Modular electronics packaging system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hunter, Don J. (Inventor)

2001-01-01

A modular electronics packaging system includes multiple packaging slices that are mounted horizontally to a base structure. The slices interlock to provide added structural support. Each packaging slice includes a rigid and thermally conductive housing having four side walls that together form a cavity to house an electronic circuit. The chamber is enclosed on one end by an end wall, or web, that isolates the electronic circuit from a circuit in an adjacent packaging slice. The web also provides a thermal path between the electronic circuit and the base structure. Each slice also includes a mounting bracket that connects the packaging slice to the base structure. Four guide pins protrude from the slice into four corresponding receptacles in an adjacent slice. A locking element, such as a set screw, protrudes into each receptacle and interlocks with the corresponding guide pin. A conduit is formed in the slice to allow electrical connection to the electronic circuit.

49 CFR 236.304 - Mechanical locking or same protection effected by circuits.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Mechanical locking or same protection effected by..., AND APPLIANCES Interlocking Standards § 236.304 Mechanical locking or same protection effected by circuits. Mechanical locking, or the same protection effected by means of circuits, shall be provided. ...

49 CFR 236.308 - Mechanical or electric locking or electric circuits; requisites.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Mechanical or electric locking or electric..., AND APPLIANCES Interlocking Standards § 236.308 Mechanical or electric locking or electric circuits; requisites. Mechanical or electric locking or electric circuits shall be installed to prevent signals from...

Interlock system for machine protection of the KOMAC 100-MeV proton linac

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Song, Young-Gi

2015-02-01

The 100-MeV proton linear accelerator of the Korea Multi-purpose Accelerator Complex (KOMAC) has been developed. The beam service started this year after performing the beam commissioning. If the very sensitive and essential equipment is to be protected during machine operation, a machine interlock system is required, and the interlock system has been implemented. The purpose of the interlock system is to shut off the beam when the radio-frequency (RF) and ion source are unstable or a beam loss occurs. The interlock signal of the KOMAC linac includes a variety of sources, such as the beam loss, RF and high-voltage converter modulator faults, and fast closing valves of the vacuum window at the beam lines and so on. This system consists of a hardware-based interlock system using analog circuits and a software-based interlock system using an industrial programmable logic controller (PLC). The hardware-based interlock system has been fabricated, and the requirement has been satisfied with the results being within 10 µs. The software logic interlock system using the PLC has been connected to the framework of with the experimental physics and industrial control system (EPICS) to integrate a variety of interlock signals and to control the machine components when an interlock occurs. This paper will describe the design and the construction of the machine interlock system for the KOMAC 100-MeV linac.

Interlocked DNA nanostructures controlled by a reversible logic circuit.

PubMed

Li, Tao; Lohmann, Finn; Famulok, Michael

2014-09-17

DNA nanostructures constitute attractive devices for logic computing and nanomechanics. An emerging interest is to integrate these two fields and devise intelligent DNA nanorobots. Here we report a reversible logic circuit built on the programmable assembly of a double-stranded (ds) DNA [3]pseudocatenane that serves as a rigid scaffold to position two separate branched-out head-motifs, a bimolecular i-motif and a G-quadruplex. The G-quadruplex only forms when preceded by the assembly of the i-motif. The formation of the latter, in turn, requires acidic pH and unhindered mobility of the head-motif containing dsDNA nanorings with respect to the central ring to which they are interlocked, triggered by release oligodeoxynucleotides. We employ these features to convert the structural changes into Boolean operations with fluorescence labelling. The nanostructure behaves as a reversible logic circuit consisting of tandem YES and AND gates. Such reversible logic circuits integrated into functional nanodevices may guide future intelligent DNA nanorobots to manipulate cascade reactions in biological systems.

Interlocked DNA nanostructures controlled by a reversible logic circuit

PubMed Central

Li, Tao; Lohmann, Finn; Famulok, Michael

2014-01-01

DNA nanostructures constitute attractive devices for logic computing and nanomechanics. An emerging interest is to integrate these two fields and devise intelligent DNA nanorobots. Here we report a reversible logic circuit built on the programmable assembly of a double-stranded (ds) DNA [3]pseudocatenane that serves as a rigid scaffold to position two separate branched-out head-motifs, a bimolecular i-motif and a G-quadruplex. The G-quadruplex only forms when preceded by the assembly of the i-motif. The formation of the latter, in turn, requires acidic pH and unhindered mobility of the head-motif containing dsDNA nanorings with respect to the central ring to which they are interlocked, triggered by release oligodeoxynucleotides. We employ these features to convert the structural changes into Boolean operations with fluorescence labelling. The nanostructure behaves as a reversible logic circuit consisting of tandem YES and AND gates. Such reversible logic circuits integrated into functional nanodevices may guide future intelligent DNA nanorobots to manipulate cascade reactions in biological systems. PMID:25229207

46 CFR 129.380 - Overcurrent protection.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... protection must be provided for each ungrounded conductor, to open the electric circuit if the current reaches a value that causes an excessive or dangerous temperature in the conductor or its insulation. (b) Each conductor of a control, interlock, or indicator circuit, such as a conductor for an instrument...

Detection of trace cobalt ions in in vivo plant cells using a voltammetric interlocking system.

PubMed

Ly, Suw Young; Shin, Myoung Ho; Lee, Chang Hyun; Lee, Jin Hui; Kim, Mi Sook; Ji, Sang Woo; Park, Dong Won

2013-01-01

This experiment was conducted to establish a system for detecting trace cobalt ions in water and plant tissues using a voltammetric in vivo sensor. Cyclic and stripping voltammetry was devised from hand-made, macro-type implantable three-electrode systems. The results reached micro and nano working ranges at 100 sec accumulation time. The statistical detection limit (S/N) was attained at 6.0 ng L(-1). For the in vivo application, direct assay of cobalt ions was carried out in Eichhornia crassipes (EC) deep tissue in real time with a preconcentration time of 100 s. Interfaced techniques can be interlocked with other control systems.

Analysis of interlocking performances on non-oriented electrical steels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Li-Hsiang; Liu, Lee-Cheng

2018-05-01

In order to reduce energy loss in motor, applications of high-efficiency non-oriented electrical steel sheets and optimal laminating process are both important elements. The motor core loss deterioration is influenced by a number of factors, such as flux distribution, stress and strain, space harmonics, temperature, and short circuits between lamination. In conventional clamping method, steel sheets are laminated via interlocking or welding in general manner. The measured energy loss by welding was much larger than that by interlocking. Therefore, interlocking is well known and usually employed with benefit of easy conducting. The protuberance shapes affected the fastening strength. Generally, the intensity of rectangular type is stronger than the circular counterparts. However, the circular interlocking has better magnetic characteristics. To clarify the method effectiveness, interlocking performances regarding fastened strength and magnetic deterioration by lamination were investigated. The key parameters of protuberance shape and forming depth were designed. Precisely manufacturing operation was applied to avoid interlocking failure. Magnetic properties largely influenced by clamping method are crucial to minimizing the magnetic deterioration during laminating procedure. Several experiments for various processing conditions were undertaken, and the quantification results showed the rectangular interlocking had better fastened strength but worsened iron loss comparing with the circular arrangement. To acquire the comprehensive mechanical and electrical identities for electrical steel lamination, deliberate producing conditions regarding minimizing the magnetic deterioration should be adopted prudently.

CALUTRON CONTROL DEVICE

DOEpatents

Baldwin, L.W.

1959-08-25

Several interlock and control circuits for a calutron are described. In one of the arrangements, the ton source cooling water flow is interlocked with the current supply to the heaters assoctated with the charge chamber, arc chamber, and electrode structure. When the ion source coolant flow rate exceeds a predetermined level, the heater associated with the charge chamber is energized. After the charge chamber has reached a predetermined temperature, the arc chamber heater is energized. Thereafter, the electrode structure heater is energized and the ion source is ready to have the operating voltages applied.

49 CFR 236.766 - Locking, movable bridge.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Locking, movable bridge. 236.766 Section 236.766... Locking, movable bridge. The rail locks, bridge locks, bolt locks, circuit controllers, and electric locks used in providing interlocking protection at a movable bridge. ...

49 CFR 236.766 - Locking, movable bridge.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Locking, movable bridge. 236.766 Section 236.766... Locking, movable bridge. The rail locks, bridge locks, bolt locks, circuit controllers, and electric locks used in providing interlocking protection at a movable bridge. ...

Power connect safety and connection interlock

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rippel, Wally E. (Inventor)

1992-01-01

A power connect safety and connection interlock system is shown for use with inverters and other DC loads (16) which include capacitor filter banks (14) at their DC inputs. A safety circuit (20) operates a spring (26) biased, solenoid (22) driven mechanical connection interference (24) which prevents mating and therefore electrical connection between the power contactor halves (11, 13) of the main power contacts (12) until the capacitor bank is safely precharged through auxiliary contacts (18). When the DC load (16) is shut down, the capacitor bank (14) is automatically discharged through a discharging power resistor (66) by a MOSFET transistor (60) through a discharging power resistor (66) only when both the main power contacts and auxiliary contacts are disconnected.

Dynamically variable spot size laser system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gradl, Paul R. (Inventor); Hurst, John F. (Inventor); Middleton, James R. (Inventor)

2012-01-01

A Dynamically Variable Spot Size (DVSS) laser system for bonding metal components includes an elongated housing containing a light entry aperture coupled to a laser beam transmission cable and a light exit aperture. A plurality of lenses contained within the housing focus a laser beam from the light entry aperture through the light exit aperture. The lenses may be dynamically adjusted to vary the spot size of the laser. A plurality of interoperable safety devices, including a manually depressible interlock switch, an internal proximity sensor, a remotely operated potentiometer, a remotely activated toggle and a power supply interlock, prevent activation of the laser and DVSS laser system if each safety device does not provide a closed circuit. The remotely operated potentiometer also provides continuous variability in laser energy output.

The role of the medial prefrontal cortex in trace fear extinction

PubMed Central

Kwapis, Janine L.; Jarome, Timothy J.

2015-01-01

The extinction of delay fear conditioning relies on a neural circuit that has received much attention and is relatively well defined. Whether this established circuit also supports the extinction of more complex associations, however, is unclear. Trace fear conditioning is a better model of complex relational learning, yet the circuit that supports extinction of this memory has received very little attention. Recent research has indicated that trace fear extinction requires a different neural circuit than delay extinction; trace extinction requires the participation of the retrosplenial cortex, but not the amygdala, as noted in a previous study. Here, we tested the roles of the prelimbic and infralimbic regions of the medial prefrontal cortex in trace and delay fear extinction by blocking NMDA receptors during extinction learning. We found that the prelimbic cortex is necessary for trace, but not for delay fear extinction, whereas the infralimbic cortex is involved in both types of extinction. These results are consistent with the idea that trace fear associations require plasticity in multiple cortical areas for successful extinction. Further, the infralimbic cortex appears to play a role in extinction regardless of whether the animal was initially trained in trace or delay conditioning. Together, our results provide new information about how the neural circuits supporting trace and delay fear extinction differ. PMID:25512576

The Role of the Medial Prefrontal Cortex in Trace Fear Extinction

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kwapis, Janine L.; Jarome, Timothy J.; Helmstetter, Fred J.

2015-01-01

The extinction of delay fear conditioning relies on a neural circuit that has received much attention and is relatively well defined. Whether this established circuit also supports the extinction of more complex associations, however, is unclear. Trace fear conditioning is a better model of complex relational learning, yet the circuit that…

40 CFR Appendix E to Subpart B of... - The Standard for Automotive Refrigerant Recycling Equipment Intended for Use With Both CFC-12 and...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... liquid phase only. 4.2Seat Leakage Test 4.2.1 Valves, including electrically operated solenoid valves, that are used to isolate CFC-12 and HFC-134a refrigerant circuits, shall have a seat leakage rate not... Leakage Test shall be performed at 1.5 times this pressure at an ambient of 24 °C. 4.3Interlocks 4.3...

A miniature microcontroller curve tracing circuit for space flight testing transistors.

PubMed

Prokop, N; Greer, L; Krasowski, M; Flatico, J; Spina, D

2015-02-01

This paper describes a novel miniature microcontroller based curve tracing circuit, which was designed to monitor the environmental effects on Silicon Carbide Junction Field Effect Transistor (SiC JFET) device performance, while exposed to the low earth orbit environment onboard the International Space Station (ISS) as a resident experiment on the 7th Materials on the International Space Station Experiment (MISSE7). Specifically, the microcontroller circuit was designed to operate autonomously and was flown on the external structure of the ISS for over a year. This curve tracing circuit is capable of measuring current vs. voltage (I-V) characteristics of transistors and diodes. The circuit is current limited for low current devices and is specifically designed to test high temperature, high drain-to-source resistance SiC JFETs. The results of each I-V data set are transmitted serially to an external telemetered communication interface. This paper discusses the circuit architecture, its design, and presents example results.

Project W-320, 241-C-106 sluicing electrical calculations, Volume 2

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

Bailey, J.W.

1998-08-07

This supporting document has been prepared to make the FDNW calculations for Project W-320, readily retrievable. These calculations are required: To determine the power requirements needed to power electrical heat tracing segments contained within three manufactured insulated tubing assemblies; To verify thermal adequacy of tubing assembly selection by others; To size the heat tracing feeder and branch circuit conductors and conduits; To size protective circuit breaker and fuses; and To accomplish thermal design for two electrical heat tracing segments: One at C-106 tank riser 7 (CCTV) and one at the exhaust hatchway (condensate drain). Contents include: C-Farm electrical heat tracing;more » Cable ampacity, lighting, conduit fill and voltage drop; and Control circuit sizing and voltage drop analysis for the seismic shutdown system.« less

Copper circuit patterning on polymer using selective surface modification and electroless plating

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Sang Jin; Ko, Tae-Jun; Yoon, Juil; Moon, Myoung-Woon; Oh, Kyu Hwan; Han, Jun Hyun

2017-02-01

We have examined a potential new and simple method for patterning a copper circuit on PET substrate by copper electroless plating, without the pretreatment steps (i.e., sensitization and activation) for electroless plating as well as the etching processes of conventional circuit patterning. A patterned mask coated with a catalyst material, Ag, for the reduction of Cu ions, is placed on a PET substrate. Subsequent oxygen plasma treatment of the PET substrate covered with the mask promotes the selective generation of anisotropic pillar- or hair-like nanostructures coated with co-deposited nanoparticles of the catalyst material on PET. After oxygen plasma treatment, a Cu circuit is well formed just by dipping the plasma-treated PET into a Cu electroless plating solution. By increasing the oxygen gas pressure in the chamber, the height of the nanostructures increases and the Ag catalyst particles are coated on not only the top but also the side surfaces of the nanostructures. Strong mechanical interlocking between the Cu circuit and PET substrate is produced by the large surface area of the nanostructures, and enhances peel strength. Results indicate this new simple two step (plasma surface modification and pretreatment-free electroless plating) method can be used to produce a flexible Cu circuit with good adhesion.

Testing Services

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1993-01-01

Trace Laboratories is an independent testing laboratory specializing in testing printed circuit boards, automotive products and military hardware. Technical information from NASA Tech Briefs and two subsequent JPL Technical Support packages have assisted Trace in testing surface insulation resistance on printed circuit board materials. Testing time was reduced and customer service was improved because of Jet Propulsion Laboratory technical support packages.

Universal test system for system embedded optical interconnect

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pitwon, R.; Wang, K.; Immonen, M.; Schröder, H.; Neitz, M.

2018-02-01

We introduce a universal test and measurement system allowing comparative characterisation of optical transceivers, board-to-board optical connectors and both embedded and passive optical circuit boards. The system comprises a test enclosure with interlocking and interchangeable test cards, allowing different technologies spanning different Technology Readiness Levels to be both characterised alone and in combination with other technologies. They form part of the open test design standards portfolio developed on the FP7 PhoxTroT and H2020 COSMICC projects and allow testing on a common test platform.

Updating Procedures Can Reorganize the Neural Circuit Supporting a Fear Memory.

PubMed

Kwapis, Janine L; Jarome, Timothy J; Ferrara, Nicole C; Helmstetter, Fred J

2017-07-01

Established memories undergo a period of vulnerability following retrieval, a process termed 'reconsolidation.' Recent work has shown that the hypothetical process of reconsolidation is only triggered when new information is presented during retrieval, suggesting that this process may allow existing memories to be modified. Reconsolidation has received increasing attention as a possible therapeutic target for treating disorders that stem from traumatic memories, yet little is known about how this process changes the original memory. In particular, it is unknown whether reconsolidation can reorganize the neural circuit supporting an existing memory after that memory is modified with new information. Here, we show that trace fear memory undergoes a protein synthesis-dependent reconsolidation process following exposure to a single updating trial of delay conditioning. Further, this reconsolidation-dependent updating process appears to reorganize the neural circuit supporting the trace-trained memory, so that it better reflects the circuit supporting delay fear. Specifically, after a trace-to-delay update session, the amygdala is now required for extinction of the updated memory but the retrosplenial cortex is no longer required for retrieval. These results suggest that updating procedures could be used to force a complex, poorly defined memory circuit to rely on a better-defined neural circuit that may be more amenable to behavioral or pharmacological manipulation. This is the first evidence that exposure to new information can fundamentally reorganize the neural circuit supporting an existing memory.

SU-E-T-243: Design of a Novel Testing Port for Radiation Protection and Shielding Measurements

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

Tanny, S; Parsai, E; Harrell, D

2015-06-15

Purpose: The majority of radiation shielding research utilizes Monte Carlo simulation because of the difficulty in eliminating secondary radiations from measurements. We have designed a test port into a primary barrier of our newest vault to allow for shielding measurements while ensuring adequate protection to the public and staff during normal machine operation. This port allows for measurement of attenuation values of shielding materials, differential dose albedos, and radiation scatter fractions. Methods: The vault design utilized the maze as part of a compound primary barrier. The test port is contained within the maze and is centered along isocenter. The innermore » 30 cm has a 20×20 cm{sup 2} opening, while the remaining length has a 30×30 cm{sup 2} opening. The block that contains the port has a density of 200 pcf to minimize internal scatter. The 30×30 cm{sup 2} opening is occupied by removable 215 pcf concrete blocks. The innermost and outermost blocks activate an interlock wired into the beam-enable loop. This disallows beam-on in treatment mode if the interlock isn’t closed. The interlock can be overridden in service mode, or by-passed via an override switch in case of circuit failure. Results: The test port was installed in August. The beam is disabled when the interlock is tripped. Measurements taken when the primary beam is not incident on the port are indistinguishable from background. Ambient dose levels surrounding the vault with the designed shielding blocks in place are all within allowable limits for occupational workers. Conclusions: We have designed and installed a unique testing port for radiation protection and shielding measurements. This port is appropriately interlocked and designed to mitigate any risks of incidental exposure to staff or members of the public. The test port design allows measurements with “good geometry” and efficient removal of contaminating sources of radiation present in many shielding measurements. Daniel Harrell and Jim Noller are employees of Shielding Construction Solutions, Inc, the shielding construction company that built the vault discussed in this abstract. Manjit Chopra is an employee of Universal Minerals International, Inc, the company that provided the aggregates for the high density concretes used in the vault construction.« less

49 CFR 236.820 - Switch, interlocked.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Switch, interlocked. 236.820 Section 236.820 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to Transportation (Continued) FEDERAL RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION... Switch, interlocked. A switch within the interlocking limits the control of which is interlocked with...

49 CFR 236.820 - Switch, interlocked.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Switch, interlocked. 236.820 Section 236.820 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to Transportation (Continued) FEDERAL RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION... Switch, interlocked. A switch within the interlocking limits the control of which is interlocked with...

49 CFR 236.820 - Switch, interlocked.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Switch, interlocked. 236.820 Section 236.820 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to Transportation (Continued) FEDERAL RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION... Switch, interlocked. A switch within the interlocking limits the control of which is interlocked with...

49 CFR 236.820 - Switch, interlocked.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Switch, interlocked. 236.820 Section 236.820 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to Transportation (Continued) FEDERAL RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION... Switch, interlocked. A switch within the interlocking limits the control of which is interlocked with...

49 CFR 236.820 - Switch, interlocked.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Switch, interlocked. 236.820 Section 236.820 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to Transportation (Continued) FEDERAL RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION... Switch, interlocked. A switch within the interlocking limits the control of which is interlocked with...

Development and performance of power processor system for 2-gigahertz, 200-watt amplifier for communications technology satellite

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Siegert, C. E.; Gourash, F.; Vasicek, R. W.

1977-01-01

The electrical and environmental requirements for a power processor system (PPS) designed to supply the appropriate voltages and currents to a 200-watt traveling wave tube (TWT) for a communication technology satellite is described. A block diagram of the PPS, the interface requirements between the PPS and spacecraft, the interface requirements between the PPS and 200-watt TWT, and the environmental requirements of the PPS are presented. Also included are discussions of protection circuits, interlocking sequences, and transient requirements. Predictions of the flight performance, based on ground test data, are provided.

2. ENVIRONMENT, FROM SOUTHEAST, SHOWING B&P INTERLOCKING TOWER, AUXILIARY INTERLOCKING ...

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

2. ENVIRONMENT, FROM SOUTHEAST, SHOWING B&P INTERLOCKING TOWER, AUXILIARY INTERLOCKING BUILDING, AND POWER SUBSTATION - Baltimore & Potomac Interlocking Tower, Adjacent to AMTRAK railroad tracks in block bounded by Howard Street, Jones Falls Expressway, Maryland Avenue & Falls Road, Baltimore, Independent City, MD

Mapping sensory circuits by anterograde trans-synaptic transfer of recombinant rabies virus

PubMed Central

Zampieri, Niccolò; Jessell, Thomas M.; Murray, Andrew J.

2014-01-01

Summary Primary sensory neurons convey information from the external world to relay circuits within the central nervous system (CNS), but the identity and organization of the neurons that process incoming sensory information remains sketchy. Within the CNS viral tracing techniques that rely on retrograde trans-synaptic transfer provide a powerful tool for delineating circuit organization. Viral tracing of the circuits engaged by primary sensory neurons has, however, been hampered by the absence of a genetically tractable anterograde transfer system. In this study we demonstrate that rabies virus can infect sensory neurons in the somatosensory system, is subject to anterograde trans-synaptic transfer from primary sensory to spinal target neurons, and can delineate output connectivity with third-order neurons. Anterograde trans-synaptic transfer is a feature shared by other classes of primary sensory neurons, permitting the identification and potentially the manipulation of neural circuits processing sensory feedback within the mammalian CNS. PMID:24486087

Dynamic Polymorphic Reconfiguration to Effectively Cloak a Circuit’s Function

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-03-24

86 B . RSA Traces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89 2.1...56 22 SEMA of Separate Square and Multiply Trace with key (E B5) - RSA Version B ...56 23 Separate Square and Multiply Trace after signal processing - RSA Version B

Developing 300°C Ceramic Circuit Boards

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

Normann, Randy A

2015-02-15

This paper covers the development of a geothermal ceramic circuit board technology using 3D traces in a machinable ceramic. Test results showing the circuit board to be operational to at least 550°C. Discussion on producing this type of board is outlined along with areas needing improvement.

Attitudes toward mandatory ignition interlocks for all offenders convicted of driving while intoxicated.

PubMed

Downs, Jonathan; Shults, Ruth; West, Bethany

2017-12-01

Ignition interlocks are effective in reducing alcohol-impaired driving recidivism for all offenders, including first-time offenders. Despite their effectiveness, interlock use among persons convicted of driving while intoxicated from alcohol (DWI) remains low. This cross-sectional survey of U.S. adults assessed public support for requiring ignition interlocks for all convicted DWI offenders including first-time offenders. The goal was to update results from a similar 2010 survey in light of new state requirements and increased interlock installations. Questions were included in the Porter Novelli FallStyles survey, which was fielded from September 28 to October 16, 2015. Participants were the 3,536 individuals who provided an opinion toward requiring ignition interlocks for all offenders. For analyses, opinion toward requiring interlocks for all offenders was dichotomized into 'agree' and 'neutral/disagree.' To handle missing data, 10 imputed datasets were created and pooled using fully conditional specification (FCS). Fifty-nine percent of adults supported requiring interlocks for all DWI offenders. Multivariate analysis revealed that persons who did not report alcohol-impaired driving (AID) were 60% more likely to support requiring interlocks than those who reported AID. Having heard of interlocks also increased support. Support was generally consistent across demographic subgroups. Interlocks for all offenders have majority support nationwide in the current survey, consistent with previous reports. Support is lowest among those who have reported alcohol-impaired driving in the past 30days. These results suggest that communities with higher levels of alcohol-impaired driving may be more resistant to requiring ignition interlocks for all convicted DWI offenders. Future studies should examine this association further. Practical applications: These results indicate that the majority of adults recognize DWI as a problem and support requiring interlocks for all offenders. Copyright © 2017 National Safety Council and Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Wireless Sensing System Using Open-circuit, Electrically-conductive Spiral-trace Sensor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Woodard, Stanley E. (Inventor); Taylor, Bryant D. (Inventor)

2013-01-01

A wireless sensing system includes a sensor made from an electrical conductor shaped to form an open-circuit, electrically-conductive spiral trace having inductance and capacitance. In the presence of a time-varying magnetic field, the sensor resonates to generate a harmonic response having a frequency, amplitude and bandwidth. A magnetic field response recorder wirelessly transmits the time-varying magnetic field to the sensor and wirelessly detects the sensor's response frequency, amplitude and bandwidth.

Modified Hyperspheres Algorithm to Trace Homotopy Curves of Nonlinear Circuits Composed by Piecewise Linear Modelled Devices

PubMed Central

Vazquez-Leal, H.; Jimenez-Fernandez, V. M.; Benhammouda, B.; Filobello-Nino, U.; Sarmiento-Reyes, A.; Ramirez-Pinero, A.; Marin-Hernandez, A.; Huerta-Chua, J.

2014-01-01

We present a homotopy continuation method (HCM) for finding multiple operating points of nonlinear circuits composed of devices modelled by using piecewise linear (PWL) representations. We propose an adaptation of the modified spheres path tracking algorithm to trace the homotopy trajectories of PWL circuits. In order to assess the benefits of this proposal, four nonlinear circuits composed of piecewise linear modelled devices are analysed to determine their multiple operating points. The results show that HCM can find multiple solutions within a single homotopy trajectory. Furthermore, we take advantage of the fact that homotopy trajectories are PWL curves meant to replace the multidimensional interpolation and fine tuning stages of the path tracking algorithm with a simple and highly accurate procedure based on the parametric straight line equation. PMID:25184157

Visible rodent brain-wide networks at single-neuron resolution

PubMed Central

Yuan, Jing; Gong, Hui; Li, Anan; Li, Xiangning; Chen, Shangbin; Zeng, Shaoqun; Luo, Qingming

2015-01-01

There are some unsolvable fundamental questions, such as cell type classification, neural circuit tracing and neurovascular coupling, though great progresses are being made in neuroscience. Because of the structural features of neurons and neural circuits, the solution of these questions needs us to break through the current technology of neuroanatomy for acquiring the exactly fine morphology of neuron and vessels and tracing long-distant circuit at axonal resolution in the whole brain of mammals. Combined with fast-developing labeling techniques, efficient whole-brain optical imaging technology emerging at the right moment presents a huge potential in the structure and function research of specific-function neuron and neural circuit. In this review, we summarize brain-wide optical tomography techniques, review the progress on visible brain neuronal/vascular networks benefit from these novel techniques, and prospect the future technical development. PMID:26074784

Soft-Matter Printed Circuit Board with UV Laser Micropatterning.

PubMed

Lu, Tong; Markvicka, Eric J; Jin, Yichu; Majidi, Carmel

2017-07-05

When encapsulated in elastomer, micropatterned traces of Ga-based liquid metal (LM) can function as elastically deformable circuit wiring that provides mechanically robust electrical connectivity between solid-state elements (e.g., transistors, processors, and sensor nodes). However, LM-microelectronics integration is currently limited by challenges in rapid fabrication of LM circuits and the creation of vias between circuit terminals and the I/O pins of packaged electronics. In this study, we address both with a unique layup for soft-matter electronics in which traces of liquid-phase Ga-In eutectic (EGaIn) are patterned with UV laser micromachining (UVLM). The terminals of the elastomer-sealed LM circuit connect to the surface mounted chips through vertically aligned columns of EGaIn-coated Ag-Fe 2 O 3 microparticles that are embedded within an interfacial elastomer layer. The processing technique is compatible with conventional UVLM printed circuit board (PCB) prototyping and exploits the photophysical ablation of EGaIn on an elastomer substrate. Potential applications to wearable computing and biosensing are demonstrated with functional implementations in which soft-matter PCBs are populated with surface-mounted microelectronics.

Memories Are Made of This.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fox, Jeffrey L.

1983-01-01

Provides comments on research studies related to memory systems, considering those exploring the nature of memory traces. One researcher suggests that memory trace circuits are extremely localized (as opposed to being diffuse), such that a lesion in a rabbit's brain can completely destroy the trace for a particular learned response. (JN)

User's Guide for Computer Program that Routes Signal Traces

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hedgley, David R., Jr.

2000-01-01

This disk contains both a FORTRAN computer program and the corresponding user's guide that facilitates both its incorporation into your system and its utility. The computer program represents an efficient algorithm that routes signal traces on layers of a printed circuit with both through-pins and surface mounts. The computer program included is an implementation of the ideas presented in the theoretical paper titled "A Formal Algorithm for Routing Signal Traces on a Printed Circuit Board", NASA TP-3639 published in 1996. The computer program in the "connects" file can be read with a FORTRAN compiler and readily integrated into software unique to each particular environment where it might be used.

Algorithms and architecture for multiprocessor based circuit simulation

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

Deutsch, J.T.

Accurate electrical simulation is critical to the design of high performance integrated circuits. Logic simulators can verify function and give first-order timing information. Switch level simulators are more effective at dealing with charge sharing than standard logic simulators, but cannot provide accurate timing information or discover DC problems. Delay estimation techniques and cell level simulation can be used in constrained design methods, but must be tuned for each application, and circuit simulation must still be used to generate the cell models. None of these methods has the guaranteed accuracy that many circuit designers desire, and none can provide detailed waveformmore » information. Detailed electrical-level simulation can predict circuit performance if devices and parasitics are modeled accurately. However, the computational requirements of conventional circuit simulators make it impractical to simulate current large circuits. In this dissertation, the implementation of Iterated Timing Analysis (ITA), a relaxation-based technique for accurate circuit simulation, on a special-purpose multiprocessor is presented. The ITA method is an SOR-Newton, relaxation-based method which uses event-driven analysis and selective trace to exploit the temporal sparsity of the electrical network. Because event-driven selective trace techniques are employed, this algorithm lends itself to implementation on a data-driven computer.« less

49 CFR 236.807 - Signal, interlocking.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Signal, interlocking. 236.807 Section 236.807..., MAINTENANCE, AND REPAIR OF SIGNAL AND TRAIN CONTROL SYSTEMS, DEVICES, AND APPLIANCES Definitions § 236.807 Signal, interlocking. A roadway signal which governs movements into or within interlocking limits. ...

49 CFR 236.807 - Signal, interlocking.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Signal, interlocking. 236.807 Section 236.807..., MAINTENANCE, AND REPAIR OF SIGNAL AND TRAIN CONTROL SYSTEMS, DEVICES, AND APPLIANCES Definitions § 236.807 Signal, interlocking. A roadway signal which governs movements into or within interlocking limits. ...

49 CFR 236.807 - Signal, interlocking.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Signal, interlocking. 236.807 Section 236.807..., MAINTENANCE, AND REPAIR OF SIGNAL AND TRAIN CONTROL SYSTEMS, DEVICES, AND APPLIANCES Definitions § 236.807 Signal, interlocking. A roadway signal which governs movements into or within interlocking limits. ...

49 CFR 236.807 - Signal, interlocking.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Signal, interlocking. 236.807 Section 236.807..., MAINTENANCE, AND REPAIR OF SIGNAL AND TRAIN CONTROL SYSTEMS, DEVICES, AND APPLIANCES Definitions § 236.807 Signal, interlocking. A roadway signal which governs movements into or within interlocking limits. ...

49 CFR 236.807 - Signal, interlocking.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Signal, interlocking. 236.807 Section 236.807..., MAINTENANCE, AND REPAIR OF SIGNAL AND TRAIN CONTROL SYSTEMS, DEVICES, AND APPLIANCES Definitions § 236.807 Signal, interlocking. A roadway signal which governs movements into or within interlocking limits. ...

RF generator interlock by plasma grid bias current - An alternate to Hα interlock

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bandyopadhyay, M.; Gahlaut, A.; Yadav, R. K.; Pandya, K.; Tyagi, H.; Vupugalla, M.; Bhuyan, M.; Bhagora, J.; Chakraborty, A.

2017-08-01

ROBIN is inductively coupled plasma (ICP) based negative hydrogen ion source, operated with a 100kW, 1MHz Tetrode based RF generator (RFG). Inductive plasma ignition by the RFG in ROBIN is associated with electron seeding by a hot filament and a gas puff. RFG is triggered by the control system to deliver power just at the peak pressure of the gas puff. Once plasma is ignited due to proper impedance matching, a bright light, dominated by Hα (˜656nm wavelength) radiation is available inside RF driver which is used as a feedback signal to the RFG to continue its operation. If impedance matching is not correct, plasma is not produced due to lack of power coupling and bright light is not available. During such condition, reflected RF power may damage the RFG. Therefore, to protect the RFG, it needs to be switched off automatically within 200ms by the control system in such cases. This plasma light based RFG interlock is adopted from BATMAN ion source. However, in case of vacuum immersed RF ion source in reactor grade NBI system, such plasma light based interlock may not be feasible due to lack of adequate optical fiber interfaces. In reactor grade NBI system, neutron and gamma radiations have impact on materials which may lead to frequent maintenance and machine down time. The present demonstration of RFG interlock by Bias Current (BC) in ROBIN testbed gives an alternate option in this regard. In ROBIN, a bias plate (BP) is placed in the plasma chamber near the plasma grid (PG). BP is electrically connected to the plasma chamber wall of the ion source and PG is isolated from the wall. A high current ˜85 A direct current (DC) power supply of voltage in the range of 0 - 33V is connected between the PG and the BP in such a way that PG can be biased positively with respect to the BP or plasma chamber. This arrangement is actually made to absorb electrons and correspondingly reduce co-extracted electron current during beam extraction. However, in case of normal plasma operation, BC rises due to the presence of plasma electrons, almost in the same timescale as plasma light detection system and so, BC signal can also be used as RFG interlock. The BC signal transmission is through optical isolation to reduce noise interference with the signal. The response of the current monitoring signal available from the PG power supply of ROBIN is quite slow (in the order of few tens of milliseconds). Therefore, a fast response current detection electronic circuit having the ability to generate a PG current detection pulse with adjustable threshold set point has been developed and integrated with ROBIN, and the above concept has been demonstrated in ROBIN recently. The present paper will discuss this experimental activity and its results.

Development of ball surface acoustic wave trace moisture analyzer using burst waveform undersampling circuit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tsuji, Toshihiro; Oizumi, Toru; Fukushi, Hideyuki; Takeda, Nobuo; Akao, Shingo; Tsukahara, Yusuke; Yamanaka, Kazushi

2018-05-01

The measurement and control of trace moisture, where the water concentration is lower than 1 ppmv [-76.2 °C for the frost point (°CFP)], are essential for improving the yield rate of semiconductor devices and for ensuring their reliability. A ball surface acoustic wave (SAW) sensor with a sol-gel silica coating exhibited useful characteristics for a trace moisture analyzer (TMA) when the temperature drift of the delay time output was precisely compensated using two-frequency measurement (TFM), where the temperature-compensated relative delay time change (RDTC) was obtained by subtracting the RDTC at the fundamental frequency from that at the third harmonic frequency on an identical propagation path. However, the cost of the measurement circuit was a problem. In this study, a burst waveform undersampling (BUS) circuit based on the theory of undersampling measurement was developed as a practical means. The BUS circuit was useful for precise temperature compensation of the RDTC, and the ball SAW TMA was prototyped by calibrating the RDTC using a TMA based on cavity ring-down spectroscopy (CRDS), which is the most reliable method for trace moisture measurement. The ball SAW TMA outputted a similar concentration to that obtained by the CRDS TMA, and its response time at a set concentration in N2 with a flow rate of 1 l/min was about half that of the CRDS TMA, suggesting that moisture of -80 °CFP was measured within only 1 min. The detection limit at a signal-to-noise ratio of 3 was estimated to be 0.05 ppbv, comparable with that of the CRDS TMA. From these results, it was demonstrated that a practical ball SAW TMA can be realized using the developed BUS circuit.

21 CFR 876.4590 - Interlocking urethral sound.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Interlocking urethral sound. 876.4590 Section 876...) MEDICAL DEVICES GASTROENTEROLOGY-UROLOGY DEVICES Surgical Devices § 876.4590 Interlocking urethral sound. (a) Identification. An interlocking urethral sound is a device that consists of two metal sounds...

21 CFR 876.4590 - Interlocking urethral sound.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Interlocking urethral sound. 876.4590 Section 876...) MEDICAL DEVICES GASTROENTEROLOGY-UROLOGY DEVICES Surgical Devices § 876.4590 Interlocking urethral sound. (a) Identification. An interlocking urethral sound is a device that consists of two metal sounds...

21 CFR 876.4590 - Interlocking urethral sound.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Interlocking urethral sound. 876.4590 Section 876...) MEDICAL DEVICES GASTROENTEROLOGY-UROLOGY DEVICES Surgical Devices § 876.4590 Interlocking urethral sound. (a) Identification. An interlocking urethral sound is a device that consists of two metal sounds...

21 CFR 876.4590 - Interlocking urethral sound.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Interlocking urethral sound. 876.4590 Section 876...) MEDICAL DEVICES GASTROENTEROLOGY-UROLOGY DEVICES Surgical Devices § 876.4590 Interlocking urethral sound. (a) Identification. An interlocking urethral sound is a device that consists of two metal sounds...

21 CFR 876.4590 - Interlocking urethral sound.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Interlocking urethral sound. 876.4590 Section 876...) MEDICAL DEVICES GASTROENTEROLOGY-UROLOGY DEVICES Surgical Devices § 876.4590 Interlocking urethral sound. (a) Identification. An interlocking urethral sound is a device that consists of two metal sounds...

Tracing Activity Across the Whole Brain Neural Network with Optogenetic Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging

PubMed Central

Lee, Jin Hyung

2011-01-01

Despite the overwhelming need, there has been a relatively large gap in our ability to trace network level activity across the brain. The complex dense wiring of the brain makes it extremely challenging to understand cell-type specific activity and their communication beyond a few synapses. Recent development of the optogenetic functional magnetic resonance imaging (ofMRI) provides a new impetus for the study of brain circuits by enabling causal tracing of activities arising from defined cell types and firing patterns across the whole brain. Brain circuit elements can be selectively triggered based on their genetic identity, cell body location, and/or their axonal projection target with temporal precision while the resulting network response is monitored non-invasively with unprecedented spatial and temporal accuracy. With further studies including technological innovations to bring ofMRI to its full potential, ofMRI is expected to play an important role in our system-level understanding of the brain circuit mechanism. PMID:22046160

49 CFR 236.312 - Movable bridge, interlocking of signal appliances with bridge devices.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Movable bridge, interlocking of signal appliances with bridge devices. 236.312 Section 236.312 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to... SYSTEMS, DEVICES, AND APPLIANCES Interlocking Standards § 236.312 Movable bridge, interlocking of signal...

49 CFR 236.312 - Movable bridge, interlocking of signal appliances with bridge devices.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Movable bridge, interlocking of signal appliances with bridge devices. 236.312 Section 236.312 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to... SYSTEMS, DEVICES, AND APPLIANCES Interlocking Standards § 236.312 Movable bridge, interlocking of signal...

A Formal Algorithm for Routing Traces on a Printed Circuit Board

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hedgley, David R., Jr.

1996-01-01

This paper addresses the classical problem of printed circuit board routing: that is, the problem of automatic routing by a computer other than by brute force that causes the execution time to grow exponentially as a function of the complexity. Most of the present solutions are either inexpensive but not efficient and fast, or efficient and fast but very costly. Many solutions are proprietary, so not much is written or known about the actual algorithms upon which these solutions are based. This paper presents a formal algorithm for routing traces on a print- ed circuit board. The solution presented is very fast and efficient and for the first time speaks to the question eloquently by way of symbolic statements.

12 CFR 250.410 - Interlocking relationships between bank and its commingled investment account.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 3 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Interlocking relationships between bank and its... Section 32 of the Glass-Steagall Act § 250.410 Interlocking relationships between bank and its commingled... Banking Act of 1933 in view of the interlocking relationships that would exist between the bank and...

12 CFR 303.249 - Management official interlocks.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... interlock pursuant to the Depository Institutions Management Interlocks Act (12 U.S.C. 3207), section 13 of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1823(k)) and part 348 of this chapter (12 CFR part 348). (b) Where to file... 12 Banks and Banking 5 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Management official interlocks. 303.249 Section...

12 CFR 303.249 - Management official interlocks.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... interlock pursuant to the Depository Institutions Management Interlocks Act (12 U.S.C. 3207), section 13 of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1823(k)) and part 348 of this chapter (12 CFR part 348). (b) Where to file... 12 Banks and Banking 5 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Management official interlocks. 303.249 Section...

12 CFR 303.249 - Management official interlocks.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... interlock pursuant to the Depository Institutions Management Interlocks Act (12 U.S.C. 3207), section 13 of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1823(k)) and part 348 of this chapter (12 CFR part 348). (b) Where to file... 12 Banks and Banking 4 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Management official interlocks. 303.249 Section...

12 CFR 303.249 - Management official interlocks.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... interlock pursuant to the Depository Institutions Management Interlocks Act (12 U.S.C. 3207), section 13 of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1823(k)) and part 348 of this chapter (12 CFR part 348). (b) Where to file... 12 Banks and Banking 4 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Management official interlocks. 303.249 Section...

12 CFR 303.249 - Management official interlocks.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... interlock pursuant to the Depository Institutions Management Interlocks Act (12 U.S.C. 3207), section 13 of the FDI Act (12 U.S.C. 1823(k)) and part 348 of this chapter (12 CFR part 348). (b) Where to file... 12 Banks and Banking 5 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Management official interlocks. 303.249 Section...

12 CFR 250.410 - Interlocking relationships between bank and its commingled investment account.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 4 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Interlocking relationships between bank and its... Interpretations of Section 32 of the Glass-Steagall Act § 250.410 Interlocking relationships between bank and its... section 32 of the Banking Act of 1933 in view of the interlocking relationships that would exist between...

12 CFR 250.410 - Interlocking relationships between bank and its commingled investment account.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 3 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Interlocking relationships between bank and its... Section 32 of the Glass-Steagall Act § 250.410 Interlocking relationships between bank and its commingled... Banking Act of 1933 in view of the interlocking relationships that would exist between the bank and...

12 CFR 250.410 - Interlocking relationships between bank and its commingled investment account.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 4 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Interlocking relationships between bank and its... Interpretations of Section 32 of the Glass-Steagall Act § 250.410 Interlocking relationships between bank and its... section 32 of the Banking Act of 1933 in view of the interlocking relationships that would exist between...

12 CFR 250.410 - Interlocking relationships between bank and its commingled investment account.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 4 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Interlocking relationships between bank and its... Interpretations of Section 32 of the Glass-Steagall Act § 250.410 Interlocking relationships between bank and its... section 32 of the Banking Act of 1933 in view of the interlocking relationships that would exist between...

Slit Effect of Common Ground Patterns in Affecting Cross-Talk Noise between Two Parallel Signal Traces on Printed Circuit Boards

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maeno, Tsuyoshi; Sakurai, Yukihiko; Unou, Takanori; Ichikawa, Kouji; Fujiwara, Osamu

It is well-known that electromagnetic (EM) disturbances in vehicle-mounted radios are mainly caused by conducted noise currents flowing through wiring-harnesses from vehicle-mounted printed circuit boards (PCBs) with common ground patterns with slits. To evaluate the noise current outflows from the PCBs of this kind, we previously measured noise current outflows from four types of simple three-layer PCBs having two perpendicular signal traces and different ground patterns with/without slits, and showed that slits on a ground pattern allow conducted noise currents to flow out from PCBs, while the levels for the symmetric slits ground type are smaller compared to the case for two asymmetric slits ground types. In the present study, to further investigate the above finding, we fabricated six types of simple two-layer PCBs having two parallel signal traces and different ground patterns with/without slits, and measured the cross-talk noise between the traces. As a result, we found that the ground patterns with the slits perpendicular to the traces increase the cross-talk noise levels, which are larger by 19-42 dB than those for the ground pattern with no slits, while the ground patterns with the slits in parallel with the traces can suppress the noise levels, which are slightly smaller by 2.5-4.5 dB compared to the case for the no-slit ground pattern. These results were confirmed by the FDTD simulation, and were also qualitatively explained from an equivalent bridge circuit model we previously proposed.

Effects of Smoke on Functional Circuits

DTIC Science & Technology

1997-10-01

functional boards consisted of four layers ; that is, there were two pieces of FR-4* insulated circuit board material that were laminated together, each with...traces on both sides (three layers of dielectric in all). The layers were electrically connected by drilling holes into the circuit board and...allowing solder to flow through the holes and form "vias." For many of the circuits, one of the middle layers served as a ground plane, while the other

Hybrid stretchable circuits on silicone substrate

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

Robinson, A., E-mail: adam.1.robinson@nokia.com; Aziz, A., E-mail: a.aziz1@lancaster.ac.uk; Liu, Q.

When rigid and stretchable components are integrated onto a single elastic carrier substrate, large strain heterogeneities appear in the vicinity of the deformable-non-deformable interfaces. In this paper, we report on a generic approach to manufacture hybrid stretchable circuits where commercial electronic components can be mounted on a stretchable circuit board. Similar to printed circuit board development, the components are electrically bonded on the elastic substrate and interconnected with stretchable electrical traces. The substrate—a silicone matrix carrying concentric rigid disks—ensures both the circuit elasticity and the mechanical integrity of the most fragile materials.

Extinguishing trace fear engages the retrosplenial cortex rather than the amygdala

PubMed Central

Kwapis, Janine L.; Jarome, Timothy J.; Lee, Jonathan L.; Gilmartin, Marieke R.; Helmstetter, Fred J.

2013-01-01

Extinction learning underlies the treatment for a variety of anxiety disorders. Most of what is known about the neurobiology of extinction is based on standard “delay” fear conditioning, in which awareness is not required for learning. Little is known about how complex, explicit associations extinguish, however. “Trace” conditioning is considered to be a rodent model of explicit fear because it relies on both the cortex and hippocampus and requires explicit contingency awareness in humans. Here, we explore the neural circuit supporting trace fear extinction in order to better understand how complex memories extinguish. We first show that the amygdala is selectively involved in delay fear extinction; blocking intra-amygdala glutamate receptors disrupted delay, but not trace extinction. Further, ERK phosphorylation was increased in the amygdala after delay, but not trace extinction. We then identify the retrosplenial cortex (RSC) as a key structure supporting trace extinction. ERK phosphorylation was selectively increased in the RSC following trace extinction and blocking intra-RSC NMDA receptors impaired trace, but not delay extinction. These findings indicate that delay and trace extinction require different neural circuits; delay extinction requires plasticity in the amygdala whereas trace extinction requires the RSC. Anxiety disorders linked to explicit memory may therefore depend on cortical processes that have not been traditionally targeted by extinction studies based on delay fear. PMID:24055593

Comparative Study on the Cost of Building Public House Construction Using Red Brick and Interlock Brick Building Material in the City of Banda Aceh

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Malahayati, Nurul; Hayati, Yulia; Nursaniah, Cut; Firsa, T.; Fachrurrazi; Munandar, Aris

2018-05-01

Red brick and interlocking brick are the building materials that are often used for wall installation work on houses construction. In the development of building materials technology and cost savings, interlocking brick can be alternative to replace red bricks. In Aceh Province, the use of interlocking bricks is less popular compared to other big cities in Indonesia. Interlocking brick is made from a mixture of clay, concrete sand and compacted cement and one of the environmentally friendly materials because it does not burn the process like red brick material. It is named interlocking brick because the installation method is locked together and it serves as a structural and partition wall of residential buildings. The aims of this study are to compare the cost of building a house in Banda Aceh City using red brick and interlock brick building materials. The data were obtained from interviews and questionnaires distributed to respondents who had built houses in Banda Aceh City. The results concluded that the house construction cost using interlock brick offer lower construction cost at comparable quality rather than using red brick.

Advanced Containment System

DOEpatents

Kostelnik, Kevin M.; Kawamura, Hideki; Richardson, John G.; Noda, Masaru

2005-02-08

An advanced containment system for containing buried waste and associated leachate. The advanced containment system comprises a plurality of casing sections with each casing section interlocked to an adjacent casing section. Each casing section includes a complementary interlocking structure that interlocks with the complementary interlocking structure on an adjacent casing section. A barrier filler substantially fills the casing sections and may substantially fill the spaces of the complementary interlocking structure to form a substantially impermeable barrier. Some of the casing sections may include sensors so that the casing sections and the zone of interest may be remotely monitored after the casing sections are emplaced in the ground.

Gene Expression Profiling with Cre-Conditional Pseudorabies Virus Reveals a Subset of Midbrain Neurons That Participate in Reward Circuitry

PubMed Central

Pomeranz, Lisa E.; Ekstrand, Mats I.; Latcha, Kaamashri N.; Smith, Gregory A.; Enquist, Lynn W.

2017-01-01

The mesolimbic dopamine pathway receives inputs from numerous regions of the brain as part of a neural system that detects rewarding stimuli and coordinates a behavioral response. The capacity to simultaneously map and molecularly define the components of this complex multisynaptic circuit would thus advance our understanding of the determinants of motivated behavior. To accomplish this, we have constructed pseudorabies virus (PRV) strains in which viral propagation and fluorophore expression are activated only after exposure to Cre recombinase. Once activated in Cre-expressing neurons, the virus serially labels chains of presynaptic neurons. Dual injection of GFP and mCherry tracing viruses simultaneously illuminates nigrostriatal and mesolimbic circuitry and shows no overlap, demonstrating that PRV transmission is confined to synaptically connected neurons. To molecularly profile mesolimbic dopamine neurons and their presynaptic inputs, we injected Cre-conditional GFP virus into the NAc of (anti-GFP) nanobody-L10 transgenic mice and immunoprecipitated translating ribosomes from neurons infected after retrograde tracing. Analysis of purified RNA revealed an enrichment of transcripts expressed in neurons of the dorsal raphe nuclei and lateral hypothalamus that project to the mesolimbic dopamine circuit. These studies identify important inputs to the mesolimbic dopamine pathway and further show that PRV circuit-directed translating ribosome affinity purification can be broadly applied to identify molecularly defined neurons comprising complex, multisynaptic circuits. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The mesolimbic dopamine circuit integrates signals from key brain regions to detect and respond to rewarding stimuli. To further define this complex multisynaptic circuit, we constructed a panel of Cre recombinase-activated pseudorabies viruses (PRVs) that enabled retrograde tracing of neural inputs that terminate on Cre-expressing neurons. Using these viruses and Retro-TRAP (translating ribosome affinity purification), a previously reported molecular profiling method, we developed a novel technique that provides anatomic as well as molecular information about the neural components of polysynaptic circuits. We refer to this new method as PRV-Circuit-TRAP (PRV circuit-directed TRAP). Using it, we have identified major projections to the mesolimbic dopamine circuit from the lateral hypothalamus and dorsal raphe nucleus and defined a discrete subset of transcripts expressed in these projecting neurons, which will allow further characterization of this important pathway. Moreover, the method we report is general and can be applied to the study of other neural circuits. PMID:28283558

Circuit Architecture of VTA Dopamine Neurons Revealed by Systematic Input-Output Mapping.

PubMed

Beier, Kevin T; Steinberg, Elizabeth E; DeLoach, Katherine E; Xie, Stanley; Miyamichi, Kazunari; Schwarz, Lindsay; Gao, Xiaojing J; Kremer, Eric J; Malenka, Robert C; Luo, Liqun

2015-07-30

Dopamine (DA) neurons in the midbrain ventral tegmental area (VTA) integrate complex inputs to encode multiple signals that influence motivated behaviors via diverse projections. Here, we combine axon-initiated viral transduction with rabies-mediated trans-synaptic tracing and Cre-based cell-type-specific targeting to systematically map input-output relationships of VTA-DA neurons. We found that VTA-DA (and VTA-GABA) neurons receive excitatory, inhibitory, and modulatory input from diverse sources. VTA-DA neurons projecting to different forebrain regions exhibit specific biases in their input selection. VTA-DA neurons projecting to lateral and medial nucleus accumbens innervate largely non-overlapping striatal targets, with the latter also sending extensive extra-striatal axon collaterals. Using electrophysiology and behavior, we validated new circuits identified in our tracing studies, including a previously unappreciated top-down reinforcing circuit from anterior cortex to lateral nucleus accumbens via VTA-DA neurons. This study highlights the utility of our viral-genetic tracing strategies to elucidate the complex neural substrates that underlie motivated behaviors. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Coastal protection using topological interlocking blocks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pasternak, Elena; Dyskin, Arcady; Pattiaratchi, Charitha; Pelinovsky, Efim

2013-04-01

The coastal protection systems mainly rely on the self-weight of armour blocks to ensure its stability. We propose a system of interlocking armour blocks, which form plate-shape assemblies. The shape and the position of the blocks are chosen in such a way as to impose kinematic constraints that prevent the blocks from being removed from the assembly. The topological interlocking shapes include simple convex blocks such as platonic solids, the most practical being tetrahedra, cubes and octahedra. Another class of topological interlocking blocks is so-called osteomorphic blocks, which form plate-like assemblies tolerant to random block removal (almost 25% of blocks need to be removed for the assembly to loose integrity). Both classes require peripheral constraint, which can be provided either by the weight of the blocks or post-tensioned internal cables. The interlocking assemblies provide increased stability because lifting one block involves lifting (and bending) the whole assembly. We model the effect of interlocking by introducing an equivalent additional self-weight of the armour blocks. This additional self-weight is proportional to the critical pressure needed to cause bending of the interlocking assembly when it loses stability. Using beam approximation we find an equivalent stability coefficient for interlocking. It is found to be greater than the stability coefficient of a structure with similar blocks without interlocking. In the case when the peripheral constraint is provided by the weight of the blocks and for the slope angle of 45o, the effective stability coefficient for a structure of 100 blocks is 33% higher than the one for a similar structure without interlocking. Further increase in the stability coefficient can be reached by a specially constructed peripheral constraint system, for instance by using post-tension cables.

Program design for incentivizing ignition interlock installation for alcohol-impaired drivers: The Ontario approach.

PubMed

Ma, Tracey; Byrne, Patrick A; Bhatti, Junaid A; Elzohairy, Yoassry

2016-10-01

Drinking and driving is a major risk factor for traffic injuries. Although ignition interlocks reduce drinking and driving while installed, several issues undermine their implementation including delayed eligibility for installation, low installation once eligible, and a return to previous risk levels after de-installation. The Canadian province of Ontario introduced a "Reduced Suspension with Ignition Interlock Conduct Review" Program, significantly changing pre-existing interlock policy. The Program incentivizes interlock installation and an "early" guilty plea. It also attempts to reduce long-term recidivism through behavioural feedback and compliance-based removal. This evaluation is the first in assessing Program impact. Ontario drivers with a first time alcohol-impaired driving conviction between July 1, 2005 and November 25, 2014 comprised the study cohort. Longitudinal analyses, using interrupted time series and Cox regression, were conducted in which exposure was the Program and the outcomes were ignition interlock installation (N=30,200), pre-trial elapsed time (N=30,200), and post-interlock recidivism (N=9326). After Program implementation, installation rates increased by 54% and pre-trial elapsed time decreased by 146 days. Results suggest no effect on post-interlock recidivism. Through an incentive-based design, this Program was effective at addressing two commonly cited barriers to interlock implementation- delayed eligibility for installation and low installation once eligible. Results reveal that installation rates are responsive not only to incentivization but also to other external factors, thus presenting an opportunity for policy makers to find unique ways to influence interlock uptake, and thereby, to extend their deterrent effects to a larger subset of the population. This study is one of the few that do not rely on proxy measures of installation rate. Copyright © 2016 Crown. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Reduction Characteristics of FM-Band Cross-Talks between Two Parallel Signal Traces on Printed Circuit Boards for Vehicles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maeno, Tsuyoshi; Ueyama, Hiroya; Iida, Michihira; Fujiwara, Osamu

It is well known that electromagnetic disturbances in vehicle-mounted radios are mainly caused by conducted noise currents flowing through wiring-harnesses from vehicle-mounted printed circuit boards (PCBs) with common ground patterns with slits. To suppress the noise current outflows from the PCBs of this kind, we previously measured noise current outflows from simple two-layer PCBs having two parallel signal traces and different ground patterns with/without slits, which revealed that making slits with open ends on the ground patterns in parallel with the traces can reduce the conducted noise currents. In the present study, with the FDTD simulation, we investigated reduction characteristics of the FM-band cross-talk noise levels between two parallel signal traces for eighteen PCBs, which have different ground patterns with/without slits parallel to the traces and dielectric layers with different thickness. As a result, we found that the cross-talk reduction effect due to slits is obtained by 3.6-5.3dB, while the cross-talks between signal traces are reduced in inverse proportion to the square of the dielectric-layer thickness and in proportion to the square of the trace interval and, which can quantitatively be explained from an inductive coupling theory.

Administrative Reinstatement Interlock Programs: Florida, a 10-Year Study

PubMed Central

Voas, Robert B.; Tippetts, A. Scott; Grosz, Milton

2013-01-01

Background Interlocks reduce driving-under-the-influence (DUI) recidivism by 64%, but offenders resist installing them, preferring to risk driving while their driver’s licenses are revoked. One method of motivating offenders to install an interlock is require it for reinstatement of their driver’s license. This report updates an earlier evaluation of the administrative reinstatement interlock program (ARIP) procedure implemented in Florida in 2002. Method Driver records and interlock program records covering 120,000 DUI offenders were followed over 10 years. The flow through the sanction system—conviction, reinstatement, interlock program, and postinterlock period—is described. Logistical regression was used to identify the characteristics of offenders who installed interlocks, and survival analysis was used to evaluate the recidivism of offenders in the various stages in the ARIP. Results At any given time, approximately one third of the convicted offenders were serving their license-revocation periods. Half of the offenders who completed their revocation periods remain unqualified for reinstatement because they do not fulfill other requirements. ARIP offenders who do qualify for reinstatement and install interlocks have lower recidivism rates while the devices are on their vehicles. Conclusions After 10 years, Florida’s ARIP is a mature system that succeeds in forcing all offenders in the program who qualify for reinstatement to install an interlock for at least 6 months. However, half of all offenders who complete their mandatory revocation period are either unable to, or choose not to, qualify for reinstatement. PMID:23442206

Solution-Phase Dynamic Assembly of Permanently Interlocked Aryleneethynylene Cages through Alkyne Metathesis

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

Wang, Qi; Yu, Chao; Long, Hai

2015-05-08

Highly stable permanently interlocked aryleneethynylene molecular cages were synthesized from simple triyne monomers using dynamic alkyne metathesis. The interlocked complexes are predominantly formed in the reaction solution in the absence of any recognition motif and were isolated in a pure form using column chromatography. This study is the first example of the thermodynamically controlled solution-phase synthesis of interlocked organic cages with high stability.

Viral-genetic tracing of the input-output organization of a central noradrenaline circuit.

PubMed

Schwarz, Lindsay A; Miyamichi, Kazunari; Gao, Xiaojing J; Beier, Kevin T; Weissbourd, Brandon; DeLoach, Katherine E; Ren, Jing; Ibanes, Sandy; Malenka, Robert C; Kremer, Eric J; Luo, Liqun

2015-08-06

Deciphering how neural circuits are anatomically organized with regard to input and output is instrumental in understanding how the brain processes information. For example, locus coeruleus noradrenaline (also known as norepinephrine) (LC-NE) neurons receive input from and send output to broad regions of the brain and spinal cord, and regulate diverse functions including arousal, attention, mood and sensory gating. However, it is unclear how LC-NE neurons divide up their brain-wide projection patterns and whether different LC-NE neurons receive differential input. Here we developed a set of viral-genetic tools to quantitatively analyse the input-output relationship of neural circuits, and applied these tools to dissect the LC-NE circuit in mice. Rabies-virus-based input mapping indicated that LC-NE neurons receive convergent synaptic input from many regions previously identified as sending axons to the locus coeruleus, as well as from newly identified presynaptic partners, including cerebellar Purkinje cells. The 'tracing the relationship between input and output' method (or TRIO method) enables trans-synaptic input tracing from specific subsets of neurons based on their projection and cell type. We found that LC-NE neurons projecting to diverse output regions receive mostly similar input. Projection-based viral labelling revealed that LC-NE neurons projecting to one output region also project to all brain regions we examined. Thus, the LC-NE circuit overall integrates information from, and broadcasts to, many brain regions, consistent with its primary role in regulating brain states. At the same time, we uncovered several levels of specificity in certain LC-NE sub-circuits. These tools for mapping output architecture and input-output relationship are applicable to other neuronal circuits and organisms. More broadly, our viral-genetic approaches provide an efficient intersectional means to target neuronal populations based on cell type and projection pattern.

Requiring suspended drunk drivers to install alcohol interlocks to reinstate their licenses: effective?

PubMed Central

Voas, Robert B.; Tippetts, S. Scott; Fisher, Deborah; Grosz, Milton

2015-01-01

Aims To evaluate a new method being used by some states for motivating interlock installation by requiring it as a prerequisite to reinstatement of the driver’s license. Design The driving records of Florida DWI offenders convicted between July 2002 and June 2008 were analyzed to determine the proportion of offenders subject to the interlock requirement who installed interlocks. Setting Most driving-while-impaired (DWI) offenders succeed in avoiding state laws requiring the installation of a vehicle alcohol interlock. Participants A total of 82 318 Florida DWI offenders. Findings Due to long periods of complete suspension when no driving was permitted and the failure to complete all the requirements imposed by the court, only 21 377 of the 82 318 offenders studied qualified for reinstatement, but 93% of those who qualified did install interlocks to be reinstated. Conclusions Because of the lengthy license suspensions and other barriers that the offenders face in qualifying for reinstatement, it is not clear that requiring a period on the interlock as a prerequisite to reinstating will greatly increase the current installment rate. PMID:20528811

Method of installing subsurface barrier

DOEpatents

Nickelson, Reva A.; Richardson, John G.; Kostelnik, Kevin M.; Sloan, Paul A.

2007-10-09

Systems, components, and methods relating to subterranean containment barriers. Laterally adjacent tubular casings having male interlock structures and multiple female interlock structures defining recesses for receiving a male interlock structure are used to create subterranean barriers for containing and treating buried waste and its effluents. The multiple female interlock structures enable the barriers to be varied around subsurface objects and to form barrier sidewalls. The barrier may be used for treating and monitoring a zone of interest.

Subsurface materials management and containment system

DOEpatents

Nickelson, Reva A.; Richardson, John G.; Kosteinik, Kevin M.; Sloan, Paul A.

2004-07-06

Systems, components, and methods relating to subterranean containment barriers. Laterally adjacent tubular casings having male interlock structures and multiple female interlock structures defining recesses for receiving a male interlock structure are used to create subterranean barriers for containing and treating buried waste and its effluents. The multiple female interlock structures enable the barriers to be varied around subsurface objects and to form barrier sidewalls. The barrier may be used for treating and monitoring a zone of interest.

Subsurface materials management and containment system

DOEpatents

Nickelson, Reva A.; Richardson, John G.; Kostelnik, Kevin M.; Sloan, Paul A.

2006-10-17

Systems, components, and methods relating to subterranean containment barriers. Laterally adjacent tubular casings having male interlock structures and multiple female interlock structures defining recesses for receiving a male interlock structure are used to create subterranean barriers for containing and treating buried waste and its effluents. The multiple female interlock structures enable the barriers to be varied around subsurface objects and to form barrier sidewalls. The barrier may be used for treating and monitoring a zone of interest.

Factors influencing interlocking screw failure in unreamed small diameter nails--a biomechanical study using a distal tibia fracture model.

PubMed

Weninger, Patrick; Schueller, Michael; Jamek, Michael; Stanzl-Tschegg, Stefanie; Redl, Heinz; Tschegg, Elmar K

2009-05-01

Unreamed tibia nails with small diameters are increasingly used for fracture fixation. However, little is known about the fatigue strength of proximal and distal interlocking screws in those nails. To date, no data are available reporting on mechanical differences of solid compared to cannulated tibial nails. The aim of this study was to assess the fatigue strength of proximal and distal interlocking screws of solid and cannulated small diameter tibia nails. We created a distal tibia fracture model (AO/OTA 43 A3) using 16 Sawbones. After fracture stabilization with one of four different nail types (Expert Tibial Nail, VersaNail, T2 Tibial Nailing System, Connex), mechanical testing was performed in three loading series (40,000 cycles each) with incremental loads. Timing and type of interlocking screw failure were assessed. Interlocking screw failure was observed significantly earlier (after a mean interval of 57,042 cycles) in cannulated tibial nails (VersaNail, T2) compared to solid nails (after a mean interval of 88,415 cycles; P < 0.001). Proximal interlocking screw failure was recorded if oblique screws were used proximally (VersaNail, T2, Connex). No distal interlocking screw failure was recorded in the Connex nail. Two- and three-part fractures of proximal or distal interlocking screws were observed in all specimen. Proximal and distal interlocking screw failure has to be considered in small diameter nails in case of delayed fracture healing. To support our results, further experimental studies and clinical series are necessary.

8. VIEW, LOOKING NORTH, OF INTERLOCKING MACHINE WITH ORIGINAL MODEL ...

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

8. VIEW, LOOKING NORTH, OF INTERLOCKING MACHINE WITH ORIGINAL MODEL BOARD IN CENTER AND MODEL SEMAPHORE SIGNALS (AT TOP OF PHOTOGRAPH), THIRD FLOOR - South Station Tower No. 1 & Interlocking System, Dewey Square, Boston, Suffolk County, MA

Design of microcontroller based system for automation of streak camera.

PubMed

Joshi, M J; Upadhyay, J; Deshpande, P P; Sharma, M L; Navathe, C P

2010-08-01

A microcontroller based system has been developed for automation of the S-20 optical streak camera, which is used as a diagnostic tool to measure ultrafast light phenomenon. An 8 bit MCS family microcontroller is employed to generate all control signals for the streak camera. All biasing voltages required for various electrodes of the tubes are generated using dc-to-dc converters. A high voltage ramp signal is generated through a step generator unit followed by an integrator circuit and is applied to the camera's deflecting plates. The slope of the ramp can be changed by varying values of the capacitor and inductor. A programmable digital delay generator has been developed for synchronization of ramp signal with the optical signal. An independent hardwired interlock circuit has been developed for machine safety. A LABVIEW based graphical user interface has been developed which enables the user to program the settings of the camera and capture the image. The image is displayed with intensity profiles along horizontal and vertical axes. The streak camera was calibrated using nanosecond and femtosecond lasers.

Design of microcontroller based system for automation of streak camera

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

Joshi, M. J.; Upadhyay, J.; Deshpande, P. P.

2010-08-15

A microcontroller based system has been developed for automation of the S-20 optical streak camera, which is used as a diagnostic tool to measure ultrafast light phenomenon. An 8 bit MCS family microcontroller is employed to generate all control signals for the streak camera. All biasing voltages required for various electrodes of the tubes are generated using dc-to-dc converters. A high voltage ramp signal is generated through a step generator unit followed by an integrator circuit and is applied to the camera's deflecting plates. The slope of the ramp can be changed by varying values of the capacitor and inductor.more » A programmable digital delay generator has been developed for synchronization of ramp signal with the optical signal. An independent hardwired interlock circuit has been developed for machine safety. A LABVIEW based graphical user interface has been developed which enables the user to program the settings of the camera and capture the image. The image is displayed with intensity profiles along horizontal and vertical axes. The streak camera was calibrated using nanosecond and femtosecond lasers.« less

3-D printed 2.4 GHz rectifying antenna for wireless power transfer applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Skinner, Matthew

In this work, a 3D printed rectifying antenna that operates at the 2.4GHz WiFi band was designed and manufactured. The printed material did not have the same properties of bulk material, so the printed materials needed to be characterized. The antenna and rectifying circuit was printed out of Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) filament and a conductive silver paste, with electrical components integrated into the circuit. Before printing the full rectifying antenna, each component was printed and evaluated. The printed antenna operated at the desired frequency with a return loss of -16 dBm with a bandwidth of 70MHz. The radiation pattern was measured in an anechoic chamber with good matching to the model. The rectifying circuit was designed in Ansys Circuit Simulation using Schottky diodes to enable the circuit to operate at lower input power levels. Two rectifying circuits were manufactured, one by printing the conductive traces with silver ink, and one with traces made from copper. The printed silver ink is less conductive than the bulk copper and therefore the output voltage of the printed rectifier was lower than the copper circuit. The copper circuit had an efficiency of 60% at 0dBm and the printed silver circuit had an efficiency of 28.6% at 0dBm. The antenna and rectifying circuits were then connected to each other and the performance was compared to a fully printed integrated rectifying antenna. The rectifying antennas were placed in front of a horn antenna while changing the power levels at the antenna. The efficiency of the whole system was lower than the individual components but an efficiency of 11% at 10dBm was measured.

Method of sealing casings of subsurface materials management system

DOEpatents

Nickelson, Reva A.; Richardson, John G.; Kostelnik, Kevin M.; Sloan, Paul A.

2007-02-06

Systems, components, and methods relating to subterranean containment barriers. Laterally adjacent tubular casings having male interlock structures and multiple female interlock structures defining recesses for receiving a male interlock structure are used to create subterranean barriers for containing and treating buried waste and its effluents. The multiple female interlock structures enable the barriers to be varied around subsurface objects and to form barrier sidewalls. The barrier may be used for treating and monitoring a zone of interest.

An evaluation of Nova Scotia's alcohol ignition interlock program.

PubMed

Vanlaar, Ward G M; Mainegra Hing, Marisela; Robertson, Robyn D

2017-03-01

Alcohol ignition interlock programs for offenders aim to reduce recidivism among convicted drink drivers. This study presents an evaluation of Nova Scotia's interlock program implemented in 2008 in order to assess its effectiveness to reduce impaired driving and to help identify areas for improvement. Data used include conviction and crash records of individual participants; provincial monthly counts of alcohol-related charges, convictions and fatal and serious crashes; and interlock logged events. Methods used include descriptive statistics, survival analysis, time series and logistic regression analysis. With respect to specific deterrence (i.e., preventing recidivism) there was a 90% reduction in recidivism among voluntary participants since participation in the interlock program and a 79% reduction after these participants exited from the program. With respect to general deterrence (i.e., referring to a preventative effect on the entire population of drivers in Nova Scotia) there were temporary decreases in the numbers of alcohol-related charges (13.32%) and convictions (9.93%) and a small significant decrease in the number of fatal and serious injury alcohol-related crashes, following the implementation of the program. The evidence suggests the interlock program was better at preventing harm due to alcohol-impaired driving than the alternative of not using the interlock program. Recommendations were formulated supporting the continuation of the interlock program in Nova Scotia. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of the New Mexico ignition interlock program.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-11-01

This Evaluation of the New Mexico Ignition Interlock Program begins by summarizing the development of : alcohol ignition interlock devices, laws, and programs during the past 22 years. It then reviews the laws that : were written in New Mexico from 1...

1. ENVIRONMENT, FROM NORTHWEST, SHOWING B&P INTERLOCKING TOWER AND POWER ...

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

1. ENVIRONMENT, FROM NORTHWEST, SHOWING B&P INTERLOCKING TOWER AND POWER SUBSTATIONS - Baltimore & Potomac Interlocking Tower, Adjacent to AMTRAK railroad tracks in block bounded by Howard Street, Jones Falls Expressway, Maryland Avenue & Falls Road, Baltimore, Independent City, MD

49 CFR 236.772 - Machine, interlocking.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Machine, interlocking. 236.772 Section 236.772 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to Transportation (Continued) FEDERAL RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION... Machine, interlocking. An assemblage of manually operated levers or other devices for the control of...

49 CFR 236.772 - Machine, interlocking.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Machine, interlocking. 236.772 Section 236.772 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to Transportation (Continued) FEDERAL RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION... Machine, interlocking. An assemblage of manually operated levers or other devices for the control of...

Impact of State Ignition Interlock Laws on Alcohol-Involved Crash Deaths in the United States.

PubMed

Kaufman, Elinore J; Wiebe, Douglas J

2016-05-01

To investigate the impact on alcohol-involved crash deaths of universal ignition interlock requirements, which aim to prevent people convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol from driving while intoxicated. We used data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for 1999 to 2013. From 2004 to 2013, 18 states made interlocks mandatory for all drunk-driving convictions. We compared alcohol-involved crash deaths between 18 states with and 32 states without universal interlock requirements, accounting for state and year effects, and for clustering within states. Policy impact was apparent 3 years after implementation. The adjusted rate of alcohol-involved crash deaths was 4.7 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 4.0, 5.4) per 100,000 in states with the universal interlock requirement, compared with 5.5 (95% CI = 5.48, 5.53) in states without, an absolute reduction of 0.8 (95% CI = 0.1, 1.5) deaths per 100,000 per year. Requiring ignition interlocks for all drunk-driving convictions was associated with 15% fewer alcohol-involved crash deaths, compared with states with less-stringent requirements. Interlocks are a life-saving technology that merit wider use.

9. VIEW, LOOKING SOUTH, OF INTERLOCKING MACHINE, WITH ORIGINAL MODEL ...

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

9. VIEW, LOOKING SOUTH, OF INTERLOCKING MACHINE, WITH ORIGINAL MODEL BOARD IN CENTER, NEW MODEL BOARD AT LEFT AND MODEL SEMAPHORES AT TOP OF PHOTOGRAPH, THIRD FLOOR - South Station Tower No. 1 & Interlocking System, Dewey Square, Boston, Suffolk County, MA

Ignition interlocks reduce re-arrest rates of alcohol offenders

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2000-01-15

In a recent study of repeat offenders in Maryland, ignition interlocks reduced the risk of alcohol traffic violations by 64% during the first year they were required. In the second year, when interlocks could be removed, 3.5% of the remaining interlo...

Subsurface materials management and containment system, components thereof and methods relating thereto

DOEpatents

Nickelson, Reva A.; Richardson, John G.; Kostelnik, Kevin M.; Sloan, Paul A.

2006-04-18

Systems, components, and methods relating to subterranean containment barriers. Laterally adjacent tubular casings having male interlock structures and multiple female interlock structures defining recesses for receiving a male interlock structure are used to create subterranean barriers for containing and treating buried waste and its effluents. The multiple female interlock structures enable the barriers to be varied around subsurface objects and to form barrier sidewalls. The barrier may be used for treating and monitoring a zone of interest.

Size Effect of Ground Patterns on FM-Band Cross-Talks between Two Parallel Signal Traces of Printed Circuit Boards for Vehicles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iida, Michihira; Maeno, Tsuyoshi; Wang, Jianqing; Fujiwara, Osamu

Electromagnetic disturbances in vehicle-mounted radios are mainly caused by conducted noise currents flowing through wiring-harnesses from vehicle-mounted printed circuit boards (PCBs) with common slitting ground patterns. To suppress these kinds of noise currents, we previously measured them for simple two-layer PCBs with two parallel signal traces and slitting or non-slitting ground patterns, and then investigated by the FDTD simulation the reduction characteristics of the FM-band cross-talk noise levels between two parallel signal traces on six simple PCB models having different slitting ground or different divided ground patterns parallel to the traces. As a result, we found that the contributory factor for the FM-band cross-talk reduction is the reduction of mutual inductance between the two parallel traces, and also the noise currents from PCBs can rather be suppressed even if the size of the return ground becomes small. In this study, to investigate this finding, we further simulated the frequency characteristics of cross-talk reduction for additional six simple PCB models with different dividing dimensions ground patterns parallel to the traces, which revealed an interesting phenomenon that cross-talk reduction characteristics do not always decrease with increasing the width between the divided ground patterns.

The effects of closer monitoring on driver compliance with interlock restrictions.

PubMed

Zador, Paul L; Ahlin, Eileen M; Rauch, William J; Howard, Jan M; Duncan, G Doug

2011-11-01

This randomized controlled trial of 2168 DWI multiple offenders assigned to a state-wide ignition interlock program in Maryland compared non-compliance with interlock requirements among drivers who were closely monitored (by Westat staff) and drivers who received standard monitoring (by the Motor Vehicle Administration). Compliance comparisons relied on datalogger data from MVA's interlock providers plus driver records that contained demographic information, prior alcohol-related traffic violations, their dispositions, and interlock duration. Measures for quantifying non-compliance included rates per 1000 engine starts for initial breath test failures at varying BAC levels and time periods, retest failures, retest refusals, interlock disconnects, startup violations, and summation measures. Regression analysis estimated the effects of closer monitoring on non-compliance, using linear mixed models that included random driver effects and fixed effects for study-group assignment, prior alcohol-related traffic violations, and months of continuous datalogger data with a quadratic function that assessed changes and rates of change in interlock non-compliance over time. All the separate non-compliance rates and summary measures derived from them were lower for closer monitored than control drivers for continuous data series of at least 6, 12, or 24 months. The differences for initial test failures and the two summary measures were statistically significant. Most measures of non-compliance decreased significantly as continuous time on the interlock increased. Parallel trends in each study group indicated that drivers learned to improve their compliance over time. Thus, this study convincingly demonstrates that closer monitoring substantially enhanced compliance with requirements of the ignition interlock and that regardless of group assignment, compliance increased over time. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Ion chromatography in the manufacture of multilayer circuit boards

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smith, R. E.

1987-10-01

Ion chromatography (IC) has proven useful in analyzing chemical solutions used in the manufacture of multilayer circuit boards. IC provides results on ions not expected in the production solutions. Thus, solution contamination and breakdown products can be monitored in every phase of the circuit board manufacturing. During the first phase, epoxy laminates experience an etchback, first in chromic acid, which can be analyzed for trace chloride and sulfate, then in ammonium bifluoride/HCl, which can be analyzed for fluoride and chloride. Following a wet blasting to roughen up the surface, 20 mu in. of copper are deposited using an electroless bath. Again, IC is applicable for monitoring formate, tartarate, and sulfate levels. Next, an acid copper bath is used to electroplate the through holes with 0.001 in. of ductile copper. This bath is analyzed for trace chloride. Photoimaging is then performed, and the organic solvents used can be assayed for trace ionic chloride. Finally, a fluoroboric acid-based tin-lead bath is used to deposit a solderable alloy. This bath is analyzed for total fluoroborate, tin, and lead. In addition, mobile phase ion chromatography (MPIC) is used to monitor the nonionic organic brighteners in the baths.

Ion chromatography in the manufacture of multilayer circuit boards

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smith, Robert E.

1990-01-01

Ion chromatography (IC) has proven useful in analyzing chemical solutions used in the manufacture of multilayer circuit boards. Unlike other chemical quantification techniques, IC provides results on ions not expected in the production solutions. Thus, solution contamination and break-down products can be monitored in every phase of the circuit board manufacturing. During the first phase, epoxy laminates experience an etchback, first in chromic acid, which can be analyzed for trace chloride and sulfate, then in ammonium bifluoride/HCl, which can be analyzed for fluoride and chloride. Following a wet-blasting to roughen up the surface, 20 microinches of copper are deposited using an electroless bath. Again, IC is applicable for monitoring formate, tartarate, and sulfate levels. Next, an acid copper bath is used to electroplate the through holes with 0.001 inches of ductile copper. This bath is analyzed for trace chloride. Photoimaging is then performed, and the organic solvents used can be assayed for trace ionic chloride. Finally, a fluoroboric acid-based tin-lead bath is used to deposit a solderable alloy. This bath is analyzed for fluoroborate, tin, and lead. In addition, mobile phase ion chromatography (MPIC) is used to monitor the nonionic organic brighteners in the baths.

Mechanically interlocked gold and silver nanoparticles using metallosupramolecular catenane chemistry.

PubMed

Otter, Carl A; Patty, Philipus J; Williams, Martin A K; Waterland, Mark R; Telfer, Shane G

2011-03-01

We have employed the toolbox of metallosupramolecular chemistry to mechanically interlock gold and silver nanoparticles. A specifically designed PEGthiol-functionalized bis(phenanthroline)copper(I) complex acts to 'catenate' the nanoparticles. The interlocked assemblies were characterised by three complementary techniques: DLS, SERS and TEM.

49 CFR 236.340 - Electromechanical interlocking machine; locking between electrical and mechanical levers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Electromechanical interlocking machine; locking between electrical and mechanical levers. 236.340 Section 236.340 Transportation Other Regulations... Electromechanical interlocking machine; locking between electrical and mechanical levers. In electro-mechanical...

49 CFR 236.340 - Electromechanical interlocking machine; locking between electrical and mechanical levers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Electromechanical interlocking machine; locking between electrical and mechanical levers. 236.340 Section 236.340 Transportation Other Regulations... Electromechanical interlocking machine; locking between electrical and mechanical levers. In electro-mechanical...

49 CFR 236.340 - Electromechanical interlocking machine; locking between electrical and mechanical levers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Electromechanical interlocking machine; locking between electrical and mechanical levers. 236.340 Section 236.340 Transportation Other Regulations... Electromechanical interlocking machine; locking between electrical and mechanical levers. In electro-mechanical...

49 CFR 236.340 - Electromechanical interlocking machine; locking between electrical and mechanical levers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Electromechanical interlocking machine; locking between electrical and mechanical levers. 236.340 Section 236.340 Transportation Other Regulations... Electromechanical interlocking machine; locking between electrical and mechanical levers. In electro-mechanical...

49 CFR 236.340 - Electromechanical interlocking machine; locking between electrical and mechanical levers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... between electrical and mechanical levers. 236.340 Section 236.340 Transportation Other Regulations... Electromechanical interlocking machine; locking between electrical and mechanical levers. In electro-mechanical interlocking machine, locking between electric and mechanical levers shall be maintained so that mechanical...

Activity-Induced Remodeling of Olfactory Bulb Microcircuits Revealed by Monosynaptic Tracing

PubMed Central

Arenkiel, Benjamin R.; Hasegawa, Hiroshi; Yi, Jason J.; Larsen, Rylan S.; Wallace, Michael L.; Philpot, Benjamin D.; Wang, Fan; Ehlers, Michael D.

2011-01-01

The continued addition of new neurons to mature olfactory circuits represents a remarkable mode of cellular and structural brain plasticity. However, the anatomical configuration of newly established circuits, the types and numbers of neurons that form new synaptic connections, and the effect of sensory experience on synaptic connectivity in the olfactory bulb remain poorly understood. Using in vivo electroporation and monosynaptic tracing, we show that postnatal-born granule cells form synaptic connections with centrifugal inputs and mitral/tufted cells in the mouse olfactory bulb. In addition, newly born granule cells receive extensive input from local inhibitory short axon cells, a poorly understood cell population. The connectivity of short axon cells shows clustered organization, and their synaptic input onto newborn granule cells dramatically and selectively expands with odor stimulation. Our findings suggest that sensory experience promotes the synaptic integration of new neurons into cell type-specific olfactory circuits. PMID:22216277

Enhancing the Use of Vehicle Alcohol Interlocks With Emerging Technology.

PubMed

Voas, Robert B

2014-01-01

Among the earliest applications of health technologies to a safety program was the development of blood alcohol content (BAC) tests for use in impaired-driving enforcement. This led to the development of miniature, highly accurate devices that officers could carry in their pockets. A natural extension of this technology was the vehicle alcohol interlock, which is used to reduce recidivism among drivers convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) by requiring them to install the devices (which will not allow someone with a positive BAC to drive) on their vehicles. While on the vehicle, interlocks have been shown to reduce recidivism by two-thirds. Use of these devices has been growing at the rate of 10 to 15 percent a year, and there currently are more than 300,000 units in use. This expansion in the application of interlocks has benefited from the integration of other emerging technologies into interlock systems. Such technologies include data systems that record both driver actions and vehicle responses, miniature cameras and face recognition to identify the user, Wi-Fi systems to provide rapid reporting on offender performance and any attempt to circumvent the device, GPS tracking of the vehicle, and more rapid means for monitoring the integrity of the interlock system. This article describes how these health technologies are being applied in interlock programs and the outlook for new technologies and new court sanctioning programs that may influence the growth in the use of interlocks in the future.

Habitus, Social Fields, and Circuits in Rural Science Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brandt, Carol B.; Shumar, Wesley; Hammond, Lorie; Carlone, Heidi; Kimmel, Sue; Tschida, Christina

2010-01-01

Schooling and science education are embedded within larger socio-cultural, political and economic contexts, influenced by global flows of capital, labor, ideas, and images. In this article we consider the ways in which ethnography traces the web of interactions (circuits), in a rural community and the ways that science inquiry was associated with…

Electronic Device of Didactic and Electrometric Interest for the Study of RLC Circuits.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rodriguez, Angel L. Perez; And Others

1979-01-01

Presents a method of studying RLC circuits with the help of the oscilloscope in the XYZ mode, complemented by an electronic device which generates a marker-trace on the screen and which is used to measure frequencies without the need of a reference point on the screen. (Author/GA)

78 FR 59975 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Submission to OMB for Reinstatement, With Change, of a...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-09-30

... credit unions. The Interlocks Act generally prohibits financial institution management officials from... federally insured credit unions having a common management official with another type financial institution... comply with the Depository Institution Management Interlocks Act (Interlocks Act) and to determine...

30 CFR 75.819 - Motor-starter enclosures; barriers and interlocks.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Motor-starter enclosures; barriers and...-Voltage Distribution High-Voltage Longwalls § 75.819 Motor-starter enclosures; barriers and interlocks. Compartment separation and cover interlock switches for motor-starter enclosures must be maintained in...

Evaluation of state ignition interlock programs : interlock use analyses from 28 states, 2006–2011.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2015-05-01

In 2010, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and NHTSA began collaborating on a project to evaluate ignition interlock programs in selected States. The purpose of the evaluation was to provide information and best practices to States...

49 CFR 1242.58 - Operating signals and interlockers, operating drawbridges, highway crossing protection (accounts...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... drawbridges, highway crossing protection (accounts XX-51-59, XX-51-60 and XX-51-61). 1242.58 Section 1242.58... Operating signals and interlockers, operating drawbridges, highway crossing protection (accounts XX-51-59..., interlockers, drawbridges and highway crossings are located. ...

49 CFR 1242.58 - Operating signals and interlockers, operating drawbridges, highway crossing protection (accounts...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... drawbridges, highway crossing protection (accounts XX-51-59, XX-51-60 and XX-51-61). 1242.58 Section 1242.58... Operating signals and interlockers, operating drawbridges, highway crossing protection (accounts XX-51-59..., interlockers, drawbridges and highway crossings are located. ...

49 CFR 1242.58 - Operating signals and interlockers, operating drawbridges, highway crossing protection (accounts...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... drawbridges, highway crossing protection (accounts XX-51-59, XX-51-60 and XX-51-61). 1242.58 Section 1242.58... Operating signals and interlockers, operating drawbridges, highway crossing protection (accounts XX-51-59..., interlockers, drawbridges and highway crossings are located. ...

49 CFR 1242.58 - Operating signals and interlockers, operating drawbridges, highway crossing protection (accounts...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... drawbridges, highway crossing protection (accounts XX-51-59, XX-51-60 and XX-51-61). 1242.58 Section 1242.58... Operating signals and interlockers, operating drawbridges, highway crossing protection (accounts XX-51-59..., interlockers, drawbridges and highway crossings are located. ...

Ethylglucuronide in hair is a top predictor of impaired driving recidivism, alcohol dependence, and a key marker of the highest BAC interlock tests.

PubMed

Marques, Paul R; Tippetts, A Scott; Yegles, Michel

2014-01-01

This study focuses on the predictive and comparative significance of ethyl glucuronide measured in head hair (hEtG) for estimating risks associated with alcohol-impaired driving offenders. Earlier work compared different alcohol biomarkers for estimating rates of failed blood alcohol concentration (BAC) tests logged during 8 months of interlock participation. These analyses evaluate the comparative performance of several alcohol markers including hEtG and other markers, past driver records, and psychometric assessment predictors for the detection of 4 criteria: new driving under the influence (DUI) recidivism, alcohol dependence, and interlock record variables including fail rates and maximal interlock BACs logged. Drivers charged with alcohol impairment (DUI) in Alberta, Canada (n = 534; 64% first offenders, 36% multiple offenders) installed ignition interlock devices and consented to participate in research to evaluate blood-, hair-, and urine-derived alcohol biomarkers; sit for interviews; take psychometric assessments; and permit analyses of driving records and interlock log files. Subject variables included demographics, alcohol dependence at program entry, preprogram prior DUI convictions, postenrollment new DUI convictions, self-reported drinking assessments, morning and overall rates of failed interlock BAC tests, and maximal interlock BAC readings. Recidivism, dependence, high BAC, and combined fail rates were set as criteria; other variables were set as predictors. Area under the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve (A') estimates of sensitivity and specificity were calculated. Additional analyses were conducted on baseline hEtG levels. Driver performance and drinking indicators were evaluated against the standard hEtG cutoff for excessive drinking at (30 pg/mg) and a higher criterion of 50 pg/mg. HEtG splits were evaluated with the Mann-Whitney rank statistic. HEtG emerged as a top overall predictor for discriminating new recidivism events that occur after interlock installation, for entry alcohol dependence, and for the highest interlock BACs recorded. Together, hEtG and phosphatidylethanol (PEth) were the top predictors of all criterion measures. By contrast, the hair-derived alcohol biomarkers hEtG and hFAEE (fatty acid ethyl esters) were poorer than other alcohol biomarkers as detectors of interlock BAC test fail rates. This study showed that hEtG, an objective alternative to often unreliable self-reported past representation of drinking levels, yields crucial insight into driver alcohol-related risks early in an interlock program and is a top predictor of new recidivist events. Together with PEth, these markers would be excellent anchors in a panel for detecting alcohol consumption.

Functional design criteria for interim stabilization safety class 1 trip circuit

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

Larson, R.E., Westinghouse Hanford

1996-06-10

This Functional Design Criteria document outlines the basic requirements for the Safety Class 1 Trip Circuit. The objective of the Safety Class 1 Trip Circuit is to isolate the power circuitry to the Class 1 Division 2, Group B or lesser grade electrically fed loads located in the pump pit. The electrically fed load circuits need to have power isolated to them upon receipt of the following conditions, loss of flammable gases being released (above a predetermined threshold), and seismic(greater than 0.12g acceleration) activity. The two circuits requiring power isolation are the pump and heat trace power circuits. The Safetymore » Class 1 Trip Circuit will be used to support salt well pumping in SST`s containing potentially flammable gas-bearing / gas-producing radioactive waste.« less

FDTD Calculation of FM-Band Crosstalks between Perpendicular Traces on Printed Circuit Board with Ground-Pattern Slits

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ueyama, Hiroya; Maeno, Tsuyoshi; Hirata, Akimasa; Wang, Jianqing; Fujiwara, Osamu

Electromagnetic disturbances for vehicle-mounted radios are well known to be caused mainly by conduction noise currents flowing out wire harnesses from printed circuit boards (PCBs) having a common ground layer with slits. In this study, in order to investigate how ground-layer slits affect the above conduction noise currents, we paid FM band induced voltages or crosstalks on the trace connected to the wire harnesss, and simulated with the FDTD method the crosstalk levels between two traces perpendicularly fabricated on three kinds of simple PCBs with different ground-layer slits, which were compared with measurement in the frequency range from 10 MHz to 1 GHz. As a result, we could confirm that the FDTD calculation approximately agrees with the measured results, and also that the crosstalk levels do not always increase with the slit number, which can be reduced by the slit layout.

49 CFR 236.401 - Automatic block signal system and interlocking standards applicable to traffic control systems.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Automatic block signal system and interlocking standards applicable to traffic control systems. 236.401 Section 236.401 Transportation Other Regulations... block signal system and interlocking standards applicable to traffic control systems. The standards...

Interlocking oil: big oil ties with other corporations

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

McDonald, A.; Fritsch, A.J.

1974-01-01

There are 460 interlocking directorates and advisory committee connections of eighteen large oil companies with well-known large corporations. There are 132 interlocks with banks; 31 with insurance; 12 with utility companies; 15 with transportation corporations; 46 affiliations with educational institutions; and 224 with manufacturing and distribution corporations. (MCW)

18 CFR 131.31 - FERC Form No. 561, Annual report of interlocking positions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION, DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY APPROVED FORMS, FEDERAL POWER ACT AND PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES ACT OF 1978 FORMS § 131.31 FERC Form No. 561, Annual report of interlocking... the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's staff for the review and oversight of interlocking...

18 CFR 131.31 - FERC Form No. 561, Annual report of interlocking positions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION, DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY APPROVED FORMS, FEDERAL POWER ACT AND PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES ACT OF 1978 FORMS § 131.31 FERC Form No. 561, Annual report of interlocking... the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's staff for the review and oversight of interlocking...

18 CFR 131.31 - FERC Form No. 561, Annual report of interlocking positions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION, DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY APPROVED FORMS, FEDERAL POWER ACT AND PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES ACT OF 1978 FORMS § 131.31 FERC Form No. 561, Annual report of interlocking... the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's staff for the review and oversight of interlocking...

18 CFR 131.31 - FERC Form No. 561, Annual report of interlocking positions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION, DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY APPROVED FORMS, FEDERAL POWER ACT AND PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES ACT OF 1978 FORMS § 131.31 FERC Form No. 561, Annual report of interlocking... the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's staff for the review and oversight of interlocking...

Impact of State Ignition Interlock Laws on Alcohol-Involved Crash Deaths in the United States

PubMed Central

Wiebe, Douglas J.

2016-01-01

Objectives. To investigate the impact on alcohol-involved crash deaths of universal ignition interlock requirements, which aim to prevent people convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol from driving while intoxicated. Methods. We used data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for 1999 to 2013. From 2004 to 2013, 18 states made interlocks mandatory for all drunk-driving convictions. We compared alcohol-involved crash deaths between 18 states with and 32 states without universal interlock requirements, accounting for state and year effects, and for clustering within states. Results. Policy impact was apparent 3 years after implementation. The adjusted rate of alcohol-involved crash deaths was 4.7 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 4.0, 5.4) per 100 000 in states with the universal interlock requirement, compared with 5.5 (95% CI = 5.48, 5.53) in states without, an absolute reduction of 0.8 (95% CI = 0.1, 1.5) deaths per 100 000 per year. Conclusions. Requiring ignition interlocks for all drunk-driving convictions was associated with 15% fewer alcohol-involved crash deaths, compared with states with less-stringent requirements. Interlocks are a life-saving technology that merit wider use. PMID:26985604

A Note on the Effectiveness of the House-Arrest Alternative for Motivating DWI Offenders to Install Ignition Interlocks

PubMed Central

Roth, Richard; Marques, Paul R.; Voas, Robert B.

2009-01-01

Problem The effectiveness of ignition interlocks at reducing drunk driving has been limited by the ability of driving-while-intoxicated (DWI) offenders to avoid court orders to install the devices. Methods In a pilot program in New Mexico, four Santa Fe County judges imposed home confinement (via electronic monitoring bracelets) on offenders who claimed to have no car or no intention to drive. Interlock installation rates for Santa Fe County were compared with all other counties in New Mexico over a 2-year program and 2-year post-program period. Results During the two program years, 70% of the drivers convicted of DWI in Santa Fe County installed interlocks, compared to only 17% in the other counties, but when the program was terminated, the Santa Fe installation rate fell by 18.8 percentage points. Summary Mandating the alternative sanction of house arrest led to the highest reported interlock installation rate for DWI offenders. Impact on Industry Impaired driving is a substantial expense to employers, particularly when it bars driving that interferes with employment. Interlocks provide a method of protecting the public while permitting the offender to drive sober. This study was directed at increasing interlock use by DWI offenders. PMID:19945556

Spatial Control of Bacteria Using Screen Printing

PubMed Central

Moon, Soonhee; Fritz, Ian L.; Singer, Zakary S.

2016-01-01

Abstract Synthetic biology has led to advances in both our understanding and engineering of genetic circuits that affect spatial and temporal behaviors in living cells. A growing array of native and synthetic circuits such as oscillators, pattern generators, and cell–cell communication systems has been studied, which exhibit spatiotemporal properties. To better understand the design principles of these genetic circuits, there is a need for versatile and precise methods for patterning cell populations in various configurations. In this study, we develop a screen printing methodology to pattern bacteria on agar, glass, and paper surfaces. Initially, we tested three biocompatible resuspension media with appropriate rheological properties for screen printing. Using microscopy, we characterized the resolution and bleed of bacteria screen prints on agar and glass surfaces, obtaining resolutions as low as 188 μm. Next, we engineered bacterial strains producing visible chromoproteins analogous to the cyan, magenta, and yellow subtractive color system for the creation of multicolored bacteria images. Using this system, we printed distinct populations in overlapping or interlocking designs on both paper and agar substrates. These proof-of-principle experiments demonstrated how the screen printing method could be used to study microbial community interactions and pattern formation of biofilms at submillimeter length scales. Overall, our approach allows for rapid and precise prototyping of patterned bacteria species that will be useful in the understanding and engineering of spatiotemporal behaviors in microbial communities. PMID:29577061

Protecting Against Damage from Refraction of High Power Microwaves in the DIII-D Tokamak

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lohr, John; Brambila, Rigo; Cengher, Mirela; Chen, Xi; Gorelov, Yuri; Grosnickle, William; Moeller, Charles; Ponce, Dan; Prater, Ron; Torrezan, Antonio; Austin, Max; Doyle, Edward; Hu, Xing; Dormier, Calvin

2017-07-01

Several new protective systems are being installed on the DIII D tokamak to increase the safety margins for plasma operations with injected ECH power at densities approaching cutoff. Inadvertent overdense operation has previously resulted in reflection of an rf beam back into a launcher causing extensive arcing and melt damage on one waveguide line. Damage to microwave diagnostics, which are located on the same side of the tokamak as the ECH launchers, also has occurred. Developing a reliable microwave based interlock to protect the many vulnerable systems in DIII-D has proved to be difficult. Therefore, multiple protective steps have been taken to reduce the risk of damage in the future. Among these is a density interlock generated by the plasma control system, with setpoint determined by the ECH operators based on rf beam trajectories and plasma parameters. Also installed are enhanced video monitoring of the launchers, and an ambient light monitor on each of the waveguide systems, along with a Langmuir probe at the mouth of each launcher. Versatile rf monitors, measuring forward and reflected power in addition to the mode content of the rf beams, have been installed as the last miter bends in each waveguide line. As these systems are characterized, they are being incorporated in the interlock chains, which enable the ECH injection permits. The diagnostics most susceptible to damage from the ECH waves have also been fitted with a variety of protective devices including stripline filters, thin resonant notch filters tuned to the 110 GHz injected microwave frequency, blazed grating filters and shutters. Calculations of rf beam trajectories in the plasmas are performed using the TORAY ray tracing code with input from kinetic profile diagnostics. Using these calculations, strike points for refracted beams on the vacuum vessel are calculated, which allows evaluation of the risk of damage to sensitive diagnostics and hardware.

Protecting against damage from refraction of high power microwaves in the DIII-D tokamak

DOE PAGES

Lohr, John; Brambila, Rigo; Cengher, Mirela; ...

2017-07-24

Here, several new protective systems are being installed on the DIII D tokamak to increase the safety margins for plasma operations with injected ECH power at densities approaching cutoff. Inadvertent overdense operation has previously resulted in reflection of an rf beam back into a launcher causing extensive arcing and melt damage on one waveguide line. Damage to microwave diagnostics, which are located on the same side of the tokamak as the ECH launchers, also has occurred. Developing a reliable microwave based interlock to protect the many vulnerable systems in DIII-D has proved to be difficult. Therefore, multiple protective steps havemore » been taken to reduce the risk of damage in the future. Among these is a density interlock generated by the plasma control system, with setpoint determined by the ECH operators based on rf beam trajectories and plasma parameters. Also installed are enhanced video monitoring of the launchers, and an ambient light monitor on each of the waveguide systems, along with a Langmuir probe at the mouth of each launcher. Versatile rf monitors, measuring forward and reflected power in addition to the mode content of the rf beams, have been installed as the last miter bends in each waveguide line. As these systems are characterized, they are being incorporated in the interlock chains, which enable the ECH injection permits. The diagnostics most susceptible to damage from the ECH waves have also been fitted with a variety of protective devices including stripline filters, thin resonant notch filters tuned to the 110 GHz injected microwave frequency, blazed grating filters and shutters. Calculations of rf beam trajectories in the plasmas are performed using the TORAY ray tracing code with input from kinetic profile diagnostics. Using these calculations, strike points for refracted beams on the vacuum vessel are calculated, which allows evaluation of the risk of damage to sensitive diagnostics and hardware.« less

Protecting against damage from refraction of high power microwaves in the DIII-D tokamak

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

Lohr, John; Brambila, Rigo; Cengher, Mirela

Here, several new protective systems are being installed on the DIII D tokamak to increase the safety margins for plasma operations with injected ECH power at densities approaching cutoff. Inadvertent overdense operation has previously resulted in reflection of an rf beam back into a launcher causing extensive arcing and melt damage on one waveguide line. Damage to microwave diagnostics, which are located on the same side of the tokamak as the ECH launchers, also has occurred. Developing a reliable microwave based interlock to protect the many vulnerable systems in DIII-D has proved to be difficult. Therefore, multiple protective steps havemore » been taken to reduce the risk of damage in the future. Among these is a density interlock generated by the plasma control system, with setpoint determined by the ECH operators based on rf beam trajectories and plasma parameters. Also installed are enhanced video monitoring of the launchers, and an ambient light monitor on each of the waveguide systems, along with a Langmuir probe at the mouth of each launcher. Versatile rf monitors, measuring forward and reflected power in addition to the mode content of the rf beams, have been installed as the last miter bends in each waveguide line. As these systems are characterized, they are being incorporated in the interlock chains, which enable the ECH injection permits. The diagnostics most susceptible to damage from the ECH waves have also been fitted with a variety of protective devices including stripline filters, thin resonant notch filters tuned to the 110 GHz injected microwave frequency, blazed grating filters and shutters. Calculations of rf beam trajectories in the plasmas are performed using the TORAY ray tracing code with input from kinetic profile diagnostics. Using these calculations, strike points for refracted beams on the vacuum vessel are calculated, which allows evaluation of the risk of damage to sensitive diagnostics and hardware.« less

78 FR 52217 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Submission to OMB for Reinstatement, With Change, of a...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-08-22

... credit unions. The Interlocks Act generally prohibits financial institution management officials from... comply with the Depository Institution Management Interlocks Act (Interlocks Act) and to determine... types of financial institutions, not between two or more credit unions. 12 U.S.C. 3204(3). NCUA last...

21. Historic view looking northeast from tracks of Shell Interlocking ...

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

21. Historic view looking northeast from tracks of Shell Interlocking Tower after construction, 1909. Photographic copy of photograph published in Railway Age Gazette, February 4, 1910. - New York, New Haven, & Hartford Railroad, Shell Interlocking Tower, New Haven Milepost 16, approximately 100 feel east of New Rochelle Junction, New Rochelle, Westchester County, NY

Defining the safe current limit for opening ID photon shutter

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

Seletskiy, S.

The NSLS-II storage ring is protected from possible damage from insertion devices (IDs) synchrotron radiation by a dedicated active interlock system (AIS). It monitors electron beam position and angle and triggers beam drop if beam orbit exceeds the boundaries of pre-calculated active interlock envelope (AIE). The beamlines (BL) and beamline frontends (FE) are designed under assumption that the electron beam is interlocked within the AIE. For historic reasons the AIS engages the ID active interlock (AI-ID) at any non-zero beam current whenever the ID photon shutter (IDPS) is getting opened. Such arrangement creates major inconveniences for BLs commissioning. Apparently theremore » is some IDPS safe current limit (SCL) under which the IDPS can be opened without interlocking the e-beam. The goal of this paper is to find such limit.« less

Advances in Current Rating Techniques for Flexible Printed Circuits

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hayes, Ron

2014-01-01

Twist Capsule Assemblies are power transfer devices commonly used in spacecraft mechanisms that require electrical signals to be passed across a rotating interface. Flexible printed circuits (flex tapes, see Figure 2) are used to carry the electrical signals in these devices. Determining the current rating for a given trace (conductor) size can be challenging. Because of the thermal conditions present in this environment the most appropriate approach is to assume that the only means by which heat is removed from the trace is thru the conductor itself, so that when the flex tape is long the temperature rise in the trace can be extreme. While this technique represents a worst-case thermal situation that yields conservative current ratings, this conservatism may lead to overly cautious designs when not all traces are used at their full rated capacity. A better understanding of how individual traces behave when they are not all in use is the goal of this research. In the testing done in support of this paper, a representative flex tape used for a flight Solar Array Drive Assembly (SADA) application was tested by energizing individual traces (conductors in the tape) in a vacuum chamber and the temperatures of the tape measured using both fine-gauge thermocouples and infrared thermographic imaging. We find that traditional derating schemes used for bundles of wires do not apply for the configuration tested. We also determine that single active traces located in the center of a flex tape operate at lower temperatures than those on the outside edges.

Communities detection as a tool to assess a reform of the Italian interlocking directorship network

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Drago, Carlo; Ricciuti, Roberto

2017-01-01

Interlocking directorships are important communication channels among companies and may have anticompetitive effect. A corporate governance reform was introduced in 2011 to prevent interlocking directorships in the financial sector. We apply community detection techniques to the analysis of the networks in 2009 and 2012 to ascertain the effect of such reform on the Italian directorship network. We find that, although the number of interlocking directorships decreases in 2012, the reduction takes place mainly at the periphery of the network. The network core is stable, allowing the most connected companies to keep their strategic position.

Washington State's alcohol ignition interlock law: effects on recidivism among first-time DUI offenders.

PubMed

McCartt, Anne T; Leaf, William A; Farmer, Charles M; Eichelberger, Angela H

2013-01-01

To examine the effects of changes to Washington State's ignition interlock laws: moving issuance of interlock orders from courts to the driver licensing department in July 2003 and extending the interlock order requirement to first-time offenders with blood alcohol concentrations (BACs) below 0.15 percent ("first simple driving under the influence [DUI]") in June 2004. Trends in conviction types, interlock installation rates, and 2-year cumulative recidivism rates were examined for first-time convictions (simple, high-BAC, test refusal DUI; deferred prosecution; alcohol-related negligent driving) stemming from DUI arrests between January 1999 and June 2006. Regression analyses examined recidivism effects of the law changes and interlock installation rates. To examine general deterrent effects, trends in single-vehicle late-night crashes in Washington were compared with trends in California and Oregon. After the 2004 law change, the proportion of simple DUIs declined somewhat, though the proportion of negligent driving convictions (no interlock order requirement) continued an upward trend. Interlock installation rates for first simple DUIs were 3 to 6 percent in the year before the law change and one third after. Recidivism declined by an estimated 12 percent (e.g., expected 10.6% without law change vs. 9.3% among offenders arrested between April and June 2006, the last study quarter) among first simple DUI offenders and an estimated 11 percent (expected 10.2% vs. 9.1%) among all first-time offenders. There was an estimated 0.06 percentage point decrease in the recidivism rate for each percentage point increase in the proportion of first simple DUI offenders with interlocks. If installation rates had been 100 vs. 34 percent for first simple DUI offenders arrested between April and June 2006, and if the linear relationship between rates of recidivism and installations continued, recidivism could have been reduced from 9.3 to 5.3 percent. With installation rates of 100 vs. 24 percent for all first offenders, their recidivism rate could have fallen from 9.1 to 3.2 percent. Although installation rates increased somewhat after the 2003 law change, recidivism rates were not significantly affected, perhaps due to the short follow-up period before the 2004 law change. The 2004 law change was associated with an 8.3 percent reduction in single-vehicle late-night crash risk. Mandating interlock orders for all first DUI convictions was associated with reductions in recidivism, even with low interlock use rates, and reductions in crashes. Additional gains are likely achievable with higher rates. Jurisdictions should seek to increase use rates and reconsider permitting reductions in DUI charges to other traffic offenses without interlock order requirements.

Cyclic Behavior of Mortarless Brick Joints with Different Interlocking Shapes

PubMed Central

Liu, Hongjun; Liu, Peng; Lin, Kun; Zhao, Sai

2016-01-01

The framed structure infilled with a mortarless brick (MB) panel exhibits considerable in-plane energy dissipation because of the relative sliding between bricks and good out-of-plane stability resulting from the use of interlocking mechanisms. The cyclic behaviors of MB are investigated experimentally in this study. Two different types of bricks, namely non-interlocking mortarless brick (N-IMB) and interlocking mortarless brick (IMB), are examined experimentally. The cyclic behavior of all of the joints (N-IMB and IMB) are investigated in consideration of the effects of interlocking shapes, loading compression stress levels and loading cycles. The hysteretic loops of N-IMB and IMB joints are obtained, according to which a mechanical model is developed. The Mohr–Coulomb failure criterion is employed to describe the shear failure modes of all of the investigated joints. A typical frictional behavior is observed for the N-IMB joints, and a significant stiffening effect is observed for the IMB joints during their sliding stage. The friction coefficients of all of the researched joints increase with the augmentation of the compression stress level and improvement of the smoothness of the interlocking surfaces. An increase in the loading cycle results in a decrease in the friction coefficients of all of the joints. The degradation rate (DR) of the friction coefficients increases with the reduction in the smoothness of the interlocking surface. PMID:28773291

Ignition Interlock Laws: Effects on Fatal Motor Vehicle Crashes, 1982-2013.

PubMed

McGinty, Emma E; Tung, Gregory; Shulman-Laniel, Juliana; Hardy, Rose; Rutkow, Lainie; Frattaroli, Shannon; Vernick, Jon S

2017-04-01

Alcohol-involved motor vehicle crashes are a major cause of preventable mortality in the U.S., leading to more than 10,000 fatalities in 2013. Ignition interlocks, or alcohol-sensing devices connected to a vehicle's ignition to prevent it from starting if a driver has a predetermined blood alcohol content (BAC) level, are a promising avenue for preventing alcohol-involved driving. This study sought to assess the effects of laws requiring ignition interlocks for some or all drunk driving offenders on alcohol-involved fatal crashes. A multilevel modeling approach assessed the effects of state interlock laws on alcohol-involved fatal crashes in the U.S. from 1982 to 2013. Monthly data on alcohol-involved crashes in each of the 50 states was collected in 2014 from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Fatality Analysis Reporting System. Random-intercept models accounted for between-state variation in alcohol-involved fatal crash rates and autocorrelation of within-state crash rates over time. Analysis was conducted in 2015. State laws requiring interlocks for all drunk driving offenders were associated with a 7% decrease in the rate of BAC >0.08 fatal crashes and an 8% decrease in the rate of BAC ≥0.15 fatal crashes, translating into an estimated 1,250 prevented BAC >0.08 fatal crashes. Laws requiring interlocks for segments of high-risk drunk driving offenders, such as repeat offenders, may reduce alcohol-involved fatal crashes after 2 years of implementation. Ignition interlock laws reduce alcohol-involved fatal crashes. Increasing the spread of interlock laws that are mandatory for all offenders would have significant public health benefit. Copyright © 2016 American Journal of Preventive Medicine. All rights reserved.

Laser interlock system

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

Woodruff, Steven D; Mcintyre, Dustin L

2015-01-13

A method and device for providing a laser interlock having a first optical source, a first beam splitter, a second optical source, a detector, an interlock control system, and a means for producing dangerous optical energy. The first beam splitter is optically connected to the first optical source, the first detector and the second optical source. The detector is connected to the interlock control system. The interlock control system is connected to the means for producing dangerous optical energy and configured to terminate its optical energy production upon the detection of optical energy at the detector from the second opticalmore » source below a predetermined detector threshold. The second optical source produces an optical energy in response to optical energy from the first optical source. The optical energy from the second optical source has a different wavelength, polarization, modulation or combination thereof from the optical energy of the first optical source.« less

49 CFR 1242.17 - Signals and interlockers (accounts XX-17-19 and XX-18-19).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 49 Transportation 9 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Signals and interlockers (accounts XX-17-19 and XX... RAILROADS 1 Operating Expenses-Way and Structures § 1242.17 Signals and interlockers (accounts XX-17-19 and XX-18-19). Separate common expenses on the basis of the total train-hours in running service, and/or...

A Handbook for Automatic Data Processing Equipment Acquisition.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-12-01

Navy ADPE Procurement Policies (Automatic Data Processing Equipment (ADPE) procurement by federal agencies is governed by an interlocking network of...ADPE) procurement by federal agencies is governed by an interlocking network of policies and directives issued by federal agencies, the Department...SECNAVINST) and local procedures governing the acquisition of ADPE. Obtaining and understanding this interlocking network of policies is often difficult

Interlocking wettable ceramic tiles

DOEpatents

Tabereaux, Jr., Alton T.; Fredrickson, Guy L.; Groat, Eric; Mroz, Thomas; Ulicny, Alan; Walker, Mark F.

2005-03-08

An electrolytic cell for the reduction of aluminum having a layer of interlocking cathode tiles positioned on a cathode block. Each tile includes a main body and a vertical restraining member to prevent movement of the tiles away from the cathode block during operation of the cell. The anode of the electrolytic cell may be positioned about 1 inch from the interlocking cathode tiles.

Escalation of drug self-administration as a hallmark of persistent addiction liability

PubMed Central

Edwards, Scott; Koob, George F.

2013-01-01

Drug addiction is a progressive, relapsing disease comprised of interlocking stages of disordered motivation. Numerous animal models describing various stages of the addiction process have been developed over the past few decades, providing considerable advantages for the modeling of drug addiction compared with other complex psychiatric disease states. Escalation of drug self-administration has emerged as a widely accepted operant conditioning model of excessive drug intake. We further argue here that drug-escalated animals represent a comprehensive model of addiction according to the manifestations of behavioral neuroadaptations resulting directly or indirectly from excessive drug consumption. In particular, drug-escalated animals exhibit a host of symptoms in line with multiple Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders criteria for substance dependence, which can be summarized as an emergence of uncontrollable drug-taking and drug-seeking behaviors as a consequence of within-circuit and between-circuit neuroadaptations. Such a transition from impulsive drug sampling to compulsive intake represents a highly valid conceptualization of the addiction timeline in humans, and further investigation of persistent or near-permanent (e.g. epigenetic) neuroadaptations generated by operant drug intake escalation models will continue to provide mechanisms and therapeutic interventions for reversing the aberrant neuroplasticity underlying addiction. PMID:23839030

Interlocking Nailing Versus Interlocking Plating in Intra-articular Calcaneal Fractures: A Biomechanical Study.

PubMed

Reinhardt, Sophia; Martin, Heiner; Ulmar, Benjamin; Döbele, Stefan; Zwipp, Hans; Rammelt, Stefan; Richter, Martinus; Pompach, Martin; Mittlmeier, Thomas

2016-08-01

Open reduction and internal fixation with a plate is deemed to represent the gold standard of surgical treatment for displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures. Standard plate fixation is usually placed through an extended lateral approach with high risk for wound complications. Minimally invasive techniques might avoid wound complications but provide limited construct stability. Therefore, 2 different types of locking nails were developed to allow for minimally invasive technique with sufficient stability. The aim of this study was to quantify primary stability of minimally invasive calcaneal interlocking nail systems in comparison to a variable-angle interlocking plate. After quantitative CT analysis, a standardized Sanders type IIB fracture model was created in 21 fresh-frozen cadavers. For osteosynthesis, 2 different interlocking nail systems (C-Nail; Medin, Nov. Město n. Moravě, Czech Republic; Calcanail; FH Orthopedics SAS; Heimsbrunn, France) as well as a polyaxial interlocking plate (Rimbus; Intercus GmbH; Rudolstadt, Germany) were used. Biomechanical testing consisted of a dynamic load sequence (preload 20 N, 1000 N up to 2500 N, stepwise increase of 100 N every 100 cycles, 0.5 mm/s) and a load to failure sequence (max. load 5000 N, 0.5 mm/s). Interfragmentary movement was detected via a 3-D optical measurement system. Boehler angle was measured after osteosynthesis and after failure occurred. No significant difference regarding load to failure, stiffness, Boehler angle, or interfragmentary motion was found between the different fixation systems. A significant difference was found with the dynamic failure testing sequence where 87.5% of the Calcanail implants failed in contrast to 14% of the C-Nail group (P < .01) and 66% of the Rimbus plate. The highest load to failure was observed for the C-Nail. Boehler angle showed physiologic range with all implants before and after the biomechanical tests. Both minimally invasive interlocking nail systems displayed a high primary stability that was not inferior to an interlocking plate. Based on our results, both interlocking nails appear to represent a viable option for treating displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures. © The Author(s) 2016.

Effect of Ground Patterns Size on FM-Band Cross-Talks between Two Parallel Signal Traces of Printed Circuit Boards for Vehicles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iida, Michihira; Maeno, Tsuyoshi; Fujiwara, Osamu

It is well known that electromagnetic disturbances in vehicle-mounted radios are mainly caused by conducted noise currents flowing through wiring-harnesses from vehicle-mounted printed circuit boards (PCBs) with common ground patterns containing slits. To suppress the noise currents outflow from PCBs of these kinds, we previously measured noise currents outflow from simple two-layer PCBs having two parallel signal traces and different ground patterns with/without slits to reveal that making slits with open ends on the ground patterns in parallel with the traces can reduce the conducted noise currents. In the present study, with FDTD simulation, we investigated reduction effects of ground patterns size on the FM-band cross-talk noise levels between two parallel signal traces, by using four types of simple PCB models having different ground patterns formed in different numbers but containing the same planar dimension slits parallel to the traces, in addition to two types of PCB models with different ground patterns divided into two parts parallel to the traces. As a result, we found that the cross-talk noise currents for the above six types of PCBs decrease by 6.9-8.5dB compared to the PCB which has a plain ground with no slits. From this study, we got the finding that the contributing factor for the above mentioned cross-talk reduction relies on the reduction of mutual inductance between the two parallel traces. In addition, in case of this study, it is interesting to note that the noise currents outflow from PCBs can rather be suppressed when the size of the return ground of each signal trace is small.

An essential memory trace found.

PubMed

Thompson, Richard F

2013-10-01

I argue here that we have succeeded in localizing an essential memory trace for a basic form of associative learning and memory--classical conditioning of discrete responses learned with an aversive stimulus--to the anterior interpositus nucleus of the cerebellum. We first identified the entire essential circuit, using eyelid conditioning as the model system, and used reversible inactivation, during training, of critical structures and pathways to localize definitively the essential memory trace. In recognition of the 30th anniversary of Behavioral Neuroscience, I highlight 1 paper (Tracy, Thompson, Krupa, & Thompson, 1998) that was particularly significant for the progress of this research program. In this review, I present definitive evidence that the essential memory trace for eyelid conditioning is localized to the cerebellum and to no other part of the essential circuit, using electrical stimulation of the pontine nuclei-mossy fibers projecting to the cerebellum as the conditional stimulus (CS; it proved to be a supernormal stimulus resulting in much faster learning than with any peripheral CS) and using an electrical stimulus to the output of the cerebellum as a test, which did not change. Pontine patterns of projection to the cerebellum were confirmed with retrograde labeling techniques. 2013 APA, all rights reserved

Ferrocene-containing non-interlocked molecular machines.

PubMed

Scottwell, Synøve Ø; Crowley, James D

2016-02-11

Ferrocene is the prototypical organometallic sandwich complex and despite over 60 years passing since the discovery and elucidation of ferrocene's structure, research into ferrocene-containing compounds continues to grow as potential new applications in catalysis, biology and the material sciences are found. Ferrocene is chemically robust and readily functionalized which enables its facile incorporation into more complex molecular systems. This coupled with ferrocene's reversible redox properties and ability function as a "molecular ball bearing" has led to the use of ferrocene as a component in wide range of interlocked and non-interlocked synthetic molecular machine systems. This review will focus on the exploitation of ferrocene (and related sandwich complexes) for the development of non-interlocked synthetic molecular machines.

Novel Integrated System Architecture for an Autonomous Jumping Micro-Robot

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-01-01

traces Figure 45 Solder joints made directly to FET and capacitor before assembling circuit on hexapod Figure 46 Metal pads attached to...energetic chip using Loctite Figure 47 Circuit connected to oxidized nanoporous Si by soldering to pads on the substrate Figure 48 Capacitor discharge...thermal, shape memory alloy (SMA), piezoelectric , magnetic, etc. Each actuator has a unique set of characteristics, which include operating

Bioinspired Superdurable Pestle‐Loop Mechanical Interlocker with Tunable Peeling Force, Strong Shear Adhesion, and Low Noise

PubMed Central

Jiao, Junrong; Zhang, Feilong; Jiao, Tian; Gu, Zhen

2018-01-01

Abstract Velcro, the most typical hook‐loop interlocker, often suffers from undesirable deformation, breaking, and noise because of the structure of the hook. Inspired by the arrester system of dragonfly, a new mechanical interlocker with a nylon pestle instead of the traditional hook is developed. The pestle‐loop mechanical interlocker shows a tunable peeling force from 0.4 ± 0.14 to 6.5 ± 0.72 N and the shear adhesion force of pestle‐loop mechanical interlocker is about twice as much as that of velcro. The pestle tape can be separated and fastened with the loop tape up to 30 000 cycles while keeping the original adhesive force and the pestle structure. In comparison, only after 4000 cycles most hooks of the commercial velcro are deformed and even broken, completely losing their adhesive function and their hook structure. These experimental results are further supported by finite element simulitions—the base of pestle mainly bears the separation‐caused strain while the middle of hook does. Notably, the sound volume during the separation of pestle‐loop mechanical interlocker is merely 49 ± 7.4 dB, much lower than 70 ± 3.5 dB produced by the velcro. PMID:29721425

Outcome of intramedullary interlocking SIGN nail in tibial diaphyseal fracture.

PubMed

Khan, Irfanullah; Javed, Shahzad; Khan, Gauhar Nawaz; Aziz, Amer

2013-03-01

To determine the outcome of intramedullary interlocking surgical implant generation network (SIGN) nail in diaphyseal tibial fractures in terms of union and failure of implant (breakage of nail or interlocking screws). Case series. Orthopaedics and Spinal Surgery, Ghurki Trust Teaching Hospital, Lahore Medical and Dental College, Lahore, from September 2008 to August 2009. Fifty patients aged 14 - 60 years, of either gender were included, who had closed and Gustilo type I and II open fractures reported in 2 weeks, whose closed reduction was not possible or was unsatisfactory and fracture was located 7 cm below knee joint to 7 cm above ankle joint. Fractures previously treated with external fixator, infected fractures and unfit patients were excluded. All fractures were fixed with intramedullary interlocking SIGN nail and were followed clinically and radiographically for union and for any implant failure. Forty one (88%) patients had united fracture within 6 months, 5 (10%) patients had delayed union while 4 (8%) patients had non-union. Mean duration for achieving union was 163 + 30.6 days. Interlocking screws were broken in 2 patients while no nail was broken in any patient. Intramedullary interlocking nailing is an effective measure in treating closed and grade I and II open tibial fractures. It provides a high rate of union less complications and early return to function.

The Portuguese gamma irradiation facility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mendes, C. M.; Almeida, J. C.; Botelho, M. L.; Cavaco, M. C.; Almeida-Vara, E.; Andrade, M. E.

A Gamma Radiation Facility was built up in the National Laboratory of Industrial Technology and Engineering (LNETI), Lisbon, Portugal. This plant (UTR GAMA-Pi) is a Cobalt-60 dry storage continuous facility with a nominal capacity of 1.5X10 16 Bq. The initial activity is 1.1X10 16 Bq and the troughput capacity 10 3 ton/year for product with a bulk density of 0.2 g/cm 3 treated with a minimum absorbed dose of 25 kGy. Complementary control devices were installed: ventilation system, closed water refrigeration circuit, internal TV system, detection and extinction fire system and emergency power group. It must be emphasized that the best attention was given to the conception and efficiency of the interlock safety systems. This facility will be utilized mainly for radiosterilization of medical articles and decontamination of wine cork stoppers.

A Triple-Mode Flexible E-Skin Sensor Interface for Multi-Purpose Wearable Applications

PubMed Central

Kim, Sung-Woo; Lee, Youngoh; Park, Jonghwa; Kim, Seungmok; Chae, Heeyoung; Ko, Hyunhyub

2017-01-01

This study presents a flexible wireless electronic skin (e-skin) sensor system that includes a multi-functional sensor device, a triple-mode reconfigurable readout integrated circuit (ROIC), and a mobile monitoring interface. The e-skin device’s multi-functionality is achieved by an interlocked micro-dome array structure that uses a polyvinylidene fluoride and reduced graphene oxide (PVDF/RGO) composite material that is inspired by the structure and functions of the human fingertip. For multi-functional implementation, the proposed triple-mode ROIC is reconfigured to support piezoelectric, piezoresistance, and pyroelectric interfaces through single-type e-skin sensor devices. A flexible system prototype was developed and experimentally verified to provide various wireless wearable sensing functions—including pulse wave, voice, chewing/swallowing, breathing, knee movements, and temperature—while their real-time sensed data are displayed on a smartphone. PMID:29286312

NASA Tech Briefs, August 2003

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2003-01-01

Topics covered include: Stable, Thermally Conductive Fillers for Bolted Joints; Connecting to Thermocouples with Fewer Lead Wires; Zipper Connectors for Flexible Electronic Circuits; Safety Interlock for Angularly Misdirected Power Tool; Modular, Parallel Pulse-Shaping Filter Architectures; High-Fidelity Piezoelectric Audio Device; Photovoltaic Power Station with Ultracapacitors for Storage; Time Analyzer for Time Synchronization and Monitor of the Deep Space Network; Program for Computing Albedo; Integrated Software for Analyzing Designs of Launch Vehicles; Abstract-Reasoning Software for Coordinating Multiple Agents; Software Searches for Better Spacecraft-Navigation Models; Software for Partly Automated Recognition of Targets; Antistatic Polycarbonate/Copper Oxide Composite; Better VPS Fabrication of Crucibles and Furnace Cartridges; Burn-Resistant, Strong Metal-Matrix Composites; Self-Deployable Spring-Strip Booms; Explosion Welding for Hermetic Containerization; Improved Process for Fabricating Carbon Nanotube Probes; Automated Serial Sectioning for 3D Reconstruction; and Parallel Subconvolution Filtering Architectures.

Multimodal Chemosensory Circuits Controlling Male Courtship in Drosophila.

PubMed

Clowney, E Josephine; Iguchi, Shinya; Bussell, Jennifer J; Scheer, Elias; Ruta, Vanessa

2015-09-02

Throughout the animal kingdom, internal states generate long-lasting and self-perpetuating chains of behavior. In Drosophila, males instinctively pursue females with a lengthy and elaborate courtship ritual triggered by activation of sexually dimorphic P1 interneurons. Gustatory pheromones are thought to activate P1 neurons but the circuit mechanisms that dictate their sensory responses to gate entry into courtship remain unknown. Here, we use circuit mapping and in vivo functional imaging techniques to trace gustatory and olfactory pheromone circuits to their point of convergence onto P1 neurons and reveal how their combined input underlies selective tuning to appropriate sexual partners. We identify inhibition, even in response to courtship-promoting pheromones, as a key circuit element that tunes and tempers P1 neuron activity. Our results suggest a circuit mechanism in which balanced excitation and inhibition underlie discrimination of prospective mates and stringently regulate the transition to courtship in Drosophila. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Multimodal chemosensory circuits controlling male courtship in Drosophila

PubMed Central

Clowney, E. Josephine; Iguchi, Shinya; Bussell, Jennifer J.; Scheer, Elias; Ruta, Vanessa

2015-01-01

Summary Throughout the animal kingdom, internal states generate long-lasting and self-perpetuating chains of behavior. In Drosophila, males instinctively pursue females with a lengthy and elaborate courtship ritual triggered by activation of sexually dimorphic P1 interneurons. Gustatory pheromones are thought to activate P1 neurons but the circuit mechanisms that dictate their sensory responses to gate entry into courtship remain unknown. Here, we use circuit mapping and in vivo functional imaging techniques to trace gustatory and olfactory pheromone circuits to their point of convergence onto P1 neurons and reveal how their combined input underlies selective tuning to appropriate sexual partners. We identify inhibition, even in response to courtship-promoting pheromones, as a key circuit element that tunes and tempers P1 neuron activity. Our results suggest a circuit mechanism in which balanced excitation and inhibition underlie discrimination of prospective mates and stringently regulate the transition to courtship in Drosophila. PMID:26279475

Presynaptic Inputs to Any CNS Projection Neuron Identified by Dual Recombinant Virus Infection

PubMed Central

Bráz, João M.; Wang, Fan; Basbaum, Allan I.

2015-01-01

Although neuroanatomical tracing studies have defined the origin and targets of major projection neurons (PN) of the central nervous system (CNS), there is much less information about the circuits that influence these neurons. Recently, genetic approaches that use Cre recombinase-dependent viral vectors have greatly facilitated such circuit analysis, but these tracing approaches are limited by the availability of Cre-expressing mouse lines and the difficulty in restricting Cre expression to discrete regions of the CNS. Here, we illustrate an alternative approach to drive Cre expression specifically in defined subsets of CNS projection neurons, so as to map both direct and indirect presynaptic inputs to these cells. The method involves a combination of Cre-dependent transneuronal viral tracers that can be used in the adult and that does not require genetically modified mice. To trigger Cre-expression we inject a Cre-expressing adenovirus that is retrogradely transported to the projection neurons of interest. The region containing the retrogradely labeled projection neurons is next injected with Cre-dependent pseudorabies or rabies vectors, which results in labeling of poly- and monosynaptic neuronal inputs, respectively. In proof-of-concept experiments, we used this novel tracing system to study the circuits that engage projection neurons of the superficial dorsal horn of the spinal cord and trigeminal nucleus caudalis, neurons of the parabrachial nucleus of the dorsolateral pons that project to the amygdala and cortically-projecting neurons of the lateral geniculate nucleus. Importantly, because this dual viral tracing method does not require genetically derived Cre-expressing mouse lines, inputs to almost any projection system can be studied and the analysis can be performed in larger animals, such as the rat. PMID:26470056

Peri-Implant Distribution of Polyethylene Debris in Postmortem-Retrieved Knee Arthroplasties: Can Polyethylene Debris Explain Loss of Cement-Bone Interlock in Successful Total Knee Arthroplasties?

PubMed

Cyndari, Karen I; Goodheart, Jacklyn R; Miller, Mark A; Oest, Megan E; Damron, Timothy A; Mann, Kenneth A

2017-07-01

Loss of mechanical interlock between cement and bone with in vivo service has been recently quantified for functioning, nonrevised, cemented total knee arthroplasties (TKAs). The cause of interlocking trabecular resorption is not known. The goal of this study is to quantify the distribution of PE debris at the cement-bone interface and determine if polyethylene (PE) debris is locally associated with loss of interlock. Fresh, nonrevised, postmortem-retrieved TKAs (n = 8) were obtained en bloc. Laboratory-prepared constructs (n = 2) served as negative controls. The intact cement-bone interface of each proximal tibia was embedded in Spurr's resin, sectioned, and imaged under polarized light to identify birefringent PE particles. PE wear particle number density was quantified at the cement-bone interface and distal to the interface, and then compared with local loss of cement-bone interlock. The average PE particle number density for postmortem-retrieved TKAs ranged from 8.6 (1.3) to 24.9 (3.1) particles/mm 2 (standard error) but was weakly correlated with years in service. The average particle number density was twice as high as distal (>5mm) to the interface compared to at the interface. The local loss of interlock at the interface was not related to the presence, absence, or particle density of PE. PE debris can migrate extensively along the cement-bone interface of well-fixed tibial components. However, the amount of local bone loss at the cement-bone interface was not correlated with the amount of PE debris at the interface, suggesting that the observed loss of trabecular interlock in these well-fixed TKAs may be due to alternative factors. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Interlocking egg-crate type grid assembly

DOEpatents

Kast, Steven J.

1987-01-01

Disclosed is an interlocking egg-crate hexagonal grid for supporting a nuclear fuel pin in a hexagonal array. The grid is formed from strips bent at an angle of about 120.degree. at each vertex. Over some faces of each hexagonal cell the strips are coplanar but are arranged, by stacking and interlocking, to avoid any double thickness of metal in that plane. Springs and dimples are formed in the faces of each cell to hold the fuel pin substantially centered.

Interlocking egg-crate type grid assembly

DOEpatents

Kast, S.J.

1985-03-15

Disclosed is an interlocking egg-crate hexagonal grid for supporting a nuclear fuel pin in a hexagonal array. The grid is formed from strips bent at an angle of about 120/sup 0/ at each vertex. Over some faces of each hexagonal cell the strips are coplanar but are arranged, by stacking interlocking, to avoid any double thickness of metal in that plane. Springs and dimples are formed in the faces of each cell to hold the fuel pin substantially centered.

A Framework for Robust Multivariable Optimization of Integrated Circuits in Space Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

DuMonthier, Jeffrey; Suarez, George

2013-01-01

Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) design for space applications involves multiple challenges of maximizing performance, minimizing power and ensuring reliable operation in extreme environments. This is a complex multidimensional optimization problem which must be solved early in the development cycle of a system due to the time required for testing and qualification severely limiting opportunities to modify and iterate. Manual design techniques which generally involve simulation at one or a small number of corners with a very limited set of simultaneously variable parameters in order to make the problem tractable are inefficient and not guaranteed to achieve the best possible results within the performance envelope defined by the process and environmental requirements. What is required is a means to automate design parameter variation, allow the designer to specify operational constraints and performance goals, and to analyze the results in a way which facilitates identifying the tradeoffs defining the performance envelope over the full set of process and environmental corner cases. The system developed by the Mixed Signal ASIC Group (MSAG) at the Goddard Space Flight Center is implemented as framework of software modules, templates and function libraries. It integrates CAD tools and a mathematical computing environment, and can be customized for new circuit designs with only a modest amount of effort as most common tasks are already encapsulated. Customization is required for simulation test benches to determine performance metrics and for cost function computation. Templates provide a starting point for both while toolbox functions minimize the code required. Once a test bench has been coded to optimize a particular circuit, it is also used to verify the final design. The combination of test bench and cost function can then serve as a template for similar circuits or be re-used to migrate the design to different processes by re-running it with the new process specific device models. The system has been used in the design of time to digital converters for laser ranging and time-of-flight mass spectrometry to optimize analog, mixed signal and digital circuits such as charge sensitive amplifiers, comparators, delay elements, radiation tolerant dual interlocked (DICE) flip-flops and two of three voter gates.

Binding of anions in triply interlocked coordination catenanes and dynamic allostery for dehalogenation reactions.

PubMed

Yang, Linlin; Jing, Xu; An, Bowen; He, Cheng; Yang, Yang; Duan, Chunying

2018-01-28

By synergistic combination of multicomponent self-assembly and template-directed approaches, triply interlocked metal organic catenanes that consist of two isolated chirally identical tetrahedrons were constructed and stabilized as thermodynamic minima. In the presence of suitable template anions, the structural conversion from the isolated tetrahedral conformers into locked catenanes occurred via the cleavage of an intrinsically reversible coordination bond in each of the tetrahedrons, followed by the reengineering and interlocking of two fragments with the regeneration of the broken coordination bonds. The presence of several kinds of individual pocket that were attributed to the triply interlocked patterns enabled the possibility of encapsulating different anions, allowing the dynamic allostery between the unlocked/locked conformers to promote the dehalogenation reaction of 3-bromo-cyclohexene efficiently, as with the use of dehalogenase enzymes. The interlocked structures could be unlocked into two individual tetrahedrons through removal of the well-matched anion templates. The stability and reversibility of the locked/unlocked structures were further confirmed by the catching/releasing process that accompanied emission switching, providing opportunities for the system to be a dynamic molecular logic system.

Experimental Investigation About Stamping Behaviour of 3D Warp Interlock Composite Preforms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dufour, Clément; Wang, Peng; Boussu, François; Soulat, Damien

2014-10-01

Forming of continuous fibre reinforcements and thermoplastic resin commingled prepregs can be performed at room temperature due to its similar textile structure. The "cool" forming stage is better controlled and more economical. The increase of temperature and the resin consolidation phases after the forming can be carried out under the isothermal condition thanks to a closed system. It can avoid the manufacturing defects easily experienced in the non-isothermal thermoforming, in particular the wrinkling [1]. Glass/Polypropylene commingled yarns have been woven inside different three-dimensional (3D) warp interlock fabrics and then formed using a double-curved shape stamping tool. The present study investigates the in-plane and through-thickness behaviour of the 3D warp interlock fibrous reinforcements during forming with a hemispherical punch. Experimental data allow analysing the forming behaviour in the warp and weft directions and on the influence of warp interlock architectures. The results point out that the layer to layer warp interlock preform has a better stamping behaviour, in particular no forming defects and good homogeneity in thickness.

Development of Interlocking Masonry Bricks and its’ Structural Behaviour: A Review Paper

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Al-Fakih, Amin; Mohammed, Bashar S.; Nuruddin, Fadhil; Nikbakht, Ehsan

2018-04-01

Conventional bricks are the most elementary building materials for houses construction. However, the rapid growth in today’s construction industry has obliged the civil engineers in searching for a new building technique that may result in even greater economy, more efficient and durable as an alternative for the conventional brick. Moreover, the high demands for having a speedy and less labour and cost building systems is one of the factor that cause the changes of the masonry conventional systems. These changes have led to improved constructability, performance, and cost as well. Several interlocking bricks has been developed and implemented in building constructions and a number of researches had studied the manufacturing of interlocking brick and its structural behaviour as load bearing and non-load bearing element. This technical paper aims to review the development of interlocking brick and its structural behaviour. In conclusion, the concept of interlocking system has been widely used as a replacement of the conventional system where it has been utilized either as load bearing or non-load bearing masonry system.

Cloning Nacre's 3D Interlocking Skeleton in Engineering Composites to Achieve Exceptional Mechanical Properties.

PubMed

Zhao, Hewei; Yue, Yonghai; Guo, Lin; Wu, Juntao; Zhang, Youwei; Li, Xiaodong; Mao, Shengcheng; Han, Xiaodong

2016-07-01

Ceramic/polymer composite equipped with 3D interlocking skeleton (3D IL) is developed through a simple freeze-casting method, exhibiting exceptionally light weight, high strength, toughness, and shock resistance. Long-range crack energy dissipation enabled by 3D interlocking structure is considered as the primary reinforcing mechanism for such superior properties. The smart composite design strategy should hold a place in developing future structural engineering materials. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Transient analysis of ”2 inch Direct Vessel Injection line break” in SPES-2 facility by using TRACE code

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

D'Amico, S.; Lombardo, C.; Moscato, I.; Polidori, M.; Vella, G.

2015-11-01

In the past few decades a lot of theoretical and experimental researches have been done to understand the physical phenomena characterizing nuclear accidents. In particular, after the Three Miles Island accident, several reactors have been designed to handle successfully LOCA events. This paper presents a comparison between experimental and numerical results obtained for the “2 inch Direct Vessel Injection line break” in SPES-2. This facility is an integral test facility built in Piacenza at the SIET laboratories and simulating the primary circuit, the relevant parts of the secondary circuits and the passive safety systems typical of the AP600 nuclear power plant. The numerical analysis here presented was performed by using TRACE and CATHARE thermal-hydraulic codes with the purpose of evaluating their prediction capability. The main results show that the TRACE model well predicts the overall behaviour of the plant during the transient, in particular it is able to simulate the principal thermal-hydraulic phenomena related to all passive safety systems. The performance of the presented CATHARE noding has suggested some possible improvements of the model.

The effect of a gearshift interlock on seat belt use by drivers who do not always use a belt and its acceptance among those who do.

PubMed

Kidd, David G; Singer, Jeremiah; Huey, Richard; Kerfoot, Laura

2018-06-01

Seat belts reduce the risk of fatal injury in a crash, yet in 2015, nearly 10,000 people killed in passenger vehicles were unrestrained. Enhanced seat belt reminders increase belt use, but a gearshift interlock that prevents the vehicle from being placed into gear unless the seat belt is used may prove more effective. Thirty-two people with a recent seat belt citation and who admitted to not always using a seat belt as a driver were recruited as part-time belt users and asked to evaluate two new vehicles. Sixteen drove two vehicles with an enhanced reminder for one week each, and 16 drove a vehicle with an enhanced reminder for one week and a vehicle with a gearshift interlock the following week. Sixteen full-time belt users who reported always using a seat belt drove a vehicle with a gearshift interlock for one week to evaluate acceptance. Relative to the enhanced reminder, the gearshift interlock significantly increased the likelihood that a part-time belt user used a belt during travel time in a trip by 21%, and increased the rate of belt use by 16%; this effect approached significance. Although every full-time belt user experienced the gearshift interlock, their acceptance of the technology reported in a post-study survey was fairly positive and not significantly different from part-time belt users. Six part-time belt users circumvented the gearshift interlock by sitting on a seat belt, waiting for the system to deactivate, or unbuckling during travel. The gearshift interlock increased the likelihood that part-time belt users buckled up and the rate of belt use during travel relative to the enhanced reminder but could be more effective if it prevented circumvention. An estimated 718-942 lives could be saved annually if the belt use of unbuckled drivers and front passengers increased 16-21%. Copyright © 2018 National Safety Council and Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

CYBER 200 Applications Seminar

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gary, J. P. (Compiler)

1984-01-01

Applications suited for the CYBER 200 digital computer are discussed. Various areas of application including meteorology, algorithms, fluid dynamics, monte carlo methods, petroleum, electronic circuit simulation, biochemistry, lattice gauge theory, economics and ray tracing are discussed.

Poly[n]catenanes: Synthesis of molecular interlocked chains

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Qiong; Rauscher, Phillip M.; Lang, Xiaolong; Wojtecki, Rudy J.; de Pablo, Juan J.; Hore, Michael J. A.; Rowan, Stuart J.

2017-12-01

As the macromolecular version of mechanically interlocked molecules, mechanically interlocked polymers are promising candidates for the creation of sophisticated molecular machines and smart soft materials. Poly[n]catenanes, where the molecular chains consist solely of interlocked macrocycles, contain one of the highest concentrations of topological bonds. We report, herein, a synthetic approach toward this distinctive polymer architecture in high yield (~75%) via efficient ring closing of rationally designed metallosupramolecular polymers. Light-scattering, mass spectrometric, and nuclear magnetic resonance characterization of fractionated samples support assignment of the high-molar mass product (number-average molar mass ~21.4 kilograms per mole) to a mixture of linear poly[7-26]catenanes, branched poly[13-130]catenanes, and cyclic poly[4-7]catenanes. Increased hydrodynamic radius (in solution) and glass transition temperature (in bulk materials) were observed upon metallation with Zn2+.

Fire resistant PV shingle assembly

DOEpatents

Lenox, Carl J.

2012-10-02

A fire resistant PV shingle assembly includes a PV assembly, including PV body, a fire shield and a connection member connecting the fire shield below the PV body, and a support and inter-engagement assembly. The support and inter-engagement assembly is mounted to the PV assembly and comprises a vertical support element, supporting the PV assembly above a support surface, an upper interlock element, positioned towards the upper PV edge, and a lower interlock element, positioned towards the lower PV edge. The upper interlock element of one PV shingle assembly is inter-engageable with the lower interlock element of an adjacent PV shingle assembly. In some embodiments the PV shingle assembly may comprise a ventilation path below the PV body. The PV body may be slidably mounted to the connection member to facilitate removal of the PV body.

Advanced Containment System

DOEpatents

Kostelnik, Kevin M.; Kawamura, Hideki; Richardson, John G.; Noda, Masaru

2004-10-12

An advanced containment system for containing buried waste and associated leachate. A trench is dug on either side of the zone of interest containing the buried waste so as to accommodate a micro tunnel boring machine. A series of small diameter tunnels are serially excavated underneath the buried waste. The tunnels are excavated by the micro tunnel boring machine at a consistent depth and are substantially parallel to each other. As tunneling progresses, steel casing sections are connected end to end in the excavated portion of the tunnel so that a steel tube is formed. Each casing section has complementary interlocking structure running its length that interlocks with complementary interlocking structure on the adjacent casing section. Thus, once the first tube is emplaced, placement of subsequent tubes is facilitated by the complementary interlocking structure on the adjacent, previously placed, casing sections.

Advanced Containment System

DOEpatents

Kostelnik, Kevin M.; Kawamura, Hideki; Richardson, John G.; Noda, Masaru

2005-05-24

An advanced containment system for containing buried waste and associated leachate. A trench is dug on either side of the zone of interest containing the buried waste so as to accommodate a micro tunnel boring machine. A series of small diameter tunnels are serially excavated underneath the buried waste. The tunnels are excavated by the micro tunnel boring machine at a consistent depth and are substantially parallel to each other. As tunneling progresses, steel casing sections are connected end to end in the excavated portion of the tunnel so that a steel tube is formed. Each casing section has complementary interlocking structure running its length that interlocks with complementary interlocking structure on the adjacent casing section. Thus, once the first tube is emplaced, placement of subsequent tubes is facilitated by the complementary interlocking structure on the adjacent, previously placed, casing sections.

Tracing neuronal circuits in transgenic animals by transneuronal control of transcription (TRACT)

PubMed Central

Huang, Ting-hao; Niesman, Peter; Arasu, Deepshika; Lee, Donghyung; De La Cruz, Aubrie L; Callejas, Antuca; Hong, Elizabeth J

2017-01-01

Understanding the computations that take place in brain circuits requires identifying how neurons in those circuits are connected to one another. We describe a technique called TRACT (TRAnsneuronal Control of Transcription) based on ligand-induced intramembrane proteolysis to reveal monosynaptic connections arising from genetically labeled neurons of interest. In this strategy, neurons expressing an artificial ligand (‘donor’ neurons) bind to and activate a genetically-engineered artificial receptor on their synaptic partners (‘receiver’ neurons). Upon ligand-receptor binding at synapses the receptor is cleaved in its transmembrane domain and releases a protein fragment that activates transcription in the synaptic partners. Using TRACT in Drosophila we have confirmed the connectivity between olfactory receptor neurons and their postsynaptic targets, and have discovered potential new connections between neurons in the circadian circuit. Our results demonstrate that the TRACT method can be used to investigate the connectivity of neuronal circuits in the brain. PMID:29231171

Effect of Ground Layer Patterns with Slits on Conducted Noise Currents from Printed Circuit Board

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maeno, Tsuyoshi; Unou, Takanori; Ichikawa, Kouji; Fujiwara, Osamu

Electromagnetic disturbances for vehicle-mounted radios can be caused by conducted noise currents that flows out from electronic equipment for vehicles to wire-harnesses. In this paper, for reducing the conducted noise currents from electronic equipment for vehicles, we made a simulation and experiment on how ground patterns affect the noise currents from three-layer printed circuit boards (PCBs) with slit-types and plane-type ground patterns. As a result, we could confirm that slits on a ground pattern allow conducted noise currents to flow out from PCBs to wire-harnesses. For the PCBs with plane-type ground and one of three slit-type patterns, on the other hand, both the simulation and examination showed that resonance phenomena occur at unexpected low-frequencies. A circuit analysis revealed that the above phenomena can be caused by the imbalance of a bridge circuit consisting of the trace circuits on the PCB.

Enhanced Mechanical Performance of Bio-Inspired Hybrid Structures Utilising Topological Interlocking Geometry.

PubMed

Djumas, Lee; Molotnikov, Andrey; Simon, George P; Estrin, Yuri

2016-05-24

Structural composites inspired by nacre have emerged as prime exemplars for guiding materials design of fracture-resistant, rigid hybrid materials. The intricate microstructure of nacre, which combines a hard majority phase with a small fraction of a soft phase, achieves superior mechanical properties compared to its constituents and has generated much interest. However, replicating the hierarchical microstructure of nacre is very challenging, not to mention improving it. In this article, we propose to alter the geometry of the hard building blocks by introducing the concept of topological interlocking. This design principle has previously been shown to provide an inherently brittle material with a remarkable flexural compliance. We now demonstrate that by combining the basic architecture of nacre with topological interlocking of discrete hard building blocks, hybrid materials of a new type can be produced. By adding a soft phase at the interfaces between topologically interlocked blocks in a single-build additive manufacturing process, further improvement of mechanical properties is achieved. The design of these fabricated hybrid structures has been guided by computational work elucidating the effect of various geometries. To our knowledge, this is the first reported study that combines the advantages of nacre-inspired structures with the benefits of topological interlocking.

Laboratory testing of alcohol safety interlock systems employing divided attention tests

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1975-12-01

Author's abstract: Prototype Alcohol Safety Interlock Systems employing measurements of tracking ability, reaction time, and response accuracy to discern alcohol impairment were submitted to laboratory testing. These systems were modified versions of...

Alcohol ignition interlock service support

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1992-12-01

Author's abstract: This Technical Report was produced under Contract No. DTNH22-89-C-07009 for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Under that same contract, a draft set of model specifications for Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Dev...

Temporary bridge deck panels.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-03-01

The research described here has resulted in the development of a simplistic and innovative interlocking : glulam bridge deck panel for use in temporary bridge deck applications. The key feature of this panel : system is the interlocking tongue and gr...

Interlock Data Utilization

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-08-01

The objectives of this exploratory study were to determine (a) how ignition interlock data is used for DWI offender monitoring and offender-related programs, such as screening, assessments, and treatment for alcohol abuse problems; and (b) if the int...

Experimental evaluation of second-generation alcohol safety-interlock systems

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1978-01-01

Author's absract: This report documents the results of laboratory testing of four "second-generation" alcohol safety-interlock systems. As a group, these systems were found to produce appreciable discrimination between sober and intoxicated subjects.

Development of simulated and ovine models of extracorporeal life support to improve understanding of circuit-host interactions.

PubMed

Shekar, Kiran; Fung, Yoke L; Diab, Sara; Mullany, Daniel V; McDonald, Charles I; Dunster, Kimble R; Fisquet, Stephanie; Platts, David G; Stewart, David; Wallis, Steven C; Smith, Maree T; Roberts, Jason A; Fraser, John F

2012-06-01

Extracorporeal life support (ECLS) is a lifesaving technology that is being increasingly used in patients with severe cardiorespiratory failure. However, ECLS is not without risks. The biosynthetic interface between the patient and the circuit can significantly alter inflammation, coagulation, pharmacokinetics and disposition of trace elements. The relative contributions of the pump, disease and patient in propagating these alterations are difficult to quantify in critically ill patients with multiple organ failure. To design a model where the relevance of individual components could be assessed, in isolation and in combination. Four ECLS models were developed and tested - an in-vitro simulated ECLS circuit; and ECLS in healthy sheep, sheep with acute lung injury (ALI), and sheep with ALI together with transfusion of old or new blood. Successful design of in-vitro and in-vivo models. We successfully conducted multiple experiments in the simulated circuits and ECLS runs in healthy and ALI sheep. We obtained preliminary data on inflammation, coagulation, histology, pharmacokinetics and trace element disposition during ECLS. The establishment of in-vitro and in-vivo models provides a powerful means for enhancing knowledge of the pathophysiology associated with ECLS and identification of key factors likely to influence patient outcomes. A clearer description of the contribution of disease and therapeutic interventions may allow improved design of equipment, membranes, medicines and physiological goals for improved patient care.

Jumbo Cutter for Removal of A Bent Femoral Interlocking Nail: A Cost Effective Method

PubMed Central

Dhanda, Manjeet Singh; Sharma, Sansar C; Ali, Nadeem; Bhat, Abedullah

2015-01-01

Closed diaphyseal femoral shaft fractures can be treated with multiple surgical options. It is more challenging to remove a bent nail than a broken one because it is difficult to retrieve the bent nail through the intramedullary canal. Various authors have published their techniques for removal of bent femoral interlocking nail. This article describes a simple technique using Jumbo cutter for sectioning and removal of bent interlocking nail. This technique will help orthopaedic surgeons to remove bent nail without using any specialised metal cutting instruments. PMID:26266173

Lithium Circuit Test Section Design and Fabrication

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Godfroy, Thomas; Garber, Anne

2006-01-01

The Early Flight Fission - Test Facilities (EFF-TF) team has designed and built an actively pumped lithium flow circuit. Modifications were made to a circuit originally designed for NaK to enable the use of lithium that included application specific instrumentation and hardware. Component scale freeze/thaw tests were conducted to both gain experience with handling and behavior of lithium in solid and liquid form and to supply anchor data for a Generalized Fluid System Simulation Program (GFSSP) model that was modified to include the physics for freeze/thaw transitions. Void formation was investigated. The basic circuit components include: reactor segment, lithium to gas heat exchanger, electromagnetic (EM) liquid metal pump, load/drain reservoir, expansion reservoir, instrumentation, and trace heaters. This paper will discuss the overall system design and build and the component testing findings.

Lithium Circuit Test Section Design and Fabrication

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Godfroy, Thomas; Garber, Anne; Martin, James

2006-01-01

The Early Flight Fission - Test Facilities (EFF-TF) team has designed and built an actively pumped lithium flow circuit. Modifications were made to a circuit originally designed for NaK to enable the use of lithium that included application specific instrumentation and hardware. Component scale freeze/thaw tests were conducted to both gain experience with handling and behavior of lithium in solid and liquid form and to supply anchor data for a Generalized Fluid System Simulation Program (GFSSP) model that was modified to include the physics for freeze/thaw transitions. Void formation was investigated. The basic circuit components include: reactor segment, lithium to gas heat exchanger, electromagnetic (EM) liquid metal pump, load/drain reservoir, expansion reservoir, instrumentation, and trace heaters. This paper discusses the overall system design and build and the component testing findings.

23. Looking N up corridor from Chick Interlocking Tower. Boston, ...

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

23. Looking N up corridor from Chick Interlocking Tower. Boston, Suffolk Co., MA. Sec. 4116, MP 227.09. - Northeast Railroad Corridor, Amtrak Route between RI/MA State Line & South Station, Boston, Suffolk County, MA

Interlock Data Utilization : Traffic Tech

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-06-01

Driving-while-impaired (DWI) offenders present a high risk to traffic safety. Alcohol ignition interlocks are now widely used for DWI offenders and can significantly reduce DWI recidivism while on the offenders vehicle. In a typical year an interl...

Refining the maintenance techniques for Interlocking Concrete Paver GIs

EPA Science Inventory

Surface clogging adversely affects the performance of Interlocking Concrete Pavements (ICP) by reducing their ability to infiltrate stormwater runoff. The clogging rate is a function of pavement type, traffic loading, surrounding physical environment and maintenance treatments. ...

Laboratory evaluation of alcohol safety interlock systems. Volume 1 : summary report

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1974-01-01

The report contains the results of an experimental and analytical evaluation of instruments and techniques designed to prevent an intoxicated driver from operating his automobile. The prototype 'Alcohol Safety Interlock Systems' tested were developed...

The Layer of Kevlar Angle-interlock Woven Fabric Effect on the Tensile Properties of Composite Materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xie, Wan-Chen; Guo, Xu-Yi; Yan, Tao; Zhang, Shang-Yong

2017-09-01

This article is based on the structure of three-dimensional angle-interlock longitudinal.The 3-layer, 5-layer, 7-layer and 9-layer of angle-interlock 3D fabrics are woven on sample weaving machine respectively with the 1500D Kevlar fiber twist filament produced by United States DuPont. At the same time, Kevlar plain weave fabric is woven, and three, five, seven and nine layers’ fabric are to be compared. In the process of VARTM composite technology, epoxy resin is matrix material, acetone is diluent, triethylene tetramine is curing agent and the five different fabrics are the reinforced materials respectively. Finally, eight different three-dimensional woven fabric composites were prepared. In this paper, the tensile properties of eight kinds of three-dimensional woven fabric composites were tested respectively.Finally, it is concluded that the five-layer angle-interlock woven fabric prepared by Kevlar fiber shows the best tensile property.

Mechanical interlocking of cotton fibers on slightly textured surfaces of metallic cylinders

PubMed Central

Zhang, Youqiang; Tian, Yu; Meng, Yonggang

2016-01-01

Mechanical interlocking is widely applied in industry and general lives of human beings. In this work, we realized the control of locking or sliding states of cotton fibers on the metal surfaces with slightly different textures through traditional machining. Three types of sliding states, i.e., locking, one-way sliding, and two-way sliding have been achieved. It is found that the locking or sliding of the cotton fibers on the metallic cylinder depends on the friction coefficient and the ratio of cotton fiber diameter, 2r, to the height of the rough peaks, h, of metal surfaces. When the critical ratio h/r exceeds 1, the cotton fibers could tightly attach to the metallic surface through mechanical interlocking. This work provided a convenient and universal method for the control of interlocking or sliding of fiber-based materials on textured surfaces. PMID:27156720

Attitudes towards requiring ignition interlocks for all driving while intoxicated offenders: findings from the 2010 HealthStyles Survey

PubMed Central

Shults, Ruth A; Bergen, Gwen

2017-01-01

Ignition interlocks are effective in reducing recidivism among driving while intoxicated (DWI) offenders while installed on their vehicles. However, the devices are not widely used in the USA. This survey gauged public support for requiring ignition interlocks for all convicted DWI offenders including first-time offenders. 69% of respondents supported such a policy. Support was lowest (38%) among persons who reported drinking and driving in the past 30 days. Multivariate regression analysis indicated that support varied little by region, community size or most measured individual characteristics. Persons who did not drink and drive were 80% more likely to support the requirement than those who drink and drive. These findings suggest that laws requiring ignition interlocks for all convicted DWI offenders may face the most opposition in communities with high levels of drinking and driving. PMID:22773020

Segregated Fronto-Cerebellar Circuits Revealed by Intrinsic Functional Connectivity

PubMed Central

Buckner, Randy L.

2009-01-01

Multiple, segregated fronto-cerebellar circuits have been characterized in nonhuman primates using transneuronal tracing techniques including those that target prefrontal areas. Here, we used functional connectivity MRI (fcMRI) in humans (n = 40) to identify 4 topographically distinct fronto-cerebellar circuits that target 1) motor cortex, 2) dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, 3) medial prefrontal cortex, and 4) anterior prefrontal cortex. All 4 circuits were replicated and dissociated in an independent data set (n = 40). Direct comparison of right- and left-seeded frontal regions revealed contralateral lateralization in the cerebellum for each of the segregated circuits. The presence of circuits that involve prefrontal regions confirms that the cerebellum participates in networks important to cognition including a specific fronto-cerebellar circuit that interacts with the default network. Overall, the extent of the cerebellum associated with prefrontal cortex included a large portion of the posterior hemispheres consistent with a prominent role of the cerebellum in nonmotor functions. We conclude by providing a provisional map of the topography of the cerebellum based on functional correlations with the frontal cortex. PMID:19592571

Summary and evaluation of responses received on the alcohol safety interlock system

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1971-05-01

This report summarizes and evaluates devices and suggestions provided by respondents to the DOT Prospectus entitled "Some Considerations Related to the Development of an Alcohol Safety Interlock System (ASIS)". The responses are categorized into: (1)...

Laboratory evaluation of alcohol safety interlock systems. Volume 2 : instrument screening experiments

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1974-01-01

The report contains the results of an experimental and analytical evaluation of instruments and techniques designed to prevent an intoxicated driver from operating his automobile. The prototype 'Alcohol Safety Interlock Systems' tested were developed...

Refining the maintenance techniques for Interlocking Concrete Paver GIs - abstract

EPA Science Inventory

Surface clogging adversely affects the performance of Interlocking Concrete Pavements (ICP) by reducing their ability to infiltrate stormwater runoff. Determining the correct methods for remedial maintenances is crucial to recovering and maintaining efficient ICP performance. T...

Ignition interlock : an investigation into rural Arizona judges’ perceptions.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2014-05-01

This study sought to answer several questions regarding 2007 Arizona legislation requiring ignition interlock for all offenders convicted of Driving-Under-the-Influence (DUI), including first time DUI offenders. At the time the law was passed, Arizon...

Interlocked molecules: Moving into another dimension

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fournel-Marotte, Karine; Coutrot, Frédéric

2017-02-01

Molecular daisy-chain structures are typically made up of two interlocked components and can exhibit muscle-like contraction and extension in one dimension. Zinc-based multicomponent systems that can operate in two and three dimensions have now been designed and synthesized.

Ignition interlock: an investigation into rural Arizona judges' perceptions : traffic tech.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2014-05-01

This study sought to answer several questions regarding 2007 : Arizona legislation requiring ignition interlock for all offenders : convicted of driving under the influence (DUI), including : first-time DUI offenders. At the time the law was passed, ...

Examining the feasibility of alcohol ignition interlocks for motorcycles : traffic tech.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-05-01

Impaired driving is a major factor in vehicle crashes and traffic : fatalities. The use of alcohol ignition interlocks is growing as a : countermeasure to combat the high rate of offender recidivism : for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI); however, whi...

49 CFR 236.751 - Interlocking, manual.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Interlocking, manual. 236.751 Section 236.751 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to Transportation (Continued) FEDERAL RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION... so interconnected by means of mechanical and/or electric locking that their movements must succeed...

Laboratory evaluation of alcohol safety interlock systems. Volume 3 : instrument performance at high BAL

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1974-01-01

This report contains the results of an experimental and analytical evaluation of instruments and techniques designed to prevent an intoxicated driver from operating his automobile. The prototype 'Alcohol Safety Interlock Systems' tested were develope...

Evaluation of the New Mexico ignition interlock program : traffic tech.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-11-01

Impaired driving is a major factor in vehicle crashes and traffic : fatalities. The use of ignition interlocks is growing as a : countermeasure to combat the high rate of offender recidivism : for driving while intoxicated (DWI). New Mexico currently...

Innovative monitoring of 3D warp interlock fabric during forming process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dufour, C.; Jerkovic, I.; Wang, P.; Boussu, F.; Koncar, V.; Soulat, D.; Grancaric, A. M.; Pineau, P.

2017-10-01

The final geometry of 3D warp interlock fabric needs to be check during the 3D forming step to ensure the right locations of warp and weft yarns inside the final structure. Thus, a new monitoring approach has been proposed based on sensor yarns located in the fabric thickness. To ensure the accuracy of measurements, the observation of the surface deformation of the 3D warp interlock fabric has been joined to the sensor yarns measurements. At the end, it has been revealed a good correlation between strain measurement done globally by camera and locally performed by sensor yarns.

Enhanced Mechanical Performance of Bio-Inspired Hybrid Structures Utilising Topological Interlocking Geometry

PubMed Central

Djumas, Lee; Molotnikov, Andrey; Simon, George P.; Estrin, Yuri

2016-01-01

Structural composites inspired by nacre have emerged as prime exemplars for guiding materials design of fracture-resistant, rigid hybrid materials. The intricate microstructure of nacre, which combines a hard majority phase with a small fraction of a soft phase, achieves superior mechanical properties compared to its constituents and has generated much interest. However, replicating the hierarchical microstructure of nacre is very challenging, not to mention improving it. In this article, we propose to alter the geometry of the hard building blocks by introducing the concept of topological interlocking. This design principle has previously been shown to provide an inherently brittle material with a remarkable flexural compliance. We now demonstrate that by combining the basic architecture of nacre with topological interlocking of discrete hard building blocks, hybrid materials of a new type can be produced. By adding a soft phase at the interfaces between topologically interlocked blocks in a single-build additive manufacturing process, further improvement of mechanical properties is achieved. The design of these fabricated hybrid structures has been guided by computational work elucidating the effect of various geometries. To our knowledge, this is the first reported study that combines the advantages of nacre-inspired structures with the benefits of topological interlocking. PMID:27216277

On Critical States, Rupture States and Interlocking Strength of Granular Materials.

PubMed

Szalwinski, Chris M

2017-07-27

The Mohr-Coulomb theory of strength identifies cohesion and internal friction as the two principal contributions to the shear strength of a granular material. The contribution of cohesion in over-compacted granular materials has been challenged and replacing cohesion with interlocking has been proposed. A theory of rupture strength that includes interlocking is derived herein. The physics-chemistry concept of critical state is elaborated to accommodate granular materials, based on empirical definitions established in the fields of soil mechanics and bulk solids' flow. A surface in state space, called the critical compaction surface, separates over-compacted states from lightly compacted states. The intersection of this surface with the Mohr-Coulomb envelope forms the critical state surface for a granular material. The rupture strength of an over-compacted granular material is expressed as the sum of cohesion, internal friction and interlocking strength. Interlocking strength is the shear strength contribution due to over-compaction and vanishes at critical state. The theory allows migrations from one critical state to another. Changes in specific volume during such migrations are related to changes in mean-normal effective stress and uncoupled from changes in shearing strain. The theory is reviewed with respect to two established research programs and underlying assumptions are identified.

The Utilisation of Shredded PET as Aggregate Replacement for Interlocking Concrete Block

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mokhtar, M.; Kaamin, M.; Sahat, S.; Hamid, N. B.

2018-03-01

The consumption of plastic has grown substantially all over the world in recent years and this has created huge quantities of plastic-based waste. Plastic waste is now a serious environmental threat to the modern way of living, although steps were taken to reduce its consumption. This creates substantial garbage every day, which is much unhealthy. Plastic bottles such as Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) was use as the partially component in this making of interlocking blocks concrete. This project investigates the strength and workability of the interlocking block concrete by replacing course aggregate with % PET. The suitability of recycled plastics (PET) as course aggregate in interlocking block concrete and its advantages are discussed here. Moreover, there were more benefits when using interlocking block than using conventional block such as it easy for construction because they are aligning, easy to place, high speed stacking and they offer more resistance to shear and buildings would be even stronger. Based on the test perform, the failure parameter were discussed .From the compressive strength test result, it shows that the strength of concrete block decreased with increased of PET used. From the results, it shows that higher compressive strength was found with 5% natural course aggregate replaced with PET compared to other percentages.

Viral vector-based tools advance knowledge of basal ganglia anatomy and physiology.

PubMed

Sizemore, Rachel J; Seeger-Armbruster, Sonja; Hughes, Stephanie M; Parr-Brownlie, Louise C

2016-04-01

Viral vectors were originally developed to deliver genes into host cells for therapeutic potential. However, viral vector use in neuroscience research has increased because they enhance interpretation of the anatomy and physiology of brain circuits compared with conventional tract tracing or electrical stimulation techniques. Viral vectors enable neuronal or glial subpopulations to be labeled or stimulated, which can be spatially restricted to a single target nucleus or pathway. Here we review the use of viral vectors to examine the structure and function of motor and limbic basal ganglia (BG) networks in normal and pathological states. We outline the use of viral vectors, particularly lentivirus and adeno-associated virus, in circuit tracing, optogenetic stimulation, and designer drug stimulation experiments. Key studies that have used viral vectors to trace and image pathways and connectivity at gross or ultrastructural levels are reviewed. We explain how optogenetic stimulation and designer drugs used to modulate a distinct pathway and neuronal subpopulation have enhanced our mechanistic understanding of BG function in health and pathophysiology in disease. Finally, we outline how viral vector technology may be applied to neurological and psychiatric conditions to offer new treatments with enhanced outcomes for patients. Copyright © 2016 the American Physiological Society.

Viral vector-based tools advance knowledge of basal ganglia anatomy and physiology

PubMed Central

Sizemore, Rachel J.; Seeger-Armbruster, Sonja; Hughes, Stephanie M.

2016-01-01

Viral vectors were originally developed to deliver genes into host cells for therapeutic potential. However, viral vector use in neuroscience research has increased because they enhance interpretation of the anatomy and physiology of brain circuits compared with conventional tract tracing or electrical stimulation techniques. Viral vectors enable neuronal or glial subpopulations to be labeled or stimulated, which can be spatially restricted to a single target nucleus or pathway. Here we review the use of viral vectors to examine the structure and function of motor and limbic basal ganglia (BG) networks in normal and pathological states. We outline the use of viral vectors, particularly lentivirus and adeno-associated virus, in circuit tracing, optogenetic stimulation, and designer drug stimulation experiments. Key studies that have used viral vectors to trace and image pathways and connectivity at gross or ultrastructural levels are reviewed. We explain how optogenetic stimulation and designer drugs used to modulate a distinct pathway and neuronal subpopulation have enhanced our mechanistic understanding of BG function in health and pathophysiology in disease. Finally, we outline how viral vector technology may be applied to neurological and psychiatric conditions to offer new treatments with enhanced outcomes for patients. PMID:26888111

Cleaning of copper traces on circuit boards with excimer laser radiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wesner, D. A.; Mertin, M.; Lupp, F.; Kreutz, E. W.

1996-04-01

Cleaning of Cu traces on circuit boards is studied using pulsed excimer laser radiation (pulse width ˜ 20 ns, wavelength 248 nm), with the goal of improving the properties of the Cu surface for soldering and bonding. Traces with well-defined oxide overlayers are cleaned by irradiation in air using ≤ 10 3 laser pulses at fluences per pulse of ≤ 2 J cm -2. After treatment the surface morphology is analyzed using optical microscopy, optical profilometry, and scanning electron microscopy, while the chemical state of the surface is investigated with X-ray photoelectron (XPS) spectroscopy. Ellipsometry is used to determine the oxide overlayer thickness. Prior to cleaning samples exhibit a contamination overlayer about 15-25 nm in thickness containing Cu 2O and C. Cleaning reduces the overlayer thickness to ≤ 10 nm by material removal. The process tends to be self-limiting, since the optical reflectivity of the oxidized Cu surface for laser radiation is smaller than that of the cleaned surface. Additionally, the interaction with the laser radiation results in surface segregation of a minor alloy component out of the bulk (e.g. Zn), which may help to passivate the surface for further chemical reactions.

Strength of word-specific neural memory traces assessed electrophysiologically.

PubMed

Alexandrov, Alexander A; Boricheva, Daria O; Pulvermüller, Friedemann; Shtyrov, Yury

2011-01-01

Memory traces for words are frequently conceptualized neurobiologically as networks of neurons interconnected via reciprocal links developed through associative learning in the process of language acquisition. Neurophysiological reflection of activation of such memory traces has been reported using the mismatch negativity brain potential (MMN), which demonstrates an enhanced response to meaningful words over meaningless items. This enhancement is believed to be generated by the activation of strongly intraconnected long-term memory circuits for words that can be automatically triggered by spoken linguistic input and that are absent for unfamiliar phonological stimuli. This conceptual framework critically predicts different amounts of activation depending on the strength of the word's lexical representation in the brain. The frequent use of words should lead to more strongly connected representations, whereas less frequent items would be associated with more weakly linked circuits. A word with higher frequency of occurrence in the subject's language should therefore lead to a more pronounced lexical MMN response than its low-frequency counterpart. We tested this prediction by comparing the event-related potentials elicited by low- and high-frequency words in a passive oddball paradigm; physical stimulus contrasts were kept identical. We found that, consistent with our prediction, presenting the high-frequency stimulus led to a significantly more pronounced MMN response relative to the low-frequency one, a finding that is highly similar to previously reported MMN enhancement to words over meaningless pseudowords. Furthermore, activation elicited by the higher-frequency word peaked earlier relative to low-frequency one, suggesting more rapid access to frequently used lexical entries. These results lend further support to the above view on word memory traces as strongly connected assemblies of neurons. The speed and magnitude of their activation appears to be linked to the strength of internal connections in a memory circuit, which is in turn determined by the everyday use of language elements.

Fabric circuits and method of manufacturing fabric circuits

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chu, Andrew W. (Inventor); Dobbins, Justin A. (Inventor); Scully, Robert C. (Inventor); Trevino, Robert C. (Inventor); Lin, Greg Y. (Inventor); Fink, Patrick W. (Inventor)

2011-01-01

A flexible, fabric-based circuit comprises a non-conductive flexible layer of fabric and a conductive flexible layer of fabric adjacent thereto. A non-conductive thread, an adhesive, and/or other means may be used for attaching the conductive layer to the non-conductive layer. In some embodiments, the layers are attached by a computer-driven embroidery machine at pre-determined portions or locations in accordance with a pre-determined attachment layout before automated cutting. In some other embodiments, an automated milling machine or a computer-driven laser using a pre-designed circuit trace as a template cuts the conductive layer so as to separate an undesired portion of the conductive layer from a desired portion of the conductive layer. Additional layers of conductive fabric may be attached in some embodiments to form a multi-layer construct.

Chemical sensors fabricated by a photonic integrated circuit foundry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stievater, Todd H.; Koo, Kee; Tyndall, Nathan F.; Holmstrom, Scott A.; Kozak, Dmitry A.; Goetz, Peter G.; McGill, R. Andrew; Pruessner, Marcel W.

2018-02-01

We describe the detection of trace concentrations of chemical agents using waveguide-enhanced Raman spectroscopy in a photonic integrated circuit fabricated by AIM Photonics. The photonic integrated circuit is based on a five-centimeter long silicon nitride waveguide with a trench etched in the top cladding to allow access to the evanescent field of the propagating mode by analyte molecules. This waveguide transducer is coated with a sorbent polymer to enhance detection sensitivity and placed between low-loss edge couplers. The photonic integrated circuit is laid-out using the AIM Photonics Process Design Kit and fabricated on a Multi-Project Wafer. We detect chemical warfare agent simulants at sub parts-per-million levels in times of less than a minute. We also discuss anticipated improvements in the level of integration for photonic chemical sensors, as well as existing challenges.

Rotaxane and catenane host structures for sensing charged guest species.

PubMed

Langton, Matthew J; Beer, Paul D

2014-07-15

CONSPECTUS: The promise of mechanically interlocked architectures, such as rotaxanes and catenanes, as prototypical molecular switches and shuttles for nanotechnological applications, has stimulated an ever increasing interest in their synthesis and function. The elaborate host cavities of interlocked structures, however, can also offer a novel approach toward molecular recognition: this Account describes the use of rotaxane and catenane host systems for binding charged guest species, and for providing sensing capability through an integrated optical or electrochemical reporter group. Particular attention is drawn to the exploitation of the unusual dynamic properties of interlocked molecules, such as guest-induced shuttling or conformational switching, as a sophisticated means of achieving a selective and functional sensor response. We initially survey interlocked host systems capable of sensing cationic guests, before focusing on our accomplishments in synthesizing rotaxanes and catenanes designed for the more challenging task of selective anion sensing. In our group, we have developed the use of discrete anionic templation to prepare mechanically interlocked structures for anion recognition applications. Removal of the anion template reveals an interlocked host system, possessing a unique three-dimensional geometrically restrained binding cavity formed between the interlocked components, which exhibits impressive selectivity toward complementary anionic guest species. By incorporating reporter groups within such systems, we have developed both electrochemical and optical anion sensors which can achieve highly selective sensing of anionic guests. Transition metals, lanthanides, and organic fluorophores integrated within the mechanically bonded structural framework of the receptor are perturbed by the binding of the guest, with a concomitant change in the emission profile. We have also exploited the unique dynamics of interlocked hosts by demonstrating that an anion-induced conformational change can be used as a means of signal transduction. Electrochemical sensing has been realized by integration of the redox-active ferrocene functionality within a range of rotaxane and catenanes; binding of an anion perturbs the metallocene, leading to a cathodic shift in the ferrocene/ferrocenium redox couple. In order to obtain practical sensors for target charged guest species, confinement of receptors at a surface is necessary in order to develop robust, reuseable devices. Surface confinement also offers advantages over solution based receptors, including amplification of signal, enhanced guest binding thermodynamics and the negation of solubility problems. We have fabricated anion-templated rotaxanes and catenanes on gold electrode surfaces and demonstrated that the resulting mechanically bonded self-assembled monolayers are electrochemically responsive to the binding of anions, a crucial first step toward the advancement of sophisticated, highly selective, anion sensory devices. Rotaxane and catenane host molecules may be engineered to offer a superior level of molecular recognition, and the incorporation of optical or electrochemical reporter groups within these interlocked frameworks can allow for guest sensing. Advances in synthetic templation strategies has facilitated the synthesis of interlocked architectures and widened their interest as prototype molecular machines. However, their unique host-guest properties are only now beginning to be exploited as a sophisticated approach to chemical sensing. The development of functional host-guest sensory systems such as these is of great interest to the interdisciplinary field of supramolecular chemistry.

Examination of the feasibility of alcohol interlocks for motorcycles.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-06-01

In 2011 some 30 percent of the 4,612 motorcycle operators involved in fatal crashes had blood alcohol concentrations : (BACs) of .08 g/dL or higher. Although alcohol ignition interlocks are a common sanction to deter impaired driving, : they are not ...

WGA-Alexa conjugates for axonal tracing

PubMed Central

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

2017-01-01

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

Aquaporin-0 Targets Interlocking Domains to Control the Integrity and Transparency of the Eye Lens

PubMed Central

Lo, Woo-Kuen; Biswas, Sondip K.; Brako, Lawrence; Shiels, Alan; Gu, Sumin; Jiang, Jean X.

2014-01-01

Purpose. Lens fiber cell membranes contain aquaporin-0 (AQP0), which constitutes approximately 50% of the total fiber cell membrane proteins and has a dual function as a water channel protein and an adhesion molecule. Fiber cell membranes also develop an elaborate interlocking system that is required for maintaining structural order, stability, and lens transparency. Herein, we used an AQP0-deficient mouse model to investigate an unconventional adhesion role of AQP0 in maintaining a normal structure of lens interlocking protrusions. Methods. The loss of AQP0 in AQP0−/− lens fibers was verified by Western blot and immunofluorescence analyses. Changes in membrane surface structures of wild-type and AQP0−/− lenses at age 3 to 12 weeks were examined with scanning electron microscopy. Preferential distribution of AQP0 in wild-type fiber cell membranes was analyzed with immunofluorescence and immunogold labeling using freeze-fracturing transmission electron microscopy. Results. Interlocking protrusions in young differentiating fiber cells developed normally but showed minor abnormalities at approximately 50 μm deep in the absence of AQP0 in all ages studied. Strikingly, protrusions in maturing fiber cells specifically underwent uncontrolled elongation, deformation, and fragmentation, while cells still retained their overall shape. Later in the process, these changes eventually resulted in fiber cell separation, breakdown, and cataract formation in the lens core. Immunolabeling at the light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy levels demonstrated that AQP0 was particularly enriched in interlocking protrusions in wild-type lenses. Conclusions. This study suggests that AQP0 exerts its primary adhesion or suppression role specifically to maintain the normal structure of interlocking protrusions that is critical to the integrity and transparency of the lens. PMID:24458158

Delay grid multiplexing: simple time-based multiplexing and readout method for silicon photomultipliers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Won, Jun Yeon; Ko, Guen Bae; Lee, Jae Sung

2016-10-01

In this paper, we propose a fully time-based multiplexing and readout method that uses the principle of the global positioning system. Time-based multiplexing allows simplifying the multiplexing circuits where the only innate traces that connect the signal pins of the silicon photomultiplier (SiPM) channels to the readout channels are used as the multiplexing circuit. Every SiPM channel is connected to the delay grid that consists of the traces on a printed circuit board, and the inherent transit times from each SiPM channel to the readout channels encode the position information uniquely. Thus, the position of each SiPM can be identified using the time difference of arrival (TDOA) measurements. The proposed multiplexing can also allow simplification of the readout circuit using the time-to-digital converter (TDC) implemented in a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), where the time-over-threshold (ToT) is used to extract the energy information after multiplexing. In order to verify the proposed multiplexing method, we built a positron emission tomography (PET) detector that consisted of an array of 4  ×  4 LGSO crystals, each with a dimension of 3  ×  3  ×  20 mm3, and one- to-one coupled SiPM channels. We first employed the waveform sampler as an initial study, and then replaced the waveform sampler with an FPGA-TDC to further simplify the readout circuits. The 16 crystals were clearly resolved using only the time information obtained from the four readout channels. The coincidence resolving times (CRTs) were 382 and 406 ps FWHM when using the waveform sampler and the FPGA-TDC, respectively. The proposed simple multiplexing and readout methods can be useful for time-of-flight (TOF) PET scanners.

12 CFR 238.91 - Authority, purpose, and scope.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... SYSTEM (CONTINUED) SAVINGS AND LOAN HOLDING COMPANIES (REGULATION LL) Management Official Interlocks... situations where the management interlock likely would have an anticompetitive effect. (c) Scope. This... 12 Banks and Banking 4 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Authority, purpose, and scope. 238.91 Section...

A Modular Approach for Interlocking Enzymes in Whatman Paper.

PubMed

Riccardi, Caterina; Kumar, Challa; Kasi, Rajeswari; McCormick, Shelby

2018-06-13

We report a potentially universal approach for enzyme attachment to cellulose that significantly enhances enzyme stability while retaining high activity, and involves no chemical functionalization of cellulose. In our design, bovine serum albumin (BSA) was interlocked in cellulose to form a protein-friendly surface (named BSA-Paper), while also providing COOH and NH2 groups for subsequent attachment of enzymes. The desired enzyme is then mixed with additional BSA and interlocked on BSA-Paper. The 2nd layer dilutes and crosslinks the enzyme for improved stability. Laccase was tested as a model enzyme for interlocking on BSA-Paper, and was found to retain over 100% activity and was 240 times more stable at 25 °C (half life = 180 d) than laccase. This new approach was also tested with a few other enzymes with encouraging results, thus providing a potentially universal method for stabilization of enzymes on cellulose with retention of high activities. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Evaluation and application of a fast module in a PLC based interlock and control system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zaera-Sanz, M.

2009-08-01

The LHC Beam Interlock system requires a controller performing a simple matrix function to collect the different beam dump requests. To satisfy the expected safety level of the Interlock, the system should be robust and reliable. The PLC is a promising candidate to fulfil both aspects but too slow to meet the expected response time which is of the order of μseconds. Siemens has introduced a ``so called'' fast module (FM352-5 Boolean Processor). It provides independent and extremely fast control of a process within a larger control system using an onboard processor, a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), to execute code in parallel which results in extremely fast scan times. It is interesting to investigate its features and to evaluate it as a possible candidate for the beam interlock system. This paper publishes the results of this study. As well, this paper could be useful for other applications requiring fast processing using a PLC.

Variable stiffness sandwich panels using electrostatic interlocking core

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Heath, Callum J. C.; Bond, Ian P.; Potter, Kevin D.

2016-04-01

Structural topology has a large impact on the flexural stiffness of a beam structure. Reversible attachment between discrete substructures allows for control of shear stress transfer between structural elements, thus stiffness modulation. Electrostatic adhesion has shown promise for providing a reversible latching mechanism for controllable internal connectivity. Building on previous research, a thin film copper polyimide laminate has been used to incorporate high voltage electrodes to Fibre Reinforced Polymer (FRP) sandwich structures. The level of electrostatic holding force across the electrode interface is key to the achievable level of stiffness modulation. The use of non-flat interlocking core structures can allow for a significant increase in electrode contact area for a given core geometry, thus a greater electrostatic holding force. Interlocking core geometries based on cosine waves can be Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machined from Rohacell IGF 110 Foam core. These Interlocking Core structures could allow for enhanced variable stiffness functionality compared to basic planar electrodes. This novel concept could open up potential new applications for electrostatically induced variable stiffness structures.

Early Conversion of External Fixation to Interlocked Nailing in Open Fractures of Both Bone Leg Assisted with Vacuum Closure (VAC) - Final Outcome

PubMed Central

Raj, Manish; Kumar, Sunil; Singh, Pulkesh; Kumar, Dinesh; Singh, Jasveer; Deep, Akash

2016-01-01

Introduction Management of compound grade III fractures of both bone leg includes external stabilization for long period, followed by various soft tissue coverage procedures. Primary interlocking of tibia had been also done with variable results. External fixation for long time without any bone loss often leads to infected nonunion, loss of reduction, pin tract infection and failure of fixation, primary interlocking in compound grade III fractures had shown high medullary infection rate. We managed all cases of compound grade III A/B fractures with primary external fixation, simultaneous wound management using vacuum assisted closure (VAC) followed by early conversion to interlocking within 2 weeks of fixator application. Aim To determine the effectiveness of vacuum assisted closure (VAC) for the early conversion of external fixator to definitive interlocking in open fractures of the both bone leg. Materials and Methods In current study we selected 84 cases of compound grade IIIA/B diaphyseal fractures of both bone leg during period of May 2010 to September 2013. We managed these cases by immediate debridement and application of external fixation followed by repeated debridement, application of vacuum assisted closure (VAC) and conversion to interlocking within two weeks. Results Out of 84 cases union was achieved in 80(95%) of cases with definitive tibial interlocking. Excellent to good result were obtained in 77(91.8%) of cases and fair to poor result seen in rest of 7(8.2%) of cases according to modified Ketenjian’s criteria. 5 out of these 7 poor result group cases were from Compound Grade III B group to start with. Deep infection rate in our series were 7% i.e. total 6 cases and 4 out of these were from compound Grade III B group to start with. Conclusion Vacuum assisted closure (VAC) give a good help for rapid closure of the wound and help in early conversion to definitive intramedullary nailing. Reamed nail could well be used in compound grade IIIA/B fractures without increasing the risk of infection. It gives better stability to fracture site and lessen the risk of implant failure. PMID:27042541

The Neurobiology of Learning and Memory.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Thompson, Rihard F.

1986-01-01

Describes recent research findings in the area of neurobiology and its relationship to learning and memory. The article provides definitions of associative and nonassociative learning, identifies essential memory trace circuits of the mammalian brain, and discusses some neural mechanisms of learning. (TW)

Printed Graphene Derivative Circuits as Passive Electrical Filters

PubMed Central

Sinar, Dogan

2018-01-01

The objective of this study is to inkjet print resistor-capacitor (RC) low pass electrical filters, using a novel water-based cellulose graphene ink, and compare the voltage-frequency and transient behavior to equivalent circuits constructed from discrete passive components. The synthesized non-toxic graphene-carboxymethyl cellulose (G-CMC) ink is deposited on mechanically flexible polyimide substrates using a customized printer that dispenses functionalized aqueous solutions. The design of the printed first-order and second-order low-pass RC filters incorporate resistive traces and interdigitated capacitors. Low pass filter characteristics, such as time constant, cut-off frequency and roll-off rate, are determined for comparative analysis. Experiments demonstrate that for low frequency applications (<100 kHz) the printed graphene derivative circuits performed as well as the circuits constructed from discrete resistors and capacitors for both low pass filter and RC integrator applications. The impact of mechanical stress due to bending on the electrical performance of the flexible printed circuits is also investigated. PMID:29473890

Investigation of the Frequency Shift of a SAD Circuit Loop and the Internal Micro-Cantilever in a Gas Sensor

PubMed Central

Guan, Liu; Zhao, Jiahao; Yu, Shijie; Li, Peng; You, Zheng

2010-01-01

Micro-cantilever sensors for mass detection using resonance frequency have attracted considerable attention over the last decade in the field of gas sensing. For such a sensing system, an oscillator circuit loop is conventionally used to actuate the micro-cantilever, and trace the frequency shifts. In this paper, gas experiments are introduced to investigate the mechanical resonance frequency shifts of the micro-cantilever within the circuit loop(mechanical resonance frequency, MRF) and resonating frequency shifts of the electric signal in the oscillator circuit (system working frequency, SWF). A silicon beam with a piezoelectric zinc oxide layer is employed in the experiment, and a Self-Actuating-Detecting (SAD) circuit loop is built to drive the micro-cantilever and to follow the frequency shifts. The differences between the two resonating frequencies and their shifts are discussed and analyzed, and a coefficient α related to the two frequency shifts is confirmed. PMID:22163588

Printed Graphene Derivative Circuits as Passive Electrical Filters.

PubMed

Sinar, Dogan; Knopf, George K

2018-02-23

The objective of this study is to inkjet print resistor-capacitor ( RC ) low pass electrical filters, using a novel water-based cellulose graphene ink, and compare the voltage-frequency and transient behavior to equivalent circuits constructed from discrete passive components. The synthesized non-toxic graphene-carboxymethyl cellulose (G-CMC) ink is deposited on mechanically flexible polyimide substrates using a customized printer that dispenses functionalized aqueous solutions. The design of the printed first-order and second-order low-pass RC filters incorporate resistive traces and interdigitated capacitors. Low pass filter characteristics, such as time constant, cut-off frequency and roll-off rate, are determined for comparative analysis. Experiments demonstrate that for low frequency applications (<100 kHz) the printed graphene derivative circuits performed as well as the circuits constructed from discrete resistors and capacitors for both low pass filter and RC integrator applications. The impact of mechanical stress due to bending on the electrical performance of the flexible printed circuits is also investigated.

Development of pre pre-driver amplifier stage for generator of SST-1 ICRH system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumar, Sunil; Sinh Makwana, Azad; Srinivas, Y. S. S.; Kulkarni, S. V.; ICRH-RF Group

2010-02-01

The Ion Cyclotron Resonance Heating (ICRH) system for SST1 consists mainly of the cwrf power generator to deliver 1.5MW for 1000sec duration at the frequencies 22.8, 24.3 and 45.6±1MHz, the transmission line and the antenna. This is planned to develop a independent and dedicated cwrf generator that consists of a oscillator, buffer, rf switch, modulator, rf attenuator, directional coupler, three stage solid state low power amplifier and four stage triode & tetrode based high power amplifier with specific performance at 45.6±1MHz including frequencies 22.8 and 24.3±1MHz. The pre pre-driver high power amplifier stage is fabricated about triode 3CX3000A7. The tube has sufficient margin in terms of plate dissipation and grid dissipation that makes it suitable to withstand momentarily load mismatch and to upgrade the source in terms of output power later. This indigenously developed amplifier is integrated inside a radiation resistant rack with all required biasing power supplies, cooling blower, controls, monitors and interlocks for manual or remote control operation. This grounded grid mode amplifier will be operated at plate with 3.8KV/ 800mA in class AB for 1.8KW cwrf output power rating. The input circuit is broadband and the output circuit is tunable with slide variable inductor and a vacuum variable capacitor in the frequency range of 22.8 to 45.6MHz. It is designed for a gain of about 12dB, fabrication completed and undergoing cwrf power testing. This paper presents specifications, design criteria, circuit used, operating parameters, tests conducted and the results obtained.

30 CFR 75.819 - Motor-starter enclosures; barriers and interlocks.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Motor-starter enclosures; barriers and interlocks. 75.819 Section 75.819 Mineral Resources MINE SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF LABOR COAL MINE SAFETY AND HEALTH MANDATORY SAFETY STANDARDS-UNDERGROUND COAL MINES Underground High...

Motor vehicle ignition interlocks : in-vehicle devices that monitor alcohol levels of motor vehicle operators.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1990-01-01

This project was initiated at the request of the Department of Motor Vehicles as a response to House Joint Resolution 378 (1989). The resolution requested an evaluation of research studies on ignition interlocks and a determination of possible benefi...

12 CFR 711.5 - Small market share exemption.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 6 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Small market share exemption. 711.5 Section 711.5 Banks and Banking NATIONAL CREDIT UNION ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS AFFECTING CREDIT UNIONS MANAGEMENT OFFICIAL INTERLOCKS § 711.5 Small market share exemption. (a) Exemption. A management interlock...

Binding of anions in triply interlocked coordination catenanes and dynamic allostery for dehalogenation reactions† †Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Characterization data and additional tables and figures. CCDC 1515722 and 1515723. For ESI and crystallographic data in CIF or other electronic format see DOI: 10.1039/c7sc04070a

PubMed Central

Yang, Linlin; Jing, Xu; An, Bowen; Yang, Yang

2017-01-01

By synergistic combination of multicomponent self-assembly and template-directed approaches, triply interlocked metal organic catenanes that consist of two isolated chirally identical tetrahedrons were constructed and stabilized as thermodynamic minima. In the presence of suitable template anions, the structural conversion from the isolated tetrahedral conformers into locked catenanes occurred via the cleavage of an intrinsically reversible coordination bond in each of the tetrahedrons, followed by the reengineering and interlocking of two fragments with the regeneration of the broken coordination bonds. The presence of several kinds of individual pocket that were attributed to the triply interlocked patterns enabled the possibility of encapsulating different anions, allowing the dynamic allostery between the unlocked/locked conformers to promote the dehalogenation reaction of 3-bromo-cyclohexene efficiently, as with the use of dehalogenase enzymes. The interlocked structures could be unlocked into two individual tetrahedrons through removal of the well-matched anion templates. The stability and reversibility of the locked/unlocked structures were further confirmed by the catching/releasing process that accompanied emission switching, providing opportunities for the system to be a dynamic molecular logic system. PMID:29675152

Final report on a cold climate permeable interlocking concrete pavement test facility at the University of New Hampshire Stormwater Center.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-05-01

University of New Hampshire Stormwater Center (UNHSC) completed a two year field verification study of a permeable interlocking concrete pavement (PICP) stormwater management system. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the cold climate function...

12 CFR 563f.9 - Interlocking relationships permitted pursuant to Federal Deposit Insurance Act.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation pursuant to section 13(k)(1)(A)(v) of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act, as amended (12 U.S.C. 1823(k)(1)(A)(v)). ... 12 Banks and Banking 5 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Interlocking relationships permitted pursuant...

12 CFR 563f.9 - Interlocking relationships permitted pursuant to Federal Deposit Insurance Act.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation pursuant to section 13(k)(1)(A)(v) of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act, as amended (12 U.S.C. 1823(k)(1)(A)(v)). ... 12 Banks and Banking 5 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Interlocking relationships permitted pursuant...

12 CFR 212.5 - Small market share exemption.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Small market share exemption. 212.5 Section 212.5 Banks and Banking FEDERAL RESERVE SYSTEM BOARD OF GOVERNORS OF THE FEDERAL RESERVE SYSTEM MANAGEMENT OFFICIAL INTERLOCKS § 212.5 Small market share exemption. (a) Exemption. A management interlock...

Adaptive protection algorithm and system

DOEpatents

Hedrick, Paul [Pittsburgh, PA; Toms, Helen L [Irwin, PA; Miller, Roger M [Mars, PA

2009-04-28

An adaptive protection algorithm and system for protecting electrical distribution systems traces the flow of power through a distribution system, assigns a value (or rank) to each circuit breaker in the system and then determines the appropriate trip set points based on the assigned rank.

A Method to have Multi-Layer Thermal Insulation Provide Damage Detection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Woodward, Stanley E.; Taylor, Bryant D.; Jones, Thomas W.; Shams, Qamar A.; Lyons, Frankel; Henderson, Donald

2007-01-01

Design and testing of a multi-layer thermal insulation system that also provides debris and micrometeorite damage detection is presented. One layer of the insulation is designed as an array of passive open-circuit electrically conductive spiral trace sensors. The sensors are a new class of sensors that are electrically open-circuits that have no electrical connections thereby eliminating one cause of failure to circuits. The sensors are powered using external oscillating magnetic fields. Once electrically active, they produce their own harmonic magnetic fields. The responding field frequency changes if any sensor is damaged. When the sensors are used together in close proximity, the inductive coupling between sensors provides a means of telemetry. The spiral trace design using reflective electrically conductive material provides sufficient area coverage for the sensor array to serves as a layer of thermal insulation. The other insulation layers are designed to allow the sensor s magnetic field to permeate the insulation layers while having total reflective surface area to reduce thermal energy transfer. Results of characterizing individual sensors and the sensor array s response to punctures are presented. Results of hypervelocity impact testing using projectiles of 1-3.6 millimeter diameter having speeds ranging from 6.7-7.1 kilometers per second are also presented.

An improved instantaneous frequency meter for use with a multi-trace CRO: re-examination of the principles involved.

PubMed

Obara, S; Nagai, T

1983-01-01

The instantaneous frequency display of single unit discharges provides a useful measure of neuronal activities. Such a device must produce voltage outputs proportional to the reciprocal of each inter-spike interval by on-line computation of the hyperbola of V = a/t. Segment approximation of the required hyperbola can be made by a series of exponential functions which increase in time constants by a factor of m. Numerical analysis of a normalized function indicates possible error maxima of 3.4, 2.4 and 1.1% for m of 2, 1.8 and 1.5, respectively. This prediction is fully confirmed by the actual performance where m of 1.5 is adopted. The test circuit combines only readily available ICs and other components, to give a linear F-V conversion over a dynamic range of 4-600 Hz with error maxima of approximately 1%. The outputs are square pulses of approximately 1.5 ms in duration through the use of a flexible sample-hold circuit. Compared with that of earlier models, this display mode gives better photographic records with the base-line in simultaneous multi-trace display. Simple and systematic methods are described for designing a circuit to one's own specifications, and also for compensating for component variations.

Anatomical and functional evidence for trace amines as unique modulators of locomotor function in the mammalian spinal cord

PubMed Central

Gozal, Elizabeth A.; O'Neill, Brannan E.; Sawchuk, Michael A.; Zhu, Hong; Halder, Mallika; Chou, Ching-Chieh; Hochman, Shawn

2014-01-01

The trace amines (TAs), tryptamine, tyramine, and β-phenylethylamine, are synthesized from precursor amino acids via aromatic-L-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC). We explored their role in the neuromodulation of neonatal rat spinal cord motor circuits. We first showed that the spinal cord contains the substrates for TA biosynthesis (AADC) and for receptor-mediated actions via trace amine-associated receptors (TAARs) 1 and 4. We next examined the actions of the TAs on motor activity using the in vitro isolated neonatal rat spinal cord. Tyramine and tryptamine most consistently increased motor activity with prominent direct actions on motoneurons. In the presence of N-methyl-D-aspartate, all applied TAs supported expression of a locomotor-like activity (LLA) that was indistinguishable from that ordinarily observed with serotonin, suggesting that the TAs act on common central pattern generating neurons. The TAs also generated distinctive complex rhythms characterized by episodic bouts of LLA. TA actions on locomotor circuits did not require interaction with descending monoaminergic projections since evoked LLA was maintained following block of all Na+-dependent monoamine transporters or the vesicular monoamine transporter. Instead, TA (tryptamine and tyramine) actions depended on intracellular uptake via pentamidine-sensitive Na+-independent membrane transporters. Requirement for intracellular transport is consistent with the TAs having much slower LLA onset than serotonin and for activation of intracellular TAARs. To test for endogenous actions following biosynthesis, we increased intracellular amino acid levels with cycloheximide. LLA emerged and included distinctive TA-like episodic bouts. In summary, we provided anatomical and functional evidence of the TAs as an intrinsic spinal monoaminergic modulatory system capable of promoting recruitment of locomotor circuits independent of the descending monoamines. These actions support their known sympathomimetic function. PMID:25426030

Anatomical and functional evidence for trace amines as unique modulators of locomotor function in the mammalian spinal cord.

PubMed

Gozal, Elizabeth A; O'Neill, Brannan E; Sawchuk, Michael A; Zhu, Hong; Halder, Mallika; Chou, Ching-Chieh; Hochman, Shawn

2014-01-01

The trace amines (TAs), tryptamine, tyramine, and β-phenylethylamine, are synthesized from precursor amino acids via aromatic-L-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC). We explored their role in the neuromodulation of neonatal rat spinal cord motor circuits. We first showed that the spinal cord contains the substrates for TA biosynthesis (AADC) and for receptor-mediated actions via trace amine-associated receptors (TAARs) 1 and 4. We next examined the actions of the TAs on motor activity using the in vitro isolated neonatal rat spinal cord. Tyramine and tryptamine most consistently increased motor activity with prominent direct actions on motoneurons. In the presence of N-methyl-D-aspartate, all applied TAs supported expression of a locomotor-like activity (LLA) that was indistinguishable from that ordinarily observed with serotonin, suggesting that the TAs act on common central pattern generating neurons. The TAs also generated distinctive complex rhythms characterized by episodic bouts of LLA. TA actions on locomotor circuits did not require interaction with descending monoaminergic projections since evoked LLA was maintained following block of all Na(+)-dependent monoamine transporters or the vesicular monoamine transporter. Instead, TA (tryptamine and tyramine) actions depended on intracellular uptake via pentamidine-sensitive Na(+)-independent membrane transporters. Requirement for intracellular transport is consistent with the TAs having much slower LLA onset than serotonin and for activation of intracellular TAARs. To test for endogenous actions following biosynthesis, we increased intracellular amino acid levels with cycloheximide. LLA emerged and included distinctive TA-like episodic bouts. In summary, we provided anatomical and functional evidence of the TAs as an intrinsic spinal monoaminergic modulatory system capable of promoting recruitment of locomotor circuits independent of the descending monoamines. These actions support their known sympathomimetic function.

Microorganism Removal in Permeable Pavement Parking Lots ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Three types of permeable pavements (pervious concrete, permeable interlocking concrete pavers, and porous asphalt) were monitored at the Edison Environmental Center in Edison, New Jersey for indicator organisms such as fecal coliform, enterococci, and E. coli. Results showed that porous asphalt had much lower concentration in monitored infiltrate compared to pervious concrete and permeable interlocking concrete pavers. Concentrations of monitored organisms in infiltrate from porous asphalt were consistently below the bathing water quality standard. Fecal coliform and enterococci exceeded bathing water quality standards more than 72% and 34% of the time for permeable interlocking concrete pavers and pervious concrete, respectively. Purpose is to evaluate the performance of permeable pavement in removing indicator organisms from infiltrating stormwater runoff.

Interlocking intramedullary nailing in distal tibial fractures.

PubMed

Tyllianakis, M; Megas, P; Giannikas, D; Lambiris, E

2000-08-01

This retrospective study examined the results of non-pilon fractures of the distal part of the tibia treated with interlocking intramedullary nailing. Seventy-three patients with equal numbers of fractures treated surgically between 1990 and 1998 were reviewed. Mean patient age was 39.8 years, and follow-up averaged 34.2 months. The AO fracture classification system was used. Concomitant fractures of the lateral malleolus were fixed. All but three fractures achieved union within 4.2 months on average. Satisfactory or excellent results were obtained in 86.3% of patients. These results indicate interlocking intramedullary nailing is a reliable method of treatment for these fractures and is characterized by high rates of union and a low incidence of complications.

Novel Repair Concept for Composite Materials by Repetitive Geometrical Interlock Elements

PubMed Central

Hufenbach, Werner; Adam, Frank; Heber, Thomas; Weckend, Nico; Bach, Friedrich-Wilhelm; Hassel, Thomas; Zaremba, David

2011-01-01

Material adapted repair technologies for fiber-reinforced polymers with thermosetting matrix systems are currently characterized by requiring major efforts for repair preparation and accomplishment in all industrial areas of application. In order to allow for a uniform distribution of material and geometrical parameters over the repair zone, a novel composite interlock repair concept is introduced, which is based on a repair zone with undercuts prepared by water-jet technology. The presented numerical and experimental sensitivity analyses make a contribution to the systematic development of the interlock repair technology with respect to material and geometrical factors of influence. The results show the ability of the novel concept for a reproducible and automatable composite repair. PMID:28824134

Manifold seal structure for fuel cell stack

DOEpatents

Collins, William P.

1988-01-01

The seal between the sides of a fuel cell stack and the gas manifolds is improved by adding a mechanical interlock between the adhesive sealing strip and the abutting surface of the manifolds. The adhesive is a material which can flow to some extent when under compression, and the mechanical interlock is formed providing small openings in the portion of the manifold which abuts the adhesive strip. When the manifolds are pressed against the adhesive strips, the latter will flow into and through the manifold openings to form buttons or ribs which mechanically interlock with the manifolds. These buttons or ribs increase the bond between the manifolds and adhesive, which previously relied solely on the adhesive nature of the adhesive.

Raman study of bulk-heterojunction morphology in photoactive layers treated with solvent-vapor annealing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Onojima, Norio; Ishima, Yasuhisa; Izumi, Daisuke; Takahashi, Kazuyuki

2018-03-01

The effect of solvent-vapor annealing (SVA) on bulk-heterojunction morphology in photoactive layers composed of poly(3-hexylthiophene-2,5-diyl) (P3HT) and [6,6]-phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) was analyzed using Raman spectroscopy. We prepared the photoactive layers by electrostatic spray deposition (ESD) and fabricated organic photovoltaic devices with a conventional cell structure. Although postdeposition annealing can be omitted when the photoactive layer is deposited using ESD under dry condition, the surface is relatively rough owing to the existence of a number of droplet traces. The SVA treatment can eliminate such droplet traces, while excessive SVA resulted in a significant decrease in open-circuit voltage. The Raman study of the bulk-heterojunction morphology demonstrated the accumulation of P3HT molecules on the surface during SVA, which induced the recombination of photogenerated charges at the interface of the cathode/photoactive layer and thereby decreased the open-circuit voltage.

Cell type-specific long-range connections of basal forebrain circuit.

PubMed

Do, Johnny Phong; Xu, Min; Lee, Seung-Hee; Chang, Wei-Cheng; Zhang, Siyu; Chung, Shinjae; Yung, Tyler J; Fan, Jiang Lan; Miyamichi, Kazunari; Luo, Liqun; Dan, Yang

2016-09-19

The basal forebrain (BF) plays key roles in multiple brain functions, including sleep-wake regulation, attention, and learning/memory, but the long-range connections mediating these functions remain poorly characterized. Here we performed whole-brain mapping of both inputs and outputs of four BF cell types - cholinergic, glutamatergic, and parvalbumin-positive (PV+) and somatostatin-positive (SOM+) GABAergic neurons - in the mouse brain. Using rabies virus -mediated monosynaptic retrograde tracing to label the inputs and adeno-associated virus to trace axonal projections, we identified numerous brain areas connected to the BF. The inputs to different cell types were qualitatively similar, but the output projections showed marked differences. The connections to glutamatergic and SOM+ neurons were strongly reciprocal, while those to cholinergic and PV+ neurons were more unidirectional. These results reveal the long-range wiring diagram of the BF circuit with highly convergent inputs and divergent outputs and point to both functional commonality and specialization of different BF cell types.

Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Devices : Policy and Implementing Implications [Mobile .MP4 (480x320/29.97fps/13.9MB)

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-01-01

The goal of this project is to perform a systematic review of breath alcohol ignition interlock devices (BAIID or IID) to understand how other states have integrated such systems into administrative and judicial practice and to make recommendations f...

49 CFR 236.401 - Automatic block signal system and interlocking standards applicable to traffic control systems.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... TRAIN CONTROL SYSTEMS, DEVICES, AND APPLIANCES Traffic Control Systems Standards § 236.401 Automatic... 49 Transportation 4 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Automatic block signal system and interlocking standards applicable to traffic control systems. 236.401 Section 236.401 Transportation Other Regulations...

Patterns In Contingencies: The Interlocking of Formal and Informal Political Institutions in Contemporary Argentina

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Llamazares, Ivan

2005-01-01

This article explores how the interlocking of formal and informal political institutions has affected the dynamics and performance of the Argentine democracy. Key institutional features of the Argentine political system have been a competitive form of federalism, loosely structured and political parties that are not ideologically unified,…

49 CFR 236.326 - Mechanical locking removed or disarranged; requirement for permitting train movements through...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Mechanical locking removed or disarranged... § 236.326 Mechanical locking removed or disarranged; requirement for permitting train movements through interlocking. When mechanical locking of interlocking machine is being changed or is removed from the machine...

Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Devices : Policy and Implementing Implications [SD .MP4 (640x424/29.97fps/22.6MB)

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-01-01

The goal of this project is to perform a systematic review of breath alcohol ignition interlock devices (BAIID or IID) to understand how other states have integrated such systems into administrative and judicial practice and to make recommendations f...

12 CFR 26.5 - Small market share exemption.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Small market share exemption. 26.5 Section 26.5 Banks and Banking COMPTROLLER OF THE CURRENCY, DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY MANAGEMENT OFFICIAL INTERLOCKS § 26.5 Small market share exemption. (a) Exemption. A management interlock that is prohibited by § 26.3...

12 CFR 563f.5 - Small market share exemption.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 5 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Small market share exemption. 563f.5 Section 563f.5 Banks and Banking OFFICE OF THRIFT SUPERVISION, DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY MANAGEMENT OFFICIAL INTERLOCKS § 563f.5 Small market share exemption. (a) Exemption. A management interlock that is prohibited by...

Electrical detection of liquid lithium leaks from pipe joints.

PubMed

Schwartz, J A; Jaworski, M A; Mehl, J; Kaita, R; Mozulay, R

2014-11-01

A test stand for flowing liquid lithium is under construction at Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory. As liquid lithium reacts with atmospheric gases and water, an electrical interlock system for detecting leaks and safely shutting down the apparatus has been constructed. A defense in depth strategy is taken to minimize the risk and impact of potential leaks. Each demountable joint is diagnosed with a cylindrical copper shell electrically isolated from the loop. By monitoring the electrical resistance between the pipe and the copper shell, a leak of (conductive) liquid lithium can be detected. Any resistance of less than 2 kΩ trips a relay, shutting off power to the heaters and pump. The system has been successfully tested with liquid gallium as a surrogate liquid metal. The circuit features an extensible number of channels to allow for future expansion of the loop. To ease diagnosis of faults, the status of each channel is shown with an analog front panel LED, and monitored and logged digitally by LabVIEW.

Nanoarmoring of Enzymes by Interlocking in Cellulose Fibers With Poly(Acrylic Acid).

PubMed

Riccardi, Caterina M; Kasi, Rajeswari M; Kumar, Challa V

2017-01-01

A simple method for interlocking glucose oxidase (GOx) and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) in cellulose fibers using poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) as an armor around the enzyme, without any need for activation of the cellulose support, is reported here. The resulting enzyme paper is an inexpensive, stable, simple, wearable, and washable biosensor. PAA functions as a multifunctional tether to interlock the enzyme molecules around the paper fibers so that the enzymes are protected against thermal/chemical denaturation and not released from the paper when washed with a detergent. The decreased conformational entropy of the interlocked enzyme protected by the nanoarmor is likely responsible for increased enzyme stability to heat and chemical denaturants (retained ≥70 percent enzyme activity after washing with urea or SDS for 30min), and the polymer protects the enzyme against inactivation by proteases, bacteria, inhibitors, etc. The kinetics of the interlocked enzyme were similar to that of the enzyme in solution. The V max was 6(±0.5)mM per minute before washing, then increased slightly to 9(±1.4)mM per minute after washing with water. The K m was 22(±6.4mM), which was slightly higher compared to GOx in solution (25-27mM). Because the surface area of the paper does not limit the enzyme loading, about 20% of enzyme was successfully loaded onto the paper (0.2g enzyme per gram of paper), and ≥95% of the enzyme was retained after washing. Interlocking works with other enzymes such as laccase, where ≥60% of the enzyme activity is retained. This novel methodology provides a low cost, simple, modular approach of achieving high enzyme loadings in ordinary filter paper, not limited by cellulose surface area, and there has been no need for complex methods of enzyme engineering or toxic methods of activation of the solid support to prepare highly active biocatalysts. © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A Virtual Reality Visualization Tool for Neuron Tracing

PubMed Central

Usher, Will; Klacansky, Pavol; Federer, Frederick; Bremer, Peer-Timo; Knoll, Aaron; Angelucci, Alessandra; Pascucci, Valerio

2017-01-01

Tracing neurons in large-scale microscopy data is crucial to establishing a wiring diagram of the brain, which is needed to understand how neural circuits in the brain process information and generate behavior. Automatic techniques often fail for large and complex datasets, and connectomics researchers may spend weeks or months manually tracing neurons using 2D image stacks. We present a design study of a new virtual reality (VR) system, developed in collaboration with trained neuroanatomists, to trace neurons in microscope scans of the visual cortex of primates. We hypothesize that using consumer-grade VR technology to interact with neurons directly in 3D will help neuroscientists better resolve complex cases and enable them to trace neurons faster and with less physical and mental strain. We discuss both the design process and technical challenges in developing an interactive system to navigate and manipulate terabyte-sized image volumes in VR. Using a number of different datasets, we demonstrate that, compared to widely used commercial software, consumer-grade VR presents a promising alternative for scientists. PMID:28866520

A Virtual Reality Visualization Tool for Neuron Tracing.

PubMed

Usher, Will; Klacansky, Pavol; Federer, Frederick; Bremer, Peer-Timo; Knoll, Aaron; Yarch, Jeff; Angelucci, Alessandra; Pascucci, Valerio

2018-01-01

Tracing neurons in large-scale microscopy data is crucial to establishing a wiring diagram of the brain, which is needed to understand how neural circuits in the brain process information and generate behavior. Automatic techniques often fail for large and complex datasets, and connectomics researchers may spend weeks or months manually tracing neurons using 2D image stacks. We present a design study of a new virtual reality (VR) system, developed in collaboration with trained neuroanatomists, to trace neurons in microscope scans of the visual cortex of primates. We hypothesize that using consumer-grade VR technology to interact with neurons directly in 3D will help neuroscientists better resolve complex cases and enable them to trace neurons faster and with less physical and mental strain. We discuss both the design process and technical challenges in developing an interactive system to navigate and manipulate terabyte-sized image volumes in VR. Using a number of different datasets, we demonstrate that, compared to widely used commercial software, consumer-grade VR presents a promising alternative for scientists.

Refrigeration Controls: Electrical & Mechanical; Appliance Repair 3: 9027.02.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dade County Public Schools, Miami, FL.

This booklet outlines a course designed to equip major appliance service students with the fundamental knowledge and understanding of procedures, basic electrical circuitry, and nomenclatures of components necessary in successfully tracing a circuit and repairing or replacing a malfunctioning component. Course content includes goals, specific…

Documentation of Stainless Steel Lithium Circuit Test Section Design. Suppl

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Godfroy, Thomas J. (Compiler); Martin, James J.

2010-01-01

The Early Flight Fission-Test Facilities (EFF-TF) team was tasked by Naval Reactors Prime Contract Team (NRPCT) to design, fabricate, and test an actively pumped lithium (Li) flow circuit. This Li circuit takes advantage of work in progress at the EFF TF on a stainless steel sodium/potassium (NaK) circuit. The effort involved modifying the original stainless steel NaK circuit such that it could be operated with Li in place of NaK. This new design considered freeze/thaw issues and required the addition of an expansion tank and expansion/extrusion volumes in the circuit plumbing. Instrumentation has been specified for Li and circuit heaters have been placed throughout the design to ensure adequate operational temperatures and no uncontrolled freezing of the Li. All major components have been designed and fabricated prior to circuit redesign for Li and were not modified. Basic circuit components include: reactor segment, Li to gas heat exchanger, electromagnetic liquid metal pump, load/drain reservoir, expansion reservoir, instrumentation, and trace heaters. The reactor segment, based on a Los Alamos National Laboratory 100-kW design study with 120 fuel pins, is the only prototypic component in the circuit. However, due to earlier funding constraints, a 37-pin partial-array of the core, including the central three rings of fuel pins (pin and flow path dimensions are the same as those in the full design), was selected for fabrication and test. This Technical Publication summarizes the design and integration of the pumped liquid metal Li flow circuit as of May 1, 2005. This supplement contains drawings, analysis, and calculations

Documentation of Stainless Steel Lithium Circuit Test Section Design

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Godfroy, T. J.; Martin, J. J.; Stewart, E. T.; Rhys, N. O.

2010-01-01

The Early Flight Fission-Test Facilities (EFF-TF) team was tasked by Naval Reactors Prime Contract Team (NRPCT) to design, fabricate, and test an actively pumped lithium (Li) flow circuit. This Li circuit takes advantage of work in progress at the EFF TF on a stainless steel sodium/potassium (NaK) circuit. The effort involved modifying the original stainless steel NaK circuit such that it could be operated with Li in place of NaK. This new design considered freeze/thaw issues and required the addition of an expansion tank and expansion/extrusion volumes in the circuit plumbing. Instrumentation has been specified for Li and circuit heaters have been placed throughout the design to ensure adequate operational temperatures and no uncontrolled freezing of the Li. All major components have been designed and fabricated prior to circuit redesign for Li and were not modified. Basic circuit components include: reactor segment, Li to gas heat exchanger, electromagnetic liquid metal pump, load/drain reservoir, expansion reservoir, instrumentation, and trace heaters. The reactor segment, based on a Los Alamos National Laboratory 100-kW design study with 120 fuel pins, is the only prototypic component in the circuit. However, due to earlier funding constraints, a 37-pin partial-array of the core, including the central three rings of fuel pins (pin and flow path dimensions are the same as those in the full design), was selected for fabrication and test. This Technical Publication summarizes the design and integration of the pumped liquid metal Li flow circuit as of May 1, 2005.

Interlocking Toy Building Blocks as Hands-On Learning Modules for Blind and Visually Impaired Chemistry Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Melaku, Samuel; Schreck, James O.; Griffin, Kameron; Dabke, Rajeev B.

2016-01-01

Interlocking toy building blocks (e.g., Lego) as chemistry learning modules for blind and visually impaired (BVI) students in high school and undergraduate introductory or general chemistry courses are presented. Building blocks were assembled on a baseplate to depict the relative changes in the periodic properties of elements. Modules depicting…

49 CFR 1242.58 - Operating signals and interlockers, operating drawbridges, highway crossing protection (accounts...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... drawbridges, highway crossing protection (accounts XX-51-59, XX-51-60 and XX-51-61). 1242.58 Section 1242.58... Operating signals and interlockers, operating drawbridges, highway crossing protection (accounts XX-51-59, XX-51-60 and XX-51-61). Separate common expenses on the basis of total train hours (including train...

Using Interlocking Toy Building Blocks to Assess Conceptual Understanding in Chemistry

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Geyer, Michael J.

2017-01-01

A current emphasis on teaching conceptual chemistry via the particulate nature of matter has led to the need for new, effective ways to assess students' conceptual understanding of this view of chemistry. This article provides a simple, inexpensive way to use interlocking toy building blocks (e.g., LEGOs) in both formative and summative…

12 CFR 348.4 - Interlocking relationships permitted by statute.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... authorized on an emergency basis in accordance with section 13(k) of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act (12 U... 12 Banks and Banking 5 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Interlocking relationships permitted by statute... function; (b) A corporation operating under section 25 or section 25A of the Federal Reserve Act (12 U.S.C...

12 CFR 348.4 - Interlocking relationships permitted by statute.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... authorized on an emergency basis in accordance with section 13(k) of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act (12 U... 12 Banks and Banking 5 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Interlocking relationships permitted by statute... function; (b) A corporation operating under section 25 or section 25A of the Federal Reserve Act (12 U.S.C...

12 CFR 348.4 - Interlocking relationships permitted by statute.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... authorized on an emergency basis in accordance with section 13(k) of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act (12 U... 12 Banks and Banking 5 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Interlocking relationships permitted by statute... function; (b) A corporation operating under section 25 or section 25A of the Federal Reserve Act (12 U.S.C...

12 CFR 348.4 - Interlocking relationships permitted by statute.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... authorized on an emergency basis in accordance with section 13(k) of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act (12 U... 12 Banks and Banking 4 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Interlocking relationships permitted by statute... function; (b) A corporation operating under section 25 or section 25A of the Federal Reserve Act (12 U.S.C...

10. General view of site showing south side of Shell ...

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

10. General view of site showing south side of Shell Interlocking Tower and slope of railroad bed. View to north from unpaved service road extending from Bartels Place. - New York, New Haven, & Hartford Railroad, Shell Interlocking Tower, New Haven Milepost 16, approximately 100 feel east of New Rochelle Junction, New Rochelle, Westchester County, NY

27 CFR 70.416 - Application for approval of interlocking directors and officers under section 8 of the Federal...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... the appropriate TTB officer. Applications for such permission to take office must be prepared and... 27 Alcohol, Tobacco Products and Firearms 2 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Application for approval... Beer § 70.416 Application for approval of interlocking directors and officers under section 8 of the...

Quick-Change Optical-Filter Holder

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Leone, Peter

1988-01-01

Dark slide and interlock protect against ambient light. Quick-change filter holder contains interlocking mechanism preventing simultaneous removal of both dark slide and filter drawer. Designed for use with Band pass optical filters in 10 channels leading to photomultiplier tubes in water-vapor lidar/ozone instrument, mechanism can be modified to operate in other optical systems requiring optical change in filters.

On the dynamic nature of the engram: evidence for circuit-level reorganization of object memory traces following reactivation.

PubMed

Winters, Boyer D; Tucci, Mark C; Jacklin, Derek L; Reid, James M; Newsome, James

2011-11-30

Research has implicated the perirhinal cortex (PRh) in several aspects of object recognition memory. The specific role of the hippocampus (HPC) remains controversial, but its involvement in object recognition may pertain to processing contextual information in relation to objects rather than object representation per se. Here we investigated the roles of the PRh and HPC in object memory reconsolidation using the spontaneous object recognition task for rats. Intra-PRh infusions of the protein synthesis inhibitor anisomycin immediately following memory reactivation prevented object memory reconsolidation. Similar deficits were observed when a novel object or a salient contextual change was introduced during the reactivation phase. Intra-HPC infusions of anisomycin, however, blocked object memory reconsolidation only when a contextual change was introduced during reactivation. Moreover, disrupting functional interaction between the HPC and PRh by infusing anisomycin unilaterally into each structure in opposite hemispheres also impaired reconsolidation when reactivation was done in an altered context. These results show for the first time that the PRh is critical for reconsolidation of object memory traces and provide insight into the dynamic process of object memory storage; the selective requirement for hippocampal involvement following reactivation in an altered context suggests a substantial circuit level object trace reorganization whereby an initially PRh-dependent object memory becomes reliant on both the HPC and PRh and their interaction. Such trace reorganization may play a central role in reconsolidation-mediated memory updating and could represent an important aspect of lingering consolidation processes proposed to underlie long-term memory modulation and stabilization.

Habitus, social fields, and circuits in rural science education

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brandt, Carol B.; Shumar, Wesley; Hammond, Lorie; Carlone, Heidi; Kimmel, Sue; Tschida, Christina

2010-06-01

Schooling and science education are embedded within larger socio-cultural, political and economic contexts, influenced by global flows of capital, labor, ideas, and images. In this article we consider the ways in which ethnography traces the web of interactions (circuits), in a rural community and the ways that science inquiry was associated with character education. Our discussion examines the relationship between social fields, habitus, and meritocracy under new and ever-changing neoliberal conditions. These macro-level forces play out in everyday practices in the community and reveal schools, as well as science education, as sites for struggle.

Metals processing control by counting molten metal droplets

DOEpatents

Schlienger, Eric; Robertson, Joanna M.; Melgaard, David; Shelmidine, Gregory J.; Van Den Avyle, James A.

2000-01-01

Apparatus and method for controlling metals processing (e.g., ESR) by melting a metal ingot and counting molten metal droplets during melting. An approximate amount of metal in each droplet is determined, and a melt rate is computed therefrom. Impedance of the melting circuit is monitored, such as by calculating by root mean square a voltage and current of the circuit and dividing the calculated current into the calculated voltage. Analysis of the impedance signal is performed to look for a trace characteristic of formation of a molten metal droplet, such as by examining skew rate, curvature, or a higher moment.

Alternative carbohydrate reserves used in the daily cycle of crassulacean acid metabolism

Treesearch

C.C. Black; J.-Q. Chen; R.L. Doong; M.N. Angelov; Shi-Jean S. Sung

1996-01-01

Each day a massive interlocked biochemical cycle occurs in the green tissues of crassulacean acid metabolism plants.The function of this interlocked cycle, in its simplest context, is to furnish most of the CO2 for CAM plant photosynthesis.In this unified presentation our aims are (1) to divide CAM plants into two metabolic groups, (2) to...

Modelling the evolution of a bi-partite network Peer referral in interlocking directorates*

PubMed Central

Edling, Christofer

2010-01-01

A central part of relational ties between social actors are constituted by shared affiliations and events. The action of joint participation reinforces personal ties between social actors as well as mutually shared values and norms that in turn perpetuate the patterns of social action that define groups. Therefore the study of bipartite networks is central to social science. Furthermore, the dynamics of these processes suggests that bipartite networks should not be considered static structures but rather be studied over time. In order to model the evolution of bipartite networks empirically we introduce a class of models and a Bayesian inference scheme that extends previous stochastic actor-oriented models for unimodal graphs. Contemporary research on interlocking directorates provides an area of research in which it seems reasonable to apply the model. Specifically, we address the question of how tie formation, i.e. director recruitment, contributes to the structural properties of the interlocking directorate network. For boards of directors on the Stockholm stock exchange we propose that a prolific mechanism in tie formation is that of peer referral. The results indicate that such a mechanism is present, generating multiple interlocks between boards. PMID:24944435

Muscle spindle feedback directs locomotor recovery and circuit reorganization after spinal cord injury.

PubMed

Takeoka, Aya; Vollenweider, Isabel; Courtine, Grégoire; Arber, Silvia

2014-12-18

Spinal cord injuries alter motor function by disconnecting neural circuits above and below the lesion, rendering sensory inputs a primary source of direct external drive to neuronal networks caudal to the injury. Here, we studied mice lacking functional muscle spindle feedback to determine the role of this sensory channel in gait control and locomotor recovery after spinal cord injury. High-resolution kinematic analysis of intact mutant mice revealed proficient execution in basic locomotor tasks but poor performance in a precision task. After injury, wild-type mice spontaneously recovered basic locomotor function, whereas mice with deficient muscle spindle feedback failed to regain control over the hindlimb on the lesioned side. Virus-mediated tracing demonstrated that mutant mice exhibit defective rearrangements of descending circuits projecting to deprived spinal segments during recovery. Our findings reveal an essential role for muscle spindle feedback in directing basic locomotor recovery and facilitating circuit reorganization after spinal cord injury. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Reward signal in a recurrent circuit drives appetitive long-term memory formation.

PubMed

Ichinose, Toshiharu; Aso, Yoshinori; Yamagata, Nobuhiro; Abe, Ayako; Rubin, Gerald M; Tanimoto, Hiromu

2015-11-17

Dopamine signals reward in animal brains. A single presentation of a sugar reward to Drosophila activates distinct subsets of dopamine neurons that independently induce short- and long-term olfactory memories (STM and LTM, respectively). In this study, we show that a recurrent reward circuit underlies the formation and consolidation of LTM. This feedback circuit is composed of a single class of reward-signaling dopamine neurons (PAM-α1) projecting to a restricted region of the mushroom body (MB), and a specific MB output cell type, MBON-α1, whose dendrites arborize that same MB compartment. Both MBON-α1 and PAM-α1 neurons are required during the acquisition and consolidation of appetitive LTM. MBON-α1 additionally mediates the retrieval of LTM, which is dependent on the dopamine receptor signaling in the MB α/β neurons. Our results suggest that a reward signal transforms a nascent memory trace into a stable LTM using a feedback circuit at the cost of memory specificity.

Transsynaptic Mapping of Second-Order Taste Neurons in Flies by trans-Tango.

PubMed

Talay, Mustafa; Richman, Ethan B; Snell, Nathaniel J; Hartmann, Griffin G; Fisher, John D; Sorkaç, Altar; Santoyo, Juan F; Chou-Freed, Cambria; Nair, Nived; Johnson, Mark; Szymanski, John R; Barnea, Gilad

2017-11-15

Mapping neural circuits across defined synapses is essential for understanding brain function. Here we describe trans-Tango, a technique for anterograde transsynaptic circuit tracing and manipulation. At the core of trans-Tango is a synthetic signaling pathway that is introduced into all neurons in the animal. This pathway converts receptor activation at the cell surface into reporter expression through site-specific proteolysis. Specific labeling is achieved by presenting a tethered ligand at the synapses of genetically defined neurons, thereby activating the pathway in their postsynaptic partners and providing genetic access to these neurons. We first validated trans-Tango in the Drosophila olfactory system and then implemented it in the gustatory system, where projections beyond the first-order receptor neurons are not fully characterized. We identified putative second-order neurons within the sweet circuit that include projection neurons targeting known neuromodulation centers in the brain. These experiments establish trans-Tango as a flexible platform for transsynaptic circuit analysis. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Enhanced tamper indicator

DOEpatents

Garcia, Anthony R.; Johnston, Roger G.

2003-07-08

The present invention provides an apparatus and method whereby the reliability and tamper-resistance of tamper indicators can be improved. A flexible connector may be routed through a latch for an enclosure such as a door or container, and the free ends of the flexible connector may be passed through a first locking member and firmly attached to an insert through the use of one or more attachment members such as set screws. A second locking member may then be assembled in interlocking relation with the first locking member to form an interlocked assembly around the insert. The insert may have one or more sharp projections extending toward the first or second locking member so that any compressive force applied in an attempt to disassemble the interlocked assembly results in permanent, visible damage to the first or second locking member.

Thermal static bending of deployable interlocked booms

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Staugaitis, C. L.; Predmore, R. E.

1973-01-01

Metal ribbons processed with a heat-forming treatment are enabled to form tubelike structures when deployed from a roll. Deployable booms of this have been utilized for gravity-gradient stabilization on the RAE, ATS, and Nimbus D satellites. An experimental thermal-mechanics test apparatus was developed to measure the thermal static bending and twist of booms up to 3 meters long. The apparatus was calibrated by using the correlation between calculated and observed thermal bending of a seamless tube. Thermal static bending values of 16 interlocked deployable booms were observed to be within a factor of 2.5 of the values calculated from seamless-tube theory. Out-of-Sun-plane thermal bending was caused by complex heat transfer across the interlocked seam. Significant thermal static twisting was not observed.

EGaIn-Assisted Room-Temperature Sintering of Silver Nanoparticles for Stretchable, Inkjet-Printed, Thin-Film Electronics.

PubMed

Tavakoli, Mahmoud; Malakooti, Mohammad H; Paisana, Hugo; Ohm, Yunsik; Marques, Daniel Green; Alhais Lopes, Pedro; Piedade, Ana P; de Almeida, Anibal T; Majidi, Carmel

2018-05-29

Coating inkjet-printed traces of silver nanoparticle (AgNP) ink with a thin layer of eutectic gallium indium (EGaIn) increases the electrical conductivity by six-orders of magnitude and significantly improves tolerance to tensile strain. This enhancement is achieved through a room-temperature "sintering" process in which the liquid-phase EGaIn alloy binds the AgNP particles (≈100 nm diameter) to form a continuous conductive trace. Ultrathin and hydrographically transferrable electronics are produced by printing traces with a composition of AgNP-Ga-In on a 5 µm-thick temporary tattoo paper. The printed circuit is flexible enough to remain functional when deformed and can support strains above 80% with modest electromechanical coupling (gauge factor ≈1). These mechanically robust thin-film circuits are well suited for transfer to highly curved and nondevelopable 3D surfaces as well as skin and other soft deformable substrates. In contrast to other stretchable tattoo-like electronics, the low-cost processing steps introduced here eliminate the need for cleanroom fabrication and instead requires only a commercial desktop printer. Most significantly, it enables functionalities like "electronic tattoos" and 3D hydrographic transfer that have not been previously reported with EGaIn or EGaIn-based biphasic electronics. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Institutional Conflict of Interest: The Role of Interlocking Directorates in the Scientific Relationships between Universities and the Corporate Sector

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Slaughter, Sheila; Thomas, Scott L.; Johnson, David R.; Barringer, Sondra N.

2014-01-01

We examined the potential for institutional conflict of interest between the 26 private universities belonging to the Association of American Universities and the corporations to which they are tied through their boards of trustees. We were interested in the degree to which interlocks may have tightened over three points across an 11-year period…

Development of an enrofloxacin immunosensor based on label-free electrochemical impedance spectroscopy.

PubMed

Wu, Ching-Chou; Lin, Chia-Hung; Wang, Way-Shyan

2009-06-30

Enrofloxacin is the most widespread antibiotic in the fluoroquinolone family. As such, the development of a rapid and sensitive method for the determination of trace amounts of enrofloxacin is an important issue in the health field. The interaction of the enrofloxacin antigen to a specific antibody (Ab) immobilized on an 11-mercapto-undecanoic acid-coated gold electrode was quantified by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Two equivalent circuits were separately used to interpret the obtained impedance spectra. These circuits included one resistor in series with one parallel circuit comprised of a resistor and a capacitor (1R//C), and one resistor in series with two parallel RC circuits (2R//C). The results indicate that the antigen-antibody reaction analyzed using the 1R//C circuit provided a more sensitive resistance increment against the enrofloxacin concentration than that of the 2R//C circuit. However, the 2R//C circuit provided a better fitting for impedance spectra, and therefore supplies more detailed results of the enrofloxacin-antibody interaction, causing the increase of electron transfer resistance selectively to the modified layer, and not the electrical double layer. The antibody-modified electrode allowed for analysis of the dynamic linear range of 1-1000 ng/ml enrofloxacin with a detection limit of 1 ng/ml. The reagentless and label-free impedimetric immunosensors provide a simple and sensitive detection method for the specific determination of enrofloxacin.

The circuit parameters measurement of the SABALAN-I plasma focus facility and comparison with Lee Model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karimi, F. S.; Saviz, S.; Ghoranneviss, M.; Salem, M. K.; Aghamir, F. M.

The circuit parameters are investigated in a Mather-type plasma focus device. The experiments are performed in the SABALAN-I plasma focus facility (2 kJ, 20 kV, 10 μF). A 12-turn Rogowski coil is built and used to measure the time derivative of discharge current (dI/dt). The high pressure test has been performed in this work, as alternative technique to short circuit test to determine the machine circuit parameters and calibration factor of the Rogowski coil. The operating parameters are calculated by two methods and the results show that the relative error of determined parameters by method I, are very low in comparison to method II. Thus the method I produces more accurate results than method II. The high pressure test is operated with this assumption that no plasma motion and the circuit parameters may be estimated using R-L-C theory given that C0 is known. However, for a plasma focus, even at highest permissible pressure it is found that there is significant motion, so that estimated circuit parameters not accurate. So the Lee Model code is used in short circuit mode to generate the computed current trace for fitting to the current waveform was integrated from current derivative signal taken with Rogowski coil. Hence, the dynamics of plasma is accounted for into the estimation and the static bank parameters are determined accurately.

A Compact Cosmic Ray Telescope using Silicon Photomultipliers for use in High Schools

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Castro, Luis; Elizondo, Leonardo; Shelor, Mark; Cervantes, Omar; Fan, Sewan; Ritt, Stefan

2016-03-01

Over the years, the QuarkNet and the LBL Cosmic Ray Project have helped trained thousands of high school students and teachers to explore cosmic ray physics. To get high school students in the Salinas, CA area also excited about cosmic rays, we constructed a cosmic ray telescope as a physics outreach apparatus. Our apparatus includes a pair of plastic scintillators coupled to silicon photomultipliers (SiPM) and a coincidence circuit board. We designed and constructed custom circuit boards for mounting the SiPM detectors, the high voltage power supplies and coincidence AND circuit. The AND logic signals can be used for triggering data acquisition devices including an oscilloscope, a waveform digitizer or an Arduino microcontroller. To properly route the circuit wire traces, the circuit boards were layout in Eagle and fabricated in-house using a circuit board maker from LPKF LASER, model Protomat E33. We used a Raspberry Pi computer to control a fast waveform sampler, the DRS4 to digitize the SiPM signal waveforms. The CERN PAW software package was used to analyze the amplitude and time distributions of SiPM detector signals. At this conference, we present our SiPM experimental setup, circuit board fabrication procedures and the data analysis work flow. AIP Megger's Award, Dept. of Ed. Title V Grant PO31S090007.

Dysfunctional Autism Risk Genes Cause Circuit-Specific Connectivity Deficits With Distinct Developmental Trajectories.

PubMed

Zerbi, Valerio; Ielacqua, Giovanna D; Markicevic, Marija; Haberl, Matthias Georg; Ellisman, Mark H; A-Bhaskaran, Arjun; Frick, Andreas; Rudin, Markus; Wenderoth, Nicole

2018-07-01

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a set of complex neurodevelopmental disorders for which there is currently no targeted therapeutic approach. It is thought that alterations of genes regulating migration and synapse formation during development affect neural circuit formation and result in aberrant connectivity within distinct circuits that underlie abnormal behaviors. However, it is unknown whether deviant developmental trajectories are circuit-specific for a given autism risk-gene. We used MRI to probe changes in functional and structural connectivity from childhood to adulthood in Fragile-X (Fmr1-/y) and contactin-associated (CNTNAP2-/-) knockout mice. Young Fmr1-/y mice (30 days postnatal) presented with a robust hypoconnectivity phenotype in corticocortico and corticostriatal circuits in areas associated with sensory information processing, which was maintained until adulthood. Conversely, only small differences in hippocampal and striatal areas were present during early postnatal development in CNTNAP2-/- mice, while major connectivity deficits in prefrontal and limbic pathways developed between adolescence and adulthood. These findings are supported by viral tracing and electron micrograph approaches and define 2 clearly distinct connectivity endophenotypes within the autism spectrum. We conclude that the genetic background of ASD strongly influences which circuits are most affected, the nature of the phenotype, and the developmental time course of the associated changes.

Dissemination of the Phasor Method in Electrical Engineering in China

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zhang, Liangliang; Lei, Yinzhao

2014-01-01

Synchrophasors, widely used in the monitoring and analysis of power systems, evolved from the phasor method presented by Charles Proteus Steinmetz in 1893. The phasor method is a mathematical method for solving linear sinusoidal steady-state circuits and time-varying electromagnetic fields. This paper traces the history and diffusion of the phasor…

The Short but Very Curious Legal History of Michigan's Charter Schools.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Furst, Lyndon G.

1996-01-01

During its 1993 session, the Michigan legislature enacted two statutes for the organization and operation of public school academies, Michigan's name for charter schools. A circuit court judge declared the charter schools were unconstitutional. In response, the legislature amended its original enactment. Traces the short but curious history of…

Identification of neuroanatomic circuits from spinal cord to stomach in mouse: retrograde transneuronal viral tracing study.

PubMed

Ye, Da-Wei; Liu, Cheng; Tian, Xue-Bi; Xiang, Hong-Bing

2014-01-01

To determine the spinal innervation and neuronal connections is important for studying gastric carbohydrate metabolism and motor responses. Neurons involved in the efferent control of the stomach were identified following visualization of pseudorabies virus (PRV)-614 retrograde tracing. PRV-614 was injected into the ventral stomach wall in 13 adult C57BL/6J strain male mice. On the fifth day postinjection, animals were humanely sacrificed, and spinal cords were removed and sectioned, and processed for PRV visualization. The virus injected into the ventral stomach wall was specifically transported to the thoracic spinal cord. At 5 d after injection of the PRV-614, stomach enlargement and tissue edema were found, and PRV-614 positive cells were found in the intermediolateral cell column, the intercalates nucleus or the central autonomic nucleus of spinal cord segments T3 to L1, and major PRV-614 labeled cells were focused in the T6-10 segment. Our results revealed neuroanatomical circuits between stomach and the spinal intermediolateral cell column neurons.

Rapid and automatic speech-specific learning mechanism in human neocortex.

PubMed

Kimppa, Lilli; Kujala, Teija; Leminen, Alina; Vainio, Martti; Shtyrov, Yury

2015-09-01

A unique feature of human communication system is our ability to rapidly acquire new words and build large vocabularies. However, its neurobiological foundations remain largely unknown. In an electrophysiological study optimally designed to probe this rapid formation of new word memory circuits, we employed acoustically controlled novel word-forms incorporating native and non-native speech sounds, while manipulating the subjects' attention on the input. We found a robust index of neurolexical memory-trace formation: a rapid enhancement of the brain's activation elicited by novel words during a short (~30min) perceptual exposure, underpinned by fronto-temporal cortical networks, and, importantly, correlated with behavioural learning outcomes. Crucially, this neural memory trace build-up took place regardless of focused attention on the input or any pre-existing or learnt semantics. Furthermore, it was found only for stimuli with native-language phonology, but not for acoustically closely matching non-native words. These findings demonstrate a specialised cortical mechanism for rapid, automatic and phonology-dependent formation of neural word memory circuits. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Experimental and numerical analysis of interlocking rib formation at sheet metal blanking

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bolka, Špela; Bratuš, Vitoslav; Starman, Bojan; Mole, Nikolaj

2018-05-01

Cores for electrical motors are typically produced by blanking of laminations and then stacking them together, with, for instance, interlocking ribs or welding. Strict geometrical tolerances, both on the lamination and on the stack, combined with complex part geometry and harder steel strip material, call for use of predictive methods to optimize the process before actual blanking to reduce the costs and speed up the process. One of the major influences on the final stack geometry is the quality of the interlocking ribs. A rib is formed in one step and joined with the rib of the preceding lamination in the next. The quality of the joint determines the firmness of the stack and also influences its. The geometrical and positional accuracy is thus crucial in rib formation process. In this study, a complex experimental and numerical analysis of interlocking rib formation has been performed. The aim of the analysis is to numerically predict the shape of the rib in order to perform a numerical simulation of the stack formation in the next step of the process. A detailed experimental research has been performed in order to characterize influential parameters on the rib formation and the geometry of the ribs itself, using classical and 3D laser microscopy. The formation of the interlocking rib is then simulated using Abaqus Explicit. The Hilll 48 constitutive material model is based on extensive and novel material characterization process, combining data from in-plane and out-of-plane material tests to perform a 3D analysis of both, rib formation and rib joining. The study shows good correlation between the experimental and numerical results.

Genetic Approaches to Reveal the Connectivity of Adult-Born Neurons

PubMed Central

Arenkiel, Benjamin R.

2011-01-01

Much has been learned about the environmental and molecular factors that influence the division, migration, and programmed cell death of adult-born neurons in the mammalian brain. However, detailed knowledge of the mechanisms that govern the formation and maintenance of functional circuit connectivity via adult neurogenesis remains elusive. Recent advances in genetic technologies now afford the ability to precisely target discrete brain tissues, neuronal subtypes, and even single neurons for vital reporter expression and controlled activity manipulations. Here, I review current viral tracing methods, heterologous receptor expression systems, and optogenetic technologies that hold promise toward elucidating the wiring diagrams and circuit properties of adult-born neurons. PMID:21519388

The use of interlocking prostheses for both temporary and definitive management of infected periprosthetic femoral fractures.

PubMed

Konan, Sujith; Rayan, Faizal; Manketelow, Andrew R J; Haddad, Fares S

2011-12-01

Infected periprosthetic fractures around total hip arthroplasties are an extremely challenging problem. We describe our experience of managing infected periprosthetic femoral fractures using interlocking long-stem femoral prostheses either as temporary functional spacers or as definitive implants. The Cannulock (Orthodesign, Christchurch, United Kingdom) uncoated stem was used in 12 cases, and the Kent hip prosthesis (Biomet Merck, Bridgend, United Kingdom), in 5 cases. Satisfactory outcome was noted in all cases, and in 11 cases, revision to a definitive stem has been undertaken after successful control of infection and fracture union. The use of interlocking stems offers a relatively appealing solution for a complex problem and avoids the complications that would be associated with resection of the entire femur or the use of large quantities of bone cement. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Turbine component casting core with high resolution region

DOEpatents

Kamel, Ahmed; Merrill, Gary B.

2014-08-26

A hollow turbine engine component with complex internal features can include a first region and a second, high resolution region. The first region can be defined by a first ceramic core piece formed by any conventional process, such as by injection molding or transfer molding. The second region can be defined by a second ceramic core piece formed separately by a method effective to produce high resolution features, such as tomo lithographic molding. The first core piece and the second core piece can be joined by interlocking engagement that once subjected to an intermediate thermal heat treatment process thermally deform to form a three dimensional interlocking joint between the first and second core pieces by allowing thermal creep to irreversibly interlock the first and second core pieces together such that the joint becomes physically locked together providing joint stability through thermal processing.

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

Wu, Qiong; Rauscher, Phillip M.; Lang, Xiaolong

As the macromolecular version of mechanically interlocked molecules, mechanically interlocked polymers are promising candidates for the creation of sophisticated molecular machines and smart soft materials. Poly[n]catenanes, where the molecular chains consist solely of interlocked macrocycles, contain one of the highest concentrations of topological bonds. We report, herein, a synthetic approach toward this distinctive polymer architecture in high yield (similar to 75%) via efficient ring closing of rationally designed metallosupramolecular polymers. Light-scattering, mass spectrometric, and nuclear magnetic resonance characterization of fractionated samples support assignment of the high-molar mass product (number-average molar mass similar to 21.4 kilograms per mole) to a mixturemore » of linear poly[7-26]catenanes, branched poly[13-130]catenanes, and cyclic poly[4-7]catenanes. Increased hydrodynamic radius (in solution) and glass transition temperature (in bulk materials) were observed upon metallation with Zn2+.« less

Composites reinforced via mechanical interlocking of surface-roughened microplatelets within ductile and brittle matrices.

PubMed

Libanori, R; Carnelli, D; Rothfuchs, N; Binelli, M R; Zanini, M; Nicoleau, L; Feichtenschlager, B; Albrecht, G; Studart, A R

2016-04-12

Load-bearing reinforcing elements in a continuous matrix allow for improved mechanical properties and can reduce the weight of structural composites. As the mechanical performance of composite systems are heavily affected by the interfacial properties, tailoring the interactions between matrices and reinforcing elements is a crucial problem. Recently, several studies using bio-inspired model systems suggested that interfacial mechanical interlocking is an efficient mechanism for energy dissipation in platelet-reinforced composites. While cheap and effective solutions are available at the macroscale, the modification of surface topography in micron-sized reinforcing elements still represents a challenging task. Here, we report a simple method to create nanoasperities with tailored sizes and densities on the surface of alumina platelets and investigate their micromechanical effect on the energy dissipation mechanisms of nacre-like materials. Composites reinforced with roughened platelets exhibit improved mechanical properties for both organic ductile epoxy and inorganic brittle cement matrices. Mechanical interlocking increases the modulus of toughness (area under the stress-strain curve) by 110% and 56% in epoxy and cement matrices, respectively, as compared to those reinforced with flat platelets. This interlocking mechanism can potentially lead to a significant reduction in the weight of mechanical components while retaining the structural performance required in the application field.

Skin-Inspired Hierarchical Polymer Architectures with Gradient Stiffness for Spacer-Free, Ultrathin, and Highly Sensitive Triboelectric Sensors.

PubMed

Ha, Minjeong; Lim, Seongdong; Cho, Soowon; Lee, Youngoh; Na, Sangyun; Baig, Chunggi; Ko, Hyunhyub

2018-04-24

The gradient stiffness between stiff epidermis and soft dermis with interlocked microridge structures in human skin induces effective stress transmission to underlying mechanoreceptors for enhanced tactile sensing. Inspired by skin structure and function, we fabricate hierarchical nanoporous and interlocked microridge structured polymers with gradient stiffness for spacer-free, ultrathin, and highly sensitive triboelectric sensors (TESs). The skin-inspired hierarchical polymers with gradient elastic modulus enhance the compressibility and contact areal differences due to effective transmission of the external stress from stiff to soft layers, resulting in highly sensitive TESs capable of detecting human vital signs and voice. In addition, the microridges in the interlocked polymers provide an effective variation of gap distance between interlocked layers without using the bulk spacer and thus facilitate the ultrathin and flexible design of TESs that could be worn on the body and detect a variety of pressing, bending, and twisting motions even in humid and underwater environments. Our TESs exhibit the highest power density (46.7 μW/cm 2 ), pressure (0.55 V/kPa), and bending (∼0.1 V/°) sensitivities ever reported on flexible TESs. The proposed design of hierarchical polymer architectures for the flexible and wearable TESs can find numerous applications in next-generation wearable electronics.

Electrostatic Discharge Effects on Thin Film Resistors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sampson, Michael J.; Hull, Scott M.

1999-01-01

Recently, open circuit failures of individual elements in thin film resistor networks have been attributed to electrostatic discharge (ESD) effects. This paper will discuss the investigation that came to this conclusion and subsequent experimentation intended to characterize design factors that affect the sensitivity of resistor elements to ESD. The ESD testing was performed using the standard human body model simulation. Some of the design elements to be evaluated were: trace width, trace length (and thus width to length ratio), specific resistivity of the trace (ohms per square) and resistance value. However, once the experiments were in progress, it was realized that the ESD sensitivity of most of the complex patterns under evaluation was determined by other design and process factors such as trace shape and termination pad spacing. This paper includes pictorial examples of representative ESD failure sites, and provides some options for designing thin film resistors that are ESD resistant. The risks of ESD damage are assessed and handling precautions suggested.

III-V-on-Silicon Photonic Integrated Circuits for Spectroscopic Sensing in the 2-4 μm Wavelength Range.

PubMed

Wang, Ruijun; Vasiliev, Anton; Muneeb, Muhammad; Malik, Aditya; Sprengel, Stephan; Boehm, Gerhard; Amann, Markus-Christian; Šimonytė, Ieva; Vizbaras, Augustinas; Vizbaras, Kristijonas; Baets, Roel; Roelkens, Gunther

2017-08-04

The availability of silicon photonic integrated circuits (ICs) in the 2-4 μm wavelength range enables miniature optical sensors for trace gas and bio-molecule detection. In this paper, we review our recent work on III-V-on-silicon waveguide circuits for spectroscopic sensing in this wavelength range. We first present results on the heterogeneous integration of 2.3 μm wavelength III-V laser sources and photodetectors on silicon photonic ICs for fully integrated optical sensors. Then a compact 2 μm wavelength widely tunable external cavity laser using a silicon photonic IC for the wavelength selective feedback is shown. High-performance silicon arrayed waveguide grating spectrometers are also presented. Further we show an on-chip photothermal transducer using a suspended silicon-on-insulator microring resonator used for mid-infrared photothermal spectroscopy.

III–V-on-Silicon Photonic Integrated Circuits for Spectroscopic Sensing in the 2–4 μm Wavelength Range

PubMed Central

Wang, Ruijun; Vasiliev, Anton; Muneeb, Muhammad; Malik, Aditya; Sprengel, Stephan; Boehm, Gerhard; Amann, Markus-Christian; Šimonytė, Ieva; Vizbaras, Augustinas; Vizbaras, Kristijonas; Baets, Roel; Roelkens, Gunther

2017-01-01

The availability of silicon photonic integrated circuits (ICs) in the 2–4 μm wavelength range enables miniature optical sensors for trace gas and bio-molecule detection. In this paper, we review our recent work on III–V-on-silicon waveguide circuits for spectroscopic sensing in this wavelength range. We first present results on the heterogeneous integration of 2.3 μm wavelength III–V laser sources and photodetectors on silicon photonic ICs for fully integrated optical sensors. Then a compact 2 μm wavelength widely tunable external cavity laser using a silicon photonic IC for the wavelength selective feedback is shown. High-performance silicon arrayed waveguide grating spectrometers are also presented. Further we show an on-chip photothermal transducer using a suspended silicon-on-insulator microring resonator used for mid-infrared photothermal spectroscopy. PMID:28777291

Backshort-Under-Grid arrays for infrared astronomy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Allen, C. A.; Benford, D. J.; Chervenak, J. A.; Chuss, D. T.; Miller, T. M.; Moseley, S. H.; Staguhn, J. G.; Wollack, E. J.

2006-04-01

We are developing a kilopixel, filled bolometer array for space infrared astronomy. The array consists of three individual components, to be merged into a single, working unit; (1) a transition edge sensor bolometer array, operating in the milliKelvin regime, (2) a quarter-wave backshort grid, and (3) superconducting quantum interference device multiplexer readout. The detector array is designed as a filled, square grid of suspended, silicon bolometers with superconducting sensors. The backshort arrays are fabricated separately and will be positioned in the cavities created behind each detector during fabrication. The grids have a unique interlocking feature machined into the walls for positioning and mechanical stability. The spacing of the backshort beneath the detector grid can be set from ˜30 300 μm, by independently adjusting two process parameters during fabrication. The ultimate goal is to develop a large-format array architecture with background-limited sensitivity, suitable for a wide range of wavelengths and applications, to be directly bump bonded to a multiplexer circuit. We have produced prototype two-dimensional arrays having 8×8 detector elements. We present detector design, fabrication overview, and assembly technologies.

FRICTION STIR LAP WELDING OF ALUMINUM - POLYMER USING SCRIBE TECHNOLOGY

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

Upadhyay, Piyush; Hovanski, Yuri; Fifield, Leonard S.

2015-02-16

Friction Stir Scribe (FSS) technology is a relatively new variant of Friction Stir Welding (FSW) which enables lap joining of dissimilar material with very different melting points and different high temperature flow behaviors. The cutter scribe attached at the tip of FSW tool pin effectively cuts the high melting point material such that a mechanically interlocking feature is created between the dissimilar materials. The geometric shape of this interlocking feature determines the shear strength attained by the lap joint. This work presents first use of scribe technology in joining polymers to aluminum alloy. Details of the several runs of scribemore » welding performed in lap joining of ~3.175mm thick polymers including HDPE, filled and unfilled Nylon 66 to 2mm thick AA5182 are presented. The effect of scribe geometry and length on weld interlocking features is presented along with lap shear strength evaluations.« less

Interlocking directorates in Irish companies using a latent space model for bipartite networks

PubMed Central

Friel, Nial; Rastelli, Riccardo; Wyse, Jason; Raftery, Adrian E.

2016-01-01

We analyze the temporal bipartite network of the leading Irish companies and their directors from 2003 to 2013, encompassing the end of the Celtic Tiger boom and the ensuing financial crisis in 2008. We focus on the evolution of company interlocks, whereby a company director simultaneously sits on two or more boards. We develop a statistical model for this dataset by embedding the positions of companies and directors in a latent space. The temporal evolution of the network is modeled through three levels of Markovian dependence: one on the model parameters, one on the companies’ latent positions, and one on the edges themselves. The model is estimated using Bayesian inference. Our analysis reveals that the level of interlocking, as measured by a contraction of the latent space, increased before and during the crisis, reaching a peak in 2009, and has generally stabilized since then. PMID:27247395

Finite Element Analysis of Absorbable Sheath to Prevent Stress Shielding of Tibial Interlocking Intramedullary Nail

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dong, Yansheng; Wang, Yongqing; Dong, Limin; Jia, Peng; Lu, Fengcheng

2017-07-01

The nail with absorbable sheath (AS nail) is designed to reduce the stress shielding effect of internal fixation with interlocking intramedullary nail. In order to verify its feasibility, two types of the finite element models of internal fixation of tibia with the AS nail and the common metal nail (CM nail) are established using the Softwares of Mimics, Geomagic, SolidWorks and ANSYS according to the CT scanning data of tibia. The result of the finite element analysis shows that the AS nail has great advantages compared with the CM nail in reducing the stress shielding effect in different periods of fracture healing. The conclusion is that the AS nail can realize the static fixation to the dynamic fixation from the early to the later automatically to shorten the time of fracture healing, which also provides a new technique to the interlocking intramedullary nail.

Cradle and pressure grippers

DOEpatents

Muniak, John E.

2001-01-01

A gripper that is designed to incorporate the functions of gripping, supporting and pressure tongs into one device. The gripper has two opposing finger sections with interlocking fingers that incline and taper to form a wedge. The interlocking fingers are vertically off-set so that the opposing finger sections may close together allowing the inclined, tapered tips of the fingers to extend beyond the plane defined by the opposing finger section's engagement surface. The range of motion defined by the interlocking relationship of the finger sections allows the gripper to grab, lift and support objects of varying size and shape. The gripper has one stationary and one moveable finger section. Power is provided to the moveable finger section by an actuating device enabling the gripper to close around an object to be lifted. A lifting bail is attached to the gripper and is supported by a crane that provides vertical lift.

The application of CuAAC 'click' chemistry to catenane and rotaxane synthesis.

PubMed

Hänni, Kevin D; Leigh, David A

2010-04-01

The copper(I)-catalysed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (the CuAAC 'click' reaction) is proving to be a powerful new tool for the construction of mechanically interlocked molecular-level architectures. The reaction is highly selective for the functional groups involved (terminal alkynes and azides) and the experimental conditions are mild and compatible with the weak and reversible intermolecular interactions generally used to template the assembly of interlocked structures. Since the CuAAC reaction was introduced as a means of making rotaxanes by an 'active template' mechanism in 2006, it has proven effective for the synthesis of numerous different types of rotaxanes, catenanes and molecular shuttles by passive as well as active template strategies. Mechanistic insights into the CuAAC reaction itself have been provided by unexpected results encountered during the preparation of rotaxanes. In this tutorial review we highlight the rapidly increasing utility and future potential of the CuAAC reaction in mechanically interlocked molecule synthesis.

Design of responsive materials using topologically interlocked elements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Molotnikov, A.; Gerbrand, R.; Qi, Y.; Simon, G. P.; Estrin, Y.

2015-02-01

In this work we present a novel approach to designing responsive structures by segmentation of monolithic plates into an assembly of topologically interlocked building blocks. The particular example considered is an assembly of interlocking osteomorphic blocks. The results of this study demonstrate that the constraining force, which is required to hold the blocks together, can be viewed as a design parameter that governs the bending stiffness and the load bearing capacity of the segmented structure. In the case where the constraining forces are provided laterally using an external frame, the maximum load the assembly can sustain and its stiffness increase linearly with the magnitude of the lateral load applied. Furthermore, we show that the segmented plate with integrated shape memory wires employed as tensioning cables can act as a smart structure that changes its flexural stiffness and load bearing capacity in response to external stimuli, such as heat generated by the switching on and off an electric current.

Metal-organic frameworks with dynamic interlocked components

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vukotic, V. Nicholas; Harris, Kristopher J.; Zhu, Kelong; Schurko, Robert W.; Loeb, Stephen J.

2012-06-01

The dynamics of mechanically interlocked molecules such as rotaxanes and catenanes have been studied in solution as examples of rudimentary molecular switches and machines, but in this medium, the molecules are randomly dispersed and their motion incoherent. As a strategy for achieving a higher level of molecular organization, we have constructed a metal-organic framework material using a [2]rotaxane as the organic linker and binuclear Cu(II) units as the nodes. Activation of the as-synthesized material creates a void space inside the rigid framework that allows the soft macrocyclic ring of the [2]rotaxane to rotate rapidly, unimpeded by neighbouring molecular components. Variable-temperature 13C and 2H solid-state NMR experiments are used to characterize the nature and rate of the dynamic processes occurring inside this unique material. These results provide a blueprint for the future creation of solid-state molecular switches and molecular machines based on mechanically interlocked molecules.

FERMILAB CRYOMODULE TEST STAND RF INTERLOCK SYSTEM

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

Petersen, Troy; Diamond, J. S.; McDowell, D.

2016-10-12

An interlock system has been designed for the Fermilab Cryo-module Test Stand (CMTS), a test bed for the cryo- modules to be used in the upcoming Linac Coherent Light Source 2 (LCLS-II) project at SLAC. The interlock system features 8 independent subsystems, one per superconducting RF cavity and solid state amplifier (SSA) pair. Each system monitors several devices to detect fault conditions such as arcing in the waveguides or quenching of the SRF system. Additionally each system can detect fault conditions by monitoring the RF power seen at the cavity coupler through a directional coupler. In the event of amore » fault condition, each system is capable of removing RF signal to the amplifier (via a fast RF switch) as well as turning off the SSA. Additionally, each input signal is available for re- mote viewing and recording via a Fermilab designed digitizer board and MVME 5500 processor.« less

Interlocking directorates in Irish companies using a latent space model for bipartite networks.

PubMed

Friel, Nial; Rastelli, Riccardo; Wyse, Jason; Raftery, Adrian E

2016-06-14

We analyze the temporal bipartite network of the leading Irish companies and their directors from 2003 to 2013, encompassing the end of the Celtic Tiger boom and the ensuing financial crisis in 2008. We focus on the evolution of company interlocks, whereby a company director simultaneously sits on two or more boards. We develop a statistical model for this dataset by embedding the positions of companies and directors in a latent space. The temporal evolution of the network is modeled through three levels of Markovian dependence: one on the model parameters, one on the companies' latent positions, and one on the edges themselves. The model is estimated using Bayesian inference. Our analysis reveals that the level of interlocking, as measured by a contraction of the latent space, increased before and during the crisis, reaching a peak in 2009, and has generally stabilized since then.

Direct observation of interlocked domain walls and topological four-state vortex-like domain patterns in multiferroic YMnO{sub 3} single crystal

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

Tian, Lei; School of Materials Science and Engineering, Dalian Jiaotong University, Dalian, Liaoning 116028; Wang, Yumei, E-mail: wangym@iphy.ac.cn

2015-03-16

Using the advanced spherical aberration-corrected high angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscope imaging techniques, we investigated atomic-scale structural features of domain walls and domain patterns in YMnO{sub 3} single crystal. Three different types of interlocked ferroelectric-antiphase domain walls and two abnormal topological four-state vortex-like domain patterns are identified. Each ferroelectric domain wall is accompanied by a translation vector, i.e., 1/6[210] or −1/6[210], demonstrating its interlocked nature. Different from the four-state vortex domain patterns caused by a partial edge dislocation, two four-state vortex-like domain configurations have been obtained at atomic level. These observed phenomena can further extend our understandingmore » of the fascinating vortex domain patterns in multiferroic hexagonal rare-earth manganites.« less

Coupling p+n Field-Effect Transistor Circuits for Low Concentration Methane Gas Detection

PubMed Central

Zhou, Xinyuan; Yang, Liping; Bian, Yuzhi; Ma, Xiang; Chen, Yunfa

2018-01-01

Nowadays, the detection of low concentration combustible methane gas has attracted great concern. In this paper, a coupling p+n field effect transistor (FET) amplification circuit is designed to detect methane gas. By optimizing the load resistance (RL), the response to methane of the commercial MP-4 sensor can be magnified ~15 times using this coupling circuit. At the same time, it decreases the limit of detection (LOD) from several hundred ppm to ~10 ppm methane, with the apparent response of 7.0 ± 0.2 and voltage signal of 1.1 ± 0.1 V. This is promising for the detection of trace concentrations of methane gas to avoid an accidental explosion because its lower explosion limit (LEL) is ~5%. The mechanism of this coupling circuit is that the n-type FET firstly generates an output voltage (VOUT) amplification process caused by the gate voltage-induced resistance change of the FET. Then, the p-type FET continues to amplify the signal based on the previous VOUT amplification process. PMID:29509659

Organization of Functional Long-Range Circuits Controlling the Activity of Serotonergic Neurons in the Dorsal Raphe Nucleus.

PubMed

Zhou, Li; Liu, Ming-Zhe; Li, Qing; Deng, Juan; Mu, Di; Sun, Yan-Gang

2017-03-21

Serotonergic neurons play key roles in various biological processes. However, circuit mechanisms underlying tight control of serotonergic neurons remain largely unknown. Here, we systematically investigated the organization of long-range synaptic inputs to serotonergic neurons and GABAergic neurons in the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) of mice with a combination of viral tracing, slice electrophysiological, and optogenetic techniques. We found that DRN serotonergic neurons and GABAergic neurons receive largely comparable synaptic inputs from six major upstream brain areas. Upon further analysis of the fine functional circuit structures, we found both bilateral and ipsilateral patterns of topographic connectivity in the DRN for the axons from different inputs. Moreover, the upstream brain areas were found to bidirectionally control the activity of DRN serotonergic neurons by recruiting feedforward inhibition or via a push-pull mechanism. Our study provides a framework for further deciphering the functional roles of long-range circuits controlling the activity of serotonergic neurons in the DRN. Copyright © 2017 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Coupling p+n Field-Effect Transistor Circuits for Low Concentration Methane Gas Detection.

PubMed

Zhou, Xinyuan; Yang, Liping; Bian, Yuzhi; Ma, Xiang; Han, Ning; Chen, Yunfa

2018-03-06

Nowadays, the detection of low concentration combustible methane gas has attracted great concern. In this paper, a coupling p+n field effect transistor (FET) amplification circuit is designed to detect methane gas. By optimizing the load resistance ( R L ), the response to methane of the commercial MP-4 sensor can be magnified ~15 times using this coupling circuit. At the same time, it decreases the limit of detection (LOD) from several hundred ppm to ~10 ppm methane, with the apparent response of 7.0 ± 0.2 and voltage signal of 1.1 ± 0.1 V. This is promising for the detection of trace concentrations of methane gas to avoid an accidental explosion because its lower explosion limit (LEL) is ~5%. The mechanism of this coupling circuit is that the n-type FET firstly generates an output voltage ( V OUT ) amplification process caused by the gate voltage-induced resistance change of the FET. Then, the p-type FET continues to amplify the signal based on the previous V OUT amplification process.

Liquid oil and residual characteristics of printed circuit board recycle by pyrolysis.

PubMed

Lin, Kuo-Hsiung; Chiang, Hung-Lung

2014-04-30

Non-metal fractions of waste printed circuit boards (PCBs) were thermally treated (200-500°C) under nitrogen atmosphere. Carbon, hydrogen, and nitrogen were determined by elemental analyzer, bromine by instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA), phosphorus by energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDX), and 29 trace elements by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometer (ICP-AES) and mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) for raw material and pyrolysis residues. Organic compositions of liquid oil were identified by GC (gas chromatography)-MS, trace element composition by ICP system, and 12 water-soluble ions by IC (ionic chromatography). Elemental content of carbon was >450 mg/g, oxygen 300 mg/g, bromine and hydrogen 60 mg/g, nitrogen 30 mg/g, and phosphorus 28 mg/g. Sulfur was trace in PCBs. Copper content was 25-28 mg/g, iron 1.3-1.7 mg/g, tin 0.8-1.0mg/g and magnesium 0.4-1.0mg/g; those were the main metals in the raw materials and pyrolytic residues. In the liquid products, carbon content was 68-73%, hydrogen was 10-14%, nitrogen was 4-5%, and sulfur was less than 0.05% at pyrolysis temperatures from 300 to 500°C. Phenol, 3-bromophenol, 2-methylphenol and 4-propan-2-ylphenol were major species in liquid products, accounting for >50% of analyzed organic species. Bromides, ammonium and phosphate were the main species in water sorption samples for PCB pyrolysis exhaust. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Persistent activity in a cortical-to-subcortical circuit: bridging the temporal gap in trace eyelid conditioning

PubMed Central

Kalmbach, Brian; Chitwood, Raymond A.; Mauk, Michael D.

2012-01-01

We have addressed the source and nature of the persistent neural activity that bridges the stimulus-free gap between the conditioned stimulus (CS) and unconditioned stimulus (US) during trace eyelid conditioning. Previous work has demonstrated that this persistent activity is necessary for trace eyelid conditioning: CS-elicited activity in mossy fiber inputs to the cerebellum does not extend into the stimulus-free trace interval, which precludes the cerebellar learning that mediates conditioned response expression. In behaving rabbits we used in vivo recordings from a region of medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) that is necessary for trace eyelid conditioning to test the hypothesis that neurons there generate activity that persists beyond CS offset. These recordings revealed two patterns of activity during the trace interval that would enable cerebellar learning. Activity in some cells began during the tone CS and persisted to overlap with the US, whereas in other cells, activity began during the stimulus-free trace interval. Injection of anterograde tracers into this same region of mPFC revealed dense labeling in the pontine nuclei, where recordings also revealed tone-evoked persistent activity during trace conditioning. These data suggest a corticopontine pathway that provides an input to the cerebellum during trace conditioning trials that bridges the temporal gap between the CS and US to engage cerebellar learning. As such, trace eyelid conditioning represents a well-characterized and experimentally tractable system that can facilitate mechanistic analyses of cortical persistent activity and how it is used by downstream brain structures to influence behavior. PMID:21957220

Dysfunctional Autism Risk Genes Cause Circuit-Specific Connectivity Deficits With Distinct Developmental Trajectories

PubMed Central

Ielacqua, Giovanna D; Markicevic, Marija; Haberl, Matthias Georg; Ellisman, Mark H; A-Bhaskaran, Arjun; Frick, Andreas; Rudin, Markus; Wenderoth, Nicole

2018-01-01

Abstract Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a set of complex neurodevelopmental disorders for which there is currently no targeted therapeutic approach. It is thought that alterations of genes regulating migration and synapse formation during development affect neural circuit formation and result in aberrant connectivity within distinct circuits that underlie abnormal behaviors. However, it is unknown whether deviant developmental trajectories are circuit-specific for a given autism risk-gene. We used MRI to probe changes in functional and structural connectivity from childhood to adulthood in Fragile-X (Fmr1−/y) and contactin-associated (CNTNAP2−/−) knockout mice. Young Fmr1−/y mice (30 days postnatal) presented with a robust hypoconnectivity phenotype in corticocortico and corticostriatal circuits in areas associated with sensory information processing, which was maintained until adulthood. Conversely, only small differences in hippocampal and striatal areas were present during early postnatal development in CNTNAP2−/− mice, while major connectivity deficits in prefrontal and limbic pathways developed between adolescence and adulthood. These findings are supported by viral tracing and electron micrograph approaches and define 2 clearly distinct connectivity endophenotypes within the autism spectrum. We conclude that the genetic background of ASD strongly influences which circuits are most affected, the nature of the phenotype, and the developmental time course of the associated changes. PMID:29901787

Influence of the vacuum resin process, on the ballistic behaviour of lightweight armouring solutions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lefebvre, M.; Boussu, F.; Coutellier, D.; Vallee, D.

2012-08-01

The armour of vehicles against conventional threats is mainly composed with steel or aluminium panels. Efficient heavy solutions exist, but the involved industries require new lightweight structures. Moreover, unconventional threats as IEDs (Improvised Explosive Devices) may cause severe damages on these structural and protective panel solutions. Thus, combination of aluminium or steel plates with textile composite structures used as a backing, leads to the mass reduction and better performance under delamination behaviour against these new threats. This paper is a part of a study dealing with the impact behaviour of three warp interlocks weaving structures under Fragment Simulating Projectile (FSP) impact. During this research, several parameters has being studied as the influence of the yarns insertions [1-4], the degradation of the yarns during the weaving process [5-7], and the influence of the resin rate on the ballistic behaviour. The resin rate inside composite materials is dependant on the final application. In ballistic protection, we need to control the resin rate in order to have a deformable structure in order to absorb the maximum of energy. However, with the warp interlocks weaving structure, the yarns insertions induce empty spaces between the yarns where the resin takes place without being evacuated. The resin rate inside the warp interlocks structures is in the most of cases less than 50%, which lead to have brittle and hard material during the impact. Contrary to interlocks structures, the existing protection based on prepreg structure have a high fibres ratio around 88% of weight. That leads to have the best ballistic properties during the impact and good deformability of the structure. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the influence of the resin rate on the ballistic results of the composites materials. For that, we have chosen two kinds of warp interlocks fabrics which were infused with epoxy resin following two processes. The first is a classical vacuum resin infusion; the second used a press in order to reach a resin ratio near to the existing protection. The existing protection is a prepreg structure with a fibre content of 88%. It has been revealed that a resin rate less than 35% inside the warp interlocks composite material leads to have equivalent ballistics performances than existing protection.

Reinforcing the role of the conventional C-arm--a novel method for simplified distal interlocking.

PubMed

Windolf, Markus; Schroeder, Josh; Fliri, Ladina; Dicht, Benno; Liebergall, Meir; Richards, R Geoff

2012-01-25

The common practice for insertion of distal locking screws of intramedullary nails is a freehand technique under fluoroscopic control. The process is technically demanding, time-consuming and afflicted to considerable radiation exposure of the patient and the surgical personnel. A new concept is introduced utilizing information from within conventional radiographic images to help accurately guide the surgeon to place the interlocking bolt into the interlocking hole. The newly developed technique was compared to conventional freehand in an operating room (OR) like setting on human cadaveric lower legs in terms of operating time and radiation exposure. The proposed concept (guided freehand), generally based on the freehand gold standard, additionally guides the surgeon by means of visible landmarks projected into the C-arm image. A computer program plans the correct drilling trajectory by processing the lens-shaped hole projections of the interlocking holes from a single image. Holes can be drilled by visually aligning the drill to the planned trajectory. Besides a conventional C-arm, no additional tracking or navigation equipment is required.Ten fresh frozen human below-knee specimens were instrumented with an Expert Tibial Nail (Synthes GmbH, Switzerland). The implants were distally locked by performing the newly proposed technique as well as the conventional freehand technique on each specimen. An orthopedic resident surgeon inserted four distal screws per procedure. Operating time, number of images and radiation time were recorded and statistically compared between interlocking techniques using non-parametric tests. A 58% reduction in number of taken images per screw was found for the guided freehand technique (7.4 ± 3.4) (mean ± SD) compared to the freehand technique (17.6 ± 10.3) (p < 0.001). Total radiation time (all 4 screws) was 55% lower for the guided freehand technique compared to conventional freehand (p = 0.001). Operating time per screw (from first shot to screw tightened) was on average 22% reduced by guided freehand (p = 0.018). In an experimental setting, the newly developed guided freehand technique for distal interlocking has proven to markedly reduce radiation exposure when compared to the conventional freehand technique. The method utilizes established clinical workflows and does not require cost intensive add-on devices or extensive training. The underlying principle carries potential to assist implant positioning in numerous other applications within orthopedics and trauma from screw insertions to placement of plates, nails or prostheses.

Contextual signals in visual cortex.

PubMed

Khan, Adil G; Hofer, Sonja B

2018-06-05

Vision is an active process. What we perceive strongly depends on our actions, intentions and expectations. During visual processing, these internal signals therefore need to be integrated with the visual information from the retina. The mechanisms of how this is achieved by the visual system are still poorly understood. Advances in recording and manipulating neuronal activity in specific cell types and axonal projections together with tools for circuit tracing are beginning to shed light on the neuronal circuit mechanisms of how internal, contextual signals shape sensory representations. Here we review recent work, primarily in mice, that has advanced our understanding of these processes, focusing on contextual signals related to locomotion, behavioural relevance and predictions. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

D0 Central Tracking Solenoid Energization, Controls, Interlocks and Quench Protection Operating Procedures

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

Hance, R.; /Fermilab

1998-08-26

This procedure is used when it is necessary to operate the solenoid energization, controls, interlocks and quench detection system. Note that a separate procedure exists for operating the solenoid 'cryogenic' systems. Only D0 Control Room Operators or the Project Electrical Engineer are qualified to execute these procedures or operate the solenoid system. This procedure assumes that the operator is familiar with using the Distributed Manufacturing Automation and Control Software (DMACS).

[Clinical application of blocking screws and rooting technique in the treatment of distal tibial fracture with interlocking intramedullary nail].

PubMed

Zhu, Hai-Bing; Wu, Li-Guo; Fang, Zhi-Song; Luo, Cong-Feng; Wang, Qing-Feng; Ma, Yi-Ping; Gao, Hong; Fu, Guo-Hai; Hu, Cheng-Ting

2012-07-01

To introduce the clinical method of blocking screws and rooting technique in the treatment of distal tibial fracture with interlocking intramedullary nails. From June 2006 to March 2011, 26 patients with distal tibial fracture were treated with interlocking intramedullary nails using blocking screws and rooting technique, included 18 males and 8 females with an average age of 46.2 years old ranging from 24 to 64 years. According to AO classification: 10 cases of type A1, 4 cases of type A2, 8 cases of type B1, 4 cases of type B2. The average distance of the fractures end to the ankle joint was 85 mm ranging from 55 to 125 mm, the mean time between injured and operation was 4.5 days. The patients were evaluated with pain, range of motion, walking. All cases were followed-up for 6 to 22 months (averaged 15 months). According to Iowa ankle joint grading system,the score was improved from preoperative (66.8 +/- 8.2) to postoperative (94.6 +/- 4.8). All fractures had united, and got satisfactory reduction and stable fixation with no complications had happen such as breakage of screw. Fixation with interlocking intramedullary nail using blocking screws and rooting technique in treating distal tibial fracture, is a safe and effective technique for the improvement of stability.

Effects of Interlocking and Supporting Conditions on Concrete Block Pavements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mahapatra, Geetimukta; Kalita, Kuldeep

2018-02-01

Concrete Block Paving (CBP) is widely used as wearing course in flexible pavements, preferably under light and medium vehicular loadings. Construction of CBP at site is quick and easy in quality control. Usually, flexible pavement design philosophy is followed in CBP construction, though it is structurally different in terms of small block elements with high strength concrete and their interlocking aspects, frequent joints and discontinuity, restrained edge etc. Analytical solution for such group action of concrete blocks under loading in a three dimensional multilayer structure is complex and thus, the need of conducting experimental studies is necessitated for extensive understanding of the load—deformation characteristics and behavior of concrete blocks in pavement. The present paper focuses on the experimental studies for load transfer characteristics of CBP under different interlocking and supporting conditions. It is observed that both interlocking and supporting conditions affect significantly on the load transfer behavior in CBP structures. Coro-lock block exhibits better performance in terms of load carrying capacity and distortion behavior under static loads. Plate load tests are performed over subgrade, granular sub-base (GSB), CBP with and without GSB using different block shapes. For an example case, the comparison of CBP with conventional flexible pavement section is also presented and it is found that CBP provides considerable benefit in terms of construction cost of the road structure.

Modeling the injury prevention impact of mandatory alcohol ignition interlock installation in all new US vehicles.

PubMed

Carter, Patrick M; Flannagan, Carol A C; Bingham, C Raymond; Cunningham, Rebecca M; Rupp, Jonathan D

2015-05-01

We estimated the injury prevention impact and cost savings associated with alcohol interlock installation in all new US vehicles. We identified fatal and nonfatal injuries associated with drinking driver vehicle crashes from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System and National Automotive Sampling System's General Estimates System data sets (2006-2010). We derived the estimated impact of universal interlock installation using an estimate of the proportion of alcohol-related crashes that were preventable in vehicles < 1 year-old. We repeated this analysis for each subsequent year, assuming a 15-year implementation. We applied existing crash-induced injury cost metrics to approximate economic savings, and we used a sensitivity analysis to examine results with varying device effectiveness. Over 15 years, 85% of crash fatalities (> 59 000) and 84% to 88% of nonfatal injuries (> 1.25 million) attributed to drinking drivers would be prevented, saving an estimated $342 billion in injury-related costs, with the greatest injury and cost benefit realized among recently legal drinking drivers. Cost savings outweighed installation costs after 3 years, with the policy remaining cost effective provided device effectiveness remained above approximately 25%. Alcohol interlock installation in all new vehicles is likely a cost-effective primary prevention policy that will substantially reduce alcohol-involved crash fatalities and injuries, especially among young vulnerable drivers.

Modeling the Injury Prevention Impact of Mandatory Alcohol Ignition Interlock Installation in All New US Vehicles

PubMed Central

Flannagan, Carol A. C.; Bingham, C. Raymond; Cunningham, Rebecca M.; Rupp, Jonathan D.

2015-01-01

Objectives. We estimated the injury prevention impact and cost savings associated with alcohol interlock installation in all new US vehicles. Methods. We identified fatal and nonfatal injuries associated with drinking driver vehicle crashes from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System and National Automotive Sampling System’s General Estimates System data sets (2006–2010). We derived the estimated impact of universal interlock installation using an estimate of the proportion of alcohol-related crashes that were preventable in vehicles < 1 year-old. We repeated this analysis for each subsequent year, assuming a 15-year implementation. We applied existing crash-induced injury cost metrics to approximate economic savings, and we used a sensitivity analysis to examine results with varying device effectiveness. Results. Over 15 years, 85% of crash fatalities (> 59 000) and 84% to 88% of nonfatal injuries (> 1.25 million) attributed to drinking drivers would be prevented, saving an estimated $342 billion in injury-related costs, with the greatest injury and cost benefit realized among recently legal drinking drivers. Cost savings outweighed installation costs after 3 years, with the policy remaining cost effective provided device effectiveness remained above approximately 25%. Conclusions. Alcohol interlock installation in all new vehicles is likely a cost-effective primary prevention policy that will substantially reduce alcohol-involved crash fatalities and injuries, especially among young vulnerable drivers. PMID:25790385

Achieving interlocking nails without using an image intensifier

PubMed Central

Ogunlusi, Johnson D.; Ine, Henry R.

2006-01-01

Interlocking nails are commonly performed using an image intensifier. These are expensive and are not readily available in most resource-poor countries of the world. The aim of this study was to achieve interlocking nailing without the use of an image intensifier. This is a prospective descriptive analysis of 40 consecutive cases seen with shaft fractures of the humerus, femur, and tibia. Fracture fixation was done using Surgical Implant Generation Network (SIGN) nails. Forty limbs in 34 patients were studied. There were 12 females and 22 males, giving a ratio of 1:2. The mean age (years) was 35.75±13.16 and the range was 17–70 years. The studied bones were: humerus 10%, femur 65%, and tibia 25%. The fracture lines were: transverse 40%, oblique 15%, and communited 45%. Fracture grades were: closed 90%, grade I, 5%, grade II, 2.5%, and grade IIIA, 2.5%. Surgical approaches were: antegrade 62.5% and retrograde 37.5%. Indications for fixation were: recent fracture 92.5%, non-union 5%, and malunion 3%. Methods of reductions were: open 85% and closed 15%. The mean follow-up period (years) was 1.50±0.78. The union time averaged 3 months. Complication was mainly screw loosening due to severe osteoporoses in one case. It is, therefore, concluded that, with the aid of external jigs and slot finders, interlocking can be achieved without an image intensifier. PMID:17039384

A nanofiber based artificial electronic skin with high pressure sensitivity and 3D conformability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhong, Weibin; Liu, Qiongzhen; Wu, Yongzhi; Wang, Yuedan; Qing, Xing; Li, Mufang; Liu, Ke; Wang, Wenwen; Wang, Dong

2016-06-01

Pressure sensors with 3D conformability are highly desirable components for artificial electronic skin or e-textiles that can mimic natural skin, especially for application in real-time monitoring of human physiological signals. Here, a nanofiber based electronic skin with ultra-high pressure sensitivity and 3D conformability is designed and built by interlocking two elastic patterned nanofibrous membranes. The patterned membrane is facilely prepared by casting conductive nanofiber ink into a silicon mould to form an array of semi-spheroid-like protuberances. The protuberances composed of intertwined elastic POE nanofibers and PPy@PVA-co-PE nanofibers afford a tunable effective elastic modulus that is capable of capturing varied strains and stresses, thereby contributing to a high sensitivity for pressure sensing. This electronic skin-like sensor demonstrates an ultra-high sensitivity (1.24 kPa-1) below 150 Pa with a detection limit as low as about 1.3 Pa. The pixelated sensor array and a RGB-LED light are then assembled into a circuit and show a feasibility for visual detection of spatial pressure. Furthermore, a nanofiber based proof-of-concept wireless pressure sensor with a bluetooth module as a signal transmitter is proposed and has demonstrated great promise for wireless monitoring of human physiological signals, indicating a potential for large scale wearable electronic devices or e-skin.Pressure sensors with 3D conformability are highly desirable components for artificial electronic skin or e-textiles that can mimic natural skin, especially for application in real-time monitoring of human physiological signals. Here, a nanofiber based electronic skin with ultra-high pressure sensitivity and 3D conformability is designed and built by interlocking two elastic patterned nanofibrous membranes. The patterned membrane is facilely prepared by casting conductive nanofiber ink into a silicon mould to form an array of semi-spheroid-like protuberances. The protuberances composed of intertwined elastic POE nanofibers and PPy@PVA-co-PE nanofibers afford a tunable effective elastic modulus that is capable of capturing varied strains and stresses, thereby contributing to a high sensitivity for pressure sensing. This electronic skin-like sensor demonstrates an ultra-high sensitivity (1.24 kPa-1) below 150 Pa with a detection limit as low as about 1.3 Pa. The pixelated sensor array and a RGB-LED light are then assembled into a circuit and show a feasibility for visual detection of spatial pressure. Furthermore, a nanofiber based proof-of-concept wireless pressure sensor with a bluetooth module as a signal transmitter is proposed and has demonstrated great promise for wireless monitoring of human physiological signals, indicating a potential for large scale wearable electronic devices or e-skin. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c6nr02678h

The Molecular Basis of Memory

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

We propose a tripartite biochemical mechanism for memory. Three physiologic components are involved, namely, the neuron (individual and circuit), the surrounding neural extracellular matrix, and the various trace metals distributed within the matrix. The binding of a metal cation affects a corresponding nanostructure (shrinking, twisting, expansion) and dielectric sensibility of the chelating node (address) within the matrix lattice, sensed by the neuron. The neural extracellular matrix serves as an electro-elastic lattice, wherein neurons manipulate multiple trace metals (n > 10) to encode, store, and decode coginive information. The proposed mechanism explains brains low energy requirements and high rates of storage capacity described in multiples of Avogadro number (NA = 6 × 1023). Supportive evidence correlates memory loss to trace metal toxicity or deficiency, or breakdown in the delivery/transport of metals to the matrix, or its degradation. Inherited diseases revolving around dysfunctional trace metal metabolism and memory dysfunction, include Alzheimer's disease (Al, Zn, Fe), Wilson’s disease (Cu), thalassemia (Fe), and autism (metallothionein). The tripartite mechanism points to the electro-elastic interactions of neurons with trace metals distributed within the neural extracellular matrix, as the molecular underpinning of “synaptic plasticity” affecting short-term memory, long-term memory, and forgetting. PMID:23050060

Neural circuit basis of visuo-spatial working memory precision: a computational and behavioral study.

PubMed

Almeida, Rita; Barbosa, João; Compte, Albert

2015-09-01

The amount of information that can be retained in working memory (WM) is limited. Limitations of WM capacity have been the subject of intense research, especially in trying to specify algorithmic models for WM. Comparatively, neural circuit perspectives have barely been used to test WM limitations in behavioral experiments. Here we used a neuronal microcircuit model for visuo-spatial WM (vsWM) to investigate memory of several items. The model assumes that there is a topographic organization of the circuit responsible for spatial memory retention. This assumption leads to specific predictions, which we tested in behavioral experiments. According to the model, nearby locations should be recalled with a bias, as if the two memory traces showed attraction or repulsion during the delay period depending on distance. Another prediction is that the previously reported loss of memory precision for an increasing number of memory items (memory load) should vanish when the distances between items are controlled for. Both predictions were confirmed experimentally. Taken together, our findings provide support for a topographic neural circuit organization of vsWM, they suggest that interference between similar memories underlies some WM limitations, and they put forward a circuit-based explanation that reconciles previous conflicting results on the dependence of WM precision with load. Copyright © 2015 the American Physiological Society.

Design, Fabrication and Testing of Tunable RF Meta-atoms

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-06-14

Simple cantilever beam with actuation pad covered with a thin dielectric layer for short circuit protection...Cantilever actuation simulated with CoventorWare ® to determine the biasing voltage necessary to draw the cantilevers to the actuation pads ...Capacitive tunable meta-atom fabricated on quartz substrate. The meta-atom had to be cut at the metal trace leading to the cantilever actuation pads

Self-Assembled Molecular Gear: A 4:1 Complex of Rh(III)Cl Tetraarylporphyrin and Tetra(p-pyridyl)cavitand.

PubMed

Nakamura, Munechika; Kishimoto, Kazuki; Kobori, Yasuhiro; Abe, Tomoka; Yoza, Kenji; Kobayashi, Kenji

2016-09-28

The components of a 4:1 mixture of Rh(III)Cl tetrakis(4-methylphenyl)porphyrin 1 and a bowl-shaped tetra(4-pyridyl)cavitand 4 self-assemble into a 4:1 complex 14•4 via Rh-pyridyl axial coordination bonds. The single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis and variable-temperature (VT) (1)H NMR study of 14•4 indicated that 14•4 behaves as a quadruple interlocking gear with an inner space, wherein (i) four subunits-1 are gear wheels and four p-pyridyl groups in subunit-4 are axes of gear wheels, (ii) one subunit-1 and two adjacent subunits-1 interlock with one another cooperatively, and (iii) four subunits-1 in 14•4 rotate quickly at 298 K on the NMR time scale. Together, the extremely strong porphyrin-Rh-pyridyl axial coordination bond, the rigidity of the methylene-bridge cavitand as a scaffold of the pyridyl axes, and the cruciform arrangement of the interdigitating p-tolyl groups as the teeth moiety of the gear wheels in the assembling 14-unit make 14•4 function as a quadruple interlocking gear in solution. The gear function of 14•4 was also supported by the rotation behaviors of other 4:1 complexes: 24•4 and 34•4 obtained from Rh(III)Cl tetrakis[4-(4-methylphenyl)phenyl]porphyrin 2 or Rh(III)Cl tetrakis(3,5-dialkoxyphenyl)porphyrin 3 and 4 also served as quadruple interlocking gears, whereas 14•5 obtained from 1 and tetrakis[4-(4-pyridyl)phenyl]cavitand 5 did not behave as a gear. The results of activation parameters (ΔH(⧧), ΔS(⧧), and ΔG(⧧)) obtained from Eyring plots based on line-shape analysis of the VT (1)H NMR spectra of 14•4, 24•4, and 34•4 also support the interlocking rotation (geared coupled rotation) mechanism.

Developing and validating trace fear conditioning protocols in C57BL/6 mice.

PubMed

Burman, Michael A; Simmons, Cassandra A; Hughes, Miles; Lei, Lei

2014-01-30

Classical fear conditioning is commonly used to study the biology of fear, anxiety and memory. Previous research demonstrated that delay conditioning requires a neural circuit involving the amygdala, but not usually the hippocampus. Trace and contextual fear conditioning require the amygdala and hippocampus. While these paradigms were developed primarily using rat models, they are increasingly being used in mice. The current studies develop trace fear conditioning and control paradigms to allow for the assessment of trace and delay fear conditioning in C57BL/6N mice. Our initial protocol yielded clear delay and contextual conditioning. However, trace conditioning failed to differentiate from an unpaired group and was not hippocampus-dependent. These results suggested that the protocol needed to be modified to specifically accommodate trace conditioning the mice. In order to reduce unconditioned freezing and increase learning, the final protocol was developed by decreasing the intensity of the tone and by increasing the inter-trial interval. Our final protocol produced trace conditioned freezing that was significantly greater than that followed unpaired stimulus exposure and was disrupted by hippocampus lesions. A review of the literature produced 90 articles using trace conditioning in mice. Few of those articles used any kind of behavioral control group, which is required to rule out non-associative factors causing fearful behavior. Fewer used unpaired groups involving tones and shocks within a session, which is the optimal control group. Our final trace conditioning protocol can be used in future studies examining genetically modified C57BL/6N mice. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Developing and Validating Trace Fear Conditioning Protocols in C57BL/6 Mice

PubMed Central

Burman, Michael A; Simmons, Cassandra A; Hughes, Miles; Lei, Lei

2013-01-01

Background Classical fear conditioning is commonly used to study the biology of fear, anxiety and memory. Previous research demonstrated that delay conditioning requires a neural circuit involving the amygdala, but not usually the hippocampus. Trace and contextual fear conditioning require the amygdala and hippocampus. While these paradigms were developed primarily using rat models, they are increasingly being used in mice. New Method The current studies develop trace fear conditioning and control paradigms to allow for the assessment of trace and delay fear conditioning in C57BL/6N mice. Our initial protocol yielded clear delay and contextual conditioning. However, trace conditioning failed to differentiate from an unpaired group and was not hippocampus-dependent. These results suggested that the protocol needed to be modified to specifically accommodate trace conditioning the mice. In order to reduce unconditioned freezing and increase learning, the final protocol was developed by decreasing the intensity of the tone and by increasing the inter-trial interval. Results Our final protocol produced trace conditioned freezing that was significantly greater than that followed unpaired stimulus exposure and was disrupted by hippocampus lesions. Comparison with Existing Methods A review of the literature produced 90 articles using trace conditioning in mice. Few of those articles used any kind of behavioral control group, which is required to rule out non-associative factors causing fearful behavior. Fewer used unpaired groups involving tones and shocks within a session, which is the optimal control group. Conclusions Our final trace conditioning protocol can be used in future studies examining genetically modified C57BL/6N mice. PMID:24269252

A Nonfullerene Small Molecule Acceptor with 3D Interlocking Geometry Enabling Efficient Organic Solar Cells.

PubMed

Lee, Jaewon; Singh, Ranbir; Sin, Dong Hun; Kim, Heung Gyu; Song, Kyu Chan; Cho, Kilwon

2016-01-06

A new 3D nonfullerene small-molecule acceptor is reported. The 3D interlocking geometry of the small-molecule acceptor enables uniform molecular conformation and strong intermolecular connectivity, facilitating favorable nanoscale phase separation and electron charge transfer. By employing both a novel polymer donor and a nonfullerene small-molecule acceptor in the solution-processed organic solar cells, a high-power conversion efficiency of close to 6% is demonstrated. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Friction stir welding tool and process for welding dissimilar materials

DOEpatents

Hovanski, Yuri; Grant, Glenn J; Jana, Saumyadeep; Mattlin, Karl F

2013-05-07

A friction stir welding tool and process for lap welding dissimilar materials are detailed. The invention includes a cutter scribe that penetrates and extrudes a first material of a lap weld stack to a preselected depth and further cuts a second material to provide a beneficial geometry defined by a plurality of mechanically interlocking features. The tool backfills the interlocking features generating a lap weld across the length of the interface between the dissimilar materials that enhances the shear strength of the lap weld.

Coalescence of 3-phenyl-propynenitrile on Cu(111) into interlocking pinwheel chains

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luo, Miaomiao; Lu, Wenhao; Kim, Daeho; Chu, Eric; Wyrick, Jon; Holzke, Connor; Salib, Daniel; Cohen, Kamelia D.; Cheng, Zhihai; Sun, Dezheng; Zhu, Yeming; Einstein, T. L.; Bartels, Ludwig

2011-10-01

3-phenyl-propynenitrile (PPN) adsorbs on Cu(111) in a hexagonal network of molecular trimers formed through intermolecular interaction of the cyano group of one molecule with the aromatic ring of its neighbor. Heptamers of trimers coalesce into interlocking pinwheel-shaped structures that, by percolating across islands of the original trimer coverage, create the appearance of gear chains. Density functional theory aids in identifying substrate stress associated with the chemisorption of PPN's acetylene group as the cause of this transition.

Joining the un-joinable: adhesion between low surface energy polymers using tetrapodal ZnO linkers.

PubMed

Jin, Xin; Strueben, Jan; Heepe, Lars; Kovalev, Alexander; Mishra, Yogendra K; Adelung, Rainer; Gorb, Stanislav N; Staubitz, Anne

2012-11-08

Tetrapodal ZnO crystals are used for mechanical interlocking of PTFE and cross-linked PDMS, classically non-adhesive polymers. This novel approach is straightforward and easily applicable and leads to a peel strength that is higher than 200 N m(-1) without chemical modification of the surfaces. The shape of these fillers emerged as a crucial aspect of the interlocking mechanism. Copyright © 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Modeling of corrosion product migration in the secondary circuit of nuclear power plants with WWER-1200

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kritskii, V. G.; Berezina, I. G.; Gavrilov, A. V.; Motkova, E. A.; Zelenina, E. V.; Prokhorov, N. A.; Gorbatenko, S. P.; Tsitser, A. A.

2016-04-01

Models of corrosion and mass transfer of corrosion products in the pipes of the condensate-feeding and steam paths of the secondary circuit of NPPs with WWER-1200 are presented. The mass transfer and distribution of corrosion products over the currents of the working medium of the secondary circuit were calculated using the physicochemical model of mass transfer of corrosion products in which the secondary circuit is regarded as a cyclic system consisting of a number of interrelated elements. The circuit was divided into calculated regions in which the change in the parameters (flow rate, temperature, and pressure) was traced and the rates of corrosion and corrosion products entrainment, high-temperature pH, and iron concentration were calculated. The models were verified according to the results of chemical analyses at Kalinin NPP and iron corrosion product concentrations in the feed water at different NPPs depending on pH at 25°C (pH25) for service times τ ≥ 5000 h. The calculated pH values at a coolant temperature t (pH t ) in the secondary circuit of NPPs with WWER-1200 were presented. The calculation of the distribution of pH t and ethanolamine and ammonia concentrations over the condensate feed (CFC) and steam circuits is given. The models are designed for developing the calculation codes. The project solutions of ATOMPROEKT satisfy the safety and reliability requirements for power plants with WWER-1200. The calculated corrosion and corrosion product mass transfer parameters showed that the model allows the designer to choose between the increase of the correcting reagent concentration, the use of steel with higher chromium contents, and intermittent washing of the steam generator from sediments as the best solution for definite regions of the circuit.

Active learning of neuron morphology for accurate automated tracing of neurites

PubMed Central

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

2014-01-01

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

How Does the Sparse Memory “Engram” Neurons Encode the Memory of a Spatial–Temporal Event?

PubMed Central

Guan, Ji-Song; Jiang, Jun; Xie, Hong; Liu, Kai-Yuan

2016-01-01

Episodic memory in human brain is not a fixed 2-D picture but a highly dynamic movie serial, integrating information at both the temporal and the spatial domains. Recent studies in neuroscience reveal that memory storage and recall are closely related to the activities in discrete memory engram (trace) neurons within the dentate gyrus region of hippocampus and the layer 2/3 of neocortex. More strikingly, optogenetic reactivation of those memory trace neurons is able to trigger the recall of naturally encoded memory. It is still unknown how the discrete memory traces encode and reactivate the memory. Considering a particular memory normally represents a natural event, which consists of information at both the temporal and spatial domains, it is unknown how the discrete trace neurons could reconstitute such enriched information in the brain. Furthermore, as the optogenetic-stimuli induced recall of memory did not depend on firing pattern of the memory traces, it is most likely that the spatial activation pattern, but not the temporal activation pattern of the discrete memory trace neurons encodes the memory in the brain. How does the neural circuit convert the activities in the spatial domain into the temporal domain to reconstitute memory of a natural event? By reviewing the literature, here we present how the memory engram (trace) neurons are selected and consolidated in the brain. Then, we will discuss the main challenges in the memory trace theory. In the end, we will provide a plausible model of memory trace cell network, underlying the conversion of neural activities between the spatial domain and the temporal domain. We will also discuss on how the activation of sparse memory trace neurons might trigger the replay of neural activities in specific temporal patterns. PMID:27601979

How Does the Sparse Memory "Engram" Neurons Encode the Memory of a Spatial-Temporal Event?

PubMed

Guan, Ji-Song; Jiang, Jun; Xie, Hong; Liu, Kai-Yuan

2016-01-01

Episodic memory in human brain is not a fixed 2-D picture but a highly dynamic movie serial, integrating information at both the temporal and the spatial domains. Recent studies in neuroscience reveal that memory storage and recall are closely related to the activities in discrete memory engram (trace) neurons within the dentate gyrus region of hippocampus and the layer 2/3 of neocortex. More strikingly, optogenetic reactivation of those memory trace neurons is able to trigger the recall of naturally encoded memory. It is still unknown how the discrete memory traces encode and reactivate the memory. Considering a particular memory normally represents a natural event, which consists of information at both the temporal and spatial domains, it is unknown how the discrete trace neurons could reconstitute such enriched information in the brain. Furthermore, as the optogenetic-stimuli induced recall of memory did not depend on firing pattern of the memory traces, it is most likely that the spatial activation pattern, but not the temporal activation pattern of the discrete memory trace neurons encodes the memory in the brain. How does the neural circuit convert the activities in the spatial domain into the temporal domain to reconstitute memory of a natural event? By reviewing the literature, here we present how the memory engram (trace) neurons are selected and consolidated in the brain. Then, we will discuss the main challenges in the memory trace theory. In the end, we will provide a plausible model of memory trace cell network, underlying the conversion of neural activities between the spatial domain and the temporal domain. We will also discuss on how the activation of sparse memory trace neurons might trigger the replay of neural activities in specific temporal patterns.

Hierarchical Porous Interlocked Polymeric Microcapsules: Sulfonic Acid Functionalization as Acid Catalysts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Xiaomei; Gu, Jinyan; Tian, Lei; Zhang, Xu

2017-03-01

Owing to their unique structural and surface properties, mesoporous microspheres are widely applied in the catalytic field. Generally, increasing the surface area of the specific active phase of the catalyst is a good method, which can achieve a higher catalytic activity through the fabrication of the corresponding catalytic microspheres with the smaller size and hollow structure. However, one of the major challenges in the use of hollow microspheres (microcapsules) as catalysts is their chemical and structural stability. Herein, the grape-like hypercrosslinked polystyrene hierarchical porous interlocked microcapsule (HPIM-HCL-PS) is fabricated by SiO2 colloidal crystals templates, whose structure is the combination of open mouthed structure, mesoporous nanostructure and interlocked architecture. Numerous microcapsules assembling together and forming the roughly grape-like microcapsule aggregates can enhance the structural stability and recyclability of these microcapsules. After undergoing the sulfonation, the sulfonated HPIM-HCL-PS is served as recyclable acid catalyst for condensation reaction between benzaldehyde and ethylene glycol (TOF = 793 h-1), moreover, exhibits superior activity, selectivity and recyclability.

The mechanical bond: a work of art.

PubMed

Bruns, Carson J; Stoddart, J Fraser

2012-01-01

Mechanically interlocked objects are ubiquitous in our world. They can be spotted on almost every scale of matter and in virtually every sector of society, spanning cultural, temporal, and physical boundaries the world over. From art to machinery, to biological entities and chemical compounds, mechanical interlocking is being used and admired every day, inspiring creativity and ingenuity in art and technology alike. The tiny world of mechanically interlocked molecules (MIMs), which has been established and cultivated over the past few decades, has connected the ordinary and molecular worlds symbolically with creative research and artwork that subsumes the molecular world as a miniaturization of the ordinary one. In this review, we highlight how graphical representations of MIMs have evolved to this end, and discuss various other aspects of their beauty as chemists see them today. We argue that the many aspects of beauty in MIMs are relevant, not only to the pleasure chemists derive from their research, but also to the progress of the research itself.

Ring-through-ring molecular shuttling in a saturated [3]rotaxane

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Kelong; Baggi, Giorgio; Loeb, Stephen J.

2018-06-01

Mechanically interlocked molecules such as rotaxanes and catenanes comprise two or more components whose motion relative to each other can be controlled. A [2]rotaxane molecular shuttle, for example, consists of an axle bearing two recognition sites and a single macrocyclic wheel that can undergo a to-and-fro motion along the axle—shuttling between the recognition sites. The ability of mechanically interlocked molecules to undergo this type of large-amplitude change is the core mechanism behind almost every interlocked molecular switch or machine, including sophisticated mechanical systems such as a molecular elevator and a peptide synthesizer. Here, as a way to expand the scope of dynamics possible at the molecular level, we have developed a molecular shuttling mechanism involving the exchange of rings between two recognition sites in a saturated [3]rotaxane (one with no empty recognition sites). This was accomplished by passing a smaller ring through a larger one, thus achieving ring-through-ring molecular shuttling.

"Fabrication of arbitrarily shaped carbonate apatite foam based on the interlocking process of dicalcium hydrogen phosphate dihydrate".

PubMed

Sugiura, Yuki; Tsuru, Kanji; Ishikawa, Kunio

2017-08-01

Carbonate apatite (CO 3 Ap) foam with an interconnected porous structure is highly attractive as a scaffold for bone replacement. In this study, arbitrarily shaped CO 3 Ap foam was formed from α-tricalcium phosphate (α-TCP) foam granules via a two-step process involving treatment with acidic calcium phosphate solution followed by hydrothermal treatment with NaHCO 3 . The treatment with acidic calcium phosphate solution, which is key to fabricating arbitrarily shaped CO 3 Ap foam, enables dicalcium hydrogen phosphate dihydrate (DCPD) crystals to form on the α-TCP foam granules. The generated DCPD crystals cause the α-TCP granules to interlock with each other, inducing an α-TCP/DCPD foam. The interlocking structure containing DCPD crystals can survive hydrothermal treatment with NaHCO 3 . The arbitrarily shaped CO 3 Ap foam was fabricated from the α-TCP/DCPD foam via hydrothermal treatment at 200 °C for 24 h in the presence of a large amount of NaHCO 3 .

Interlocked feedforward loops control cell-type-specific Rhodopsin expression in the Drosophila eye.

PubMed

Johnston, Robert J; Otake, Yoshiaki; Sood, Pranidhi; Vogt, Nina; Behnia, Rudy; Vasiliauskas, Daniel; McDonald, Elizabeth; Xie, Baotong; Koenig, Sebastian; Wolf, Reinhard; Cook, Tiffany; Gebelein, Brian; Kussell, Edo; Nakagoshi, Hideki; Desplan, Claude

2011-06-10

How complex networks of activators and repressors lead to exquisitely specific cell-type determination during development is poorly understood. In the Drosophila eye, expression patterns of Rhodopsins define at least eight functionally distinct though related subtypes of photoreceptors. Here, we describe a role for the transcription factor gene defective proventriculus (dve) as a critical node in the network regulating Rhodopsin expression. dve is a shared component of two opposing, interlocked feedforward loops (FFLs). Orthodenticle and Dve interact in an incoherent FFL to repress Rhodopsin expression throughout the eye. In R7 and R8 photoreceptors, a coherent FFL relieves repression by Dve while activating Rhodopsin expression. Therefore, this network uses repression to restrict and combinatorial activation to induce cell-type-specific expression. Furthermore, Dve levels are finely tuned to yield cell-type- and region-specific repression or activation outcomes. This interlocked FFL motif may be a general mechanism to control terminal cell-fate specification. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A review on past and present development on the interlocking loadbearing hollow block (ILHB) system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bosro, M. Z. M.; Samad, A. A. A.; Mohamad, N.; Goh, W. I.; Tambichik, M. A.; Iman, M. A.

2018-04-01

Massive migration and increasing population in Malaysia has contributed to the increasing demand of quality and affordable housing. Over the past 50 years, the Malaysian housing industry has seen the growth of using conventional construction system such as reinforced concrete frame structures and bricks. The conventional system, as agreed by many researchers, causes delays and other disadvantages in some of the construction projects. Thus, the utilization of interlocking loadbearing hollow block (ILHB) system is needed to address these issues. This system has been identified as an alternative and sustainable building system for the construction industry in Malaysia which the PUTRA block system is the latest example of the ILHB developed. The system offers various advantages in terms of speed and cost in construction, strength, environmentally friendly and aesthetic qualities. Despite these advantages, this system has not been practically applied and develop in Malaysia. Therefore, this paper aims to review the past and present development of the interlocking loadbearing hollow block (ILHB) system that available locally and globally.

Do biodegradable magnesium alloy intramedullary interlocking nails prematurely lose fixation stability in the treatment of tibial fracture? A numerical simulation.

PubMed

Wang, Haosen; Hao, Zhixiu; Wen, Shizhu

2017-01-01

Intramedullary interlocking nailing is an effective technique used to treat long bone fractures. Recently, biodegradable metals have drawn increased attention as an intramedullary interlocking nailing material. In this study, numerical simulations were implemented to determine whether the degradation rate of magnesium alloy makes it a suitable material for manufacturing biodegradable intramedullary interlocking nails. Mechano-regulatory and bone-remodeling models were used to simulate the fracture healing process, and a surface corrosion model was used to simulate intramedullary rod degradation. The results showed that magnesium alloy intramedullary rods exhibited a satisfactory degradation rate; the fracture healed and callus enhancement was observed before complete dissolution of the intramedullary rod. Delayed magnesium degradation (using surface coating techniques) did not confer a significant advantage over the non-delayed degradation process; immediate degradation also achieved satisfactory healing outcomes. However, delayed degradation had no negative effect on callus enhancement, as it did not cause signs of stress shielding. To avoid risks of individual differences such as delayed union, delayed degradation is recommended. Although the magnesium intramedullary rod did not demonstrate rapid degradation, its ability to provide high fixation stiffness to achieve earlier load bearing was inferior to that of the conventional titanium alloy and stainless steel rods. Therefore, light physiological loads should be ensured during the early stages of healing to achieve bony healing; otherwise, with increased loading and degraded intramedullary rods, the fracture may ultimately fail to heal. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

High-power fiber optic cable with integrated active sensors for live process monitoring

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Blomster, Ola; Blomqvist, Mats; Bergstrand, Hans; Pålsson, Magnus

2012-03-01

In industrial applications using high-brilliance lasers at power levels up to and exceeding 20 kW and similarly direct diode lasers of 10 kW, there is an increasing demand to continuously monitor component status even in passive components such as fiber-optic cables. With fiber-optic cables designed according to the European Automotive Industry fiber standard interface there is room for integrating active sensors inside the connectors. In this paper we present the integrated active sensors in the new Optoskand QD fiber-optic cable designed to handle extreme levels of power losses, and how these sensors can be employed in industrial manufacturing. The sensors include photo diodes for detection of scattered light inside the fiber connector, absolute temperature of the fiber connector, difference in temperature of incoming and outgoing cooling water, and humidity measurement inside the fiber connector. All these sensors are connected to the fiber interlock system, where interlock break enable functions can be activated when measured signals are higher than threshold levels. It is a very fast interlock break system as the control of the signals is integrated in the electronics inside the fiber connector. Also, since all signals can be logged it is possible to evaluate what happened inside the connector before the interlock break instance. The communication to the fiber-optic connectors is via a CAN interface. Thus it is straightforward to develop the existing laser host control to also control the CAN-messages from the QD sensors.

Economic aspects of interlocking hollow brick system designed for industrialized building system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tahir, Mahmood Md.; Saggaff, Anis; Ngian, Shek Poi; Sulaiman, Arizu

2017-11-01

Construction industry has moved forward into a technology driven where a transition is in progress from conventional method to a more advanced and mechanised system known as the Industrialised Building System (IBS). However, the need to implement the IBS should be well understood by all construction players such as designer, architect, contraction, erectors and construction workers. Therefore, there is a need to educate all these construction players which should be spearheaded by authorities such as Construction Industrial Development Board where enforcement trough building by laws as well as initiative to those that adopt the IBS in their construction. This paper reports on economic aspects of using interlocking hollow brick system in construction as an alternative method offered for Industrialized Building System. The main objective is to address the economic aspects of using interlocking block system in terms of time, costs, and utilization of manpower and to present some of the experimental tests results related to Interlocking Hollow Brick System (IHBS). Example of savings from the use of IHBS is presented in this paper by comparing the construction of two storey terrace house with build-up area of about 200 square meter with conventional construction method of typical reinforced concrete construction (RCC) compared to IHBS. The comparison shows that the implementation of IHBS can reduce construction time, cost, and utilization of man power up to 26.6% compared to the conventional method. Moreover, the construction time using IHBS can also be reduced by up to 50% as compared to the conventional construction.

Synaptic plasticity in sleep: learning, homeostasis, and disease

PubMed Central

Wang, Gordon; Grone, Brian; Colas, Damien; Appelbaum, Lior; Mourrain, Philippe

2012-01-01

Sleep is a fundamental and evolutionarily conserved aspect of animal life. Recent studies have shed light on the role of sleep in synaptic plasticity. Demonstrations of memory replay and synapse homeostasis suggest that one essential role of sleep is in the consolidation and optimization of synaptic circuits to retain salient memory traces despite the noise of daily experience. Here, we review this recent evidence, and suggest that sleep creates a heightened state of plasticity, which may be essential for this optimization. Furthermore, we discuss how sleep deficits seen in diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and autism spectrum disorders might not just reflect underlying circuit malfunction, but could also play a direct role in the progression of those disorders. PMID:21840068

Co-detection: ultra-reliable nanoparticle-based electrical detection of biomolecules in the presence of large background interference.

PubMed

Liu, Yang; Gu, Ming; Alocilja, Evangelyn C; Chakrabartty, Shantanu

2010-11-15

An ultra-reliable technique for detecting trace quantities of biomolecules is reported. The technique called "co-detection" exploits the non-linear redundancy amongst synthetically patterned biomolecular logic circuits for deciphering the presence or absence of target biomolecules in a sample. In this paper, we verify the "co-detection" principle on gold-nanoparticle-based conductimetric soft-logic circuits which use a silver-enhancement technique for signal amplification. Using co-detection, we have been able to demonstrate a great improvement in the reliability of detecting mouse IgG at concentration levels that are 10(5) lower than the concentration of rabbit IgG which serves as background interference. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A large-scale circuit mechanism for hierarchical dynamical processing in the primate cortex

PubMed Central

Chaudhuri, Rishidev; Knoblauch, Kenneth; Gariel, Marie-Alice; Kennedy, Henry; Wang, Xiao-Jing

2015-01-01

We developed a large-scale dynamical model of the macaque neocortex, which is based on recently acquired directed- and weighted-connectivity data from tract-tracing experiments, and which incorporates heterogeneity across areas. A hierarchy of timescales naturally emerges from this system: sensory areas show brief, transient responses to input (appropriate for sensory processing), whereas association areas integrate inputs over time and exhibit persistent activity (suitable for decision-making and working memory). The model displays multiple temporal hierarchies, as evidenced by contrasting responses to visual versus somatosensory stimulation. Moreover, slower prefrontal and temporal areas have a disproportionate impact on global brain dynamics. These findings establish a circuit mechanism for “temporal receptive windows” that are progressively enlarged along the cortical hierarchy, suggest an extension of time integration in decision-making from local to large circuits, and should prompt a re-evaluation of the analysis of functional connectivity (measured by fMRI or EEG/MEG) by taking into account inter-areal heterogeneity. PMID:26439530

Mapping brain circuits of reward and motivation: in the footsteps of Ann Kelley.

PubMed

Richard, Jocelyn M; Castro, Daniel C; Difeliceantonio, Alexandra G; Robinson, Mike J F; Berridge, Kent C

2013-11-01

Ann Kelley was a scientific pioneer in reward neuroscience. Her many notable discoveries included demonstrations of accumbens/striatal circuitry roles in eating behavior and in food reward, explorations of limbic interactions with hypothalamic regulatory circuits, and additional interactions of motivation circuits with learning functions. Ann Kelley's accomplishments inspired other researchers to follow in her footsteps, including our own laboratory group. Here we describe results from several lines of our research that sprang in part from earlier findings by Kelley and colleagues. We describe hedonic hotspots for generating intense pleasure 'liking', separate identities of 'wanting' versus 'liking' systems, a novel role for dorsal neostriatum in generating motivation to eat, a limbic keyboard mechanism in nucleus accumbens for generating intense desire versus intense dread, and dynamic limbic transformations of learned memories into motivation. We describe how origins for each of these themes can be traced to fundamental contributions by Ann Kelley. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Extremely high frequency RF effects on electronics.

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

Loubriel, Guillermo Manuel; Vigliano, David; Coleman, Phillip Dale

The objective of this work was to understand the fundamental physics of extremely high frequency RF effects on electronics. To accomplish this objective, we produced models, conducted simulations, and performed measurements to identify the mechanisms of effects as frequency increases into the millimeter-wave regime. Our purpose was to answer the questions, 'What are the tradeoffs between coupling, transmission losses, and device responses as frequency increases?', and, 'How high in frequency do effects on electronic systems continue to occur?' Using full wave electromagnetics codes and a transmission-line/circuit code, we investigated how extremely high-frequency RF propagates on wires and printed circuit boardmore » traces. We investigated both field-to-wire coupling and direct illumination of printed circuit boards to determine the significant mechanisms for inducing currents at device terminals. We measured coupling to wires and attenuation along wires for comparison to the simulations, looking at plane-wave coupling as it launches modes onto single and multiconductor structures. We simulated the response of discrete and integrated circuit semiconductor devices to those high-frequency currents and voltages, using SGFramework, the open-source General-purpose Semiconductor Simulator (gss), and Sandia's Charon semiconductor device physics codes. This report documents our findings.« less

Biologically based neural circuit modelling for the study of fear learning and extinction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nair, Satish S.; Paré, Denis; Vicentic, Aleksandra

2016-11-01

The neuronal systems that promote protective defensive behaviours have been studied extensively using Pavlovian conditioning. In this paradigm, an initially neutral-conditioned stimulus is paired with an aversive unconditioned stimulus leading the subjects to display behavioural signs of fear. Decades of research into the neural bases of this simple behavioural paradigm uncovered that the amygdala, a complex structure comprised of several interconnected nuclei, is an essential part of the neural circuits required for the acquisition, consolidation and expression of fear memory. However, emerging evidence from the confluence of electrophysiological, tract tracing, imaging, molecular, optogenetic and chemogenetic methodologies, reveals that fear learning is mediated by multiple connections between several amygdala nuclei and their distributed targets, dynamical changes in plasticity in local circuit elements as well as neuromodulatory mechanisms that promote synaptic plasticity. To uncover these complex relations and analyse multi-modal data sets acquired from these studies, we argue that biologically realistic computational modelling, in conjunction with experiments, offers an opportunity to advance our understanding of the neural circuit mechanisms of fear learning and to address how their dysfunction may lead to maladaptive fear responses in mental disorders.

Reinforcing the role of the conventional C-arm - a novel method for simplified distal interlocking

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background The common practice for insertion of distal locking screws of intramedullary nails is a freehand technique under fluoroscopic control. The process is technically demanding, time-consuming and afflicted to considerable radiation exposure of the patient and the surgical personnel. A new concept is introduced utilizing information from within conventional radiographic images to help accurately guide the surgeon to place the interlocking bolt into the interlocking hole. The newly developed technique was compared to conventional freehand in an operating room (OR) like setting on human cadaveric lower legs in terms of operating time and radiation exposure. Methods The proposed concept (guided freehand), generally based on the freehand gold standard, additionally guides the surgeon by means of visible landmarks projected into the C-arm image. A computer program plans the correct drilling trajectory by processing the lens-shaped hole projections of the interlocking holes from a single image. Holes can be drilled by visually aligning the drill to the planned trajectory. Besides a conventional C-arm, no additional tracking or navigation equipment is required. Ten fresh frozen human below-knee specimens were instrumented with an Expert Tibial Nail (Synthes GmbH, Switzerland). The implants were distally locked by performing the newly proposed technique as well as the conventional freehand technique on each specimen. An orthopedic resident surgeon inserted four distal screws per procedure. Operating time, number of images and radiation time were recorded and statistically compared between interlocking techniques using non-parametric tests. Results A 58% reduction in number of taken images per screw was found for the guided freehand technique (7.4 ± 3.4) (mean ± SD) compared to the freehand technique (17.6 ± 10.3) (p < 0.001). Total radiation time (all 4 screws) was 55% lower for the guided freehand technique compared to conventional freehand (p = 0.001). Operating time per screw (from first shot to screw tightened) was on average 22% reduced by guided freehand (p = 0.018). Conclusions In an experimental setting, the newly developed guided freehand technique for distal interlocking has proven to markedly reduce radiation exposure when compared to the conventional freehand technique. The method utilizes established clinical workflows and does not require cost intensive add-on devices or extensive training. The underlying principle carries potential to assist implant positioning in numerous other applications within orthopedics and trauma from screw insertions to placement of plates, nails or prostheses. PMID:22276698

Copper(I)-induced amplification of a [2]catenane in a virtual dynamic library of macrocyclic alkenes.

PubMed

Berrocal, José Augusto; Nieuwenhuizen, Marko M L; Mandolini, Luigi; Meijer, E W; Di Stefano, Stefano

2014-08-28

Olefin cross-metathesis of diluted dichloromethane solutions (≤0.15 M) of the 28-membered macrocyclic alkene C1, featuring a 1,10-phenanthroline moiety in the backbone, as well as of catenand 1, composed of two identical interlocked C1 units, generates families of noninterlocked oligomers Ci. The composition of the libraries is strongly dependent on the monomer concentration, but independent of whether C1 or 1 is used as feedstock, as expected for truly equilibrated systems. Accordingly, the limiting value 0.022 M approached by the equilibrium concentration of C1 when the total monomer concentration approaches the critical value, as predicted by the Jacobson-Stockmayer theory, provides a reliable estimate of the thermodynamically effective molarity. Catenand 1 behaves as a virtual component of the dynamic libraries, in that there is no detectable trace of its presence in the equilibrated mixtures, but becomes the major component - in the form of its copper(I) complex - when olefin cross-metathesis is carried out in the presence of a copper(I) salt.

Photovoltaic module and interlocked stack of photovoltaic modules

DOEpatents

Wares, Brian S.

2014-09-02

One embodiment relates to an arrangement of photovoltaic modules configured for transportation. The arrangement includes a plurality of photovoltaic modules, each photovoltaic module including a frame. A plurality of individual male alignment features and a plurality of individual female alignment features are included on each frame. Adjacent photovoltaic modules are interlocked by multiple individual male alignment features on a first module of the adjacent photovoltaic modules fitting into and being surrounded by corresponding individual female alignment features on a second module of the adjacent photovoltaic modules. Other embodiments, features and aspects are also disclosed.

Investigation of severe water problem in urban areas of a developing country: the case of Dhaka, Bangladesh.

PubMed

Nahar, Mst Shamsun; Zhang, Jing; Ueda, Akira; Yoshihisa, Fujishiro

2014-12-01

The present study evaluated water supply geochemistry in Dhaka City, Bangladesh, to provide detailed trace level (subppb) water quality data that include major ions, low dissolved oxygen (DO) and toxic trace metals for sustainable development. Dhaka Groundwater, which almost uniformly meets the World Health Organization guideline, has become the preferred source. Due to groundwater depletion and an ever-increasing need to meet water demands by city residents, Dhaka water supply and sewerage authority has initiated the treatment of river water, despite the fact that very little is known about the geochemical structure, and trace metal content in the Dhaka water supply. Major ion composition of water samples was determined, and the results used to generate Stiff diagrams. The diagrams served to visually compare water from different sources based on units of mass/volume. Hydrochemical facies analysis showed supply ground and surface waters are comprised predominately of Ca-Na-Mg-HCO3 and Ca-Na-Mg-HCO3-Cl types. Spatial distribution of ions, and Na/Cl and Na/SiO2 molar ratio indicated that silicate weathering is the dominant geochemical process. Chemical data revealed that toxic Cr metal mobilization is associated with chemical hazards from the leather industry. The vulnerability of deep wells to contamination by As is governed by the geometry of induced groundwater flow paths and the geochemical conditions encountered between the shallow and deep regions of the aquifer. Quantifying total arsenic (As) and As from interlocking geochemical cycles (Fe, Mn) may assist in interpreting As dynamics in Dhaka well water. The surface source water was hypoxic to anoxic low DO associated with very high concentrations of biological oxygen demands, and electrical conductivity compared to industrial and non-industrial urban processes and standard activity guidelines. The results of this study should be applied to future research focused on the potential to improve water quality in urban and surrounding areas.

Progress in understanding mood disorders: optogenetic dissection of neural circuits.

PubMed

Lammel, S; Tye, K M; Warden, M R

2014-01-01

Major depression is characterized by a cluster of symptoms that includes hopelessness, low mood, feelings of worthlessness and inability to experience pleasure. The lifetime prevalence of major depression approaches 20%, yet current treatments are often inadequate both because of associated side effects and because they are ineffective for many people. In basic research, animal models are often used to study depression. Typically, experimental animals are exposed to acute or chronic stress to generate a variety of depression-like symptoms. Despite its clinical importance, very little is known about the cellular and neural circuits that mediate these symptoms. Recent advances in circuit-targeted approaches have provided new opportunities to study the neuropathology of mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. We review recent progress and highlight some studies that have begun tracing a functional neuronal circuit diagram that may prove essential in establishing novel treatment strategies in mood disorders. First, we shed light on the complexity of mesocorticolimbic dopamine (DA) responses to stress by discussing two recent studies reporting that optogenetic activation of midbrain DA neurons can induce or reverse depression-related behaviors. Second, we describe the role of the lateral habenula circuitry in the pathophysiology of depression. Finally, we discuss how the prefrontal cortex controls limbic and neuromodulatory circuits in mood disorders. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd and International Behavioural and Neural Genetics Society.

Nanoporous impedemetric biosensor for detection of trace atrazine from water samples.

PubMed

Pichetsurnthorn, Pie; Vattipalli, Krishna; Prasad, Shalini

2012-02-15

Trace contamination of ground water sources has been a problem ever since the introduction of high-soil-mobility pesticides, one such example is atrazine. In this paper we present a novel nanoporous portable bio-sensing device that can identify trace contamination of atrazine through a label-free assay. We have designed a pesticide sensor comprising of a nanoporous alumina membrane integrated with printed circuit board platform. Nanoporous alumina in the biosensor device generates a high density array of nanoscale confined spaces. By leveraging the size based immobilization of atrazine small molecules we have designed electrochemical impedance spectroscopy based biosensor to detect trace amounts of atrazine. We have calibrated the sensor using phosphate buffered saline and demonstrated trace detection from river and bottled drinking water samples. The limit of detection in all the three cases was in the femtogram/mL (fg/mL) (parts-per-trillion) regime with a dynamic range of detection spanning from 10 fg/mL to 1 ng/mL (0.01 ppt to 1 ppm). The selectivity of the device was tested using a competing pesticide; malathion and selectivity in detection was observed in the fg/mL regime in all the three cases. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Why the Brain Knows More than We Do: Non-Conscious Representations and Their Role in the Construction of Conscious Experience

PubMed Central

Dresp-Langley, Birgitta

2011-01-01

Scientific studies have shown that non-conscious stimuli and representations influence information processing during conscious experience. In the light of such evidence, questions about potential functional links between non-conscious brain representations and conscious experience arise. This article discusses neural model capable of explaining how statistical learning mechanisms in dedicated resonant circuits could generate specific temporal activity traces of non-conscious representations in the brain. How reentrant signaling, top-down matching, and statistical coincidence of such activity traces may lead to the progressive consolidation of temporal patterns that constitute the neural signatures of conscious experience in networks extending across large distances beyond functionally specialized brain regions is then explained. PMID:24962683

Measurement of the response time of the delay window for the neutron converter of the SPIRAL2 project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Acosta, G.; Andre, T.; Bermudez, J.; Blinov, M. F.; Jamet, C.; Logatchev, P. V.; Semenov, Y. I.; Starostenko, A. A.; Tecchio, L. B.; Tsyganov, A. S.; Udup, E.; Vasquez, J.

2014-09-01

Research and development of a safety system for the SPIRAL2 facility has been conceived to protect the UCx target from a possible interaction with the 200 kW deuteron beam. The system called "delay window" (DW) is designed as an integral part of the neutron converter module and is located in between the neutron converter and the fission target. The device has been designed as a barrier, located directly behind the neutron converter on the axis of the deuteron beam, with the purpose of "delaying" the eventual interaction of the deuteron beam with the UCx target in case of a failure of the neutron converter. The "delay" must be long enough to allow the interlock to react and safely stop the beam operation, before the beam will reach the UCx target. The working concept of the DW is based on the principle of the electrical fuse. Electrically insulated wires placed on the surface of a Tantalum disk assure a so called "free contact", normally closed to an electronic circuit located on the HV platform, far from the radioactive environment. The melting temperature of the wires is much less than Tantalum. Once the beam is impinging on the disk, one or more wires are melted and the "free contact" is open. A solid state relay is changing its state and a signal is sent to the interlock device. A prototype of the DW has been constructed and tested with an electron beam of power density equivalent to the SPIRAL2 beam. The measured "delay" is 682.5 ms (σ=116 ms), that is rather long in comparison to the intrinsic delays introduced by the detectors itself (2 ms) and by the associated electronic devices (120 ns). The experimental results confirm that, in the case of a failure of the neutron converter, the DW as conceived is enable to withstand the beam power for a period of time sufficiently long to safely shut down the SPIRAL2 accelerator.

Neuronal oscillations on an ultra-slow timescale: daily rhythms in electrical activity and gene expression in the mammalian master circadian clockwork.

PubMed

Belle, Mino D C; Diekman, Casey O

2018-02-03

Neuronal oscillations of the brain, such as those observed in the cortices and hippocampi of behaving animals and humans, span across wide frequency bands, from slow delta waves (0.1 Hz) to ultra-fast ripples (600 Hz). Here, we focus on ultra-slow neuronal oscillators in the hypothalamic suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN), the master daily clock that operates on interlocking transcription-translation feedback loops to produce circadian rhythms in clock gene expression with a period of near 24 h (< 0.001 Hz). This intracellular molecular clock interacts with the cell's membrane through poorly understood mechanisms to drive the daily pattern in the electrical excitability of SCN neurons, exhibiting an up-state during the day and a down-state at night. In turn, the membrane activity feeds back to regulate the oscillatory activity of clock gene programs. In this review, we emphasise the circadian processes that drive daily electrical oscillations in SCN neurons, and highlight how mathematical modelling contributes to our increasing understanding of circadian rhythm generation, synchronisation and communication within this hypothalamic region and across other brain circuits. © 2018 Federation of European Neuroscience Societies and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Miniaturization of a Combination Langmuir/Mach Probe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Melnik, P. A.; Dehart, T.; Lotz, D.

2009-11-01

A combination Langmuir/Mach probe has been developed to measure electron temperature and density as well as ion flow speed in TCSU. The probe is fully translatable allowing it to diagnose all radial locations of the FRC at either the mid-plane, end section, or in the exhaust jets. The 1/4'' probe stalk consists of interlocking boron nitride cylinders which encompass a 1/8'' diameter stainless steel tube that houses the probe wires. In addition to the stainless steel jacket the probe wires are twisted to minimize electromagnetic noise pickup. The tip of this combo probe is composed of a boron nitride housing and eight .020'' diameter tungsten collection leads. In TCSU, the RMF used to form and sustain the FRC makes Langmuir probe measurements difficult. To this end we have developed a drive circuit that will generate the bias voltages necessary for Langmuir probe operation. This bipolar power supply can produce steady voltages up to 200 volts at loads over 1 amp and can be swept at any frequency up to 1.5 MHz. The probe current and bias voltage will be recorded with an amplifier and transmitted via fiber optic to a receiver allowing the signals to be digitized.

Far infrared through millimeter backshort-under-grid arrays

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Allen, Christine A.; Abrahams, John; Benford, Dominic J.; Chervenak, James A.; Chuss, David T.; Staguhn, Johannes G.; Miller, Timothy M.; Moseley, S. Harvey; Wollack, Edward J.

2006-06-01

We are developing a large-format, versatile, bolometer array for a wide range of infrared through millimeter astronomical applications. The array design consists of three key components - superconducting transition edge sensor bolometer arrays, quarter-wave reflective backshort grids, and Superconducting Quantum Interference Device (SQUID) multiplexer readouts. The detector array is a filled, square grid of bolometers with superconducting sensors. The backshort arrays are fabricated separately and are positioned in the etch cavities behind the detector grid. The grids have unique three-dimensional interlocking features micromachined into the walls for positioning and mechanical stability. The ultimate goal of the program is to produce large-format arrays with background-limited sensitivity, suitable for a wide range of wavelengths and applications. Large-format (kilopixel) arrays will be directly indium bump bonded to a SQUID multiplexer circuit. We have produced and tested 8×8 arrays of 1 mm detectors to demonstrate proof of concept. 8×16 arrays of 2 mm detectors are being produced for a new Goddard Space Flight Center instrument. We have also produced models of a kilopixel detector grid and dummy multiplexer chip for bump bonding development. We present detector design overview, several unique fabrication highlights, and assembly technologies.

Freedom of Expression and Rhetorical Art: The Problems of Avant-Garde Jazz.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Francesconi, Robert

Although the success of black jazz has been limited by its lack of recognition in the white-controlled music industry, its rhetorical development as an expression of black consciousness can be traced from the bebop of the 1940s and early 1950s, through the hard bop and free jazz of the 1960s, to the jazz orientation of the disco circuit in the…

3D Printed Shock Mitigating Structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schrand, Amanda; Elston, Edwin; Dennis, Mitzi; Metroke, Tammy; Chen, Chenggang; Patton, Steven; Ganguli, Sabyasachi; Roy, Ajit

Here we explore the durability, and shock mitigating potential, of solid and cellular 3D printed polymers and conductive inks under high strain rate, compressive shock wave and high g acceleration conditions. Our initial designs include a simple circuit with 4 resistors embedded into circular discs and a complex cylindrical gyroid shape. A novel ink consisting of silver-coated carbon black nanoparticles in a thermoplastic polyurethane was used as the trace material. One version of the disc structural design has the advantage of allowing disassembly after testing for direct failure analysis. After increasing impacts, printed and traditionally potted circuits were examined for functionality. Additionally, in the open disc design, trace cracking and delamination of resistors were able to be observed. In a parallel study, we examined the shock mitigating behavior of 3D printed cellular gyroid structures on a Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB). We explored alterations to the classic SHPB setup for testing the low impedance, cellular samples to most accurately reflect the stress state inside the sample (strain rates from 700 to 1750 s-1). We discovered that the gyroid can effectively absorb the impact of the test resulting in crushing the structure. Future studies aim to tailor the unit cell dimensions for certain frequencies, increase print accuracy and optimize material compositions for conductivity and adhesion to manufacture more durable devices.

Shot-Noise-Limited Dual-Beam Detector for Atmospheric Trace-Gas Monitoring with Near-Infrared Diode Lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Durry, Georges; Pouchet, Ivan; Amarouche, Nadir; Danguy, Théodore; Megie, Gerard

2000-10-01

A dual-beam detector is used to measure atmospheric trace species by differential absorption spectroscopy with commercial near-infrared InGaAs laser diodes. It is implemented on the Spectrom tre Diodes Laser Accordables, a balloonborne tunable diode laser spectrometer devoted to the in situ monitoring of CH 4 and H 2 O. The dual-beam detector is made of simple analogical subtractor circuits combined with InGaAs photodiodes. The detection strategy consists in taking the balanced analogical difference between the reference and the sample signals detected at the input and the output of an open optical multipass cell to apply the full dynamic range of the measurements (16 digits) to the weak molecular absorption information. The obtained sensitivity approaches the shot-noise limit. With a 56-m optical cell, the detection limit obtained when the spectra is recorded within 8 ms is 10 4 (expressed in absorbance units). The design and performances of both a simple substractor and an upgraded feedback substractor circuit are discussed with regard to atmospheric in situ CH 4 absorption spectra measured in the 1.653- m region. Mixing ratios are obtained from the absorption spectra by application of a nonlinear least-squares fit to the full molecular line shape in conjunction with in situ P and T measurements.

Perceptual-motor skill learning in Gilles de la Tourette syndrome. Evidence for multiple procedural learning and memory systems.

PubMed

Marsh, Rachel; Alexander, Gerianne M; Packard, Mark G; Zhu, Hongtu; Peterson, Bradley S

2005-01-01

Procedural learning and memory systems likely comprise several skills that are differentially affected by various illnesses of the central nervous system, suggesting their relative functional independence and reliance on differing neural circuits. Gilles de la Tourette syndrome (GTS) is a movement disorder that involves disturbances in the structure and function of the striatum and related circuitry. Recent studies suggest that patients with GTS are impaired in performance of a probabilistic classification task that putatively involves the acquisition of stimulus-response (S-R)-based habits. Assessing the learning of perceptual-motor skills and probabilistic classification in the same samples of GTS and healthy control subjects may help to determine whether these various forms of procedural (habit) learning rely on the same or differing neuroanatomical substrates and whether those substrates are differentially affected in persons with GTS. Therefore, we assessed perceptual-motor skill learning using the pursuit-rotor and mirror tracing tasks in 50 patients with GTS and 55 control subjects who had previously been compared at learning a task of probabilistic classifications. The GTS subjects did not differ from the control subjects in performance of either the pursuit rotor or mirror-tracing tasks, although they were significantly impaired in the acquisition of a probabilistic classification task. In addition, learning on the perceptual-motor tasks was not correlated with habit learning on the classification task in either the GTS or healthy control subjects. These findings suggest that the differing forms of procedural learning are dissociable both functionally and neuroanatomically. The specific deficits in the probabilistic classification form of habit learning in persons with GTS are likely to be a consequence of disturbances in specific corticostriatal circuits, but not the same circuits that subserve the perceptual-motor form of habit learning.

Electromagnetic navigation reduces surgical time and radiation exposure for proximal interlocking in retrograde femoral nailing.

PubMed

Somerson, Jeremy S; Rowley, David; Kennedy, Chad; Buttacavoli, Frank; Agarwal, Animesh

2014-07-01

To compare the time required for proximal locking screw placement between a standard freehand technique and the navigated technique, and to quantify the reduction in ionizing radiation exposure. A fresh frozen cadaver model was used for 48 proximal interlocking screw procedures. Each procedure consisted of insertion of 2 anteroposterior locking screws. Standard fluoroscopic technique was used for 24 procedures, and an electromagnetic navigation system was used for the remaining 24 procedures. Procedure duration was recorded using an electronic timer and radiation doses were documented. Mean total insertion time for both proximal interlocking screws was 405 ± 165.7 seconds with the freehand technique and 311 ± 78.3 seconds in the navigation group (P = 0.002). All procedures resulted in successful locking screw placement. Mean ionizing radiation exposure time for proximal locking was 29.5 ± 12.8 seconds. Proximal locking screw insertion using the navigation technique evaluated in this work was significantly faster than the standard fluoroscopic method. The navigated technique is effective and has the potential to prevent ionizing radiation exposure.

Analysis of the morphology, stability, and folding pathways of ring polymers with supramolecular topological constraints using molecular simulation and nonlinear manifold learning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Jiang; Ferguson, Andrew

Ring polymers offer a wide range of natural and engineered functions and applications, including as circular bacterial DNA, crown ethers for cation chelation, and ``molecular machines'' such as mechanical nanoswitches. The morphology and dynamics of ring polymers are governed by the chemistry and degree of polymerization of the ring, and intramolecular and supramolecular topological constraints such as knots or mechanically-interlocked rings. We perform molecular dynamics simulations of polyethylene ring polymers as a function of degree of polymerization and in different topological states, including a knotted state, catenane state (two interlocked rings), and borromean state (three interlocked rings). Applying nonlinear manifold learning to our all-atom simulation trajectories, we extract low-dimensional free energy surfaces governing the accessible conformational states and their relative thermodynamic stability. The free energy surfaces reveal how degree of polymerization and topological constraints affect the thermally accessible conformations, chiral symmetry breaking, and folding and collapse pathways of the rings, and present a means to rationally engineer ring size and topology to preferentially stabilize particular conformational states.

Fabricating interlocking support walls, with an adjustable backshort, in a TES bolometer array for far-infrared astronomy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miller, Timothy M.; Abrahams, John H.; Allen, Christine A.

2006-04-01

We report a fabrication process for deep etching silicon to different depths with a single masking layer, using standard masking and exposure techniques. Using this technique, we have incorporated a deep notch in the support walls of a transition-edge-sensor (TES) bolometer array during the detector back-etch, while simultaneously creating a cavity behind the detector. The notches serve to receive the support beams of a separate component, the Backshort-Under-Grid (BUG), an array of adjustable height quarter-wave backshorts that fill the cavities behind each pixel in the detector array. The backshort spacing, set prior to securing to the detector array, can be controlled from 25 to 300 μm by adjusting only a few process steps. In addition to backshort spacing, the interlocking beams and notches provide positioning and structural support for the ˜1 mm pitch, 8×8 array. This process is being incorporated into developing a TES bolometer array with an adjustable backshort for use in far-infrared astronomy. The masking technique and machining process used to fabricate the interlocking walls will be discussed.

Quick torque coupling

DOEpatents

Luft, Peter A [El Cerrito, CA

2009-05-12

A coupling for mechanically connecting modular tubular struts of a positioning apparatus or space frame, comprising a pair of toothed rings (10, 12) attached to separate strut members (16), the teeth (18, 20) of the primary rings (10, 12) mechanically interlocking in both an axial and circumferential manner, and a third part comprising a sliding, toothed collar (14) the teeth (22) of which interlock the teeth (18, 20) of the primary rings (10, 12), preventing them from disengaging, and completely locking the assembly together. A secondary mechanism provides a nesting force for the collar, and/or retains it. The coupling is self-contained and requires no external tools for installation, and can be assembled with gloved hands in demanding environments. No gauging or measured torque is required for assembly. The assembly can easily be visually inspected to determine a "go" or "no-go" status. The coupling is compact and relatively light-weight. Because of it's triply interlocking teeth, the connection is rigid. The connection does not primarily rely on clamps, springs or friction based fasteners, and is therefore reliable in fail-safe applications.

Antimonotonicity, Chaos and Multiple Attractors in a Novel Autonomous Jerk Circuit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kengne, J.; Negou, A. Nguomkam; Njitacke, Z. T.

2017-06-01

We perform a systematic analysis of a system consisting of a novel jerk circuit obtained by replacing the single semiconductor diode of the original jerk circuit described in [Sprott, 2011a] with a pair of semiconductor diodes connected in antiparallel. The model is described by a continuous time three-dimensional autonomous system with hyperbolic sine nonlinearity, and may be viewed as a control system with nonlinear velocity feedback. The stability of the (unique) fixed point, the local bifurcations, and the discrete symmetries of the model equations are discussed. The complex behavior of the system is categorized in terms of its parameters by using bifurcation diagrams, Lyapunov exponents, time series, Poincaré sections, and basins of attraction. Antimonotonicity, period doubling bifurcation, symmetry restoring crises, chaos, and coexisting bifurcations are reported. More interestingly, one of the key contributions of this work is the finding of various regions in the parameters’ space in which the proposed (“elegant”) jerk circuit experiences the unusual phenomenon of multiple competing attractors (i.e. coexistence of four disconnected periodic and chaotic attractors). The basins of attraction of various coexisting attractors display complexity (i.e. fractal basins boundaries), thus suggesting possible jumps between coexisting attractors in experiment. Results of theoretical analyses are perfectly traced by laboratory experimental measurements. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the jerk circuit/system introduced in this work represents the simplest electrical circuit (only a quadruple op amplifier chip without any analog multiplier chip) reported to date capable of four disconnected periodic and chaotic attractors for the same parameters setting.

Development of a flexible circuit board for low-background experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Poon, Alan; Barton, Paul; Dhar, Ankur; Larsen, Joern; Loach, James

2017-01-01

Future underground rare-event search experiments, such as neutrinoless double-beta decay searches, have stringent requirements for the radiopurity of materials placed near the active detector medium. Parylene is a polymer that has a high chemical purity and the vapor deposition process by which it is laid down tends to purify it further. In this talk the technique to fabricate a low-mass, flexible circuit board, with conductive traces photoligthographically patterned on a parylene substrate, is discussed. The performance of a proof-of-principle temperature sensor is presented. This work was supported by the U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Science, Office of Nuclear Physics, under Contract No. DE-AC02-05CH11231 and by the Shanghai Key Lab for Particle Physics and Cosmology (SKLPPC), Grant No. 15DZ2272100.

Neuronal substrates of sleep homeostasis; lessons from flies, rats and mice.

PubMed

Donlea, Jeffrey M; Alam, Md Noor; Szymusiak, Ronald

2017-06-01

Sleep homeostasis is a fundamental property of vigilance state regulation that is highly conserved across species. Neuronal systems and circuits that underlie sleep homeostasis are not well understood. In Drosophila, a neuronal circuit involving neurons in the ellipsoid body and in the dorsal Fan-shaped body is a candidate for both tracing sleep need during waking and translating it to increased sleep drive and expression. Sleep homeostasis in rats and mice involves multiple neuromodulators acting on multiple wake- and sleep-promoting neuronal systems. A functional central homeostat emerges from A 1 receptor mediated actions of adenosine on wake-promoting neurons in the basal forebrain and hypothalamus, and A 2A adenosine receptor-mediated actions on sleep-promoting neurons in the preoptic hypothalamus and nucleus accumbens. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Anterograde or Retrograde Transsynaptic Circuit Tracing in Vertebrates with Vesicular Stomatitis Virus Vectors

PubMed Central

Beier, Kevin T.; Mundell, Nathan A.; Pan, Y. Albert; Cepko, Constance L.

2016-01-01

Viruses have been used as transsynaptic tracers, allowing one to map the inputs and outputs of neuronal populations, due to their ability to replicate in neurons and transmit in vivo only across synaptically connected cells. To date, their use has been largely restricted to mammals. In order to explore the use of such viruses in an expanded host range, we tested the transsynaptic tracing ability of recombinant vesicular stomatitis virus (rVSV) vectors in a variety of organisms. Successful infection and gene expression were achieved in a wide range of organisms, including vertebrate and invertebrate model organisms. Moreover, rVSV enabled transsynaptic tracing of neural circuitry in predictable directions dictated by the viral envelope glycoprotein (G), derived from either VSV or rabies virus (RABV). Anterograde and retrograde labeling, from initial infection and/or viral replication and transmission, was observed in Old and New World monkeys, seahorses, jellyfish, zebrafish, chickens, and mice. These vectors are widely applicable for gene delivery, afferent tract tracing, and/or directional connectivity mapping. Here, we detail the use of these vectors and provide protocols for propagating virus, changing the surface glycoprotein, and infecting multiple organisms using several injection strategies. PMID:26729030

Anterograde or Retrograde Transsynaptic Circuit Tracing in Vertebrates with Vesicular Stomatitis Virus Vectors.

PubMed

Beier, Kevin T; Mundell, Nathan A; Pan, Y Albert; Cepko, Constance L

2016-01-04

Viruses have been used as transsynaptic tracers, allowing one to map the inputs and outputs of neuronal populations, due to their ability to replicate in neurons and transmit in vivo only across synaptically connected cells. To date, their use has been largely restricted to mammals. In order to explore the use of such viruses in an expanded host range, we tested the transsynaptic tracing ability of recombinant vesicular stomatitis virus (rVSV) vectors in a variety of organisms. Successful infection and gene expression were achieved in a wide range of organisms, including vertebrate and invertebrate model organisms. Moreover, rVSV enabled transsynaptic tracing of neural circuitry in predictable directions dictated by the viral envelope glycoprotein (G), derived from either VSV or rabies virus (RABV). Anterograde and retrograde labeling, from initial infection and/or viral replication and transmission, was observed in Old and New World monkeys, seahorses, jellyfish, zebrafish, chickens, and mice. These vectors are widely applicable for gene delivery, afferent tract tracing, and/or directional connectivity mapping. Here, we detail the use of these vectors and provide protocols for propagating virus, changing the surface glycoprotein, and infecting multiple organisms using several injection strategies. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Geniculate arterial pseudoaneurysm formation following trauma and elective orthopaedic surgery to the knee: 2 case reports and a review of the literature

PubMed Central

Shaw, A; Stephen, AB; Lund, JN; Bungay, P; DeNunzio, M

2009-01-01

Arterial pseudoaneurysm formation of the genicular vessels following orthopaedic surgery to the knee is an extremely rare occurrence. Here we report the successful management of two cases as a complication of total knee arthroplasty and a tibial interlocking nail, utilising coil embolisation by interventional radiological techniques and negating the need for further surgery. To our knowledge this is one of the few reported cases of pseudoaneurysms of the descending genicular artery secondary to drain placement and only the second following tibial interlocking nail placement. PMID:22470647

Safe operating conditions for NSLS-II Storage Ring Frontends commissioning

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

Seletskiy, S.; Amundsen, C.; Ha, K.

2015-04-02

The NSLS-II Storage Ring Frontends are designed to safely accept the synchrotron radiation fan produced by respective insertion device when the electron beam orbit through the ID is locked inside the predefined Active Interlock Envelope. The Active Interlock is getting enabled at a particular beam current known as AI safe current limit. Below such current the beam orbit can be anywhere within the limits of the SR beam acceptance. During the FE commissioning the beam orbit is getting intentionally disturbed in the particular ID. In this paper we explore safe operating conditions for the Frontends commissioning.

FUEL ELEMENT INTERLOCKING ARRANGEMENT

DOEpatents

Fortescue, P.; Nicoll, D.

1963-01-01

This patent relates to a system for mutually interlocking a multiplicity of elongated, parallel, coextensive, upright reactor fuel elements so as to render a laterally selfsupporting bundle, while admitting of concurrent, selective, vertical withdrawal of a sizeable number of elements without any of the remaining elements toppling, Each element is provided with a generally rectangular end cap. When a rank of caps is aligned in square contact, each free edge centrally defines an outwardly profecting dovetail, and extremitally cooperates with its adjacent cap by defining a juxtaposed half of a dovetail- receptive mortise. Successive ranks are staggered to afford mating of their dovetails and mortises. (AEC)

Reorganization of neuronal circuits of the central olfactory system during postprandial sleep

PubMed Central

Yamaguchi, Masahiro; Manabe, Hiroyuki; Murata, Koshi; Mori, Kensaku

2013-01-01

Plastic changes in neuronal circuits often occur in association with specific behavioral states. In this review, we focus on an emerging view that neuronal circuits in the olfactory system are reorganized along the wake-sleep cycle. Olfaction is crucial to sustaining the animals' life, and odor-guided behaviors have to be newly acquired or updated to successfully cope with a changing odor world. It is therefore likely that neuronal circuits in the olfactory system are highly plastic and undergo repeated reorganization in daily life. A remarkably plastic feature of the olfactory system is that newly generated neurons are continually integrated into neuronal circuits of the olfactory bulb (OB) throughout life. New neurons in the OB undergo an extensive selection process, during which many are eliminated by apoptosis for the fine tuning of neuronal circuits. The life and death decision of new neurons occurs extensively during a short time window of sleep after food consumption (postprandial sleep), a typical daily olfactory behavior. We review recent studies that explain how olfactory information is transferred between the OB and the olfactory cortex (OC) along the course of the wake-sleep cycle. Olfactory sensory input is effectively transferred from the OB to the OC during waking, while synchronized top-down inputs from the OC to the OB are promoted during the slow-wave sleep. We discuss possible neuronal circuit mechanisms for the selection of new neurons in the OB, which involves the encoding of olfactory sensory inputs and memory trace formation during waking and internally generated activities in the OC and OB during subsequent sleep. The plastic changes in the OB and OC are well coordinated along the course of olfactory behavior during wakefulness and postbehavioral rest and sleep. We therefore propose that the olfactory system provides an excellent model in which to understand behavioral state-dependent plastic mechanisms of the neuronal circuits in the brain. PMID:23966911

High-density interconnect substrates and device packaging using conductive composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gandhi, Pradeep; Gallagher, Catherine; Matijasevic, Goran

1998-02-01

High-end printed circuit board manufacturing technology is receiving increasing attention due to higher functionality in smaller form factors. This is evident from the industry efforts to produced reliable microvias and related trace features to pack as much circuit density as possible. Cost, density and performance requirements have prodded entry into a market that was mainly reserved for ceramic and molded packages for the last forty years. To successfully meet the demanding specifications of this market segment, a worldwide effort is underway for the development of new materials, processes and equipment. A novel base technology that is applicable to most of the major packaging and redistribution elements in an electronic module is presented.High density multilayer circuits with landless blind and buried vias can be fabricated by filling the conductor paste into photoimaged dielectrics and thermally processing it at a relatively lower temperature. Via layers are prepared directly on the inherently planarized circuit layer in an identical fashion. Because these composite materials are applied in an additive fabrication method, metal substrates can be employed for high thermal dissipation and excellent CTE control over a wide temperature range. The conductor material is based on interpenetrating polymer and metal networks that are formed in situ from metal particles and a thermosetting flux/binder. The metal network is formed when the alloy particles melt and react with adjacent high melting point metal particle. Interaction also occurs between the alloy particles and pad, lead or previous trace metallizations provided they are solderable by alloys of tin. The new alloy composition created by the interdiffusion process within the bulk material has a higher melting point than the original alloy and thus solidifies immediately upon formation. This metallurgical reaction, known as transient liquid phase sintering, is facilitated by the polymer mixture. INtegration of the polymer and metal networks is maintained by utilizing a thermosetting polymer system that cures simultaneously with the metallurgical reaction. Although similar in concept and performance to cermet inks, these compositions differ in that their process temperatures are compatible with conventional printed wiring board materials and that the polymeric binder remains to provide adhesion and fatigue resistance to the metallurgical network.

Reward and Aversion.

PubMed

Hu, Hailan

2016-07-08

To benefit from opportunities and cope with challenges in the environment, animals must adapt their behavior to acquire rewards and to avoid punishments. Maladaptive changes in the neuromodulatory systems and neural circuits for reward and aversion can lead to manifestation of several prominent psychiatric disorders including addiction and depression. Recent progress is pushing the boundaries of knowledge on two major fronts in research on reward and aversion: First, new layers of complexity have been reported on the functions of dopamine (DA) and serotonin (5-HT) neuromodulatory systems in reward and aversion. Second, specific circuit components in the neural pathways that encode reward and aversion have begun to be identified. This review aims to outline historic perspectives and new insights into the functions of DA and 5-HT systems in coding the distinct components of rewards. It also highlights recent advances in neural circuit studies enabled by new technologies, such as cell-type-specific electrophysiology and tracing, and optogenetics-based behavioral manipulation. This knowledge may provide guidance for developing novel treatment strategies for neuropsychiatric diseases related to the malfunction of the reward system.

An evaluation of the Swedish ignition interlock program.

PubMed

Bjerre, Bo

2003-01-01

The Swedish alcohol ignition interlock program for driving while intoxicated (DWI) offenders, both first-time as well as multiple offenders, was launched as a pilot project in 1999. It is a volunteer program and differs in some respects from other programs: It covers a period of 2 years, it includes very strict medical regulations entailing regular checkups by a physician, it does not require a prior period of hard suspension, and it focuses strongly on changes in alcohol habits. Records from the 5 years prior to the offence showed that DWI offenders are generally in a high-risk category long before their offense, with a four to five times higher accident rate (road accidents reported by the police) and a three to four times higher rate of hospitalization due to a road accident. Only 12% of the eligible DWI offenders took part in the program and, of these, 60% could be diagnosed as alcohol dependent or alcohol abusers. During the program, alcohol consumption is monitored through self-esteem questionnaires (AUDIT) and five different biological markers. Our data show a noticeable reduction in alcohol consumption among the interlock users. This, combined with the high rate of compliance with the regulations, probably accounts for the fact that there was no case of recidivism during the program. Preliminary findings also suggest a reduction in the annual accident rate for interlock users while in the program. It still is too early to draw any conclusions concerning the rate of recidivism after completion of the program due to an insufficient amount of data for analysis. Nevertheless, the preliminary results are so promising that the program will now be expanded to cover all of Sweden as well as to include all driver's license categories.

Supramolecular structure of the casein micelle.

PubMed

McMahon, D J; Oommen, B S

2008-05-01

The supramolecular structure of colloidal casein micelles in milk was investigated by using a sample preparation protocol based on adsorption of proteins onto a poly-l-lysine and parlodion-coated copper grid, staining of proteins and calcium phosphate by uranyl oxalate, instantaneous freezing, and drying under a high vacuum. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy stereo-images were obtained showing the interior structure of casein micelles. On the basis of our interpretation of these images, an interlocked lattice model was developed in which both casein-calcium phosphate aggregates and casein polymer chains act together to maintain casein micelle integrity. The caseins form linear and branched chains (2 to 5 proteins long) interlocked by the casein-stabilized calcium phosphate nanoclusters. This model suggests that stabilization of calcium phosphate nanoclusters by phosphoserine domains of alpha(s1)-, alpha(s2)-, or beta-casein, or their combination, would orient their hydrophobic domains outward, allowing interaction and binding to other casein molecules. Other interactions between the caseins, such as calcium bridging, could also occur and further stabilize the supramolecule. The combination of having an interlocked lattice structure and multiple interactions results in an open, sponge-like colloidal supramolecule that is resistant to spatial changes and disintegration. Hydrophobic interactions between caseins surrounding a calcium phosphate nanocluster would prevent complete dissociation of casein micelles when the calcium phosphate nanoclusters are solubilized. Likewise, calcium bridging and other electrostatic interactions between caseins would prevent dissociation of the casein micelles into casein-calcium phosphate nanocluster aggregates when milk is cooled or urea is added to milk, and hydrophobic interactions are reduced. The appearance of both polymer chains and small aggregate particles during milk synthesis would also be expected based on this interlocked lattice model of casein micelles, and its supramolecule structure thus exhibits the principles of self-aggregation, interdependence, and diversity observed in nature.

A comparative study of intramedullary interlocking nailing and minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis in extra articular distal tibial fractures.

PubMed

Daolagupu, Arup K; Mudgal, Ashwani; Agarwala, Vikash; Dutta, Kaushik K

2017-01-01

Extraarticular distal tibial fractures are among the most challenging fractures encountered by an orthopedician for treatment because of its subcutaneous location, poor blood supply and decreased muscular cover anteriorly, complications such as delayed union, nonunion, wound infection, and wound dehiscence are often seen as a great challenge to the surgeon. Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) and intramedullary interlocking nail (IMLN) are two well-accepted and effective methods, but each has been historically related to complications. This study compares clinical and radiological outcome in extraarticular distal tibia fractures treated by intramedullary interlocking nail (IMLN) and minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO). 42 patients included in this study, 21 underwent IMLN and 21 were treated with MIPO who met the inclusion criteria and operated between June 2014 and May 2015. Patients were followed up for clinical and radiological evaluation. In IMLN group, average union time was 18.26 weeks compared to 21.70 weeks in plating group which was significant ( P < 0.0001). Average time required for partial and full weight bearing in the nailing group was 4.95 weeks and 10.09 weeks respectively which was significantly less ( P < 0.0001) as compared to 6.90 weeks and 13.38 weeks in the plating group. Lesser complications in terms of implant irritation, ankle stiffness, and infection, were seen in interlocking group as compared to plating group. Average functional outcome according to American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society score was measured which came out to be 96.67. IMLN group was associated with lesser duration of surgery, earlier weight bearing and union rate, lesser incidence of infection and implant irritation which makes it a preferable choice for fixation of extra-articular distal tibial fractures. However, larger randomized controlled trials are required for confirming the results.

Deep learning and shapes similarity for joint segmentation and tracing single neurons in SEM images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rao, Qiang; Xiao, Chi; Han, Hua; Chen, Xi; Shen, Lijun; Xie, Qiwei

2017-02-01

Extracting the structure of single neurons is critical for understanding how they function within the neural circuits. Recent developments in microscopy techniques, and the widely recognized need for openness and standardization provide a community resource for automated reconstruction of dendritic and axonal morphology of single neurons. In order to look into the fine structure of neurons, we use the Automated Tape-collecting Ultra Microtome Scanning Electron Microscopy (ATUM-SEM) to get images sequence of serial sections of animal brain tissue that densely packed with neurons. Different from other neuron reconstruction method, we propose a method that enhances the SEM images by detecting the neuronal membranes with deep convolutional neural network (DCNN) and segments single neurons by active contour with group shape similarity. We joint the segmentation and tracing together and they interact with each other by alternate iteration that tracing aids the selection of candidate region patch for active contour segmentation while the segmentation provides the neuron geometrical features which improve the robustness of tracing. The tracing model mainly relies on the neuron geometrical features and is updated after neuron being segmented on the every next section. Our method enables the reconstruction of neurons of the drosophila mushroom body which is cut to serial sections and imaged under SEM. Our method provides an elementary step for the whole reconstruction of neuronal networks.

Corticosterone Signaling and a Lateral Habenula-Ventral Tegmental Area Circuit Modulate Compulsive Self-Injurious Behavior in a Rat Model.

PubMed

Guo, Yujie; Tang, Xun; Zhang, Jichuan; Jin, Sen; Li, Jinnan; Ding, Lufeng; Zhang, Keming; Yang, Chaoyu; Zhou, Hua; He, Xiaobin; Xu, Fuqiang; Bi, Guo-Qiang; Xu, Lin; Lau, Pak-Ming

2018-06-06

Self-injurious behavior (SIB) is commonly observed in patients with neuropsychiatric disorders, as well as in nonclinical populations with stress-related mental-health problems. However, the exact circuitry mechanisms underlying SIB have remained poorly understood. Here, with bilateral injection of muscimol into the entopeduncular nucleus (EP), we established a rat model of SIB. Following the muscimol injection, the male rats exhibited in a dose-dependent manner stereotypic self-biting behavior that lasted for hours and often resulted in wounds of various severities. The SIB was associated with an elevated level of serum corticosterone and could be exacerbated by enhancing the corticosterone signaling and, conversely, alleviated by inhibiting the corticosterone signaling. Activity mapping using c-fos immunostaining, combined with connectivity mapping using herpes simplex virus-based anterograde tracing from the EP and pseudorabies virus-based retrograde tracing from the masseter muscle, revealed the potential involvement of many brain areas in SIB. In particular, the lateral habenula (LHb) and the ventral tegmental area (VTA), the two connected brain areas involved in stress response and reward processing, showed a significant increase in neuronal activation during SIB. Furthermore, suppressing the LHb activity or modulating the GABAergic transmission in the VTA could significantly reduce the occurrence of SIB. These results demonstrate the importance of stress hormone signaling and the LHb-VTA circuit in modulating SIB resulting from EP malfunction, and suggest potential targets for therapeutic intervention of SIB and related disorders. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Self-injurious behavior (SIB) occurs in ∼4% of the general population, with substantially higher occurrence among adolescents and patients of neuropsychiatric disorders. Stress has been linked to the occurrence of SIB, yet the underlying mechanisms have remained unclear. Using a rat model of SIB induced by disruption of activity in the entopeduncular nucleus (EP), we found that the behavior is regulated by stress and linked to corticosterone signaling. Viral tracing and c-fos immunostaining revealed the involvement of various subcortical areas, especially the EP-lateral habenula (LHb)-ventral tegmental area (VTA) circuit, in SIB. Furthermore, regulating activity in the LHb or the VTA alleviates SIB. These results may have implications in the development of new strategies for treating SIB. Copyright © 2018 the authors 0270-6474/18/385252-16$15.00/0.

Methods and systems for rapid prototyping of high density circuits

DOEpatents

Palmer, Jeremy A [Albuquerque, NM; Davis, Donald W [Albuquerque, NM; Chavez, Bart D [Albuquerque, NM; Gallegos, Phillip L [Albuquerque, NM; Wicker, Ryan B [El Paso, TX; Medina, Francisco R [El Paso, TX

2008-09-02

A preferred embodiment provides, for example, a system and method of integrating fluid media dispensing technology such as direct-write (DW) technologies with rapid prototyping (RP) technologies such as stereolithography (SL) to provide increased micro-fabrication and micro-stereolithography. A preferred embodiment of the present invention also provides, for example, a system and method for Rapid Prototyping High Density Circuit (RPHDC) manufacturing of solderless connectors and pilot devices with terminal geometries that are compatible with DW mechanisms and reduce contact resistance where the electrical system is encapsulated within structural members and manual electrical connections are eliminated in favor of automated DW traces. A preferred embodiment further provides, for example, a method of rapid prototyping comprising: fabricating a part layer using stereolithography and depositing thermally curable media onto the part layer using a fluid dispensing apparatus.

Interlocking-induced stiffness in stochastically microcracked materials beyond the transport percolation threshold

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Picu, R. C.; Pal, A.; Lupulescu, M. V.

2016-04-01

We study the mechanical behavior of two-dimensional, stochastically microcracked continua in the range of crack densities close to, and above, the transport percolation threshold. We show that these materials retain stiffness up to crack densities much larger than the transport percolation threshold due to topological interlocking of sample subdomains. Even with a linear constitutive law for the continuum, the mechanical behavior becomes nonlinear in the range of crack densities bounded by the transport and stiffness percolation thresholds. The effect is due to the fractal nature of the fragmentation process and is not linked to the roughness of individual cracks.

Successful embolization using interlocking detachable coils for a congenital extrahepatic portosystemic venous shunt in a child.

PubMed

Yamagami, Takuji; Yoshimatsu, Rika; Matsumoto, Tomohiro; Terayama, Koshi; Nishiumra, Akira; Maeda, Yousuke; Nishimura, Tsunehiko

2007-11-01

The authors report the case of a 6-year-old boy with a congenital extrahepatic portosystemic venous shunt. He had hyperammonemia. The shunt was 18 mm in diameter and located between the inferior mesenteric vein and the left internal iliac vein. The flow in the shunt was very rapid. After decreasing blood flow by inflating a balloon catheter inserted into the left internal iliac vein from the femoral vein, a microcatheter was coaxially advanced to the shunt to embolize the shunt. Embolization was successfully performed with interlocking detachable coils and microcoils without any complication. This patient's hyperammonemia resolved soon after the procedure.

Photovoltaic module and interlocked stack of photovoltaic modules

DOEpatents

Wares, Brian S.

2012-09-04

One embodiment relates to an arrangement of photovoltaic modules configured for transportation. The arrangement includes a plurality of photovoltaic modules, each photovoltaic module including a frame having at least a top member and a bottom member. A plurality of alignment features are included on the top member of each frame, and a plurality of alignment features are included on the bottom member of each frame. Adjacent photovoltaic modules are interlocked by the alignment features on the top member of a lower module fitting together with the alignment features on the bottom member of an upper module. Other embodiments, features and aspects are also disclosed.

Micromechanics of fatigue in woven and stitched composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cox, B. N.; Dadkhah, M. S.; Inman, R. V.; Mitchell, M. R.; Morris, W. L.; Schroeder, S.

1991-01-01

The goal is to determine how microstructural factors, especially the architecture of microstructural factors, control fatigue damage in 3D reinforced polymer composites. Test materials were fabricated from various preforms, including stitched quasi-isotropic laminates, and through-the-thickness angle interlock, layer-to-layer angle interlock, and through-the-thickness stitching effect weaves. Preforms were impregnated with a tough resin by a special vacuum infiltration method. Most tests are being performed in uniaxial compression/compression loading. In all cases to date, failure has occurred not by delamination, but by shear failure, which occurs suddenly rather than by gradual macroscopic crack growth. Some theoretical aspects of bridging are also examined.

Reversible photocapture of a [2]rotaxane harnessing a barbiturate template.

PubMed

Tron, Arnaud; Thornton, Peter J; Lincheneau, Christophe; Desvergne, Jean-Pierre; Spencer, Neil; Tucker, James H R; McClenaghan, Nathan D

2015-01-16

Photoirradiation of a hydrogen-bonded molecular complex comprising acyclic components, namely, a stoppered thread (1) with a central barbiturate motif and an optimized doubly anthracene-terminated acyclic Hamilton-like receptor (2b), leads to an interlocked architecture, which was isolated and fully characterized. The sole isolated interlocked photoproduct (Φ = 0.06) is a [2]rotaxane, with the dimerized anthracenes assuming a head-to-tail geometry, as evidenced by NMR spectroscopy and consistent with molecular modeling (PM6). A different behavior was observed on irradiating homologous molecular complexes 1⊂2a, 1⊂2b, and 1⊂2c, where the spacers of 2a, 2b, and 2c incorporated 3, 6, and 9 methylene units, respectively. While no evidence of interlocked structure formation was observed following irradiation of 1⊂2a, a kinetically labile rotaxane was obtained on irradiating the complex 1⊂2c, and ring slippage was revealed. A more stable [2]rotaxane was formed on irradiating 1⊂2b, whose capture is found to be fully reversible upon heating, thereby resetting the system, with some fatigue (38%) after four irradiation–thermal reversion cycles.

On the modeling and characterization of an interlocked flexible electronic skin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khalili, Nazanin; Shen, Xuechen; Naguib, Hani E.

2017-04-01

Development of an electronic skin with ultra-high pressure sensitivity is now of critical importance due its broad range of applications including prosthetic skins and biomimetic robotics. Microstructured conductive composite elastomers can acquire mechanical and electrical properties analogous to those of natural skin. One of the most prominent features of human skin is its tactile sensing property which can be mimicked in an electronic skin. Herein, an electrically conductive composite comprising polydimethylsiloxane and conductive fillers is used as a flexible and stretchable piezoresistive sensor. The electrical conductivity is induced within the elastomer matrix via carbon nanotubes whereas the piezoresistivity is obtained by means of microstructuring the surface of the substrate. An interlocked array of pyramids in micro-scale allows the change in the contact resistance between two thin layers of the composite upon application of an external load. Deformation of the interlocked arrays endows the sensor with an ultra-high sensitivity to the external pressures within the range of human skin perception. Moreover, using finite element analysis, the change in the contact are between the two layers was captured for different geometries. The structure of the sensor can be optimized through an optimization model in order to acquire maximum sensitivity.

Hydrothermally grown α-MnO2 interlocked mesoporous micro-cubes of several nanocrystals as selective and sensitive nitrogen dioxide chemoresistive gas sensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shinde, Pritamkumar V.; Xia, Qi Xun; Ghule, Balaji G.; Shinde, Nanasaheb M.; Seonghee, Jeong; Kim, Kwang Ho; Mane, Rajaram S.

2018-06-01

The interesting and multifunctional properties of alpha-manganese dioxide (α-MnO2) are considered to be highly sensitive and selective to nitrogen dioxide (NO2) chemresistive gas sensors. The α-MnO2 mesoporous interlocked micro-cubes composed of several interconnected nanocrystals synthesized by a facile and low-cost hydrothermal method on soda-lime glass substrate are envisaged as selective and sensitive NO2 gas sensors. Phase-purity and surface area with pore-size distribution are initially screened. The three-dimensional α-MnO2 mesoporous-cube-based gas sensors tested for NO2 gas from room-temperature (27 °C) to 250 °C have demonstrated 33% response for 100 ppm NO2 levels at 150 °C. The response and recovery time values of the α-MnO2 sensor are found to be 26 s and recovery 91 s, respectively, with high selectivity, good sensitivity, and considerable chemical and environmental stabilities, confirming the gas sensor applications potentiality of α-MnO2 morphology which is a combination of interlocked mesoporous micro-cubes and well-connected nanocrystals.

Instrumentation and control system architecture of ECRH SST1

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Patel, Harshida; Patel, Jatin; purohit, Dharmesh; Shukla, B. K.; Babu, Rajan; Mistry, Hardik

2017-07-01

The Electron Cyclotron Resonance Heating (ECRH) system is an important heating system for the reliable start-up of tokamak. The 42GHz and 82.6GHz Gyrotron based ECRH systems are used in tokomaks SST-1 and Aditya to carry out ECRH related experiments. The Gyrotrons are high power microwave tubes used as a source for ECRH systems. The Gyrotrons need to be handled with optimum care right from the installation to its Full parameter control operation. The Gyrotrons are associated with the subsystems like: High voltage power supplies (Beam voltage and anode voltage), dedicated crowbar system, magnet, filament and ion pump power supplies and cooling system. The other subsystems are transmission line, launcher and dummy load. A dedicated VME based data acquisition & control (DAC) system is developed to operate and control the Gyrotron and its associated sub system. For the safe operation of Gyrotron, two level interlocks with fail-safe logic are developed. Slow signals that are operated in scale of millisecond range are programmed through software and hardware interlock in scale of microsecond range are designed and developed indigenously. Water-cooling and the associated interlock are monitored and control by data logger with independent human machine interface.

Method and apparatus for phase for and amplitude detection

DOEpatents

Cernosek, Richard W.; Frye, Gregory C.; Martin, Stephen J.

1998-06-09

A new class of techniques been developed which allow inexpensive application of SAW-type chemical sensor devices while retaining high sensitivity (ppm) to chemical detection. The new techniques do not require that the sensor be part of an oscillatory circuit, allowing large concentrations of, e.g., chemical vapors in air, to be accurately measured without compromising the capacity to measure trace concentrations. Such devices have numerous potential applications in environmental monitoring, from manufacturing environments to environmental restoration.

Circuit-Switched Memory Access in Photonic Interconnection Networks for High-Performance Embedded Computing

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-07-22

dependent , providing a natural bandwidth match between compute cores and the memory subsystem. • High Bandwidth Dcnsity. Waveguides crossing the chip...simulate this memory access architecture on a 2S6-core chip with a concentrated 64-node network lIsing detailed traces of high-performance embedded...memory modulcs, wc placc memory access poi nts (MAPs) around the pcriphery of the chip connected to thc nctwork. These MAPs, shown in Figure 4, contain

Memory traces for spoken words in the brain as revealed by the hemodynamic correlate of the mismatch negativity.

PubMed

Shtyrov, Yury; Osswald, Katja; Pulvermüller, Friedemann

2008-01-01

The mismatch negativity response, considered a brain correlate of automatic preattentive auditory processing, is enhanced for word stimuli as compared with acoustically matched pseudowords. This lexical enhancement, taken as a signature of activation of language-specific long-term memory traces, was investigated here using functional magnetic resonance imaging to complement the previous electrophysiological studies. In passive oddball paradigm, word stimuli were randomly presented as rare deviants among frequent pseudowords; the reverse conditions employed infrequent pseudowords among word stimuli. Random-effect analysis indicated clearly distinct patterns for the different lexical types. Whereas the hemodynamic mismatch response was significant for the word deviants, it did not reach significance for the pseudoword conditions. This difference, more pronounced in the left than right hemisphere, was also assessed by analyzing average parameter estimates in regions of interests within both temporal lobes. A significant hemisphere-by-lexicality interaction confirmed stronger blood oxygenation level-dependent mismatch responses to words than pseudowords in the left but not in the right superior temporal cortex. The increased left superior temporal activation and the laterality of cortical sources elicited by spoken words compared with pseudowords may indicate the activation of cortical circuits for lexical material even in passive oddball conditions and suggest involvement of the left superior temporal areas in housing such word-processing neuronal circuits.

Teste Albumasare cum Sibylla: astrology and the Sibyls in medieval Europe.

PubMed

Smoller, Laura Ackerman

2010-06-01

In the 1480s Dominican humanist Filippo de' Barbieri published an illustration of a supposedly ancient female seer called the 'Sybilla Chimica', whose prophetic text repeated the words of the ninth-century astrologer Abu Ma'shar. In tracing the origins of Barbieri's astrological Sibyl, this article examines three sometimes interlocking traditions: the attribution of an ante-diluvian history to the science of the stars, the assertion of astrology's origins in divine revelation, and the belief in the ancient Sibyls' predictions of the birth of Christ and other Christian truths. Medieval authors from the twelfth century on began to cite these traditions together, thereby simultaneously authorizing the use of astrology to predict religious changes and blurring the categories of natural and supernatural as applied to human understanding. This blending of astrology and prophecy appears notably in works by such authors as John of Paris, John of Legnano, Johannes Lichtenberger, and Marsilio Ficino. Ultimately the trajectory that produced Barbieri's astrological Sibyl would lead to a wave of astrological apocalyptic predictions in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, as well as to the harnessing of astrology for the defense of the faith in the form of an astrological natural theology, sacralizing science as well as nature.

Temporal integration and 1/f power scaling in a circuit model of cerebellar interneurons.

PubMed

Maex, Reinoud; Gutkin, Boris

2017-07-01

Inhibitory interneurons interconnected via electrical and chemical (GABA A receptor) synapses form extensive circuits in several brain regions. They are thought to be involved in timing and synchronization through fast feedforward control of principal neurons. Theoretical studies have shown, however, that whereas self-inhibition does indeed reduce response duration, lateral inhibition, in contrast, may generate slow response components through a process of gradual disinhibition. Here we simulated a circuit of interneurons (stellate and basket cells) of the molecular layer of the cerebellar cortex and observed circuit time constants that could rise, depending on parameter values, to >1 s. The integration time scaled both with the strength of inhibition, vanishing completely when inhibition was blocked, and with the average connection distance, which determined the balance between lateral and self-inhibition. Electrical synapses could further enhance the integration time by limiting heterogeneity among the interneurons and by introducing a slow capacitive current. The model can explain several observations, such as the slow time course of OFF-beam inhibition, the phase lag of interneurons during vestibular rotation, or the phase lead of Purkinje cells. Interestingly, the interneuron spike trains displayed power that scaled approximately as 1/ f at low frequencies. In conclusion, stellate and basket cells in cerebellar cortex, and interneuron circuits in general, may not only provide fast inhibition to principal cells but also act as temporal integrators that build a very short-term memory. NEW & NOTEWORTHY The most common function attributed to inhibitory interneurons is feedforward control of principal neurons. In many brain regions, however, the interneurons are densely interconnected via both chemical and electrical synapses but the function of this coupling is largely unknown. Based on large-scale simulations of an interneuron circuit of cerebellar cortex, we propose that this coupling enhances the integration time constant, and hence the memory trace, of the circuit. Copyright © 2017 the American Physiological Society.

A Flexible Arrayed Eddy Current Sensor for Inspection of Hollow Axle Inner Surfaces.

PubMed

Sun, Zhenguo; Cai, Dong; Zou, Cheng; Zhang, Wenzeng; Chen, Qiang

2016-06-23

A reliable and accurate inspection of the hollow axle inner surface is important for the safe operation of high-speed trains. In order to improve the reliability of the inspection, a flexible arrayed eddy current sensor for non-destructive testing of the hollow axle inner surface was designed, fabricated and characterized. The sensor, consisting of two excitation traces and 28 sensing traces, was developed by using the flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) technique to conform the geometric features of the inner surfaces of the hollow axles. The main innovative aspect of the sensor was the new arrangement of excitation/sensing traces to achieve a differential configuration. Finite element model was established to analyze sensor responses and to determine the optimal excitation frequency. Experimental validations were conducted on a specimen with several artificial defects. Results from experiments and simulations were consistent with each other, with the maximum relative error less than 4%. Both results proved that the sensor was capable of detecting longitudinal and transverse defects with the depth of 0.5 mm under the optimal excitation frequency of 0.9 MHz.

The Lateral Habenula Circuitry: Reward Processing and Cognitive Control

PubMed Central

Baker, Phillip M.; Jhou, Thomas; Matsumoto, Masayuki; Mizumori, Sheri J.Y.; Stephenson-Jones, Marcus

2016-01-01

There has been a growing interest in understanding the role of the lateral habenula (LHb) in reward processing, affect regulation, and goal-directed behaviors. The LHb gets major inputs from the habenula-projecting globus pallidus and the mPFC, sending its efferents to the dopaminergic VTA and SNc, serotonergic dorsal raphe nuclei, and the GABAergic rostromedial tegmental nucleus. Recent studies have made advances in our understanding of the LHb circuit organization, yet the precise mechanisms of its involvement in complex behaviors are largely unknown. To begin to address this unresolved question, we present here emerging cross-species perspectives with a goal to provide a more refined understanding of the role of the LHb circuits in reward and cognition. We begin by highlighting recent findings from rodent experiments using optogenetics, electrophysiology, molecular, pharmacology, and tracing techniques that reveal diverse neural phenotypes in the LHb circuits that may underlie previously undescribed behavioral functions. We then discuss results from electrophysiological studies in macaques that suggest that the LHb cooperates with the anterior cingulate cortex to monitor action outcomes and signal behavioral adjustment. Finally, we provide an integrated summary of cross-species findings and discuss how further research on the connectivity, neural signaling, and physiology of the LHb circuits can deepen our understanding of the role of the LHb in normal and maladaptive behaviors associated with mental illnesses and drug abuse. PMID:27911751

Establishment of a universal and rational gene detection strategy through three-way junction-based remote transduction.

PubMed

Tang, Yidan; Lu, Baiyang; Zhu, Zhentong; Li, Bingling

2018-01-21

The polymerase chain reaction and many isothermal amplifications are able to achieve super gene amplification. Unfortunately, most commonly-used transduction methods, such as dye staining and Taqman-like probing, still suffer from shortcomings including false signals or difficult probe design, or are incompatible with multi-analysis. Here a universal and rational gene detection strategy has been established by translating isothermal amplicons to enzyme-free strand displacement circuits via three-way junction-based remote transduction. An assistant transduction probe was imported to form a partial hybrid with the target single-stranded nucleic acid. After systematic optimization the hybrid could serve as an associative trigger to activate a downstream circuit detector via a strand displacement reaction across the three-way junction. By doing so, the detection selectivity can be double-guaranteed through both amplicon-transducer recognition and the amplicon-circuit reaction. A well-optimized circuit can be immediately applied to a new target detection through simply displacing only 10-12 nt on only one component, according to the target. More importantly, this property for the first time enables multi-analysis and logic-analysis in a single reaction, sharing a single fluorescence reporter. In an applicable model, trace amounts of Cronobacter and Enterobacteria genes have been clearly distinguished from samples with no bacteria or one bacterium, with ultra-high sensitivity and selectivity.

Introduction to Concurrent Engineering: Electronic Circuit Design and Production Applications

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-09-01

STD-1629. Failure mode distribution data for many different types of parts may be found in RAC publication FMD -91. FMEA utilizes inductive logic in a...contrasts with a Fault Tree Analysis ( FTA ) which utilizes deductive logic in a "top down" approach. In FTA , a system failure is assumed and traced down...Analysis ( FTA ) is a graphical method of risk analysis used to identify critical failure modes within a system or equipment. Utilizing a pictorial approach

Electronic computers and telephone exchanges

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Flowers, T. H.

1980-01-01

A retrospective on the telephone, with emphasis on development of digital methods, is presented. Starting with its invention in 1876, major breakthroughs in transmission and switching circuitry are reviewed. The thermionic valve (1917), the Eccles-Jordan trigger circuit (1921), copper oxide rectifiers (1920's), and the gas-tube binary counter (1931) are highlighted. The evolution of logic design in telephone exchanges and the interaction this had with electronic computers is then traced up to the appearance of COLOSSUS, a specialized electronic computer used for cryptanalysis (1943).

Method and apparatus for phase and amplitude detection

DOEpatents

Cernosek, R.W.; Frye, G.C.; Martin, S.J.

1998-06-09

A new class of techniques has been developed which allow inexpensive application of SAW-type chemical sensor devices while retaining high sensitivity (ppm) to chemical detection. The new techniques do not require that the sensor be part of an oscillatory circuit, allowing large concentrations of, e.g., chemical vapors in air, to be accurately measured without compromising the capacity to measure trace concentrations. Such devices have numerous potential applications in environmental monitoring, from manufacturing environments to environmental restoration. 12 figs.

From learning to forgetting: behavioral, circuitry, and molecular properties define the different functional states of the recognition memory trace.

PubMed

Romero-Granados, Rocío; Fontán-Lozano, Angela; Delgado-García, José María; Carrión, Angel M

2010-05-01

Neuropsychological analyses of amnesic patients, as well as lesion experiments, indicate that the temporal lobe is essential for the encoding, storage, and expression of object recognition memory (ORM). However, temporal lobe structures directly involved in the consolidation and reconsolidation of these memories are not yet well-defined. We report here that systemic administration of a protein synthesis inhibitor before or up to 4 h after training or reactivation sessions impairs consolidation and reconsolidation of ORM, without affecting short-term memory. We have also observed that ORM reconsolidation is sensitive to protein synthesis inhibition, independently of the ORM trace age. Using bdnf and egr-1 gene expression analysis, we defined temporal lobe areas related to consolidation and reconsolidation of ORM. Training and reactivation 21 days after ORM acquisition sessions provoked changes in bdnf mRNA in somatosensory, perirhinal, and hippocampal cortices. Reactivation 2 days after the training session elicited changes in bdnf and egr-1 mRNA in entorhinal and prefrontal cortices, while reactivation 9 days post-training provoked an increase in egr-1 transcription in somatosensory and entorhinal cortices. The differences in activated circuits and in the capacity to recall the memory trace after 9 or 21 days post-training suggest that memory trace suffers functional changes in this period of time. All these results indicate that the functional state of the recognition memory trace, from acquisition to forgetting, can be specifically defined by behavioral, circuitry, and molecular properties. 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Status of the Superconducting Insertion Device Control at TLS

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

Hu, K. H.; Wang, C. J.; Lee, Demi

2007-01-19

Superconducting insertion devices are installed at Taiwan Light Source to meet the rapidly growing demand of X-ray users. A control system supports the operation of all these superconducting insertion devices. Control system coordinates the operation of the main power supply and the trimming power supply to charge/discharge the magnet and provide essential interlock protection for the coils and vacuum ducts. Quench protection and various cryogenic interlocks are designed to prevent damage to the magnet. A friendly user interface supports routine operation. Various applications are also developed to aid the operation of these insertion devices. Design consideration and details of themore » implementation will be summarized in this report.« less

Catenanes: Fifty Years of Molecular Links

PubMed Central

Gil-Ramírez, Guzmán; Leigh, David A; Stephens, Alexander J

2015-01-01

Half a century after Schill and Lüttringhaus carried out the first directed synthesis of a [2]catenane, a plethora of strategies now exist for the construction of molecular Hopf links (singly interlocked rings), the simplest type of catenane. The precision and effectiveness with which suitable templates and/or noncovalent interactions can arrange building blocks has also enabled the synthesis of intricate and often beautiful higher order interlocked systems, including Solomon links, Borromean rings, and a Star of David catenane. This Review outlines the diverse strategies that exist for synthesizing catenanes in the 21st century and examines their emerging applications and the challenges that still exist for the synthesis of more complex topologies. PMID:25951013

Bacterial carbonate precipitation improves water absorption of interlocking compressed earth block (ICEB)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zamer, M. M.; Irwan, J. M.; Othman, N.; Faisal, S. K.; Anneza, L. H.; Alshalif, A. F.; Teddy, T.

2017-11-01

Interlocking compressed earth blocks (ICEB) are soil based blocks that allows for mortarless construction. The addition of many alternative materials into interlocking block in order to improve the durability has been reported. However there are currently lack of report and evidence on the application of biocalcification or microbiologically induced calcite precipitation (MICP) in improving the engineering properties of ICEB. This paper evaluate the effect of UB in improving the water absorption properties of ICEB. This paper also provide the results on SEM analysis of addition of 1%, 3% and 5% UB in ICEB. The bacteria were added as partial replacement of limestone water in ICEB. The results showed the reduction of 14.72% with 5% UB on initial water absorption followed by the results for water absorption by 24-hour soaking which also indicates reduction of 14.68% with 5% UB on 28th days of testing compared to control specimen. It was expected that the reduction of water absorption was due to the plugging of pores by the bacterial calcite which prevent ingression of water in ICEB samples. Therefore this study hopes that the positive results from the UB as improving in water absorption of ICEB will lead to improve others ICEB properties and others construction materials.

Organism Detection in Permeable Pavement Parking Lot Infiltrates at the Edison Environmental Center, New Jersey.

PubMed

Selvakumar, Ariamalar; O'Connor, Thomas P

2018-01-01

  Three types of permeable pavements were monitored at the Edison Environmental Center in Edison, New Jersey, for indicator organisms such as fecal coliform, enterococci, and Escherichia coli. Results showed that porous asphalt had a much lower concentration in monitored infiltrate compared to pervious concrete and permeable interlocking concrete pavers; concentrations of monitored organisms in infiltrate from porous asphalt were consistently below the bathing water quality standard and actually had limited detection. Fecal coliform and enterococci exceeded bathing water quality standards more than 72 and 34% of the time for permeable interlocking concrete pavers and pervious concrete, respectively. Concentration reductions greater than 90% were observed for all three indicator organisms for porous asphalt and fecal coliform and E. coli for pervious concrete when compared to runoff values, while permeable interlocking concrete pavers only had a modest (39%) observable reduction for E. coli only. The near absence of indicator organisms observed in the porous asphalt infiltrate may be due to the high pH potentially due to asphalt processing. Neither rain intensity nor temperature was demonstrated to have an observable effect in both concentrations of organisms and performance of permeable pavement; but this may due to the limitations of the dataset consisting of 16 events over an 8-month period.

Removal torque of nail interlocking screws is related to screw proximity to the fracture and screw breakage.

PubMed

White, Alexander A; Kubacki, Meghan R; Samona, Jason; Telehowski, Paul; Atkinson, Patrick J

2016-06-01

Studies have shown that titanium implants can be challenging to explant due to the material's excellent biocompatibility and resulting osseointegration. Clinically, titanium alloy nail interlocking screws may require removal to dynamize a construct or revise the nail due to nonunion, infection, pain, or periprosthetic fracture. This study was designed to determine what variables influence the removal torque for titanium alloy interlocking screws. An intramedullary nail with four interlocking screws was used to stabilize a 1-cm segmental femoral defect in a canine model for 16 weeks. The animals were observed to be active following a several-day recovery after surgery. In six animals, the femora and implanted nail/screws were first tested to failure in torsion to simulate periprosthetic fracture of an implant after which the screws were then removed. In four additional animals, the screws were removed without mechanical testing. Both intraoperative insertional and extraction torques were recorded for all screws. Mechanical testing to failure broke 10/24 screws. On average, the intact screws required 70% of the insertional torque during removal while broken screws only required 16% of the insertional torque (p < 0.001). In addition, intact screws closer to the fracture required 2.8 times more removal torque than the outboard distal screw (p < 0.005). On average, the angle of rotation to peak torque was ∼80°. The peak axial load did not significantly correlate with the torque required to remove the screws. On average, the removal torque was lower than at the time of insertion, and less torque was required to remove broken screws and screws remote to the fracture. However, broken screws will require additional time to retrieve the remaining screw fragment. This study suggests that broken screws and screws in prematurely active patients will require less torque to remove. © IMechE 2016.

A portable fluorescence detector for fast ultra trace detection of explosive vapors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xin, Yunhong; He, Gang; Wang, Qi; Fang, Yu

2011-10-01

This paper developed a portable detector based on a specific material-based fluorescent sensing film for an ultra trace detection of explosives, such as 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) or its derivate 2,4-dinitrotoluene (DNT), in ambient air or on objects tainted by explosives. The fluorescent sensing films are based on single-layer chemistry and the signal amplification effect of conjugated polymers, which exhibited higher sensitivity and shorter response time to TNT or DNT at their vapor pressures. Due to application of the light emitting diode and the solid state photomultiplier and the cross-correlation-based circuit design technology, the device has the advantages of low-power, low-cost, small size, and an improved signal to noise ratio. The results of the experiments showed that the detector can real-time detect and identify of explosive vapors at extremely low levels; it is suitable for the identification of suspect luggage, forensic analyses, or battlefields clearing.

Chip-to-Chip Half Duplex Spiking Data Communication over Power Supply Rails

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hashida, Takushi; Nagata, Makoto

Chip-to-chip serial data communication is superposed on power supply over common Vdd/Vss connections through chip, package, and board traces. A power line transceiver demonstrates half duplex spiking communication at more than 100Mbps. A pair of transceivers consumes 1.35mA from 3.3V, at 130Mbps. On-chip power line LC low pass filter attenuates pseudo-differential communication spikes by 30dB, purifying power supply current for internal circuits. Bi-directional spiking communication was successfully examined in a 90-nm CMOS prototype setup of on-chip waveform capturing. A micro controller forwards clock pulses to and receives data streams from a comparator based waveform capturer formed on a different chip, through a single pair of power and ground traces. The bit error rate is small enough not to degrade waveform acquisition capability, maintaining the spurious free dynamic range of higher than 50dB.

A portable fluorescence detector for fast ultra trace detection of explosive vapors.

PubMed

Xin, Yunhong; He, Gang; Wang, Qi; Fang, Yu

2011-10-01

This paper developed a portable detector based on a specific material-based fluorescent sensing film for an ultra trace detection of explosives, such as 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) or its derivate 2,4-dinitrotoluene (DNT), in ambient air or on objects tainted by explosives. The fluorescent sensing films are based on single-layer chemistry and the signal amplification effect of conjugated polymers, which exhibited higher sensitivity and shorter response time to TNT or DNT at their vapor pressures. Due to application of the light emitting diode and the solid state photomultiplier and the cross-correlation-based circuit design technology, the device has the advantages of low-power, low-cost, small size, and an improved signal to noise ratio. The results of the experiments showed that the detector can real-time detect and identify of explosive vapors at extremely low levels; it is suitable for the identification of suspect luggage, forensic analyses, or battlefields clearing.

Sparse genetic tracing reveals regionally specific functional organization of mammalian nociceptors.

PubMed

Olson, William; Abdus-Saboor, Ishmail; Cui, Lian; Burdge, Justin; Raabe, Tobias; Ma, Minghong; Luo, Wenqin

2017-10-12

The human distal limbs have a high spatial acuity for noxious stimuli but a low density of pain-sensing neurites. To elucidate mechanisms underlying regional differences in processing nociception, we sparsely traced non-peptidergic nociceptors across the body using a newly generated Mrgprd CreERT2 mouse line. We found that mouse plantar paw skin is also innervated by a low density of Mrgprd + nociceptors, while individual arbors in different locations are comparable in size. Surprisingly, the central arbors of plantar paw and trunk innervating nociceptors have distinct morphologies in the spinal cord. This regional difference is well correlated with a heightened signal transmission for plantar paw circuits, as revealed by both spinal cord slice recordings and behavior assays. Taken together, our results elucidate a novel somatotopic functional organization of the mammalian pain system and suggest that regional central arbor structure could facilitate the "enlarged representation" of plantar paw regions in the CNS.

Topological interlocking provides stiffness to stochastically micro-cracked materials beyond the transport percolation limit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pal, Anirban; Picu, Catalin; Lupulescu, Marian V.

We study the mechanical behavior of two-dimensional, stochastically microcracked continua in the range of crack densities close to, and above the transport percolation threshold. We show that these materials retain stiffness up to crack densities much larger than the transport percolation threshold, due to topological interlocking of sample sub-domains. Even with a linear constitutive law for the continuum, the mechanical behavior becomes non-linear in the range of crack densities bounded by the transport and stiffness percolation thresholds. The effect is due to the fractal nature of the fragmentation process and is not linked to the roughness of individual cracks. We associate this behavior to that of itacolumite, a sandstone that exhibits unusual flexibility.

Role of Immediate-Early Genes in Synaptic Plasticity and Neuronal Ensembles Underlying the Memory Trace

PubMed Central

Minatohara, Keiichiro; Akiyoshi, Mika; Okuno, Hiroyuki

2016-01-01

In the brain, neuronal gene expression is dynamically changed in response to neuronal activity. In particular, the expression of immediate-early genes (IEGs) such as egr-1, c-fos, and Arc is rapidly and selectively upregulated in subsets of neurons in specific brain regions associated with learning and memory formation. IEG expression has therefore been widely used as a molecular marker for neuronal populations that undergo plastic changes underlying formation of long-term memory. In recent years, optogenetic and pharmacogenetic studies of neurons expressing c-fos or Arc have revealed that, during learning, IEG-positive neurons encode and store information that is required for memory recall, suggesting that they may be involved in formation of the memory trace. However, despite accumulating evidence for the role of IEGs in synaptic plasticity, the molecular and cellular mechanisms associated with this process remain unclear. In this review, we first summarize recent literature concerning the role of IEG-expressing neuronal ensembles in organizing the memory trace. We then focus on the physiological significance of IEGs, especially Arc, in synaptic plasticity, and describe our hypotheses about the importance of Arc expression in various types of input-specific circuit reorganization. Finally, we offer perspectives on Arc function that would unveil the role of IEG-expressing neurons in the formation of memory traces in the hippocampus and other brain areas. PMID:26778955

Gestures, vocalizations, and memory in language origins.

PubMed

Aboitiz, Francisco

2012-01-01

THIS ARTICLE DISCUSSES THE POSSIBLE HOMOLOGIES BETWEEN THE HUMAN LANGUAGE NETWORKS AND COMPARABLE AUDITORY PROJECTION SYSTEMS IN THE MACAQUE BRAIN, IN AN ATTEMPT TO RECONCILE TWO EXISTING VIEWS ON LANGUAGE EVOLUTION: one that emphasizes hand control and gestures, and the other that emphasizes auditory-vocal mechanisms. The capacity for language is based on relatively well defined neural substrates whose rudiments have been traced in the non-human primate brain. At its core, this circuit constitutes an auditory-vocal sensorimotor circuit with two main components, a "ventral pathway" connecting anterior auditory regions with anterior ventrolateral prefrontal areas, and a "dorsal pathway" connecting auditory areas with parietal areas and with posterior ventrolateral prefrontal areas via the arcuate fasciculus and the superior longitudinal fasciculus. In humans, the dorsal circuit is especially important for phonological processing and phonological working memory, capacities that are critical for language acquisition and for complex syntax processing. In the macaque, the homolog of the dorsal circuit overlaps with an inferior parietal-premotor network for hand and gesture selection that is under voluntary control, while vocalizations are largely fixed and involuntary. The recruitment of the dorsal component for vocalization behavior in the human lineage, together with a direct cortical control of the subcortical vocalizing system, are proposed to represent a fundamental innovation in human evolution, generating an inflection point that permitted the explosion of vocal language and human communication. In this context, vocal communication and gesturing have a common history in primate communication.

Assessment of multiple DWI offender restrictions

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1989-12-01

This report discusses nine new approaches for reducing recidivism among multiple DWI offenders: dedicated detention facilities, diversion programs, electronic monitoring, ignition interlock systems, intensive probation supervision, publishing offende...

76 FR 42767 - Management Officials Interlocks

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-07-19

... information collection on respondents, including through the use of information technology. We will summarize... background, including any past history in dealing with regulatory authorities, indicates an ability to...

Experimental Investigation on the Joining of Aluminum Alloy Sheets Using Improved Clinching Process.

PubMed

Chen, Chao; Zhao, Shengdun; Han, Xiaolan; Zhao, Xuzhe; Ishida, Tohru

2017-08-01

Aluminum alloy sheets have been widely used to build the thin-walled structures by mechanical clinching technology in recent years. However, there is an exterior protrusion located on the lower sheet and a pit on the upper sheet, which may restrict the application of the clinching technology in visible areas. In the present study, an improved clinched joint used to join aluminum alloy sheets was investigated by experimental method. The improved clinching process used for joining aluminum alloy evolves through four phases: (a) localized deformation; (b) drawing; (c) backward extrusion; and (d) mechanical interlock forming. A flat surface can be produced using the improved clinching process. Shearing strength, tensile strength, material flow, main geometrical parameters, and failure mode of the improved clinched joint were investigated. The sheet material was compressed to flow radially and upward using a punch, which generated a mechanical interlock by producing severe localized plastic deformation. The neck thickness and interlock of the improved clinched joint were increased by increasing the forming force, which also contributed to increase the strength of the clinched joint. The improved clinched joint can get high shearing strength and tensile strength. Three main failure modes were observed in the failure process, which were neck fracture mode, button separation mode, and mixed failure mode. The improved clinched joint has better joining quality to join aluminum alloy sheets on the thin-walled structures.

Experimental Investigation on the Joining of Aluminum Alloy Sheets Using Improved Clinching Process

PubMed Central

Chen, Chao; Zhao, Shengdun; Han, Xiaolan; Zhao, Xuzhe; Ishida, Tohru

2017-01-01

Aluminum alloy sheets have been widely used to build the thin-walled structures by mechanical clinching technology in recent years. However, there is an exterior protrusion located on the lower sheet and a pit on the upper sheet, which may restrict the application of the clinching technology in visible areas. In the present study, an improved clinched joint used to join aluminum alloy sheets was investigated by experimental method. The improved clinching process used for joining aluminum alloy evolves through four phases: (a) localized deformation; (b) drawing; (c) backward extrusion; and (d) mechanical interlock forming. A flat surface can be produced using the improved clinching process. Shearing strength, tensile strength, material flow, main geometrical parameters, and failure mode of the improved clinched joint were investigated. The sheet material was compressed to flow radially and upward using a punch, which generated a mechanical interlock by producing severe localized plastic deformation. The neck thickness and interlock of the improved clinched joint were increased by increasing the forming force, which also contributed to increase the strength of the clinched joint. The improved clinched joint can get high shearing strength and tensile strength. Three main failure modes were observed in the failure process, which were neck fracture mode, button separation mode, and mixed failure mode. The improved clinched joint has better joining quality to join aluminum alloy sheets on the thin-walled structures. PMID:28763027

Insights into the Photoprotective Switch of the Major Light-harvesting Complex II (LHCII)

PubMed Central

Sunku, Kiran; de Groot, Huub. J. M.; Pandit, Anjali

2013-01-01

Light-harvesting antennae of the LHC family form transmembrane three-helix bundles of which two helices are interlocked by conserved arginine-glutamate (Arg-Glu) ion pairs that form ligation sites for chlorophylls. The antenna proteins of photosystem II have an intriguing dual function. In excess light, they can switch their conformation from a light-harvesting into a photoprotective state, in which the excess and harmful excitation energies are safely dissipated as heat. Here we applied magic angle spinning NMR and selective Arg isotope enrichment as a noninvasive method to analyze the Arg structures of the major light-harvesting complex II (LHCII). The conformations of the Arg residues that interlock helix A and B appear to be preserved in the light-harvesting and photoprotective state. Several Arg residues have very downfield-shifted proton NMR responses, indicating that they stabilize the complex by strong hydrogen bonds. For the Arg Cα chemical shifts, differences are observed between LHCII in the active, light-harvesting and in the photoprotective, quenched state. These differences are attributed to a conformational change of the Arg residue in the stromal loop region. We conclude that the interlocked helices of LHCII form a rigid core. Consequently, the LHCII conformational switch does not involve changes in A/B helix tilting but likely involves rearrangements of the loops and helical segments close to the stromal and lumenal ends. PMID:23629658

Synthetic oligorotaxanes exert high forces when folding under mechanical load

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sluysmans, Damien; Hubert, Sandrine; Bruns, Carson J.; Zhu, Zhixue; Stoddart, J. Fraser; Duwez, Anne-Sophie

2018-01-01

Folding is a ubiquitous process that nature uses to control the conformations of its molecular machines, allowing them to perform chemical and mechanical tasks. Over the years, chemists have synthesized foldamers that adopt well-defined and stable folded architectures, mimicking the control expressed by natural systems1,2. Mechanically interlocked molecules, such as rotaxanes and catenanes, are prototypical molecular machines that enable the controlled movement and positioning of their component parts3-5. Recently, combining the exquisite complexity of these two classes of molecules, donor-acceptor oligorotaxane foldamers have been synthesized, in which interactions between the mechanically interlocked component parts dictate the single-molecule assembly into a folded secondary structure6-8. Here we report on the mechanochemical properties of these molecules. We use atomic force microscopy-based single-molecule force spectroscopy to mechanically unfold oligorotaxanes, made of oligomeric dumbbells incorporating 1,5-dioxynaphthalene units encircled by cyclobis(paraquat-p-phenylene) rings. Real-time capture of fluctuations between unfolded and folded states reveals that the molecules exert forces of up to 50 pN against a mechanical load of up to 150 pN, and displays transition times of less than 10 μs. While the folding is at least as fast as that observed in proteins, it is remarkably more robust, thanks to the mechanically interlocked structure. Our results show that synthetic oligorotaxanes have the potential to exceed the performance of natural folding proteins.

Rethinking Mathematics.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Abad, Ernesto A.

1994-01-01

Poses solutions for our failure to show students how well mathematics interlocks with the physical structures of the Universe. Some examples are provided to illustrate the natural integration of mathematics and science. (ZWH)

78 FR 26849 - Model Specifications for Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Devices (BAIIDs)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-05-08

...--Acetone Test 14--Emergency Override Test 15--Radiofrequency Interference/Electromagnetic Interference Test... requirements; temperature extreme testing; radio frequency interference (RFI) or electromagnetic interference...

Silica-forming articles having engineered surfaces to enhance resistance to creep sliding under high-temperature loading

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

Lipkin, Don Mark; Johnson, Curtis Alan; Meschter, Peter Joel

An article includes a silicon-containing region; at least one outer layer overlying a surface of the silicon-containing region; and a constituent layer on the surface of the silicon-containing region and between and contacting the silicon-containing region and the at least one outer layer, the constituent layer being formed by constituents of the silicon-containing region and being susceptible to creep within an operating environment of the article, wherein the silicon-containing region defines a plurality of channels and a plurality of ridges that interlock within the plurality of channels are formed in the silicon-containing region to physically interlock the at least onemore » outer layer with the silicon-containing region through the constituent layer.« less

Covalently Interlocked Cyclohexa-m-phenylenes and Their Assembly: En Route to Supramolecular 3D Carbon Nanostructures.

PubMed

Dumslaff, Bastian; Reuss, Anna N; Wagner, Manfred; Feng, Xinliang; Narita, Akimitsu; Fytas, George; Müllen, Klaus

2017-08-21

In our search to cluster as many phenylene units as possible in a given space, we have proceeded to the three-dimensional world of benzene-based molecules by employing covalently interlocked cyclohexa-m-phenylenes, as present in the unique paddlewheel-shaped polyphenylene 10. A precursor was conceived, in which freely rotating m-chlorophenylene units provide sufficient solubility along with the necessary proximity for the final ring closure to give 10. Monitoring the assembly of solubilized tert-butyl derivatives of 10 into supramolecular carbon nanostructures by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and Brillouin light scattering (BLS) revealed the dimensions of the initially formed aggregates as well as the amorphous character of the solid state. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

A two-layered diffusion model traces the dynamics of information processing in the valuation-and-choice circuit of decision making.

PubMed

Piu, Pietro; Fargnoli, Francesco; Innocenti, Alessandro; Rufa, Alessandra

2014-01-01

A circuit of evaluation and selection of the alternatives is considered a reliable model in neurobiology. The prominent contributions of the literature to this topic are reported. In this study, valuation and choice of a decisional process during Two-Alternative Forced-Choice (TAFC) task are represented as a two-layered network of computational cells, where information accrual and processing progress in nonlinear diffusion dynamics. The evolution of the response-to-stimulus map is thus modeled by two linked diffusive modules (2LDM) representing the neuronal populations involved in the valuation-and-decision circuit of decision making. Diffusion models are naturally appropriate for describing accumulation of evidence over the time. This allows the computation of the response times (RTs) in valuation and choice, under the hypothesis of ex-Wald distribution. A nonlinear transfer function integrates the activities of the two layers. The input-output map based on the infomax principle makes the 2LDM consistent with the reinforcement learning approach. Results from simulated likelihood time series indicate that 2LDM may account for the activity-dependent modulatory component of effective connectivity between the neuronal populations. Rhythmic fluctuations of the estimate gain functions in the delta-beta bands also support the compatibility of 2LDM with the neurobiology of DM.

Computational quantum-classical boundary of noisy commuting quantum circuits

PubMed Central

Fujii, Keisuke; Tamate, Shuhei

2016-01-01

It is often said that the transition from quantum to classical worlds is caused by decoherence originated from an interaction between a system of interest and its surrounding environment. Here we establish a computational quantum-classical boundary from the viewpoint of classical simulatability of a quantum system under decoherence. Specifically, we consider commuting quantum circuits being subject to decoherence. Or equivalently, we can regard them as measurement-based quantum computation on decohered weighted graph states. To show intractability of classical simulation in the quantum side, we utilize the postselection argument and crucially strengthen it by taking noise effect into account. Classical simulatability in the classical side is also shown constructively by using both separable criteria in a projected-entangled-pair-state picture and the Gottesman-Knill theorem for mixed state Clifford circuits. We found that when each qubit is subject to a single-qubit complete-positive-trace-preserving noise, the computational quantum-classical boundary is sharply given by the noise rate required for the distillability of a magic state. The obtained quantum-classical boundary of noisy quantum dynamics reveals a complexity landscape of controlled quantum systems. This paves a way to an experimentally feasible verification of quantum mechanics in a high complexity limit beyond classically simulatable region. PMID:27189039

Computational quantum-classical boundary of noisy commuting quantum circuits.

PubMed

Fujii, Keisuke; Tamate, Shuhei

2016-05-18

It is often said that the transition from quantum to classical worlds is caused by decoherence originated from an interaction between a system of interest and its surrounding environment. Here we establish a computational quantum-classical boundary from the viewpoint of classical simulatability of a quantum system under decoherence. Specifically, we consider commuting quantum circuits being subject to decoherence. Or equivalently, we can regard them as measurement-based quantum computation on decohered weighted graph states. To show intractability of classical simulation in the quantum side, we utilize the postselection argument and crucially strengthen it by taking noise effect into account. Classical simulatability in the classical side is also shown constructively by using both separable criteria in a projected-entangled-pair-state picture and the Gottesman-Knill theorem for mixed state Clifford circuits. We found that when each qubit is subject to a single-qubit complete-positive-trace-preserving noise, the computational quantum-classical boundary is sharply given by the noise rate required for the distillability of a magic state. The obtained quantum-classical boundary of noisy quantum dynamics reveals a complexity landscape of controlled quantum systems. This paves a way to an experimentally feasible verification of quantum mechanics in a high complexity limit beyond classically simulatable region.

Memory formation orchestrates the wiring of adult-born hippocampal neurons into brain circuits.

PubMed

Petsophonsakul, Petnoi; Richetin, Kevin; Andraini, Trinovita; Roybon, Laurent; Rampon, Claire

2017-08-01

During memory formation, structural rearrangements of dendritic spines provide a mean to durably modulate synaptic connectivity within neuronal networks. New neurons generated throughout the adult life in the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus contribute to learning and memory. As these neurons become incorporated into the network, they generate huge numbers of new connections that modify hippocampal circuitry and functioning. However, it is yet unclear as to how the dynamic process of memory formation influences their synaptic integration into neuronal circuits. New memories are established according to a multistep process during which new information is first acquired and then consolidated to form a stable memory trace. Upon recall, memory is transiently destabilized and vulnerable to modification. Using contextual fear conditioning, we found that learning was associated with an acceleration of dendritic spines formation of adult-born neurons, and that spine connectivity becomes strengthened after memory consolidation. Moreover, we observed that afferent connectivity onto adult-born neurons is enhanced after memory retrieval, while extinction training induces a change of spine shapes. Together, these findings reveal that the neuronal activity supporting memory processes strongly influences the structural dendritic integration of adult-born neurons into pre-existing neuronal circuits. Such change of afferent connectivity is likely to impact the overall wiring of hippocampal network, and consequently, to regulate hippocampal function.

Computational quantum-classical boundary of noisy commuting quantum circuits

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fujii, Keisuke; Tamate, Shuhei

2016-05-01

It is often said that the transition from quantum to classical worlds is caused by decoherence originated from an interaction between a system of interest and its surrounding environment. Here we establish a computational quantum-classical boundary from the viewpoint of classical simulatability of a quantum system under decoherence. Specifically, we consider commuting quantum circuits being subject to decoherence. Or equivalently, we can regard them as measurement-based quantum computation on decohered weighted graph states. To show intractability of classical simulation in the quantum side, we utilize the postselection argument and crucially strengthen it by taking noise effect into account. Classical simulatability in the classical side is also shown constructively by using both separable criteria in a projected-entangled-pair-state picture and the Gottesman-Knill theorem for mixed state Clifford circuits. We found that when each qubit is subject to a single-qubit complete-positive-trace-preserving noise, the computational quantum-classical boundary is sharply given by the noise rate required for the distillability of a magic state. The obtained quantum-classical boundary of noisy quantum dynamics reveals a complexity landscape of controlled quantum systems. This paves a way to an experimentally feasible verification of quantum mechanics in a high complexity limit beyond classically simulatable region.

Solar Sintering for Additive Manufacturing on the Moon

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fateri, M.; Meurisse, A.; Sperl, M.

2017-09-01

This study investigates solar sintering of lunar regolith for Additive Manufacturing (AM) purposes on the Moon. In this study, multiple interlocking elements are fabricated for future Lunar habitat developments.

Storing maternal memories: Hypothesizing an interaction of experience and estrogen on sensory cortical plasticity to learn infant cues

PubMed Central

Banerjee, Sunayana B.; Liu, Robert C.

2013-01-01

Much of the literature on maternal behavior has focused on the role of infant experience and hormones in a canonical subcortical circuit for maternal motivation and maternal memory. Although early studies demonstrated that the cerebral cortex also plays a significant role in maternal behaviors, little has been done to explore what that role may be. Recent work though has provided evidence that the cortex, particularly sensory cortices, contains correlates of sensory memories of infant cues, consistent with classical studies of experience-dependent sensory cortical plasticity in non-maternal paradigms. By reviewing the literature from both the maternal behavior and sensory cortical plasticity fields, focusing on the auditory modality, we hypothesize that maternal hormones (predominantly estrogen) may act to prime auditory cortical neurons for a longer-lasting neural trace of infant vocal cues, thereby facilitating recognition and discrimination. This could then more efficiently activate the subcortical circuit to elicit and sustain maternal behavior. PMID:23916405

Design and modeling of an SJ infrared solar cell approaching upper limit of theoretical efficiency

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sahoo, G. S.; Mishra, G. P.

2018-01-01

Recent trends of photovoltaics account for the conversion efficiency limit making them more cost effective. To achieve this we have to leave the golden era of silicon cell and make a path towards III-V compound semiconductor groups to take advantages like bandgap engineering by alloying these compounds. In this work we have used a low bandgap GaSb material and designed a single junction (SJ) cell with a conversion efficiency of 32.98%. SILVACO ATLAS TCAD simulator has been used to simulate the proposed model using both Ray Tracing and Transfer Matrix Method (under 1 sun and 1000 sun of AM1.5G spectrum). A detailed analyses of photogeneration rate, spectral response, potential developed, external quantum efficiency (EQE), internal quantum efficiency (IQE), short-circuit current density (JSC), open-circuit voltage (VOC), fill factor (FF) and conversion efficiency (η) are discussed. The obtained results are compared with previously reported SJ solar cell reports.

A Central Catecholaminergic Circuit Controls Blood Glucose Levels during Stress.

PubMed

Zhao, Zhe; Wang, Liang; Gao, Wenling; Hu, Fei; Zhang, Juen; Ren, Yuqi; Lin, Rui; Feng, Qiru; Cheng, Mingxiu; Ju, Dapeng; Chi, Qingsheng; Wang, Dehua; Song, Sen; Luo, Minmin; Zhan, Cheng

2017-07-05

Stress-induced hyperglycemia is a fundamental adaptive response that mobilizes energy stores in response to threats. Here, our examination of the contributions of the central catecholaminergic (CA) neuronal system to this adaptive response revealed that CA neurons in the ventrolateral medulla (VLM) control stress-induced hyperglycemia. Ablation of VLM CA neurons abolished the hyperglycemic response to both physical and psychological stress, whereas chemogenetic activation of these neurons was sufficient to induce hyperglycemia. We further found that CA neurons in the rostral VLM, but not those in the caudal VLM, cause hyperglycemia via descending projections to the spinal cord. Monosynaptic tracing experiments showed that VLM CA neurons receive direct inputs from multiple stress-responsive brain areas. Optogenetic studies identified an excitatory PVN-VLM circuit that induces hyperglycemia. This study establishes the central role of VLM CA neurons in stress-induced hyperglycemia and substantially expands our understanding of the central mechanism that controls glucose metabolism. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Practical guide for validated memristance measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Du, Nan; Shuai, Yao; Luo, Wenbo; Mayr, Christian; Schüffny, René; Schmidt, Oliver G.; Schmidt, Heidemarie

2013-02-01

Chua [IEEE Trans. Circuit Theory 18, 507-519 (1971), 10.1109/TCT.1971.1083337] predicted rather simple charge-flux curves for active and passive memristors (short for memory resistors) and presented active memristor circuit realizations already in the 1970 s. The first passive memristor has been presented in 2008 [D. B. Strukov, G. S. Snider, and D. R. Williams, Nature (London) 453, 80-83 (2008), 10.1038/nature06932]. Typically, memristors are traced in complicated hysteretic current-voltage curves. Therefore, the true essence of many new memristive devices has not been discovered so far. Here, we give a practical guide on how to use normalized charge-flux curves for the prediction of hysteretic current-voltage characteristics of memristors. In the case of memristive BiFeO3 thin film capacitor structures, the normalized charge-flux curves superimpose for different numbers of measurement points Ns and a different measurement time per measurement point Ts. Such normalized charge-flux curves can be used for the prediction of current-voltage characteristics for input signals with arbitrarily chosen Ns and Ts.

Adsorption of Heavy Metals in Industrial Wastewater by Magnetic Nano-particles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tu, Y.; You, C.

2010-12-01

Industrial wastewater containing heavy metals is of great concern because of their toxic impact to living species and environments. Removal of metal ions from industrial effluent using nano-particles is an area of extensive research. This study collected wastewaters and effluents from 11 industrial companies in tanning, electronic plating, printed circuit board manufacturing, semi-conductor, and metal surface treatment industry and studied in detailed the major and trace element compositions to develop potential fingerprinting technique for pollutant source identification. The results showed that electronic plating and metal surface treatment industry produce high Fe, Mn, Cr, Zn, Ni and Mo wastewater. The tanning industry and the printed circuit board manufacturing industry released wastewater with high Fe and Cr, Cu and Ni, respectively. For semi-conductor industry, significant dissolved In was detected in wastewater. The absorption experiments to remove heavy metals in waters were conducted using Fe3O4 nano-particles. Under optimal conditions, more than 99 % dissolved metals were removed in a few minutes.

Court sees no basis to void policy issued to man with HIV.

PubMed

1997-08-22

The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court found that Protective Life Insurance Company cannot rescind a policy if it failed to detect fraud within a two-year contestability period. The court ruled that the insurer should have exercised reasonable diligence when conducting the medical exam of [name removed]. [Name removed] one year after he tested positive for HIV-antibodies. [Name removed] lied about his health on the insurance application and omitted the names of the doctors who had been treating him for HIV. [Name removed] authorized the Protective Life Insurance Company to conduct HIV testing but the company never did so. A Federal judge granted judgement in favor of the insurer. After [name removed]'s death, litigation continued. In 1996, the 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals stated that the judge's ruling was premature due to ambiguity in the State law, traced back to 1890, and asked the State Supreme Judicial Court to intervene. The case is being returned to the 1st Circuit for a decision.

Cerebellar supervised learning revisited: biophysical modeling and degrees-of-freedom control.

PubMed

Kawato, Mitsuo; Kuroda, Shinya; Schweighofer, Nicolas

2011-10-01

The biophysical models of spike-timing-dependent plasticity have explored dynamics with molecular basis for such computational concepts as coincidence detection, synaptic eligibility trace, and Hebbian learning. They overall support different learning algorithms in different brain areas, especially supervised learning in the cerebellum. Because a single spine is physically very small, chemical reactions at it are essentially stochastic, and thus sensitivity-longevity dilemma exists in the synaptic memory. Here, the cascade of excitable and bistable dynamics is proposed to overcome this difficulty. All kinds of learning algorithms in different brain regions confront with difficult generalization problems. For resolution of this issue, the control of the degrees-of-freedom can be realized by changing synchronicity of neural firing. Especially, for cerebellar supervised learning, the triangle closed-loop circuit consisting of Purkinje cells, the inferior olive nucleus, and the cerebellar nucleus is proposed as a circuit to optimally control synchronous firing and degrees-of-freedom in learning. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Using high-throughput barcode sequencing to efficiently map connectomes

PubMed Central

Peikon, Ian D.; Kebschull, Justus M.; Vagin, Vasily V.; Ravens, Diana I.; Sun, Yu-Chi; Brouzes, Eric; Corrêa, Ivan R.; Bressan, Dario

2017-01-01

Abstract The function of a neural circuit is determined by the details of its synaptic connections. At present, the only available method for determining a neural wiring diagram with single synapse precision—a ‘connectome’—is based on imaging methods that are slow, labor-intensive and expensive. Here, we present SYNseq, a method for converting the connectome into a form that can exploit the speed and low cost of modern high-throughput DNA sequencing. In SYNseq, each neuron is labeled with a unique random nucleotide sequence—an RNA ‘barcode’—which is targeted to the synapse using engineered proteins. Barcodes in pre- and postsynaptic neurons are then associated through protein-protein crosslinking across the synapse, extracted from the tissue, and joined into a form suitable for sequencing. Although our failure to develop an efficient barcode joining scheme precludes the widespread application of this approach, we expect that with further development SYNseq will enable tracing of complex circuits at high speed and low cost. PMID:28449067

Human Pulse Wave Measurement by MEMS Electret Condenser Microphone

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nomura, Shusaku; Hanasaka, Yasushi; Ishiguro, Tadashi; Ogawa, Hiroshi

A micro Electret Condenser Microphone (ECM) fabricated by Micro Electro Mechanical System (MEMS) technology was employed as a novel apparatus for human pulse wave measurement. Since ECM frequency response characteristic, i.e. sensitivity, logically maintains a constant level at lower than the resonance frequency (stiffness control), the slightest pressure difference at around 1.0Hz generated by human pulse wave is expected to detect by MEMS-ECM. As a result of the verification of frequency response of MEMS-ECM, it was found that -20dB/dec of reduction in the sensitivity around 1.0Hz was engendered by a high input-impedance amplifier, i.e. the field effect transistor (FET), mounted near MEMS chip for amplifying tiny ECM signal. Therefore, MEMS-ECM is assumed to be equivalent with a differentiation circuit at around human pulse frequency. Introducing compensation circuit, human pulse wave was successfully obtained. In addition, the radial and ulnar artery tracing, and pulse wave velocity measurement at forearm were demonstrated; as illustrating a possible application of this micro device.

Serotonin at the Nexus of Impulsivity and Cue Reactivity in Cocaine Addiction

PubMed Central

Cunningham, Kathryn A.; Anastasio, Noelle C.

2014-01-01

Cocaine abuse and addiction remain great challenges on the public health agendas in the U.S. and the world. Increasingly sophisticated perspectives on addiction to cocaine and other drugs of abuse have evolved with concerted research efforts over the last 30 years. Relapse remains a particularly powerful clinical problem as, even upon termination of drug use and initiation of abstinence, the recidivism rates can be very high. The cycling course of cocaine intake, abstinence and relapse is tied to a multitude of behavioral and cognitive processes including impulsivity (a predisposition toward rapid unplanned reactions to stimuli without regard to the negative consequences), and cocaine cue reactivity (responsivity to cocaine-associated stimuli) cited as two key phenotypes that contribute to relapse vulnerability even years into recovery. Preclinical studies suggest that serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine; 5-HT) neurotransmission in key neural circuits may contribute to these interlocked phenotypes well as the altered neurobiological states evoked by cocaine that precipitate relapse events. As such, 5-HT is an important target in the quest to to understand the neurobiology of relapse-predictive phenotypes, to successfully treat this complex disorder and improve diagnostic and prognostic capabilities. This review emphasizes the role of 5-HT and its receptor proteins in key addiction phenotypes and the implications of current findings to the future of therapeutics in addiction. PMID:23850573

The mysteries of remote memory.

PubMed

Albo, Zimbul; Gräff, Johannes

2018-03-19

Long-lasting memories form the basis of our identity as individuals and lie central in shaping future behaviours that guide survival. Surprisingly, however, our current knowledge of how such memories are stored in the brain and retrieved, as well as the dynamics of the circuits involved, remains scarce despite seminal technical and experimental breakthroughs in recent years. Traditionally, it has been proposed that, over time, information initially learnt in the hippocampus is stored in distributed cortical networks. This process-the standard theory of memory consolidation-would stabilize the newly encoded information into a lasting memory, become independent of the hippocampus, and remain essentially unmodifiable throughout the lifetime of the individual. In recent years, several pieces of evidence have started to challenge this view and indicate that long-lasting memories might already ab ovo be encoded, and subsequently stored in distributed cortical networks, akin to the multiple trace theory of memory consolidation. In this review, we summarize these recent findings and attempt to identify the biologically plausible mechanisms based on which a contextual memory becomes remote by integrating different levels of analysis: from neural circuits to cell ensembles across synaptic remodelling and epigenetic modifications. From these studies, remote memory formation and maintenance appear to occur through a multi-trace, dynamic and integrative cellular process ranging from the synapse to the nucleus, and represent an exciting field of research primed to change quickly as new experimental evidence emerges.This article is part of a discussion meeting issue 'Of mice and mental health: facilitating dialogue between basic and clinical neuroscientists'. © 2018 The Authors.

Rapid reconstruction of 3D neuronal morphology from light microscopy images with augmented rayburst sampling.

PubMed

Ming, Xing; Li, Anan; Wu, Jingpeng; Yan, Cheng; Ding, Wenxiang; Gong, Hui; Zeng, Shaoqun; Liu, Qian

2013-01-01

Digital reconstruction of three-dimensional (3D) neuronal morphology from light microscopy images provides a powerful technique for analysis of neural circuits. It is time-consuming to manually perform this process. Thus, efficient computer-assisted approaches are preferable. In this paper, we present an innovative method for the tracing and reconstruction of 3D neuronal morphology from light microscopy images. The method uses a prediction and refinement strategy that is based on exploration of local neuron structural features. We extended the rayburst sampling algorithm to a marching fashion, which starts from a single or a few seed points and marches recursively forward along neurite branches to trace and reconstruct the whole tree-like structure. A local radius-related but size-independent hemispherical sampling was used to predict the neurite centerline and detect branches. Iterative rayburst sampling was performed in the orthogonal plane, to refine the centerline location and to estimate the local radius. We implemented the method in a cooperative 3D interactive visualization-assisted system named flNeuronTool. The source code in C++ and the binaries are freely available at http://sourceforge.net/projects/flneurontool/. We validated and evaluated the proposed method using synthetic data and real datasets from the Digital Reconstruction of Axonal and Dendritic Morphology (DIADEM) challenge. Then, flNeuronTool was applied to mouse brain images acquired with the Micro-Optical Sectioning Tomography (MOST) system, to reconstruct single neurons and local neural circuits. The results showed that the system achieves a reasonable balance between fast speed and acceptable accuracy, which is promising for interactive applications in neuronal image analysis.

The mysteries of remote memory

PubMed Central

2018-01-01

Long-lasting memories form the basis of our identity as individuals and lie central in shaping future behaviours that guide survival. Surprisingly, however, our current knowledge of how such memories are stored in the brain and retrieved, as well as the dynamics of the circuits involved, remains scarce despite seminal technical and experimental breakthroughs in recent years. Traditionally, it has been proposed that, over time, information initially learnt in the hippocampus is stored in distributed cortical networks. This process—the standard theory of memory consolidation—would stabilize the newly encoded information into a lasting memory, become independent of the hippocampus, and remain essentially unmodifiable throughout the lifetime of the individual. In recent years, several pieces of evidence have started to challenge this view and indicate that long-lasting memories might already ab ovo be encoded, and subsequently stored in distributed cortical networks, akin to the multiple trace theory of memory consolidation. In this review, we summarize these recent findings and attempt to identify the biologically plausible mechanisms based on which a contextual memory becomes remote by integrating different levels of analysis: from neural circuits to cell ensembles across synaptic remodelling and epigenetic modifications. From these studies, remote memory formation and maintenance appear to occur through a multi-trace, dynamic and integrative cellular process ranging from the synapse to the nucleus, and represent an exciting field of research primed to change quickly as new experimental evidence emerges. This article is part of a discussion meeting issue ‘Of mice and mental health: facilitating dialogue between basic and clinical neuroscientists’. PMID:29352028

Interlocking Nailing Versus Plating in Tibial Shaft Fractures in Adults: A Comparative Study.

PubMed

Mukherjee, Sagnik; Arambam, Mahendra Singh; Waikhom, Sanjib; Santosha; Masatwar, Pranav Vitthal; Maske, Rohan Gautam

2017-04-01

Tibial diaphyseal fractures are the commonest long bone fractures in adults, most commonly managed by intramedullary interlocking nailing. However, several meta-analysis show that locking plate osteosynthesis is equally effective in managing tibial diaphyseal fractures and are associated with less number of complications. To compare the results of fixation of tibial fractures following plating and nailing in terms of union, patient satisfaction and complications. A hospital based non randomized clinical trial was performed from September 2013 to August 2016 where closed or open diaphyseal or metaphyseo- diaphyseal fractures of the tibia (closed or open Gustilo Anderson type 1 through 3B) were included. Simple sequential allocation was used for allotting the patients to two groups, one for interlocking nailing and other for plating. The patients were followed up for clinical, radiographic and functional results. Forty patients with 41 involved limbs completed follow up for one year. The duration of surgery and average blood loss during surgery was 75.45±3.03 minutes and 165.00±5.31 ml respectively in case of nailing and 85.05±2.54 minutes and184.29±5.33 ml respectively in case of plating and their difference was statistically significant. In our study union was achieved in less than 20 weeks in 29 (70.8%) of the patients and 25-30 weeks in nine (22%) cases. The average time of union in our study was 19.55±0.69 weeks in case of interlocking nailing and 20.38±1.39 weeks in case of plating and there was no statistically significant difference between the two. However, there is statistically significant difference in the functional score in between the two groups in terms of Lower Extremity Functional Score (LEFS). Delayed union in one case of nailing and two cases of plating, valgus malunion in one case of nailing and joint stiffness in two cases each of nailing and plating were the major complications observed. There was no difference between the two modalities in terms of fracture union. Complications were lesser but more serious in case of plating. Patient satisfaction was more with plating.

[Treatment of multi-segment fracture of complex femoral shaft with instrument-assisted reduction combined with intramedullary interlocking nail fixation].

PubMed

Fan, Ke-Jie; Chen, Ke; Ma, Wen-Long; Tian, Ke-Wei; Ye, Ye; Chen, Hong-Gan; Tang, Yan-Feng; Cai, Hong-Min

2018-05-25

To investigate the effect of minimally invasive mini-incision and instrumented reduction combined with interlocking intramedullary nailing in the treatment of patients with multi-segment fracture of complex femoral shaft. From January 2013 to January 2016, 32 patients with multiple fractures segments of femoral shaft were treated with instrumentation-assisted reduction combined with interlocking intramedullary nailing, including 22 males and 10 females with an average age of 45 years old ranging 17 to 68 years old. The time from injured to operation was 5 to 10 days with an average of 7 days. After admission, routine tibial tubercle or supracondylar bone traction was performed. The patient's general condition was evaluated, the operation time and intraoperative blood loss were recorded. According to Thorsen femoral fracture morphology evaluation criteria and Hohl knee function evaluation of postoperative efficacy, postoperative fracture healing, complications and postoperative recovery of limb function were observed. All patients were followed up for 6 to 24 months with an average of 12 months. The operative time ranged from 48 to 76 minutes with an average of 67 min. The intraoperative blood loss was 150 to 400 ml with an average of 220 ml. The surgical incisions all achieved grade A healing. The fractures reached the clinical standard of healing. The fracture healing time ranged from 4.2 to 10.8 months with an average of 5.7 months. There were no nonunion, incision infection and internal fixation fracture, failure and other complications. According to Thorsen femoral fracture morphology evaluation criteria, the result was excellent in 28 cases, good in 3 cases, fair in 1 case. According to Hohl knee function evaluation criteria, the result was excellent in 30 cases, good in 2 cases. Instrument-assisted reduction combined with interlocking intramedullary nail fixation is a safe and effective method for the treatment of complex femoral shaft fractures. It has advantages of small trauma, fixed fixation, quick recovery, early postoperative functional exercise. Copyright© 2018 by the China Journal of Orthopaedics and Traumatology Press.

Pervious Pavement System Evaluation-Poster

EPA Science Inventory

Pervious pavement is a low impact development stormwater control. The Environmental Protection Agency's Urban Watershed Management Branch is evaluating interlocking concrete pavingstone pervious pavement systems. The pavingstones themselves are impermeable, but the spaces between...

Crashworthiness design modifications for locomotive and cab car anticlimbing systems

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2003-02-01

This study addressed the feasibility of incorporating complete anticlimbing systems into both passenger and freight locomotives. Complete systems include pushback couplers, vertically interlocking anticlimber elements, and zones specifically designed...

Users' guide to new approaches and sanctions for multiple DWI offenders

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1989-12-01

This guide describes nine new approaches for reducing recidivism among multiple DWI offenders: dedicated detention facilities, diversion programs, electronic monitoring, ignition interlock systems, intensive probation supervision, publishing offender...

12 CFR 390.403 - Interlocking relationships permitted by statute.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

.... 611 et seq., respectively) (Edge Corporations and Agreement Corporations); (c) A credit union being... service cannot be structured or limited so as to preclude an anticompetitive effect in financial services...

12 CFR 196.4 - Interlocking relationships permitted by statute.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

.... 611 et seq., respectively) (Edge Corporations and Agreement Corporations); (c) A credit union being... service cannot be structured or limited so as to preclude an anticompetitive effect in financial services...

12 CFR 26.4 - Interlocking relationships permitted by statute.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

.... 611 et seq., respectively) (Edge Corporations and Agreement Corporations); (c) A credit union being... service cannot be structured or limited so as to preclude an anticompetitive effect in financial services...

12 CFR 196.4 - Interlocking relationships permitted by statute.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

.... 611 et seq., respectively) (Edge Corporations and Agreement Corporations); (c) A credit union being... service cannot be structured or limited so as to preclude an anticompetitive effect in financial services...

12 CFR 26.4 - Interlocking relationships permitted by statute.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

.... 611 et seq., respectively) (Edge Corporations and Agreement Corporations); (c) A credit union being... service cannot be structured or limited so as to preclude an anticompetitive effect in financial services...

12 CFR 26.4 - Interlocking relationships permitted by statute.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

.... 611 et seq., respectively) (Edge Corporations and Agreement Corporations); (c) A credit union being... service cannot be structured or limited so as to preclude an anticompetitive effect in financial services...

12 CFR 390.403 - Interlocking relationships permitted by statute.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

.... 611 et seq., respectively) (Edge Corporations and Agreement Corporations); (c) A credit union being... service cannot be structured or limited so as to preclude an anticompetitive effect in financial services...

12 CFR 196.4 - Interlocking relationships permitted by statute.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

.... 611 et seq., respectively) (Edge Corporations and Agreement Corporations); (c) A credit union being... service cannot be structured or limited so as to preclude an anticompetitive effect in financial services...

12 CFR 390.403 - Interlocking relationships permitted by statute.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

.... 611 et seq., respectively) (Edge Corporations and Agreement Corporations); (c) A credit union being... service cannot be structured or limited so as to preclude an anticompetitive effect in financial services...

12 CFR 26.4 - Interlocking relationships permitted by statute.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

.... 611 et seq., respectively) (Edge Corporations and Agreement Corporations); (c) A credit union being... service cannot be structured or limited so as to preclude an anticompetitive effect in financial services...

Composite flexible blanket insulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kourtides, Demetrius A. (Inventor); Lowe, David M. (Inventor)

1994-01-01

An improved composite flexible blanket insulation is presented comprising top silicon carbide having an interlock design, wherein the reflective shield is composed of single or double aluminized polyimide and wherein the polyimide film has a honeycomb pattern.

41 CFR 50-204.3 - Material handling and storage.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

.... Bags, containers, bundles, etc. stored in tiers shall be stacked, blocked, interlocked and limited in... provided on spur railroad tracks where a rolling car could contact other cars being worked, enter a...

41 CFR 50-204.3 - Material handling and storage.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

.... Bags, containers, bundles, etc. stored in tiers shall be stacked, blocked, interlocked and limited in... provided on spur railroad tracks where a rolling car could contact other cars being worked, enter a...

41 CFR 50-204.3 - Material handling and storage.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

.... Bags, containers, bundles, etc. stored in tiers shall be stacked, blocked, interlocked and limited in... provided on spur railroad tracks where a rolling car could contact other cars being worked, enter a...

41 CFR 50-204.3 - Material handling and storage.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

.... Bags, containers, bundles, etc. stored in tiers shall be stacked, blocked, interlocked and limited in... provided on spur railroad tracks where a rolling car could contact other cars being worked, enter a...

41 CFR 50-204.3 - Material handling and storage.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

.... Bags, containers, bundles, etc. stored in tiers shall be stacked, blocked, interlocked and limited in... provided on spur railroad tracks where a rolling car could contact other cars being worked, enter a...