Imaging trace gases in volcanic plumes with Fabry Perot Interferometers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuhn, Jonas; Platt, Ulrich; Bobrowski, Nicole; Lübcke, Peter; Wagner, Thomas

2017-04-01

Within the last decades, progress in remote sensing of atmospheric trace gases revealed many important insights into physical and chemical processes in volcanic plumes. In particular, their evolution could be studied in more detail than by traditional in-situ techniques. A major limitation of standard techniques for volcanic trace gas remote sensing (e.g. Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy, DOAS) is the constraint of the measurement to a single viewing direction since they use dispersive spectroscopy with a high spectral resolution. Imaging DOAS-type approaches can overcome this limitation, but become very time consuming (of the order of minutes to record a single image) and often cannot match the timescales of the processes of interest for volcanic gas measurements (occurring at the order of seconds). Spatially resolved imaging observations with high time resolution for volcanic sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions became possible with the introduction of the SO2-Camera. Reducing the spectral resolution to two spectral channels (using interference filters) that are matched to the SO2 absorption spectrum, the SO2-Camera is able to record full frame SO2 slant column density distributions at a temporal resolution on the order of < 1s. This for instance allows for studying variations in SO2 fluxes on very short time scales and applying them in magma dynamics models. However, the currently employed SO2-Camera technique is limited to SO2 detection and, due to its coarse spectral resolution, has a limited spectral selectivity. This limits its application to very specific, infrequently found measurement conditions. Here we present a new approach, based on matching the transmission profile of Fabry Perot Interferometers (FPIs) to periodic spectral absorption features of trace gases. The FPI's transmission spectrum is chosen to achieve a high correlation with the spectral absorption of the trace gas, allowing a high selectivity and sensitivity with still using only a few spectral channels. This would not only improve SO2 imaging, but also allow for the application of the technique to further gases of interest in volcanology (and other areas of atmospheric research). Imaging halogen species would be particularly interesting for volcanic trace gas studies. Bromine monoxide (BrO) and chlorine dioxide (OClO) both yield absorption features that allow their detection with the FPI correlation technique. From BrO and OClO data, ClO levels in the plume could be calculated. We present an outline of applications of the FPI technique to imaging a series of trace gases in volcanic plumes. Sample calculations on the sensitivity and selectivity of the technique, first proof of concept studies and proposals for technical implementations are presented.

Background Contamination by Coplanar Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBS) in Trace Level High Resolution Gas Chromatography/High Resolution Mass Spectrometry (HRGC/HRMS) Analytical Procedures

EPA Science Inventory

The addition of the "dioxin-like" polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congeners to the assessment of risk associated with the 2,3,7,8-chlorine substituted dioxins and furans has dramatically increased the number of laboratories worldwide that are developing analytical procedures for t...

Fast solar radiation pressure modelling with ray tracing and multiple reflections

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Zhen; Ziebart, Marek; Bhattarai, Santosh; Harrison, David; Grey, Stuart

2018-05-01

Physics based SRP (Solar Radiation Pressure) models using ray tracing methods are powerful tools when modelling the forces on complex real world space vehicles. Currently high resolution (1 mm) ray tracing with secondary intersections is done on high performance computers at UCL (University College London). This study introduces the BVH (Bounding Volume Hierarchy) into the ray tracing approach for physics based SRP modelling and makes it possible to run high resolution analysis on personal computers. The ray tracer is both general and efficient enough to cope with the complex shape of satellites and multiple reflections (three or more, with no upper limit). In this study, the traditional ray tracing technique is introduced in the first place and then the BVH is integrated into the ray tracing. Four aspects of the ray tracer were tested for investigating the performance including runtime, accuracy, the effects of multiple reflections and the effects of pixel array resolution.Test results in runtime on GPS IIR and Galileo IOV (In Orbit Validation) satellites show that the BVH can make the force model computation 30-50 times faster. The ray tracer has an absolute accuracy of several nanonewtons by comparing the test results for spheres and planes with the analytical computations. The multiple reflection effects are investigated both in the intersection number and acceleration on GPS IIR, Galileo IOV and Sentinel-1 spacecraft. Considering the number of intersections, the 3rd reflection can capture 99.12 %, 99.14 % , and 91.34 % of the total reflections for GPS IIR, Galileo IOV satellite bus and the Sentinel-1 spacecraft respectively. In terms of the multiple reflection effects on the acceleration, the secondary reflection effect for Galileo IOV satellite and Sentinel-1 can reach 0.2 nm /s2 and 0.4 nm /s2 respectively. The error percentage in the accelerations magnitude results show that the 3rd reflection should be considered in order to make it less than 0.035 % . The pixel array resolution tests show that the dimensions of the components have to be considered when choosing the spacing of the pixel in order not to miss some components of the satellite in ray tracing. This paper presents the first systematic and quantitative study of the secondary and higher order intersection effects. It shows conclusively the effect is non-negligible for certain classes of misson.

MASS MEASUREMENTS BY AN ACCURATE AND SENSITIVE SELECTED ION RECORDING TECHNIQUE

EPA Science Inventory

Trace-level components of mixtures were successfully identified or confirmed by mass spectrometric accurate mass measurements, made at high resolution with selected ion recording, using GC and LC sample introduction. Measurements were made at 20 000 or 10 000 resolution, respecti...

Colloquium on High Resolution Molecular Spectroscopy (16th) Held in Universite de Bourgogne, Dijon, France on 6-10 September 1999

DTIC Science & Technology

1999-09-28

part of the talk will be devoted to the high resolution ab- sorption spectroscopy of the vi = 2-6 acetylenic overtone bands of propyned (CH 3-C=C-H...period CATGAS (Calibration Apparatus for Trace GAs Spectra), a transportable laboratory set-up for ab- sorption spectroscopy, was connected to the...the NIR around 1.95- 2.04 nm and 2.26- 2.39 nm, where accurate line parameters of ozone ab- sorption are available by high-resolution Fourier transform

Holographic Investigation of Solid Propellant Particulates.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-12-01

4~ .A*4 ~.Zwe SOUMVV Ch.&4 0IVC&TIN 0 e*9 066so. 4 evt’ o R..e High speed, high resolution motion pictures were taken to compare the cinematic data...propellant. High speed, high resolution motion pictures were taken to compare the cinematic data with that available from the holograms. TABLE OF...of the motor ignition system, the repeatability of the pressure-time trace, and the timing of the cinematic /holographic obser- vation. The current

The structure of the ISM in the Zone of Avoidance by high-resolution multi-wavelength observations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tóth, L. V.; Doi, Y.; Pinter, S.; Kovács, T.; Zahorecz, S.; Bagoly, Z.; Balázs, L. G.; Horvath, I.; Racz, I. I.; Onishi, T.

2018-05-01

We estimate the column density of the Galactic foreground interstellar medium (GFISM) in the direction of extragalactic sources. All-sky AKARI FIS infrared sky survey data might be used to trace the GFISM with a resolution of 2 arcminutes. The AKARI based GFISM hydrogen column density estimates are compared with similar quantities based on HI 21cm measurements of various resolution and of Planck results. High spatial resolution observations of the GFISM may be important recalculating the physical parameters of gamma-ray burst (GRB) host galaxies using the updated foreground parameters.

Simultaneous cryo X-ray ptychographic and fluorescence microscopy of green algae

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

Deng, Junjing; Vine, David J.; Chen, Si

Trace metals play important roles in normal and in disease-causing biological functions. X-ray fluorescence microscopy reveals trace elements with no dependence on binding affinities (unlike with visible light fluorophores) and with improved sensitivity relative to electron probes. However, X-ray fluorescence is not very sensitive for showing the light elements that comprise the majority of cellular material. Here we show that X-ray ptychography can be combined with fluorescence to image both cellular structure and trace element distribution in frozen-hydrated cells at cryogenic temperatures, with high structural and chemical fidelity. Ptychographic reconstruction algorithms deliver phase and absorption contrast images at a resolutionmore » beyond that of the illuminating lens or beam size. Using 5.2-keV X-rays, we have obtained sub-30-nm resolution structural images and ~90-nm-resolution fluorescence images of several elements in frozen-hydrated green algae. Finally, this combined approach offers a way to study the role of trace elements in their structural context.« less

Simultaneous cryo X-ray ptychographic and fluorescence microscopy of green algae

DOE PAGES

Deng, Junjing; Vine, David J.; Chen, Si; ...

2015-02-24

Trace metals play important roles in normal and in disease-causing biological functions. X-ray fluorescence microscopy reveals trace elements with no dependence on binding affinities (unlike with visible light fluorophores) and with improved sensitivity relative to electron probes. However, X-ray fluorescence is not very sensitive for showing the light elements that comprise the majority of cellular material. Here we show that X-ray ptychography can be combined with fluorescence to image both cellular structure and trace element distribution in frozen-hydrated cells at cryogenic temperatures, with high structural and chemical fidelity. Ptychographic reconstruction algorithms deliver phase and absorption contrast images at a resolutionmore » beyond that of the illuminating lens or beam size. Using 5.2-keV X-rays, we have obtained sub-30-nm resolution structural images and ~90-nm-resolution fluorescence images of several elements in frozen-hydrated green algae. Finally, this combined approach offers a way to study the role of trace elements in their structural context.« less

Simultaneous cryo X-ray ptychographic and fluorescence microscopy of green algae

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

Deng, Junjing; Vine, David J.; Chen, Si

Trace metals play important roles in normal and in disease-causing biological functions. X-ray fluorescence microscopy reveals trace elements with no dependence on binding affinities (unlike with visible light fluorophores) and with improved sensitivity relative to electron probes. However, X-ray fluorescence is not very sensitive for showing the light elements that comprise the majority of cellular material. Here we show that X-ray ptychography can be combined with fluorescence to image both cellular structure and trace element distribution in frozen-hydrated cells at cryogenic temperatures, with high structural and chemical fidelity. Ptychographic reconstruction algorithms deliver phase and absorption contrast images at a resolutionmore » beyond that of the illuminating lens or beam size. Using 5.2-keV X-rays, we have obtained sub-30-nm resolution structural images and similar to 90-nm-resolution fluorescence images of several elements in frozen-hydrated green algae. This combined approach offers a way to study the role of trace elements in their structural context.« less

Trace metal fluxes to ferromanganese nodules from the western Baltic Sea as a record for long-term environmental changes

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

Hlawatsch, S.; Garbe-Schonberg, C.D.; Lechtenberg, F.

Trace element profiles in ferromanganese nodules from the western Baltic Sea were analyzed with laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (LA-ICP-MS) and synchrotron-based micro-X-ray radiation techniques (fluorescence: mSXRF, and diffraction: mXRD) at high spatial resolution in growth direction. Of the trace elements studied (Zn, Cu, Cd, Ni, Co, Mo, Ba), Zn showed the most significant enrichment, with values in the outermost surface layers of up to six-fold higher than those found in older core parts. The high-resolution Zn profiles provide the necessary temporal resolution for a dating method analogous to dendrochronology. Profiles in various samples collected during two decadesmore » were matched and the overlapping sections used for estimation of the accretion rates. Assuming a continuous accretion of these relatively fast growing nodules (on average 20 mm a-1) over the last century, the Zn enrichment was thus assessed to have commenced around 1860/70 in nodules from the Kiel Bight and in 1880/90 from Mecklenburg Bight, reflecting the enhanced heavy metal emissions with rising industrialization in Europe. Apart from the obvious success with Zn, only As and Co show significant but only 1.5-fold enrichments in the most recent growth layers of the nodules. Other anthropogenic trace metals like Cu and Cd are not at all enriched, which, together with the distinct early-diagenetic Fe/Mn banding, weakens the potential of the nodules for retrospective monitoring.« less

Sensitive Multi-Species Emissions Monitoring: Infrared Laser-Based Detection of Trace-Level Contaminants

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

Steill, Jeffrey D.; Huang, Haifeng; Hoops, Alexandra A.

This report summarizes our development of spectroscopic chemical analysis techniques and spectral modeling for trace-gas measurements of highly-regulated low-concentration species present in flue gas emissions from utility coal boilers such as HCl under conditions of high humidity. Detailed spectral modeling of the spectroscopy of HCl and other important combustion and atmospheric species such as H 2 O, CO 2 , N 2 O, NO 2 , SO 2 , and CH 4 demonstrates that IR-laser spectroscopy is a sensitive multi-component analysis strategy. Experimental measurements from techniques based on IR laser spectroscopy are presented that demonstrate sub-ppm sensitivity levels to thesemore » species. Photoacoustic infrared spectroscopy is used to detect and quantify HCl at ppm levels with extremely high signal-to-noise even under conditions of high relative humidity. Additionally, cavity ring-down IR spectroscopy is used to achieve an extremely high sensitivity to combustion trace gases in this spectral region; ppm level CH 4 is one demonstrated example. The importance of spectral resolution in the sensitivity of a trace-gas measurement is examined by spectral modeling in the mid- and near-IR, and efforts to improve measurement resolution through novel instrument development are described. While previous project reports focused on benefits and complexities of the dual-etalon cavity ring-down infrared spectrometer, here details on steps taken to implement this unique and potentially revolutionary instrument are described. This report also illustrates and critiques the general strategy of IR- laser photodetection of trace gases leading to the conclusion that mid-IR laser spectroscopy techniques provide a promising basis for further instrument development and implementation that will enable cost-effective sensitive detection of multiple key contaminant species simultaneously.« less

Trace gas retrievals from Airborne Compact Atmospheric Mapper (ACAM) observations during the 2011 DISCOVER-AQ flight campaign

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, X.; Kowalewski, M. G.; Janz, S. J.; Bhartia, P. K.; Chance, K.; Krotkov, N. A.; Pickering, K. E.; Crawford, J. H.

2011-12-01

The DISCOVER-AQ (Deriving Information on Surface Conditions from Column and Vertically Resolved Observations Relevant to Air Quality) mission has just finished its first flight campaign in the Baltimore-Washington D.C. area in July 2011. The ACAM, flown on board the NASA UC-12 aircraft, includes two spectrographs covering the spectral region 304-900 nm and a high-definition video camera, and is expected to provide column measurements of several important air quality trace gases and aerosols for the DISCOVER-AQ mission. The quick look results for NO2 have been shown to very useful in capturing the strong spatiotemporal variability of NO2. Preliminary fitting of UV/Visible spectra has shown that ACAM measurements have adequate signal to noise ratio to measure the trace gases O2, NO2, HCHO, and maybe SO2 and CHOCHO, at individual pixel resolution, although a great deal of effort is needed to improve the instrument calibration and derive proper reference spectrum for retrieving absolute trace gas column densities. In this study, we present analysis of ACAM instrument calibration including slit function, wavelength registration, and radiometric calibration for both nadir-viewing and zenith-sky measurements. Based on this analysis, an irradiance reference spectrum at ACAM resolution will be derived from a high-resolution reference spectrum with additional correction to account for instrument calibration. Using the derived reference spectrum and/or the measured zenith sky measurements, we will perform non-linear least squares fitting to investigate the retrievals of slant column densities of these trace gases from ACAM measurements, and also use an optimal estimation based algorithm including full radiative transfer calculations to derive the vertical column densities of these trace gases. The initial results will be compared with available in-situ and ground-based measurements taken during the DISCOVER-AQ campaign.

Xenia Mission: Spacecraft Design Concept

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hopkins, R. C.; Johnson, C. L.; Kouveliotou, C.; Jones, D.; Baysinger, M.; Bedsole, T.; Maples, C. C.; Benfield, P. J.; Turner, M.; Capizzo, P.;

Measurement of high-resolution mechanical contraction of cardiac muscle by induced eddy current.

PubMed

Lee, Young-Jae; Lee, Kang-Hwi; Kang, Seung-Jin; Kim, Kyeung-Nam; Khang, Seonah; Koo, Hye Ran; Gi, Sunok; Lee, Joo Hyeon; Lee, Jeong-Whan

2014-01-01

There are many types of devices which help to manage a personal health conditions such as heartbeat chest belt, pedometer and smart watch. And the most common device has the relationship with heart rate or ECG data. However, users have to attach some electrode or fasten the belt on the bare skin to measure bio-signal information. Therefore, most of people want more convenient and short-ready-time and no-need to attach electrode. In this paper, we proposed the high-resolution measuring system of mechanical activity of cardiac muscle and thereby measure heartbeat. The principle of the proposed measuring method is that the alternating current generate alternating magnetic field around coil. This primary magnetic field induces eddy current which makes magnetic field against primary coil in the nearby objects. To measure high-resolution changes of the induced secondary magnetic fields, we used digital Phase-locked loop(PLL) circuit which provides more high-resolution traces of frequency changes than the previous studies based on digital frequency counter method. As a result of our preliminary experiment, peak-peak intervals of the proposed method showed high correlation with R-R intervals of clinical ECG signals(r=0.9249). Also, from signal traces of the proposed method, we might make a conjecture that the contraction of atrium or ventricle is reflected by changing conductivity of cardiac muscle which is beating ceaselessly.

The role of high-energy synchrotron radiation in biomedical trace element research

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

Pounds, J.G.; Long, G.J.; Kwiatek, W.M.

1987-01-01

This paper will present the results of an investigation of the distribution of essential elements in the normal hepatic lobule. the liver is the organ responsible for metabolism and storage of most trace elements. Although parenchymal hepatocytes are rather uniform histologically, morphometry, histochemistry, immunohistochemistry, and microdissection with microchemical investigations have revealed marked heterogeneity on a functional and biochemical level. Hepatocytes from the periportal and perivenous zones of the liver parrenchyma differ in oxidative energy metabolism, glucose uptake and output, unreagenesis, biotransformation, bile acid secretion, and palsma protein synthesis and secretion. Although trace elements are intimately involved in the regulation andmore » maintenance of these functions, little is known regarding the heterogeneity of trace element localization of the liver parenchyma. Histochemical techniques for trace elements generally give high spatial resolution, but lack specificity and stoichiometry. Microdissection has been of marginal usefulness for trace element analyses due to the very small size of the dissected parenchyma. The characteristics of the high-energy x-ray microscope provide an effective approach for elucidating the trace element content of these small biological structures or regions. 5 refs., 1 fig., 1 tab.« less

ChelomEx: Isotope-assisted discovery of metal chelates in complex media using high-resolution LC-MS.

PubMed

Baars, Oliver; Morel, François M M; Perlman, David H

2014-11-18

Chelating agents can control the speciation and reactivity of trace metals in biological, environmental, and laboratory-derived media. A large number of trace metals (including Fe, Cu, Zn, Hg, and others) show characteristic isotopic fingerprints that can be exploited for the discovery of known and unknown organic metal complexes and related chelating ligands in very complex sample matrices using high-resolution liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS). However, there is currently no free open-source software available for this purpose. We present a novel software tool, ChelomEx, which identifies isotope pattern-matched chromatographic features associated with metal complexes along with free ligands and other related adducts in high-resolution LC-MS data. High sensitivity and exclusion of false positives are achieved by evaluation of the chromatographic coherence of the isotope pattern within chromatographic features, which we demonstrate through the analysis of bacterial culture media. A built-in graphical user interface and compound library aid in identification and efficient evaluation of results. ChelomEx is implemented in MatLab. The source code, binaries for MS Windows and MAC OS X as well as test LC-MS data are available for download at SourceForge ( http://sourceforge.net/projects/chelomex ).

Analysis of Trace Siderophile Elements at High Spatial Resolution Using Laser Ablation ICP-MS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Campbell, A. J.; Humayun, M.

2006-05-01

Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectometry is an increasingly important method of performing spatially resolved trace element analyses. Over the last several years we have applied this technique to measure siderophile element distributions at the ppm level in a variety of natural and synthetic samples, especially metallic phases in meteorites and experimental run products intended for trace element partitioning studies. These samples frequently require trace element analyses to be made at a finer spatial resolution (25 microns or better) than is frequently attained using LA-ICP-MS. In this presentation we review analytical protocols that were developed to optimize the LA-ICP-MS measurements for high spatial resolution. Particular attention is paid to the trade-offs involving sensitivity, ablation pit depth and diameter, background levels, and number of elements measured. To maximize signal/background ratios and avoid difficulties associated with ablating to depths greater than the ablation pit diameter, measurement involved integration of rapidly varying, transient but well-behaved signals. The abundances of platinum group elements and other siderophile elements in ferrous metals were calibrated against well-characterized standards, including iron meteorites and NIST certified steels. The calibrations can be set against the known abundance of an independently determined element, but normalization to 100 percent can also be employed, and was more useful in many circumstances. Evaluation of uncertainties incorporated counting statistics as well as a measure of instrumental uncertainty, determined by replicate analyses of the standards. These methods have led to a number of insights into the formation and chemical processing of metal in the early solar system.

Transplantation of epiphytic bioaccumulators (Tillandsia capillaris) for high spatial resolution biomonitoring of trace elements and point sources deconvolution in a complex mining/smelting urban context

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goix, Sylvaine; Resongles, Eléonore; Point, David; Oliva, Priscia; Duprey, Jean Louis; de la Galvez, Erika; Ugarte, Lincy; Huayta, Carlos; Prunier, Jonathan; Zouiten, Cyril; Gardon, Jacques

2013-12-01

Monitoring atmospheric trace elements (TE) levels and tracing their source origin is essential for exposure assessment and human health studies. Epiphytic Tillandsia capillaris plants were used as bioaccumulator of TE in a complex polymetallic mining/smelting urban context (Oruro, Bolivia). Specimens collected from a pristine reference site were transplanted at a high spatial resolution (˜1 sample/km2) throughout the urban area. About twenty-seven elements were measured after a 4-month exposure, also providing new information values for reference material BCR482. Statistical power analysis for this biomonitoring mapping approach against classical aerosols surveys performed on the same site showed the better aptitude of T. Capillaris to detect geographical trend, and to deconvolute multiple contamination sources using geostatistical principal component analysis. Transplanted specimens in the vicinity of the mining and smelting areas were characterized by extreme TE accumulation (Sn > Ag > Sb > Pb > Cd > As > W > Cu > Zn). Three contamination sources were identified: mining (Ag, Pb, Sb), smelting (As, Sn) and road traffic (Zn) emissions, confirming results of previous aerosol survey.

A data distributed parallel algorithm for ray-traced volume rendering

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ma, Kwan-Liu; Painter, James S.; Hansen, Charles D.; Krogh, Michael F.

1993-01-01

This paper presents a divide-and-conquer ray-traced volume rendering algorithm and a parallel image compositing method, along with their implementation and performance on the Connection Machine CM-5, and networked workstations. This algorithm distributes both the data and the computations to individual processing units to achieve fast, high-quality rendering of high-resolution data. The volume data, once distributed, is left intact. The processing nodes perform local ray tracing of their subvolume concurrently. No communication between processing units is needed during this locally ray-tracing process. A subimage is generated by each processing unit and the final image is obtained by compositing subimages in the proper order, which can be determined a priori. Test results on both the CM-5 and a group of networked workstations demonstrate the practicality of our rendering algorithm and compositing method.

Contour advection with surgery: A technique for investigating finescale structure in tracer transport

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Waugh, Darryn W.; Plumb, R. Alan

1994-01-01

We present a trajectory technique, contour advection with surgery (CAS), for tracing the evolution of material contours in a specified (including observed) evolving flow. CAS uses the algorithms developed by Dritschel for contour dynamics/surgery to trace the evolution of specified contours. The contours are represented by a series of particles, which are advected by a specified, gridded, wind distribution. The resolution of the contours is preserved by continually adjusting the number of particles, and finescale features are produced that are not present in the input data (and cannot easily be generated using standard trajectory techniques). The reliability, and dependence on the spatial and temporal resolution of the wind field, of the CAS procedure is examined by comparisons with high-resolution numerical data (from contour dynamics calculations and from a general circulation model), and with routine stratospheric analyses. These comparisons show that the large-scale motions dominate the deformation field and that CAS can accurately reproduce small scales from low-resolution wind fields. The CAS technique therefore enables examination of atmospheric tracer transport at previously unattainable resolution.

Laser Ray Tracing in a Parallel Arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian Adaptive Mesh Refinement Hydrocode

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

Masters, N D; Kaiser, T B; Anderson, R W

2009-09-28

ALE-AMR is a new hydrocode that we are developing as a predictive modeling tool for debris and shrapnel formation in high-energy laser experiments. In this paper we present our approach to implementing laser ray-tracing in ALE-AMR. We present the equations of laser ray tracing, our approach to efficient traversal of the adaptive mesh hierarchy in which we propagate computational rays through a virtual composite mesh consisting of the finest resolution representation of the modeled space, and anticipate simulations that will be compared to experiments for code validation.

High resolution study of magnetic ordering at absolute zero.

PubMed

Lee, M; Husmann, A; Rosenbaum, T F; Aeppli, G

2004-05-07

High resolution pressure measurements in the zero-temperature limit provide a unique opportunity to study the behavior of strongly interacting, itinerant electrons with coupled spin and charge degrees of freedom. Approaching the precision that has become the hallmark of experiments on classical critical phenomena, we characterize the quantum critical behavior of the model, elemental antiferromagnet chromium, lightly doped with vanadium. We resolve the sharp doubling of the Hall coefficient at the quantum critical point and trace the dominating effects of quantum fluctuations up to surprisingly high temperatures.

Advantages of wet work for near-surface seismic reflection

USGS Publications Warehouse

Miller, R.D.; Markiewicz, R.D.; Rademacker, T.R.; Hopkins, R.; Rawcliffe, R.J.; Paquin, J.

2007-01-01

Benefits of shallow water settings (0.1 to 0.5 m) are pronounced on shallow, high-resolution seismic reflection images and, for examples discussed here, range from an order of magnitude increased signal-to-noise ratio to resolution potential elevated by more than 8 times. Overall data quality of high-resolution seismic reflection data at three sites notorious for poor near-surface reflection returns was improved by coupling the source and/or receivers to a well sorted and fully saturated surface. Half-period trace-to-trace static offsets evident in reflections from receivers planted into a creek bank were eliminated by moving the geophones to the base of a shallow creek at the toe of the bank. Reflections from a dipping bedrock were recorded with a dominant frequency approaching 1 KHz from hydrophones in 0.5 m of water at the toe of a dam using a hammer impact source. A tamper impacted by a dead blow hammer in a shallow (10-20 cm) deep creek produced reflections with a dominant frequency over 400 Hz at depths as shallow as 6 ms. ?? 2007 Society of Exploration Geophysicists.

Multiframe super resolution reconstruction method based on light field angular images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Shubo; Yuan, Yan; Su, Lijuan; Ding, Xiaomin; Wang, Jichao

2017-12-01

The plenoptic camera can directly obtain 4-dimensional light field information from a 2-dimensional sensor. However, based on the sampling theorem, the spatial resolution is greatly limited by the microlenses. In this paper, we present a method of reconstructing high-resolution images from the angular images. First, the ray tracing method is used to model the telecentric-based light field imaging process. Then, we analyze the subpixel shifts between the angular images extracted from the defocused light field data and the blur in the angular images. According to the analysis above, we construct the observation model from the ideal high-resolution image to the angular images. Applying the regularized super resolution method, we can obtain the super resolution result with a magnification ratio of 8. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed observation model.

Remote Sensing from Geostationary Orbit: GEO TROPSAT, A New Concept for Atmospheric Remote Sensing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Little, Alan D.; Neil, Doreen O.; Sachse, Glen W.; Fishman, Jack; Krueger, Arlin J.

1997-01-01

The Geostationary Tropospheric Pollution Satellite (GEO TROPSAT) mission is a new approach to measuring the critical constituents of tropospheric ozone chemistry: ozone, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and aerosols. The GEO TROPSAT mission comprises a constellation of three instruments flying as secondary payloads on geostationary communications satellites around the world. This proposed approach can significantly reduce the cost of getting a science payload to geostationary orbit and also generates revenue for the satellite owners. The geostationary vantage point enables simultaneous high temporal and spatial resolution measurement of tropospheric trace gases, leading to greatly improved atmospheric ozone chemistry knowledge. The science data processing, conducted as a research (not operational) activity, will provide atmospheric trace gas data many times per day over the same region at better than 25 km ground footprint. The high temporal resolution identifies short time scale processes, diurnal variations, seasonal trends, and interannual variation.

AXAF-1 high-resolution mirror assembly image model and comparison with x-ray ground-test image

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zissa, David E.

1999-09-01

The completed High Resolution Mirror Assembly (HRMA) of the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility - Imaging (AXAF-I) was tested at the X-ray Calibration Facility (XRCF) at the NASA- Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) in 1997. The MSFC image model was developed during the development of AXAF-I. The MSFC model is a detailed ray-trace model of the as-built HRMA optics and the XRCF teste conditions. The image encircled-energy distributions from the model are found to general agree well with XRCF test data nd the preliminary Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) model. MSFC model effective-area result generally agree with those of the preliminary SAO model. Preliminary model effective-area results were reported by SAO to be approximately 5-13 percent above initial XRCF test results. The XRCF test conditions are removed from the MSFC ray-trace model to derive an on-orbit prediction of the HRMA image.

Resonant inelastic X-ray scattering spectrometer with 25meV resolution at the Cu K -edge

DOE PAGES

Ketenoglu, Didem; Harder, Manuel; Klementiev, Konstantin; ...

2015-06-27

An unparalleled resolution is reported with an inelastic X-ray scattering instrument at the CuK-edge. Based on a segmented concave analyzer, featuring single-crystal quartz (SiO 2) pixels, the spectrometer delivers a resolution near 25meV (FWHM) at 8981eV. Besides the quartz analyzer, the performance of the spectrometer relies on a four-bounce Si(553) high-resolution monochromator and focusing Kirkpatrick–Baez optics. The measured resolution agrees with the ray-tracing simulation of an ideal spectrometer. The performance of the spectrometer is demonstrated by reproducing the phonon dispersion curve of a beryllium single-crystal.

High resolution manometry findings in patients with esophageal epiphrenic diverticula.

PubMed

Vicentine, Fernando P P; Herbella, Fernando A M; Silva, Luciana C; Patti, Marco G

2011-12-01

The pathophysiology of esophageal epiphrenic diverticula is still uncertain even though a concomitant motility disorder is found in the majority of patients in different series. High resolution manometry may allow detection of motor abnormalities in a higher number of patients with esophageal epiphrenic diverticula compared with conventional manometry. This study aims to evaluate the high resolution manometry findings in patients with esophageal epiphrenic diverticula. Nine individuals (mean age 63 ± 10 years, 4 females) with esophageal epiphrenic diverticula underwent high resolution manometry. A single diverticulum was observed in eight patients and multiple diverticula in one. Visual analysis of conventional tracings and color pressure plots for identification of segmental abnormalities was performed by two researchers experienced in high resolution manometry. Upper esophageal sphincter was normal in all patients. Esophageal body was abnormal in eight patients; lower esophageal sphincter was abnormal in seven patients. Named esophageal motility disorders were found in seven patients: achalasia in six, diffuse esophageal spasm in one. In one patient, a segmental hypercontractile zone was noticed with pressure of 196 mm Hg. High resolution manometry demonstrated motor abnormalities in all patients with esophageal epiphrenic diverticula.

Solid-phase extraction and separation procedure for trace aluminum in water samples and its determination by high-resolution continuum source flame atomic absorption spectrometry (HR-CS FAAS).

PubMed

Ciftci, Harun; Er, Cigdem

2013-03-01

In the present study, a separation/preconcentration procedure for determination of aluminum in water samples has been developed by using a new atomic absorption spectrometer concept with a high-intensity xenon short-arc lamp as continuum radiation source, a high-resolution double-echelle monochromator, and a charge-coupled device array detector. Sample solution pH, sample volume, flow rate of sample solution, volume, and concentration of eluent for solid-phase extraction of Al chelates with 4-[(dicyanomethyl)diazenyl] benzoic acid on polymeric resin (Duolite XAD-761) have been investigated. The adsorbed aluminum on resin was eluted with 5 mL of 2 mol L(-1) HNO(3) and its concentration was determined by high-resolution continuum source flame atomic absorption spectrometry (HR-CS FAAS). Under the optimal conditions, limit of detection obtained with HR-CS FAAS and Line Source FAAS (LS-FAAS) were 0.49 μg L(-1) and 3.91 μg L(-1), respectively. The accuracy of the procedure was confirmed by analyzing certified materials (NIST SRM 1643e, Trace elements in water) and spiked real samples. The developed procedure was successfully applied to water samples.

Characterization of a Quadrotor Unmanned Aircraft System for Aerosol-Particle-Concentration Measurements.

PubMed

Brady, James M; Stokes, M Dale; Bonnardel, Jim; Bertram, Timothy H

2016-02-02

High-spatial-resolution, near-surface vertical profiling of atmospheric chemical composition is currently limited by the availability of experimental platforms that can sample in constrained environments. As a result, measurements of near-surface gradients in trace gas and aerosol particle concentrations have been limited to studies conducted from fixed location towers or tethered balloons. Here, we explore the utility of a quadrotor unmanned aircraft system (UAS) as a sampling platform to measure vertical and horizontal concentration gradients of trace gases and aerosol particles at high spatial resolution (1 m) within the mixed layer (0-100 m). A 3D Robotics Iris+ autonomous quadrotor UAS was outfitted with a sensor package consisting of a two-channel aerosol optical particle counter and a CO2 sensor. The UAS demonstrated high precision in both vertical (±0.5 m) and horizontal positions (±1 m), highlighting the potential utility of quadrotor UAS drones for aerosol- and trace-gas measurements within complex terrain, such as the urban environment, forest canopies, and above difficult-to-access areas such as breaking surf. Vertical profiles of aerosol particle number concentrations, acquired from flights conducted along the California coastline, were used to constrain sea-spray aerosol-emission rates from coastal wave breaking.

Estimation of pseudo-2D shear-velocity section by inversion of high frequency surface waves

USGS Publications Warehouse

Luo, Y.; Liu, J.; Xia, J.; Xu, Y.; Liu, Q.

2006-01-01

A scheme to generate pseudo-2D shear-velocity sections with high horizontal resolution and low field cost by inversion of high frequency surface waves is presented. It contains six steps. The key step is the joint method of crossed correlation and phase shift scanning. This joint method chooses only two traces to generate image of dispersion curve. For Rayleigh-wave dispersion is most important for estimation of near-surface shear-wave velocity, it can effectively obtain reliable images of dispersion curves with a couple of traces. The result of a synthetic example shows the feasibility of this scheme. ?? 2005 Society of Exploration Geophysicists.

Improvement and validation of trace gas retrieval from ACAM aircraft observation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, C.; Liu, X.; Kowalewski, M. G.; Janz, S. J.; Gonzalez Abad, G.; Pickering, K. E.; Chance, K.; Lamsal, L. N.

2014-12-01

The ACAM (Airborne Compact Atmospheric Mapper) instrument, flown on board the NASA UC-12 aircraft during the DISCOVER-AQ (Deriving Information on Surface Conditions from Column and Vertically Resolved Observations Relevant to Air Quality) campaigns, was designed to provide remote sensing observations of tropospheric and boundary layer pollutants and help understand some of the most important pollutants that directly affect the health of the population. In this study, slant column densities (SCD) of trace gases (O3, NO2, HCHO) are retrieved from ACAM measurements during the Baltimore-Washington D.C. 2011 campaign by the Basic Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (BOAS) trace gas fitting algorithm using a nonlinear least-squares (NLLS) inversion technique, and then are converted to vertical column densities (VCDs) using the Air Mass Factors (AMF) calculated with the VLIDORT (Vector Linearized Discrete Ordinate Radiative Transfer) model and CMAQ (Community Multi-scale Air Quality) model simulations of trace gas profiles. For surface treatment in the AMF, we use high-resolution MODIS climatological BRDF product (Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function) at 470 nm for NO2, and use high-resolution surface albedo derived by combining MODIS and OMI albedo databases for HCHO and O3. We validate ACAM results with coincident ground-based PANDORA, aircraft (P3B) spiral and satellite (OMI) measurements and find out generally good agreement especially for NO2 and O3

A compact high resolution ion mobility spectrometer for fast trace gas analysis.

PubMed

Kirk, Ansgar T; Allers, Maria; Cochems, Philipp; Langejuergen, Jens; Zimmermann, Stefan

2013-09-21

Drift tube ion mobility spectrometers (IMS) are widely used for fast trace gas detection in air, but portable compact systems are typically very limited in their resolving power. Decreasing the initial ion packet width improves the resolution, but is generally associated with a reduced signal-to-noise-ratio (SNR) due to the lower number of ions injected into the drift region. In this paper, we present a refined theory of IMS operation which employs a combined approach for the analysis of the ion drift and the subsequent amplification to predict both the resolution and the SNR of the measured ion current peak. This theoretical analysis shows that the SNR is not a function of the initial ion packet width, meaning that compact drift tube IMS with both very high resolution and extremely low limits of detection can be designed. Based on these implications, an optimized combination of a compact drift tube with a length of just 10 cm and a transimpedance amplifier has been constructed with a resolution of 183 measured for the positive reactant ion peak (RIP(+)), which is sufficient to e.g. separate the RIP(+) from the protonated acetone monomer, even though their drift times only differ by a factor of 1.007. Furthermore, the limits of detection (LODs) for acetone are 180 pptv within 1 s of averaging time and 580 pptv within only 100 ms.

Characterization of flux-grown Trace-element-doped titanite using the high-mass-resolution ion microprobe (SHRIMP-RG)

USGS Publications Warehouse

Mazdab, F.K.

2009-01-01

Crystals of titanite can be readily grown under ambient pressure from a mixture of CaO, TiO2 and SiO2 in the presence of molten sodium tetraborate. The crystals produced are euhedral and prismatic, lustrous and transparent, and up to 5 mm in length. Titanite obtained by this method contains approximately 4300 ppm Na and 220 ppm B contributed from the flux. In addition to dopant-free material, titanite containing trace alkali and alkaline earth metals (K, Sr, Ba), transition metals (Sc, Cr, Ni, Y, Zr, Nb, Hf and Ta), rare-earth elements (REE), actinides (Th, U) and p-block elements (F, S, Cl, Ge, Sn and Pb) have been prepared using the same procedure. Back-scattered electron (BSE) imaging accompanied by ion-microprobe (SHRIMP-RG) analysis confirms significant incorporation of selected trace-elements at structural sites. Regardless of some zonation, the large size of the crystals and broad regions of chemical homogeneity make these crystals useful as experimental starting material, and as matrix-matched trace-element standards for a variety of microbeam analytical techniques where amorphous titanite glass, heterogeneous natural titanite or a non-titanite standard may be less than satisfactory. Trace-element-doped synthetic crystals can also provide a convenient proxy for a better understanding of trace-element incorporation in natural titanite. Comparisons with igneous, authigenic and high-temperature metasomatic titanite are examined. The use of high-mass-resolution SIMS also demonstrates the analytical challenges inherent to any in situ mass-spectrometry-based analysis of titanite, owing to the production of difficult-to-resolve molecular interferences. These interferences are dominated by Ca-Ca, Ca-Ti and Ti-Ti dimers that are significant in the mass range of 80-100, affecting all isotopes of Sr and Zr, as well as 89Y and 93Nb. Methods do exist for the evaluation of interferences by these dimers and of polyatomic interferences on the LREE.

The Fire INventory from NCAR (FINN): a high resolution global model to estimate the emissions from open burning

Treesearch

C. Wiedinmyer; S. K. Akagi; R. J. Yokelson; L. K. Emmons; J. A. Al-Saadi; J. J. Orlando; A. J. Soja

2010-01-01

The Fire INventory from NCAR version 1.0 (FINNv1) provides daily, 1 km resolution, global estimates of the trace gas and particle emissions from open burning of biomass, which includes wildfire, agricultural fires, and prescribed burning and does not include 5 biofuel use and trash burning. Emission factors used in the calculations have been updated with recent data,...

Layering in halocarbons, methane, nitrous oxide, ozone, and water vapour over mid-latitudes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Orsolini, Yvan J.; Karcher, Fernand; Manney, Gloria L.; Engel, Andreas; Ovarlez, Joelle; Claud, Chantal

1997-01-01

The purpose of the balloon flights performed in March 1993 from Aire-sur-Adour (France) was to measure trace gases in the polar vortex during a dynamically active period. These balloon flights revealed coincident layering in long-lived tropospheric source gases. A layer of mid-latitude air, enriched in trace gases, was detected at sampled levels near 15 mbar. High resolution advection models, fine scale distributions of ozone, nitrous oxide, methane, and halocarbons were constructed. The calculations showed how air enriched in trace gases is sampled near 15 mbar when a filament of such air is drawn into the outer portion of the vortex.

Quantifying methane emission from fugitive sources by combining tracer release and downwind measurements - a sensitivity analysis based on multiple field surveys.

PubMed

Mønster, Jacob G; Samuelsson, Jerker; Kjeldsen, Peter; Rella, Chris W; Scheutz, Charlotte

2014-08-01

Using a dual species methane/acetylene instrument based on cavity ring down spectroscopy (CRDS), the dynamic plume tracer dispersion method for quantifying the emission rate of methane was successfully tested in four measurement campaigns: (1) controlled methane and trace gas release with different trace gas configurations, (2) landfill with unknown emission source locations, (3) landfill with closely located emission sources, and (4) comparing with an Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) instrument using multiple trace gasses for source separation. The new real-time, high precision instrument can measure methane plumes more than 1.2 km away from small sources (about 5 kg h(-1)) in urban areas with a measurement frequency allowing plume crossing at normal driving speed. The method can be used for quantification of total methane emissions from diffuse area sources down to 1 kg per hour and can be used to quantify individual sources with the right choice of wind direction and road distance. The placement of the trace gas is important for obtaining correct quantification and uncertainty of up to 36% can be incurred when the trace gas is not co-located with the methane source. Measurements made at greater distances are less sensitive to errors in trace gas placement and model calculations showed an uncertainty of less than 5% in both urban and open-country for placing the trace gas 100 m from the source, when measurements were done more than 3 km away. Using the ratio of the integrated plume concentrations of tracer gas and methane gives the most reliable results for measurements at various distances to the source, compared to the ratio of the highest concentration in the plume, the direct concentration ratio and using a Gaussian plume model. Under suitable weather and road conditions, the CRDS system can quantify the emission from different sources located close to each other using only one kind of trace gas due to the high time resolution, while the FTIR system can measure multiple trace gasses but with a lower time resolution. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Appending High-Resolution Elevation Data to GPS Speed Traces for Vehicle Energy Modeling and Simulation

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

Wood, E.; Burton, E.; Duran, A.

Accurate and reliable global positioning system (GPS)-based vehicle use data are highly valuable for many transportation, analysis, and automotive considerations. Model-based design, real-world fuel economy analysis, and the growing field of autonomous and connected technologies (including predictive powertrain control and self-driving cars) all have a vested interest in high-fidelity estimation of powertrain loads and vehicle usage profiles. Unfortunately, road grade can be a difficult property to extract from GPS data with consistency. In this report, we present a methodology for appending high-resolution elevation data to GPS speed traces via a static digital elevation model. Anomalous data points in the digitalmore » elevation model are addressed during a filtration/smoothing routine, resulting in an elevation profile that can be used to calculate road grade. This process is evaluated against a large, commercially available height/slope dataset from the Navteq/Nokia/HERE Advanced Driver Assistance Systems product. Results will show good agreement with the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems data in the ability to estimate road grade between any two consecutive points in the contiguous United States.« less

A Computational Framework for High-Throughput Isotopic Natural Abundance Correction of Omics-Level Ultra-High Resolution FT-MS Datasets

PubMed Central

Carreer, William J.; Flight, Robert M.; Moseley, Hunter N. B.

2013-01-01

New metabolomics applications of ultra-high resolution and accuracy mass spectrometry can provide thousands of detectable isotopologues, with the number of potentially detectable isotopologues increasing exponentially with the number of stable isotopes used in newer isotope tracing methods like stable isotope-resolved metabolomics (SIRM) experiments. This huge increase in usable data requires software capable of correcting the large number of isotopologue peaks resulting from SIRM experiments in a timely manner. We describe the design of a new algorithm and software system capable of handling these high volumes of data, while including quality control methods for maintaining data quality. We validate this new algorithm against a previous single isotope correction algorithm in a two-step cross-validation. Next, we demonstrate the algorithm and correct for the effects of natural abundance for both 13C and 15N isotopes on a set of raw isotopologue intensities of UDP-N-acetyl-D-glucosamine derived from a 13C/15N-tracing experiment. Finally, we demonstrate the algorithm on a full omics-level dataset. PMID:24404440

Dual-comb spectroscopy of laser-induced plasmas

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

Bergevin, Jenna; Wu, Tsung-Han; Yeak, Jeremy

Dual-comb spectroscopy has become a powerful spectroscopic technique in applications that rely on its broad spectral coverage combined with high frequency resolution capabilities. Experiments to date have primarily focused on detection and analysis of multiple gas species under semi-static conditions, with applications ranging from environmental monitoring of greenhouse gases to high resolution molecular spectroscopy. Here, we utilize dual-comb spectroscopy to demonstrate broadband, high-resolution, and time-resolved measurements in a laser induced plasma for the first time. As a first demonstration, we simultaneously detect trace amounts of Rb and K in solid samples with a single laser ablation shot, with transitions separatedmore » by over 6 THz (13 nm) and spectral resolution sufficient to resolve isotopic and ground state hyperfine splittings of the Rb D2 line. This new spectroscopic approach offers the broad spectral coverage found in the powerful techniques of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) while providing the high-resolution and accuracy of cw laser-based spectroscopies.« less

Collaborative Study for Analysis of High Resolution Infrared Atmospheric Spectra Between NASA Langley Research Center and the University of Denver

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goldman, A.

2002-01-01

The Langley-D.U. collaboration on the analysis of high resolultion infrared atmospheric spectra covered a number of important studies of trace gases identification and quantification from field spectra, and spectral line parameters analysis. The collaborative work included: 1) Quantification and monitoring of trace gases from ground-based spectra available from various locations and seasons and from balloon flights; 2) Identification and preliminary quantification of several isotopic species, including oxygen and Sulfur isotopes; 3) Search for new species on the available spectra, including the use of selective coadding of ground-based spectra for high signal to noise; 4) Update of spectroscopic line parameters, by combining laboratory and atmospheric spectra with theoretical spectroscopy methods; 5) Study of trends and correlations of atmosphere trace constituents; and 6) Algorithms developments, retrievals intercomparisons and automatization of the analysis of NDSC spectra, for both column amounts and vertical profiles.

Mid-Infrared OPO for High Resolution Measurements of Trace Gases in the Mars Atmosphere

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yu, Anthony W.; Numata,Kenji; Riris, haris; Abshire, James B.; Allan, Graham; Sun, Xiaoli; Krainak, Michael A.

2008-01-01

The Martian atmosphere is composed primarily (>95%) of CO2 and N2 gas, with CO, O2, CH4, and inert gases such as argon comprising most of the remainder. It is surprisingly dynamic with various processes driving changes in the distribution of CO2, dust, haze, clouds and water vapor on global scales in the meteorology of Mars atmosphere [I]. The trace gases and isotopic ratios in the atmosphere offer important but subtle clues as to the origins of the planet's atmosphere, hydrology, geology, and potential for biology. In the search for life on Mars, an important process is the ability of bacteria to metabolize inorganic substrates (H2, CO2 and rock) to derive energy and produce methane as a by-product of anaerobic metabolism. Trace gases have been measured in the Mars atmosphere from Earth, Mars orbit, and from the Mars surface. The concentration of water vapor and various carbon-based trace gases are observed in variable concentrations. Within the past decade multiple groups have reported detection of CH4, with concentrations in the 10's of ppb, using spectroscopic observations from Earth [2]. Passive spectrometers in the mid-infrared (MIR) are restricted to the sunlit side of the planet, generally in the mid latitudes, and have limited spectral and spatial resolution. To accurately map the global distribution and to locate areas of possibly higher concentrations of these gases such as plumes or vents requires an instrument with high sensitivity and fine spatial resolution that also has global coverage and can measure during both day and night. Our development goal is a new MIR lidar capable of measuring, on global scales, with sensitivity, resolution and precision needed to characterize the trace gases and isotopic ratios of the Martian atmosphere. An optical parametric oscillator operating in the MIR is well suited for this instrument. The sufficient wavelength tuning range of the OPO can extend the measurements to other organic molecules, CO2, atmospheric water vapor, clouds, temperature, dust, and aerosols, as well as possibly polar-cap properties. Our OPO-approach may allow a new capability for active remote sensing of the outer planets and moons, where the weaker sunlight further limit passive instruments. Here we report on the OPO development effort for this lidar instrument.

Determination of 241Am in sediments by isotope dilution high resolution inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ID HR ICP-MS).

PubMed

Agarande, M; Benzoubir, S; Bouisset, P; Calmet, D

2001-08-01

Trace levels (pg kg(-1)) of 241Am in sediments were determined by isotope dilution high resolution inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ID HR ICP-MS) using a microconcentric nebulizer. 241Am was isolated from major elements like Ca and Fe by different selective precipitations. In further steps. Am was first separated from other transuranic elements and purified by anion exchange and extraction chromatography prior to the mass spectrometric measurements. The ID HR ICP-MS results are compared with isotope dilution alpha spectrometry.

SPOT satellite mapping of Ice Stream B

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Merry, Carolyn J.

1993-01-01

Numerous features of glaciological significance appear on two adjoining SPOT High Resolution Visible (HRV) images that cover the onset region of ice stream B. Many small-scale features, such as crevasses and drift plumes, have been previously observed in aerial photography. Subtle features, such as long flow traces that have not been mapped previously, are also clear in the satellite imagery. Newly discovered features include ladder-like runners and rungs within certain shear margins, flow traces that are parallel to ice flow, unusual crevasse patterns, and flow traces originating within shear margins. An objective of our work is to contribute to an understanding of the genesis of the features observed in satellite imagery. The genetic possibilities for flow traces, other lineations, bands of transverse crevasses, shear margins, mottles, and lumps and warps are described.

WGA-Alexa conjugates for axonal tracing

PubMed Central

Levy, Sabrina L.; White, Joshua J.; Lackey, Elizabeth P.; Schwartz, Lindsey; Sillitoe, Roy V.

2017-01-01

Anatomical labeling approaches are essential for understanding brain organization. Among these approaches are various methods of performing tract tracing. However, a major hurdle to overcome when marking neurons in vivo is visibility. Poor visibility makes it challenging to image a desired neuronal pathway so that it can be easily differentiated from a closely neighboring pathway. As a result, it becomes impossible to analyze individual projections or their connections. The tracer that is chosen for a given purpose has a major influence on the quality of the tracing. Here, we describe the wheat germ agglutinin (WGA) tracer conjugated to Alexa fluorophores for reliable high-resolution tracing of central nervous system projections. Using the mouse cerebellum as a model system, we implement WGA-Alexa tracing for marking and mapping neural circuits that control motor function. We also show its utility for marking localized regions of the cerebellum after performing single-unit extracellular recordings in vivo. PMID:28398642

Using whole genome sequencing to study American foulbrood epidemiology in honeybees

PubMed Central

Ågren, Joakim; Schäfer, Marc Oliver

2017-01-01

American foulbrood (AFB), caused by Paenibacillus larvae, is a devastating disease in honeybees. In most countries, the disease is controlled through compulsory burning of symptomatic colonies causing major economic losses in apiculture. The pathogen is endemic to honeybees world-wide and is readily transmitted via the movement of hive equipment or bees. Molecular epidemiology of AFB currently largely relies on placing isolates in one of four ERIC-genotypes. However, a more powerful alternative is multi-locus sequence typing (MLST) using whole-genome sequencing (WGS), which allows for high-resolution studies of disease outbreaks. To evaluate WGS as a tool for AFB-epidemiology, we applied core genome MLST (cgMLST) on isolates from a recent outbreak of AFB in Sweden. The high resolution of the cgMLST allowed different bacterial clones involved in the disease outbreak to be identified and to trace the source of infection. The source was found to be a beekeeper who had sold bees to two other beekeepers, proving the epidemiological link between them. No such conclusion could have been made using conventional MLST or ERIC-typing. This is the first time that WGS has been used to study the epidemiology of AFB. The results show that the technique is very powerful for high-resolution tracing of AFB-outbreaks. PMID:29140998

Nanoscale measurement of trace element distributions in Spartina alterniflora root tissue during dormancy

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

Feng, Huan; Qian, Yu; Cochran, J. Kirk

Here, this article reports a nanometer-scale investigation of trace element (As, Ca, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, S and Zn) distributions in the root system Spartina alterniflora during dormancy. The sample was collected on a salt marsh island in Jamaica Bay, New York, in April 2015 and the root was cross-sectioned with 10 μm resolution. Synchrotron X-ray nanofluorescence was applied to map the trace element distributions in selected areas of the root epidermis and endodermis. The sampling resolution was 60 nm to increase the measurement accuracy and reduce the uncertainty. The results indicate that the elemental concentrations in the epidermis,more » outer endodermis and inner endodermis are significantly (p < 0.01) different. The root endodermis has relatively higher concentrations of these elements than the root epidermis. Furthermore, this high resolution measurement indicates that the elemental concentrations in the outer endodermis are significantly (p < 0.01) higher than those in the inner endodermis. These results suggest that the Casparian strip may play a role in governing the aplastic transport of these elements. Pearson correlation analysis on the average concentrations of each element in the selected areas shows that most of the elements are significantly (p < 0.05) correlated, which suggests that these elements may share the same transport pathways.« less

Nanoscale measurement of trace element distributions in Spartina alterniflora root tissue during dormancy

DOE PAGES

Feng, Huan; Qian, Yu; Cochran, J. Kirk; ...

2017-01-18

Here, this article reports a nanometer-scale investigation of trace element (As, Ca, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, S and Zn) distributions in the root system Spartina alterniflora during dormancy. The sample was collected on a salt marsh island in Jamaica Bay, New York, in April 2015 and the root was cross-sectioned with 10 μm resolution. Synchrotron X-ray nanofluorescence was applied to map the trace element distributions in selected areas of the root epidermis and endodermis. The sampling resolution was 60 nm to increase the measurement accuracy and reduce the uncertainty. The results indicate that the elemental concentrations in the epidermis,more » outer endodermis and inner endodermis are significantly (p < 0.01) different. The root endodermis has relatively higher concentrations of these elements than the root epidermis. Furthermore, this high resolution measurement indicates that the elemental concentrations in the outer endodermis are significantly (p < 0.01) higher than those in the inner endodermis. These results suggest that the Casparian strip may play a role in governing the aplastic transport of these elements. Pearson correlation analysis on the average concentrations of each element in the selected areas shows that most of the elements are significantly (p < 0.05) correlated, which suggests that these elements may share the same transport pathways.« less

Polar research from satellites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thomas, Robert H.

1991-01-01

In the polar regions and climate change section, the topics of ocean/atmosphere heat transfer, trace gases, surface albedo, and response to climate warming are discussed. The satellite instruments section is divided into three parts. Part one is about basic principles and covers, choice of frequencies, algorithms, orbits, and remote sensing techniques. Part two is about passive sensors and covers microwave radiometers, medium-resolution visible and infrared sensors, advanced very high resolution radiometers, optical line scanners, earth radiation budget experiment, coastal zone color scanner, high-resolution imagers, and atmospheric sounding. Part three is about active sensors and covers synthetic aperture radar, radar altimeters, scatterometers, and lidar. There is also a next decade section that is followed by a summary and recommendations section.

High spatial resolution measurements of NO2 applying Topographic Target Light scattering-Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (ToTaL-DOAS)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Frins, E.; Platt, U.; Wagner, T.

2008-06-01

Tomographic Target Light scattering - Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (ToTaL-DOAS), also called Target-DOAS, is a novel experimental procedure to retrieve trace gas concentrations present in the low atmosphere. Scattered sunlight (partially or totally) reflected from natural or artificial targets of similar albedo located at different distances is analyzed to retrieve the concentration of different trace gases like NO2, SO2 and others. We report high spatial resolution measurements of NO2 mixing ratios in the city of Montevideo (Uruguay) observing three buildings as targets with a Mini-DOAS instrument. Our instrument was 146 m apart from the first building, 196 m from the second and 286 m from the third one. All three buildings are located along a main Avenue. We obtain temporal variation of NO2 mixing ratios between 30 ppb and 65 ppb (±2 ppb). Our measurements demonstrate that ToTaL-DOAS measurements can be made over very short distances. In polluted air masses, the retrieved absorption signal was found to be strong enough to allow measurements over distances in the range of several ten meters, and achieve a spatial resolution of 50 m approximately.

Synchrotron-induced X-ray fluorescence from rat bone and lumber vertebra of different age groups

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rao, Donepudi V.; Swapna, Medasani; Cesareo, Roberto; Brunetti, Antonio; Akatsuka, Tako; Yuasa, Tetsuya; Takeda, Tohoru; Tromba, Giuliana; Gigante, Giovanni E.

2009-02-01

The fluorescence spectra from rat bones of different age groups (8, 56 and 78 weeks) and lumber vertebra were measured with 8, 10 and 12 keV synchrotron X-rays. We have utilized the new hard X-ray micro-spectroscopy beamline facility, X27A, available at NSLS with a primary beam spot size of the order of ˜10 μm. With this spatial resolution and high flux throughput, X-ray fluorescent intensities for Ca and other trace elements were measured using a liquid-nitrogen-cooled 13-element energy-dispersive high-purity germanium detector. Regarding the lumber vertebra, we acquired the fluorescence spectra from the left, right and middle portions and calcium accumulation was evaluated and compared with the other samples. We have identified the major trace elements of Ca, Ni, Fe and Zn and minor trace elements of Ti, Cr and Mn in the sample. The percentage of scattered radiation and trace element contributions from these samples were highlighted at different energies.

TESTING THE HYPOTHESIS THAT METHANOL MASER RINGS TRACE CIRCUMSTELLAR DISKS: HIGH-RESOLUTION NEAR-INFRARED AND MID-INFRARED IMAGING

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

De Buizer, James M.; Bartkiewicz, Anna; Szymczak, Marian, E-mail: jdebuizer@sofia.usra.edu

2012-08-01

Milliarcsecond very long baseline interferometry maps of regions containing 6.7 GHz methanol maser emission have lead to the recent discovery of ring-like distributions of maser spots and the plausible hypothesis that they may be tracing circumstellar disks around forming high-mass stars. We aimed to test this hypothesis by imaging these regions in the near- and mid-infrared at high spatial resolution and compare the observed emission to the expected infrared morphologies as inferred from the geometries of the maser rings. In the near-infrared we used the Gemini North adaptive optics system of ALTAIR/NIRI, while in the mid-infrared we used the combinationmore » of the Gemini South instrument T-ReCS and super-resolution techniques. Resultant images had a resolution of {approx}150 mas in both the near-infrared and mid-infrared. We discuss the expected distribution of circumstellar material around young and massive accreting (proto)stars and what infrared emission geometries would be expected for the different maser ring orientations under the assumption that the masers are coming from within circumstellar disks. Based upon the observed infrared emission geometries for the four targets in our sample and the results of spectral energy distribution modeling of the massive young stellar objects associated with the maser rings, we do not find compelling evidence in support of the hypothesis that methanol masers rings reside in circumstellar disks.« less

Dipping-interface mapping using mode-separated Rayleigh waves

USGS Publications Warehouse

Luo, Y.; Xia, J.; Xu, Y.; Zeng, C.; Miller, R.D.; Liu, Q.

2009-01-01

Multichannel analysis of surface waves (MASW) method is a non-invasive geophysical technique that uses the dispersive characteristic of Rayleigh waves to estimate a vertical shear (S)-wave velocity profile. A pseudo-2D S-wave velocity section is constructed by aligning 1D S-wave velocity profiles at the midpoint of each receiver spread that are contoured using a spatial interpolation scheme. The horizontal resolution of the section is therefore most influenced by the receiver spread length and the source interval. Based on the assumption that a dipping-layer model can be regarded as stepped flat layers, high-resolution linear Radon transform (LRT) has been proposed to image Rayleigh-wave dispersive energy and separate modes of Rayleigh waves from a multichannel record. With the mode-separation technique, therefore, a dispersion curve that possesses satisfactory accuracy can be calculated using a pair of consecutive traces within a mode-separated shot gather. In this study, using synthetic models containing a dipping layer with a slope of 5, 10, 15, 20, or 30 degrees and a real-world example, we assess the ability of using high-resolution LRT to image and separate fundamental-mode Rayleigh waves from raw surface-wave data and accuracy of dispersion curves generated by a pair of consecutive traces within a mode-separated shot gather. Results of synthetic and real-world examples demonstrate that a dipping interface with a slope smaller than 15 degrees can be successfully mapped by separated fundamental waves using high-resolution LRT. ?? Birkh??user Verlag, Basel 2009.

Using high-resolution multibeam bathymetry to identify seafloor surface rupture along the Palos Verdes fault complex in offshore Southern California

USGS Publications Warehouse

Marlow, M. S.; Gardner, J.V.; Normark, W.R.

2000-01-01

Recently acquired high-resolution multibeam bathymetric data reveal several linear traces that are the surficial expressions of seafloor rupture of Holocene faults on the upper continental slope southeast of the Palos Verdes Peninsula. High-resolution multichannel and boomer seismic-reflection profiles show that these linear ruptures are the surficial expressions of Holocene faults with vertical to steep dips. The most prominent fault on the multibeam bathymetry is about 10 km to the west of the mapped trace of the Palos Verdes fault and extends for at least 14 km between the shelf edge and the base of the continental slope. This fault is informally called the Avalon Knoll fault for the nearby geographic feature of that name. Seismic-reflection profiles show that the Avalon Knoll fault is part of a northwest-trending complex of faults and anticlinal uplifts that are evident as scarps and bathymetric highs on the multibeam bathymetry. This fault complex may extend onshore and contribute to the missing balance of Quaternary uplift determined for the Palos Verdes Hills and not accounted for by vertical uplift along the onshore Palos Verdes fault. We investigate the extent of the newly located offshore Avalon Knoll fault and use this mapped fault length to estimate likely minimum magnitudes for events along this fault.

High-resolution Interferometer Sounder (HIS), phase 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1988-01-01

The High-resolution Interferometer Sounder (HIS) was successfully built, tested, and flight proven on the NASA U-2/ER-2 high altitude aircraft. The HIS demonstration has shown that, by using the technology of Fourier Transform Spectroscopy (FTS), it is possible to measure the spectrum of upwelling infrared radiance needed for temperature and humidity sounding with high spectral resolution and high radiometric precision. By resolving individual carbon dioxide lines, the retrieved temperature profiles have vertical resolutions of 1 to 2 km and RMS errors less than 1 C, about 2 to 4 times better than possible with current sounders. Implementing this capability on satellite sounders will greatly enhance the dynamical information content of temperature measurements from space. The aircraft model HIS is now a resource which should be used to support field experiments in mesoscale meteorology, to monitor trace gas concentrations and to better understand their effects on climate, to monitor the surface radiation budget and the radiative effects of clouds, and to collect data for research into retrieval techniques, especially under partially cloudy conditions.

IDENTIFICATION OF UNANTICIPATED COMPOUNDS BY HIGH RESOLUTION MASS SPECTROMETRY

EPA Science Inventory

Localized outbreaks of acute illness could result from deliberate addition of unanticipated
compounds into water, air, or food. Cancer clusters resulting from long-term exposure to trace-
levels of compounds are more difficult to detect, but can be revealed by epidemiolog...

Open Path and Solar Sourced Atmospheric Spectra are Analyzed Yielding Concentration Profiles and Temporal Variation Results

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hager, John; Steill, Jeff; Compton, Robert

2004-11-01

A high-resolution FTIR Bomem DA8 spectrometer has been installed at the University of Tennessee and has been successfully coupled with a suntracker and open path optics. Solar absorption spectra were recorded on 75 days in the last 18 months over a large spectral range. The high-resolution spectra provide information on the vertical concentration profiles of trace gases in the atmosphere. The HITRAN data base was used along with SFIT2 in order to retrieve concentration profiles of different trace gases. Many atmospheric constituents are open to this analysis. Tropospheric Ozone in the Knoxville area is rated as the worst in the nation by the American Lung Association. Sunlight, pollutants and hot weather cause ground-level ozone to form in harmful concentrations in the air. Seasonal and daily trends of ozone show correlation with other sources such as the EPA, and recent efforts to correlate solar spectra with open-path spectra will be discussed.

Mapping 3D fault geometry in earthquakes using high-resolution topography: Examples from the 2010 El Mayor-Cucapah (Mexico) and 2013 Balochistan (Pakistan) earthquakes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Yu; Walker, Richard T.; Elliott, John R.; Parsons, Barry

2016-04-01

Fault dips are usually measured from outcrops in the field or inferred through geodetic or seismological modeling. Here we apply the classic structural geology approach of calculating dip from a fault's 3-D surface trace using recent, high-resolution topography. A test study applied to the 2010 El Mayor-Cucapah earthquake shows very good agreement between our results and those previously determined from field measurements. To obtain a reliable estimate, a fault segment ≥120 m long with a topographic variation ≥15 m is suggested. We then applied this method to the 2013 Balochistan earthquake, getting dips similar to previous estimates. Our dip estimates show a switch from north to south dipping at the southern end of the main trace, which appears to be a response to local extension within a stepover. We suggest that this previously unidentified geometrical complexity may act as the endpoint of earthquake ruptures for the southern end of the Hoshab fault.

Measurements of HNO3, SO2 High Resolution Aerosol SO4 (sup 2-), and Selected Aerosol Species Aboard the NASA DC-8 Aircraft: During the Transport and Chemical Evolution Over the Pacific Airborne Mission (TRACE-P)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Talbot, Robert W.; Dibb, Jack E.

2004-01-01

The UNH investigation during TRACE-P provided measurements of selected acidic gases and aerosol species aboard the NASA DC-8 research aircraft. Our investigation focused on measuring HNO3, SO2, and fine (less than 2 microns) aerosol SO4(sup 2-) with two minute time resolution in near-real-time. We also quantified mixing ratios of aerosol ionic species, and aerosol (210)Pb and (7)Be collected onto bulk filters at better than 10 minute resolution. This suite of measurements contributed extensively to achieving the principal objectives of TRACE-P. In the context of the full data set collected by experimental teams on the DC-8, our observations provide a solid basis for assessing decadal changes in the chemical composition and source strength of Asian continental outflow. This region of the Pacific should be impacted profoundly by Asian emissions at this time with significant degradation of air quality over the next few decades. Atmospheric measurements in the western Pacific region will provide a valuable time series to help quantify the impact of Asian anthropogenic activities. Our data also provide important insight into the chemical and physical processes transforming Asian outflow during transport over the Pacific, particularly uptake and reactions of soluble gases on aerosol particles. In addition, the TRACE-P data set provide strong constraints for assessing and improving the chemical fields simulated by chemical transport models.

Massively parallel sensing of trace molecules and their isotopologues with broadband subharmonic mid-infrared frequency combs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Muraviev, A. V.; Smolski, V. O.; Loparo, Z. E.; Vodopyanov, K. L.

2018-04-01

Mid-infrared spectroscopy offers supreme sensitivity for the detection of trace gases, solids and liquids based on tell-tale vibrational bands specific to this spectral region. Here, we present a new platform for mid-infrared dual-comb Fourier-transform spectroscopy based on a pair of ultra-broadband subharmonic optical parametric oscillators pumped by two phase-locked thulium-fibre combs. Our system provides fast (7 ms for a single interferogram), moving-parts-free, simultaneous acquisition of 350,000 spectral data points, spaced by a 115 MHz intermodal interval over the 3.1-5.5 µm spectral range. Parallel detection of 22 trace molecular species in a gas mixture, including isotopologues containing isotopes such as 13C, 18O, 17O, 15N, 34S, 33S and deuterium, with part-per-billion sensitivity and sub-Doppler resolution is demonstrated. The technique also features absolute optical frequency referencing to an atomic clock, a high degree of mutual coherence between the two mid-infrared combs with a relative comb-tooth linewidth of 25 mHz, coherent averaging and feasibility for kilohertz-scale spectral resolution.

High Resolution 4.7 Micron Keck/NIRSPEC Spectra of Protostars. 1; Ices and Infalling Gas in the Disk of L1489 IRS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Boogert, A. C. A.; Hogerheijde, M. R.; Blake, G. A.

2001-01-01

We explore the infrared M band (4.7 micron) spectrum of the class I protostar L1489 IRS in the Taurus Molecular Cloud. This is the highest resolution wide coverage spectrum at this wavelength of a low mass protostar observed to date (R =25,000; (Delta)v =12 km s(exp -1). A large number of narrow absorption lines of gas phase (12)CO, (13)CO, and C(sup 18)O are detected, as well as a prominent band of solid (12)CO. The gas phase (12)CO lines have red shifted absorption wings (up to 100 km s(exp -1)), which likely originate from warm disk material falling toward the central object. Both the isotopes and the extent of the (12)CO line wings are successfully fitted with a contracting disk model of this evolutionary transitional object. This shows that the inward motions seen in millimeter wave emission lines continue to within approx. 0.1 AU from the star. The amount of high velocity infalling gas is however overestimated by this model, suggesting that only part of the disk is infalling, e.g. a hot surface layer or hot gas in magnetic field tubes. The colder parts of the disk are traced by the prominent CO ice band. The band profile results from CO in 'polar' ices (CO mixed with H2O), and CO in 'apolar' ices. At the high spectral resolution, the 'apolar' component is, for the first time, resolved into two distinct components, likely due to pure CO and CO mixed with CO2, O2 and/or N2. The ices have probably experienced thermal processing in the upper disk layer traced by our pencil absorption beam: much of the volatile 'apolar' ices has evaporated, the depletion factor of CO onto grains is remarkably low (approx. 7%), and the CO2 traced in the CO band profile was possibly formed energetically. This study shows that high spectral resolution 4.7 micron observations provide important and unique information on the dynamics and structure of protostellar disks and the origin and evolution of ices in these disks.

Measurement of stratospheric trace constituent distributions from balloon-borne far infrared observations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Abbas, M. M.; Guo, J.; Carli, B.; Mencaraglia, F.; Bonetti, A.

1987-01-01

FIR limb thermal emission spectra obtained from balloon-borne measurements made as a part of the Balloon Intercomparison Campaign (BIC) have been analyzed for retrieval of stratospheric trace-constituent distributions. The measurements were made with a high-resolution Michelson interferometer and covered the 15-180/cm spectral range with an unapodized spectral resolution of 0.0033/cm. The retrieved vertical profiles of O3, H2O, HDO, HCN, CO, and isotopes of O3 are presented. The results are compared with the BIC measurements for O3 and H2O made from the same balloon gondola and with other published data. A comparison of the simultaneously retrieved profiles for several gases with the published data shows good agreement and indicates the validity of the FIR data and retrieval techniques and the accuracy of the inferred profiles.

Sensitive method to monitor trace quantities of benzanthrone in workers of dyestuff industries

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

Joshi, A.; Khanna, S.K.; Singh, G.B.

1986-03-01

Dyestuff workers coming in contact with benzanthrone (an intermediate used for the synthesis of a variety of dyes) develop skin lesions, gastritis, liver malfunctions, and sexual disturbances. A highly sensitive fluorometric method to monitor trace quantities of benzanthrone in urine, serum, and biological tissues for experimental studies, has been developed. Coupled with simple extraction and resolution, optimum fluorescence is obtained in an equal mixture of chloroform:methanol, detecting as low as 2 ng benzanthrone. This method is approximately 250 times more sensitive than currently available colorimetric assay.

Core Genome Multilocus Sequence Typing Scheme for High-Resolution Typing of Enterococcus faecium

PubMed Central

de Been, Mark; Pinholt, Mette; Top, Janetta; Bletz, Stefan; van Schaik, Willem; Brouwer, Ellen; Rogers, Malbert; Kraat, Yvette; Bonten, Marc; Corander, Jukka; Westh, Henrik; Harmsen, Dag

2015-01-01

Enterococcus faecium, a common inhabitant of the human gut, has emerged in the last 2 decades as an important multidrug-resistant nosocomial pathogen. Since the start of the 21st century, multilocus sequence typing (MLST) has been used to study the molecular epidemiology of E. faecium. However, due to the use of a small number of genes, the resolution of MLST is limited. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) now allows for high-resolution tracing of outbreaks, but current WGS-based approaches lack standardization, rendering them less suitable for interlaboratory prospective surveillance. To overcome this limitation, we developed a core genome MLST (cgMLST) scheme for E. faecium. cgMLST transfers genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) diversity into a standardized and portable allele numbering system that is far less computationally intensive than SNP-based analysis of WGS data. The E. faecium cgMLST scheme was built using 40 genome sequences that represented the diversity of the species. The scheme consists of 1,423 cgMLST target genes. To test the performance of the scheme, we performed WGS analysis of 103 outbreak isolates from five different hospitals in the Netherlands, Denmark, and Germany. The cgMLST scheme performed well in distinguishing between epidemiologically related and unrelated isolates, even between those that had the same sequence type (ST), which denotes the higher discriminatory power of this cgMLST scheme over that of conventional MLST. We also show that in terms of resolution, the performance of the E. faecium cgMLST scheme is equivalent to that of an SNP-based approach. In conclusion, the cgMLST scheme developed in this study facilitates rapid, standardized, and high-resolution tracing of E. faecium outbreaks. PMID:26400782

Core Genome Multilocus Sequence Typing Scheme for High- Resolution Typing of Enterococcus faecium.

PubMed

de Been, Mark; Pinholt, Mette; Top, Janetta; Bletz, Stefan; Mellmann, Alexander; van Schaik, Willem; Brouwer, Ellen; Rogers, Malbert; Kraat, Yvette; Bonten, Marc; Corander, Jukka; Westh, Henrik; Harmsen, Dag; Willems, Rob J L

2015-12-01

Enterococcus faecium, a common inhabitant of the human gut, has emerged in the last 2 decades as an important multidrug-resistant nosocomial pathogen. Since the start of the 21st century, multilocus sequence typing (MLST) has been used to study the molecular epidemiology of E. faecium. However, due to the use of a small number of genes, the resolution of MLST is limited. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) now allows for high-resolution tracing of outbreaks, but current WGS-based approaches lack standardization, rendering them less suitable for interlaboratory prospective surveillance. To overcome this limitation, we developed a core genome MLST (cgMLST) scheme for E. faecium. cgMLST transfers genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphism(SNP) diversity into a standardized and portable allele numbering system that is far less computationally intensive than SNP-based analysis of WGS data. The E. faecium cgMLST scheme was built using 40 genome sequences that represented the diversity of the species. The scheme consists of 1,423 cgMLST target genes. To test the performance of the scheme, we performed WGS analysis of 103 outbreak isolates from five different hospitals in the Netherlands, Denmark, and Germany. The cgMLST scheme performed well in distinguishing between epidemiologically related and unrelated isolates, even between those that had the same sequence type (ST), which denotes the higher discriminatory power of this cgMLST scheme over that of conventional MLST. We also show that in terms of resolution, the performance of the E. faecium cgMLST scheme is equivalent to that of an SNP-based approach. In conclusion, the cgMLST scheme developed in this study facilitates rapid, standardized, and high-resolution tracing of E. faecium outbreaks.

IDENTIFICATION OF POLLUTANTS IN A MUNICIPAL WELL USING HIGH RESOLUTION MASS SPECTROMETRY

EPA Science Inventory

An elevated incidence of childhood cancer was observed near a contaminated site. Trace amounts of several isomeric compounds were detected by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) in a concentrated extract of municipal well water. No matching library mass spectra were foun...

Multivariate statistical analysis of the polyphenolic constituents in kiwifruit juices to trace fruit varieties and geographical origins.

PubMed

Guo, Jing; Yuan, Yahong; Dou, Pei; Yue, Tianli

2017-10-01

Fifty-one kiwifruit juice samples of seven kiwifruit varieties from five regions in China were analyzed to determine their polyphenols contents and to trace fruit varieties and geographical origins by multivariate statistical analysis. Twenty-one polyphenols belonging to four compound classes were determined by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with ultra-high-resolution TOF mass spectrometry. (-)-Epicatechin, (+)-catechin, procyanidin B1 and caffeic acid derivatives were the predominant phenolic compounds in the juices. Principal component analysis (PCA) allowed a clear separation of the juices according to kiwifruit varieties. Stepwise linear discriminant analysis (SLDA) yielded satisfactory categorization of samples, provided 100% success rate according to kiwifruit varieties and 92.2% success rate according to geographical origins. The result showed that polyphenolic profiles of kiwifruit juices contain enough information to trace fruit varieties and geographical origins. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Continuous wave external-cavity quantum cascade laser-based high-resolution cavity ring-down spectrometer for ultrasensitive trace gas detection.

PubMed

De, Anulekha; Banik, Gourab Dutta; Maity, Abhijit; Pal, Mithun; Pradhan, Manik

2016-05-01

A high-resolution cavity ring-down spectroscopic (CRDS) system based on a continuous wave (cw) mode-hop-free (MHF) external-cavity quantum cascade laser (EC-QCL) operating at λ∼5.2  μm has been developed for ultrasensitive detection of nitric oxide (NO). We report the performance of the high-resolution EC-QCL based cw-CRDS instrument by measuring the rotationally resolved Λ-doublet e and f components of the P(7.5) line in the fundamental band of NO at 1850.169  cm^-1 and 1850.179  cm^-1. A noise-equivalent absorption coefficient of 1.01×10^-9  cm^-1  Hz^-1/2 was achieved based on an empty cavity ring-down time of τ₀=5.6  μs and standard deviation of 0.11% with averaging of six ring-down time determinations. The CRDS sensor demonstrates the advantages of measuring parts per billion NO concentrations in N₂, as well as in human breath samples with ultrahigh sensitivity and specificity. The CRDS system could also be generalized to measure simultaneously many other trace molecular species within the broad tuning range of cw EC-QCL, as well as for studying the rotationally resolved hyperfine structures.

Measurement of HO2 and Other Trace Gases in the Stratosphere Using a High Resolution Far-Infrared Spectrometer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Traub, Wes; Chance, Kelly

2002-01-01

This report covers the time period 1 April 2001 to 31 December 2001. During this period we continued analyzing data from past flights, exploring issues such as radical partitioning, stratospheric transport, and molecular spectroscopy and further developed our beamsplitter technology.

Trace gas detection in hyperspectral imagery using the wavelet packet subspace

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Salvador, Mark A. Z.

This dissertation describes research into a new remote sensing method to detect trace gases in hyperspectral and ultra-spectral data. This new method is based on the wavelet packet transform. It attempts to improve both the computational tractability and the detection of trace gases in airborne and spaceborne spectral imagery. Atmospheric trace gas research supports various Earth science disciplines to include climatology, vulcanology, pollution monitoring, natural disasters, and intelligence and military applications. Hyperspectral and ultra-spectral data significantly increases the data glut of existing Earth science data sets. Spaceborne spectral data in particular significantly increases spectral resolution while performing daily global collections of the earth. Application of the wavelet packet transform to the spectral space of hyperspectral and ultra-spectral imagery data potentially improves remote sensing detection algorithms. It also facilities the parallelization of these methods for high performance computing. This research seeks two science goals, (1) developing a new spectral imagery detection algorithm, and (2) facilitating the parallelization of trace gas detection in spectral imagery data.

Improving resolution of crosswell seismic section based on time-frequency analysis

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

Luo, H.; Li, Y.

1994-12-31

According to signal theory, to improve resolution of seismic section is to extend high-frequency band of seismic signal. In cross-well section, sonic log can be regarded as a reliable source providing high-frequency information to the trace near the borehole. In such case, what to do is to introduce this high-frequency information into the whole section. However, neither traditional deconvolution algorithms nor some new inversion methods such as BCI (Broad Constraint Inversion) are satisfied because of high-frequency noise and nonuniqueness of inversion results respectively. To overcome their disadvantages, this paper presents a new algorithm based on Time-Frequency Analysis (TFA) technology whichmore » has been increasingly received much attention as an useful signal analysis too. Practical applications show that the new method is a stable scheme to improve resolution of cross-well seismic section greatly without decreasing Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR).« less

A High-Resolution Speleothem Record From Florida of Atmospheric Teleconnections Since 1,500 Years Ago

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Polk, J. S.; van Beynen, P.; Asmerom, Y.

2008-12-01

Understanding atmospheric teleconnections between tropical, subtropical, and higher-latitude regions of the North Atlantic Ocean is necessary to better evaluate the anthropogenic contribution to climate change. Here, we present a precisely dated, high- resolution speleothem record of stable isotopes and trace elements from Florida spanning the last 1,500 years. By using a multi-proxy approach, the different climatic influences were deconvolved, including the NAO, ENSO, PDO, and ITCZ, which all can affect our region. Further comparison using time-series analysis between our data and other high-resolution records covering this same period reveal differing influences of these teleconnections on geographic regions. Our record shows both the influence of changing rainfall above the cave and the influence of sea surface temperatures on atmospheric convection caused by atmospheric-oceanic variability over time.

Uncertainty of global summer precipitation in the CMIP5 models: a comparison between high-resolution and low-resolution models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Danqing; Yan, Peiwen; Zhu, Jian; Zhang, Yaocun; Kuang, Xueyuan; Cheng, Jing

2018-04-01

The uncertainty of global summer precipitation simulated by the 23 CMIP5 CGCMs and the possible impacts of model resolutions are investigated in this study. Large uncertainties exist over the tropical and subtropical regions, which can be mainly attributed to convective precipitation simulation. High-resolution models (HRMs) and low-resolution models (LRMs) are further investigated to demonstrate their different contributions to the uncertainties of the ensemble mean. It shows that the high-resolution model ensemble means (HMME) and low-resolution model ensemble mean (LMME) mitigate the biases between the MME and observation over most continents and oceans, respectively. The HMME simulates more precipitation than the LMME over most oceans, but less precipitation over some continents. The dominant precipitation category in the HRMs (LRMs) is the heavy precipitation (moderate precipitation) over the tropic regions. The combinations of convective and stratiform precipitation are also quite different: the HMME has much higher ratio of stratiform precipitation while the LMME has more convective precipitation. Finally, differences in precipitation between the HMME and LMME can be traced to their differences in the SST simulations via the local and remote air-sea interaction.

Trace Elements in Ovaries: Measurement and Physiology.

PubMed

Ceko, Melanie J; O'Leary, Sean; Harris, Hugh H; Hummitzsch, Katja; Rodgers, Raymond J

2016-04-01

Traditionally, research in the field of trace element biology and human and animal health has largely depended on epidemiological methods to demonstrate involvement in biological processes. These studies were typically followed by trace element supplementation trials or attempts at identification of the biochemical pathways involved. With the discovery of biological molecules that contain the trace elements, such as matrix metalloproteinases containing zinc (Zn), cytochrome P450 enzymes containing iron (Fe), and selenoproteins containing selenium (Se), much of the current research focuses on these molecules, and, hence, only indirectly on trace elements themselves. This review focuses largely on two synchrotron-based x-ray techniques: X-ray absorption spectroscopy and x-ray fluorescence imaging that can be used to identify the in situ speciation and distribution of trace elements in tissues, using our recent studies of bovine ovaries, where the distribution of Fe, Se, Zn, and bromine were determined. It also discusses the value of other techniques, such as inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, used to garner information about the concentrations and elemental state of the trace elements. These applications to measure trace elemental distributions in bovine ovaries at high resolutions provide new insights into possible roles for trace elements in the ovary. © 2016 by the Society for the Study of Reproduction, Inc.

High-resolution imaging of selenium in kidneys: a localized selenium pool associated with glutathione peroxidase 3

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

Malinouski, M.; Kehr, S.; Finney, L.

2012-04-17

Recent advances in quantitative methods and sensitive imaging techniques of trace elements provide opportunities to uncover and explain their biological roles. In particular, the distribution of selenium in tissues and cells under both physiological and pathological conditions remains unknown. In this work, we applied high-resolution synchrotron X-ray fluorescence microscopy (XFM) to map selenium distribution in mouse liver and kidney. Liver showed a uniform selenium distribution that was dependent on selenocysteine tRNA{sup [Ser]Sec} and dietary selenium. In contrast, kidney selenium had both uniformly distributed and highly localized components, the latter visualized as thin circular structures surrounding proximal tubules. Other parts ofmore » the kidney, such as glomeruli and distal tubules, only manifested the uniformly distributed selenium pattern that co-localized with sulfur. We found that proximal tubule selenium localized to the basement membrane. It was preserved in Selenoprotein P knockout mice, but was completely eliminated in glutathione peroxidase 3 (GPx3) knockout mice, indicating that this selenium represented GPx3. We further imaged kidneys of another model organism, the naked mole rat, which showed a diminished uniformly distributed selenium pool, but preserved the circular proximal tubule signal. We applied XFM to image selenium in mammalian tissues and identified a highly localized pool of this trace element at the basement membrane of kidneys that was associated with GPx3. XFM allowed us to define and explain the tissue topography of selenium in mammalian kidneys at submicron resolution.« less

CO2 lidar for measurements of trace gases and wind velocities

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hess, R. V.

1982-01-01

CO2 lidar systems technology and signal processing requirements relevant to measurement needs and sensitivity are discussed. Doppler processing is similar to microwave radar, with signal reception controlled by a computer capable of both direct and heterodyne operations. Trace gas concentrations have been obtained with the NASA DIAL system, and trace gas transport has been determined with Doppler lidar measurements for wind velocity and turbulence. High vertical resolution measurement of trace gases, wind velocity, and turbulence are most important in the planetary boundary layer and in regions between the PBL and the lower stratosphere. Shear measurements are critical for airport operational safety. A sensitivity analysis for heterodyne detection with the DIAL system and for short pulses using a Doppler lidar system is presented. The development of transient injection locking techniques, as well as frequency stability by reducing chirp and catalytic control of closed cycle CO2 laser chemistry, is described.

Higs-instrument: design and demonstration of a high performance gas concentration imager

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Verlaan, A. L.; Klop, W. A.; Visser, H.; van Brug, H.; Human, J.

2017-09-01

Climate change and environmental conditions are high on the political agenda of international governments. Laws and regulations are being setup all around the world to improve the air quality and to reduce the impact. The growth of a number of trace gasses, including CO2, Methane and NOx are especially interesting due to their environmental impact. The regulations made are being based on both models and measurements of the trend of those trace gases over the years. Now the regulations are in place also enforcement and therewith measurements become more and more important. Instruments enabling high spectral and spatial resolution as well as high accurate measurements of trace gases are required to deliver the necessary inputs. Nowadays those measurements are usually performed by space based spectrometers. The requirement for high spectral resolution and measurement accuracy significantly increases the size of the instruments. As a result the instrument and satellite becomes very expensive to develop and to launch. Specialized instruments with a small volume and the required performance will offer significant advantages in both cost and performance. Huib's Innovative Gas Sensor (HIGS, named after its inventor Huib Visser), currently being developed at TNO is an instrument that achieves exactly that. Designed to measure only a single gas concentration, opposed to deriving it from a spectrum, it achieves high performance within a small design volume. The instrument enables instantaneous imaging of the gas distribution of the selected gas. An instrument demonstrator has been developed for NO2 detection. Laboratory measurements proved the measurement technique to be successful. An on-sky measurement campaign is in preparation. This paper addresses both the instrument design as well as the demonstrated performances.

Rayleigh-wave mode separation by high-resolution linear radon transform

USGS Publications Warehouse

Luo, Y.; Xia, J.; Miller, R.D.; Xu, Y.; Liu, J.; Liu, Q.

2009-01-01

Multichannel analysis of surface waves (MASW) method is an effective tool for obtaining vertical shear wave profiles from a single non-invasive measurement. One key step of the MASW method is generation of a dispersion image and extraction of a reliable dispersion curve from raw multichannel shot records. Because different Rayleigh-wave modes normally interfere with each other in the time and space domain, it is necessary to perform mode separation and reconstruction to increase the accuracy of phase velocities determined from a dispersion image. In this paper, we demonstrate the effectiveness of high-resolution linear Radon transform (LRT) as a means of separating and reconstructing multimode, dispersive Rayleigh-wave energy. We first introduce high-resolution LRT methods and Rayleigh-wave mode separation using high-resolution LRT. Next, we use synthetic data and a real-world example to demonstrate the effectiveness of Rayleigh-wave mode separation using high-resolution LRT. Our synthetic and real-world results demonstrate that (1) high-resolution LRT successfully separates and reconstructs multimode dispersive Rayleigh-wave energy with high resolution allowing the multimode energy to be more accurately determined. The horizontal resolution of the Rayleigh-wave method can be increased by extraction of dispersion curves from a pair of traces in the mode-separated shot gather and (2) multimode separation and reconstruction expand the usable frequency range of higher mode dispersive energy, which increases the depth of investigation and provides a means for accurately determining cut-off frequencies. ?? 2009 The Authors Journal compilation ?? 2009 RAS.

Broadband high-resolution multi-species CARS in gas-filled hollow-core photonic crystal fiber.

PubMed

Trabold, Barbara M; Hupfer, Robert J R; Abdolvand, Amir; St J Russell, Philip

2017-09-01

We report the use of coherent anti-Stokes Raman spectroscopy (CARS) in gas-filled hollow-core photonic crystal fiber (HC-PCF) for trace gas detection. The long optical path-lengths yield a 60 dB increase in the signal level compared with free-space arrangements. This enables a relatively weak supercontinuum (SC) to be used as Stokes seed, along with a ns pump pulse, paving the way for broadband (>4000  cm -1 ) single-shot CARS with an unprecedented resolution of ∼100  MHz. A kagomé-style HC-PCF provides broadband guidance, and, by operating close to the pressure-tunable zero dispersion wavelength, we can ensure simultaneous phase-matching of all gas species. We demonstrate simultaneous measurement of the concentrations of multiple trace gases in a gas sample introduced into the core of the HC-PCF.

High resolution fate map of the zebrafish diencephalon.

PubMed

Russek-Blum, Niva; Nabel-Rosen, Helit; Levkowitz, Gil

2009-07-01

The diencephalon acts as an interactive site between the sensory, central, and endocrine systems and is one of the most elaborate structures in the vertebrate brain. To better understand the embryonic development and morphogenesis of the diencephalon, we developed an improved photoactivation (uncaging)-based lineage tracing strategy. To determine the exact position of a given diencephalic progenitor domain, we used a transgenic line driving green fluorescent protein (GFP) in cells expressing the proneural protein, Neurogenin1 (Neurog1), which was used as a visible neural plate landmark. This approach facilitated precise labeling of defined groups of cells in the prospective diencephalon of the zebrafish neural plate. In this manner, we labeled multiple overlapping areas of the diencephalon, thereby ensuring both accuracy and reproducibility of our lineage tracing regardless of the dynamic changes of the developing neural plate. We present a fate map of the zebrafish diencephalon at a higher spatial resolution than previously described. (c) 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Siderophile Element Profile Measurements in Iron Meteorites Using Laser Ablation ICP-MS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Watson, H. C.; Watson, E. B.; McDonough, W. F.

2005-01-01

Understanding the behaviour of siderophile elements during cooling of iron meteorites can lead to insight into the general thermal histories of the meteorites as well as their respective parent bodies. Traditionally trace element analyses in meteorites have been done using techniques that only measure the average concentration in each phase. With these methods, all of the spatial information with respect to the distribution of an element within one phase is lost. Measuring concentration profiles of trace elements in meteorites is now possible, with the advent of high-resolution analytical techniques such as laser ablation, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) with spatial resolution <20 microns. [e.g. 1,2] and secondary ion mass spectrometry [3]. These profiles can give more insight into both the partitioning and diffusive behavior of siderophile elements in metal systems relevant to iron meteorites, as well as parent body cooling rates.

Chemical speciation using high energy resolution PIXE spectroscopy in the tender X-ray range

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kavčič, Matjaž; Petric, Marko; Vogel-Mikuš, Katarina

2018-02-01

High energy resolution X-ray emission spectroscopy employing wavelength dispersive (WDS) crystal spectrometers can provide energy resolution on the level of core-hole lifetime broadening of the characteristic emission lines. While crystal spectrometers have been traditionally used in combination with electron excitation for major and minor element analysis, they have been rarely considered in proton induced X-ray emission (PIXE) trace element analysis mainly due to low detection efficiency. Compared to the simplest flat crystal WDS spectrometer the efficiency can be improved by employing cylindrically or even spherically curved crystals in combination with position sensitive X-ray detectors. When such spectrometer is coupled to MeV proton excitation, chemical bonding effects are revealed in the high energy resolution spectra yielding opportunity to extend the analytical capabilities of PIXE technique also towards chemical state analysis. In this contribution we will focus on the high energy resolution PIXE (HR-PIXE) spectroscopy in the tender X-ray range performed in our laboratory with our home-built tender X-ray emission spectrometer. Some general properties of high energy resolution PIXE spectroscopy in the tender X-ray range are presented followed by an example of sulfur speciation in biological tissue illustrating the capabilities as well as limitations of HR-PIXE method used for chemical speciation in the tender X-ray range.

High resolution esophageal manometry--the switch from "intuitive" visual interpretation to Chicago classification.

PubMed

Srinivas, M; Balakumaran, T A; Palaniappan, S; Srinivasan, Vijaya; Batcha, M; Venkataraman, Jayanthi

2014-03-01

High resolution esophageal manometry (HREM) has been interpreted all along by visual interpretation of color plots until the recent introduction of Chicago classification which categorises HREM using objective measurements. It compares HREM diagnosis of esophageal motor disorders by visual interpretation and Chicago classification. Using software Trace 1.2v, 77 consecutive tracings diagnosed by visual interpretation were re-analyzed by Chicago classification and findings compared for concordance between the two systems of interpretation. Kappa agreement rate between the two observations was determined. There were 57 males (74 %) and cohort median age was 41 years (range: 14-83 years). Majority of the referrals were for gastroesophageal reflux disease, dysphagia and achalasia. By "intuitive" visual interpretation, the tracing were reported as normal in 45 (58.4 %), achalasia 14 (18.2 %), ineffective esophageal motility 3 (3.9 %), nutcracker esophagus 11 (14.3 %) and nonspecific motility changes 4 (5.2 %). By Chicago classification, there was 100 % agreement (Kappa 1) for achalasia (type 1: 9; type 2: 5) and ineffective esophageal motility ("failed peristalsis" on visual interpretation). Normal esophageal motility, nutcracker esophagus and nonspecific motility disorder on visual interpretation were reclassified as rapid contraction and esophagogastric junction (EGJ) outflow obstruction by Chicago classification. Chicago classification identified distinct clinical phenotypes including EGJ outflow obstruction not identified by visual interpretation. A significant number of unclassified HREM by visual interpretation were also classified by it.

Infrared near-field spectroscopy of trace explosives using an external cavity quantum cascade laser.

PubMed

Craig, Ian M; Taubman, Matthew S; Lea, A Scott; Phillips, Mark C; Josberger, Erik E; Raschke, Markus B

2013-12-16

Utilizing a broadly-tunable external cavity quantum cascade laser for scattering-type scanning near-field optical microscopy (s-SNOM), we measure infrared spectra of particles of explosives by probing characteristic nitro-group resonances in the 7.1-7.9 µm wavelength range. Measurements are presented with spectral resolution of 0.25 cm(-1), spatial resolution of 25 nm, sensitivity better than 100 attomoles, and at a rapid acquisition time of 90 s per spectrum. We demonstrate high reproducibility of the acquired s-SNOM spectra with very high signal-to-noise ratios and relative noise of <0.02 in self-homodyne detection.

Application of spatially resolved high resolution crystal spectrometry to inertial confinement fusion plasmas.

PubMed

Hill, K W; Bitter, M; Delgado-Aparacio, L; Pablant, N A; Beiersdorfer, P; Schneider, M; Widmann, K; Sanchez del Rio, M; Zhang, L

2012-10-01

High resolution (λ∕Δλ ∼ 10 000) 1D imaging x-ray spectroscopy using a spherically bent crystal and a 2D hybrid pixel array detector is used world wide for Doppler measurements of ion-temperature and plasma flow-velocity profiles in magnetic confinement fusion plasmas. Meter sized plasmas are diagnosed with cm spatial resolution and 10 ms time resolution. This concept can also be used as a diagnostic of small sources, such as inertial confinement fusion plasmas and targets on x-ray light source beam lines, with spatial resolution of micrometers, as demonstrated by laboratory experiments using a 250-μm (55)Fe source, and by ray-tracing calculations. Throughput calculations agree with measurements, and predict detector counts in the range 10(-8)-10(-6) times source x-rays, depending on crystal reflectivity and spectrometer geometry. Results of the lab demonstrations, application of the technique to the National Ignition Facility (NIF), and predictions of performance on NIF will be presented.

Multifrequency Ultra-High Resolution Miniature Scanning Microscope Using Microchannel And Solid-State Sensor Technologies And Method For Scanning Samples

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wang, Yu (Inventor)

2006-01-01

A miniature, ultra-high resolution, and color scanning microscope using microchannel and solid-state technology that does not require focus adjustment. One embodiment includes a source of collimated radiant energy for illuminating a sample, a plurality of narrow angle filters comprising a microchannel structure to permit the passage of only unscattered radiant energy through the microchannels with some portion of the radiant energy entering the microchannels from the sample, a solid-state sensor array attached to the microchannel structure, the microchannels being aligned with an element of the solid-state sensor array, that portion of the radiant energy entering the microchannels parallel to the microchannel walls travels to the sensor element generating an electrical signal from which an image is reconstructed by an external device, and a moving element for movement of the microchannel structure relative to the sample. Discloses a method for scanning samples whereby the sensor array elements trace parallel paths that are arbitrarily close to the parallel paths traced by other elements of the array.

The Colour and Stereo Surface Imaging System (CaSSIS) for the ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter

USGS Publications Warehouse

Thomas, N.; Cremonese, G.; Ziethe, R.; Gerber, M.; Brändli, M.; Bruno, G.; Erismann, M.; Gambicorti, L.; Gerber, T.; Ghose, K.; Gruber, M.; Gubler, P.; Mischler, H.; Jost, J.; Piazza, D.; Pommerol, A.; Rieder, M.; Roloff, V.; Servonet, A.; Trottmann, W.; Uthaicharoenpong, T.; Zimmermann, C.; Vernani, D.; Johnson, M.; Pelò, E.; Weigel, T.; Viertl, J.; De Roux, N.; Lochmatter, P.; Sutter, G.; Casciello, A.; Hausner, T.; Ficai Veltroni, I.; Da Deppo, V.; Orleanski, P.; Nowosielski, W.; Zawistowski, T.; Szalai, S.; Sodor, B.; Tulyakov, S.; Troznai, G.; Banaskiewicz, M.; Bridges, J.C.; Byrne, S.; Debei, S.; El-Maarry, M. R.; Hauber, E.; Hansen, C.J.; Ivanov, A.; Keszthelyil, L.; Kirk, Randolph L.; Kuzmin, R.; Mangold, N.; Marinangeli, L.; Markiewicz, W. J.; Massironi, M.; McEwen, A.S.; Okubo, Chris H.; Tornabene, L.L.; Wajer, P.; Wray, J.J.

2017-01-01

The Colour and Stereo Surface Imaging System (CaSSIS) is the main imaging system onboard the European Space Agency’s ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter (TGO) which was launched on 14 March 2016. CaSSIS is intended to acquire moderately high resolution (4.6 m/pixel) targeted images of Mars at a rate of 10–20 images per day from a roughly circular orbit 400 km above the surface. Each image can be acquired in up to four colours and stereo capability is foreseen by the use of a novel rotation mechanism. A typical product from one image acquisition will be a 9.5 km×∼45 km">9.5 km×∼45 km9.5 km×∼45 km swath in full colour and stereo in one over-flight of the target thereby reducing atmospheric influences inherent in stereo and colour products from previous high resolution imagers. This paper describes the instrument including several novel technical solutions required to achieve the scientific requirements.

Integration of airborne LiDAR data and voxel-based ray tracing to determine high-resolution solar radiation dynamics at the forest floor: implications for improving stand-scale distributed snowmelt models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Musselman, K. N.; Molotch, N. P.; Margulis, S. A.

2012-12-01

Forest architecture dictates sub-canopy solar irradiance and the resulting patterns can vary seasonally and over short spatial distances. These radiation dynamics are thought to have significant implications on snowmelt processes, regional hydrology, and remote sensing signatures. The variability calls into question many assumptions inherent in traditional canopy models (e.g. Beer's Law) when applied at high resolution (i.e. 1 m). We present a method of estimating solar canopy transmissivity using airborne LiDAR data. The canopy structure is represented in 3-D voxel space (i.e. a cubic discretization of a 3-D domain analogous to a pixel representation of a 2-D space). The solar direct beam canopy transmissivity (DBT) is estimated with a ray-tracing algorithm and the diffuse component is estimated from LiDAR-derived effective LAI. Results from one year at five-minute temporal and 1 m spatial resolutions are presented from Sequoia National Park. Compared to estimates from 28 hemispherical photos, the ray-tracing model estimated daily mean DBT with a 10% average error, while the errors from a Beer's-type DBT estimate exceeded 20%. Compared to the ray-tracing estimates, the Beer's-type transmissivity method was unable to resolve complex spatial patterns resulting from canopy gaps, individual tree canopies and boles, and steep variable terrain. The snowmelt model SNOWPACK was applied at locations of ultrasonic snow depth sensors. Two scenarios were tested; 1) a nominal case where canopy model parameters were obtained from hemispherical photographs, and 2) an explicit scenario where the model was modified to accept LiDAR-derived time-variant DBT. The bulk canopy treatment was generally unable to simulate the sub-canopy snowmelt dynamics observed at the depth sensor locations. The explicit treatment reduced error in the snow disappearance date by one week and both positive and negative melt-season SWE biases were reduced. The results highlight the utility of LiDAR canopy measurements and physically based snowmelt models to simulate spatially distributed stand- and slope-scale snowmelt dynamics at resolutions necessary to capture the inherent underlying variability.iDAR-derived solar direct beam canopy transmissivity computed as the daily average for March 1st and May 1st.

On the impact of large angle CMB polarization data on cosmological parameters

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

Lattanzi, Massimiliano; Mandolesi, Nazzareno; Natoli, Paolo

We study the impact of the large-angle CMB polarization datasets publicly released by the WMAP and Planck satellites on the estimation of cosmological parameters of the ΛCDM model. To complement large-angle polarization, we consider the high resolution (or 'high-ℓ') CMB datasets from either WMAP or Planck as well as CMB lensing as traced by Planck 's measured four point correlation function. In the case of WMAP, we compute the large-angle polarization likelihood starting over from low resolution frequency maps and their covariance matrices, and perform our own foreground mitigation technique, which includes as a possible alternative Planck 353 GHz datamore » to trace polarized dust. We find that the latter choice induces a downward shift in the optical depth τ, roughly of order 2σ, robust to the choice of the complementary high resolution dataset. When the Planck 353 GHz is consistently used to minimize polarized dust emission, WMAP and Planck 70 GHz large-angle polarization data are in remarkable agreement: by combining them we find τ = 0.066 {sup +0.012}{sub −0.013}, again very stable against the particular choice for high-ℓ data. We find that the amplitude of primordial fluctuations A {sub s} , notoriously degenerate with τ, is the parameter second most affected by the assumptions on polarized dust removal, but the other parameters are also affected, typically between 0.5 and 1σ. In particular, cleaning dust with Planck 's 353 GHz data imposes a 1σ downward shift in the value of the Hubble constant H {sub 0}, significantly contributing to the tension reported between CMB based and direct measurements of the present expansion rate. On the other hand, we find that the appearance of the so-called low ℓ anomaly, a well-known tension between the high- and low-resolution CMB anisotropy amplitude, is not significantly affected by the details of large-angle polarization, or by the particular high-ℓ dataset employed.« less

Detection of latent fingerprints using high-resolution 3D confocal microscopy in non-planar acquisition scenarios

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kirst, Stefan; Vielhauer, Claus

2015-03-01

In digitized forensics the support of investigators in any manner is one of the main goals. Using conservative lifting methods, the detection of traces is done manually. For non-destructive contactless methods, the necessity for detecting traces is obvious for further biometric analysis. High resolutional 3D confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) grants the possibility for a detection by segmentation approach with improved detection results. Optimal scan results with CLSM are achieved on surfaces orthogonal to the sensor, which is not always possible due to environmental circumstances or the surface's shape. This introduces additional noise, outliers and a lack of contrast, making a detection of traces even harder. Prior work showed the possibility of determining angle-independent classification models for the detection of latent fingerprints (LFP). Enhancing this approach, we introduce a larger feature space containing a variety of statistical-, roughness-, color-, edge-directivity-, histogram-, Gabor-, gradient- and Tamura features based on raw data and gray-level co-occurrence matrices (GLCM) using high resolutional data. Our test set consists of eight different surfaces for the detection of LFP in four different acquisition angles with a total of 1920 single scans. For each surface and angles in steps of 10, we capture samples from five donors to introduce variance by a variety of sweat compositions and application influences such as pressure or differences in ridge thickness. By analyzing the present test set with our approach, we intend to determine angle- and substrate-dependent classification models to determine optimal surface specific acquisition setups and also classification models for a general detection purpose for both, angles and substrates. The results on overall models with classification rates up to 75.15% (kappa 0.50) already show a positive tendency regarding the usability of the proposed methods for LFP detection on varying surfaces in non-planar scenarios.

Direct identification of trace metals in fine and ultrafine particles in the Detroit urban atmosphere.

PubMed

Utsunomiya, Satoshi; Jensen, Keld A; Keeler, Gerald J; Ewing, Rodney C

2004-04-15

Exposure to airborne particulates containing low concentrations of heavy metals, such as Pb, As, and Se, may have serious health effects. However, little is known about the speciation and particle size of these airborne metals. Fine- and ultrafine particles with heavy metals in aerosol samples from the Detroit urban area, Michigan, were examined in detail to investigate metal concentrations and speciation. The characterization of individual particles was completed using high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM) combined with conventional high-resolution TEM techniques. The trace elements, Pb, As, La, Ce, Sr, Zn, Cr, Se, Sn, Y, Zr, Au, and Ag, were detected, and the elemental distributions were mapped in situ atthe nanoscale. The crystal structures of the particles containing Pb, Sr, Zn, and Au were determined from their electron diffraction patterns. Based on the characterization of the representative trace element particles, the potential health effects are discussed. Most of the trace element particles detected in this study were within a range of 0.01-1.0 microm in size, which has the longest atmospheric residence time (approximately 100 days). Increased chemical reactivity owing to the size of nanoparticles may be expected for most of the trace metal particles observed.

Comb-referenced ultra-high sensitivity spectroscopic molecular detection by compact non-linear sources

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cancio, P.; Gagliardi, G.; Galli, I.; Giusfredi, G.; Maddaloni, P.; Malara, P.; Mazzotti, D.; De Natale, P.

2017-11-01

We present a new generation of compact and rugged mid-infrared (MIR) difference-frequency coherent radiation sources referenced to fiber-based optical frequency comb synthesizers (OFCSs). By coupling the MIR radiation to high-finesse optical cavities, high-resolution and high-sensitivity spectroscopy is demonstrated for CH4 and CO2 around 3.3 and 4.5 μm respectively. Finally, the most effective detection schemes for space-craft trace-gas monitoring applications are singled out.

High-Resolution Imaging of Selenium in Kidneys: A Localized Selenium Pool Associated with Glutathione Peroxidase 3

PubMed Central

Malinouski, Mikalai; Kehr, Sebastian; Finney, Lydia; Vogt, Stefan; Carlson, Bradley A.; Seravalli, Javier; Jin, Richard; Handy, Diane E.; Park, Thomas J.; Loscalzo, Joseph; Hatfield, Dolph L.

2012-01-01

Abstract Aim: Recent advances in quantitative methods and sensitive imaging techniques of trace elements provide opportunities to uncover and explain their biological roles. In particular, the distribution of selenium in tissues and cells under both physiological and pathological conditions remains unknown. In this work, we applied high-resolution synchrotron X-ray fluorescence microscopy (XFM) to map selenium distribution in mouse liver and kidney. Results: Liver showed a uniform selenium distribution that was dependent on selenocysteine tRNA[Ser]Sec and dietary selenium. In contrast, kidney selenium had both uniformly distributed and highly localized components, the latter visualized as thin circular structures surrounding proximal tubules. Other parts of the kidney, such as glomeruli and distal tubules, only manifested the uniformly distributed selenium pattern that co-localized with sulfur. We found that proximal tubule selenium localized to the basement membrane. It was preserved in Selenoprotein P knockout mice, but was completely eliminated in glutathione peroxidase 3 (GPx3) knockout mice, indicating that this selenium represented GPx3. We further imaged kidneys of another model organism, the naked mole rat, which showed a diminished uniformly distributed selenium pool, but preserved the circular proximal tubule signal. Innovation: We applied XFM to image selenium in mammalian tissues and identified a highly localized pool of this trace element at the basement membrane of kidneys that was associated with GPx3. Conclusion: XFM allowed us to define and explain the tissue topography of selenium in mammalian kidneys at submicron resolution. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 16, 185–192. PMID:21854231

Active Faulting, Earthquakes and Geomorphological Changes from Archaeoseismic Data and High-Resolution Topography: Effects on the Urban Evolution of the Roman Town of Sybaris, Ionian Sea (Southern Italy).

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alfonsi, L.; Brunori, C. A.; Cinti, F. R.

2014-12-01

The Sybaris town was founded by the Greeks in 720 B.C and its life went on up to the late Roman time (VI-VII century A.D.). The town was located within the Sibari Plain near the Crati River mouth (Ionian northern Calabria, southern Italy). Sybaris occurs in area repeatedly affected by natural damaging phenomena, as frequent flooding, high local subsidence, marine storms, and earthquakes. The 2700 year long record of history of Sybaris stores the traces of these natural events and their influence on the human ancient environment through time. Among the natural disasters, we recognize two Roman age earthquakes striking the town. We isolate the damaging of these seismic events, set their time of occurrence, and map a shear zone crossing the site. These results were obtained through i) survey of coseismic features on the ruins, ii) geoarchaeological stratigraphy analysis, and TL and C14 dating, iii) analysis of high-resolution topographic data (1m pixel LiDAR DEM). The Sybaris town showed a persistent resilience to the earthquakes, and following their occurrences the site was not abandoned but underwent remodeling of the urban topography. The interaction of the different approaches reveals the presence of a previously unknown fault crossing the archeological site, the Sybaris fault. The high-resolution topography allows the characterization of subtle geomorphological features and hydrological anomalies, tracing the fault extension, whose Holocene activity is controlling the local morphology and the present Crati river course.

High Resolution Numerical Simulations and Diagnostic Studies Atmospheric Transport During TRACE-A

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Krishnamurti, T. N.; Fuelberg, Henry

1995-01-01

The enclosed publications constitute our final report. These are publications completed in referred journals. The completed work includes: Meteorological conditions associated with vertical distributions of aerosols off the west coast of Africa. TRACE-A trajectory intercomparison 2. Isentropic and kinematic methods. Chemical characteristics of tropospheric air over the tropical South Atlantic Ocean: Relationship to trajectory history. Passive Tracer Transport Relevant to the TRACE-A Experiment. The meteorological environment of the tropospheric ozone maximum over the tropical south Atlantic Ocean. : Influence of a middle-latitude cyclone on tropospheric ozone distributions during a period of TRACE-A. All of this work provided the meteorological background for the Transport of Atmospheric Chemistry near the Equator (TRACE-A) project sponsored by Dr,, Joe McNeal of NASA. Our principal findings are that bio-mass burning sources from Africa and South America did contribute to the accumulation of tropospheric ozone over the tropical Atlantic Ocean. Other findings relate to circulations, advections of Ozone and other plausible sources for the TOMS based ozone maximum over the Atlantic Ocean.

Uses of the Space Shuttle in the NASA Applications Program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mcconnell, D. G.

1977-01-01

Examples are given of Shuttle and Spacelab payloads proposed in the NASA Applications Program. These range from processing of materials under near-zero gravity conditions to studies of microphysical processes occurring in clouds, and from high resolution Fourier interferometers for studying trace constituents in the atmosphere to complementary groups of sensors for viewing the earth.

Multivariate Formation Pressure Prediction with Seismic-derived Petrophysical Properties from Prestack AVO inversion and Poststack Seismic Motion Inversion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, H.; Gu, H.

2017-12-01

A novel multivariate seismic formation pressure prediction methodology is presented, which incorporates high-resolution seismic velocity data from prestack AVO inversion, and petrophysical data (porosity and shale volume) derived from poststack seismic motion inversion. In contrast to traditional seismic formation prediction methods, the proposed methodology is based on a multivariate pressure prediction model and utilizes a trace-by-trace multivariate regression analysis on seismic-derived petrophysical properties to calibrate model parameters in order to make accurate predictions with higher resolution in both vertical and lateral directions. With prestack time migration velocity as initial velocity model, an AVO inversion was first applied to prestack dataset to obtain high-resolution seismic velocity with higher frequency that is to be used as the velocity input for seismic pressure prediction, and the density dataset to calculate accurate Overburden Pressure (OBP). Seismic Motion Inversion (SMI) is an inversion technique based on Markov Chain Monte Carlo simulation. Both structural variability and similarity of seismic waveform are used to incorporate well log data to characterize the variability of the property to be obtained. In this research, porosity and shale volume are first interpreted on well logs, and then combined with poststack seismic data using SMI to build porosity and shale volume datasets for seismic pressure prediction. A multivariate effective stress model is used to convert velocity, porosity and shale volume datasets to effective stress. After a thorough study of the regional stratigraphic and sedimentary characteristics, a regional normally compacted interval model is built, and then the coefficients in the multivariate prediction model are determined in a trace-by-trace multivariate regression analysis on the petrophysical data. The coefficients are used to convert velocity, porosity and shale volume datasets to effective stress and then to calculate formation pressure with OBP. Application of the proposed methodology to a research area in East China Sea has proved that the method can bridge the gap between seismic and well log pressure prediction and give predicted pressure values close to pressure meassurements from well testing.

The investigation of Martian dune fields using very high resolution photogrammetric measurements and time series analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, J.; Park, M.; Baik, H. S.; Choi, Y.

2016-12-01

At the present time, arguments continue regarding the migration speeds of Martian dune fields and their correlation with atmospheric circulation. However, precisely measuring the spatial translation of Martian dunes has rarely conducted only a very few times Therefore, we developed a generic procedure to precisely measure the migration of dune fields with recently introduced 25-cm resolution High Resolution Imaging Science Experimen (HIRISE) employing a high-accuracy photogrammetric processor and sub-pixel image correlator. The processor was designed to trace estimated dune migration, albeit slight, over the Martian surface by 1) the introduction of very high resolution ortho images and stereo analysis based on hierarchical geodetic control for better initial point settings; 2) positioning error removal throughout the sensor model refinement with a non-rigorous bundle block adjustment, which makes possible the co-alignment of all images in a time series; and 3) improved sub-pixel co-registration algorithms using optical flow with a refinement stage conducted on a pyramidal grid processor and a blunder classifier. Moreover, volumetric changes of Martian dunes were additionally traced by means of stereo analysis and photoclinometry. The established algorithms have been tested using high-resolution HIRISE images over a large number of Martian dune fields covering whole Mars Global Dune Database. Migrations over well-known crater dune fields appeared to be almost static for the considerable temporal periods and were weakly correlated with wind directions estimated by the Mars Climate Database (Millour et al. 2015). Only over a few Martian dune fields, such as Kaiser crater, meaningful migration speeds (>1m/year) compared to phtotogrammetric error residual have been measured. Currently a technical improved processor to compensate error residual using time series observation is under developing and expected to produce the long term migration speed over Martian dune fields where constant HIRISE image acquisitions are available. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: The research leading to these results has received funding from the European Union's Seventh Framework Programme (FP7/2007-2013) under iMars grant agreement Nr. 607379.

230Th-U dating of surficial deposits using the ion microprobe (SHRIMP-RG): A microstratigraphic perspective

USGS Publications Warehouse

Maher, K.; Wooden, J.L.; Paces, J.B.; Miller, D.M.

2007-01-01

We used the sensitive high-resolution ion microprobe reverse-geometry (SHRIMP-RG) to date pedogenic opal using the 230Th-U system. Due to the high-spatial resolution of an ion microprobe (typically 30 ??m), regions of pure opal within a sample can be targeted and detrital material can be avoided. In addition, because the technique is non-destructive, the sample can be preserved for other types of analyses including electron microprobe or other stable isotope or trace element ion microprobe measurements. The technique is limited to material with U concentrations greater than ???50 ppm. However, the high spatial resolution, small sample requirements, and the ability to avoid detrital material make this technique a suitable technique for dating many Pleistocene deposits formed in semi-arid environments. To determine the versatility of the method, samples from several different deposits were analyzed, including silica-rich pebble coatings from pedogenic carbonate horizons, a siliceous sinter deposit, and opaline silica deposited as a spring mound. U concentrations for 30-??m-diameter spots ranged from 50 to 1000 ppm in these types of materials. The 230Th/232Th activity ratios also ranged from ???100 to 106, eliminating the need for detrital Th corrections that reduce the precision of traditional U-Th ages for many milligram- and larger-sized samples. In pedogenic material, layers of high-U opal (ca. 500 ppm) are commonly juxtaposed next to layers of calcite with much lower U concentrations (1-2 ppm). If these types of samples are not analyzed using a technique with the appropriate spatial resolution, the ages may be strongly biased towards the age of the opal. Comparison with standard TIMS (Thermal Ionization Mass Spectrometry) measurements from separate microdrilled samples suggests that although the analytical precision of the ion microprobe (SHRIMP-RG) measurements is less than TIMS, the high spatial resolution results in better accuracy in the age determination for finely layered or complex deposits. The ion microprobe approach also may be useful for pre-screening samples to determine the age and degree of post-depositional alteration, analyzing finely layered samples or samples with complex growth histories, and obtaining simultaneous measurements of trace elements.

Remote sensing of tropospheric constituents by OMI on the EOS Aura satellite

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bhartia, Pawan K.

2006-01-01

The Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) was launched on NASA's EOS Aura satellite in July 2004. This instrument was built in the Netherlands with collaboration with Finland. The science data products are being developed jointly by scientists from the three countries. OMI is the first instrument to combine the high spatial resolution daily global mapping capability of TOMS with high spectral resolution measurements necessary for retrieving a number of trace gases of relevance to atmospheric chemistry, using techniques pioneered by GOME. In this talk I will show what our planet looks like at UV wavelengths and what these data can tell us about the effects of human activities on global air quality and climate.

A search for biogenic trace gases in the atmosphere of Mars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Levine, Joel S.; Mckay, Christopher P.

1989-01-01

The detection of certain trace gases in the atmosphere of Mars may serve as a possible indicator of microbial life on the surface of Mars. Candidate biogenic gases include methane CH4, ammonia NH3, nitrous oxide N2O, and several reduced sulfur species. Chemical thermodynamic equilibrium and photochemical calculations preclude the presence of these gases in any measurable concentrations in the atmosphere of Mars in the absence of biogenic production. A search for these gases utilizing either high resolution (spectral and spatial) spectroscopy from a Mars orbiter, such as the Observer, and or in situ measurements from a Mars lander or rover, is proposed.

Primary studies of trace quantities of green vegetation in Mono Lake area using 1990 AVIRIS data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chen, Zhi-Kang; Elvidge, Chris D.; Groeneveld, David P.

1992-01-01

Our primary results in Jasper Ridge Biological Preserve indicate that high spectral resolution Airborne Visible/Infrared Imaging Spectrometer (AVIRIS) data may provide a substantial advantage in vegetation, based on the chlorophyll red edge feature from 700-780 nm. The chlorophyll red edge was detected for green vegetation cover as low as 4.8 percent. The objective of our studies in Mono Lake area is to continue the experiments performed in Jasper Ridge and to examine the persistence of red edge feature of trace quantities of green vegetation for different plant communities with non-uniform soil backgrounds.

High resolution geochemical proxy record of the last 600yr in a speleothem from the northwest Iberian Peninsula

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iglesias González, Miguel; Pisonero, Jorge; Cheng, Hai; Edwards, R. Lawrence; Stoll, Heather

2017-04-01

In meteorology and climatology, the instrumental period is the period where we have measured directly by instrumentation, different meteorological data along the surface which allow us to determinate the evolution of the climate during the last 150 years over the world. At the beginning, the density of this data were very low, so we have to wait until the last 75-100 years to have a good network in most of the parts of the surface. This time period is very small if we want to analyze the relationship between geochemical and instrumental variability in any speleothem. So a very high resolution data is needed to determinate the connection between both of them in the instrumental period, to try to determinate de evolution of climate in the last 600 years. Here we present a high resolution speleothem record from a cave located in the middle of the Cantabrian Mountains without any anthropologic influence and with no CO2 seasonal variability. This 600yr stalagmite, dated with U/Th method with a growth rate from 100 to 200 micrometers/yr calculated with Bchron model, provide us accurate information of the climate conditions near the cave. Trace elements are analyzed at 8 micrometers intervals by Laser Ablation ICP-MS which resolves even monthly resolution during the last 600 years with special attention with Sr, Mg, Al and Si. This data, without seasonal variability and with the presence of a river inside the cave, give us very valuable information about the extreme flood events inside the cave during the whole period, which is related with the precipitations and the snow fusion events outside the cave. We identify more extremely flood events during the Little Ice Age than in the last 100yr. As well, we have trace elements data with spatial resolution of 0.2mm analyzed with ICP-AES which allow us to compare the geochemical variability with both technics. We also analyze stable isotope d13C and d18O with a spatial resolution of 0.2mm, so we are able to identify variations and all possible correlations between them, trace elements and instrumental records from the different weather stations located near the cave. We use instrumental data, and the statistical correlation between our proxy and them, to calibrate and analyze the variability along the 600yr which provide us a lot of information about the climate variability. In spite of the significate global warming during the last 25 years, we have less variability during this period than along the transition between the Medieval Warm Period and the Little Ice Age. We also analyze this variability along the 600 years with wavelet analysis, with special attention in the instrumental period. With this mathematical method, we can identify several cycles both in trace elements and stable isotopes at special scales compatible with the decadal and multidecadal variability with a value similar to very important climate index like AMO.

Trace element abundance determinations by Synchrotron X Ray Fluorescence (SXRF) on returned comet nucleus mineral grains

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Flynn, G. J.; Sutton, S. R.

1989-01-01

Trace element analyses were performed on bulk cosmic dust particles by Proton Induced X Ray Emission (PIXE) and Synchrotron X Ray Fluorescence (SXRF). When present at or near chondritic abundances the trace elements K, Ti, Cr, Mn, Cu, Zn, Ga, Ge, Se, and Br are presently detectable by SXRF in particles of 20 micron diameter. Improvements to the SXRF analysis facility at the National Synchrotron Light Source presently underway should increase the range of detectable elements and permit the analysis of smaller samples. In addition the Advanced Photon Source will be commissioned at Argonne National Laboratory in 1995. This 7 to 8 GeV positron storage ring, specifically designed for high-energy undulator and wiggler insertion devices, will be an ideal source for an x ray microprobe with one micron spatial resolution and better than 100 ppb elemental sensitivity for most elements. Thus trace element analysis of individual micron-sized grains should be possible by the time of the comet nucleus sample return mission.

Community Radiative Transfer Model Applications - A Study of the Retrieval of Trace Gases in the Atmosphere from Cross-track Infrared Sounder (CrIS) Data of a Full-spectral Resolution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Q.; Nalli, N. R.; Tan, C.; Zhang, K.; Iturbide, F.; Wilson, M.; Zhou, L.

2015-12-01

The Community Radiative Transfer Model (CRTM) [3] operationally supports satellite radiance assimilation for weather forecasting, sensor data verification, and the retrievals of satellite products. The CRTM has been applied to UV and visible sensors, infrared and microwave sensors. The paper will demonstrate the applications of the CRTM, in particular radiative transfer in the retrieva algorithm. The NOAA Unique CrIS/ATMS Processing System (NUCAPS) operationally generates vertical profiles of atmospheric temperature (AVTP) and moisture (AVMP) from Suomi NPP Cross-track Infrared Sounder (CrIS) and Advanced Technology Microwave Sounder (ATMS) measurements. Current operational CrIS data have reduced spectral resolution: 1.25 cm-1 for a middle wave band and 2.5 cm-1 for a short-wave wave band [1]. The reduced spectral data largely degraded the retrieval accuracy of trace gases. CrIS full spectral data are also available now which have single spectral resolution of 0.625 cm-1 for all of the three bands: long-wave band, middle wave band, and short-wave band. The CrIS full-spectral resolution data is critical to the retrieval of trace gases such as O3, CO [2], CO2, and CH4. In this paper, we use the Community Radiative Transfer Model (CRTM) to study the impact of the CrIS spectral resolution on the retrieval accuracy of trace gases. The newly released CRTM version 2.2.1 can simulates Hamming-apodized CrIS radiance of a full-spectral resolution. We developed a small utility that can convert the CRTM simulated radiance to un-apodized radiance. The latter has better spectral information which can be helpful to the retrievals of the trace gases. The retrievals will be validated using both NWP model data as well as the data collected during AEROSE expeditions [4]. We will also discuss the sensitivity on trace gases between apodized and un-apodized radiances. References[1] Gambacorta, A., et al.(2013), IEEE Lett., 11(9), doi:10.1109/LGRS.2014.230364, 1639-1643. [2] Han, Y., et al. (2013), JGR.,118, 12,734-12,748, doi:10.1002/2013JD020344. [3] Liu, Q., and S. Boukabara (2013), Remote Sen. Environ., 140 (2014) 744-754. [4] Nalli, N. R. et al(2011) . Bulletin of the American Meteorological Society, (92), 765-789.

Air Quality Forecasts Using the NASA GEOS Model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Keller, Christoph A.; Knowland, K. Emma; Nielsen, Jon E.; Orbe, Clara; Ott, Lesley; Pawson, Steven; Saunders, Emily; Duncan, Bryan; Follette-Cook, Melanie; Liu, Junhua;

TRACE Images of the Solar Chromosphere, Transition Region, and Low Corona at High Cadence and High Spatial Resolution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tarbell, T. D.; Handy, B. N.; Judge, P. G.

1999-05-01

We present TRACE images and movies showing C IV emission (transition region at 80,000 degrees) and UV continuum (temperature minimum region) of quiet and active regions. TRACE images using the 1550, 1600, and 1700 Angstroms filters can be combined to estimate the total emission in the C IV 1548 and 1550 lines and the UV continuum. These are supplemented in different observations with MDI magnetograms, TRACE 171 Angstroms images (Fe IX/X and perhaps O VI), and SUMER spectra of chromospheric and transition region lines from SOHO JOP 72. In quiet sun, bright C IV transients are seen in the vicinity of flux emergence, flux cancellation, and less dramatic interactions of small magnetic structures. Some of these are accompanied by high-velocity explosive events seen in SUMER spectra. The C IV emission can be well-separated from the photospheric magnetic footpoints, suggesting that it takes place on current sheets higher in the atmosphere separating different flux systems. In active regions, both bright and dark fibrils or loops are seen in C IV. Many nano/micro/sub flares are seen, some but not all of which are associated with emerging flux. The C IV emission of "moss" regions, footpoints of hot coronal loops, is contrasted with that of similar plage which does not have hot loops above it. This work was supported by the NASA contracts and grants for TRACE, MDI, and SOHO.

Very high-pressure orogenic garnet peridotites

PubMed Central

Liou, J. G.; Zhang, R. Y.; Ernst, W. G.

2007-01-01

Mantle-derived garnet peridotites are a minor component in many very high-pressure metamorphic terranes that formed during continental subduction and collision. Some of these mantle rocks contain trace amounts of zircon and micrometer-sized inclusions. The constituent minerals exhibit pre- and postsubduction microstructures, including polymorphic transformation and mineral exsolution. Experimental, mineralogical, petrochemical, and geochronological characterizations using novel techniques with high spatial, temporal, and energy resolutions are resulting in unexpected discoveries of new phases, providing better constraints on deep mantle processes. PMID:17519341

Gas trace detection with cavity enhanced absorption spectroscopy: a review of its process in the field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Siqi; Luo, Zhifu; Tan, Zhongqi; Long, Xingwu

2016-11-01

Cavity-enhanced absorption spectroscopy (CEAS) is a technology in which the intracavity absorption is deduced from the intensity of light transmitted by the high finesse optical cavity. Then the samples' parameters, such as their species, concentration and absorption cross section, would be detection. It was first proposed and demonstrated by Engeln R. [1] and O'Keefe[2] in 1998. This technology has extraordinary detection sensitivity, high resolution and good practicability, so it is used in many fields , such as clinical medicine, gas detection and basic physics research. In this paper, we focus on the use of gas trace detection, including the advance of CEAS over the past twenty years, the newest research progresses, and the prediction of this technology's development direction in the future.

Identification of trace additives in polymer materials by attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared mapping coupled with multivariate curve resolution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Qian; Tang, Yongjiao; Yan, Zhiwei; Zhang, Pudun

2017-06-01

Although multivariate curve resolution (MCR) has been applied to the analysis of Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) imaging, it is still problematic to determine the number of components. The reported methods at present tend to cause the components of low concentration missed. In this paper a new idea was proposed to resolve this problem. First, MCR calculation was repeated by increasing the number of components sequentially, then each retrieved pure spectrum of as-resulted MCR component was directly compared with a real-world pixel spectrum of the local high concentration in the corresponding MCR map. One component was affirmed only if the characteristic bands of the MCR component had been included in its pixel spectrum. This idea was applied to attenuated total reflection (ATR)/FTIR mapping for identifying the trace additives in blind polymer materials and satisfactory results were acquired. The successful demonstration of this novel approach opens up new possibilities for analyzing additives in polymer materials.

LIFT a future atmospheric chemistry sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pailharey, E.; Châteauneuf, F.; Aminou, D.

2017-11-01

Natural and anthropogenic trace constituents play an important role for the ozone budget and climate as well as in other problems of the environment. In order to prevent the dramatic impact of any climate change, exchange processes between the stratosphere and troposphere as well as the distribution and deposition of tropospheric trace constituents are investigated. The Limb Infrared Fourier Transform spectrometer (LIFT) will globally provide calibrated spectra of the atmosphere as a function of the tangent altitude. LIFT field of view will be 30 km × 30 km. The resolution is 30 km in azimuth corresponding to the full field of view, and 2 km in elevation, obtained by using a matrix of 15×15 detectors. The instrument will cover the spectral domain 5.7-14.7 μm through 2 different bands respectively 13.0-9.5 μm, 9.5-5.7 μm. With a spectral resolution of 0.1 cm-1, LIFT is a high class Fourier Transform Spectrometer compliant with the challenging constraints of limb viewing and spaceborne implementation.

Chandra's Ultimate Angular Resolution: Studies of the HRC-I Point Spread Function

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Juda, Michael; Karovska, M.

2010-03-01

The Chandra High Resolution Camera (HRC) should provide an ideal imaging match to the High-Resolution Mirror Assembly (HRMA). The laboratory-measured intrinsic resolution of the HRC is 20 microns FWHM. HRC event positions are determined via a centroiding method rather than by using discrete pixels. This event position reconstruction method and any non-ideal performance of the detector electronics can introduce distortions in event locations that, when combined with spacecraft dither, produce artifacts in source images. We compare ray-traces of the HRMA response to "on-axis" observations of AR Lac and Capella as they move through their dither patterns to images produced from filtered event lists to characterize the effective intrinsic PSF of the HRC-I. A two-dimensional Gaussian, which is often used to represent the detector response, is NOT a good representation of the intrinsic PSF of the HRC-I; the actual PSF has a sharper peak and additional structure which will be discussed. This work was supported under NASA contract NAS8-03060.

Theoretical simulation of solar spectra in the middle ultraviolet and visible for atmospheric trace constituent measurements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goldman, A.

1978-01-01

Two balloon flights reaching float altitudes of approximately 30 and 40 km respectively, were used to obtain scans of the ultraviolet and visible solar spectra. Both flights covered the UV (2800-3500A) at approximately 0.3A resolution and the visible at approximately 0.6A. Numerous scans were obtained during ascent and from float for both flights. All spectral scans obtained at float, from high sun to low sun, were calibrated in wavelength by using several standard solar spectra for line position references. Comparisons of low sun scans and high sun scans show significant atmospheric continuum extinction and have the potential of being used to identify atmospheric lines superimposed on the attenuated solar spectrum. The resolution was mathematically degraded to approximately 5A to better see the broad band atmospheric extinction. This low resolution is also appropriate for the available low resolution absorption coefficients of NO2 and O3, allowing the identification of NO2 and O3 features on the sunset spectra.

Poisson traces, D-modules, and symplectic resolutions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Etingof, Pavel; Schedler, Travis

2018-03-01

We survey the theory of Poisson traces (or zeroth Poisson homology) developed by the authors in a series of recent papers. The goal is to understand this subtle invariant of (singular) Poisson varieties, conditions for it to be finite-dimensional, its relationship to the geometry and topology of symplectic resolutions, and its applications to quantizations. The main technique is the study of a canonical D-module on the variety. In the case the variety has finitely many symplectic leaves (such as for symplectic singularities and Hamiltonian reductions of symplectic vector spaces by reductive groups), the D-module is holonomic, and hence, the space of Poisson traces is finite-dimensional. As an application, there are finitely many irreducible finite-dimensional representations of every quantization of the variety. Conjecturally, the D-module is the pushforward of the canonical D-module under every symplectic resolution of singularities, which implies that the space of Poisson traces is dual to the top cohomology of the resolution. We explain many examples where the conjecture is proved, such as symmetric powers of du Val singularities and symplectic surfaces and Slodowy slices in the nilpotent cone of a semisimple Lie algebra. We compute the D-module in the case of surfaces with isolated singularities and show it is not always semisimple. We also explain generalizations to arbitrary Lie algebras of vector fields, connections to the Bernstein-Sato polynomial, relations to two-variable special polynomials such as Kostka polynomials and Tutte polynomials, and a conjectural relationship with deformations of symplectic resolutions. In the appendix we give a brief recollection of the theory of D-modules on singular varieties that we require.

Poisson traces, D-modules, and symplectic resolutions.

PubMed

Etingof, Pavel; Schedler, Travis

2018-01-01

We survey the theory of Poisson traces (or zeroth Poisson homology) developed by the authors in a series of recent papers. The goal is to understand this subtle invariant of (singular) Poisson varieties, conditions for it to be finite-dimensional, its relationship to the geometry and topology of symplectic resolutions, and its applications to quantizations. The main technique is the study of a canonical D-module on the variety. In the case the variety has finitely many symplectic leaves (such as for symplectic singularities and Hamiltonian reductions of symplectic vector spaces by reductive groups), the D-module is holonomic, and hence, the space of Poisson traces is finite-dimensional. As an application, there are finitely many irreducible finite-dimensional representations of every quantization of the variety. Conjecturally, the D-module is the pushforward of the canonical D-module under every symplectic resolution of singularities, which implies that the space of Poisson traces is dual to the top cohomology of the resolution. We explain many examples where the conjecture is proved, such as symmetric powers of du Val singularities and symplectic surfaces and Slodowy slices in the nilpotent cone of a semisimple Lie algebra. We compute the D-module in the case of surfaces with isolated singularities and show it is not always semisimple. We also explain generalizations to arbitrary Lie algebras of vector fields, connections to the Bernstein-Sato polynomial, relations to two-variable special polynomials such as Kostka polynomials and Tutte polynomials, and a conjectural relationship with deformations of symplectic resolutions. In the appendix we give a brief recollection of the theory of D-modules on singular varieties that we require.

On the Information Content of Program Traces

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Frumkin, Michael; Hood, Robert; Yan, Jerry; Saini, Subhash (Technical Monitor)

1998-01-01

Program traces are used for analysis of program performance, memory utilization, and communications as well as for program debugging. The trace contains records of execution events generated by monitoring units inserted into the program. The trace size limits the resolution of execution events and restricts the user's ability to analyze the program execution. We present a study of the information content of program traces and develop a coding scheme which reduces the trace size to the limit given by the trace entropy. We apply the coding to the traces of AIMS instrumented programs executed on the IBM SPA and the SCSI Power Challenge and compare it with other coding methods. Our technique shows size of the trace can be reduced by more than a factor of 5.

High temporal resolution tracing of up-and downward carbon transport in oak trees

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bloemen, Jasper; Ingrisch, Johannes; Bahn, Michael

2017-04-01

Carbon (C) allocation defines the flows of C between plant organs and their storage pools and metabolic processes and is therefore considered as an important determinant of forest C budgets and their responses to climate change. In trees, assimilates derived from leaf photosynthesis are transported via the phloem to above- and belowground sink tissues, where partitioning between growth, storage, and respiration occurs. At the same time, root- and aboveground respired CO2 can be dissolved in water and transported in the xylem tissue, thereby representing a secondary C flux of large magnitude. The relative magnitude of both fluxes in a same set of trees and their concurrent role in C allocation remains unclear. In this study, we 13C pulse labeled five year old potted oak (Quercus rubra) trees to investigate both the role of C transport via the phloem and xylem in C allocation. To this end trees were randomly assigned to two 13C labeling experiments: 1) a canopy labeling experiment using transparent canopy chambers and 2) a stem labeling experiment based on the infusion of 13C labeled water in the stem base. We used high-resolution laser-based measurements of the isotopic composition of stem and soil CO2 efflux to monitor both the down-and upward transport of 13C label. Additional tissue samples at stem, canopy and root level were analyzed to validate the assimilation of the label in tree tissues during transport. Overall, after both labeling experiments enrichment was observed in both stem and soil CO2 efflux, showing that the 13C label was removed from both xylem and phloem transport during up- and downward transport, respectively. Higher enrichments of CO2 efflux were observed after stem labeling as compared to canopy labeling, which implies that xylem transport strongly contributes to C lost to the atmosphere. This study is the first to show combined results from tracing of xylem and phloem transport of C for a same set of trees at high temporal resolution using a 13C labeling approach. Moreover, they extend results from previous studies on the tracing of phloem transport in trees to a tracing of both xylem and canopy transport as well as results from studies on the internal CO2 transport in species with high transpiration rates like poplar to species with lower transpiration rates like oak. The results further demonstrate the complex interplay of phloem and xylem transport of carbon and its role for the emission of respired CO2 from trees into the atmosphere.

Regional trace gas monitoring simplified - A linear retrieval scheme for carbon monoxide from hyperspectral soundings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smith, N.; Huang, A.; Weisz, E.; Annegarn, H. J.

2011-12-01

The Fast Linear Inversion Trace gas System (FLITS) is designed to retrieve tropospheric total column trace gas densities [molec.cm-2] from space-borne hyperspectral infrared soundings. The objective to develop a new retrieval scheme was motivated by the need for near real-time air quality monitoring at high spatial resolution. We present a case study of FLITS carbon monoxide (CO) retrievals from daytime (descending orbit) Infrared Atmospheric Sounding Interferometer (IASI) measurements that have a 0.5 cm-1 spectral resolution and 12 km footprint at nadir. The standard Level 2 IASI CO retrieval product (COL2) is available in near real-time but is spatially averaged over 2 x 2 pixels, or 50 x 50 km, and thus more suitable for global analysis. The study region is Southern Africa (south of the equator) for the period 28-31 August 2008. An atmospheric background estimate is obtained from a chemical transport model, emissivity from regional measurements and surface temperature (ST) from space-borne retrievals. The CO background error is set to 10%. FLITS retrieves CO by assuming a simple linear relationship between the IASI measurements and background estimate of the atmosphere and surface parameters. This differs from the COL2 algorithm that treats CO retrieval as a moderately non-linear problem. When compared to COL2, the FLITS retrievals display similar trends in distribution and transport of CO over time with the advantage of an improved spatial resolution (single-pixel). The value of the averaging kernel (A) is consistently above 0.5 and indicates that FLITS retrievals have a stable dependence on the measurement. This stability is achieved through careful channel selection in the strongest CO absorption lines (2050-2225 cm-1) and joint retrieval with skin temperature (IASI sensitivity to CO is highly correlated with ST), thus no spatial averaging is necessary. We conclude that the simplicity and stability of FLITS make it useful first as a research tool, i.e. the algorithm is easy to understand and computationally simple enough to run on most desktop computers, and second, as an operational tool that can calculate near real-time CO retrievals at instrument resolution for regional monitoring.

The investigation of active Martian dune fields using very high resolution photogrammetric measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Jungrack; Kim, Younghwi; Park, Minseong

2016-10-01

At the present time, arguments continue regarding the migration speeds of Martian dune fields and their correlation with atmospheric circulation. However, precisely measuring the spatial translation of Martian dunes has succeeded only a very few times—for example, in the Nili Patera study (Bridges et al. 2012) using change-detection algorithms and orbital imagery. Therefore, in this study, we developed a generic procedure to precisely measure the migration of dune fields with recently introduced 25-cm resolution orbital imagery specifically using a high-accuracy photogrammetric processor. The processor was designed to trace estimated dune migration, albeit slight, over the Martian surface by 1) the introduction of very high resolution ortho images and stereo analysis based on hierarchical geodetic control for better initial point settings; 2) positioning error removal throughout the sensor model refinement with a non-rigorous bundle block adjustment, which makes possible the co-alignment of all images in a time series; and 3) improved sub-pixel co-registration algorithms using optical flow with a refinement stage conducted on a pyramidal grid processor and a blunder classifier. Moreover, volumetric changes of Martian dunes were additionally traced by means of stereo analysis and photoclinometry. The established algorithms have been tested using high-resolution HIRISE time-series images over several Martian dune fields. Dune migrations were iteratively processed both spatially and volumetrically, and the results were integrated to be compared to the Martian climate model. Migrations over well-known crater dune fields appeared to be almost static for the considerable temporal periods and were weakly correlated with wind directions estimated by the Mars Climate Database (Millour et al. 2015). As a result, a number of measurements over dune fields in the Mars Global Dune Database (Hayward et al. 2014) covering polar areas and mid-latitude will be demonstrated. Acknowledgements:The research leading to these results has received funding from the European Union's Seventh Framework Programme (FP7/2007-2013) under iMars grant agreement Nr. 607379.

Linking genes to ecosystem trace gas fluxes in a large-scale model system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meredith, L. K.; Cueva, A.; Volkmann, T. H. M.; Sengupta, A.; Troch, P. A.

2017-12-01

Soil microorganisms mediate biogeochemical cycles through biosphere-atmosphere gas exchange with significant impact on atmospheric trace gas composition. Improving process-based understanding of these microbial populations and linking their genomic potential to the ecosystem-scale is a challenge, particularly in soil systems, which are heterogeneous in biodiversity, chemistry, and structure. In oligotrophic systems, such as the Landscape Evolution Observatory (LEO) at Biosphere 2, atmospheric trace gas scavenging may supply critical metabolic needs to microbial communities, thereby promoting tight linkages between microbial genomics and trace gas utilization. This large-scale model system of three initially homogenous and highly instrumented hillslopes facilitates high temporal resolution characterization of subsurface trace gas fluxes at hundreds of sampling points, making LEO an ideal location to study microbe-mediated trace gas fluxes from the gene to ecosystem scales. Specifically, we focus on the metabolism of ubiquitous atmospheric reduced trace gases hydrogen (H2), carbon monoxide (CO), and methane (CH4), which may have wide-reaching impacts on microbial community establishment, survival, and function. Additionally, microbial activity on LEO may facilitate weathering of the basalt matrix, which can be studied with trace gas measurements of carbonyl sulfide (COS/OCS) and carbon dioxide (O-isotopes in CO2), and presents an additional opportunity for gene to ecosystem study. This work will present initial measurements of this suite of trace gases to characterize soil microbial metabolic activity, as well as links between spatial and temporal variability of microbe-mediated trace gas fluxes in LEO and their relation to genomic-based characterization of microbial community structure (phylogenetic amplicons) and genetic potential (metagenomics). Results from the LEO model system will help build understanding of the importance of atmospheric inputs to microorganisms pioneering fresh mineral matrix. Additionally, the measurement and modeling techniques that will be developed at LEO will be relevant for other investigators linking microbial genomics to ecosystem function in more well-developed soils with greater complexity.

Tracing the metabolism of HT-2 toxin and T-2 toxin in barley by isotope-assisted untargeted screening and quantitative LC-HRMS analysis

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

An extensive study of the metabolism of the type-A trichothecene mycotoxins HT-2 toxin and T-2 toxin in barley using liquid chromatography coupled to high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS) is reported. A recently developed untargeted approach based on stable isotopic labelling, LC-Orbitrap-MS a...

Infrared radiation parameterizations for the minor CO2 bands and for several CFC bands in the window region

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kratz, David P.; Chou, Ming-Dah; Yan, Michael M.-H.

1993-01-01

Fast and accurate parameterizations have been developed for the transmission functions of the CO2 9.4- and 10.4-micron bands, as well as the CFC-11, CFC-12, and CFC-22 bands located in the 8-12-micron region. The parameterizations are based on line-by-line calculations of transmission functions for the CO2 bands and on high spectral resolution laboratory measurements of the absorption coefficients for the CFC bands. Also developed are the parameterizations for the H2O transmission functions for the corresponding spectral bands. Compared to the high-resolution calculations, fluxes at the tropopause computed with the parameterizations are accurate to within 10 percent when overlapping of gas absorptions within a band is taken into account. For individual gas absorption, the accuracy is of order 0-2 percent. The climatic effects of these trace gases have been studied using a zonally averaged multilayer energy balance model, which includes seasonal cycles and a simplified deep ocean. With the trace gas abundances taken to follow the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Low Emissions 'B' scenario, the transient response of the surface temperature is simulated for the period 1900-2060.

Application of a novel large-volume injection method using a stomach-shaped inlet liner in capillary gas chromatographic trace analysis of dioxins in human milk and plasma.

PubMed

Saito, Koichi; Ohmura, Atsuko; Takekuma, Mikiko; Sasano, Ryoichi; Matsuki, Yasuhiko; Nakazawa, Hiroyuki

2007-06-01

A newly developed large-volume injection (LVI) technique that employs a unique stomach-shaped inlet liner (SSIL) inside of a programmable temperature vaporizer was used for the determination of trace amounts of dioxins in human milk and plasma. The initial temperature and the initial dwelling time of the inlet and the kind of solvent used were found to be critical in determining the analytical sensitivity of dioxins due to the loss of these relatively volatile compounds during solvent vaporization. Human milk and plasma were purified and fractionated by pre-packed multi-layered silica-gel chromatography and activated carbon silica-gel column chromatography. A 20-microL aliquot of the fraction collected from the chromatography with toluene was directly applied to the LVI system in high-resolution gas chromatography/high-resolution mass spectrometry. Excellent correlation (r > 0.97) between the values obtained by the LVI method using the SSIL device and those by the conventional regular-volume splitless injection method was obtained for PCDDs, PCDFs and non-ortho PCBs in human milk and plasma samples.

High spatial resolution measurements of NO2 applying Topographic Target Light scattering-Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (ToTaL-DOAS)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Frins, E.; Platt, U.; Wagner, T.

2008-12-01

Topographic Target Light scattering - Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (ToTaL-DOAS), also called Target-DOAS, is a novel experimental procedure to retrieve trace gas concentrations present in the low atmosphere. Scattered sunlight (diffuse or specular) reflected from natural or artificial targets located at different distances are analyzed to retrieve the spatial distribution of the concentration of different trace gases like NO2, SO2 and others. We report high spatial resolution measurements of NO2 mixing ratios in the city of Montevideo (Uruguay) observing three buildings as targets with a Mini-DOAS instrument. Our instrument was 146 m, 196 m, and 280 m apart from three different buildings located along a main Avenue. We obtain temporal variation of NO2 mixing ratios between 30 ppb and 65 ppb from measurements of November 2007 and mixing ratios up to 50 ppb from measurements of August and September 2008. Our measurements demonstrate that ToTaL-DOAS observations can be made over relative short distances. In polluted air masses, the retrieved absorption signal was found to be sufficiently strong to allow measurements over distances in the range of several tens of meters.

The planetary hydraulics analysis based on a multi-resolution stereo DTMs and LISFLOOD-FP model: Case study in Mars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, J.; Schumann, G.; Neal, J. C.; Lin, S.

2013-12-01

Earth is the only planet possessing an active hydrological system based on H2O circulation. However, after Mariner 9 discovered fluvial channels on Mars with similar features to Earth, it became clear that some solid planets and satellites once had water flows or pseudo hydrological systems of other liquids. After liquid water was identified as the agent of ancient martian fluvial activities, the valley and channels on the martian surface were investigated by a number of remote sensing and in-suit measurements. Among all available data sets, the stereo DTM and ortho from various successful orbital sensor, such as High Resolution Stereo Camera (HRSC), Context Camera (CTX), and High Resolution Imaging Science Experiment (HiRISE), are being most widely used to trace the origin and consequences of martian hydrological channels. However, geomorphological analysis, with stereo DTM and ortho images over fluvial areas, has some limitations, and so a quantitative modeling method utilizing various spatial resolution DTMs is required. Thus in this study we tested the application of hydraulics analysis with multi-resolution martian DTMs, constructed in line with Kim and Muller's (2009) approach. An advanced LISFLOOD-FP model (Bates et al., 2010), which simulates in-channel dynamic wave behavior by solving 2D shallow water equations without advection, was introduced to conduct a high accuracy simulation together with 150-1.2m DTMs over test sites including Athabasca and Bahram valles. For application to a martian surface, technically the acceleration of gravity in LISFLOOD-FP was reduced to the martian value of 3.71 m s-2 and the Manning's n value (friction), the only free parameter in the model, was adjusted for martian gravity by scaling it. The approach employing multi-resolution stereo DTMs and LISFLOOD-FP was superior compared with the other research cases using a single DTM source for hydraulics analysis. HRSC DTMs, covering 50-150m resolutions was used to trace rough routes of water flows for extensive target areas. After then, refinements through hydraulics simulations with CTX DTMs (~12-18m resolution) and HiRISE DTMs (~1- 4m resolution) were conducted by employing the output of HRSC simulations as the initial conditions. Thus even a few high and very high resolution stereo DTMs coverage enabled the performance of a high precision hydraulics analysis for reconstructing a whole fluvial event. In this manner, useful information to identify the characteristics of martian fluvial activities, such as water depth along the time line, flow direction, and travel time, were successfully retrieved with each target tributary. Together with all above useful outputs of hydraulics analysis, the local roughness and photogrammetric control of the stereo DTMs appeared to be crucial elements for accurate fluvial simulation. The potential of this study should be further explored for its application to the other extraterrestrial bodies where fluvial activity once existed, as well as the major martian channel and valleys.

Factors Determining the Inter-observer Variability and Diagnostic Accuracy of High-resolution Manometry for Esophageal Motility Disorders.

PubMed

Kim, Ji Hyun; Kim, Sung Eun; Cho, Yu Kyung; Lim, Chul-Hyun; Park, Moo In; Hwang, Jin Won; Jang, Jae-Sik; Oh, Minkyung

2018-01-30

Although high-resolution manometry (HRM) has the advantage of visual intuitiveness, its diagnostic validity remains under debate. The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of HRM for esophageal motility disorders. Six staff members and 8 trainees were recruited for the study. In total, 40 patients enrolled in manometry studies at 3 institutes were selected. Captured images of 10 representative swallows and a single swallow in analyzing mode in both high-resolution pressure topography (HRPT) and conventional line tracing formats were provided with calculated metrics. Assessments of esophageal motility disorders showed fair agreement for HRPT and moderate agreement for conventional line tracing (κ = 0.40 and 0.58, respectively). With the HRPT format, the k value was higher in category A (esophagogastric junction [EGJ] relaxation abnormality) than in categories B (major body peristalsis abnormalities with intact EGJ relaxation) and C (minor body peristalsis abnormalities or normal body peristalsis with intact EGJ relaxation). The overall exact diagnostic accuracy for the HRPT format was 58.8% and rater's position was an independent factor for exact diagnostic accuracy. The diagnostic accuracy for major disorders was 63.4% with the HRPT format. The frequency of major discrepancies was higher for category B disorders than for category A disorders (38.4% vs 15.4%; P < 0.001). The interpreter's experience significantly affected the exact diagnostic accuracy of HRM for esophageal motility disorders. The diagnostic accuracy for major disorders was higher for achalasia than distal esophageal spasm and jackhammer esophagus.

3-D characterization of high-permeability zones in a gravel aquifer using 2-D crosshole GPR full-waveform inversion and waveguide detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Klotzsche, Anja; van der Kruk, Jan; Linde, Niklas; Doetsch, Joseph; Vereecken, Harry

2013-11-01

Reliable high-resolution 3-D characterization of aquifers helps to improve our understanding of flow and transport processes when small-scale structures have a strong influence. Crosshole ground penetrating radar (GPR) is a powerful tool for characterizing aquifers due to the method's high-resolution and sensitivity to porosity and soil water content. Recently, a novel GPR full-waveform inversion algorithm was introduced, which is here applied and used for 3-D characterization by inverting six crosshole GPR cross-sections collected between four wells arranged in a square configuration close to the Thur River in Switzerland. The inversion results in the saturated part of this gravel aquifer reveals a significant improvement in resolution for the dielectric permittivity and electrical conductivity images compared to ray-based methods. Consistent structures where acquisition planes intersect indicate the robustness of the inversion process. A decimetre-scale layer with high dielectric permittivity was revealed at a depth of 5-6 m in all six cross-sections analysed here, and a less prominent zone with high dielectric permittivity was found at a depth of 7.5-9 m. These high-permittivity layers act as low-velocity waveguides and they are interpreted as high-porosity layers and possible zones of preferential flow. Porosity estimates from the permittivity models agree well with estimates from Neutron-Neutron logging data at the intersecting diagonal planes. Moreover, estimates of hydraulic permeability based on flowmeter logs confirm the presence of zones of preferential flow in these depth intervals. A detailed analysis of the measured data for transmitters located within the waveguides, revealed increased trace energy due to late-arrival elongated wave trains, which were observed for receiver positions straddling this zone. For the same receiver positions within the waveguide, a distinct minimum in the trace energy was visible when the transmitter was located outside the waveguide. A novel amplitude analysis was proposed to explore these maxima and minima of the trace energy. Laterally continuous low-velocity waveguides and their boundaries were identified in the measured data alone. In contrast to the full-waveform inversion, this method follows a simple workflow and needs no detailed and time consuming processing or inversion of the data. Comparison with the full-waveform inversion results confirmed the presence of the waveguides illustrating that full-waveform inversion return reliable results at the highest resolution currently possible at these scales. We envision that full-waveform inversion of GPR data will play an important role in a wide range of geological, hydrological, glacial and periglacial studies in the critical zone.

Changes in trace and minor constituents and associated micro-architecture of Montastrea faveolata during time of "stress"

USGS Publications Warehouse

Holmes, C.W.; Buster, N.A.; Sorauf, J.E.; Hudson, J.H.; Kester, C.

2003-01-01

As corals grow, they secrete a calcareous skeleton with the aid of photosynthetic activity of endosymbiotic dinoflagellates. The rate of this secretion varies annually which produces annual bands. Entrapped with the carbonate are trace substances that record the chemistry of the surrounding ocean. Detailing these changes in chemistry requires careful high-resolution sampling. New procedures involving laser ablation inductive couple plasma mass spectroscopy (LA-ICP/MS) provides a unique method that does not involve tedious sample preparation. The La-ICP/MS data for a series of Atlantic corals from Looe Key, U.S. Florida Keys shows an intriguing distribution trace and minor elements whose concentrations are related to reported bleaching events. SEM data from the layers exhibit a change in crystal habit concurrent with the changes in chemistry. These changes reflected the affect of the variable influence of the symbiotic algae on the development of the coral skeleton.

Chemical Modeling for Studies of GeoTRACE Capabilities

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2005-01-01

Geostationary measurements of tropospheric pollutants with high spatial and temporal resolution will revolutionize the understanding and predictions of the chemically linked global pollutants aerosols and ozone. However, the capabilities of proposed geostationary instruments, particularly GeoTRACE, have not been thoroughly studied with model simulations. Such model simulations are important to answer the questions and allay the concerns that have been expressed in the atmospheric sciences community about the feasibility of such measurements. We proposed a suite of chemical transport model simulations using the EPA Models 3 chemical transport model, which obtains its meteorology from the MM-5 mesoscale model. The model output consists of gridded abundances of chemical pollutants and meteorological parameters every 30-60 minutes for cases that have occurred in the Eastern United States. This output was intended to be used to test the GeoTRACE capability to retrieve the tropospheric columns of these pollutants.

A fast MEMS scanning photoacoustic microscopy system and its application in glioma study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bi, Renzhe; Balasundaram, Ghayathri; Jeon, Seungwan; Pu, Yang; Tay, Hui Chien; Kim, Chulhong; Olivo, Malini

2018-02-01

We present a water-proof Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) based scanning optical resolution Photoacoustic Microscopy (OR-PAM) system and its application in glioma tumor mouse model study. The presented OR-PAM system has high optical resolution ( 3 μm) and high scanning speed (up to 50 kHz A-scan rate), which is ideal for cerebral vascular imaging. In this study, the mice with glioma tumor are treated with vascular disrupting agent (VDA). OR-PAM system is utilized to image the cerebral with the whole skull intact before and after the injection of VDA. By image registration, the response of every single blood vessel can be traced. This will provide us deeper understanding of the drug effect.

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

Newman, Justin A.; Schmitt, Paul D.; Toth, Scott J.

Here in this paper we demonstrate the use of second harmonic generation (SHG) microscopy-guided synchrotron powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) for the detection of trace crystalline active pharmaceutical ingredients in a common polymer blend. The combined instrument is capable of detecting 100 ppm crystalline ritonavir in an amorphous hydroxypropyl methylcellulose matrix with a high signal-to-noise ratio (>5000). The high spatial resolution afforded by SHG microscopy allows for the use of a minibeam collimator to reduce the total volume of material probed by synchrotron PXRD. The reduction in probed volume results in reduced background from amorphous material. The ability to detect lowmore » crystalline loading has the potential to improve measurements in the formulation pipeline for pharmaceutical solid dispersions, for which even trace quantities of crystalline active ingredients can negatively impact the stability and bioavailability of the final drug product.« less

Single-shot high-resolution characterization of optical pulses by spectral phase diversity

DOE PAGES

Dorrer, C.; Waxer, L. J.; Kalb, A.; ...

2015-12-15

The concept of spectral phase diversity is proposed and applied to the temporal characterization of optical pulses. The experimental trace is composed of the measured power of a plurality of ancillary optical pulses derived from the pulse under test by adding known amounts of chromatic dispersion. The spectral phase of the pulse under test is retrieved by minimizing the error between the experimental trace and a trace calculated from the optical spectrum using the known diagnostic parameters. An assembly composed of splitters and dispersive delay fibers has been used to generate 64 ancillary pulses whose instantaneous power can be detectedmore » in a single shot with a high-bandwidth photodiode and oscilloscope. Pulse-shape reconstruction for pulses shorter than the photodetection impulse response has been demonstrated.The diagnostic is experimentally shown to accurately characterize pulses from a chirped-pulse–amplification system when its stretcher is detuned from the position for optimal recompression. As a result, various investigations of the performance with respect to the number of ancillary pulses and the range of chromatic dispersion generated in the diagnostic are presented.« less

Single-shot high-resolution characterization of optical pulses by spectral phase diversity

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

Dorrer, C.; Waxer, L. J.; Kalb, A.

The concept of spectral phase diversity is proposed and applied to the temporal characterization of optical pulses. The experimental trace is composed of the measured power of a plurality of ancillary optical pulses derived from the pulse under test by adding known amounts of chromatic dispersion. The spectral phase of the pulse under test is retrieved by minimizing the error between the experimental trace and a trace calculated from the optical spectrum using the known diagnostic parameters. An assembly composed of splitters and dispersive delay fibers has been used to generate 64 ancillary pulses whose instantaneous power can be detectedmore » in a single shot with a high-bandwidth photodiode and oscilloscope. Pulse-shape reconstruction for pulses shorter than the photodetection impulse response has been demonstrated.The diagnostic is experimentally shown to accurately characterize pulses from a chirped-pulse–amplification system when its stretcher is detuned from the position for optimal recompression. As a result, various investigations of the performance with respect to the number of ancillary pulses and the range of chromatic dispersion generated in the diagnostic are presented.« less

Trace elements in hydrothermal quartz: Relationships to cathodoluminescent textures and insights into vein formation

USGS Publications Warehouse

Rusk, B.G.; Lowers, H.A.; Reed, M.H.

2008-01-01

High-resolution electron microprobe maps show the distribution of Ti, Al, Ca, K, and Fe among quartz growth zones revealed by scanning electron microscope-cathodoluminescence (SEM-CL) from 12 hydrothermal ore deposits formed between ???100 and e1750 ??C. The maps clearly show the relationships between trace elements and CL intensity in quartz. Among all samples, no single trace element consistently correlates with variations in CL intensity. However in vein quartz from five porphyry-Cu (Mo-Au) deposits, CL intensity always correlates positively with Ti concentrations, suggesting that Ti is a CL activator in quartz formed at >400 ??C. Ti concentrations in most rutile-bearing vein quartz from porphyry copper deposits indicate reasonable formation temperatures of 2000 ppm, but in high-temperature quartz, Al concentrations are consistently in the range of several hundred ppm. Aluminum concentrations in quartz refl ect the Al solubility in hydrothermal fluids, which is strongly dependent on pH. Aluminum concentrations in quartz therefore reflect fluctuations in pH that may drive metal-sulfide precipitation in hydrothermal systems. ?? 2008 The Geological Society of America.

Air Quality Forecasts Using the NASA GEOS Model: A Unified Tool from Local to Global Scales

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Knowland, E. Emma; Keller, Christoph; Nielsen, J. Eric; Orbe, Clara; Ott, Lesley; Pawson, Steven; Saunders, Emily; Duncan, Bryan; Cook, Melanie; Liu, Junhua;

Characterizing bidirectional reflectance and spectral albedo of various land cover types in Midwest using GeoTASO Summer-2014 campaign

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wulamu, A.; Fishman, J.; Maimaitiyiming, M.; Leitch, J. W.; Zoogman, P.; Liu, X.; Chance, K.; Marshall, B.

2015-12-01

Understanding the bi-directional reflectance function (BRDF) and spectral albedo of various land-cover types is critical for retrieval of trace gas measurements from planned geostationary satellites such as the Tropospheric Emissions: Monitoring of Pollution (TEMPO). Radiant energy, which will be measured by these instruments at the top of atmosphere (TOA) at unprecedented spectral resolution, is strongly influenced by how this energy is reflected by the underlying surface. Thus, it is critical that we understand this phenomenon at comparable wavelength resolution. As part of the NASA ESTO-funded Geostationary Trace gas and Aerosol Sensor Optimization (GeoTASO) development project, we carried out synchronous field and airborne data collection campaigns in the St Louis Metro region in Summer 2014. We collected spectral reflectance data of various land cover types on the ground within hours of a GeoTASO overpass using a field-based hyperspectral spectroradiometer (model PSR3500 from Spectral Evolution). Field measurements collecting in-situ spectral albedo and bidirectional reflectance factors were also obtained in July and August of 2015. In this study, we present our preliminary findings from in-situ and airborne GeoTASO derived spectral albedo and BRDF characteristics of major land cover types at TEMPO spectral profiles, which are necessary for the accurate retrieval of tropospheric trace gases and aerosols. First, a spectral database of various targets (e.g., plants, soils, rocks, man-made objects and water) was developed using field measurements. Next, the GeoTASO airborne data were corrected using MODTRAN and field measurements to derive spectral albedo and BRDF. High spatial resolution land-cover types were extracted using satellite images (e.g., Landsat, WorldView, IKONOS, etc.) at resolutions from 2 m - 30 m. Lastly, spectral albedo/BRDFs corresponding to various land cover types were analyzed using both field and GeoTASO measurements.

Chemical transport model ozone simulations for spring 2001 over the western Pacific: Comparisons with TRACE-P lidar, ozonesondes, and Total Ozone Mapping Spectrometer columns

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wild, Oliver; Sundet, Jostein K.; Prather, Michael J.; Isaksen, Ivar S. A.; Akimoto, Hajime; Browell, Edward V.; Oltmans, Samuel J.

2003-11-01

Two closely related chemical transport models (CTMs) employing the same high-resolution meteorological data (˜180 km × ˜180 km × ˜600 m) from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts are used to simulate the ozone total column and tropospheric distribution over the western Pacific region that was explored by the NASA Transport and Chemical Evolution over the Pacific (TRACE-P) measurement campaign in February-April 2001. We make extensive comparisons with ozone measurements from the lidar instrument on the NASA DC-8, with ozonesondes taken during the period around the Pacific Rim, and with TOMS total column ozone. These demonstrate that within the uncertainties of the meteorological data and the constraints of model resolution, the two CTMs (FRSGC/UCI and Oslo CTM2) can simulate the observed tropospheric ozone and do particularly well when realistic stratospheric ozone photochemistry is included. The greatest differences between the models and observations occur in the polluted boundary layer, where problems related to the simplified chemical mechanism and inadequate horizontal resolution are likely to have caused the net overestimation of about 10 ppb mole fraction. In the upper troposphere, the large variability driven by stratospheric intrusions makes agreement very sensitive to the timing of meteorological features.

LOR-interleaving image reconstruction for PET imaging with fractional-crystal collimation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Yusheng; Matej, Samuel; Karp, Joel S.; Metzler, Scott D.

2015-01-01

Positron emission tomography (PET) has become an important modality in medical and molecular imaging. However, in most PET applications, the resolution is still mainly limited by the physical crystal sizes or the detector’s intrinsic spatial resolution. To achieve images with better spatial resolution in a central region of interest (ROI), we have previously proposed using collimation in PET scanners. The collimator is designed to partially mask detector crystals to detect lines of response (LORs) within fractional crystals. A sequence of collimator-encoded LORs is measured with different collimation configurations. This novel collimated scanner geometry makes the reconstruction problem challenging, as both detector and collimator effects need to be modeled to reconstruct high-resolution images from collimated LORs. In this paper, we present a LOR-interleaving (LORI) algorithm, which incorporates these effects and has the advantage of reusing existing reconstruction software, to reconstruct high-resolution images for PET with fractional-crystal collimation. We also develop a 3D ray-tracing model incorporating both the collimator and crystal penetration for simulations and reconstructions of the collimated PET. By registering the collimator-encoded LORs with the collimator configurations, high-resolution LORs are restored based on the modeled transfer matrices using the non-negative least-squares method and EM algorithm. The resolution-enhanced images are then reconstructed from the high-resolution LORs using the MLEM or OSEM algorithm. For validation, we applied the LORI method to a small-animal PET scanner, A-PET, with a specially designed collimator. We demonstrate through simulated reconstructions with a hot-rod phantom and MOBY phantom that the LORI reconstructions can substantially improve spatial resolution and quantification compared to the uncollimated reconstructions. The LORI algorithm is crucial to improve overall image quality of collimated PET, which can have significant implications in preclinical and clinical ROI imaging applications.

Recently Active Traces of the Berryessa Fault, California: A Digital Database

USGS Publications Warehouse

Lienkaemper, James J.

2012-01-01

The purpose of this map is to show the location of and evidence for recent movement on active fault traces within the Berryessa section and parts of adjacent sections of the Green Valley Fault Zone, California. The location and recency of the mapped traces is primarily based on geomorphic expression of the fault as interpreted from large-scale 2010 aerial photography and from 2007 and 2011 0.5 and 1.0 meter bare-earth LiDAR imagery (that is, high-resolution topographic data). In a few places, evidence of fault creep and offset Holocene strata in trenches and natural exposures have confirmed the activity of some of these traces. This publication is formatted both as a digital database for use within a geographic information system (GIS) and for broader public access as map images that may be browsed on-line or download a summary map. The report text describes the types of scientific observations used to make the map, gives references pertaining to the fault and the evidence of faulting, and provides guidance for use of and limitations of the map.

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

Xu, C. Shan; Hayworth, Kenneth J.; Lu, Zhiyuan

Focused Ion Beam Scanning Electron Microscopy (FIB-SEM) can automatically generate 3D images with superior z-axis resolution, yielding data that needs minimal image registration and related post-processing. Obstacles blocking wider adoption of FIB-SEM include slow imaging speed and lack of long-term system stability, which caps the maximum possible acquisition volume. Here, we present techniques that accelerate image acquisition while greatly improving FIB-SEM reliability, allowing the system to operate for months and generating continuously imaged volumes > 10 6 ?m 3 . These volumes are large enough for connectomics, where the excellent z resolution can help in tracing of small neuronal processesmore » and accelerate the tedious and time-consuming human proofreading effort. Even higher resolution can be achieved on smaller volumes. We present example data sets from mammalian neural tissue, Drosophila brain, and Chlamydomonas reinhardtii to illustrate the power of this novel high-resolution technique to address questions in both connectomics and cell biology.« less

Enhanced FIB-SEM systems for large-volume 3D imaging.

PubMed

Xu, C Shan; Hayworth, Kenneth J; Lu, Zhiyuan; Grob, Patricia; Hassan, Ahmed M; García-Cerdán, José G; Niyogi, Krishna K; Nogales, Eva; Weinberg, Richard J; Hess, Harald F

2017-05-13

Focused Ion Beam Scanning Electron Microscopy (FIB-SEM) can automatically generate 3D images with superior z-axis resolution, yielding data that needs minimal image registration and related post-processing. Obstacles blocking wider adoption of FIB-SEM include slow imaging speed and lack of long-term system stability, which caps the maximum possible acquisition volume. Here, we present techniques that accelerate image acquisition while greatly improving FIB-SEM reliability, allowing the system to operate for months and generating continuously imaged volumes > 10 6 µm 3 . These volumes are large enough for connectomics, where the excellent z resolution can help in tracing of small neuronal processes and accelerate the tedious and time-consuming human proofreading effort. Even higher resolution can be achieved on smaller volumes. We present example data sets from mammalian neural tissue, Drosophila brain, and Chlamydomonas reinhardtii to illustrate the power of this novel high-resolution technique to address questions in both connectomics and cell biology.

Environmental applications of single collector high resolution ICP-MS.

PubMed

Krachler, Michael

2007-08-01

The number of environmental applications of single collector high resolution ICP-MS (HR-ICP-MS) has increased rapidly in recent years. There are many factors that contribute to make HR-ICP-MS a very powerful tool in environmental analysis. They include the extremely low detection limits achievable, tremendously high sensitivity, the ability to separate ICP-MS signals of the analyte from spectral interferences, enabling the reliable determination of many trace elements, and the reasonable precision of isotope ratio measurements. These assets are improved even further using high efficiency sample introduction systems. Therefore, external factors such as the stability of laboratory blanks are frequently the limiting factor in HR-ICP-MS analysis rather than the detection power. This review aims to highlight the most recent applications of HR-ICP-MS in this sector, focusing on matrices and applications where the superior capabilities of the instrumental technique are most useful and often ultimately required.

Anterograde and retrograde tracing with high molecular weight biotinylated dextran amine through thalamocortical and corticothalamic pathways.

PubMed

Zhang, Wenjie; Xu, Dongsheng; Cui, Jingjing; Jing, Xianghong; Xu, Nenggui; Liu, Jianhua; Bai, Wanzhu

2017-02-01

Biotinylated dextran amine (BDA) has been used for neural pathway tracing in the central nervous system for many decades, in which high molecular weight BDA appeared to be transported predominantly in the anterograde direction and less in the retrograde direction. In the current study, we reexamined the properties of neural labeling with high molecular weight BDA through a reciprocal neural pathway between thalamus and somatosensory cortex. After injection of BDA into the ventral posteromedial nucleus of thalamus (VPM) in the rat, the BDA labeling was sequentially examined on somatosensory cortex at 3, 5, 7, 10, and 14 survival days. Both of anterogradely labeled axonal terminals and retrogradely labeled neuronal cell bodies were observed simultaneously on the somatosensory cortex. With the increasing of survival times after injection, morphological changes occurred on the labeled axonal arbors and neuronal dendrites, in which the high quality of BDA labeling appeared on the tenth survival day. These results indicate that high molecular weight BDA is not only a sensitive anterograde tracer but also an excellent retrograde marker to be used for tracing through thalamocortical and corticothalamic pathways. And the detailed structure of neural labeling with BDA similar to Golgi-like resolution can be obtained at optimal survival times of animals after the injection of high molecular weight BDA. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Sensitive sub-Doppler nonlinear spectroscopy for hyperfine-structure analysis using simple atomizers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mickadeit, Fritz K.; Kemp, Helen; Schafer, Julia; Tong, William M.

1998-05-01

Laser wave-mixing spectroscopy is presented as a sub-Doppler method that offers not only high spectral resolution, but also excellent detection sensitivity. It offers spectral resolution suitable for hyperfine structure analysis and isotope ratio measurements. In a non-planar backward- scattering four-wave mixing optical configuration, two of the three input beams counter propagate and the Doppler broadening is minimized, and hence, spectral resolution is enhanced. Since the signal is a coherent beam, optical collection is efficient and signal detection is convenient. This simple multi-photon nonlinear laser method offers un usually sensitive detection limits that are suitable for trace-concentration isotope analysis using a few different types of simple analytical atomizers. Reliable measurement of hyperfine structures allows effective determination of isotope ratios for chemical analysis.

Active and Passive Sensing from Geosynchronous and Libration Orbits

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schoeberl, Mark; Raymond, Carol; Hildebrand, Peter

2003-01-01

The development of the LEO (EOS) missions has led the way to new technologies and new science discoveries. However, LEO measurements alone cannot cost effectively produce high time resolution measurements needed to move the science to the next level. Both GEO and the Lagrange points, L1 and L2, provide vantage points that will allow higher time resolution measurements. GEO is currently being exploited by weather satellites, but the sensors currently operating at GEO do not provide the spatial or spectral resolution needed for atmospheric trace gas, ocean or land surface measurements. It is also may be possible to place active sensors in geostationary orbit. It seems clear, that the next era in earth observation and discovery will be opened by sensor systems operating beyond near earth orbit.

Universal trace pollutant detector for aircraft monitoring of the ozone layer and industrial areas

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Filiouguine, I. V.; Kostiouchenko, S. V.; Koudriavtsev, N. N.

1994-01-01

A method of monitoring the trace impurities of nitrogen oxides based on controlling of luminescence of NO molecules excited by nanosecond gas discharge have been developed having pptv-ppbv sensitivity and temporal resolution less than 0.01 s.

Active learning of neuron morphology for accurate automated tracing of neurites

PubMed Central

Gala, Rohan; Chapeton, Julio; Jitesh, Jayant; Bhavsar, Chintan; Stepanyants, Armen

2014-01-01

Automating the process of neurite tracing from light microscopy stacks of images is essential for large-scale or high-throughput quantitative studies of neural circuits. While the general layout of labeled neurites can be captured by many automated tracing algorithms, it is often not possible to differentiate reliably between the processes belonging to different cells. The reason is that some neurites in the stack may appear broken due to imperfect labeling, while others may appear fused due to the limited resolution of optical microscopy. Trained neuroanatomists routinely resolve such topological ambiguities during manual tracing tasks by combining information about distances between branches, branch orientations, intensities, calibers, tortuosities, colors, as well as the presence of spines or boutons. Likewise, to evaluate different topological scenarios automatically, we developed a machine learning approach that combines many of the above mentioned features. A specifically designed confidence measure was used to actively train the algorithm during user-assisted tracing procedure. Active learning significantly reduces the training time and makes it possible to obtain less than 1% generalization error rates by providing few training examples. To evaluate the overall performance of the algorithm a number of image stacks were reconstructed automatically, as well as manually by several trained users, making it possible to compare the automated traces to the baseline inter-user variability. Several geometrical and topological features of the traces were selected for the comparisons. These features include the total trace length, the total numbers of branch and terminal points, the affinity of corresponding traces, and the distances between corresponding branch and terminal points. Our results show that when the density of labeled neurites is sufficiently low, automated traces are not significantly different from manual reconstructions obtained by trained users. PMID:24904306

Halloysite nanotubes as a solid sorbent in ultrasound-assisted dispersive micro solid-phase extraction for the determination of bismuth in water samples using high-resolution continuum source graphite-furnace atomic absorption spectrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krawczyk-Coda, Magdalena

2017-03-01

In this research, a simple, accurate, and inexpensive preconcentration procedure was developed for the determination of bismuth in water samples, using high-resolution continuum source graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (HR CS GFAAS). During the preconcentration step, halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) were used as a solid sorbent in ultrasound-assisted dispersive micro solid-phase extraction (USA DMSPE). The influence of the pH of the sample solution, amount of HNTs, and extraction time, as well as of the main parameters of HR CS GFAAS, on absorbance was investigated. The limit of detection was 0.005 μg L- 1. The preconcentration factor achieved for bismuth was 32. The relative standard deviation (RSD) was 4%. The accuracy of this method was validated by analyses of NIST SRM 1643e (Trace elements in water) and TMDA-54.5 (A high level fortified sample for trace elements) certified reference materials. The measured bismuth contents in these certified reference materials were in satisfactory agreement with the certified values according to the t-test for a 95% confidence level. The proposed method has been successfully applied to the determination of bismuth in five different real water samples (seawater, lake water, river water, stream water and rain water).

Strategy for the elucidation of elemental compositions of trace analytes based on a mass resolution of 100,000 full width at half maximum.

PubMed

Kaufmann, Anton

2010-07-30

Elemental compositions (ECs) can be elucidated by evaluating the high-resolution mass spectra of unknown or suspected unfragmented analyte ions. Classical approaches utilize the exact mass of the monoisotopic peak (M + 0) and the relative abundance of isotope peaks (M + 1 and M + 2). The availability of high-resolution instruments like the Orbitrap currently permits mass resolutions up to 100,000 full width at half maximum. This not only allows the determination of relative isotopic abundances (RIAs), but also the extraction of other diagnostic information from the spectra, such as fully resolved signals originating from (34)S isotopes and fully or partially resolved signals related to (15)N isotopes (isotopic fine structure). Fully and partially resolved peaks can be evaluated by visual inspection of the measured peak profiles. This approach is shown to be capable of correctly discarding many of the EC candidates which were proposed by commercial EC calculating algorithms. Using this intuitive strategy significantly extends the upper mass range for the successful elucidation of ECs. Copyright 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Calibration of Herschel SPIRE FTS observations at different spectral resolutions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marchili, N.; Hopwood, R.; Fulton, T.; Polehampton, E. T.; Valtchanov, I.; Zaretski, J.; Naylor, D. A.; Griffin, M. J.; Imhof, P.; Lim, T.; Lu, N.; Makiwa, G.; Pearson, C.; Spencer, L.

2017-01-01

The SPIRE Fourier Transform Spectrometer on-board the Herschel Space Observatory had two standard spectral resolution modes for science observations: high resolution (HR) and low resolution (LR), which could also be performed in sequence (H+LR). A comparison of the HR and LR resolution spectra taken in this sequential mode revealed a systematic discrepancy in the continuum level. Analysing the data at different stages during standard pipeline processing demonstrates that the telescope and instrument emission affect HR and H+LR observations in a systematically different way. The origin of this difference is found to lie in the variation of both the telescope and instrument response functions, while it is triggered by fast variation of the instrument temperatures. As it is not possible to trace the evolution of the response functions using housekeeping data from the instrument subsystems, the calibration cannot be corrected analytically. Therefore, an empirical correction for LR spectra has been developed, which removes the systematic noise introduced by the variation of the response functions.

Daily and 3-hourly Variability in Global Fire Emissions and Consequences for Atmospheric Model Predictions of Carbon Monoxide

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mu, M.; Randerson, J. T.; vanderWerf, G. R.; Giglio, L.; Kasibhatla, P.; Morton, D.; Collatz, G. J.; DeFries, R. S.; Hyer, E. J.; Prins, E. M.;

Daily and Hourly Variability in Global Fire Emissions and Consequences for Atmospheric Model Predictions of Carbon Monoxide

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mu, M.; Randerson, J. T.; van der Werf, G. R.; Giglio, L.; Kasibhatla, P.; Morton, D.; Collatz, G. J.; DeFries, R. S.; Hyer, E. J.; Prins, E. M.;

Biometric, microstructural, and high-resolution trace element studies in Crassostrea gigas of Cantabria (Bay of Biscay, Spain): Anthropogenic and seasonal influences

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Higuera-Ruiz, R.; Elorza, J.

2009-04-01

Living Crassostrea gigas oysters of different ages and sizes were collected in three estuaries of Cantabria (Bay of Biscay, Spain): San Vicente de la Barquera Estuary, Santander Bay, and Marismas de Santoña Estuary. The main objective was to determine different shell responses to variable environmental parameters. A shell morphological study, based on three biometric indices, indicates that oysters of Santander Bay have two significant shell anomalies: abnormal thickening of the right valve and loss of vital cavity volume. These shell abnormalities are related with the presence in these waters of the chemical tributyltin. In the other two estuaries, the oysters show no detectable anomalies. Four shell microstructures have been distinguished: Regular Simple Prismatic, Regular Foliated, cone-Complex Cross Foliated, and Chalk. In Santander Bay oysters, the Chalk forms a "root-type" framework, whereas in the other two estuaries it forms a more compact microstructure. It is proposed that exposure to tributyltin has produced this modification. High-spatial-resolution geochemical transects have been carried out on the Regular Foliated microstructure in the umbo region in order to evaluate the distribution of Mg, Sr, and Na. The elements analysed exhibit clear cyclic variations in San Vicente de la Barquera Estuary and Marismas de Santoña Estuary oysters, related with seasonal periods, and characterised by broad maxima during months in which the waters are warmer and have higher salinity. These patterns are buffered in Santander Bay oysters. Our results demonstrate that biometric, microstructural, and high-resolution trace element studies in oyster shells can provide information about contaminants and seasonal variations in the estuarine environment.

3-dimensional electron microscopic imaging of the zebrafish olfactory bulb and dense reconstruction of neurons.

PubMed

Wanner, Adrian A; Genoud, Christel; Friedrich, Rainer W

2016-11-08

Large-scale reconstructions of neuronal populations are critical for structural analyses of neuronal cell types and circuits. Dense reconstructions of neurons from image data require ultrastructural resolution throughout large volumes, which can be achieved by automated volumetric electron microscopy (EM) techniques. We used serial block face scanning EM (SBEM) and conductive sample embedding to acquire an image stack from an olfactory bulb (OB) of a zebrafish larva at a voxel resolution of 9.25×9.25×25 nm 3 . Skeletons of 1,022 neurons, 98% of all neurons in the OB, were reconstructed by manual tracing and efficient error correction procedures. An ergonomic software package, PyKNOSSOS, was created in Python for data browsing, neuron tracing, synapse annotation, and visualization. The reconstructions allow for detailed analyses of morphology, projections and subcellular features of different neuron types. The high density of reconstructions enables geometrical and topological analyses of the OB circuitry. Image data can be accessed and viewed through the neurodata web services (http://www.neurodata.io). Raw data and reconstructions can be visualized in PyKNOSSOS.

3-dimensional electron microscopic imaging of the zebrafish olfactory bulb and dense reconstruction of neurons

PubMed Central

Wanner, Adrian A.; Genoud, Christel; Friedrich, Rainer W.

2016-01-01

Large-scale reconstructions of neuronal populations are critical for structural analyses of neuronal cell types and circuits. Dense reconstructions of neurons from image data require ultrastructural resolution throughout large volumes, which can be achieved by automated volumetric electron microscopy (EM) techniques. We used serial block face scanning EM (SBEM) and conductive sample embedding to acquire an image stack from an olfactory bulb (OB) of a zebrafish larva at a voxel resolution of 9.25×9.25×25 nm3. Skeletons of 1,022 neurons, 98% of all neurons in the OB, were reconstructed by manual tracing and efficient error correction procedures. An ergonomic software package, PyKNOSSOS, was created in Python for data browsing, neuron tracing, synapse annotation, and visualization. The reconstructions allow for detailed analyses of morphology, projections and subcellular features of different neuron types. The high density of reconstructions enables geometrical and topological analyses of the OB circuitry. Image data can be accessed and viewed through the neurodata web services (http://www.neurodata.io). Raw data and reconstructions can be visualized in PyKNOSSOS. PMID:27824337

Compact NE213 neutron spectrometer with high energy resolution for fusion applications

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

Zimbal, A.; Reginatto, M.; Schuhmacher, H.

Neutron spectrometry is a tool for obtaining important information on the fuel ion composition, velocity distribution and temperature of fusion plasmas. A compact NE213 liquid scintillator, fully characterized at Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt, was installed and operated at the Joint European Torus (JET) during two experimental campaigns (C8-2002 and trace tritium experiment-TTE 2003). The results show that this system can operate in a real fusion experiment as a neutron (1.5 MeV

Design of a normal incidence multilayer imaging X-ray microscope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shealy, David L.; Gabardi, David R.; Hoover, Richard B.; Walker, Arthur B. C., Jr.; Lindblom, Joakim F.

Normal incidence multilayer Cassegrain X-ray telescopes were flown on the Stanford/MSFC Rocket X-ray Spectroheliograph. These instruments produced high spatial resolution images of the sun and conclusively demonstrated that doubly reflecting multilayer X-ray optical systems are feasible. The images indicated that aplanatic imaging soft X-ray/EUV microscopes should be achievable using multilayer optics technology. A doubly reflecting normal incidence multilayer imaging X-ray microscope based on the Schwarzschild configuration has been designed. The design of the microscope and the results of the optical system ray trace analysis are discussed. High resolution aplanatic imaging X-ray microscopes using normal incidence multilayer X-ray mirrors should have many important applications in advanced X-ray astronomical instrumentation, X-ray lithography, biological, biomedical, metallurgical, and laser fusion research.

Tracking Human Mobility Using WiFi Signals.

PubMed

Sapiezynski, Piotr; Stopczynski, Arkadiusz; Gatej, Radu; Lehmann, Sune

2015-01-01

We study six months of human mobility data, including WiFi and GPS traces recorded with high temporal resolution, and find that time series of WiFi scans contain a strong latent location signal. In fact, due to inherent stability and low entropy of human mobility, it is possible to assign location to WiFi access points based on a very small number of GPS samples and then use these access points as location beacons. Using just one GPS observation per day per person allows us to estimate the location of, and subsequently use, WiFi access points to account for 80% of mobility across a population. These results reveal a great opportunity for using ubiquitous WiFi routers for high-resolution outdoor positioning, but also significant privacy implications of such side-channel location tracking.

Stratospheric constituent measurements using UV solar occultation technique

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Murcray, D. G.; Gillis, J.; Goldman, A.; Kosters, J. J.

1981-01-01

The photochemistry of the stratospheric ozone layer was studied as the result of predictions that trace amounts of pollutants can significantly affect the layer. One of the key species in the determination of the effects of these pollutants is the OH radical. A balloon flight was made to determine whether data on atmospheric OH could be obtained from lower resolution solar spectra obtained from high altitude during sunset.

Measurement of HO2 and other trace gases in the stratosphere using a high resolution far-infrared spectrometer at 28 KM

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Traub, Wesley A.; Chance, Kelly V.

1988-01-01

The major events and results to date of the ongoing program of measuring stratospheric composition by the technique of far-infrared Fourier-transform spectroscopy from a balloon-borne platform are reviewed. The highlights of this period were the two balloon flight campaigns which were performed at Palestine, Texas, both of which produced large amounts of scientifically useful data.

Determination of trace concentrations of chlorine in aqueous solutions by high-resolution continuum source graphite furnace molecular absorption spectrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Machyňák, Ľubomír; Čacho, František; Němeček, Martin; Beinrohr, Ernest

2016-11-01

Trace concentrations of total chlorine were determined by means of molecular absorption of indium mono-chloride (InCl) at 267.217 nm using high-resolution continuum source graphite furnace molecular absorption spectrometry. The effects of chemical modifiers and the amount of In on the sensitivity and accuracy were investigated. The optimum pyrolysis and vaporization temperatures were 600 °C and 1400 °C, respectively. The limit of detection and characteristic mass were found to be 0.10 ng and 0.21 ng, respectively. Potential non-spectral and spectral interferences were tested for various metals and non-metals at concentrations up to 50 mg L- 1 and for phosphoric, sulphuric and nitric acids. No spectral interferences were observed. Significant non-spectral interferences were observed with F, Br, and I at concentrations higher than 1 mg L- 1, 5 mg L- 1 and 25 mg L- 1, respectively, which is probably caused by formation of competitive indium halogen molecules. Higher concentrations of mineral acids depressed the signal owing to the formation of volatile HCl. The calibration curve was linear in the range between 0.3 and 10 ng with a correlation coefficient of R = 0.993. The elaborated method was used for the chlorine determination in various waters and a drug sample.

High-resolution multi-channel seismic images of the Queen Charlotte Fault system offshore southeastern Alaska

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miller, N. C.; Brothers, D. S.; Kluesner, J.; Balster-Gee, A.; Ten Brink, U. S.; Andrews, B. D.; Haeussler, P. J.; Watt, J. T.; Dartnell, P.; East, A. E.

2016-12-01

We present high-resolution multi-channel seismic (MCS) images of fault structure and sedimentary stratigraphy along the southeastern Alaska margin, where the northern Queen Charlotte Fault (QCF) cuts the shelf-edge and slope. The QCF is a dominantly strike slip system that forms the boundary between the Pacific (PA) and North American (NA) plates offshore western Canada and southeastern Alaska. The data were collected using a 64 channel, 200 m digital streamer and a 0.75-3 kJ sparker source aboard the R/V Norseman in August 2016. The survey was designed to cross a seafloor fault trace recently imaged by multibeam sonar (see adjacent poster by Brothers et al.) and to extend the subsurface information landward and seaward from the fault. Analysis of these MCS and multibeam data focus on addressing key questions that have significant implications for the kinematic and geodynamic history of the fault, including: Is the imaged surface fault in multibeam sonar the only recently-active fault trace? What is the shallow fault zone width and structure, is the internal structure of the recently-discovered pull-apart basin a dynamically developing structure? How does sediment thickness vary along the margin and how does this variation affect the fault expression? Can previous glacial sequences be identified in the stratigraphy?

Recognition of psychotherapy effectiveness: the APA resolution.

PubMed

Campbell, Linda F; Norcross, John C; Vasquez, Melba J T; Kaslow, Nadine J

2013-03-01

In August 2012, the American Psychological Association (APA) Council of Representatives voted overwhelmingly to adopt as APA policy a Resolution on the Recognition of Psychotherapy Effectiveness. This invited article traces the origins and intentions of that resolution and its protracted journey through the APA governance labyrinth. We summarize the planned dissemination and projected results of the resolution and identify several lessons learned through the entire process.

High Working Memory Capacity Predicts Less Retrieval Induced Forgetting

PubMed Central

Mall, Jonathan T.; Morey, Candice C.

2013-01-01

Background Working Memory Capacity (WMC) is thought to be related to executive control and focused memory search abilities. These two hypotheses make contrasting predictions regarding the effects of retrieval on forgetting. Executive control during memory retrieval is believed to lead to retrieval induced forgetting (RIFO) because inhibition of competing memory traces during retrieval renders them temporarily less accessible. According to this suggestion, superior executive control should increase RIFO. Alternatively, superior focused search abilities could diminish RIFO, because delimiting the search set reduces the amount of competition between traces and thus the need for inhibition. Some evidence suggests that high WMC is related to more RIFO, which is inconsistent with the focused search hypothesis. Methodology/Principal Findings Using the RIFO paradigm, we created distinct and overlapping categories to manipulate the amount of competition between them. This overlap increased competition between some categories while exclusive use of weak exemplars ensured negligible effects of output interference and integration. Low WMC individuals exhibited RIFO within and between overlapping categories, indicating the effect of resolving competition during retrieval. High WMC individuals only exhibited between-category RIFO, suggesting they experienced reduced competition resolution demands. Low WMC Individuals exhibited the strongest RIFO and no retrieval benefits when interference resolution demands were high. Conclusions/Significance Our findings qualify the inhibitory explanation for RIFO by incorporating the focused search hypothesis for materials that are likely to pose extraordinary challenges at retrieval. The results highlight the importance of considering individual differences in retrieval-induced effects and qualify existing models of these effects. PMID:23326359

High working memory capacity predicts less retrieval induced forgetting.

PubMed

Mall, Jonathan T; Morey, Candice C

2013-01-01

Working Memory Capacity (WMC) is thought to be related to executive control and focused memory search abilities. These two hypotheses make contrasting predictions regarding the effects of retrieval on forgetting. Executive control during memory retrieval is believed to lead to retrieval induced forgetting (RIFO) because inhibition of competing memory traces during retrieval renders them temporarily less accessible. According to this suggestion, superior executive control should increase RIFO. Alternatively, superior focused search abilities could diminish RIFO, because delimiting the search set reduces the amount of competition between traces and thus the need for inhibition. Some evidence suggests that high WMC is related to more RIFO, which is inconsistent with the focused search hypothesis. Using the RIFO paradigm, we created distinct and overlapping categories to manipulate the amount of competition between them. This overlap increased competition between some categories while exclusive use of weak exemplars ensured negligible effects of output interference and integration. Low WMC individuals exhibited RIFO within and between overlapping categories, indicating the effect of resolving competition during retrieval. High WMC individuals only exhibited between-category RIFO, suggesting they experienced reduced competition resolution demands. Low WMC Individuals exhibited the strongest RIFO and no retrieval benefits when interference resolution demands were high. Our findings qualify the inhibitory explanation for RIFO by incorporating the focused search hypothesis for materials that are likely to pose extraordinary challenges at retrieval. The results highlight the importance of considering individual differences in retrieval-induced effects and qualify existing models of these effects.

The high throughput virtual slit enables compact, inexpensive Raman spectral imagers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gooding, Edward; Deutsch, Erik R.; Huehnerhoff, Joseph; Hajian, Arsen R.

2018-02-01

Raman spectral imaging is increasingly becoming the tool of choice for field-based applications such as threat, narcotics and hazmat detection; air, soil and water quality monitoring; and material ID. Conventional fiber-coupled point source Raman spectrometers effectively interrogate a small sample area and identify bulk samples via spectral library matching. However, these devices are very slow at mapping over macroscopic areas. In addition, the spatial averaging performed by instruments that collect binned spectra, particularly when used in combination with orbital raster scanning, tends to dilute the spectra of trace particles in a mixture. Our design, employing free space line illumination combined with area imaging, reveals both the spectral and spatial content of heterogeneous mixtures. This approach is well suited to applications such as detecting explosives and narcotics trace particle detection in fingerprints. The patented High Throughput Virtual Slit1 is an innovative optical design that enables compact, inexpensive handheld Raman spectral imagers. HTVS-based instruments achieve significantly higher spectral resolution than can be obtained with conventional designs of the same size. Alternatively, they can be used to build instruments with comparable resolution to large spectrometers, but substantially smaller size, weight and unit cost, all while maintaining high sensitivity. When used in combination with laser line imaging, this design eliminates sample photobleaching and unwanted photochemistry while greatly enhancing mapping speed, all with high selectivity and sensitivity. We will present spectral image data and discuss applications that are made possible by low cost HTVS-enabled instruments.

(F)UV Spectroscopy of K648: Abundance Determination of Trace Elements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mohamad-Yob, S. J.; Ziegler, M.; Rauch, T.; Werner, K.

2010-11-01

We present preliminary results of an ongoing spectral analysis of K 648, the central star of the planetary nebula Ps 1, based on high resolution FUV spectra. K 648, in M 15 is one of only four known PNe in globular clusters. The formation of this post-AGB object in a globular cluster is still unclear. Our aim is to determine Teff, log g, and the abundances of trace elements, in order to improve our understanding of post-AGB evolution of extremely metal-poor stars, especially PN formation in globular clusters. We analyzed FUSE, HST/STIS, and HST/FOS observations. A grid of stellar model atmospheres was calculated using the Tübingen NLTE Model Atmosphere Package (TMAP).

Stratospheric and mesospheric pressure-temperature profiles from rotational analysis of CO2 lines in atmospheric trace molecule spectroscopy/ATLAS 1 infrared solar occultation spectra

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stiller, G. P.; Gunson, M. R.; Lowes, L. L.; Abrams, M. C.; Raper, O. F.; Farmer, C. B.; Zander, R.; Rinsland, C. P.

1995-01-01

A simple, classical, and expedient method for the retrieval of atmospheric pressure-temperature profiles has been applied to the high-resolution infrared solar absorption spectra obtained with the atmospheric trace molecule spectroscopy (ATMOS) instrument. The basis for this method is a rotational analysis of retrieved apparent abundances from CO2 rovibrational absorption lines, employing existing constituent concentration retrieval software used in the analysis of data returned by ATMOS. Pressure-temperature profiles derived from spectra acquired during the ATLAS 1 space shuttle mission of March-April 1992 are quantitatively evaluated and compared with climatological and meteorological data as a means of assessing the validity of this approach.

Parts per Million Powder X-ray Diffraction

DOE PAGES

Newman, Justin A.; Schmitt, Paul D.; Toth, Scott J.; ...

2015-10-14

Here in this paper we demonstrate the use of second harmonic generation (SHG) microscopy-guided synchrotron powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) for the detection of trace crystalline active pharmaceutical ingredients in a common polymer blend. The combined instrument is capable of detecting 100 ppm crystalline ritonavir in an amorphous hydroxypropyl methylcellulose matrix with a high signal-to-noise ratio (>5000). The high spatial resolution afforded by SHG microscopy allows for the use of a minibeam collimator to reduce the total volume of material probed by synchrotron PXRD. The reduction in probed volume results in reduced background from amorphous material. The ability to detect lowmore » crystalline loading has the potential to improve measurements in the formulation pipeline for pharmaceutical solid dispersions, for which even trace quantities of crystalline active ingredients can negatively impact the stability and bioavailability of the final drug product.« less

SYMPOSIUM ON MULTIMODALITY CARDIOVASCULAR MOLECULAR IMAGING IMAGING TECHNOLOGY - PART 2

PubMed Central

de Kemp, Robert A.; Epstein, Frederick H.; Catana, Ciprian; Tsui, Benjamin M.W.; Ritman, Erik L.

2013-01-01

Rationale The ability to trace or identify specific molecules within a specific anatomic location provides insight into metabolic pathways, tissue components and tracing of solute transport mechanisms. With the increasing use of small animals for research such imaging must have sufficiently high spatial resolution to allow anatomic localization as well as sufficient specificity and sensitivity to provide an accurate description of the molecular distribution and concentration. Methods Imaging methods based on electromagnetic radiation, such as PET, SPECT, MRI and CT, are increasingly applicable due to recent advances in novel scanner hardware, image reconstruction software and availability of novel molecules which have enhanced sensitivity in these methodologies. Results Micro-PET has been advanced by development of detector arrays that provide higher resolution and positron emitting elements that allow new molecular tracers to be labeled. Micro-MRI has been improved in terms of spatial resolution and sensitivity by increased magnet field strength and development of special purpose coils and associated scan protocols. Of particular interest is the associated ability to image local mechanical function and solute transport processes which can be directly related to the molecular information. This is further strengthened by the synergistic integration of the PET with MRI. Micro-SPECT has been improved by use of coded aperture imaging approaches as well as image reconstruction algorithms which can better deal with the photon limited scan data. The limited spatial resolution can be partially overcome by integrating the SPECT with CT. Micro-CT by itself provides exquisite spatial resolution of anatomy, but recent developments of high spatial resolution photon counting and spectrally-sensitive imaging arrays, combined with x-ray optical devices, have promise for actual molecular identification by virtue of the chemical bond lengths of molecules, especially of bio-polymers. Conclusion With the increasing use of small animals for evaluating new clinical imaging techniques as well as providing increased insights into patho-physiological phenomena, the availability of improved detection systems, scanning protocols and associated software, the repertoire of molecular imaging is greatly increased in sensitivity and specificity. PMID:20457793

Three-dimensional plant architecture and sunlit-shaded patterns: a stochastic model of light dynamics in canopies.

PubMed

Retkute, Renata; Townsend, Alexandra J; Murchie, Erik H; Jensen, Oliver E; Preston, Simon P

2018-05-25

Diurnal changes in solar position and intensity combined with the structural complexity of plant architecture result in highly variable and dynamic light patterns within the plant canopy. This affects productivity through the complex ways that photosynthesis responds to changes in light intensity. Current methods to characterize light dynamics, such as ray-tracing, are able to produce data with excellent spatio-temporal resolution but are computationally intensive and the resulting data are complex and high-dimensional. This necessitates development of more economical models for summarizing the data and for simulating realistic light patterns over the course of a day. High-resolution reconstructions of field-grown plants are assembled in various configurations to form canopies, and a forward ray-tracing algorithm is applied to the canopies to compute light dynamics at high (1 min) temporal resolution. From the ray-tracer output, the sunlit or shaded state for each patch on the plants is determined, and these data are used to develop a novel stochastic model for the sunlit-shaded patterns. The model is designed to be straightforward to fit to data using maximum likelihood estimation, and fast to simulate from. For a wide range of contrasting 3-D canopies, the stochastic model is able to summarize, and replicate in simulations, key features of the light dynamics. When light patterns simulated from the stochastic model are used as input to a model of photoinhibition, the predicted reduction in carbon gain is similar to that from calculations based on the (extremely costly) ray-tracer data. The model provides a way to summarize highly complex data in a small number of parameters, and a cost-effective way to simulate realistic light patterns. Simulations from the model will be particularly useful for feeding into larger-scale photosynthesis models for calculating how light dynamics affects the photosynthetic productivity of canopies.

Elevated gas flux and trace metal degassing from the 2014-2015 fissure eruption at the Bárðarbunga volcanic system, Iceland

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gauthier, Pierre-Jean; Sigmarsson, Olgeir; Gouhier, Mathieu; Haddadi, Baptiste; Moune, Séverine

2016-03-01

The 2014 Bárðarbunga rifting event in Iceland resulted in a 6-month long eruption at Holuhraun. This eruption was characterized by high lava discharge rate and significant gas emission. The SO2 flux for the first 3 months was measured with satellite sensors and the petrologic method. High-resolution time series of the satellite data give 1200 kg/s that concurs with 1050 kg/s obtained from melt inclusion minus degassed lava sulfur contents scaled to the mass of magma produced. A high-purity gas sample, with elevated S/Cl due to limited chlorine degassing, reveals a similar degassing pattern of trace metals as observed at Kīlauea (Hawai'i) and Erta Ale (Ethiopia). This suggests a common degassing mechanism at mantle plume-related volcanoes. The trace metal fluxes, calculated from trace element to sulfur ratios in the gas sample and scaled to the sulfur dioxide flux, are 1-2 orders of magnitude stronger at Holuhraun than Kīlauea and Erta Ale. In contrast, volcanoes at convergent margins (Etna and Stromboli, Italy) have 1-2 orders of magnitude higher trace element fluxes, most likely caused by abundant chlorine degassing. This emphasizes the importance of metal degassing as chlorine species. Short-lived disequilibria between radon daughters, 210Pb-210Bi-210Po measured in the gas, suggest degassing of a continuously replenished magma batch beneath the eruption site. Earlier and deep degassing phase of carbon dioxide and polonium is inferred from low (210Po/210Pb) in the gas, consistent with magma transfer rate of 0.75 m/s.

The current role of high-resolution mass spectrometry in food analysis.

PubMed

Kaufmann, Anton

2012-05-01

High-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS), which is used for residue analysis in food, has gained wider acceptance in the last few years. This development is due to the availability of more rugged, sensitive, and selective instrumentation. The benefits provided by HRMS over classical unit-mass-resolution tandem mass spectrometry are considerable. These benefits include the collection of full-scan spectra, which provides greater insight into the composition of a sample. Consequently, the analyst has the freedom to measure compounds without previous compound-specific tuning, the possibility of retrospective data analysis, and the capability of performing structural elucidations of unknown or suspected compounds. HRMS strongly competes with classical tandem mass spectrometry in the field of quantitative multiresidue methods (e.g., pesticides and veterinary drugs). It is one of the most promising tools when moving towards nontargeted approaches. Certain hardware and software issues still have to be addressed by the instrument manufacturers for it to dislodge tandem mass spectrometry from its position as the standard trace analysis tool.

Monochromatic X-ray-induced thermal effect on four-reflection “nested” meV-monochromators: dynamical diffraction theory and finite-element analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Ling-Fei; Gao, Li-Dan; Li, Zhen-Jie; Wang, Shan-Feng; Sheng, Wei-Fan; Liu, Peng; Xu, Wei

2015-09-01

The high energy resolution monochromator (HRM) is widely used in inelastic scattering programs to detect phonons with energy resolution, down to the meV level. Although the large amount of heat from insertion devices can be reduced by a high heat-load monochromator, the unbalanced heat load on the inner pair of crystals in a nested HRM can affect its overall performance. Here, a theoretical analysis of the unbalanced heat load using dynamical diffraction theory and finite element analysis is presented. By utilizing the ray-tracing method, the performance of different HRM nesting configurations is simulated. It is suggested that the heat balance ratio, energy resolution, and overall spectral transmission efficiency are the figures of merit for evaluating the performance of nested HRMs. Although the present study is mainly focused on nested HRMs working at 57Fe nuclear resonant energy at 14.4 keV, it is feasible to extend this to other nested HRMs working at different energies.

X-ray fluorescence beamline at the LNLS: Current instrumentation and future developments (abstract)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pérez, C. A.; Bueno, M. I. S.; Neuenshwander, R. T.; Sánchez, H. J.; Tolentino, H.

2002-03-01

The x-ray fluorescence (XRF) beamline, constructed at the Brazilian National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory (LNLS-http://www.lnls.br), has been operating for the external users since August of 1998 (C. A. Pérez et al., Proc. of the European Conference on Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectrometry, Bologna, Italy, 1998, pp. 125-129). The synchrotron source for this beamline is the D09B (15°) dipole magnet of the LNLS storage ring. Two main experimental setups are mounted at the XRF beamline. One consists of a high vacuum chamber adapted to carry out experiments in grazing excitation conditions. This allows chemical trace and ultratrace element determination on several samples, mainly coming from environmental and biological sciences. Another setup consists of an experimental station, operated in air, in which x-ray fluorescence analysis with spatial resolution can be done. This station is equipped with a fine conical capillary, capable of achieving 20 μm spatial resolution, and with an optical microscope in order to select the region of interest on the sample surface. In this work, the main characteristic of the beamline, experimental stations as well as the description of some new experimental facilities will be given. Future development in the instrumentation focuses on an appropriate x-ray optic to be able to carry out chemical trace analysis of light elements using the total x-ray fluorescence technique. Also, chemical mapping below 10 μm spatial resolution, while keeping high flux of photon on the sample, will be achieved by using the Kirkpatrick-Baez x-ray microfocusing optic.

Trace element concentrations in liver of 16 species of cetaceans stranded on Pacific Islands from 1997 through 2013

PubMed Central

Hansen, Angela M. K.; Bryan, Colleen E.; West, Kristi; Jensen, Brenda A.

2016-01-01

The impacts of anthropogenic contaminants on marine ecosystems are a concern worldwide. Anthropogenic activities can enrich trace elements in marine biota to concentrations that may negatively impact organism health. Exposure to elevated concentrations of trace elements is considered a contributing factor in marine mammal population declines. Hawai'i is an increasingly important geographic location for global monitoring, yet trace element concentrations have not been quantified in Hawaiian cetaceans, and there is little trace element data for Pacific cetaceans. This study measured trace elements (Cr, Mn, Cu, Zn, As, Se, Sr, Cd, Sn, Hg, and Pb) in liver of 16 species of cetaceans that stranded on U.S. Pacific Islands from 1997–2013, using high resolution inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (HR-ICP-MS) (n = 31), and direct mercury analysis atomic absorption spectrometry (DMA-AAS) (n = 43). Concentration ranges (µg/g wet mass fraction) for non-essential trace elements such as Cd (0.0031–58.93) and Hg (0.0062–1571.75) were much greater than essential trace elements such as Mn (0.590–17.31) and Zn (14.72–245.38). Differences were found among age classes in Cu, Zn, Hg, and Se concentrations. The highest concentrations of Se, Cd, Sn, Hg, and Pb were found in one adult female false killer whale (Pseudorca crassidens) at concentrations that are known to affect health in marine mammals. The results of this study establish initial trace element concentration ranges for Pacific cetaceans in the Hawaiian Islands region, provide insights into contaminant exposure of these marine mammals, and contribute to a greater understanding of anthropogenic impacts in the Pacific Ocean. PMID:26283019

Trace Element Concentrations in Liver of 16 Species of Cetaceans Stranded on Pacific Islands from 1997 through 2013.

PubMed

Hansen, Angela M K; Bryan, Colleen E; West, Kristi; Jensen, Brenda A

2016-01-01

The impacts of anthropogenic contaminants on marine ecosystems are a concern worldwide. Anthropogenic activities can enrich trace elements in marine biota to concentrations that may negatively impact organism health. Exposure to elevated concentrations of trace elements is considered a contributing factor in marine mammal population declines. Hawai'i is an increasingly important geographic location for global monitoring, yet trace element concentrations have not been quantified in Hawaiian cetaceans, and there is little trace element data for Pacific cetaceans. This study measured trace elements (Cr, Mn, Cu, Zn, As, Se, Sr, Cd, Sn, Hg, and Pb) in liver of 16 species of cetaceans that stranded on U.S. Pacific Islands from 1997 to 2013, using high resolution inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (HR-ICP-MS) (n = 31), and direct mercury analysis atomic absorption spectrometry (DMA-AAS) (n = 43). Concentration ranges (μg/g wet mass fraction) for non-essential trace elements, such as Cd (0.0031-58.93) and Hg (0.0062-1571.75) were much greater than essential trace elements, such as Mn (0.590-17.31) and Zn (14.72-245.38). Differences were found among age classes in Cu, Zn, Hg, and Se concentrations. The highest concentrations of Se, Cd, Sn, Hg, and Pb were found in one adult female false killer whale (Pseudorca crassidens) at concentrations that are known to affect health in marine mammals. The results of this study establish initial trace element concentration ranges for Pacific cetaceans in the Hawaiian Islands region, provide insights into contaminant exposure of these marine mammals, and contribute to a greater understanding of anthropogenic impacts in the Pacific Ocean.

Selective extraction of halogenated compounds from data measured by comprehensive multidimensional gas chromatography/high resolution time-of-flight mass spectrometry for non-target analysis of environmental and biological samples.

PubMed

Hashimoto, Shunji; Zushi, Yasuyuki; Fushimi, Akihiro; Takazawa, Yoshikatsu; Tanabe, Kiyoshi; Shibata, Yasuyuki

2013-03-22

We developed a method that selectively extracts a subset from comprehensive 2D gas chromatography (GC×GC) and high-resolution time-of-flight mass spectrometry (HRTOFMS) data to detect and identify trace levels of organohalogens. The data were obtained by measuring several environmental and biological samples, namely fly ash, soil, sediment, the atmosphere, and human urine. For global analysis, some samples were measured without purification. By using our novel software, the mass spectra of organochlorines or organobromines were then extracted into a data subset under high mass accuracy conditions that were approximately equivalent to a mass resolution of 6000 for some samples. Mass defect filtering as pre-screening for the data extraction was very effective in removing the mass spectra of hydrocarbons. Those results showed that data obtained with HRTOFMS are valuable for global analysis of organohalogens, and probably of other compounds if specific data extraction methods can be devised. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Surface rupture and vertical deformation associated with 20 May 2016 M6 Petermann Ranges earthquake, Northern Territory, Australia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gold, Ryan; Clark, Dan; King, Tamarah; Quigley, Mark

2017-04-01

Surface-rupturing earthquakes in stable continental regions (SCRs) occur infrequently, though when they occur in heavily populated regions the damage and loss of life can be severe (e.g., 2001 Bhuj earthquake). Quantifying the surface-rupture characteristics of these low-probability events is therefore important, both to improve understanding of the on- and off-fault deformation field near the rupture trace and to provide additional constraints on earthquake magnitude to rupture length and displacement, which are critical inputs for seismic hazard calculations. This investigation focuses on the 24 August 2016 M6.0 Petermann Ranges earthquake, Northern Territory, Australia. We use 0.3-0.5 m high-resolution optical Worldview satellite imagery to map the trace of the surface rupture associated with the earthquake. From our mapping, we are able to trace the rupture over a length of 20 km, trending NW, and exhibiting apparent north-side-up motion. To quantify the magnitude of vertical surface deformation, we use stereo Worldview images processed using NASA Ames Stereo Pipeline software to generate pre- and post-earthquake digital terrain models with a spatial resolution of 1.5 to 2 m. The surface scarp is apparent in much of the post-event digital terrain model. Initial efforts to difference the pre- and post-event digital terrain models yield noisy results, though we detect vertical deformation of 0.2 to 0.6 m over length scales of 100 m to 1 km from the mapped trace of the rupture. Ongoing efforts to remove ramps and perform spatial smoothing will improve our understanding of the extent and pattern of vertical deformation. Additionally, we will compare our results with InSAR and field measurements obtained following the earthquake.

Thin Shell, Segmented X-Ray Mirrors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Petre, Robert

2010-01-01

Thin foil mirrors were introduced as a means of achieving high throughput in an X-ray astronomical imaging system in applications for which high angular resolution were not necessary. Since their introduction, their high filling factor, modest mass, relative ease of construction, and modest cost have led to their use in numerous X-ray observatories, including the Broad Band X-ray Telescope, ASCA, and Suzaku. The introduction of key innovations, including epoxy replicated surfaces, multilayer coatings, and glass mirror substrates, has led to performance improvements, and in their becoming widely used for X-ray astronomical imaging at energies above 10 keV. The use of glass substrates has also led to substantial improvement in angular resolution, and thus their incorporation into the NASA concept for the International X-ray Observatory with a planned 3 in diameter aperture. This paper traces the development of foil mirrors from their inception in the 1970's through their current and anticipated future applications.

Exploring the Behaviour of Emerging Contaminants in the Water Cycle using the Capabilities of High Resolution Mass Spectrometry.

PubMed

Hollender, Juliane; Bourgin, Marc; Fenner, Kathrin B; Longrée, Philipp; Mcardell, Christa S; Moschet, Christoph; Ruff, Matthias; Schymanski, Emma L; Singer, Heinz P

2014-11-01

To characterize a broad range of organic contaminants and their transformation products (TPs) as well as their loads, input pathways and fate in the water cycle, the Department of Environmental Chemistry (Uchem) at Eawag applies and develops high-performance liquid chromatography (LC) methods combined with high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry (HRMS/MS). In this article, the background and state-of-the-art of LC-HRMS/MS for detection of i) known targets, ii) suspected compounds like TPs, and iii) unknown emerging compounds are introduced briefly. Examples for each approach are taken from recent research projects conducted within the department. These include the detection of trace organic contaminants and their TPs in wastewater, pesticides and their TPs in surface water, identification of new TPs in laboratory degradation studies and ozonation experiments and finally the screening for unknown compounds in the catchment of the river Rhine.

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

Özer, Çağlar, E-mail: caglar.ozer@deu.edu.tr; Dokuz Eylul University, The Graduate School of Natural and Applied Sciences, Department of Geophysical Engineering, Izmir; Polat, Orhan, E-mail: orhan.polat@deu.edu.tr

In this study; we investigated velocity structure of Izmir and surroundings. We used local earthquake data which was recorded by different type of instruments and obtained high resolution 3D sections. We selected more than 400 earthquakes which were occurred between 2010 and 2013. Examined tomographic sections especially in Izmir along coastal areas (Mavisehir-Inciraltı); revealed the low speed zone. Along this low-speed zone; it is consistent with the results obtained from the stratigraphic section and surface geology. While; low velocity zones are associated with faults and water content; high velocity is related to magmatic rocks or compact rocks. Along Karsıyaka, Seferihisar,more » Orhanlı, Izmir fault zones; low P velocity was observed. When examined higher elevations of the topography; which are composed of soured magmatic material is dominated by high P velocity. In all horizontal sections; resolution decreasing with increasing depth. The reason for this; the reduction of earthquakes causes ray tracing problems.« less

Highly-resolved Modeling of Emissions and Concentrations of Carbon Monoxide, Carbon Dioxide, Nitrogen Oxides, and Fine Particulate Matter in Salt Lake City, Utah

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mendoza, D. L.; Lin, J. C.; Mitchell, L.; Ehleringer, J. R.

2014-12-01

Accurate, high-resolution data on air pollutant emissions and concentrations are needed to understand human exposures and for both policy and pollutant management purposes. An important step in this process is also quantification of uncertainties. We present a spatially explicit and highly resolved emissions inventory for Salt Lake County, Utah, and trace gas concentration estimates for carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx) and fine particles (PM2.5) within Salt Lake City. We assess the validity of this approach by comparing measured concentrations against simulated values derived from combining the emissions inventory with an atmospheric model. The emissions inventory for the criteria pollutants was constructed using the 2011 National Emissions Inventory (NEI). The spatial and temporal allocation methods from the Emission Modeling Clearinghouse data set are used to downscale the NEI data from annual to hourly scales and from county-level to 500 m x 500 m resolution. Onroad mobile source emissions were estimated by combining a bottom-up emissions calculation approach for large roadway links with a top-down spatial allocation approach for other roadways. Vehicle activity data for road links were derived from automatic traffic responder data. The emissions inventory for CO2 was obtained from the Hestia emissions data product at an hourly, building, facility, and road link resolution. The AERMOD and CALPUFF dispersion models were used to transport emissions and estimate air pollutant concentrations at an hourly temporal and 500 m x 500 m spatial resolution. Modeled results were compared against measurements from a mobile lab equipped with trace gas measurement equipment traveling on pre-determined routes in the Salt Lake City area. The comparison between both approaches to concentration estimation highlights spatial locations and hours of high variability/uncertainty. Results presented here will inform understanding of variability and uncertainty in emissions and concentrations to better inform future policy. This work will also facilitate the development of a systematic approach to incorporate measurement data and models to better inform estimates of pollutant concentrations that determine the extent to which urban populations are exposed to adverse air quality.

Metal Deposition Along the Peru Margin Since the Last Glacial Maximum: Evidence For Regime Change at \\sim 6ka

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tierney, J.; Cleaveland, L.; Herbert, T.; Altabet, M.

2004-12-01

The Peru Margin upwelling zone plays a key role in regulating marine biogeochemical cycles, particularly the fate of nitrate. High biological productivity and low oxygen waters fed into the oxygen minimum zone result in intense denitrification in the modern system, the consequences of which are global in nature. It has been very difficult, however, to study the paleoclimatic history of this region because of the poor preservation of carbonate in Peru Margin sediments. Here we present records of trace metal accumulation from two cores located in the heart of the suboxic zone off the central Peru coast. Chronology comes from multiple AMS 14C dates on the alkenone fraction of the sediment, as well as correlation using major features of the \\delta 15N record in each core. ODP Site 1228 provides a high resolution, continuous sediment record from the Recent to about 14ka, while gravity core W7706-41k extends the record to the Last Glacial Maximum. Both cores were sampled at a 100 yr resolution, then analyzed for % N, \\delta 15N, alkenones, and trace metal concentration. Analysis of redox-sensitive metals (Mo and V) alongside metals associated with changes in productivity (Ni and Zn) provides perspective on the evolution of the upwelling system and distinguishes the two major factors controlling the intensity of the oxygen minimum zone. The trace metal record exhibits a notable increase in the intensity and variability of low oxygen waters and productivity beginning around 6ka and extending to the present. Within this most recent 6ka interval, the data suggest fluctuations in oxygenation and productivity occur on 1000 yr timescales. Our core records, therefore, suggest that the Peru Margin upwelling system strengthened significantly during the mid to late Holocene.

Probing the core of Cepheus A - Millimeter and submillimeter observations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moriarty-Schieven, G. H.; Snell, R. L.; Hughes, V. A.

1991-06-01

Moderate and high angular resolution (40-7 arcsec) maps are presented of the core of the Cepheus A star-forming region using CS J = 3-2 and J = 7-6 emission, which traces the dense gas component of the cloud core, and using far-infrared (450 and 800 microns) continuum emission tracing the warm dust component. Three regimes in the core are traced by these observations: (1) a small (about 0.14 pc), nearly circular central core of high density (1-10 x 10 to the 6th/cu cm) and temperature (30-100 K) containing at least 25 percent of the mass and which contains the active early-type star formation; (2) an extended (0.5 x 0.25 pc), NE-SW oriented core of mass 200-300 solar masses, temperature 30-40 K, and average density nH2 of about 10 to the 5th/cu cm and which, together with the central core, contains 60-80 percent of the total core mass; and (3) an extended core envelope of dimensions 0.5 x 0.85 pc oriented primarily north-south, and a lower density. The velocity structure of the core suggests that it is being disrupted by the high-velocity winds driving the molecular outflow and is not due to a rotating circumstellar disk.

Detection of trace ink compounds in erased handwritings using electrospray-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Kao, Yi-Ying; Cheng, Sy-Chyi; Cheng, Chu-Nian; Shiea, Jentaie; Ho, Hsiu-O

2014-06-01

Writings made with erasable pens on paper surfaces can either be rubbed off with an eraser or rendered invisible by changing the temperature of the ink. However, trace ink compounds still remain in the paper fibers even after rubbing or rendering. The detection of these ink compounds from erased handwritings will be helpful in knowing the written history of the paper. In this study, electrospray-assisted laser desorption ionization/mass spectrometry was used to characterize trace ink compounds remaining in visible and invisible ink lines. The ink compounds were desorbed from the paper surface by irradiating the handwritings with a pulsed laser beam; the desorbed analytes were subsequently ionized in an electrospray plume and detected by a quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry mass analyzer. Because of the high spatial resolution of the laser beam, electrospray-assisted laser desorption ionization/mass spectrometry analysis resulted in minimal damage to the sample documents. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

DS-ARP: a new detection scheme for ARP spoofing attacks based on routing trace for ubiquitous environments.

PubMed

Song, Min Su; Lee, Jae Dong; Jeong, Young-Sik; Jeong, Hwa-Young; Park, Jong Hyuk

2014-01-01

Despite the convenience, ubiquitous computing suffers from many threats and security risks. Security considerations in the ubiquitous network are required to create enriched and more secure ubiquitous environments. The address resolution protocol (ARP) is a protocol used to identify the IP address and the physical address of the associated network card. ARP is designed to work without problems in general environments. However, since it does not include security measures against malicious attacks, in its design, an attacker can impersonate another host using ARP spoofing or access important information. In this paper, we propose a new detection scheme for ARP spoofing attacks using a routing trace, which can be used to protect the internal network. Tracing routing can find the change of network movement path. The proposed scheme provides high constancy and compatibility because it does not alter the ARP protocol. In addition, it is simple and stable, as it does not use a complex algorithm or impose extra load on the computer system.

Quantitative Tracking of Combinatorially Engineered Populations with Multiplexed Binary Assemblies.

PubMed

Zeitoun, Ramsey I; Pines, Gur; Grau, Willliam C; Gill, Ryan T

2017-04-21

Advances in synthetic biology and genomics have enabled full-scale genome engineering efforts on laboratory time scales. However, the absence of sufficient approaches for mapping engineered genomes at system-wide scales onto performance has limited the adoption of more sophisticated algorithms for engineering complex biological systems. Here we report on the development and application of a robust approach to quantitatively map combinatorially engineered populations at scales up to several dozen target sites. This approach works by assembling genome engineered sites with cell-specific barcodes into a format compatible with high-throughput sequencing technologies. This approach, called barcoded-TRACE (bTRACE) was applied to assess E. coli populations engineered by recursive multiplex recombineering across both 6-target sites and 31-target sites. The 31-target library was then tracked throughout growth selections in the presence and absence of isopentenol (a potential next-generation biofuel). We also use the resolution of bTRACE to compare the influence of technical and biological noise on genome engineering efforts.

DS-ARP: A New Detection Scheme for ARP Spoofing Attacks Based on Routing Trace for Ubiquitous Environments

PubMed Central

Song, Min Su; Lee, Jae Dong; Jeong, Hwa-Young; Park, Jong Hyuk

2014-01-01

Despite the convenience, ubiquitous computing suffers from many threats and security risks. Security considerations in the ubiquitous network are required to create enriched and more secure ubiquitous environments. The address resolution protocol (ARP) is a protocol used to identify the IP address and the physical address of the associated network card. ARP is designed to work without problems in general environments. However, since it does not include security measures against malicious attacks, in its design, an attacker can impersonate another host using ARP spoofing or access important information. In this paper, we propose a new detection scheme for ARP spoofing attacks using a routing trace, which can be used to protect the internal network. Tracing routing can find the change of network movement path. The proposed scheme provides high constancy and compatibility because it does not alter the ARP protocol. In addition, it is simple and stable, as it does not use a complex algorithm or impose extra load on the computer system. PMID:25243205

Photo-vibrational sensing of trace chemicals and explosives by long-distance differential laser Doppler vibrometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fu, Yu; Liu, Huan; Hu, Qi; Xie, Jiecheng

2017-05-01

Photoacoustic/photothermal spectroscopy is an established technique for trace detection of chemicals and explosives. Normally high-sensitive microphone or PZT sensor is used to detect the signal in photoacoustic cell. In recent years, laser Doppler vibrometer (LDV) is proposed to remote-sense photoacoustic signal on various substrates. It is a highsensitivity sensor with a displacement resolution of <10pm. In this research, the photoacoustic effect of various chemicals and explosives is excited by a quantum cascade laser (QCL) at their absorbance peak. A home-developed differential LDV at 1550nm wavelength is applied to detect the vibration signal at 100m. A differential configuration is applied to minimize the environment factors, such as environment noise and vibration, air turbulence, etc. and increase the detection sensitivity. The photo-vibrational signal of chemicals and explosives on different substrates are detected. The results show the potential of the proposed technique on detection of trace chemicals and explosives at long standoff distance.

Status of GeoTASO Trace Gas Data Analysis for the KORUS-AQ Campaign

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Janz, S. J.; Nowlan, C. R.; Lamsal, L. N.; Kowalewski, M. G.; Judd, L. M.; Wang, J.

2017-12-01

The Geostationary Trace gas and Aerosol Sensor Optimization (GeoTASO) instrument measures spectrally resolved backscattered solar radiation at high spatial resolution. The instrument completed 30 sorties on board the NASA LaRC UC-12 aircraft during the KORUS-AQ deployment in May-June of 2016. GeoTASO collects spatially resolved spectra with sufficient sensitivity to retrieve column amounts of the trace gas molecules NO2, SO2, H2CO, O3, and C2H2O2 as well as aerosol products. Typical product retrievals are done in 250 m2 bins with multiple overpasses of key ground sites, allowing for detailed spatio-temporal analysis. Flight patterns consisted of both contiguous overlapping grid patterns to simulate satellite observational strategies in support of future geostationary satellite algorithm development, and "race-track" sampling to perform calibration and validation with the in-situ DC-8 platform as well as ground based assets. We will summarize the status of the radiance data set as well as ongoing analysis from our co-Investigators.

Simultaneous Identification of Four "Legal High" Plant Species in a Multiplex PCR High-Resolution Melt Assay.

PubMed

Elkins, Kelly M; Perez, Anjelica C U; Quinn, Alicia A

2017-05-01

The international prevalence of "legal high" drugs necessitates the development of a method for their detection and identification. Herein, we describe the development and validation of a tetraplex multiplex real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay used to simultaneously identify morning glory, jimson weed, Hawaiian woodrose, and marijuana detected by high-resolution melt using LCGreen Plus ® . The PCR assay was evaluated based on the following: (i) specificity and selectivity-primers were tested on DNA extracted from 30 species and simulated forensic samples, (ii) sensitivity-serial dilutions of the target DNA were prepared, and (iii) reproducibility and reliability-sample replicates were tested and remelted on different days. The assay is ideal for cases in which inexpensive assays are needed to quickly detect and identify trace biological material present on drug paraphernalia that is too compromised for botanical microscopic identification and for which analysts are unfamiliar with the morphology of the emerging "legal high" species. © 2016 American Academy of Forensic Sciences.

AMOEBA clustering revisited. [cluster analysis, classification, and image display program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bryant, Jack

1990-01-01

A description of the clustering, classification, and image display program AMOEBA is presented. Using a difficult high resolution aircraft-acquired MSS image, the steps the program takes in forming clusters are traced. A number of new features are described here for the first time. Usage of the program is discussed. The theoretical foundation (the underlying mathematical model) is briefly presented. The program can handle images of any size and dimensionality.

High-resolution mass spectrometry of nitrogenous compounds of the Colorado Green River formation oil shale.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Simoneit, B. R.; Schnoes, H. K.; Haug, P.; Burlingame, A. L.

1971-01-01

Basic nitrogenous compounds isolated from extracts of Green River Formation oil shale were analyzed. The major homologous constituents found were the compositional types - namely, quinolines, tetrahydrequinolines with minor amounts of pyridines and indoles series and traces of more aromatized nitrogen compounds. These results are correlated with nitrogen compounds isolated from Green River Formation retort oil and are a survey of the unaltered nitrogen compounds indigeneous to the shale.

Origins Space Telescope: Tracing Dark Molecular Gas in the Milky Way

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Narayanan, Desika; Li, Qi; Krumholz, Mark; Dave, Romeel; Origins Space Telescope Science and Technology Definition Team

2018-01-01

We present theoretical models for quantifying the fraction of CO-dark molecular gas in galaxies. To do this, we combine novel thermal, chemical, and radiative equilibrium calculations with high-resolution cosmological zoom galaxy formation models. We discuss how this dark molecular gas will be uncovered by the Origins Space Telescope, one of the four science and technology definition studies of NASA Headquarters for the 2020 Astronomy and Astrophysics Decadal survey.

Nanoplasmonic imaging of latent fingerprints and identification of cocaine.

PubMed

Li, Kun; Qin, Weiwei; Li, Fan; Zhao, Xingchun; Jiang, Bowei; Wang, Kun; Deng, Suhui; Fan, Chunhai; Li, Di

2013-10-25

Search for traces: Aptamer-bound Au nanoparticles (Au NPs) were used to provide high-resolution dark-field microscopy images of latent fingerprints (LFPs) with level 2 and level 3 details. Furthermore, the cocaine-induced aggregation of Au NPs results in a true green-to-red color change of the scattered light, providing a quasi-quantative method to identify cocaine loadings in LFPs. Copyright © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Detection of trace nitric oxide concentrations using 1-D laser-induced fluorescence imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yoo, J.; Lee, T.; Jeffries, J. B.; Hanson, R. K.

2008-06-01

Spectrally resolved laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) with one-dimensional spatial imaging was investigated as a technique for detection of trace concentrations of nitric oxide (NO) in high-pressure flames. Experiments were performed in the burnt gases of premixed methane/argon/oxygen flames with seeded NO (15 to 50 ppm), pressures of 10 to 60 bar, and an equivalence ratio of 0.9. LIF signals were dispersed with a spectrometer and recorded on a 2-D intensified CCD array yielding both spectral resolution and 1-D spatial resolution. This method allows isolation of NO-LIF from interference signals due to alternative species (mainly hot O2 and CO2) while providing spatial resolution along the line of the excitation laser. A fast data analysis strategy was developed to enable pulse-by-pulse NO concentration measurements from these images. Statistical analyses as a function of laser energy of these single-shot data were used to determine the detection limits for NO concentration as well as the measurement precision. Extrapolating these results to pulse energies of ˜ 16 mJ/pulse yielded a predicted detection limit of ˜ 10 ppm for pressures up to 60 bar. Quantitative 1-D LIF measurements were performed in CH4/air flames to validate capability for detection of nascent NO in flames at 10-60 bar.

A numerical study of the axisymmetric Couette-Taylor problem using a fast high-resolution second-order central scheme

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

Kupferman, R.

The author presents a numerical study of the axisymmetric Couette-Taylor problem using a finite difference scheme. The scheme is based on a staggered version of a second-order central-differencing method combined with a discrete Hodge projection. The use of central-differencing operators obviates the need to trace the characteristic flow associated with the hyperbolic terms. The result is a simple and efficient scheme which is readily adaptable to other geometries and to more complicated flows. The scheme exhibits competitive performance in terms of accuracy, resolution, and robustness. The numerical results agree accurately with linear stability theory and with previous numerical studies.

High resolution in-operando microimaging of solar cells with pulsed electrically-detected magnetic resonance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Katz, Itai; Fehr, Matthias; Schnegg, Alexander; Lips, Klaus; Blank, Aharon

2015-02-01

The in-operando detection and high resolution spatial imaging of paramagnetic defects, impurities, and states becomes increasingly important for understanding loss mechanisms in solid-state electronic devices. Electron spin resonance (ESR), commonly employed for observing these species, cannot meet this challenge since it suffers from limited sensitivity and spatial resolution. An alternative and much more sensitive method, called electrically-detected magnetic resonance (EDMR), detects the species through their magnetic fingerprint, which can be traced in the device's electrical current. However, until now it could not obtain high resolution images in operating electronic devices. In this work, the first spatially-resolved electrically-detected magnetic resonance images (EDMRI) of paramagnetic states in an operating real-world electronic device are provided. The presented method is based on a novel microwave pulse sequence allowing for the coherent electrical detection of spin echoes in combination with powerful pulsed magnetic-field gradients. The applicability of the method is demonstrated on a device-grade 1-μm-thick amorphous silicon (a-Si:H) solar cell and an identical device that was degraded locally by an electron beam. The degraded areas with increased concentrations of paramagnetic defects lead to a local increase in recombination that is mapped by EDMRI with ∼20-μm-scale pixel resolution. The novel approach presented here can be widely used in the nondestructive in-operando three-dimensional characterization of solid-state electronic devices with a resolution potential of less than 100 nm.

Ten years of OMI observations: scientific highlights and impacts on the new generation of UV/VIS satellite instrumentation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Levelt, Pieternel; Veefkind, Pepijn; Bhartia, Pawan; Joiner, Joanna; Tamminen, Johanna; OMI Science Team

2014-05-01

On July 15, 2004 Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) was successfully launched from the Vandenberg military air force basis in California, USA, on NASA's EOS-Aura spacecraft. OMI is the first of a new generation of UV/VIS nadir solar backscatter imaging spectrometers, which provides nearly global coverage in one day with an unprecedented spatial resolution of 13 x 24 km2. OMI measures solar irradiance and Earth radiances in the wavelength range of 270 to 500 nm with a spectral resolution of about 0.5 nm. OMI is designed and built by the Netherlands and Finland and is also a third party mission of ESA. The major step that was made in the OMI instrument compared to its predecessors is the use of 2-dimensional detector arrays (CCDs) in a highly innovative small optical design. These innovations enable the combination of a high spatial resolution and a good spectral resolution with daily global coverage. OMI measures a range of trace gases (O3, NO2, SO2, HCHO, BrO, OClO, H2O), clouds and aerosols. Albeit OMI is already 5 years over its design lifetime, the instrument is still fully operational. The successor of OMI is TROPOMI (TROPOspheric Monitoring Instrument) on the Copernicus Sentinel-5 precursor mission, planned for launch in 2015. OMI's unique capabilities rely in measuring tropospheric trace gases with a small footprint and daily global coverage. The unprecedented spatial resolution of the instrument revealed for the first time tropospheric pollution maps on a daily basis with urban scale resolution leading to improved air quality forecasts. The OMI measurements also improve our understanding of air quality and the interaction between air quality and climate change by combining measurements of air pollutants and aerosols. In recent years the data are also used for obtaining high-resolution global emission maps using inverse modelling or related techniques, challenging the bottom-up inventories based emission maps. In addition to scientific research, OMI also contributes to several operational services, including volcanic plume warning systems for aviation, UV forecasts and the air quality forecasts. In this invited talk an overview will be given of unique findings and new scientific results based on OMI data over the last 10 years and which unique OMI instrument features are recurring in the new generation of UV/VIS satellite instrumentation in Europe, USA and Asia.

Measurement of fine particulate and gas-phase species during the New Year's fireworks 2005 in Mainz, Germany

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Drewnick, Frank; Hings, Silke S.; Curtius, Joachim; Eerdekens, Gunter; Williams, Jonathan

The chemical composition and chemically resolved size distributions of fine aerosol particles were measured at high time resolution (5 min) with a time-of-flight aerosol mass spectrometer (TOF-AMS) during the New Year's 2005 fireworks in Mainz, central Germany. In addition, particle number concentrations and trace gas concentrations were measured using a condensation particle counter (CPC) and a proton transfer reaction mass spectrometer (PTR-MS). The main non-refractory components of the firework aerosol were potassium, sulfate, total organics and chloride. Increased trace gas mixing ratios of methanol, acetonitrile, acetone and acetaldehyde were observed. Aerosol nitrate and ammonium concentrations were not significantly affected by the fireworks as well as the measured aromatic trace gases. The sub-micron aerosol concentrations peaked about 20 min after midnight with total mass concentrations larger than 600 μg m -3. The trace gas concentrations peaked about 30 min later. Using the sulfur-to-potassium concentration ratio measured in another fireworks aerosol, it was for the first time possible to estimate the relative ionization efficiency of aerosol potassium, measured with the TOF-AMS. Here we found a value of RIE K=2.9.

A mid-twentieth century reduction in tropical upwelling inferred from coralline trace element proxies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reuer, Matthew K.; Boyle, Edward A.; Cole, Julia E.

2003-05-01

The Cariaco Basin is an important archive of past climate variability given its response to inter- and extratropical climate forcing and the accumulation of annually laminated sediments within an anoxic water column. This study presents high-resolution surface coral trace element records ( Montastrea annularis and Siderastrea siderea) from Isla Tortuga, Venezuela, located within the upwelling center of this region. A two-fold reduction in Cd/Ca ratios (3.5-1.7 nmol/mol) is observed from 1946 to 1952 with no concurrent shift in Ba/Ca ratios. This reduction agrees with the hydrographic distribution of dissolved cadmium and barium and their expected response to upwelling. Significant anthropogenic variability is also observed from Pb/Ca analysis, observing three lead maxima since 1920. Kinetic control of trace element ratios is inferred from an interspecies comparison of Cd/Ca and Ba/Ca ratios (consistent with the Sr/Ca kinetic artifact), but these artifacts are smaller than the environmental signal and do not explain the Cd/Ca transition. The trace element records agree with historical climate data and differ from sedimentary faunal abundance records, suggesting a linear response to North Atlantic extratropical forcing cannot account for the observed historical variability in this region.

Evolutionary status of the pre-protostellar core L1498

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kuiper, T. B.; Langer, W. D.; Velusamy, T.; Levin, S. M. (Principal Investigator)

1996-01-01

L1498 is a classic example of a dense cold pre-protostellar core. To study the evolutionary status, the structure, dynamics, and chemical properties of this core we have obtained high spatial and high spectral resolution observations of molecules tracing densities of 10(3)-10(5) cm-3. We observed CCS, NH3, C3H2, and HC7N with NASA's DSN 70 m antennas. We also present large-scale maps of C18O and 13CO observed with the AT&T 7 m antenna. For the high spatial resolution maps of selected regions within the core we used the VLA for CCS at 22 GHz, and the Owens Valley Radio Observatory (OVRO) MMA for CCS at 94 GHz and CS (2-1). The 22 GHz CCS emission marks a high-density [n(H2) > 10(4) cm -3] core, which is elongated with a major axis along the SE-NW direction. NH3 and C3H2 emissions are located inside the boundary of the CCS emission. C18O emission traces a lower density gas extending beyond the CCS boundary. Along the major axis of the dense core, CCS, NH3 and C3H2 emission show evidence of limb brightening. The observations are consistent with a chemically differentiated onion-shell structure for the L1498 core, with NH3 in the inner and CCS in the outer parts of the core. The high angular resolution (9"-12") spectral line maps obtained by combining NASA Goldstone 70 m and VLA data resolve the CCS 22 GHz emission in the southeast and northwest boundaries into arclike enhancements, supporting the picture that CCS emission originates in a shell outside the NH3 emitting region. Interferometric maps of CCS at 94 GHz and CS at 98 GHz show that their emitting regions contain several small-scale dense condensations. We suggest that the differences between the CCS, CS, C3H2, and NH3 emission are caused by a time-dependent effect as the core evolves slowly. We interpret the chemical and physical properties of L1498 in terms of a quasi-static (or slowly contracting) dense core in which the outer envelope is still growing. The growth rate of the core is determined by the density increase in the CCS shell resulting from the accretion of the outer low-density gas traced by C18O. We conclude that L1498 could become unstable to rapid collapse to form a protostar in less than 5 x 10(6) yr.

Tracking Human Mobility Using WiFi Signals

PubMed Central

Sapiezynski, Piotr; Stopczynski, Arkadiusz; Gatej, Radu; Lehmann, Sune

2015-01-01

We study six months of human mobility data, including WiFi and GPS traces recorded with high temporal resolution, and find that time series of WiFi scans contain a strong latent location signal. In fact, due to inherent stability and low entropy of human mobility, it is possible to assign location to WiFi access points based on a very small number of GPS samples and then use these access points as location beacons. Using just one GPS observation per day per person allows us to estimate the location of, and subsequently use, WiFi access points to account for 80% of mobility across a population. These results reveal a great opportunity for using ubiquitous WiFi routers for high-resolution outdoor positioning, but also significant privacy implications of such side-channel location tracking. PMID:26132115

CAMECA IMS 1300-HR3: The New Generation Ion Microprobe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peres, P.; Choi, S. Y.; Renaud, L.; Saliot, P.; Larson, D. J.

2016-12-01

The success of secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) in Geo- and Cosmo-chemistry relies on its performance in terms of: 1) very high sensitivity (mandatory for high precision measurements or to achieve low detection limits); 2) a broad mass range of elemental and isotopic species, from low mass (H) to high mass (U and above); 3) in-situ analysis of any solid flat polished surface; and 4) high spatial resolution from tens of microns down to sub-micron scale. The IMS 1300-HR3 (High Reproducibility, High spatial Resolution, High mass Resolution) is the latest generation of CAMECA's large geometry magnetic sector SIMS (or ion microprobe), successor to the internationally recognized IMS 1280-HR. The 1300-HR3delivers unmatched analytical performance for a wide range of applications (stable isotopes, geochronology, trace elements, nuclear safeguards and environmental studies…) due to: • High brightness RF-plasma oxygen ion source with enhanced beam density and current stability, dramatically improving spatial resolution, data reproducibility, and throughput • Automated sample loading system with motorized sample height (Z) adjustment, significantly increasing analysis precision, ease-of-use, and productivity • UV-light microscope for enhanced optical image resolution, together with dedicated software for easy sample navigation (developed by University of Wisconsin, USA) • Low noise 1012Ω resistor Faraday cup preamplifier boards for measuring low signal intensities In addition, improvements in electronics and software have been integrated into the new instrument. In order to meet a growing demand from geochronologists, CAMECA also introduces the KLEORA, which is a fully optimized ion microprobe for advanced mineral dating derived from the IMS 1300-HR3. Instrumental developments as well as data obtained for stable isotope and U-Pb dating applications will be presented in detail.

An optimized chronology for a stalagmite using seasonal trace element cycles from Shihua Cave, Beijing, North China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ban, F.; Baker, A.; Marjo, C.; Duan, W.; Li, X.; Coleborn, K.; Akter, R.; Nagra, G.

2017-12-01

Stalagmites play an increasingly important role in the paleoclimatic reconstruction from seasonal to orbital timescales. One of the important reasons is that 230Th-dating can provide an absolute age enabling more accurate knowledge of the stalagmite growth. Additionally, annual trace element and optical layers can provide complementary method for determining a precise age and seasonal resolution. The trace elements of a stalagmite (XMG) in Beijing Shihua Cave, which is located in the East Asian monsoon region, were analyzed by laser ablation ICP-MS and compared with stalagmite laminae. The results show that: (1) the polished section of the topmost 4 mm of stalagmite XMG has obvious bi-optical layers (fluorescence and visible light) under a conventional transmission microscope. In the rest of the sample laminae are not observed using this method. (2) The variations of P/Ca, Sr/Ca, Ba/Ca, U/Ca and Mg/Ca show seasonal cycles throughout the sample. Sr/Ca is inversely correlated to P/Ca, and its peaks correspond with the (non-fluorescing) white layers, which deposit in late winter and spring when the climate is dry. The peaks of P/Ca match closely with the (fluorescing) opaque layers, because P is a soil-derived element which increases in the high rainfall monsoon period. (3) The PCA of the five trace elements showed that the cycles of PC1 could represent the annual cycle. This stalagmite was deposited over 148 ± 4 years through peak counting and the cycles of PC1 correspond well with the annual layers. Trace element cyclicity as shown by PC1 can increase the accuracy of stalagmite dating, especially in the absence of obvious laminae. The trace elements can be used as the marker of seasonal changes in a strongly contrasting wet-dry monsoon climate regime. Keywords: high-precision dating; LA-ICP-MS; stalagmite; trace elements; seasonal cycles; Shihua Cave

Trace element concentrations in feathers and blood of Northern goshawk (Accipiter gentilis) nestlings from Norway and Spain.

PubMed

Dolan, Kevin J; Ciesielski, Tomasz M; Lierhagen, Syverin; Eulaers, Igor; Nygård, Torgeir; Johnsen, Trond V; Gómez-Ramírez, Pilar; García-Fernández, Antonio J; Bustnes, Jan O; Ortiz-Santaliestra, Manuel E; Jaspers, Veerle L B

2017-10-01

Information on trace element pollution in the terrestrial environment and its biota is limited compared to the marine environment. In the present study, we collected body feathers and blood of 37 Northern goshawk (Accipiter gentilis) nestlings from Tromsø (northern Norway), Trondheim (central Norway), and Murcia (southeastern Spain) to study regional exposure, hypothesizing the potential health risks of metals and other trace elements. Blood and body feathers were analyzed by a high resolution inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (HR-ICP-MS) for aluminum (Al), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), arsenic (As), selenium (Se), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg) and lead (Pb). The influence of regional differences, urbanization and agricultural land usage in proximity to the nesting Northern goshawks was investigated using particular spatial analysis techniques. Most trace elements were detected below literature blood toxicity thresholds, except for elevated concentrations (mean ± SD µgml -1 ww) found for Zn (5.4 ± 1.5), Cd (0.00023 ± 0.0002), and Hg (0.021 ± 0.01). Corresponding mean concentrations in feathers (mean ± SD µgg -1 dw) were 82.0 ± 12.4, 0.0018 ± 0.002, and 0.26 ± 0.2 for Zn, Cd and Hg respectively. Multiple linear regressions indicated region was a significant factor influencing Al, Zn, Se and Hg feather concentrations. Blood Cd and Hg concentrations were significantly influenced by agricultural land cover. Urbanization did not have a significant impact on trace element concentrations in either blood or feathers. Overall metal and trace element levels do not indicate a high risk for toxic effects in the nestlings. Levels of Cd in Tromsø and Hg in Trondheim were however above sub-lethal toxic threshold levels. For holistic risk assessment purposes it is important that the concentrations found in the nestlings of this study indicate that terrestrial raptors are exposed to various trace elements. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

SRXRF analysis with spatial resolution of dental calculus

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sánchez, Héctor Jorge; Pérez, Carlos Alberto; Grenón, Miriam

2000-09-01

This work presents elemental-composition studies of dental calculus by X-ray fluorescence analysis using synchrotron radiation. The intrinsic characteristics of synchrotron light allow for a semi-quantitative analysis with spatial resolution. The experiments were carried out in the high-vacuum station of the XRF beamline at the Synchrotron Light National Laboratory (Campinas, Brazil). All the measurements were performed in conventional geometry (45°+45°) and the micro-collimation was attained via a pair of orthogonal slits mounted in the beamline. In this way, pixels of 50 μm×50 μm were obtained keeping a high flux of photons on the sample. Samples of human dental calculus were measured in different positions along their growing axis, in order to determine variations of the compositions in the pattern of deposit. Intensity ratios of minor elements and traces were obtained, and linear profiles and surface distributions were determined. As a general summary, we can conclude that μXRF experiments with spatial resolution on dental calculus are feasible with simple collimation and adequate positioning systems, keeping a high flux of photon. These results open interesting perspectives for the future station of the line, devoted to μXRF, which will reach resolutions of the order of 10 μm.

2-d chemical sampling of a tropopause fold over the Mediterranean: Observations by the IR limb-imager GLORIA and calculations by chemistry-transport models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Johansson, Sören; Friedl-Vallon, Felix; Höpfner, Michael; Ungermann, Jörn; Vogel, Bärbel; Grooß, Jens-Uwe; Müller, Rolf; Diekmann, Christopher; Schröter, Jennifer; Ruhnke, Roland; Orphal, Johannes

2017-04-01

We will present results from measurements obtained by the GLORIA (Gimballed Limb Observer for Radiance Imaging of the Atmosphere) instrument that has been operated on the Geophysica research aircraft during a field campaign within the European StratoClim project in the Mediterranean area with basis in Kalamata, Greece, in September 2016. The flight at an altitude of 18 km (400 K) reached the eastern Mediterranean south of Cyprus, where air influence by the Asian Monsoon was sampled. We will show retrievals of two-dimensional trace-gas distributions derived from GLORIA observations performed with high spectral resolution. Targeted gases are, amongst others, O3 and HNO3 as stratospheric tracers and PAN and C2H6 as pollution indicators. We will present an analysis of retrieval performance including diagnostics of spatial resolution and an estimated error budget. For a first scientific analysis, comparisons to atmospheric model simulations from two atmospheric chemistry-transport models, ICON-ART (ICOsahedral Nonhydrostatic model - Aerosols and Reactive Trace gases) and CLaMS (Chemical Lagrangian Model of the Stratosphere) will be discussed. Focus will be on comparisons of the distribution of the trace gases measured by GLORIA to the model tracers indicating the chemical composition as well as well as the air mass origin. Acknowledgements: The research leading to these results has received funding from the European Community's Seventh Framework Programme (FP7/2007-2013) under grant agreement n° 603557

Tracing Slow Winds from T Tauri Stars via Low Velocity Forbidden Line Emission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Simon, Molly; Pascucci, Ilaria; Edwards, Suzan; Feng, Wanda; Rigliaco, Elisabetta; Gorti, Uma; Hollenbach, David J.; Tuttle Keane, James

2016-06-01

Protoplanetary disks are a natural result of star formation, and they provide the material from which planets form. The evolutional and eventual dispersal of protoplanetary disks play critical roles in determining the final architecture of planetary systems. Models of protoplanetary disk evolution suggest that viscous accretion of disk gas onto the central star and photoevaporation driven by high-energy photons from the central star are the main mechanisms that drive disk dispersal. Understanding when photoevaporation begins to dominate over viscous accretion is critically important for models of planet formation and planetary migration. Using Keck/HIRES (resolution of ~ 7 km/s) we analyze three low excitation forbidden lines ([O I] 6300 Å, [O I] 5577 Å, and [S II] 6731 Å) previously determined to trace winds (including photoevaporative winds). These winds can be separated into two components, a high velocity component (HVC) with blueshifts between ~30 - 150 km/s, and a low velocity component (LVC) with blueshifts on the order of ~5 km/s (Hartigan et al. 1995). We selected a sample of 32 pre-main sequence T Tauri stars in the Taurus-Auriga star-forming region (plus TW Hya) with disks that span a range of evolutionary stages. We focus on the origin of the LVC specifically, which we are able to separate into a broad component (BC) and a narrow component (NC) due to the high resolution of our optical spectra. We focus our analysis on the [O I] 6300 Å emission feature, which is detected in 30/33 of our targets. Interestingly, we find wind diagnostics consistent with photoevaporation for only 21% of our sample. We can, however, conclude that a specific component of the LVC is tracing a magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) wind rather than a photoevaporative wind. We will present the details behind these findings and the implications they have for planet formation more generally.

Seismic reflection imaging of shallow oceanographic structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Piété, Helen; Marié, Louis; Marsset, Bruno; Thomas, Yannick; Gutscher, Marc-André

2013-05-01

Multichannel seismic (MCS) reflection profiling can provide high lateral resolution images of deep ocean thermohaline fine structure. However, the shallowest layers of the water column (z < 150 m) have remained unexplored by this technique until recently. In order to explore the feasibility of shallow seismic oceanography (SO), we reprocessed and analyzed four multichannel seismic reflection sections featuring reflectors at depths between 10 and 150 m. The influence of the acquisition parameters was quantified. Seismic data processing dedicated to SO was also investigated. Conventional seismic acquisition systems were found to be ill-suited to the imaging of shallow oceanographic structures, because of a high antenna filter effect induced by large offsets and seismic trace lengths, and sources that typically cannot provide both a high level of emission and fine vertical resolution. We considered a test case, the imagery of the seasonal thermocline on the western Brittany continental shelf. New oceanographic data acquired in this area allowed simulation of the seismic acquisition. Sea trials of a specifically designed system were performed during the ASPEX survey, conducted in early summer 2012. The seismic device featured: (i) four seismic streamers, each consisting of six traces of 1.80 m; (ii) a 1000 J SIG sparker source, providing a 400 Hz signal with a level of emission of 205 dB re 1 μPa @ 1 m. This survey captured the 15 m thick, 30 m deep seasonal thermocline in unprecedented detail, showing images of vertical displacements most probably induced by internal waves.

A photoacoustic spectrometer for trace gas detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Telles, E. M.; Bezerra, E.; Scalabrin, A.

2005-06-01

A high-resolution external laser photoacoustic spectrometer has been developed for trace gas detection with absorption transitions in coincidence with CO2 laser emission lines (9,2-10,9 μm: 920-1086 cm-1). The CO2 laser operates in 90 CW lines with power of up to 15 W. A PC-controlled step motor can tune the laser lines. The resonance frequency of first longitudinal mode of the photoacoustic cell is at 1600 Hz. The cell Q-factor and cell constant are measured close to 50 and 28 mVcmW-1, respectively. The spectrometer has been tested in preliminary studies to analyze the absorption transitions of ozone (O_3). The ethylene (C_2H_4) from papaya fruit is also investigated using N2 as carrier gas at a constant flow rate.

Pollution in the Summertime Canadian High Arctic observed during NETCARE 2014: Investigation of origin and composition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Köllner, Franziska; Schneider, Johannes; Bozem, Heiko; Hoor, Peter; Willis, Megan; Burkart, Julia; Leaitch, Richard; Abbatt, Jon; Herber, Andreas; Borrmann, Stephan

2015-04-01

The clean and sensitive Arctic atmosphere is influenced by transport of air masses from lower latitudes that bring pollution in the form of aerosol particles and trace gases into the Arctic regions. However, the transport processes causing such pollution events are yet not sufficiently well understood. Here we report on results from the aircraft campaign NETCARE 2014 that took place in July 2014 in Resolute Bay, Nunavut (Canada) as part of the "Network on Climate and Aerosols: Addressing Key Uncertainties in Remote Canadian Environment" (NETCARE). These airborne measurements add to only a very few of such measurements conducted in the Arctic during the summertime. The instrumentation on board the research aircraft Polar 6 (operated by the Alfred Wegener Institute for Polar and Marine Research) included a large set of physico-chemical aerosol analysis instruments, several trace gas measurements and basic meteorological parameters. Here we focus on observed pollution events that caused elevated trace gas and aerosol concentrations in the summertime Canadian High Arctic between 50 and 3500 m. In order to better understand the chemical composition and the origin of those polluted air masses, we use single particle aerosol composition obtained using the Aircraft-based Laser Ablation Aerosol Mass Spectrometer (ALABAMA), combined with aerosol size distributions and number concentrations from an Optical Particle Counter as well as trace gas measurements of CO and CO2. CO and CO2 are important tracers to study pollution events, which are connected to anthropogenic and non-anthropogenic combustion processes, respectively biomass burning and fossil fuel combustion. The ALABAMA provides a detailed single particle aerosol composition analysis from which we identify different particle types like soot-, biomass burning-, organics-, diesel exhaust- and metallic particles. The measurements were compared to Lagrangian models like FLEXPART and LAGRANTO to find the pollution sources and transport pathways of the respective plumes into the Arctic. First results indicate a strong influence of biomass burning originating in the Northwest Territories several days before the measurements above Resolute Bay. This long range transport was associated with cyclonic activities of a prevailing low pressure system. Trace gas measurements as well as particle concentrations and sizes show an enhancement in the plume region around 2 km. The particles in this pollution plume were composed of soot, nitrate, cyanide and levoglucosan, confirming biomass burning as particle source.

Enhanced FIB-SEM systems for large-volume 3D imaging

PubMed Central

Xu, C Shan; Hayworth, Kenneth J; Lu, Zhiyuan; Grob, Patricia; Hassan, Ahmed M; García-Cerdán, José G; Niyogi, Krishna K; Nogales, Eva; Weinberg, Richard J; Hess, Harald F

2017-01-01

Focused Ion Beam Scanning Electron Microscopy (FIB-SEM) can automatically generate 3D images with superior z-axis resolution, yielding data that needs minimal image registration and related post-processing. Obstacles blocking wider adoption of FIB-SEM include slow imaging speed and lack of long-term system stability, which caps the maximum possible acquisition volume. Here, we present techniques that accelerate image acquisition while greatly improving FIB-SEM reliability, allowing the system to operate for months and generating continuously imaged volumes > 106 µm3. These volumes are large enough for connectomics, where the excellent z resolution can help in tracing of small neuronal processes and accelerate the tedious and time-consuming human proofreading effort. Even higher resolution can be achieved on smaller volumes. We present example data sets from mammalian neural tissue, Drosophila brain, and Chlamydomonas reinhardtii to illustrate the power of this novel high-resolution technique to address questions in both connectomics and cell biology. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.25916.001 PMID:28500755

Enhanced FIB-SEM systems for large-volume 3D imaging

DOE PAGES

Xu, C. Shan; Hayworth, Kenneth J.; Lu, Zhiyuan; ...

2017-05-13

Focused Ion Beam Scanning Electron Microscopy (FIB-SEM) can automatically generate 3D images with superior z-axis resolution, yielding data that needs minimal image registration and related post-processing. Obstacles blocking wider adoption of FIB-SEM include slow imaging speed and lack of long-term system stability, which caps the maximum possible acquisition volume. Here, we present techniques that accelerate image acquisition while greatly improving FIB-SEM reliability, allowing the system to operate for months and generating continuously imaged volumes > 10 6 ?m 3 . These volumes are large enough for connectomics, where the excellent z resolution can help in tracing of small neuronal processesmore » and accelerate the tedious and time-consuming human proofreading effort. Even higher resolution can be achieved on smaller volumes. We present example data sets from mammalian neural tissue, Drosophila brain, and Chlamydomonas reinhardtii to illustrate the power of this novel high-resolution technique to address questions in both connectomics and cell biology.« less

Evolution of Satellite Imagers and Sounders for Low Earth Orbit and Technology Directions at NASA

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pagano, Thomas S.; McClain, Charles R.

2010-01-01

Imagers and Sounders for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) provide fundamental global daily observations of the Earth System for scientists, researchers, and operational weather agencies. The imager provides the nominal 1-2 km spatial resolution images with global coverage in multiple spectral bands for a wide range of uses including ocean color, vegetation indices, aerosol, snow and cloud properties, and sea surface temperature. The sounder provides vertical profiles of atmospheric temperature, water vapor cloud properties, and trace gases including ozone, carbon monoxide, methane and carbon dioxide. Performance capabilities of these systems has evolved with the optical and sensing technologies of the decade. Individual detectors were incorporated on some of the first imagers and sounders that evolved to linear array technology in the '80's. Signal-to-noise constraints limited these systems to either broad spectral resolution as in the case of the imager, or low spatial resolution as in the case of the sounder. Today's area 2-dimensional large format array technology enables high spatial and high spectral resolution to be incorporated into a single instrument. This places new constraints on the design of these systems and enables new capabilities for scientists to examine the complex processes governing the Earth System.

Cretaceous honeycomb oysters (Pycnodonte vesicularis) as palaeoseasonality records: A multi-proxy study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

de Winter, Niels J.; Vellekoop, Johan; Vorsselmans, Robin; Golreihan, Asefeh; Petersen, Sierra V.; Meyer, Kyle W.; Speijer, Robert P.; Claeys, Philippe

2017-04-01

Pycnodonte or "honeycomb-oysters" (Bivalvia: Gryphaeidea) is an extinct genus of calcite-producing bivalves which is found in abundance in Cretaceous to Pleistocene fossil beds worldwide. As such, Pycnodonte shells could be ideal tracers of palaeoclimate through time, with the capability to reconstruct sea water conditions and palaeotemperatures in a range of palaeoenvironmental settings. Only few studies have attempted to reconstruct palaeoclimate based on Pycnodonte shells and with variable degrees of success (e.g. Videt, 2003; Huyge et al., 2015). Our study investigates the shell growth, structure and chemical characteristics of Maastrichtian Pycnodonte vesicularis from Bajada de Jaguel in Argentina and aims to rigorously test the application of multiple palaeoenvironmental proxies on the shells of several Maastrichtian Pycnodonte oysters for palaeoclimate reconstruction. The preservation state of four calcite shells was assessed by fluorescence microscopy, cathodoluminescence and micro X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) mapping. Their shell structure was investigated using a combination of XRF mapping, high-resolution color scanning and microCT scanning. Long integration time point-by-point XRF line scanning yielded high-resolution trace element profiles through the hinge of all shells. Microdrilled samples from the same locations on the shell were analyzed for trace element composition by ICP-MS and for stable carbon and oxygen isotopes by IRMS. Preservation of the calcite microstructure was found to be of sufficient quality to allow discussion of original shell porosity, annual growth increments and pristine chemical signatures of the bivalves. The combination of fluorescence and cathodoluminescence microscopy with XRF mapping and microCT scanning sheds light on the characteristic internal "honeycomb" structure of these extinct bivalves and allows comparison with that of the related extant Neopycnodonte bivalves (Wisshak et al., 2009). Furthermore, high resolution trace element and stable isotope records allow discussion of the degree to which Pycnodonte shells record their palaeoenvironment and can be used to reconstruct past sea water conditions. Preliminary results indicate that stable isotope and trace element ratios in Pynodonte shells record different seasonally changing sea water conditions in the Maastrichtian and reconstructed temperatures are consistent with results from clumped isotope analysis on the same shells and TEX86 analysis on the surrounding rocks. This multi-proxy study sheds light on the shell structure of Pycnodonte oysters, their chemical signature and growth pattern and investigates the expression of palaeoenvironmental proxies in the pristine shell calcite of these bivalves. This investigation shows the potential of using fossil Pycnodonte bivalves as a new archive for palaeoclimate reconstruction on a seasonal scale over a wide range of palaeolatitudes from the Cretaceous until the Pleistocene. References Huyghe et al. (2015) J. Geol Soc 172.5: 576-587. Videt (2003) Diss. Université Rennes 1. Wisshak, et al. (2009) Deep-Sea Res Pt I 56.3: 374-407.

JURASSIC Retrieval Processing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Blank, J.; Ungermann, J.; Guggenmoser, T.; Kaufmann, M.; Riese, M.

2012-04-01

The Gimballed Limb Observer for Radiance Imaging in the Atmosphere (GLORIA) is an aircraft based infrared limb-sounder. This presentation will give an overview of the retrieval techniques used for the analysis of data produced by the GLORIA instrument. For data processing, the JUelich RApid Spectral SImulation Code 2 (JURASSIC2) was developed. It consists of a set of programs to retrieve atmospheric profiles from GLORIA measurements. The GLORIA Michelson interferometer can run with a wide range of parameters. In the dynamics mode, spectra are generate with a medium spectral and a very high temporal and spatial resolution. Each sample can contain thousands of spectral lines for each contributing trace gas. In the JURASSIC retrieval code this is handled by using a radiative transport model based on the Emissivity Growth Approximation. Deciding which samples should be included in the retrieval is a non-trivial task and requires specific domain knowledge. To ease this problem we developed an automatic selection program by analysing the Shannon information content. By taking into account data for all relevant trace gases and instrument effects, optimal integrated spectral windows are computed. This includes considerations for cross-influence of trace gases, which has non-obvious consequence for the contribution of spectral samples. We developed methods to assess the influence of spectral windows on the retrieval. While we can not exhaustively search the whole range of possible spectral sample combinations, it is possible to optimize information content using a genetic algorithm. The GLORIA instrument is mounted with a viewing direction perpendicular to the flight direction. A gimbal frame makes it possible to move the instrument 45° to both direction. By flying on a circular path, it is possible to generate images of an area of interest from a wide range of angles. These can be analyzed in a 3D-tomographic fashion, which yields superior spatial resolution along line of site. Usually limb instruments have a resolution of several hundred kilometers. In studies we have shown to get a resolution of 35km in all horizontal directions. Even when only linear flight patterns can be realized, resolutions of ≈70km can be obtained. This technique can be used to observe features of the Upper Troposphere Lower Stratosphere (UTLS), where important mixing processes take place. Especially tropopause folds are difficult to image, as their main features need to be along line of flight when using common 1D approach.

Accounting for surface reflectance in the derivation of vertical column densities of NO2 from airborne imaging DOAS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meier, Andreas Carlos; Schönhardt, Anja; Richter, Andreas; Bösch, Tim; Seyler, André; Constantin, Daniel Eduard; Shaiganfar, Reza; Merlaud, Alexis; Ruhtz, Thomas; Wagner, Thomas; van Roozendael, Michel; Burrows, John. P.

2016-04-01

Nitrogen oxides, NOx (NOx = NO + NO2) play a key role in tropospheric chemistry. In addition to their directly harmful effects on the respiratory system of living organisms, they influence the levels of tropospheric ozone and contribute to acid rain and eutrophication of ecosystems. As they are produced in combustion processes, they can serve as an indicator for anthropogenic air pollution. In the late summers of 2014 and 2015, two extensive measurement campaigns were conducted in Romania by several European research institutes, with financial support from ESA. The AROMAT / AROMAT-2 campaigns (Airborne ROmanian Measurements of Aerosols and Trace gases) were dedicated to measurements of air quality parameters utilizing newly developed instrumentation at state-of-the-art. The experiences gained will help to calibrate and validate the measurements taken by the upcoming Sentinel-S5p mission scheduled for launch in 2016. The IUP Bremen contributed to these campaigns with its airborne imaging DOAS (Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy) instrument AirMAP (Airborne imaging DOAS instrument for Measurements of Atmospheric Pollution). AirMAP allows retrieving spatial distributions of trace gas columns densities in a stripe below the aircraft. The measurements have a high spatial resolution of approximately 30 x 80 m2 (along x across track) at a typical flight altitude of 3000 m. Supported by the instrumental setup and the large swath, gapless maps of trace gas distributions above a large city, like Bucharest or Berlin, can be acquired within a time window of approximately two hours. These properties make AirMAP a valuable tool for the validation of trace gas measurements from space. DOAS retrievals yield the density of absorbers integrated along the light path of the measurement. The light path is altered with a changing surface reflectance, leading to enhanced / reduced slant column densities of NO2 depending on surface properties. This effect must be considered in the derivation of air mass factors used to convert the measurements into vertical columns. Due to the high-resolution measurements, no data product of surface reflectance with sufficient spatial resolution is available. Thus the surface reflectance is estimated from AirMAP's own spectra. In this work the results of the research flights will be presented. The study focuses on the validation of AirMAP's measurements by comparison to other ground-based platforms like (mobile) MAX-DOAS measurements. Conclusions will be drawn on the quality of the measurements, their applicability for satellite data validation and possible improvements for future measurements.

Development of and fabrication of high resolution gas chromatographic capillary columns

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zlatkis, A.

1982-01-01

Gas chromatographic columns which are used in the trace gas analyzer (TGA) for the space shuttle are coated with a polyoxyethylene lauryl ether. This stationary phase is of medium polarity and has a temperature limit of 160 C. A polymer for this application which has an improved thermal stability is investigated. The use of fused silica capillary columns with specially bonded phases as well as an introduction system (on column) was also studied.

Tracing nitrogenous disinfection byproducts after medium pressure UV water treatment by stable isotope labeling and high resolution mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Kolkman, Annemieke; Martijn, Bram J; Vughs, Dennis; Baken, Kirsten A; van Wezel, Annemarie P

2015-04-07

Advanced oxidation processes are important barriers for organic micropollutants (e.g., pharmaceuticals, pesticides) in (drinking) water treatment. Studies indicate that medium pressure (MP) UV/H2O2 treatment leads to a positive response in Ames mutagenicity tests, which is then removed after granulated activated carbon (GAC) filtration. The formed potentially mutagenic substances were hitherto not identified and may result from the reaction of photolysis products of nitrate with (photolysis products of) natural organic material (NOM). In this study we present an innovative approach to trace the formation of disinfection byproducts (DBPs) of MP UV water treatment, based on stable isotope labeled nitrate combined with high resolution mass spectrometry. It was shown that after MP UV treatment of artificial water containing NOM and nitrate, multiple nitrogen containing substances were formed. In total 84 N-DBPs were detected at individual concentrations between 1 to 135 ng/L bentazon-d6 equivalents, with a summed concentration of 1.2 μg/L bentazon-d6 equivalents. The chemical structures of three byproducts were confirmed. Screening for the 84 N-DBPs in water samples from a full-scale drinking water treatment plant based on MP UV/H2O2 treatment showed that 22 of the N-DBPs found in artificial water were also detected in real water samples.

Study of Structure and Small-Scale Fragmentation in TMC-1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Langer, W. D.; Velusamy, T.; Kuiper, T. B.; Levin, S.; Olsen, E.; Migenes, V.

1995-01-01

Large-scale C(sup 18)O maps show that the Taurus molecular cloud 1 (TMC-1) has numerous cores located along a ridge which extends about 12 minutes by at least 35 minutes. The cores traced by C(sup 18)O are about a few arcminutes (0.1-0.2 pc) in extent, typically contain about 0.5-3 solar mass, and are probably gravitationally bound. We present a detailed study of the small-scale fragmentary structure of one of these cores, called core D, within TMC-1 using very high spectral and spatial resolution maps of CCS and CS. The CCS lines are excellent tracers for investigating the density, temperature, and velocity structure in dense cores. The high spectral resolution, 0.008 km /s, data consist mainly of single-dish, Nyquist-sampled maps of CCS at 22 GHz with 45 sec spatial resolution taken with NASA's 70 m DSN antenna at Goldstone. The high spatial resolution spectral line maps were made with the Very Large Array (9 sec resolution) at 22 GHz and with the OVRO millimeter array in CCS and CS at 93 GHz and 98 GHz, respectively, with 6 sec resolution. These maps are supplemented with single-dish observations of CCS and CC(sup 34)S spectra at 33 GHz using a NASA 34 m DSN antenna, CCS 93 GHz, C(sup 34)S (2-1), and C(sup 18)O (1-0) single-dish observations made with the AT&T Bell Laboratories 7 m antenna. Our high spectral and spatial CCS and CS maps show that core D is highly fragmented. The single-dish CCS observations map out several clumps which range in size from approx. 45 sec to 90 sec (0.03-0.06 pc). These clumps have very narrow intrinsic line widths, 0.11-0.25 km/s, slightly larger than the thermal line width for CCS at 10 K, and masses about 0.03-0.2 solar mass. Interferometer observations of some of these clumps show that they have considerable additional internal structure, consisting of several condensations ranging in size from approx. 10 sec- 30 sec (0.007-0.021 pc), also with narrow line widths. The mass of these smallest fragments is of order 0.01 solar mass. These small-scale structures traced by CCS appear to be gravitationally unbound by a large factor. Most of these objects have masses that fall below those of the putative proto-brown dwarfs (approx. less than 0.1 solar mass). The presence of many small gravitationally unbound clumps suggests that fragmentation mechanisms other than a purely Jeans gravitational instability may be important for the dynamics of these cold dense cores.

Characterization of extreme ultraviolet laser ablation mass spectrometry for actinide trace analysis and nanoscale isotopic imaging

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

Green, Tyler; Kuznetsov, Ilya; Willingham, David

The purpose of this research was to characterize Extreme Ultraviolet Time-of-Flight (EUV TOF) Laser Ablation Mass Spectrometry for high spatial resolution elemental and isotopic analysis. We compare EUV TOF results with Secondary Ionization Mass Spectrometry (SIMS) to orient the EUV TOF method within the overall field of analytical mass spectrometry. Using the well-characterized NIST 61x glasses, we show that the EUV ionization approach produces relatively few molecular ion interferences in comparison to TOF SIMS. We demonstrate that the ratio of element ion to element oxide ion is adjustable with EUV laser pulse energy and that the EUV TOF instrument hasmore » a sample utilization efficiency of 0.014%. The EUV TOF system also achieves a lateral resolution of 80 nm and we demonstrate this lateral resolution with isotopic imaging of closely spaced particles or uranium isotopic standard materials.« less

[Variation characteristics and environmental significant of trace elements under rainfall condition in karst groundwater].

PubMed

Chen, Xue-Bin; Yang, Ping-Heng; Lan, Jia-Cheng; Mo, Xue; Shi, Yang

2014-01-01

Chemical dynamics of Qingmuguan karst groundwater system were continuously monitored during the rainfall events. A series of high-resolution concentrations data on trace elements, such as barium, strontium, iron, manganese, aluminum, and other major elements were acquired. Correlation analysis and analysis of concentration curve were employed to identify the sources and migration path of the trace elements. And the formation process of trace elements in groundwater was discussed with the geological background of underground river basin. Research shows that barium and strontium derived from carbonate dissolution appeared to be stored in features such as fissures and pores. These two ions were recharged into the underground river by diffusion during precipitation, which resulted in small changes in the their concentration. However total iron, total manganese and aluminum derived from soil erosion varied relatively widely with strong response to rainfall, attributing to the migration of total iron and aluminum with overland flow to recharge the subterranean river directly via sinkholes while total manganese via soil-rock porous media. The results showed that concentrations of all the five trace elements were below 1 mg x L(-1), and the highest concentrations of total iron, total manganese and aluminum exceeded the limit of drinking water. To some extent, the concentrations of total iron and aluminum may be an indicator for soil erosion and water quality.

Real-time dose computation: GPU-accelerated source modeling and superposition/convolution

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

Jacques, Robert; Wong, John; Taylor, Russell

Purpose: To accelerate dose calculation to interactive rates using highly parallel graphics processing units (GPUs). Methods: The authors have extended their prior work in GPU-accelerated superposition/convolution with a modern dual-source model and have enhanced performance. The primary source algorithm supports both focused leaf ends and asymmetric rounded leaf ends. The extra-focal algorithm uses a discretized, isotropic area source and models multileaf collimator leaf height effects. The spectral and attenuation effects of static beam modifiers were integrated into each source's spectral function. The authors introduce the concepts of arc superposition and delta superposition. Arc superposition utilizes separate angular sampling for themore » total energy released per unit mass (TERMA) and superposition computations to increase accuracy and performance. Delta superposition allows single beamlet changes to be computed efficiently. The authors extended their concept of multi-resolution superposition to include kernel tilting. Multi-resolution superposition approximates solid angle ray-tracing, improving performance and scalability with a minor loss in accuracy. Superposition/convolution was implemented using the inverse cumulative-cumulative kernel and exact radiological path ray-tracing. The accuracy analyses were performed using multiple kernel ray samplings, both with and without kernel tilting and multi-resolution superposition. Results: Source model performance was <9 ms (data dependent) for a high resolution (400{sup 2}) field using an NVIDIA (Santa Clara, CA) GeForce GTX 280. Computation of the physically correct multispectral TERMA attenuation was improved by a material centric approach, which increased performance by over 80%. Superposition performance was improved by {approx}24% to 0.058 and 0.94 s for 64{sup 3} and 128{sup 3} water phantoms; a speed-up of 101-144x over the highly optimized Pinnacle{sup 3} (Philips, Madison, WI) implementation. Pinnacle{sup 3} times were 8.3 and 94 s, respectively, on an AMD (Sunnyvale, CA) Opteron 254 (two cores, 2.8 GHz). Conclusions: The authors have completed a comprehensive, GPU-accelerated dose engine in order to provide a substantial performance gain over CPU based implementations. Real-time dose computation is feasible with the accuracy levels of the superposition/convolution algorithm.« less

Applications of absorption spectroscopy using quantum cascade lasers.

PubMed

Zhang, Lizhu; Tian, Guang; Li, Jingsong; Yu, Benli

2014-01-01

Infrared laser absorption spectroscopy (LAS) is a promising modern technique for sensing trace gases with high sensitivity, selectivity, and high time resolution. Mid-infrared quantum cascade lasers, operating in a pulsed or continuous wave mode, have potential as spectroscopic sources because of their narrow linewidths, single mode operation, tunability, high output power, reliability, low power consumption, and compactness. This paper reviews some important developments in modern laser absorption spectroscopy based on the use of quantum cascade laser (QCL) sources. Among the various laser spectroscopic methods, this review is focused on selected absorption spectroscopy applications of QCLs, with particular emphasis on molecular spectroscopy, industrial process control, combustion diagnostics, and medical breath analysis.

SU-D-9A-01: Listmode-Driven Optimal Gating (OG) Respiratory Motion Management: Potential Impact On Quantitative PET Imaging

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

Lee, K; Hristov, D

2014-06-01

Purpose: To evaluate the potential impact of listmode-driven amplitude based optimal gating (OG) respiratory motion management technique on quantitative PET imaging. Methods: During the PET acquisitions, an optical camera tracked and recorded the motion of a tool placed on top of patients' torso. PET event data were utilized to detect and derive a motion signal that is directly coupled with a specific internal organ. A radioactivity-trace was generated from listmode data by accumulating all prompt counts in temporal bins matching the sampling rate of the external tracking device. Decay correction for 18F was performed. The image reconstructions using OG respiratorymore » motion management technique that uses 35% of total radioactivity counts within limited motion amplitudes were performed with external motion and radioactivity traces separately with ordered subset expectation maximization (OSEM) with 2 iterations and 21 subsets. Standard uptake values (SUVs) in a tumor region were calculated to measure the effect of using radioactivity trace for motion compensation. Motion-blurred 3D static PET image was also reconstructed with all counts and the SUVs derived from OG images were compared with SUVs from 3D images. Results: A 5.7 % increase of the maximum SUV in the lesion was found for optimal gating image reconstruction with radioactivity trace when compared to a static 3D image. The mean and maximum SUVs on the image that was reconstructed with radioactivity trace were found comparable (0.4 % and 4.5 % increase, respectively) to the values derived from the image that was reconstructed with external trace. Conclusion: The image reconstructed using radioactivity trace showed that the blurring due to the motion was reduced with impact on derived SUVs. The resolution and contrast of the images reconstructed with radioactivity trace were comparable to the resolution and contrast of the images reconstructed with external respiratory traces. Research supported by Siemens.« less

The Research on Lucalibration of GF-4 Satellite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qi, W.; Tan, W.

2018-04-01

Starting from the lunar observation requirements of the GF-4 satellite, the main index such as the resolution, the imaging field, the reflect radiance and the imaging integration time are analyzed combined with the imaging features and parameters of this camera. The analysis results show that the lunar observation of GF-4 satellite has high resolution, wide field which can image the whole moon, the radiance of the pupil which is reflected by the moon is within the dynamic range of the camera, and the lunar image quality can be guaranteed better by setting up a reasonable integration time. At the same time, the radiation transmission model of the lunar radiation calibration is trace and the radiation degree is evaluated.

Immersive Molecular Visualization with Omnidirectional Stereoscopic Ray Tracing and Remote Rendering

PubMed Central

Stone, John E.; Sherman, William R.; Schulten, Klaus

2016-01-01

Immersive molecular visualization provides the viewer with intuitive perception of complex structures and spatial relationships that are of critical interest to structural biologists. The recent availability of commodity head mounted displays (HMDs) provides a compelling opportunity for widespread adoption of immersive visualization by molecular scientists, but HMDs pose additional challenges due to the need for low-latency, high-frame-rate rendering. State-of-the-art molecular dynamics simulations produce terabytes of data that can be impractical to transfer from remote supercomputers, necessitating routine use of remote visualization. Hardware-accelerated video encoding has profoundly increased frame rates and image resolution for remote visualization, however round-trip network latencies would cause simulator sickness when using HMDs. We present a novel two-phase rendering approach that overcomes network latencies with the combination of omnidirectional stereoscopic progressive ray tracing and high performance rasterization, and its implementation within VMD, a widely used molecular visualization and analysis tool. The new rendering approach enables immersive molecular visualization with rendering techniques such as shadows, ambient occlusion lighting, depth-of-field, and high quality transparency, that are particularly helpful for the study of large biomolecular complexes. We describe ray tracing algorithms that are used to optimize interactivity and quality, and we report key performance metrics of the system. The new techniques can also benefit many other application domains. PMID:27747138

Detection of Matrix Elements and Trace Impurities in Cu(In, Ga)Se2 Photovoltaic Absorbers Using Surface Analytical Techniques.

PubMed

Kim, Min Jung; Lee, Jihye; Kim, Seon Hee; Kim, Haidong; Lee, Kang-Bong; Lee, Yeonhee

2015-10-01

Chalcopyrite Cu(In, Ga)Se2 (CIGS) thin films are well known as the next-generation solar cell materials notable for their high absorption coefficient for solar radiation, suitable band gap, and ability for deposition on flexible substrate materials, allowing the production of highly flexible and lightweight solar panels. To improve solar cell performances, a quantitative and depth-resolved elemental analysis of photovoltaic thin films is much needed. In this study, Cu(In, Ga)Se2 thin films were prepared on molybdenum back contacts deposited on soda-lime glass substrates via three-stage evaporation. Surface analyses via AES and SIMS were used to characterize the CIGS thin films and compare their depth profiles. We determined the average concentration of the matrix elements, Cu, In, Ga, and Se, using ICP-AES, XRF, and EPMA. We also obtained depth profiling results using TOF-SIMS, magnetic sector SIMS and AES, and APT, a sub-nanometer resolution characterization technique that enables three-dimensional elemental mapping. The SIMS technique, with its high detection limit and ability to obtain the profiles of elements in parallel, is a powerful tool for monitoring trace elements in CIGS thin films. To identify impurities in a CIGS layer, the distribution of trace elements was also observed according to depth by SIMS and APT.

A pitfall of muting and removing bad traces in surface-wave analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Yue; Xia, Jianghai; Mi, Binbin; Cheng, Feng; Shen, Chao

2018-06-01

Multi-channel analysis of surface/Love wave (MASW/MALW) has been widely used to construct the shallow shear (S)-wave velocity profile. The key step in surface-wave analysis is to generate accurate dispersion energy and pick the dispersive curves for inversion along the peaks of dispersion energy at different frequencies. In near-surface surface-wave acquisition, bad traces are very common and inevitable due to the imperfections in the recording instruments or others. The existence of bad traces will cause some artifacts in the dispersion energy image. To avoid the interference of bad traces on the surface-wave analysis, the bad traces should be alternatively muted (zeroed) or removed (deleted) from the raw surface-wave data before dispersion measurement. Most geophysicists and civil engineers, however, are not aware of the differences and implications between muting and removing of bad traces in surface-wave analysis. A synthetic test and a real-world example demonstrate the potential pitfalls of applying muting and removing on bad traces when using different dispersion-imaging methods. We implement muting and removing on bad traces respectively before dispersion measurement, and compare the influence of the two operations on three dispersion-imaging methods, high-resolution linear Radon transform (HRLRT), f-k transformation, and phase shift method. Results indicate that when using the HRLRT to generate the dispersive energy, muting bad traces will cause an even more complicated and discontinuous dispersive energy. When f-k transformation is utilized to conduct dispersive analysis, bad traces should be muted instead of removed to generate an accurate dispersion image to avoid the uneven sampling problem in the Fourier transform. As for the phase shift method, the difference between the two operations is slight, but we suggest that removal should be chosen because the integral for the phase-shift operator of the zeroed traces would bring in the sloped aliasing. This study provides a pre-process guidance for the real-world surface-wave data processing when the recorded shot gather contains inevitable bad traces.

Reconstitution radicicol containing apolipoprotein B lipoparticle and tracing its cell uptake process by super resolution fluorescent microscopy.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Chung Ching; Lin, Po-Yen; Chang, Chia-Ching

Apolipoprotein B (apoB) is the only protein of LDL. LDL delivers cholesterol, triacylglycerides and lipids to the target cells. Reconstitute apoB lipoparticle (rABL) will be an idea drug delivery vehicle for hydrophobic and amphiphilic materials delivery. It is challenged to renature ApoB into its functional state from denatured state. By using modified bile salt and radicicol (Rad) added over-critical refolding process, apoB can be restored into its native like state. The intrinsic fluorescence of apoB increased during the refolding process. Moreover, radicicol (Rad) molecules have been encapsulated into reconstitute rABL (Rad@rABL). To investigate the cell uptake mechanism of Rad@rABL, a super resolution ground state depletion (GSD) microscopy is used in this research. Fluorescence labeled Rad@rABL can be traced within the tumor cell. Key words: LDL, radicicol, protein refolding, super resolution microscopy.

A high-resolution time-depth view of dimethylsulphide cycling in the surface sea

PubMed Central

Royer, S.-J.; Galí, M.; Mahajan, A. S.; Ross, O. N.; Pérez, G. L.; Saltzman, E. S.; Simó, R.

2016-01-01

Emission of the trace gas dimethylsulphide (DMS) from the ocean influences the chemical and optical properties of the atmosphere, and the olfactory landscape for foraging marine birds, turtles and mammals. DMS concentration has been seen to vary across seasons and latitudes with plankton taxonomy and activity, and following the seascape of ocean’s physics. However, whether and how does it vary at the time scales of meteorology and day-night cycles is largely unknown. Here we used high-resolution measurements over time and depth within coherent water patches in the open sea to show that DMS concentration responded rapidly but resiliently to mesoscale meteorological perturbation. Further, it varied over diel cycles in conjunction with rhythmic photobiological indicators in phytoplankton. Combining data and modelling, we show that sunlight switches and tunes the balance between net biological production and abiotic losses. This is an outstanding example of how biological diel rhythms affect biogeochemical processes. PMID:27578300

Infrared-Bright Interacting Galaxies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rojas Ruiz, Sofia; Murphy, Eric Joseph; Armus, Lee; Smith, John-David; Bradford, Charles Matt; Stierwalt, Sabrina

2018-01-01

We present the mid-infrared spectral mapping of eight LIRG-class interacting galaxies: NGC 6670, NGC 7592, IIZw 96, IIIZw 35, Arp 302, Arp 236, Arp 238, Arp 299. The properties of galaxy mergers, which are bright and can be studied at high resolutions at low-z, provide local analogs for sources that may be important contributors to the Far Infrared Background (FIRB.) In order to study star formation and the physical conditions in the gas and dust in our sample galaxies, we used the Spitzer InfraRed Spectrograph (IRS) to map the galaxies over the 5-35 μm window to trace the PAH, molecular hydrogen, and atomic fine structure line emission on scales of 1.4 – 5.3 kpc. Here we present the reduction for low and high-resolution data, and preliminary results in the analysis of fine structure line ratios and dust features in the two nuclei and interacting regions from one of our sample galaxies, NGC 6670.

A high-resolution time-depth view of dimethylsulphide cycling in the surface sea

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Royer, S.-J.; Galí, M.; Mahajan, A. S.; Ross, O. N.; Pérez, G. L.; Saltzman, E. S.; Simó, R.

2016-08-01

Emission of the trace gas dimethylsulphide (DMS) from the ocean influences the chemical and optical properties of the atmosphere, and the olfactory landscape for foraging marine birds, turtles and mammals. DMS concentration has been seen to vary across seasons and latitudes with plankton taxonomy and activity, and following the seascape of ocean’s physics. However, whether and how does it vary at the time scales of meteorology and day-night cycles is largely unknown. Here we used high-resolution measurements over time and depth within coherent water patches in the open sea to show that DMS concentration responded rapidly but resiliently to mesoscale meteorological perturbation. Further, it varied over diel cycles in conjunction with rhythmic photobiological indicators in phytoplankton. Combining data and modelling, we show that sunlight switches and tunes the balance between net biological production and abiotic losses. This is an outstanding example of how biological diel rhythms affect biogeochemical processes.

Laser ablation surface-enhanced Raman microspectroscopy.

PubMed

Londero, Pablo S; Lombardi, John R; Leona, Marco

2013-06-04

Improved identification of trace organic compounds in complex matrixes is critical for a variety of fields such as material science, heritage science, and forensics. Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) is a vibrational spectroscopy technique that can attain single-molecule sensitivity and has been shown to complement mass spectrometry, but lacks widespread application without a robust method that utilizes the effect. We demonstrate a new, highly sensitive, and widely applicable approach to SERS analysis based on laser ablation in the presence of a tailored plasmonic substrate. We analyze several challenging compounds, including non-water-soluble pigments and dyed leather from an ancient Egyptian chariot, achieving sensitivity as high as 120 amol for a 1:1 signal-to-noise ratio and 5 μm spatial resolution. This represents orders of magnitude improvement in spatial resolution and sensitivity compared to those of other SERS approaches intended for widespread application, greatly increasing the applicability of SERS.

High-Speed PLIF Imaging of Hypersonic Transition over Discrete Cylindrical Roughness

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Danehy, P. M.; Ivey, C. B.; Inman, J. A.; Bathel, B. F.; Jones, S. B.; McCrea, A. C.; Jiang, N.; Webster, M.; Lempert, W.; Miller, J.;

Nitrosamines in cured meat products.

PubMed

Sen, N P; Iyengar, J R; Miles, W F; Panalaks, T

1976-01-01

One hundred samples of specially selected spiced meat products (sausages, salami, bologna, wieners, meat loaf, canned luncheon mean, etc) were analysed for nitrate, nitrite and volatile nitrosamines. None of the samples contained high levels of nitrosamines, but many contained traces, generally in the range from 2-50 mug/kg. Some contained as many as four nitrosamines, namely, NDMA, NDEA, NPip and NPy. In a few cases the samples were reanalysed after two weeks' storage at 4 or -20 degrees C, but no significant change in the nitrosamine levels could be detected. The identity of the nitrosamines was confirmed by GLC-high-resolution-MS.

Performance comparison of single and dual-excitation-wavelength resonance-Raman explosives detectors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yellampalle, Balakishore; Martin, Robert; Witt, Kenneth; McCormick, William; Wu, Hai-Shan; Sluch, Mikhail; Ice, Robert; Lemoff, Brian

2017-05-01

Deep-ultraviolet Raman spectroscopy is a very useful approach for standoff detection of explosive traces. Using two simultaneous excitation wavelengths improves the specificity and sensitivity to standoff explosive detection. The High Technology Foundation developed a highly compact prototype of resonance Raman explosives detector. In this work, we discuss the relative performance of a dual-excitation sensor compared to a single-excitation sensor. We present trade space analysis comparing three representative Raman systems with similar size, weight, and power. The analysis takes into account, cost, spectral resolution, detection/identification time and the overall system benefit.

Multi-scale approaches for high-speed imaging and analysis of large neural populations

PubMed Central

Ahrens, Misha B.; Yuste, Rafael; Peterka, Darcy S.; Paninski, Liam

2017-01-01

Progress in modern neuroscience critically depends on our ability to observe the activity of large neuronal populations with cellular spatial and high temporal resolution. However, two bottlenecks constrain efforts towards fast imaging of large populations. First, the resulting large video data is challenging to analyze. Second, there is an explicit tradeoff between imaging speed, signal-to-noise, and field of view: with current recording technology we cannot image very large neuronal populations with simultaneously high spatial and temporal resolution. Here we describe multi-scale approaches for alleviating both of these bottlenecks. First, we show that spatial and temporal decimation techniques based on simple local averaging provide order-of-magnitude speedups in spatiotemporally demixing calcium video data into estimates of single-cell neural activity. Second, once the shapes of individual neurons have been identified at fine scale (e.g., after an initial phase of conventional imaging with standard temporal and spatial resolution), we find that the spatial/temporal resolution tradeoff shifts dramatically: after demixing we can accurately recover denoised fluorescence traces and deconvolved neural activity of each individual neuron from coarse scale data that has been spatially decimated by an order of magnitude. This offers a cheap method for compressing this large video data, and also implies that it is possible to either speed up imaging significantly, or to “zoom out” by a corresponding factor to image order-of-magnitude larger neuronal populations with minimal loss in accuracy or temporal resolution. PMID:28771570

Trace elements in early phase type 2 diabetes mellitus-A population-based study. The HUNT study in Norway.

PubMed

Hansen, Ailin Falkmo; Simić, Anica; Åsvold, Bjørn Olav; Romundstad, Pål Richard; Midthjell, Kristian; Syversen, Tore; Flaten, Trond Peder

2017-03-01

Differences in trace elements levels between individuals with type 2 diabetes and controls have been reported in several studies in various body fluids and tissues, but results have been inconsistent. In order to examine trace element levels in the early phase of type 2 diabetes, we investigated the association between whole blood levels of 26 trace elements and the prevalence of previously undiagnosed, screening-detected type 2 diabetes. The study was conducted as a case-control study nested within the third survey of the population-based Nord-Trøndelag Health Study (HUNT3 Survey). Among participants without previously known diabetes, 128 cases of type 2 diabetes were diagnosed in people with a high diabetes risk score (FINDRISC≥15), and frequency-matched for age and sex with 755 controls. Blood samples were analyzed by high resolution inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Associations between trace element levels and the prevalence of previously undiagnosed type 2 diabetes were evaluated with multivariable conditional logistic regression controlling for age, sex, body mass index, waist-to-hip ratio, education, income, smoking and family history of diabetes. The prevalence of previously undiagnosed type 2 diabetes increased across tertiles/quartiles for cadmium, chromium, iron, nickel, silver and zinc, and decreased with increasing quartiles of bromine (P trend <0.05). After corrections for multiple testing, associations for chromium remained significant (Q trend <0.05), while associations for iron and silver were borderline significant. No associations were found for arsenic, boron, calcium, cesium, copper, gallium, gold, indium, lead, magnesium, manganese, mercury, molybdenum, rubidium, selenium, strontium, tantalum, thallium and tin. Our results suggest a possible role of bromine, cadmium, chromium, iron, nickel, silver and zinc in the development of type 2 diabetes. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

New Possibilities for the Accurate in Situ Determination of Chalcophile and Siderophile Trace Elements by Laser Ablation Collision and Reaction Cell ICP-MS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mason, P. R.

2004-05-01

Our knowledge of how chalcophile and siderophile elements partition in minerals is limited, mainly due to the lack of suitable techniques for their accurate in situ determination. Host minerals (e.g. sulphides) are typically of small size (<30 μ m) and highly heterogeneous in composition, requiring analysis of high spatial resolution. Concentrations of chalcophile elements in silicates and oxides are low (sub μ gg-1) and thus challenging to measure. Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS), offering high sensitivity and good spatial resolution (10-100 μ m) is thus highly suited for this purpose. Unfortunately, the widespread use of this technique has been limited by enhanced problems specific to chalcophile and siderophile elements. These include inaccuracy due to the presence of spectral interferences, elemental fractionation during ablation/ionization and the lack of suitable calibration standards. Polyatomic spectral interferences, present either as a background component (e.g. O2+, ArAr+) or based around the recombination of matrix elements with argon (e.g. ArS+, ArNi+) hinder accurate analysis. These depend upon the relative concentrations of major matrix components and trace elements to be measured and are significant in many relevant minerals (e.g. sulphides). The use of a collision and reaction cells in ICP-MS is a new method for selective interference attenuation, significantly improving detection limits for elements such as Fe, S and Se by between 1 and 4 orders of magnitude. ArNi+ and ArCu+ interferences in sulphides can be attenuated by at least an order of magnitude leading to improved accuracy for the measurement of the Platinum Group elements Rh and Ru. Sulphur isotopes can be measured interference-free at m/z=32 and 34 by eliminating background O2+. These improvements open up new possibilities for the use of LA-ICP-MS in trace element and isotopic studies at the lowest concentration levels or where sample preparation creates additional problems (e.g. NiS fire assay beads). I will give examples of applications for this technique in the study of ore minerals, meteorites and precipitates from hydrothermal vents.

Spatial resolution recovery utilizing multi-ray tracing and graphic processing unit in PET image reconstruction.

PubMed

Liang, Yicheng; Peng, Hao

2015-02-07

Depth-of-interaction (DOI) poses a major challenge for a PET system to achieve uniform spatial resolution across the field-of-view, particularly for small animal and organ-dedicated PET systems. In this work, we implemented an analytical method to model system matrix for resolution recovery, which was then incorporated in PET image reconstruction on a graphical processing unit platform, due to its parallel processing capacity. The method utilizes the concepts of virtual DOI layers and multi-ray tracing to calculate the coincidence detection response function for a given line-of-response. The accuracy of the proposed method was validated for a small-bore PET insert to be used for simultaneous PET/MR breast imaging. In addition, the performance comparisons were studied among the following three cases: 1) no physical DOI and no resolution modeling; 2) two physical DOI layers and no resolution modeling; and 3) no physical DOI design but with a different number of virtual DOI layers. The image quality was quantitatively evaluated in terms of spatial resolution (full-width-half-maximum and position offset), contrast recovery coefficient and noise. The results indicate that the proposed method has the potential to be used as an alternative to other physical DOI designs and achieve comparable imaging performances, while reducing detector/system design cost and complexity.

The Alba ray tracing code: ART

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nicolas, Josep; Barla, Alessandro; Juanhuix, Jordi

2013-09-01

The Alba ray tracing code (ART) is a suite of Matlab functions and tools for the ray tracing simulation of x-ray beamlines. The code is structured in different layers, which allow its usage as part of optimization routines as well as an easy control from a graphical user interface. Additional tools for slope error handling and for grating efficiency calculations are also included. Generic characteristics of ART include the accumulation of rays to improve statistics without memory limitations, and still providing normalized values of flux and resolution in physically meaningful units.

Ray-tracing as a tool for efficient specification of beamline optical components

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pedreira, P.; Sics, I.; Llonch, M.; Ladrera, J.; Ribó, Ll.; Colldelram, C.; Nicolas, J.

2016-09-01

We propose a method to determine the required performances of the positioning mechanics of the optical elements of a beamline. Generally, when designing and specifying a beamline, one assumes that the position and orientations of the optical elements should be aligned to its ideal position. For this, one would generally require six degrees of freedom per optical element. However, this number is reduced due to symmetries (e.g. a flat mirror does not care about yaw). Generally, one ends up by motorizing many axes, with high resolution and a large motion range. On the other hand, the diagnostics available at a beamline provide much less variables than the available motions. Moreover, the actual parameters that one wants to optimize are reduced to a very few. These are basically, spot size and size at the sample, flux, and spectral resolution. The result is that many configurations of the beamline are actually equivalent, and therefore indistinguishable from the ideal alignment in terms of performance.We propose a method in which the effect of misalignment of each one of the degrees of freedom of the beamline is scanned by ray tracing. This allows building a linear system in which one can identify and select the best set of motions to control the relevant parameters of the beam. Once the model is built it provides the required optical pseudomotors as well as the requirements in alignment and manufacturing, for all the motions, as well as the range, resolution and repeatability of the motorized axes.

Wave-current interaction study in the Gulf of Alaska for detection of eddies by synthetic aperture radar

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Liu, Antony K.; Peng, Chich Y.; Schumacher, James D.

1994-01-01

High resolution Esa Remote Sensing Satellite-1 (ERS-1) Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) images are used to detect a mesoscale eddy. Such features limit dispersal of pollock larvae and therefore likely influence recruitment of fish in the Gulf of Alaska. During high sea states and high winds, the direct surface signature of the eddy was not clearly visible, but the wave refraction in the eddy area was observed. The rays of the wave field are traced out directly from the SAR image. The ray pattern gives information on the refraction pattern and on the relative variation of the wave energy along a ray through wave current interaction. These observations are simulated by a ray-tracing model which incorporates a surface current field associated with the eddy. The numerical results of the model show that the waves are refracted and diverge in the eddy field with energy density decreasing. The model-data comparison for each ray shows the model predictions are in good agreement with the SAR data.

Medical imaging feasibility in body fluids using Markov chains

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kavehrad, M.; Armstrong, A. D.

2017-02-01

A relatively wide field-of-view and high resolution imaging is necessary for navigating the scope within the body, inspecting tissue, diagnosing disease, and guiding surgical interventions. As the large number of modes available in the multimode fibers (MMF) provides higher resolution, MMFs could replace the millimeters-thick bundles of fibers and lenses currently used in endoscopes. However, attributes of body fluids and obscurants such as blood, impose perennial limitations on resolution and reliability of optical imaging inside human body. To design and evaluate optimum imaging techniques that operate under realistic body fluids conditions, a good understanding of the channel (medium) behavior is necessary. In most prior works, Monte-Carlo Ray Tracing (MCRT) algorithm has been used to analyze the channel behavior. This task is quite numerically intensive. The focus of this paper is on investigating the possibility of simplifying this task by a direct extraction of state transition matrices associated with standard Markov modeling from the MCRT computer simulations programs. We show that by tracing a photon's trajectory in the body fluids via a Markov chain model, the angular distribution can be calculated by simple matrix multiplications. We also demonstrate that the new approach produces result that are close to those obtained by MCRT and other known methods. Furthermore, considering the fact that angular, spatial, and temporal distributions of energy are inter-related, mixing time of Monte- Carlo Markov Chain (MCMC) for different types of liquid concentrations is calculated based on Eigen-analysis of the state transition matrix and possibility of imaging in scattering media are investigated. To this end, we have started to characterize the body fluids that reduce the resolution of imaging [1].

CHIMPS: the 13CO/C18O (J = 3 → 2) Heterodyne Inner Milky Way Plane Survey

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rigby, A. J.; Moore, T. J. T.; Plume, R.; Eden, D. J.; Urquhart, J. S.; Thompson, M. A.; Mottram, J. C.; Brunt, C. M.; Butner, H. M.; Dempsey, J. T.; Gibson, S. J.; Hatchell, J.; Jenness, T.; Kuno, N.; Longmore, S. N.; Morgan, L. K.; Polychroni, D.; Thomas, H.; White, G. J.; Zhu, M.

2016-03-01

We present the 13CO/C18O (J = 3 → 2) Heterodyne Inner Milky Way Plane Survey (CHIMPS) which has been carried out using the Heterodyne Array Receiver Program on the 15 m James Clerk Maxwell Telescope (JCMT) in Hawaii. The high-resolution spectral survey currently covers |b| ≤ 0.5° and 28° ≲ l ≲ 46°, with an angular resolution of 15 arcsec in 0.5 km s-1 velocity channels. The spectra have a median rms of ˜0.6 K at this resolution, and for optically thin gas at an excitation temperature of 10 K, this sensitivity corresponds to column densities of NH2 ˜ 3 × 1020 cm-2 and NH2 ˜ 4 × 1021 cm-2 for 13CO and C18O, respectively. The molecular gas that CHIMPS traces is at higher column densities and is also more optically thin than in other publicly available CO surveys due to its rarer isotopologues, and thus more representative of the three-dimensional structure of the clouds. The critical density of the J = 3 → 2 transition of CO is ≳104 cm-3 at temperatures of ≤20 K, and so the higher density gas associated with star formation is well traced. These data complement other existing Galactic plane surveys, especially the JCMT Galactic Plane Survey which has similar spatial resolution and column density sensitivity, and the Herschel infrared Galactic Plane Survey. In this paper, we discuss the observations, data reduction and characteristics of the survey, presenting integrated-emission maps for the region covered. Position-velocity diagrams allow comparison with Galactic structure models of the Milky Way, and while we find good agreement with a particular four-arm model, there are some significant deviations.

Zooming into local active galactic nuclei: the power of combining SDSS-IV MaNGA with higher resolution integral field unit observations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wylezalek, Dominika; Schnorr Müller, Allan; Zakamska, Nadia L.; Storchi-Bergmann, Thaisa; Greene, Jenny E.; Müller-Sánchez, Francisco; Kelly, Michael; Liu, Guilin; Law, David R.; Barrera-Ballesteros, Jorge K.; Riffel, Rogemar A.; Thomas, Daniel

2017-05-01

Ionized gas outflows driven by active galactic nuclei (AGN) are ubiquitous in high-luminosity AGN with outflow speeds apparently correlated with the total bolometric luminosity of the AGN. This empirical relation and theoretical work suggest that in the range Lbol ˜ 1043-45 erg s-1 there must exist a threshold luminosity above which the AGN becomes powerful enough to launch winds that will be able to escape the galaxy potential. In this paper, we present pilot observations of two AGN in this transitional range that were taken with the Gemini North Multi-Object Spectrograph integral field unit (IFU). Both sources have also previously been observed within the Sloan Digital Sky Survey-IV (SDSS) Mapping Nearby Galaxies at Apache Point Observatory (MaNGA) survey. While the MaNGA IFU maps probe the gas fields on galaxy-wide scales and show that some regions are dominated by AGN ionization, the new Gemini IFU data zoom into the centre with four times better spatial resolution. In the object with the lower Lbol we find evidence of a young or stalled biconical AGN-driven outflow where none was obvious at the MaNGA resolution. In the object with the higher Lbol we trace the large-scale biconical outflow into the nuclear region and connect the outflow from small to large scales. These observations suggest that AGN luminosity and galaxy potential are crucial in shaping wind launching and propagation in low-luminosity AGN. The transition from small and young outflows to galaxy-wide feedback can only be understood by combining large-scale IFU data that trace the galaxy velocity field with higher resolution, small-scale IFU maps.

Spatial imaging in the soft x-ray region (20--304 A) utilizing the astigmatism of a grazing incidence concave grating

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

Nudelfuden, A.; Solanki, R.; Moos, H.W.

1985-03-15

Soft x-ray (20--304--A) astigmatic line shapes were measured in order to evaluate the spatial imaging properties of a Rowland mounted concave grating in grazing incidence. The practicability of coarse 1-D spatial imaging in the soft x-ray region is demonstrated. Spatial resolution equivalent to approx.4 cm at a source distance of 2 m can be achieved with practical parameters (e.g., sensitivity and time resolution) for a fusion diagnostic spectrograph. The results are compared to computer-generated ray tracings and found to be in good agreement. The ray tracing program which models the grazing incidence optics is discussed.

An Ice Core Melter System for Continuous Major and Trace Chemical Analyses of a New Mt. Logan Summit Ice Core

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Osterberg, E. C.; Handley, M. J.; Sneed, S. D.; Mayewski, P. A.; Kreutz, K. J.; Fisher, D. A.

2004-12-01

The ice core melter system at the University of Maine Climate Change Institute has been recently modified and updated to allow high-resolution (<1-2 cm ice/sample), continuous and coregistered sampling of ice cores, most notably the 2001 Mt. Logan summit ice core (187 m to bedrock), for analyses of 34 trace elements (Sr, Cd, Sb, Cs, Ba, Pb, Bi, U, As, Al, S, Ca, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Cu, Zn, REE suite) by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), 8 major ions (Na+, Ca2+, Mg2+, K+, Cl-, SO42-, NO3-, MSA) by ion chromatography (IC), stable water isotopes (δ 18O, δ D, d) and volcanic tephra. The UMaine continuous melter (UMCoM) system is housed in a dedicated clean room with HEPA filtered air. Standard clean room procedures are employed during melting. A Wagenbach-style continuous melter system has been modified to include a pure Nickel melthead that can be easily dismantled for thorough cleaning. The system allows melting of both ice and firn without wicking of the meltwater into unmelted core. Contrary to ice core melter systems in which the meltwater is directly channeled to online instruments for continuous flow analyses, the UMCoM system collects discrete samples for each chemical analysis under ultraclean conditions. Meltwater from the pristine innermost section of the ice core is split between one fraction collector that accumulates ICP-MS samples in acid pre-cleaned polypropylene vials under a class-100 HEPA clean bench, and a second fraction collector that accumulates IC samples. A third fraction collector accumulates isotope and tephra samples from the potentially contaminated outer portion of the core. This method is advantageous because an archive of each sample remains for subsequent analyses (including trace element isotope ratios), and ICP-MS analytes are scanned for longer intervals and in replicate. Method detection limits, calculated from de-ionized water blanks passed through the entire UMCoM system, are below 10% of average Mt. Logan values. A strong correlation (R2>0.9) between Ca and S concentrations measured on different fractions of the same sample by IC and ICP-MS validates sample coregistration. Preliminary analyses of data from the 2001 Mt. Logan summit ice core confirm subannual resolution sampling and annual scale variability of major and trace elements. Accumulation rate models and isotope data suggest that annual resolution will be possible to 1000-2000 y.b.p., with multi-annual to centennial resolution for the remainder of the Holocene and possibly including the last deglaciation. Dust proxy elements, including REEs, strongly co-vary in time-series and reveal concentration ratio fluctuations interpreted as source region changes. Volcanic eruptions are characterized by elevated concentrations of S, SO42-, Cu, Sb, Zn and other trace elements. Concentrations of potential anthropogenic contaminants are also discussed.

The EOS Aura Mission

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schoebert, Mark R.; Douglass, A. R.; Hilsenrath, E.; Bhartia, P. K.; Barnett, J.; Gille, J.; Beer, R.; Gunson, M.; Waters, J.; Levelt, P. F.

2004-01-01

The Earth Observing System (EOS) Aura satellite is scheduled to launch in the second quarter of 2004. The Aura mission is designed to attack three science questions: (1) Is the ozone layer recovering as expected? (2) What are the sources and processes that control tropospheric pollutants? (3) What is the quantitative impact of constituents on climate change? Aura will answer these questions by globally measuring a comprehensive set of trace gases and aerosols at high vertical and horizontal resolution. Fig. 1 shows the Aura spacecraft and its four instruments.

Measurement of H2O and other trace gases in the stratosphere using a high resolution far-infrared spectrometer at 28 KM

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Traub, W. A.; Chance, K. V.

1986-01-01

The highlights of the stratospheric program were reviewed for the past 2.5 years. The major efforts were analysis of the data from the BIC-2 campaign, and the building or new instrumentation to replace that lost at the end of BIC-2. For clarity, the review will be done by topic, rather than chronologically: construction of the initial far-infrared spectrometer, balloon slight program, laboratory measurement, data analysis, and duplicate stabilized platform.

Useful ion yields for Cameca IMS 3f and 6f SIMS: Limits on quantitative analysis

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hervig, R.L.; Mazdab, F.K.; Williams, Pat; Guan, Y.; Huss, G.R.; Leshin, L.A.

2006-01-01

The useful yields (ions detected/atom sputtered) of major and trace elements in NIST 610 glass were measured by secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) using Cameca IMS 3f and 6f instruments. Useful yields of positive ions at maximum transmission range from 10-4 to 0.2 and are negatively correlated with ionization potential. We quantified the decrease in useful yields when applying energy filtering or high mass resolution techniques to remove molecular interferences. The useful yields of selected negative ions (O, S, Au) in magnetite and pyrite were also determined. These data allow the analyst to determine if a particular analysis (trace element contents or isotopic ratio) can be achieved, given the amount of sample available and the conditions of the analysis. ?? 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Autonomous microexplosives subsurface tracing system final report.

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

Engler, Bruce Phillip; Nogan, John; Melof, Brian Matthew

The objective of the autonomous micro-explosive subsurface tracing system is to image the location and geometry of hydraulically induced fractures in subsurface petroleum reservoirs. This system is based on the insertion of a swarm of autonomous micro-explosive packages during the fracturing process, with subsequent triggering of the energetic material to create an array of micro-seismic sources that can be detected and analyzed using existing seismic receiver arrays and analysis software. The project included investigations of energetic mixtures, triggering systems, package size and shape, and seismic output. Given the current absence of any technology capable of such high resolution mapping ofmore » subsurface structures, this technology has the potential for major impact on petroleum industry, which spends approximately $1 billion dollar per year on hydraulic fracturing operations in the United States alone.« less

Electrical Identification and Selective Microstimulation of Neuronal Compartments Based on Features of Extracellular Action Potentials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Radivojevic, Milos; Jäckel, David; Altermatt, Michael; Müller, Jan; Viswam, Vijay; Hierlemann, Andreas; Bakkum, Douglas J.

2016-08-01

A detailed, high-spatiotemporal-resolution characterization of neuronal responses to local electrical fields and the capability of precise extracellular microstimulation of selected neurons are pivotal for studying and manipulating neuronal activity and circuits in networks and for developing neural prosthetics. Here, we studied cultured neocortical neurons by using high-density microelectrode arrays and optical imaging, complemented by the patch-clamp technique, and with the aim to correlate morphological and electrical features of neuronal compartments with their responsiveness to extracellular stimulation. We developed strategies to electrically identify any neuron in the network, while subcellular spatial resolution recording of extracellular action potential (AP) traces enabled their assignment to the axon initial segment (AIS), axonal arbor and proximal somatodendritic compartments. Stimulation at the AIS required low voltages and provided immediate, selective and reliable neuronal activation, whereas stimulation at the soma required high voltages and produced delayed and unreliable responses. Subthreshold stimulation at the soma depolarized the somatic membrane potential without eliciting APs.

Synthesis of urban greenhouse gas emission estimates from the Indianapolis Flux Experiment (INFLUX)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Turnbull, J. C.; Davis, K. J.; Deng, A.; Lauvaux, T.; Miles, N. L.; Richardson, S.; Sarmiento, D. P.; Wu, K.; Brewer, A.; Hardesty, R. M.; McKain, K.; Sweeney, C.; Gurney, K. R.; Liang, J.; O'Keeffe, D.; Patarasuk, R.; Cambaliza, M. O. L.; Harvey, R. M.; Heimburger, A. M. F.; Shepson, P. B.; Karion, A.; Lopez-Coto, I.; Prasad, K.; Whetstone, J. R.

2016-12-01

The Indianapolis Flux Experiment (INFLUX) is testing the boundaries of our ability to use atmospheric measurements to quantify urban greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The project brings together high-resolution (in both space and time) inventory assessments, a multi-year record of in situ CO2, CH4and CO from tower-based and aircraft-based atmospheric measurements along with a complementary suite of 35 trace gases and isotopes from flasks collected at the same sites, and atmospheric modelling. Together, these provide high-accuracy, high-resolution, continuous monitoring of emissions of GHGs from the city. Here we synthesize the results to date, and demonstrate broad agreement amongst city-wide emission rates determined from the various top-down and bottom-up methods. We highlight the areas where ongoing efforts are reducing uncertainties in the overall flux estimation, including accurate representation of atmospheric transport, partitioning of GHG source types and the influence of background atmospheric GHG mole fractions.

Tracing sources of nitrate in snowmelt runoff using a high-resolution isotopic technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ohte, N.; Sebestyen, S. D.; Shanley, J. B.; Doctor, D. H.; Kendall, C.; Wankel, S. D.; Boyer, E. W.

2004-11-01

The denitrifier method to determine the dual isotopic composition (δ15N and δ18O) of nitrate is well suited for studies of nitrogen contributions to streams during runoff events. This method requires only 70 nmol of NO3- and enables high throughput of samples. We studied nitrate sources to a headwater stream during snowmelt by generating a high-temporal resolution dataset at the Sleepers River Research Watershed in Vermont, USA. In the earliest phase of runoff, stream NO3- concentrations were highest and stream discharge, NO3- concentrations, and δ18O of NO3- generally tracked one another during diurnal melting. The isotopic composition of stream NO3- varied in-between atmospheric and groundwater NO3- end members indicating a direct contribution of atmospherically-derived NO3- from the snow pack to the stream. During the middle to late phases of snowmelt, the source shifted toward soil NO3- entering the stream via shallow subsurface flow paths.

Explorer of Enceladus and Titan (E2T): Investigating ocean worlds' evolution and habitability in the solar system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mitri, Giuseppe; Postberg, Frank; Soderblom, Jason M.; Wurz, Peter; Tortora, Paolo; Abel, Bernd; Barnes, Jason W.; Berga, Marco; Carrasco, Nathalie; Coustenis, Athena; Paul de Vera, Jean Pierre; D'Ottavio, Andrea; Ferri, Francesca; Hayes, Alexander G.; Hayne, Paul O.; Hillier, Jon K.; Kempf, Sascha; Lebreton, Jean-Pierre; Lorenz, Ralph D.; Martelli, Andrea; Orosei, Roberto; Petropoulos, Anastassios E.; Reh, Kim; Schmidt, Juergen; Sotin, Christophe; Srama, Ralf; Tobie, Gabriel; Vorburger, Audrey; Vuitton, Véronique; Wong, Andre; Zannoni, Marco

2018-06-01

Titan, with its organically rich and dynamic atmosphere and geology, and Enceladus, with its active plume, both harbouring global subsurface oceans, are prime environments in which to investigate the habitability of ocean worlds and the conditions for the emergence of life. We present a space mission concept, the Explorer of Enceladus and Titan (E2T), which is dedicated to investigating the evolution and habitability of these Saturnian satellites. E2T is proposed as a medium-class mission led by ESA in collaboration with NASA in response to ESA's M5 Cosmic Vision Call. E2T proposes a focused payload that would provide in-situ composition investigations and high-resolution imaging during multiple flybys of Enceladus and Titan using a solar-electric powered spacecraft in orbit around Saturn. The E2T mission would provide high-resolution mass spectrometry of the plume currently emanating from Enceladus' south polar terrain and of Titan's changing upper atmosphere. In addition, high-resolution infrared (IR) imaging would detail Titan's geomorphology at 50-100 m resolution and the temperature of the fractures on Enceladus' south polar terrain at meter resolution. These combined measurements of both Titan and Enceladus would enable the E2T mission scenario to achieve two major scientific goals: 1) Study the origin and evolution of volatile-rich ocean worlds; and 2) Explore the habitability and potential for life in ocean worlds. E2T's two high-resolution time-of-flight mass spectrometers would enable resolution of the ambiguities in chemical analysis left by the NASA/ESA/ASI Cassini-Huygens mission regarding the identification of low-mass organic species, detect high-mass organic species for the first time, further constrain trace species such as the noble gases, and clarify the evolution of solid and volatile species. The high-resolution IR camera would reveal the geology of Titan's surface and the energy dissipated by Enceladus' fractured south polar terrain and plume in detail unattainable by the Cassini mission.

Combined micro-Raman/UV-visible/fluorescence spectrometer for high-throughput analysis of microsamples.

PubMed

Noh, Jermim; Suh, Yung Doug; Park, Yong Ki; Jin, Seung Min; Kim, Soo Ho; Woo, Seong Ihl

2007-07-01

Combined micro-Raman/UV-visible (vis)/fluorescence spectroscopy system, which can evaluate an integrated array of more than 10,000 microsamples with a minimuma size of 5 microm within a few hours, has been developed for the first time. The array of microsamples is positioned on a computer-controlled XY translation microstage with a spatial resolution of 1 mum so that the spectra can be mapped with micron precision. Micro-Raman spectrometers have a high spectral resolution of about 2 cm(-1) over the wave number range of 150-3900 cm(-1), while UV-vis and fluorescence spectrometers have high spectral resolutions of 0.4 and 0.1 nm over the wavelength range of 190-900 nm, respectively. In particular, the signal-to-noise ratio of the micro-Raman spectroscopy has been improved by using a holographic Raman grating and a liquid-nitrogen-cooled charge-coupled device detector. The performance of the combined spectroscopy system has been demonstrated by the high-throughput screening of a combinatorial ferroelectric (i.e., BaTi(x)Zr(1-x)O(3)) library. This system makes possible the structure analysis of various materials including ferroelectrics, catalysts, phosphors, polymers, alloys, and so on for the development of novel materials and the ultrasensitive detection of trace amounts of pharmaceuticals and diagnostic agents.

Simultaneous elastic parameter inversion in 2-D/3-D TTI medium combined later arrival times

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bai, Chao-ying; Wang, Tao; Yang, Shang-bei; Li, Xing-wang; Huang, Guo-jiao

2016-04-01

Traditional traveltime inversion for anisotropic medium is, in general, based on a "weak" assumption in the anisotropic property, which simplifies both the forward part (ray tracing is performed once only) and the inversion part (a linear inversion solver is possible). But for some real applications, a general (both "weak" and "strong") anisotropic medium should be considered. In such cases, one has to develop a ray tracing algorithm to handle with the general (including "strong") anisotropic medium and also to design a non-linear inversion solver for later tomography. Meanwhile, it is constructive to investigate how much the tomographic resolution can be improved by introducing the later arrivals. For this motivation, we incorporated our newly developed ray tracing algorithm (multistage irregular shortest-path method) for general anisotropic media with a non-linear inversion solver (a damped minimum norm, constrained least squares problem with a conjugate gradient approach) to formulate a non-linear inversion solver for anisotropic medium. This anisotropic traveltime inversion procedure is able to combine the later (reflected) arrival times. Both 2-D/3-D synthetic inversion experiments and comparison tests show that (1) the proposed anisotropic traveltime inversion scheme is able to recover the high contrast anomalies and (2) it is possible to improve the tomographic resolution by introducing the later (reflected) arrivals, but not as expected in the isotropic medium, because the different velocity (qP, qSV and qSH) sensitivities (or derivatives) respective to the different elastic parameters are not the same but are also dependent on the inclination angle.

The Extreme Ultraviolet Normal Incidence Spectrograph (EUNIS)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Oegerle, William (Technical Monitor); Rabin, D.; Davila, J.; Thomas, R. J.; Engler, C.; Irish, S.; Keski-Kuha, R.; Novello, J.; Nowak, M.; Payne, L.;

The Ideological Architecture of Whiteness as Property in Educational Policy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Aggarwal, Ujju

2016-01-01

In this article, I follow federal policy mandates and educational policy narratives to trace the resolution to inequality that was constructed post-"Brown v. Board of Education," and what this resolution might tell us about the reconstitution of the racial state despite the extension of universal civil rights. I examine how the…

Study on geophone coupling and attenuating compensatory of low-depression velocity layer in desert area

USGS Publications Warehouse

Shi, Z.; Tian, G.; Dong, S.; Xia, J.; He, H.; ,

2004-01-01

In a desert area, it is difficult to couple geophones with dry sands. A low and depression velocity layer can seriously attenuate high frequency components of seismic data. Therefore, resolution and signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio of seismic data deteriorate. To enhance resolution and S/N ratio of seismic data, we designed a coupling compensatory inverse filter by using the single trace seismic data from Seismic Wave Detect System (SWDS) and common receivers on equal conditions. We designed an attenuating compensatory inverse filter by using seismic data from a microseismogram log. At last, in order to convert a shot gather from common receivers to a shot gather from SWDS, we applied the coupling compensatory inverse filter to the shot gather from common receivers. And then we applied the attenuating compensatory inverse filter to the coupling stacked seismic data to increase its resolution and S/N ratio. The results show that the resolution of seismic data from common receivers after processing by using the coupling compensatory inverse filter is nearly comparable with that of data from SWDS. It is also found that the resolution and S/N ratio have been enhanced after the use of attenuating compensatory inverse filter. From the results, we can conclude that the filters can compensate high frequencies of seismic data. Moreover, the low frequency changed nearly.

Determination of macro and trace elements in multivitamin dietary supplements by high-resolution continuum source graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry with slurry sampling.

PubMed

Krawczyk, Magdalena

2014-01-01

In this research, three different commercially available multivitamin dietary supplements were analyzed by high-resolution continuum source graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (HR-CS GFAAS) with slurry sampling. The concentrations of Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Se were determined and compared to the amounts stated by producers. The safety of multivitamin dietary supplements depends on various factors including the manufacturing process and the purity and origins of the raw ingredients. For this reason, this research determined concentrations of several toxic elements (As, Cd, and Pb). Microwave-assisted high pressure Teflon bomb digestion was used to determine total amounts of elements in samples. Samples were prepared as slurries at a concentration of 0.1% (m/v) for macro elements (Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Se) and at a concentration of % (m/v) for trace elements (As, Cd, and Pb) in acidic media (3M HNO3). The influence of acid concentration, Triton X-100 addition, sonication time, and sonication power on absorbance was investigated. The accuracy of this method was validated by analyses of NRCC LUTS-1 (Lobster hepatopancreas), NRCC DORM-1 (Dogfish Muscle), NRCC DOLT-2 (Dogfish Liver), NBS SRM 1570 (Spinach Leaves) and NBS SRM 1573 (Tomato Leaves) certified reference materials. The measured elements contents in these reference materials (except NRCC DOLT-2) were in satisfactory agreement with the certified values according to the t-test for a 95% confidence level. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Background contamination by coplanar polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in trace level high resolution gas chromatography/high resolution mass spectrometry (HRGC/HRMS) analytical procedures.

PubMed

Ferrario, J; Byrne, C; Dupuy, A E

1997-06-01

The addition of the "dioxin-like" polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congeners to the assessment of risk associated with the 2,3,7,8-chlorine substituted dioxins and furans has dramatically increased the number of laboratories worldwide that are developing analytical procedures for their detection and quantitation. Most of these procedures are based on established sample preparation and analytical techniques employing high resolution gas chromatography/high resolution mass spectrometry (HRGC/HRMS), which are used for the analyses of dioxin/furans at low parts-per-trillion (ppt) levels. A significant and widespread problem that arises when using these sample preparation procedures for the analysis of coplanar PCBs is the presence of background levels of these congeners. Industrial processes, urban incineration, leaking electrical transformers, hazardous waste accidents, and improper waste disposal practices have released appreciable quantities of PCBs into the environment. This contamination has resulted in the global distribution of these compounds via the atmosphere and their ubiquitous presence in ambient air. The background presence of these compounds in method blanks must be addressed when determining the exact concentrations of these and other congeners in environmental samples. In this study reliable procedures were developed to accurately define these background levels and assess their variability over the course of the study. The background subtraction procedures developed and employed increase the probability that the values reported accurately represent the concentrations found in the samples and were not biased due to this background contamination.

Background contamination by coplanar polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in trace level high resolution gas chromatography/high resolution mass spectrometry (HRGC/HRMS) analytical procedures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ferrario, J.; Byrne, C.; Dupuy, A. E. Jr

1997-01-01

The addition of the "dioxin-like" polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congeners to the assessment of risk associated with the 2,3,7,8-chlorine substituted dioxins and furans has dramatically increased the number of laboratories worldwide that are developing analytical procedures for their detection and quantitation. Most of these procedures are based on established sample preparation and analytical techniques employing high resolution gas chromatography/high resolution mass spectrometry (HRGC/HRMS), which are used for the analyses of dioxin/furans at low parts-per-trillion (ppt) levels. A significant and widespread problem that arises when using these sample preparation procedures for the analysis of coplanar PCBs is the presence of background levels of these congeners. Industrial processes, urban incineration, leaking electrical transformers, hazardous waste accidents, and improper waste disposal practices have released appreciable quantities of PCBs into the environment. This contamination has resulted in the global distribution of these compounds via the atmosphere and their ubiquitous presence in ambient air. The background presence of these compounds in method blanks must be addressed when determining the exact concentrations of these and other congeners in environmental samples. In this study reliable procedures were developed to accurately define these background levels and assess their variability over the course of the study. The background subtraction procedures developed and employed increase the probability that the values reported accurately represent the concentrations found in the samples and were not biased due to this background contamination.

High resolution trace element records from the deep sea hydrocoral Stylaster venustus: Implications for stylasterids as a paleoceanographic archive

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aranha, R. S.; Layne, G. D.; Edinger, E.; Piercey, G.

2009-12-01

Stylasterids are one of the lesser known groups of deep sea corals, but appear to have potential to serve as viable geochemical archives for reconstructing temperature, salinity and nutrient regimes in the deep ocean. This group of hydrocorals are present in most, if not all of the world’s major oceans. Stylasterid species dominantly have aragonitic skeletons, with a small percentage of species having calcitic skeletons (1). A recent study on the biomineralization of a deep sea stylasterid (Errina dabneyi) has revealed that during the organism’s growth, a steady dissolution and reprecipitation of skeletal material occurs in the central canals of the skeleton. This skeletal modification likely alters the stable isotope and/or trace element profiles of these corals, making them potentially less reliable as geochemical archives, depending on the scale of sampling (2). Recent specimens of Stylaster venustus were collected in July, 2008 from the Olympic Coast National Marine sanctuary off the coast of Washington at depths of 200 - 350 m. We used a Cameca IMS 4f Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometer (SIMS) to perform high spatial resolution (<25 µm) spot analyses of Sr/Ca, Mg/Ca and Na/Ca in detailed traverses across the basal cross-sections from three of these specimens. We identified the remineralized material by remnant porous texture and/or a substantially different trace element composition. Spot analyses corresponding to the remineralized material were eliminated from the dataset. In all three specimens we observed a pronounced inverse correlation (r = -0.36) of Mg/Ca and Sr/Ca profiles throughout the length of the transects . A positive correlation (r =0.46) between Na/Ca and Mg/Ca profiles was also noted in two of the specimens analyzed. These correlations strongly imply that the coral skeleton is recording either cyclical or episodic variations in temperature, with possible overprinting from other environmental variation. The exact relationship between the visible banding in the skeletal cross-section and any cyclicity of trace element profiles is currently ambiguous. However, our analyses demonstrate that microanalytical techniques are a viable means of extracting trace element records from these corals. Further statistical analysis of the trace element transects, in combination with a variety of imaging analyses of the same samples, should help us elucidate what portion of the geochemical signal is temperature dependent and what magnitude of temperature change is actually being recorded. Correlating these trace element profiles with instrumental temperature records will help confirm that useful geochemical archives are preserved by stylasterid skeletons. References: (1) Cairns SD and Macintyre IG. 1992. Phylogenetic implications of calcium carbonate mineralogy in the Stylasteridae (Cnidaria:Hydrozoa).Palaios 7: 96-107. (2) Wisshak M, López Correa M, Zibrowius H, Jakobsen J & Freiwald. (in press). Skeletal reorganisation affects geochemical signals, exemplified in the stylasterid hydrocoral Errina dabneyi (Azores Archipelago). Marine Ecology Progress Series.

Detailed history of atmospheric trace elements from the Quelccaya ice core (Southern Peru) during the last 1200 years

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Uglietti, C.; Gabrielli, P.; Thompson, L. G.

2013-12-01

The recent increase in trace element concentrations, for example Cr, Cu, Zn, Ag, Pb, Bi, and U, in polar snow and ice has provided compelling evidence of a hemispheric change in atmospheric composition since the nineteenth century. This change has been concomitant with the expansion of the Industrial Revolution and points towards an anthropogenic source of trace elements in the atmosphere. There are very few low latitude trace element ice core records and these are believed to be sensitive to perturbations of regional significance. To date, these records have not been used to document a preindustrial anthropogenic impact on atmospheric composition at low latitudes. Ice cores retrieved from the tropical Andes are particularly interesting because they have the potential to reveal detailed information about the evolution and environmental consequences of mineral exploitation related to the Pre Inca Civilizations, the Inca Empire (1438-1533 AD) and the subsequent Spanish invasion and dominance (1532-1833 AD). The chemical record preserved in the ice of the Quelccaya ice cap (southern Peruvian Andes) offers the exceptional opportunity to geochemically constrain the composition of the tropical atmosphere at high resolution over the last ~1200 years. Quantification of twenty trace elements (Ag, Al, As, Bi, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mo, Pb, Rb, Sb, Sn, Ti, Tl, U, V, and Zn) was performed by ICP-SFMS over 105 m of the Quelccaya North Dome core (5600 m asl, 128.57 m) by analyzing 2450 samples. This provides the first atmospheric trace element record in South America spanning continuously and at high resolution for the time period between 1990 and 790 AD. Ag, As, Bi, Cd, Cr, Co, Cu, Mn, Mo, Sb, Sn, Pb and Zn show increases in concentration and crustal enrichment factor starting at different times between 1450 and 1550 AD, in concomitance with the expansions of the Inca Empire and, subsequently, the Spanish Empire well before the inception of the Industrial Revolution. This indicates that there have been additional anthropogenic sources that have impacted the South American atmosphere during the past ~550 years. Furthermore, As, Bi and Pb record shows, the two most significant increases have occurred in the 20th century, one beginning in ~1905 AD and peaking in the 1920s and the second beginning in ~1955 AD and peaking in the 1970s. Comparison with other trace element records from Greenland and Antarctica reveals concomitant peaks of different amplitude in Pb concentration and crustal enrichment factor, possibly pointing to an unexpected larger than regional scale significance for the Quelccaya ice core record during the last century. In conclusion, the Quelccaya ice core indicates that societal and industrial development influenced the atmospheric composition in South America, from different large scale sources, during the last ~550 years. This is the first time that a low latitude ice core record has been used to reconstruct pre-industrial anthropogenic forcing on the atmosphere.

Evaluation of the reproducibility of a protocol for the pharmacokinetic study of breast tumors by dynamic magnetic resonance imaging.

PubMed

Etxano, J; García-Lallana Valbuena, A; Antón Ibáñez, I; Elizalde, A; Pina, L; García-Foncillas, J; Boni, V

2015-01-01

To evaluate the reproducibility of a protocol for dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) for the pharmacokinetic study of breast tumors. We carried out this prospective study from October 2009 through December 2009. We studied 12 patients with stage ii-iii invasive breast cancer without prior treatment. Our center's research ethics committee approved the study. The 12 patients underwent on two consecutive days DCE-MRI with a high temporal resolution protocol (21 acquisitions/minute). The data obtained in an ROI traced around the largest diameter of the tumor (ROI 1) and in another ROI traced around the area of the lesion's highest K(trans) intensity (ROI 2) were analyzed separately. We used parametric and nonparametric statistical tests to study the reproducibility and concordance of the principal pharmacokinetic variables (K(trans), Kep, Ve and AUC90). The correlations were very high (r>.80; P<.01) for all the variables for ROI 1 and high (r=.70-.80; P<.01) for all the variables for ROI 2, with the exception of Ve both in ROI 1 (r=.44; P=.07) and in ROI 2 (r=.13; P=.235). There were no statistically significant differences between the two studies in the values obtained for K(trans), Kep and AUC90 (P>.05 for each), but there was a statistically significant difference between the two studies in the values obtained for Ve in ROI 2 (P=.008). The high temporal resolution protocol for DCE-MRI used at out center is very reproducible for the principal pharmacokinetic constants of breast. Copyright © 2012 SERAM. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

A History of Professional Meetings of Seventh-Day Adventist Librarians Prior to the Formation of the Association of Seventh-Day Adventist Librarians.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brenneise, Harvey

This paper traces the history of professional meetings of Seventh-day Adventist Librarians from 1951 to 1976. It uses primary historical documents, primarily the proceedings of the various conferences, to trace the history of these meetings, the content of the papers presented, and the resolutions and actions taken. These meetings gave the…

Influences of organic matter and calcification rate on trace elements in aragonitic estuarine bivalve shells

USGS Publications Warehouse

Takesue, R.K.; Bacon, C.R.; Thompson, J.K.

2008-01-01

A suite of elements (B, Na, Mg, S, K, Ca, V, Mn, Cr, Sr, and Ba) was measured in aragonitic shells of the estuarine bivalve Corbula amurensis, the Asian clam, using the Sensitive High-Resolution Ion MicroProbe with Reverse Geometry (SHRIMP RG). Our initial intent was to explore potential geochemical proxy relationships between shell chemistry and salinity (freshwater inflow) in northern San Francisco Bay (SFB). In the course of this study we observed variations in shell trace element to calcium ([M]/Ca) ratios that could only be attributed to internal biological processes. This paper discusses the nature and sources of internal trace element variability in C. amurensis shells related to the shell organic fraction and shell calcification rates. The average organic content of whole C. amurensis shells is 19%. After treating whole powdered shells with an oxidative cleaning procedure to remove organic matter, shells contained on average 33% less total Mg and 78% less total Mn. Within our analytical uncertainty, Sr and Ba contents were unchanged by the removal of organic matter. These results show that aragonitic C. amurensis shells have a large component of non-lattice-bound Mg and Mn that probably contribute to the dissimilarity of [M]/Ca profiles among five same-sized shells. Non-lattice-bound trace elements could complicate the development and application of geochemical proxy relationships in bivalve shells. Because B, Ba and Sr occur exclusively in shell aragonite, they are good candidates for external proxy relationships. [M]/Ca ratios were significantly different in prismatic and nacreous aragonite and in two valves of the same shell that had different crystal growth rates. Some part of these differences can be attributed to non-lattice-bound trace elements associated with the organic fraction. The differences in [M]/Ca ratios were also consistent with the calcification rate-dependent ion transport model developed by Carr?? et al. [Carr?? M., Bentaleb I., Bruguier O., Ordinola E., Barrett N. T. and Fontugne M. (2006) Calcification rate influence on trace element concentrations in aragonitic bivalve shells: evidences and mechanisms. Geochim. Cosmochim. Acta 70, 4906-4920] which predicts that [M]/Ca ratios increase as calcification rates increase and Ca2+ channel specificity decreases. This result, in combination with the possibility that there were ontogenetic variations in growth rates among individuals younger than 2 years, underscores the need to develop an independent age model for C. amurensis shells. If growth-rate effects on lattice-bound [M]/Ca ratios can be constrained, it may yet be possible to develop high-resolution geochemical proxies for external solution chemistry in low-salinity regions of SFB.

High-resolution computed tomography of single breast cancer microcalcifications in vivo.

PubMed

Inoue, Kazumasa; Liu, Fangbing; Hoppin, Jack; Lunsford, Elaine P; Lackas, Christian; Hesterman, Jacob; Lenkinski, Robert E; Fujii, Hirofumi; Frangioni, John V

2011-08-01

Microcalcification is a hallmark of breast cancer and a key diagnostic feature for mammography. We recently described the first robust animal model of breast cancer microcalcification. In this study, we hypothesized that high-resolution computed tomography (CT) could potentially detect the genesis of a single microcalcification in vivo and quantify its growth over time. Using a commercial CT scanner, we systematically optimized acquisition and reconstruction parameters. Two ray-tracing image reconstruction algorithms were tested: a voxel-driven "fast" cone beam algorithm (FCBA) and a detector-driven "exact" cone beam algorithm (ECBA). By optimizing acquisition and reconstruction parameters, we were able to achieve a resolution of 104 μm full width at half-maximum (FWHM). At an optimal detector sampling frequency, the ECBA provided a 28 μm (21%) FWHM improvement in resolution over the FCBA. In vitro, we were able to image a single 300 μm × 100 μm hydroxyapatite crystal. In a syngeneic rat model of breast cancer, we were able to detect the genesis of a single microcalcification in vivo and follow its growth longitudinally over weeks. Taken together, this study provides an in vivo "gold standard" for the development of calcification-specific contrast agents and a model system for studying the mechanism of breast cancer microcalcification.

Compositional variations at ultra-structure length scales in coral skeleton

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meibom, Anders; Cuif, Jean-Pierre; Houlbreque, Fanny; Mostefaoui, Smail; Dauphin, Yannicke; Meibom, Karin L.; Dunbar, Robert

2008-03-01

Distributions of Mg and Sr in the skeletons of a deep-sea coral ( Caryophyllia ambrosia) and a shallow-water, reef-building coral ( Pavona clavus) have been obtained with a spatial resolution of 150 nm, using the NanoSIMS ion microprobe at the Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle in Paris. These trace element analyses focus on the two primary ultra-structural components in the skeleton: centers of calcification (COC) and fibrous aragonite. In fibrous aragonite, the trace element variations are typically on the order of 10% or more, on length scales on the order of 1-10 μm. Sr/Ca and Mg/Ca variations are not correlated. However, Mg/Ca variations in Pavona are strongly correlated with the layered organization of the skeleton. These data allow for a direct comparison of trace element variations in zooxanthellate and non-zooxanthellate corals. In both corals, all trace elements show variations far beyond what can be attributed to variations in the marine environment. Furthermore, the observed trace element variations in the fibrous (bulk) part of the skeletons are not related to the activity of zooxanthellae, but result from other biological activity in the coral organism. To a large degree, this biological forcing is independent of the ambient marine environment, which is essentially constant on the growth timescales considered here. Finally, we discuss the possible detection of a new high-Mg calcium carbonate phase, which appears to be present in both deep-sea and reef-building corals and is neither aragonite nor calcite.

Transparent ceramic garnet scintillator optimization via composition and co-doping for high-energy resolution gamma spectrometers (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cherepy, Nerine J.; Payne, Stephen A.; Seeley, Zachary M.; Beck, Patrick R.; Swanberg, Erik L.; Hunter, Steven L.

2016-09-01

Breakthrough energy resolution, R(662keV) <4%, has been achieved with an oxide scintillator, Cerium-doped Gadolinium Yttrium Gallium Aluminum Garnet, or GYGAG(Ce), by optimizing fabrication conditions. Here we describe the dependence of scintillation light yield and energy resolution on several variables: (1) Stoichiometry, in particular Gd/Y and Ga/Al ratios which modify the bandgap energy, (2) Processing methods, including vacuum vs. oxygen sintering, and (3) Trace co-dopants that influence the formation of Ce4+ and modify the intra-bandgap trap distribution. To learn about how chemical composition influences the scintillation properties of transparent ceramic garnet scintillators, we have measured: scintillation decay component amplitudes; intensity and duration of afterglow; thermoluminescence glow curve peak positions and amplitudes; integrated light yield; light yield non-proportionality, as measured in the Scintillator Light Yield Non-Proportionality Characterization Instrument (SLYNCI); and energy resolution for gamma spectroscopy. Optimized GYGAG(Ce) provides R(662 keV) =3.0%, for 0.05 cm3 size ceramics with Silicon photodiode readout, and R(662 keV) =4.6%, at 2 in3 size with PMT readout.

Isotope pattern deconvolution as a tool to study iron metabolism in plants.

PubMed

Rodríguez-Castrillón, José Angel; Moldovan, Mariella; García Alonso, J Ignacio; Lucena, Juan José; García-Tomé, Maria Luisa; Hernández-Apaolaza, Lourdes

2008-01-01

Isotope pattern deconvolution is a mathematical technique for isolating distinct isotope signatures from mixtures of natural abundance and enriched tracers. In iron metabolism studies measurement of all four isotopes of the element by high-resolution multicollector or collision cell ICP-MS allows the determination of the tracer/tracee ratio with simultaneous internal mass bias correction and lower uncertainties. This technique was applied here for the first time to study iron uptake by cucumber plants using 57Fe-enriched iron chelates of the o,o and o,p isomers of ethylenediaminedi(o-hydroxyphenylacetic) acid (EDDHA) and ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA). Samples of root, stem, leaves, and xylem sap, after exposure of the cucumber plants to the mentioned 57Fe chelates, were collected, dried, and digested using nitric acid. The isotopic composition of iron in the samples was measured by ICP-MS using a high-resolution multicollector instrument. Mass bias correction was computed using both a natural abundance iron standard and by internal correction using isotope pattern deconvolution. It was observed that, for plants with low 57Fe enrichment, isotope pattern deconvolution provided lower tracer/tracee ratio uncertainties than the traditional method applying external mass bias correction. The total amount of the element in the plants was determined by isotope dilution analysis, using a collision cell quadrupole ICP-MS instrument, after addition of 57Fe or natural abundance Fe in a known amount which depended on the isotopic composition of the sample.

The application of high-resolution mass spectrometry-based data-mining tools in tandem to metabolite profiling of a triple drug combination in humans.

PubMed

Xing, Jie; Zang, Meitong; Zhang, Haiying; Zhu, Mingshe

2015-10-15

Patients are usually exposed to multiple drugs, and metabolite profiling of each drug in complex biological matrices is a big challenge. This study presented a new application of an improved high resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS)-based data-mining tools in tandem to fast and comprehensive metabolite identification of combination drugs in human. The model drug combination was metronidazole-pantoprazole-clarithromycin (MET-PAN-CLAR), which is widely used in clinic to treat ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori. First, mass defect filter (MDF), as a targeted data processing tool, was able to recover all relevant metabolites of MET-PAN-CLAR in human plasma and urine from the full-scan MS dataset when appropriate MDF templates for each drug were defined. Second, the accurate mass-based background subtraction (BS), as an untargeted data-mining tool, worked effectively except for several trace metabolites, which were buried in the remaining background signals. Third, an integrated strategy, i.e., untargeted BS followed by improved MDF, was effective for metabolite identification of MET-PAN-CLAR. Most metabolites except for trace ones were found in the first step of BS-processed datasets, and the results led to the setup of appropriate metabolite MDF template for the subsequent MDF data processing. Trace metabolites were further recovered by MDF, which used both common MDF templates and the novel metabolite-based MDF templates. As a result, a total of 44 metabolites or related components were found for MET-PAN-CLAR in human plasma and urine using the integrated strategy. New metabolic pathways such as N-glucuronidation of PAN and dehydrogenation of CLAR were found. This study demonstrated that the combination of accurate mass-based multiple data-mining techniques in tandem, i.e., untargeted background subtraction followed by targeted mass defect filtering, can be a valuable tool for rapid metabolite profiling of combination drugs in vivo. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The paradox of nonmarine ichnofaunas in tidal rhythmites: Integrating sedimentologic and ichnologic data from the late Carboniferous of eastern Kansas, USA

USGS Publications Warehouse

Buatois, L.A.; Mangano, M.G.; Maples, C.G.; Lanier, Wendy E.

1997-01-01

The occurrence of trace fossil assemblages dominated by arthropod trackways and surface grazing trails within Carboniferous tidal rhythmites has puzzled sedimentologists and ichnologists, who interpreted them either as marine or nonmarine. The Virgilian (Stephanian) Tonganoxie Sandstone Member (Stranger Formation) at Buildex Quarry (eastern Kansas) consists, for the most part, of planar-laminated coarse-grained siltstones deposited on an upper tidal flat, close to or at the fluvial-estuarine transition of a macrotidal estuarine paleovalley. Recurrent thickness fluctuations demonstrate the strong influence of tidal processes and provide evidence that these deposits are tidal rhythmites, with thicker strata representing spring tides and thinner ones recording neap tides. The Buildex sequence hosts a moderately diverse ichnofauna composed of arthropod trackways (Dendroidichnites irregulare, Diplichnites gouldi, Diplopodichnus bifurcus, Kouphichnium isp., Mirandaichnium famatinense, Stiallia pilosa, Stiaria intermedia), grazing traces (Gordia indianaensis, Helminthoidichnites tenuis, Helminthopsis hieroglyphica), subsurface feeding traces (Treptichnus bifurcus, T. pollardi, irregular networks), apterygote insect resting and feeding traces (Tonganoxichnus buildexensis, T. ottawensis), fish traces (Undichna britannica, U. simplicitas), and tetrapod trackways. In contrast to trace fossil assemblages from brackish-water estuarine settings, the Buildex ichnofauna is characterized by moderate to relatively high ichnodiversity, ichnotaxa commonly present in terrestrial/freshwater environments, dominance of surface trails and absence of burrows, dominance of temporary structures produced by a mobile deposit-feeder fauna, a mixture of traces belonging to the Scoyenia and Mermia ichnofacies, moderate density of individual ichnotaxa, and absence of monospecific suites. This ichnofauna is thought to record the activity of a typical freshwater/terrestrial benthos. The presence of this mixed freshwater/terrestrial ichnofauna in tidal rhythmites is regarded as indicative of tidal flats that were developed in the most proximal zone of the inner estuary under freshwater conditions, more precisely in a zone between the maximum limit of landward tidal currents and the salinity limit further towards the sea. Although lithofacies distribution in estuarine valleys is mainly salinity-independent, the distribution of benthos is not. Accordingly, ichnologic studies have the potential to provide a high-resolution delineation of fluvio-estuarine transitions.

Determination of trace elements in Ethiopian, Vietnamese, and Japanese women using high-resolution IC-PMS.

PubMed

Tekeste, Zinaye; Amare, Bemnet; Asfaw, Fanaye; Fantahun, Bereket; van Nguyen, Nhien; Nishikawa, Takeshi; Yabutani, Tomoki; Okayasu, Takako; Ota, Fusao; Kassu, Afework

2015-10-01

Humans and other living organisms require small quantities of trace elements throughout life. Both insufficient and excessive intakes of trace elements can have negative consequences. However, there is little information on serum level of trace elements in different populations. This study examines serum levels of trace elements in Ethiopian, Japanese, and Vietnamese women. Random samples of healthy women who were referred for routine hospital laboratory examinations in the cities of Hanoi, Sapporo, and Gondar were invited to participate in the study. Serum levels of magnesium, zinc, copper, iron, selenium, and calcium were determined using an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer. Furthermore, body mass index of each study participant was determined. The mean ± SD serum concentrations of zinc (μg/dL), copper (μg/dL), iron (μg/dL), selenium (μg/dL) and calcium (mg/dL), respectively, were 76.51 ± 39.16, 152.20 ± 55.37, 385.68 ± 217.95, 9.15 ± 4.21, and 14.18 ± 3.91 in Ethiopian women; 111.49 ± 52.92, 105.86 ± 26.02, 155.09 ± 94.83, 14.11 ± 3.41, and 11.66 ± 2.51 in Vietnamese women; and 60.69 ± 9.76, 107 ± 156, 268 ± 128, 8.33 ± 3.65, and 11.18 ± 0.68 in Japanese participants. Ethiopian women had significantly higher level of serum calcium than Vietnamese and Japanese women (both P < 0.05). Although the mean calcium concentration in Vietnamese women was higher than in women from Japan, the difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). Furthermore, compared with Japanese women, Ethiopian women had significantly high iron and copper concentrations (P < 0.05). Serum selenium and zinc levels were higher in Vietnamese than Ethiopian women. The study revealed a remarkable difference in serum concentrations of trace elements in women from different countries, implying differences in trace elements in the food or soil. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Dynamic magnetic resonance imaging method based on golden-ratio cartesian sampling and compressed sensing.

PubMed

Li, Shuo; Zhu, Yanchun; Xie, Yaoqin; Gao, Song

2018-01-01

Dynamic magnetic resonance imaging (DMRI) is used to noninvasively trace the movements of organs and the process of drug delivery. The results can provide quantitative or semiquantitative pathology-related parameters, thus giving DMRI great potential for clinical applications. However, conventional DMRI techniques suffer from low temporal resolution and long scan time owing to the limitations of the k-space sampling scheme and image reconstruction algorithm. In this paper, we propose a novel DMRI sampling scheme based on a golden-ratio Cartesian trajectory in combination with a compressed sensing reconstruction algorithm. The results of two simulation experiments, designed according to the two major DMRI techniques, showed that the proposed method can improve the temporal resolution and shorten the scan time and provide high-quality reconstructed images.

Probing Buffer-Gas Cooled Molecules with Direct Frequency Comb Spectroscopy in the Mid-Infrrared

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Spaun, Ben; Changala, Bryan; Bjork, Bryce J.; Heckl, Oliver H.; Patterson, David; Doyle, John M.; Ye, Jun

2015-06-01

We present the first demonstration of cavity-enhanced direct frequency comb spectroscopy on buffer-gas cooled molecules.By coupling a mid-infrared frequency comb to a high-finesse cavity surrounding a helium buffer-gas chamber, we can gather rotationally resolved absorption spectra with high sensitivity over a broad wavelength region. The measured ˜10 K rotational and translational temperatures of buffer-gas cooled molecules drastically simplify the observed spectra, compared to those of room temperature molecules, and allow for high spectral resolution limited only by Doppler broadening (10-100 MHz). Our system allows for the extension of high-resolution spectroscopy to larger molecules, enabling detailed analysis of molecular structure and dynamics, while taking full advantage of the powerful optical properties of frequency combs. A. Foltynowicz et al. Cavity-enhanced optical frequency comb spectroscopy in the mid-infrared application to trace detection of hydrogen peroxide. Applied Physics B, vol. 110, pp. 163-175, 2013. {D. Patterson and J. M. Doyle. Cooling molecules in a cell for FTMW spectroscopy. Molecular Physics 110, 1757-1766, 2012

Occurrence of weak, sub-micron, tropospheric aerosol events at high Arctic latitudes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

O'Neill, N. T.; Pancrati, O.; Baibakov, K.; Eloranta, E.; Batchelor, R. L.; Freemantle, J.; McArthur, L. J. B.; Strong, K.; Lindenmaier, R.

2008-07-01

Numerous fine mode (sub-micron) aerosol optical events were observed during the summer of 2007 at the High Arctic atmospheric observatory (PEARL) located at Eureka, Nunavut, Canada. Half of these events could be traced to forest fires in southern and eastern Russia and the Northwest Territories of Canada. The most notable findings were that (a) a combination of ground-based measurements (passive sunphotometry, high spectral resolution lidar) could be employed to determine that weak (near sub-visual) fine mode events had occurred, and (b) this data combined with remote sensing imagery products (MODIS, OMI-AI, FLAMBE fire sources), Fourier transform spectroscopy and back trajectories could be employed to identify the smoke events.

Near-real-time trace element measurements in a rural, traffic-influenced environment with some fireworks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Furger, Markus; Slowik, Jay G.; Cruz Minguillón, María; Hueglin, Christoph; Koch, Chris; Prévôt, André S. H.; Baltensperger, Urs

2016-04-01

Aerosol-bound trace elements can affect the environment in significant ways especially when they are toxic. Characterizing the trace element spatial and temporal variability is a prerequisite for human exposure studies. The requirement for high time resolution and consequently the low sample masses asked for analysis methods not easily accessible, such as synchrotron radiation-induced X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (SR-XRF). In recent years, instrumentation that samples and analyzes airborne particulate matter with time resolutions of less than an hour in near real time has entered the market. We present the results of a three-week campaign in a rural environment close to a freeway. The measurement period included the fireworks of the Swiss National Day. The XRF instrument was set up at the monitoring station Härkingen of the Swiss Monitoring Network for Air Pollution (NABEL). It was configured to sample and analyze ambient PM10 aerosols in 1-hour intervals. Sample analysis with XRF was performed by the instrument immediately after collection, i.e. during the next sampling interval. 24 elements were analyzed and quantified (Si, S, Cl, K, Ca, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Se, Cd, Sn, Sb, Ba, Pt, Hg, Pb, Bi). The element concentrations obtained by the XRF instrument were compared to those determined by ICP-AES and ICP-MS in PM10 samples collected by NABEL high volume samplers. The results demonstrate the capability of the instrument to measure over a wide range of concentrations, from a few ng m-3 to μg m-3, under ambient conditions. The time resolution allows for the characterization of diurnal variations of element concentrations, which provides information on the contribution of emission sources, such as road traffic, soil, or fireworks. Some elements (V, Co, As, Pt) were below their detection limit during most of the time, but As could be quantified during the fireworks. Transition metals Cr, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn could be attributed to freeway traffic. K, S, Ba, and Bi were strongly linked to the fireworks. The field test provided good evidence for the applicability and ease of use of the instrument. It provided also an idea on the sensitivity of the method in realistic, ambient conditions, although the 3-week period was too short for a thorough assessment, e.g. for different weather conditions.

Early Diagenesis of Trace Elements in Modern Fjord Sediments of the High Arctic

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Herbert, L.; Riedinger, N.; Aller, R. C.; Jørgensen, B. B.; Wehrmann, L.

2017-12-01

Marine sediments are critical repositories for elements that are only available at trace concentrations in seawater, such as Fe, Mn, Co, Ni, As, Mo, and U. The behavior of these trace elements in the sediment is governed by a dynamic interplay of diagenetic reactions involving organic carbon, Fe and Mn oxides, and sulfur phases. In the Arctic fjords of Svalbard, glacial meltwater delivers large amounts of reactive Fe and Mn oxides to the sediment, while organic carbon is deposited episodically and diluted by lithogenic material. These conditions result in pronounced Fe and Mn cycling, which in turn drives other diagenetic processes such as rapid sulfide oxidation. These conditions make the Svalbard fjords ideal sites for investigating trace element diagenesis because they allow resolution of the interconnections between Fe and Mn dynamics and trace element cycling. In August 2016, we collected sediment cores from three Svalbard fjords and analyzed trace elements in the pore water and solid sediment over the top meter. Initial results reveal the dynamic nature of these fjords, which are dominated by non-steady state processes and episodic events such as meltwater pulses and phytoplankton blooms. Within this system, the distribution of As appears to be strongly linked to the Fe cycle, while Co and Ni follow Mn; thus, these three elements may be released from the sediment through diffusion and bioturbation along with Fe and Mn. The pore water profiles of U and Mo indicate removal processes that are independent from Fe or Mn, and which are rather unexpected given the apparent diagenetic conditions. Our results will help elucidate the processes controlling trace element cycling in a dynamic, glacially impacted environment and will ultimately contribute to our understanding of the role of fjords in the biogeochemical cycling of trace elements in a rapidly changing Arctic Ocean.

Portable open-path chemical sensor using a quantum cascade laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Corrigan, Paul; Lwin, Maung; Huntley, Reuven; Chhabra, Amandeep; Moshary, Fred; Gross, Barry; Ahmed, Samir

2009-05-01

Remote sensing of enemy installations or their movements by trace gas detection is a critical but challenging military objective. Open path measurements over ranges of a few meters to many kilometers with sensitivity in the parts per million or billion regime are crucial in anticipating the presence of a threat. Previous approaches to detect ground level chemical plumes, explosive constituents, or combustion have relied on low-resolution, short range Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR), or low-sensitivity near-infrared differential optical absorption spectroscopy (DOAS). As mid-infrared quantum cascade laser (QCL) sources have improved in cost and performance, systems based on QCL's that can be tailored to monitor multiple chemical species in real time are becoming a viable alternative. We present the design of a portable, high-resolution, multi-kilometer open path trace gas sensor based on QCL technology. Using a tunable (1045-1047cm-1) QCL, a modeled atmosphere and link-budget analysis with commercial component specifications, we show that with this approach, accuracy in parts per billion ozone or ammonia can be obtained in seconds at path lengths up to 10 km. We have assembled an open-path QCL sensor based on this theoretical approach at City College of New York, and we present preliminary results demonstrating the potential of QCLs in open-path sensing applications.

Usage of CO2 microbubbles as flow-tracing contrast media in X-ray dynamic imaging of blood flows.

PubMed

Lee, Sang Joon; Park, Han Wook; Jung, Sung Yong

2014-09-01

X-ray imaging techniques have been employed to visualize various biofluid flow phenomena in a non-destructive manner. X-ray particle image velocimetry (PIV) was developed to measure velocity fields of blood flows to obtain hemodynamic information. A time-resolved X-ray PIV technique that is capable of measuring the velocity fields of blood flows under real physiological conditions was recently developed. However, technical limitations still remained in the measurement of blood flows with high image contrast and sufficient biocapability. In this study, CO2 microbubbles as flow-tracing contrast media for X-ray PIV measurements of biofluid flows was developed. Human serum albumin and CO2 gas were mechanically agitated to fabricate CO2 microbubbles. The optimal fabricating conditions of CO2 microbubbles were found by comparing the size and amount of microbubbles fabricated under various operating conditions. The average size and quantity of CO2 microbubbles were measured by using a synchrotron X-ray imaging technique with a high spatial resolution. The quantity and size of the fabricated microbubbles decrease with increasing speed and operation time of the mechanical agitation. The feasibility of CO2 microbubbles as a flow-tracing contrast media was checked for a 40% hematocrit blood flow. Particle images of the blood flow were consecutively captured by the time-resolved X-ray PIV system to obtain velocity field information of the flow. The experimental results were compared with a theoretically amassed velocity profile. Results show that the CO2 microbubbles can be used as effective flow-tracing contrast media in X-ray PIV experiments.

Integrated Sedimentological Approach to Assess Reservoir Quality and Architecture of Khuff Carbonates: Outcrop Analog, Central Saudi Arabia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Osman, Mutsim; Abdullatif, Osman

2017-04-01

The Permian to Triassic Khuff carbonate reservoirs (and equivalents) in the Middle East are estimated to contain about 38.4% of the world's natural gas reserves. Excellent exposed outcrops in central Saudi Arabia provide good outcrop equivalents to subsurface Khuff reservoirs. This study conduct high resolution outcrop scale investigations on an analog reservoir for upper Khartam of Khuff Formation. The main objective is to reconstruct litho- and chemo- stratigraphic outcrop analog model that may serve to characterize reservoir high resolution (interwell) heterogeneity, continuity and architecture. Given the fact of the limitation of subsurface data and toolsin capturing interwell reservoir heterogeneity, which in turn increases the value of this study.The methods applied integrate sedimentological, stratigraphic petrographic, petrophysical data and chemical analyses for major, trace and rare earth elements. In addition, laser scanning survey (LIDAR) was also utilized in this study. The results of the stratigraphic investigations revealed that the lithofacies range from mudstone, wackestone, packestone and grainstone. These lithofacies represent environments ranging from supratidal, intertidal, subtidal and shoal complex. Several meter-scale and less high resolution sequences and composite sequences within 4th and 5th order cycles were also recognized in the outcrop analog. The lithofacies and architectural analysis revealed several vertically and laterally stacked sequences at the outcrop as revealed from the stratigraphic sections and the lidar scan. Chemostratigraphy is effective in identifying lithofacies and sequences within the outcrop analog. Moreover, different chemical signatures were also recognized and allowed establishing and correlating high resolution lithofacies, reservoir zones, layers and surfaces bounding reservoirs and non-reservoir zones at scale of meters or less. The results of this high resolution outcrop analog study might help to understand and evaluate Khuff reservoir heterogeneity, quality and architecture. It might also help to fill the gap in knowledge in reservoir characterization models based on low resolution subsurface data alone.

Remote sounding of tropospheric minor constituents

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Drayson, S. Roland; Hays, Paul B.; Wang, Jinxue

1993-01-01

The etalon interferometer, or Fabry-Perot interferometer (FPI), with its high throughput and high spectral resolution was widely used in the remote-sensing measurements of the earth's atmospheric composition, winds, and temperatures. The most recent satellite instruments include the Fabry-Perot interferometer flown on the Dynamics Explorer-2 (DE-2) and the High Resolution Doppler Imager (HRDI) to be flown on the Upper Atmosphere Research Satellite (UARS). These instruments measure the Doppler line profiles of the emission and absorption of certain atmospheric species (such as atomic oxygen) in the visible spectral region. The successful space flight of DE-FPI and the test and delivery of UARS-HRDI demonstrated the extremely high spectral resolution and ruggedness of the etalon system for the remote sensing of earth and planetary atmospheres. Recently, an innovative FPI focal plane detection technique called the Circle-to-Line Interferometer Optical (CLIO) system was invented at the Space Physics Research Laboratory (SPRL). The CLIO simplifies the FPI focal plane detection process by converting the circular rings or fringes into a linear pattern similar to that produced by a conventional spectrometer, while retaining the throughput advantage of the etalon interferometer. CLIO makes the use of linear array detectors more practical and efficient with FPI, the combination of FPI and CLIO represents a very promising new technique for the remote sensing of the lower atmospheres of Earth, Mars, Venus, Neptune, and other planets. The Multiorder Etalon Spectrometer (MOES), as a combination of the rugged etalon and the CLIO, compares very favorably to other spaceborne optical instruments in terms of performance versus complexity. The feasibility of an advanced etalon spectrometer for the remote sensing of tropospheric trace species, particularly carbon monoxide (CO), nitrous oxide (N2O), and methane (CH4) was discussed. The etalon atmospheric spectroscopy techniques are described, instrument design and related technical issues are discussed. The primary objective is to establish the concept of atmospheric spectroscopy with the CLIO and etalon system and its applications for the measurements of tropospheric trace species analyze system requirements and performance, determine the feasibility of components and subsystem implementation with available technology, and develop inversion algorithm for retrieval simulation and data analysis.

Tracing the Energetics of the Universe with Constellation-X: Example Scientific Investigations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hornschemeier, Ann

2008-01-01

Constellation-X will enable us to trace the energetics of a broad range of astrophysical phenomena owing to its capabilities for high spectral resolution X-ray spectroscopy. The dominant baryonic component of galaxy clusters and groups resides in the X-ray bandpass, and the hot phase of the ISM in galaxies harbors the heavy metal production from previous generation of stars. This talk will focus on a few example science questions that are expected to be important during the Constellation-X era. These include the nature of the missing baryons expected to reside in the hot portion of the Warm Hot Intergalactic Medium, which Constellation-X will address via absorption spectroscopy studies of background AGN. We will also discuss spatially resolved spectroscopy of metal enrichment and the effects of turbulence in clusters & groups and of starburst galaxy winds which deposit energy & metals into the Intergalactic Medium.

Introducing GAMER: A fast and accurate method for ray-tracing galaxies using procedural noise

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

Groeneboom, N. E.; Dahle, H., E-mail: nicolaag@astro.uio.no

2014-03-10

We developed a novel approach for fast and accurate ray-tracing of galaxies using procedural noise fields. Our method allows for efficient and realistic rendering of synthetic galaxy morphologies, where individual components such as the bulge, disk, stars, and dust can be synthesized in different wavelengths. These components follow empirically motivated overall intensity profiles but contain an additional procedural noise component that gives rise to complex natural patterns that mimic interstellar dust and star-forming regions. These patterns produce more realistic-looking galaxy images than using analytical expressions alone. The method is fully parallelized and creates accurate high- and low- resolution images thatmore » can be used, for example, in codes simulating strong and weak gravitational lensing. In addition to having a user-friendly graphical user interface, the C++ software package GAMER is easy to implement into an existing code.« less

Design and analysis of optical systems for the Stanford/MSFC Multi-Spectral Solar Telescope Array

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hadaway, James B.; Johnson, R. Barry; Hoover, Richard B.; Lindblom, Joakim F.; Walker, Arthur B. C., Jr.

1989-07-01

This paper reports on the design and the theoretical ray trace analysis of the optical systems which will comprise the primary imaging components for the Stanford/MSFC Multi-Spectral Solar Telescope Array (MSSTA). This instrument is being developed for ultra-high resolution investigations of the sun from a sounding rocket. Doubly reflecting systems of sphere-sphere, ellipsoid-sphere (Dall-Kirkham), paraboloid-hyperboloid (Cassegrain), and hyperboloid-hyperboloid (Ritchey-Chretien) configurations were analyzed. For these mirror systems, ray trace analysis was performed and through-focus spot diagrams, point spread function plots, and geometrical and diffraction MTFs were generated. The results of these studies are presented along with the parameters of the Ritchey-Chretien optical system selected for the MSSTA flight. The payload, which incorporates seven of these Ritchey-Chretien systems, is now being prepared for launch in late September 1989.

First results of the observations of trace gases in the Martian atmosphere by the Planetary Fourier Spectrometer onboard the Mars Express

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Titov, D. V.; Ignatiev, N.; Formisano, V.; Grassi, D.; Giuranna, M.; Maturilli, A.; Piccioni, G.; Moroz, V. I.; Lellouch, E.; Encrenaz, T.; Pfs Team

High spectral resolution observations of Mars by the PFS/Mars Express provide new insight into the atmospheric composition. Spectral features of atmospheric CO2 and its isotopes at 15, 4.3, 2.7, 1.4 μ m, CO at 4.7 and 2.35 μ m, and H2O at 40, 2.56, and 1.38 μ m as well as solar spectral features are clearly identified in the PFS spectra. HDO spectral details at 3.7 μ m were also tentatively detected. The paper will present qualitative and quantitative analysis of the PFS spectra in the regions of spectral bands of trace gases. Abundance of minor constituents will be determined using complete radiative transfer modeling including possible non-LTE effects. We will also present results of search for other minor species with emphasis on the limb observations that provide higher air mass factor.

Design and analysis of optical systems for the Stanford/MSFC Multi-Spectral Solar Telescope Array

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hadaway, James B.; Johnson, R. Barry; Hoover, Richard B.; Lindblom, Joakim F.; Walker, Arthur B. C., Jr.

1989-01-01

This paper reports on the design and the theoretical ray trace analysis of the optical systems which will comprise the primary imaging components for the Stanford/MSFC Multi-Spectral Solar Telescope Array (MSSTA). This instrument is being developed for ultra-high resolution investigations of the sun from a sounding rocket. Doubly reflecting systems of sphere-sphere, ellipsoid-sphere (Dall-Kirkham), paraboloid-hyperboloid (Cassegrain), and hyperboloid-hyperboloid (Ritchey-Chretien) configurations were analyzed. For these mirror systems, ray trace analysis was performed and through-focus spot diagrams, point spread function plots, and geometrical and diffraction MTFs were generated. The results of these studies are presented along with the parameters of the Ritchey-Chretien optical system selected for the MSSTA flight. The payload, which incorporates seven of these Ritchey-Chretien systems, is now being prepared for launch in late September 1989.

Introducing GAMER: A Fast and Accurate Method for Ray-tracing Galaxies Using Procedural Noise

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Groeneboom, N. E.; Dahle, H.

2014-03-01

We developed a novel approach for fast and accurate ray-tracing of galaxies using procedural noise fields. Our method allows for efficient and realistic rendering of synthetic galaxy morphologies, where individual components such as the bulge, disk, stars, and dust can be synthesized in different wavelengths. These components follow empirically motivated overall intensity profiles but contain an additional procedural noise component that gives rise to complex natural patterns that mimic interstellar dust and star-forming regions. These patterns produce more realistic-looking galaxy images than using analytical expressions alone. The method is fully parallelized and creates accurate high- and low- resolution images that can be used, for example, in codes simulating strong and weak gravitational lensing. In addition to having a user-friendly graphical user interface, the C++ software package GAMER is easy to implement into an existing code.

Real-time trace ambient ammonia monitor for haze prevention

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nishimura, Katsumi; Sakaguchi, Yuhei; Crosson, Eric; Wahl, Edward; Rella, Chris

2007-05-01

In photolithography, haze prevention is of critical importance to integrated circuit chip manufacturers. Numerous studies have established that the presence of ammonia in the photolithography tool can cause haze to form on optical surfaces resulting in permanent damage to costly deep ultra-violet optics. Ammonia is emitted into wafer fab air by various semiconductor processes including coating steps in the track and CMP. The workers in the clean room also emit a significant amount of ammonia. Chemical filters are typically used to remove airborne contamination from critical locations but their lifetime and coverage cannot offer complete protection. Therefore, constant or periodic monitoring of airborne ammonia at parts-per-trillion (ppt) levels is critical to insure the integrity of the lithography process. Real time monitoring can insure that an accidental ammonia release in the clean room is detected before any optics is damaged. We have developed a transportable, highly accurate, highly specific, real-time trace gas monitor that detects ammonia using Cavity Ring-Down Spectroscopy (CRDS). The trace gas monitor requires no calibration gas standards, and can measure ammonia with 200 ppt sensitivity in five minutes with little or no baseline drift. In addition, the high spectral resolution of CRDS makes the analyzer less susceptible to interference from other gases when compared to other detection methods. In this paper we describe the monitor, focus on its performance, discuss the results of a careful comparison with ion chromatography (IC), and present field data measured inside the aligner and the reticule stocker at a semiconductor fab.

The GALAH survey: observational overview and Gaia DR1 companion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martell, S. L.; Sharma, S.; Buder, S.; Duong, L.; Schlesinger, K. J.; Simpson, J.; Lind, K.; Ness, M.; Marshall, J. P.; Asplund, M.; Bland-Hawthorn, J.; Casey, A. R.; De Silva, G.; Freeman, K. C.; Kos, J.; Lin, J.; Zucker, D. B.; Zwitter, T.; Anguiano, B.; Bacigalupo, C.; Carollo, D.; Casagrande, L.; Da Costa, G. S.; Horner, J.; Huber, D.; Hyde, E. A.; Kafle, P. R.; Lewis, G. F.; Nataf, D.; Navin, C. A.; Stello, D.; Tinney, C. G.; Watson, F. G.; Wittenmyer, R.

2017-03-01

The Galactic Archaeology with HERMES (GALAH) survey is a massive observational project to trace the Milky Way's history of star formation, chemical enrichment, stellar migration and minor mergers. Using high-resolution (R ≃ 28 000) spectra, taken with the High Efficiency and Resolution Multi-Element Spectrograph (HERMES) instrument at the Anglo-Australian Telescope, GALAH will determine stellar parameters and abundances of up to 29 elements for up to one million stars. Selecting targets from a colour-unbiased catalogue built from 2MASS, APASS and UCAC4 data, we expect to observe dwarfs at 0.3-3 kpc and giants at 1-10 kpc. This enables a thorough local chemical inventory of the Galactic thin and thick discs, and also captures smaller samples of the bulge and halo. In this paper, we present the plan, process and progress as of early 2016 for GALAH survey observations. In our first two years of survey observing we have accumulated the largest high-quality spectroscopic data set at this resolution, over 200 000 stars. We also present the first public GALAH data catalogue: stellar parameters (Teff, log(g), [Fe/H], [α/Fe]), radial velocity, distance modulus and reddening for 10 680 observations of 9860 Tycho-2 stars, 7894 of which are included in the first Gaia data release.

Trace Gas Retrievals from the GeoTASO Aircraft Instrument During the DISCOVER-AQ Campaigns

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nowlan, C. R.; Liu, X.; Leitch, J. W.; Liu, C.; Gonzalez Abad, G.; Chance, K.; Delker, T.; Good, W. S.; Murcray, F.; Ruppert, L.; Kaptchen, P. F.; Loughner, C.; Follette-Cook, M. B.; Pickering, K. E.

2014-12-01

The Geostationary Trace gas and Aerosol Sensor Optimization (GeoTASO) instrument is a recently-developed passive remote sensing instrument capable of making 2-D measurements of trace gases from aircraft. GeoTASO was developed under NASA's Instrument Incubator program and is a test-bed instrument for the Geostationary Coastal and Air Pollution Events (GEO-CAPE) decadal survey and the upcoming Tropospheric Emissions: Monitoring of Pollution (TEMPO) satellite missions. The instrument collects spectra of backscattered UV-visible radiation for the detection of tropospheric trace gases such as NO2, ozone, formaldehyde and SO2. GeoTASO flew on the NASA HU-25C Falcon aircraft during the 2013 (Texas) and 2014 (Colorado) DISCOVER-AQ field campaigns, making satellite-analog measurements of trace gases at a spatial resolution of approximately 500x500 m over urban areas, power plants and other industrial sources of pollution. We present the GeoTASO retrieval algorithms, trace gas measurement results, and validation comparisons with ground-based observations and other aircraft instruments during these campaigns.

Tiny twists in time; exploring angular resolution of in situ EBSD orientation microstructures in solar system zircon

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moser, D. E.

2012-12-01

Kikuchi discovered electron diffraction in samples of calcite in the 1920's, and orientation of lattice planes by Electron Backscatter Diffraction (EBSD) is now routinely measured by automated camera systems at a spatial resolution of tens of nanometers using Field Emission Gun SEM. The current methodology is proving particularly powerful when measuring lattice orientation microstructure in U-Pb geochronology minerals such as zircon and baddeleyite that have experienced high temperature deformation or shock metamorphism. These are among the oldest preserved mineral phases in inner solar system materials, and we have been applying EBSD to rare samples of the Early Earth and grains from extraterrestrial environments such as the Moon and Mars. In these cases the EBSD orientation data are useful for identifying high diffusivity pathways that may have afforded isotopic and trace element disturbance, microstructural proxies for shock metamorphic pressures, as well as resolving glide plane systems in ductile zircon and shear twin mechanisms. Blanket estimates of angular resolution for automated EBSD misorientation measurements are often in the range of 0.5 degrees. In some cases strain giving rise to only a few degrees of lattice misorientation has facilitated 100% Pb-loss. In some cases, however, there is a spatial correlation between trace element or cathodoluminescence zoning in zircon and what appears to be low magnitudes misorientation close to the limits of resolution. Given the proven value of performing EBSD analysis on geochronology minerals, a more thorough exploration of the precision and accuracy of EBSD lattice misorientation measurements is warranted. In this talk the relative weighting of the factors that limit EBSD angular resolution will be investigated, focusing on U-Pb dating minerals such as zircon. These factors include; sample surface preparation, phase symmetry, pseudo-symmetry effects, degree of crystallinity, Kikuchi band contrast and indexing, solid solution effects on unit cell, dimension camera calibration and camera-sample distance, beam conditions and focussing, and general microscope operating conditions (e.g. high vacuum vs. variable pressure). An assessment of potential zircon EBSD reference materials and sample preparation protocols will be presented, along with case studies of zircon orientation microstructures from meteorites and terrestrial craters representative of different strain and thermal environments in the inner solar system.BSD lattice misorientation maps of a) crystal-plastically deformed and partly recrystallized zircon, after Rayner et al. (in prep.), and b) shock-metamorphosed lunar zircon (Darling et al., in prep.).

Large-scale Distribution of CH4 in the Western North Pacific: Sources and Transport from the Asian Continent

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bartlett, Karen B.; Sachse, Glen W.; Slate, Thomas; Harward, Charles; Blake, Donald R.

2003-01-01

Methane (CH4) mixing ratios in the northern Pacific Basin were sampled from two aircraft during the TRACE-P mission (Transport and Chemical Evolution over the Pacific) from late February through early April 2001 using a tunable diode laser system. Described in more detail by Jacob et al., the mission was designed to characterize Asian outflow to the Pacific, determine its chemical evolution, and assess changes to the atmosphere resulting from the rapid industrialization and increased energy usage on the Asian continent. The high-resolution, high-precision data set of roughly 13,800 CH4 measurements ranged between 1602 ppbv in stratospherically influenced air and 2149 ppbv in highly polluted air. Overall, CH4 mixing ratios were highly correlated with a variety of other trace gases characteristic of a mix of anthropogenic industrial and combustion sources and were strikingly correlated with ethane (C2H6) in particular. Averages with latitude in the near-surface (0-2 km) show that CH4 was elevated well above background levels north of 15 deg N close to the Asian continent. In the central and eastern Pacific, levels of CH4 were lower as continental inputs were mixed horizontally and vertically during transport. Overall, the correlation between CH4 and other hydrocarbons such as ethane (C2H6), ethyne (C2H2), and propane (C3H8) as well as the urban/industrial tracer perchloroethene (C2Cl4), suggests that for CH4 colocated sources such as landfills, wastewater treatment, and fossil fuel use associated with urban areas dominate regional inputs at this time. Comparisons between measurements made during TRACE-P and those of PEM-West B, flown during roughly the same time of year and under a similar meteorological setting 7 years earlier, suggest that although the TRACE-P CH4 observations are higher, the changes are not significantly greater than the increases seen in background air over this time interval.

Astigmatism-free Czerny-Turner compact spectrometer with cylindrical mirrors.

PubMed

Xia, Guo; Wu, Su; Wang, Guodong; Hu, Mingyong; Xing, Jinyu

2017-11-10

A modified optical design for a broadband, high resolution, astigmatism-free Czerny-Turner spectrometer is proposed. Astigmatism is corrected by using cylindrical mirrors over a broad spectral range. The theory and method for astigmatism correction are thoroughly analyzed. The comparison between the modified Czerny-Turner spectrometer and the traditional Czerny-Turner spectrometer is also described in detail. The ray-tracing results show that the RMS spot radius has decreased to 4.2 μm at the central wavelength and 17 μm at the wedge wavelength.

Transmission electron microscope studies of extraterrestrial materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Keller, Lindsay P.

1995-01-01

Transmission Electron Microscopy, X-Ray spectrometry and electron-energy-loss spectroscopy are used to analyse carbon in interplanetary dust particles. Optical micrographs are shown depicting cross sections of the dust particles embedded in sulphur. Selected-area electron diffraction patterns are shown. Transmission Electron Microscope specimens of lunar soil were prepared using two methods: ion-milling and ultramicrotomy. A combination of high resolution TEM imaging and electron diffraction is used to characterize the opaque assemblages. The opaque assemblages analyzed in this study are dominated by ilmenite with lesser rutile and spinel exsolutions, and traces of Fe metal.

High-resolution community profiling of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi.

PubMed

Schlaeppi, Klaus; Bender, S Franz; Mascher, Fabio; Russo, Giancarlo; Patrignani, Andrea; Camenzind, Tessa; Hempel, Stefan; Rillig, Matthias C; van der Heijden, Marcel G A

2016-11-01

Community analyses of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) using ribosomal small subunit (SSU) or internal transcribed spacer (ITS) DNA sequences often suffer from low resolution or coverage. We developed a novel sequencing based approach for a highly resolving and specific profiling of AMF communities. We took advantage of previously established AMF-specific PCR primers that amplify a c. 1.5-kb long fragment covering parts of SSU, ITS and parts of the large ribosomal subunit (LSU), and we sequenced the resulting amplicons with single molecule real-time (SMRT) sequencing. The method was applicable to soil and root samples, detected all major AMF families and successfully discriminated closely related AMF species, which would not be discernible using SSU sequences. In inoculation tests we could trace the introduced AMF inoculum at the molecular level. One of the introduced strains almost replaced the local strain(s), revealing that AMF inoculation can have a profound impact on the native community. The methodology presented offers researchers a powerful new tool for AMF community analysis because it unifies improved specificity and enhanced resolution, whereas the drawback of medium sequencing throughput appears of lesser importance for low-diversity groups such as AMF. © 2016 The Authors. New Phytologist © 2016 New Phytologist Trust.

The dark matter of galaxy voids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sutter, P. M.; Lavaux, Guilhem; Wandelt, Benjamin D.; Weinberg, David H.; Warren, Michael S.

2014-03-01

How do observed voids relate to the underlying dark matter distribution? To examine the spatial distribution of dark matter contained within voids identified in galaxy surveys, we apply Halo Occupation Distribution models representing sparsely and densely sampled galaxy surveys to a high-resolution N-body simulation. We compare these galaxy voids to voids found in the halo distribution, low-resolution dark matter and high-resolution dark matter. We find that voids at all scales in densely sampled surveys - and medium- to large-scale voids in sparse surveys - trace the same underdensities as dark matter, but they are larger in radius by ˜20 per cent, they have somewhat shallower density profiles and they have centres offset by ˜ 0.4Rv rms. However, in void-to-void comparison we find that shape estimators are less robust to sampling, and the largest voids in sparsely sampled surveys suffer fragmentation at their edges. We find that voids in galaxy surveys always correspond to underdensities in the dark matter, though the centres may be offset. When this offset is taken into account, we recover almost identical radial density profiles between galaxies and dark matter. All mock catalogues used in this work are available at http://www.cosmicvoids.net.

Simultaneous measurement of stratospheric O3, H2O, CH4, and N2O profiles from infrared limb thermal emissions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Abbas, M. M.; Glenn, M. J.; Kunde, V. G.; Brasunas, J.; Conrath, B. J.; Maguire, W. C.; Herman, J. R.

1987-01-01

Thermal emission measurements of the earth's stratospheric limb were made with a cryogenically cooled high-resolution Michelson interferometer on a balloon flight launched from Palestine, TX, on Nov. 6, 1984. Infrared spectra for complete limb sequences were obtained over portions of the 700-1940/cm range with an unapodized spectral resolution of 0.03/cm for tangent heights varying from 13 to 39 km. The observed data from 1125 to 1425/cm have been analyzed for simultaneous measurement of O3, H2O, CH4, and N2O profiles. The analysis employs line-by-line and layer-by-layer radiative-transfer calculations, including curvature and refraction effects. The optimum use of geometric and spectral effects is made to obtain sharply peaked weighting functions. Contributions from stratospheric aerosol are included by measuring the light extinction within the window regions of the observed spectra. The retrieved constituent profiles are compared with measurements made with a variety of techniques by other groups. The comparison shows good agreement with the published data for all gases, indicating the capability of retrieving trace gas profiles from high-resolution thermal emission limb measurements.

First results from ground-based CO2 remote sounding using high-resolution thermal IR laser heterodyne radiometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hoffmann, Alex; Huebner, Marko; Macleod, Neil; Weidmann, Damien

2016-04-01

Over the course of the last decade, the Laser Spectroscopy Group at RAL Space has considerably furthered the passive remote sensing technique of thermal IR Laser Heterodyne Radiometry (LHR), and applied it successfully to the ground-based sounding of atmospheric profiles of a variety of trace gases, including methane. LHR is underpinned by coherent detection technology and ideally shot noise-limited, which can significantly enhance the signal-to-noise ratio of acquired atmospheric spectra over conventional direct detection spectrometers when high spectral (>500,000 resolving power) and high spatial resolutions are needed. These benefits allow probing optimized narrow spectral windows (1 cm-1) with full absorption lineshape information, useful for trace gas vertical profiling. Furthermore, LHR has a high potential for miniaturization into a rugged, unprecedentedly compact package, through hollow waveguide optical integration, facilitating its deployment in ground-based observation networks, as well as on a variety of airborne and spaceborne platforms, whilst retaining its high specifications. This makes LHR well-suited to the remote sounding of key greenhouse gases, in particular carbon dioxide, as observations with high precision and accuracy are crucial to discriminate trends and small variations over a substantial background concentration, and in order to contribute to flux estimations in top-down carbon cycle inversion approaches and anthropogenic emission monitoring. Here, we present a new optical bench-based LHR prototype that has been specifically built to demonstrate CO2 sounding in the thermal IR. The instrument has been coupled to a new permanently installed solar tracker to take a long-term measurement series in solar occultation mode, and to assess the performance of the instrument. We discuss its theoretical performance modelled using an Observation System Simulator, and showcase first results from a 6 months' archive, with observations undergoing gradual refinement as the retrieval method is improved.

Investigation on the separability of slums by multi-aspect TerraSAR-X dual-co-polarized high resolution spotlight images based on the multi-scale evaluation of local distributions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schmitt, Andreas; Sieg, Tobias; Wurm, Michael; Taubenböck, Hannes

2018-02-01

Following recent advances in distinguishing settlements vs. non-settlement areas from latest SAR data, the question arises whether a further automatic intra-urban delineation and characterization of different structural types is possible. This paper studies the appearance of the structural type ;slums; in high resolution SAR images. Geocoded Kennaugh elements are used as backscatter information and Schmittlet indices as descriptor of local texture. Three cities with a significant share of slums (Cape Town, Manila, Mumbai) are chosen as test sites. These are imaged by TerraSAR-X in the dual-co-polarized high resolution spotlight mode in any available aspect angle. Representative distributions are estimated and fused by a robust approach. Our observations identify a high similarity of slums throughout all three test sites. The derived similarity maps are validated with reference data sets from visual interpretation and ground truth. The final validation strategy is based on completeness and correctness versus other classes in relation to the similarity. High accuracies (up to 87%) in identifying morphologic slums are reached for Cape Town. For Manila (up to 60%) and Mumbai (up to 54%), the distinction is more difficult due to their complex structural configuration. Concluding, high resolution SAR data can be suitable to automatically trace potential locations of slums. Polarimetric information and the incidence angle seem to have a negligible impact on the results whereas the intensity patterns and the passing direction of the satellite are playing a key role. Hence, the combination of intensity images (brightness) acquired from ascending and descending orbits together with Schmittlet indices (spatial pattern) promises best results. The transfer from the automatically recognized physical similarity to the semantic interpretation remains challenging.

High-frequency Rayleigh-wave method

USGS Publications Warehouse

Xia, J.; Miller, R.D.; Xu, Y.; Luo, Y.; Chen, C.; Liu, J.; Ivanov, J.; Zeng, C.

2009-01-01

High-frequency (???2 Hz) Rayleigh-wave data acquired with a multichannel recording system have been utilized to determine shear (S)-wave velocities in near-surface geophysics since the early 1980s. This overview article discusses the main research results of high-frequency surface-wave techniques achieved by research groups at the Kansas Geological Survey and China University of Geosciences in the last 15 years. The multichannel analysis of surface wave (MASW) method is a non-invasive acoustic approach to estimate near-surface S-wave velocity. The differences between MASW results and direct borehole measurements are approximately 15% or less and random. Studies show that simultaneous inversion with higher modes and the fundamental mode can increase model resolution and an investigation depth. The other important seismic property, quality factor (Q), can also be estimated with the MASW method by inverting attenuation coefficients of Rayleigh waves. An inverted model (S-wave velocity or Q) obtained using a damped least-squares method can be assessed by an optimal damping vector in a vicinity of the inverted model determined by an objective function, which is the trace of a weighted sum of model-resolution and model-covariance matrices. Current developments include modeling high-frequency Rayleigh-waves in near-surface media, which builds a foundation for shallow seismic or Rayleigh-wave inversion in the time-offset domain; imaging dispersive energy with high resolution in the frequency-velocity domain and possibly with data in an arbitrary acquisition geometry, which opens a door for 3D surface-wave techniques; and successfully separating surface-wave modes, which provides a valuable tool to perform S-wave velocity profiling with high-horizontal resolution. ?? China University of Geosciences (Wuhan) and Springer-Verlag GmbH 2009.

A high-resolution historical sediment record of nutrients, trace elements and organochlorines (DDT and PCB) deposition in a drinking water reservoir (Lake Brêt, Switzerland) points at local and regional pollutant sources.

PubMed

Thevenon, Florian; de Alencastro, Luiz Felippe; Loizeau, Jean-Luc; Adatte, Thierry; Grandjean, Dominique; Wildi, Walter; Poté, John

2013-03-01

The (137)Cs and (210)Pb dating of a 61-cm long sediment core retrieved from a drinking water reservoir (Lake Brêt) located in Switzerland revealed a linear and relatively high sedimentation rate (~1 cm year(-1)) over the last decades. The continuous centimeter scale measurement of physical (porewater and granulometry), organic (C(org), P, N, HI and OI indexes) and mineral (C(min) and lithogenic trace elements) parameters therefore enables reconstructing the environmental history of the lake and anthropogenic pollutant input (trace metals, DDT and PCBs) at high resolution. A major change in the physical properties of the lowermost sediments occurred following the artificial rise of the dam in 1922. After ca. 1940, there was a long-term up-core increase in organic matter deposition attributed to enhance primary production and anoxic bottom water conditions due to excessive nutrient input from a watershed predominantly used for agriculture that also received domestic effluents of two wastewater-treatment plants. This pattern contrasts with the terrigenous element input (Eu, Sc, Mg, Ti, Al, and Fe) which doubled after the rising of the dam but continuously decreased during the last 60 years. By comparison, the trace metals (Cu, Pb and Hg) presented a slight enrichment factor (EF) only during the second part of the 20th century. Although maximum EF Pb (>2) occurred synchronously with the use of leaded gasoline in Switzerland (between ca. 1947 and 1985) the Hg and Cu profiles exhibited a relatively similar trend than Pb during the 20th century, therefore excluding the alkyl-lead added to petrol as the dominant (atmospheric) source of lead input to Lake Brêt. Conversely, the Cu profile that did not follow the decrease registered in Pb and Hg during the last 10 years, suggests an additional source of Cu probably linked to the impact of agricultural activities in the area. In absence of heavy industries in the catchment, the atmospheric deposition of DDT and PCBs via surface runoff followed the historical emissions of POPs in Switzerland. Such result highlights the regional contamination of freshwater resources by the large-scale emission of toxic industrial chemicals in the 1960s and 1970s as well as the efficiency of the regulatory measures subsequently taken. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Seismic imaging of small horizontal scale structures of the shallow thermocline on the western Brittany continental shelf (North-East Atlantic)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Piete, H.; Marié, L.; Marsset, B.; Gutscher, M.

2012-12-01

The recent development of the seismic oceanography technique has made possible the imaging of a variety of deep oceanographic structures (Holbrook et al., 2003); however, until now this method has remained ill suited for the study of shallow (<200m) thermohaline structures. This difficulty is partly due to the fact that both important seismic trace lengths and large offsets that characterize the acoustic receiver device (seismic streamer) cause significant signal attenuations through an induced antenna filter effect. Further difficulties are related to limitations of currently employed seismic sources, which do not conciliate 1- high power (essential to the imaging of weakly reflective structures in a noisy environment) and 2- spectral contents offering high vertical resolutions (relevant to the mapping of small vertical wavelength structures). In this study we defined and tested a new experimental seismic acquisition system capable of imaging the ~10 m thick seasonal thermocline on the western Brittany continental shelf. To accomplish this task, we pursued two complementary approaches: 1. Analysis of legacy seismic data (multi-channel seismic reflection profiles acquired on the East-Corsican margin, Bahamas Plateau and Gulf of Cadiz in various oceanographic environments) featuring reflectors at depths between 25 and 150 m, in order to identify and quantify the influence of acquisition parameters (seismic trace length, offsets, emission level and frequency content). 2. Incorporation of new oceanographic data acquired during the FROMVAR cruise (July 28th to August 10th 2010) on the western Brittany shelf in thermally stratified waters for use in the simulation of the seismic acquisition, in order to further define the optimal parameters for the system. Finally a 3D seismic system has emerged and was tested during the ASPEX scientific cruise led from June 17th to 19th 2012 across the western Brittany shelf. The device featured: i- four seismic streamers, each consisting of 6 traces at a spacing of 1.80 m; ii- a 1000 J SIG Sparker producing a 400 Hz signal with a 220 dB re 1μPa @1m level of emission, towed at a 8 m distance of the first seismic trace. This survey provided high lateral resolution images of the seasonal thermocline located at a 30 m depth with vertical displacements induced by internal waves. References Holbrook, W.S., Paramo, P., Pearse, S. and Schmitt, R.W., 2003. Thermohaline Fine Structure in an Oceanographic Front from Seismic Reflection Profiling. Science, 301(5634): 821.

Comparative trace elemental analysis of cancerous and non-cancerous tissues of rectal cancer patients using PIXE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Naga Raju, G. J.; Sarita, P.; Murthy, K. S. R.

2017-08-01

Particle Induced X-ray Emission (PIXE), an accelerator based analytical technique has been employed in this work for the analysis of trace elements in the cancerous and non-cancerous tissues of rectal cancer patients. A beam of 3 MeV protons generated from 3 MV Pelletron accelerator at the Ion Beam Laboratory of Institute of Physics, Bhubaneswar, India was used as projectile to excite the atoms present in the tissues samples. PIXE technique, with its capability to detect simultaneously several elements present at very low concentrations, offers an excellent tool for trace element analysis. The characteristic X-rays emitted by the samples were recorded by a high resolution Si (Li) detector. On the basis of the PIXE spectrum obtained for each sample, the elements Cl, K, Ca, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, and Br were identified and their relative concentrations were estimated in the cancerous and non-cancerous tissues of rectum. The levels of Mn, Fe, Co, Cu, Zn, and As were higher (p < 0.005) while the levels of Ca, Cr and Ni were lower (p < 0.005) in the cancer tissues relative to the normal tissues. The alterations in the levels of the trace elements observed in the present work are discussed in this paper with respect to their potential role in the initiation, promotion and inhibition of cancer of the rectum.

In Situ Determination of Trace Elements in Fish Otoliths by Laser Ablation Double Focusing Sector Field Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry Using a Solution Standard Addition Calibration Method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Z.; Jones, C. M.

2002-05-01

Microchemistry of fish otoliths (fish ear bones) is a very useful tool for monitoring aquatic environments and fish migration. However, determination of the elemental composition in fish otolith by ICP-MS has been limited to either analysis of dissolved sample solution or measurement of limited number of trace elements by laser ablation (LA)- ICP-MS due to low sensitivity, lack of available calibration standards, and complexity of polyatomic molecular interference. In this study, a method was developed for in situ determination of trace elements in fish otoliths by laser ablation double focusing sector field ultra high sensitivity Finnigan Element 2 ICP-MS using a solution standard addition calibration method. Due to the lack of matrix-match solid calibration standards, sixteen trace elements (Na, Mg, P, Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Rb, Sr, Y, Cd, La, Ba, Pb and U) were determined using a solution standard calibration with Ca as an internal standard. Flexibility, easy preparation and stable signals are the advantages of using solution calibration standards. In order to resolve polyatomic molecular interferences, medium resolution (M/delta M > 4000) was used for some elements (Na, Mg, P, Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, and Cu). Both external calibration and standard addition quantification strategies are compared and discussed. Precision, accuracy, and limits of detection are presented.

Widespread pollution of the South American atmosphere predates the industrial revolution by 240 years

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Uglietti, Chiara; Gabrielli, Paolo; Cooke, Colin; Vallelonga, Paul; Thompson, Lonnie

2015-04-01

In the Southern Hemisphere, evidence for preindustrial atmospheric pollution is restricted to a few geological archives of low temporal resolution that record trace element deposition originating from past mining and metallurgical operations in South America. Therefore the timing and the spatial impact of these activities on the past atmosphere remain poorly constrained. Here we present an annually resolved ice-core record (793-1989 AD) from the high altitude drilling site of Quelccaya (Peru) that archives preindustrial and industrial variations in trace elements. During the pre-colonial period (i.e., pre-1532 AD), the deposition of trace elements was mainly dominated by the fallout of aeolian dust and of ash from occasional volcanic eruptions indicating that metallurgic production during the Inca Empire (1438-1532 AD) had a negligible impact on the South American atmosphere. In contrast, a widespread anthropogenic signal is evident after 1540 AD, which corresponds with the beginning of colonial mining and metallurgy in Peru and Bolivia, 240 years prior to the Industrial Revolution. This shift was due to a major technological transition for silver extraction in South America (1572 AD), from lead-based smelting to mercury amalgamation, which precipitated a massive increase in mining activities. However, deposition of toxic trace metals during the Colonial era was still several factors lower than 20th century pollution that was unprecedented over the entirety of human history.

Widespread pollution of the South American atmosphere predates the industrial revolution by 240 y.

PubMed

Uglietti, Chiara; Gabrielli, Paolo; Cooke, Colin A; Vallelonga, Paul; Thompson, Lonnie G

2015-02-24

In the Southern Hemisphere, evidence for preindustrial atmospheric pollution is restricted to a few geological archives of low temporal resolution that record trace element deposition originating from past mining and metallurgical operations in South America. Therefore, the timing and the spatial impact of these activities on the past atmosphere remain poorly constrained. Here we present an annually resolved ice core record (A.D. 793-1989) from the high-altitude drilling site of Quelccaya (Peru) that archives preindustrial and industrial variations in trace elements. During the precolonial period (i.e., pre-A.D. 1532), the deposition of trace elements was mainly dominated by the fallout of aeolian dust and of ash from occasional volcanic eruptions, indicating that metallurgic production during the Inca Empire (A.D. 1438-1532) had a negligible impact on the South American atmosphere. In contrast, a widespread anthropogenic signal is evident after around A.D. 1540, which corresponds with the beginning of colonial mining and metallurgy in Peru and Bolivia, ∼240 y before the Industrial Revolution. This shift was due to a major technological transition for silver extraction in South America (A.D. 1572), from lead-based smelting to mercury amalgamation, which precipitated a massive increase in mining activities. However, deposition of toxic trace metals during the Colonial era was still several factors lower than 20th century pollution that was unprecedented over the entirety of human history.

A comparison of methods to estimate seismic phase delays--Numerical examples for coda wave interferometry

USGS Publications Warehouse

Mikesell, T. Dylan; Malcolm, Alison E.; Yang, Di; Haney, Matthew M.

2015-01-01

Time-shift estimation between arrivals in two seismic traces before and after a velocity perturbation is a crucial step in many seismic methods. The accuracy of the estimated velocity perturbation location and amplitude depend on this time shift. Windowed cross correlation and trace stretching are two techniques commonly used to estimate local time shifts in seismic signals. In the work presented here, we implement Dynamic Time Warping (DTW) to estimate the warping function – a vector of local time shifts that globally minimizes the misfit between two seismic traces. We illustrate the differences of all three methods compared to one another using acoustic numerical experiments. We show that DTW is comparable to or better than the other two methods when the velocity perturbation is homogeneous and the signal-to-noise ratio is high. When the signal-to-noise ratio is low, we find that DTW and windowed cross correlation are more accurate than the stretching method. Finally, we show that the DTW algorithm has better time resolution when identifying small differences in the seismic traces for a model with an isolated velocity perturbation. These results impact current methods that utilize not only time shifts between (multiply) scattered waves, but also amplitude and decoherence measurements. DTW is a new tool that may find new applications in seismology and other geophysical methods (e.g., as a waveform inversion misfit function).

Observations of the Infrared Solar Spectrum from Space by the ATMOS Experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Abrams, M. C.; Goldman, A.; Gunson, M. R.; Rinsland, C. P.; Zander, R.

1999-01-01

The final flight of the Atmospheric Trace Molecule Spectroscopy experiment as part of the Atmospheric na Laboratory for Applications and Science (ATLAS-3) Space Shuttle mission in 1994 provided a new opportunity to measure broadband 625-4800/ cm, 2.1 - 16 micron infrared solar spectra at an unapodized resolution of 0.0l/ cm from space. The majority of the observations were obtained as exoatmospheric, of near Sun center, absorption spectra, which were later ratioed to grazing atmospheric measurements to compute the atmospheric transmission of the Earth's atmosphere and analyzed for vertical profiles of minor and trace gases. Relative to the SPACELAB-3 mission that produced 4800 high Sun spectra (which were averaged into four grand average spectra), the ATLAS-3 mission produced some 40,000 high Sun spectra (which have been similarly averaged) with an improvement in signal-to-noise ratio of a factor of 3-4 in the spectral region between 1000 and 4800/ cm. A brief description of the spectral calibration and spectral quality is given as well as the location of electronic archives of these spectra.

Tracing the Origins of Nitrogen Bearing Organics Toward Orion KL with Alma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carroll, Brandon; Crockett, Nathan; Wilkins, Olivia H.; Bergin, Edwin; Blake, Geoffrey

2017-06-01

A comprehensive analysis of a broadband 1.2 THz wide spectral survey of the Orion Kleinmann-Low nebula (Orion KL) has shown that nitrogen bearing complex organics trace systematically hotter gas than O-bearing organics toward this source. The origin of this O/N dichotomy remains a mystery. If complex molecules originate from grain surfaces, N-bearing species may be more difficult to remove from grain surfaces than O-bearing organics. Theoretical studies, however, have shown that hot (T=300 K) gas phase chemistry can produce high abundances of N-bearing organics while suppressing the formation of O-bearing complex molecules. In order to distinguish these distinct formation pathways we have obtained extremely high angular resolution observations of methyl cyanide (CH_3CN) using the Atacama Large Millimeter/Submillimeter Array (ALMA) toward Orion KL. By simultaneously imaging ^{13}CH_3CN and CH_2DCN we map the temperature structure and D/H ratio of CH_3CN. We will present updated results of these observations and discuss their implications for the formation of N-bearing organics in the interstellar medium.

Tracing the Origins of Nitrogen Bearing Organics Toward Orion KL with Alma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carroll, Brandon; Crockett, Nathan; Bergin, Edwin; Blake, Geoffrey

2016-06-01

A comprehensive analysis of a broadband 1.2 THz wide spectral survey of the Orion Kleinmann-Low nebula (Orion KL) from the Herschel Space Telescope has shown that nitrogen bearing complex organics trace systematically hotter gas than O-bearing organics toward this source. The origin of this O/N dichotomy remains a mystery. If complex molecules originate from grain surfaces, N-bearing species may be more difficult to remove from grain surfaces than O-bearing organics. Theoretical studies, however, have shown that hot (T=300 K) gas phase chemistry can produce high abundances of N-bearing organics while suppressing the formation of O-bearing complex molecules. In order to distinguish these distinct formation pathways we have obtained extremely high angular resolution observations of methyl cyanide (CH_3CN) using the Atacama Large Millimeter/Submillimeter Array (ALMA) toward Orion KL. By simultaneously imaging 13CH_3CN and CH_2DCN we map the temperature structure and D/H ratio of CH_3CN. We will present the initial results of these observations and discuss their implications for the formation of N-bearing organics in the interstellar medium.

Preparation of a novel hyperbranched carbosilane-silica hybrid coating for trace amount detection by solid phase microextraction/gas chromatography.

PubMed

Chen, Guowen; Li, Wenjie; Zhang, Chen; Zhou, Chuanjian; Feng, Shengyu

2012-09-21

Phenyl-ended hyperbranched carbosilane (HBC) is synthesized and immobilized onto the inner wall of a fused silica capillary column using a sol-gel process. The hybrid coating layer formed is used as a stationary phase for gas chromatography (GC) and as an adsorption medium for solid phase microextraction (SPME). Trifluoroacetic acid, as a catalyst in this process, helps produce a homogeneous hybrid coating layer. This result is beneficial for better column chromatographic performances, such as high efficiency and high resolution. Extraction tests using the novel hybrid layer show an extraordinarily large adsorption capacity and specific adsorption behavior for aromatic compounds. A 1 ppm trace level detectability is obtained with the SPME/GC work model when both of the stationary phase and adsorption layer bear a hyperbranched structure. A large amount of phenyl groups and a low viscosity of hyperbranched polymers contribute to these valuable properties, which are important to environment and safety control, wherein detection sensitivity and special adsorption behavior are usually required. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Thallium as a tracer for preindustrial volcanic eruptions in an ice core record from Illimani, Bolivia.

PubMed

Kellerhals, Thomas; Tobler, Leonhard; Brütsch, Sabina; Sigl, Michael; Wacker, Lukas; Gäggeler, Heinz W; Schwikowski, Margit

2010-02-01

Trace element records from glacier and ice sheet archives provide insights into biogeochemical cycles, atmospheric circulation changes, and anthropogenic pollution history. We present the first continuous high-resolution thallium (Tl) record, derived from an accurately dated ice core from tropical South America, and discuss Tl as a tracer for volcanic eruptions. We identify four prominent Tl peaks and propose that they represent signals from the massive explosive eruptions of the "unknown 1258" A.D. volcano, of Kuwae ( approximately 1450 A.D.), Tambora (1815 A.D.), and Krakatoa (1883 A.D.). The highly resolved record was obtained with an improved setup for the continuous analysis of trace elements in ice with inductively coupled plasma sector field mass spectrometry (ICP-SFMS). The new setup allowed for a stronger initial acidification of the meltwater and shorter tubing length, thereby reducing the risk of memory effects and losses of analytes to the capillary walls. With a comparison of the continuous method to the established conventional decontamination and analysis procedure for discrete samples, we demonstrate the accuracy of the continuous method for Tl analyses.

Electron-excited energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry at high speed and at high resolution: silicon drift detectors and microcalorimeters.

PubMed

Newbury, Dale E

2006-12-01

Two recent developments in X-ray spectrometer technology provide dramatic improvements in analytical capabilities that impact the frontiers of electron microscopy. Silicon drift detectors (SDD) use the same physics as silicon (lithium) energy dispersive spectrometers [Si(Li) EDS] but differ in design: only 10% of the thickness of the Si(Li) EDS with an anode area below 0.1 mm2 and a complex rear surface electrode pattern that creates a lateral internal charge collection field. The SDD equals or betters the Si(Li) EDS in most measures of performance. For output versus input count rate, the SDD exceeds the Si(Li) EDS by a factor of 5 to 10 for the same resolution. This high throughput can benefit analytical measurements that are count limited, such as X-ray mapping and trace measurements. The microcalorimeter EDS determines the X-ray energy by measuring the temperature rise in a metal absorber. Operating at 100 mK, the microcalorimeter EDS achieves resolution of 2-5 eV over a photon energy range of 200 eV to 10 keV in energy dispersive operation, eliminating most peak interference situations and providing high peak-to-background to detect low fluorescence yield peaks. Chemical bonding effects on low energy (< 2 keV) peak shapes can be measured.

Broad screening and identification of β-agonists in feed and animal body fluid and tissues using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-orbitrap high resolution mass spectrometry combined with spectra library search.

PubMed

Li, Tingting; Cao, Jingjing; Li, Zhen; Wang, Xian; He, Pingli

2016-02-01

Broad screening and identification of β-agonists in feed, serum, urine, muscle and liver samples was achieved in a quick and highly sensitive manner using ultra high performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-orbitrap high resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS) combined with a spectra library search. Solid-phase extraction technology was employed for sample purification and enrichment. After extraction and purification, the samples were analyzed using a Q-Orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometer under full-scan and data-dependent MS/MS mode. The acquired mass spectra were compared with an in-house library (compound library and MS/MS mass spectral library) built with TraceFinder Software which contained the M/Z of the precursor ion, chemical formula, retention time, character fragment ions and the entire MS/MS spectra of 32 β-agonist standards. Screening was achieved by comparing 5 key mass spectral results and positive matches were marked. Using the developed method, the identification results from 10 spiked samples and 238 actual samples indicated that only 2% of acquired mass spectra produced false identities. The method validation results showed that the limit of detection ranged from 0.021-3.854 μg kg(-1)and 0.015-1.198 ng mL(-1) for solid and liquid samples, respectively. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Portable Dual-comb Spectrometer for Stable Detection of Methane Leaks over Kilometer Scale Paths at Oil and Natural Gas Production Site

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Coburn, S.; Wright, R.; Cossel, K.; Truong, G. W.; Baumann, E.; Coddington, I.; Newbury, N.; Alden, C. B.; Ghosh, S.; Prasad, K.; Rieker, G. B.

2016-12-01

Newly proposed EPA regulations on volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions from oil and gas production facilities have been expanded to include methane, making the detection of this important trace gas a topic of growing interest to the oil and gas industry, regulators, and the scientific community in general. Reliable techniques that enable long-term monitoring of entire production facilities are needed in order to fully characterize the temporal and spatial trends of emissions from these sites. Recent advances in the development of compact and robust fiber frequency combs are enabling the use of this powerful spectroscopic tool outside of the laboratory, presenting opportunities for kilometer-scale open-path sensing of emissions at remote locations. Here we present the characterization and field deployment of a dual comb spectrometer (DCS) system with the potential to locate and size methane leaks from oil and gas production sites from long range. The DCS is a laser-based system that enables broad spectral absorption measurements (>50 nm) with high spectral resolution (<0.002 nm). Together these properties enable measurement of methane and other trace gas concentrations (e.g., H2O for deriving dry mole fractions) with high sensitivity and long-term stability from distances of 1 km or more. Field testing of this instrument has taken place at locations near Boulder, CO, demonstrating sensitivities of better than 2 ppb-km for methane. In addition, path integrated methane measurements from the DCS are coupled with an atmospheric inversion utilizing local meteorology and a high resolution fluid dynamics simulation to determine leak location and also derive a leak rate from simulated methane leaks

EUNIS: An Extreme-Ultraviolet Normal-Incidence Spectrometer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thomas, Roger J.; Davila, Joseph M.; Fisher, Richard R. (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

GSFC is in the process of assembling an Extreme-Ultraviolet Normal-Incidence Spectrometer called EUNIS, to be flown as a sounding rocket payload. This instrument builds on the many technical innovations pioneered by our highly successful SERTS experiment over its past ten flights. The new design will have somewhat improved spatial and spectral resolutions, as well as 100 times greater sensitivity, permitting EUV spectroscopy with a temporal resolution near 1-second for the first time ever. To achieve such high time cadence, a novel Active-Pixel-Sensor detector is being developed as a key component of our design. The high sensitivity of EUNIS will allow entirely new studies of transient coronal phenomena, such as the rapid loop dynamics seen by TRACE, and searches for non-thermal motions indicative of magnetic reconnection or wave heating. The increased sensitivity will also permit useful EUV spectra at heights of 2-3-R$ \\odot$ above the limb, where the transition between the static corona and the solar wind might occur. In addition, the new design features two independent optical systems, more than doubling the spectral bandwidth covered on each flight. Its 300-370\\AA\\ bandpass includes He-II 304\\AA\\ and strong lines from Fe-XI-XVI, extending the current SERTS range of 300-355\\AA\\ to further improve our ongoing series of calibration under-flights for SOHO/CDS and EIT. The second bandpass of 170-230\\AA\\ has a sequence of very strong Fe-IX-XIV lines, and will allow under-flight support for two more channels on SOHO/EIT, two channels on TRACE, one on Solar-B/EIS, and all four channels on the STEREO/EUVI instrument. First flight of the new EUNIS payload is scheduled for 2002 October.

Determination of dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls in 1 mL whole blood using programmable temperature vaporization large volume injection coupled to gas chromatogram and high-resolution mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Shen, Haitao; Guan, Rongfa; Li, Jingguang; Zhang, Lei; Ren, Yiping; Xu, Xiaomin; Song, Yang; Zhao, Yunfeng; Han, Jianlong; Wu, Yongning

2013-03-12

A sensitive method based on programmable temperature vaporization large volume injection coupled to gas chromatogram and high-resolution mass spectrometry (PTV-GC-HRMS) has been developed for the determination of ultra trace levels of dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (DL PCBs) in small amounts of human blood. Blood samples (1mL) were first extracted by column extraction and then purified with column chromatorgraphies. Final extracts (20μL) were introduced to the PTV injector under the solvent vent mode and detected by GC-HRMS (SIM mode). PTV parameters were observed by changing one factor at a time (practical conditions: vent flow: 50mLmin(-1), vent pressure: 0kPa and vent time: 0.1min), recoveries of most PCB congeners ranged from 55.1% to 108%, and method detection limits were in the range of 0.11-1.63pgg(-1). Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Relation of the spectroscopic reflectance of olivine to mineral chemistry and some remote sensing implications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

King, Trude V. V.; Ridley, W. Ian

1987-01-01

High-resolution visible and near-IR diffuse spectral reflectance are used to systematically investigate apparent wavelength shifts as a function of mineral chemistry in the Fe/Mg olivine series from Fo(11) to Fo(91). The study also shows that trace amounts of nickel can be spectrally detected in the olivine structure. Significant compositional information can only be extracted at relatively high resolution, because the overall spectral characteristics of the olivines change only subtly as a function of the Fe/Mg ratio. This laboratory study is expected to aid in the interpretation of remotely sensed data from both terrestrial and extraterrestrial bodies. Terrestrial applications may include the recognition of ultramafic, ultrabasic, and basaltic terrains which in themselves may have mineral potential. Among extraterrestrial applications, the asteroids are obvious candidates for further examination. Some permutations of Fe-Mg-Ni relations in olivines are discussed as they apply to the interpretation of asteroid surfaces and other extraterrestrial bodies.

Astrobiology Exploration Strategies for the Mars Polar Regions Using Balloon Platforms

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mahaffy, P. R.; Atreya, S. A.; Fairbrother, D. A.; Farrell, W. M.; Gorevan, S.; Jones, J.; Mitrofanov, I.; Scott, J.

2003-01-01

Montgolfiere balloons can provide a unique near-surface platform for an extended traverse over the polar regions of Mars. During the polar summer, such solar powered balloons would remain in the constant sun of the polar summer and could remain airborne for many weeks or even months as the atmospheric circulation would drive the balloons around the polar region many times before the balloon would cross the terminator. Such a platform for scientific measurements could provide in situ sampling of the atmosphere for trace disequilibrium species that might be indicators of present geological or biological activity in this region. It could furthermore provide high resolution imaging, deep electromagnetic (EM) sounding for subsurface stratigraphy and liquid water, and high spatial resolution neutron measurements of subsurface ice. Technologies for robust balloon deployment on entry and controlled encounters with the surface and near subsurface for sample acquisition in otherwise inaccessible regions are presently being studied and developed with support from NASA.

Astrobiology Exploration Strategies for the Mars Polar Regions Using Balloon Platforms

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mahaffy, P. R.; Atreya, S. A.; Fairbrother, D. A.; Farrell, W. M.; Gorevan, S.; Jones, J.; Mitrofanov, I.; Scott, J.

2003-01-01

Montgolfiere balloons can provide a unique near-surface platform for an extended traverse over the polar regions of Mars. During the polar summer, such solar powered balloons would remain in the constant sun of the polar summer and could remain airborne for many weeks or even months as the atmospheric circulation would drive the balloons around the polar region many times before the balloon would cross the terminator. Such a platform for scientific measurements could provide in situ sampling of the atmosphere for trace disequilibrium species that might be indicators of present geological or biological activity in this regon. It could furthermore provide high resolution imaging, deep electromagnetic (EM) sounding for subsurface stratigraphy and liquid water, and high spatial resolution neutron measurements of subsurface ice. Technologies for robust balloon deployment on entry and controlled encounters with the surface and near subsurface for sample acquisition in otherwise inaccessible regions are presently being studied and developed with support from NASA.

What Do High-Resolution EIT Waves Tell Us About CMEs?

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thompson, Barbara

2010-01-01

Although many studies have demonstrated that some coronal waves are not generated by corona) mass ejections, we have learned a great deal about the ability of corona) mass ejections to drive large-scale corona) waves, also called "EIT waves." We present new results based on EIT wave amplitude, timing, speed, and direction of propagation, with respect to their correlation with CME-related dimmings, speeds, locations and widths. Furthermore, we demonstrate the ability to correlate different aspects of EIT waves with some of the observed structure of CMEs observed in coronagraph data. Finally, we expand on the discussion of the types of wave modes that can be generated by a corona) mass ejection, and how these observations can serve as a diagnostic of the type of impulse a CME can deliver to the surrounding corona. These diagnostics are obtained by examining the motion of individual field lines, requiring high-resolution observations like those provided by TRACE and SDO/AIA.

Whole-body tissue stabilization and selective extractions via tissue-hydrogel hybrids for high-resolution intact circuit mapping and phenotyping.

PubMed

Treweek, Jennifer B; Chan, Ken Y; Flytzanis, Nicholas C; Yang, Bin; Deverman, Benjamin E; Greenbaum, Alon; Lignell, Antti; Xiao, Cheng; Cai, Long; Ladinsky, Mark S; Bjorkman, Pamela J; Fowlkes, Charless C; Gradinaru, Viviana

2015-11-01

To facilitate fine-scale phenotyping of whole specimens, we describe here a set of tissue fixation-embedding, detergent-clearing and staining protocols that can be used to transform excised organs and whole organisms into optically transparent samples within 1-2 weeks without compromising their cellular architecture or endogenous fluorescence. PACT (passive CLARITY technique) and PARS (perfusion-assisted agent release in situ) use tissue-hydrogel hybrids to stabilize tissue biomolecules during selective lipid extraction, resulting in enhanced clearing efficiency and sample integrity. Furthermore, the macromolecule permeability of PACT- and PARS-processed tissue hybrids supports the diffusion of immunolabels throughout intact tissue, whereas RIMS (refractive index matching solution) grants high-resolution imaging at depth by further reducing light scattering in cleared and uncleared samples alike. These methods are adaptable to difficult-to-image tissues, such as bone (PACT-deCAL), and to magnified single-cell visualization (ePACT). Together, these protocols and solutions enable phenotyping of subcellular components and tracing cellular connectivity in intact biological networks.

Simple procedures for enrichment of chlorinated aromatic pollutants from fat, water and milk for subsequent analysis by high-resolution methods

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

Egestad, B.; Curstedt, T.; Sjoevall, J.

1982-01-01

Procedures for enrichment of non-volatile chlorinated aromatic pollutants from fat, water and milk are described. /sup 14/C-DDT was used as a model compound in recovery experiments. A several thousand-fold enrichment of DDT added to butter was achieved by two consecutive straight-phase chromatographies on Lipidex 5000. Trace amounts of DDT in liter volumes of water could be quantitatively extracted by rapid filtration through 2 ml beds of Lipidex 1000. A batch extraction procedure permitted enrichment of DDT from milk after addition of n-pentylamine, methanol and water. DDT could then be eluted from the gel with retention of more than 90% ofmore » the lipids. A reversed-phase system with Lipidex 5000 could be used for separation of TCDD from DDT and PCBs. The liquid-gel chromatographic procedures are simple and suitable for clean-up of samples prior to application of high-resolution methods. 5 tables.« less

Scalable and Interactive Segmentation and Visualization of Neural Processes in EM Datasets

PubMed Central

Jeong, Won-Ki; Beyer, Johanna; Hadwiger, Markus; Vazquez, Amelio; Pfister, Hanspeter; Whitaker, Ross T.

2011-01-01

Recent advances in scanning technology provide high resolution EM (Electron Microscopy) datasets that allow neuroscientists to reconstruct complex neural connections in a nervous system. However, due to the enormous size and complexity of the resulting data, segmentation and visualization of neural processes in EM data is usually a difficult and very time-consuming task. In this paper, we present NeuroTrace, a novel EM volume segmentation and visualization system that consists of two parts: a semi-automatic multiphase level set segmentation with 3D tracking for reconstruction of neural processes, and a specialized volume rendering approach for visualization of EM volumes. It employs view-dependent on-demand filtering and evaluation of a local histogram edge metric, as well as on-the-fly interpolation and ray-casting of implicit surfaces for segmented neural structures. Both methods are implemented on the GPU for interactive performance. NeuroTrace is designed to be scalable to large datasets and data-parallel hardware architectures. A comparison of NeuroTrace with a commonly used manual EM segmentation tool shows that our interactive workflow is faster and easier to use for the reconstruction of complex neural processes. PMID:19834227

Biological forcing controls the chemistry of reef-building coral skeleton

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meibom, Anders; Mostefaoui, Smail; Cuif, Jean-Pierre; Dauphin, Yannicke; Houlbreque, Fanny; Dunbar, Robert; Constantz, Brent

2007-01-01

We present analyses of major elements C and Ca and trace elements N, S, Mg and Sr in a Porites sp. exoskeleton with a spatial resolution better than ˜150 nm. Trace element variations are evaluated directly against the ultra-structure of the skeleton and are ascribed to dynamic biological forcing. Individual growth layers in the bulk fibrous aragonite skeleton form on sub-daily timescales. Magnesium concentration variations are dramatically correlated with the growth layers, but are uncorrelated with Sr concentration variations. Observed (sub)seasonal relationships between water temperature and skeletal trace-element chemistry are secondary, mediated by sensitive biological processes to which classical thermodynamic formalism does not apply.

Investigating the Microscopic Location of Trace Elements in High-Alpine Glacier Ice

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Avak, Sven Erik; Birrer, Mario; Laurent, Oscar; Guillong, Marcel; Wälle, Markus; Jenk, Theo Manuel; Bartels-Rausch, Thorsten; Schwikowski, Margit; Eichler, Anja

2017-04-01

Past changes in atmospheric pollution can be reconstructed from high-alpine ice core trace element records (Schwikowski et al., 2004). Percolation of meltwater alters the information originally stored in these environmental archives. Eichler et al. (2001) suggested that the preservation of major ions with respect to meltwater percolation depends on their location in the crystal ice lattice, i.e. grain boundaries versus grain interiors. Other studies have also focused on the effect of meltwater on organic pollutant concentrations as well as on stable isotope profiles in ice cores, whereas no information exists about trace elements. Here, we investigate for the first time the effect of the microscopic location of anthropogenic, dust and volcanic related trace elements on the behavior during meltwater percolation by using two different approaches. On the one hand we assess the microscopic location of trace elements indirectly by analyzing trace element concentrations in a high-alpine ice core, which has been shown to be affected by an inflow of meltwater, using discrete inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Impurities located at grain boundaries are prone to be removed by meltwater and tend to be depleted in the affected section of the record whereas those incorporated into the ice interior are preserved and not disturbed in the record. In the second approach we work towards a direct quantification of differences in concentrations of trace elements between ice grain boundaries and grain interiors in samples both from unaffected and affected sections of this ice core. Therefore we use cryocell laser ablation (LA) ICP-MS, which is the method of choice for the direct in situ chemical analysis of trace elements at a sub-millimeter resolution in glacier ice (Reinhardt et al., 2001, Della Lunga et al., 2014, Sneed et al., 2015). We will present first results of both approaches with regard to the evaluation of the potential of trace elements as environmental proxies in glaciers partially affected by melting. References Della Lunga, D., Müller, W., Rasmussen, S. O. & Svensson, A. 2014: Location of cation impurities in NGRIP deep ice revealed by cryo-cell UV-laser-ablation ICPMS, Journal of Glaciology, 60, 970-988. Eichler, A., Schwikowski, M., Gäggeler, H. W. 2001: Meltwater-induced relocation of chemical species in Alpine firn, Tellus B, 53, 192-203. Reinhardt, H., Kriews, M., Miller, H., Schrems, O., Lüdke, C., Hoffmann, E. & Skole, J. 2001: Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry: a new tool for trace element analysis in ice cores, Fresenius' Journal of Analytical Chemistry, 370, 629-636. Schwikowski, M., Barbante, C., Doering, T., Gäggeler, H. W., Boutron, C., Schotterer, U., Tobler, L., van de Velde, K., Ferrari, C., Cozzi, G., Rosman, K., Cescon, P. 2004: Post-17th-Century Changes of European Lead Emissions Recorded in High-Altitude Alpine Snow and Ice, Environmental Science & Technology, 38, 957-964. Sneed, S. B., Mayewski, P. A., Sayre, W. G., Handley, M. J., Kurbatov, A. V., Taylor, K. C., Bohleber, P., Wagenbach, D., Erhardt, T. & Spaulding, N. E. 2015: New LA-ICP-MS cryocell and calibration technique for sub-millimeter analysis of ice cores, Journal of Glaciology, 61, 233-242.

High-resolution topography along surface rupture of the 16 October 1999 Hector Mine, California (Mw 7.1) from airborne laser swath mapping

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hudnutt, K.W.; Borsa, A.; Glennie, C.; Minster, J.-B.

2002-01-01

In order to document surface rupture associated with the Hector Mine earthquake, in particular, the area of maximum slip and the deformed surface of Lavic Lake playa, we acquired high-resolution data using relatively new topographic-mapping methods. We performed a raster-laser scan of the main surface breaks along the entire rupture zone, as well as along an unruptured portion of the Bullion fault. The image of the ground surface produced by this method is highly detailed, comparable to that obtained when geologists make particularly detailed site maps for geomorphic or paleoseismic studies. In this case, however, for the first time after a surface-rupturing earthquake, the detailed mapping is along the entire fault zone rather than being confined to selected sites. These data are geodetically referenced, using the Global Positioning System, thus enabling more accurate mapping of the rupture traces. In addition, digital photographs taken along the same flight lines can be overlaid onto the precise topographic data, improving terrain visualization. We demonstrate the potential of these techniques for measuring fault-slip vectors.

Estimation of integral curves from high angular resolution diffusion imaging (HARDI) data.

PubMed

Carmichael, Owen; Sakhanenko, Lyudmila

2015-05-15

We develop statistical methodology for a popular brain imaging technique HARDI based on the high order tensor model by Özarslan and Mareci [10]. We investigate how uncertainty in the imaging procedure propagates through all levels of the model: signals, tensor fields, vector fields, and fibers. We construct asymptotically normal estimators of the integral curves or fibers which allow us to trace the fibers together with confidence ellipsoids. The procedure is computationally intense as it blends linear algebra concepts from high order tensors with asymptotical statistical analysis. The theoretical results are illustrated on simulated and real datasets. This work generalizes the statistical methodology proposed for low angular resolution diffusion tensor imaging by Carmichael and Sakhanenko [3], to several fibers per voxel. It is also a pioneering statistical work on tractography from HARDI data. It avoids all the typical limitations of the deterministic tractography methods and it delivers the same information as probabilistic tractography methods. Our method is computationally cheap and it provides well-founded mathematical and statistical framework where diverse functionals on fibers, directions and tensors can be studied in a systematic and rigorous way.

Estimation of integral curves from high angular resolution diffusion imaging (HARDI) data

PubMed Central

Carmichael, Owen; Sakhanenko, Lyudmila

2015-01-01

We develop statistical methodology for a popular brain imaging technique HARDI based on the high order tensor model by Özarslan and Mareci [10]. We investigate how uncertainty in the imaging procedure propagates through all levels of the model: signals, tensor fields, vector fields, and fibers. We construct asymptotically normal estimators of the integral curves or fibers which allow us to trace the fibers together with confidence ellipsoids. The procedure is computationally intense as it blends linear algebra concepts from high order tensors with asymptotical statistical analysis. The theoretical results are illustrated on simulated and real datasets. This work generalizes the statistical methodology proposed for low angular resolution diffusion tensor imaging by Carmichael and Sakhanenko [3], to several fibers per voxel. It is also a pioneering statistical work on tractography from HARDI data. It avoids all the typical limitations of the deterministic tractography methods and it delivers the same information as probabilistic tractography methods. Our method is computationally cheap and it provides well-founded mathematical and statistical framework where diverse functionals on fibers, directions and tensors can be studied in a systematic and rigorous way. PMID:25937674

Evaluation of LiDAR Imagery as a Tool for Mapping the Northern San Andreas Fault in Heavily Forested Areas of Mendocino and Sonoma Counties, California

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prentice, C. S.; Koehler, R. D.; Baldwin, J. N.; Harding, D. J.

2004-12-01

We are mapping in detail active traces of the San Andreas Fault in Mendocino and Sonoma Counties in northern California, using recently acquired airborne LiDAR (also known as ALSM) data. The LiDAR data set provides a powerful new tool for mapping geomorphic features related to the San Andreas Fault because it can be used to produce high-resolution images of the ground surfaces beneath the forest canopy along the 70-km-long section of the fault zone encompassed by the data. Our effort represents the first use of LiDAR data to map active fault traces in a densely vegetated region along the San Andreas Fault. We are using shaded relief images generated from bare-earth DEMs to conduct detailed mapping of fault-related geomorphic features (e.g. scarps, offset streams, linear valleys, shutter ridges, and sag ponds) between Fort Ross and Point Arena. Initially, we map fault traces digitally, on-screen, based only on the geomorphology interpreted from LiDAR images. We then conduct field reconnaissance using the initial computer-based maps in order to verify and further refine our mapping. We found that field reconnaissance is of utmost importance in producing an accurate and detailed map of fault traces. Many lineaments identified as faults from the on-screen images were determined in the field to be old logging roads or other features unrelated to faulting. Also, in areas where the resolution of LiDAR data is poor, field reconnaissance, coupled with topographic maps and aerial photographs, permits a more accurate location of fault-related geomorphic features. LiDAR images are extremely valuable as a base for field mapping in this heavily forested area, and the use of LiDAR is far superior to traditional mapping techniques relying only on aerial photography and 7.5 minute USGS quadrangle topographic maps. Comparison with earlier mapping of the northern San Andreas fault (Brown and Wolfe, 1972) shows that in some areas the LiDAR data allow a correction of the fault trace location of up to several hundred meters. To date we have field checked approximately 24 km of the 70-km-long section of the fault for which LiDAR data is available. The remaining 46 km will be field checked in 2005. The result will be a much more accurate map of the active traces of the northern San Andreas Fault, which will be of great use for future fault studies.

Contamination characteristics, ecological risk and source identification of trace metals in sediments of the Le'an River (China).

PubMed

Chen, Haiyang; Chen, Ruihui; Teng, Yanguo; Wu, Jin

2016-03-01

Recognizing the pollution characteristics of trace metals in river sediments and targeting their potential sources are of key importance for proposing effective strategies to protect watershed ecosystem health. In this study, a comprehensive investigation was conducted to identify the contamination and risk characteristics of trace metals in sediments of Le'an River which is a main tributary of the largest freshwater lake in China, Poyang Lake. To attain this objective, several tools and models were considered. Geoaccumulation index and enrichment factor were used to understand the general pollution characteristic of trace metals in sediments. Discriminant analysis was applied to identify the spatial variability of sediment metals. Sediment quality guidelines and potential ecological risk index were employed for ecological risk evaluation. Multivariate curve resolution-alternating least square was proposed to extract potential pollution sources, as well as the application of Monte-Carlo simulation for uncertainty analysis of source identification. Results suggested that the sediments in Le'an River were considerably polluted by the investigated trace metals (Cd, Cr, As, Hg, Pb, Cu, Zn and Ni). Sediment concentrations of these metals showed significant spatial variations. The potential ecological risk lay in high level. Comparatively speaking, the metals of Cd, Cu and Hg were likely to result in more harmful effects. Mining activities and the application of fertilizers and agrochemicals were identified as the main anthropogenic sources. To protect the ecological system of Le'an River and Poyang Lake watershed, industrial mining and agricultural activities in this area should to be strictly regulated. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Divertor impurity monitor for the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sugie, T.; Ogawa, H.; Nishitani, T.; Kasai, S.; Katsunuma, J.; Maruo, M.; Ebisawa, K.; Ando, T.; Kita, Y.

1999-01-01

The divertor impurity monitoring system of the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor has been designed. The main functions of this system are to identify impurity species and to measure the two-dimensional distributions of the particle influxes in the divertor plasmas. The wavelength range is 200-1000 nm. The viewing fans are realized by molybdenum mirrors located in the divertor cassette. With additional viewing fans seeing through the gap between the divertor cassettes, the region approximately from the divertor leg to the x point will be observed. The light from the divertor region passes through the quartz windows on the divertor port plug and the cryostat, and goes through the dog-leg optics in the biological shield. Three different type of spectrometers: (i) survey spectrometers for impurity species monitoring, (ii) filter spectrometers for the particle influx measurement with the spatial resolution of 10 mm and the time resolution of 1 ms, and (iii) high dispersion spectrometers for high resolution wavelength measurements are designed. These spectrometers are installed just behind the biological shield (for λ<450 nm) to prevent the transmission loss in fiber and in the diagnostic room (for λ⩾450 nm) from the point of view of accessibility and flexibility. The optics have been optimized by a ray trace analysis. As a result, 10-15 mm spatial resolution will be achieved in all regions of the divertor.

Monte Carlo simulation of the resolution volume for the SEQUOIA spectrometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Granroth, G. E.; Hahn, S. E.

2015-01-01

Monte Carlo ray tracing simulations, of direct geometry spectrometers, have been particularly useful in instrument design and characterization. However, these tools can also be useful for experiment planning and analysis. To this end, the McStas Monte Carlo ray tracing model of SEQUOIA, the fine resolution fermi chopper spectrometer at the Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) of Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), has been modified to include the time of flight resolution sample and detector components. With these components, the resolution ellipsoid can be calculated for any detector pixel and energy bin of the instrument. The simulation is split in two pieces. First, the incident beamline up to the sample is simulated for 1 × 1011 neutron packets (4 days on 30 cores). This provides a virtual source for the backend that includes the resolution sample and monitor components. Next, a series of detector and energy pixels are computed in parallel. It takes on the order of 30 s to calculate a single resolution ellipsoid on a single core. Python scripts have been written to transform the ellipsoid into the space of an oriented single crystal, and to characterize the ellipsoid in various ways. Though this tool is under development as a planning tool, we have successfully used it to provide the resolution function for convolution with theoretical models. Specifically, theoretical calculations of the spin waves in YFeO3 were compared to measurements taken on SEQUOIA. Though the overall features of the spectra can be explained while neglecting resolution effects, the variation in intensity of the modes is well described once the resolution is included. As this was a single sharp mode, the simulated half intensity value of the resolution ellipsoid was used to provide the resolution width. A description of the simulation, its use, and paths forward for this technique will be discussed.

Adaptive mapping functions to the azimuthal anisotropy of the neutral atmosphere

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gegout, P.; Biancale, R.; Soudarin, L.

2011-10-01

The anisotropy of propagation of radio waves used by global navigation satellite systems is investigated using high-resolution observational data assimilations produced by the European Centre for Medium-range Weather Forecast. The geometry and the refractivity of the neutral atmosphere are built introducing accurate geodetic heights and continuous formulations of the refractivity and its gradient. Hence the realistic ellipsoidal shape of the refractivity field above the topography is properly represented. Atmospheric delays are obtained by ray-tracing through the refractivity field, integrating the eikonal differential system. Ray-traced delays reveal the anisotropy of the atmosphere. With the aim to preserve the classical mapping function strategy, mapping functions can evolve to adapt to high-frequency atmospheric fluctuations and to account for the anisotropy of propagation by fitting at each site and time the zenith delays and the mapping functions coefficients. Adaptive mapping functions (AMF) are designed with coefficients of the continued fraction form which depend on azimuth. The basic idea is to expand the azimuthal dependency of the coefficients in Fourier series introducing a multi-scale azimuthal decomposition which slightly changes the elevation functions with the azimuth. AMF are used to approximate thousands of atmospheric ray-traced delays using a few tens of coefficients. Generic recursive definitions of the AMF and their partial derivatives lead to observe that the truncation of the continued fraction form at the third term and the truncation of the azimuthal Fourier series at the fourth term are sufficient in usual meteorological conditions. Delays' and elevations' mapping functions allow to store and to retrieve the ray-tracing results to solve the parallax problem at the observation level. AMF are suitable to fit the time-variable isotropic and anisotropic parts of the ray-traced delays at each site at each time step and to provide GPS range corrections at the measurement level with millimeter accuracy at low elevation. AMF to the azimuthal anisotropy of the neutral atmosphere are designed to adapt to complex weather conditions by adaptively changing their truncations.

Development of an accurate, sensitive, and robust isotope dilution laser ablation ICP-MS method for simultaneous multi-element analysis (chlorine, sulfur, and heavy metals) in coal samples.

PubMed

Boulyga, Sergei F; Heilmann, Jens; Prohaska, Thomas; Heumann, Klaus G

2007-10-01

A method for the direct multi-element determination of Cl, S, Hg, Pb, Cd, U, Br, Cr, Cu, Fe, and Zn in powdered coal samples has been developed by applying inductively coupled plasma isotope dilution mass spectrometry (ICP-IDMS) with laser-assisted introduction into the plasma. A sector-field ICP-MS with a mass resolution of 4,000 and a high-ablation rate laser ablation system provided significantly better sensitivity, detection limits, and accuracy compared to a conventional laser ablation system coupled with a quadrupole ICP-MS. The sensitivity ranges from about 590 cps for (35)Cl+ to more than 6 x 10(5) cps for (238)U+ for 1 microg of trace element per gram of coal sample. Detection limits vary from 450 ng g(-1) for chlorine and 18 ng g(-1) for sulfur to 9.5 pg g(-1) for mercury and 0.3 pg g(-1) for uranium. Analyses of minor and trace elements in four certified reference materials (BCR-180 Gas Coal, BCR-331 Steam Coal, SRM 1632c Trace Elements in Coal, SRM 1635 Trace Elements in Coal) yielded good agreement of usually not more than 5% deviation from the certified values and precisions of less than 10% relative standard deviation for most elements. Higher relative standard deviations were found for particular elements such as Hg and Cd caused by inhomogeneities due to associations of these elements within micro-inclusions in coal which was demonstrated for Hg in SRM 1635, SRM 1632c, and another standard reference material (SRM 2682b, Sulfur and Mercury in Coal). The developed LA-ICP-IDMS method with its simple sample pretreatment opens the possibility for accurate, fast, and highly sensitive determinations of environmentally critical contaminants in coal as well as of trace impurities in similar sample materials like graphite powder and activated charcoal on a routine basis.

Analytical possibilities of highly focused ion beams in biomedical field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ren, M. Q.; Ji, X.; Vajandar, S. K.; Mi, Z. H.; Hoi, A.; Walczyk, T.; van Kan, J. A.; Bettiol, A. A.; Watt, F.; Osipowicz, T.

2017-09-01

At the Centre for Ion Beam Applications (CIBA), a 3.5 MV HVEE Singletron™ accelerator serves to provide MeV ion beams (mostly protons or He+) to six state-of-the-art beam lines, four of which are equipped with Oxford triplet magnetic quadrupole lens systems. This facility is used for a wide range of research projects, many of which are in the field of biomedicine. Here we presented a discussion of currently ongoing biomedical work carried out using two beamlines: The Nuclear Microscopy (NM) beamline is mainly used for trace elemental quantitative mapping using a combination of Particle Induced X-ray Emission (PIXE), to measure the trace elemental concentration of inorganic elements, Rutherford Backscattering Spectrometry (RBS), to characterise the organic matrix, and Scanning Transmission Ion Microscopy (STIM) to provide information on the lateral areal density variations of the specimen. Typically, a 2.1 MeV proton beam, focused to 1-2 μm spot size with a current of 100 pA is used. The high resolution single cell imaging beamline is equipped with direct STIM to image the interior structure of single cells with proton and alpha particles of sub-50 nm beam spot sizes. Simultaneously, forward scattering transmission ion microscopy (FSTIM) is utilized to generate images with improved contrast of nanoparticles with higher atomic numbers, such as gold nanoparticles, and fluorescent nanoparticles can be imaged using Proton Induced Fluorescence (PIF). Lastly, in this facility, RBS has been included as an option if required to determine the depth distribution of nanoparticles in cells, albeit with reduced spatial resolution.

Cavity ring-down spectroscopy using an EC-QCL operating at 7.5 µm for direct monitoring of methane isotopes in air

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maity, Abhijit; Pal, Mithun; Dutta Banik, Gourab; Maithani, Sanchi; Pradhan, Manik

2017-11-01

A number of atmospheric pollutants and greenhouse gases have strong fundamental vibrational transitions within the spectral range of 7.5-8 µm, which marks the region as particularly important for trace gas sensing. Here, we report the development of a mid-infrared continuous-wave (cw) cavity ring-down spectroscopy (CRDS) technique coupled with an external-cavity (EC) mode-hop-free quantum cascade laser (QCL) operating at 7.5 µm. We validated the EC-QCL based high-resolution cw-CRDS system by measuring 12CH4 and 13CH4 isotopes of methane (CH4) which served as a benchmark molecule. The direct, quantitative and selective measurements of 12C and 13C isotopes of CH4 in ambient air as well as in human breath samples in the levels of parts per billion by volume were made by probing one of the strongest fundamental vibrational transitions of CH4 arising from the asymmetric bending (ν 4 band) vibrations of the bonds centred at ~1327.244 cm-1 and ~1332.946 cm-1, respectively. We achieved a noise-equivalent absorption coefficient of 1.86  ×  10-9 cm-1 Hz-1/2 with 100 Hz data acquisition rate for the current cw-CRDS spectrometer. The current high-resolution cw-CRDS system could be further exploited to harness the full advantage of the spectral region covering 7.5-8 µm to monitor several other trace molecular species along with their isotopic compositions.

Collocated ionosonde and dense GPS/GLONASS network measurements of midlatitude MSTIDs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sherstyukov, R. O.; Akchurin, A. D.; Sherstyukov, O. N.

2018-04-01

To analyze midlatitude medium-scale travelling ionospheric disturbances (MSTIDs) over Kazan (55.5°N, 49°E), Russia, the sufficiently dense network of GNSS receivers (more than 150 ground-based stations) were used. For the first time, daytime MSTIDs in the form of their main signature (band structure) on high-resolution two-dimensional maps of the total electron content perturbation (TEC maps) are compared with ionosonde data with a high temporal resolution. For a pair of events, a relationship between southwestward TEC perturbations and evolution of F2 layer traces was established. So F2 peak frequency varied in antiphase to TEC perturbations. The ionograms show that during the movement of plasma depletion band (overhead ionosonde) the F2 peak frequency is the highest, and vice versa, for the plasma enhancement band, the F2 peak frequency is the lowest. One possible explanation may be a greater inclination of the radio beam from the vertical during the placement of a plasma enhancement band above the ionosonde, as evidenced by the absence of multiple reflections and the increased occurrence rate of additional cusp trace. Another possible explanation may be the redistribution of the electron content in the topside ionosphere with a small decrease in the F peak concentration of the layer with a small increase in TEC along the line-of-sight. Analysis of F2 peak frequency variation shows that observed peak-to-peak values of TEC perturbation equal to 0.4 and 1 TECU correspond to the values of ΔN/N equal to 13% and 28%. The need for further research is evident.

A multi-MHz single-shot data acquisition scheme with high dynamic range: pump-probe X-ray experiments at synchrotrons.

PubMed

Britz, Alexander; Assefa, Tadesse A; Galler, Andreas; Gawelda, Wojciech; Diez, Michael; Zalden, Peter; Khakhulin, Dmitry; Fernandes, Bruno; Gessler, Patrick; Sotoudi Namin, Hamed; Beckmann, Andreas; Harder, Manuel; Yavaş, Hasan; Bressler, Christian

2016-11-01

The technical implementation of a multi-MHz data acquisition scheme for laser-X-ray pump-probe experiments with pulse limited temporal resolution (100 ps) is presented. Such techniques are very attractive to benefit from the high-repetition rates of X-ray pulses delivered from advanced synchrotron radiation sources. Exploiting a synchronized 3.9 MHz laser excitation source, experiments in 60-bunch mode (7.8 MHz) at beamline P01 of the PETRA III storage ring are performed. Hereby molecular systems in liquid solutions are excited by the pulsed laser source and the total X-ray fluorescence yield (TFY) from the sample is recorded using silicon avalanche photodiode detectors (APDs). The subsequent digitizer card samples the APD signal traces in 0.5 ns steps with 12-bit resolution. These traces are then processed to deliver an integrated value for each recorded single X-ray pulse intensity and sorted into bins according to whether the laser excited the sample or not. For each subgroup the recorded single-shot values are averaged over ∼10 7  pulses to deliver a mean TFY value with its standard error for each data point, e.g. at a given X-ray probe energy. The sensitivity reaches down to the shot-noise limit, and signal-to-noise ratios approaching 1000 are achievable in only a few seconds collection time per data point. The dynamic range covers 100 photons pulse -1 and is only technically limited by the utilized APD.

Trace element analysis by EPMA in geosciences: detection limit, precision and accuracy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Batanova, V. G.; Sobolev, A. V.; Magnin, V.

2018-01-01

Use of the electron probe microanalyser (EPMA) for trace element analysis has increased over the last decade, mainly because of improved stability of spectrometers and the electron column when operated at high probe current; development of new large-area crystal monochromators and ultra-high count rate spectrometers; full integration of energy-dispersive / wavelength-dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDS/WDS) signals; and the development of powerful software packages. For phases that are stable under a dense electron beam, the detection limit and precision can be decreased to the ppm level by using high acceleration voltage and beam current combined with long counting time. Data on 10 elements (Na, Al, P, Ca, Ti, Cr, Mn, Co, Ni, Zn) in olivine obtained on a JEOL JXA-8230 microprobe with tungsten filament show that the detection limit decreases proportionally to the square root of counting time and probe current. For all elements equal or heavier than phosphorus (Z = 15), the detection limit decreases with increasing accelerating voltage. The analytical precision for minor and trace elements analysed in olivine at 25 kV accelerating voltage and 900 nA beam current is 4 - 18 ppm (2 standard deviations of repeated measurements of the olivine reference sample) and is similar to the detection limit of corresponding elements. To analyse trace elements accurately requires careful estimation of background, and consideration of sample damage under the beam and secondary fluorescence from phase boundaries. The development and use of matrix reference samples with well-characterised trace elements of interest is important for monitoring and improving of the accuracy. An evaluation of the accuracy of trace element analyses in olivine has been made by comparing EPMA data for new reference samples with data obtained by different in-situ and bulk analytical methods in six different laboratories worldwide. For all elements, the measured concentrations in the olivine reference sample were found to be identical (within internal precision) to reference values, suggesting that achieved precision and accuracy are similar. The spatial resolution of EPMA in a silicate matrix, even at very extreme conditions (accelerating voltage 25 kV), does not exceed 7 - 8 μm and thus is still better than laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) or secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) of similar precision. These make the electron microprobe an indispensable method with applications in experimental petrology, geochemistry and cosmochemistry.

Palaeoglaciology of the Central European Uplands - a link between the former ice masses over the Alps and Scandinavia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hauzenberger, B.; Fickert, T.

2009-04-01

The Central European Uplands are located northeast of the Alps along the western edge of the Czech border. A horseshoe shaped range of low mountains contains the Bavarian Forest Mountains, the Fichtel Mountains, the Erz Mountains and the Giant Mountains, with highest summit altitudes ranging from 1051 m a.s.l. (Fichtel Mountains) to 1603 m a.s.l. (Giant Mountains). The location north of the Alps makes these mountains highly interesting as a possible link between the Scandinavian ice sheet and the Alps. Although the glacial traces of the Central European Uplands have been investigated for more than 100 years, the glacial history is still elusive. While the highest mountains (the Bavarian Forest and the Giant Mountains) hold evidence of valley glaciers, the lower mountains (the Fichtel and the Erz Mountains) lack unambiguous glacial traces. As a first step towards a palaeoglaciological reconstruction for the Central European Uplands, we present a digital map of glacier termini with elevation data from the SRTM elevation model, compiled from previous investigations of the area. The glacial map of the Central European Uplands presents the pattern of glacial traces over an extensive area in central Europe and forms the basis for reconstructing the extent of former glaciers. We compare the glacial evidence with modern day climate data (from the high resolution WorldClim database), from which we can estimate the climate change needed to produce Central European Upland glaciers. The glacial traces of the Central European Uplands hold information on past climate of the region and this may be a key to link the glacial record of the Alps with the Scandinavian ice sheet.

Artificial Neural Network as the FPGA Trigger in the Cyclone V based Front-End for a Detection of Neutrino-Origin Showers

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

Szadkowski, Zbigniew; Glas, Dariusz; Pytel, Krzysztof

Neutrinos play a fundamental role in the understanding of the origin of ultra-high-energy cosmic rays. They interact through charged and neutral currents in the atmosphere generating extensive air showers. However, their a very low rate of events potentially generated by neutrinos is a significant challenge for a detection technique and requires both sophisticated algorithms and high-resolution hardware. A trigger based on a artificial neural network was implemented into the Cyclone{sup R} V E FPGA 5CEFA9F31I7 - the heart of the prototype Front-End boards developed for tests of new algorithms in the Pierre Auger surface detectors. Showers for muon and taumore » neutrino initiating particles on various altitudes, angles and energies were simulated in CORSICA and Offline platforms giving pattern of ADC traces in Auger water Cherenkov detectors. The 3-layer 12-8-1 neural network was taught in MATLAB by simulated ADC traces according the Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm. Results show that a probability of a ADC traces generation is very low due to a small neutrino cross-section. Nevertheless, ADC traces, if occur, for 1-10 EeV showers are relatively short and can be analyzed by 16-point input algorithm. We optimized the coefficients from MATLAB to get a maximal range of potentially registered events and for fixed-point FPGA processing to minimize calculation errors. New sophisticated triggers implemented in Cyclone{sup R} V E FPGAs with large amount of DSP blocks, embedded memory running with 120 - 160 MHz sampling may support a discovery of neutrino events in the Pierre Auger Observatory. (authors)« less

Trace elements records from vermetids aragonite as millennial paleo-oceanographic archives in the South-East Mediterranean

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jacobson, Yitzhak; Yam, Ruth; Shemesh, Aldo

2017-04-01

The Mediterranean Sea is a region under high anthropogenic stress, thus a hotspot for climate change studies. Natural conditions, such as SST, productivity, precipitation and dust fluxes along with human induced activity affect seawater chemistry. We study millennial variability of trace elements in East Mediterranean Sea high-resolution records, in attempt to connect them to environmental factors. The Mediterranean reef builder Vermetid, D. petraeum is a sessile gastropod, secreting its aragonite shells in tidal zones. Cores of Vermetid reefs from the South Eastern Mediterranean (Israel) were previously analyzed by Sisma?Ventura et al. (2014) to reconstruct seawater surface temperature (SST) and δ13C of dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC). In this study we analyzed trace elements of these vermetid cores, and reconstructed millennial records of elements to calcium (el/Ca) molar ratios. Vermetid trace element contents from recent decades are mostly in agreement with known values for marine biogenic aragonites from corals and mollusk. We divide vermetid trace element records into three element groups: 1) Sr and U are related to SST and DIC. These elements correlate with major climatic events of the last millennium, such as the Medieval Warm Period (900-1300 AD) and the Little Ice Age (1450-1850 AD). 2) Pb and Cd are related to anthropogenic pollution and demonstrate industrial sourced trends throughout the anthropocene (since 1750 AD). 3) Terrogenous elements, including Fe, Al, Mn and V. Al in seawater and sediments has been used to trace water masses and land derived sediment source. We observe a major change in average vermetid Al/Fe ratios from 0.5 to 2.5 over the recorded period (n=72). This vermetid Al/Fe change points at a possible shift from Nilotic sediments (0.1-0.5 Al/Fe molar ratio) to Saharan dust ratio (2-4 Al/Fe molar ratio). Mn and V show a similar variability to Fe. Understanding the variability of vermetid TE can help us interpret the relative dominance of different climate systems and anthropogenic processes on the East Mediterranean environment.

The Atmospheric Chemistry Suite (ACS) of Three Spectrometers for the ExoMars 2016 Trace Gas Orbiter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Korablev, O.; Montmessin, F.; Trokhimovskiy, A.; Fedorova, A. A.; Shakun, A. V.; Grigoriev, A. V.; Moshkin, B. E.; Ignatiev, N. I.; Forget, F.; Lefèvre, F.; Anufreychik, K.; Dzuban, I.; Ivanov, Y. S.; Kalinnikov, Y. K.; Kozlova, T. O.; Kungurov, A.; Makarov, V.; Martynovich, F.; Maslov, I.; Merzlyakov, D.; Moiseev, P. P.; Nikolskiy, Y.; Patrakeev, A.; Patsaev, D.; Santos-Skripko, A.; Sazonov, O.; Semena, N.; Semenov, A.; Shashkin, V.; Sidorov, A.; Stepanov, A. V.; Stupin, I.; Timonin, D.; Titov, A. Y.; Viktorov, A.; Zharkov, A.; Altieri, F.; Arnold, G.; Belyaev, D. A.; Bertaux, J. L.; Betsis, D. S.; Duxbury, N.; Encrenaz, T.; Fouchet, T.; Gérard, J.-C.; Grassi, D.; Guerlet, S.; Hartogh, P.; Kasaba, Y.; Khatuntsev, I.; Krasnopolsky, V. A.; Kuzmin, R. O.; Lellouch, E.; Lopez-Valverde, M. A.; Luginin, M.; Määttänen, A.; Marcq, E.; Martin Torres, J.; Medvedev, A. S.; Millour, E.; Olsen, K. S.; Patel, M. R.; Quantin-Nataf, C.; Rodin, A. V.; Shematovich, V. I.; Thomas, I.; Thomas, N.; Vazquez, L.; Vincendon, M.; Wilquet, V.; Wilson, C. F.; Zasova, L. V.; Zelenyi, L. M.; Zorzano, M. P.

2018-02-01

The Atmospheric Chemistry Suite (ACS) package is an element of the Russian contribution to the ESA-Roscosmos ExoMars 2016 Trace Gas Orbiter (TGO) mission. ACS consists of three separate infrared spectrometers, sharing common mechanical, electrical, and thermal interfaces. This ensemble of spectrometers has been designed and developed in response to the Trace Gas Orbiter mission objectives that specifically address the requirement of high sensitivity instruments to enable the unambiguous detection of trace gases of potential geophysical or biological interest. For this reason, ACS embarks a set of instruments achieving simultaneously very high accuracy (ppt level), very high resolving power (>10,000) and large spectral coverage (0.7 to 17 μm—the visible to thermal infrared range). The near-infrared (NIR) channel is a versatile spectrometer covering the 0.7-1.6 μm spectral range with a resolving power of ˜20,000. NIR employs the combination of an echelle grating with an AOTF (Acousto-Optical Tunable Filter) as diffraction order selector. This channel will be mainly operated in solar occultation and nadir, and can also perform limb observations. The scientific goals of NIR are the measurements of water vapor, aerosols, and dayside or night side airglows. The mid-infrared (MIR) channel is a cross-dispersion echelle instrument dedicated to solar occultation measurements in the 2.2-4.4 μm range. MIR achieves a resolving power of >50,000. It has been designed to accomplish the most sensitive measurements ever of the trace gases present in the Martian atmosphere. The thermal-infrared channel (TIRVIM) is a 2-inch double pendulum Fourier-transform spectrometer encompassing the spectral range of 1.7-17 μm with apodized resolution varying from 0.2 to 1.3 cm-1. TIRVIM is primarily dedicated to profiling temperature from the surface up to ˜60 km and to monitor aerosol abundance in nadir. TIRVIM also has a limb and solar occultation capability. The technical concept of the instrument, its accommodation on the spacecraft, the optical designs as well as some of the calibrations, and the expected performances for its three channels are described.

An optimization of the FPGA trigger based on the artificial neural network for a detection of neutrino-origin showers

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

Szadkowski, Zbigniew; Glas, Dariusz; Pytel, Krzysztof

Observations of ultra-high energy neutrinos became a priority in experimental astro-particle physics. Up to now, the Pierre Auger Observatory did not find any candidate on a neutrino event. This imposes competitive limits to the diffuse flux of ultra-high energy neutrinos in the EeV range and above. A very low rate of events potentially generated by neutrinos is a significant challenge for a detection technique and requires both sophisticated algorithms and high-resolution hardware. A trigger based on a artificial neural network was implemented into the Cyclone{sup R} V E FPGA 5CEFA9F31I7. The prototype Front-End boards for Auger-Beyond-2015 with Cyclone{sup R} Vmore » E can test the neural network algorithm in real pampas conditions in 2015. Showers for muon and tau neutrino initiating particles on various altitudes, angles and energies were simulated in CORSICA and Offline platforms giving pattern of ADC traces in Auger water Cherenkov detectors. The 3-layer 12-10-1 neural network was taught in MATLAB by simulated ADC traces according the Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm. Results show that a probability of a ADC traces generation is very low due to a small neutrino cross-section. Nevertheless, ADC traces, if occur, for 1-10 EeV showers are relatively short and can be analyzed by 16-point input algorithm. For 100 EeV range traces are much longer, but with significantly higher amplitudes, which can be detected by standard threshold algorithms. We optimized the coefficients from MATLAB to get a maximal range of potentially registered events and for fixed-point FPGA processing to minimize calculation errors. Currently used Front-End boards based on no-more produced ACEXR PLDs and obsolete Cyclone{sup R} FPGAs allow an implementation of relatively simple threshold algorithms for triggers. New sophisticated trigger implemented in Cyclone{sup R} V E FPGAs with large amount of DSP blocks, embedded memory running with 120 - 160 MHz sampling may support to discover neutrino events in the Pierre Auger Observatory. (authors)« less

Fluorescence tomography using synchrotron radiation at the NSLS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boisseau, P.; Grodzins, L.

1987-03-01

Fluorescence tomography utilizing focussed, tunable, monoenergetic X-rays from synchrotron light sources hold the promise of a non-invasive analytic tool for studying trace elements in specimens, particularly biological, at spatial resolutions of the order of micrometers. This note reports an early test at the National Synchrotron Light Source at Brookhaven National Laboratories in which fluorescence tomographic scans were successfully made of trace elements of iron and titanium in NBS standard glass and in a bee.

High-resolution spectral analysis of ammonia near 6.2 μm using a cw EC-QCL coupled with cavity ring-down spectroscopy.

PubMed

Maithani, Sanchi; Mandal, Santanu; Maity, Abhijit; Pal, Mithun; Pradhan, Manik

2018-04-30

We report on the development of a mid-infrared cavity ring-down spectrometer (CRDS) coupled with a continuous wave (cw) external cavity quantum cascade laser (EC-QCL), operating between 6.0 μm and 6.3 μm, for high-resolution spectroscopic studies of ammonia (NH3) which served as a bench-mark molecule in this spectral region. We characterized the EC-QCL based CRDS system in detail and achieved a noise-equivalent absorption (NEA) coefficient of 2.11 × 10-9 cm-1 Hz-1/2 for a 100 Hz data acquisition rate. We thereafter exploited the system for high-resolution spectroscopic analysis of interference-free 10 transition lines of the ν4 fundamental vibrational band of NH3 centred at ∼6.2 μm. We probed the strongest interference-free absorption line RQ(4,3) of ν4, centred at 1613.370 cm-1 for highly-sensitive trace detection of NH3 and subsequently achieved a minimum detection sensitivity (1σ) of 2.78 × 109 molecules per cm3 which translated into the detection limit of 740 parts-per-trillion by volume (pptv/10-12) at a pressure of 115 Torr for an integration time of ∼167 seconds. To demonstrate the efficacy of the present system in real-life applications, we finally measured the mixing ratios of NH3 present in ambient air and human exhaled breath with high sensitivity and molecular specificity.

Status of the Geostationary Spectrograph (GeoSpec) for Earth and Atmospheric Science Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Janz, Scott; Hilsenrath, Ernest; Mount, G.; Brune, W.; Heath, D.

2004-01-01

GeoSpec will support future satellite mission concepts in the Atmospheric Sciences and in Land and Ocean Sciences by providing time-resolved measurements of both chemically linked atmospheric trace gas concentrations of important molecules such as O3, NO2, CH2O and SO2 and at the same time coastal and ocean pollution events, tidal effects, and the origin and evolution of aerosol plumes. The instrument design concept in development is a dual spectrograph covering the WMS wavelength region of 310-500 nm and the VIS/NIR wavelength region of 480-900 nm coupled to all reflective telescope and high sensitivity PIN/CMOS area detector. The goal of the project is to demonstrate a system capable of making moderate spatial resolution (750 meters at nadir) hyperspectral measurements (0.6 to 1.2 nm resolution) from a geostationary orbit. This would enable studies of time-varying pollution and coastal change processes with a temporal resolution of 5 minutes on a regional scale to 1 hour on a continental scale. Other spatial resolutions can be supported by varying the focal length of the input telescope. Scientific rationale and instrument design and status will be presented.

Large-area super-resolution optical imaging by using core-shell microfibers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Cheng-Yang; Lo, Wei-Chieh

2017-09-01

We first numerically and experimentally report large-area super-resolution optical imaging achieved by using core-shell microfibers. The particular spatial electromagnetic waves for different core-shell microfibers are studied by using finite-difference time-domain and ray tracing calculations. The focusing properties of photonic nanojets are evaluated in terms of intensity profile and full width at half-maximum along propagation and transversal directions. In experiment, the general optical fiber is chemically etched down to 6 μm diameter and coated with different metallic thin films by using glancing angle deposition. The direct imaging of photonic nanojets for different core-shell microfibers is performed with a scanning optical microscope system. We show that the intensity distribution of a photonic nanojet is highly related to the metallic shell due to the surface plasmon polaritons. Furthermore, large-area super-resolution optical imaging is performed by using different core-shell microfibers placed over the nano-scale grating with 150 nm line width. The core-shell microfiber-assisted imaging is achieved with super-resolution and hundreds of times the field-of-view in contrast to microspheres. The possible applications of these core-shell optical microfibers include real-time large-area micro-fluidics and nano-structure inspections.

Sea level history in 3D: Data acquisition and processing for an ultra-high resolution MCS survey across IODP Expedition 313 drillsite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nedimovic, M. R.; Mountain, G. S.; Austin, J. A., Jr.; Fulthorpe, C.; Aali, M.; Baldwin, K.; Bhatnagar, T.; Johnson, C.; Küçük, H. M.; Newton, A.; Stanley, J.

2015-12-01

In June-July 2015, we acquired the first 3D/2D hybrid (short/long streamer) multichannel seismic (MCS) reflection dataset. These data were collected simultaneously across IODP Exp. 313 drillsites, off New Jersey, using R/V Langsethand cover ~95% of the planned 12x50 km box. Despite the large survey area, the lateral and vertical resolution for the 3D dataset is almost a magnitude of order higher than for data gathered for standard petroleum exploration. Such high-resolution was made possible by collection of common midpoint (CMP) lines whose combined length is ~3 times the Earth's circumference (~120,000 profile km) and a source rich in high-frequencies. We present details on the data acquisition, ongoing data analysis, and preliminary results. The science driving this project is presented by Mountain et al. The 3D component of this innovative survey used an athwartship cross cable, extended laterally by 2 barovanes roughly 357.5 m apart and trailed by 24 50-m P-Cables spaced ~12.5 m with near-trace offset of 53 m. Each P-Cable had 8 single hydrophone groups spaced at 6.25 m for a total of 192 channels. Record length was 4 s and sample rate 0.5 ms, with no low cut and an 824 Hz high cut filter. We ran 77 sail lines spaced ~150 m. Receiver locations were determined using 2 GPS receivers mounted on floats and 2 compasses and depth sensors per streamer. Streamer depths varied from 2.1 to 3.7 m. The 2D component used a single 3 km streamer, with 240 9-hydrophone groups spaced at 12.5 m, towed astern with near-trace offset of 229 m. The record length was 4 s and sample rate 0.5 ms, with low cut filter at 2 Hz and high cut at 412 Hz. Receiver locations were recorded using GPS at the head float and tail buoy, combined with 12 bird compasses spaced ~300 m. Nominal streamer depth was 4.5 m. The source for both systems was a 700 in3 linear array of 4 Bolt air guns suspended at 4.5 m towing depth, 271.5 m behind the ship's stern. Shot spacing was 12.5 m. Data analysis to prestack time migration is being carried out by Absolute Imaging, a commercial company. The shipboard QC analysis and brute stacks indicate that the final product will be superb. Key advantages of the hybrid 3D/2D dataset are: (1) Velocity control from the 2D long-streamer data combined with the ultra-high resolution of the P-Cable 3D dataset; (2) Opportunity for prestack and poststack attribute analysis.

EUV Solar Instrument Development at the Marshall Space Flight Center

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kobayashi, K.; Cirtain, J. W.; Davis, J. M.; West, E.; Golub, L.; Korreck, K. E.; Tsuneta, S.; Bando, T.

2009-12-01

The three sounding rocket instrument programs currently underway at the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center represent major advances in solar observations, made possible by improvements in EUV optics and detector technology. The Solar Ultraviolet Magnetograph Instrument (SUMI) is an EUV spectropolarimeter designed to measure the Zeeman splitting of two chromospheric EUV lines, the 280 nm MgII and 155 nm CIV lines. SUMI directly observes the magnetic field in the low-beta region where most energetic phenomena are though to originate. In conjunction with visible-light magnetographs, this observation allows us to track the evolution of the magnetic field as it evolves from the photosphere to the upper chromosphere. SUMI incorporates a normal incidence Cassegrain telescope, a MgF2 double-Wollaston polarizing beam splitter and two TVLS (toroidal varied line space) gratings, and is capable of observing two orthogonal polarizations in two wavelength bands simultaneously. SUMI has been fully assembled and tested, and currently scheduled for launch in summer of 2010. The High-resolution Coronal Imager is a normal-incidence EUV imaging telescope designed to achieve 0.2 arcsecond resolution, with a pixel size of 0.1 arcsecond. This is a factor of 25 improvement in aerial resolution over the Transition Region And Coronal Explorer (TRACE). Images obtained by TRACE indicate presence of unresolved structures; higher resolution images will reveal the scale and topology of structures that make up the corona. The telescope mirrors are currently being fabricated, and the instrument has been funded for flight. In addition, a Lyman alpha spectropolarimeter is under development in collaboration with the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan. This aims to detect the linear polarization in the chromosphere caused by the Hanle effect. Horizontal magnetic fields in the chromosphere are expected to be detectable as polarization near disk center, and off-limb observations will reveal the magnetic field structure of filaments and prominences. Laboratory tests of candidate optical components are currently underway.

Tracking the evolution of a giant magmatic system from assembly to supereruption

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wotzlaw, J. F.; Schaltegger, U.; Frick, D. A.; Dungan, M. A.; Gerdes, A.; Günther, D.

2012-12-01

The chemical and physical characteristics of large magma bodies prior to eruption are closely related consequences of the balance between the rate of magma influx and the rate of cooling. The products of caldera-related silicic supereruptions, and less voluminous associated precursor and post-caldera activity preserve information about the thermal and chemical states of the system at the moment of evacuation of the magma chamber. Numerous studies of the Oligocene Fish Canyon Tuff (5000 km3; Colorado, USA) and related eruptive products of the La Garita caldera have addressed the origin and evolution of large-volume crystal-rich magmas. We use the presence of zircon in all eruptive products of the Fish Canyon magmatic system to gain a high-resolution geochronologic control on the thermal evolution of the magmatic system by using the trace element composition of U-Pb dated zircons as a proxy for magma crystallinity. New analytical protocols permit to obtain age, chemical and isotopic information from the exact same volume of single zircons (Schoene et al., 2010, GCA) allowing us to trace magma crystallinity as a function of time. Zircon U-Pb dates record ~400,000 years of crystallization. Variations in trace element composition in U-Pb dated zircons can be attributed to trace element fractionation imposed by co-crystallization of titanite. Due to the relatively high modal abundance of titanite in Fish Canyon magma and the extreme compatibility of the rare earth elements (REE) in this phase, titanite is the major control on many trace element concentrations and ratios (e.g. Yb/Dy) in coexisting zircons via varying degrees of depletion of these elements in the host melt. Modeling of compositional variations as a result of fractional crystallization suggests that the range of zircon compositions can be explained by 50-70% crystallization of a fractionating assemblage containing 0.4-0.8 vol.% titanite. The period of cooling centered around 28.4 Ma and is marked by an apparent crystallinity that is ~30% higher than at the time of eruption, implying that the Fish Canyon magma was perilously close to complete solidification, hence 'plutonic death', prior to late reheating. We estimate the duration of the reheating event from the age difference of the chemically most evolved (highest Yb/Dy) and the youngest dated zircon to be ~170 ka. This duration for reactivation of the near solidus crystal mush is in excellent agreement with estimates derived from numerical modeling of remelting by upward percolation of a hot gas-phase derived from underplated mafic magma ('gas sparging'; Bachmann and Bergantz, 2003, Geology). This investigation, which is the first in which high resolution U-Pb zircon geochronology has been coupled with geochemical modeling of systematic compositional variations in an accessory mineral, ties together many of the threads which have been developed independently during previous studies of the Fish Canyon magmatic system and places related petrogenetic processes into an absolute time frame.

A narrow open tubular column for high efficiency liquid chromatographic separation.

PubMed

Chen, Huang; Yang, Yu; Qiao, Zhenzhen; Xiang, Piliang; Ren, Jiangtao; Meng, Yunzhu; Zhang, Kaiqi; Juan Lu, Joann; Liu, Shaorong

2018-04-30

We report a great feature of open tubular liquid chromatography when it is run using an extremely narrow (e.g., 2 μm inner diameter) open tubular column: more than 10 million plates per meter can be achieved in less than 10 min and under an elution pressure of ca. 20 bar. The column is coated with octadecylsilane and both isocratic and gradient separations are performed. We reveal a focusing effect that may be used to interpret the efficiency enhancement. We also demonstrate the feasibility of using this technique for separating complex peptide samples. This high-resolution and fast separation technique is promising and can lead to a powerful tool for trace sample analysis.

Ray tracing: Experience at SRC

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

Severson, M.

1996-09-01

SHADOW [B. Lai and F. Cerrina, Nucl. Instrum. Methods A {bold 246}, 337 (1986)] is the primary ray-tracing program used at SRC. Ray tracing provides a tremendous amount of information regarding beamline layout, mirror sizes, resolution, alignment tolerances, and beam size at various locations. It also provides a way to check the beamline design for errors. Two recent designs have been ray traced extensively: an undulator-based, 4-meter, normal-incidence monochromator (NIM) [R. Reininger, M.C. Severson, R.W.C. Hansen, W.R. Winter, M.A. Green, and W.S. Trzeciak, Rev. Sci. Instrum. {bold 66}, 2194 (1995)] and an undulator-based, plane-grating monochromator (PGM) [R. Reininger, S.L. Crossley,more » M.A. Lagergren, M.C. Severson, and R.W.C. Hansen, Nucl. Instrum. Methods A {bold 347}, 304 (1994)]. {copyright} {ital 1996 American Institute of Physics.}« less

Holocene climate variability in Texas, USA: An integration of existing paleoclimate data and modeling with a new, high-resolution speleothem record

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wong, Corinne I.; Banner, Jay L.; Musgrove, MaryLynn

2015-11-01

Delineating the climate processes governing precipitation variability in drought-prone Texas is critical for predicting and mitigating climate change effects, and requires the reconstruction of past climate beyond the instrumental record. We synthesize existing paleoclimate proxy data and climate simulations to provide an overview of climate variability in Texas during the Holocene. Conditions became progressively warmer and drier transitioning from the early to mid Holocene, culminating between 7 and 3 ka (thousand years ago), and were more variable during the late Holocene. The timing and relative magnitude of Holocene climate variability, however, is poorly constrained owing to considerable variability among the different records. To help address this, we present a new speleothem (NBJ) reconstruction from a central Texas cave that comprises the highest resolution proxy record to date, spanning the mid to late Holocene. NBJ trace-element concentrations indicate variable moisture conditions with no clear temporal trend. There is a decoupling between NBJ growth rate, trace-element concentrations, and δ18O values, which indicate that (i) the often direct relation between speleothem growth rate and moisture availability is likely complicated by changes in the overlying ecosystem that affect subsurface CO2 production, and (ii) speleothem δ18O variations likely reflect changes in moisture source (i.e., proportion of Pacific-vs. Gulf of Mexico-derived moisture) that appear not to be linked to moisture amount.

Correcting for trace gas absorption when retrieving aerosol optical depth from satellite observations of reflected shortwave radiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Patadia, Falguni; Levy, Robert C.; Mattoo, Shana

2018-06-01

Retrieving aerosol optical depth (AOD) from top-of-atmosphere (TOA) satellite-measured radiance requires separating the aerosol signal from the total observed signal. Total TOA radiance includes signal from the underlying surface and from atmospheric constituents such as aerosols, clouds and gases. Multispectral retrieval algorithms, such as the dark-target (DT) algorithm that operates upon the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS, on board Terra and Aqua satellites) and Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS, on board Suomi-NPP) sensors, use wavelength bands in window regions. However, while small, the gas absorptions in these bands are non-negligible and require correction. In this paper, we use the High-resolution TRANsmission (HITRAN) database and Line-By-Line Radiative Transfer Model (LBLRTM) to derive consistent gas corrections for both MODIS and VIIRS wavelength bands. Absorptions from H2O, CO2 and O3 are considered, as well as other trace gases. Even though MODIS and VIIRS bands are similar, they are different enough that applying MODIS-specific gas corrections to VIIRS observations results in an underestimate of global mean AOD (by 0.01), but with much larger regional AOD biases of up to 0.07. As recent studies have been attempting to create a long-term data record by joining multiple satellite data sets, including MODIS and VIIRS, the consistency of gas correction has become even more crucial.

A high-resolution atlas of the infrared spectrum of the sun and the earth atmosphere from space. A compilation of ATMOS spectra of the region from 650 to 4800 cm-1 (2.3 to 16 microns). Volume 2: Stratosphere and mesosphere, 650 to 3350 cm-1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Farmer, Crofton B.; Norton, Robert H.

1989-01-01

During the period April 29 to May 2, 1985, the Atmospheric Trace Molecule Spectroscopy (ATMOS) experiment was operated for the first time, as part of the Spacelab-3 payload of the shuttle Challenger. The principal purpose of this experiment was to study the distributions of the atmosphere's minor and trace molecular constituents. The instrument, a modified Michelson interferometer covering the frequency range from 600 to 5000/cm-1 at a spectral resolution of 0.01/cm-1, recorded infrared absorption spectra of the sun and of the earth's atmosphere at times close to entry into and exit from occultation by the earth's limb. Spectra were obtained that are free from absorptions due to constituents of the atmosphere (i.e., they are pure solar spectra), as well as spectra of the atmosphere itself, covering line-of-sight tangent altitudes that span the range from the lower thermosphere to the bottom of the troposphere. This atlas presents a compilation of these spectra arranged in a hardcopy format suitable for quick-look reference purposes. Volume 2 covers the stratosphere and mesosphere (i.e., tangent altitudes from 20 to 80 km) for frequencies from 650 to 3350/cm-1.

Locating trace plutonium in contaminated soil using micro-XRF imaging

DOE PAGES

Worley, Christopher G.; Spencer, Khalil J.; Boukhalfa, Hakim; ...

2014-06-01

Micro-X-ray fluorescence (MXRF) was used to locate minute quantities of plutonium in contaminated soil. Because the specimen had previously been prepared for analysis by scanning electron microscopy, it was coated with gold to eliminate electron beam charging. However, this significantly hindered efforts to detect plutonium by MXRF. The gold L peak series present in all spectra increased background counts. Plutonium signal attenuation by the gold coating and severe peak overlap from potassium in the soil prevented detection of trace plutonium using the Pu Mα peak. However, the 14.3 keV Pu Lα peak sensitivity was not optimal due to poor transmissionmore » efficiency through the source polycapillary optic, and the instrument silicon drift detector sensitivity quickly declines for peaks with energies above ~10 keV. Instrumental parameters were optimized (eg. using appropriate source filters) in order to detect plutonium. An X-ray beam aperture was initially used to image a majority of the specimen with low spatial resolution. A small region that appeared to contain plutonium was then imaged at high spatial resolution using a polycapillary optic. Small areas containing plutonium were observed on a soil particle, and iron was co-located with the plutonium. Zinc and titanium also appeared to be correlated with the plutonium, and these elemental correlations provided useful plutonium chemical state information that helped to better understand its environmental transport properties.« less

Visible rodent brain-wide networks at single-neuron resolution

PubMed Central

Yuan, Jing; Gong, Hui; Li, Anan; Li, Xiangning; Chen, Shangbin; Zeng, Shaoqun; Luo, Qingming

2015-01-01

There are some unsolvable fundamental questions, such as cell type classification, neural circuit tracing and neurovascular coupling, though great progresses are being made in neuroscience. Because of the structural features of neurons and neural circuits, the solution of these questions needs us to break through the current technology of neuroanatomy for acquiring the exactly fine morphology of neuron and vessels and tracing long-distant circuit at axonal resolution in the whole brain of mammals. Combined with fast-developing labeling techniques, efficient whole-brain optical imaging technology emerging at the right moment presents a huge potential in the structure and function research of specific-function neuron and neural circuit. In this review, we summarize brain-wide optical tomography techniques, review the progress on visible brain neuronal/vascular networks benefit from these novel techniques, and prospect the future technical development. PMID:26074784

Experimental station for ultrafast extreme ultraviolet spectroscopy for non-equilibrium dynamics in warm dense matter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Jong-won; Geng, Xiaotao; Jung, Jae Hyung; Cho, Min Sang; Yang, Seong Hyeok; Jo, Jawon; Lee, Chang-lyoul; Cho, Byoung Ick; Kim, Dong-Eon

2018-07-01

Recent interest in highly excited matter generated by intense femtosecond laser pulses has led to experimental methods that directly investigate ultrafast non-equilibrium electronic and structural dynamics. We present a tabletop experimental station for the extreme ultraviolet (EUV) spectroscopy used to trace L-edge dynamics in warm dense aluminum with a temporal resolution of a hundred femtoseconds. The system consists of the EUV probe generation part via a high-order harmonic generation process of femtosecond laser pulses with atomic clusters, a beamline with high-throughput optics and a sample-refreshment system of nano-foils utilizing the full repetition rate of the probe, and a flat-field EUV spectrograph. With the accumulation of an order of a hundred shots, a clear observation of the change in the aluminum L-shell absorption was achieved with a temporal resolution of 90 fs in a 600-fs window. The signature of a non-equilibrium electron distribution over a 10-eV range and its evolution to a 1-eV Fermi distribution are observed. This demonstrates the capability of this apparatus to capture the non-equilibrium electron-hole dynamics in highly excited warm dense matter conditions.

Imaging the Lowermost Mantle (D'') Beneath the Pacific Ocean with SKKS coda waves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Z.; Shang, X.; van der Hilst, R. D.

2013-12-01

Previous studies indicate considerable complexity in the lowermost mantle beneath the Pacific Ocean on a variety of spatial scales, such as large low-shear-velocity province (LLSVP), intermittent D'' discontinuities and isolated ultra-low-velocity zones (ULVZs). However, the resolution of travel time tomography is typically greater than 1000 km in deep mantle, and only a few regions can satisfy contingent sampling requirement for waveform modeling. On the other hand, generalized Radon transform (GRT) has a higher resolution (~400 km horizontally and ~30 km vertically) and can relax the restriction of source-receiver configuration. It has been successfully applied to central America and east Asia, which are speculated as the graveyard of subducted slabs. In this study we apply GRT to obtain a large-scale high-resolution image beneath (almost the whole) Pacific Ocean near the core-mantle boundary (CMB). More than 400,000 traces from ~8,000 events (5.8

Quantification of Kryptofix 2.2.2 in [18F]fluorine-labelled radiopharmaceuticals by rapid-resolution liquid chromatography.

PubMed

Lao, Yexing; Yang, Cuiping; Zou, Wei; Gan, Manquan; Chen, Ping; Su, Weiwei

2012-05-01

The cryptand Kryptofix 2.2.2 is used extensively as a phase-transfer reagent in the preparation of [18F]fluoride-labelled radiopharmaceuticals. However, it has considerable acute toxicity. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a method for rapid (within 1 min), specific and sensitive quantification of Kryptofix 2.2.2 at trace levels. Chromatographic separations were carried out by rapid-resolution liquid chromatography (Agilent ZORBAX SB-C18 rapid-resolution column, 2.1 × 30 mm, 3.5 μm). Tandem mass spectra were acquired using a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer equipped with an electrospray ionization interface. Quantitative mass spectrometric analysis was conducted in positive ion mode and multiple reaction monitoring mode for the m/z 377.3 → 114.1 transition for Kryptofix 2.2.2. The external standard method was used for quantification. The method met the precision and efficiency requirements for PET radiopharmaceuticals, providing satisfactory results for specificity, matrix effect, stability, linearity (0.5-100 ng/ml, r(2)=0.9975), precision (coefficient of variation < 5%), accuracy (relative error < ± 3%), sensitivity (lower limit of quantification=0.5 ng) and detection time (<1 min). Fluorodeoxyglucose (n=6) was analysed, and the Kryptofix 2.2.2 content was found to be well below the maximum permissible levels approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. The developed method has a short analysis time (<1 min) and high sensitivity (lower limit of quantification=0.5 ng/ml) and can be successfully applied to rapid quantification of Kryptofix 2.2.2 at trace levels in fluorodeoxyglucose. This method could also be applied to other [18F]fluorine-labelled radiopharmaceuticals that use Kryptofix 2.2.2 as a phase-transfer reagent.

Concentrations and Loads of Organic Compounds and Trace Elements in Tributaries to Newark and Raritan Bays, New Jersey

USGS Publications Warehouse

Wilson, Timothy P.; Bonin, Jennifer L.

2007-01-01

A study was undertaken to determine the concentrations and loads of sediment and chemicals delivered to Newark and Raritan Bays by five major tributaries: the Raritan, Passaic, Rahway, Elizabeth, and Hackensack Rivers. This study was initiated by the State of New Jersey as Study I-C of the New Jersey Toxics Reduction Workplan for the New York-New Jersey Harbor, working under the NY-NJ Harbor Estuary Program (HEP) Contaminant Assessment and Reduction Program (CARP). The CARP is a comprehensive effort to evaluate the levels and sources of toxic contaminants to the tributaries and estuarine areas of the NY-NJ Harbor, including Newark and Raritan Bays. The Raritan and Passaic Rivers are large rivers (mean daily discharges of 1,189 and 1,132 cubic feet per second (ft3/s), respectively), that drain large, mixed rural/urban basins. The Elizabeth and Rahway Rivers are small rivers (mean daily discharges of 25.9 and 49.1 ft3/s, respectively) that drain small, highly urbanized and industrialized basins. The Hackensack River drains a small, mixed rural/urban basin, and its flow is highly controlled by an upstream reservoir (mean daily discharge of 90.4 ft3/s). These rivers flow into urbanized estuaries and ultimately, to the Atlantic Ocean. Each of these tributaries were sampled during two to four storm events, and twice each during low-flow discharge conditions. Samples were collected using automated equipment installed at stations adjacent to U.S. Geological Survey streamflow-gaging stations near the heads-of-tide of these rivers. Large-volume (greater than 50 liters of water and a target of 1 gram of sediment), flow-weighted composite samples were collected for chemical analysis using filtration to collect suspended particulates and exchange resin (XAD-2) to sequester dissolved contaminants. Composite whole-water samples were collected for dissolved polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and for trace element analysis. Additional discrete grab samples were collected throughout each event for trace-element analysis, and multiple samples were collected for suspended sediment (SS), particulate carbon (POC), and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) analysis. The suspended sediment and exchange resin were analyzed for 114 polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs, by US EPA method 1668A, modified), seven 2,3,7,8-substituted chlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (CDD) and 10 dibenzo-p-difurans (CDF) (by US EPA method 1613), 24 PAHs (by low-resolution isotope dilution/mass-spectral methods), 27 organo-chlorine pesticides (OCPs) (by high resolution isotope dilution/mass-spectral methods), and the trace elements mercury (Hg), methyl-mercury (MeHg), lead (Pb), and cadmium (Cd). Isotope dilution methods using gas chromatography and high-and low-resolution mass spectral (GC/MS) detection were used to accurately identify and quantify organic compounds in the sediment and water phases. Trace elements were measured using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry and cold-vapor atomic fluorescence spectrometry methods. The loads of sediment, carbon, and chemicals were calculated for each storm and low-flow event sampled. Because only a few storm events were sampled, yearly loads of sediment were calculated from rating curves developed using historical SS and POC data. The average annual loads of sediment and carbon were calculated for the period 1975-2000, along with the loads for the selected water years being modeled as part of the New York New Jersey Harbor Estuary Program CARP. Comparison of loads calculated using the rating curve method to loads measured during the sampled storm events indicated that the rating curve method likely underpredicts annual loads. Average annual loads of suspended sediment in the tributaries were estimated to be 395,000 kilograms per year (kg/yr) in the Hackensack River, 417,000 kg/yr in the Elizabeth River, 882,000 kg/yr in the Rahway River, 22,700,000 kg/yr in the Passaic River, and 93,100,000 kg/yr in the Raritan River. Averag

Reference Values of 14 Serum Trace Elements for Pregnant Chinese Women: A Cross-Sectional Study in the China Nutrition and Health Survey 2010-2012.

PubMed

Liu, Xiaobing; Zhang, Yu; Piao, Jianhua; Mao, Deqian; Li, Yajie; Li, Weidong; Yang, Lichen; Yang, Xiaoguang

2017-03-21

The development of reference values of trace elements is recognized as a fundamental prerequisite for the assessment of trace element nutritional status and health risks. In this study, a total of 1400 pregnant women aged 27.0 ± 4.5 years were randomly selected from the China Nutrition and Health Survey 2010-2012 (CNHS 2010-2012). The concentrations of 14 serum trace elements were determined by high-resolution inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Reference values were calculated covering the central 95% reference intervals (P2.5-P97.5) after excluding outliers by Dixon's test. The overall reference values of serum trace elements were 131.5 (55.8-265.0 μg/dL for iron (Fe), 195.5 (107.0-362.4) μg/dL for copper (Cu), 74.0 (51.8-111.3) μg/dL for zinc (Zn), 22.3 (14.0-62.0) μg/dL for rubidium (Rb), 72.2 (39.9-111.6) μg/L for selenium (Se), 45.9 (23.8-104.3) μg/L for strontium (Sr), 1.8 (1.2-3.6) μg/L for molybdenum (Mo), 2.4 (1.2-8.4) μg/L for manganese (Mn), 1.9 (0.6-9.0) ng/L for lead (Pb), 1.1 (0.3-5.6) ng/L for arsenic (As), 835.6 (219.8-4287.7) ng/L for chromium (Cr), 337.9 (57.0-1130.0) ng/L for cobalt (Co), 193.2 (23.6-2323.1) ng/L for vanadium (V), and 133.7 (72.1-595.1) ng/L for cadmium (Cd). Furthermore, some significant differences in serum trace element reference values were observed between different groupings of age intervals, residences, anthropometric status, and duration of pregnancy. We found that serum Fe, Zn, and Se concentrations significantly decreased, whereas serum Cu, Sr, and Co concentrations elevated progressively compared with reference values of 14 serum trace elements in pregnant Chinese women. The reference values of serum trace elements established could play a key role in the following nutritional status and health risk assessment.

Optimizing modelling in iterative image reconstruction for preclinical pinhole PET

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goorden, Marlies C.; van Roosmalen, Jarno; van der Have, Frans; Beekman, Freek J.

2016-05-01

The recently developed versatile emission computed tomography (VECTor) technology enables high-energy SPECT and simultaneous SPECT and PET of small animals at sub-mm resolutions. VECTor uses dedicated clustered pinhole collimators mounted in a scanner with three stationary large-area NaI(Tl) gamma detectors. Here, we develop and validate dedicated image reconstruction methods that compensate for image degradation by incorporating accurate models for the transport of high-energy annihilation gamma photons. Ray tracing software was used to calculate photon transport through the collimator structures and into the gamma detector. Input to this code are several geometric parameters estimated from system calibration with a scanning 99mTc point source. Effects on reconstructed images of (i) modelling variable depth-of-interaction (DOI) in the detector, (ii) incorporating photon paths that go through multiple pinholes (‘multiple-pinhole paths’ (MPP)), and (iii) including various amounts of point spread function (PSF) tail were evaluated. Imaging 18F in resolution and uniformity phantoms showed that including large parts of PSFs is essential to obtain good contrast-noise characteristics and that DOI modelling is highly effective in removing deformations of small structures, together leading to 0.75 mm resolution PET images of a hot-rod Derenzo phantom. Moreover, MPP modelling reduced the level of background noise. These improvements were also clearly visible in mouse images. Performance of VECTor can thus be significantly improved by accurately modelling annihilation gamma photon transport.

Iodine and freeze-drying enhanced high-resolution MicroCT imaging for reconstructing 3D intraneural topography of human peripheral nerve fascicles.

PubMed

Yan, Liwei; Guo, Yongze; Qi, Jian; Zhu, Qingtang; Gu, Liqiang; Zheng, Canbin; Lin, Tao; Lu, Yutong; Zeng, Zitao; Yu, Sha; Zhu, Shuang; Zhou, Xiang; Zhang, Xi; Du, Yunfei; Yao, Zhi; Lu, Yao; Liu, Xiaolin

2017-08-01

The precise annotation and accurate identification of the topography of fascicles to the end organs are prerequisites for studying human peripheral nerves. In this study, we present a feasible imaging method that acquires 3D high-resolution (HR) topography of peripheral nerve fascicles using an iodine and freeze-drying (IFD) micro-computed tomography (microCT) method to greatly increase the contrast of fascicle images. The enhanced microCT imaging method can facilitate the reconstruction of high-contrast HR fascicle images, fascicle segmentation and extraction, feature analysis, and the tracing of fascicle topography to end organs, which define fascicle functions. The complex intraneural aggregation and distribution of fascicles is typically assessed using histological techniques or MR imaging to acquire coarse axial three-dimensional (3D) maps. However, the disadvantages of histological techniques (static, axial manual registration, and data instability) and MR imaging (low-resolution) limit these applications in reconstructing the topography of nerve fascicles. Thus, enhanced microCT is a new technique for acquiring 3D intraneural topography of the human peripheral nerve fascicles both to improve our understanding of neurobiological principles and to guide accurate repair in the clinic. Additionally, 3D microstructure data can be used as a biofabrication model, which in turn can be used to fabricate scaffolds to repair long nerve gaps. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Detecting Blind Fault with Fractal and Roughness Factors from High Resolution LiDAR DEM at Taiwan

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cheng, Y. S.; Yu, T. T.

2014-12-01

There is no obvious fault scarp associated with blind fault. The traditional method of mapping this unrevealed geological structure is the cluster of seismicity. Neither the seismic event nor the completeness of cluster could be captured by network to chart the location of the entire possible active blind fault within short period of time. High resolution DEM gathered by LiDAR could denote actual terrain information despite the existence of plantation. 1-meter interval DEM of mountain region at Taiwan is utilized by fractal, entropy and roughness calculating with MATLAB code. By jointing these handing, the regions of non-sediment deposit are charted automatically. Possible blind fault associated with Chia-Sen earthquake at southern Taiwan is served as testing ground. GIS layer help in removing the difference from various geological formation, then multi-resolution fractal index is computed around the target region. The type of fault movement controls distribution of fractal index number. The scale of blind fault governs degree of change in fractal index. Landslide induced by rainfall and/or earthquake possesses larger degree of geomorphology alteration than blind fault; special treatment in removing these phenomena is required. Highly weathered condition at Taiwan should erase the possible trace remained upon DEM from the ruptured of blind fault while reoccurrence interval is higher than hundreds of years. This is one of the obstacle in finding possible blind fault at Taiwan.

Ultrastructurally-smooth thick partitioning and volume stitching for larger-scale connectomics

PubMed Central

Hayworth, Kenneth J.; Xu, C. Shan; Lu, Zhiyuan; Knott, Graham W.; Fetter, Richard D.; Tapia, Juan Carlos; Lichtman, Jeff W.; Hess, Harald F.

2015-01-01

FIB-SEM has become an essential tool for studying neural tissue at resolutions below 10×10×10 nm, producing datasets superior for automatic connectome tracing. We present a technical advance, ultrathick sectioning, which reliably subdivides embedded tissue samples into chunks (20 µm thick) optimally sized and mounted for efficient, parallel FIB-SEM imaging. These chunks are imaged separately and then ‘volume stitched’ back together, producing a final 3D dataset suitable for connectome tracing. PMID:25686390

As Far as Opportunity's Eye Can See

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2004-01-01

[figure removed for brevity, see original site] Click on the image for As Far as Opportunity's Eye Can See (QTVR)

This expansive view of the martian real estate surrounding the Mars Exploration Rover Opportunity is the first 360 degree, high-resolution color image taken by the rover's panoramic camera. The airbag marks, or footprints, seen in the soil trace the route by which Opportunity rolled to its final resting spot inside a small crater at Meridiani Planum, Mars. The exposed rock outcropping is a future target for further examination. This image mosaic consists of 225 individual frames.

Measurement of HO2 and other trace gases in the stratosphere using a high resolution far-infrared spectrometer at 28 km

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Traub, Wesley A.; Chance, Kelly V.; Johnson, David G.; Jucks, Kenneth W.; Wofsy, Steven C.

1993-01-01

This report covers the time period 1 January 1993 to 30 June 1993. During this reporting period we had our third Upper Atmosphere Research Satellite (UARS) correlative balloon flight and submitted the results from this flight to the Central Data Handling Facility (CDHF). We made a number of improvements in our data processing software in preparation for a new analysis of our old balloon data sets. Finally, we continue to analyze the data obtained during the second Airborne Arctic Stratospheric Expedition (AASE 2).

SERS analysis of Ag nanostructures produced by ion-beam deposition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Atanasov, P. A.; Nedyalkov, N. N.; Nikov, Ru G.; Grüner, Ch; Rauschenbach, B.; Fukata, N.

2018-03-01

This study deals with the development of a novel technique for formation of advanced Ag nanostructures (NSs) to be applied to high-resolution analyses based on surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). It has direct bearing on human health and food quality, e.g., monitoring small amount or traces of pollutants or undesirable additives. Three types of nanostructured Ag samples were produced using ion-beam deposition at glancing angle (GLAD) on quartz. All fabricated structures were covered with BI-58 pesticide (dimethoate) or Rhodamine 6G (R6G) for testing their potential for use as substrates for (SERS).

Flux Analysis of Free Amino Sugars and Amino Acids in Soils by Isotope Tracing with a Novel Liquid Chromatography/High Resolution Mass Spectrometry Platform.

PubMed

Hu, Yuntao; Zheng, Qing; Wanek, Wolfgang

2017-09-05

Soil fluxomics analysis can provide pivotal information for understanding soil biochemical pathways and their regulation, but direct measurement methods are rare. Here, we describe an approach to measure soil extracellular metabolite (amino sugar and amino acid) concentrations and fluxes based on a 15 N isotope pool dilution technique via liquid chromatography and high-resolution mass spectrometry. We produced commercially unavailable 15 N and 13 C labeled amino sugars and amino acids by hydrolyzing peptidoglycan isolated from isotopically labeled bacterial biomass and used them as tracers ( 15 N) and internal standards ( 13 C). High-resolution (Orbitrap Exactive) MS with a resolution of 50 000 allowed us to separate different stable isotope labeled analogues across a large range of metabolites. The utilization of 13 C internal standards greatly improved the accuracy and reliability of absolute quantification. We successfully applied this method to two types of soils and quantified the extracellular gross fluxes of 2 amino sugars, 18 amino acids, and 4 amino acid enantiomers. Compared to the influx and efflux rates of most amino acids, similar ones were found for glucosamine, indicating that this amino sugar is released through peptidoglycan and chitin decomposition and serves as an important nitrogen source for soil microorganisms. d-Alanine and d-glutamic acid derived from peptidoglycan decomposition exhibited similar turnover rates as their l-enantiomers. This novel approach offers new strategies to advance our understanding of the production and transformation pathways of soil organic N metabolites, including the unknown contributions of peptidoglycan and chitin decomposition to soil organic N cycling.

Air Quality Science and Regulatory Efforts Require Geostationary Satellite Measurements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pickering, Kenneth E.; Allen, D. J.; Stehr, J. W.

2006-01-01

Air quality scientists and regulatory agencies would benefit from the high spatial and temporal resolution trace gas and aerosol data that could be provided by instruments on a geostationary platform. More detailed time-resolved data from a geostationary platform could be used in tracking regional transport and in evaluating mesoscale air quality model performance in terms of photochemical evolution throughout the day. The diurnal cycle of photochemical pollutants is currently missing from the data provided by the current generation of atmospheric chemistry satellites which provide only one measurement per day. Often peak surface ozone mixing ratios are reached much earlier in the day during major regional pollution episodes than during local episodes due to downward mixing of ozone that had been transported above the boundary layer overnight. The regional air quality models often do not simulate this downward mixing well enough and underestimate surface ozone in regional episodes. Having high time-resolution geostationary data will make it possible to determine the magnitude of this lower-and mid-tropospheric transport that contributes to peak eight-hour average ozone and 24-hour average PM2.5 concentrations. We will show ozone and PM(sub 2.5) episodes from the CMAQ model and suggest ways in which geostationary satellite data would improve air quality forecasting. Current regulatory modeling is typically being performed at 12 km horizontal resolution. State and regional air quality regulators in regions with complex topography and/or land-sea breezes are anxious to move to 4-km or finer resolution simulations. Geostationary data at these or finer resolutions will be useful in evaluating such models.

Annually resolved Holocene record of dust deposition and size distribution from the South Pole

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chesler, A.; Koffman, B. G.; Kreutz, K. J.; Osterberg, E. C.; Winski, D.; Ferris, D. G.; Cole-Dai, J.; Wells, M. L.; Handley, M.

2017-12-01

Ice cores offer insights into past changes in atmospheric composition and circulation at high temporal resolution. Dust particles preserved in ice cores provide information regarding the atmospheric burden of dust and associated trace elements, changes in atmospheric circulation, and variations in the climates of dust-producing regions. Well resolved ice core dust records, therefore, can be used to gain a better understanding of the dynamics affecting ocean overturning circulation, to constrain atmospheric nutrient deposition to ocean ecosystems, and to assess atmospheric albedo variations. Existing Antarctic ice core dust records are generally either low-resolution and long-duration (glacial/interglacial timescale), or high-resolution and short-duration (past 2400 years), but high-resolution and long-duration records are rare. Here we present a continuous high-resolution record of dust deposition, including particle size distribution (PSD) and concentration, from the South Pole Ice (SPICE) Core, the first Holocene dust record from this location. The SPICE core was drilled during 2014-2016, reaching a depth of 1751 m. Cores were melted and analyzed for particles (1.0-12 µm diameter) using a continuous-flow Abakus laser particle sensor at Dartmouth College. The current SPICE Core chronology is based on: 1) visual stratigraphy from 0-10.2 ka and 2) correlations to the IceCube dust log calibration beyond 10.2 ka. Annual layer counts of Mg, dust (1.0 µm and 2.4 µm), Na, and SO4 demonstrate that the dust record is annually resolved through most of the Holocene ( 10.3 ka), allowing us to assess dust/climate relationships at high temporal resolution. We use meteorological and reanalysis data to understand modern drivers of observed variability in particle concentration and size distribution, and compare the new SPICE dust record to available Antarctic dust records including from EPICA Dome C, WAIS Divide, Taylor Dome, Taylor Glacier, Talos Dome, Siple Dome, and EPICA Dronning Maud Land. Interpretations of the SPICE dust record will be used to improve understanding of dust emissions, transport and deposition processes, and dust/climate relationships, through the Holocene.

Testing a high resolution CO2 and CO emission inventory against atmospheric observations in Salt Lake City, Utah for policy applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mendoza, D. L.; Lin, J. C.; Mitchell, L.; Gurney, K. R.; Patarasuk, R.; Mallia, D. V.; Fasoli, B.; Bares, R.; Catharine, D.; O'Keeffe, D.; Song, Y.; Huang, J.; Horel, J.; Crosman, E.; Hoch, S.; Ehleringer, J. R.

2016-12-01

We address the need for robust highly-resolved emissions and trace gas concentration data required for planning purposes and policy development aimed at managing pollutant sources. Adverse health effects resulting from urban pollution exposure are the result of proximity to emission sources and atmospheric mixing, necessitating models with high spatial and temporal resolution. As urban emission sources co-emit carbon dioxide (CO2) and criteria air pollutants (CAPs), efforts to reduce specific pollutants would synergistically reduce others. We present a contemporary (2010-2015) emissions inventory and modeled CO2 and carbon monoxide (CO) concentrations for Salt Lake County, Utah. We compare emissions transported by a dispersion model against stationary measurement data and present a systematic quantification of uncertainties. The emissions inventory for CO2 is based on the Hestia emissions data inventory that resolves emissions at hourly, building and road-link resolutions, as well as on an hourly gridded scale. The emissions were scaled using annual Energy Information Administration (EIA) fuel consumption data. We derived a CO emissions inventory using methods similar to Hestia, downscaling total county emissions from the 2011 Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) National Emissions Inventory (NEI). The gridded CO emissions were compared against the Hestia CO2 gridded data to characterize spatial similarities and differences between them. Correlations were calculated at multiple scales of aggregation. The Stochastic Time-Inverted Lagrangian Trasport (STILT) dispersion model was used to transport emissions and estimate pollutant concentrations at an hourly resolution. Modeled results were compared against stationary measurements in the Salt Lake County area. This comparison highlights spatial locations and hours of high variability and uncertainty. Sensitivity to biological fluxes as well as to specific economic sectors was tested by varying their contributions to modeled concentrations and calibrating their emissions.

The Advanced X-ray Spectroscopy and Imaging Observatory (AXSIO)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

White, Nicholas E.; Bookbinder, Jay; Petre, Robert; Smith, Randall; Ptak, Andrew; Tananbaum, Harvey; Garcia, Michael

2012-01-01

Following recommendations from the 2010 "New Worlds, New Horizons" (NWNH) report, the Advanced X-ray Spectroscopy and Imaging Observatory (AXSIO) concept streamlines the International X-ray Observatory (IXO) mission to concentrate on the science objectives that are enabled by high-resolution spectroscopic capabilities. AXSIO will trace orbits close to the event horizon of black holes, measure black hole spin for tens of supermassive black holes (SMBH), use spectroscopy to characterize outflows and the environment of AGN during their peak activity, observe 5MBH out to redshift z=6, map bulk motions and turbulence in galaxy clusters, find the missing baryons in the cosmic web using background quasars, and observe the process of cosmic feedback where black holes and supernovae inject energy on galactic and intergalactic scales. These measurements are enabled by a 0.9 sq m collecting area at 1.25 keV, a micro calorimeter array providing high-resolution spectroscopic imaging and a deployable high efficiency grating spectrometer. AXSIO delivers a 30-fold increase in effective area for high resolution spectroscopy. The key simplifications are guided by recommendations in the NWNH panel report include a reduction in focal length from 20m to 10m, eliminating the extendable optical bench, and a reduction in the instrument complement from six to two, avoiding a movable instrument platform. A focus on spectroscopic science allows the spatial resolution requirement to be relaxed to 10 arc sec (with a 5 arc sec goal). These simplifications decrease the total mission cost to under the $2B cost to NASA recommended by NWNH. AXSIO will be available to the entire astronomical community with observing allocations based on peer-review.

Validation of Global Climatologies of Trace Gases Using NASA Global Tropospheric Experiment (GTE) Data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Courchaine, Brian; Venable, Jessica C.

1995-01-01

Methane is an important trace gas because it is a greenhouse gas that affects the oxidative capacity of the atmosphere. It is produced from biological and anthropogenic sources, and is increasing globally at a rate of approximately 0.6% per year [Climate Change 1992, IPCC]. By using National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration/Climate Monitoring and Diagnostics Laboratory (NOAA/CMDL) ground station data, a global climatology of methane values was produced. Unfortunately, because the NOAA/CMDL ground stations are so sparse, the global climatology is low resolution. In order to compensate for this low resolution data, it was compared to in-situ flight data obtained from the NASA Global Tropospheric Experiment (GTE). The smoothed ground station data correlated well with the flight data. Thus, for the first time it is shown that the smoothing process used to make global contours of methane using the ground stations is a plausible way to approximate global atmospheric concentrations of the gas. These verified climatologies can be used for testing large-scale models of chemical production, destruction, and transport. This project develops the groundwork for further research in building global climatologies from sparse ground station data and studying the transport and distribution of trace gases.

The role of parallelism in the real-time processing of anaphora.

PubMed

Poirier, Josée; Walenski, Matthew; Shapiro, Lewis P

2012-06-01

Parallelism effects refer to the facilitated processing of a target structure when it follows a similar, parallel structure. In coordination, a parallelism-related conjunction triggers the expectation that a second conjunct with the same structure as the first conjunct should occur. It has been proposed that parallelism effects reflect the use of the first structure as a template that guides the processing of the second. In this study, we examined the role of parallelism in real-time anaphora resolution by charting activation patterns in coordinated constructions containing anaphora, Verb-Phrase Ellipsis (VPE) and Noun-Phrase Traces (NP-traces). Specifically, we hypothesised that an expectation of parallelism would incite the parser to assume a structure similar to the first conjunct in the second, anaphora-containing conjunct. The speculation of a similar structure would result in early postulation of covert anaphora. Experiment 1 confirms that following a parallelism-related conjunction, first-conjunct material is activated in the second conjunct. Experiment 2 reveals that an NP-trace in the second conjunct is posited immediately where licensed, which is earlier than previously reported in the literature. In light of our findings, we propose an intricate relation between structural expectations and anaphor resolution.

The role of parallelism in the real-time processing of anaphora

PubMed Central

Poirier, Josée; Walenski, Matthew; Shapiro, Lewis P.

2012-01-01

Parallelism effects refer to the facilitated processing of a target structure when it follows a similar, parallel structure. In coordination, a parallelism-related conjunction triggers the expectation that a second conjunct with the same structure as the first conjunct should occur. It has been proposed that parallelism effects reflect the use of the first structure as a template that guides the processing of the second. In this study, we examined the role of parallelism in real-time anaphora resolution by charting activation patterns in coordinated constructions containing anaphora, Verb-Phrase Ellipsis (VPE) and Noun-Phrase Traces (NP-traces). Specifically, we hypothesised that an expectation of parallelism would incite the parser to assume a structure similar to the first conjunct in the second, anaphora-containing conjunct. The speculation of a similar structure would result in early postulation of covert anaphora. Experiment 1 confirms that following a parallelism-related conjunction, first-conjunct material is activated in the second conjunct. Experiment 2 reveals that an NP-trace in the second conjunct is posited immediately where licensed, which is earlier than previously reported in the literature. In light of our findings, we propose an intricate relation between structural expectations and anaphor resolution. PMID:23741080

Label-free vascular imaging in a spontaneous hamster cheek pouch carcinogen model for pre-cancer detection (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Fangyao; Morhard, Robert; Liu, Heather; Murphy, Helen; Farsiu, Sina; Ramanujam, Nimmi

2016-03-01

Inducing angiogenesis is one hallmark of cancer. Tumor induced neovasculature is often characterized as leaky, tortuous and chaotic, unlike a highly organized normal vasculature. Additionally, in the course of carcinogenesis, angiogenesis precedes a visible lesion. Tumor cannot grow beyond 1-2 mm in diameter without inducing angiogenesis. Therefore, capturing the event of angiogenesis may aid early detection of pre-cancer -important for better treatment prognoses in regions that lack the resources to manage invasive cancer. In this study, we imaged the neovascularization in vivo in a spontaneous hamster cheek pouch carcinogen model using a, non-invasive, label-free, high resolution, reflected-light spectral darkfield microscope. Hamsters' cheek pouches were painted with 7,12-Dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) to induce pre-cancerous to cancerous changes, or mineral oil as control. High resolution spectral darkfield images were obtained over the course of pre-cancer development and in control cheek pouches. The vasculature was segmented with a multi-scale Gabor filter with an 85% accuracy compared with manually traced masks. Highly tortuous vasculature was observed only in the DMBA treated cheek pouches as early as 6 weeks of treatment. In addition, the highly tortuous vessels could be identified before a visible lesion occurred later during the treatment. The vessel patterns as determined by the tortuosity index were significantly different from that of the control cheek pouch. This preliminary study suggests that high-resolution darkfield microscopy is promising tool for pre-cancer and early cancer detection in low resource settings.

Physical Properties and Seasonal Behavior of H2O, HDO, CO2 and Trace Gases on Mars: Quantitative Mapping from Earth-Based Observatories

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Novak, Robert E.; Mumma, Michael J.

2011-01-01

Since 1997, we have used high-resolution (R greater than 40000) spectrometers on ground based-telescopes to study molecules that have astrobiological significance in Mars' atmosphere. We have used the NASA-IRTF, Keck II, and VLT telescopes in the 1.0-5.0 micron range. The spectrometer is set at a wavelength to detect specific molecules. Spectral/spatial images are produced. Extracts from these images provide column densities centered at latitude/longitude locations (resolution 400km at sub-Earth point). We have mapped the O2 singlet-Delta emission (a proxy for ozone), HDO, and H2O for seasonal dates throughout the Martian year. Previously undiscovered isotopic bands of CO2 have been identified along with isotopic forms of CO. We are searching for other molecules that have astrobiological importance and have successfully measured methane in Mars' atmosphere.

Long-distance super-resolution imaging assisted by enhanced spatial Fourier transform.

PubMed

Tang, Heng-He; Liu, Pu-Kun

2015-09-07

A new gradient-index (GRIN) lens that can realize enhanced spatial Fourier transform (FT) over optically long distances is demonstrated. By using an anisotropic GRIN metamaterial with hyperbolic dispersion, evanescent wave in free space can be transformed into propagating wave in the metamaterial and then focused outside due to negative-refraction. Both the results based on the ray tracing and the finite element simulation show that the spatial frequency bandwidth of the spatial FT can be extended to 2.7k(0) (k(0) is the wave vector in free space). Furthermore, assisted by the enhanced spatial FT, a new long-distance (in the optical far-field region) super-resolution imaging scheme is also proposed and the super resolved capability of λ/5 (λ is the wavelength in free space) is verified. The work may provide technical support for designing new-type high-speed microscopes with long working distances.

NASA's Advancements in Space-Based Spectrometry Lead to Improvements in Weather Prediction and Understanding of Climate Processes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Susskind, Joel

2010-01-01

AIRS is a precision state of the art High Spectral Resolution Multi-detector IR grating array spectrometer that was launched into a polar orbit on EOS Aqua in 2002. AIRS measures most of the infra-red spectrum with very low noise from 650/cm to 2660/cm with a resolving power of 2400 at a spatial resolution of 13 km. The objectives of AIRS were to perform accurate determination of atmospheric temperature and moisture profiles in up to 90% partial cloud cover conditions for the purpose of improving numerical weather prediction and understanding climate processes. AIRS data has also been used to determine accurate trace gas profiles. A brief overview of the retrieval methodology used to analyze AIRS observations under partial cloud cover will be presented and sample results will be shown from the weather and climate perspectives.

High-Resolution Triple Resonance Autoionization of Uranium Isotopes

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

Schumann, Philipp G.; Wendt, K; Bushaw, Bruce A.

2005-11-01

The near-threshold autoionization (AI) spectrum of uranium has been investigated by triple-resonance excitation with single-mode continuous lasers. Spectra were recorded over the first {approx}30 cm-1 above the first ionization limit at a resolution of 3x10-4 cm 1 using intermediate states with different J values (6, 7, 8) to assign AI level total angular momentum JAI = 5 to 9. Resonances with widths ranging from 8 MHz to 30 GHz were observed; the strongest ones have JAI = 9 and widths of {approx} 60 MHz. Hyperfine structures for 235U and isotope shifts for 234,235U have been measured in the two intermediatemore » levels and in the final AI level for the most favorable excitation path. These measurements were performed using aqueous samples containing sub-milligram quantities of uranium at natural isotopic abundances, indicating the potential of this approach for trace isotope ratio determinations.« less

A single mini-barcode test to screen for Australian mammalian predators from environmental samples

PubMed Central

MacDonald, Anna J; Sarre, Stephen D

2017-01-01

Abstract Identification of species from trace samples is now possible through the comparison of diagnostic DNA fragments against reference DNA sequence databases. DNA detection of animals from non-invasive samples, such as predator faeces (scats) that contain traces of DNA from their species of origin, has proved to be a valuable tool for the management of elusive wildlife. However, application of this approach can be limited by the availability of appropriate genetic markers. Scat DNA is often degraded, meaning that longer DNA sequences, including standard DNA barcoding markers, are difficult to recover. Instead, targeted short diagnostic markers are required to serve as diagnostic mini-barcodes. The mitochondrial genome is a useful source of such trace DNA markers because it provides good resolution at the species level and occurs in high copy numbers per cell. We developed a mini-barcode based on a short (178 bp) fragment of the conserved 12S ribosomal ribonucleic acid mitochondrial gene sequence, with the goal of discriminating amongst the scats of large mammalian predators of Australia. We tested the sensitivity and specificity of our primers and can accurately detect and discriminate amongst quolls, cats, dogs, foxes, and devils from trace DNA samples. Our approach provides a cost-effective, time-efficient, and non-invasive tool that enables identification of all 8 medium-large mammal predators in Australia, including native and introduced species, using a single test. With modification, this approach is likely to be of broad applicability elsewhere. PMID:28810700

Widespread pollution of the South American atmosphere predates the industrial revolution by 240 y

PubMed Central

Uglietti, Chiara; Gabrielli, Paolo; Cooke, Colin A.; Vallelonga, Paul; Thompson, Lonnie G.

2015-01-01

In the Southern Hemisphere, evidence for preindustrial atmospheric pollution is restricted to a few geological archives of low temporal resolution that record trace element deposition originating from past mining and metallurgical operations in South America. Therefore, the timing and the spatial impact of these activities on the past atmosphere remain poorly constrained. Here we present an annually resolved ice core record (A.D. 793–1989) from the high-altitude drilling site of Quelccaya (Peru) that archives preindustrial and industrial variations in trace elements. During the precolonial period (i.e., pre-A.D. 1532), the deposition of trace elements was mainly dominated by the fallout of aeolian dust and of ash from occasional volcanic eruptions, indicating that metallurgic production during the Inca Empire (A.D. 1438−1532) had a negligible impact on the South American atmosphere. In contrast, a widespread anthropogenic signal is evident after around A.D. 1540, which corresponds with the beginning of colonial mining and metallurgy in Peru and Bolivia, ∼240 y before the Industrial Revolution. This shift was due to a major technological transition for silver extraction in South America (A.D. 1572), from lead-based smelting to mercury amalgamation, which precipitated a massive increase in mining activities. However, deposition of toxic trace metals during the Colonial era was still several factors lower than 20th century pollution that was unprecedented over the entirety of human history. PMID:25675506

Optical techniques: using coarse and detailed scans for the preventive acquisition of fingerprints with chromatic white-light sensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hildebrandt, Mario; Dittmann, Jana; Vielhauer, Claus; Leich, Marcus

2011-11-01

The preventive application of automated latent fingerprint acquisition devices can enhance the Homeland Defence, e.g. by improving the border security. Here, contact-less optical acquisition techniques for the capture of traces are subject to research; chromatic white light sensors allow for multi-mode operation using coarse or detailed scans. The presence of potential fingerprints could be detected using fast coarse scans. Those Regions-of- Interest can be acquired afterwards with high-resolution detailed scans to allow for a verification or identification of individuals. An acquisition and analysis of fingerprint traces on different objects that are imported or pass borders might be a great enhancement for security. Additionally, if suspicious objects require a further investigation, an initial securing of potential fingerprints could be very useful. In this paper we show current research results for the coarse detection of fingerprints to prepare the detailed acquisition from various surface materials that are relevant for preventive applications.

Climate variations of Central Asia on orbital to millennial timescales.

PubMed

Cheng, Hai; Spötl, Christoph; Breitenbach, Sebastian F M; Sinha, Ashish; Wassenburg, Jasper A; Jochum, Klaus Peter; Scholz, Denis; Li, Xianglei; Yi, Liang; Peng, Youbing; Lv, Yanbin; Zhang, Pingzhong; Votintseva, Antonina; Loginov, Vadim; Ning, Youfeng; Kathayat, Gayatri; Edwards, R Lawrence

2016-11-11

The extent to which climate variability in Central Asia is causally linked to large-scale changes in the Asian monsoon on varying timescales remains a longstanding question. Here we present precisely dated high-resolution speleothem oxygen-carbon isotope and trace element records of Central Asia's hydroclimate variability from Tonnel'naya cave, Uzbekistan, and Kesang cave, western China. On orbital timescales, the supra-regional climate variance, inferred from our oxygen isotope records, exhibits a precessional rhythm, punctuated by millennial-scale abrupt climate events, suggesting a close coupling with the Asian monsoon. However, the local hydroclimatic variability at both cave sites, inferred from carbon isotope and trace element records, shows climate variations that are distinctly different from their supra-regional modes. Particularly, hydroclimatic changes in both Tonnel'naya and Kesang areas during the Holocene lag behind the supra-regional climate variability by several thousand years. These observations may reconcile the apparent out-of-phase hydroclimatic variability, inferred from the Holocene lake proxy records, between Westerly Central Asia and Monsoon Asia.

Climate variations of Central Asia on orbital to millennial timescales

PubMed Central

Cheng, Hai; Spötl, Christoph; Breitenbach, Sebastian F. M.; Sinha, Ashish; Wassenburg, Jasper A.; Jochum, Klaus Peter; Scholz, Denis; Li, Xianglei; Yi, Liang; Peng, Youbing; Lv, Yanbin; Zhang, Pingzhong; Votintseva, Antonina; Loginov, Vadim; Ning, Youfeng; Kathayat, Gayatri; Edwards, R. Lawrence

2016-01-01

The extent to which climate variability in Central Asia is causally linked to large-scale changes in the Asian monsoon on varying timescales remains a longstanding question. Here we present precisely dated high-resolution speleothem oxygen-carbon isotope and trace element records of Central Asia’s hydroclimate variability from Tonnel’naya cave, Uzbekistan, and Kesang cave, western China. On orbital timescales, the supra-regional climate variance, inferred from our oxygen isotope records, exhibits a precessional rhythm, punctuated by millennial-scale abrupt climate events, suggesting a close coupling with the Asian monsoon. However, the local hydroclimatic variability at both cave sites, inferred from carbon isotope and trace element records, shows climate variations that are distinctly different from their supra-regional modes. Particularly, hydroclimatic changes in both Tonnel’naya and Kesang areas during the Holocene lag behind the supra-regional climate variability by several thousand years. These observations may reconcile the apparent out-of-phase hydroclimatic variability, inferred from the Holocene lake proxy records, between Westerly Central Asia and Monsoon Asia. PMID:27833133

Monitoring industrial contaminants release to Russian Arctic rivers

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

NONE

1995-12-31

Reports suggest that over 100 billion metric tons of mixed industrial wastes have been dumped or disposed of in the Northern and Arctic regions of the former Soviet Union in crude landfill facilities or directly into rivers. GERG has undertaken studies in two of the principal river systems transporting contaminants from large watersheds to the Arctic Ocean and Kara Seas, and has obtained samples of sediment and biota for analysis. In the current phase of the study, 20 surficial sediments down each of the axis of the Ob and Yenisey Rivers into the Kara Sea were analyzed for industrially derivedmore » trace organic compounds (hydrocarbons, pesticides, PCBs) and trace metals. Twenty sediments from the two rivers were subjected to high resolution OCIMS analysis for dioxins, furans, and coplanar PCBs to determine the concentrations of these industrial pollutants. In addition, similar analyses were conducted on 10 tissue samples (fish and other invertebrate animals) down the axis of each river.« less

On the use of colour reflectivity plots to monitor the structure of the troposphere and stratosphere

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rottger, J.; Fu, I. J.; Kuo, F. S.; Liu, C. H.; Chao, J. K.

1986-01-01

The radar reflectivity, defined as the range squared corrected power of VHF radar echoes, can be used to monitor and study the temporal development of inversion layer, frontal boundaries and convective turbulence. From typical featurs of upward or downward motion of reflectivity structures, the advection/convection of cold and warm air can be predicted. High resolution color plots appear to be useful to trace and to study the life history of these structures, particularly their persistency, descent and ascent. These displays allow an immediate determination of the tropopause height as well as the determination of the tropopause structure. The life history of warm fronts, cold fronts, and occlusions can be traced, and these reflectivity plots allow detection of even very weak events which cannot be seen in the traditional meteorological data sets. The life history of convective turbulence, particular evolving from the planetary boundary layer, can be tracked quite easily. Its development into strong convection reaching the middle troposphere can be followed and predicted.

Correction of the spectral calibration of the Joint European Torus core light detecting and ranging Thomson scattering diagnostic using ray tracing

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

Hawke, J.; Scannell, R.; Maslov, M.

2013-10-15

This work isolated the cause of the observed discrepancy between the electron temperature (T{sub e}) measurements before and after the JET Core LIDAR Thomson Scattering (TS) diagnostic was upgraded. In the upgrade process, stray light filters positioned just before the detectors were removed from the system. Modelling showed that the shift imposed on the stray light filters transmission functions due to the variations in the incidence angles of the collected photons impacted plasma measurements. To correct for this identified source of error, correction factors were developed using ray tracing models for the calibration and operational states of the diagnostic. Themore » application of these correction factors resulted in an increase in the observed T{sub e}, resulting in the partial if not complete removal of the observed discrepancy in the measured T{sub e} between the JET core LIDAR TS diagnostic, High Resolution Thomson Scattering, and the Electron Cyclotron Emission diagnostics.« less

Simultaneous quantification of neuroactive dopamine serotonin and kynurenine pathway metabolites in gender-specific youth urine by ultra performance liquid chromatography tandem high resolution mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Lu, Haihua; Yu, Jing; Wang, Jun; Wu, Linlin; Xiao, Hang; Gao, Rong

2016-04-15

Neuroactive metabolites in dopamine, serotonin and kynurenine metabolic pathways play key roles in several physiological processes and their imbalances have been implicated in the pathophysiology of a wide range of disorders. The association of these metabolites' alterations with various pathologies has raised interest in analytical methods for accurate quantification in biological fluids. However, simultaneous measurement of various neuroactive metabolites represents great challenges due to their trace level, high polarity and instability. In this study, an analytical method was developed and validated for accurately quantifying 12 neuroactive metabolites covering three metabolic pathways in youth urine by ultra performance liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray tandem high resolution mass spectrometry (UPLC-ESI-HRMS/MS). The strategy of dansyl chloride derivatization followed by solid phase extraction on C18 cartridges were employed to reduce matrix interference and improve the extraction efficiency. The reverse phase chromatographic separation was achieved with a gradient elution program in 20 min. The high resolution mass spectrometer (Q Exactive) was employed, with confirmation and quantification by Target-MS/MS scan mode. Youth urine samples collected from 100 healthy volunteers (Female:Male=1:1) were analyzed to explore the differences in metabolite profile and their turnover between genders. The results demonstrated that the UPLC-ESI-HRMS/MS method is sensitive and robust, suitable for monitoring a large panel of metabolites and for discovering new biomarkers in the medical fields. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

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

Kooperman, Gabriel J.; Pritchard, Michael S.; Burt, Melissa A.

Changes in the character of rainfall are assessed using a holistic set of statistics based on rainfall frequency and amount distributions in climate change experiments with three conventional and superparameterized versions of the Community Atmosphere Model (CAM and SPCAM). Previous work has shown that high-order statistics of present-day rainfall intensity are significantly improved with superparameterization, especially in regions of tropical convection. Globally, the two modeling approaches project a similar future increase in mean rainfall, especially across the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) and at high latitudes, but over land, SPCAM predicts a smaller mean change than CAM. Changes in high-order statisticsmore » are similar at high latitudes in the two models but diverge at lower latitudes. In the tropics, SPCAM projects a large intensification of moderate and extreme rain rates in regions of organized convection associated with the Madden Julian Oscillation, ITCZ, monsoons, and tropical waves. In contrast, this signal is missing in all versions of CAM, which are found to be prone to predicting increases in the amount but not intensity of moderate rates. Predictions from SPCAM exhibit a scale-insensitive behavior with little dependence on horizontal resolution for extreme rates, while lower resolution (~2°) versions of CAM are not able to capture the response simulated with higher resolution (~1°). Furthermore, moderate rain rates analyzed by the “amount mode” and “amount median” are found to be especially telling as a diagnostic for evaluating climate model performance and tracing future changes in rainfall statistics to tropical wave modes in SPCAM.« less

Cell lineage and cell cycling analyses of the 4d micromere using live imaging in the marine annelid Platynereis dumerilii

PubMed Central

Handberg-Thorsager, Mette; Vervoort, Michel

2017-01-01

Cell lineage, cell cycle, and cell fate are tightly associated in developmental processes, but in vivo studies at single-cell resolution showing the intricacies of these associations are rare due to technical limitations. In this study on the marine annelid Platynereis dumerilii, we investigated the lineage of the 4d micromere, using high-resolution long-term live imaging complemented with a live-cell cycle reporter. 4d is the origin of mesodermal lineages and the germline in many spiralians. We traced lineages at single-cell resolution within 4d and demonstrate that embryonic segmental mesoderm forms via teloblastic divisions, as in clitellate annelids. We also identified the precise cellular origins of the larval mesodermal posterior growth zone. We found that differentially-fated progeny of 4d (germline, segmental mesoderm, growth zone) display significantly different cell cycling. This work has evolutionary implications, sets up the foundation for functional studies in annelid stem cells, and presents newly established techniques for live imaging marine embryos. PMID:29231816

New Evidence for Quaternary Strain Partitioning Along the Queen Charlotte Fault System, Southeastern Alaska

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Walton, M. A. L.; Miller, N. C.; Brothers, D. S.; Kluesner, J.; Haeussler, P. J.; Conrad, J. E.; Andrews, B. D.; Ten Brink, U. S.

2017-12-01

The Queen Charlotte Fault (QCF) is a fast-moving ( 53 mm/yr) transform plate boundary fault separating the Pacific Plate from the North American Plate along western Canada and southeastern Alaska. New high-resolution bathymetric data along the fault show that the QCF main trace accommodates nearly all strike-slip plate motion along a single narrow deformation zone, though questions remain about how and where smaller amounts of oblique convergence are accommodated along-strike. Obliquity and convergence rates are highest in the south, where the 2012 Haida Gwaii, British Columbia MW 7.8 thrust earthquake was likely caused by Pacific underthrusting. In the north, where obliquity is lower, aftershocks from the 2013 Craig, Alaska MW 7.5 strike-slip earthquake also indicate active convergent deformation on the Pacific (west) side of the plate boundary. Off-fault structures previously mapped in legacy crustal-scale seismic profiles may therefore be accommodating part of the lesser amounts of Quaternary convergence north of Haida Gwaii. Between 2015 and 2017, the USGS acquired more than 8,000 line-km of offshore high-resolution multichannel seismic (MCS) data along the QCF to better understand plate boundary deformation. The new MCS data show evidence for Quaternary deformation associated with a series of elongate ridges located within 30 km of the QCF main trace on the Pacific side. These ridges are anticlinal structures flanked by growth faults, with recent deformation and active fluid flow characterized by seafloor scarps and seabed gas seeps at ridge crests. Structural and morphological evidence for contractional deformation decreases northward along the fault, consistent with a decrease in Pacific-North America obliquity along the plate boundary. Preliminary interpretations suggest that plate boundary transpression may be partitioned into distinctive structural domains, in which convergent stress is accommodated by margin-parallel thrust faulting, folding, and ridge formation within the Pacific Plate, with strike-slip faulting localized to the primary trace of the QCF. Contractional structures may be occupying zones of pre-existing crustal weakness and/or re-activated fabrics in the oceanic crust, possibly explaining strain partitioning behavior in areas with a low convergence angle (<15°).

Long open-path measurements of greenhouse gases in air using near-infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Griffith, David W. T.; Pöhler, Denis; Schmitt, Stefan; Hammer, Samuel; Vardag, Sanam N.; Platt, Ulrich

2018-03-01

In complex and urban environments, atmospheric trace gas composition is highly variable in time and space. Point measurement techniques for trace gases with in situ instruments are well established and accurate, but do not provide spatial averaging to compare against developing high-resolution atmospheric models of composition and meteorology with resolutions of the order of a kilometre. Open-path measurement techniques provide path average concentrations and spatial averaging which, if sufficiently accurate, may be better suited to assessment and interpretation with such models. Open-path Fourier transform spectroscopy (FTS) in the mid-infrared region, and differential optical absorption spectroscopy (DOAS) in the UV and visible, have been used for many years for open-path spectroscopic measurements of selected species in both clean air and in polluted environments. Near infrared instrumentation allows measurements over longer paths than mid-infrared FTS for species such as greenhouse gases which are not easily accessible to DOAS.In this pilot study we present the first open-path near-infrared (4000-10 000 cm-1, 1.0-2.5 µm) FTS measurements of CO2, CH4, O2, H2O and HDO over a 1.5 km path in urban Heidelberg, Germany. We describe the construction of the open-path FTS system, the analysis of the collected spectra, several measures of precision and accuracy of the measurements, and the results a four-month trial measurement period in July-November 2014. The open-path measurements are compared to calibrated in situ measurements made at one end of the open path. We observe significant differences of the order of a few ppm for CO2 and a few tens of ppb for CH4 between the open-path and point measurements which are 2 to 4 times the measurement repeatability, but we cannot unequivocally assign the differences to specific local sources or sinks. We conclude that open-path FTS may provide a valuable new tool for investigations of atmospheric trace gas composition in complex, small-scale environments such as cities.

Design of a normal incidence multilayer imaging x-ray microscope.

PubMed

Shealy, D L; Gabardi, D R; Hoover, R B; Walker, A B; Lindblom, J F; Barbee, T W

1989-01-01

Normal incidence multilayer Cassegrain x-ray telescopes were flown on the Stanford/MSFC Rocket X-Ray Spectroheliograph. These instruments produced high spatial resolution images of the Sun and conclusively demonstrated that doubly reflecting multilayer x-ray optical systems are feasible. The images indicated that aplanatic imaging soft x-ray /EUV microscopes should be achievable using multilayer optics technology. We have designed a doubly reflecting normal incidence multilayer imaging x-ray microscope based on the Schwarzschild configuration. The Schwarzschild microscope utilizes two spherical mirrors with concentric radii of curvature which are chosen such that the third-order spherical aberration and coma are minimized. We discuss the design of the microscope and the results of the optical system ray trace analysis which indicates that diffraction-limited performance with 600 Å spatial resolution should be obtainable over a 1 mm field of view at a wavelength of 100 Å. Fabrication of several imaging soft x-ray microscopes based upon these designs, for use in conjunction with x-ray telescopes and laser fusion research, is now in progress. High resolution aplanatic imaging x-ray microscopes using normal incidence multilayer x-ray mirrors should have many important applications in advanced x-ray astronomical instrumentation, x-ray lithography, biological, biomedical, metallurgical, and laser fusion research.

A high-resolution atlas of the infrared spectrum of the Sun and the Earth atmosphere from space: A compilation of ATMOS spectra of the region from 650 to 4800 cm (2.3 to 16 micron). Volume 1: The Sun

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Farmer, Crofton B.; Norton, Robert H.

1989-01-01

During the period April 29 through May 2, 1985, the Atmospheric Trace Molecular Spectroscopy experiment was operated as part of the Spacelab-3 payload of the shuttle Challenger. The instrument, a modified Michelson Interferometer covering the frequency range from 600 to 5000/cm, at a spectral resolution of 0.01/cm, recorded infrared spectra of the Sun and of the Earth's atmosphere at times close to entry into and exit from occultation by the Earth's limb as seen from the shuttle orbit of 360 km. Spectra were obtained that are free from absorptions due to constituents of the atmosphere (i.e., solar pure spectra), as well as spectra of the atmosphere itself, covering line-of-sight tangent altitudes that span the range from the lower thermosphere to the bottom of the troposphere. This atlas, believed to be the first record of observations of the continuous high resolution infrared spectrum of the Sun and the Earth's atmosphere from space, provides a compilation of these spectra arranged in a hardcopy format suitable for quick-look reference purposes; the data are also available in digital form.

Differential proxy responses to late Allerød and early Younger Dryas climatic change recorded in varved sediments of the Trzechowskie palaeolake in Northern Poland

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Słowiński, Michał; Zawiska, Izabela; Ott, Florian; Noryśkiewicz, Agnieszka M.; Plessen, Birgit; Apolinarska, Karina; Rzodkiewicz, Monika; Michczyńska, Danuta J.; Wulf, Sabine; Skubała, Piotr; Kordowski, Jarosław; Błaszkiewicz, Mirosław; Brauer, Achim

2017-02-01

High-resolution biological proxies (pollen, macrofossils, Cladocera and diatoms), geochemical data (μ-XRF element scans, TOC, C/N ratios, δ18Ocarb and δ13Corg values) and a robust chronology based on varve counting, AMS 14C dating and tephrochronology were applied to reconstruct lake system responses to rapid climatic and environmental changes of the Trzechowskie palaeolake (TRZ; Northern Poland) during the late Allerød - Younger Dryas (YD) transition. Palaeoecological and geochemical data at 5-15 years temporal resolution allowed tracing the dynamics of short-term shifts of the ecosystem triggered by abrupt climate change. The robust age control together with the high-resolution sampling allowed the detection of leads and lags between different proxies to the climate shift at the Allerød-Younger Dryas transition. Our results indicate (1) a water level decrease and an increase in wind activities during the late Allerød and the Allerød-YD transition, which caused intensified erosion in the catchment, (2) a two-decades delayed vegetation response in comparison to the lake depositional system. Comparison with the Lake Meerfelder Maar record revealed slightly different vegetation responses of the Trzechowskie palaeolake at the YD onset.

First Keck Interferometer measurements in self-phase referencing mode: spatially resolving circum-stellar line emission of 48 Lib

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pott, J.-U.; Woillez, J.; Ragland, S.; Wizinowich, P. L.; Eisner, J. A.; Monnier, J. D.; Akeson, R. L.; Ghez, A. M.; Graham, J. R.; Hillenbrand, L. A.; Millan-Gabet, R.; Appleby, E.; Berkey, B.; Colavita, M. M.; Cooper, A.; Felizardo, C.; Herstein, J.; Hrynevych, M.; Medeiros, D.; Morrison, D.; Panteleeva, T.; Smith, B.; Summers, K.; Tsubota, K.; Tyau, C.; Wetherell, E.

2010-07-01

Recently, the Keck interferometer was upgraded to do self-phase-referencing (SPR) assisted K-band spectroscopy at R ~ 2000. This means, combining a spectral resolution of 150 km/s with an angular resolution of 2.7 mas, while maintaining high sensitiviy. This SPR mode operates two fringe trackers in parallel, and explores several infrastructural requirements for off-axis phase-referencing, as currently being implemented as the KI-ASTRA project. The technology of self-phasereferencing opens the way to reach very high spectral resolution in near-infrared interferometry. We present the scientific capabilities of the KI-SPR mode in detail, at the example of observations of the Be-star 48 Lib. Several spectral lines of the cirumstellar disk are resolved. We describe the first detection of Pfund-lines in an interferometric spectrum of a Be star, in addition to Br γ. The differential phase signal can be used to (i) distinguish circum-stellar line emission from the star, (ii) to directly measure line asymmetries tracing an asymetric gas density distribution, (iii) to reach a differential, astrometric precision beyond single-telescope limits sufficient for studying the radial disk structure. Our data support the existence of a radius-dependent disk density perturbation, typically used to explain slow variations of Be-disk hydrogen line profiles.

A wide field-of-view imaging DOAS instrument for continuous trace gas mapping from aircraft

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schönhardt, A.; Altube, P.; Gerilowski, K.; Krautwurst, S.; Hartmann, J.; Meier, A. C.; Richter, A.; Burrows, J. P.

2014-04-01

For the purpose of trace gas measurements and pollution mapping, the Airborne imaging DOAS instrument for Measurements of Atmospheric Pollution (AirMAP) has been developed, characterised and successfully operated from aircraft. From the observations with the AirMAP instrument nitrogen dioxide (NO2) columns were retrieved. A major benefit of the pushbroom imaging instrument is the spatially continuous, gap-free measurement sequence independent of flight altitude, a valuable characteristic for mapping purposes. This is made possible by the use of a frame-transfer detector. With a wide-angle entrance objective, a broad field-of-view across track of around 48° is achieved, leading to a swath width of about the same size as the flight altitude. The use of fibre coupled light intake optics with sorted light fibres allows flexible positioning within the aircraft and retains the very good imaging capabilities. The measurements yield ground spatial resolutions below 100 m. From a maximum of 35 individual viewing directions (lines of sight, LOS) represented by 35 single fibres, the number of viewing directions is adapted to each situation by averaging according to signal-to-noise or spatial resolution requirements. Exploitation of all the viewing directions yields observations at 30 m spatial resolution, making the instrument a suitable tool for mapping trace gas point sources and small scale variability. For accurate spatial mapping the position and aircraft attitude are taken into account using the Attitude and Heading Reference System of the aircraft. A first demonstration mission using AirMAP was undertaken. In June 2011, AirMAP has been operated on the AWI Polar-5 aircraft in the framework of the AIRMETH2011 campaign. During a flight above a medium sized coal-fired power plant in North-West Germany, AirMAP clearly detects the emission plume downwind from the exhaust stack, with NO2 vertical columns around 2 × 1016 molecules cm-2 in the plume center. The emission estimates are consistent with reports in the pollutant transfer register. Strong spatial gradients and variability in NO2 amounts across and along flight direction are observed, and small-scale enhancements of NO2 above a motorway are detected. The present study reports on the experimental setup and characteristics of AirMAP, and the first measurements at high spatial resolution and wide spatial coverage are presented which meet the requirements for NO2 mapping to observe and account for the intrinsic variability of tropospheric NO2.

Contamination characteristics and source apportionment of trace metals in soils around Miyun Reservoir.

PubMed

Chen, Haiyang; Teng, Yanguo; Chen, Ruihui; Li, Jiao; Wang, Jinsheng

2016-08-01

Due to their toxicity and bioaccumulation, trace metals in soils can result in a wide range of toxic effects on animals, plants, microbes, and even humans. Recognizing the contamination characteristics of soil metals and especially apportioning their potential sources are the necessary preconditions for pollution prevention and control. Over the past decades, several receptor models have been developed for source apportionment. Among them, positive matrix factorization (PMF) has gained popularity and was recommended by the US Environmental Protection Agency as a general modeling tool. In this study, an extended chemometrics model, multivariate curve resolution-alternating least squares based on maximum likelihood principal component analysis (MCR-ALS/MLPCA), was proposed for source apportionment of soil metals and applied to identify the potential sources of trace metals in soils around Miyun Reservoir. Similar to PMF, the MCR-ALS/MLPCA model can incorporate measurement error information and non-negativity constraints in its calculation procedures. Model validation with synthetic dataset suggested that the MCR-ALS/MLPCA could extract acceptable recovered source profiles even considering relatively larger error levels. When applying to identify the sources of trace metals in soils around Miyun Reservoir, the MCR-ALS/MLPCA model obtained the highly similar profiles with PMF. On the other hand, the assessment results of contamination status showed that the soils around reservoir were polluted by trace metals in slightly moderate degree but potentially posed acceptable risks to the public. Mining activities, fertilizers and agrochemicals, and atmospheric deposition were identified as the potential anthropogenic sources with contributions of 24.8, 14.6, and 13.3 %, respectively. In order to protect the drinking water source of Beijing, special attention should be paid to the metal inputs to soils from mining and agricultural activities.

The Search for Efficiency in Arboreal Ray Tracing Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

van Leeuwen, M.; Disney, M.; Chen, J. M.; Gomez-Dans, J.; Kelbe, D.; van Aardt, J. A.; Lewis, P.

2016-12-01

Forest structure significantly impacts a range of abiotic conditions, including humidity and the radiation regime, all of which affect the rate of net and gross primary productivity. Current forest productivity models typically consider abstract media to represent the transfer of radiation within the canopy. Examples include the representation forest structure via a layered canopy model, where leaf area and inclination angles are stratified with canopy depth, or as turbid media where leaves are randomly distributed within space or within confined geometric solids such as blocks, spheres or cones. While these abstract models are known to produce accurate estimates of primary productivity at the stand level, their limited geometric resolution restricts applicability at fine spatial scales, such as the cell, leaf or shoot levels, thereby not addressing the full potential of assimilation of data from laboratory and field measurements with that of remote sensing technology. Recent research efforts have explored the use of laser scanning to capture detailed tree morphology at millimeter accuracy. These data can subsequently be used to combine ray tracing with primary productivity models, providing an ability to explore trade-offs among different morphological traits or assimilate data from spatial scales, spanning the leaf- to the stand level. Ray tracing has a major advantage of allowing the most accurate structural description of the canopy, and can directly exploit new 3D structural measurements, e.g., from laser scanning. However, the biggest limitation of ray tracing models is their high computational cost, which currently limits their use for large-scale applications. In this talk, we explore ways to more efficiently exploit ray tracing simulations and capture this information in a readily computable form for future evaluation, thus potentially enabling large-scale first-principles forest growth modelling applications.

Isotopes and Trace Elements as Natal Origin Markers of Helicoverpa armigera – An Experimental Model for Biosecurity Pests

PubMed Central

Holder, Peter W.; Armstrong, Karen; Van Hale, Robert; Millet, Marc-Alban; Frew, Russell; Clough, Timothy J.; Baker, Joel A.

2014-01-01

Protecting a nation's primary production sector and natural estate is heavily dependent on the ability to determine the risk presented by incursions of exotic insect species. Identifying the geographic origin of such biosecurity breaches can be crucial in determining this risk and directing the appropriate operational responses and eradication campaigns, as well as ascertaining incursion pathways. Reading natural abundance biogeochemical markers using mass spectrometry is a powerful tool for tracing ecological pathways as well as provenance determination of commercial products and items of forensic interest. However, application of these methods to trace insects has been underutilised to date and our understanding in this field is still in a phase of basic development. In addition, biogeochemical markers have never been considered in the atypical situation of a biosecurity incursion, where sample sizes are often small, and of unknown geographic origin and plant host. These constraints effectively confound the interpretation of the one or two isotope geo-location markers systems that are currently used, which are therefore unlikely to achieve the level of provenance resolution required in biosecurity interceptions. Here, a novel approach is taken to evaluate the potential for provenance resolution of insect samples through multiple biogeochemical markers. The international pest, Helicoverpa armigera, has been used as a model species to assess the validity of using naturally occurring δ2H, 87Sr/86Sr, 207Pb/206Pb and 208Pb/206Pb isotope ratios and trace element concentration signatures from single moth specimens for regional assignment to natal origin. None of the biogeochemical markers selected were individually able to separate moths from the different experimental regions (150–3000 km apart). Conversely, using multivariate analysis, the region of origin was correctly identified for approximately 75% of individual H. armigera samples. The geographic resolution demonstrated with this approach has considerable potential for biosecurity as well as other disciplines including forensics, ecology and pest management. PMID:24664236

High resolution middle infrared spectrometer, a part of atmospheric chemistry suite (ACS) for EXOMARS 2016 trace gas orbiter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Trokhimovskiy, Alexander; Korablev, Oleg; Ivanov, Yurii; Syniavskyi, Ivan; Montmessin, Franck; Fedorova, Anna

2017-11-01

The Atmospheric Chemistry Suite (ACS) package is a part of Russian contribution to ExoMars ESARoscosmos mission for studies of the Martian atmosphere and climate. ACS consists of three separate infrared spectrometers, sharing common mechanical, electrical, and thermal interfaces. The mid-infrared (MIR) channel is a cross-dispersion high resolution echelle instrument dedicated to solar occultation measurements and sensitive studies of trace gases. The MIR channel is a spectrometer working in 2.3-4.2 μm spectral range, covering simultaneously up to almost 300 nm per exposure, targeting the resolving power of 50,000. A crossdispersion concept on echelle and ordinary diffraction grating allows acquisition of the wide wavelength domain at once. That provides a strategic advantage for maximizing the number of gaseous species detected simultaneously and good special resolution of measurements during fast occultation sessions. Moving the second grating allows to switch from one group of the diffraction orders to another prior to a series of measurements, or desired positions during one measurement sequence. The concept of the cross-dispersion echelle instrument, which is widely accepted in astronomy, has been already employed in planetary missions with VIRTIS-H instrument presently in flight on Rosetta and Venus Express missions. Targeting very high spectral resolution the MIR channel operates in solar occultation only. A telescope with relative aperture of 1∶3 forms the image of the solar disk on the slit. The FOV is determined by the slit and it consists 0.1×2.9 mrad. The spectral resolution of the spectrometer is fully slit-limited, and the resolving power of λ/Δλ >= 50000 at 3.3 μm is supported. Two secondary cross-dispersion diffraction gratings (plain, 180 and 361 grooves per mm) are mounted back-to-back on a stepper motor to change observed echelle orders. We have chosen two secondary gratings philosophy to switch between them depending on the long or short wavelength range we are on. Changing the position of the secondary grating in angular steps of 1.8°, from 10 to 30 echelle orders are available for simultaneous record depending on the wavelength. 100 steps are evidently used to switch between gratings prior measurements. The full spectral range is covered on diffraction orders from 142 to 248. For each observation detector area is covered by 10 to 30 stripes, each corresponding to single echelle diffraction order. Given the complexity of the diffraction orders pattern, full detector frames will be transmitted to the ground, with lossless compression. However, the onboard averaging will be possible. Single data frame will be accumulated for 0.5 seconds, stacking of a number of shorter exposures.

Efficient use of single molecule time traces to resolve kinetic rates, models and uncertainties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schmid, Sonja; Hugel, Thorsten

2018-03-01

Single molecule time traces reveal the time evolution of unsynchronized kinetic systems. Especially single molecule Förster resonance energy transfer (smFRET) provides access to enzymatically important time scales, combined with molecular distance resolution and minimal interference with the sample. Yet the kinetic analysis of smFRET time traces is complicated by experimental shortcomings—such as photo-bleaching and noise. Here we recapitulate the fundamental limits of single molecule fluorescence that render the classic, dwell-time based kinetic analysis unsuitable. In contrast, our Single Molecule Analysis of Complex Kinetic Sequences (SMACKS) considers every data point and combines the information of many short traces in one global kinetic rate model. We demonstrate the potential of SMACKS by resolving the small kinetic effects caused by different ionic strengths in the chaperone protein Hsp90. These results show an unexpected interrelation between conformational dynamics and ATPase activity in Hsp90.

Reference standard space hippocampus labels according to the European Alzheimer's Disease Consortium-Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative harmonized protocol: Utility in automated volumetry.

PubMed

Wolf, Dominik; Bocchetta, Martina; Preboske, Gregory M; Boccardi, Marina; Grothe, Michel J

2017-08-01

A harmonized protocol (HarP) for manual hippocampal segmentation on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has recently been developed by an international European Alzheimer's Disease Consortium-Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative project. We aimed at providing consensual certified HarP hippocampal labels in Montreal Neurological Institute (MNI) standard space to serve as reference in automated image analyses. Manual HarP tracings on the high-resolution MNI152 standard space template of four expert certified HarP tracers were combined to obtain consensual bilateral hippocampus labels. Utility and validity of these reference labels is demonstrated in a simple atlas-based morphometry approach for automated calculation of HarP-compliant hippocampal volumes within SPM software. Individual tracings showed very high agreement among the four expert tracers (pairwise Jaccard indices 0.82-0.87). Automatically calculated hippocampal volumes were highly correlated (r L/R  = 0.89/0.91) with gold standard volumes in the HarP benchmark data set (N = 135 MRIs), with a mean volume difference of 9% (standard deviation 7%). The consensual HarP hippocampus labels in the MNI152 template can serve as a reference standard for automated image analyses involving MNI standard space normalization. Copyright © 2017 the Alzheimer's Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

High Resolution SOFIA/EXES Spectroscopy of CH4 and SO2 toward Massive Young Stellar Objects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boogert, Abraham C. A.; Richter, Matt; DeWitt, Curtis; Indriolo, Nick; Neufeld, David A.; Karska, Agata; Bergin, Edwin A.; Smith, Rachel L.; Montiel, Edward

2017-01-01

The ro-vibrational transitions of molecules in the near to mid-infrared are excellent tracers of the composition, dynamics, and excitation of the inner regions of Young Stellar Objects (YSOs). They sample a wide range of excitations in a short wavelength range, they can be seen in absorption against strong hot dust continuum sources, and they trace molecules without permanent dipole moment not observable at radio wavelengths. In particular, at high infrared spectral resolution, spatial scales smaller than those imaged by millimeter wave interferometers can be studied dynamically.We present high resolution (R=λ/Δλ˜50,000-100,000 6-12 km/s) infrared (7-8 μm) spectra of massive YSOs observed with the Echelon-Cross-Echelle Spectrograph (EXES) on the Stratospheric Observatory For Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA). Absorption lines of gas phase methane (CH4) are detected in our Cycle 2 observations. CH4 is thought to be a starting point of the formation of carbon chain molecules. Abundances are derived in the different dynamical regions along the sight-line towards the central star by comparing the line profiles to those of CO and other species observed at ground based facilities such as EXES' sister instrument TEXES at IRTF and Gemini. A search is also conducted for sulfur-dioxide, using data from our ongoing Cycle 4 program. SO2 was previously detected towards these massive YSOs with the space-based ISO/SWS instrument (Keane et al. 2001, A&A 376, L5) at much lower spectral resolution (R˜2,000). At high spectral resolution we should be able to pin-point the dynamical location of this SO2 gas. Up to 98% of the sulfur in dense clouds and protostellar envelopes is presently missing, and we are searching for that with the EXES/SOFIA observations.

Little Ice Age versus Present Day: Comparison of Temperature, Precipitation and Seasonality in Speleothem Records from the Han-sur-Lesse Cave, Belgium.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vansteenberge, S.; Van Opdenbosch, J.; Van Rampelbergh, M.; Verheyden, S.; Keppens, E.; Cheng, H.; Edwards, R. L.; Claeys, P. F.

2015-12-01

The Proserpine stalagmite is a 2 m large, tabular-shaped speleothem located in the Han-sur-Lesse cave in Belgium. The speleothem formed over the last 1000 years and is still growing. High-accuracy U/Th datings have indicated exceptionally high growth-rates of up to 2 mm per year. This, together with a well expressed annual layering, makes the Proserpine stalagmite an ideal candidate for high-resolution paleoclimate reconstructions of the last millennium. Previous work, including over 10 years of cave monitoring, has already learned us how short-term, i.e. decadal to seasonal, climate variations are incorporated within speleothem calcite from the Han-sur-Lesse cave system. It has been shown that δ18O and δ13C stable isotopes and trace element proxies of recently formed calcite reflect seasonal variations in temperature and precipitation of the near-cave environment (Verheyden et al, 2008; Van Rampelbergh et al., 2014). Now, this knowledge was used to infer local climate parameters further back in time to the period of +/- 1620-1630 CE, corresponding to one of the cold peaks within the Little Ice Age. Speleothem calcite was sampled at sub-annual resolution, with approximately 11 samples per year, for stable isotope analysis. LA-ICP-MS and µXRF analyses resulted in time series of trace elements. Preliminary results indicate a well expressed seasonal signal in δ13C and trace element composition but a multi-annual to decadal trend in δ18O. This combined proxy study eventually enables comparison of the expression of seasonality and longer term climate variations between a Little Ice Age cold peak and Present Day. References: Verheyden, S. et al., 2008, Monitoring climatological, hydrological and geochemical parameters in the Père Noël cave (Belgium): implication for the interpretation of speleothem isotopic and geochemical time-series. International Journal of Speleology, 37(3), 221-234. Van Rampelbergh, M. et al., 2014, Seasonal variations recorded in cave monitoring results and a 10-year monthly resolved speleothem δ13C and δ18O record from the Han-sur-Lesse cave, Belgium. Climate of the Past, 10, 1-15, 2014.

Fluorescence turn-on sensing of trace cadmium ions based on EDTA-etched CdTe@CdS quantum dot.

PubMed

Wang, Si-Nan; Zhu, Jian; Li, Xin; Li, Jian-Jun; Zhao, Jun-Wu

2018-05-01

Cadmium-caused environmental pollution and diseases have always been worldwide problems. Thus it is extremely urgent to establish a cheap, rapid, simple and selective detection method for trace cadmium in drinking water. In this study, a fluorescence "turn-on" method based on ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA)-etched CdTe@CdS quantum dots (QDs) was designed to detect Cd 2+ . High resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were utilized for chemical and structural characterization of the as-prepared QDs. Based on chemical etching of EDTA on the surface of CdTe@CdS QDs, specific Cd 2+ recognition sites were produced, and then results in fluorescence quenching. The introduction of Cd 2+ could identify these sites and restore the fluorescence of the EDTA-QDs system. Under the optimum conditions, the nanoprobe shows a linear response range from 0.05 to 9 μM with a very low detection limit of 0.032 μM. In addition, the reported fluorescence probe in this work displays a good selectivity for trace Cd 2+ over other metal ions and an admirable practicability in real water samples. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Trace: a high-throughput tomographic reconstruction engine for large-scale datasets

DOE PAGES

Bicer, Tekin; Gursoy, Doga; Andrade, Vincent De; ...

2017-01-28

Here, synchrotron light source and detector technologies enable scientists to perform advanced experiments. These scientific instruments and experiments produce data at such scale and complexity that large-scale computation is required to unleash their full power. One of the widely used data acquisition technique at light sources is Computed Tomography, which can generate tens of GB/s depending on x-ray range. A large-scale tomographic dataset, such as mouse brain, may require hours of computation time with a medium size workstation. In this paper, we present Trace, a data-intensive computing middleware we developed for implementation and parallelization of iterative tomographic reconstruction algorithms. Tracemore » provides fine-grained reconstruction of tomography datasets using both (thread level) shared memory and (process level) distributed memory parallelization. Trace utilizes a special data structure called replicated reconstruction object to maximize application performance. We also present the optimizations we have done on the replicated reconstruction objects and evaluate them using a shale and a mouse brain sinogram. Our experimental evaluations show that the applied optimizations and parallelization techniques can provide 158x speedup (using 32 compute nodes) over single core configuration, which decreases the reconstruction time of a sinogram (with 4501 projections and 22400 detector resolution) from 12.5 hours to less than 5 minutes per iteration.« less

Trace: a high-throughput tomographic reconstruction engine for large-scale datasets

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

Bicer, Tekin; Gursoy, Doga; Andrade, Vincent De

Here, synchrotron light source and detector technologies enable scientists to perform advanced experiments. These scientific instruments and experiments produce data at such scale and complexity that large-scale computation is required to unleash their full power. One of the widely used data acquisition technique at light sources is Computed Tomography, which can generate tens of GB/s depending on x-ray range. A large-scale tomographic dataset, such as mouse brain, may require hours of computation time with a medium size workstation. In this paper, we present Trace, a data-intensive computing middleware we developed for implementation and parallelization of iterative tomographic reconstruction algorithms. Tracemore » provides fine-grained reconstruction of tomography datasets using both (thread level) shared memory and (process level) distributed memory parallelization. Trace utilizes a special data structure called replicated reconstruction object to maximize application performance. We also present the optimizations we have done on the replicated reconstruction objects and evaluate them using a shale and a mouse brain sinogram. Our experimental evaluations show that the applied optimizations and parallelization techniques can provide 158x speedup (using 32 compute nodes) over single core configuration, which decreases the reconstruction time of a sinogram (with 4501 projections and 22400 detector resolution) from 12.5 hours to less than 5 minutes per iteration.« less

Trace-Level Volatile Quantitation by Direct Analysis in Real Time Mass Spectrometry following Headspace Extraction: Optimization and Validation in Grapes.

PubMed

Jastrzembski, Jillian A; Bee, Madeleine Y; Sacks, Gavin L

2017-10-25

Ambient ionization mass spectrometric (AI-MS) techniques like direct analysis in real time (DART) offer the potential for rapid quantitative analyses of trace volatiles in food matrices, but performance is generally limited by the lack of preconcentration and extraction steps. The sensitivity and selectivity of AI-MS approaches can be improved through solid-phase microextraction (SPME) with appropriate thin-film geometries, for example, solid-phase mesh-enhanced sorption from headspace (SPMESH). This work improves the SPMESH-DART-MS approach for use in food analyses and validates the approach for trace volatile analysis for two compounds in real samples (grape macerates). SPMESH units prepared with different sorbent coatings were evaluated for their ability to extract a range of odor-active volatiles, with poly(dimethylsiloxane)/divinylbenzene giving the most satisfactory results. In combination with high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS), detection limits for SPMESH-DART-MS under 4 ng/L in less than 30 s acquisition times could be achieved for some volatiles [3-isobutyl-2-methoxypyrazine (IBMP) and β-damascenone]. A comparison of SPMESH-DART-MS and SPME-GC-MS quantitation of linalool and IBMP demonstrates excellent agreement between the two methods for real grape samples (r 2 ≥ 0.90), although linalool measurements appeared to also include isobaric interference.

Differentiating the Bishop ash bed and related tephra layers by elemental-based similarity coefficients of volcanic glass shards using solution inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (S-ICP-MS)

USGS Publications Warehouse

Knott, J.R.; Sarna-Wojcicki, A. M.; Montanez, I.P.; Wan, E.

2007-01-01

Volcanic glass samples from the same volcanic center (intra-source) often have a similar major-element composition. Thus, it can be difficult to distinguish between individual tephra layers, particularly when using similarity coefficients calculated from electron microprobe major-element measurements. Minor/trace element concentrations in glass can be determined by solution inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (S-ICP-MS), but have not been shown as suitable for use in large tephrochronologic databases. Here, we present minor/trace-element concentrations measured by S-ICP-MS and compare these data by similarity coefficients, the method commonly used in large databases. Trial samples from the Bishop Tuff, the upper and lower tuffs of Glass Mountain and the tuffs of Mesquite Spring suites from eastern California, USA, which have an indistinguishable major-element composition, were analyzed using S-ICP-MS. The resulting minor/trace element similarity coefficients clearly separated the suites of tephra layers and, in most cases, individual tephra layers within each suite. Comparisons with previous instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) elemental measurements were marginally successful. This is important step toward quantitative correlation in large tephrochronologic databases to achieve definitive identification of volcanic glass samples and for high-resolution age determinations. ?? 2007 Elsevier Ltd and INQUA.

X-ray observations of characteristic structures and time variations from the solar corona - Preliminary results from Skylab.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vaiana, G. S.; Davis, J. M.; Giacconi, R.; Krieger, A. S.; Silk, J. K.; Timothy, A. F.; Zombeck, M.

1973-01-01

Examples taken from the S-054 X-ray telescope observations made during the first Skylab mission show the hot coronal plasma tracing the configuration of the magnetic fields. The high spectral resolution and sensitivity of the instrument has enabled the following two facts to be more firmly established: (1) that the 'quiet homogeneous corona' is in fact highly structured and that the structures observed appear to be the results of dispersed active region magnetic fields; and (2) that numerous bright points are distributed randomly on the disk. Their presence at high latitudes may play a role in solar cycle models. In addition, the capability of Skylab for studying time evolution has enabled the restructuring of coronal features to be seen at times of high activity, indicating a restructuring of the coronal magnetic fields.

Analytical SuperSTEM for extraterrestrial materials research

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

Bradley, J P; Dai, Z R

2009-09-08

Electron-beam studies of extraterrestrial materials with significantly improved spatial resolution, energy resolution and sensitivity are enabled using a 300 keV SuperSTEM scanning transmission electron microscope with a monochromator and two spherical aberration correctors. The improved technical capabilities enable analyses previously not possible. Mineral structures can be directly imaged and analyzed with single-atomic-column resolution, liquids and implanted gases can be detected, and UV-VIS optical properties can be measured. Detection limits for minor/trace elements in thin (<100 nm thick) specimens are improved such that quantitative measurements of some extend to the sub-500 ppm level. Electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) can be carried outmore » with 0.10-0.20 eV energy resolution and atomic-scale spatial resolution such that variations in oxidation state from one atomic column to another can be detected. Petrographic mapping is extended down to the atomic scale using energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and energy-filtered transmission electron microscopy (EFTEM) imaging. Technical capabilities and examples of the applications of SuperSTEM to extraterrestrial materials are presented, including the UV spectral properties and organic carbon K-edge fine structure of carbonaceous matter in interplanetary dust particles (IDPs), x-ray elemental maps showing the nanometer-scale distribution of carbon within GEMS (glass with embedded metal and sulfides), the first detection and quantification of trace Ti in GEMS using EDS, and detection of molecular H{sub 2}O in vesicles and implanted H{sub 2} and He in irradiated mineral and glass grains.« less

Gamma ray spectroscopy employing divalent europium-doped alkaline earth halides and digital readout for accurate histogramming

DOEpatents

Cherepy, Nerine Jane; Payne, Stephen Anthony; Drury, Owen B; Sturm, Benjamin W

2014-11-11

A scintillator radiation detector system according to one embodiment includes a scintillator; and a processing device for processing pulse traces corresponding to light pulses from the scintillator, wherein pulse digitization is used to improve energy resolution of the system. A scintillator radiation detector system according to another embodiment includes a processing device for fitting digitized scintillation waveforms to an algorithm based on identifying rise and decay times and performing a direct integration of fit parameters. A method according to yet another embodiment includes processing pulse traces corresponding to light pulses from a scintillator, wherein pulse digitization is used to improve energy resolution of the system. A method in a further embodiment includes fitting digitized scintillation waveforms to an algorithm based on identifying rise and decay times; and performing a direct integration of fit parameters. Additional systems and methods are also presented.

Concepts of Cell Lineage in Mammalian Embryos.

PubMed

Papaioannou, Virginia E

2016-01-01

Cell lineage is the framework for understanding cellular diversity, stability of differentiation, and its relationship to pluripotency. The special condition of in utero development in mammals has presented challenges to developmental biologists in tracing cell lineages but modern imaging and cell marking techniques have allowed the gradual elucidation of lineage relationships. Early experimental embryology approaches had limited resolution and relied of suboptimal cell markers and considerable disturbance to the embryos. Transgenic technology introduced genetic markers, particularly fluorescent proteins that, combined with sophisticated imaging modalities, greatly increase resolution and allow clonal analysis within lineages. The concept of cell lineage has also undergone evolution as it became possible to trace the lineage of cells based not only on their physical location or attributes but also on their gene expression pattern, thus opening up mechanistic lines of investigation into the determinants of cell lineage. © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Supersize me: how whole-genome sequencing and big data are transforming epidemiology.

PubMed

Kao, Rowland R; Haydon, Daniel T; Lycett, Samantha J; Murcia, Pablo R

2014-05-01

In epidemiology, the identification of 'who infected whom' allows us to quantify key characteristics such as incubation periods, heterogeneity in transmission rates, duration of infectiousness, and the existence of high-risk groups. Although invaluable, the existence of many plausible infection pathways makes this difficult, and epidemiological contact tracing either uncertain, logistically prohibitive, or both. The recent advent of next-generation sequencing technology allows the identification of traceable differences in the pathogen genome that are transforming our ability to understand high-resolution disease transmission, sometimes even down to the host-to-host scale. We review recent examples of the use of pathogen whole-genome sequencing for the purpose of forensic tracing of transmission pathways, focusing on the particular problems where evolutionary dynamics must be supplemented by epidemiological information on the most likely timing of events as well as possible transmission pathways. We also discuss potential pitfalls in the over-interpretation of these data, and highlight the manner in which a confluence of this technology with sophisticated mathematical and statistical approaches has the potential to produce a paradigm shift in our understanding of infectious disease transmission and control. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Spatial dependence of reduced sulfur in Everglades dissolved organic matter controlled by sulfate enrichment

USGS Publications Warehouse

Poulin, Brett A.; Ryan, Joseph N.; Nagy, Kathryn L.; Stubbins, Aron; Dittmar, Thorsten; Orem, William H.; Krabbenhoft, David P.; Aiken, George R.

2017-01-01

Sulfate inputs to the Florida Everglades stimulate sulfidic conditions in freshwater wetland sediments that affect ecological and biogeochemical processes. An unexplored implication of sulfate enrichment is alteration of the content and speciation of sulfur in dissolved organic matter (DOM), which influences the reactivity of DOM with trace metals. Here, we describe the vertical and lateral spatial dependence of sulfur chemistry in the hydrophobic organic acid fraction of DOM from unimpacted and sulfate-impacted Everglades wetlands using X-ray absorption spectroscopy and ultrahigh-resolution mass spectrometry. Spatial variation in DOM sulfur content and speciation reflects the degree of sulfate enrichment and resulting sulfide concentrations in sediment pore waters. Sulfur is incorporated into DOM predominantly as highly reduced species in sulfidic pore waters. Sulfur-enriched DOM in sediment pore waters exchanges with overlying surface waters and the sulfur likely undergoes oxidative transformations in the water column. Across all wetland sites and depths, the total sulfur content of DOM correlated with the relative abundance of highly reduced sulfur functionality. The results identify sulfate input as a primary determinant on DOM sulfur chemistry to be considered in the context of wetland restoration and sulfur and trace metal cycling.

IR Variability of Eta Carinae

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smith, Nathan

2007-02-01

Every 5.5 years, η Carinae experiences a dramatic ``spectroscopic event'' when high-excitation lines in its UV, optical, and IR spectrum disappear, and its hard X-ray and radio continuum flux crash. This periodicity has been attributed to an eccentric binary system with a shell ejection occurring at periastron. In addition, η Car shows long term changes as it is still recovering from its giant 19th century outburst. Both types of variability are directly linked to the current mass-loss rate and dust formation in its wind. Mid-IR images and spectra with T-ReCS provide a direct measure of changes in the current bolometric luminosity and trace dust formation episodes. This will provide a direct measurement of the mass ejected. Near-IR emission lines trace related changes in the post-event wind and ionization changes in the circumstellar environment needed to test specific models for the cause of η Car's variability as it recovers from its recent ``event''. High resolution near-IR spectra with GNIRS will continue the important work of HST/STIS, investigating changes in the direct and reflected spectrum of the stellar wind, and ionization changes in the nebula.

Recovering Paleo-Records from Antarctic Ice-Cores by Coupling a Continuous Melting Device and Fast Ion Chromatography.

PubMed

Severi, Mirko; Becagli, Silvia; Traversi, Rita; Udisti, Roberto

2015-11-17

Recently, the increasing interest in the understanding of global climatic changes and on natural processes related to climate yielded the development and improvement of new analytical methods for the analysis of environmental samples. The determination of trace chemical species is a useful tool in paleoclimatology, and the techniques for the analysis of ice cores have evolved during the past few years from laborious measurements on discrete samples to continuous techniques allowing higher temporal resolution, higher sensitivity and, above all, higher throughput. Two fast ion chromatographic (FIC) methods are presented. The first method was able to measure Cl(-), NO3(-) and SO4(2-) in a melter-based continuous flow system separating the three analytes in just 1 min. The second method (called Ultra-FIC) was able to perform a single chromatographic analysis in just 30 s and the resulting sampling resolution was 1.0 cm with a typical melting rate of 4.0 cm min(-1). Both methods combine the accuracy, precision, and low detection limits of ion chromatography with the enhanced speed and high depth resolution of continuous melting systems. Both methods have been tested and validated with the analysis of several hundred meters of different ice cores. In particular, the Ultra-FIC method was used to reconstruct the high-resolution SO4(2-) profile of the last 10,000 years for the EDML ice core, allowing the counting of the annual layers, which represents a key point in dating these kind of natural archives.

Miniature Trace Gas Detector Based on Microfabricated Optical Resonators

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Aveline, David C.; Yu, Nan; Thompson, Robert J.; Strekalov, Dmitry V.

2013-01-01

While a variety of techniques exist to monitor trace gases, methods relying on absorption of laser light are the most commonly used in terrestrial applications. Cavity-enhanced absorption techniques typically use high-reflectivity mirrors to form a resonant cavity, inside of which a sample gas can be analyzed. The effective absorption length is augmented by the cavity's high quality factor, or Q, because the light reflects many times between the mirrors. The sensitivity of such mirror-based sensors scales with size, generally making them somewhat bulky in volume. Also, specialized coatings for the high-reflectivity mirrors have limited bandwidth (typically just a few nanometers), and the delicate mirror surfaces can easily be degraded by dust or chemical films. As a highly sensitive and compact alternative, JPL is developing a novel trace gas sensor based on a monolithic optical resonator structure that has been modified such that a gas sample can be directly injected into the cavity. This device concept combines ultra-high Q optical whispering gallery mode resonators (WGMR) with microfabrication technology used in the semiconductor industry. For direct access to the optical mode inside a resonator, material can be precisely milled from its perimeter, creating an open gap within the WGMR. Within this open notch, the full optical mode of the resonator can be accessed. While this modification may limit the obtainable Q, calculations show that the reduction is not significant enough to outweigh its utility for trace gas detection. The notch can be milled from the high- Q crystalline WGMR with a focused ion beam (FIB) instrument with resolution much finer than an optical wavelength, thereby minimizing scattering losses and preserving the optical quality. Initial experimental demonstrations have shown that these opened cavities still support high-Q whispering gallery modes. This technology could provide ultrasensitive detection of a variety of molecular species in an extremely compact and robust package. With this type of modified WGMR, one can inject a gas sample into the open gap, allowing highly sensitive trace molecule detection within a roughly 1-cm volume. Other critical components of the instrument, such as the detector and a semiconductor laser, could be directly packaged with the resonator so as to not significantly increase the size of the device. Besides its low mass, volume, and power consumption, the monolithic design makes these resonators intrinsically robust devices, capable of handling significant temperature excursions, without moving parts to wear out or delicate coatings that can be easily damaged. A sensor could integrate with microfluidics technology for a chip-scale device. It could be mounted to the end of a deployable arm, or inserted into a borehole. Also, a network of individual sensors could be dispersed to monitor conditions over a wide region

Ultra-High Resolution Spectroscopic Remote Sensing: A Microscope on Planetary Atmospheres

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kostiuk, Theodor

2010-01-01

Remote sensing of planetary atmospheres is not complete without studies of all levels of the atmosphere, including the dense cloudy- and haze filled troposphere, relatively clear and important stratosphere and the upper atmosphere, which are the first levels to experience the effects of solar radiation. High-resolution spectroscopy can provide valuable information on these regions of the atmosphere. Ultra-high spectral resolution studies can directly measure atmospheric winds, composition, temperature and non-thermal phenomena, which describe the physics and chemistry of the atmosphere. Spectroscopy in the middle to long infrared wavelengths can also probe levels where dust of haze limit measurements at shorter wavelength or can provide ambiguous results on atmospheric species abundances or winds. A spectroscopic technique in the middle infrared wavelengths analogous to a radio receiver. infrared heterodyne spectroscopy [1], will be describe and used to illustrate the detailed study of atmospheric phenomena not readily possible with other methods. The heterodyne spectral resolution with resolving power greater than 1,000.000 measures the true line shapes of emission and absorption lines in planetary atmospheres. The information on the region of line formation is contained in the line shapes. The absolute frequency of the lines can be measured to I part in 100 ,000,000 and can be used to accurately measure the Doppler frequency shift of the lines, directly measuring the line-of-sight velocity of the gas to --Im/s precision (winds). The technical and analytical methods developed and used to measure and analyze infrared heterodyne measurements will be described. Examples of studies on Titan, Venus, Mars, Earth, and Jupiter will be presented. 'These include atmospheric dynamics on slowly rotating bodies (Titan [2] and Venus [3] and temperature, composition and chemistry on Mars 141, Venus and Earth. The discovery and studies of unique atmospheric phenomena will also be described, such as non-thermal and lasing phenomena on Mars and Venus, mid-infrared aurora on Jupiter [5], and results of small body impacts on Jupiter [6]. The heterodyne technique can also be applied for detailed study of the Earth's stratosphere and mesosphere by measuring trace constituent abundances and temporal and spatial variability as well as winds, which provide information of transport. All ground-based measurements will be described as complementary and supporting studies for on-going and future space missions [7] (Mars Express, Venus Express, Cassini Huygens, JUNO, ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter, and the Europa Jupiter System Mission, an Earth Science Venture Class missions), Proposed instrument and technology development for a space flight infrared heterodyne spectrometer will be described.

Mapping conduction velocity of early embryonic hearts with a robust fitting algorithm

PubMed Central

Gu, Shi; Wang, Yves T; Ma, Pei; Werdich, Andreas A; Rollins, Andrew M; Jenkins, Michael W

2015-01-01

Cardiac conduction maturation is an important and integral component of heart development. Optical mapping with voltage-sensitive dyes allows sensitive measurements of electrophysiological signals over the entire heart. However, accurate measurements of conduction velocity during early cardiac development is typically hindered by low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) measurements of action potentials. Here, we present a novel image processing approach based on least squares optimizations, which enables high-resolution, low-noise conduction velocity mapping of smaller tubular hearts. First, the action potential trace measured at each pixel is fit to a curve consisting of two cumulative normal distribution functions. Then, the activation time at each pixel is determined based on the fit, and the spatial gradient of activation time is determined with a two-dimensional (2D) linear fit over a square-shaped window. The size of the window is adaptively enlarged until the gradients can be determined within a preset precision. Finally, the conduction velocity is calculated based on the activation time gradient, and further corrected for three-dimensional (3D) geometry that can be obtained by optical coherence tomography (OCT). We validated the approach using published activation potential traces based on computer simulations. We further validated the method by adding artificially generated noise to the signal to simulate various SNR conditions using a curved simulated image (digital phantom) that resembles a tubular heart. This method proved to be robust, even at very low SNR conditions (SNR = 2-5). We also established an empirical equation to estimate the maximum conduction velocity that can be accurately measured under different conditions (e.g. sampling rate, SNR, and pixel size). Finally, we demonstrated high-resolution conduction velocity maps of the quail embryonic heart at a looping stage of development. PMID:26114034

Neutral Theory and Rapidly Evolving Viral Pathogens.

PubMed

Frost, Simon D W; Magalis, Brittany Rife; Kosakovsky Pond, Sergei L

2018-06-01

The evolution of viral pathogens is shaped by strong selective forces that are exerted during jumps to new hosts, confrontations with host immune responses and antiviral drugs, and numerous other processes. However, while undeniably strong and frequent, adaptive evolution is largely confined to small parts of information-packed viral genomes, and the majority of observed variation is effectively neutral. The predictions and implications of the neutral theory have proven immensely useful in this context, with applications spanning understanding within-host population structure, tracing the origins and spread of viral pathogens, predicting evolutionary dynamics, and modeling the emergence of drug resistance. We highlight the multiple ways in which the neutral theory has had an impact, which has been accelerated in the age of high-throughput, high-resolution genomics.

A compact permanent magnet cyclotrino for accelerator mass spectrometry

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

Young, A.T.; Clark, D.J.; Kunkel, W.B.

1995-02-01

The authors describe the development of a new instrument for the detection of trace amounts of rare isotopes, a Cyclotron Mass Spectrometer (CMS). A compact low energy cyclotron optimized for high mass resolution has been designed and has been fabricated. The instrument has high sensitivity and is designed to measure carbon-14 at abundances of < 10{sup {minus}12}. A novel feature of the instrument is the use of permanent magnets to energize the iron poles of the cyclotron. The instrument uses axial injection, employing a spiral inflector. The instrument has been assembled and preliminary measurements of the magnetic field show thatmore » it has a uniformity on the order of 2 parts in 10{sup 4}.« less

Advanced infrared astronomy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kostiuk, T.; Deming, Drake; Mumma, M.

1988-01-01

This task supports the application of infrared heterodyne and Fourier transform spectroscopy to ultra-high resolution studies of molecular constituents of planetary astomspheres and cometary comae. High spectral and spatial resolutions are especially useful for detection and study of localized, non-thermal phenomena in low temperature and low density regions, for detection of trace constituents and for measurement of winds and dynamical phenomena such as thermal tides. Measurement and analysis of individual spectial lines permits retrieval of atmospheric molecular abundances and temperatures and thus, information on local photochemical processes. Determination of absolute line positions to better than 10 to the minus eighth power permits direct measurements of gas velocity to a few meters/sec. Observations are made from ground based heterodyne spectrometers at the Kitt Peak McMath solar telescope and from the NASA infrared Telescope Facility on Mauna Kea, Hawaii. Wind velocities at 110km altitude on Venus were extracted approximately 1 m/sec from measurements of non-thermal emission cores of 10.3 micron CO2 lines. Results indicate a subsolar to antisolar circulationwith a small zonal retrograde component.

A high-temperature rf SQUID system for magnetocardiography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zeng, X. H.; Soltner, H.; Selbig, D.; Bode, M.; Bick, M.; Rüders, F.; Schubert, J.; Zander, W.; Banzet, M.; Zhang, Y.; Bousack, H.; Braginski, A. I.

1998-09-01

A first-order axial electronic gradiometer having a baseline of 10 cm was constructed by assembling two 0957-0233/9/9/033/img15 rf SQUID magnetometers with coplanar tank resonators, each having a white magnetic field resolution of about 0957-0233/9/9/033/img16 at 77 K. The gradiometer's near-field resolution was about 0957-0233/9/9/033/img17, including the Dewar flask's noise. A peak-to-peak noise level of 3 pT was obtained in the bandwidth 0.016-250 Hz. Magnetocardiographic (MCG) measurements were performed using this bandwidth. Measurements on human subjects have been conducted in a magnetically shielded room of moderate shielding factor. Using the signal either of the lower magnetometer or of the gradiometer, high-quality heart signal traces could be collected, which were suitable for diagnostic use. A team of physicians, assisted by two of the authors, used the equipment over 10 months to perform MCG measurements in a medical study of about 80 clinical patients with cardiac arrhythmia problems and healthy persons. The system's performance was stable over that whole period.

Tracing the Laacher See Tephra in the varved sediment record of the Trzechowskie palaeolake in central Northern Poland

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wulf, Sabine; Ott, Florian; Słowiński, Michał; Noryśkiewicz, Agnieszka M.; Dräger, Nadine; Martin-Puertas, Celia; Czymzik, Markus; Neugebauer, Ina; Dulski, Peter; Bourne, Anna J.; Błaszkiewicz, Mirosław; Brauer, Achim

2013-09-01

Tephrochronological studies of partly varved sediments of Trzechowskie palaeolake in central Northern Poland led to the finding of the Late Allerød Laacher See Tephra (LST) from the Eifel Volcanic Field for the first time in a very distal site ca 840 km ENE from its volcanic source. The detection of glass shards of the LST involved a comprehensive combination of techniques, i.e. biostratigraphical constrains, high-resolution μ-XRF core scanning and areal μ-XRF mapping of impregnated sediment slabs as well as detailed visual inspection of sediments. The major element chemistry of volcanic glass confirmed the Laacher See Tephra composition in Trzechowskie palaeolake sediments suggesting a deposition from the Middle Laacher See Tephra (MLST-C) or Upper Laacher See Tephra (ULST) dispersal fans. The finding of the LST in this palaeolake enables direct synchronisation with other high-resolution archives in north-central Europe (i.e., Lake Meerfelder Maar, Rehwiese palaeolake) to investigate regional variations of environmental responses at the onset of the Younger Dryas along a West-East transect through north-central Europe.

Whole-body tissue stabilization and selective extractions via tissue-hydrogel hybrids for high-resolution intact circuit mapping and phenotyping

PubMed Central

Treweek, Jennifer B; Deverman, Benjamin E; Greenbaum, Alon; Lignell, Antti; Xiao, Cheng; Cai, Long; Ladinsky, Mark S; Bjorkman, Pamela J; Fowlkes, Charless C; Gradinaru, Viviana

2016-01-01

To facilitate fine-scale phenotyping of whole specimens, we describe here a set of tissue fixation-embedding, detergent-clearing and staining protocols that can be used to transform excised organs and whole organisms into optically transparent samples within 1–2 weeks without compromising their cellular architecture or endogenous fluorescence. PACT (passive CLARITY technique) and PARS (perfusion-assisted agent release in situ) use tissue-hydrogel hybrids to stabilize tissue biomolecules during selective lipid extraction, resulting in enhanced clearing efficiency and sample integrity. Furthermore, the macromolecule permeability of PACT- and PARS-processed tissue hybrids supports the diffusion of immunolabels throughout intact tissue, whereas RIMS (refractive index matching solution) grants high-resolution imaging at depth by further reducing light scattering in cleared and uncleared samples alike. These methods are adaptable to difficult-to-image tissues, such as bone (PACT-deCAL), and to magnified single-cell visualization (ePACT). Together, these protocols and solutions enable phenotyping of subcellular components and tracing cellular connectivity in intact biological networks. PMID:26492141

Genetically targeted 3D visualisation of Drosophila neurons under Electron Microscopy and X-Ray Microscopy using miniSOG

PubMed Central

Ng, Julian; Browning, Alyssa; Lechner, Lorenz; Terada, Masako; Howard, Gillian; Jefferis, Gregory S. X. E.

2016-01-01

Large dimension, high-resolution imaging is important for neural circuit visualisation as neurons have both long- and short-range patterns: from axons and dendrites to the numerous synapses at terminal endings. Electron Microscopy (EM) is the favoured approach for synaptic resolution imaging but how such structures can be segmented from high-density images within large volume datasets remains challenging. Fluorescent probes are widely used to localise synapses, identify cell-types and in tracing studies. The equivalent EM approach would benefit visualising such labelled structures from within sub-cellular, cellular, tissue and neuroanatomical contexts. Here we developed genetically-encoded, electron-dense markers using miniSOG. We demonstrate their ability in 1) labelling cellular sub-compartments of genetically-targeted neurons, 2) generating contrast under different EM modalities, and 3) segmenting labelled structures from EM volumes using computer-assisted strategies. We also tested non-destructive X-ray imaging on whole Drosophila brains to evaluate contrast staining. This enabled us to target specific regions for EM volume acquisition. PMID:27958322

Slaying Hydra: A Python-Based Reduction Pipeline for the Hydra Multi-Object Spectrograph

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seifert, Richard; Mann, Andrew

2018-01-01

We present a Python-based data reduction pipeline for the Hydra Multi-Object Spectrograph on the WIYN 3.5 m telescope, an instrument which enables simultaneous spectroscopy of up to 93 targets. The reduction steps carried out include flat-fielding, dynamic fiber tracing, wavelength calibration, optimal fiber extraction, and sky subtraction. The pipeline also supports the use of sky lines to correct for zero-point offsets between fibers. To account for the moving parts on the instrument and telescope, fiber positions and wavelength solutions are derived in real-time for each dataset. The end result is a one-dimensional spectrum for each target fiber. Quick and fully automated, the pipeline enables on-the-fly reduction while observing, and has been known to outperform the IRAF pipeline by more accurately reproducing known RVs. While Hydra has many configurations in both high- and low-resolution, the pipeline was developed and tested with only one high-resolution mode. In the future we plan to expand the pipeline to work in most commonly used modes.

High-throughput dual-colour precision imaging for brain-wide connectome with cytoarchitectonic landmarks at the cellular level

PubMed Central

Gong, Hui; Xu, Dongli; Yuan, Jing; Li, Xiangning; Guo, Congdi; Peng, Jie; Li, Yuxin; Schwarz, Lindsay A.; Li, Anan; Hu, Bihe; Xiong, Benyi; Sun, Qingtao; Zhang, Yalun; Liu, Jiepeng; Zhong, Qiuyuan; Xu, Tonghui; Zeng, Shaoqun; Luo, Qingming

2016-01-01

The precise annotation and accurate identification of neural structures are prerequisites for studying mammalian brain function. The orientation of neurons and neural circuits is usually determined by mapping brain images to coarse axial-sampling planar reference atlases. However, individual differences at the cellular level likely lead to position errors and an inability to orient neural projections at single-cell resolution. Here, we present a high-throughput precision imaging method that can acquire a co-localized brain-wide data set of both fluorescent-labelled neurons and counterstained cell bodies at a voxel size of 0.32 × 0.32 × 2.0 μm in 3 days for a single mouse brain. We acquire mouse whole-brain imaging data sets of multiple types of neurons and projections with anatomical annotation at single-neuron resolution. The results show that the simultaneous acquisition of labelled neural structures and cytoarchitecture reference in the same brain greatly facilitates precise tracing of long-range projections and accurate locating of nuclei. PMID:27374071

An optimal merging technique for high-resolution precipitation products: OPTIMAL MERGING OF PRECIPITATION METHOD

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

Shrestha, Roshan; Houser, Paul R.; Anantharaj, Valentine G.

2011-04-01

Precipitation products are currently available from various sources at higher spatial and temporal resolution than any time in the past. Each of the precipitation products has its strengths and weaknesses in availability, accuracy, resolution, retrieval techniques and quality control. By merging the precipitation data obtained from multiple sources, one can improve its information content by minimizing these issues. However, precipitation data merging poses challenges of scale-mismatch, and accurate error and bias assessment. In this paper we present Optimal Merging of Precipitation (OMP), a new method to merge precipitation data from multiple sources that are of different spatial and temporal resolutionsmore » and accuracies. This method is a combination of scale conversion and merging weight optimization, involving performance-tracing based on Bayesian statistics and trend-analysis, which yields merging weights for each precipitation data source. The weights are optimized at multiple scales to facilitate multiscale merging and better precipitation downscaling. Precipitation data used in the experiment include products from the 12-km resolution North American Land Data Assimilation (NLDAS) system, the 8-km resolution CMORPH and the 4-km resolution National Stage-IV QPE. The test cases demonstrate that the OMP method is capable of identifying a better data source and allocating a higher priority for them in the merging procedure, dynamically over the region and time period. This method is also effective in filtering out poor quality data introduced into the merging process.« less

The smoke episode in Buenos Aires, 15-20 April 2008

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Berbery, Ernesto Hugo; Ciappesoni, Hector C.; Kalnay, Eugenia

2008-11-01

The smoke that affected the city of Buenos Aires and its suburbs (approximate population, 13M) in mid April 2008 was an extreme event without historical precedent. The episode resulted in an increase of health problems among the population (respiratory problems, eye irritation) and, due to poor visibility, led to hazardous driving conditions and accidents that forced the intermittent closure of major highways. The origin of the smoke was traced to pasture burning in the La Plata River delta, to the northwest of Buenos Aires. Unfortunately, the increased shifting of livestock to the La Plata River delta may result in more common smoke episodes due to associated biomass burning practices. We clarify the mechanisms that resulted in this extreme episode, including the contribution of the La Plata River local circulations to the intensity of the event. We further show its high predictability using high resolution regional model simulations and forecasts. Our results suggest that a high resolution regional model could be used to monitor and predict several days in advance the atmospheric transport of smoke. These results could have policy implications, as preventive measures on biomass burning could be put in effect when smoke from the fires is predicted to affect a densely populated area.

Applications of Cavity-Enhanced Direct Frequency Comb Spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cossel, Kevin C.; Adler, Florian; Maslowski, Piotr; Ye, Jun

2010-06-01

Cavity-enhanced direct frequency comb spectroscopy (CE-DFCS) is a unique technique that provides broad bandwidth, high resolution, and ultra-high detection sensitivities. This is accomplished by combining a femtosecond laser based optical frequency comb with an enhancement cavity and a broadband, multichannel imaging system. These systems are capable of simultaneously recording many terahertz of spectral bandwidth with sub-gigahertz resolution and absorption sensitivities of 1×10-7 cm-1 Hz-1/2. In addition, the ultrashort pulses enable efficient nonlinear processes, which makes it possible to reach spectral regions that are difficult to access with conventional laser sources. We will present an application of CE-DFCS for trace impurity detection in the semiconductor processing gas arsine near 1.8 μm and the development of a high-power, mid-infrared frequency comb for breath analysis in the 2.8-4.8 μm region. M. J. Thorpe, K. D. Moll, R. J. Jones, B. Safdi, and J. Ye. Science 311, 1595-1599 (2006) F. Adler, M. J. Thorpe, K. C. Cossel, and J. Ye. Annu. Rev. Anal. Chem. 3, 175-205 (2010) F. Adler, K. C. Cossel, M. J. Thorpe, I. Hartl, M. E. Fermann, and J. Ye. Opt. Lett. 34, 1330-1332 (2009)

Development of a metrological atomic force microscope with a tip-tilting mechanism for 3D nanometrology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kizu, Ryosuke; Misumi, Ichiko; Hirai, Akiko; Kinoshita, Kazuto; Gonda, Satoshi

2018-07-01

A metrological atomic force microscope with a tip-tilting mechanism (tilting-mAFM) has been developed to expand the capabilities of 3D nanometrology, particularly for high-resolution topography measurements at the surfaces of vertical sidewalls and for traceable measurements of nanodevice linewidth. In the tilting-mAFM, the probe tip is tilted from vertical to 16° at maximum such that the probe tip can touch and trace the vertical sidewall of a nanometer-scale structure; the probe of a conventional atomic force microscope cannot reach the vertical surface because of its finite cone angle. Probe displacement is monitored in three axes by using high-resolution laser interferometry, which is traceable to the SI unit of length. A central-symmetric 3D scanner with a parallel spring structure allows probe scanning with extremely low interaxial crosstalk. A unique technique for scanning vertical sidewalls was also developed and applied. The experimental results indicated high repeatability in the scanned profiles and sidewall angle measurements. Moreover, the 3D measurement of a line pattern was demonstrated, and the data from both sidewalls were successfully stitched together with subnanometer accuracy. Finally, the critical dimension of the line pattern was obtained.

Grizzly Valley fault system, Sierra Valley, CA

USGS Publications Warehouse

Gold, Ryan; Stephenson, William; Odum, Jack; Briggs, Rich; Crone, Anthony; Angster, Steve

2012-01-01

The Grizzly Valley fault system (GVFS) strikes northwestward across Sierra Valley, California and is part of a network of active, dextral strike-slip faults in the northern Walker Lane (Figure 1). To investigate Quaternary motion across the GVFS, we analyzed high-resolution (0.25 m) airborne LiDAR data (Figure 2) in combination with six, high-resolution, P-wave, seismic-reflection profiles [Gold and others, 2012]. The 0.5- to 2.0-km-long seismic-reflection profiles were sited orthogonal to suspected tectonic lineaments identified from previous mapping and our analysis of airborne LiDAR data. To image the upper 400–700 m of subsurface stratigraphy of Sierra Valley (Figure 3), we used a 230-kg accelerated weight drop source. Geophone spacing ranged from 2 to 5 m and shots were co-located with the geophones. The profiles reveal a highly reflective, deformed basal marker that we interpret to be the top of Tertiary volcanic rocks, overlain by a 120- to 300-m-thick suite of subhorizontal reflectors we interpret as Plio-Pleistocene lacustrine deposits. Three profiles image the principle active trace of the GVFS, which is a steeply dipping fault zone that offsets the volcanic rocks and the basin fill (Figures 4 & 5).

Absorption line metrology by optical feedback frequency-stabilized cavity ring-down spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burkart, Johannes; Kassi, Samir

2015-04-01

Optical feedback frequency-stabilized cavity ring-down spectroscopy (OFFS-CRDS) is a near-shot-noise-limited technique combining a sensitivity of with a highly linear frequency axis and sub-kHz resolution. Here, we give an in-depth review of the key elements of the experimental setup encompassing a highly stable V-shaped reference cavity, an integrated Mach-Zehnder modulator and a tightly locked ring-down cavity with a finesse of 450,000. Carrying out a detailed analysis of the spectrometer performance and its limitations, we revisit the photo-electron shot-noise limit in CRDS and discuss the impact of optical fringes. We demonstrate different active schemes for fringe cancelation by varying the phase of parasitic reflections. The proof-of-principle experiments reported here include a broadband high-resolution spectrum of carbon dioxide at 1.6 µm and an isolated line-shape measurement with a signal-to-noise ratio of 80,000. Beyond laboratory-based absorption line metrology for fundamental research, OFFS-CRDS holds a considerable potential for field laser measurements of trace gas concentrations and isotopic ratios by virtue of its small sample volume and footprint, the robust cavity-locking scheme and supreme precision.

Remote Sensing of Tropospheric Pollution from Space

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fishman, Jack; Bowman, Kevin W.; Burrows, John P.; Chance, Kelly V.; Edwards, David P.; Martin, Randall V.; Morris, Gary A.; Pierce, R. Bradley; Ziemke, Jerald R.; Al-Saadi, Jassim A.;

Optical Physics Study of Laser Interactions with Solids for Ultra-Trace Materials Analysis Using RIS. Phase 1.

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-04-24

eliminated. Averaging the mass spectra from only 500 laser shots (50 seconds with this system) resulted in a detection limit of r15 ppb. The...resolution. Fluctuations in laser pulse energy from shot to shot appear as noise in the interleaved data, but averaging of several such traces gives a good...ranging from 0to 120 ix Wm- 2. quantity of material volatilized was proportional to the number of lase shots . A simple time-of-flight mass spectrometer was

Atmospheric, Climatic, and Environmental Research

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Broecker, Wallace S.; Gornitz, Vivien M.

1994-01-01

The climate and atmospheric modeling project involves analysis of basic climate processes, with special emphasis on studies of the atmospheric CO2 and H2O source/sink budgets and studies of the climatic role Of CO2, trace gases and aerosols. These studies are carried out, based in part on use of simplified climate models and climate process models developed at GISS. The principal models currently employed are a variable resolution 3-D general circulation model (GCM), and an associated "tracer" model which simulates the advection of trace constituents using the winds generated by the GCM.

Low earth orbiting Nadir Etalon Sounding Spectrometer instrument concept for temperature, moisture and trace species, LeoNESS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kumer, J. B.; Sterritt, L. W.; Roche, A. E.; Rosenberg, W. J.; Morrow, H. E.; Shenk, W. E.; Susskind, J.

1992-01-01

A concept for a low earth orbiting nadir etalon spectrometer sounder (LeoNESS) is described which can achieve retrieval of temperature, H2O, surface, boundary conditions, cloudiness, and trace species with an accuracy that meets or exceeds the AIRS specifications. Options employing 65-K and 30-K detectors are examined; the former may be implemented via passive radiative cooling. The concept, which is derived from the Cryogenic Limb Array Etalon Spectrometer, has the potential for improving the horizontal and vertical resolution.

In vivo monitoring of multiple trace metals in the brain extracellular fluid of anesthetized rats by microdialysis-membrane desalter-ICPMS.

PubMed

Chung, Y T; Ling, Y C; Yang, C S; Sun, Y C; Lee, P L; Lin, C Y; Hong, C C; Yang, M H

2007-12-01

We have developed an on-line analytical system involving microdialysis (MD) sampling, a carbohydrate membrane desalter (CMD), and an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICPMS) system for the simultaneous determination of multiple trace metals in the extracellular fluid (ECF) in the brains of anesthetized rats. The microdialysate that perfused from the animal at a flow rate of 0.5 microL/min was on-line transferred to the CMD to remove the high-sodium matrix, followed by ICPMS measurement. The role of the CMD in this on-line system was investigated in detail. With prior addition of EDTA to the microdialysate to form anionic complexes of the metal analytes and the use of NH4Cl as a regenerant to exchange Na(+) with NH4(+) ions, both quantitative recovery of the trace metal analytes and quantitative removal of the sodium matrix could be achieved. Two experimental modes of the monitoring system were constructed. For those metals (e.g., Cu, Zn, and Mn) that existed at (sub)nanogram-per-milliliter concentrations in the microdialysate, the temporal resolution was 10 min when using a 10 microL loop for sample collection, followed by CMD and ICPMS; for those elements (e.g., Ca and Mg) that existed at microgram-per-milliliter levels (or greater), near-real-time analysis was possible because the microdialysate could be led, bypassing the sample loop, directly to the CMD for desalting without any time delay. Further improvement of the temporal resolution for the low-concentration elements was not possible without decreasing the detection limits of mass detection. Among the eight trace metals tested using this on-line system, the method detection limits for Cu, Zn, Mn, Co, Ni, and Pb reached subnanogram-per-milliliter levels; for electrolyte species such as Ca and Mg, the detection limits were in the range of 50-100 ng/mL. Analytical accuracy, expressed as spike recovery, was 100% +/- 15% for all of the elements tested. We demonstrate the applicability of the proposed system through the successful measurement of the basal values of Ca, Mg, Cu, Zn, and Mn in the ECF of a living rat brain and through in vivo monitoring of the concentration profiles of Mn and Pt in the ECF after the injection of drugs (MnCl2 and cisplatin) into the rats. This microdialysis system is the first to offer real-time, in vivo monitoring of trace elements such as Ca and Mg.

Holocene climate variability in Texas, USA: An integration of existing paleoclimate data and modeling with a new, high-resolution speleothem record

USGS Publications Warehouse

Wong, Corinne I.; Banner, Jay L.; Musgrove, MaryLynn

2015-01-01

Delineating the climate processes governing precipitation variability in drought-prone Texas is critical for predicting and mitigating climate change effects, and requires the reconstruction of past climate beyond the instrumental record. We synthesize existing paleoclimate proxy data and climate simulations to provide an overview of climate variability in Texas during the Holocene. Conditions became progressively warmer and drier transitioning from the early to mid Holocene, culminating between 7 and 3 ka (thousand years ago), and were more variable during the late Holocene. The timing and relative magnitude of Holocene climate variability, however, is poorly constrained owing to considerable variability among the different records. To help address this, we present a new speleothem (NBJ) reconstruction from a central Texas cave that comprises the highest resolution proxy record to date, spanning the mid to late Holocene. NBJ trace-element concentrations indicate variable moisture conditions with no clear temporal trend. There is a decoupling between NBJ growth rate, trace-element concentrations, and δ18O values, which indicate that (i) the often direct relation between speleothem growth rate and moisture availability is likely complicated by changes in the overlying ecosystem that affect subsurface CO2 production, and (ii) speleothem δ18O variations likely reflect changes in moisture source (i.e., proportion of Pacific-vs. Gulf of Mexico-derived moisture) that appear not to be linked to moisture amount.

X-ray fluorescence microscopy reveals the role of selenium in spermatogenesis

PubMed Central

Kehr, Sebastian; Malinouski, Mikalai; Finney, Lydia; Vogt, Stefan; Labunskyy, Vyacheslav M.; Kasaikina, Marina V.; Carlson, Bradley A.; Zhou, You; Hatfield, Dolph L.; Gladyshev, Vadim N.

2009-01-01

Selenium (Se) is a trace element with important roles in human health. Several selenoproteins have essential functions in development. However, the cellular and tissue distribution of Se remains largely unknown because of the lack of analytical techniques that image this element with sufficient sensitivity and resolution. Herein, we report that X-ray fluorescence microscopy (XFM) can be used to visualize and quantify the tissue, cellular and subcellular topography of Se. We applied this technique to characterize the role of Se in spermatogenesis and identified a dramatic Se enrichment specifically in late spermatids, a pattern that was not seen in any other elemental maps. This enrichment was due to elevated levels of the mitochondrial form of glutathione peroxidase 4 and was fully dependent on the supplies of Se by Selenoprotein P. High-resolution scans revealed that Se concentrated near the lumen side of elongating spermatids, where structural components of sperm are formed. During spermatogenesis, maximal Se associated with decreased phosphorus, whereas Zn did not change. In sperm, Se was primarily in the midpiece and co-localized with Cu and Fe. XFM allowed quantification of Se in the midpiece (0.8 fg) and head (0.14 fg) of individual sperm cells, revealing the ability of sperm cells to handle the amounts of this element well above its toxic levels. Overall, the use of XFM allowed visualization of tissue and cellular Se and provided important insights in the role of this and other trace elements in spermatogenesis. PMID:19379757

A critical evaluation of liquid chromatography with hybrid linear ion trap-Orbitrap mass spectrometry for the determination of acidic contaminants in wastewater effluents.

PubMed

Cahill, Michael G; Dineen, Brian A; Stack, Mary A; James, Kevin J

2012-12-28

Acidic pesticide and pharmaceutical contaminants were pre-concentrated and extracted from wastewater samples (500 mL) using solid-phase extraction. Analyte recoveries were 79-96%, with % RSD values in the range, 1.7-7.4%. Analyte identification and quantification were carried out using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) with hybrid linear ion trap (LIT) Orbitrap instrumentation. Using a resolution setting of 30,000 FWHM, full-scan MS analysis was performed using heated electrospray ionization (HESI) in negative mode. The high mass resolution capabilities of the Orbitrap MS were exploited for the determination of trace contaminants allowing facile discrimination between analytes and matrix. The dependant scan functions of the Orbitrap MS using higher collisional dissociation (HCD) and LIT MS were evaluated for the confirmation of analytes at trace concentration levels. Mass accuracy for target contaminants using this method was less than 2 ppm. The limits of quantitation (LOQs) were in the range, 2.1-27 ng/L. The inter-day accuracy and precision were measured over a five-day period at two concentrations. The % relative errors were in the range, 0.30-7.7%, and the % RSD values were in the range, 1.5-5.5%. Using this method, 2,4-D, mecoprop, ibuprofen, naproxene and gemfibrozil were identified in several wastewater treatment plants in Ireland. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of myocardial defect detection between parallel-hole and fan-beam SPECT using the Hotelling trace

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wollenweber, S. D.; Tsui, B. M. W.; Lalush, D. S.; Frey, E. C.; Gullberg, G. T.

1998-08-01

The objective of this study was to implement the Hotelling trace (HT) to evaluate the potential increase in defect detection in myocardial SPECT using high-resolution fan-beam (HRF) versus parallel-hole (HRP) collimation and compare results to a previously reported human observer study (G.K. Gregoriou et al., ibid., vol. 42, p. 1267-75, 1995). Projection data from the 3D MCAT torso phantom were simulated including the effects of attenuation, collimator-detector response blurring and scatter. Poisson noise fluctuations were then simulated. The HRP and HRF collimators had the same spatial resolution at 20 cm. The total counts in the projection data sets were proportional to the detection efficiencies of the collimators and on the order of that found in clinical Tc-99m studies. In six left-ventricular defect locations, the HT found for HRF was superior to that for HRP collimation. For HRF collimation, the HT was calculated for reconstructed images using 64/spl times/64, 128/spl times/128 and 192/spl times/192 grid sizes. The results demonstrate substantial improvement in myocardial defect detection when the grid size was increased from 64/spl times/64 to 128/spl times/128 and slight improvement from 128/spl times/128 to 192/spl times/192. Also, the performance of the Hotelling observer in terms of the HT at the different grid sizes correlates at better than 0.95 to that found in human observers in a previously reported observer experiment and ROC study.

Digitization Procedures of Analogue Seismograms from the Adam Dziewonski Observatory (HRV) at Harvard, MA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Torpey, M.; Ishii, M.

2010-12-01

This project explores methods of digitization of analogue seismic recordings for better preservation and to facilitate data distribution to the community. Different techniques are investigated using seismograms from one particular station, the Adam Dziewonski Observatory (HRV) at Harvard, Massachusetts. This seismological station, still in operation as a part of the Global Seismographic Network today, is one of the oldest stations in the United States. The station was built in 1933, and since its installation, the station has produced approximately 16,000 analogue seismograms. The majority of these recordings were taken between 1933 and 1953, with some intermittent recordings between 1962 and 1998 after digital seismometers had become a standard. These analogue seismograms have the potential of expanding the database for seismological research such as identification of events previously not catalogued. Due to poor storage environment at the station, some of the records, especially those on regular type of paper, are damaged beyond repair. Nevertheless, many of the records on photographic paper are in better condition, and we have focused on a subset of these recordings that are least damaged. Even these seismograms require cleaning and, in consultation with the Weissman Preservation Center of Harvard Library, preparation techniques for the photographic records are examined. After the seismograms are cleaned and flattened, three different equipments are investigated for digitization, i.e., a copy machine, scanner, and camera. These instruments allow different imaging resolutions, ranging from 200 dots per inch (dpi) to 800 dpi. The image resolution and the bit depth have a wide range of implications that are closely linked to the digitization program one chooses to convert the image to time series. We explore three different software for this conversion, SeisDig (Bromirski and Chuang, 2003), Teseo2 (Pintore and Quintiliani, 2008), and NeuraLog (www.neuralog.com), and determine advantages and disadvantages associated with each software. One of the important features of the software is the automatic tracing algorithms. The success of the automatic tracing depends upon many factors, and this is examined using examples from long and short period recordings with high amplitude (thin and fading lines), and long and short period recordings with low amplitude (well-defined lines). Automatically traced data are also compared to manually traced samples. Based upon these results, we propose a set of procedures and recommendations for cleaning, imaging scheme including resolution and bit depth, and digitization software. Ultimately, we would like to outline a robust procedure for mass seismogram digitization and process all the Harvard station recordings and make them available to the community through the IRIS Data Management Center.

Flux Analysis of Free Amino Sugars and Amino Acids in Soils by Isotope Tracing with a Novel Liquid Chromatography/High Resolution Mass Spectrometry Platform

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

Soil fluxomics analysis can provide pivotal information for understanding soil biochemical pathways and their regulation, but direct measurement methods are rare. Here, we describe an approach to measure soil extracellular metabolite (amino sugar and amino acid) concentrations and fluxes based on a 15N isotope pool dilution technique via liquid chromatography and high-resolution mass spectrometry. We produced commercially unavailable 15N and 13C labeled amino sugars and amino acids by hydrolyzing peptidoglycan isolated from isotopically labeled bacterial biomass and used them as tracers (15N) and internal standards (13C). High-resolution (Orbitrap Exactive) MS with a resolution of 50 000 allowed us to separate different stable isotope labeled analogues across a large range of metabolites. The utilization of 13C internal standards greatly improved the accuracy and reliability of absolute quantification. We successfully applied this method to two types of soils and quantified the extracellular gross fluxes of 2 amino sugars, 18 amino acids, and 4 amino acid enantiomers. Compared to the influx and efflux rates of most amino acids, similar ones were found for glucosamine, indicating that this amino sugar is released through peptidoglycan and chitin decomposition and serves as an important nitrogen source for soil microorganisms. d-Alanine and d-glutamic acid derived from peptidoglycan decomposition exhibited similar turnover rates as their l-enantiomers. This novel approach offers new strategies to advance our understanding of the production and transformation pathways of soil organic N metabolites, including the unknown contributions of peptidoglycan and chitin decomposition to soil organic N cycling. PMID:28776982

Old high resolution satellite images for landscape archaeology: case studies from Turkey and Iraq

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Scardozzi, Giuseppe

2008-10-01

The paper concerns the contribution for Landscape Archaeology from satellite images of 1960s and 1970s, very useful when old aerial photographs are scarce. Particularly, the study concerns the panchromatic photos taken by USA reconnaissance satellites from 1963 to 1972, declassified for civil use in 1995 and 2002, that in the last years are very used in the archaeological research; in fact, a lot of these images have an high geometric resolution, about between 2.74 and 1.83 m (Corona KH-4A and KH-4B), and some have a ground resolution about between 1.20 and 0.60 m (Gambit KH-7). These satellite images allow to examine very in detail ancient urban areas and territories that later are changed or partially destroyed; so, it is possible to detect and examine ancient structures, palaeo-environmental elements and archaeological traces of buried features now not visible. The paper presents some exemplificative cases study in Turkey and Iraq, in which the analysis of these images has made a fundamental contribution to the archaeological researches: particularly, for the reconstruction of the urban layout of the ancient city of Hierapolis of Phrygia and for the surveys in its territory, and for the study of the ancient topography of some archaeological sites of Iraq. In this second case, the research is gained in the context of the Iraq Virtual Museum Project; the comparison with recent high resolution satellite images (Ikonos-2, QuickBird-2, WorldView-1) also provide a fundamental tool for monitoring archaeological areas and for an evaluation of the situation after the first and the second Gulf War.

Thermal-chemical Mantle Convection Models With Adaptive Mesh Refinement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leng, W.; Zhong, S.

2008-12-01

In numerical modeling of mantle convection, resolution is often crucial for resolving small-scale features. New techniques, adaptive mesh refinement (AMR), allow local mesh refinement wherever high resolution is needed, while leaving other regions with relatively low resolution. Both computational efficiency for large- scale simulation and accuracy for small-scale features can thus be achieved with AMR. Based on the octree data structure [Tu et al. 2005], we implement the AMR techniques into the 2-D mantle convection models. For pure thermal convection models, benchmark tests show that our code can achieve high accuracy with relatively small number of elements both for isoviscous cases (i.e. 7492 AMR elements v.s. 65536 uniform elements) and for temperature-dependent viscosity cases (i.e. 14620 AMR elements v.s. 65536 uniform elements). We further implement tracer-method into the models for simulating thermal-chemical convection. By appropriately adding and removing tracers according to the refinement of the meshes, our code successfully reproduces the benchmark results in van Keken et al. [1997] with much fewer elements and tracers compared with uniform-mesh models (i.e. 7552 AMR elements v.s. 16384 uniform elements, and ~83000 tracers v.s. ~410000 tracers). The boundaries of the chemical piles in our AMR code can be easily refined to the scales of a few kilometers for the Earth's mantle and the tracers are concentrated near the chemical boundaries to precisely trace the evolvement of the boundaries. It is thus very suitable for our AMR code to study the thermal-chemical convection problems which need high resolution to resolve the evolvement of chemical boundaries, such as the entrainment problems [Sleep, 1988].

Liquid extraction surface analysis (LESA) of food surfaces employing chip-based nano-electrospray mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Eikel, Daniel; Henion, Jack

2011-08-30

An automated surface-sampling technique called liquid extraction surface analysis (LESA), coupled with infusion nano-electrospray high-resolution mass spectrometry and tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS), is described and applied to the qualitative determination of surface chemical residues resulting from the artificial spraying of selected fresh fruits and vegetables with representative pesticides. Each of the targeted pesticides was readily detected with both high-resolution and full-scan collision-induced dissociation (CID) mass spectra. In the case of simazine and sevin, a mass resolution of 100,000 was insufficient to distinguish the isobaric protonated molecules for these compounds. When the surface of a spinach leaf was analyzed by LESA, trace levels of diazinon were readily detected on the spinach purchased directly from a supermarket before they were sprayed with the five-pesticide mixture. A 30 s rinse under hot running tap water appeared to quantitatively remove all remaining residues of this pesticide. Diazinon was readily detected by LESA analysis on the skin of the artificially sprayed spinach. Finally, incurred pyrimethanil at a level of 169 ppb in a batch slurry of homogenized apples was analyzed by LESA and this pesticide was readily detected by both high-resolution mass spectrometry and full-scan CID mass spectrometry, thus showing that pesticides may also be detected in whole fruit homogenized samples. This report shows that representative pesticides on fruit and vegetable surfaces present at levels 20-fold below generally allowed EPA tolerance levels are readily detected and confirmed by the title technologies making LESA-MS as interesting screening method for food safety purposes. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Characterizing a gravitational lens in the molecular Einstein ring SMG 18423+5938

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carilli, Chris

2011-10-01

We propose a single orbit exposure of the strongly lensed submm galaxy {SMG}, MM18423+5938, using WFC3 110W. MM1842 is the brightest SMG with a published spectroscopic redshift {z = 3.9296}, and has an apparent star formation rate of order 1e4 Mo/yr. Recent EVLA observations reveal a complete Einstein ring for the CO emission, confirming the strong lensing hypothesis for MM1842. Using the CFHT, we have identified the lensing galaxy at the center of the CO ring, with z_phot 1.0. MM1842 is the archetype, and best studied, of the new population of strongly lensed SMGs that have recently been identified in shallow, wide field submm surveys. These systems represent the formation of massive galaxies at high redshift in luminous starburst events. MM1842 presents a unique opportunity to study the physical processes involved in early galaxy formation at unprecedented physical resolution. The goal of this modest HST request is to obtain detailed information on the stellar distribution in the lensing galaxy. Such information is fundamental to accurate lens modeling of the system, as has been clearly demonstrated with the CASTLES HST survey. In parallel, we are performing high resolution imaging {0.1"} of the very luminous CO, atomic fine structure line, and dust continuum emission from MM1842 with the EVLA and IRAM PdBI. Using the lens model, we can then trace back the gas distribution and dynamics in the source-plane at an effective physical resolution approaching 100pc. The proposed HST observations are crucial to constrain the lens model, and thereby enable a truly breath-taking, high physical resolution study of massive galaxy formation in the early Universe.

Capillary electrophoresis for drug analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lurie, Ira S.

1999-02-01

Capillary electrophoresis (CE) is a high resolution separation technique which is amenable to a wide variety of solutes, including compounds which are thermally degradable, non-volatile and highly polar, and is therefore well suited for drug analysis. Techniques which have been used in our laboratory include electrokinetic chromatography (ECC), free zone electrophoresis (CZE) and capillary electrochromatography (CEC). ECC, which uses a charged run buffer additive which migrates counter to osmotic flow, is excellent for many applications, including, drug screening and analyses of heroin, cocaine and methamphetamine samples. ECC approaches include the use of micelles and charged cyclodextrins, which allow for the separation of complex mixtures. Simultaneous separation of acidic, neutral and basic solutes and the resolution of optical isomers and positional isomers are possible. CZE has been used for the analysis of small ions (cations and anions) in heroin exhibits. For the ECC and CZE experiments performed in our laboratory, uncoated capillaries were used. In contrast, CEC uses capillaries packed with high performance liquid chromatography stationary phases, and offers both high peak capacities and unique selectivities. Applications include the analysis of cannabinoids and drug screening. Although CE suffers from limited concentration sensitivity, it is still applicable to trace analysis of drug samples, especially when using injection techniques such as stacking, or detection schemes such as laser induced fluorescence and extended pathlength UV.

To the Application of LiDAR to Detect the Geological Structures in Sulphurets Property, British Columbia, Canada

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koohzare, A.; Rezaeian, M.; McIntosh, A.

2009-05-01

The Kerr Sulphurets property in North Western British Columbia has been explored primarily as a placer gold holding since the 1880s; and, potentially includes one of Canada's largest gold deposits (e.g. the Mitchell Zone). The Sulphurets camp has been classified by Taylor in 2007 as a prominent global epithermal high-sulphidation subtype with 10 million tonnes of ore (reserves + production) containing approximately 10 g/t gold. The geological and geophysical observations of this deposit indicate intrusion- related mineralized veins which are known to overlap as the result of structural complexities. Faulting predates mineralization and alteration and dramatically dominates the location of the mineralization for this porphyry- epithermal high-sulphidation deposit (Britton and Alldrick 1988, British Columbia Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources, 1992; Margolis, 1993). However, the surface trace of these structures and lineaments within the site is obscured by vegetation, glacial cover and steep topographic relief. We used high resolution LiDAR airborne bare-earth sensing (vegetative data deleted) in an effort to detect the surface geological features and lineaments in the Kerr Sulphurets site. The LiDAR flight was designed to acquire high density data with 2 points per square meter using a 150 kHz multipulse system. High resolution LiDAR data provides a level of detail not achievable by other digital terrain modelling techniques, whether extracted from aerial photography, low-resolution topographic contour maps, 10-30 meter USGS, or SRTM digital elevation models. LiDAR bare-earth data spectacularly revealed hidden geological structures within the property district, which in turn assisted in identifying the high potential zones for mineralization in Sulphurets.

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

Ellis, J.E.; Swift, D.M.; Hart, T.C.

Landsat multi-spectral scanner (MSS) imagery was used to develop a vegetation type-biomass map of the 84,000 Km/sup 2/ Turkana District, Kenya. NOAA satellite advanced very high resolution radiometry (AVHRR) imagery was overlaid on the MSS map to trace the seasonal and annual dynamics of vegetation communities used by Turkana pastoral nomads, 1981-1984. Four regions (sub-sectional territories) were compared with respect to peak herbaceous biomass, woody canopy cover, and seasonal fluxes in total green biomass. Results demonstrated major variations among regions and between wet and dry season ranges within regions. Pastoral land use patterns appear to minimize effects of seasonal vegetationmore » fluxes on livestock herds.« less

Mesures spectroscopiques de constituants et de polluants atmosphériques par techniques in situ et à distance, au sol ou embarquéesSpectroscopic measurements of atmospheric constituents and pollutants by in situ and remote techniques from the ground and in flight

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Camy-Peyret, Claude; Payan, Sébastien; Jeseck, Pascal; Té, Yao

2001-09-01

Infrared spectroscopy is a powerful tool for precise measurements of atmospheric trace species concentrations through the use of characteristic spectral signatures of the different molecular species and their associated vibration-rotation bands in the mid- or near-infrared. Different methods based on quantitative spectroscopy permit tropospheric or stratospheric measurements: in situ long path absorption, atmospheric absorption/emission by Fourier transform spectroscopy with high spectral resolution instruments on the ground, airborne, balloon-borne or satellite-borne.

Fast scanning photoretinoscope for measuring peripheral refraction as a function of accommodation.

PubMed

Tabernero, Juan; Schaeffel, Frank

2009-10-01

A new device was designed to provide fast measurements (4 s) of the peripheral refraction (90 degrees central horizontal field). Almost-continuous traces are obtained with high angular resolution (0.4 degrees) while the subject is fixating a central stimulus. Three-dimensional profiles can also be measured. The peripheral refractions in 10 emmetropic subjects were studied as a function of accommodation (200 cm, 50 cm, and 25 cm viewing distances). Peripheral refraction profiles were largely preserved during accommodation but were different in each individual. Apparently, the accommodating lens changes its focal length evenly over the central 90 degrees of the visual field.

Remote Sensing Studies Of The Current Martian Climate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Taylor, F. W.; McCleese, D. J.; Schofield, J. T.; Calcutt, S. B.; Moroz, V. I.

A systematic and detailed experimental study of the Martian atmosphere remains to be carried out, despite many decades of intense interest in the nature of the Martian climate system, its interactions, variability and long-term stability. Such a study is planned by the 2005 Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, using limb-scanning infrared radiometric techniques similar to those used to study trace species in the terrestrial stratosphere. For Mars, the objectives are temperature, humidity, dust and condensate abundances with high vertical resolution and global coverage in the 0 to 80 km height range. The paper will discuss the experiment and its methodology and expectations for the results.

Non-volatile analysis in fruits by laser resonant ionization spectrometry: application to resveratrol (3,5,4'-trihydroxystilbene) in grapes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Montero, C.; Orea, J. M.; Soledad Muñoz, M.; Lobo, R. F. M.; González Ureña, A.

A laser desorption (LD) coupled with resonance-enhanced multiphoton ionisation (REMPI) and time-of-flight mass spectrometry (TOFMS) technique for non-volatile trace analysis compounds is presented. Essential features are: (a) an enhanced desorption yield due to the mixing of metal powder with the analyte in the sample preparation, (b) a high resolution, great sensitivity and low detection limit due to laser resonant ionisation and mass spectrometry detection. Application to resveratrol content in grapes demonstrated the capability of the analytical method with a sensitivity of 0.2 pg per single laser shot and a detection limit of 5 ppb.

Relation of the spectroscopic reflectance of olivine to mineral chemistry and some remote sensing implications.

USGS Publications Warehouse

King, T.V.V.; Ridley, W.I.

1987-01-01

Using high-resolution visible and near-infrared diffuse spectral reflectance, systematically investigates apparent wavelength shifts as a function of mineral chemistry in the Fe/Mg olivine series from Fo11 to Fo91. The study also shows that trace amounts of nickel can be spectrally detected in the olivine structure. Significant spectral variation as a function of grain size is also demonstrated, adding a further complication to the interpretation of remotely sensed data from olivine-rich surfaces. Some permutations of Fe-Mg-Ni relations in olivines are discussed as they apply to the interpretation of asteroid surfaces and other extraterrestrial bodies. -from Authors

A novel method for tracing the movement of multiple individual soil particles under rainfall conditions using florescent videography.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hardy, Robert; Pates, Jackie; Quinton, John

2016-04-01

The importance of developing new techniques to study soil movement cannot be underestimated especially those that integrate new technology. Currently there are limited empirical data available about the movement of individual soil particles, particularly high quality time-resolved data. Here we present a new technique which allows multiple individual soil particles to be traced in real time under simulated rainfall conditions. The technique utilises fluorescent videography in combination with a fluorescent soil tracer, which is based on natural particles. The system has been successfully used on particles greater than ~130 micrometres diameter. The technique uses HD video shot at 50 frames per second, providing extremely high temporal (0.02 s) and spatial resolution (sub-millimetre) of a particle's location without the need to perturb the system. Once the tracer has been filmed then the images are processed and analysed using a particle analysis and visualisation toolkit written in python. The toolkit enables the creation of 2 and 3-D time-resolved graphs showing the location of 1 or more particles. Quantitative numerical analysis of a pathway (or collection of pathways) is also possible, allowing parameters such as particle speed and displacement to be assessed. Filming the particles removes the need to destructively sample material and has many side-benefits, reducing the time, money and effort expended in the collection, transport and laboratory analysis of soils, while delivering data in a digital form which is perfect for modern computer-driven analysis techniques. There are many potential applications for the technique. High resolution empirical data on how soil particles move could be used to create, parameterise and evaluate soil movement models, particularly those that use the movement of individual particles. As data can be collected while rainfall is occurring it may offer the ability to study systems under dynamic conditions(rather than rainfall of a constant intensity), which are more realistic and this was one motivations behind the development of this technique.

Identifying Metals as Marker for Waste Burning Aerosol Particles in New Delhi

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumar, Sudhanshu

2012-07-01

{Identifying Metals as Marker for Waste Burning Aerosol Particles in New Delhi } Tracing of aerosol sources is an important task helpful for making control strategy, and for climate change study. However, it is a difficult job as aerosols have several sources, involve in complex atmospheric processing, degradation and removal processes. Several approaches have been used for this task, e.g., models, which are based on the input of chemical species; stable- and radio-isotope compositions of certain species; chemical markers in which trace metals are the better options because they persist in atmosphere until the life of a particle. For example, K and Hg are used for biomass and coal burning tracings, respectively. Open waste burning has recently been believed to be a considerable source of aerosols in several mega cities in India and China. To better understand this source contribution in New Delhi aerosols, we have conducted aerosol sampling at a landfill site (Okhla), and in proximity (within 1 km distance) of this site. Aerosol filter samples were acid digested in microwave digestion system and analyzed using inductively coupled plasma -- high resolution mass spectrometry (ICP-HRMS) for getting metal signatures in particles. The metals, e.g., Sn, Sb and As those are found almost negligible in remote aerosols, are maximized in these waste burning aerosols. Sample collected in other location of New Delhi also shows the considerable presence of these metals in particles. Preliminary studies of isotopic ratios of these metals suggested that these metals, especially Sn can be used as marker for tracing the open waste burning sources of aerosols in New Delhi.

Non-destructive trace element microanalysis of as-received cometary nucleus samples using synchrotron x ray fluorescence

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sutton, S. R.

1989-01-01

The Synchrotron X ray Fluorescence (SXRF) microprobe at the National Synchrotron Light Source (NSLS), Brookhaven National Laboratory, will be an excellent instrument for non-destructive trace element analyses of cometary nucleus samples. Trace element analyses of as-received cometary nucleus material will also be possible with this technique. Bulk analysis of relatively volatile elements will be important in establishing comet formation conditions. However, as demonstrated for meteorites, microanalyses of individual phases in their petrographic context are crucial in defining the histories of particular components in unequilibrated specimens. Perhaps most informative in comparing cometary material with meteorites will be the halogens and trace metals. In-situ, high spatial resolution microanalyses will be essential in establishing host phases for these elements and identifying terrestrial (collection/processing) overprints. The present SXRF microprobe is a simple, yet powerful, instrument in which specimens are excited with filtered, continuum synchrotron radiation from a bending magnet on a 2.5 GeV electron storage ring. A refrigerated cell will be constructed to permit analyses at low temperatures. The cell will consist essentially of an air tight housing with a cold stage. Kapton windows will be used to allow the incident synchrotron beam to enter the cell and fluorescent x rays to exit it. The cell will be either under vacuum or continuous purge by ultrapure helium during analyses. Several other improvements of the NSLS microprobe will be made prior to the cometary nucleus sample return mission that will greatly enhance the sensitivity of the technique.

Biomass Burning Emissions in the Cerrado of Brazil Computed with Remote Sensing Data and GIS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Guild, Liane S.; Brass, James A.; Chatfield, Robert B.; Hlavka, Christine A.; Riggan, Philip J.; Setzer, Alberto; Pereira, Joao A. Raposo; Peterson, David L. (Technical Monitor)

1994-01-01

Biomass burnin is a common force in much of the developing tropical world where it has wide-ranging environmental impacts. Fire is a component of tropical deforestation and is 0 p often used to clear broad expanses of land for shifting agriculture and cattle ranching. Frequent burning in the tropical savannas is a distinct problem from that of primary forest. In Brazil, most of the burning occurs in the cerrado which occupies approximately 1,800,000 km2, primarily on the great plateau in central Brazil. Wildland and agricultural fires are dramatic sources of regional air pollution in central Brazil. Biomass burning is an important source of a large number of trace gases including greenhouse gases and other chemically active species. Knowledge of trace gas emissions from biomass burning in Brazil is limited by a number of factors, most notably relative emission factors for gases from specific fire types/fuels and accurate estimates of temporal and spatial distribution and extent of fire activity. Estimates of trace gas emissions during September 1992 will be presented that incorporates a digital map of vegetation classes, pyrogenic emission factors calculated from ground and aircraft missions, and Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas Espaciais (INPE) fire products derived from Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR) data. The regional emissions calculated from National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) AVHRR estimates of fire activity will provide an independent estimate for comparison with results obtained by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Transport and Atmospheric Chemistry Near the Equator - Atlantic (TRACE-A) experiments.

Pulsed-laser excitation of acoustic modes in open high-Q photoacoustic resonators for trace gas monitoring: results for C2H4

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brand, Christian; Winkler, Andreas; Hess, Peter; Miklós, András; Bozóki, Zoltán; Sneider, János

1995-06-01

The pulsed excitation of acoustic resonances was studied with a continuously monitoring photoacoustic detector system. Acoustic waves were generated in C2H4/N 2 gas mixtures by light absorption of the pulses from a transversely excited atmospheric CO2 laser. The photoacoustic part consisted of high-Q cylindrical resonators (Q factor 820 for the first radial mode in N2) and two adjoining variable acoustic filter systems. The time-resolved signal was Fourier transformed to a frequency spectrum of high resolution. For the first radial mode a Lorentzian profile was fitted to the measured data. The outside noise suppression and the signal-to-noise ratio were investigated in a normal laboratory environment in the flow-through mode. The acoustic and electric filter system combined with the

Heat tracing to determine spatial patterns of hyporheic exchange across a river transect

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lu, Chengpeng; Chen, Shuai; Zhang, Ying; Su, Xiaoru; Chen, Guohao

2017-09-01

Significant spatial variability of water fluxes may exist at the water-sediment interface in river channels and has great influence on a variety of water issues. Understanding the complicated flow systems controlling the flux exchanges along an entire river is often limited due to averaging of parameters or the small number of discrete point measurements usually used. This study investigated the spatial pattern of the hyporheic flux exchange across a river transect in China, using the heat tracing approach. This was done with measurements of temperature at high spatial resolution during a 64-h monitoring period and using the data to identify the spatial pattern of the hyporheic exchange flux with the aid of a one-dimensional conduction-advection-dispersion model (VFLUX). The threshold of neutral exchange was considered as 126 L m-2 d-1 in this study and the heat tracing results showed that the change patterns of vertical hyporheic flux varied with buried depth along the river transect; however, the hyporheic flux was not simply controlled by the streambed hydraulic conductivity and water depth in the river transect. Also, lateral flow dominated the hyporheic process within the shallow high-permeability streambed, while the vertical flow was dominant in the deep low-permeability streambed. The spatial pattern of hyporheic exchange across the river transect was naturally controlled by the heterogeneity of the streambed and the bedform of the stream cross-section. Consequently, a two-dimensional conceptual illustration of the hyporheic process across the river transect is proposed, which could be applicable to river transects of similar conditions.

(Pre-) historic changes in natural and anthropogenic heavy metals deposition inferred from two contrasting Swiss Alpine lakes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thevenon, Florian; Guédron, Stéphane; Chiaradia, Massimo; Loizeau, Jean-Luc; Poté, John

2011-01-01

Continuous high-resolution sedimentary record of heavy metals (chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), and mercury (Hg)), from lakes Lucerne and Meidsee (Switzerland), provides pollutant deposition history from two contrasting Alpine environments over the last millennia. The distribution of conservative elements (thorium (Th), scandium (Sc) and titanium (Ti)) shows that in absence of human disturbances, the trace element input is primarily controlled by weathering processes (i.e., runoff and erosion). Nonetheless, the enrichment factor (EF) of Pb and Hg (that are measured by independent methods), and the Pb isotopic composition of sediments from the remote lake Meidsee (which are proportionally more enriched in anthropogenic heavy metals), likely detect early mining activities during the Bronze Age. Meanwhile, the deposition of trace elements remains close to the range of natural variations until the strong impact of Roman activities on atmospheric metal emissions. Both sites display simultaneous increases in anthropogenic trace metal deposition during the Greek and Roman Empires (ca 300 BC to AD 400), the Late Middle Ages (ca AD 1400), and the Early Modern Europe (after ca AD 1600). However, the greatest increases in anthropogenic metal pollution are evidenced after the industrial revolution of ca AD 1850, at low and high altitudes. During the twentieth century, industrial releases multiplied by ca 10 times heavy metal fluxes to hydrological systems located on both sides of the Alps. During the last decades, the recent growing contribution of low radiogenic Pb further highlights the contribution of industrial sources with respect to wood and coal burning emissions.

High-sensitivity ESCA instrument

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

Davies, R.D.; Herglotz, H.K.; Lee, J.D.

1973-01-01

A new electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis (ESCA) instrument has been developed to provide high sensitivity and efficient operation for laboratory analysis of composition and chemical bonding in very thin surface layers of solid samples. High sensitivity is achieved by means of the high-intensity, efficient x-ray source described by Davies and Herglotz at the 1968 Denver X-Ray Conference, in combination with the new electron energy analyzer described by Lee at the 1972 Pittsburgh Conference on Analytical Chemistry and Applied Spectroscopy. A sample chamber designed to provide for rapid introduction and replacement of samples has adequate facilities for various sample treatmentsmore » and conditiouing followed immediately by ESCA analysis of the sample. Examples of application are presented, demonstrating the sensitivity and resolution achievable with this instrument. Its usefulness in trace surface analysis is shown and some chemical shifts'' measured by the instrument are compared with those obtained by x-ray spectroscopy. (auth)« less