Examination of the current practice of lighting in Virginia : nighttime work zones and improving safety through the development of nighttime lighting specifications : final report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-09-01

This project evaluated current nighttime work zone lighting practices for limited-access highways and primary routes in Virginia through (1) an on-site evaluation of lighting levels in work zones; (2) an illuminance characterization of various commer...

Examination of the current practice of lighting in Virginia : nighttime work zones and improving safety through the development of nighttime lighting specifications : summary report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-09-01

This project evaluated current nighttime work zone lighting practices for limited-access highways and primary routes in Virginia through (1) an on-site evaluation of lighting levels in work zones; (2) an illuminance characterization of various commer...

23 CFR 630.1014 - Implementation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING AND TRAFFIC OPERATIONS PRECONSTRUCTION PROCEDURES Work Zone Safety and Mobility § 630.1014 Implementation. Each State shall work in partnership with the FHWA in the implementation of its policies and procedures to improve work zone safety and...

23 CFR 630.1014 - Implementation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING AND TRAFFIC OPERATIONS PRECONSTRUCTION PROCEDURES Work Zone Safety and Mobility § 630.1014 Implementation. Each State shall work in partnership with the FHWA in the implementation of its policies and procedures to improve work zone safety and...

23 CFR 630.1014 - Implementation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING AND TRAFFIC OPERATIONS PRECONSTRUCTION PROCEDURES Work Zone Safety and Mobility § 630.1014 Implementation. Each State shall work in partnership with the FHWA in the implementation of its policies and procedures to improve work zone safety and...

23 CFR 630.1014 - Implementation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING AND TRAFFIC OPERATIONS PRECONSTRUCTION PROCEDURES Work Zone Safety and Mobility § 630.1014 Implementation. Each State shall work in partnership with the FHWA in the implementation of its policies and procedures to improve work zone safety and...

Improved work zone design guidelines and enhanced model of travel delays in work zones : Phase I, portability and scalability of interarrival and service time probability distribution functions for different locations in Ohio and the establishment of impr

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2006-01-01

Problem: Work zones on heavily traveled divided highways present problems to motorists in the form of traffic delays and increased accident risks due to sometimes reduced motorist guidance, dense traffic, and other driving difficulties. To minimize t...

Work zone performance monitoring application development.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-10-01

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) requires state transportation agencies to (a) collect and analyze safety and mobility data to manage the work zone impacts of individual projects during construction and (b) improve overall agency processes a...

Improving Night Work Zone Traffic Control

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1999-08-01

The purpose of this study was to examine traffic control for night work zones from the perspective of both transportation agencies and motorists. This was accomplished by investigating practices of state departments of transportation (DOTs), identify...

Integrated risk management for improving internal traffic control, work-zone safety, and mobility during major construction : tech transfer summary.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2012-10-01

Construction work zones are among the most dangerous places to work in any industry in the world. This is because many factors in construction, such as constant change in working environments and driver errors, contribute to a workplace with a higher...

High visibility safety apparel and nighttime conspicuity of pedestrians in work zones.

PubMed

Sayer, James R; Mefford, Mary Lynn

2004-01-01

Every year numerous occupational fatalities result from pedestrians being struck by motor vehicles intruding into work zones. Attributes of retroreflective personal safety garments on pedestrian conspicuity at night were assessed in a field study. Using instrumented vehicles on a closed track, participants drove through simulated work zones attempting to detect pedestrians located in the work zones. Configuration of the retroreflective trim, trim color, placement in the work zone, and driver age significantly affected pedestrian conspicuity. Intensity and the amount of retroreflective trim did not. Personal safety garments incorporating retroreflective trim significantly improve pedestrian conspicuity in work zones. The results emphasize the importance of retroreflective trim on personal safety garments, particularly if the trim is located on garment sleeves. We examine the design attributes that contribute to making a personal safety garment conspicuous. The results have implications regarding preferred garment designs, industry standards, and service life of personal safety garments.

23 CFR 630.1014 - Implementation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... PRECONSTRUCTION PROCEDURES Work Zone Safety and Mobility § 630.1014 Implementation. Each State shall work in partnership with the FHWA in the implementation of its policies and procedures to improve work zone safety and mobility. At a minimum, this shall involve an FHWA review of conformance of the State's policies and...

Improving work-zone delineation on limited access highways.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1989-01-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate vehicle guidance through work zones by evaluating the effectiveness of two primary components of traffic control relative to delineation. First, a comparison of the steady-burn lights presently used on top...

Studies to determine the effectiveness of longitudinal channelizing devices in work zones.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-01-01

This report describes the methodology and results of analyses performed to determine whether the following longitudinal : channelizing device (LCD) applications improve the traffic safety and operations of work zones relative to the use of standard :...

0-6781 : improved nighttime work zone channelization in confined urban projects.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2014-08-01

Turning into and out of driveways in confined or : dense urban work zones can present significant : challenges to drivers, especially during nighttime : conditions when other visual cues about the : driveways may be masked in the dark. These : challe...

Improving safety in high-speed work zones : a Super 70 study : [summary].

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-08-01

Highway work zones, particularly those on urban high-speed roads, require special attention and adequate traffic management to reduce the adverse impact of altered geometry and traffic that differ from typical conditions. Super 70 was an urban recons...

Applicability of Zipper Merge Versus Early Merge in Kentucky Work Zones

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-12-24

In an effort to improve work zone safety and streamline traffic flows, a number of state transportation agencies (STAs) have experimented with the zipper merge. The zipper merge differs from a conventional, or early, merge in that vehicles do not mer...

Considerations for the Development of Work Zone Mobility Performance Measures and Thresholds for Virginia Freeways.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2014-02-01

"The Federal Highway Administration has been encouraging states to improve their monitoring and tracking of the : mobility impacts of work zones. The use of mobility performance measures will enable agencies to assess better the : contribution of wor...

Improving the effectiveness of nighttime temporary traffic control warning devices, volume 1 : evaluation of lights on nighttime work zone channelization devices.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-10-01

Currently, the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) is one of the few state transportation agencies that : require warning lights on nighttime work zone channelization devices, such as drums and barricades. The intent : of the steady-burn, am...

23 CFR 630.1008 - State-level processes and procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... review are intended to lead to improvements in work zone processes and procedures, data and information... 23 Highways 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false State-level processes and procedures. 630.1008 Section... OPERATIONS PRECONSTRUCTION PROCEDURES Work Zone Safety and Mobility § 630.1008 State-level processes and...

Analysis of the frequency and severity of rear-end crashes in work zones.

PubMed

Qi, Yi; Srinivasan, Raghavan; Teng, Hualiang; Baker, Robert

2013-01-01

The objective of this study was to identify the factors that influence the frequency and severity of rear-end crashes in work zones because rear-end crashes represent a significant proportion of crashes that occur in work zones. Truncated count data models were developed to identify influencing factors on the frequency of read-end crashes in work zones and ordered probit models were developed to evaluate influencing factors on the severity of rear-end crashes in work zones. Most of the variables identified in this study for these 2 models were significant at the 95 percent level. The statistics for models indicate that the 2 developed models are appropriate compared to alternative models. Major findings related to the frequency of rear-end crashes include the following: (1) work zones for capacity and pavement improvements have the highest frequency compared to other types of work zones; (2) work zones controlled by flaggers are associated with more rear-end crashes compared to those controlled by arrow boards; and (3) work zones with alternating one-way traffic tended to have more rear-end crashes compared to those with lane shifts. Major findings related to the severity of the rear-end crashes include the following: (1) rear-end crashes associated with alcohol, night, pedestrians, and roadway defects are more severe, and those associated with careless backing, stalled vehicles, slippery roadways, and misunderstanding flagging signals are less severe; (2) truck involvement and a large number of vehicles in a crash are both associated with increased severity, and (3) rear-end crashes that happened in work zones for bridge, capacity, and pavement are likely to be more severe than others.

Modelling the transitional boundary layer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Narasimha, R.

1990-01-01

Recent developments in the modelling of the transition zone in the boundary layer are reviewed (the zone being defined as extending from the station where intermittency begins to depart from zero to that where it is nearly unity). The value of using a new non-dimensional spot formation rate parameter, and the importance of allowing for so-called subtransitions within the transition zone, are both stressed. Models do reasonably well in constant pressure 2-dimensional flows, but in the presence of strong pressure gradients further improvements are needed. The linear combination approach works surprisingly well in most cases, but would not be so successful in situations where a purely laminar boundary layer would separate but a transitional one would not. Intermittency-weighted eddy viscosity methods do not predict peak surface parameters well without the introduction of an overshooting transition function whose connection with the spot theory of transition is obscure. Suggestions are made for further work that now appears necessary for developing improved models of the transition zone.

Communities on the Move: Pedestrian-Oriented Zoning as a Facilitator of Adult Active Travel to Work in the United States.

PubMed

Chriqui, Jamie F; Leider, Julien; Thrun, Emily; Nicholson, Lisa M; Slater, Sandy

2016-01-01

Communities across the United States have been reforming their zoning codes to create pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods with increased street connectivity, mixed use and higher density, open space, transportation infrastructure, and a traditional neighborhood structure. Zoning code reforms include new urbanist zoning such as the SmartCode, form-based codes, transects, transportation and pedestrian-oriented developments, and traditional neighborhood developments. To examine the relationship of zoning code reforms and more active living--oriented zoning provisions with adult active travel to work via walking, biking, or by using public transit. Zoning codes effective as of 2010 were compiled for 3,914 municipal-level jurisdictions located in 471 counties and 2 consolidated cities in 48 states and the District of Columbia, and that collectively covered 72.9% of the U.S. population. Zoning codes were evaluated for the presence of code reform zoning and nine pedestrian-oriented zoning provisions (1 = yes): sidewalks, crosswalks, bike-pedestrian connectivity, street connectivity, bike lanes, bike parking, bike-pedestrian trails/paths, mixed-use development, and other walkability/pedestrian orientation. A zoning scale reflected the number of provisions addressed (out of 10). Five continuous outcome measures were constructed using 2010-2014 American Community Survey municipal-level 5-year estimates to assess the percentage of workers: walking, biking, walking or biking, or taking public transit to work OR engaged in any active travel to work. Regression models controlled for municipal-level socioeconomic characteristics and a GIS-constructed walkability scale and were clustered on county with robust standard errors. Adjusted models indicated that several pedestrian-oriented zoning provisions were statistically associated (p < 0.05 or lower) with increased rates of walking, biking, or engaging in any active travel (walking, biking, or any active travel) to work: code reform zoning, bike parking (street furniture), bike lanes, bike-pedestrian trails/paths, other walkability, mixed-use zoning, and a higher score on the zoning scale. Public transit use was associated with code reform zoning and a number of zoning measures in Southern jurisdictions but not in non-Southern jurisdictions. As jurisdictions revisit their zoning and land use policies, they may want to evaluate the pedestrian-orientation of their zoning codes so that they can plan for pedestrian improvements that will help to encourage active travel to work.

Vehicle emission implications of drivers' smart advisory system for traffic operations in work zones.

PubMed

Li, Qing; Qiao, Fengxiang; Yu, Lei

2016-05-01

Wireless communication systems have been broadly applied in various complicated traffic operations to improve mobility and safety on roads, which may raise a concern about the implication of the new technology on vehicle emissions. This paper explores how the wireless communication systems improve drivers' driving behaviors and its contributions to the emission reduction, in terms of Operating Mode (OpMode) IDs distribution used in emission estimation. A simulated work zone with completed traffic operation was selected as a test bed. Sixty subjects were recruited for the tests, whose demographic distribution was based on the Census data in Houston, Texas. A scene of a pedestrian's crossing in the work zone was designed for the driving test. Meanwhile, a wireless communication system called Drivers Smart Advisory System (DSAS) was proposed and introduced in the driving simulation, which provided drivers with warning messages in the work zone. Two scenarios were designed for a leading vehicle as well as for a following vehicle driving through the work zone, which included a base test without any wireless communication systems, and a driving test with the trigger of the DSAS. Subjects' driving behaviors in the simulation were recorded to evaluate safety and estimate the vehicle emission using the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released emission model MOVES. The correlation between drivers' driving behavior and the distribution of the OpMode ID during each scenario was investigated. Results show that the DSAS was able to induce drivers to accelerate smoothly, keep longer headway distance and stop earlier for a hazardous situation in the work zone, which driving behaviors result in statistically significant reduction in vehicle emissions for almost all studied air pollutants (p-values range from 4.10E-51 to 2.18E-03). The emission reduction was achieved by the switching the distribution of the OpMode IDs from higher emission zones to lower emission zones. Transportation section is a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions. Many studies demonstrate that the wireless communication system dedicated for safety and mobility issues may contribute to the induction in vehicle emissions through changing driving behaviors. An insight into the correlation between the driving behaviors and the distribution of Operating Mode (OpMode) IDs is essential to enhance the emission reduction. The result of this study shows that with a Drivers Smart Advisory System (DSAS) drivers accelerated smoothly and stopped earlier for a hazardous situation, which induce the switch of the OpMode IDs from high emission zones to lower emission zones.

Use of Friction Stir Processing for Improving Heat-Affected Zone Liquation Cracking Resistance of a Cast Magnesium Alloy AZ91D

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karthik, G. M.; Janaki Ram, G. D.; Kottada, Ravi Sankar

2017-12-01

In this work, a cast magnesium alloy AZ91D was friction stir processed. Detailed microstructural studies and Gleeble hot ductility tests were conducted on the as-cast and the FSPed samples to comparatively assess their heat-affected zone liquation cracking behavior. The results show that the use of FSP as a pretreatment to fusion welding can strikingly improve the heat-affected zone liquation cracking resistance of alloy AZ91D by reducing the amount and size of the low-melting eutectic β (Mg17Al12) as well as by refining the matrix grain size.

Impact assessment of incident scene work zone alerts for drivers and workers (INC-ZONE) and incident scene pre-arrival staging guidance for emergency responders (RESP-STG).

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2015-05-01

Response, Emergency Staging and Communications, Uniform Management, and Evacuation (R.E.S.C.U.M.E.) is a bundle of applications that targets the improvement of traffic safety and mobility during crashes and other emergencies that affect the highway n...

Student Work Safety Guidelines in Roadside Applications and Work Zones : Safety Guidelines for Transportation Researchers

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2018-01-01

The Smart City Demonstration Program is intended to improve access through expanded mobility options in major job centers, enhance visitor experience by better connecting visitors to transportation options, stimulate regional economic prosperity and ...

Improving work zone safety for freight vehicles : effective design patterns for vehicle mounted attenuators.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-12-01

This report presents a study of driver perceptions using a driving simulator carried out on the effectiveness of : four markings which vary in striping patterns and color combinations used at the rear of vehicle mounted : attenuators (VMAs) in work z...

WorkZoneQ user guide for two-lane freeway work zones.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-06-01

WorkZoneQ was developed in Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) to implement the results of the previous study, : Queue and Users Costs in Highway Work Zones. This report contains the WorkZoneQ user guide. WorkZoneQ : consists of eight Excel ...

Mapping tradeoffs in values at risk at the interface between wilderness and non-wilderness lands

Treesearch

Alan Watson; Roian Matt; Tim Waters; Kari Gunderson; Steve Carver; Brett Davis

2009-01-01

On the Flathead Indian Reservation in Montana, U.S., the Mission Mountains Tribal Wilderness is bordered by a buffer zone. To successfully improve forest health within that buffer zone and restore fire in the wilderness, the managing agency and the public need to work together to find solutions to increasingly threatening fuel buildups. A combination of qualitative,...

Safety evaluation of joint and conventional lane merge configurations for freeway work zones.

PubMed

Ishak, Sherif; Qi, Yan; Rayaprolu, Pradeep

2012-01-01

Inefficient operation of traffic in work zone areas not only leads to an increase in travel time delays, queue length, and fuel consumption but also increases the number of forced merges and roadway accidents. This study evaluated the safety performance of work zones with a conventional lane merge (CLM) configuration in Louisiana. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to compare the crash rates for accidents involving fatalities, injuries, and property damage only (PDO) in each of the following 4 areas: (1) advance warning area, (2) transition area, (3) work area, and (4) termination area. The analysis showed that the advance warning area had higher fatality, injury, and PDO crash rates when compared to the transition area, work area, and termination area. This finding confirmed the need to make improvements in the advance warning area where merging maneuvers take place. Therefore, a new lane merge configuration, called joint lane merge (JLM), was proposed and its safety performance was examined and compared to the conventional lane merge configuration using a microscopic simulation model (VISSIM), which was calibrated with real-world data from an existing work zone on I-55 and used to simulate a total of 25 different scenarios with different levels of demand and traffic composition. Safety performance was evaluated using 2 surrogate measures: uncomfortable decelerations and speed variance. Statistical analysis was conducted to determine whether the differences in safety performance between both configurations were significant. The safety analysis indicated that JLM outperformed CLM in most cases with low to moderate flow rates and that the percentage of trucks did not have a significant impact on the safety performance of either configuration. Though the safety analysis did not clearly indicate which lane merge configuration is safer for the overall work zone area, it was able to identify the possibly associated safety changes within the work zone area under different traffic conditions. Copyright © 2012 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC

Implementing SCANS. Highlight Zone: Research @ Work.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Packer, Arnold C.; Brainard, Scott

Foremost among efforts over the last decade to improve the work-related skills required of all young people to meet the demands of American's workplaces was the Secretary's Commission on Achieving Necessary Skills Commission (SCANS). Integral to SCANS were its three-part foundation (basic skills, thinking skills, and personal qualities) and these…

Work zone safety analysis and modeling: a state-of-the-art review.

PubMed

Yang, Hong; Ozbay, Kaan; Ozturk, Ozgur; Xie, Kun

2015-01-01

Work zone safety is one of the top priorities for transportation agencies. In recent years, a considerable volume of research has sought to determine work zone crash characteristics and causal factors. Unlike other non-work zone-related safety studies (on both crash frequency and severity), there has not yet been a comprehensive review and assessment of methodological approaches for work zone safety. To address this deficit, this article aims to provide a comprehensive review of the existing extensive research efforts focused on work zone crash-related analysis and modeling, in the hopes of providing researchers and practitioners with a complete overview. Relevant literature published in the last 5 decades was retrieved from the National Work Zone Crash Information Clearinghouse and the Transport Research International Documentation database and other public digital libraries and search engines. Both peer-reviewed publications and research reports were obtained. Each study was carefully reviewed, and those that focused on either work zone crash data analysis or work zone safety modeling were identified. The most relevant studies are specifically examined and discussed in the article. The identified studies were carefully synthesized to understand the state of knowledge on work zone safety. Agreement and inconsistency regarding the characteristics of the work zone crashes discussed in the descriptive studies were summarized. Progress and issues about the current practices on work zone crash frequency and severity modeling are also explored and discussed. The challenges facing work zone safety research are then presented. The synthesis of the literature suggests that the presence of a work zone is likely to increase the crash rate. Crashes are not uniformly distributed within work zones and rear-end crashes are the most prevalent type of crashes in work zones. There was no across-the-board agreement among numerous papers reviewed on the relationship between work zone crashes and other factors such as time, weather, victim severity, traffic control devices, and facility types. Moreover, both work zone crash frequency and severity models still rely on relatively simple modeling techniques and approaches. In addition, work zone data limitations have caused a number of challenges in analyzing and modeling work zone safety. Additional efforts on data collection, developing a systematic data analysis framework, and using more advanced modeling approaches are suggested as future research tasks.

Freeway work zone lane capacity.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-01-01

The focus of this report is a capacity analysis of two long-term urban freeway Work Zones. Work Zone #1 : tapered four mainline lanes to two, using two separate tapers; Work Zone #2 tapered two mainline lanes to one. : Work Zone throughput was analyz...

Evaluation of Automated Flagger Assistance Devices

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2018-02-01

Automated flagger assistance devices (AFADs) are designed to improve worker safety by replacing flaggers who are typically located near traffic approaching a work zone. In this study, a new AFAD developed by the Missouri Department of Transportation ...

Comparison of different assimilation methodologies of groundwater levels to improve predictions of root zone soil moisture with an integrated terrestrial system model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Hongjuan; Kurtz, Wolfgang; Kollet, Stefan; Vereecken, Harry; Franssen, Harrie-Jan Hendricks

2018-01-01

The linkage between root zone soil moisture and groundwater is either neglected or simplified in most land surface models. The fully-coupled subsurface-land surface model TerrSysMP including variably saturated groundwater dynamics is used in this work. We test and compare five data assimilation methodologies for assimilating groundwater level data via the ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) to improve root zone soil moisture estimation with TerrSysMP. Groundwater level data are assimilated in the form of pressure head or soil moisture (set equal to porosity in the saturated zone) to update state vectors. In the five assimilation methodologies, the state vector contains either (i) pressure head, or (ii) log-transformed pressure head, or (iii) soil moisture, or (iv) pressure head for the saturated zone only, or (v) a combination of pressure head and soil moisture, pressure head for the saturated zone and soil moisture for the unsaturated zone. These methodologies are evaluated in synthetic experiments which are performed for different climate conditions, soil types and plant functional types to simulate various root zone soil moisture distributions and groundwater levels. The results demonstrate that EnKF cannot properly handle strongly skewed pressure distributions which are caused by extreme negative pressure heads in the unsaturated zone during dry periods. This problem can only be alleviated by methodology (iii), (iv) and (v). The last approach gives the best results and avoids unphysical updates related to strongly skewed pressure heads in the unsaturated zone. If groundwater level data are assimilated by methodology (iii), EnKF fails to update the state vector containing the soil moisture values if for (almost) all the realizations the observation does not bring significant new information. Synthetic experiments for the joint assimilation of groundwater levels and surface soil moisture support methodology (v) and show great potential for improving the representation of root zone soil moisture.

Validating the Performance of the FHWA Work Zone Model Version 1.0: A Case Study Along I-91 in Springfield, Massachusetts

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-08-01

Central to the effective design of work zones is being able to understand how drivers behave as they approach and enter a work zone area. States use simulation tools in modeling freeway work zones to predict work zone impacts and to select optimal de...

Traffic control strategies for congested freeways and work zones.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2008-10-01

The primary objective of the research was to identify and evaluate effective ways of improving traffic operations and : safety on congested freeways. There was particular interest in finding condition-responsive traffic control solutions : for the fo...

Numerical simulations of inductive-heated float-zone growth

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chan, Y. T.; Choi, S. K.

1992-01-01

The present work provides an improved fluid flow and heat-transfer modeling of float-zone growth by introducing a RF heating model so that an ad hoc heating temperature profile is not necessary. Numerical simulations were carried out to study the high-temperature float-zone growth of titanium carbide single crystal. The numerical results showed that the thermocapillary convection occurring inside the molten zone tends to increase the convexity of the melt-crystal interface and decrease the maximum temperature of the molten zone, while the natural convection tends to reduce the stability of the molten zone by increasing its height. It was found that the increase of induced heating due to the increase of applied RF voltage is reduced by the decrease of zone diameter. Surface tension plays an important role in controlling the amount of induced heating. Finally, a comparison of the computed shape of the free surface with a digital image obtained during a growth run showed adequate agreement.

Becoming a School Principal: Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fiarman, Sarah E.

2015-01-01

The principal's role is increasingly understood as a critical lever for school improvement. Yet the job can be a solitary one, offering few opportunities to reflect with colleagues. What does it take to manage the work of continuous improvement--to push staff members constantly to operate outside their comfort zones? What dilemmas and challenges…

Resources on work zone safety and mobility performance monitoring and measurement.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-01-01

Work zone performance measures are metrics that help quantify how work zones impact travelers, residents, businesses, and workers. Some performance measures describe how an individual work zone impacts these audiences; other performance measures desc...

Evaluation of temporary ramp metering for work zones.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2012-11-01

Ramp metering has been successfully implemented in many states to improve traffic operations on freeways. Studies have documented the positive mobility and safety benefits of ramp metering. However, there have been no studies on the use of ramp meter...

Evaluation of automated flagger assistance devices : interim report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-08-01

Flagger safety is an important issue in work zones due to the proximity of the flagger to traffic. Some strategies for improving flagger safety include slowing down approaching vehicles or removing flaggers from the immediate vicinity of traffic. The...

Closed Course Testing of Portable Rumble Strips to Improve Truck Safety at Work Zones

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-01-01

The purpose of this research was to compare the attention-getting characteristics, movements and vertical displacements of several portable, reusable rumble strips. The attention-getting characteristics and displacement were measured after passes of ...

Assessing the environmental impacts of work zones in arterial improvement projects.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2014-12-01

Preservation treatments help in extending the remaining service lives of pavements, but at the same time, they : may have substantial environmental impacts due to the acquisition of raw materials, transportation of the extracted : materials, manufact...

Evaluation of work zone speed limits : an objective and subjective analysis of work zones in Missouri.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-02-01

This study objectively and subjectively examined speed characteristics and driver compliance with the posted speed limit : in Missouri work zones. The objective evaluation collected vehicle speeds from four work zones with different : configurations ...

Principles and Guidelines for Duty and Rest Scheduling in Commercial Aviation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dinges, David F.; Graeber, R. Curtis; Rosekind, Mark R.; Samel, Alexander

1996-01-01

The aviation industry requires 24-hour activities to meet operational demands. Growth in global long-haul, regional, overnight cargo, and short-haul domestic operations will continue to increase these round-the-clock requirements. Flight crews must be available to support 24-hour-a-day operations to meet these industry demands. Both domestic and international aviation can also require crossing multiple time zones. Therefore, shift work, night work, irregular work schedules, unpredictable work schedules, and dm zone changes will continue to be commonplace components of the aviation industry. These factors pose known challenges to human physiology, and because they result in performance-impairing fatigue, they pose a risk to safety. It is critical to acknowledge and, whenever possible, incorporate scientific information on fatigue, human sleep, and circadian physiology into 24-hour aviation operations. Utilization of such scientific information can help promote crew performance and alertness during flight operations and thereby maintain and improve the safety margin.

Explorative study on management model of tourism business zone at Kuta, Bali

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Astawa, I. K.; Suardani, A. A. P.; Harmini, A. A. A. N.

2018-01-01

Business activities through asset management of indigenous village of Kuta provide an opportunity for the community to participate in improving their welfare. This study aims to analyze the management model of Kuta’s tourism business zone, the involvement of stakeholders in the management of Kuta’s tourism business zone in indigenous village of Kuta and the implications of each business tourism zone in indigenous village of Kuta in the level of community welfare in each zone. Data collection was done by observation, interview, questionnaire, and documentation. The main instrument of this study is the researchers themselves assisted with interview guideline. The results showed that the management model has been arranged in 5 tourism business zones in indigenous village of Kuta. The involvement of all stakeholders in the management of the tourism business zone follows the procedure of execution of duties and provides security, comfort and certainty of doing business activities at each zone. The implications of the tourism business in the level of community welfare in each zone in indigenous village of Kuta have been able to bring happiness in business and all community are satisfied with the income they earned from work in each business zone.

Improving safety in high-speed work zones : a Super 70 study.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-01-01

Super 70 was an urban reconstruction project (March-November 2007) along I-70 in the central part of Indianapolis. INDOT : applied in that project several innovative and traditional solutions. This study investigates the safety effect of the solution...

Generalized Pseudo-Reaction Zone Model for Non-Ideal Explosives

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wescott, Bradley

2007-06-01

The pseudo-reaction zone model was proposed to improve engineering scale simulations when using Detonation Shock Dynamics with high explosives that have a slow reaction component. In this work an extension of the pseudo-reaction zone model is developed for non-ideal explosives that propagate well below their steady-planar Chapman-Jouguet velocity. A programmed burn method utilizing Detonation Shock Dynamics and a detonation velocity dependent pseudo-reaction rate has been developed for non-ideal explosives and applied to the explosive mixture of ammonium nitrate and fuel oil (ANFO). The pseudo-reaction rate is calibrated to the experimentally obtained normal detonation velocity---shock curvature relation. The generalized pseudo-reaction zone model proposed here predicts the cylinder expansion to within 1% by accounting for the slow reaction in ANFO.

Evaluation Of Traffic Control Devices For Rural High-Speed Maintenance Work Zones

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2000-10-01

This report documents the first year activities of a two-year project in which various work zone traffic control devices, treatments, and practices were implemented and evaluated. The focus was on rural high-speed work zones. Nine work zones were stu...

Work zone intrusion alert technologies : assessment and practical guidance : final report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-06-01

A work zone intrusion alert technology is a type of safety system that is used in a roadway work zone to alert field workers and secure time for them to escape when errant vehicles intrude into the work zone. Although such technologies have potential...

23 CFR 630.1006 - Work zone safety and mobility policy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 23 Highways 1 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Work zone safety and mobility policy. 630.1006 Section 630.1006 Highways FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING AND TRAFFIC OPERATIONS PRECONSTRUCTION PROCEDURES Work Zone Safety and Mobility § 630.1006 Work zone safety and mobility...

23 CFR 630.1006 - Work zone safety and mobility policy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 23 Highways 1 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Work zone safety and mobility policy. 630.1006 Section 630.1006 Highways FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING AND TRAFFIC OPERATIONS PRECONSTRUCTION PROCEDURES Work Zone Safety and Mobility § 630.1006 Work zone safety and mobility...

23 CFR 630.1006 - Work zone safety and mobility policy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 23 Highways 1 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Work zone safety and mobility policy. 630.1006 Section 630.1006 Highways FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING AND TRAFFIC OPERATIONS PRECONSTRUCTION PROCEDURES Work Zone Safety and Mobility § 630.1006 Work zone safety and mobility...

23 CFR 630.1006 - Work zone safety and mobility policy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 23 Highways 1 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Work zone safety and mobility policy. 630.1006 Section 630.1006 Highways FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING AND TRAFFIC OPERATIONS PRECONSTRUCTION PROCEDURES Work Zone Safety and Mobility § 630.1006 Work zone safety and mobility...

Evaluation of the effectiveness of a variable advisory speed system on queue mitigation in work zones.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-04-01

Variable Advisory Speed Systems (VASS) provide drivers with advanced warning regarding traffic speeds downstream to help them make better decisions. Vehicle use on highways is increasing and the need to improve highways brings increased construction ...

Preliminary report on the use of LANDSAT-1 (ERTS-1) reflectance data in locating alteration zones associated with uranium mineralization near Cameron, Arizona

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

Spirakis, C.S.; Condit, C.D.

1975-01-01

LANDSAT-1 (ERTS-1) multispectral reflectance data were used to enhance the detection of alteration around uranium deposits near Cameron, Ariz. The technique involved stretching and ratioing computer-enhanced data from which electronic noise and atmospheric haze had been removed. Using present techniques, the work proves that LANDSAT-1 data are useful in detecting alteration around uranium deposits, but the method may still be improved. Bluish-gray mudstone in the target area could not be differentiated from the altered zones on the ratioed images. Further experiments involving combinations of ratioed and nonratioed data will be required to uniquely define the altered zones.

Microstructure and Porosity of Laser Welds in Cast Ti-6Al-4V with Addition of Boron

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tolvanen, Sakari; Pederson, Robert; Klement, Uta

2018-03-01

Addition of small amounts of boron to cast Ti-6Al-4V alloy has shown to render a finer microstructure and improved mechanical properties. For such an improved alloy to be widely applicable for large aerospace structural components, successful welding of such castings is essential. In the present work, the microstructure and porosity of laser welds in a standard grade cast Ti-6Al-4V alloy as well as two modified alloy versions with different boron concentrations have been investigated. Prior-β grain reconstruction revealed the prior-β grain structure in the weld zones. In fusion zones of the welds, boron was found to refine the grain size significantly and rendered narrow elongated grains. TiB particles in the prior-β grain boundaries in the cast base material restricted grain growth in the heat-affected zone. The TiB particles that existed in the as cast alloys decreased in size in the fusion zones of welds. The hardness in the weld zones was higher than in the base material and boron did not have a significant effect on hardness of the weld zones. The fusion zones were smaller in the boron-modified alloys as compared with Ti-6Al-4V without boron. Computed tomography X-ray investigations of the laser welds showed that pores in the FZ of the boron modified alloys were confined to the lower part of the welds, suggesting that boron addition influences melt pool flow.

23 CFR 630.1006 - Work zone safety and mobility policy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 23 Highways 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Work zone safety and mobility policy. 630.1006 Section... policy. Each State shall implement a policy for the systematic consideration and management of work zone impacts on all Federal-aid highway projects. This policy shall address work zone impacts throughout the...

Analysis of passenger-car crash injury severity in different work zone configurations.

PubMed

Osman, Mohamed; Paleti, Rajesh; Mishra, Sabyasachee

2018-02-01

Work zone safety remains a priority to the Federal Highway Administration, State Highway Departments, highway engineers, and the traveling public. Work zones create a hospitable environment for crashes; an issue that gained tremendous share of attention in recent years. Therefore, every effort should be sought out to reduce the injury severity of crashes in work zones. In this paper we attempt to investigate factors contributing to the injury severity of passenger-car crashes in different work zone configurations. Considering the discrete ordinal nature of injury severity categories, a Mixed Generalized Ordered Response Probit (MGORP) modeling framework was developed. The model estimation was undertaken by compiling a database consisting of 10 years of crashes that involved at least one passenger car, and occurred in a work zone. Revealing the underlying factors contributing to injury severity levels for different work zone configurations will allow for distinguishing mitigation methods for higher severity outcomes that best suit each of the depicted work zone layouts. This can be accomplished through the implementation of specific safety measures based on the specific configuration of a work zone as a potential crash location. Elasticity analysis suggests that partial control of access, roadways classified as rural, crashes during evening times, crashes during weekends, and curved roadways are key factors that increase the likelihood of severe outcomes. Also, the effects of several covariates were found to vary across the different work zone configurations. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Work zone variable speed limit systems: Effectiveness and system design issues.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-03-01

Variable speed limit (VSL) systems have been used in a number of countries, particularly in Europe, as a method to improve flow and increase safety. VSLs use detectors to collect data on current traffic and/or weather conditions. Posted speed limits ...

Work zone variable speed limit systems : effectiveness and system design issues.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-03-01

Variable speed limit (VSL) systems have been used in a number of countries, particularly in Europe, as a method to improve flow and increase safety. VSLs use detectors to collect data on current traffic and/or weather conditions. Posted speed limits ...

A smartphone-based prototype system for incident/work zone management driven by crowd-sourced data.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2015-02-01

This project develops a smartphone-based prototype system that supplements the 511 system to improve its dynamic traffic : routing service to state highway users under non-recurrent congestion. This system will save considerable time to provide cruci...

Integrated risk management for improving internal traffic control, work-zone safety, and mobility during major construction.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2012-10-01

Highway construction is among the most dangerous industries in the US. Internal traffic control design, along with how construction : equipment and vehicles interact with the traveling public, have a significant effect on how safe a highway construct...

Using the Schur Complement to Reduce Runtime in KULL's Magnetic Diffusion Package

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

Brunner, T A; Kolev, T V

2010-12-15

Recently a Resistive Magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) package has been added to the KULL code. In order to be compatible with the underlying hydrodynamics algorithm, a new sub-zonal magnetics discretization was developed that supports arbitrary polygonal and polyhedral zones. This flexibility comes at the cost of many more unknowns per zone - approximately ten times more for a hexahedral mesh. We can eliminate some (or all, depending on the dimensionality) of the extra unknowns from the global matrix during assembly by using a Schur complement approach. This trades expensive global work for cache-friendly local work, while still allowing solution for the fullmore » system. Significant improvements in the solution time are observed for several test problems.« less

Using a two-step matrix solution to reduce the run time in KULL's magnetic diffusion package

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

Brunner, T A; Kolev, T V

2010-12-17

Recently a Resistive Magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) package has been added to the KULL code. In order to be compatible with the underlying hydrodynamics algorithm, a new sub-zonal magnetics discretization was developed that supports arbitrary polygonal and polyhedral zones. This flexibility comes at the cost of many more unknowns per zone - approximately ten times more for a hexahedral mesh. We can eliminate some (or all, depending on the dimensionality) of the extra unknowns from the global matrix during assembly by using a Schur complement approach. This trades expensive global work for cache-friendly local work, while still allowing solution for the fullmore » system. Significant improvements in the solution time are observed for several test problems.« less

An Improved Statistical Solution for Global Seismicity by the HIST-ETAS Approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chu, A.; Ogata, Y.; Katsura, K.

2010-12-01

For long-term global seismic model fitting, recent work by Chu et al. (2010) applied the spatial-temporal ETAS model (Ogata 1998) and analyzed global data partitioned into tectonic zones based on geophysical characteristics (Bird 2003), and it has shown tremendous improvements of model fitting compared with one overall global model. While the ordinary ETAS model assumes constant parameter values across the complete region analyzed, the hierarchical space-time ETAS model (HIST-ETAS, Ogata 2004) is a newly introduced approach by proposing regional distinctions of the parameters for more accurate seismic prediction. As the HIST-ETAS model has been fit to regional data of Japan (Ogata 2010), our work applies the model to describe global seismicity. Employing the Akaike's Bayesian Information Criterion (ABIC) as an assessment method, we compare the MLE results with zone divisions considered to results obtained by an overall global model. Location dependent parameters of the model and Gutenberg-Richter b-values are optimized, and seismological interpretations are discussed.

Forecasting the impact of transport improvements on commuting and residential choice

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elhorst, J. Paul; Oosterhaven, Jan

2006-03-01

This paper develops a probabilistic, competing-destinations, assignment model that predicts changes in the spatial pattern of the working population as a result of transport improvements. The choice of residence is explained by a new non-parametric model, which represents an alternative to the popular multinominal logit model. Travel times between zones are approximated by a normal distribution function with different mean and variance for each pair of zones, whereas previous models only use average travel times. The model’s forecast error of the spatial distribution of the Dutch working population is 7% when tested on 1998 base-year data. To incorporate endogenous changes in its causal variables, an almost ideal demand system is estimated to explain the choice of transport mode, and a new economic geography inter-industry model (RAEM) is estimated to explain the spatial distribution of employment. In the application, the model is used to forecast the impact of six mutually exclusive Dutch core-periphery railway proposals in the projection year 2020.

Driver responses to differing urban work zone configurations.

PubMed

Morgan, J F; Duley, A R; Hancock, P A

2010-05-01

This study reports the results of a simulator-based assessment of driver response to two different urban highway work zone configurations. One configuration represented an existing design which was contrasted with a second configuration that presented a reduced taper length prototype work zone design. Twenty-one drivers navigated the two different work zones in two different conditions, one with and one without a lead vehicle; in this case a bus. Measures of driver speed, braking, travel path, and collision frequency were recorded. Drivers navigated significantly closer to the boundary of the work area in the reduced taper length design. This proximity effect was moderated by the significant interaction between lead vehicle and taper length and such interactive effects were also observed for driver speed at the end of the work zone and the number of collisions observed within the work zone itself. These results suggest that reduced taper length poses an increase in risk to both drivers and work zone personnel, primarily when driver anticipation is reduced by foreshortened viewing distances. Increase in such risk is to a degree offset by the reduction of overall exposure to the work zone that a foreshortened taper creates. The benefits and limitations to a simulation-based approach to the assessment and prediction of driver behavior in different work zone configurations are also discussed. Copyright (c) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Active Work Zone Safety Using Emerging Technologies 2017.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-07-01

Highway construction work zones are hazardous environments characterized by a dynamic and limited work space. A host of interactions between workers, passing commuter vehicles, and moving construction equipment occurs in highway work zones fostering ...

In-vehicle work zone messages : final report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-06-01

Work zones present an increased risk to drivers and the work crew. To mitigate these risks, this study investigated the : potential effects of in-vehicle messages to communicate work zone events to the driver. The researchers conducted : literature r...

Depth-related response of macroinvertebrates to the reversal of eutrophication in a Mediterranean lake: Implications for ecological assessment.

PubMed

Bazzanti, Marcello; Mastrantuono, Luciana; Pilotto, Francesca

2017-02-01

A better management of nutrient inflows into lakes has led to an improvement in their conditions (i.e. reversal of eutrophication) and the effects of this on macroinvertebrate communities that inhabit different lake-depth zones is largely unknown. This paper reports a comparison of macroinvertebrate communities living in the eulittoral, infralittoral and sublittoral/profundal zones of Lake Nemi (Central Italy) before and after its natural recovery from eutrophication following the deviation of domestic wastewater. The infralittoral zone responded more rapidly than the other two depth-zones to the improved ecological conditions, as shown by larger differences in community composition between the two periods. In the eulittoral sand, the combined effects of hydromorphological pressures and reversal of eutrophication hindered the biotic response. In the eulittoral and infralittoral zones, typical taxa of mesotrophic waters appeared or increased their abundances after the eutrophication reversal. Benthic invertebrate response was slower in the sublittoral/profundal zone due to deoxygenation that continued to prevail in the deepest area of the lake during summer. However, both tolerant and more sensitive taxa were collected there for the first time. After the reversal of eutrophication, the percentage of molluscan+large crustaceans increased in the infralittoral zone, whereas the oligochaete/chironomid ratio decreased in both sublittoral/profundal and infralittoral zones. Functional feeding metrics (percentages of filter-feeders, collector-gatherers, miners and scrapers/grazers) differently tracked the reversal of eutrophication in the three depth-zones probably according to the effects of the reduction of nutrients on food-web structure influencing macroinvertebrates. Biological Monitoring Working Party (BMWP) and the Average Score Per Taxon (ASPT) seemed to respond to eutrophication reversal only in the sublittoral/profundal zone, where deoxygenation plays a major role as a structuring agent of the community. Our results suggest that the effects of reversal of eutrophication can be better assessed by examining the response of the communities belonging to each zone individually. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Iowa Work Zone Fatalities

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-01-01

From March through November, the Iowa DOT may have up to 500 road construction work zones, and each of the department's maintenance garages may establish one or more short-term work zones per day. Couple that with the work of cities and counties, and...

Generalized Pseudo-Reaction Zone Model for Non-Ideal Explosives

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wescott, B. L.

2007-12-01

The pseudo-reaction zone model was proposed to improve engineering scale simulations with high explosives that have a slow reaction component. In this work an extension of the pseudo-reaction zone model is developed for non-ideal explosives that propagate well below the steady-planar Chapman-Jouguet velocity. A programmed burn method utilizing Detonation Shock Dynamics (DSD) and a detonation velocity dependent pseudo-reaction rate has been developed for non-ideal explosives and applied to the explosive mixture of ammonium nitrate and fuel oil (ANFO). The pseudo-reaction rate is calibrated to the experimentally obtained normal detonation velocity—shock curvature relation. Cylinder test simulations predict the proper expansion to within 1% even though significant reaction occurs as the cylinder expands.

Crash characteristics at work zones.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2002-01-01

Work zones tend to cause hazardous conditions for drivers and construction workers since they generate conflicts between construction activities and traffic. A clear understanding of the characteristics of work zone crashes will enhance the selection...

Fine-tuning structural RNA alignments in the twilight zone.

PubMed

Bremges, Andreas; Schirmer, Stefanie; Giegerich, Robert

2010-04-30

A widely used method to find conserved secondary structure in RNA is to first construct a multiple sequence alignment, and then fold the alignment, optimizing a score based on thermodynamics and covariance. This method works best around 75% sequence similarity. However, in a "twilight zone" below 55% similarity, the sequence alignment tends to obscure the covariance signal used in the second phase. Therefore, while the overall shape of the consensus structure may still be found, the degree of conservation cannot be estimated reliably. Based on a combination of available methods, we present a method named planACstar for improving structure conservation in structural alignments in the twilight zone. After constructing a consensus structure by alignment folding, planACstar abandons the original sequence alignment, refolds the sequences individually, but consistent with the consensus, aligns the structures, irrespective of sequence, by a pure structure alignment method, and derives an improved sequence alignment from the alignment of structures, to be re-submitted to alignment folding, etc.. This circle may be iterated as long as structural conservation improves, but normally, one step suffices. Employing the tools ClustalW, RNAalifold, and RNAforester, we find that for sequences with 30-55% sequence identity, structural conservation can be improved by 10% on average, with a large variation, measured in terms of RNAalifold's own criterion, the structure conservation index.

Work zone intrusion alarm effectiveness.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-09-01

16. Abstract : The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) commissioned a study to evaluate how : effective a work zone safety device known as the SonoBlaster! Work Zone Intrusion Alarm would be : in protecting maintenance workers fro...

Research notes : helping businesses in work zones.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2001-03-01

Many business owners fear that highway construction projects will significantly reduce traffic to their businesses. Customers complain about the difficulty in finding business driveways in work zones. Drivers are guided through most work zone using o...

Evaluation of Ohio work zone speed zones process.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2014-06-01

This report describes the methodology and results of analyses performed to determine the effectiveness of Ohio Department of Transportation processes for establishing work zone speed zones. Researchers observed motorists speed choice upstream of a...

Improving feeding powder distribution to the compaction zone in the roller compaction.

PubMed

Yu, Mingzhe; Omar, Chalak; Schmidt, Alexander; Litster, James D; Salman, Agba D

2018-07-01

In the roller compaction process, powder flow properties have a significant influence on the uniformity of the ribbon properties. The objective of this work was to improve the powder flow in the feeding zone by developing novel feeding guiders which are located in the feeding zone close to the rollers in the roller compactor (side sealing system). Three novel feeding guiders were designed by 3D printing and used in the roller compactor, aiming to control the amount of powder passing across the roller width. The new feeding guiders were used to guide more powder to the sides between the rollers and less powder to the centre comparing to the original feeding elements. Temperature profile and porosity across the ribbon width indicated the uniformity of the ribbon properties. Using the novel feeding guiders resulted in producing ribbons with uniform temperature profile and porosity distribution across the ribbon width. The design of the feeding guiders contributed to improving the tensile strength of the ribbons produced from the compaction stage as well as reducing the fines produced from the crushing stage. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Implementing speed reductions at specific interstate work zones from 65 mph to 35 mph : final report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-02-01

Interstate preservation projects are commonly conducted at night and often require working in close proximity to ongoing traffic. Vehicle speed and speed variability in work zones is inextricably connected to the work zone design and the selected tra...

Design and simulation of high resolution optical imaging system based on near-field using solid immersion lens with NA = 2.2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abbasian, Karim; Sadeghi, Rasool; Sadeghi, Parvin

2014-03-01

In this work, by changing annular aperture zones transmittance, we could get a spot size smaller than any reported one by utilizing annular aperture. Where, by dividing the annular aperture to more than three zones and utilizing of Sony corporation Produced SIL that has NA higher than 2, we could improve imaging resolution for radial polarization (RP); also we could decrease the FWHM from around ? to near ?. Here, the FWHM variation, according to the refractive index changing, has decreased to zero for RP. After that, circular polarization (CP) has been introduced to get a spot size less than ?. This image resolution improving can be applied to enhance optical data storage, microscopes and lithographic and other high accurate optical systems.

Work zone safety analysis.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-11-01

This report presents research performed analyzing crashes in work zones in the state of New Jersey so as to : identify critical areas in work zones susceptible to crashes and key factors that contribute to these crashes. A field : data collection on ...

Traffic flow characteristic and capacity in intelligent work zones.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-10-15

Intellgent transportation system (ITS) technologies are utilized to manage traffic flow and safety in : highway work zones. Traffic management plans for work zones require queuing analyses to determine : the anticipated traffic backups, but the predi...

Examining the impact of ASE (automated speed enforcement) in work zones on driver attention : final report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-01-01

Each year, there are over 500 fatal crashes in work zones in the U.S., with over 100 road construction workers : killed on work sites (NSC, 2011; FARS, 2011). Speed and distraction are among the top contributing factors to : work zone crashes (Garber...

Implementing speed reductions at specific interstate work zones from 65 mph to 35 mph : appendices to final report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-02-01

Interstate preservation projects are commonly conducted at night and often require working in close proximity to ongoing traffic. Vehicle speed and speed variability in work zones is inextricably connected to the work zone design and the selected tra...

Monitoring work zone safety and mobility impacts in Texas.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-05-01

In this report, Texas Transportation Institute researchers identify key work zone safety and mobility : performance measures that the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) should target as part of a work : zone monitoring program within a distri...

Modeling merging behavior at lane drops.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2015-02-01

In work-zone configurations where lane drops are present, merging of traffic at the taper presents an operational concern. In : addition, as flow through the work zone is reduced, the relative traffic safety of the work zone is also reduced. Improvin...

Calibration of highway safety manual work zone crash modification factors.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2014-06-01

The Highway Safety Manual is the national safety manual that provides quantitative methods for analyzing highway safety. The : HSM presents crash modification factors related to work zone characteristics such as work zone duration and length. These c...

Work zone performance measures pilot test.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-04-01

Currently, a well-defined and validated set of metrics to use in monitoring work zone performance do not : exist. This pilot test was conducted to assist state DOTs in identifying what work zone performance : measures can and should be targeted, what...

Work Zone Intrusion Report Interface Design

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2018-02-02

While necessary for roadways, work zones present a safety risk to crew. Half of road workers deaths between 2005 and 2010 were due to collisions with motorists intruding on the work zone. Therefore, addressing intrusions is an important step for ensu...

Portable positive protection : a guide for short duration and short term work zones.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-06-01

Transportation agencies, contractors, researchers, and private vendors are actively looking for new methods and devices : to help make construction and maintenance work zones safer while maximizing mobility. Short-term and short-duration : work zones...

Work zone performance monitoring application development, research summary.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-10-01

In 2004, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) updated the work zone regulations to encourage the collection and use of work zone safety and mobility data (23 CFR 630 Subpart J). The new rule essentially requires agencies to use data to generate ...

Evaluation of variable advisory speed limits in work zones.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-08-01

Variable advisory speed limit (VASL) systems could be effective at both urban and rural work zones, at both uncongested and congested sites. At uncongested urban work zones, the average speeds with VASL were lower than without VASL. But the standard ...

23 CFR 630.1104 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

...-aid highway funding. Exposure Control Measures means traffic management strategies to avoid work zone crashes involving workers and motorized traffic by eliminating or reducing traffic through the work zone... including uniformed law enforcement officers, used to reduce the risk of work zone crashes involving...

23 CFR 630.1104 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

...-aid highway funding. Exposure Control Measures means traffic management strategies to avoid work zone crashes involving workers and motorized traffic by eliminating or reducing traffic through the work zone... including uniformed law enforcement officers, used to reduce the risk of work zone crashes involving...

23 CFR 630.1104 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

...-aid highway funding. Exposure Control Measures means traffic management strategies to avoid work zone crashes involving workers and motorized traffic by eliminating or reducing traffic through the work zone... including uniformed law enforcement officers, used to reduce the risk of work zone crashes involving...

23 CFR 630.1104 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

...-aid highway funding. Exposure Control Measures means traffic management strategies to avoid work zone crashes involving workers and motorized traffic by eliminating or reducing traffic through the work zone... including uniformed law enforcement officers, used to reduce the risk of work zone crashes involving...

23 CFR 630.1104 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

...-aid highway funding. Exposure Control Measures means traffic management strategies to avoid work zone crashes involving workers and motorized traffic by eliminating or reducing traffic through the work zone... including uniformed law enforcement officers, used to reduce the risk of work zone crashes involving...

Development of a guideline for work zone diversion rate and capacity reduction.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-03-01

This study develops a comprehensive guideline to estimate the traffic diversion rates and capacity reduction for : work zones. The analysis of the traffic diversion patterns with data from past work zones in the metro freeway : network in Minnesota r...

Capacity and road user cost analysis of selected freeway work zones in Texas.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-09-01

This research was developed to produce usable and meaningful estimates for work zone capacities under a variety of roadway and traffic conditions, work zone configurations, and lane closure scenarios within Texas. Using data collected at eighteen wor...

Estimation of traffic impacts at work zones : state of the practice.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2006-01-01

Assessing the safety and mobility impacts of work zones across the project development phases of road construction and maintenance projects is an emphasis area of the Federal Highway Administration's Final Rule on Work Zone Safety and Mobility1 (Fina...

Evaluation of work zone split traffic symbol sign : final report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-08-01

Effective signage that is easy to understand facilitates safe driving through a work zone. While the guidance for work zone signage in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) is suitable for many conditions, there may be instances where...

Missouri work zone capacity : results of field data analysis.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-06-01

This report presents the results of work zone field data analyzed on interstate highways in Missouri to : determine the mean breakdown and queue-discharge flow rates as measures of capacity. Several days of : traffic data collected at a work zone nea...

Studies to assess the impact of nighttime work zone lighting on motorists.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-05-01

This report describes the methodology and results of analyses performed to assess the impact of work zone lighting on motorists. Field studies were conducted to provide insight into how drivers eyes react to typical temporary work zone lighting co...

Missouri Work Zone Capacity : Results of Field Data Analysis

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-06-01

This report presents the results of work zone field data analyzed on interstate highways in Missouri to determine : the mean breakdown and queue-discharge flow rates as measures of capacity. Several days of traffic data : collected at a work zone nea...

Balancing the costs of mobility investments in work zones : phase 1 final report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2015-06-01

Work zone safety and mobility continue to be critical transportation concerns in Michigan and elsewhere. : Previous research has led to the development of a variety of tools, performance measures and decision-making frameworks to analyze work zone sa...

Influence of Laser Power on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of a Laser Welded-Brazed Mg Alloy/Ni-Coated Steel Dissimilar Joint

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tan, Caiwang; Xiao, Liyuan; Liu, Fuyun; Chen, Bo; Song, Xiaoguo; Li, Liqun; Feng, Jicai

2017-05-01

In this work, we describe a method to improve the bonding of an immiscible Mg/steel system using Ni as an interlayer by coating it on the steel surface. Laser welding-brazing of AZ31B Mg alloy to Ni-coated Q235 steel using Mg-based filler was performed in a lap configuration. The influence of laser power on the weld characteristics, including joint appearance, formation of interfacial reaction layers and mechanical properties was investigated. The results indicated that the presence of the Ni-coating promoted the wetting of the liquid filler metal on the steel surface. A thermal gradient along the interface led to the formation of heterogeneous interfacial reaction layers. When using a low laser power of 1600 W, the reaction products were an FeAl phase in the direct laser irradiation zone, an AlNi phase close to the intermediate zone and mixtures of AlNi phase and an (α-Mg + Mg2Ni) eutectic structure near the interface at the seam head zone. For high powers of more than 2000 W, the FeAl phase grew thicker in the direct laser irradiation zone and a new Fe(Ni) transition layer formed at the interface of the intermediate zone and the seam head zone. However, the AlNi phase and (α-Mg + Mg2Ni) eutectic structure were scattered at the Mg seam. All the joints fractured at the fusion zone, indicating that the improved interface was not the weakest joint region. The maximum tensile-shear strength of the Mg/Ni-coated steel joint reached 190 N/mm, and the joint efficiency was 70% with respect to the Mg alloy base metal.

Evaluation of work zone safety operations and issues.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2006-03-01

Work zone activities are one of the areas with a high potential for compromised safety for workers and road users. Various measures have been taken to increase the level of safety in work zones; including the use of double fines for speeding and the ...

Traffic analysis toolbox volume IX : work zone modeling and simulation, a guide for analysts

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-03-01

This document is the second volume in the FHWA Traffic Analysis Toolbox: Work Zone Analysis series. Whereas the first volume provides guidance to decision-makers at agencies and jurisdictions considering the role of analytical tools in work zone plan...

Mobile machine hazardous working zone warning system

DOEpatents

Schiffbauer, William H.; Ganoe, Carl W.

1999-01-01

A warning system is provided for a mobile working machine to alert an individual of a potentially dangerous condition in the event the individual strays into a hazardous working zone of the machine. The warning system includes a transmitter mounted on the machine and operable to generate a uniform magnetic field projecting beyond an outer periphery of the machine in defining a hazardous working zone around the machine during operation thereof. A receiver, carried by the individual and activated by the magnetic field, provides an alarm signal to alert the individual when he enters the hazardous working zone of the machine.

Mobile machine hazardous working zone warning system

DOEpatents

Schiffbauer, W.H.; Ganoe, C.W.

1999-08-17

A warning system is provided for a mobile working machine to alert an individual of a potentially dangerous condition in the event the individual strays into a hazardous working zone of the machine. The warning system includes a transmitter mounted on the machine and operable to generate a uniform magnetic field projecting beyond an outer periphery of the machine in defining a hazardous working zone around the machine during operation. A receiver, carried by the individual and activated by the magnetic field, provides an alarm signal to alert the individual when he enters the hazardous working zone of the machine. 3 figs.

A qualitative investigation into the usefulness and impact of the performance intervention zone system used in the diagnostic assessment of internationally educated massage therapists.

PubMed

Finch, Paul; Baskwill, Amanda

2011-04-01

Previous work (Finch, 2008) reported on the development and implementation of a safety oriented system of performance intervention zones (PIZ), which was used in the assessment of internationally educated massage therapists. The study reported in this paper explores the usefulness and impact of the system as experienced by the evaluators involved in the diagnostic assessment. This exploratory research was of a qualitative design in which data were collected during a series of individual semi-structured interviews with evaluators who used the performance intervention zone system during the diagnostic assessment of internationally educated massage therapists in Ontario. After obtaining informed consent, interviews were taped, transcribed and analyzed, resulting in identification of a number of themes and recommendations regarding future use and development of the system. Analysis revealed four themes within the data. These were that the performance intervention zone system 1) enhanced the confidence of examiners in their ability to conduct the comprehensive clinical examination effectively, 2) assisted and improved examiner decision making during the examination, 3) was a useful aid to communication regarding candidate performance, and 4) could be improved by clarifying the nature of intervention and implementing more extensive examiner training prior to the examination. The performance intervention zone system was found to be useful in orienting examiners to the evaluation process, in supporting decision making during the comprehensive clinical evaluation and as an aid to communication in the post-examination review of candidate performance. The system could be improved through implementation of a pre-examination workshop focused on use of the PIZ and by delineation of levels of examiner intervention during the examination. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Best practices for maximizing driver attention to work zone warning signs.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-05-01

Studies have shown that rear-end crashes in the advance warning area for a work zone are the most common type of work zone crashes. Driver inattention (or distraction) is reported as the most common issue and a major contributing factor to those type...

Evaluation of innovative traffic safety devices at short-term work zones.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-08-01

The objective of this study was to investigate and evaluate the usage and effectiveness of innovative traffic control : devices that can be used in short-term work zones. Any device to be used in short-term work zones should command : the respect of ...

Evaluation of technology-enhanced flagger devices : focus group and survey studies in Kansas.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-04-01

Flagger-controlled work zones, by their very nature tend to utilize fewer traffic control measures than other work zones. Often these work zones are in place for only a short duration of time, so adding signing or positive protection beyond the minim...

23 CFR 630.1012 - Project-level procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... PRECONSTRUCTION PROCEDURES Work Zone Safety and Mobility § 630.1012 Project-level procedures. (a) This section provides guidance and establishes procedures for States to manage the work zone impacts of individual projects. (b) Transportation Management Plan (TMP). A TMP consists of strategies to manage the work zone...

23 CFR 630.1012 - Project-level procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... PRECONSTRUCTION PROCEDURES Work Zone Safety and Mobility § 630.1012 Project-level procedures. (a) This section provides guidance and establishes procedures for States to manage the work zone impacts of individual projects. (b) Transportation Management Plan (TMP). A TMP consists of strategies to manage the work zone...

23 CFR 630.1012 - Project-level procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... PRECONSTRUCTION PROCEDURES Work Zone Safety and Mobility § 630.1012 Project-level procedures. (a) This section provides guidance and establishes procedures for States to manage the work zone impacts of individual projects. (b) Transportation Management Plan (TMP). A TMP consists of strategies to manage the work zone...

23 CFR 630.1012 - Project-level procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... PRECONSTRUCTION PROCEDURES Work Zone Safety and Mobility § 630.1012 Project-level procedures. (a) This section provides guidance and establishes procedures for States to manage the work zone impacts of individual projects. (b) Transportation Management Plan (TMP). A TMP consists of strategies to manage the work zone...

Optimizing work zones for highway maintenance with floating car data (FCD) : final report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2015-12-01

One of the main tools that the Department of Transportation (DOT) of each state in the United States should have to : support their work zone activities is a sound model that produces adequate work zone schedules for roadway maintenance : and constru...

Synthesis of research on work zone delays and simplified application of QuickZone analysis tool.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-03-01

The objectives of this project were to synthesize the latest information on work zone safety and management and identify case studies in which FHWAs decision support tool QuickZone or other appropriate analysis tools could be applied. The results ...

Implementation of Sustainable Soil Management Practices to Improve Crop Production in the Different Ethiopian Agro Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

García Moreno, R.; Gameda, S.; Diaz Alvarez, M. C.; Selasie, Y. G.

2012-04-01

Agriculture in Ethiopia is one of first priority since close to 10 In this context, the Ethiopian crop production faces to the following soil management challenges: lack of updated soil data, macro and micro nutrient depletion, acidity, salinity and soil surface erosion and crusting. One of the biggest issues is the loss of arable land, above 137 T/yr, reaching during some particularly dried periods until 300 T/yr. In this context, the authors constituted a working group of experts from Spanish and Ethiopian universities, local producers and international and governmental organisms to analyse the problems related to the different agro ecological zones found in Ethiopia and the management practices of different local producers. The study produced the trends to implement in the different areas to improve soil management practices in order to contribute to increase the crop production mainly to achieve food security problems. The analyse produced different working fields for the next years for addressing soil degradation, improving land resources management practices, increasing agricultural productivity, updating the available soil data, developing an international program of education, transferring of knowledge from similar study cases and implementing economical tools to help producers to assure income after severe edapho-climatic events. The practical work and the projects developed for the next period is addressed to smallholder farms belonging to the different 34 agro ecological zones identified in Ethiopia, each of them with very specific environmental, cultural and soil management practices.

Fine-tuning structural RNA alignments in the twilight zone

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Background A widely used method to find conserved secondary structure in RNA is to first construct a multiple sequence alignment, and then fold the alignment, optimizing a score based on thermodynamics and covariance. This method works best around 75% sequence similarity. However, in a "twilight zone" below 55% similarity, the sequence alignment tends to obscure the covariance signal used in the second phase. Therefore, while the overall shape of the consensus structure may still be found, the degree of conservation cannot be estimated reliably. Results Based on a combination of available methods, we present a method named planACstar for improving structure conservation in structural alignments in the twilight zone. After constructing a consensus structure by alignment folding, planACstar abandons the original sequence alignment, refolds the sequences individually, but consistent with the consensus, aligns the structures, irrespective of sequence, by a pure structure alignment method, and derives an improved sequence alignment from the alignment of structures, to be re-submitted to alignment folding, etc.. This circle may be iterated as long as structural conservation improves, but normally, one step suffices. Conclusions Employing the tools ClustalW, RNAalifold, and RNAforester, we find that for sequences with 30-55% sequence identity, structural conservation can be improved by 10% on average, with a large variation, measured in terms of RNAalifold's own criterion, the structure conservation index. PMID:20433706

78 FR 77597 - Safety Zone; Allied PRA-Solid Works, San Diego Bay; San Diego, CA

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-12-24

...-AA00 Safety Zone; Allied PRA-Solid Works, San Diego Bay; San Diego, CA AGENCY: Coast Guard, DHS. ACTION... the Allied PRA--Solid Works fireworks display, which will be conducted from a barge located southwest... Works; San Diego, CA. (a) Location. The limits of the safety zone will include all the navigable waters...

Use of police in work zones on highways in Virginia.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2003-01-01

It is generally accepted that one of the most effective ways of controlling speed in a work zone is to have a staffed police car positioned at the beginning of the work zone with its lights flashing and radar on. Drivers detect the presence of police...

Evaluation of innovative traffic safety devices at short-term work zones : technical summary.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-08-01

The objective of this study was to investigate and evaluate the usage and effectiveness of innovative traffic control devices that can be used in short-term work zones. Any device to be used in short-term work zones should command the respect of driv...

Evaluation of data from test application of optical speed bars to highway work zones

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2004-08-01

The proximity of traffic and workers in highway work zones demand that safety be a high priority. : The issue of traffic speeds in highway work zones has long been an issue receiving much attention. Over the : past three decades, many different measu...

Scheduling work zones in multi-modal networks phase 1: scheduling work zones in transportation service networks.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-06-01

The purpose of this project is to study the optimal scheduling of work zones so that they have minimum negative impact (e.g., travel delay, gas consumption, accidents, etc.) on transport service vehicle flows. In this project, a mixed integer linear ...

Evaluation of a real-time travel time prediction system in a freeway construction work zone : executive summary.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2001-03-01

A real-time travel time prediction system (TIPS) was evaluated in a construction work : zone. TIPS includes changeable message signs (CMSs) displaying the travel time and : distance to the end of the work zone to motorists. The travel times displayed...

Analysis of Truck Drivers' Opinions on Safety and Traffic Control on Highway Work Zones - Volume I - Summary of Findings - Final Report

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1995-12-01

This study was conducted to determine the truck drivers' travel characteristics, concerns about work zone traffic control devices, assessment of work zone features, as well as to determine the location of accidents and bad driving situations based on...

Analysis of Truck Drivers' Opinions on Safety and Traffic Control on Highway Work Zones - Volume II - Final Report

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1995-12-01

This study was conducted to determine the truck drivers' travel characteristics, concerns about work zone traffic control devices, assessment of work zone features, as well as to determine the location of accidents and bad driving situations based on...

Reduction of speed in work zones using ITS DMS instant feedback to drivers : vehicle speed versus traffic fine.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2014-08-01

Accidents in work zones produced 17 fatalities in Arizona and 840 fatalities and over 40,000 injuries : nationally in 2009. Motorists nationwide can expect to drive through one active work zone for every 100 : miles driven on the National Highway Sys...

Evaluation Of Traffic Control Devices For Rural High-Speed Maintenance Work Zones: Second Year Activities And Final Recommendations

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2000-10-01

This report documents the second year of a two-year project to evaluate the effectiveness of innovative work zone traffic control devices. Researchers evaluated these devices at short-term rural work zones. During the second year of the project, seve...

Optimization of Highway Work Zone Decisions Considering Short-Term and Long-Term Impacts

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-01-01

strategies which can minimize the one-time work zone cost. Considering the complex and combinatorial nature of this optimization problem, a heuristic...combination of lane closure and traffic control strategies which can minimize the one-time work zone cost. Considering the complex and combinatorial nature ...zone) NV # the number of vehicle classes NPV $ Net Present Value p’(t) % Adjusted traffic diversion rate at time t p(t) % Natural diversion rate

Transcrystalline interphases in natural fiber-PP composites: effect of coupling agent

Treesearch

A.R. Sanadi; D.F. Caulfield

2000-01-01

The interest in lignocellulosic fiber composites has been growing in recent years because of their high specific properties. In this work, a new technique was used to prepare specimen to observe the transcrystalline zones in kenaf fiber-polypropylene composites. A maleated polypropylene (MAPP) coupling agent was used to improve the stress-transfer efficiency in the...

Writing Removal and Resistance: Native American Rhetoric in the Composition Classroom

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cole, Daniel

2011-01-01

This essay describes my design and implementation of a composition course focused on the Native American rhetorical device of survivance at work in debates on Indian removal and U.S.-Indian relations in general. Using a contact zone approach, I found that the course improved writing and thinking skills by pushing students out of their ideological…

Fatal accidents in nighttime vs. daytime highway construction work zones.

PubMed

Arditi, David; Lee, Dong-Eun; Polat, Gul

2007-01-01

Awareness about worker safety in nighttime construction has been a major concern because it is believed that nighttime construction creates hazardous work conditions. However, only a few studies provide valuable comparative information about accident characteristics of nighttime and daytime highway construction activities. This study investigates fatal accidents that occurred in Illinois highway work zones in the period 1996-2001 in order to determine the safety differences between nighttime and daytime highway construction. The lighting and weather conditions were included into the study as control parameters to see their effects on the frequency of fatal accidents occurring in work zones. According to this study, there is evidence that nighttime construction is more hazardous than daytime construction. The inclusion of a weather parameter into the analysis has limited effect on this finding. The study justifies establishing an efficient work zone accident reporting system and taking all necessary measures to enhance safety in nighttime work zones.

Heavy metals found in the breathing zone, toenails and lung function of welders working in an air-conditioned welding workplace.

PubMed

Hariri, Azian; Mohamad Noor, Noraishah; Paiman, Nuur Azreen; Ahmad Zaidi, Ahmad Mujahid; Zainal Bakri, Siti Farhana

2017-09-22

Welding operations are rarely conducted in an air-conditioned room. However, a company would set its welding operations in an air-conditioned room to maintain the humidity level needed to reduce hydrogen cracks in the specimen being welded. This study intended to assess the exposure to metal elements in the welders' breathing zone and toenail samples. Heavy metal concentration was analysed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The lung function test was also conducted and analysed using statistical approaches. Chromium and manganese concentrations in the breathing zone exceeded the permissible exposure limit stipulated by Malaysian regulations. A similar trend was obtained in the concentration of heavy metals in the breathing zone air sampling and in the welders' toenails. Although there was no statistically significant decrease in the lung function of welders, it is suggested that exposure control through engineering and administrative approaches should be considered for workplace safety and health improvement.

Improved assessment of accuracy and performance using a rotational paper-based device for multiplexed detection of heavy metals.

PubMed

Sun, Xiange; Li, Bowei; Qi, Anjin; Tian, Chongguo; Han, Jinglong; Shi, Yajun; Lin, Bingcheng; Chen, Lingxin

2018-02-01

In this work, a novel rotational microfluidic paper-based device was developed to improve the accuracy and performance of the multiplexed colorimetric detection by effectively avoiding the diffusion of colorimetric reagent on the detection zone. The integrated paper-based rotational valves were used to control the connection or disconnection between detection zones and fluid channels. Based on the manipulation of the rotational valves, this rotational paper-based device could prevent the random diffusion of colorimetric reagent and reduce the error of quantitative analysis considerably. The multiplexed colorimetric detection of heavy metals Ni(II), Cu(II) and Cr(VI) were implemented on the rotational device and the detection limits could be found to be 4.8, 1.6, and 0.18mg/L, respectively. The developed rotational device showed the great advantage in improving the detection accuracy and was expected to be a low-cost, portable analytical platform for the on-site detection. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

New inner boundaries of the habitable zones around M dwarfs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bin, Jiayu; Tian, Feng; Liu, Lei

2018-06-01

Two general circulation models CAM4 and CAM5 are used to study the climate of ocean planets around M dwarfs with different effective temperatures. The atmospheres in CAM5 simulations are warmer and contain more water vapor than those in CAM4 under identical model settings, a result likely caused by improved treatments of radiation and possibly clouds in CAM5. The inner boundary of the habitable zones of M dwarfs based on CAM5 simulations, expressed as a second order polynomial function, are farther away from the stars than what are suggested by previous works and the corresponding atmospheres are in the moist greenhouse state.

Negotiating respectability: migrant women workers' perceptions of relationships and sexuality in free trade zones in Sri Lanka.

PubMed

Jordal, Malin; Wijewardena, Kumudu; Ohman, Ann; Essén, Birgitta; Olsson, Pia

2014-01-01

Migration has implications for women's sexual and reproductive health and rights. Our purpose with this study was to explore unmarried migrant women's perceptions of relationships and sexuality in the context of Sri Lankan Free Trade Zones. Sixteen semi-structured qualitative interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis. We found that the women's perceptions were influenced by gendered hegemonic notions of respectability and virginity. Complex gender relations both worked in favor of and against women's sexual and reproductive health and rights. Programs for improvement of migrant women's health should be informed by contextualized analysis of gender relations with its various dimensions and levels.

A spatial ammonia emission inventory for pig farming

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rebolledo, Boris; Gil, Antonia; Pallarés, Javier

2013-01-01

Atmospheric emissions of ammonia (NH3) from the agricultural sector have become a significant environmental and public concern as they have impacts on human health and ecosystems. This work proposes an improved methodology in order to identify administrative regions with high NH3 emissions from pig farming and calculates an ammonia density map (kg NH3-N ha-1), based on the number of pigs and available agricultural land, terrain slopes, groundwater bodies, soil permeability, zones sensitive to nitrate pollution and surface water buffer zones. The methodology has been used to construct a general tool for locating ammonia emissions from pig farming when detailed information of livestock farms is not available.

Construction Project Administration and Management for Mitigating Work Zone Accidents and Fatalities: An Integrated Risk Management Model

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-10-01

The goal of this research is to mitigate the risk of highway accidents (crashes) and fatalities in work zones. The approach of this research has been to address the mitigation of work zone crashes through the creation of a formal risk management mode...

Evaluation of a real-time travel time prediction system in a freeway construction work zone : final report, March 2001.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2001-03-01

A real-time travel time prediction system (TIPS) was evaluated in a construction work zone. TIPS includes changeable message signs (CMSs) displaying the travel time and distance to the end of the work zone to motorists. The travel times displayed by ...

23 CFR 630.1106 - Policy and procedures for work zone safety management.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 23 Highways 1 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Policy and procedures for work zone safety management... Policy and procedures for work zone safety management. (a) Each agency's policy and processes, procedures... established in accordance with 23 CFR 630.1006, shall include the consideration and management of road user...

Modeling truck speed in the upstream of one-lane two-way highway work zones : implications on reducing truck-related crashes in work zones.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-07-01

Truck-related crashes constitute a major safety concern for government agencies, the construction industry, and the traveling public. Due to the rising needs in highway maintenance and construction, the number of work zones is increasing throughout t...

Land Use Controls and the Provision of Education. NBER Working Paper No. 17730

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hanushek, Eric A.; Yilmaz, Kuzey

2012-01-01

Considerable prior analysis has gone into the study of zoning restrictions on locational choice and on fiscal burdens. The prior work on zoning--particularly fiscal or exclusionary zoning--has provided both inconclusive theoretical results and quite inconsistent empirical support of the theory. More importantly, none of this work addresses…

Applications of CPL mask technology for sub-65nm gate imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Litt, Lloyd C.; Conley, Will; Wu, Wei; Peters, Richie; Parker, Colita; Cobb, Jonathan; Kasprowicz, Bryan S.; van den Broeke, Doug; Park, J. C.; Karur-Shanmugam, Ramkumar

2005-05-01

The requirements for critical dimension control on gate layer for high performance products are increasingly demanding. Phase shift techniques provide aerial image enhancement, which can translate into improved process window performance and greater critical dimension (CD) control if properly applied. Unfortunately, the application of hard shifter technology to production requires significant effort in layout and optical proximity correction (OPC) application. Chromeless Phase Lithography (CPL) has several advantages over complementary phase mask (c:PSM) such as use of a single mask, and lack of phase placement 'coloring' conflicts and phase imbalance issues. CPL does have implementation issues that must be resolved before it can be used in full-scale production. CPL mask designs can be approached by separating features into three zones based on several parameters, including size relative to the lithographic resolution of the stepper lens, wavelength, and illumination conditions defined. Features are placed into buckets for different treatment zones. Zone 1 features are constructed with 100% transmission phase shifted structures and Zone 3 features are chrome (binary) structures. Features that fall into Zone 2, which are too wide to be defined using the 100% transmission of pure CPL (i.e. have negative mask error factor, MEEF) are the most troublesome and can be approached in several ways. The authors have investigated the application of zebra structures of various sizes to product type layouts. Previous work to investigate CPL using test structures set the groundwork for the more difficult task of applying CPL rules to actual random logic design layouts, which include many zone transitions. Mask making limitations have been identified that play a role in the zebra sizing that can be applied to Zone 2 features. The elimination of Zone 2 regions was also investigated in an effort to simplify the application of CPL and improve manufacturability of reticle through data enhancements.

NASA Team Collaboration Pilot: Enabling NASA's Virtual Teams

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Prahst, Steve

2003-01-01

Most NASA projects and work activities are accomplished by teams of people. These teams are often geographically distributed - across NASA centers and NASA external partners, both domestic and international. NASA "virtual" teams are stressed by the challenge of getting team work done - across geographic boundaries and time zones. To get distributed work done, teams rely on established methods - travel, telephones, Video Teleconferencing (NASA VITS), and email. Time is our most critical resource - and team members are hindered by the overhead of travel and the difficulties of coordinating work across their virtual teams. Modern, Internet based team collaboration tools offer the potential to dramatically improve the ability of virtual teams to get distributed work done.

Multiple-source spatial data fusion and integration research in the region unified planning management information system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Zhijun; Zhang, Liangpei; Liu, Zhenmin; Jiao, Hongbo; Chen, Liqun

2008-12-01

In order to manage the internal resources of Gulf of Tonkin and integrate multiple-source spatial data, the establishment of region unified plan management system is needed. The data fusion and the integrated research should be carried on because there are some difficulties in the course of the system's establishment. For example, kinds of planning and the project data format are different, and data criterion is not unified. Besides, the time state property is strong, and spatial reference is inconsistent, etc. In this article the ARCGIS ENGINE is introduced as the developing platform, key technologies are researched, such as multiple-source data transformation and fusion, remote sensing data and DEM fusion and integrated, plan and project data integration, and so on. Practice shows that the system improves the working efficiency of Guangxi Gulf of Tonkin Economic Zone Management Committee significantly and promotes planning construction work of the economic zone remarkably.

Data-driven traffic impact assessment tool for work zones.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-03-01

Traditionally, traffic impacts of work zones have been assessed using planning software such as Quick Zone, custom spreadsheets, and others. These software programs generate delay, queuing, and other mobility measures but are difficult to validate du...

Assessment of air quality in and around a steel industry with direct reduction iron route.

PubMed

Jena, Pradip K; Behera, Dillip K; Mishra, C S K; Mohanty, Saswat K

2011-10-01

The coal based Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) route for secondary steel production is now a preferred choice in India. Steel making is invariably associated with emission of air pollutants into the environment. Air quality monitoring was carried out in Winter, Summer and Rainy seasons of 2008 in eight monitoring stations in the work zone and five stations in the residential zone of an Integrated Steel Industry located in Orissa state, India. Four air quality parameters i.e. SPM, RSPM, SO2 and NO2 were monitored. Mean SPM and RSPM values were found to be significantly high (p < 0.01) at stations nearer to source in both work zone and residential zone .The highest average SPM and RSPM values in the work zone recorded were 4869 microg/m3 and 1420 microg/m3 and in the residential zone 294 microg/m3 and 198 microg/m3 respectively. No significant difference in the SO2 and NO2 levels was observed between the work and residential zones. In general, the values of air pollutants were highest in Winter followed by Summer and Rainy season. SPM and RSPM values exceeded the National Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) in both the residential and work zones.

Identifying potential disaster zones around the Verkhnekamskoye potash deposit (Russia) using advanced information technology (IT)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Royer, J. J.; Filippov, L. O.

2017-07-01

This work aims at improving the exploitation of the K, Mg, salts ore of the Verkhnekamskoye deposit using advanced information technology (IT) such as 3D geostatistical modeling techniques together with high performance flotation. It is expected to provide a more profitable exploitation of the actual deposit avoiding the formation of dramatic sinkholes by a better knowledge of the deposit. The GeoChron modelling method for sedimentary formations (Mallet, 2014) was used to improve the knowledge of the Verkhnekamskoye potash deposit, Perm region, Russia. After a short introduction on the modern theory of mathematical modelling applied to mineral resources exploitation and geology, new results are presented on the sedimentary architecture of the ore deposit. They enlighten the structural geology and the fault orientations, a key point for avoiding catastrophic water inflows recharging zone during exploitation. These results are important for avoiding catastrophic sinkholes during exploitation.

Systematic Improvement of Protein Crystals by Determining the Supersolubility Curves of Phase Diagrams

PubMed Central

Saridakis, Emmanuel; Chayen, Naomi E.

2003-01-01

A systematic approach for improving protein crystals by growing them in the metastable zone using the vapor diffusion technique is described. This is a simple technique for optimization of crystallization conditions. Screening around known conditions is performed to establish a working phase diagram for the crystallization of the protein. Dilutions of the crystallization drops across the supersolubility curve into the metastable zone are then carried out as follows: the coverslips holding the hanging drops are transferred, after being incubated for some time at conditions normally giving many small crystals, over reservoirs at concentrations which normally yield clear drops. Fewer, much larger crystals are obtained when the incubation times are optimized, compared with conventional crystallization at similar conditions. This systematic approach has led to the structure determination of the light-harvesting protein C-phycocyanin to the highest-ever resolution of 1.45 Å. PMID:12547801

Safety of stationary grinding machines - impact resistance of work zone enclosures.

PubMed

Mewes, Detlef; Adler, Christian

2017-09-01

Guards on machine tools are intended to protect persons from being injured by parts ejected with high kinetic energy from the work zone of the machine. Stationary grinding machines are a typical example. Generally such machines are provided with abrasive product guards closely enveloping the grinding wheel. However, many machining tasks do not allow the use of abrasive product guards. In such cases, the work zone enclosure has to be dimensioned so that, in case of failure, grinding wheel fragments remain inside the machine's working zone. To obtain data for the dimensioning of work zone enclosures on stationary grinding machines, which must be operated without an abrasive product guard, burst tests were conducted with vitrified grinding wheels. The studies show that, contrary to widely held opinion, narrower grinding wheels can be more critical concerning the impact resistance than wider wheels although their fragment energy is smaller.

Recent Aspects on the Effect of Inclusion Characteristics on the Intragranular Ferrite Formation in Low Alloy Steels: A Review

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mu, Wangzhong; Jönsson, Pär Göran; Nakajima, Keiji

2017-04-01

Intragranular ferrite (IGF), which nucleates from specific inclusion surfaces in low alloy steels, is the desired microstructure to improve mechanical properties of steel such as the toughness. This microstructure is especially important in the coarse grain heat affected zone (CGHAZ) of weldments. The latest review paper focusing on the role of non-metallic inclusions in the IGF formation in steels has been reported by Sarma et al. in 2009 (ISIJ int., 49(2009), 1063-1074). In recent years, large amount of papers have been presented to investigate different issues of this topic. This paper mainly highlights the frontiers of experimental and theoretical investigations on the effects of inclusion characteristics, such as the composition, size distribution and number density, on the IGF formation in low carbon low-alloyed steels, undertaken by the group of Applied Process Metallurgy, KTH Royal Institute of Technology. Related results reported in previous studies are also introduced. Also, plausible future work regarding various items of IGF formation is mentioned in each section. This work aims to give a better control of improving the steel quality during casting and in the heat affected zone (HAZ) of weldment, according to the concept of oxide metallurgy.

Evaluation of work zone enhancement software programs.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-09-01

The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) is looking for software tools that can assist in : developing effective plans to manage and communicate work zone activities. QuickZone, CA4PRS, : VISSIM, and Spreadsheet models are the tools that MoD...

Mapping porosity of the deep critical zone in 3D using near-surface geophysics, rock physics modeling, and drilling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Flinchum, B. A.; Holbrook, W. S.; Grana, D.; Parsekian, A.; Carr, B.; Jiao, J.

2017-12-01

Porosity is generated by chemical, physical and biological processes that work to transform bedrock into soil. The resulting porosity structure can provide specifics about these processes and can improve understanding groundwater storage in the deep critical zone. Near-surface geophysical methods, when combined with rock physics and drilling, can be a tool used to map porosity over large spatial scales. In this study, we estimate porosity in three-dimensions (3D) across a 58 Ha granite catchment. Observations focus on seismic refraction, downhole nuclear magnetic resonance logs, downhole sonic logs, and samples of core acquired by push coring. We use a novel petrophysical approach integrating two rock physics models, a porous medium for the saprolite and a differential effective medium for the fractured rock, that drive a Bayesian inversion to calculate porosity from seismic velocities. The inverted geophysical porosities are within about 0.05 m3/m3 of lab measured values. We extrapolate the porosity estimates below seismic refraction lines to a 3D volume using ordinary kriging to map the distribution of porosity in 3D up to depths of 80 m. This study provides a unique map of porosity on scale never-before-seen in critical zone science. Estimating porosity on these large spatial scales opens the door for improving and understanding the processes that shape the deep critical zone.

Optimizing the Terzaghi Estimator of the 3D Distribution of Rock Fracture Orientations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tang, Huiming; Huang, Lei; Juang, C. Hsein; Zhang, Junrong

2017-08-01

Orientation statistics are prone to bias when surveyed with the scanline mapping technique in which the observed probabilities differ, depending on the intersection angle between the fracture and the scanline. This bias leads to 1D frequency statistical data that are poorly representative of the 3D distribution. A widely accessible estimator named after Terzaghi was developed to estimate 3D frequencies from 1D biased observations, but the estimation accuracy is limited for fractures at narrow intersection angles to scanlines (termed the blind zone). Although numerous works have concentrated on accuracy with respect to the blind zone, accuracy outside the blind zone has rarely been studied. This work contributes to the limited investigations of accuracy outside the blind zone through a qualitative assessment that deploys a mathematical derivation of the Terzaghi equation in conjunction with a quantitative evaluation that uses fractures simulation and verification of natural fractures. The results show that the estimator does not provide a precise estimate of 3D distributions and that the estimation accuracy is correlated with the grid size adopted by the estimator. To explore the potential for improving accuracy, the particular grid size producing maximum accuracy is identified from 168 combinations of grid sizes and two other parameters. The results demonstrate that the 2° × 2° grid size provides maximum accuracy for the estimator in most cases when applied outside the blind zone. However, if the global sample density exceeds 0.5°-2, then maximum accuracy occurs at a grid size of 1° × 1°.

Community Mental Health as a Population-based Mental Health Approach.

PubMed

Yuxuan Cai, Stefanie; Shuen Sheng Fung, Daniel

2016-01-01

Mental health services for youths in Singapore were challenged by accessibility and resource constraints. A community-based mental health program working with schools and other partners was developed to address the population needs. To describe the formation of a community-based mental health program and evaluate the program in terms of its outcome and the satisfaction of the users of this program. Based on needs analyses, a community multidisciplinary team was set up in 15 schools to pilot a new model of care for youths. Implemented progressively over five years, networks of teams were divided into four geographic zones. Each zone had clusters of 10 to 15 schools. These teams worked closely with school counselors. Teams were supported by a psychiatrist and a resident. Interventions were focused on empowering school-based personnel to work with students and families, with the support of the teams. 4,184 students were served of whom 10% were seen by the school counselors and supported by the community team. Only 0.15% required referral to tertiary services. Outcome measured by counselor and teacher ratings showed improvements in the Clinical Global Impression scale and Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. These included reductions in conduct problems, emotional problems, hyperactive behaviors and peer problems. Furthermore, prosocial behavior also significantly improved. Preliminary cost effectiveness analyses suggest that community treatments are superior to clinic interventions.

Development and testing of a compartmentalized reaction network model for redox zones in contaminated aquifers

USGS Publications Warehouse

Abrams , Robert H.; Loague, Keith; Kent, Douglas B.

1998-01-01

The work reported here is the first part of a larger effort focused on efficient numerical simulation of redox zone development in contaminated aquifers. The sequential use of various electron acceptors, which is governed by the energy yield of each reaction, gives rise to redox zones. The large difference in energy yields between the various redox reactions leads to systems of equations that are extremely ill-conditioned. These equations are very difficult to solve, especially in the context of coupled fluid flow, solute transport, and geochemical simulations. We have developed a general, rational method to solve such systems where we focus on the dominant reactions, compartmentalizing them in a manner that is analogous to the redox zones that are often observed in the field. The compartmentalized approach allows us to easily solve a complex geochemical system as a function of time and energy yield, laying the foundation for our ongoing work in which we couple the reaction network, for the development of redox zones, to a model of subsurface fluid flow and solute transport. Our method (1) solves the numerical system without evoking a redox parameter, (2) improves the numerical stability of redox systems by choosing which compartment and thus which reaction network to use based upon the concentration ratios of key constituents, (3) simulates the development of redox zones as a function of time without the use of inhibition factors or switching functions, and (4) can reduce the number of transport equations that need to be solved in space and time. We show through the use of various model performance evaluation statistics that the appropriate compartment choice under different geochemical conditions leads to numerical solutions without significant error. The compartmentalized approach described here facilitates the next phase of this effort where we couple the redox zone reaction network to models of fluid flow and solute transport.

Experimental investigation of aerodynamics, combustion, and emissions characteristics within the primary zone of a gas turbine combustor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elkady, Ahmed M.

2006-04-01

The present work investigates pollutant emissions production, mainly nitric oxides and carbon monoxide, within the primary zone of a highly swirling combustion and methods with which to reduce their formation. A baseline study was executed at different equivalence ratios and different inlet air temperatures. The study was then extended to investigate the effects of utilizing transverse air jets on pollutant emission characteristics at different jet locations, jet mass ratio, and overall equivalence ratio as well as to investigate the jets' overall interactions with the recirculation zone. A Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectrometer was employed to measure emissions concentrations generated during combustion of Jet-A fuel in a swirl-cup assembly. Laser Doppler Velocimetry (LDV) was employed to investigate the mean flow aerodynamics within the combustor. Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) was utilized to capture the instantaneous aerodynamic behavior of the non-reacting primary zone. Results illustrate that NOx production is a function of both the recirculation zone and the flame length. At low overall equivalence ratios, the recirculation zone is found to be the main producer of NOx. At near stoichiometric conditions, the post recirculation zone appears to be responsible for the majority of NOx produced. Results reveal the possibility of injecting air into the recirculation zone without altering flame stability to improve emission characteristics. Depending on the jet location and strength, nitric oxides as well as carbon monoxide can be reduced simultaneously. Placing the primary air jet just downstream of the fuel rich recirculation zone can lead to a significant reduction in both nitric oxides and carbon monoxide. In the case of fuel lean recirculation zone, reduction of nitric oxides can occur by placing the jets below the location of maximum radius of the recirculation zone.

Interdigitation Zone Band Restoration After Treatment of Diabetic Macular Edema.

PubMed

Serizawa, Satoshi; Ohkoshi, Kishiko; Minowa, Yuko; Soejima, Kumiko

2016-09-01

To investigate whether the integrity of the interdigitation zone band, the ellipsoid zone band, and the external limiting membrane are reliable markers of treatment outcome in diabetic macular edema (DME). In this retrospective study, we examined 41 treatment-naïve eyes (38 patients) with DME that were treated with laser therapy, pharmacotherapy, and/or vitrectomy. Best-corrected visual acuity and the integrity of the interdigitation zone band, the ellipsoid zone band, and the external limiting membrane were assessed before treatment and at 3, 6, and 12 months after DME treatment. One year after treatment, the external limiting membrane, ellipsoid zone band, and interdigitation zone band were completely visible in 30 (73.2%), 24 (58.5%), and 2 (4.9%) eyes, respectively. Interdigitation zone band status improved significantly (P = 0.005) 1 year after treatment. The interdigitation zone did not improve in the absence of the ellipsoid zone band. Likewise, ellipsoid zone status did not improve in the absence of the external limiting membrane at any time after treatment. The results of this study show that restoration of the interdigitation zone band constitutes a very sensitive marker of DME treatment outcome when the ellipsoid zone band is visible before treatment.

Using the CAE technologies of engineering analysis for designing steam turbines at ZAO Ural Turbine Works

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goloshumova, V. N.; Kortenko, V. V.; Pokhoriler, V. L.; Kultyshev, A. Yu.; Ivanovskii, A. A.

2008-08-01

We describe the experience ZAO Ural Turbine Works specialists gained from mastering the series of CAD/CAE/CAM/PDM technologies, which are modern software tools of computer-aided engineering. We also present the results obtained from mathematical simulation of the process through which high-and intermediate-pressure rotors are heated for revealing the most thermally stressed zones, as well as the results from mathematical simulation of a new design of turbine cylinder shells for improving the maneuverability of these turbines.

Intelligent Transportation Systems in Work Zones - A Case Study: Work Zone Travel Time System. Reducing Congestion with the Use of a Traffic Management Contract Incentive during the Reconstruction of Arizona State Route 68

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2004-10-01

This case study is one in a series of documents that examines the use of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) in work zones. This case study presents information gathered through interviews with key personnel on the Arizona State Route (SR) 68 pr...

Research notes : nighttime illumination of work zone flaggers.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2006-05-01

As daytime traffic demands increase, nighttime construction and maintenance work is becoming more prevalent. The effective and efficient illumination of flaggers in these work zones is a significant concern . Insufficient light levels, disabling glar...

Blast Performance of Four Armour Materials

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-08-01

provided in the Q&T condition, possessing tempered martensitic microstructures. Steels H, A and M possessed very similar microstructures at the...weld metal solidification cracking in steels and stainless steels . He has also undertaken extensive work on improving the weld zone toughness of high...3.1 Microstructures of steels It is generally accepted that a tempered martensitic microstructure is the most desirable condition for armour steel

Determining the drivers' acceptance of EFTCD in highway work zones.

PubMed

Bai, Yong; Li, Yingfeng

2011-05-01

Traffic safety is a major concern in the temporary one-lane, two-way highway work zones due to the increasing of construction and maintenance operations. To prevent rear-end crashes and to mitigate the severity of these crashes caused by the inattentive driving, the utilization of the Emergency Flasher Traffic Control Device (EFTCD) was under consideration by government agencies, in addition to existing temporary traffic control devices installed in the one-lane, two-way highway work zones. The EFTCD was a newly proposed traffic warning device implemented through the use of vehicles' hazard warning flashers. The primary objective of the research project was to investigate the drivers' acceptance of the proposed EFTCD by measuring the mean speed changes of vehicles with and without EFTCD and by evaluating the drivers' opinions of the EFTCD using the survey method. Field experimental results revealed that the EFTCD effectively reduced the mean vehicle speeds in the upstream of two work zones. A slow speed is more likely to reduce the severity of a crash in work zones. In addition, survey results indicated that 60% of the drivers thought the EFTCD signified a need for speed reduction and 82% of drivers recommended the implementation of the EFTCD in one-lane, two-way work zones. These results provide the necessary scientific justifications for the government agencies to decide if the EFTCD should be implemented in the one-lane, two-way highway work zones to prevent rear-end crashes and to mitigate the severity of these crashes. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Pedestrian-oriented zoning is associated with reduced income and poverty disparities in adult active travel to work, United States.

PubMed

Chriqui, Jamie F; Leider, Julien; Thrun, Emily; Nicholson, Lisa M; Slater, Sandy J

2017-02-01

Active travel to work can provide additional minutes of daily physical activity. While the literature points to the relationship between zoning, equity and socioeconomic status, and physical activity, no study has quantitatively explored these connections. This study examined whether zoning may help to moderate any income and poverty inequities in active travel and taking public transit to work. Research was conducted between May 2012 and June 2015. Zoning data were compiled for 3914 jurisdictions covering 45.45% of the U.S. population located in 471 of the most populous U.S. counties and 2 consolidated cities located in 48 states and the District of Columbia. (Sensitivity analyses also captured unincorporated areas which, with the municipalities, collectively covered ~72% of the U.S. ) Zoning codes were obtained and evaluated to assess the pedestrian-orientation of the zoning codes. Public transit use, active travel to work, median household income, and poverty data were obtained for all study jurisdictions from the 2010-2014 American Community Survey estimates. Associations were examined through multivariate regression models, controlling for community sociodemographics, clustered on county, with robust standard errors. We found that certain pedestrian-oriented zoning provisions (e.g., crosswalks, bike-pedestrian connectivity, street connectivity, bike lanes, bike parking, and more zoning provisions) were associated with reduced income and/or poverty disparities in rates of public transit use and active travel to work. Findings from this study can help to inform cross-sectoral collaborations between the public health, planning, and transportation fields regarding zoning for pedestrian-orientation and active travel. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Delineation systems for temporary traffic barriers in work zones.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1986-01-01

Providing for the safety of traffic traversing construction and maintenance work zones is becoming increasingly complex, and over the past several years, temporary concrete barriers have come into use as a means of protecting work crews as well as mo...

Development of Diesel Engine Operated Forklift Truck for Explosive Gas Atmospheres

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vishwakarma, Rajendra Kumar; Singh, Arvind Kumar; Ahirwal, Bhagirath; Sinha, Amalendu

2018-02-01

For the present study, a prototype diesel engine operated Forklift truck of 2 t capacity is developed for explosive gas atmosphere. The parts of the Forklift truck are assessed against risk of ignition of the explosive gases, vapors or mist grouped in Gr. IIA and having ignition temperature more than 200°C. Identification of possible sources of ignition and their control or prevention is the main objective of this work. The design transformation of a standard Forklift truck into a special Forklift truck is made on prototype basis. The safety parameters of the improved Forklift truck are discussed in this paper. The specially designed Forklift truck is useful in industries where explosive atmospheres may present during normal working conditions and risk of explosion is a concern during handling or transportation of materials. This indigenous diesel engine based Forklift truck for explosive gas atmosphere classified as Zone 1 and Zone 2 area and gas group IIA is developed first time in India in association with the Industry.

Crash characteristics at work zones

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2001-05-01

Work zones tend to cause hazardous conditions for vehicle drivers and construction workers since they generate conflicts between construction activities and the traffic, and therefore aggravate the existing traffic conditions.

Heat stress management program improving worker health and operational effectiveness: a case study.

PubMed

Huss, Rosalyn G; Skelton, Scott B; Alvis, Kimberly L; Shane, Leigh A

2013-03-01

Heat stress monitoring is a vital component of an effective health and safety program when employees work in exceptionally warm environments. Workers at hazardous waste sites often wear personal protective equipment (PPE), which increases the body heat stress load. No specific Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations address heat stress; however, OSHA does provide several guidance documents to assist employers in addressing this serious workplace health hazard. This article describes a heat stress and surveillance plan implemented at a hazardous waste site as part of the overall health and safety program. The PPE requirement for work at this site, coupled with extreme environmental temperatures, made heat stress a significant concern. Occupational health nurses and industrial hygienists developed a monitoring program for heat stress designed to prevent the occurrence of significant heat-related illness in site workers. The program included worker education on the signs of heat-related illness and continuous physiologic monitoring to detect early signs of heat-related health problems. Biological monitoring data were collected before workers entered the exclusion zone and on exiting the zone following decontamination. Sixty-six site workers were monitored throughout site remediation. More than 1,700 biological monitoring data points were recorded. Outcomes included improved worker health and safety, and increased operational effectiveness. Copyright 2013, SLACK Incorporated.

Experiential study on temperature and emission performance of micro burner during porous media combustion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Janvekar, Ayub Ahmed; Abdullah, M. Z.; Ahmad, Z. A.; Abas, A.; Ismail, A. K.; Hussien, A. A.; Kataraki, P. S.; Ishak, M. H. H.; Mazlan, M.; Zubair, A. F.

2018-05-01

Addition of porous materials in reaction zone give rise to significant improvements in combustion performance. In this work, a dual layered micro porous media burner was tested for stable flame and emissions. Reaction and preheat layer was made up of discrete (zirconia) and foam (porcelain) type of materials respectively. Three different thickness of reaction zone was tested, each with 10, 20 and 30mm. Interestingly, only 20mm thick layer can able to show better thermal efficiency of 72% as compared to 10 and 30mm. Best equivalence ratio came out to be 0.7 for surface and 0.6 for submerged flame conditions. Moreover, emission was continuously monitored to detect presence of NOx and CO, which were under controlled limits.

Acoustic Emission and Echo Signal Compensation Techniques Applied to an Ultrasonic Logging-While-Drilling Caliper.

PubMed

Yao, Yongchao; Ju, Xiaodong; Lu, Junqiang; Men, Baiyong

2017-06-10

A logging-while-drilling (LWD) caliper is a tool used for the real-time measurement of a borehole diameter in oil drilling engineering. This study introduces the mechanical structure and working principle of a new LWD caliper based on ultrasonic distance measurement (UDM). The detection range is a major performance index of a UDM system. This index is determined by the blind zone length and remote reflecting interface detection capability of the system. To reduce the blind zone length and detect near the reflecting interface, a full bridge acoustic emission technique based on bootstrap gate driver (BGD) and metal-oxide-semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET) is designed by analyzing the working principle and impedance characteristics of a given piezoelectric transducer. To detect the remote reflecting interface and reduce the dynamic range of the received echo signals, the relationships between the echo amplitude and propagation distance of ultrasonic waves are determined. A signal compensation technique based on time-varying amplification theory, which can automatically change the gain according to the echo arrival time is designed. Lastly, the aforementioned techniques and corresponding circuits are experimentally verified. Results show that the blind zone length in the UDM system of the LWD caliper is significantly reduced and the capability to detect the remote reflecting interface is considerably improved.

Acoustic Emission and Echo Signal Compensation Techniques Applied to an Ultrasonic Logging-While-Drilling Caliper

PubMed Central

Yao, Yongchao; Ju, Xiaodong; Lu, Junqiang; Men, Baiyong

2017-01-01

A logging-while-drilling (LWD) caliper is a tool used for the real-time measurement of a borehole diameter in oil drilling engineering. This study introduces the mechanical structure and working principle of a new LWD caliper based on ultrasonic distance measurement (UDM). The detection range is a major performance index of a UDM system. This index is determined by the blind zone length and remote reflecting interface detection capability of the system. To reduce the blind zone length and detect near the reflecting interface, a full bridge acoustic emission technique based on bootstrap gate driver (BGD) and metal-oxide-semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET) is designed by analyzing the working principle and impedance characteristics of a given piezoelectric transducer. To detect the remote reflecting interface and reduce the dynamic range of the received echo signals, the relationships between the echo amplitude and propagation distance of ultrasonic waves are determined. A signal compensation technique based on time-varying amplification theory, which can automatically change the gain according to the echo arrival time is designed. Lastly, the aforementioned techniques and corresponding circuits are experimentally verified. Results show that the blind zone length in the UDM system of the LWD caliper is significantly reduced and the capability to detect the remote reflecting interface is considerably improved. PMID:28604603

An intelligent decision support system for work zone traffic management and planning.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2004-01-01

Periodic resurfacing, rehabilitation, restoration, and reconstruction work is needed on the aging highway system in the state of Ohio to maintain a desired level of service for the traveling public. However, temporary work zones on highways disrupt t...

Investigation of spherical loudspeaker arrays for local active control of sound.

PubMed

Peleg, Tomer; Rafaely, Boaz

2011-10-01

Active control of sound can be employed globally to reduce noise levels in an entire enclosure, or locally around a listener's head. Recently, spherical loudspeaker arrays have been studied as multiple-channel sources for local active control of sound, presenting the fundamental theory and several active control configurations. In this paper, important aspects of using a spherical loudspeaker array for local active control of sound are further investigated. First, the feasibility of creating sphere-shaped quiet zones away from the source is studied both theoretically and numerically, showing that these quiet zones are associated with sound amplification and poor system robustness. To mitigate the latter, the design of shell-shaped quiet zones around the source is investigated. A combination of two spherical sources is then studied with the aim of enlarging the quiet zone. The two sources are employed to generate quiet zones that surround a rigid sphere, investigating the application of active control around a listener's head. A significant improvement in performance is demonstrated in this case over a conventional headrest-type system that uses two monopole secondary sources. Finally, several simulations are presented to support the theoretical work and to demonstrate the performance and limitations of the system. © 2011 Acoustical Society of America

Optimal working zone division for safe track maintenance in The Netherlands.

PubMed

den Hertog, D; van Zante-de Fokkert, J I; Sjamaar, S A; Beusmans, R

2005-09-01

After a sequence of serious accidents, the safety of rail track workers became an urgent and political problem in The Netherlands. It turned out that the rail track workers had one of the most dangerous jobs. The board of the Dutch Railways decided that the Dutch railway infrastructure had to be divided into so-called working zones. Moreover, to carry out maintenance activities, that particular working zone of the railway system had to be taken out of service. An essential problem was how to divide the Dutch railway infrastructure into working zones such that all parties involved are satisfied. Since many parties with conflicting interests were involved, this problem was extremely difficult. In this paper we show the division rules we developed, and which had been implemented in The Netherlands.

SM-4 computer and CAMAC equipment in automating a ROMS-2A mass spectrometer

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

Bulgakov, R.Sh.; Gafurov, R.A.; Safin, D.N.

1988-05-01

A data acquisition system was developed which provides for measuring mass peaks on three parameters as well as measuring working parameters. The computer memory stores 40 kHz signals, with an ADC cycle time of 10 microsec. A structural diagram is given together with upgrades made in the CAMAC apparatus to improve the speed and extend the application. Working parameters such as the pressures in pipes and the temperature in the test zone can be monitored by splitting the measurements into two cycles alternating with a controlled frequency: gas composition and technological parameter measurement.

An intelligent decision support system for work zone traffic management and planning : executive summary report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2004-01-01

Problem: Periodic resurfacing, rehabilitation, restoration, and reconstruction work is needed on the aging highway system in the state of Ohio to maintain a desired level of service for the traveling public. However, temporary work zones on highways ...

Portable work zone barrier-"mobile barriers" mobile barrier trailer : final report, December 2009.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-12-01

This work has focused on the fabrication and implementation of the MBT-1 Beam which is a : truck mounted, moveable, expandable beam that provides positive work zone protection : comparable to a fixed concrete barrier. It is specifically intended to e...

Temporary Losses of Highway Capacity and Impacts on Performance: Phase 2

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

Chin, S.M.

2004-11-10

Traffic congestion and its impacts significantly affect the nation's economic performance and the public's quality of life. In most urban areas, travel demand routinely exceeds highway capacity during peak periods. In addition, events such as crashes, vehicle breakdowns, work zones, adverse weather, railroad crossings, large trucks loading/unloading in urban areas, and other factors such as toll collection facilities and sub-optimal signal timing cause temporary capacity losses, often worsening the conditions on already congested highway networks. The impacts of these temporary capacity losses include delay, reduced mobility, and reduced reliability of the highway system. They can also cause drivers to re-routemore » or reschedule trips. Such information is vital to formulating sound public policies for the highway infrastructure and its operation. In response to this need, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, sponsored by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), made an initial attempt to provide nationwide estimates of the capacity losses and delay caused by temporary capacity-reducing events (Chin et al. 2002). This study, called the Temporary Loss of Capacity (TLC) study, estimated capacity loss and delay on freeways and principal arterials resulting from fatal and non-fatal crashes, vehicle breakdowns, and adverse weather, including snow, ice, and fog. In addition, it estimated capacity loss and delay caused by sub-optimal signal timing at intersections on principal arterials. It also included rough estimates of capacity loss and delay on Interstates due to highway construction and maintenance work zones. Capacity loss and delay were estimated for calendar year 1999, except for work zone estimates, which were estimated for May 2001 to May 2002 due to data availability limitations. Prior to the first phase of this study, which was completed in May of 2002, no nationwide estimates of temporary losses of highway capacity by type of capacity-reducing event had been made. This report describes the second phase of the TLC study (TLC2). TLC2 improves upon the first study by expanding the scope to include delays from rain, toll collection facilities, railroad crossings, and commercial truck pickup and delivery (PUD) activities in urban areas. It includes estimates of work zone capacity loss and delay for all freeways and principal arterials, rather than for Interstates only. It also includes improved estimates of delays caused by fog, snow, and ice, which are based on data not available during the initial phase of the study. Finally, computational errors involving crash and breakdown delay in the original TLC report are corrected.« less

Centroids evaluation of the images obtained with the conical null-screen corneal topographer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Osorio-Infante, Arturo I.; Armengol-Cruz, Victor de Emanuel; Campos-García, Manuel; Cossio-Guerrero, Cesar; Marquez-Flores, Jorge; Díaz-Uribe, José Rufino

2016-09-01

In this work, we propose some algorithms to recover the centroids of the resultant image obtained by a conical nullscreen based corneal topographer. With these algorithms, we obtain the region of interest (roi) of the original image and using an image-processing algorithm, we calculate the geometric centroid of each roi. In order to improve our algorithm performance, we use different settings of null-screen targets, changing their size and number. We also improved the illumination system to avoid inhomogeneous zones in the corneal images. Finally, we report some corneal topographic measurements with the best setting we found.

SEASAT economic assessment. Volume 5: Coastal zones case study and generalization. [economic benefits of weather forecasting by SEASAT satellites to the coastal plains of the United States

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1975-01-01

The economic losses sustained in the U.S. coastal zones were studied for the purpose of quantitatively establishing economic benefits as a consequence of improving the predictive quality of destructive phenomena in U.S. coastal zones. Improved prediction of hurricane landfall and improved experimental knowledge of hurricane seeding are discussed.

Drilling to investigate processes in active tectonics and magmatism

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shervais, J.; Evans, J.; Toy, V.; Kirkpatrick, J.; Clarke, A.; Eichelberger, J.

2014-12-01

Coordinated drilling efforts are an important method to investigate active tectonics and magmatic processes related to faults and volcanoes. The US National Science Foundation (NSF) recently sponsored a series of workshops to define the nature of future continental drilling efforts. As part of this series, we convened a workshop to explore how continental scientific drilling can be used to better understand active tectonic and magmatic processes. The workshop, held in Park City, Utah, in May 2013, was attended by 41 investigators from seven countries. Participants were asked to define compelling scientific justifications for examining problems that can be addressed by coordinated programs of continental scientific drilling and related site investigations. They were also asked to evaluate a wide range of proposed drilling projects, based on white papers submitted prior to the workshop. Participants working on faults and fault zone processes highlighted two overarching topics with exciting potential for future scientific drilling research: (1) the seismic cycle and (2) the mechanics and architecture of fault zones. Recommended projects target fundamental mechanical processes and controls on faulting, and range from induced earthquakes and earthquake initiation to investigations of detachment fault mechanics and fluid flow in fault zones. Participants working on active volcanism identified five themes: the volcano eruption cycle; eruption sustainability, near-field stresses, and system recovery; eruption hazards; verification of geophysical models; and interactions with other Earth systems. Recommended projects address problems that are transferrable to other volcanic systems, such as improved methods for identifying eruption history and constraining the rheological structure of shallow caldera regions. Participants working on chemical geodynamics identified four major themes: large igneous provinces (LIPs), ocean islands, continental hotspot tracks and rifts, and convergent plate margins (subduction zones). This workshop brought together a diverse group of scientists with a broad range of scientific experience and interests. A particular strength was the involvement of both early-career scientists, who will initiate and carry out these new research programs, and more senior researchers with many years of experience in scientific drilling and active tectonics research. Each of the themes and questions outlined above has direct benefits to society, including improving hazard assessment, direct monitoring of active systems for early warning, renewable and non-renewable resource and energy exploitation, and predicting the environmental impacts of natural hazards, emphasizing the central role that scientific drilling will play in future scientific and societal developments.

Work zone operations best practices guidebook

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2000-04-01

This guidebook is the first release of a resource designed to give state and local transportation agencies, construction contractors, transportation planners, trainers, and others with interest in work zone operations access to information and points...

Addressing work zone traffic safety issues in Arizona.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-03-01

The occurrence of work zone crashes is expected to increase in Arizona with the Arizona Department of Transportations (ADOTs) shifted emphasis from constructing new roadways to preserving existing facilities. Identifying factors that contribute...

Synthesis of work-zone performance measures.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-09-01

The main objective of this synthesis was to identify and summarize how agencies collect, analyze, and report different work-zone : traffic-performance measures, which include exposure, mobility, and safety measures. The researchers also examined comm...

Uncertainty analysis of accident notification time and emergency medical service response time in work zone traffic accidents.

PubMed

Meng, Qiang; Weng, Jinxian

2013-01-01

Taking into account the uncertainty caused by exogenous factors, the accident notification time (ANT) and emergency medical service (EMS) response time were modeled as 2 random variables following the lognormal distribution. Their mean values and standard deviations were respectively formulated as the functions of environmental variables including crash time, road type, weekend, holiday, light condition, weather, and work zone type. Work zone traffic accident data from the Fatality Analysis Report System between 2002 and 2009 were utilized to determine the distributions of the ANT and the EMS arrival time in the United States. A mixed logistic regression model, taking into account the uncertainty associated with the ANT and the EMS response time, was developed to estimate the risk of death. The results showed that the uncertainty of the ANT was primarily influenced by crash time and road type, whereas the uncertainty of EMS response time is greatly affected by road type, weather, and light conditions. In addition, work zone accidents occurring during a holiday and in poor light conditions were found to be statistically associated with a longer mean ANT and longer EMS response time. The results also show that shortening the ANT was a more effective approach in reducing the risk of death than the EMS response time in work zones. To shorten the ANT and the EMS response time, work zone activities are suggested to be undertaken during non-holidays, during the daytime, and in good weather and light conditions.

Adaptive slab laser beam quality improvement using a weighted least-squares reconstruction algorithm.

PubMed

Chen, Shanqiu; Dong, LiZhi; Chen, XiaoJun; Tan, Yi; Liu, Wenjin; Wang, Shuai; Yang, Ping; Xu, Bing; Ye, YuTang

2016-04-10

Adaptive optics is an important technology for improving beam quality in solid-state slab lasers. However, there are uncorrectable aberrations in partial areas of the beam. In the criterion of the conventional least-squares reconstruction method, it makes the zones with small aberrations nonsensitive and hinders this zone from being further corrected. In this paper, a weighted least-squares reconstruction method is proposed to improve the relative sensitivity of zones with small aberrations and to further improve beam quality. Relatively small weights are applied to the zones with large residual aberrations. Comparisons of results show that peak intensity in the far field improved from 1242 analog digital units (ADU) to 2248 ADU, and beam quality β improved from 2.5 to 2.0. This indicates the weighted least-squares method has better performance than the least-squares reconstruction method when there are large zonal uncorrectable aberrations in the slab laser system.

More are better, but the details matter: combinations of multiple Fresnel zone plates for improved resolution and efficiency in X-ray microscopy

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

Li, Kenan; Jacobsen, Chris

Fresnel zone plates used for X-ray nanofocusing face high-aspect-ratio nanofabrication challenges in combining narrow transverse features (for high spatial resolution) along with extended optical modulation along the X-ray beam direction (to improve efficiency). The stacking of multiple Fresnel zone plates along the beam direction has already been shown to offer improved characteristics of resolution and efficiency when compared with thin single zone plates. Using multislice wave propagation simulation methods, here a number of new schemes for the stacking of multiple Fresnel zone plates are considered. These include consideration of optimal thickness and spacing in the axial direction, and methods tomore » capture a fraction of the light otherwise diffracted into unwanted orders, and instead bring it into the desired first-order focus. In conclusion, the alignment tolerances for stacking multiple Fresnel zone plates are also considered.« less

Residual Stress Development in Explosive-Bonded Bi-Metal Composite Materials

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-03-01

at ANSTO, researching high temperature fatigue behaviour and modelling of ferritic pressure vessel steel , for which he was awarded the degree at...solidification cracking in steels and stainless steels . He has also undertaken extensive work on improving the weld zone toughness of high strength steels ...957. [3] I. Tatsukawa, I. Oda, ‘Residual Stress Measurements on Explosive Clad Stainless Steel ’, Trans. Japan Welding Soc., 2(2), 1971, p26-34

Characterization of tissue response to radiofrequency ablation using 3D model-based analysis of interventional MR images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weinberg, Brent D.; Lazebnik, Roee S.; Breen, Michael S.; Lewin, Jonathan S.; Wilson, David L.

2003-05-01

Using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), real-time guidance is feasible for radiofrequency (RF) current ablation of pathologic tissue. Lesions have a characteristic two-zone appearance: an inner core (Zone I) surrounded by a hyper-intense rim (Zone II). A better understanding of both the immediate (hyper-acute) and delayed (sub-acute) physiological response of the target tissue will aid development of minimally invasive tumor treatment strategies. We performed in vivo RF ablations in a rabbit thigh model and characterized the tissue response to treatment through contrast enhanced (CE) T1 and T2 weighted MR images at two time points. We measured zonal grayscale changes as well as zone volume changes using a 3D computationally fitted globally deformable parametric model. Comparison over time demonstrated an increase in the volume of both the inner necrotic core (mean 56.5% increase) and outer rim (mean 16.8% increase) of the lesion. Additionally, T2 images of the lesion exhibited contrast greater than or equal to CE T1 (mean 35% improvement). This work establishes a foundation for the clinical use of T2 MR images coupled with a geometric model of the ablation for noninvasive lesion monitoring and characterization.

Remote Sensing Data for Coastal Zone Vulnerability Assessment- the Bay of Algiers Case

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rabehi, Walid; Guerfi, Mokhtar; Mahi, Habib

2016-08-01

Like many of South Mediterranean coastlines, the Algerian coastal zone and Algiers' bay specifically, is one of the most vulnerable zone. Because of the natural pressures occurring in the region such as earthquake, tsunami risk, erosion / accretion, marine intrusion, etc. Combined with other anthropogenic factors as urban sprawl, pollution, loss of biodiversity and economic value etc... A high degradation of this coastline is noticeable despite all the protection measures brought to these zones, which have sometimes increased its vulnerability.The aim of this work is to generate the Coastal Vulnerability Index (CVI) map related to erosion and flooding. This index, created by Gornitz & White (1990), was particularly focused on "physical parameters of the coast" [3], Then it was improved by McLaughlin & Cooper (2010), who added a socio-economical approach by calculating parameters like demography, land use...etc. The index is obtained by integrating in a GIS, different vulnerability factors of the coastal area.. Many relevant parameters were derived from remote sensing, combined with other data; they are analyzed with a Multicriteria method after being grouped in three sub- indexes; coastal physical characteristics, coastal forcing and socioeconomic factors, in order to produce the CVI.

Taboo search algorithm for item assignment in synchronized zone automated order picking system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Yingying; Wu, Yaohua

2014-07-01

The idle time which is part of the order fulfillment time is decided by the number of items in the zone; therefore the item assignment method affects the picking efficiency. Whereas previous studies only focus on the balance of number of kinds of items between different zones but not the number of items and the idle time in each zone. In this paper, an idle factor is proposed to measure the idle time exactly. The idle factor is proven to obey the same vary trend with the idle time, so the object of this problem can be simplified from minimizing idle time to minimizing idle factor. Based on this, the model of item assignment problem in synchronized zone automated order picking system is built. The model is a form of relaxation of parallel machine scheduling problem which had been proven to be NP-complete. To solve the model, a taboo search algorithm is proposed. The main idea of the algorithm is minimizing the greatest idle factor of zones with the 2-exchange algorithm. Finally, the simulation which applies the data collected from a tobacco distribution center is conducted to evaluate the performance of the algorithm. The result verifies the model and shows the algorithm can do a steady work to reduce idle time and the idle time can be reduced by 45.63% on average. This research proposed an approach to measure the idle time in synchronized zone automated order picking system. The approach can improve the picking efficiency significantly and can be seen as theoretical basis when optimizing the synchronized automated order picking systems.

Advanced Understanding of Convection Initiation and Optimizing Cloud Seeding by Advanced Remote Sensing and Land Cover Modification over the United Arab Emirates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wulfmeyer, V.; Behrendt, A.; Branch, O.; Schwitalla, T.

2016-12-01

A prerequisite for significant precipitation amounts is the presence of convergence zones. These are due to land surface heterogeneity, orography as well as mesoscale and synoptic scale circulations. Only, if these convergence zones are strong enough and interact with an upper level instability, deep convection can be initiated. For the understanding of convection initiation (CI) and optimal cloud seeding deployment, it is essential that these convergence zones are detected before clouds are developing in order to preempt the decisive microphysical processes for liquid water and ice formation. In this presentation, a new project on Optimizing Cloud Seeding by Advanced Remote Sensing and Land Cover Modification (OCAL) is introduced, which is funded by the United Arab Emirates Rain Enhancement Program (UAEREP). This project has two research components. The first component focuses on an improved detection and forecasting of convergence zones and CI by a) operation of scanning Doppler lidar and cloud radar systems during two seasonal field campaigns in orographic terrain and over the desert in the UAE, and b) advanced forecasting of convergence zones and CI with the WRF-NOAHMP model system. Nowcasting to short-range forecasting of convection will be improved by the assimilation of Doppler lidar and the UAE radar network data. For the latter, we will apply a new model forward operator developed at our institute. Forecast uncertainties will be assessed by ensemble simulations driven by ECMWF boundaries. The second research component of OCAL will study whether artificial modifications of land surface heterogeneity are possible through plantations or changes of terrain, leading to an amplification of convergence zones. This is based on our pioneering work on high-resolution modeling of the impact of plantations on weather and climate in arid regions. A specific design of the shape and location of plantations can lead to the formation of convergence zones, which can strengthen convergent flows already existing in the region of interest, thus amplifying convection and precipitation. We expect that this method can be successfully applied in regions with pre-existing land-surface heterogeneity and orography such as coastal areas with land-sea breezes and the Al Hajar Mountain range.

Work Zone Design and Operations Enhancements

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-02-01

Oregon Department of Transportation contractors are required to implement Traffic Control Plans (TCPs) to protect and direct traffic through work zones. The design and implementation of TCPs have shown variation from project-to-project across the Sta...

Work zone and operation enhancements.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-02-01

Oregon Department of Transportation contractors are required to implement Traffic Control Plans (TCPs) to protect and direct traffic through work zones. The design and implementation of TCPs have shown variation from project-to-project across the Sta...

Traffic incident management in construction and maintenance work zones.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-01-01

In 2004, the Federal Highway Administration published updated rules governing work zone safety and mobility; all highway construction and maintenance projects using federal-aid highway funds are required to develop transportation management plans (TM...

23 CFR 630.1004 - Definitions and explanation of terms.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... of the work zone design on worker safety. The number of worker fatalities and injuries at a given... activities. A work zone is typically marked by signs, channelizing devices, barriers, pavement markings, and...

23 CFR 630.1004 - Definitions and explanation of terms.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... of the work zone design on worker safety. The number of worker fatalities and injuries at a given... activities. A work zone is typically marked by signs, channelizing devices, barriers, pavement markings, and...

23 CFR 630.1004 - Definitions and explanation of terms.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... of the work zone design on worker safety. The number of worker fatalities and injuries at a given... activities. A work zone is typically marked by signs, channelizing devices, barriers, pavement markings, and...

23 CFR 630.1004 - Definitions and explanation of terms.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... of the work zone design on worker safety. The number of worker fatalities and injuries at a given... activities. A work zone is typically marked by signs, channelizing devices, barriers, pavement markings, and...

23 CFR 630.1004 - Definitions and explanation of terms.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... of the work zone design on worker safety. The number of worker fatalities and injuries at a given... activities. A work zone is typically marked by signs, channelizing devices, barriers, pavement markings, and...

Optimized active traffic management and speed harmonization in work zones.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2014-01-01

Traffic and demand management are major strategies to control delay and congestion in : highway bottlenecks including work zones. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) : introduced innovative strategies, called Active Traffic and Demand Managemen...

Implementation guide for monitoring work zone safety and mobility impacts

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-01-01

This implementation guide describes the conceptual framework, data requirements, and computational procedures for determining the safety and mobility impacts of work zones in Texas. Researchers designed the framework and procedures to assist district...

Using modeling and simulation tools for work zone analysis

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-05-01

Work Zone Planning and Management have become more challenging because of increasing travel demand and an aging roadway network infrastructure facing more frequent maintenance and major rehabilitation projects, while still needing to transport people...

New Intensity Attenuation in Georgia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tsereteli, N. S.; Varazanashvili, O.; Tibaldi, A.; Bonali, F.; Gogoladze, Z.; Kvavadze, N.; Kvedelidze, I.

2016-12-01

In seismic-prone zones, increase of urbanization and infrastructures in turn produces increase of seismic risk that is mainly related to: the level of seismic hazard itself, the seismic resistance of dwelling houses, and many other factors. The relevant objectives of the present work is to improve the regional seismic hazard maps of Georgia, by implementing state-of-the art probabilistic seismic hazard assessment techniques and outputs from recent national and international collaborations. Seismic zoning is the identification of zones of similar levels of earthquake hazard. With reference to seismic zoning by ground motion assessment, the shaking intensity essentially depends on i) regional seismicity, ii) attenuation of ground motion with distance, iii) local site effects on ground motion. In the last decade, seismic hazard assessment is presented in terms of Peak Ground Acceleration (PGA), Peak Ground Velocity (PGV), or other recorded parameters. But there are very limited strong motion dataset in Georgia. Furthermore, vulnerability of buildings still is estimated for intensity, and there are no information about correlation between the distribution of ground motion recorded parameters and damage. So, macroseimic Intensity is still a very important parameter for strong ground motion evaluation. In the present work, we calibrated intensity prediction equations (IPE) for the Georgian dataset based on about 78 reviewed earthquakes. Metadata for Intensity (MSK 64 scale) were constrained and predictionequations for various types of distance (epicentral and hypocentral distance, Joyner-Boore distance, closest distance to the fault rupture plane) were calibrated. Relations between intensity and PGA values were derived. For this we used hybrid-empirical ground motion equation derived for Georgia and run scenario earthquakes for events with macroseismic data.

State Enterprise Zone Programs: Have They Worked?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Peters, Alan H.; Fisher, Peter S.

The effectiveness of state enterprise zone programs was examined by using a hypothetical-firm model called the Tax and Incentives Model-Enterprise Zones (TAIM-ez) model to analyze the value of enterprise zone incentives to businesses across the United States and especially in the 13 states that had substantial enterprise zone programs by 1990. The…

Python Leap Second Management and Implementation of Precise Barycentric Correction (barycorrpy)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kanodia, Shubham; Wright, Jason

2018-01-01

We announce barycorrpy (BCPy) , a Python implementation to calculate precise barycentric corrections well below the 1 cm/s level, following the algorithm of Wright and Eastman (2014). This level of precision is required in the search for 1 Earth mass planets in the Habitable Zones of Sun-like stars by the Radial Velocity (RV) method, where the maximum semi-amplitude is about 9 cm/s. We have developed BCPy to be used in the pipeline for the next generation Doppler Spectrometers - Habitable-zone Planet Finder (HPF) and NEID. In this work, we also develop an automated leap second management routine to improve upon the one available in Astropy. It checks for and downloads a new leap second file before converting from the UT time scale to TDB.

Corridor-based forecasts of work-zone impacts for freeways.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-08-09

This project developed an analysis methodology and associated software implementation for the evaluation of : significant work zone impacts on freeways in North Carolina. The FREEVAL-WZ software tool allows the analyst : to predict the operational im...

Crashworthiness testing of a portable maintenance work-zone barrier.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2008-12-01

Barrier and shadow vehicles generally provide Caltrans maintenance workers protection from errant vehicles entering the work zones, from the upstream direction of traffic flow. This type of protection does not protect workers from vehicles entering t...

Vehicle accidents in highway work zones.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1981-01-01

The objective of this study was to determine the magnitude and characteristics of safety problems, in terms of reported accidents, that are associated with moving vehicular traffic around and through highway work zones. This was accomplished by exami...

Design of portable rumble strips.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2006-12-01

"In 2003, the states involved in the Midwest Smart Work Zone Deployment Initiative identified : portable rumble strips (i.e., rumble strips that require no adhesive or fasteners, making them : applicable for very short term work zones) as a high prio...

Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) work zone driver model software

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-11-01

FHWA and the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) Volpe Center are developing a work zone car-following model and simulation software that interfaces with existing microsimulation tools, enabling more accurate simulation of car-following through...

Crash Tests of Work Zone Traffic Control Devices

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1990-02-01

Full-scale vehicle crash tests evaluated performance of typical work zone traffic control devices. Modified test procedures and evaluation criteria from NCHRP Report 230 were used in 108 tests, providing significant insight into impact performance. P...

Development of recommendations for arterial lane closures to optimize traffic operations.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-01-01

The 2010 FDOT Design Standards provide information regarding traffic control through work zones at multilane arterials. : However, there are currently no quantitative guidelines for optimizing signal control around work zones. The objective of this :...

Longitudinal channelizing devices along business entrances in work zones.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2015-04-01

This report documents the efforts and results of research to evaluate the effectiveness of alternatives to the : use of channelizing drums for driveway delineation in work zones. The Florida Department of : Transportation (FDOT) had originally sought...

Longitudinal channelizing devices along business entrances in work zones : [summary].

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2015-04-01

The Florida Department of Transportations Design Standards requires placement of business : entrance signs and channelizing devices at business entrances in work zones. The Design : Standards also specifies the layout of the signs and devices. Typ...

Safety assessment tool for construction zone work phasing plans

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-05-01

The Highway Safety Manual (HSM) is the compilation of national safety research that provides quantitative methods for : analyzing highway safety. The HSM presents crash modification functions related to freeway work zone characteristics such as : wor...

Work zone positive protection guidelines for Idaho.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2014-12-01

The Code of Federal Regulation (CFR) Title 23 Part 630 Subpart K - Temporary Traffic Control (630.1102630.1110) rule states : that positive protection shall be considered where work zone conditions place workers at increased risk from motorized : ...

Evaluation of mobile work zone alarm systems.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2014-06-01

Maintenance of highways often involves mobile work zones for various types of low speed moving operations such as : striping and sweeping. The speed differential between the moving operation and traffic, and the increasing problem of : distracted dri...

Engineered Hyporheic Zones as Novel Water Quality Best Management Practice: Flow and Contaminant Attenuation in Constructed Stream Experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Herzog, S.; McCray, J. E.; Higgins, C. P.

2015-12-01

The hyporheic zone is a hotspot for biogeochemical processing that can attenuate a variety of nonpoint source contaminants in streamwater. However, hyporheic zones in urban and agricultural streams are often degraded and poorly connected with surface water. In order to increase hyporheic exchange and improve water quality, we introduced engineered streambeds as a stormwater and restoration best management practice. Modifications to streambed hydraulic conductivity and reactivity are termed Biohydrochemical Enhancement structures for Streamwater Treatment (BEST). BEST are subsurface modules that utilize low- and high-permeability sediments to drive efficient hyporheic exchange, and reactive geomedia to increase reaction rates within the hyporheic zone. This work presents the first physical performance data of BEST modules at the pilot scale. BEST modules were installed in a constructed stream facility at the Colorado School of Mines in Golden, CO. This facility features two 15m artificial streams, which included an all sand control condition alongside the BEST test condition. Streams were continuously operated at a discharge of 1 L/s using recycled water. Time-lapse electrical resistivity surveys demonstrated that BEST modules provided substantially greater hyporheic exchange than the control condition. Water quality samples at the hyporheic and reach scales also revealed greater attenuation of nitrogen, coliforms, and select metals and trace organics by BEST modules relative to the control condition. These experimental results were also compared to previous numerical model simulations to evaluate model accuracy. Together, these results show that BEST may be an effective best management practice for improving streamwater quality in urban and agricultural settings.

23 CFR 630.1108 - Work zone safety management measures and strategies.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... workers and road users, such as: (1) Work zones that provide workers no means of escape from motorized... exposure to motorized traffic and exposure of road users to work activities, while also providing adequate... individual projects, such as: (1) Full road closures; (2) Ramp closures; (3) Median crossovers; (4) Full or...

23 CFR 630.1108 - Work zone safety management measures and strategies.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... workers and road users, such as: (1) Work zones that provide workers no means of escape from motorized... exposure to motorized traffic and exposure of road users to work activities, while also providing adequate... individual projects, such as: (1) Full road closures; (2) Ramp closures; (3) Median crossovers; (4) Full or...

23 CFR 630.1108 - Work zone safety management measures and strategies.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... workers and road users, such as: (1) Work zones that provide workers no means of escape from motorized... exposure to motorized traffic and exposure of road users to work activities, while also providing adequate... individual projects, such as: (1) Full road closures; (2) Ramp closures; (3) Median crossovers; (4) Full or...

23 CFR 630.1108 - Work zone safety management measures and strategies.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... workers and road users, such as: (1) Work zones that provide workers no means of escape from motorized... exposure to motorized traffic and exposure of road users to work activities, while also providing adequate... individual projects, such as: (1) Full road closures; (2) Ramp closures; (3) Median crossovers; (4) Full or...

Long-Term Outcomes in Patients with Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration Who Maintain Dry Macula after Three Monthly Ranibizumab Injections.

PubMed

Kim, Kyung Min; Kim, Jae Hui; Chang, Young Suk; Kim, Jong Woo; Kim, Chul Gu

2018-01-01

To evaluate long-term changes in visual acuity and retinal microstructure in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD) who had maintained dry macula after initial treatment. This retrospective observational study included 55 eyes that were diagnosed with neovascular AMD, were treated with three monthly ranibizumab injections, and maintained dry macula during a two-year follow-up. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at three months and at the final follow-up were compared, and the degree of visual improvement was compared between eyes with and without improvement of the ellipsoid zone. In addition, the incidence of improvement of the ellipsoid zone was compared between eyes with different extents of disruption. The mean follow-up period was 30.3 ± 4.1 months. BCVA at three months and at the final follow-up was 0.51 ± 0.46 and 0.45 ± 0.49 (P<0.001). Among 35 eyes that exhibited >200 μm of disruption of the ellipsoid zone, 15 (42.9%) showed improvement of the ellipsoid zone, and the improvement in BCVA was greater in these eyes than that in the remaining 20 eyes (P=0.021). A higher incidence of improvement of the ellipsoid zone was noted in eyes with 200 to 800 μm of disruption than in eyes with >800 μm of disruption (P<0.001). Long-term improvement in visual acuity was noted in eyes that had maintained dry macula after three ranibizumab injections. The status of the ellipsoid zone at three months was closely associated with visual improvement.

Tree improvement in the Pacific Northwest.

Treesearch

R. Johnson

2000-01-01

Advanced-generation tree breeding programs are underway for Douglas-fir and coastal western hemlock. These programs will continue to improve growth rates and other traits. Regardless of whether seeds is from a seed orchard or natural collection, it must be used in its appropriated breeding zone or seed zone. These zones vary by species. Breeding programs are underway...

Fast-food fights: news coverage of local efforts to improve food environments through land-use regulations, 2001-2013. [corrected].

PubMed

Nixon, Laura; Mejia, Pamela; Dorfman, Lori; Cheyne, Andrew; Young, Sandra; Friedman, Lissy C; Gottlieb, Mark A; Wooten, Heather

2015-03-01

Zoning and other land-use policies are a promising but controversial strategy to improve community food environments. To understand how these policies are debated, we searched existing databases and the Internet and analyzed news coverage and legal documentation of efforts to restrict fast-food restaurants in 77 US communities in 2001 to 2013. Policies intended to improve community health were most often proposed in urban, racially diverse communities; policies proposed in small towns or majority-White communities aimed to protect community aesthetics or local businesses. Health-focused policies were subject to more criticism than other policies and were generally less successful. Our findings could inform the work of advocates interested in employing land-use policies to improve the food environment in their own communities.

Work zone positive protection guidelines.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-05-01

The goal of this project was to develop implementation guidance that the Texas Department of : Transportation (TxDOT) can use to make better decisions regarding when and where to use positive : protection in work zones and when to consider exposure c...

Evaluation of arrow panel displays for temporary work zones : final report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2001-08-01

The Oregon Department of Transportation evaluated the effectiveness of a sequentially flashing diamond arrow panel display as advance caution warning in temporary work zones. This display was evaluated by comparing it with two others; the flash...

Work zone design and operation enhancements : final report, March 2010.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-02-01

Oregon Department of Transportation contractors are required to implement Traffic Control Plans (TCPs) to protect and direct traffic through work zones. The design and implementation of TCPs have shown variation from project-to-project across the Sta...

Use of intelligent transportation systems in rural work zones.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-12-01

This project defined an approach to integrating data collected and traveler information displayed in a work zone : with a regional transportation management center and/or other state websites. The project conducted a literature : review to define the...

Work zone traffic management synthesis : work zone pedestrian protection

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1997-08-01

This Long Term Pavement Performance (LTPP) data analysis was intended to examine, in a practical way, the LTPP database and to identify the site conditions and design features that significantly affect transverse joint faulting. Key products develope...

Work zone lane closure analysis model.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-10-01

At the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT), the tool used by traffic engineers to predict whether a queue will form at a freeway work zone is the Excel-based "Lane Rental Model" developed at the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (OkDOT) ...

Highway work zone capacity estimation using field data from Kansas.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2015-02-01

Although extensive research has been conducted on urban freeway capacity estimation methods, minimal research has been : carried out for rural highway sections, especially sections within work zones. This study attempted to fill that void for rural :...

Vehicle accidents at maintenance and utility work zones.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1978-01-01

The objective of this study was to determine the magnitude and characteristics of safety problems, in terms of reported accidents, that are associated with moving vehicular traffic around and through highway maintenance and utility work zones. This w...

Computing moving and intermittent queue propagation in highway work zones.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2012-07-01

Drivers may experience intermittent congestion and moving queue conditions in work zones due to several reasons such as presence of lane closure, roadway geometric changes, higher demand, lower speed, and reduced capacity. The congestion and queue ha...

Assessing public inconvenience in highway work zones.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2002-06-01

The traveling public is making increasingly frequent contact with the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) when entering a work zone. Because ODOT remains very sensitive to the needs of the public, it is important to understand their opinions a...

Autonomous space processor for orbital debris

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ramohalli, Kumar; Campbell, David; Brockman, Jeff P.; Carter, Bruce; Donelson, Leslie; John, Lawrence E.; Marine, Micky C.; Rodina, Dan D.

1989-01-01

This work continues to develop advanced designs toward the ultimate goal of a GETAWAY SPECIAL to demonstrate economical removal of orbital debris utilizing local resources in orbit. The fundamental technical feasibility was demonstrated last year through theoretical calculations, quantitative computer animation, a solar focal point cutter, a robotic arm design and a subscale model. During this reporting period, several improvements are made in the solar cutter, such as auto track capabilities, better quality reflectors and a more versatile framework. The major advance has been in the design, fabrication and working demonstration of a ROBOTIC ARM that has several degrees of freedom. The functions were specifically tailored for the orbital debris handling. These advances are discussed here. Also a small fraction of the resources were allocated towards research in flame augmentation in SCRAMJETS for the NASP. Here, the fundamental advance was the attainment of Mach numbers up to 0.6 in the flame zone and a vastly improved injection system; the current work is expected to achieve supersonic combustion in the laboratory and an advanced monitoring system.

Improving tsunami resiliency: California's Tsunami Policy Working Group

USGS Publications Warehouse

Real, Charles R.; Johnson, Laurie; Jones, Lucile M.; Ross, Stephanie L.; Kontar, Y.A.; Santiago-Fandiño, V.; Takahashi, T.

2014-01-01

California has established a Tsunami Policy Working Group to facilitate development of policy recommendations for tsunami hazard mitigation. The Tsunami Policy Working Group brings together government and industry specialists from diverse fields including tsunami, seismic, and flood hazards, local and regional planning, structural engineering, natural hazard policy, and coastal engineering. The group is acting on findings from two parallel efforts: The USGS SAFRR Tsunami Scenario project, a comprehensive impact analysis of a large credible tsunami originating from an M 9.1 earthquake in the Aleutian Islands Subduction Zone striking California’s coastline, and the State’s Tsunami Preparedness and Hazard Mitigation Program. The unique dual-track approach provides a comprehensive assessment of vulnerability and risk within which the policy group can identify gaps and issues in current tsunami hazard mitigation and risk reduction, make recommendations that will help eliminate these impediments, and provide advice that will assist development and implementation of effective tsunami hazard risk communication products to improve community resiliency.

Creating Indices Representing the Atmospheric Conditions throughout Japan by Using Frontal Zone Data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takahashi, N.

2015-12-01

The climate of Japan exhibits mid-latitude and east coast condition characteristics within the continent, which leads to the large meridional range of the frontal migration and the resultant large annual seasonal change. Therefore, describing the long-term behavior of frontal zones is important for understanding the seasonal, interannual, and long-term variations of the Japanese climate. The purpose of this work is to create indices representing the atmospheric conditions throughout Japan by using frontal zone data created by an objective method at pentad intervals for the period 1948-2013. The indexation was conducted by principal component analyses on the distribution maps of the frontal frequencies near frontal zones, which are defined as the latitude indicating the maximum of the frontal frequencies along each longitude in the climatological mean field. This work focuses on the first four factors, PC1-4, which indicate high contribution rates. The distribution maps of factor loadings were interpreted in the following manner as variations of the frontal zone: PC1, north-south variations in the locations of the frontal zone; PC2, frontal frequencies around the frontal zone; PC3, the running direction of the frontal zone, whether northwest-southeast or southwest-northeast; and PC4, west-east variations of the frontal frequencies. These factors could be regarded as the indices representing the atmospheric conditions throughout Japan. The result of correlation analysis among the indices in this work and those representing global climatic phenomena such as Niño3 sea surface temperature (SST), in addition to Pacific decadal and Arctic oscillations, indicated the comprehensive relationships revealed in previous research. Furthermore, several long-term trend characteristics were exhibited, such as the southward shift of frontal zones in mid- and late spring and the increase of frontal frequencies around frontal zones in mid- and late summer. Thus, the simple indices created in this work verify the effectiveness in the investigation of climate change with regard to the seasonal march.

Visual outcomes and prognostic factors in open-globe injuries.

PubMed

Fujikawa, Azusa; Mohamed, Yasser Helmy; Kinoshita, Hirofumi; Matsumoto, Makiko; Uematsu, Masafumi; Tsuiki, Eiko; Suzuma, Kiyoshi; Kitaoka, Takashi

2018-06-08

Ocular trauma is an important cause of visual loss worldwide. Improvements in our knowledge of the pathophysiology and management of ocular trauma during the past 30 years, in conjunction with advances in the instrumentation and techniques of ocular surgery, have improved the efficacy of vitreoretinal surgery in injured eyes. The aim of the current study was to determine the visual outcomes and prognostic factors of open-globe injuries in the Japanese population. Retrospective study of 59 eyes of 59 patients presented with open globe injuries between September 2008 and March 2014 at Nagasaki University Hospital was conducted. Demographic factors including age, gender, and clinical data such as cause of injury, presenting visual acuity (VA), location of injury, type of injury, lens status, presence of intraocular foreign body, types of required surgeries, and final VA were recorded. According to the classification of Ocular Trauma Classification Group, wound location was classified into three zones. Chi-square test was used to compare presented data. Out of the 59 patients, 46 were placed in the Light Perception (LP) group, and 13 were placed in the No Light Perception (NLP) group. Work-related trauma was the most common cause (27 eyes) followed by falls (19eyes). Work-related trauma was common in males (P = 0.004), while falls was significantly common in females (P = 0.00001). Zone III injuries had statistically significantly poor prognostic factor compared to other zones (P = 0.04). All cases of NLP group (100%) presented with rupture globe. Poor VA at first visit (P = 0.00001), rupture globe (P = 0.026), history of penetrating keratoplasty (PK) (P = 0.017), retinal detachment (RD) (P = 0.0001), vitreous hemorrhage (VH) (P = 0.044), and dislocation of crystalline lens (P = 0.0003) were considered as poor prognostic factors. Poor VA at first visit, rupture globe, zone III injuries, history of penetrating keratoplasty, RD, VH, and dislocation of crystalline lens were found to be poor prognostic factors. PPV had a good prognostic value in open globe injuries associated with posterior segment involvement.

33 CFR 165.104 - Safety Zone: Vessel Launches, Bath Iron Works, Kennebec River, Bath, Maine.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) PORTS AND WATERWAYS SAFETY REGULATED NAVIGATION... Bath Iron Works dry dock while it is being moved to and from its moored position at the Bath Iron Works... into or movement within this zone is prohibited unless authorized by the Captain of the Port, Portland...

Design of lane merges at rural freeway construction work zones.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2008-02-01

The goal of this project is to evaluate unconventional lane-drop merge configurations in the vicinity of construction work zones on rural freeways to comparatively assess the conditions of the various designs that impact delay, flow, and safety throu...

Demonstration of innovative techniques for work zone safety data analysis

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-07-15

Based upon the results of the simulator data analysis, additional future research can be : identified to validate the driving simulator in terms of similarities with Ohio work zones. For : instance, the speeds observed in the simulator were greater f...

Design of lane merges at rural freeway construction work zones.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2012-10-01

Practices for the design and control of work zone traffic control configurations have evolved over time : to reflect safer and more efficient management practices. However, they are also recognized as areas : of frequent vehicle conflicts that can ca...

23 CFR 630.1002 - Purpose.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING AND TRAFFIC OPERATIONS PRECONSTRUCTION PROCEDURES Work Zone Safety and Mobility § 630.1002 Purpose. Work zones directly impact the safety and mobility of road users and highway workers. These safety and mobility impacts are exacerbated by an aging...

23 CFR 630.1002 - Purpose.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING AND TRAFFIC OPERATIONS PRECONSTRUCTION PROCEDURES Work Zone Safety and Mobility § 630.1002 Purpose. Work zones directly impact the safety and mobility of road users and highway workers. These safety and mobility impacts are exacerbated by an aging...

23 CFR 630.1002 - Purpose.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING AND TRAFFIC OPERATIONS PRECONSTRUCTION PROCEDURES Work Zone Safety and Mobility § 630.1002 Purpose. Work zones directly impact the safety and mobility of road users and highway workers. These safety and mobility impacts are exacerbated by an aging...

Minimizing traffic-related work zone crashes in Illinois.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-04-01

This report presents the findings of a research project to study and develop recommendations to minimize work : zone crashes in Illinois. The objectives of this project were (1) to provide in-depth comprehensive review of the : latest literature on t...

Analysis of existing work-zone devices with MASH safety performance criteria.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-02-01

Crashworthy, work-zone, portable sign support systems accepted under NCHRP Report No. 350 were analyzed to : predict their safety peformance according to the TL-3 MASH evaluation criteria. An analysis was conducted to determine : which hardware param...

Portable traffic management system smart work zone application : operational test evaluation report

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1997-05-01

As part of its statewide Intelligent Transportation System (ITS), The Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT) sponsored an operational test of the Portable Traffic Management System (PTMS) in a work zone application in cooperation with its pr...

Investigation of alternative work zone merging sign configurations.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-12-01

This study investigated the effect of an alternative merge sign configuration within a freeway work zone. In this alternative : configuration, the graphical lane closed sign from the MUTCD was compared with a MERGE/arrow sign on one side and a : RIGH...

Optimal design of work zone median crossovers.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-09-01

The use of temporary median crossovers in work zones allows for the closure of one side of a multi-lane roadway while : maintaining two-way traffic on the opposite side. This process provides the ability for construction and maintenance crews : to co...

Evaluation of a mobile work zone barrier system : appendices.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-08-01

A high percentage of highway maintenance activities and some construction activities are performed in a travel lane, median, or shoulder while the public travels by at relatively high speeds in very close proximity to the workers. Work zone traffic c...

Calibration of work zone impact analysis software for Missouri.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-12-01

This project calibrated two software programs used for estimating the traffic impacts of work zones. The WZ Spreadsheet : and VISSIM programs were recommended in a previous study by the authors. The two programs were calibrated using : field data fro...

Simplified web-based decision support method for traffic management and work zone analysis.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-01-01

Traffic congestion mitigation is one of the key challenges that transportation planners and operations engineers face when planning for construction and maintenance activities. There is a wide variety of approaches and methods that address work zone ...

Evaluation of modified work zone traffic control devices at business accesses

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2001-01-01

Modified work zone traffic control devices at business accesses were evaluated on two Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) projects in 1999 and 2000. On one section project, blue Temporary Business Access" signs were used at business accesses d...

Examination of factors associated in motorcycle crashes in work zones.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-01-01

This paper analyzes the factors associated with motorcycle crashes in work zones. This analysis was completed : through the collection and inspection of three types of data: 1) practices used throughout the country on this topic, : 2) crash reports a...

Evaluation of a mobile work zone barrier system.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-08-01

A high percentage of highway maintenance activities and some construction activities are performed in a travel lane, median, or shoulder while the public travels by at relatively high speeds in very close proximity to the workers. Work zone traffic c...

Frequency of work zone accidents on construction projects : final report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2005-08-01

The overall objective of this research was to study work zone accidents in New York State, with particular attention to the : occurrence and mitigation of rear-end vehicle accidents. The specific objectives were to: : - Recommend changes to the NYSDO...

Work-zone traffic performance measures : tech transfer summary.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-09-01

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) 2004 Work Zone Safety and Mobility Rule applies to all state and local government agencies that receive federal-aid highway funding after October 12, 2007. This rule was an update to the former regulation (23...

Evaluation of radar activated changeable message sign for work zone speed control.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2002-01-01

The Maine Department of Transportation recently tested new equipment designed to help reduce the : incidence of speeding in construction work zones. The project utilized a radar-activated, trailer mounted, : changeable message sign (CMS). The CMS spe...

Solid oxide fuel cell systems with hot zones having improved reactant distribution

DOEpatents

Poshusta, Joseph C.; Booten, Charles W.; Martin, Jerry L.

2012-11-06

A Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) system having a hot zone with a center cathode air feed tube for improved reactant distribution, a CPOX reactor attached at the anode feed end of the hot zone with a tail gas combustor at the opposing end for more uniform heat distribution, and a counter-flow heat exchanger for efficient heat retention.

Solid oxide fuel cell systems with hot zones having improved reactant distribution

DOEpatents

Poshusta, Joseph C; Booten, Charles W; Martin, Jerry L

2013-12-24

A Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) system having a hot zone with a center cathode air feed tube for improved reactant distribution, a CPOX reactor attached at the anode feed end of the hot zone with a tail gas combustor at the opposing end for more uniform heat distribution, and a counter-flow heat exchanger for efficient heat retention.

Solid oxide fuel cell systems with hot zones having improved reactant distribution

DOEpatents

Poshusta, Joseph C.; Booten, Charles W.; Martin, Jerry L.

2016-05-17

A Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) system having a hot zone with a center cathode air feed tube for improved reactant distribution, a CPOX reactor attached at the anode feed end of the hot zone with a tail gas combustor at the opposing end for more uniform heat distribution, and a counter-flow heat exchanger for efficient heat retention.

The “Gray Zone” of Police Work During Mental Health Encounters: Findings from an Observational Study in Chicago

PubMed Central

Wood, Jennifer D; Watson, Amy C; Fulambarker, Anjali J

2016-01-01

Although improving police responses to mental health crises has received significant policy attention, most encounters between police and persons with mental illnesses do not involve major crimes or violence, nor do they rise to the level of requiring emergency apprehension. Here, we report on field observations of police officers handling mental health-related encounters in Chicago. Findings confirm that these encounters often occur in the “gray zone”, where the problems at hand do not call for formal or legalistic interventions including arrest and emergency apprehension. In examining how police resolved such situations, we observed three core features of police work: (1) accepting temporary solutions to chronic vulnerability; (2) using local knowledge to guide decision-making; and (3) negotiating peace with complainants and call subjects. Study findings imply the need to advance field-based studies using systematic social observations of gray zone decision-making within and across distinct geographic and place-based contexts. Policy implications for supporting police interventions, including place-based enhancements of gray zone resources, are also discussed. PMID:28286406

Testing a full‐range soil‐water retention function in modeling water potential and temperature

USGS Publications Warehouse

Andraski, Brian J.; Jacobson, Elizabeth A.

2000-01-01

Recent work has emphasized development of full‐range water‐retention functions that are applicable under both wet and dry soil conditions, but evaluation of such functions in numerical modeling has been limited. Here we show that simulations using the Rossi‐Nimmo (RN) full‐range function compared favorably with those using the common Brooks‐Corey function and that the RN function can improve prediction of water potentials in near‐surface soil, particularly under dry conditions. Simulations using the RN function also improved prediction of temperatures throughout the soil profile. Such improvements could be important for calculations of liquid and vapor flow in near‐surface soils and in deep unsaturated zones of arid and semiarid regions.

Recent findings relating to firefighter safety zones

Treesearch

Bret Butler; Russ Parsons; William Mell

2015-01-01

Designation of safety zones is a primary duty of all wildland firefighters. Unfortunately, information regarding what constitutes an adequate safety zone is inadequately defined. Measurements of energy release from wildland fires have been used to develop an empirically based safety zone guideline. The basis for this work is described here.

Effectiveness of changeable message signs in controlling vehicle speeds in work zones.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1994-01-01

Work zone speeds have customarily been regulated by standard regulatory or advisory speed signs. However, most drivers do not slow down in response to these static speed control measures. The changeable message sign (CMS) with radar unit has dynamic ...

23 CFR 630.1008 - State-level processes and procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 630.1008 Highways FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING AND TRAFFIC OPERATIONS PRECONSTRUCTION PROCEDURES Work Zone Safety and Mobility § 630.1008 State-level processes and... sustain their respective work zone safety and mobility policies. State-level processes and procedures...

23 CFR 630.1008 - State-level processes and procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 630.1008 Highways FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING AND TRAFFIC OPERATIONS PRECONSTRUCTION PROCEDURES Work Zone Safety and Mobility § 630.1008 State-level processes and... sustain their respective work zone safety and mobility policies. State-level processes and procedures...

23 CFR 630.1008 - State-level processes and procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 630.1008 Highways FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING AND TRAFFIC OPERATIONS PRECONSTRUCTION PROCEDURES Work Zone Safety and Mobility § 630.1008 State-level processes and... sustain their respective work zone safety and mobility policies. State-level processes and procedures...

Mash evaluation of TxDOT high-mounting-height temporary work zone sign support system.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-02-01

The objective of this research was to develop a nonproprietary, lightweight, crashworthy, temporary work-zone single sign support for use with an aluminum sign substrate. The device is intended to meet the evaluation criteria in American Association ...

Guidance on data needs, availability, and opportunities for work zone performance measures.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-03-01

Current Federal Regulations (23 CFR 630 Subpart J) encourage States to collect and analyze both safety and mobility data to support the initiation and enhancement of agency-level processes and procedures addressing work zone impacts. The purpose of t...

Using historical crash data as part of traffic work zone safety planning and project management strategies.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2014-07-01

This funding enabled the project entitled, USING HISTORICAL CRASH DATA AS PART OF TRAFFIC WORK ZONE SAFETY : PLANNING AND PROJECT MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES to address the following: : Evaluate current organizational strategies with respect to w...

Developing a smartphone based warning system application to enhance the safety at work zones : final report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-05-01

Collisions in the work zone have always been a contributing factor to compromising safety on urban roadways. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the State Transportation Authorities have implemented many safety countermeasu...

Evaluation of the late merge work zone traffic control strategy.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2004-01-01

Several alternative lane merge strategies have been proposed in recent years to process vehicles through work zone lane closures more safely and efficiently. Among these is the late merge. With the late merge, drivers are instructed to use all lanes ...

Utilization of remote traffic monitoring devices for urban freeway work zone assessment.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2012-01-01

The objective of this project was to promote and facilitate analysis and evaluation of the impacts of road construction activities in Smart : Work Zone Deployment Initiative (SWZDI) states. : The two primary objectives of this project were to assess ...

Evaluation of the work zone safety and mobility rule.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-03-01

The Work Zone Safety and Mobile Rule (Rule) was published in the Federal Register in September 2004 indicating that all state and local governments receiving Federal-aid funding were required to comply with provisions of the Rule no later than Octobe...

Feasibility of lane closures using probe data : technical brief.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-04-01

This study developed an on-line system analysis tool called the Work Zone Interactive : Management Application - Planning (WIMAP-P), an easy-to-use and easy-to-learn tool for : predicting the traffic impact caused by work zone lane closures on freewa...

Care zoning in a psychiatric intensive care unit: strengthening ongoing clinical risk assessment.

PubMed

Mullen, Antony; Drinkwater, Vincent; Lewin, Terry J

2014-03-01

To implement and evaluate the care zoning model in an eight-bed psychiatric intensive care unit and, specifically, to examine the model's ability to improve the documentation and communication of clinical risk assessment and management. Care zoning guides nurses in assessing clinical risk and planning care within a mental health context. Concerns about the varying quality of clinical risk assessment prompted a trial of the care zoning model in a psychiatric intensive care unit within a regional mental health facility. The care zoning model assigns patients to one of 3 'zones' according to their clinical risk, encouraging nurses to document and implement targeted interventions required to manage those risks. An implementation trial framework was used for this research to refine, implement and evaluate the impact of the model on nurses' clinical practice within the psychiatric intensive care unit, predominantly as a quality improvement initiative. The model was trialled for three months using a pre- and postimplementation staff survey, a pretrial file audit and a weekly file audit. Informal staff feedback was also sought via surveys and regular staff meetings. This trial demonstrated improvement in the quality of mental state documentation, and clinical risk information was identified more accurately. There was limited improvement in the quality of care planning and the documentation of clinical interventions. Nurses' initial concerns over the introduction of the model shifted into overall acceptance and recognition of the benefits. The results of this trial demonstrate that the care zoning model was able to improve the consistency and quality of risk assessment information documented. Care planning and evaluation of associated outcomes showed less improvement. Care zoning remains a highly applicable model for the psychiatric intensive care unit environment and is a useful tool in guiding nurses to carry out routine patient risk assessments. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Final Project Report: Imaging Fault Zones Using a Novel Elastic Reverse-Time Migration Imaging Technique

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

Huang, Lianjie; Chen, Ting; Tan, Sirui

Imaging fault zones and fractures is crucial for geothermal operators, providing important information for reservoir evaluation and management strategies. However, there are no existing techniques available for directly and clearly imaging fault zones, particularly for steeply dipping faults and fracture zones. In this project, we developed novel acoustic- and elastic-waveform inversion methods for high-resolution velocity model building. In addition, we developed acoustic and elastic reverse-time migration methods for high-resolution subsurface imaging of complex subsurface structures and steeply-dipping fault/fracture zones. We first evaluated and verified the improved capabilities of our newly developed seismic inversion and migration imaging methods using synthetic seismicmore » data. Our numerical tests verified that our new methods directly image subsurface fracture/fault zones using surface seismic reflection data. We then applied our novel seismic inversion and migration imaging methods to a field 3D surface seismic dataset acquired at the Soda Lake geothermal field using Vibroseis sources. Our migration images of the Soda Lake geothermal field obtained using our seismic inversion and migration imaging algorithms revealed several possible fault/fracture zones. AltaRock Energy, Inc. is working with Cyrq Energy, Inc. to refine the geologic interpretation at the Soda Lake geothermal field. Trenton Cladouhos, Senior Vice President R&D of AltaRock, was very interested in our imaging results of 3D surface seismic data from the Soda Lake geothermal field. He planed to perform detailed interpretation of our images in collaboration with James Faulds and Holly McLachlan of University of Nevada at Reno. Using our high-resolution seismic inversion and migration imaging results can help determine the optimal locations to drill wells for geothermal energy production and reduce the risk of geothermal exploration.« less

[Cleanliness in the operating room].

PubMed

Suzuki, Toshiyasu

2010-05-01

With regard to recent findings in the cleanliness of the operating room, concerning handwashing and performing operations, the traditional method of excessive scrubbing using a brush is not effective, and handwashing using only an alcohol-containing antiseptic hand rub (rubbing method) has become common practice. Use of a brush has already been abolished in some medical institutions. In addition, sterilized water used for handwashing when performing operations has no scientific basis and use of tap water is considered sufficient. Furthermore, the concept of operating room zoning has also undergone a dramatic change. It was discovered that a layout focusing on work efficiency is more desirable than the one that follows an excessively rigid zoning pattern. One-footwear System not requiring change of shoes also has various advantages in improving the efficiency of the operation room, and this is thought to become commonplace in the future.

Proposed positive protection guidance for Kansas : synthesis of work zone positive protection devices and state of practice.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-02-01

The United States experiences over 700 fatalities and over 37,000 injuries each year in temporary : construction and maintenance work zones. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has implemented : Temporary Traffic Control Devices 23 CFR 630 Subp...

Minimizing user delay and crash potential through highway work zone planning.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2014-05-01

Lane closures due to highway work zones introduce many challenges to ensuring smooth traffic operations and a : safe environment for drivers and workers. In addition, merging has been found to be one of the most stressful : aspects of driving and a m...

Intelligent Transportation Systems In Work Zones: A Cross-Cutting Study

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2002-11-01

Work zones cause congestion, and result in more than 800 fatalities and 37,000 injuries in the U.S. every year. However, as our infrastructure ages, there is an increasing need for the maintenance and rehabilitation of our roadways, which means more ...

24 CFR 983.155 - Completion of housing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... with local requirements (such as code and zoning requirements); and (ii) An architect's certification that the housing complies with: (A) HUD housing quality standards; (B) State, local, or other building codes; (C) Zoning; (D) The rehabilitation work write-up (for rehabilitated housing) or the work...

24 CFR 983.155 - Completion of housing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... with local requirements (such as code and zoning requirements); and (ii) An architect's certification that the housing complies with: (A) HUD housing quality standards; (B) State, local, or other building codes; (C) Zoning; (D) The rehabilitation work write-up (for rehabilitated housing) or the work...

24 CFR 983.155 - Completion of housing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... with local requirements (such as code and zoning requirements); and (ii) An architect's certification that the housing complies with: (A) HUD housing quality standards; (B) State, local, or other building codes; (C) Zoning; (D) The rehabilitation work write-up (for rehabilitated housing) or the work...

24 CFR 983.155 - Completion of housing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... with local requirements (such as code and zoning requirements); and (ii) An architect's certification that the housing complies with: (A) HUD housing quality standards; (B) State, local, or other building codes; (C) Zoning; (D) The rehabilitation work write-up (for rehabilitated housing) or the work...

24 CFR 983.155 - Completion of housing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... with local requirements (such as code and zoning requirements); and (ii) An architect's certification that the housing complies with: (A) HUD housing quality standards; (B) State, local, or other building codes; (C) Zoning; (D) The rehabilitation work write-up (for rehabilitated housing) or the work...

Customer satisfaction with the FHWA peer-to-peer program : a qualitative assessment

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1989-07-01

This report is a synthesis of research findings and current practices in controlling and protecting pedestrian traffic in work zones. The information presented here is based on a review of research reports and work zone manuals from a selection of st...

Testing of alternative supporting materials for portable roll-up signs used for maintenance work zones : [summary].

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-08-01

Portable roll-up signs are currently used by the Texas Department of Transportation for identification of short-term maintenance/work zones and emergency operations. These signs have fiberglass frames that directly support diamond-shaped and rectangu...

Investigation of truck mounted attenuator (TMA) crashes in work zones in Virginia.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2015-10-01

Truck mounted attenuators (TMAs) are deployed on shadow vehicles in work zones to mitigate the effects of errant : vehicles that strike the shadow vehicle, either by smoothly decelerating the vehicle to a stop when hit head-on or by redirecting : the...

A laboratory validation study of the time-lapse oscillatory pumping test concept for leakage detection in geological repositories

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, A. Y.; Islam, A.; Lu, J.

2017-12-01

Time-lapse oscillatory pumping test (OPT) has been introduced recently as a pressure-based monitoring technique for detecting potential leakage in geologic repositories. By routinely conducting OPT at a number of pulsing frequencies, a site operator may identify the potential anomalies in the frequency domain, alleviating the ambiguity caused by reservoir noise and improving the signal-to-noise ratio. Building on previous theoretical and field studies, this work performed a series of laboratory experiments to validate the concept of time-lapse OPT using a custom made, stainless steel tank under relatively high pressures ( 120psi). The experimental configuration simulates a miniature geologic storage repository consisting of three layers (i.e., injection zone, caprock, and above-zone aquifer). Results show that leakage in the injection zone led to deviations in the power spectrum of observed pressure data, and the amplitude of which also increases with decreasing pulsing frequencies. The experimental results were further analyzed by developing a 3D flow model, using which the model parameters were estimated through frequency domain inversion.

Evaluating penalized logistic regression models to predict Heat-Related Electric grid stress days

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

Bramer, L. M.; Rounds, J.; Burleyson, C. D.

Understanding the conditions associated with stress on the electricity grid is important in the development of contingency plans for maintaining reliability during periods when the grid is stressed. In this paper, heat-related grid stress and the relationship with weather conditions is examined using data from the eastern United States. Penalized logistic regression models were developed and applied to predict stress on the electric grid using weather data. The inclusion of other weather variables, such as precipitation, in addition to temperature improved model performance. Several candidate models and datasets were examined. A penalized logistic regression model fit at the operation-zone levelmore » was found to provide predictive value and interpretability. Additionally, the importance of different weather variables observed at different time scales were examined. Maximum temperature and precipitation were identified as important across all zones while the importance of other weather variables was zone specific. The methods presented in this work are extensible to other regions and can be used to aid in planning and development of the electrical grid.« less

Evaluating penalized logistic regression models to predict Heat-Related Electric grid stress days

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

Bramer, Lisa M.; Rounds, J.; Burleyson, C. D.

Understanding the conditions associated with stress on the electricity grid is important in the development of contingency plans for maintaining reliability during periods when the grid is stressed. In this paper, heat-related grid stress and the relationship with weather conditions were examined using data from the eastern United States. Penalized logistic regression models were developed and applied to predict stress on the electric grid using weather data. The inclusion of other weather variables, such as precipitation, in addition to temperature improved model performance. Several candidate models and combinations of predictive variables were examined. A penalized logistic regression model which wasmore » fit at the operation-zone level was found to provide predictive value and interpretability. Additionally, the importance of different weather variables observed at various time scales were examined. Maximum temperature and precipitation were identified as important across all zones while the importance of other weather variables was zone specific. In conclusion, the methods presented in this work are extensible to other regions and can be used to aid in planning and development of the electrical grid.« less

Determination of the profile of DO and its mass transferring coefficient in a biofilm reactor packed with semi-suspended bio-carriers.

PubMed

Tang, Bing; Song, Haoliang; Bin, Liying; Huang, Shaosong; Zhang, Wenxiang; Fu, Fenglian; Zhao, Yiliang; Chen, Qianyu

2017-10-01

The work aims at illustrating the profile of DO and its mass transferring process in a biofilm reactor packed with a novel semi-suspended bio-carrier, and further revealing the main factors that influence the mass transferring coefficient of DO within the biofilm. Results showed that the biofilm was very easy to attach and grow on the semi-suspended bio-carrier, which obviously changed the DO profile inside and outside the biofilm. The semi-suspended bio-carrier caused three different mass transfer zones occurring in the bioreactor, including the zones of bulk solution, boundary layer and biofilm, in which, the boundary layer zone had an obvious higher mass transfer resistance. Increasing the aeration rate might improve the hydrodynamic conditions in the bioreactor and accelerate the mass transfer of DO, but it also detached the biofilm from the surface of bio-carrier, which reduced the consumption of DO, and accordingly, decreased the DO gradient in the bioreactor. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Evaluating penalized logistic regression models to predict Heat-Related Electric grid stress days

DOE PAGES

Bramer, Lisa M.; Rounds, J.; Burleyson, C. D.; ...

2017-09-22

Understanding the conditions associated with stress on the electricity grid is important in the development of contingency plans for maintaining reliability during periods when the grid is stressed. In this paper, heat-related grid stress and the relationship with weather conditions were examined using data from the eastern United States. Penalized logistic regression models were developed and applied to predict stress on the electric grid using weather data. The inclusion of other weather variables, such as precipitation, in addition to temperature improved model performance. Several candidate models and combinations of predictive variables were examined. A penalized logistic regression model which wasmore » fit at the operation-zone level was found to provide predictive value and interpretability. Additionally, the importance of different weather variables observed at various time scales were examined. Maximum temperature and precipitation were identified as important across all zones while the importance of other weather variables was zone specific. In conclusion, the methods presented in this work are extensible to other regions and can be used to aid in planning and development of the electrical grid.« less

33 CFR 165.5 - Establishment procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... safety zone or security zone is made less than 5 working days before the zone is to be established, the request may be made orally, but it must be followed by a written request within 24 hours. (Requests for...

Unsteady Aerodynamic Response of a Linear Cascade of Airfoils in Separated Flow

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Capece, Vincent R.; Ford, Christopher; Bone, Christopher; Li, Rui

2004-01-01

The overall objective of this research program was to investigate methods to modify the leading edge separation region, which could lead to an improvement in aeroelastic stability of advanced airfoil designs. The airfoil section used is representative of current low aspect ratio fan blade tip sections. The experimental potion of this study investigated separated zone boundary layer from removal through suction slots. Suction applied to a cavity in the vicinity of the separation onset point was found to be the most effective location. The computational study looked into the influence of front camber on flutter stability. To assess the influence of the change in airfoil shape on stability the work-per-cycle was evaluated for torsion mode oscillations. It was shown that the front camberline shape can be an important factor for stabilizing the predicted work-per-cycle and reducing the predicted extent of the separation zone. In addition, data analysis procedures are discussed for reducing data acquired in experiments that involve periodic unsteady data. This work was conducted in support of experiments being conducted in the NASA Glenn Research Center Transonic Flutter Cascade. The spectral block averaging method is presented. This method is shown to be able to account for variations in airfoil oscillation frequency that can occur in experiments that force oscillate the airfoils to simulate flutter.

Growth parameter dependent structural and optical properties of ZnO nanostructures on Si substrate by a two-zone thermal CVD.

PubMed

Lee, Hee Kwan; Yu, Jae Su

2012-04-01

We investigated the effect of growth parameters on the structural and optical properties of the ZnO nanostructures (NSs) grown on Au-coated Si substrate by a two-zone thermal chemical vapor deposition. The morphologies of ZnO NSs were controlled by various growth parameters, such as growth temperature, O2 flow rate, and working pressure, for different thicknesses of Au layer. The nanorod-like ZnO NSs were formed at 915 degrees C and the growth of two-dimensional structures, i.e., nanosheets, was enhanced with the increase of growth temperature up to 965 degrees C. It was found that the low working pressure contributed to improvement in vertical alignment and uniformity of ZnO NSs. The Zn/O atomic % ratio, which plays a key role in the growth mechanism of ZnO NSs, was changed by the growth parameters. The Zn/O atomic % ratio was increased with increasing the growth temperature, while it was decreased with increasing the working pressure. Under proper O2 flow rate, the ZnO nanorods with good crystallinity were fabricated with a Zn/O atomic % ratio of -0.9. For various growth parameters, the photoluminescence emission was slightly shifted with the ultraviolet emission related to the near band edge transition.

A Method for Response Time Measurement of Electrosensitive Protective Devices.

PubMed

Dźwiarek, Marek

1996-01-01

A great step toward the improvement of safety at work was made when electrosensitive protective devices (ESPDs) were applied to the protection of press and robot-assisted manufacturing system operators. The way the device is mounted is crucial. The parameters of ESPD mounting that ensure safe distance from the controlled dangerous zone are response time, sensitivity, and the dimensions of the detection zone. The proposed experimental procedure of response time measurement is realized in two steps, with a test piece penetrating the detection zone twice. In the first step, low-speed penetration (at a speed v m ) enables the detection zone border to be localized. In the second step of measurement, the probe is injected at a high speed V d . The actuator rod position is measured and when it is equal to the value L registered by the earlier measurements, counting time begins as well as the monitoring of the state of the equipment under test (EUT) output relays. After the state changes, time tp is registered. The experimental procedure is realized on a special experimental stand. Because the stand has been constructed for certification purposes, the design satisfies the requirements imposed by Polski Komitet Normalizacyjny (PKN, 1995). The experimental results prove the measurement error to be smaller than ± 0.6 ms.

Modification of the Gurney Equation for Explosive Bonding by Slanted Elevation Angle

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-04-01

researching high temperature fatigue behaviour and modelling of ferritic pressure vessel steel , for which he was awarded the degree at the University of...weld metal solidification cracking in steels and stainless steels . He has also undertaken extensive work on improving the weld zone toughness of high... steel (2.0) 15 2.4 16 300 x300 1: S defines ‘Superaustenitic’. The flyer plate was placed on the top of the bottom plate for each test with

[Knowledge of the "Gräfenberg zone" and female ejaculation in ancient Indian sexual science. A medical history contribution].

PubMed

Syed, R

1999-01-01

Ancient Indian texts in sexology (kamaśastra) from the 11th century onwards prove that their authors knew about the area later termed the "Gräfenberg zone" in Europe, as well as about the female ejaculation connected with the stimulation of this area. The Gräfenberg zone is a sexually arousable zone in the front part of the vagina, stimulation of which can lead to the discharge of liquid from the urethra, a phenomenon which is described as female ejaculation. The german gynaecologist Ernst Gräfenberg, who worked in America, described this zone, situated beneath the clitoris, for the first time (at least in this century) in Western medicine in an article published in 1950. (There are, however, evidences, that the 17th-century anatomist Regnier de Graaf had knowledge about the mentioned erogenous zone as well as female ejaculation.) Since the 1980s the so-called Gräfenberg zone, popularly termed "G-spot", and female ejaculation have been controversially discussed medically as well as in popular science, first in the United States, then in Europe; both phenomena have meanwhile been accepted as facts in medical manuals and reference books (e.g. the "Pschyrembel"). Whereas the oldest and most well-known sexological-erotological work of Ancient India, the Kamasutra, dating probably from the third century A.D., apparently did not know the Gräfenberg zone and female ejaculation, texts such as the Pañcasayaka (11th century), Jayamangala (Yaśodhara's commentary on the Kamasutra from the 13th century), the Ratirahasya (13th century), as well as the late kamaśastra-works Smaradipika and Anangaranga (16th century?) demonstrably describe both, the Gräfenberg zone and female ejaculation, in great detail. The female ejaculation is described already in the 7th century in a non-kamaśastra-text, in a work of the poet Amaru called the Amaruśataka.

Pulverized coal burner

DOEpatents

Sivy, J.L.; Rodgers, L.W.; Koslosy, J.V.; LaRue, A.D.; Kaufman, K.C.; Sarv, H.

1998-11-03

A burner is described having lower emissions and lower unburned fuel losses by implementing a transition zone in a low NO{sub x} burner. The improved burner includes a pulverized fuel transport nozzle surrounded by the transition zone which shields the central oxygen-lean fuel devolatilization zone from the swirling secondary combustion air. The transition zone acts as a buffer between the primary and the secondary air streams to improve the control of near-burner mixing and flame stability by providing limited recirculation regions between primary and secondary air streams. These limited recirculation regions transport evolved NO{sub x} back towards the oxygen-lean fuel pyrolysis zone for reduction to molecular nitrogen. Alternate embodiments include natural gas and fuel oil firing. 8 figs.

Pulverized coal burner

DOEpatents

Sivy, Jennifer L.; Rodgers, Larry W.; Koslosy, John V.; LaRue, Albert D.; Kaufman, Keith C.; Sarv, Hamid

1998-01-01

A burner having lower emissions and lower unburned fuel losses by implementing a transition zone in a low NO.sub.x burner. The improved burner includes a pulverized fuel transport nozzle surrounded by the transition zone which shields the central oxygen-lean fuel devolatilization zone from the swirling secondary combustion air. The transition zone acts as a buffer between the primary and the secondary air streams to improve the control of near-burner mixing and flame stability by providing limited recirculation regions between primary and secondary air streams. These limited recirculation regions transport evolved NO.sub.x back towards the oxygen-lean fuel pyrolysis zone for reduction to molecular nitrogen. Alternate embodiments include natural gas and fuel oil firing.

Improved oil recovery using bacteria isolated from North Sea petroleum reservoirs

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

Davey, R.A.; Lappin-Scott, H.

1995-12-31

During secondary oil recovery, water is injected into the formation to sweep out the residual oil. The injected water, however, follows the path of least resistance through the high-permeability zones, leaving oil in the low-permeability zones. Selective plugging of these their zones would divert the waterflood to the residual oil and thus increase the life of the well. Bacteria have been suggested as an alternative plugging agent to the current method of polymer injection. Starved bacteria can penetrate deeply into rock formations where they attach to the rock surfaces, and given the right nutrients can grow and produce exo-polymer, reducingmore » the permeability of these zones. The application of microbial enhanced oil recovery has only been applied to shallow, cool, onshore fields to date. This study has focused on the ability of bacteria to enhance oil recovery offshore in the North Sea, where the environment can be considered extreme. A screen of produced water from oil reservoirs (and other extreme subterranean environments) was undertaken, and two bacteria were chosen for further work. These two isolates were able to grow and survive in the presence of saline formation waters at a range of temperatures above 50{degrees}C as facultative anaerobes. When a solution of isolates was passed through sandpacks and nutrients were added, significant reductions in permeabilities were achieved. This was confirmed in Clashach sandstone at 255 bar, when a reduction of 88% in permeability was obtained. Both isolates can survive nutrient starvation, which may improve penetration through the reservoir. Thus, the isolates show potential for field trials in the North Sea as plugging agents.« less

Analysis of work zone rear-end crash risk for different vehicle-following patterns.

PubMed

Weng, Jinxian; Meng, Qiang; Yan, Xuedong

2014-11-01

This study evaluates rear-end crash risk associated with work zone operations for four different vehicle-following patterns: car-car, car-truck, truck-car and truck-truck. The deceleration rate to avoid the crash (DRAC) is adopted to measure work zone rear-end crash risk. Results show that the car-truck following pattern has the largest rear-end crash risk, followed by truck-truck, truck-car and car-car patterns. This implies that it is more likely for a car which is following a truck to be involved in a rear-end crash accident. The statistical test results further confirm that rear-end crash risk is statistically different between any two of the four patterns. We therefore develop a rear-end crash risk model for each vehicle-following pattern in order to examine the relationship between rear-end crash risk and its influencing factors, including lane position, the heavy vehicle percentage, lane traffic flow and work intensity which can be characterized by the number of lane reductions, the number of workers and the amount of equipment at the work zone site. The model results show that, for each pattern, there will be a greater rear-end crash risk in the following situations: (i) heavy work intensity; (ii) the lane adjacent to work zone; (iii) a higher proportion of heavy vehicles and (iv) greater traffic flow. However, the effects of these factors on rear-end crash risk are found to vary according to the vehicle-following patterns. Compared with the car-car pattern, lane position has less effect on rear-end crash risk in the car-truck pattern. The effect of work intensity on rear-end crash risk is also reduced in the truck-car pattern. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Fast-Food Fights: News Coverage of Local Efforts to Improve Food Environments Through Land-Use Regulations, 2000–2013

PubMed Central

Mejia, Pamela; Dorfman, Lori; Cheyne, Andrew; Young, Sandra; Friedman, Lissy C.; Gottlieb, Mark A.; Wooten, Heather

2015-01-01

Zoning and other land-use policies are a promising but controversial strategy to improve community food environments. To understand how these policies are debated, we searched existing databases and the Internet and analyzed news coverage and legal documentation of efforts to restrict fast-food restaurants in 77 US communities in 2001 to 2013. Policies intended to improve community health were most often proposed in urban, racially diverse communities; policies proposed in small towns or majority-White communities aimed to protect community aesthetics or local businesses. Health-focused policies were subject to more criticism than other policies and were generally less successful. Our findings could inform the work of advocates interested in employing land-use policies to improve the food environment in their own communities. PMID:25602875

7 CFR 25.403. - Ongoing 2-year work plan requirement.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 25.403. Agriculture Office of the Secretary of Agriculture RURAL EMPOWERMENT ZONES AND ENTERPRISE COMMUNITIES Post-Designation Requirements § 25.403. Ongoing 2-year work plan requirement. (a) Each Empowerment... conditional upon the designation of the community as an Empowerment Zone; and (iv) Documentation of...

7 CFR 25.403. - Ongoing 2-year work plan requirement.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 25.403. Agriculture Office of the Secretary of Agriculture RURAL EMPOWERMENT ZONES AND ENTERPRISE COMMUNITIES Post-Designation Requirements § 25.403. Ongoing 2-year work plan requirement. (a) Each Empowerment... conditional upon the designation of the community as an Empowerment Zone; and (iv) Documentation of...

7 CFR 25.403. - Ongoing 2-year work plan requirement.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 25.403. Agriculture Office of the Secretary of Agriculture RURAL EMPOWERMENT ZONES AND ENTERPRISE COMMUNITIES Post-Designation Requirements § 25.403. Ongoing 2-year work plan requirement. (a) Each Empowerment... conditional upon the designation of the community as an Empowerment Zone; and (iv) Documentation of...

Effect of flaggers and spotters in directing work zone traffic for Illinois expressways and freeways.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2014-01-01

This research project focused on assessing the effectiveness and essential role of flaggers and spotters in : directing traffic for expressway and freeway work zones in Illinois with a posted speed limit greater than 40 mph. : The objectives of this ...

Work zone impacts assessment : an approach to assess and management work zone safety and mobility impacts of road projects

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2006-05-01

To help transportation agencies understand and implement the provisions of the Rule, FHWA has : developed four guidance documents. This Guide is designed to help transportation agencies : develop and/or update their own policies, processes, and proce...

Proposed positive protection guidance for Kansas : synthesis of work zone positive protection devices and state practice : [technical summary].

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-02-01

The United States experiences over 700 fatalities and over 37,000 injuries each year in : temporary construction and maintenance work zones. The Federal Highway Administration : (FHWA) has implemented Temporary Traffic Control Devices 23 CFR 630 Subp...

Impact of lane closures on roadway capacity, phase 2 : [summary].

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2014-01-01

Maintenance or construction on two-lane roads often requires setting up a work zone which closes one lane and uses the other for both traffic directions. Workers posted at each end of the work zone allow traffic to flow alternately one way and then t...

7 CFR 25.403. - Ongoing 2-year work plan requirement.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 25.403. Agriculture Office of the Secretary of Agriculture RURAL EMPOWERMENT ZONES AND ENTERPRISE COMMUNITIES Post-Designation Requirements § 25.403. Ongoing 2-year work plan requirement. (a) Each Empowerment... conditional upon the designation of the community as an Empowerment Zone; and (iv) Documentation of...

Shorter duration, safer work zones, more satisfied travelers : successful applications of full road closure in work zones

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1996-06-01

In January 1996, US Department of Transportation Secretary Federico Pena unveiled the Operation Timesaver initiative at the annual meeting of the transportation Research Board (TRB). The Secretary set a national goal of building and deploying an Inte...

Collaborating on convergent technologies: education and practice.

PubMed

Gorman, Michael E

2004-05-01

Converging technologies will require collaboration across disciplines. A good metaphor for such collaborations is the kind of trading zone that emerges whenever human beings from different cultures interact. NBIC must avoid trading zones that are dominated by one discipline or set of interests and instead encourage multiple stakeholders to form a shared mental model of what needs to be accomplished. An example is drawn from current work on societal dimensions of nanotechnology. Students need to gain experience working in such trading zones, in addition to acquiring disciplinary depth.

The Effect of Gaze Angle on Visual Acuity in Infantile Nystagmus.

PubMed

Dunn, Matt J; Wiggins, Debbie; Woodhouse, J Margaret; Margrain, Tom H; Harris, Christopher M; Erichsen, Jonathan T

2017-01-01

Most individuals with infantile nystagmus (IN) have an idiosyncratic gaze angle at which their nystagmus intensity is minimized. Some adopt an abnormal head posture to use this "null zone," and it has therefore long been assumed that this provides people with nystagmus with improved visual acuity (VA). However, recent studies suggest that improving the nystagmus waveform could have little, if any, influence on VA; that is, VA is fundamentally limited in IN. Here, we examined the impact of the null zone on VA. Visual acuity was measured in eight adults with IN using a psychophysical staircase procedure with reversals at three horizontal gaze angles, including the null zone. As expected, changes in gaze angle affected nystagmus amplitude, frequency, foveation duration, and variability of intercycle foveation position. Across participants, each parameter (except frequency) was significantly correlated with VA. Within any given individual, there was a small but significant improvement in VA (0.08 logMAR) at the null zone as compared with the other gaze angles tested. Despite this, no change in any of the nystagmus waveform parameters was significantly associated with changes in VA within individuals. A strong relationship between VA and nystagmus characteristics exists between individuals with IN. Although significant, the improvement in VA observed within individuals at the null zone is much smaller than might be expected from the occasionally large variations in intensity and foveation dynamics (and anecdotal patient reports of improved vision), suggesting that improvement of other aspects of visual performance may also encourage use of the null zone.

New York City's iZone. CRPE Working Paper #2011-1

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lake, Robin; Gross, Betheny

2011-01-01

Can public schools learn to embrace innovation and employ cutting edge technology to solve students' most persistent learning problems? In 2010, New York City's Department of Education (NYCDOE) created the Innovation Zone (iZone) to try to accomplish just that. This report reflects the findings of a CRPE study of the iZone, its goals and…

CNSFV code development, virtual zone Navier-Stokes computations of oscillating control surfaces and computational support of the laminar flow supersonic wind tunnel

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Klopfer, Goetz H.

1993-01-01

The work performed during the past year on this cooperative agreement covered two major areas and two lesser ones. The two major items included further development and validation of the Compressible Navier-Stokes Finite Volume (CNSFV) code and providing computational support for the Laminar Flow Supersonic Wind Tunnel (LFSWT). The two lesser items involve a Navier-Stokes simulation of an oscillating control surface at transonic speeds and improving the basic algorithm used in the CNSFV code for faster convergence rates and more robustness. The work done in all four areas is in support of the High Speed Research Program at NASA Ames Research Center.

Evaluation of temporary traffic signals in conjunction with pilot car operations at two-way long temporary work zones.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-05-01

The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the use of Portable Traffic Signal (PTS) systems at long, rural : two-lane work zones and to compare three different conditions for controlling one-lane traffic in conjunction with pilot car : opera...

A demonstration of expert systems applications in transportation engineering : volume II, TRANZ, a prototype expert system for traffic control in highway work zones.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1988-01-01

The development of a prototype knowledge-based expert system (KBES) for selecting appropriate traffic control strategies and management techniques around highway work zones was initiated. This process was encompassed by the steps that formulate the p...

Evaluation of knowledge transfer in an immersive virtual learning environment for the transportation community : research project capsule.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-01-01

In 2008 alone, 720 individuals were killed in a : construction or maintenance work zone in the : United States. However, since 2003, the total : number of individuals killed in a construction or : maintenance work zone in the US reached a : staggerin...

Effects of road construction intensity and operations on rural freeway work zone capacity.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2014-11-01

Capacity is affected by construction type and its intensity on adjacent open traffic lanes. The effect on capacity is a function of : vehicles moving in and out of the closed lanes of the work zone, and the presence of heavy construction vehicles. Co...

Work zone simulator analysis : driver performance and acceptance of Missouri alternate lane shift configurations.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-01-13

The objective of this project is to evaluate MoDOTs alternate lane shift sign configuration for work zones. The single sign proposed by MoDOT provides the traveler with enough information to let them know that all lanes are available to shift arou...

Evaluation of Traffic Information and Prediction System (TIPS) as work zone traffic control.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2004-03-01

As part of a pavement rehabilitation project on I-64, the Traffic Information and Prediction System (TIPS) was installed as a a means of providing real-time data for motorists in advance and through the work zone. This system collects real-time data ...

Photo radar speed enforcement in a state highway work zone : demonstration project Yeon Avenue.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-04-01

The 2007 Oregon legislative assembly passed House Bill 2466, allowing the Oregon Department of Transportation to use photo radar in ODOT work zones on non-interstate state highways and required ODOT to report back to them on the safety impacts of thi...

Crossing Comfort Zones.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Madison, D. Soyini

1993-01-01

Offers a narrative based on a real event, in the form of a "docustory," describing that moment when teaching worked--when, in an instructional setting, communication was "perfect" or "excellent." Describes how three very different students, in a course on the cultures of women of color, moved beyond comfort zones while working together on a class…

Public opinion and understanding of advance warning arrow displays used in short-term, mobile, and moving work zones.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2008-03-01

"In long-term work zones on multilane highways and/or freeways, the Federal Highway Administration has interpreted the : Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices to mean that only one advance warning arrow displays can be used to denote : the closur...

Development and MASH full-scale crash testing of a high-mounting-height temporary single sign support with aluminum sign.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-03-01

Work zone traffic control devices such as temporary single sign supports are a primary means to communicate : information to motorists in work zone areas. The Federal Highway Administration and the Manual on Uniform Traffic : Control Devices require ...

Reducing work zone crashes by using vehicle's flashers as a warning sign : final report

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-01-01

Rural two-lane highways constitute a large percentage of the highway system in Kansas. Preserving, expending, : and enhancing these highways require the set-up of a large number of one-lane, two-way work zones where traffic : safety has been a severe...

Developing an Agro-Ecological Zoning Model for Tumbleweed (Salsola kali), as Energy Crop in Drylands of Argentina

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Falasca, Silvia; Pitta-Alvarez, Sandra; Ulberich, Ana

2016-12-01

Salsola kali is considered extremely valuable as an energy crop worldwide because it adapts easily to environments with strong abiotic stresses (hydric, saline and alkaline) and produces large amounts of biomass in drylands. This species is categorized as an important weed in Argentina. The aim of this work was to design an agro-ecological zoning model for tumbleweed in Argentina, employing a Geography Information System. Based on the bioclimatic requirements for the species and the climatic data for Argentina (1981-2010 period), an agro-climatic suitability map was drawn. This map was superimposed on the saline and alkaline soil maps delineated by the Food and Agriculture Organization for dry climates, generating the agro-ecological zoning on a scale of 1 : 500 000. This zoning revealed very suitable and suitable cultivation areas on halomorphic soils. The potential growing areas extend from N of the Salta province (approximately 22° S) to the Santa Cruz province (50° S). The use of tumbleweed on halomorphic soils under semi-arid to arid conditions, for the dual purpose of forage use and source of lignocellulosic material for bioenergy, could improve agricultural productivity in these lands. Furthermore, it could also contribute to their environmental sustainability, since the species can be used to reclaim saline soils over the years. Based on international bibliography, the authors outlined an agro-ecological zoning model. This model may be applied to any part of the world, using the agro-ecological limits presented here.

Methods and apparatuses for cutting, abrading, and drilling

DOEpatents

Bingham, Dennis N.; Swainston, Richard C.; Palmer, Gary L.; Ferguson, Russell L.

2001-01-01

Methods and apparatuses for treating a surface of a work piece are described. In one implementation, a laser delivery subsystem is configured to direct a laser beam toward a treatment zone on a work surface. A cryogenic material delivery subsystem is operably coupled with the laser delivery subsystem and is configured to direct a stream comprising cryogenic material toward the treatment zone. Both the laser beam and stream cooperate to treat material of the work surface within the treatment zone. In one aspect, a nozzle assembly provides the laser beam and stream of cryogenic material along a common flow axis. In another aspect, the laser beam and stream are provided along different axes.

Improved predictions of saturated and unsaturated zone drawdowns in a heterogeneous unconfined aquifer via transient hydraulic tomography: Laboratory sandbox experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Berg, Steven J.; Illman, Walter A.

2012-11-01

SummaryInterpretation of pumping tests in unconfined aquifers has largely been based on analytical solutions that disregard aquifer heterogeneity. In this study, we investigate whether the prediction of drawdown responses in a heterogeneous unconfined aquifer and the unsaturated zone above it with a variably saturated groundwater flow model can be improved by including information on hydraulic conductivity (K) and specific storage (Ss) from transient hydraulic tomography (THT). We also investigate whether these predictions are affected by the use of unsaturated flow parameters estimated through laboratory hanging column experiments or calibration of in situ drainage curves. To investigate these issues, we designed and conducted laboratory sandbox experiments to characterize the saturated and unsaturated properties of a heterogeneous unconfined aquifer. Specifically, we conducted pumping tests under fully saturated conditions and interpreted the drawdown responses by treating the medium to be either homogeneous or heterogeneous. We then conducted another pumping test and allowed the water table to drop, similar to a pumping test in an unconfined aquifer. Simulations conducted using a variably saturated flow model revealed: (1) homogeneous parameters in the saturated and unsaturated zones have a difficult time predicting the responses of the heterogeneous unconfined aquifer; (2) heterogeneous saturated hydraulic parameter distributions obtained via THT yielded significantly improved drawdown predictions in the saturated zone of the unconfined aquifer; and (3) considering heterogeneity of unsaturated zone parameters produced a minor improvement in predictions in the unsaturated zone, but not the saturated zone. These results seem to support the finding by Mao et al. (2011) that spatial variability in the unsaturated zone plays a minor role in the formation of the S-shape drawdown-time curve observed during pumping in an unconfined aquifer.

The implementation of unit price of work standard SNI 7394: 2008 for the construction of reinforced concrete beam

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tripoli; Mubarak; Nurisra; Mahmuddin

2018-05-01

This paper discusses the implementation of Indonesian National Standard (SNI) 7394: 2008 on procedures for calculating the unit price of concrete work for the construction of building and housing. The standard provides some reinforced concrete constructions unit price (UP) analysis by specified the total number of reinforcing uses. Related to reinforced concrete beam work (Analysis No. 6.31), the reinforcement requirement is stated at 200 kg/m3 of concrete. Once the implementation considers various earthquake zoning, the question will arise about the extent to which the standard is feasible to apply. Therefore, this research aimed to analyze the possibility of UP standard implementation by certain earthquake zonation. This research is focused on the construction of reinforced concrete beam for buildings with function as educational, residential and office buildings. The data used are sourced from 21 buildings in two zones in Aceh Province, covering Zone 10 and Zone 15 based on earthquake map of SNI 1726: 2012. The analysis results indicate that the UP standard for reinforced concrete beam cannot be applied to all zoning. The UP standard is only possible on buildings constructed in Zone 10 or zonation with seismic spectral response 0.6g to 0.7g or lower.

Enhanced Amendment Delivery to Subsurface Using Shear Thinning Fluid and Aqueous Foam for Metal, Radionuclide, and NAPL Remediation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhong, L.; Szecsody, J.; Li, X.; Oostrom, M.; Truex, M.

2010-12-01

In many contamination sites, removal of contaminants by any active remediation efforts is not practical due to the high cost and technological limitations. Alternatively, in situ remediation is expected to be the most important remediation strategy. Delivery of reactive amendment to the contamination zone is essential for the reactions between the contaminants and remedial amendments to proceed in situ. It is a challenge to effectively deliver remedial amendment to the subsurface contamination source areas in both aquifer and vadose zone. In aquifer, heterogeneity induces fluid bypassing the low-permeability zones, resulting in certain contaminated areas inaccessible to the remedial amendment delivered by water injection, thus inhibiting the success of remedial operations. In vadose zone in situ remediation, conventional solution injection and infiltration for amendment delivery have difficulties to achieve successful lateral spreading and uniform distribution of the reactive media. These approaches also tend to displace highly mobile metal and radionuclide contaminants such as hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)] and technetium (Tc-99), causing spreading of contaminations. Shear thinning fluid and aqueous foam can be applied to enhance the amendment delivery and improve in situ subsurface remediation efficiency under aquifer and vadose zone conditions, respectively. Column and 2-D flow cell experiments were conducted to demonstrate the enhanced delivery and improved remediation achieved by the application of shear thinning fluid and foam injection at the laboratory scale. Solutions of biopolymer xanthan gum were used as the shear thinning delivering fluids. Surfactant sodium lauryl ether sulfate (STEOL CS-330) was the foaming agent. The shear thinning fluid delivery (STFD) considerably improved the sweeping efficiency over a heterogeneous system and enhanced the non-aqueous liquid phase (NAPL) removal. The delivery of amendment into low-perm zones (LPZs) by STFD also increased the persistence of amendment solution in the LPZs after injection. Immobilization of Tc-99 was improved when a reductant was delivered by foam versus by water-based solution to contaminated vadose zone sediments. Foam delivery remarkably improved the lateral distribution of fluids compared to direct liquid injection. In heterogeneous vadose zone formation, foam injection increased the liquid flow in the high permeable zones into which very limited fluid was distributed during liquid infiltration, demonstrating improved amendment distribution uniformity in the heterogeneous system by foam delivery.

Evaluation of temporary traffic signals in conjunction with pilot car operations at two-way long temporary work zones : technical summary.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-05-01

The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the use of Portable Traffic Signal (PTS) systems at long, rural two-lane work zones and to compare three different conditions for controlling one-lane traffic in conjunction with pilot car operation...

A snapshot of summer 2001 work zone activity : based on information reported on state road closure and construction websites

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2003-02-01

In a study sponsored by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), researchers conducted a survey of 789 work zones posted on 13 state road closure and construction websites during a two-week snapshot of the peak summer roadwork season in 2001. The g...

Meeting the customer's needs for mobility and safety during construction and maintenance operations : model work zone traffic management program and self evaluation guide

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1998-09-01

This model program was developed by combining traffic management concepts reported in research studies and papers with the effective techniques currently being used by States to minimize motorist delays and enhance work zone safety. This model is pre...

Investigation of work zone crash casualty patterns using association rules.

PubMed

Weng, Jinxian; Zhu, Jia-Zheng; Yan, Xuedong; Liu, Zhiyuan

2016-07-01

Investigation of the casualty crash characteristics and contributory factors is one of the high-priority issues in traffic safety analysis. In this paper, we propose a method based on association rules to analyze the characteristics and contributory factors of work zone crash casualties. A case study is conducted using the Michigan M-94/I-94/I-94BL/I-94BR work zone crash data from 2004 to 2008. The obtained association rules are divided into two parts including rules with high-lift, and rules with high-support for the further analysis. The results show that almost all the high-lift rules contain either environmental or occupant characteristics. The majority of association rules are centered on specific characteristics, such as drinking driving, the highway with more than 4 lanes, speed-limit over 40mph and not use of traffic control devices. It should be pointed out that some stronger associated rules were found in the high-support part. With the network visualization, the association rule method can provide more understandable results for investigating the patterns of work zone crash casualties. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Numerical simulation of the stress distribution in a coal mine caused by a normal fault

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Hongmei; Wu, Jiwen; Zhai, Xiaorong

2017-06-01

Luling coal mine was used for research using FLAC3D software to analyze the stress distribution characteristics of the two sides of a normal fault zone with two different working face models. The working faces were, respectively, on the hanging wall and the foot wall; the two directions of mining were directed to the fault. The stress distributions were different across the fault. The stress was concentrated and the influenced range of stress was gradually larger while the working face was located on the hanging wall. The fault zone played a negative effect to the stress transmission. Obviously, the fault prevented stress transmission, the stress concentrated on the fault zone and the hanging wall. In the second model, the stress on the two sides decreased at first, but then increased continuing to transmit to the hanging wall. The concentrated stress in the fault zone decreased and the stress transmission was obvious. Because of this, the result could be used to minimize roadway damage and lengthen the time available for coal mining by careful design of the roadway and working face.

Universal scaling of the distribution of land in urban areas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Riascos, A. P.

2017-09-01

In this work, we explore the spatial structure of built zones and green areas in diverse western cities by analyzing the probability distribution of areas and a coefficient that characterize their respective shapes. From the analysis of diverse datasets describing land lots in urban areas, we found that the distribution of built-up areas and natural zones in cities obey inverse power laws with a similar scaling for the cities explored. On the other hand, by studying the distribution of shapes of lots in urban regions, we are able to detect global differences in the spatial structure of the distribution of land. Our findings introduce information about spatial patterns that emerge in the structure of urban settlements; this knowledge is useful for the understanding of urban growth, to improve existing models of cities, in the context of sustainability, in studies about human mobility in urban areas, among other applications.

The Habitable Zone Gallery 2.0: The Online Exoplanet System Visualization Suite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chandler, C. O.; Kane, S. R.; Gelino, D. M.

2017-11-01

The Habitable Zone Gallery 2.0 provides new and improved visualization and data analysis tools to the exoplanet habitability community and beyond. Modules include interactive habitable zone plotting and downloadable 3D animations.

Driving simulator validation of driver behavior with limited safe vantage points for data collection in work zones.

PubMed

Bham, Ghulam H; Leu, Ming C; Vallati, Manoj; Mathur, Durga R

2014-06-01

This study is aimed at validating a driving simulator (DS) for the study of driver behavior in work zones. A validation study requires field data collection. For studies conducted in highway work zones, the availability of safe vantage points for data collection at critical locations can be a significant challenge. A validation framework is therefore proposed in this paper, demonstrated using a fixed-based DS that addresses the issue by using a global positioning system (GPS). The validation of the DS was conducted using objective and subjective evaluations. The objective validation was divided into qualitative and quantitative evaluations. The DS was validated by comparing the results of simulation with the field data, which were collected using a GPS along the highway and video recordings at specific locations in a work zone. The constructed work zone scenario in the DS was subjectively evaluated with 46 participants. The objective evaluation established the absolute and relative validity of the DS. The mean speeds from the DS data showed excellent agreement with the field data. The subjective evaluation indicated realistic driving experience by the participants. The use of GPS showed that continuous data collected along the highway can overcome the challenges of unavailability of safe vantage points especially at critical locations. Further, a validated DS can be used for examining driver behavior in complex situations by replicating realistic scenarios. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Role of Subsurface Physics in the Assimilation of Surface Soil Moisture Observations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reichle, R. H.

2010-01-01

Root zone soil moisture controls the land-atmosphere exchange of water and energy and exhibits memory that may be useful for climate prediction at monthly scales. Assimilation of satellite-based surface soil moisture observations into a land surface model is an effective way to estimate large-scale root zone soil moisture. The propagation of surface information into deeper soil layers depends on the model-specific representation of subsurface physics that is used in the assimilation system. In a suite of experiments we assimilate synthetic surface soil moisture observations into four different models (Catchment, Mosaic, Noah and CLM) using the Ensemble Kalman Filter. We demonstrate that identical twin experiments significantly overestimate the information that can be obtained from the assimilation of surface soil moisture observations. The second key result indicates that the potential of surface soil moisture assimilation to improve root zone information is higher when the surface to root zone coupling is stronger. Our experiments also suggest that (faced with unknown true subsurface physics) overestimating surface to root zone coupling in the assimilation system provides more robust skill improvements in the root zone compared with underestimating the coupling. When CLM is excluded from the analysis, the skill improvements from using models with different vertical coupling strengths are comparable for different subsurface truths. Finally, the skill improvements through assimilation were found to be sensitive to the regional climate and soil types.

Vadose Zone Transport Field Study: Summary Report

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

Ward, Andy L.; Conrad, Mark E.; Daily, William D.

2006-07-31

From FY 2000 through FY 2003, a series of vadose zone transport field experiments were conducted as part of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Groundwater/Vadose Zone Integration Project Science and Technology Project, now known as the Remediation and Closure Science Project, and managed by the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL). The series of experiments included two major field campaigns, one at a 299-E24-11 injection test site near PUREX and a second at a clastic dike site off Army Loop Road. The goals of these experiments were to improve our understanding of vadose zone transport processes; to develop data sets tomore » validate and calibrate vadose zone flow and transport models; and to identify advanced monitoring techniques useful for evaluating flow-and-transport mechanisms and delineating contaminant plumes in the vadose zone at the Hanford Site. This report summarizes the key findings from the field studies and demonstrates how data collected from these studies are being used to improve conceptual models and develop numerical models of flow and transport in Hanford’s vadose zone. Results of these tests have led to a better understanding of the vadose zone. Fine-scale geologic heterogeneities, including grain fabric and lamination, were observed to have a strong effect on the large-scale behavior of contaminant plumes, primarily through increased lateral spreading resulting from anisotropy. Conceptual models have been updated to include lateral spreading and numerical models of unsaturated flow and transport have revised accordingly. A new robust model based on the concept of a connectivity tensor was developed to describe saturation-dependent anisotropy in strongly heterogeneous soils and has been incorporated into PNNL’s Subsurface Transport Over Multiple Phases (STOMP) simulator. Application to field-scale transport problems have led to a better understanding plume behavior at a number of sites where lateral spreading may have dominated waste migration (e.g. BC Cribs and Trenches). The improved models have been also coupled with inverse models and newly-developed parameter scaling techniques to allow estimation of field-scale and effective transport parameters for the vadose zone. The development and utility of pedotransfer functions for describing fine-scale hydrogeochemical heterogeneity and for incorporating this heterogeneity into reactive transport models was explored. An approach based on grain-size statistics appears feasible and has been used to describe heterogeneity in hydraulic properties and sorption properties, such as the cation exchange capacity and the specific surface area of Hanford sediments. This work has also led to the development of inverse modeling capabilities for time-dependent, subsurface, reactive transport with transient flow fields using an automated optimization algorithm. In addition, a number of geophysical techniques investigated for their potential to provide detailed information on the subtle changes in lithology and bedding surfaces; plume delineation, leak detection. High-resolution resistivity is now being used for detecting saline plumes at several waste sites at Hanford, including tank farms. Results from the field studies and associated analysis have appeared in more than 46 publications generated over the past 4 years. These publications include test plans and status reports, in addition to numerous technical notes and peer reviewed papers.« less

Class III Mid-Term Project, "Increasing Heavy Oil Reserves in the Wilmington Oil Field Through Advanced Reservoir Characterization and Thermal Production Technologies"

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

Scott Hara

2007-03-31

The overall objective of this project was to increase heavy oil reserves in slope and basin clastic (SBC) reservoirs through the application of advanced reservoir characterization and thermal production technologies. The project involved improving thermal recovery techniques in the Tar Zone of Fault Blocks II-A and V (Tar II-A and Tar V) of the Wilmington Field in Los Angeles County, near Long Beach, California. A primary objective has been to transfer technology that can be applied in other heavy oil formations of the Wilmington Field and other SBC reservoirs, including those under waterflood. The first budget period addressed several producibilitymore » problems in the Tar II-A and Tar V thermal recovery operations that are common in SBC reservoirs. A few of the advanced technologies developed include a three-dimensional (3-D) deterministic geologic model, a 3-D deterministic thermal reservoir simulation model to aid in reservoir management and subsequent post-steamflood development work, and a detailed study on the geochemical interactions between the steam and the formation rocks and fluids. State of the art operational work included drilling and performing a pilot steam injection and production project via four new horizontal wells (2 producers and 2 injectors), implementing a hot water alternating steam (WAS) drive pilot in the existing steamflood area to improve thermal efficiency, installing a 2400-foot insulated, subsurface harbor channel crossing to supply steam to an island location, testing a novel alkaline steam completion technique to control well sanding problems, and starting on an advanced reservoir management system through computer-aided access to production and geologic data to integrate reservoir characterization, engineering, monitoring, and evaluation. The second budget period phase (BP2) continued to implement state-of-the-art operational work to optimize thermal recovery processes, improve well drilling and completion practices, and evaluate the geomechanical characteristics of the producing formations. The objectives were to further improve reservoir characterization of the heterogeneous turbidite sands, test the proficiency of the three-dimensional geologic and thermal reservoir simulation models, identify the high permeability thief zones to reduce water breakthrough and cycling, and analyze the nonuniform distribution of the remaining oil in place. This work resulted in the redevelopment of the Tar II-A and Tar V post-steamflood projects by drilling several new wells and converting idle wells to improve injection sweep efficiency and more effectively drain the remaining oil reserves. Reservoir management work included reducing water cuts, maintaining or increasing oil production, and evaluating and minimizing further thermal-related formation compaction. The BP2 project utilized all the tools and knowledge gained throughout the DOE project to maximize recovery of the oil in place.« less

Principles and Concepts for Information and Communication Technology Design.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Adams, Ray; Langdon, Patrick

2003-01-01

This article presents a theory for evaluating information and communication technology design for individuals with disabilities. Simplex 1 evaluates designs in five zones: sensory and input zone; output zone; abstract working memory; long-term memory; and central executive functioning. Simplex 2 evaluates feedback, emotional responses, cognitive…

Characteristics of worker accidents on NYSDOT construction projects.

PubMed

Mohan, Satish; Zech, Wesley C

2005-01-01

This paper aims at providing cost-effective safety measures to protect construction workers in highway work zones, based on real data. Two types of accidents that occur in work zones were: (a) construction work area accidents, and (b) traffic accidents involving construction worker(s). A detailed analysis of work zone accidents involving 36 fatalities and 3,055 severe injuries to construction workers on New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) construction projects from 1990 to 2001 established that five accident types: (a) Struck/Pinned by Large Equipment, (b) Trip or Fall (elevated), (c) Contact w/Electrical or Gas Utility, (d) Struck-by Moving/Falling Load, and (e) Crane/Lift Device Failure accounted for nearly 96% of the fatal accidents, nearly 63% of the hospital-level injury accidents, and nearly 91% of the total costs. These construction work area accidents had a total cost of $133.8 million. Traffic accidents that involve contractors' employees were also examined. Statistical analyses of the traffic accidents established that five traffic accident types: (a) Work Space Intrusion, (b) Worker Struck-by Vehicle Inside Work Space, (c) Flagger Struck-by Vehicle, (d) Worker Struck-by Vehicle Entering/Exiting Work Space, and (e) Construction Equipment Struck-by Vehicle Inside Work Space accounted for nearly 86% of the fatal, nearly 70% of the hospital-level injury and minor injury traffic accidents, and $45.4 million (79.4%) of the total traffic accident costs. The results of this paper provide real statistics on construction worker related accidents reported on construction work zones. Potential preventions based on real statistics have also been suggested. The ranking of accident types, both within the work area as well as in traffic, will guide the heavy highway contractor and owner agencies in identifying the most cost effective safety preventions.

Large area silicon sheet by EFG. [furnace growth techniques

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1981-01-01

The development of a technique for the production of silicon ribbon is discussed. Extensive characterization of the multiple ribbon Furnace 3A main zone temperature profile was performed and the information used to improve uniformity of heating. Irregularities in the main zone heater were associated with growth difficulties at specific cartridge locations, and growth conditions subsequently improved by profiling the main zone heater. Good growth conditions were established in all three cartridge positions. These improvements allowed multiple growth of three 10 cm wide ribbons to be demonstrated for periods of an hour on several occasions. A gas distribution system for the 10 cm cartridge was introduced and demonstrated to lead to improved ambient control during growth. Growth without and with CO2 showed that quality improvement in 10 cm ribbon grown with cold shoes results from ambient manipulation.

Particle velocity measurements of the reaction zone in nitromethane

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

Sheffield, S. A.; Engelke, R. P.; Alcon, R. R.

2002-01-01

The detonation reaction-zone length in neat, deuterated, and chemically sensitized nitromethane (NM) has been measured by using several different laser-based velocity interferometry systems. The experiments involved measuring the particle velocity history at a NM/PMMA (polymethylmethacrylate) window interface during the time a detonation in the NM interacted with the interface. Initially, Fabry-Perot interferometry was used, but, because of low time resolution (>5 ns), several different configurations of VISAR interferometry were subsequently used. Early work was done with VISARs with a time resolution of about 3 ns. By making changes to the recording system, we were able to improve this to {approx}1more » ns. Profiles measured at the NM/PMMA interface agree with the ZND theory, in that a spike ({approx}2.45 mm/{micro}s) is measured that is consistent with an extrapolated reactant NM Hugoniot matched to the PMMA window. The spike is rather sharp, followed by a rapid drop in particle velocity over a time of 5 to 10 ns; this is evidence of early fast reactions. Over about 50 ns, a much slower particle velocity decrease occurs to the assumed CJ condition - indicating a total reaction zone length of {approx}300 {micro}m. When the NM is chemically changed, such as replacing the hydrogen atoms with deuterium or chemically sensitizing with a base, some changes are observed in the early part of the reaction zone.« less

Harlem Children's Zone (HCZ) Promise Academy Charter Schools. What Works Clearinghouse Intervention Report

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

What Works Clearinghouse, 2018

2018-01-01

This intervention report presents findings from a systematic review of the "Harlem Children's Zone (HCZ) Promise Academy Charter Schools" conducted using the What Works Clearinghouse (WWC) Procedures and Standards Handbook (version 3.0) and the Charter Schools review protocol (version 3.0). No studies of the "HCZ Promise Academy…

Taking Yellowstone's Temperature: a New Clinopyroxene Geothermometer to Improve Timescales of Pre-eruptive Events

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brugman, K. K.; Till, C. B.

2017-12-01

The goal of our research is to quantify the time period between events in the magma chamber and eruption for the Scaup Lake rhyolite lava, as it erupted after a period of quiescence similar to what Yellowstone is experiencing today. The overarching goal of studies such as this that focus on past eruptions is to provide context and statistics that will ultimately improve volcano monitoring at different types of active volcanoes. The Scaup Lake flow contains zoned minerals (e.g., feldspar, zircon, clinopyroxene) that record multiple magma injection events shortly before they were erupted. Our previous work using nano-scale elemental concentration profiles from zoned clinopyroxene (cpx) as a diffusion dating tool reinforced our hypothesis that different minerals may not record the same series of pre-eruptive events, and that cpx crystal rims record older events in the Scaup Lake flow (on the order of 100s of years prior to eruption [Brugman et al., AGU OSPA talk, 2016]) than do feldspar rims (< 10 months and 10-40 years prior to eruption [Till et al., Geology, 2015]). In light of new temperature data, we have updated our diffusion dating results to better quantify pre-eruption timescales at Yellowstone.

Analysis of heat recovery of diesel engine using intermediate working fluid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jin, Lei; Zhang, Jiang; Tan, Gangfeng; Liu, Huaming

2017-07-01

The organic Rankine cycle (ORC) is an effective way to recovery the engine exhaust heat. The thermal stability of the evaporation system is significant for the stable operation of the ORC system. In this paper, the performance of the designed evaporation system which combines with the intermediate fluid for recovering the exhaust waste heat from a diesel engine is evaluated. The thermal characteristics of the target diesel engine exhaust gas are evaluated based on the experimental data firstly. Then, the mathematical model of the evaporation system is built based on the geometrical parameters and the specific working conditions of ORC. Finally, the heat transfer characteristics of the evaporation system are estimated corresponding to three typical operating conditions of the diesel engine. The result shows that the exhaust temperature at the evaporator outlet increases slightly with the engine speed and load. In the evaporator, the heat transfer coefficient of the Rankine working fluid is slightly larger than the intermediate fluid. However, the heat transfer coefficient of the intermediate fluid in the heat exchanger is larger than the exhaust side. The heat transfer areas of the evaporator in both the two-phase zone and the preheated zone change slightly along with the engine working condition while the heat transfer areas of the overheated zone has changed obviously. The maximum heat transfer rate occurs in the preheating zone while the minimum value occurs in the overheating zone. In addition, the Rankine working fluid temperature at the evaporator outlet is not sensitively affected by the torque and speed of the engine and the organic fluid flow is relatively stable. It is concluded that the intermediate fluid could effectively reduce the physical changes of Rankine working fluid in the evaporator outlet due to changes in engine operating conditions.

Heterogeneity in the Fault Damage Zone: a Field Study on the Borrego Fault, B.C., Mexico

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ostermeijer, G.; Mitchell, T. M.; Dorsey, M. T.; Browning, J.; Rockwell, T. K.; Aben, F. M.; Fletcher, J. M.; Brantut, N.

2017-12-01

The nature and distribution of damage around faults, and its impacts on fault zone properties has been a hot topic of research over the past decade. Understanding the mechanisms that control the formation of off fault damage can shed light on the processes during the seismic cycle, and the nature of fault zone development. Recent published work has identified three broad zones of damage around most faults based on the type, intensity, and extent of fracturing; Tip, Wall, and Linking damage. Although these zones are able to adequately characterise the general distribution of damage, little has been done to identify the nature of damage heterogeneity within those zones, often simplifying the distribution to fit log-normal linear decay trends. Here, we attempt to characterise the distribution of fractures that make up the wall damage around seismogenic faults. To do so, we investigate an extensive two dimensional fracture network exposed on a river cut platform along the Borrego Fault, BC, Mexico, 5m wide, and extending 20m from the fault core into the damage zone. High resolution fracture mapping of the outcrop, covering scales ranging three orders of magnitude (cm to m), has allowed for detailed observations of the 2D damage distribution within the fault damage zone. Damage profiles were obtained along several 1D transects perpendicular to the fault and micro-damage was examined from thin-sections at various locations around the outcrop for comparison. Analysis of the resulting fracture network indicates heterogeneities in damage intensity at decimetre scales resulting from a patchy distribution of high and low intensity corridors and clusters. Such patchiness may contribute to inconsistencies in damage zone widths defined along 1D transects and the observed variability of fracture densities around decay trends. How this distribution develops with fault maturity and the scaling of heterogeneities above and below the observed range will likely play a key role in understanding the evolution of fault damage, it's feedback into the seismic cycle, and impact on fluid migration in fault zones. The dataset from the Borrego Fault offers a unique opportunity to study the distribution of fault damage in-situ, and provide field observations towards improving fault zone models.

Intelligent Mining Engineering Systems in the Structure of Industry 4.0

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rylnikova, Marina; Radchenko, Dmitriy; Klebanov, Dmitriy

2017-11-01

The solution of the problem of improving the human environment and working conditions at mines is based on the provision of the rationale of parameters and conditions for the implementation of an environmentally balanced cycle of comprehensive development of mineral deposits on the basis of the design of mining engineering systems characterized by the minimization of the human factor effect in danger zones of mining operations. In this area, robotized technologies are being developed, machinery and mechanisms with the elements of artificial intelligence, and mining and transport system automatic controls are being put into service throughout the world. In the upcoming decades, mining machines and mechanisms will be virtually industrial robots. The article presents the results of zoning of open-pit and underground mine production areas, as well as mining engineering system of combined development depending on the fact and periodicity of human presence in zones of mining processes. As a surface geotechnology case study, the software structure based on a modular concept is described. The performance philosophy of mining and transport equipment with the elements of artificial intelligence is shown when it is put into service in an open pit.

A laboratory validation study of the time-lapse oscillatory pumping test for leakage detection in geological repositories

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Alexander Y.; Lu, Jiemin; Islam, Akand

2017-05-01

Geologic repositories are extensively used for disposing byproducts in mineral and energy industries. The safety and reliability of these repositories are a primary concern to environmental regulators and the public. Time-lapse oscillatory pumping test (OPT) has been introduced recently as a pressure-based technique for detecting potential leakage in geologic repositories. By routinely conducting OPT at a number of pulsing frequencies, an operator may identify the potential repository anomalies in the frequency domain, alleviating the ambiguity caused by reservoir noise and improving the signal-to-noise ratio. Building on previous theoretical and field studies, this work performed a series of laboratory experiments to validate the concept of time-lapse OPT using a custom made, stainless steel tank under relatively high pressures. The experimental configuration simulates a miniature geologic storage repository consisting of three layers (i.e., injection zone, caprock, and above-zone aquifer). Results show that leakage in the injection zone led to deviations in the power spectrum of observed pressure data, and the amplitude of which also increases with decreasing pulsing frequencies. The experimental results are further analyzed by developing a 3D flow model, using which the model parameters are estimated through frequency domain inversion.

3D simulation of polyurethane foam injection and reacting mold flow in a complex geometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Özdemir, İ. Bedii; Akar, Fırat

2018-05-01

The aim of the present work is to develop a flow model which can be used to determine the paths of the polyurethane foam in the mold filling process of a refrigerator cabinet so that improvements in the distribution and the size of the venting holes can be achieved without the expensive prototyping and experiments. For this purpose, the multi-component, two-phase chemically reacting flow is described by Navier Stokes and 12 scalar transport equations. The air and the multi-component foam zones are separated by an interface, which moves only with advection since the mass diffusion of species are set zero in the air zone. The inverse density, viscosity and other diffusion coefficients are calculated by a mass fraction weighted average of the corresponding temperature-dependent values of all species. Simulations are performed in a real refrigerator geometry, are able to reveal the problematical zones where air bubbles and voids trapped in the solidified foam are expected to occur. Furthermore, the approach proves itself as a reliable design tool to use in deciding the locations of air vents and sizing the channel dimensions.

Effect of pin tool design on the material flow of dissimilar AA7075-AA6061 friction stir welds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hasan, Mohammed M.; Ishak, M.; Rejab, M. R. M.

2017-10-01

Tool design is the most influential aspect in the friction stir welding (FSW) technology. Influence of pin tool geometry on material flow pattern are studied in this work during the FSW of dissimilar AA7075 and AA6061 aluminium alloys. Three truncated pin tool profiles (threaded, threaded with single flat, and unthreaded with single flat) were used to prepare the weldments. The workpieces were joined using a custom-made clamping system under 1100 rpm of spindle speed, 300 mm/min of traverse rate and 3° of tilt angle. The metallographic analysis showed that defect-free welds can be produced using the three pin tools with significant changes in the mixing stir zone structure. The results declared that the introducing of the flat on the cone of the probe deviates the pattern of the onion rings without changing the chemical composition of the created layers. This in turn improves the hardness distribution and tensile strength of the welded joint. It was also noted that both heat affected zone (HAZ) and thermal-mechanical affected zone (TMAZ) are similar in composition to their corresponding base materials (BM).

Numerical research of reburning-process of burning of coal-dust torch

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Trinchenko, Alexey; Paramonov, Aleksandr; Kadyrov, Marsel; Koryabkin, Aleksey

2017-10-01

This work is dedicated to numerical research of ecological indicators of technological method of decrease in emissions of nitrogen oxides at combustion of solid fuel in coal-dust torch to improve the energy efficiency of steam boilers. The technology of step burning with additional input in zone of the maximum concentration of pollutant of strongly crushed fuel for formation of molecular nitrogen on surface of the burning carbon particles is considered. Results of modeling and numerical researches of technology, their analysis and comparison with the experimental data of the reconstructed boiler are given. Results of work show that input of secondary fuel allows to reduce emissions of nitrogen oxides by boiler installation without prejudice to its economic indicators.

Simulation and experimental study of aspect ratio limitation in Fresnel zone plates for hard-x-ray optics.

PubMed

Liu, Jianpeng; Shao, Jinhai; Zhang, Sichao; Ma, Yaqi; Taksatorn, Nit; Mao, Chengwen; Chen, Yifang; Deng, Biao; Xiao, Tiqiao

2015-11-10

For acquiring high-contrast and high-brightness images in hard-x-ray optics, Fresnel zone plates with high aspect ratios (zone height/zone width) have been constantly pursued. However, knowledge of aspect ratio limits remains limited. This work explores the achievable aspect ratio limit in polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) by electron-beam lithography (EBL) under 100 keV, and investigates the lithographic factors for this limitation. Both Monte Carlo simulation and EBL on thick PMMA are applied to investigate the profile evolution with exposure doses over 100 nm wide dense zones. A high-resolution scanning electron microscope at low acceleration mode for charging free is applied to characterize the resultant zone profiles. It was discovered for what we believe is the first time that the primary electron-beam spreading in PMMA and the proximity effect due to extra exposure from neighboring areas could be the major causes of limiting the aspect ratio. Using the optimized lithography condition, a 100 nm zone plate with aspect ratio of 15/1 was fabricated and its focusing property was characterized at the Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility. The aspect ratio limit found in this work should be extremely useful for guiding further technical development in nanofabrication of high-quality Fresnel zone plates.

Lessons learned from the 2010 evacuations at Merapi volcano

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mei, Estuning Tyas Wulan; Lavigne, Franck; Picquout, Adrien; de Bélizal, Edouard; Brunstein, Daniel; Grancher, Delphine; Sartohadi, Junun; Cholik, Noer; Vidal, Céline

2013-07-01

The rapid onset and large magnitude of the 2010 eruption of Merapi posed significant challenges for evacuations and resulted in a peak number of almost 400,000 Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). A pre-existing hazard map and an evacuation plan based on the relatively small magnitude of previous eruptions of the 20th century were utilized by emergency officials during the initial phase of the eruption (25 October-3 November, 2010). However, when the magnitude of the eruption increased greatly on 3-5 November 2010, the initial evacuation plan had to be abandoned as danger zones were expanded rapidly and the scale and pace of the evacuation increased dramatically. Fortunately, orders to evacuate were communicated quickly through a variety of communication methods and as a result many thousands of lives were saved. However, there were also problems that resulted from this rapid and larger-than-expected evacuation; and there were lessons learned that can improve future mass evacuations at Merapi and other volcanoes. We analyzed the results of 1969 questionnaires and conducted a series of interviews with community leaders and emergency officials. Results were compiled for periods both during and after the 2010 eruption. Our results show that: (1) trust in the Indonesian government and volcanologists was very high after the eruption; (2) multiple modes of communication were used to relay warnings and evacuation orders; (3) 50% to 70% of IDPs returned to the danger zone during the crisis despite evacuation orders; (4) preparation before the eruption was critical to the successes and included improvements to roads and education programs, (5) public education about hazards and evacuation protocols before the eruption was focused in the perceived highest danger zone where it was effective yet, confusion and loss of life in other areas demonstrated that education programs in all hazard zones are needed to prepare for larger-than-normal eruptions, and (6) improvements in registration of evacuees, in providing for livestock, and in activities and work programs in evacuation camps (as well as government restrictions and policy changes) are also needed to prevent evacuees from returning to their homes during the crisis period.

EXTRACTION OF URANIUM

DOEpatents

Schmieding, E.G.; Ruehle, A.E.

1961-04-11

A method is given for extracting metal values from an aqueous feed wherein the aqueous feed is passed countercurrent to an organic extractant through a plurality of decanting zones and a portion of the mixture contained in each decanting zone is recycled through a mixing zone associated therewith. The improvement consists of passing more solvent from the top of one decanting zone to the bottom of the preceding decanting zone than can rise to the top thereof and recycling that portion of the solvent that does not rise to the top back to the first named decanting zone through its associated mixing zone.

Job related stress among nurses working in Jimma Zone public hospitals, South West Ethiopia: a cross sectional study.

PubMed

Dagget, Tadesse; Molla, Ashagre; Belachew, Tefera

2016-01-01

Occupational stress exists in every profession, nevertheless, the nursing profession appears to experience more stress at work compared to other health care workers. Unmanaged stress leads to high levels of employee dissatisfaction, illness, absenteeism, high turnover, and decreased productivity that compromise provision of quality service to clients. However, there is a scarcity of information about nurses' job stress in Jimma zone public hospital nurses. The aim of the present study was to assess job related stress and its predictors among nurses working in Jimma Zone public hospitals, South-West Ethiopia in 2014. An institution based cross sectional study was conducted from March 10 to April 10, 2014 through a census of nurses who are working in Jimma Zone public hospitals using a structured self-administered questionnaire. SPSS Statistics Version 20 used. For the outcome variable: overall job related stress, the participant's responses on each item score summed: a stress score ranging from a minimum of 26 and maximum score of 116. The higher the sum the more the stressed the nurse. The level of stress calculated through tertial the lower to low stress, the middle to moderate & the higher to high stress. Moreover, bivariate and multivariable linear regressions done to see the association between the predictor (sex, age, mutual understanding at work, Job satisfaction and working unit/department) and the outcome variable (Job related stress). A total of 341 nurses working in Jimma Zone public hospitals were given the questionnaire, and the response rate was 92.3 % (315). This study indicated an average overall job related stress level of 58.46 ± 12.62. The highest level of job related stress was on the sub scale of dealing with death & dying mean score of 62.94 % followed by uncertainty regarding patient treatment 57.72 % and workload 57.6 %. While job related stress from sexual harassment had the lowest mean score of 46.19 %. Overall job related stress varies across working unit. Working in a chronic illness follow up clinic, the mutual understanding at work between nurse & physician and job satisfaction were negatively associated predictors of job related stress.

Heat transfer within a flat micro heat pipe with extra liquid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sprinceana, Silviu; Mihai, Ioan

2016-12-01

In the real functioning of flat micro heat pipe (FMHP), there can appear cases when the temperature from the vaporization zone can exceed a critical value caused by a sudden increase of the thermal flow. The heat transfer which is completed conductively through the copper wall of a FMHP vaporizer causes the vaporization of the work fluid. On the condenser, the condensation of the fluid vapors and the transfer of the condenser to the vaporizer can no longer be achieved. The solution proposed for enhancing heat transfer in the event of blockage phenomenon FMHP, it is the injection of a certain amount of working fluid in the vaporization zone. By this process the working fluid injected into the evaporator passes suddenly in the vapor, producing a cooling zone. The new product additional mass of vapor will leave the vaporization zone and will condense in condensation zone, thereby supplementing the amount of condensation. Thus resumes normal operating cycle of FMHP. For the experimental measurements made for the transfer of heat through the FMHP working fluid demineralized water, they were made two micro-capillary tubes of sintered copper layer. The first was filled with 1ml of demineralized water was dropped under vacuum until the internal pressure has reached a level of 1•104Pa. The second FMHP was filled with the same amount of working fluid was used and the same capillary inner layer over which was laid a polysynthetic material that will accrue an additional amount of fluid. In this case, the internal pressure was reduced to 1•104Pa.

Estimated damage from the Cascadia Subduction Zone tsunami: A model comparisons using fragility curves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wiebe, D. M.; Cox, D. T.; Chen, Y.; Weber, B. A.; Chen, Y.

2012-12-01

Building damage from a hypothetical Cascadia Subduction Zone tsunami was estimated using two methods and applied at the community scale. The first method applies proposed guidelines for a new ASCE 7 standard to calculate the flow depth, flow velocity, and momentum flux from a known runup limit and estimate of the total tsunami energy at the shoreline. This procedure is based on a potential energy budget, uses the energy grade line, and accounts for frictional losses. The second method utilized numerical model results from previous studies to determine maximum flow depth, velocity, and momentum flux throughout the inundation zone. The towns of Seaside and Canon Beach, Oregon, were selected for analysis due to the availability of existing data from previously published works. Fragility curves, based on the hydrodynamic features of the tsunami flow (inundation depth, flow velocity, and momentum flux) and proposed design standards from ASCE 7 were used to estimate the probability of damage to structures located within the inundations zone. The analysis proceeded at the parcel level, using tax-lot data to identify construction type (wood, steel, and reinforced-concrete) and age, which was used as a performance measure when applying the fragility curves and design standards. The overall probability of damage to civil buildings was integrated for comparison between the two methods, and also analyzed spatially for damage patterns, which could be controlled by local bathymetric features. The two methods were compared to assess the sensitivity of the results to the uncertainty in the input hydrodynamic conditions and fragility curves, and the potential advantages of each method discussed. On-going work includes coupling the results of building damage and vulnerability to an economic input output model. This model assesses trade between business sectors located inside and outside the induction zone, and is used to measure the impact to the regional economy. Results highlight critical businesses sectors and infrastructure critical to the economic recovery effort, which could be retrofitted or relocated to survive the event. The results of this study improve community understanding of the tsunami hazard for civil buildings.

77 FR 32394 - Safety Zones: Catawba Island Club Fire Works, Catawba Island Club, Port Clinton, OH; Racing for...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-01

... DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Coast Guard 33 CFR Part 165 [Docket No. USCG-2012-0374] RIN 1625-AA00 Safety Zones: Catawba Island Club Fire Works, Catawba Island Club, Port Clinton, OH; Racing for Recovery, Lake Erie, Sterling State Park, Monroe, MI; Put-in-Bay Fireworks, Fox's the Dock Pier, South Bass...

Analysis of traffic congestion induced by the work zone

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fei, L.; Zhu, H. B.; Han, X. L.

2016-05-01

Based on the cellular automata model, a meticulous two-lane cellular automata model is proposed, in which the driving behavior difference and the difference of vehicles' accelerations between the moving state and the starting state are taken into account. Furthermore the vehicles' motion is refined by using the small cell of one meter long. Then accompanied by coming up with a traffic management measure, a two-lane highway traffic model containing a work zone is presented, in which the road is divided into normal area, merging area and work zone. The vehicles in different areas move forward according to different lane changing rules and position updating rules. After simulation it is found that when the density is small the cluster length in front of the work zone increases with the decrease of the merging probability. Then the suitable merging length and the appropriate speed limit value are recommended. The simulation result in the form of the speed-flow diagram is in good agreement with the empirical data. It indicates that the presented model is efficient and can partially reflect the real traffic. The results may be meaningful for traffic optimization and road construction management.

Assessing the spatial distribution of glyphosate-AMPA in an Argentinian farm field using a pedometric technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barbera, Agustin; Zamora, Martin; Domenech, Marisa; Vega-Becerra, Andres; Castro-Franco, Mauricio

2017-04-01

The cultivation of transgenic glyphosate-resistant crops has been the most rapidly adopted crop technology in Argentina since 1997. Thus, more than 180 million liters of the broad-spectrum herbicide glyphosate (N - phosphonomethylglicine) are applied every year. The intensive use of glyphosate combined with geomorphometrical characteristics of the Pampa region is a matter of environmental concern. An integral component of assessing the risk of soil contamination in farm fields is to describe the spatial distribution of the levels of contaminant agent. Application of pedometric techniques for this purpose has been scarcely demonstrated. These techniques could provide an estimate of the concentration at a given unsampled location, as well as the probability that concentration will exceed the critical threshold concentration. In this work, a pedometric technique for assessing the spatial distribution of glyphosate in farm fields was developed. A field located at INTA Barrow, Argentina (Lat: -38.322844, Lon: -60.25572) which has a great soil spatial variability, was divided by soil-specific zones using a pedometric technique. This was developed integrating INTA Soil Survey information and a digital elevation model (DEM) obtained from a DGPS. Firstly, 10 topographic indices derived from a DEM were computed in a Random Forest algorithm to obtain a classification model for soil map units (SMU). Secondly, a classification model was applied to those topographic indices but at a scale higher than 1:1000. Finally, a spatial principal component analysis and a clustering using Fuzzy K-means were used into each SMU. From this clustering, three soil-specific zones were determined which were also validated through apparent electrical conductivity (CEa) measurements. Three soil sample points were determined by zone. In each one, samples from 0-10, 10-20 and 20-40cm depth were taken. Glyphosate content and AMPA in each soil sample were analyzed using de UPLC-MS/MS ESI (+/-). Only AMPA at 10-20 cm depth had significant difference among soil-specific zones. However, marked trends for glyphosate content and AMPA were clearly shown among zones. These results suggest that (i) the presence of glyphosate and AMPA has spatial patterns distribution related to soil properties at field scale; and (ii) the proposed technique allowed to determine soil-specific zones related to the spatial distribution of glyphosate and AMPA fast, cost-effective and accurately. In further works, we would suggest adding new soil information sources to improve soil-specific zone delimitation.

Combining the pressure effect with local heat treatment for improving the sheet metal forming process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Palumbo, G.; Piccininni, A.; Guglielmi, P.; Sorgente, D.; Tricarico, L.

2016-08-01

The present work deals with the advantages in the Hydromechanical Deep Drawing (HDD) when AA5754 Tailored Heat Treated Blanks (THTBs) are adopted. It is well known that the creation of a suitable distribution of material properties increases the process performance. When non heat-treatable alloys are considered, the THTB approach can be successfully applied to increase the Limit Drawing Ratio (LDR) by changing the peripheral zone into the annealed state starting from a cold-worked blank. If this approach is combined with the advantages of a counterpressure, even more remarkable improvements can be achieved. Due to the large number of involved parameters, the optimized design of both the local treatment and the pressure profile were investigated coupling an axial symmetric Finite Element model with the integration platform modeFRONTIER. Results confirmed the possibility of increasing the LDR from 2.0 (Deep Drawing using a blank in the annealed state) up to about 3.0 if combining the adoption of a THTB with the optimal pressure profile.

Zone heating for fluidized bed silane pyrolysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Iya, Sridhar K. (Inventor)

1987-01-01

An improved heated fluidized bed reactor and method for the production of high purity polycrystalline silicon by silane pyrolysis wherein silicon seed particles are heated in an upper heating zone of the reactor and admixed with particles in a lower reaction zone, in which zone a silane-containing gas stream, having passed through a lower cooled gas distribution zone not conducive to silane pyrolysis, contacts the heated seed particles whereon the silane is heterogeneously reduced to silicon.

33 CFR 320.3 - Related laws.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... operation of the facility. (b) Section 307(c) of the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended (16 U.S..., directly affecting a state's coastal zone, to comply to the maximum extent practicable with an approved state coastal zone management program. Indian tribes doing work on federal lands will be treated as a...

33 CFR 320.3 - Related laws.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... operation of the facility. (b) Section 307(c) of the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended (16 U.S..., directly affecting a state's coastal zone, to comply to the maximum extent practicable with an approved state coastal zone management program. Indian tribes doing work on federal lands will be treated as a...

Working in the Interpretive Zone: Conceptualizing Collaboration in Qualitative Research Teams.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wasser, Judith Davidson; Bresler, Liora

1996-01-01

Formulates the idea of the "interpretive zone" as a way to describe the space in which collaborative interpretation of research unfolds. Because of the importance of teamwork to qualitative research, the interpretive zone becomes a critical location for future methodological inquiry and examination of the dynamics of group research. (SLD)

Professing in the Contact Zone: Bringing Theory and Practice Together.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wolff, Janice M., Ed.

This collection of essays brings together Mary Louise Pratt's original essay, the 10-year-old "Professing in the Contact Zone," with 14 responses that interpret, extend, and challenge Pratt's work. The essays examine how contact zone dynamics play out in various pedagogical spaces. Following an introduction by the editor, essays in…

33 CFR 320.3 - Related laws.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... operation of the facility. (b) Section 307(c) of the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended (16 U.S..., directly affecting a state's coastal zone, to comply to the maximum extent practicable with an approved state coastal zone management program. Indian tribes doing work on federal lands will be treated as a...

Creation of graphic database specifying android arm mechanism work envelope taking into account forbidden zones position

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pritykin, F. N.; Nebritov, V. I.

2017-06-01

The structure of graphic database specifying the shape and the work envelope projection position of an android arm mechanism with various positions of the known in advance forbidden zones is proposed. The technique of analytical assignment of the work envelope based on the methods of analytical geometry and theory of sets is represented. The conducted studies can be applied in creation of knowledge bases for intellectual systems of android control functioning independently in the sophisticated environment.

Stress-strain state of a rock mass in the vicinity of the meeting point of intersecting and branching workings

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

Konstantinova, S.A.; Spirkov, V.L.; Sokolov, V.Yu.

1987-07-01

The results of solving the problems of the stress-strain state of peripheral rock in the vicinity of the meeting point of two workings of intersection and branching type are presented. Values of the load coefficients are obtained, as well as values of the dimensions of the zone of influence of the meeting point and the conventional zone of inelastic deformations. Intersection and branching of workings at various angles are considered.

Effect of Water Cooling on the Performances of Friction Stir Welding Heat-Affected Zone

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, H. J.; Liu, H. J.; Yu, L.

2012-07-01

The heat-affected zone (HAZ) is generally the intrinsic weakest location of the normal friction stir welded precipitate hardened aluminum alloys. In order to improve the mechanical properties of the HAZ by controlling the temperature level, underwater friction stir welding (FSW) of an Al-Cu aluminum alloy was conducted in the present study. The results indicate that the hardness of the HAZ can be improved through underwater FSW. Microstructural analysis reveals that the hardness improvement is attributed to the lowering of precipitate coarsening level and the narrowing of precipitate free zone, which are essentially induced by the variations of welding thermal cycles under the cooling effect of water.

Driver speed limit compliance in school zones : assessing the impact of sign saturation.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-10-01

School zones are often viewed as an effective way to reduce driving speeds and thereby improve : safety near our nations schools. The effect of school zones on reducing driving speeds, however, is : minimal at best. Studies have shown that over 90...

The Current Status and Factors Associated With Implanon Service Provision by the Health Extension Workers at the Health Post Level, Wolaita Zone, Southern Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study

PubMed Central

Desalegn, Ketsela; Loha, Eskindir; Meskele, Mengistu

2017-01-01

Objective: Family Planning is often taken as one of the “Magic Bullet” interventions owing to its high impact and wide reaching nature in achieving multiple goals. This study aimed to assess the current status and the factors associated with health post level Implanon service provision through trained health extension workers in Wolaita zone, southern Ethiopia. Materials and methods: A cross sectional study was conducted among trained health extension workers in Wolaita zone in February 2013. A simple random sampling technique was used to identify a total of 285 trained HEWs. First bivariate, then multivariate logistic regression model along with 95% confidence interval was used to see the independent effect of factors associated with current Implanon service provision by the health extension workers. Results: Currently, the number of Implaon providing trained health extension workers in Wolaita was 264(45.8%). Distance of health post from district health offices and health center, turnover of trained health extension workers in the health post, interest of trained health extension workers in providing Implanon and their job satisfaction to serve as a health extension workers and availability of service delivery guidelines and teaching aids were associated with the current provision of Implanon by health extension workers. Conclusion: Implanon provision among trained health extension workers was affected by different factors. Hence, improving the working conditions of trained health extension workers, regular and periodic facilitative supervision, availing service delivery guidelines and improvement of health management information system are recommended. PMID:29114263

How well the Reliable Ensemble Averaging Method (REA) for 15 CMIP5 GCMs simulations works for Mexico?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Colorado, G.; Salinas, J. A.; Cavazos, T.; de Grau, P.

2013-05-01

15 CMIP5 GCMs precipitation simulations were combined in a weighted ensemble using the Reliable Ensemble Averaging (REA) method, obtaining the weight of each model. This was done for a historical period (1961-2000) and for the future emissions based on low (RCP4.5) and high (RCP8.5) radiating forcing for the period 2075-2099. The annual cycle of simple ensemble of the historical GCMs simulations, the historical REA average and the Climate Research Unit (CRU TS3.1) database was compared in four zones of México. In the case of precipitation we can see the improvements by using the REA method, especially in the two northern zones of México where the REA average is more close to the observations (CRU) that the simple average. However in the southern zones although there is an improvement it is not as good as it is in the north, particularly in the southeast where instead of the REA average is able to reproduce qualitatively good the annual cycle with the mid-summer drought it was greatly underestimated. The main reason is because the precipitation is underestimated for all the models and the mid-summer drought do not even exists in some models. In the REA average of the future scenarios, as we can expected, the most drastic decrease in precipitation was simulated using the RCP8.5 especially in the monsoon area and in the south of Mexico in summer and in winter. In the center and southern of Mexico however, the same scenario in autumn simulates an increase of precipitation.

Ductility dip cracking susceptibility of Inconel Filler Metal 52 and Inconel Alloy 690

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

Kikel, J.M.; Parker, D.M.

1998-06-01

Alloy 690 and Filler Metal 52 have become the materials of choice for commercial nuclear steam generator applications in recent years. Filler Metal 52 exhibits improved resistance to weld solidification and weld-metal liquation cracking as compared to other nickel-based filler metals. However, recently published work indicates that Filler Metal 52 is susceptible to ductility dip cracking (DDC) in highly restrained applications. Susceptibility to fusion zone DDC was evaluated using the transverse varestraint test method, while heat affected zone (HAZ) DDC susceptibility was evaluated using a newly developed spot-on-spot varestraint test method. Alloy 690 and Filler Metal 52 cracking susceptibility wasmore » compared to the DDC susceptibility of Alloy 600, Filler Metal 52, and Filler Metal 625. In addition, the effect of grain size and orientation on cracking susceptibility was also included in this study. Alloy 690, Filler Metal 82, Filler Metal 52, and Filler Metal 625 were found more susceptible to fusion zone DDC than Alloy 600. Filler Metal 52 and Alloy 690 were found more susceptible to HAZ DDC when compared to wrought Alloy 600, Filler Metal 82 and Filler Metal 625. Filler Metal 52 exhibited the greatest susceptibility to HAZ DDC of all the weld metals evaluated. The base materials were found much more resistant to HAZ DDC in the wrought condition than when autogenously welded. A smaller grain size was found to offer greater resistance to DDC. For weld metal where grain size is difficult to control, a change in grain orientation was found to improve resistance to DDC.« less

Experimental residual stress evaluation of hydraulic expansion transitions in Alloy 690 steam generator tubing

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

McGregor, R.; Doherty, P.; Hornbach, D.

1995-12-31

Nuclear Steam Generator (SG) service reliability and longevity have been seriously affected worldwide by corrosion at the tube-to-tubesheet joint expansion. Current SG designs for new facilities and replacement projects enhance corrosion resistance through the use of advanced tubing materials and improved joint design and fabrication techniques. Here, transition zones of hydraulic expansions have undergone detailed experimental evaluation to define residual stress and cold-work distribution on and below the secondary-side surface. Using X-ray diffraction techniques, with supporting finite element analysis, variations are compared in tubing metallurgical condition, tube/pitch geometry, expansion pressure, and tube-to-hole clearance. Initial measurements to characterize the unexpanded tubemore » reveal compressive stresses associated with a thin work-hardened layer on the outer surface of the tube. The gradient of cold-work was measured as 3% to 0% within .001 inch of the surface. The levels and character of residual stresses following hydraulic expansion are primarily dependent on this work-hardened surface layer and initial stress state that is unique to each tube fabrication process. Tensile stresses following expansion are less than 25% of the local yield stress and are found on the transition in a narrow circumferential band at the immediate tube surface (< .0002 inch/0.005 mm depth). The measurements otherwise indicate a predominance of compressive stresses on and below the secondary-side surface of the transition zone. Excellent resistance to SWSCC initiation is offered by the low levels of tensile stress and cold-work. Propagation of any possible cracking would be deterred by the compressive stress field that surrounds this small volume of tensile material.« less

Microstructural Evolution during Mid-Crustal Shear Zone Thickening and Thinning, Mount Irene Detachment Zone, Fiordland, New Zealand

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Negrini, M.; Smith, S. A. F.; Scott, J.; Rooney, J. S.; Demurtas, M.

2016-12-01

Recent work has shown that ductile shear zones experience cyclic variations in stress and strain rate due to, for example, elastic loading from earthquake slip on brittle faults or the presence of rigid particles and asperities within the shear zone. Such non-steady state flow conditions can promote microstructural changes including a decrease in grain sizes followed by a switch in the main deformation mechanisms. Understanding the microstructural changes that occur during non steady-state deformation is therefore critical in evaluating shear zone rheology. The Mount Irene shear zone formed during Cretaceous extension in the middle crust and was active at temperatures of 600°C and pressures of 6 kbar. The shear zone localized in a basal calcite marble layer typically 3-5 m thick containing hundreds of thin (mm-cm) calc-silicate bands that are now parallel to the shear zone boundaries. The lower boundary of the shear zone preserves meter-scale undulations that cause the shear zone to be squeezed in to regions that are <1.5 m thick. The calc-silicate bands act as "flow markers" and allow individual shear zone layers to be traced continuously through thick and thin regions, implying that the mylonites experienced cyclic variations in stress and strain rate. Calc-mylonite samples collected from the same layer close to the base of the shear zone reveal that layer thinning was accompanied by progressive microstructural changes including intense twinning, stretching and flattening of large calcite porphyroclasts as well as the development of interconnected networks of recrystallized calcite aggregates. EBSD analysis shows that the recrystallized aggregates contain polygonal calcite grains with microstructures (e.g. grain quadruple junctions) similar to those reported for neighbor-switching processes associated with grain boundary sliding and superplasticity. Ongoing and future work will utilize samples from across the full thickness of the shear zone to determine key microstructural changes and deformation mechanisms that accommodated shear zone thinning and thickening during non-steady state deformation.

Increased lead absorption caused by working next to a lead recycling factory.

PubMed

Chao, K Y; Wang, J D

1994-08-01

The objective of this study was to determine whether workers at a factory in Taiwan, adjacent to lead recycling plant, were affected by lead contamination. Workers at the lead recycling plant itself were found to suffer from lead poisoning; air and soil outside the plant were heavily contaminated by lead. Forty-one of the 45 workers in a forging factory next to the lead recycling plant were enrolled as the exposed group. A comparison group of 51 workers were selected from another forging factory about 20 km away. Each subject was interviewed about his lifestyle, work history, and residence, and blood was drawn for lead measurement by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry. The results showed that two groups were compatible in age, sex, and smoking patterns. Blood lead of the exposed group was significantly higher than that of the comparison group (mean +/- SD: 20.4 +/- 9.4 micrograms/dl vs. 5.9 +/- 2.9 micrograms/dl). The difference was independent of sex and working zones. Blood lead levels were lower among exposed workers who had been employed less than 2 months compared with those employed longer. There was no difference among exposed workers in different outdoor working zones. Five months after improvement of pollution control and decrease in the production volume of the lead factory, 30 exposed workers were retested for blood lead. The blood lead of outdoor workers had an average decrease of 4.2 micrograms/dl while that of indoor workers showed no significant difference.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Zoning of an agricultural field using a fuzzy indicator model in combination with tool for multi-attributed decision-making

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Zoning of agricultural fields is an important task for utilization of precision farming technology. This paper extends previously published work entitled “Zoning of an agricultural field using a fuzzy indicator model” to a general case where there is disagreement between groups of managers or expert...

Buying Power: The Role of the Private Sector in Education Action Zones.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hallgarten, Joe; Watling, Rob

2001-01-01

Examines the private sector's financial and philosophical contributions to the New Labour Party's Education Action Zone policy, based on interview data from 34 EAZ directors. Far from representing a flagship, "third-way" reform, the average zone resembles a traditional school-improvement service combined with an education-business…

Detection of Repeating Earthquakes within the Cascadia Subduction Zone Using 2013-2014 Cascadia Initiative Amphibious Network Data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kenefic, L.; Morton, E.; Bilek, S.

2017-12-01

It is well known that subduction zones create the largest earthquakes in the world, like the magnitude 9.5 Chile earthquake in 1960, or the more recent 9.1 magnitude Japan earthquake in 2011, both of which are in the top five largest earthquakes ever recorded. However, off the coast of the Pacific Northwest region of the U.S., the Cascadia subduction zone (CSZ) remains relatively quiet and modern seismic instruments have not recorded earthquakes of this size in the CSZ. The last great earthquake, a magnitude 8.7-9.2, occurred in 1700 and is constrained by written reports of the resultant tsunami in Japan and dating a drowned forest in the U.S. Previous studies have suggested the margin is most likely segmented along-strike. However, variations in frictional conditions in the CSZ fault zone are not well known. Geodetic modeling indicates that the locked seismogenic zone is likely completely offshore, which may be too far from land seismometers to adequately detect related seismicity. Ocean bottom seismometers, as part of the Cascadia Initiative Amphibious Network, were installed directly above the inferred seismogenic zone, which we use to better detect small interplate seismicity. Using the subspace detection method, this study looks to find new seismogenic zone earthquakes. This subspace detection method uses multiple previously known event templates concurrently to scan through continuous seismic data. Template events that make up the subspace are chosen from events in existing catalogs that likely occurred along the plate interface. Corresponding waveforms are windowed on the nearby Cascadia Initiative ocean bottom seismometers and coastal land seismometers for scanning. Detections that are found by the scan are similar to the template waveforms based upon a predefined threshold. Detections are then visually examined to determine if an event is present. The presence of repeating event clusters can indicate persistent seismic patches, likely corresponding to areas of stronger coupling. This work will ultimately improve the understanding of CSZ fault zone heterogeneity. Preliminary results gathered indicate 96 possible new events between August 2, 2013 and July 1, 2014 for four target clusters off the coast of northern Oregon.

[Training of medical practitioners of Russian Federation for dealing with dangerous infections in Stavropol Institute for plague control and for working under the conditions of the emergency situation].

PubMed

Efremenko, V I; Kal'noĭ, S M; Shvetsova, N M; Bogdanov, I K; Grizhebovskiĭ, G M; Briukhanova, G D; Onatskaia, T G

2001-01-01

There are no doubts at present concerning the necessity of training medical practitioners in Russia for dealing with specially dangerous infections and for work under the conditions of emergency situations. From the day this institute was founded the training of the corresponding personnel was started: first physicians, then biologists and other specialists, including medical assistants and technicians. Additional programs for training specialists were developed, the State License for conducting the course of special post-diploma training was obtained. Research works on improving the methods of the indication and rapid diagnostics of the causative agents of dangerous infections, reflected in training programs for specialists and practically used in the process of the realization of antiepidemic measures in the zones of emergency situations, were carried out. In training the students the experience of the work of the institute on ensuring the epidemiological safety of the population under the conditions of different emergency situations was taken into consideration.

Perceived Nurse-Physician Communication in Patient Care and Associated Factors in Public Hospitals of Jimma Zone, South West Ethiopia: Cross Sectional Study.

PubMed

Hailu, Fikadu Balcha; Kassahun, Chanyalew Worku; Kerie, Mirkuzie Woldie

2016-01-01

Nurse-physician communication has been shown to have a significant impact on the job satisfaction and retention of staff. In areas where it has been studied, communication failure between nurses and physicians was found to be one of the leading causes of preventable patient injuries, complications, death and medical malpractice claims. The objective of this study is to determine perception of nurses and physicians towards nurse-physician communication in patient care and associated factors in public hospitals of Jimma zone, southwest Ethiopia. Institution based cross-sectional survey was conducted from March 10 to April 16, 2014 among 341 nurses and 168 physicians working in public hospitals in Jimma zone. Data was collected using a pre-tested self-administered questionnaire; entered into EpiData version 3.1 and exported to Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 16.0 for analysis. Factor analysis was carried out. Descriptive statistics, independent sample t-test, linear regression and one way analysis of variance were used. Variables with P-value < 0.05 were considered as statistically significant. The response rate of the study was 91.55%. The mean perceived nurse-physician communication scores were 50.88±19.7% for perceived professional respect and satisfaction, and 48.52±19.7% for perceived openness and sharing of patient information on nurse-physician communication. Age, salary and organizational factors were statistically significant predictors for perceived respect and satisfaction. Whereas sex, working hospital, work attitude individual factors and organizational factors were significant predictors of perceived openness and sharing of patient information in nurse-physician communication during patient care. Perceived level of nurse-physician communication mean score was low among nurses than physicians and it is attention seeking gap. Hence, the finding of our study suggests the need for developing and implementing nurse-physician communication improvement strategies to solve communication mishaps in patient care.

Perceived Nurse—Physician Communication in Patient Care and Associated Factors in Public Hospitals of Jimma Zone, South West Ethiopia: Cross Sectional Study

PubMed Central

Hailu, Fikadu Balcha; Kassahun, Chanyalew Worku; Kerie, Mirkuzie Woldie

2016-01-01

Background Nurse–physician communication has been shown to have a significant impact on the job satisfaction and retention of staff. In areas where it has been studied, communication failure between nurses and physicians was found to be one of the leading causes of preventable patient injuries, complications, death and medical malpractice claims. Objective The objective of this study is to determine perception of nurses and physicians towards nurse-physician communication in patient care and associated factors in public hospitals of Jimma zone, southwest Ethiopia. Methods Institution based cross-sectional survey was conducted from March 10 to April 16, 2014 among 341 nurses and 168 physicians working in public hospitals in Jimma zone. Data was collected using a pre-tested self-administered questionnaire; entered into EpiData version 3.1 and exported to Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 16.0 for analysis. Factor analysis was carried out. Descriptive statistics, independent sample t-test, linear regression and one way analysis of variance were used. Variables with P-value < 0.05 were considered as statistically significant. Results The response rate of the study was 91.55%. The mean perceived nurse-physician communication scores were 50.88±19.7% for perceived professional respect and satisfaction, and 48.52±19.7% for perceived openness and sharing of patient information on nurse-physician communication. Age, salary and organizational factors were statistically significant predictors for perceived respect and satisfaction. Whereas sex, working hospital, work attitude individual factors and organizational factors were significant predictors of perceived openness and sharing of patient information in nurse-physician communication during patient care. Conclusion Perceived level of nurse-physician communication mean score was low among nurses than physicians and it is attention seeking gap. Hence, the finding of our study suggests the need for developing and implementing nurse-physician communication improvement strategies to solve communication mishaps in patient care. PMID:27632162

Microwave thermal ablation: Effects of tissue properties variations on predictive models for treatment planning.

PubMed

Lopresto, Vanni; Pinto, Rosanna; Farina, Laura; Cavagnaro, Marta

2017-08-01

Microwave thermal ablation (MTA) therapy for cancer treatments relies on the absorption of electromagnetic energy at microwave frequencies to induce a very high and localized temperature increase, which causes an irreversible thermal damage in the target zone. Treatment planning in MTA is based on experimental observations of ablation zones in ex vivo tissue, while predicting the treatment outcomes could be greatly improved by reliable numerical models. In this work, a fully dynamical simulation model is exploited to look at effects of temperature-dependent variations in the dielectric and thermal properties of the targeted tissue on the prediction of the temperature increase and the extension of the thermally coagulated zone. In particular, the influence of measurement uncertainty of tissue parameters on the numerical results is investigated. Numerical data were compared with data from MTA experiments performed on ex vivo bovine liver tissue at 2.45GHz, with a power of 60W applied for 10min. By including in the simulation model an uncertainty budget (CI=95%) of ±25% in the properties of the tissue due to inaccuracy of measurements, numerical results were achieved in the range of experimental data. Obtained results also showed that the specific heat especially influences the extension of the thermally coagulated zone, with an increase of 27% in length and 7% in diameter when a variation of -25% is considered with respect to the value of the reference simulation model. Copyright © 2017 IPEM. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Report of the Plasma Physics and Environmental Perturbation Laboratory (PPEPL) working groups. Volume 1: Plasma probes, wakes, and sheaths working group

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1974-01-01

It is shown in this report that comprehensive in-situ study of all aspects of the entire zone disturbance caused by a body in a flowing plasma resulted in a large number if requirements on the shuttle-PPEPL facility. A large amount of necessary in-situ observation can be obtained by adopting appropriate modes of performing the experiments. Requirements are indicated for worthwhile studies, of some aspects of the problems, which can be carried out effectively while imposing relatively few constraints on the early missions. Considerations for the desired growth and improvement of the PPEPL to facilitate more complete studies in later missions are also discussed. For Vol. 2, see N74-28170; for Vol# 3, see N74-28171.

Investigation of accidents within construction zones in Louisiana.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1981-07-01

This investigation is to analyze construction and maintenance work zone accidents by reviewing accident data to determine if deficiencies exist and recommend possible corrective measures for future traffic control applications. To accomplish this, a ...

Determining Source Attenuation History to Support Closure by Natural Attenuation

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-09-01

SUBTITLE 5a. CONTRACT NUMBER 5b. GRANT NUMBER 5c. PROGRAM ELEMENT NUMBER 5d. PROJECT NUMBER 5e. TASK NUMBER 5f. WORK UNIT NUMBER 6. AUTHOR(S...Tortuosity Factor Exponent Bulk Density of Low-k Zone DistriDutlon Coemctent or FractiOn Organic Carbon In Low-k Zone o rgaric CarDon Pa-tnioning...Organic Carbon In Low-k Zone orgaric CarDon Pa-tnioning coemctent Constrtuent Half-Life in Low-k Zone 3. GEN ERA L Year Core sample Collected fran

Effects of work zone configurations and traffic density on performance variables and subjective workload.

PubMed

Shakouri, Mahmoud; Ikuma, Laura H; Aghazadeh, Fereydoun; Punniaraj, Karthy; Ishak, Sherif

2014-10-01

This paper investigates the effect of changing work zone configurations and traffic density on performance variables and subjective workload. Data regarding travel time, average speed, maximum percent braking force and location of lane changes were collected by using a full size driving simulator. The NASA-TLX was used to measure self-reported workload ratings during the driving task. Conventional lane merge (CLM) and joint lane merge (JLM) were modeled in a driving simulator, and thirty participants (seven female and 23 male), navigated through the two configurations with two levels of traffic density. The mean maximum braking forces was 34% lower in the JLM configuration, and drivers going through the JLM configuration remained in the closed lane longer. However, no significant differences in speed were found between the two merge configurations. The analysis of self-reported workload ratings show that participants reported 15.3% lower total workload when driving through the JLM. In conclusion, the implemented changes in the JLM make it a more favorable merge configuration in both high and low traffic densities in terms of optimizing traffic flow by increasing the time and distance cars use both lanes, and in terms of improving safety due to lower braking forces and lower reported workload. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A study of the dynamics of seizure propagation across micro domains in the vicinity of the seizure onset zone

PubMed Central

Basu, Ishita; Kudela, Pawel; Korzeniewska, Anna; Franaszczuk, Piotr J.; Anderson, William S.

2015-01-01

Objective The use of micro-electrode arrays to measure electrical activity from the surface of the brain is increasingly being investigated as a means to improve seizure onset zone localization. In this work, we used a multivariate autoregressive model to determine the evolution of seizure dynamics in the 70 – 110 Hz high frequency band across micro-domains sampled by such micro-electrode arrays. Approach We used 7 complex partial seizures recorded from 4 patients undergoing intracranial monitoring for surgical evaluation to reconstruct the seizure propagation pattern over sliding windows using a directed transfer function measure. Main results We showed that a directed transfer function can be used to estimate the flow of seizure activity in a set of simulated micro-electrode data with known propagation pattern. In general, depending on the location of the micro-electrode grid with respect to the clinical seizure onset zone and the time from seizure onset, ictal propagation changed in directional characteristics over a 2 to 10 seconds time scale, with gross directionality limited to spatial dimensions of approximately 9mm2. It was also seen that the strongest seizure patterns in the high frequency band and their sources over such micro-domains are more stable over time and across seizures bordering the clinically determined seizure onset zone than inside. Significance This type of propagation analysis might in future provide an additional tool to epileptologists for characterizing epileptogenic tissue. This will potentially help narrowing down resection zones without compromising essential brain functions as well as provide important information about targeting anti-epileptic stimulation devices. PMID:26061006

78 FR 11099 - Safety Zone Within the Lower Portion of Anchorage #9, Mantua Creek Anchorage; Paulsboro, NJ

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-02-15

... 1625-AA00 Safety Zone Within the Lower Portion of Anchorage 9, Mantua Creek Anchorage; Paulsboro, NJ... temporary safety zone around the southern one-third of Anchorage 9 (Mantua Creek Anchorage), below position 39[deg] 51.573 N-075[deg] 13.557 W due to dredging operations. The Dredge Florida will be working...

An assessment of schoolyard features and behavior patterns in children's utilization and physical activity.

PubMed

Anthamatten, Peter; Brink, Lois; Kingston, Beverly; Kutchman, Eve; Lampe, Sarah; Nigg, Claudio

2014-03-01

Careful research that elucidates how behavior relates to design in the context of elementary school grounds can serve to guide cost-efficient design with the goal of encouraging physical activity (PA). This work explores patterns in children's PA behavior within playground spaces with the specific goal of guiding healthy playground design. Data on children's utilization and PA behavior in 6 playgrounds divided into 106 observation zones were collected in 2005 and 2006 at Denver elementary school playgrounds using the System for Observing Play and Leisure Activity in Youth. Analyses of variance and t tests determined whether there were differences in utilization and behavior patterns across observations zones and between genders. This study provides evidence that children prefer to use certain types of playground zones and that they are more likely to practice moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in some zones. The authors observed statistically significant differences between genders. Boys were more likely to engage in MVPA in zones without equipment, girls were more likely to use zones with equipment. This work suggests that the inclusion or omission of specific playground features may have an impact on the way that children use the spaces.

Metals purification by improved vacuum arc remelting

DOEpatents

Zanner, Frank J.; Williamson, Rodney L.; Smith, Mark F.

1994-12-13

The invention relates to improved apparatuses and methods for remelting metal alloys in furnaces, particularly consumable electrode vacuum arc furnaces. Excited reactive gas is injected into a stationary furnace arc zone, thus accelerating the reduction reactions which purify the metal being melted. Additionally, a cooled condensation surface is disposed within the furnace to reduce the partial pressure of water in the furnace, which also fosters the reduction reactions which result in a purer produced ingot. Methods and means are provided for maintaining the stationary arc zone, thereby reducing the opportunity for contaminants evaporated from the arc zone to be reintroduced into the produced ingot.

Investigation on microstructure and mechanical properties on pulsed current gas tungsten arc welded super alloy 617

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mageshkumar, K.; Kuppan, P.; Arivazhagan, N.

2017-11-01

The present research work investigates the metallurgical and mechanical properties of weld joint fabricated by alloy 617 by pulsed current gas tungsten arc welding (PCGTAW) technique. Welding was done by ERNiCrCoMo-1 filler wire. Optical and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) revealed the fine equiaxed dendritic in the fusion zone. Electron Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) demonstrates the presence of Mo-rich secondary phases in the grain boundary regions. Tensile test shows improved mechanical properties compared to the continuous current mode. Bend test didn’t indicate the presence of defects in the weldments.

Proposed seed collection zones for the central states

Treesearch

Gustaf A. Limstrom

1963-01-01

Seed collection zones have been established in several regions and countries to insure that the sources of seed used in tree planting are properly selected. Use of such zones has undoubtedly improved the survival and growth of trees in plantations and has also facilitated the establishment of specifications for seed procurement and seed certification.

Characterization of microstructure, local deformation and microchemistry in Alloy 690 heat-affected zone and stress corrosion cracking in high temperature water

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lu, Zhanpeng; Chen, Junjie; Shoji, Tetsuo; Takeda, Yoichi; Yamazaki, Seiya

2015-10-01

With increasing the distance from the weld fusion line in an Alloy 690 heat-affected zone, micro-hardness decreases, kernel average misorientation decreases and the fraction of Σ3 boundaries increases. Chromium depletion at grain boundaries in the Alloy 690 heat-affected zone is less significant than that in an Alloy 600 heat-affected zone. Alloy 690 heat-affected zone exhibits much higher IGSCC resistance than Alloy 600 heat-affected zone in simulated pressurized water reactor primary water. Heavily cold worked Alloy 690 exhibits localized intergranular stress corrosion cracking. The effects of metallurgical and mechanical properties on stress corrosion cracking in Alloy 690 are discussed.

Zonal disintegration of rocks around underground workings. Part II. Rock fracture simulated in equivalent materials

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

Shemyakin, E.I.; Fisenko, G.L.; Kurlenya, M.V.

1987-05-01

For a detailed testing of the effects discovered in situ, analysis of the patterns and origination conditions of fractured rock zones inside the bed around workings, and ways explosions affect the surrounding rocks, a program and a method of study on models of equivalent materials have been developed. The method of simulation on two- and three-dimensional models involved building in a solid or fissured medium a tunnel of a circular or arched cross section. The tests were done for elongate adit-type workings. At the first stage, three models were tested with different working support systems: anchor supports, concrete-spray supports andmore » no supports. Zone formation is shown and described. Tests were continued on two groups of three-dimensional models to bring the model closer to in situ conditions. The presence of gaping cracks and heavily fractured zones deep in the interior of the bed with a quasicylindrical symmetry indicates that the common views concerning the stressed-strained state of rocks around underground workings are at variance with the actual patterns of deformation and destruction of rocks near the workings in deep horizons.« less

Assessing the applicability of template-based protein docking in the twilight zone.

PubMed

Negroni, Jacopo; Mosca, Roberto; Aloy, Patrick

2014-09-02

The structural modeling of protein interactions in the absence of close homologous templates is a challenging task. Recently, template-based docking methods have emerged to exploit local structural similarities to help ab-initio protocols provide reliable 3D models for protein interactions. In this work, we critically assess the performance of template-based docking in the twilight zone. Our results show that, while it is possible to find templates for nearly all known interactions, the quality of the obtained models is rather limited. We can increase the precision of the models at expenses of coverage, but it drastically reduces the potential applicability of the method, as illustrated by the whole-interactome modeling of nine organisms. Template-based docking is likely to play an important role in the structural characterization of the interaction space, but we still need to improve the repertoire of structural templates onto which we can reliably model protein complexes. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Process for liquefying carbonaceous materials of high molecular weight and for separating liquefaction products

DOEpatents

Malek, John M.

1977-01-01

Process characterized by comprising successively a dissolution zone fed with carbonaceous solids and with a solvent, a high pressure hydrogenation zone provided with a source of hydrogen, and a hydrogenation products separation zone, wherein the improvement consists mainly in chemical upgrading of the liquidform products derived from the separation zone, and recycling a part of the upgraded products to the dissolution zone, this recycled part being of either positively acidic or positively basic properties for enhancing the dissolution - decomposition of base-acid structures present in the carbonaceous solid feed.

Reactor for fluidized bed silane decomposition

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Iya, Sridhar K. (Inventor)

1989-01-01

An improved heated fluidized bed reactor and method for the production of high purity polycrystalline silicon by silane pyrolysis wherein silicon seed particles are heated in an upper heating zone of the reactor and admixed with particles in a lower zone, in which zone a silane-containing gas stream, having passed through a lower cooled gas distribution zone not conducive to silane pyrolysis, contacts the heated seed particles whereon the silane is heterogeneously reduced to silicon.

A Variable-resolution Surface Wave Dispersion Study of Eurasia, North Africa, and Surrounding Regions

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

Pasyanos, M E

This paper presents the results of a large-scale study of surface wave dispersion performed across Eurasia and North Africa. Improvements were made to previous surface wave work by enlarging the study region, increasing path density, improving spatial resolution, and expanding the period range. This study expands the coverage area northwards and eastwards relative to a previous dispersion analysis, which covered only North Africa and the Middle East. We have significantly increased the number of seismograms examined and group velocity measurements made. We have now made good quality dispersion measurements for about 30,000 Rayleigh wave and 20,000 Love wave paths, andmore » have incorporated measurements from several other researchers into the study. A conjugate gradient method was employed for the group velocity tomography, which improved the inversion from the previous study by adopting a variable smoothness. This technique allows us to go to higher resolution where the data allow without producing artifacts. The current results include both Love and Rayleigh wave inversions across the region for periods from 7 to 100 seconds at 1{sup o} resolution. Short period group velocities are sensitive to slow velocities associated with large sedimentary features such as the Caspian Sea, West Siberian Platform, Mediterranean Sea, Bay of Bengal, Tarim Basin, and Persian Gulf. Intermediate periods are sensitive to differences in crustal thickness, such as those between oceanic and continental crust or along orogenic zones and continental plateaus. At longer periods, fast velocities are consistently found beneath cratons while slow upper mantle velocities occur along rift systems, subduction zones, and collision zones such as the Tethys Belt. We have compared the group velocities at various periods with features such as sediment thickness, topographic height, crustal thickness, proximity to plate boundaries, lithospheric age and lithospheric thickness, and find significant correlations. We don't find any similar correlation between the longest period surface waves and hot spots.« less

Determining queue and congestion in highway work zone bottlenecks.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-03-11

Construction zones, though required for infrastructure maintenance, have become congestion choke points on most highway systems in the US. The congestion may create potentially unsafe driving conditions for approaching motorists that do not expect qu...

Determining Queue and Congestion in Highway Work Zone Bottlenecks

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-03-11

Construction zones, though required for infrastructure maintenance, have become congestion choke points on most highway systems in the US. The congestion may create potentially unsafe driving conditions for approaching motorists that do not expect qu...

Grain Boundary Plane Orientation Fundamental Zones and Structure-Property Relationships

PubMed Central

Homer, Eric R.; Patala, Srikanth; Priedeman, Jonathan L.

2015-01-01

Grain boundary plane orientation is a profoundly important determinant of character in polycrystalline materials that is not well understood. This work demonstrates how boundary plane orientation fundamental zones, which capture the natural crystallographic symmetries of a grain boundary, can be used to establish structure-property relationships. Using the fundamental zone representation, trends in computed energy, excess volume at the grain boundary, and temperature-dependent mobility naturally emerge and show a strong dependence on the boundary plane orientation. Analysis of common misorientation axes even suggests broader trends of grain boundary energy as a function of misorientation angle and plane orientation. Due to the strong structure-property relationships that naturally emerge from this work, boundary plane fundamental zones are expected to simplify analysis of both computational and experimental data. This standardized representation has the potential to significantly accelerate research in the topologically complex and vast five-dimensional phase space of grain boundaries. PMID:26498715

Grain boundary plane orientation fundamental zones and structure-property relationships

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

Homer, Eric R.; Patala, Srikanth; Priedeman, Jonathan L.

2015-10-26

Grain boundary plane orientation is a profoundly important determinant of character in polycrystalline materials that is not well understood. This work demonstrates how boundary plane orientation fundamental zones, which capture the natural crystallographic symmetries of a grain boundary, can be used to establish structure-property relationships. Using the fundamental zone representation, trends in computed energy, excess volume at the grain boundary, and temperature-dependent mobility naturally emerge and show a strong dependence on the boundary plane orientation. Analysis of common misorientation axes even suggests broader trends of grain boundary energy as a function of misorientation angle and plane orientation. Due to themore » strong structure-property relationships that naturally emerge from this work, boundary plane fundamental zones are expected to simplify analysis of both computational and experimental data. This standardized representation has the potential to significantly accelerate research in the topologically complex and vast five-dimensional phase space of grain boundaries.« less

Complex zoning behavior in pyroxene in FeO-rich chondrules in the Semarkona ordinary chondrite

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jones, Rhian H.; Papike, J. J.

1993-01-01

A detailed understanding of the properties of silicate minerals in chondrules is essential to the interpretation of chondrule formation conditions. This study is further work in a series of petrologic studies of chondrules in the least equilibrated LL chondrite, Semarkona (LL3.0). The objectives of this work are as follows: (1) to understand chondrule formation conditions and nebular processes; and (2) to use the data as a basis for understanding the effects of metamorphism in more equilibrated chondrites. FeO-rich pyroxene in the chondrules described shows complex zoning behavior. Low-Ca clinopyroxene, orthopyroxene, pigeonite, and augite are all observed, in various associations with one another. Coexisting olivine phenocrysts are also FeO-rich and strongly zoned. Compositional and zoning properties are similar to those observed in boninites and are interpreted as resulting from rapid cooling of individual chondrules.

The Impact of Operating Room Layout on Circulating Nurse's Work Patterns and Flow Disruptions: A Behavioral Mapping Study.

PubMed

Bayramzadeh, Sara; Joseph, Anjali; San, Dee; Khoshkenar, Amin; Taaffe, Kevin; Jafarifiroozabadi, Roxana; Neyens, David M

2018-01-01

To assess how the adjacencies of functionally different areas within operating rooms (ORs) can influence the circulating nurse's (CN) workflow patterns and disruptions. The CN plays a significant role in promoting patient safety during surgical procedures by observing, monitoring, and managing potential threats at and around the surgical field. Their work requires constant movement to different parts of the OR to support team members. The layout of the OR and crowded and cluttered environment might impact the CN's workflow and cause disruptions during the surgery. A convenience sample of 25 surgeries were video recorded and thematically coded for CN's activities, locations, and flow disruptions. The OR layout was categorized into transitional zones and functional zones (workstations, supply zones, support zones, and sterile areas around the surgical table). CN's activities were classified into patient-, equipment-, material-, and information-related activities. Flow disruptions included those related to environmental hazards and layout. The CN traveled through multiple zones during 91% of the activities. The CN's workstation acted as a main hub from which the CN made frequent trips to both sides of the surgical table, the foot of the OR table, supply zones, and support zones. Transitional zones accounted for 58.3% of all flow disruption that the CN was involved in whereas 28% occurred in areas surrounding the OR bed. The similarity of the movement and flow disruption patterns, despite variations in OR layout, highlighted the adjacencies required between major zones that CNs regularly visit. These optimum adjacencies should be considered while designing ORs such that they are more efficient and safer.

A new predictive multi-zone model for HCCI engine combustion

DOE PAGES

Bissoli, Mattia; Frassoldati, Alessio; Cuoci, Alberto; ...

2016-06-30

Here, this work introduces a new predictive multi-zone model for the description of combustion in Homogeneous Charge Compression Ignition (HCCI) engines. The model exploits the existing OpenSMOKE++ computational suite to handle detailed kinetic mechanisms, providing reliable predictions of the in-cylinder auto-ignition processes. All the elements with a significant impact on the combustion performances and emissions, like turbulence, heat and mass exchanges, crevices, residual burned gases, thermal and feed stratification are taken into account. Compared to other computational approaches, this model improves the description of mixture stratification phenomena by coupling a wall heat transfer model derived from CFD application with amore » proper turbulence model. Furthermore, the calibration of this multi-zone model requires only three parameters, which can be derived from a non-reactive CFD simulation: these adaptive variables depend only on the engine geometry and remain fixed across a wide range of operating conditions, allowing the prediction of auto-ignition, pressure traces and pollutants. This computational framework enables the use of detail kinetic mechanisms, as well as Rate of Production Analysis (RoPA) and Sensitivity Analysis (SA) to investigate the complex chemistry involved in the auto-ignition and the pollutants formation processes. In the final sections of the paper, these capabilities are demonstrated through the comparison with experimental data.« less

Double-sided laser beam welded T-joints for aluminum-lithium alloy aircraft fuselage panels: Effects of filler elements on microstructure and mechanical properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Han, Bing; Tao, Wang; Chen, Yanbin; Li, Hao

2017-08-01

In the current work, T-joints consisting of 2.0 mm thick 2060-T8/2099-T83 aluminum-lithium alloys for aircraft fuselage panels have been fabricated by double-sided fiber laser beam welding with different filler wires. A new type wire CW3 (Al-6.2Cu-5.4Si) was studied and compared with conventional wire AA4047 (Al-12Si) mainly on microstructure and mechanical properties. It was found that the main combined function of Al-6.2%Cu-5.4%Si in CW3 resulted in considerable improvements especially on intergranular strength, hot cracking susceptibility and hoop tensile properties. Typical non-dendritic equiaxed zone (EQZ) was observed along welds' fusion boundary. Hot cracks and fractures during the load were always located within the EQZ, however, this typical zone could be restrained by CW3, effectively. Furthermore, changing of the main intergranular precipitated phase within the EQZ from T phase by AA4047 to T2 phase by CW3 also resulted in developments on microscopic intergranular reinforcement and macroscopic hoop tensile properties. In addition, bridging caused by richer substructure dendrites within CW3 weld's columnar zone resulted in much lower hot cracking susceptibility of the whole weld than AA4047.

An improved measurement of Vickers indentation behaviour through enhanced instrumentation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Faisal, N. H.; Reuben, R. L.; Ahmed, R.

2011-01-01

This work presents an enhanced instrumented Vickers indentation technique capable of recording force, displacement and acoustic emission (AE) during loading condition. Four materials were chosen for examination; copper, aluminium, steel and as-sprayed HVOF WC-12%Co coating. Results indicate that force-displacement (P-h) profiles are essentially bilinear with two characteristic slopes separated by a distinct displacement arrest for all loads above 98 N. The P-h curve indicates three distinct loading stages (I, II and III) and the stage III mechanical energy increases with loads. About 66% of the hardened steel indentations but only about 18% of the as-sprayed HVOF WC-12%Co coating indentations exhibited an AE record that could be separated into three distinct zones (A, B and C). Where zoning was possible the AE corresponding to a zone correlated well with the AE associated with a loading stage. It is concluded that plastic deformation in soft metals produced little AE, whereas brittle fracture in hardened steel and as-sprayed HVOF WC-12%Co coating produced significant AE. AE may or may not be focused onto particular stages of the indentation and a full measure of crack prevalence would require fractal dimension analysis, which is time consuming, offering a motivation for AE-based indentation testing.

Humor in the "Twilight Zone": My Work as a Medical Clown With Patients With Dementia.

PubMed

Raviv, Amnon

2014-09-01

Medical clowning has been primarily identified with working with children in pediatrics wards in hospitals. Over the past decade, more and more medical clowns have been working with adults and with patients with dementia as part of holistic care. Along with traditional medical care by hospital staff, the medical clown treats the patient's emotional side. Furthermore, medical clowning has unique advantages in working with patients with dementia. Several studies have shown that humor assists in improving the quality of life of patients with dementia. The clown, as the ultimate comic figure, creates interactions with patients based on humor, which empowers, calms, and strengthens the patient while reinforcing the patient's connection with the surroundings. Medical clowning is an interdisciplinary therapeutic art, and the medical clown has a "kit" of multiple skills (including humor, drama, music, and dance), all of which have a beneficial, therapeutic impact on patients. The current article presents and analyzes case studies from my work as a medical clown with patients with dementia. © The Author(s) 2013.

Characterization of the hydrogeology and stress state in the vicinity of the homestake mine, Lead, SD

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ebenhack, Johnathan Foss

Underground workings in fractured rock are common worldwide. They have applications in numerous areas and fields of study. These include mining operations, civil engineering projects like tunnels and underground facilities, and research projects that require underground laboratories such as the physics research being conducted by Sanford Laboratory at the former Homestake mine and Fermi Laboratory near Chicago (Bahcall et al. 2001, Elsworth 2009, Sadoulet et al. 2006, bge science DUSEL, fnal.gov). These excavations can reach several kilometers in depth including the 3.9 km deep TauTona mine in South Africa, the 3 km deep LaRonde mine in Quebec and the 2.4 km deep Homestake mine in South Dakota. Large quantities of rock are removed when constructing deep excavations, for example Rahn and Roggenthen (2002) estimated the total volume of rock removed from the Homestake mine to be 2.1x107 m3. Removing large volumes of rock alters the local stress state and ground water flow, potentially increasing risks to workers and the environment (Kaiser et al. 2008, Blodgett et al. 2002, Lucier et al. 2009, Goldbach 2010, Kang et al. 2010). The objective of this research is to develop a better understanding of how deep rock excavations can alter groundwater flow, stress state, and deformation in the rock that envelopes them. The approach is to evaluate how the hydraulic head, flow paths and stress state have been affected by excavation at the Homestake mine in Lead, South Dakota, one of the deepest mines in North America. The Homestake mine was selected as a focus of this research because it has recently been evaluated as the site of a deep underground research laboratory where an understanding of the groundwater flow and stress state was needed to plan underground experiments. The investigation includes poroelastic modeling of the Homestake mine using available geologic and geophysical data and mine records. Results from the analyses indicate that mining and dewatering have changed the hydrology and stress state in the vicinity of the Homestake mine. Dewatering reduces the hydraulic head and changes the flow systems in the vicinity of the mine. Four major hydrogeologic zones are recognized: 1.) a Shallow Flow System in the upper few hundred meters that dominates recharge and discharge to streams, 2.) a Recharge Capture Zone where water that has entered the region as recharge since mining began is captured by the mine, 3.) a Storage Capture Zone where water from storage in the host rock around the mine is captured, and 4.) a Mine Workings Zone where rock has been removed. Water enters the system at the top of the Shallow Flow System and either discharges to the streams or flows downward and becomes recharge to the lower capture zones. The Recharge Capture Zone grows with time as regions of storage are depleted and new recharge enters, and eventually it is assumed that the entire capture zone for the mine will become the Recharge Capture Zone. Fluxes from the Shallow Flow System to the Recharge Capture Zone typically range from 1x10-9 to 4x10-9 m/s. The largest recharge fluxes from the Shallow Flow System to the Recharge Capture Zone occur above the shallowest portions of the mine. Recharge flux also occurs above areas adjacent to the mine, and when projected to the surface the Recharge Capture Zone creates a roughly elliptical shape that is 6 km x 3.6 km. The Storage Capture Zone extends out beyond and below the Recharge Capture Zone and when projected to the surface creates a roughly elliptical region that is approximately 8.3 km x 6.6 km and extends down to depths of almost 5 km. Hydraulic heads and flow paths have been affected beyond the Storage Capture Zone but this water had not reached the mine by 135 years and therefore these regions are not included in the capture zones. The model was calibrated using in-situ stress data at various points in the mine to improve its ability to estimate the stress state and mechanical deformation around the Homestake mine. This was done by varying the rock density, Poisson's ratio, the effective Young's modulus of the workings region, and including initial stresses until predicted stresses best fit in-situ stress data. The changing mechanical properties in the workings and dewatering cause changes to the stress around the mine. The mining process typically causes increased compression laterally around the workings and decreased compression above, below, and within the workings. The greatest changes in total stress are near the base of the mine and reach roughly 40 MPa between the ore bodies and in the lower portions of the West Ore Body. The softening of the mine region because of material removal and decreased fluid pressure in the workings results in deformation in the vicinity of the mine. Subsidence occurs above the mine region and is greatest near the surface and decreases with depth; above the shallowest workings subsidence can reach approximately 0.18 m. There is also uplift along the footwall of the workings in the deeper portions of the mine that can reach up to 0.022 m. Horizontal displacements of as much as several centimeters occur around the mine and with displacement towards the workings region. Deformation in the vicinity of the mine results in tilt that is towards the workings with the greatest tilts near the surface. A fault that intersects the West Ore Body was considered as a location for an experiment into the mechanics of earthquake nucleation, so the stress state in the vicinity of this feature was of particular interest. This simulation shows that mining and dewatering reduce fluid pressure and change stresses along the fault. The shear stress along the fault typically increases along most of the fault and decreases in the region where the fault and West Ore Body intersect. Increased shear is typically on the order of 1 to 2 MPa but can reach as much as 5 MPa in areas around the intersection of the fault and West Ore Body. In the region along the fault intersecting the West Ore Body, the decrease in shear can reach -11 MPa. The total normal stress along the fault becomes more compressive along most of the fault and less compressive in the intersection between the fault and West Ore Body. The increase in total compression is approximately 2 MPa, and the reduction in compression in the intersection is approximately 10 MPa. The critical shear stress along the fault was calculated using Mohr-Coulomb failure criteria presented by Byerlee (1978), and the ratio of the estimated shear stress along the fault and the critical shear stress (ts/tf) was found to approximate the potential for slip along the fault. Mining results in a reduction in slip potential with values of ts/t f ranging from 0.66 to 1.1 before mining and from 0.22 to 0.67 after mining. This reduction in slip potential results from reductions in fluid pressure and increased normal compression caused by mining activities.

Numerical modeling of regional stress distributions for geothermal exploration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guillon, Theophile; Peter-Borie, Mariane; Gentier, Sylvie; Blaisonneau, Arnold

2017-04-01

Any high-enthalpy unconventional geothermal projectcan be jeopardized by the uncertainty on the presence of the geothermal resource at depth. Indeed, for the majority of such projects the geothermal resource is deeply seated and, with the drilling costs increasing accordingly, must be located as precisely as possible to increase the chance of their economic viability. In order to reduce the "geological risk", i.e., the chance to poorly locate the geothermal resource, a maximum amount of information must be gathered prior to any drilling of exploration and/or operational well. Cross-interpretation from multiple disciplines (e.g., geophysics, hydrology, geomechanics …) should improve locating the geothermal resource and so the position of exploration wells ; this is the objective of the European project IMAGE (grant agreement No. 608553), under which the work presented here was carried out. As far as geomechanics is concerned, in situ stresses can have a great impact on the presence of a geothermal resource since they condition both the regime within the rock mass, and the state of the major fault zones (and hence, the possible flow paths). In this work, we propose a geomechanical model to assess the stress distribution at the regional scale (characteristic length of 100 kilometers). Since they have a substantial impact on the stress distributions and on the possible creation of regional flow paths, the major fault zones are explicitly taken into account. The Distinct Element Method is used, where the medium is modeled as fully deformable blocks representing the rock mass interacting through mechanically active joints depicting the fault zones. The first step of the study is to build the model geometry based on geological and geophysical evidences. Geophysical and structural geology results help positioning the major fault zones in the first place. Then, outcrop observations, structural models and site-specific geological knowledge give information on the fault zones family sets and their priority rule. In the second step, the physical model must be established, including constitutive equations for the rock mass and the fault zones, initial state and boundary conditions. At such large scales, physical laws and parameters are difficult to assess and must be constrained by sensitivity analysis. In the last step of the study, the results can be interpreted to highlight areas where the mechanical conditions favor the presence of a geothermal resource. The DEM enables accounting for the strong stress redistributions inherent to highly-segmented geometries, and to the dilational opening of fault zones under shearing. A 130x150 square-kilometers region within the Upper Rhine Graben is used as a case-study to illustrate the building and interpretation of a regional stress model.

An Improved Artificial Bee Colony-Based Approach for Zoning Protected Ecological Areas

PubMed Central

Shao, Jing; Yang, Lina; Peng, Ling; Chi, Tianhe; Wang, Xiaomeng

2015-01-01

China is facing ecological and environmental challenges as its urban growth rate continues to rise, and zoning protected ecological areas is recognized as an effective response measure. Zoning inherently involves both site attributes and aggregation attributes, and the combination of mathematical models and heuristic algorithms have proven advantageous. In this article, an improved artificial bee colony (IABC)-based approach is proposed for zoning protected ecological areas at a regional scale. Three main improvements were made: the first is the use of multiple strategies to generate the initial bee population of a specific quality and diversity, the second is an exploitation search procedure to generate neighbor solutions combining “replace” and “alter” operations, and the third is a “swap” strategy to enable a local search for the iterative optimal solution. The IABC algorithm was verified using simulated data. Then it was applied to define an optimum scheme of protected ecological areas of Sanya (in the Hainan province of China), and a reasonable solution was obtained. Finally, a comparison experiment with other methods (agent-based land allocation model, ant colony optimization, and density slicing) was conducted and demonstrated that the IABC algorithm was more effective and efficient than the other methods. Through this study, we aimed to provide a scientifically sound, practical approach for zoning procedures. PMID:26394148

Application of heterogeneous blading systems is the way for improving efficiency of centrifugal energy pumps

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pochylý, F.; Haluza, M.; Fialová, S.; Dobšáková, L.; Volkov, A. V.; Parygin, A. G.; Naumov, A. V.; Vikhlyantsev, A. A.; Druzhinin, A. A.

2017-11-01

The results of independent research implemented by the teams of authors representing the Brno University of technology (Czech Republic) and Moscow Power Engineering Institute National Research University (Russia) are presented and compared. The possibilities for improving the energy efficiency of slow-speed centrifugal pumps (with a specific speed coefficient n s < 80) widely used in power engineering—in thermal power stations, in heat electric-power stations, in nuclear power plants, and in boiler rooms—were investigated. These are supply pumps, condensate pumps, precharge pumps, etc. The pumps with such values of n s are widely used in some technological cycles of oil-and-gas and chemical industries too. The research was focused on achieving the shape of the pump efficiency characteristics providing a significant extension of its effective working zone and increasing its integrated efficiency. The results were obtained based on new approaches to the formation of a blading system of an impeller of a slow-speed centrifugal pump different from the traditional blading system. The analytical dependences illustrating the influence of individual geometry of a blading system on the efficiency were presented. The possibilities of purposeful changing of its structure were demonstrated. It was experimentally confirmed that use of the innovative blading system makes it possible to increase the pump efficiency by 1-4% (in the experiments for the pumps with n s = 33 and 55) and to extend its efficient working zone approximately by 15-20% (in the experiment for the pumps with n s = 33 and 66). The latter is especially important for the supply pumps of NPP power units. The experimental results for all investigated pumps are presented in comparison with the characteristics of the efficiency provided by the blading systems designed by traditional methods.

Hyporheic network (Hyporheisches Netzwerk)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lewandowski, J.; Fleckenstein, J.; Hoehn, E.; Nützmann, G.; Radke, M.; Saenger, N.; Schmidt, C.

2009-04-01

The transition zone between surface waters like streams and rivers and the adjacent aquifers is a zone of paramount ecological importance. Due to the complexity of exchange processes, their temporal variability, and the spatial heterogeneity of the ecotone, the understanding and ability to modell the hydrodynamic, hydrochemical, and (micro-)biological processes is still limited. Therefore, a network of scientists and practitioners involved in research and management of hyporheic zones in German-speaking countries (Germany, Switzerland, Austria) is propsed in analogy to the hyporheic network (www.hyporheic.net) in the UK. The initiators of the network anticipate that an intense scientific exchange of knowledge and methods will improve our understanding of hyporheic processes and in turn our ability to manage them. The network will facilitate the formation of research groups to identify and understand key processes and their interactions. Research will be focused at a few major study sites, to bring together different expertise to allow more detailed, interdisciplinary investigations. Those sites can serve as crystallisation points for new research projects. Exchange within the network will be organized via an internet platform (www.hyporheisches-netzwerk.de), regular workshops, and several working groups dealing with different topics. A fast knowledge transfer is a further aim of the collaboration in order to shorten the time-lag between scientific findings and their implementation into management practice. Water resources management authorities should also be involved in the network to address urgent problems and direct some capacities to answer those questions. For instance, changes in geomorphology, water and temperature regimes as well as other anthropogenic impacts might increase the need for cold water refugia and altered flow regimes to maintain biodiversity. Additional qualitative improvements are required by the EU water framework directive.

Ecohydrological dynamics of peatlands and adjacent upland forests in the Rocky Mountains

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Millar, D.; Parsekian, A.; Mercer, J.; Ewers, B. E.; Mackay, D. S.; Williams, D. G.; Cooper, D. J.; Ronayne, M. J.

2017-12-01

Mountain peatlands are susceptible to a changing climate via changes in the water cycle. Understanding the impacts of such changes requires knowledge of the hydrological processes within these peatlands and in the upland forests that supply them with water. We investigated hydrological processes in peatland catchments in the Rocky Mountains by developing empirical models of groundwater dynamics, and are working to improve subsurface water dynamics in a ecohydrological process model, the Terrestrial Regional Ecosystem Exchange Simulator (TREES). Results from empirical models showed major differences in water budget components between two peatlands with differing climate, vegetation, and hydrogeological settings. Several-fold higher rates of evapotranspiration from the saturated zone, and groundwater inflow were observed for a sloping fen in southern Wyoming than that of a basin fen in southwestern Colorado, where rainfall was two-fold higher due to stronger influence of the North American monsoon. We also present ongoing work coupling stable water isotope and borehole nuclear magnetic resonance analyses to test which soil water pools (bound or mobile) are used by dominant upland and peatland vegetation in two catchments in southern Wyoming. These data are being used to test whether the root hydraulic mechanisms in TREES can simulate water uptake from these two soil water pools, and sap flux measurements are being used to evaluate simulated transpiration. Preliminary results from this work suggest that upland vegetation utilize tightly-bound soil water pools, as these pools comprise the largest amount of subsurface water (> 80%) in the vadose zone long after snow melt. Conversely, it appears that herbaceous peatland hydrophytes may preferentially utilize mobile soil water pools, since their roots extend below the water table. The results of this work are expected to increase predictive understanding of hydrological processes in these important ecosystems.

Effectiveness of increased law enforcement surveillance on work zone safety in Mississippi.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2007-07-01

Increased law enforcement surveillance program is one of the methods currently been implemented by departments of transportation in the United States in an effort to increase safety for both drivers and workers in highway construction zones. Unfortun...

Improving precipitation hardening behavior of Mg−Zn based alloys with Ce−Ca microalloying additions

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

Langelier, B., E-mail: langelb@mcmaster.ca

2016-10-15

The precipitation hardening behavior of newly developed Mg−Zn−Ca−Ce alloys, with modified texture and improved ductility, is studied to delineate the microstructural characteristics that lead to effective hardening upon ageing treatments. Advanced electron microscopy and atom probe techniques are used to analyze the structural characteristics in relevance to the hardening potential. It has been found that the formation of a new basal precipitate phase, which evolves from a single atomic layer GP zone, and is finely distributed in both under-aged and peak-aged microstructures, has a significant impact in the improvement of the hardening response compared with the base Mg−Zn alloys. Itmore » has also been found that the β′{sub 1} rod precipitates, commonly formed during ageing treatments of Mg−Zn alloys, have their size and distribution significantly refined in the Ca−Ce containing alloys. The role of alloy chemistry in the formation of the fine basal plate GP zones and the refinement in β′{sub 1} precipitation and their relationships to the hardening behavior are discussed. It is proposed that Ca microalloying governs the formation of the GP zones and the enhancement of hardening, particularly in the under-aged conditions, but that this is aided by a beneficial effect from Ce. - Highlights: • Ce−Ca microalloying additions improve hardening in Mg−Zn, over Ce or Ca alone. • Improved hardening is due to refined β′{sub 1} rods, and fine basal plate precipitates. • Atom probe tomography identifies Ca in both β′{sub 1} and the fine basal plates. • The fine basal plates originate as ordered monolayer GP zones with 1:1 Zn:Ca (at.%). • With ageing GP zones become more Zn-rich and transform to the fine basal plates.« less

Parallax barrier engineering for image quality improvement in an autostereoscopic 3D display.

PubMed

Kim, Sung-Kyu; Yoon, Ki-Hyuk; Yoon, Seon Kyu; Ju, Heongkyu

2015-05-18

We present a image quality improvement in a parallax barrier (PB)-based multiview autostereoscopic 3D display system under a real-time tracking of positions of a viewer's eyes. The system presented exploits a parallax barrier engineered to offer significantly improved quality of three-dimensional images for a moving viewer without an eyewear under the dynamic eye tracking. The improved image quality includes enhanced uniformity of image brightness, reduced point crosstalk, and no pseudoscopic effects. We control the relative ratio between two parameters i.e., a pixel size and the aperture of a parallax barrier slit to improve uniformity of image brightness at a viewing zone. The eye tracking that monitors positions of a viewer's eyes enables pixel data control software to turn on only pixels for view images near the viewer's eyes (the other pixels turned off), thus reducing point crosstalk. The eye tracking combined software provides right images for the respective eyes, therefore producing no pseudoscopic effects at its zone boundaries. The viewing zone can be spanned over area larger than the central viewing zone offered by a conventional PB-based multiview autostereoscopic 3D display (no eye tracking). Our 3D display system also provides multiviews for motion parallax under eye tracking. More importantly, we demonstrate substantial reduction of point crosstalk of images at the viewing zone, its level being comparable to that of a commercialized eyewear-assisted 3D display system. The multiview autostereoscopic 3D display presented can greatly resolve the point crosstalk problem, which is one of the critical factors that make it difficult for previous technologies for a multiview autostereoscopic 3D display to replace an eyewear-assisted counterpart.

Zone Logic Applications for Submarine Overhauls (The National Shipbuilding Research Program)

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-08-01

outfitting and work packaging are parts of this more general management 5B-1 figure 1 - USS Bluefish Pilot Project Key Events figure 2 - USS Bluefish ...met. This approach to organizing work was expanded in the next pilot project on the overhaul of the USS Bluefish . Zone Outfitting on the USS Bluefish ...Portsmouth developed a pilot project on the overhaul of the USS Bluefish . The intention of this pilot project has been to explore the technical

Investigation of the Profile Control Mechanisms of Dispersed Particle Gel

PubMed Central

Zhao, Guang; Dai, Caili; Zhao, Mingwei

2014-01-01

Dispersed particle gel (DPG) particles of nano- to micron- to mm-size have been prepared successfully and will be used for profile control treatment in mature oilfields. The profile control and enhanced oil recovery mechanisms of DPG particles have been investigated using core flow tests and visual simulation experiments. Core flow test results show that DPG particles can easily be injected into deep formations and can effectively plug the high permeability zones. The high profile improvement rate improves reservoir heterogeneity and diverts fluid into the low permeability zone. Both water and oil permeability were reduced when DPG particles were injected, but the disproportionate permeability reduction effect was significant. Water permeability decreases more than the oil permeability to ensure that oil flows in its own pathways and can easily be driven out. Visual simulation experiments demonstrate that DPG particles can pass directly or by deformation through porous media and enter deep formations. By retention, adsorption, trapping and bridging, DPG particles can effectively reduce the permeability of porous media in high permeability zones and divert fluid into a low permeability zone, thus improving formation profiles and enhancing oil recovery. PMID:24950174

Comparative Effect of Physicomechanical and Biomolecular Cues on Zone-Specific Chondrogenic Differentiation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells

PubMed Central

Moeinzadeh, Seyedsina; Shariati, Seyed Ramin Pajoum; Jabbari, Esmaiel

2016-01-01

Current tissue engineering approaches to regeneration of articular cartilage rarely restore the tissue to its normal state because the generated tissue lacks the intricate zonal organization of the native cartilage. Zonal regeneration of articular cartilage is hampered by the lack of knowledge for the relation between physical, mechanical, and biomolecular cues and zone-specific chondrogenic differentiation of progenitor cells. This work investigated in 3D the effect of TGF-β1, zone-specific growth factors, optimum matrix stiffness, and adding nanofibers on the expression of chondrogenic markers specific to the superficial, middle, and calcified zones of articular cartilage by the differentiating human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs). Growth factors included BMP-7, IGF-1, and hydroxyapatite (HA) for the superficial, middle, and calcified zones, respectively; optimum matrix stiffness was 80 kPa, 2.1 MPa, and 320 MPa; and nanofibers were aligned horizontal, random, and perpendicular to the gel surface. hMSCs with zone-specific cell densities were encapsulated in engineered hydrogels and cultured with or without TGF-β1, zone-specific growth factor, optimum matrix modulus, and fiber addition and cultured in basic chondrogenic medium. The expression of encapsulated cells was measured by mRNA, protein, and biochemical analysis. Results indicated that zone-specific matrix stiffness had a dominating effect on chondrogenic differentiation of hMSCs to the superficial and calcified zone phenotypes. Addition of aligned nanofibers parallel to the direction of gel surface significantly enhanced expression of Col II in the superficial zone chondrogenic differentiation of hMSCs. Conversely, biomolecular factor IGF-1 in combination with TGF-β1 had a dominating effect on the middle zone chondrogenic differentiation of hMSCs. Results of this work could potentially lead to the development of multilayer grafts mimicking the zonal organization of articular cartilage. PMID:27038568

The transparency trap.

PubMed

Bernstein, Ethan

2014-10-01

To promote accountability, productivity, and shared learning, many organizations create open work environments and gather reams of data on how individuals spend their time. A few years ago, HBS professor Ethan Bernstein set out to find empirical evidence that such approaches improve organizational performance. What he discovered is that this kind of transparency often has an unintended consequence: It can leave employees feeling vulnerable and exposed. When that happens, they conceal any conduct that deviates from the norm so that they won't have to explain it. Unrehearsed, experimental behaviors sometimes stop altogether. But Bernstein also discovered organizations that had established zones of privacy within open environments by setting four types of boundaries: around teams, between feedback and evaluation, between decision rights and improvement rights, and around periods of experimentation. Moreover, across several studies, the companies that had done all this were the ones that consistently got the most creative, efficient, and thoughtful work from their employees. Bernstein's conclusion? By balancing transparency and privacy, organizations can capture the benefits of both, and encourage just the right amount of "positive deviance" needed to increase innovation and productivity.

Microstructure, Tensile Properties and Work Hardening Behavior of GTA-Welded Dual-Phase Steels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ashrafi, H.; Shamanian, M.; Emadi, R.; Saeidi, N.

2017-03-01

In the present study, microstructure, tensile properties and work hardening behavior of a DP700 steel after gas tungsten arc welding were investigated. Formation of bainite in the fusion zone resulted in a hardness increase compared to that for the base metal (BM), whereas tempering of the pre-existing martensite in the subcritical heat-affected zone (HAZ) led to softening. The GTA-welded joint exhibited a continuous yielding behavior and a yield strength close to that for the BM, while its ultimate tensile strength and total elongation were lower than those for the BM owing to the formation of soft zone in the HAZ. A joint efficiency of about 81% was obtained for the GTA-welded joint, and it failed in the softened HAZ. Analysis of work hardening based on the Kocks-Mecking approach showed one stage of hardening behavior corresponding to the stage III for both the DP700 BM and welded sample. It was also revealed that the DP700 BM has larger values of work hardening exponent and magnitude of work hardening compared with the welded sample. Analysis of fractured surfaces showed that the dominant fracture mode for both the DP700 BM and welded joint was ductile.

The Seismotectonic Model of Southern Africa

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Midzi, Vunganai; Mulabisana, Thifelimbulu; Manzunzu, Brassnavy

2013-04-01

Presented in this report is a summary of the major structures and seismotectonic zones in Southern Africa (Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, South Africa and Swaziland), which includes available information on fault plane solutions and stress data. Reports published by several experts contributed much to the prepared zones. The work was prepared as part of the requirements for the SIDA/IGCP Project 601 titled "Seismotectonics and Seismic Hazards in Africa" as well as part of the seismic source characterisation of the GEM-Africa Seismic hazard study. The seismic data used are part of the earthquake catalogue being prepared for the GEM-Africa project, which includes historical and instrumental records as collected from various agencies. Seventeen seismic zones/sources were identified and demarcated using all the available information. Two of the identiied sources are faults with reliable evidence of their activity. Though more faults have been identified in unpublished material as being active, more work is being carried out to obtain information that can be used to characterise them before they are included in the seismotectonic model. Explanations for the selected boundaries of the zones are also given in the report. It should be noted that this information is the first draft of the seismic source zones of the region. Futher interpreation of the data is envisaged which might result in more than one version of the zones.

Analytical Investigation of the Decrease in the Size of the Habitable Zone Due to a Limited CO2 Outgassing Rate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abbot, Dorian S.

2016-08-01

The habitable zone concept is important because it focuses the scientific search for extraterrestrial life and aids the planning of future telescopes. Recent work has shown that planets near the outer edge of the habitable zone might not actually be able to stay warm and habitable if CO2 outgassing rates are not large enough to maintain high CO2 partial pressures against removal by silicate weathering. In this paper, I use simple equations for the climate and CO2 budget of a planet in the habitable zone that can capture the qualitative behavior of the system. With these equations I derive an analytical formula for an effective outer edge of the habitable zone, including limitations imposed by the CO2 outgassing rate. I then show that climate cycles between a snowball state and a warm climate are only possible beyond this limit if the weathering rate in the snowball climate is smaller than the CO2 outgassing rate (otherwise stable snowball states result). I derive an analytical solution for the climate cycles including a formula for their period in this limit. This work allows us to explore the qualitative effects of weathering processes on the effective outer edge of the habitable zone, which is important because weathering parameterizations are uncertain.

Analytical Investigation of the Decrease in the Size of the Habitable Zone due to Limited CO2 Outgassing Rate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abbot, D. S.

2016-12-01

The habitable zone concept is important because it focuses the scientific search for extraterrestrial life and aids the planning of future telescopes. Recent work has shown that planets near the outer edge of the habitable zone might not actually be able to stay warm and habitable if CO2 outgassing rates are not large enough to maintain high CO2 partial pressures against removal by silicate weathering. I use simple equations for the climate and CO2 budget of a planet in the habitable zone that can capture the qualitative behavior of the system. With these equations I derive an analytical formula for an effective outer edge of the habitable zone, including limitations imposed by the CO2 outgassing rate. I then show that climate cycles between a Snowball state and a warm climate are only possible beyond this limit if the weathering rate in the Snowball climate is smaller than the CO2 outgassing rate (otherwise stable Snowball states result). I derive an analytical solution for the climate cycles including a formula for their period in this limit. This work allows us to explore the qualitative effects of weathering processes on the effective outer edge of the habitable zone, which is important because weathering parameterizations are uncertain.

The Work Compatibility Improvement Framework: an integrated perspective of the human-at-work system.

PubMed

Genaidy, Ash; Salem, Sam; Karwowski, Waldemar; Paez, Omar; Tuncel, Setenay

2007-01-15

The industrial revolution demonstrated the limitations of a pure mechanistic approach towards work design. Human work is now seen as a complex entity that involves different scientific branches and blurs the line between mental and physical activities. Job design has been a traditional concern of applied psychology, which has provided insight into the interaction between the individual and the work environment. The goal of this paper is to introduce the human-at-work system as a holistic approach to organizational design. It postulates that the well-being of workers and work outcomes are issues that need to be addressed jointly, moving beyond traditional concepts of job satisfaction and work stress. The work compatibility model (WCM) is introduced as an engineering approach that seeks to integrate previous constructs of job and organizational design. The WCM seeks a balance between energy expenditure and replenishment. The implementation of the WCM in industrial settings is described within the context of the Work Compatibility Improvement Framework. A sample review of six models (motivation-hygiene theory; job characteristics theory; person-environment fit; demand-control model; and balance theory) provides the foundation for the interaction between the individual and the work environment. A review of three workload assessment methods (position analysis questionnaire, job task analysis and NASA task load index) gives an example of the foundation for the taxonomy of work environment domains. Previous models have sought to identify a balance state for the human-at-work system. They differentiated between the objective and subjective effects of the environment and the worker. An imbalance between the person and the environment has been proven to increase health risks. The WCM works with a taxonomy of 12 work domains classified in terms of the direct (acting) or indirect (experienced) effect on the worker. In terms of measurement, two quantitative methods are proposed to measure the state of the system. The first method introduced by Abdallah et al. (2004) identifies operating zones. The second method introduced by Salem et al. (2006) identifies the distribution of the work elements on the x/y coordinate plane. While previous efforts have identified some relevant elements of the systems, they failed to provide a holistic, quantitative approach combining organizational and human factors into a common framework. It is postulated that improving the well-being of workers will simultaneously improve organizational outcomes. The WCM moves beyond previous models by providing a hierarchical structure of work domains and a combination of methods to diagnose any organizational setting. The WCM is an attempt to achieve organizational excellence in human resource management, moving beyond job design to an integrated improvement strategy. A joint approach to organizational and job design will not only result in decreased prevalence of health risks, but in enhanced organizational effectiveness as well. The implementation of the WCM, that is, the Work Compatibility Improvement Framework, provides the basis for integrating different elements of the work environment into a single reliable construct. An improvement framework is essential to ensure that the measures of the WCM result in a system that is adaptive and self-regulated.

No place like home: using seed zones to improve restoration of native grasses in the West

Treesearch

Geoff Koch; Brad St. Clair; Vicky Erickson

2015-01-01

Seed zones and seed transfer guidelines describe where plants are most likely to thrive. Scientists with the Forest Service and Agricultural Research Service undertook a 9-year project to build empirical seed zones for bluebunch wheatgrass, a foundational native grass throughout the West. The research will help the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management...

Improved forward and inverse analyses of saturated-unsaturated flow toward a well in a compressible unconfined aquifer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mishra, Phoolendra Kumar; Neuman, Shlomo P.

2010-07-01

We present an analytical solution for flow to a partially penetrating well in a compressible unconfined aquifer that allows inferring its saturated and unsaturated hydraulic properties from drawdowns recorded in the saturated and/or unsaturated zone. We improve upon a previous such solution due to Tartakovsky and Neuman (2007) by (1) adopting a more flexible representation of unsaturated zone constitutive properties and (2) allowing the unsaturated zone to have finite thickness. Both solutions account for horizontal as well as vertical flows throughout the system. We investigate the effects of unsaturated zone constitutive parameters and thickness on drawdowns in the saturated and unsaturated zones as functions of position and time; demonstrate the development of significant horizontal hydraulic gradients in the unsaturated zone in response to pumping; validate our solution against numerical simulations of drawdown in a synthetic aquifer having unsaturated properties described by the van Genuchten-Mualem constitutive model; use our solution to analyze drawdown data from a pumping test conducted by the U.S. Geological Survey at Cape Cod, Massachusetts; and compare our estimates of van Genuchten-Mualem parameters with laboratory values obtained for similar materials in the area.

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

Godby, M.; Ugolini, C.; Lyman, M.

In response to a request from the Allied Industrial Workers Union, an investigation was begun into possible hazardous working conditions at Bryan Custom Plastics (SIC-3089), Bryan, Ohio. The company manufactured plastic television cabinets and interior automotive door panels by an extrusion molding process. Full shift, personal breathing zone and area sampling revealed no excess levels of exposure to total paint mist, toluene, xylene, ethyl-benzene, methyl-methacrylate, methyl-ethyl-ketone, methyl-isobutyl-ketone, or n-butanol. Carbon-monoxide concentrations ranged up to 34 and 90 parts per million in the spray finishing areas and quality control areas, respectively. The author concludes that health hazards from exposure to airbornemore » particulates and organic solvents were not found at the time of the survey. There was a potential for overexposures to carbon-monoxide. The author recommends that carbon-monoxide levels be reduced, and work practices improved.« less

Application of the zone-melting technique to metal chelate systems-VI A new apparatus for zone-melting chromatography.

PubMed

Maeda, S; Kobayashi, H; Ueno, K

1973-07-01

An improved apparatus has been constructed for zone-melting chromatography. An essential feature of the apparatus is that the length of the molten zone can be kept constant during a zone-melting operation, by employing heating and cooling compartments which are separated from each other by double partition plates. Each compartment is heated or cooled with jets of hot or cold air. The apparatus is suitable for organic materials melting in the range between 40 degrees and 180 degrees . The distribution of metal ion along the column after zone melting of copper acetylacetonate in 2-methoxynaphthalene was a smooth curve. The plot of the position of maximum concentration, x(max), against the number of zone passes, n, gave a relationship in accordance with theoretical prediction.

33 CFR 209.138a - Authorization for exploratory drilling in the Gulf of Santa Catalina, Calif.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... feasible to perform exploratory work from outside the traffic lanes or 1/4 mile buffer zones, or... cables, anchors, buoys, or other associated equipment within the traffic lanes, 1/4 mile buffer zones, or...

33 CFR 209.138a - Authorization for exploratory drilling in the Gulf of Santa Catalina, Calif.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... feasible to perform exploratory work from outside the traffic lanes or 1/4 mile buffer zones, or... cables, anchors, buoys, or other associated equipment within the traffic lanes, 1/4 mile buffer zones, or...

33 CFR 209.138a - Authorization for exploratory drilling in the Gulf of Santa Catalina, Calif.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... feasible to perform exploratory work from outside the traffic lanes or 1/4 mile buffer zones, or... cables, anchors, buoys, or other associated equipment within the traffic lanes, 1/4 mile buffer zones, or...

Accident characteristics at construction and maintenance zones in urban areas.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1990-01-01

Work zone safety is currently a major concern to transportation and highway engineers because of the relatively higher rates of accidents in these areas. There is a strong indication that during the next decade, emphasis will be placed on maintenance...

Improved perfusion system for bipolar radiofrequency ablation of liver: preliminary findings from a computer modeling study.

PubMed

Berjano, Enrique J; Burdío, Fernando; Navarro, Ana C; Burdío, José M; Güemes, Antonio; Aldana, Oscar; Ros, Paloma; Sousa, Ramón; Lozano, Ricardo; Tejero, Eloy; de Gregorio, Miguel A

2006-10-01

Current systems for radiofrequency ablation of liver tumors are unable to consistently treat tumors larger than 3 cm in diameter with a single electrode in a single application. One of the strategies for enlarging coagulation zone dimensions is to infuse saline solutions into the tissue through the active electrodes. Nevertheless, the uncontrolled and undirected diffusion of boiling saline into the tissue has been associated with irregular coagulation zones and severe complications, mainly due to reflux of saline along the electrode path. In order to improve the perfusion bipolar ablation method, we hypothesized that the creation of small monopolar coagulation zones adjacent to the bipolar electrodes and previous to the saline infusion would create preferential paths for the saline to concentrate on the targeted coagulation zone. Firstly, we conducted ex vivo experiments in order to characterize the monopolar coagulation zones. We observed that they are practically impermeable to the infused saline. On the basis of this finding, we built theoretical models and conducted computer simulations to assess the feasibility of our hypothesis. Temperature distributions during bipolar ablations with and without previous monopolar coagulation zones were obtained. The results showed that in the case of monopolar coagulation zones the temperature of the tissue took longer to reach 100 degrees C. Since this temperature value is related to rise of impedance, and the time necessary for this process is directly related to the volume of the coagulation zone, our results suggest that monopolar sealing would allow larger coagulation zones to be created. Future experimental studies should confirm this benefit.

Effects of different mechanized soil fertilization methods on corn soil fertility under continuous cropping

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shi, Qingwen; Wang, Huixin; Bai, Chunming; Wu, Di; Song, Qiaobo; Gao, Depeng; Dong, Zengqi; Cheng, Xin; Dong, Qiping; Zhang, Yahao; Mu, Jiahui; Chen, Qinghong; Liao, Wenqing; Qu, Tianru; Zhang, Chunling; Zhang, Xinyu; Liu, Yifei; Han, Xiaori

2017-05-01

Experiments for mechanized soil fertilization for corns were conducted in Faku demonstration zone. On this basis, we studied effects on corn soil fertility under continuous cropping due to different mechanized soil fertilization methods. Our study would serve as a theoretical basis further for mechanized soil fertilization improvement and soil quality improvement in brown soil area. Based on the survey of soil physical characteristics during different corn growth periods, we collected soil samples from different corn growth periods to determine and make statistical analysis accordingly. Stalk returning to field with deep tillage proved to be the most effective on available nutrient improvement for arable soil in the demonstration zone. Different mechanized soil fertilization methods were remarkably effective on total phosphorus improvement for arable soil in the demonstration zone, while less effective on total nitrogen or total potassium, and not so effective on C/N ratio in soil. Stalk returning with deep tillage was more favorable to improve content of organic matter in soil, when compared with surface application, and organic granular fertilizer more favorable when compared with decomposed cow dung for such a purpose, too.

The benefits of redesigning Benin's vaccine supply chain.

PubMed

Brown, Shawn T; Schreiber, Benjamin; Cakouros, Brigid E; Wateska, Angela R; Dicko, Hamadou M; Connor, Diana L; Jaillard, Philippe; Mvundura, Mercy; Norman, Bryan A; Levin, Carol; Rajgopal, Jayant; Avella, Mélanie; Lebrun, Caroline; Claypool, Erin; Paul, Proma; Lee, Bruce Y

2014-07-07

New vaccine introductions have put strains on vaccine supply chains around the world. While increasing storage and transportation may be the most straightforward options, it is also important to consider what financial and operational benefits can be incurred. In 2012, suboptimal vaccine coverage and impending vaccine introductions prompted the Republic of Benin's Ministry of Health (MOH) to explore ways to improve their vaccine supply chain. Working alongside the Beninese MOH, we utilized our computational model, HERMES, to explore the impact on cost and vaccine availability of three possible options: (1) consolidating the Commune level to a Health Zone level, (2) removing the Commune level completely, and (3) removing the Commune level and expanding to 12 Department Stores. We also analyzed the impact of adding shipping loops during delivery. At baseline, new vaccine introductions without any changes to the current system increased the logistics cost per dose ($0.23 to $0.26) and dropped the vaccine availability to 71%. While implementing the Commune level removal scenario had the same capital costs as implementing the Health Zone scenario, the Health Zone scenario had lower operating costs. This increased to an overall cost savings of $504,255 when implementing shipping loops. The best redesign option proved to be the synergistic approach of converting to the Health Zone design and using shipping loops (serving ten Health Posts/loop). While a transition to either redesign or only adding shipping loops was beneficial, implementing a redesign option and shipping loops can yield both lower capital expenditures and operating costs. Copyright © 2014 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Spatial and temporal disaggregation of the on-road vehicle emission inventory in a medium-sized Andean city. Comparison of GIS-based top-down methodologies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gómez, C. D.; González, C. M.; Osses, M.; Aristizábal, B. H.

2018-04-01

Emission data is an essential tool for understanding environmental problems associated with sources and dynamics of air pollutants in urban environments, especially those emitted from vehicular sources. There is a lack of knowledge about the estimation of air pollutant emissions and particularly its spatial and temporal distribution in South America, mainly in medium-sized cities with population less than one million inhabitants. This work performed the spatial and temporal disaggregation of the on-road vehicle emission inventory (EI) in the medium-sized Andean city of Manizales, Colombia, with a spatial resolution of 1 km × 1 km and a temporal resolution of 1 h. A reported top-down methodology, based on the analysis of traffic flow levels and road network distribution, was applied. Results obtained allowed the identification of several hotspots of emission at the downtown zone and the residential and commercial area of Manizales. Downtown exhibited the highest percentage contribution of emissions normalized by its total area, with values equal to 6% and 5% of total CO and PM10 emissions per km2 respectively. These indexes were higher than those obtained in residential-commercial area with values of 2%/km2 for both pollutants. Temporal distribution showed strong relationship with driving patterns at rush hours, as well as an important influence of passenger cars and motorcycles in emissions of CO both at downtown and residential-commercial areas, and the impact of public transport in PM10 emissions in the residential-commercial zone. Considering that detailed information about traffic counts and road network distribution is not always available in medium-sized cities, this work compares other simplified top-down methods for spatially assessing the on-road vehicle EI. Results suggested that simplified methods could underestimate the spatial allocation of downtown emissions, a zone dominated by high traffic of vehicles. The comparison between simplified methods based on total traffic counts and road density distribution suggested that the use of total traffic counts in a simplified form could enhance higher uncertainties in the spatial disaggregation of emissions. Results obtained could add new information that help to improve the air pollution management system in the city and contribute to local public policy decisions. Additionally, this work provides appropriate resolution emission fluxes for ongoing research in atmospheric modeling in the city, with the aim to improve the understanding of transport, transformation and impacts of pollutant emissions in urban air quality.

Subduction Zone Dewatering at the Southern End of New Zealand's Hikurangi Margin - Insights from 2D Seismic Tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Crutchley, G. J.; Klaeschen, D.

2016-12-01

The southern end of New Zealand's Hikurangi subduction margin is characterised by highly-oblique convergence as it makes a southward transition into a right-lateral transform plate boundary. Long-offset seismic data that cross part of the offshore portion of this transition zone give new insight into the nature of the margin. We have carried out two-dimensional pre-stack depth migrations with an iterative reflection tomography to update the velocity field on two seismic lines in this area. The depth-migrated sections show much-improved imaging of faulting within the wedge, and the seismic velocities themselves give clues about the distribution of gas and/or overpressured regions at the plate boundary and within the overlying wedge. A fascinating observation is a major splay fault that has been (or continues to be) a preferred dewatering pathway through the wedge, evidenced by a thermal anomaly that has left its mark on the overlying gas hydrate layer. Another interesting observation is a thick and laterally extensive low velocity zone beneath the subduction interface, which might have important implications for the long-term mechanical stability of the interface. Our on-going work on these data is focused on amplitude versus offset analysis in an attempt to better understand the nature of the subduction interface and also the shallower gas hydrate system. This study is an example of how distinct disturbances of the gas hydrate system can provide insight into subduction zone fluid flow processes that are important for understanding wedge stability and ultimately earthquake hazard.

The evolution of root zone moisture storage capacities after deforestation: a step towards hydrological predictions under change?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nijzink, Remko C.; Hutton, Christopher; Pechlivanidis, Ilias; Capell, René; Arheimer, Berit; Freer, Jim; Han, Dawei; Wagener, Thorsten; McGuire, Kevin; Savenije, Hubert; Hrachowitz, Markus

2017-04-01

The moisture storage available to vegetation is a key parameter in the hydrological functioning of ecosystems. This parameter, the root zone storage capacity, determines the partitioning between runoff and transpiration, but is impossible to observe at the catchment scale. In this research, data from the experimental forests of HJ Andrews (Oregon, USA) and Hubbard Brook (New Hampshire, USA) was used to test the hypotheses that: (1) the root zone storage capacity significantly changes after deforestation, (2) changes in the root zone storage capacity can to a large extent explain post-treatment changes to the hydrological regimes and that (3) a time-dynamic formulation of the root zone storage can improve the performance of a hydrological model. At first, root zone storage capacities were estimated based on a simple, water-balance based method. Briefly, the maximum difference between cumulative rainfall and estimated transpiration was determined, which could be considered a proxy for root zone storage capacity. These values were compared with root zone storage capacities obtained from four conceptual models (HYPE, HYMOD, FLEX, TUW), calibrated for consecutive 2-year windows. Both methods showed a sharp decline in root zone storage capacity after deforestation, which was followed by a gradual recovery signal. It was found in a trend analysis that these recovery periods took between 5 and 13 years for the different catchments. Eventually, one of the models was adjusted to allow for a time-dynamic formulation of root zone storage capacity. This adjusted model showed improvements in model performance as evaluated by 28 hydrological signatures, such as rising limb density or peak flows. Thus, this research clearly shows the time-dynamic character of a crucial parameter, which is often considered to remain constant in time. Root zone storage capacities are strongly affected by deforestation, leading to changes in hydrological regimes, and time-dynamic formulations of root zone storage are therefore necessary in systems under change.

Working in a danger zone: A qualitative study of Taiwanese nurses' work experiences in a negative pressure isolation ward.

PubMed

Chen, Shu-Ling; Chen, Kuei-Ling; Lee, Li-Hung; Yang, Cheng-I

2016-07-01

Hospital nurses are frontline health care workers in controlling the spread of infectious diseases. It is not known if nurses working in negative pressure isolation wards (NPIWs) are better prepared than before to safely care for patients with common infectious diseases. For this qualitative descriptive study, 10 nurses were interviewed in depth about their experiences caring for patients in an NPIW. Tape recordings were transcribed verbatim and analyzed by qualitative content analysis. The following 5 themes were identified: (1) complexity of patient care, (2) dissatisfaction with the quantity and quality of protective equipment, (3) shortage of nursing staff, (4) continued worries about being infected, and (5) sensitivity to self-protection. Our participants' anxiety and uncertainty about being infected in the NPIW were increased by the complexity of patients' health problems and organizational factors. To protect themselves against infection before and during patient care, participants also developed sensitivity to, concepts about, and strategies to improve self-protection. NPIW administrators should pay more attention to nurses' concerns about improving the NPIW working environment, supply good quality protective equipment, and provide appropriate psychologic support and ongoing education to ensure that nurses feel safe while working. This ongoing education should refresh and update nurses' knowledge about disease transmission, therefore decreasing unnecessary anxiety based on misunderstandings about becoming infected. Copyright © 2016 Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Trading Zones in Early Modern Europe.

PubMed

Long, Pamela O

2015-12-01

This essay adopts the concept of trading zones first developed for the history of science by Peter Galison and redefines it for the early modern period. The term "trading zones" is used to mean arenas in which substantive and reciprocal communication occurred between individuals who were artisanally trained and learned (university-trained) individuals. Such trading zones proliferated in the sixteenth century. They tended to arise in certain kinds of places and not in others, but their existence must be determined empirically. The author's work on trading zones differs from the ideas of Edgar Zilsel, who emphasized the influence of artisans on the scientific revolution. In contrast, in this essay, the mutual influence of artisans and the learned on each other is stressed, and translation is used as a modality that was important to communication within trading zones.

Integrated assessment of socio-economic risks of dangerous hydrological phenomena in Russian coastal zones of the Baltic, the Azov and the Black Seas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zemtsov, Stepan; Baburin, Vyacheslav; Goryachko, Mariya; Krylenko, Inna; Yumina, Natalya

2013-04-01

In 2012, an integrated damage from floods in Russia was about 1 billion euros, floods have caused the death of over 200 people. It is one of the most pressing scientific topics, but most of the works devoted to natural risks assessment. The main purpose of this work is to estimate the influence of dangerous hydrological phenomena (e.g. floods, underflooding and surges) on society, using vulnerability and damage assessment techniques. The objectives are to examine domestic and foreign methodologies, to integrate them and to test on specific Russian territory. Foreign training was organized at UNU-EHS (Bonn, Germany). Three different methods were used for each stage of research. The first part of the research was devoted to estimation of potential damage for population and economy of the Baltic Sea coastal zones. The authors used a model, which takes into account direct damage (loss of life, destruction of buildings, etc.) as well as indirect effects of the first, second, etc. orders (loss of profits, loss of the budget, etc.). A database, based on satellite images, maps, yearbooks of Russian Statistical Service and reports of entities, has been prepared. The database is a matrix, in which the rows are coastal zones, and the columns are given indicators: number of people in port areas (people), cost of fixed assets (million rubles), investment (million rubles.), revenue / profit (million rubles.), etc. The authors identified zones with different depth of flooding, using satellite images, and calculated the direct and indirect costs, using the methodology of EMERCOM. Maximum direct potential damage for the Baltic coast is about 15,7 billion euros, but indirect damage is more than 25,5 billion euros. The second part of research was devoted to vulnerability assessment of coastal municipalities of Krasnodar Region. A database, as a matrix of 252 parameters from 2007 to 2009 for 14 coastal municipalities, was developed. The parameters were divided into several blocks according to UNU-EHS methodology: 'exposure' and 'vulnerability', consisting of 'susceptibility', 'coping capacity' and 'adaptive capacity'. Relevant indicators for each block were selected and verified by statistical methods. The authors estimated the share of people potentially exposed to flooding with the help of geographic information system. The authors, using the technique of World Risk Index (2011), calculated sub-indices for each block, and made the maps. Areas with the highest socio-economic risks were identified on the Azov and the Black sea coast: Slavyansky, Krymsky, Krasnoarmeysky, Temryuksky and Primorsko-Akhtarsky municipal districts. On the third stage, the main purpose was to integrate and use both approaches in evaluation of socio-economic risks on micro-geographical level for different categories of the population and different industries (agriculture, utilities, etc.), using 'field' data. Field study was conducted in Slavyansky municipal district of Krasnodar region and included opinion polls, special interviews with businessmen and authorities, collection of municipal statistics and data from companies, etc. Vulnerability maps, speed evacuation maps, maps of possible locations of warning systems and maps of high insurance risks were developed. Proposals for improvement of legislation for coastal zones were prepared. The conducted research has shown the importance of both social ('vulnerability'), and economic ('damage') components of risk assessment. Using the previously discussed methods individually does not bring desired results because of deficiencies of Russian statistics. It is essential for accurate risk assessment to use an 'ensemble' of methods (statistical, field observations, etc.) on micro geographic level. The work has a practical importance for improving safety of local communities.

Morphometric analysis of the working zone for endoscopic lumbar discectomy.

PubMed

Min, Jun-Hong; Kang, Shin-Hyuk; Lee, Jang-Bo; Cho, Tai-Hyoung; Suh, Jung-Keun; Rhyu, Im-Joo

2005-04-01

Our study's purpose was to analyze the working zone for the current practice of endoscopic discectomy at the lateral exit zone of the intervertebral foramen (IVF) and to define a safe point for clinical practice. One hundred eighty-six nerve roots of the lumbar IVFs of cadaveric spines were studied. Upon lateral inspection, we measured the distance from the nerve root to the most dorsolateral margin of the disc and to the lateral edge of the superior articular process of the vertebra below at the plane of the superior endplate of the vertebra below. The angle between the root and the plane of the disc was also measured. The results showed that the mean distance from the nerve root to the most dorsolateral margin of the disc was 3.4 +/- 2.7 mm (range 0.0-10.8 mm), the mean distance from the nerve root to the lateral edge of the superior articular process of the vertebra below was 11.6 +/- 4.6 mm (range 4.1-24.3 mm), and the mean angle between the nerve root and the plane of the disc was 79.1 degrees +/- 7.6 degrees (range 56.0-90.0 degrees ). The values of the base of the working zone have a wide distribution. Blind puncture of annulus by the working cannula or obturator may be dangerous. The safer procedure would be the direct viewing of the annulus by endoscopy before annulotomy; the working cannula should be inserted into the foramen as close as possible to the facet joint.

Vadose zone transport field study: Detailed test plan for simulated leak tests

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

AL Ward; GW Gee

2000-06-23

The US Department of Energy (DOE) Groundwater/Vadose Zone Integration Project Science and Technology initiative was created in FY 1999 to reduce the uncertainty associated with vadose zone transport processes beneath waste sites at DOE's Hanford Site near Richland, Washington. This information is needed not only to evaluate the risks from transport, but also to support the adoption of measures for minimizing impacts to the groundwater and surrounding environment. The principal uncertainties in vadose zone transport are the current distribution of source contaminants and the natural heterogeneity of the soil in which the contaminants reside. Oversimplified conceptual models resulting from thesemore » uncertainties and limited use of hydrologic characterization and monitoring technologies have hampered the understanding contaminant migration through Hanford's vadose zone. Essential prerequisites for reducing vadose transport uncertainly include the development of accurate conceptual models and the development or adoption of monitoring techniques capable of delineating the current distributions of source contaminants and characterizing natural site heterogeneity. The Vadose Zone Transport Field Study (VZTFS) was conceived as part of the initiative to address the major uncertainties confronting vadose zone fate and transport predictions at the Hanford Site and to overcome the limitations of previous characterization attempts. Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is managing the VZTFS for DOE. The VZTFS will conduct field investigations that will improve the understanding of field-scale transport and lead to the development or identification of efficient and cost-effective characterization methods. Ideally, these methods will capture the extent of contaminant plumes using existing infrastructure (i.e., more than 1,300 steel-cased boreholes). The objectives of the VZTFS are to conduct controlled transport experiments at well-instrumented field sites at Hanford to: identify mechanisms controlling transport processes in soils typical of the hydrogeologic conditions of Hanford's waste disposal sites; reduce uncertainty in conceptual models; develop a detailed and accurate database of hydraulic and transport parameters for validation of three-dimensional numerical models; identify and evaluate advanced, cost-effective characterization methods with the potential to assess changing conditions in the vadose zone, particularly as surrogates of currently undetectable high-risk contaminants. This plan provides details for conducting field tests during FY 2000 to accomplish these objectives. Details of additional testing during FY 2001 and FY 2002 will be developed as part of the work planning process implemented by the Integration Project.« less

Personal sound zone reproduction with room reflections

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Olik, Marek

Loudspeaker-based sound systems, capable of a convincing reproduction of different audio streams to listeners in the same acoustic enclosure, are a convenient alternative to headphones. Such systems aim to generate "sound zones" in which target sound programmes are to be reproduced with minimum interference from any alternative programmes. This can be achieved with appropriate filtering of the source (loudspeaker) signals, so that the target sound's energy is directed to the chosen zone while being attenuated elsewhere. The existing methods are unable to produce the required sound energy ratio (acoustic contrast) between the zones with a small number of sources when strong room reflections are present. Optimization of parameters is therefore required for systems with practical limitations to improve their performance in reflective acoustic environments. One important parameter is positioning of sources with respect to the zones and room boundaries. The first contribution of this thesis is a comparison of the key sound zoning methods implemented on compact and distributed geometrical source arrangements. The study presents previously unpublished detailed evaluation and ranking of such arrangements for systems with a limited number of sources in a reflective acoustic environment similar to a domestic room. Motivated by the requirement to investigate the relationship between source positioning and performance in detail, the central contribution of this thesis is a study on optimizing source arrangements when strong individual room reflections occur. Small sound zone systems are studied analytically and numerically to reveal relationships between the geometry of source arrays and performance in terms of acoustic contrast and array effort (related to system efficiency). Three novel source position optimization techniques are proposed to increase the contrast, and geometrical means of reducing the effort are determined. Contrary to previously published case studies, this work presents a systematic examination of the key problem of first order reflections and proposes general optimization techniques, thus forming an important contribution. The remaining contribution considers evaluation and comparison of the proposed techniques with two alternative approaches to sound zone generation under reflective conditions: acoustic contrast control (ACC) combined with anechoic source optimization and sound power minimization (SPM). The study provides a ranking of the examined approaches which could serve as a guideline for method selection for rooms with strong individual reflections.

Study on ecological conservation planning of Xianyue Park in Xiamen City, China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Naizhong; Xi, Rong; Ren, Tingyan; Zhao, Peng; Chuai, Zeyao

2017-08-01

The paper discusses the current situation and existing problems of ecological restoration and tourist infrastructure development of Xiamen Xianyue Park located in Xiamen Island, China. Issues of ecosystem restoration and landscape improvement, restoring habitats, and ecosystem management system are analyzed. Options of further optimization of the tourist-targeted infrastructure are proposed, which take into account the ecological system and landscape pattern optimization, promotion of ecotourism, and implementation of the ecological management system. The particular solution envisages the park zoning with three primary zones (ecological protection, ecological buffer, and general activity zones) and five secondary ones (scenic landscape, ecotourism, religious activity, buildings and structures, and entertainment zones). By integrating the ecological principles into other land use objectives, taking full advantage of the park ecological and cultural heritage, and improving its ecological management, it is expected to provide the ecological restoration of the park under study and optimize its contribution to the regional economic and social development.

Multichannel imager for littoral zone characterization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Podobna, Yuliya; Schoonmaker, Jon; Dirbas, Joe; Sofianos, James; Boucher, Cynthia; Gilbert, Gary

2010-04-01

This paper describes an approach to utilize a multi-channel, multi-spectral electro-optic (EO) system for littoral zone characterization. Advanced Coherent Technologies, LLC (ACT) presents their EO sensor systems for the surf zone environmental assessment and potential surf zone target detection. Specifically, an approach is presented to determine a Surf Zone Index (SZI) from the multi-spectral EO sensor system. SZI provides a single quantitative value of the surf zone conditions delivering an immediate understanding of the area and an assessment as to how well an airborne optical system might perform in a mine countermeasures (MCM) operation. Utilizing consecutive frames of SZI images, ACT is able to measure variability over time. A surf zone nomograph, which incorporates targets, sensor, and environmental data, including the SZI to determine the environmental impact on system performance, is reviewed in this work. ACT's electro-optical multi-channel, multi-spectral imaging system and test results are presented and discussed.

Global positioning systems (GPS) and microtechnology sensors in team sports: a systematic review.

PubMed

Cummins, Cloe; Orr, Rhonda; O'Connor, Helen; West, Cameron

2013-10-01

Use of Global positioning system (GPS) technology in team sport permits measurement of player position, velocity, and movement patterns. GPS provides scope for better understanding of the specific and positional physiological demands of team sport and can be used to design training programs that adequately prepare athletes for competition with the aim of optimizing on-field performance. The objective of this study was to conduct a systematic review of the depth and scope of reported GPS and microtechnology measures used within individual sports in order to present the contemporary and emerging themes of GPS application within team sports. A systematic review of the application of GPS technology in team sports was conducted. We systematically searched electronic databases from earliest record to June 2012. Permutations of key words included GPS; male and female; age 12-50 years; able-bodied; and recreational to elite competitive team sports. The 35 manuscripts meeting the eligibility criteria included 1,276 participants (age 11.2-31.5 years; 95 % males; 53.8 % elite adult athletes). The majority of manuscripts reported on GPS use in various football codes: Australian football league (AFL; n = 8), soccer (n = 7), rugby union (n = 6), and rugby league (n = 6), with limited representation in other team sports: cricket (n = 3), hockey (n = 3), lacrosse (n = 1), and netball (n = 1). Of the included manuscripts, 34 (97 %) detailed work rate patterns such as distance, relative distance, speed, and accelerations, with only five (14.3 %) reporting on impact variables. Activity profiles characterizing positional play and competitive levels were also described. Work rate patterns were typically categorized into six speed zones, ranging from 0 to 36.0 km·h⁻¹, with descriptors ranging from walking to sprinting used to identify the type of activity mainly performed in each zone. With the exception of cricket, no standardized speed zones or definitions were observed within or between sports. Furthermore, speed zone criteria often varied widely within (e.g. zone 3 of AFL ranged from 7 to 16 km·h⁻¹) and between sports (e.g. zone 3 of soccer ranged from 3.0 to <13 km·h⁻¹ code). Activity descriptors for a zone also varied widely between sports (e.g. zone 4 definitions ranged from jog, run, high velocity, to high-intensity run). Most manuscripts focused on the demands of higher intensity efforts (running and sprint) required by players. Body loads and impacts, also summarized into six zones, showed small variations in descriptions, with zone criteria based upon grading systems provided by GPS manufacturers. This systematic review highlights that GPS technology has been used more often across a range of football codes than across other team sports. Work rate pattern activities are most often reported, whilst impact data, which require the use of microtechnology sensors such as accelerometers, are least reported. There is a lack of consistency in the definition of speed zones and activity descriptors, both within and across team sports, thus underscoring the difficulties encountered in meaningful comparisons of the physiological demands both within and between team sports. A consensus on definitions of speed zones and activity descriptors within sports would facilitate direct comparison of the demands within the same sport. Meta-analysis from systematic review would also be supported. Standardization of speed zones between sports may not be feasible due to disparities in work rate pattern activities.

Health Hazard Evaluation Report HETA 84-145-1604, Porter Memorial Hospital, Valparaiso, Indiana. [Anesthetic gases and ethylene oxide

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

Behrens, V.; Burroughs, G.E.; Crandall, M.

1985-07-01

Environmental and breathing-zone samples were analyzed for nitrous oxide, halogenated anesthetic gases, and ethylene-oxide at Porter Memorial Hospital, Valparaiso, Indiana in April, 1984. The evaluation was requested by the Indiana Occupational Safety and Health Administration to investigate the exposure of operating room personnel to anesthetic gases and central supply employees to ethylene-oxide. The authors conclude that some of the operating room personnel are overexposed to halogenated anesthetic gases and nitrous-oxide. Recommendations include performing better maintenance of the anesthesia equipment, improving the work practices of the anesthesiologists, and periodically checking the ethylene-oxide sterilizer system for leaks.

[On new screening biomarker to evaluate health state in personnel engaged into chemical weapons extinction].

PubMed

Voitenko, N G; Garniuk, V V; Prokofieva, D S; Gontcharov, N V

2015-01-01

The work was aimed to find new screeding parameters (biomarkers) for evaluation of health state of workers engaged into enterprises with hazardous work conditions, as exemplified by "Maradykovskyi" object of chemical weapons extinction. Analysis of 27 serum cytokines was conducted in donors and the object personnel with various work conditions. Findings are statistically significant increase of serum eotaxin in the personnel of "dirty" zone, who are regularly exposed to toxic agents in individual filter protective means over the working day. For screening detection of health disorders in the object personnel, the authors suggested new complex biomarker--ratio Eotaxin* IFNγ/TNFα that demonstrates 67.9% sensitivity and 87.5% specificity in differentiating the "dirty" zone personnel and other staffers.

Spatio-temporal Variations in Slow Earthquakes along the Mexican Subduction Zone

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ide, S.; Maury, J.; Cruz-Atienza, V. M.; Kostoglodov, V.

2017-12-01

Slow earthquakes in Mexico have been investigated independently in different areas. Here, we review differences in tremor behavior and slow slip events along the entire subduction zone to improve our understanding of its segmentation. Some similarities are observed between the Guerrero and Oaxaca areas. By combining our improved tremor detection capabilities with previous results, we suggest that there is no gap in tremor between Guerrero and Oaxaca. However some differences between Michoacan and Guerrero are seen (e.g., SSE magnitude, tremor zone width, tremor rate), suggesting that these two areas behave differently. Tremor initiation shows clear tidal sensitivity along the entire subduction zone. Tremor in Guerrero is sensitive to small tidal normal stress as well as shear stress suggesting the subduction plane may include local variations in dip. Estimation of the energy rate shows similar values along the subduction zone interface. The scaled tremor energy estimates are similar to those calculated in Nankai and Cascadia, suggesting a common mechanism. Along-strike differences in slow deformation may be related to variations in the subduction interface that yield different geometrical and temperature profiles.

Spatiotemporal Variations in Slow Earthquakes Along the Mexican Subduction Zone

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maury, J.; Ide, S.; Cruz-Atienza, V. M.; Kostoglodov, V.

2018-02-01

Slow earthquakes in Mexico have been investigated independently in different areas. Here we review differences in tremor behavior and slow slip events along the entire subduction zone to improve our understanding of its segmentation. Some similarities are observed between the Guerrero and Oaxaca areas. By combining our improved tremor detection capabilities with previous results, we suggest that there is no gap in tremor between Guerrero and Oaxaca. However, some differences between Michoacan and Guerrero are seen (e.g., SSE magnitude, tremor zone width, and tremor rate), suggesting that these two areas behave differently. Tremor initiation shows clear tidal sensitivity along the entire subduction zone. Tremor in Guerrero is sensitive to small tidal normal stress as well as shear stress, suggesting that the subduction plane may include local variations in dip. Estimation of the energy rate shows similar values along the subduction zone interface. The scaled tremor energy estimates are similar to those calculated in Nankai and Cascadia, suggesting a common mechanism. Along-strike differences in slow deformation may be related to variations in the subduction interface that yield different geometrical and temperature profiles.

Numerical Modelling of Rayleigh Wave Propagation in Course of Rapid Impulse Compaction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Herbut, Aneta; Rybak, Jarosław

2017-10-01

As the soil improvement technologies are the area of a rapid development, they require designing and implementing novel methods of control and calibration in order to ensure the safety of geotechnical works. At Wroclaw University of Science and Technology (Poland), these new methods are continually developed with the aim to provide the appropriate tools for the preliminary design of work process, as well as for the further ongoing on-site control of geotechnical works (steel sheet piling, pile driving or soil improvement technologies). The studies include preliminary numerical simulations and field tests concerning measurements and continuous histogram recording of shocks and vibrations and its ground-born dynamic impact on engineering structures. The impact of vibrations on reinforced concrete and masonry structures in the close proximity of the construction site may be destroying in both architectural and structural meaning. Those limits are juxtaposed in codes of practice, but always need an individual judgment. The results and observations make it possible to delineate specific modifications to the parameters of technology applied (e.g. hammer drop height). On the basis of numerous case studies of practical applications, already summarized and published, we were able to formulate the guidelines for work on the aforementioned sites. This work presents specific aspects of the active design (calibration of building site numerical model) by means of technology calibration, using the investigation of the impact of vibrations that occur during the Impulse Compaction on adjacent structures. A case study entails the impact of construction works on Rayleigh wave propagation in the zone of 100 m (radius) around the Compactor.

Economic valuation for sustainable development in the Swedish coastal zone.

PubMed

Söderqvist, Tore; Eggert, Håkan; Olsson, Björn; Soutukorva, Asa

2005-03-01

The Swedish coastal zone is a scene of conflicting interests about various goods and services provided by nature. Open-access conditions and the public nature of many services increase the difficulty in resolving these conflicts. "Sustainability" is a vague but widely accepted guideline for finding reasonable trade-offs between different interests. The UN view of sustainable development suggests that coastal zone management should aim at a sustainable ecological, economic, and social-cultural development. Looking closer at economic sustainability, it is observed that economic analyses about whether changes in society imply a gain or a loss should take into account the economic value of the environment. Methods used for making such economic valuation in the context of the Swedish coastal zone are briefly reviewed. It is noted that the property rights context matters for the results of a valuation study. This general background is followed by a concise presentation of the design and results of four valuation studies on Swedish coastal zone issues. One study is on the economic value of an improved bathing water quality in the Stockholm archipelago. The other studies are a travel cost study about the economic value of improved recreational fisheries in the Stockholm archipelago, a replacement cost study on the value of restoring habitats for sea trout, and a choice experiment study on the economic value of improved water quality along the Swedish westcoast.

EFFECT OF STRENGTHENING AT EXPECTED DAMAGING ZONE OF A RC MEMBER WITH DAMAGED ANCHORAGE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chijiwa, Nobuhiro; Kawanaka, Isao; Maekawa, Koichi

When a reinforced concrete member having cracks at the anchorage zones is loaded, diagonal crack is formed from the tip of the exsisting crack, and it lead s to brittle shaer failure. A reinforced concrete beam containing corrosion cracks at the anchorage zone were strengthened with sheets at the expected damaging zones, and tested in 3-point loading. Th e test result shows that the load capacity of the strengthened beam was the same to that of the repli cate beam with no damage at the anchorage zones and contained enough shear reinforcement to develop flexural failure. It means that strenghtneing at the expected damaging zone with keeping corrosion cr acks along to the tensile reinforcements at the anchorage zones may improve the load capacity of the damaged reinforced concrete.

Surface recrystallization theory of the wear of copper in liquid methane

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bill, R. C.; Wisander, D. W.

1974-01-01

Copper was subjected to sliding against 440C in liquid methane. The normal load range was from 1/4 to 2 kilograms, and the sliding velocity range was from 3.1 to 25 meters per second. Over this range of experimental parameters, the wear rate of the copper rider was found to be proportional to the sliding velocity squared and to the normal load. Transmission electron microscopy was used to study the dislocation structure in the copper very near the wear scar surface. It was found that near the wear scar surface, the microstructure was characterized by a fine-cell recrystallized zone in which individual dislocations could be distinguished in the cell walls. The interiors of the cells, about 0.5 micrometer in diameter, were nearly dislocation free. Below the recrystallized layer was a zone that was intensely cold worked by the friction process. With increasing depth, this intensely cold worked zone gradually became indistinguishable from the partially cold worked bulk of the copper, representative of the initial condition of the material.

Alternative Zoning Scenarios for Regional Sustainable Land Use Controls in China: A Knowledge-Based Multiobjective Optimisation Model

PubMed Central

Xia, Yin; Liu, Dianfeng; Liu, Yaolin; He, Jianhua; Hong, Xiaofeng

2014-01-01

Alternative land use zoning scenarios provide guidance for sustainable land use controls. This study focused on an ecologically vulnerable catchment on the Loess Plateau in China, proposed a novel land use zoning model, and generated alternative zoning solutions to satisfy the various requirements of land use stakeholders and managers. This model combined multiple zoning objectives, i.e., maximum zoning suitability, maximum planning compatibility and maximum spatial compactness, with land use constraints by using goal programming technique, and employed a modified simulated annealing algorithm to search for the optimal zoning solutions. The land use zoning knowledge was incorporated into the initialisation operator and neighbourhood selection strategy of the simulated annealing algorithm to improve its efficiency. The case study indicates that the model is both effective and robust. Five optimal zoning scenarios of the study area were helpful for satisfying the requirements of land use controls in loess hilly regions, e.g., land use intensification, agricultural protection and environmental conservation. PMID:25170679

Sub-25-nm laboratory x-ray microscopy using a compound Fresnel zone plate.

PubMed

von Hofsten, Olov; Bertilson, Michael; Reinspach, Julia; Holmberg, Anders; Hertz, Hans M; Vogt, Ulrich

2009-09-01

Improving the resolution in x-ray microscopes is of high priority to enable future applications in nanoscience. However, high-resolution zone-plate optics often have low efficiency, which makes implementation in laboratory microscopes difficult. We present a laboratory x-ray microscope based on a compound zone plate. The compound zone plate utilizes multiple diffraction orders to achieve high resolution while maintaining reasonable efficiency. We analyze the illumination conditions necessary for this type of optics in order to suppress stray light and demonstrate microscopic imaging resolving 25 nm features.

ELECTROMAGNETIC STIRRING IN ZONE REFINING

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

Braun, I.; Frank, F.C.; Marshall, S.

1958-02-01

The efficiency of the zone refining process can obviously be increased by stirring the molten zone to disperse the impurity-rich layer at the solid- liquid surface. Induction heating is sometimes preferred to radiant heat because it produces more convection, but no marked improvement has been reported. Pfann and Dorsi(1967) have described a method of stirring the melt by passing an electric current through the ingot and compressing a magnetic field across the molten zone. Preliminary results obtained by using a rotating magnetic field us the stirring agent during the purification of aluminum are described. (A.C.)