CRITICAL TESTS FOR PRT REACTOR

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

Triplett, J.R.; Anderson, J.K.; Dunn, R.E.

1960-07-01

Critical teste to be performed on the Plutonium Recycle Te st Heactor are described. Exponential, approach-tocritical, critical, and substitution experiments will be carried out. These experiments include: calibration of moderator level; determination of the wori of various fuel loadings; calibration of the shim system including determination of maximum control strength of the entire system; substitution experiments to determine reflector savings, void effects, effects of H/sub 2/O and degraded D/sub 2/O coolants, and effects of loop and other material intsllations; determination of fuel-plus-coolant and moderator temperature coefficients; and kinetic experiments to determine response of the reactor to reactivity changes. (M.C.G.)

Transverse stress effect on the critical current of jelly-roll multifilamentary Nb sub 3 Al wires

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

Zeritis, D.; Ando, T.; Takahashi, Y.

Experiments were conducted to determine the transverse stress sensitivity of the critical current ({ital I}{sub {ital c}}) of jelly-roll multifilamentary Nb{sub 3}Al wires at 8 and 12 T. For comparison, similar experiments were conducted on bronze-process (NbTi){sub 3}Sn wires. At 12 T and under a transverse compressive stress of 150 MPa{emdash}conditions expected in fusion magnets{emdash}the {ital I}{sub {ital c}} degradation of the Nb{sub 3}Al specimen was {similar to}20% vs {similar to}65% for the (NbTi){sub 3}Sn specimen. The intrinsic superiority of Nb{sub 3}Al over (NbTi){sub 3}Sn with regard to transverse compressive stress is thus clear. There is optimism that Nb{sub 3}Almore » will eventually become a useful superconductor for large-scale, high-field applications.« less

Investigation of ion kinetic effects in direct-drive exploding-pusher implosions at the NIF

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

Rosenberg, M. J., E-mail: mrosenbe@mit.edu; Zylstra, A. B.; Séguin, F. H.

Measurements of yield, ion temperature, areal density (ρR), shell convergence, and bang time have been obtained in shock-driven, D{sub 2} and D{sup 3}He gas-filled “exploding-pusher” inertial confinement fusion (ICF) implosions at the National Ignition Facility to assess the impact of ion kinetic effects. These measurements probed the shock convergence phase of ICF implosions, a critical stage in hot-spot ignition experiments. The data complement previous studies of kinetic effects in shock-driven implosions. Ion temperature and fuel ρR inferred from fusion-product spectroscopy are used to estimate the ion-ion mean free path in the gas. A trend of decreasing yields relative to themore » predictions of 2D DRACO hydrodynamics simulations with increasing Knudsen number (the ratio of ion-ion mean free path to minimum shell radius) suggests that ion kinetic effects are increasingly impacting the hot fuel region, in general agreement with previous results. The long mean free path conditions giving rise to ion kinetic effects in the gas are often prevalent during the shock phase of both exploding pushers and ablatively driven implosions, including ignition-relevant implosions.« less

Noninterceptive transverse emittance measurements using BPM for Chinese ADS R&D project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Zhi-Jun; Feng, Chi; He, Yuan; Dou, Weiping; Tao, Yue; Chen, Wei-long; Jia, Huan; Liu, Shu-hui; Wang, Wang-sheng; Zhang, Yong; Wu, Jian-qiang; Zhang, Sheng-hu; Zhang, X. L.

2016-04-01

The noninterceptive four-dimensional transverse emittance measurements are essential for commissioning the high power continue-wave (CW) proton linacs as well as their operations. The conventional emittance measuring devices such as slits and wire scanners are not well suited under these conditions due to sure beam damages. Therefore, the method of using noninterceptive Beam Position Monitor (BPM) is developed and demonstrated on Injector Scheme II at the Chinese Accelerator Driven Sub-critical System (China-ADS) proofing facility inside Institute of Modern Physics (IMP) [1]. The results of measurements are in good agreements with wire scanners and slits at low duty-factor pulsed (LDFP) beam. In this paper, the detailed experiment designs, data analysis and result benchmarking are presented.

Studies on Materials for Heavy-Liquid-Metal-Cooled Reactors in Japan

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

Minoru Takahashi; Masayuki Igashira; Toru Obara

2002-07-01

Recent studies on materials for the development of lead-bismuth (Pb-Bi)-cooled fast reactors (FR) and accelerator-driven sub-critical systems (ADS) in Japan are reported. The measurement of the neutron cross section of Bi to produce {sup 210}Po, the removal experiment of Po contamination and steel corrosion test in Pb-Bi flow were performed in Tokyo Institute of Technology. A target material corrosion test was performed in the project of Transmutation Experimental Facility for ADS in Japan Atomic Energy Research Institute (JAERI). Steel corrosion test was started in Mitsui Engineering and Shipbuilding Co., LTD (MES). The feasibility study for FR cycle performed in Japanmore » Nuclear Cycle Institute (JNC) are described. (authors)« less

Novel Y doped Bi{sub 2}WO{sub 6} photocatalyst: Hydrothermal fabrication, characterization and enhanced visible-light-driven photocatalytic activity for Rhodamine B degradation and photocurrent generation

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

Cao, Ranran; Huang, Hongwei, E-mail: hhw@cugb.edu.cn; Tian, Na

2015-03-15

Visible-light-driven (VLD) Yttrium (Y) ion doped Bi{sub 2}WO{sub 6} photocatalyst has been synthesized via a facile hydrothermal route. Incorporation of Y{sup 3} {sup +} into Bi{sub 2}WO{sub 6} lattice was successfully confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and ICP analysis. The microstructure and optical property of the as-prepared samples have been characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), nitrogen adsorption–desorption isotherm and UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS). The photocatalytic experiments indicated that the Y-Bi{sub 2}WO{sub 6} showed a much higher photocatalytic activity than the pristine Bi{sub 2}WO{sub 6} for the degradation of Rhodamine Bmore » (RhB) and photocurrent (PC) generation. This enhancement should be ascribed to the slightly increased band gap and the generated defects by Y{sup 3} {sup +} doping, thus resulting in a much lower recombination rate of the photoinduced electrons and holes. Such a process was verified by the photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. In addition, the active species trapping experiments indicated that holes (h{sup +}) and superoxide radicals (·O{sub 2}{sup −}) play important roles in the photocatalytic reaction. - Highlights: • Novel Y-Bi{sub 2}WO{sub 6} photocatalyst has been synthesized by a facile hydrothermal route. • Y-Bi{sub 2}WO{sub 6} exhibits a much higher photocatalytic activity than pristine Bi{sub 2}WO{sub 6}. • Holes (h{sup +}) and superoxide radicals (·O{sub 2}{sup −}) are the two main active species. • Y{sup 3} {sup +} ion can result in a low recombination of photogenerated electron and hole.« less

Turbidity of a Binary Fluid Mixture: Determining Eta

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jacobs, Donald T.

1996-01-01

A ground based (1-g) experiment is in progress that will measure the turbidity of a density-matched, binary fluid mixture extremely close to its liquid-liquid critical point. By covering the range of reduced temperatures t equivalent to (T-T(sub c)) / T(sub c) from 10(exp -8) to 10(exp -2), the turbidity measurements will allow the critical exponent eta to be determined. No experiment has precisely determined a value of the critical exponent eta, yet its value is significant to theorists in critical phenomena. Relatively simple critical phenomena, as in the liquid-liquid system studied here, serve as model systems for more complex systems near a critical point.

Moessbauer effect: Study of disordered magnetic systems

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

Chang, Xiao Sha.

1989-01-01

This dissertation describes Moessbauer spectroscopy studies of two chemically disordered binary, crystalline alloys having the composition A{sub 1-x}B{sub x}. Both systems are random 3d Heisenberg ferromagnets. In each case both A and B atoms carry a magnetic moment. The first study concerns a Moessbauer absorber experiment on Fe{sub 1-x} V{sub x}, in which the disorder in the critical region is of the annealed random exchange type. To eliminate the effect of concentration inhomogeneity, the measurement of the critical exponent {beta} was done on the alloy with x = 0.125, where dT{sub C}/dx = 0, yielding {beta} = 0.362(8) over themore » reduced temperature range 1.4 {times} 10{sup {minus}3} < t < 4.88 {times} 10{sup {minus}1}. This result confirms the theoretical prediction that the annealed disorder is irrelevant to critical behavior in this case. As expected the critical exponent {beta} is consistent with the expectation for the 3d Heisenberg model as well as the measured exponent of pure Fe. The second study involves a Moessbauer source experiment on {sup 57} CoPd{sub 0.80}Co{sub 0.20}, in which disorder is of the quenched random exchange type perturbed by a very weak random anisotropy interaction. The critical exponent {beta} deduced over the range 1 {times} 10{sup {minus}2} < t < 2 {times} 10{sup {minus}1} is 0.385(20), and is consistent with the theoretical prediction for quenched disordered 3d Heisenberg systems: the disorder is irrelevant to the critical behavior. However, because of the restricted range of reduced temperature, the result is insufficiently asymptotic to serve as a conclusive test of the theory. Outside the critical region the distribution of Fe{sup 57} hyperfine field in Pd{sub 0.80}Co{sub 0.20} is observed to have an anomalous temperature dependence characterized by a linear increase in the width of the field distribution for T/T{sub C} {ge} 0.6.« less

Texturing of high T(sub c) superconducting polycrystalline fibers/wires by laser-driven directional solidification in an thermal gradient

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Varshney, Usha; Eichelberger, B. Davis, III

1995-01-01

This paper summarizes the technique of laser-driven directional solidification in a controlled thermal gradient of yttria stabilized zirconia core coated Y-Ba-Cu-O materials to produce textured high T(sub c) superconducting polycrystalline fibers/wires with improved critical current densities in the extended range of magnetic fields at temperatures greater than 77 K. The approach involves laser heating to minimize phase segregation by heating very rapidly through the two-phase incongruent melt region to the single phase melt region and directionally solidifying in a controlled thermal gradient to achieve highly textured grains in the fiber axis direction. The technique offers a higher grain growth rate and a lower thermal budget compared with a conventional thermal gradient and is amenable as a continuous process for improving the J(sub c) of high T(sub c) superconducting polycrystalline fibers/wires. The technique has the advantage of suppressing weak-link behavior by orientation of crystals, formation of dense structures with enhanced connectivity, formation of fewer and cleaner grain boundaries, and minimization of phase segregation in the incongruent melt region.

Temporal and spatial profiles of emission intensities in atmospheric pressure helium plasma jet driven by microsecond pulse: Experiment and simulation

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

Wang, Ruixue; Zhang, Cheng; Yan, Ping

2015-09-28

A needle-circular electrode structure helium plasma jet driven by microsecond pulsed power is studied. Spatially resolved emission results show that the emission intensity of He(3{sup 3}S{sub 1}) line decreases monotonically along the axial direction, while those of N{sub 2}(C{sup 3}Π{sub u}), N{sub 2}{sup +}(B{sup 2}∑{sup +}{sub u}), and O(3p{sup 5}P) reach their maxima at 3 cm, 2.6 cm, and 1.4 cm, respectively. The plasma plume of the four species shows different characteristics: The N{sub 2} emission plume travels at a fast speed along the entire plasma jet; the N{sub 2}{sup +} emission plume is composed of a bright head and relatively weak tailmore » and travels a shorter distance than the N{sub 2} emission plume; the He emission plume travels at a slower speed for only a very short distance; propagation of the O emission plume is not observed. Results of calculation of radiation fluxes emitted by positive streamers propagating along helium plasma jets are presented. It is shown, in agreement with the results of the present experiment and with other available experimental data, that the intensities of radiation of N{sub 2}(C{sup 3}Π{sub u}) molecules and He(3{sup 3}S{sub 1}) atoms vary with time (along the plasma jet) quite differently. The factors resulting in this difference are discussed.« less

Recent results of the OPERA experiment

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

Pupilli, F.

The OPERA experiment at the Gran Sasso underground laboratory has been designed to study the ν{sub µ} → ν{sub τ} oscillation in appearance mode in the CNGS neutrino beam. Five ν{sub τ} candidate events have been confirmed so far, using a sub-sample of data from the 2008-2012 runs. Given the low background level, the discovery of ν{sub µ} → ν{sub τ} oscillations has been established with a significance of 5.1 σ. In this paper the data analysis is discussed, with emphasis on the background constraints obtained by using dedicated data-driven control samples. The analysis of the τ neutrino and electronmore » neutrino data in the framework of the 3+1 sterile neutrino model are presented. The measurement of the muon charge ratio in the collected cosmic ray sample is also reported.« less

Data-driven region-of-interest selection without inflating Type I error rate.

PubMed

Brooks, Joseph L; Zoumpoulaki, Alexia; Bowman, Howard

2017-01-01

In ERP and other large multidimensional neuroscience data sets, researchers often select regions of interest (ROIs) for analysis. The method of ROI selection can critically affect the conclusions of a study by causing the researcher to miss effects in the data or to detect spurious effects. In practice, to avoid inflating Type I error rate (i.e., false positives), ROIs are often based on a priori hypotheses or independent information. However, this can be insensitive to experiment-specific variations in effect location (e.g., latency shifts) reducing power to detect effects. Data-driven ROI selection, in contrast, is nonindependent and uses the data under analysis to determine ROI positions. Therefore, it has potential to select ROIs based on experiment-specific information and increase power for detecting effects. However, data-driven methods have been criticized because they can substantially inflate Type I error rate. Here, we demonstrate, using simulations of simple ERP experiments, that data-driven ROI selection can indeed be more powerful than a priori hypotheses or independent information. Furthermore, we show that data-driven ROI selection using the aggregate grand average from trials (AGAT), despite being based on the data at hand, can be safely used for ROI selection under many circumstances. However, when there is a noise difference between conditions, using the AGAT can inflate Type I error and should be avoided. We identify critical assumptions for use of the AGAT and provide a basis for researchers to use, and reviewers to assess, data-driven methods of ROI localization in ERP and other studies. © 2016 Society for Psychophysiological Research.

Analysis of benchmark critical experiments with ENDF/B-VI data sets

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

Hardy, J. Jr.; Kahler, A.C.

1991-12-31

Several clean critical experiments were analyzed with ENDF/B-VI data to assess the adequacy of the data for U{sup 235}, U{sup 238} and oxygen. These experiments were (1) a set of homogeneous U{sup 235}-H{sub 2}O assemblies spanning a wide range of hydrogen/uranium ratio, and (2) TRX-1, a simple, H{sub 2}O-moderated Bettis lattice of slightly-enriched uranium metal rods. The analyses used the Monte Carlo program RCP01, with explicit three-dimensional geometry and detailed representation of cross sections. For the homogeneous criticals, calculated k{sub crit} values for large, thermal assemblies show good agreement with experiment. This supports the evaluated thermal criticality parameters for U{supmore » 235}. However, for assemblies with smaller H/U ratios, k{sub crit} values increase significantly with increasing leakage and flux-spectrum hardness. These trends suggest that leakage is underpredicted and that the resonance eta of the ENDF/B-VI U{sup 235} is too large. For TRX-1, reasonably good agreement is found with measured lattice parameters (reaction-rate ratios). Of primary interest is rho28, the ratio of above-thermal to thermal U{sup 238} capture. Calculated rho28 is 2.3 ({+-} 1.7) % above measurement, suggesting that U{sup 238} resonance capture remains slightly overpredicted with ENDF/B-VI. However, agreement is better than observed with earlier versions of ENDF/B.« less

g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4}/NaTaO{sub 3} organic–inorganic hybrid nanocomposite: High-performance and recyclable visible light driven photocatalyst

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

Kumar, Santosh; Kumar, Bharat; Surendar, T.

2014-01-01

Graphical abstract: High-performance and recyclable visible-light driven g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4}/NaTaO{sub 3} hybrid nanocomposite photocatalysts have been prepared by a facile ultrasonic dispersion method. The hybrid nanocomposite photocatalyst can be promising photocatalytic material for practical application in water splitting and environmental remediation. - Highlights: • Novel g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4}/NaTaO{sub 3} nanocomposites as a high performance and recyclable photocatalysts. • These catalysts exhibited significantly enhanced photocatalytic activity under UV–visible light irradiation. • More attractively, dramatic activity is generated under visible light irradiation due to the g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4} loaded. • Interestingly, the as-prepared hybrid nanocomposites possess high reusability. - Abstract: Novel g-C{submore » 3}N{sub 4}/NaTaO{sub 3} hybrid nanocomposites have been prepared by a facile ultrasonic dispersion method. Our results clearly show the formation of interface between NaTaO{sub 3} and g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4} and further loading of g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4} did not affect the crystal structure and morphology of NaTaO{sub 3}. The g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4}/NaTaO{sub 3} nanocomposites exhibited enhanced photocatalytic performance for the degradation of Rhodamine B under UV–visible and visible light irradiation compared to pure NaTaO{sub 3} and Degussa P25. Interestingly, the visible light photocatalytic activity is generated due to the loading of g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4}. A mechanism is proposed to discuss the enhanced photocatalytic activity based on trapping experiments of photoinduced radicals and holes. Under visible light irradiation, electron excited from the valance band (VB) to conduction band (CB) of g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4} could directly inject into the CB of NaTaO{sub 3}, making g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4}/NaTaO{sub 3} visible light driven photocatalyst. Since the as-prepared hybrid nanocomposites possess high reusability therefore it can be promising photocatalyst for environmental applications.« less

Susceptibility Measurements Near the He-3 Liquid-Gas Critical Point

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barmatz, Martin; Zhong, Fang; Hahn, Inseob

2000-01-01

An experiment is now being developed to measure both the linear susceptibility and specific heat at constant volume near the liquid-gas critical point of He-3 in a microgravity environment. An electrostriction technique for measuring susceptibility will be described. Initial electrostriction measurements were performed on the ground along the critical isochore in a 0.5 mm high measurement cell filled to within 0.1 % of the critical density. These measurements agreed with the susceptibility determined from pressure-density measurements along isotherms. The critical temperature, T(sub c), determined separately from specific heat and susceptibility measurements was self-consistent. Susceptibility measurements in the range t = T/T(sub c) - 1 > 10(exp -4)were fit to Chi(sup *)(sub T) = Gamma(sup +)t(exp -lambda)(1 + Gamma(sup +)(sub 1)t(sup delta). Best fit parameters for the asymptotic amplitude Gamma(sup +) and the first Wegner amplitude Gamma(sup +)(sub 1) will be presented and compared to previous measurements.

Sulfate-bicarbonate exchange in brush-border membranes from rat renal cortex

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

Pritchard, J.B.

1987-02-01

Under Na/sup +/-free conditions /sup 35/SO/sub 4//sup 2 -/ uptake by rat renal brush-border membrane (BBM) vesicles could be driven by imposition of a HCO/sup -//sub 3/ gradient (in greater than out). The initial rate of /sup 35/SO/sub 4//sup 2 -/ uptake was stimulated 10-fold, and peak overshoot exceeded equilibrium uptake by 2-3 times. Cl/sup -/, SCN/sup -/, NO/sub 3//sup -/, I/sup -/, and OH/sup -/ were able to substitute for HCO/sub 3//sup -/. Divalent anions, including /sup 35/SO/sub 4//sup 2 -/ itself, were less effective as counterions. HCO/sub 3//sup -/-SO/sub 4//sup 2 -/ exchange was cis-inhibited by disulfonic stilbenes,more » ((SITS)(DIDS)), phloretin, Hg, and S/sub 2/O/sub 3//sup 2 -/. HCO/sub 3//sup -/-driven /sup 35/SO/sub 4//sup 2 -/ uptake was saturable, with an apparent K/sub m/ of 0.4 mM for SO/sub 4//sup 2 -/. Simultaneous imposition of Na/sup +/ and HCO/sub 3//sup -/ gradients produced approximately additive stimulation of /sup 35/SO/sub 4//sup 2 -/ uptake. The HCO/sub 3//sup -/-driven component of /sup 35/SO/sub 4//sup 2 -/ uptake, but not the component driven by Na/sup +/, was inhibited by SITS. Finally, Na/sup +/-driven SO/sub 4//sup 2 -/ accumulation could be reduced by imposing an out greater than in HCO/sub 3//sup +/ gradient, conditions accelerating exchange driven SO/sub 4//sup 2 -/ efflux. These findings indicate the presence of separate Na/sup +/-SO/sub 4//sup 2 -/ cotransport and SO /sub 4//sup 2 -/-anion exchange pathways in the same BBM vesicles.« less

A Critical Dialectical Pluralistic Examination of the Lived Experience of Select Women Doctoral Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Onwuegbuzie, Anthony J.; Rosli, Roslinda; Ingram, Jacqueline M.; Frels, Rebecca K.

2014-01-01

The purpose of this study was to explore and to understand the daily life experiences of 8 women doctoral students who were in pursuit of their doctorates. A partially mixed concurrent dominant status design was utilized in this study embedded within a mixed methods phenomenological research lens and driven by a critical dialectical pluralistic…

Inherently unstable networks collapse to a critical point

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sheinman, M.; Sharma, A.; Alvarado, J.; Koenderink, G. H.; MacKintosh, F. C.

2015-07-01

Nonequilibrium systems that are driven or drive themselves towards a critical point have been studied for almost three decades. Here we present a minimalist example of such a system, motivated by experiments on collapsing active elastic networks. Our model of an unstable elastic network exhibits a collapse towards a critical point from any macroscopically connected initial configuration. Taking into account steric interactions within the network, the model qualitatively and quantitatively reproduces results of the experiments on collapsing active gels.

Advanced Concepts Theory Annual Report 1984.

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-06-26

SUBJECT TERMS (Continue on reverse if necessary and identify by block number) - FIELD GROUP SUB-GROUP Radiation Hydrodynamics Plasma Miixtures 1 ABSTRACT...an imploding annular plasma, accelerated radially by the current-driven, azimuthal magnetic field to velocities near 10 7 cm/sec. The on-axis...state consistent 4itn the other level populations, atomic rates, and the ambient r ad iation field . To perform this calculation the critical elements

Still Flies in Buttermilk: Black Male Faculty, Critical Race Theory, and Composite Counterstorytelling

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Griffin, Rachel Alicia; Ward, LaCharles; Phillips, Amanda R.

2014-01-01

Driven by critical race theory, this essay employs composite counterstorytelling to narrate the experiences of black male faculty on traditionally white campuses. Situated at the intersections of race and gender, our composite counterstory is richly informed by 11 interviews with black male faculty alongside critical race scholarship that…

Pre-PDK block-level PPAC assessment of technology options for sub-7nm high-performance logic

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liebmann, L.; Northrop, G.; Facchini, M.; Riviere Cazaux, L.; Baum, Z.; Nakamoto, N.; Sun, K.; Chanemougame, D.; Han, G.; Gerousis, V.

2018-03-01

This paper describes a rigorous yet flexible standard cell place-and-route flow that is used to quantify block-level power, performance, and area trade-offs driven by two unique cell architectures and their associated design rule differences. The two architectures examined in this paper differ primarily in their use of different power-distribution-networks to achieve the desired circuit performance for high-performance logic designs. The paper shows the importance of incorporating block-level routability experiments in the early phases of design-technology co-optimization by reviewing a series of routing trials that explore different aspects of the technology definition. Since the electrical and physical parameters leading to critical process assumptions and design rules are unique to specific integration schemes and design objectives, it is understood that the goal of this work is not to promote one cell-architecture over another, but rather to convey the importance of exploring critical trade-offs long before the process details of the technology node are finalized to a point where a process design kit can be published.

THz and Sub-THz Capabilities of a Table-Top Radiation Source Driven by an RF Thermionic Electron Gun

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

Smirnov, Alexei V.; Agustsson, R.; Boucher, S.

Design features and experimental results are presented for a sub-mm wave source [1] based on APS RF thermionic electron gun. The setup includes compact alpha-magnet, quadrupoles, sub-mm-wave radiators, and THz optics. The sub-THz radiator is a planar, oversized structure with gratings. Source upgrade for generation frequencies above 1 THz is discussed. The THz radiator will use a short-period undulator having 1 T field amplitude, ~20 cm length, and integrated with a low-loss oversized waveguide. Both radiators are integrated with a miniature horn antenna and a small ~90°-degree in-vacuum bending magnet. The electron beamline is designed to operate different modes includingmore » conversion to a flat beam interacting efficiently with the radiator. The source can be used for cancer diagnostics, surface defectoscopy, and non-destructive testing. Sub-THz experiment demonstrated a good potential of a robust, table-top system for generation of a narrow bandwidth THz radiation. This setup can be considered as a prototype of a compact, laser-free, flexible source capable of generation of long trains of Sub-THz and THz pulses with repetition rates not available with laser-driven sources.« less

Large system change challenges: addressing complex critical issues in linked physical and social domains

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Waddell, Steve; Cornell, Sarah; Hsueh, Joe; Ozer, Ceren; McLachlan, Milla; Birney, Anna

2015-04-01

Most action to address contemporary complex challenges, including the urgent issues of global sustainability, occurs piecemeal and without meaningful guidance from leading complex change knowledge and methods. The potential benefit of using such knowledge is greater efficacy of effort and investment. However, this knowledge and its associated tools and methods are under-utilized because understanding about them is low, fragmented between diverse knowledge traditions, and often requires shifts in mindsets and skills from expert-led to participant-based action. We have been engaged in diverse action-oriented research efforts in Large System Change for sustainability. For us, "large" systems can be characterized as large-scale systems - up to global - with many components, of many kinds (physical, biological, institutional, cultural/conceptual), operating at multiple levels, driven by multiple forces, and presenting major challenges for people involved. We see change of such systems as complex challenges, in contrast with simple or complicated problems, or chaotic situations. In other words, issues and sub-systems have unclear boundaries, interact with each other, and are often contradictory; dynamics are non-linear; issues are not "controllable", and "solutions" are "emergent" and often paradoxical. Since choices are opportunity-, power- and value-driven, these social, institutional and cultural factors need to be made explicit in any actionable theory of change. Our emerging network is sharing and building a knowledge base of experience, heuristics, and theories of change from multiple disciplines and practice domains. We will present our views on focal issues for the development of the field of large system change, which include processes of goal-setting and alignment; leverage of systemic transitions and transformation; and the role of choice in influencing critical change processes, when only some sub-systems or levels of the system behave in purposeful ways, while others are undeniably and unavoidably deterministic.

Recalculation of the Critical Size and Multiplication Constant of a Homogeneous UO{sub 2}-D{sub 2}O Mixtures

DOE R&D Accomplishments Database

Wigner, E. P.; Weinberg, A. M.; Stephenson, J.

1944-02-11

The multiplication constant and optimal concentration of a slurry pile is recalculated on the basis of Mitchell's experiments on resonance absorption. The smallest chain reacting unit contains 45 to 55 m{sup 3}of d{sub 2}O. (auth).

Recalculation of the Critical Size and Multiplication Constant of a Homogeneous UO{sub 2} - D{sub 2}O Mixtures

DOE R&D Accomplishments Database

Wigner, E. P.; Weinberg, A. M.; Stephenson, J.

1944-02-11

The multiplication constant and optimal concentration of a slurry pile is recalculated on the basis of Mitchell`s experiments on resonance absorption. The smallest chain reacting unit contains 45 to 55 m{sup 3}of D{sub 2}O. (auth)

Ion acceleration by laser hole-boring into plasmas

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

Pogorelsky, I. V.; Dover, N. P.; Babzien, M.

By experiment and simulations, we study the interaction of an intense CO{sub 2} laser pulse with slightly overcritical plasmas of fully ionized helium gas. Transverse optical probing is used to show a recession of the front plasma surface with an initial velocity >10{sup 6} m/s driven by hole-boring by the laser pulse and the resulting radiation pressure driven electrostatic shocks. The collisionless shock propagates through the plasma, dissipates into an ion-acoustic solitary wave, and eventually becomes collisional as it slows further. These observations are supported by PIC simulations which prove the conclusion that monoenergetic protons observed in our earlier reportedmore » experiment with a hydrogen jet result from ion trapping and reflection from a shock wave driven through the plasma.« less

Depositing High-T(sub c) Superconductors On Normal-Conductor Wires

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kirlin, Peter S.

1994-01-01

Experiments have demonstrated feasibility of depositing thin layers of high-T(sub c) superconductor on normally electrically conductive wires. Superconductivity evident at and below critical temperature (T{sub c}) of 71 K. OMCVD, organometallic vapor deposition, apparatus coats Ag wire with layer high-T(sub c) superconductor. Superconductive phase of this material formed subsequently by annealing under controlled conditions.

Transmutation of uranium and thorium in the particle field of the Quinta sub-critical assembly

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hashemi-Nezhad, S. R.; Asquith, N. L.; Voronko, V. A.; Sotnikov, V. V.; Zhadan, Alina; Zhuk, I. V.; Potapenko, A.; Husak, Krystsina; Chilap, V.; Adam, J.; Baldin, A.; Berlev, A.; Furman, W.; Kadykov, M.; Khushvaktov, J.; Kudashkin, I.; Mar'in, I.; Paraipan, M.; Pronskih, V.; Solnyshkin, A.; Tyutyunnikov, S.

2018-03-01

The fission rates of natural uranium and thorium were measured in the particle field of Quinta, a 512 kg natural uranium target-blanket sub-critical assembly. The Quinta assembly was irradiated with deuterons of energy 4 GeV from the Nuclotron accelerator of the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research (JINR), Dubna, Russia. Fission rates of uranium and thorium were measured using Gamma spectroscopy and fission track techniques. The production rate of 239Np was also measured. The obtained experimental results were compared with Monte Carlo predictions using the MCNPX 2.7 code employing the physics and fission-evaporation models of INCL4-ABLA, CEM03.03 and LAQGSM03.03. Some of the neutronic characteristics of the Quinta are compared with the "Energy plus Transmutation (EpT)" subcritical assembly, which is composed of a lead target and natU blanket. This comparison clearly demonstrates the importance of target material, neutron moderator and reflector types on the performance of a spallation neutron driven subcritical system. As the dimensions of the Quinta are very close to those of an optimal multi-rod-uranium target, the experimental and Monte Carlo calculation results presented in this paper provide insights on the particle field within a uranium target as well as in Accelerator Driven Systems in general.

Study of Flow of Superfluid He-II Very Near Tau(sub lambda)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mukharsky, Yury; Sukhatme, Kalyani; Pearson, David; Chui, Talso

1999-01-01

We report here, preliminary data from an experiment studying flow of superfluid helium through a slit orifice (of sub-micron width) very close to T(sub lambda). Critical supercurrent (I(sub c)) data is obtained from a step function drive to the diaphragm in a Helmholtz resonator cell. The superfluid density (rho(sub s)) data can be obtained from the resonant frequency of the Helmholtz oscillator, as determined by transfer function of the resonator or from the free ringing after the step function excitation. Preliminary data shows that I(sub c) is proportional to (rho(sub s))(exp 1.27) and rho(sub s)) is proportional to tau(exp 0.73), where tau is the reduced temperature. However, the magnitude of I(sub c) is much larger than expected, indicating a possible parallel flow path. Further investigations are in progress. Keywords: superfluid; hydrodynamics; critical exponent

Condom social marketing, Pentecostalism, and structural adjustment in Mozambique: a clash of AIDS prevention messages.

PubMed

Pfeiffer, James

2004-03-01

Despite significant debate about the efficacy, ideology, and ethics of the method, condom social marketing (CSM) has become the dominant approach to AIDS education in many sub-Saharan African countries. However, critics have charged that social marketing (SM) distracts from the structural determinants of health-related behavior and excludes genuine community participation. This article argues that the diffusion of SM techniques in Africa is not driven by demonstrated efficacy but is attributable to the promotion of privatization and free markets in the structural adjustment era across the region. The CSM experience in a central Mozambican community reveals the dangers of using the method at the expense of community dialogue and participation to confront the AIDS epidemic. The advertising campaign developed to sell condoms has clashed with Pentecostal and Independent Churches, now a majority of the population, that have expanded rapidly across the region spreading a contrasting message about sexuality and risky behavior.

Component Selection, Accelerated Testing, and Improved Modeling of AMTEC Systems for Space Power (abstract)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Williams, R. M.; Jeffries-Nakamura, B.; Ryan, M. A.; Underwood, M. L.; Suitor, J.; O'Connor, D.

1993-01-01

Alkali metal thermal to electric converter (AMTEC) designs for space power are numerous, but selection of materials for construction of long-lived AMTEC devices has been limited to electrodes, current collectors, and the solid electrolyte. AMTEC devices with lifetimes greater than 5 years require careful selection and life testing of all hot-side components. The likely selection of a remote condensed design for initial flight test and probable use with a GPHS in AMTEC powered outer planet probes requires the device to be constructed to tolerate T greater than 1150K, as well as exposure to Na(sub (g)), and Na(sub (liq)) on the high pressure side. The temperatures involved make critical high strength and chemical resistance to Na containing Na(sub 2)O. Selection among materials which can be worked should not be driven by ease of fabricability, as high temperature stability is the critical issue. These concepts drive the selection of Mo alloys for Na(sub (liq)) containment in AMTEC cells for T to 1150K operation, as they are significantly stronger than comparable NB or Ta alloys, are less soluble in Na(sub (liq)) containing dissolved Na(sub 2)O, are workable compared to W alloys (which might be used for certain components), and are ductile at the T greater than 500K of proposed AMTEC modules in space applications.

Optical gating and streaking of free electrons with sub-optical cycle precision

PubMed Central

Kozák, M.; McNeur, J.; Leedle, K. J.; Deng, H.; Schönenberger, N.; Ruehl, A.; Hartl, I.; Harris, J. S.; Byer, R. L.; Hommelhoff, P.

2017-01-01

The temporal resolution of ultrafast electron diffraction and microscopy experiments is currently limited by the available experimental techniques for the generation and characterization of electron bunches with single femtosecond or attosecond durations. Here, we present proof of principle experiments of an optical gating concept for free electrons via direct time-domain visualization of the sub-optical cycle energy and transverse momentum structure imprinted on the electron beam. We demonstrate a temporal resolution of 1.2±0.3 fs. The scheme is based on the synchronous interaction between electrons and the near-field mode of a dielectric nano-grating excited by a femtosecond laser pulse with an optical period duration of 6.5 fs. The sub-optical cycle resolution demonstrated here is promising for use in laser-driven streak cameras for attosecond temporal characterization of bunched particle beams as well as time-resolved experiments with free-electron beams. PMID:28120930

Fourier-domain study of drift turbulence driven sheared flow in a laboratory plasma

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

Xu, M.; Tynan, G. R.; Holland, C.

2010-03-15

Frequency-resolved nonlinear internal and kinetic energy transfer rates have been measured in the Controlled Shear Decorrelation Experiment (CSDX) linear plasma device using a recently developed technique [Xu et al., Phys. Plasmas 16, 042312 (2009)]. The results clearly show a net kinetic energy transfer into the zonal flow frequency region, consistent with previous time-domain observations of turbulence-driven shear flows [Tynan et al., Plasma Phys. Controlled Fusion 48, S51 (2006)]. The experimentally measured dispersion relation has been used to map the frequency-resolved energy transfer rates into the wave number domain, which shows that the shear flow drive comes from midrange (k{sub t}hetarho{submore » S}>0.3) drift fluctuations, and the strongest flow drive comes from k{sub t}hetarho{sub S}approx =1 fluctuations. Linear growth rates have been inferred from a linearized Hasegawa-Wakatani model [Hasegawa et al., Phys. Fluids 22, 2122 (1979)], which indicates that the m=0 mode is linearly stable and the m=1-10 modes (corresponding to k{sub t}hetarho{sub S}>0.3) are linearly unstable for the n=1 and n=2 radial eigenmodes. This is consistent with our energy transfer measurements.« less

Monte Carlo analyses of TRX slightly enriched uranium-H/sub 2/O critical experiments with ENDF/B-IV and related data sets (AWBA Development Program)

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

Hardy, J. Jr.

1977-12-01

Four H/sub 2/O-moderated, slightly-enriched-uranium critical experiments were analyzed by Monte Carlo methods with ENDF/B-IV data. These were simple metal-rod lattices comprising Cross Section Evaluation Working Group thermal reactor benchmarks TRX-1 through TRX-4. Generally good agreement with experiment was obtained for calculated integral parameters: the epi-thermal/thermal ratio of U238 capture (rho/sup 28/) and of U235 fission (delta/sup 25/), the ratio of U238 capture to U235 fission (CR*), and the ratio of U238 fission to U235 fission (delta/sup 28/). Full-core Monte Carlo calculations for two lattices showed good agreement with cell Monte Carlo-plus-multigroup P/sub l/ leakage corrections. Newly measured parameters for themore » low energy resonances of U238 significantly improved rho/sup 28/. In comparison with other CSEWG analyses, the strong correlation between K/sub eff/ and rho/sup 28/ suggests that U238 resonance capture is the major problem encountered in analyzing these lattices.« less

Anisotropic distribution function of minority tail ions generated by strong ion-cyclotron resonance heating

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

Chang, C.S.; Colestock, P.

1989-05-01

The highly anisotropic particle distribution function of minority tail ions driven by ion-cyclotron resonance heating at the fundamental harmonic is calculated in a two-dimensional velocity space. It is assumed that the heating is strong enough to drive most of the resonant ions above the in-electron critical slowing-down energy. Simple analytic expressions for the tail distribution are obtained fro the case when the Doppler effect is sufficiently large to flatten the sharp pitch angle dependence in the bounce averaged qualilinear heating coefficient, D/sub b/, and for the case when D/sub b/ is assumed to be constant in pitch angle and energy.more » It is found that a simple constant-D/sub b/ solution can be used instead of the more complicated sharp-D/sub b/ solution for many analytic purposes. 4 refs., 4 figs.« less

Template synthesis of Ag/AgCl microrods and their efficient visible light-driven photocatalytic performance

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

Chen, Hua; Xiao, Liang; Huang, Jianhua, E-mail: jhhuang@zstu.edu.cn

2014-09-15

Highlights: • Preparation ofAg/AgCl microrods by reaction of Ag{sub 2}WO{sub 4} microrods with NaCl solution. • Generation of metallic Ag is induced by the ambient light in the synthesis process. • Ag/AgCl shows excellent visible light-driven photodegradation of organic dyes. - Abstract: Ag/AgCl microrods, aggregated by nanoparticles with a diameter ranging from 100 nm to 2 μm, were prepared by an ion-exchange reaction at 80 °C between Ag{sub 2}WO{sub 4} template and NaCl solution. The existence of metallic Ag species was confirmed by XRD, DRS and XPS measurements. Ag/AgCl microrods showed excellent photocatalytic activity for the degradation of rhodamine Bmore » and methylene blue under visible light irradiation. The degradation rate constants of rhodamine B and methylene blue are 0.176 and 0.114 min{sup −1}, respectively. The cycling photodegradation experiments suggest that Ag/AgCl microds could be employed as stable plasmonic photocatalysts for the degradation of organic dyes under visible light irradiation.« less

Magnetic excitations in Kondo liquid: superconductivity and hidden magnetic quantum critical fluctuations

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

Yang, Yifeng; Urbano, Ricardo; Nicholas, Curro

2009-01-01

We report Knight shift experiments on the superconducting heavy electron material CeCoIn{sub 5} that allow one to track with some precision the behavior of the heavy electron Kondo liquid in the superconducting state with results in agreement with BCS theory. An analysis of the {sup 115}In nuclear quadrupole resonance (NQR) spin-lattice relaxation rate T{sub 1}{sup -1} measurements under pressure reveals the presence of 2d magnetic quantum critical fluctuations in the heavy electron component that are a promising candidate for the pairing mechanism in this material. Our results are consistent with an antiferromagnetic quantum critical point (QCP) located at slightly negativemore » pressure in CeCoIn{sub 5} and provide additional evidence for significant similarities between the heavy electron materials and the high T{sub c} cuprates.« less

Magnetization, resistivity, specific heat and ab initio calculations of Gd₅Sb₃.

PubMed

Samatham, S Shanmukharao; Patel, Akhilesh Kumar; Lukoyanov, Alexey V; Suresh, K G

2018-06-07

We report on the combined results of structural, magnetic, transport and calorimetric properties of Mn₅Si₃-type hexagonal Gd₅Sb₃, together with <i>ab-initio</i> calculations. It exhibits a ferromagnetic (FM)-like transition at 265 K, antiferromagnetic (AFM) Néel transition at 95.5 K followed by a spin-orientation transition at 62 K. The system is found to be in AFM state down to 2 K in a field of 70 kOe. The FM-AFM phase coexistence is not noticeable despite large positive Curie-Weiss temperature (θ_CW = 223.5 ± 0.2 K). Instead, low-temperature AFM and high-temperature FM-like phases are separated in large temperatures. Temperature-magnetic field (<i>H</i>-<i>T</i>) phase diagram reveals field-driven complex magnetic phases. Within the AFM phase, the system is observed to undergo field-driven spin-orientation transitions. Field-induced tricritical and quantum critical points appear to be absent due to strong AFM nature and by the intervention of FM-like state between paramagnetic and AFM states, respectively. The metallic behavior of the compound is inferred from resistivity along with large Sommerfeld parameter. However, no sign of strong electron-correlations is reasoned from the Kadowaki-Wood's ratio <i>A</i>/γ² ∼ 1.9×10^-6 μΩ.cm.(mol.K)²(mJ)^-2, despite heavy γ. Essentially, <i>ab initio</i> calculations accounting for electronic correlations confirm AFM nature of low-temperature magnetic state in Gd₅Sb₃ and attainable FM ordering in agreement with experimental data. © 2018 IOP Publishing Ltd.

Simulation of Fast Neutronics in an Accelerator-Driven Sub-Critical Core

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gwyn Rosaire, C.; Sattarov, Akhdiyor; McIntyre, Peter; Tsvetkov, Pavel

2011-10-01

Accelerator-driven subcritical fission in a molten salt core (ADSMS) is being developed as a technology for green nuclear power. ADSMS burns its fertile fuel to completion, it cannot melt down, and it destroys long-lived minor actinides. The ADSMS core consists of a vessel filled with a molten salt eutectic of UCl3 and NaCl. The fast neutronics of ADSMS makes possible two unique benefits: isobreeding, a steady-state equilibrium in which ^238U is bred to ^239Pu and the ^239Pu fissions, and destruction of minor actinides, in which fission of the intermediary nuclides dominates of breeding. Results of simulations of the fast neutronics in the ADSMS core will be presented.

Neutronics Benchmarks for the Utilization of Mixed-Oxide Fuel: Joint U.S./ Russian Progress Report for Fiscal Year 1997, Volume 4, Part 8 - Neutron Poison Plates in Assemblies Containing Homogeneous Mixtures of Polystyrene-Moderated Plutonium and Uranium Oxides

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

Yavuz, M.

1999-05-01

In the 1970s at the Battelle Pacific Northwest Laboratory (PNL), a series of critical experiments using a remotely operated Split-Table Machine was performed with homogeneous mixtures of (Pu-U)O{sub 2}-polystyrene fuels in the form of square compacts having different heights. The experiments determined the critical geometric configurations of MOX fuel assemblies with and without neutron poison plates. With respect to PuO{sub 2} content and moderation [H/(Pu+U)atomic] ratio (MR), two different homogeneous (Pu-U) O{sub 2}-polystyrene mixtures were considered: Mixture (1) 14.62 wt% PuO{sub 2} with 30.6 MR, and Mixture (2) 30.3 wt% PuO{sub 2} with 2.8 MR. In all mixtures, the uraniummore » was depleted to about O.151 wt% U{sup 235}. Assemblies contained copper, copper-cadmium or aluminum neutron poison plates having thicknesses up to {approximately}2.5 cm. This evaluation contains 22 experiments for Mixture 1, and 10 for Mixture 2 compacts. For Mixture 1, there are 10 configurations with copper plates, 6 with aluminum, and 5 with copper-cadmium. One experiment contained no poison plate. For Mixture 2 compacts, there are 3 configurations with copper, 3 with aluminum, and 3 with copper-cadmium poison plates. One experiment contained no poison plate.« less

Synthesis, characterization and evaluation of the photocatalytic performance of Ag-CdMoO{sub 4} solar light driven plasmonic photocatalyst

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

Adhikari, Rajesh; Malla, Shova; Gyawali, Gobinda

2013-09-01

Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • Ag-CdMoO{sub 4} solar light driven photocatalyst was successfully synthesized. • Photocatalyst exhibited strong absorption in the visible region. • Photocatalytic activity was significantly enhanced. • Enhanced activity was caused by the SPR effect induced by Ag nanoparticles. - Abstract: Ag-CdMoO{sub 4} plasmonic photocatalyst was synthesized in ethanol/water mixture by photo assisted co-precipitation method at room temperature. As synthesized powders were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), UV–Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area analyzer. Photocatalytic activity was evaluated by performing the degradation experiment over methylenemore » blue (MB) and indigo carmine (IC) as model dyes under simulated solar light irradiation. The results revealed that the Ag-CdMoO{sub 4} showed the higher photocatalytic performance as compared to CdMoO{sub 4} nanoparticles. Dispersion of Ag nanoparticles over the surface of CdMoO{sub 4} nanoparticles causes the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and enhances the broad absorption in the entire visible region of the solar spectrum. Hence, dispersion of Ag nanoparticles over CdMoO{sub 4} nanoparticles could be the better alternative to enhance the absorption of visible light by scheelite crystal family for effective photocatalysis.« less

Competence Challenges of Demand-Led Agricultural Research and Extension in Uganda

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kibwika, P.; Wals, A. E. J.; Nassuna-Musoke, M. G.

2009-01-01

Governments and development agencies in Sub-Saharan Africa are experimenting alternative approaches within the innovation systems paradigm to enhance relevance of agricultural research and extension to the poverty eradication agenda. Uganda, for example, has recently shifted from the supply driven to demand-led agricultural research and extension.…

Microcharge neutralization transport experiments and simulations for ion-driven inertial confinement fusion

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

Olson, C.L.; Hanson, D.L.; Poukey, J.W.

Space charge neutralization for intense beams for inertial confinement fusion is usually assumed to be perfect. However, small charge clumps in the beam will not be totally charge neutralized, and the residual net minimum potential set by electron trapping (e{phi} {approx} {1/2}m{sub e}v{sup 2}{sub i}, where m{sub e} is the electron mass and v{sub i} is the ion velocity) may lead to a substantial microdivergence. Experiments on the SABRE accelerator and simulations with the IPROP computer code are being performed to assess this mechanism. The authors have successfully created a 5 mrad beam on the SABRE accelerator, by expanding themore » beam (a process consistent with Liouville`s theorem) and, by passing the beam through a plate with pinholes, they have created low divergence beamlets to study this mechanism. Results clearly show: (1) at low pressures, trapping does neutralize the beamlets, but only down to e{phi} {approx} {1/2}m{sub e}v{sup 2}{sub i}; and (2) at higher pressures ({approx} 0.1-1 Torr), plasma shielding does remove the effect.« less

Energetic proton generation from intense Coulomb explosion of large-size ethane clusters

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

Li Song; Zhou Zili; Tian Ye

An experimental investigation is performed on the interaction of intense femtosecond laser pulses at the intensity of 6 Multiplication-Sign 10{sup 17} W/cm{sup 2} (55 fs, 160 mJ at 800 nm) with ethane cluster (C{sub 2}H{sub 6}){sub N} jets prepared under the backing pressure of 30 bars at room temperature (298 K). The experiment results indicate the generation of energetic protons, whose average and maximum kinetic energies are 12.2 and 138.1 keV, respectively, by Coulomb explosion of (C{sub 2}H{sub 6}){sub N} clusters. (C{sub 2}H{sub 6}){sub N} clusters of 5 nm in radius are generated in the experiment, which are 1.7 timesmore » larger than that of (CH{sub 4}){sub N} clusters prepared in the same conditions. Empirical estimation suggests that (C{sub 2}H{sub 6}){sub N} clusters with radius of about 9.6 nm can be prepared at 80-bars backing pressure at 308 K. While (C{sub 2}H{sub 6}){sub N} clusters of so large size are irradiated by sufficiently intense laser pulses, the average energy of protons will be increased up to 50 keV. It is inferred that such large-size deuterated ethane clusters (C{sub 2}D{sub 6}){sub N} will favor more efficient neutron generation due to the significant increase of the D-D nuclear reaction cross section in laser-driven cluster nuclear fusion.« less

Turbulent resistivity, diffusion and heating

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fried, B. D.; Kennel, C. F.; Mackenzie, K.; Coroniti, F. V.; Kindel, J. M.; Stenzel, R.; Taylor, R. J.; White, R.; Wong, A. Y.; Bernstein, W.

1971-01-01

Experimental and theoretical studies are reported on ion acoustic and ion cyclotron turbulence and their roles in anomalous resistivity, viscosity, diffusion and heating and in the structure of collisionless electrostatic shocks. Resistance due to ion acoustic turbulence has been observed in experiments with a streaming cesium plasma in which electron current, potential rise due to turbulent resistivity, spectrum of unstable ion acoustic waves, and associated electron heating were all measured directly. Kinetic theory calculations for an expanding, unstable plasma, give results in agreement with the experiment. In a strong magnetic field, with T sub e/T sub i approximately 1 and current densities typical for present Tokomaks, the plasma is stable to ion acoustic but unstable to current driven electrostatic ion cyclotron waves. Relevant characteristics of these waves are calculated and it is shown that for ion, beta greater than m sub e/m sub i, the electromagnetic ion cyclotron wave has a lower instability threshold than the electrostatic one. However, when ion acoustic turbulence is present experiments with double plasma devices show rapid anomalous heating of an ion beam streaming through a plasma.

Estimation of critical end-test torque using neuromuscular electrical stimulation of the quadriceps in humans.

PubMed

Janzen, Natalie R; Hight, Robert E; Patel, Darshit S; Campbell, Jason A; Larson, Rebecca D; Black, Christopher D

2018-05-02

Characterization of critical power/torque (CP/CT) during voluntary exercise requires maximal effort, making difficult for those with neuromuscular impairments. To address this issue we sought to determine if electrically stimulated intermittent isometric exercise resulted in a critical end-test torque (ETT) that behaved similar to voluntary CT. In the first experiment participants (n = 9) completed four bouts of stimulated exercise at a 3:2 duty cycle, at frequencies of 100, 50, 25 Hz, and a low frequency below ETT (Sub-ETT; ≤ 15 Hz). The second experiment (n = 20) consisted of four bouts at a 2:2 duty cycle-two bouts at 100 Hz, one at an intermediate frequency (15-30 Hz), and one at Sub-ETT. The third experiment (n = 12) consisted of two bouts at 50 Hz at a 3:2 duty* cycle with proximal blood flow occlusion during one of the bouts. ETT torque was similar (p ≥ 0.43) within and among stimulation frequencies in experiment 1. No fatigue was observed during the Sub-ETT bouts (p > 0.05). For experiment 2, ETT was similar at 100 Hz and at the intermediate frequency (p ≥ 0.29). Again, Sub-ETT stimulation did not result in fatigue (p > 0.05). Altering oxygen delivery by altering the duty cycle (3:2 vs. 2:2; p = 0.02) and by occlusion (p < 0.001) resulted in lower ETT values. Stimulated exercise resulted in an ETT that was consistent from day-to-day and similar regardless of initial torque, as long as that torque exceeded ETT, and was sensitive to oxygen delivery. As such we propose it represents a parameter similar to voluntary CT.

Neutronics Benchmarks for the Utilization of Mixed-Oxide Fuel: Joint U.S./Russian Progress Report for Fiscal Year 1997

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

Akkurt, H

2001-01-11

In 1967, a series of critical experiments were conducted at the Westinghouse Reactor Evaluation Center (WREC) using mixed-oxide (MOX) PuO{sub 2}-UO{sub 2} and/or UO{sub 2} fuels in various lattices and configurations . These experiments were performed under the joint sponsorship of the Empire State Atomic Development Associates (ESADA) plutonium program and Westinghouse . The purpose of these experiments was to develop experimental data to validate analytical methods used in the design of a plutonium-bearing replacement fuel for water reactors. Three different fuels were used during the experimental program: two MOX fuels and a low-enriched UO{sub 2} fuel. The MOX fuelsmore » were distinguished by their {sup 240}Pu content: 8 wt% {sup 240}Pu and 24 wt% {sup 240}Pu. Both MOX fuels contained 2.0 wt % PuO{sub 2} in natural UO{sub 2} . The UO{sub 2} fuel with 2.72 wt % enrichment was used for comparison with the plutonium data and for use in multiregion experiments.« less

A Josephson radiation comb generator.

PubMed

Solinas, P; Gasparinetti, S; Golubev, D; Giazotto, F

2015-07-20

We propose the implementation of a Josephson Radiation Comb Generator (JRCG) based on a dc superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) driven by an external magnetic field. When the magnetic flux crosses a diffraction node of the critical current interference pattern, the superconducting phase undergoes a jump of π and a voltage pulse is generated at the extremes of the SQUID. Under periodic drive this allows one to generate a sequence of sharp, evenly spaced voltage pulses. In the frequency domain, this corresponds to a comb-like structure similar to the one exploited in optics and metrology. With this device it is possible to generate up to several hundreds of harmonics of the driving frequency. For example, a chain of 50 identical high-critical-temperature SQUIDs driven at 1 GHz can deliver up to a 0.5 nW at 200 GHz. The availability of a fully solid-state radiation comb generator such as the JRCG, easily integrable on chip, may pave the way to a number of technological applications, from metrology to sub-millimeter wave generation.

Zeno: Critical Fluid Light Scattering Experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gammon, Robert W.; Shaumeyer, J. N.; Briggs, Matthew E.; Boukari, Hacene; Gent, David A.; Wilkinson, R. Allen

1996-01-01

The Zeno (Critical Fluid Light Scattering) experiment is the culmination of a long history of critical fluid light scattering in liquid-vapor systems. The major limitation to making accurate measurements closer to the critical point was the density stratification which occurs in these extremely compressible fluids. Zeno was to determine the critical density fluctuation decay rates at a pair of supplementary angles in the temperature range 100 mK to 100 (mu)K from T(sub c) in a sample of xenon accurately loaded to the critical density. This paper gives some highlights from operating the instrument on two flights March, 1994 on STS-62 and February, 1996 on STS-75. More detail of the experiment Science Requirements, the personnel, apparatus, and results are displayed on the Web homepage at http://www.zeno.umd.edu.

SHORT-LIVED STAR-FORMING GIANT CLUMPS IN COSMOLOGICAL SIMULATIONS OF z Almost-Equal-To 2 DISKS

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

Genel, Shy; Genzel, Reinhard; Foerster Schreiber, Natascha M.

Many observed massive star-forming z Almost-Equal-To 2 galaxies are large disks that exhibit irregular morphologies, with Almost-Equal-To 1 kpc, Almost-Equal-To 10{sup 8}-10{sup 10}M{sub o-dot} clumps. We present the largest sample to date of high-resolution cosmological smoothed particle hydrodynamics simulations that zoom-in on the formation of individual M{sub *} Almost-Equal-To 10{sup 10.5}M{sub o-dot} galaxies in Almost-Equal-To 10{sup 12}M{sub o-dot} halos at z Almost-Equal-To 2. Our code includes strong stellar feedback parameterized as momentum-driven galactic winds. This model reproduces many characteristic features of this observed class of galaxies, such as their clumpy morphologies, smooth and monotonic velocity gradients, high gas fractions (f{submore » g} Almost-Equal-To 50%), and high specific star formation rates ({approx}>1 Gyr{sup -1}). In accord with recent models, giant clumps (M{sub clump} Almost-Equal-To (5 Multiplication-Sign 10{sup 8}-10{sup 9})M{sub o-dot}) form in situ via gravitational instabilities. However, the galactic winds are critical for their subsequent evolution. The giant clumps we obtain are short-lived and are disrupted by wind-driven mass loss. They do not virialize or migrate to the galaxy centers as suggested in recent work neglecting strong winds. By phenomenologically implementing the winds that are observed from high-redshift galaxies and in particular from individual clumps, our simulations reproduce well new observational constraints on clump kinematics and clump ages. In particular, the observation that older clumps appear closer to their galaxy centers is reproduced in our simulations, as a result of inside-out formation of the disks rather than inward clump migration.« less

Advanced electrical current measurements of microdischarges: evidence of sub-critical pulses and ion currents in barrier discharge in air

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Synek, Petr; Zemánek, Miroslav; Kudrle, Vít; Hoder, Tomáš

2018-04-01

Electrical current measurements in corona or barrier microdischarges are a challenge as they require both high temporal resolution and a large dynamic range of the current probe used. In this article, we apply a simple self-assembled current probe and compare it to commercial ones. An analysis in the time and frequency domain is carried out. Moreover, an improved methodology is presented, enabling both temporal resolution in sub-nanosecond times and current sensitivity in the order of tens of micro-amperes. Combining this methodology with a high-tech oscilloscope and self-developed software, a unique statistical analysis of currents in volume barrier discharge driven in atmospheric-pressure air is made for over 80 consecutive periods of a 15 kHz applied voltage. We reveal the presence of repetitive sub-critical current pulses and conclude that these can be identified with the discharging of surface charge microdomains. Moreover, extremely low, long-lasting microsecond currents were detected which are caused by ion flow, and are analysed in detail. The statistical behaviour presented gives deeper insight into the discharge physics of these usually undetectable current signals.

The effect of magnetic islands on Ion Temperature Gradient turbulence driven transport

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

Hill, P., E-mail: peter.hill@york.ac.uk; York Plasma Institute, Department of Physics, University of York, Heslington, York YO10 5DD; Hariri, F.

2015-04-15

In this work, we address the question of the influence of magnetic islands on the perpendicular transport due to steady-state ITG turbulence on the energy transport time scale. We demonstrate that turbulence can cross the separatrix and enhance the perpendicular transport across magnetic islands. As the perpendicular transport in the interior of the island sets the critical island size needed for growth of neoclassical tearing modes, this increased transport leads to a critical island size larger than that predicted from considering collisional conductivities, but smaller than that using anomalous effective conductivities. We find that on Bohm time scales, the turbulencemore » is able to re-establish the temperature gradient across the island for islands widths w ≲ λ{sub turb}, the turbulence correlation length. The reduction in the island flattening is estimated by comparison with simulations retaining only the perpendicular temperature and no turbulence. At intermediate island widths, comparable to λ{sub turb}, turbulence is able to maintain finite temperature gradients across the island.« less

Frequency-Dependent Viscosity of Xenon Near the Critical Point

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Berg, Robert F.; Moldover, Michael R.; Zimmerli, Gregory A.

1999-01-01

We used a novel, overdamped oscillator aboard the Space Shuttle to measure the viscosity eta of xenon near its critical density rho(sub c), and temperature T(sub c). In microgravity, useful data were obtained within 0.1 mK of T(sub c), corresponding to a reduced temperature t = (T -T(sub c))/T(sub c) = 3 x 10(exp -7). The data extend two decades closer to T(sub c) than the best ground measurements, and they directly reveal the expected power-law behavior eta proportional to t(sup -(nu)z(sub eta)). Here nu is the correlation length exponent, and our result for the small viscosity exponent is z(sub eta) = 0.0690 +/- 0.0006. (All uncertainties are one standard uncertainty.) Our value for z(sub eta) depends only weakly on the form of the viscosity crossover function, and it agrees with the value 0.067 +/- 0.002 obtained from a recent two-loop perturbation expansion. The measurements spanned the frequency range 2 Hz less than or equal to f less than or equal to 12 Hz and revealed viscoelasticity when t less than or equal to 10(exp -1), further from T(sub c) than predicted. The viscoelasticity scales as Af(tau), where tau is the fluctuation-decay time. The fitted value of the viscoelastic time-scale parameter A is 2.0 +/- 0.3 times the result of a one-loop perturbation calculation. Near T(sub c), the xenon's calculated time constant for thermal diffusion exceeded days. Nevertheless, the viscosity results were independent of the xenon's temperature history, indicating that the density was kept near rho(sub c), by judicious choices of the temperature vs. time program. Deliberately bad choices led to large density inhomogeneities. At t greater than 10(exp -5), the xenon approached equilibrium much faster than expected, suggesting that convection driven by microgravity and by electric fields slowly stirred the sample.

Incineration of nuclear waste by accelerator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martino, J.; Fioni, G.; Leray, S.

1998-10-01

An important international effort is devoted to find a suitable solution to incinerate radioactive nuclear waste issued from conventional power plants and from nuclear disarmament. Practically all innovative projects consist of a sub critical system driven by an external neutron source obtained by spallation induced by a high intensity proton accelerator irradiating a heavy target. New nuclear data measurements are necessary for the realization of these systems, in particular a good knowledge of the spallation process and of the neutron cross sections for transuranic elements are essential.

Dynamic simulations of under-rib convection-driven flow-field configurations and comparison with experiment in polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Duy, Vinh Nguyen; Lee, Jungkoo; Kim, Kyungcheol; Ahn, Jiwoong; Park, Seongho; Kim, Taeeun; Kim, Hyung-Man

2015-10-01

The under-rib convection-driven flow-field design for the uniform distribution of reacting gas and the generation of produced water generates broad scientific interest, especially among those who study the performance of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). In this study, we simulate the effects of an under-rib convection-driven serpentine flow-field with sub-channel and by-pass (SFFSB) and a conventional advanced serpentine flow-field (CASFF) on single cell performance, and we compare the simulation results with experimental measurements. In the under-rib convection-driven flow-field configuration with SFFSB, the pressure drop is decreased because of the greater cross-sectional area for gas flow, and the decreased pressure drop results in the reduction of the parasitic loss. The anode liquid water mass fraction increases with increasing channel height because of increased back diffusion, while the cathode liquid water mass fraction does not depend upon the sub-channels but is ascribed mainly to the electro-osmotic drag. Simulation results verify that the maximum current and the power densities of the SFFSB are increased by 18.85% and 23.74%, respectively, due to the promotion of under-rib convection. The findings in this work may enable the optimization of the design of under-rib convection-driven flow-fields for efficient PEMFCs.

Enhanced Laser-Driven Ion Acceleration by Superponderomotive Electrons Generated from Near-Critical-Density Plasma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bin, J. H.; Yeung, M.; Gong, Z.; Wang, H. Y.; Kreuzer, C.; Zhou, M. L.; Streeter, M. J. V.; Foster, P. S.; Cousens, S.; Dromey, B.; Meyer-ter-Vehn, J.; Zepf, M.; Schreiber, J.

2018-02-01

We report on the experimental studies of laser driven ion acceleration from a double-layer target where a near-critical density target with a few-micron thickness is coated in front of a nanometer-thin diamondlike carbon foil. A significant enhancement of proton maximum energies from 12 to ˜30 MeV is observed when a relativistic laser pulse impinges on the double-layer target under linear polarization. We attributed the enhanced acceleration to superponderomotive electrons that were simultaneously measured in the experiments with energies far beyond the free-electron ponderomotive limit. Our interpretation is supported by two-dimensional simulation results.

Hawking radiation and nonequilibrium quantum critical current noise.

PubMed

Sonner, Julian; Green, A G

2012-08-31

The dynamical scaling of quantum critical systems in thermal equilibrium may be inherited in the driven steady state, leading to universal out-of-equilibrium behavior. This attractive notion has been demonstrated in just a few cases. We demonstrate how holography-a mapping between the quantum critical system and a gravity dual-provides an illuminating perspective and new results. Nontrivial out-of-equilibrium universality is particularly apparent in current noise, which is dual to Hawking radiation in the gravitational system. We calculate this in a two-dimensional system driven by a strong in-plane electric field and deduce a universal scaling function interpolating between previously established equilibrium and far-from-equilibrium current noise. Since this applies at all fields, out-of-equilibrium experiments no longer require very high fields for comparison with theory.

Rheological Properties of Quasi-2D Fluids in Microgravity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Trittel, Torsten; Stannarius, Ralf; Eremin, Alexey; Harth, Kirsten; Clark, Noel A.; Maclennan, Joseph; Glaser, Matthew; Park, Cheol; Hall, Nancy; Tin, Padetha

2016-01-01

Freely suspended smectic films of sub-micrometer thickness and lateral extensions of several millimeters are used to study thermally driven convection and diffusion in the film plane. The experiments were performed during a six minute microgravity phase of a TEXUS suborbital rocket flight (Texus 52, launched April 27, 2015). The project served as a preliminary test for a planned ISS Experiment with liquid crystal films (OASIS), and in addition it provided new experimental data on smectic films exposed to in-plane thermal gradients.We find an attraction of the smectic material towards the cold edge of the film in a temperature gradient, similar to a Soret effect. This process is reversed when this edge is heated up again. Thermal convection driven by two thermocontacts in the film is practically absent, even at temperature gradients up to 10 Kmm, thermally driven convection sets in when the hot post reaches the transition temperature to the nematic phase.An additional experiment was performed under microgravity conditions to test the stability of liquid crystal bridges in different smectic phases.

Magneto-acoustic study near the quantum critical point of the frustrated quantum antiferromagnet Cs{sub 2}CuCl{sub 4}

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

Cong, P. T., E-mail: t.pham@hzdr.de; Physics Institute, Goethe University Frankfurt, D-60438 Frankfurt am Main; Postulka, L.

2016-10-14

Magneto-acoustic investigations of the frustrated triangular-lattice antiferromagnet Cs{sub 2}CuCl{sub 4} were performed for the longitudinal modes c{sub 11} and c{sub 33} in magnetic fields along the a-axis. The temperature dependence of the sound velocity at zero field shows a mild softening at low temperature and displays a small kink-like anomaly at T{sub N}. Isothermal measurements at T < T{sub N} of the sound attenuation α reveal two closely spaced features of different characters on approaching the material's quantum-critical point (QCP) at B{sub s} ≈ 8.5 T for B || a. The peak at slightly lower fields remains sharp down to the lowest temperaturemore » and can be attributed to the ordering temperature T{sub N}(B). The second anomaly, which is rounded and which becomes reduced in size upon cooling, is assigned to the material's spin-liquid properties preceding the long-range antiferromagnetic ordering with decreasing temperature. These two features merge upon cooling suggesting a coincidence at the QCP. The elastic constant at lowest temperatures of our experiment at 32 mK can be well described by a Landau free energy model with a very small magnetoelastic coupling constant G/k{sub B} ≈ 2.8 K. The applicability of this classical model indicates the existence of a small gap in the magnetic excitation spectrum which drives the system away from quantum criticality.« less

(abstract) Undercooling Studies of the Bulk Metallic Glass Forming Zr(sub 41.2)Ti(sub 13.8)Cu(sub 12.5)Ni(sub 10.0)Be(sub 22.5) Alloy During Containerless Electrostatic Levitation Processing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kim, Y. J.; Busch, R.; Johnson, W. L.; Rulison, A. J.; Rhim, W. K.

1995-01-01

Bulk glass forming metallic alloys have long been desired for technological applications and for investigation into liquid undercooling, solidification processes, and thermophysical properties. A glass forming alloy Zr(sub 41.2)Ti(sub 13.8)Cu(sub 12.5)Ni(sub 10.0)Be(sub 22.5) was used to investigate the thermal treatments affecting undercooling and vitrification. The experiments were performed using the high temperature high vacuum electrostatic levitator at JPL. A sample approximately 3 mm in diameter was melted, superheated, undercooled, and solidified while levitated in high vacuum. The results show that when the sample was held above its melting temperature for a sufficient period of time to dissolve oxides and then cooled faster than a critical cooling rate, it undercooled to the glass transition temperature, T(sub g), and formed a glassy alloy. The required critical cooling rate for metallic glass formation was obtained to be between 0.9 K per second and 1.2 K per second for the 42.4 mg sample.

Rejecting salient distractors: Generalization from experience.

PubMed

Vatterott, Daniel B; Mozer, Michael C; Vecera, Shaun P

2018-02-01

Distraction impairs performance of many important, everyday tasks. Attentional control limits distraction by preferentially selecting important items for limited-capacity cognitive operations. Research in attentional control has typically investigated the degree to which selection of items is stimulus-driven versus goal-driven. Recent work finds that when observers initially learn a task, the selection is based on stimulus-driven factors, but through experience, goal-driven factors have an increasing influence. The modulation of selection by goals has been studied within the paradigm of learned distractor rejection, in which experience over a sequence of trials enables individuals eventually to ignore a perceptually salient distractor. The experiments presented examine whether observers can generalize learned distractor rejection to novel distractors. Observers searched for a target and ignored a salient color-singleton distractor that appeared in half of the trials. In Experiment 1, observers who learned distractor rejection in a variable environment rejected a novel distractor more effectively than observers who learned distractor rejection in a less variable, homogeneous environment, demonstrating that variable, heterogeneous stimulus environments encourage generalizable learned distractor rejection. Experiments 2 and 3 investigated the time course of learned distractor rejection across the experiment and found that after experiencing four color-singleton distractors in different blocks, observers could effectively reject subsequent novel color-singleton distractors. These results suggest that the optimization of attentional control to the task environment can be interpreted as a form of learning, demonstrating experience's critical role in attentional control.

Exploration of relative skill of individual CORDEX South Asia domain experiments (GCM/RCM combinations) for spatiotemporal simulation of temperature and precipitation over the Karakoram sub-region

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Forsythe, N. D.; Fowler, H.; Pritchard, D.

2016-12-01

High mountain Asia (HMA) constitutes one the key "water towers of the world", giving rise to river basins whose resources support hundreds of millions of people. This area will experience rapid demographic growth and socio-economic development for the next few decades compounding pressure on resource managements systems from inevitable climate change. In order to develop climate services to support water resources planning and facilitate adaptive capacity building, it is essential to critically characterise the skill and biases of the evaluation (reanalysis-driven) and control (historical period) components of presently available regional climate model (RCM) experiments. For mountain regions in particular, the ability of RCMs to reasonably reproduce the influence of complex topography, through lapse rates and orographic forcing, on sub-regional climate - notably temperature and precipitation - must be assessed in detail. HMA falls within the South Asia domain of the Coordinated Regional Downscaling Experiment (CORDEX) initiative. Multiple international modelling centres have contributed RCM experiments for the CORDEX South Asia domain. This substantial multi-model ensemble provides a valuable opportunity to explore the spread in model skill at simulation of key characteristics of the present HMA climate. This study focuses geographically on the northwest Upper Indus basin (NW UIB) which covers the bulk of the Karakoram range. Within this subdomain we use climatologies derived from local observations and meteorological reanalyses (ERA-Interim, NASA MERRA-2, HAR)as benchmarks for inter-comparison of individual CORDEX South Asia ensemble members skill in reproducing seasonality and spatial gradients (orographic precipitation profile, temperature lapse rates). Validation of individual CORDEX South Asia ensemble members to this level of detail is indispensable because discontinuities - e.g. differences in latent heat regimes (fusion versus vaporisation) - abound in mountain environments. These discontinuities may undermine widely used statistical approaches (e.g. change factors) used for downscaling and bias correction of future climate projections to locally observed conditions.

IAEA activities in the area of partitioning and transmutation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stanculescu, Alexander

2006-06-01

Four major challenges are facing the long-term development of nuclear energy: improvement of the economic competitiveness, meeting increasingly stringent safety requirements, adhering to the criteria of sustainable development, and public acceptance. Meeting the sustainability criteria is the driving force behind the topic of this paper. In this context, sustainability has two aspects: natural resources and waste management. IAEA's activities in the area of Partitioning and Transmutation (P&T) are mostly in response to the latter. While not involving the large quantities of gaseous products and toxic solid wastes associated with fossil fuels, radioactive waste disposal is today's dominant public acceptance issue. In fact, small waste quantities permit a rigorous confinement strategy, and mined geological disposal is the strategy followed by some countries. Nevertheless, political opposition arguing that this does not yet constitute a safe disposal technology has largely stalled these efforts. One of the primary reasons cited is the long life of many of the radioisotopes generated from fission. This concern has led to increased R&D efforts to develop a technology aimed at reducing the amount and radio-toxicity of long-lived radioactive waste through transmutation in fission reactors or sub-critical systems. In the frame of the Project on Technology Advances in Fast Reactors and Accelerator-Driven Systems (ADS), the IAEA initiated a number of activities on utilization of plutonium and transmutation of long-lived radioactive waste, ADS, and deuterium-tritium plasma-driven sub-critical systems. The paper presents past accomplishments, current status and planned activities of this IAEA project.

Field-dependent critical state of high-Tc superconducting strip simultaneously exposed to transport current and perpendicular magnetic field

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

Xue, Cun; He, An; Yong, Huadong

We present an exact analytical approach for arbitrary field-dependent critical state of high-T{sub c} superconducting strip with transport current. The sheet current and flux-density profiles are derived by solving the integral equations, which agree with experiments quite well. For small transport current, the approximate explicit expressions of sheet current, flux-density and penetration depth for the Kim model are derived based on the mean value theorem for integration. We also extend the results to the field-dependent critical state of superconducting strip in the simultaneous presence of applied field and transport current. The sheet current distributions calculated by the Kim model agreemore » with experiments better than that by the Bean model. Moreover, the lines in the I{sub a}-B{sub a} plane for the Kim model are not monotonic, which is quite different from that the Bean model. The results reveal that the maximum transport current in thin superconducting strip will decrease with increasing applied field which vanishes for the Bean model. The results of this paper are useful to calculate ac susceptibility and ac loss.« less

Enhanced photoelectrochemical and photocatalytic activity in visible-light-driven Ag/BiVO{sub 4} inverse opals

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

Fang, Liang, E-mail: lfang@suda.edu.cn, E-mail: dawei.cao@tu-ilmenau.de; Nan, Feng; Yang, Ying

2016-02-29

BiVO{sub 4} photonic crystal inverse opals (io-BiVO{sub 4}) with highly dispersed Ag nanoparticles (NPs) were prepared by the nanosphere lithography method combining the pulsed current deposition method. The incorporation of the Ag NPs can significantly improve the photoelectrochemical and photocatalytic activity of BiVO{sub 4} inverse opals in the visible light region. The photocurrent density of the Ag/io-BiVO{sub 4} sample is 4.7 times higher than that of the disordered sample without the Ag NPs, while the enhancement factor of the corresponding kinetic constant in photocatalytic experiment is approximately 3. The improved photoelectrochemical and photocatalytic activity is benefited from two reasons: onemore » is the enhanced light harvesting owing to the coupling between the slow light and localized surface plasmon resonance effect; the other is the efficient separation of charge carriers due to the Schottky barriers.« less

Quantum paraelectricity in copper-titanates: Magnetic-order driven vitrification

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

Kumar, Jitender; Awasthi, A. M., E-mail: amawasthi@csr.res.in

2015-07-21

Quantum-paraelectric (QP) family character is emergent from shared low-temperature characteristics of SrCu{sub 3}Ti{sub 4}O{sub 12} (SCTO), CaCu{sub 3}Ti{sub 4}O{sub 12} (CCTO), and Ca{sub 0.9}Li{sub 0.1}Cu{sub 3}Ti{sub 4}O{sub 12} (CLCTO) A{sub 1/4}A′{sub 3/4}BO{sub 3} structures featuring antiferro-tilted Ti-O{sub 6} octahedra. Above their magnetic ordering temperatures T{sub N}, permittivity of SCTO and CLCTO follow typical Barrett form, whereas in CCTO, quantum paraelectricity is masked by the huge ε′-step. Hidden QP in CCTO gets revealed by Li-doping at the Ca-site, which considerably up-shifts the temperature scale (from ∼100 K to ∼250 K) of the dielectric step-anomaly in CLCTO. Competing magneto-electricity and quantum fluctuations result inmore » glassy-arrest of the QP degrees of freedom near T{sub N}; manifest as dispersive-deviation of the permittivity (in SCTO and CLCTO) from the low-temperature Barrett saturation. However, quantum criticality (QC) regime being well above T{sub N} registers its presence nevertheless, as the ∼T{sup 2} behaviour of their inverse dielectric susceptibility. Non-compliance to the usual behaviours of dispersive-response vs. bias-field and temperature unambiguously rule out a relaxor origin of the glassy state. We determine a dimensionless thermal window (0.3 ≤ T/T{sub 1} ≤ 0.6) of QC signature, covering typical quantum-paraelectrics.« less

ON THE IMPACT OF THREE DIMENSIONS IN SIMULATIONS OF NEUTRINO-DRIVEN CORE-COLLAPSE SUPERNOVA EXPLOSIONS

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

Couch, Sean M., E-mail: smc@flash.uchicago.edu

2013-09-20

We present one-dimensional (1D), two-dimensional (2D), and three-dimensional (3D) hydrodynamical simulations of core-collapse supernovae including a parameterized neutrino heating and cooling scheme in order to investigate the critical core neutrino luminosity (L{sub crit}) required for explosion. In contrast to some previous works, we find that 3D simulations explode later than 2D simulations, and that L{sub crit} at fixed mass accretion rate is somewhat higher in three dimensions than in two dimensions. We find, however, that in two dimensions L{sub crit} increases as the numerical resolution of the simulation increases. In contrast to some previous works, we argue that the averagemore » entropy of the gain region is in fact not a good indicator of explosion but is rather a reflection of the greater mass in the gain region in two dimensions. We compare our simulations to semi-analytic explosion criteria and examine the nature of the convective motions in two dimensions and three dimensions. We discuss the balance between neutrino-driven buoyancy and drag forces. In particular, we show that the drag force will be proportional to a buoyant plume's surface area while the buoyant force is proportional to a plume's volume and, therefore, plumes with greater volume-to-surface-area ratios will rise more quickly. We show that buoyant plumes in two dimensions are inherently larger, with greater volume-to-surface-area ratios, than plumes in three dimensions. In the scenario that the supernova shock expansion is dominated by neutrino-driven buoyancy, this balance between buoyancy and drag forces may explain why 3D simulations explode later than 2D simulations and why L{sub crit} increases with resolution. Finally, we provide a comparison of our results with other calculations in the literature.« less

Hybridized Kibble-Zurek scaling in the driven critical dynamics across an overlapping critical region

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhai, Liang-Jun; Wang, Huai-Yu; Yin, Shuai

2018-04-01

The conventional Kibble-Zurek scaling describes the scaling behavior in the driven dynamics across a single critical region. In this paper, we study the driven dynamics across an overlapping critical region, in which a critical region (Region A) is overlaid by another critical region (Region B). We develop a hybridized Kibble-Zurek scaling (HKZS) to characterize the scaling behavior in the driven process. According to the HKZS, the driven dynamics in the overlapping region can be described by the critical theories for both Region A and Region B simultaneously. This results in a constraint on the scaling function in the overlapping critical region. We take the quantum Ising chain in an imaginary longitudinal field as an example. In this model, the critical region of the Yang-Lee edge singularity and the critical region of the ferromagnetic-paramagnetic phase transition overlap with each other. We numerically confirm the HKZS by simulating the driven dynamics in this overlapping critical region. The HKZSs in other models are also discussed.

The gross anatomy laboratory: a novel venue for critical thinking and interdisciplinary teaching in dental education.

PubMed

Rowland, Kevin C; Joy, Anita

2015-03-01

Reports on the status of dental education have concluded that there is a need for various types of curricular reform, making recommendations that include better integration of basic, behavioral, and clinical sciences, increased case-based teaching, emphasis on student-driven learning, and creation of lifelong learners. Dental schools faced with decreasing contact hours, increasing teaching material, and technological advancements have experimented with alternate curricular strategies. At Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine, curricular changes have begun with a series of integrated biomedical sciences courses. During the process of planning and implementing the integrated courses, a novel venue-the gross anatomy laboratory-was used to introduce all Year 1 students to critical thinking, self-directed learning, and the scientific method. The venture included student-driven documentation of anatomical variations encountered in the laboratory using robust scientific methods, thorough literature review, and subsequent presentation of findings in peer review settings. Students responded positively, with over 75% agreeing the experience intellectually challenged them. This article describes the process of re-envisioning the gross anatomy laboratory as an effective venue for small group-based, student-driven projects that focus on key pedagogical concepts to encourage the development of lifelong learners.

Electrically driving large magnetic Reynolds number flows on the Madison plasma dynamo experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weisberg, David; Wallace, John; Peterson, Ethan; Endrezzi, Douglass; Forest, Cary B.; Desangles, Victor

2015-11-01

Electrically-driven plasma flows, predicted to excite a large-scale dynamo instability, have been generated in the Madison plasma dynamo experiment (MPDX), at the Wisconsin Plasma Astrophysics Laboratory. Numerical simulations show that certain topologies of these simply-connected flows may be optimal for creating a plasma dynamo and predict critical thresholds as low as Rmcrit =μ0 σLV = 250 . MPDX plasmas are shown to exceed this critical Rm , generating large (L = 1 . 4 m), warm (Te > 10 eV), unmagnetized (MA > 1) plasmas where Rm < 600 . Plasma flow is driven using ten thermally emissive LaB6 cathodes which generate a J × B torque in Helium plasmas. Detailed Mach probe measurements of plasma velocity for two flow topologies will be presented: edge-localized drive using the multi-cusp boundary field, and volumetric drive using an axial Helmholtz field. Radial velocity profiles show that edge-driven flow is established via ion viscosity but is limited by a volumetric neutral drag force (χ ~ 1 / (ντin)), and measurements of velocity shear compare favorably to Braginskii transport theory. Volumetric flow drive is shown to produce stronger velocity shear, and is characterized by the radial potential gradient as determined by global charge balance.

Photoassociation dynamics driven by a modulated two-color laser field

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

Zhang Wei; Zhao Zeyu; Xie Ting

2011-11-15

Photoassociation (PA) dynamics of ultracold cesium atoms steered by a modulated two-color laser field E(t)=E{sub 0}f(t)cos((2{pi}/T{sub p})-{phi})cos({omega}{sub L}t) is investigated theoretically by numerically solving the time-dependent Schroedinger equation. The PA dynamics is sensitive to the phase of envelope (POE) {phi} and the period of the envelope T{sub p}, which indicates that it can be controlled by varying POE {phi} and period T{sub p}. Moreover, we introduce the time- and frequency-resolved spectrum to illustrate how the POE {phi} and the period T{sub p} influence the intensity distribution of the modulated laser pulse and hence change the time-dependent population distribution of photoassociatedmore » molecules. When the Gaussian envelope contains a few oscillations, the PA efficiency is also dependent on POE {phi}. The modulated two-color laser field is available in the current experiment based on laser mode-lock technology.« less

The high-temperature phases of WO{sub 3}

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

Vogt, T.; Woodward, P.M.; Hunter, B.A.

1999-04-01

High-temperature, high-resolution neutron powder diffraction experiments were performed to investigate the phases of WO{sub 3} between room temperature and 850 C. Two phases were found and characterized by Rietveld refinements: orthorhombic {beta}-WO{sub 3} (Pbcn, a = 7.3331(2), b = 7.5733(2), c = 7.7401(3) {angstrom} at 350 C, tilt system a{sup 0}b{sup +}c{sup {minus}}) and tetragonal {alpha}-WO{sub 3} (P4/ncc, a = 5.27659(1), b = 5.2759(1), c = 7.8462(3) {angstrom} at 800 C, tilt system a{sup 0}a{sup 0}c{sup {minus}}). The sequence of temperature-induced phase transitions in WO{sub 3} can be rationalized in terms of changes in the octahedral tilt systems and/or displacementsmore » of the tungsten out of the center of the WO{sub 6} octahedron. Above room temperature the two phase transitions are driven by successive softening of phonon modes, M{sub 3} at the {alpha}- to {beta}-transition and R{sub 25} at the {beta}- to {gamma}-transition.« less

Unconditionally marginal stability of harmonic electron hole equilibria in current-driven plasmas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schamel, Hans

2018-06-01

Two forms of the linearized eigenvalue problem with respect to linear perturbations of a privileged cnoidal electron hole as a structural nonlinear equilibrium element are established. Whereas its integral form involves integrations along the characteristics or unperturbed particle orbits, the differential form has to cope with a differential operator of infinite order. Both are hence faced with difficulties to obtain a solution. A first successful attempt is, however, made by addressing a single harmonic wave as a nonlinear equilibrium structure. By this microscopic nonlinear approach, its marginal stability against linear perturbations in both linear stability regimes, the sub- and super-critical one, is shown independent of the mobility of ions and in favor with recent observations. Responsible for vanishing damping (growth) is the microscopic distortion of the resonant distribution function. The macroscopic form of the trapping nonlinearity—the 3/2 power term of the electrostatic potential in the density—which disappears in the monochromatic harmonic wave limit is consequently necessary for the occurrence of a nonlinear plasma instability in the sub-critical regime.

Real-time and sub-wavelength ultrafast coherent diffraction imaging in the extreme ultraviolet.

PubMed

Zürch, M; Rothhardt, J; Hädrich, S; Demmler, S; Krebs, M; Limpert, J; Tünnermann, A; Guggenmos, A; Kleineberg, U; Spielmann, C

2014-12-08

Coherent Diffraction Imaging is a technique to study matter with nanometer-scale spatial resolution based on coherent illumination of the sample with hard X-ray, soft X-ray or extreme ultraviolet light delivered from synchrotrons or more recently X-ray Free-Electron Lasers. This robust technique simultaneously allows quantitative amplitude and phase contrast imaging. Laser-driven high harmonic generation XUV-sources allow table-top realizations. However, the low conversion efficiency of lab-based sources imposes either a large scale laser system or long exposure times, preventing many applications. Here we present a lensless imaging experiment combining a high numerical aperture (NA = 0.8) setup with a high average power fibre laser driven high harmonic source. The high flux and narrow-band harmonic line at 33.2 nm enables either sub-wavelength spatial resolution close to the Abbe limit (Δr = 0.8λ) for long exposure time, or sub-70 nm imaging in less than one second. The unprecedented high spatial resolution, compactness of the setup together with the real-time capability paves the way for a plethora of applications in fundamental and life sciences.

The high-β{sub N} hybrid scenario for ITER and FNSF steady-state missions

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

Turco, F.; Petty, C. C.; Luce, T. C.

2015-05-15

New experiments on DIII-D have demonstrated the steady-state potential of the hybrid scenario, with 1 MA of plasma current driven fully non-inductively and β{sub N} up to 3.7 sustained for ∼3 s (∼1.5 current diffusion time, τ{sub R}, in DIII-D), providing the basis for an attractive option for steady-state operation in ITER and FNSF. Excellent confinement is achieved (H{sub 98y2} ∼ 1.6) without performance limiting tearing modes. The hybrid regime overcomes the need for off-axis current drive efficiency, taking advantage of poloidal magnetic flux pumping that is believed to be the result of a saturated 3/2 tearing mode. This allows for efficient currentmore » drive close to the axis, without deleterious sawtooth instabilities. In these experiments, the edge surface loop voltage is driven down to zero for >1 τ{sub R} when the poloidal β is increased above 1.9 at a plasma current of 1.0 MA and the ECH power is increased to 3.2 MW. Stationary operation of hybrid plasmas with all on-axis current drive is sustained at pressures slightly above the ideal no-wall limit, while the calculated ideal with-wall MHD limit is β{sub N} ∼ 4–4.5. Off-axis Neutral Beam Injection (NBI) power has been used to broaden the pressure and current profiles in this scenario, seeking to take advantage of higher predicted kink stability limits and lower values of the tearing stability index Δ′, as calculated by the DCON and PEST3 codes. Results based on measured profiles predict ideal limits at β{sub N} > 4.5, 10% higher than the cases with on-axis NBI. A 0-D model, based on the present confinement, β{sub N} and shape values of the DIII-D hybrid scenario, shows that these plasmas are consistent with the ITER 9 MA, Q = 5 mission and the FNSF 6.7 MA scenario with Q = 3.5. With collisionality and edge safety factor values comparable to those envisioned for ITER and FNSF, the high-β{sub N} hybrid represents an attractive high performance option for the steady-state missions of these devices.« less

Phase Transitions and Scaling in Systems Far from Equilibrium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Täuber, Uwe C.

2017-03-01

Scaling ideas and renormalization group approaches proved crucial for a deep understanding and classification of critical phenomena in thermal equilibrium. Over the past decades, these powerful conceptual and mathematical tools were extended to continuous phase transitions separating distinct nonequilibrium stationary states in driven classical and quantum systems. In concordance with detailed numerical simulations and laboratory experiments, several prominent dynamical universality classes have emerged that govern large-scale, long-time scaling properties both near and far from thermal equilibrium. These pertain to genuine specific critical points as well as entire parameter space regions for steady states that display generic scale invariance. The exploration of nonstationary relaxation properties and associated physical aging scaling constitutes a complementary potent means to characterize cooperative dynamics in complex out-of-equilibrium systems. This review describes dynamic scaling features through paradigmatic examples that include near-equilibrium critical dynamics, driven lattice gases and growing interfaces, correlation-dominated reaction-diffusion systems, and basic epidemic models.

Georgia Tech Studies of Sub-Critical Advanced Burner Reactors with a D-T Fusion Tokamak Neutron Source for the Transmutation of Spent Nuclear Fuel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stacey, W. M.

2009-09-01

The possibility that a tokamak D-T fusion neutron source, based on ITER physics and technology, could be used to drive sub-critical, fast-spectrum nuclear reactors fueled with the transuranics (TRU) in spent nuclear fuel discharged from conventional nuclear reactors has been investigated at Georgia Tech in a series of studies which are summarized in this paper. It is found that sub-critical operation of such fast transmutation reactors is advantageous in allowing longer fuel residence time, hence greater TRU burnup between fuel reprocessing stages, and in allowing higher TRU loading without compromising safety, relative to what could be achieved in a similar critical transmutation reactor. The required plasma and fusion technology operating parameter range of the fusion neutron source is generally within the anticipated operational range of ITER. The implications of these results for fusion development policy, if they hold up under more extensive and detailed analysis, is that a D-T fusion tokamak neutron source for a sub-critical transmutation reactor, built on the basis of the ITER operating experience, could possibly be a logical next step after ITER on the path to fusion electrical power reactors. At the same time, such an application would allow fusion to contribute to meeting the nation's energy needs at an earlier stage by helping to close the fission reactor nuclear fuel cycle.

Investigation of plasma contactors for use with orbiting wires

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Estes, Robert D.; Grossi, Mario D.; Hohlfeld, Robert

1987-01-01

The proposed Shuttle-based short tether experiments with hollow cathodes have the potential for providing important data that will not be obtained in long tether experiments. A critical property for hollow cathode effectiveness as a plasma contactor is the cross magnetic field conductivity of the emitted plasma. The different effects of hollow cathode cloud overlap in the cases of motion-driven and battery-driven operation are emphasized. The calculations presented on the size and shape of the hollow cathode cloud improve the qualitative picture of hollow cathodes in low Earth orbit and provide estimates of time constants for establishing the fully-expanded cloud. The magnetic boundary value problem calculations indicate the way in which the magnetic field will effect the shape of the cloud by resisting expansion in the direction perpendicular to the field. The large-scale interactions of the system were also considered. It was concluded that recent plasma chamber experiments by Stenzel and Urrutia do not model an electrodynamic tether well enough to apply the results to tethered system behavior. Orbiting short tether experiments on hollow cathodes will provide critical information on hollow cathode performance and the underlying physics that cannot be obtained any other way. Experiments should be conducted as soon as funding and a suitable space vehicle are available.

Electrostatically Driven Nanoballoon Actuator.

PubMed

Barzegar, Hamid Reza; Yan, Aiming; Coh, Sinisa; Gracia-Espino, Eduardo; Dunn, Gabriel; Wågberg, Thomas; Louie, Steven G; Cohen, Marvin L; Zettl, Alex

2016-11-09

We demonstrate an inflatable nanoballoon actuator based on geometrical transitions between the inflated (cylindrical) and collapsed (flattened) forms of a carbon nanotube. In situ transmission electron microscopy experiments employing a nanoelectromechanical manipulator show that a collapsed carbon nanotube can be reinflated by electrically charging the nanotube, thus realizing an electrostatically driven nanoballoon actuator. We find that the tube actuator can be reliably cycled with only modest control voltages (few volts) with no apparent wear or fatigue. A complementary theoretical analysis identifies critical parameters for nanotube nanoballoon actuation.

Steady-state shock-driven reactions in mixtures of nano-sized aluminum and dilute hydrogen peroxide

DOE PAGES

Schmitt, Matthew Mark; Bowden, Patrick Robert; Tappan, Bryce C.; ...

2017-09-21

Mixtures of nanoaluminum (nAl) and dilute hydrogen peroxide (HP) were studied to determine their potential to detonate when subjected to explosive shock. Results of explosively driven rate stick experiments revealed steady shock propagation for stoichiometric mixtures of nAl and 10 wt% HP. The critical diameter of this composition is estimated to be between 27.7 and 34.5 mm. Detonation velocities between 3.034 and 3.187 mm/μs were obtained, varying with charge diameter and density. Furthermore this represents the first measured shock-driven, self-sustained reaction in nAl and dilute HP mixtures.

Laser-driven relativistic electron beam interaction with solid dielectric

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

Sarkisov, G. S.; Ivanov, V. V.; Leblanc, P.

2012-07-30

The multi-frames shadowgraphy, interferometry and polarimetry diagnostics with sub-ps time resolution were used for an investigation of ionization wave dynamics inside a glass target induced by laser-driven relativistic electron beam. Experiments were done using the 50 TW Leopard laser at the UNR. For a laser flux of {approx}2 Multiplication-Sign 10{sup 18}W/cm{sup 2} a hemispherical ionization wave propagates at c/3. The maximum of the electron density inside the glass target is {approx}2 Multiplication-Sign 10{sup 19}cm{sup -3}. Magnetic and electric fields are less than {approx}15 kG and {approx}1 MV/cm, respectively. The electron temperature has a maximum of {approx}0.5 eV. 2D interference phasemore » shift shows the 'fountain effect' of electron beam. The very low ionization inside glass target {approx}0.1% suggests a fast recombination at the sub-ps time scale. 2D PIC-simulations demonstrate radial spreading of fast electrons by self-consistent electrostatic fields.« less

The big bang as a result of the first-order phase transition driven by a change of the scalar curvature in an expanding early Universe: The “hyperinflation” scenario

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

Pashitskii, E. A., E-mail: pashitsk@iop.kiev.ua; Pentegov, V. I.

We suggest that the Big Bang could be a result of the first-order phase transition driven by a change in the scalar curvature of the 4D spacetime in an expanding cold Universe filled with a nonlinear scalar field φ and neutral matter with an equation of state p = νε (where p and ε are the pressure and energy density of the matter, respectively). We consider the Lagrangian of a scalar field with nonlinearity φ{sup 4} in a curved spacetime that, along with the term–ξR|φ|{sup 2} quadratic in φ (where ξ is the interaction constant between the scalar and gravitationalmore » fields and R is the scalar curvature), contains the term ξRφ{sub 0}(φ + φ{sup +}) linear in φ, where φ{sub 0} is the vacuum mean of the scalar field amplitude. As a consequence, the condition for the existence of extrema of the scalar-field potential energy is reduced to an equation cubic in φ. Provided that ν > 1/3, the scalar curvature R = [κ(3ν–1)ε–4Λ] (where κ and Λ are Einstein’s gravitational and cosmological constants, respectively) decreases with decreasing ε as the Universe expands, and a first-order phase transition in variable “external field” parameter proportional to R occurs at some critical value R{sub c} < 0. Under certain conditions, the critical radius of the early Universe at the point of the first-order phase transition can reach an arbitrary large value, so that this scenario of unrestricted “inflation” of the Universe may be called “hyperinflation.” After the passage through the phase-transition point, the scalar-field potential energy should be rapidly released, which must lead to strong heating of the Universe, playing the role of the Big Bang.« less

Critical error fields for locked mode instability in tokamaks

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

La Haye, R.J.; Fitzpatrick, R.; Hender, T.C.

1992-07-01

Otherwise stable discharges can become nonlinearly unstable to disruptive locked modes when subjected to a resonant {ital m}=2, {ital n}=1 error field from irregular poloidal field coils, as in DIII-D (Nucl. Fusion {bold 31}, 875 (1991)), or from resonant magnetic perturbation coils as in COMPASS-C ({ital Proceedings} {ital of} {ital the} 18{ital th} {ital European} {ital Conference} {ital on} {ital Controlled} {ital Fusion} {ital and} {ital Plasma} {ital Physics}, Berlin (EPS, Petit-Lancy, Switzerland, 1991), Vol. 15C, Part II, p. 61). Experiments in Ohmically heated deuterium discharges with {ital q}{approx}3.5, {ital {bar n}} {approx} 2 {times} 10{sup 19} m{sup {minus}3} andmore » {ital B}{sub {ital T}} {approx} 1.2 T show that a much larger relative error field ({ital B}{sub {ital r}21}/{ital B}{sub {ital T}} {approx} 1 {times} 10{sup {minus}3}) is required to produce a locked mode in the small, rapidly rotating plasma of COMPASS-C ({ital R}{sub 0} = 0.56 m, {ital f}{approx}13 kHz) than in the medium-sized plasmas of DIII-D ({ital R}{sub 0} = 1.67 m, {ital f}{approx}1.6 kHz), where the critical relative error field is {ital B}{sub {ital r}21}/{ital B}{sub {ital T}} {approx} 2 {times} 10{sup {minus}4}. This dependence of the threshold for instability is explained by a nonlinear tearing theory of the interaction of resonant magnetic perturbations with rotating plasmas that predicts the critical error field scales as ({ital fR}{sub 0}/{ital B}{sub {ital T}}){sup 4/3}{ital {bar n}}{sup 2/3}. Extrapolating from existing devices, the predicted critical field for locked modes in Ohmic discharges on the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) (Nucl. Fusion {bold 30}, 1183 (1990)) ({ital f}=0.17 kHz, {ital R}{sub 0} = 6.0 m, {ital B}{sub {ital T}} = 4.9 T, {ital {bar n}} = 2 {times} 10{sup 19} m{sup {minus}3}) is {ital B}{sub {ital r}21}/{ital B}{sub {ital T}} {approx} 2 {times} 10{sup {minus}5}.« less

MeV electron acceleration at 1kHz with <10 mJ laser pulses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Salehi, Fatholah; Goers, Andy; Hine, George; Feder, Linus; Kuk, Donghoon; Kim, Ki-Yong; Milchberg, Howard

2016-10-01

We demonstrate laser driven acceleration of electrons at 1 kHz repetition rate with pC charge above 1MeV per shot using < 10 mJ pulse energies focused on a near-critical density He or H2 gas jet. Using the H2 gas jet, electron acceleration to 0.5 MeV in 10 fC bunches was observed with laser pulse energy as low as 1.3mJ . Using a near-critical density gas jet sets the critical power required for relativistic self-focusing low enough for mJ scale laser pulses to self- focus and drive strong wakefields. Experiments and particle-in-cell simulations show that optimal drive pulse duration and chirp for maximum electron bunch charge and energy depends on the target gas species. High repetition rate, high charge, and short duration electron bunches driven by very modest pulse energies constitutes an ideal portable electron source for applications such as ultrafast electron diffraction experiments and high rep. rate γ-ray production. This work is supported by the US Department of Energy, the National Science Foundation, and the Air Force Office of Scientific Research.

Functional reconstitution of an ATP-driven Ca sup 2+ -transport system from the plasma membrane of Commelina communis L

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

Graef, P.; Weiler, E.W.

1990-10-01

The protein(s) that constitute(s) the ATP-driven Ca{sup 2+}-translocator of plasma membrane enriched vesicles obtained by aqueous two-phase partitioning from leaves of Commelina communis L. has/have been solubilized and reincorporated into tightly sealed liposomes. The reconstituted Ca{sup 2+}-transport system was studied using ATP-driven {sup 45}Ca{sup 2+} import into the proteoliposomes as a measure of activity. The detergent, 3- ((3-cholamidopropyl) dimethylammonio) -1-propane-sulfonate proved to be the most suitable and was used at 10 millimolar concentration, i.e. just above its critical micellar concentration. The presence of additional phospholipid and ATP improved the solubilization and/or reconstitution. The characteristics of the reconstituted system were similarmore » to those of the plasma membrane-bound activity, including the apparent K{sub m} for Ca{sup 2+} inhibition by relatively high levels of vanadate and lacking response to added calmodulin. The reconstituted transport system was very strongly inhibited by erythrosine B and had a low apparent K{sub m} for ATP levels of the Ca{sup 2+}-ionophore A 23187 instantaneously discharged 90% of the Ca{sup 2+} associated with the vesicles, proving that it had been accumulated in the intravesicular volume in soluble, freely exchangeable form. Ca{sup 2+}-transport in the reconstituted system was thus primary active, through a Ca{sup 2+}-translocating ATPase.« less

Complementary mode analyses between sub- and superdiffusion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saito, Takuya; Sakaue, Takahiro

2017-04-01

Several subdiffusive stochastic processes in nature, e.g., the motion of a tagged monomer in polymers, the height fluctuation of interfaces, particle dynamics in single-file diffusion, etc., can be described rigorously or approximately by the superposition of various modes whose relaxation times are broadly distributed. In this paper, we propose a mode analysis generating superdiffusion, which is paired with or complementary to subdiffusion. The key point in our discussion lies in the identification of a pair of conjugated variables, which undergo sub- and superdiffusion, respectively. We provide a simple interpretation for the sub- and superdiffusion duality for these variables using the language of polymer physics. The analysis also suggests the usefulness of looking at the force fluctuation in experiments, where a polymer is driven by a constant velocity.

An Adaptation of the Distance Driven Projection Method for Single Pinhole Collimators in SPECT Imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ihsani, Alvin; Farncombe, Troy

2016-02-01

The modelling of the projection operator in tomographic imaging is of critical importance especially when working with algebraic methods of image reconstruction. This paper proposes a distance-driven projection method which is targeted to single-pinhole single-photon emission computed tomograghy (SPECT) imaging since it accounts for the finite size of the pinhole, and the possible tilting of the detector surface in addition to other collimator-specific factors such as geometric sensitivity. The accuracy and execution time of the proposed method is evaluated by comparing to a ray-driven approach where the pinhole is sub-sampled with various sampling schemes. A point-source phantom whose projections were generated using OpenGATE was first used to compare the resolution of reconstructed images with each method using the full width at half maximum (FWHM). Furthermore, a high-activity Mini Deluxe Phantom (Data Spectrum Corp., Durham, NC, USA) SPECT resolution phantom was scanned using a Gamma Medica X-SPECT system and the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and structural similarity of reconstructed images was compared at various projection counts. Based on the reconstructed point-source phantom, the proposed distance-driven approach results in a lower FWHM than the ray-driven approach even when using a smaller detector resolution. Furthermore, based on the Mini Deluxe Phantom, it is shown that the distance-driven approach has consistently higher SNR and structural similarity compared to the ray-driven approach as the counts in measured projections deteriorates.

Characterization of hypervelocity metal fragments for explosive initiation

DOE PAGES

Yeager, John D.; Bowden, Patrick R.; Guildenbecher, Daniel R.; ...

2017-07-17

The fragment impact response of two plastic-bonded explosive (PBX) formulations was studied using explosively driven aluminum fragments. A generic aluminum-capped detonator generated sub-mm aluminum particles moving at hypersonic velocities. The ability of these fragments to initiate reaction or otherwise damage two PBX materials was assessed using go/no-go experiments at standoff distances of up to 160 mm. Lower density PBX 9407 (RDX-based) was initiable at up to 115 mm, while higher density PBX 9501 (HMX-based) was only initiable at up to 6 mm. Several techniques were used to characterize the size, distribution, and velocity of the particles. Witness plate materials, includingmore » copper and polycarbonate, and backlit high speed video were used to characterize the distribution of particles, finding that the aluminum cap did not fragment homogeneously but rather with larger particles in a ring surrounding finer particles. Finally, precise digital holography experiments were conducted to measure the three-dimensional shape and size of the fastest-moving fragments, which ranged between 100 and 700 μm and traveled between 2.2 and 3.2 km/s. Crucially, these experiments showed variability in the fragmentation in terms of the number of fragments at the leading edge of the fragment field, indicating that both single and multiple shock impacts could be imparted to the target material. As a result, these types of data are critical for safety experiments and hydrocode simulations to quantify shock-to-detonation transition mechanisms and the associated risk-margins for these materials.« less

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

Yeager, John D.; Bowden, Patrick R.; Guildenbecher, Daniel R.

The fragment impact response of two plastic-bonded explosive (PBX) formulations was studied using explosively driven aluminum fragments. A generic aluminum-capped detonator generated sub-mm aluminum particles moving at hypersonic velocities. The ability of these fragments to initiate reaction or otherwise damage two PBX materials was assessed using go/no-go experiments at standoff distances of up to 160 mm. Lower density PBX 9407 (RDX-based) was initiable at up to 115 mm, while higher density PBX 9501 (HMX-based) was only initiable at up to 6 mm. Several techniques were used to characterize the size, distribution, and velocity of the particles. Witness plate materials, includingmore » copper and polycarbonate, and backlit high speed video were used to characterize the distribution of particles, finding that the aluminum cap did not fragment homogeneously but rather with larger particles in a ring surrounding finer particles. Finally, precise digital holography experiments were conducted to measure the three-dimensional shape and size of the fastest-moving fragments, which ranged between 100 and 700 μm and traveled between 2.2 and 3.2 km/s. Crucially, these experiments showed variability in the fragmentation in terms of the number of fragments at the leading edge of the fragment field, indicating that both single and multiple shock impacts could be imparted to the target material. As a result, these types of data are critical for safety experiments and hydrocode simulations to quantify shock-to-detonation transition mechanisms and the associated risk-margins for these materials.« less

Characterization of hypervelocity metal fragments for explosive initiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yeager, John D.; Bowden, Patrick R.; Guildenbecher, Daniel R.; Olles, Joseph D.

2017-07-01

The fragment impact response of two plastic-bonded explosive (PBX) formulations was studied using explosively driven aluminum fragments. A generic aluminum-capped detonator generated sub-mm aluminum particles moving at hypersonic velocities. The ability of these fragments to initiate reaction or otherwise damage two PBX materials was assessed using go/no-go experiments at standoff distances of up to 160 mm. Lower density PBX 9407 (RDX-based) was initiable at up to 115 mm, while higher density PBX 9501 (HMX-based) was only initiable at up to 6 mm. Several techniques were used to characterize the size, distribution, and velocity of the particles. Witness plate materials, including copper and polycarbonate, and backlit high speed video were used to characterize the distribution of particles, finding that the aluminum cap did not fragment homogeneously but rather with larger particles in a ring surrounding finer particles. Finally, precise digital holography experiments were conducted to measure the three-dimensional shape and size of the fastest-moving fragments, which ranged between 100 and 700 μm and traveled between 2.2 and 3.2 km/s. Crucially, these experiments showed variability in the fragmentation in terms of the number of fragments at the leading edge of the fragment field, indicating that both single and multiple shock impacts could be imparted to the target material. These types of data are critical for safety experiments and hydrocode simulations to quantify shock-to-detonation transition mechanisms and the associated risk-margins for these materials.

Observation of a variable sub-THz radiation driven by a low energy electron beam from a thermionic rf electron gun

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

Smirnov, A. V.; Agustsson, R.; Berg, W. J.

We report observations of an intense sub-THz radiation extracted from a ~3 MeV electron beam with a flat transverse profile propagating between two parallel oversized copper gratings with side openings. Low-loss radiation outcoupling is accomplished using a horn antenna and a miniature permanent magnet separating sub-THz and electron beams. A tabletop experiment utilizes a radio frequency thermionic electron gun delivering a thousand momentum-chirped microbunches per macropulse and an alpha-magnet with a movable beam scraper producing sub-mm microbunches. The radiated energy of tens of micro-Joules per radio frequency macropulse is demonstrated. The frequency of the radiation peak was generated and tunedmore » across two frequency ranges: (476–584) GHz with 7% instantaneous spectrum bandwidth, and (311–334) GHz with 38% instantaneous bandwidth. In this study, the prototype setup features a robust compact source of variable frequency, narrow bandwidth sub-THz pulses.« less

Leptonic Unitarity Triangle and CP-Violation

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

Farzan, Yasaman

2002-02-01

The area of the unitarity triangle is a measure of CP-violation. We introduce the leptonic unitarity triangles and study their properties. We consider the possibility of reconstructing the unitarity triangle in future oscillation and non-oscillation experiments. A set of measurements is suggested which will, in principle, allow us to measure all sides of the triangle, and consequently to establish CP-violation. For different values of the CP-violating phase, {delta}{sub D}, the required accuracy of measurements is estimated. The key elements of the method include determination of |U{sub e3}| and studies of the {nu}{sub {mu}} - {nu}{sub {mu}} survival probability in oscillationsmore » driven by the solar mass splitting {Delta}m{sub sun}{sup 2}. We suggest additional astrophysical measurements which may help to reconstruct the triangle. The method of the unitarity triangle is complementary to the direct measurements of CP-asymmetry. It requires mainly studies of the survival probabilities and processes where oscillations are averaged or the coherence of the state is lost.« less

Observation of a variable sub-THz radiation driven by a low energy electron beam from a thermionic rf electron gun

DOE PAGES

Smirnov, A. V.; Agustsson, R.; Berg, W. J.; ...

2015-09-29

We report observations of an intense sub-THz radiation extracted from a ~3 MeV electron beam with a flat transverse profile propagating between two parallel oversized copper gratings with side openings. Low-loss radiation outcoupling is accomplished using a horn antenna and a miniature permanent magnet separating sub-THz and electron beams. A tabletop experiment utilizes a radio frequency thermionic electron gun delivering a thousand momentum-chirped microbunches per macropulse and an alpha-magnet with a movable beam scraper producing sub-mm microbunches. The radiated energy of tens of micro-Joules per radio frequency macropulse is demonstrated. The frequency of the radiation peak was generated and tunedmore » across two frequency ranges: (476–584) GHz with 7% instantaneous spectrum bandwidth, and (311–334) GHz with 38% instantaneous bandwidth. In this study, the prototype setup features a robust compact source of variable frequency, narrow bandwidth sub-THz pulses.« less

Unraveling atomic-level self-organization at the plasma-material interface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Allain, J. P.; Shetty, A.

2017-07-01

The intrinsic dynamic interactions at the plasma-material interface and critical role of irradiation-driven mechanisms at the atomic scale during exposure to energetic particles require a priori the use of in situ surface characterization techniques. Characterization of ‘active’ surfaces during modification at atomic-scale levels is becoming more important as advances in processing modalities are limited by an understanding of the behavior of these surfaces under realistic environmental conditions. Self-organization from exposure to non-equilibrium and thermalized plasmas enable dramatic control of surface morphology, topography, composition, chemistry and structure yielding the ability to tune material properties with an unprecedented level of control. Deciphering self-organization mechanisms of nanoscale morphology (e.g. nanodots, ripples) and composition on a variety of materials including: compound semiconductors, semiconductors, ceramics, polymers and polycrystalline metals via low-energy ion-beam assisted plasma irradiation are critical to manipulate functionality in nanostructured systems. By operating at ultra-low energies near the damage threshold, irradiation-driven defect engineering can be optimized and surface-driven mechanisms controlled. Tunability of optical, electronic, magnetic and bioactive properties is realized by reaching metastable phases controlled by atomic-scale irradiation-driven mechanisms elucidated by novel in situ diagnosis coupled to atomistic-level computational tools. Emphasis will be made on tailored surface modification from plasma-enhanced environments on particle-surface interactions and their subsequent modification of hard and soft matter interfaces. In this review, we examine current trends towards in situ and in operando surface and sub-surface characterization to unravel atomic-scale mechanisms at the plasma-material interface. This work will emphasize on recent advances in the field of plasma and ion-induced nanopatterning and nanostructuring as well as ultra-thin film deposition. Future outlook will examine the critical role of complementary surface-sensitive techniques and trends towards advances in both in situ and in operando tooling.

Study of density distribution in a near-critical simple fluid (19-IML-1)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Michels, Teun

1992-01-01

This experiment uses visual observation, interferometry, and light scattering techniques to observe and analyze the density distribution in SF6 above and below the critical temperature. Below the critical temperature, the fluid system is split up into two coexisting phases, liquid and vapor. The spatial separation of these phases on earth, liquid below and vapor above, is not an intrinsic property of the fluid system; it is merely an effect of the action of the gravity field. At a fixed temperature, the density of each of the coexisting phases is in principle fixed. However, near T sub c where the fluid is strongly compressible, gravity induced hydrostatic forces will result in a gradual decrease in density with increasing height in the sample container. This hydrostatic density profile is even more pronounced in the one phase fluid at temperatures slightly above T sub c. The experiment is set up to study the intrinsic density distributions and equilibration rates of a critical sample in a small container. Interferometry will be used to determine local density and thickness of surface and interface layers. The light scattering data will reveal the size of the density fluctuations on a microscopic scale.

Double-Diffusive Finger Convection: Flow Field Evolution in a Hele-Shaw Cell

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

COOPER,CLAY A.; GLASS JR.,ROBERT J.; TYLER,SCOTT W.

Double-diffusive finger convection is a hydrodynamic instability that can occur when two components with different diffusivities are oppositely stratified with respect to the fluid density gradient as a critical condition is exceeded. Laboratory experiments were designed using sodium chloride and sucrose solutions in a Hele-Shaw cell. A high resolution, full field, light transmission technique was used to study the development of the instability. The initial buoyancy ratio (R{sub p}), which is a ratio of fluid density contributions by the two solutes, was varied systematically in the experiments so that the range of parameter space spanned conditions that were nearly stablemore » (R{sub p} = 2.8) to those that were moderately unstable (R{sub p} = 1.4). In systems of low R{sub p}, fingers develop within several minutes, merge with adjacent fingers, form conduits, and stall before newer-generated fingers travel through the conduits and continue the process. Solute fluxes in low R{sub p} systems quickly reach steady state and are on the order of 10{sup {minus}6} m{sup 2} sec{sup {minus}1}. In the higher R{sub p} experiments, fingers are slower to evolve and do not interact as dynamically as in the lower R{sub p} systems. Our experiment with initial R{sub p} = 2.8 exhibited flux on the order of that expected for a similar diffusive system (i.e., 10{sup {minus}7} m{sup 2} sec{sup {minus}1}), although the structures were very different than the pattern of transport expected in a diffusing system. Mass flux decayed as t{sup 1/2} in two experiments each with initial R{sub p} = 2.4 and 2.8.« less

Lightwave-driven quasiparticle collisions on a sub-cycle timescale

PubMed Central

Langer, F.; Hohenleutner, M.; Schmid, C.; Poellmann, C.; Nagler, P.; Korn, T.; Schüller, C.; Sherwin, M. S.; Huttner, U.; Steiner, J. T.; Koch, S. W.; Kira, M.; Huber, R.

2016-01-01

Ever since Ernest Rutherford first scattered α-particles from gold foils1, collision experiments have revealed unique insights into atoms, nuclei, and elementary particles2. In solids, many-body correlations also lead to characteristic resonances3, called quasiparticles, such as excitons, dropletons4, polarons, or Cooper pairs. Their structure and dynamics define spectacular macroscopic phenomena, ranging from Mott insulating states via spontaneous spin and charge order to high-temperature superconductivity5. Fundamental research would immensely benefit from quasiparticle colliders, but the notoriously short lifetimes of quasiparticles6 have challenged practical solutions. Here we exploit lightwave-driven charge transport7–24, the backbone of attosecond science9–13, to explore ultrafast quasiparticle collisions directly in the time domain: A femtosecond optical pulse creates excitonic electron–hole pairs in the layered dichalcogenide tungsten diselenide while a strong terahertz field accelerates and collides the electrons with the holes. The underlying wave packet dynamics, including collision, pair annihilation, quantum interference and dephasing, are detected as light emission in high-order spectral sidebands17–19 of the optical excitation. A full quantum theory explains our observations microscopically. This approach opens the door to collision experiments with a broad variety of complex quasiparticles and suggests a promising new way of sub-femtosecond pulse generation. PMID:27172045

Formation and structure of a current sheet in pulsed-power driven magnetic reconnection experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hare, J. D.; Lebedev, S. V.; Suttle, L. G.; Loureiro, N. F.; Ciardi, A.; Burdiak, G. C.; Chittenden, J. P.; Clayson, T.; Eardley, S. J.; Garcia, C.; Halliday, J. W. D.; Niasse, N.; Robinson, T.; Smith, R. A.; Stuart, N.; Suzuki-Vidal, F.; Swadling, G. F.; Ma, J.; Wu, J.

2017-10-01

We describe magnetic reconnection experiments using a new, pulsed-power driven experimental platform in which the inflows are super-sonic but sub-Alfvénic. The intrinsically magnetised plasma flows are long lasting, producing a well-defined reconnection layer that persists over many hydrodynamic time scales. The layer is diagnosed using a suite of high resolution laser based diagnostics, which provide measurements of the electron density, reconnecting magnetic field, inflow and outflow velocities, and the electron and ion temperatures. Using these measurements, we observe a balance between the power flow into and out of the layer, and we find that the heating rates for the electrons and ions are significantly in excess of the classical predictions. The formation of plasmoids is observed in laser interferometry and optical self-emission, and the magnetic O-point structure of these plasmoids is confirmed using magnetic probes.

Anomalous heating and plasmoid formation in a driven magnetic reconnection experiment

DOE PAGES

Hare, J. D.; Suttle, L.; Lebedev, S. V.; ...

2017-02-21

We present a detailed study of magnetic reconnection in a quasi-two-dimensional pulsed-power driven laboratory experiment. Oppositely directed magnetic fields (B=3 T), advected by supersonic, sub-Alfvénic carbon plasma flows (V in = 50 km/s), are brought together and mutually annihilate inside a thin current layer (δ = 0.6 mm). Temporally and spatially resolved optical diagnostics, including interferometry, Faraday rotation imaging, and Thomson scattering, allow us to determine the structure and dynamics of this layer, the nature of the inflows and outflows, and the detailed energy partition during the reconnection process. We measure high electron and ion temperatures (T e = 100more » eV, T i = 600 eV), far in excess of what can be attributed to classical (Spitzer) resistive and viscous dissipation. Finally, we observe the repeated formation and ejection of plasmoids, consistent with the predictions from semicollisional plasmoid theory.« less

CRITICAL EXPERIMENT WITH BORAX-V. Internal Superheater

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

Plumlee, K.E.; Baird, Q.L.; Stanford, G.S.

1963-11-01

A critical experiment was performed with 12 BORAX-V superheater subassemblies in a central voidable region plus 1228 to 1525 UO/sub 2/ fuel pins (3 wt% enriched) in a peripheral region. Removing water (28% of superheater volume) at room temperature decreased reactivity by 2.2%. The midplane (two- dimensional) peak-to-average power distribution in the voided superheater was approximately 1.24, mostly attributable to flux depressions within insulated fuel boxes. Cadmium ratios are also reported. The experiment was initiated to supplement computational information which might have affected plans for loading the superheater zone into the BORAX-V reactor. No changes were indicated by the experiment.more » (auth)« less

Fluctuation driven electroweak phase transition

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gleiser, Marcelo; Kolb, Edward W.

1991-01-01

We examine the dynamics of the electroweak phase transition in the early Universe. For Higgs masses in the range 46 less than or = M sub H less than or = 150 GeV and top quark masses less than 200 GeV, regions of symmetric and asymmetric vacuum coexist to below the critical temperature, with thermal equilibrium between the two phases maintained by fluctuations of both phases. We propose that the transition to the asymmetric vacuum is completed by percolation of these subcritical fluctuations. Our results are relevant to scenarios of baryogenesis that invoke a weakly first-order phase transition at the electroweak scale.

Fluctuation-driven electroweak phase transition. [in early universe

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gleiser, Marcelo; Kolb, Edward W.

1992-01-01

We examine the dynamics of the electroweak phase transition in the early Universe. For Higgs masses in the range 46 less than or = M sub H less than or = 150 GeV and top quark masses less than 200 GeV, regions of symmetric and asymmetric vacuum coexist to below the critical temperature, with thermal equilibrium between the two phases maintained by fluctuations of both phases. We propose that the transition to the asymmetric vacuum is completed by percolation of these subcritical fluctuations. Our results are relevant to scenarios of baryogenesis that invoke a weakly first-order phase transition at the electroweak scale.

Bend losses in rectangular culverts.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2008-09-01

This study investigated bend losses for open channel flow in rectangular channels or culverts. Laboratory experiments were performed for sub-critical flow in rectangular channels with abrupt bends. Bend angles of approximately 30, 45, 60, 75 and 90 d...

On Mixed Data and Event Driven Design for Adaptive-Critic-Based Nonlinear $H_{\\infty}$ Control.

PubMed

Wang, Ding; Mu, Chaoxu; Liu, Derong; Ma, Hongwen

2018-04-01

In this paper, based on the adaptive critic learning technique, the control for a class of unknown nonlinear dynamic systems is investigated by adopting a mixed data and event driven design approach. The nonlinear control problem is formulated as a two-player zero-sum differential game and the adaptive critic method is employed to cope with the data-based optimization. The novelty lies in that the data driven learning identifier is combined with the event driven design formulation, in order to develop the adaptive critic controller, thereby accomplishing the nonlinear control. The event driven optimal control law and the time driven worst case disturbance law are approximated by constructing and tuning a critic neural network. Applying the event driven feedback control, the closed-loop system is built with stability analysis. Simulation studies are conducted to verify the theoretical results and illustrate the control performance. It is significant to observe that the present research provides a new avenue of integrating data-based control and event-triggering mechanism into establishing advanced adaptive critic systems.

Spatiotemporal assessment of historical skill and projected future changes in CORDEX South Asia ensemble simulation of precipitation and temperature for the Upper Indus Basin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Forsythe, Nathan; Fowler, Hayley; Pritchard, David

2017-04-01

High mountain Asia (HMA), including the Hindu Kush-Karakoram, Himalayas and Tibetan Plateau, constitutes one the key "water towers of the world", giving rise to river basins whose resources support hundreds of millions of people. This area is currently experiencing substantial demographic growth and socio-economic development. This evolution will likely continue for the next few decades and compound pressure on resource managements systems from inevitable climate change. In order to develop climate services to support water resources planning and facilitate adaptive capacity building, it is essential to critically characterise the skill and biases of the evaluation (reanalysis-driven) and control (historical period) components of presently available regional climate model (RCM) experiments. For mountain regions in particular, the ability of RCMs to reasonably reproduce the influence of complex topography, through lapse rates and orographic forcing, on sub-regional climate - notably temperature and precipitation - must be assessed in detail. This is vital because the spatiotemporal distribution of precipitation and temperature in mountains determine the seasonality of streamflow from the headwater reaches and of major river basins. Once the biases of individual GCM/RCM experiments have been identified methodologies can be developed for modulating (correcting) the projected patterns of change identified by comparing simulated climate sub-regional climate under specific emissions scenarios (e.g. RCP8.5) to historical representations by the same model (time-slice approach). Such methods could for example include calculating temperature change factors as a function elevation difference from present 0°C (freezing) isotherm rather than simply using the overlying RCM grid cell if for instance the RCM showed exacerbated temperature increase at snow line (i.e. albedo feedback in elevation dependent warming) but also showed a pronounced bias in the historical (vertical) position of the isotherm. HMA falls within the South Asia domain of the Coordinated Regional Downscaling Experiment (CORDEX) initiative to which multiple international modelling centres have contributed RCM experiments. This work evaluates the present publically available CORDEX South Asia experiments including integrations of CCAM, RegCM4, REMO2009 and RCA4. These have been driven by a range of GCMS including ACCESS1.0, CNRM-CM5, GFDL, LMDZ, MPI-ESM, and NorESM. This substantial multi-model ensemble provides a valuable opportunity to explore the spread in model skill at simulation of key characteristics of the present HMA climate. This study focuses geographically within the CORDEX South Asia domain on an orthogonal subdomain from 72E to 77E and 32.5N to 37.5N which covers the bulk of the Karakoram range and key headwaters tributaries of the Indus river basin upon which Pakistan is preponderantly dependent for agricultural water supply and hydro-electric power generation.

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

Hiratsuka, Tatsumasa; Tanaka, Hideki, E-mail: tanaka@cheme.kyoto-u.ac.jp; Miyahara, Minoru T., E-mail: miyahara@cheme.kyoto-u.ac.jp

Capillary condensation in the regime of developing hysteresis occurs at a vapor pressure, P{sub cond}, that is less than that of the vapor-like spinodal. This is because the energy barrier for the vapor-liquid transition from a metastable state at P{sub cond} becomes equal to the energy fluctuation of the system; however, a detailed mechanism of the spontaneous transition has not been acquired even through extensive experimental and simulation studies. We therefore construct accurate atomistic silica mesopore models for MCM-41 and perform molecular simulations (gauge cell Monte Carlo and grand canonical Monte Carlo) for argon adsorption on the models at subcriticalmore » temperatures. A careful comparison between the simulation and experiment reveals that the energy barrier for the capillary condensation has a critical dimensionless value, W{sub c}{sup *} = 0.175, which corresponds to the thermal fluctuation of the system and depends neither on the mesopore size nor on the temperature. We show that the critical energy barrier W{sub c}{sup *} controls the capillary condensation pressure P{sub cond} and also determines a boundary between the reversible condensation/evaporation regime and the developing hysteresis regime.« less

Multiscale Auroral Emission Statistics as Evidence of Turbulent Reconnection in Earth's Midtail Plasma Sheet

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Klimas, Alex; Uritsky, Vadim; Donovan, Eric

2010-01-01

We provide indirect evidence for turbulent reconnection in Earth's midtail plasma sheet by reexamining the statistical properties of bright, nightside auroral emission events as observed by the UVI experiment on the Polar spacecraft and discussed previously by Uritsky et al. The events are divided into two groups: (1) those that map to absolute value of (X(sub GSM)) < 12 R(sub E) in the magnetotail and do not show scale-free statistics and (2) those that map to absolute value of (X(sub GSM)) > 12 R(sub E) and do show scale-free statistics. The absolute value of (X(sub GSM)) dependence is shown to most effectively organize the events into these two groups. Power law exponents obtained for group 2 are shown to validate the conclusions of Uritsky et al. concerning the existence of critical dynamics in the auroral emissions. It is suggested that the auroral dynamics is a reflection of a critical state in the magnetotail that is based on the dynamics of turbulent reconnection in the midtail plasma sheet.

Analysis of a water moderated critical assembly with anisn-Vitamin C

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

Green, L.

1979-03-01

A tightly packed water moderated /sup 233/UO/sub 2/--ThO/sub 2/ critical assembly was analyzed with the Vitamin C library and the 1-D S/s n/ code, ANISN (S/sub 8/,P/sub 3/). The purpose of the study was to provide validation of this calculational model as applied to water-cooled hybrid fusion blankets. The quantities compared were the core eigenvalue and various activation shapes. The calculated eigenvalue was 1.02 +- 0.01. The /sup 233/U fission and /sup 232/Th capture shapes were found to be in good agreement (+-5%) with experiment, except near water--metal boundaries where differences up to 24% were observed. No such error peakingmore » was observed in the /sup 232/Th fast fission shape. We conclude that the model provides good volume averaged reaction rates in water-cooled systems. However, care must be exercised near water boundaries where thermally dependent reaction rates are significantly underestimated.« less

Experiments on two- and three-dimensional vortex flows in lid-driven cavities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Siegmann-Hegerfeld, Tanja; Albensoeder, Stefan; Kuhlmann, Hendrik C.

2009-11-01

Vortex flows in one-sided lid-driven cavities with different cross-sectional aspect ratios (γ = 0.26 up to γ = 6.3) are investigated experimentally. In all cases the spanwise aspect ratio λ>>γ is very large and much larger than most previous experiments. Flow-structure visualizations will be presented together with quantitative LDA and PIV measurements. The experimental results are in good agreement with the critical data from numerical stability analyses and with nonlinear simulations. Experimentally, we find four different three-dimensional instabilities. Particular attention is paid to the so-called C4 mode which arises at large cross-sectional aspect ratios. When the spanwise aspect ratio is small the first bifurcation of the C4 mode is strongly imperfect.

ELECTRON IRRADIATION AND THERMAL PROCESSING OF MIXED-ICES OF POTENTIAL RELEVANCE TO JUPITER TROJAN ASTEROIDS

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

Mahjoub, Ahmed; Poston, Michael J.; Hand, Kevin P.

In this work we explore the chemistry that occurs during the irradiation of ice mixtures on planetary surfaces, with the goal of linking the presence of specific chemical compounds to their formation locations in the solar system and subsequent processing by later migration inward. We focus on the outer solar system and the chemical differences for ice mixtures inside and outside the stability line for H{sub 2}S. We perform a set of experiments to explore the hypothesis advanced by Wong and Brown that links the color bimodality in Jupiter's Trojans to the presence of H{sub 2}S in the surface ofmore » their precursors. Non-thermal (10 keV electron irradiation) and thermally driven chemistry of CH{sub 3}OH–NH{sub 3}–H{sub 2}O (“without H{sub 2}S”) and H{sub 2}S–CH{sub 3}OH–NH{sub 3}–H{sub 2}O (“with H{sub 2}S”) ices were examined. Mid-IR analyses of ice and mass spectrometry monitoring of the volatiles released during heating show a rich chemistry in both of the ice mixtures. The “with H{sub 2}S” mixture experiment shows a rapid consumption of H{sub 2}S molecules and production of OCS molecules after a few hours of irradiation. The heating of the irradiated “with H{sub 2}S” mixture to temperatures above 120 K leads to the appearance of new infrared bands that we provisionally assign to SO{sub 2}and CS. We show that radiolysis products are stable under the temperature and irradiation conditions of Jupiter Trojan asteroids. This makes them suitable target molecules for potential future missions as well as telescope observations with a high signal-to-noise ratio. We also suggest the consideration of sulfur chemistry in the theoretical modeling aimed at understanding the chemical composition of Trojans and KOBs.« less

Principle component analyses of questionnaires measuring individual differences in synaesthetic phenomenology.

PubMed

Anderson, Hazel P; Ward, Jamie

2015-05-01

Questionnaires have been developed for categorising grapheme-colour synaesthetes into two sub-types based on phenomenology: associators and projectors. The general approach has been to assume a priori the existence of two sub-types on a single dimension (with endpoints as projector and associator) rather than explore, in a data-driven fashion, other possible models. We collected responses from 175 grapheme-colour synaesthetes on two questionnaires, the Illustrated Synaesthetic Experience Questionnaire (Skelton, Ludwig, & Mohr, 2009) and Rouw and Scholte's (2007) Projector-Associator Questionnaire. After Principle Component Analysis both questionnaires were comprised of two factors which coincide with the projector/associator distinction. This suggests that projectors and associators are not opposites of each other, but separate dimensions of experience (e.g. some synaesthetes claim to be both, others claim to be neither). The revised questionnaires provide a useful tool for researchers and insights into the phenomenology of synaesthesia. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Application of the SCALE TSUNAMI Tools for the Validation of Criticality Safety Calculations Involving 233U

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

Mueller, Don; Rearden, Bradley T; Hollenbach, Daniel F

2009-02-01

The Radiochemical Development Facility at Oak Ridge National Laboratory has been storing solid materials containing 233U for decades. Preparations are under way to process these materials into a form that is inherently safe from a nuclear criticality safety perspective. This will be accomplished by down-blending the {sup 233}U materials with depleted or natural uranium. At the request of the U.S. Department of Energy, a study has been performed using the SCALE sensitivity and uncertainty analysis tools to demonstrate how these tools could be used to validate nuclear criticality safety calculations of selected process and storage configurations. ISOTEK nuclear criticality safetymore » staff provided four models that are representative of the criticality safety calculations for which validation will be needed. The SCALE TSUNAMI-1D and TSUNAMI-3D sequences were used to generate energy-dependent k{sub eff} sensitivity profiles for each nuclide and reaction present in the four safety analysis models, also referred to as the applications, and in a large set of critical experiments. The SCALE TSUNAMI-IP module was used together with the sensitivity profiles and the cross-section uncertainty data contained in the SCALE covariance data files to propagate the cross-section uncertainties ({Delta}{sigma}/{sigma}) to k{sub eff} uncertainties ({Delta}k/k) for each application model. The SCALE TSUNAMI-IP module was also used to evaluate the similarity of each of the 672 critical experiments with each application. Results of the uncertainty analysis and similarity assessment are presented in this report. A total of 142 experiments were judged to be similar to application 1, and 68 experiments were judged to be similar to application 2. None of the 672 experiments were judged to be adequately similar to applications 3 and 4. Discussion of the uncertainty analysis and similarity assessment is provided for each of the four applications. Example upper subcritical limits (USLs) were generated for application 1 based on trending of the energy of average lethargy of neutrons causing fission, trending of the TSUNAMI similarity parameters, and use of data adjustment techniques.« less

Double-pulse 2-μm integrated path differential absorption lidar airborne validation for atmospheric carbon dioxide measurement.

PubMed

Refaat, Tamer F; Singh, Upendra N; Yu, Jirong; Petros, Mulugeta; Remus, Ruben; Ismail, Syed

2016-05-20

Field experiments were conducted to test and evaluate the initial atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO₂) measurement capability of airborne, high-energy, double-pulsed, 2-μm integrated path differential absorption (IPDA) lidar. This IPDA was designed, integrated, and operated at the NASA Langley Research Center on-board the NASA B-200 aircraft. The IPDA was tuned to the CO₂ strong absorption line at 2050.9670 nm, which is the optimum for lower tropospheric weighted column measurements. Flights were conducted over land and ocean under different conditions. The first validation experiments of the IPDA for atmospheric CO₂ remote sensing, focusing on low surface reflectivity oceanic surface returns during full day background conditions, are presented. In these experiments, the IPDA measurements were validated by comparison to airborne flask air-sampling measurements conducted by the NOAA Earth System Research Laboratory. IPDA performance modeling was conducted to evaluate measurement sensitivity and bias errors. The IPDA signals and their variation with altitude compare well with predicted model results. In addition, off-off-line testing was conducted, with fixed instrument settings, to evaluate the IPDA systematic and random errors. Analysis shows an altitude-independent differential optical depth offset of 0.0769. Optical depth measurement uncertainty of 0.0918 compares well with the predicted value of 0.0761. IPDA CO₂ column measurement compares well with model-driven, near-simultaneous air-sampling measurements from the NOAA aircraft at different altitudes. With a 10-s shot average, CO₂ differential optical depth measurement of 1.0054±0.0103 was retrieved from a 6-km altitude and a 4-GHz on-line operation. As compared to CO₂ weighted-average column dry-air volume mixing ratio of 404.08 ppm, derived from air sampling, IPDA measurement resulted in a value of 405.22±4.15  ppm with 1.02% uncertainty and 0.28% additional bias. Sensitivity analysis of environmental systematic errors correlates the additional bias to water vapor. IPDA ranging resulted in a measurement uncertainty of <3  m.

Relativistic Electron Acceleration with Ultrashort Mid-IR Laser Pulses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Feder, Linus; Woodbury, Daniel; Shumakova, Valentina; Gollner, Claudia; Miao, Bo; Schwartz, Robert; Pugžlys, Audrius; Baltuška, Andrius; Milchberg, Howard

2017-10-01

We report the first results of laser plasma wakefield acceleration driven by ultrashort mid-infrared laser pulses (λ = 3.9 μm , pulsewidth 100 fs, energy <20 mJ, peak power <1 TW), which enables near- and above-critical density interactions with moderate-density gas jets. We present thresholds for electron acceleration based on critical parameters for relativistic self-focusing and target width, as well as trends in the accelerated beam profiles, charge and energy spectra which are supported by 3D particle-in-cell simulations. These results extend earlier work with sub-TW self-modulated laser wakefield acceleration using near IR drivers to the Mid-IR, and enable us to capture time-resolved images of relativistic self-focusing of the laser pulse. This work supported by DOE (DESC0010706TDD, DESC0015516); AFOSR(FA95501310044, FA95501610121); NSF(PHY1535519); DHS.

Comparison of Hansen--Roach and ENDF/B-IV cross sections for $sup 233$U criticality calculations

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

McNeany, S. R.; Jenkins, J. D.

A comparison is made between criticality calculations performed using ENDF/B-IV cross sections and the 16-group Hansen-- Roach library at ORNL. The area investigated is homogeneous systems of highly enriched $sup 233$U in simple geometries. Calculations are compared with experimental data for a wide range of H/$sup 233$U ratios. Results show that calculations of k/sub eff/ made with the Hansen--Roach cross sections agree within 1.5 percent for the experiments considered. Results using ENDF/B-IV cross sections were in good agreement for well-thermalized systems, but discrepancies up to 7 percent in k/sub eff/ were observed in fast and epithermal systems. (auth)

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

Schaffner, D. A.; Carter, T. A.; Rossi, G. D.

Continuous control over azimuthal flow and shear in the edge of the Large Plasma Device (LAPD) [W. Gekelman et al., Rev. Sci. Instr. 62, 2875 (1991)] has been achieved using a biasable limiter. This flow control has allowed a careful study of the effect of flow shear on pressure-gradient-driven turbulence and particle transport in LAPD. The combination of externally controllable shear in a turbulent plasma along with the detailed spatial diagnostic capabilities on LAPD makes the experiment a useful testbed for validation of shear suppression models. Motivated by these models, power-law fits are made to the density and radial velocitymore » fluctuation amplitudes, particle flux, density-potential crossphase, and radial correlation length. The data show a break in the trend of these quantities when the shearing rate (γ{sub s}=∂V{sub θ}/∂r) is comparable to the turbulent decorrelation rate (1/τ{sub ac}). No one model captures the trends in the all turbulent quantities for all values of the shearing rate, but some models successfully match the trend in either the weak (γ{sub s}τ{sub ac}<1) or strong (γ{sub s}τ{sub ac}>1) shear limits.« less

Correlations between critical current density, j{sub c}, critical temperature, T{sub c}, and structural quality of Y{sub 1}B{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub 7-x} thin superconducting films

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

Chrzanowski, J.; Xing, W.B.; Atlan, D.

1994-12-31

Correlations between critical current density (j{sub c}) critical temperature (T{sub c}) and the density of edge dislocations and nonuniform strain have been observed in YBCO thin films deposited by pulsed laser ablation on (001) LaAlO{sub 3} single crystals. Distinct maxima in j{sub c} as a function of the linewidths of the (00{ell}) Bragg reflections and as a function of the mosaic spread have been found in the epitaxial films. These maxima in j{sub c} indicate that the magnetic flux lines, in films of structural quality approaching that of single crystals, are insufficiently pinned which results in a decreased critical currentmore » density. T{sub c} increased monotonically with improving crystalline quality and approached a value characteristic of a pure single crystal. A strong correlation between j{sub c} and the density of edge dislocations N{sub D} was found. At the maximum of the critical current density the density of edge dislocations was estimated to be N{sub D}{approximately}1-2 x 10{sup 9}/cm{sup 2}.« less

Gyrokinetic Studies of Turbulence Reduction with Reverse Shear ETG Transport Barriers or Lithium Walls

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hammett, G. W.; Peterson, J. L.; Granstedt, E. M.; Bell, R.; Guttenfelder, W.; Kaye, S.; Leblanc, B.; Mikkelsen, D. R.; Smith, D. R.; Yuh, H. Y.; Candy, J.

2012-03-01

The National Spherical Torus Experiment (NSTX) can achieve high electron confinement regimes that are super-critically unstable to the electron temperature gradient (ETG) instability. These electron internal transport barriers (e-ITBs) occur when the magnetic shear becomes strongly negative. Using the gyrokinetic code GYRO, the first nonlinear ETG simulations of NSTX e-ITB plasmas demonstrate reduced turbulence consistent with this observation. This is qualitatively consistent with a secondary instability picture of reduced ETG turbulence at negative shear (Jenko and Dorland PRL 2002). Local simulations identify a strongly upshifted nonlinear critical gradient for thermal transport that depends on magnetic shear. Global simulations show that ETG-driven turbulence outside of the barrier is large enough to be experimentally relevant, but cannot propagate very far into the barrier. We also use GYRO to study turbulence in regimes that might be expected in the Lithium Torus eXperiment (LTX). While lithium has experimentally been shown to raise the edge temperature and improve performance, there can still be some turbulence from density-gradient-driven trapped electron modes, and a temperature pinch is found in some cases. (Supported by DOE.)

Enhancing visible light photocatalytic activity of direct Z-scheme SnS{sub 2}/Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} heterojunction photocatalysts

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

Luo, Jin, E-mail: lj328520504@126.com; Zhou, Xiaosong; Ma, Lin

Highlights: • Novel direct Z-scheme SnS{sub 2}/Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} heterojunction photocatalysts are synthesized. • SnS{sub 2}/Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} exhibits much higher photocatalytic activity than pure SnS{sub 2} and Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}. • A possible photocatalytic mechanism was discussed in detail. - Abstract: Novel direct Z-scheme SnS{sub 2}/Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} heterojunction photocatalysts were successfully fabricated with SnS{sub 2} nanoplates hybridized by Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} nanoparticals via a facile hydrothermal and precipitation method and applied for the photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange in aqueous solution under visible light irradiation (λ > 420 nm). It was found that the photocatalytic performance of themore » SnS{sub 2} (2.0 wt%)/Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} heterojunction photocatalyst with 2.0 wt% SnS{sub 2} content was much higher than that of individual SnS{sub 2} and Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}. The enhanced photocatalytic activity could be ascribed to the efficient separation of photogenerated electrons and holes through the formation of direct Z-scheme system composed of SnS{sub 2} and Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}. Furthermore, the recycling experiments revealed that the photocorrosion behavior of Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} was strongly inhibited by SnS{sub 2}, it may be due to the photogenerated electrons of Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} would be quickly combined with the photogenerated holes of SnS{sub 2}. This work will be useful for the design of other direct Z-scheme visible-light-driven photocatalytic systems for application in energy conversion and environmental remediation.« less

Gravitational Effects on Flow Instability and Transition in Low Density Jets

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Agrawal A. K.; Parthasarathy, K.; Pasumarthi, K.; Griffin, D. W.

2000-01-01

Recent experiments have shown that low-density gas jets injected into a high-density ambient gas undergo an instability mode, leading to highly-periodic oscillations in the flow-field for certain conditions. The transition from laminar to turbulent flow in these jets is abrupt, without the gradual change in scales. Even the fine scale turbulent structure repeats itself with extreme regularity from cycle to cycle. Similar observations were obtained in buoyancy-dominated and momentum-dominated jets characterized by the Richardson numbers, Ri = [gD(rho(sub a)-rho(sub j))/rho(sub j)U(sub j)(exp 2) ] where g is the gravitational acceleration, D is the jet diameter, rho(sub a) and rho(sub a) are, respectively, the free-stream and jet densities, and U(sub j) is the mean jet exit velocity. At high Richardson numbers, the instability is presumably caused by buoyancy since the flow-oscillation frequency (f) or the Strouhal number, St = [fD/U(sub j)] scales with Ri. In momentum-dominated jets, however, the Strouhal number of the oscillating flow is relatively independent of the Ri. In this case, a local absolute instability is predicted in the potential core of low-density jets with S [= rho(sub j)/rho(sub a)] < 0.7, which agrees qualitatively with experiments. Although the instability in gas jets of high Richardson numbers is attributed to buoyancy, direct physical evidence has not been acquired in experiments. If the instability is indeed caused by buoyancy, the near-field flow structure of the jet will change significantly when the buoyancy is removed, for example, in the microgravity environment. Thus, quantitative data on the spatial and temporal evolutions of the instability, length and time scale of the oscillating mode and its effects on the mean flow and breakdown of the potential core are needed in normal and microgravity to delineate gravitational effects in buoyant jets. In momentum dominated low-density jets, the instability is speculated to originate in the potential core. However, experiments have not succeeded in identifying the direct physical cause of the instability. For example, the theory predicts an oscillating mode for S<0.62 in the limit of zero momentum thickness, which contradicts with the experimental findings of Kyle and Sreenivasan. The analyses of momentum-dominated jets neglect buoyancy effects because of the small Richardson number. Although this assumption is appropriate in the potential core, the gravitational effects are important in the annular region surrounding the jet, where the density and velocity gradients are large. This reasoning provides basis for the hypothesis that the instability in low Richardosn number jets studied by Kyle and Sreenivasan and Monkewitz et al. is caused by buoyancy. The striking similarity in characteristics of the instability and virtually the identical conclusions reached by Subbarao and Cantwell in buoyant (Ri>0.5) helium jets on one hand and by Kyle and Sreenivasan in momentum-dominated (Ri<1x10(exp -3)) helium jets on the other support this hypothesis. However, quantitative experiments in normal and microgravity are necessary to obtain direct physical evidence of buoyancy effects on the flow instability and structure of momentum-dominated low-density jets. The primary objective of this new research project is to quantify how buoyancy affects the flow instability and structure in the near field of low-density jets. The flow will be described by the spatial and temporal evolutions of the instability, length and time scales of the oscillating mode, and the mean and fluctuating concentration fields. To meet this objective, concentration measurements will be obtained across the whole field using quantitative Rainbow Schlieren Deflectometry, providing spatial resolution of 0.1mm and temporal resolution of 0.017s to 1ms. The experimental effort will be supplemented with linear stability analysis of low-density jets by considering buoyancy. The first objective of this research is to investigate the effects of gravity on the flow instability and structure of low-density jets. The flow instability in these jets has been attributed to buoyancy. By removing buoyancy in our experiments, we seek to obtain the direct physical evidence of the instability mechanism. In the absence of the instability, the flow structure will undergo a significant change. We seek to quantify these changes by mapping the flow field (in terms of the concentration profiles) of these jets at non-buoyant conditions. Such information is presently lacking in the existing literature. The second objective of this research is to determine if the instability in momentum-driven, low-density jets is caused by buoyancy. At these conditions, the buoyancy effects are commonly ignored because of the small Richardson based on global parameters. By eliminating buoyancy in our experiments, globally as well as locally, we seek to examine the possibility that the instability mechanism in self-excited, buoyant or momentum-driven jets is the same. To meet this objective, we would quantify the jet flow in normal and microgravity, while systematically decreasing the Richardson number from buoyancy-driven to momentum driven flow regime. The third objective of this research is to perform a linear stability analysis of low-density gas jets by including the gravitational effects. The flow oscillations in these jets are attributed to an absolute instability, whereby the disturbance grows exponentially at the site to ultimately contaminate the entire flow field. We seek to study the characteristics of both convective and absolute instabilities and demarcate the boundary between them.

Kinematics and dynamics of salt movement driven by sub-salt normal faulting and supra-salt sediment accumulation - combined analogue experiments and analytical calculations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Warsitzka, Michael; Kukowski, Nina; Kley, Jonas

2017-04-01

In extensional sedimentary basins, the movement of ductile salt is mainly controlled by the vertical displacement of the salt layer, differential loading due to syn-kinematic deposition, and tectonic shearing at the top and the base of the salt layer. During basement normal faulting, salt either tends to flow downward to the basin centre driven by its own weight or it is squeezed upward due to differential loading. In analogue experiments and analytical models, we address the interplay between normal faulting of the sub-salt basement, compaction and density inversion of the supra-salt cover and the kinematic response of the ductile salt layer. The analogue experiments consist of a ductile substratum (silicone putty) beneath a denser cover layer (sand mixture). Both layers are displaced by normal faults mimicked through a downward moving block within the rigid base of the experimental apparatus and the resulting flow patterns in the ductile layer are monitored and analysed. In the computational models using an analytical approximative solution of the Navier-Stokes equation, the steady-state flow velocity in an idealized natural salt layer is calculated in order to evaluate how flow patterns observed in the analogue experiments can be translated to nature. The analytical calculations provide estimations of the prevailing direction and velocity of salt flow above a sub-salt normal fault. The results of both modelling approaches show that under most geological conditions salt moves downwards to the hanging wall side as long as vertical offset and compaction of the cover layer are small. As soon as an effective average density of the cover is exceeded, the direction of the flow velocity reverses and the viscous material is squeezed towards the elevated footwall side. The analytical models reveal that upward flow occurs even if the average density of the overburden does not exceed the density of salt. By testing various scenarios with different layer thicknesses, displacement rate or lithological parameters of the cover, our models suggest that the reversal of material flow usually requires vertical displacements between 700 and 2000 m. The transition from downward to upward flow occurs at smaller fault displacements, if the initial overburden thickness and the overburden density are high and if sedimentation rate keeps pace with the displacement rate of the sub-salt normal fault.

Magnetic and Langmuir Probe Measurements on the Plasmoid Thruster Experiment (PTX)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koelfgen, Syri J.; Eskridge, Richard; Lee, Michael H.; Martin, Adam; Hawk, Clark W.; Fimognan, Peter

2004-01-01

The Plasmoid Thruster Experiment (PTX) operates by inductively producing plasmoids in a conical theta-pinch coil and ejecting them at high velocity. A plasmoid is a plasma with an imbedded closed magnetic field structure. The shape and magnetic field structure of the translating plasmoids have been measured with of an array of magnetic field probes. Six sets of two B-dot probes were constructed for measuring B(sub z) and B(sub theta), the axial and azimuthal components of the magnetic field. The probes are wound on a square G10 form, and have an average (calibrated) NA of 9.37 x l0(exp -5) square meters, where N is the number of turns and A is the cross-sectional area. The probes were calibrated with a Helmholtz coil, driven by a high-voltage pulser to measure NA, and by a signal generator to determine the probe's frequency response. The plasmoid electron number density n(sub e) electron temperature T(sub e), and velocity ratio v/c(sub m), (where v is the bulk plasma flow velocity and c(sub m), is the ion thermal speed) have also been measured with a quadruple Langmuir probe. The Langmuir probe tips are 10 mm long, 20-mil diameter stainless steel wire, housed in a 6-inch long 4-bore aluminum rod. Measurements on PTX with argon and hydrogen from the magnetic field probes and quadruple Langmuir probe will be presented in this paper.

Measurement and interpretation of threshold stress intensity factors for steels in high-pressure hydrogen gas.

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

Dadfarnia, Mohsen; Nibur, Kevin A.; San Marchi, Christopher W.

2010-07-01

Threshold stress intensity factors were measured in high-pressure hydrogen gas for a variety of low alloy ferritic steels using both constant crack opening displacement and rising crack opening displacement procedures. The sustained load cracking procedures are generally consistent with those in ASME Article KD-10 of Section VIII Division 3 of the Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, which was recently published to guide design of high-pressure hydrogen vessels. Three definitions of threshold were established for the two test methods: K{sub THi}* is the maximum applied stress intensity factor for which no crack extension was observed under constant displacement; K{sub THa} ismore » the stress intensity factor at the arrest position for a crack that extended under constant displacement; and K{sub JH} is the stress intensity factor at the onset of crack extension under rising displacement. The apparent crack initiation threshold under constant displacement, K{sub THi}*, and the crack arrest threshold, K{sub THa}, were both found to be non-conservative due to the hydrogen exposure and crack-tip deformation histories associated with typical procedures for sustained-load cracking tests under constant displacement. In contrast, K{sub JH}, which is measured under concurrent rising displacement and hydrogen gas exposure, provides a more conservative hydrogen-assisted fracture threshold that is relevant to structural components in which sub-critical crack extension is driven by internal hydrogen gas pressure.« less

Measurement and interpretation of threshold stress intensity factors for steels in high-pressure hydrogen gas.

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

Nibur, Kevin A.

2010-11-01

Threshold stress intensity factors were measured in high-pressure hydrogen gas for a variety of low alloy ferritic steels using both constant crack opening displacement and rising crack opening displacement procedures. The sustained load cracking procedures are generally consistent with those in ASME Article KD-10 of Section VIII Division 3 of the Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, which was recently published to guide design of high-pressure hydrogen vessels. Three definitions of threshold were established for the two test methods: K{sub THi}* is the maximum applied stress intensity factor for which no crack extension was observed under constant displacement; K{sub THa} ismore » the stress intensity factor at the arrest position for a crack that extended under constant displacement; and K{sub JH} is the stress intensity factor at the onset of crack extension under rising displacement. The apparent crack initiation threshold under constant displacement, K{sub THi}*, and the crack arrest threshold, K{sub THa}, were both found to be non-conservative due to the hydrogen exposure and crack-tip deformation histories associated with typical procedures for sustained-load cracking tests under constant displacement. In contrast, K{sub JH}, which is measured under concurrent rising displacement and hydrogen gas exposure, provides a more conservative hydrogen-assisted fracture threshold that is relevant to structural components in which sub-critical crack extension is driven by internal hydrogen gas pressure.« less

A measurable Lawson criterion and hydro-equivalent curves for inertial confinement fusion

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

Zhou, C. D.; Betti, R.; Departments of Mechanical Engineering and Physics and Astronomy, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York 14623

2008-10-15

It is shown that the ignition condition (Lawson criterion) for inertial confinement fusion (ICF) can be cast in a form dependent on the only two parameters of the compressed fuel assembly that can be measured with existing techniques: the hot spot ion temperature (T{sub i}{sup h}) and the total areal density ({rho}R{sub tot}), which includes the cold shell contribution. A marginal ignition curve is derived in the {rho}R{sub tot}, T{sub i}{sup h} plane and current implosion experiments are compared with the ignition curve. On this plane, hydrodynamic equivalent curves show how a given implosion would perform with respect to themore » ignition condition when scaled up in the laser-driver energy. For 3<{sub n}<6 keV, an approximate form of the ignition condition (typical of laser-driven ICF) is {sub n}{sup 2.6}{center_dot}<{rho}R{sub tot}>{sub n}>50 keV{sup 2.6}{center_dot} g/cm{sup 2}, where <{rho}R{sub tot}>{sub n} and {sub n} are the burn-averaged total areal density and hot spot ion temperature, respectively. Both quantities are calculated without accounting for the alpha-particle energy deposition. Such a criterion can be used to determine how surrogate D{sub 2} and subignited DT target implosions perform with respect to the one-dimensional ignition threshold.« less

Observation of low voltage driven green emission from erbium doped Ga{sub 2}O{sub 3} light-emitting devices

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

Chen, Zhengwei; Wang, Xu; Zhang, Fabi

Erbium doped Ga{sub 2}O{sub 3} thin films were deposited on Si substrate by pulsed laser deposition method. Bright green emission (∼548 nm) can be observed by naked eye from Ga{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Er/Si light-emitting devices (LEDs). The driven voltage of this LEDs is 6.2 V which is lower than that of ZnO:Er/Si or GaN:Er/Si devices. Since the wide bandgap of Ga{sub 2}O{sub 3} contain more defect-related level which will enhance the effects of recombination between electrons in the defect-related level and the holes in the valence band, resulting in the improvement of the energy transfer to Er ions. We believe that this workmore » paves the way for the development of Si-based green LEDs by using wide bandgap Ga{sub 2}O{sub 3} as the host materials for Er{sup 3+} ions.« less

Acoustic Experiment to Measure the Bulk Viscosity of Near-Critical Xenon in Microgravity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gillis, K. A.; Shinder, I.; Moldover, M. R.; Zimmerli, G. A.

2002-01-01

We plan a rigorous test of the theory of dynamic scaling by accurately measuring the bulk viscosity of xenon in microgravity 50 times closer to the critical temperature T(sub c) than previous experiments. The bulk viscosity zeta (or "second viscosity" or "dilational viscosity") will be determined by measuring the attenuation length of sound alpha lambda and also measuring the frequency-dependence of the speed of sound. For these measurements, we developed a unique Helmholtz resonator and specialized electro-acoustic transducers. We describe the resonator, the transducers, their performance on Earth, and their expected performance in microgravity.

Developing Critical Thinking of Middle School Students using Problem Based Learning 4 Core Areas (PBL4C) Model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Haridza, R.; E Irving, K.

2017-02-01

Traditional methods such as rote learning and memorization in teaching science create passive students in science classrooms. The impact of this continuous action for many decades is inactive learners who cannot develop higher order thinking skills. Based on the performance test, students’ critical thinking skill in Public Middle School 3 Pontianak was in low level although their achievement score were higher than school standards. The purpose of this study is to develop critical thinking skills of middle school students using Problem Based Learning 4 Core Areas (PBL4C). The design of this research is classroom action research with two cycles. Data has been collected using observation checklist, rating scale, self and peer assessment. Research findings reveal that students experience development from 11.11% to 88.45% in identifying the problem correctly, 37.03% to 76.92% for sub skills distinguish knowledge and opinion, 18.51% to 65.38% for sub skills providing possible solution, 22.22% to 69.23% for sub skills making decision, and 11.11% to 69.23% for sub skills identifying the impact of the implementation of their solution. In conclusion, the findings indicate that development of students’ critical thinking skills occurs when PBL4C model applied in science classroom. These findings suggest that teachers should act as facilitator in a classroom as well as should provide meaningful learning resources that can benefit students’ critical thinking skills. On the other hand, students should practice constantly to offer a sharp, accurate and appropriate solution.

Multiple independent autonomous hydraulic oscillators driven by a common gravity head.

PubMed

Kim, Sung-Jin; Yokokawa, Ryuji; Lesher-Perez, Sasha Cai; Takayama, Shuichi

2015-06-15

Self-switching microfluidic circuits that are able to perform biochemical experiments in a parallel and autonomous manner, similar to instruction-embedded electronics, are rarely implemented. Here, we present design principles and demonstrations for gravity-driven, integrated, microfluidic pulsatile flow circuits. With a common gravity head as the only driving force, these fluidic oscillator arrays realize a wide range of periods (0.4 s-2 h) and flow rates (0.10-63 μl min(-1)) with completely independent timing between the multiple oscillator sub-circuits connected in parallel. As a model application, we perform systematic, parallel analysis of endothelial cell elongation response to different fluidic shearing patterns generated by the autonomous microfluidic pulsed flow generation system.

First Observations of Laser-Driven Acceleration of Relativistic Electrons in a Semi-Infinite Vacuum Space

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

Plettner, T.; Byer, R.L.; Smith, T.I.

2006-02-17

We have observed acceleration of relativistic electrons in vacuum driven by a linearly polarized visible laser beam incident on a thin gold-coated reflective boundary. The observed energy modulation effect follows all the characteristics expected for linear acceleration caused by a longitudinal electric field. As predicted by the Lawson-Woodward theorem the laser driven modulation only appears in the presence of the boundary. It shows a linear dependence with the strength of the electric field of the laser beam and also it is critically dependent on the laser polarization. Finally, it appears to follow the expected angular dependence of the inverse transitionmore » radiation process. experiment as the Laser Electron Accelerator Project (LEAP).« less

Solar Dynamo Driven by Periodic Flow Oscillation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mayr, Hans G.; Hartle, Richard E.; Einaudi, Franco (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

We have proposed that the periodicity of the solar magnetic cycle is determined by wave mean flow interactions analogous to those driving the Quasi Biennial Oscillation in the Earth's atmosphere. Upward propagating gravity waves would produce oscillating flows near the top of the radiation zone that in turn would drive a kinematic dynamo to generate the 22-year solar magnetic cycle. The dynamo we propose is built on a given time independent magnetic field B, which allows us to estimate the time dependent, oscillating components of the magnetic field, (Delta)B. The toroidal magnetic field (Delta)B(sub phi) is directly driven by zonal flow and is relatively large in the source region, (Delta)(sub phi)/B(sub Theta) much greater than 1. Consistent with observations, this field peaks at low latitudes and has opposite polarities in both hemispheres. The oscillating poloidal magnetic field component, (Delta)B(sub Theta), is driven by the meridional circulation, which is difficult to assess without a numerical model that properly accounts for the solar atmosphere dynamics. Scale-analysis suggests that (Delta)B(sub Theta) is small compared to B(sub Theta) in the dynamo region. Relative to B(sub Theta), however, the oscillating magnetic field perturbations are expected to be transported more rapidly upwards in the convection zone to the solar surface. As a result, (Delta)B(sub Theta) (and (Delta)B(sub phi)) should grow relative to B(sub Theta), so that the magnetic fields reverse at the surface as observed. Since the meridional and zonai flow oscillations are out of phase, the poloidal magnetic field peaks during times when the toroidal field reverses direction, which is observed. With the proposed wave driven flow oscillation, the magnitude of the oscillating poloidal magnetic field increases with the mean rotation rate of the fluid. This is consistent with the Bode-Blackett empirical scaling law, which reveals that in massive astrophysical bodies the magnetic moment tends to increase with the angular momentum of the fluid.

Ag@AgHPW as a plasmonic catalyst for visible-light photocatalytic degradation of environmentally harmful organic pollutants

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

Zhou, Wenhui; Cao, Minhua, E-mail: caomh@bit.edu.cn; Li, Na

2013-06-01

Graphical abstract: Ag@Ag{sub x}H{sub 3−x}PW12O40 (Ag@AgHPW) nanoparticles (NPs), a new visible-light driven plasmonic photocatalyst, are prepared by a green photoreduction strategy without the addition of any surfactant, which show a high activity and stability for the degradation of methyl blue (MB) under visible light irradiation. - Highlights: • A new visible-light driven photocatalyst Ag@Ag{sub x}H{sub 3−x}PW{sub 12}O{sub 40} was designed. • The photocatalyst shows a high activity for the degradation of methyl blue. • The high activity can be ascribed to the synergy of photoexcited AgHPW and Ag. - Abstract: Ag@Ag{sub x}H{sub 3−x}PW{sub 12}O{sub 40} (Ag@AgHPW) nanoparticles (NPs), a newmore » visible-light driven plasmonic photocatalyst, are prepared by a green photoreduction strategy without the addition of any surfactant. They show strong absorption in the visible region because of the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) of Ag NPs. This plasmonic photocatalyst shows a high activity and stability for the degradation of methyl blue (MB) under visible light irradiation, which could be attributed to the highly synergy of photoexcited Ag{sub x}H{sub 3−x}PW{sub 12}O{sub 40} (AgHPW) and plasmon-excited Ag NPs and the confinement effects at interfaces between polyoxometalates (POMs) and silver. POM anions have redox ability and high photocatalytic activity, whereas Ag NPs could effectively accelerate the separation of electrons and holes, both of which contribute to their high activity.« less

Development of new critical fluid-based processing methods for nutraceuticals and natural products

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

King, J. W.

2004-01-01

The development of new supercritical fluid processing technology as applied to nutraceuticals and natural products is no longer confined to using just supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) and supercritical carbon dioxide (SC-CO{sub 2}). Recently reported advances have been focused on modifying natural products and improving functionality of an end product using newer experimental techniques and fluid phases. In this presentation four focus areas will be emphasized: (1) control of particle size/morphology and encapsulation of the nutraceutical ingredients, (2) the use of combinatorial methodology to optimize critical fluid processing, (3) application of sub-critical water as a complementary medium for processing natural products,more » and (4) an assessment of the current state of products and processing which use critical fluid to produce nutraceutical and natural products for the food and cosmetic marketplace. Application of the various particle fomiation processes conducted in the presence of critical fluid media, such as: CPF, SAS, DELOS, RESS, PGSS, and GAS, can be used to produce particles of small and uniform distribution, having unique morphologies, that facilitate rapid dissolution or sustained release of many nutraceutical ingredients. These substances have included: therapeutic spices, phystosterols, vitamins, phospholpids, and carotenoids. Accelerating the development of critical fluid processing has been the application of combinatorial methodology to optimize extraction, fractionation, and/or reactions in near-, SC-, or subcritical fluid media. This is frequently accomplished by using sequential or multichannel automated instrumentation that was originally designed for analytical purposes. Several examples will be provided of rapidly assessing the extraction of anthocyanins with sub-critical water and the SFE of natural products. However, differences do exist in conducting experiments on the above instrumentation vs. scaled-up continuous processes, which will be noted. Sub-critical water is finding increase use as an extraction/fractionation or reaction medium. The literature reports applications for the extraction spices, natural antioxidants (rosemary, anthocyanins, etc.), and herbal components (tea and coffee ingredients), Our studies and the literature provide adequate correlations of solute solubility in sub-critical water as well as models for the kinetics of extraction in this medium. Finally, the current state of critical fluid technology as applied to natural products and nutraceuticals will be assessed; noting specific processes, organizations, and products that exist.« less

EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATION OF CRITICAL FUNDAMENTAL ISSUES IN HAZARDOUS WASTE INCINERATION

EPA Science Inventory

The report gives results of a laboratory-scale program investigating several fundamental issues involved in hazardous waste incineration. The key experiment for each study was the measurement of waste destruction behavior in a sub-scale turbulent spray flame. (1) Atomization Qual...

Self-aligned blocking integration demonstration for critical sub-40nm pitch Mx level patterning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raley, Angélique; Mohanty, Nihar; Sun, Xinghua; Farrell, Richard A.; Smith, Jeffrey T.; Ko, Akiteru; Metz, Andrew W.; Biolsi, Peter; Devilliers, Anton

2017-04-01

Multipatterning has enabled continued scaling of chip technology at the 28nm node and beyond. Selfaligned double patterning (SADP) and self-aligned quadruple patterning (SAQP) as well as Litho- Etch/Litho-Etch (LELE) iterations are widely used in the semiconductor industry to enable patterning at sub 193 immersion lithography resolutions for layers such as FIN, Gate and critical Metal lines. Multipatterning requires the use of multiple masks which is costly and increases process complexity as well as edge placement error variation driven mostly by overlay. To mitigate the strict overlay requirements for advanced technology nodes (7nm and below), a self-aligned blocking integration is desirable. This integration trades off the overlay requirement for an etch selectivity requirement and enables the cut mask overlay tolerance to be relaxed from half pitch to three times half pitch. Selfalignement has become the latest trend to enable scaling and self-aligned integrations are being pursued and investigated for various critical layers such as contact, via, metal patterning. In this paper we propose and demonstrate a low cost flexible self-aligned blocking strategy for critical metal layer patterning for 7nm and beyond from mask assembly to low -K dielectric etch. The integration is based on a 40nm pitch SADP flow with 2 cut masks compatible with either cut or block integration and employs dielectric films widely used in the back end of the line. As a consequence this approach is compatible with traditional etch, deposition and cleans tools that are optimized for dielectric etches. We will review the critical steps and selectivities required to enable this integration along with bench-marking of each integration option (cut vs. block).

Spike avalanches in vivo suggest a driven, slightly subcritical brain state

PubMed Central

Priesemann, Viola; Wibral, Michael; Valderrama, Mario; Pröpper, Robert; Le Van Quyen, Michel; Geisel, Theo; Triesch, Jochen; Nikolić, Danko; Munk, Matthias H. J.

2014-01-01

In self-organized critical (SOC) systems avalanche size distributions follow power-laws. Power-laws have also been observed for neural activity, and so it has been proposed that SOC underlies brain organization as well. Surprisingly, for spiking activity in vivo, evidence for SOC is still lacking. Therefore, we analyzed highly parallel spike recordings from awake rats and monkeys, anesthetized cats, and also local field potentials from humans. We compared these to spiking activity from two established critical models: the Bak-Tang-Wiesenfeld model, and a stochastic branching model. We found fundamental differences between the neural and the model activity. These differences could be overcome for both models through a combination of three modifications: (1) subsampling, (2) increasing the input to the model (this way eliminating the separation of time scales, which is fundamental to SOC and its avalanche definition), and (3) making the model slightly sub-critical. The match between the neural activity and the modified models held not only for the classical avalanche size distributions and estimated branching parameters, but also for two novel measures (mean avalanche size, and frequency of single spikes), and for the dependence of all these measures on the temporal bin size. Our results suggest that neural activity in vivo shows a mélange of avalanches, and not temporally separated ones, and that their global activity propagation can be approximated by the principle that one spike on average triggers a little less than one spike in the next step. This implies that neural activity does not reflect a SOC state but a slightly sub-critical regime without a separation of time scales. Potential advantages of this regime may be faster information processing, and a safety margin from super-criticality, which has been linked to epilepsy. PMID:25009473

Evidence for photo-induced monoclinic metallic VO{sub 2} under high pressure

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

Hsieh, Wen-Pin, E-mail: wphsieh@stanford.edu; Mao, Wendy L.; Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305

2014-01-13

We combine ultrafast pump-probe spectroscopy with a diamond-anvil cell to decouple the insulator-metal electronic transition from the lattice symmetry changing structural transition in the archetypal strongly correlated material vanadium dioxide. Coherent phonon spectroscopy enables tracking of the photo-excited phonon vibrational frequencies of the low temperature, monoclinic (M{sub 1})-insulating phase that transforms into the metallic, tetragonal rutile structured phase at high temperature or via non-thermal photo-excitations. We find that in contrast with ambient pressure experiments where strong photo-excitation promptly induces the electronic transition along with changes in the lattice symmetry, at high pressure, the coherent phonons of the monoclinic (M{sub 1})more » phase are still clearly observed upon the photo-driven phase transition to a metallic state. These results demonstrate the possibility of synthesizing and studying transient phases under extreme conditions.« less

Laying the cornerstone: an employee-driven customer service program.

PubMed

Davis, Stephen M; Chinnis, Ann S; Dunmire, J Erin

2006-01-01

In the 21st-century healthcare environment, customer service remains critical to the fiscal viability of healthcare organizations. Continued competition for patients and diminishing reimbursements have necessitated the establishment of customer service programs to attract patients and retain outstanding employees. These programs should increase quality experiences for both internal customers (employees) and external customers (patients). This article describes a unique employee-driven customer service initiative titled Serving Together Achieving Results. Obstacles to implementing a customer service program in a multifaceted academic setting are highlighted, and the use of a novel tool, Q technique, to prioritize employee feedback is discussed.

Proton Radiography of Spontaneous Fields, Plasma Flows and Dynamics in X-Ray Driven Inertial-Confinement Fusion Implosions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, C. K.; Seguin, F. H.; Frenje, J. A.; Rosenberg, M.; Zylstra, A. B.; Rinderknecht, H. G.; Petrasso, R. D.; Amendt, P. A.; Landen, O. L.; Town, R. P. J.; Betti, R.; Knauer, J. P.; Meyerhofer, D. D.; Back, C. A.; Kilkenny, J. D.; Nikroo, A.

2010-11-01

Backlighting of x-ray-driven implosions in empty hohlraums with mono-energetic protons on the OMEGA laser facility has allowed a number of important phenomena to be observed. Several critical parameters were determined, including plasma flow, three types of spontaneous electric fields and megaGauss magnetic fields. These results provide insight into important issues in indirect-drive ICF. Even though the cavity is effectively a Faraday cage, the strong, local fields inside the hohlraum can affect laser-plasma instabilities, electron distributions and implosion symmetry. They are of fundamental scientific importance for a range of new experiments at the frontiers of high-energy-density physics. Future experiments designed to characterize the field formation and evolution in low-Z gas fill hohlraums will be discussed.

Device, system and method for a sensing electrical circuit

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vranish, John M. (Inventor)

2009-01-01

The invention relates to a driven ground electrical circuit. A driven ground is a current-measuring ground termination to an electrical circuit with the current measured as a vector with amplification. The driven ground module may include an electric potential source V.sub.S driving an electric current through an impedance (load Z) to a driven ground. Voltage from the source V.sub.S excites the minus terminal of an operational amplifier inside the driven ground which, in turn, may react by generating an equal and opposite voltage to drive the net potential to approximately zero (effectively ground). A driven ground may also be a means of passing information via the current passing through one grounded circuit to another electronic circuit as input. It may ground one circuit, amplify the information carried in its current and pass this information on as input to the next circuit.

Effects of Gravity on Supercritical Water Oxidation (SCWO) Processes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hegde, Uday; Hicks, Michael

2013-01-01

The effects of gravity on the fluid mechanics of supercritical water jets are being studied at NASA to develop a better understanding of flow behaviors for purposes of advancing supercritical water oxidation (SCWO) technologies for applications in reduced gravity environments. These studies provide guidance for the development of future SCWO experiments in new experimental platforms that will extend the current operational range of the DECLIC (Device for the Study of Critical Liquids and Crystallization) Facility on board the International Space Station (ISS). The hydrodynamics of supercritical fluid jets is one of the basic unit processes of a SCWO reactor. These hydrodynamics are often complicated by significant changes in the thermo-physical properties that govern flow behavior (e.g., viscosity, thermal conductivity, specific heat, compressibility, etc), particularly when fluids transition from sub-critical to supercritical conditions. Experiments were conducted in a 150 ml reactor cell under constant pressure with water injections at various flow rates. Flow configurations included supercritical jets injected into either sub-critical or supercritical water. Profound gravitational influences were observed, particularly in the transition to turbulence, for the flow conditions under study. These results will be presented and the parameters of the flow that control jet behavior will be examined and discussed.

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

Çataltepe, Ö. Aslan, E-mail: ozdenaslan@yahoo.com, E-mail: ozden.aslan@gedik.edu.tr; Özdemir, Z. Güven, E-mail: zguvenozdemir@yahoo.com; Onbaşlı, Ü., E-mail: phonon@doruk.net.tr

In this work, the effect of oxygen doping on the critical parameters of the mercury based superconducting sample such as critical transition temperature, T{sub c}, critical magnetic field, H{sub c}, critical current density, J{sub c}, has been investigated by the magnetic susceptibility versus temperature (χ-T) and magnetization versus applied magnetic field (M-H) measurements and, X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) patterns. It has been observed that regardless of the oxygen doping concentration, the mercury cuprate system possesses two intrinsic superconducting phases together, HgBa{sub 2}Ca{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub 8+x} and HgBa{sub 2}CaCu{sub 2}O{sub 6+x}. However, the highest T{sub c} has been determined for the optimummore » oxygen doped sample. Moreover, it has been revealed that superconducting properties, crystal lattice parameters, coherent lengths, ξ{sub ab}, ξ{sub c} and the anisotropy factor γ etc. are very sensitive to oxygen doping procedures. Hence, the results presented this work enables one to obtain the mercury based superconductor with the most desirable criticals and other parameters for theoretical and technological applications by arranging the oxygen doping concentration.« less

Melt-processing high-T{sub c} superconductors under an elevated magnetic field [Final report no. 2

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

John B. Vander Sande

2001-09-05

This report presents models for crystallographic texture development for high temperature superconducting oxides processed in the absence of a magnetic field and in the presence of a high magnetic field. The results of the models are confirmed through critical experiments. Processing thick films and tapes of high temperature superconducting oxides under a high magnetic field (5-10T) improves the critical current density exhibited.

Oxygen octahedra distortion induced structural and magnetic phase transitions in Bi{sub 1−x}Ca{sub x}Fe{sub 1−x}Mn{sub x}O{sub 3} ceramics

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

Kumar, Pawan; Kar, Manoranjan, E-mail: mano@iitp.ac.in; Shankhwar, Nisha

2015-05-21

The co-doping of Ca and Mn in respective Bi and Fe-sites of BiFeO{sub 3} lattice leads to structural transition from rhombohedral (R3c space group) to orthorhombic (Pbnm space group) crystal symmetry. The tilt angle for anti-phase rotation of the oxygen octahedra of BiFeO{sub 3} at room temperature is observed to be ∼13.8°. It decreases with the increase in the co-doping percentage which suggests the composition-driven structural phase transition. The remnant magnetization for sample with 15% of co-doping becomes about 16 times that of BiFeO{sub 3}. It may be attributed to the suppression of cycloid spin structure and uncompensated spins atmore » the surface of nanocrystallites. Further increase in co-doping percentage results in the sharp reduction of remnant magnetization due to the dominant contribution from the collinear antiferromagnetic ordering in the Pbnm space group. The Arrott plot analysis clearly indicates the composition-driven crossover from the antiferromagnetic to weak ferromagnetic ordering and vice versa. Electron spin resonance results provide the evidence for the composition-driven phase transitions from an incommensurate spin cycloidal modulated state to one with nearly homogeneous spin order. The band gap (2.17 eV) of BiFeO{sub 3} measured using UV-Vis spectra was supported by the resonance Raman spectra.« less

Quantifying the dynamic density driven convection in high permeability packed beds.

PubMed

Teng, Ying; Jiang, Lanlan; Fan, Yingting; Liu, Yu; Wang, Dayong; Abudula, Abuliti; Song, Yongchen

2017-06-01

The density driven convection phenomenon is expected to have a significant and positive role in CO 2 geological storage capacity and safety. The onset and development of density-driven convective on the core scale is critical to understand the mass transfer mechanism. In this paper, laboratory experiments were conducted to investigate the density-driven convective in a vertical tube. The deuterium oxide (D 2 O)/manganese chloride (MnCl 2 ) water solution in water or brine were as an analog for CO 2 -rich brine in original brine. Experiments are repeated with variations in permeability to vary the characteristic Rayleigh number. Based on the MRI technology, the intensity images showed the interface clearly, reflecting the transition from diffusion to convective. With the echo-multi-slice pulse sequence method, the intensity images can be obtained as 2min 8s. For the denser fluid pairs, fingers appeared, propagated, coalesced and multi-fingers formed. The finger growth rate of the convective was visualized as three distinct periods: rising, stable and declining. Detailed information regarding the wave number, wave length, onset time and mixing time as functions of Rayleigh number are developed. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Origami structures with a critical transition to bistability arising from hidden degrees of freedom

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Silverberg, Jesse L.; Na, Jun-Hee; Evans, Arthur A.; Liu, Bin; Hull, Thomas C.; Santangelo, Christian D.; Lang, Robert J.; Hayward, Ryan C.; Cohen, Itai

2015-04-01

Origami is used beyond purely aesthetic pursuits to design responsive and customizable mechanical metamaterials. However, a generalized physical understanding of origami remains elusive, owing to the challenge of determining whether local kinematic constraints are globally compatible and to an incomplete understanding of how the folded sheet’s material properties contribute to the overall mechanical response. Here, we show that the traditional square twist, whose crease pattern has zero degrees of freedom (DOF) and therefore should not be foldable, can nevertheless be folded by accessing bending deformations that are not explicit in the crease pattern. These hidden bending DOF are separated from the crease DOF by an energy gap that gives rise to a geometrically driven critical bifurcation between mono- and bistability. Noting its potential utility for fabricating mechanical switches, we use a temperature-responsive polymer-gel version of the square twist to demonstrate hysteretic folding dynamics at the sub-millimetre scale.

Measurements of cloud condensation nuclei spectra within maritime cumulus cloud droplets: Implications for mixing processes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Twohy, Cynthia H.; Hudson, James G.

1995-01-01

In a cloud formed during adiabatic expansion, the droplet size distribution will be systematically related to the critical supersaturation of the cloud condensation nuclei (CNN), but this relationship can be complicated in entraining clouds. Useful information about cloud processes, such as mixing, can be obtained from direct measurements of the CNN involved in droplet nucleation. This was accomplished by interfacing two instruments for a series of flights in maritime cumulus clouds. One instrument, the counterflow virtual impactor, collected cloud droplets, and the nonvolatile residual nuclei of the droplets was then passed to a CCN spectrometer, which measured the critical supersaturation (S(sub c)) spectrum of the droplet nuclei. The measured S(sub c) spectra of the droplet nuclei were compared with the S(sub c) spectra of ambient aerosol particles in order to identify which CCN were actually incorporated into droplets and to determine when mixing processes were active at different cloud levels. The droplet nuclei nearly always exhibited lower median S(sub c)'s than the ambient aerosol, as expected since droplets nucleate perferentially on particles with lower critical supersaturations. Critical supersaturation spectra from nuclei of droplets near cloud base were similar to those predicted for cloud regions formed adiabatically, but spectra of droplet nuclei from middle cloud levels showed some evidence that mixing had occurred. Near cloud top, the greatest variation in the spectra of the droplet nuclei was observed, and nuclei with high S(sub c)'s were sometimes present even within relatively large droplets. This suggests that the extent of mixing increases with height in cumulus clouds and that inhomogeneous mixing may be important near cloud top. These promising initial results suggest improvements to the experimental technique that will permit more quantitative results in future experiments.

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

Brady, P.; Ditmire, T.; Horton, W.

Magnetosphere-solar wind interactions are simulated in a laboratory setting with a small permanent magnet driven by two types of supersonic plasma wind sources. The first higher speed, shorter duration plasma wind is from a laser blow-off plasma while the second longer duration, lower speed plasma wind is produced with a capacitor discharge driven coaxial electrode creating plasma jets. The stand off distance of the solar wind from the magnetosphere was measured to be 1.7{+-}0.3 cm for the laser-produced plasma experiment and 0.87{+-}0.03 cm for the coaxial electrode plasma experiment. The stand off distance of the plasma was calculated using datamore » from HYADES[J. T. Larsen and S. M. Lane, J. Quant. Spectrosc. Radiat. Transf. 51, 179 (1994)] as 1.46{+-}0.02 cm for the laser-produced plasma, and estimated for the coaxial plasma jet as r{sub mp}=0.72{+-}0.07 cm. Plasma build up on the poles of the magnets, consistent with magnetosphere systems, was also observed.« less

Suppressing electron turbulence and triggering internal transport barriers with reversed magnetic shear in the National Spherical Torus Experimenta)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peterson, J. L.; Bell, R.; Candy, J.; Guttenfelder, W.; Hammett, G. W.; Kaye, S. M.; LeBlanc, B.; Mikkelsen, D. R.; Smith, D. R.; Yuh, H. Y.

2012-05-01

The National Spherical Torus Experiment (NSTX) [M. Ono et al., Nucl. Fusion 40, 557 (2000)] can achieve high electron plasma confinement regimes that are super-critically unstable to the electron temperature gradient driven (ETG) instability. These plasmas, dubbed electron internal transport barriers (e-ITBs), occur when the magnetic shear becomes strongly negative. Using the gyrokinetic code GYRO [J. Candy and R. E. Waltz, J. Comput. Phys. 186, 545 (2003)], the first nonlinear ETG simulations of NSTX e-ITB plasmas reinforce this observation. Local simulations identify a strongly upshifted nonlinear critical gradient for thermal transport that depends on magnetic shear. Global simulations show e-ITB formation can occur when the magnetic shear becomes strongly negative. While the ETG-driven thermal flux at the outer edge of the barrier is large enough to be experimentally relevant, the turbulence cannot propagate past the barrier into the plasma interior.

Study on transient beam loading compensation for China ADS proton linac injector II

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Zheng; He, Yuan; Wang, Xian-Wu; Chang, Wei; Zhang, Rui-Feng; Zhu, Zheng-Long; Zhang, Sheng-Hu; Chen, Qi; Powers, Tom

2016-05-01

Significant transient beam loading effects were observed during beam commissioning tests of prototype II of the injector for the accelerator driven sub-critical (ADS) system, which took place at the Institute of Modern Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, between October and December 2014. During these tests experiments were performed with continuous wave (CW) operation of the cavities with pulsed beam current, and the system was configured to make use of a prototype digital low level radio frequency (LLRF) controller. The system was originally operated in pulsed mode with a simple proportional plus integral and deviation (PID) feedback control algorithm, which was not able to maintain the desired gradient regulation during pulsed 10 mA beam operations. A unique simple transient beam loading compensation method which made use of a combination of proportional and integral (PI) feedback and feedforward control algorithm was implemented in order to significantly reduce the beam induced transient effect in the cavity gradients. The superconducting cavity field variation was reduced to less than 1.7% after turning on this control algorithm. The design and experimental results of this system are presented in this paper. Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China (91426303, 11525523)

Coherent Raman Studies of Shocked Liquids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McGrane, Shawn; Brown, Kathryn; Dang, Nhan; Bolme, Cynthia; Moore, David

2013-06-01

Transient vibrational spectroscopies offer the potential to directly observe time dependent shock induced chemical reaction kinetics. We report recent experiments that couple a hybrid picosecond/femtosecond coherent anti-Stokes Raman spectroscopy (CARS) diagnostic with our tabletop ultrafast laser driven shock platform. Initial results on liquids shocked to 20 GPa suggest that sub-picosecond dephasing at high pressure and temperature may limit the application of this nonresonant background free version of CARS. Initial results using interferometric CARS to increase sensitivity and overcome these limitations will be presented.

Attosecond nanoscale near-field sampling

DOE PAGES

Forg, B.; Schotz, J.; SuBmann, F.; ...

2016-05-31

The promise of ultrafast light-field-driven electronic nanocircuits has stimulated the development of the new research field of attosecond nanophysics. An essential prerequisite for advancing this new area is the ability to characterize optical near fields from light interaction with nanostructures, with sub-cycle resolution. Here we experimentally demonstrate attosecond near-field retrieval for a tapered gold nanowire. Furthermore, by comparison of the results to those obtained from noble gas experiments and trajectory simulations, the spectral response of the nanotaper near field arising from laser excitation can be extracted.

Freshwater discharges drive high levels of methylmercury in Arctic marine biota.

PubMed

Schartup, Amina T; Balcom, Prentiss H; Soerensen, Anne L; Gosnell, Kathleen J; Calder, Ryan S D; Mason, Robert P; Sunderland, Elsie M

2015-09-22

Elevated levels of neurotoxic methylmercury in Arctic food-webs pose health risks for indigenous populations that consume large quantities of marine mammals and fish. Estuaries provide critical hunting and fishing territory for these populations, and, until recently, benthic sediment was thought to be the main methylmercury source for coastal fish. New hydroelectric developments are being proposed in many northern ecosystems, and the ecological impacts of this industry relative to accelerating climate changes are poorly characterized. Here we evaluate the competing impacts of climate-driven changes in northern ecosystems and reservoir flooding on methylmercury production and bioaccumulation through a case study of a stratified sub-Arctic estuarine fjord in Labrador, Canada. Methylmercury bioaccumulation in zooplankton is higher than in midlatitude ecosystems. Direct measurements and modeling show that currently the largest methylmercury source is production in oxic surface seawater. Water-column methylation is highest in stratified surface waters near the river mouth because of the stimulating effects of terrestrial organic matter on methylating microbes. We attribute enhanced biomagnification in plankton to a thin layer of marine snow widely observed in stratified systems that concentrates microbial methylation and multiple trophic levels of zooplankton in a vertically restricted zone. Large freshwater inputs and the extensive Arctic Ocean continental shelf mean these processes are likely widespread and will be enhanced by future increases in water-column stratification, exacerbating high biological methylmercury concentrations. Soil flooding experiments indicate that near-term changes expected from reservoir creation will increase methylmercury inputs to the estuary by 25-200%, overwhelming climate-driven changes over the next decade.

A review of unmanned aircraft system ground risk models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Washington, Achim; Clothier, Reece A.; Silva, Jose

2017-11-01

There is much effort being directed towards the development of safety regulations for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). National airworthiness authorities have advocated the adoption of a risk-based approach, whereby regulations are driven by the outcomes of a systematic process to assess and manage identified safety risks. Subsequently, models characterising the primary hazards associated with UAS operations have now become critical to the development of regulations and in turn, to the future of the industry. Key to the development of airworthiness regulations for UAS is a comprehensive understanding of the risks UAS operations pose to people and property on the ground. A comprehensive review of the literature identified 33 different models (and component sub models) used to estimate ground risk posed by UAS. These models comprise failure, impact location, recovery, stress, exposure, incident stress and harm sub-models. The underlying assumptions and treatment of uncertainties in each of these sub-models differ significantly between models, which can have a significant impact on the development of regulations. This paper reviews the state-of-the-art in research into UAS ground risk modelling, discusses how the various sub-models relate to the different components of the regulation, and explores how model-uncertainties potentially impact the development of regulations for UAS.

Accelerator Driven Nuclear Energy: The Thorium Option

ScienceCinema

Raja, Rajendran

2018-01-05

Conventional nuclear reactors use enriched Uranium as fuel and produce nuclear waste which needs to be stored away for over 10,000 years.   At the current rate of use, existing sources of Uranium will last for 50-100 years.  We describe a solution to the problem that uses particle accelerators to produce fast neutrons that can be used to burn existing nuclear waste and produce energy.  Such systems, initially proposed by Carlo Rubbia and collaborators in the 1990's, are being seriously considered by many countries as a possible solution to the green energy problem.  Accelerator driven reactors operate in a sub-critical regime and, thus, are safer and can obtain energy from plentiful elements such as Thorium-232 and Uranium-238. What is missing is the high intensity (10MW) accelerator that produces 1 GeV protons. We will describe scenarios which if implemented will make such systems a reality.  

Development of fundamental power coupler for C-ADS superconducting elliptical cavities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gu, Kui-Xiang; Bing, Feng; Pan, Wei-Min; Huang, Tong-Ming; Ma, Qiang; Meng, Fan-Bo

2017-06-01

5-cell elliptical cavities have been selected for the main linac of the China Accelerator Driven sub-critical System (C-ADS) in the medium energy section. According to the design, each cavity should be driven with radio frequency (RF) energy up to 150 kW by a fundamental power coupler (FPC). As the cavities work with high quality factor and high accelerating gradient, the coupler should keep the cavity from contamination in the assembly procedure. To fulfil the requirements, a single-window coaxial type coupler was designed with the capabilities of handling high RF power, class 10 clean room assembly, and heat load control. This paper presents the coupler design and gives details of RF design, heat load optimization and thermal analysis as well as multipacting simulations. In addition, a primary high power test has been performed and is described in this paper. Supported by China ADS Project (XDA03020000) and National Natural Science Foundation of China (11475203)

Estimated critical conditions for UF{sub 4}-oil systems in fully oil-reflected spherical geometry

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

Plaster, M.J.

Paraffinic oil has been exposed to UF{sub 6} gas in seal exhaust pumps and cascade equipment at the Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant. The resulting mixture is more nuclearly reactive than mixtures of UO{sub 2}F{sub 2} and H{sub 2}O and is not bounded by the subcritical mass limits presented in several nuclear criticality safety guides. The purpose of this analysis is to determine several critical parameters; specifically, (1) k{sub {infinity}} and the critical mass for several enrichments and moderation levels and (2) the mass limits for these mixtures. The estimated critical masses for the UF{sub 4}-oil systems are smaller than formore » the UO{sub 2}F{sub 2}-H{sub 2}O systems. The suggested mass limits for the UF{sub 4}-oil systems are 0.240, 0.280, 0.350, 0.430, and 0.670, and 1.170 kg {sup 235}U for enrichments of 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, and 3 wt.% {sup 235}U respectively.« less

Double vibrational collision-induced Raman scattering by SF{sub 6}-N{sub 2}: Beyond the point-polarizable molecule model

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

Verzhbitskiy, I. A.; Chrysos, M.; Kouzov, A. P.

2010-11-15

Collision-induced Raman bandshapes and zeroth-order spectral moments are calculated both for the depolarized spectrum and for the extremely weak isotropic spectrum of the SF{sub 6}({nu}{sub 1}) +N{sub 2}({nu}{sub 1}) double-Raman-scattering band. A critical comparison is made with experiments conducted recently by the authors [Phys. Rev. A 81, 012702 (2010); 81, 042705 (2010)]. The study of this transition, hitherto restricted to the model framework of two point-polarizable molecules, is now completed to incorporate effects beyond the point-molecule approximation. Whereas the extended model offers a few percent improvement in the depolarized spectrum, it reveals a huge 80% increase in the isotropic spectrummore » and its moment, owing essentially to the polarizability anisotropy of N{sub 2}. For both spectra, agreement between quantum-mechanical calculations and our experiments is found, provided that the best ab initio data for the (hyper)polarizability parameters are used. This refined study shows clearly the need to include all mechanisms and data to a high level of accuracy and allows one to decide between alternatives about difficult and controversial issues such as the intermolecular potential or the sensitive Hamaker force constants.« less

Design and construction of the X-2 two-stage free piston driven expansion tube

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Doolan, Con

1995-01-01

This report outlines the design and construction of the X-2 two-stage free piston driven expansion tube. The project has completed its construction phase and the facility has been installed in the new impulsive research laboratory where commissioning is about to take place. The X-2 uses a unique, two-stage driver design which allows a more compact and lower overall cost free piston compressor. The new facility has been constructed in order to examine the performance envelope of the two-stage driver and how well it couple to sub-orbital and super-orbital expansion tubes. Data obtained from these experiments will be used for the design of a much larger facility, X-3, utilizing the same free piston driver concept.

A conceptual socio-hydrological model of the co-evolution of humans and water: case study of the Tarim River basin, western China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, D.; Tian, F.; Lin, M.; Sivapalan, M.

2015-02-01

The complex interactions and feedbacks between humans and water are critically important issues but remain poorly understood in the newly proposed discipline of socio-hydrology (Sivapalan et al., 2012). An exploratory model with the appropriate level of simplification can be valuable for improving our understanding of the co-evolution and self-organization of socio-hydrological systems driven by interactions and feedbacks operating at different scales. In this study, a simplified conceptual socio-hydrological model based on logistic growth curves is developed for the Tarim River basin in western China and is used to illustrate the explanatory power of such a co-evolutionary model. The study area is the main stream of the Tarim River, which is divided into two modeling units. The socio-hydrological system is composed of four sub-systems, i.e., the hydrological, ecological, economic, and social sub-systems. In each modeling unit, the hydrological equation focusing on water balance is coupled to the other three evolutionary equations to represent the dynamics of the social sub-system (denoted by population), the economic sub-system (denoted by irrigated crop area ratio), and the ecological sub-system (denoted by natural vegetation cover), each of which is expressed in terms of a logistic growth curve. Four feedback loops are identified to represent the complex interactions among different sub-systems and different spatial units, of which two are inner loops occurring within each separate unit and the other two are outer loops linking the two modeling units. The feedback mechanisms are incorporated into the constitutive relations for model parameters, i.e., the colonization and mortality rates in the logistic growth curves that are jointly determined by the state variables of all sub-systems. The co-evolution of the Tarim socio-hydrological system is then analyzed with this conceptual model to gain insights into the overall system dynamics and its sensitivity to the external drivers and internal system variables. The results show a costly pendulum swing between a balanced distribution of socio-economic and natural ecologic resources among the upper and lower reaches and a highly skewed distribution towards the upper reach. This evolution is principally driven by the attitudinal changes occurring within water resources management policies that reflect the evolving community awareness of society to concerns regarding the ecology and environment.

Estimated critical conditions for UO[sub 2]F[sub 2]--H[sub 2]O systems in fully water-reflected spherical geometry

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

Jordan, W.C.; Turner, J.C.

1992-12-01

The purpose of this report is to document reference calculations performed using the SCALE-4.0 code system to determine the critical parameters of UO[sub 2]F[sub 2]-H[sub 2]O spheres. The calculations are an extension of those documented in ORNL/CSD/TM-284. Specifically, the data for low-enriched UO[sub 2]F[sub 2]-H[sub 2]O spheres have been extended to highly enriched uranium. These calculations, together with those reported in ORNL/CSD/TM-284, provide a consistent set of critical parameters (k[sub [infinity

BRIDGE21--Exploring the Potential to Foster Intrinsic Student Motivation through a Team-Based, Technology-Mediated Learning Model

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lawlor, John; Marshall, Kevin; Tangney, Brendan

2016-01-01

It is generally accepted that intrinsic student motivation is a critical requirement for effective learning but formal learning in school places a huge reliance on extrinsic motivation to focus the learner. This reliance on extrinsic motivation is driven by the pressure on formal schooling to "deliver to the test." The experience of the…

Containment of a silicone fluid free surface in reduced gravity using barrier coatings

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pline, Alexander D.; Jacobson, Thomas P.

1988-01-01

In support of the Surface Tension Driven Convection Experiment planned for flight aboard the Space Shuttle, tests were conducted under reduced gravity in the 2.2-sec Drop Tower and the 5.0-sec Zero-G facility at the NASA Lewis Research Center. The dynamics of controlling the test fluid, a 10-cSt viscosity silicone fluid in a low gravity environment were investigated using different container designs and barrier coatings. Three container edge designs were tested without a barrier coating; a square edge, a sharp edge with a 45-deg slope, and a sawtooth edge. All three edge designs were successful in containing the fluid below the edge. G-jitter experiments were made in scaled down containers subjected to horizontal accelerations. The data showed that a barrier coating is effective in containing silicone fluid under g-levels up to 10 sup -1 sub g sub 0. In addition, a second barrier coating was found which has similar anti-wetting characteristics and is also more durable.

Developing ecosystem service indicators: Experiences and lessons learned from sub-global assessments and other initiatives - new

EPA Science Inventory

People depend upon ecosystems to supply a range of services necessary for their survival and well-being. Ecosystem service indicators are critical for knowing whether or not these essential services are being maintained and used in a sustainable manner, thus enabling policy maker...

Excitonic gap formation in pumped Dirac materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Triola, Christopher; Pertsova, Anna; Markiewicz, Robert S.; Balatsky, Alexander V.

2017-05-01

Recent pump-probe experiments demonstrate the possibility that Dirac materials may be driven into transient excited states describable by two chemical potentials, one for the electrons and one for the holes. Given the Dirac nature of the spectrum, such an inverted population allows the optical tunability of the density of states of the electrons and holes, effectively offering control of the strength of the Coulomb interaction. Here we discuss the feasibility of realizing transient excitonic instabilities in optically pumped Dirac materials. We demonstrate, theoretically, the reduction of the critical coupling leading to the formation of a transient condensate of electron-hole pairs and identify signatures of this state. Furthermore, we provide guidelines for experiments by both identifying the regimes in which such exotic many-body states are more likely to be observed and estimating the magnitude of the excitonic gap for a few important examples of existing Dirac materials. We find a set of material parameters for which our theory predicts large gaps and high critical temperatures and which could be realized in future Dirac materials. We also comment on transient excitonic instabilities in three-dimensional Dirac and Weyl semimetals. This study provides an example of a transient collective instability in driven Dirac materials.

Fast-ion transport in q{sub min}>2, high-β steady-state scenarios on DIII-D

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

Holcomb, C. T.; Heidbrink, W. W.; Collins, C.

2015-05-15

Results from experiments on DIII-D [J. L. Luxon, Fusion Sci. Technol. 48, 828 (2005)] aimed at developing high β steady-state operating scenarios with high-q{sub min} confirm that fast-ion transport is a critical issue for advanced tokamak development using neutral beam injection current drive. In DIII-D, greater than 11 MW of neutral beam heating power is applied with the intent of maximizing β{sub N} and the noninductive current drive. However, in scenarios with q{sub min}>2 that target the typical range of q{sub 95}= 5–7 used in next-step steady-state reactor models, Alfvén eigenmodes cause greater fast-ion transport than classical models predict. Thismore » enhanced transport reduces the absorbed neutral beam heating power and current drive and limits the achievable β{sub N}. In contrast, similar plasmas except with q{sub min} just above 1 have approximately classical fast-ion transport. Experiments that take q{sub min}>3 plasmas to higher β{sub P} with q{sub 95}= 11–12 for testing long pulse operation exhibit regimes of better than expected thermal confinement. Compared to the standard high-q{sub min} scenario, the high β{sub P} cases have shorter slowing-down time and lower ∇β{sub fast}, and this reduces the drive for Alfvénic modes, yielding nearly classical fast-ion transport, high values of normalized confinement, β{sub N}, and noninductive current fraction. These results suggest DIII-D might obtain better performance in lower-q{sub 95}, high-q{sub min} plasmas using broader neutral beam heating profiles and increased direct electron heating power to lower the drive for Alfvén eigenmodes.« less

Linking the micro and macro: L-H transition dynamics and threshold physics

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

Malkov, M. A., E-mail: mmalkov@ucsd.edu; Diamond, P. H.; Miki, K.

2015-03-15

The links between the microscopic dynamics and macroscopic threshold physics of the L → H transition are elucidated. Emphasis is placed on understanding the physics of power threshold scalings, and especially on understanding the minimum in the power threshold as a function of density P{sub thr} (n). By extending a numerical 1D model to evolve both electron and ion temperatures, including collisional coupling, we find that the decrease in P{sub thr} (n) along the low-density branch is due to the combination of an increase in collisional electron-to-ion energy transfer and an increase in the heating fraction coupled to the ions.more » Both processes strengthen the edge diamagnetic electric field needed to lock in the mean electric field shear for the L→H transition. The increase in P{sub thr} (n) along the high-density branch is due to the increase with ion collisionality of damping of turbulence-driven shear flows. Turbulence driven shear flows are needed to trigger the transition by extracting energy from the turbulence. Thus, we identify the critical transition physics components of the separatrix ion heat flux and the zonal flow excitation. The model reveals a power threshold minimum in density scans as a crossover between the threshold decrease supported by an increase in heat fraction received by ions (directly or indirectly, from electrons) and a threshold increase, supported by the rise in shear flow damping. The electron/ion heating mix emerges as important to the transition, in that it, together with electron-ion coupling, regulates the edge diamagnetic electric field shear. The importance of possible collisionless electron-ion heat transfer processes is explained.« less

Correlations between critical current density, j(sub c), critical temperature, T(sub c),and structural quality of Y1B2Cu3O(7-x) thin superconducting films

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chrzanowski, J.; Xing, W. B.; Atlan, D.; Irwin, J. C.; Heinrich, B.; Cragg, R. A.; Zhou, H.; Angus, V.; Habib, F.; Fife, A. A.

1995-01-01

Correlations between critical current density (j(sub c)) critical temperature (T(sub c)) and the density of edge dislocations and nonuniform strain have been observed in YBCO thin films deposited by pulsed laser ablation on (001) LaAlO3 single crystals. Distinct maxima in j(sub c) as a function of the linewidths of the (00 l) Bragg reflections and as a function of the mosaic spread have been found in the epitaxial films. These maxima in j(sub c) indicate that the magnetic flux lines, in films of structural quality approachingthat of single crystals, are insufficiently pinned which results in a decreased critical current density. T(sub c) increased monotonically with improving crystalline quality and approached a value characteristic of a pure single crystal. A strong correlation between j(sub c) and the density of edge dislocations ND was found. At the maximum of the critical current density the density of edge dislocations was estimated to be N(sub D) approximately 1-2 x 10(exp 9)/sq cm.

Off-axis fishbone-like instability and excitation of resistive wall modes in JT-60U and DIII-D

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

Okabayashi, M.; Solomon, W. M.; Budny, R. V.

2011-05-15

An energetic-particle (EP)-driven ''off-axis-fishbone-like mode (OFM)'' often triggers a resistive wall mode (RWM) in JT-60U and DIII-D devices, preventing long-duration high-{beta}{sub N} discharges. In these experiments, the EPs are energetic ions (70-85 keV) injected by neutral beams to produce high-pressure plasmas. EP-driven bursting events reduce the EP density and the plasma rotation simultaneously. These changes are significant in high-{beta}{sub N} low-rotation plasmas, where the RWM stability is predicted to be strongly influenced by the EP precession drift resonance and by the plasma rotation near the q=2 surface (kinetic effects). Analysis of these effects on stability with a self-consistent perturbation tomore » the mode structure using the MARS-K code showed that the impact of EP losses and rotation drop is sufficient to destabilize the RWM in low-rotation plasmas, when the plasma rotation normalized by Alfven frequency is only a few tenths of a percent near the q=2 surface. The OFM characteristics are very similar in JT-60U and DIII-D, including nonlinear mode evolution. The modes grow initially like a classical fishbone, and then the mode structure becomes strongly distorted. The dynamic response of the OFM to an applied n=1 external field indicates that the mode retains its external kink character. These comparative studies suggest that an energetic particle-driven 'off-axis-fishbone-like mode' is a new EP-driven branch of the external kink mode in wall-stabilized plasmas, analogous to the relationship of the classical fishbone branch to the internal kink mode.« less

Element-resolved atomic structure imaging of rocksalt Ge{sub 2}Sb{sub 2}Te{sub 5} phase-change material

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

Zhang, Bin; Chen, Yongjin; Han, Xiaodong, E-mail: wzhang0@mail.xjtu.edu.cn, E-mail: ema@jhu.edu, E-mail: xdhan@bjut.edu.cn

Disorder-induced electron localization and metal-insulator transitions (MITs) have been a very active research field starting from the seminal paper by Anderson half a century ago. However, pure Anderson insulators are very difficult to identify due to ubiquitous electron-correlation effects. Recently, an MIT has been observed in electrical transport measurements on the crystalline state of phase-change GeSbTe compounds, which appears to be exclusively disorder driven. Subsequent density functional theory simulations have identified vacancy disorder to localize electrons at the Fermi level. Here, we report a direct atomic scale chemical identification experiment on the rocksalt structure obtained upon crystallization of amorphous Ge{submore » 2}Sb{sub 2}Te{sub 5}. Our results confirm the two-sublattice structure resolving the distribution of chemical species and demonstrate the existence of atomic disorder on the Ge/Sb/vacancy sublattice. Moreover, we identify a gradual vacancy ordering process upon further annealing. These findings not only provide a structural underpinning of the observed Anderson localization but also have implications for the development of novel multi-level data storage within the crystalline phases.« less

How Can the Operating Environment for Nutrition Research Be Improved in Sub-Saharan Africa? The Views of African Researchers

PubMed Central

Van Royen, Kathleen; Lachat, Carl; Holdsworth, Michelle; Smit, Karlien; Kinabo, Joyce; Roberfroid, Dominique; Nago, Eunice; Garimoi Orach, Christopher; Kolsteren, Patrick

2013-01-01

Optimal nutrition is critical for human development and economic growth. Sub-Saharan Africa is facing high levels of food insecurity and only few sub-Saharan African countries are on track to eradicate extreme poverty and hunger by 2015. Effective research capacity is crucial for addressing emerging challenges and designing appropriate mitigation strategies in sub-Saharan Africa. A clear understanding of the operating environment for nutrition research in sub-Saharan Africa is a much needed prerequisite. We collected data on the barriers and requirements for conducting nutrition research in sub-Saharan Africa through semi-structured interviews with 144 participants involved in nutrition research in 35 countries in sub-Saharan Africa. A total of 133 interviews were retained for coding. The main barriers identified for effective nutrition research were the lack of funding due to poor recognition by policymakers of the importance of nutrition research and under-utilisation of research findings for developing policy, as well as an absence of research priority setting from within Africa. Current research topics were perceived to be mainly determined by funding bodies from outside Africa. Nutrition researchers argued for more commitment from policymakers at national level. The low capacity for nutrition research was mainly seen as a consequence of insufficient numbers of nutrition researchers, limited skills and a poor research infrastructure. In conclusion, African nutrition researchers argued how research priorities need to be identified by African stakeholders, accompanied by consensus building to enable creating a problem-driven national research agenda. In addition, it was considered necessary to promote interactions among researchers, and between researchers and policymakers. Multidisciplinary research and international and cross-African collaboration were seen as crucial to build capacity in sub-Saharan nutrition research. PMID:23776663

Rhombohedral R3c to orthorhombic Pnma phase transition induced by Y-doping in BiFeO₃.

PubMed

Graf, Monica Elisabet; Di Napoli, Solange; Barral, Maria Andrea Andrea; Saleh Medina, Leila; Negri, R Martín; Sepliarsky, Marcelo; Llois, Ana María

2018-05-23

In this work we study, by means of <i>ab initio</i> calculations, the structural, electronic and magnetic properties of Y-doped BiFeO₃ compounds. We determine that there is a morphotropic phase boundary at an yttrium concentration of (18 ± 2)%, where the structure changes from <i>R3c</i> to <i>Pnma</i>. This structural transition is driven by the chemical pressure induced by the dopant. By analyzing the evolution of the oxygen octahedral tilts we find an enhanced antiferrodistortive distortion when increasing the Y-doping, together with a reduction of the ferroelectric distorsion, that gives rise to a smaller value of the electric polarization. These cooperative effects should lead to a larger canting of the Fe magnetic moments and to a larger ferromagnetic response in the <i>R3c</i> phase, as it is observed in the experiments. . © 2018 IOP Publishing Ltd.

WO{sub 3} nanoplates, hierarchical flower-like assemblies and their photocatalytic properties

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

Huang, Jianhua, E-mail: jhhuang@zstu.edu.cn; Xiao, Liang; Yang, Xiaolong

Graphical abstract: WO{sub 3} nanoplates, hierarchical flower-like assemblies and their visible light-driven photocatalytic properties for degradation of rhodamine B. - Highlights: • Preparation of monoclinic WO{sub 3} by a hydrothermal reaction of PbWO{sub 4} in the presence of HNO{sub 3}. • Single-crystalline WO{sub 3} nanoplates were formed when 4 M HNO{sub 3} solution was used. • WO{sub 3} flowers were assembled by nanoplates when 15 M HNO{sub 3} solution was used. • The products showed excellent visible light-driven photodegradation of rhodamine B. - Abstract: Monoclinic WO{sub 3} was prepared by a hydrothermal reaction of PbWO{sub 4} in the presence ofmore » HNO{sub 3}. WO{sub 3} rectangular nanoplates with a side length of 50–150 nm and a thickness of about 25 nm were obtained at 4 M HNO{sub 3} solution. And the single crystal nature was confirmed by the selected area electron diffraction. Whereas WO{sub 3} hierarchical flower-like assemblies with 3–5 μm in diameter were self-organized by nanoplates in the presence of 15 M HNO{sub 3} solution. Compared with commercial WO{sub 3} particles, our products showed an enhancement of photocatalytic properties for the degradation of rhodamine B under visible light irradiation.« less

Linking sleep and general anesthesia mechanisms: this is no walkover.

PubMed

Bonhomme, V; Boveroux, P; Vanhaudenhuyse, A; Hans, P; Brichant, J F; Jaquet, O; Boly, M; Laureys, S

2011-01-01

This review aims at defining the link between physiological sleep and general anesthesia. Despite common behavioral and electrophysiological characteristics between both states, current literature suggests that the transition process between waking and sleep or anesthesia-induced alteration of consciousness is not driven by the same sequence of events. On the one hand, sleep originates in sub-cortical structures with subsequent repercussions on thalamo-cortical interactions and cortical activity. On the other hand, anesthesia seems to primarily affect the cortex with subsequent repercussions on the activity of sub-cortical networks. This discrepancy has yet to be confirmed by further functional brain imaging and electrophysiological experiments. The relationship between the observed functional modifications of brain activity during anesthesia and the known biochemical targets of hypnotic anesthetic agents also remains to be determined.

Control of the Ability of Profilin to Bind and Facilitate Nucleotide Exchange from G-actin*

PubMed Central

Wen, Kuo-Kuang; McKane, Melissa; Houtman, Jon C. D.; Rubenstein, Peter A.

2008-01-01

A major factor in profilin regulation of actin cytoskeletal dynamics is its facilitation of G-actin nucleotide exchange. However, the mechanism of this facilitation is unknown. We studied the interaction of yeast (YPF) and human profilin 1 (HPF1) with yeast and mammalian skeletal muscle actins. Homologous pairs (YPF and yeast actin, HPF1 and muscle actin) bound more tightly to one another than heterologous pairs. However, with saturating profilin, HPF1 caused a faster etheno-ATP exchange with both yeast and muscle actins than did YPF. Based on the -fold change in ATP exchange rate/Kd, however, the homologous pairs are more efficient than the heterologous pairs. Thus, strength of binding of profilin to actin and nucleotide exchange rate are not tightly coupled. Actin/HPF interactions were entropically driven, whereas YPF interactions were enthalpically driven. Hybrid yeast actins containing subdomain 1 (sub1) or subdomain 1 and 2 (sub12) muscle actin residues bound more weakly to YPF than did yeast actin (Kd = 2 μm versus 0.6 μm). These hybrids bound even more weakly to HPF than did yeast actin (Kd = 5 μm versus 3.2 μm). sub1/YPF interactions were entropically driven, whereas the sub12/YPF binding was enthalpically driven. Compared with WT yeast actin, YPF binding to sub1 occurred with a 5 times faster koff and a 2 times faster kon. sub12 bound with a 3 times faster koff and a 1.5 times slower kon. Profilin controls the energetics of its interaction with nonhybrid actin, but interactions between actin subdomains 1 and 2 affect the topography of the profilin binding site. PMID:18223293

Pulse Detonation Rocket Magnetohydrodynamic Power Experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Litchford, R. J.; Jones, J. E.; Dobson, C. C.; Cole, J. W.; Thompson, B. R.; Plemmons, D. H.; Turner, M. W.

2003-01-01

The production of onboard electrical power by pulse detonation engines is problematic in that they generate no shaft power; however, pulse detonation driven magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) power generation represents one intriguing possibility for attaining self-sustained engine operation and generating large quantities of burst power for onboard electrical systems. To examine this possibility further, a simple heat-sink apparatus was developed for experimentally investigating pulse detonation driven MHD generator concepts. The hydrogen oxygen fired driver was a 90 cm long stainless steel tube having a 4.5 cm square internal cross section and a short Schelkin spiral near the head end to promote rapid formation of a detonation wave. The tube was intermittently filled to atmospheric pressure and seeded with a CsOH/methanol prior to ignition by electrical spark. The driver exhausted through an aluminum nozzle having an area contraction ratio of A*/A(sub zeta) = 1/10 and an area expansion ratio of A(sub zeta)/A* = 3.2 (as limited by available magnet bore size). The nozzle exhausted through a 24-electrode segmented Faraday channel (30.5 cm active length), which was inserted into a 0.6 T permanent magnet assembly. Initial experiments verified proper drive operation with and without the nozzle attachment, and head end pressure and time resolved thrust measurements were acquired. The exhaust jet from the nozzle was interrogated using a polychromatic microwave interferometer yielding an electron number density on the order of 10(exp 12)/cm at the generator entrance. In this case, MHD power generation experiments suffered from severe near-electrode voltage drops and low MHD interaction; i.e., low flow velocity, due to an inherent physical constraint on expansion with the available magnet. Increased scaling, improved seeding techniques, higher magnetic fields, and higher expansion ratios are expected to greatly improve performance.

Estimated critical conditions for UO{sub 2}F{sub 2}--H{sub 2}O systems in fully water-reflected spherical geometry

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

Jordan, W.C.; Turner, J.C.

1992-12-01

The purpose of this report is to document reference calculations performed using the SCALE-4.0 code system to determine the critical parameters of UO{sub 2}F{sub 2}-H{sub 2}O spheres. The calculations are an extension of those documented in ORNL/CSD/TM-284. Specifically, the data for low-enriched UO{sub 2}F{sub 2}-H{sub 2}O spheres have been extended to highly enriched uranium. These calculations, together with those reported in ORNL/CSD/TM-284, provide a consistent set of critical parameters (k{sub {infinity}}, volume, mass, mass of water) for UO{sub 2}F{sub 2} and water over the full range of enrichment and moderation ratio.

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

He Liang; Xiu Faxian; Huang Guan

In this paper, we report the epitaxial growth of Bi{sub 2}Se{sub 3} thin films on Si (111) substrate, using molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). We show that the as-grown samples have good crystalline quality, and their surfaces exhibit terracelike quintuple layers. Angel-resolved photoemission experiments demonstrate single-Dirac-conelike surface states. These results combined with the temperature- and thickness-dependent magneto-transport measurements, suggest the presence of a shallow impurity band. Below a critical temperature of {approx}100K, the surface states of a 7 nm thick film contribute up to 50% of the total conduction.

Fluid simulation of relativistic electron beam driven wakefield in a cold plasma

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

Bera, Ratan Kumar; Sengupta, Sudip; Das, Amita

Excitation of wakefield in a cold homogeneous plasma, driven by an ultra-relativistic electron beam is studied in one dimension using fluid simulation techniques. For a homogeneous rigid beam having density (n{sub b}) less than or equal to half the plasma density (n{sub 0}), simulation results are found to be in good agreement with the analytical work of Rosenzweig [Phys. Rev. Lett. 58, 555 (1987)]. Here, Rosenzweig's work has been analytically extended to regimes where the ratio of beam density to plasma density is greater than half and results have been verified using simulation. Further in contrast to Rosenzweig's work, ifmore » the beam is allowed to evolve in a self-consistent manner, several interesting features are observed in simulation viz. splitting of the beam into beam-lets (for l{sub b} > λ{sub p}) and compression of the beam (for l{sub b} < λ{sub p}), l{sub b} and λ{sub p}, respectively, being the initial beam length and plasma wavelength.« less

Effect of nanosized Co{sub 0.5}Ni{sub 0.5}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} on the transport critical current density of Bi{sub 1.6}Pb{sub 0.4}Sr{sub 2}Ca{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub 10} superconductor

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

Hafiz, M.; Abd-Shukor, R.

2014-09-03

The effects of nano-sized Co{sub 0.5}Ni{sub 0.5}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} addition on the superconducting and transport properties of Bi{sub 1.6}Pb{sub 0.4}Sr{sub 2}Ca{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub 10} (Bi-2223) in bulk form has been investigated. Bi-2223 superconductor was fabricated using co-precipitation method and 0.01 – 0.05 wt% of Co{sub 0.5}Ni{sub 0.5}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles with average size of 20 nm were added into the samples. The critical temperature (T{sub c}) and critical current density (J{sub c}) of the samples were measured by using the four-point probe method, while the phase formation and microstructure of the samples were examined using x-ray diffraction and SEM respectively.more » It was found that J{sub c} of all samples added with Co{sub 0.5}Ni{sub 0.5}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} were higher than non-added sample, with x = 0.01 wt. % sample showing the highest J{sub c}. This study showed that small addition of nano-Co{sub 0.5}Ni{sub 0.5}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} can effectively enhance the transport critical current density in Bi-2223 superconductor.« less

High power heating of magnetic reconnection in merging tokamak experiments

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

Ono, Y.; Tanabe, H.; Gi, K.

2015-05-15

Significant ion/electron heating of magnetic reconnection up to 1.2 keV was documented in two spherical tokamak plasma merging experiment on MAST with the significantly large Reynolds number R∼10{sup 5}. Measured 1D/2D contours of ion and electron temperatures reveal clearly energy-conversion mechanisms of magnetic reconnection: huge outflow heating of ions in the downstream and localized heating of electrons at the X-point. Ions are accelerated up to the order of poloidal Alfven speed in the reconnection outflow region and are thermalized by fast shock-like density pileups formed in the downstreams, in agreement with recent solar satellite observations and PIC simulation results. The magneticmore » reconnection efficiently converts the reconnecting (poloidal) magnetic energy mostly into ion thermal energy through the outflow, causing the reconnection heating energy proportional to square of the reconnecting (poloidal) magnetic field B{sub rec}{sup 2}  ∼  B{sub p}{sup 2}. The guide toroidal field B{sub t} does not affect the bulk heating of ions and electrons, probably because the reconnection/outflow speeds are determined mostly by the external driven inflow by the help of another fast reconnection mechanism: intermittent sheet ejection. The localized electron heating at the X-point increases sharply with the guide toroidal field B{sub t}, probably because the toroidal field increases electron confinement and acceleration length along the X-line. 2D measurements of magnetic field and temperatures in the TS-3 tokamak merging experiment also reveal the detailed reconnection heating mechanisms mentioned above. The high-power heating of tokamak merging is useful not only for laboratory study of reconnection but also for economical startup and heating of tokamak plasmas. The MAST/TS-3 tokamak merging with B{sub p} > 0.4 T will enables us to heat the plasma to the alpha heating regime: T{sub i} > 5 keV without using any additional heating facility.« less

Quantifying the role of trees as Critical Zone architects employing crowbars, wedges and other tools of soil production

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marshall, J. A.; Anderson, R. S.; Dawson, T. E.; Dietrich, W. E.; Sklar, L. S.

2016-12-01

The Critical Zone (CZ) supports diverse functions such as water routing, net primary productivity, carbon storage, and mineral supplies for the geochemical reactor. The detailed architecture of the CZ, and the pace at which it evolves, are strongly influenced by the rate at which bedrock is converted to mobile material (the soil production rate). While trees serve as rebar-like soil stabilizers over short time scales, over longer time scales tree-driven forces can damage, disrupt and detach bedrock, and hence play a key role in soil production. Root growth and tree throw then can both release rock from the underlying bedrock and contribute to the downslope transport of the mobile material. Thus, the physical mechanisms controlling tree-driven soil production may set the pace and style of both the production and transport of soil. However, we know little about how or how often trees damage rock, create fractures, or expand existing fractures in competent bedrock or saprolite. Measurement of the relevant forces at the bedrock-root interface is difficult. Here we present preliminary data from a novel technique that allows us to document both root-growth and wind-induced forces at the rock-root interface at the Boulder Creek and Eel River Critical Zone Observatories. By combining force measurements with wind speed and wind-driven tree sway data, we quantify the magnitude and frequency of tree-driven soil-production mechanisms at two sites with differing climates and lithologies. In addition, we describe physical experiments in which we grow tree roots within pre-instrumented, manufactured fractures to measure the potential for root growth forces to induce crack tip propagation, to induce stress fatigue or to exceed the tensile or compressive strength of weak bedrock. Combined, these field and laboratory measurements provide mechanistic insight into the roles of trees as architects of the Critical Zone.

Tunable bandgap in hybrid perovskite CH{sub 3}NH{sub 3}Pb(Br{sub 3−y}X{sub y}) single crystals and photodetector applications

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

Wang, L.; Duan, R. F.; Huang, F.

We report the synthesis of CH{sub 3}NH{sub 3}Pb(Br{sub 3−y}X{sub y}) (X=Cl and I) single crystals via a stepwise temperature control approach. High-quality CH{sub 3}NH{sub 3}Pb(Br{sub 3−y}X{sub y}) crystals with a tunable bandgap from 1.92 eV to 2.53 eV have been prepared successfully in this way. And further experiments revealed the influence of halogen content and preparation temperature on the structural and optical properties of these crystals. It is observed that chlorine can lower the critical nucleation energy, which results in crystallizing at lower temperature with the chlorine content increasing, while the nucleation energy increases slowly with increasing iodine content. Moreover,more » in contrast to Frank–van der Merwe growth with low heating rate, high heating rate leads to a mass of small size single crystals and Stranski-Krastanov growth. The single crystals with tunable band gap and impressive characteristics enable us to fabricate high performance photodetectors for different wavelengths.« less

Ontology-Driven Provenance Management in eScience: An Application in Parasite Research

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sahoo, Satya S.; Weatherly, D. Brent; Mutharaju, Raghava; Anantharam, Pramod; Sheth, Amit; Tarleton, Rick L.

Provenance, from the French word "provenir", describes the lineage or history of a data entity. Provenance is critical information in scientific applications to verify experiment process, validate data quality and associate trust values with scientific results. Current industrial scale eScience projects require an end-to-end provenance management infrastructure. This infrastructure needs to be underpinned by formal semantics to enable analysis of large scale provenance information by software applications. Further, effective analysis of provenance information requires well-defined query mechanisms to support complex queries over large datasets. This paper introduces an ontology-driven provenance management infrastructure for biology experiment data, as part of the Semantic Problem Solving Environment (SPSE) for Trypanosoma cruzi (T.cruzi). This provenance infrastructure, called T.cruzi Provenance Management System (PMS), is underpinned by (a) a domain-specific provenance ontology called Parasite Experiment ontology, (b) specialized query operators for provenance analysis, and (c) a provenance query engine. The query engine uses a novel optimization technique based on materialized views called materialized provenance views (MPV) to scale with increasing data size and query complexity. This comprehensive ontology-driven provenance infrastructure not only allows effective tracking and management of ongoing experiments in the Tarleton Research Group at the Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases (CTEGD), but also enables researchers to retrieve the complete provenance information of scientific results for publication in literature.

Critical factors for optimising skill-grade-mix based on principles of Lean Management - a qualitative substudy

PubMed

Inauen, Alice; Rettke, Horst; Fridrich, Annemarie; Spirig, Rebecca; Bauer, Georg F

2017-01-01

Background: Due to scarce resources in health care, staff deployment has to meet the demands. To optimise skill-grade-mix, a Swiss University Hospital initiated a project based on principles of Lean Management. The project team accompanied each participating nursing department and scientifically evaluated the results of the project. Aim: The aim of this qualitative sub-study was to identify critical success factors of this project. Method: In four focus groups, participants discussed their experience of the project. Recruitment was performed from departments assessing the impact of the project retrospectively either positive or critical. In addition, the degree of direct involvement in the project served as a distinguishing criterion. Results: While the degree of direct involvement in the project was not decisive, conflicting opinions and experiences appeared in the groups with more positive or critical project evaluation. Transparency, context and attitude proved critical for the project’s success. Conclusions: Project managers should ensure transparency of the project’s progress and matching of the project structure with local conditions in order to support participants in their critical or positive attitude towards the project.

Where the champsaur commission's critics Have got it wrong

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

Santana, Joao; Resende, M.J.

2010-07-15

In order to be constructive, the debate on markets versus electrical system regulation must be based on experience in real operating markets and regulated environments. If dogmatism prevails, it can fall into the contradiction of economical rationality. Unlike the U.S., where evolution has been driven by practice, the European Union wants to impose uniformity - electricity regulation regardless of individual countries' special circumstances. (author)

Ion beam driven ion-acoustic waves in a plasma cylinder with negative ions

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

Sharma, Suresh C.; Gahlot, Ajay

2008-07-15

An ion beam propagating through a magnetized plasma cylinder containing K{sup +} positive ions, electrons, and SF{sub 6}{sup -} negative ions drives electrostatic ion-acoustic (IA) waves to instability via Cerenkov interaction. Two electrostatic IA wave modes in presence of K{sup +} and SF{sub 6}{sup -} ions are studied. The phase velocity of the sound wave in presence of positive and negative ions increase with the relative density of negative ions. The unstable wave frequencies and the growth rate of both the modes in presence of positive and negative ions increase with the relative density of negative ions. The growth ratemore » of both the unstable modes in presence of SF{sub 6}{sup -} and K{sup +} ions scales as the one-third power of the beam density. Numerical calculations of the phase velocity, growth rate, and mode frequencies have been carried out for the parameters of the experiment of Song et al. [Phys. Fluids B 3, 284 (1991)].« less

Surface Plasmon-Mediated Nanoscale Localization of Laser-Driven sub-Terahertz Spin Dynamics in Magnetic Dielectrics.

PubMed

Chekhov, Alexander L; Stognij, Alexander I; Satoh, Takuya; Murzina, Tatiana V; Razdolski, Ilya; Stupakiewicz, Andrzej

2018-05-09

We report spatial localization of the effective magnetic field generated via the inverse Faraday effect employing surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) at Au/garnet interface. Analyzing both numerically and analytically the electric field of the SPPs at this interface, we corroborate our study with a proof-of-concept experiment showing efficient SPP-driven excitation of coherent spin precession with 0.41 THz frequency. We argue that the subdiffractional confinement of the SPP electric field enables strong spatial localization of the SPP-mediated excitation of spin dynamics. We demonstrate two orders of magnitude enhancement of the excitation efficiency at the surface plasmon resonance within a 100 nm layer of a dielectric garnet. Our findings broaden the horizons of ultrafast spin-plasmonics and open pathways toward nonthermal opto-magnetic recording on the nanoscale.

TIDALLY DRIVEN ROCHE-LOBE OVERFLOW OF HOT JUPITERS WITH MESA

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

Valsecchi, Francesca; Rasio, Frederic A.; Rappaport, Saul

2015-11-10

Many exoplanets have now been detected in orbits with ultra-short periods very close to the Roche limit. Building upon our previous work, we study the possibility that mass loss through Roche lobe overflow (RLO) may affect the evolution of these planets, and could possibly transform a hot Jupiter into a lower-mass planet (hot Neptune or super-Earth). We focus here on systems in which the mass loss occurs slowly (“stable mass transfer” in the language of binary star evolution) and we compute their evolution in detail with the binary evolution code Modules for Experiments in Stellar Astrophysics. We include the effectsmore » of tides, RLO, irradiation, and photo-evaporation (PE) of the planet, as well as the stellar wind and magnetic braking. Our calculations all start with a hot Jupiter close to its Roche limit, in orbit around a Sun-like star. The initial orbital decay and onset of RLO are driven by tidal dissipation in the star. We confirm that such a system can indeed evolve to produce lower-mass planets in orbits of a few days. The RLO phase eventually ends and, depending on the details of the mass transfer and on the planetary core mass, the orbital period can remain around a few days for several Gyr. The remnant planets have rocky cores and some amount of envelope material, which is slowly removed via PE at a nearly constant orbital period; these have properties resembling many of the observed super-Earths and sub-Neptunes. For these remnant planets, we also predict an anti-correlation between mass and orbital period; very low-mass planets (M{sub pl} ≲ 5 M{sub ⊕}) in ultra-short periods (P{sub orb} < 1 day) cannot be produced through this type of evolution.« less

Fuel cell system

DOEpatents

Early, Jack; Kaufman, Arthur; Stawsky, Alfred

1982-01-01

A fuel cell system is comprised of a fuel cell module including sub-stacks of series-connected fuel cells, the sub-stacks being held together in a stacked arrangement with cold plates of a cooling means located between the sub-stacks to function as electrical terminals. The anode and cathode terminals of the sub-stacks are connected in parallel by means of the coolant manifolds which electrically connect selected cold plates. The system may comprise a plurality of the fuel cell modules connected in series. The sub-stacks are designed to provide a voltage output equivalent to the desired voltage demand of a low voltage, high current DC load such as an electrolytic cell to be driven by the fuel cell system. This arrangement in conjunction with switching means can be used to drive a DC electrical load with a total voltage output selected to match that of the load being driven. This arrangement eliminates the need for expensive voltage regulation equipment.

An Optimization-Driven Analysis Pipeline to Uncover Biomarkers and Signaling Paths: Cervix Cancer.

PubMed

Lorenzo, Enery; Camacho-Caceres, Katia; Ropelewski, Alexander J; Rosas, Juan; Ortiz-Mojer, Michael; Perez-Marty, Lynn; Irizarry, Juan; Gonzalez, Valerie; Rodríguez, Jesús A; Cabrera-Rios, Mauricio; Isaza, Clara

2015-06-01

Establishing how a series of potentially important genes might relate to each other is relevant to understand the origin and evolution of illnesses, such as cancer. High-throughput biological experiments have played a critical role in providing information in this regard. A special challenge, however, is that of trying to conciliate information from separate microarray experiments to build a potential genetic signaling path. This work proposes a two-step analysis pipeline, based on optimization, to approach meta-analysis aiming to build a proxy for a genetic signaling path.

Optimization of Capsule Symmetry in Z-Pinch Driven Hohlraums

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vesey, R. A.; Cuneo, M.; Hanson, D.; Porter, J.; Mehlhorn, T.; Ruggles, L.; Simpson, W.; Vargas, M.; Hammer, J.; Landen, O.

1999-11-01

The uniformity of the radiation flux incident on the capsule is a critical issue for indirect drive fusion using the z-pinch driven hohlraum high-yield concept(J.H. Hammer et al., Phys. Plas. 6), 2129 (1999).. Experiments on the Z accelerator at Sandia have demonstrated the ability to diagnose the uniformity of the flux striking a foam ball (surrogate capsule)(P.A. Amendt et al., Phys. Plas. 4), 1862 (1997); S.G. Glendinning et al. Rev. Sci. Instrum. 70, 536 (1999).. These single-sided drive experiments have been modeled using radiosity and radiation-hydrodynamics codes, yielding agreement with the measured ablation rate vs. angle on the foam ball. Flux uniformity at the 1-2% level needed for high-convergence capsule implosions requires a 2-sided drive (top and bottom z-pinch) configuration. Constrained optimization methods have identified hohlraum geometries with improved symmetry.

Non-perturbative measurement of cross-field thermal diffusivity reduction at the O-point of 2/1 neoclassical tearing mode islands in the DIII-D tokamak

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

Bardóczi, L.; Rhodes, T. L.; Carter, T. A.

2016-05-15

Neoclassical tearing modes (NTMs) often lead to the decrease of plasma performance and can lead to disruptions, which makes them a major impediment in the development of operating scenarios in present toroidal fusion devices. Recent gyrokinetic simulations predict a decrease of plasma turbulence and cross-field transport at the O-point of the islands, which in turn affects the NTM dynamics. In this paper, a heat transport model of magnetic islands employing spatially non-uniform cross-field thermal diffusivity (χ{sub ⊥}) is presented. This model is used to derive χ{sub ⊥} at the O-point from electron temperature data measured across 2/1 NTM islands inmore » DIII-D. It was found that χ{sub ⊥} at the O-point is 1 to 2 orders of magnitude smaller than the background plasma transport, in qualitative agreement with gyrokinetic predictions. As the anomalously large values of χ{sub ⊥} are often attributed to turbulence driven transport, the reduction of the O-point χ{sub ⊥} is consistent with turbulence reduction found in recent experiments. Finally, the implication of reduced χ{sub ⊥} at the O-point on NTM dynamics was investigated using the modified Rutherford equation that predicts a significant effect of reduced χ{sub ⊥} at the O-point on NTM saturation.« less

A one year long continuous record of seismic activity and surface motion at the tongue of Rhonegletscher (Valais, Switzerland)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dalban Canassy, Pierre; Röösli, Claudia; Walter, Fabian; Gabbi, Jeannette

2014-05-01

A critical gap in our current understanding of glaciers is how high sub-glacial water pressure controls the coupling of the glacier to its bed. Processes at the base of a glacier are inherently difficult to investigate due to their remoteness. Investigation of the sub-glacial environment with passive seismic methods is an innovative, rapidly growing interdisciplinary and promising endeavor. In combination with observations of surface motion and basal water pressure, this method is ideally suited to localize and quantify frictional and fracture processes which occur during periods of rapidly changing sub-glacial water pressure with consequent stress redistribution at the contact interface between ice and bed. Here we present the results of the first one-year-long glacier seismic monitoring performed on an Alpine glacier to our knowledge. Together with records of surface motion and hydrological measurements, we examine whether seasonal changes can be captured by seismic recording. Experiments were carried out from June 2012 to July 2013 on Rhonegletscher (Valais, Switzerland), by means of 3 three-components seismometers settled close to the tongue in 2 meters boreholes. An additional array of eleven sensors installed at the ice surface was also maintained during September 2012, in order to achieve more accurate icequakes locations. A high seismic emission is observed on Rhonegletscher, with icequakes located close to the surface or in the vicinity of the bedrock. The temporal distribution of seismic activity is shown to nicely reflect the seasonal evolution of the glacier hydrology, with a dramatic seismic release in early spring. During summer, released seismic activity is generally driven by diurnal ice/snow melting cycle. In winter, snow-cover conditions are associated with a reduced seismic release, with nevertheless some unexpected activity possibly related to snow-pack metamorphism. Based on icequake locations derived from data recorded in September, we discuss seasonal changes of the icequakes hypocenters distribution and possible source mechanisms are proposed.

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

None

On behalf of the Department of Energy's Office of FreedomCAR and Vehicle Technologies, we are pleased to introduce the Fiscal Year (FY) 2004 Annual Progress Report for the Advanced Combustion Engine R&D Sub-Program. The mission of the FreedomCAR and Vehicle Technologies Program is to develop more energy efficient and environmentally friendly highway transportation technologies that enable Americans to use less petroleum for their vehicles. The Advanced Combustion Engine R&D Sub-Program supports this mission by removing the critical technical barriers to commercialization of advanced internal combustion engines for light-, medium-, and heavy-duty highway vehicles that meet future Federal and state emissionsmore » regulations. The primary objective of the Advanced Combustion Engine R&D Sub-Program is to improve the brake thermal efficiency of internal combustion engines from 30 to 45 percent for light-duty applications by 2010; and 40 to 55 percent for heavy-duty applications by 2012; while meeting cost, durability, and emissions constraints. R&D activities include work on combustion technologies that increase efficiency and minimize in-cylinder formation of emissions, as well as aftertreatment technologies that further reduce exhaust emissions. Work is also being conducted on ways to reduce parasitic and heat transfer losses through the development and application of thermoelectrics and turbochargers that include electricity generating capability, and conversion of mechanically driven engine components to be driven via electric motors. This introduction serves to outline the nature, current progress, and future directions of the Advanced Combustion Engine R&D Sub-Program. The research activities of this Sub-Program are planned in conjunction with the FreedomCAR Partnership and the 21st Century Truck Partnership and are carried out in collaboration with industry, national laboratories, and universities. Because of the importance of clean fuels in achieving low emissions, R&D activities are closely coordinated with the relevant activities of the Fuel Technologies Sub-Program, also within the Office of FreedomCAR and Vehicle Technologies. Research is also being undertaken on hydrogen-fueled internal combustion engines to provide an interim hydrogen-based powertrain technology that promotes the longer-range FreedomCAR Partnership goal of transitioning to a hydrogen-fueled transportation system. Hydrogen engine technologies being developed have the potential to provide diesel-like engine efficiencies with near-zero emissions.« less

Coherent generation of the terrestrial kilometric radiation by nonlinear beatings between electrostatic waves

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Roux, A.; Pellat, R.

1978-01-01

The propagation of electrostatic plasma waves in an inhomogeneous and magnetized plasma was studied. These waves, which are driven unstable by auroral beams of electrons, are shown to suffer a further geometrical amplification while they propagate towards resonances. Simultaneously, their group velocities tend to be aligned with the geomagnetic field. It is shown that the electrostatic energy tends to accumulate at, or near omega sub LH and omega sub UH, the local lower and upper hybrid frequencies. Due to this process, large amplitude electrostatic waves with very narrow spectra are observed near these frequencies at any place along the auroral field lines where intense beam driven instability takes place. These intense quasi-monochromatic electrostatic waves are shown to give rise to an intense electromagnetic radiation. Depending upon the ratio omega sub pe/omega sub ce between the electron plasma frequency and the electron gyro-frequency the electromagnetic wave can be radiated in the ordinary mode (at omega sub UH), or in the extraordinary (at 2 omega sub UH). As the ratio omega sub pe/omega sub ce tends to be rather small, it is shown that the most intense radiation should be boserved at 2 omega sub UH in the extraordinary mode.

Hierarchical brain mapping via a generalized Dirichlet solution for mapping brain manifolds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Joshi, Sarang C.; Miller, Michael I.; Christensen, Gary E.; Banerjee, Ayan; Coogan, Tom; Grenander, Ulf

1995-08-01

In this paper we present a coarse-to-fine approach for the transformation of digital anatomical textbooks from the ideal to the individual that unifies the work on landmark deformations and volume based transformation. The Hierarchical approach is linked to the Biological problem itself, coming out of the various kinds of information which is provided by the anatomists. This information is in the form of points, lines, surfaces and sub-volumes corresponding to 0, 1, 2, and 3 dimensional sub-manifolds respectively. The algorithm is driven by these sub- manifolds. We follow the approach that the highest dimensional transformation is a result from the solution of a sequence of lower dimensional problems driven by successive refinements or partitions of the images into various Biologically meaningful sub-structures.

Attosecond nanoscale near-field sampling

PubMed Central

Förg, B.; Schötz, J.; Süßmann, F.; Förster, M.; Krüger, M.; Ahn, B.; Okell, W. A.; Wintersperger, K.; Zherebtsov, S.; Guggenmos, A.; Pervak, V.; Kessel, A.; Trushin, S. A.; Azzeer, A. M.; Stockman, M. I.; Kim, D.; Krausz, F.; Hommelhoff, P.; Kling, M. F.

2016-01-01

The promise of ultrafast light-field-driven electronic nanocircuits has stimulated the development of the new research field of attosecond nanophysics. An essential prerequisite for advancing this new area is the ability to characterize optical near fields from light interaction with nanostructures, with sub-cycle resolution. Here we experimentally demonstrate attosecond near-field retrieval for a tapered gold nanowire. By comparison of the results to those obtained from noble gas experiments and trajectory simulations, the spectral response of the nanotaper near field arising from laser excitation can be extracted. PMID:27241851

Nonlinear Dynamics and Nucleation Kinetics in Near-Critical Liquids

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Patashinski, Alexander Z.; Ratner, Mark A.; Pines, Vladimir

1996-01-01

The objective of our study is to model the nonlinear behavior of a near-critical liquid following a rapid change of the temperature and/or other thermodynamic parameters (pressure, external electric or gravitational field). The thermodynamic critical point is manifested by large, strongly correlated fluctuations of the order parameter (particle density in liquid-gas systems, concentration in binary solutions) in the critical range of scales. The largest critical length scale is the correlation radius r(sub c). According to the scaling theory, r(sub c) increases as r(sub c) = r(sub 0)epsilon(exp -alpha) when the nondimensional distance epsilon = (T - T(sub c))/T(sub c) to the critical point decreases. The normal gravity alters the nature of correlated long-range fluctuations when one reaches epsilon approximately equal to 10(exp -5), and correspondingly the relaxation time, tau(r(sub c)), is approximately equal to 10(exp -3) seconds; this time is short when compared to the typical experimental time. Close to the critical point, a rapid, relatively small temperature change may perturb the thermodynamic equilibrium on many scales. The critical fluctuations have a hierarchical structure, and the relaxation involves many length and time scales. Above the critical point, in the one-phase region, we consider the relaxation of the liquid following a sudden temperature change that simultaneously violates the equilibrium on many scales. Below T(sub c), a non-equilibrium state may include a distribution of small scale phase droplets; we consider the relaxation of such a droplet following a temperature change that has made the phase of the matrix stable.

Evaluating laser-driven Bremsstrahlung radiation sources for imaging and analysis of nuclear waste packages.

PubMed

Jones, Christopher P; Brenner, Ceri M; Stitt, Camilla A; Armstrong, Chris; Rusby, Dean R; Mirfayzi, Seyed R; Wilson, Lucy A; Alejo, Aarón; Ahmed, Hamad; Allott, Ric; Butler, Nicholas M H; Clarke, Robert J; Haddock, David; Hernandez-Gomez, Cristina; Higginson, Adam; Murphy, Christopher; Notley, Margaret; Paraskevoulakos, Charilaos; Jowsey, John; McKenna, Paul; Neely, David; Kar, Satya; Scott, Thomas B

2016-11-15

A small scale sample nuclear waste package, consisting of a 28mm diameter uranium penny encased in grout, was imaged by absorption contrast radiography using a single pulse exposure from an X-ray source driven by a high-power laser. The Vulcan laser was used to deliver a focused pulse of photons to a tantalum foil, in order to generate a bright burst of highly penetrating X-rays (with energy >500keV), with a source size of <0.5mm. BAS-TR and BAS-SR image plates were used for image capture, alongside a newly developed Thalium doped Caesium Iodide scintillator-based detector coupled to CCD chips. The uranium penny was clearly resolved to sub-mm accuracy over a 30cm(2) scan area from a single shot acquisition. In addition, neutron generation was demonstrated in situ with the X-ray beam, with a single shot, thus demonstrating the potential for multi-modal criticality testing of waste materials. This feasibility study successfully demonstrated non-destructive radiography of encapsulated, high density, nuclear material. With recent developments of high-power laser systems, to 10Hz operation, a laser-driven multi-modal beamline for waste monitoring applications is envisioned. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Gas breakdown driven by L band short-pulse high-power microwave

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

Yang Yiming; Yuan Chengwei; Qian Baoliang

2012-12-15

High power microwave (HPM) driven gas breakdown is a major factor in limiting the radiation and transmission of HPM. A method that HPM driven gas breakdown could be obtained by changing the aperture of horn antenna is studied in this paper. Changing the effective aperture of horn antenna can adjust the electric field in near field zone, leading to gas breakdown. With this method, measurements of air and SF{sub 6} breakdowns are carried out on a magnetically insulated transmission-line oscillators, which is capable of generating HPM with pulse duration of 30 ns, and frequency of 1.74 GHz. The typical breakdownmore » waveforms of air and SF{sub 6} are presented. Besides, the breakdown field strengths of the two gases are derived at different pressures. It is found that the effects of air and SF{sub 6} breakdown on the transmission of HPM are different: air breakdown mainly shortens the pulse width of HPM while SF{sub 6} breakdown mainly reduces the peak output power of HPM. The electric field threshold of SF{sub 6} is about 2.4 times larger than that of air. These differences suggest that gas properties have a great effect on the transmission characteristic of HPM in gases.« less

Strong-field and attosecond physics in solids

DOE PAGES

Ghimire, Shambhu; Ndabashimiye, Georges; DiChiara, Anthony D.; ...

2014-10-08

We review the status of strong-field and attosecond processes in bulk transparent solids near the Keldysh tunneling limit. For high enough fields and low-frequency excitations, the optical and electronic properties of dielectrics can be transiently and reversibly modified within the applied pulse. In Ghimire et al (2011 Phys. Rev. Lett. 107 167407) non-parabolic band effects were seen in photon-assisted tunneling experiments in ZnO crystals in a strong mid-infrared field. Using the same ZnO crystals, Ghimire et al (2011 Nat. Phys. 7 138–41) reported the first observation of non-pertubative high harmonics, extending well above the bandgap into the vacuum ultraviolet. Recent experiments by Schubert et al (2014 Nat. Photonics 8 119–23) showed a carrier envelope phase dependence in the harmonic spectrum in strong-field 30 THz driven GaSe crystals which is the most direct evidence yet of the role of sub-cycle electron dynamics in solid-state harmonic generation. The harmonic generation mechanism is different from the gas phase owing to the high density and periodicity of the crystal. For example, this results in a linear dependence of the high-energy cutoff with the applied field in contrast to the quadratic dependence in the gas phase. Sub-100 attosecond pulses could become possible if the harmonic spectrum can be extended into the extreme ultraviolet (XUV). Here we report harmonics generated in bulk MgO crystals, extending tomore » $$\\sim 26$$ eV when driven by ~35 fs, 800 nm pulses focused to a ~1 VÅ$$^{-1}$$ peak field. The fundamental strong-field and attosecond response also leads to Wannier–Stark localization and reversible semimetallization as seen in the sub-optical cycle behavior of XUV absorption and photocurrent experiments on fused silica by Schiffrin et al (2013 Nature 493 70–4) and Schultze et al (2013 Nature 493 75–8). These studies are advancing our understanding of fundamental strong-field and attosecond physics in solids with potential applications for compact coherent short-wavelength sources and ultra-high speed optoelectronics.« less

Modeling and analysis of sub-surface leakage current in nano-MOSFET under cutoff regime

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Swami, Yashu; Rai, Sanjeev

2017-02-01

The high leakage current in nano-meter regimes is becoming a significant portion of power dissipation in nano-MOSFET circuits as threshold voltage, channel length, and gate oxide thickness are scaled down to nano-meter range. Precise leakage current valuation and meticulous modeling of the same at nano-meter technology scale is an increasingly a critical work in designing the low power nano-MOSFET circuits. We present a specific compact model for sub-threshold regime leakage current in bulk driven nano-MOSFETs. The proposed logical model is instigated and executed into the latest updated PTM bulk nano-MOSFET model and is found to be in decent accord with technology-CAD simulation data. This paper also reviews various transistor intrinsic leakage mechanisms for nano-MOSFET exclusively in weak inversion, like drain-induced barricade lowering (DIBL), gate-induced drain leakage (GIDL), gate oxide tunneling (GOT) leakage etc. The root cause of the sub-surface leakage current is mainly due to the nano-scale short channel length causing source-drain coupling even in sub-threshold domain. Consequences leading to carriers triumphing the barricade between the source and drain. The enhanced model effectively considers the following parameter dependence in the account for better-quality value-added results like drain-to-source bias (VDS), gate-to-source bias (VGS), channel length (LG), source/drain junction depth (Xj), bulk doping concentration (NBULK), and operating temperature (Top).

Near Mbar-Level Dynamic Loading of Materials by Direct Laser-Irradiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tierney, T. E.; Swift, D. C.; Gammel, J. T.; Luo, S.; Johnson, R. P.

2003-12-01

We are developing techniques to perform direct-laser-illumination-driven, dynamic materials experiments at up to Mbar pressures with use of the Trident Laser Laboratory at Los Alamos. By temporally controlling the laser-irradiance, we are able to shape our loading for studies of fast-rise shocks, precursors, or isentropic compression. Laser-driven shock experiments are advantageous when considering the efficiency (fast turnaround), relative ease of sample recovery, taylorable dynamic loading, and in-situ structure diagnostics. Frequently, these experiments last 1-5 nanoseconds, and thus, permit investigation of rate-dependent processes and high strain rate environments. Laser-driven dynamic experiments are an important complement to traditional dynamic (e.g., light-gas gun) and static (e.g., diamond-anvil cell) experiments with certain advantages in studying equation of state, phase transitions and mechanical-chemical properties of Earth and planetary materials. Understanding high-pressure behavior in this regime is critical to phase boundaries for planetary interiors and dynamic properties of impact processes. Although we have studied silicates, oxides, metals, alloys and organic materials, this paper will focus on shocked and isentropically-compressed results obtained for iron in the range of 10-70 GPa (0.1-0.7 Mbar). Free surface velocities are measured using a Velocity Interferometer System for Any Reflector (VISAR). Nanosecond-scale laser experiments were interpreted with careful attention to exaggerated elastic-plastic effects and using accurate new equations of state for the phases of iron. This poster will present our technique, experimental results, and interpretation. *Work performed under the auspices of the US DOE under contract No. W-7405-ENG-36.

Lightwave-driven quasiparticle collisions on a subcycle timescale

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Langer, F.; Hohenleutner, M.; Schmid, C. P.; Poellmann, C.; Nagler, P.; Korn, T.; Schüller, C.; Sherwin, M. S.; Huttner, U.; Steiner, J. T.; Koch, S. W.; Kira, M.; Huber, R.

2016-05-01

Ever since Ernest Rutherford scattered α-particles from gold foils, collision experiments have revealed insights into atoms, nuclei and elementary particles. In solids, many-body correlations lead to characteristic resonances—called quasiparticles—such as excitons, dropletons, polarons and Cooper pairs. The structure and dynamics of quasiparticles are important because they define macroscopic phenomena such as Mott insulating states, spontaneous spin- and charge-order, and high-temperature superconductivity. However, the extremely short lifetimes of these entities make practical implementations of a suitable collider challenging. Here we exploit lightwave-driven charge transport, the foundation of attosecond science, to explore ultrafast quasiparticle collisions directly in the time domain: a femtosecond optical pulse creates excitonic electron-hole pairs in the layered dichalcogenide tungsten diselenide while a strong terahertz field accelerates and collides the electrons with the holes. The underlying dynamics of the wave packets, including collision, pair annihilation, quantum interference and dephasing, are detected as light emission in high-order spectral sidebands of the optical excitation. A full quantum theory explains our observations microscopically. This approach enables collision experiments with various complex quasiparticles and suggests a promising new way of generating sub-femtosecond pulses.

Lightwave-driven quasiparticle collisions on a subcycle timescale.

PubMed

Langer, F; Hohenleutner, M; Schmid, C P; Poellmann, C; Nagler, P; Korn, T; Schüller, C; Sherwin, M S; Huttner, U; Steiner, J T; Koch, S W; Kira, M; Huber, R

2016-05-12

Ever since Ernest Rutherford scattered α-particles from gold foils, collision experiments have revealed insights into atoms, nuclei and elementary particles. In solids, many-body correlations lead to characteristic resonances--called quasiparticles--such as excitons, dropletons, polarons and Cooper pairs. The structure and dynamics of quasiparticles are important because they define macroscopic phenomena such as Mott insulating states, spontaneous spin- and charge-order, and high-temperature superconductivity. However, the extremely short lifetimes of these entities make practical implementations of a suitable collider challenging. Here we exploit lightwave-driven charge transport, the foundation of attosecond science, to explore ultrafast quasiparticle collisions directly in the time domain: a femtosecond optical pulse creates excitonic electron-hole pairs in the layered dichalcogenide tungsten diselenide while a strong terahertz field accelerates and collides the electrons with the holes. The underlying dynamics of the wave packets, including collision, pair annihilation, quantum interference and dephasing, are detected as light emission in high-order spectral sidebands of the optical excitation. A full quantum theory explains our observations microscopically. This approach enables collision experiments with various complex quasiparticles and suggests a promising new way of generating sub-femtosecond pulses.

Unconventional and conventional quantum criticalities in CeRh0.58Ir0.42In5

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luo, Yongkang; Lu, Xin; Dioguardi, Aadm P.; Rosa, Priscila F. S.; Bauer, Eric D.; Si, Qimiao; Thompson, Joe D.

2018-03-01

An appropriate description of the state of matter that appears as a second order phase transition is tuned toward zero temperature, viz. quantum-critical point (QCP), poses fundamental and still not fully answered questions. Experiments are needed both to test basic conclusions and to guide further refinement of theoretical models. Here, charge and entropy transport properties as well as AC specific heat of the heavy-fermion compound CeRh0.58Ir0.42In5, measured as a function of pressure, reveal two qualitatively different QCPs in a single material driven by a single non-symmetry-breaking tuning parameter. A discontinuous sign-change jump in thermopower suggests an unconventional QCP at pc1 accompanied by an abrupt Fermi-surface reconstruction that is followed by a conventional spin-density-wave critical point at pc2 across which the Fermi surface evolves smoothly to a heavy Fermi-liquid state. These experiments are consistent with some theoretical predictions, including the sequence of critical points and the temperature dependence of the thermopower in their vicinity.

Community understanding of Respondent-Driven Sampling in a medical research setting in Uganda: importance for the use of RDS for public health research.

PubMed

McCreesh, Nicky; Tarsh, Matilda Nadagire; Seeley, Janet; Katongole, Joseph; White, Richard G

2013-01-01

Respondent-driven sampling (RDS) is a widely-used variant of snowball sampling. Respondents are selected not from a sampling frame, but from a social network of existing members of the sample. Incentives are provided for participation and for the recruitment of others. Ethical and methodological criticisms have been raised about RDS. Our purpose was to evaluate whether these criticisms were justified. In this study RDS was used to recruit male household heads in rural Uganda. We investigated community members' understanding and experience of the method, and explored how these may have affected the quality of the RDS survey data. Our findings suggest that because participants recruit participants, the use of RDS in medical research may result in increased difficulties in gaining informed consent, and data collected using RDS may be particularly susceptible to bias due to differences in the understanding of key concepts between researchers and members of the community.

Preparation, characterization and photocatalytic activity of visible-light-driven plasmonic Ag/AgBr/ZnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanocomposites

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

Li, Xiaojuan, E-mail: lixiaojuan@fzu.edu.cn; Tang, Duanlian; Tang, Fan

2014-08-15

Highlights: • A plasmonic Ag/AgBr/ZnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} photocatalyst has been successfully synthesized. • Ag/AgBr/ZnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanocomposites exhibit high visible light photocatalytic activity. • Ag/AgBr/ZnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} photocatalyst is stable and magnetically separable. - Abstract: A visible-light-driven plasmonic Ag/AgBr/ZnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanocomposite has been successfully synthesized via a deposition–precipitation and photoreduction through a novel one-pot process. X-ray diffraction spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy were employed to investigate the crystal structure, chemical composition, morphology, and optical properties of the as-prepared nanocomposites. The photocatalytic activities of the nanocomposites were evaluated by photodegradationmore » of Rhodamine B (RhB) and phenol under visible light. The results demonstrated that the obtained Ag/AgBr/ZnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanocomposites exhibited higher photocatalytic activity as compared to pure ZnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4}. In addition, the sample photoreduced for 20 min and calcined at 500 °C achieved the highest photocatalytic activity. Furthermore, the Ag/AgBr/ZnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanocomposite has high stability under visible light irradiation and could be conveniently separated by using an external magnetic field.« less

Terahertz-driven linear electron acceleration

PubMed Central

Nanni, Emilio A.; Huang, Wenqian R.; Hong, Kyung-Han; Ravi, Koustuban; Fallahi, Arya; Moriena, Gustavo; Dwayne Miller, R. J.; Kärtner, Franz X.

2015-01-01

The cost, size and availability of electron accelerators are dominated by the achievable accelerating gradient. Conventional high-brightness radio-frequency accelerating structures operate with 30–50 MeV m−1 gradients. Electron accelerators driven with optical or infrared sources have demonstrated accelerating gradients orders of magnitude above that achievable with conventional radio-frequency structures. However, laser-driven wakefield accelerators require intense femtosecond sources and direct laser-driven accelerators suffer from low bunch charge, sub-micron tolerances and sub-femtosecond timing requirements due to the short wavelength of operation. Here we demonstrate linear acceleration of electrons with keV energy gain using optically generated terahertz pulses. Terahertz-driven accelerating structures enable high-gradient electron/proton accelerators with simple accelerating structures, high repetition rates and significant charge per bunch. These ultra-compact terahertz accelerators with extremely short electron bunches hold great potential to have a transformative impact for free electron lasers, linear colliders, ultrafast electron diffraction, X-ray science and medical therapy with X-rays and electron beams. PMID:26439410

Terahertz-driven linear electron acceleration

DOE PAGES

Nanni, Emilio A.; Huang, Wenqian R.; Hong, Kyung-Han; ...

2015-10-06

The cost, size and availability of electron accelerators are dominated by the achievable accelerating gradient. Conventional high-brightness radio-frequency accelerating structures operate with 30–50 MeVm -1 gradients. Electron accelerators driven with optical or infrared sources have demonstrated accelerating gradients orders of magnitude above that achievable with conventional radio-frequency structures. However, laser-driven wakefield accelerators require intense femtosecond sources and direct laser-driven accelerators suffer from low bunch charge, sub-micron tolerances and sub-femtosecond timing requirements due to the short wavelength of operation. Here we demonstrate linear acceleration of electrons with keV energy gain using optically generated terahertz pulses. Terahertz-driven accelerating structures enable high-gradient electron/protonmore » accelerators with simple accelerating structures, high repetition rates and significant charge per bunch. As a result, these ultra-compact terahertz accelerators with extremely short electron bunches hold great potential to have a transformative impact for free electron lasers, linear colliders, ultrafast electron diffraction, X-ray science and medical therapy with X-rays and electron beams.« less

Mode pumping experiments on biomolecules

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

Austin, R.H.; Erramilli, S.; Xie, A.

1995-12-31

We will explore several aspects of protein dynamics and energy transfer that can be explored by using the intense, picosecond, tunable mid-IR output of the FEL. In order of appearance they are: (1) Saturation recovery and inter-level coupling of the low temperature amide-I band in acetanilide. This is a continuation of earlier experiments to test soliton models in crystalline hydrogen bonded solids. In this experiment we utilize the sub-picosecond time resolution and low repetition rate of the Stanford SCLA FEL to do both T{sub 1} and T{sub 2} relaxation measurements at 1650 cm{sup -1}. (2) Probing the influence of collectivemore » dynamics in sensory rhodopsin. In this experiment we use the FIR output of the Stanford FIREFLY FEL to determine the lifetime of collective modes in the photo-active protein sensory rhodopsin, and begin experiments on the influence of collective modes on retinal reaction dynamics. (3) Probing the transition states of enzymes. This experiment, in the initial stages, attempts to use the intense IR output of the FEL to probe and influence the reaction path of a transition state analog for the protein nucleoside hydrolase. The transition state of the inosine substrate is believed to have critical modes softened by the protein so that bond-breaking paths show absorption at approximately 800 cm{sup -1}. A form of action spectrum using FEL excitation will be used to probe this state.« less

An alternative explanation of the change in T-dependence of the effective Debye-Waller factor at T{sub c} or T{sub B}

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

Ngai, K. L.; CNR-IPCF, Largo Bruno Pontecorvo 3, I-56127 Pisa; Habasaki, J.

The cusp-like temperature dependence of the Debye-Waller factor or non-ergodicity parameter f{sub Q}(T) at some temperature T{sub c} above T{sub g} found by experiments in several fragile glassformers has been considered as critical evidence for validity of the ideal Mode Coupling Theory (MCT). A comprehensive review of experimental data of f{sub Q}(T) and beyond brings out various problems of the MCT predictions. For example, the molten salt, 0.4Ca(NO{sub 3}){sub 2}-0.6KNO{sub 3} (CKN), was the first glassformer measured by neutron scattering to verify the cusp-like behavior of f{sub Q}(T) at T{sub c} predicted by ideal MCT. While the fits of themore » other scaling laws of MCT to viscosity, light scattering, and dielectric relaxation data all give T{sub c} in the range from 368 to 375 K, there is no evidence of cusp-like behavior of f{sub Q}(T) at T{sub c} from more accurate neutron scattering data obtained later on by Mezei and Russina [J. Phys.: Condens. Matter 11, A341 (1999)] at temperatures below 400 K. In several molecular glass-formers, experiments have found at temperatures below T{sub c} that [1−f{sub Q}(T)] is manifested as nearly constant loss (NCL) in the frequency dependent susceptibility. The NCL persists down to below T{sub g} and is not predicted by the ideal MCT. No clear evidence of the change of T-dependence of f{sub Q}(T) at any T{sub c} was found in intermediate and strong glassformers, although ideal MCT does not distinguish fragile and strong glassformers in predicting the critical behavior of f{sub Q}(T) a priori. Experiments found f{sub Q}(T) changes T-dependence not only at T{sub c} but also at the glass transition temperature T{sub g}. The changes of T-dependence of f{sub Q}(T) at T{sub c} and T{sub g} are accompanied by corresponding changes of dynamic variables and thermodynamic quantities at T{sub B} ≈ T{sub c} and at T{sub g}. The dynamic variables include the relaxation time τ{sub α}(T), the non-exponentiality parameter n(T), and the generalized fragility m(T) of the structural α-relaxation. The thermodynamic quantities are the free volume deduced from positron annihilation spectroscopy, and the configurational entropy obtained from adiabatic calorimetry measurements. These changes of dynamic variables and thermodynamic quantities in temperature dependence at T{sub B} ≈ T{sub c} occur concurrently with the change of f{sub Q}(T) and suggest the effects are related, and have to be explained altogether. Since this task cannot be carried out by the ideal MCT, we have provided a different interpretation of f{sub Q}(T) and an alternative explanation of the change in its T-dependence of f{sub Q}(T) at T{sub B} ≈ T{sub c} as well as the other dynamic variables. We show f{sub Q}(T) originates from the dissipation of the molecules while caged by the anharmonic intermolecular potential, and manifested as the NCL at lower temperatures. The cusp-like change of T-dependence of f{sub Q}(T) at T{sub c} originates from the corresponding change of free volume and configurational entropy at T{sub B} ≈ T{sub c}, which also explains the simultaneous changes of the T-dependencies of the other dynamic variables. The alternative explanation is able to resolve the conundrum in CKN because T{sub B} is ≥400 K, and hence the change of T-dependence of f{sub Q}(T) at T{sub c} ≈ T{sub B} was not observed in data taken at temperatures lower than 400 K by Mezei and Russina. The alternative explanation also can rationalize the difference between fragile and non-fragile glassformers in the strength of the observed changes of f{sub Q}(T) at T{sub c} and T{sub g} as well as the other dynamic quantities at T{sub B} ≈ T{sub c} and T{sub g}.« less

Establishing intensivist-driven ultrasound at the PICU bedside--it's about time*.

PubMed

Su, Erik; Pustavoitau, Aliaksei; Hirshberg, Elliotte L; Nishisaki, Akira; Conlon, Thomas; Kantor, David B; Weber, Mark D; Godshall, Aaron J; Burzynski, Jeffrey H; Thompson, Ann E

2014-09-01

To discuss pediatric intensivist-driven ultrasound and the exigent need for research and practice definitions pertaining to its implementation within pediatric critical care, specifically addressing issues in ultrasound-guided vascular access and intensivist-driven echocardiography. Intensivist-driven ultrasound improves procedure safety and reduces time to diagnosis in clinical ultrasound applications, as demonstrated primarily in adult patients. Translating these applications to the PICU requires thoughtful integration of the technology into practice and would best be informed by dedicated ultrasound research in critically ill children.

HIV care and treatment experiences among female sex workers living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review.

PubMed

Lancaster, Kathryn E; Cernigliaro, Dana; Zulliger, Rose; Fleming, Paul F

2016-12-01

Female sex workers (FSW) living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa have poor engagement to HIV care and treatment. Understanding the HIV care and treatment engagement experiences of FSW has important implications for interventions to enhance care and treatment outcomes. We conducted a systematic review to examine the HIV care experiences and determinants of linkage and retention in care, antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation, and ART adherence and viral suppression among FSW living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa. The databases PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, SCOPUS, CINAHL, Global Health, Psycinfo, Sociological Abstracts, and Popline were searched for variations of search terms related to sex work and HIV care and treatment among sub-Saharan African populations. Ten peer-reviewed articles published between January 2000 and August 2015 met inclusion criteria and were included in this review. Despite expanded ART access, FSW in sub-Saharan Africa have sub-optimal HIV care and treatment engagement outcomes. Stigma, discrimination, poor nutrition, food insecurity, and substance use were commonly reported and associated with poor linkage to care, retention in care, and ART initiation. Included studies suggest that interventions with FSW should focus on multilevel barriers to engagement in HIV care and treatment and explore the involvement of social support from intimate male partners. Our results emphasise several critical points of intervention for FSW living with HIV, which are urgently needed to enhance linkage to HIV care, retention in care, and treatment initiation, particularly where the HIV prevalence among FSW is greatest.

Tuner control system of Spoke012 SRF cavity for C-ADS injector I

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Na; Sun, Yi; Wang, Guang-Wei; Mi, Zheng-Hui; Lin, Hai-Ying; Wang, Qun-Yao; Liu, Rong; Ma, Xin-Peng

2016-09-01

A new tuner control system for spoke superconducting radio frequency (SRF) cavities has been developed and applied to cryomodule I of the C-ADS injector I at the Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences. We have successfully implemented the tuner controller based on Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) for the first time and achieved a cavity tuning phase error of ±0.7° (about ±4 Hz peak to peak) in the presence of electromechanical coupled resonance. This paper presents preliminary experimental results based on the PLC tuner controller under proton beam commissioning. Supported by Proton linac accelerator I of China Accelerator Driven sub-critical System (Y12C32W129)

An in-plane nano-mechanics approach to achieve reversible resonance control of photonic crystal nanocavities.

PubMed

Chew, Xiongyeu; Zhou, Guangya; Yu, Hongbin; Chau, Fook Siong; Deng, Jie; Loke, Yee Chong; Tang, Xiaosong

2010-10-11

Control of photonic crystal resonances in conjunction with large spectral shifting is critical in achieving reconfigurable photonic crystal devices. We propose a simple approach to achieve nano-mechanical control of photonic crystal resonances within a compact integrated on-chip approach. Three different tip designs utilizing an in-plane nano-mechanical tuning approach are shown to achieve reversible and low-loss resonance control on a one-dimensional photonic crystal nanocavity. The proposed nano-mechanical approach driven by a sub-micron micro-electromechanical system integrated on low loss suspended feeding nanowire waveguide, achieved relatively large resonance spectral shifts of up to 18 nm at a driving voltage of 25 V. Such designs may potentially be used as tunable optical filters or switches.

Transitions to Adulthood for Homeless Adolescents: Education and Public Policy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tierney, William G.; Gupton, Jarrett T.; Hallett, Ronald E.

2008-01-01

Education plays a critical role in how adolescents mature into adults. A vulnerable, and often forgotten, sub-population of the poor is homeless youth, for whom lack of a stable or adequate residence creates a unique set of educational barriers. The Center for Higher Education Policy Analysis (CHEPA) spent 18 months documenting the experiences of…

Assembling supramolecular networks by halogen bonding in coordination polymers driven by 5-bromonicotinic acid

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

Gu, Jin-Zhong, E-mail: gujzh@lzu.edu.cn; Wu, Jiang; Kirillov, Alexander M.

2014-05-01

A series of six coordination compounds ([Zn(5-Brnic){sub 2}]·1.5H{sub 2}O){sub n} (1), [Cd(5-Brnic){sub 2}]{sub n} (2), [Co(5-Brnic){sub 2}(H{sub 2}O){sub 2}]{sub n} (3), [Zn(5-Brnic){sub 2}(H{sub 2}biim)]{sub n} (4), ([Cd(5-Brnic){sub 2}(phen)]·H{sub 2}O){sub n} (5), and [Pb(5-Brnic){sub 2}(phen)] (6) have been generated by the hydrothermal method from the metal(II) nitrates, 5-bromonicotinic acid (5-BrnicH), and an optional ancillary 1,10-phenanthroline (phen) or 2,2′-biimidazole (H{sub 2}biim) ligand. All the products 1–6 have been characterized by IR spectroscopy, elemental, thermal, powder and single-crystal X-ray diffraction analyses. Their 5-bromonicotinate-driven structures vary from the 3D metal-organic framework with the seh-3,5-P21/c topology (in 2) and the 2D interdigitated layers with themore » sql topology (in 1 and 3), to the 1D chains (in 4 and 5) and the 0D discrete monomers (in 6). The 5-bromonicotinate moiety acts as a versatile building block and its tethered bromine atom plays a key role in reinforcing and extending the structures into diverse 3D supramolecular networks via the various halogen bonding Br⋯O, Br⋯Br, and Br⋯π interactions, as well as the N–H⋯O and C–H⋯O hydrogen bonds. The obtained results demonstrate a useful guideline toward engineering the supramolecular architectures in the coordination network assembly under the influence of various halogen bonding interactions. The luminescent (for 1, 2, 4, 5, and 6) and magnetic (for 3) properties have also been studied and discussed in detail. - Graphical abstract: Six coordination compounds driven by 5-bromonicotinic acid have been generated and structurally characterized, revealing diverse metal-organic networks that are further reinforced and extended via various halogen bonding interactions. - Highlights: • 5-Bromonicotinic acid is a versatile ligand for Zn, Cd, Co and Pb derivatives. • Careful selection of co-ligands and metals resulted in different network structures. • Halogen and hydrogen bonding interactions lead to various supramolecular networks. • Luminescent and magnetic properties were studied and discussed in detail.« less

Impact of intermediate and high energy nuclear data on the neutronic safety parameters of MYRRHA accelerator driven system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stankovskiy, Alexey; Çelik, Yurdunaz; Eynde, Gert Van den

2017-09-01

Perturbation of external neutron source can cause significant local power changes transformed into undesired safety-related events in an accelerator driven system. Therefore for the accurate design of MYRRHA sub-critical core it is important to evaluate the uncertainty of power responses caused by the uncertainties in nuclear reaction models describing the particle transport from primary proton energy down to the evaluated nuclear data table range. The calculations with a set of models resulted in quite low uncertainty on the local power caused by significant perturbation of primary neutron yield from proton interactions with lead and bismuth isotopes. The considered accidental event of prescribed proton beam shape loss causes drastic increase in local power but does not practically change the total core thermal power making this effect difficult to detect. In the same time the results demonstrate a correlation between perturbed local power responses in normal operation and misaligned beam conditions indicating that generation of covariance data for proton and neutron induced neutron multiplicities for lead and bismuth isotopes is needed to obtain reliable uncertainties for local power responses.

Simulation study of enhancing laser driven multi-keV line-radiation through application of external magnetic fields

DOE PAGES

Kemp, G. E.; Colvin, J. D.; Blue, B. E.; ...

2016-10-20

Here, we present a path forward for enhancing laser driven, multi-keV line-radiation from mid- to high-Z, sub-quarter-critical density, non-equilibrium plasmas through inhibited thermal transport in the presence of an externally generated magnetic field. Preliminary simulations with Kr and Ag suggest that as much as 50%–100% increases in peak electron temperatures are possible—without any changes in laser drive conditions—with magnetized interactions. The increase in temperature results in ~2–3× enhancements in laser-to-x-ray conversion efficiency for K-shell emission with simultaneous ≲4× reduction in L-shell emission using current field generation capabilities on the Omega laser and near-term capabilities on the National Ignition Facility laser.more » Increased plasma temperatures and enhanced K-shell emission are observed to come at the cost of degraded volumetric heating. Such enhancements in high-photon-energy x-ray sources could expand the existing laser platforms for increasingly penetrating x-ray radiography.« less

A Verification-Driven Approach to Traceability and Documentation for Auto-Generated Mathematical Software

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Denney, Ewen W.; Fischer, Bernd

2009-01-01

Model-based development and automated code generation are increasingly used for production code in safety-critical applications, but since code generators are typically not qualified, the generated code must still be fully tested, reviewed, and certified. This is particularly arduous for mathematical and control engineering software which requires reviewers to trace subtle details of textbook formulas and algorithms to the code, and to match requirements (e.g., physical units or coordinate frames) not represented explicitly in models or code. Both tasks are complicated by the often opaque nature of auto-generated code. We address these problems by developing a verification-driven approach to traceability and documentation. We apply the AUTOCERT verification system to identify and then verify mathematical concepts in the code, based on a mathematical domain theory, and then use these verified traceability links between concepts, code, and verification conditions to construct a natural language report that provides a high-level structured argument explaining why and how the code uses the assumptions and complies with the requirements. We have applied our approach to generate review documents for several sub-systems of NASA s Project Constellation.

Collapsing lattice animals and lattice trees in two dimensions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hsu, Hsiao-Ping; Grassberger, Peter

2005-06-01

We present high statistics simulations of weighted lattice bond animals and lattice trees on the square lattice, with fugacities for each non-bonded contact and for each bond between two neighbouring monomers. The simulations are performed using a newly developed sequential sampling method with resampling, very similar to the pruned-enriched Rosenbluth method (PERM) used for linear chain polymers. We determine with high precision the line of second-order transitions from an extended to a collapsed phase in the resulting two-dimensional phase diagram. This line includes critical bond percolation as a multicritical point, and we verify that this point divides the line into different universality classes. One of them corresponds to the collapse driven by contacts and includes the collapse of (weakly embeddable) trees. There is some evidence that the other is subdivided again into two parts with different universality classes. One of these (at the far side from collapsing trees) is bond driven and is represented by the Derrida-Herrmann model of animals having bonds only (no contacts). Between the critical percolation point and this bond-driven collapse seems to be an intermediate regime, whose other end point is a multicritical point P* where a transition line between two collapsed phases (one bond driven and the other contact driven) sparks off. This point P* seems to be attractive (in the renormalization group sense) from the side of the intermediate regime, so there are four universality classes on the transition line (collapsing trees, critical percolation, intermediate regime, and Derrida-Herrmann). We obtain very precise estimates for all critical exponents for collapsing trees. It is already harder to estimate the critical exponents for the intermediate regime. Finally, it is very difficult to obtain with our method good estimates of the critical parameters of the Derrida-Herrmann universality class. As regards the bond-driven to contact-driven transition in the collapsed phase, we have some evidence for its existence and rough location, but no precise estimates of critical exponents.

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

Ahnood, Arman, E-mail: arman.ahnood@unimelb.edu.au; Ganesan, Kumaravelu; Stacey, Alastair

Beyond conventional electrically-driven neuronal stimulation methods, there is a growing interest in optically-driven approaches. In recent years, nitrogen-doped ultrananocrystalline diamond (N-UNCD) has emerged as a strong material candidate for use in electrically-driven stimulation electrodes. This work investigates the electrochemical activity of N-UNCD in response to pulsed illumination, to assess its potential for use as an optically-driven stimulation electrode. Whilst N-UNCD in the as-grown state exhibits a weak photoresponse, the oxygen plasma treated film exhibits two orders of magnitude enhancement in its sub-bandgap open circuit photovoltage response. The enhancement is attributed to the formation of a dense network of oxygen-terminated diamondmore » nanocrystals at the N-UNCD surface. Electrically connected to the N-UNCD bulk via sub-surface graphitic grain boundaries, these diamond nanocrystals introduce a semiconducting barrier between the sub-surface graphitic semimetal and the electrolyte solution, leading to a photovoltage under irradiation with wavelengths of λ = 450 nm and shorter. Within the safe optical exposure limit of 2 mW mm{sup −2}, charge injection capacity of 0.01 mC cm{sup −2} is achieved using a 15 × 15 μm electrode, meeting the requirements for extracellular and intercellular stimulation. The nanoscale nature of processes presented here along with the diamond's biocompatibility and biostability open an avenue for the use of oxygen treated N-UNCD as optically driven stimulating electrodes.« less

Transient photoresponse of nitrogen-doped ultrananocrystalline diamond electrodes in saline solution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahnood, Arman; Simonov, Alexandr N.; Laird, Jamie S.; Maturana, Matias I.; Ganesan, Kumaravelu; Stacey, Alastair; Ibbotson, Michael R.; Spiccia, Leone; Prawer, Steven

2016-03-01

Beyond conventional electrically-driven neuronal stimulation methods, there is a growing interest in optically-driven approaches. In recent years, nitrogen-doped ultrananocrystalline diamond (N-UNCD) has emerged as a strong material candidate for use in electrically-driven stimulation electrodes. This work investigates the electrochemical activity of N-UNCD in response to pulsed illumination, to assess its potential for use as an optically-driven stimulation electrode. Whilst N-UNCD in the as-grown state exhibits a weak photoresponse, the oxygen plasma treated film exhibits two orders of magnitude enhancement in its sub-bandgap open circuit photovoltage response. The enhancement is attributed to the formation of a dense network of oxygen-terminated diamond nanocrystals at the N-UNCD surface. Electrically connected to the N-UNCD bulk via sub-surface graphitic grain boundaries, these diamond nanocrystals introduce a semiconducting barrier between the sub-surface graphitic semimetal and the electrolyte solution, leading to a photovoltage under irradiation with wavelengths of λ = 450 nm and shorter. Within the safe optical exposure limit of 2 mW mm-2, charge injection capacity of 0.01 mC cm-2 is achieved using a 15 × 15 μm electrode, meeting the requirements for extracellular and intercellular stimulation. The nanoscale nature of processes presented here along with the diamond's biocompatibility and biostability open an avenue for the use of oxygen treated N-UNCD as optically driven stimulating electrodes.

Research on ponderomotive driven Vlasov–Poisson system in electron acoustic wave parametric region

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

Xiao, C. Z.; Huang, T. W.; Liu, Z. J.

2014-03-15

Theoretical analysis and corresponding 1D Particle-in-Cell (PIC) simulations of ponderomotive driven Vlasov–Poisson system in electron acoustic wave (EAW) parametric region are demonstrated. Theoretical analysis identifies that under the resonant condition, a monochromatic EAW can be excited when the wave number of the drive ponderomotive force satisfies 0.26≲k{sub d}λ{sub D}≲0.53. If k{sub d}λ{sub D}≲0.26, nonlinear superposition of harmonic waves can be resonantly excited, called kinetic electrostatic electron nonlinear waves. Numerical simulations have demonstrated these wave excitation and evolution dynamics, in consistence with the theoretical predictions. The physical nature of these two waves is supposed to be interaction of harmonic waves, andmore » their similar phase space properties are also discussed.« less

The Madison plasma dynamo experiment: A facility for studying laboratory plasma astrophysics

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

Cooper, C. M.; Brookhart, M.; Collins, C.

2014-01-15

The Madison plasma dynamo experiment (MPDX) is a novel, versatile, basic plasma research device designed to investigate flow driven magnetohydrodynamic instabilities and other high-β phenomena with astrophysically relevant parameters. A 3 m diameter vacuum vessel is lined with 36 rings of alternately oriented 4000 G samarium cobalt magnets, which create an axisymmetric multicusp that contains ∼14 m{sup 3} of nearly magnetic field free plasma that is well confined and highly ionized (>50%). At present, 8 lanthanum hexaboride (LaB{sub 6}) cathodes and 10 molybdenum anodes are inserted into the vessel and biased up to 500 V, drawing 40 A each cathode, ionizing a low pressuremore » Ar or He fill gas and heating it. Up to 100 kW of electron cyclotron heating power is planned for additional electron heating. The LaB{sub 6} cathodes are positioned in the magnetized edge to drive toroidal rotation through J × B torques that propagate into the unmagnetized core plasma. Dynamo studies on MPDX require a high magnetic Reynolds number Rm > 1000, and an adjustable fluid Reynolds number 10 < Re < 1000, in the regime where the kinetic energy of the flow exceeds the magnetic energy (M{sub A}{sup 2}=(v/v{sub A}){sup 2}>1). Initial results from MPDX are presented along with a 0-dimensional power and particle balance model to predict the viscosity and resistivity to achieve dynamo action.« less

T2-weighted four dimensional magnetic resonance imaging with result-driven phase sorting

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

Liu, Yilin; Yin, Fang-Fang; Cai, Jing, E-mail: jing.cai@duke.edu

2015-08-15

Purpose: T2-weighted MRI provides excellent tumor-to-tissue contrast for target volume delineation in radiation therapy treatment planning. This study aims at developing a novel T2-weighted retrospective four dimensional magnetic resonance imaging (4D-MRI) phase sorting technique for imaging organ/tumor respiratory motion. Methods: A 2D fast T2-weighted half-Fourier acquisition single-shot turbo spin-echo MR sequence was used for image acquisition of 4D-MRI, with a frame rate of 2–3 frames/s. Respiratory motion was measured using an external breathing monitoring device. A phase sorting method was developed to sort the images by their corresponding respiratory phases. Besides, a result-driven strategy was applied to effectively utilize redundantmore » images in the case when multiple images were allocated to a bin. This strategy, selecting the image with minimal amplitude error, will generate the most representative 4D-MRI. Since we are using a different image acquisition mode for 4D imaging (the sequential image acquisition scheme) with the conventionally used cine or helical image acquisition scheme, the 4D dataset sufficient condition was not obviously and directly predictable. An important challenge of the proposed technique was to determine the number of repeated scans (N{sub R}) required to obtain sufficient phase information at each slice position. To tackle this challenge, the authors first conducted computer simulations using real-time position management respiratory signals of the 29 cancer patients under an IRB-approved retrospective study to derive the relationships between N{sub R} and the following factors: number of slices (N{sub S}), number of 4D-MRI respiratory bins (N{sub B}), and starting phase at image acquisition (P{sub 0}). To validate the authors’ technique, 4D-MRI acquisition and reconstruction were simulated on a 4D digital extended cardiac-torso (XCAT) human phantom using simulation derived parameters. Twelve healthy volunteers were involved in an IRB-approved study to investigate the feasibility of this technique. Results: 4D data acquisition completeness (C{sub p}) increases as NR increases in an inverse-exponential fashion (C{sub p} = 100 − 99 × exp(−0.18 × N{sub R}), when N{sub B} = 6, fitted using 29 patients’ data). The N{sub R} required for 4D-MRI reconstruction (defined as achieving 95% completeness, C{sub p} = 95%, N{sub R} = N{sub R,95}) is proportional to N{sub B} (N{sub R,95} ∼ 2.86 × N{sub B}, r = 1.0), but independent of N{sub S} and P{sub 0}. Simulated XCAT 4D-MRI showed a clear pattern of respiratory motion. Tumor motion trajectories measured on 4D-MRI were comparable to the average input signal, with a mean relative amplitude error of 2.7% ± 2.9%. Reconstructed 4D-MRI for healthy volunteers illustrated clear respiratory motion on three orthogonal planes, with minimal image artifacts. The artifacts were presumably caused by breathing irregularity and incompleteness of data acquisition (95% acquired only). The mean relative amplitude error between critical structure trajectory and average breathing curve for 12 healthy volunteers is 2.5 ± 0.3 mm in superior–inferior direction. Conclusions: A novel T2-weighted retrospective phase sorting 4D-MRI technique has been developed and successfully applied on digital phantom and healthy volunteers.« less

Sexual violence and sub-Saharan migrants in Morocco: a community-based participatory assessment using respondent driven sampling.

PubMed

Keygnaert, Ines; Dialmy, Abdessamad; Manço, Altay; Keygnaert, Jeroen; Vettenburg, Nicole; Roelens, Kristien; Temmerman, Marleen

2014-05-08

The European Union contracted Morocco to regulate migration from so-called “transit migrants” from Morocco to Europe via the European Neighbourhood Policy. Yet, international organisations signal that human, asylum and refugee rights are not upheld in Morocco and that many sub-Saharan migrants suffer from ill-health and violence. Hence, our study aimed at 1) investigating the nature of violence that sub-Saharan migrants experience around and in Morocco, 2) assessing which determinants they perceive as decisive and 3) formulating prevention recommendations. Applying Community-Based Participatory Research, we trained twelve sub-Saharan migrants as Community Researchers to conduct in-depth interviews with peers, using Respondent Driven Sampling. We used Nvivo 8 to analyse the data. We interpreted results with Community Researchers and the Community Advisory Board and commonly formulated prevention recommendations. Among the 154 (60 F-94 M) sub-Saharan migrants interviewed, 90% reported cases of multiple victimizations, 45% of which was sexual, predominantly gang rape. Seventy-nine respondents were personally victimized, 41 were forced to witness how relatives or co-migrants were victimized and 18 others knew of peer victimisation. Severe long lasting ill-health consequences were reported while sub-Saharan victims are not granted access to the official health care system. Perpetrators were mostly Moroccan or Algerian officials and sub-Saharan gang leaders who function as unofficial yet rigorous migration professionals at migration ‘hubs’. They seem to proceed in impunity. Respondents link risk factors mainly to their undocumented and unprotected status and suggest that migrant communities set-up awareness raising campaigns on risks while legal and policy changes enforcing human rights, legal protection and human treatment of migrants along with severe punishment of perpetrators are politically lobbied for. Sub-Saharan migrants are at high risk of sexual victimization and subsequent ill-health in and around Morocco. Comprehensive cross-border and multi-level prevention actions are urgently called for. Given the European Neighbourhood Policy, we deem it paramount that the European Union politically cares for these migrants’ lives and health, takes up its responsibility, drastically changes migration regulation into one that upholds human rights beyond survival and enforces all authorities involved to restore migrants’ lives worthy to be lived again.

Sexual violence and sub-Saharan migrants in Morocco: a community-based participatory assessment using respondent driven sampling

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background The European Union contracted Morocco to regulate migration from so-called “transit migrants” from Morocco to Europe via the European Neighbourhood Policy. Yet, international organisations signal that human, asylum and refugee rights are not upheld in Morocco and that many sub-Saharan migrants suffer from ill-health and violence. Hence, our study aimed at 1) investigating the nature of violence that sub-Saharan migrants experience around and in Morocco, 2) assessing which determinants they perceive as decisive and 3) formulating prevention recommendations. Methods Applying Community-Based Participatory Research, we trained twelve sub-Saharan migrants as Community Researchers to conduct in-depth interviews with peers, using Respondent Driven Sampling. We used Nvivo 8 to analyse the data. We interpreted results with Community Researchers and the Community Advisory Board and commonly formulated prevention recommendations. Results Among the 154 (60 F-94 M) sub-Saharan migrants interviewed, 90% reported cases of multiple victimizations, 45% of which was sexual, predominantly gang rape. Seventy-nine respondents were personally victimized, 41 were forced to witness how relatives or co-migrants were victimized and 18 others knew of peer victimisation. Severe long lasting ill-health consequences were reported while sub-Saharan victims are not granted access to the official health care system. Perpetrators were mostly Moroccan or Algerian officials and sub-Saharan gang leaders who function as unofficial yet rigorous migration professionals at migration ‘hubs’. They seem to proceed in impunity. Respondents link risk factors mainly to their undocumented and unprotected status and suggest that migrant communities set-up awareness raising campaigns on risks while legal and policy changes enforcing human rights, legal protection and human treatment of migrants along with severe punishment of perpetrators are politically lobbied for. Conclusion Sub-Saharan migrants are at high risk of sexual victimization and subsequent ill-health in and around Morocco. Comprehensive cross-border and multi-level prevention actions are urgently called for. Given the European Neighbourhood Policy, we deem it paramount that the European Union politically cares for these migrants’ lives and health, takes up its responsibility, drastically changes migration regulation into one that upholds human rights beyond survival and enforces all authorities involved to restore migrants’ lives worthy to be lived again. PMID:24885537

Diffusion Driven Combustion Waves in Porous Media

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Aldushin, A. P.; Matkowsky, B. J.

2000-01-01

Filtration of gas containing oxidizer, to the reaction zone in a porous medium, due, e.g., to a buoyancy force or to an external pressure gradient, leads to the propagation of Filtration combustion (FC) waves. The exothermic reaction occurs between the fuel component of the solid matrix and the oxidizer. In this paper, we analyze the ability of a reaction wave to propagate in a porous medium without the aid of filtration. We find that one possible mechanism of propagation is that the wave is driven by diffusion of oxidizer from the environment. The solution of the combustion problem describing diffusion driven waves is similar to the solution of the Stefan problem describing the propagation of phase transition waves, in that the temperature on the interface between the burned and unburned regions is constant, the combustion wave is described by a similarity solution which is a function of the similarity variable x/square root of(t) and the wave velocity decays as 1/square root of(t). The difference between the two problems is that in the combustion problem the temperature is not prescribed, but rather, is determined as part of the solution. We will show that the length of samples in which such self-sustained combustion waves can occur, must exceed a critical value which strongly depends on the combustion temperature T(sub b). Smaller values of T(sub b) require longer sample lengths for diffusion driven combustion waves to exist. Because of their relatively small velocity, diffusion driven waves are considered to be relevant for the case of low heat losses, which occur for large diameter samples or in microgravity conditions, Another possible mechanism of porous medium combustion describes waves which propagate by consuming the oxidizer initially stored in the pores of the sample. This occurs for abnormally high pressure and gas density. In this case, uniformly propagating planar waves, which are kinetically controlled, can propagate, Diffusion of oxidizer decreases the wave velocity. In addition to the reaction and diffusion layers, the uniformly propagating wave structure includes a layer with a pressure gradient, where the gas motion is induced by the production or consumption of the gas in the reaction as well as by thermal expansion of the gas. The width of this zone determines the scale of the combustion wave in the porous medium.

Effect of Zn doping on the magneto-caloric effect and critical constants of Mott insulator MnV{sub 2}O{sub 4}

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

Shahi, Prashant; Kumar, A.; Shukla, K. K.

2014-09-15

X-ray absorption near edge spectra (XANES) and magnetization of Zn doped MnV{sub 2}O{sub 4} have been measured and from the magnetic measurement the critical exponents and magnetocaloric effect have been estimated. The XANES study indicates that Zn doping does not change the valence states in Mn and V. It has been shown that the obtained values of critical exponents β, γ and δ do not belong to universal class and the values are in between the 3D Heisenberg model and the mean field interaction model. The magnetization data follow the scaling equation and collapse into two branches indicating that themore » calculated critical exponents and critical temperature are unambiguous and intrinsic to the system. All the samples show large magneto-caloric effect. The second peak in magneto-caloric curve of Mn{sub 0.95}Zn{sub 0.05}V{sub 2}O{sub 4} is due to the strong coupling between orbital and spin degrees of freedom. But 10% Zn doping reduces the residual spins on the V-V pairs resulting the decrease of coupling between orbital and spin degrees of freedom.« less

The effects of increasing semantic-associate list length on the Deese-Roediger-McDermott false recognition memory: Dual false-memory process in retrieval from sub- and supraspan lists.

PubMed

Jou, Jerwen; Arredondo, Mario L; Li, Cheng; Escamilla, Eric E; Zuniga, Richard

2017-10-01

In this study, the number of semantic associates in Deese-Roediger-McDermott (DRM) lists was varied from 4 to 14 in a modified Sternberg paradigm. The false alarm (FA) and correct rejection (CR) reaction time (RT)/memory-set size (MSS) functions of critical lures showed a cross-over interaction at approximately MSS 7, suggesting a reversal of the relative dominance between these two responses to the critical lure at this point and also indicating the location of the boundary between the sub- and supraspan MSS. For the subspan lists, FA to critical lures was slower than CR, suggesting a slow, strategic mechanism driving the false memory. Conversely, for the supraspan lists, critical lure FA was faster than its CR, suggesting a spontaneous mechanism driving the false memory. Results of two experiments showed that an automatic, fast, and a slow, controlled process could be error-prone or error-corrective, depending on the length of the DRM memory list. Thus there is a dual retrieval process in false memory as in true memory. The findings can be explained by both the activation/monitoring and the fuzzy-trace theories.

Effects of Helium Ion Irradiation on Properties of Crystalline and Amorphous Multiphase Ceramic Coatings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Yong; Hu, Liangbin; Qiu, Changjun; He, Bin; Wang, Zhongchang

2017-08-01

The Al2O3-TiO2 crystalline and amorphous multiphase ceramic coatings were prepared on a martensitic steel by laser in situ reaction technique and impose irradiation with 200 keV He ions at different doses. The helium ion irradiation goes 1.55 μm deep from the surface of coating, and the displacement per atom (dpa) for the Al2O3-TiO2 coating is 20.0. When the irradiation fluency is 5 × 1017 ions/cm2, defects are identified in crystalline areas and there form interfacial areas in the coating. These crystal defects tend to migrate and converge at the interfaces. Moreover, helium ion irradiation is found to exert no effect on surface chemical composition and phase constitution of the coatings, while surface mechanical properties for the coatings after irradiation differ from those before irradiation. Further nano-indentation experiments reveal that surface nano-hardness of the Al2O3-TiO2 multiphase coatings decreases as the helium ions irradiation flux increases. Such Al2O3-TiO2 crystalline and amorphous multiphase ceramic coatings exhibit the strongest resistance against helium ion irradiation which shall be applied as candidate structural materials for accelerator-driven sub-critical system to handle the nuclear waste under extreme conditions.

Apparatus and method for measuring critical current properties of a coated conductor

DOEpatents

Mueller, Fred M [Los Alamos, NM; Haenisch, Jens [Dresden, DE

2012-07-24

The transverse critical-current uniformity in a superconducting tape was determined using a magnetic knife apparatus. A critical current I.sub.c distribution and transverse critical current density J.sub.c distribution in YBCO coated conductors was measured nondestructively with high resolution using a magnetic knife apparatus. The method utilizes the strong depression of J.sub.c in applied magnetic fields. A narrow region of low, including zero, magnetic field in a surrounding higher field is moved transversely across a sample of coated conductor. This reveals the critical current density distribution. A Fourier series inversion process was used to determine the transverse J.sub.c distribution in the sample.

Temperature-gradient-induced

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Cheol; Glaser, Matt; Maclennan, Joe; Clark, Noel; Trittel, Torsten; Stannarius, Ralf

Freely-suspended smectic films of sub-micrometer thickness and lateral extensions of several millimeters were used to study thermally driven migration and convection in the film plane. Film experiments were performed during the 6 minute microgravity phase of a TEXUS suborbital rocket flight (Texus 52, launched April 27, 2015). We have found an attraction of the smectic material towards the cold edge of the film in a temperature gradient, similar to the Soret effect. This process is reversed when this edge is heated up again. Thermal convection driven by two thermocontacts in the film is practically absent, even at temperature gradients up to 10 K/mm, with thermally driven convection only setting in when the hot post reaches the transition temperature to the nematic phase. The Observation and Analysis of Smectic Islands in Space (OASIS) flight hardware was launched on SpaceX-6 in April 2015 and experiments on smectic bubbles were carried out on the International Space Station using four different smectic A and C liquid crystal materials in separate sample chambers. We observed that smectic islands on the surface of the bubbles migrated towards the colder part of the bubble in a temperature gradient. This work was supported by NASA Grant No. NNX-13AQ81G, by the Soft Materials Research Center under NSF MRSEC Grants No. DMR-0820579 and No. DMR-1420736, and by DLR Grants 50WM1127 and 50WM1430.

The use of nanomaterials for mass spectrometry can be uplifting for analyte detection

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

Li, J.; Lipson, R. H.

2014-03-31

Surface-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization (SALDI) involves desorbing and ionizing analyte molecules from a nanoporous substrate by laser irradiation for detection in a mass spectrometer. In this work experiments were designed to better understand the mechanisms governing desorption and ionization for Desorption Ionization On Silicon (DIOS), a variant of SALDI which uses porous silicon (pSi) as a substrate. Experiments are also reported for other nanoporous semiconducting materials (WO{sub 3}, TiO{sub 2}) which exhibit very similar behaviors; specifically, that both protonated analyte ions and analyte radical cations can be generated with relative intensities that depend on the position of the incident lasermore » focus relative to substrate surface. While thermal desorption appears to be important, preliminary evidence suggests that the ionization mechanism leading to protonated analytes involves in part electrons and holes formed when photoexciting the substrate above its electronic band gap, and the presence of defect states within the band gap. Radical cation formation appears to be driven in part by electron transfer due to the large electron affinity of each substrate used in this work.« less

Light-field-driven currents in graphene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Higuchi, Takuya; Heide, Christian; Ullmann, Konrad; Weber, Heiko B.; Hommelhoff, Peter

2017-10-01

The ability to steer electrons using the strong electromagnetic field of light has opened up the possibility of controlling electron dynamics on the sub-femtosecond (less than 10-15 seconds) timescale. In dielectrics and semiconductors, various light-field-driven effects have been explored, including high-harmonic generation, sub-optical-cycle interband population transfer and the non-perturbative change of the transient polarizability. In contrast, much less is known about light-field-driven electron dynamics in narrow-bandgap systems or in conductors, in which screening due to free carriers or light absorption hinders the application of strong optical fields. Graphene is a promising platform with which to achieve light-field-driven control of electrons in a conducting material, because of its broadband and ultrafast optical response, weak screening and high damage threshold. Here we show that a current induced in monolayer graphene by two-cycle laser pulses is sensitive to the electric-field waveform, that is, to the exact shape of the optical carrier field of the pulse, which is controlled by the carrier-envelope phase, with a precision on the attosecond (10-18 seconds) timescale. Such a current, dependent on the carrier-envelope phase, shows a striking reversal of the direction of the current as a function of the driving field amplitude at about two volts per nanometre. This reversal indicates a transition of light-matter interaction from the weak-field (photon-driven) regime to the strong-field (light-field-driven) regime, where the intraband dynamics influence interband transitions. We show that in this strong-field regime the electron dynamics are governed by sub-optical-cycle Landau-Zener-Stückelberg interference, composed of coherent repeated Landau-Zener transitions on the femtosecond timescale. Furthermore, the influence of this sub-optical-cycle interference can be controlled with the laser polarization state. These coherent electron dynamics in graphene take place on a hitherto unexplored timescale, faster than electron-electron scattering (tens of femtoseconds) and electron-phonon scattering (hundreds of femtoseconds). We expect these results to have direct ramifications for band-structure tomography and light-field-driven petahertz electronics.

Light-field-driven currents in graphene.

PubMed

Higuchi, Takuya; Heide, Christian; Ullmann, Konrad; Weber, Heiko B; Hommelhoff, Peter

2017-10-12

The ability to steer electrons using the strong electromagnetic field of light has opened up the possibility of controlling electron dynamics on the sub-femtosecond (less than 10 -15 seconds) timescale. In dielectrics and semiconductors, various light-field-driven effects have been explored, including high-harmonic generation, sub-optical-cycle interband population transfer and the non-perturbative change of the transient polarizability. In contrast, much less is known about light-field-driven electron dynamics in narrow-bandgap systems or in conductors, in which screening due to free carriers or light absorption hinders the application of strong optical fields. Graphene is a promising platform with which to achieve light-field-driven control of electrons in a conducting material, because of its broadband and ultrafast optical response, weak screening and high damage threshold. Here we show that a current induced in monolayer graphene by two-cycle laser pulses is sensitive to the electric-field waveform, that is, to the exact shape of the optical carrier field of the pulse, which is controlled by the carrier-envelope phase, with a precision on the attosecond (10 -18 seconds) timescale. Such a current, dependent on the carrier-envelope phase, shows a striking reversal of the direction of the current as a function of the driving field amplitude at about two volts per nanometre. This reversal indicates a transition of light-matter interaction from the weak-field (photon-driven) regime to the strong-field (light-field-driven) regime, where the intraband dynamics influence interband transitions. We show that in this strong-field regime the electron dynamics are governed by sub-optical-cycle Landau-Zener-Stückelberg interference, composed of coherent repeated Landau-Zener transitions on the femtosecond timescale. Furthermore, the influence of this sub-optical-cycle interference can be controlled with the laser polarization state. These coherent electron dynamics in graphene take place on a hitherto unexplored timescale, faster than electron-electron scattering (tens of femtoseconds) and electron-phonon scattering (hundreds of femtoseconds). We expect these results to have direct ramifications for band-structure tomography and light-field-driven petahertz electronics.

Electric field effect in superconductor-ferroelectric structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lemanov, V. V.

1995-01-01

Electric field effect (the E-effect) in superconductors has been studied since 1960 when Glover and Sherill published their results on a shift of the critical temperature T(sub c) about 0.1 mK in Sn and In thin films under the action Off the field E=300 kV/cm. Stadler was the first to study the effect or spontaneous polarization of ferroelectric substrate on the electric properties of superconductors. He observed that the reversal of polarization of TGS substrate under action of external electric field in Sn-TGS structures induced the T(sub c) shift in Sn about 1.3 mK. Since in this case the effect is determined not by the electric field but by the spontaneous polarization, we may call this effect the P-effect. High-T(sub c) superconductors opened the new possibilities to study the E- and P-effects due to low charge carrier density, as compared to conventional superconductors, and to anomalously small coherence length. Experiments in this field began in many laboratories but a breakthrough was made where a shift in T(sub c) by 50 mK was observed in YBCO thin films. Much higher effects were observed in subsequent studies. The first experiments on the P-effect in high-T(sub c) superconductors were reported elsewhere. In this report we shall give a short description of study on the P-effect in high-T(sub c) superconductors.

Full-field dual-color 100-nm super-resolution imaging reveals organization and dynamics of mitochondrial and ER networks.

PubMed

Brunstein, Maia; Wicker, Kai; Hérault, Karine; Heintzmann, Rainer; Oheim, Martin

2013-11-04

Most structured illumination microscopes use a physical or synthetic grating that is projected into the sample plane to generate a periodic illumination pattern. Albeit simple and cost-effective, this arrangement hampers fast or multi-color acquisition, which is a critical requirement for time-lapse imaging of cellular and sub-cellular dynamics. In this study, we designed and implemented an interferometric approach allowing large-field, fast, dual-color imaging at an isotropic 100-nm resolution based on a sub-diffraction fringe pattern generated by the interference of two colliding evanescent waves. Our all-mirror-based system generates illumination pat-terns of arbitrary orientation and period, limited only by the illumination aperture (NA = 1.45), the response time of a fast, piezo-driven tip-tilt mirror (10 ms) and the available fluorescence signal. At low µW laser powers suitable for long-period observation of life cells and with a camera exposure time of 20 ms, our system permits the acquisition of super-resolved 50 µm by 50 µm images at 3.3 Hz. The possibility it offers for rapidly adjusting the pattern between images is particularly advantageous for experiments that require multi-scale and multi-color information. We demonstrate the performance of our instrument by imaging mitochondrial dynamics in cultured cortical astrocytes. As an illustration of dual-color excitation dual-color detection, we also resolve interaction sites between near-membrane mitochondria and the endoplasmic reticulum. Our TIRF-SIM microscope provides a versatile, compact and cost-effective arrangement for super-resolution imaging, allowing the investigation of co-localization and dynamic interactions between organelles--important questions in both cell biology and neurophysiology.

Benchmark of ReaxFF force field for subcritical and supercritical water.

PubMed

Manzano, Hegoi; Zhang, Weiwei; Raju, Muralikrishna; Dolado, Jorge S; López-Arbeloa, Iñigo; van Duin, Adri C T

2018-06-21

Water in the subcritical and supercritical states has remarkable properties that make it an excellent solvent for oxidation of hazardous chemicals, waste separation, and green synthesis. Molecular simulations are a valuable complement to experiments in order to understand and improve the relevant sub- and super-critical reaction mechanisms. Since water molecules under these conditions can act not only as a solvent but also as a reactant, dissociative force fields are especially interesting to investigate these processes. In this work, we evaluate the capacity of the ReaxFF force field to reproduce the microstructure, hydrogen bonding, dielectric constant, diffusion, and proton transfer of sub- and super-critical water. Our results indicate that ReaxFF is able to simulate water properties in these states in very good quantitative agreement with the existing experimental data, with the exception of the static dielectric constant that is reproduced only qualitatively.

Oxidation of CO by N/sub 2/O between 1076 and 1228 K: determination of the rate constant of the exchange reaction

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

Loirat, H.; Caralp, F.; Destriau, M.

New measurements of the rate constant of the direct reaction of CO with N/sub 2/O are reported with the principal purpose of removing some of the remaining discrepancies on its value. Experiments were performed at lower temperatures (1076-1228 K) and lower pressure (approx. 15 Torr) than those prevailing in most of previous works, by using a static reactor. It is shown that, under these experimental conditions, the reaction proceeds essentially according to the direct reaction CO + N/sub 2/O ..-->.. CO/sub 2/ + N/sub 2/ (1). The previously proposed wet mechanism is not significant under our experimental conditions. It hasmore » to be taken into account, however, to describe the observed production and consumption of molecular oxygen. The Arrhenius expression derived from these experiments is k/sub 1/ = 10/sup 14.4 +/- 0.3 exp(-(46 +- 2) kcal mol/sup -1/RT) cm/sup 3/ mol/sup -1/ s/sup -1/. A detailed analysis of the results shows that the uncertainties in side reactions do not greatly influence the value of k/sub 1/. A critical discussion of the data reported in the literature is presented. In spite of remaining uncertainties in the reaction mechanism, the present results, obtained in a low-temperature range, show that the low activation energy values of reaction 1, reported in several works performed at higher temperatures, are highly unlikely« less

Clinical review: Critical care in the global context – disparities in burden of illness, access, and economics

PubMed Central

Fowler, Robert A; Adhikari, Neill KJ; Bhagwanjee, Satish

2008-01-01

World health care expenditures exceed US $4 trillion. However, there is marked variation in global health care spending, from upwards of US $7,000 per capita in the US to under US $25 per capita in most of sub-Saharan Africa. In developed countries, care of the critically ill comprises a large proportion of health care spending; however, in developing countries, with a greater burden of both illness and critical illness, there is little infrastructure to provide care for these patients. There is sparse research to inform the needs of critically ill patients, but often basic requirements such as trained personnel, medications, oxygen, diagnostic and therapeutic equipment, reliable power supply, and safe transportation are unavailable. Why should this be a focus of intensivists of the developed world? Nearly all of those dying in developing countries would be our patients without the accident of latitude. Tailored to the needs of the region, the provision of critical care has a role, even in the context of limited preventive and primary care. Internationally and locally driven solutions are needed. We can help by recognizing the '10/90 gap' that is pervasive within global health care and our profession by educating ourselves of needs, contacting and collaborating with colleagues in the developing world, and advocating that our professional societies and funding agencies consider an increasingly global perspective in education and research. PMID:19014409

A Geophysical Flow Experiment in a Compressible Critical Fluid

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hegseth, John; Garcia, Laudelino

1996-01-01

The first objective of this experiment is to build an experimental system in which, in analogy to a geophysical system, a compressible fluid in a spherical annulus becomes radially stratified in density through an A.C. electric field. When this density gradient is demonstrated, the system will be augmented so that the fluid can be driven by heating and rotation and tested in preparation for a microgravity experiment. This apparatus consists of a spherical capacitor filled with critical fluid in a temperature controlled environment. To make the fluid critical, the apparatus will be operated near the critical pressure, critical density, and critical temperature of the fluid. This will result in a highly compressible fluid because of the properties of the fluid near its critical point. A high voltage A.C. source applied across the capacitor will create a spherically symmetric central force because of the dielectric properties of the fluid in an electric field gradient. This central force will induce a spherically symmetric density gradient that is analogous to a geophysical fluid system. To generate such a density gradient the system must be small (approx. 1 inch diameter). This small cell will also be capable of driving the critical fluid by heating and rotation. Since a spherically symmetric density gradient can only be made in microgravity, another small cell, of the same geometry, will be built that uses incompressible fluid. The driving of the fluid by rotation and heating in these small cells will be developed. The resulting instabilities from the driving in these two systems will then be studied. The second objective is to study the pattern forming instabilities (bifurcations) resulting from the well controlled experimental conditions in the critical fluid cell. This experiment will come close to producing conditions that are geophysically similar and will be studied as the driving parameters are changed.

Simulation study of the sub-terawatt laser wakefield acceleration operated in self-modulated regime

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hsieh, C.-Y.; Lin, M.-W.; Chen, S.-H.

2018-02-01

Laser wakefield acceleration (LWFA) can be accomplished by introducing a sub-terawatt (TW) laser pulse into a thin, high-density gas target. In this way, the self-focusing effect and the self-modulation that happened on the laser pulse produce a greatly enhanced laser peak intensity that can drive a nonlinear plasma wave to accelerate electrons. A particle-in-cell model is developed to study sub-TW LWFA when a 0.6-TW laser pulse interacts with a dense hydrogen plasma. Gas targets having a Gaussian density profile or a flat-top distribution are defined for investigating the properties of sub-TW LWFA when conducting with a gas jet or a gas cell. In addition to using 800-nm laser pulses, simulations are performed with 1030-nm laser pulses, as they represent a viable approach to realize the sub-TW LWFA driven by high-frequency, diode-pumped laser systems. The peak density which allows the laser peak power PL˜2 Pc r of self-focusing critical power is favourable for conducting sub-TW LWFA. Otherwise, an excessively high peak density can induce an undesired filament effect which rapidly disintegrates the laser field envelope and violates the process of plasma wave excitation. The plateau region of a flat-top density distribution allows the self-focusing and the self-modulation of the laser pulse to develop, from which well-established plasma bubbles can be produced to accelerate electrons. The process of electron injection is complicated in such high-density plasma conditions; however, increasing the length of the plateau region represents a straightforward method to realize the injection and acceleration of electrons within the first bubble, such that an improved LWFA performance can be accomplished.

Design and testing of a magnetically driven implosion peak current diagnostic

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hess, M. H.; Peterson, K. J.; Ampleford, D. J.; Hutsel, B. T.; Jennings, C. A.; Gomez, M. R.; Dolan, D. H.; Robertson, G. K.; Payne, S. L.; Stygar, W. A.; Martin, M. R.; Sinars, D. B.

2018-04-01

A critical component of the magnetically driven implosion experiments at Sandia National Laboratories is the delivery of high-current, 10s of MA, from the Z pulsed power facility to a target. In order to assess the performance of the experiment, it is necessary to measure the current delivered to the target. Recent Magnetized Liner Inertial Fusion (MagLIF) experiments have included velocimetry diagnostics, such as PDV (Photonic Doppler Velocimetry) or Velocity Interferometer System for Any Reflector, in the final power feed section in order to infer the load current as a function of time. However, due to the nonlinear volumetrically distributed magnetic force within a velocimetry flyer, a complete time-dependent load current unfold is typically a time-intensive process and the uncertainties in the unfold can be difficult to assess. In this paper, we discuss how a PDV diagnostic can be simplified to obtain a peak current by sufficiently increasing the thickness of the flyer. This effectively keeps the magnetic force localized to the flyer surface, resulting in fast and highly accurate measurements of the peak load current. In addition, we show the results of experimental peak load current measurements from the PDV diagnostic in recent MagLIF experiments.

Nonlinear evolution of the Rayleigh-Taylor and Richtmyer-Meshkov instabilities

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

Dimonte, G

Scaled experiments on the nonlinear evolution of the Rayleigh- Taylor (RT) and Richtmyer-Meshkov (RM) instabilities are described under a variety, of conditions that occur in nature. At high Reynolds number, the mixing layer grows self-similarly - {alpha}{sub i}Agt{sup 2} for a constant acceleration (g), and as a power law t{sup {theta}{sub i}} for impulsive accelerations U{delta}(t) at low and high Mach numbers. The growth coefficients {alpha}{sub i} and {theta}{sub i} exponents are measured over a comprehensive range of Atwood numbers A. The RT instability is also investigated with Non- Newtonian materials which are independently characterized. A critical wavelength and amplitudemore » for instability is observed associated with the shear modulus and tensile yield of the material. The results are applicable from supernova explosions to geophysical flows subject to these hydrodynamic instabilities.« less

Induced Currents in Multiple Resonant Scattering

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

Ruby, Stanley L

We will describe here some results from a MRS scattering model designed to be appropriate for slow resonant scattering. This temporal model is based squarely in induced currents in individual nuclei; a natural consequence is that reradiation into 4{pi} is natural, and does not involve special mechanisms like spin-flips or imperfections of the lattice. Driven by these ideas, we have been able to do experiments where the 4{pi}-shine decay rate around the scattering (FS) slabs is measured simultaneously with the FS rate. Our SS scattering slabs are simple as possible--no hyperfine fields, no crystal structure, and quite static in time.more » Get mainly the one important set of currents jp, an associated FS field Ep, and finally an associated beamlike intensity R{sub fs}(t). But in addition, each current, even jp, contributes to the 4{pi}-shine intensity. This gives quantitative agreement with R{sub 4{pi}}(t), which is rather more complicated than the simple e{sup {minus}t} one might first expect. MRS predicts another set of currents ju, with an associated 4{pi} intensity R{sub 4{pi}}(t). The modifiers refer to unphased and phased. With static SS slabs, this branch is weak, and can be neglected. Driven by these ideas, we have prepared scattering samples where the atoms holding the currents are being stirred about (by diffusion) rather rapidly. This provides a method for dephasing the jp, but also provides a generation rate for ju. The experimental data is not of great quality at this early stage. But the present rough MRS calculations fit easily.« less

Safety Criticality Standards Using the French CRISTAL Code Package: Application to the AREVA NP UO{sub 2} Fuel Fabrication Plant

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

Doucet, M.; Durant Terrasson, L.; Mouton, J.

2006-07-01

Criticality safety evaluations implement requirements to proof of sufficient sub critical margins outside of the reactor environment for example in fuel fabrication plants. Basic criticality data (i.e., criticality standards) are used in the determination of sub critical margins for all processes involving plutonium or enriched uranium. There are several criticality international standards, e.g., ARH-600, which is one the US nuclear industry relies on. The French Nuclear Safety Authority (DGSNR and its advising body IRSN) has requested AREVA NP to review the criticality standards used for the evaluation of its Low Enriched Uranium fuel fabrication plants with CRISTAL V0, the recentlymore » updated French criticality evaluation package. Criticality safety is a concern for every phase of the fabrication process including UF{sub 6} cylinder storage, UF{sub 6}-UO{sub 2} conversion, powder storage, pelletizing, rod loading, assembly fabrication, and assembly transportation. Until 2003, the accepted criticality standards were based on the French CEA work performed in the late seventies with the APOLLO1 cell/assembly computer code. APOLLO1 is a spectral code, used for evaluating the basic characteristics of fuel assemblies for reactor physics applications, which has been enhanced to perform criticality safety calculations. Throughout the years, CRISTAL, starting with APOLLO1 and MORET 3 (a 3D Monte Carlo code), has been improved to account for the growth of its qualification database and for increasing user requirements. Today, CRISTAL V0 is an up-to-date computational tool incorporating a modern basic microscopic cross section set based on JEF2.2 and the comprehensive APOLLO2 and MORET 4 codes. APOLLO2 is well suited for criticality standards calculations as it includes a sophisticated self shielding approach, a P{sub ij} flux determination, and a 1D transport (S{sub n}) process. CRISTAL V0 is the result of more than five years of development work focusing on theoretical approaches and the implementation of user-friendly graphical interfaces. Due to its comprehensive physical simulation and thanks to its broad qualification database with more than a thousand benchmark/calculation comparisons, CRISTAL V0 provides outstanding and reliable accuracy for criticality evaluations for configurations covering the entire fuel cycle (i.e. from enrichment, pellet/assembly fabrication, transportation, to fuel reprocessing). After a brief description of the calculation scheme and the physics algorithms used in this code package, results for the various fissile media encountered in a UO{sub 2} fuel fabrication plant will be detailed and discussed. (authors)« less

Electrodeposition of hierarchical ZnO/Cu{sub 2}O nanorod films for highly efficient visible-light-driven photocatalytic applications

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

Ren, S. T.; Fan, G. H.; Liang, M. L.

2014-02-14

The development of high-performance visible-light-responsive photocatalytic materials has attracted widespread interest due to their potential applications in the environmental and energy industries. In this work, hierarchical ZnO nanorods films were successfully prepared on the stainless steel mesh substrates via a simple two-step seed-assisted electrodeposition route. Cu{sub 2}O nanoparticles were then electrodeposited on the surface of ZnO nanorods to form the core-shell heterostructure. The synthesized ZnO/Cu{sub 2}O nanocomposites were characterized by X-ray diffraction, field-emission scanning electron microscopy, and UV-visible spectrophotometer. Due to the branched hierarchical morphologies and core-shell structure, ZnO/Cu{sub 2}O nanomaterials show a prominent visible-light-driven photocatalytic performance under the low-intensitymore » light irradiation (40 mW/cm{sup 2}). The influence of some experimental parameters, such as Cu{sub 2}O loading amount, ZnO morphologies, the substrate type, and the PH of the Cu{sub 2}O precursor solution on ZnO/Cu{sub 2}O photocatalytic performance was evaluated.« less

Process design and economic analysis of the zinc selenide thermochemical hydrogen cycle

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

Otsuki, H.H.; Krikorian, O.H.

1978-09-06

A detailed preliminary design for a hydrogen production plant has been developed based on an improved version of the ZnSe thermochemical cycle for decomposing water. In the latest version of the cycle, ZnCl/sub 2/ is converted directly to ZnO through high temperature steam hydrolysis. This eliminates the need for first converting ZnCl/sub 2/ to ZnSO/sub 4/ and also slightly reduces the overall heat requirement. Moreover, it broadens the temperature range over which prime heat is required and improves the coupling of the cycle with a nuclear reactor heat source. The ZnSe cycle is driven by a very-high-temperature nuclear reactor (VHTR)more » proposed by Westinghouse that provides a high-temperature (1283 K) helium working gas for process heat and power. The plant is sized to produce 27.3 Mg H/sub 2//h (60,000 lb H/sub 2//h) and requires specially designed equipment to perform the critical reaction steps in the cycle. We have developed conceptual designs for several of the important process steps to make cost estimates, and have obtained a cycle efficiency of about 40% and a hydrogen production cost of about $14/GJ. We believe that the cost is high because input data on reaction rates and equipment lifetimes have been conservatively estimated and the cycle parameters have not been optimized. Nonetheless, this initial analysis serves an important function in delineating areas in the cycle where additional research is needed to increase efficiency and reduce costs in a more advanced version of the cycle.« less

Critical current densities of Jelly-Roll and powder metallurgy Nb{sub 3}Al wires as a function of temperature and magnetic field

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

Thieme, C.L.H.; Kim, J.B.; Takayasu, M.

Critical current densities of multi-filamentary Nb{sub 3}Al wire made with the Jelly-Roll process (JR) and mono-core powder metallurgy process (PM) wire were measured as a function of temperature and magnetic field. The temperature dependence of the resistive critical field B{sub c2} was measured in PM wires. There is a significant difference between these resistive B{sub c2} values and the ones determined by Kramer plots. The field dependence of the critical current depends on the manufacturing method. In general, it follows a relationship that falls between pure Kramer and one where the pinning force is inversely proportional with B{sup 2}. Inmore » contrast with Nb{sub 3}Sn no maximum in the bulk pinning force is observed down to 3 T (0.15MxB{sub c2}).« less

The effect of beam-driven return current instability on solar hard X-ray bursts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cromwell, D.; Mcquillan, P.; Brown, J. C.

1986-01-01

The problem of electrostatic wave generation by a return current driven by a small area electron beam during solar hard X-ray bursts is discussed. The marginal stability method is used to solve numerically the electron and ion heating equations for a prescribed beam current evolution. When ion-acoustic waves are considered, the method appears satisfactory and, following an initial phase of Coulomb resistivity in which T sub e/T sub i rise, predicts a rapid heating of substantial plasma volumes by anomalous ohmic dissipation. This hot plasma emits so much thermal bremsstrahlung that, contrary to previous expectations, the unstable beam-plasma system actually emits more hard X-rays than does the beam in the purely collisional thick target regime relevant to larger injection areas. Inclusion of ion-cyclotron waves results in ion-acoustic wave onset at lower T sub e/T sub i and a marginal stability treatment yields unphysical results.

Tunable, superconducting, surface-emitting teraherz source

DOEpatents

Welp, Ulrich [Lisle, IL; Koshelev, Alexei E [Bolingbrook, IL; Gray, Kenneth E [Evanston, IL; Kwok, Wai-Kwong [Evanston, IL; Vlasko-Vlasov, Vitalii [Downers Grove, IL

2009-10-27

A compact, solid-state THz source based on the driven Josephson vortex lattice in a highly anisotropic superconductor such as Bi.sub.2Sr.sub.2CaCu.sub.2O.sub.8 that allows cw emission at tunable frequency. A second order metallic Bragg grating is used to achieve impedance matching and to induce surface emission of THz-radiation from a Bi.sub.2Sr.sub.2CaCu.sub.2O.sub.8 sample. Steering of the emitted THz beam is accomplished by tuning the Josephson vortex spacing around the grating period using a superimposed magnetic control field.

Tunable, superconducting, surface-emitting teraherz source

DOEpatents

Welp, Ulrich; Koshelev, Alexei E.; Gray, Kenneth E.; Kwok, Wai-Kwong; Vlasko-Vlasov, Vitalii

2010-05-11

A compact, solid-state THz source based on the driven Josephson vortex lattice in a highly anisotropic superconductor such as Bi.sub.2Sr.sub.2CaCu.sub.2O.sub.8 that allows cw emission at tunable frequency. A second order metallic Bragg grating is used to achieve impedance matching and to induce surface emission of THz-radiation from a Bi.sub.2Sr.sub.2CaCu.sub.2O.sub.8 sample. Steering of the emitted THz beam is accomplished by tuning the Josephson vortex spacing around the grating period using a superimposed magnetic control field.

Magnetic Control of Solutal Buoyancy Driven Convection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ramachandran, N.; Leslie, F. W.

2003-01-01

Volumetric forces resulting from local density variations and gravitational acceleration cause buoyancy induced convective motion in melts and solutions. Solutal buoyancy is a result of concentration differences in an otherwise isothermal fluid. If the fluid also exhibits variations in magnetic susceptibility with concentration then convection control by external magnetic fields can be hypothesized. Magnetic control of thermal buoyancy induced convection in ferrofluids (dispersions of ferromagnetic particles in a carrier fluid) and paramagnetic fluids have been demonstrated. Here we show the nature of magnetic control of solutal buoyancy driven convection of a paramagnetic fluid, an aqueous solution of Manganese Chloride hydrate. We predict the critical magnetic field required for balancing gravitational solutal buoyancy driven convection and validate it through a simple experiment. We demonstrate that gravity driven flow can be completely reversed by a magnetic field but the exact cancellation of the flow is not possible. This is because the phenomenon is unstable. The technique can be applied to crystal growth processes in order to reduce convection and to heat exchanger devices for enhancing convection. The method can also be applied to impose a desired g-level in reduced gravity applications.

Experimental study of an isochorically heated heterogeneous interface. A progress report

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

Fernandez, Juan Carlos

2015-08-20

Outline of the presentation: Studying possible mix / interface motion between heterogeneous low/high Z interfaces driven by 2-fluid or kinetic plasma effects (Heated to few eV, Sharp (sub µm) interface); Isochoric heating to initialize interface done with Al quasimonoenergetic ion beams on Trident; Have measured isochoric heating in individual materials intended for compound targets; Fielded experiments on Trident to measure interface motion (Gold-diamond, tin-aluminium); Measured heated-sample temperature with streaked optical pyrometry (SOP) (UT Austin led (research contract), SOP tests → heating uniformity Vs thickness on Al foils. Results are being analyzed.

Strain Relaxation in Si{sub 1-x}Ge{sub x} Thin Films on Si(100) Substrates: Modeling and Comparisons with Experiments

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

Kolluri, K; Zepeda-Ruiz, L A; Murthy, C S

2005-03-22

Strained semiconductor thin films grown epitaxially on semiconductor substrates of different composition, such as Si{sub 1-x}Ge{sub x}/Si, are becoming increasingly important in modern microelectronic technologies. In this paper, we report a hierarchical computational approach for analysis of dislocation formation, glide motion, multiplication, and annihilation in Si{sub 1-x}Ge{sub x} epitaxial thin films on Si substrates. Specifically, a condition is developed for determining the critical film thickness with respect to misfit dislocation generation as a function of overall film composition, film compositional grading, and (compliant) substrate thickness. In addition, the kinetics of strain relaxation in the epitaxial film during growth or thermalmore » annealing (including post-implantation annealing) is analyzed using a properly parameterized dislocation mean-field theoretical model, which describes plastic deformation dynamics due to threading dislocation propagation. The theoretical results for Si{sub 1-x}Ge{sub x} epitaxial thin films grown on Si (100) substrates are compared with experimental measurements and are used to discuss film growth and thermal processing protocols toward optimizing the mechanical response of the epitaxial film.« less

The NOvA Technical Design Report

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

Ayres, D.S.; Drake, G.R.; Goodman, M.C.

Technical Design Report (TDR) describes the preliminary design of the NOvA accelerator upgrades, NOvA detectors, detector halls and detector sites. Compared to the March 2006 and November 2006 NOvA Conceptual Design Reports (CDR), critical value engineering studies have been completed and the alternatives still active in the CDR have been narrowed to achieve a preliminary technical design ready for a Critical Decision 2 review. Many aspects of NOvA described this TDR are complete to a level far beyond a preliminary design. In particular, the access road to the NOvA Far Detector site in Minnesota has an advanced technical design atmore » a level appropriate for a Critical Decision 3a review. Several components of the accelerator upgrade and new neutrino detectors also have advanced technical designs appropriate for a Critical Decision 3a review. Chapter 1 is an Executive Summary with a short description of the NOvA project. Chapter 2 describes how the Fermilab NuMI beam will provide a narrow band beam of neutrinos for NOvA. Chapter 3 gives an updated overview of the scientific basis for the NOvA experiment, focusing on the primary goal to extend the search for {nu}{sub {mu}} {yields} {nu}{sub e} oscillations and measure the sin{sup 2}(2{theta}{sub 13}) parameter. This parameter has not been measured in any previous experiment and NOvA would extend the search by about an order of magnitude beyond the current limit. A secondary goal is to measure the dominant mode oscillation parameters, sin{sup 2}(2{theta}{sub 23}) and {Delta}m{sub 32}{sup 2} to a more precise level than previous experiments. Additional physics goals for NOvA are also discussed. Chapter 4 describes the Scientific Design Criteria which the Fermilab accelerator complex, NOvA detectors and NOvA detector sites must satisfy to meet the physics goals discussed in Chapter 3. Chapter 5 is an overview of the NOvA project. The changes in the design relative to the NOvA CDR are discussed. Chapter 6 summarizes the NOvA design performance relative to the Design Criteria set out in Chapter 4. Chapter 7 presents the Work Breakdown Structure dictionary at Level 3 and the Milestone dictionary. Chapters 8 through 17 then take each Level 2 WBS element of the NOvA project and present each part of the design in more detail than the overview given in Chapter 5. Specific technical design criteria are delineated for each part of the project in addition to the scientific design criteria outlined in Chapter 4. Changes in the design since the NOvA CDR are discussed in detail. The work remaining to bring each part of this preliminary design to a final design is outlined. Appendix A is a guide to other NOvA Project documentation with links to those documents.« less

Quantum criticality at the superconductor-insulator transition revealed by specific heat measurements

PubMed Central

Poran, S.; Nguyen-Duc, T.; Auerbach, A.; Dupuis, N.; Frydman, A.; Bourgeois, Olivier

2017-01-01

The superconductor–insulator transition (SIT) is considered an excellent example of a quantum phase transition that is driven by quantum fluctuations at zero temperature. The quantum critical point is characterized by a diverging correlation length and a vanishing energy scale. Low-energy fluctuations near quantum criticality may be experimentally detected by specific heat, cp, measurements. Here we use a unique highly sensitive experiment to measure cp of two-dimensional granular Pb films through the SIT. The specific heat shows the usual jump at the mean field superconducting transition temperature marking the onset of Cooper pairs formation. As the film thickness is tuned towards the SIT, is relatively unchanged, while the magnitude of the jump and low-temperature specific heat increase significantly. This behaviour is taken as the thermodynamic fingerprint of quantum criticality in the vicinity of a quantum phase transition. PMID:28224994

Quantum criticality at the superconductor-insulator transition revealed by specific heat measurements.

PubMed

Poran, S; Nguyen-Duc, T; Auerbach, A; Dupuis, N; Frydman, A; Bourgeois, Olivier

2017-02-22

The superconductor-insulator transition (SIT) is considered an excellent example of a quantum phase transition that is driven by quantum fluctuations at zero temperature. The quantum critical point is characterized by a diverging correlation length and a vanishing energy scale. Low-energy fluctuations near quantum criticality may be experimentally detected by specific heat, c p , measurements. Here we use a unique highly sensitive experiment to measure c p of two-dimensional granular Pb films through the SIT. The specific heat shows the usual jump at the mean field superconducting transition temperature marking the onset of Cooper pairs formation. As the film thickness is tuned towards the SIT, is relatively unchanged, while the magnitude of the jump and low-temperature specific heat increase significantly. This behaviour is taken as the thermodynamic fingerprint of quantum criticality in the vicinity of a quantum phase transition.

Spin Seebeck devices using local on-chip heating

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

Wu, Stephen M., E-mail: swu@anl.gov; Fradin, Frank Y.; Hoffman, Jason

2015-05-07

A micro-patterned spin Seebeck device is fabricated using an on-chip heater. Current is driven through a Au heater layer electrically isolated from a bilayer consisting of Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} (insulating ferrimagnet) and a spin detector layer. It is shown that through this method it is possible to measure the longitudinal spin Seebeck effect (SSE) for small area magnetic devices, equivalent to traditional macroscopic SSE experiments. Using a lock-in detection technique, it is possible to more sensitively characterize both the SSE and the anomalous Nernst effect (ANE), as well as the inverse spin Hall effect in various spin detector materials. Bymore » using the spin detector layer as a thermometer, we can obtain a value for the temperature gradient across the device. These results are well matched to values obtained through electromagnetic/thermal modeling of the device structure and with large area spin Seebeck measurements.« less

Comparison of electric dipole and magnetic loop antennas for exciting whistler modes

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

Stenzel, R. L.; Urrutia, J. M.

2016-08-15

The excitation of low frequency whistler modes from different antennas has been investigated experimentally in a large laboratory plasma. One antenna consists of a linear electric dipole oriented across the uniform ambient magnetic field B{sub 0}. The other antenna is an elongated loop with dipole moment parallel to B{sub 0}. Both antennas are driven by the same rf generator which produces a rf burst well below the electron cyclotron frequency. The antenna currents as well as the wave magnetic fields from each antenna are measured. Both the antenna currents and the wave fields of the loop antenna exceed that ofmore » the electric dipole by two orders of magnitude. The conclusion is that loop antennas are far superior to dipole antennas for exciting large amplitude whistler modes, a result important for active wave experiments in space plasmas.« less

High-frequency shear Alfven instability driven by circulating energetic ions in NSTX

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

Kolesnichenko, Ya. I.; White, R. B.; Yakovenko, Yu. V.

2006-12-15

It is shown that a number of features of an instability with the frequency comparable to the ion gyrofrequency observed in the National Spherical Torus Experiment [E. D. Fredrickson et al., 'Observation of hole-clump pair generation by global or compressional Alfven eigenmodes', Contributed Papers, 33rd European Physical Society Conference on Plasma Physics, Rome, 2006, Europhysics Conference Abstracts (European Physical Society, Petit-Lancy, 2006), Report P5.058 (unpublished)] is consistent with the features of the Alfven instability with large, about the inverse, Larmor radius of the energetic ions ({rho}{sub b}{sup -1}) longitudinal wavenumbers. The conclusions drawn are based on an analysis of themore » resonant interaction of the energetic circulating ions and the waves, as well as on the calculation of the instability growth rate taking into account effects of the finite Larmor radius, {rho}{sub b}.« less

Onset of turbulence in accelerated high-Reynolds-number flow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Ye; Robey, Harry F.; Buckingham, Alfred C.

2003-05-01

A new criterion, flow drive time, is identified here as a necessary condition for transition to turbulence in accelerated, unsteady flows. Compressible, high-Reynolds-number flows initiated, for example, in shock tubes, supersonic wind tunnels with practical limitations on dimensions or reservoir capacity, and high energy density pulsed laser target vaporization experimental facilities may not provide flow duration adequate for turbulence development. In addition, for critical periods of the overall flow development, the driving background flow is often unsteady in the experiments as well as in the physical flow situations they are designed to mimic. In these situations transition to fully developed turbulence may not be realized despite achievement of flow Reynolds numbers associated with or exceeding stationary flow transitional criteria. Basically our transitional criterion and prediction procedure extends to accelerated, unsteady background flow situations the remarkably universal mixing transition criterion proposed by Dimotakis [P. E. Dimotakis, J. Fluid Mech. 409, 69 (2000)] for stationary flows. This provides a basis for the requisite space and time scaling. The emphasis here is placed on variable density flow instabilities initiated by constant acceleration Rayleigh-Taylor instability (RTI) or impulsive (shock) acceleration Richtmyer-Meshkov instability (RMI) or combinations of both. The significant influences of compressibility on these developing transitional flows are discussed with their implications on the procedural model development. A fresh perspective for predictive modeling and design of experiments for the instability growth and turbulent mixing transitional interval is provided using an analogy between the well-established buoyancy-drag model with applications of a hierarchy of single point turbulent transport closure models. Experimental comparisons with the procedural results are presented where use is made of three distinctly different types of acceleration driven instability experiments: (1) classical, relatively low speed, constant acceleration RTI experiments; (2) shock tube, shockwave driven RMI flow mixing experiments; (3) laser target vaporization RTI and RMI mixing experiments driven at very high energy density. These last named experiments are of special interest as they provide scaleable flow conditions simulating those of astrophysical magnitude such as shock-driven hydrodynamic mixing in supernova evolution research.

The Role and Potential Dangers of Visualisation When Learning about Sub-Microscopic Explanations in Chemistry Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Eilks, Ingo; Witteck, Torsten; Pietzner, Verena

2012-01-01

The core of theory-driven chemistry education consists of the constant shift between the different representational domains of chemical thinking: the macroscopic, the sub-microscopic, and the symbolic domains. Because the sub-microscopic domain can neither be seen nor directly visualised, it requires specific forms of visualisation, i.e. pictures…

NUMERICAL SIMULATIONS OF THERMOHALINE CONVECTION: IMPLICATIONS FOR EXTRA-MIXING IN LOW-MASS RGB STARS

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

Denissenkov, Pavel A., E-mail: pavel.denisenkov@gmail.co

2010-11-01

Low-mass stars are known to experience extra-mixing in their radiative zones on the red giant branch (RGB) above the bump luminosity. To determine if the salt-fingering transport of chemical composition driven by {sup 3}He burning is efficient enough to produce RGB extra-mixing, two-dimensional numerical simulations of thermohaline convection for physical conditions corresponding to the RGB case have been carried out. We have found that the effective ratio of a salt finger's length to its diameter a{sub eff} {approx}< 0.5 is more than 10 times smaller than the value needed to reproduce observations (a{sub obs} {approx}> 7). On the other hand,more » using the thermohaline diffusion coefficient from linear stability analysis together with a = a{sub obs} is able to describe the RGB extra-mixing at all metallicities so well that it is tempting to believe that it may represent the true mechanism. In view of these results, follow-up three-dimensional numerical simulations of thermohaline convection for the RGB case are clearly needed.« less

A simplified filterless photonic frequency octupling scheme based on cascaded modulators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Wu; Wen, Aijun; Gao, Yongsheng; Zheng, Hanxiao; Chen, Wei; He, Hongye

2017-04-01

A simplified filterless frequency octupling scheme by connecting an intensity modulator (IM) with a dual-parallel Mach-Zehnder (DPMZM) in series is proposed in this paper. The LO signal is distributed into two parts, and one part is used to drive the IM and the other part is applied to drive the DPMZM's upper sub-modulator, both at the peak point. The lower sub-modulator is only driven by dc bias, and the parent modulator works at null point. By properly adjusting dc bias of the lower sub-modulator, only ±4th-order optical sidebands dominate at the output of the DPMZM. The approach is verified by experiments, and 32-GHz and 40-GHz millimetre waves (mm-waves) are generated using 4-GHz and 5-GHz LO signals, respectively. We acquire a 15-dB electrical spurious suppression ratio (ESSR) and a relatively good phase noise of the signal. Compared with other schemes, the scheme is simple in configuration because only an IM and a DPMZM are needed. What's more, the scheme is tunable in frequency as no filter is used.

Role of Na/sub 2/S in anoxygenic photosynthesis and H/sub 2/ production in the cyanobacterium Nostoc Muscorum

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

Fry, I.; Robinson, A.E.; Spath, S.

1984-09-28

Na/sub 2/S is known to support anoxygenic photosynthesis in some strains of cyanobacteria and to stimulate H/sub 2/ production in N/sub 2/ fixing filaments of Nostoc muscorum. We have shown electron transfer between Na/sub 2/S and Photosystem I to be dependent on cytochrome b/sub 559/ which was detected only in vegetative cells. An electron mediator was required to support Na/sub 2/S driven nitrogenase activity in isolated heterocysts. Na/sub 2/S was also found to deplete the ATP pool, probably by inhibiting electron transfer from Photosystem I. 14 references, 4 figures.

Shear Thinning Near the Critical Point of Xenon

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zimmerli, Gregory A.; Berg, Robert F.; Moldover, Michael R.; Yao, Minwu

2008-01-01

We measured shear thinning, a viscosity decrease ordinarily associated with complex liquids, near the critical point of xenon. The data span a wide range of reduced shear rate: 10(exp -3) < gamma-dot tau < 700, where gamma-dot tau is the shear rate scaled by the relaxation time tau of critical fluctuations. The measurements had a temperature resolution of 0.01 mK and were conducted in microgravity aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia to avoid the density stratification caused by Earth's gravity. The viscometer measured the drag on a delicate nickel screen as it oscillated in the xenon at amplitudes 3 mu,m < chi (sub 0) >430 mu, and frequencies 1 Hz < omega/2 pi < 5 Hz. To separate shear thinning from other nonlinearities, we computed the ratio of the viscous force on the screen at gamma-dot tau to the force at gamma-dot tau approximates 0: C(sub gamma) is identical with F(chi(sub 0), omega tau, gamma-dot tau )/F)(chi(sub 0, omega tau, 0). At low frequencies, (omega tau)(exp 2) < gamma-dot tau, C(sub gamma) depends only on gamma-dot tau, as predicted by dynamic critical scaling. At high frequencies, (omega tau)(exp 2) > gamma-dot tau, C(sub gamma) depends also on both x(sub 0) and omega. The data were compared with numerical calculations based on the Carreau-Yasuda relation for complex fluids: eta(gamma-dot)/eta(0)=[1+A(sub gamma)|gamma-dot tau|](exp - chi(sub eta)/3+chi(sub eta)), where chi(sub eta) =0.069 is the critical exponent for viscosity and mode-coupling theory predicts A(sub gamma) =0.121. For xenon we find A(sub gamma) =0.137 +/- 0.029, in agreement with the mode coupling value. Remarkably, the xenon data close to the critical temperature T(sub c) were independent of the cooling rate (both above and below T(sub c) and these data were symmetric about T(sub c) to within a temperature scale factor. The scale factors for the magnitude of the oscillator s response differed from those for the oscillator's phase; this suggests that the surface tension of the two-phase domains affected the drag on the screen below T(sub c).

Financial services employees' experience of peer-led and clinician-led critical incident stress debriefing following armed robberies.

PubMed

Simms-Ellis, R; Madill, A

2001-01-01

This study investigates financial services employees' experience of critical incident stress debriefing (CISD) and their views about peers and clinicians as facilitators. Semi-structured interview accounts of four participants who had experienced both peer-led and clinician-led CISD were analyzed using grounded theory. A core category, ambivalence, permeated each interview and divided into two poles: pathologizing and normalizing. The most frequently occurring sub-category was a dislike of professionalism. Participants preferred the peer debriefer who was perceived to have more personal involvement and with whom they felt more empowered and understood. The findings suggest that the status of the debriefer as 'peer' or 'clinician' may be a crucial variable in the effectiveness of CISD and should be considered when reviewing the outcome literature.

An experimental investigation on liquid methane heat transfer enhancement through the use of longitudinal fins in cooling channels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Galvan, Manuel de Jesus

In the past years, hydrocarbon fuels have been the focus of attention as the interest in developing reusable, high-performing liquid rocket engines has grown. Liquid methane (LCH4) has been of particular interest because of the cost, handling, and storage advantages that it presents when compared to currently used propellants. Deep space exploration requires thrusters that can operate reliably during long-duration missions. One of the challenges in the development of a reliable engine has been providing adequate combustion chamber cooling to prevent engine failure. Regenerative (regen) cooling has presented itself as an appealing option because it provides improved cooling and engine efficiency over other types of cooling, such as film or dump cooling. Due to limited availability of experimental sub-critical liquid methane cooling data for pressure-fed regen engine design, there has been an interest in studying the heat transfer characteristics of the propellant. For this reason, recent experimental studies at the Center for Space Exploration Technology Research (cSETR) at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) have focused on investigating the heat transfer characteristics of sub-critical CH4 flowing through smooth sub-scale cooling channels. In addition to investigating smooth channels, the cSETR has conducted experiments to investigate the effects of internal longitudinal fins on the heat transfer of methane. To conduct the experiments, the cSETR developed a conduction-based thermal concentrator known as the High Heat Flux Test Facility (HHFTF) in which the channels are heated. In this study, a smooth channel and three channels with longitudinal fins all with cross sectional geometries of 3.2 mm x 3.2 mm were tested. The Nusselt numbers ranged from 70 and 510, and Reynolds numbers were between 50,000 and 128,000. Sub-cooled film-boiling phenomena were discovered in the data pertaining to the smooth and two finned channels. Sub-cooled film-boiling was not observed in the channel that had the fins with the highest height. Film-boiling onset at Critical Heat Flux (CHF) was correlated to a Boiling Number (Bo) of approximately 0.1 for the channels studies. Convective Nusselt number follows predicted trends for Reynolds number with a wall temperature correction factor for both the boiling and non-boiling regimes.

Heat Capacity Anomaly Near the Lower Critical Consolute Point of Triethylamine-Water

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Flewelling, Anne C.; DeFonseka, Rohan J.; Khaleeli, Nikfar; Partee, J.; Jacobs, D. T.

1996-01-01

The heat capacity of the binary liquid mixture triethylamine-water has been measured near its lower critical consolute point using a scanning, adiabatic calorimeter. Two data runs are analyzed to provide heat capacity and enthalpy data that are fitted by equations with background terms and a critical term that includes correction to scaling. The critical exponent a was determined to be 0.107 +/- 0.006, consistent with theoretical predictions. When alpha was fixed at 0.11 to determine various amplitudes consistently, our values of A(+) and A(-) agreed with a previous heat capacity measurement, but the value of A(-) was inconsistent with values determined by density or refractive index measurements. While our value for the amplitude ratio A(+)/ A(-) = 0.56 +/- 0.02 was consistent with other recent experimental determinations in binary liquid mixtures, it was slightly larger than either theoretical predictions or recent experimental values in liquid-vapor systems. The correction to scaling amplitude ratio D(+)/D(-) = 0.5 +/- 0.1 was half of that predicted. As a result of several more precise theoretical calculations and experimental determinations, the two-scale-factor universality ratio X, which we found to be 0.019 +/- 0.003, now is consistent among experiments and theories. A new 'universal' amplitude ratio R(sup +/-)(sub Bcr) involving the amplitudes for the specific heat was tested. Our determination of R(sup +/-)(sub Bcr) = -0.5 +/- 0.1 and R(sup -)(sub Bcr) = 1.1 +/- 0.1 is smaller in magnitude than predicted and is the first such determination in a binary fluid mixture.

Partnership for sustainability in cardiac surgery to address critical rheumatic heart disease in sub-Saharan Africa: the experience from Rwanda.

PubMed

Swain, JaBaris D; Pugliese, Daniel N; Mucumbitsi, Joseph; Rusingiza, Emmanuel K; Ruhamya, Nathan; Kagame, Abel; Ganza, Gapira; Come, Patricia C; Breakey, Suellen; Greenwood, Bonnie; Muehlschlegel, Jochen D; Patton-Bolman, Cecilia; Binagwaho, Agnes; Morton Bolman, R

2014-09-01

Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) in the developing world results in critical disability among children, adolescents, and young adults-marginalizing a key population at its peak age of productivity. Few regions in sub-Saharan Africa have independently created an effective strategy to detect and treat streptococcal infection and mitigate its progression to RHD. We describe a unique collaboration, where the Rwanda Ministry of Health, the Rwanda Heart Foundation, and an expatriate humanitarian cardiac surgery program have together leveraged an innovative partnership as a means to expand Rwanda's current capacity to address screening and primary prevention, as well as provide life-saving cardiac surgery for patients with critical RHD. Interviews with key personnel and review of administrative records were conducted to obtain qualitative and quantitative data on the recruitment of clinical personnel, procurement of equipment, and program finances. The number of surgical cases completed and the resultant clinical outcomes are reviewed. From 2008 to 2013, six annual visits were completed. A total of 128 prosthetic valves have been implanted in 86 complex patients in New York Heart Association (NYHA) class III or IV heart failure, with excellent clinical outcomes (5 % 30-day mortality). Postoperative complications included a cerebrovascular accident (n = 1) and hemorrhage, requiring reoperation (n = 2). All procedures were performed with participation of local personnel. This strategy provides a reliable and consistent model of sophisticated specialty care delivery; inclusive of patient-centered cardiac surgery, mentorship, didactics, skill transfer, and investment in a sustainable cardiac program to address critical RHD in sub-Saharan Africa.

BAT AGN Spectroscopic Survey - III. An Observed Link Between AGN Eddington Ratio and Narrow-Emission-Line Ratios

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Oh, Kyuseok; Schawinski, Kevin; Koss, Michael; Trakhtenbrot, Benny; Lamperti, Isabella; Ricci, Claudio; Mushotzky, Richard; Veilleux, Sylvain; Berney, Simon; Crenshaw, D. Michael;

Development and validation of a critical gradient energetic particle driven Alfven eigenmode transport model for DIII-D tilted neutral beam experiments

DOE PAGES

Waltz, Ronald E.; Bass, Eric M.; Heidbrink, William W.; ...

2015-10-30

Recent experiments with the DIII-D tilted neutral beam injection (NBI) varying the beam energetic particle (EP) source profiles have provided strong evidence that unstable Alfven eigenmodes (AE) drive stiff EP transport at a critical EP density gradient. Here the critical gradient is identified by the local AE growth rate being equal to the local ITG/TEM growth rate at the same low toroidal mode number. The growth rates are taken from the gyrokinetic code GYRO. Simulation show that the slowing down beam-like EP distribution has a slightly lower critical gradient than the Maxwellian. The ALPHA EP density transport code, used tomore » validate the model, combines the low-n stiff EP critical density gradient AE mid-core transport with the energy independent high-n ITG/TEM density transport model controling the central core EP density profile. For the on-axis NBI heated DIII-D shot 146102, while the net loss to the edge is small, about half the birth fast ions are transported from the central core r/a < 0.5 and the central density is about half the slowing down density. Lastly, these results are in good agreement with experimental fast ion pressure profiles inferred from MSE constrained EFIT equilibria.« less

How ice shelf morphology controls basal melting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Little, Christopher M.; Gnanadesikan, Anand; Oppenheimer, Michael

2009-12-01

The response of ice shelf basal melting to climate is a function of ocean temperature, circulation, and mixing in the open ocean and the coupling of this external forcing to the sub-ice shelf circulation. Because slope strongly influences the properties of buoyancy-driven flow near the ice shelf base, ice shelf morphology plays a critical role in linking external, subsurface heat sources to the ice. In this paper, the slope-driven dynamic control of local and area-integrated melting rates is examined under a wide range of ocean temperatures and ice shelf shapes, with an emphasis on smaller, steeper ice shelves. A 3-D numerical ocean model is used to simulate the circulation underneath five idealized ice shelves, forced with subsurface ocean temperatures ranging from -2.0°C to 1.5°C. In the sub-ice shelf mixed layer, three spatially distinct dynamic regimes are present. Entrainment of heat occurs predominately under deeper sections of the ice shelf; local and area-integrated melting rates are most sensitive to changes in slope in this "initiation" region. Some entrained heat is advected upslope and used to melt ice in the "maintenance" region; however, flow convergence in the "outflow" region limits heat loss in flatter portions of the ice shelf. Heat flux to the ice exhibits (1) a spatially nonuniform, superlinear dependence on slope and (2) a shape- and temperature-dependent, internally controlled efficiency. Because the efficiency of heat flux through the mixed layer decreases with increasing ocean temperature, numerical simulations diverge from a simple quadratic scaling law.

Critical exponents of the disorder-driven superfluid-insulator transition in one-dimensional Bose-Einstein condensates

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

Cestari, J. C. C.; Foerster, A.; Gusmao, M. A.

2011-11-15

We investigate the nature of the superfluid-insulator quantum phase transition driven by disorder for noninteracting ultracold atoms on one-dimensional lattices. We consider two different cases: Anderson-type disorder, with local energies randomly distributed, and pseudodisorder due to a potential incommensurate with the lattice, which is usually called the Aubry-Andre model. A scaling analysis of numerical data for the superfluid fraction for different lattice sizes allows us to determine quantum critical exponents characterizing the disorder-driven superfluid-insulator transition. We also briefly discuss the effect of interactions close to the noninteracting quantum critical point of the Aubry-Andre model.

Some Thoughts on the Role of non-LTE Physics in ICF

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

Colvin, J. D.

An effort to develop sub-critical-density high-Z metal-doped and pure metal foams as laser-driven x-ray sources is described. The main idea is that the laser beams preferentially heat the electrons, and if the plasma is sufficiently low density so that the heating rate is greater than the equilibration rate via electron-ion collisions, then the electron temperature in the plasma is much greater than the ion temperature as long as the laser is on. In such a situation the plasma is not in local thermal equilibrium (LTE), it heats supersonically and volumetrically, and the conversion efficiency of laser beam energy to multi-keVmore » L-shell and K-shell radiation is much higher than what it would be in LTE plasma.« less

Titanium embedded cage structure formation in Al{sub n}Ti{sup +} clusters and their interaction with Ar

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

Torres, M. B., E-mail: begonia@ubu.es; Vega, A.; Balbás, L. C.

2014-05-07

Recently, Ar physisorption was used as a structural probe for the location of the Ti dopant atom in aluminium cluster cations, Al{sub n}Ti{sup +} [Lang et al., J. Am. Soc. Mass Spectrom. 22, 1508 (2011)]. As an experiment result, the lack of Ar complexes for n > n{sub c} determines the cluster size for which the Ti atom is located inside of an Al cage. To elucidate the decisive factors for the formation of endohedrally Al{sub n}Ti{sup +}, experimentalists proposed detailed computational studies as indispensable. In this work, we investigated, using the density functional theory, the structural and electronic propertiesmore » of singly titanium doped cationic clusters, Al{sub n}Ti{sup +} (n = 16–21) as well as the adsorption of an Ar atom on them. The first endohedral doped cluster, with Ti encapsulated in a fcc-like cage skeleton, appears at n{sub c} = 21, which is the critical number consistent with the exohedral-endohedral transition experimentally observed. At this critical size the non-crystalline icosahedral growth pattern, related to the pure aluminium clusters, with the Ti atom in the surface, changes into a endohedral fcc-like pattern. The map of structural isomers, relative energy differences, second energy differences, and structural parameters were determined and analyzed. Moreover, we show the critical size depends on the net charge of the cluster, being different for the cationic clusters (n{sub c} = 21) and their neutral counterparts (n{sub c} = 20). For the Al {sub n} Ti {sup +} · Ar complexes, and for n < 21, the preferred Ar adsorption site is on top of the exohedral Ti atom, with adsorption energy in very good agreement with the experimental value. Instead, for n = 21, the Ar adsorption occurs on the top an Al atom with very low absorption energy. For all sizes the geometry of the Al{sub n}Ti{sup +} clusters keeps unaltered in the Ar-cluster complexes. This fact indicates that Ar adsorption does not influence the cluster structure, providing support to the experimental technique used. For n{sub c} = 21, the smallest size of endohedral Ti doped cationic clusters, the Ar binding energy decreases drastically, whereas the Ar-cluster distance increases substantially, point to Ar physisorption, as assumed by the experimentalists. Calculated Ar adsorption energies agree well with available experimental binding energies.« less

Towards shot-noise limited diffraction experiments with table-top femtosecond hard x-ray sources.

PubMed

Holtz, Marcel; Hauf, Christoph; Weisshaupt, Jannick; Salvador, Antonio-Andres Hernandez; Woerner, Michael; Elsaesser, Thomas

2017-09-01

Table-top laser-driven hard x-ray sources with kilohertz repetition rates are an attractive alternative to large-scale accelerator-based systems and have found widespread applications in x-ray studies of ultrafast structural dynamics. Hard x-ray pulses of 100 fs duration have been generated at the Cu K α wavelength with a photon flux of up to 10 9 photons per pulse into the full solid angle, perfectly synchronized to the sub-100-fs optical pulses from the driving laser system. Based on spontaneous x-ray emission, such sources display a particular noise behavior which impacts the sensitivity of x-ray diffraction experiments. We present a detailed analysis of the photon statistics and temporal fluctuations of the x-ray flux, together with experimental strategies to optimize the sensitivity of optical pump/x-ray probe experiments. We demonstrate measurements close to the shot-noise limit of the x-ray source.

Rapid tuning shifts in human auditory cortex enhance speech intelligibility

PubMed Central

Holdgraf, Christopher R.; de Heer, Wendy; Pasley, Brian; Rieger, Jochem; Crone, Nathan; Lin, Jack J.; Knight, Robert T.; Theunissen, Frédéric E.

2016-01-01

Experience shapes our perception of the world on a moment-to-moment basis. This robust perceptual effect of experience parallels a change in the neural representation of stimulus features, though the nature of this representation and its plasticity are not well-understood. Spectrotemporal receptive field (STRF) mapping describes the neural response to acoustic features, and has been used to study contextual effects on auditory receptive fields in animal models. We performed a STRF plasticity analysis on electrophysiological data from recordings obtained directly from the human auditory cortex. Here, we report rapid, automatic plasticity of the spectrotemporal response of recorded neural ensembles, driven by previous experience with acoustic and linguistic information, and with a neurophysiological effect in the sub-second range. This plasticity reflects increased sensitivity to spectrotemporal features, enhancing the extraction of more speech-like features from a degraded stimulus and providing the physiological basis for the observed ‘perceptual enhancement' in understanding speech. PMID:27996965

Towards shot-noise limited diffraction experiments with table-top femtosecond hard x-ray sources

PubMed Central

Holtz, Marcel; Hauf, Christoph; Weisshaupt, Jannick; Salvador, Antonio-Andres Hernandez; Woerner, Michael; Elsaesser, Thomas

2017-01-01

Table-top laser-driven hard x-ray sources with kilohertz repetition rates are an attractive alternative to large-scale accelerator-based systems and have found widespread applications in x-ray studies of ultrafast structural dynamics. Hard x-ray pulses of 100 fs duration have been generated at the Cu Kα wavelength with a photon flux of up to 109 photons per pulse into the full solid angle, perfectly synchronized to the sub-100-fs optical pulses from the driving laser system. Based on spontaneous x-ray emission, such sources display a particular noise behavior which impacts the sensitivity of x-ray diffraction experiments. We present a detailed analysis of the photon statistics and temporal fluctuations of the x-ray flux, together with experimental strategies to optimize the sensitivity of optical pump/x-ray probe experiments. We demonstrate measurements close to the shot-noise limit of the x-ray source. PMID:28795079

Critical magnetic fields of superconducting aluminum-substituted Ba{sub 8}Si{sub 42}Al{sub 4} clathrate

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

Li, Yang, E-mail: yang.li@upr.edu; Garcia, Jose; Lu, Kejie

2015-06-07

In recent years, efforts have been made to explore the superconductivity of clathrates containing crystalline frameworks of group-IV elements. The superconducting silicon clathrate is unusual in that the structure is dominated by strong sp{sup 3} covalent bonds between silicon atoms, rather than the metallic bonding that is more typical of traditional superconductors. This paper reports on critical magnetic fields of superconducting Al-substituted silicon clathrates, which were investigated by transport, ac susceptibility, and dc magnetization measurements in magnetic fields up to 90 kOe. For the sample Ba{sub 8}Si{sub 42}Al{sub 4}, the critical magnetic fields were measured to be H{sub C1} = 40.2 Oe andmore » H{sub C2} = 66.4 kOe. The London penetration depth of 4360 Å and the coherence length 70 Å were obtained, whereas the estimated Ginzburg–Landau parameter of κ = 62 revealed that Ba{sub 8}Si{sub 42}Al{sub 4} is a strong type-II superconductor.« less

Universal current-velocity relation of skyrmion motion in chiral magnets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iwasaki, Junichi; Mochizuki, Masahito; Nagaosa, Naoto

2013-03-01

Current-driven motion of the magnetic domain wall requires large critical current density jc ~109 -1012 A/m2, at which the joule heating is a serious problem. The skyrmions recently discovered in chiral magnets, on the other hand, have much smaller critical current of jc ~105 -106 A/m2. We present a numerical simulation of the Landau-Lifshitz-Gilbert equation, which reveals a remarkably robust and universal current-velocity relation of the slyrmion motion driven by the spin transfer torque unaffected by either impurities or nonadiabatic effect in sharp contrast to the case of domain wall or spin helix (HL). Simulation results are analyzed using a theory based on Thiele's equation, and it is concluded that this surprising behavior is due to the Magnus force and flexible shape-deformation of individual skyrmions and skyrmion crystal (SkX), which enable them to avoid pinning centers and then weaken the net pinning force. Dynamical deformation of SkX leads to the fluctuation of Bragg peak with large amplitude, which can be detected by the recent neutron-scattering experiment.

Observation of parametric instabilities in the quarter critical density region driven by the Nike KrF laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weaver, J. L.; Oh, J.; Phillips, L.; Afeyan, B.; Seely, J.; Kehne, D.; Brown, C. M.; Obenschain, S. P.; Serlin, V.; Schmitt, A. J.; Feldman, U.; Lehmberg, R. H.; Mclean, E.; Manka, C.

2013-02-01

The krypton-fluoride (KrF) laser is an attractive choice for inertial confinement fusion due to its combination of short wavelength (λ =248 nm), large bandwidth (up to 3 THz), and superior beam smoothing by induced spatial incoherence. These qualities improve the overall hydrodynamics of directly driven pellet implosions and should allow use of increased laser intensity due to higher thresholds for laser plasma instabilities when compared to frequency tripled Nd:glass lasers (λ =351 nm). Here, we report the first observations of the two-plasmon decay instability using a KrF laser. The experiments utilized the Nike laser facility to irradiate solid plastic planar targets over a range of pulse lengths (0.35 ns≤τ≤1.25 ns) and intensities (up to 2×1015 W/cm2). Variation of the laser pulse created different combinations of electron temperature and electron density scale length. The observed onset of instability growth was consistent with the expected scaling that KrF lasers have a higher intensity threshold for instabilities in the quarter critical density region.

Criticality meets learning: Criticality signatures in a self-organizing recurrent neural network

PubMed Central

Del Papa, Bruno; Priesemann, Viola

2017-01-01

Many experiments have suggested that the brain operates close to a critical state, based on signatures of criticality such as power-law distributed neuronal avalanches. In neural network models, criticality is a dynamical state that maximizes information processing capacities, e.g. sensitivity to input, dynamical range and storage capacity, which makes it a favorable candidate state for brain function. Although models that self-organize towards a critical state have been proposed, the relation between criticality signatures and learning is still unclear. Here, we investigate signatures of criticality in a self-organizing recurrent neural network (SORN). Investigating criticality in the SORN is of particular interest because it has not been developed to show criticality. Instead, the SORN has been shown to exhibit spatio-temporal pattern learning through a combination of neural plasticity mechanisms and it reproduces a number of biological findings on neural variability and the statistics and fluctuations of synaptic efficacies. We show that, after a transient, the SORN spontaneously self-organizes into a dynamical state that shows criticality signatures comparable to those found in experiments. The plasticity mechanisms are necessary to attain that dynamical state, but not to maintain it. Furthermore, onset of external input transiently changes the slope of the avalanche distributions – matching recent experimental findings. Interestingly, the membrane noise level necessary for the occurrence of the criticality signatures reduces the model’s performance in simple learning tasks. Overall, our work shows that the biologically inspired plasticity and homeostasis mechanisms responsible for the SORN’s spatio-temporal learning abilities can give rise to criticality signatures in its activity when driven by random input, but these break down under the structured input of short repeating sequences. PMID:28552964

Marangoni Effects in the Boiling of Binary Fluid Mixtures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ahmed, Sayeed; Carey, Van P.; Motil, Brian

1996-01-01

Results of very recent experimental studies indicate that during nucleate boiling in some binary mixture, Marangoni effects augment the gravity driven flow of liquid towards the heated surface. With gravity present, it is impossible to separate the two effects. The reduced gravity environment gives an unique opportunity to explore th role of Marangoni effects on the boiling mechanisms free of gravitational body forces that obscure the role of such effects. However, recent experimental results suggest that under reduced gravity conditions, Marangoni effects is the dominant mechanism of vapor-liquid exchange at the surface for some binary mixture. To further explore such effects, experiments have been conducted with water/2-propanol mixtures at three different concentrations under normal gravity with different orientations of the heater surface and under reduce gravity aboard the DC-9 aircraft at NASA Lewis Research Center. The system pressure was sub atmospheric (approx. 8 kP at 1g(n)) and the bulk liquid temperature varied from low subcooling to near saturation. The molar concentrations of 2-propanol tested were 0.015, 0.025, and 0.1. Boiling curves were obtained both for high gravity (approx. 2g(n)) and reduce gravity (approx. 0.01g(n)). For each concentration of 2-propanol, the critical heat flux has been determined in the flight experiments only for reduced gravity conditions. Comparison of boiling curves and CHF obtained under l-g(n) an reduced gravity indicates that boiling mechanism in this mixtures is nearly independent of gravity. The results also indicate that the Marangoni mechanism is strong enough in these mixtures to sustain the boiling under reduced gravity conditions.

Instabilities and spin-up behaviour of a rotating magnetic field driven flow in a rectangular cavity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Galindo, V.; Nauber, R.; Räbiger, D.; Franke, S.; Beyer, H.; Büttner, L.; Czarske, J.; Eckert, S.

2017-11-01

This study presents numerical simulations and experiments considering the flow of an electrically conducting fluid inside a cube driven by a rotating magnetic field (RMF). The investigations are focused on the spin-up, where a liquid metal (GaInSn) is suddenly exposed to an azimuthal body force generated by the RMF and the subsequent flow development. The numerical simulations rely on a semi-analytical expression for the induced electromagnetic force density in an electrically conducting medium inside a cuboid container with insulating walls. Velocity distributions in two perpendicular planes are measured using a novel dual-plane, two-component ultrasound array Doppler velocimeter with continuous data streaming, enabling long term measurements for investigating transient flows. This approach allows identifying the main emerging flow modes during the transition from stable to unstable flow regimes with exponentially growing velocity oscillations using the Proper Orthogonal Decomposition method. Characteristic frequencies in the oscillating flow regimes are determined in the super critical range above the critical magnetic Taylor number T ac≈1.26 ×1 05, where the transition from the steady double vortex structure of the secondary flow to an unstable regime with exponentially growing oscillations is detected. The mean flow structures and the temporal evolution of the flow predicted by the numerical simulations and observed in experiments are in very good agreement.

Recent results of the OPERA experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pupilli, F.

2016-06-01

The OPERA experiment at the Gran Sasso underground laboratory has been designed to study the νµ → ντ oscillation in appearance mode in the CNGS neutrino beam. Five ντ candidate events have been confirmed so far, using a sub-sample of data from the 2008-2012 runs. Given the low background level, the discovery of νµ → ντ oscillations has been established with a significance of 5.1 σ. In this paper the data analysis is discussed, with emphasis on the background constraints obtained by using dedicated data-driven control samples. The analysis of the τ neutrino and electron neutrino data in the framework of the 3+1 sterile neutrino model are presented. The measurement of the muon charge ratio in the collected cosmic ray sample is also reported.

Size effect on multiferroic TbMn{sub 2}O{sub 5} nanorods

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

Yang, Chun-Chuen, E-mail: chunchuenyang@cycu.edu.tw; Tung, Yung-Hsiang; Hsu, Ting-Wei

2015-05-07

The effect of the size of TbMn{sub 2}O{sub 5} on their magnetoelectric properties is studied using a field emission transmission electron microscope, ac magnetic susceptibility, relative dielectric constant, specific heat capacity, and x-ray diffraction at various temperatures. A bulk sample and nanorods with two axial lengths, 〈L{sub C}〉, are investigated. Nanorods with 〈L{sub C}〉 of 216 nm and 64 nm crystallize with orthorhombic Pbam symmetry as the bulk material. The axial direction of the two sizes of nanorod is parallel to the c axis of the crystal. No particular radial direction is observed. The critical size for the magnetic ordering of TbMn{submore » 2}O{sub 5} is found to be between 〈L{sub C}〉 = 64 nm and 216 nm. Experiments on specific heat capacity verified these results. No similar phenomenon concerning the ferroelectric property is observed. At T = 30 K and 35 K, the 〈L{sub C}〉 = 216 nm sample yields a charge-ordering-like x-ray diffraction peak, which may be associated with the magnetically induced charge ordering superlattice.« less

Optical and mechanical response of high temperature optical fiber sensors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sirkis, Jim

1991-01-01

The National Aerospace Plane (NASP) will experience temperatures as high as 2500 F at critical locations in its structure. Optical fiber sensors were proposed as a means of monitoring the temperature in these critical regions by either bonding the optical fiber to, or embedding the optical fiber in, metal matrix composite (MMC) components. Unfortunately, the anticipated NASP temperature ranges exceed the glass transition region of the optical fiber glass. The attempt is made to define the operating temperature range of optical fiber sensors from both optical and mechanical perspectives. A full non-linear optical analysis was performed by modeling the optical response of an isolated sensor cyclically driven through the glass transition region.

Coherent optical transients observed in rubidium atomic line filtered Doppler velocimetry experiments

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

Fajardo, Mario E., E-mail: mario.fajardo@eglin.af.mil; Molek, Christopher D.; Vesely, Annamaria L.

2015-10-14

We report the first successful results from our novel Rubidium Atomic Line Filtered (RALF) Doppler velocimetry apparatus, along with unanticipated oscillatory signals due to coherent optical transients generated within pure Rb vapor cells. RALF is a high-velocity and high-acceleration extension of the well-known Doppler Global Velocimetry (DGV) technique for constructing multi-dimensional flow velocity vector maps in aerodynamics experiments [H. Komine, U.S. Patent No. 4,919,536 (24 April 1990)]. RALF exploits the frequency dependence of pressure-broadened Rb atom optical absorptions in a heated Rb/N{sub 2} gas cell to encode the Doppler shift of reflected near-resonant (λ{sub 0} ≈ 780.24 nm) laser light onto the intensitymore » transmitted by the cell. The present RALF apparatus combines fiber optic and free-space components and was built to determine suitable operating conditions and performance parameters for the Rb/N{sub 2} gas cells. It yields single-spot velocities of thin laser-driven-flyer test surfaces and incorporates a simultaneous Photonic Doppler Velocimetry (PDV) channel [Strand et al., Rev. Sci. Instrum. 77, 083108 (2006)] for validation of the RALF results, which we demonstrate here over the v = 0 to 1 km/s range. Both RALF and DGV presume the vapor cells to be simple Beer's Law optical absorbers, so we were quite surprised to observe oscillatory signals in experiments employing low pressure pure Rb vapor cells. We interpret these oscillations as interference between the Doppler shifted reflected light and the Free Induction Decay (FID) coherent optical transient produced within the pure Rb cells at the original laser frequency; this is confirmed by direct comparison of the PDV and FID signals. We attribute the different behaviors of the Rb/N{sub 2} vs. Rb gas cells to efficient dephasing of the atomic/optical coherences by Rb-N{sub 2} collisions. The minimum necessary N{sub 2} buffer gas density ≈0.3 amagat translates into a smallest useful velocity range of 0 to 2 km/s, which can readily be extended to cover the 0 to 10 km/s range, and beyond. The recognition that coherent optical transients can be produced within low pressure vapor cells during velocimetry experiments may offer new insights into some quantitative discrepancies reported in earlier DGV studies. Future plans include “line-RALF” experiments with streak camera detection, and two-dimensional surface velocity mapping using pulsed laser illumination and/or gated intensified CCD camera detection.« less

High pressure generation by hot electrons driven ablation

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

Piriz, A. R.; Piriz, S. A.; Tahir, N. A.

2013-11-15

A previous model [Piriz et al. Phys. Plasmas 19, 122705 (2012)] for the ablation driven by the hot electrons generated in collisionless laser-plasma interactions in the framework of shock ignition is revisited. The impact of recent results indicating that for a laser wavelength λ = 0.35 μm the hot electron temperature θ{sub H} would be independent of the laser intensity I, on the resulting ablation pressure is considered. In comparison with the case when the scaling law θ{sub H}∼(Iλ{sup 2}){sup 1/3} is assumed, the generation of the high pressures needed for driving the ignitor shock may be more demanding. Intensitiesmore » above 10{sup 17} W/cm{sup 2} would be required for θ{sub H}=25−30 keV.« less

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

Ritscher, A.; Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie, Hahn-Meitner-Platz 1, 14109 Berlin; Hoelzel, M.

In this work a series of stoichiometric Cu{sub 2}ZnSnS{sub 4} (CZTS) samples annealed at different temperatures in the range of 473–623 K were investigated. The temperature dependence of the Cu/Zn-order-disorder behavior was analyzed by neutron powder diffraction measurements. Cu fully occupies the 2a and Sn the 2b position within the whole temperature range. For Zn and the remaining Cu on sites 2d and 2c, a clear change from ordered to disordered kesterite structure is found. The critical temperature T{sub c} for this Landau-type second order transition was determined as 552±2 K. It was found that in Cu{sub 2}ZnSnS{sub 4} verymore » long annealing times are necessary to reach equilibrium at low temperatures. - Graphical abstract: The order-disorder transition in Cu{sub 2}ZnSnS{sub 4} was investigated using neutron diffraction techniques on samples annealed in the temperature range of 473–623 K. The critical temperature T{sub c} for this Landau-type second order transition was determined as 552±2 K. Display Omitted - Highlights: • The order-disorder transformation of Cu{sub 2}ZnSnS{sub 4} follows a Landau‐type behavior for a second order transition. • The critical exponent β is 0.57±0.06. • The critical temperature was determined as 552±2 K. • A fully ordered (within the standard deviation) Cu{sub 2}ZnSnS{sub 4} sample was synthesized.« less

An Attempt to Derive the epsilon Equation from a Two-Point Closure

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Canuto, V. M.; Cheng, Y.; Howard, A. M.

2010-01-01

The goal of this paper is to derive the equation for the turbulence dissipation rate epsilon for a shear-driven flow. In 1961, Davydov used a one-point closure model to derive the epsilon equation from first principles but the final result contained undetermined terms and thus lacked predictive power. Both in 1987 and in 2001, attempts were made to derive the epsilon equation from first principles using a two-point closure, but their methods relied on a phenomenological assumption. The standard practice has thus been to employ a heuristic form of the equation that contains three empirical ingredients: two constants, c(sub 1 epsilon), and c(sub 2 epsilon), and a diffusion term D(sub epsilon) In this work, a two-point closure is employed, yielding the following results: 1) the empirical constants get replaced by c(sub 1), c(sub 2), which are now functions of Kappa and epsilon; 2) c(sub 1) and c(sub 2) are not independent because a general relation between the two that are valid for any Kappa and epsilon are derived; 3) c(sub 1), c(sub 2) become constant with values close to the empirical values c(sub 1 epsilon), c(sub epsilon 2), (i.e., homogenous flows); and 4) the empirical form of the diffusion term D(sub epsilon) is no longer needed because it gets substituted by the Kappa-epsilon dependence of c(sub 1), c(sub 2), which plays the role of the diffusion, together with the diffusion of the turbulent kinetic energy D(sub Kappa), which now enters the new equation (i.e., inhomogeneous flows). Thus, the three empirical ingredients c(sub 1 epsilon), c(sub epsilon 2), D (sub epsilon)are replaced by a single function c(sub 1)(Kappa, epsilon ) or c(sub 2)(Kappa, epsilon ), plus a D(sub Kappa)term. Three tests of the new equation for epsilon are presented: one concerning channel flow and two concerning the shear-driven planetary boundary layer (PBL).

Mechanism of transfer of LDL-derived free cholesterol to HDL subfractions in human plasma

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

Miida, T.; Fielding, C.J.; Fielding, P.E.

1990-11-01

The transfer of ({sup 3}H)cholesterol in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) to different high-density lipoprotein (HDL) species in native human plasma was determined by using nondenaturing two-dimensional electrophoresis. Transfer from LDL had a t{sub 1/2} at 37{degree}C of 51 {plus minus} 8 min and an activation energy of 18.0 kCal mol{sup {minus}1}. There was unexpected specificity among HDL species as acceptors of LDL-derived labeled cholesterol. The largest fraction of the major {alpha}-migrating class (HDL{sub 2b}) was the major initial acceptor of LDL-derived cholesterol. Kinetic analysis indicated a rapid secondary transfer from HDL{sub 2b} to smaller {alpha}HDL (particularly HDL{sub 3}) driven enzymatically bymore » the lecithin-cholesterol acyltransferase reaction. Rates of transfer among {alpha}HDL were most rapid from the largest {alpha}HDL fraction (HDL{sub 2b}), suggesting possible protein-mediated facilitation. Simultaneous measurements of the transport of LDL-derived and cell-derived isotopic cholesterol indicated that the former preferably utilized the {alpha}HDL pathyway, with little label in pre-{beta}HDL. The same experiments confirmed earlier data that cell-derived cholesterol is preferentially channeled through pre-{beta}HDL. The authors suggest that the functional heterogeneity of HDL demonstrated here includes the ability to independently process cell- and LDL-derived free cholesterol.« less

Applications of High Intensity Proton Accelerators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raja, Rajendran; Mishra, Shekhar

2010-06-01

Superconducting radiofrequency linac development at Fermilab / S. D. Holmes -- Rare muon decay experiments / Y. Kuno -- Rare kaon decays / D. Bryman -- Muon collider / R. B. Palmer -- Neutrino factories / S. Geer -- ADS and its potential / J.-P. Revol -- ADS history in the USA / R. L. Sheffield and E. J. Pitcher -- Accelerator driven transmutation of waste: high power accelerator for the European ADS demonstrator / J. L. Biarrotte and T. Junquera -- Myrrha, technology development for the realisation of ADS in EU: current status & prospects for realisation / R. Fernandez ... [et al.] -- High intensity proton beam production with cyclotrons / J. Grillenberger and M. Seidel -- FFAG for high intensity proton accelerator / Y. Mori -- Kaon yields for 2 to 8 GeV proton beams / K. K. Gudima, N. V. Mokhov and S. I. Striganov -- Pion yield studies for proton driver beams of 2-8 GeV kinetic energy for stopped muon and low-energy muon decay experiments / S. I. Striganov -- J-Parc accelerator status and future plans / H. Kobayashi -- Simulation and verification of DPA in materials / N. V. Mokhov, I. L. Rakhno and S. I. Striganov -- Performance and operational experience of the CNGS facility / E. Gschwendtner -- Particle physics enabled with super-conducting RF technology - summary of working group 1 / D. Jaffe and R. Tschirhart -- Proton beam requirements for a neutrino factory and muon collider / M. S. Zisman -- Proton bunching options / R. B. Palmer -- CW SRF H linac as a proton driver for muon colliders and neutrino factories / M. Popovic, C. M. Ankenbrandt and R. P. Johnson -- Rapid cycling synchrotron option for Project X / W. Chou -- Linac-based proton driver for a neutrino factory / R. Garoby ... [et al.] -- Pion production for neutrino factories and muon colliders / N. V. Mokhov ... [et al.] -- Proton bunch compression strategies / V. Lebedev -- Accelerator test facility for muon collider and neutrino factory R&D / V. Shiltsev -- The superconducting RF linac for muon collider and neutrino factory - summary of working group 2 / J. Galambos, R. Garoby and S. Geer -- Prospects for a very high power CW SRF linac / R. A. Rimmer -- Indian accelerator program for ADS applications / V. C. Sahni and P. Singh -- Ion accelerator activities at VECC (particularly, operating at low temperature) / R. K. Bhandari -- Chinese efforts in high intensity proton accelerators / S. Fu, J. Wang and S. Fang -- ADSR activity in the UK / R. J. Barlow -- ADS development in Japan / K. Kikuchi -- Project-X, SRF, and very large power stations / C. M. Ankenbrandt, R. P. Johnson and M. Popovic -- Power production and ADS / R. Raja -- Experimental neutron source facility based on accelerator driven system / Y. Gohar -- Transmutation mission / W. S. Yang -- Safety performance and issues / J. E. Cahalan -- Spallation target design for accelerator-driven systems / Y. Gohar -- Design considerations for accelerator transmutation of waste system / W. S. Yang -- Japan ADS program / T. Sasa -- Overview of members states' and IAEA activities in the field of Accelerator Driven Systems (ADS) / A. Stanculescu -- Linac for ADS applications - accelerator technologies / R. W. Garnett and R. L. Sheffield -- SRF linacs and accelerator driven sub-critical systems - summary working groups 3 & 4 / J. Delayen -- Production of Actinium-225 via high energy proton induced spallation of Thorium-232 / J. Harvey ... [et al.] -- Search for the electric dipole moment of Radium-225 / R. J. Holt, Z.-T. Lu and R. Mueller -- SRF linac and material science and medicine - summary of working group 5 / J. Nolen, E. Pitcher and H. Kirk.

Coherent generation of the auroral kilometric radiation by nonlinear beatings between electrostatic waves

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

Pellat, R.; Roux, A.

1979-09-01

The propagation of electrostatic plasma waves in an inhomogeneous and magnetized plasma is studied analytically. These waves, which are driven unstable by auroral beams of electrons, are shown to suffer a further geometrical amplification while they propagate toward cut-off. Simultaneously their group velocities tend to be aligned with the geomagnetic field. Then it is shown that the electrostatic energy tends to accumulate at or near ..omega../sub L/H and ..omega../sub U/H, the local lower and upper hybrid frequencies. Due to this process, large amplitude electrostatic waves with very narrow spectra should be observed near these frequencies at any place along themore » auroral field lines where intense beam driven instability takes place. These intense quasi-monochromatic electrostatic waves are then shown to give rise by a coherent nonlinear three wave process to an intense electromagnetic radiation. Provided that the ratio ..omega../sub p/e/..omega../sub c/e tends to be smaller than unity, it is shown that the most intense radiation should be observed at 2..omega../sub U/H in the extraordinary mode.« less

Transient many-body instability in driven Dirac materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pertsova, Anna; Triola, Christopher; Balatsky, Alexander

The defining feature of a Dirac material (DM) is the presence of nodes in the low-energy excitation spectrum leading to a strong energy dependence of the density of states (DOS). The vanishing of the DOS at the nodal point implies a very low effective coupling constant which leads to stability of the node against electron-electron interactions. Non-equilibrium or driven DM, in which the DOS and hence the effective coupling can be controlled by external drive, offer a new platform for investigating collective instabilities. In this work, we discuss the possibility of realizing transient collective states in driven DMs. Motivated by recent pump-probe experiments which demonstrate the existence of long-lived photo-excited states in DMs, we consider an example of a transient excitonic instability in an optically-pumped DM. We identify experimental signatures of the transient excitonic condensate and provide estimates of the critical temperatures and lifetimes of these states for few important examples of DMs, such as single-layer graphene and topological-insulator surfaces.

Supersaturated Electrolyte Solutions: Theory and Experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Izmailov, Alexander F.; Myerson, Allan S.; Na, Han-Soo

1995-01-01

Highly supersaturated electrolyte solutions can be prepared and studied employing an electrodynamic levitator trap (ELT) technique. The ELT technique involves containerless suspension of a microdroplet thus eliminating dust, dirt, and container walls which normally cause heterogeneous nucleation. This allows very high supersaturations to be achieved. A theoretical study of the experimental results obtained for the water activity in microdroplets of various electrolyte solutions is based on the development of the Cahn-Hilliard formalism for electrolyte solutions. In the approach suggested the metastable state for electrolyte solutions is described in terms of the conserved order parameter omega(r,t) associated with fluctuations of the mean solute concentration n(sub 0). Parameters of the corresponding Ginzburg-Landau free energy functional which defines the dynamics of metastable state relaxation are determined and expressed through the experimentally measured quantities. A correspondence of 96-99 % between theory and experiment for all solutions studied was achieved and allowed the determination of an analytical expression for the spinodal concentration n(sub spin), and its calculation for various electrolyte solutions at 298 K. The assumption that subcritical solute clusters consist of the electrically neutral Bjerrum pairs has allowed both analytical and numerical investigation of the number-size N(sub c) of nucleation monomers (aggregates of the Bjerrum pairs) which are elementary units of the solute critical clusters. This has also allowed estimations for the surface tension Alpha, and equilibrium bulk energy Beta per solute molecule in the nucleation monomers. The dependence of these properties on the temperature T and on the solute concentration n(sub 0) through the entire metastable zone (from saturation concentration n(sub sat) to spinodal n(sub spin) is examined. It has been demonstrated that there are the following asymptotics: N(sub c), = I at spinodal concentration and N(sub c) = infinity at saturation.

Phenomenology of beam driven modes in the field reversed configuration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Magee, Richard; Bolte, Nathan; Clary, Ryan; Necas, Ales; Korepanov, Sergey; Smirnov, Artem; Thompson, Matthew; Tajima, Toshiki; THE TAE Team

2016-10-01

The C-2U experiment offers a unique plasma environment combining a high beta field reversed configuration (FRC) embedded in a low beta magnetic mirror with high power neutral beam injection. The beams are injected tangentially into a modest magnetic field so that the orbits of the resulting fast ions encircle the entire plasma. These large orbit particles sustain and stabilize the plasma and suppress turbulence. Measurements of magnetic fluctuations at the edge of the plasma reveal the presence of three coherent beam driven modes: a low frequency, chirping mode, a mode near the ion cyclotron frequency, and a high frequency compressional Alfven mode. Remarkably, none of these modes are observed to have a deleterious effect on global plasma confinement. In fact, the cyclotron mode has the beneficial effect of dramatically enhancing the DD fusion reaction rate by drawing a trail from the plasma ion energy distribution on a sub-collisional timescale. In this presentation, we experimentally characterize the beam driven modes in the C-2U FRC with data from multiple diagnostics including magnetics, spectroscopy, neutral particle analyzers and fusion product diagnostics. Results are compared to a particle-in-cell simulation in a simplified geometry.

Effect of Sub- and Super-critical Water Treatment on Physicochemical Properties of Porcine Skin

PubMed Central

2015-01-01

Super- and sub-critical water treatments have been of interest as novel methods for protein hydrolysis. In the present study, we studied the effect of sub-critical water (Sub-H2O, 300℃, 80 bar) treatment as well as super-critical water (Super-H2O, 400℃, 280 bar) treatment on the physicochemical properties of porcine skin (PS), which has abundant collagen. Porcine skin was subjected to pre-thermal treatment by immersion in water at 70℃, and then treated with sub- or super-critical water. Physicochemical properties of the hydrolysates, such as molecular weight distribution, free amino acid content, amino acid profile, pH, color, and water content were determined. For the molecular weight distribution analysis, 1 kDa hydrolyzed porcine skin (H-PS) was produced by Super-H2O or Sub-H2O treatment. The free amino acid content was 57.18 mM and 30.13 mM after Sub-H2O and Super-H2O treatment, respectively. Determination of amino acid profile revealed that the content of Glu (22.5%) and Pro (30%) was higher after Super-H2O treatment than after Sub-H2O treatment, whereas the content of Gly (28%) and Ala (13.1%) was higher after Sub-H2O treatment. Super-H2O or Sub-H2O treatment affected the pH of PS, which changed from 7.29 (Raw) to 9.22 (after Sub-H2O treatment) and 9.49 (after Super-H2O treatment). Taken together, these results showed that Sub-H2O treatment was slightly more effective for hydrolysis than Super-H2O was. However, both Sub-H2O and Super-H2O treatments were effective processing methods for hydrolysis of PS collagen in a short time and can be regarded as a green chemistry technology. PMID:26761798

Effect of Sub- and Super-critical Water Treatment on Physicochemical Properties of Porcine Skin.

PubMed

Jo, Yeon-Ji; Kim, Jae-Hyeong; Jung, Kyung-Hun; Min, Sang-Gi; Chun, Ji-Yeon

2015-01-01

Super- and sub-critical water treatments have been of interest as novel methods for protein hydrolysis. In the present study, we studied the effect of sub-critical water (Sub-H2O, 300℃, 80 bar) treatment as well as super-critical water (Super-H2O, 400℃, 280 bar) treatment on the physicochemical properties of porcine skin (PS), which has abundant collagen. Porcine skin was subjected to pre-thermal treatment by immersion in water at 70℃, and then treated with sub- or super-critical water. Physicochemical properties of the hydrolysates, such as molecular weight distribution, free amino acid content, amino acid profile, pH, color, and water content were determined. For the molecular weight distribution analysis, 1 kDa hydrolyzed porcine skin (H-PS) was produced by Super-H2O or Sub-H2O treatment. The free amino acid content was 57.18 mM and 30.13 mM after Sub-H2O and Super-H2O treatment, respectively. Determination of amino acid profile revealed that the content of Glu (22.5%) and Pro (30%) was higher after Super-H2O treatment than after Sub-H2O treatment, whereas the content of Gly (28%) and Ala (13.1%) was higher after Sub-H2O treatment. Super-H2O or Sub-H2O treatment affected the pH of PS, which changed from 7.29 (Raw) to 9.22 (after Sub-H2O treatment) and 9.49 (after Super-H2O treatment). Taken together, these results showed that Sub-H2O treatment was slightly more effective for hydrolysis than Super-H2O was. However, both Sub-H2O and Super-H2O treatments were effective processing methods for hydrolysis of PS collagen in a short time and can be regarded as a green chemistry technology.

Extreme weather events and infectious disease outbreaks.

PubMed

McMichael, Anthony J

2015-01-01

Human-driven climatic changes will fundamentally influence patterns of human health, including infectious disease clusters and epidemics following extreme weather events. Extreme weather events are projected to increase further with the advance of human-driven climate change. Both recent and historical experiences indicate that infectious disease outbreaks very often follow extreme weather events, as microbes, vectors and reservoir animal hosts exploit the disrupted social and environmental conditions of extreme weather events. This review article examines infectious disease risks associated with extreme weather events; it draws on recent experiences including Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and the 2010 Pakistan mega-floods, and historical examples from previous centuries of epidemics and 'pestilence' associated with extreme weather disasters and climatic changes. A fuller understanding of climatic change, the precursors and triggers of extreme weather events and health consequences is needed in order to anticipate and respond to the infectious disease risks associated with human-driven climate change. Post-event risks to human health can be constrained, nonetheless, by reducing background rates of persistent infection, preparatory action such as coordinated disease surveillance and vaccination coverage, and strengthened disaster response. In the face of changing climate and weather conditions, it is critically important to think in ecological terms about the determinants of health, disease and death in human populations.

Laser-driven injector of electrons for IOTA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Romanov, Aleksandr

2017-03-01

Fermilab is developing the Integrable Optics Test Accelerator (IOTA) ring for experiments on nonlinear integrable optics. The machine will operate with either electron beams of 150 MeV or proton beams of 2.5 MeV energies, respectively. The stability of integrable optics depends critically on the precision of the magnetic lattice, which demands the use of beam-based lattice measurements for optics correction. In the proton mode, the low-energy proton beam does not represent a good probe for this application; hence we consider the use of a low-intensity reverse-injected electron beam of matched momentum (70 MeV). Such an injector could be implemented with the use of laser-driven acceleration techniques. This report presents the consideration for a laser-plasma injector for IOTA and discusses the requirements determined by the ring design.

INSTABILITIES DRIVEN BY THE DRIFT AND TEMPERATURE ANISOTROPY OF ALPHA PARTICLES IN THE SOLAR WIND

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

Verscharen, Daniel; Bourouaine, Sofiane; Chandran, Benjamin D. G., E-mail: daniel.verscharen@unh.edu, E-mail: s.bourouaine@unh.edu, E-mail: benjamin.chandran@unh.edu

2013-08-20

We investigate the conditions under which parallel-propagating Alfven/ion-cyclotron (A/IC) waves and fast-magnetosonic/whistler (FM/W) waves are driven unstable by the differential flow and temperature anisotropy of alpha particles in the solar wind. We focus on the limit in which w{sub Parallel-To {alpha}} {approx}> 0.25v{sub A}, where w{sub Parallel-To {alpha}} is the parallel alpha-particle thermal speed and v{sub A} is the Alfven speed. We derive analytic expressions for the instability thresholds of these waves, which show, e.g., how the minimum unstable alpha-particle beam speed depends upon w{sub Parallel-To {alpha}}/v{sub A}, the degree of alpha-particle temperature anisotropy, and the alpha-to-proton temperature ratio. Wemore » validate our analytical results using numerical solutions to the full hot-plasma dispersion relation. Consistent with previous work, we find that temperature anisotropy allows A/IC waves and FM/W waves to become unstable at significantly lower values of the alpha-particle beam speed U{sub {alpha}} than in the isotropic-temperature case. Likewise, differential flow lowers the minimum temperature anisotropy needed to excite A/IC or FM/W waves relative to the case in which U{sub {alpha}} = 0. We discuss the relevance of our results to alpha particles in the solar wind near 1 AU.« less

Theory of flux cutting and flux transport at the critical current of a type-II superconducting cylindrical wire

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

Clem, John R

2011-02-17

I introduce a critical-state theory incorporating both flux cutting and flux transport to calculate the magnetic-field and current-density distributions inside a type-II superconducting cylinder at its critical current in a longitudinal applied magnetic field. The theory is an extension of the elliptic critical-state model introduced by Romero-Salazar and Pérez-Rodríguez. The vortex dynamics depend in detail on two nonlinear effective resistivities for flux cutting (ρ{sub ∥}) and flux flow (ρ{sub ⊥}), and their ratio r=ρ{sub ∥}/ρ{sub ⊥}. When r<1, the low relative efficiency of flux cutting in reducing the magnitude of the internal magnetic-flux density leads to a paramagnetic longitudinal magneticmore » moment. As a model for understanding the experimentally observed interrelationship between the critical currents for flux cutting and depinning, I calculate the forces on a helical vortex arc stretched between two pinning centers when the vortex is subjected to a current density of arbitrary angle Φ. Simultaneous initiation of flux cutting and flux transport occurs at the critical current density J{sub c}(Φ) that makes the vortex arc unstable.« less

Size effects of primary/secondary twins on the atomistic deformation mechanisms in hierarchically nanotwinned metals

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

Yuan, Fuping; Wu, Xiaolei

2013-05-28

A series of large-scale molecular dynamics simulations have been performed to investigate the tensile properties of nanotwinned (NT) copper with hierarchically twinned structures (HTS). For the same grain size d and the same spacing of primary twins {lambda}{sub 1}, the average flow stress first increases as the spacing of secondary twins {lambda}{sub 2} decreases, reaching a maximum at a critical {lambda}{sub 2}, and then decreases as {lambda}{sub 2} becomes even smaller. The smaller the spacing for {lambda}{sub 1}, the smaller the critical spacing for {lambda}{sub 2}. There exists a transition in dominating deformation mechanisms, occurring at a critical spacing ofmore » {lambda}{sub 2} for which strength is maximized. Above the critical spacing of {lambda}{sub 2}, the deformation mechanisms are dominated by the two Hall-Petch type strengthening mechanisms: (a) partial dislocations emitted from grain boundaries (GBs) travel across other GBs and twin boundaries (TBs); (b) partial dislocations emitted from TBs travel across other TBs. Below the critical spacing of {lambda}{sub 2}, the deformation mechanism is dominated by the two softening mechanisms: (a) Partial dislocations emitted from boundaries of the primary twins travel parallel to the TBs of the secondary twins, leading to detwinning of the secondary twins; (b) Boundaries of the primary twins shift entirely, leading to thickening in one part of primary twins and thinning in the other part of primary twins. The present results should provide insights to design the microstructures for reinforcing the mechanical properties in the NT metals with HTS.« less

Hydrologic and Undernourisment Trends In Food Insecurity Hotspots

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Funk, C. C.; Mishra, V.; Davenport, F.

2011-12-01

As food prices rise, per capita harvested area diminishes and competition for limited resources mounts, the number of undernourished people has risen to more than a billion people. In this study, we target 80 potentially food insecure countries, examining hydrologic and undernourishment trends. For each country, primary cultivation areas are identified, and hydrologic variables extracted from simulations based on the Variable Infiltration Capacity model driven with the Princeton University climate data. Trends in runoff, soil moisture, precipitation, evapotranspiration, and temperature are evaluated. In addition to precipitation driven-aridity, the analysis also evaluates possible temperature-related shifts in sensible versus latent heat fluxes during energy-limited portions of the growing seasons. Changes in the timing and magnitude of streamflow are also investigated. The undernourishment trends are explored using the FAO percent under-nourished formulation, which determines the fraction of the population falling below a critical caloric threshold by using national food balance sheets (quantity) and a caloric distribution based on economic equality. Trends in quantity and equity, and their effects on undernourishment are evaluated, and vulnerability to price volatility quantified. Finally, a sub-set of countries facing both hydrologic declines and undernourishment increases are identified as food security hotspots.

Urban flood simulation and prioritization of critical urban sub-catchments using SWMM model and PROMETHEE II approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Babaei, Sahar; Ghazavi, Reza; Erfanian, Mahdi

2018-06-01

Urban runoff increased due to augment of impervious surfaces. In order to flood mitigation during rainy season, determination of critical urban sub-catchments is very important for urban planners. Due to lack of information, adopting a simulation approach is one of the practical ways to identify the surcharged junctions and critical sub-catchments. Occurrence of destructive floods in the rainy seasons indicates the inappropriateness of the urban drainage system in Urmia. The main aims of this study were to estimate the surface runoff of urban sub-catchments using SWMM, to evaluate the accuracy of the drainage system of the study urban area and to prioritize sub-catchments using PROMETHEE II approach and SWMM. In the present study, the occurrence of rainfall event of the Urmia city (West Azerbaijan province, Iran) used for estimation of runoff depth. The study area was divided into 22 sub-catchments. For calibration and validation of model parameters, 3 rainfall events and their related runoff were measured. According to sensitivity analysis CN was the most sensitive parameter for model calibration. Amount of surcharged conduits and junctions indicates that the drainage system of the study area has not enough capacity for converting of the runoff and. For 10 year return period, depth of channels should increase by 20% for prevention of flooding in these sub-catchments. Sub-catchments were prioritized using PROMETHEE II approach and its results were compared with SWMM simulation outcomes. Based on SWMM simulation, S11, S7, S18, S16 and S1 sub-catchments are more critical sub-catchments respectively, while according to PROMETHEE method, S1, S11, S16, S14 and S18 are determined as the critical areas.

The influence of different diffusion pattern to the sub- and super-critical fluid flow in brown coal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peng, Peihuo

2018-03-01

Sub- and super-critical CO2 flowing in nanoscale pores are recently becoming of great interest due to that it is closely related to many engineering applications, such as geological burial and sequestration of carbon dioxide, Enhanced Coal Bed Methane recovery ( ECBM), super-critical CO2 fracturing and so on. Gas flow in nanopores cannot be described simply by the Darcy equation. Different diffusion pattern such as Fick diffusion, Knudsen diffusion, transitional diffusion and slip flow at the solid matrix separate the seepage behaviour from Darcy-type flow. According to the principle of different diffusion pattern, the flow of sub- and super-critical CO2 in brown coal was simulated by numerical method, and the results were compared with the experimental results to explore the contribution of different diffusion pattern and swelling effect in sub- and super-critical CO2 flow in nanoscale pores.

Doping effect of nano-Ho{sub 2}O{sub 3} and naphthalene in MgB{sub 2} superconductor prepared by powder-in-sealed-tube method

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

Hansdah, J. S.; Sarun, P. M., E-mail: sarun.res@gmail.com

2015-03-21

The effect on crystal structure, critical temperature (T{sub C}), and critical current density (J{sub C}) of bulk MgB{sub 2} doped with nano-Ho{sub 2}O{sub 3} and naphthalene was studied. Among all the samples studied, the sample doped with 2.5 wt. % nano-Ho{sub 2}O{sub 3} have shown the best field dependent critical current density [J{sub C}(H)], i.e., 0.77 × 10{sup 5 }A/cm{sup 2} at 2 T and 10 K. While naphthalene doped MgB{sub 2} sample has shown the least J{sub C}(H) characteristics. The improved J{sub C}(H) characteristics in the nano-Ho{sub 2}O{sub 3} doped MgB{sub 2} samples are attributed to improved flux pinning properties due to the formation ofmore » HoB{sub 4} and in naphthalene doped MgB{sub 2} samples. The slight lower T{sub C} value (37.01 K) in naphthalene doped samples is attributed to the occurrence of lattice defect by the substitution of carbon at boron site of MgB{sub 2} superconductor. Lower ΔT{sub C} value implies the lesser anisotropy in all the synthesized samples. The flux pinning force density (F{sub P}/F{sub Pmax}) curves are theoretically analyzed using Dew-Hughes model. The result revealed that point pinning is the dominant pinning mechanism for nano-Ho{sub 2}O{sub 3} doped MgB{sub 2} samples, while, surface and grain boundary pinning become dominant with increasing naphthalene addition in nano-Ho{sub 2}O{sub 3} doped MgB{sub 2} samples.« less

Improvement of critical current density in thallium-based (Tl,Bi)Sr{sub 1.6}Ba{sub 0.4}Ca{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub x} superconductors

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

Ren, Z.F.; Wang, C.A.; Wang, J.H.

1994-12-31

Epitaxial (Tl,Bi)Sr{sub 1.6}Ba{sub 0.4}Ca{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub x} (Tl,Bi)-1223 thin films on (100) single crystal LaAlO{sub 3} substrates were synthesized by a two-step procedure. Phase development, microstructure, and relationships between film and substrate were studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Resistance versus temperature, zero-field-cooled and field-cooled magnetization, and transport critical current density (J{sub c}) were measured. The zero-resistance temperature was 105-111 K. J{sub c} at 77 K and zero field was > 2 x 10{sup 6} A/cm{sup 2}. The films exhibited good flux pinning properties.

Improved transfer efficiencies in radio-frequency-driven recoupling solid-state NMR by adiabatic sweep through the dipolar recoupling condition

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

Straasø, Lasse A.; Shankar, Ravi; Nielsen, Niels Chr.

The homonuclear radio-frequency driven recoupling (RFDR) experiment is commonly used in solid-state NMR spectroscopy to gain insight into the structure of biological samples due to its ease of implementation, stability towards fluctuations/missetting of radio-frequency (rf) field strength, and in general low rf requirements. A theoretical operator-based Floquet description is presented to appreciate the effect of having a temporal displacement of the π-pulses in the RFDR experiment. From this description, we demonstrate improved transfer efficiency for the RFDR experiment by generating an adiabatic passage through the zero-quantum recoupling condition. We have compared the performances of RFDR and the improved sequence tomore » mediate efficient {sup 13}CO to {sup 13}C{sub α} polarization transfer for uniformly {sup 13}C,{sup 15}N-labeled glycine and for the fibril forming peptide SNNFGAILSS (one-letter amino acid codes) uniformly {sup 13}C,{sup 15}N-labeled at the FGAIL residues. Using numerically optimized sweeps, we get experimental gains of approximately 20% for glycine where numerical simulations predict an improvement of 25% relative to the standard implementation. For the fibril forming peptide, using the same sweep parameters as found for glycine, we have gains in the order of 10%–20% depending on the spectral regions of interest.« less

Microgravity Research: A Retrospective of Accomplishments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Voorhees, Peter

2005-03-01

During the early days of human spaceflight U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) began giving researchers the ability to perform experiments under extremely low gravity conditions (microgravity). Early microgravity experiments were rudimentary and discovery driven. The limitations of such an approach were clear and in the early 1990s, NASA broadened its program significantly beyond those experiments that were destined to be flown to include a ground- based program that contained both experimental and theoretical investigations. The ground-based program provided a source of carefully designed microgravity experiments. This led to the program in the Physical Sciences Division that involved research in, for example, fluids, materials and low temperature physics. The impact of the microgravity research program has been the focus of a recent National Research Council report titled “Assessment of Directions in Microgravity and Physical Sciences Research at NASA.” We found that there have been numerous high impact ground-based and flight investigations. For example, NASA funding has been instrumental in elucidating the nature of surface-tension-driven fluid flows, dendritic crystal growth and the thermodynamics of phase transitions near critical points. Using this report as a basis, a discussion of the impact of microgravity research on the fields in which it is a part will be given.

Predicting critical temperatures of iron(II) spin crossover materials: Density functional theory plus U approach

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

Zhang, Yachao, E-mail: yczhang@nano.gznc.edu.cn

2014-12-07

A first-principles study of critical temperatures (T{sub c}) of spin crossover (SCO) materials requires accurate description of the strongly correlated 3d electrons as well as much computational effort. This task is still a challenge for the widely used local density or generalized gradient approximations (LDA/GGA) and hybrid functionals. One remedy, termed density functional theory plus U (DFT+U) approach, introduces a Hubbard U term to deal with the localized electrons at marginal computational cost, while treats the delocalized electrons with LDA/GGA. Here, we employ the DFT+U approach to investigate the T{sub c} of a pair of iron(II) SCO molecular crystals (αmore » and β phase), where identical constituent molecules are packed in different ways. We first calculate the adiabatic high spin-low spin energy splitting ΔE{sub HL} and molecular vibrational frequencies in both spin states, then obtain the temperature dependent enthalpy and entropy changes (ΔH and ΔS), and finally extract T{sub c} by exploiting the ΔH/T − T and ΔS − T relationships. The results are in agreement with experiment. Analysis of geometries and electronic structures shows that the local ligand field in the α phase is slightly weakened by the H-bondings involving the ligand atoms and the specific crystal packing style. We find that this effect is largely responsible for the difference in T{sub c} of the two phases. This study shows the applicability of the DFT+U approach for predicting T{sub c} of SCO materials, and provides a clear insight into the subtle influence of the crystal packing effects on SCO behavior.« less

Combining environment-driven adaptation and task-driven optimisation in evolutionary robotics.

PubMed

Haasdijk, Evert; Bredeche, Nicolas; Eiben, A E

2014-01-01

Embodied evolutionary robotics is a sub-field of evolutionary robotics that employs evolutionary algorithms on the robotic hardware itself, during the operational period, i.e., in an on-line fashion. This enables robotic systems that continuously adapt, and are therefore capable of (re-)adjusting themselves to previously unknown or dynamically changing conditions autonomously, without human oversight. This paper addresses one of the major challenges that such systems face, viz. that the robots must satisfy two sets of requirements. Firstly, they must continue to operate reliably in their environment (viability), and secondly they must competently perform user-specified tasks (usefulness). The solution we propose exploits the fact that evolutionary methods have two basic selection mechanisms-survivor selection and parent selection. This allows evolution to tackle the two sets of requirements separately: survivor selection is driven by the environment and parent selection is based on task-performance. This idea is elaborated in the Multi-Objective aNd open-Ended Evolution (monee) framework, which we experimentally validate. Experiments with robotic swarms of 100 simulated e-pucks show that monee does indeed promote task-driven behaviour without compromising environmental adaptation. We also investigate an extension of the parent selection process with a 'market mechanism' that can ensure equitable distribution of effort over multiple tasks, a particularly pressing issue if the environment promotes specialisation in single tasks.

THERMALLY DRIVEN ATMOSPHERIC ESCAPE: TRANSITION FROM HYDRODYNAMIC TO JEANS ESCAPE

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

Volkov, Alexey N.; Johnson, Robert E.; Tucker, Orenthal J.

2011-03-10

Thermally driven escape from planetary atmospheres changes in nature from an organized outflow (hydrodynamic escape) to escape on a molecule-by-molecule basis (Jeans escape) with increasing Jeans parameter, {lambda}, the ratio of the gravitational to thermal energy of the atmospheric molecules. This change is described here for the first time using the direct simulation Monte Carlo method. When heating is predominantly below the lower boundary of the simulation region, R{sub 0}, and well below the exobase of a single-component atmosphere, the nature of the escape process changes over a surprisingly narrow range of Jeans parameters, {lambda}{sub 0}, evaluated at R{sub 0}.more » For an atomic gas, the transition occurs over {lambda}{sub 0} {approx} 2-3, where the lower bound, {lambda}{sub 0} {approx} 2.1, corresponds to the upper limit for isentropic, supersonic outflow. For {lambda}{sub 0} > 3 escape occurs on a molecule-by-molecule basis and we show that, contrary to earlier suggestions, for {lambda}{sub 0} > {approx}6 the escape rate does not deviate significantly from the familiar Jeans rate. In a gas composed of diatomic molecules, the transition shifts to {lambda}{sub 0} {approx} 2.4-3.6 and at {lambda}{sub 0} > {approx}4 the escape rate increases a few tens of percent over that for the monatomic gas. Scaling by the Jeans parameter and the Knudsen number, these results can be applied to thermally induced escape of the major species from solar and extrasolar planets.« less

Experiments in a flighted conveyor comparing shear rates in compressed versus free surface flows

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pohlman, Nicholas; Higgins, Hannah; Krupiarz, Kamila; O'Connor, Ryan

2017-11-01

Uniformity of granular flow rate is critical in industry. Experiments in a flighted conveyor system aim to fill a gap in knowledge of achieving steady mass flow rate by correlating velocity profile data with mass flow rate measurements. High speed images were collected for uniformly-shaped particles in a bottom-driven flow conveyor belt system from which the velocity profiles can be generated. The correlation of mass flow rates from the velocity profiles to the time-dependent mass measurements will determine energy dissipation rates as a function of operating conditions. The velocity profiles as a function of the size of the particles, speed of the belt, and outlet size, will be compared to shear rate relationships found in past experiments that focused on gravity-driven systems. The dimension of the linear shear and type of decaying transition to the stationary bed may appear different due to the compression versus dilation space in open flows. The application of this research can serve to validate simulations in discrete element modeling and physically demonstrate a process that can be further developed and customized for industry applications, such as feeding a biomass conversion reactor. Sponsored by NIU's Office of Student Engagement and Experiential Learning.

Computational Design of Short Pulse Laser Driven Iron Opacity Measurements at Stellar-Relevant Conditions

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

Martin, Madison E.

Opacity is a critical parameter in the simulation of radiation transport in systems such as inertial con nement fusion capsules and stars. The resolution of current disagreements between solar models and helioseismological observations would bene t from experimental validation of theoretical opacity models. Overall, short pulse laser heated iron experiments reaching stellar-relevant conditions have been designed with consideration of minimizing tamper emission and optical depth effects while meeting plasma condition and x-ray emission goals.

Using a Theory-Driven Approach to Manage the Relocation of an Intensive Care Unit: An Exemplar.

PubMed

Lin, Frances; Marshall, Andrea; Hervey, Lucy; Foster, Michelle; Hancock, Jane; Chaboyer, Wendy

Proactive planning and managing moving from old to newly built hospitals, and the relocation process of patients for complex specialized units such as intensive care units, are necessary for both patient safety and staff well-being. This article provides an exemplar for how theory can be used to facilitate a positive relocation experience. Using change management theory, a systematic approach to cocreate implementation strategy among researchers and clinicians was critical to the success of this project.

An African theory of bioethics: reply to MacPherson and Macklin.

PubMed

Metz, Thaddeus

2010-12-01

In a prior issue of Developing World Bioethics, Cheryl Macpherson and Ruth Macklin critically engaged with an article of mine, where I articulated a moral theory grounded on indigenous values salient in the sub-Saharan region, and then applied it to four major issues in bioethics, comparing and contrasting its implications with those of the dominant Western moral theories, utilitarianism and Kantianism. In response to my essay, Macpherson and Macklin have posed questions about: whether philosophical justifications are something with which bioethicists ought to be concerned; why something counts as 'African'; how medicine is a moral enterprise; whether an individual right to informed consent is consistent with sub-Saharan values; and when thought experiments help to establish firm conclusions about moral status. These are important issues for the field, and I use this reply to take discussion of them a step or two farther, defending my initial article from Macpherson's and Macklin's critical questions and objections. © 2010 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Mastitis prevention and control practices and mastitis treatment strategies associated with the consumption of (critically important) antimicrobials on dairy herds in Flanders, Belgium.

PubMed

Stevens, M; Piepers, S; De Vliegher, S

2016-04-01

The main objectives of this study were to evaluate to what extent variations in herd-level antimicrobial consumption (AMC) can be explained by differences in management practices that are consistently effective in the prevention of (sub)clinical mastitis, on the one hand, and by differences in mastitis treatment strategies, on the other hand. Antimicrobial consumption data were obtained during 2012 and 2013 by "garbage can audits" and expressed as antimicrobial treatment incidences (ATI) for all compounds combined (total ATI) and for the critically important antimicrobials for human health separately. Data on mastitis prevention and control practices were obtained via face-to-face interviews performed during herd visits in March 2013. Some management practices and treatment strategies related to udder health were associated with the total AMC. However, the results demonstrated that implementing effective udder health management practices does not necessarily imply a low AMC and vice versa. Herds participating in a veterinary herd health management program and herds selectively drying off cows used fewer antimicrobials compared with herds not participating in such a program or applying blanket dry-cow therapy. Moreover, herds treating (some) (sub)clinical mastitis cases with intramammary homeopathic substances consumed fewer antimicrobials than herds not applying such homeopathic treatments. Besides these factors, no other direct association was found between effective udder health management practices on the one hand and AMC on the other hand. Also, the use of critically important antimicrobials was only associated with the way in which subclinical mastitis cases were treated. The latter indicates that the AMC of critically important antimicrobials is potentially driven by factors other than those included in this study such as those related to the "mindset" of the veterinarians and their farmers. Future research should therefore aim to unravel the reasoning of vets and their farmers behind the use of those critically important antimicrobials for the treatment of mastitis and other diseases. Copyright © 2016 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Thermodynamic model for the regeneration of sulfur-poisoned nickel catalyst. 1. Using thermodynamic properties of bulk nickel compounds only

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

Chughtai, A.R.; Riter, J.R. Jr.

1979-10-18

By the use of the modified computer programs of Gordon and McBride for the determination of heterogeneous phase and chemical equilibria at preassigned temperatures (300-1100 K) and atmospheric pressure (101 325 N m/sup -2/), the oxidation with O/sub 2/ of sulfur-poisoned Raney nickel catalyst and subsequent reduction with H/sub 2/ have been modeled thermodynamically by using the properties of bulk nickel compounds. An alternate process, the direct reduction with H/sub 2/ of the sulfidized nickel, has also been modeled and arguments are advanced for the further investigation of this thermodynamically favored second process. In both processes the mole ratios ofmore » reactants, H/sub 2//NiSO/sub 4/ and H/sub 2//Ni/sub 3/S/sub 2/, respectively, for complete disappearance of the last product to be reduced, Ni/sub 3/S/sub 2/, increase markedly as the desired temperature for complete thermodynamic reduction decreases. These ratios and the equilibrium activity quotient P/sub H/sub 2///P/sub H/sub 2/S/ have been determined as quantitative functions of this critical reduction temperature. A complete thermodynamic hierarchy of oxidation processes for the reaction of O/sub 2/ with mixtures of Ni and Ni/sub 3/S/sub 2/ is developed. From the equilibrium calculations it is brought out that Ni/sub 3/S/sub 2/ is relatively more stable both to oxidation with O/sub 2/ than is Ni and to reduction with H/sub 2/ than is NiO. One point of modest connection with experiment is presented for the reduction processes. 1 figure, 1 table.« less

Anomalous expansion of the copper-apical-oxygen distance in superconducting cuprate bilayers

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

Zhou, Hua; Yacoby, Yizhak; Butko, Vladimir Y.

2010-08-27

We have introduced an improved x-ray phase-retrieval method with unprecedented speed of convergence and precision, and used it to determine with sub-Angstrom resolution the complete atomic structure of epitaxial La{sub 2-x}Sr{sub x}CuO{sub 4} ultrathin films. We focus on superconducting heterostructures built from constituent materials that are not superconducting in bulk samples. Single-phase metallic or superconducting films are also studied for comparison. The results show that this phase-retrieval diffraction method enables accurate measurement of structural modifications in near-surface layers, which may be critically important for elucidation of surface-sensitive experiments. Specifically we find that, while the copper-apical-oxygen distance remains approximately constant inmore » single-phase films, it shows a dramatic increase from the metallic-insulating interface of the bilayer towards the surface by as much as 0.45 {angstrom}. The apical-oxygen displacement is known to have a profound effect on the superconducting transition temperature.« less

Evolution of Local Microstructures: Spatial Instabilities of Coarsening Clusters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Frazier, Donald O.

1999-01-01

This work examines the diffusional growth of discrete phase particles dispersed within a matrix. Engineering materials are microstructurally heterogeneous, and the details of the microstructure determine how well that material performs in a given application. Critical to the development of designing multiphase microstructures with long-term stability is the process of Ostwald ripening. Ripening, or phase coarsening, is a diffusion-limited process which arises in polydisperse multiphase materials. Growth and dissolution occur because fluxes of solute, driven by chemical potential gradients at the interfaces of the dispersed phase material, depend on particle size. The kinetics of these processes are "competitive," dictating that larger particles grow at the expense of smaller ones, overall leading to an increase of the average particle size. The classical treatment of phase coarsening was done by Todes, Lifshitz, and Slyozov, (TLS) in the limit of zero volume fraction, V(sub v), of the dispersed phase. Since the publication of TLS theory there have been numerous investigations, many of which sought to describe the kinetic scaling behavior over a 0 range of volume fractions. Some studies in the literature report that the relative increase in coarsening rate at low (but not zero) volume fractions compared to that predicted by TLS is proportional to v(sub v)(exp 1/2), whereas others suggcest V(sub v)(exp 1/3). This issue has been resolved recently by simulation studies at low volume fractions in three dimensions by members of the Rensselaer/MSFC team. Our studies of ripening behavior using large-scale numerical simulations suggest that although there are different circumstances which can lead to either scaling law, the most important length scale at low volume fractions is the diffusional analog of the Debye screening length. The numerical simulations we employed exploit the use of a recently developed "snapshot" technique, and identifies the nature of the coarsening dynamics at various volume fractions. Preliminary results of numerical and experimental investigations, focused on the growth of finite particle clusters, provide important insight into the nature of the transition between the two scaling regimes. The companion microgravity experiment centers on the growth within finite particle clusters, and follows the temporal dynamics driving microstructural evolution, using holography.

Just-in-time Database-Driven Web Applications

PubMed Central

2003-01-01

"Just-in-time" database-driven Web applications are inexpensive, quickly-developed software that can be put to many uses within a health care organization. Database-driven Web applications garnered 73873 hits on our system-wide intranet in 2002. They enabled collaboration and communication via user-friendly Web browser-based interfaces for both mission-critical and patient-care-critical functions. Nineteen database-driven Web applications were developed. The application categories that comprised 80% of the hits were results reporting (27%), graduate medical education (26%), research (20%), and bed availability (8%). The mean number of hits per application was 3888 (SD = 5598; range, 14-19879). A model is described for just-in-time database-driven Web application development and an example given with a popular HTML editor and database program. PMID:14517109

Weibel instability mediated collisionless shocks using intense laser-driven plasmas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Palaniyappan, Sasikumar; Fiuza, Federico; Huang, Chengkun; Gautier, Donald; Ma, Wenjun; Schreiber, Jorg; Raymer, Abel; Fernandez, Juan; Shimada, Tom; Johnson, Randall

2017-10-01

The origin of cosmic rays remains a long-standing challenge in astrophysics and continues to fascinate physicists. It is believed that ``collisionless shocks'' - where the particle Coulomb mean free path is much larger that the shock transition - are a dominant source of energetic cosmic rays. These shocks are ubiquitous in astrophysical environments such as gamma-ray bursts, supernova remnants, pulsar wind nebula and coronal mass ejections from the sun. A particular type of electromagnetic plasma instability known as Weibel instability is believed to be the dominant mechanism behind the formation of these collisionless shocks in the cosmos. The understanding of the microphysics behind collisionless shocks and their particle acceleration is tightly related with nonlinear basic plasma processes and remains a grand challenge. In this poster, we will present results from recent experiments at the LANL Trident laser facility studying collisionless shocks using intense ps laser (80J, 650 fs - peak intensity of 1020 W/cm2) driven near-critical plasmas using carbon nanotube foam targets. A second short pulse laser driven protons from few microns thick gold foil is used to radiograph the main laser-driven plasma. Work supported by the LDRD program at LANL.

Weibel instability mediated collisionless shocks using intense laser-driven plasmas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Palaniyappan, Sasi; Huang, Chengkun; Gautier, Donald; Fernandez, Juan; Ma, Wenjun; Schreiber, Jorg; LANL Collaboration; LMU Team

2016-10-01

The origin of cosmic rays remains a long-standing challenge in astrophysics and continues to fascinate physicists. It is believed that ``collisionless shocks'' - where the particle Coulomb mean free path is much larger that the shock transition - are a dominant source of energetic cosmic rays. These shocks are ubiquitous in astrophysical environments such as gamma-ray bursts, supernova remnants, pulsar wind nebula and coronal mass ejections from the sun. Several spacecraft observations have revealed acceleration of charged particles, mostly electrons, to very high energies with in the shock front. There is now also clear observational evidence that supernova remnant shocks accelerate both protons and electrons. The understanding of the microphysics behind collisionless shocks and their particle acceleration is tightly related with nonlinear basic plasma processes and remains a grand challenge. In this poster, we will present results from recent experiments at the LANL Trident laser facility studying collisionless shocks using intense ps laser (80J, 650 fs - peak intensity of 1020 W/cm2) driven near-critical plasmas using carbon nanotube foam targets. A second short pulse laser driven protons from few microns thick aluminum foil is used to image the laser-driven plasma.

Surface Tension Induced Instabilities in Reduced Gravity: the Benard Problem

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koschmieder, E.; Chai, A. T.

1985-01-01

A Benard convection experiment has been set up, and the onset of convection in shallow layers of silicone oil two millimeters or less deep has been studied. The onset has been observed visually or has been determined by the break in the heat transfer curve which accompanies the onset of convection. The outcome of these experiments has been very surprising, from the point of view of theoretical expectations. The onset of convection at temperature differences far below the critical value for fluid depths smaller than 2mm was observed. The discrepancy between experiments and theory increases with decreasing fluid depth. According to theoretical considerations, the effects of surface tension become more important as the fluid depth is decreased. Actually, one observes that the onset of convection tales place in two stages. There is first an apparently surface tension driven instability, occuring at subcritical temperature differences according to conventional theory. If then the temperature difference is increased, a second instability occurs which transform the first pattern into conventional strong hexagonal Benard cells. The second instability is in agreement with the critical temperature gradients predicted by Nield.

Dynamic trajectory analysis of superparamagnetic beads driven by on-chip micromagnets

PubMed Central

Abedini-Nassab, Roozbeh; Lim, Byeonghwa; Yang, Ye; Howdyshell, Marci; Sooryakumar, Ratnasingham; Yellen, Benjamin B.

2015-01-01

We investigate the non-linear dynamics of superparamagnetic beads moving around the periphery of patterned magnetic disks in the presence of an in-plane rotating magnetic field. Three different dynamical regimes are observed in experiments, including (1) phase-locked motion at low driving frequencies, (2) phase-slipping motion above the first critical frequency fc1, and (3) phase-insulated motion above the second critical frequency fc2. Experiments with Janus particles were used to confirm that the beads move by sliding rather than rolling. The rest of the experiments were conducted on spherical, isotropic magnetic beads, in which automated particle position tracking algorithms were used to analyze the bead dynamics. Experimental results in the phase-locked and phase-slipping regimes correlate well with numerical simulations. Additional assumptions are required to predict the onset of the phase-insulated regime, in which the beads are trapped in closed orbits; however, the origin of the phase-insulated state appears to result from local magnetization defects. These results indicate that these three dynamical states are universal properties of bead motion in non-uniform oscillators. PMID:26648596

Ab initio study of phase stability of NaZr{sub 2}(PO{sub 4}){sub 3} under pressure

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

Chinnappan, Ravi; Kaur, Gurpreet; Panigrahi, B. K.

2016-05-23

The elastic constants of NaZr{sub 2}(PO{sub 4}){sub 3} were computed as a function of pressure through Density Functional Theory calculations. The behavior of elastic constants show that the rhombohedral (R-3c) NaZr{sub 2}(PO{sub 4}){sub 3} becomes unstable above 8 GPa and is driven by softening of C{sub 44} through one of the Born stability criteria. High pressure equation of state and enthalpy show further that the ambient rhombohedral (R-3c)) NaZr{sub 2}(PO{sub 4}){sub 3} transforms first to another rhombohedral (R3) phase and subsequently to LiZr{sub 2}(PO{sub 4}){sub 3}-type orthorhombic phase at pressures above 6 and 8 GPa respectively which are in agreement with recentmore » X-ray diffraction study.« less

Third harmonic generation of a short pulse laser in a plasma density ripple created by a machining beam

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

Liu, C. S.; Tripathi, V. K.

An intense machining laser beam, impinged on a gas jet target, causes space periodic ionization of the gas and heats the electrons. The nonuniform plasma pressure leads to atomic density redistribution. When, after a suitable time delay, a second more intense laser pulse is launched along the periodicity wave vector q-vector, a plasma density ripple n{sub q} is instantly created, leading to resonant third harmonic generation when q=4{omega}{sub p}{sup 2}/(3{omega}c{gamma}{sub 0}), where {omega}{sub p} is the plasma frequency, {omega} is the laser frequency, and {gamma}{sub 0} is the electron Lorentz factor. The third harmonic is produced through the beating ofmore » ponderomotive force induced second harmonic density oscillations and the quiver velocity of electrons at the fundamental. The relativistic mass nonlinearity plays no role in resonant coupling. The energy conversion efficiency scales as the square of plasma density and square of depth of density ripple, and is {approx}0.2% for normalized laser amplitude a{sub o}{approx}1 in a plasma of 1% critical density with 20% density ripple. The theory explains several features of a recent experiment.« less

Impact of Mantle Wind on Subducting Plate Geometry and Interplate Pressure: Insights From Physical Modelling.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boutelier, D.; Cruden, A. R.

2005-12-01

New physical models of subduction investigate the impact of large-scale mantle flow on the structure of the subducted slab and deformation of the downgoing and overriding plates. The experiments comprise two lithospheric plates made of highly filled silicone polymer resting on a model asthenosphere of low viscosity transparent silicone polymer. Subduction is driven by a piston that pushes the subducting plate at constant rate, a slab-pull force due to the relative density of the slab, and a basal drag force exerted by flow in the model asthenosphere. Large-scale mantle flow is imposed by a second piston moving at constant rate in a tunnel at the bottom of the experiment tank. Passive markers in the mantle track the evolution of flow during the experiment. Slab structure is recorded by side pictures of the experiment while horizontal deformation is studied via passive marker grids on top of both plates. The initial mantle flow direction beneath the overriding plate can be sub-horizontal or sub-vertical. In both cases, as the slab penetrates the mantle, the mantle flow pattern changes to accommodate the subducting high viscosity lithosphere. As the slab continues to descend, the imposed flow produces either over- or under-pressure on the lower surface of the slab depending on the initial mantle flow pattern (sub-horizontal or sub-vertical respectively). Over-pressure imposed on the slab lower surface promotes shallow dip subduction while under-pressure tends to steepen the slab. These effects resemble those observed in previous experiments when the overriding plate moves horizontally with respect to a static asthenosphere. Our experiments also demonstrate that a strong vertical drag force (due to relatively fast downward mantle flow) exerted on the slab results in a decrease in strain rate in both the downgoing and overriding plates, suggesting a decrease in interplate pressure. Furthermore, with an increase in drag force deformation in the downgoing plate can switch from compression to extension. The density contrast between the downgoing plate and asthenosphere is varied from 0% to ~2% in order to investigate the relative contributions of mantle flow and slab pull force on the geometry of the slab and tectonic regime (compressional or extensional).

On the ultrafast charge migration and subsequent charge directed reactivity in Cl⋯N halogen-bonded clusters following vertical ionization

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

Chandra, Sankhabrata; Bhattacharya, Atanu, E-mail: atanub@ipc.iisc.ernet.in; Periyasamy, Ganga

2015-06-28

In this article, we have presented ultrafast charge transfer dynamics through halogen bonds following vertical ionization of representative halogen bonded clusters. Subsequent hole directed reactivity of the radical cations of halogen bonded clusters is also discussed. Furthermore, we have examined effect of the halogen bond strength on the electron-electron correlation- and relaxation-driven charge migration in halogen bonded complexes. For this study, we have selected A-Cl (A represents F, OH, CN, NH{sub 2}, CF{sub 3}, and COOH substituents) molecules paired with NH{sub 3} (referred as ACl:NH{sub 3} complex): these complexes exhibit halogen bonds. To the best of our knowledge, this ismore » the first report on purely electron correlation- and relaxation-driven ultrafast (attosecond) charge migration dynamics through halogen bonds. Both density functional theory and complete active space self-consistent field theory with 6-31 + G(d, p) basis set are employed for this work. Upon vertical ionization of NCCl⋯NH{sub 3} complex, the hole is predicted to migrate from the NH{sub 3}-end to the ClCN-end of the NCCl⋯NH{sub 3} complex in approximately 0.5 fs on the D{sub 0} cationic surface. This hole migration leads to structural rearrangement of the halogen bonded complex, yielding hydrogen bonding interaction stronger than the halogen bonding interaction on the same cationic surface. Other halogen bonded complexes, such as H{sub 2}NCl:NH{sub 3}, F{sub 3}CCl:NH{sub 3}, and HOOCCl:NH{sub 3}, exhibit similar charge migration following vertical ionization. On the contrary, FCl:NH{sub 3} and HOCl:NH{sub 3} complexes do not exhibit any charge migration following vertical ionization to the D{sub 0} cation state, pointing to interesting halogen bond strength-dependent charge migration.« less

Application of real-time digitization techniques in beam measurement for accelerators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Lei; Zhan, Lin-Song; Gao, Xing-Shun; Liu, Shu-Bin; An, Qi

2016-04-01

Beam measurement is very important for accelerators. In this paper, modern digital beam measurement techniques based on IQ (In-phase & Quadrature-phase) analysis are discussed. Based on this method and high-speed high-resolution analog-to-digital conversion, we have completed three beam measurement electronics systems designed for the China Spallation Neutron Source (CSNS), Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility (SSRF), and Accelerator Driven Sub-critical system (ADS). Core techniques of hardware design and real-time system calibration are discussed, and performance test results of these three instruments are also presented. Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China (11205153, 10875119), Knowledge Innovation Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (KJCX2-YW-N27), and the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities (WK2030040029),and the CAS Center for Excellence in Particle Physics (CCEPP).

Laser Hole Boring into Overdense Plasma and Relativistic Electron Currents for Fast Ignition of ICF Targets

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

Pukhov, A.; Meyer-ter-Vehn, J.

Laser hole boring and relativistic electron transport into plasma of 10 times critical density is studied by means of 2D particle-in-cell simulation. At intensities of I{sub 0}{lambda}{sup 2}=10{sup 20} W(cm){sup {minus}2} {mu}m{sup 2}, a channel 12{lambda} deep and 3{lambda} in diameter has formed after 200 laser cycles. The laser driven electron current carries up to 40{percent} of the incident laser power. When penetrating the overdense region, it breaks up into several filaments at early times, but is channeled into a single magnetized jet later on. These features are essential for fast ignition of targets for inertial confinement fusion (ICF). {copyright}more » {ital 1997} {ital The American Physical Society}« less

AgI/Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} hybrids with highly efficient visible-light driven photocatalytic activity

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

Katsumata, Hideyuki, E-mail: hidek@chem.mie-u.ac.jp; Hayashi, Takahiro; Taniguchi, Masanao

Highlights: • AgI/Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} hybrid was prepared via an in situ anion-exchange method. • AgI/Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} displays the excellent photocatalytic activity under visible light. • AgI/Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} readily transforms to be Ag@AgI/Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} system. • h{sup +} and O{sub 2}{sup ·−} play the major role in the AO 7 decolorization over AgI/Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}. • The activity enhancement is ascribed to a Z-scheme system composed of Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}, Ag and AgI. - Abstract: Highly efficient visible-light-driven AgI/Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} hybrid photocatalysts with different mole ratios of AgI were prepared via an in situ anion-exchange methodmore » and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) and photoluminescence (PL) technique. Under visible light irradiation (>420 nm), the AgI/Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} photocatalysts displayed the higher photocatalytic activity than pure Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} and AgI for the decolorization of acid orange 7 (AO 7). Among the hybrid photocatalysts, AgI/Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} with 80% of AgI exhibited the highest photocatalytic activity for the decolorization of AO 7. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) results revealed that AgI/Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} readily transformed to be Ag@AgI/Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} system while the photocatalytic activity of AgI/Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} remained after 5 recycling runs. In addition, the quenching effects of different scavengers displayed that the reactive h{sup +} and O{sub 2}{sup ·−} play the major role in the AO 7 decolorization. The photocatalytic activity enhancement of AgI/Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4} hybrids can be ascribed to the efficient separation of electron–hole pairs through a Z-scheme system composed of Ag{sub 3}PO{sub 4}, Ag and AgI, in which Ag nanoparticles act as the charge separation center.« less

Generation of sub-gigabar-pressure shocks by a hyper-velocity impact in the collider driven by laser-induced cavity pressure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Badziak, J.; Kucharik, M.; Liska, R.

2018-02-01

The generation of high-pressure shocks in the newly proposed collider in which the projectile impacting a solid target is driven by the laser-induced cavity pressure acceleration (LICPA) mechanism is investigated using two-dimensional hydrodynamic simulations. The dependence of parameters of the shock generated in the target by the impact of a gold projectile on the impacted target material and the laser driver energy is examined. It is found that both in case of low-density (CH, Al) and high-density (Au, Cu) solid targets the shock pressures in the sub-Gbar range can be produced in the LICPA-driven collider with the laser energy of only a few hundreds of joules, and the laser-to-shock energy conversion efficiency can reach values of 10 - 20 %, by an order of magnitude higher than the conversion efficiencies achieved with other laser-based methods used so far.

Robust forecasts on fundamental physics from the foreground-obscured, gravitationally-lensed CMB polarization

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

Errard, Josquin; Feeney, Stephen M.; Jaffe, Andrew H.

2016-03-01

Recent results from the BICEP, Keck Array and Planck Collaborations demonstrate that Galactic foregrounds are an unavoidable obstacle in the search for evidence of inflationary gravitational waves in the cosmic microwave background (CMB) polarization. Beyond the foregrounds, the effect of lensing by intervening large-scale structure further obscures all but the strongest inflationary signals permitted by current data. With a plethora of ongoing and upcoming experiments aiming to measure these signatures, careful and self-consistent consideration of experiments' foreground- and lensing-removal capabilities is critical in obtaining credible forecasts of their performance. We investigate the capabilities of instruments such as Advanced ACTPol, BICEP3more » and Keck Array, CLASS, EBEX10K, PIPER, Simons Array, SPT-3G and SPIDER, and projects as COrE+, LiteBIRD-ext, PIXIE and Stage IV, to clean contamination due to polarized synchrotron and dust from raw multi-frequency data, and remove lensing from the resulting co-added CMB maps (either using iterative CMB-only techniques or through cross-correlation with external data). Incorporating these effects, we present forecasts for the constraining power of these experiments in terms of inflationary physics, the neutrino sector, and dark energy parameters. Made publicly available through an online interface, this tool enables the next generation of CMB experiments to foreground-proof their designs, optimize their frequency coverage to maximize scientific output, and determine where cross-experimental collaboration would be most beneficial. We find that analyzing data from ground, balloon and space instruments in complementary combinations can significantly improve component separation performance, delensing, and cosmological constraints over individual datasets. In particular, we find that a combination of post-2020 ground- and space-based experiments could achieve constraints such as σ(r)∼1.3×10{sup −4}, σ(n{sub t})∼0.03, σ( n{sub s} )∼1.8×10{sup −3}, σ(α{sub s})∼1.7×10{sup −3}, σ( M{sub ν} )∼31 meV, σ( w )∼0.09, σ( w{sub 0} )∼ 0.25, 0σ( w{sub a} )∼ 0.5, σ( N{sub eff} )∼0.024 and σ( Ω{sub k} )∼1.5×10{sup −3}, after component separation and iterative delensing.« less

Critical current density and irreversibility line of CuBa{sub 2}Ca{sub 3}Cu{sub 4}O{sub y}

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

Iyo, A.; Tokumoto, M.; Ihara, H.

The critical current density and irreversibility line of the single-phase polycrystalline sample of CuBa{sub 2}Ca{sub 3}Cu{sub 4}O{sub y} with T{sub c}= 117 K have been estimated from measurements of magnetic hysteresis loops assuming Bean critical state model. Simple power law relations, J{sub c}{proportional_to}H{sup {minus}m}, are observed in the magnetic field dependence of the intragrain J{sub c}. Values of the intragrain J{sub c} in a magnetic field of 1 T are about 10{sup 6} and 10{sup 4} A/cm{sup 2} at temperatures of 5 and 77 K, respectively. An exponential decay of the J{sub c} with increasing temperature, J{sub c}{proportional_to}exp({minus}T/T{sub 0}), ismore » observed below 60 K. The characteristic temperature T{sub 0} of Cu-1234 is T{sub 0}= 16.1 K in a magnetic field of 1.0 T. The dependence of the J{sub c} on temperature is relatively small among the oxide superconductors. Simple power law relations, J{sub c}{proportional_to}(1{minus}T/T{sub c}){sup n}, are found in whole ranges of the temperature and magnetic field. The value of n is 5.24 for a magnetic field of 1.0 T. The irreversibility fields at 70 and 77 K are estimated to be 9.5 and 3.7 T, respectively. The temperature dependence of the H{sub irr} is fitted by H{sub irr}=a(1{minus}T/T{sub c}){sup n} with a=2130 and n=5.91.« less

Numerical investigation of kinetic turbulence in relativistic pair plasmas - I. Turbulence statistics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhdankin, Vladimir; Uzdensky, Dmitri A.; Werner, Gregory R.; Begelman, Mitchell C.

2018-02-01

We describe results from particle-in-cell simulations of driven turbulence in collisionless, magnetized, relativistic pair plasma. This physical regime provides a simple setting for investigating the basic properties of kinetic turbulence and is relevant for high-energy astrophysical systems such as pulsar wind nebulae and astrophysical jets. In this paper, we investigate the statistics of turbulent fluctuations in simulations on lattices of up to 10243 cells and containing up to 2 × 1011 particles. Due to the absence of a cooling mechanism in our simulations, turbulent energy dissipation reduces the magnetization parameter to order unity within a few dynamical times, causing turbulent motions to become sub-relativistic. In the developed stage, our results agree with predictions from magnetohydrodynamic turbulence phenomenology at inertial-range scales, including a power-law magnetic energy spectrum with index near -5/3, scale-dependent anisotropy of fluctuations described by critical balance, lognormal distributions for particle density and internal energy density (related by a 4/3 adiabatic index, as predicted for an ultra-relativistic ideal gas), and the presence of intermittency. We also present possible signatures of a kinetic cascade by measuring power-law spectra for the magnetic, electric and density fluctuations at sub-Larmor scales.

Tunable surface plasmon instability leading to emission of radiation

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

Gumbs, Godfrey; Donostia International Physics Center; Iurov, Andrii, E-mail: aiurov@chtm.unm.edu

2015-08-07

We propose a new approach for energy conversion from a dc electric field to tunable terahertz emission based on hybrid semiconductors by combining two-dimensional (2D) crystalline layers and a thick conducting material with possible applications for chemical analysis, security scanning, medical (single-molecule) imaging, and telecommunications. The hybrid nano-structure may consist of a single or pair of sheets of graphene, silicene, or a 2D electron gas. When an electric current is passed through a 2D layer, we discover that two low-energy plasmon branches exhibit a characteristic loop in their dispersion before they merge into an unstable region beyond a critical wavemore » vector q{sub c}. This finite q{sub c} gives rise to a wavenumber cutoff in the emission dispersion of the surface plasmon induced instability and emission of radiation (spiler). However, there is no instability for a single driven layer far from the conductor, and the instability of an isolated pair of 2D layers occurs without a wavenumber cutoff. The wavenumber cutoff is found to depend on the conductor electron density, layer separation, distances of layers from the conductor surface, and the driving-current strength.« less

Energy of the quasi-free electron in H{sub 2}, D{sub 2}, and O{sub 2}: Probing intermolecular potentials within the local Wigner-Seitz model

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

Evans, C. M., E-mail: cherice.evans@qc.cuny.edu; Krynski, Kamil; Streeter, Zachary

2015-12-14

We present for the first time the quasi-free electron energy V{sub 0}(ρ) for H{sub 2}, D{sub 2}, and O{sub 2} from gas to liquid densities, on noncritical isotherms and on a near critical isotherm in each fluid. These data illustrate the ability of field enhanced photoemission (FEP) to determine V{sub 0}(ρ) accurately in strongly absorbing fluids (e.g., O{sub 2}) and fluids with extremely low critical temperatures (e.g., H{sub 2} and D{sub 2}). We also show that the isotropic local Wigner-Seitz model for V{sub 0}(ρ) — when coupled with thermodynamic data for the fluid — can yield optimized parameters for intermolecularmore » potentials, as well as zero kinetic energy electron scattering lengths.« less

Critical Time Crystals in Dipolar Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ho, Wen Wei; Choi, Soonwon; Lukin, Mikhail D.; Abanin, Dmitry A.

2017-07-01

We analyze the quantum dynamics of periodically driven, disordered systems in the presence of long-range interactions. Focusing on the stability of discrete time crystalline (DTC) order in such systems, we use a perturbative procedure to evaluate its lifetime. For 3D systems with dipolar interactions, we show that the corresponding decay is parametrically slow, implying that robust, long-lived DTC order can be obtained. We further predict a sharp crossover from the stable DTC regime into a regime where DTC order is lost, reminiscent of a phase transition. These results are in good agreement with the recent experiments utilizing a dense, dipolar spin ensemble in diamond [Nature (London) 543, 221 (2017), 10.1038/nature21426]. They demonstrate the existence of a novel, critical DTC regime that is stabilized not by many-body localization but rather by slow, critical dynamics. Our analysis shows that the DTC response can be used as a sensitive probe of nonequilibrium quantum matter.

Z/sub n/ Baxter model: Critical behavior

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

Tracy, C.A.

1986-07-01

The Z/sub n/ Baxter Model is an exactly solvable lattice model in the special case of the Belavin parametrization. We calculate the critical behavior of Prob/sub n/ (q = w/sup k/) using techniques developed in number theory in the study of the congruence properties of p(m), the number of unrestricted partitions of an integer m.

Remote Sensing and Quantization of Analog Sensors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Strauss, Karl F.

2011-01-01

This method enables sensing and quantization of analog strain gauges. By manufacturing a piezoelectric sensor stack in parallel (physical) with a piezoelectric actuator stack, the capacitance of the sensor stack varies in exact proportion to the exertion applied by the actuator stack. This, in turn, varies the output frequency of the local sensor oscillator. The output, F(sub out), is fed to a phase detector, which is driven by a stable reference, F(sub ref). The output of the phase detector is a square waveform, D(sub out), whose duty cycle, t(sub W), varies in exact proportion according to whether F(sub out) is higher or lower than F(sub ref). In this design, should F(sub out) be precisely equal to F(sub ref), then the waveform has an exact 50/50 duty cycle. The waveform, D(sub out), is of generally very low frequency suitable for safe transmission over long distances without corruption. The active portion of the waveform, t(sub W), gates a remotely located counter, which is driven by a stable oscillator (source) of such frequency as to give sufficient digitization of t(sub W) to the resolution required by the application. The advantage to this scheme is that it negates the most-common, present method of sending either very low level signals (viz. direct output from the sensors) across great distances (anything over one-half meter) or the need to transmit widely varying higher frequencies over significant distances thereby eliminating interference [both in terms of beat frequency generation and in-situ EMI (electromagnetic interference)] caused by ineffective shielding. It also results in a significant reduction in shielding mass.

Stellar winds in binary X-ray systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Macgregor, K. B.; Vitello, P. A. J.

1982-01-01

It is thought that accretion from a strong stellar wind by a compact object may be responsible for the X-ray emission from binary systems containing a massive early-type primary. To investigate the effect of X-ray heating and ionization on the mass transfer process in systems of this type, an idealized model is constructed for the flow of a radiation-driven wind in the presence of an X-ray source of specified luminosity, L sub x. It is noted that for low values of L sub x, X-ray photoionization gives rise to additional ions having spectral lines with wavelengths situated near the peak of the primary continuum flux distribution. As a consequence, the radiation force acting on the gas increases in relation to its value in the absence of X-rays, and the wind is accelerated to higher velocities. As L sub x is increased, the degree of ionization of the wind increases, and the magnitude of the radiation force is diminished in comparison with the case in which L sub x = 0. This reduction leads at first to a decrease in the wind velocity and ultimately (for L sub x sufficiently large) to the termination of radiatively driven mass loss.

Tales from the New Frontier: Pioneers' Experiences with Consumer-Driven Health Care

PubMed Central

Lo Sasso, Anthony T; Rice, Thomas; Gabel, Jon R; Whitmore, Heidi

2004-01-01

Objective To conduct site visits to study the early experiences of firms offering consumer-driven health care (CDHC) plans to their employees and firms that provide CDHC products. Data Sources/Study Setting A convenience sample of three firms offering CDHC products to their employees, one of which is also a large insurer, and one firm offering an early CDHC product to employers. Study Design We conducted onsite interviews of four companies during the spring and summer of 2003. These four cases were not selected randomly. We contacted organizations that already had a consumer-driven plan in place by January 2002 so as to provide a complete year's worth of experience with CDHC. Principal Findings The experience of the companies we visited indicated that favorable selection tends to result when a CDHC plan is introduced alongside traditional preferred provider organization (PPO) and health maintenance organization (HMO) plan offerings. Two sites demonstrated substantial cost-savings. Our case studies also indicate that the more mundane aspects of health care benefits are still crucial under CDHC. The size of the provider network accessible through the CDHC plan was critical, as was the role of premium contributions in the benefit design. Also, companies highlighted the importance of educating employees about new CDHC products: employees who understood the product were more likely to enroll. Conclusions Our site visits suggest the peril (risk selection) and the promise (cost savings) of CDHC. At this point there is still far more that we do not know about CDHC than we do know. Little is known about the extent to which CDHC changes people's behavior, the extent to which quality of care is affected by CDHC, and whether web-based information and tools actually make patients become better consumers. PMID:15230912

Tales from the new frontier: pioneers' experiences with consumer-driven health care.

PubMed

Lo Sasso, Anthony T; Rice, Thomas; Gabel, Jon R; Whitmore, Heidi

2004-08-01

To conduct site visits to study the early experiences of firms offering consumer-driven health care (CDHC) plans to their employees and firms that provide CDHC products. A convenience sample of three firms offering CDHC products to their employees, one of which is also a large insurer, and one firm offering an early CDHC product to employers. We conducted onsite interviews of four companies during the spring and summer of 2003. These four cases were not selected randomly. We contacted organizations that already had a consumer-driven plan in place by January 2002 so as to provide a complete year's worth of experience with CDHC. The experience of the companies we visited indicated that favorable selection tends to result when a CDHC plan is introduced alongside traditional preferred provider organization (PPO) and health maintenance organization (HMO) plan offerings. Two sites demonstrated substantial cost-savings. Our case studies also indicate that the more mundane aspects of health care benefits are still crucial under CDHC. The size of the provider network accessible through the CDHC plan was critical, as was the role of premium contributions in the benefit design. Also, companies highlighted the importance of educating employees about new CDHC products: employees who understood the product were more likely to enroll. Our site visits suggest the peril (risk selection) and the promise (cost savings) of CDHC. At this point there is still far more that we do not know about CDHC than we do know. Little is known about the extent to which CDHC changes people's behavior, the extent to which quality of care is affected by CDHC, and whether web-based information and tools actually make patients become better consumers.

Ferro and antiferro orbital ordering in Fe{sub 0.5}Mn{sub 0.5}V{sub 2}O{sub 4}

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

Dey, Dibyendu, E-mail: dibyendu@phy.iitkgp.ernet.in; Taraphder, A.; Maitra, T.

2016-05-23

Using density functional theory calculations, we have investigated the orbital ordering in Fe{sub 0.5}Mn{sub 0.5}V{sub 2}O{sub 4} where Fe and V sites are orbitally active. Our first principles study within GGA+U and GGA+U+SO shows ferro-orbital ordering of d{sub x2−y2} orbital at all Fe sites, whereas A-type antiferro-orbital ordering at V sites where one 3d electron occupies d{sub xy} orbital at every V site and another electron occupies either 1/√2 (d{sub xz} + d{sub yz}) or 1/√2 (d{sub xz} - d{sub yz}) orbital alternatively along c axis. Insulating nature and the orbital ordering of this compound are found to be correlationmore » driven while the effect of spin-orbit interaction on orbital ordering is not significant.« less

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

Mautner, M.M.N.

The ionization energy of ferrocene (Cp{sub 2}Fe) was measured by charge-transfer equilibria as 6.81 {plus minus} 0.07 eV (157.1 {plus minus} 1.6 kcal/mol). The proton affinity was obtained from equilibrium temperature studies as 207 {plus minus} 1 kcal/mol. The protonation of Cp{sub 2}Fe also involves a significant entropy change of +6.3 cal/mol{center dot}K. Deuteration experiments show that, in the protonation of Cp{sub 2}Fe, the incoming proton goes to a sterically unique position and does not exchange with the ring protons. This is consistent with protonation on iron, but ring protonation exclusively in an exo position or an agostic ring-to-iron bridgedmore » structure are also possible. The results suggest that the proton affinity at Fe is greater by at least 5 kcal/mol than for ring protonation. The solvation energies of Cp{sub 2}Fe{sup +} and Cp{sub 2}FeH{sup +} by a CH{sub 3}CN molecule, 11.4 and 12.9 kcal/mol, respectively, are weaker than those of most gas-phase cations, and the attachment energies of dimethyl ether and benzene, <9 kcal/mol, are even weaker. These results support that the weak solution basicity of Cp{sub 2}Fe is due to inefficient ion solvation. The kinetics of proton transfer between Cp{sub 2}Fe and some cyclic compounds is unusually slow, with reaction efficiencies of 0.1-0.01, without significant temperature dependence. These are the first proton-transfer reactions to show such behavior, which may be due to a combination of an energy barrier and steric hindrance. Proton transfer is also observed from (RCN){sub 2}H{sup +} dimer ions to Cp{sub 2}Fe. These reactions may be direct or involve ligand switching, and in several cases either mechanism is endothermic and entropy-driven.« less

High-Q silica zipper cavity for optical radiation pressure driven MOMS switch

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

Tetsumoto, Tomohiro; Tanabe, Takasumi, E-mail: takasumi@elec.keio.ac.jp

2014-07-15

We design a silica zipper cavity that has high optical and mechanical Q (quality factor) values and demonstrate numerically the feasibility of a radiation pressure driven micro opto-mechanical system (MOMS) directional switch. The silica zipper cavity has an optical Q of 4.0 × 10{sup 4} and an effective mode volume V{sub mode} of 0.67λ{sup 3} when the gap between two cavities is 34 nm. The mechanical Q (Q{sub m}) is determined by thermo-elastic damping and is 2.0 × 10{sup 6} in a vacuum at room temperature. The opto-mechanical coupling rate g{sub OM} is as high as 100 GHz/nm, which allowsmore » us to move the directional cavity-waveguide system and switch 1550-nm light with 770-nm light by controlling the radiation pressure.« less

Studies of ˜ps laser driven plasmas in line focus geometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tallents, G. J.; Al-Hadithi, Y.; Dwivedi, L.; Behjat, A.; Demir, A.; Holden, M.; Krishnan, J.; Zhang, J.; Key, M. H.; Neely, D.; Norreys, P. A.; Lewis, C. L. S.; MacPhee, A. G.

1995-05-01

Measurements of X-ray emission along linear plasmas produced in short pulse (2-12 ps) experiments using the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory glass (1.06 μm) and KrF (0.268 μm) lasers are interpreted to provide information about the uniformity and lateral and axial energy transport of X-ray laser gain media. For fiber targets, the difficulties of achieving uniform irradiation and accurate plasma length measurements are illustrated and discussed. For slab targets, it is shown that the ratio of the distance between the critical density surface and the ablation surface to the laser focal width controls lateral transport in a similar manner as for spot focus experiments.

Abnormal variation of band gap in Zn doped Bi{sub 0.9}La{sub 0.1}FeO{sub 3} nanoparticles: Role of Fe-O-Fe bond angle and Fe-O bond anisotropy

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

Xu, Xunling; Liu, Weifang, E-mail: wfliu@tju.edu.cn, E-mail: shouyu.wang@yahoo.com; Wu, Ping

2015-07-27

Bi{sub 0.9}La{sub 0.1}FeO{sub 3} (BLFO) and Bi{sub 0.9}La{sub 0.1}Fe{sub 0.99}Zn{sub 0.01}O{sub 3} (BLFZO) nanoparticles were prepared via a sol-gel method. The oxygen vacancies and holes increase with Zn doping analyzed through X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, which could contribute to the increase of leakage current density. However, with the increase of the defects (oxygen vacancies and holes), the band gap of BLFZO also is increased. To explain the abnormal phenomenon, the bandwidth of occupied and unoccupied bands was analyzed based on the structural symmetry driven by the Fe-O-Fe bond angle and Fe-O bond anisotropy.

Structure and thermodynamics of core-softened models for alcohols

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

Munaò, Gianmarco, E-mail: gmunao@unime.it; Urbic, Tomaz

The phase behavior and the fluid structure of coarse-grain models for alcohols are studied by means of reference interaction site model (RISM) theory and Monte Carlo simulations. Specifically, we model ethanol and 1-propanol as linear rigid chains constituted by three (trimers) and four (tetramers) partially fused spheres, respectively. Thermodynamic properties of these models are examined in the RISM context, by employing closed formulæ for the calculation of free energy and pressure. Gas-liquid coexistence curves for trimers and tetramers are reported and compared with already existing data for a dimer model of methanol. Critical temperatures slightly increase with the number ofmore » CH{sub 2} groups in the chain, while critical pressures and densities decrease. Such a behavior qualitatively reproduces the trend observed in experiments on methanol, ethanol, and 1-propanol and suggests that our coarse-grain models, despite their simplicity, can reproduce the essential features of the phase behavior of such alcohols. The fluid structure of these models is investigated by computing radial distribution function g{sub ij}(r) and static structure factor S{sub ij}(k); the latter shows the presence of a low−k peak at intermediate-high packing fractions and low temperatures, suggesting the presence of aggregates for both trimers and tetramers.« less

Speech-driven environmental control systems--a qualitative analysis of users' perceptions.

PubMed

Judge, Simon; Robertson, Zoë; Hawley, Mark; Enderby, Pam

2009-05-01

To explore users' experiences and perceptions of speech-driven environmental control systems (SPECS) as part of a larger project aiming to develop a new SPECS. The motivation for this part of the project was to add to the evidence base for the use of SPECS and to determine the key design specifications for a new speech-driven system from a user's perspective. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 users of SPECS from around the United Kingdom. These interviews were transcribed and analysed using a qualitative method based on framework analysis. Reliability is the main influence on the use of SPECS. All the participants gave examples of occasions when their speech-driven system was unreliable; in some instances, this unreliability was reported as not being a problem (e.g., for changing television channels); however, it was perceived as a problem for more safety critical functions (e.g., opening a door). Reliability was cited by participants as the reason for using a switch-operated system as back up. Benefits of speech-driven systems focused on speech operation enabling access when other methods were not possible; quicker operation and better aesthetic considerations. Overall, there was a perception of increased independence from the use of speech-driven environmental control. In general, speech was considered a useful method of operating environmental controls by the participants interviewed; however, their perceptions regarding reliability often influenced their decision to have backup or alternative systems for certain functions.

Impact of (α, n) reactions on weak r-process in neutrino-driven winds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bliss, J.; Arcones, A.; Montes, F.; Pereira, J.

2017-05-01

After a successful core-collapse supernova, a neutrino-driven wind develops where it is possible to synthesize lighter heavy elements (30 < Z < 45). In the early galaxy, the origin of these elements is associated with the r-process and to an additional process. Here we assume that the additional process corresponds to the weak r-process (sometimes referred to as alpha-process) taking place in neutrino-driven winds. Based on a trajectory obtained from hydrodynamical simulations we study the astrophysics and nuclear physics uncertainties of a weak r-process with our main focus on the (α, n) reactions. These reactions are critical to redistribute the matter and allow it to move from light to heavy elements after nuclear statistical equilibrium freezes out. In this first sensitivity study, we vary all (α, n) reactions by given constant factors which are justified based on the uncertainties of the statistical model and its nuclear physics input, mainly alpha optical potentials for weak r-process conditions. Our results show that (α, n) rate uncertainties are indeed crucial to predict abundances. Therefore, further studies will follow to identify individual critical reactions. Since the nucleosynthesis path is close to stability, these reactions can be measured in the near future. Since much of the other nuclear data for the weak r-process are known, the reduction in nuclear physics uncertainties provided by these experiments will allow astronomical observations to directly constrain the astronomical conditions in the wind.

An empirical method that separates irreversible stem radial growth from bark water content changes in trees: theory and case studies

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

Mencuccini, Maurizio; Salmon, Yann; Mitchell, Patrick

Substantial uncertainty surrounds our knowledge of tree stem growth, with some of the most basic questions, such as when stem radial growth occurs through the daily cycle, still unanswered. Here, we employed high-resolution point dendrometers, sap flow sensors, and developed theory and statistical approaches, to devise a novel method separating irreversible radial growth from elastic tension-driven and elastic osmotically driven changes in bark water content. We tested this method using data from five case study species. Experimental manipulations, namely a field irrigation experiment on Scots pine and a stem girdling experiment on red forest gum trees, were used to validatemore » the theory. Time courses of stem radial growth following irrigation and stem girdling were consistent with a-priori predictions. Patterns of stem radial growth varied across case studies, with growth occurring during the day and/or night, consistent with the available literature. Importantly, our approach provides a valuable alternative to existing methods, as it can be approximated by a simple empirical interpolation routine that derives irreversible radial growth using standard regression techniques. In conclusion, our novel method provides an improved understanding of the relative source–sink carbon dynamics of tree stems at a sub-daily time scale.« less

How do you say 'hello'? Personality impressions from brief novel voices.

PubMed

McAleer, Phil; Todorov, Alexander; Belin, Pascal

2014-01-01

On hearing a novel voice, listeners readily form personality impressions of that speaker. Accurate or not, these impressions are known to affect subsequent interactions; yet the underlying psychological and acoustical bases remain poorly understood. Furthermore, hitherto studies have focussed on extended speech as opposed to analysing the instantaneous impressions we obtain from first experience. In this paper, through a mass online rating experiment, 320 participants rated 64 sub-second vocal utterances of the word 'hello' on one of 10 personality traits. We show that: (1) personality judgements of brief utterances from unfamiliar speakers are consistent across listeners; (2) a two-dimensional 'social voice space' with axes mapping Valence (Trust, Likeability) and Dominance, each driven by differing combinations of vocal acoustics, adequately summarises ratings in both male and female voices; and (3) a positive combination of Valence and Dominance results in increased perceived male vocal Attractiveness, whereas perceived female vocal Attractiveness is largely controlled by increasing Valence. Results are discussed in relation to the rapid evaluation of personality and, in turn, the intent of others, as being driven by survival mechanisms via approach or avoidance behaviours. These findings provide empirical bases for predicting personality impressions from acoustical analyses of short utterances and for generating desired personality impressions in artificial voices.

An empirical method that separates irreversible stem radial growth from bark water content changes in trees: theory and case studies.

PubMed

Mencuccini, Maurizio; Salmon, Yann; Mitchell, Patrick; Hölttä, Teemu; Choat, Brendan; Meir, Patrick; O'Grady, Anthony; Tissue, David; Zweifel, Roman; Sevanto, Sanna; Pfautsch, Sebastian

2017-02-01

Substantial uncertainty surrounds our knowledge of tree stem growth, with some of the most basic questions, such as when stem radial growth occurs through the daily cycle, still unanswered. We employed high-resolution point dendrometers, sap flow sensors, and developed theory and statistical approaches, to devise a novel method separating irreversible radial growth from elastic tension-driven and elastic osmotically driven changes in bark water content. We tested this method using data from five case study species. Experimental manipulations, namely a field irrigation experiment on Scots pine and a stem girdling experiment on red forest gum trees, were used to validate the theory. Time courses of stem radial growth following irrigation and stem girdling were consistent with a-priori predictions. Patterns of stem radial growth varied across case studies, with growth occurring during the day and/or night, consistent with the available literature. Importantly, our approach provides a valuable alternative to existing methods, as it can be approximated by a simple empirical interpolation routine that derives irreversible radial growth using standard regression techniques. Our novel method provides an improved understanding of the relative source-sink carbon dynamics of tree stems at a sub-daily time scale. © 2016 The Authors Plant, Cell & Environment Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

An empirical method that separates irreversible stem radial growth from bark water content changes in trees: theory and case studies

DOE PAGES

Mencuccini, Maurizio; Salmon, Yann; Mitchell, Patrick; ...

2017-11-12

Substantial uncertainty surrounds our knowledge of tree stem growth, with some of the most basic questions, such as when stem radial growth occurs through the daily cycle, still unanswered. Here, we employed high-resolution point dendrometers, sap flow sensors, and developed theory and statistical approaches, to devise a novel method separating irreversible radial growth from elastic tension-driven and elastic osmotically driven changes in bark water content. We tested this method using data from five case study species. Experimental manipulations, namely a field irrigation experiment on Scots pine and a stem girdling experiment on red forest gum trees, were used to validatemore » the theory. Time courses of stem radial growth following irrigation and stem girdling were consistent with a-priori predictions. Patterns of stem radial growth varied across case studies, with growth occurring during the day and/or night, consistent with the available literature. Importantly, our approach provides a valuable alternative to existing methods, as it can be approximated by a simple empirical interpolation routine that derives irreversible radial growth using standard regression techniques. In conclusion, our novel method provides an improved understanding of the relative source–sink carbon dynamics of tree stems at a sub-daily time scale.« less

Ezrin enhances line tension along transcellular tunnel edges via NMIIa driven actomyosin cable formation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stefani, Caroline; Gonzalez-Rodriguez, David; Senju, Yosuke; Doye, Anne; Efimova, Nadia; Janel, Sébastien; Lipuma, Justine; Tsai, Meng Chen; Hamaoui, Daniel; Maddugoda, Madhavi P.; Cochet-Escartin, Olivier; Prévost, Coline; Lafont, Frank; Svitkina, Tatyana; Lappalainen, Pekka; Bassereau, Patricia; Lemichez, Emmanuel

2017-06-01

Transendothelial cell macroaperture (TEM) tunnels control endothelium barrier function and are triggered by several toxins from pathogenic bacteria that provoke vascular leakage. Cellular dewetting theory predicted that a line tension of uncharacterized origin works at TEM boundaries to limit their widening. Here, by conducting high-resolution microscopy approaches we unveil the presence of an actomyosin cable encircling TEMs. We develop a theoretical cellular dewetting framework to interpret TEM physical parameters that are quantitatively determined by laser ablation experiments. This establishes the critical role of ezrin and non-muscle myosin II (NMII) in the progressive implementation of line tension. Mechanistically, fluorescence-recovery-after-photobleaching experiments point for the upstream role of ezrin in stabilizing actin filaments at the edges of TEMs, thereby favouring their crosslinking by NMIIa. Collectively, our findings ascribe to ezrin and NMIIa a critical function of enhancing line tension at the cell boundary surrounding the TEMs by promoting the formation of an actomyosin ring.

Ezrin enhances line tension along transcellular tunnel edges via NMIIa driven actomyosin cable formation

PubMed Central

Stefani, Caroline; Gonzalez-Rodriguez, David; Senju, Yosuke; Doye, Anne; Efimova, Nadia; Janel, Sébastien; Lipuma, Justine; Tsai, Meng Chen; Hamaoui, Daniel; Maddugoda, Madhavi P.; Cochet-Escartin, Olivier; Prévost, Coline; Lafont, Frank; Svitkina, Tatyana; Lappalainen, Pekka; Bassereau, Patricia; Lemichez, Emmanuel

2017-01-01

Transendothelial cell macroaperture (TEM) tunnels control endothelium barrier function and are triggered by several toxins from pathogenic bacteria that provoke vascular leakage. Cellular dewetting theory predicted that a line tension of uncharacterized origin works at TEM boundaries to limit their widening. Here, by conducting high-resolution microscopy approaches we unveil the presence of an actomyosin cable encircling TEMs. We develop a theoretical cellular dewetting framework to interpret TEM physical parameters that are quantitatively determined by laser ablation experiments. This establishes the critical role of ezrin and non-muscle myosin II (NMII) in the progressive implementation of line tension. Mechanistically, fluorescence-recovery-after-photobleaching experiments point for the upstream role of ezrin in stabilizing actin filaments at the edges of TEMs, thereby favouring their crosslinking by NMIIa. Collectively, our findings ascribe to ezrin and NMIIa a critical function of enhancing line tension at the cell boundary surrounding the TEMs by promoting the formation of an actomyosin ring. PMID:28643776

Ezrin enhances line tension along transcellular tunnel edges via NMIIa driven actomyosin cable formation.

PubMed

Stefani, Caroline; Gonzalez-Rodriguez, David; Senju, Yosuke; Doye, Anne; Efimova, Nadia; Janel, Sébastien; Lipuma, Justine; Tsai, Meng Chen; Hamaoui, Daniel; Maddugoda, Madhavi P; Cochet-Escartin, Olivier; Prévost, Coline; Lafont, Frank; Svitkina, Tatyana; Lappalainen, Pekka; Bassereau, Patricia; Lemichez, Emmanuel

2017-06-23

Transendothelial cell macroaperture (TEM) tunnels control endothelium barrier function and are triggered by several toxins from pathogenic bacteria that provoke vascular leakage. Cellular dewetting theory predicted that a line tension of uncharacterized origin works at TEM boundaries to limit their widening. Here, by conducting high-resolution microscopy approaches we unveil the presence of an actomyosin cable encircling TEMs. We develop a theoretical cellular dewetting framework to interpret TEM physical parameters that are quantitatively determined by laser ablation experiments. This establishes the critical role of ezrin and non-muscle myosin II (NMII) in the progressive implementation of line tension. Mechanistically, fluorescence-recovery-after-photobleaching experiments point for the upstream role of ezrin in stabilizing actin filaments at the edges of TEMs, thereby favouring their crosslinking by NMIIa. Collectively, our findings ascribe to ezrin and NMIIa a critical function of enhancing line tension at the cell boundary surrounding the TEMs by promoting the formation of an actomyosin ring.

Validation of the new code package APOLLO2.8 for accurate PWR neutronics calculations

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

Santamarina, A.; Bernard, D.; Blaise, P.

2013-07-01

This paper summarizes the Qualification work performed to demonstrate the accuracy of the new APOLLO2.S/SHEM-MOC package based on JEFF3.1.1 nuclear data file for the prediction of PWR neutronics parameters. This experimental validation is based on PWR mock-up critical experiments performed in the EOLE/MINERVE zero-power reactors and on P.I. Es on spent fuel assemblies from the French PWRs. The Calculation-Experiment comparison for the main design parameters is presented: reactivity of UOX and MOX lattices, depletion calculation and fuel inventory, reactivity loss with burnup, pin-by-pin power maps, Doppler coefficient, Moderator Temperature Coefficient, Void coefficient, UO{sub 2}-Gd{sub 2}O{sub 3} poisoning worth, Efficiency ofmore » Ag-In-Cd and B4C control rods, Reflector Saving for both standard 2-cm baffle and GEN3 advanced thick SS reflector. From this qualification process, calculation biases and associated uncertainties are derived. This code package APOLLO2.8 is already implemented in the ARCADIA new AREVA calculation chain for core physics and is currently under implementation in the future neutronics package of the French utility Electricite de France. (authors)« less

The interplay of long-range magnetic order and single-ion anisotropy in rare earth nickel germanides

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

Islam, Z.

1999-05-10

This dissertation is concerned with the interplay of long-range order and anisotropy in the tetragonal RNi{sub 2}Ge{sub 2} (R = rare earth) family of compounds. Microscopic magnetic structures were studied using both neutron and x-ray resonant exchange scattering (XRES) techniques. The magnetic structures of Tb, Dy, Eu and Gd members have been determined using high-quality single-crystal samples. This work has correlated a strong Fermi surface nesting to the magnetic ordering in the RNi{sub 2}Ge{sub 2} compounds. Generalized susceptibility, {chi}{sub 0}(q), calculations found nesting to be responsible for both incommensurate ordering wave vector in GdNi{sub 2}Ge{sub 2}, and the commensurate structuremore » in EuNi{sub 2}Ge{sub 2}. A continuous transition from incommensurate to commensurate magnetic structures via band filling is predicted. The surprisingly higher T{sub N} in EuNi{sub 2}Ge{sub 2} than that in GdNi{sub 2}Ge{sub 2} is also explained. Next, all the metamagnetic phases in TbNi{sub 2}Ge{sub 2} with an applied field along the c axis have been characterized with neutron diffraction measurements. A mixed phase model for the first metamagnetic structure consisting of fully-saturated as well as reduced-moment Tb ions is presented. The moment reduction may be due to moment instability which is possible if the exchange is comparable to the low-lying CEF level splitting and the ground state is a singlet. In such a case, certain Tb sites may experience a local field below the critical value needed to reach saturation.« less

The magnetic phase transition in Mn{sub 1.1}Fe{sub 0.9}P{sub 1−x}Ge{sub x} magnetocaloric alloys

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

Chen, X.; Ramanujan, R. V., E-mail: ramanujan@ntu.edu.sg

Mn-Fe-P-Ge alloys are promising, low cost, high performance candidates for magnetic cooling applications based on the magnetocaloric effect. These alloys undergo a magnetic phase transition which induces a large entropy change (ΔS). Experimental and modeling studies were conducted to study this transition for varying Ge content. Landau theory and the Bean-Rodbell model were applied to Mn{sub 1.1}Fe{sub 0.9}P{sub 1−x}Ge{sub x} (x = 0.26, 0.3, and 0.32) melt spun ribbons to model the phase transition and the associated entropy change. The critical behavior of these alloys was studied. The critical composition range at which the cross over from first order to second ordermore » magnetic transition occurs was determined. The calculated thermodynamic values and critical temperatures were in good agreement with our experimental results. A high maximum entropy change (ΔS) of ∼44.9 J kg{sup −1} K{sup −1} was observed in Mn{sub 1.1}Fe{sub 0.9}P{sub 0.74}Ge{sub 0.26} in a 5 T applied magnetic field. The results suggest that Mn-Fe-P-Ge alloys are very attractive materials for near room temperature magnetic cooling.« less

The onset of electrohydrodynamic instability in isoelectric focusing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Baygents, James C.

1993-01-01

The onset of electrohydrodynamic motion associated with the imposition of an electric field across a thin layer of liquid has been investigated for the case in which the electrical conductivity varies linearly over the depth of the layer. The variation of the conductivity is due to concentration gradients in the charge-carrying solutes and its spatio-temporal evolution is represented by a convective-diffusion equation. When the viscous relaxation time is long compared to the time for charge relaxation, the analysis reveals that the neutral stability curves for the layer can be characterized by three dimensionless parameters: Ra(sub e) is equivalent to d(epsilon)E(sup 2, sub 0) Delta sigma/mu K(sub eff) sigma(sub 0), an electrical Rayleigh number; delta sigma/sigma(sub 0), the relative conductivity increment; and alpha, the transverse wave number of the disturbance. Here d is the thickness, epsilon is the dielectric constant, and mu is the viscosity of layer, E(sub 0) is the applied field strength at the lower conductivity boundary, and K(sub eff) is an effective diffusivity associated with the Brownian motion of the charge-carrying solutes. With viscous-stress-free boundaries, at which the electrical conductivity and the normal component of the electric field are prescribed, the critical Ra(sub e) is 1.504 x 10(exp 4) at a critical transverse wave number of 1.97 when Delta sigma/sigma(sub 0) is 10. As Delta sigma/sigma(sub 0) increases, the critical Ra(sub e) increases and shifts to shorter wavelength disturbances; the critical imposed field strength, however, passes through a minimum because the lower-conductivity boundary exerts a considerable stabilizing influence in the presence of steep conductivity gradients. Similar trends were obtained for liquid layers with rigid boundaries.

Laser separation of lithium isotopes by double resonance enhanced multiphoton ionization of Li/sub 2/

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

Balz, J.G.; Bernheim, R.A.; Gold, L.P.

1987-01-01

Multiphoton ionization spectra of /sup 7/Li/sub 2/, /sup 6/Li/sub 2/, and /sup 7/Li/sup 6/Li vapors have been measured in the 570--650 nm region using a single, low resolution, multimode cw dye laser. A number of wavelengths provide selective multiphoton ionization of one isotopic species demonstrating the possibility of efficient laser-driven isotopic separation in lithium in this wavelength region.

A Current Source Method For t(sub q) Measurement of Fast Switching Thyristors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Niedra, Janis M.

2006-01-01

A current source driven circuit has been constructed to measure the turn-off time (t(sub q)) of fast-switching SiC thyristors. This circuit operates from a single power supply and a dual channel pulse generator to provide adjustment of forward current, magnitude and duration of reverse applied voltage, and rate of rise of reapplied forward voltage. Values of t(sub q) down to 100 ns can be resolved.

Testing conceptual and physically based soil hydrology schemes against observations for the Amazon Basin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guimberteau, M.; Ducharne, A.; Ciais, P.; Boisier, J. P.; Peng, S.; De Weirdt, M.; Verbeeck, H.

2014-06-01

This study analyzes the performance of the two soil hydrology schemes of the land surface model ORCHIDEE in estimating Amazonian hydrology and phenology for five major sub-basins (Xingu, Tapajós, Madeira, Solimões and Negro), during the 29-year period 1980-2008. A simple 2-layer scheme with a bucket topped by an evaporative layer is compared to an 11-layer diffusion scheme. The soil schemes are coupled with a river routing module and a process model of plant physiology, phenology and carbon dynamics. The simulated water budget and vegetation functioning components are compared with several data sets at sub-basin scale. The use of the 11-layer soil diffusion scheme does not significantly change the Amazonian water budget simulation when compared to the 2-layer soil scheme (+3.1 and -3.0% in evapotranspiration and river discharge, respectively). However, the higher water-holding capacity of the soil and the physically based representation of runoff and drainage in the 11-layer soil diffusion scheme result in more dynamic soil water storage variation and improved simulation of the total terrestrial water storage when compared to GRACE satellite estimates. The greater soil water storage within the 11-layer scheme also results in increased dry-season evapotranspiration (+0.5 mm d-1, +17%) and improves river discharge simulation in the southeastern sub-basins such as the Xingu. Evapotranspiration over this sub-basin is sustained during the whole dry season with the 11-layer soil diffusion scheme, whereas the 2-layer scheme limits it after only 2 dry months. Lower plant drought stress simulated by the 11-layer soil diffusion scheme leads to better simulation of the seasonal cycle of photosynthesis (GPP) when compared to a GPP data-driven model based on eddy covariance and satellite greenness measurements. A dry-season length between 4 and 7 months over the entire Amazon Basin is found to be critical in distinguishing differences in hydrological feedbacks between the soil and the vegetation cover simulated by the two soil schemes. On average, the multilayer soil diffusion scheme provides little improvement in simulated hydrology over the wet tropical Amazonian sub-basins, but a more significant improvement is found over the drier sub-basins. The use of a multilayer soil diffusion scheme might become critical for assessments of future hydrological changes, especially in southern regions of the Amazon Basin where longer dry seasons and more severe droughts are expected in the next century.

Image-driven Population Analysis through Mixture Modeling

PubMed Central

Sabuncu, Mert R.; Balci, Serdar K.; Shenton, Martha E.; Golland, Polina

2009-01-01

We present iCluster, a fast and efficient algorithm that clusters a set of images while co-registering them using a parameterized, nonlinear transformation model. The output of the algorithm is a small number of template images that represent different modes in a population. This is in contrast with traditional, hypothesis-driven computational anatomy approaches that assume a single template to construct an atlas. We derive the algorithm based on a generative model of an image population as a mixture of deformable template images. We validate and explore our method in four experiments. In the first experiment, we use synthetic data to explore the behavior of the algorithm and inform a design choice on parameter settings. In the second experiment, we demonstrate the utility of having multiple atlases for the application of localizing temporal lobe brain structures in a pool of subjects that contains healthy controls and schizophrenia patients. Next, we employ iCluster to partition a data set of 415 whole brain MR volumes of subjects aged 18 through 96 years into three anatomical subgroups. Our analysis suggests that these subgroups mainly correspond to age groups. The templates reveal significant structural differences across these age groups that confirm previous findings in aging research. In the final experiment, we run iCluster on a group of 15 patients with dementia and 15 age-matched healthy controls. The algorithm produces two modes, one of which contains dementia patients only. These results suggest that the algorithm can be used to discover sub-populations that correspond to interesting structural or functional “modes.” PMID:19336293

Modelling deuterium release from tungsten after high flux high temperature deuterium plasma exposure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grigorev, Petr; Matveev, Dmitry; Bakaeva, Anastasiia; Terentyev, Dmitry; Zhurkin, Evgeny E.; Van Oost, Guido; Noterdaeme, Jean-Marie

2016-12-01

Tungsten is a primary candidate for plasma facing materials for future fusion devices. An important safety concern in the design of plasma facing components is the retention of hydrogen isotopes. Available experimental data is vast and scattered, and a consistent physical model of retention of hydrogen isotopes in tungsten is still missing. In this work we propose a model of non-equilibrium hydrogen isotopes trapping under fusion relevant plasma exposure conditions. The model is coupled to a diffusion-trapping simulation tool and is used to interpret recent experiments involving high plasma flux exposures. From the computational analysis performed, it is concluded that high flux high temperature exposures (T = 1000 K, flux = 1024 D/m2/s and fluence of 1026 D/m2) result in generation of sub-surface damage and bulk diffusion, so that the retention is driven by both sub-surface plasma-induced defects (bubbles) and trapping at natural defects. On the basis of the non-equilibrium trapping model we have estimated the amount of H stored in the sub-surface region to be ∼10-5 at-1, while the bulk retention is about 4 × 10-7 at-1, calculated by assuming the sub-surface layer thickness of about 10 μm and adjusting the trap concentration to comply with the experimental results for the integral retention.

A NEW DENSITY VARIANCE-MACH NUMBER RELATION FOR SUBSONIC AND SUPERSONIC ISOTHERMAL TURBULENCE

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

Konstandin, L.; Girichidis, P.; Federrath, C.

The probability density function of the gas density in subsonic and supersonic, isothermal, driven turbulence is analyzed using a systematic set of hydrodynamical grid simulations with resolutions of up to 1024{sup 3} cells. We perform a series of numerical experiments with root-mean-square (rms) Mach number M ranging from the nearly incompressible, subsonic (M=0.1) to the highly compressible, supersonic (M=15) regime. We study the influence of two extreme cases for the driving mechanism by applying a purely solenoidal (divergence-free) and a purely compressive (curl-free) forcing field to drive the turbulence. We find that our measurements fit the linear relation between themore » rms Mach number and the standard deviation (std. dev.) of the density distribution in a wide range of Mach numbers, where the proportionality constant depends on the type of forcing. In addition, we propose a new linear relation between the std. dev. of the density distribution {sigma}{sub {rho}} and that of the velocity in compressible modes, i.e., the compressible component of the rms Mach number, M{sub comp}. In this relation the influence of the forcing is significantly reduced, suggesting a linear relation between {sigma}{sub {rho}} and M{sub comp}, independent of the forcing, and ranging from the subsonic to the supersonic regime.« less

Home visiting programs for HIV-affected families: a comparison of service quality between volunteer-driven and paraprofessional models.

PubMed

Kidman, Rachel; Nice, Johanna; Taylor, Tory; Thurman, Tonya R

2014-10-02

Home visiting is a popular component of programs for HIV-affected children in sub-Saharan Africa, but its implementation varies widely. While some home visitors are lay volunteers, other programs invest in more highly trained paraprofessional staff. This paper describes a study investigating whether additional investment in paraprofessional staffing translated into higher quality service delivery in one program context. Beneficiary children and caregivers at sites in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa were interviewed after 2 years of program enrollment and asked to report about their experiences with home visiting. Analysis focused on intervention exposure, including visit intensity, duration and the kinds of emotional, informational and tangible support provided. Few beneficiaries reported receiving home visits in program models primarily driven by lay volunteers; when visits did occur, they were shorter and more infrequent. Paraprofessional-driven programs not only provided significantly more home visits, but also provided greater interaction with the child, communication on a larger variety of topics, and more tangible support to caregivers. These results suggest that programs that invest in compensation and extensive training for home visitors are better able to serve and retain beneficiaries, and they support a move toward establishing a professional workforce of home visitors to support vulnerable children and families in South Africa.

Propagation of a laser-driven relativistic electron beam inside a solid dielectric.

PubMed

Sarkisov, G S; Ivanov, V V; Leblanc, P; Sentoku, Y; Yates, K; Wiewior, P; Chalyy, O; Astanovitskiy, A; Bychenkov, V Yu; Jobe, D; Spielman, R B

2012-09-01

Laser probe diagnostics: shadowgraphy, interferometry, and polarimetry were used for a comprehensive characterization of ionization wave dynamics inside a glass target induced by a laser-driven, relativistic electron beam. Experiments were done using the 50-TW Leopard laser at the University of Nevada, Reno. We show that for a laser flux of ∼2 × 10(18) W/cm2 a hemispherical ionization wave propagates at c/3 for 10 ps and has a smooth electron-density distribution. The maximum free-electron density inside the glass target is ∼2 × 10(19) cm-3, which corresponds to an ionization level of ∼0.1%. Magnetic fields and electric fields do not exceed ∼15 kG and ∼1 MV/cm, respectively. The electron temperature has a hot, ringlike structure with a maximum of ∼0.7 eV. The topology of the interference phase shift shows the signature of the "fountain effect", a narrow electron beam that fans out from the propagation axis and heads back to the target surface. Two-dimensional particle-in-cell (PIC) computer simulations demonstrate radial spreading of fast electrons by self-consistent electrostatic fields driven by laser. The very low ionization observed after the laser heating pulse suggests a fast recombination on the sub-ps time scale.

Comparison of tungsten nano-tendrils grown in Alcator C-Mod and linear plasma devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wright, G. M.; Brunner, D.; Baldwin, M. J.; Bystrov, K.; Doerner, R. P.; Labombard, B.; Lipschultz, B.; De Temmerman, G.; Terry, J. L.; Whyte, D. G.; Woller, K. B.

2013-07-01

Growth of tungsten nano-tendrils ("fuzz") has been observed for the first time in the divertor region of a high-power density tokamak experiment. After 14 consecutive helium L-mode discharges in Alcator C-Mod, the tip of a tungsten Langmuir probe at the outer strike point was fully covered with a layer of nano-tendrils. The depth of the W fuzz layer (600 ± 150 nm) is consistent with an empirical growth formula from the PISCES experiment. Re-creating the C-Mod exposures as closely as possible in Pilot-PSI experiment can produce nearly-identical nano-tendril morphology and layer thickness at surface temperatures that agree with uncertainties with the C-Mod W probe temperature data. Helium concentrations in W fuzz layers are measured at 1-4 at.%, which is lower than expected for the observed sub-surface voids to be filled with several GPa of helium pressure. This possibly indicates that the void formation is not pressure driven.

Quasistationary magnetic field generation with a laser-driven capacitor-coil assembly.

PubMed

Tikhonchuk, V T; Bailly-Grandvaux, M; Santos, J J; Poyé, A

2017-08-01

Recent experiments are showing possibilities to generate strong magnetic fields on the excess of 500 T with high-energy nanosecond laser pulses in a compact setup of a capacitor connected to a single turn coil. Hot electrons ejected from the capacitor plate (cathode) are collected at the other plate (anode), thus providing the source of a current in the coil. However, the physical processes leading to generation of currents exceeding hundreds of kiloamperes in such a laser-driven diode are not sufficiently understood. Here we present a critical analysis of previous results and propose a self-consistent model for the high current generation in a laser-driven capacitor-coil assembly. It accounts for three major effects controlling the diode current: the space charge neutralization, the plasma magnetization between the capacitor plates, and the Ohmic heating of the external circuit-the coil-shaped connecting wire. The model provides the conditions necessary for transporting strongly super-Alfvenic currents through the diode on the time scale of a few nanoseconds. The model validity is confirmed by a comparison with the available experimental data.

Nonlinear effects in the bounded dust-vortex flow in plasma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Laishram, Modhuchandra; Sharma, Devendra; Chattopdhyay, Prabal K.; Kaw, Predhiman K.

2017-03-01

The vortex structures in a cloud of electrically suspended dust in a streaming plasma constitutes a driven system with a rich nonlinear flow regime. Experimentally recovered toroidal formations of this system have motivated study of its volumetrically driven-dissipative vortex flow dynamics using two-dimensional hydrodynamics in the incompressible Navier-Stokes regime. Nonlinear equilibrium solutions are obtained for this system where a nonuniformly driven two-dimensional dust flow exhibits distinct regions of localized accelerations and strong friction caused by stationary fluids at the confining boundaries resisting the dust flow. In agreement with observations in experiments, it is demonstrated that the nonlinear effects appear in the limit of small viscosity, where the primary vortices form scaling with the most dominant spatial scales of the domain topology and develop separated virtual boundaries along their periphery. This separation is triggered beyond a critical dust viscosity that signifies a structural bifurcation. Emergence of uniform vorticity core and secondary vortices with a newer level of identical dynamics highlights the applicability of the studied dynamics to gigantic vortex flows, such as the Jovian great red spot, to microscopic biophysical intracellular activity.

Laser pulse shape design for laser-indirect-driven quasi-isentropic compression experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xue, Quanxi; Jiang, Shaoen; Wang, Zhebin; Wang, Feng; Zhao, Xueqing; Ding, Yongkun

2018-02-01

Laser pulse shape design is a key work in the design of indirect-laser-driven experiments, especially for long pulse laser driven quasi-isentropic compression experiments. A method for designing such a laser pulse shape is given here. What's more, application experiments were performed, and the results of a typical shot are presented. At last of this article, the details of the application of the method are discussed, such as the equation parameter choice, radiation ablation pressure expression, and approximations in the method. The application shows that the method can provide reliable descriptions of the energy distribution in a hohlraum target; thus, it can be used in the design of long-pulse laser driven quasi-isentropic compression experiments and even other indirect-laser-driven experiments.

Mechanism of singlet oxygen deactivation in an electric discharge oxygen – iodine laser

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

Azyazov, V N; Mikheyev, P A; Torbin, A P

2014-12-31

We have determined the influence of the reaction of molecular singlet oxygen with a vibrationally excited ozone molecule O{sub 2}(a {sup 1}Δ) + O{sub 3}(ν) → 2O{sub 2} + O on the removal rate of O{sub 2}(a {sup 1}Δ) in an electric-discharge-driven oxygen – iodine laser. This reaction has been shown to be a major channel of O{sub 2}(a {sup 1}Δ) loss at the output of an electric-discharge singlet oxygen generator. In addition, it can also contribute significantly to the loss of O{sub 2}(a {sup 1}Δ) in the discharge region of the generator. (lasers)

Charge carrier localization effects on the quantum efficiency and operating temperature range of InAs{sub x}P{sub 1−x}/InP quantum well detectors

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

Vashisht, Geetanjali, E-mail: geetanjali@rrcat.gov.in; Dixit, V. K., E-mail: dixit@rrcat.gov.in; Porwal, S.

2016-03-07

The effect of charge carrier localization resulting in “S-shaped” temperature dependence of the photoluminescence peak energy of InAs{sub x}P{sub 1−x}/InP quantum wells (QWs) is distinctly revealed by the temperature dependent surface photo voltage (SPV) and photoconductivity (PC) processes. It is observed that the escape efficiency of carriers from QWs depends on the localization energy, where the carriers are unable to contribute in SPV/PC signal below a critical temperature. Below the critical temperature, carriers are strongly trapped in the localized states and are therefore unable to escape from the QW. Further, the critical temperature increases with the magnitude of localization energymore » of carriers. Carrier localization thus plays a pivotal role in defining the operating temperature range of InAs{sub x}P{sub 1−x}/InP QW detectors.« less

Longitudinal Study of a Cooperation-Driven, Socio-Scientific Issue Intervention on Promoting Students' Critical Thinking and Self-Regulation in Learning Science

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wang, Hsin-Hui; Chen, Hsiang-Ting; Lin, Huann-shyang; Huang, Yu-Ning; Hong, Zuway-R

2017-01-01

This longitudinal study explored the effects of a Cooperation-driven Socioscientific Issue (CDSSI) intervention on junior high school students' perceptions of critical thinking (CT) and self-regulation (SR) in Taiwan. Forty-nine grade 7 students were randomly selected as an experimental group (EG) to attend a 3-semester 72-hour intervention; while…

Buoyancy driven mixing of miscible fluids by volumetric energy deposition of microwaves.

PubMed

Wachtor, Adam J; Mocko, Veronika; Williams, Darrick J; Goertz, Matthew P; Jebrail, Farzaneh F

2013-01-01

An experiment that seeks to investigate buoyancy driven mixing of miscible fluids by microwave volumetric energy deposition is presented. The experiment involves the use of a light, non-polar fluid that initially rests on top of a heavier fluid which is more polar. Microwaves preferentially heat the polar fluid, and its density decreases due to thermal expansion. As the microwave heating continues, the density of the lower fluid eventually becomes less than that of the upper, and buoyancy driven Rayleigh-Taylor mixing ensues. The choice of fluids is crucial to the success of the experiment, and a description is given of numerous fluid combinations considered and characterized. After careful consideration, the miscible pair of toluene/tetrahydrofuran (THF) was determined as having the best potential for successful volumetric energy deposition buoyancy driven mixing. Various single fluid calibration experiments were performed to facilitate the development of a heating theory. Thereafter, results from two-fluid mixing experiments are presented that demonstrate the capability of this novel Rayleigh-Taylor driven experiment. Particular interest is paid to the onset of buoyancy driven mixing and unusual aspects of the experiment in the context of typical Rayleigh-Taylor driven mixing.

Towards Sustainability and Scalability of Educational Innovations in Hydrology:What is the Value and who is the Customer?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deshotel, M.; Habib, E. H.

2016-12-01

There is an increasing desire by the water education community to use emerging research resources and technological advances in order to reform current educational practices. Recent years have witnessed some exemplary developments that tap into emerging hydrologic modeling and data sharing resources, innovative digital and visualization technologies, and field experiences. However, such attempts remain largely at the scale of individual efforts and fall short of meeting scalability and sustainability solutions. This can be attributed to number of reasons such as inadequate experience with modeling and data-based educational developments, lack of faculty time to invest in further developments, and lack of resources to further support the project. Another important but often-overlooked reason is the lack of adequate insight on the actual needs of end-users of such developments. Such insight is highly critical to inform how to scale and sustain educational innovations. In this presentation, we share with the hydrologic community experiences gathered from an ongoing experiment where the authors engaged in a hypothesis-driven, customer-discovery process to inform the scalability and sustainability of educational innovations in the field of hydrology and water resources education. The experiment is part of a program called Innovation Corps for Learning (I-Corps L). This program follows a business model approach where a value proposition is initially formulated on the educational innovation. The authors then engaged in a hypothesis-validation process through an intense series of customer interviews with different segments of potential end users, including junior/senior students, student interns, and hydrology professors. The authors also sought insight from engineering firms by interviewing junior engineers and their supervisors to gather feedback on the preparedness of graduating engineers as they enter the workforce in the area of water resources. Exploring the large landscape of potential users is critical in formulating a user-driven approach that can inform the innovation development. The presentation shares the results of this experiment and the insight gained and discusses how such information can inform the community on sustaining and scaling hydrology educational developments.

Giant Electric Field Enhancement in Split Ring Resonators Featuring Nanometer-Sized Gaps

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bagiante, S.; Enderli, F.; Fabiańska, J.; Sigg, H.; Feurer, T.

2015-01-01

Today's pulsed THz sources enable us to excite, probe, and coherently control the vibrational or rotational dynamics of organic and inorganic materials on ultrafast time scales. Driven by standard laser sources THz electric field strengths of up to several MVm-1 have been reported and in order to reach even higher electric field strengths the use of dedicated electric field enhancement structures has been proposed. Here, we demonstrate resonant electric field enhancement structures, which concentrate the incident electric field in sub-diffraction size volumes and show an electric field enhancement as high as ~14,000 at 50 GHz. These values have been confirmed through a combination of near-field imaging experiments and electromagnetic simulations.

On the sub-band gap optical absorption in heat treated cadmium sulphide thin film deposited on glass by chemical bath deposition technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chattopadhyay, P.; Karim, B.; Guha Roy, S.

2013-12-01

The sub-band gap optical absorption in chemical bath deposited cadmium sulphide thin films annealed at different temperatures has been critically analyzed with special reference to Urbach relation. It has been found that the absorption co-efficient of the material in the sub-band gap region is nearly constant up to a certain critical value of the photon energy. However, as the photon energy exceeds the critical value, the absorption coefficient increases exponentially indicating the dominance of Urbach rule. The absorption coefficients in the constant absorption region and the Urbach region have been found to be sensitive to annealing temperature. A critical examination of the temperature dependence of the absorption coefficient indicates two different kinds of optical transitions to be operative in the sub-band gap region. After a careful analyses of SEM images, energy dispersive x-ray spectra, and the dc current-voltage characteristics, we conclude that the absorption spectra in the sub-band gap domain is possibly associated with optical transition processes involving deep levels and the grain boundary states of the material.

Intermixing between HfO{sub 2} and GeO{sub 2} films deposited on Ge(001) and Si(001): Role of the substrate

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

Soares, G. V.; Krug, C.; Miotti, L.

2011-03-28

Thermally driven atomic transport in HfO{sub 2}/GeO{sub 2}/substrate structures on Ge(001) and Si(001) was investigated in N{sub 2} ambient as function of annealing temperature and time. As-deposited stacks showed no detectable intermixing and no instabilities were observed on Si. On Ge, loss of O and Ge was detected in all annealed samples, presumably due to evolution of GeO from the GeO{sub 2}/Ge interface. In addition, hafnium germanate is formed at 600 deg. C. Our data indicate that at 500 deg. C and above HfO{sub 2}/GeO{sub 2} stacks are stable only if isolated from the Ge substrate.

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

Agosta, C. C.; Jin, J.; Coniglio, W. A.

We present upper critical field data for {kappa}-(BEDT-TTF){sub 2}Cu(NCS){sub 2} with the magnetic field close to parallel and parallel to the conducting layers. We show that we can eliminate the effect of vortex dynamics in these layered materials if the layers are oriented within 0.3-inch of parallel to the applied magnetic field. Eliminating vortex effects leaves one remaining feature in the data that corresponds to the Pauli paramagnetic limit (H{sub p}). We propose a semiempirical method to calculate the H{sub p} in quasi-2D superconductors. This method takes into account the energy gap of each of the quasi-2D superconductors, which ismore » calculated from specific-heat data, and the influence of many-body effects. The calculated Pauli paramagnetic limits are then compared to critical field data for the title compound and other organic conductors. Many of the examined quasi-2D superconductors, including the above organic superconductors and CeCoIn{sub 5}, exhibit upper critical fields that exceed their calculated H{sub p} suggesting unconventional superconductivity. We show that the high-field low-temperature state in {kappa}-(BEDT-TTF){sub 2}Cu(NCS){sub 2} is consistent with the Fulde-Ferrell-Larkin-Ovchinnikov state.« less

Instructional control of reinforcement learning: A behavioral and neurocomputational investigation

PubMed Central

Doll, Bradley B.; Jacobs, W. Jake; Sanfey, Alan G.; Frank, Michael J.

2011-01-01

Humans learn how to behave directly through environmental experience and indirectly through rules and instructions. Behavior analytic research has shown that instructions can control behavior, even when such behavior leads to sub-optimal outcomes (Hayes, S. (Ed.). 1989. Rule-governed behavior: cognition, contingencies, and instructional control. Plenum Press.). Here we examine the control of behavior through instructions in a reinforcement learning task known to depend on striatal dopaminergic function. Participants selected between probabilistically reinforced stimuli, and were (incorrectly) told that a specific stimulus had the highest (or lowest) reinforcement probability. Despite experience to the contrary, instructions drove choice behavior. We present neural network simulations that capture the interactions between instruction-driven and reinforcement-driven behavior via two potential neural circuits: one in which the striatum is inaccurately trained by instruction representations coming from prefrontal cortex/hippocampus (PFC/HC), and another in which the striatum learns the environmentally based reinforcement contingencies, but is “overridden” at decision output. Both models capture the core behavioral phenomena but, because they differ fundamentally on what is learned, make distinct predictions for subsequent behavioral and neuroimaging experiments. Finally, we attempt to distinguish between the proposed computational mechanisms governing instructed behavior by fitting a series of abstract “Q-learning” and Bayesian models to subject data. The best-fitting model supports one of the neural models, suggesting the existence of a “confirmation bias” in which the PFC/HC system trains the reinforcement system by amplifying outcomes that are consistent with instructions while diminishing inconsistent outcomes. PMID:19595993

Dark Matter Particle Spectroscopy at the LHC: Generalizing M(T2) to Asymmetric Event Topologies

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

Konar, Partha; /Florida U.; Kong, Kyoungchul

2012-04-03

We consider SUSY-like missing energy events at hadron colliders and critically examine the common assumption that the missing energy is the result of two identical missing particles. In order to experimentally test this hypothesis, we generalize the subsystem M{sub T2} variable to the case of asymmetric event topologies, where the two SUSY decay chains terminate in different 'children' particles. In this more general approach, the endpoint M{sub T2(max)} of the M{sub T2} distribution now gives the mass {tilde M}p({tilde M}{sub c}{sup (a)}, {tilde M}{sub c}{sup (b)}) of the parent particles as a function of two input children masses {tilde M}{submore » c}{sup (a)} and {tilde M}{sub c}{sup (b)}. We propose two methods for an independent determination of the individual children masses M{sub c}{sup (a)} and M{sub c}{sup (b)}. First, in the presence of upstream transverse momentum PUTM the corresponding function {tilde M}p({tilde M}{sub c}{sup (a)}, {tilde M}{sub c}{sup (b)}, P{sub UTM}) is independent of P{sub UTM} at precisely the right values of the children masses. Second, the previously discussed MT2 'kink' is now generalized to a 'ridge' on the 2-dimensional surface {tilde M}p({tilde M}{sub c}{sup (a)}, {tilde M}{sub c}{sup (b)}). As we show in several examples, quite often there is a special point along that ridge which marks the true values of the children masses. Our results allow collider experiments to probe a multi-component dark matter sector directly and without any theoretical prejudice.« less

Synthesis and characterization of indium doped La{sub 3}Co{sub 4}Sn{sub 13} skutterudite superconductor

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

Neha, P.; Srivastava, P.; Shruti,

2016-05-06

We report the synthesis and characterization of a novel superconductor La{sub 3}Co{sub 4}Sn{sub 12.35}In{sub 0.65} by Indium doping at Tin site in parent compound La{sub 3}Co{sub 4}Sn{sub 13}. We observe enhanced T{sub c} along with improved superconducting properties as onset compared to parent compound. By transport measurements we get superconducting transition with T{sub c}{sup onset} = 4.7 K and T{sub c}{sup zero} = 3.2 K. In magnetization measurements (ZFC-FC) superconducting transition is observed at 5.1 K. Upper critical field (H{sub c2}) and lower critical field (H{sub c1}) calculated by magneto resistance and M-H loop measurement are found to be 1.65more » T and 0.0026 T respectively. Hall measurement shows the majority charge carrier as electrons with carrier density of the order of 10{sup 19} cm{sup −3}. TEP measurement also support the Hall data as the Seebeck coefficient is negative over whole temperature range of measurement.« less

Construction Of Critical Thinking Skills Test Instrument Related The Concept On Sound Wave

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mabruroh, F.; Suhandi, A.

2017-02-01

This study aimed to construct test instrument of critical thinking skills of high school students related the concept on sound wave. This research using a mixed methods with sequential exploratory design, consists of: 1) a preliminary study; 2) design and review of test instruments. The form of test instruments in essay questions, consist of 18 questions that was divided into 5 indicators and 8 sub-indicators of the critical thinking skills expressed by Ennis, with questions that are qualitative and contextual. Phases of preliminary study include: a) policy studies; b) survey to the school; c) and literature studies. Phases of the design and review of test instruments consist of two steps, namely a draft design of test instruments include: a) analysis of the depth of teaching materials; b) the selection of indicators and sub-indicators of critical thinking skills; c) analysis of indicators and sub-indicators of critical thinking skills; d) implementation of indicators and sub-indicators of critical thinking skills; and e) making the descriptions about the test instrument. In the next phase of the review test instruments, consist of: a) writing about the test instrument; b) validity test by experts; and c) revision of test instruments based on the validator.

DETECTING PLANETARY GEOCHEMICAL CYCLES ON EXOPLANETS: ATMOSPHERIC SIGNATURES AND THE CASE OF SO{sub 2}

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

Kaltenegger, L.; Sasselov, D., E-mail: lkaltene@cfa.harvard.ed

2010-01-10

We study the spectrum of a planetary atmosphere to derive detectable features in low resolution of different global geochemical cycles on exoplanets-using the sulfur cycle as our example. We derive low-resolution detectable features for first generation space- and ground-based telescopes as a first step in comparative planetology. We assume that the surfaces and atmospheres of terrestrial exoplanets (Earth-like and super-Earths) will most often be dominated by a specific geochemical cycle. Here we concentrate on the sulfur cycle driven by outgassing of SO{sub 2} and H{sub 2}S followed by their transformation to other sulfur-bearing species, which is clearly distinguishable from themore » carbon cycle, which is driven by outgassing of CO{sub 2}. Due to increased volcanism, the sulfur cycle is potentially the dominant global geochemical cycle on dry super-Earths with active tectonics. We calculate planetary emission, reflection, and transmission spectrum from 0.4 mum to 40 mum with high and low resolution to assess detectable features using current and Archean Earth models with varying SO{sub 2} and H{sub 2}S concentrations to explore reducing and oxidizing habitable environments on rocky planets. We find specific spectral signatures that are observable with low resolution in a planetary atmosphere with high SO{sub 2} and H{sub 2}S concentration. Therefore, first generation space- and ground-based telescopes can test our understanding of geochemical cycles on rocky planets and potentially distinguish planetary environments dominated by the carbon and sulfur cycles.« less

Enrichment scale determines herbivore control of primary producers.

PubMed

Gil, Michael A; Jiao, Jing; Osenberg, Craig W

2016-03-01

Anthropogenic nutrient enrichment stimulates primary production and threatens natural communities worldwide. Herbivores may counteract deleterious effects of enrichment by increasing their consumption of primary producers. However, field tests of herbivore control are often done by adding nutrients at small (e.g., sub-meter) scales, while enrichment in real systems often occurs at much larger scales (e.g., kilometers). Therefore, experimental results may be driven by processes that are not relevant at larger scales. Using a mathematical model, we show that herbivores can control primary producer biomass in experiments by concentrating their foraging in small enriched plots; however, at larger, realistic scales, the same mechanism may not lead to herbivore control of primary producers. Instead, other demographic mechanisms are required, but these are not examined in most field studies (and may not operate in many systems). This mismatch between experiments and natural processes suggests that many ecosystems may be less resilient to degradation via enrichment than previously believed.

Cell Signaling Experiments Driven by Optical Manipulation

PubMed Central

Difato, Francesco; Pinato, Giulietta; Cojoc, Dan

2013-01-01

Cell signaling involves complex transduction mechanisms in which information released by nearby cells or extracellular cues are transmitted to the cell, regulating fundamental cellular activities. Understanding such mechanisms requires cell stimulation with precise control of low numbers of active molecules at high spatial and temporal resolution under physiological conditions. Optical manipulation techniques, such as optical tweezing, mechanical stress probing or nano-ablation, allow handling of probes and sub-cellular elements with nanometric and millisecond resolution. PicoNewton forces, such as those involved in cell motility or intracellular activity, can be measured with femtoNewton sensitivity while controlling the biochemical environment. Recent technical achievements in optical manipulation have new potentials, such as exploring the actions of individual molecules within living cells. Here, we review the progress in optical manipulation techniques for single-cell experiments, with a focus on force probing, cell mechanical stimulation and the local delivery of active molecules using optically manipulated micro-vectors and laser dissection. PMID:23698758

Planetesimal Formation by the Streaming Instability in a Photoevaporating Disk

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

Carrera, Daniel; Johansen, Anders; Davies, Melvyn B.

2017-04-10

Recent years have seen growing interest in the streaming instability as a candidate mechanism to produce planetesimals. However, these investigations have been limited to small-scale simulations. We now present the results of a global protoplanetary disk evolution model that incorporates planetesimal formation by the streaming instability, along with viscous accretion, photoevaporation by EUV, FUV, and X-ray photons, dust evolution, the water ice line, and stratified turbulence. Our simulations produce massive (60–130 M {sub ⊕}) planetesimal belts beyond 100 au and up to ∼20 M {sub ⊕} of planetesimals in the middle regions (3–100 au). Our most comprehensive model forms 8more » M {sub ⊕} of planetesimals inside 3 au, where they can give rise to terrestrial planets. The planetesimal mass formed in the inner disk depends critically on the timing of the formation of an inner cavity in the disk by high-energy photons. Our results show that the combination of photoevaporation and the streaming instability are efficient at converting the solid component of protoplanetary disks into planetesimals. Our model, however, does not form enough early planetesimals in the inner and middle regions of the disk to give rise to giant planets and super-Earths with gaseous envelopes. Additional processes such as particle pileups and mass loss driven by MHD winds may be needed to drive the formation of early planetesimal generations in the planet-forming regions of protoplanetary disks.« less

Recent variations in Amazon carbon balance driven by climate anomalies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miller, J. B.

2015-12-01

Understanding tropical rainforest response to heat and drought is critical for quantifying the effects of climate change on tropical ecosystems, including global climate-carbon feedbacks. Of particular importance for the global carbon budget is net ecosystem exchange of CO2 with the atmosphere (NEE), a metric that represents the total integrated signal of carbon fluxes into and out of ecosystems. Sub-annual and sub-basin NEE estimates have previously been derived from process-based biosphere models, despite often disagreeing with plot-scale observations. Our analysis of airborne CO2 and CO measurements reveals monthly, sub-Basin scale (~106 km2) NEE variations in a framework that is largely independent of bottom-up estimates. As such, our approach provides new insights about tropical forest response to climate. We find acute sensitivity of NEE to daily and monthly climate extremes. In particular, increased central-Amazon NEE was associated with wet-season heat and dry-season drought in 2010. We analyze satellite proxies for photosynthesis and find that suppression of photosynthesis may have contributed to increased carbon loss in the 2010 drought, consistent with recent analysis of plot-scale measurements. In the eastern Amazon, pulses of increased NEE (i.e. net respiration) persisted through 2011, suggesting legacy effects of the drought that occurred in 2010. Regional differences in post-drought recovery in 2011 and 2012 appear related to long-term water availability. These results provide novel evidence of the vulnerability of Amazon carbon stocks to short-term temperature and moisture extremes.

Evolution of Local Microstructures (ELMS): Spatial Instabilities of Coarsening

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Glicksman, Martin E.; Frazier, Donald O.; Rogers, Jan R.; Witherow, William K.; Downey, J. Patton; Facemire, Barbara R.

1999-01-01

This work examines the diffusional growth of discrete phase particles dispersed within a matrix. Engineering materials are microstructurally heterogeneous, and the details of the microstructure determine how well that material performs in a given application. Critical to the development of designing multiphase microstructures with long-term stability is the process of Ostwald ripening. Ripening, or phase coarsening, is a diffusion-limited process which arises in polydisperse multiphase materials. Growth and dissolution occur because fluxes of solute, driven by chemical potential gradients at the interfaces of the dispersed phase material, depend on particle size. The kinetics of these processes are "competitive," dictating that larger particles grow at the expense of smaller ones, overall leading to an increase of the average particle size. The classical treatment of phase coarsening was done by Todes, Lifshitz, and Slyozov, (TLS) in the limit of zero volume fraction, V(sub v), of the dispersed phase. Since the publication of TLS theory there have been numerous investigations, many of which sought to describe the kinetic scaling behavior over a range of volume fractions. Some studies in the literature report that the relative increase in coarsening rate at low (but not zero) volume fractions compared to that / 2 1/ 3 predicted by TLS is proportional to V(sub v)(exp 1/2), whereas others suggest V(sub v)(exp 1/3). This issue has been resolved recently by simulation studies at low volume fractions in three dimensions by members of the Rensselaer/MSFC team.

A review of laser-plasma interaction physics of indirect-drive fusion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kirkwood, R. K.; Moody, J. D.; Kline, J.; Dewald, E.; Glenzer, S.; Divol, L.; Michel, P.; Hinkel, D.; Berger, R.; Williams, E.; Milovich, J.; Yin, L.; Rose, H.; MacGowan, B.; Landen, O.; Rosen, M.; Lindl, J.

2013-10-01

The National Ignition Facility (NIF) has been designed, constructed and has recently begun operation to investigate the ignition of nuclear fusion with a laser with up to 1.8 MJ of energy per pulse. The concept for fusion ignition on the NIF, as first proposed in 1990, was based on an indirectly driven spherical capsule of fuel in a high-Z hohlraum cavity filled with low-Z gas (Lindl et al 2004 Phys. Plasmas 11 339). The incident laser energy is converted to x-rays with keV energy on the hohlraums interior wall. The x-rays then impinge on the surface of the capsule, imploding it and producing the fuel conditions needed for ignition. It was recognized at the inception that this approach would potentially be susceptible to scattering of the incident light by the plasma created in the gas and the ablated material in the hohlraum interior. Prior to initial NIF operations, expectations for laser-plasma interaction (LPI) in ignition-scale experiments were based on experimentally benchmarked simulations and models of the plasma effects that had been carried out as part of the original proposal for NIF and expanded during the 13-year design and construction period. The studies developed the understanding of the stimulated Brillouin scatter, stimulated Raman scatter and filamentation that can be driven by the intense beams. These processes produce scatter primarily in both the forward and backward direction, and by both individual beams and collective interaction of multiple beams. Processes such as hot electron production and plasma formation and transport were also studied. The understanding of the processes so developed was the basis for the design and planning of the recent experiments in the ignition campaign at NIF, and not only indicated that the plasma instabilities could be controlled to maximize coupling, but predicted that, for the first time, they would be beneficial in controlling drive symmetry. The understanding is also now a critical component in the worldwide effort to produce a fusion energy source with a laser (Lindl et al 2011 Nucl. Fusion 51 094024, Collins et al 2012 Phys. Plasmas 19 056308) and has recently received its most critical test yet with the inception of the NIF experiments with ignition-scale indirect-drive targets (Landen et al 2010 Phys. Plasmas 17 056301, Edwards et al 2011 Phys. Plasmas 18 051003, Glenzer et al 2011 Phys. Rev. Lett. 106 085004, Haan et al 2011 Phys. Plasmas 18 051001, Landen et al 2011 Phys. Plasmas 18 051001, Lindl et al 2011 Nucl. Fusion 51 094024). In this paper, the data obtained in the first complete series of coupling experiments in ignition-scale hohlraums is reviewed and compared with the preceding work on the physics of LPIs with the goal of recognizing aspects of our understanding that are confirmed by these experiments and recognizing and motivating areas that need further modeling. Understanding these hohlraum coupling experiments is critical as they are only the first step in a campaign to study indirectly driven implosions under the conditions of ignition by inertial confinement at NIF, and in the near future they are likely to further influence ignition plans and experimental designs.

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

Wu, Q., E-mail: wuq@impcas.ac.cn; Ma, H. Y.; Yang, Y.

Two compact intense 2.45 GHz permanent magnet proton sources and their corresponding low energy beam transport (LEBT) system were developed successfully for China accelerator driven sub-critical system in 2014. Both the proton sources operate at 35 kV potential. The beams extracted from the ion source are transported by the LEBT, which is composed of two identical solenoids, to the 2.1 MeV Radio-Frequency Quadrupole (RFQ). In order to ensure the safety of the superconducting cavities during commissioning, an electrostatic-chopper has been designed and installed in the LEBT line that can chop the continuous wave beam into a pulsed one. The minimummore » width of the pulse is less than 10 μs and the fall/rise time of the chopper is about 20 ns. The performance of the proton source and the LEBT, such as beam current, beam profile, emittance and the impact to RFQ injection will be presented.« less

Robust H(∞) positional control of 2-DOF robotic arm driven by electro-hydraulic servo system.

PubMed

Guo, Qing; Yu, Tian; Jiang, Dan

2015-11-01

In this paper an H∞ positional feedback controller is developed to improve the robust performance under structural and parametric uncertainty disturbance in electro-hydraulic servo system (EHSS). The robust control model is described as the linear state-space equation by upper linear fractional transformation. According to the solution of H∞ sub-optimal control problem, the robust controller is designed and simplified to lower order linear model which is easily realized in EHSS. The simulation and experimental results can validate the robustness of this proposed method. The comparison result with PI control shows that the robust controller is suitable for this EHSS under the critical condition where the desired system bandwidth is higher and the external load of the hydraulic actuator is closed to its limited capability. Copyright © 2015 ISA. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Reflection high energy electron diffraction observation of surface mass transport at the two- to three-dimensional growth transition of InAs on GaAs(001)

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

Patella, F.; Arciprete, F.; Fanfoni, M.

2005-12-19

We have followed by reflection high-energy electron diffraction the nucleation of InAs quantum dots on GaAs(001), grown by molecular-beam epitaxy with growth interruptions. Surface mass transport gives rise, at the critical InAs thickness, to a huge nucleation of three-dimensional islands within 0.2 monolayers (ML). Such surface mass diffusion has been evidenced by observing the transition of the reflection high-energy electron diffraction pattern from two- to three-dimensional during the growth interruption after the deposition of 1.59 ML of InAs. It is suggested that the process is driven by the As{sub 2} adsorption-desorption process and by the lowering of the In bindingmore » energy due to compressive strain. The last condition is met first in the region surrounding dots at step edges where nucleation predominantly occurs.« less

Real-Time Phase Correction Based on FPGA in the Beam Position and Phase Measurement System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Xingshun; Zhao, Lei; Liu, Jinxin; Jiang, Zouyi; Hu, Xiaofang; Liu, Shubin; An, Qi

2016-12-01

A fully digital beam position and phase measurement (BPPM) system was designed for the linear accelerator (LINAC) in Accelerator Driven Sub-critical System (ADS) in China. Phase information is obtained from the summed signals from four pick-ups of the Beam Position Monitor (BPM). Considering that the delay variations of different analog circuit channels would introduce phase measurement errors, we propose a new method to tune the digital waveforms of four channels before summation and achieve real-time error correction. The process is based on the vector rotation method and implemented within one single Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) device. Tests were conducted to evaluate this correction method and the results indicate that a phase correction precision better than ± 0.3° over the dynamic range from -60 dBm to 0 dBm is achieved.

LBE water interaction in sub-critical reactors: First experimental and modelling results

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ciampichetti, A.; Agostini, P.; Benamati, G.; Bandini, G.; Pellini, D.; Forgione, N.; Oriolo, F.; Ambrosini, W.

2008-06-01

This paper concerns the study of the phenomena involved in the interaction between LBE and pressurised water which could occur in some hypothetical accidents in accelerator driven system type reactors. The LIFUS 5 facility was designed and built at ENEA-Brasimone to reproduce this kind of interaction in a wide range of conditions. The first test of the experimental program was carried out injecting water at 70 bar and 235 °C in a reaction vessel containing LBE at 1 bar and 350 °C. A pressurisation up to 80 bar was observed in the test section during the considered transient. The SIMMER III code was used to simulate the performed test. The calculated data agree in a satisfactory way with the experimental results giving confidence in the possibility to use this code for safety analyses of heavy liquid metal cooled reactors.

Calculation and analysis of cross-sections for p+184W reactions up to 200 MeV

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Jian-Ping; Zhang, Zheng-Jun; Han, Yin-Lu

2015-08-01

A set of optimal proton optical potential parameters for p+ 184W reactions are obtained at incident proton energy up to 250 MeV. Based on these parameters, the reaction cross-sections, elastic scattering angular distributions, energy spectra and double differential cross sections of proton-induced reactions on 184W are calculated and analyzed by using theoretical models which integrate the optical model, distorted Born wave approximation theory, intra-nuclear cascade model, exciton model, Hauser-Feshbach theory and evaporation model. The calculated results are compared with existing experimental data and good agreement is achieved. Supported by National Basic Research Program of China, Technology Research of Accelerator Driven Sub-critical System for Nuclear Waste Transmutation (2007CB209903) and Strategic Priority Research Program of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Thorium Molten Salt Reactor Nuclear Energy System (XDA02010100)

Qualification of a sublimation tool applied to the case of metalorganic chemical vapor deposition of In{sub 2}O{sub 3} from In(tmhd){sub 3} as a solid precursor

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

Szkutnik, P. D., E-mail: pierre.szkutnik@cea.fr; Jiménez, C.; Angélidès, L.

2016-02-15

A solid delivery system consisting of a source canister, a gas management, and temperature controlled enclosure designed and manufactured by Air Liquide Electronics Systems was tested in the context of gas-phase delivery of the In(tmhd){sub 3} solid precursor. The precursor stream was delivered to a thermal metalorganic chemical vapor deposition reactor to quantify deposition yield under various conditions of carrier gas flow and sublimation temperature. The data collected allowed the determination of characteristic parameters such as the maximum precursor flow rate (18.2 mg min{sup −1} in specified conditions) and the critical mass (defined as the minimum amount of precursor ablemore » to attain the maximum flow rate) found to be about 2.4 g, as well as an understanding of the influence of powder distribution inside the canister. Furthermore, this qualification enabled the determination of optimal delivery conditions which allowed for stable and reproducible precursor flow rates over long deposition times (equivalent to more than 47 h of experiment). The resulting In{sub 2}O{sub 3} layers was compared with those elaborated via pulsed liquid injection obtained in the same chemical vapor deposition chamber and under the same deposition conditions.« less

Convection Effects During Bulk Transparent Alloy Solidification in DECLIC-DSI and Phase-Field Simulations in Diffusive Conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mota, F. L.; Song, Y.; Pereda, J.; Billia, B.; Tourret, D.; Debierre, J.-M.; Trivedi, R.; Karma, A.; Bergeon, N.

2017-08-01

To study the dynamical formation and evolution of cellular and dendritic arrays under diffusive growth conditions, three-dimensional (3D) directional solidification experiments were conducted in microgravity on a model transparent alloy onboard the International Space Station using the Directional Solidification Insert in the DEvice for the study of Critical LIquids and Crystallization. Selected experiments were repeated on Earth under gravity-driven fluid flow to evidence convection effects. Both radial and axial macrosegregation resulting from convection are observed in ground experiments, and primary spacings measured on Earth and microgravity experiments are noticeably different. The microgravity experiments provide unique benchmark data for numerical simulations of spatially extended pattern formation under diffusive growth conditions. The results of 3D phase-field simulations highlight the importance of accurately modeling thermal conditions that strongly influence the front recoil of the interface and the selection of the primary spacing. The modeling predictions are in good quantitative agreements with the microgravity experiments.

Experiences and needs of parents of critically injured children during the acute hospital phase: A qualitative investigation.

PubMed

Foster, Kim; Young, Alexandra; Mitchell, Rebecca; Van, Connie; Curtis, Kate

2017-01-01

Physical injury is a leading cause of death and disability among children worldwide and the largest cause of paediatric hospital admission. Parents of critically injured children are at increased risk of developing mental and emotional distress in the aftermath of child injury. In the Australian context, there is limited evidence on parent experiences of child injury and hospitalisation, and minimal understanding of their support needs. The aim of this investigation was to explore parents' experiences of having a critically injured child during the acute hospitalisation phase of injury, and to determine their support needs during this time. This multi-centre study forms part of a larger longitudinal mixed methods study investigating the experiences, unmet needs and well-being of parents of critically injured children over the two-year period following injury. This paper describes parents' experiences of having a child 0-13 years hospitalised with critical injury in one of four Australian paediatric hospitals. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with forty parents and transcribed verbatim. The data were managed using NVIVO 10 software and thematically analysed. Forty parents (26 mothers and 14 fathers) of 30 children (14 girls and 16 boys aged 1-13 years) from three Australian States participated. The majority of children were Australian born. Three main themes with sub-themes were identified: navigating the crisis of child injury; coming to terms with the complexity of child injury; and finding ways to meet the family's needs. There is a need for targeted psychological care provision for parents of critically injured children in the acute hospital phase, including psychological first aid and addressing parental blame attribution. Parents and children would benefit from the implementation of anticipatory guidance frameworks informed by a family-centred social ecological approach to prepare them for the trauma journey and for discharge. This approach could inform care delivery throughout the child injury recovery trajectory. The development and implementation of a major trauma family support coordinator in paediatric trauma centres would make a tangible difference to the care of critically injured children and their families. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Most atolls will be uninhabitable by the mid-21st century because of sea-level rise exacerbating wave-driven flooding

USGS Publications Warehouse

Storlazzi, Curt; Gingerich, Stephen B.; van Dongeren, Ap; Cheriton, Olivia; Swarzenski, Peter W.; Quataert, Ellen; Voss, Clifford I.; Field, Donald W.; Annamalai, Hariharasubramanian; Piniak, Greg A.; McCall, Robert T.

2018-01-01

Sea levels are rising, with the highest rates in the tropics, where thousands of low-lying coral atoll islands are located. Most studies on the resilience of these islands to sea-level rise have projected that they will experience minimal inundation impacts until at least the end of the 21st century. However, these have not taken into account the additional hazard of wave-driven overwash or its impact on freshwater availability. We project the impact of sea-level rise and wave-driven flooding on atoll infrastructure and freshwater availability under a variety of climate change scenarios. We show that, on the basis of current greenhouse gas emission rates, the nonlinear interactions between sea-level rise and wave dynamics over reefs will lead to the annual wave-driven overwash of most atoll islands by the mid-21st century. This annual flooding will result in the islands becoming uninhabitable because of frequent damage to infrastructure and the inability of their freshwater aquifers to recover between overwash events. This study provides critical information for understanding the timing and magnitude of climate change impacts on atoll islands that will result in significant, unavoidable geopolitical issues if it becomes necessary to abandon and relocate low-lying island states.

Most atolls will be uninhabitable by the mid-21st century because of sea-level rise exacerbating wave-driven flooding.

PubMed

Storlazzi, Curt D; Gingerich, Stephen B; van Dongeren, Ap; Cheriton, Olivia M; Swarzenski, Peter W; Quataert, Ellen; Voss, Clifford I; Field, Donald W; Annamalai, Hariharasubramanian; Piniak, Greg A; McCall, Robert

2018-04-01

Sea levels are rising, with the highest rates in the tropics, where thousands of low-lying coral atoll islands are located. Most studies on the resilience of these islands to sea-level rise have projected that they will experience minimal inundation impacts until at least the end of the 21st century. However, these have not taken into account the additional hazard of wave-driven overwash or its impact on freshwater availability. We project the impact of sea-level rise and wave-driven flooding on atoll infrastructure and freshwater availability under a variety of climate change scenarios. We show that, on the basis of current greenhouse gas emission rates, the nonlinear interactions between sea-level rise and wave dynamics over reefs will lead to the annual wave-driven overwash of most atoll islands by the mid-21st century. This annual flooding will result in the islands becoming uninhabitable because of frequent damage to infrastructure and the inability of their freshwater aquifers to recover between overwash events. This study provides critical information for understanding the timing and magnitude of climate change impacts on atoll islands that will result in significant, unavoidable geopolitical issues if it becomes necessary to abandon and relocate low-lying island states.

Most atolls will be uninhabitable by the mid-21st century because of sea-level rise exacerbating wave-driven flooding

PubMed Central

2018-01-01

Sea levels are rising, with the highest rates in the tropics, where thousands of low-lying coral atoll islands are located. Most studies on the resilience of these islands to sea-level rise have projected that they will experience minimal inundation impacts until at least the end of the 21st century. However, these have not taken into account the additional hazard of wave-driven overwash or its impact on freshwater availability. We project the impact of sea-level rise and wave-driven flooding on atoll infrastructure and freshwater availability under a variety of climate change scenarios. We show that, on the basis of current greenhouse gas emission rates, the nonlinear interactions between sea-level rise and wave dynamics over reefs will lead to the annual wave-driven overwash of most atoll islands by the mid-21st century. This annual flooding will result in the islands becoming uninhabitable because of frequent damage to infrastructure and the inability of their freshwater aquifers to recover between overwash events. This study provides critical information for understanding the timing and magnitude of climate change impacts on atoll islands that will result in significant, unavoidable geopolitical issues if it becomes necessary to abandon and relocate low-lying island states. PMID:29707635

Evaluation in the Design of Complex Systems

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ho, Li-An; Schwen, Thomas M.

2006-01-01

We identify literature that argues the process of creating knowledge-based system is often imbalanced. In most knowledge-based systems, development is often technology-driven instead of requirement-driven. Therefore, we argue designers must recognize that evaluation is a critical link in the application of requirement-driven development models…

A NOVEL CO{sub 2} SEPARATION SYSTEM

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

Robert J. Copeland

2000-03-01

Because of concern over global climate change, new systems are needed that produce electricity from fossil fuels and emit less CO{sub 2}. The fundamental problem with current systems which recover and concentrate CO{sub 2} from flue gases is the need to separate dilute CO{sub 2} and pressurize it to roughly 35 atm for storage or sequestration. This is an energy intensive process that can reduce plant efficiency by 9-37% and double the cost of electricity. There are two fundamental reasons for the current high costs of power consumption, CO{sub 2} removal, and concentration systems: (1) most disposal, storage and sequesteringmore » systems require high pressure CO{sub 2} (at roughly 35 atm). Thus, assuming 90% removal of the CO{sub 2} from a typical atmospheric pressure flue gas that contains 10% CO{sub 2}, the CO{sub 2} is essentially being compressed from 0.01 atm to 35 atm (a pressure ratio of 3,500). This is a very energy intensive process. (2) The absorption-based (amine) separation processes that are used to remove the CO{sub 2} from the flue gas and compress it to 1 atm consume approximately 10 times as much energy as the theoretical work of compression because they are heat driven cycles working over a very low temperature difference. Thus, to avoid the problems of current systems, we need a power cycle in which the CO{sub 2} produced by the oxidation of the fuel is not diluted with a large excess of nitrogen, a power cycle which would allow us to eliminate the very inefficient thermally driven absorption/desorption step. In addition, we would want the CO{sub 2} to be naturally available at high pressure (approximately 3 to 6 atmospheres), which would allow us to greatly reduce the compression ratio between generation and storage (from roughly 3,500 to approximately 8).« less

A NOVEL CO{sub 2} SEPARATION SYSTEM

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

Robert J. Copeland

2000-05-01

Because of concern over global climate change, new systems are needed that produce electricity from fossil fuels and emit less CO{sub 2}. The fundamental problem with current systems which recover and concentrate CO{sub 2} from flue gases is the need to separate dilute CO{sub 2} and pressurize it to roughly 35 atm for storage or sequestration. This is an energy intensive process that can reduce plant efficiency by 9-37% and double the cost of electricity. There are two fundamental reasons for the current high costs of power consumption, CO{sub 2} removal, and concentration systems: (1) most disposal, storage and sequesteringmore » systems require high pressure CO{sub 2} (at roughly 35 atm). Thus, assuming 90% removal of the CO{sub 2} from a typical atmospheric pressure flue gas that contains 10% CO{sub 2}, the CO{sub 2} is essentially being compressed from 0.01 atm to 35 atm (a pressure ratio of 3,500). This is a very energy intensive process. (2) The absorption-based (amine) separation processes that are used to remove the CO{sub 2} from the flue gas and compress it to 1 atm consume approximately 10 times as much energy as the theoretical work of compression because they are heat driven cycles working over a very low temperature difference. Thus, to avoid the problems of current systems, we need a power cycle in which the CO{sub 2} produced by the oxidation of the fuel is not diluted with a large excess of nitrogen, a power cycle which would allow us to eliminate the very inefficient thermally driven absorption/desorption step. In addition, we would want the CO{sub 2} to be naturally available at high pressure (approximately 3 to 6 atmospheres), which would allow us to greatly reduce the compression ratio between generation and storage (from roughly 3,500 to approximately 8).« less

A NOVEL CO{sub 2} SEPARATION SYSTEM

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

Robert J. Copeland

2000-08-01

Because of concern over global climate change, new systems are needed that produce electricity from fossil fuels and emit less CO{sub 2}. The fundamental problem with current systems which recover and concentrate CO{sub 2} from flue gases is the need to separate dilute CO{sub 2} and pressurize it to roughly 35 atm for storage or sequestration. This is an energy intensive process that can reduce plant efficiency by 9-37% and double the cost of electricity. There are two fundamental reasons for the current high costs of power consumption, CO{sub 2} removal, and concentration systems: (1) most disposal, storage and sequesteringmore » systems require high pressure CO{sub 2} (at roughly 35 atm). Thus, assuming 90% removal of the CO{sub 2} from a typical atmospheric pressure flue gas that contains 10% CO{sub 2}, the CO{sub 2} is essentially being compressed from 0.01 atm to 35 atm (a pressure ratio of 3,500). This is a very energy intensive process. (2) The absorption-based (amine) separation processes that are used to remove the CO{sub 2} from the flue gas and compress it to 1 atm consume approximately 10 times as much energy as the theoretical work of compression because they are heat driven cycles working over a very low temperature difference. Thus, to avoid the problems of current systems, we need a power cycle in which the CO{sub 2} produced by the oxidation of the fuel is not diluted with a large excess of nitrogen, a power cycle which would allow us to eliminate the very inefficient thermally driven absorption/desorption step. In addition, we would want the CO{sub 2} to be naturally available at high pressure (approximately 3 to 6 atmospheres), which would allow us to greatly reduce the compression ratio between generation and storage (from roughly 3,500 to approximately 8).« less

Low-loss integrated electrical surface plasmon source with ultra-smooth metal film fabricated by polymethyl methacrylate 'bond and peel' method.

PubMed

Liu, Wenjie; Hu, Xiaolong; Zou, Qiushun; Wu, Shaoying; Jin, Chongjun

2018-06-15

External light sources are mostly employed to functionalize the plasmonic components, resulting in a bulky footprint. Electrically driven integrated plasmonic devices, combining ultra-compact critical feature sizes with extremely high transmission speeds and low power consumption, can link plasmonics with the present-day electronic world. In an effort to achieve this prospect, suppressing the losses in the plasmonic devices becomes a pressing issue. In this work, we developed a novel polymethyl methacrylate 'bond and peel' method to fabricate metal films with sub-nanometer smooth surfaces on semiconductor wafers. Based on this method, we further fabricated a compact plasmonic source containing a metal-insulator-metal (MIM) waveguide with an ultra-smooth metal surface on a GaAs-based light-emitting diode wafer. An increase in propagation length of the SPP mode by a factor of 2.95 was achieved as compared with the conventional device containing a relatively rough metal surface. Numerical calculations further confirmed that the propagation length is comparable to the theoretical prediction on the MIM waveguide with perfectly smooth metal surfaces. This method facilitates low-loss and high-integration of electrically driven plasmonic devices, thus provides an immediate opportunity for the practical application of on-chip integrated plasmonic circuits.

Low-loss integrated electrical surface plasmon source with ultra-smooth metal film fabricated by polymethyl methacrylate ‘bond and peel’ method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Wenjie; Hu, Xiaolong; Zou, Qiushun; Wu, Shaoying; Jin, Chongjun

2018-06-01

External light sources are mostly employed to functionalize the plasmonic components, resulting in a bulky footprint. Electrically driven integrated plasmonic devices, combining ultra-compact critical feature sizes with extremely high transmission speeds and low power consumption, can link plasmonics with the present-day electronic world. In an effort to achieve this prospect, suppressing the losses in the plasmonic devices becomes a pressing issue. In this work, we developed a novel polymethyl methacrylate ‘bond and peel’ method to fabricate metal films with sub-nanometer smooth surfaces on semiconductor wafers. Based on this method, we further fabricated a compact plasmonic source containing a metal-insulator-metal (MIM) waveguide with an ultra-smooth metal surface on a GaAs-based light-emitting diode wafer. An increase in propagation length of the SPP mode by a factor of 2.95 was achieved as compared with the conventional device containing a relatively rough metal surface. Numerical calculations further confirmed that the propagation length is comparable to the theoretical prediction on the MIM waveguide with perfectly smooth metal surfaces. This method facilitates low-loss and high-integration of electrically driven plasmonic devices, thus provides an immediate opportunity for the practical application of on-chip integrated plasmonic circuits.

Lateral damage in graphene carved by high energy focused gallium ion beams

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

Liao, Zhongquan, E-mail: zhongquan.liao@ikts-md.fraunhofer.de; Dresden Center for Nanoanalysis; Institute for Materials Science and Max Bergmann Center of Biomaterials, Technische Universität Dresden, Hallwachsstraße 3, 01069 Dresden

2015-07-06

Raman mapping is performed to study the lateral damage in supported monolayer graphene carved by 30 keV focused Ga{sup +} beams. The evolution of the lateral damage is tracked based on the profiles of the intensity ratio between the D (1341 cm{sup −1}) and G (1582 cm{sup −1}) peaks (I{sub D}/I{sub G}) of the Raman spectra. The I{sub D}/I{sub G} profile clearly reveals the transition from stage 2 disorder into stage 1 disorder in graphene along the direction away from the carved area. The critical lateral damage distance spans from <1 μm up to more than 30 μm in the experiment, depending on the parametersmore » used for carving the graphene. The wide damage in the lateral direction is attributed to the deleterious tail of unfocused ions in the ion beam probe. The study raises the attention on potential sample damage during direct patterning of graphene nanostructures using the focused ion beam technique. Minimizing the total carving time is recommended to mitigate the lateral damage.« less

Quantitative proteomic analysis of human breast epithelial cells with differential telomere length

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

Yu, Li-Rong; Chan, King C.; Tahara, Hidetoshi

Telomeres play important functional roles in cell proliferation, cell cycle regulation, and genetic stability, in which telomere length is critical. In this study, quantitative proteome comparisons for the human breast epithelial cells with short and long telomeres (184-hTERT{sub L} vs. 184-hTERT{sub S} and 90P-hTERT{sub L} vs. 90P-hTERT{sub S}), resulting from transfection of the human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) gene, were performed using cleavable isotope-coded affinity tags. More than 2000 proteins were quantified in each comparative experiment, with approximately 77% of the proteins identified in both analyses. In the cells with long telomeres, significant and consistent alterations were observed in metabolismmore » (amino acid, nucleotide, and lipid metabolism), genetic information transmission (transcription and translation regulation, spliceosome and ribosome complexes), and cell signaling. Interestingly, the DNA excision repair pathway is enhanced, while integrin and its ligands are downregulated in the cells with long telomeres. These results may provide valuable information related to telomere functions.« less

Effect of thermo-mechanical stress during quench on Nb3Sn cable performance

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

Linda Imbasciati et al.

2002-12-09

Several high field magnets using Nb{sub 3}Sn superconductor are under development for future particle accelerators. The high levels of stored energy in these magnets can cause high peak temperatures during a quench. The thermomechanical stress generated in the winding during the fast temperature rise can result in a permanent damage of the brittle Nb{sub 3}Sn. Although there are several studies of the critical current degradation of Nb{sub 3}Sn strands due to strain, little is known about how to apply the strain limitations to define a maximum acceptable temperature in the coils during a quench. Therefore, an experimental program was launched,more » aimed at improving the understanding of the effect of thermo-mechanical stress in coils made from brittle Nb{sub 3}Sn. A first experiment, reported here, was performed on cables. The experimental results were compared to analytical and finite element models. The next step in the experimental program will be to repeat similar measurements in small racetrack coils and later in full size magnets.« less

Experimental study of linear and nonlinear regimes of density-driven instabilities induced by CO{sub 2} dissolution in water

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

Outeda, R.; D'Onofrio, A.; El Hasi, C.

Density driven instabilities produced by CO{sub 2} (gas) dissolution in water containing a color indicator were studied in a Hele Shaw cell. The images were analyzed and instability patterns were characterized by mixing zone temporal evolution, dispersion curves, and the growth rate for different CO{sub 2} pressures and different color indicator concentrations. The results obtained from an exhaustive analysis of experimental data show that this system has a different behaviour in the linear regime of the instabilities (when the growth rate has a linear dependence with time), from the nonlinear regime at longer times. At short times using a colormore » indicator to see the evolution of the pattern, the images show that the effects of both the color indicator and CO{sub 2} pressure are of the same order of magnitude: The growth rates are similar and the wave numbers are in the same range (0–30 cm{sup −1}) when the system is unstable. Although in the linear regime the dynamics is affected similarly by the presence of the indicator and CO{sub 2} pressure, in the nonlinear regime, the influence of the latter is clearly more pronounced than the effects of the color indicator.« less

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

Li Shun; School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083; Lin Yuanhua

Anatase titania-coated bismuth ferrite nanocomposites (BiFeO{sub 3}/TiO{sub 2}) have been fabricated via a hydrothermal approach combined with a hydrolysis precipitation processing. Analysis of the microstructure and phase composition reveals that a core-shell BiFeO{sub 3}/TiO{sub 2} structure can be formed, which results in a significant redshift in the UV-vis absorption spectra as compared to a simple mechanical mixture of BiFeO{sub 3}-TiO{sub 2} nanopowders. The core-shell structured BiFeO{sub 3}/TiO{sub 2} nanocomposites exhibit higher photocatalytic activity for photodegradation of Congo red under visible-light ({lambda}>400 nm) irradiation, which should be attributed to the enhancement of the quantum efficiency by separating the electrons and holesmore » effectively. The obtained BiFeO{sub 3}/TiO{sub 2} nanocomposites can be used as potential visible-light driven photocatalysts.« less

Development and validation of a critical gradient energetic particle driven Alfven eigenmode transport model for DIII-D tilted neutral beam experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Waltz, R. E.; Bass, E. M.; Heidbrink, W. W.; VanZeeland, M. A.

2015-11-01

Recent experiments with the DIII-D tilted neutral beam injection (NBI) varying the beam energetic particle (EP) source profiles have provided strong evidence that unstable Alfven eigenmodes (AE) drive stiff EP transport at a critical EP density gradient [Heidbrink et al 2013 Nucl. Fusion 53 093006]. Here the critical gradient is identified by the local AE growth rate being equal to the local ITG/TEM growth rate at the same low toroidal mode number. The growth rates are taken from the gyrokinetic code GYRO. Simulation show that the slowing down beam-like EP distribution has a slightly lower critical gradient than the Maxwellian. The ALPHA EP density transport code [Waltz and Bass 2014 Nucl. Fusion 54 104006], used to validate the model, combines the low-n stiff EP critical density gradient AE mid-core transport with the Angioni et al (2009 Nucl. Fusion 49 055013) energy independent high-n ITG/TEM density transport model controling the central core EP density profile. For the on-axis NBI heated DIII-D shot 146102, while the net loss to the edge is small, about half the birth fast ions are transported from the central core r/a  <  0.5 and the central density is about half the slowing down density. These results are in good agreement with experimental fast ion pressure profiles inferred from MSE constrained EFIT equilibria.

Critical thickness for strain relaxation of Ge{sub 1−x}Sn{sub x} (x ≤ 0.17) grown by molecular beam epitaxy on Ge(001)

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

Wang, Wei; Zhou, Qian; Dong, Yuan

We investigated the critical thickness (h{sub c}) for plastic relaxation of Ge{sub 1−x}Sn{sub x} grown by molecular beam epitaxy. Ge{sub 1−x}Sn{sub x} films with various Sn mole fraction x (x ≤ 0.17) and different thicknesses were grown on Ge(001). The strain relaxation of Ge{sub 1−x}Sn{sub x} films and the h{sub c} were investigated by high-resolution x-ray diffraction and reciprocal space mapping. It demonstrates that the measured h{sub c} values of Ge{sub 1−x}Sn{sub x} layers are as much as an order of magnitude larger than that predicted by the Matthews and Blakeslee (M-B) model. The People and Bean (P-B) model was also usedmore » to predict the h{sub c} values in Ge{sub 1−x}Sn{sub x}/Ge system. The measured h{sub c} values for various Sn content follow the trend, but slightly larger than that predicted by the P-B model.« less

Superconductivity in the system Mo{sub x}C{sub y}Ga{sub z}O{sub δ} prepared by focused ion beam induced deposition

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

Weirich, P. M., E-mail: p.weirich@Physik.uni-frankfurt.de; Schwalb, C. H.; Winhold, M.

2014-05-07

We have prepared the new amorphous superconductor Mo{sub x}C{sub y}Ga{sub z}O{sub δ} with a maximum critical temperature T{sub c} of 3.8 K by the direct-write nano-patterning technique of focused (gallium) ion beam induced deposition (FIBID) using Mo(CO){sub 6} as precursor gas. From a detailed analysis of the temperature-dependent resistivity and the upper critical field, we found clear evidence for proximity of the samples to a disorder-induced metal-insulator transition. We observed a strong dependence of T{sub c} on the deposition parameters and identified clear correlations between T{sub c}, the localization tendency visible in the resistance data and the sample composition. By anmore » in-situ feedback-controlled optimization process in the FIB-induced growth, we were able to identify the beam parameters which lead to samples with the largest T{sub c}-value and sharpest transition into the superconducting state.« less

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

Ma, Jingzhe; Gonzalez, Anthony H.; Vieira, J. D.

We present Chandra ACIS-S and Australia Telescope Compact Array (ATCA) radio continuum observations of the strongly lensed dusty, star-forming galaxy SPT-S J034640-5204.9 (hereafter SPT0346-52) at z = 5.656. This galaxy has also been observed with ALMA, HST , Spitzer , Herschel , Atacama Pathfinder EXperiment, and the Very Large Telescope. Previous observations indicate that if the infrared (IR) emission is driven by star formation, then the inferred lensing-corrected star formation rate (SFR) (∼4500 M {sub ☉} yr{sup −1}) and SFR surface density Σ{sub SFR} (∼2000 M {sub ☉} yr{sup −1} kpc{sup −2}) are both exceptionally high. It remained unclear frommore » the previous data, however, whether a central active galactic nucleus (AGN) contributes appreciably to the IR luminosity. The Chandra upper limit shows that SPT0346-52 is consistent with being star formation dominated in the X-ray, and any AGN contribution to the IR emission is negligible. The ATCA radio continuum upper limits are also consistent with the FIR-to-radio correlation for star-forming galaxies with no indication of an additional AGN contribution. The observed prodigious intrinsic IR luminosity of (3.6 ± 0.3) × 10{sup 13} L {sub ☉} originates almost solely from vigorous star formation activity. With an intrinsic source size of 0.61 ± 0.03 kpc, SPT0346-52 is confirmed to have one of the highest Σ{sub SFR} of any known galaxy. This high Σ{sub SFR}, which approaches the Eddington limit for a radiation pressure supported starburst, may be explained by a combination of very high star formation efficiency and gas fraction.« less

Deformable registration of the inflated and deflated lung in cone-beam CT-guided thoracic surgery: Initial investigation of a combined model- and image-driven approach

PubMed Central

Uneri, Ali; Nithiananthan, Sajendra; Schafer, Sebastian; Otake, Yoshito; Stayman, J. Webster; Kleinszig, Gerhard; Sussman, Marc S.; Prince, Jerry L.; Siewerdsen, Jeffrey H.

2013-01-01

Purpose: Surgical resection is the preferred modality for curative treatment of early stage lung cancer, but localization of small tumors (<10 mm diameter) during surgery presents a major challenge that is likely to increase as more early-stage disease is detected incidentally and in low-dose CT screening. To overcome the difficulty of manual localization (fingers inserted through intercostal ports) and the cost, logistics, and morbidity of preoperative tagging (coil or dye placement under CT-fluoroscopy), the authors propose the use of intraoperative cone-beam CT (CBCT) and deformable image registration to guide targeting of small tumors in video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS). A novel algorithm is reported for registration of the lung from its inflated state (prior to pleural breach) to the deflated state (during resection) to localize surgical targets and adjacent critical anatomy. Methods: The registration approach geometrically resolves images of the inflated and deflated lung using a coarse model-driven stage followed by a finer image-driven stage. The model-driven stage uses image features derived from the lung surfaces and airways: triangular surface meshes are morphed to capture bulk motion; concurrently, the airways generate graph structures from which corresponding nodes are identified. Interpolation of the sparse motion fields computed from the bounding surface and interior airways provides a 3D motion field that coarsely registers the lung and initializes the subsequent image-driven stage. The image-driven stage employs an intensity-corrected, symmetric form of the Demons method. The algorithm was validated over 12 datasets, obtained from porcine specimen experiments emulating CBCT-guided VATS. Geometric accuracy was quantified in terms of target registration error (TRE) in anatomical targets throughout the lung, and normalized cross-correlation. Variations of the algorithm were investigated to study the behavior of the model- and image-driven stages by modifying individual algorithmic steps and examining the effect in comparison to the nominal process. Results: The combined model- and image-driven registration process demonstrated accuracy consistent with the requirements of minimally invasive VATS in both target localization (∼3–5 mm within the target wedge) and critical structure avoidance (∼1–2 mm). The model-driven stage initialized the registration to within a median TRE of 1.9 mm (95% confidence interval (CI) maximum = 5.0 mm), while the subsequent image-driven stage yielded higher accuracy localization with 0.6 mm median TRE (95% CI maximum = 4.1 mm). The variations assessing the individual algorithmic steps elucidated the role of each step and in some cases identified opportunities for further simplification and improvement in computational speed. Conclusions: The initial studies show the proposed registration method to successfully register CBCT images of the inflated and deflated lung. Accuracy appears sufficient to localize the target and adjacent critical anatomy within ∼1–2 mm and guide localization under conditions in which the target cannot be discerned directly in CBCT (e.g., subtle, nonsolid tumors). The ability to directly localize tumors in the operating room could provide a valuable addition to the VATS arsenal, obviate the cost, logistics, and morbidity of preoperative tagging, and improve patient safety. Future work includes in vivo testing, optimization of workflow, and integration with a CBCT image guidance system. PMID:23298134

Deformable registration of the inflated and deflated lung in cone-beam CT-guided thoracic surgery: initial investigation of a combined model- and image-driven approach.

PubMed

Uneri, Ali; Nithiananthan, Sajendra; Schafer, Sebastian; Otake, Yoshito; Stayman, J Webster; Kleinszig, Gerhard; Sussman, Marc S; Prince, Jerry L; Siewerdsen, Jeffrey H

2013-01-01

Surgical resection is the preferred modality for curative treatment of early stage lung cancer, but localization of small tumors (<10 mm diameter) during surgery presents a major challenge that is likely to increase as more early-stage disease is detected incidentally and in low-dose CT screening. To overcome the difficulty of manual localization (fingers inserted through intercostal ports) and the cost, logistics, and morbidity of preoperative tagging (coil or dye placement under CT-fluoroscopy), the authors propose the use of intraoperative cone-beam CT (CBCT) and deformable image registration to guide targeting of small tumors in video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS). A novel algorithm is reported for registration of the lung from its inflated state (prior to pleural breach) to the deflated state (during resection) to localize surgical targets and adjacent critical anatomy. The registration approach geometrically resolves images of the inflated and deflated lung using a coarse model-driven stage followed by a finer image-driven stage. The model-driven stage uses image features derived from the lung surfaces and airways: triangular surface meshes are morphed to capture bulk motion; concurrently, the airways generate graph structures from which corresponding nodes are identified. Interpolation of the sparse motion fields computed from the bounding surface and interior airways provides a 3D motion field that coarsely registers the lung and initializes the subsequent image-driven stage. The image-driven stage employs an intensity-corrected, symmetric form of the Demons method. The algorithm was validated over 12 datasets, obtained from porcine specimen experiments emulating CBCT-guided VATS. Geometric accuracy was quantified in terms of target registration error (TRE) in anatomical targets throughout the lung, and normalized cross-correlation. Variations of the algorithm were investigated to study the behavior of the model- and image-driven stages by modifying individual algorithmic steps and examining the effect in comparison to the nominal process. The combined model- and image-driven registration process demonstrated accuracy consistent with the requirements of minimally invasive VATS in both target localization (∼3-5 mm within the target wedge) and critical structure avoidance (∼1-2 mm). The model-driven stage initialized the registration to within a median TRE of 1.9 mm (95% confidence interval (CI) maximum = 5.0 mm), while the subsequent image-driven stage yielded higher accuracy localization with 0.6 mm median TRE (95% CI maximum = 4.1 mm). The variations assessing the individual algorithmic steps elucidated the role of each step and in some cases identified opportunities for further simplification and improvement in computational speed. The initial studies show the proposed registration method to successfully register CBCT images of the inflated and deflated lung. Accuracy appears sufficient to localize the target and adjacent critical anatomy within ∼1-2 mm and guide localization under conditions in which the target cannot be discerned directly in CBCT (e.g., subtle, nonsolid tumors). The ability to directly localize tumors in the operating room could provide a valuable addition to the VATS arsenal, obviate the cost, logistics, and morbidity of preoperative tagging, and improve patient safety. Future work includes in vivo testing, optimization of workflow, and integration with a CBCT image guidance system.

CLASH: THE ENHANCED LENSING EFFICIENCY OF THE HIGHLY ELONGATED MERGING CLUSTER MACS J0416.1-2403

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

Zitrin, A.; Bartelmann, M.; Carrasco, M.

2013-01-10

We perform a strong lensing analysis of the merging galaxy cluster MACS J0416.1-2403 (M0416; z = 0.42) in recent CLASH/HST observations. We identify 70 new multiple images and candidates of 23 background sources in the range 0.7 {approx}< z{sub phot} {approx}< 6.14 including two probable high-redshift dropouts, revealing a highly elongated lens with axis ratio {approx_equal}5:1, and a major axis of {approx}100'' (z{sub s} {approx} 2). Compared to other well-studied clusters, M0416 shows an enhanced lensing efficiency. Although the critical area is not particularly large ({approx_equal} 0.6 {open_square}'; z{sub s} {approx} 2), the number of multiple images, per critical area,more » is anomalously high. We calculate that the observed elongation boosts the number of multiple images, per critical area, by a factor of {approx}2.5 Multiplication-Sign , due to the increased ratio of the caustic area relative to the critical area. Additionally, we find that the observed separation between the two main mass components enlarges the critical area by a factor of {approx}2. These geometrical effects can account for the high number (density) of multiple images observed. We find in numerical simulations that only {approx}4% of the clusters (with M{sub vir} {>=} 6 Multiplication-Sign 10{sup 14} h {sup -1} M{sub Sun }) exhibit critical curves as elongated as in M0416.« less

Electroweak baryogenesis in the exceptional supersymmetric standard model

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

Chao, Wei, E-mail: chao@physics.umass.edu

2015-08-01

We study electroweak baryogenesis in the E{sub 6} inspired exceptional supersymmetric standard model (E{sub 6}SSM). The relaxation coefficients driven by singlinos and the new gaugino as well as the transport equation of the Higgs supermultiplet number density in the E{sub 6}SSM are calculated. Our numerical simulation shows that both CP-violating source terms from singlinos and the new gaugino can solely give rise to a correct baryon asymmetry of the Universe via the electroweak baryogenesis mechanism.

Electroweak baryogenesis in the exceptional supersymmetric standard model

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

Chao, Wei

2015-08-28

We study electroweak baryogenesis in the E{sub 6} inspired exceptional supersymmetric standard model (E{sub 6}SSM). The relaxation coefficients driven by singlinos and the new gaugino as well as the transport equation of the Higgs supermultiplet number density in the E{sub 6}SSM are calculated. Our numerical simulation shows that both CP-violating source terms from singlinos and the new gaugino can solely give rise to a correct baryon asymmetry of the Universe via the electroweak baryogenesis mechanism.

Triggering collective oscillations by three-flavor effects

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

Dasgupta, Basudeb; Raffelt, Georg G.; Tamborra, Irene

2010-04-01

Collective flavor transformations in supernovae, caused by neutrino-neutrino interactions, are essentially a two-flavor phenomenon driven by the atmospheric mass difference and the small mixing angle {theta}{sub 13}. In the two-flavor approximation, the initial evolution depends logarithmically on {theta}{sub 13} and the system remains trapped in an unstable fixed point for {theta}{sub 13}=0. However, any effect breaking exact {nu}{sub {mu}-{nu}{tau}}equivalence triggers the conversion. Such three-flavor perturbations include radiative corrections to weak interactions, small differences between the {nu}{sub {mu}}and {nu}{sub {tau}}fluxes, or nonstandard interactions. Therefore, extremely small values of {theta}{sub 13} are in practice equivalent, the fate of the system depending onlymore » on the neutrino spectra and their mass ordering.« less

A multitask clustering approach for single-cell RNA-seq analysis in Recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa

PubMed Central

Petegrosso, Raphael; Tolar, Jakub

2018-01-01

Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) has been widely applied to discover new cell types by detecting sub-populations in a heterogeneous group of cells. Since scRNA-seq experiments have lower read coverage/tag counts and introduce more technical biases compared to bulk RNA-seq experiments, the limited number of sampled cells combined with the experimental biases and other dataset specific variations presents a challenge to cross-dataset analysis and discovery of relevant biological variations across multiple cell populations. In this paper, we introduce a method of variance-driven multitask clustering of single-cell RNA-seq data (scVDMC) that utilizes multiple single-cell populations from biological replicates or different samples. scVDMC clusters single cells in multiple scRNA-seq experiments of similar cell types and markers but varying expression patterns such that the scRNA-seq data are better integrated than typical pooled analyses which only increase the sample size. By controlling the variance among the cell clusters within each dataset and across all the datasets, scVDMC detects cell sub-populations in each individual experiment with shared cell-type markers but varying cluster centers among all the experiments. Applied to two real scRNA-seq datasets with several replicates and one large-scale droplet-based dataset on three patient samples, scVDMC more accurately detected cell populations and known cell markers than pooled clustering and other recently proposed scRNA-seq clustering methods. In the case study applied to in-house Recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa (RDEB) scRNA-seq data, scVDMC revealed several new cell types and unknown markers validated by flow cytometry. MATLAB/Octave code available at https://github.com/kuanglab/scVDMC. PMID:29630593

Corrosion fatigue crack growth behavior of titanium alloys in aqueous solutions

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

Shipilov, S.A.

1998-01-01

The corrosion fatigue crack growth (FCG) behavior, the effect of applied potential on corrosion FCG rates, and the fracture surfaces of VT20 (near-{alpha}) and TS6 (near-{beta}) titanium alloys were studied. Environments were aqueous solutions of sodium chloride (NaCl), sodium hydroxide (NaOH), potassium hydroxide (KOH), ferric chloride (FeCl{sub 3}), and chromic acid (H{sub 2}CrO{sub 4}) with and without NaCl. Depending upon solution composition, corrosion FCG rates were found to be higher or lower than those in air. Cathodic polarization retarded the corrosion FCG, while anodic polarization accelerated insignificantly or almost did not influence it in most of the solutions investigated. However,more » cathodic polarization accelerated corrosion FCG in 0.6 M FeCl{sub 3} and 0.5 M to 2 M H{sub 2}CrO{sub 4} + 0.01 M to 0.1 M NaCl solutions by a dozen times when the maximum stress intensity (K{sub max}) exceeded certain critical values. When K{sub max} was lower than the critical values, the same cathodic polarization (with all other /conditions being equal) retarded corrosion FCG. Results suggested the accelerated crack growth at cathodic potentials resulted from hydrogen-induced cracking (HIC). Therefore, critical values of K{sub max}, as well as the stress intensity range ({Delta}K) were regarded as corresponding to the beginning of corrosion FCG according to a HIC mechanism and designated as K{sub HIC} and {Delta}K{sub HIC}.« less

Magnetism and electronic structures of novel layered CaFeAs{sub 2} and Ca{sub 0.75}(Pr/La){sub 0.25}FeAs{sub 2}

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

Huang, Yi-Na; Zou, Liang-Jian, E-mail: zou@theory.issp.ac.cn; University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026

2015-05-07

The magnetic and electronic properties of the parent material CaFeAs{sub 2} of new superconductors are investigated using first-principles calculations. We predict that the ground state of CaFeAs{sub 2} is a spin-density-wave (SDW)-type striped antiferromagnet driven by Fermi surface nesting. The magnetic moment around each Fe atom is about 2.1 μ{sub B}. We also present electronic and magnetic structures of electron-doped phase Ca{sub 0.75}(Pr/La){sub 0.25}FeAs{sub 2}, the SDW order was suppressed by La/Pr substitution. The As in arsenic layers is negative monovalent and acts as blocking layers enhancing two-dimensional character by increasing the spacing distance between the FeAs layers. This favorsmore » strong antiferromagnetic fluctuations mediated pairing, implying higher T{sub c} in Ca{sub 0.75}(Pr/La){sub 0.25}FeAs{sub 2} than Ca{sub 0.75}(Pr/La){sub 0.25}Fe{sub 2}As{sub 2}.« less

Anomalous change in dielectric constant of CaCu{sub 3}Ti{sub 4}O{sub 12} under violet-to-ultraviolet irradiation

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

Masingboon, C.; Faculty of Science and Engineering, Kasetsart University, Chalermphrakiat Sakon Nakhon Province Campus, Sakon Nakhon 47000; Eknapakul, T.

2013-05-20

The influence of light illumination on the dielectric constant of CaCu{sub 3}Ti{sub 4}O{sub 12} (CCTO) polycrystals is studied in this work. When exposed to 405-nm laser light, a reversible enhancement in the room temperature capacitance as high as 22% was observed, suggesting application of light-sensitive capacitance devices. To uncover the microscopic mechanisms mediating this change, we performed electronic structure measurements, using photoemission spectroscopy, and measured the electrical conductivity of the CCTO samples under different conditions of light exposure and oxygen partial pressure. Together, these results suggest that the large capacitance enhancement is driven by oxygen vacancies induced by the irradiation.

Thermodynamic understanding of Sn whisker growth on the Cu surface in Cu(top)-Sn(bottom) bilayer system upon room temperature aging

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

Huang, Lin; Jian, Wei; Lin, Bing

2015-06-07

Sn whiskers are observed by scanning electron microscope on the Cu surface in Cu(top)-Sn(bottom) bilayer system upon room temperature aging. Only Cu{sub 6}Sn{sub 5} phase appears in the X-ray diffraction patterns and no Sn element is detected in the Cu sublayer by scanning transmission electron microscopy. Based on the interfacial thermodynamics, the intermetallic Cu{sub 6}Sn{sub 5} compound phase may form directly at the Sn grain boundary. Driven by the stress gradient during the formation of Cu{sub 6}Sn{sub 5} compound at Sn grain boundaries, Sn atoms segregate onto the Cu surface and accumulate to form Sn whisker.

Nonlinear verification of a linear critical gradient model for energetic particle transport by Alfven eigenmodes

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

Bass, Eric M.; Waltz, R. E.

Here, a “stiff transport” critical gradient model of energetic particle (EP) transport by EPdriven Alfven eigenmodes (AEs) is verified against local nonlinear gyrokinetic simulations of a well-studied beam-heated DIII-D discharge 146102. A greatly simplifying linear “recipe” for the limiting EP-density gradient (critical gradient) is considered here. In this recipe, the critical gradient occurs when the AE linear growth rate, driven mainly by the EP gradient, exceeds the ion temperature gradient (ITG) or trapped electron mode (TEM) growth rate, driven by the thermal plasma gradient, at the same toroidal mode number (n) as the AE peak growth, well below the ITG/TEMmore » peak n. This linear recipe for the critical gradient is validated against the critical gradient determined from far more expensive local nonlinear simulations in the gyrokinetic code GYRO, as identified by the point of transport runaway when all driving gradients are held fixed. The reduced linear model is extended to include the stabilization from equilibrium E×B velocity shear. The nonlinear verification unambiguously endorses one of two alternative recipes proposed in Ref. 1: the EP-driven AE growth rate should be determined with rather than without added thermal plasma drive.« less

Nonlinear verification of a linear critical gradient model for energetic particle transport by Alfven eigenmodes

DOE PAGES

Bass, Eric M.; Waltz, R. E.

2017-12-08

Here, a “stiff transport” critical gradient model of energetic particle (EP) transport by EPdriven Alfven eigenmodes (AEs) is verified against local nonlinear gyrokinetic simulations of a well-studied beam-heated DIII-D discharge 146102. A greatly simplifying linear “recipe” for the limiting EP-density gradient (critical gradient) is considered here. In this recipe, the critical gradient occurs when the AE linear growth rate, driven mainly by the EP gradient, exceeds the ion temperature gradient (ITG) or trapped electron mode (TEM) growth rate, driven by the thermal plasma gradient, at the same toroidal mode number (n) as the AE peak growth, well below the ITG/TEMmore » peak n. This linear recipe for the critical gradient is validated against the critical gradient determined from far more expensive local nonlinear simulations in the gyrokinetic code GYRO, as identified by the point of transport runaway when all driving gradients are held fixed. The reduced linear model is extended to include the stabilization from equilibrium E×B velocity shear. The nonlinear verification unambiguously endorses one of two alternative recipes proposed in Ref. 1: the EP-driven AE growth rate should be determined with rather than without added thermal plasma drive.« less

Understanding the Electronic Structure of 4d Metal Complexes: From Molecular Spinors to L-Edge Spectra of a di-Ru Catalyst

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

Alperovich, Igor; Smolentsev, Grigory; Moonshiram, Dooshaye

2015-09-17

L{sub 2,3}-edge X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) has demonstrated unique capabilities for the analysis of the electronic structure of di-Ru complexes such as the blue dimer cis,cis-[Ru{sub 2}{sup III}O(H{sub 2}O){sub 2}(bpy){sub 4}]{sup 4+} water oxidation catalyst. Spectra of the blue dimer and the monomeric [Ru(NH{sub 3}){sub 6}]{sup 3+} model complex show considerably different splitting of the Ru L{sub 2,3} absorption edge, which reflects changes in the relative energies of the Ru 4d orbitals caused by hybridization with a bridging ligand and spin-orbit coupling effects. To aid the interpretation of spectroscopic data, we developed a new approach, which computes L{sub 2,3}-edges XASmore » spectra as dipole transitions between molecular spinors of 4d transition metal complexes. This allows for careful inclusion of the spin-orbit coupling effects and the hybridization of the Ru 4d and ligand orbitals. The obtained theoretical Ru L{sub 2,3}-edge spectra are in close agreement with experiment. Critically, existing single-electron methods (FEFF, FDMNES) broadly used to simulate XAS could not reproduce the experimental Ru L-edge spectra for the [Ru(NH{sub 3}){sub 6}]{sup 3+} model complex nor for the blue dimer, while charge transfer multiplet (CTM) calculations were not applicable due to the complexity and low symmetry of the blue dimer water oxidation catalyst. We demonstrated that L-edge spectroscopy is informative for analysis of bridging metal complexes. The developed computational approach enhances L-edge spectroscopy as a tool for analysis of the electronic structures of complexes, materials, catalysts, and reactive intermediates with 4d transition metals.« less

Electronic Structure of Transition Metal Clusters, Actinide Complexes and Their Reactivities

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

Krishnan Balasubramanian

2009-07-18

This is a continuing DOE-BES funded project on transition metal and actinide containing species, aimed at the electronic structure and spectroscopy of transition metal and actinide containing species. While a long term connection of these species is to catalysis and environmental management of high-level nuclear wastes, the immediate relevance is directly to other DOE-BES funded experimental projects at DOE-National labs and universities. There are a number of ongoing gas-phase spectroscopic studies of these species at various places, and our computational work has been inspired by these experimental studies and we have also inspired other experimental and theoretical studies. Thus ourmore » studies have varied from spectroscopy of diatomic transition metal carbides to large complexes containing transition metals, and actinide complexes that are critical to the environment. In addition, we are continuing to make code enhancements and modernization of ALCHEMY II set of codes and its interface with relativistic configuration interaction (RCI). At present these codes can carry out multi-reference computations that included up to 60 million configurations and multiple states from each such CI expansion. ALCHEMY II codes have been modernized and converted to a variety of platforms such as Windows XP, and Linux. We have revamped the symbolic CI code to automate the MRSDCI technique so that the references are automatically chosen with a given cutoff from the CASSCF and thus we are doing accurate MRSDCI computations with 10,000 or larger reference space of configurations. The RCI code can also handle a large number of reference configurations, which include up to 10,000 reference configurations. Another major progress is in routinely including larger basis sets up to 5g functions in thee computations. Of course higher angular momenta functions can also be handled using Gaussian and other codes with other methods such as DFT, MP2, CCSD(T), etc. We have also calibrated our RECP methods with all-electron Douglas-Kroll relativistic methods. We have the capabilities for computing full CI extrapolations including spin-orbit effects and several one-electron properties and electron density maps including spin-orbit effects. We are continuously collaborating with several experimental groups around the country and at National Labs to carry out computational studies on the DOE-BES funded projects. The past work in the last 3 years was primarily motivated and driven by the concurrent or recent experimental studies on these systems. We were thus significantly benefited by coordinating our computational efforts with experimental studies. The interaction between theory and experiment has resulted in some unique and exciting opportunities. For example, for the very first time ever, the upper spin-orbit component of a heavy trimer such as Au{sub 3} was experimentally observed as a result of our accurate computational study on the upper electronic states of gold trimer. Likewise for the first time AuH{sub 2} could be observed and interpreted clearly due to our computed potential energy surfaces that revealed the existence of a large barrier to convert the isolated AuH{sub 2} back to Au and H{sub 2}. We have also worked on yet to be observed systems and have made predictions for future experiments. We have computed the spectroscopic and thermodynamic properties of transition metal carbides transition metal clusters and compared our electronic states to the anion photodetachment spectra of Lai Sheng Wang. Prof Mike Morse and coworkers(funded also by DOE-BES) and Prof Stimle and coworkers(also funded by DOE-BES) are working on the spectroscopic properties of transition metal carbides and nitrides. Our predictions on the excited states of transition metal clusters such as Hf{sub 3}, Nb{sub 2}{sup +} etc., have been confirmed experimentally by Prof. Lombardi and coworkers using resonance Raman spectroscopy. We have also been studying larger complexes critical to the environmental management of high-level nuclear wastes. In collaboration with experimental colleague Prof Hieno Nitsche (Berkeley) and Dr. Pat Allen (Livermore, EXAFS) we have studied the uranyl complexes with silicates and carbonates. It should be stressed that although our computed ionization potential of uranium oxide was in conflict with the existing experimental data at the time, a subsequent gas-phase experimental work by Prof Mike Haven and coworkers published as communication in JACS confirmed our computed result to within 0.1 eV. This provides considerable confidence that the computed results in large basis sets with highly-correlated wave functions have excellent accuracies and they have the capabilities to predict the excited states also with great accuracy. Computations of actinide complexes (Uranyl and plutonyl complexes) are critical to management of high-level nuclear wastes.« less

Emergent Self-Organized Criticality in Gene Expression Dynamics: Temporal Development of Global Phase Transition Revealed in a Cancer Cell Line

PubMed Central

Tsuchiya, Masa; Giuliani, Alessandro; Hashimoto, Midori; Erenpreisa, Jekaterina; Yoshikawa, Kenichi

2015-01-01

Background The underlying mechanism of dynamic control of the genome-wide expression is a fundamental issue in bioscience. We addressed it in terms of phase transition by a systemic approach based on both density analysis and characteristics of temporal fluctuation for the time-course mRNA expression in differentiating MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Methodology In a recent work, we suggested criticality as an essential aspect of dynamic control of genome-wide gene expression. Criticality was evident by a unimodal-bimodal transition through flattened unimodal expression profile. The flatness on the transition suggests the existence of a critical transition at which up- and down-regulated expression is balanced. Mean field (averaging) behavior of mRNAs based on the temporal expression changes reveals a sandpile type of transition in the flattened profile. Furthermore, around the transition, a self-similar unimodal-bimodal transition of the whole expression occurs in the density profile of an ensemble of mRNA expression. These singular and scaling behaviors identify the transition as the expression phase transition driven by self-organized criticality (SOC). Principal Findings Emergent properties of SOC through a mean field approach are revealed: i) SOC, as a form of genomic phase transition, consolidates distinct critical states of expression, ii) Coupling of coherent stochastic oscillations between critical states on different time-scales gives rise to SOC, and iii) Specific gene clusters (barcode genes) ranging in size from kbp to Mbp reveal similar SOC to genome-wide mRNA expression and ON-OFF synchronization to critical states. This suggests that the cooperative gene regulation of topological genome sub-units is mediated by the coherent phase transitions of megadomain-scaled conformations between compact and swollen chromatin states. Conclusion and Significance In summary, our study provides not only a systemic method to demonstrate SOC in whole-genome expression, but also introduces novel, physically grounded concepts for a breakthrough in the study of biological regulation. PMID:26067993

Measurement of the Infinite Multiplication Constant of Natural Uranium--Graphite Lattices in the RB-1 Critical Assembly by Means of the Zero Reactivity Method. MISURA DELLA COSTANTE DI MOLTIPLICAZIONE INFINITA DI RETICOLI A URANIO NATURALE E GRAFITE NELL'INSIEME CRITICO RB-1 CON IL METODO DELLA REATTIVITA' NULLA (in Italian)

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

Ghillardotti, G.

1966-07-01

To reduce uncertainties to the minimum, measurements in the RB-1 were conducted on the same materials and with the same instrumentation as those used previously in MARIUS. The values measured in the RB-1, compared with the already known substitution data, are as follows: (a) the difference between the multiplication and the absorption intensity; (b) the fine structure of the flux in the cell; (c) the Pu/U index. The infinite mutiplication factor K{sub infinity} is obtained by combining measurements (a) and (b). The results of this research can be summed up as follows: 1. A consistent and complete experimental procedure hasmore » been devised for measuring the K{sub infinity} of natural uranium/graphite lattices by means of the zero reactivity method. The same applies to the procedure for analysis of the experimental data. 2. The error in (K{sub infinity} -- 1) inherent in the measurement can in our opinion be reduced to 2%. This limit was reached in the last experiment on lattices consisting of tubular elements. 3. Agreement proved to be good with the results obtained by the CEA in the critical assembly MARIUS. (auth)« less

Initial design for an experimental investigation of strongly coupled plasma behavior in the Atlas facility

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

Munson, C.P.; Benage, J.F. Jr.; Taylor, A.J.

Atlas is a high current ({approximately} 30 MA peak, with a current risetime {approximately} 4.5 {micro}sec), high energy (E{sub stored} = 24 MJ, E{sub load} = 3--6 MJ), pulsed power facility which is being constructed at Los Alamos National Laboratory with a scheduled completion date in the year 2000. When operational, this facility will provide a platform for experiments in high pressure shocks (> 20 Mbar), adiabatic compression ({rho}/{rho}{sub 0} > 5, P > 10 Mbar), high magnetic fields ({approximately} 2,000 T), high strain and strain rates ({var_epsilon} > 200%, d{var_epsilon}/dt {approximately} 10{sup 4} to 10{sup 6} s{sup {minus}1}), hydrodynamicmore » instabilities of materials in turbulent regimes, magnetized target fusion, equation of state, and strongly coupled plasmas. For the strongly coupled plasma experiments, an auxiliary capacitor bank will be used to generate a moderate density (< 0.1 solid), relatively cold ({approximately} 1 eV) plasma by ohmic heating of a conducting material of interest such as titanium. This stargate plasma will be compressed against a central column containing diagnostic instrumentation by a cylindrical conducting liner that is driven radially inward by current from the main Atlas capacitor bank. The plasma is predicted to reach densities of {approximately} 1.1 times solid, achieve ion and electron temperatures of {approximately} 10 eV, and pressures of {approximately} 4--5 Mbar. This is a density/temperature regime which is expected to experience strong coupling, but only partial degeneracy. X-ray radiography is planned for measurements of the material density at discrete times during the experiments; diamond Raman measurements are anticipated for determination of the pressure. In addition, a neutron resonance spectroscopic technique is being evaluated for possible determination of the temperature (through low percentage doping of the titanium with a suitable resonant material). Initial target plasma formation experiments are being planned on an existing pulsed power facility at LANL and will be completed before the start of operation of Atlas.« less

Integrated Pulse Detonation Propulsion and Magnetohydrodynamic Power

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Litchford, R. J.; Lyles, Garry M. (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

The prospects for realizing an integrated pulse detonation propulsion and magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) power system are examined. First, energy requirements for direct detonation initiation of various fuel-oxygen and fuel-air mixtures are deduced from available experimental data and theoretical models. Second, the pumping power requirements for effective chamber scavenging are examined through the introduction of a scavenging ratio parameter and a scavenging efficiency parameter. A series of laboratory experiments were carried out to investigate the basic engineering performance characteristics of a pulse detonation-driven MHD electric power generator. In these experiments, stoichiometric oxy-acetylene mixtures seeded with a cesium hydroxide/methanol spray were detonated at atmospheric pressure in a 1-m-long tube having an i.d. of 2.54 cm. Experiments with a plasma diagnostic channel attached to the end of the tube confirmed the attainment of detonation conditions (p(sub 2)/p(sub 1) approx. 34 and D approx. 2,400 m/sec) and enabled the direct measurement of current density and electrical conductivity (=6 S/m) behind the detonation wave front. In a second set of experiments, a 30-cm-long continuous electrode Faraday channel, having a height of 2.54 cm and a width of 2 cm, was attached to the end of the tube using an area transition duct. The Faraday channel was inserted in applied magnetic fields of 0.6 and 0.95 T. and the electrodes were connected to an active loading circuit to characterize power extraction dependence on load impedance while also simulating higher effective magnetic induction. The experiments indicated peak power extraction at a load impedance between 5 and 10 Ohm. The measured power density was in reasonable agreement with a simple electrodynamic model incorporating a correction for near-electrode potential losses. The time-resolved thrust characteristics of the system were also measured, and it was found that the MHD interaction exerted a negligible influence on system thrust and that the measured I(sub sp) of the system (200 sec) exceeded that computed for an equivalent nozzleless rocket (120 sec).

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

St Lishev, Stiliyan; Shivarova, Antonia P.

The study combines experiments on probe diagnostics with laser-photodetachment-technique and Faraday-cup measurements directed towards determination of the position of the extraction device and its influence on the discharge structure. The measurements have been carried out in the second chamber of an inductively-driven tandem plasma source performed as small scale arrangements, with a magnetic filter located just after the transition between the two chambers of the source. Results for the axial profiles of the plasma parameters display the correlation of the ratio n lowbar /n{sub e} of the densities of the negative hydrogen ions and of the electrons and of themore » concentration of the negative ions with the electron density and temperature: The maxima of the (n lowbar /n{sub e})-ratio and of the density of the negative ions obtained are located at the position of maximum of the electron density behind the filter, in the region of the low electron temperature. Results from probe diagnostics and laser photodetachment measurements at a given axial position for different positions of the Faraday cup show the changes in the spatial distribution of the electron density and temperature and the reduction of the (n lowbar /n{sub e})-ratio and of the density of the negative ions caused by the extraction device.« less

The influence of data-driven versus conceptually-driven processing on the development of PTSD-like symptoms.

PubMed

Kindt, Merel; van den Hout, Marcel; Arntz, Arnoud; Drost, Jolijn

2008-12-01

Ehlers and Clark [(2000). A cognitive model of posttraumatic stress disorder. Behaviour Research and Therapy, 38, 319-345] propose that a predominance of data-driven processing during the trauma predicts subsequent PTSD. We wondered whether, apart from data-driven encoding, sustained data-driven processing after the trauma is also crucial for the development of PTSD. Both hypotheses were tested in two analogue experiments. Experiment 1 demonstrated that relative to conceptually-driven processing (n=20), data-driven processing after the film (n=14), resulted in more intrusions. Experiment 2 demonstrated that relative to the neutral condition (n=24) and the data-driven encoding condition (n=24), conceptual encoding (n=25) reduced suppression of intrusions and a trend emerged for memory fragmentation. The difference between the two encoding styles was due to the beneficial effect of induced conceptual encoding and not to the detrimental effect of data-driven encoding. The data support the viability of the distinction between data-driven/conceptually-driven processing for the understanding of the development of PTSD.

Beyond Genetics in Mental Rotation Test Performance: The Power of Effort Attribution

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Moe, Angelica; Pazzaglia, Francesca

2010-01-01

This study compares the effects on Mental Rotation Test (MRT) performance of instructions that stress the importance of (a) personal effort, and (b) genetically driven ability. A total of 120 high-school students were assigned to three groups, and administered two sub-tests of the MRT. Between the first and second sub-tests, the groups received…

The Case for Investing in Secondary Education in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA): Challenges and Opportunities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fredriksen, Birger; Fossberg, Camilla Helgø

2014-01-01

Over the next two decades, sub-Saharan Africa will face substantial pressure to expand its secondary education system. This is driven by the current low development of secondary education compared to other world regions, continued rapid population growth, the increase in the enrollment and completion rates at the primary education level, and the…

Metal insulator transitions in perovskite SrIrO{sub 3} thin films

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

Biswas, Abhijit; Jeong, Yoon Hee, E-mail: yhj@postech.ac.kr; Kim, Ki-Seok

Understanding of metal insulator transitions in a strongly correlated system, driven by Anderson localization (disorder) and/or Mott localization (correlation), is a long standing problem in condensed matter physics. The prevailing fundamental question would be how these two mechanisms contrive to accomplish emergent anomalous behaviors. Here, we have grown high quality perovskite SrIrO{sub 3} thin films, containing a strong spin orbit coupled 5d element Ir, on various substrates such as GdScO{sub 3} (110), DyScO{sub 3} (110), SrTiO{sub 3} (001), and NdGaO{sub 3} (110) with increasing lattice mismatch, in order to carry out a systematic study on the transport properties. We foundmore » that metal insulator transitions can be induced in this system; by either reducing thickness (on best lattice matched substrate) or changing degree of lattice strain (by lattice mismatch between film and substrates) of films. Surprisingly these two pathways seek two distinct types of metal insulator transitions; the former falls into disorder driven Anderson type whereas the latter turns out to be of unconventional Mott-Anderson type with the interplay of disorder and correlation. More interestingly, in the metallic phases of SrIrO{sub 3}, unusual non-Fermi liquid characteristics emerge in resistivity as Δρ ∝ T{sup ε} with ε evolving from 4/5 to 1 to 3/2 with increasing lattice strain. We discuss theoretical implications of these phenomena to shed light on the metal insulator transitions.« less

Reducing and measuring fluctuations in the MST RFP: Enhancement of energy confinement and measurement of the MHD dynamo

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

Den Hartog, D.J.; Almagri, A.F.; Cekic, M.

1996-09-01

A three- to five-fold enhancement of the energy confinement time in a reversed-field pinch (RFP) has been achieved in the Madison Symmetric Torus (MST) by reducing the amplitude of tearing mode fluctuations responsible for anomalous transport in the core of the RFP. By applying a transient poloidal inductive electric field to flatten the current density profile, the fluctuation amplitude {tilde b}/B decreases from 1.5% to 0.8%, the electron temperature T{sub e0} increases from 250 eV to 370 eV, the ohmic input power decreases from 4.5 MW to approximately 1.5 MW, the poloidal beta {beta}{sub 0} increases from 6% to 9%,more » and the energy confinement time {tau}{sub E} increases from 1 ms to {approximately}5 ms in I{sub {phi}} = 340 kA plasmas with density {tilde n} = 1 {times} 10{sup 19} m{sup -3}. Current profile control methods are being developed for the RFP in a program to eliminate transport associated with these current-gradient-driven fluctuations. In addition to controlling the amplitude of the tearing modes, we are vigorously pursuing an understanding of the physics of these fluctuations. In particular, plasma flow, both equilibrium and fluctuating, plays a critical role in a diversity of physical phenomena in MST. The key results: 1) Edge probe measurements show that the MHD dynamo is active in low collisionality plasmas, while at high collisionality a new mechanism, the `electron diamagnetic dynamo,` is observed. 2) Core spectroscopic measurements show that the toroidal velocity fluctuations of the plasma are coherent with the large-scale magnetic tearing modes; the scalar product of these two fluctuating quantities is similar to that expected for the MHD dynamo electromotive force. 3) Toroidal plasma flow in MST exhibits large radial shear and can be actively controlled, including unlocking locked discharges, by modifying E{sub r} with a robust biased probe. 24 refs.« less

Direct comparison of shot-to-shot noise performance of all normal dispersion and anomalous dispersion supercontinuum pumped with sub-picosecond pulse fiber-based laser

PubMed Central

Klimczak, Mariusz; Soboń, Grzegorz; Kasztelanic, Rafał; Abramski, Krzysztof M.; Buczyński, Ryszard

2016-01-01

Coherence of supercontinuum sources is critical for applications involving characterization of ultrafast or rarely occurring phenomena. With the demonstrated spectral coverage of supercontinuum extending from near-infrared to over 10 μm in a single nonlinear fiber, there has been a clear push for the bandwidth rather than for attempting to optimize the dynamic properties of the generated spectrum. In this work we provide an experimental assessment of the shot-to-shot noise performance of supercontinuum generation in two types of soft glass photonic crystal fibers. Phase coherence and intensity fluctuations are compared for the cases of an anomalous dispersion-pumped fiber and an all-normal dispersion fiber. With the use of the dispersive Fourier transformation method, we demonstrate that a factor of 100 improvement in signal-to-noise ratio is achieved in the normal-dispersion over anomalous dispersion-pumped fiber for 390 fs long pump pulses. A double-clad design of the photonic lattice of the fiber is further postulated to enable a pump-related seeding mechanism of normal-dispersion supercontinuum broadening under sub-picosecond pumping, which is otherwise known for similar noise characteristics as modulation instability driven, soliton-based spectra. PMID:26759188

Anderson metal-insulator transitions with classical magnetic impurities

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

Jung, Daniel; Kettemann, Stefan

We study the effects of classical magnetic impurities on the Anderson metal-insulator transition (AMIT) numerically. In particular we find that while a finite concentration of Ising impurities lowers the critical value of the site-diagonal disorder amplitude W{sub c}, in the presence of Heisenberg impurities, W{sub c} is first increased with increasing exchange coupling strength J due to time-reversal symmetry breaking. The resulting scaling with J is compared to analytical predictions by Wegner [1]. The results are obtained numerically, based on a finite-size scaling procedure for the typical density of states [2], which is the geometric average of the local densitymore » of states. The latter can efficiently be calculated using the kernel polynomial method [3]. Although still suffering from methodical shortcomings, our method proves to deliver results close to established results for the orthogonal symmetry class [4]. We extend previous approaches [5] by combining the KPM with a finite-size scaling analysis. We also discuss the relevance of our findings for systems like phosphor-doped silicon (Si:P), which are known to exhibit a quantum phase transition from metal to insulator driven by the interplay of both interaction and disorder, accompanied by the presence of a finite concentration of magnetic moments [6].« less

Spatiotemporal chaos near the onset of cellular growth during thin-film solidification of a binary alloy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, J. T. C.; Tsiveriotis, K.; Brown, R. A.

1992-01-01

Thin-film solidification experiments with a succinonitrile-acetone alloy are used to observe the long time-scale dynamics of cellular crystal growth at growth rates only slightly above the critical value VC = Vc(lambda sub c) for the onset of morphological instability. Under these conditions only very small amplitude cells are observed with wavelengths near the value predicted by linear stability theory lambda = lambda sub c. At long times, microstructures with wavelengths significantly finer than lambda suc c form by nucleation at defects across the interface. These interfaces do not have a unique microstructure, but seem to exhibit spatiotemporal chaos on a long time scale caused by the continual birth and death of cells by tip splitting and cell annihilation in grooves.

Doubly negative isotropic elastic metamaterial for sub-wavelength focusing: Design and realization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oh, Joo Hwan; Seung, Hong Min; Kim, Yoon Young

2017-12-01

In spite of much progress in elastic metamaterials, tuning the effective density and stiffness to desired values ranging from negatives to large positives is still difficult. In particular, simultaneous realization of double negativity and isotropy, critical in sub-wavelength focusing, is very challenging since anisotropy is usually unavoidable in resonance-based metamaterials. The main difficulty is that there is no established systematic design method for simultaneous achieving of double negativity and isotropy. Thus, we propose a unique elastic metamaterial unit cell with which simultaneous realization can be achieved by an explicit step-by-step approach. The unit cell of the proposed metamaterial can be accurately modeled as an equivalent mass-spring system so that the effective properties can be easily controlled with the design parameters. The actual realization was carried out by acquiring the desired properties in sequential steps which is in detail. The specific application for this study is on sub-wavelength focusing, which will be demonstrated by waves from a single point source focused on a region smaller than half the wavelength. Actual experiments were performed on an aluminum plate where the designed metamaterial flat lens was imbedded. The results acquired through simulations and experiments suggest potential applications of the proposed metamaterial and the systematic design approach in advanced acoustic surgery or non-destructive testing.

Battery-Powered RF Pre-Ionization System for the Caltech Magnetohydrodynamically-Driven Jet Experiment: RF Discharge Properties and MHD-Driven Jet Dynamics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chaplin, Vernon H.

This thesis describes investigations of two classes of laboratory plasmas with rather different properties: partially ionized low pressure radiofrequency (RF) discharges, and fully ionized high density magnetohydrodynamically (MHD)-driven jets. An RF pre-ionization system was developed to enable neutral gas breakdown at lower pressures and create hotter, faster jets in the Caltech MHD-Driven Jet Experiment. The RF plasma source used a custom pulsed 3 kW 13.56 MHz RF power amplifier that was powered by AA batteries, allowing it to safely float at 4-6 kV with the cathode of the jet experiment. The argon RF discharge equilibrium and transport properties were analyzed, and novel jet dynamics were observed. Although the RF plasma source was conceived as a wave-heated helicon source, scaling measurements and numerical modeling showed that inductive coupling was the dominant energy input mechanism. A one-dimensional time-dependent fluid model was developed to quantitatively explain the expansion of the pre-ionized plasma into the jet experiment chamber. The plasma transitioned from an ionizing phase with depressed neutral emission to a recombining phase with enhanced emission during the course of the experiment, causing fast camera images to be a poor indicator of the density distribution. Under certain conditions, the total visible and infrared brightness and the downstream ion density both increased after the RF power was turned off. The time-dependent emission patterns were used for an indirect measurement of the neutral gas pressure. The low-mass jets formed with the aid of the pre-ionization system were extremely narrow and collimated near the electrodes, with peak density exceeding that of jets created without pre-ionization. The initial neutral gas distribution prior to plasma breakdown was found to be critical in determining the ultimate jet structure. The visible radius of the dense central jet column was several times narrower than the axial current channel radius, suggesting that the outer portion of the jet must have been force free, with the current parallel to the magnetic field. The studies of non-equilibrium flows and plasma self-organization being carried out at Caltech are relevant to astrophysical jets and fusion energy research.

Mixed signals: The effect of conflicting reward- and goal-driven biases on selective attention.

PubMed

Preciado, Daniel; Munneke, Jaap; Theeuwes, Jan

2017-07-01

Attentional selection depends on the interaction between exogenous (stimulus-driven), endogenous (goal-driven), and selection history (experience-driven) factors. While endogenous and exogenous biases have been widely investigated, less is known about their interplay with value-driven attention. The present study investigated the interaction between reward-history and goal-driven biases on perceptual sensitivity (d') and response time (RT) in a modified cueing paradigm presenting two coloured cues, followed by sinusoidal gratings. Participants responded to the orientation of one of these gratings. In Experiment 1, one cue signalled reward availability but was otherwise task irrelevant. In Experiment 2, the same cue signalled reward, and indicated the target's most likely location at the opposite side of the display. This design introduced a conflict between reward-driven biases attracting attention and goal-driven biases directing it away. Attentional effects were examined comparing trials in which cue and target appeared at the same versus opposite locations. Two interstimulus interval (ISI) levels were used to probe the time course of attentional effects. Experiment 1 showed performance benefits at the location of the reward-signalling cue and costs at the opposite for both ISIs, indicating value-driven capture. Experiment 2 showed performance benefits only for the long ISI when the target was at the opposite to the reward-associated cue. At the short ISI, only performance costs were observed. These results reveal the time course of these biases, indicating that reward-driven effects influence attention early but can be overcome later by goal-driven control. This suggests that reward-driven biases are integrated as attentional priorities, just as exogenous and endogenous factors.

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

Anversa, Jonas; Escola de Engenharia Civil, Faculdade Meridional, 99070-220, Passo Fundo, RS; Chakraborty, Sudip, E-mail: sudiphys@gmail.com

In this letter, we are reporting the change of superconducting critical temperature in Sb{sub 2}Se{sub 3} topological insulator under the influence of an external hydrostatic pressure based on first principles electronic structure calculations coupled with Migdal–Eliashberg model. Experimentally, it was shown previously that Sb{sub 2}Se{sub 3} was undergoing through a transition to a superconducting phase when subjected to a compressive pressure. Our results show that the critical temperature increases up to 6.15 K under the pressure unto 40 GPa and, subsequently, drops down until 70 GPa. Throughout this pressure range, the system is preserving the initial Pnma symmetry without any structural transformation. Ourmore » results suggest that the possible relevant mechanism behind the superconductivity in Sb{sub 2}Se{sub 3} is primarily the electron–phonon coupling.« less

In-situ activation of CuO/ZnO/Al.sub.2 O.sub.3 catalysts in the liquid phase

DOEpatents

Brown, Dennis M.; Hsiung, Thomas H.; Rao, Pradip; Roberts, George W.

1989-01-01

The present invention relates to a method of activation of a CuO/ZnO/Al.sub.2 O.sub.3 catalyst slurried in a chemically inert liquid. Successful activation of the catalyst requires the use of a process in which the temperature of the system at any time is not allowed to exceed a certain critical value, which is a function of the specific hydrogen uptake of the catalyst at that same time. This process is especially critical for activating highly concentrated catalyst slurries, typically 25 to 50 wt %. Activation of slurries of CuO/ZnO/Al.sub.2 O.sub.3 catalyst is useful in carrying out the liquid phase methanol or the liquid phase shift reactions.

Growth of CdZnTe Crystals for Radiation Detector Applications by Directional Solidification

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Su, Ching-Hua

2014-01-01

Advances in Cadmium Zinc Telluride (Cd(sub 1-x)Zn(sub x)Te) growth techniques are needed for the production of large-scale arrays of gamma and x-ray astronomy. The research objective is to develop crystal growth recipes and techniques to obtain large, high quality CdZnTe single crystal with reduced defects, such as charge trapping, twinning, and tellurium precipitates, which degrade the performance of CdZnTe and, at the same time, to increase the yield of usable material from the CdZnTe ingot. A low gravity material experiment, "Crystal Growth of Ternary Compound Semiconductors in Low Gravity Environment", will be performed in the Material Science Research Rack (MSRR) on International Space Station (ISS). One section of the flight experiment is the melt growth of CdZnTe ternary compounds. This talk will focus on the ground-based studies on the growth of Cd(sub 0.80)Zn(sub 0.20)Te crystals for radiation detector applications by directional solidification. In this investigation, we have improved the properties that are most critical for the detector applications (electrical properties and crystalline quality): a) Electrical resistivity: use high purity starting materials (with reproducible impurity levels) and controlled Cd over pressure during growth to reproducibly balance the impurity levels and Cd vacancy concentration b) Crystalline quality: use ultra-clean growth ampoule (no wetting after growth), optimized thermal profile and ampoule design, as well as a technique for supercool reduction to growth large single crystal with high crystalline quality

Proving Value in Radiology: Experience Developing and Implementing a Shareable Open Source Registry Platform Driven by Radiology Workflow.

PubMed

Gichoya, Judy Wawira; Kohli, Marc D; Haste, Paul; Abigail, Elizabeth Mills; Johnson, Matthew S

2017-10-01

Numerous initiatives are in place to support value based care in radiology including decision support using appropriateness criteria, quality metrics like radiation dose monitoring, and efforts to improve the quality of the radiology report for consumption by referring providers. These initiatives are largely data driven. Organizations can choose to purchase proprietary registry systems, pay for software as a service solution, or deploy/build their own registry systems. Traditionally, registries are created for a single purpose like radiation dosage or specific disease tracking like diabetes registry. This results in a fragmented view of the patient, and increases overhead to maintain such single purpose registry system by requiring an alternative data entry workflow and additional infrastructure to host and maintain multiple registries for different clinical needs. This complexity is magnified in the health care enterprise whereby radiology systems usually are run parallel to other clinical systems due to the different clinical workflow for radiologists. In the new era of value based care where data needs are increasing with demand for a shorter turnaround time to provide data that can be used for information and decision making, there is a critical gap to develop registries that are more adapt to the radiology workflow with minimal overhead on resources for maintenance and setup. We share our experience of developing and implementing an open source registry system for quality improvement and research in our academic institution that is driven by our radiology workflow.

Nanoscale-driven crystal growth of hexaferrite heterostructures for magnetoelectric tuning of microwave semiconductor integrated devices.

PubMed

Hu, Bolin; Chen, Zhaohui; Su, Zhijuan; Wang, Xian; Daigle, Andrew; Andalib, Parisa; Wolf, Jason; McHenry, Michael E; Chen, Yajie; Harris, Vincent G

2014-11-25

A nanoscale-driven crystal growth of magnetic hexaferrites was successfully demonstrated at low growth temperatures (25-40% lower than the temperatures required often for crystal growth). This outcome exhibits thermodynamic processes of crystal growth, allowing ease in fabrication of advanced multifunctional materials. Most importantly, the crystal growth technique is considered theoretically and experimentally to be universal and suitable for the growth of a wide range of diverse crystals. In the present experiment, the conical spin structure of Co2Y ferrite crystals was found to give rise to an intrinsic magnetoelectric effect. Our experiment reveals a remarkable increase in the conical phase transition temperature by ∼150 K for Co2Y ferrite, compared to 5-10 K of Zn2Y ferrites recently reported. The high quality Co2Y ferrite crystals, having low microwave loss and magnetoelectricity, were successfully grown on a wide bandgap semiconductor GaN. The demonstration of the nanostructure materials-based "system on a wafer" architecture is a critical milestone to next generation microwave integrated systems. It is also practical that future microwave integrated systems and their magnetic performances could be tuned by an electric field because of the magnetoelectricity of hexaferrites.

An integrated measure of display clutter based on feature content, user knowledge and attention allocation factors.

PubMed

Pankok, Carl; Kaber, David B

2018-05-01

Existing measures of display clutter in the literature generally exhibit weak correlations with task performance, which limits their utility in safety-critical domains. A literature review led to formulation of an integrated display data- and user knowledge-driven measure of display clutter. A driving simulation experiment was conducted in which participants were asked to search 'high' and 'low' clutter displays for navigation information. Data-driven measures and subjective perceptions of clutter were collected along with patterns of visual attention allocation and driving performance responses during time periods in which participants searched the navigation display for information. The new integrated measure was more strongly correlated with driving performance than other, previously developed measures of clutter, particularly in the case of low-clutter displays. Integrating display data and user knowledge factors with patterns of visual attention allocation shows promise for measuring display clutter and correlation with task performance, particularly for low-clutter displays. Practitioner Summary: A novel measure of display clutter was formulated, accounting for display data content, user knowledge states and patterns of visual attention allocation. The measure was evaluated in terms of correlations with driver performance in a safety-critical driving simulation study. The measure exhibited stronger correlations with task performance than previously defined measures.

Fermi surface reconstruction and multiple quantum phase transitions in the antiferromagnet CeRhIn5

PubMed Central

Jiao, Lin; Chen, Ye; Kohama, Yoshimitsu; Graf, David; Bauer, E. D.; Singleton, John; Zhu, Jian-Xin; Weng, Zongfa; Pang, Guiming; Shang, Tian; Zhang, Jinglei; Lee, Han-Oh; Park, Tuson; Jaime, Marcelo; Thompson, J. D.; Steglich, Frank; Si, Qimiao; Yuan, H. Q.

2015-01-01

Conventional, thermally driven continuous phase transitions are described by universal critical behavior that is independent of the specific microscopic details of a material. However, many current studies focus on materials that exhibit quantum-driven continuous phase transitions (quantum critical points, or QCPs) at absolute zero temperature. The classification of such QCPs and the question of whether they show universal behavior remain open issues. Here we report measurements of heat capacity and de Haas–van Alphen (dHvA) oscillations at low temperatures across a field-induced antiferromagnetic QCP (Bc0 ≈ 50 T) in the heavy-fermion metal CeRhIn5. A sharp, magnetic-field-induced change in Fermi surface is detected both in the dHvA effect and Hall resistivity at B0* ≈ 30 T, well inside the antiferromagnetic phase. Comparisons with band-structure calculations and properties of isostructural CeCoIn5 suggest that the Fermi-surface change at B0* is associated with a localized-to-itinerant transition of the Ce-4f electrons in CeRhIn5. Taken in conjunction with pressure experiments, our results demonstrate that at least two distinct classes of QCP are observable in CeRhIn5, a significant step toward the derivation of a universal phase diagram for QCPs. PMID:25561536

MULTI-WAVELENGTH OBSERVATIONS OF THE SPATIO-TEMPORAL EVOLUTION OF SOLAR FLARES WITH AIA/SDO. I. UNIVERSAL SCALING LAWS OF SPACE AND TIME PARAMETERS

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

Aschwanden, Markus J.; Zhang, Jie; Liu, Kai, E-mail: aschwanden@lmsal.com, E-mail: jzhang7@gmu.edu

2013-09-20

We extend a previous statistical solar flare study of 155 GOES M- and X-class flares observed with AIA/SDO to all seven coronal wavelengths (94, 131, 171, 193, 211, 304, and 335 Å) to test the wavelength dependence of scaling laws and statistical distributions. Except for the 171 and 193 Å wavelengths, which are affected by EUV dimming caused by coronal mass ejections (CMEs), we find near-identical size distributions of geometric (lengths L, flare areas A, volumes V, and fractal dimension D{sub 2}), temporal (flare durations T), and spatio-temporal parameters (diffusion coefficient κ, spreading exponent β, and maximum expansion velocities v{submore » max}) in different wavelengths, which are consistent with the universal predictions of the fractal-diffusive avalanche model of a slowly driven, self-organized criticality (FD-SOC) system, i.e., N(L)∝L {sup –3}, N(A)∝A {sup –2}, N(V)∝V {sup –5/3}, N(T)∝T {sup –2}, and D{sub 2} = 3/2, for a Euclidean dimension d = 3. Empirically, we find also a new strong correlation κ∝L {sup 0.94±0.01} and the three-parameter scaling law L∝κ T {sup 0.1}, which is more consistent with the logistic-growth model than with classical diffusion. The findings suggest long-range correlation lengths in the FD-SOC system that operate in the vicinity of a critical state, which could be used for predictions of individual extreme events. We find also that eruptive flares (with accompanying CMEs) have larger volumes V, longer flare durations T, higher EUV and soft X-ray fluxes, and somewhat larger diffusion coefficients κ than confined flares (without CMEs)« less

Hot accretion disks with pairs: Effects of magnetic field and thermal cyclocsynchrotron radiation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kusunose, Masaaki; Zdziarski, Andrzej A.

1994-01-01

We show the effects of thermal cyclosynchrotron radiation and magnetic viscosity on the structure of hot, two-temperature accretion disks. Magnetic field, B, is assumed to be randomly oriented and the ratio of magnetic pressure to either gas pressure, alpha = P(sub mag)/P(sub gas), or the sum of the gas and radiation pressures, alpha = (P(sub mag)/P(sub gas) + P(sub rad)), is fixed. We find those effects do not change the qualitative properties of the disks, i.e., there are still two critical accretion rates related to production of e(sup +/-) pairs, (M dot)((sup U)(sub cr)) and (M dot)((sup L)(sub cr)), that affect the number of local and global disk solutions, as recently found by Bjoernsson and Svensson for the case with B = 0. However, a critical value of the alpha-viscosity parameter above which those critical accretion rates disappear becomes smaller than alpha(sub cr) = 1 found in the case of B = 0, for P(sub mag) = alpha(P(sub gas) + P(sub rad)). If P(sub mag) = alpha P(sub gas), on the other hand, alpha(sub cr) is still about unity. Moreover, when Comptonized cyclosynchrotron radiation dominates Comptonized bremsstrahlung, radiation from the disk obeys a power law with the energy spectral index of approximately 0.5, in a qualitative agreement with X-ray observations of active galactic nuclei (AGNS) and Galactic black hole candidates. We also extend the hot disk solutions for P(sub mag) = alpha(P(sub gas) + P(sub rad)) to the effectively optically thick region, where they merge with the standard cold disk solutions. We find that the mapping method by Bjoernsson and Svensson gives a good approximation to the disk structure in the hot region and show where it breaks in the transition region. Finally, we find a region in the disk parameter space with no solutions due to the inability of Coulomb heating to supply enough energy to electrons.

Recovery of Palm Oil and Valuable Material from Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunch by Sub-critical Water.

PubMed

Ahmad Kurnin, Nor Azrin; Shah Ismail, Mohd Halim; Yoshida, Hiroyuki; Izhar, Shamsul

2016-01-01

Oil palm empty fruit bunch (EFB) is one of the solid wastes produced in huge volume by palm oil mill. Whilst it still contains valuable oil, approximately 22.6 million tons is generated annually and treated as solid waste. In this work, sub-critical water (sub-cw) was used to extract oil, sugar and tar from spikelet of EFB. The spikelet was treated with sub-cw between 180-280°C and a reaction time of 2 and 5 minutes. The highest yield of oil was 0.075 g-oil/g-dry EFB, obtained at 240°C and reaction time of 5 minutes. Astonishingly, oil that was extracted through this method was 84.5% of that obtained through Soxhlet method using hexane. Yield of oil extracted was strongly affected by the reaction temperature and time. Higher reaction temperature induces the dielectric constant of water towards the non-polar properties of solvent; thus increases the oil extraction capability. Meanwhile, the highest yield of sugar was 0.20 g-sugar/g-dry EFB obtained at 220°C. At this temperature, the ion product of water is high enough to enable maximum sub-critical water hydrolysis reaction. This study showed that oil and other valuable material can be recovered using water at sub-critical condition, and most attractive without the use of harmful organic solvent.

The Electromechanical Behavior of a Micro-Ring Driven by Traveling Electrostatic Force

PubMed Central

Ye, Xiuqian; Chen, Yibao; Chen, Da-Chih; Huang, Kuo-Yi; Hu, Yuh-Chung

2012-01-01

There is no literature mentioning the electromechanical behavior of micro structures driven by traveling electrostatic forces. This article is thus the first to present the dynamics and stabilities of a micro-ring subjected to a traveling electrostatic force. The traveling electrostatic force may be induced by sequentially actuated electrodes which are arranged around the flexible micro-ring. The analysis is based on a linearized distributed model considering the electromechanical coupling effects between electrostatic force and structure. The micro-ring will resonate when the traveling speeds of the electrostatic force approach some critical speeds. The critical speeds are equal to the ratio of the natural frequencies to the wave number of the correlative natural mode of the ring. Apart from resonance, the ring may be unstable at some unstable traveling speeds. The unstable regions appear not only near the critical speeds, but also near some fractions of some critical speeds differences. Furthermore the unstable regions expand with increasing driving voltage. This article may lead to a new research branch on electrostatic-driven micro devices. PMID:22438705

Experimental investigation on flow patterns of RP-3 kerosene under sub-critical and supercritical pressures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Ning; Zhou, Jin; Pan, Yu; Wang, Hui

2014-02-01

Active cooling with endothermic hydrocarbon fuel is proved to be one of the most promising approaches to solve the thermal problem for hypersonic aircraft such as scramjet. The flow patterns of two-phase flow inside the cooling channels have a great influence on the heat transfer characteristics. In this study, phase transition processes of RP-3 kerosene flowing inside a square quartz-glass tube were experimentally investigated. Three distinct phase transition phenomena (liquid-gas two phase flow under sub-critical pressures, critical opalescence under critical pressure, and corrugation under supercritical pressures) were identified. The conventional flow patterns of liquid-gas two phase flow, namely bubble flow, slug flow, churn flow and annular flow are observed under sub-critical pressures. Dense bubble flow and dispersed flow are recognized when pressure is increased towards the critical pressure whilst slug flow, churn flow and annular flow disappear. Under critical pressure, the opalescence phenomenon is observed. Under supercritical pressures, no conventional phase transition characteristics, such as bubbles are observed. But some kind of corrugation appears when RP-3 transfers from liquid to supercritical. The refraction index variation caused by sharp density gradient near the critical temperature is thought to be responsible for this corrugation.

Progress on the Plasmoid Thruster Experiment (PTX)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Martin, Adam; Eskridge, Richard; Fimognari, Peter; Koelfgen, Syri J.; Lee, Mike

2004-01-01

A plasmoid is a compact plasma structure with an integral magnetic field, that may be categorized according to the relative strength of the poloidal and toroidal magnetic field (B(sub p) and B(sub t), respectively). An object with B(sub p)/B(sub t), much much more than 1 is called a Field Reverse Configuration (FRC); if B(sub p) approximately equal to B(sub t), it is called a Spheromak. The thruster operates by repetitively producing plasmoids that are accelerated and ejected at high velocity. As this process is inductive, there are no electrodes. Also, the magnetic structure of the plasmoid should suppress thermal and mass losses to the wall, and improve detachment of the plasma exhaust from the thruster. This concept should be capable of producing an Isp in the range of 5,000 - 10,000 s with thrust densities of order 10(exp 5) N per square meters. The current experiment is designed to produce jet powers in the range of 5-10 kW, although the concept should be scalable into the MW range. In PTX, the plasmoid is formed inside of a single turn conical theta-pinch coil (17.58 cone angle). The coil is driven by a 640 nF, 35 kV capacitor bank, which rings at a frequency of 500 kHz. Previous experiments on PTX were conducted with a static-fill of propellant gas (6% H2 in He), and demonstrated reliable ionization over a pressure range of 40 - 200 mTorr. We are now adding a fast gas-puff valve to load the propellant, and a ringing pre-ionization circuit (f = 5 Mhz) to better control the plasmoid formation. An alternate coil (8.58 cone angle) will also be used, so as to investigate the effect of coil shape on performance. In addition, a variety of propellants will be used, including hydrogen, nitrogen, and argon. The plasmoid mass and velocity will be measured with a variety of diagnostics, including external B-dot probes and flux loops, a high-speed framing camera, and a HeNe laser interferometer. Internal B-dot probes and a quadruple Langmuir probe will provide additional measurements of the plasmoid shape and structure, as well as density, and will be described in a companion paper. The experimental results will be compared to calculations made using a 0-D coil-gun model and also a 2-D time dependent MHD code.

A consistent and unified picture for critical phenomena of f(R) AdS black holes

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

Mo, Jie-Xiong; Li, Gu-Qiang; Wu, Yu-Cheng, E-mail: mojiexiong@gmail.com, E-mail: zsgqli@hotmail.com, E-mail: wuyucheng0827@163.com

A consistent and unified picture for critical phenomena of charged AdS black holes in f ( R ) gravity is drawn in this paper. Firstly, we investigate the phase transition in canonical ensemble. We derive the explicit solutions corresponding to the divergence of C {sub Q} . The two solutions merge into one when the condition Q {sub c} =√(−1/3 R {sub 0}) is satisfied. The curve of specific heat for Q < Q {sub c} has two divergent points and can be divided into three regions. Both the large radius region and the small radius region are thermodynamically stablemore » with positive specific heat while the medium radius region is unstable with negative specific heat. However, when Q > Q {sub c} , the specific heat is always positive, implying the black holes are locally stable and no phase transition will take place. Secondly, both the T − r {sub +} curve and T − S curve f ( R ) AdS black holes are investigated and they exhibit Van der Vaals like behavior as the P − v curve in the former research. Critical physical quantities are obtained and they are consistent with those derived from the specific heat analysis. We carry out numerical check of Maxwell equal area law for the cases Q =0.2 Q {sub c} , 0.4 Q {sub c} , 0.6 Q {sub c} , 0.8 Q {sub c} . The relative errors are amazingly small and can be negligible. So the Maxwell equal area law holds for T − S curve of f ( R ) black holes. Thirdly, we establish geometrothermodynamics for f ( R ) AdS black hole to examine the phase structure. It is shown that the Legendre invariant scalar curvature R would diverge exactly where the specific heat diverges. To summarize, the above three perspectives are consistent with each other, thus providing a unified picture which deepens the understanding of critical phenomena of f ( R ) AdS black holes.« less

Numerical modeling of laser-driven ion acceleration from near-critical gas targets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tatomirescu, Dragos; Vizman, Daniel; d’Humières, Emmanuel

2018-06-01

In the past two decades, laser-accelerated ion sources and their applications have been intensely researched. Recently, it has been shown through experiments that proton beams with characteristics comparable to those obtained with solid targets can be obtained from gaseous targets. By means of particle-in-cell simulations, this paper studies in detail the effects of a near-critical density gradient on ion and electron acceleration after the interaction with ultra high intensity lasers. We can observe that the peak density of the gas jet has a significant influence on the spectrum features. As the gas jet density increases, so does the peak energy of the central quasi-monoenergetic ion bunch due to the increase in laser absorption while at the same time having a broadening effect on the electron angular distribution.

Theory and observations of high frequency Alfvén eigenmodes in low aspect ratio plasmas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gorelenkov, N. N.; Fredrickson, E.; Belova, E.; Cheng, C. Z.; Gates, D.; Kaye, S.; White, R.

2003-04-01

New observations of sub-cyclotron frequency instability in low aspect ratio plasmas in national spherical torus experiments are reported. The frequencies of observed instabilities correlate with the characteristic Alfvén velocity of the plasma. A theory of localized compressional Alfvén eigenmodes (CAE) and global shear Alfvén eigenmodes (GAE) in low aspect ratio plasmas is presented to explain the observed high frequency instabilities. CAEs/GAEs are driven by the velocity space gradient of energetic super-Alfvénic beam ions via Doppler shifted cyclotron resonances. One of the main damping mechanisms of GAEs, the continuum damping, is treated perturbatively within the framework of ideal MHD. Properties of these cyclotron instability ions are presented.

STUDY OF THE POYNTING FLUX IN ACTIVE REGION 10930 USING DATA-DRIVEN MAGNETOHYDRODYNAMIC SIMULATION

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

Fan, Y. L.; Wang, H. N.; He, H.

2011-08-10

Powerful solar flares are closely related to the evolution of magnetic field configuration on the photosphere. We choose the Poynting flux as a parameter in the study of magnetic field changes. We use time-dependent multidimensional MHD simulations around a flare occurrence to generate the results, with the temporal variation of the bottom boundary conditions being deduced from the projected normal characteristic method. By this method, the photospheric magnetogram could be incorporated self-consistently as the bottom condition of data-driven simulations. The model is first applied to a simulation datum produced by an emerging magnetic flux rope as a test case. Then,more » the model is used to study NOAA AR 10930, which has an X3.4 flare, the data of which has been obtained by the Hinode/Solar Optical Telescope on 2006 December 13. We compute the magnitude of Poynting flux (S{sub total}), radial Poynting flux (S{sub z} ), a proxy for ideal radial Poynting flux (S{sub proxy}), Poynting flux due to plasma surface motion (S{sub sur}), and Poynting flux due to plasma emergence (S{sub emg}) and analyze their extensive properties in four selected areas: the whole sunspot, the positive sunspot, the negative sunspot, and the strong-field polarity inversion line (SPIL) area. It is found that (1) the S{sub total}, S{sub z} , and S{sub proxy} parameters show similar behaviors in the whole sunspot area and in the negative sunspot area. The evolutions of these three parameters in the positive area and the SPIL area are more volatile because of the effect of sunspot rotation and flux emergence. (2) The evolution of S{sub sur} is largely influenced by the process of sunspot rotation, especially in the positive sunspot. The evolution of S{sub emg} is greatly affected by flux emergence, especially in the SPIL area.« less

Dye-sensitized MIL-101 metal organic frameworks loaded with Ni/NiO{sub x} nanoparticles for efficient visible-light-driven hydrogen generation

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

Liu, Xin-Ling; Wang, Rong; Yuan, Yu-Peng, E-mail: yupengyuan@ahu.edu.cn, E-mail: cxue@ntu.edu.sg

2015-10-01

The Ni/NiO{sub x} particles were in situ photodeposited on MIL-101 metal organic frameworks as catalysts for boosting H{sub 2} generation from Erythrosin B dye sensitization under visible-light irradiation. The highest H{sub 2} production rate of 125 μmol h{sup −1} was achieved from the system containing 5 wt. % Ni-loaded MIL-101 (20 mg) and 30 mg Erythrosin B dye. Moreover, the Ni/NiO{sub x} catalysts show excellent stability for long-term photocatalytic reaction. The enhancement on H{sub 2} generation is attributed to the efficient charge transfer from photoexcited dye to the Ni catalyst via MIL-101. Our results demonstrate that the economical Ni/NiO{sub x}more » particles are durable and active catalysts for photocatalytic H{sub 2} generation.« less

Reversible piezomagnetoelectric switching in bulk polycrystalline ceramics

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

Stevenson, T., E-mail: t.j.stevenson@leeds.ac.uk; Bennett, J.; Brown, A. P.

2014-08-01

Magnetoelectric (ME) coupling in materials offer tremendous advantages in device functionality enabling technologies including advanced electronic memory, combining electronic speed, and efficiency with magnetic robustness. However, low cost polycrystalline ME materials are excluded from most commercial applications, operating only at cryogenic temperatures, impractically large electric/magnetic fields, or with low ME coefficients (1-100 mV/cm Oe). Despite this, the technological potential of single compound ME coupling has continued to drive research into multiferroics over the last two decades. Here we show that by manipulating the large induced atomic strain within the polycrystalline, room temperature multiferroic compound 0.7BiFeO{sub 3}–0.3PbTiO{sub 3}, we can induce amore » reversible, piezoelectric strain controlled ME effect. Employing an in situ neutron diffraction experiment, we have demonstrated that this piezomagnetoelectric effect manifests with an applied electric field >8 kV/mm at the onset of piezoelectric strain, engineered in to the compound by crystallographic phase mixing. This produces a remarkable intrinsic ME coefficient of 1276 mV/cm Oe, due to a strain driven modification to the oxygen sub-lattice, inducing an increase in magnetic moment per Fe{sup 3+} ion of +0.142 μ{sub B}. This work provides a framework for investigations into strain engineered nanostructures to realize low-cost ME devices designed from the atoms up, as well as contributing to the deeper understanding of single phase ME coupling mechanisms.« less