization. In conclusion, these in vitro investigations demonstrate that high efficient bone cutting is possible with the diode pumped Er:YAG laser system using appropriate treatment set-up and parameters.

Oriented microtexturing on the surface of high-speed steel cutting tool

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Filippov, A. V.; Tarasov, S. Yu.; Podgornyh, O. A.; Shamarin, N. N.; Filippova, E. O.

2016-11-01

Microtexturing the metal cutting tool surfaces is a novel technique intended for enhancing the workability of these tools. The microtexturing is used in machining the titanium alloys for air-space applications for reducing the adhesion wear of metal cutting blades. This paper is focused on forming the microtextured dotted, banded and overlapped areas on the surfaces of high-speed steel samples. The treated areas have been examined using laser scanning microscopy for the microtexture pattern and roughness. It has been shown that the microtextured surfaces obtained on the high-speed steel samples were free of cracks. Surface pattern and roughness of all three microtextured areas have been examined and analyzed.

INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY EVALUATION REPORT ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

The Split Core Sampler for Submerged Sediments (Split Core Sampler) designed and fabricated by Arts Manufacturing & Supply, Inc., was demonstrated under the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Superfund Innovative Technology Evaluation Program in April and May 1999 at sites in EPA Regions 1 and 5, respectively. In addition to assessing ease of sampler operation, key objectives of the demonstration included evaluating the samplers ability to (1) consistently collect a given volume of sediment, (2) consistently collect sediment in a given depth interval, (3) collect samples with consistent characteristics from a homogenous layer of sediment, and (4) collect samples under a variety of site conditions. This report describes the demonstration results for the Split Core Sampler and two conventional samplers (the Hand Corer and Vibrocorer) used as reference samplers. During the demonstration, the Split Core Sampler performed as well as or better than the reference samplers. Based on visual observations, both the Split Core Sampler and reference samplers collected partially compressed samples of consolidated and unconsolidated sediments from the sediment surface downward; sample representativeness may be questionable because of core shortening and core compression. Sediment stratification was preserved for both consolidated and unconsolidated sediment samples collected by the Split Core Sampler and reference samplers. No sampler was able to collect samples

Study of sample drilling techniques for Mars sample return missions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mitchell, D. C.; Harris, P. T.

1980-01-01

To demonstrate the feasibility of acquiring various surface samples for a Mars sample return mission the following tasks were performed: (1) design of a Mars rover-mounted drill system capable of acquiring crystalline rock cores; prediction of performance, mass, and power requirements for various size systems, and the generation of engineering drawings; (2) performance of simulated permafrost coring tests using a residual Apollo lunar surface drill, (3) design of a rock breaker system which can be used to produce small samples of rock chips from rocks which are too large to return to Earth, but too small to be cored with the Rover-mounted drill; (4)design of sample containers for the selected regolith cores, rock cores, and small particulate or rock samples; and (5) design of sample handling and transfer techniques which will be required through all phase of sample acquisition, processing, and stowage on-board the Earth return vehicle. A preliminary design of a light-weight Rover-mounted sampling scoop was also developed.

Navigating Ethics in the Digital Age: Introducing Connected and Open Research Ethics (CORE), a Tool for Researchers and Institutional Review Boards

PubMed Central

Torous, John

2017-01-01

Research studies that leverage emerging technologies, such as passive sensing devices and mobile apps, have demonstrated encouraging potential with respect to favorably influencing the human condition. As a result, the nascent fields of mHealth and digital medicine have gained traction over the past decade as demonstrated in the United States by increased federal funding for research that cuts across a broad spectrum of health conditions. The existence of mHealth and digital medicine also introduced new ethical and regulatory challenges that both institutional review boards (IRBs) and researchers are struggling to navigate. In response, the Connected and Open Research Ethics (CORE) initiative was launched. The CORE initiative has employed a participatory research approach, whereby researchers and IRB affiliates are involved in identifying the priorities and functionality of a shared resource. The overarching goal of CORE is to develop dynamic and relevant ethical practices to guide mHealth and digital medicine research. In this Viewpoint paper, we describe the CORE initiative and call for readers to join the CORE Network and contribute to the bigger conversation on ethics in the digital age. PMID:28179216

Characterization Data Package for Containerized Sludge Samples Collected from Engineered Container SCS-CON-210

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

Fountain, Matthew S.; Fiskum, Sandra K.; Baldwin, David L.

This data package contains the K Basin sludge characterization results obtained by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory during processing and analysis of four sludge core samples collected from Engineered Container SCS-CON-210 in 2010 as requested by CH2M Hill Plateau Remediation Company. Sample processing requirements, analytes of interest, detection limits, and quality control sample requirements are defined in the KBC-33786, Rev. 2. The core processing scope included reconstitution of a sludge core sample distributed among four to six 4-L polypropylene bottles into a single container. The reconstituted core sample was then mixed and subsampled to support a variety of characterization activities. Additionalmore » core sludge subsamples were combined to prepare a container composite. The container composite was fractionated by wet sieving through a 2,000 micron mesh and a 500-micron mesh sieve. Each sieve fraction was sampled to support a suite of analyses. The core composite analysis scope included density determination, radioisotope analysis, and metals analysis, including the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant Hazardous Waste Facility Permit metals (with the exception of mercury). The container composite analysis included most of the core composite analysis scope plus particle size distribution, particle density, rheology, and crystalline phase identification. A summary of the received samples, core sample reconstitution and subsampling activities, container composite preparation and subsampling activities, physical properties, and analytical results are presented. Supporting data and documentation are provided in the appendices. There were no cases of sample or data loss and all of the available samples and data are reported as required by the Quality Assurance Project Plan/Sampling and Analysis Plan.« less

Data for four geologic test holes in the Sacramento Valley, California

USGS Publications Warehouse

Berkstresser, C.F.; French, J.J.; Schaal, M.E.

1985-01-01

The report provides geological and geophysical data for four of seven test holes drilled as a part of the Central Valley Aquifer Project, which is part of the Regional Aquifer Systems Analysis. The holes were drilled with a rotary well drilling machine to depths of 900 feet in the southwestern part of the Sacramento Valley in Solano and Yolo Counties. Geologic data for each well include lithology, texture, color, character of the contact, sorting, rounding, and cementation, determined from cuttings, cores, and sidewall covers. Fifty cores, 3 feet long, were obtained from each hole, and from eight to fourteen sidewall cores were collected. Geophysical data include a dual-induction log, spherically focused log (SFL), compensated neutron-formation density log, gamma-ray log, and a caliper log. These data are presented in four tables and on four plates. (USGS)

Method and apparatus utilizing ionizing and microwave radiation for saturation determination of water, oil and a gas in a core sample

DOEpatents

Maerefat, N.L.; Parmeswar, R.; Brinkmeyer, A.D.; Honarpour, M.

1994-08-23

A system is described for determining the relative permeabilities of gas, water and oil in a core sample has a microwave emitter/detector subsystem and an X-ray emitter/detector subsystem. A core holder positions the core sample between microwave absorbers which prevent diffracted microwaves from reaching a microwave detector where they would reduce the signal-to-noise ratio of the microwave measurements. The microwave emitter/detector subsystem and the X-ray emitter/detector subsystem each have linear calibration characteristics, allowing one subsystem to be calibrated with respect to the other subsystem. The dynamic range of microwave measurements is extended through the use of adjustable attenuators. This also facilitates the use of core samples with wide diameters. The stratification characteristics of the fluids may be observed with a windowed cell separator at the outlet of the core sample. The condensation of heavy hydrocarbon gas and the dynamic characteristics of the fluids are observed with a sight glass at the outlet of the core sample. 11 figs.

Advanced UVOIR Mirror Technology Development (AMTD) for Very Large Space Telescopes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Postman, Marc; Soummer, Remi; Sivramakrishnan, Annand; Macintosh, Bruce; Guyon, Olivier; Krist, John; Stahl, H. Philip; Smith, W. Scott; Mosier, Gary; Kirk, Charles;

76 FR 76135 - Diamond Sawblades and Parts Thereof From the People's Republic of China: Preliminary Results of...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-12-06

... plates, whether or not attached to non-steel plates, with slots. Diamond sawblade cores are manufactured... scope of the order. Circular steel plates that have a cutting edge of non-diamond material, such as external teeth that protrude from the outer diameter of the plate, whether or not finished, are excluded...

An integrated model for the natural flow regime in the Cerro Prieto hydrothermal system based upon petrological and isotope geochemical criteria

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

Elders, W.A.; Williams, A.E.; Hoagland, J..

1981-01-01

Studies of cuttings and cores at Cerro Prieto have now been extended to more than 50 boreholes. The aims of this petrological and isotopic work are to determine the shape of the reservoir, its physical properties, and its temperature distribution and flow regime before the steam field was produced.

Teachers Differ over Meeting Nonfiction Rule

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gewertz, Catherine

2013-01-01

As the common core is brought to life in classrooms this year, some English/language arts teachers are finding themselves caught in a swirl of debate about whether the new standards require them to cut back on prized pieces of the literary canon to make room for nonfiction. A recent spate of news reports has ignited a new wave of anxiety about the…

How Californians View Education Standards, Testing and Accountability: Results from the Third PACE/USC Rossier Poll

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Plank, David N.; Brewer, Dominic J.; Polikoff, Morgan; Hall, Michelle

2013-01-01

California is in the midst of sweeping education changes. The state is rolling out the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) and a new system of assessments. Voters approved a temporary statewide tax increase that will provide additional funding to schools after years of spending cuts. The Legislature adopted a new system for funding schools (the…

Core sample extractor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Akins, James; Cobb, Billy; Hart, Steve; Leaptrotte, Jeff; Milhollin, James; Pernik, Mark

1989-01-01

The problem of retrieving and storing core samples from a hole drilled on the lunar surface is addressed. The total depth of the hole in question is 50 meters with a maximum diameter of 100 millimeters. The core sample itself has a diameter of 60 millimeters and will be two meters in length. It is therefore necessary to retrieve and store 25 core samples per hole. The design utilizes a control system that will stop the mechanism at a certain depth, a cam-linkage system that will fracture the core, and a storage system that will save and catalogue the cores to be extracted. The Rod Changer and Storage Design Group will provide the necessary tooling to get into the hole as well as to the core. The mechanical design for the cam-linkage system as well as the conceptual design of the storage device are described.

Investigating the soil removal characteristics of flexible tube coring method for lunar exploration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tang, Junyue; Quan, Qiquan; Jiang, Shengyuan; Liang, Jieneng; Lu, Xiangyong; Yuan, Fengpei

2018-02-01

Compared with other technical solutions, sampling the planetary soil and returning it back to Earth may be the most direct method to seek the evidence of extraterrestrial life. To keep sample's stratification for further analyzing, a novel sampling method called flexible tube coring has been adopted for China future lunar explorations. Given the uncertain physical properties of lunar regolith, proper drilling parameters should be adjusted immediately in piercing process. Otherwise, only a small amount of core could be sampled and overload drilling faults could occur correspondingly. Due to the fact that the removed soil is inevitably connected with the cored soil, soil removal characteristics may have a great influence on both drilling loads and coring results. To comprehend the soil removal characteristics, a non-contact measurement was proposed and verified to acquire the coring and removal results accurately. Herein, further more experiments in one homogenous lunar regolith simulant were conducted, revealing that there exists a sudden core failure during the sampling process and the final coring results are determined by the penetration per revolution index. Due to the core failure, both drilling loads and soil's removal states are also affected thereby.

Mechanical behavior of Kenaf/Epoxy corrugated sandwich structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bakhori, S.; Hassan, M. Z.; Daud, Y.; Sarip, S.; Rahman, N.; Ismail, Z.; Aziz, S. A.

2015-12-01

This study presents the response of kenaf/epoxy corrugated sandwich structure during quasi-static test. Force-displacements curves have been deducted to determine the deformation pattern and collapse behavior of the structure. Kenaf/epoxy sandwich structures skins fabricated by using hand layup technique and the corrugated core were moulded by using steel mould. Different thicknesses of corrugated core web with two sizes of kenaf fibers were used. The corrugated core is then bonded with the skins by using poly-epoxy resin and has been cut into different number of cells. The specimens then tested under tensile and compression at different constant speeds until the specimens fully crushed. Tensile tests data showed the structure can be considered brittle when it breaking point strain, ε less than 0.025. In compression test, the specimens fail due to dominated by stress concentration that initiated by prior cracks. Also, the specimens with more number of cells and thicker core web have higher strength and the ability to absorb higher energy.

A Xhosa language translation of the CORE-OM using South African university student samples.

PubMed

Campbell, Megan M; Young, Charles

2016-10-01

The translation of well established psychometric tools from English into Xhosa may assist in improving access to psychological services for Xhosa speakers. The aim of this study was to translate the Clinical Outcomes in Routine Evaluation - Outcome Measure (CORE-OM), a measure of general distress and dysfunction developed in the UK, into Xhosa for use at South African university student counselling centres. The CORE-OM and embedded CORE-10 were translated into Xhosa using a five-stage translation design. This design included (a) forward-translation, (b) back-translation, (c) committee approach, (d) qualitative piloting, and (e) quantitative piloting on South African university students. Clinical and general samples were drawn from English-medium South African universities. Clinical samples were generated from university student counselling centres. General student samples were generated through random stratified cluster sampling of full-time university students. Qualitative feedback from the translation process and results from quantitative piloting of the 34-item CORE-OM English and Xhosa versions supported the reduction of the scale to 10 items. This reduced scale is referred to as the South African CORE-10 (SA CORE-10). A measurement and structural model of the SA CORE-10 English version was developed and cross-validated using an English-speaking university student sample. Equivalence of this model with the SA CORE-10 Xhosa version was investigated using a first-language Xhosa-speaking university sample. Partial measurement equivalence was achieved at the metric level. The resultant SA CORE-10 Xhosa and English versions provide core measures of distress and dysfunction. Additional, culture- and language-specific domains could be added to increase sensitivity and specificity. © The Author(s) 2016.

Simulated and Experimental Damping Properties of a SMA/Fiber Glass Laminated Composite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arnaboldi, S.; Bassani, P.; Biffi, C. A.; Tuissi, A.; Carnevale, M.; Lecis, N.; Loconte, A.; Previtali, B.

2011-07-01

In this article, an advanced laminated composite is developed, combining the high damping properties of shape memory alloy (SMA) with mechanical properties and light weight of a glass-fiber reinforced polymer. The composite is formed by stacking a glass-fiber reinforced epoxy core between two thin patterned strips of SMA alloy, and two further layers of fiber-glass reinforced epoxy. The bars of the laminated composite were assembled and cured in autoclave. The patterning was designed to enhance the interface adhesion between matrix and SMA inserts and optimally exploit the damping capacity of the SMA thin ribbons. The patterned ribbons of the SMA alloy were cut by means of a pulsed fiber laser source. Damping properties at different amplitudes on full scale samples were investigated at room temperature with a universal testing machine through dynamic tension tests, while temperature dependence was investigated by dynamic mechanical analyses (DMA) on smaller samples. Experimental results were used in conjunction with FEM analysis to optimize the geometry of the inserts. Experimental decay tests on the laminated composite have been carried out to identify the adimensional damping value related to their first flexural mode.

Powder-Collection System for Ultrasonic/Sonic Drill/Corer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sherrit, Stewart; Bar-Cohen, Yoseph; Bao, Xiaoqi; Chang, Zensheu; Blake, David; Bryson, Charles

2005-01-01

A system for collecting samples of powdered rock has been devised for use in conjunction with an ultrasonic/sonic drill/corer (USDC) -- a lightweight, lowpower apparatus designed to cut into, and acquire samples of, rock or other hard material for scientific analysis. The USDC includes a drill bit, corer, or other tool bit, in which ultrasonic and sonic vibrations are excited by an electronically driven piezoelectric actuator. The USDC advances into the rock or other material of interest by means of a hammering action and a resulting chiseling action at the tip of the tool bit. The hammering and chiseling actions are so effective that unlike in conventional twist drilling, a negligible amount of axial force is needed to make the USDC advance into the material. Also unlike a conventional twist drill, the USDC operates without need for torsional restraint, lubricant, or a sharp bit. The USDC generates powder as a byproduct of the drilling or coring process. The purpose served by the present samplecollection system is to remove the powder from the tool-bit/rock interface and deliver the powder to one or more designated location(s) for analysis or storage

Epidemiological study of hepatitis B virus among prisoners with active tuberculosis in Central Brazil.

PubMed

Iglecias, L M M; Puga, M A M; Pompílio, M A; Teles, S A; Croda, J; Lima, L A; Lago, B V; Martins, R M B; Motta-Castro, A R C

2016-11-01

Due to environmental and social conditions inherent to incarceration, tuberculosis (TB) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) are major diseases among prison inmates. To determine overall and occult HBV infection (OBI) prevalence rates, risk factors and genotype distribution among inmates with active TB. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 216 inmates with active TB recruited at the largest prisons in Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Central Brazil. The participants were interviewed and tested for the presence of serological markers for HBV infection. The overall prevalence of HBV infection (total hepatitis B core antibodies) was 10.2% (95%CI 6.2-14.2). HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) prevalence was 1.4% (3/216). HBV DNA was detected in all three HBsAg-positive samples and in 10.5% (2/19) of the anti-HBc-positive samples (OBI), giving a HBV-TB co-infection prevalence of 2.3% (5/216). A multivariate analysis of risk factors showed that history of sharing cutting instruments, length of incarceration and homosexual sex were associated with HBV infection. Our findings indicate that HBV remains an important public health concern among prison inmates and active TB-HBV co-infection needs to be addressed for effective treatment.

Geochemistry of Eagle Ford group source rocks and oils from the first shot field area, Texas

USGS Publications Warehouse

Edman, Janell D.; Pitman, Janet K.; Hammes, Ursula

2010-01-01

Total organic carbon, Rock-Eval pyrolysis, and vitrinite reflectance analyses performed on Eagle Ford Group core and cuttings samples from the First Shot field area, Texas demonstrate these samples have sufficient quantity, quality, and maturity of organic matter to have generated oil. Furthermore, gas chromatography and biomarker analyses performed on Eagle Ford Group oils and source rock extracts as well as weight percent sulfur analyses on the oils indicate the source rock facies for most of the oils are fairly similar. Specifically, these source rock facies vary in lithology from shales to marls, contain elevated levels of sulfur, and were deposited in a marine environment under anoxic conditions. It is these First Shot Eagle Ford source facies that have generated the oils in the First Shot Field. However, in contrast to the generally similar source rock facies and organic matter, maturity varies from early oil window to late oil window in the study area, and these maturity variations have a pronounced effect on both the source rock and oil characteristics. Finally, most of the oils appear to have been generated locally and have not experienced long distance migration. 

Enrichment of 57Fe isotope in neutron flux of nuclear reactors observed by Mössbauer spectroscopy.

PubMed

Sawicki, Jerzy A

2018-02-01

The abundance of 57 Fe isotope in nuclear reactor core materials can be considerably enriched by neutron-capture 56 Fe(n,γ) reactions. This is demonstrated using the sections of Zr-2.5 wt.%Nb pressure tubes removed from two CANDU* reactors. The tubes contained 0.11 and 0.04wt% Fe and were irradiated for about 10 effective full power years (EFPY) up to ~10 26 n/m 2 fast neutron (E > 1MeV) fluencies. The Mössbauer spectra of 57 Fe in irradiated samples indicated up to 10 times larger areas than unirradiated off-cuts from the same pressure tubes. The observed effect is in accord with the values calculated for known thermal neutron-capture cross-sections and resonance capture integrals, neutron flux profiles and spectra, and times of irradiation. The build-up of 57 Fe facilitated recording Mössbauer absorption spectra of alloys with minor amount of Fe down to ~ 400ppm, despite intense background radiation emitted by samples. These findings can open new possibilities in post-irradiation studies of alloys used in nuclear reactors and in other objects subjected to large neutron fluencies. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Enhancement of the sweep efficiency of waterflooding operations by the in-situ microbial population of petroleum reservoirs

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

Brown, L.R.; Vadie, A.A.; Stephens, J.O.

1995-12-31

Live cores were obtained from five reservoirs using special precautions to prevent contamination by exogenous microorganisms and minimize exposure to oxygen. The depths from which the cores were obtained ranged from 2,705 ft to 6,568 ft. Core plugs were cut radially from live cores, encased in heat-shrink plastic tubes, placed in core holders, and fitted with inlets and outlets. Nutrient additions stimulated the in-situ microbial population to increase, dissolve stratal material, produce gases, and release oil. Reduction in flow through the core plugs was observed in some cases, while in other cases flow was increased, probably due to the dissolutionmore » of carbonates in the formation. A field demonstration of the ability of the in-situ microbial population to increase oil recovery by blocking the more permeable zones of the reservoir is currently underway. This demonstration is being conducted in the North Blowhorn Creek Unit situated in Lamar County, Alabama. Live cores were obtained from a newly drilled well in the field and tested as described above. The field project involves four test patterns each including one injector, four to five producers, and a comparable control injector with its four to five producers. Nutrient injection in the field began November 1994.« less

Mitigating cutting-induced plasticity in the contour method, Part 2: Numerical analysis

DOE PAGES

Muránsky, O.; Hamelin, C. J.; Hosseinzadeh, F.; ...

2016-02-10

Cutting-induced plasticity can have a significant effect on the measurement accuracy of the contour method. The present study examines the benefit of a double-embedded cutting configuration that relies on self-restraint of the specimen, relative to conventional edge-crack cutting configurations. A series of finite element analyses are used to simulate the planar sectioning performed during double-embedded and conventional edge-crack contour cutting configurations. The results of numerical analyses are first compared to measured results to validate the cutting simulations. The simulations are then used to compare the efficacy of different cutting configurations by predicting the deviation of the residual stress profile frommore » an original (pre-cutting) reference stress field, and the extent of cutting-induced plasticity. Comparisons reveal that while the double-embedded cutting configuration produces the most accurate residual stress measurements, the highest levels of plastic flow are generated in this process. As a result, this cutting-induced plastic deformation is, however, largely confined to small ligaments formed as a consequence of the sample sectioning process, and as such it does not significantly affect the back-calculated residual stress field.« less

Deformation of products cut on AWJ x-y tables and its suppression

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hlaváč, L. M.; Hlaváčová, I. M.; Plančár, Š.; Krenický, T.; Geryk, V.

2018-02-01

The aim of this study is namely investigation of the abrasive water jet (AWJ) cutting of column pieces on commercial x-y cutting machines with AWJ. The shape deformation in curved and/or stepped parts of cutting trajectories caused by both the trailback (declination angle) and the taper (inclination of cut walls) can be calculated from submitted analytical model. Some of the results were compared with data measured on samples cut on two types of commercial tables. The main motivation of this investigation is determination of the percentage difference between predicted and real distortion of cutting product, i.e. accuracy of prepared analytical model. Subsequently, the possibility of reduction of the distortion can be studied through implementation of the theoretical model into the control systems of the cutting machines with the system for cutting head tilting. Despite some limitations of the used AWJ machines the comparison of calculated dimensions with the real ones shows very good correlation of model and experimental data lying within the range of measurement uncertainty. Results on special device demonstrated that the shape deformation in curved parts of the cutting trajectory can be substantially reduced through tilting of the cutting head.

Vapor-melt Ratio in Laser Fine Cutting of Slot Arrays

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

Wang Xuyue; Meng Qingxuan; Kang Renke

In order to improve cut quality for slot arrays, a new method of laser fine cutting under the consideration of the ratio of vapor to melt is presented. Laser cutting of 6063 aluminum alloy sheet, 0.5 mm in thickness, was carried out on a JK701H Nd:YAG pulse laser cutting system. The effects of vapor-melt ratio on kerf width, surface roughness and recast layer were studied which relate cutting qualities. Observation on the cut samples with different vapor-melt ratios (0.687, 1.574, 3.601 varied with laser power increasing, and 1.535, 3.601, 7.661 with decreasing of beam cutting speed) shows that high vapor-meltmore » ratio improves laser cut quality clearly. Kerf width 0.2 mm of smooth area on kerf top area and thickness 2.03 {mu}m of recast layer are obtained. No dross was found on the kerf bottom and the percentage of the smooth area is up to 40% out of whole kerf side. The research on vapor-melt ratio provides a deeper understanding of laser cutting and improves laser cut quality effectively.« less

Mitigating cutting-induced plasticity in the contour method, Part 2: Numerical analysis

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

Muránsky, O.; Hamelin, C. J.; Hosseinzadeh, F.

Cutting-induced plasticity can have a significant effect on the measurement accuracy of the contour method. The present study examines the benefit of a double-embedded cutting configuration that relies on self-restraint of the specimen, relative to conventional edge-crack cutting configurations. A series of finite element analyses are used to simulate the planar sectioning performed during double-embedded and conventional edge-crack contour cutting configurations. The results of numerical analyses are first compared to measured results to validate the cutting simulations. The simulations are then used to compare the efficacy of different cutting configurations by predicting the deviation of the residual stress profile frommore » an original (pre-cutting) reference stress field, and the extent of cutting-induced plasticity. Comparisons reveal that while the double-embedded cutting configuration produces the most accurate residual stress measurements, the highest levels of plastic flow are generated in this process. As a result, this cutting-induced plastic deformation is, however, largely confined to small ligaments formed as a consequence of the sample sectioning process, and as such it does not significantly affect the back-calculated residual stress field.« less

Penetrator Coring Apparatus for Cometary Surfaces

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Braun, David F.; Heinrich, Michael; Ai, Huirong Anita; Ahrens, Thomas J.

2004-01-01

Touch and go impact coring is an attractive technique for sampling cometary nuclei and asteroidal surface on account of the uncertain strength properties and low surface gravities of these objects. Initial coring experiments in low temperature (approx. 153K polycrystalline ice) and porous rock demonstrate that simultaneous with impact coring, measurements of both the penetration strength and constraints on the frictional properties of surface materials can be obtained upon core penetration and core sample extraction. The method of sampling an asteroid, to be deployed, on the now launched MUSES-C mission, employs a small gun device that fires into the asteroid and the resulted impact ejecta is collected for return to Earth. This technique is well suited for initial sampling in a very low gravity environment and deployment depends little on asteroid surface mechanical properties. Since both asteroids and comets are believed to have altered surface properties a simple sampling apparatus that preserves stratigraphic information, such as impact coring is an attractive alternate to impact ejecta collection.

Herbivorous insect response to group selection cutting in a southeastern bottomland hardwood forest

Treesearch

Michael D. Ulyshen; James L. Hanula; Scott Horn; John C. Kilgo; Christopher E. Moorman

2005-01-01

Malaise and pitfall traps were used to sample herbivorous insects in canopy gaps created by group-selection cutting in a bottomland hardwood forest in South Carolina. The traps were placed at the centers, edges, and in the forest adjacent to gaps of different sizes (0.13, 0.26, and 0.50 ha) and ages (1 and 7 yr old) during four sampling periods in 2001. Overall, the...

Near Real-Time Prospecting for Lunar Volatiles: Demonstrating RESOLVE Science in the Field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elphic, R. C.; Colaprete, A.; Heldmann, J. L.; Mattes, G.; Ennico, K.; Sanders, G. B.; Quinn, J.; Fritzler, E.; Marinova, M.; Roush, T. L.; Stoker, C.; Larson, W.; Picard, M.; McMurray, R.; Morse, S.

2012-12-01

The Regolith and Environment Science and Oxygen & Lunar Volatile Extraction (RESOLVE) project aims to demonstrate the utility of "in situ resource utilization". In situ resource utilization (ISRU) is a way to rebalance the economics of spaceflight by reducing or eliminating materials that must be brought up from Earth and placed on the surface of the Moon for human use. RESOLVE is developing a rover-borne payload that (1) can locate near subsurface volatiles, (2) excavate and analyze samples of the volatile-bearing regolith, and (3) demonstrate the form, extractability and usefulness of the materials. Such investigations are important not only for ISRU but are also critically important for understanding the scientific nature of these intriguing lunar polar volatile deposits. Temperature models and orbital data suggest near surface volatile concentrations may exist at briefly lit lunar polar locations outside persistently shadowed regions. A lunar rover could be remotely operated at some of these locations for the 4-7 days of expected sunlight at relatively low cost. In July 2012 the RESOLVE project conducted a full-scale field demonstration. In particular, the ability to perform the real-time measurement analysis necessary to search for volatiles and the ability to combine the various measurement techniques to meet the mission measurement and science goals. With help from the Pacific International Space Center for Exploration Systems (PISCES), a lunar rover prototype (provided by the Canadian Space Agency) was equipped with prospecting instruments (neutron spectrometer and near-infrared spectrometer), subsurface access and sampling tools, including both an auger and coring drill (provided by CSA) and subsurface sample analysis instrumentation, including a sample oven system, the Oxygen and Volatile Extraction Node (OVEN), and Gas Chromatograph / Mass Spectrometer system, the Lunar Advanced Volatile Analysis (LAVA) system. Given the relatively short time period this lunar mission is being designed to, prospecting needs to occur in near real-time. The two prospecting instruments are the neutron and NIR spectrometers. In the field demo a small radioactive source was provided the neutron flux. The NIR spectrometer, which includes its own light source, looks at surface reflectance for signatures of bound H2O/OH and general mineralogy. Once a "hot spot" was found by the prospecting instruments, the drill could either auger or core. The auger drill worked to a depth of 50 cm and is monitored with a drill camera and the NIR spectrometer. As cuttings are brought up the NIR spectra is monitored. If a particular location is considered of high-interest then the decision to core could be made. The coring drill (a push-tube) allowed a 1-meter sample to be acquired processed by the OVEN/LAVA sys-tem. This presentation will provide details as how these instruments worked together and how and if the planned measurements and science was obtained.

Near Real Time Prospecting for Lunar Volatiles: Demonstrating RESOLVE Science in the Field

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Elphic, Richard; Colaprete, Anthony; Heldmann, Jennifer; Mattes, Gregory W.; Ennico, Kimberly; Sanders, Gerald; Quinn, Jacqueline; Tegnerud, Erin Leigh; Marinova, Margarita; Larson, William E.;

Metagenome enrichment approach used for selection of oil-degrading bacteria consortia for drill cutting residue bioremediation.

PubMed

Guerra, Alaine B; Oliveira, Jorge S; Silva-Portela, Rita C B; Araújo, Wydemberg; Carlos, Aline C; Vasconcelos, Ana Tereza R; Freitas, Ana Teresa; Domingos, Yldeney Silva; de Farias, Mirna Ferreira; Fernandes, Glauber José Turolla; Agnez-Lima, Lucymara F

2018-04-01

Drill cuttings leave behind thousands of tons of residues without adequate treatment, generating a large environmental liability. Therefore knowledge about the microbial community of drilling residue may be useful for developing bioremediation strategies. In this work, samples of drilling residue were enriched in different culture media in the presence of petroleum, aiming to select potentially oil-degrading bacteria and biosurfactant producers. Total DNA was extracted directly from the drill cutting samples and from two enriched consortia and sequenced using the Ion Torrent platform. Taxonomic analysis revealed the predominance of Proteobacteria in the metagenome from the drill cuttings, while Firmicutes was enriched in consortia samples. Functional analysis using the Biosurfactants and Biodegradation Database (BioSurfDB) revealed a similar pattern among the three samples regarding hydrocarbon degradation and biosurfactants production pathways. However, some statistical differences were observed between samples. Namely, the pathways related to the degradation of fatty acids, chloroalkanes, and chloroalkanes were enriched in consortia samples. The degradation colorimetric assay using dichlorophenolindophenol as an indicator was positive for several hydrocarbon substrates. The consortia were also able to produce biosurfactants, with biosynthesis of iturin, lichnysin, and surfactin among the more abundant pathways. A microcosms assay followed by gas chromatography analysis showed the efficacy of the consortia in degrading alkanes, as we observed a reduction of around 66% and 30% for each consortium in total alkanes. These data suggest the potential use of these consortia in the bioremediation of drilling residue based on autochthonous bioaugmentation. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Adolescents' non-core food intake: a description of what, where and with whom adolescents consume non-core foods.

PubMed

Toumpakari, Zoi; Haase, Anne M; Johnson, Laura

2016-06-01

Little is known about adolescents' non-core food intake in the UK and the eating context in which they consume non-core foods. The present study aimed to describe types of non-core foods consumed by British adolescents in total and across different eating contexts. A descriptive analysis, using cross-sectional data from food diaries. Non-core foods were classified based on cut-off points of fat and sugar from the Australian Guide to Healthy Eating. Eating context was defined as 'where' and 'with whom' adolescents consumed each food. Percentages of non-core energy were calculated for each food group in total and across eating contexts. A combined ranking was then created to account for each food's contribution to non-core energy intake and its popularity of consumption (percentage of consumers). The UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey 2008-2011. Adolescents across the UK aged 11-18 years (n 666). Non-core food comprised 39·5 % of total energy intake and was mostly 'Regular soft drinks', 'Crisps & savoury snacks', 'Chips & potato products', 'Chocolate' and 'Biscuits'. Adolescents ate 57·0 % and 51·3 % of non-core food at 'Eateries' or with 'Friends', compared with 33·2 % and 32·1 % at 'Home' or with 'Parents'. Persistent foods consumed across eating contexts were 'Regular soft drinks' and 'Chips & potato products'. Regular soft drinks contribute the most energy and are the most popular non-core food consumed by adolescents regardless of context, and represent a good target for interventions to reduce non-core food consumption.

Role of CT scanning in formation evaluation

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

Bergosh, J.L.; Dibona, B.G.

1988-01-01

The use of the computerized tomographic (CT) scanner in formation evaluation of difficult to analyze core samples has moved from the research and development phase to daily, routine use in the core-analysis laboratory. The role of the CT scanner has become increasingly important as geologists try to obtain more representative core material for accurate formation evaluation. The most common problem facing the core analyst when preparing to measure petrophysical properties is the selection of representative and unaltered core samples for routine and special core testing. Recent data have shown that heterogeneous reservoir rock can be very difficult, if not impossible,more » to assess correctly when using standard core examination procedures, because many features, such as fractures, are not visible on the core surface. Another problem is the invasion of drilling mud into the core sample. Flushing formation oil and water from the core can greatly alter the saturation and distribution of fluids and lead to serious formation evaluation problems. Because the quality and usefulness of the core date are directly tied to proper sample selection, it has become imperative that the CT scanner be used whenever possible.« less

Energy Efficient Engine acoustic supporting technology report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lavin, S. P.; Ho, P. Y.

1985-01-01

The acoustic development of the Energy Efficient Engine combined testing and analysis using scale model rigs and an integrated Core/Low Spool demonstration engine. The scale model tests show that a cut-on blade/vane ratio fan with a large spacing (S/C = 2.3) is as quiet as a cut-off blade/vane ratio with a tighter spacing (S/C = 1.27). Scale model mixer tests show that separate flow nozzles are the noisiest, conic nozzles the quietest, with forced mixers in between. Based on projections of ICLS data the Energy Efficient Engine (E3) has FAR 36 margins of 3.7 EPNdB at approach, 4.5 EPNdB at full power takeoff, and 7.2 EPNdB at sideline conditions.

Revisiting the Phadia/EliA cut-off values for anticardiolipin and anti-β2-glycoprotein I antibodies: a systematic evaluation according to the guidelines.

PubMed

Bor, M V; Jacobsen, I-L Søtang; Gram, J B; Sidelmann, J J

2018-01-01

Background Phadia/EliA fluorescence enzyme immunoassays are widely used automated assays for anticardiolipin (aCL) and anti-β2-glycoprotein I (aβ2GPI) antibodies. To date, cut-off values for these assays have not been evaluated systematically and the evidence behind manufacturer's recommended cut-off values is not clear. Objective To determine Phadia/EliA cut-off values for antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) according to the procedures suggested by guidelines. Methods A total of 266 blood donors (135 females and 131 males) were included. The pre-handling and analysis of the samples were performed according to the International Society on Thrombosis and Hemostasis (ISTH) guideline for solid phase aPL assays. Cut-off values and corresponding 90% confidence intervals (CI) for each antibody were established and outliers were handled according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guideline for reference intervals. Samples from 377 consecutive patients, referred to our thrombophilia center with evidence of thrombosis or pregnancy morbidity were included for aPL testing. Results The in-house 99th (97.5th) percentile cut-off values were 11 (8.7), 12 (6.9) 8.5 (5.0) AU/mL for aβ2GPI IgG, IgM and IgA, and 21 (13) GPL-U/mL and 41 (25) MPL-U/mL for aCL IgG and IgM, respectively. The prevalence of positive results (%) defined by these cut-off values in patients with evidence of thrombosis or pregnancy morbidity was 9.5 (12.2), 1.6 (2.9), and 7.0 (9.9), and 0.8 (3.8) for aβ2GPI IgG, IgM, and aCL IgG and IgM respectively. The use of in-house 99th percentile cut-off values compared to the manufacturer suggested cut-off values resulted in 1 and 39 fewer samples for aβ2GPI and aCL to be classified as positive for aPL, respectively. Conclusions We present Phadia/EliA cut-off values with 90% CI for aPL determined systematically according to the ISTH and CLSI guidelines. These values are different from values previously determined, suggesting variation of aPLs in different populations. Our findings indicate the need for each laboratory to determine/validate assay specific cut-off values for aPL.

ROPEC - ROtary PErcussive Coring Drill for Mars Sample Return

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chu, Philip; Spring, Justin; Zacny, Kris

2014-01-01

The ROtary Percussive Coring Drill is a light weight, flight-like, five-actuator drilling system prototype designed to acquire core material from rock targets for the purposes of Mars Sample Return. In addition to producing rock cores for sample caching, the ROPEC drill can be integrated with a number of end effectors to perform functions such as rock surface abrasion, dust and debris removal, powder and regolith acquisition, and viewing of potential cores prior to caching. The ROPEC drill and its suite of end effectors have been demonstrated with a five degree of freedom Robotic Arm mounted to a mobility system with a prototype sample cache and bit storage station.

Experimental investigation of edge hardening and edge cracking sensitivity of burr-free parts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Senn, Sergei; Liewald, Mathias

2018-05-01

This experimental study is focused on characterisation of edge hardening of sheet metal and remaining formability of differently prepared cutted edges. Edge cracking sensitivity of counter cutted, shear cutted, recutted and water-jet cutted components are compared and evaluated. Subsequently, edge hardening and hole expansion ratio were correlated for material HC420 LA with sheet thickness of t = 2 mm. As other studies show, the cutting edge surface quality influences the hole expansion ratio: a high clear cut surface increases formability of cutting edges, whereas micro cracks and rough surfaces result into a large fracture surface, which impact remaining formability noticeably. Thus, cutting edges with lower edge hardening behaviour in conjunction with a higher clear cut surface exhibit higher hole expansion ratios. Counter cutting and the recutting do show a similar effect on edge hardening. Using the hole expansion test, it was possible to prove that counter cutted components show a significantly lower edge cracking sensitivity in comparison to conventionally shear cutted components. The hole expansion ratio of counter cutted specimens looks balanced and is comparable to the hole expansion ratio measured from specimens with recutted or water jet cutted edges. The significant difference of the investigated cutting processes is characterized by size of clear cutting area. This area of recutted edges emerges larger than the area of counter cutted specimens, which evidently leads to an increased hole expansion ratio of recutted specimens compared to conventionally shear cutted ones. However, it is important to note that the hole expansion ratio of counter cutted and recutted specimens appear fairly balanced, but counter cutted samples indeed can be produced burr-free. Using counter cutting technology, it is possible to produce burr free surfaces with high edge formability.

Relative abundance and species richness of cerambycid beetles in partial cut and uncut bottomland hardwood forests

USGS Publications Warehouse

Newell, P.; King, S.

2009-01-01

Partial cutting techniques are increasingly advocated and used to create habitat for priority wildlife. However, partial cutting may or may not benefit species dependent on deadwood; harvesting can supplement coarse woody debris in the form of logging slash, but standing dead trees may be targeted for removal. We sampled cerambycid beetles during the spring and summer of 2006 and 2007 with canopy malaise traps in 1- and 2-year-old partial cut and uncut bottomland hardwood forests of Louisiana. We captured a total of 4195 cerambycid beetles representing 65 species. Relative abundance was higher in recent partial cuts than in uncut controls and with more dead trees in a plot. Total species richness and species composition were not different between treatments. The results suggest partial cuts with logging slash left on site increase the abundance of cerambycid beetles in the first few years after partial cutting and that both partial cuts and uncut forest should be included in the bottomland hardwood forest landscape.

Efficacy of different washing solutions and contact times on the microbial quality and safety of fresh-cut paprika.

PubMed

Das, B Kumar; Kim, Ji Gang; Choi, Ji Weon

2011-10-01

The role of different washing solutions and contact times was investigated to determine their use as potential sanitizers for maintaining the microbial quality and food safety of fresh-cut paprika. Samples were cut into small pieces, washed for both 90 and 180 s by different washing solutions: tap water, chlorinated water (100 mg/L and pH 6.5-7), electrolyzed water (pH 7.2) and ozonized water (4 mg/L). Then, samples were packaged in 50 µm polypropylene bags and stored at 5 °C for 12 days, followed by an evaluation of the antimicrobial efficacy of the treatments. Various quality and safety parameters, such as gas composition, color, off-odor, electrical conductivity and microbial numbers, were evaluated during storage. Results revealed insignificant differences in gas composition, and no off-odor was observed in any of the samples during the storage period. However, longer contact time resulted in slightly lower hue angle value than a short one for all washing solutions. Moreover, samples washed with ozone washings showed lower electrolyte leakage than other washing solutions. Samples washed for longer contact time except those washed in ozonized water showed increased microbial numbers during storage. Hence, it has been concluded that longer contact time with ozone has positive effects, whereas the other washing solutions adversely affect the microbial quality and safety aspects of fresh-cut paprika.

Orthogonal cutting of cancellous bone with application to the harvesting of bone autograft.

PubMed

Malak, Sharif F F; Anderson, Iain A

2008-07-01

Autogenous bone graft harvesting results in cell death within the graft and trauma at the donor site. The latter can be mitigated by using minimally invasive tools and techniques, while cell morbidity may be reduced by improving cutter design and cutting parameters. We have performed orthogonal cutting experiments on bovine cancellous bone samples, to gain a basic understanding of the cutting mechanism and to determine design guidelines for tooling. Measurements were performed at cutting speeds from 11.2 to 5000 mm/min, with tool rake angles of 23 degrees, 45 degrees and 60 degrees, and depths of cut in the range of 0.1-3.0 mm. Horizontal and vertical cutting forces were measured, and the chip formation process video recorded. Continuous chip formation was observed for rake angles of 45 degrees and 60 degrees , and depths of cut greater than 0.8 mm. Chip formation for depths of cut greater than 1.0 mm was accompanied by bone marrow extruding out of the free surfaces and away from the rake face. Specific cutting energies decreased with increasing rake angle, increasing depth of cut and increasing cutting speed. Our orthogonal cutting experiments showed that a rake angle of 60 degrees and a depth of cut of 1mm, will avoid excessive fragmentation, keep specific cutting energy low and promote bone marrow extrusion, which may be beneficial for cell survival. We demonstrate how drill bit clearance angle and feed rate can be calculated facilitating a 1mm depth of cut.

3D characterization of crack propagation in building stones

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fusi, N.; Martinez-Martinez, J.; Crosta, G. B.

2012-04-01

Opening of fractures can strongly modify mechanical characteristics of natural stones and thus significantly decrease stability of historical and modern buildings. It is commonly thought that fractures origin from pre-existing structures of the rocks, such as pores, veins, stylolythes (Meng and Pan, 2007; Yang et al., 2008). The aim of this study is to define relationships between crack formation and textural characteristics in massive carbonate lithologies and to follow the evolution of fractures with loading. Four well known Spanish building limestones and dolostones have been analysed: Amarillo Triana (AT): a yellow dolomitic marble, with fissures filled up by calcite and Fe oxides or hydroxides; Blanco Tranco (BT): a homogeneous white calcitic marble with pore clusters orientated parallel to metamorphic foliation; Crema Valencia (CV): a pinkish limestone (mudstone), characterized by abundant stilolythes, filled mainly by quartz (80%) and kaolin (11%); Rojo Cehegin (RC): a red fossiliferous limestone (packstone) with white veins, made up exclusively by calcite in crystals up to 300 micron. All lithotypes are characterized by homogeneous mineralogical composition (calcitic or dolomitic) and low porosity (<10%). Three cores 20 mm in diameter have been obtained for each lithotype. Uniaxial compressive tests have been carried out in order to induce sample fracturing by a series of successive steps with application of a progressive normal stress. Crack propagation has been checked after each stress level application by microCT-RX following Hg impregnation of the sample (in a Hg porosimeter). Combination of both tests (microCT-RX and Hg porosimeter) guarantees a better characterization of small defects and their progressive propagation inside low-porous rocks than by employing solely microCT-RX (Fusi et al., 2009). Due to the reduced dimensions of sample holder (dilatometers) in porosimeter, cores have been cut with a non standard h/d = 1.5. Several cycles of: a) Hg impregnation with mercury porosimeter, b) scanning with microCT system, c) uniaxial compression, have been performed on each core. Cores have been firstly impregnated with mercury in Thermo Fisher Scientific Pascal porosimeters 140 and 240, in order to fill up the pores and obtain a good density contrast between rock matrix (2.71 g/cm3 for calcite and 2.86 g/cm3 for dolomite) and voids filled by mercury (13.6 g/cm3). Microporosity coincides with structural features of the rock, such as stylolythes (CV), fissures (AT), clusters of pores (BT) and/or veins (RC). At the end of each cycle of impregnation-scanning-loading, the cores have been impregnated again in both porosimeters 140 and 240 in order to fill up the new micro cracks and fractures. Uniaxial compression has been performed with a GDS Vis (Virtual Infinite Stiffness) loading apparatus, in axial displacement control. For each core four to six loading steps have been performed on the basis of the maximum loading obtained in previous uniaxial tests on standard cores of the same lithologies. Once the maximum load of each step has been achieved, the specimen has been unloaded at the same velocity. A BIR Actis 130/150 industrial micro CT was used for imaging the interior of the samples (100keV/80mA). The dimensions of the voxel, corresponding to the resolution of the images, are 0.024x0.024x0.027 mm. Core position has been accurately checked in order to maintain the same orientation and numbering of CT slices throughout the cores after different loading cycles. The main results of this study, clearly imaged by microCT scanning, can be summed up as follows: - in all the lithotypes (AT, BT, CV and RC) fracture patterns are unrelated to major textural characters of the rock (fig. 1). - In all the cases, first phases of fracture opening can be seen in CT images but there is not a corresponding load drop in the stress-strain curve. - For all the samples, fractures begin to open at about 50% or less of the maximum load.

A sample-freezing drive shoe for a wire line piston core sampler

USGS Publications Warehouse

Murphy, F.; Herkelrath, W.N.

1996-01-01

Loss of fluids and samples during retrieval of cores of saturated, noncohesive sediments results in incorrect measures of fluid distributions and an inaccurate measure of the stratigraphic position of the sample. To reduce these errors, we developed a hollow drive shoe that freezes in place the lowest 3 inches (75 mm) of a 1.88-inch-diameter (48 mm), 5-foot-long (1.5 m) sediment sample taken using a commercial wire line piston core sampler. The end of the core is frozen by piping liquid carbon dioxide at ambient temperature through a steel tube from a bottle at the land surface to the drive shoe where it evaporates and expands, cooling the interior surface of the shoe to about -109??F (-78??C). Freezing a core end takes about 10 minutes. The device was used to collect samples for a study of oil-water-air distributions, and for studies of water chemistry and microbial activity in unconsolidated sediments at the site of an oil spill near Bemidji, Minnesota. Before freezing was employed, samples of sandy sediments from near the water table sometimes flowed out of the core barrel as the sampler was withdrawn. Freezing the bottom of the core allowed for the retention of all material that entered the core barrel and lessened the redistribution of fluids within the core. The device is useful in the unsaturated and shallow saturated zones, but does not freeze cores well at depths greater than about 20 feet (6 m) below water, possibly because the feed tube plugs with dry ice with increased exhaust back-pressure, or because sediment enters the annulus between the core barrel and the core barrel liner and blocks the exhaust.

Pesticide Residues on Three Cut Flower Species and Potential Exposure of Florists in Belgium.

PubMed

Toumi, Khaoula; Vleminckx, Christiane; van Loco, Joris; Schiffers, Bruno

2016-09-23

In order to assess the prevalence of pesticide contamination and the risk of florists' exposure when handling cut flowers, sampling and analysis of 90 bouquets of the most commonly sold cut flowers in Belgium (50 bouquets of roses; 20 of gerberas, and 20 of chrysanthemums) were carried out. The bouquets were collected from 50 florists located in the seven largest cities of Belgium (Antwerp, Brussels, Charleroi, Ghent, Leuven, Liege, and Namur) and from five supermarkets located in the different regions. To have a better understanding of the route of exposure and professional practices a questionnaire was also addressed to a group of 25 florists who volunteered to take part in the survey. All florists were interviewed individually when collecting the questionnaire. The residual pesticide deposit values on cut flowers were determined in an accredited laboratory using a multi-residue (QuEChERS Quick Easy Cheap Effective Rugged Safe) method and a combination of gas chromatography (GC) and liquid chormatograhphy (LC) analysis. A total of 107 active substances were detected from all samples; i.e., an average of about 10 active substances per bouquet. The most severely contaminated bouquet accumulated a total concentration of residues up to 97 mg/kg. Results show that roses are the most contaminated cut flowers; with an average of 14 substances detected per sample and a total concentration per rose sample of 26 mg/kg. Some active substances present an acute toxicity (acephate, methiocarb, monocrotophos, methomyl, deltamethrin, etc.) and exposure can generate a direct effect on the nervous system of florists. Nevertheless, fungicides (dodemorph, propamocarb, and procymidone) were the most frequently detected in samples and had the highest maximum concentrations out of all the active substances analysed. Dodemorph was the most frequently detected substance with the highest maximum concentration (41.9 mg/kg) measured in the rose samples. It appears from the survey that, despite being exposed to high deposits of residues, florists usually do not protect themselves from contact with residues even if they spend several hours handling cut flowers and preparing bouquets (from 2 to 6 h/day, depending on the time of year and/or selling periods) daily. Bad habits (eating, drinking, or smoking at work) and absence of personal protective equipment of most florists also increase the risk of contact with pesticide residues.

Pesticide Residues on Three Cut Flower Species and Potential Exposure of Florists in Belgium

PubMed Central

Toumi, Khaoula; Vleminckx, Christiane; van Loco, Joris; Schiffers, Bruno

2016-01-01

In order to assess the prevalence of pesticide contamination and the risk of florists’ exposure when handling cut flowers, sampling and analysis of 90 bouquets of the most commonly sold cut flowers in Belgium (50 bouquets of roses; 20 of gerberas, and 20 of chrysanthemums) were carried out. The bouquets were collected from 50 florists located in the seven largest cities of Belgium (Antwerp, Brussels, Charleroi, Ghent, Leuven, Liege, and Namur) and from five supermarkets located in the different regions. To have a better understanding of the route of exposure and professional practices a questionnaire was also addressed to a group of 25 florists who volunteered to take part in the survey. All florists were interviewed individually when collecting the questionnaire. The residual pesticide deposit values on cut flowers were determined in an accredited laboratory using a multi-residue (QuEChERS Quick Easy Cheap Effective Rugged Safe) method and a combination of gas chromatography (GC) and liquid chormatograhphy (LC) analysis. A total of 107 active substances were detected from all samples; i.e., an average of about 10 active substances per bouquet. The most severely contaminated bouquet accumulated a total concentration of residues up to 97 mg/kg. Results show that roses are the most contaminated cut flowers; with an average of 14 substances detected per sample and a total concentration per rose sample of 26 mg/kg. Some active substances present an acute toxicity (acephate, methiocarb, monocrotophos, methomyl, deltamethrin, etc.) and exposure can generate a direct effect on the nervous system of florists. Nevertheless, fungicides (dodemorph, propamocarb, and procymidone) were the most frequently detected in samples and had the highest maximum concentrations out of all the active substances analysed. Dodemorph was the most frequently detected substance with the highest maximum concentration (41.9 mg/kg) measured in the rose samples. It appears from the survey that, despite being exposed to high deposits of residues, florists usually do not protect themselves from contact with residues even if they spend several hours handling cut flowers and preparing bouquets (from 2 to 6 h/day, depending on the time of year and/or selling periods) daily. Bad habits (eating, drinking, or smoking at work) and absence of personal protective equipment of most florists also increase the risk of contact with pesticide residues. PMID:27669276

Characteristics and time-dependence of cut marks and blunt force fractures on costal cartilages: an experimental study.

PubMed

Spagnoli, Laura; Amadasi, Alberto; Frustaci, Michela; Mazzarelli, Debora; Porta, Davide; Cattaneo, Cristina

2016-03-01

The distinction between cut marks and blunt force injuries on costal cartilages is a crucial issue in the forensic field. Moreover, a correct distinction may further be complicated by decomposition, so the need arises to investigate the distinctive features of lesions on cartilage and their changes over time. This study aimed to assess the stereomicroscopic features of cut marks (performed with six different knives) and blunt fractures (performed with a hammer and by means of manual bending) on 48 fragments of human costal cartilages. Moreover, in order to simulate decomposition, the cut and fractured surfaces were checked with stereomicroscopy and through casts after 1 and 2 days, 1 week, and 1, 2 and 4 months of drying in ambient air. In fresh samples, for single and unique cuts, striations were observed in between 44 and 88% of cases when non-serrated blades were used, and between 77 and 88% for serrated blades; in the case of "repeated" (back and forth movement) cuts, striations were detected in between 56 and 89% of cases for non-serrated blades, and between 66 and 100% for serrated blades. After only 1 week of decomposition the detection rates fell to percentages of between 28 and 39% for serrated blades and between 17 and 33% for non-serrated blades. Blunt force injuries showed non-specific characteristics, which, if properly assessed, may lead to a reliable distinction between different cut marks in fresh samples. The most evident alterations of the structure of the cartilage occurred in the first week of decomposition in ambient air. After one week of drying, the characteristics of cut marks were almost undetectable, thereby making it extremely challenging to distinguish between cut marks, blunt force fractures and taphonomic effects. The study represents a contribution to the correct assessment and distinction of cut marks and blunt force injuries on cartilages, providing a glimpse on the modifications such lesions may undergo with decomposition.

Monitoring of NMR porosity changes in the full-size core salvage through the drying process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fattakhov, Artur; Kosarev, Victor; Doroginitskii, Mikhail; Skirda, Vladimir

2015-04-01

Currently the principle of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) is one of the most popular technologies in the field of borehole geophysics and core analysis. Results of NMR studies allow to calculate the values of the porosity and permeability of sedimentary rocks with sufficient reliability. All standard tools for the study of core salvage on the basis of NMR have significant limitations: there is considered only long relaxation times corresponding to the mobile formation fluid. Current trends in energy obligate to move away from conventional oil to various alternative sources of energy. One of these sources are deposits of bitumen and high-viscosity oil. In Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University (Russia) there was developed a mobile unit for the study of the full-length core salvage by the NMR method ("NMR-Core") together with specialists of "TNG-Group" (a company providing maintenance services to oil companies). This unit is designed for the study of core material directly on the well, after removing it from the core receiver. The maximum diameter of the core sample may be up to 116 mm, its length (or length of the set of samples) may be up to 1000 mm. Positional precision of the core sample relative to the measurement system is 1 mm, and the spatial resolution along the axis of the core is 10 mm. Acquisition time of the 1 m core salvage varies depending on the mode of research and is at least 20 minutes. Furthermore, there is implemented a special investigation mode of the core samples with super small relaxation times (for example, heavy oil) is in the tool. The aim of this work is tracking of the NMR porosity changes in the full-size core salvage in time. There was used a water-saturated core salvage from the shallow educational well as a sample. The diameter of the studied core samples is 93 mm. There was selected several sections length of 1m from the 200-meter coring interval. The studied core samples are being measured several times. The time interval between the measurements is from 1 hour to 48 hours. Making the measurements it possible to draw conclusions about that the processes of NMR porosity changes in time as a result of evaporation of the part of fluid from the surface layer of the core salvage and suggest a core analysis technique directly on the well. This work is supported by the grant of Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation (project No. 02.G25.31.0029).

Rock bit requires no flushing medium to maintain drilling speed

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1965-01-01

Steel drill bit having terraces of teeth intersected by spiral grooves with teeth permits the boring of small holes through rock with low power. The cuttings are stored in a chamber behind the cutting head. Could be used as sampling device.

Optical Methods for Identifying Hard Clay Core Samples During Petrophysical Studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Morev, A. V.; Solovyeva, A. V.; Morev, V. A.

2018-01-01

X-ray phase analysis of the general mineralogical composition of core samples from one of the West Siberian fields was performed. Electronic absorption spectra of the clay core samples with an added indicator were studied. The speed and availability of applying the two methods in petrophysical laboratories during sample preparation for standard and special studies were estimated.

Exploring optimum cut-off scores to screen for probable posttraumatic stress disorder within a sample of UK treatment-seeking veterans

PubMed Central

Murphy, Dominic; Ross, Jana; Ashwick, Rachel; Armour, Cherie; Busuttil, Walter

2017-01-01

ABSTRACT Background: Previous research exploring the psychometric properties of the scores of measures of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) suggests there is variation in their functioning depending on the target population. To date, there has been little study of these properties within UK veteran populations. Objective: This study aimed to determine optimally efficient cut-off values for the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R) and the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5) that can be used to assess for differential diagnosis of presumptive PTSD. Methods: Data from a sample of 242 UK veterans assessed for mental health difficulties were analysed. The criterion-related validity of the PCL-5 and IES-R were evaluated against the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5 (CAPS-5). Kappa statistics were used to assess the level of agreement between the DSM-IV and DSM-5 classification systems. Results: The optimal cut-off scores observed within this sample were 34 or above on the PCL-5 and 46 or above on the IES-R. The PCL-5 cut-off is similar to the previously reported values, but the IES-R cut-off identified in this study is higher than has previously been recommended. Overall, a moderate level of agreement was found between participants screened positive using the DSM-IV and DSM-5 classification systems of PTSD. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that the PCL-5 and IES-R can be used as brief measures within veteran populations presenting at secondary care to assess for PTSD. The use of a higher cut-off for the IES-R may be helpful for differentiating between veterans who present with PTSD and those who may have some sy`mptoms of PTSD but are sub-threshold for meeting a diagnosis. Further, the use of more accurate optimal cut-offs may aid clinicians to better monitor changes in PTSD symptoms during and after treatment. PMID:29435200

Exploring optimum cut-off scores to screen for probable posttraumatic stress disorder within a sample of UK treatment-seeking veterans.

PubMed

Murphy, Dominic; Ross, Jana; Ashwick, Rachel; Armour, Cherie; Busuttil, Walter

2017-01-01

Background : Previous research exploring the psychometric properties of the scores of measures of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) suggests there is variation in their functioning depending on the target population. To date, there has been little study of these properties within UK veteran populations. Objective : This study aimed to determine optimally efficient cut-off values for the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R) and the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5) that can be used to assess for differential diagnosis of presumptive PTSD. Methods : Data from a sample of 242 UK veterans assessed for mental health difficulties were analysed. The criterion-related validity of the PCL-5 and IES-R were evaluated against the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5 (CAPS-5). Kappa statistics were used to assess the level of agreement between the DSM-IV and DSM-5 classification systems. Results : The optimal cut-off scores observed within this sample were 34 or above on the PCL-5 and 46 or above on the IES-R. The PCL-5 cut-off is similar to the previously reported values, but the IES-R cut-off identified in this study is higher than has previously been recommended. Overall, a moderate level of agreement was found between participants screened positive using the DSM-IV and DSM-5 classification systems of PTSD. Conclusions : Our findings suggest that the PCL-5 and IES-R can be used as brief measures within veteran populations presenting at secondary care to assess for PTSD. The use of a higher cut-off for the IES-R may be helpful for differentiating between veterans who present with PTSD and those who may have some sy`mptoms of PTSD but are sub-threshold for meeting a diagnosis. Further, the use of more accurate optimal cut-offs may aid clinicians to better monitor changes in PTSD symptoms during and after treatment.

Improving microbiological safety and maintaining sensory and nutritional quality of pre-cut tomato and carrot by gamma irradiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mohácsi-Farkas, Cs.; Nyirő-Fekete, B.; Daood, H.; Dalmadi, I.; Kiskó, G.

2014-06-01

Pre-cut tomato and carrot were irradiated with doses of 1.0, 1.5 and 2 kGy. Unirradiated control and irradiated samples were compared organoleptically by a sensory panel. Microbiological analyses were performed directly after irradiation and during post-irradiation storage for 8 days at 5 °C. Ascorbic acid contents, composition of carotenoids and tocopherols were determined. Statistically significant differences of sensory scores between unirradiated and irradiated samples were observed only in the texture of sliced carrots. Total aerobic viable cell counts have been reduced by about two log cycles with 1.5 kGy dose. Total coliforms and moulds were below the detection limit of 15 CFU/g in the irradiated samples during the refrigerated storage. Yeasts were relatively resistant part of the microbiota of pre-cut tomatoes, but 2 kGy dose reduced them below the detection limit. In pre-cut tomatoes, alpha-tocopherol and some carotenoids seemed to be the most radio-sensitive losing approximately one-third of their original concentrations at the dose of 2 kGy. At this dose tocopherols and the level of ascorbic acid decreased also one-third of the initial level in sliced carrots. Additional experiments were conducted to study the effect of irradiation and storage on the population of Listeria monocytogenes and Listeria innocua artificially inoculated on cut tomato and carrot. Cell numbers of both test organisms decreased by at least two log-cycles as an effect of 1 kGy dose. Our studies confirmed earlier findings on a temporary antilisterial effect of freshly cut carrot tissue. No re-growth of Listeria was observed during the studied storage period. The results of these studies suggest that irradiation with 1 kGy gamma rays could improve sufficiently the microbiological safety of the investigated pre-cut produce to satisfy the requirement of low microbial raw diets with acceptable nutritional quality and without diminishing significantly the organoleptic parameters of the commodities.

Role of Siderophores in Dissimilatory Iron Reduction in Arctic Soils : Effect of Direct Amendment of Siderophores to Arctic Soil

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Srinivas, A. J.; Dinsdale, E. A.; Lipson, D.

2014-12-01

Dissimilatory iron reduction (DIR), where ferric iron (Fe3+) is reduced to ferrous iron (Fe2+) anaerobically, is an important respiratory pathway used by soil bacteria. DIR contributes to carbon dioxide (CO2) efflux from the wet sedge tundra biome in the Arctic Coastal Plain (ACP) in Alaska, and could competitively inhibit the production of methane, a stronger greenhouse gas than CO2, from arctic soils. The occurrence of DIR as a dominant anaerobic process depends on the availability of substantial levels of Fe3+ in soils. Siderophores are metabolites made by microbes to dissolve Fe3+ from soil minerals in iron deficient systems, making Fe3+ soluble for micronutrient uptake. However, as the ACP is not iron deficient, siderophores in arctic soils may play a vital role in anaerobic respiration by dissolving Fe3+ for DIR. We studied the effects of direct siderophore addition to arctic soils through a field study conducted in Barrow, Alaska, and a laboratory incubation study conducted at San Diego State University. In the field experiment, 50μM deferroxamine mesylate (a siderophore), 50μM trisodium nitrilotriacetate (an organic chelator) or an equal volume of water was added to isolated experimental plots, replicated in clusters across the landscape. Fe2+ concentrations were measured in soil pore water samples collected periodically to measure DIR over time in each. In the laboratory experiment, frozen soil samples obtained from drained thaw lake basins in the ACP, were cut into cores and treated with the above-mentioned compounds to the same final concentrations. Along with measuring Fe2+ concentrations, CO2 output was also measured to monitor DIR over time in each core. Experimental addition of siderophores to soils in both the field and laboratory resulted in increased concentrations of soluble Fe3+ and a sustained increase in Fe2+concentrations over time, along with increased respiration rates in siderophore-amended cores. These results show increased DIR in siderophore treated cores compared to the other treatments. From the results of these experiments, we conclude that arctic soil microbes can use siderophores to maintain a pool of dissolved Fe3+ for DIR. This study provides insight into the mechanisms of DIR in this ecosystem, and has relevance for understanding anaerobic soil respiration in the Arctic.

GPM Mission, its Scientific Agenda, and its Ground Validation Program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith Eric A.

2004-01-01

The GPM mission is currently planned for start in the late 2010 time frame. From the perspective of NASA s Earth Science Enterprise (ESE) and within the framework of ESE's global water and energy cycle (GWEC) research program, its main scientific goal is to help answer pressing scientific problems concerning how global and regional water cycle processes and precipitation fluctuations and trends influence the variability intrinsic to climate, weather, and hydrology. These problems cut across a hierarchy of space-time scales and include improving understanding of climate-water cycle interactions, developing better techniques for incorporating satellite precipitation measurements into weather and climate predictions, and demonstrating that more accurate, more complete, and better sampled observations of precipitation and other water budget variables used as inputs can improve the ability of prognostic hydrometeorological models in the prediction of hazardous flood-producing storms, seasonal flood/draught conditions, and fresh water resource stores. The GPM mission will expand the scope of precipitation measurement through the use of a constellation of some 9 satellites, one of which will be an advanced TRMM-like core satellite carrying a dual-frequency Ku-Ka band precipitation radar (DPR) and an advanced, multifrequency passive microwave radiometer with vertical-horizontal polarization discrimination (GMI). The other constellation members will include a combination of new dedicated satellites and co-existing operational/research satellites carrying similar (but not identical) passive microwave radiometers. The goal of the constellation is to achieve 3-hour sampling at any spot on the globe -- continuously. The constellation s orbit architecture will consist of a mix of sun-synchronous and non-sun-synchronous satellites with the core satellite providing measurements of calibration-quality rainrates, plus cloud-precipitation microphysical processes, to be used in conjunction with more basic rain retrievals from the other constellation satellites to ensure bias-free constellation coverage.

Combined use of field and laboratory testing to predict preferred flow paths in an heterogeneous aquifer.

PubMed

Gierczak, R F D; Devlin, J F; Rudolph, D L

2006-01-05

Elevated nitrate concentrations within a municipal water supply aquifer led to pilot testing of a field-scale, in situ denitrification technology based on carbon substrate injections. In advance of the pilot test, detailed characterization of the site was undertaken. The aquifer consisted of complex, discontinuous and interstratified silt, sand and gravel units, similar to other well studied aquifers of glaciofluvial origin, 15-40 m deep. Laboratory and field tests, including a conservative tracer test, a pumping test, a borehole flowmeter test, grain-size analysis of drill cuttings and core material, and permeameter testing performed on core samples, were performed on the most productive depth range (27-40 m), and the results were compared. The velocity profiles derived from the tracer tests served as the basis for comparison with other methods. The spatial variation in K, based on grain-size analysis, using the Hazen method, were poorly correlated with the breakthrough data. Trends in relative hydraulic conductivity (K/K(avg)) from permeameter testing compared somewhat better. However, the trends in transient drawdown with depth, measured in multilevel sampling points, corresponded particularly well with those of solute mass flux. Estimates of absolute K, based on standard pumping test analysis of the multilevel drawdown data, were inversely correlated with the tracer test data. The inverse nature of the correlation was attributed to assumptions in the transient drawdown packages that were inconsistent with the variable diffusivities encountered at the scale of the measurements. Collectively, the data showed that despite a relatively low variability in K within the aquifer under study (within a factor of 3), water and solute mass fluxes were concentrated in discrete intervals that could be targeted for later bioremediation.

Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale (LSAS): Optimal cut points for remission and response in a German sample.

PubMed

von Glischinski, M; Willutzki, U; Stangier, U; Hiller, W; Hoyer, J; Leibing, E; Leichsenring, F; Hirschfeld, G

2018-02-11

The Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale (LSAS) is the most frequently used instrument to assess social anxiety disorder (SAD) in clinical research and practice. Both a self-reported (LSAS-SR) and a clinician-administered (LSAS-CA) version are available. The aim of the present study was to define optimal cut-off (OC) scores for remission and response to treatment for the LSAS in a German sample. Data of N = 311 patients with SAD were used who had completed psychotherapeutic treatment within a multicentre randomized controlled trial. Diagnosis of SAD and reduction in symptom severity according to the Structured Clinical Interview for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition, served as gold standard. OCs yielding the best balance between sensitivity and specificity were determined using receiver operating characteristics. The variability of the resulting OCs was estimated by nonparametric bootstrapping. Using diagnosis of SAD (present vs. absent) as a criterion, results for remission indicated cut-off values of 35 for the LSAS-SR and 30 for the LSAS-CA, with acceptable sensitivity (LSAS-SR: .83, LSAS-CA: .88) and specificity (LSAS-SR: .82, LSAS-CA: .87). For detection of response to treatment, assessed by a 1-point reduction in the Structured Clinical Interview for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition, rating, a reduction of 28% for the LSAS-SR and 29% for the LSAS-CA yielded the best balance between sensitivity (LSAS-SR: .75, LSAS-CA: .83) and specificity (LSAS-SR: .76, LSAS-CA: .80). To our knowledge, we are the first to define cut points for the LSAS in a German sample. Overall, the cut points for remission and response corroborate previously reported cut points, now building on a broader data basis. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Cutting film violence: effects on perceptions, enjoyment, and arousal.

PubMed

Berry, M; Gray, T; Donnerstein, E

1999-10-01

The authors investigated the effects of cutting specific graphic scenes of film violence on self-reports of arousal, enjoyability, and perceptions of violence among a sample of U.S. students. In 3 studies, they varied film exposure from 1 1/2 min in the 1st study to a complete motion picture (American vs. British version of same film) in the 3rd. In all 3 studies, the participants rated the cut versions as less violent than the uncut versions. The participants distinguished quite subtle differences in levels of violence, even when the cuts were minor and contextualized within an entire movie. Cutting the movie significantly increased its enjoyability for the women; for the men, there was no significant difference. Cutting violent films made no difference in arousal for the men but substantially lowered self-report levels of arousal for the women.

Utilization of fluorescent microspheres and a green fluorescent protein-marked strain for assessment of microbiological contamination of permafrost and ground ice core samples from the Canadian High Arctic.

PubMed

Juck, D F; Whissell, G; Steven, B; Pollard, W; McKay, C P; Greer, C W; Whyte, L G

2005-02-01

Fluorescent microspheres were applied in a novel fashion during subsurface drilling of permafrost and ground ice in the Canadian High Arctic to monitor the exogenous microbiological contamination of core samples obtained during the drilling process. Prior to each drill run, a concentrated fluorescent microsphere (0.5-microm diameter) solution was applied to the interior surfaces of the drill bit, core catcher, and core tube and allowed to dry. Macroscopic examination in the field demonstrated reliable transfer of the microspheres to core samples, while detailed microscopic examination revealed penetration levels of less than 1 cm from the core exterior. To monitor for microbial contamination during downstream processing of the permafrost and ground ice cores, a Pseudomonas strain expressing the green fluorescent protein (GFP) was painted on the core exterior prior to processing. Contamination of the processed core interiors with the GFP-expressing strain was not detected by culturing the samples or by PCR to detect the gfp marker gene. These methodologies were quick, were easy to apply, and should help to monitor the exogenous microbiological contamination of pristine permafrost and ground ice samples for downstream culture-dependent and culture-independent microbial analyses.

Utilization of Fluorescent Microspheres and a Green Fluorescent Protein-Marked Strain for Assessment of Microbiological Contamination of Permafrost and Ground Ice Core Samples from the Canadian High Arctic

PubMed Central

Juck, D. F.; Whissell, G.; Steven, B.; Pollard, W.; McKay, C. P.; Greer, C. W.; Whyte, L. G.

2005-01-01

Fluorescent microspheres were applied in a novel fashion during subsurface drilling of permafrost and ground ice in the Canadian High Arctic to monitor the exogenous microbiological contamination of core samples obtained during the drilling process. Prior to each drill run, a concentrated fluorescent microsphere (0.5-μm diameter) solution was applied to the interior surfaces of the drill bit, core catcher, and core tube and allowed to dry. Macroscopic examination in the field demonstrated reliable transfer of the microspheres to core samples, while detailed microscopic examination revealed penetration levels of less than 1 cm from the core exterior. To monitor for microbial contamination during downstream processing of the permafrost and ground ice cores, a Pseudomonas strain expressing the green fluorescent protein (GFP) was painted on the core exterior prior to processing. Contamination of the processed core interiors with the GFP-expressing strain was not detected by culturing the samples or by PCR to detect the gfp marker gene. These methodologies were quick, were easy to apply, and should help to monitor the exogenous microbiological contamination of pristine permafrost and ground ice samples for downstream culture-dependent and culture-independent microbial analyses. PMID:15691963

Sediment and water chemistry of the San Juan River and Escalante River deltas of Lake Powell, Utah, 2010-2011

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hornewer, Nancy J.

2014-01-01

Recent studies have documented the presence of trace elements, organic compounds including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and radionuclides in sediment from the Colorado River delta and from sediment in some side canyons in Lake Powell, Utah and Arizona. The fate of many of these contaminants is of significant concern to the resource managers of the National Park Service Glen Canyon National Recreation Area because of potential health impacts to humans and aquatic and terrestrial species. In 2010, the U.S. Geological Survey began a sediment-core sampling and analysis program in the San Juan River and Escalante River deltas in Lake Powell, Utah, to help the National Park Service further document the presence or absence of contaminants in deltaic sediment. Three sediment cores were collected from the San Juan River delta in August 2010 and three sediment cores and an additional replicate core were collected from the Escalante River delta in September 2011. Sediment from the cores was subsampled and composited for analysis of major and trace elements. Fifty-five major and trace elements were analyzed in 116 subsamples and 7 composited samples for the San Juan River delta cores, and in 75 subsamples and 9 composited samples for the Escalante River delta cores. Six composited sediment samples from the San Juan River delta cores and eight from the Escalante River delta cores also were analyzed for 55 low-level organochlorine pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls, 61 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon compounds, gross alpha and gross beta radionuclides, and sediment-particle size. Additionally, water samples were collected from the sediment-water interface overlying each of the three cores collected from the San Juan River and Escalante River deltas. Each water sample was analyzed for 57 major and trace elements. Most of the major and trace elements analyzed were detected at concentrations greater than reporting levels for the sediment-core subsamples and composited samples. Low-level organochlorine pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls were not detected in any of the samples. Only one polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon compound was detected at a concentration greater than the reporting level for one San Juan composited sample. Gross alpha and gross beta radionuclides were detected at concentrations greater than reporting levels for all samples. Most of the major and trace elements analyzed were detected at concentrations greater than reporting levels for water samples.

Triple point fcc-hcp-liquid in the Fe phase diagram determined by in-situ XANES diagnostic and post-mortem XRD and FIB-SEM analysis.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Morard, G.; Boccato, S.; Rosa, A. D.; Anzellini, S.; Miozzi Ferrini, F.; Laura, H.; Garbarino, G.; Harmand, M.; Guyot, F. J.; Boulard, E.; Kantor, I.; Irifune, T.; Torchio, R.

2017-12-01

Iron is the main constituent of planetary cores. Studying its phase diagram under high pressure is necessary to constrain properties of planetary interiors, and to model key parameters such as the generation of magnetic field. Though, strong controversy on the melting curve of pure Fe still remains. Recently, Aquilanti et al, (PNAS, 2015) reported a Fe melting curved based on XANES measurements which is in open disagreement with previous X-ray diffraction results (Anzellini et al, Science, 2013). Discrepancies in the melting temperature exceed several hundred degrees close to Mbar pressures, which may be related to differences in temperature measurement techniques, melting diagnostics, or to chemical reactions of the sample with the surrounding medium. We therefore performed new in situ high P/T XANES experiments on pure Fe (up to 115 GPa and 4000 K) at the ESRF beamline ID24, combining the energy dispersive absorption set up with laser heated diamond anvil cells. X-ray diffraction maps were collected from all recovered samples in order to identify and characterize laser-heated spots. The XANES melting criterion was further cross checked by analyzing the recovered sample textures using FIB cutting techniques and SEM imaging. We found systematically that low melting temperatures are related to the presence of Fe3C, implying that in those cases chemical reactions occurred during heating resulting in carbon contamination from the diamonds. These low melting points fall onto the melting line reported by Aquilanti et al, (2015). Uncontaminated points are in agreement with the melting curve of Anzellini et al, (2013) within their uncertainties. Moreover, this data set allowed us to refine the location of the triple point in the Fe phase diagram at 105 (±10) GPa and 3600 (±200) K, which may imply a small kink in the melting curve around this point. This refined Fe phase diagram could be then used to compute thermodynamic models for planetary cores.

Performance of a commercial serum ELISA for the detection of antibodies to Neospora caninum in whole and skim milk samples.

PubMed

Byrem, T M; Bartlett, P C; Donohue, H; Voisinet, B D; Houseman, J T

2012-11-23

Control of Neospora caninum infection in cattle depends on specific, ante-mortem detection of infected animals and limiting their use as breeding stock or by culling. The objective of the present study was to determine appropriate cut-off values and diagnostic performance of a milk ELISA test using whole and skim milk in a commercial serum ELISA test (IDEXX Neospora Ab). Serum and milk samples were obtained from a total of 475 lactating cows from two herds with and two herds without a previous history of N. caninum-associated abortion. Overall seroprevalence determined by the ELISA was 18.3%. Compared to serum ELISA values, correlation and overall performance assessed by receiver operating characteristic analysis was higher when either whole or skim milk samples were diluted 1:2 compared to undiluted or 1:5 diluted samples. Diagnostic performance for analysis of whole and skim milk was compared at cut-off values that achieved a desired operating characteristic of at least 95% specificity. For whole milk diluted 1:2 and a cut-off of 0.14 (S/P ratio), sensitivity and kappa values were 74.7% (95% CI 64.3-83.4) and 0.70 (95% CI 0.61-0.78), respectively. For skim milk diluted 1:2 and a cut-off of 0.30, sensitivity and kappa values were 77.0% (95% CI 66.8-85.4) and 0.72 (95% CI 0.64-0.80), respectively. Using the selected cut-offs, the IDEXX Neospora Ab Test is equally suited for the analysis of whole and skim milk as a screening tool in neosporosis control programs. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Performance of ARCHITECT HCV core antigen test with specimens from US plasma donors and injecting drug users.

PubMed

Mixson-Hayden, Tonya; Dawson, George J; Teshale, Eyasu; Le, Thao; Cheng, Kevin; Drobeniuc, Jan; Ward, John; Kamili, Saleem

2015-05-01

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) core antigen is a serological marker of current HCV infection. The aim of this study was mainly to evaluate the performance characteristics of the ARCHITECT HCV core antigen assay with specimens from US plasma donors and injecting drug users. A total of 551 serum and plasma samples with known anti-HCV and HCV RNA status were tested for HCV core antigen using the Abbott ARCHITECT HCV core antigen test. HCV core antigen was detectable in 100% of US plasma donor samples collected during the pre-seroconversion phase of infection (anti-HCV negative/HCV RNA positive). Overall sensitivity of the HCV core antigen assay was 88.9-94.3% in samples collected after seroconversion. The correlation between HCV core antigen and HCV RNA titers was 0.959. HCV core antigen testing may be reliably used to identify current HCV infection. Published by Elsevier B.V.

What is hypomania? Tetrachoric factor analysis and kernel estimation of DSM-IV hypomanic symptoms.

PubMed

Benazzi, Franco

2009-11-01

The DSM-IV definition of hypomania, which relies on clinical consensus and historical tradition, includes several "nonspecific" symptoms. The aim of this study was to identify the core symptoms of DSM-IV hypomania. In an outpatient private practice, 266 bipolar II disorder (BP-II) and 138 major depressive disorder (MDD) remitted patients were interviewed by a bipolar-trained psychiatrist, for different study goals. Patients were questioned, using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV, about the most common symptoms and duration of recent threshold and subthreshold hypomanic episodes. Data were recorded between 2002 and 2006. Four different samples, assessed with the same methodology, were pooled for the present analyses. Tetrachoric factor analysis was used to identify core hypomanic symptoms. Distribution of symptoms by kernel estimation was inspected for bimodality. Validity of core hypomania was tested by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. The distribution of subthreshold and threshold hypomanic episodes did not show bimodality. Tetrachoric factor analysis found 2 uncorrelated factors: factor 1 included the "classic" symptoms elevated mood, inflated self-esteem, decreased need for sleep, talkativeness, and increase in goal-directed activity (overactivity); factor 2 included the "nonspecific" symptoms irritable mood, racing/crowded thoughts, and distractibility. Factor 1 discriminatory accuracy for distinguishing BP-II versus MDD was high (ROC area = 0.94). The distribution of the 5-symptom episodes of factor 1 showed clear-cut bimodality. Similar results were found for episodes limited to 3 behavioral symptoms of factor 1 (decreased need for sleep, talkativeness, and overactivity) and 4 behavioral symptoms of factor 1 (adding elevated mood), with high discriminatory accuracy. A core, categorical DSM-IV hypomania was found that included 3 to 5 symptoms, ie, behavioral symptoms and elevated mood. Behavioral symptoms (overactivity domain) could be the basic phenotype of hypomania. This finding could help in probing for hypomania and reduce misdiagnosis. Biologic research could focus more on the underpinnings of the overactivity domain specifically. Copyright 2009 Physicians Postgraduate Press, Inc.

Salton Sea Scientific Drilling Program

USGS Publications Warehouse

Sass, J.H.

1988-01-01

The Salton Sea Scientific Drilling Program (SSSDP) was the first large-scale drilling project undertaken by the U.S Continental Scientific Drilling Program. The objectives of the SSSDP were (1) to drill a deep well into the Salton Sea Geothermal Field in the Imperial Valley of California, (2) to retrieve a high percentage of core and cuttings along the entire depth of the well, (3) to obtain a comprehensive suite of geophysical logs, (4) to conduct flow tests at two depths  (and to take fluid samples therefrom), and (5) to carry out several downhole experiments. These activites enabled the U.S Geological Survey and cooperating agencies to study the physical and chemical processes involved in an active hydrothermal system driven by a molten-rock heat source. This program, orginally conceived by Wilfred A. Elders, professor of geology at the University of California at Riverside, was coordinated under an inter-agency accord among the Geological Survey, the U.S Department of Energy, and the National Science Foundation. 

Paleomagnetism of Midway Atoll lavas and northward movement of the Pacific plate

USGS Publications Warehouse

Gromme, S.; Vine, F.J.

1972-01-01

Two deep drill holes through the reef limestones of Midway Atoll penetrated 120 m and 19 m of basaltic lavas that were dated by the KAr method at 18 my. Inclinations of natural remanent magnetization have been measured in 173 specimens cut from 57 core samples from 13 of the lava flows. The mean paleomagnetic inclination is 27.6?? ?? 6.8??, corresponding to a paleolatitude of 14.7?? ?? 4.2??. The present latitude of Midway is 28??, suggesting a northward component of motion of the Pacific plate of approximately 13?? or 1400 km in the last 18 my. The paleolatitude of Midway is thus not significantly different from the present latitude (19??) of the active volcanic island of Hawaii. The paleomagnetic data from the Midway basalts thus support the hypothesis of Wilson and Morgan that volcanic heat sources are fixed with respect to the Earth's mantle below the asthenosphere and their apparent migration with time is due to plate motion. ?? 1972.

Acoustic property reconstruction of a neonate Yangtze finless porpoise's (Neophocaena asiaeorientalis) head based on CT imaging.

PubMed

Wei, Chong; Wang, Zhitao; Song, Zhongchang; Wang, Kexiong; Wang, Ding; Au, Whitlow W L; Zhang, Yu

2015-01-01

The reconstruction of the acoustic properties of a neonate finless porpoise's head was performed using X-ray computed tomography (CT). The head of the deceased neonate porpoise was also segmented across the body axis and cut into slices. The averaged sound velocity and density were measured, and the Hounsfield units (HU) of the corresponding slices were obtained from computed tomography scanning. A regression analysis was employed to show the linear relationships between the Hounsfield unit and both sound velocity and density of samples. Furthermore, the CT imaging data were used to compare the HU value, sound velocity, density and acoustic characteristic impedance of the main tissues in the porpoise's head. The results showed that the linear relationships between HU and both sound velocity and density were qualitatively consistent with previous studies on Indo-pacific humpback dolphins and Cuvier's beaked whales. However, there was no significant increase of the sound velocity and acoustic impedance from the inner core to the outer layer in this neonate finless porpoise's melon.

Solid-state 13C NMR studies of a large fossil gymnosperm from the Yallourn Open Cut, Latrobe Valley, Australia

USGS Publications Warehouse

Bates, A.L.; Hatcher, P.G.

1989-01-01

A series of samples taken from the cross section of a 3-m-diameter fossilized gymnospermous log (Araucariaceae) in the Yallourn Seam of the Australian brown coals was examined by solid state 13C nuclear magnetic resonance to delineate chemical changes related to the combined processes of peatification and coalification. The results show that cellulosic materials were degraded and lost on the periphery of the log, however, the degree of such degradation in the central core is substantially less. The lignin is uniformly altered by coalification reactions to a macromolecular substance displaying decreased aryl ether linkages but significantly greater amounts of carbon linkages compared to modern lignin. Changes in the methoxyl carbon contents of lignin in cross section reveal demethylation reactions, but these do not appear to be related to degree of carbon linking. Both the degredation of cellulosic materials and demethylation of lignin appear to be early diagenetic processes occurring during peatification independently of the coalification reactions. ?? 1989.

Drilling Deep Into STEM Education with JOIDES Resolution Education and Outreach Officers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Christiansen, E. A.

2015-12-01

During International Ocean Discovery Program (IODP) expeditions, IODP scientists and Education/Outreach (E/O) Officers enter classrooms and informal science venues via live Internet video links between the JOIDES Resolution (JR) and land-based learning centers. Post-expedition, E/O Officers, serving as JR Ambassadors, deepen and broaden the learning experience by bringing STEM from the JR to the general public through targeted outreach events at those land-based sites. Youth and adult learners participate in scientific inquiry through interactive activities linked directly to the video broadcast experience. Outreach venues include museums, summer camps, and after-school programs; classroom visits from E/O Officers encompass kindergarten to undergraduate school groups and often include professional development for educators. Events are hands-on with simulations, expedition samples, core models, and equipment available for interaction. This program can serve as a model for linking virtual and real experiences; deepening the educational value of virtual field trip events; and bringing cutting edge science into both classrooms and informal science venues.

STS studies of the pi-band superconductivity in MgB2 in a transverse field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Griggs, C.; Eskildsen, M. R.; Zhigadlo, N. D.; Karpinski, J.

2012-02-01

Since being discovered MgB2 has become the paradigm for two-band/two-gap superconductivity. Early scanning tunneling spectroscopy (STS) measurements, showed a rapid suppression of the superconductivty in the isotropic π-band for modest applied fields H c. These measurements were performed with the tunnel current (It) parallel to the crystalline c-axis which couple, almost exclusively, to the π-band, and with the suppression attributed to vortex core overlap. Here we report STS measurements performed in a transverse field, such that Itc H. In this configuration no vortices are cutting through the image plane, and instead the superconducting phase is affected by the Meissner currents running within one penetration depth of the sample surface. Within this field orientation we observe far less suppression of the superconducting state in the π-band compared to the earlier measurements with H c. A clear gap is seen up to H= 0.9 T.

Air core notch-coil magnet with variable geometry for fast-field-cycling NMR.

PubMed

Kruber, S; Farrher, G D; Anoardo, E

2015-10-01

In this manuscript we present details on the optimization, construction and performance of a wide-bore (71 mm) α-helical-cut notch-coil magnet with variable geometry for fast-field-cycling NMR. In addition to the usual requirements for this kind of magnets (high field-to-power ratio, good magnetic field homogeneity, low inductance and resistance values) a tunable homogeneity and a more uniform heat dissipation along the magnet body are considered. The presented magnet consists of only one machined metallic cylinder combined with two external movable pieces. The optimal configuration is calculated through an evaluation of the magnetic flux density within the entire volume of interest. The magnet has a field-to-current constant of 0.728 mT/A, allowing to switch from zero to 0.125 T in less than 3 ms without energy storage assistance. For a cylindrical sample volume of 35 cm(3) the effective magnet homogeneity is lower than 130 ppm. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

High resolution scanning of radial strips cut from increment cores by near infrared spectroscopy

Treesearch

P. David Jones; Laurence R. Schimleck; Chi-Leung So; Alexander III Clark; Richard F. Daniels

2007-01-01

Near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy provides a rapid method for the determination of wood properties of radial strips. The spatial resolution of the NIR measurements has generally been limited to sections 10 mm wide and as a consequence the estimation of wood properties of individual rings or within rings has not been possible. Many different NIR instruments can be used...

Manufacture and performance of full size structural flakeboards from Douglas-fir forest residues

Treesearch

J. Dobbin McNatt

1978-01-01

The Forest Products Laboratory manufactured and assessed the performance of 4- by 8-foot structural flakeboard panels from Douglas-fir forest residues after target performance goals were developed. The 42 pcf, three- layer boards were 1/2 inch thick with high quality disk cut flakes for the faces and lower quality flakes processed through a ring flaker in the core....

Promoting Gender Diversity in the Faculty: What Higher Education Unions Can Do

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

American Federation of Teachers (NJ), 2011

2011-01-01

In spring 2011, public higher education is under attack as never before. Public institutions have been targeted for drastic cuts in the past, but now the attacks are aimed at the very core of the educational enterprise and at the basic rights of college faculty and staff. This, in turn, has the potential of placing at risk the practices and…

Records of wells and test holes in the Nevada Test Site and vicinity (through December 1966)

USGS Publications Warehouse

Thordarson, William; Young, R.A.; Winograd, I.J.

1967-01-01

Hydrogeologic and construction data obtained from 119 test holes, wells, and emplacement holes at the Nevada Test Site and vicinity (through December 1966) are tabulated. The availability of cuttings, cores, lithologic logs, geophysical logs, formation-water analyses, hydraulic test data, and detailed construction data for each hole, as well as references to published reports for selected holes, are noted.

On-line Tool Wear Detection on DCMT070204 Carbide Tool Tip Based on Noise Cutting Audio Signal using Artificial Neural Network

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prasetyo, T.; Amar, S.; Arendra, A.; Zam Zami, M. K.

2018-01-01

This study develops an on-line detection system to predict the wear of DCMT070204 tool tip during the cutting process of the workpiece. The machine used in this research is CNC ProTurn 9000 to cut ST42 steel cylinder. The audio signal has been captured using the microphone placed in the tool post and recorded in Matlab. The signal is recorded at the sampling rate of 44.1 kHz, and the sampling size of 1024. The recorded signal is 110 data derived from the audio signal while cutting using a normal chisel and a worn chisel. And then perform signal feature extraction in the frequency domain using Fast Fourier Transform. Feature selection is done based on correlation analysis. And tool wear classification was performed using artificial neural networks with 33 input features selected. This artificial neural network is trained with back propagation method. Classification performance testing yields an accuracy of 74%.

Scenario-based modeling for multiple allocation hub location problem under disruption risk: multiple cuts Benders decomposition approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yahyaei, Mohsen; Bashiri, Mahdi

2017-12-01

The hub location problem arises in a variety of domains such as transportation and telecommunication systems. In many real-world situations, hub facilities are subject to disruption. This paper deals with the multiple allocation hub location problem in the presence of facilities failure. To model the problem, a two-stage stochastic formulation is developed. In the proposed model, the number of scenarios grows exponentially with the number of facilities. To alleviate this issue, two approaches are applied simultaneously. The first approach is to apply sample average approximation to approximate the two stochastic problem via sampling. Then, by applying the multiple cuts Benders decomposition approach, computational performance is enhanced. Numerical studies show the effective performance of the SAA in terms of optimality gap for small problem instances with numerous scenarios. Moreover, performance of multi-cut Benders decomposition is assessed through comparison with the classic version and the computational results reveal the superiority of the multi-cut approach regarding the computational time and number of iterations.

Nitrate and Aluminum Transport Through Soil Layers in a Clear-Cut Watershed

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McHale, M. R.; Murdoch, P. S.; Burns, D. A.

2002-12-01

The 24-ha Dry Creek watershed in the Catskill Mountains of New York State was clear-cut during 1997 to evaluate nutrient release to New York City reservoirs due to forest harvesting. The Dry Creek watershed is in the headwaters of the Neversink watershed, which is part of the New York City Reservoir system that supplies drinking water to over 20 million people. Soil water, groundwater seeps, and stream water chemistry were monitored to trace the transport of solutes before and after the timber harvest. Automated sequential zero-tension lysimeters and standard zero-tension lysimeters were installed at depths of 70, 300, and 500 mm to sample soil water in the O, B, and C-horizons, respectively. Pre-cut (water years 1993-1996) mean soil water concentrations from zero tension lysimeters indicate that O-horizon soil water (70 mm depth) had the highest nitrate (NO3-) and monomeric aluminum (Alm) concentrations (73 and 18 μmoles l-1, respectively). During that same time period water from ground-water seeps had lower NO3- and Alm concentrations (22 and 0.88 μmoles l-1, respectively) than any soil waters sampled. During the two years following the clear-cut, groundwater seep NO3- concentrations were 138-123 μmoles l-1 and Alm concentrations were 50-30 μmoles l-1 lower than that measured in soil water. Throughout the same time period, B-horizon soil water had the highest mean NO3- concentration (345 μmoles l-1) while C-horizon soil water had the highest mean Alm concentrations (51 μmoles l-1). But during storms in the first year after the clear-cut O-horizon soil water NO3- and Alm concentrations often peaked at more than twice those measured in the B-horizon. During the second year after the clear-cut, B-horizon storm NO3- concentrations were consistently greater than O-horizon concentrations. During the fourth and fifth years following the clear-cut, soil water NO3- concentrations had dropped below pre-cut concentrations however NO3- in groundwater seeps remained elevated. The NO3- concentration at the watershed outlet also remained above pre-cut levels. During the first years following the clear-cut, in the absence of watershed vegetation, soil NO3- was leached to watershed streams and to deeper groundwater. As the forest has regenerated soil NO3- has been immobilized while groundwater continues as a source of NO3- to watershed streams 4-5 years after the cut. Four to five years after the clear-cut Alm concentrations were below pre-cut levels for all waters sampled. The elevated stream water NO3- concentrations that continue to be measured at the stream outlet, are not accompanied by elevated Alm concentrations since the groundwater seeps that are the source of the NO3- have never been a significant source of Alm.

Waist circumference cut-off in relation to body mass index and percentage of body fat in adult women from Merida, Mexico.

PubMed

Datta Banik, Sudip; Dickinson, Federico

2015-01-01

Waist circumference (WC) as an index of central obesity is related to body mass index (BMI) and percent body fat (PBF). Waist circumference data were analyzed to identify a WC cut-off for adult women with respect to BMI-based obesity (≥ 30 kg/m²) and PBF. The sample was 138 women aged 22 to 41 years with Maya ancestry (based on surnames) in Merida, Yucatan, measured during 2011 - 2013. Anthropometric parameters included height, body weight (BW), and BMI. The PBF was estimated by bioelectrical impedance. Estimated cut-offs per centimeter WC (80 - 99 cm) were predicted by BMI for obesity (≥ 30 kg m⁻²; binomial: Yes = 1, No = 0) and PBF (continuous variable) using binary logistic regression analyses. Mean age was 32 years, mean BMI was 29 kg m(-2) and mean WC was 89 cm. The sample exhibited high PBF (44 %), and high rates of overweight (44%) and obesity (40%). The threshold WC (≥ 93 cm) had high sensitivity (80%), specificity (82%), Youden Index value (0.62), and correct classification rate (82%). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 88 %. The WC ≥ 93 cm cut-off had corresponding values for mean BMI (34 kg m⁻²) and PBF (47%). The optimal WC cut-off at 93 cm significantly identified central obesity for BMI ≥ 30 kg m⁻² and PBF for this sample.

Comprehensive analyses of core-shell InGaN/GaN single nanowire photodiodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, H.; Guan, N.; Piazza, V.; Kapoor, A.; Bougerol, C.; Julien, F. H.; Babichev, A. V.; Cavassilas, N.; Bescond, M.; Michelini, F.; Foldyna, M.; Gautier, E.; Durand, C.; Eymery, J.; Tchernycheva, M.

2017-12-01

Single nitride nanowire core/shell n-p photodetectors are fabricated and analyzed. Nanowires consisting of an n-doped GaN stem, a radial InGaN/GaN multiple quantum well system and a p-doped GaN external shell were grown by catalyst-free metal-organic vapour phase epitaxy on sapphire substrates. Single nanowires were dispersed and the core and the shell regions were contacted with a metal and an ITO deposition, respectively, defined using electron beam lithography. The single wire photodiodes present a response in the visible to UV spectral range under zero external bias. The detector operation speed has been analyzed under different bias conditions. Under zero bias, the  -3 dB cut-off frequency is ~200 Hz for small light modulations. The current generation was modeled using non-equilibrium Green function formalism, which evidenced the importance of phonon scattering for carrier extraction from the quantum wells.

Method for manufacturing magnetohydrodynamic electrodes

DOEpatents

Killpatrick, Don H.; Thresh, Henry R.

1982-01-01

A method of manufacturing electrodes for use in a magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) generator comprising the steps of preparing a billet having a core 10 of a first metal, a tubular sleeve 12 of a second metal, and an outer sheath 14, 16, 18 of an extrusile metal; evacuating the space between the parts of the assembled billet; extruding the billet; and removing the outer jacket 14. The extruded bar may be made into electrodes by cutting and bending to the shape required for an MDH channel frame. The method forms a bond between the first metal of the core 10 and the second metal of the sleeve 12 strong enough to withstand a hot and corrosive environment.

The University of Kansas High-Throughput Screening Laboratory. Part II: enabling collaborative drug-discovery partnerships through cutting-edge screening technology.

PubMed

McDonald, Peter R; Roy, Anuradha; Chaguturu, Rathnam

2011-07-01

The University of Kansas High-Throughput Screening (KU HTS) core is a state-of-the-art drug-discovery facility with an entrepreneurial open-service policy, which provides centralized resources supporting public- and private-sector research initiatives. The KU HTS core was established in 2002 at the University of Kansas with support from an NIH grant and the state of Kansas. It collaborates with investigators from national and international academic, nonprofit and pharmaceutical organizations in executing HTS-ready assay development and screening of chemical libraries for target validation, probe selection, hit identification and lead optimization. This is part two of a contribution from the KU HTS laboratory.

Using the animal to the last bit: Consumer preferences for different beef cuts.

PubMed

Scozzafava, Gabriele; Corsi, Armando Maria; Casini, Leonardo; Contini, Caterina; Loose, Simone Mueller

2016-01-01

Meat is expensive to produce, making it is essential to understand the importance consumers pay to different meat cuts. Previous research on consumers' meat choices has mainly focused on meat species, while consumer preferences for meat cuts has so far only received limited interest. The aim of this study is to shed some light into this relatively unexplored area by answering four research questions. First, this study intends to show the relative importance meat cuts play in relation to other extrinsic product attributes. Secondly, this paper looks into differences in choice criteria between regular and special occasions. Third, consumer segments that differ in their preferences and beef purchase are identified, and, finally, the meat purchase portfolios of these segments are revealed. A stated preference methodology of a discrete choice experiment with cut-specific prices covering several meat cuts simultaneously is proposed to answer the research questions. The sample consists of 1500 respondents representative of the Italian population in terms of age, gender and geographic location The results shows that meat cut is the most important factor when choosing bovine meat followed by quality certification (origin), production technique, the type of breed and price. In terms of consumption occasions, we observe significantly lower price sensitivity for marbled steaks and cutlets for special occasions compared to normal occasions. Segmentation analysis shows that while the choices of two segments (comprising about 40% of the sample) are mostly driven by extrinsic product attributes, the remaining segments are mostly driven by meat cuts. These varying preferences are also reflected in the purchase portfolios of the different segments, while less variability is detected from a socio-demographic perspective. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Systematic ultrasound-guided saturation and template biopsy of the prostate: indications and advantages of extended sampling.

PubMed

Isbarn, Hendrik; Briganti, Alberto; De Visschere, Pieter J L; Fütterer, Jurgen J; Ghadjar, Pirus; Giannarini, Gianluca; Ost, Piet; Ploussard, Guillaume; Sooriakumaran, Prasanna; Surcel, Christian I; van Oort, Inge M; Yossepowitch, Ofer; van den Bergh, Roderick C N

2015-04-01

Prostate biopsy (PB) is the gold standard for the diagnosis of prostate cancer (PCa). However, the optimal number of biopsy cores remains debatable. We sought to compare contemporary standard (10-12 cores) vs. saturation (=18 cores) schemes on initial as well as repeat PB. A non-systematic review of the literature was performed from 2000 through 2013. Studies of highest evidence (randomized controlled trials, prospective non-randomized studies, and retrospective reports of high quality) comparing standard vs saturation schemes on initial and repeat PB were evaluated. Outcome measures were overall PCa detection rate, detection rate of insignificant PCa, and procedure-associated morbidity. On initial PB, there is growing evidence that a saturation scheme is associated with a higher PCa detection rate compared to a standard one in men with lower PSA levels (<10 ng/ml), larger prostates (>40 cc), or lower PSA density values (<0.25 ng/ml/cc). However, these cut-offs are not uniform and differ among studies. Detection rates of insignificant PCa do not differ in a significant fashion between standard and saturation biopsies. On repeat PB, PCa detection rate is likewise higher with saturation protocols. Estimates of insignificant PCa vary widely due to differing definitions of insignificant disease. However, the rates of insignificant PCa appear to be comparable for the schemes in patients with only one prior negative biopsy, while saturation biopsy seems to detect more cases of insignificant PCa compared to standard biopsy in men with two or more prior negative biopsies. Very extensive sampling is associated with a high rate of acute urinary retention, whereas other severe adverse events, such as sepsis, appear not to occur more frequently with saturation schemes. Current evidence suggests that saturation schemes are associated with a higher PCa detection rate compared to standard ones on initial PB in men with lower PSA levels or larger prostates, and on repeat PB. Since most data are derived from retrospective studies, other endpoints such as detection rate of insignificant disease - especially on repeat PB - show broad variations throughout the literature and must, thus, be interpreted with caution. Future prospective controlled trials should be conducted to compare extended templates with newer techniques, such as image-guided sampling, in order to optimize PCa diagnostic strategy.

Microbial Characterization of Solid-Wastes Treated with Heat Melt Compaction Technology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Strayer, Richard F.; Hummerick, Mary E.; Richards, Jeffrey T.; McCoy, LaShelle E.; Roberts, Michael S.; Wheeler, Raymond M.

2011-01-01

The research purpose of the project was to determine the fate of microorganisms in space-generated solid wastes after processing by a Heat Melt Compactor (HMC), which is a candidate solid waste treatment technology. Five HMC product disks were generated at Ames Research Center (ARC), Waste Management Systems element. The feed for two was simulated space-generated trash and feed for three was Volume F compartment wet waste returned on STS 130. Conventional microbiological methods were used to detect and enumerate microorganisms in HMC disks and in surface swab samples of HMC hardware before and after operation. Also, biological indicator test strips were added to the STS trash prior to compaction to test if HMC processing conditions, 150 C for approx 3 hr and dehydration, were sufficient to eliminate the test bacteria on the strips. During sample acquisition at KSC, the HMC disk surfaces were sanitized with 70% alcohol to prevent contamination of disk interiors. Results from microbiological assays indicated that numbers of microbes were greatly reduced but not eliminated by the 70% alcohol. Ten 1.25 cm diameter cores were aseptically cut from each disk to sample the disk interior. The core material was run through the microbial characterization analyses after dispersal in sterile diluent. Low counts of viable bacteria (5 to 50 per core) were found but total direct counts were 6 to 8 orders of magnitude greater. These results indicate that the HMC operating conditions might not be sufficient for complete waste sterilization, but the vast majority of microbes present in the wastes were dead or non-cultivable after HMC treatment. The results obtained from analyses of the commercial spore test strips that had been added fo the wastes prior to HMC operation further indicated that the HMC was sterilizing the wastes. Nearly all strips were recovered from the HMC disks and all of these were negative for spore growth when run through the manufacturer's protocol. The 10(exp 6) or so spores impregnated into the strips were no longer viable. Control test strips, i.e., not exposed to the HMC conditions, were all strongly positive. All isolates from the cultivable counts were identified, leading to one concern: several were identified as Staphylococcus aureus, a human pathogen. The project reported here provides microbial characterization support to the Waste Management Systems element of the Life Support and Habitation Systems program.

Sediment Core Extrusion Method at Millimeter Resolution Using a Calibrated, Threaded-rod.

PubMed

Schwing, Patrick T; Romero, Isabel C; Larson, Rebekka A; O'Malley, Bryan J; Fridrik, Erika E; Goddard, Ethan A; Brooks, Gregg R; Hastings, David W; Rosenheim, Brad E; Hollander, David J; Grant, Guy; Mulhollan, Jim

2016-08-17

Aquatic sediment core subsampling is commonly performed at cm or half-cm resolution. Depending on the sedimentation rate and depositional environment, this resolution provides records at the annual to decadal scale, at best. An extrusion method, using a calibrated, threaded-rod is presented here, which allows for millimeter-scale subsampling of aquatic sediment cores of varying diameters. Millimeter scale subsampling allows for sub-annual to monthly analysis of the sedimentary record, an order of magnitude higher than typical sampling schemes. The extruder consists of a 2 m aluminum frame and base, two core tube clamps, a threaded-rod, and a 1 m piston. The sediment core is placed above the piston and clamped to the frame. An acrylic sampling collar is affixed to the upper 5 cm of the core tube and provides a platform from which to extract sub-samples. The piston is rotated around the threaded-rod at calibrated intervals and gently pushes the sediment out the top of the core tube. The sediment is then isolated into the sampling collar and placed into an appropriate sampling vessel (e.g., jar or bag). This method also preserves the unconsolidated samples (i.e., high pore water content) at the surface, providing a consistent sampling volume. This mm scale extrusion method was applied to cores collected in the northern Gulf of Mexico following the Deepwater Horizon submarine oil release. Evidence suggests that it is necessary to sample at the mm scale to fully characterize events that occur on the monthly time-scale for continental slope sediments.

Sediment Core Extrusion Method at Millimeter Resolution Using a Calibrated, Threaded-rod

PubMed Central

Schwing, Patrick T.; Romero, Isabel C.; Larson, Rebekka A.; O'Malley, Bryan J.; Fridrik, Erika E.; Goddard, Ethan A.; Brooks, Gregg R.; Hastings, David W.; Rosenheim, Brad E.; Hollander, David J.; Grant, Guy; Mulhollan, Jim

2016-01-01

Aquatic sediment core subsampling is commonly performed at cm or half-cm resolution. Depending on the sedimentation rate and depositional environment, this resolution provides records at the annual to decadal scale, at best. An extrusion method, using a calibrated, threaded-rod is presented here, which allows for millimeter-scale subsampling of aquatic sediment cores of varying diameters. Millimeter scale subsampling allows for sub-annual to monthly analysis of the sedimentary record, an order of magnitude higher than typical sampling schemes. The extruder consists of a 2 m aluminum frame and base, two core tube clamps, a threaded-rod, and a 1 m piston. The sediment core is placed above the piston and clamped to the frame. An acrylic sampling collar is affixed to the upper 5 cm of the core tube and provides a platform from which to extract sub-samples. The piston is rotated around the threaded-rod at calibrated intervals and gently pushes the sediment out the top of the core tube. The sediment is then isolated into the sampling collar and placed into an appropriate sampling vessel (e.g., jar or bag). This method also preserves the unconsolidated samples (i.e., high pore water content) at the surface, providing a consistent sampling volume. This mm scale extrusion method was applied to cores collected in the northern Gulf of Mexico following the Deepwater Horizon submarine oil release. Evidence suggests that it is necessary to sample at the mm scale to fully characterize events that occur on the monthly time-scale for continental slope sediments. PMID:27585268

Alginate coating as carrier of oligofructose and inulin and to maintain the quality of fresh-cut apples.

PubMed

Rössle, Christian; Brunton, Nigel; Gormley, Ronan T; Wouters, Rudy; Butler, Francis

2011-01-01

The aim of this study was to apply an edible coating containing prebiotics such as oligofructose and inulin to fresh-cut apple wedges. An assessment of the quality, sensory, polyphenol, and volatile attributes of coated and uncoated fresh-cut apple wedges was also undertaken. Fructan analysis showed that all prebiotics remained stable over the 14-d storage period and an intake of 100 g of apple supplies 1 to 3 g of prebiotics. Browning index, firmness, acidity remained stable throughout the 14 d compared to the control while applying prebiotic coatings resulted in an increase in soluble solids. Sensory and visual assessment indicated acceptable quality of apple wedges coated with prebiotics. HPLC analysis showed that levels of polyphenolic compounds were more stable in coated apple wedges (without prebiotic inclusions) than in uncoated control apples. No difference was found between O(2) and CO(2) headspace concentration of coated and uncoated samples. Significant differences (P < 0.001) were found for headspace volatile production between the samples. Most coated samples showed lower volatile production in the headspace than uncoated samples.

Geohydrologic data from test hole USW UZ-7, Yucca Mountain area, Nye County, Nevada

USGS Publications Warehouse

Kume, Jack; Hammermeister, D.P.

1990-01-01

This report contains a description of the methods used in drilling and coring of the test-hole USW UZ-7, a description of the methods used in collecting, handling, and testing of test-hole samples; Lithologic information from the test hole; and water-content, water-potential, bulk-density, grain-density, porosity, and tritium data for the test hole. Test-hole USW UZ-7 was drilled and cored to a total depth of 62.94 m. The drilling was done using air as a drilling fluid to minimize disturbance to the water content of cores, drill-bit cuttings, and borehole wall-rock. Beginning at the land surface, the unsaturated-zone rock that was penetrated consisted of alluvium; welded and partially to nonwelded ash-flow tuff; bedded and reworked ash-fall tuff; nonwelded ash-flow tuff; and welded ash-flow tuff. Values of gravimetric water content and water potential of alluvium were intermediate between the extreme values in welded and nonwelded units of tuff. Gravimetric water content was largest in bedded and nonwelded ash-fall tuffs and was smallest in welded ash-flow tuff. Values of water potential were more negative in densely welded ash-flow tuffs and were less negative in bedded and nonwelded ash-fall tuffs. Bulk density was largest in densely welded ash-flow tuffs and smallest in nonwelded and bedded ash-fall tuffs. Grain density was uniform but was slightly larger in nonwelded and bedded ash-fall tuffs than in welded ash-flow tuffs. Porosity trends were opposite to bulk-density trends. Tritium content in alluvium was smallest near the alluvium-bedrock contact, markedly increased in the middle of the deposit, and decreased in the near-surface zone of the deposit. (Author 's abstract)

New insights into micro/nanoscale combined probes (nanoAuger, μXPS) to characterize Ag/Au@SiO2 core-shell assemblies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ledeuil, J. B.; Uhart, A.; Soulé, S.; Allouche, J.; Dupin, J. C.; Martinez, H.

2014-09-01

This work has examined the elemental distribution and local morphology at the nanoscale of core@shell Ag/Au@SiO2 particles. The characterization of such complex metal/insulator materials becomes more efficient when using an initial cross-section method of preparation of the core@shell nanoparticles (ion milling cross polisher). The originality of this route of preparation allows one to obtain undamaged, well-defined and planar layers of cross-cut nano-objects. Once combined with high-resolution techniques of characterization (XPS, Auger and SEM), the process appears as a powerful way to minimize charging effects and enhance the outcoming electron signal (potentially affected by the topography of the material) during analysis. SEM experiments have unambiguously revealed the hollow-morphology of the metal core, while Auger spectroscopy observations showed chemical heterogeneity within the particles (as silver and gold are randomly found in the core ring). To our knowledge, this is the first time that Auger nano probe spectroscopy has been used and successfully optimized for the study of some complex metal/inorganic interfaces at such a high degree of resolution (~12 nm). Complementarily, XPS Au 4f and Ag 3d peaks were finally detected attesting the possibility of access to the whole chemistry of such nanostructured assemblies.This work has examined the elemental distribution and local morphology at the nanoscale of core@shell Ag/Au@SiO2 particles. The characterization of such complex metal/insulator materials becomes more efficient when using an initial cross-section method of preparation of the core@shell nanoparticles (ion milling cross polisher). The originality of this route of preparation allows one to obtain undamaged, well-defined and planar layers of cross-cut nano-objects. Once combined with high-resolution techniques of characterization (XPS, Auger and SEM), the process appears as a powerful way to minimize charging effects and enhance the outcoming electron signal (potentially affected by the topography of the material) during analysis. SEM experiments have unambiguously revealed the hollow-morphology of the metal core, while Auger spectroscopy observations showed chemical heterogeneity within the particles (as silver and gold are randomly found in the core ring). To our knowledge, this is the first time that Auger nano probe spectroscopy has been used and successfully optimized for the study of some complex metal/inorganic interfaces at such a high degree of resolution (~12 nm). Complementarily, XPS Au 4f and Ag 3d peaks were finally detected attesting the possibility of access to the whole chemistry of such nanostructured assemblies. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c4nr03211j

Microstructures imply cataclasis and authigenic mineral formation control geomechanical properties of New Zealand's Alpine Fault

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schuck, B.; Janssen, C.; Schleicher, A. M.; Toy, V. G.; Dresen, G.

2018-05-01

The Alpine Fault is capable of generating large (MW > 8) earthquakes and is the main geohazard on South Island, NZ, and late in its 250-291-year seismic cycle. To minimize its hazard potential, it is indispensable to identify and understand the processes influencing the geomechanical behavior and strength-evolution of the fault. High-resolution microstructural, mineralogical and geochemical analyses of the Alpine Fault's core demonstrate wall rock fragmentation, assisted by mineral dissolution, and cementation resulting in the formation of a fine-grained principal slip zone (PSZ). A complex network of anastomosing and mutually cross-cutting calcite veins implies that faulting occurred during episodes of dilation, slip and sealing. Fluid-assisted dilatancy leads to a significant volume increase accommodated by vein formation in the fault core. Undeformed euhedral chlorite crystals and calcite veins that have cut footwall gravels demonstrate that these processes occurred very close to the Earth's surface. Microstructural evidence indicates that cataclastic processes dominate the deformation and we suggest that powder lubrication and grain rolling, particularly influenced by abundant nanoparticles, play a key role in the fault core's velocity-weakening behavior rather than frictional sliding. This is further supported by the absence of smectite, which is reasonable given recently measured geothermal gradients of more than 120 °C km-1 and the impermeable nature of the PSZ, which both limit the growth of this phase and restrict its stability to shallow depths. Our observations demonstrate that high-temperature fluids can influence authigenic mineral formation and thus control the fault's geomechanical behavior and the cyclic evolution of its strength.

Health Systems Science Curricula in Undergraduate Medical Education: Identifying and Defining a Potential Curricular Framework.

PubMed

Gonzalo, Jed D; Dekhtyar, Michael; Starr, Stephanie R; Borkan, Jeffrey; Brunett, Patrick; Fancher, Tonya; Green, Jennifer; Grethlein, Sara Jo; Lai, Cindy; Lawson, Luan; Monrad, Seetha; O'Sullivan, Patricia; Schwartz, Mark D; Skochelak, Susan

2017-01-01

The authors performed a review of 30 Accelerating Change in Medical Education full grant submissions and an analysis of the health systems science (HSS)-related curricula at the 11 grant recipient schools to develop a potential comprehensive HSS curricular framework with domains and subcategories. In phase 1, to identify domains, grant submissions were analyzed and coded using constant comparative analysis. In phase 2, a detailed review of all existing and planned syllabi and curriculum documents at the grantee schools was performed, and content in the core curricular domains was coded into subcategories. The lead investigators reviewed and discussed drafts of the categorization scheme, collapsed and combined domains and subcategories, and resolved disagreements via group discussion. Analysis yielded three types of domains: core, cross-cutting, and linking. Core domains included health care structures and processes; health care policy, economics, and management; clinical informatics and health information technology; population and public health; value-based care; and health system improvement. Cross-cutting domains included leadership and change agency; teamwork and interprofessional education; evidence-based medicine and practice; professionalism and ethics; and scholarship. One linking domain was identified: systems thinking. This broad framework aims to build on the traditional definition of systems-based practice and highlight the need for medical and other health professions schools to better align education programs with the anticipated needs of the systems in which students will practice. HSS will require a critical investigation into existing curricula to determine the most efficient methods for integration with the basic and clinical sciences.

Internal structure, fault rocks, and inferences regarding deformation, fluid flow, and mineralization in the seismogenic Stillwater normal fault, Dixie Valley, Nevada

USGS Publications Warehouse

Caine, Jonathan S.; Bruhn, R.L.; Forster, C.B.

2010-01-01

Outcrop mapping and fault-rock characterization of the Stillwater normal fault zone in Dixie Valley, Nevada are used to document and interpret ancient hydrothermal fluid flow and its possible relationship to seismic deformation. The fault zone is composed of distinct structural and hydrogeological components. Previous work on the fault rocks is extended to the map scale where a distinctive fault core shows a spectrum of different fault-related breccias. These include predominantly clast-supported breccias with angular clasts that are cut by zones containing breccias with rounded clasts that are also clast supported. These are further cut by breccias that are predominantly matrix supported with angular and rounded clasts. The fault-core breccias are surrounded by a heterogeneously fractured damage zone. Breccias are bounded between major, silicified slip surfaces, forming large pod-like structures, systematically oriented with long axes parallel to slip. Matrix-supported breccias have multiply brecciated, angular and rounded clasts revealing episodic deformation and fluid flow. These breccias have a quartz-rich matrix with microcrystalline anhedral, equant, and pervasively conformable mosaic texture. The breccia pods are interpreted to have formed by decompression boiling and rapid precipitation of hydrothermal fluids whose flow was induced by coseismic, hybrid dilatant-shear deformation and hydraulic connection to a geothermal reservoir. The addition of hydrothermal silica cement localized in the core at the map scale causes fault-zone widening, local sealing, and mechanical heterogeneities that impact the evolution of the fault zone throughout the seismic cycle. ?? 2010.

Rock sampling. [method for controlling particle size distribution

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Blum, P. (Inventor)

1971-01-01

A method for sampling rock and other brittle materials and for controlling resultant particle sizes is described. The method involves cutting grooves in the rock surface to provide a grouping of parallel ridges and subsequently machining the ridges to provide a powder specimen. The machining step may comprise milling, drilling, lathe cutting or the like; but a planing step is advantageous. Control of the particle size distribution is effected primarily by changing the height and width of these ridges. This control exceeds that obtainable by conventional grinding.

A core handling device for the Mars Sample Return Mission

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gwynne, Owen

1989-01-01

A core handling device for use on Mars is being designed. To provide a context for the design study, it was assumed that a Mars Rover/Sample Return (MRSR) Mission would have the following characteristics: a year or more in length; visits by the rover to 50 or more sites; 100 or more meter-long cores being drilled by the rover; and the capability of returning about 5 kg of Mars regolith to Earth. These characteristics lead to the belief that in order to bring back a variegated set of samples that can address the range of scientific objetives for a MRSR mission to Mars there needs to be considerable analysis done on board the rover. Furthermore, the discrepancy between the amount of sample gathered and the amount to be returned suggests that there needs to be some method of choosing the optimal set of samples. This type of analysis will require pristine material-unaltered by the drilling process. Since the core drill thermally and mechanically alters the outer diameter (about 10 pct) of the core sample, this outer area cannot be used. The primary function of the core handling device is to extract subsamples from the core and to position these subsamples, and the core itself if needed, with respect to the various analytical instruments that can be used to perform these analyses.

Transfer of Escherichia coli O157:H7 from equipment surfaces to fresh-cut leafy greens during processing in a model pilot-plant production line with sanitizer-free water.

PubMed

Buchholz, Annemarie L; Davidson, Gordon R; Marks, Bradley P; Todd, Ewen C D; Ryser, Elliot T

2012-11-01

Escherichia coli O157:H7 contamination of fresh-cut leafy greens has become a public health concern as a result of several large outbreaks. The goal of this study was to generate baseline data for E. coli O157:H7 transfer from product-inoculated equipment surfaces to uninoculated lettuce during pilot-scale processing without a sanitizer. Uninoculated cored heads of iceberg and romaine lettuce (22.7 kg) were processed using a commercial shredder, step conveyor, 3.3-m flume tank with sanitizer-free tap water, shaker table, and centrifugal dryer, followed by 22.7 kg of product that had been dip inoculated to contain ∼10(6), 10(4), or 10(2) CFU/g of a four-strain avirulent, green fluorescent protein-labeled, ampicillin-resistant E. coli O157:H7 cocktail. After draining the flume tank and refilling the holding tank with tap water, 90.8 kg of uninoculated product was similarly processed and collected in ∼5-kg aliquots. After processing, 42 equipment surface samples and 46 iceberg or 36 romaine lettuce samples (25 g each) from the collection baskets were quantitatively examined for E. coli O157:H7 by direct plating or membrane filtration using tryptic soy agar containing 0.6% yeast extract and 100 ppm of ampicillin. Initially, the greatest E. coli O157:H7 transfer was seen from inoculated lettuce to the shredder and conveyor belt, with all equipment surface populations decreasing 90 to 99% after processing 90.8 kg of uncontaminated product. After processing lettuce containing 10(6) or 10(4) E. coli O157:H7 CFU/g followed by uninoculated lettuce, E. coli O157:H7 was quantifiable throughout the entire 90.8 kg of product. At an inoculation level of 10(2) CFU/g, E. coli O157:H7 was consistently detected in the first 21.2 kg of previously uninoculated lettuce at 2 to 3 log CFU/100 g and transferred to 78 kg of product. These baseline E. coli O157:H7 transfer results will help determine the degree of sanitizer efficacy required to better ensure the safety of fresh-cut leafy greens.