Low-voltage cross-sectional EBIC for characterisation of GaN-based light emitting devices.

PubMed

Moldovan, Grigore; Kazemian, Payam; Edwards, Paul R; Ong, Vincent K S; Kurniawan, Oka; Humphreys, Colin J

2007-01-01

Electron beam induced current (EBIC) characterisation can provide detailed information on the influence of crystalline defects on the diffusion and recombination of minority carriers in semiconductors. New developments are required for GaN light emitting devices, which need a cross-sectional approach to provide access to their complex multi-layered structures. A sample preparation approach based on low-voltage Ar ion milling is proposed here and shown to produce a flat cross-section with very limited surface recombination, which enables low-voltage high resolution EBIC characterisation. Dark defects are observed in EBIC images and correlation with cathodoluminescence images identify them as threading dislocations. Emphasis is placed on one-dimensional quantification which is used to show that junction delineation with very good spatial resolution can be achieved, revealing significant roughening of this GaN p-n junction. Furthermore, longer minority carrier diffusion lengths along the c-axis are found at dislocation sites, in both p-GaN and the multi-quantum well (MQW) region. This is attributed to gettering of point defects at threading dislocations in p-GaN and higher escape rate from quantum wells at dislocation sites in the MQW region, respectively. These developments show considerable promise for the use of low-voltage cross-sectional EBIC in the characterisation of point and extended defects in GaN-based devices and it is suggested that this technique will be particularly useful for degradation analysis.

Defect characterization of silicon dendritic web ribbons

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cheng, L. J.

1985-01-01

Progress made in the study of defect characterization of silicon dendritic web ribbon is presented. Chemical etching is used combined with optical microscopy, as well as the electron beam induced current (EBIC) technique. Thermal annealing effect on carrier lifetime is examined.

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

Zhou, T.Q.; Buczkowski, A.; Radzimski, Z.J.

The electrical activity of as-grown and intentionally decorated misfit dislocations in an epitaxial Si/Si(Ge) heterostructure was examined using the electron beam induced current (EBIC) technique in a scanning electron microscope. Misfit dislocations, which were not visible initially, were subsequently activated either by an unknown processing contaminant or a backside metallic impurity. Passivation of these contaminated dislocations was then studied using low energy deuterium ion implantation in a Kaufman ion source. EBIC results show that the recombination activity of the decorated misfit dislocations was dramatically reduced by the deuterium treatment. Although a front side passivation treatment was more effective than amore » backside treatment, a surface ion bombardment damage problem is still evident. 5 refs., 3 figs.« less

Electron-beam-induced current at absorber back surfaces of Cu(In,Ga)Se{sub 2} thin-film solar cells

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

Kavalakkatt, J.; Abou-Ras, D., E-mail: daniel.abou-ras@helmholtz-berlin.de; Nichterwitz, M.

2014-01-07

The present work reports on investigations of the influence of the microstructure on electronic properties of Cu(In,Ga)Se{sub 2} (CIGSe) thin-film solar cells. For this purpose, ZnO/CdS/CIGSe stacks of these solar cells were lifted off the Mo-coated glass substrates. The exposed CIGSe backsides of these stacks were investigated by means of electron-beam-induced current (EBIC) and cathodoluminescence (CL) measurements as well as by electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD). EBIC and CL profiles across grain boundaries (GBs), which were identified by EBSD, do not show any significant changes at Σ3 GBs. Across non-Σ3 GBs, on the other hand, the CL signals exhibit local minimamore » with varying peak values, while by means of EBIC, decreased and also increased short-circuit current values are measured. Overall, EBIC and CL signals change across non-Σ3 GBs always differently. This complex situation was found in various CIGSe thin films with different [Ga]/([In]+[Ga]) and [Cu]/([In]+[Ga]) ratios. A part of the EBIC profiles exhibiting reduced signals across non-Σ3 GBs can be approximated by a simple model based on diffusion of generated charge carriers to the GBs.« less

High Resolution Dopant Profiles Revealed by Atom Probe Tomography and STEM-EBIC for CdTe Based Solar Cells

DOE PAGES

Poplawsky, Jonathan D.; Li, Chen; Paudel, Naba; ...

2016-01-01

Segregated elements and their diffusion profiles within grain boundaries and interfaces resulting from post deposition heat treatments are revealed using atom probe tomography (APT), scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), and electron beam induced current (EBIC) techniques. The results demonstrate how these techniques complement each other to provide conclusive evidence for locations of space charge regions and mechanisms that create them at the nanoscale. Most importantly, a Cl dopant profile that extends ~5 nm into CdTe grains interfacing the CdS is shown using APT and STEM synergy, which has been shown to push the pn-junction into the CdTe layer indicative ofmore » a homojunction (revealed by STEM EBIC). In addition, Cu and Cl concentrations within grain boundaries within several nms and µms from the CdS/CdTe interface are compared, Na segregation of <0.1% is detected, and S variations of ~1–3% are witnessed between CdTe grains close to the CdS/CdTe interface. The segregation and diffusion of these elements directly impacts on the material properties, such as band gap energy and n/p type properties. Optimization of the interfacial and grain boundary doping will lead to higher efficiency solar cells.« less

Exploratory graph analysis: A new approach for estimating the number of dimensions in psychological research

PubMed Central

Golino, Hudson F.; Epskamp, Sacha

2017-01-01

The estimation of the correct number of dimensions is a long-standing problem in psychometrics. Several methods have been proposed, such as parallel analysis (PA), Kaiser-Guttman’s eigenvalue-greater-than-one rule, multiple average partial procedure (MAP), the maximum-likelihood approaches that use fit indexes as BIC and EBIC and the less used and studied approach called very simple structure (VSS). In the present paper a new approach to estimate the number of dimensions will be introduced and compared via simulation to the traditional techniques pointed above. The approach proposed in the current paper is called exploratory graph analysis (EGA), since it is based on the graphical lasso with the regularization parameter specified using EBIC. The number of dimensions is verified using the walktrap, a random walk algorithm used to identify communities in networks. In total, 32,000 data sets were simulated to fit known factor structures, with the data sets varying across different criteria: number of factors (2 and 4), number of items (5 and 10), sample size (100, 500, 1000 and 5000) and correlation between factors (orthogonal, .20, .50 and .70), resulting in 64 different conditions. For each condition, 500 data sets were simulated using lavaan. The result shows that the EGA performs comparable to parallel analysis, EBIC, eBIC and to Kaiser-Guttman rule in a number of situations, especially when the number of factors was two. However, EGA was the only technique able to correctly estimate the number of dimensions in the four-factor structure when the correlation between factors were .7, showing an accuracy of 100% for a sample size of 5,000 observations. Finally, the EGA was used to estimate the number of factors in a real dataset, in order to compare its performance with the other six techniques tested in the simulation study. PMID:28594839

Exploratory graph analysis: A new approach for estimating the number of dimensions in psychological research.

PubMed

Golino, Hudson F; Epskamp, Sacha

2017-01-01

The estimation of the correct number of dimensions is a long-standing problem in psychometrics. Several methods have been proposed, such as parallel analysis (PA), Kaiser-Guttman's eigenvalue-greater-than-one rule, multiple average partial procedure (MAP), the maximum-likelihood approaches that use fit indexes as BIC and EBIC and the less used and studied approach called very simple structure (VSS). In the present paper a new approach to estimate the number of dimensions will be introduced and compared via simulation to the traditional techniques pointed above. The approach proposed in the current paper is called exploratory graph analysis (EGA), since it is based on the graphical lasso with the regularization parameter specified using EBIC. The number of dimensions is verified using the walktrap, a random walk algorithm used to identify communities in networks. In total, 32,000 data sets were simulated to fit known factor structures, with the data sets varying across different criteria: number of factors (2 and 4), number of items (5 and 10), sample size (100, 500, 1000 and 5000) and correlation between factors (orthogonal, .20, .50 and .70), resulting in 64 different conditions. For each condition, 500 data sets were simulated using lavaan. The result shows that the EGA performs comparable to parallel analysis, EBIC, eBIC and to Kaiser-Guttman rule in a number of situations, especially when the number of factors was two. However, EGA was the only technique able to correctly estimate the number of dimensions in the four-factor structure when the correlation between factors were .7, showing an accuracy of 100% for a sample size of 5,000 observations. Finally, the EGA was used to estimate the number of factors in a real dataset, in order to compare its performance with the other six techniques tested in the simulation study.

EBIC investigation of hydrogenation of crystal defects in EFG solar silicon ribbons

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sullivan, T.; Ast, D. G.

1983-01-01

Changes in the contrast and resolution of defect structures in 205 Ohm-cm EFG polysilicon ribbon subjected to annealing and hydrogenation treatments were observed in a JEOL 733 Superprobe scanning electron microscope, using electron beam induced current (EBIC) collected at an A1 Schottky barrier. The Schottky barrier was formed by evaporation of A1 onto the cleaned and polished surface of the ribbon material. Measurement of beam energy, beam current, and the current induced in the Schottky diode enabled observations to be quantified. Exposure to hydrogen plasma increased charge collection efficiency. However, no simple causal relationship between the hydrogenation and charge collection efficiency could be inferred, because the collection efficiency also displayed an unexpected thermal dependence. Good quality intermediate-magnification (1000X-5400X) EBIC micrographs of several specific defect structures were obtained. Comparison of grown-in and stress-induced dislocations after annealing in vacuum at 500 C revealed that stress-induced dislocations are hydrogenated to a much greater degree than grown-in dislocations. The theoretical approximations used to predict EBIC contrast and resolution may not be entirely adequate to describe them under high beam energy and low beam current conditions.

Recombination-related properties of a-screw dislocations in GaN: A combined CL, EBIC, TEM study

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

Medvedev, O. S., E-mail: o.s.medvedev@spbu.ru; Mikhailovskii, V. Yu.; IRC for Nanotechnology, Research Park, St.-Petersburg State University

2016-06-17

Cathodoluminescence (CL), electron beam current (EBIC) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques have been applied to investigate recombination properties and structure of freshly introduced dislocations in low-ohmic GaN crystals. It was confirmed that the only a-screw dislocations exhibited an intense characteristic dislocation-related luminescence (DRL) which persisted up to room temperature and was red-shifted by about 0.3 eV with respect to the band gap energy not only in HVPE but also in MOCVD grown samples. EBIC contrast of the dislocations was found to be temperature independent indicating that the dislocation-related recombination level is situated below 200 meV with respect of conductionmore » band minimum. With the increasing of the magnification of the dislocation TEM cross-sectional images they were found to disappear, probably, due to the recombination enhanced dislocation glide (REDG) under electron beam exposure which was immediately observed in CL investigations on a large scale. The stacking fault ribbon in the core of dissociated a-screw dislocation which form a quantum well for electrons was proposed to play an important role both in DRL spectrum formation and in REDG.« less

Imaging interfacial electrical transport in graphene–MoS{sub 2} heterostructures with electron-beam-induced-currents

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

White, E. R., E-mail: ewhite@physics.ucla.edu; Kerelsky, Alexander; Hubbard, William A.

2015-11-30

Heterostructure devices with specific and extraordinary properties can be fabricated by stacking two-dimensional crystals. Cleanliness at the inter-crystal interfaces within a heterostructure is crucial for maximizing device performance. However, because these interfaces are buried, characterizing their impact on device function is challenging. Here, we show that electron-beam induced current (EBIC) mapping can be used to image interfacial contamination and to characterize the quality of buried heterostructure interfaces with nanometer-scale spatial resolution. We applied EBIC and photocurrent imaging to map photo-sensitive graphene-MoS{sub 2} heterostructures. The EBIC maps, together with concurrently acquired scanning transmission electron microscopy images, reveal how a device's photocurrentmore » collection efficiency is adversely affected by nanoscale debris invisible to optical-resolution photocurrent mapping.« less

An EBIC study of dislocation networks in unprocessed and unprocessed web silicon ribbon. [for solar cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fieldler, F. S.; Ast, D.

1982-01-01

Experimental techniques for the preparation of electron beam induced current samples of Web-dentritic silicon are described. Both as grown and processed material were investigated. High density dislocation networks were found close to twin planes in the bulk of the material. The electrical activity of these networks is reduced in processed material.

Exploring the Electronic Landscape at Interfaces and Junctions in Semiconductor Nanowire Devices with Subsurface Local Probing of Carrier Dynamics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McGuckin, Terrence

The solid state devices that are pervasive in our society, are based on building blocks composed of interfaces between materials and junctions that manipulate how charge carriers behave in a device. As the dimensions of these devices are reduced to the nanoscale, surfaces and interfaces play a larger role in the behavior of carriers in devices and must be thoroughly investigated to understand not only the material properties but how these materials interact. Separating the effects of these different building blocks is a challenge, as most testing methods measure the performance of the whole device. Semiconductor nanowires represent an excellent test system to explore the limits of size and novel device structures. The behavior of charge carriers in semiconductor nanowire devices under operational conditions is investigated using local probing technique electron beam induced current (EBIC). The behavior of locally excited carriers are driven by the forces of drift, from electric fields within a device at junctions, surfaces, contacts and, applied voltage bias, and diffusion. This thesis presents the results of directly measuring these effects spatially with nanometer resolution, using EBIC in Ge, Si, and complex heterostructure GaAs/AlGaAs nanowire devices. Advancements to the EBIC technique, have pushed the resolution from tens of nanometers down to 1 to 2 nanometers. Depth profiling and tuning of the interaction volume allows for the separating the signal originating from the surface and the interior of the nanowire. Radial junctions and variations in bands can now be analyzed including core/shell hetero-structures. This local carrier probing reveals a number of surprising behaviors; Most notably, directly imaging the evolution of surface traps filling with electrons causing bandbending at the surface of Ge nanowires that leads to an enhancement in the charge separation of electrons and holes, and extracting different characteristic lengths from GaAs and AlGaAs in core/shell nanowires. For new and emerging solid state materials, understanding charge carrier dynamics is crucial to designing functional devices. Presented here are examples of the wide application of EBIC, and its variants, through imaging domains in ferroelectric materials, local electric fields and defects in 2D semiconductor material MoS2, and gradients in doping profiles of solar cells. Measuring the local behavior of carrier dynamics, EBIC has the potential to be a key metrology technique in correlative microscopy, enabling a deeper understanding of materials and how they interact within devices.

An EBIC study of HEM polycrystalline silicon

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koch, T.; Ast, D.

1982-01-01

Low-cost silicon for solar cells grown by the heat exchanger method (HEM) was studied in the electron beam induced current (EBIC) mode of a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Comparisons were made between the defects observed optically and the recombination centers visible in EBIC. Much of the HEM material was single crystalline, but structural defects were found from areas near the corners of the grown material. Most of these defects consisted of linear twin boundaries and grain boundaries. The electrical activity of these boundaries was dependent on symmetry of the boundaries. Symmetric twin boundaries did not exhibit recombination activity while unsymmetric twin boundaries were electrically active.

Silicon solar cell fabrication technology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stafsudd, O. M.

1979-01-01

The laser cell scanner was used to characterize a number of solar cells made in various materials. An electron beam-induced current (EBIC) study was performed using a stereoscan scanning electron microscope. Planar p-n junctions were analyzed. A theory for the EBIC based on the analytical solution of the ambipolar diffusion equation under the influence of electron beam excitation parameter z (which is related to beam penetration), the junction depth Z sub j, the beam current and the surface recombination, was formulated and tested. The effect of a grain boundary was studied.

Comprehensive Characterization of Extended Defects in Semiconductor Materials by a Scanning Electron Microscope.

PubMed

Hieckmann, Ellen; Nacke, Markus; Allardt, Matthias; Bodrov, Yury; Chekhonin, Paul; Skrotzki, Werner; Weber, Jörg

2016-05-28

Extended defects such as dislocations and grain boundaries have a strong influence on the performance of microelectronic devices and on other applications of semiconductor materials. However, it is still under debate how the defect structure determines the band structure, and therefore, the recombination behavior of electron-hole pairs responsible for the optical and electrical properties of the extended defects. The present paper is a survey of procedures for the spatially resolved investigation of structural and of physical properties of extended defects in semiconductor materials with a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Representative examples are given for crystalline silicon. The luminescence behavior of extended defects can be investigated by cathodoluminescence (CL) measurements. They are particularly valuable because spectrally and spatially resolved information can be obtained simultaneously. For silicon, with an indirect electronic band structure, CL measurements should be carried out at low temperatures down to 5 K due to the low fraction of radiative recombination processes in comparison to non-radiative transitions at room temperature. For the study of the electrical properties of extended defects, the electron beam induced current (EBIC) technique can be applied. The EBIC image reflects the local distribution of defects due to the increased charge-carrier recombination in their vicinity. The procedure for EBIC investigations is described for measurements at room temperature and at low temperatures. Internal strain fields arising from extended defects can be determined quantitatively by cross-correlation electron backscatter diffraction (ccEBSD). This method is challenging because of the necessary preparation of the sample surface and because of the quality of the diffraction patterns which are recorded during the mapping of the sample. The spatial resolution of the three experimental techniques is compared.

Comprehensive Characterization of Extended Defects in Semiconductor Materials by a Scanning Electron Microscope

PubMed Central

Hieckmann, Ellen; Nacke, Markus; Allardt, Matthias; Bodrov, Yury; Chekhonin, Paul; Skrotzki, Werner; Weber, Jörg

2016-01-01

Extended defects such as dislocations and grain boundaries have a strong influence on the performance of microelectronic devices and on other applications of semiconductor materials. However, it is still under debate how the defect structure determines the band structure, and therefore, the recombination behavior of electron-hole pairs responsible for the optical and electrical properties of the extended defects. The present paper is a survey of procedures for the spatially resolved investigation of structural and of physical properties of extended defects in semiconductor materials with a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Representative examples are given for crystalline silicon. The luminescence behavior of extended defects can be investigated by cathodoluminescence (CL) measurements. They are particularly valuable because spectrally and spatially resolved information can be obtained simultaneously. For silicon, with an indirect electronic band structure, CL measurements should be carried out at low temperatures down to 5 K due to the low fraction of radiative recombination processes in comparison to non-radiative transitions at room temperature. For the study of the electrical properties of extended defects, the electron beam induced current (EBIC) technique can be applied. The EBIC image reflects the local distribution of defects due to the increased charge-carrier recombination in their vicinity. The procedure for EBIC investigations is described for measurements at room temperature and at low temperatures. Internal strain fields arising from extended defects can be determined quantitatively by cross-correlation electron backscatter diffraction (ccEBSD). This method is challenging because of the necessary preparation of the sample surface and because of the quality of the diffraction patterns which are recorded during the mapping of the sample. The spatial resolution of the three experimental techniques is compared. PMID:27285177

Axial p-n junction and space charge limited current in single GaN nanowire.

PubMed

Fang, Zhihua; Donatini, Fabrice; Daudin, Bruno; Pernot, Julien

2018-01-05

The electrical characterizations of individual basic GaN nanostructures, such as axial nanowire (NW) p-n junctions, are becoming indispensable and crucial for the fully controlled realization of GaN NW based devices. In this study, electron beam induced current (EBIC) measurements were performed on two single axial GaN p-n junction NWs grown by plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy. I-V characteristics revealed that both ohmic and space charge limited current (SCLC) regimes occur in GaN p-n junction NW. Thanks to an improved contact process, both the electric field induced by the p-n junction and the SCLC in the p-part of GaN NW were disclosed and delineated by EBIC signals under different biases. Analyzing the EBIC profiles in the vicinity of the p-n junction under 0 V and reverse bias, we deduced a depletion width in the range of 116-125 nm. Following our previous work, the acceptor N a doping level was estimated to be 2-3 × 10 17 at cm -3 assuming a donor level N d of 2-3 × 10 18 at cm -3 . The hole diffusion length in n-GaN was determined to be 75 nm for NW #1 and 43 nm for NW #2, demonstrating a low surface recombination velocity at the m-plane facet of n-GaN NW. Under forward bias, EBIC imaging visualized the electric field induced by the SCLC close to p-side contact, in agreement with unusual SCLC previously reported in GaN NWs.

Axial p-n junction and space charge limited current in single GaN nanowire

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fang, Zhihua; Donatini, Fabrice; Daudin, Bruno; Pernot, Julien

2018-01-01

The electrical characterizations of individual basic GaN nanostructures, such as axial nanowire (NW) p-n junctions, are becoming indispensable and crucial for the fully controlled realization of GaN NW based devices. In this study, electron beam induced current (EBIC) measurements were performed on two single axial GaN p-n junction NWs grown by plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy. I-V characteristics revealed that both ohmic and space charge limited current (SCLC) regimes occur in GaN p-n junction NW. Thanks to an improved contact process, both the electric field induced by the p-n junction and the SCLC in the p-part of GaN NW were disclosed and delineated by EBIC signals under different biases. Analyzing the EBIC profiles in the vicinity of the p-n junction under 0 V and reverse bias, we deduced a depletion width in the range of 116-125 nm. Following our previous work, the acceptor N a doping level was estimated to be 2-3 × 1017 at cm-3 assuming a donor level N d of 2-3 × 1018 at cm-3. The hole diffusion length in n-GaN was determined to be 75 nm for NW #1 and 43 nm for NW #2, demonstrating a low surface recombination velocity at the m-plane facet of n-GaN NW. Under forward bias, EBIC imaging visualized the electric field induced by the SCLC close to p-side contact, in agreement with unusual SCLC previously reported in GaN NWs.

Effect of Crystal Defects on Minority Carrier Diffusion Length in 6H SiC Measured Using the Electron Beam Induced Current Method

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tabib-Azar, Massood

1997-01-01

We report values of minority carrier diffusion length in n-type 6H SiC measured using a planar Electron Beam Induced Current (EBIC) method. Values of hole diffusion length in defect free regions of n-type 6H SiC, with a doping concentration of 1.7El7 1/cu cm, ranged from 1.46 microns to 0.68 microns. We next introduce a novel variation of the planar method used above. This 'planar mapping' technique measured diffusion length along a linescan creating a map of diffusion length versus position. This map is then overlaid onto the EBIC image of the corresponding linescan, allowing direct visualization of the effect of defects on minority carrier diffusion length. Measurements of the above n-type 6H SiC resulted in values of hole diffusion length ranging from 1.2 micron in defect free regions to below 0.1 gm at the center of large defects. In addition, measurements on p-type 6H SiC resulted in electron diffusion lengths ranging from 1.42 micron to 0.8 micron.

Radiation response of multi-quantum well solar cells: Electron-beam-induced current analysis

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

Maximenko, S. I., E-mail: sergey.maximenko@nrl.navy.mil; Scheiman, D. A.; Jenkins, P. P.

Solar cells utilizing multi-quantum well (MQW) structures are considered promising candidate materials for space applications. An open question is how well these structures can resist the impact of particle irradiation. The aim of this work is to provide feedback about the radiation response of In{sub 0.01}Ga{sub 0.99}As solar cells grown on Ge with MQWs incorporated within the i-region of the device. In particular, the local electronic transport properties of the MQW i-regions of solar cells subjected to electron and proton irradiation were evaluated experimentally using the electron beam induced current (EBIC) technique. The change in carrier collection distribution across themore » MQW i-region was analyzed using a 2D EBIC diffusion model in conjunction with numerical modeling of the electrical field distribution. Both experimental and simulated findings show carrier removal and type conversion from n- to p-type in MQW i-region at a displacement damage dose as low as ∼6.06–9.88 × 10{sup 9} MeV/g. This leads to a redistribution of the electric field and significant degradation in charge carrier collection.« less

EBIC: an evolutionary-based parallel biclustering algorithm for pattern discovery.

PubMed

Orzechowski, Patryk; Sipper, Moshe; Huang, Xiuzhen; Moore, Jason H

2018-05-22

Biclustering algorithms are commonly used for gene expression data analysis. However, accurate identification of meaningful structures is very challenging and state-of-the-art methods are incapable of discovering with high accuracy different patterns of high biological relevance. In this paper a novel biclustering algorithm based on evolutionary computation, a subfield of artificial intelligence (AI), is introduced. The method called EBIC aims to detect order-preserving patterns in complex data. EBIC is capable of discovering multiple complex patterns with unprecedented accuracy in real gene expression datasets. It is also one of the very few biclustering methods designed for parallel environments with multiple graphics processing units (GPUs). We demonstrate that EBIC greatly outperforms state-of-the-art biclustering methods, in terms of recovery and relevance, on both synthetic and genetic datasets. EBIC also yields results over 12 times faster than the most accurate reference algorithms. EBIC source code is available on GitHub at https://github.com/EpistasisLab/ebic. Correspondence and requests for materials should be addressed to P.O. (email: patryk.orzechowski@gmail.com) and J.H.M. (email: jhmoore@upenn.edu). Supplementary Data with results of analyses and additional information on the method is available at Bioinformatics online.

Defect and field-enhancement characterization through electron-beam-induced current analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Umezawa, Hitoshi; Gima, Hiroki; Driche, Khaled; Kato, Yukako; Yoshitake, Tsuyoshi; Mokuno, Yoshiaki; Gheeraert, Etienne

2017-05-01

To investigate the effects of defects and field enhancement in diamond power devices, a biased Schottky barrier diode was characterized by electron-beam-induced current (EBIC) analysis. The nonuniform distribution of the electrical field was revealed by bright spots on the laterally expanded depletion layer of the EBIC intensity map when the applied electrical field exceeded 0.95 MV/cm. The nonuniformity is partly due to a structural effect: the roughness at the edge of the Schottky electrode, induced by lithography and lift-off processes. A second family of spots was shown to increase the leakage current of the device. The time constant associated with this second spot family was 0.98 ms, which is three orders of magnitude shorter than that for defects previously characterized by deep-level transient spectroscopy.

Extended generation profile - E.B.I.C model application in the case of a PN junction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guermazi, S.; Toureille, A.; Grill, C.; El Jani, B.

2000-01-01

We have developed a model for the calculation of the induced current due to an electron beam with an extended generation profile. Added to the absorbed and diffuse electrons in the depth distribution, the generation profile takes into account the lateral diffusion. The analytical expression of the electron beam induced current (EBIC) is obtained by solving the continuity equation in permanent regime by the Green function method. The induced current profile, obtained in the case of a ternary component (Ga{0.7}Al{0.3}As:N^+/Ga{0.7}Al{0.3}As:P) sulfur doped and prepared by organometallic compounds phase vapor epitaxy method, is compared to the theoretical profiles whose analytical expressions are given by Van Roosbroeck and Bresse. The experimental current profile, measured by S.E.M provided us to calculate the diffusion length of the minority carriers: L_p=1 μm in the N region and L_n=1.80 μm in the P region of the ternaire component. The theoretical curve obtained from the proposed model is in good agreement with the experimental one for a surface recombination velocity of 10^6 cm s^{-1}. Our results are found to be consistent compared to those obtained by other experimental techniques using the same samples. Nous avons développé un modèle de calcul du courant induit par un faisceau d'électrons avec un profil de génération élargi. Le profil de génération prend en compte la répartition spatiale de la diffusion et de l'absorption des électrons. L'expression analytique du courant induit (E.B.I.C) est déterminée par résolution de l'équation de continuité en régime permanent par la méthode des fonctions de Green. Le profil de courant induit obtenu dans le cas d'une jonction PN (Ga{0,7}Al{0,3}As:N^+/Ga{0,7}Al{0,3}As:P) dopée par le soufre et préparée par épitaxie à phase vapeur organo-métallique, est comparé au profil de courant théorique dont l'expression analytique est explicitée par Van Roosbroeck et Bresse. Le profil expérimental de courant E.B.I.C, mesuré par un microscope électronique à balayage, nous a permis de déterminer la longueur de diffusion des porteurs minoritaires L_p=1 μm dans la région N du composant ternaire et L_n=1,8 μm dans la région P de ce composant. La courbe théorique, tracée à partir du modèle proposé, est en bon accord avec la courbe expérimentale pour une vitesse de recombinaison à la surface de 10^6 cm s^{-1}. Ces résultats sont conformes avec ceux obtenus par d'autres techniques expérimentales sur les mêmes échantillons.

Analysis of a Memory Device Failure

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nicolas, David P.; Devaney, John; Gores, Mark; Dicken, Howard

1998-01-01

The recent failure of a vintage memory device presented a unique challenge to failure analysts. Normally device layouts, fabrication parameters and other technical information were available to assist the analyst in the analysis. However, this device was out of production for many years and the manufacturer was no longer in business, so the information was not available. To further complicate this analysis, the package leads were all but removed making additional electrical testing difficult. Under these conditions, new and innovative methods were used to analyze the failure. The external visual exam, radiography, PIND, and leak testing were performed with nominal results. Since electrical testing was precluded by the short lead lengths, the device was delidded to expose the internal structures for microscopic examination. No failure mechanism was identified. The available electrical data suggested an ESD or low level EOS type mechanism which left no visible surface damage. Due to parallel electrical paths, electrical probing on the chip failed to locate the failure site. Two non-destructive Scanning Electron Microscopy techniques, CIVA (Charge Induced Voltage Alteration) and EBIC (Electron Beam Induced Current), and a liquid crystal decoration technique which detects localized heating were employed to aid in the analysis. CIVA and EBIC isolated two faults in the input circuitry, and the liquid crystal technique further localized two hot spots in regions on two input gates. Removal of the glassivation and metallization revealed multiple failure sites located in the gate oxide of two input transistors suggesting machine (testing) induced damage.

Choice of range-energy relationship for the analysis of electron-beam-induced-current line scans

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luke, Keung, L.

1994-07-01

The electron range in a material is an important parameter in the analysis of electron-beam-induced-current (EBIC) line scans. Both the Kanaya-Okayama (KO) and Everhart-Hoff (EH) range-energy relationships have been widely used by investigators for this purpose. Although the KO range is significantly larer than the EH range, no study has been done to examine the effect of choosing one range over the other on the values of the surface recombination velocity S(sub T) and minority-carrier diffusion length L evaluated from EBICF line scans. Such a study has been carried out, focusing on two major questions: (1) When the KO range is used in different reported methods to evaluate either or both S(sub T) and L from EBIC line scans, how different are their values thus determined in comparison to those using the EH range?; (2) from EBIC line scans of a given material, is there a way to discriminate between the KO and the EH ranges which should be used to analyze these scans? Answers to these questions are presented to assist investigators in extracting more reliable values of either or both S(sub T) and L and in finding the right range to use in the analysis of these line scans.

Microdistribution of oxygen in silicon

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Murgai, A.; Chi, J. Y.; Gatos, H. C.

1980-01-01

The microdistribution of oxygen in Czochralskii-grown, p-type silicon crystals was determined by using the SEM in the EBIC mode in conjunction with spreading resistance measurements. When the conductivity remained p-type, bands of contrast were observed in the EBIC image which corresponded to maxima in resistivity. When at the oxygen concentration maxima the oxygen donor concentration exceeded the p-type dopant concentration, an inversion of the conductivity occurred. It resulted in the formation of p-n junctions in a striated configuration and the local inversion of the EBIC image contrast. By heat-treating silicon at 1000 C prior to the activation of oxygen donors, some silicon-oxygen micro-precipitates were observed in the EBIC image within the striated oxygen concentration maxima.

Correlation of EBIC and SWBXT Imaged Defects and Epilayer Growth Pits in 6H-SiC Schottky Diodes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schnable, C. M.; Tabib-Azar, M.; Neudeck, P. G.; Bailey, S. G.; Su, H. B.; Dudley, M.; Raffaelle, R. P.

2000-01-01

We show the first direct experimental correlation between the presence of closed core screw dislocations in 6H-SiC epilayers with recombination centers, as well as with some of the small growth pits on the epilayer surface in lightly-doped 6H-SiC Schottky diodes. At every Synchrotron White-Beam X-ray Topography (SWBXT)-identified closed core screw dislocation, an Electron Beam Induced Current (EBIC) image showed a dark spot indicating a recombination center, and Nomarski optical microscope and Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) images showed a corresponding small growth pit with a sharp apex on the surface of the epilayer.

TEM and SEM (EBIC) investigations of silicon bicrystals

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gleichmann, R.; Ast, D. G.

1983-01-01

The electrical and structural properties of low and medium angle tilt grain boundaries in silicon bicrystals were studied in order to obtain insight into the mechanisms determining the recombination activity. The electrical behavior of these grain boundaries was studied with the EBIC technique. Schottky barriers rather than p-n junctions were used to avoid annealing induced changes of the structure and impurity content of the as-grown crystals. Transmission electron spectroscopy reveals that the 20 deg boundary is straight, homogeneous, and free of extrinsic dislocations. It is concluded that, in the samples studied, the electrical effect of grain boundaries appears to be independent of the boundary misorientation. The dominant influence appears to be impurity segregation effects to the boundary. Cleaner bicrystals are required to study intrinsic differences in the electrical activity of the two boundaries.

Diffusion length measurements in bulk and epitaxially grown 3-5 semiconductors using charge collection microscopy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Leon, R. P.

1987-01-01

Diffusion lengths and surface recombination velocities were measured in GaAs diodes and InP finished solar cells. The basic techniques used was charge collection microscopy also known as electron beam induced current (EBIC). The normalized currents and distances from the pn junction were read directly from the calibrated curves obtained while using the line scan mode in an SEM. These values were then equated to integral and infinite series expressions resulting from the solution of the diffusion equation with both extended generation and point generation functions. This expands previous work by examining both thin and thick samples. The surface recombination velocity was either treated as an unknown in a system of two equations, or measured directly using low e(-) beam accelerating voltages. These techniques give accurate results by accounting for the effects of surface recombination and the finite size of the generation volume.

Correlation between morphological defects, electron beam-induced current imaging, and the electrical properties of 4H-SiC Schottky diodes

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

Wang, Y.; Ali, G.N.; Mikhov, M.K.

2005-01-01

Defects in SiC degrade the electrical properties and yield of devices made from this material. This article examines morphological defects in 4H-SiC and defects visible in electron beam-induced current (EBIC) images and their effects on the electrical characteristics of Schottky diodes. Optical Nomarski microscopy and atomic force microscopy were used to observe the morphological defects, which are classified into 26 types based on appearance alone. Forward and reverse current-voltage characteristics were used to extract barrier heights, ideality factors, and breakdown voltages. Barrier heights decrease about linearly with increasing ideality factor, which is explained by discrete patches of low barrier heightmore » within the main contact. Barrier height, ideality, and breakdown voltage all degrade with increasing device diameter, suggesting that discrete defects are responsible. Electroluminescence was observed under reverse bias from microplasmas associated with defects containing micropipes. EBIC measurements reveal several types of features corresponding to recombination centers. The density of dark spots observed by EBIC correlates strongly with ideality factor and barrier height. Most morphological defects do not affect the reverse characteristics when no micropipes are present, but lower the barrier height and worsen the ideality factor. However, certain multiple-tailed defects, irregularly shaped defects and triangular defects with 3C inclusions substantially degrade both breakdown voltage and barrier height, and account for most of the bad devices that do not contain micropipes. Micropipes in these wafers are also frequently found to be of Type II, which do not run parallel to the c axis.« less

Correlation Between Morphological Defects, Electron Beam Induced Current Imaging, and the Electrical Properties of 4H-SiC Schottky Diodes

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

Wang,Y.; Ali, G.; Mikhov, M.

2005-01-01

Defects in SiC degrade the electrical properties and yield of devices made from this material. This article examines morphological defects in 4H-SiC and defects visible in electron beam-induced current (EBIC) images and their effects on the electrical characteristics of Schottky diodes. Optical Nomarski microscopy and atomic force microscopy were used to observe the morphological defects, which are classified into 26 types based on appearance alone. Forward and reverse current-voltage characteristics were used to extract barrier heights, ideality factors, and breakdown voltages. Barrier heights decrease about linearly with increasing ideality factor, which is explained by discrete patches of low barrier heightmore » within the main contact. Barrier height, ideality, and breakdown voltage all degrade with increasing device diameter, suggesting that discrete defects are responsible. Electroluminescence was observed under reverse bias from microplasmas associated with defects containing micropipes. EBIC measurements reveal several types of features corresponding to recombination centers. The density of dark spots observed by EBIC correlates strongly with ideality factor and barrier height. Most morphological defects do not affect the reverse characteristics when no micropipes are present, but lower the barrier height and worsen the ideality factor. However, certain multiple-tailed defects, irregularly shaped defects and triangular defects with 3C inclusions substantially degrade both breakdown voltage and barrier height, and account for most of the bad devices that do not contain micropipes. Micropipes in these wafers are also frequently found to be of Type II, which do not run parallel to the c axis.« less

Extended Generation Profile - E.B.I.C. Model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guermazi, S.; Toureille, A.; Grill, C.; El Jani, B.; Lakhoua, N.

1996-04-01

We have developed a model for the calculation of the induced current due to an electron beam with an extended profile. As well as the number of absorbed and diffuse electrons as a function of the depth, the generation profile takes into account the lateral diffusion and the effect of defects, dislocations and recombination surfaces. The expression from the Electron Beam Induced Current (EBIC) is obtained by solving the continuity equation in permanent regime by the Green function method. In the case of a Schottky diode Au/InP, obtained by ionic scattering followed by a quick thermal treatment, the induced current profile is compared to the theoretical profiles whose analytical expressions are given by Van Roosbroeck and Bresse. The experimental current profile, measured by S.E.M provided us with the calculation of the diffusion length of the minority carriers, L_n=1 μm. The theoretical curve obtained from the proposed model is in good agreement with the experimental one for a surface recombination velocity of 104 cm s^{-1}. Our results are found to be consistent with those obtained by other experimental techniques on the same samples. Nous avons développé un modèle de calcul du courant induit par un faisceau d'électrons avec un profil de génération élargi. Le profil de génération tient compte, en plus du nombre d'électrons absorbés et du nombre d'électrons diffusés en fonction de la profondeur, de la diffusion latérale (en prenant en considération la diffusion angulaire), de l'effet des défauts, des dislocations et de la recombinaison à la surface. L'expression analytique du courant induit E.B.I.C est déterminée par résolution de l'équation de continuité en régime permanent par la méthode des fonctions de Green. Le profil de courant induit obtenu dans le cas d'une diode Schottky Au/InP dopé p et fabriqué par implantation suivit d'un recuit, est comparé au profil de courant théorique dont l'expression analytique est explicité par Van Roosbroeck et Bresse. Le profil de courant expérimental, mesuré par un microscope électronique à balayage, nous a permis de calculer la longueur de diffusion des porteurs minoritaires L_n=1 μm. La courbe théorique, tracée à partir du modèle proposé, est en bon accord avec la courbe expérimental pour une vitesse de recombinaison à la surface de 104 cm s^{-1}. Ces résultats sont conformes avec ceux obtenus par d'autres techniques expérimentales sur les mêmes échantillons.

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

Li, Chen; Paudel, Naba R.; Yan, Yanfa

Atom probe tomography (APT) data acquired from a CAMECA LEAP 4000 XHR for the CdS/CdTe interface for a non-CdCl 2 treated CdTe solar cell as well as the mass spectrum of an APT data set including a GB in a CdCl 2-treated CdTe solar cell are presented. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) data showing the evolution of sample preparation for APT and scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) electron beam induced current (EBIC) are also presented. As a result, these data show mass spectrometry peak decomposition of Cu and Te within an APT dataset, the CdS/CdTe interface of an untreated CdTe solarmore » cell, preparation of APT needles from the CdS/CdTe interface in superstrate grown CdTe solar cells, and the preparation of a cross-sectional STEM EBIC sample.« less

APT mass spectrometry and SEM data for CdTe solar cells

DOE PAGES

Li, Chen; Paudel, Naba R.; Yan, Yanfa; ...

2016-03-16

Atom probe tomography (APT) data acquired from a CAMECA LEAP 4000 XHR for the CdS/CdTe interface for a non-CdCl 2 treated CdTe solar cell as well as the mass spectrum of an APT data set including a GB in a CdCl 2-treated CdTe solar cell are presented. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) data showing the evolution of sample preparation for APT and scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) electron beam induced current (EBIC) are also presented. As a result, these data show mass spectrometry peak decomposition of Cu and Te within an APT dataset, the CdS/CdTe interface of an untreated CdTe solarmore » cell, preparation of APT needles from the CdS/CdTe interface in superstrate grown CdTe solar cells, and the preparation of a cross-sectional STEM EBIC sample.« less

Proton irradiation effects on minority carrier diffusion length and defect introduction in homoepitaxial and heteroepitaxial n-GaN

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Collins, K. C.; Armstrong, A. M.; Allerman, A. A.; Vizkelethy, G.; Van Deusen, S. B.; Léonard, F.; Talin, A. A.

2017-12-01

Inherent advantages of wide bandgap materials make GaN-based devices attractive for power electronics and applications in radiation environments. Recent advances in the availability of wafer-scale, bulk GaN substrates have enabled the production of high quality, low defect density GaN devices, but fundamental studies of carrier transport and radiation hardness in such devices are lacking. Here, we report measurements of the hole diffusion length in low threading dislocation density (TDD), homoepitaxial n-GaN, and high TDD heteroepitaxial n-GaN Schottky diodes before and after irradiation with 2.5 MeV protons at fluences of 4-6 × 1013 protons/cm2. We also characterize the specimens before and after irradiation using electron beam-induced-current (EBIC) imaging, cathodoluminescence, deep level optical spectroscopy (DLOS), steady-state photocapacitance, and lighted capacitance-voltage (LCV) techniques. We observe a substantial reduction in the hole diffusion length following irradiation (50%-55%) and the introduction of electrically active defects which could be attributed to gallium vacancies and associated complexes (VGa-related), carbon impurities (C-related), and gallium interstitials (Gai). EBIC imaging suggests long-range migration and clustering of radiation-induced point defects over distances of ˜500 nm, which suggests mobile Gai. Following irradiation, DLOS and LCV reveal the introduction of a prominent optical energy level at 1.9 eV below the conduction band edge, consistent with the introduction of Gai.

Root causes investigation of catastrophic optical bulk damage in high-power InGaAs-AlGaAs strained QW lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sin, Yongkun; Lingley, Zachary; Ayvazian, Talin; Brodie, Miles; Ives, Neil

2018-02-01

High-power single-mode (SM) and multi-mode (MM) InGaAs-AlGaAs strained quantum well (QW) lasers are critical components for both terrestrial and space satellite communications systems. Since these lasers predominantly fail by catastrophic and sudden degradation due to COD, it is especially crucial for space satellite applications to investigate reliability, failure modes, and degradation mechanisms of these lasers. Our group reported a new failure mode in MM and SM InGaAs-AlGaAs strained QW lasers in 2009 and 2016, respectively. Our group also reported in 2017 that bulk failure due to catastrophic optical bulk damage (COBD) is the dominant failure mode of both SM and MM lasers that were subject to long-term life-tests. For the present study, we report root causes investigation of COBD by performing long-term lifetests followed by failure mode analysis (FMA) using various micro-analytical techniques including electron beam induced current (EBIC), time-resolved electroluminescence (EL), focused ion beam (FIB), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and deep level transient spectroscopy (DLTS). Our life-tests with accumulated test hours of over 25,000 hours for SM lasers and over 35,000 hours for MM lasers generated a number of COBD failures with various failure times. EBIC techniques were employed to study dark line defects (DLDs) generated in SM COBD failures stressed under different test conditions. FIB and high-resolution TEM were employed to prepare cross sectional and plan view TEM specimens to study DLD areas (dislocations) in post-aged SM lasers. Time-resolved EL techniques were employed to study initiation and progressions of dark spots and dark lines in real time as MM lasers were aged. Lastly, to investigate precursor signatures of failure and degradation mechanisms responsible for COBD in both SM and MM lasers, we employed DLTS techniques to study a role that electron traps (non-radiative recombination centers) play in degradation of these lasers. Our in-depth root causes investigation results are reported.

Diffusion length of non-equilibrium minority charge carriers in β-Ga2O3 measured by electron beam induced current

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yakimov, E. B.; Polyakov, A. Y.; Smirnov, N. B.; Shchemerov, I. V.; Yang, Jiancheng; Ren, F.; Yang, Gwangseok; Kim, Jihyun; Pearton, S. J.

2018-05-01

The spatial distribution of electron-hole pair generation in β-Ga2O3 as a function of scanning electron microscope (SEM) beam energy has been calculated by a Monte Carlo method. This spatial distribution is then used to obtain the diffusion length of charge carriers in high-quality epitaxial Ga2O3 films from the dependence of the electron beam induced current (EBIC) collection efficiency on the accelerating voltage of a SEM. The experimental results show, contrary to earlier theory, that holes are mobile in β-Ga2O3 and to a large extent determine the diffusion length of charge carriers. Diffusion lengths in the range 350-400 nm are determined for the as-grown Ga2O3, while processes like exposing the samples to proton irradiation essentially halve this value, showing the role of point defects in controlling minority carrier transport. The pitfalls related to using other popular EBIC-based methods assuming a point-like excitation function are demonstrated. Since the point defect type and the concentration in currently available Ga2O3 are dependent on the growth method and the doping concentration, accurate methods of diffusion length determination are critical to obtain quantitative comparisons of material quality.

Imaging the Impact of Proton Irradiation on Edge Terminations in Vertical GaN pin Diodes

DOE PAGES

Collins, Kimberlee C.; King, Michael P.; Dickerson, Jeramy R.; ...

2017-05-29

Devices based on GaN have shown great promise for high power electronics, including their potential use as radiation tolerant components. An important step to realizing high power diodes is the design and implementation of an edge termination to mitigate field crowding, which can lead to premature breakdown. However, little is known about the effects of radiation on edge termination functionality. We experimentally examine the effects of proton irradiation on multiple field ring edge terminations in high power vertical GaN pin diodes using in operando imaging with electron beam induced current (EBIC). We find that exposure to proton irradiation influences fieldmore » spreading in the edge termination as well as carrier transport near the anode. By using depth-dependent EBIC measurements of hole diffusion length in homoepitaxial n-GaN we demonstrate that the carrier transport effect is due to a reduction in hole diffusion length following proton irradiation.« less

Imaging the Impact of Proton Irradiation on Edge Terminations in Vertical GaN pin Diodes

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

Collins, Kimberlee C.; King, Michael P.; Dickerson, Jeramy R.

Devices based on GaN have shown great promise for high power electronics, including their potential use as radiation tolerant components. An important step to realizing high power diodes is the design and implementation of an edge termination to mitigate field crowding, which can lead to premature breakdown. However, little is known about the effects of radiation on edge termination functionality. We experimentally examine the effects of proton irradiation on multiple field ring edge terminations in high power vertical GaN pin diodes using in operando imaging with electron beam induced current (EBIC). We find that exposure to proton irradiation influences fieldmore » spreading in the edge termination as well as carrier transport near the anode. By using depth-dependent EBIC measurements of hole diffusion length in homoepitaxial n-GaN we demonstrate that the carrier transport effect is due to a reduction in hole diffusion length following proton irradiation.« less

Proton irradiation effects on minority carrier diffusion length and defect introduction in homoepitaxial and heteroepitaxial n-GaN [Proton irradiation effects on minority carrier diffusion length and defect introduction in homoepitaxial n-GaN

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

Collins, K. C.; Armstrong, Andrew M.; Allerman, Andrew A.

Here, inherent advantages of wide bandgap materials make GaN-based devices attractive for power electronics and applications in radiation environments. Recent advances in the availability of wafer-scale, bulk GaN substrates have enabled the production of high quality, low defect density GaN devices, but fundamental studies of carrier transport and radiation hardness in such devices are lacking. Here, we report measurements of the hole diffusion length in low threading dislocation density (TDD), homoepitaxial n-GaN, and high TDD heteroepitaxial n-GaN Schottky diodes before and after irradiation with 2.5 MeV protons at fluences of 4–6 × 10 13 protons/cm 2. We also characterize themore » specimens before and after irradiation using electron beam-induced-current (EBIC) imaging, cathodoluminescence, deep level optical spectroscopy (DLOS), steady-state photocapacitance, and lighted capacitance-voltage (LCV) techniques. We observe a substantial reduction in the hole diffusion length following irradiation (50%–55%) and the introduction of electrically active defects which could be attributed to gallium vacancies and associated complexes (V Ga-related), carbon impurities (C-related), and gallium interstitials (Ga i). EBIC imaging suggests long-range migration and clustering of radiation-induced point defects over distances of ~500 nm, which suggests mobile Ga i. Following irradiation, DLOS and LCV reveal the introduction of a prominent optical energy level at 1.9 eV below the conduction band edge, consistent with the introduction of Ga i.« less

Proton irradiation effects on minority carrier diffusion length and defect introduction in homoepitaxial and heteroepitaxial n-GaN [Proton irradiation effects on minority carrier diffusion length and defect introduction in homoepitaxial n-GaN

DOE PAGES

Collins, K. C.; Armstrong, Andrew M.; Allerman, Andrew A.; ...

2017-12-21

Here, inherent advantages of wide bandgap materials make GaN-based devices attractive for power electronics and applications in radiation environments. Recent advances in the availability of wafer-scale, bulk GaN substrates have enabled the production of high quality, low defect density GaN devices, but fundamental studies of carrier transport and radiation hardness in such devices are lacking. Here, we report measurements of the hole diffusion length in low threading dislocation density (TDD), homoepitaxial n-GaN, and high TDD heteroepitaxial n-GaN Schottky diodes before and after irradiation with 2.5 MeV protons at fluences of 4–6 × 10 13 protons/cm 2. We also characterize themore » specimens before and after irradiation using electron beam-induced-current (EBIC) imaging, cathodoluminescence, deep level optical spectroscopy (DLOS), steady-state photocapacitance, and lighted capacitance-voltage (LCV) techniques. We observe a substantial reduction in the hole diffusion length following irradiation (50%–55%) and the introduction of electrically active defects which could be attributed to gallium vacancies and associated complexes (V Ga-related), carbon impurities (C-related), and gallium interstitials (Ga i). EBIC imaging suggests long-range migration and clustering of radiation-induced point defects over distances of ~500 nm, which suggests mobile Ga i. Following irradiation, DLOS and LCV reveal the introduction of a prominent optical energy level at 1.9 eV below the conduction band edge, consistent with the introduction of Ga i.« less

Recombination properties of dislocations in GaN

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yakimov, Eugene B.; Polyakov, Alexander Y.; Lee, In-Hwan; Pearton, Stephen J.

2018-04-01

The recombination activity of threading dislocations in n-GaN with different dislocation densities and different doping levels was studied using electron beam induced current (EBIC). The recombination velocity on a dislocation, also known as the dislocation recombination strength, was calculated. The results suggest that dislocations in n-GaN giving contrast in EBIC are charged and surrounded by a space charge region, as evidenced by the observed dependence of dislocation recombination strength on dopant concentration. For moderate (below ˜108 cm-2) dislocation densities, these defects do not primarily determine the average diffusion length of nonequilibrium charge carriers, although locally, dislocations are efficient recombination sites. In general, it is observed that the effect of the growth method [standard metalorganic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD), epitaxial lateral overgrowth versions of MOCVD, and hydride vapor phase epitaxy] on the recombination activity of dislocations is not very pronounced, although the average diffusion lengths can widely differ for various samples. The glide of basal plane dislocations at room temperature promoted by low energy electron irradiation does not significantly change the recombination properties of dislocations.

Dislocation gliding and cross-hatch morphology formation in AIII-BV epitaxial heterostructures

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

Kovalskiy, V. A., E-mail: kovalva@iptm.ru; Vergeles, P. S.; Eremenko, V. G.

2014-12-08

An approach for understanding the origin of cross-hatch pattern (CHP) on the surface of lattice mismatched GaMnAs/InGaAs samples grown on GaAs (001) substrates is developed. It is argued that the motion of threading dislocations in the (111) slip planes during the relaxation of InGaAs buffer layer is more complicated process and its features are similar to the ones of dislocation half-loops gliding in plastically deformed crystals. The heterostructures were characterized by atomic force microscopy and electron beam induced current (EBIC). Detailed EBIC experiments revealed contrast features, which cannot be accounted for by the electrical activity of misfit dislocations at themore » buffer/substrate interface. We attribute these features to specific extended defects (EDs) generated by moving threading dislocations in the partially relaxed InGaAs layers. We believe that the core topology, surface reconstruction, and elastic strains from these EDs accommodated in slip planes play an important role in the CHP formation. The study of such electrically active EDs will allow further understanding of degradation and changes in characteristics of quantum devices based on strained heterostructures.« less

Nondestructive determination of the depth of planar p-n junctions by scanning electron microscopy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chi, J.-Y.; Gatos, H. C.

1977-01-01

A method was developed for measuring nondestructively the depth of planar p-n junctions in simple devices as well as in integrated-circuit structures with the electron-beam induced current (EBIC) by scanning parallel to the junction in a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The results were found to be in good agreement with those obtained by the commonly used destructive method of lapping at an angle to the junction and staining to reveal the junction.

Stress and efficiency studies in EFG

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1986-01-01

The goals of this program were: (1) to define minimum stress configurations for silicon sheet growth at high speeds; (2) to quantify dislocation electrical activity and their limits on minority carrier diffusion length in deformed silicon; and (3) to study reasons for degradation of lifetime with increases in doping level in edge-defined film-fed growth (EFG) materials. A finite element model was developed for calculating residual stress with plastic deformation. A finite element model was verified for EFG control variable relationships to temperature field of the sheet to permit prediction of profiles and stresses encountered in EFG systems. A residual stress measurement technique was developed for finite size EFG material blanks using shadow Moire interferometry. Transient creep response of silicon was investigated in the temperature range between 800 and 1400 C in strain and strain regimes of interest in stress analysis of sheet growth. Quantitative relationships were established between minority carrier diffusion length and dislocation densities using Electron Beam Induced Current (EBIC) measurement in FZ silicon deformed in four point bending tests.

Variable screening via quantile partial correlation

PubMed Central

Ma, Shujie; Tsai, Chih-Ling

2016-01-01

In quantile linear regression with ultra-high dimensional data, we propose an algorithm for screening all candidate variables and subsequently selecting relevant predictors. Specifically, we first employ quantile partial correlation for screening, and then we apply the extended Bayesian information criterion (EBIC) for best subset selection. Our proposed method can successfully select predictors when the variables are highly correlated, and it can also identify variables that make a contribution to the conditional quantiles but are marginally uncorrelated or weakly correlated with the response. Theoretical results show that the proposed algorithm can yield the sure screening set. By controlling the false selection rate, model selection consistency can be achieved theoretically. In practice, we proposed using EBIC for best subset selection so that the resulting model is screening consistent. Simulation studies demonstrate that the proposed algorithm performs well, and an empirical example is presented. PMID:28943683

SEM Analysis Techniques for LSI Microcircuits. Volume 1

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-08-01

CHIP, EBIC 70 1-40 COLUMN DECODE FAILURE, VOLTAGE CONTRAST 71 1-41 COLUMN DECODE FAILURE, VOLTAGE CONTRAST 72 1-42 OUTPUT FAILURE, VOLTAGE CONTRAST 73...317 5-22 DATA OUTPUT BUFFER, LIGHT PHOTO 318 5-23 DATA OUTPUT BUFFER, VOLTAGE CONTRAST 319 5-24 OVERALL CHIP FUNCTION, LIGHT PHOTO 320 5-25 ROW...34.. 91 75 87 80 99 93’ 76 71 0.4mA 1 IFA "0" 85 76 88 80 99 94 76 72 0.4mA 15 ’FA Ŕ" 58 42 60 58 64 66 52 48 0.4mA 13 IFE (A) 1101" 54 51 56 60 65 58 47

Stress studies in EFG

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1984-01-01

Electrical characterization of defects induced in FZ and CZ silicon stress in four-point bending above 1200 C was started. Techniques to study electrical activity that will permit correlation of defect activity with diffusion length and with room and low temperature EBIC are being developed. Preliminary characterization of defects in ribbon grown at very low speeds of less than 1 cm/min shows that the dislocation density is very low over significant regions of cross section, while regions of high dislocation density (approx. 5 x 10(6)/cm(2)) occur in bands in a number of places. Addition measurements of stress distributions in EFG material were obtained at the University of Illinois using shadow-Moire interferometry.

Full 3D opto-electronic simulation tool for nanotextured solar cells (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Michallon, Jérôme; Collin, Stéphane

2017-04-01

Increasing efforts on the photovoltaics research have recently been devoted to material savings, leading to the emergence of new designs based on nanotextured and nanowire-based solar cells. The use of small absorber volumes, light-trapping nanostructures and unconventional carrier collection schemes (radial nanowire junctions, point contacts in planar structures,…) increases the impact of surfaces recombination and induces homogeneity in the photogenerated carrier concentrations. The investigation of their impacts on the device performances need to be addressed using full 3D coupled opto-electrical modeling. In this context, we have developed a new tool for full 3D opto-electrical simulation using the most advanced optical and electrical simulation techniques. We will present an overview of its simulation capabilities and the key issues that have been solved to make it fully operational and reliable. We will provide various examples of opto-electronic simulation of (i) nanostructured solar cells with localized contacts and (ii) nanowire solar cells. We will also show how opto-electronic simulation can be used to simulate light- and electron-beam induced current (LBIC/EBIC) experiments, targeting quantitative analysis of the passivation properties of surfaces.

Catastrophic optical bulk degradation (COBD) in high-power single- and multi-mode InGaAs-AlGaAs strained quantum well lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sin, Yongkun; Lingley, Zachary; Brodie, Miles; Presser, Nathan; Moss, Steven C.

2017-02-01

High-power single-mode (SM) and multi-mode (MM) InGaAs-AlGaAs strained quantum well (QW) lasers are critical components for both telecommunications and space satellite communications systems. However, little has been reported on failure modes and degradation mechanisms of high-power SM and MM InGaAs-AlGaAs strained QW lasers although it is crucial to understand failure modes and underlying degradation mechanisms in developing these lasers that meet lifetime requirements for space satellite systems, where extremely high reliability of these lasers is required. Our present study addresses the aforementioned issues by performing long-term life-tests followed by failure mode analysis (FMA) and physics of failure investigation. We performed long-term accelerated life-tests on state-of-the-art SM and MM InGaAs-AlGaAs strained QW lasers under ACC (automatic current control) mode. Our life-tests have accumulated over 25,000 test hours for SM lasers and over 35,000 test hours for MM lasers. FMA was performed on failed SM lasers using electron beam induced current (EBIC). This technique allowed us to identify failure types by observing dark line defects. All the SM failures we studied showed catastrophic and sudden degradation and all of these failures were bulk failures. Our group previously reported that bulk failure or COBD (catastrophic optical bulk damage) is the dominant failure mode of MM InGaAs-AlGaAs strained QW lasers. Since degradation mechanisms responsible for COBD are still not well understood, we also employed other techniques including focused ion beam (FIB) processing and high-resolution TEM to further study dark line defects and dislocations in post-aged lasers. Our long-term life-test results and FMA results are reported.

Effects of Iron Contamination and Hydrogen Passivation on the Electrical Properties of Oxygen Precipitates in CZ-Si

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Jiyang; Song, Lihui; Yu, Xuegong; Yang, Deren

2018-04-01

Oxygen precipitates (OPs) are unavoidably formed in Czochralski silicon (CZ-Si) containing relatively high concentrations of oxygen. The recombination behavior of such defects is also vital for bulk devices like solar cells as they can reduce the minority carrier lifetime and degrade the cell performance. In our experiments, the characteristics of oxygen precipitation in n-type CZ-Si are systematically investigated by means of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), deep level transient spectroscopy (DLTS) and electron beam induced current (EBIC). It is found that the iron contamination in n-type CZ-Si can strongly influence the OPs generation and their electrical properties, whereas the hydrogen passivation can effectively reduce the recombination activity of OPs.

Catastrophic optical bulk degradation in high-power single- and multi-mode InGaAs-AlGaAs strained QW lasers: part II

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sin, Yongkun; Ayvazian, Talin; Brodie, Miles; Lingley, Zachary

2018-03-01

High-power single-mode (SM) and multi-mode (MM) InGaAs-AlGaAs strained quantum well (QW) lasers are critical components for both terrestrial and space satellite communications systems. Since these lasers predominantly fail by catastrophic and sudden degradation due to catastrophic optical damage (COD), it is especially crucial for space satellite applications to investigate reliability, failure modes, precursor signatures of failure, and degradation mechanisms of these lasers. Our group reported a new failure mode in MM and SM InGaAs-AlGaAs strained QW lasers in 2009 and 2016, respectively. Our group also reported in 2017 that bulk failure due to catastrophic optical bulk damage (COBD) is the dominant failure mode of both SM and MM lasers that were subject to long-term life-tests. For the present study, we continued our physics of failure investigation by performing long-term life-tests followed by failure mode analysis (FMA) using nondestructive and destructive micro-analytical techniques. We performed long-term accelerated life-tests on state-of-the-art SM and MM InGaAs- AlGaAs strained QW lasers under ACC mode. Our life-tests have accumulated over 25,000 test hours for SM lasers and over 35,000 test hours for MM lasers. We first employed electron beam induced current (EBIC) technique to identify failure modes of degraded SM lasers by observing dark line defects. All the SM failures that we studied showed catastrophic and sudden degradation and all of these failures were bulk failures. Since degradation mechanisms responsible for COBD are still not well understood, we also employed other techniques including focused ion beam (FIB) and high-resolution TEM to further study dark line defects and dislocations in post-aged lasers. Keywor

Current-voltage characteristics of manganite-titanite perovskite junctions.

PubMed

Ifland, Benedikt; Peretzki, Patrick; Kressdorf, Birte; Saring, Philipp; Kelling, Andreas; Seibt, Michael; Jooss, Christian

2015-01-01

After a general introduction into the Shockley theory of current voltage (J-V) characteristics of inorganic and organic semiconductor junctions of different bandwidth, we apply the Shockley theory-based, one diode model to a new type of perovskite junctions with polaronic charge carriers. In particular, we studied manganite-titanate p-n heterojunctions made of n-doped SrTi1- y Nb y O3, y = 0.002 and p-doped Pr1- x Ca x MnO3, x = 0.34 having a strongly correlated electron system. The diffusion length of the polaron carriers was analyzed by electron beam-induced current (EBIC) in a thin cross plane lamella of the junction. In the J-V characteristics, the polaronic nature of the charge carriers is exhibited mainly by the temperature dependence of the microscopic parameters, such as the hopping mobility of the series resistance and a colossal electro-resistance (CER) effect in the parallel resistance. We conclude that a modification of the Shockley equation incorporating voltage-dependent microscopic polaron parameters is required. Specifically, the voltage dependence of the reverse saturation current density is analyzed and interpreted as a voltage-dependent electron-polaron hole-polaron pair generation and separation at the interface.

Large-area silicon sheet task

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Morrison, A. D.

1982-01-01

A set of computer models was used to define a growth system configuration that was then built and used to grow web with lower thermally generated stress. Aspects of research in the edge-defined film-fed growth (EFG) method of making Si ribbon are reported. A technique was developed to determine base resistivity and carrier lifetime in semicrystalline wafers. Automated growth of 150 kg of 15 cm-dia ingot material per crucible is reviewed. Scanning transmisson electron microscopy (STEM) and microprobe investigations of processed EFG ribbon are reported. The chemical composition of the large precipitates was studied. The structural arrangement and the electrical activity of distentions or close to the central twin plane in processed material were studied. The electrical and structural properties of grain boundaries in silicon are discussed. Temperature-dependence measurements of zero-bias conductance, a photoconductivity technique, and deep-level transient spectroscopy (DLTS) were developed. A grooving and staining technique, secondary ion mass spectroscopy, and EBIC measurements in scanning electron microscopy were used to study enhanced diffusion of phosphorus at grain boundaries in polycrystaline silicon. The fundamental mechanisms of abrasion and wear and the deformation of Si by a diamond in various fluid environments are described. The efficiency of solar cells made from EFG ribbon and Semix Inc. material is reported.

The cross-validated AUC for MCP-logistic regression with high-dimensional data.

PubMed

Jiang, Dingfeng; Huang, Jian; Zhang, Ying

2013-10-01

We propose a cross-validated area under the receiving operator characteristic (ROC) curve (CV-AUC) criterion for tuning parameter selection for penalized methods in sparse, high-dimensional logistic regression models. We use this criterion in combination with the minimax concave penalty (MCP) method for variable selection. The CV-AUC criterion is specifically designed for optimizing the classification performance for binary outcome data. To implement the proposed approach, we derive an efficient coordinate descent algorithm to compute the MCP-logistic regression solution surface. Simulation studies are conducted to evaluate the finite sample performance of the proposed method and its comparison with the existing methods including the Akaike information criterion (AIC), Bayesian information criterion (BIC) or Extended BIC (EBIC). The model selected based on the CV-AUC criterion tends to have a larger predictive AUC and smaller classification error than those with tuning parameters selected using the AIC, BIC or EBIC. We illustrate the application of the MCP-logistic regression with the CV-AUC criterion on three microarray datasets from the studies that attempt to identify genes related to cancers. Our simulation studies and data examples demonstrate that the CV-AUC is an attractive method for tuning parameter selection for penalized methods in high-dimensional logistic regression models.

Current–voltage characteristics of manganite–titanite perovskite junctions

PubMed Central

Ifland, Benedikt; Peretzki, Patrick; Kressdorf, Birte; Saring, Philipp; Kelling, Andreas; Seibt, Michael

2015-01-01

Summary After a general introduction into the Shockley theory of current voltage (J–V) characteristics of inorganic and organic semiconductor junctions of different bandwidth, we apply the Shockley theory-based, one diode model to a new type of perovskite junctions with polaronic charge carriers. In particular, we studied manganite–titanate p–n heterojunctions made of n-doped SrTi1− yNbyO3, y = 0.002 and p-doped Pr1− xCaxMnO3, x = 0.34 having a strongly correlated electron system. The diffusion length of the polaron carriers was analyzed by electron beam-induced current (EBIC) in a thin cross plane lamella of the junction. In the J–V characteristics, the polaronic nature of the charge carriers is exhibited mainly by the temperature dependence of the microscopic parameters, such as the hopping mobility of the series resistance and a colossal electro-resistance (CER) effect in the parallel resistance. We conclude that a modification of the Shockley equation incorporating voltage-dependent microscopic polaron parameters is required. Specifically, the voltage dependence of the reverse saturation current density is analyzed and interpreted as a voltage-dependent electron–polaron hole–polaron pair generation and separation at the interface. PMID:26199851

Probing photo-carrier collection efficiencies of individual silicon nanowire diodes on a wafer substrate.

PubMed

Schmitt, S W; Brönstrup, G; Shalev, G; Srivastava, S K; Bashouti, M Y; Döhler, G H; Christiansen, S H

2014-07-21

Vertically aligned silicon nanowire (SiNW) diodes are promising candidates for the integration into various opto-electronic device concepts for e.g. sensing or solar energy conversion. Individual SiNW p-n diodes have intensively been studied, but to date an assessment of their device performance once integrated on a silicon substrate has not been made. We show that using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with a nano-manipulator and an optical fiber feed-through for tunable (wavelength, power using a tunable laser source) sample illumination, the dark and illuminated current-voltage (I-V) curve of individual SiNW diodes on the substrate wafer can be measured. Surprisingly, the I-V-curve of the serially coupled system composed of SiNW/wafers is accurately described by an equivalent circuit model of a single diode and diode parameters like series and shunting resistivity, diode ideality factor and photocurrent can be retrieved from a fit. We show that the photo-carrier collection efficiency (PCE) of the integrated diode illuminated with variable wavelength and intensity light directly gives insight into the quality of the device design at the nanoscale. We find that the PCE decreases for high light intensities and photocurrent densities, due to the fact that considerable amounts of photo-excited carriers generated within the substrate lead to a decrease in shunting resistivity of the SiNW diode and deteriorate its rectification. The PCE decreases systematically for smaller wavelengths of visible light, showing the possibility of monitoring the effectiveness of the SiNW device surface passivation using the shown measurement technique. The integrated device was pre-characterized using secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS), TCAD simulations and electron beam induced current (EBIC) measurements to validate the properties of the characterized material at the single SiNW diode level.

S–Te Interdiffusion within Grains and Grain Boundaries in CdTe Solar Cells

DOE PAGES

Li, C.; Poplawsky, J.; Paudel, N.; ...

2014-09-19

At the CdTe/CdS interface, a significant Te-S interdiffusion has been found a few nanometers into the grain interiors with scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS). S substitution at Te sites has been directly resolved in CdTe with STEM Z-contrast images. Moreover, when enough S substitutes for Te, a structural transformation from zinc-blende to wurtzite has been observed. Cl segregation has also been found at the interface. STEM electron-beam-induced current (EBIC) shows that the p-n junction occurs a few nm into the CdTe grains, which is consistent with the S diffusion range we observe. The shiftmore » of the p-n junction suggests a buried homo-junction which would help reduce non-radiative recombination at the junction. Meanwhile, long-range S diffusion in CdTe grain boundaries (GBs) has been detected, as well as Te and Cl diffusion in CdS GBs.« less

Degradation mechanisms in high-power multi-mode InGaAs-AlGaAs strained quantum well lasers for high-reliability applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sin, Yongkun; Presser, Nathan; Brodie, Miles; Lingley, Zachary; Foran, Brendan; Moss, Steven C.

2015-03-01

Laser diode manufacturers perform accelerated multi-cell lifetests to estimate lifetimes of lasers using an empirical model. Since state-of-the-art laser diodes typically require a long period of latency before they degrade, significant amount of stress is applied to the lasers to generate failures in relatively short test durations. A drawback of this approach is the lack of mean-time-to-failure data under intermediate and low stress conditions, leading to uncertainty in model parameters (especially optical power and current exponent) and potential overestimation of lifetimes at usage conditions. This approach is a concern especially for satellite communication systems where high reliability is required of lasers for long-term duration in the space environment. A number of groups have studied reliability and degradation processes in GaAs-based lasers, but none of these studies have yielded a reliability model based on the physics of failure. The lack of such a model is also a concern for space applications where complete understanding of degradation mechanisms is necessary. Our present study addresses the aforementioned issues by performing long-term lifetests under low stress conditions followed by failure mode analysis (FMA) and physics of failure investigation. We performed low-stress lifetests on both MBE- and MOCVD-grown broad-area InGaAs- AlGaAs strained QW lasers under ACC (automatic current control) mode to study low-stress degradation mechanisms. Our lifetests have accumulated over 36,000 test hours and FMA is performed on failures using our angle polishing technique followed by EL. This technique allows us to identify failure types by observing dark line defects through a window introduced in backside metal contacts. We also investigated degradation mechanisms in MOCVD-grown broad-area InGaAs-AlGaAs strained QW lasers using various FMA techniques. Since it is a challenge to control defect densities during the growth of laser structures, we chose to control defect densities by introducing extrinsic point defects to the laser via proton irradiation with different energies and fluences. These lasers were subsequently lifetested to study degradation processes in the lasers with different defect densities and also to study precursor signatures of failures - traps and non-radiative recombination centers (NRCs) in pre- and post-stressed lasers. Lastly, we employed focused ion beam (FIB), electron beam induced current (EBIC), and highresolution TEM (HR-TEM) techniques to further study dark line defects and dislocations in both post-aged and postproton irradiated lasers. We report on our long-term low-stress lifetest results and physics of failure investigation results.

Electrical and optical characterization of surface passivation in GaAs nanowires.

PubMed

Chang, Chia-Chi; Chi, Chun-Yung; Yao, Maoqing; Huang, Ningfeng; Chen, Chun-Chung; Theiss, Jesse; Bushmaker, Adam W; Lalumondiere, Stephen; Yeh, Ting-Wei; Povinelli, Michelle L; Zhou, Chongwu; Dapkus, P Daniel; Cronin, Stephen B

2012-09-12

We report a systematic study of carrier dynamics in Al(x)Ga(1-x)As-passivated GaAs nanowires. With passivation, the minority carrier diffusion length (L(diff)) increases from 30 to 180 nm, as measured by electron beam induced current (EBIC) mapping, and the photoluminescence (PL) lifetime increases from sub-60 ps to 1.3 ns. A 48-fold enhancement in the continuous-wave PL intensity is observed on the same individual nanowire with and without the Al(x)Ga(1-x)As passivation layer, indicating a significant reduction in surface recombination. These results indicate that, in passivated nanowires, the minority carrier lifetime is not limited by twin stacking faults. From the PL lifetime and minority carrier diffusion length, we estimate the surface recombination velocity (SRV) to range from 1.7 × 10(3) to 1.1 × 10(4) cm·s(-1), and the minority carrier mobility μ is estimated to lie in the range from 10.3 to 67.5 cm(2) V(-1) s(-1) for the passivated nanowires.

New designs and characterization techniques for thin-film solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pang, Yutong

This thesis presents a fundamentally new thin-film photovoltaic design and develops several novel characterization techniques that improve the accuracy of thin-film solar cell computational models by improving the accuracy of the input data. We first demonstrate a novel organic photovoltaic (OPV) design, termed a "Slot OPV", in which the active layer is less than 50 nm; We apply the principles of slot waveguides to confine light within the active layer. According to our calculation, the guided-mode absorption for a 10nm thick active layer equal to the absorption of normal incidence on an OPV with a 100nm thick active layer. These results, together with the expected improvement in charge extraction for ultrathin layers, suggest that slot OPVs can be designed with greater power conversion efficiency than today's state-of-art OPV architectures if practical challenges, such as the efficient coupling of light into these modes, can be overcome. The charge collection probability, i.e. the probability that charges generated by absorption of a photon are successfully collected as current, is a critical feature for all kinds of solar cells. While the electron-beam-induced current (EBIC) method has been used in the past to successfully reconstruct the charge collection probability, this approach is destructive and requires time-consuming sample preparation. We demonstrate a new nondestructive optoelectronic method to reconstruct the charge collection probability by analyzing the internal quantum efficiency (IQE) data that are measured on copper indium gallium diselenide (CIGS) thin-film solar cells. We further improve the method with a parameter-independent regularization approach. Then we introduce the Self-Constrained Ill-Posed Inverse Problem (SCIIP) method, which improves the signal-to-noise of the solution by using the regularization method with system constraints and optimization via an evolutionary algorithm. For a thin-film solar cell optical model to be an accurate representation of reality, the measured refractive index profile of the solar cell used as input to the model must also be accurate. We describe a new method for reconstructing the depth-dependent refractive-index profile with high spatial resolution in thin photoactive layers. This novel technique applies to any thin film, including the photoactive layers of a broad range of thin-film photovoltaics. Together, these methods help us improve the measurement accuracy of the depth profile within thin-film photovoltaics for optical and electronic properties such as refractive index and charge collection probability, which is critical to the understanding, modeling, and optimization of these devices.

EBIC/TEM investigations of process-induced defects in EFG silicon ribbon

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cunningham, B.; Ast, D. G.

1981-01-01

Electron bombardment induced conductivity and scanning transmission electron microscopy observations on unprocessed and processed edge-defined film-fed growth ribbon show that the phosphorus diffused junction depth is not uniform, and that a variety of chemical impurities precipitate out during processing. Two kinds of precipitates are found (1) 10 nm or less in size, located at the dislocation nodes in sub-boundary like dislocation arrangements formed during processing and (2) large precipitates, the chemical composition of which has been partially identified. These large precipitates emit dense dislocations tangles into the adjacent crystal volume.

Diffusion length damage coefficient and annealing studies in proton-irradiated InP

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hakimzadeh, Roshanak; Vargas-Aburto, Carlos; Bailey, Sheila G.; Williams, Wendell

1993-01-01

We report on the measurement of the diffusion length damage coefficient (K(sub L)) and the annealing characteristics of the minority carrier diffusion length (L(sub n)) in Czochralski-grown zinc-doped indium phosphide (InP), with a carrier concentration of 1 x 10(exp l8) cm(exp -3). In measuring K(sub L) irradiations were made with 0.5 MeV protons with fluences ranging from 1 x 10(exp 11) to 3 x 10(exp 13) cm(exp -2). Pre- and post-irradiation electron-beam induced current (EBIC) measurements allowed for the extraction of L(sub n) from which K(sub L) was determined. In studying the annealing characteristics of L(sub n) irradiations were made with 2 MeV protons with fluence of 5 x 10(exp 13) cm(exp -2). Post-irradiation studies of L(sub n) with time at room temperature, and with minority carrier photoinjection and forward-bias injection were carried out. The results showed that recovery under Air Mass Zero (AMO) photoinjection was complete. L(sub n) was also found to recover under forward-bias injection, where recovery was found to depend on the value of the injection current. However, no recovery of L(sub n) after proton irradiation was observed with time at room temperature, in contrast to the behavior of 1 MeV electron-irradiated InP solar cells reported previously.

Molecular-beam heteroepitaxial growth and characterization of wide-band-gap semiconductor films and devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Piquette, Eric Charles

The thesis consists of two parts. Part I describes work on the molecular beam epitaxial (MBE) growth of GaN, AlN, and AlxGa 1-xN alloys, as well as efforts in the initial technical development and demonstration of nitride-based high power electronic devices. The major issues pertaining to MBE growth are discussed, including special requirements of the growth system, substrates, film nucleation, n - and p-type doping, and the dependence of film quality on growth parameters. The GaN films were characterized by a variety of methods, including high resolution x-ray diffraction, photoluminescence, and Hall effect measurement. It is found that the film polarity and extended defect density as well as quality of photoluminescence and electrical transport properties depend crucially on how the nitride layer is nucleated on the substrate and how the subsequent film surface morphology evolves, which can be controlled by the growth conditions. A technique is proposed and demonstrated that utilizes the control of morphology evolution to reduce defect density and improve the structural quality of MBE GaN films. In addition to growth, the design and processing of high voltage GaN Schottky diodes is presented, as well as an experimental study of sputter-deposited ohmic and rectifying metal contacts to GaN. Simple models for high power devices, based on materials properties such as minority carrier diffusion length and critical electric breakdown field, are used to estimate the voltage standoff capability, current carrying capacity, and maximum operating frequency of unipolar and bipolar GaN power devices. The materials and transport properties of GaN pertinent to high power device design were measured experimentally. High voltage Schottky rectifiers were fabricated which verify the impressive electric breakdown field of GaN (2--5 MV/cm). Electron beam induced current (EBIC) experiments were also conducted to measure the minority carrier diffusion length for both electrons and holes in GaN. Part II of the thesis describes studies of the MBE growth of ZnS and investigations of ZnS/GaN fight emitting heterojunctions which show promise for application as blue and green light emitters. Zinc sulfide layers doped with Ag and Al were grown by MBE on sapphire, GaAs, and GaN substrates and characterized by x-ray diffraction and photoluminescence. Preliminary current-voltage and electroluminescence results are presented for a processed ZnS:Al,Ag/GaN:Mg prototype blue light emitting device.

InGaAsP/InP laser development for single-mode, high-data-rate communications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ladany, I.; Levin, E. R.; Magee, C. W.; Smith, R. T.

1981-01-01

Materials studies as well as general and specific device development were carried out in the InGaAsP system. A comparison was made of three standard methods of evaluating substrate quality by means of dislocation studies. A cause of reduced yield of good wafers, the pullover of melt from one bin to the next, has been analyzed. Difficulties with reproducible zinc acceptor doping have been traced to segregation of zinc in the In/Zn alloy used for the doping source. Using EBIC measurments, the pn junction was shown to drift in location depending on factors not always under control. An analysis of contact structures by SIMS showed that the depth to which the sintered Au/Zn contact penetrates into the structure is typically 0.13 microns, or well within the cap layer and out of the p-type cladding and thus not deleterious to laser prformance. The problem of single-mode laser development was investigated and it was shown to be related to the growth habit over four different possible substrate configurations. The fabrication of constricted double heterojunctions, mesa stripe buried heterostructures, and buried heterostructures was discussed, and measurements were presented on the device properties of single-mode buried heterostructure lasers. Results include single spectral line emission at 3 mW and a threshold current of 60 mA.

EBIC/TEM investigations of defects in solar silicon ribbon materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ast, D. G.

1981-01-01

Transmission electron microscopy was used to investigate the defect structure of edge defined film growth (EFG) material, web dentritic ribbons (WEB), and ribbon to ribbon recrystallized material (RTR). The most common defects in all these materials are coherent first order twin boundaries. These coherent twins can be very thin, a few atomic layers. Bundles of the twins which contain odd numbers of twins will in optical images appear as a seemingly single first twin boundary. First-order coherent twin boundaries are not electrically active, except at locations where they contain intrinsic (grain boundary) dislocations. These dislocations take up small deviations from the ideal twin relation and play the same role in twin boundaries as conventional and play the some role in twin boundaries as conventional edge and screw dislocations in small angle tilt and twist boundaries.

Model improvements to simulate charging in SEM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arat, K. T.; Klimpel, T.; Hagen, C. W.

2018-03-01

Charging of insulators is a complex phenomenon to simulate since the accuracy of the simulations is very sensitive to the interaction of electrons with matter and electric fields. In this study, we report model improvements for a previously developed Monte-Carlo simulator to more accurately simulate samples that charge. The improvements include both modelling of low energy electron scattering and charging of insulators. The new first-principle scattering models provide a more realistic charge distribution cloud in the material, and a better match between non-charging simulations and experimental results. Improvements on charging models mainly focus on redistribution of the charge carriers in the material with an induced conductivity (EBIC) and a breakdown model, leading to a smoother distribution of the charges. Combined with a more accurate tracing of low energy electrons in the electric field, we managed to reproduce the dynamically changing charging contrast due to an induced positive surface potential.

Stress and efficiency studies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1985-01-01

Optical and electrical characterization of defects has been started in EFG ribbon grown in a system that will be used to test the stress model. Temperature and stress field modeling aimed at defining low stress growth configuration is also in progress, and results will be used to guide development of the experimental system. The baseline defect configuration for ribbon grown at speeds of approx. 1 cm/min consists of dislocation densities of the order of 10 to the 5th power to 10 to the 6th power/sq cm, as well as saucer type etch pits and line defects. All these defects are inhomogeneously distributed. EBIC measurements indicate that diffusion lengths are in the range 20 to 60 microns, and significant spatial inhomogeneities occur through the ribbon thickness. Growth speed changes in the range 0.7-1.0 cm/min do not produce significant variations in ribbon defect configurations.

A Two-Step Absorber Deposition Approach To Overcome Shunt Losses in Thin-Film Solar Cells: Using Tin Sulfide as a Proof-of-Concept Material System

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

Steinmann, Vera; Chakraborty, Rupak; Rekemeyer, Paul H.

2016-08-31

As novel absorber materials are developed and screened for their photovoltaic (PV) properties, the challenge remains to reproducibly test promising candidates for high-performing PV devices. Many early-stage devices are prone to device shunting due to pinholes in the absorber layer, producing 'false-negative' results. Here, we demonstrate a device engineering solution toward a robust device architecture, using a two-step absorber deposition approach. We use tin sulfide (SnS) as a test absorber material. The SnS bulk is processed at high temperature (400 degrees C) to stimulate grain growth, followed by a much thinner, low-temperature (200 degrees C) absorber deposition. At a lowermore » process temperature, the thin absorber overlayer contains significantly smaller, densely packed grains, which are likely to provide a continuous coating and fill pinholes in the underlying absorber bulk. We compare this two-step approach to the more standard approach of using a semi-insulating buffer layer directly on top of the annealed absorber bulk, and we demonstrate a more than 3.5x superior shunt resistance Rsh with smaller standard error ..sigma..Rsh. Electron-beam-induced current (EBIC) measurements indicate a lower density of pinholes in the SnS absorber bulk when using the two-step absorber deposition approach. We correlate those findings to improvements in the device performance and device performance reproducibility.« less

Noise distribution and denoising of current density images

PubMed Central

Beheshti, Mohammadali; Foomany, Farbod H.; Magtibay, Karl; Jaffray, David A.; Krishnan, Sridhar; Nanthakumar, Kumaraswamy; Umapathy, Karthikeyan

2015-01-01

Abstract. Current density imaging (CDI) is a magnetic resonance (MR) imaging technique that could be used to study current pathways inside the tissue. The current distribution is measured indirectly as phase changes. The inherent noise in the MR imaging technique degrades the accuracy of phase measurements leading to imprecise current variations. The outcome can be affected significantly, especially at a low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). We have shown the residual noise distribution of the phase to be Gaussian-like and the noise in CDI images approximated as a Gaussian. This finding matches experimental results. We further investigated this finding by performing comparative analysis with denoising techniques, using two CDI datasets with two different currents (20 and 45 mA). We found that the block-matching and three-dimensional (BM3D) technique outperforms other techniques when applied on current density (J). The minimum gain in noise power by BM3D applied to J compared with the next best technique in the analysis was found to be around 2 dB per pixel. We characterize the noise profile in CDI images and provide insights on the performance of different denoising techniques when applied at two different stages of current density reconstruction. PMID:26158100

Visualizing Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) in vivo using Magnetic Resonance Imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jog, Mayank Anant

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) is a low-cost, non-invasive neuromodulation technique that has been shown to treat clinical symptoms as well as improve cognition. However, no techniques exist at the time of research to visualize tDCS currents in vivo. This dissertation presents the theoretical framework and experimental implementations of a novel MRI technique that enables non-invasive visualization of the tDCS electric current using magnetic field mapping. The first chapter establishes the feasibility of measuring magnetic fields induced by tDCS currents. The following chapter discusses the state of the art implementation that can measure magnetic field changes in individual subjects undergoing concurrent tDCS/MRI. The final chapter discusses how the developed technique was integrated with BOLD fMRI-an established MRI technique for measuring brain function. By enabling a concurrent measurement of the tDCS current induced magnetic field as well as the brain's hemodynamic response to tDCS, our technique opens a new avenue to investigate tDCS mechanisms and improve targeting.

Field-aligned electric currents and their measurement by the incoherent backscatter technique

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bauer, P.; Cole, K. D.; Lejeume, G.

1975-01-01

Field aligned electric currents flow in the magnetosphere in many situations of fundamental geophysical interest. It is shown here that the incoherent backscatter technique can be used to measure these currents when the plasma line can be observed. The technique provides a ground based means of measuring these currents which complements the rocket and satellite ones.

Eddy current technique for predicting burst pressure

DOEpatents

Petri, Mark C.; Kupperman, David S.; Morman, James A.; Reifman, Jaques; Wei, Thomas Y. C.

2003-01-01

A signal processing technique which correlates eddy current inspection data from a tube having a critical tubing defect with a range of predicted burst pressures for the tube is provided. The method can directly correlate the raw eddy current inspection data representing the critical tubing defect with the range of burst pressures using a regression technique, preferably an artificial neural network. Alternatively, the technique deconvolves the raw eddy current inspection data into a set of undistorted signals, each of which represents a separate defect of the tube. The undistorted defect signal which represents the critical tubing defect is related to a range of burst pressures utilizing a regression technique.

Lattice Matched Iii-V IV Semiconductor Heterostructures: Metalorganic Chemical Vapor Deposition and Remote Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Choi, Sungwoo

1992-01-01

This thesis describes the growth and characterization of wide gap III-V compound semiconductors such as aluminum gallium arsenide (Al_{rm x} Ga_{rm 1-x}As), gallium nitride (GaN), and gallium phosphide (GaP), deposited by the metalorganic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) and remote plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (Remote PECVD). In the first part of the thesis, the optimization of GaAs and Al_{rm x}Ga _{rm 1-x}As hetero -epitaxial layers on Ge substrates is described in the context of the application in the construction of cascade solar cells. The emphasis on this study is on the trade-offs in the choice of the temperature related to increasing interdiffusion/autodoping and increasing perfection of the epilayer with increasing temperature. The structural, chemical, optical, and electrical properties of the heterostructures are characterized by x-ray rocking curve measurement, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electron beam induced current (EBIC), cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy (X-TEM), Raman spectroscopy, secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS), and steady-state and time-resolved photoluminescence (PL). Based on the results of this work the optimum growth temperature is 720^circC. The second part of the thesis describes the growth of GaN and GaP layers on silicon and sapphire substrates and the homoepitaxy of GaP by remote PECVD. I have designed and built an ultra high vacuum (UHV) deposition system which includes: the gas supply system, the pumping system, the deposition chamber, the load-lock chamber, and the waste disposal system. The work on the deposition of GaN on Si and sapphire focuses onto the understanding of the growth kinetics. In addition, Auger electron spectroscopy (AES) for surface analysis, x-ray diffraction methods and microscopic analyses using SEM and TEM for structural characterization, infrared (IR) and ultraviolet (UV) absorption measurements for optical characterization, and electrical characterization results on the GaN films are presented. In the deposition GaP thin films by remote PECVD, trimethylgallium and in-situ generated phosphine precursors are employed as source gases which permits homo- and heteroepitaxial growth as substrate temperature of 590-620^ circC. Also, the growth kinetics of gallium phosphide is discussed. As in the case of GaN, the surface, structural, chemical, optical, and electrical properties are characterized and the results are discussed.

Digital High-Current Monitor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cash, B.

1985-01-01

Simple technique developed for monitoring direct currents up to several hundred amperes and digitally displaying values directly in current units. Used to monitor current magnitudes beyond range of standard laboratory ammeters, which typically measure 10 to 20 amperes maximum. Technique applicable to any current-monitoring situation.

In-vivo Imaging of Magnetic Fields Induced by Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) in Human Brain using MRI

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jog, Mayank V.; Smith, Robert X.; Jann, Kay; Dunn, Walter; Lafon, Belen; Truong, Dennis; Wu, Allan; Parra, Lucas; Bikson, Marom; Wang, Danny J. J.

2016-10-01

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is an emerging non-invasive neuromodulation technique that applies mA currents at the scalp to modulate cortical excitability. Here, we present a novel magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique, which detects magnetic fields induced by tDCS currents. This technique is based on Ampere’s law and exploits the linear relationship between direct current and induced magnetic fields. Following validation on a phantom with a known path of electric current and induced magnetic field, the proposed MRI technique was applied to a human limb (to demonstrate in-vivo feasibility using simple biological tissue) and human heads (to demonstrate feasibility in standard tDCS applications). The results show that the proposed technique detects tDCS induced magnetic fields as small as a nanotesla at millimeter spatial resolution. Through measurements of magnetic fields linearly proportional to the applied tDCS current, our approach opens a new avenue for direct in-vivo visualization of tDCS target engagement.

A test technique for measuring lightning-induced voltages on aircraft electrical circuits

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Walko, L. C.

1974-01-01

The development of a test technique used for the measurement of lightning-induced voltages in the electrical circuits of a complete aircraft is described. The resultant technique utilizes a portable device known as a transient analyzer capable of generating unidirectional current impulses similar to lightning current surges, but at a lower current level. A linear relationship between the magnitude of lightning current and the magnitude of induced voltage permitted the scaling up of measured induced values to full threat levels. The test technique was found to be practical when used on a complete aircraft.

Improvement in Magnetic Techniques for Rail Inspection

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1981-06-01

Current inspection of rail for internal defects is carried out by ultrasonic and/or magnetic technique for inspecting rail for internal flaws. The major emphasis was placed on improving the speed and detectability of current techniques. Experimental ...

A constant current charge technique for low Earth orbit life testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Glueck, Peter

1991-01-01

A constant current charge technique for low earth orbit testing of nickel cadmium cells is presented. The method mimics the familiar taper charge of the constant potential technique while maintaining cell independence for statistical analysis. A detailed example application is provided and the advantages and disadvantages of this technique are discussed.

Investigation of the effects of external current systems on the MAGSAT data utilizing grid cell modeling techniques

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Klumpar, D. M. (Principal Investigator)

1981-01-01

Progress is reported in reading MAGSAT tapes in modeling procedure developed to compute the magnetic fields at satellite orbit due to current distributions in the ionosphere. The modeling technique utilizes a linear current element representation of the large-scale space-current system.

[Application of three-dimensional printing technique in orthopaedics].

PubMed

Luo, Qiang; Lau, Tak Wing; Fang, Xinshuo; Leung, Frankie

2014-03-01

To review the current progress of three-dimensional (3-D) printing technique in the clinical practice, its limitations and prospects. The recent publications associated with the clinical application of 3-D printing technique in the field of surgery, especially in orthopaedics were extensively reviewed. Currently, 3-D printing technique has been applied in orthopaedic surgery to aid diagnosis, make operative plans, and produce personalized prosthesis or implants. 3-D printing technique is a promising technique in clinical application.

Investigation of the effects of external current systems on the MAGSAT data utilizing grid cell modeling techniques

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Klumpar, D. M. (Principal Investigator)

1982-01-01

The status of the initial testing of the modeling procedure developed to compute the magnetic fields at satellite orbit due to current distributions in the ionosphere and magnetosphere is reported. The modeling technique utilizes a linear current element representation of the large scale space-current system.

Lightning induced currents in aircraft wiring using low level injection techniques

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stevens, E. G.; Jordan, D. T.

1991-01-01

Various techniques were studied to predict the transient current induced into aircraft wiring bundles as a result of an aircraft lightning strike. A series of aircraft measurements were carried out together with a theoretical analysis using computer modeling. These tests were applied to various aircraft and also to specially constructed cylinders installed within coaxial return conductor systems. Low level swept frequency CW (carrier waves), low level transient and high level transient injection tests were applied to the aircraft and cylinders. Measurements were made to determine the transfer function between the aircraft drive current and the resulting skin currents and currents induced on the internal wiring. The full threat lightning induced transient currents were extrapolated from the low level data using Fourier transform techniques. The aircraft and cylinders used were constructed from both metallic and CFC (carbon fiber composite) materials. The results show the pulse stretching phenomenon which occurs for CFC materials due to the diffusion of the lightning current through carbon fiber materials. Transmission Line Matrix modeling techniques were used to compare theoretical and measured currents.

Non-Destructive Techniques Based on Eddy Current Testing

PubMed Central

García-Martín, Javier; Gómez-Gil, Jaime; Vázquez-Sánchez, Ernesto

2011-01-01

Non-destructive techniques are used widely in the metal industry in order to control the quality of materials. Eddy current testing is one of the most extensively used non-destructive techniques for inspecting electrically conductive materials at very high speeds that does not require any contact between the test piece and the sensor. This paper includes an overview of the fundamentals and main variables of eddy current testing. It also describes the state-of-the-art sensors and modern techniques such as multi-frequency and pulsed systems. Recent advances in complex models towards solving crack-sensor interaction, developments in instrumentation due to advances in electronic devices, and the evolution of data processing suggest that eddy current testing systems will be increasingly used in the future. PMID:22163754

Non-destructive techniques based on eddy current testing.

PubMed

García-Martín, Javier; Gómez-Gil, Jaime; Vázquez-Sánchez, Ernesto

2011-01-01

Non-destructive techniques are used widely in the metal industry in order to control the quality of materials. Eddy current testing is one of the most extensively used non-destructive techniques for inspecting electrically conductive materials at very high speeds that does not require any contact between the test piece and the sensor. This paper includes an overview of the fundamentals and main variables of eddy current testing. It also describes the state-of-the-art sensors and modern techniques such as multi-frequency and pulsed systems. Recent advances in complex models towards solving crack-sensor interaction, developments in instrumentation due to advances in electronic devices, and the evolution of data processing suggest that eddy current testing systems will be increasingly used in the future.

Multigrid techniques for unstructured meshes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mavriplis, D. J.

1995-01-01

An overview of current multigrid techniques for unstructured meshes is given. The basic principles of the multigrid approach are first outlined. Application of these principles to unstructured mesh problems is then described, illustrating various different approaches, and giving examples of practical applications. Advanced multigrid topics, such as the use of algebraic multigrid methods, and the combination of multigrid techniques with adaptive meshing strategies are dealt with in subsequent sections. These represent current areas of research, and the unresolved issues are discussed. The presentation is organized in an educational manner, for readers familiar with computational fluid dynamics, wishing to learn more about current unstructured mesh techniques.

Endoscopic-assisted Distal Biceps Footprint Repair.

PubMed

Phadnis, Joideep; Bain, Gregory

2015-06-01

Distal biceps tendon ruptures have been treated successfully with a variety of techniques; however, no current technique is able to restore the biceps to its native footprint on the ulnar surface of the radial tuberosity. We describe a technique, using an endobutton that better recreates the anatomic distal biceps footprint. This is likely to better restore absoloute and repetitive supination strength, which is not reliably achieved with current techniques.

Analysis of Proportional Integral and Optimized Proportional Integral Controllers for Resistance Spot Welding System (RSWS) - A Performance Perspective

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rama Subbanna, S.; Suryakalavathi, M., Dr.

2017-08-01

This paper is an attempt to accomplish a performance analysis of the different control techniques on spikes reduction method applied on the medium frequency transformer based DC spot welding system. Spike reduction is an important factor to be considered while spot welding systems are concerned. During normal RSWS operation welding transformer’s magnetic core can become saturated due to the unbalanced resistances of both transformer secondary windings and different characteristics of output rectifier diodes, which causes current spikes and over-current protection switch-off of the entire system. The current control technique is a piecewise linear control technique that is inspired from the DC-DC converter control algorithms to register a novel spike reduction method in the MFDC spot welding applications. Two controllers that were used for the spike reduction portion of the overall applications involve the traditional PI controller and Optimized PI controller. Care is taken such that the current control technique would maintain a reduced spikes in the primary current of the transformer while it reduces the Total Harmonic Distortion. The performance parameter that is involved in the spikes reduction technique is the THD, Percentage of current spike reduction for both techniques. Matlab/SimulinkTM based simulation is carried out for the MFDC RSWS with KW and results are tabulated for the PI and Optimized PI controllers and a tradeoff analysis is carried out.

Detecting defects in marine structures by using eddy current infrared thermography.

PubMed

Swiderski, W

2016-12-01

Eddy current infrared (IR) thermography is a new nondestructive testing (NDT) technique used for the detection of cracks in electroconductive materials. By combining the well-established inspection methods of eddy current NDT and IR thermography, this technique uses induced eddy currents to heat test samples. In this way, IR thermography allows the visualization of eddy current distribution that is distorted in defect sites. This paper discusses the results of numerical modeling of eddy current IR thermography procedures in application to marine structures.

Explorations of electric current system in solar active regions. I - Empirical inferences of the current flows

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ding, Y. J.; Hong, Q. F.; Hagyard, M. J.; Deloach, A. C.; Liu, X. P.

1987-01-01

Techniques to identify sources of electric current systems and their channels of flow in solar active regions are explored. Measured photospheric vector magnetic fields together with high-resolution white-light and H-alpha filtergrams provide the data base to derive the current systems in the photosphere and chromosphere. As an example, the techniques are then applied to infer current systems in AR 2372 in early April 1980.

Automatic tube current modulation technique for multidetector CT: is it effective with a 64-detector CT?

PubMed

Funama, Yoshinori; Awai, Kazuo; Hatemura, Masahiro; Shimamura, Masamitchi; Yanaga, Yumi; Oda, Seitaro; Yamashita, Yasuyuki

2008-01-01

To investigate whether it is possible to obtain adequate images at uniform image noise levels and reduced radiation exposure with our automatic tube current modulation (ATCM) technique for 64-detector CT. The study population consisted of 64 patients with known or suspected lung or abdominal disease. We used a 64-detector CT scanner (LightSpeed VCT, GE Healthcare, Waukesha, WI, USA) and a combined angular and longitudinal tube current modulation technique (Smart mA, GE Healthcare, Waukesha, WI, USA) to examine 34 patients. The scanning parameters were identical; the minimum and maximum tube current thresholds were 50 and 800 mA, respectively. For study of the constant tube current technique, 30 additional patients were examined at 350 mA. The CT number and image noise (SD of the CT number) were measured in the 64 patients at six levels, i.e., the center of the left ventricle, the liver dome, the porta hepatis, the center of the spleen and the right and left renal pelvis. When we used the ATCM technique, the mean image noise ranged from 8.40 at the center of the left ventricle to 11.31 at the porta hepatis; the mean tube current ranged from 105.9 mAs at the center of the left ventricle to 169.6 mAs at the center of the spleen. The mean dose reduction rate per constant tube current at 175 mAs ranged from 3.1 to 39.5%. By use of the ATCM technique, it is possible to maintain a constant image noise level with a 64-detector CT.

Non-destructive testing of composite materials used in military applications by eddy current thermography method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Swiderski, Waldemar

2016-10-01

Eddy current thermography is a new NDT-technique for the detection of cracks in electro conductive materials. It combines the well-established inspection techniques of eddy current testing and thermography. The technique uses induced eddy currents to heat the sample being tested and defect detection is based on the changes of induced eddy currents flows revealed by thermal visualization captured by an infrared camera. The advantage of this method is to use the high performance of eddy current testing that eliminates the known problem of the edge effect. Especially for components of complex geometry this is an important factor which may overcome the increased expense for inspection set-up. The paper presents the possibility of applying eddy current thermography method for detecting defects in ballistic covers made of carbon fiber reinforced composites used in the construction of military vehicles.

The Generation of Novel MR Imaging Techniques to Visualize Inflammatory/Degenerative Mechanisms and the Correlation of MR Data with 3D Microscopic Changes

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-09-01

existing MR scanning systems providing the ability to visualize structures that are impossible with current methods . Using techniques to concurrently...and unique system for analysis of affected brain regions and coupled with other imaging techniques and molecular measurements holds significant...scanning systems providing the ability to visualize structures that are impossible with current methods . Using techniques to concurrently stain

Transbronchial cryobiopsy for diffuse parenchymal lung disease: a state-of-the-art review of procedural techniques, current evidence, and future challenges.

PubMed

Lentz, Robert J; Argento, A Christine; Colby, Thomas V; Rickman, Otis B; Maldonado, Fabien

2017-07-01

Transbronchial lung biopsy with a cryoprobe, or cryobiopsy, is a promising new bronchoscopic biopsy technique capable of obtaining larger and better-preserved samples than previously possible using traditional biopsy forceps. Over two dozen case series and several small randomized trials are now available describing experiences with this technique, largely for the diagnosis of diffuse parenchymal lung disease (DPLD), in which the reported diagnostic yield is typically 70% to 80%. Cryobiopsy technique varies widely between centers and this predominantly single center-based retrospective literature heterogeneously defines diagnostic yield and complications, limiting the degree to which this technique can be compared between centers or to surgical lung biopsy (SLB). This review explores the broad range of cryobiopsy techniques currently in use, their rationale, the current state of the literature, and suggestions for the direction of future study into this promising but unproven procedure.

Comparison of image quality and radiation dose between fixed tube current and combined automatic tube current modulation in craniocervical CT angiography.

PubMed

Lee, E J; Lee, S K; Agid, R; Howard, P; Bae, J M; terBrugge, K

2009-10-01

The combined automatic tube current modulation (ATCM) technique adapts and modulates the x-ray tube current in the x-y-z axis according to the patient's individual anatomy. We compared image quality and radiation dose of the combined ATCM technique with those of a fixed tube current (FTC) technique in craniocervical CT angiography performed with a 64-section multidetector row CT (MDCT) system. A retrospective review of craniocervical CT angiograms (CTAs) by using combined ATCM (n = 25) and FTC techniques (n = 25) was performed. Other CTA parameters, such as kilovolt (peak), matrix size, FOV, section thickness, pitch, contrast agent, and contrast injection techniques, were held constant. We recorded objective image noise in the muscles at 2 anatomic levels: radiation exposure doses (CT dose index volume and dose-length product); and subjective image quality parameters, such as vascular delineation of various arterial vessels, visibility of small arterial detail, image artifacts, and certainty of diagnosis. The Mann-Whitney U test was used for statistical analysis. No significant difference was detected in subjective image quality parameters between the FTC and combined ATCM techniques. Most subjects in both study groups (49/50, 98%) had acceptable subjective artifacts. The objective image noise values at shoulder level did not show a significant difference, but the noise value at the upper neck was higher with the combined ATCM (P < .05) technique. Significant reduction in radiation dose (18% reduction) was noted with the combined ATCM technique (P < .05). The combined ATCM technique for craniocervical CTA performed at 64-section MDCT substantially reduced radiation exposure dose but maintained diagnostic image quality.

Factors influencing behavior guidance: a survey of practicing pediatric dentists.

PubMed

Juntgen, Laura M; Sanders, Brian J; Walker, Laquia A; Jones, James E; Weddell, James A; Tomlin, Angela M; Eckert, George; Maupome, Gerardo

2013-01-01

The purpose of this study was to identify factors influencing behavior guidance technique utilization among practicing pediatric dentists and explore potential barriers to the incorporation of previously unused techniques. The data for this study were obtained from a web-based survey containing 15 multiple choice questions concerning the practitioners' past, current, and anticipated future behavior guidance technique utilization. Most respondents received hands-on training in 10 of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry behavior guidance techniques. The type of training was associated with the practitioners' level of comfort using a given technique upon graduation and with the current frequency of technique utilization. Residency type impacted hands-on behavior guidance training, with 39 percent of respondents reporting no intravenous sedation training. The type of practice was associated with the frequency of behavior guidance technique utilization, as was graduation decade. Currently practicing dentists cited legal concerns, parental acceptance to change, and limited resources as perceived obstacles in the incorporation of new techniques. Behavior guidance technique selection and utilization among practicing pediatric dentists was influenced by multiple factors, including advanced education training, residency type, graduation decade, and practice type. Obstacles to the incorporation of previously unused techniques appear to be multifactorial.

Modeling of switching regulator power stages with and without zero-inductor-current dwell time

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, F. C. Y.; Yu, Y.

1979-01-01

State-space techniques are employed to derive accurate models for the three basic switching converter power stages: buck, boost, and buck/boost operating with and without zero-inductor-current dwell time. A generalized procedure is developed which treats the continuous-inductor-current mode without dwell time as a special case of the discontinuous-current mode when the dwell time vanishes. Abrupt changes of system behavior, including a reduction of the system order when the dwell time appears, are shown both analytically and experimentally. Merits resulting from the present modeling technique in comparison with existing modeling techniques are illustrated.

Surgical treatment of hemorrhoids: a critical appraisal of the current options.

PubMed

Cerato, Marlise Mello; Cerato, Nilo Luiz; Passos, Patrícia; Treigue, Alberto; Damin, Daniel C

2014-01-01

Surgical treatment of hemorrhoids is still a dilemma. New techniques have been developed leading to a lower rate of postoperative pain; however, they are associated with a greater likelihood of recurrence. To review current indications as well as the results and complications of the main techniques currently used in the surgical treatment of hemorrhoidal disease. A systematic search of the published data on the options for treatment of hemorrhoids up to December 2012 was conducted using Medline/PubMed, Cochrane, and UpToDate. Currently available surgical treatment options include procedure for prolapse and hemorrhoids (PPH), transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization (THD), and conventional hemorrhoidectomy techniques. Excisional techniques showed similar results regarding pain, time to return to normal activities, and complication rates. PPH and THD were associated with less postoperative pain and lower complication rates; however, both had higher postoperative recurrence rates. Conventional surgical techniques yield better long-term results. Despite good results in the immediate postoperative period, PPH and THD have not shown consistent long-term favorable results.

Why bundled payments could drive innovation: an example from interventional oncology.

PubMed

Steele, Joseph R; Jones, A Kyle; Ninan, Elizabeth P; Clarke, Ryan K; Odisio, Bruno C; Avritscher, Rony; Murthy, Ravi; Mahvash, Armeen

2015-03-01

Some have suggested that the current fee-for-service health care payment system in the United States stifles innovation. However, there are few published examples supporting this concept. We implemented an innovative temporary balloon occlusion technique for yttrium 90 radioembolization of nonresectable liver cancer. Although our balloon occlusion technique was associated with similar patient outcomes, lower cost, and faster procedure times compared with the standard-of-care coil embolization technique, our technique failed to gain widespread acceptance. Financial analysis revealed that because the balloon occlusion technique avoided a procedural step associated with a lucrative Current Procedural Terminology billing code, this new technique resulted in a significant decrease in hospital and physician revenue in the current fee-for-service payment system, even though the new technique would provide a revenue enhancement through cost savings in a bundled payment system. Our analysis illustrates how in a fee-for-service payment system, financial disincentives can stifle innovation and advancement of health care delivery. Copyright © 2015 by American Society of Clinical Oncology.

Psycholinguistic Techniques and Resources in Second Language Acquisition Research

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Roberts, Leah

2012-01-01

In this article, a survey of current psycholinguistic techniques relevant to second language acquisition (SLA) research is presented. I summarize many of the available methods and discuss their use with particular reference to two critical questions in current SLA research: (1) What does a learner's current knowledge of the second language (L2)…

The Current Status of Peer Assessment Techniques and Sociometric Methods

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bukowski, William M.; Castellanos, Melisa; Persram, Ryan J.

2017-01-01

Current issues in the use of peer assessment techniques and sociometric methods are discussed. Attention is paid to the contributions of the four articles in this volume. Together these contributions point to the continual level of change and progress in these techniques. They also show that the paradigm underlying these methods has been unchanged…

High accuracy switched-current circuits using an improved dynamic mirror

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zweigle, G.; Fiez, T.

1991-01-01

The switched-current technique, a recently developed circuit approach to analog signal processing, has emerged as an alternative/compliment to the well established switched-capacitor circuit technique. High speed switched-current circuits offer potential cost and power savings over slower switched-capacitor circuits. Accuracy improvements are a primary concern at this stage in the development of the switched-current technique. Use of the dynamic current mirror has produced circuits that are insensitive to transistor matching errors. The dynamic current mirror has been limited by other sources of error including clock-feedthrough and voltage transient errors. In this paper we present an improved switched-current building block using the dynamic current mirror. Utilizing current feedback the errors due to current imbalance in the dynamic current mirror are reduced. Simulations indicate that this feedback can reduce total harmonic distortion by as much as 9 dB. Additionally, we have developed a clock-feedthrough reduction scheme for which simulations reveal a potential 10 dB total harmonic distortion improvement. The clock-feedthrough reduction scheme also significantly reduces offset errors and allows for cancellation with a constant current source. Experimental results confirm the simulated improvements.

Nondestructive examination of recovery stage during annealing of a cold-rolled low-carbon steel using eddy current testing technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seyfpour, M.; Ghanei, S.; Mazinani, M.; Kashefi, M.; Davis, C.

2018-04-01

The recovery process in steel is usually investigated by conventional destructive tests that are expensive, time-consuming and also cumbersome. In this study, an alternative non-destructive test technique (based on eddy current testing) is used to characterise the recovery process during annealing of cold-rolled low-carbon steels. For assessing the reliability of eddy current results corresponding to different levels of recovery, X-ray line broadening analysis is also employed. It is shown that there is a strong relationship between eddy current outputs and the extent to which recovery occurs at different annealing temperatures. Accordingly, the non-destructive eddy current test technique represents the potential to be used as a reliable process for detection of the occurrence of recovery in the steel microstructure.

[Methods of brain stimulation based on weak electric current--future tool for the clinician?].

PubMed

Kotilainen, Tuukka; Lehto, Soili M

2016-01-01

Methods of brain stimulation based on a weak electric current are non-invasive neuromodulation techniques. They include transcranial direct current, alternating current and random noise stimulation. These methods modify the membrane potential of neurons without triggering the action potential, and have been successfully utilized to influence cognition and regulation of emotions in healthy experimental subjects. In clinical studies, indications of the efficacy of these techniques have been obtained in the treatment of depression, schizophrenia, memory disorders and pain as well as in stroke rehabilitation. It is hoped that these techniques will become established as part of the care and rehabilitation of psychiatric and neurologic patients in the future.

Endoscopic full-thickness resection: Current status

PubMed Central

Schmidt, Arthur; Meier, Benjamin; Caca, Karel

2015-01-01

Conventional endoscopic resection techniques such as endoscopic mucosal resection or endoscopic submucosal dissection are powerful tools for treatment of gastrointestinal neoplasms. However, those techniques are restricted to superficial layers of the gastrointestinal wall. Endoscopic full-thickness resection (EFTR) is an evolving technique, which is just about to enter clinical routine. It is not only a powerful tool for diagnostic tissue acquisition but also has the potential to spare surgical therapy in selected patients. This review will give an overview about current EFTR techniques and devices. PMID:26309354

Endoscopic full-thickness resection: Current status.

PubMed

Schmidt, Arthur; Meier, Benjamin; Caca, Karel

2015-08-21

Conventional endoscopic resection techniques such as endoscopic mucosal resection or endoscopic submucosal dissection are powerful tools for treatment of gastrointestinal neoplasms. However, those techniques are restricted to superficial layers of the gastrointestinal wall. Endoscopic full-thickness resection (EFTR) is an evolving technique, which is just about to enter clinical routine. It is not only a powerful tool for diagnostic tissue acquisition but also has the potential to spare surgical therapy in selected patients. This review will give an overview about current EFTR techniques and devices.

Eddy-Current Detection Of Cracks In Reinforced Carbon/Carbon

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Christensen, Scott V.; Koshti, Ajay M.

1995-01-01

Investigations of failures of components made of reinforced carbon/carbon show eddy-current flaw-detection techniques applicable to these components. Investigation focused on space shuttle parts, but applicable to other parts made of carbon/carbon materials. Techniques reveal cracks, too small to be detected visually, in carbon/carbon matrix substrates and in silicon carbide coates on substrates. Also reveals delaminations in carbon/carbon matrices. Used to characterize extents and locations of discontinuities in substrates in situations in which ultrasonic techniques and destructive techniques not practical.

Simulation study and experimental results for detection and classification of the transient capacitor inrush current using discrete wavelet transform and artificial intelligence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Patcharoen, Theerasak; Yoomak, Suntiti; Ngaopitakkul, Atthapol; Pothisarn, Chaichan

2018-04-01

This paper describes the combination of discrete wavelet transforms (DWT) and artificial intelligence (AI), which are efficient techniques to identify the type of inrush current, analyze the origin and possible cause on the capacitor bank switching. The experiment setup used to verify the proposed techniques can be detected and classified the transient inrush current from normal capacitor rated current. The discrete wavelet transforms are used to detect and classify the inrush current. Then, output from wavelet is acted as input of fuzzy inference system for discriminating the type of switching transient inrush current. The proposed technique shows enhanced performance with a discrimination accuracy of 90.57%. Both simulation study and experimental results are quite satisfactory with providing the high accuracy and reliability which can be developed and implemented into a numerical overcurrent (50/51) and unbalanced current (60C) protection relay for an application of shunt capacitor bank protection in the future.

Investigation of the effects of external current systems on the MAGSAT data utilizing grid cell modeling techniques

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Klumpar, D. M. (Principal Investigator)

1982-01-01

Progress made in reducing MAGSAT data and displaying magnetic field perturbations caused primarily by external currents is reported. A periodic and repeatable perturbation pattern is described that arises from external current effects but appears as unique signatures associated with upper middle latitudes on the Earth's surface. Initial testing of the modeling procedure that was developed to compute the magnetic fields at satellite orbit due to current distributions in the ionosphere and magnetosphere is also discussed. The modeling technique utilizes a linear current element representation of the large scale space current system.

Alternative Shapes and Shaping Techniques for Enhanced Transformer Ratios in Beam Driven Techniques

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

Lemery, F.; Piot, P.

The transformer ration of collinear beam-driven techniques can be significantly improved by shaping the current profile of the drive bunch. To date, several current shapes have been proposed to increase the transformer ratio and produce quasi-uniform energy loss within the drive bunch. Some of these tailoring techniques are possible as a results of recent beam-dynamics advances, e.g., transverse-to-longitudinal emittance exchanger. In ths paper, we propose an alternative class of longitudinal shapes that enable high transformer ratio and uniform energy loss across the drive bunch. We also suggest a simple method based on photocathode-laser shaping and passive shaping in wakefield structuremore » to realize shape close to the theoretically optimized current profiles.« less

An improved dual-frequency technique for the remote sensing of ocean currents and wave spectra

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schuler, D. L.; Eng, W. P.

1984-01-01

A two frequency microwave radar technique for the remote sensing of directional ocean wave spectra and surface currents is investigated. This technique is conceptually attractive because its operational physical principle involves a spatial electromagnetic scattering resonance with a single, but selectable, long gravity wave. Multiplexing of signals having different spacing of the two transmitted frequencies allows measurements of the entire long wave ocean spectrum to be carried out. A new scatterometer is developed and experimentally tested which is capable of making measurements having much larger signal/background values than previously possible. This instrument couples the resonance technique with coherent, frequency agility radar capabilities. This scatterometer is presently configured for supporting a program of surface current measurements.

SURGICAL TREATMENT OF HEMORRHOIDS: A CRITICAL APPRAISAL OF THE CURRENT OPTIONS

PubMed Central

CERATO, Marlise Mello; CERATO, Nilo Luiz; PASSOS, Patrícia; TREIGUE, Alberto; DAMIN, Daniel C.

2014-01-01

Introduction Surgical treatment of hemorrhoids is still a dilemma. New techniques have been developed leading to a lower rate of postoperative pain; however, they are associated with a greater likelihood of recurrence. Aim To review current indications as well as the results and complications of the main techniques currently used in the surgical treatment of hemorrhoidal disease. Methods A systematic search of the published data on the options for treatment of hemorrhoids up to December 2012 was conducted using Medline/PubMed, Cochrane, and UpToDate. Results Currently available surgical treatment options include procedure for prolapse and hemorrhoids (PPH), transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization (THD), and conventional hemorrhoidectomy techniques. Excisional techniques showed similar results regarding pain, time to return to normal activities, and complication rates. PPH and THD were associated with less postoperative pain and lower complication rates; however, both had higher postoperative recurrence rates. Conclusion Conventional surgical techniques yield better long-term results. Despite good results in the immediate postoperative period, PPH and THD have not shown consistent long-term favorable results. PMID:24676303

Evaluation of new laser spectrometer techniques for in-situ carbon monoxide measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zellweger, C.; Steinbacher, M.; Buchmann, B.

2012-10-01

Long-term time series of the atmospheric composition are essential for environmental research and thus require compatible, multi-decadal monitoring activities. The current data quality objectives of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) for carbon monoxide (CO) in the atmosphere are very challenging to meet with the measurement techniques that have been used until recently. During the past few years, new spectroscopic techniques came to market with promising properties for trace gas analytics. The current study compares three instruments that have recently become commercially available (since 2011) with the best currently available technique (Vacuum UV Fluorescence) and provides a link to previous comparison studies. The instruments were investigated for their performance regarding repeatability, reproducibility, drift, temperature dependence, water vapour interference and linearity. Finally, all instruments were examined during a short measurement campaign to assess their applicability for long-term field measurements. It could be shown that the new techniques perform considerably better compared to previous techniques, although some issues, such as temperature influence and cross sensitivities, need further attention.

Operational prediction of rip currents using numerical model and nearshore bathymetry from video images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sembiring, L.; Van Ormondt, M.; Van Dongeren, A. R.; Roelvink, J. A.

2017-07-01

Rip currents are one of the most dangerous coastal hazards for swimmers. In order to minimize the risk, a coastal operational-process based-model system can be utilized in order to provide forecast of nearshore waves and currents that may endanger beach goers. In this paper, an operational model for rip current prediction by utilizing nearshore bathymetry obtained from video image technique is demonstrated. For the nearshore scale model, XBeach1 is used with which tidal currents, wave induced currents (including the effect of the wave groups) can be simulated simultaneously. Up-to-date bathymetry will be obtained using video images technique, cBathy 2. The system will be tested for the Egmond aan Zee beach, located in the northern part of the Dutch coastline. This paper will test the applicability of bathymetry obtained from video technique to be used as input for the numerical modelling system by comparing simulation results using surveyed bathymetry and model results using video bathymetry. Results show that the video technique is able to produce bathymetry converging towards the ground truth observations. This bathymetry validation will be followed by an example of operational forecasting type of simulation on predicting rip currents. Rip currents flow fields simulated over measured and modeled bathymetries are compared in order to assess the performance of the proposed forecast system.

Use of the 'Hall technique' for management of carious primary molars among Scottish general dental practitioners.

PubMed

Dean, A A; Bark, J E; Sherriff, A; Macpherson, L M D; Cairns, A

2011-06-01

To assess the current awareness, usage and opinion of the Hall technique as a restorative option for primary molars in Scottish general dental practice; and to identify preferences for methods of further training, if desired, for those not currently using the technique. A postal questionnaire was sent to a random sample of Scottish general dental practitioners (GDPs) (n= 1207). Half of all GDPs within each health board were mailed. All analyses have been carried out in Minitab (version 15). The study is primarily descriptive and uses frequency distributions and cross-tabulations. Percentages are reported with p5% confidence intervals. Characteristics of the whole sample were reported. However when reporting the use of the Hall technique, only those GDP's reporting to treat children, at least sometimes are considered. Following two mail-shots, the overall response rate was 59% (715/1207). Eighty-six percent (616/715) of respondents were aware of the Hall technique as a method of restoring primary molars and 48 % (n=318) were currently using the Hall technique. Of those GDPs who never used the Hall technique (51% of total respondents; n=340), 46% (n=157) indicated they were either 'very interested' or 'interested' in adopting the Hall technique into their clinical practice. The preferred source for further training was via a section 63 continuing professional development (CPD) course, incorporating a practical element. Of those GDPs in Scotland who responded to the questionnaire, an unexpectedly high number were already using the Hall technique in their practice, and among those not currently using it, there is a demand for training.

Standardizing the Delivery of 20 μL of Hapten During Patch Testing.

PubMed

Selvick, Annika; Stauss, Kari; Strobush, Katrina; Taylor, Lauren; Picard, Alexandra; Doll, Andrea; Reeder, Margo

2016-01-01

The current method for patch test tray assembly requires hand dispensing a small volume of hapten onto chambers. Because of human error, this technique produces inaccurate and inconsistent results. The recommended volume of hapten for patch testing using Finn Chambers is 20 μL. The aims of this study were to create a device that standardizes the delivery of 20 μL and to compare it with the current hand dispensing technique. A device, named the Revolution, was created using the SolidWorks program. Five nurses in our Contact Dermatitis Clinic were asked to load 10 Finn Chambers using the current technique and also using the Revolution. Assembly time, volume of petrolatum, and accuracy of placement were measured. After the 3 trials, the nurses completed a survey on the 2 methods. The amount of petrolatum dispensed using the current technique ranged from 16 to 85 μL, with an average amount of 41.39 μL. The Revolution design dispensed an average of 19.78 μL. The current hand dispensing technique does not allow for accurate and consistent dispensing of 20 μL for patch testing. In contrast, the Revolution is an accurate and consistent device that can help standardize the patch testing method.

A Sub-filter Scale Noise Equation far Hybrid LES Simulations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goldstein, Marvin E.

2006-01-01

Hybrid LES/subscale modeling approaches have an important advantage over the current noise prediction methods in that they only involve modeling of the relatively universal subscale motion and not the configuration dependent larger scale turbulence . Previous hybrid approaches use approximate statistical techniques or extrapolation methods to obtain the requisite information about the sub-filter scale motion. An alternative approach would be to adopt the modeling techniques used in the current noise prediction methods and determine the unknown stresses from experimental data. The present paper derives an equation for predicting the sub scale sound from information that can be obtained with currently available experimental procedures. The resulting prediction method would then be intermediate between the current noise prediction codes and previously proposed hybrid techniques.

Teaching alternatives to the standard inferior alveolar nerve block in dental education: outcomes in clinical practice.

PubMed

Johnson, Thomas M; Badovinac, Rachel; Shaefer, Jeffry

2007-09-01

Surveys were sent to Harvard School of Dental Medicine students and graduates from the classes of 2000 through 2006 to determine their current primary means of achieving mandibular anesthesia. Orthodontists and orthodontic residents were excluded. All subjects received clinical training in the conventional inferior alveolar nerve block and two alternative techniques (the Akinosi mandibular block and the Gow-Gates mandibular block) during their predoctoral dental education. This study tests the hypothesis that students and graduates who received training in the conventional inferior alveolar nerve block, the Akinosi mandibular block, and the Gow-Gates mandibular block will report more frequent current utilization of alternatives to the conventional inferior alveolar nerve block than clinicians trained in the conventional technique only. At the 95 percent confidence level, we estimated that between 3.7 percent and 16.1 percent (mean=8.5 percent) of clinicians trained in using the Gow-Gates technique use this injection technique primarily, and between 35.4 percent and 56.3 percent (mean=47.5 percent) of those trained in the Gow-Gates method never use this technique. At the same confidence level, between 0.0 percent and 3.8 percent (mean=0.0 percent) of clinicians trained in using the Akinosi technique use this injection clinical technique primarily, and between 62.2 percent and 81.1 percent (mean=72.3 percent) of those trained in the Akinosi method never use this technique. No control group that was completely untrained in the Gow-Gates or Akinosi techniques was available for comparison. However, we presume that zero percent of clinicians who have not been trained in a given technique will use the technique in clinical practice. The confidence interval for the Gow-Gates method excludes this value, while the confidence interval for the Akinosi technique includes zero percent. We conclude that, in the study population, formal clinical training in the Gow-Gates and Akinosi injection techniques lead to a small but significant increase in current primary utilization of the Gow-Gates technique. No significant increase in current primary utilization of the Akinosi technique was found.

Detection and Sizing of Fatigue Cracks in Steel Welds with Advanced Eddy Current Techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Todorov, E. I.; Mohr, W. C.; Lozev, M. G.

2008-02-01

Butt-welded specimens were fatigued to produce cracks in the weld heat-affected zone. Advanced eddy current (AEC) techniques were used to detect and size the cracks through a coating. AEC results were compared with magnetic particle and phased-array ultrasonic techniques. Validation through destructive crack measurements was also conducted. Factors such as geometry, surface treatment, and crack tightness interfered with depth sizing. AEC inspection techniques have the potential of providing more accurate and complete sizing flaw data for manufacturing and in-service inspections.

Comparative study of reference currents and DC bus voltage control for Three-Phase Four-Wire Four-Leg SAPF to compensate harmonics and reactive power with 3D SVM.

PubMed

Chebabhi, A; Fellah, M K; Kessal, A; Benkhoris, M F

2015-07-01

In this paper the performances of three reference currents and DC bus voltage control techniques for Three-Phase Four-Wire Four-Leg SAPF are compared for balanced and unbalanced load conditions. The main goals are to minimize the harmonics, reduce the magnitude of neutral current, eliminate the zero-sequence current components caused by single-phase nonlinear loads and compensate the reactive power, and on the other hand improve performances such as robustness, stabilization, trajectory pursuit, and reduce time response. The three techniques are analyzed mathematically and simulation results are compared. The techniques considered for comparative study are the PI Control, Sliding Mode Control and the Backstepping Control. Synchronous reference frame theory (SRF) in the dqo-axes is used to generate the reference currents, of the inverter. Copyright © 2015 ISA. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Buried structure for increasing fabrication performance of micromaterial by electromigration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kimura, Yasuhiro; Saka, Masumi

2016-06-01

The electromigration (EM) technique is a physical synthetic growth method for micro/nanomaterials. EM causes atomic diffusion in a metal line by high-density electron flows. The intentional control of accumulation and relaxation of atoms by EM can lead to the fabrication of a micro/nanomaterial. TiN passivation has been utilized as a component of sample in the EM technique. Although TiN passivation can simplify the cumbersome processes for preparing the sample, the leakage of current naturally occurs because of the conductivity of TiN as a side effect and decreases the performance of micro/nanomaterial fabrication. In the present work, we propose a buried structure, which contributes to significantly decreasing the current for fabricating an Al micromaterial by confining the current flow in the EM technique. The fabrication performance was evaluated based on the threshold current for fabricating an Al micromaterial using the buried structure and the previous structure with the leakage of current.

Time transfer techniques: Historical overview, current practices and future capabilities

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Klepczynski, W. J.

1984-01-01

A brief historical review of time transfer techniques used during the last twenty years is presented. Methods currently used are discussed in terms of cost effectiveness as a function of accuracy achievable. Future trends are also discussed in terms of projected timekeeping capabilities.

Magnetic force microscopy method and apparatus to detect and image currents in integrated circuits

DOEpatents

Campbell, Ann. N.; Anderson, Richard E.; Cole, Jr., Edward I.

1995-01-01

A magnetic force microscopy method and improved magnetic tip for detecting and quantifying internal magnetic fields resulting from current of integrated circuits. Detection of the current is used for failure analysis, design verification, and model validation. The interaction of the current on the integrated chip with a magnetic field can be detected using a cantilevered magnetic tip. Enhanced sensitivity for both ac and dc current and voltage detection is achieved with voltage by an ac coupling or a heterodyne technique. The techniques can be used to extract information from analog circuits.

Magnetic force microscopy method and apparatus to detect and image currents in integrated circuits

DOEpatents

Campbell, A.N.; Anderson, R.E.; Cole, E.I. Jr.

1995-11-07

A magnetic force microscopy method and improved magnetic tip for detecting and quantifying internal magnetic fields resulting from current of integrated circuits are disclosed. Detection of the current is used for failure analysis, design verification, and model validation. The interaction of the current on the integrated chip with a magnetic field can be detected using a cantilevered magnetic tip. Enhanced sensitivity for both ac and dc current and voltage detection is achieved with voltage by an ac coupling or a heterodyne technique. The techniques can be used to extract information from analog circuits. 17 figs.

Novel Techniques for Pulsed Field Gradient NMR Measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brey, William Wallace

Pulsed field gradient (PFG) techniques now find application in multiple quantum filtering and diffusion experiments as well as in magnetic resonance imaging and spatially selective spectroscopy. Conventionally, the gradient fields are produced by azimuthal and longitudinal currents on the surfaces of one or two cylinders. Using a series of planar units consisting of azimuthal and radial current elements spaced along the longitudinal axis, we have designed gradient coils having linear regions that extend axially nearly to the ends of the coil and to more than 80% of the inner radius. These designs locate the current return paths on a concentric cylinder, so the coils are called Concentric Return Path (CRP) coils. Coils having extended linear regions can be made smaller for a given sample size. Among the advantages that can accrue from using smaller coils are improved gradient strength and switching time, reduced eddy currents in the absence of shielding, and improved use of bore space. We used an approximation technique to predict the remaining eddy currents and a time-domain model of coil performance to simulate the electrical performance of the CRP coil and several reduced volume coils of more conventional design. One of the conventional coils was designed based on the time-domain performance model. A single-point acquisition technique was developed to measure the remaining eddy currents of the reduced volume coils. Adaptive sampling increases the dynamic range of the measurement. Measuring only the center of the stimulated echo removes chemical shift and B_0 inhomogeneity effects. The technique was also used to design an inverse filter to remove the eddy current effects in a larger coil set. We added pulsed field gradient and imaging capability to a 7 T commercial spectrometer to perform neuroscience and embryology research and used it in preliminary studies of binary liquid mixtures separating near a critical point. These techniques and coil designs will find application in research areas ranging from functional imaging to NMR microscopy.

New developments in satellite oceanography and current measurements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Huang, N. E.

1979-01-01

Principal satellite remote sensing techniques and instruments are described and attention is given to the application of such techniques to ocean current measurement. The use of radiometers, satellite tracking drifters, and altimeters for current measurement is examined. Consideration is also given to other applications of satellite remote sensing in physical oceanography, including measurements of surface wind stress, sea state, tides, ice, sea surface temperature, salinity, ocean color, and oceanic leveling.

Introduction to digital PCR.

PubMed

Bizouarn, Francisco

2014-01-01

Digital PCR (dPCR) is a molecular biology technique going through a renaissance. With the arrival of new instrumentation dPCR can now be performed as a routine molecular biology assay. This exciting new technique provides quantitative and detection capabilities that by far surpass other methods currently used. This chapter is an overview of some of the applications currently being performed using dPCR as well as the fundamental concepts and techniques this technology is based on.

Computer aided fringe pattern analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sciammarella, Cesar A.

The paper reviews the basic laws of fringe pattern interpretation. The different techniques that are currently utilized are presented using a common frame of reference stressing the fact that these techniques are different variations of the same basic principle. Digital and analog techniques are discussed. Currently available hardware is presented and the relationships between hardware and the operations of pattern fringe processing are pointed out. Examples are given to illustrate the ideas discussed in the paper.

Suppression of ambipolar current in tunnel FETs using drain-pocket: Proposal and analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Garg, Shelly; Saurabh, Sneh

2018-01-01

In this paper, we investigate the impact of a drain-pocket (DP) adjacent to the drain region in Tunnel Field-Effect Transistors (TFETs) to effectively suppress the ambipolar current. Using calibrated two-dimensional device simulation, we examine the impact of DP in Double Gate TFET (DGTFET). We demonstrate the superiority of the DP technique over the existing techniques in controlling the ambipolar current. In particular, the addition of DP to a TFET is able to fully suppress the ambipolar current even when TFET is biased at high negative gate voltages and drain doping is kept as high as the source doping. Moreover, adding DP is complementary to the well-known technique of employ-ing source-pocket (SP) in a TFET since both need similar doping type and doping concentration.

Analytical Electrochemistry: Methodology and Applications of Dynamic Techniques.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Heineman, William R.; Kissinger, Peter T.

1980-01-01

Reports developments involving the experimental aspects of finite and current analytical electrochemistry including electrode materials (97 cited references), hydrodynamic techniques (56), spectroelectrochemistry (62), stripping voltammetry (70), voltammetric techniques (27), polarographic techniques (59), and miscellany (12). (CS)

Synergistic surface current mapping by spaceborne stereo imaging and coastal HF radar

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matthews, John Philip; Yoshikawa, Yutaka

2012-09-01

Well validated optical and radar methods of surface current measurement at high spatial resolution (nominally <100 m) from space can greatly advance our ability to monitor earth's oceans, coastal zones, lakes and rivers. With interest growing in optical along-track stereo techniques for surface current and wave motion determinations, questions of how to interpret such data and how to relate them to measurements made by better validated techniques arise. Here we make the first systematic appraisal of surface currents derived from along-track stereo Sun glitter (ATSSG) imagery through comparisons with simultaneous synoptic flows observed by coastal HF radars working at frequencies of 13.9 and 24.5 MHz, which return averaged currents within surface layers of roughly 1 m and 2 m depth respectively. At our Tsushima Strait (Japan) test site, we found that these two techniques provided largely compatible surface current patterns, with the main difference apparent in current strength. Within the northwest (southern) comparison region, the magnitudes of the ATSSG current vectors derived for 13 August 2006 were on average 22% (40%) higher than the corresponding vectors for the 1-m (2-m) depth radar. These results reflect near-surface vertical current structure, differences in the flow components sensed by the two techniques and disparities in instrumental performance. The vertical profile constructed here from ATSSG, HF radar and ADCP data is the first to resolve downwind drift in the upper 2 m of the open ocean. The profile e-folding depth suggests Stokes drift from waves of 10-m wavelength visible in the images.

Photogrammetry and optical methods in structural dynamics - A review

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baqersad, Javad; Poozesh, Peyman; Niezrecki, Christopher; Avitabile, Peter

2017-03-01

In the last few decades, there has been a surge of research in the area of non-contact measurement techniques. Photogrammetry has received considerable attention due to its ability to achieve full-field measurement and its robustness to work in testing environments and on testing articles in which using other measurement techniques may not be practical. More recently, researchers have used this technique to study transient phenomena and to perform measurements on vibrating structures. The current paper reviews the most current trends in the photogrammetry technique (point tracking, digital image correlation, and target-less approaches) and compares the applications of photogrammetry to other measurement techniques used in structural dynamics (e.g. laser Doppler vibrometry and interferometry techniques). The paper does not present the theoretical background of the optical techniques, but instead presents the general principles of each approach and highlights the novel structural dynamic measurement concepts and applications that are enhanced by utilizing optical techniques.

Current role of modern radiotherapy techniques in the management of breast cancer

PubMed Central

Ozyigit, Gokhan; Gultekin, Melis

2014-01-01

Breast cancer is the most common type of malignancy in females. Advances in systemic therapies and radiotherapy (RT) provided long survival rates in breast cancer patients. RT has a major role in the management of breast cancer. During the past 15 years several developments took place in the field of imaging and irradiation techniques, intensity modulated RT, hypofractionation and partial-breast irradiation. Currently, improvements in the RT technology allow us a subsequent decrease in the treatment-related complications such as fibrosis and long-term cardiac toxicity while improving the loco-regional control rates and cosmetic results. Thus, it is crucial that modern radiotherapy techniques should be carried out with maximum care and efficiency. Several randomized trials provided evidence for the feasibility of modern radiotherapy techniques in the management of breast cancer. However, the role of modern radiotherapy techniques in the management of breast cancer will continue to be defined by the mature results of randomized trials. Current review will provide an up-to-date evidence based data on the role of modern radiotherapy techniques in the management of breast cancer. PMID:25114857

Measurement of electromagnetic properties of powder and solid metal materials for additive manufacturing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Todorov, Evgueni Iordanov

2017-04-01

The lack of validated nondestructive evaluation (NDE) techniques for examination during and after additive manufacturing (AM) component fabrication is one of the obstacles in the way of broadening use of AM for critical applications. Knowledge of electromagnetic properties of powder (e.g. feedstock) and solid AM metal components is necessary to evaluate and deploy electromagnetic NDE modalities for examination of AM components. The objective of this research study was to develop and implement techniques for measurement of powder and solid metal electromagnetic properties. Three materials were selected - Inconel 625, duplex stainless steel 2205, and carbon steel 4140. The powder properties were measured with alternate current (AC) model based eddy current technique and direct current (DC) resistivity measurements. The solid metal properties were measured with DC resistivity measurements, DC magnetic techniques, and AC model based eddy current technique. Initial magnetic permeability and electrical conductivity were acquired for both powder and solid metal. Additional magnetic properties such as maximum permeability, coercivity, retentivity, and others were acquired for 2205 and 4140. Two groups of specimens were tested along the build length and width respectively to investigate for possible anisotropy. There was no significant difference or anisotropy when comparing measurements acquired along build length to those along the width. A trend in AC measurements might be associated with build geometry. Powder electrical conductivity was very low and difficult to estimate reliably with techniques used in the study. The agreement between various techniques was very good where adequate comparison was possible.

Ring Current Pressure Estimation withRAM-SCB using Data Assimilation and VanAllen Probe Flux Data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Godinez, H. C.; Yu, Y.; Henderson, M. G.; Larsen, B.; Jordanova, V.

2015-12-01

Capturing and subsequently modeling the influence of tail plasma injections on the inner magnetosphere is particularly important for understanding the formation and evolution of Earth's ring current. In this study, the ring current distribution is estimated with the Ring Current-Atmosphere Interactions Model with Self-Consistent Magnetic field (RAM-SCB) using, for the first time, data assimilation techniques and particle flux data from the Van Allen Probes. The state of the ring current within the RAM-SCB is corrected via an ensemble based data assimilation technique by using proton flux from one of the Van Allen Probes, to capture the enhancement of ring current following an isolated substorm event on July 18 2013. The results show significant improvement in the estimation of the ring current particle distributions in the RAM-SCB model, leading to better agreement with observations. This newly implemented data assimilation technique in the global modeling of the ring current thus provides a promising tool to better characterize the effect of substorm injections in the near-Earth regions. The work is part of the Space Hazards Induced near Earth by Large, Dynamic Storms (SHIELDS) project in Los Alamos National Laboratory.

Current concepts in cleft care: A multicenter analysis.

PubMed

Thiele, Oliver C; Kreppel, Matthias; Dunsche, Anton; Eckardt, Andre M; Ehrenfeld, Michael; Fleiner, Bernd; Gaßling, Volker; Gehrke, Gerd; Gerressen, Marcus; Gosau, Martin; Gröbe, Alexander; Haßfeld, Stefan; Heiland, Max; Hoffmeister, Bodo; Hölzle, Frank; Klein, Cornelius; Krüger, Maximilian; Kübler, Alexander C; Kübler, Norbert R; Kuttenberger, Johannes J; Landes, Constantin; Lauer, Günter; Martini, Markus; Merholz, Erich T; Mischkowski, Robert A; Al-Nawas, Bilal; Nkenke, Emeka; Piesold, Jörn U; Pradel, Winnie; Rasse, Michael; Rachwalski, Martin; Reich, Rudolf H; Rothamel, Daniel; Rustemeyer, Jan; Scheer, Martin; Schliephake, Henning; Schmelzeisen, Rainer; Schramm, Alexander; Schupp, Wiebke; Spitzer, Wolfgang J; Stocker, Erwin; Stoll, Christian; Terheyden, Hendrik; Voigt, Alexander; Wagner, Wilfried; Weingart, Dieter; Werkmeister, Richard; Wiltfang, Jörg; Ziegler, Christoph M; Zöller, Joachim E

2018-04-01

The current surgical techniques used in cleft repair are well established, but different centers use different approaches. To determine the best treatment for patients, a multi-center comparative study is required. In this study, we surveyed all craniofacial departments registered with the German Society of Maxillofacial Surgery to determine which cleft repair techniques are currently in use. Our findings revealed much variation in cleft repair between different centers. Although most centers did use a two-stage approach, the operative techniques and timing of lip and palate closure were different in every center. This shows that a retrospective comparative analysis of patient outcome between the participating centers is not possible and illustrates the need for prospective comparative studies to establish the optimal technique for reconstructive cleft surgery. Copyright © 2018 European Association for Cranio-Maxillo-Facial Surgery. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Production and manipulation of bovine embryos: techniques and terminology.

PubMed

Machaty, Z; Peippo, J; Peter, A

2012-09-15

There are numerous publications regarding bovine embryos, ranging from descriptions of their appearance and development to emerging techniques in the field of assisted reproductive technology. Concurrently, several specialized terms have been developed to describe the bovine embryo. The purpose of the current review is two-fold; it is primarily to describe techniques involved in the in vivo and in vitro production of bovine embryos and their manipulation, and secondarily to summarize specialized terms used in these processes. The intention is not to review these techniques in detail, but instead to provide salient points and current knowledge regarding these techniques, with a focus on terminology. The first review dealt with classical and contemporary terminology used to describe morphologic aspects of ovarian dynamics in cattle. Subsequently, the terms and current understanding of processes involved in preattachment bovine embryos were described in the second review. As the third article in a series, this mini-review is focused on defining the production, manipulation, and transfer of bovine preattachment embryos. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Ride quality research techniques: Section on general techniques

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1977-01-01

Information is gathered about the methods currently used for the study of ride quality in a variety of transportation modes by a variety of research organizations, including universities, Federal agencies, contracting firms, and private industries. Detailed descriptions of these techniques and their strengths and weaknesses, and identifying the organizations using such methods are presented. The specific efforts of the Group's participants, as well as a variety of feasible approaches not currently in use, are presented as methodological alternatives under the three basic factors which must be considered in ride quality studies: research techniques, research environments, and choice of subjects.

Inexpensive Eddy-Current Standard

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Berry, Robert F., Jr.

1985-01-01

Radial crack replicas serve as evaluation standards. Technique entails intimately joining two pieces of appropriate aluminum alloy stock and centering drilled hole through and along interface. Bore surface of hole presents two vertical stock interface lines 180 degrees apart. These lines serve as radial crack defect replicas during eddy-current technique setup and verification.

Detection of rip current using camera monitoring techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, T.

2016-02-01

Rip currents are approximately shore normal seaward flows which are strong, localized and rather narrow. They are known that stacked water by longshore currents suddenly flow back out to sea as rip currents. They are transient phenomena and their generation time and location are unpredictable. They are also doing significant roles for offshore sediment transport and beach erosion. Rip currents can be very hazardous to swimmers or floaters because of their strong seaward flows and sudden depth changes by narrow and strong flows. Because of its importance in terms of safety, shoreline evolution and pollutant transport, a number of studies have been attempted to find out their mechanisms. However, understanding of rip currents is still not enough to make warning to people in the water by predicting their location and time. This paper investigates the development of rip currents using camera images. Since rip currents are developed by longshore currents, the observed longshore current variations in space and time can be used to detect rip current generation. Most of the time convergence of two longshore currents in the opposite direction is the outbreak of rip current. In order to observe longshore currents, an optical current meter(OCM) technique proposed by Chickadel et al.(2003) is used. The relationship between rip current generation time and longshore current velocity variation observed by OCM is analyzed from the images taken on the shore. The direct measurement of rip current velocity is also tested using image analysis techniques. Quantitative estimation of rip current strength is also conducted by using average and variance image of rip current area. These efforts will contribute to reduce the hazards of swimmers by prediction and warning of rip current generation.

Unstructured mesh generation and adaptivity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mavriplis, D. J.

1995-01-01

An overview of current unstructured mesh generation and adaptivity techniques is given. Basic building blocks taken from the field of computational geometry are first described. Various practical mesh generation techniques based on these algorithms are then constructed and illustrated with examples. Issues of adaptive meshing and stretched mesh generation for anisotropic problems are treated in subsequent sections. The presentation is organized in an education manner, for readers familiar with computational fluid dynamics, wishing to learn more about current unstructured mesh techniques.

Hysteroscopic Sterilization: History and Current Methods

PubMed Central

Greenberg, James A

2008-01-01

For many practicing obstetrician-gynecologists, tubal ligation was the gold standard by which female sterilization techniques were measured. Yet gynecologic surgeons have simultaneously sought to occlude the fallopian tubes transcervically to avoid discomfort and complications associated with transabdominal approaches. In this review, the history of transcervical sterilization is discussed. Past, current, and upcoming techniques are reviewed. This article focuses on interval sterilization techniques, thus removing post-vaginal and post-cesarean delivery tubal ligations from the discussion. PMID:19015762

Comparing Parameter Estimation Techniques for an Electrical Power Transformer Oil Temperature Prediction Model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Morris, A. Terry

1999-01-01

This paper examines various sources of error in MIT's improved top oil temperature rise over ambient temperature model and estimation process. The sources of error are the current parameter estimation technique, quantization noise, and post-processing of the transformer data. Results from this paper will show that an output error parameter estimation technique should be selected to replace the current least squares estimation technique. The output error technique obtained accurate predictions of transformer behavior, revealed the best error covariance, obtained consistent parameter estimates, and provided for valid and sensible parameters. This paper will also show that the output error technique should be used to minimize errors attributed to post-processing (decimation) of the transformer data. Models used in this paper are validated using data from a large transformer in service.

Giant Magnetoresistance Sensors: A Review on Structures and Non-Destructive Eddy Current Testing Applications

PubMed Central

Rifai, Damhuji; Abdalla, Ahmed N.; Ali, Kharudin; Razali, Ramdan

2016-01-01

Non-destructive eddy current testing (ECT) is widely used to examine structural defects in ferromagnetic pipe in the oil and gas industry. Implementation of giant magnetoresistance (GMR) sensors as magnetic field sensors to detect the changes of magnetic field continuity have increased the sensitivity of eddy current techniques in detecting the material defect profile. However, not many researchers have described in detail the structure and issues of GMR sensors and their application in eddy current techniques for nondestructive testing. This paper will describe the implementation of GMR sensors in non-destructive testing eddy current testing. The first part of this paper will describe the structure and principles of GMR sensors. The second part outlines the principles and types of eddy current testing probe that have been studied and developed by previous researchers. The influence of various parameters on the GMR measurement and a factor affecting in eddy current testing will be described in detail in the third part of this paper. Finally, this paper will discuss the limitations of coil probe and compensation techniques that researchers have applied in eddy current testing probes. A comprehensive review of previous studies on the application of GMR sensors in non-destructive eddy current testing also be given at the end of this paper. PMID:26927123

Giant Magnetoresistance Sensors: A Review on Structures and Non-Destructive Eddy Current Testing Applications.

PubMed

Rifai, Damhuji; Abdalla, Ahmed N; Ali, Kharudin; Razali, Ramdan

2016-02-26

Non-destructive eddy current testing (ECT) is widely used to examine structural defects in ferromagnetic pipe in the oil and gas industry. Implementation of giant magnetoresistance (GMR) sensors as magnetic field sensors to detect the changes of magnetic field continuity have increased the sensitivity of eddy current techniques in detecting the material defect profile. However, not many researchers have described in detail the structure and issues of GMR sensors and their application in eddy current techniques for nondestructive testing. This paper will describe the implementation of GMR sensors in non-destructive testing eddy current testing. The first part of this paper will describe the structure and principles of GMR sensors. The second part outlines the principles and types of eddy current testing probe that have been studied and developed by previous researchers. The influence of various parameters on the GMR measurement and a factor affecting in eddy current testing will be described in detail in the third part of this paper. Finally, this paper will discuss the limitations of coil probe and compensation techniques that researchers have applied in eddy current testing probes. A comprehensive review of previous studies on the application of GMR sensors in non-destructive eddy current testing also be given at the end of this paper.

Uncertainties in cylindrical anode current inferences on pulsed power drivers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Porwitzky, Andrew; Brown, Justin

2018-06-01

For over a decade, velocimetry based techniques have been used to infer the electrical current delivered to dynamic materials properties experiments on pulsed power drivers such as the Z Machine. Though originally developed for planar load geometries, in recent years, inferring the current delivered to cylindrical coaxial loads has become a valuable diagnostic tool for numerous platforms. Presented is a summary of uncertainties that can propagate through the current inference technique when applied to expanding cylindrical anodes. An equation representing quantitative uncertainty is developed which shows the unfold method to be accurate to a few percent above 10 MA of load current.

Pediatric oncologic endosurgery.

PubMed

Boo, Yoon Jung; Goedecke, Jan; Muensterer, Oliver J

2017-08-01

Despite increasing popularity of minimal-invasive techniques in the pediatric population, their use in diagnosis and management of pediatric malignancy is still debated. Moreover, there is limited evidence to clarify this controversy due to low incidence of each individual type of pediatric tumor, huge diversity of the disease entity, heterogeneity of surgical technique, and lack of well-designed studies on pediatric oncologic minimal-invasive surgery. However, a rapid development of medical instruments and technologies accelerated the current trend toward less invasive surgery, including oncologic endosurgery. The aim of this article is to review current literatures about the application of the minimal-invasive approach for pediatric tumors and to give an overview of the current status, indications, individual techniques, and future perspectives.

Effects of micro electric current load during cooling of plant tissues on intracellular ice crystal formation behavior and pH.

PubMed

Ninagawa, Takako; Kawamura, Yukio; Konishi, Tadashi; Narumi, Akira

2016-08-01

Cryopreservation techniques are expected to evolve further to preserve biomaterials and foods in a fresh state for extended periods of time. Long-term cryopreservation of living materials such as food and biological tissue is generally achieved by freezing; thus, intracellular freezing occurs. Intracellular freezing injures the cells and leads to cell death. Therefore, a dream cryopreservation technique would preserve the living materials without internal ice crystal formation at a temperature low enough to prevent bacterial activity. This study was performed to investigate the effect of micro electrical current loading during cooling as a new cryopreservation technique. The behavior of intracellular ice crystal formation in plant tissues with or without an electric current load was evaluated using the degree of supercooling, degree of cell deformation, and grain size and growing rate of intracellular ice crystal. Moreover, the transition of intracellular pH during plant tissue cooling with or without electric current loading was also examined using the fluorescence intensity ratio to comprehend cell activity at lower temperatures. The results indicated that micro electric current load did not only decrease the degree of cell deformation and grain size of intracellular ice crystal but also reduced the decline in intracellular pH due to temperature lowering, compared with tissues subjected to the same cooling rate without an electric current load. Thus, the effect of electric current load on cryopreservation and the potential of a new cryopreservation technique using electric current load were discussed based on these results. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Current techniques in rice mill effluent treatment: Emerging opportunities for waste reuse and waste-to-energy conversion.

PubMed

Kumar, Anuj; Priyadarshinee, Rashmi; Roy, Abhishek; Dasgupta, Dalia; Mandal, Tamal

2016-12-01

Rice mills release huge volumes of wastewater and other by-products when processing paddy rice. The wastewater often contains toxic inorganic and organic contaminants which cause environmental damage when released. Accordingly, cost-effective techniques for removing contaminants are needed. This article reviews current processes for curbing pollution and also reusing and recycling waste products. Novel techniques exist for converting waste products into energy and value-added products. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Radar Remote Sensing of Waves and Currents in the Nearshore Zone

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-01-01

and application of novel microwave, acoustic, and optical remote sensing techniques. The objectives of this effort are to determine the extent to which...Doppler radar techniques are useful for nearshore remote sensing applications. Of particular interest are estimates of surf zone location and extent...surface currents, waves, and bathymetry. To date, optical (video) techniques have been the primary remote sensing technology used for these applications. A key advantage of the radar is its all weather day-night operability.

Techniques for the measurement of disruption halo currents in the National Spherical Torus Experiment.

PubMed

Gerhardt, S P; Fredrickson, E; Guttadora, L; Kaita, R; Kugel, H; Menard, J; Takahashi, H

2011-10-01

This paper describes techniques for measuring halo currents, and their associated toroidal peaking, in the National Spherical Torus Experiments [M. Ono et al., Nucl. Fusion 40, 557 (2000)]. The measurements are based on three techniques: (1) measurement of the toroidal field created by the poloidal halo current, either with segmented Rogowski coils or discrete toroidal field sensors, (2) the direct measurement of halo currents into specially instrument tiles, and (3) small Rogowski coils placed on the mechanical supports of in-vessel components. For the segmented Rogowski coils and discrete toroidal field detectors, it is shown that the toroidal peaking factor inferred from the data is significantly less than the peaking factor of the underlying halo current distribution, and a simple model is developed to relate the two. For the array of discrete toroidal field detectors and small Rogowski sensors, the compensation steps that are used to isolate the halo current signal are described. The electrical and mechanical design of compact under-tile resistive shunts and mini-Rogowski coils is described. Example data from the various systems are shown.

Techniques for the measurement of disruption halo currents in the National Spherical Torus Experiment

DOE PAGES

Gerhardt, S. P.; Fredrickson, E.; Guttadora, L.; ...

2011-10-06

This paper describes techniques for measuring halo currents, and their associated toroidal peaking, in the National Spherical Torus Experiments. The measurements are based on three techniques: (i) measurement of the toroidal field created by the poloidal halo current, either with segmented Rogowski coils or discrete toroidal field sensors, (ii) the direct measurement of halo currents into specially instrument tiles, and (iii) small Rogowski coils placed on the mechanical supports of in-vessel components. For the segmented Rogowski coils and discrete toroidal field detectors, it is shown that the toroidal peaking factor inferred from the data is significantly less than the peakingmore » factor of the underlying halo current distribution, and a simple model is developed to relate the two. For the array of discrete toroidal field detectors and small Rogowski sensors, the compensation steps that are used to isolate the halo current signal are described. The electrical and mechanical design of compact under-tile resistive shunts and mini-Rogowski coils is described. Example data from the various systems is shown.« less

On the estimation of the current density in space plasmas: Multi- versus single-point techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Perri, Silvia; Valentini, Francesco; Sorriso-Valvo, Luca; Reda, Antonio; Malara, Francesco

2017-06-01

Thanks to multi-spacecraft mission, it has recently been possible to directly estimate the current density in space plasmas, by using magnetic field time series from four satellites flying in a quasi perfect tetrahedron configuration. The technique developed, commonly called ;curlometer; permits a good estimation of the current density when the magnetic field time series vary linearly in space. This approximation is generally valid for small spacecraft separation. The recent space missions Cluster and Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) have provided high resolution measurements with inter-spacecraft separation up to 100 km and 10 km, respectively. The former scale corresponds to the proton gyroradius/ion skin depth in ;typical; solar wind conditions, while the latter to sub-proton scale. However, some works have highlighted an underestimation of the current density via the curlometer technique with respect to the current computed directly from the velocity distribution functions, measured at sub-proton scales resolution with MMS. In this paper we explore the limit of the curlometer technique studying synthetic data sets associated to a cluster of four artificial satellites allowed to fly in a static turbulent field, spanning a wide range of relative separation. This study tries to address the relative importance of measuring plasma moments at very high resolution from a single spacecraft with respect to the multi-spacecraft missions in the current density evaluation.

A Hybrid Semi-Digital Transimpedance Amplifier With Noise Cancellation Technique for Nanopore-Based DNA Sequencing.

PubMed

Hsu, Chung-Lun; Jiang, Haowei; Venkatesh, A G; Hall, Drew A

2015-10-01

Over the past two decades, nanopores have been a promising technology for next generation deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) sequencing. Here, we present a hybrid semi-digital transimpedance amplifier (HSD-TIA) to sense the minute current signatures introduced by single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) translocating through a nanopore, while discharging the baseline current using a semi-digital feedback loop. The amplifier achieves fast settling by adaptively tuning a DC compensation current when a step input is detected. A noise cancellation technique reduces the total input-referred current noise caused by the parasitic input capacitance. Measurement results show the performance of the amplifier with 31.6 M Ω mid-band gain, 950 kHz bandwidth, and 8.5 fA/ √Hz input-referred current noise, a 2× noise reduction due to the noise cancellation technique. The settling response is demonstrated by observing the insertion of a protein nanopore in a lipid bilayer. Using the nanopore, the HSD-TIA was able to measure ssDNA translocation events.

An Automatic Phase-Change Detection Technique for Colloidal Hard Sphere Suspensions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McDowell, Mark; Gray, Elizabeth; Rogers, Richard B.

2005-01-01

Colloidal suspensions of monodisperse spheres are used as physical models of thermodynamic phase transitions and as precursors to photonic band gap materials. However, current image analysis techniques are not able to distinguish between densely packed phases within conventional microscope images, which are mainly characterized by degrees of randomness or order with similar grayscale value properties. Current techniques for identifying the phase boundaries involve manually identifying the phase transitions, which is very tedious and time consuming. We have developed an intelligent machine vision technique that automatically identifies colloidal phase boundaries. The algorithm utilizes intelligent image processing techniques that accurately identify and track phase changes vertically or horizontally for a sequence of colloidal hard sphere suspension images. This technique is readily adaptable to any imaging application where regions of interest are distinguished from the background by differing patterns of motion over time.

Task 1.6 -- Mixed waste treatment. Semi-annual report, January 1--June 30, 1995

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

Rindt, J.R.

1997-08-01

Mixed-waste sites make up the majority of contaminated sites, yet remediation techniques used at such sites often target only the most prevalent contaminant. A better understanding of site situation (i.e., most common types of contamination), current remediation techniques, and combinations of techniques would provide insight into areas in which further research should be performed. The first half of this task program year consisted of a survey of common types of mixed-wastes sites and a detailed literature search of the remediation techniques and combinations of techniques that were currently available. From this information, an assessment of each of the techniques wasmore » made and combined into various ways appropriate to mixed-waste protocol. This activity provided insight into areas in which further research should be performed.« less

Effectiveness of Shield Termination Techniques Tested with TEM Cell and Bulk Current Injection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bradley, Arthur T.; Hare, Richard J.

2009-01-01

This paper presents experimental results of the effectiveness of various shield termination techniques. Each termination technique is evaluated by two independent noise injection methods; transverse electromagnetic (TEM) cell operated from 3 MHz 400 MHz, and bulk current injection (BCI) operated from 50 kHz 400 MHz. Both single carrier and broadband injection tests were investigated. Recommendations as to how to achieve the best shield transfer impedance (i.e. reduced coupled noise) are made based on the empirical data. Finally, the noise injection techniques themselves are indirectly evaluated by comparing the results obtained from the TEM Cell to those from BCI.

Investigation of the effects of external current systems on the MAGSAT data utilizing grid cell modeling techniques

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Klumpar, D. M. (Principal Investigator)

1982-01-01

Efforts in support of the development of a model of the magnetic fields due to ionospheric and magnetospheric electrical currents are discussed. Specifically, progress made in reading MAGSAT tapes and plotting the deviation of the measured magnetic field components with respect to a spherical harmonic model of the main geomagnetic field is reported. Initial tests of the modeling procedure developed to compute the ionosphere/magnetosphere-induced fields at satellite orbit are also described. The modeling technique utilizes a liner current element representation of the large scale current system.

Use of eddy current mixes to solve a weld examination application

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

Ward, R.C.; LaBoissonniere, A.

1995-12-31

The augmentation of typical nondestructive (i.e., ultrasound) weld inspection techniques by the use of eddy current tools may significantly enhance the quality and reliability of weld inspections. One recent example is the development of an eddy current technique for use in the examination of BWR core shroud welds, where multi-frequency mixes are used to eliminate signals coming from the weld material so that the examination of the heat affected zone is enhanced. An analysis tool most commonly associated with ultrasound examinations, the C-Scan based on gated information, may be implemented with eddy current data to enhance analysis.

Cost/benefit trade-offs for reducing the energy consumption of commercial air transportation (RECAT)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gobetz, F. W.; Dubin, A. P.

1976-01-01

A study has been performed to evaluate the opportunities for reducing the energy requirements of the U.S. domestic air passenger transport system through improved operational techniques, modified in-service aircraft, derivatives of current production models, or new aircraft using either current or advanced technology. Each of the fuel-conserving alternatives has been investigated individually to test its potential for fuel conservation relative to a hypothetical baseline case in which current, in-production aircraft types are assumed to operate, without modification and with current operational techniques, into the future out to the year 2000.

Geothermal Reservoir Well Stimulation Program: technology transfer

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

Not Available

1980-05-01

Each of the following types of well stimulation techniques are summarized and explained: hydraulic fracturing; thermal; mechanical, jetting, and drainhole drilling; explosive and implosive; and injection methods. Current stimulation techniques, stimulation techniques for geothermal wells, areas of needed investigation, and engineering calculations for various techniques. (MHR)

Simulation verification techniques study: Simulation self test hardware design and techniques report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1974-01-01

The final results are presented of the hardware verification task. The basic objectives of the various subtasks are reviewed along with the ground rules under which the overall task was conducted and which impacted the approach taken in deriving techniques for hardware self test. The results of the first subtask and the definition of simulation hardware are presented. The hardware definition is based primarily on a brief review of the simulator configurations anticipated for the shuttle training program. The results of the survey of current self test techniques are presented. The data sources that were considered in the search for current techniques are reviewed, and results of the survey are presented in terms of the specific types of tests that are of interest for training simulator applications. Specifically, these types of tests are readiness tests, fault isolation tests and incipient fault detection techniques. The most applicable techniques were structured into software flows that are then referenced in discussions of techniques for specific subsystems.

Considering the influence of stimulation parameters on the effect of conventional and high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation.

PubMed

To, Wing Ting; Hart, John; De Ridder, Dirk; Vanneste, Sven

2016-01-01

Recently, techniques to non-invasively modulate specific brain areas gained popularity in the form of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation. These non-invasive techniques have already shown promising outcomes in various studies with healthy subjects as well as patient populations. Despite widespread dissemination of tDCS, there remain significant unknowns about the influence of a diverse number of tDCS parameters (e.g. polarity, size, position of electrodes & duration of stimulation) in inducing neurophysiological and behavioral effects. This article explores both techniques starting with the history of tDCS, to the differences between conventional tDCS and high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation, the underlying physiological mechanism, the (in)direct effects, the applications of tDCS with varying parameters, the efficacy, the safety issues and the opportunities for future research.

A Review of Developments in Computer-Based Systems to Image Teeth and Produce Dental Restorations

PubMed Central

Rekow, E. Dianne; Erdman, Arthur G.; Speidel, T. Michael

1987-01-01

Computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) make it possible to automate the creation of dental restorations. Currently practiced techniques are described. Three automated systems currently under development are described and compared. Advances in computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) provide a new option for dentistry, creating an alternative technique for producing dental restorations. It is possible to create dental restorations that are automatically produced and meet or exceed current requirements for fit and occlusion.

Parallel, staged opening switch power conditioning techniques for flux compression generator applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reinovsky, R. E.; Levi, P. S.; Bueck, J. C.; Goforth, J. H.

The Air Force Weapons Laboratory, working jointly with Los Alamos National Laboratory, has conducted a series of experiments directed at exploring composite, or staged, switching techniques for use in opening switches in applications which require the conduction of very high currents (or current densities) with very low losses for relatively long times (several tens of microseconds), and the interruption of these currents in much shorter times (ultimately a few hundred nanoseconds). The results of those experiments are reported.

Genomic tools and and prospects for new breeding techniques in flower bulb crops

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

For many of the new breeding techniques, sequence information is of the utmost importance. In addition to current breeding techniques, such as marker-assisted selection (MAS) and genetic modification (GM), new breeding techniques such as zinc finger nucleases, oligonucleotide-mediated mutagenesis, R...

Detection of cracks beneath rivet heads via pulsed eddy current technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Giguère, J. S. R.; Lepine, B. A.; Dubois, J. M. S.

2002-05-01

Improving the detectability of fatigue cracks under installed fasteners is one of the many goals of the aging aircraft nondestructive evaluation (NDE) community. The pulsed eddy current offers new capabilities to address this requirement. The aim of the paper is to evaluate the potential of this technique for detecting and quantifying notches under installed fasteners.

Nuclear Technology. Course 32: Nondestructive Examination (NDE) Techniques II. Module 32-5, Fundamentals of Eddy Current Testing.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Espy, John

This fifth in a series of six modules for a course titled Nondestructive Examination (NDE) Techniques II describes the fundamental concepts applicable to eddy current testing in general. The module follows a typical format that includes the following sections: (1) introduction, (2) module prerequisites, (3) objectives, (4) notes to…

(abstract) Two-Dimensional Surface Current in the Coastal Environment Using Vector Along-Track Interferometry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rodriguez, Ernesto; Imel, David; Houshmand, Bijan; Carande, Richard

1994-01-01

The structure of surface currents in the coastal environment can be very complex as it is governed by a multitude of factors such as local bathymetry, sea state, etc. Knowledge of the structure of coastal currents is a key requirement in the ability to carry out safe maneuvers and landings in an unknown coastal situation. Furthermore, it is desirable to have the ability to obtain such information by remote sensing and in a timely manner. We present a remote sensing technique which has the potential to meet certain specific requisites. We will present a theoretical discussion of the measurement technique, then will demonstrate the technique using data previously acquired and compare the results against conventional along-track interferometric measurements.

Nondestructive examination of decarburised layer of steels using eddy current and magnetic Barkhausen noise testing techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Falahat, S.; Ghanei, S.; Kashefi, M.

2018-04-01

Eddy current and Barkhausen noise nondestructive testing techniques were considered to evaluate the magnetic properties of the decarburised steels as a function of microstructure. To make changes in decarburising depth, carbon steel samples were austenitised at 890 °C for 120-270 min. Considering different decarburised depths, height, position and width of the noise profiles were extracted in order to analyse the magnetic Barkhausen noise measurements. Next, the eddy current test was performed to detect the changes in the microstructure through decarburising of the steel taking into account the impedance variations. According to the results, both techniques allow us to detect changes in the magnetic properties of the decarburised steels and link them with their microstructural changes, nondestructively.

The technique of entropy optimization in motor current signature analysis and its application in the fault diagnosis of gear transmission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Xiaoguang; Liang, Lin; Liu, Fei; Xu, Guanghua; Luo, Ailing; Zhang, Sicong

2012-05-01

Nowadays, Motor Current Signature Analysis (MCSA) is widely used in the fault diagnosis and condition monitoring of machine tools. However, although the current signal has lower SNR (Signal Noise Ratio), it is difficult to identify the feature frequencies of machine tools from complex current spectrum that the feature frequencies are often dense and overlapping by traditional signal processing method such as FFT transformation. With the study in the Motor Current Signature Analysis (MCSA), it is found that the entropy is of importance for frequency identification, which is associated with the probability distribution of any random variable. Therefore, it plays an important role in the signal processing. In order to solve the problem that the feature frequencies are difficult to be identified, an entropy optimization technique based on motor current signal is presented in this paper for extracting the typical feature frequencies of machine tools which can effectively suppress the disturbances. Some simulated current signals were made by MATLAB, and a current signal was obtained from a complex gearbox of an iron works made in Luxembourg. In diagnosis the MCSA is combined with entropy optimization. Both simulated and experimental results show that this technique is efficient, accurate and reliable enough to extract the feature frequencies of current signal, which provides a new strategy for the fault diagnosis and the condition monitoring of machine tools.

Evidence of Spin-Injection-Induced Cooper Pair Breaking in Perovskite Ferromagnet-Insulator-Superconductor Heterostructures via Pulsed Current Measurements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yeh, N. C.; Samoilov, A. V.; Veasquez, R. P.; Li, Y.

1998-01-01

The effect of spin-polarized currents on the critical current densities of cuprate superconductors is investigated in perovskite ferromagnet-insulator-superconductor heterostructures with a pulsed current technique.

Insulation Resistance and Leakage Currents in Low-Voltage Ceramic Capacitors with Cracks

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Teverovsky, Alexander A.

2014-01-01

Measurement of insulation resistance (IR) in multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs) is considered a screening technique that ensures the dielectric is defect-free. This work analyzes the effectiveness of this technique for revealing cracks in ceramic capacitors. It is shown that absorption currents prevail over the intrinsic leakage currents during standard IR measurements at room temperature. Absorption currents, and consequently IR, have a weak temperature dependence, increase linearly with voltage (before saturation), and are not sensitive to the presence of mechanical defects. In contrary, intrinsic leakage currents increase super-linearly with voltage and exponentially with temperature (activation energy is in the range from 0.6 eV to 1.1 eV). Leakage currents associated with the presence of cracks have a weaker dependence on temperature and voltage compared to the intrinsic leakage currents. For this reason, intrinsic leakage currents prevail at high temperatures and voltages, thus masking the presence of defects.

Insulation Resistance and Leakage Currents in Low-Voltage Ceramic Capacitors with Cracks

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Teverovsky, Alexander A.

2016-01-01

Measurement of insulation resistance (IR) in multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs) is considered a screening technique that ensures the dielectric is defect-free. This work analyzes the effectiveness of this technique for revealing cracks in ceramic capacitors. It is shown that absorption currents prevail over the intrinsic leakage currents during standard IR measurements at room temperature. Absorption currents, and consequently IR, have a weak temperature dependence, increase linearly with voltage (before saturation), and are not sensitive to the presence of mechanical defects. In contrary, intrinsic leakage currents increase super-linearly with voltage and exponentially with temperature (activation energy is in the range from 0.6 eV to 1.1 eV). Leakage currents associated with the presence of cracks have a weaker dependence on temperature and voltage compared to the intrinsic leakage currents. For this reason, intrinsic leakage currents prevail at high temperatures and voltages, thus masking the presence of defects.

A comparison of force sensing techniques for planetary manipulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Helmick, Daniel; Okon, Avi; DiCicco, Matt

2006-01-01

Five techniques for sensing forces with a manipulator are compared analytically and experimentally. The techniques compared are: a six-axis wrist force/torque sensor, joint torque sensors, link strain gauges, motor current sensors, and flexibility modeling. The accuracy and repeatability fo each technique is quantified and compared.

How reliably can a material be classified as a nanomaterial? Available particle-sizing techniques at work

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Babick, Frank; Mielke, Johannes; Wohlleben, Wendel; Weigel, Stefan; Hodoroaba, Vasile-Dan

2016-06-01

Currently established and projected regulatory frameworks require the classification of materials (whether nano or non-nano) as specified by respective definitions, most of which are based on the size of the constituent particles. This brings up the question if currently available techniques for particle size determination are capable of reliably classifying materials that potentially fall under these definitions. In this study, a wide variety of characterisation techniques, including counting, fractionating, and spectroscopic techniques, has been applied to the same set of materials under harmonised conditions. The selected materials comprised well-defined quality control materials (spherical, monodisperse) as well as industrial materials of complex shapes and considerable polydispersity. As a result, each technique could be evaluated with respect to the determination of the number-weighted median size. Recommendations on the most appropriate and efficient use of techniques for different types of material are given.

An examination of techniques for reformatting digital cartographic data. Part 2: the vector-to raster process.

USGS Publications Warehouse

Peuquet, D.J.

1981-01-01

Current graphic devices suitable for high-speed computer input and output of cartographic data are tending more and more to be raster-oriented, such as the rotating drum scanner and the color raster display. However, the majority of commonly used manipulative techniques in computer-assisted cartography and automated spatial data handling continue to require that the data be in vector format. The current article is the second part of a two-part paper that examines the state of the art in these conversion techniques. - from Author

Using Machine Learning Techniques in the Analysis of Oceanographic Data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Falcinelli, K. E.; Abuomar, S.

2017-12-01

Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers (ADCPs) are oceanographic tools capable of collecting large amounts of current profile data. Using unsupervised machine learning techniques such as principal component analysis, fuzzy c-means clustering, and self-organizing maps, patterns and trends in an ADCP dataset are found. Cluster validity algorithms such as visual assessment of cluster tendency and clustering index are used to determine the optimal number of clusters in the ADCP dataset. These techniques prove to be useful in analysis of ADCP data and demonstrate potential for future use in other oceanographic applications.

Testing and characterizations of infrared sensor over the temperature range of 2 Kelvin to 300 Kelvin

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hansen, R. G.

1983-01-01

Various cryogenic techniques were used to evaluate state of the art electro-optic devices. As research, development, and production demands require more sensitive testing techniques, faster test results, and higher production throughput, the emphasis on supporting cryogenic systems increases. The three traditional methods currently utilized in electro-optic device testing are discussed: (1) liquid contaiment dewars; (2) liquid transfer systems; and (3) closed cycle refrigeration systems. Advantages, disadvantages, and the current state of the art of each of these cryogenic techniques is discussed.

Bulk Current Injection Testing of Cable Noise Reduction Techniques, 50 kHz to 400 MHz

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bradley, Arthur T.; Hare, Richard J.; Singh, Manisha

2009-01-01

This paper presents empirical results of cable noise reduction techniques as demonstrated using bulk current injection (BCI) techniques with radiated fields from 50 kHz - 400 MHz. It is a follow up to the two-part paper series presented at the Asia Pacific EMC Conference that focused on TEM cell signal injection. This paper discusses the effects of cable types, shield connections, and chassis connections on cable noise. For each topic, well established theories are compared with data from a real-world physical system.

Advances in Meniscal Tissue Engineering

PubMed Central

Longo, Umile Giuseppe; Loppini, Mattia; Forriol, Francisco; Romeo, Giovanni; Maffulli, Nicola; Denaro, Vincenzo

2012-01-01

Meniscal tears are the most common knee injuries and have a poor ability of healing. In the last few decades, several techniques have been increasingly used to optimize meniscal healing. Current research efforts of tissue engineering try to combine cell-based therapy, growth factors, gene therapy, and reabsorbable scaffolds to promote healing of meniscal defects. Preliminary studies did not allow to draw definitive conclusions on the use of these techniques for routine management of meniscal lesions. We performed a review of the available literature on current techniques of tissue engineering for the management of meniscal tears. PMID:25098366

Somatic Treatments for Mood Disorders

PubMed Central

Rosa, Moacyr A; Lisanby, Sarah H

2012-01-01

Somatic treatments for mood disorders represent a class of interventions available either as a stand-alone option, or in combination with psychopharmacology and/or psychotherapy. Here, we review the currently available techniques, including those already in clinical use and those still under research. Techniques are grouped into the following categories: (1) seizure therapies, including electroconvulsive therapy and magnetic seizure therapy, (2) noninvasive techniques, including repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, transcranial direct current stimulation, and cranial electric stimulation, (3) surgical approaches, including vagus nerve stimulation, epidural electrical stimulation, and deep brain stimulation, and (4) technologies on the horizon. Additionally, we discuss novel approaches to the optimization of each treatment, and new techniques that are under active investigation. PMID:21976043

MREIT experiments with 200 µA injected currents: a feasibility study using two reconstruction algorithms, SMM and harmonic B(Z).

PubMed

Arpinar, V E; Hamamura, M J; Degirmenci, E; Muftuler, L T

2012-07-07

Magnetic resonance electrical impedance tomography (MREIT) is a technique that produces images of conductivity in tissues and phantoms. In this technique, electrical currents are applied to an object and the resulting magnetic flux density is measured using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and the conductivity distribution is reconstructed using these MRI data. Currently, the technique is used in research environments, primarily studying phantoms and animals. In order to translate MREIT to clinical applications, strict safety standards need to be established, especially for safe current limits. However, there are currently no standards for safe current limits specific to MREIT. Until such standards are established, human MREIT applications need to conform to existing electrical safety standards in medical instrumentation, such as IEC601. This protocol limits patient auxiliary currents to 100 µA for low frequencies. However, published MREIT studies have utilized currents 10-400 times larger than this limit, bringing into question whether the clinical applications of MREIT are attainable under current standards. In this study, we investigated the feasibility of MREIT to accurately reconstruct the relative conductivity of a simple agarose phantom using 200 µA total injected current and tested the performance of two MREIT reconstruction algorithms. These reconstruction algorithms used are the iterative sensitivity matrix method (SMM) by Ider and Birgul (1998 Elektrik 6 215-25) with Tikhonov regularization and the harmonic B(Z) proposed by Oh et al (2003 Magn. Reason. Med. 50 875-8). The reconstruction techniques were tested at both 200 µA and 5 mA injected currents to investigate their noise sensitivity at low and high current conditions. It should be noted that 200 µA total injected current into a cylindrical phantom generates only 14.7 µA current in imaging slice. Similarly, 5 mA total injected current results in 367 µA in imaging slice. Total acquisition time for 200 µA and 5 mA experiments was about 1 h and 8.5 min, respectively. The results demonstrate that conductivity imaging is possible at low currents using the suggested imaging parameters and reconstructing the images using iterative SMM with Tikhonov regularization, which appears to be more tolerant to noisy data than harmonic B(Z).

Effect of groove width of modified current collector on internal short circuit of abused lithium-ion battery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Meng; Shi, Yang; Noelle, Daniel J.; Le, Anh V.; Qiao, Yu

2017-10-01

In a lithium-ion battery (LIB), mechanical abuse often leads to internal short circuits (ISC) that trigger thermal runaway. We investigated a thermal-runaway mitigation (TRM) technique using a modified current collector. By generating surface grooves on the current collector, the area of electrodes directly involved in ISC could be largely reduced, which decreased the ISC current. The TRM mechanism took effect immediately after the LIB was damaged. The testing data indicate that the groove width is a critical factor. With optimized groove width, this technique may enable robust and multifunctional design of LIB cells for large-scale energy-storage units.

Ultralow-quiescent-current and wide-load-range low-dropout linear regulator with self-biasing technique for micropower battery management

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ozaki, Toshihiro; Hirose, Tetsuya; Asano, Hiroki; Kuroki, Nobutaka; Numa, Masahiro

2017-04-01

In this paper, we present a 151 nA quiescent and 6.8 mA maximum-output-current low-dropout (LDO) linear regulator for micropower battery management. The LDO regulator employs self-biasing and multiple-stacked cascode techniques to achieve efficient, accurate, and high-voltage-input-tolerant operation. Measurement results demonstrated that the proposed LDO regulator operates with an ultralow quiescent current of 151 nA. The maximum output currents with a 4.16 V output were 1.0 and 6.8 mA when the input voltages were 4.25 and 5.0 V, respectively.

Immersed transient eddy current flow metering: a calibration-free velocity measurement technique for liquid metals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krauter, N.; Stefani, F.

2017-10-01

Eddy current flow meters are widely used for measuring the flow velocity of electrically conducting fluids. Since the flow induced perturbations of a magnetic field depend both on the geometry and the conductivity of the fluid, extensive calibration is needed to get accurate results. Transient eddy current flow metering has been developed to overcome this problem. It relies on tracking the position of an impressed eddy current system that is moving with the same velocity as the conductive fluid. We present an immersed version of this measurement technique and demonstrate its viability by numerical simulations and a first experimental validation.

Inside-Out Meniscus Repair

PubMed Central

Nelson, Clay G.; Bonner, Kevin F.

2013-01-01

Meniscus repair over resection, when feasible, should be strongly considered in an effort to preserve meniscus integrity and function, especially in younger patients. Currently, a number of techniques and implants may be used to achieve a successful result. Although all-inside meniscus repair devices have evolved significantly since their introduction and have become the repair technique of choice for many surgeons, the classic inside-out repair technique is still very useful to have in one's armamentarium. Though less popular because of the ease of current-generation fixators, the inside-out technique can still offer advantages for those surgeons who are proficient. With the versatility to address most tear patterns, the ability to deliver sutures with smaller needle diameters, and proven long-term results, it has been considered the gold standard in meniscus repair. We review the inside-out repair technique for both a medial and lateral meniscus tear with some helpful tips when performing the technique, and we present a video demonstration of the lateral meniscus repair technique. PMID:24400199

Nuclear Technology. Course 32: Nondestructive Examination (NDE) Techniques II. Module 32-6, Operation of Eddy Current Test Equipment.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Espy, John; Selleck, Ben

This sixth in a series of six modules for a course titled Nondestructive Examination (NDE) Techniques II details eddy current examination of steam generator tubing. The module follows a typical format that includes the following sections: (1) introduction, (2) module prerequisites, (3) objectives, (4) notes to instructor/student, (5) subject…

Phase-locked loop design with fast-digital-calibration charge pump

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, San-Fu; Hwang, Tsuen-Shiau; Wang, Jhen-Ji

2016-02-01

A fast-digital-calibration technique is proposed for reducing current mismatch in the charge pump (CP) of a phase-locked loop (PLL). The current mismatch in the CP generates fluctuations, which is transferred to the input of voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO). Therefore, the current mismatch increases the reference spur in the PLL. Improving current match of CP will reduce the reference spur and decrease the static phase offset of PLLs. Moreover, the settling time, ripple and power consumption of the PLL are also improved by the proposed technique. This study evaluated a 2.27-2.88 GHz frequency synthesiser fabricated in TSMC 0.18 μm CMOS 1.8 V process. The tuning range of proposed VCO is about 26%. By using the fast-digital-calibration technique, current mismatch is reduced to lower than 0.97%, and the operation range of the proposed CP is between 0.2 and 1.6 V. The proposed PLL has a total power consumption of 22.57 mW and a settling time of 10 μs or less.

Quantifying short-lived events in multistate ionic current measurements.

PubMed

Balijepalli, Arvind; Ettedgui, Jessica; Cornio, Andrew T; Robertson, Joseph W F; Cheung, Kin P; Kasianowicz, John J; Vaz, Canute

2014-02-25

We developed a generalized technique to characterize polymer-nanopore interactions via single channel ionic current measurements. Physical interactions between analytes, such as DNA, proteins, or synthetic polymers, and a nanopore cause multiple discrete states in the current. We modeled the transitions of the current to individual states with an equivalent electrical circuit, which allowed us to describe the system response. This enabled the estimation of short-lived states that are presently not characterized by existing analysis techniques. Our approach considerably improves the range and resolution of single-molecule characterization with nanopores. For example, we characterized the residence times of synthetic polymers that are three times shorter than those estimated with existing algorithms. Because the molecule's residence time follows an exponential distribution, we recover nearly 20-fold more events per unit time that can be used for analysis. Furthermore, the measurement range was extended from 11 monomers to as few as 8. Finally, we applied this technique to recover a known sequence of single-stranded DNA from previously published ion channel recordings, identifying discrete current states with subpicoampere resolution.

Cognitive-behavior therapy for problem gambling: a critique of current treatments and proposed new unified approach.

PubMed

Tolchard, Barry

2017-06-01

There is evidence supporting the use of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) in the treatment of problem gambling. Despite this, little is known about how CBT works and which particular approach is most effective. This paper aims to synthesize the evidence for current CBT and propose a more unified approach to treatment. A literature review and narrative synthesis of the current research evidence of CBT for the treatment of problem gambling was conducted, focusing on the underlying mechanisms within the treatment approach. Several CBT approaches were critiqued. These can be divided into forms of exposure therapy (including aversion techniques, systematic desensitization and other behavioral experiments) those focusing on cognitive restructuring techniques (such as reinforcement of nongambling activity, use of diaries, motivational enhancement and audio-playback techniques and third wave techniques including mindfulness. Findings, in relation to the treatment actions, from this synthesis are reported. The debate surrounding the treatment of problem gambling has been conducted as an either/or rather than a both/and discourse. This paper proposes a new, unified approach to the treatment of problem gambling that incorporates the best elements of both exposure and cognitive restructuring techniques, alongside the use of techniques borrowed from mindfulness and other CBT approaches.

Wireless sensor and data transmission needs and technologies for patient monitoring in the operating room and intensive care unit.

PubMed

Paksuniemi, M; Sorvoja, H; Alasaarela, E; Myllyla, R

2005-01-01

In the intensive care unit, or during anesthesia, patients are attached to monitors by cables. These cables obstruct nursing staff and hinder the patients from moving freely in the hospital. However, rapidly developing wireless technologies are expected to solve these problems. To this end, this study revealed problem areas in current patient monitoring and established the most important medical parameters to monitor. In addition, usable wireless techniques for short-range data transmission were explored and currently employed wireless applications in the hospital environment were studied. The most important parameters measured of the patient include blood pressures, electrocardiography, respiration rate, heart rate and temperature. Currently used wireless techniques in hospitals are based on the WMTS and WLAN standards. There are no viable solutions for short-range data transmission from patient sensors to patient monitors, but potentially usable techniques in the future are based on the WPAN standards. These techniques include Bluetooth, ZigBee and UWB. Other suitable techniques might be based on capacitive or inductive coupling. The establishing of wireless techniques depends on ensuring the reliability of data transmission, eliminating disturbance by other wireless devices, ensuring patient data security and patient safety, and lowering the power consumption and price.

Interhemispheric currents in the ring current region as seen by the Cluster spacecraft

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tenfjord, P.; Ostgaard, N.; Haaland, S.; Laundal, K.; Reistad, J. P.

2013-12-01

The existence of interhemispheric currents has been predicted by several authors, but their extent in the ring current has to our knowledge never been studied systematically by using in-situ measurements. These currents have been suggested to be associated with observed asymmetries of the aurora. We perform a statistical study of current density and direction during ring current crossings using the Cluster spacecraft. We analyse the extent of the interhemispheric field aligned currents for a wide range of solar wind conditions. Direct estimations of equatorial current direction and density are achieved through the curlometer technique. The curlometer technique is based on Ampere's law and requires magnetic field measurements from all four spacecrafts. The use of this method requires careful study of factors that limit the accuracy, such as tetrahedron shape and configuration. This significantly limits our dataset, but is a necessity for accurate current calculations. Our goal is to statistically investigate the occurrence of interhemispheric currents, and determine if there are parameters or magnetospheric states on which the current magnitude and directions depend upon.

Presentation and Impact of Experimental Techniques in Chemistry

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sojka, Zbigniew; Che, Michel

2008-01-01

Laboratory and practical courses, where students become familiar with experimental techniques and learn to interpret data and relate them to appropriate theory, play a vital role in chemical education. In the large panoply of currently available techniques, it is difficult to find a rational and easy way to classify the techniques in relation to…

Unwrapping eddy current compensation: improved compensation of eddy current induced baseline shifts in high-resolution phase-contrast MRI at 9.4 Tesla.

PubMed

Espe, Emil K S; Zhang, Lili; Sjaastad, Ivar

2014-10-01

Phase-contrast MRI (PC-MRI) is a versatile tool allowing evaluation of in vivo motion, but is sensitive to eddy current induced phase offsets, causing errors in the measured velocities. In high-resolution PC-MRI, these offsets can be sufficiently large to cause wrapping in the baseline phase, rendering conventional eddy current compensation (ECC) inadequate. The purpose of this study was to develop an improved ECC technique (unwrapping ECC) able to handle baseline phase discontinuities. Baseline phase discontinuities are unwrapped by minimizing the spatiotemporal standard deviation of the static-tissue phase. Computer simulations were used for demonstrating the theoretical foundation of the proposed technique. The presence of baseline wrapping was confirmed in high-resolution myocardial PC-MRI of a normal rat heart at 9.4 Tesla (T), and the performance of unwrapping ECC was compared with conventional ECC. Areas of phase wrapping in static regions were clearly evident in high-resolution PC-MRI. The proposed technique successfully eliminated discontinuities in the baseline, and resulted in significantly better ECC than the conventional approach. We report the occurrence of baseline phase wrapping in PC-MRI, and provide an improved ECC technique capable of handling its presence. Unwrapping ECC offers improved correction of eddy current induced baseline shifts in high-resolution PC-MRI. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

A novel method to predict current voltage characteristics of positive corona discharges based on a perturbation technique. I. Local analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shibata, Hisaichi; Takaki, Ryoji

2017-11-01

A novel method to compute current-voltage characteristics (CVCs) of direct current positive corona discharges is formulated based on a perturbation technique. We use linearized fluid equations coupled with the linearized Poisson's equation. Townsend relation is assumed to predict CVCs apart from the linearization point. We choose coaxial cylinders as a test problem, and we have successfully predicted parameters which can determine CVCs with arbitrary inner and outer radii. It is also confirmed that the proposed method essentially does not induce numerical instabilities.

New GMO regulations for old: Determining a new future for EU crop biotechnology.

PubMed

Davison, John; Ammann, Klaus

2017-01-02

In this review, current EU GMO regulations are subjected to a point-by point analysis to determine their suitability for agriculture in modern Europe. Our analysis concerns present GMO regulations as well as suggestions for possible new regulations for genome editing and New Breeding Techniques (for which no regulations presently exist). Firstly, the present GMO regulations stem from the early days of recombinant DNA and are not adapted to current scientific understanding on this subject. Scientific understanding of GMOs has changed and these regulations are now, not only unfit for their original purpose, but, the purpose itself is now no longer scientifically valid. Indeed, they defy scientific, economic, and even common, sense. A major EU regulatory preconception is that GM crops are basically different from their parent crops. Thus, the EU regulations are "process based" regulations that discriminate against GMOs simply because they are GMOs. However current scientific evidence shows a blending of classical crops and their GMO counterparts with no clear demarcation line between them. Canada has a "product based" approach and determines the safety of each new crop variety independently of the process used to obtain it. We advise that the EC re-writes it outdated regulations and moves toward such a product based approach.  Secondly, over the last few years new genomic editing techniques (sometimes called New Breeding Techniques) have evolved. These techniques are basically mutagenesis techniques that can generate genomic diversity and have vast potential for crop improvement. They are not GMO based techniques (any more than mutagenesis is a GMO technique), since in many cases no new DNA is introduced. Thus they cannot simply be lumped together with GMOs (as many anti-GMO NGOs would prefer). The EU currently has no regulations to cover these new techniques. In this review, we make suggestions as to how these new gene edited crops may be regulated. The EU is at a turning point where the wrong decision could destroy European agricultural competitively for decades to come.

Ultrafast Laser-Based Spectroscopy and Sensing: Applications in LIBS, CARS, and THz Spectroscopy

PubMed Central

Leahy-Hoppa, Megan R.; Miragliotta, Joseph; Osiander, Robert; Burnett, Jennifer; Dikmelik, Yamac; McEnnis, Caroline; Spicer, James B.

2010-01-01

Ultrafast pulsed lasers find application in a range of spectroscopy and sensing techniques including laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), coherent Raman spectroscopy, and terahertz (THz) spectroscopy. Whether based on absorption or emission processes, the characteristics of these techniques are heavily influenced by the use of ultrafast pulses in the signal generation process. Depending on the energy of the pulses used, the essential laser interaction process can primarily involve lattice vibrations, molecular rotations, or a combination of excited states produced by laser heating. While some of these techniques are currently confined to sensing at close ranges, others can be implemented for remote spectroscopic sensing owing principally to the laser pulse duration. We present a review of ultrafast laser-based spectroscopy techniques and discuss the use of these techniques to current and potential chemical and environmental sensing applications. PMID:22399883

ELM mitigation techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Evans, T. E.

2013-07-01

Large edge-localized mode (ELM) control techniques must be developed to help ensure the success of burning and ignited fusion plasma devices such as tokamaks and stellarators. In full performance ITER tokamak discharges, with QDT = 10, the energy released by a single ELM could reach ˜30 MJ which is expected to result in an energy density of 10-15 MJ/m2on the divertor targets. This will exceed the estimated divertor ablation limit by a factor of 20-30. A worldwide research program is underway to develop various types of ELM control techniques in preparation for ITER H-mode plasma operations. An overview of the ELM control techniques currently being developed is discussed along with the requirements for applying these techniques to plasmas in ITER. Particular emphasis is given to the primary approaches, pellet pacing and resonant magnetic perturbation fields, currently being considered for ITER.

3D temporal subtraction on multislice CT images using nonlinear warping technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ishida, Takayuki; Katsuragawa, Shigehiko; Kawashita, Ikuo; Kim, Hyounseop; Itai, Yoshinori; Awai, Kazuo; Li, Qiang; Doi, Kunio

2007-03-01

The detection of very subtle lesions and/or lesions overlapped with vessels on CT images is a time consuming and difficult task for radiologists. In this study, we have developed a 3D temporal subtraction method to enhance interval changes between previous and current multislice CT images based on a nonlinear image warping technique. Our method provides a subtraction CT image which is obtained by subtraction of a previous CT image from a current CT image. Reduction of misregistration artifacts is important in the temporal subtraction method. Therefore, our computerized method includes global and local image matching techniques for accurate registration of current and previous CT images. For global image matching, we selected the corresponding previous section image for each current section image by using 2D cross-correlation between a blurred low-resolution current CT image and a blurred previous CT image. For local image matching, we applied the 3D template matching technique with translation and rotation of volumes of interests (VOIs) which were selected in the current and the previous CT images. The local shift vector for each VOI pair was determined when the cross-correlation value became the maximum in the 3D template matching. The local shift vectors at all voxels were determined by interpolation of shift vectors of VOIs, and then the previous CT image was nonlinearly warped according to the shift vector for each voxel. Finally, the warped previous CT image was subtracted from the current CT image. The 3D temporal subtraction method was applied to 19 clinical cases. The normal background structures such as vessels, ribs, and heart were removed without large misregistration artifacts. Thus, interval changes due to lung diseases were clearly enhanced as white shadows on subtraction CT images.

The Development of Program for Enhancing Learning Management Competency of Teachers in Non-Formal and Informal Education Centers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jutasong, Chanokpon; Sirisuthi, Chaiyut; Phusri-on, Songsak

2016-01-01

The objectives of this research are: 1) to study factors and indicators, 2) to study current situations, desirable situations and techniques, 3) to develop the Program, and 4) to study the effect of Program. It comprised 4 phases: (1) studying the factors and indicators; (2) studying the current situations, desirable situations and techniques; (3)…

Advancements in optical techniques and imaging in the diagnosis and management of bladder cancer.

PubMed

Rose, Tracy L; Lotan, Yair

2018-03-01

Accurate detection and staging is critical to the appropriate management of urothelial cancer (UC). The use of advanced optical techniques during cystoscopy is becoming more widespread to prevent recurrent nonmuscle invasive bladder cancer. Standard of care for muscle-invasive UC includes the use of computed tomography and/or magnetic resonance imaging, but staging accuracy of these tests remains imperfect. Novel imaging modalities are being developed to improve current test performance. Positron emission tomography/computed tomography has a role in the initial evaluation of select patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer and in disease recurrence in some cases. Several novel immuno-positron emission tomography tracers are currently in development to address the inadequacy of current imaging modalities for monitoring of tumor response to newer immune-based treatments. This review summaries the current standards and recent advances in optical techniques and imaging modalities in localized and metastatic UC. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Modeling of phonon scattering in n-type nanowire transistors using one-shot analytic continuation technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bescond, Marc; Li, Changsheng; Mera, Hector; Cavassilas, Nicolas; Lannoo, Michel

2013-10-01

We present a one-shot current-conserving approach to model the influence of electron-phonon scattering in nano-transistors using the non-equilibrium Green's function formalism. The approach is based on the lowest order approximation (LOA) to the current and its simplest analytic continuation (LOA+AC). By means of a scaling argument, we show how both LOA and LOA+AC can be easily obtained from the first iteration of the usual self-consistent Born approximation (SCBA) algorithm. Both LOA and LOA+AC are then applied to model n-type silicon nanowire field-effect-transistors and are compared to SCBA current characteristics. In this system, the LOA fails to describe electron-phonon scattering, mainly because of the interactions with acoustic phonons at the band edges. In contrast, the LOA+AC still well approximates the SCBA current characteristics, thus demonstrating the power of analytic continuation techniques. The limits of validity of LOA+AC are also discussed, and more sophisticated and general analytic continuation techniques are suggested for more demanding cases.

An omnipotent Li-ion battery charger with multimode control and polarity reversible techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Jiann-Jong; Ku, Yi-Tsen; Yang, Hong-Yi; Hwang, Yuh-Shyan; Yu, Cheng-Chieh

2016-07-01

The omnipotent Li-ion battery charger with multimode control and polarity reversible techniques is presented in this article. The proposed chip is fabricated with TSMC 0.35μm 2P4M complementary metal-oxide- semiconductor processes, and the chip area including pads is 1.5 × 1.5 mm2. The structure of the omnipotent charger combines three charging modes and polarity reversible techniques, which adapt to any Li-ion batteries. The three reversible Li-ion battery charging modes, including trickle-current charging, large-current charging and constant-voltage charging, can charge in matching polarities or opposite polarities. The proposed circuit has a maximum charging current of 300 mA and the input voltage of the proposed circuit is set to 4.5 V. The maximum efficiency of the proposed charger is about 91% and its average efficiency is 74.8%. The omnipotent charger can precisely provide the charging current to the battery.

A Kalman Filter Based Technique for Stator Turn-Fault Detection of the Induction Motors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghanbari, Teymoor; Samet, Haidar

2017-11-01

Monitoring of the Induction Motors (IMs) through stator current for different faults diagnosis has considerable economic and technical advantages in comparison with the other techniques in this content. Among different faults of an IM, stator and bearing faults are more probable types, which can be detected by analyzing signatures of the stator currents. One of the most reliable indicators for fault detection of IMs is lower sidebands of power frequency in the stator currents. This paper deals with a novel simple technique for detecting stator turn-fault of the IMs. Frequencies of the lower sidebands are determined using the motor specifications and their amplitudes are estimated by a Kalman Filter (KF). Instantaneous Total Harmonic Distortion (ITHD) of these harmonics is calculated. Since variation of the ITHD for the three-phase currents is considerable in case of stator turn-fault, the fault can be detected using this criterion, confidently. Different simulation results verify high performance of the proposed method. The performance of the method is also confirmed using some experiments.

History of tumescent anesthesia, part I: from American surgical textbooks of the 1920s and 1930s.

PubMed

Welch, J D

1998-01-01

The current technique of "tumescent anesthesia," popularized by Dr. Jeffrey A. Klein, has evolved from the developments of local anesthetic agents and various infusion devices over the last 110 years. "Tumescent anesthesia" is really a variation of a much older technique known as "massive infiltration" or "hard infiltration." By 1915 "massive infiltration analgesia with weak analgesic solutions" was a well-developed and widely used form of analgesia. Various pressurized or motorized devices for the propulsion of the solutions, flexible needles, multiple formulas, and many applications of the technique were described and illustrated in several standard American surgical textbooks of the 1920s and 1930s. The goal was to render a large field anesthetic and relatively bloodless by use of only regionally injected solutions. In our current era, Dr. Ed Hamacher et al. and Dr. Klein deserve credit for reintroducing this old technique and for establishing new parameters for lidocaine toxicity. It is important for us to remember that the current technique of "tumescent anesthesia" really evolved over the last 110 years as the synthesis of the ideas of many individuals throughout the world.

New techniques for wound debridement.

PubMed

Madhok, Brijesh M; Vowden, Kathryn; Vowden, Peter

2013-06-01

Debridement is a crucial component of wound management. Traditionally, several types of wound debridement techniques have been used in clinical practice such as autolytic, enzymatic, biodebridement, mechanical, conservative sharp and surgical. Various factors determine the method of choice for debridement for a particular wound such as suitability to the patient, the type of wound, its anatomical location and the extent of debridement required. Recently developed products are beginning to challenge traditional techniques that are currently used in wound bed preparation. The purpose of this review was to critically evaluate the current evidence behind the use of these newer techniques in clinical practice. There is some evidence to suggest that low frequency ultrasound therapy may improve healing rates in patients with venous ulcers and diabetic foot ulcers. Hydrosurgery debridement is quick and precise, but the current evidence is limited and further studies are underway. Debridement using a monofilament polyester fibre pad and plasma-mediated bipolar radiofrequency ablation are both very new techniques. The initial evidence is limited, and further studies are warranted to confirm their role in management of chronic wounds. © 2013 The Authors. International Wound Journal © 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd and Medicalhelplines.com Inc.

Controlling Fringe Sensitivity of Electro-Optic Holography Systems Using Laser Diode Current Modulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bybee, Shannon J.

2001-01-01

Electro-Optic Holography (EOH) is a non-intrusive, laser-based, displacement measurement technique capable of static and dynamic displacement measurements. EOH is an optical interference technique in which fringe patterns that represent displacement contour maps are generated. At excessively large displacements the fringe density may be so great that individual fringes are not resolvable using typical EOH techniques. This thesis focuses on the development and implementation of a method for controlling the sensitivity of the EOH system. This method is known as Frequency Translated Electro-Optic Holography (FTEOH). It was determined that by modulating the current source of the laser diode at integer multiples of the object vibration, the fringe pattern is governed by higher order Bessel function of the first kind and the number of fringes that represent a given displacement can be controlled. The reduction of fringes is theoretically unlimited but physically limited by the frequency bandwidth of the signal generator, providing modulation to the laser diode. Although this research technique has been verified theoretically and experimentally in this thesis, due to the current laser diode capabilities it is a tedious and time consuming process to acquire data using the FTEOH technique.

An examination of techniques for reformatting digital cartographic data/part 1: the raster-to- vector process.

USGS Publications Warehouse

Peuquet, D.J.

1981-01-01

Current graphic devices suitable for high-speed computer input and output of cartographic data are tending more and more to be raster-oriented, such as the rotating drum scanner and the color raster display. However, the majority of commonly used manipulative techniques in computer-assisted cartography and automated spatial data handling continue to require that the data be in vector format. This situation has recently precipitated the requirement for very fast techniques for converting digital cartographic data from raster to vector format for processing, and then back into raster format for plotting. The current article is part 1 of a 2 part paper concerned with examining the state-of-the-art in these conversion techniques. -from Author

On Convergence Acceleration Techniques for Unstructured Meshes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mavriplis, Dimitri J.

1998-01-01

A discussion of convergence acceleration techniques as they relate to computational fluid dynamics problems on unstructured meshes is given. Rather than providing a detailed description of particular methods, the various different building blocks of current solution techniques are discussed and examples of solution strategies using one or several of these ideas are given. Issues relating to unstructured grid CFD problems are given additional consideration, including suitability of algorithms to current hardware trends, memory and cpu tradeoffs, treatment of non-linearities, and the development of efficient strategies for handling anisotropy-induced stiffness. The outlook for future potential improvements is also discussed.

A window on disease pathogenesis and potential therapeutic strategies: molecular imaging for arthritis

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Novel molecular imaging techniques are at the forefront of both preclinical and clinical imaging strategies. They have significant potential to offer visualisation and quantification of molecular and cellular changes in health and disease. This will help to shed light on pathobiology and underlying disease processes and provide further information about the mechanisms of action of novel therapeutic strategies. This review explores currently available molecular imaging techniques that are available for preclinical studies with a focus on optical imaging techniques and discusses how current and future advances will enable translation into the clinic for patients with arthritis. PMID:21345267

Eddy current system for inspection of train hollow axles

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

Chady, Tomasz; Psuj, Grzegorz; Sikora, Ryszard

2014-02-18

The structural integrity of wheelsets used in rolling stock is of great importance to the safety. In this paper, electromagnetic system with an eddy current transducer suitable for the inspection of hollow axles have been presented. The transducer was developed to detect surface braking defects having depth not smaller than 0.5 mm. Ultrasound technique can be utilized to inspect the whole axle, but it is not sufficiently sensitive to shallow defects located close to the surface. Therefore, the electromagnetic technique is proposed to detect surface breaking cracks that cannot be detected by ultrasonic technique.

Postprocessing techniques for 3D non-linear structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gallagher, Richard S.

1987-01-01

How graphics postprocessing techniques are currently used to examine the results of 3-D nonlinear analyses, some new techniques which take advantage of recent technology, and how these results relate to both the finite element model and its geometric parent are reviewed.

Regression analysis of current-status data: an application to breast-feeding.

PubMed

Grummer-strawn, L M

1993-09-01

"Although techniques for calculating mean survival time from current-status data are well known, their use in multiple regression models is somewhat troublesome. Using data on current breast-feeding behavior, this article considers a number of techniques that have been suggested in the literature, including parametric, nonparametric, and semiparametric models as well as the application of standard schedules. Models are tested in both proportional-odds and proportional-hazards frameworks....I fit [the] models to current status data on breast-feeding from the Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) in six countries: two African (Mali and Ondo State, Nigeria), two Asian (Indonesia and Sri Lanka), and two Latin American (Colombia and Peru)." excerpt

The Oxford Medial Partial Knee Replacement. The rationale for a femur first technique.

PubMed

Shakespeare, David; Waite, Jon

2012-12-01

The Oxford Medial Partial Knee Replacement (PKR) has been in clinical use for more than 20 years. The current surgical technique requires a number of judgements to be made, and even in the most experienced hands surgery can be challenging. We present an alternative surgical technique, which we believe addresses the unpredictability of the current method. The technique is based on precise femoral positioning prior to tibial resection. A prospective series of 125 Oxford Medial PKRs was performed using this new technique and a radiographical analysis was performed. We used meniscal thickness, meniscal position and femoral position as measures of reproducibility of the procedure. Variability in meniscal thickness has been minimised with a 3mm meniscal bearing used in 21 knees (15%), 4mm (the target thickness) in 73 knees (59%) and 5mm in 30 knees (24%). The mean meniscal position relative to the tibial tray upright was 2mm (SD 1mm). Femoral component position relative to the tibial tray, which defines the excursion of the meniscus was also assessed. Mean coronal plane alignment was 2° of valgus (SD 2.8). Mean flexion/extension was 3.8° (SD 3.1). The mean rotation was 10° internal (SD 5°). We believe this new technique makes this procedure more reproducible, and should be considered as a viable alternative to the current recommended technique. It may be a better technique for those surgeons who are relatively inexperienced with this prosthesis. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Next generation initiation techniques

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Warner, Tom; Derber, John; Zupanski, Milija; Cohn, Steve; Verlinde, Hans

1993-01-01

Four-dimensional data assimilation strategies can generally be classified as either current or next generation, depending upon whether they are used operationally or not. Current-generation data-assimilation techniques are those that are presently used routinely in operational-forecasting or research applications. They can be classified into the following categories: intermittent assimilation, Newtonian relaxation, and physical initialization. It should be noted that these techniques are the subject of continued research, and their improvement will parallel the development of next generation techniques described by the other speakers. Next generation assimilation techniques are those that are under development but are not yet used operationally. Most of these procedures are derived from control theory or variational methods and primarily represent continuous assimilation approaches, in which the data and model dynamics are 'fitted' to each other in an optimal way. Another 'next generation' category is the initialization of convective-scale models. Intermittent assimilation systems use an objective analysis to combine all observations within a time window that is centered on the analysis time. Continuous first-generation assimilation systems are usually based on the Newtonian-relaxation or 'nudging' techniques. Physical initialization procedures generally involve the use of standard or nonstandard data to force some physical process in the model during an assimilation period. Under the topic of next-generation assimilation techniques, variational approaches are currently being actively developed. Variational approaches seek to minimize a cost or penalty function which measures a model's fit to observations, background fields and other imposed constraints. Alternatively, the Kalman filter technique, which is also under investigation as a data assimilation procedure for numerical weather prediction, can yield acceptable initial conditions for mesoscale models. The third kind of next-generation technique involves strategies to initialize convective scale (non-hydrostatic) models.

On the radiated EMI current extraction of dc transmission line based on corona current statistical measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yi, Yong; Chen, Zhengying; Wang, Liming

2018-05-01

Corona-originated discharge of DC transmission lines is the main reason for the radiated electromagnetic interference (EMI) field in the vicinity of transmission lines. A joint time-frequency analysis technique was proposed to extract the radiated EMI current (excitation current) of DC corona based on corona current statistical measurements. A reduced-scale experimental platform was setup to measure the statistical distributions of current waveform parameters of aluminum conductor steel reinforced. Based on the measured results, the peak value, root-mean-square value and average value with 9 kHz and 200 Hz band-with of 0.5 MHz radiated EMI current were calculated by the technique proposed and validated with conventional excitation function method. Radio interference (RI) was calculated based on the radiated EMI current and a wire-to-plate platform was built for the validity of the RI computation results. The reason for the certain deviation between the computations and measurements was detailed analyzed.

76 FR 44604 - Draft Anacostia Park Wetland and Resident Canada Goose Management Plan/Environmental Impact...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-07-26

... the current wetland and goose management techniques which include: Invasive species management, trash... techniques. Proposed extensive wetland restoration opportunities could include: Managing invasive species.... Some of the wetland management techniques could include managing invasive species and [[Page 44605...

Lidar Measurements for Desert Dust Characterization: An Overview

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mona, L.; Liu, Z.; Mueller, D.; Omar, A.; Papayannis, A.; Pappalardo, G.; Sugimoto, N.; Vaughan, M.

2012-01-01

We provide an overview of light detection and ranging (lidar) capability for describing and characterizing desert dust. This paper summarizes lidar techniques, observations, and fallouts of desert dust lidar measurements. The main objective is to provide the scientific community, including non-practitioners of lidar observations with a reference paper on dust lidar measurements. In particular, it will fill the current gap of communication between research-oriented lidar community and potential desert dust data users, such as air quality monitoring agencies and aviation advisory centers. The current capability of the different lidar techniques for the characterization of aerosol in general and desert dust in particular is presented. Technical aspects and required assumptions of these techniques are discussed, providing readers with the pros and cons of each technique. Information about desert dust collected up to date using lidar techniques is reviewed. Lidar techniques for aerosol characterization have a maturity level appropriate for addressing air quality and transportation issues, as demonstrated by some first results reported in this paper

Estimating Ocean Currents from Automatic Identification System Based Ship Drift Measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jakub, Thomas D.

Ship drift is a technique that has been used over the last century and a half to estimate ocean currents. Several of the shortcomings of the ship drift technique include obtaining the data from multiple ships, the time delay in getting those ship positions to a data center for processing and the limited resolution based on the amount of time between position measurements. These shortcomings can be overcome through the use of the Automatic Identification System (AIS). AIS enables more precise ocean current estimates, the option of finer resolution and more timely estimates. In this work, a demonstration of the use of AIS to compute ocean currents is performed. A corresponding error and sensitivity analysis is performed to help identify under which conditions errors will be smaller. A case study in San Francisco Bay with constant AIS message updates was compared against high frequency radar and demonstrated ocean current magnitude residuals of 19 cm/s for ship tracks in a high signal to noise environment. These ship tracks were only minutes long compared to the normally 12 to 24 hour ship tracks. The Gulf of Mexico case study demonstrated the ability to estimate ocean currents over longer baselines and identified the dependency of the estimates on the accuracy of time measurements. Ultimately, AIS measurements when combined with ship drift can provide another method of estimating ocean currents, particularly when other measurements techniques are not available.

Identifying intervals of temporally invariant field-aligned currents from Swarm: Assessing the validity of single-spacecraft methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Forsyth, C.; Rae, I. J.; Mann, I. R.; Pakhotin, I. P.

2017-03-01

Field-aligned currents (FACs) are a fundamental component of coupled solar wind-magnetosphere-ionosphere. By assuming that FACs can be approximated by stationary infinite current sheets that do not change on the spacecraft crossing time, single-spacecraft magnetic field measurements can be used to estimate the currents flowing in space. By combining data from multiple spacecraft on similar orbits, these stationarity assumptions can be tested. In this technical report, we present a new technique that combines cross correlation and linear fitting of multiple spacecraft measurements to determine the reliability of the FAC estimates. We show that this technique can identify those intervals in which the currents estimated from single-spacecraft techniques are both well correlated and have similar amplitudes, thus meeting the spatial and temporal stationarity requirements. Using data from European Space Agency's Swarm mission from 2014 to 2015, we show that larger-scale currents (>450 km) are well correlated and have a one-to-one fit up to 50% of the time, whereas small-scale (<50 km) currents show similar amplitudes only 1% of the time despite there being a good correlation 18% of the time. It is thus imperative to examine both the correlation and amplitude of the calculated FACs in order to assess both the validity of the underlying assumptions and hence ultimately the reliability of such single-spacecraft FAC estimates.

Methods for stable recording of short-circuit current in a Na+-transporting epithelium.

PubMed

Gondzik, Veronika; Awayda, Mouhamed S

2011-07-01

Epithelial Na(+) transport as measured by a variety of techniques, including the short-circuit current technique, has been described to exhibit a "rundown" phenomenon. This phenomenon manifests as time-dependent decrease of current and resistance and precludes the ability to carry out prolonged experiments aimed at examining the regulation of this transport. We developed methods for prolonged stable recordings of epithelial Na(+) transport using modifications of the short-circuit current technique and commercial Ussing-type chambers. We utilize the polarized MDCK cell line expressing the epithelial Na(+) channel (ENaC) to describe these methods. Briefly, existing commercial chambers were modified to allow continuous flow of Ringer solution and precise control of such flow. Chamber manifolds and associated plumbing were modified to allow precise temperature clamp preventing temperature oscillations. Recording electrodes were modified to eliminate the use of KCl and prevent membrane depolarization from KCl leakage. Solutions utilized standard bicarbonate-based buffers, but all gasses were prehydrated to clamp buffer osmolarity. We demonstrate that these modifications result in measurements of current and resistance that are stable for at least 2 h. We further demonstrate that drifts in osmolarity similar to those obtained before prior to our modifications can lead to a decrease of current and resistance similar to those attributed to rundown.

A comparative analysis of soft computing techniques for gene prediction.

PubMed

Goel, Neelam; Singh, Shailendra; Aseri, Trilok Chand

2013-07-01

The rapid growth of genomic sequence data for both human and nonhuman species has made analyzing these sequences, especially predicting genes in them, very important and is currently the focus of many research efforts. Beside its scientific interest in the molecular biology and genomics community, gene prediction is of considerable importance in human health and medicine. A variety of gene prediction techniques have been developed for eukaryotes over the past few years. This article reviews and analyzes the application of certain soft computing techniques in gene prediction. First, the problem of gene prediction and its challenges are described. These are followed by different soft computing techniques along with their application to gene prediction. In addition, a comparative analysis of different soft computing techniques for gene prediction is given. Finally some limitations of the current research activities and future research directions are provided. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Induction motor broken rotor bar fault location detection through envelope analysis of start-up current using Hilbert transform

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abd-el-Malek, Mina; Abdelsalam, Ahmed K.; Hassan, Ola E.

2017-09-01

Robustness, low running cost and reduced maintenance lead Induction Motors (IMs) to pioneerly penetrate the industrial drive system fields. Broken rotor bars (BRBs) can be considered as an important fault that needs to be early assessed to minimize the maintenance cost and labor time. The majority of recent BRBs' fault diagnostic techniques focus on differentiating between healthy and faulty rotor cage. In this paper, a new technique is proposed for detecting the location of the broken bar in the rotor. The proposed technique relies on monitoring certain statistical parameters estimated from the analysis of the start-up stator current envelope. The envelope of the signal is obtained using Hilbert Transformation (HT). The proposed technique offers non-invasive, fast computational and accurate location diagnostic process. Various simulation scenarios are presented that validate the effectiveness of the proposed technique.

Design and fabrication of light weight current collectors for direct methanol fuel cells using the micro-electro mechanical system technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sung, Min-Feng; Kuan, Yean-Der; Chen, Bing-Xian; Lee, Shi-Min

The direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) is suitable for portable applications. Therefore, a light weight and small size is desirable. The main objective of this paper is to design and fabricate a light weight current collector for DMFC usage. The light weight current collector mainly consists of a substrate with two thin film metal layers. The substrate of the current collector is an FR4 epoxy plate. The thin film metal layers are accomplished by the thermo coater technique to coat metal powders onto the substrate surfaces. The developed light weight current collectors are further assembled to a single cell DMFC test fixture to measure the cell performance. The results show that the proposed current collectors could even be applied to DMFCs because they are light, thin and low cost and have potential for mass production.

Professionals' views of fetal-monitoring support the development of devices to provide objective longer-term assessment of fetal wellbeing.

PubMed

Brown, Rebecca; Johnstone, Edward D; Heazell, Alexander E P

2016-01-01

Continuous longer-term fetal monitoring has been proposed to address limitations of current technologies in the detection of fetal compromise. We aimed to assess professionals' views regarding current fetal-monitoring techniques and proposed longer-term continuous fetal monitoring. A questionnaire was designed and validated to assess obstetricians' and midwives' use of current fetal-monitoring techniques and their views towards continuous monitoring. 125 of 173 received responses (72% obstetricians, 28% midwives) were analysed. Professionals had the strongest views about supporting evidence for the most commonly employed fetal-monitoring techniques (maternal awareness of fetal movements, ultrasound assessment of fetal growth and umbilical artery Doppler). 45.1% of professionals agreed that a continuous monitoring device would be beneficial (versus 28.7% who disagreed); this perceived benefit was not influenced by professionals' views regarding current techniques or professional background. Professionals have limited experience of continuous fetal monitoring, but most respondents believed that it would increase maternal anxiety (64.3%) and would have concerns with its use in clinical practice (81.7%). Continuous fetal monitoring would be acceptable to the majority of professionals. However, development of these technologies must be accompanied by extended examination of professionals' and women's views to determine barriers to its introduction.

Electronegative plasma diagnostic by laser photo-detachment combined with negatively biased Langmuir probe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oudini, N.; Sirse, N.; Taccogna, F.; Ellingboe, A. R.; Bendib, A.

2018-05-01

We propose a new technique for diagnosing negative ion properties using Langmuir probe assisted pulsed laser photo-detachment. While the classical technique uses a laser pulse to convert negative ions into electron-atom pairs and a positively biased Langmuir probe tracking the change of electron saturation current, the proposed method uses a negatively biased Langmuir probe to track the temporal evolution of positive ion current. The negative bias aims to avoid the parasitic electron current inherent to probe tip surface ablation. In this work, we show through analytical and numerical approaches that, by knowing electron temperature and performing photo-detachment at two different laser wavelengths, it is possible to deduce plasma electronegativity (ratio of negative ion to electron densities) α, and anisothermicity (ratio of electron to negative ion temperatures) γ-. We present an analytical model that links the change in the collected positive ion current to plasma electronegativity and anisothermicity. Particle-In-Cell simulation is used as a numerical experiment covering a wide range of α and γ- to test the new analysis technique. The new technique is sensitive to α in the range 0.5 < α < 10 and yields γ- for large α, where negative ion flux affects the probe sheath behavior, typically α > 1.

Retinal Imaging Techniques for Diabetic Retinopathy Screening

PubMed Central

Goh, James Kang Hao; Cheung, Carol Y.; Sim, Shaun Sebastian; Tan, Pok Chien; Tan, Gavin Siew Wei; Wong, Tien Yin

2016-01-01

Due to the increasing prevalence of diabetes mellitus, demand for diabetic retinopathy (DR) screening platforms is steeply increasing. Early detection and treatment of DR are key public health interventions that can greatly reduce the likelihood of vision loss. Current DR screening programs typically employ retinal fundus photography, which relies on skilled readers for manual DR assessment. However, this is labor-intensive and suffers from inconsistency across sites. Hence, there has been a recent proliferation of automated retinal image analysis software that may potentially alleviate this burden cost-effectively. Furthermore, current screening programs based on 2-dimensional fundus photography do not effectively screen for diabetic macular edema (DME). Optical coherence tomography is becoming increasingly recognized as the reference standard for DME assessment and can potentially provide a cost-effective solution for improving DME detection in large-scale DR screening programs. Current screening techniques are also unable to image the peripheral retina and require pharmacological pupil dilation; ultra-widefield imaging and confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscopy, which address these drawbacks, possess great potential. In this review, we summarize the current DR screening methods using various retinal imaging techniques, and also outline future possibilities. Advances in retinal imaging techniques can potentially transform the management of patients with diabetes, providing savings in health care costs and resources. PMID:26830491

Retinal Imaging Techniques for Diabetic Retinopathy Screening.

PubMed

Goh, James Kang Hao; Cheung, Carol Y; Sim, Shaun Sebastian; Tan, Pok Chien; Tan, Gavin Siew Wei; Wong, Tien Yin

2016-02-01

Due to the increasing prevalence of diabetes mellitus, demand for diabetic retinopathy (DR) screening platforms is steeply increasing. Early detection and treatment of DR are key public health interventions that can greatly reduce the likelihood of vision loss. Current DR screening programs typically employ retinal fundus photography, which relies on skilled readers for manual DR assessment. However, this is labor-intensive and suffers from inconsistency across sites. Hence, there has been a recent proliferation of automated retinal image analysis software that may potentially alleviate this burden cost-effectively. Furthermore, current screening programs based on 2-dimensional fundus photography do not effectively screen for diabetic macular edema (DME). Optical coherence tomography is becoming increasingly recognized as the reference standard for DME assessment and can potentially provide a cost-effective solution for improving DME detection in large-scale DR screening programs. Current screening techniques are also unable to image the peripheral retina and require pharmacological pupil dilation; ultra-widefield imaging and confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscopy, which address these drawbacks, possess great potential. In this review, we summarize the current DR screening methods using various retinal imaging techniques, and also outline future possibilities. Advances in retinal imaging techniques can potentially transform the management of patients with diabetes, providing savings in health care costs and resources. © 2016 Diabetes Technology Society.

Developing and Evaluating RGB Composite MODIS Imagery for Applications in National Weather Service Forecast Offices

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Oswald, Hayden; Molthan, Andrew L.

2011-01-01

Satellite remote sensing has gained widespread use in the field of operational meteorology. Although raw satellite imagery is useful, several techniques exist which can convey multiple types of data in a more efficient way. One of these techniques is multispectral compositing. The NASA Short-term Prediction Research and Transition (SPoRT) Center has developed two multispectral satellite imagery products which utilize data from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) aboard NASA's Terra and Aqua satellites, based upon products currently generated and used by the European Organization for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT). The nighttime microphysics product allows users to identify clouds occurring at different altitudes, but emphasizes fog and low cloud detection. This product improves upon current spectral difference and single channel infrared techniques. Each of the current products has its own set of advantages for nocturnal fog detection, but each also has limiting drawbacks which can hamper the analysis process. The multispectral product combines each current product with a third channel difference. Since the final image is enhanced with color, it simplifies the fog identification process. Analysis has shown that the nighttime microphysics imagery product represents a substantial improvement to conventional fog detection techniques, as well as provides a preview of future satellite capabilities to forecasters.

Fault tolerant system based on IDDQ testing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guibane, Badi; Hamdi, Belgacem; Mtibaa, Abdellatif; Bensalem, Brahim

2018-06-01

Offline test is essential to ensure good manufacturing quality. However, for permanent or transient faults that occur during the use of the integrated circuit in an application, an online integrated test is needed as well. This procedure should ensure the detection and possibly the correction or the masking of these faults. This requirement of self-correction is sometimes necessary, especially in critical applications that require high security such as automotive, space or biomedical applications. We propose a fault-tolerant design for analogue and mixed-signal design complementary metal oxide (CMOS) circuits based on the quiescent current supply (IDDQ) testing. A defect can cause an increase in current consumption. IDDQ testing technique is based on the measurement of power supply current to distinguish between functional and failed circuits. The technique has been an effective testing method for detecting physical defects such as gate-oxide shorts, floating gates (open) and bridging defects in CMOS integrated circuits. An architecture called BICS (Built In Current Sensor) is used for monitoring the supply current (IDDQ) of the connected integrated circuit. If the measured current is not within the normal range, a defect is signalled and the system switches connection from the defective to a functional integrated circuit. The fault-tolerant technique is composed essentially by a double mirror built-in current sensor, allowing the detection of abnormal current consumption and blocks allowing the connection to redundant circuits, if a defect occurs. Spices simulations are performed to valid the proposed design.

Thoracoplasty-Current View on Indication and Technique.

PubMed

Kuhtin, Oleg; Veith, Marina; Alghanem, Mohammed; Martel, Ivan; Giller, Dmitrii; Haas, Viktor; Lampl, Ludwig

2018-05-17

Thoracoplasty was invented for removing cavities between thoracic wall and remnant lung or mediastinum. It was initially used in cases of tuberculosis or unspecific infections, while currently it is used mainly for space problems after lobectomy/pneumonectomy.This article presents an overview of the historical and current techniques of this surgical procedure.Nowadays, thoracoplasty is rarely performed due to the low incidence of diseases for which this method is necessary. Therefore, this method has even been discredited. Furthermore, certain technical aspects of the thoracoplasty are not very well known because of the infrequent application of this procedure.Unfortunately, a look into the literature of thoracoplasty is not always usefull due to the biased views of advocates of different techniques such as Schede's thoracoplasty, Heller's Jalousie-Plastik, Alexander's extramusculoperiosteal thoracoplasty, Bjork's osteoplastic thoracoplasty, etc.Not to forget, there has always been a lack of research on the relevance and on the several techniques of thoracoplasty.The point is precise indication and correct execution of thoracoplasty as a final therapeutic option, which allows a safe and definitive solution of the space problem even in complex cases, without creating serious functional and cosmetic impairment for the patient.The main types of thoracoplasty are described in this article. Although the core principle of this operation remains unchanged, modern techniques are often cosmetically more considerable and less destructive, compared with techniques that were used in the past. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Increasing accuracy in the assessment of motion sickness: A construct methodology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stout, Cynthia S.; Cowings, Patricia S.

1993-01-01

The purpose is to introduce a new methodology that should improve the accuracy of the assessment of motion sickness. This construct methodology utilizes both subjective reports of motion sickness and objective measures of physiological correlates to assess motion sickness. Current techniques and methods used in the framework of a construct methodology are inadequate. Current assessment techniques for diagnosing motion sickness and space motion sickness are reviewed, and attention is called to the problems with the current methods. Further, principles of psychophysiology that when applied will probably resolve some of these problems are described in detail.

Development of Eddy Current Techniques for Detection of Deep Fatigue Cracks in Multi-Layer Airframe Components

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wincheski, Russell A.

2008-01-01

Thick, multi-layer aluminum structure has been widely used in aircraft design in critical wing splice areas. The multi-layer structure generally consists of three or four aluminum layers with different geometry and varying thickness, which are held together with fasteners. The detection of cracks under fasteners with ultrasonic techniques in subsurface layers away from the skin is impeded primarily by interlayer bonds and faying sealant condition. Further, assessment of such sealant condition is extremely challenging in terms of complexity of structure, limited access, and inspection cost. Although Eddy current techniques can be applied on in-service aircraft from the exterior of the skin without knowing sealant condition, the current eddy current techniques are not able to detect defects with wanted sensitivity. In this work a series of low frequency eddy current probes have been designed, fabricated and tested for this application. A probe design incorporating a shielded magnetic field sensor concentrically located in the interior of a drive coil has been employed to enable a localized deep diffusion of the electromagnetic field into the part under test. Due to the required low frequency inspections, probes have been testing using a variety of magnetic field sensors (pickup coil, giant magneto-resistive, anisotropic magneto-resistive, and spin-dependent tunneling). The probe designs as well as capabilities based upon a target inspection for sub-layer cracking in an airframe wing spar joint is presented.

A Survey of Civilian Food Service Management Training Programs

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-12-01

techniques currently used withlcthe food and beverage industry . The data will be analysed to indicate the most popular techniques which could possibly...within the food and beverage industry . The data will be analyzed to indicate the most popular techniques which could possibly be implemented into the

Current Events and the International Relations Curriculum: Instructional Strategies.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chernotsky, Harry I.

One of the most significant challenges confronting college instructors who teach international politics survey courses is the coverage of current events issues and how to stimulate student interest about the issues. This paper describes two techniques, a current events sweepstakes and a Great Decisions roundtable, designed to infuse current events…

Detection of proteolytic activity by covalent tethering of fluorogenic substrates in zymogram gels.

PubMed

Deshmukh, Ameya A; Weist, Jessica L; Leight, Jennifer L

2018-05-01

Current zymographic techniques detect only a subset of known proteases due to the limited number of native proteins that have been optimized for incorporation into polyacrylamide gels. To address this limitation, we have developed a technique to covalently incorporate fluorescently labeled, protease-sensitive peptides using an azido-PEG3-maleimide crosslinker. Peptides incorporated into gels enabled measurement of MMP-2, -9, -14, and bacterial collagenase. Sensitivity analysis demonstrated that use of peptide functionalized gels could surpass detection limits of current techniques. Finally, electrophoresis of conditioned media from cultured cells resulted in the appearance of several proteolytic bands, some of which were undetectable by gelatin zymography. Taken together, these results demonstrate that covalent incorporation of fluorescent substrates can greatly expand the library of detectable proteases using zymographic techniques.

[Current status of neurostimulation and neuromodulation for vesicourethral dysfunction].

PubMed

González-Chamorro, F; Verdú Tartajo, F; Hernández Fernández, C

1997-01-01

To describe the current indications, techniques and results of sacral root stimulation in patients with spinal cord lesions as a treatment for patients with high pressure bladders and/or urinary incontinence despite conservative management, as well as sacral root neuromodulation with permanent stimulators for complex bladder dysfunction: vesical instability, sensory urgency, chronic pelvic pain and chronic voiding dysfunction. The literature is reviewed, both techniques are described and the results of the most significant series are discussed, with special reference to the first groups that utilized these techniques. There is ample experience in the application of sacral root electrical stimulation. The reported results are comparable with those achieved by other treatments, such as augmentation cystoplasty. Neurostimulation and neuromodulation techniques are simple, the complications are minimal and they do not prelude the use of other therapies.

Current Management of Urethral Stricture

PubMed Central

Lee, Young Ju

2013-01-01

The surgical treatment of urethral stricture diseases is continually evolving. Although various surgical techniques are available for the treatment of anterior urethral stricture, no one technique has been identified as the method of choice. This article provides a brief updated review of the surgical options for the management of different sites and different types of anterior urethral stricture. This review also covers present controversies in urethral reconstruction. Among the various procedures available for treating urethral stricture, one-stage buccal mucosal graft urethroplasty is currently widely used. The choice of technique for urethroplasty for an individual case largely depends on the expertise of the surgeon. Therefore, urologists working in this field should keep themselves updated on the numerous surgical techniques to deal with any condition of the urethra that might surface at the time of surgery. PMID:24044088

Non-invasive current and voltage imaging techniques for integrated circuits using scanning probe microscopy. Final report, LDRD Project FY93 and FY94

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

Campbell, A.N.; Cole, E.I. Jr.; Tangyunyong, Paiboon

This report describes the first practical, non-invasive technique for detecting and imaging currents internal to operating integrated circuits (ICs). This technique is based on magnetic force microscopy and was developed under Sandia National Laboratories` LDRD (Laboratory Directed Research and Development) program during FY 93 and FY 94. LDRD funds were also used to explore a related technique, charge force microscopy, for voltage probing of ICs. This report describes the technical work performed under this LDRD as well as the outcomes of the project in terms of publications and awards, intellectual property and licensing, synergistic work, potential future work, hiring ofmore » additional permanent staff, and benefits to DOE`s defense programs (DP).« less

Contemporary behavior management techniques in clinical pediatric dentistry: out with the old and in with the new?

PubMed

Oliver, Kelly; Manton, David John

2015-01-01

Effective behavior management guides children through the complex social context of dentistry utilizing techniques based on a current understanding of the social, emotional, and cognitive development of children. Behavior management techniques facilitate effective communication and establish social and behavioral guidelines for the dental environment. Contemporary parenting styles, expectations, and attitudes of modern parents and society have influenced the use of behavior management techniques with a prevailing emphasis on communicative techniques and pharmacological management over aversive techniques.

Improved reconstruction and sensing techniques for personnel screening in three-dimensional cylindrical millimeter-wave portal scanning

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

Fernandes, Justin L.; Rappaport, Carey M.; Sheen, David M.

2011-05-01

The cylindrical millimeter-wave imaging technique, developed at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) and commercialized by L-3 Communications/Safeview in the ProVision system, is currently being deployed in airports and other high security locations to meet person-borne weapon and explosive detection requirements. While this system is efficient and effective in its current form, there are a number of areas in which the detection performance may be improved through using different reconstruction algorithms and sensing configurations. PNNL and Northeastern University have teamed together to investigate higher-order imaging artifacts produced by the current cylindrical millimeter-wave imaging technique using full-wave forward modeling and laboratory experimentation.more » Based on imaging results and scattered field visualizations using the full-wave forward model, a new imaging system is proposed. The new system combines a multistatic sensor configuration with the generalized synthetic aperture focusing technique (GSAFT). Initial results show an improved ability to image in areas of the body where target shading, specular and higher-order reflections cause images produced by the monostatic system difficult to interpret.« less

Development of a particle-trap preconcentration-soft ionization mass spectrometric technique for the quantification of mercury halides in air.

PubMed

Deeds, Daniel A; Ghoshdastidar, Avik; Raofie, Farhad; Guérette, Élise-Andrée; Tessier, Alain; Ariya, Parisa A

2015-01-01

Measurement of oxidized mercury, Hg(II), in the atmosphere poses a significant analytical challenge as Hg(II) is present at ultra-trace concentrations (picograms per cubic meter air). Current technologies are sufficiently sensitive to measure the total Hg present as Hg(II) but cannot determine the chemical speciation of Hg(II). We detail here the development of a soft ionization mass spectrometric technique coupled with preconcentration onto nano- or microparticle-based traps prior to analysis for the measurement of mercury halides in air. The current methodology has comparable detection limits (4-11 pg m(-3)) to previously developed techniques for the measurement of total inorganic mercury in air while allowing for the identification of HgX2 in collected samples. Both mercury chloride and mercury bromide have been sporadically detected in Montreal urban and indoor air using atmospheric pressure chemical ionization-mass spectrometry (APCI-MS). We discuss limitations and advantages of the current technique and discuss potential avenues for future research including quantitative trace measurements of a larger range of mercury compounds.

Overview of Serological Techniques for Influenza Vaccine Evaluation: Past, Present and Future

PubMed Central

Trombetta, Claudia Maria; Perini, Daniele; Mather, Stuart; Temperton, Nigel; Montomoli, Emanuele

2014-01-01

Serological techniques commonly used to quantify influenza-specific antibodies include the Haemagglutination Inhibition (HI), Single Radial Haemolysis (SRH) and Virus Neutralization (VN) assays. HI and SRH are established and reproducible techniques, whereas VN is more demanding. Every new influenza vaccine needs to fulfil the strict criteria issued by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) in order to be licensed. These criteria currently apply exclusively to SRH and HI assays and refer to two different target groups—healthy adults and the elderly, but other vaccine recipient age groups have not been considered (i.e., children). The purpose of this timely review is to highlight the current scenario on correlates of protection concerning influenza vaccines and underline the need to revise the criteria and assays currently in use. In addition to SRH and HI assays, the technical advantages provided by other techniques such as the VN assay, pseudotype-based neutralization assay, neuraminidase and cell-mediated immunity assays need to be considered and regulated via EMA criteria, considering the many significant advantages that they could offer for the development of effective vaccines. PMID:26344888

Homodyne detection of ferromagnetic resonance by a non-uniform radio-frequency excitation current

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ikebuchi, Tetsuya; Moriyama, Takahiro; Shiota, Yoichi; Ono, Teruo

2018-05-01

Ferromagnetic resonance (FMR) is one of the most popular techniques to characterize dynamic properties of ferromagnetic materials. Among various FMR measurement techniques, the homodyne FMR detection has been frequently used to characterize thin-film ferromagnetic multilayers owing to its high sensitivity. However, a drawback of this technique was considered to be the requirement for a structural inversion asymmetry, which makes it unsuitable to characterize a single layer of ferromagnet. In this study, we demonstrate a homodyne FMR detection of the Kittel’s mode FMR dynamics of a single layer of FeNi by creating a non-uniform radio-frequency excitation current.

Therapeutic Efficacy of Neurostimulation for Depression: Techniques, Current Modalities, and Future Challenges.

PubMed

Akhtar, Hafsah; Bukhari, Faiza; Nazir, Misbah; Anwar, Muhammad Nabeel; Shahzad, Adeeb

2016-02-01

Depression is the most prevalent debilitating mental illness; it is characterized as a disorder of mood, cognitive function, and neurovegetative function. About one in ten individuals experience depression at some stage of their lives. Antidepressant drugs are used to reduce the symptoms but relapse occurs in ~20% of patients. However, alternate therapies like brain stimulation techniques have shown promising results in this regard. This review covers the brain stimulation techniques electroconvulsive therapy, transcranial direct current stimulation, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, vagus nerve stimulation, and deep brain stimulation, which are used as alternatives to antidepressant drugs, and elucidates their research and clinical outcomes.

Mitigation of eddy current heating during magnetic nanoparticle hyperthermia therapy.

PubMed

Stigliano, Robert V; Shubitidze, Fridon; Petryk, James D; Shoshiashvili, Levan; Petryk, Alicia A; Hoopes, P Jack

2016-11-01

Magnetic nanoparticle hyperthermia therapy is a promising technology for cancer treatment, involving delivering magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) into tumours then activating them using an alternating magnetic field (AMF). The system produces not only a magnetic field, but also an electric field which penetrates normal tissue and induces eddy currents, resulting in unwanted heating of normal tissues. Magnitude of the eddy current depends, in part, on the AMF source and the size of the tissue exposed to the field. The majority of in vivo MNP hyperthermia therapy studies have been performed in small animals, which, due to the spatial distribution of the AMF relative to the size of the animals, do not reveal the potential toxicity of eddy current heating in larger tissues. This has posed a non-trivial challenge for researchers attempting to scale up to clinically relevant volumes of tissue. There is a relative dearth of studies focused on decreasing the maximum temperature resulting from eddy current heating to increase therapeutic ratio. This paper presents two simple, clinically applicable techniques for decreasing maximum temperature induced by eddy currents. Computational and experimental results are presented to understand the underlying physics of eddy currents induced in conducting, biological tissues and leverage these insights to mitigate eddy current heating during MNP hyperthermia therapy. Phantom studies show that the displacement and motion techniques reduce maximum temperature due to eddy currents by 74% and 19% in simulation, and by 77% and 33% experimentally. Further study is required to optimise these methods for particular scenarios; however, these results suggest larger volumes of tissue could be treated, and/or higher field strengths and frequencies could be used to attain increased MNP heating when these eddy current mitigation techniques are employed.

An overview of the development of remote sensing techniques for the screwworm eradication program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barnes, C. M.; Forsberg, F. C.

1975-01-01

The current status of remote sensing techniques developed for the screwworm eradication program of the Mexican-American Screwworm Eradication Commission was reported. A review of the type of data and equipment used in the program is presented. Future applications of remote sensing techniques are considered.

Grafting Technique to Eliminate Rootstock Suckering of Grafted Tomatoes

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Vegetable grafting has been proposed as a technique for avoiding disease problems in tomatoes in open field production. In this study we investigated the current use of grafting in an open field scenario and found a serious problem with the grafting techniques. In the Fall of 2007, commercially pr...

Extended Techniques in Trumpet Performance and Pedagogy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cherry, Amy K.

2009-01-01

The impetus for this study was the question of whether extended techniques are actually being taught in college trumpet studio settings as standard skills necessary on the instrument. The specific purposes of this document included: (1) catalogue the extended techniques available to today's trumpet performer, (2) reflect on their current use and…

Volumetric modulated arc therapy: a review of current literature and clinical use in practice

PubMed Central

Teoh, M; Clark, C H; Wood, K; Whitaker, S; Nisbet, A

2011-01-01

Volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) is a novel radiation technique, which can achieve highly conformal dose distributions with improved target volume coverage and sparing of normal tissues compared with conventional radiotherapy techniques. VMAT also has the potential to offer additional advantages, such as reduced treatment delivery time compared with conventional static field intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT). The clinical worldwide use of VMAT is increasing significantly. Currently the majority of published data on VMAT are limited to planning and feasibility studies, although there is emerging clinical outcome data in several tumour sites. This article aims to discuss the current use of VMAT techniques in practice and review the available data from planning and clinical outcome studies in various tumour sites including prostate, pelvis (lower gastrointestinal, gynaecological), head and neck, thoracic, central nervous system, breast and other tumour sites. PMID:22011829

An efficient technique for the numerical solution of the bidomain equations.

PubMed

Whiteley, Jonathan P

2008-08-01

Computing the numerical solution of the bidomain equations is widely accepted to be a significant computational challenge. In this study we extend a previously published semi-implicit numerical scheme with good stability properties that has been used to solve the bidomain equations (Whiteley, J.P. IEEE Trans. Biomed. Eng. 53:2139-2147, 2006). A new, efficient numerical scheme is developed which utilizes the observation that the only component of the ionic current that must be calculated on a fine spatial mesh and updated frequently is the fast sodium current. Other components of the ionic current may be calculated on a coarser mesh and updated less frequently, and then interpolated onto the finer mesh. Use of this technique to calculate the transmembrane potential and extracellular potential induces very little error in the solution. For the simulations presented in this study an increase in computational efficiency of over two orders of magnitude over standard numerical techniques is obtained.

New GMO regulations for old: Determining a new future for EU crop biotechnology

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

ABSTRACT In this review, current EU GMO regulations are subjected to a point-by point analysis to determine their suitability for agriculture in modern Europe. Our analysis concerns present GMO regulations as well as suggestions for possible new regulations for genome editing and New Breeding Techniques (for which no regulations presently exist). Firstly, the present GMO regulations stem from the early days of recombinant DNA and are not adapted to current scientific understanding on this subject. Scientific understanding of GMOs has changed and these regulations are now, not only unfit for their original purpose, but, the purpose itself is now no longer scientifically valid. Indeed, they defy scientific, economic, and even common, sense. A major EU regulatory preconception is that GM crops are basically different from their parent crops. Thus, the EU regulations are “process based” regulations that discriminate against GMOs simply because they are GMOs. However current scientific evidence shows a blending of classical crops and their GMO counterparts with no clear demarcation line between them. Canada has a “product based” approach and determines the safety of each new crop variety independently of the process used to obtain it. We advise that the EC re-writes it outdated regulations and moves toward such a product based approach.  Secondly, over the last few years new genomic editing techniques (sometimes called New Breeding Techniques) have evolved. These techniques are basically mutagenesis techniques that can generate genomic diversity and have vast potential for crop improvement. They are not GMO based techniques (any more than mutagenesis is a GMO technique), since in many cases no new DNA is introduced. Thus they cannot simply be lumped together with GMOs (as many anti-GMO NGOs would prefer). The EU currently has no regulations to cover these new techniques. In this review, we make suggestions as to how these new gene edited crops may be regulated. The EU is at a turning point where the wrong decision could destroy European agricultural competitively for decades to come. PMID:28278120

Automatic exposure control systems designed to maintain constant image noise: effects on computed tomography dose and noise relative to clinically accepted technique charts.

PubMed

Favazza, Christopher P; Yu, Lifeng; Leng, Shuai; Kofler, James M; McCollough, Cynthia H

2015-01-01

To compare computed tomography dose and noise arising from use of an automatic exposure control (AEC) system designed to maintain constant image noise as patient size varies with clinically accepted technique charts and AEC systems designed to vary image noise. A model was developed to describe tube current modulation as a function of patient thickness. Relative dose and noise values were calculated as patient width varied for AEC settings designed to yield constant or variable noise levels and were compared to empirically derived values used by our clinical practice. Phantom experiments were performed in which tube current was measured as a function of thickness using a constant-noise-based AEC system and the results were compared with clinical technique charts. For 12-, 20-, 28-, 44-, and 50-cm patient widths, the requirement of constant noise across patient size yielded relative doses of 5%, 14%, 38%, 260%, and 549% and relative noises of 435%, 267%, 163%, 61%, and 42%, respectively, as compared with our clinically used technique chart settings at each respective width. Experimental measurements showed that a constant noise-based AEC system yielded 175% relative noise for a 30-cm phantom and 206% relative dose for a 40-cm phantom compared with our clinical technique chart. Automatic exposure control systems that prescribe constant noise as patient size varies can yield excessive noise in small patients and excessive dose in obese patients compared with clinically accepted technique charts. Use of noise-level technique charts and tube current limits can mitigate these effects.

Estimation of plasma ion saturation current and reduced tip arcing using Langmuir probe harmonics.

PubMed

Boedo, J A; Rudakov, D L

2017-03-01

We present a method to calculate the ion saturation current, I sat , for Langmuir probes at high frequency (>100 kHz) using the harmonics technique and we compare that to a direct measurement of I sat . It is noted that the I sat estimation can be made directly by the ratio of harmonic amplitudes, without explicitly calculating T e . We also demonstrate that since the probe tips using the harmonic method are oscillating near the floating potential, drawing little power, this method reduces tip heating and arcing and allows plasma density measurements at a plasma power flux that would cause continuously biased tips to arc. A multi-probe array is used, with two spatially separated tips employing the harmonics technique and measuring the amplitude of at least two harmonics per tip. A third tip, located between the other two, measures the ion saturation current directly. We compare the measured and calculated ion saturation currents for a variety of plasma conditions and demonstrate the validity of the technique and its use in reducing arcs.

Estimation of plasma ion saturation current and reduced tip arcing using Langmuir probe harmonics

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

Boedo, J. A.; Rudakov, D. L.

Here we present a method to calculate the ion saturation current, I sat, for Langmuir probes at high frequency (>100 kHz) using the harmonics technique and we compare that to a direct measurement of I sat. It is noted that the Isat estimation can be made directly by the ratio of harmonic amplitudes, without explicitly calculating T e. We also demonstrate that since the probe tips using the harmonic method are oscillating near the floating potential, drawing little power, this method reduces tip heating and arcing and allows plasma density measurements at a plasma power flux that would cause continuouslymore » biased tips to arc. A multi-probe array is used, with two spatially separated tips employing the harmonics technique and measuring the amplitude of at least two harmonics per tip. A third tip, located between the other two, measures the ion saturation current directly. We compare the measured and calculated ion saturation currents for a variety of plasma conditions and demonstrate the validity of the technique and it’s use in reducing arcs.« less

Estimation of plasma ion saturation current and reduced tip arcing using Langmuir probe harmonics

DOE PAGES

Boedo, J. A.; Rudakov, D. L.

2017-03-20

Here we present a method to calculate the ion saturation current, I sat, for Langmuir probes at high frequency (>100 kHz) using the harmonics technique and we compare that to a direct measurement of I sat. It is noted that the Isat estimation can be made directly by the ratio of harmonic amplitudes, without explicitly calculating T e. We also demonstrate that since the probe tips using the harmonic method are oscillating near the floating potential, drawing little power, this method reduces tip heating and arcing and allows plasma density measurements at a plasma power flux that would cause continuouslymore » biased tips to arc. A multi-probe array is used, with two spatially separated tips employing the harmonics technique and measuring the amplitude of at least two harmonics per tip. A third tip, located between the other two, measures the ion saturation current directly. We compare the measured and calculated ion saturation currents for a variety of plasma conditions and demonstrate the validity of the technique and it’s use in reducing arcs.« less

Application of Eddy Current Techniques for Orbiter Reinforced Carbon-Carbon Structural Health Monitoring

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wincheski, Buzz; Simpson, John

2005-01-01

The development and application of advanced nondestructive evaluation techniques for the Reinforced Carbon-Carbon (RCC) components of the Space Shuttle Orbiter Leading Edge Structural Subsystem (LESS) was identified as a crucial step toward returning the shuttle fleet to service. In order to help meet this requirement, eddy current techniques have been developed for application to RCC components. Eddy current technology has been found to be particularly useful for measuring the protective coating thickness over the reinforced carbon-carbon and for the identification of near surface cracking and voids in the RCC matrix. Testing has been performed on as manufactured and flown RCC components with both actual and fabricated defects representing impact and oxidation damage. Encouraging initial results have led to the development of two separate eddy current systems for in-situ RCC inspections in the orbiter processing facility. Each of these systems has undergone blind validation testing on a full scale leading edge panel, and recently transitioned to Kennedy Space Center to be applied as a part of a comprehensive RCC inspection strategy to be performed in the orbiter processing facility after each shuttle flight.

Mobile multiple access study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1977-01-01

Multiple access techniques (FDMA, CDMA, TDMA) for the mobile user and attempts to identify the current best technique are discussed. Traffic loading is considered as well as voice and data modulation and spacecraft and system design. Emphasis is placed on developing mobile terminal cost estimates for the selected design. In addition, design examples are presented for the alternative techniques of multiple access in order to compare with the selected technique.

Measurement Techniques of the Magneto-Electric Coupling in Multiferroics

PubMed Central

Fetisov, Y. K.; Caruntu, G.; Srinivasan, G.

2017-01-01

The current surge of interest in multiferroic materials demands specialized measurement techniques to support multiferroics research. In this review article we detail well-established measurement techniques of the magneto-electric coupling coefficient in multiferroic materials, together with newly proposed ones. This work is intended to serve as a reference document for anyone willing to develop experimental measurement techniques of multiferroic materials. PMID:28817089

Myocardial blood flow: Roentgen videodensitometry techniques

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, H. C.; Robb, R. A.; Wood, E. H.

1975-01-01

The current status of roentgen videodensitometric techniques that provide an objective assessment of blood flow at selected sites within the coronary circulation were described. Roentgen videodensitometry employs conventional radiopaque indicators, radiological equipment and coronary angiographic techniques. Roentgen videodensitometry techniques developed in the laboratory during the past nine years, and for the past three years were applied to analysis of angiograms in the clinical cardiac catheterization laboratory.

Visualizing Simulated Electrical Fields from Electroencephalography and Transcranial Electric Brain Stimulation: A Comparative Evaluation

PubMed Central

Eichelbaum, Sebastian; Dannhauer, Moritz; Hlawitschka, Mario; Brooks, Dana; Knösche, Thomas R.; Scheuermann, Gerik

2014-01-01

Electrical activity of neuronal populations is a crucial aspect of brain activity. This activity is not measured directly but recorded as electrical potential changes using head surface electrodes (electroencephalogram - EEG). Head surface electrodes can also be deployed to inject electrical currents in order to modulate brain activity (transcranial electric stimulation techniques) for therapeutic and neuroscientific purposes. In electroencephalography and noninvasive electric brain stimulation, electrical fields mediate between electrical signal sources and regions of interest (ROI). These fields can be very complicated in structure, and are influenced in a complex way by the conductivity profile of the human head. Visualization techniques play a central role to grasp the nature of those fields because such techniques allow for an effective conveyance of complex data and enable quick qualitative and quantitative assessments. The examination of volume conduction effects of particular head model parameterizations (e.g., skull thickness and layering), of brain anomalies (e.g., holes in the skull, tumors), location and extent of active brain areas (e.g., high concentrations of current densities) and around current injecting electrodes can be investigated using visualization. Here, we evaluate a number of widely used visualization techniques, based on either the potential distribution or on the current-flow. In particular, we focus on the extractability of quantitative and qualitative information from the obtained images, their effective integration of anatomical context information, and their interaction. We present illustrative examples from clinically and neuroscientifically relevant cases and discuss the pros and cons of the various visualization techniques. PMID:24821532

Currents and fields of thin conductors in rf saddle coils.

PubMed

Carlson, J W

1986-10-01

The current distribution on thin conductors and rf field homogeneity for rf coils is described theoretically. After a pedagogical introduction to the techniques and an exact solution for the current or an isolated strip conductor, this article describes current distribution and field uniformity for a variety of conventional and quadrature rf coil designs.

Study of eddy current probes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Workman, Gary L.; Wang, Morgan

1992-01-01

The recognition of materials properties still presents a number of problems for nondestructive testing in aerospace systems. This project attempts to utilize current capabilities in eddy current instrumentation, artificial intelligence, and robotics in order to provide insight into defining geometrical aspects of flaws in composite materials which are capable of being evaluated using eddy current inspection techniques.

A portable meter for measuring low frequency currents in the human body.

PubMed

Niple, J C; Daigle, J P; Zaffanella, L E; Sullivan, T; Kavet, R

2004-07-01

A portable meter has been developed for measuring low frequency currents that flow in the human body. Although the present version of the meter was specifically designed to measure 50/60 Hz "contact currents," the principles involved can be used with other low frequency body currents. Contact currents flow when the human body provides a conductive path between objects in the environment with different electrical potentials. The range of currents the meter detects is approximately 0.4-800 microA. This provides measurements of currents from the threshold of human perception (approximately 500 microA(RMS)) down to single microampere levels. The meter has a unique design, which utilizes the human subject's body impedance as the sensing element. Some of the advantages of this approach are high sensitivity, the ability to measure current flow in the majority of the body, and relative insensitivity to the current path connection points. Current measurement accuracy varies with the accuracy of the body impedance (resistance) measurement and different techniques can be used to obtain a desired level of accuracy. Techniques are available to achieve an estimated +/-20% accuracy. Copyright 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Estimating pixel variances in the scenes of staring sensors

DOEpatents

Simonson, Katherine M [Cedar Crest, NM; Ma, Tian J [Albuquerque, NM

2012-01-24

A technique for detecting changes in a scene perceived by a staring sensor is disclosed. The technique includes acquiring a reference image frame and a current image frame of a scene with the staring sensor. A raw difference frame is generated based upon differences between the reference image frame and the current image frame. Pixel error estimates are generated for each pixel in the raw difference frame based at least in part upon spatial error estimates related to spatial intensity gradients in the scene. The pixel error estimates are used to mitigate effects of camera jitter in the scene between the current image frame and the reference image frame.

Antimatter Production at a Potential Boundary

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

LaPointe, Michael R.; Reddy, Dhanireddy (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

Current antiproton production techniques rely on high-energy collisions between beam particles and target nuclei to produce particle and antiparticle pairs, but inherently low production and capture efficiencies render these techniques impractical for the cost-effective production of antimatter for space propulsion and other commercial applications. Based on Dirac's theory of the vacuum field, a new antimatter production concept is proposed in which particle-antiparticle pairs are created at the boundary of a steep potential step formed by the suppression of the local vacuum fields. Current antimatter production techniques are reviewed, followed by a description of Dirac's relativistic quantum theory of the vacuum state and corresponding solutions for particle tunneling and reflection from a potential barrier. The use of the Casimir effect to suppress local vacuum fields is presented as a possible technique for generating the sharp potential gradients required for particle-antiparticle pair creation.

Control of plasma process by use of harmonic frequency components of voltage and current

DOEpatents

Miller, Paul A.; Kamon, Mattan

1994-01-01

The present invention provides for a technique for taking advantage of the intrinsic electrical non-linearity of processing plasmas to add additional control variables that affect process performance. The technique provides for the adjustment of the electrical coupling circuitry, as well as the electrical excitation level, in response to measurements of the reactor voltage and current and to use that capability to modify the plasma characteristics to obtain the desired performance.

Experimental quantification of the true efficiency of carbon nanotube thin-film thermophones.

PubMed

Bouman, Troy M; Barnard, Andrew R; Asgarisabet, Mahsa

2016-03-01

Carbon nanotube thermophones can create acoustic waves from 1 Hz to 100 kHz. The thermoacoustic effect that allows for this non-vibrating sound source is naturally inefficient. Prior efforts have not explored their true efficiency (i.e., the ratio of the total acoustic power to the electrical input power). All previous works have used the ratio of sound pressure to input electrical power. A method for true power efficiency measurement is shown using a fully anechoic technique. True efficiency data are presented for three different drive signal processing techniques: standard alternating current (AC), direct current added to alternating current (DCAC), and amplitude modulation of an alternating current (AMAC) signal. These signal processing techniques are needed to limit the frequency doubling non-linear effects inherent to carbon nanotube thermophones. Each type of processing affects the true efficiency differently. Using a 72 W(rms) input signal, the measured efficiency ranges were 4.3 × 10(-6) - 319 × 10(-6), 1.7 × 10(-6) - 308 × 10(-6), and 1.2 × 10(-6) - 228 × 10(-6)% for AC, DCAC, and AMAC, respectively. These data were measured in the frequency range of 100 Hz to 10 kHz. In addition, the effects of these processing techniques relative to sound quality are presented in terms of total harmonic distortion.

Advanced crystal growth techniques for thallium bromide semiconductor radiation detectors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Datta, Amlan; Becla, Piotr; Guguschev, Christo; Motakef, Shariar

2018-02-01

Thallium Bromide (TlBr) is a promising room-temperature radiation detector candidate with excellent charge transport properties. Currently, Travelling Molten Zone (TMZ) technique is widely used for growth of semiconductor-grade TlBr crystals. However, there are several challenges associated with this type of crystal growth process including lower yield, high thermal stress, and low crystal uniformity. To overcome these shortcomings of the current technique, several different crystal growth techniques have been implemented in this study. These include: Vertical Bridgman (VB), Physical Vapor Transport (PVT), Edge-defined Film-fed Growth (EFG), and Czochralski Growth (Cz). Techniques based on melt pulling (EFG and Cz) were demonstrated for the first time for semiconductor grade TlBr material. The viability of each process along with the associated challenges for TlBr growth has been discussed. The purity of the TlBr crystals along with its crystalline and electronic properties were analyzed and correlated with the growth techniques. Uncorrected 662 keV energy resolutions around 2% were obtained from 5 mm x 5 mm x 10 mm TlBr devices with virtual Frisch-grid configuration.

Cerebral blood flow and autoregulation: current measurement techniques and prospects for noninvasive optical methods

PubMed Central

Fantini, Sergio; Sassaroli, Angelo; Tgavalekos, Kristen T.; Kornbluth, Joshua

2016-01-01

Abstract. Cerebral blood flow (CBF) and cerebral autoregulation (CA) are critically important to maintain proper brain perfusion and supply the brain with the necessary oxygen and energy substrates. Adequate brain perfusion is required to support normal brain function, to achieve successful aging, and to navigate acute and chronic medical conditions. We review the general principles of CBF measurements and the current techniques to measure CBF based on direct intravascular measurements, nuclear medicine, X-ray imaging, magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound techniques, thermal diffusion, and optical methods. We also review techniques for arterial blood pressure measurements as well as theoretical and experimental methods for the assessment of CA, including recent approaches based on optical techniques. The assessment of cerebral perfusion in the clinical practice is also presented. The comprehensive description of principles, methods, and clinical requirements of CBF and CA measurements highlights the potentially important role that noninvasive optical methods can play in the assessment of neurovascular health. In fact, optical techniques have the ability to provide a noninvasive, quantitative, and continuous monitor of CBF and autoregulation. PMID:27403447

Quantification of moving target cyber defenses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Farris, Katheryn A.; Cybenko, George

2015-05-01

Current network and information systems are static, making it simple for attackers to maintain an advantage. Adaptive defenses, such as Moving Target Defenses (MTD) have been developed as potential "game-changers" in an effort to increase the attacker's workload. With many new methods being developed, it is difficult to accurately quantify and compare their overall costs and effectiveness. This paper compares the tradeoffs between current approaches to the quantification of MTDs. We present results from an expert opinion survey on quantifying the overall effectiveness, upfront and operating costs of a select set of MTD techniques. We find that gathering informed scientific opinions can be advantageous for evaluating such new technologies as it offers a more comprehensive assessment. We end by presenting a coarse ordering of a set of MTD techniques from most to least dominant. We found that seven out of 23 methods rank as the more dominant techniques. Five of which are techniques of either address space layout randomization or instruction set randomization. The remaining two techniques are applicable to software and computer platforms. Among the techniques that performed the worst are those primarily aimed at network randomization.

Interventional radiology in bone metastases.

PubMed

Chiras, J; Shotar, E; Cormier, E; Clarençon, F

2017-11-01

Interventional radiology plays a significant role in the treatment of bone metastases by various techniques, percutaneous or endovascular. Vertebroplasty is the most well-studied technique for stabilisation of spine metastases as it induces satisfactory stabilisation of the vertebra and offers clear improvement of the quality of life. Due to the success of this technique cementoplasty of other bones, mainly pelvic girdle, has been largely developed. The development of reinforced cementoplasty allows treatment of pre-fractural osteolysis of some long bones. The heat due to the polymerisation of the cement induces carcinolytic effect but this effect is not as important as that which results from radiofrequency destruction. This last technique appears currently as the most important development to definitively destroy bone metastases and is progressively replacing percutaneous alcoholic destruction of such lesions. Angiographic techniques, such as endovascular embolisation, can also be very useful to reduce the risk of surgical treatment of hyper vascular metastases. Chemoembolisation is currently developed to associate pain relief induced by Endovascular embolisation and the carcinolytic effect obtained by local endovascular chemotherapy. All these techniques should develop largely during the next years. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

a High-Level Technique for Estimation and Optimization of Leakage Power for Full Adder

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shrivas, Jayram; Akashe, Shyam; Tiwari, Nitesh

2013-06-01

Optimization of power is a very important issue in low-voltage and low-power application. In this paper, we have proposed power gating technique to reduce leakage current and leakage power of one-bit full adder. In this power gating technique, we use two sleep transistors i.e., PMOS and NMOS. PMOS sleep transistor is inserted between power supply and pull up network. And NMOS sleep transistor is inserted between pull down network and ground terminal. These sleep transistors (PMOS and NMOS) are turned on when the circuit is working in active mode. And sleep transistors (PMOS and NMOS) are turned off when circuit is working in standby mode. We have simulated one-bit full adder and compared with the power gating technique using cadence virtuoso tool in 45 nm technology at 0.7 V at 27°C. By applying this technique, we have reduced leakage current from 2.935 pA to 1.905 pA and leakage power from 25.04μw to 9.233μw. By using this technique, we have reduced leakage power up to 63.12%.

Evaluation of three new laser spectrometer techniques for in-situ carbon monoxide measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zellweger, C.; Steinbacher, M.; Buchmann, B.

2012-07-01

Long-term time series of the atmospheric composition are essential for environmental research and thus require compatible, multi-decadal monitoring activities. However, the current data quality objectives of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) for carbon monoxide (CO) in the atmosphere are very challenging to meet with the measurement techniques that have been used until recently. During the past few years, new spectroscopic techniques came on the market with promising properties for trace gas analytics. The current study compares three instruments that are recently commercially available (since 2011) with the up to now best available technique (vacuum UV fluorescence) and provides a link to previous comparison studies. The instruments were investigated for their performance regarding repeatability, reproducibility, drift, temperature dependence, water vapour interference and linearity. Finally, all instruments were examined during a short measurement campaign to assess their applicability for long-term field measurements. It could be shown that the new techniques provide a considerably better performance compared to previous techniques, although some issues such as temperature influence and cross sensitivities need further attention.

Technique for temperature compensation of eddy-current proximity probes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Masters, Robert M.

1989-01-01

Eddy-current proximity probes are used in turbomachinery evaluation testing and operation to measure distances, primarily vibration, deflection, or displacment of shafts, bearings and seals. Measurements of steady-state conditions made with standard eddy-current proximity probes are susceptible to error caused by temperature variations during normal operation of the component under investigation. Errors resulting from temperature effects for the specific probes used in this study were approximately 1.016 x 10 to the -3 mm/deg C over the temperature range of -252 to 100 C. This report examines temperature caused changes on the eddy-current proximity probe measurement system, establishes their origin, and discusses what may be done to minimize their effect on the output signal. In addition, recommendations are made for the installation and operation of the electronic components associated with an eddy-current proximity probe. Several techniques are described that provide active on-line error compensation for over 95 percent of the temperature effects.

The application of machine learning techniques in the clinical drug therapy.

PubMed

Meng, Huan-Yu; Jin, Wan-Lin; Yan, Cheng-Kai; Yang, Huan

2018-05-25

The development of a novel drug is an extremely complicated process that includes the target identification, design and manufacture, and proper therapy of the novel drug, as well as drug dose selection, drug efficacy evaluation, and adverse drug reaction control. Due to the limited resources, high costs, long duration, and low hit-to-lead ratio in the development of pharmacogenetics and computer technology, machine learning techniques have assisted novel drug development and have gradually received more attention by researchers. According to current research, machine learning techniques are widely applied in the process of the discovery of new drugs and novel drug targets, the decision surrounding proper therapy and drug dose, and the prediction of drug efficacy and adverse drug reactions. In this article, we discussed the history, workflow, and advantages and disadvantages of machine learning techniques in the processes mentioned above. Although the advantages of machine learning techniques are fairly obvious, the application of machine learning techniques is currently limited. With further research, the application of machine techniques in drug development could be much more widespread and could potentially be one of the major methods used in drug development. Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.org.

Meditation and mindfulness in clinical practice.

PubMed

Simkin, Deborah R; Black, Nancy B

2014-07-01

This article describes the various forms of meditation and provides an overview of research using these techniques for children, adolescents, and their families. The most researched techniques in children and adolescents are mindfulness-based stress reduction, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, yoga meditation, transcendental meditation, mind-body techniques (meditation, relaxation), and body-mind techniques (yoga poses, tai chi movements). Current data are suggestive of a possible value of meditation and mindfulness techniques for treating symptomatic anxiety, depression, and pain in youth. Clinicians must be properly trained before using these techniques. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Fog dispersion. [charged particle technique

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Christensen, L. S.; Frost, W.

1980-01-01

The concept of using the charged particle technique to disperse warm fog at airports is investigated and compared with other techniques. The charged particle technique shows potential for warm fog dispersal, but experimental verification of several significant parameters, such as particle mobility and charge density, is needed. Seeding and helicopter downwash techniques are also effective for warm fog disperals, but presently are not believed to be viable techniques for routine airport operations. Thermal systems are currently used at a few overseas airports; however, they are expensive and pose potential environmental problems.

Cost/benefit trade-offs for reducing the energy consumption of commercial air transportation (RECAT)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gobetz, F. W.; Leshane, A. A.

1976-01-01

The RECAT study evaluated the opportunities for reducing the energy requirements of the U.S. domestic air passenger transport system through improved operational techniques, modified in-service aircraft, derivatives of current production models, or new aircraft using either current or advanced technology. Each of these fuel-conserving alternatives was investigated individually to test its potential for fuel conservation relative to a hypothetical baseline case in which current, in-production aircraft types are assumed to operate, without modification and with current operational techniques, into the future out to the year 2000. Consequently, while the RECAT results lend insight into the directions in which technology can best be pursued for improved air transport fuel economy, no single option studied in the RECAT program is indicative of a realistic future scenario.

Microcurrent therapeutic technique for treatment of radiation toxicity

DOEpatents

Lennox, Arlene; Funder, Sandra

2000-01-01

The present technique provides a method of remediating the toxicities associated with radiation therapy. A conductive gel is applied to the affected bodily area. A sinusoidally pulsed biphasic DC current is then applied to the affected bodily area using at least one electrode. The electrode is manipulated using active tactile manipulation by for a predetermined time and the frequency of the sinusoidally pulsed biphasic DC current is decreased during the course of the treatment. The method also includes applying a spiked pulsed biphasic DC current to the affected bodily area using at least one electrode. This electrode is also manipulated using active tactile manipulation by for a predetermined time and the frequency of the spiked pulsed biphasic DC current is also decreased during the course of the treatment.

Repair and tissue engineering techniques for articular cartilage.

PubMed

Makris, Eleftherios A; Gomoll, Andreas H; Malizos, Konstantinos N; Hu, Jerry C; Athanasiou, Kyriacos A

2015-01-01

Chondral and osteochondral lesions due to injury or other pathology commonly result in the development of osteoarthritis, eventually leading to progressive total joint destruction. Although current progress suggests that biologic agents can delay the advancement of deterioration, such drugs are incapable of promoting tissue restoration. The limited ability of articular cartilage to regenerate renders joint arthroplasty an unavoidable surgical intervention. This Review describes current, widely used clinical repair techniques for resurfacing articular cartilage defects; short-term and long-term clinical outcomes of these techniques are discussed. Also reviewed is a developmental pipeline of acellular and cellular regenerative products and techniques that could revolutionize joint care over the next decade by promoting the development of functional articular cartilage. Acellular products typically consist of collagen or hyaluronic-acid-based materials, whereas cellular techniques use either primary cells or stem cells, with or without scaffolds. Central to these efforts is the prominent role that tissue engineering has in translating biological technology into clinical products; therefore, concomitant regulatory processes are also discussed.

Towards Real Time Diagnostics of Hybrid Welding Laser/GMAW

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

Timothy Mcjunkin; Dennis C. Kunerth; Corrie Nichol

2013-07-01

Methods are currently being developed towards a more robust system real time feedback in the high throughput process combining laser welding with gas metal arc welding. A combination of ultrasonic, eddy current, electronic monitoring, and visual techniques are being applied to the welding process. Initial simulation and bench top evaluation of proposed real time techniques on weld samples are presented along with the concepts to apply the techniques concurrently to the weld process. Consideration for the eventual code acceptance of the methods and system are also being researched as a component of this project. The goal is to detect defectsmore » or precursors to defects and correct when possible during the weld process.« less

Towards real time diagnostics of Hybrid Welding Laser/GMAW

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

McJunkin, T. R.; Kunerth, D. C.; Nichol, C. I.

2014-02-18

Methods are currently being developed towards a more robust system real time feedback in the high throughput process combining laser welding with gas metal arc welding. A combination of ultrasonic, eddy current, electronic monitoring, and visual techniques are being applied to the welding process. Initial simulation and bench top evaluation of proposed real time techniques on weld samples are presented along with the concepts to apply the techniques concurrently to the weld process. Consideration for the eventual code acceptance of the methods and system are also being researched as a component of this project. The goal is to detect defectsmore » or precursors to defects and correct when possible during the weld process.« less

Towards real time diagnostics of Hybrid Welding Laser/GMAW

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McJunkin, T. R.; Kunerth, D. C.; Nichol, C. I.; Todorov, E.; Levesque, S.

2014-02-01

Methods are currently being developed towards a more robust system real time feedback in the high throughput process combining laser welding with gas metal arc welding. A combination of ultrasonic, eddy current, electronic monitoring, and visual techniques are being applied to the welding process. Initial simulation and bench top evaluation of proposed real time techniques on weld samples are presented along with the concepts to apply the techniques concurrently to the weld process. Consideration for the eventual code acceptance of the methods and system are also being researched as a component of this project. The goal is to detect defects or precursors to defects and correct when possible during the weld process.

Recanalization of Chronic Total Occlusion Lesions: A Critical Appraisal of Current Devices and Techniques

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

Chronic Total Occlusion (CTO) has been considered as one of the “final frontier” in interventional cardiology. Until recently, the patients with CTO are often managed surgically or medically due to lack of published evidence of clinical benefits and lower success rate of percutaneous recanalization of CTO. However, the introduction of enhanced guidewires, microcatheters combined with novel specialized devices and techniques reduce the number of unapproachable CTO. In this review article, current techniques and devices of percutaneous recanalization of CTO have been systematically summarized, which may help budding interventional cardiologists to theoretically understand these complex procedures and to deliver safe and effective percutaneous management of CTO to the patients. PMID:27790503

Planar techniques for fabricating X-ray diffraction gratings and zone plates

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, H. I.; Anderson, E. H.; Hawryluk, A. M.; Schattenburg, M. L.

1984-01-01

The state of current planar techniques in the fabrication of Fresnel zone plates and diffraction gratings is reviewed. Among the fabrication techniques described are multilayer resist techniques; scanning electron beam lithography; and holographic lithography. Consideration is also given to: X-ray lithography; ion beam lithography; and electroplating. SEM photographs of the undercut profiles obtained in a type AZ 135OB photoresistor by holographic lithography are provided.

Review of progress in quantitative NDE. [Nondestructive Evaluation (NDE)

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

Not Available

1991-01-01

This booklet is composed of abstracts from papers submitted at a meeting on quantitative NDE. A multitude of topics are discussed including analysis of composite materials, NMR uses, x-ray instruments and techniques, manufacturing uses, neural networks, eddy currents, stress measurements, magnetic materials, adhesive bonds, signal processing, NDE of mechanical structures, tomography,defect sizing, NDE of plastics and ceramics, new techniques, optical and electromagnetic techniques, and nonlinear techniques. (GHH)

Measuring Electrical Current: The Roads Not Taken

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Greenslade, Thomas B., Jr.

2011-01-01

Recently I wrote about the standard Weston meter movement, that is at the heart of all modern analogue current measurements. Now I will discuss other techniques used to measure electric current that, despite being based on valid physical principles, are largely lost in technological history.

Simple constant-current-regulated power supply

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Priebe, D. H. E.; Sturman, J. C.

1977-01-01

Supply incorporates soft-start circuit that slowly ramps current up to set point at turn-on. Supply consists of full-wave rectifier, regulating pass transistor, current feedback circuit, and quad single-supply operational-amplifier circuit providing control. Technique is applicable to any system requiring constant dc current, such as vacuum tube equipment, heaters, or battery charges; it has been used to supply constant current for instrument calibration.

Intelligent Structural Health Management of Civil Infrastructure

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2012-10-19

The collapse of the I-35W Mississippi River Bridge in Minneapolis has spawned a growing interest in the : development of reliable techniques for evaluating the structural integrity of civil infrastructure. Current inspection : techniques tailored to ...

An Investigation into Geography Teachers' Use of Current Events in Geography Classes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Degirmenci, Yavuz; Ilter, Ilhan

2017-01-01

This study aimed to investigate the extent to which geography teachers use current events within the context of their geography instruction, their sources of information about current events, the methods and techniques they adopt while using current events in their teaching and the skills and values they expect their students to develop. The…

Protein kinase C enhances the swelling-induced chloride current in human atrial myocytes.

PubMed

Li, Ye-Tao; Du, Xin-Ling

2016-06-01

Swelling-activated chloride currents (ICl.swell) are thought to play a role in several physiologic and pathophysiologic processes and thus represent a target for therapeutic approaches. However, the mechanism of ICl.swell regulation remains unclear. In this study, we used the whole-cell patch-clamp technique to examine the role of protein kinase C (PKC) in the regulation of ICl.swell in human atrial myocytes. Atrial myocytes were isolated from the right atrial appendages of patients undergoing coronary artery bypass and enzymatically dissociated. ICl.swell was evoked in hypotonic solution and recorded using the whole-cell patch-clamp technique. The PKC agonist phorbol dibutyrate (PDBu) enhanced ICl.swell in a concentration-dependent manner, which was reversed in isotonic solution and by a chloride current inhibitor, 9-anthracenecarboxylicacid. Furthermore, the PKC inhibitor bis-indolylmaleimide attenuated the effect and 4α-PDBu, an inactive PDBu analog, had no effect on ICl.swell. These results, obtained using the whole-cell patch-clamp technique, demonstrate the ability of PKC to activate ICl,swell in human atrial myocytes. This observation was consistent with a previous study using a single-channel patch-clamp technique, but differed from some findings in other species.

Review on Ion Mobility Spectrometry. Part 1: Current Instrumentation

PubMed Central

Cumeras, R.; Figueras, E.; Davis, C.E.; Baumbach, J.I.; Gràcia, I.

2014-01-01

Ion Mobility Spectrometry (IMS) is a widely used and ‘well-known’ technique of ion separation in gaseous phase based on the differences of ion mobilities under an electric field. All IMS instruments operate with an electric field that provides space separation, but some IMS instruments also operate with a drift gas flow which provides also a temporal separation. In this review we will summarize the current IMS instrumentation. IMS techniques have received an increased interest as new instrumentation has become available to be coupled with mass spectrometry (MS). For each of the eight types of IMS instruments reviewed it is mentioned whether they can be hyphenated with MS and whether they are commercially available. Finally, out of the described devices, the six most-consolidated ones are compared. The current review article is followed by a companion review article which details the IMS hyphenated techniques (mainly gas chromatography and mass spectrometry) and the factors that make the data from an IMS device change as function of device parameters and sampling conditions. These reviews will provide the reader with an insightful view of the main characteristics and aspects of the IMS technique. PMID:25465076

Non-Solenoidal Startup Research Directions on the Pegasus Toroidal Experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fonck, R. J.; Bongard, M. W.; Lewicki, B. T.; Reusch, J. A.; Winz, G. R.

2017-10-01

The Pegasus research program has been focused on developing a physical understanding and predictive models for non-solenoidal tokamak plasma startup using Local Helicity Injection (LHI). LHI employs strong localized electron currents injected along magnetic field lines in the plasma edge that relax through magnetic turbulence to form a tokamak-like plasma. Pending approval, the Pegasus program will address a broader, more comprehensive examination of non-solenoidal tokamak startup techniques. New capabilities may include: increasing the toroidal field to 0.6 T to support critical scaling tests to near-NSTX-U field levels; deploying internal plasma diagnostics; installing a coaxial helicity injection (CHI) capability in the upper divertor region; and deploying a modest (200-400 kW) electron cyclotron RF capability. These efforts will address scaling of relevant physics to higher BT, separate and comparative studies of helicity injection techniques, efficiency of handoff to consequent current sustainment techniques, and the use of ECH to synergistically improve the target plasma for consequent bootstrap and neutral beam current drive sustainment. This has an ultimate goal of validating techniques to produce a 1 MA target plasma in NSTX-U and beyond. Work supported by US DOE Grant DE-FG02-96ER54375.

A Reproducible Computerized Method for Quantitation of Capillary Density using Nailfold Capillaroscopy.

PubMed

Cheng, Cynthia; Lee, Chadd W; Daskalakis, Constantine

2015-10-27

Capillaroscopy is a non-invasive, efficient, relatively inexpensive and easy to learn methodology for directly visualizing the microcirculation. The capillaroscopy technique can provide insight into a patient's microvascular health, leading to a variety of potentially valuable dermatologic, ophthalmologic, rheumatologic and cardiovascular clinical applications. In addition, tumor growth may be dependent on angiogenesis, which can be quantitated by measuring microvessel density within the tumor. However, there is currently little to no standardization of techniques, and only one publication to date reports the reliability of a currently available, complex computer based algorithms for quantitating capillaroscopy data.(1) This paper describes a new, simpler, reliable, standardized capillary counting algorithm for quantitating nailfold capillaroscopy data. A simple, reproducible computerized capillaroscopy algorithm such as this would facilitate more widespread use of the technique among researchers and clinicians. Many researchers currently analyze capillaroscopy images by hand, promoting user fatigue and subjectivity of the results. This paper describes a novel, easy-to-use automated image processing algorithm in addition to a reproducible, semi-automated counting algorithm. This algorithm enables analysis of images in minutes while reducing subjectivity; only a minimal amount of training time (in our experience, less than 1 hr) is needed to learn the technique.

A Reproducible Computerized Method for Quantitation of Capillary Density using Nailfold Capillaroscopy

PubMed Central

Daskalakis, Constantine

2015-01-01

Capillaroscopy is a non-invasive, efficient, relatively inexpensive and easy to learn methodology for directly visualizing the microcirculation. The capillaroscopy technique can provide insight into a patient’s microvascular health, leading to a variety of potentially valuable dermatologic, ophthalmologic, rheumatologic and cardiovascular clinical applications. In addition, tumor growth may be dependent on angiogenesis, which can be quantitated by measuring microvessel density within the tumor. However, there is currently little to no standardization of techniques, and only one publication to date reports the reliability of a currently available, complex computer based algorithms for quantitating capillaroscopy data.1 This paper describes a new, simpler, reliable, standardized capillary counting algorithm for quantitating nailfold capillaroscopy data. A simple, reproducible computerized capillaroscopy algorithm such as this would facilitate more widespread use of the technique among researchers and clinicians. Many researchers currently analyze capillaroscopy images by hand, promoting user fatigue and subjectivity of the results. This paper describes a novel, easy-to-use automated image processing algorithm in addition to a reproducible, semi-automated counting algorithm. This algorithm enables analysis of images in minutes while reducing subjectivity; only a minimal amount of training time (in our experience, less than 1 hr) is needed to learn the technique. PMID:26554744

Development of Theoretical and Numerical Techniques for Achieving Stability in Gyrotron Traveling-Wave Amplifiers.

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-02-01

analysis methods diverge significantly. The electron current density found in Eq. 2.106 may be evaluated" as I J ...S..Y.v Yvt r t) (2.107) 0 ZO where 10...will be specified by the geometry and mode under consider- ation. It was noted earlier that the point of divergence between the two principle...techniques lies in the methods used to calculate the current density. Actually, the divergence is present only in theory. Theoreti- cally and numerically, Eq

Survey of NASA V and V Processes/Methods

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pecheur, Charles; Nelson, Stacy

2002-01-01

The purpose of this report is to describe current NASA Verification and Validation (V&V) techniques and to explain how these techniques are applicable to 2nd Generation RLV Integrated Vehicle Health Management (IVHM) software. It also contains recommendations for special V&V requirements for IVHM. This report is divided into the following three sections: 1) Survey - Current NASA V&V Processes/Methods; 2) Applicability of NASA V&V to 2nd Generation RLV IVHM; and 3) Special 2nd Generation RLV IVHM V&V Requirements.

Measurement Techniques for Clock Jitter

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lansdowne, Chatwin; Schlesinger, Adam

2012-01-01

NASA is in the process of modernizing its communications infrastructure to accompany the development of a Crew Exploration Vehicle (CEV) to replace the shuttle. With this effort comes the opportunity to infuse more advanced coded modulation techniques, including low-density parity-check (LDPC) codes that offer greater coding gains than the current capability. However, in order to take full advantage of these codes, the ground segment receiver synchronization loops must be able to operate at a lower signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) than supported by equipment currently in use.

Study of sea ice in the Sea of Okhotsk and its influence on the Oyashio current

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Watanabe, K.; Kuroda, R.; Hata, K.; Akagawa, M. (Principal Investigator)

1975-01-01

The author has identified the following significant results. Two photographic techniques were applied to Skylab S190A multispectral pictures for extracting oceanic patterns at the sea surface separately from cloud patterns. One is the image-masking technique and another a stereographic analysis. The extracted oceanic patterns were interpreted as areas where the amount, or the concentration of phytoplankton was high by utilizing surface data of water temperature, ocean current by GEK, and microplankton.

Survey of air cargo forecasting techniques

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kuhlthan, A. R.; Vermuri, R. S.

1978-01-01

Forecasting techniques currently in use in estimating or predicting the demand for air cargo in various markets are discussed with emphasis on the fundamentals of the different forecasting approaches. References to specific studies are cited when appropriate. The effectiveness of current methods is evaluated and several prospects for future activities or approaches are suggested. Appendices contain summary type analyses of about 50 specific publications on forecasting, and selected bibliographies on air cargo forecasting, air passenger demand forecasting, and general demand and modalsplit modeling.

Temperature and field dependence of critical currents in V/sub 3/Ga wire produced by the MJR technique

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

Francavilla, T.L.; Gubser, D.U.; Pande, C.S.

1985-03-01

The temperature dependence of V/sub 3/Ga multifilamentary wire produced by the modified jelly roll technique is reported as a function of applied magnetic field in the range 10K - 14K and 0-13T. Parameters which relate J /SUB c/ to H at 4.2K were found to apply at these temperatures and fields. The form of the temperature dependence of the critical current density is compared with theory.

Automatic Exposure Control Systems Designed to Maintain Constant Image Noise: Effects on Computed Tomography Dose and Noise Relative to Clinically Accepted Technique Charts

PubMed Central

Favazza, Christopher P.; Yu, Lifeng; Leng, Shuai; Kofler, James M.; McCollough, Cynthia H.

2015-01-01

Objective To compare computed tomography dose and noise arising from use of an automatic exposure control (AEC) system designed to maintain constant image noise as patient size varies with clinically accepted technique charts and AEC systems designed to vary image noise. Materials and Methods A model was developed to describe tube current modulation as a function of patient thickness. Relative dose and noise values were calculated as patient width varied for AEC settings designed to yield constant or variable noise levels and were compared to empirically derived values used by our clinical practice. Phantom experiments were performed in which tube current was measured as a function of thickness using a constant-noise-based AEC system and the results were compared with clinical technique charts. Results For 12-, 20-, 28-, 44-, and 50-cm patient widths, the requirement of constant noise across patient size yielded relative doses of 5%, 14%, 38%, 260%, and 549% and relative noises of 435%, 267%, 163%, 61%, and 42%, respectively, as compared with our clinically used technique chart settings at each respective width. Experimental measurements showed that a constant noise–based AEC system yielded 175% relative noise for a 30-cm phantom and 206% relative dose for a 40-cm phantom compared with our clinical technique chart. Conclusions Automatic exposure control systems that prescribe constant noise as patient size varies can yield excessive noise in small patients and excessive dose in obese patients compared with clinically accepted technique charts. Use of noise-level technique charts and tube current limits can mitigate these effects. PMID:25938214

Influence of DC arc current on the formation of cobalt-based nanostructures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Orpe, P. B.; Balasubramanian, C.; Mukherjee, S.

2017-08-01

The synthesis of cobalt-based magnetic nanostructures using DC arc discharge technique with varying arc current is reported here. The structural, morphological, compositional and magnetic properties of these nanostructures were studied as a function of applied arc current. Various techniques like X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, EDAX and vibrating sample magnetometry were used to carry out this study and the results are reported here. The results clearly indicate that for a given oxygen partial pressure, an arc current of 100 A favours the formation of unreacted cobalt atomic species. Also change in arc current leads to variation in phase, diversity in morphology etc. Other property changes such as thermal changes, mechanical changes etc. are not addressed here. The magnetic characterization further indicates that the anisotropy in shape plays a crucial role in deciding the magnetic properties of the nanostructured materials. We have quantified an interesting result in our experiment, that is, for a given partial pressure, 100 A arc current results in unique variation in structural and magnetic properties as compared to other arc currents.

Recent Advances in Active Infrared Thermography for Non-Destructive Testing of Aerospace Components.

PubMed

Ciampa, Francesco; Mahmoodi, Pooya; Pinto, Fulvio; Meo, Michele

2018-02-16

Active infrared thermography is a fast and accurate non-destructive evaluation technique that is of particular relevance to the aerospace industry for the inspection of aircraft and helicopters' primary and secondary structures, aero-engine parts, spacecraft components and its subsystems. This review provides an exhaustive summary of most recent active thermographic methods used for aerospace applications according to their physical principle and thermal excitation sources. Besides traditional optically stimulated thermography, which uses external optical radiation such as flashes, heaters and laser systems, novel hybrid thermographic techniques are also investigated. These include ultrasonic stimulated thermography, which uses ultrasonic waves and the local damage resonance effect to enhance the reliability and sensitivity to micro-cracks, eddy current stimulated thermography, which uses cost-effective eddy current excitation to generate induction heating, and microwave thermography, which uses electromagnetic radiation at the microwave frequency bands to provide rapid detection of cracks and delamination. All these techniques are here analysed and numerous examples are provided for different damage scenarios and aerospace components in order to identify the strength and limitations of each thermographic technique. Moreover, alternative strategies to current external thermal excitation sources, here named as material-based thermography methods, are examined in this paper. These novel thermographic techniques rely on thermoresistive internal heating and offer a fast, low power, accurate and reliable assessment of damage in aerospace composites.

Recent Advances in Active Infrared Thermography for Non-Destructive Testing of Aerospace Components

PubMed Central

Mahmoodi, Pooya; Pinto, Fulvio; Meo, Michele

2018-01-01

Active infrared thermography is a fast and accurate non-destructive evaluation technique that is of particular relevance to the aerospace industry for the inspection of aircraft and helicopters’ primary and secondary structures, aero-engine parts, spacecraft components and its subsystems. This review provides an exhaustive summary of most recent active thermographic methods used for aerospace applications according to their physical principle and thermal excitation sources. Besides traditional optically stimulated thermography, which uses external optical radiation such as flashes, heaters and laser systems, novel hybrid thermographic techniques are also investigated. These include ultrasonic stimulated thermography, which uses ultrasonic waves and the local damage resonance effect to enhance the reliability and sensitivity to micro-cracks, eddy current stimulated thermography, which uses cost-effective eddy current excitation to generate induction heating, and microwave thermography, which uses electromagnetic radiation at the microwave frequency bands to provide rapid detection of cracks and delamination. All these techniques are here analysed and numerous examples are provided for different damage scenarios and aerospace components in order to identify the strength and limitations of each thermographic technique. Moreover, alternative strategies to current external thermal excitation sources, here named as material-based thermography methods, are examined in this paper. These novel thermographic techniques rely on thermoresistive internal heating and offer a fast, low power, accurate and reliable assessment of damage in aerospace composites. PMID:29462953

Fiber Loop Ringdown — a Time-Domain Sensing Technique for Multi-Function Fiber Optic Sensor Platforms: Current Status and Design Perspectives

PubMed Central

Wang, Chuji

2009-01-01

Fiber loop ringdown (FLRD) utilizes an inexpensive telecommunications light source, a photodiode, and a section of single-mode fiber to form a uniform fiber optic sensor platform for sensing various quantities, such as pressure, temperature, strain, refractive index, chemical species, biological cells, and small volume of fluids. In FLRD, optical losses of a light pulse in a fiber loop induced by changes in a quantity are measured by the light decay time constants. FLRD measures time to detect a quantity; thus, FLRD is referred to as a time-domain sensing technique. FLRD sensors have near real-time response, multi-pass enhanced high-sensitivity, and relatively low cost (i.e., without using an optical spectral analyzer). During the last eight years since the introduction of the original form of fiber ringdown spectroscopy, there has been increasing interest in the FLRD technique in fiber optic sensor developments, and new application potential is being explored. This paper first discusses the challenging issues in development of multi-function, fiber optic sensors or sensor networks using current fiber optic sensor sensing schemes, and then gives a review on current fiber optic sensor development using FLRD technique. Finally, design perspectives on new generation, multi-function, fiber optic sensor platforms using FLRD technique are particularly presented. PMID:22408471

Issues to Consider in Designing WebQuests: A Literature Review

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kurt, Serhat

2012-01-01

A WebQuest is an inquiry-based online learning technique. This technique has been widely adopted in K-16 education. Therefore, it is important that conditions of effective WebQuest design are defined. Through this article the author presents techniques for improving WebQuest design based on current research. More specifically, the author analyzes…

A Simplified Technique for Scoring DSM-IV Personality Disorders with the Five-Factor Model

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Miller, Joshua D.; Bagby, R. Michael; Pilkonis, Paul A.; Reynolds, Sarah K.; Lynam, Donald R.

2005-01-01

The current study compares the use of two alternative methodologies for using the Five-Factor Model (FFM) to assess personality disorders (PDs). Across two clinical samples, a technique using the simple sum of selected FFM facets is compared with a previously used prototype matching technique. The results demonstrate that the more easily…

How do you exercise with epilepsy? Insights into the barriers and adaptations to successfully exercise with epilepsy.

PubMed

Collard, Sarah S; Ellis-Hill, Caroline

2017-05-01

Exercise has been shown to be a physiological and psychological benefit for people with epilepsy (PWE). However, barriers prevent many PWE from exercising safely and confidently. This research explored current perceived barriers to exercise and adaptation techniques used by PWE in order to maintain physical activity levels. Three focus groups (2-3 participants per group) and three semi-structured interviews were conducted (11 participants total). Constructive grounded theory was used to frame the study and analyse the findings, presenting new insight into the motivation, perceived barriers, and adaptation techniques used to exercise. The main motivator to maintain physical activity levels was the benefit of exercise on physical and mental health. This was shown in an increase in mood, higher social interaction, and perceived improvement in overall physical health as a result of exercise. Current barriers to exercise included a fear of injury, lack of social support, and exercise-induced seizures (e.g., through overheating and/or high exercise intensity level). Adaptation techniques used were self-monitoring through the use of technology, reducing exercise frequency and intensity level, and exercising at certain times of the day. The importance of social support was shown to provide increased confidence and positive encouragement to exercise, contrasting with family and friends worrying for his/her safety and medical professionals requesting termination of some physical activities. These findings provide new insight into current adaptation techniques that are used and developed by PWE to overcome common barriers to exercise. These new additions to the literature can lead to further development of such techniques as well as examine current medical professionals' knowledge of the benefits of exercise for PWE. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Silver-based Antibacterial Surfaces for Drinking Water Disinfection - An overview

EPA Science Inventory

Risks associated with current disinfection techniques, including the formation of disinfection by-products and multi-drug resistant bacterial species, have prompted the exploration of advanced disinfection methods. One such technique employs silver nanoparticles incorporation on ...

An assessment of finite-element modeling techniques for thick-solid/thin-shell joints analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Min, J. B.; Androlake, S. G.

1993-01-01

The subject of finite-element modeling has long been of critical importance to the practicing designer/analyst who is often faced with obtaining an accurate and cost-effective structural analysis of a particular design. Typically, these two goals are in conflict. The purpose is to discuss the topic of finite-element modeling for solid/shell connections (joints) which are significant for the practicing modeler. Several approaches are currently in use, but frequently various assumptions restrict their use. Such techniques currently used in practical applications were tested, especially to see which technique is the most ideally suited for the computer aided design (CAD) environment. Some basic thoughts regarding each technique are also discussed. As a consequence, some suggestions based on the results are given to lead reliable results in geometrically complex joints where the deformation and stress behavior are complicated.

Atmospheric-Pressure-Spray, Chemical- Vapor-Deposited Thin-Film Materials Being Developed for High Power-to- Weight-Ratio Space Photovoltaic Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hepp, Aloysius F.; Harris, Jerry D.; Raffaelle, Ryne P.; Banger, Kulbinder K.; Smith, Mark A.; Cowen, Jonathan E.

2001-01-01

The key to achieving high specific power (watts per kilogram) space photovoltaic arrays is the development of high-efficiency thin-film solar cells that are fabricated on lightweight, space-qualified substrates such as Kapton (DuPont) or another polymer film. Cell efficiencies of 20 percent air mass zero (AM0) are required. One of the major obstacles to developing lightweight, flexible, thin-film solar cells is the unavailability of lightweight substrate or superstrate materials that are compatible with current deposition techniques. There are two solutions for working around this problem: (1) develop new substrate or superstrate materials that are compatible with current deposition techniques, or (2) develop new deposition techniques that are compatible with existing materials. The NASA Glenn Research Center has been focusing on the latter approach and has been developing a deposition technique for depositing thin-film absorbers at temperatures below 400 C.

Ensuring safety of implanted devices under MRI using reversed RF polarization.

PubMed

Overall, William R; Pauly, John M; Stang, Pascal P; Scott, Greig C

2010-09-01

Patients with long-wire medical implants are currently prevented from undergoing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans due to the risk of radio frequency (RF) heating. We have developed a simple technique for determining the heating potential for these implants using reversed radio frequency (RF) polarization. This technique could be used on a patient-to-patient basis as a part of the standard prescan procedure to ensure that the subject's device does not pose a heating risk. By using reversed quadrature polarization, the MR scan can be sensitized exclusively to the potentially dangerous currents in the device. Here, we derive the physical principles governing the technique and explore the primary sources of inaccuracy. These principles are verified through finite-difference simulations and through phantom scans of implant leads. These studies demonstrate the potential of the technique for sensitively detecting potentially dangerous coupling conditions before they can do any harm. 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

From detection to deflection: Mitigation techniques for hidden global threats of natural space objects with short warning time

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hussein, Alaa; Rozenheck, Oshri; Entrena Utrilla, Carlos Manuel

2016-09-01

Throughout recorded history, hundreds of Earth impacts have been reported, with some catastrophic localized consequences. Based on the International Space University (ISU) Planetary Defense project named READI, we address the impact event problem by giving recommendations for the development of a planetary defense program. This paper reviews the current detection and tracking techniques and gives a set of recommendations for a better preparation to shield Earth from asteroid and cometary impacts. We also extend the use of current deflection techniques and propose a new compilation of those to deflect medium-sized potentially hazardous objects (PHOs). Using an array of techniques from high-energy lasers to defensive missiles, we present a set of protective layers to defend our planet. The paper focused on threats with a short warning period from discovery to impact with Earth, within few years.

Single-incision Laparoscopic Surgery (SILS) in general surgery: a review of current practice.

PubMed

Froghi, Farid; Sodergren, Mikael Hans; Darzi, Ara; Paraskeva, Paraskevas

2010-08-01

Single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) aims to eliminate multiple port incisions. Although general operative principles of SILS are similar to conventional laparoscopic surgery, operative techniques are not standardized. This review aims to evaluate the current use of SILS published in the literature by examining the types of operations performed, techniques employed, and relevant complications and morbidity. This review considered a total of 94 studies reporting 1889 patients evaluating 17 different general surgical operations. There were 8 different access techniques reported using conventional laparoscopic instruments and specifically designed SILS ports. There is extensive heterogeneity associated with operating methods and in particular ways of overcoming problems with retraction and instrumentation. Published complications, morbidity, and hospital length of stay are comparable to conventional laparoscopy. Although SILS provides excellent cosmetic results and morbidity seems similar to conventional laparoscopy, larger randomized controlled trials are needed to assess the safety and efficacy of this novel technique.

Biosensor-based microRNA detection: techniques, design, performance, and challenges.

PubMed

Johnson, Blake N; Mutharasan, Raj

2014-04-07

The current state of biosensor-based techniques for amplification-free microRNA (miRNA) detection is critically reviewed. Comparison with non-sensor and amplification-based molecular techniques (MTs), such as polymerase-based methods, is made in terms of transduction mechanism, associated protocol, and sensitivity. Challenges associated with miRNA hybridization thermodynamics which affect assay selectivity and amplification bias are briefly discussed. Electrochemical, electromechanical, and optical classes of miRNA biosensors are reviewed in terms of transduction mechanism, limit of detection (LOD), time-to-results (TTR), multiplexing potential, and measurement robustness. Current trends suggest that biosensor-based techniques (BTs) for miRNA assay will complement MTs due to the advantages of amplification-free detection, LOD being femtomolar (fM)-attomolar (aM), short TTR, multiplexing capability, and minimal sample preparation requirement. Areas of future importance in miRNA BT development are presented which include focus on achieving high measurement confidence and multiplexing capabilities.

Extension of the Viscous Collision Limiting Direct Simulation Monte Carlo Technique to Multiple Species

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Liechty, Derek S.; Burt, Jonathan M.

2016-01-01

There are many flows fields that span a wide range of length scales where regions of both rarefied and continuum flow exist and neither direct simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) nor computational fluid dynamics (CFD) provide the appropriate solution everywhere. Recently, a new viscous collision limited (VCL) DSMC technique was proposed to incorporate effects of physical diffusion into collision limiter calculations to make the low Knudsen number regime normally limited to CFD more tractable for an all-particle technique. This original work had been derived for a single species gas. The current work extends the VCL-DSMC technique to gases with multiple species. Similar derivations were performed to equate numerical and physical transport coefficients. However, a more rigorous treatment of determining the mixture viscosity is applied. In the original work, consideration was given to internal energy non-equilibrium, and this is also extended in the current work to chemical non-equilibrium.

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy: More than a restrictive bariatric surgery procedure?

PubMed Central

Benaiges, David; Más-Lorenzo, Antonio; Goday, Albert; Ramon, José M; Chillarón, Juan J; Pedro-Botet, Juan; Roux, Juana A Flores-Le

2015-01-01

Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is a restrictive bariatric surgery technique that was first used as part of restrictive horizontal gastrectomy in the original Scopinaro type biliopancreatic diversion. Its good results as a single technique have led to a rise in its use, and it is currently the second most performed technique worldwide. SG achieves clearly better results than other restrictive techniques and is comparable in some aspects to the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, the current gold standard in bariatric surgery. These benefits have been associated with different pathophysiologic mechanisms unrelated to weight loss such as increased gastric emptying and intestinal transit, and activation of hormonal mechanisms such as increased GLP-1 hormone and decreased ghrelin. The aim of this review was to highlight the salient aspects of SG regarding its historical evolution, pathophysiologic mechanisms, main results, clinical applications and perioperative complications. PMID:26557004

Recent flight-test results of optical airdata techniques

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bogue, Rodney K.

1993-01-01

Optical techniques for measuring airdata parameters were demonstrated with promising results on high performance fighter aircraft. These systems can measure the airspeed vector, and some are not as dependent on special in-flight calibration processes as current systems. Optical concepts for measuring freestream static temperature and density are feasible for in-flight applications. The best feature of these concepts is that the air data measurements are obtained nonintrusively, and for the most part well into the freestream region of the flow field about the aircraft. Current requirements for measuring air data at high angle of attack, and future need to measure the same information at hypersonic flight conditions place strains on existing techniques. Optical technology advances show outstanding potential for application in future programs and promise to make common use of optical concepts a reality. Results from several flight-test programs are summarized, and the technology advances required to make optical airdata techniques practical are identified.

Minimally invasive computer-assisted stereotactic fenestration of an aqueductal cyst: case report.

PubMed

Fonoff, E T; Gentil, A F; Padilha, P M; Teixeira, M J

2010-02-01

Current advances in frame modeling and computer software allow stereotactic procedures to be performed with great accuracy and minimal risk of neural tissue or vascular injury. In this report we associate a previously described minimally invasive stereotactic technique with state-of-the-art 3D computer guidance technology to successfully treat a 55-year-old patient with an arachnoidal cyst obstructing the aqueduct of Sylvius. We provide detailed technical information and discuss how this technique deals with previous limitations for stereotactic manipulation of the aqueductal region. We further discuss current advances in neuroendoscopy for treating obstructive hydrocephalus and make comparisons with our proposed technique. We advocate that this technique is not only capable of treating this pathology but it also has the advantages to enable reestablishment of physiological CSF flow thus preventing future brainstem compression by cyst enlargement. (c) Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart . New York.

4800 B/S speech compression techniques for mobile satellite systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Townes, S. A.; Barnwell, T. P., III; Rose, R. C.; Gersho, A.; Davidson, G.

1986-01-01

This paper will discuss three 4800 bps digital speech compression techniques currently being investigated for application in the mobile satellite service. These three techniques, vector adaptive predictive coding, vector excitation coding, and the self excited vocoder, are the most promising among a number of techniques being developed to possibly provide near-toll-quality speech compression while still keeping the bit-rate low enough for a power and bandwidth limited satellite service.

The Generation of Novel MR Imaging Techniques to Visualize Inflammatory/Degenerative Mechanisms and the Correlation of MR Data with 3D Microscopic Changes

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-09-01

structures that are impossible with current methods . Using techniques to concurrently stain and three-dimensionally analyze many cell types and...new methods allowed us to visualize structures in these damaged samples that were not visible using conventional techniques allowing us modify our...AWARD NUMBER: W81XWH-11-1-0705 TITLE: The Generation of Novel MR Imaging Techniques to

First Measurement of the Muon Anti-Neutrino Charged Current Quasielastic Double-Differential Cross-Section

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

Grange, Joseph M.

2013-01-01

This dissertation presents the first measurement of the muon antineutrino charged current quasi-elastic double-differential cross section. These data significantly extend the knowledge of neutrino and antineutrino interactions in the GeV range, a region that has recently come under scrutiny due to a number of conflicting experimental results. To maximize the precision of this measurement, three novel techniques were employed to measure the neutrino background component of the data set. Representing the first measurements of the neutrino contribution to an accelerator-based antineutrino beam in the absence of a magnetic field, the successful execution of these techniques carry implications for current andmore » future neutrino experiments.« less

Current transport and capacitance-voltage characteristics of an n-PbTe/p-GaP heterojunction prepared using the electron beam deposition technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nasr, Mahmoud; El Radaf, I. M.; Mansour, A. M.

2018-04-01

In this study, a crystalline n-PbTe/p-GaP heterojunction was fabricated using the electron beam deposition technique. The structural properties of the prepared heterojunction were examined by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. The dark current-voltage characteristics of the heterojunction were investigated at different temperatures ranging from 298 to 398 K. The rectification factor, series resistance, shunt resistance, diode ideality factor, and effective barrier height (ϕb) were determined. The photovoltaic parameters were identified based on the current density-voltage characteristics under illumination. The capacitance-voltage characteristics showed that the junction was abrupt in nature.

Cranial electrotherapy stimulation and transcranial pulsed current stimulation: a computer based high-resolution modeling study.

PubMed

Datta, Abhishek; Dmochowski, Jacek P; Guleyupoglu, Berkan; Bikson, Marom; Fregni, Felipe

2013-01-15

The field of non-invasive brain stimulation has developed significantly over the last two decades. Though two techniques of noninvasive brain stimulation--transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)--are becoming established tools for research in neuroscience and for some clinical applications, related techniques that also show some promising clinical results have not been developed at the same pace. One of these related techniques is cranial electrotherapy stimulation (CES), a class of transcranial pulsed current stimulation (tPCS). In order to understand further the mechanisms of CES, we aimed to model CES using a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-derived finite element head model including cortical and also subcortical structures. Cortical electric field (current density) peak intensities and distributions were analyzed. We evaluated different electrode configurations of CES including in-ear and over-ear montages. Our results confirm that significant amounts of current pass the skull and reach cortical and subcortical structures. In addition, depending on the montage, induced currents at subcortical areas, such as midbrain, pons, thalamus and hypothalamus are of similar magnitude than that of cortical areas. Incremental variations of electrode position on the head surface also influence which cortical regions are modulated. The high-resolution modeling predictions suggest that details of electrode montage influence current flow through superficial and deep structures. Finally we present laptop based methods for tPCS dose design using dominant frequency and spherical models. These modeling predictions and tools are the first step to advance rational and optimized use of tPCS and CES. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Nulling Hall-Effect Current-Measuring Circuit

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sullender, Craig C.; Vazquez, Juan M.; Berru, Robert I.

1993-01-01

Circuit measures electrical current via combination of Hall-effect-sensing and magnetic-field-nulling techniques. Known current generated by feedback circuit adjusted until it causes cancellation or near cancellation of magnetic field produced in toroidal ferrite core by current measured. Remaining magnetic field measured by Hall-effect sensor. Circuit puts out analog signal and digital signal proportional to current measured. Accuracy of measurement does not depend on linearity of sensing components.

Metal current collect protected by oxide film

DOEpatents

Jacobson, Craig P.; Visco, Steven J.; DeJonghe, Lutgard C.

2004-05-25

Provided are low-cost, mechanically strong, highly electronically conductive current collects and associated structures for solid-state electrochemical devices, techniques for forming these structures, and devices incorporating the structures. The invention provides solid state electrochemical devices having as current interconnects a ferritic steel felt or screen coated with a protective oxide film.

INSTRUMENTATION AND TECHNIQUES. A SELF-CONTAINED, REGULATED, BURST-FIRING CONSTANT-CURRENT AC SHOCK GENERATOR

EPA Science Inventory

A line- and load-regulated constant-current ac shock generator has been designed for animal behavior experiments. The self-contained unit has four operating modes, amplitude adjustment, and a leakage current detection circuit. A unique feature of this generator is that the good l...

Result Merging Strategies for a Current News Metasearcher.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rasolofo, Yves; Hawking, David; Savoy, Jacques

2003-01-01

Metasearching of online current news services is a potentially useful Web application of distributed information retrieval techniques. Reports experiences in building a metasearcher designed to provide up-to-date searching over a significant number of rapidly changing current news sites, focusing on how to merge results from the search engines at…

Play Therapy: A Review

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Porter, Maggie L.; Hernandez-Reif, Maria; Jessee, Peggy

2009-01-01

This article discusses the current issues in play therapy and its implications for play therapists. A brief history of play therapy is provided along with the current play therapy approaches and techniques. This article also touches on current issues or problems that play therapists may face, such as interpreting children's play, implementing…

A novel eco-friendly technique for efficient control of lime water softening process.

PubMed

Ostovar, Mohamad; Amiri, Mohamad

2013-12-01

Lime softening is an established type of water treatment used for water softening. The performance of this process is highly dependent on lime dosage. Currently, lime dosage is adjusted manually based on chemical tests, aimed at maintaining the phenolphthalein (P) and total (M) alkalinities within a certain range (2 P - M > or = 5). In this paper, a critical study of the softening process has been presented. It has been shown that the current method is frequently incorrect. Furthermore, electrical conductivity (EC) has been introduced as a novel indicator for effectively characterizing the lime softening process.This novel technique has several advantages over the current alkalinities method. Because no chemical reagents are needed for titration, which is a simple test, there is a considerable reduction in test costs. Additionally, there is a reduction in the treated water hardness and generated sludge during the lime softening process. Therefore, it is highly eco-friendly, and is a very cost effective alternative technique for efficient control of the lime softening process.

Eddy current techniques for super duplex stainless steel characterization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Camerini, C.; Sacramento, R.; Areiza, M. C.; Rocha, A.; Santos, R.; Rebello, J. M.; Pereira, G.

2015-08-01

Super duplex stainless steel (SDSS) is a two-phase material where the microstructure consists of grains of ferrite (δ) and austenite (γ). SDSS exhibit an attractive combination of properties, such as: strength, toughness and stress corrosion cracking resistance. Nevertheless, SDSS attain these properties after a controlled solution heat treatment, leading to a similar volumetric fraction of δ and γ. Any further heat treatment, welding operation for example, can change the balance of the original phases, or may also lead to precipitation of a deleterious phase, such as sigma (σ). For these situations, the material corrosion resistance is severely impaired. In the present study, several SDSS samples with low σ phase content and non-balanced microstructure were intentionally obtained by thermally treating SDSS specimens. Electromagnetic techniques, conventional Eddy Current Testing (ECT) and Saturated Low Frequency Eddy Current (SLOFEC), were employed to characterize the SDSS samples. The results showed that ECT and SLOFEC are reliable techniques to evaluate σ phase presence in SDSS and can provide an estimation of the δ content.

J-substitution algorithm in magnetic resonance electrical impedance tomography (MREIT): phantom experiments for static resistivity images.

PubMed

Khang, Hyun Soo; Lee, Byung Il; Oh, Suk Hoon; Woo, Eung Je; Lee, Soo Yeol; Cho, Min Hyoung; Kwon, Ohin; Yoon, Jeong Rock; Seo, Jin Keun

2002-06-01

Recently, a new static resistivity image reconstruction algorithm is proposed utilizing internal current density data obtained by magnetic resonance current density imaging technique. This new imaging method is called magnetic resonance electrical impedance tomography (MREIT). The derivation and performance of J-substitution algorithm in MREIT have been reported as a new accurate and high-resolution static impedance imaging technique via computer simulation methods. In this paper, we present experimental procedures, denoising techniques, and image reconstructions using a 0.3-tesla (T) experimental MREIT system and saline phantoms. MREIT using J-substitution algorithm effectively utilizes the internal current density information resolving the problem inherent in a conventional EIT, that is, the low sensitivity of boundary measurements to any changes of internal tissue resistivity values. Resistivity images of saline phantoms show an accuracy of 6.8%-47.2% and spatial resolution of 64 x 64. Both of them can be significantly improved by using an MRI system with a better signal-to-noise ratio.

Constraint-based integration of planning and scheduling for space-based observatory management

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Muscettola, Nicola; Smith, Steven F.

1994-01-01

Progress toward the development of effective, practical solutions to space-based observatory scheduling problems within the HSTS scheduling framework is reported. HSTS was developed and originally applied in the context of the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) short-term observation scheduling problem. The work was motivated by the limitations of the current solution and, more generally, by the insufficiency of classical planning and scheduling approaches in this problem context. HSTS has subsequently been used to develop improved heuristic solution techniques in related scheduling domains and is currently being applied to develop a scheduling tool for the upcoming Submillimeter Wave Astronomy Satellite (SWAS) mission. The salient architectural characteristics of HSTS and their relationship to previous scheduling and AI planning research are summarized. Then, some key problem decomposition techniques underlying the integrated planning and scheduling approach to the HST problem are described; research results indicate that these techniques provide leverage in solving space-based observatory scheduling problems. Finally, more recently developed constraint-posting scheduling procedures and the current SWAS application focus are summarized.

A Manually Operated, Advance Off-Stylet Insertion Tool for Minimally Invasive Cochlear Implantation Surgery

PubMed Central

Kratchman, Louis B.; Schurzig, Daniel; McRackan, Theodore R.; Balachandran, Ramya; Noble, Jack H.; Webster, Robert J.; Labadie, Robert F.

2014-01-01

The current technique for cochlear implantation (CI) surgery requires a mastoidectomy to gain access to the cochlea for electrode array insertion. It has been shown that microstereotactic frames can enable an image-guided, minimally invasive approach to CI surgery called percutaneous cochlear implantation (PCI) that uses a single drill hole for electrode array insertion, avoiding a more invasive mastoidectomy. Current clinical methods for electrode array insertion are not compatible with PCI surgery because they require a mastoidectomy to access the cochlea; thus, we have developed a manually operated electrode array insertion tool that can be deployed through a PCI drill hole. The tool can be adjusted using a preoperative CT scan for accurate execution of the advance off-stylet (AOS) insertion technique and requires less skill to operate than is currently required to implant electrode arrays. We performed three cadaver insertion experiments using the AOS technique and determined that all insertions were successful using CT and microdissection. PMID:22851233

Analysis and development of fourth order LCLC resonant based capacitor charging power supply for pulse power applications.

PubMed

Naresh, P; Hitesh, C; Patel, A; Kolge, T; Sharma, Archana; Mittal, K C

2013-08-01

A fourth order (LCLC) resonant converter based capacitor charging power supply (CCPS) is designed and developed for pulse power applications. Resonant converters are preferred t utilize soft switching techniques such as zero current switching (ZCS) and zero voltage switching (ZVS). An attempt has been made to overcome the disadvantages in 2nd and 3rd resonant converter topologies; hence a fourth order resonant topology is used in this paper for CCPS application. In this paper a novel fourth order LCLC based resonant converter has been explored and mathematical analysis carried out to calculate load independent constant current. This topology provides load independent constant current at switching frequency (fs) equal to resonant frequency (fr). By changing switching condition (on time and dead time) this topology has both soft switching techniques such as ZCS and ZVS for better switching action to improve the converter efficiency. This novel technique has special features such as low peak current through switches, DC blocking for transformer, utilizing transformer leakage inductance as resonant component. A prototype has been developed and tested successfully to charge a 100 μF capacitor to 200 V.

Development of Eddy Current Techniques for the Detection of Cracking in Space Shuttle Primary Reaction Control Thrusters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wincheski, Buzz A.; Simpson, John W.; Koshti, Ajay

2007-01-01

A recent identification of cracking in the Space Shuttle Primary Reaction Control System (PRCS) thrusters triggered an extensive nondestructive evaluation effort to develop techniques capable of identifying such damage on installed shuttle hardware. As a part of this effort, specially designed eddy current probes inserted into the acoustic cavity were explored for the detection of such flaws and for evaluation of the remaining material between the crack tip and acoustic cavity. The technique utilizes two orthogonal eddy current probes which are scanned under stepper motor control in the acoustic cavity to identify cracks hidden with as much as 0.060 remaining wall thickness to the cavity. As crack growth rates in this area have been determined to be very slow, such an inspection provides a large safety margin for continued operation of the critical shuttle hardware. Testing has been performed on thruster components with both actual and fabricated defects. This paper will review the design and performance of the developed eddy current inspection system. Detection of flaws as a function of remaining wall thickness will be presented along with the proposed system configuration for depot level or on-vehicle inspection capabilities.

Development of Eddy Current Technique for the Detection of Stress Corrosion Cracking in Space Shuttle Primary Reaction Control Thrusters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wincheski, Buzz; Simpson, John; Koshti, Ajay

2006-01-01

A recent identification of stress corrosion cracking in the Space Shuttle Primary Reaction Control System (PRCS) thrusters triggered an extensive nondestructive evaluation effort to develop techniques capable of identifying such damage on installed shuttle hardware. As a part of this effort, specially designed eddy current probes inserted into the acoustic cavity were explored for the detection of such flaws and for evaluation of the remaining material between the crack tip and acoustic cavity. The technique utilizes two orthogonal eddy current probes which are scanned under stepper motor control in the acoustic cavity to identify cracks hidden with as much as 0.060 remaining wall thickness to the cavity. As crack growth rates in this area have been determined to be very slow, such an inspection provides a large safety margin for continued operation of the critical shuttle hardware. Testing has been performed on thruster components with both actual and fabricated defects. This paper will review the design and performance of the developed eddy current inspection system. Detection of flaws as a function of remaining wall thickness will be presented along with the proposed system configuration for depot level or on-vehicle inspection capabilities.

A 540-[Formula: see text] Duty Controlled RSSI With Current Reusing Technique for Human Body Communication.

PubMed

Jang, Jaeeun; Lee, Yongsu; Cho, Hyunwoo; Yoo, Hoi-Jun

2016-08-01

An ultra-low-power duty controlled received signal strength indicator (RSSI) is implemented for human body communication (HBC) in 180 nm CMOS technology under 1.5 V supply. The proposed RSSI adopted 3 following key features for low-power consumption; 1) current reusing technique (CR-RSSI) with replica bias circuit and calibration unit, 2) duty controller, and 3) reconfigurable gm-boosting LNA. The CR-RSSI utilizes stacked amplifier-rectifier-cell (AR-cell) to reuse the supply current of each blocks. As a result, the power consumption becomes 540 [Formula: see text] with +/-2 dB accuracy and 75 dB dynamic range. The replica bias circuit and calibration unit are adopted to increase the reliability of CR-RSSI. In addition, the duty controller turns off the RSSI when it is not required, and this function leads 70% power reduction. At last, the gm-boosting reconfigurable LNA can adaptively vary its noise and linearity performance with respect to input signal strength. Fro current reusing technique m this feature, we achieve 62% power reduction in the LNA. Thanks to these schemes, compared to the previous works, we can save 70% of power in RSSI and LNA.

Using dark current data to estimate AVIRIS noise covariance and improve spectral analyses

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Boardman, Joseph W.

1995-01-01

Starting in 1994, all AVIRIS data distributions include a new product useful for quantification and modeling of the noise in the reported radiance data. The 'postcal' file contains approximately 100 lines of dark current data collected at the end of each data acquisition run. In essence this is a regular spectral-image cube, with 614 samples, 100 lines and 224 channels, collected with a closed shutter. Since there is no incident radiance signal, the recorded DN measure only the DC signal level and the noise in the system. Similar dark current measurements, made at the end of each line are used, with a 100 line moving average, to remove the DC signal offset. Therefore, the pixel-by-pixel fluctuations about the mean of this dark current image provide an excellent model for the additive noise that is present in AVIRIS reported radiance data. The 61,400 dark current spectra can be used to calculate the noise levels in each channel and the noise covariance matrix. Both of these noise parameters should be used to improve spectral processing techniques. Some processing techniques, such as spectral curve fitting, will benefit from a robust estimate of the channel-dependent noise levels. Other techniques, such as automated unmixing and classification, will be improved by the stable and scene-independence noise covariance estimate. Future imaging spectrometry systems should have a similar ability to record dark current data, permitting this noise characterization and modeling.

Two techniques for mapping and area estimation of small grains in California using Landsat digital data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sheffner, E. J.; Hlavka, C. A.; Bauer, E. M.

1984-01-01

Two techniques have been developed for the mapping and area estimation of small grains in California from Landsat digital data. The two techniques are Band Ratio Thresholding, a semi-automated version of a manual procedure, and LCLS, a layered classification technique which can be fully automated and is based on established clustering and classification technology. Preliminary evaluation results indicate that the two techniques have potential for providing map products which can be incorporated into existing inventory procedures and automated alternatives to traditional inventory techniques and those which currently employ Landsat imagery.

Kinematic cooling of molecules in a magneto-optical trap

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takase, Ken; Chandler, David W.; Strecker, Kevin E.

2008-05-01

We will present our current progress on a new experimental technique aimed at slowing and cooling hot molecules using a single collision with magneto-optically trapped atoms. Kinematic cooling, unlike buffer gas and sympathetic cooling, relies only on a single collision between the molecule and atom to stop the molecule in the laboratory frame. This technique has recently been demonstrated in a crossed atomic and molecular beam machine to produce 35mK samples of nitric oxide via a single collision with argon [1]. In this technique we replace the atomic beam with a sample magneto-optically trapped atoms. We are currently designing and building a new apparatus to attempt these experiments. [1] Kevin E. Strecker and David W. Chandler (to be published)

In-vitro tomography and non-destructive imaging at depth of pharmaceutical solid dosage forms.

PubMed

Zeitler, J Axel; Gladden, Lynn F

2009-01-01

Tomographic imaging techniques offer new prospects for a better understanding of the quality, performance and release mechanisms of pharmaceutical solid dosage forms. It is only over the last fifteen years that tomography has been applied for the in-vitro characterisation of dosage forms. This review aims to introduce the concept of tomography in a pharmaceutical context, and describes the current state-of-the-art of the four most promising techniques: X-ray computed microtomography, magnetic resonance imaging, terahertz imaging and optical coherence tomography. The basic working principles of the techniques are introduced and the current pharmaceutical applications of the technologies are discussed, together with a comparison of their specific strengths and weaknesses. Possible future developments in these fields are also discussed.

Investigation of high-strength bolt-tightening verification techniques.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-03-01

The current means and methods of verifying that high-strength bolts have been properly tightened are very laborious and time : consuming. In some cases, the techniques require special equipment and, in other cases, the verification itself may be some...

Software Toolbox for Low-Frequency Conductivity and Current Density Imaging Using MRI.

PubMed

Sajib, Saurav Z K; Katoch, Nitish; Kim, Hyung Joong; Kwon, Oh In; Woo, Eung Je

2017-11-01

Low-frequency conductivity and current density imaging using MRI includes magnetic resonance electrical impedance tomography (MREIT), diffusion tensor MREIT (DT-MREIT), conductivity tensor imaging (CTI), and magnetic resonance current density imaging (MRCDI). MRCDI and MREIT provide current density and isotropic conductivity images, respectively, using current-injection phase MRI techniques. DT-MREIT produces anisotropic conductivity tensor images by incorporating diffusion weighted MRI into MREIT. These current-injection techniques are finding clinical applications in diagnostic imaging and also in transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), deep brain stimulation (DBS), and electroporation where treatment currents can function as imaging currents. To avoid adverse effects of nerve and muscle stimulations due to injected currents, conductivity tensor imaging (CTI) utilizes B1 mapping and multi-b diffusion weighted MRI to produce low-frequency anisotropic conductivity tensor images without injecting current. This paper describes numerical implementations of several key mathematical functions for conductivity and current density image reconstructions in MRCDI, MREIT, DT-MREIT, and CTI. To facilitate experimental studies of clinical applications, we developed a software toolbox for these low-frequency conductivity and current density imaging methods. This MR-based conductivity imaging (MRCI) toolbox includes 11 toolbox functions which can be used in the MATLAB environment. The MRCI toolbox is available at http://iirc.khu.ac.kr/software.html . Its functions were tested by using several experimental datasets, which are provided together with the toolbox. Users of the toolbox can focus on experimental designs and interpretations of reconstructed images instead of developing their own image reconstruction softwares. We expect more toolbox functions to be added from future research outcomes. Low-frequency conductivity and current density imaging using MRI includes magnetic resonance electrical impedance tomography (MREIT), diffusion tensor MREIT (DT-MREIT), conductivity tensor imaging (CTI), and magnetic resonance current density imaging (MRCDI). MRCDI and MREIT provide current density and isotropic conductivity images, respectively, using current-injection phase MRI techniques. DT-MREIT produces anisotropic conductivity tensor images by incorporating diffusion weighted MRI into MREIT. These current-injection techniques are finding clinical applications in diagnostic imaging and also in transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), deep brain stimulation (DBS), and electroporation where treatment currents can function as imaging currents. To avoid adverse effects of nerve and muscle stimulations due to injected currents, conductivity tensor imaging (CTI) utilizes B1 mapping and multi-b diffusion weighted MRI to produce low-frequency anisotropic conductivity tensor images without injecting current. This paper describes numerical implementations of several key mathematical functions for conductivity and current density image reconstructions in MRCDI, MREIT, DT-MREIT, and CTI. To facilitate experimental studies of clinical applications, we developed a software toolbox for these low-frequency conductivity and current density imaging methods. This MR-based conductivity imaging (MRCI) toolbox includes 11 toolbox functions which can be used in the MATLAB environment. The MRCI toolbox is available at http://iirc.khu.ac.kr/software.html . Its functions were tested by using several experimental datasets, which are provided together with the toolbox. Users of the toolbox can focus on experimental designs and interpretations of reconstructed images instead of developing their own image reconstruction softwares. We expect more toolbox functions to be added from future research outcomes.

Recent advances in rapid and nondestructive determination of fat content and fatty acids composition of muscle foods.

PubMed

Tao, Feifei; Ngadi, Michael

2018-06-13

Conventional methods for determining fat content and fatty acids (FAs) composition are generally based on the solvent extraction and gas chromatography techniques, respectively, which are time consuming, laborious, destructive to samples and require use of hazard solvents. These disadvantages make them impossible for large-scale detection or being applied to the production line of meat factories. In this context, the great necessity of developing rapid and nondestructive techniques for fat and FAs analyses has been highlighted. Measurement techniques based on near-infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance and hyperspectral imaging have provided interesting and promising results for fat and FAs prediction in varieties of foods. Thus, the goal of this article is to give an overview of the current research progress in application of the four important techniques for fat and FAs analyses of muscle foods, which consist of pork, beef, lamb, chicken meat, fish and fish oil. The measurement techniques are described in terms of their working principles, features, and application advantages. Research advances for these techniques for specific food are summarized in detail and the factors influencing their modeling results are discussed. Perspectives on the current situation, future trends and challenges associated with the measurement techniques are also discussed.

Application of machine learning techniques to lepton energy reconstruction in water Cherenkov detectors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Drakopoulou, E.; Cowan, G. A.; Needham, M. D.; Playfer, S.; Taani, M.

2018-04-01

The application of machine learning techniques to the reconstruction of lepton energies in water Cherenkov detectors is discussed and illustrated for TITUS, a proposed intermediate detector for the Hyper-Kamiokande experiment. It is found that applying these techniques leads to an improvement of more than 50% in the energy resolution for all lepton energies compared to an approach based upon lookup tables. Machine learning techniques can be easily applied to different detector configurations and the results are comparable to likelihood-function based techniques that are currently used.

A preliminary study of the benefits of flying by ground speed during final approach

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hastings, E. C., Jr.

1978-01-01

A study was conducted to evaluate the benefits of an approach technique which utilized constant ground speed on approach. It was determined that the technique reduced the capacity losses in headwinds experienced with the currently used constant airspeed technique. The benefits of technique were found to increase as headwinds increased and as the wake avoidance separation intervals were reduced. An additional benefit noted for the constant ground speed technique was a reduction in stopping distance variance due to the approach wind environment.

Background and survey of bioreplication techniques.

PubMed

Pulsifer, Drew Patrick; Lakhtakia, Akhlesh

2011-09-01

Bioreplication is the direct reproduction of a biological structure in order to realize at least one specific functionality. Current bioreplication techniques include the sol-gel technique, atomic layer deposition, physical vapor deposition, and imprint lithography and casting. The combined use of a focused ion beam and a scanning electron microscope could develop into a bioreplication technique as well. Some of these techniques are more suitable for reproducing surface features, others for bulk three-dimensional structures. Industrial upscaling appears possible only for imprint lithography and casting (which can be replaced by stamping).

Novel method to control antenna currents based on theory of characteristic modes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elghannai, Ezdeen Ahmed

Characteristic Mode Theory is one of the very few numerical methods that provide a great deal of physical insight because it allows us to determine the natural modes of the radiating structure. The key feature of these modes is that the total induced antenna current, input impedance/admittance and radiation pattern can be expressed as a linear weighted combination of individual modes. Using this decomposition method, it is possible to study the behavior of the individual modes, understand them and therefore control the antennas behavior; in other words, control the currents induced on the antenna structure. This dissertation advances the topic of antenna design by carefully controlling the antenna currents over the desired frequency band to achieve the desired performance specifications for a set of constraints. Here, a systematic method based on the Theory of Characteristic Modes (CM) and lumped reactive loading to achieve the goal of current control is developed. The lumped reactive loads are determined based on the desired behavior of the antenna currents. This technique can also be used to impedance match the antenna to the source/generator connected to it. The technique is much more general than the traditional impedance matching. Generally, the reactive loads that properly control the currents exhibit a combination of Foster and non-Foster behavior. The former can be implemented with lumped passive reactive components, while the latter can be implemented with lumped non-Foster circuits (NFC). The concept of current control is applied to design antennas with a wide band (impedance/pattern) behavior using reactive loads. We successfully applied this novel technique to design multi band and wide band antennas for wireless applications. The technique was developed to match the antenna to resistive and/or complex source impedance and control the radiation pattern at these frequency bands, considering size and volume constraints. A wide band patch antenna was achieved using the developed technique. In addition, the technique was applied to multi band wire less Universal Serial Bus (USB) dongle antenna that serves for WLAN IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n band applications and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag antenna for 915MHz band applications with superior performance compared to previous published results. This dissertation also discusses the total Q of an antenna from the CM standpoint. A new expression as well as additional physical information about each mode's individual contribution to the total antenna Q are provided. Finally, the theory is used to an analyze the antenna in both radiation and/or scattering modes. In the antenna scattering mode, the field scattered by an antenna contains a component that is the short circuit scattered field, and a second component that is proportional to the radiation field. In this dissertation, an analytical study of this phenomena from the CM standpoint is performed aiming to shed some light on antenna scattering phenomenon where additional physical insight is obtained and thus used to reach desire results.

Chemical Synthesis Coxiella Burnetti Lipopolysaccharides: Structural Studies of Coxiella Burnetti Lipopolysaccharides.

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-11-30

currently evaluating two instrumental techniques which seem highly appropriate to this LPS project, supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC) and...NEW INSTRUMENTAL TECHNIQUES AND METHODS OF APPROACH 1. Supercritical Fluid Chromatography (SFC) ............... 6. 2. SFC and Mass Spectrometry...details are discussed below in the appropriate sections. B. NEW INSTRUMENTAL TECHNIQUES AND METHODS OF APPROACH 1. Supercritical Fluid Chromatography (SFC

Development of reliable techniques for the differential diagnosis of avian tumor viruses by immunohistochemistry and polymerase chain reaction from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue sections

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

In the past, several techniques have been developed as diagnostic tools for the differential diagnosis of tumours produced by Marek’s disease virus (MDV) from those induced by avian leukosis virus (ALV) and reticuloendotheliosis virus (REV). However, most current techniques are unreliable using form...

Recent advances in lossless coding techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yovanof, Gregory S.

Current lossless techniques are reviewed with reference to both sequential data files and still images. Two major groups of sequential algorithms, dictionary and statistical techniques, are discussed. In particular, attention is given to Lempel-Ziv coding, Huffman coding, and arithmewtic coding. The subject of lossless compression of imagery is briefly discussed. Finally, examples of practical implementations of lossless algorithms and some simulation results are given.

Current modifications to totally laparoscopic "apron technique".

PubMed

Dion, Yves-Marie; Thaveau, Fabien; Fearn, Shirley J

2003-08-01

Since our original description in 1997 of a totally laparoscopic technique for treatment of aortoiliac disease, this type of minimally invasive procedure has been used both in the United States and abroad. We describe improvements that should make this technique more easily reproducible. This modified procedure was offered to six patients, one of whom received a tube graft for treatment of aneurysm disease.

[Research progress on the technique and materials for three-dimensional bio-printing].

PubMed

Yang, Runhuai; Chen, Yueming; Ma, Changwang; Wang, Huiqin; Wang, Shuyue

2017-04-01

Three-dimensional (3D) bio-printing is a novel engineering technique by which the cells and support materials can be manufactured to a complex 3D structure. Compared with other 3D printing methods, 3D bio-printing should pay more attention to the biocompatible environment of the printing methods and the materials. Aimed at studying the feature of the 3D bio-printing, this paper mainly focuses on the current research state of 3D bio-printing, with the techniques and materials of the bio-printing especially emphasized. To introduce current printing methods, the inkjet method, extrusion method, stereolithography skill and laser-assisted technique are described. The printing precision, process, requirements and influence of all the techniques on cell status are compared. For introduction of the printing materials, the cross-link, biocompatibility and applications of common bio-printing materials are reviewed and compared. Most of the 3D bio-printing studies are being remained at the experimental stage up to now, so the review of 3D bio-printing could improve this technique for practical use, and it could also contribute to the further development of 3D bio-printing.

A Human Reliability Based Usability Evaluation Method for Safety-Critical Software

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

Phillippe Palanque; Regina Bernhaupt; Ronald Boring

2006-04-01

Recent years have seen an increasing use of sophisticated interaction techniques including in the field of safety critical interactive software [8]. The use of such techniques has been required in order to increase the bandwidth between the users and systems and thus to help them deal efficiently with increasingly complex systems. These techniques come from research and innovation done in the field of humancomputer interaction (HCI). A significant effort is currently being undertaken by the HCI community in order to apply and extend current usability evaluation techniques to these new kinds of interaction techniques. However, very little has been donemore » to improve the reliability of software offering these kinds of interaction techniques. Even testing basic graphical user interfaces remains a challenge that has rarely been addressed in the field of software engineering [9]. However, the non reliability of interactive software can jeopardize usability evaluation by showing unexpected or undesired behaviors. The aim of this SIG is to provide a forum for both researchers and practitioners interested in testing interactive software. Our goal is to define a roadmap of activities to cross fertilize usability and reliability testing of these kinds of systems to minimize duplicate efforts in both communities.« less

Testing a mediation model of psychotherapy process and outcome in psychodynamic psychotherapy: Previous client distress, psychodynamic techniques, dyadic working alliance, and current client distress.

PubMed

Kivlighan, Dennis M; Hill, Clara E; Ross, Katherine; Kline, Kathryn; Furhmann, Amy; Sauber, Elizabeth

2018-01-05

To test a sequential model of psychotherapy process and outcome, we included previous client distress, therapist psychodynamic techniques, dyadic working alliance, and current client distress. For 114 sets of eight-session segments in 40 cases of psychodynamic psychotherapy, clients completed the Outcome Questionnaire-45 and Inventory of Interpersonal Problems-32 after the first and final session, judges reliably coded one middle sessions on the Psychodynamic subscale of the Multitheoretical List of Therapeutic Interventions, and clients and therapists completed the Working Alliance Inventory after every session. Results indicated that higher use of psychodynamic techniques was associated with higher levels of the working alliance, which in turn was associated decreased client distress; and working alliance was higher later in psychotherapy. There was a significant indirect effect of psychodynamic techniques on decreases in distress mediated by the working alliance. Implications for theory, practice, and research are provided. Clinical or methodological significance of this article: Conducted a longitudinal, latent variable examination of the relationships of psychodynamic techniques and working alliance on client distress. Psychodynamic techniques have an indirect effect on decreases in client distress through the dyadic working alliance.

Robotic-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy in umbilical hernia patients: University of California, Irvine, technique for port placement and repair.

PubMed

Kim, William; Abdelshehid, Corollos; Lee, Hak J; Ahlering, Thomas

2012-06-01

To discuss a technique currently used at our institution for the management of umbilical hernias during robot-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy. As more patients undergo robot-assisted radical prostatectomy, there will be an increase in patients who qualify for robotic surgery with comorbidities. This technique has been utilized in clinically localized prostate cancer patients with umbilical hernias using the da Vinci Surgical System and standard laparoscopic instrumentation. Port placements and closures were performed by a resident assistant and a nurse at the operating table. The prostatectomy was performed by a single experienced surgeon at the console. Currently, no data are available regarding patients with umbilical hernias undergoing robotic prostatectomy. We reviewed our technique of port placement for patients with a pre-existing umbilical hernia undergoing robot-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy. This technique allows for a reduction of the umbilical hernia, the use of the fascial defect as a robotic port, and the removal of the prostate by way of transverse incision and transverse repair. In our experience, this technique is feasible and reproducible for any small or large umbilical hernia. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Endoscopic saphenous vein and radial harvest: state-of-the-art.

PubMed

Bisleri, Gianluigi; Muneretto, Claudio

2015-11-01

Over the past decade, there has been an increased adoption of minimally invasive techniques for saphenous vein and radial artery procurement during coronary artery bypass surgery, albeit concerns have been raised about the potential detrimental effects of the endoscopic approach when compared with the conventional 'open' technique. The aim of the present review is to analyse the current available techniques and evidence about the impact of an endoscopic approach on conduit quality and clinical outcomes. At present, the available techniques for endoscopic vessel harvesting can be based on a sealed or non-sealed concept, for both saphenous vein and radial artery procurement. Despite the proven advantages of a minimally invasive approach in terms of reduced incidence of wound complications, pain reduction and improved cosmetic results, some studies questioned the impact of this technique in terms of potential graft damage, thus impairing the longevity of the graft itself. Endoscopic conduit harvesting can be performed safely and effectively with the currently available techniques, albeit a careful knowledge of the pitfalls of each technique is mandatory. Since there is ample evidence in literature that a minimally invasive approach for saphenous vein and radial artery procurement is not associated with an increased risk of graft damage and related failure in the mid-long term, the endoscopic technique should be adopted as the approach of choice for saphenous vein and radial artery harvesting in coronary artery bypass graft surgery.

Electrical bioimpedance and other techniques for gastric emptying and motility evaluation

PubMed Central

Huerta-Franco, María Raquel; Vargas-Luna, Miguel; Montes-Frausto, Juana Berenice; Flores-Hernández, Corina; Morales-Mata, Ismael

2012-01-01

The aim of this article is to identify non-invasive, inexpensive, highly sensitive and accurate techniques for evaluating and diagnosing gastric diseases. In the case of the stomach, there are highly sensitive and specific methods for assessing gastric motility and emptying (GME). However, these methods are invasive, expensive and/or not technically feasible for all clinicians and patients. We present a summary of the most relevant international information on non-invasive methods and techniques for clinically evaluating GME. We particularly emphasize the potential of gastric electrical bioimpedance (EBI). EBI was initially used mainly in gastric emptying studies and was essentially abandoned in favor of techniques such as electrogastrography and the gold standard, scintigraphy. The current research evaluating the utility of gastric EBI either combines this technique with other frequently used techniques or uses new methods for gastric EBI signal analysis. In this context, we discuss our results and those of other researchers who have worked with gastric EBI. In this review article, we present the following topics: (1) a description of the oldest methods and procedures for evaluating GME; (2) an explanation of the methods currently used to evaluate gastric activity; and (3) a perspective on the newest trends and techniques in clinical and research GME methods. We conclude that gastric EBI is a highly effective non-invasive, easy to use and inexpensive technique for assessing GME. PMID:22368782

The Use of Brain Stimulation in Dysphagia Management.

PubMed

Simons, Andre; Hamdy, Shaheen

2017-04-01

Dysphagia is common sequela of brain injury with as many as 50% of patients suffering from dysphagia following stroke. Currently, the majority of guidelines for clinical practice in the management of dysphagia focus on the prevention of complications while any natural recovery takes place. Recently, however, non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) techniques like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) have started to attract attention and are applied to investigate both the physiology of swallowing and influences on dysphagia. TMS allows for painless stimulation of the brain through an intact skull-an effect which would normally be impossible with electrical currents due to the high resistance of the skull. By comparison, tDCS involves passing a small electric current (usually under 2 mA) produced by a current generator over the scalp and cranium external to the brain. Initial studies used these techniques to better understand the physiological mechanisms of swallowing in healthy subjects. More recently, a number of studies have investigated the efficacy of these techniques in the management of neurogenic dysphagia with mixed results. Controversy still exists as to which site, strength and duration of stimulation yields the greatest improvement in dysphagia. And while multiple studies have suggested promising effects of NIBS, more randomised control trials with larger sample sizes are needed to investigate the short- and long-term effects of NIBS in neurogenic dysphagia.

Nicergoline inhibits T-type Ca2+ channels in rat isolated hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurones.

PubMed Central

Takahashi, K.; Akaike, N.

1990-01-01

1. The effects of nicergoline on the T- and L-type Ca2+ currents in pyramidal cells freshly isolated from rat hippocampal CA1 region were investigated by use of a 'concentration-clamp' technique. The technique combines a suction-pipette technique, which allows intracellular perfusion under a single-electrode voltage-clamp, and rapid exchange of extracellular solution within 2 ms. 2. T-type Ca2+ currents were evoked by step depolarizations from a holding potential of -100 mV to potentials more positive than -70 to -60 mV, and reached a peak at about -30 mV in the current-voltage relationship. Activation and inactivation of T-type Ca2+ currents were highly potential-dependent. 3. Nicergoline and other Ca2+ antagonists dose-dependently blocked the T-type Ca2+ channel with an order of potency nicardipine greater than nicergoline greater than diltiazem. 4. The L-type Ca2+ channel was also blocked in the order nicardipine greater than nicergoline greater than diltiazem, although the T-type Ca2+ channel was more sensitive to nicergoline. 5. The inhibitory effects of nicergoline and nicardipine on the T-type Ca2+ current were voltage-, time-, and use-dependent, and the inhibition increased with a decrease in the external Ca2+ concentration. Diltiazem showed only a use-dependent block. PMID:2169937

Nicergoline inhibits T-type Ca2+ channels in rat isolated hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurones.

PubMed

Takahashi, K; Akaike, N

1990-08-01

1. The effects of nicergoline on the T- and L-type Ca2+ currents in pyramidal cells freshly isolated from rat hippocampal CA1 region were investigated by use of a 'concentration-clamp' technique. The technique combines a suction-pipette technique, which allows intracellular perfusion under a single-electrode voltage-clamp, and rapid exchange of extracellular solution within 2 ms. 2. T-type Ca2+ currents were evoked by step depolarizations from a holding potential of -100 mV to potentials more positive than -70 to -60 mV, and reached a peak at about -30 mV in the current-voltage relationship. Activation and inactivation of T-type Ca2+ currents were highly potential-dependent. 3. Nicergoline and other Ca2+ antagonists dose-dependently blocked the T-type Ca2+ channel with an order of potency nicardipine greater than nicergoline greater than diltiazem. 4. The L-type Ca2+ channel was also blocked in the order nicardipine greater than nicergoline greater than diltiazem, although the T-type Ca2+ channel was more sensitive to nicergoline. 5. The inhibitory effects of nicergoline and nicardipine on the T-type Ca2+ current were voltage-, time-, and use-dependent, and the inhibition increased with a decrease in the external Ca2+ concentration. Diltiazem showed only a use-dependent block.

Multimedia techniques for construction education and training : final report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-02-01

The current profession of civil engineering often focuses education and training on code compliance rather than constructability and construction techniques. Also, it is well accepted that it takes a decade or more for engineers to develop a high-lev...

Rapid Measurement and Correction of Phase Errors from B0 Eddy Currents: Impact on Image Quality for Non-Cartesian Imaging

PubMed Central

Brodsky, Ethan K.; Klaers, Jessica L.; Samsonov, Alexey A.; Kijowski, Richard; Block, Walter F.

2014-01-01

Non-Cartesian imaging sequences and navigational methods can be more sensitive to scanner imperfections that have little impact on conventional clinical sequences, an issue which has repeatedly complicated the commercialization of these techniques by frustrating transitions to multi-center evaluations. One such imperfection is phase errors caused by resonant frequency shifts from eddy currents induced in the cryostat by time-varying gradients, a phenomemon known as B0 eddy currents. These phase errors can have a substantial impact on sequences that use ramp sampling, bipolar gradients, and readouts at varying azimuthal angles. We present a method for measuring and correcting phase errors from B0 eddy currents and examine the results on two different scanner models. This technique yields significant improvements in image quality for high-resolution joint imaging on certain scanners. The results suggest that correction of short time B0 eddy currents in manufacturer provided service routines would simplify adoption of non-Cartesian sampling methods. PMID:22488532

Magnetic force microscopy/current contrast imaging: A new technique for internal current probing of ICs

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

Campbell, A.N.; Cole, E.I. Jr.; Dodd, B.A.

This invited paper describes recently reported work on the application of magnetic force microscopy (MFM) to image currents in IC conductors [1]. A computer model for MFM imaging of IC currents and experimental results demonstrating the ability to determine current direction and magnitude with a resolution of {approximately} 1 mA dc and {approximately} 1 {mu}A ac are presented. The physics of MFM signal generation and applications to current imaging and measurement are described.

A comparison of two neural network schemes for navigation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Munro, Paul W.

1989-01-01

Neural networks have been applied to tasks in several areas of artificial intelligence, including vision, speech, and language. Relatively little work has been done in the area of problem solving. Two approaches to path-finding are presented, both using neural network techniques. Both techniques require a training period. Training under the back propagation (BPL) method was accomplished by presenting representations of (current position, goal position) pairs as input and appropriate actions as output. The Hebbian/interactive activation (HIA) method uses the Hebbian rule to associate points that are nearby. A path to a goal is found by activating a representation of the goal in the network and processing until the current position is activated above some threshold level. BPL, using back-propagation learning, failed to learn, except in a very trivial fashion, that is equivalent to table lookup techniques. HIA, performed much better, and required storage of fewer weights. In drawing a comparison, it is important to note that back propagation techniques depend critically upon the forms of representation used, and can be sensitive to parameters in the simulations; hence the BPL technique may yet yield strong results.

A comparison of two neural network schemes for navigation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Munro, Paul

1990-01-01

Neural networks have been applied to tasks in several areas of artificial intelligence, including vision, speech, and language. Relatively little work has been done in the area of problem solving. Two approaches to path-finding are presented, both using neural network techniques. Both techniques require a training period. Training under the back propagation (BPL) method was accomplished by presenting representations of current position, goal position pairs as input and appropriate actions as output. The Hebbian/interactive activation (HIA) method uses the Hebbian rule to associate points that are nearby. A path to a goal is found by activating a representation of the goal in the network and processing until the current position is activated above some threshold level. BPL, using back-propagation learning, failed to learn, except in a very trivial fashion, that is equivalent to table lookup techniques. HIA, performed much better, and required storage of fewer weights. In drawing a comparison, it is important to note that back propagation techniques depend critically upon the forms of representation used, and can be sensitive to parameters in the simulations; hence the BPL technique may yet yield strong results.

Summary of Work for Joint Research Interchanges with DARWIN Integrated Product Team 1998

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hesselink, Lambertus

1999-01-01

The intent of Stanford University's SciVis group is to develop technologies that enabled comparative analysis and visualization techniques for simulated and experimental flow fields. These techniques would then be made available under the Joint Research Interchange for potential injection into the DARWIN Workspace Environment (DWE). In the past, we have focused on techniques that exploited feature based comparisons such as shock and vortex extractions. Our current research effort focuses on finding a quantitative comparison of general vector fields based on topological features. Since the method relies on topological information, grid matching and vector alignment is not needed in the comparison. This is often a problem with many data comparison techniques. In addition, since only topology based information is stored and compared for each field, there is a significant compression of information that enables large databases to be quickly searched. This report will briefly (1) describe current technologies in the area of comparison techniques, (2) will describe the theory of our new method and finally (3) summarize a few of the results.

Summary of Work for Joint Research Interchanges with DARWIN Integrated Product Team

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hesselink, Lambertus

1999-01-01

The intent of Stanford University's SciVis group is to develop technologies that enabled comparative analysis and visualization techniques for simulated and experimental flow fields. These techniques would then be made available un- der the Joint Research Interchange for potential injection into the DARWIN Workspace Environment (DWE). In the past, we have focused on techniques that exploited feature based comparisons such as shock and vortex extractions. Our current research effort focuses on finding a quantitative comparison of general vector fields based on topological features. Since the method relies on topological information, grid matching an@ vector alignment is not needed in the comparison. This is often a problem with many data comparison techniques. In addition, since only topology based information is stored and compared for each field, there is a significant compression of information that enables large databases to be quickly searched. This report will briefly (1) describe current technologies in the area of comparison techniques, (2) will describe the theory of our new method and finally (3) summarize a few of the results.

GaInNAsSb/GaAs vertical cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs): current challenges and techniques to realize multiple-wavelength laser arrays at 1.55 μm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gobet, Mathilde; Bae, Hopil P.; Sarmiento, Tomas; Harris, James S.

2008-02-01

Multiple-wavelength laser arrays at 1.55 μm are key components of wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) systems for increased bandwidth. Vertical cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs) grown on GaAs substrates outperform their InP counterparts in several points. We summarize the current challenges to realize continuous-wave (CW) GaInNAsSb VCSELs on GaAs with 1.55 μm emission wavelength and explain the work in progress to realize CW GaInNAsSb VCSELs. Finally, we detail two techniques to realize GaInNAsSb multiple-wavelength VCSEL arrays at 1.55 μm. The first technique involves the incorporation of a photonic crystal into the upper mirror. Simulation results for GaAs-based VCSEL arrays at 1.55 μm are shown. The second technique uses non-uniform molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). We have successfully demonstrated 1x6 resonant cavity light-emitting diode arrays at 850 nm using this technique, with wavelength spacing of 0.4 nm between devices and present these results.

77 FR 16158 - Current Good Manufacturing Practice in Manufacturing, Processing, Packing, or Holding of Drugs...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-03-20

... ``cut'' from a sheet or roll of labels--is used. Persistent problems with drug product mislabeling and... believe that development and use of advanced code scanning equipment has made many current electronic... and other advanced scanning techniques have made current electronic systems reliable to the 100...

Revolving Eddy-Current Probe Detects Cracks Near Rivets

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Namkung, Min; Wincheski, Buzz; Fulton, James P.; Nath, Shridhar; Simpson, John

1995-01-01

Scanning eddy-current probe in circular pattern increases sensitivity with which probe indicates fatigue cracks and other defects in metal surfaces in vicinity of rivets. Technique devised to facilitate inspection of riveted joints in aircraft. Eddy-current probe in question described in "Electro-magnetic Flaw Detector Is Easier To Use" (LAR-15046).

Design of a Programmable Gain, Temperature Compensated Current-Input Current-Output CMOS Logarithmic Amplifier.

PubMed

Ming Gu; Chakrabartty, Shantanu

2014-06-01

This paper presents the design of a programmable gain, temperature compensated, current-mode CMOS logarithmic amplifier that can be used for biomedical signal processing. Unlike conventional logarithmic amplifiers that use a transimpedance technique to generate a voltage signal as a logarithmic function of the input current, the proposed approach directly produces a current output as a logarithmic function of the input current. Also, unlike a conventional transimpedance amplifier the gain of the proposed logarithmic amplifier can be programmed using floating-gate trimming circuits. The synthesis of the proposed circuit is based on the Hart's extended translinear principle which involves embedding a floating-voltage source and a linear resistive element within a translinear loop. Temperature compensation is then achieved using a translinear-based resistive cancelation technique. Measured results from prototypes fabricated in a 0.5 μm CMOS process show that the amplifier has an input dynamic range of 120 dB and a temperature sensitivity of 230 ppm/°C (27 °C- 57°C), while consuming less than 100 nW of power.

Calibration tests on magnetic tape lightning current detectors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Crouch, K. E.

1980-01-01

The low cost, passive, peak lightning current detector (LCD) invented at the NASA/Kennedy Space Center, uses magnetic audio recording tape to sense the magnitude of the peak magnetic field around a conductor carrying lightning currents. Test results show that the length of audio tape erased was linearly related to the peak simulated lightning currents in a round conductor. Accuracies of + or - 10% were shown for measurements made using a stopwatch readout technique to determine the amount of tape erased by the lightning current. The stopwatch technique is a simple, low cost means of obtaining LCD readouts and can be used in the field to obtain immediate results. Where more accurate data are desired, the tape is played and the output recorded on a strip chart, oscilloscope, or some other means so that measurements can be made on that recording. Conductor dimensions, tape holder dimensions, and tape formulation must also be considered to obtain a more accurate result. If the shape of the conductor is other than circular (i.e., angle, channel, H-beam), an analysis of the magnetic field is required to use an LCD, especially at low current levels.

Feasibility of transcranial direct current stimulation use in children aged 5 to 12 years.

PubMed

Andrade, Agnes Carvalho; Magnavita, Guilherme Moreira; Allegro, Juleilda Valéria Brasil Nunes; Neto, Carlos Eduardo Borges Passos; Lucena, Rita de Cássia Saldanha; Fregni, Felipe

2014-10-01

Transcranial direct current stimulation is a noninvasive brain stimulation technique that has been studied for the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders in adults, with minimal side effects. The objective of this study is to report the feasibility, tolerability, and the short-term adverse effects of transcranial direct current stimulation in children from 5 to 12 years of age. It is a naturalistic study of 14 children who underwent 10 sessions of transcranial direct current stimulation as an alternative, off-label, and open-label treatment for various languages disorders. Frequency, intensity, adverse effects, and perception of improvement reported by parents were collected. The main side effects detected were tingling (28.6%) and itching (28.6%), acute mood changes (42.9%), and irritability (35.7%). Transcranial direct current stimulation is a feasible and tolerable technique in children, although studies regarding plastic and cognitive changes in children are needed to confirm its safety. In conclusion, this is a naturalistic report in which we considered transcranial direct current stimulation as feasible in children. © The Author(s) 2013.

Discrete square root filtering - A survey of current techniques.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kaminskii, P. G.; Bryson, A. E., Jr.; Schmidt, S. F.

1971-01-01

Current techniques in square root filtering are surveyed and related by applying a duality association. Four efficient square root implementations are suggested, and compared with three common conventional implementations in terms of computational complexity and precision. It is shown that the square root computational burden should not exceed the conventional by more than 50% in most practical problems. An examination of numerical conditioning predicts that the square root approach can yield twice the effective precision of the conventional filter in ill-conditioned problems. This prediction is verified in two examples.

The 'E' factor -- evolving endodontics.

PubMed

Hunter, M J

2013-03-01

Endodontics is a constantly developing field, with new instruments, preparation techniques and sealants competing with trusted and traditional approaches to tooth restoration. Thus general dental practitioners must question and understand the significance of these developments before adopting new practices. In view of this, the aim of this article, and the associated presentation at the 2013 British Dental Conference & Exhibition, is to provide an overview of endodontic methods and constantly evolving best practice. The presentation will review current preparation techniques, comparing rotary versus reciprocation, and question current trends in restoration of the endodontically treated tooth.

Elbow hemiarthroplasty for the management of distal humeral fractures: current technique, indications and results.

PubMed

Phadnis, Joideep; Watts, Adam C; Bain, Gregory I

2016-07-01

There has been a growing recent interest in the use of elbow hemiarthroplasty for the treatment of distal humeral trauma in select patients. However, the current available evidence regarding outcome after elbow hemiarthroplasty is limited to case series and biomechanical data. Consequently, the procedure remains unfamiliar to many surgeons. The aim of the present review is to outline the evidence regarding elbow hemiarthroplasty and to use this, along with the author's experience, to better describe the indications, surgical technique and outcomes after this procedure.

Elbow hemiarthroplasty for the management of distal humeral fractures: current technique, indications and results

PubMed Central

Watts, Adam C; Bain, Gregory I

2016-01-01

There has been a growing recent interest in the use of elbow hemiarthroplasty for the treatment of distal humeral trauma in select patients. However, the current available evidence regarding outcome after elbow hemiarthroplasty is limited to case series and biomechanical data. Consequently, the procedure remains unfamiliar to many surgeons. The aim of the present review is to outline the evidence regarding elbow hemiarthroplasty and to use this, along with the author’s experience, to better describe the indications, surgical technique and outcomes after this procedure. PMID:27583016

Noninvasive techniques for probing neurocircuitry and treating illness: vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)

PubMed Central

George, Mark S; Aston-Jones, Gary

2010-01-01

Although the preceding chapters discuss much of the new knowledge of neurocircuitry of neuropsychiatric diseases, and an invasive approach to treatment, this chapter describes and reviews the noninvasive methods of testing circuit-based theories and treating neuropsychiatric diseases that do not involve implanting electrodes into the brain or on its surface. These techniques are transcranial magnetic stimulation, vagus nerve stimulation, and transcranial direct current stimulation. Two of these approaches have FDA approval as therapies. PMID:19693003

Current trends and pitfalls in endoscopic treatment of urolithiasis.

PubMed

Inoue, Takaaki; Okada, Shinsuke; Hamamoto, Shuzo; Yoshida, Takashi; Matsuda, Tadashi

2018-02-01

Current development of endoscopic technology, lithotripters, and stone-retrieval devices has expanded the indications for retrograde and antegrade endoscopic therapy in the management of urolithiasis. This technology has also resulted in minimally invasive therapy. As surgeons' experience of endourological procedures with the newer instruments has become integrated, the surgical technique and indications for urolithiasis have also changed in the past few years. The present review provides an overview of endourological procedures for upper urinary tract stones and the key points related to surgical techniques. © 2017 The Japanese Urological Association.

Making Superconducting Welds between Superconducting Wires

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Penanen, Konstantin I.; Eom, Byeong Ho

2008-01-01

A technique for making superconducting joints between wires made of dissimilar superconducting metals has been devised. The technique is especially suitable for fabrication of superconducting circuits needed to support persistent electric currents in electromagnets in diverse cryogenic applications. Examples of such electromagnets include those in nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems and in superconducting quantum interference devices (SQUIDs). Sometimes, it is desirable to fabricate different parts of a persistent-current-supporting superconducting loop from different metals. For example, a sensory coil in a SQUID might be made of Pb, a Pb/Sn alloy, or a Cu wire plated with Pb/Sn, while the connections to the sensory coil might be made via Nb or Nb/Ti wires. Conventional wire-bonding techniques, including resistance spot welding and pressed contact, are not workable because of large differences between the hardnesses and melting temperatures of the different metals. The present technique is not subject to this limitation. The present technique involves the use (1) of a cheap, miniature, easy-to-operate, capacitor-discharging welding apparatus that has an Nb or Nb/Ti tip and operates with a continuous local flow of gaseous helium and (2) preparation of a joint in a special spark-discharge welding geometry. In a typical application, a piece of Nb foil about 25 m thick is rolled to form a tube, into which is inserted a wire that one seeks to weld to the tube (see figure). The tube can be slightly crimped for mechanical stability. Then a spark weld is made by use of the aforementioned apparatus with energy and time settings chosen to melt a small section of the niobium foil. The energy setting corresponds to the setting of a voltage to which the capacitor is charged. In an experiment, the technique was used to weld an Nb foil to a copper wire coated with a Pb/Sn soft solder, which is superconducting. The joint was evaluated as part of a persistent-current circuit having an inductance of 1 mH. A current was induced in a loop, and no attenuation of the current after a time interval 1,000 s was discernible in a measurement having a fractional accuracy of 10(exp -4): This observation supports the conclusion that the weld had an electrical resistance <10(exp -10) omega.

Determining Remaining Useful Life of Aging Cables in Nuclear Power Plants – Interim Study FY13

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

Simmons, Kevin L.; Fifield, Leonard S.; Westman, Matthew P.

2013-09-27

The most important criterion for cable performance is its ability to withstand a design-basis accident. With nearly 1000 km of power, control, instrumentation, and other cables typically found in an NPP, it would be a significant undertaking to inspect all of the cables. Degradation of the cable jacket, electrical insulation, and other cable components is a key issue that is likely to affect the ability of the currently installed cables to operate safely and reliably for another 20 to 40 years beyond the initial operating life. The development of one or more nondestructive evaluation (NDE) techniques and supporting models thatmore » could assist in determining the remaining life expectancy of cables or their current degradation state would be of significant interest. The ability to nondestructively determine material and electrical properties of cable jackets and insulation without disturbing the cables or connections has been deemed essential. Currently, the only technique accepted by industry to measure cable elasticity (the gold standard for determining cable insulation degradation) is the indentation measurement. All other NDE techniques are used to find flaws in the cable and do not provide information to determine the current health or life expectancy. There is no single NDE technique that can satisfy all of the requirements needed for making a life-expectancy determination, but a wide range of methods have been evaluated for use in NPPs as part of a continuous evaluation program. The commonly used methods are indentation and visual inspection, but these are only suitable for easily accessible cables. Several NDE methodologies using electrical techniques are in use today for flaw detection but there are none that can predict the life of a cable. There are, however, several physical and chemical ptoperty changes in cable insulation as a result of thermal and radiation damage. In principle, these properties may be targets for advanced NDE methods to provide early warning of aging and degradation. Examples of such key indicators include changes in chemical structure, mechanical modulus, and dielectric permittivity. While some of these indicators are the basis of currently used technologies, there is a need to increase the volume of cable that may be inspected with a single measurement, and if possible, to develop techniques for in-situ inspection (i.e., while the cable is in operation). This is the focus of the present report.« less

Reconstruction of F-Region Electric Current Densities from more than 2 Years of Swarm Satellite Magnetic data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tozzi, R.; Pezzopane, M.; De Michelis, P.; Pignalberi, A.; Siciliano, F.

2016-12-01

The constellation geometry adopted by ESA for Swarm satellites has opened the way to new investigations based on magnetic data. An example is the curl-B technique that allows reconstructing F-region electric current density in terms of its radial, meridional, and zonal components based on data from two satellites of Swarm constellation (Swarm A and B) which fly at different altitudes. Here, we apply this technique to more than 2 years of Swarm magnetic vector data and investigate the average large scale behaviour of F-region current densities as a function of local time, season and different interplanetary conditions (different strength and direction of the three IMF components and/or geomagnetic activity levels).

Brain Neuromodulation Techniques: A Review.

PubMed

Lewis, Philip M; Thomson, Richard H; Rosenfeld, Jeffrey V; Fitzgerald, Paul B

2016-08-01

The modulation of brain function via the application of weak direct current was first observed directly in the early 19th century. In the past 3 decades, transcranial magnetic stimulation and deep brain stimulation have undergone clinical translation, offering alternatives to pharmacological treatment of neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders. Further development of novel neuromodulation techniques employing ultrasound, micro-scale magnetic fields and optogenetics is being propelled by a rapidly improving understanding of the clinical and experimental applications of artificially stimulating or depressing brain activity in human health and disease. With the current rapid growth in neuromodulation technologies and applications, it is timely to review the genesis of the field and the current state of the art in this area. © The Author(s) 2016.

Aviation Safety: Modeling and Analyzing Complex Interactions between Humans and Automated Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rungta, Neha; Brat, Guillaume; Clancey, William J.; Linde, Charlotte; Raimondi, Franco; Seah, Chin; Shafto, Michael

2013-01-01

The on-going transformation from the current US Air Traffic System (ATS) to the Next Generation Air Traffic System (NextGen) will force the introduction of new automated systems and most likely will cause automation to migrate from ground to air. This will yield new function allocations between humans and automation and therefore change the roles and responsibilities in the ATS. Yet, safety in NextGen is required to be at least as good as in the current system. We therefore need techniques to evaluate the safety of the interactions between humans and automation. We think that current human factor studies and simulation-based techniques will fall short in front of the ATS complexity, and that we need to add more automated techniques to simulations, such as model checking, which offers exhaustive coverage of the non-deterministic behaviors in nominal and off-nominal scenarios. In this work, we present a verification approach based both on simulations and on model checking for evaluating the roles and responsibilities of humans and automation. Models are created using Brahms (a multi-agent framework) and we show that the traditional Brahms simulations can be integrated with automated exploration techniques based on model checking, thus offering a complete exploration of the behavioral space of the scenario. Our formal analysis supports the notion of beliefs and probabilities to reason about human behavior. We demonstrate the technique with the Ueberligen accident since it exemplifies authority problems when receiving conflicting advices from human and automated systems.

Kinetic Simulation and Energetic Neutral Atom Imaging of the Magnetosphere

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fok, Mei-Ching H.

2011-01-01

Advanced simulation tools and measurement techniques have been developed to study the dynamic magnetosphere and its response to drivers in the solar wind. The Comprehensive Ring Current Model (CRCM) is a kinetic code that solves the 3D distribution in space, energy and pitch-angle information of energetic ions and electrons. Energetic Neutral Atom (ENA) imagers have been carried in past and current satellite missions. Global morphology of energetic ions were revealed by the observed ENA images. We have combined simulation and ENA analysis techniques to study the development of ring current ions during magnetic storms and substorms. We identify the timing and location of particle injection and loss. We examine the evolution of ion energy and pitch-angle distribution during different phases of a storm. In this talk we will discuss the findings from our ring current studies and how our simulation and ENA analysis tools can be applied to the upcoming TRIO-CINAMA mission.

A Review of Three-Dimensional Printing in Tissue Engineering.

PubMed

Sears, Nick A; Seshadri, Dhruv R; Dhavalikar, Prachi S; Cosgriff-Hernandez, Elizabeth

2016-08-01

Recent advances in three-dimensional (3D) printing technologies have led to a rapid expansion of applications from the creation of anatomical training models for complex surgical procedures to the printing of tissue engineering constructs. In addition to achieving the macroscale geometry of organs and tissues, a print layer thickness as small as 20 μm allows for reproduction of the microarchitectures of bone and other tissues. Techniques with even higher precision are currently being investigated to enable reproduction of smaller tissue features such as hepatic lobules. Current research in tissue engineering focuses on the development of compatible methods (printers) and materials (bioinks) that are capable of producing biomimetic scaffolds. In this review, an overview of current 3D printing techniques used in tissue engineering is provided with an emphasis on the printing mechanism and the resultant scaffold characteristics. Current practical challenges and technical limitations are emphasized and future trends of bioprinting are discussed.

Determination of complex formation constants by phase sensitive alternating current polarography: Cadmium-polymethacrylic acid and cadmium-polygalacturonic acid.

PubMed

Garrigosa, Anna Maria; Gusmão, Rui; Ariño, Cristina; Díaz-Cruz, José Manuel; Esteban, Miquel

2007-10-15

The use of phase sensitive alternating current polarography (ACP) for the evaluation of complex formation constants of systems where electrodic adsorption is present has been proposed. The applicability of the technique implies the previous selection of the phase angle where contribution of capacitive current is minimized. This is made using Multivariate Curve Resolution by Alternating Least Squares (MCR-ALS) in the analysis of ACP measurements at different phase angles. The method is checked by the study of the complexation of Cd by polymethacrylic (PMA) and polygalacturonic (PGA) acids, and the optimal phase angles have been ca. -10 degrees for Cd-PMA and ca. -15 degrees for Cd-PGA systems. The goodness of phase sensitive ACP has been demonstrated comparing the determined complex formation constants with those obtained by reverse pulse polarography, a technique that minimizes the electrode adsorption effects on the measured currents.

Application of gamma-ray radiography and gravimetric measurements after accelerated corrosion tests of steel embedded in mortar

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

Duffó, Gustavo, E-mail: duffo@cnea.gov.ar; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas; Universidad Nacional de San Martín, Av. Gral. Paz 1499, 1650 San Martín, Buenos Aires

2015-08-15

The accelerated corrosion by the impressed current technique is widely used in studies of concrete durability since it has the advantage that tests can be carried out within reasonable periods of time. In the present work the relationship between the applied current density and the resulting damage on the reinforcing steel, by applying optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, gamma-ray radiography and gravimetric measurements, was studied by means of the implementation of accelerated corrosion tests on reinforced mortar. The results show that the efficiency of the applied current is between 1 and 77%, regardless of the applied current density, the water/cementmore » ratio and the mortar cover depth of the specimens. The results show the applicability of the gamma-ray radiography technique to detect localized corrosion of steel rebars in laboratory specimens.« less

Correlative analysis of hard and soft x ray observations of solar flares

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zarro, Dominic M.

1994-01-01

We have developed a promising new technique for jointly analyzing BATSE hard X-ray observations of solar flares with simultaneous soft X-ray observations. The technique is based upon a model in which electric currents and associated electric fields are responsible for the respective heating and particle acceleration that occur in solar flares. A useful by-product of this technique is the strength and evolution of the coronal electric field. The latter permits one to derive important flare parameters such as the current density, the number of current filaments composing the loop, and ultimately the hard X-ray spectrum produced by the runaway electrons. We are continuing to explore the technique by applying it to additional flares for which we have joint BATSE/Yohkoh observations. A central assumption of our analysis is the constant of proportionality alpha relating the hard X-ray flux above 50 keV and the rate of electron acceleration. For a thick-target model of hard X-ray production, it can be shown that cv is in fact related to the spectral index and low-energy cutoff of precipitating electrons. The next step in our analysis is to place observational constraints on the latter parameters using the joint BATSE/Yohkoh data.

Simultaneous recording of electrical activity and the underlying ionic currents in NG108-15 cells cultured on gold substrate.

PubMed

Acosta-García, Ma Cristina; Morales-Reyes, Israel; Jiménez-Anguiano, Anabel; Batina, Nikola; Castellanos, N P; Godínez-Fernández, R

2018-02-01

This paper shows the simultaneous recording of electrical activity and the underlying ionic currents by using a gold substrate to culture NG108-15 cells. Cells grown on two different substrates (plastic Petri dishes and gold substrates) were characterized quantitatively through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) as well as qualitatively by optical and atomic force microscopy (AFM). No significant differences were observed between the surface area of cells cultured on gold substrates and Petri dishes, as indicated by measurements performed on SEM images. We also evaluated the electrophysiological compatibility of the cells through standard patch-clamp experiments by analyzing features such as the resting potential, membrane resistance, ionic currents, etc. Cells grown on both substrates showed no significant differences in their dependency on voltage, as well as in the magnitude of the Na+ and K+ current density; however, cells cultured on the gold substrate showed a lower membrane capacitance when compared to those grown on Petri dishes. By using two separate patch-clamp amplifiers, we were able to record the membrane current with the conventional patch-clamp technique and through the gold substrate simultaneously. Furthermore, the proposed technique allowed us to obtain simultaneous recordings of the electrical activity (such as action potentials firing) and the underlying membrane ionic currents. The excellent conductivity of gold makes it possible to overcome important difficulties found in conventional electrophysiological experiments such as those presented by the resistance of the electrolytic bath solution. We conclude that the technique here presented constitutes a solution to the problem of the simultaneous recording of electrical activity and the underlying ionic currents, which for decades, had been solved only partially.

Two dimensional distribution measurement of electric current generated in a polymer electrolyte fuel cell using 49 NMR surface coils.

PubMed

Ogawa, Kuniyasu; Sasaki, Tatsuyoshi; Yoneda, Shigeki; Tsujinaka, Kumiko; Asai, Ritsuko

2018-05-17

In order to increase the current density generated in a PEFC (polymer electrolyte fuel cell), a method for measuring the spatial distribution of both the current and the water content of the MEA (membrane electrode assembly) is necessary. Based on the frequency shifts of NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) signals acquired from the water contained in the MEA using 49 NMR coils in a 7 × 7 arrangement inserted in the PEFC, a method for measuring the two-dimensional spatial distribution of electric current generated in a unit cell with a power generation area of 140 mm × 160 mm was devised. We also developed an inverse analysis method to determine the two-dimensional electric current distribution that can be applied to actual PEFC connections. Two analytical techniques, namely coarse graining of segments and stepwise search, were used to shorten the calculation time required for inverse analysis of the electric current map. Using this method and techniques, spatial distributions of electric current and water content in the MEA were obtained when the PEFC generated electric power at 100 A. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Posterior Mesh Tracheoplasty for Cervical Tracheomalacia: A Novel Trachea-Preserving Technique.

PubMed

Wilson, Jennifer L; Folch, Erik; Kent, Michael S; Majid, Adnan; Gangadharan, Sidhu P

2016-01-01

Tracheal resection or placement of airway prostheses (stents, tracheostomy tubes, or T tubes) are techniques currently used to treat severe cervical tracheomalacia. We have developed a new technique to secure a polypropylene splint to the posterior membrane of the cervical trachea in a patient with diffuse, acquired tracheobronchomalacia. This novel posterior tracheoplasty avoids anastomotic and intraluminal adverse events that may occur with existing techniques. Copyright © 2016 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Telepathology and Optical Biopsy

PubMed Central

Ferrer-Roca, Olga

2009-01-01

The ability to obtain information about the structure of tissue without taking a sample for pathology has opened the way for new diagnostic techniques. The present paper reviews all currently available techniques capable of producing an optical biopsy, with or without morphological images. Most of these techniques are carried out by physicians who are not specialized in pathology and therefore not trained to interpret the results as a pathologist would. In these cases, the use of telepathology or distant consultation techniques is essential. PMID:20339507

Measurement techniques and applications of charge transfer to aerospace research

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, A.

1978-01-01

A technique of developing high-velocity low-intensity neutral gas beams for use in aerospace research problems is described. This technique involves ionization of gaseous species with a mass spectrometer and focusing the resulting primary ion beam into a collision chamber containing a static gas at a known pressure and temperature. Equations are given to show how charge-transfer cross sections are obtained from a total-current measurement technique. Important parameters are defined for the charge-transfer process.

Innovative techniques for evaluating behavioral nutrition interventions

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Assessing outcomes and impact from behavioral nutrition interventions in the community has remained challenging for a variety of reasons. One main reason is the lack of methods available beyond traditional nutrition assessment tools and techniques. With current global obesity and related chronic dis...

Intelligent structural health monitoring of vehicular bridges using fiber optic sensors to detect acoustic emission.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-01-28

The recent collapse of the I-35W Mississippi River Bridge in Minneapolis has spawned a growing : interest in the development of reliable techniques for evaluating the structural integrity of civil : infrastructure. Current inspection techniques tailo...

Transportation informatics : advanced image processing techniques automated pavement distress evaluation.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-01-01

The current project, funded by MIOH-UTC for the period 1/1/2009- 4/30/2010, is concerned : with the development of the framework for a transportation facility inspection system using : advanced image processing techniques. The focus of this study is ...

Investigation of high-strength bolt-tightening verification techniques : tech transfer summary.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-03-01

The primary objective of this project was to explore the current state-of-practice and the state-of-the-art techniques for high-strength bolt tightening and verification in structural steel connections. This project was completed so that insight coul...

A REVIEW OF APPLICATIONS OF LUMINESCENCE TO MONITORING OF CHEMICAL CONTAMINANTS IN THE ENVIRONMENT

EPA Science Inventory

The recent analytical literature on the application of luminescence techniques to the measurement of various classes of environmentally significant chemicals has been reviewed. Luminescent spectroscopy based methods are compared to other current techniques. Also, examples of rece...

La formation aux techniques du travail universitaire et la notion de tache (Training in the Techniques of Academic Work and the Notion of Task).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Phillips, M. K.

1981-01-01

Discusses questions concerning training students in techniques of academic work and use of the English language in this context. These questions, currently researched at the English Language Center of King Abdulaziz University, focus on the notion of task as a minimal pedagogic unit, and on task-objective coordination criteria. Societe Nouvelle…

Non-destructive characterization of SiC coated carbon-carbon composites by multiple techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nixon, Thomas D.; Hemstad, Stan N.; Pfeifer, William H.

SiC coated carbon-carbon composites were evaluated using several non-destructive techniques as a means of quantifying the quality of both the coating and substrate. The techniques employed included dye penetrant infiltration, eddy current measurement, C-scan, and computed tomography (CT). The NDE results were then correlated to oxidation performance and destructive evaluations by electron and optical microscopy.

Principle of the electrically induced Transient Current Technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bronuzzi, J.; Moll, M.; Bouvet, D.; Mapelli, A.; Sallese, J. M.

2018-05-01

In the field of detector development for High Energy Physics, the so-called Transient Current Technique (TCT) is used to characterize the electric field profile and the charge trapping inside silicon radiation detectors where particles or photons create electron-hole pairs in the bulk of a semiconductor device, as PiN diodes. In the standard approach, the TCT signal originates from the free carriers generated close to the surface of a silicon detector, by short pulses of light or by alpha particles. This work proposes a new principle of charge injection by means of lateral PN junctions implemented in one of the detector electrodes, called the electrical TCT (el-TCT). This technique is fully compatible with CMOS technology and therefore opens new perspectives for assessment of radiation detectors performances.

Evaluation of eddy current and magnetic techniques for inspecting rebars in bridge barrier rails

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lo, C. C. H.; Nakagawa, N.

2013-01-01

This paper reports on a feasibility study of using eddy current (EC) and magnetic flux leakage (MFL) methods to detect corrosion damage in rebars that anchor concrete barrier rails to the road deck of bridge structures. EC and MFL measurements were carried out on standalone rebars with and without artificial defects of 25% and 50% material loss, using a commercial EC-based rebar locator and a MFL system that was developed using giant magnetoresistance sensors to detect leakage fluxes from the defects. Both techniques can readily detect the defects at a distance of 2.5″ (63.5 mm). The amplitudes of the EC and MFL signals vary monotonically with the amount of material loss, indicating the potential of using the techniques to quantify material loss of standalone rebars.

Nondestructive inspection assessment of eddy current and electrochemical analysis to separate inconel and stainless steel alloys

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

Moore, D.G.; Sorensen, N.R.

1998-02-01

This report presents a nondestructive inspection assessment of eddy current and electrochemical analysis to separate inconel alloys from stainless steel alloys as well as an evaluation of cleaning techniques to remove a thermal oxide layer on aircraft exhaust components. The results of this assessment are presented in terms of how effective each technique classifies a known exhaust material. Results indicate that either inspection technique can separate inconel and stainless steel alloys. Based on the experiments conducted, the electrochemical spot test is the optimum for use by airframe and powerplant mechanics. A spot test procedure is proposed for incorporation into themore » Federal Aviation Administration Advisory Circular 65-9A Airframe & Powerplant Mechanic - General Handbook. 3 refs., 70 figs., 7 tabs.« less

Magnetic Resonance Techniques Applied to the Diagnosis and Treatment of Parkinson’s Disease

PubMed Central

de Celis Alonso, Benito; Hidalgo-Tobón, Silvia S.; Menéndez-González, Manuel; Salas-Pacheco, José; Arias-Carrión, Oscar

2015-01-01

Parkinson’s disease (PD) affects at least 10 million people worldwide. It is a neurodegenerative disease, which is currently diagnosed by neurological examination. No neuroimaging investigation or blood biomarker is available to aid diagnosis and prognosis. Most effort toward diagnosis using magnetic resonance (MR) has been focused on the use of structural/anatomical neuroimaging and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). However, deep brain stimulation, a current strategy for treating PD, is guided by MR imaging (MRI). For clinical prognosis, diagnosis, and follow-up investigations, blood oxygen level-dependent MRI, DTI, spectroscopy, and transcranial magnetic stimulation have been used. These techniques represent the state of the art in the last 5 years. Here, we focus on MR techniques for the diagnosis and treatment of Parkinson’s disease. PMID:26191037

Multiparametric prostate MRI: technical conduct, standardized report and clinical use.

PubMed

Manfredi, Matteo; Mele, Fabrizio; Garrou, Diletta; Walz, Jochen; Fütterer, Jurgen J; Russo, Filippo; Vassallo, Lorenzo; Villers, Arnauld; Emberton, Mark; Valerio, Massimo

2018-02-01

Multiparametric prostate MRI (mp-MRI) is an emerging imaging modality for diagnosis, characterization, staging, and treatment planning of prostate cancer (PCa). The technique, results reporting, and its role in clinical practice have been the subject of significant development over the last decade. Although mp-MRI is not yet routinely used in the diagnostic pathway, almost all urological guidelines have emphasized the potential role of mp-MRI in several aspects of PCa management. Moreover, new MRI sequences and scanning techniques are currently under evaluation to improve the diagnostic accuracy of mp-MRI. This review presents an overview of mp-MRI, summarizing the technical applications, the standardized reporting systems used, and their current roles in various stages of PCa management. Finally, this critical review also reports the main limitations and future perspectives of the technique.

Continuum Modeling of Inductor Hysteresis and Eddy Current Loss Effects in Resonant Circuits

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

Pries, Jason L.; Tang, Lixin; Burress, Timothy A.

This paper presents experimental validation of a high-fidelity toroid inductor modeling technique. The aim of this research is to accurately model the instantaneous magnetization state and core losses in ferromagnetic materials. Quasi–static hysteresis effects are captured using a Preisach model. Eddy currents are included by coupling the associated quasi-static Everett function to a simple finite element model representing the inductor cross sectional area. The modeling technique is validated against the nonlinear frequency response from two different series RLC resonant circuits using inductors made of electrical steel and soft ferrite. The method is shown to accurately model shifts in resonant frequencymore » and quality factor. The technique also successfully predicts a discontinuity in the frequency response of the ferrite inductor resonant circuit.« less

Physicochemical characterization of allergens: quantity, identity, purity, aggregation and conformation.

PubMed

Koppelman, Stef J; Luykx, Dion M A M; de Jongh, Harmen H J; Veldhuizen, Willem Jan

2009-01-01

Allergens and allergoids can be characterized by means of physicochemical methods, resulting in a description of the protein on different structural levels. Several techniques are available and their suitability depends on the composition of the particular sample. Current European legislation on allergen products demands characterization of final products in particular focusing on identity, degree of modification (for allergoids) and stability of the composition. Structural parameters of allergens may be used to investigate the stability of an allergen product. The challenge is to identify and optimize techniques that allow determination of protein structure in the context of a formulated pharmaceutical product. As the majority of the products currently marketed are formulated with aluminium hydroxide or aluminium phosphate as a depot, most of the methods and techniques used for protein characterization in solution are not applicable. An additional hurdle is that allergen products are based on natural extracts, comprising a mixture of proteins, both allergens and non-allergens, sometimes in the presence of other uncharacterized components from the raw material. This paper describes which methods are suitable for the different stages of allergen product manufacturing, and how these relate to the current regulatory requirements. Some of the techniques are demonstrated using a model allergen, cod parvalbumin, and a chemically modified form thereof. We conclude that a variety of methods is available for characterization of proteins in solution, and that a limited number of techniques appear to be suitable for modified allergens (allergoids). Adaptation of existing methods, e.g. mass spectroscopy and infrared spectroscopy may be helpful to obtain protein parameters of allergens in a formulated allergen product. By choosing a combination of techniques, including those additional to physicochemical approaches, relevant parameters of allergens in formulated allergen products can be assessed in order to achieve a well-characterized pharmaceutical product.

GaAsBi/GaAs multi-quantum well LED grown by molecular beam epitaxy using a two-substrate-temperature technique.

PubMed

Patil, Pallavi Kisan; Luna, Esperanza; Matsuda, Teruyoshi; Yamada, Kohki; Kamiya, Keisuke; Ishikawa, Fumitaro; Shimomura, Satoshi

2017-03-10

We report a GaAs 0.96 Bi 0.04 /GaAs multiple quantum well (MQW) light emitting diode (LED) grown by molecular beam epitaxy using a two-substrate-temperature (TST) technique. In particular, the QWs and the barriers in the intrinsic region were grown at the different temperatures of [Formula: see text] = 350 °C and [Formula: see text] respectively. Investigations of the microstructure using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) reveal homogeneous MQWs free of extended defects. Furthermore, the local determination of the Bi distribution profile across the MQWs region using TEM techniques confirm the uniform Bi distribution, while revealing a slightly chemically graded GaAs-on-GaAsBi interface due to Bi surface segregation. Despite this small broadening, we found that Bi segregation is significantly reduced (up to 18% reduction) compared to previous reports on Bi segregation in GaAsBi/GaAs MQWs. Hence, the TST procedure proves as a very efficient method to reduce Bi segregation and thus increase the quality of the layers and interfaces. These improvements positively reflect in the optical properties. Room temperature photoluminescence and electroluminescence (EL) at 1.23 μm emission wavelength are successfully demonstrated using TST MQWs containing less Bi content than in previous reports. Finally, LED fabricated using the present TST technique show current-voltage (I-V) curves with a forward voltage of 3.3 V at an injection current of 130 mA under 1.0 kA cm -2 current excitation. These results not only demonstrate that TST technique provides optical device quality GaAsBi/GaAs MQWs but highlight the relevance of TST-based growth techniques on the fabrication of future heterostructure devices based on dilute bismides.

GaAsBi/GaAs multi-quantum well LED grown by molecular beam epitaxy using a two-substrate-temperature technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kisan Patil, Pallavi; Luna, Esperanza; Matsuda, Teruyoshi; Yamada, Kohki; Kamiya, Keisuke; Ishikawa, Fumitaro; Shimomura, Satoshi

2017-03-01

We report a GaAs0.96Bi0.04/GaAs multiple quantum well (MQW) light emitting diode (LED) grown by molecular beam epitaxy using a two-substrate-temperature (TST) technique. In particular, the QWs and the barriers in the intrinsic region were grown at the different temperatures of {T}{{GaAsBi}} = 350 °C and {T}{{GaAs}} = 550 ^\\circ {{C}}, respectively. Investigations of the microstructure using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) reveal homogeneous MQWs free of extended defects. Furthermore, the local determination of the Bi distribution profile across the MQWs region using TEM techniques confirm the uniform Bi distribution, while revealing a slightly chemically graded GaAs-on-GaAsBi interface due to Bi surface segregation. Despite this small broadening, we found that Bi segregation is significantly reduced (up to 18% reduction) compared to previous reports on Bi segregation in GaAsBi/GaAs MQWs. Hence, the TST procedure proves as a very efficient method to reduce Bi segregation and thus increase the quality of the layers and interfaces. These improvements positively reflect in the optical properties. Room temperature photoluminescence and electroluminescence (EL) at 1.23 μm emission wavelength are successfully demonstrated using TST MQWs containing less Bi content than in previous reports. Finally, LED fabricated using the present TST technique show current-voltage (I-V) curves with a forward voltage of 3.3 V at an injection current of 130 mA under 1.0 kA cm-2 current excitation. These results not only demonstrate that TST technique provides optical device quality GaAsBi/GaAs MQWs but highlight the relevance of TST-based growth techniques on the fabrication of future heterostructure devices based on dilute bismides.

Current and evolving echocardiographic techniques for the quantitative evaluation of cardiac mechanics: ASE/EAE consensus statement on methodology and indications endorsed by the Japanese Society of Echocardiography.

PubMed

Mor-Avi, Victor; Lang, Roberto M; Badano, Luigi P; Belohlavek, Marek; Cardim, Nuno Miguel; Derumeaux, Genevieve; Galderisi, Maurizio; Marwick, Thomas; Nagueh, Sherif F; Sengupta, Partho P; Sicari, Rosa; Smiseth, Otto A; Smulevitz, Beverly; Takeuchi, Masaaki; Thomas, James D; Vannan, Mani; Voigt, Jens-Uwe; Zamorano, Jose Luis

2011-03-01

Echocardiographic imaging is ideally suited for the evaluation of cardiac mechanics because of its intrinsically dynamic nature. Because for decades, echocardiography has been the only imaging modality that allows dynamic imaging of the heart, it is only natural that new, increasingly automated techniques for sophisticated analysis of cardiac mechanics have been driven by researchers and manufacturers of ultrasound imaging equipment. Several such techniques have emerged over the past decades to address the issue of reader's experience and inter-measurement variability in interpretation. Some were widely embraced by echocardiographers around the world and became part of the clinical routine, whereas others remained limited to research and exploration of new clinical applications. Two such techniques have dominated the research arena of echocardiography: (1) Doppler-based tissue velocity measurements, frequently referred to as tissue Doppler or myocardial Doppler, and (2) speckle tracking on the basis of displacement measurements. Both types of measurements lend themselves to the derivation of multiple parameters of myocardial function. The goal of this document is to focus on the currently available techniques that allow quantitative assessment of myocardial function via image-based analysis of local myocardial dynamics, including Doppler tissue imaging and speckle-tracking echocardiography, as well as integrated back- scatter analysis. This document describes the current and potential clinical applications of these techniques and their strengths and weaknesses, briefly surveys a selection of the relevant published literature while highlighting normal and abnormal findings in the context of different cardiovascular pathologies, and summarizes the unresolved issues, future research priorities, and recommended indications for clinical use.

Current and evolving echocardiographic techniques for the quantitative evaluation of cardiac mechanics: ASE/EAE consensus statement on methodology and indications endorsed by the Japanese Society of Echocardiography.

PubMed

Mor-Avi, Victor; Lang, Roberto M; Badano, Luigi P; Belohlavek, Marek; Cardim, Nuno Miguel; Derumeaux, Geneviève; Galderisi, Maurizio; Marwick, Thomas; Nagueh, Sherif F; Sengupta, Partho P; Sicari, Rosa; Smiseth, Otto A; Smulevitz, Beverly; Takeuchi, Masaaki; Thomas, James D; Vannan, Mani; Voigt, Jens-Uwe; Zamorano, José Luis

2011-03-01

Echocardiographic imaging is ideally suited for the evaluation of cardiac mechanics because of its intrinsically dynamic nature. Because for decades, echocardiography has been the only imaging modality that allows dynamic imaging of the heart, it is only natural that new, increasingly automated techniques for sophisticated analysis of cardiac mechanics have been driven by researchers and manufacturers of ultrasound imaging equipment.Several such technique shave emerged over the past decades to address the issue of reader's experience and inter measurement variability in interpretation.Some were widely embraced by echocardiographers around the world and became part of the clinical routine,whereas others remained limited to research and exploration of new clinical applications.Two such techniques have dominated the research arena of echocardiography: (1) Doppler based tissue velocity measurements,frequently referred to as tissue Doppler or myocardial Doppler, and (2) speckle tracking on the basis of displacement measurements.Both types of measurements lend themselves to the derivation of multiple parameters of myocardial function. The goal of this document is to focus on the currently available techniques that allow quantitative assessment of myocardial function via image-based analysis of local myocardial dynamics, including Doppler tissue imaging and speckle-tracking echocardiography, as well as integrated backscatter analysis. This document describes the current and potential clinical applications of these techniques and their strengths and weaknesses,briefly surveys a selection of the relevant published literature while highlighting normal and abnormal findings in the context of different cardiovascular pathologies, and summarizes the unresolved issues, future research priorities, and recommended indications for clinical use.

A Comparison of Several Techniques to Assign Heights to Cloud Tracers.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nieman, Steven J.; Schmetz, Johannes; Menzel, W. Paul

1993-09-01

Satellite-derived cloud-motion vector (CMV) production has been troubled by inaccurate height assignment of cloud tracers, especially in thin semitransparent clouds. This paper presents the results of an intercomparison of current operational height assignment techniques. Currently, heights are assigned by one of three techniques when the appropriate spectral radiance measurements are available. The infrared window (IRW) technique compares measured brightness temperatures to forecast temperature profiles and thus infers opaque cloud levels. In semitransparent or small subpixel clouds, the carbon dioxide (CO2) technique uses the ratio of radiances from different layers of the atmosphere to infer the correct cloud height. In the water vapor (H2O) technique, radiances influenced by upper-tropospheric moisture and IRW radiances are measured for several pixels viewing different cloud amounts, and their linear relationship is used to extrapolate the correct cloud height. The results presented in this paper suggest that the H2O technique is a viable alternative to the CO2 technique for inferring the heights of semitransparent cloud elements. This is important since future National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service (NESDIS) operations will have to rely on H20-derived cloud-height assignments in the wind field determinations with the next operational geostationary satellite. On a given day, the heights from the two approaches compare to within 60 110 hPa rms; drier atmospheric conditions tend to reduce the effectiveness of the H2O technique. By inference one can conclude that the present height algorithms used operationally at NESDIS (with the C02 technique) and at the European Satellite Operations Center (ESOC) (with their version of the H20 technique) are providing similar results. Sample wind fields produced with the ESOC and NESDIS algorithms using Meteosat-4 data show good agreement.

The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) survey: current trends in liposuction.

PubMed

Ahmad, Jamil; Eaves, Felmont F; Rohrich, Rod J; Kenkel, Jeffrey M

2011-02-01

The emergence of new technologies necessitates a study of current trends in liposuction and other methods for fat removal. The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) conducted a survey of its members to gain valuable information from Board-certified plastic surgeons about their experience with new technologies for fat removal and managing complications after liposuction. The ASAPS Current Trends in Liposuction Survey was emailed to 1713 ASAPS members. Data were tabulated and examined to determine current trends in liposuction and other fat removal techniques performed by ASAPS members. The response rate for the survey was 28.7% (n = 492). Most ASAPS respondents reported performing between 50 and 100 liposuction procedures annually. Most plastic surgeons currently employ or have previous experience with suction-assisted lipectomy/liposuction (SAL), ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL), and power-assisted liposuction, but fewer reported experience with laser-assisted liposuction (LAL), mesotherapy, or external, noninvasive devices. SAL was the preferred method of fat removal for 51.4%. UAL, LAL, and SAL were most commonly associated with complications. Only 10.5% of ASAPS members employ LAL; 38% have treated a patient with complications secondary to LAL. Valuable information about current trends in liposuction and other fat removal techniques has been gained from this survey. Although many studies have been published that review issues related to safety, morbidity, aesthetics, and recovery after different methods of fat removal, more prospective studies with standardized objective outcome measures comparing these techniques, particularly newer modalities, are needed to continue improving safety-related standards of care.

Contribution to the technique of landing large airships. Part I

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Krell, O

1929-01-01

Many treatises in regard to construction of airship sheds are lacking in data on air currents, for which reason this phase of the problem will be here thoroughly discussed in connection with the accompanying photographs of currents.

Educational Software: A Developer's Perspective.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Armstrong, Timothy C.; Loane, Russell F.

1994-01-01

Examines the current status and short-term future of computer software development in higher education. Topics discussed include educational advantages of software; current program development techniques, including object oriented programming; and market trends, including IBM versus Macintosh and multimedia programs. (LRW)

Dark Current Reduction of IR Detectors

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-10-19

demonstrating a novel dark current reduction approach for dense infrared detector arrays. This technique is based on the diffusion control junction (DCJ...fabricate and test detector arrays with and without DCJs on the same wafer and demonstrate the effectiveness of the DCJ approach in reducing dark current...subject to any penalty for failing to comply with a collection of information if it does not display a currently valid OMB control number. PLEASE

Comparison of Three Optical Methods for Measuring Model Deformation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Burner, A. W.; Fleming, G. A.; Hoppe, J. C.

2000-01-01

The objective of this paper is to compare the current state-of-the-art of the following three optical techniques under study by NASA for measuring model deformation in wind tunnels: (1) video photogrammetry, (2) projection moire interferometry, and (3) the commercially available Optotrak system. An objective comparison of these three techniques should enable the selection of the best technique for a particular test undertaken at various NASA facilities. As might be expected, no one technique is best for all applications. The techniques are also not necessarily mutually exclusive and in some cases can be complementary to one another.

PAPR reduction in FBMC using an ACE-based linear programming optimization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

van der Neut, Nuan; Maharaj, Bodhaswar TJ; de Lange, Frederick; González, Gustavo J.; Gregorio, Fernando; Cousseau, Juan

2014-12-01

This paper presents four novel techniques for peak-to-average power ratio (PAPR) reduction in filter bank multicarrier (FBMC) modulation systems. The approach extends on current PAPR reduction active constellation extension (ACE) methods, as used in orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM), to an FBMC implementation as the main contribution. The four techniques introduced can be split up into two: linear programming optimization ACE-based techniques and smart gradient-project (SGP) ACE techniques. The linear programming (LP)-based techniques compensate for the symbol overlaps by utilizing a frame-based approach and provide a theoretical upper bound on achievable performance for the overlapping ACE techniques. The overlapping ACE techniques on the other hand can handle symbol by symbol processing. Furthermore, as a result of FBMC properties, the proposed techniques do not require side information transmission. The PAPR performance of the techniques is shown to match, or in some cases improve, on current PAPR techniques for FBMC. Initial analysis of the computational complexity of the SGP techniques indicates that the complexity issues with PAPR reduction in FBMC implementations can be addressed. The out-of-band interference introduced by the techniques is investigated. As a result, it is shown that the interference can be compensated for, whilst still maintaining decent PAPR performance. Additional results are also provided by means of a study of the PAPR reduction of the proposed techniques at a fixed clipping probability. The bit error rate (BER) degradation is investigated to ensure that the trade-off in terms of BER degradation is not too severe. As illustrated by exhaustive simulations, the SGP ACE-based technique proposed are ideal candidates for practical implementation in systems employing the low-complexity polyphase implementation of FBMC modulators. The methods are shown to offer significant PAPR reduction and increase the feasibility of FBMC as a replacement modulation system for OFDM.

Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Garrell, Robin L.

1989-01-01

Reviews the basis for the technique and its experimental requirements. Describes a few examples of the analytical problems to which surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) has been and can be applied. Provides a perspective on the current limitations and frontiers in developing SERS as an analytical technique. (MVL)

40 CFR 68.28 - Alternative release scenario analysis.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... Consequence Analysis Guidance or any commercially or publicly available air dispersion modeling techniques, provided the techniques account for the specified modeling conditions and are recognized by industry as applicable as part of current practices. Proprietary models that account for the modeling conditions may be...

40 CFR 68.28 - Alternative release scenario analysis.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... Consequence Analysis Guidance or any commercially or publicly available air dispersion modeling techniques, provided the techniques account for the specified modeling conditions and are recognized by industry as applicable as part of current practices. Proprietary models that account for the modeling conditions may be...

40 CFR 68.28 - Alternative release scenario analysis.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... Consequence Analysis Guidance or any commercially or publicly available air dispersion modeling techniques, provided the techniques account for the specified modeling conditions and are recognized by industry as applicable as part of current practices. Proprietary models that account for the modeling conditions may be...

Effect of immunomagnetic bead size on recovery of foodborne pathogenic bacteria

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Long culture enrichment is currently a speed-limiting step in both traditional and rapid detection techniques for foodborne pathogens. Immunomagnetic separation (IMS) as a culture-free enrichment sample preparation technique has gained increasing popularity in the development of rapid detection met...

Overview of Nonelectronic Eye-Gaze Communication Techniques.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Goossens, Carol A.; Crain, Sharon S.

1987-01-01

The article discusses currently used eye gaze communication techniques with the severely physically disabled (eye-gaze vest, laptray, transparent display, and mirror/prism communicator), presents information regarding the types of message displays used to depict encoded material, and discusses the advantages of implementing nonelectronic eye-gaze…

EVALUATION OF A DNA PROBE TEST KIT FOR DETECTION OF SALMONELLAE IN BIOSOLIDS

EPA Science Inventory

Aims: Current United States regulations (40 CFR 503) for "Class A" biosolids requires use of multiple-tube fermentation techniques for fecal coliform or multiple tube enrichment techniques for Salmonella spp. followed by isolation and biochemical and serological confirmation. T...

Quantitative proteomics in the field of microbiology.

PubMed

Otto, Andreas; Becher, Dörte; Schmidt, Frank

2014-03-01

Quantitative proteomics has become an indispensable analytical tool for microbial research. Modern microbial proteomics covers a wide range of topics in basic and applied research from in vitro characterization of single organisms to unravel the physiological implications of stress/starvation to description of the proteome content of a cell at a given time. With the techniques available, ranging from classical gel-based procedures to modern MS-based quantitative techniques, including metabolic and chemical labeling, as well as label-free techniques, quantitative proteomics is today highly successful in sophisticated settings of high complexity such as host-pathogen interactions, mixed microbial communities, and microbial metaproteomics. In this review, we will focus on the vast range of techniques practically applied in current research with an introduction of the workflows used for quantitative comparisons, a description of the advantages/disadvantages of the various methods, reference to hallmark publications and presentation of applications in current microbial research. © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Micro-optical elements produced using an photo-embossing technique in photopolymers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

O'Neill, Feidhlim T.; Rowsome, Ita C.; Carr, Alun J.; Daniels, Stephen M.; Gleeson, Michael R.; Kelly, John V.; Close, Ciara; Lawrence, Justin R.; Sheridan, John T.

2005-09-01

Micro-optical devices are very important in current high-tech consumer items. The development of future products depends on both the evolution of fabrication techniques and on the development of new low cost mass production methods. Polymers offer ease of fabrication and low cost and are therefore excellent materials for the development of micro-optical devices. Polymer optical devices include passive optical elements, such as microlens arrays and waveguides, as well as active devices such as polymer based lasers. One of the most important areas of micro-optics is that of microlens design, manufacture and testing. The wide diversity of fabrication methods used for the production of these elements indicates their importance. One of these fabrication techniques is photo-embossing. The use of the photo-embossing technique and a photopolymer holographic recording material will be examined in this paper. A discussion of current attempts to model the fabrication process and a review of the experimental method will be given.

A Method to Estimate the Probability That Any Individual Cloud-to-Ground Lightning Stroke Was Within Any Radius of Any Point

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Huddleston, Lisa L.; Roeder, William P.; Merceret, Francis J.

2010-01-01

A new technique has been developed to estimate the probability that a nearby cloud-to-ground lightning stroke was within a specified radius of any point of interest. This process uses the bivariate Gaussian distribution of probability density provided by the current lightning location error ellipse for the most likely location of a lightning stroke and integrates it to determine the probability that the stroke is inside any specified radius of any location, even if that location is not centered on or even within the location error ellipse. This technique is adapted from a method of calculating the probability of debris collision with spacecraft. Such a technique is important in spaceport processing activities because it allows engineers to quantify the risk of induced current damage to critical electronics due to nearby lightning strokes. This technique was tested extensively and is now in use by space launch organizations at Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Air Force station.

Developing OSL Geological Dating Techniques for Use on Future Missions to Mars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Blair, M. W.; Kalchgruber, R.; Deo, S.; McKeever, S. W. S.

2005-01-01

The surface of Mars has been subject to aeolian, fluvial, and periglacial activity in the (relatively) recent past. Unfortunately, chronological dating of recent events on Mars is difficult as the errors associated with crater counting are comparable to younger ages (approx. 1 Ma). Consequently, techniques to quantify the ages of geological processes on Mars have become an important area of research. Optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dating is one candidate technique for in-situ dating of the deposition of Martian surface sediments. This method can aid in developing a geological and climatic history of the last million years on Mars. The current paper addresses some of the challenges and progress associated with developing OSL as a viable in-situ dating technique for Mars. Some of the challenges include the mineral composition, the effectiveness of solar resetting under Martian conditions, the temperature regime, and determining the natural dose rate on Mars. All of these topics are currently under investigation, and some preliminary results are presented.

Repair and tissue engineering techniques for articular cartilage

PubMed Central

Makris, Eleftherios A.; Gomoll, Andreas H.; Malizos, Konstantinos N.; Hu, Jerry C.; Athanasiou, Kyriacos A.

2015-01-01

Chondral and osteochondral lesions due to injury or other pathology commonly result in the development of osteoarthritis, eventually leading to progressive total joint destruction. Although current progress suggests that biologic agents can delay the advancement of deterioration, such drugs are incapable of promoting tissue restoration. The limited ability of articular cartilage to regenerate renders joint arthroplasty an unavoidable surgical intervention. This Review describes current, widely used clinical repair techniques for resurfacing articular cartilage defects; short-term and long-term clinical outcomes of these techniques are discussed. Also reviewed is a developmental pipeline of regenerative biological products that over the next decade could revolutionize joint care by functionally healing articular cartilage. These products include cell-based and cell-free materials such as autologous and allogeneic cell-based approaches and multipotent and pluripotent stem-cell-based techniques. Central to these efforts is the prominent role that tissue engineering has in translating biological technology into clinical products; therefore, concomitant regulatory processes are also discussed. PMID:25247412

Network Coding in Relay-based Device-to-Device Communications

PubMed Central

Huang, Jun; Gharavi, Hamid; Yan, Huifang; Xing, Cong-cong

2018-01-01

Device-to-Device (D2D) communications has been realized as an effective means to improve network throughput, reduce transmission latency, and extend cellular coverage in 5G systems. Network coding is a well-established technique known for its capability to reduce the number of retransmissions. In this article, we review state-of-the-art network coding in relay-based D2D communications, in terms of application scenarios and network coding techniques. We then apply two representative network coding techniques to dual-hop D2D communications and present an efficient relay node selecting mechanism as a case study. We also outline potential future research directions, according to the current research challenges. Our intention is to provide researchers and practitioners with a comprehensive overview of the current research status in this area and hope that this article may motivate more researchers to participate in developing network coding techniques for different relay-based D2D communications scenarios. PMID:29503504

Molecular imaging of inflammation and intraplaque vasa vasorum: A step forward to identification of vulnerable plaques?

PubMed Central

ten Kate, Gerrit L.; Sijbrands, Eric J. G.; Valkema, Roelf; ten Cate, Folkert J.; Feinstein, Steven B.; van der Steen, Antonius F. W.; Daemen, Mat J. A. P.

2010-01-01

Current developments in cardiovascular biology and imaging enable the noninvasive molecular evaluation of atherosclerotic vascular disease. Intraplaque neovascularization sprouting from the adventitial vasa vasorum has been identified as an independent predictor of intraplaque hemorrhage and plaque rupture. These intraplaque vasa vasorum result from angiogenesis, most likely under influence of hypoxic and inflammatory stimuli. Several molecular imaging techniques are currently available. Most experience has been obtained with molecular imaging using positron emission tomography and single photon emission computed tomography. Recently, the development of targeted contrast agents has allowed molecular imaging with magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound and computed tomography. The present review discusses the use of these molecular imaging techniques to identify inflammation and intraplaque vasa vasorum to identify vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques at risk of rupture and thrombosis. The available literature on molecular imaging techniques and molecular targets associated with inflammation and angiogenesis is discussed, and the clinical applications of molecular cardiovascular imaging and the use of molecular techniques for local drug delivery are addressed. PMID:20552308

Distribution of Region 1 and 2 currents in the quietand substorm time plasma sheetfrom THEMIS observations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, J.; Angelopoulos, V.; Chu, X.; McPherron, R. L.

2016-12-01

Although Earth's Region 1 and 2 currents are related to activities such as substorm initiation, their magnetospheric origin remains unclear. Utilizing the triangular configuration of THEMIS probes at 8-12 RE downtail, we seek the origin of nightside Region 1 and 2 currents. The triangular configuration allows a curlometer-like technique which do not rely on active-time boundary crossings, so we can examine the current distribution in quiet times as well as active times. Our statistical study reveals that both Region 1 and 2 currents exist in the plasma sheet during quiet and active times. Especially, this is the first unequivocal, in-situ evidence of the existence of Region 2 currents in the plasma sheet. Farther away from the neutral sheet than the Region 2 currents lie the Region 1 currents which extend at least to the plasma sheet boundary layer. At geomagnetic quiet times, the separation between the two currents is located 2.5 RE from the neutral sheet. These findings suggest that the plasma sheet is a source of Region 1 and 2 currents regardless of geomagnetic activity level. During substorms, the separation between Region 1 and 2 currents migrates toward (away from) the neutral sheet as the plasma sheet thins (thickens). This migration indicates that the deformation of Region 1 and 2 currents is associated with redistribution of FAC sources in the magnetotail. In some substorms when the THEMIS probes encounter a dipolarization, a substorm current wedge (SCW) can be inferred from our technique, and it shows a distinctively larger current density than the pre-existing Region 1 currents. This difference suggests that the SCW is not just an enhancement of the pre-existing Region 1 current; the SCW and the Region 1 currents have different sources.

Surface contamination analysis technology team overview

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Burns, H. Dewitt

1995-01-01

A team was established which consisted of representatives from NASA (Marshall Space Flight Center and Langley Research Center), Thiokol Corporation, the University of Alabama in Huntsville, AC Engineering, SAIC, Martin Marietta, and Aerojet. The team's purpose was to bring together the appropriate personnel to determine what surface inspection techniques were applicable to multiprogram bonding surface cleanliness inspection. In order to identify appropriate techniques and their sensitivity to various contaminant families, calibration standards were developed. Producing standards included development of consistent low level contamination application techniques. Oxidation was also considered for effect on inspection equipment response. Ellipsometry was used for oxidation characterization. Verification testing was then accomplished to show that selected inspection techniques could detect subject contaminants at levels found to be detrimental to critical bond systems of interest. Once feasibility of identified techniques was shown, selected techniques and instrumentation could then be incorporated into a multipurpose inspection head and integrated with a robot for critical surface inspection. Inspection techniques currently being evaluated include optically stimulated electron emission (OSEE); near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy utilizing fiber optics; Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy; and ultraviolet (UV) fluorescence. Current plans are to demonstrate an integrated system in MSFC's Productivity Enhancement Complex within five years from initiation of this effort in 1992 assuming appropriate funding levels are maintained. This paper gives an overview of work accomplished by the team and future plans.

A three-wavelength multi-channel brain functional imager based on digital lock-in photon-counting technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ding, Xuemei; Wang, Bingyuan; Liu, Dongyuan; Zhang, Yao; He, Jie; Zhao, Huijuan; Gao, Feng

2018-02-01

During the past two decades there has been a dramatic rise in the use of functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) as a neuroimaging technique in cognitive neuroscience research. Diffuse optical tomography (DOT) and optical topography (OT) can be employed as the optical imaging techniques for brain activity investigation. However, most current imagers with analogue detection are limited by sensitivity and dynamic range. Although photon-counting detection can significantly improve detection sensitivity, the intrinsic nature of sequential excitations reduces temporal resolution. To improve temporal resolution, sensitivity and dynamic range, we develop a multi-channel continuous-wave (CW) system for brain functional imaging based on a novel lock-in photon-counting technique. The system consists of 60 Light-emitting device (LED) sources at three wavelengths of 660nm, 780nm and 830nm, which are modulated by current-stabilized square-wave signals at different frequencies, and 12 photomultiplier tubes (PMT) based on lock-in photon-counting technique. This design combines the ultra-high sensitivity of the photon-counting technique with the parallelism of the digital lock-in technique. We can therefore acquire the diffused light intensity for all the source-detector pairs (SD-pairs) in parallel. The performance assessments of the system are conducted using phantom experiments, and demonstrate its excellent measurement linearity, negligible inter-channel crosstalk, strong noise robustness and high temporal resolution.

Superconducting Magnetometry for Cardiovascular Studies and AN Application of Adaptive Filtering.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leifer, Mark Curtis

Sensitive magnetic detectors utilizing Superconducting Quantum Interference Devices (SQUID's) have been developed and used for studying the cardiovascular system. The theory of magnetic detection of cardiac currents is discussed, and new experimental data supporting the validity of the theory is presented. Measurements on both humans and dogs, in both healthy and diseased states, are presented using the new technique, which is termed vector magnetocardiography. In the next section, a new type of superconducting magnetometer with a room temperature pickup is analyzed, and techniques for optimizing its sensitivity to low-frequency sub-microamp currents are presented. Performance of the actual device displays significantly improved sensitivity in this frequency range, and the ability to measure currents in intact, in vivo biological fibers. The final section reviews the theoretical operation of a digital self-optimizing filter, and presents a four-channel software implementation of the system. The application of the adaptive filter to enhancement of geomagnetic signals for earthquake forecasting is discussed, and the adaptive filter is shown to outperform existing techniques in suppressing noise from geomagnetic records.

Electron distribution functions in electric field environments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rudolph, Terence H.

1991-01-01

The amount of current carried by an electric discharge in its early stages of growth is strongly dependent on its geometrical shape. Discharges with a large number of branches, each funnelling current to a common stem, tend to carry more current than those with fewer branches. The fractal character of typical discharges was simulated using stochastic models based on solutions of the Laplace equation. Extension of these models requires the use of electron distribution functions to describe the behavior of electrons in the undisturbed medium ahead of the discharge. These electrons, interacting with the electric field, determine the propagation of branches in the discharge and the way in which further branching occurs. The first phase in the extension of the referenced models , the calculation of simple electron distribution functions in an air/electric field medium, is discussed. Two techniques are investigated: (1) the solution of the Boltzmann equation in homogeneous, steady state environments, and (2) the use of Monte Carlo simulations. Distribution functions calculated from both techniques are illustrated. Advantages and disadvantages of each technique are discussed.

The post-humanist embryo: genetic manipulation, assisted reproductive technologies and the Principle of Procreative Beneficence.

PubMed

Güell Pelayo, Francisco

2014-01-01

Drawing from Julian Savulescu's argument for the obligation to use technological interventions for the enhancement human life, the Principle of Procreative Beneficence (PPB) states that parents have a moral obligation to use available reproductive technologies, including techniques of genetic manipulation, to create children who have the best chance of enjoying the best possible life. The aim of this study is to analyse the extent to which the possibility of using genetic manipulation to promote specific personality traits and thereby enhance human life is actually supported by current scientific knowledge and to determine whether the techniques employed in embryo selection comply with the PPB. In light of this analysis, the importance of involving the scientific community in the enhancement debate will be made clear. Moreover, when current knowledge of genetic and epigenetic processes and evidence of the risks of assisted reproductive technologies are taken into account, we find sufficient reason - even when guided by the PPB - to abstain from the use of current techniques of genetic manipulation and embryonic selection.

Strain gage selection in loads equations using a genetic algorithm

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1994-01-01

Traditionally, structural loads are measured using strain gages. A loads calibration test must be done before loads can be accurately measured. In one measurement method, a series of point loads is applied to the structure, and loads equations are derived via the least squares curve fitting algorithm using the strain gage responses to the applied point loads. However, many research structures are highly instrumented with strain gages, and the number and selection of gages used in a loads equation can be problematic. This paper presents an improved technique using a genetic algorithm to choose the strain gages used in the loads equations. Also presented are a comparison of the genetic algorithm performance with the current T-value technique and a variant known as the Best Step-down technique. Examples are shown using aerospace vehicle wings of high and low aspect ratio. In addition, a significant limitation in the current methods is revealed. The genetic algorithm arrived at a comparable or superior set of gages with significantly less human effort, and could be applied in instances when the current methods could not.

Lateral Augmentation Procedures in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: Anatomic, Biomechanical, Imaging, and Clinical Evidence.

PubMed

Weber, Alexander E; Zuke, William; Mayer, Erik N; Forsythe, Brian; Getgood, Alan; Verma, Nikhil N; Bach, Bernard R; Bedi, Asheesh; Cole, Brian J

2018-02-01

There has been an increasing interest in lateral-based soft tissue reconstructive techniques as augments to anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). The objective of these procedures is to minimize anterolateral rotational instability of the knee after surgery. Despite the relatively rapid increase in surgical application of these techniques, many clinical questions remain. To provide a comprehensive update on the current state of these lateral-based augmentation procedures by reviewing the origins of the surgical techniques, the biomechanical data to support their use, and the clinical results to date. Systematic review. A systematic search of the literature was conducted via the Medline, EMBASE, Scopus, SportDiscus, and CINAHL databases. The search was designed to encompass the literature on lateral extra-articular tenodesis (LET) procedures and the anterolateral ligament (ALL) reconstruction. Titles and abstracts were reviewed for relevance and sorted into the following categories: anatomy, biomechanics, imaging/diagnostics, surgical techniques, and clinical outcomes. The search identified 4016 articles. After review for relevance, 31, 53, 27, 35, 45, and 78 articles described the anatomy, biomechanics, imaging/diagnostics, surgical techniques, and clinical outcomes of either LET procedures or the ALL reconstruction, respectively. A multitude of investigations were available, revealing controversy in addition to consensus in several categories. The level of evidence obtained from this search was not adequate for systematic review or meta-analysis; thus, a current concepts review of the anatomy, biomechanics, imaging, surgical techniques, and clinical outcomes was performed. Histologically, the ALL appears to be a distinct structure that can be identified with advanced imaging techniques. Biomechanical evidence suggests that the anterolateral structures of the knee, including the ALL, contribute to minimizing anterolateral rotational instability. Cadaveric studies of combined ACLR-LET procedures demonstrated overconstraint of the knee; however, these findings have yet to be reproduced in the clinical literature. The current indications for LET augmentation in the setting of ACLR and the effect on knee kinematic and joint preservation should be the subject of future research.

Osteoporosis Imaging: State of the Art and Advanced Imaging

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Osteoporosis is becoming an increasingly important public health issue, and effective treatments to prevent fragility fractures are available. Osteoporosis imaging is of critical importance in identifying individuals at risk for fractures who would require pharmacotherapy to reduce fracture risk and also in monitoring response to treatment. Dual x-ray absorptiometry is currently the state-of-the-art technique to measure bone mineral density and to diagnose osteoporosis according to the World Health Organization guidelines. Motivated by a 2000 National Institutes of Health consensus conference, substantial research efforts have focused on assessing bone quality by using advanced imaging techniques. Among these techniques aimed at better characterizing fracture risk and treatment effects, high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (CT) currently plays a central role, and a large number of recent studies have used this technique to study trabecular and cortical bone architecture. Other techniques to analyze bone quality include multidetector CT, magnetic resonance imaging, and quantitative ultrasonography. In addition to quantitative imaging techniques measuring bone density and quality, imaging needs to be used to diagnose prevalent osteoporotic fractures, such as spine fractures on chest radiographs and sagittal multidetector CT reconstructions. Radiologists need to be sensitized to the fact that the presence of fragility fractures will alter patient care, and these fractures need to be described in the report. This review article covers state-of-the-art imaging techniques to measure bone mineral density, describes novel techniques to study bone quality, and focuses on how standard imaging techniques should be used to diagnose prevalent osteoporotic fractures. © RSNA, 2012 PMID:22438439

Overview: MURI Center on spectroscopic and time domain detection of trace explosives in condensed and vapor phases

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Spicer, James B.; Dagdigian, Paul; Osiander, Robert; Miragliotta, Joseph A.; Zhang, Xi-Cheng; Kersting, Roland; Crosley, David R.; Hanson, Ronald K.; Jeffries, Jay

2003-09-01

The research center established by Army Research Office under the Multidisciplinary University Research Initiative program pursues a multidisciplinary approach to investigate and advance the use of complementary analytical techniques for sensing of explosives and/or explosive-related compounds as they occur in the environment. The techniques being investigated include Terahertz (THz) imaging and spectroscopy, Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS), Cavity Ring Down Spectroscopy (CRDS) and Resonance Enhanced Multiphoton Ionization (REMPI). This suite of techniques encompasses a diversity of sensing approaches that can be applied to detection of explosives in condensed phases such as adsorbed species in soil or can be used for vapor phase detection above the source. Some techniques allow for remote detection while others have highly specific and sensitive analysis capabilities. This program is addressing a range of fundamental, technical issues associated with trace detection of explosive related compounds using these techniques. For example, while both LIBS and THz can be used to carry-out remote analysis of condensed phase analyte from a distance in excess several meters, the sensitivities of these techniques to surface adsorbed explosive-related compounds are not currently known. In current implementations, both CRDS and REMPI require sample collection techniques that have not been optimized for environmental applications. Early program elements will pursue the fundamental advances required for these techniques including signature identification for explosive-related compounds/interferents and trace analyte extraction. Later program tasks will explore simultaneous application of two or more techniques to assess the benefits of sensor fusion.

Modulation and coding used by a major satellite communications company

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Renshaw, K. H.

1992-01-01

Hughes Communications Inc., is a major satellite communications company providing or planning to provide the full spectrum of services available on satellites. All of the current services use conventional modulation and coding techniques that were well known a decade or longer ago. However, the future mobile satellite service will use significantly more advanced techniques. JPL, under NASA sponsorship, has pioneered many of the techniques that will be used.

The community development workshop, appendix B.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brill, R.; Gastro, E.; Pennington, A. J.

1973-01-01

The Community Development Workshop is the name given to a collection of techniques designed to implement participation in the planning process. It is an electric approach, making use of current work in the psychology of groups, mathematical modeling and systems analysis, simulation gaming, and other techniques. An outline is presented for a session of the workshop which indicates some of the psychological techniques employed, i.e. confrontation, synectics, and encounter micro-labs.

Applications of CFD and visualization techniques

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Saunders, James H.; Brown, Susan T.; Crisafulli, Jeffrey J.; Southern, Leslie A.

1992-01-01

In this paper, three applications are presented to illustrate current techniques for flow calculation and visualization. The first two applications use a commercial computational fluid dynamics (CFD) code, FLUENT, performed on a Cray Y-MP. The results are animated with the aid of data visualization software, apE. The third application simulates a particulate deposition pattern using techniques inspired by developments in nonlinear dynamical systems. These computations were performed on personal computers.

A short review on a complication of lumbar spine surgery: CSF leak.

PubMed

Menon, Sajesh K; Onyia, Chiazor U

2015-12-01

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak is a common complication of surgery involving the lumbar spine. Over the past decades, there has been significant advancement in understanding the basis, management and techniques of treatment for post-operative CSF leak following lumbar spine surgery. In this article, we review previous work in the literature on the various factors and technical errors during or after lumbar spine surgery that may lead to this feared complication, the available options of management with focus on the various techniques employed, the outcomes and also to highlight on the current trends. We also discuss the presentation, factors contributing to its development, basic concepts and practical aspects of the management with emphasis on the different techniques of treatment. Different outcomes following various techniques of managing post-operative CSF leak after lumbar spine surgery have been well described in the literature. However, there is currently no most ideal technique among the available options. The choice of which technique to be applied in each case is dependent on each surgeon's cumulative experience as well as a clear understanding of the contributory underlying factors in each patient, the nature and site of the leak, the available facilities and equipment. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Karst topography : noninvasive geophysical detection methods and construction techniques.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-10-01

The objective of this project was to investigate the current state of the practice with regards to karst detection : methods and current karst construction practices and to recommend the best practices for use by the Virginia : Department of Transpor...

Reproducible Bioinformatics Research for Biologists

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

This book chapter describes the current Big Data problem in Bioinformatics and the resulting issues with performing reproducible computational research. The core of the chapter provides guidelines and summaries of current tools/techniques that a noncomputational researcher would need to learn to pe...

Obsessive-compulsive dimension localized using low-resolution brain electromagnetic tomography (LORETA).

PubMed

Sherlin, Leslie; Congedo, Marco

2005-10-21

Electroencephalographic mapping techniques have been used to show differences between normal subjects and those diagnosed with various mental disorders. To date, there is no other research using the techniques of low-resolution brain electromagnetic tomography (LORETA) with the obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) population. The current investigation compares current source density measures of persons with OCD symptoms to an age-matched control group. The main finding is excess current source density in the Beta frequencies in the cingulate gyrus. This Beta activity is primarily located in the middle cingulate gyrus as well as adjacent frontal parieto-occipital regions. Lower frequency Beta is prominent more anteriorly in the cingulate gyrus whereas higher frequency Beta is seen more posteriorly. These preliminary findings indicate the utility of LORETA as a clinical and diagnostic tool.

Low-Power Photoplethysmogram Acquisition Integrated Circuit with Robust Light Interference Compensation.

PubMed

Kim, Jongpal; Kim, Jihoon; Ko, Hyoungho

2015-12-31

To overcome light interference, including a large DC offset and ambient light variation, a robust photoplethysmogram (PPG) readout chip is fabricated using a 0.13-μm complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) process. Against the large DC offset, a saturation detection and current feedback circuit is proposed to compensate for an offset current of up to 30 μA. For robustness against optical path variation, an automatic emitted light compensation method is adopted. To prevent ambient light interference, an alternating sampling and charge redistribution technique is also proposed. In the proposed technique, no additional power is consumed, and only three differential switches and one capacitor are required. The PPG readout channel consumes 26.4 μW and has an input referred current noise of 260 pArms.

Low-Power Photoplethysmogram Acquisition Integrated Circuit with Robust Light Interference Compensation

PubMed Central

Kim, Jongpal; Kim, Jihoon; Ko, Hyoungho

2015-01-01

To overcome light interference, including a large DC offset and ambient light variation, a robust photoplethysmogram (PPG) readout chip is fabricated using a 0.13-μm complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (CMOS) process. Against the large DC offset, a saturation detection and current feedback circuit is proposed to compensate for an offset current of up to 30 μA. For robustness against optical path variation, an automatic emitted light compensation method is adopted. To prevent ambient light interference, an alternating sampling and charge redistribution technique is also proposed. In the proposed technique, no additional power is consumed, and only three differential switches and one capacitor are required. The PPG readout channel consumes 26.4 μW and has an input referred current noise of 260 pArms. PMID:26729122

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and language

PubMed Central

Monti, Alessia; Ferrucci, Roberta; Fumagalli, Manuela; Mameli, Francesca; Cogiamanian, Filippo; Ardolino, Gianluca; Priori, Alberto

2013-01-01

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), a non-invasive neuromodulation technique inducing prolonged brain excitability changes and promoting cerebral plasticity, is a promising option for neurorehabilitation. Here, we review progress in research on tDCS and language functions and on the potential role of tDCS in the treatment of post-stroke aphasia. Currently available data suggest that tDCS over language-related brain areas can modulate linguistic abilities in healthy individuals and can improve language performance in patients with aphasia. Whether the results obtained in experimental conditions are functionally important for the quality of life of patients and their caregivers remains unclear. Despite the fact that important variables are yet to be determined, tDCS combined with rehabilitation techniques seems a promising therapeutic option for aphasia. PMID:23138766

Spectromicroscopy and coherent diffraction imaging: focus on energy materials applications.

PubMed

Hitchcock, Adam P; Toney, Michael F

2014-09-01

Current and future capabilities of X-ray spectromicroscopy are discussed based on coherence-limited imaging methods which will benefit from the dramatic increase in brightness expected from a diffraction-limited storage ring (DLSR). The methods discussed include advanced coherent diffraction techniques and nanoprobe-based real-space imaging using Fresnel zone plates or other diffractive optics whose performance is affected by the degree of coherence. The capabilities of current systems, improvements which can be expected, and some of the important scientific themes which will be impacted are described, with focus on energy materials applications. Potential performance improvements of these techniques based on anticipated DLSR performance are estimated. Several examples of energy sciences research problems which are out of reach of current instrumentation, but which might be solved with the enhanced DLSR performance, are discussed.

Rescue Manual. Module 2.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ohio State Univ., Columbus. Instructional Materials Lab.

This learner manual for rescuers covers the current techniques or practices required in the rescue service. The second of 10 modules contains 5 chapters: (1) patient care and handling techniques; (2) rescue carries and drags; (3) emergency vehicle operations; (4) self-contained breathing apparatus; and (5) protective clothing. Key points, an…

Scheduling techniques in the Request Oriented Scheduling Engine (ROSE)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zoch, David R.

1991-01-01

Scheduling techniques in the ROSE are presented in the form of the viewgraphs. The following subject areas are covered: agenda; ROSE summary and history; NCC-ROSE task goals; accomplishments; ROSE timeline manager; scheduling concerns; current and ROSE approaches; initial scheduling; BFSSE overview and example; and summary.

Rescue Manual. Module 8.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ohio State Univ., Columbus. Instructional Materials Lab.

This learner manual for rescuers covers the current techniques or practices required in the rescue service. The eighth of 10 modules contains 6 chapters: (1) trench rescue; (2) shoring and tunneling techniques; (3) farm accident rescue; (4) wilderness search and rescue; (5) aircraft rescue; and (6) helicopter information. Key points, an…

College Students' Therapy Preferences: The Role of Psychological Mindedness

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Price, Jennifer L.

2016-01-01

The current study examined expectations and preferences of psychotherapy approach in 225 college students. Psychodynamic-interpersonal (PI) techniques were generally favored over cognitive-behavioral (CB) techniques both in expectations of what is characteristic of a typical therapy session and perceived helpfulness. There was no difference in…

Active control of large space structures: An introduction and overview

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Doane, G. B., III; Tollison, D. K.; Waites, H. B.

1985-01-01

An overview of the large space structure (LSS) control system design problem is presented. The LSS is defined as a class of system, and LSS modeling techniques are discussed. Model truncation, control system objectives, current control law design techniques, and particular problem areas are discussed.

Interactive Querying Techniques for an Office Filing Facility.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Morrissey, J. M.; And Others

1986-01-01

Proposes a "Model of Querying" for users of office filing facilities and discusses its motivation, aspects, attributes, and advantages. A review of current information systems and attempts to combine information retrieval, artificial intelligence, and database management techniques leads to conclusion that no resultant system is adequate…

Prediction of firmness and soluble solids content of blueberries using hyperspectral reflectance imaging

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Currently, blueberries are inspected and sorted by color, size and/or firmness (or softness) in packinghouses, using different inspection techniques like machine vision and mechanical vibration or impact. A new inspection technique is needed for effectively assessing both external features and inter...

Contesting Contained Bodily Coaching Experiences

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Johnson, Richard

2013-01-01

Through critical readings of several images and texts, including photographs and artifacts in this collected montage, my aim here is to use multiple interactional analyses (visual culture techniques and deconstructive techniques) to assist in the critique of these presented visual images that represent current coaching policies in the USA.

Qualitative and quantitative analysis of lignocellulosic biomass using infrared techniques: A mini-review

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Current wet chemical methods for biomass composition analysis using two-step sulfuric acid hydrolysis are time-consuming, labor-intensive, and unable to provide structural information about biomass. Infrared techniques provide fast, low-cost analysis, are non-destructive, and have shown promising re...

Modeling Laser Effects on Imaging Spacecraft Using the SSM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Buehler, P.; Smith, J.; Farmer, J.; Bonn, D.

The Satellite Survivability Module (SSM) is an end-to-end, physics-based, performance prediction model for directed energy engagement of orbiting spacecraft. Two engagement types are currently supported: laser engagement of the focal plane array of an imaging spacecraft; and Radio Frequency (RF) engagement of spacecraft components. For laser engagements, the user creates a spacecraft, its optical system, any protection techniques used by the optical system, a laser threat, and an atmosphere through which the laser will pass. For RF engagements, the user creates a spacecraft (as a set of subsystem components), any protection techniques, and an RF source. SSM then models the engagement and its impact on the spacecraft using four impact levels: degradation, saturation, damage, and destruction. Protection techniques, if employed, will mitigate engagement effects. SSM currently supports several two laser and three RF protection techniques. SSM allows the user to create and implement a variety of "what if" scenarios. Satellites can be placed in a variety of orbits. Threats can be placed anywhere on the Earth. Satellites and threats can be mixed and matched to examine possibilities. Protection techniques for a particular spacecraft can be turned on or off individually; and can be arranged in any order to simulate more complicated protection schemes. Results can be displayed as 2-D or 3-D visualizations, or as textual reports. In order to test SSM capabilities, the Ball team used it to model engagement scenarios for a space experiment scheduled for the 2011 time frame. SSM was created by Ball Aerospace & Technologies Corp. Systems Engineering Solutions in Albuquerque, New Mexico as an add-on module for the Satellite Tool Kit (STK). The current version of SSM (1.0) interfaces with STK through the Programmer's Library (STK/PL). Future versions of SSM will employ STK/Connect to provide the user access to STK functionality. The work is currently funded by the Air Force Research Laboratory, Space Vehicles directorate at Kirtland AFB, New Mexico, under contract number FA9453-06-C-0096.

Reduction of degradation in vapor phase transported InP/InGaAsP mushroom stripe lasers

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

Jung, H.; Burkhardt, E.G.; Pfister, W.

1988-10-03

The rapid degradation rate generally observed in InP/InGaAsP mushroom stripe lasers can be considerably decreased by regrowing the open sidewalls of the active stripe with low-doped InP in a second epitaxial step using the hydride vapor phase transport technique. This technique does not change the fundamental laser parameters like light-current and current-voltage characteristics. Because of this drastic reduction in degradation, the vapor phase epitaxy regrown InP/InGaAsP mushroom laser seems to be an interesting candidate for application in optical communication.

An update on oral hygiene products and techniques.

PubMed

Laing, Emma; Ashley, Paul; Gill, Daljit; Naini, Farhad

2008-05-01

The aim of this article is to update the reader on oral hygiene products and techniques. The evidence relating to the range of toothbrushing, interdental cleaning products and chemotherapeutic agents currently on the market will be discussed. It will be seen that choice of many of the oral hygiene products currently on the market is still largely a matter of personal preference. An inadequate oral hygiene regime may lead to caries and periodontal disease. It is important for clinicians to be able to recommend a preventive programme for dental and periodontal health that is supported by high quality, evidence-based clinical research.

Thin Film Electrodes with an Integral Current Collection Grid for Use with Solid Electrolytes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ryan, M. A.; Kisor, A.; Williams, R. M.; Jeffries-Nakamura, B.; O'Connor, D.

1994-01-01

Thin film, high performance electrodes which can operate in high temperature environments are necessary for many devices which use a solid electrolyte. Electrodes of rhodium-tungsten alloy have been deposited on solid electrolyte using photolytic chemical vapor deposition (PCVD). A technique for depositing electrodes and current collection grids simultaneously has been developed using the prenucleation characteristics of PCVD. This technique makes it possible to fabricate electrodes which allow vapor transport through the thin (<1 (micro)m) portions of the electrode while integral thick grid lines improve the electronic conductivity of the electrode, thus improving overall performance.

Development and current applications of assisted fertilization.

PubMed

Palermo, Gianpiero D; Neri, Queenie V; Monahan, Devin; Kocent, Justin; Rosenwaks, Zev

2012-02-01

Since the very early establishment of in vitro insemination, it became clear that one of the limiting steps is the achievement of fertilization. Among the different assisted fertilization methods, intracytoplasmic sperm injection emerged as the ultimate technique to allow fertilization with ejaculated, epididymal, and testicular spermatozoa. This work describes the early steps that brought forth the development of intracytoplasmic sperm injection and its role in assisted reproductive techniques. The current methods to select the preferential male gamete will be elucidated and the concerns related to the offspring of severe male factor couples will be discussed. Copyright © 2012. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Ion transfer through solvent polymeric membranes driven by an exponential current flux.

PubMed

Molina, A; Torralba, E; González, J; Serna, C; Ortuño, J A

2011-03-21

General analytical equations which govern ion transfer through liquid membranes with one and two polarized interfaces driven by an exponential current flux are derived. Expressions for the transient and stationary E-t, dt/dE-E and dI/dE-E curves are obtained, and the evolution from transient to steady behaviour has been analyzed in depth. We have also shown mathematically that the voltammetric and stationary chronopotentiometric I(N)-E curves are identical (with E being the applied potential for voltammetric techniques and the measured potential for chronopotentiometric techniques), and hence, their derivatives provide identical information.

Methods and application of system identification in shock and vibration.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Collins, J. D.; Young, J. P.; Kiefling, L.

1972-01-01

A logical picture is presented of current useful system identification techniques in the shock and vibration field. A technology tree diagram is developed for the purpose of organizing and categorizing the widely varying approaches according to the fundamental nature of each. Specific examples of accomplished activity for each identification category are noted and discussed. To provide greater insight into the most current trends in the system identification field, a somewhat detailed description is presented of the essential features of a recently developed technique that is based on making the maximum use of all statistically known information about a system.

Research and development of improved geothermal well logging techniques, tools and components (current projects, goals and status). Final report

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

Lamers, M.D.

One of the key needs in the advancement of geothermal energy is availability of adequate subsurface measurements to aid the reservoir engineer in the development and operation of geothermal wells. Some current projects being sponsored by the U. S. Department of Energy's Division of Geothermal Energy pertaining to the development of improved well logging techniques, tools and components are described. An attempt is made to show how these projects contribute to improvement of geothermal logging technology in forming key elements of the overall program goals.

Role of imaging in testicular cancer: current and future practice.

PubMed

Barrisford, Glen W; Kreydin, Evgeniy I; Preston, Mark A; Rodriguez, Dayron; Harisighani, Mukesh G; Feldman, Adam S

2015-09-01

The article provides a summary of the epidemiologic and clinical aspects of testicular malignancy. Current standard imaging and novel techniques are reviewed. Present data and clinical treatment trends have favored surveillance protocols over adjuvant radiation or chemotherapy for low-stage testicular malignancy. This has resulted in increasing numbers of imaging studies and the potential for increased long-term exposure risks. Understanding imaging associated risks as well as strategies to minimize these risks is of increasing importance. The development, validation and incorporation of alternative lower risk highly efficacious and cost-effective imaging techniques is essential.

Application of ECT inspection to the first wall of a fusion reactor with wavelet analysis

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

Chen, G.; Yoshida, Y.; Miya, K.

1994-12-31

The first wall of a fusion reactor will be subjected to intensive loads during fusion operations. Since these loads may cause defects in the first wall, nondestructive evaluation techniques of the first wall should be developed. In this paper, we try to apply eddy current testing (ECT) technique to the inspection of the first wall. A method based on current vector potential and wavelet analysis is proposed. Owing to the use of wavelet analysis, a new theory developed recently, the accuracy of the present method is shown to be better than a conventional one.

Echocardiographic Evaluation of Left Atrial Mechanics: Function, History, Novel Techniques, Advantages, and Pitfalls.

PubMed

Leischik, Roman; Littwitz, Henning; Dworrak, Birgit; Garg, Pankaj; Zhu, Meihua; Sahn, David J; Horlitz, Marc

2015-01-01

Left atrial (LA) functional analysis has an established role in assessing left ventricular diastolic function. The current standard echocardiographic parameters used to study left ventricular diastolic function include pulsed-wave Doppler mitral inflow analysis, tissue Doppler imaging measurements, and LA dimension estimation. However, the above-mentioned parameters do not directly quantify LA performance. Deformation studies using strain and strain-rate imaging to assess LA function were validated in previous research, but this technique is not currently used in routine clinical practice. This review discusses the history, importance, and pitfalls of strain technology for the analysis of LA mechanics.

Management of Low-Flow Vascular Malformations: Clinical Presentation, Classification, Patient Selection, Imaging and Treatment

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

McCafferty, Ian, E-mail: ian.mccafferty@uhb.nhs.uk

This review article aims to give an overview of the current state of imaging, patient selection, agents and techniques used in the management of low-flow vascular malformations. The review includes the current classifications for low-flow vascular malformations including the 2014 updates. Clinical presentation and assessment is covered with a detailed section on the common sclerosant agents used to treat low-flow vascular malformations, including dosing and common complications. Imaging is described with a guide to a simple stratification of the use of imaging for diagnosis and interventional techniques.