Surface modification of SU8 photoresist for shrinkage improvement in a monolithic MEMS microstructure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chung, C. K.; Hong, Y. Z.

2007-02-01

The effect of O2 plasma treatment on the surface property of exposed and unexposed SU8 photoresist has been investigated for the fabrication of a monolithic MEMS microstructure. It can solve the non-uniformity problem of second resist coating on the SU8 with high intrinsic shrinkage after exposure and post-exposure baking (PEB) in the fabrication of the stacked polymer-metal or polymer-polymer structure, which was used in the application of microfluid, bio and chemistry. The thickness difference of untreated SU8 before PEB between the exposed and unexposed SU8 was about 0.3% while that after PEB increased to about 6%. It could result in large non-uniformity of about 18 µm thickness difference for the following second resist coating on the hydrophobic surface without plasma treatment. The surface property of SU8 in terms of the contact angle and surface energy can be adjusted by O2 plasma treatment for enhancing the coating uniformity of the following resist. The measured contact angles of the exposed and unexposed SU8 decrease with O2 plasma time, corresponding to the increased surface energy determined by the Lifshitz-van der Waals/Lewis acid-base approach. It displayed that the similar hydrophilic surface property can minimize the thickness difference of second resist coating on the first shrunken SU8. A monolithic nozzle plate with a physical resolution of 600 dpi in a single column was demonstrated for an inkjet application based on the improved uniformity.

A multi-technique analysis of deuterium trapping and near-surface precipitate growth in plasma-exposed tungsten

DOE PAGES

Kolasinski, Robert; Shimada, Masashi; Oya, Yasuhisa; ...

2015-08-17

We examine how deuterium becomes trapped in plasma-exposed tungsten and forms near-surface platelet-shaped precipitates. How these bubbles nucleate and grow, as well as the amount of deuterium trapped within, is crucial for interpreting the experimental database. Here, we use a combined experimental/theoretical approach to provide further insight into the underlying physics. With the Tritium Plasma Experiment, we exposed a series of ITER-gradetungsten samples to high flux D plasmas (up to 1.5 × 10 22 m -2 s -1) at temperatures ranging between 103 and 554 °C. Retention of deuterium trapped in the bulk, assessed through thermal desorption spectrometry, reached amore » maximum at 230 °C and diminished rapidly thereafter for T > 300 °C. Post-mortem examination of the surfaces revealed non-uniform growth of bubbles ranging in diameter between 1 and 10 μm over the surface with a clear correlation with grain boundaries. Electron back-scattering diffraction maps over a large area of the surface confirmed this dependence; grains containing bubbles were aligned with a preferred slip vector along the <111> directions. Focused ion beam profiles suggest that these bubbles nucleated as platelets at depths of 200 nm–1 μm beneath the surface and grew as a result of expansion of sub-surface cracks. Furthermore, to estimate the amount of deuterium trapped in these defects relative to other sites within the material, we applied a continuum-scale treatment of hydrogen isotope precipitation. Additionally, we propose a straightforward model of near-surface platelet expansion that reproduces bubble sizes consistent with our measurements. For the tungsten microstructure considered here, we find that bubbles would only weakly affect migration of D into the material, perhaps explaining why deep trapping was observed in prior studies with plasma-exposed neutron-irradiated specimens. We foresee no insurmountable issues that would prevent the theoretical framework developed here from being extended to a broader range of systems where precipitation of insoluble gases in ion beam or plasma-exposed metals is of interest.« less

Atomic force microscope studies of fullerene films - Highly stable C60 fcc (311) free surfaces

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Snyder, Eric J.; Tong, William M.; Williams, R. S.; Anz, Samir J.; Anderson, Mark S.

1991-01-01

Atomic force microscopy and X-ray diffractometry were used to study 1500 A-thick films of pure C60 grown by sublimation in ultrahigh vacuum onto a CaF2 (111) substrte. Topographs of the films did not reveal the expected close-packed structures, but they showed instead large regions that correspond to a face-centered cubic (311) surface and distortions of this surface. The open (311) structure may have a relatively low free energy because the low packing density contributes to a high entropy of the exposed surface.

Identification of Surface-Exposed Protein Radicals and A Substrate Oxidation Site in A-Class Dye-Decolorizing Peroxidase from Thermomonospora curvata

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

Shrestha, Ruben; Chen, Xuejie; Ramyar, Kasra X.

Dye-decolorizing peroxidases (DyPs) are a family of heme peroxidases in which a catalytic distal aspartate is involved in H 2O 2 activation to catalyze oxidations under acidic conditions. They have received much attention due to their potential applications in lignin compound degradation and biofuel production from biomass. However, the mode of oxidation in bacterial DyPs remains unknown. We have recently reported that the bacterial TcDyP from Thermomonospora curvata is among the most active DyPs and shows activity toward phenolic lignin model compounds. On the basis of the X-ray crystal structure solved at 1.75 Å, sigmoidal steady-state kinetics with Reactive Bluemore » 19 (RB19), and formation of compound II like product in the absence of reducing substrates observed with stopped-flow spectroscopy and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), we hypothesized that the TcDyP catalyzes oxidation of large-size substrates via multiple surface-exposed protein radicals. Among 7 tryptophans and 3 tyrosines in TcDyP consisting of 376 residues for the matured protein, W263, W376, and Y332 were identified as surface-exposed protein radicals. Only the W263 was also characterized as one of the surface-exposed oxidation sites. SDS-PAGE and size-exclusion chromatography demonstrated that W376 represents an off-pathway destination for electron transfer, resulting in the cross-linking of proteins in the absence of substrates. Mutation of W376 improved compound I stability and overall catalytic efficiency toward RB19. While Y332 is highly conserved across all four classes of DyPs, its catalytic function in A-class TcDyP is minimal, possibly due to its extremely small solvent-accessible areas. Identification of surface-exposed protein radicals and substrate oxidation sites is important for understanding the DyP mechanism and modulating its catalytic functions for improved activity on phenolic lignin.« less

Modulating protein behaviors on responsive surface by external electric fields: A molecular dynamics study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xie, Yun; Pan, Yufang; Zhang, Rong; Liang, Ying; Li, Zhanchao

2015-01-01

Molecular dynamics simulations were employed to investigate the modulation of protein behaviors on the electrically responsive zwitterionic phosphorylcholine self-assembled monolayers (PC-SAMs). Results show that PC-SAMs could sensitively respond to the applied electric fields and exhibit three states with different charge distributions, namely both the negatively charged phosphate groups and the positively charged choline groups are exposed to the solution in the absence of electric fields (state 1), phosphate groups exposed in the presence of positive electric fields (state 2), and choline groups exposed in the presence of negative electric fields (state 3). Under state 1, the adsorption of Cyt c on the PC-SAM is reversible and the orientations of Cyt c are randomly distributed. Under state 2, the adsorption of Cyt c is enhanced due to the electrostatic attractions between the exposed phosphate groups and the positively charged protein; when adsorbed on the PC-SAMs, Cyt c tends to adopt the orientation with the heme plane perpendicular to the surface plane, and the percentage of this orientation increases as the field strength rises up. Under state 3, the adsorption of Cyt c is retarded because of the electrostatic repulsions between the exposed choline groups and the protein; however, if the gaps between PC chains are large enough, Cyt c could insert into the PC-SAM and access the phosphate groups after overcoming a slight energy barrier. Under three states, the basic backbone structures of Cyt c are well kept within the simulation time since the conformation of Cyt c is mainly affected by the surface-generated electric fields, whose strengths are modulated by the external electric fields and are not strong enough to deform protein. The results indicate the possibility of regulating protein behaviors, including promoting or retarding protein adsorption and regulating protein orientations, on responsive surfaces by applying electric fields on the surfaces without worrying protein deformation, which may be helpful in the applications of protein separation and controlled drug delivery.

Surface Plasmon Scattering in Exposed Core Optical Fiber for Enhanced Resolution Refractive Index Sensing.

PubMed

Klantsataya, Elizaveta; François, Alexandre; Ebendorff-Heidepriem, Heike; Hoffmann, Peter; Monro, Tanya M

2015-09-29

Refractometric sensors based on optical excitation of surface plasmons on the side of an optical fiber is an established sensing architecture that has enabled laboratory demonstrations of cost effective portable devices for biological and chemical applications. Here we report a Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) configuration realized in an Exposed Core Microstructured Optical Fiber (ECF) capable of optimizing both sensitivity and resolution. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of fabrication of a rough metal coating suitable for spectral interrogation of scattered plasmonic wave using chemical electroless plating technique on a 10 μm diameter exposed core of the ECF. Performance of the sensor in terms of its refractive index sensitivity and full width at half maximum (FWHM) of SPR response is compared to that achieved with an unstructured bare core fiber with 140 μm core diameter. The experimental improvement in FWHM, and therefore the detection limit, is found to be a factor of two (75 nm for ECF in comparison to 150 nm for the large core fiber). Refractive index sensitivity of 1800 nm/RIU was achieved for both fibers in the sensing range of aqueous environment (1.33-1.37) suitable for biosensing applications.

Formation of porous surface layers in reaction bonded silicon nitride during processing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shaw, N. J.; Glasgow, T. K.

1979-01-01

An effort was undertaken to determine if the formation of the generally observed layer of large porosity adjacent to the as-nitride surfaces of reaction bonded silicon nitrides could be prevented during processing. Isostatically pressed test bars were prepared from wet vibratory milled Si powder. Sintering and nitriding were each done under three different conditions:(1) bars directly exposed to the furnance atmosphere; (2) bars packed in Si powder; (3) bars packed in Si3N4 powder. Packing the bars in either Si of Si3N4 powder during sintering retarded formation of the layer of large porosity. Only packing the bars in Si prevented formation of the layer during nitridation. The strongest bars (316 MPa) were those sintered in Si and nitrided in Si3N4 despite their having a layer of large surface porosity; failure initiated at very large pores and inclusions. The alpha/beta ratio was found to be directly proportional to the oxygen content; a possible explanation for this relationship is discussed.

Intrinsic Hydrophobicity of Rammed Earth

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Holub, M.; Stone, C.; Balintova, M.; Grul, R.

2015-11-01

Rammed earth is well known for its vapour diffusion properties, its ability to regulate humidity within the built environment. Rammed earth is also an aesthetically iconic material such as marble or granite and therefore is preferably left exposed. However exposed rammed earth is often coated with silane/siloxane water repellents or the structure is modified architecturally (large roof overhangs) to accommodate for the hydrophilic nature of the material. This paper sets out to find out optimal hydrophobicity for rammed earth based on natural composite fibres and surface coating without adversely affecting the vapour diffusivity of the material. The material is not required to be waterproof, but should resist at least driving rain. In order to evaluate different approaches to increase hydrophobicity of rammed earth surface, peat fibres and four types of repellents were used.

Patterning Surfaces on Azo-Based Multilayer Films via Surface Wrinkling Combined with Visible Light Irradiation.

PubMed

Zong, Chuanyong; Zhao, Yan; Ji, Haipeng; Xie, Jixun; Han, Xue; Wang, Juanjuan; Cao, Yanping; Lu, Conghua; Li, Hongfei; Jiang, Shichun

2016-08-01

Here, a simple combined strategy of surface wrinkling with visible light irradiation to fabricate well tunable hierarchical surface patterns on azo-containing multilayer films is reported. The key to tailor surface patterns is to introduce a photosensitive poly(disperse orange 3) intermediate layer into the film/substrate wrinkling system, in which the modulus decrease is induced by the reversible photoisomerization. The existence of a photoinert top layer prevents the photoisomerization-induced stress release in the intermediate layer to some extent. Consequently, the as-formed wrinkling patterns can be modulated over a large area by light irradiation. Interestingly, in the case of selective exposure, the wrinkle wavelength in the exposed region decreases, while the wrinkles in the unexposed region are evolved into highly oriented wrinkles with the orientation perpendicular to the exposed/unexposed boundary. Compared with traditional single layer-based film/substrate systems, the multilayer system consisting of the photosensitive intermediate layer offers unprecedented advantages in the patterning controllability/universality. As demonstrated here, this simple and versatile strategy can be conveniently extended to functional multilayer systems for the creation of prescribed hierarchical surface patterns with optically tailored microstructures. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Surface plasmon microscopy with low-cost metallic nanostructures for biosensing I

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lindquist, Nathan; Oh, Sang-Hyun; Otto, Lauren

2012-02-01

The field of plasmonics aims to manipulate light over dimensions smaller than the optical wavelength by exploiting surface plasmon resonances in metallic films. Typically, surface plasmons are excited by illuminating metallic nanostructures. For meaningful research in this exciting area, the fabrication of high-quality nanostructures is critical, and in an undergraduate setting, low-cost methods are desirable. Careful optical characterization of the metallic nanostructures is also required. Here, we present the use of novel, inexpensive nanofabrication techniques and the development of a customized surface plasmon microscopy setup for interdisciplinary undergraduate experiments in biosensing, surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, and surface plasmon imaging. A Bethel undergraduate student performs the nanofabrication in collaboration with the University of Minnesota. The rewards of mentoring undergraduate students in cooperation with a large research university are numerous, exposing them to a wide variety of opportunities. This research also interacts with upper-level, open-ended laboratory projects, summer research, a semester-long senior research experience, and will enable a large range of experiments into the future.

Architectural evidence of dune collapse in the Navajo Sandstone, Zion National Park, Utah

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ford, Colby; Bryant, Gerald; Nick, Kevin E.

2016-10-01

The Canyon Overlook Trail of Zion National Park follows an outcrop of Navajo Sandstone, which displays a uniquely well-exposed assemblage of features associated with failure of the lee face of a large eolian dune, and run-out over an expanse of interdune sediments downwind of that bedform. Exposed features include dramatic folds in the interdune succession and a stacked series of thrust sheets incorporating both interdune and overlying dune deposits. Thrust surfaces display consistent strikes, parallel to those of undeformed foresets, and incorporate zones of brittle failure and fluid deformation, including folds overturned in the direction of foreset dip. These features correspond to predictions made by a previous researcher's model of dune collapse, formulated from less fortuitously exposed architectures in the Navajo Sandstone. Unlike the previous model, however, this site preserves distinct indications that the bulk of deformed material accumulated above the level of the contemporary interdune surface, in an aggradational succession. Paleotopographic reconstruction, based on preserved facies relationships at this site, indicates the presence of a large dune, partially encroached upon a well-developed wet interdune succession, made up of two half-meter carbonate mud layers, separated by a meter of medium-grained sand. Trapping of pore water pressure between these mud layers during liquefaction reduced shear strength in this interval, facilitating the collapse of the lee face of the upwind dune into the interdune area, and transmitted resultant shear forces to distal portions of the interdune expanse, in the shallow subsurface. Shear failure developed along bedding planes in the horizontally laminated carbonate muds, which provided both lubrication of the shear surfaces and structural support for the preservation of coherent thrust sheets during production of an imbricated succession of shear zones in the toe portion of the slump. Individual shear surfaces exposed in this outcrop extend for up to 50 m along strike and dip north up to 55°. Upturned mud layers in the toe of the slump resisted deflation, promoting preservation of an irregular interdune topography, over which the reorganized dune ultimately advanced.

Plant temperatures and heat flux in a Sonoran Desert ecosystem.

PubMed

Gibbs, Joan G; Patten, D T

1970-09-01

In the extreme desert environment the potential energy load is high, consequently high temperatures might be a limiting factor for plant survival. Field measurements of plant temperatures in a Sonoran Desert ecosystem were made using fine thermocouples. Temperatures of six desert species were measured: Opuntia engelmannii, Opuntia bigelovii, Opuntia acanthocarpa, Echinocereus engelmannii, Larrea tridentata and Franseria deltoidea. Daily temperature profiles were used to compare the different responses of cacti and shrubs to the desert heat load and also to compare spring and summer responses. Leaf temperature of shrubs was at or near air temperature during both the mild, spring season and the hotter dry season. The cacti, on the other hand, absorbed and stored heat, thus temperatures were often above air temperature. The energy absorbed is determined largely by plant orientation and surface area exposed to the sun. Actual energy absorbed by the plants was estimated from energy diagrams.The flat stem pads of Opuntia engelmannii plants are oriented to receive maximum sunlight without long periods of continuous heating. Opuntia bigelovii spines reflect and absorb much of the environmental energy load, thereby protecting the thick, succulent stems from overheating. The smaller stems of Opuntia acanthocarpa dissipate heat more effectively by their large surface area exposed to convective air currents. Leaves on desert shrubs remain nearer to air temperature than do succulent stems of cacti, because their very large surface to volume ratio allows them to dissipate much heat by convection.

Limits to Ice on Asteroids (24) Themis and (65) Cybele

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jewitt, David; Guilbert-Lepoutre, Aurelie

2012-01-01

We present optical spectra of (24) Themis and (65) Cybele, two large main-belt asteroids on which exposed water ice has recently been reported. No emission lines, expected from resonance fluorescence in gas sublimated from the ice, were detected. Derived limits to the production rates of water are lsim400 kg s-1 (5σ) for each object, assuming a cometary H2O/CN ratio. We rule out models in which a large fraction of the surface is occupied by high-albedo ("fresh") water ice because the measured albedos of Themis and Cybele are low (~0.05-0.07). We also rule out models in which a large fraction of the surface is occupied by low-albedo ("dirty") water ice because dirty ice would be warm and would sublimate strongly enough for gaseous products to have been detected. If ice exists on these bodies it must be relatively clean (albedo gsim0.3) and confined to a fraction of the Earth-facing surface lsim10%. By analogy with impacted asteroid (596) Scheila, we propose an impact excavation scenario, in which 10 m scale projectiles have exposed buried ice. If the ice is even more reflective (albedo gsim0.6), then the timescale for sublimation of an optically thick layer can rival the ~103 yr interval between impacts with bodies this size. In this sense, exposure by impact may be a quasi steady-state feature of ice-containing asteroids at 3 AU.

Gateless AlGaN/GaN HEMT response to block co-polymers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kang, B. S.; Louche, G.; Duran, R. S.; Gnanou, Y.; Pearton, S. J.; Ren, F.

2004-05-01

Gateless AlGaN/GaN high electron mobility transistor (HEMT) structures exhibit large changes in source-drain current upon exposing the gate region to various block co-polymer solutions. The polar nature of some of these polymer chains lead to a change of surface charges in gate region on the HEMT, producing a change in surface potential at the semiconductor/liquid interface. The nitride sensors appear to be promising for a wide range of chemical gas, combustion gas, liquid and strain sensing.

Enzymatic treatment of duck hepatitis B virus: Topology of the surface proteins for virions and noninfectious subviral particles

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

Franke, Claudia; Matschl, Urte; Bruns, Michael

The large surface antigen L of duck hepatitis B virus exhibits a mixed topology with the preS domains of the protein alternatively exposed to the particles' interior or exterior. After separating virions from subviral particles (SVPs), we compared their L topologies and showed that both particle types exhibit the same amount of L with the following differences: 1-preS of intact virions was enzymatically digested with chymotrypsin, whereas in SVPs only half of preS was accessible, 2-phosphorylation of L at S118 was completely removed by phosphatase treatment only in virions, 3-iodine-125 labeling disclosed a higher ratio of exposed preS to Smore » domains in virions compared to SVPs. These data point towards different surface architectures of virions and SVPs. Because the preS domain acts in binding to a cellular receptor of hepatocytes, our findings implicate the exclusion of SVPs as competitors for the receptor binding and entry of virions.« less

Species–specific contributions to moderate resolution vegetation indices derived from sub-decimeter aerial photography – Prospects for phenological monitoring

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

High spatial heterogeneity in ground cover, large amounts of exposed bare soil, and modest cover from shrubs and grasses in arid and semi-arid ecosystems challenge the integration of field observations of phenology and remotely sensed data to monitor changes in land surface phenology. This research ...

High-Resolution Microbial Community Succession of Microbially Induced Concrete Corrosion in Working Sanitary Manholes

PubMed Central

Ling, Alison L.; Robertson, Charles E.; Harris, J. Kirk; Frank, Daniel N.; Kotter, Cassandra V.; Stevens, Mark J.; Pace, Norman R.; Hernandez, Mark T.

2015-01-01

Microbially-induced concrete corrosion in headspaces threatens wastewater infrastructure worldwide. Models for predicting corrosion rates in sewer pipe networks rely largely on information from culture-based investigations. In this study, the succession of microbes associated with corroding concrete was characterized over a one-year monitoring campaign using rRNA sequence-based phylogenetic methods. New concrete specimens were exposed in two highly corrosive manholes (high concentrations of hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide gas) on the Colorado Front Range for up to a year. Community succession on corroding surfaces was assessed using Illumina MiSeq sequencing of 16S bacterial rRNA amplicons and Sanger sequencing of 16S universal rRNA clones. Microbial communities associated with corrosion fronts presented distinct succession patterns which converged to markedly low α-diversity levels (< 10 taxa) in conjunction with decreasing pH. The microbial community succession pattern observed in this study agreed with culture-based models that implicate acidophilic sulfur-oxidizer Acidithiobacillus spp. in advanced communities, with two notable exceptions. Early communities exposed to alkaline surface pH presented relatively high α-diversity, including heterotrophic, nitrogen-fixing, and sulfur-oxidizing genera, and one community exposed to neutral surface pH presented a diverse transition community comprised of less than 20% sulfur-oxidizers. PMID:25748024

High-resolution microbial community succession of microbially induced concrete corrosion in working sanitary manholes.

PubMed

Ling, Alison L; Robertson, Charles E; Harris, J Kirk; Frank, Daniel N; Kotter, Cassandra V; Stevens, Mark J; Pace, Norman R; Hernandez, Mark T

2015-01-01

Microbially-induced concrete corrosion in headspaces threatens wastewater infrastructure worldwide. Models for predicting corrosion rates in sewer pipe networks rely largely on information from culture-based investigations. In this study, the succession of microbes associated with corroding concrete was characterized over a one-year monitoring campaign using rRNA sequence-based phylogenetic methods. New concrete specimens were exposed in two highly corrosive manholes (high concentrations of hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide gas) on the Colorado Front Range for up to a year. Community succession on corroding surfaces was assessed using Illumina MiSeq sequencing of 16S bacterial rRNA amplicons and Sanger sequencing of 16S universal rRNA clones. Microbial communities associated with corrosion fronts presented distinct succession patterns which converged to markedly low α-diversity levels (< 10 taxa) in conjunction with decreasing pH. The microbial community succession pattern observed in this study agreed with culture-based models that implicate acidophilic sulfur-oxidizer Acidithiobacillus spp. in advanced communities, with two notable exceptions. Early communities exposed to alkaline surface pH presented relatively high α-diversity, including heterotrophic, nitrogen-fixing, and sulfur-oxidizing genera, and one community exposed to neutral surface pH presented a diverse transition community comprised of less than 20% sulfur-oxidizers.

Functional and morphological studies of photodamaged skin on the hands of middle-aged Japanese golfers.

PubMed

Kikuchi-Numagami, K; Suetake, T; Yanai, M; Takahashi, M; Tanaka, M; Tagami, H

2000-06-01

The skin of golfers' hands provides a suitable model to study the effect of chronic sun exposure, because one of their hands is exposed to the outer environment, especially sunlight, while the other one is always protected by a glove during play. Our purpose was to find out the influence of photodamage on the properties of the skin surface of middle-aged Japanese by using non-invasive methods. We measured hydration state, and water barrier function of the stratum corneum (SC) and the color of the skin of the dorsum of the hands. In a separate study, we evaluated the skin surface contour by using replicas taken from the skin in a slightly stretched or relaxed position. We found a significant decrease in hydration of the skin surface of the exposed skin as compared to that of the protected skin, whereas no such difference was found with transepidermal water loss, a parameter for water barrier function of the SC. Luminance of skin color was also reduced in the sun-exposed skin. Replica analysis revealed that large wrinkles developing in a relaxed position were more prominent on the exposed than on the protected skin, while fine furrows noted in a slightly stretched position were shallower on the former than the latter. The data obtained indicate that the chronically exposed skin of golfers' hands shows morphological and functional changes resulting from long time exposure to the outer environment especially sunlight. Furthermore, bioengineering non-invasive methods are found to be useful to detect early photodamage of the skin in a more quantitative fashion which is rather difficult to demonstrate clinically.

System and method for crystalline sheet growth using a cold block and gas jet

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

Kellerman, Peter L.; Mackintosh, Brian; Carlson, Frederick M.

A crystallizer for growing a crystalline sheet from a melt may include a cold block having a cold block surface that faces an exposed surface of the melt, the cold block configured to generate a cold block temperature at the cold block surface that is lower than a melt temperature of the melt at the exposed surface. The system may also include a nozzle disposed within the cold block and configured to deliver a gas jet to the exposed surface, wherein the gas jet and the cold block are interoperative to generate a process zone that removes heat from themore » exposed surface at a first heat removal rate that is greater than a second heat removal rate from the exposed surface in outer regions outside of the process zone.« less

Specific antibody responses against membrane proteins of erythrocytes infected by Plasmodium falciparum of individuals briefly exposed to malaria

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Background Plasmodium falciparum infections could lead to severe malaria, principally in non-immune individuals as children and travellers from countries exempted of malaria. Severe malaria is often associated with the sequestration of P. falciparum-infected erythrocytes in deep micro-vascular beds via interactions between host endothelial receptors and parasite ligands expressed on the surface of the infected erythrocyte. Although, serological responses from individuals living in endemic areas against proteins expressed at surface of the infected erythrocyte have been largely studied, seldom data are available about the specific targets of antibody response from travellers. Methods In order to characterize antigens recognized by traveller sera, a comparison of IgG immune response against membrane protein extracts from uninfected and P. falciparum-infected red blood cells (iRBC), using immunoblots, was performed between non exposed individuals (n = 31) and briefly exposed individuals (BEI) (n = 38) to malaria transmission. Results Immune profile analysis indicated that eight protein bands from iRBC were significantly detected more frequently in the BEI group. Some of these antigenic proteins were identified by an original immuno-proteomic approach. Conclusion Collectively, these data may be useful to characterize the singular serological immune response against a primary malaria infection in individuals briefly exposed to transmission. PMID:20932351

Thermoelectric properties of CVD grown large area graphene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sherehiy, Andriy; Jayasinghe, Ruwantha; Stallard, Robert; Sumanasekera, Gamini; Sidorov, Anton; Benjamin, Daniel; Jiang, Zhigang; Yu, Qingkai; Wu, Wei; Bao, Jiming; Liu, Zhihong; Pei, Steven; Chen, Yong

2010-03-01

The thermoelectric power (TEP) of CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) grown large area graphene transferred onto a Si/SiO2 substrate was measured by simply attaching two miniature thermocouples and a resistive heater. Availability of such large area graphene facilitates straight forward TEP measurement without the use of any microfabrication processes. All investigated graphene samples showed a positive TEP ˜ + 30 μV/K in ambient conditions and saturated at a negative value as low as ˜ -75 μV/K after vacuum-annealing at 500 K in a vacuum of ˜10-7 Torr. The observed p-type behavior under ambient conditions is attributed to the oxygen doping, while the n-type behavior under degassed conditions is due to electron doping from SiO2 surface states. It was observed that the sign of the TEP switched from negative to positive for the degassed graphene when exposed to acceptor gases. Conversely, the TEP of vacuum-annealed graphene exposed to the donor gases became even more negative than the TEP of vacuum-annealed sample.

Thermoelectic properties of CVD grown large area graphene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sherehiy, Andriy

This thesis is based on experimental work on thermoelectric properties of CVD grown large area graphene. The thermoelectric power (TEP) of CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) grown large area graphene transferred onto a Si/SiO 2_substrate was measured by simply attaching two miniature thermocouples and a resistive heater. Availability of such large area graphene facilitates straight forward TEP measurement without the use of any microfabrication processes. All investigated graphene samples showed a positive TEP S ≈ 20 mVK in ambient conditions and saturated at a negative value as low as S ≈ -50 mVK after vacuum-annealing at 500 K in a vacuum of 10-7 Torr. The observed p-type behavior under ambient conditions is attributed to the oxygen doping, while the n-type behavior under degassed conditions is due to electron doping from SiO2 surface states. It was observed that the sign of the TEP switched from negative to positive for the degassed graphene when exposed to acceptor gases. Conversely, the TEP of vacuum-annealed graphene exposed to the donor gases became even more negative than the TEP of vacuum-annealed sample.

Detection of submicron scale cracks and other surface anomalies using positron emission tomography

DOEpatents

Cowan, Thomas E.; Howell, Richard H.; Colmenares, Carlos A.

2004-02-17

Detection of submicron scale cracks and other mechanical and chemical surface anomalies using PET. This surface technique has sufficient sensitivity to detect single voids or pits of sub-millimeter size and single cracks or fissures of millimeter size; and single cracks or fissures of millimeter-scale length, micrometer-scale depth, and nanometer-scale length, micrometer-scale depth, and nanometer-scale width. This technique can also be applied to detect surface regions of differing chemical reactivity. It may be utilized in a scanning or survey mode to simultaneously detect such mechanical or chemical features over large interior or exterior surface areas of parts as large as about 50 cm in diameter. The technique involves exposing a surface to short-lived radioactive gas for a time period, removing the excess gas to leave a partial monolayer, determining the location and shape of the cracks, voids, porous regions, etc., and calculating the width, depth, and length thereof. Detection of 0.01 mm deep cracks using a 3 mm detector resolution has been accomplished using this technique.

MX Siting Investigation Water Resources Program.

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-10-31

bedrock units are highly dependent upon the degree of secondary permeability ( fractures and solution open- ings). Although the first unit is believed to...the Fortification Range. Carbonate rocks, largely limestone and dolomite , are exposed in the Bristol and Highland I ranges. Deposits composing the...infiltration of precipitation, surface runoff, and subsurface underflow from fractured or solutioned volcanic and/or carbonate bedrock. Recharge by di- Irect

Rainfall-induced runoff from exposed streambed sediments: an important source of water pollution.

PubMed

Frey, S K; Gottschall, N; Wilkes, G; Grégoire, D S; Topp, E; Pintar, K D M; Sunohara, M; Marti, R; Lapen, D R

2015-01-01

When surface water levels decline, exposed streambed sediments can be mobilized and washed into the water course when subjected to erosive rainfall. In this study, rainfall simulations were conducted over exposed sediments along stream banks at four distinct locations in an agriculturally dominated river basin with the objective of quantifying the potential for contaminant loading from these often overlooked runoff source areas. At each location, simulations were performed at three different sites. Nitrogen, phosphorus, sediment, fecal indicator bacteria, pathogenic bacteria, and microbial source tracking (MST) markers were examined in both prerainfall sediments and rainfall-induced runoff water. Runoff generation and sediment mobilization occurred quickly (10-150 s) after rainfall initiation. Temporal trends in runoff concentrations were highly variable within and between locations. Total runoff event loads were considered large for many pollutants considered. For instance, the maximum observed total phosphorus runoff load was on the order of 1.5 kg ha. Results also demonstrate that runoff from exposed sediments can be a source of pathogenic bacteria. spp. and spp. were present in runoff from one and three locations, respectively. Ruminant MST markers were also present in runoff from two locations, one of which hosted pasturing cattle with stream access. Overall, this study demonstrated that rainfall-induced runoff from exposed streambed sediments can be an important source of surface water pollution. Copyright © by the American Society of Agronomy, Crop Science Society of America, and Soil Science Society of America, Inc.

ARC-1986-AC86-7018

NASA Image and Video Library

1986-01-25

P-29502C Range: 1.04 million kilometers (650,000 miles) This color photo of Umbriel, the darkest of Uranus' five large moons was synthesized from frames exposed with the Voyager narrow-angle camera's violet and clear filters and has a resolution of 19 km (12 mi.). Umbriel is characterized by the darkest surface and smallest brightness variations of any of the large satellites of Uranus. As seen here, the surface is also generally gray and colorless. Nevertheless, at this resolution, considerable topographic detail is revealed, showing that Umbriel's surface is covered by impact craters. The brightest spot (shown at top near the equator at approxiamately 270 ° longitude) appears as a bright ring. Its geological significance is not yet understood. Umbriel has a diameter of about 1,200 km (750 miles) and orbits 267,000 km (166,000 mi) from Uranus' center. The satellite's name, from Alexander Pope's 'Rape of the Lock,' means 'dark angel'.

Helium segregation on surfaces of plasma-exposed tungsten

DOE PAGES

Maroudas, Dimitrios; Blondel, Sophie; Hu, Lin; ...

2016-01-21

Here we report a hierarchical multi-scale modeling study of implanted helium segregation on surfaces of tungsten, considered as a plasma facing component in nuclear fusion reactors. We employ a hierarchy of atomic-scale simulations based on a reliable interatomic interaction potential, including molecular-statics simulations to understand the origin of helium surface segregation, targeted molecular-dynamics (MD) simulations of near-surface cluster reactions, and large-scale MD simulations of implanted helium evolution in plasma-exposed tungsten. We find that small, mobile He-n (1 <= n <= 7) clusters in the near-surface region are attracted to the surface due to an elastic interaction force that provides themore » thermodynamic driving force for surface segregation. Elastic interaction force induces drift fluxes of these mobile Hen clusters, which increase substantially as the migrating clusters approach the surface, facilitating helium segregation on the surface. Moreover, the clusters' drift toward the surface enables cluster reactions, most importantly trap mutation, in the near-surface region at rates much higher than in the bulk material. Moreover, these near-surface cluster dynamics have significant effects on the surface morphology, near-surface defect structures, and the amount of helium retained in the material upon plasma exposure. We integrate the findings of such atomic-scale simulations into a properly parameterized and validated spatially dependent, continuum-scale reaction-diffusion cluster dynamics model, capable of predicting implanted helium evolution, surface segregation, and its near-surface effects in tungsten. This cluster-dynamics model sets the stage for development of fully atomistically informed coarse-grained models for computationally efficient simulation predictions of helium surface segregation, as well as helium retention and surface morphological evolution, toward optimal design of plasma facing components.« less

Helium segregation on surfaces of plasma-exposed tungsten

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maroudas, Dimitrios; Blondel, Sophie; Hu, Lin; Hammond, Karl D.; Wirth, Brian D.

2016-02-01

We report a hierarchical multi-scale modeling study of implanted helium segregation on surfaces of tungsten, considered as a plasma facing component in nuclear fusion reactors. We employ a hierarchy of atomic-scale simulations based on a reliable interatomic interaction potential, including molecular-statics simulations to understand the origin of helium surface segregation, targeted molecular-dynamics (MD) simulations of near-surface cluster reactions, and large-scale MD simulations of implanted helium evolution in plasma-exposed tungsten. We find that small, mobile He n (1  ⩽  n  ⩽  7) clusters in the near-surface region are attracted to the surface due to an elastic interaction force that provides the thermodynamic driving force for surface segregation. This elastic interaction force induces drift fluxes of these mobile He n clusters, which increase substantially as the migrating clusters approach the surface, facilitating helium segregation on the surface. Moreover, the clusters’ drift toward the surface enables cluster reactions, most importantly trap mutation, in the near-surface region at rates much higher than in the bulk material. These near-surface cluster dynamics have significant effects on the surface morphology, near-surface defect structures, and the amount of helium retained in the material upon plasma exposure. We integrate the findings of such atomic-scale simulations into a properly parameterized and validated spatially dependent, continuum-scale reaction-diffusion cluster dynamics model, capable of predicting implanted helium evolution, surface segregation, and its near-surface effects in tungsten. This cluster-dynamics model sets the stage for development of fully atomistically informed coarse-grained models for computationally efficient simulation predictions of helium surface segregation, as well as helium retention and surface morphological evolution, toward optimal design of plasma facing components.

'Shrink' losses in commercially sized corn silage piles: Quantifying total losses and where they occur.

PubMed

Robinson, P H; Swanepoel, N; Heguy, J M; Price, T; Meyer, D M

2016-01-15

Silage 'shrink' (i.e., loss of fresh chopped crop between ensiling and feedout) represents a nutrient loss which can degrade air quality as volatile carbon compounds, degrade surface waterways due to seepage, or degrade aquifers due to seepage. Virtually no research has documented shrink in large silage piles. The term 'shrink' is often ill defined, but can be expressed as losses of wet weight (WW), oven dry matter (oDM), and oDM corrected for volatiles lost in the drying oven (vcoDM). Corn silage piles (4 wedge, 2 rollover/wedge, 1 bunker) from 950 to 12,204 tonnes as built, on concrete (4), soil (2) and a combination (1) in California's San Joaquin Valley, using a bacterial inoculant, covered within 24 h with an oxygen barrier inner film and black/white outer plastic, fed out using large front end loaders through an electronic feed tracking system, and from the 2013 crop year, were used. Shrink as WW, oDM and vcoDM were 90±17, 68±18 and 28±21 g/kg, suggesting that much WW shrink is water and much oDM shrink is volatiles lost during analytical oven drying. Most shrink occurred in the silage mass with losses from exposed silage faces, as well as between exposed face silage removal and the total mixed ration mixer, being low. Silage bulk density, exposed silage face management and face use rate did not have obvious impacts on any shrink measure, but age of the silage pile during silage feedout impacted shrink losses ('older' silage piles being higher), but most strongly for WW shrink. Real shrink losses (i.e., vcoDM) of large well managed corn silage piles are low, the exposed silage face is a small portion of losses, and many proposed shrink mitigations appeared ineffective, possibly because shrink was low overall and they are largely directed at the exposed silage face. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Synthesis and characterization of thin-transparent nanostructured films for surface protection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Veltri, S.; Sokullu, E.; Barberio, M.; Gauthier, M. A.; Antici, P.

2017-01-01

This work demonstrates that very thin and optically transparent nanocomposite films can be conveniently applied on surface materials, displaying potent antibacterial properties without affecting the aesthetics of the underlying material. In our approach we propose new composite materials, which ensure the surface protection by inactivating the bacteria before a biofilm can be formed. The films contain very small loadings of TiO2, graphene, or fullerene, and can easily be applied on large surfaces using conventional brushes or air-brushes. These nanocomposite films are very promising candidates for the preservation of statues, mosaics, floors, buildings, and other objects that are exposed to challenging environmental conditions such as Architectonical Heritage or building materials (materials featuring stone, pigments, bronze, granite, marble, and glass).

Oral cavity hydrodynamics and drag production in Balaenid whale suspension feeding.

PubMed

Potvin, Jean; Werth, Alexander J

2017-01-01

Balaenid whales feed on large aggregates of small and slow-moving prey (predominantly copepods) through a filtration process enabled by baleen. These whales exhibit continuous filtration, namely, with the mouth kept partially opened and the baleen exposed to oncoming prey-laden waters while fluking. The process is an example of crossflow filtration (CFF) in which most of the particulates (prey) are separated from the substrate (water) without ever coming into contact with the filtering surface (baleen). This paper discusses the simulation of baleen filtration hydrodynamics based on a type of hydraulic circuit modeling commonly used in microfluidics, but adapted to the much higher Reynolds number flows typical of whale hydrodynamics. This so-called Baleen Hydraulic Circuit (BHC) model uses as input the basic characteristics of the flows moving through a section of baleen observed in a previous flume study by the authors. The model has low-spatial resolution but incorporates the effects of fluid viscosity, which doubles or more a whale's total body drag in comparison to non-feeding travel. Modeling viscous friction is crucial here since exposing the baleen system to the open ocean ends up tripling a whale's total wetted surface area. Among other findings, the BHC shows how CFF is enhanced by a large filtration surface and hence large body size; how it is carried out via the establishment of rapid anteroposterior flows transporting most of the prey-water slurry towards the oropharyngeal wall; how slower intra-baleen flows manage to transfer most of the substrate out of the mouth, all the while contributing only a fraction to overall oral cavity drag; and how these anteroposterior and intra-baleen flows lose speed as they approach the oropharyngeal wall.

Oral cavity hydrodynamics and drag production in Balaenid whale suspension feeding

PubMed Central

Werth, Alexander J.

2017-01-01

Balaenid whales feed on large aggregates of small and slow-moving prey (predominantly copepods) through a filtration process enabled by baleen. These whales exhibit continuous filtration, namely, with the mouth kept partially opened and the baleen exposed to oncoming prey-laden waters while fluking. The process is an example of crossflow filtration (CFF) in which most of the particulates (prey) are separated from the substrate (water) without ever coming into contact with the filtering surface (baleen). This paper discusses the simulation of baleen filtration hydrodynamics based on a type of hydraulic circuit modeling commonly used in microfluidics, but adapted to the much higher Reynolds number flows typical of whale hydrodynamics. This so-called Baleen Hydraulic Circuit (BHC) model uses as input the basic characteristics of the flows moving through a section of baleen observed in a previous flume study by the authors. The model has low-spatial resolution but incorporates the effects of fluid viscosity, which doubles or more a whale’s total body drag in comparison to non-feeding travel. Modeling viscous friction is crucial here since exposing the baleen system to the open ocean ends up tripling a whale’s total wetted surface area. Among other findings, the BHC shows how CFF is enhanced by a large filtration surface and hence large body size; how it is carried out via the establishment of rapid anteroposterior flows transporting most of the prey-water slurry towards the oropharyngeal wall; how slower intra-baleen flows manage to transfer most of the substrate out of the mouth, all the while contributing only a fraction to overall oral cavity drag; and how these anteroposterior and intra-baleen flows lose speed as they approach the oropharyngeal wall. PMID:28399142

Differential photoelectric charging of nonconducting surfaces in space. [on sunlit strip

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pelizzari, M. A.; Criswell, D. R.

1978-01-01

The photoelectric charging caused by an infinitely long strip of sunlight across a nonconducting plane is studied by use of a model which contains an electrical cutoff radius, and the results of numerical calculations are presented. The model simulates charging of a sunlit area with dimensions equal to the strip's width, exposed to a plasma with a comparatively large Debye length. Uniform potential is quickly established on a uniformly sunlit strip as a result of charge redistribution by low-energy photoelectrons. The results are in accord with a theoretical surface conductivity derived for photoelectron sheaths above highly charged sunlit areas. The surface potential, which drops sharply across the sunlight-shadow boundary, is discussed.

Compositional analysis of projectile residues on LDEF instrument AO187-1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bernhard, Ronald P.; Horz, F.

1992-01-01

Impact craters greater than 30 microns and associated projectile residues were analyzed by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray Analysis (EDXA). Objectives were to analyze a statistically significant number of projectiles to evaluate their chemical variability and possible clustering into discrete particle types. Bay A11 exposed six collector surfaces of anodized 1100-T4 (greater than 99 percent pure) aluminum sheets, 0.32 cm thick, yielding an exposed surface area of 1.1 sq. m. Four of the six panels have been retained at JSC, and were optically scanned, one (A11E00E) was prepared for SEM/EDX analysis. Bay A03 was occupied by high purity (99.99 percent) gold sheets, 0.5 mm thick, yielding an exposed surface area of 0.85 sq. m. Sample processing included the optical scanning (6X), labeling, and dislodging (by a punch-die device) of each individual impact greater than 75 microns for the aluminum and 30 microns for the gold. The 209 craters were dislodged form A11E00E, having crater diameters up to 3500 microns. Optical examination of the gold surfaces detected 238 craters, 198 of which were retained at JSC and analyzed via SEM/EDX. The analytical procedures included maximizing the geometric efficiency (take-off angles), using relatively long count times (500-1000 sec) and sufficiently high accelerating currents (25-30Kev). Despite diligent examination, a large number of craters did not exhibit measurable signals above background. Detectable resides were classified as either micrometeoritic or as man-made debris.

Planetary Perspective on Life on Early Mars and the Early Earth

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sleep, Norman H.; Zahnle, Kevin

1996-01-01

Impacts of asteroids and comets posed a major hazard to the continuous existence of early life on Mars as on the Earth. The chief danger was presented by globally distributed ejecta, which for very large impacts takes the form of transient thick rock vapor atmospheres; both planets suffered such impacts repeatedly. The exposed surface on both planets was sterilized when it was quickly heated to the temperature of condensed rock vapor by radiation and rock rain. Shallow water bodies were quickly evaporated and sterilized. Any surviving life must have been either in deep water or well below the surface.

Monitoring Seasonal Changes in Winery-Resident Microbiota.

PubMed

Bokulich, Nicholas A; Ohta, Moe; Richardson, Paul M; Mills, David A

2013-01-01

During the transformation of grapes to wine, wine fermentations are exposed to a large area of specialized equipment surfaces within wineries, which may serve as important reservoirs for two-way transfer of microbes between fermentations. However, the role of winery environments in shaping the microbiota of wine fermentations and vectoring wine spoilage organisms is poorly understood at the systems level. Microbial communities inhabiting all major equipment and surfaces in a pilot-scale winery were surveyed over the course of a single harvest to track the appearance of equipment microbiota before, during, and after grape harvest. Results demonstrate that under normal cleaning conditions winery surfaces harbor seasonally fluctuating populations of bacteria and fungi. Surface microbial communities were dependent on the production context at each site, shaped by technological practices, processing stage, and season. During harvest, grape- and fermentation-associated organisms populated most winery surfaces, acting as potential reservoirs for microbial transfer between fermentations. These surfaces harbored large populations of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and other yeasts prior to harvest, potentially serving as an important vector of these yeasts in wine fermentations. However, the majority of the surface communities before and after harvest comprised organisms with no known link to wine fermentations and a near-absence of spoilage-related organisms, suggesting that winery surfaces do not overtly vector wine spoilage microbes under normal operating conditions.

Monitoring Seasonal Changes in Winery-Resident Microbiota

PubMed Central

Bokulich, Nicholas A.; Ohta, Moe; Richardson, Paul M.; Mills, David A.

2013-01-01

During the transformation of grapes to wine, wine fermentations are exposed to a large area of specialized equipment surfaces within wineries, which may serve as important reservoirs for two-way transfer of microbes between fermentations. However, the role of winery environments in shaping the microbiota of wine fermentations and vectoring wine spoilage organisms is poorly understood at the systems level. Microbial communities inhabiting all major equipment and surfaces in a pilot-scale winery were surveyed over the course of a single harvest to track the appearance of equipment microbiota before, during, and after grape harvest. Results demonstrate that under normal cleaning conditions winery surfaces harbor seasonally fluctuating populations of bacteria and fungi. Surface microbial communities were dependent on the production context at each site, shaped by technological practices, processing stage, and season. During harvest, grape- and fermentation-associated organisms populated most winery surfaces, acting as potential reservoirs for microbial transfer between fermentations. These surfaces harbored large populations of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and other yeasts prior to harvest, potentially serving as an important vector of these yeasts in wine fermentations. However, the majority of the surface communities before and after harvest comprised organisms with no known link to wine fermentations and a near-absence of spoilage-related organisms, suggesting that winery surfaces do not overtly vector wine spoilage microbes under normal operating conditions. PMID:23840468

Surface damage and structure evolution of recrystallized tungsten exposed to ELM-like transient loads

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuan, Y.; Du, J.; Wirtz, M.; Luo, G.-N.; Lu, G.-H.; Liu, W.

2016-03-01

Surface damage and structure evolution of the full tungsten ITER divertor under transient heat loads is a key concern for component lifetime and plasma operations. Recrystallization caused by transients and steady-state heat loads can lead to degradation of the material properties and is therefore one of the most serious issues for tungsten armor. In order to investigate the thermal response of the recrystallized tungsten under edge localized mode-like transient thermal loads, fully recrystallized tungsten samples with different average grain sizes are exposed to cyclic thermal shocks in the electron beam facility JUDITH 1. The results indicate that not only does the microstructure change due to recrystallization, but that the surface residual stress induced by mechanical polishing strongly influences the surface cracking behavior. The stress-free surface prepared by electro-polishing is shown to be more resistant to cracking than the mechanically polished one. The resulting surface roughness depends largely on the loading conditions instead of the recrystallized-grain size. As the base temperature increases from room temperature to 400 °C, surface roughening mainly due to the shear bands in each grain becomes more pronounced, and sub-grains (up to 3 μm) are simultaneously formed in the sub-surface. The directions of the shear bands exhibit strong grain-orientation dependence, and they are generally aligned with the traces of {1 1 2} twin habit planes. The results suggest that twinning deformation and dynamic recrystallization represent the predominant mechanism for surface roughening and related microstructure evolution.

A Nine Kilometer Impact Crater and Its Central Peak

NASA Image and Video Library

2017-02-08

found across the Martian surface. Each impact crater on Mars possesses a unique origin and composition, which makes the HiRISE team very interested in sampling as many of them as possible! Like the impact of a droplet into fluid, once an impact has occurred on the surface of Mars, an ejecta curtain forms immediately after, contributing to the raised rim visible at the top of the crater's walls. After the formation of the initial crater, if it is large enough, then a central peak appears as the surface rebounds. These central peaks can expose rocks that were previously deeply buried beneath the Martian surface. The blue and red colors in this enhanced-contrast image reflect the effects of post-impact sedimentation and weathering over time. http://photojournal.jpl.nasa.gov/catalog/PIA08395

Surface composition changes in massive star evolution with mass loss

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Noels, A.; Gabriel, M.; Vreux, J.-M.; Conti, P. S.

1980-01-01

A series of evolutionary models of 40-100 solar mass objects undergoing mass loss are constructed with the explicit inclusion of the surface composition of H, He, C, N, O elements. Mass loss rates similar to those observed in Of stars, 4 to 7 x 10 to the -6th solar masses/yr, result in an appearance at the surface of equilibrium CNO products, i.e. enhanced nitrogen and diminished carbon, while that star is still burning hydrogen in the core. This result obtains because the initial convection core is a relatively large fraction of the total mass and rather modest loss exposes levels of anomalous composition. It is suggested that these objects might reasonably be identified as those luminous late type WN stars still containing surface hydrogen.

Fermi arc plasmons in Weyl semimetals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Song, Justin C. W.; Rudner, Mark S.

2017-11-01

In the recently discovered Weyl semimetals, the Fermi surface may feature disjoint, open segments—the so-called Fermi arcs—associated with topological states bound to exposed crystal surfaces. Here we show that the collective dynamics of electrons near such surfaces sharply departs from that of a conventional three-dimensional metal. In magnetic systems with broken time reversal symmetry, the resulting Fermi arc plasmons (FAPs) are chiral, with dispersion relations featuring open, hyperbolic constant frequency contours. As a result, a large range of surface plasmon wave vectors can be supported at a given frequency, with corresponding group velocity vectors directed along a few specific collimated directions. Fermi arc plasmons can be probed using near-field photonics techniques, which may be used to launch highly directional, focused surface plasmon beams. The unusual characteristics of FAPs arise from the interplay of bulk and surface Fermi arc carrier dynamics and give a window into the unusual fermiology of Weyl semimetals.

Limitations of using a thermal imager for snow pit temperatures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schirmer, M.; Jamieson, B.

2014-03-01

Driven by temperature gradients, kinetic snow metamorphism plays an import role in avalanche formation. When gradients based on temperatures measured 10 cm apart appear to be insufficient for kinetic metamorphism, faceting close to a crust can be observed. Recent studies that visualised small-scale (< 10 cm) thermal structures in a profile of snow layers with an infrared (IR) camera produced interesting results. The studies found melt-freeze crusts to be warmer or cooler than the surrounding snow depending on the large-scale gradient direction. However, an important assumption within these studies was that a thermal photo of a freshly exposed snow pit was similar enough to the internal temperature of the snow. In this study, we tested this assumption by recording thermal videos during the exposure of the snow pit wall. In the first minute, the results showed increasing gradients with time, both at melt-freeze crusts and artificial surface structures such as shovel scours. Cutting through a crust with a cutting blade or shovel produced small concavities (holes) even when the objective was to cut a planar surface. Our findings suggest there is a surface structure dependency of the thermal image, which was only observed at times during a strong cooling/warming of the exposed pit wall. We were able to reproduce the hot-crust/cold-crust phenomenon and relate it entirely to surface structure in a temperature-controlled cold laboratory. Concave areas cooled or warmed more slowly compared with convex areas (bumps) when applying temperature differences between snow and air. This can be explained by increased radiative and/or turbulent energy transfer at convex areas. Thermal videos suggest that such processes influence the snow temperature within seconds. Our findings show the limitations of using a thermal camera for measuring pit-wall temperatures, particularly during windy conditions, clear skies and large temperature differences between air and snow. At crusts or other heterogeneities, we were unable to create a sufficiently planar snow pit surface and non-internal gradients appeared at the exposed surface. The immediate adjustment of snow pit temperature as it reacts with the atmosphere complicates the capture of the internal thermal structure of a snowpack with thermal videos. Instead, the shown structural dependency of the IR signal may be used to detect structural changes of snow caused by kinetic metamorphism. The IR signal can also be used to measure near surface temperatures in a homogenous new snow layer.

Arrays of Ultrathin CdS Nanoflakes with High-Energy Surface for Efficient Gas Detection.

PubMed

Liu, Xiao-Hua; Yin, Peng-Fei; Kulinich, Sergei A; Zhou, Yu-Zhu; Mao, Jing; Ling, Tao; Du, Xi-Wen

2017-01-11

It is fascinating and challenging to endow conventional materials with unprecedented properties. For instance, cadmium sulfide (CdS) is an important semiconductor with excellent light response; however, its potential in gas-sensing was underestimated owing to relatively low chemical activity and poor electrical conductivity. Herein, we demonstrate that an ideal architecture, ultrathin nanoflake arrays (NFAs), can improve significantly gas-sensing properties of CdS material. The CdS NFAs are grown directly on the interdigitated electrode to expose large surface area. Their thickness is reduced below the double Debye length of CdS, permitting to achieve a full depletion of carriers. Particularly, the prepared CdS nanoflakes are enclosed with high-energy {0001} facets exposed, which provides more active sites for gas adsorption. Moreover, the NFAs exhibit the light-trapping effect, which further enhances their gas sensitivity. As a result, the as-prepared CdS NFAs demonstrate excellent gas-sensing and light-response properties, thus being capable of dual gas and light detection.

Electrode holder useful in a corrosion testing device

DOEpatents

Murphy, R.J. Jr.; Jamison, D.E.

1986-08-19

The present invention is directed to an apparatus and method for holding one or more test electrodes of precisely known exposed surface area. The present invention is particularly useful in a device for determining the corrosion properties of the materials from which the test electrodes have been formed. The present invention relates to a device and method for holding the described electrodes wherein the exposed surface area of the electrodes is only infinitesimally decreased. Further, in the present invention the exposed, electrically conductive surface area of the contact devices is small relative to the test electrode surface area. The holder of the present invention conveniently comprises a device for contacting and engaging each test electrode at two point contacts infinitesimally small in relation to the exposed surface area of the electrodes. 4 figs.

Electrode holder useful in a corrosion testing device

DOEpatents

Murphy, Jr., Robert J.; Jamison, Dale E.

1986-01-01

The present invention is directed to an apparatus and method for holding one or more test electrodes of precisely known exposed surface area. The present invention is particularly useful in a device for determining the corrosion properties of the materials from which the test electrodes have been formed. The present invention relates to a device and method for holding the described electrodes wherein the exposed surface area of the electrodes is only infinitesimally decreased. Further, in the present invention the exposed, electrically conductive surface area of the contact devices is small relative to the test electrode surface area. The holder of the present invention conveniently comprises a device for contacting and engaging each test electrode at two point contacts infinitesimally small in relation to the exposed surface area of the electrodes.

Surface morphology and morphometry of rat alveolar macrophages after ozone exposure

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

Dormans, J.A.; Rombout, P.J.; van Loveren, H.

1990-09-01

As the ultrastructural data on the effects of ozone on pulmonary alveolar macrophages (PAM) are lacking, transmission (TEM) and scanning (SEM) electron microscopy were performed on rat PAM present in alveolar lavages following exposure to ozone. Rats were continuously exposed for 7 d to ozone concentrations ranging from 0.25 to 1.50 mg/m3 for 7 d followed by a 5-d recovery period. Additionally, morphometry on lung sections was performed to quantitate PAM. In a second experiment rats were continuously exposed to 1.50 mg O3/m3 for 1, 3, 5, or 7 d. To study the influence of concurrent ozone exposure and lungmore » infection, due to Listeria monocytogenes, rats were exposed for 7 d to 1.50 mg O3/m3 after a Listeria infection. The surface area of lavaged control PAM was uniformly covered with ruffles as shown by SEM and TEM. Exposure to 0.5 mg ozone/m3 for 7 d resulted in cells partly covered with microvilli and blebs in addition to normal ruffles. The number of large size PAM increased with an increase in ozone concentration. After 1 d of exposure, normal-appearing as well as many small macrophages with ruffles and scattered lymphocytes were seen. Lavage samples taken after 5 or 7 d of exposure showed an identical cell composition to that taken after 3 d of exposure. After Listeria infection alone, lavage samples consisted of mainly lymphocytes and some macrophages. Small quantitative changes, such as an increase in the number of polymorphonuclear neutrophils and large-size PAM, occurred in lavages after ozone exposure and infection with L. monocytogenes. Morphometric examination of lung sections revealed a concentration-related increase in the number of PAM, even in animals exposed to 0.25 mg ozone/m3 for 7 d. Centriacinar regions were more severely affected than other regions of lung tissue.« less

Acidification of lake water due to drought

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mosley, L. M.; Zammit, B.; Jolley, A. M.; Barnett, L.

2014-04-01

Droughts are predicted to increase in many river systems due to increased demand on water resources and climate variability. A severe drought in the Murray-Darling Basin of Australia from 2007 to 2009 resulted in unprecedented declines in water levels in the Lower Lakes (Ramsar-listed ecosystem of international importance) at the end of the river system. The receding water exposed large areas (>200 km2) of sediments on the lake margins. The pyrite (FeS2) in these sediments oxidised and generated high concentrations of acidity. Upon rewetting of the exposed sediments, by rainfall or lake refill, surface water acidification (pH 2-3) occurred in several locations (total area of 21.7 km2). High concentrations of dissolved metals (Al, As, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Zn), which greatly exceeded aquatic ecosystem protection guidelines, were mobilised in the acidic conditions. In many areas neutralisation of the surface water acidity occurred naturally during lake refill, but aerial limestone dosing was required in two areas to assist in restoring alkalinity. However acidity persists in the submerged lake sediment and groundwater several years after surface water neutralisation. The surface water acidification proved costly to manage and improved water management in the Murray-Darling Basin is required to prevent similar events occurring in the future.

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

Lu, Zhiyi; Chen, Guangxu; Li, Yanbin

Identification of active sites for catalytic processes has both fundamental and technological implications for rational design of future catalysts. Herein, we study the active surfaces of layered lithium cobalt oxide (LCO) for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) using the enhancement effect of electrochemical delithiation (De-LCO). Our theoretical results indicate that the most stable (0001) surface has a very large overpotential for OER independent of lithium content. In contrast, edge sites such as the nonpolar (1120) and polar (0112) surfaces are predicted to be highly active and dependent on (de)lithiation. The effect of lithium extraction from LCO on the surfaces andmore » their OER activities can be understood by the increase of Co 4+ sites relative to Co 3+ and by the shift of active oxygen 2p states. Experimentally, it is demonstrated that LCO nanosheets, which dominantly expose the (0001) surface show negligible OER enhancement upon delithiation. However, a noticeable increase in OER activity (~0.1 V in overpotential shift at 10 mA cm –2) is observed for the LCO nanoparticles, where the basal plane is greatly diminished to expose the edge sites, consistent with the theoretical simulations. In addition, we find that the OER activity of De-LCO nanosheets can be improved if we adopt an acid etching method on LCO to create more active edge sites, which in turn provides a strong evidence for the theoretical indication.« less

Correlation between border traps and exposed surface properties in gate recessed normally-off Al2O3/GaN MOSFET

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yin, Ruiyuan; Li, Yue; Sun, Yu; Wen, Cheng P.; Hao, Yilong; Wang, Maojun

2018-06-01

We report the effect of the gate recess process and the surface of as-etched GaN on the gate oxide quality and first reveal the correlation between border traps and exposed surface properties in normally-off Al2O3/GaN MOSFET. The inductively coupled plasma (ICP) dry etching gate recess with large damage presents a rough and active surface that is prone to form detrimental GaxO validated by atomic force microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Lower drain current noise spectral density of the 1/f form and less dispersive ac transconductance are observed in GaN MOSFETs fabricated with oxygen assisted wet etching compared with devices based on ICP dry etching. One decade lower density of border traps is extracted in devices with wet etching according to the carrier number fluctuation model, which is consistent with the result from the ac transconductance method. Both methods show that the density of border traps is skewed towards the interface, indicating that GaxO is of higher trap density than the bulk gate oxide. GaxO located close to the interface is the major location of border traps. The damage-free oxidation assisted wet etching gate recess technique presents a relatively smooth and stable surface, resulting in lower border trap density, which would lead to better MOS channel quality and improved device reliability.

Ab initio simulation of structure and surface energy of low-index surfaces of stoichiometric α-Fe2O3

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stirner, Thomas; Scholz, David; Sun, Jizhong

2018-05-01

The structure and surface energy of a series of low-index surfaces of stoichiometric α-Fe2O3 (hematite) are investigated using the periodic Hartree-Fock approach with an a posteriori correction of the correlation energy. The simulations show that, amongst the modeled facets, (01 1 bar2) and (0001) are the most stable surfaces of hematite, which is consistent with the fact that the latter are the dominant growth faces exposed on natural α-Fe2O3. The Fe-terminated (0001) surface is shown to exhibit a large relaxation of the surface atoms. It is argued that this arises mainly due to the fact that the surface cations are located opposite empty cation sites in the filled-filled-unfilled cation sequence along the c-axis. In contrast, the (01 1 bar2) plane cuts the crystal through a plane of empty cation sites, thus giving rise to relatively small relaxations and surface energies. The small relaxations and concomitant exposure of five-coordinate cation sites may be important for the catalytic activity of hematite. The simulations also show that the relative stability of the investigated surfaces changes after a full lattice relaxation with the (0001) and (11 2 bar6) facets relaxing disproportionately large. Wherever possible, the simulations are compared with previous simulation data and experimental results. A Wulff-Gibbs construction is also presented.

Grain boundary engineering for control of tellurium diffusion in GH3535 alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fu, Cai-Tao; Yinling, Wang; Chu, Xiang-Wei; Jiang, Li; Zhang, Wen-Zhu; Bai, Qin; Xia, Shuang; Leng, Bin; Li, Zhi-Jun; Ye, Xiang-Xi; Liu, Fang

2017-12-01

The effect of grain boundary engineering (GBE) on the Te diffusion along the surface grain boundaries was investigated in GH3535 alloy. It can be found that GBE treatment increases obviously the fraction of low-Σ coincidence site lattice (CSL) boundaries, especially the Σ3 ones, and introduces the large-size grain clusters. When the as-received (AR) and GBE-treated (GBET) specimens were exposed to Te vapor, only Σ3 boundaries were found to be resistant to Te diffusion. From the cross section and the surface, the fewer Te-attacked grain boundaries and the thinner corrosion layer can be observed in the GBET sample. The improvement of resistance to Te diffusion in the GBET sample can be attributed to the large size grain-clusters associated with high proportion of the Σ3n boundaries.

Identifying the Active Surfaces of Electrochemically Tuned LiCoO 2 for Oxygen Evolution Reaction

DOE PAGES

Lu, Zhiyi; Chen, Guangxu; Li, Yanbin; ...

2017-04-18

Identification of active sites for catalytic processes has both fundamental and technological implications for rational design of future catalysts. Herein, we study the active surfaces of layered lithium cobalt oxide (LCO) for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) using the enhancement effect of electrochemical delithiation (De-LCO). Our theoretical results indicate that the most stable (0001) surface has a very large overpotential for OER independent of lithium content. In contrast, edge sites such as the nonpolar (1120) and polar (0112) surfaces are predicted to be highly active and dependent on (de)lithiation. The effect of lithium extraction from LCO on the surfaces andmore » their OER activities can be understood by the increase of Co 4+ sites relative to Co 3+ and by the shift of active oxygen 2p states. Experimentally, it is demonstrated that LCO nanosheets, which dominantly expose the (0001) surface show negligible OER enhancement upon delithiation. However, a noticeable increase in OER activity (~0.1 V in overpotential shift at 10 mA cm –2) is observed for the LCO nanoparticles, where the basal plane is greatly diminished to expose the edge sites, consistent with the theoretical simulations. In addition, we find that the OER activity of De-LCO nanosheets can be improved if we adopt an acid etching method on LCO to create more active edge sites, which in turn provides a strong evidence for the theoretical indication.« less

Effects of the low Earth orbit space environment on the surface chemistry of Kapton polyimide film: An XPS study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, Myung; Rooney, William; Whiteside, James

1992-01-01

Kapton H (DuPont Trademark) polyimide specimens exposed to the low earth (LEO) space environment suffered significant weathering with surface erosions of approximately 8.0 microns. Despite these effects, no significant changes in bulk chemistry were observed. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) was used to determine local changes induced from approximately 25 percent in 1980 vintage ground control specimens to nearly 53 percent in space exposed specimens. The greatest increase was observed for the divalent oxygen moieties, although a slight increase in carbonyl oxygen was also measured. Furthermore, the chemical shifts of all XPS peaks of space-exposed Kapton are shifted to higher energy. This is consistent with a higher oxidation state of the space exposed surface. Finally, space exposed specimens had distinct silicon peaks (2p 100 eV and 2s 149 eV) in their XPS spectra in agreement with widespread reports of silicon contamination throughout the LDEF satellite. These results are discussed in terms of surface reactivity of the polyimide exposed to the LEO environment and the chemical nature of contaminants deposited on flight surfaces due to satellite outgassing.

Dehydrogenation of methanol to formaldehyde catalyzed by pristine and defective ceria surfaces

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

Beste, Ariana; Overbury, Steven H.

We have explored the dehydrogenation of methoxy on pristine and defective (111), (100), and (110) ceria surfaces with density functional methods. Methanol conversion is used as a probe reaction to understand structure sensitivity of the oxide catalysis. Differences in reaction selectivity have been observed experimentally as a function of crystallographically exposed faces and degree of reduction. We find that the barrier for carbon-hydrogen cleavage in methoxy is similar for the pristine and defective (111), (100), and (110) surfaces. However, there are large differences in the stability of the surface intermediates on the different surfaces. The variations in experimentally observed productmore » selectivities are a consequence of the interplay between barrier controlled bond cleavage and desorption processes. Ultimately, subtle differences in activation energies for carbon-hydrogen cleavage on the different crystallographic faces of ceria could not be correlated with structural or electronic descriptors.« less

Dehydrogenation of methanol to formaldehyde catalyzed by pristine and defective ceria surfaces

DOE PAGES

Beste, Ariana; Overbury, Steven H.

2016-03-09

We have explored the dehydrogenation of methoxy on pristine and defective (111), (100), and (110) ceria surfaces with density functional methods. Methanol conversion is used as a probe reaction to understand structure sensitivity of the oxide catalysis. Differences in reaction selectivity have been observed experimentally as a function of crystallographically exposed faces and degree of reduction. We find that the barrier for carbon-hydrogen cleavage in methoxy is similar for the pristine and defective (111), (100), and (110) surfaces. However, there are large differences in the stability of the surface intermediates on the different surfaces. The variations in experimentally observed productmore » selectivities are a consequence of the interplay between barrier controlled bond cleavage and desorption processes. Ultimately, subtle differences in activation energies for carbon-hydrogen cleavage on the different crystallographic faces of ceria could not be correlated with structural or electronic descriptors.« less

Dehydrogenation of methanol to formaldehyde catalyzed by pristine and defective ceria surfaces.

PubMed

Beste, Ariana; Overbury, Steven H

2016-04-21

We have explored the dehydrogenation of methoxy on pristine and defective (111), (100), and (110) ceria surfaces with density functional methods. Methanol conversion is used as a probe reaction to understand structure sensitivity of the oxide catalysis. Differences in reaction selectivity have been observed experimentally as a function of crystallographically exposed faces and degree of reduction. We find that the barrier for carbon-hydrogen cleavage in methoxy is similar for the pristine and defective (111), (100), and (110) surfaces. However, there are large differences in the stability of the surface intermediates on the different surfaces. The variations in experimentally observed product selectivities are a consequence of the interplay between barrier controlled bond cleavage and desorption processes. Subtle differences in activation energies for carbon-hydrogen cleavage on the different crystallographic faces of ceria could not be correlated with structural or electronic descriptors.

Surface contamination on LDEF exposed materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hemminger, Carol S.

1992-01-01

X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) has been used to study the surface composition and chemistry of Long Duration Exposure Facility (LDEF) exposed materials including silvered Teflon (Ag/FEP), Kapton, S13GLO paint, quartz crystal monitors (QCM's), carbon fiber/organic matrix composites, and carbon fiber/Al Alloy composites. In each set of samples, silicones were the major contributors to the molecular film accumulated on the LDEF exposed surfaces. All surfaces analyzed have been contaminated with Si, O, and C; most have low levels (less than 1 atom percent) of N, S, and F. Occasionally observed contaminants included Cl, Na, K, P, and various metals. Orange/brown discoloration observed near vent slots in some Ag/FEP blankets were higher in carbon, sulfur, and nitrogen relative to other contamination types. The source of contamination has not been identified, but amine/amide functionalities were detected. It is probable that this same source of contamination account for the low levels of sulfur and nitrogen observed on most LDEF exposed surfaces. XPS, which probes 50 to 100 A in depth, detected the major sample components underneath the contaminant film in every analysis. This probably indicates that the contaminant overlayer is patchy, with significant areas covered by less that 100 A of molecular film. Energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS) of LDEF exposed surfaces during secondary electron microscopy (SEM) of the samples confirmed contamination of the surfaces with Si and O. In general, particulates were not observed to develop from the contaminant overlayer on the exposed LDEF material surfaces. However, many SiO2 submicron particles were seen on a masked edge of an Ag/FEP blanket. In some cases such as the carbon fiber/organic matrix composites, interpretation of the contamination data was hindered by the lack of good laboratory controls. Examination of laboratory controls for the carbon fiber/Al alloy composites showed that preflight contamination was the most significant factor for all the contaminants generally detected at less than 1 atom percent, or detected only occasionally (i.e., all but Si, O, and C). Flight control surfaces, including sample backsides not exposed to space radiation or atomic oxygen flux, have accumulated some contamination on flight (compared to laboratory controls), but experimentally, the LDEF exposed surface contamination levels are generally higher for the contaminants Si and O. For most materials analyzed, Si contamination levels were higher on the leading edge surfaces than on the trailing edge surfaces. This was true even for the composite samples where considerable atomic oxygen erosion of the leading edge surfaces was observed by SEM. It is probable that the return flux associated with atmospheric backscatter resulted in enhanced deposition of silicones and other contaminants on the leading edge flight surfaces relative to the trailing edge. Although the Si concentration data suggested greater on-flight deposition of contaminants on the leading edge surfaces, the XPS analyses did not conclusively show different relative total thicknesses of flight deposited contamination for leading and trailing edge surfaces. It is possible that atomic oxygen reactions on the leading edge resulted in greater volatilization of the carbon component of the deposited silicones, effectively 'thinning' the leading edge deposited overlayer. Unlike other materials, exposed polymers such as Kapton and FEP-type Teflon had very low contamination on the leading edge surfaces. SEM evidence showed that undercutting of the contaminant overlayer and damaged polymer layers occurred during atomic oxygen erosion, which would enhance loss of material from the exposed surface.

Atmospheric deposition and storm induced runoff of heavy metals from different impermeable urban surfaces.

PubMed

Wicke, Daniel; Cochrane, Thomas A; O'Sullivan, Aisling D

2012-01-01

Contaminants deposited on impermeable surfaces migrate to stormwater following rainfall events, but accurately quantifying their spatial and temporal yields useful for mitigation purposes is challenging. To overcome limitations in current sampling methods, a system was developed for rapid quantification of contaminant build-up and wash-off dynamics from different impervious surfaces. Thin boards constructed of concrete and two types of asphalt were deployed at different locations of a large carpark to capture spatially distributed contaminants from dry atmospheric deposition over specified periods of time. Following experimental exposure time, the boards were then placed under a rainfall simulator in the laboratory to generate contaminant runoff under controlled conditions. Single parameter effects including surface roughness and material composition, number of antecedent dry days, rain intensity, and water quality on contaminant build-up and wash-off yields could be investigated. The method was applied to quantify spatial differences in deposition rates of contaminants (TSS, zinc, copper and lead) at two locations varying in their distance to vehicle traffic. Results showed that boards exposed at an unused part of the carpark >50 m from vehicular traffic captured similar amounts of contaminants compared with boards that were exposed directly adjacent to the access route, indicating substantial atmospheric contaminant transport. Furthermore, differences in contaminant accumulation as a function of surface composition were observed. Runoff from asphalt boards yielded higher zinc loads compared with concrete surfaces, whereas runoff from concrete surfaces resulted in higher TSS concentrations attributed to its smoother surfaces. The application of this method enables relationships between individual contaminant behaviour and specific catchment characteristics to be investigated and provides a technique to derive site-specific build-up and wash-off functions required for modelling contaminant loads from impermeable surfaces.

The role of charged surface residues in the binding ability of small hubs in protein-protein interaction networks

PubMed Central

Patil, Ashwini; Nakamura, Haruki

2007-01-01

Hubs are highly connected proteins in a protein-protein interaction network. Previous work has implicated disordered domains and high surface charge as the properties significant in the ability of hubs to bind multiple proteins. While conformational flexibility of disordered domains plays an important role in the binding ability of large hubs, high surface charge is the dominant property in small hubs. In this study, we further investigate the role of the high surface charge in the binding ability of small hubs in the absence of disordered domains. Using multipole expansion, we find that the charges are highly distributed over the hub surfaces. Residue enrichment studies show that the charged residues in hubs are more prevalent on the exposed surface, with the exception of Arg, which is predominantly found at the interface, as compared to non-hubs. This suggests that the charged residues act primarily from the exposed surface rather than the interface to affect the binding ability of small hubs. They do this through (i) enhanced intra-molecular electrostatic interactions to lower the desolvation penalty, (ii) indirect long – range intermolecular interactions with charged residues on the partner proteins for better complementarity and electrostatic steering, and (iii) increased solubility for enhanced diffusion-controlled rate of binding. Along with Arg, we also find a high prevalence of polar residues Tyr, Gln and His and the hydrophobic residue Met at the interfaces of hubs, all of which have the ability to form multiple types of interactions, indicating that the interfaces of hubs are optimized to participate in multiple interactions. PMID:27857564

The role of charged surface residues in the binding ability of small hubs in protein-protein interaction networks.

PubMed

Patil, Ashwini; Nakamura, Haruki

2007-01-01

Hubs are highly connected proteins in a protein-protein interaction network. Previous work has implicated disordered domains and high surface charge as the properties significant in the ability of hubs to bind multiple proteins. While conformational flexibility of disordered domains plays an important role in the binding ability of large hubs, high surface charge is the dominant property in small hubs. In this study, we further investigate the role of the high surface charge in the binding ability of small hubs in the absence of disordered domains. Using multipole expansion, we find that the charges are highly distributed over the hub surfaces. Residue enrichment studies show that the charged residues in hubs are more prevalent on the exposed surface, with the exception of Arg, which is predominantly found at the interface, as compared to non-hubs. This suggests that the charged residues act primarily from the exposed surface rather than the interface to affect the binding ability of small hubs. They do this through (i) enhanced intra-molecular electrostatic interactions to lower the desolvation penalty, (ii) indirect long - range intermolecular interactions with charged residues on the partner proteins for better complementarity and electrostatic steering, and (iii) increased solubility for enhanced diffusion-controlled rate of binding. Along with Arg, we also find a high prevalence of polar residues Tyr, Gln and His and the hydrophobic residue Met at the interfaces of hubs, all of which have the ability to form multiple types of interactions, indicating that the interfaces of hubs are optimized to participate in multiple interactions.

Four passive sampling elements (quatrefoil)--I. Monitoring radon and its progeny by surface-contamination monitors.

PubMed

Tommasino, L; Tokonami, S

2011-05-01

Four passive sampling elements (quatrefoil) have been recently developed, which transform airborne radionuclides into surface-bound radionuclides. These samplers, once exposed, result in thin radiation sources that can be detected by any real-time or passive detector. In particular, by using a large collecting-area sampler with a low surface density (g cm(-2)), it is possible to measure radon and its decay products by beta surface-contamination monitors, which are rarely used for these applications. The results obtained to date prove that it is finally possible to carry out the measurements of radon (and its decay products) indoors, in soil and in water simply by a Pancake Geiger-Muller counter. Emphasis will be given to those measurements, which are difficult, if not impossible, to carry out with existing technologies.

Cyclic Oxidation of FeCrAlY/Al2O3 Composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nesbitt, James A.; Draper, Susan L.; Barrett, Charles A.

1999-01-01

Three-ply FeCrAlY/Al2O3 composites and FeCrAlY matrix-only samples were cyclically oxidized at 1000 C and 1100 C for up to 1000 1-hr cycles. Fiber ends were exposed at the ends of the composite samples. Following cyclic oxidation, cracks running parallel to and perpendicular to the fibers were observed on the large surface of the composite. In addition, there was evidence of increased scale damage and spallation around the exposed fiber ends, particularly around the middle ply fibers. This damage was more pronounced at the higher temperature. The exposed fiber ends showed cracking between fibers in the outer plies, occasionally with Fe and Cr-rich oxides growing out of the cracks. Large gaps developed at the fiber/matrix interface around many of the fibers, especially those in the outer plies. Oxygen penetrated many of these gaps resulting in significant oxide formation at the fiber/matrix interface far within the composite sample. Around several fibers, the matrix was also internally oxidized showing Al2O3 precipitates in a radial band around the fibers. The results show that these composites have poor cyclic oxidation resistance due to the CTE mismatch and inadequate fiber/matrix bond strength at temperatures of 1000 C and above.

Stratigraphic architecture of bedrock reference section, Victoria Crater, Meridiani Planum, Mars

USGS Publications Warehouse

Edgar, Lauren A.; Grotzinger, John P.; Hayes, Alex G.; Rubin, David M.; Squyres, Steve W.; Bell, James F.; Herkenhoff, Ken E.

2012-01-01

The Mars Exploration Rover Opportunity has investigated bedrock outcrops exposed in several craters at Meridiani Planum, Mars, in an effort to better understand the role of surface processes in its geologic history. Opportunity has recently completed its observations of Victoria crater, which is 750 m in diameter and exposes cliffs up to ~15 m high. The plains surrounding Victoria crater are ~10 m higher in elevation than those surrounding the previously explored Endurance crater, indicating that the Victoria crater exposes a stratigraphically higher section than does the Endurance crater; however, Victoria strata overlap in elevation with the rocks exposed at the Erebus crater. Victoria crater has a well-developed geomorphic pattern of promontories and embayments that define the crater wall and that reveal thick bedsets (3–7m) of large-scale cross-bedding, interpreted as fossil eolian dunes. Opportunity was able to drive into the crater at Duck Bay, located on the western margin of Victoria crater. Data from the Microscopic Imager and Panoramic Camera reveal details about the structures, textures, and depositional and diagenetic events that influenced the Victoria bedrock. A lithostratigraphic subdivision of bedrock units was enabled by the presence of a light-toned band that lines much of the upper rim of the crater. In ascending order, three stratigraphic units are named Lyell, Smith, and Steno; Smith is the light-toned band. In the Reference Section exposed along the ingress path at Duck Bay, Smith is interpreted to represent a zone of diagenetic recrystallization; however, its upper contact also coincides with a primary erosional surface. Elsewhere in the crater the diagenetic band crosscuts the physical stratigraphy. Correlation with strata present at nearby promontory Cape Verde indicates that there is an erosional surface at the base of the cliff face that corresponds to the erosional contact below Steno. The erosional contact at the base of Cape Verde lies at a lower elevation, but within the same plane as the contact below Steno, which indicates that the material above the erosional contact was built on significant depositional paleotopography. The eolian dune forms exposed in Duck Bay and Cape Verde, combined with the geometry of the erosional surface, indicate that these outcrops may be part of a larger-scale draa architecture. This insight is possible only as a result of the larger-scale exposures at Victoria crater, which significantly exceed the more limited exposures at the Erebus, Endurance, and Eagle craters.

In Vitro and In Vivo Measurement of Percutaneous Penetration of Low Molecular Weight Toxins of Military Interest

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-12-15

epidermal surfaces were exposed to ambient air (220C) during the entire length of the experiment. Penetration of [3H]PbTx-3 into skin layers and receptor...bathed by the receptor fluid and the epidermal surface was exposed to ambient conditions in an en- vironmental chamber. Temperature and relative...DMSO or water. The epidermal surfaces were exposed to ambient conditions in the environmental chamber. In order to determine if constituents leaching

Smoothing Polymer Surfaces by Solvent-Vapor Exposure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anthamatten, Mitchell

2003-03-01

Ultra-smooth polymer surfaces are of great importance in a large body of technical applications such as optical coatings, supermirrors, waveguides, paints, and fusion targets. We are investigating a simple approach to controlling surface roughness: by temporarily swelling the polymer with solvent molecules. As the solvent penetrates into the polymer, its viscosity is lowered, and surface tension forces drive surface flattening. To investigate sorption kinetics and surface-smoothing phenomena, a series of vapor-deposited poly(amic acid) films were exposed to dimethyl sulfoxide vapors. During solvent exposure, the surface topology was continuously monitored using light interference microscopy. The resulting power spectra indicate that high-frequency defects smooth faster than low-frequency defects. This frequency dependence was studied by depositing polymer films onto a series of 2D sinusoidal surfaces and performing smoothing experiments. Results show that the amplitudes of the sinusoidal surfaces decay exponentially with solvent exposure time, and the exponential decay constants are proportional to surface frequency. This work was performed under the auspices of the U.S. Department of Energy by the University of California Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory under contract No. W-7405-Eng-48.

Widespread surface meltwater drainage in Antarctica

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kingslake, J.; Ely, J.; Das, I.; Bell, R. E.

2016-12-01

Surface meltwater is thought to cause ice-shelf disintegration, which accelerates the contribution of ice sheets to sea-level rise. Antarctic surface melting is predicted to increase and trigger further ice-shelf disintegration during this century. These climate-change impacts could be modulated by an active hydrological network analogous to the one in operation in Greenland. Despite some observations of Antarctic surface and sub-surface hydrological systems, large-scale active surface drainage in Antarctica has rarely been studied. We use satellite imagery and aerial photography to reveal widespread active hydrology on the surface of the Antarctic Ice Sheet as far south as 85o and as high as 1800 m a.s.l., often near mountain peaks that protrude through the ice (nunataks) and relatively low-albedo `blue-ice areas'. Despite predominantly sub-zero regional air temperatures, as simulated by a regional climate model, Antarctic active drainage has persisted for decades, transporting water through surface streams and feeding vast melt ponds up to 80 km long. Drainage networks (the largest are over 100 km in length) form on flat ice shelves, steep outlet glaciers and ice-sheet flanks across the West and East Antarctica Ice Sheets. Motivated by the proximity of many drainage systems to low-albedo rock and blue-ice areas, we hypothesize a positive feedback between exposed-rock extent, BIA formation, melting and ice-sheet thinning. This feedback relies on drainage moving water long distances from areas near exposed rock, across the grounding line onto and across ice shelves - a process we observe, but had previously thought to be unlikely in Antarctica. This work highlights previously-overlooked processes, not captured by current regional-scale models, which may accelerate the retreat of the Antarctic Ice Sheet.

Adaptation and Study of AIDS Viruses in Animal and Cell Culture Systems

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-01-30

When irradiated,mice were exposed to 609+/-15 Roentgens (R) of gamma radiation at the body surface (determined by thermal luminescent dosimetry TLD ...vaccines and therapeutic agents. Therefore, it is imperative that common laboratory animals such as the rabbit and mouse be used as in vivo models for...infected with appropriate manipulation. It is clear that rabbits infected with HIV-1 offer much for HIV in vivo experimentation due to the large volume of

Nanoscale Compositional Relations in Lunar Rock Patina: Deciphering Sources for Patina Components on an Apollo 17 Station 6 Boulder

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Christoffersen, R.; Noble, S. K.; Keller, L. P.

2014-01-01

Space weathering on the Moon and other airless bodies modifies the surfaces of regolith grains as well as the space-exposed surfaces of larger rocks and boulders. As space weathering witness plates, rocks and boulders are distinguished from regolith grains based on their ability to persist as physically intact substrates over longer time scales before being disaggregated by impact processes. Because lunar surfaces, including exposed rocks, quickly develop an optically thick layer of patina, it is important to understand the compositional relationship between patinas and their underlying rock substrates, particularly to support remote-sensing of rocky lunar terrains. Based on analytical TEM techniques, supported by focused ion beam (FIB) cross-sectioning, we have begun to systematize the multi-layer microstructural complexity of patinas on rock samples with a range of space exposure histories. Our on-going work has particularly focused on lunar rock 76015, both because it has a long (approx. 22 my) exposure history, and because its surface was exposed to patina development approximately 1 m off the regolith surface on a boulder in the Apollo 17 Station 6 boulder field. Potential sources for the 76015 patina therefore include impact-melted and vaporized material derived from the local rock substrate, as well as from the mix of large boulders and regolith in the Station 6 area. While similar, there are differences in the mineralogy and chemistry of the rocks and regolith at Station 6. We were interested to see if these, or other sources, could be distinguished in the average composition, as well as the compositional nanostratigraphy of the 76015 patina. To date we have acquired a total of 9 TEM FIB cross-sections from the 76015 patina, giving us reasonable confidence of being able to arrive at an integrated average for the patina major element composition based on analytical TEM methods.

Tin Oxide Crystals Exposed by Low-Energy {110} Facets for Enhanced Electrochemical Heavy Metal Ions Sensing: X-ray Absorption Fine Structure Experimental Combined with Density-Functional Theory Evidence.

PubMed

Jin, Zhen; Yang, Meng; Chen, Shao-Hua; Liu, Jin-Huai; Li, Qun-Xiang; Huang, Xing-Jiu

2017-02-21

Herein, we revealed that the electrochemical behaviors on the detection of heavy metal ions (HMIs) would largely rely on the exposed facets of SnO 2 nanoparticles. Compared to the high-energy {221} facet, the low-energy {110} facet of SnO 2 possessed better electrochemical performance. The adsorption/desorption tests, density-functional theory (DFT) calculations, and X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) studies showed that the lower barrier energy of surface diffusion on {110} facet was critical for the superior electrochemical property, which was favorable for the ions diffusion on the electrode, and further leading the enhanced electrochemical performance. Through the combination of experiments and theoretical calculations, a reliable interpretation of the mechanism for electroanalysis of HMIs with nanomaterials exposed by different crystal facets has been provided. Furthermore, it provides a deep insight into understanding the key factor to improve the electrochemical performance for HMIs detection, so as to design high-performance electrochemical sensors.

Structure of C3b reveals conformational changes that underlie complement activity.

PubMed

Janssen, Bert J C; Christodoulidou, Agni; McCarthy, Andrew; Lambris, John D; Gros, Piet

2006-11-09

Resistance to infection and clearance of cell debris in mammals depend on the activation of the complement system, which is an important component of innate and adaptive immunity. Central to the complement system is the activated form of C3, called C3b, which attaches covalently to target surfaces to amplify complement response, label cells for phagocytosis and stimulate the adaptive immune response. C3b consists of 1,560 amino-acid residues and has 12 domains. It binds various proteins and receptors to effect its functions. However, it is not known how C3 changes its conformation into C3b and thereby exposes its many binding sites. Here we present the crystal structure at 4-A resolution of the activated complement protein C3b and describe the conformational rearrangements of the 12 domains that take place upon proteolytic activation. In the activated form the thioester is fully exposed for covalent attachment to target surfaces and is more than 85 A away from the buried site in native C3 (ref. 5). Marked domain rearrangements in the alpha-chain present an altered molecular surface, exposing hidden and cryptic sites that are consistent with known putative binding sites of factor B and several complement regulators. The structural data indicate that the large conformational changes in the proteolytic activation and regulation of C3 take place mainly in the first conversion step, from C3 to C3b. These insights are important for the development of strategies to treat immune disorders that involve complement-mediated inflammation.

Determining eyeball surface area directly exposed to the effects of external factors.

PubMed

Juliszewski, Tadeusz; Kadłuczka, Filip; Kiełbasa, Paweł

2016-01-01

This article discusses determining the surface area of eyeballs of men and women exposed to the direct effects of external factors in the working environment. For one eye, the mean surface is 172-182 mm(2). The determined surface area can be used in formulas for calculating the exposure of eyeballs to harmful chemical substances in workplace air.

Group-V atoms exchange due to exposure of InP surface to AsH3(+PH3) revealed by x-ray CTR scattering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tabuchi, M.; Yamada, N.; Fujibayashi, K.; Takeda, Y.; Kamei, H.

1996-05-01

We conducted x-ray crystal truncation rod (CTR) measurements using synchro-tron radiation to analyze the As atom distribution in InP to the order of 1 ML. The InP samples which were only exposed to AsH3(+PH3) and capped by InP were investigated to study the effect of the purge sequence. The purge sequence is unavoidable to grow heteroepitaxial layers by OMVPE and is considered to affect largely the structure of the interface. From the results of the measurement and the computer simulation, the distribution of P and As atoms of the order of 1 ML was discussed as functions of the exposing time. It was shown that the number of As atoms contained in the samples saturated when the AsH3-exposure time is longer than 10 s. Comparing the profiles of AsH3-exposed samples with that of (AsH3 + PH3)-exposed samples, it was found that the As distribution in the buffer layer was suppressed in (AsH3 + PH3)-exposed samples. In order to obtain the sharp interfaces, the AsH3-exposure time must be shorter than 0.5 s.

Reactor vessel seal service fixture

DOEpatents

Ritz, W.C.

1975-12-01

An apparatus for the preparation of exposed sealing surfaces along the open rim of a nuclear reactor vessel comprised of a motorized mechanism for traveling along the rim and simultaneously brushing the exposed surfaces is described.

Surface dynamics of amorphous polymers used for high-voltage insulators.

PubMed

Shemella, Philip T; Laino, Teodoro; Fritz, Oliver; Curioni, Alessandro

2011-11-24

Amorphous siloxane polymers are the backbone of high-voltage insulation materials. The natural hydrophobicity of their surface is a necessary property for avoiding leakage currents and dielectric breakdown. As these surfaces are exposed to the environment, electrical discharges or strong mechanical impact can temporarily destroy their water-repellent properties. After such events, however, a self-healing process sets in and restores the original hydrophobicity within some hours. In the present study, we investigate possible mechanisms of this restoration process. Using large-scale, all-atom molecular dynamics simulations, we show that molecules on the material surface have augmented motion that allows them to rearrange with a net polarization. The overall surface region has a net orientation that contributes to hydrophobicity, and charged groups that are placed at the surface migrate inward, away from the vacuum interface and into the bulk-like region. Our simulations provide insight into the mechanisms for hydrophobic self-recovery that repair material strength and functionality and suggest material compositions for future high-voltage insulators. © 2011 American Chemical Society

Meteorites at Meridiani Planum provide evidence for significant amounts of surface and near-surface water on early Mars

USGS Publications Warehouse

Fairen, A.G.; Dohm, J.M.; Baker, V.R.; Thompson, S.D.; Mahaney, W.C.; Herkenhoff, K. E.; Rodriguez, J.A.P.; Davila, A.F.; Schulze-Makuch, D.; El Maarry, M.R.; Uceda, E.R.; Amils, R.; Miyamoto, H.; Kim, K.J.; Anderson, R.C.; McKay, C.P.

2011-01-01

Six large iron meteorites have been discovered in the Meridiani Planum region of Mars by the Mars Exploration Rover Opportunity in a nearly 25km-long traverse. Herein, we review and synthesize the available data to propose that the discovery and characteristics of the six meteorites could be explained as the result of their impact into a soft and wet surface, sometime during the Noachian or the Hesperian, subsequently to be exposed at the Martian surface through differential erosion. As recorded by its sediments and chemical deposits, Meridiani has been interpreted to have undergone a watery past, including a shallow sea, a playa, an environment of fluctuating ground water, and/or an icy landscape. Meteorites could have been encased upon impact and/or subsequently buried, and kept underground for a long time, shielded from the atmosphere. The meteorites apparently underwent significant chemical weathering due to aqueous alteration, as indicated by cavernous features that suggest differential acidic corrosion removing less resistant material and softer inclusions. During the Amazonian, the almost complete disappearance of surface water and desiccation of the landscape, followed by induration of the sediments and subsequent differential erosion and degradation of Meridiani sediments, including at least 10-80m of deflation in the last 3-3.5Gy, would have exposed the buried meteorites. We conclude that the iron meteorites support the hypothesis that Mars once had a denser atmosphere and considerable amounts of water and/or water ice at and/or near the surface. ?? The Meteoritical Society, 2011.

Meteorites at Meridiani Planum provide evidence for significant amounts of surface and near-surface water on early Mars

USGS Publications Warehouse

Fairen, Alberto G.; Dohm, James M.; Baker, Victor R.; Thompson, Shane D.; Mahaney, William C.; Herkenhoff, Kenneth E.; Rodriguez, J. Alexis P.; Davila, Alfonso F.; Schulze-Makuch, Dirk; El Maarry, M. Ramy; Uceda, Esther R.; Amils, Ricardo; Miyamoto, Hirdy; Kim, Kyeong J.; Anderson, Robert C.; McKay, Christopher P.

2011-01-01

Six large iron meteorites have been discovered in the Meridiani Planum region of Mars by the Mars Exploration Rover Opportunity in a nearly 25 km-long traverse. Herein, we review and synthesize the available data to propose that the discovery and characteristics of the six meteorites could be explained as the result of their impact into a soft and wet surface, sometime during the Noachian or the Hesperian, subsequently to be exposed at the Martian surface through differential erosion. As recorded by its sediments and chemical deposits, Meridiani has been interpreted to have undergone a watery past, including a shallow sea, a playa, an environment of fluctuating ground water, and/or an icy landscape. Meteorites could have been encased upon impact and/or subsequently buried, and kept underground for a long time, shielded from the atmosphere. The meteorites apparently underwent significant chemical weathering due to aqueous alteration, as indicated by cavernous features that suggest differential acidic corrosion removing less resistant material and softer inclusions. During the Amazonian, the almost complete disappearance of surface water and desiccation of the landscape, followed by induration of the sediments and subsequent differential erosion and degradation of Meridiani sediments, including at least 10–80 m of deflation in the last 3–3.5 Gy, would have exposed the buried meteorites. We conclude that the iron meteorites support the hypothesis that Mars once had a denser atmosphere and considerable amounts of water and/or water ice at and/or near the surface.

Stability of hydrated minerals on Mars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cloutis, Edward A.; Craig, Michael A.; Mustard, John F.; Kruzelecky, Roman V.; Jamroz, Wes R.; Scott, Alan; Bish, David L.; Poulet, François; Bibring, Jean-Pierre; King, Penelope L.

2007-10-01

The validity of recent identification of various hydrated minerals (kieserite, gypsum, hexahydrite, nontronite, chamosite, and montmorillonite) on Mars was assessed by exposing these minerals to simulated Martian surface conditions of atmospheric composition and pressure, temperature, and ultraviolet light irradiation. When exposed to such conditions the hydrated minerals exhibit in general, greater losses of interlayer H2O than structural OH. Minerals such as gypsum that contain structural H2O are more resistant to H2O loss than phyllosilicates. The partial loss of OH in some of the phyllosilicates is not accompanied by a measurable and systematic change in the wavelength position or intensity of metal-OH absorption bands. The characteristic absorption features that allow for identification of these minerals on Mars may be reduced in intensity, but are nevertheless largely preserved.

A bio-impedance probe to assess liver steatosis during transplant surgery.

PubMed

Smith, Penny Probert; You, Fusheng; Vogel, Thomas; Silva, Michael

2011-01-01

This work addresses the design of a bioimpedance probe to assess steatosis on the exposed liver in the donor during liver transplant surgery. Whereas typically bioimpedance uses needle probes to avoid surface effects, for clinical reasons a non-penetrative probe is required. In addition the need to ensure that the measurement is representative of the bulk tissue suggests a larger probe than is normally used to ensure a sufficiently large measurement volume. Using a simple model, simulations and tests on bovine liver, this paper investigates the relationship between probe dimensions and depth of measurement penetration and investigates the accuracy which might be expected in a configuration suitable for use in the operating theatre on intact but exposed livers. A probe using ECG electrodes is proposed and investigated.

A simplified test for adhesive behavior in wood sections exposed to fire

Treesearch

E. L. Schaffer

1968-01-01

A relatively simple test procedure was developed to evaluate the behavior of various adhesives near fire-exposed surfaces in laminated constructions. A number of sections cut from laminated blocks were exposed to fire on one surface. After this exposure, the sections were transversely cut, and the gluelines were examined for separation depth. In addition, the cool...

Space Weathering of Lunar Rocks

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Noble, S. K.; Keller, L. P.; Christoffersen, R.; Rahman, Z.

2012-01-01

All materials exposed at the lunar surface undergo space weathering processes. On the Moon, boulders make up only a small percentage of the exposed surface, and areas where such rocks are exposed, like central peaks, are often among the least space weathered regions identified from remote sensing data. Yet space weathered surfaces (patina) are relatively common on returned rock samples, some of which directly sample the surface of larger boulders. Because, as witness plates to lunar space weathering, rocks and boulders experience longer exposure times compared to lunar soil grains, they allow us to develop a deeper perspective on the relative importance of various weathering processes as a function of time.

Limitations of using a thermal imager for snow pit temperatures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schirmer, M.; Jamieson, B.

2013-10-01

Driven by temperature gradients, kinetic snow metamorphism is important for avalanche formation. Even when gradients appear to be insufficient for kinetic metamorphism, based on temperatures measured 10 cm apart, faceting close to a~crust can still be observed. Recent studies that visualized small scale (< 10 cm) thermal structures in a profile of snow layers with an infrared (IR) camera produced interesting results. The studies found melt-freeze crusts to be warmer or cooler than the surrounding snow depending on the large scale gradient direction. However, an important assumption within the studies was that a thermal photo of a freshly exposed snow pit was similar enough to the internal temperature of the snow. In this study, we tested this assumption by recording thermal videos during the exposure of the snow pit wall. In the first minute, the results showed increasing gradients with time, both at melt-freeze crusts and at artificial surface structures such as shovel scours. Cutting through a crust with a cutting blade or a shovel produced small concavities (holes) even when the objective was to cut a planar surface. Our findings suggest there is a surface structure dependency of the thermal image, which is only observed at times with large temperature differences between air and snow. We were able to reproduce the hot-crust/cold-crust phenomenon and relate it entirely to surface structure in a temperature-controlled cold laboratory. Concave areas cooled or warmed slower compared with convex areas (bumps) when applying temperature differences between snow and air. This can be explained by increased radiative transfer or convection by air at convex areas. Thermal videos suggest that such processes influence the snow temperature within seconds. Our findings show the limitations of the use of a thermal camera for measuring pit-wall temperatures, particularly in scenarios where large gradients exist between air and snow and the interaction of snow pit and atmospheric temperatures are enhanced. At crusts or other heterogeneities, we were unable to create a sufficiently homogenous snow pit surface and non-internal gradients appeared at the exposed surface. The immediate adjustment of snow pit temperature as it reacts with the atmosphere complicates the capture of the internal thermal structure of a snowpack even with thermal videos. Instead, the shown structural dependency of the IR signal may be used to detect structural changes of snow caused by kinetic metamorphism. The IR signal can also be used to measure near surface temperatures in a homogenous new snow layer.

Electrode assembly for use in a solid polymer electrolyte fuel cell

DOEpatents

Raistrick, Ian D.

1989-01-01

A gas reaction fuel cell may be provided with a solid polymer electrolyte membrane. Porous gas diffusion electrodes are formed of carbon particles supporting a catalyst which is effective to enhance the gas reactions. The carbon particles define interstitial spaces exposing the catalyst on a large surface area of the carbon particles. A proton conducting material, such as a perfluorocarbon copolymer or ruthenium dioxide contacts the surface areas of the carbon particles adjacent the interstitial spaces. The proton conducting material enables protons produced by the gas reactions adjacent the supported catalyst to have a conductive path with the electrolyte membrane. The carbon particles provide a conductive path for electrons. A suitable electrode may be formed by dispersing a solution containing a proton conducting material over the surface of the electrode in a manner effective to coat carbon surfaces adjacent the interstitial spaces without impeding gas flow into the interstitial spaces.

Molecular dynamics and Monte Carlo simulations resolve apparent diffusion rate differences for proteins confined in nanochannels

DOE PAGES

Tringe, J. W.; Ileri, N.; Levie, H. W.; ...

2015-08-01

We use Molecular Dynamics and Monte Carlo simulations to examine molecular transport phenomena in nanochannels, explaining four orders of magnitude difference in wheat germ agglutinin (WGA) protein diffusion rates observed by fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS) and by direct imaging of fluorescently-labeled proteins. We first use the ESPResSo Molecular Dynamics code to estimate the surface transport distance for neutral and charged proteins. We then employ a Monte Carlo model to calculate the paths of protein molecules on surfaces and in the bulk liquid transport medium. Our results show that the transport characteristics depend strongly on the degree of molecular surface coverage.more » Atomic force microscope characterization of surfaces exposed to WGA proteins for 1000 s show large protein aggregates consistent with the predicted coverage. These calculations and experiments provide useful insight into the details of molecular motion in confined geometries.« less

Effects of High-Temperature Exposures on the Fatigue Life of Superalloy Udimet(Registered Trademark) 720

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gabb, Timothy P.; Telesman, Jack; Kantzos, Peter T.; Sweeney, Joseph W.; Browning, Paul F.

2002-01-01

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of extended exposures on the near-surface fatigue resistance of a disk superalloy. Powder metallurgy processed, supersolvus heat-treated Udimet 720 (U720) fatigue specimens were exposed in air at temperatures from 650 to 705 C for 100 hr to over 1000 hr. They were then tested using conventional fatigue tests at 650 C to determine the effects of exposure on fatigue resistance. The exposures reduced life by up to 70% and increased the scatter in life, compared to unexposed levels. Fractographic evaluations indicated the failure mode was shifted by the exposures from internal to surface crack initiations. The increased scatter in life was related to the competition between internal crack initiations at inclusions or large grains producing longer lives, and surface crack initiations at an environmentally affected surface layer producing shorter lives.

Risk characterization of methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) in tap water.

PubMed

Stern, B R; Tardiff, R G

1997-12-01

Methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) can enter surface water and groundwater through wet atmospheric deposition or as a result of fuel leaks and spills. About 30% of the U.S. population lives in areas where MTBE is in regular use. Ninety-five percent of this population is unlikely to be exposed to MTBE in tap water at concentrations exceeding 2 ppb, and most will be exposed to concentrations that are much lower and may be zero. About 5% of this population may be exposed to higher levels of MTBE in tap water, resulting from fuel tank leaks and spills into surface or groundwater used for potable water supplies. This paper describes the concentration ranges found and anticipated in surface and groundwater, and estimates the distribution of doses experienced by humans using water containing MTBE to drink, prepare food, and shower/bathe. The toxic properties (including potency) of MTBE when ingested, inhaled, and in contact with the skin are summarized. Using a range of human toxic potency values derived from animal studies, margins of exposure (MOE) associated with alternative chronic exposure scenarios are estimated to range from 1700 to 140,000. Maximum concentrations of MTBE in tap water anticipated not to cause adverse health effects are determined to range from 700 to 14,000 ppb. The results of this analysis demonstrate that no health risks are likely to be associated with chronic and subchronic human exposures to MTBE in tap water. Although some individuals may be exposed to very high concentrations of MTBE in tap water immediately following a localized spill, these exposures are likely to be brief in duration due to large-scale dilution and rapid volatilization of MTBE, the institution of emergency response and remediation measures to minimize human exposures, and the low taste and odor thresholds of MTBE which ensure that its presence in tap water is readily detected at concentrations well below the threshold for human injury.

Tuning the morphology of silver nanostructures photochemically coated on glass substrates: an effective approach to large-scale functional surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zaier, Mohamed; Vidal, Loic; Hajjar-Garreau, Samar; Bubendorff, Jean-Luc; Balan, Lavinia

2017-03-01

This paper reports on a simple and environmentally friendly photochemical process capable of generating nano-layers (8-22 nm) of silver nanostructures directly onto glass surfaces. This approach opens the way to large-scale functionalized surfaces with plasmonic properties through a single light-induced processing. Thus, Ag nanostructures top-coated were obtained through photo-reduction, at room temperature, of a photosensitive formulation containing a metal precursor, free from extra toxic stabilizers or reducing agents. The reactive formulation was confined between two glass slides and exposed to a continuous near-UV source. In this way, stable silver nano-layers can be generated directly on the substrate with a very good control of the morphology of as-synthesized nanostructures that allows tailoring the optical properties of the coated layers. The position and width of the corresponding surface plasmon resonance bands can be adjusted over a broad spectral window. By extension, this low-cost and easy-to-apply process can also be used to coat ultra thin layers of metal nanostructures on a variety of substrates. The possibility of controlling of nanostructures shape should achieve valuable developments in many fields, as diverse as plasmonics, surface enhanced Raman scattering, nano-electronic circuitry, or medical devices.

A survey of airborne and skin exposures to chemicals in footwear and equipment factories in Thailand.

PubMed

Todd, Lori A; Mottus, Kathleen; Mihlan, Gary J

2008-03-01

This research reports on a pilot industrial hygiene study that was performed at four footwear factories and two equipment factories in Thailand. Workers in these factories were exposed through inhalation and dermal contact to a large number of organic vapors from solvents and cements that were hand applied. In addition, these workers were exposed to highly toxic isocyanates primarily through the dermal route. A total of 286 personal air samples were obtained at the four footwear factories using organic vapor monitors; individual job tasks were monitored using a real-time MIRAN Spectrometer. A total of 64 surface, tool, or hand samples were monitored for isocyanates using surface contamination detectors. Real-time measurements were also obtained for organic vapors in two equipment factories. From 8% to 21% of the workers sampled in each footwear factory were overexposed to mixtures of chemicals from solvents and cements. Up to 100% of the workers performing specific job tasks were overexposed to mixtures of chemicals. From 39% to 69% of the surface samples were positive for unreacted isocyanates. Many of the real-time measurements obtained in the equipment factories exceeded occupational exposure limits. Personal protective equipment and engineering controls were inadequate in all of the factories.

The Exposed Proteomes of Brachyspira hyodysenteriae and B. pilosicoli

PubMed Central

Casas, Vanessa; Vadillo, Santiago; San Juan, Carlos; Carrascal, Montserrat; Abian, Joaquin

2016-01-01

Brachyspira hyodysenteriae and Brachyspira pilosicoli are well-known intestinal pathogens in pigs. B. hyodysenteriae is the causative agent of swine dysentery, a disease with an important impact on pig production while B. pilosicoli is responsible of a milder diarrheal disease in these animals, porcine intestinal spirochetosis. Recent sequencing projects have provided information for the genome of these species facilitating the search of vaccine candidates using reverse vaccinology approaches. However, practically no experimental evidence exists of the actual gene products being expressed and of those proteins exposed on the cell surface or released to the cell media. Using a cell-shaving strategy and a shotgun proteomic approach we carried out a large-scale characterization of the exposed proteins on the bacterial surface in these species as well as of peptides and proteins in the extracellular medium. The study included three strains of B. hyodysenteriae and two strains of B. pilosicoli and involved 148 LC-MS/MS runs on a high resolution Orbitrap instrument. Overall, we provided evidence for more than 29,000 different peptides pointing to 1625 and 1338 different proteins in B. hyodysenteriae and B. pilosicoli, respectively. Many of the most abundant proteins detected corresponded to described virulence factors and vaccine candidates. The level of expression of these proteins, however, was different among species and strains, stressing the value of determining actual gene product levels as a complement of genomic-based approaches for vaccine design. PMID:27493641

Experimental results on plasma interactions with large surfaces at high voltages

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Grier, N. T.

1980-01-01

Multikilowatt power levels for future payloads can be more efficiently generated using solar arrays operating in the kilovolt range. This implies that large areas of the array at high operating voltages will be exposed to the space plasma environment. The resulting interactions of these high voltage surfaces with space plasma environments can seriously impact the performance of the satellite system. The plasma-surface interaction phenomena were studied in tests performed in two separate vacuum chambers, a 4.6 m diameter by 19.2 long chamber and a 20 m diameter by 27.4 m long chamber. The generated plasma density was approximately 1x10 to the 4th power/cu cm. Ten solar array panels, each with areas of 1400 sq cm were used in the tests. Nine of the solar panels were tested as a composite unit in the form of a 3x3 solar panel matrix. The results from all the tests confirmed small sample tests results: insulators were found to enhance the plasma coupling current for high positive bias and arcing was found to occur at high negative bias.

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

Lorenz, Matthias; Ovchinnikova, Olga S; Van Berkel, Gary J

RATIONALE: Laser ablation provides for the possibility of sampling a large variety of surfaces with high spatial resolution. This type of sampling when employed in conjunction with liquid capture followed by nanoelectrospray ionization provides the opportunity for sensitive and prolonged interrogation of samples by mass spectrometry as well as the ability to analyze surfaces not amenable to direct liquid extraction. METHODS: A fully automated, reflection geometry, laser ablation liquid capture spot sampling system was achieved by incorporating appropriate laser fiber optics and a focusing lens into a commercially available, liquid extraction surface analysis (LESA ) ready Advion TriVersa NanoMate system.more » RESULTS: Under optimized conditions about 10% of laser ablated material could be captured in a droplet positioned vertically over the ablation region using the NanoMate robot controlled pipette. The sampling spot size area with this laser ablation liquid capture surface analysis (LA/LCSA) mode of operation (typically about 120 m x 160 m) was approximately 50 times smaller than that achievable by direct liquid extraction using LESA (ca. 1 mm diameter liquid extraction spot). The set-up was successfully applied for the analysis of ink on glass and paper as well as the endogenous components in Alstroemeria Yellow King flower petals. In a second mode of operation with a comparable sampling spot size, termed laser ablation/LESA , the laser system was used to drill through, penetrate, or otherwise expose material beneath a solvent resistant surface. Once drilled, LESA was effective in sampling soluble material exposed at that location on the surface. CONCLUSIONS: Incorporating the capability for different laser ablation liquid capture spot sampling modes of operation into a LESA ready Advion TriVersa NanoMate enhanced the spot sampling spatial resolution of this device and broadened the surface types amenable to analysis to include absorbent and solvent resistant materials.« less

Global distribution of bedrock exposures on Mars using THEMIS high-resolution thermal inertia

USGS Publications Warehouse

Edwards, C.S.; Bandfield, J.L.; Christensen, P.R.; Fergason, R.L.

2009-01-01

We investigate high thermal inertia surfaces using the Mars Odyssey Thermal Emission Imaging System (THEMIS) nighttime temperature images (100 m/pixel spatial sampling). For this study, we interpret any pixel in a THEMIS image with a thermal inertia over 1200 J m-2 K-1 s-1/2 as "bedrock" which represents either in situ rock exposures or rock-dominated surfaces. Three distinct morphologies, ranked from most to least common, are associated with these high thermal inertia surfaces: (1) valley and crater walls associated with mass wasting and high surface slope angles; (2) floors of craters with diameters >25 km and containing melt or volcanics associated with larger, high-energy impacts; and (3) intercrater surfaces with compositions significantly more mafic than the surrounding regolith. In general, bedrock instances on Mars occur as small exposures (less than several square kilometers) situated in lower-albedo (<0.18), moderate to high thermal inertia (>350 J m-2 K-1 s-1/2), and relatively dust-free (dust cover index <0.95) regions; however, there are instances that do not follow these generalizations. Most instances are concentrated in the southern highlands, with very few located at high latitudes (poleward of 45oN and 58oS), suggesting enhanced mechanical breakdown probably associated with permafrost. Overall, Mars has very little exposed bedrock with only 960 instances identified from 75oS to 75oN with likely <3500 km2 exposed, representing???1% of the total surface area. These data indicate that Mars has likely undergone large-scale surface processing and reworking, both chemically and mechanically, either destroying or masking a majority of the bedrock exposures on the planet. Copyright 2009 by the American Geophysical Union.

Toxic effects of multi-walled carbon nanotubes on bivalves: Comparison between functionalized and nonfunctionalized nanoparticles.

PubMed

De Marchi, Lucia; Neto, Victor; Pretti, Carlo; Figueira, Etelvina; Chiellini, Federica; Morelli, Andrea; Soares, Amadeu M V M; Freitas, Rosa

2018-05-01

Despite of the large array of available carbon nanotube (CNT) configurations that allow different industrial and scientific applications of these nanoparticles, their impacts on aquatic organisms, especially on invertebrate species, are still limited. To our knowledge, no information is available on how surface chemistry alteration (functionalization) of CNTs may impact the toxicity of these NPs to bivalve species after a chronic exposure. For this reason, the impacts induced by chronic exposure (28days) to unfunctionalized MWCNTs (Nf-MWCNTs) in comparison with functionalized MWCNTs (f-MWCNTs), were evaluated in R. philippinarum, by measuring alterations induced in clams' oxidative status, neurotoxicity and metabolic capacity. The results obtained revealed that exposure to both MWCNT materials altered energy-related responses, with higher metabolic capacity and lower glycogen, protein and lipid concentrations in clams exposed to these CNTs. Moreover, R. philippinarum exposed to Nf-MWCNTs and f-MWCNTs showed oxidative stress expressed in higher lipid peroxidation and lower ratio between reduced and oxidized glutathione, despite the activation of defense mechanisms (superoxide-dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione S-transferases) in exposed clams. Additionally, neurotoxicity was observed by inhibition of Cholinesterases activity in organisms exposed to both MWCNTs. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Chemical stabilization of graphite surfaces

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

Bistrika, Alexander A.; Lerner, Michael M.

Embodiments of a device, or a component of a device, including a stabilized graphite surface, methods of stabilizing graphite surfaces, and uses for the devices or components are disclosed. The device or component includes a surface comprising graphite, and a plurality of haloaryl ions and/or haloalkyl ions bound to at least a portion of the graphite. The ions may be perhaloaryl ions and/or perhaloalkyl ions. In certain embodiments, the ions are perfluorobenzenesulfonate anions. Embodiments of the device or component including stabilized graphite surfaces may maintain a steady-state oxidation or reduction surface current density after being exposed to continuous oxidation conditionsmore » for a period of at least 1-100 hours. The device or component is prepared by exposing a graphite-containing surface to an acidic aqueous solution of the ions under oxidizing conditions. The device or component can be exposed in situ to the solution.« less

Design of equipment for lunar dust removal

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Belden, Lacy; Cowan, Kevin; Kleespies, Hank; Ratliff, Ryan; Shah, Oniell; Shelburne, Kevin

1991-01-01

NASA has a long range goal of constructing a fully equipped, manned lunar base on the near side of the moon by the year 2015. During the Apollo Missions, lunar dust coated and fouled equipment surfaces and mechanisms exposed to the lunar environment. In addition, the atmosphere and internal surfaces of the lunar excursion module were contaminated by lunar dust which was brought in on articles passed through the airlock. Consequently, the need exists for device or appliance to remove lunar dust from surfaces of material objects used outside of the proposed lunar habitat. Additionally, several concepts were investigated for preventing the accumulation of lunar dust on mechanisms and finished surfaces. The character of the dust and the lunar environment present unique challenges for the removal of contamination from exposed surfaces. In addition to a study of lunar dust adhesion properties, the project examines the use of various energy domains for removing the dust from exposed surfaces. Also, prevention alternatives are examined for systems exposed to lunar dust. A concept utilizing a pressurized gas is presented for dust removal outside of an atmospherically controlled environment. The concept consists of a small astronaut/robotic compatible device which removes dust from contaminated surfaces by a small burst of gas.

Urban Soil: Assessing Ground Cover Impact on Surface Temperature and Thermal Comfort.

PubMed

Brandani, Giada; Napoli, Marco; Massetti, Luciano; Petralli, Martina; Orlandini, Simone

2016-01-01

The urban population growth, together with the contemporary deindustrialization of metropolitan areas, has resulted in a large amount of available land with new possible uses. It is well known that urban green areas provide several benefits in the surrounding environment, such as the improvement of thermal comfort conditions for the population during summer heat waves. The purpose of this study is to provide useful information on thermal regimes of urban soils to urban planners to be used during an urban transformation to mitigate surface temperatures and improve human thermal comfort. Field measurements of solar radiation, surface temperature (), air temperature (), relative humidity, and wind speed were collected on four types of urban soils and pavements in the city of Florence during summer 2014. Analysis of days under calm, clear-sky condition is reported. During daytime, sun-to-shadow differences for , apparent temperature index (ATI), and were significantly positive for all surfaces. Conversely, during nighttime, differences among all surfaces were significantly negative, whereas ATI showed significantly positive differences. Moreover, was significantly negative for grass and gravel. Relative to the shaded surfaces, was higher on white gravel and grass than gray sandstone and asphalt during nighttime, whereas gray sandstone was always the warmest surface during daytime. Conversely, no differences were found during nighttime for ATI and measured over surfaces that were exposed to sun during the day, whereas showed higher values on gravel than grass and asphalt during nighttime. An exposed surface warms less if its albedo is high, leading to a significant reduction of during daytime. These results underline the importance of considering the effects of surface characteristics on surface temperature and thermal comfort. This would be fundamental for addressing urban environment issues toward the heat island mitigation considering also the impact of urban renovation on microclimate. Copyright © by the American Society of Agronomy, Crop Science Society of America, and Soil Science Society of America, Inc.

Power management and control for space systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Finke, R. C.; Myers, I. T.; Terdan, F. F.; Stevens, N. J.

1978-01-01

Power management and control technology for the large, high-power spacecraft of the 1980's is discussed. Systems weight optimization that indicate a need for higher bus voltages are shown. Environmental interactions that are practical limits for the maximum potential on exposed surfaces are shown. A dual-voltage system is proposed that would provide the weight savings of a high-voltage distribution system and take into account the potential environmental interactions. The technology development of new components and circuits is also discussed.

DECONTAMINATION OF NEUTRON-IRRADIATED REACTOR FUEL

DOEpatents

Buyers, A.G.; Rosen, F.D.; Motta, E.E.

1959-12-22

A pyrometallurgical method of decontaminating neutronirradiated reactor fuel is presented. In accordance with the invention, neutron-irradiated reactor fuel may be decontaminated by countercurrently contacting the fuel with a bed of alkali and alkaine fluorides under an inert gas atmosphere and inductively melting the fuel and tracking the resulting descending molten fuel with induction heating as it passes through the bed. By this method, a large, continually fresh surface of salt is exposed to the descending molten fuel which enhances the efficiency of the scrubbing operation.

Interaction of Al with O2 exposed Mo2BC

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bolvardi, Hamid; Music, Denis; Schneider, Jochen M.

2015-03-01

A Mo2BC(0 4 0) surface was exposed to O2. The gas interaction was investigated using ab initio molecular dynamics and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) of air exposed surfaces. The calculations suggest that the most dominating physical mechanism is dissociative O2 adsorption whereby Mosbnd O, Osbnd Mosbnd O and Mo2sbnd Csbnd O bond formation is observed. To validate these results, Mo2BC thin films were synthesized utilizing high power pulsed magnetron sputtering and air exposed surfaces were probed by XPS. MoO2 and MoO3 bond formation is observed and is consistent with here obtained ab initio data. Additionally, the interfacial interactions of O2 exposed Mo2BC(0 4 0) surface with an Al nonamer is studied with ab initio molecular dynamics to describe on the atomic scale the interaction between this surface and Al to mimic the interface present during cold forming processes of Al based alloys. The Al nonamer was disrupted and Al forms chemical bonds with oxygen contained in the O2 exposed Mo2BC(0 4 0) surface. Based on the comparison of here calculated adsorption energy with literature data, Alsbnd Al bonds are shown to be significantly weaker than the Alsbnd O bonds formed across the interface. Hence, Alsbnd Al bond rupture is expected for a mechanically loaded interface. Therefore the adhesion of a residual Al on the native oxide layer is predicted. This is consistent with experimental observations. The data presented here may also be relevant for other oxygen containing surfaces in a contact with Al or Al based alloys for example during forming operations.

ESCA studies of lunar surface chemistry. [Electron Spectroscopic Chemical Analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Housley, R. M.; Grant, R. W.

1975-01-01

We have used ESCA to compare the composition of the natural exterior surface in lunar fines samples with that of the interior surface exposed by crushing. Even though the exterior surfaces have been exposed to air a significant amount of Fe in them is reduced. In addition, Ca, Al, and Mg are strongly depleted in exterior surfaces relative to Si, Ti, and Fe. Preferential sputtering by the solar wind is a possible explanation for these changes.

Adsorption of Phthalates on Impervious Indoor Surfaces.

PubMed

Wu, Yaoxing; Eichler, Clara M A; Leng, Weinan; Cox, Steven S; Marr, Linsey C; Little, John C

2017-03-07

Sorption of semivolatile organic compounds (SVOCs) onto interior surfaces, often referred to as the "sink effect", and their subsequent re-emission significantly affect the fate and transport of indoor SVOCs and the resulting human exposure. Unfortunately, experimental challenges and the large number of SVOC/surface combinations have impeded progress in understanding sorption of SVOCs on indoor surfaces. An experimental approach based on a diffusion model was thus developed to determine the surface/air partition coefficient K of di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) on typical impervious surfaces including aluminum, steel, glass, and acrylic. The results indicate that surface roughness plays an important role in the adsorption process. Although larger data sets are needed, the ability to predict K could be greatly improved by establishing the nature of the relationship between surface roughness and K for clean indoor surfaces. Furthermore, different surfaces exhibit nearly identical K values after being exposed to kitchen grime with values that are close to those reported for the octanol/air partition coefficient. This strongly supports the idea that interactions between gas-phase DEHP and soiled surfaces have been reduced to interactions with an organic film. Collectively, the results provide an improved understanding of equilibrium partitioning of SVOCs on impervious surfaces.

Contaminations of inner surface of magnesium fluoride windows in the `Expose-R' experiment on the International Space Station

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Skurat, V. E.

2017-10-01

A series of experiments was carried out previously on board of the International Space Station in `EXPOSE-R', a multi-user expose facility, provided by European Space Agency attached to the external surface of the Russian Segment. In one experiment, spores of microorganisms and species of higher plant seeds, in heat-sealed polymer bags were irradiated by solar radiation passed through MgF2 windows in a high space vacuum. After sample exposure, it was found that in many cases the inner surfaces of windows were contaminated. Analysis of the contamination revealed the presence of chemical groups CH2, CH3, NH, OH, C═O, Si-CH3 (Demets et al. in 2015). Their presence in deposits was explained by photofixation of gaseous precursors - some of the vapours of glues and additives in polymeric materials in the core facility of `Expose-R'. Carbon-, oxygen- and silicon-containing groups may be deposited from outer intrinsic atmosphere. This atmosphere is connected with sample compartments and core facility. However, the presence of NH groups on inner surfaces of windows was not expected. This paper shows that the process responsible for carbon-, nitrogen- and oxygen-containing group formation can be a photopolymerization of caprolactam, which is released from the outer Nylon 6 layer of polymer bags under Solar vacuum ultraviolet radiation.

Summary of Blast Shield and Material Testing for Development of Solid Debris Collection at the National Ignition Facility (NIF)

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

Shaughnessy, D A; Gostic, J M; Moody, K J

2011-11-21

The ability to collect solid debris from the target chamber following a NIF shot has application for both capsule diagnostics, particularly for fuel-ablator mix, and measuring cross sections relevant to the Stockpile Stewardship program and nuclear astrophysics. Simulations have shown that doping the capsule with up to 10{sup 15} atoms of an impurity not otherwise found in the capsule does not affect its performance. The dopant is an element that will undergo nuclear activations during the NIF implosion, forming radioactive species that can be collected and measured after extraction from the target chamber. For diagnostics, deuteron or alpha induced reactionsmore » can be used to probe the fuel-ablator mix. For measuring neutron cross sections, the dopant should be something that is sensitive to the 14 MeV neutrons produced through the fusion of deuterium and tritium. Developing the collector is a challenge due to the extreme environment of the NIF chamber. The collector surface is exposed to a large photon flux from x-rays and unconverted laser light before it is exposed to a debris wind that is formed from vaporized material from the target chamber center. The photons will ablate the collector surface to some extent, possibly impeding the debris from reaching the collector and sticking. In addition, the collector itself must be mechanically strong enough to withstand the large amount of energy it will be exposed to, and it should be something that will be easy to count and chemically process. In order to select the best material for the collector, a variety of different metals have been tested in the NIF chamber. They were exposed to high-energy laser shots in order to evaluate their postshot surface characterization, morphology, degree of melt, and their ability to retain debris from the chamber center. The first set of samples consisted of 1 mm thick pieces of aluminum that had been fielded in the chamber as blast shields protecting the neutron activation diagnostic. Ten of these pieces were fielded at the equator and one was fielded on the pole. The shields were analyzed using a combination of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), x-ray fluorescence (XRF), neutron activation analysis (NAA) and chemical leaching followed by mass spectrometry. On each shield, gold debris originating from the gold hohlraum was observed, as well as large quantities of debris that were present in the center of the target chamber at the time of the shot (i.e., stainless steel, indium, copper, etc.) Debris was visible in the SEM as large blobs or splats of material that had encountered the surface of the aluminum and stuck. The aluminum itself had obviously melted and condensed, and some of the large debris splats arrived after the surface had already hardened. Melt depth was determined by cross sectioning the pieces and measuring the melted surface layers via SEM. After the SEM analysis was completed, the pieces were sent for NAA at the USGS reactor and were analyzed by U. Greife at the Colorado School of Mines. The NAA showed that the majority of gold mass present on the shields was not in the form of large blobs and splats, but was present as small particulates that had most likely formed as condensed vapor. Further analysis showed that the gold was entrained in the melted aluminum surface layers and did not extend down into the bulk of the aluminum. Once the gold mass was accounted for from the NAA, it was determined that the aluminum fielded at the equator was collecting a fraction of the total gold hohlraum mass equivalent to 120% {+-} 10% of the solid angle subtended by the shield. The attached presentation has more information on the results of the aluminum blast shield analysis. In addition to the information given in the presentation, the surfaces of the shields have been chemically leached and submitted for mass spectrometric analysis. The results from that analysis are expected to arrive after the due date of this report and will be written up at a later time. Based on the results of the aluminum blast shield analysis, it was determined that additional materials needed to be tested as potential collectors in the NIF chamber. 1-2 mm thick pieces of tantalum, niobium, vanadium, silver, titanium, molybdenum, and graphite foil were fielded in the Wedge Range Filter (WRF) mount at a distance of 50 cm from target chamber center during the shock timing campaign. The pieces were subsequently removed and analyzed in a similar fashion to the aluminum shields. As of this writing, the pieces are still under analysis, but initial results indicate that gold debris was collected on the various materials. Currently, the pieces are being cross-sectioned so that the melt depths of each material can be compared. In addition, NAA and/or mass spectrometry will be performed in order to determine the total gold mass that was collected on each surface.« less

Functional cell-surface display of a lipase-specific chaperone.

PubMed

Wilhelm, Susanne; Rosenau, Frank; Becker, Stefan; Buest, Sebastian; Hausmann, Sascha; Kolmar, Harald; Jaeger, Karl-Erich

2007-01-02

Lipases are important enzymes in biotechnology. Extracellular bacterial lipases from Pseudomonads and related species require the assistance of specific chaperones, designated "Lif" proteins (lipase specific foldases). Lifs, a unique family of steric chaperones, are anchored to the periplasmic side of the inner membrane where they convert lipases into their active conformation. We have previously shown that the autotransporter protein EstA from P. aeruginosa can be used to direct a variety of proteins to the cell surface of Escherichia coli. Here we demonstrate for the first time the functional cell-surface display of the Lif chaperone and FACS (fluorescence-activated cell sorting)-based analysis of bacterial cells that carried foldase-lipase complexes. The model Lif protein, LipH from P. aeruginosa, was displayed at the surface of E. coli cells. Surface exposed LipH was functional and efficiently refolded chemically denatured lipase. The foldase autodisplay system reported here can be used for a variety of applications including the ultrahigh-throughput screening of large libraries of foldase variants generated by directed evolution.

Scanning electron microscopic and X-ray micro analysis on tooth enamel exposed to alkaline agents.

PubMed

Taubee, Fabian; Steiniger, Frank; Nietzsche, Sandor; Norén, Jörgen G

2010-01-01

The background of this study comprises two clinical cases, where patients exposed to aerosols of an alkaline and surface active cleaning agent developed loss of enamel substance on their teeth, further resulting in loss of teeth and partially destroyed soft tissues. The alkaline cleaning agent consisted of potassium hydroxide and various surfactants. The purpose of this study was to investigate possible changes in morphology and composition in human teeth enamel exposed to alkaline solutions, by means of X-ray micro analysis (XRMA), FTIR-spectroscopic analyses and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Extracted premolars, exposed to potassium hydroxide solutions and alkaline cleaning solution,were analyzed by means of XRMA and SEM. Enamel powder, exposed to cleaning solution, was analyzed by means of FTIR. The SEM analysis revealed an increased porosity of the enamel surface and partially loss of enamel substance after exposure to alkaline solutions. The XRMA analyses revealed a decrease in carbon concentration while phosphorous and calcium showed no marked changes. The FTIR analyses showed no significant changes in peak heights or peak positions for phosphate, carbonate or hydroxide. It was concluded that human teeth enamel exposed to alkaline solutions showed loss of organic substance, marked pores in enamel surface and loss of substance in the enamel surface.

Detection of Lysosomal Exocytosis by Surface Exposure of Lamp1 Luminal Epitopes.

PubMed

Andrews, Norma W

2017-01-01

Elevation in the cytosolic Ca 2+ concentration triggers exocytosis of lysosomes in many cell types. This chapter describes a method to detect lysosomal exocytosis in mammalian cells, which takes advantage of the presence of an abundant glycoprotein, Lamp1, on the membrane of lysosomes. Lamp1 is a transmembrane protein with a large, heavily glycosylated region that faces the lumen of lysosomes. When lysosomes fuse with the plasma membrane, epitopes present on the luminal domain of Lamp1 are exposed on the cell surface. The Lamp1 luminal epitopes can then be detected on the surface of live, unfixed cells using highly specific monoclonal antibodies and fluorescence microscopy. The main advantage of this method is its sensitivity, and the fact that it provides spatial information on lysosomal exocytosis at the single cell level.

Emulsification of hydrocarbons by subsurface bacteria

USGS Publications Warehouse

Francy, D.S.; Thomas, J.M.; Raymond, R.L.; Ward, C.H.

1991-01-01

Biosurfactants have potential for use in enhancement of in situ biorestoration by increasing the bioavailability of contaminants. Microorganisms isolated from biostimulated, contaminated and uncontaminated zones at the site of an aviation fuel spill and hydrocarbon-degrading microorganisms isolated from sites contaminated with unleaded gasoline were examined for their abilities to emulsify petroleum hydrocarbons. Emulsifying ability was quantified by a method involving agitation and visual inspection. Biostimulated-zone microbes and hydrocarbon-degrading microorganisms were the best emulsifiers as compared to contaminated and uncontaminated zone microbes. Biostimulation (nutrient and oxygen addition) may have been the dominant factor which selected for and encouraged growth of emulsifiers; exposure to hydrocarbon was also important. Biostimulated microorganisms were better emulsifiers of aviation fuel (the contaminant hydrocarbon) than of heavier hydrocarbon to which they were not previously exposed. By measuring surface tension changes of culture broths, 11 out of 41 emulsifiers tested were identified as possible biosurfactant producers and two isolates produced large surface tension reductions indicating the high probability of biosurfactant production.Biosurfactants have potential for use in enhancement of in situ biorestoration by increasing the bioavailability of contaminants. Microorganisms isolated from biostimulated, contaminated and uncontaminated zones at the site of an aviation fuel spill and hydrocarbon-degrading microorganisms isolated from sites contaminated with unleaded gasoline were examined for their abilities to emulsify petroleum hydrocarbons. Emulsifying ability was quantified by a method involving agitation and visual inspection. Biostimulated-zone microbes and hydrocarbon-degrading microorganisms were the best emulsifiers as compared to contaminated and uncontaminated zone microbes. Biostimulation (nutrient and oxygen addition) may have been the dominant factor which selected for and encouraged growth of emulsifiers; exposure to hydrocarbon was also important. Biostimulated microorganisms were better emulsifiers of aviation fuel (the contaminant hydrocarbon) than of heavier hydrocarbon to which they were not previously exposed. By measuring surface tension changes of culture broths, 11 out of 41 emulsifiers tested were identified as possible biosurfactant producers and two isolates produced large surface tension reductions, indicating a high probability of biosurfactant production.

Initial Insights into the Quaternary Evolution of the Laurentide Ice Sheet on Southeastern Baffin Island

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pendleton, S.; Anderson, R. S.; Miller, G. H.; Refsnider, K. A.

2015-12-01

Increasing Arctic summer temperatures in recent decades and shrinking cold-based ice caps on Cumberland Peninsula, Baffin Island, are exposing ancient landscapes complete with uneroded bedrock surfaces. Previous work has indicated that these upland surfaces covered with cold-based ice experience negligible erosion compared with the valleys and fjords systems that contain fast-flowing ice. Given the appearance of highly weathered bedrock, it is argued that these landscapes have remained largely unchanged since at least the last interglaciation (~120 ka), and have likely experienced multiple cycles of ice expansion and retraction with little erosion throughout the Quaternary. To explore this hypothesis, we use multiple cosmogenic radionuclides (26Al and 10Be) to investigate and provide insight into longer-term cryosphere activity and landscape evolution. 26Al/10Be in surfaces recently exposed exhibit a wide range of exposure-burial histories. Total exposure-burial times range from ~0.3 - 1.5 My and estimated erosion rates from 0.5 - 6.2 m Ma-1. The upland surfaces of the Penny Ice cap generally experienced higher erosion rates (~0.45 cm ka-1) than those covered by smaller ice caps (~0.2 cm ka-1). The cumulative burial/exposure histories in high, fjord-edge locations indicate that significant erosion north of the Penny Ice Cap ceased between ~600 and 800 ka, suggesting that Laurentide Ice Sheet (LIS) organization and fjord inception was underway by at least this time. Additionally, 26Al/10Be ratios near production values despite high inventories from a coastal summit 50 km east of the Penny Ice Cape suggest that that area has not experienced appreciable burial by ice, suggesting that it was never inundated by the LIS. Moreover, these initial data suggest a variable and dynamic cryosphere in the region and provide insight into how large ice sheets evolved and organized themselves during the Quaternary.

MUC1 and MUC4: Switching the Emphasis from Large to Small

PubMed Central

Carraway, Kermit L.

2011-01-01

Summation The MUC1 and MUC4 membrane mucins are each composed of a large alpha (α) and a small beta (β) subunit. The α subunits are fully exposed at the cell surface and contain variable numbers of repeated amino acid sequences that are heavily glycosylated. In contrast, the β subunits are much smaller and are anchored within the cell membrane, with their amino-terminal portions exposed at the cell surface and their carboxy-terminal tails facing the cytosol. Studies over the last several years are challenging the long-held belief that α subunits play the predominant role in cancer by conferring cellular properties that allow tumor cells to evade immune recognition and destruction. Indeed, the β subunits of MUC1 and MUC4 have emerged as oncogenes, as they engage signaling pathways responsible for tumor initiation and progression. Thus, a switch in the emphasis from the large α to the small β subunits offers attractive possibilities for successful clinical application. Such a focus shift is further supported by the absence of allelic polymorphism and variable glycosylation in the β subunit as well as by the presence of the β subunit in most MUC1 and MUC4 isoforms expressed by tumors. MUC1α, also known as CA15.3, is a Food and Drug Administration-approved serum biomarker for breast cancer, but its use is no longer recommended by the American Society of Clinical Oncology. However, comparison of β subunit expression in normal and malignant breast tissues may offer a novel approach to the exploitation of membrane mucins as biomarkers, as MUC1β-induced gene signatures with prognostic and predictive values in breast cancer have been reported. Preclinical studies with peptides that interfere with MUC1β oncogenic functions also look promising. PMID:21728842

Surface-exposed and antigenically conserved determinants of outer membrane proteins of Branhamella catarrhalis.

PubMed Central

Murphy, T F; Bartos, L C

1989-01-01

The outer membrane proteins (OMPs) of Branhamella catarrhalis were studied in an effort to identify surface-exposed determinants that are conserved among strains of the bacterium. Aliquots of polyclonal antiserum were absorbed individually by strains of B. catarrhalis. The absorbed antisera were tested in comparison with unabsorbed antiserum in an immunoblot assay against OMPs of the homologous strain. The absence of a band recognized by antibodies in the absorbed antiserum compared with the unabsorbed antiserum indicated that surface-exposed determinants of the absorbing strain cross-reacted with determinants on the homologous strain. Two antisera were absorbed individually by 20 strains of B. catarrhalis, and the absorbed sera were studied in this way in immunoblot assays. OMP E (molecular weight, ca. 56,000) expresses surface-exposed determinants that are shared among 17 of the 20 strains studied. Antibodies to OMP G (molecular weight, 28,000) were absorbed from both antisera by 14 of the 20 strains. These studies demonstrate that OMP E and OMP G express determinants that are exposed on the surface of the intact bacterium. Furthermore, these determinants are antigenically conserved among a majority of strains of B. catarrhalis. On the basis of these observations, OMPs E and G should be considered when bacterial antigens are evaluated as potential vaccine candidates. Images PMID:2476393

Effect of Blood Contamination on Marginal Adaptation and Surface Microstructure of Mineral Trioxide Aggregate: A SEM Study.

PubMed

Salem Milani, Amin; Rahimi, Saeed; Froughreyhani, Mohammad; Vahid Pakdel, Mahdi

2013-01-01

In various clinical situations, mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) may come into direct contact or even be mixed with blood. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of exposure to blood on marginal adaptation and surface microstructure of MTA. Thirty extracted human single-rooted teeth were used. Standard root canal treatment was carried out. Root-ends were resected, and retrocavities were prepared. The teeth were randomly divided into two groups (n = 15): in group 1, the internal surface of the cavities was coated with fresh blood. Then, the cavities were filled with MTA. The roots were immersed in molds containing fresh blood. In group 2, the aforementioned procedures were performed except that synthetic tissue fluid (STF) was used instead of blood. To assess the marginal adaptation, "gap perimeter" and "maximum gap width" were measured under scanning electron microscope. The surface microstructure was also examined. Independent samples t-test and Mann-Whitney U test were used to analyze the data. Maximum gap width and gap perimeter in the blood-exposed group were significantly larger than those in the STF-exposed group (p < 0.01). In the blood-exposed group, the crystals tended to be more rounded and less angular compared with the STF-exposed group, and there was a general lack of needle-like crystals. Exposure to blood during setting has a negative effect on marginal adaptation of MTA, and blood-exposed MTA has a different surface microstructure compared to STF-exposed MTA.

Hypersonic aerospace vehicle leading edge cooling using heat pipe, transpiration and film cooling techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Modlin, James Michael

An investigation was conducted to study the feasibility of cooling hypersonic vehicle leading edge structures exposed to severe aerodynamic surface heat fluxes using a combination of liquid metal heat pipes and surface mass transfer cooling techniques. A generalized, transient, finite difference based hypersonic leading edge cooling model was developed that incorporated these effects and was demonstrated on an assumed aerospace plane-type wing leading edge section and a SCRAMJET engine inlet leading edge section. The hypersonic leading edge cooling model was developed using an existing, experimentally verified heat pipe model. Two applications of the hypersonic leading edge cooling model were examined. An assumed aerospace plane-type wing leading edge section exposed to a severe laminar, hypersonic aerodynamic surface heat flux was studied. A second application of the hypersonic leading edge cooling model was conducted on an assumed one-quarter inch nose diameter SCRAMJET engine inlet leading edge section exposed to both a transient laminar, hypersonic aerodynamic surface heat flux and a type 4 shock interference surface heat flux. The investigation led to the conclusion that cooling leading edge structures exposed to severe hypersonic flight environments using a combination of liquid metal heat pipe, surface transpiration, and film cooling methods appeared feasible.

Fracture behaviour of the 14Cr ODS steel exposed to helium and liquid lead

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hojna, Anna; Di Gabriele, Fosca; Hadraba, Hynek; Husak, Roman; Kubena, Ivo; Rozumova, Lucia; Bublikova, Petra; Kalivodova, Jana; Matejicek, Jiri

2017-07-01

This work describes the fracture behaviour of the 14Cr ODS steel produced by mechanical alloying process, after high temperature exposures. Small specimens were exposed to helium gas in a furnace at 720 °C for 500 h. Another set of specimens was exposed to flowing liquid lead in the COLONRI II loop at 650 °C for 1000 h. All specimens were tested for the impact and tensile behaviour. The impact test results are compared to other sets of specimens in the as received state and after isothermal annealing at 650 °C for 1000 h. The impact curves of the exposed materials showed positive shifts on the transition temperature. While the upper shelf value did not change in the Pb exposed ODS steel, it significantly increased in the He exposed one. The differences are discussed in terms of surface and subsurface microscopy observation. The embrittlement can be explained as the effect of a slight change in the grain boundary and size distribution combined with the depletion of sub-surface region from alloying elements forming oxide scale on the surface.

Bottom-up production of meta-atoms for optical magnetism in visible and NIR light

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barois, Philippe; Ponsinet, Virginie; Baron, Alexandre; Richetti, Philippe

2018-02-01

Many unusual optical properties of metamaterials arise from the magnetic response of engineered structures of sub-wavelength size (meta-atoms) exposed to light. The top-down approach whereby engineered nanostructure of well-defined morphology are engraved on a surface proved to be successful for the generation of strong optical magnetism. It faces however the limitations of high cost and small active area in visible light where nanometre resolution is needed. The bottom-up approach whereby the fabrication metamaterials of large volume or large area results from the combination of nanochemitry and self-assembly techniques may constitute a cost-effective alternative. This approach nevertheless requires the large-scale production of functional building-blocks (meta-atoms) bearing a strong magnetic optical response. We propose in this paper a few tracks that lead to the large scale synthesis of magnetic metamaterials operating in visible or near IR light.

Topography of the Dictyostelium discoideum plasma membrane: analysis of membrane asymmetry and intermolecular disulfide bonds.

PubMed

Shiozawa, J A; Jelenska, M M; Jacobson, B S

1987-07-28

Through the application of a unique method for isolating plasma membranes, it was possible to specifically iodinate cytoplasm-exposed plasma membrane proteins in vegetative cells of the cellular slime mold Dictyostelium discoideum. The original procedure [Chaney, L. K., & Jacobson, B. S. (1983) J. Biol. Chem. 258, 10062] which involved coating cells with colloidal silica has been modified to yield a more pure preparation. The presence of the continuous and dense silica pellicle on the outside surface of the isolated plasma membrane permitted the specific labeling of cytoplasm-exposed membrane proteins. Lactoperoxidase-catalyzed iodination was employed to label cell-surface and cytoplasm-exposed membrane proteins. The isolated and radioiodinated membranes were then compared and analyzed by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The cell-surface and cytoplasmic face labeling patterns were distinct. A total of 65 proteins were found to be accessible to at least one surface of the membrane. Sixteen intermolecular disulfide bond complexes were observed in the plasma membrane of Dictyostelium; most of these complexes involved glycoproteins and, hence, were exposed to the cell surface.

Functional ecology of an Antarctic Dry Valley

PubMed Central

Chan, Yuki; Van Nostrand, Joy D.; Zhou, Jizhong; Pointing, Stephen B.

2013-01-01

The McMurdo Dry Valleys are the largest ice-free region in Antarctica and are critically at risk from climate change. The terrestrial landscape is dominated by oligotrophic mineral soils and extensive exposed rocky surfaces where biota are largely restricted to microbial communities, although their ability to perform the majority of geobiological processes has remained largely uncharacterized. Here, we identified functional traits that drive microbial survival and community assembly, using a metagenomic approach with GeoChip-based functional gene arrays to establish metabolic capabilities in communities inhabiting soil and rock surface niches in McKelvey Valley. Major pathways in primary metabolism were identified, indicating significant plasticity in autotrophic, heterotrophic, and diazotrophic strategies supporting microbial communities. This represents a major advance beyond biodiversity surveys in that we have now identified how putative functional ecology drives microbial community assembly. Significant differences were apparent between open soil, hypolithic, chasmoendolithic, and cryptoendolithic communities. A suite of previously unappreciated Antarctic microbial stress response pathways, thermal, osmotic, and nutrient limitation responses were identified and related to environmental stressors, offering tangible clues to the mechanisms behind the enduring success of microorganisms in this seemingly inhospitable terrain. Rocky substrates exposed to larger fluctuations in environmental stress supported greater functional diversity in stress-response pathways than soils. Soils comprised a unique reservoir of genes involved in transformation of organic hydrocarbons and lignin-like degradative pathways. This has major implications for the evolutionary origin of the organisms, turnover of recalcitrant substrates in Antarctic soils, and predicting future responses to anthropogenic pollution. PMID:23671121

Functional ecology of an Antarctic Dry Valley.

PubMed

Chan, Yuki; Van Nostrand, Joy D; Zhou, Jizhong; Pointing, Stephen B; Farrell, Roberta L

2013-05-28

The McMurdo Dry Valleys are the largest ice-free region in Antarctica and are critically at risk from climate change. The terrestrial landscape is dominated by oligotrophic mineral soils and extensive exposed rocky surfaces where biota are largely restricted to microbial communities, although their ability to perform the majority of geobiological processes has remained largely uncharacterized. Here, we identified functional traits that drive microbial survival and community assembly, using a metagenomic approach with GeoChip-based functional gene arrays to establish metabolic capabilities in communities inhabiting soil and rock surface niches in McKelvey Valley. Major pathways in primary metabolism were identified, indicating significant plasticity in autotrophic, heterotrophic, and diazotrophic strategies supporting microbial communities. This represents a major advance beyond biodiversity surveys in that we have now identified how putative functional ecology drives microbial community assembly. Significant differences were apparent between open soil, hypolithic, chasmoendolithic, and cryptoendolithic communities. A suite of previously unappreciated Antarctic microbial stress response pathways, thermal, osmotic, and nutrient limitation responses were identified and related to environmental stressors, offering tangible clues to the mechanisms behind the enduring success of microorganisms in this seemingly inhospitable terrain. Rocky substrates exposed to larger fluctuations in environmental stress supported greater functional diversity in stress-response pathways than soils. Soils comprised a unique reservoir of genes involved in transformation of organic hydrocarbons and lignin-like degradative pathways. This has major implications for the evolutionary origin of the organisms, turnover of recalcitrant substrates in Antarctic soils, and predicting future responses to anthropogenic pollution.

The effect of geometrical presentation of multimodal cation-exchange ligands on selective recognition of hydrophobic regions on protein surfaces.

PubMed

Woo, James; Parimal, Siddharth; Brown, Matthew R; Heden, Ryan; Cramer, Steven M

2015-09-18

The effects of spatial organization of hydrophobic and charged moieties on multimodal (MM) cation-exchange ligands were examined by studying protein retention behavior on two commercial chromatographic media, Capto™ MMC and Nuvia™ cPrime™. Proteins with extended regions of surface-exposed aliphatic residues were found to have enhanced retention on the Capto MMC system as compared to the Nuvia cPrime resin. The results further indicated that while the Nuvia cPrime ligand had a strong preference for interactions with aromatic groups, the Capto MMC ligand appeared to interact with both aliphatic and aromatic clusters on the protein surfaces. These observations were formalized into a new set of protein surface property descriptors, which quantified the local distribution of electrostatic and hydrophobic potentials as well as distinguishing between aromatic and aliphatic properties. Using these descriptors, high-performing quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) models (R(2)>0.88) were generated for both the Capto MMC and Nuvia cPrime datasets at pH 5 and pH 6. Descriptors of electrostatic properties were generally common across the four models; however both Capto MMC models included descriptors that quantified regions of aliphatic-based hydrophobicity in addition to aromatic descriptors. Retention was generally reduced by lowering the ligand densities on both MM resins. Notably, elution order was largely unaffected by the change in surface density, but smaller and more aliphatic proteins tended to be more affected by this drop in ligand density. This suggests that modulating the exposure, shape and density of the hydrophobic moieties in multimodal chromatographic systems can alter the preference for surface exposed aliphatic or aromatic residues, thus providing an additional dimension for modulating the selectivity of MM protein separation systems. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Exposed water ice on the nucleus of comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko.

PubMed

Filacchione, G; De Sanctis, M C; Capaccioni, F; Raponi, A; Tosi, F; Ciarniello, M; Cerroni, P; Piccioni, G; Capria, M T; Palomba, E; Bellucci, G; Erard, S; Bockelee-Morvan, D; Leyrat, C; Arnold, G; Barucci, M A; Fulchignoni, M; Schmitt, B; Quirico, E; Jaumann, R; Stephan, K; Longobardo, A; Mennella, V; Migliorini, A; Ammannito, E; Benkhoff, J; Bibring, J P; Blanco, A; Blecka, M I; Carlson, R; Carsenty, U; Colangeli, L; Combes, M; Combi, M; Crovisier, J; Drossart, P; Encrenaz, T; Federico, C; Fink, U; Fonti, S; Ip, W H; Irwin, P; Kuehrt, E; Langevin, Y; Magni, G; McCord, T; Moroz, L; Mottola, S; Orofino, V; Schade, U; Taylor, F; Tiphene, D; Tozzi, G P; Beck, P; Biver, N; Bonal, L; Combe, J-Ph; Despan, D; Flamini, E; Formisano, M; Fornasier, S; Frigeri, A; Grassi, D; Gudipati, M S; Kappel, D; Mancarella, F; Markus, K; Merlin, F; Orosei, R; Rinaldi, G; Cartacci, M; Cicchetti, A; Giuppi, S; Hello, Y; Henry, F; Jacquinod, S; Reess, J M; Noschese, R; Politi, R; Peter, G

2016-01-21

Although water vapour is the main species observed in the coma of comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko and water is the major constituent of cometary nuclei, limited evidence for exposed water-ice regions on the surface of the nucleus has been found so far. The absence of large regions of exposed water ice seems a common finding on the surfaces of many of the comets observed so far. The nucleus of 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko appears to be fairly uniformly coated with dark, dehydrated, refractory and organic-rich material. Here we report the identification at infrared wavelengths of water ice on two debris falls in the Imhotep region of the nucleus. The ice has been exposed on the walls of elevated structures and at the base of the walls. A quantitative derivation of the abundance of ice in these regions indicates the presence of millimetre-sized pure water-ice grains, considerably larger than in all previous observations. Although micrometre-sized water-ice grains are the usual result of vapour recondensation in ice-free layers, the occurrence of millimetre-sized grains of pure ice as observed in the Imhotep debris falls is best explained by grain growth by vapour diffusion in ice-rich layers, or by sintering. As a consequence of these processes, the nucleus can develop an extended and complex coating in which the outer dehydrated crust is superimposed on layers enriched in water ice. The stratigraphy observed on 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko is therefore the result of evolutionary processes affecting the uppermost metres of the nucleus and does not necessarily require a global layering to have occurred at the time of the comet's formation.

Surface-Plasma Interaction on the Moon

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

Horanyi, M.; Wang, X.; Robertson, S.

2008-09-07

The electrostatic levitation and transport of lunar dust remains a controversial science issue since the Apollo era. As a function of time and location, the lunar surface is exposed to solar wind plasma, UV radiation, and/or the plasma environment of our magnetosphere. Dust grains on the lunar surface emit and absorb plasma particles and are exposed to solar UV photons. There are several in situ and remote sensing observations that indicate that dusty plasma processes are responsible for the mobilization and transport of lunar soil. We briefly discuss the existing observations, and report on a series of experiments that addressmore » some of the most relevant processes acting on dusty surfaces exposed to plasmas and UV radiation.« less

Experimental study on performance of outdoor ground materials in aspect of surface temperature by constant field experiment in subtropical climate city

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xi, T. Y.; Ding, J. H.; Lv, X. W.; Lei, Y. S.

2018-06-01

In order to create a comfortable building thermal environment, it is important to study the outdoor ground materials performance. In this article, we carried out a constant field experiment in Guangzhou, China, studying on the variations of the surface temperature of three common outdoor building materials: concrete, pavement and grass. We put the equipment on six experiment points respectively to measure the ground surface temperature constantly. The result shows that because of the specific heat capacity, both concrete and pavement have an obvious time delay during their temperature decrease when the grass ground has almost no time delay. And when in the same conditions (exposed to sunlight all day), the material with a low specific heat capacity has a more sensitive variation in temperature. The lower the specific capacity is, the steeper the variation trend of the surface temperature will be. So compared with concrete, the pavement brick ground with a low specific heat capacity has a higher surface temperature in daytime and a lower temperature in the late night time. When in different conditions (different time exposed to sunlight), the temperature value is proportional to the time exposed to the sunlight between the same materials. The concrete exposed to sunlight all day has the highest temperature when the shaded one has the lowest. This experiment reveals that both specific heat capacity and the exposed time to sunlight has a strong influence on the surface temperature of outdoor materials. In subtropical region, the materials with a higher specific heat capacity and a less time exposed to sunlight may be more beneficial to the building thermal environment.

'2TM proteins': an antigenically diverse superfamily with variable functions and export pathways.

PubMed

Kaur, Jasweer; Hora, Rachna

2018-01-01

Malaria is a disease that affects millions of people annually. An intracellular habitat and lack of protein synthesizing machinery in erythrocytes pose numerous difficulties for survival of the human pathogen Plasmodium falciparum . The parasite refurbishes the infected red blood cell (iRBC) by synthesis and export of several proteins in an attempt to suffice its metabolic needs and evade the host immune response. Immune evasion is largely mediated by surface display of highly polymorphic protein families known as variable surface antigens. These include the two trans-membrane (2TM) superfamily constituted by multicopy repetitive interspersed family (RIFINs), subtelomeric variable open reading frame (STEVORs) and Plasmodium falciparum Maurer's cleft two trans-membrane proteins present only in P. falciparum and some simian infecting Plasmodium species. Their hypervariable region flanked by 2TM domains exposed on the iRBC surface is believed to generate antigenic diversity. Though historically named "2TM superfamily," several A-type RIFINs and some STEVORs assume one trans-membrane topology. RIFINs and STEVORs share varied functions in different parasite life cycle stages like rosetting, alteration of iRBC rigidity and immune evasion. Additionally, a member of the STEVOR family has been implicated in merozoite invasion. Differential expression of these families in laboratory strains and clinical isolates propose them to be important for host cell survival and defense. The role of RIFINs in modulation of host immune response and presence of protective antibodies against these surface exposed molecules in patient sera highlights them as attractive targets of antimalarial therapies and vaccines. 2TM proteins are Plasmodium export elements positive, and several of these are exported to the infected erythrocyte surface after exiting through the classical secretory pathway within parasites. Cleaved and modified proteins are trafficked after packaging in vesicles to reach Maurer's clefts, while information regarding delivery to the iRBC surface is sparse. Expression and export timing of the RIFIN and Plasmodium falciparum erythrocyte membrane protein1 families correspond to each other. Here, we have compiled and comprehended detailed information regarding orthologues, domain architecture, surface topology, functions and trafficking of members of the "2TM superfamily." Considering the large repertoire of proteins included in the 2TM superfamily and recent advances defining their function in malaria biology, a surge in research carried out on this important protein superfamily is likely.

Large heat capacity change in a protein-monovalent cation interaction.

PubMed

Guinto, E R; Di Cera, E

1996-07-09

Current views about protein-ligand interactions state that electrostatic forces drive the binding of charged species and that burial of hydrophobic and polar surfaces controls the heat capacity change associated with the reaction. For the interaction of a protein with a monovalent cation the electrostatic components are expected to be significant due to the ionic nature of the ligand, whereas the heat capacity change is expected to be small due to the size of the surface area involved in the recognition event. The physiologically important interaction of Na+ with thrombin was studied over the temperature range from 5 to 45 degrees C and the ionic strength range from 50 to 800 mM. These measurements reveal an unanticipated result that bears quite generally on studies of molecular recognition and protein folding. Binding of Na+ to thrombin is characterized by a modest dependence on ionic strength but a large and negative heat capacity change of -1.1 +/- 0.1 kcal mol-1 K-1. The small electrostatic coupling can be explained in terms of a minimal perturbation of the ionic atmosphere of the protein upon Na+ binding. The large heat capacity change, however, is difficult to reconcile with current views on the origin of this effect from surface area changes or large folding transitions coupled to binding. It is proposed that this change is linked to burial of a large cluster of water molecules in the Na+ binding pocket upon Na+ binding. Due to their reduced mobility and highly ordered structure, water molecules sequestered in the interior of a protein must have a lower heat capacity compared to those on the surface of a protein or in the bulk solvent. Hence, a binding or folding event where water molecules are buried may result in significant heat capacity changes independent of changes in exposed hydrophobic surface or coupled conformational transitions.

Biomimetic superhydrophobic surface of high adhesion fabricated with micronano binary structure on aluminum alloy.

PubMed

Liu, Yan; Liu, Jindan; Li, Shuyi; Liu, Jiaan; Han, Zhiwu; Ren, Luquan

2013-09-25

Triggered by the microstructure characteristics of the surfaces of typical plant leaves such as the petals of red roses, a biomimetic superhydrophobic surface with high adhesion is successfully fabricated on aluminum alloy. The essential procedure is that samples were processed by a laser, then immersed and etched in nitric acid and copper nitrate, and finally modified by DTS (CH3(CH2)11Si(OCH3)3). The obtained surfaces exhibit a binary structure consisting of microscale crater-like pits and nanoscale reticula. The superhydrophobicity can be simultaneously affected by the micronano binary structure and chemical composition of the surface. The contact angle of the superhydrophobic surface reaches up to 158.8 ± 2°. Especially, the surface with micronano binary structure is revealed to be an excellent adhesive property with petal-effect. Moreover, the superhydrophobic surfaces show excellent stability in aqueous solution with a large pH range and after being exposed long-term in air. In this way, the multifunctional biomimetic structural surface of the aluminum alloy is fabricated. Furthermore, the preparation technology in this article provides a new route for other metal materials.

Study of Inactivation Factors in Low Temperature Surface-wave Plasma Sterilization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singh, Mrityunjai Kumar; Xu, Lei; Ogino, Akihisa; Nagatsu, Masaaki

In this study we investigated the low temperature surface-wave plasma sterilization of directly and indirectly exposed Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores with a large-volume microwave plasma device. The air-simulated gas mixture was used to produce the plasma. The water vapor addition to the gas mixture improved the sterilization efficiency significantly. The effect of ultraviolet photons produced along with plasma to inactivate the spores was studied using a separate chamber, which was evacuated to less than one mTorr and was observed that spores were sterilized within 60 min. The scanning electron microscopy images revealed no significant changes in the actual size of the spores with that of untreated spores despite the survival curve shown that the spores were inactivated.

The effects of electric fields on charged molecules and particles in individual microenvironments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jamieson, K. S.; ApSimon, H. M.; Jamieson, S. S.; Bell, J. N. B.; Yost, M. G.

Measurements of small air ion concentrations, electrostatic potential and AC electric field strengths were taken in an office setting to investigate the link between electric fields and charged molecule and particle concentrations in individual microenvironments. The results obtained indicate that the electromagnetic environments individuals can be exposed to whilst indoors can often bear little resemblance to those experienced outdoors in nature, and that many individuals may spend large periods of their time in "Faraday cage"-like conditions exposed to inappropriate levels and types of electric fields that can reduce localised concentrations of biologically essential and microbiocidal small air ions. Such conditions may escalate their risk of infection from airborne contaminants, including microbes, whilst increasing localised surface contamination. The degree of "electro-pollution" that individuals are exposed to was shown to be influenced by the type of microenvironment they occupy, with it being possible for very different types of microenvironment to exist within the same room. It is suggested that adopting suitable electromagnetic hygiene/productivity guidelines that seek to replicate the beneficial effects created by natural environments may greatly mitigate such problems.

Method and means of reducing erosion of components of plasma devices exposed to helium and hydrogen isotope radiation

DOEpatents

Kaminsky, Manfred S.; Das, Santosh K.; Rossing, Thomas D.

1977-01-25

Surfaces of components of plasma devices exposed to radiation by atoms or ions of helium or isotopes of hydrogen can be protected from damage due to blistering by shielding the surfaces with a structure formed by sintering a powder of aluminum or beryllium and its oxide or by coating the surfaces with such a sintered metal powder.

Cleaning the Southern African Large Telescope's M5 mirror

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Crause, Lisa A.; Gajjar, Hitesh; Love, Jonathan; Strümpfer, Francois; O'Connor, James E.; O'Donoghue, Darragh E.; Strydom, Ockert J.; Buckley, David A. H.; Gillingham, Peter

2010-07-01

This paper describes the cleaning of M5, one of the four mirrors that make up the Southern African Large Telescope's Spherical Aberration Corrector. As the top upward-facing mirror in a relatively exposed environment, M5 had accumulated a considerable amount of dust and dirt during the six years it had been on the telescope. With the corrector on the ground for re-alignment and testing, we had the opportunity to remove, wash and replace the mirror. Various cleaning techniques were investigated, including an unsuccessful trial application of First Contact surface cleaning polymer film - fortunately only to a small region outside the mirror's clear aperture. Ultimately, "drag-wiping" with wads of cotton wool soaked in a 10g/l sodium lauryl sulphate solution proved highly effective in restoring the reflectivity of M5's optical surface. Following this success, we repeated the procedure for M3, the other upward-facing mirror in the corrector. The results for M3 were equally spectacular.

Buried Impact Basins and the Earliest History of Mars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Frey, H. V.

2003-01-01

The "Quasi-Circular Depressions" (QCDs) seen in MOLA data which have little or no visible appearance in image data have been interpreted as buried impact basins on Mars. These have important implications for the age of the lowland crust, what mechanisms could produce the crustal dichotomy, and the existence of crust older than the oldest observed surface units on Mars. A global survey of large QCDs using high resolution MOLA data now available has provided further details of the earliest history of Mars. The lowlands are of Early Noachian age, slightly younger than the buried highlands and definitely older than the exposed highland surface. A depopulation of large visible basins at diameters 800 to 1300 km suggests some global scale event early in martian history, maybe related to the formation of the lowlands and/or the development of Tharsis. A suggested early disappearance of the global magnetic field can be placed within a temporal sequence of formation of the very largest impact basins.

Hierarchically structured graphene-carbon nanotube-cobalt hybrid electrocatalyst for seawater battery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suh, Dong Hoon; Park, Sul Ki; Nakhanivej, Puritut; Kim, Youngsik; Hwang, Soo Min; Park, Ho Seok

2017-12-01

The design of cost-effective and highly active catalysts is a critical challenge. Inspired by the strong points of stability and conductivity of carbon nanotubes (CNTs), high catalytic activity of Co nanoparticles, and rapid ion diffusion and large accessible area of three-dimensional (3D) graphene, we demonstrate a novel strategy to construct a hierarchical hybrid structure consisting of Co/CoOx nanoparticles-incorporated CNT branches onto the 3D reduced graphene oxide (rGO) architecture. The surface-modified 3D rGO by steam activation process has a large surface area and abundant defect sites, which serve as active sites to uniformly grow Co/CoOx nanoparticles. Furthermore, the CNTs preserve their performance stably by encapsulating Co nanoparticles, while the uniformly decorated Co/CoOx nanoparticles exhibit superior electrocatalytic activity toward oxygen evolution/reduction reaction due to highly exposed active sites. Employing the hybrid particle electrocatalyst, the seawater battery operates stably at 0.01 mA cm-2 during 50 cycles, owing to the good electrocatalytic ability.

Smooth and Fractured Deposits in Eridania Valleys

NASA Image and Video Library

2017-01-13

The ancient highland channels in this image empty into the Eridania Basin (not visible), a large topographically low enclosure with smooth-appearing terrains that may have once contained a large paleolake or ancient sea. Water in these channels flowed to the east into Ariadnes Basin, a smaller basin located within the confines of Eridiana. Light-toned knobs are exposed in the northern channel, while the other channels are partially filled with smooth appearing lobe-shaped surface flows that are extensively fractured when viewed at high-resolution. Although the origin of these knobs is not known, interpretations include fumarolic mounds, erosional remnants, pingos, mud volcanoes and spring mounds. The movement of the once ice-rich, channel-filling flows over the knobby terrains likely created radial tension stresses producing the cracks that we see on the surface of these deposits. As the material slowly thinned, it eventually led to the formation of an elephant skin-like texture. This texture is different from the surrounding eroding mantling deposit that has become pitted as the ice sublimated causing the overlying surface to collapse. The combination of such knobby terrain and smooth, channel-filling deposits are seen only in a few places on Mars. One such example is the Navua Valles channels northeast of the Hellas Basin that may have also hosted a large, ice-covered lake in the past. Their morphological similarities, particularly in their surface materials, suggest that they formed under similar paleoclimatic conditions. http://photojournal.jpl.nasa.gov/catalog/PIA12968

Sublimation of water ice mixed with silicates and tholins: Evolution of surface texture and reflectance spectra, with implications for comets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Poch, Olivier; Pommerol, Antoine; Jost, Bernhard; Carrasco, Nathalie; Szopa, Cyril; Thomas, Nicolas

2016-03-01

The surfaces of many objects in the Solar System comprise substantial quantities of water ice sometimes mixed with minerals and/or organic molecules. The sublimation of the ice changes the structural and optical properties of these objects. We present laboratory data on the evolution of the structure and the visible and near-infrared spectral reflectance of icy surface analogues of cometary ices, made of water ice, complex organic matter (tholins) and silicates, as they undergo sublimation under low temperature (<-70 °C) and pressure (10-5 mbar) conditions inside the SCITEAS simulation chamber. As the water ice sublimated, we observed in situ the formation of a porous sublimation lag deposit, or sublimation mantle, at the top of the ice. This mantle is a network of filaments made of the non-volatile particles. Organics or phyllosilicates grains, able to interact via stronger inter-particulate forces than olivine grains, can form a foam-like structure having internal cohesiveness, holding olivine grains together. As this mantle builds-up, the band depths of the sub-surface water ice are attenuated until complete extinction under only few millimeters of mantle. Optically thick sublimation mantles are mainly featureless in the near infrared. The absorption bands of the minerals present in the mantle are weak, or even totally absent if minerals are mixed with organics which largely dominate the VIS-NIR reflectance spectrum. During sublimation, ejections of large fragments of mantle, triggered by the gas flow, expose ice particles to the surface. The contrast of brightness between mantled and ice-exposed areas depends on the wavelength range and the dust/ice ratio considered. We describe how the chemical nature of the non-volatiles, the size of their particles, the way they are mixed with the ice and the dust/ice mass ratio influence the texture, activity and spectro-photometric properties of the sublimation mantles. These data provide useful references for interpreting remote-sensing observations of comets and also icy satellites or trans-neptunian objects.

Current collection from the space plasma through defects in high voltage solar array insulation. Ph.D. Thesis. Final Report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stillwell, R. P.

1983-01-01

For spacecraft operation in the near Earth environment, solar cell arrays constitute the major source of reliable long term power. Optimization of mass and power efficiency results in a general requirement for high voltage solar arrays. The space plasma environment, though, can result in large currents being collected by exposed solar cells. The solution of a protective covering of transparent insulation is not a complete solution, inasmuch as defects in the insulation result in anomalously large currents being collected through the defects. Tests simulating the electron collection from small defects in an insulation have shown that there are two major collection modes. The first mode involves current enhancement by means of a surface phenomenon involving the surrounding insulator. In the second mode the current collection is enhanced by vaporization and ionization of the insulators materials, in addition to the surface enhancement of the first mode. A model for the electron collection is the surface enhanced collection mode was developed. The model relates the secondary electron emission yield to the electron collection. It correctly predicts the qualitative effects of hole size, sample temperature and roughening of sample surface. The theory was also shown to predict electron collection within a factor of two for the polymers teflon and polyimide.

Effect of antimony incorporation on the density, shape, and luminescence of InAs quantum dots

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, J. F.; Chiang, C. H.; Wu, Y. H.; Chang, L.; Chi, J. Y.

2008-07-01

This work investigates the surfactant effect on exposed and buried InAs quantum dots (QDs) by incorporating Sb into the QD layers with various Sb beam equivalent pressures (BEPs). Secondary ion mass spectroscopy shows the presence of Sb in the exposed and buried QD layers with the Sb intensity in the exposed layer substantially exceeding that in the buried layer. Incorporating Sb can reduce the density of the exposed QDs by more than two orders of magnitude. However, a high Sb BEP yields a surface morphology with a regular periodic structure of ellipsoid terraces. A good room-temperature photoluminescence (PL) at ˜1600 nm from the exposed QDs is observed, suggesting that the Sb incorporation probably improves the emission efficiency by reducing the surface recombination velocity at the surface of the exposed QDs. Increasing Sb BEP causes a blueshift of the emission from the exposed QDs due to a reduction in the dot height as suggested by atomic force microscopy. Increasing Sb BEP can also blueshift the ˜1300 nm emission from the buried QDs by decreasing the dot height. However, a high Sb BEP yields a quantum well-like PL feature formed by the clustering of the buried QDs into an undulated planar layer. These results indicate a marked Sb surfactant effect that can be used to control the density, shape, and luminescence of the exposed and buried QDs.

Adhesion strength and spreading characteristics of EPS on membrane surfaces during lateral and central growth.

PubMed

Tansel, Berrin; Tansel, Derya Z

2013-11-01

Deposition of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) on membrane surfaces is a precursor step for bacterial attachment. The purpose of this study was to analyze the morphological changes on a clean polysulfone ultrafilration membrane after exposure to effluent from a membrane bioreactor. The effluent was filtered to remove bacteria before exposing the membrane. The morphological characterization was performed by atomic force microscopy (AFM). The lateral (2D) and central growth characteristics (3D) of the EPS deposits were evaluated by section and topographical analyses of the height images. The contact angle of single EPS units was 9.07 ± 0.50° which increased to 24.41 ± 1.00° for large clusters (over 10 units) and decreased to 18.68 ± 1.00° for the multilayered clusters. The surface tension of the single EPS units was 49.34 ± 1.70 mNm(-1). The surface tension of single layered small and large EPS clusters were 51.26 ± 2.05 and 53.48 ± 2.01 mNm(-1), respectively. For the multilayered clusters, the surface tension was 51.43 ± 2.05 mNm(-1). The spreading values were negative for all deposits on the polysulfone membrane indicating that the EPS clusters did not have tendency to spread but preferred to retain their shapes. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

False Color Processing to Enhance Differences Around Yogi

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1997-01-01

In this scene showing the rover deployed at rock Yogi, the colors have similarly been enhanced to bring out differences. The same three kinds of rocks are recognized as in the distance. Yogi (red arrow), one of the large rocks with a weathered coating, exhibits a fresh face to the northeast, resulting perhaps from eolian scouring or from fracturing off of pieces to expose a fresher surface. Barnacle Bill and Cradle (blue arrows) are typical of the unweathered smaller rocks. During its traverse to Yogi the rover stirred the soil and exposed material from several cm in depth. During one of the turns to deploy Sojourner's Alpha Proton X-Ray Spectrometer (inset and white arrow), the wheels dug particularly deeply and exposed white material. Spectra of this white material show it is virtually identical to Scooby Doo, and such white material may underlie much of the site. The lander's rear ramp, which Sojourner used to descend to the Martian surface, is at lower left.

Mars Pathfinder is the second in NASA's Discovery program of low-cost spacecraft with highly focused science goals. The Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, CA, developed and managed the Mars Pathfinder mission for NASA's Office of Space Science, Washington, D.C. The Imager for Mars Pathfinder (IMP) was developed by the University of Arizona Lunar and Planetary Laboratory under contract to JPL. Peter Smith is the Principal Investigator. JPL is an operating division of the California Institute of Technology (Caltech).

Weathering patterns of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons contained in submerged Deepwater Horizon oil spill residues when re-exposed to sunlight.

PubMed

John, Gerald F; Han, Yuling; Clement, T Prabhakar

2016-12-15

The Deepwater Horizon (DWH) oil spill event released a large amount of sweet crude oil into the Gulf of Mexico (GOM). An unknown portion of this oil that arrived along the Alabama shoreline interacted with nearshore sediments and sank forming submerged oil mats (SOMs). A considerable amount of hydrocarbons, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), were trapped within these buried SOMs. Recent studies completed using the oil spill residues collected along the Alabama shoreline have shown that several PAHs, especially higher molecular weight PAHs (four or more aromatic rings), are slowly weathering compared to the weathering levels experienced by the oil when it was floating over the GOM. In this study we have hypothesized that the weathering rates of PAHs in SOMs have slowed down because the buried oil was isolated from direct exposure to sunlight, thus hindering the photodegradation pathway. We further hypothesized that re-exposing SOMs to sunlight can reactivate various weathering reactions. Also, SOMs contain 75-95% sand (by weight) and the entrapped sand could either block direct sunlight or form large oil agglomerates with very little exposed surface area; these processes could possibly interfere with weathering reactions. To test these hypotheses, we completed controlled experiments to study the weathering patterns of PAHs in a field recovered SOM sample after re-exposing it to sunlight. Our experimental results show that the weathering levels of several higher molecular weight PAHs have slowed down primarily due to the absence of sunlight-induced photodegradation reactions. The data also show that sand particles in SOM material could potentially interfere with photodegradation reactions. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Are baleen whales exposed to the threat of microplastics? A case study of the Mediterranean fin whale (Balaenoptera physalus).

PubMed

Fossi, Maria Cristina; Panti, Cristina; Guerranti, Cristiana; Coppola, Daniele; Giannetti, Matteo; Marsili, Letizia; Minutoli, Roberta

2012-11-01

Baleen whales are potentially exposed to micro-litter ingestion as a result of their filter-feeding activity. However, the impacts of microplastics on baleen whales are largely unknown. In this case study of the Mediterranean fin whale (Balaenoptera physalus), we explore the toxicological effects of microplastics on mysticetes. The study included the following three steps: (1) the collection/count of microplastics in the Pelagos Sanctuary (Mediterranean Sea), (2) the detection of phthalates in surface neustonic/planktonic samples, and (3) the detection of phthalates in stranded fin whales. A total of 56% of the surface neustonic/planktonic samples contained microplastic particles. The highest abundance of microplastics (9.63 items/m(3)) was found in the Portofino MPA (Ligurian Sea). High concentrations of phthalates (DEHP and MEHP) were detected in the neustonic/planktonic samples. The concentrations of MEHP found in the blubber of stranded fin whales suggested that phthalates could serve as a tracer of the intake of microplastics. The results of this study represent the first warning of this emerging threat to baleen whales. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

How bacteria hack the matrix and dodge the bullets of immunity.

PubMed

Paulsson, Magnus; Riesbeck, Kristian

2018-06-30

Haemophilus influenzae , Moraxella catarrhalis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa are common Gram-negative pathogens associated with an array of pulmonary diseases. All three species have multiple adhesins in their outer membrane, i.e. surface structures that confer the ability to bind to surrounding cells, proteins or tissues. This mini-review focuses on proteins with high affinity for the components of the extracellular matrix such as collagen, laminin, fibronectin and vitronectin. Adhesins are not structurally related and may be lipoproteins, transmembrane porins or large protruding trimeric auto-transporters. They enable bacteria to avoid being cleared together with mucus by attaching to patches of exposed extracellular matrix, or indirectly adhering to epithelial cells using matrix proteins as bridging molecules. As more adhesins are being unravelled, it is apparent that bacterial adhesion is a highly conserved mechanism, and that most adhesins target the same regions on the proteins of the extracellular matrix. The surface exposed adhesins are prime targets for new vaccines and the interactions between proteins are often possible to inhibit with interfering molecules, e.g heparin. In conclusion, this highly interesting research field of microbiology has unravelled host-pathogen interactions with high therapeutic potential. Copyright ©ERS 2018.

Toxic behavior of silver and zinc oxide nanoparticles on environmental microorganisms.

PubMed

Dhas, Sindhu Priya; Shiny, Punalur John; Khan, Sudheer; Mukherjee, Amitava; Chandrasekaran, Natrajan

2014-09-01

Silver and zinc oxide nanoparticles (Ag and ZnO NPs) are widely used as antimicrobial agents. However, their potential toxicological impact on environmental microorganisms is largely unexplored. The aim of this work was to investigate the sensitivity and adaptability of five bacterial species isolated from sewage towards Ag and ZnO NPs. The bacterial species were exposed to increasing concentration of nanoparticles and the growth inhibitory effect, exopolysaccharides (EPSs) and extracellular proteins (ECPs) productions were determined. The involvement of surface charge in nanoparticles toxicity was also determined. The bacterial species were constantly exposed to nanoparticles to determine the adaptation behavior toward nanoparticles. The nanoparticles exhibited remarkable growth inhibitory effect on tested bacterial species. The toxicity of nanoparticles was found to be strongly dependent on surface charge effects. Though, these organisms are highly sensitive to Ag and ZnO NPs, the continuous exposure to these nanoparticles leads to moderate adaptation of bacterial species and the adapted bacterial species convert the highly toxic nano form to less toxic microform. Finally we predict that the continuing applications of nanoparticles in consumer products may lead to the development of nanoparticles resistant bacterial strains in future. © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Effect of aggregate graining compositions on skid resistance of Exposed Aggregate Concrete pavement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wasilewska, Marta; Gardziejczyk, Wladysław; Gierasimiuk, Pawel

2018-05-01

The paper presents the evaluation of skid resistance of EAC (Exposed Aggregate Concrete) pavements which differ in aggregate graining compositions. The tests were carried out on concrete mixes with a maximum aggregate size of 8 mm. Three types of coarse aggregates were selected depending on their resistance to polishing which was determined on the basis of the PSV (Polished Stone Value). Basalt (PSV 48), gabbro (PSV 50) and trachybasalt (PSV 52) aggregates were chosen. For each type of aggregate three graining compositions were designed, which differed in the content of coarse aggregate > 4mm. Their content for each series was as follows: A - 38%, B - 50% and C - 68%. Evaluation of the skid resistance has been performed using the FAP (Friction After Polishing) test equipment also known as the Wehner/Schulze machine. Laboratory method enables to compare the skid resistance of different types of wearing course under specified conditions simulating polishing processes. In addition, macrotexture measurements were made on the surface of each specimen using the Elatexure laser profile. Analysis of variance showed that at significance level α = 0.05, aggregate graining compositions as well as the PSV have a significant influence on the obtained values of the friction coefficient μm of the tested EAC pavements. The highest values of the μm have been obtained for EAC with the lowest amount of coarse aggregates (compositions A). In these cases the resistance to polishing of the aggregate does not significantly affect the friction coefficients. This is related to the large areas of cement mortar between the exposed coarse grains. Based on the analysis of microscope images, it was observed that the coarse aggregates were not sufficiently exposed. It has been proved that PSV significantly affected the coefficient of friction in the case of compositions B and C. This is caused by large areas of exposed coarse aggregate. The best parameters were achieved for the EAC pavements with graining composition B and C and trachybasalt aggregate.

A Homology Model Reveals Novel Structural Features and an Immunodominant Surface Loop/Opsonic Target in the Treponema pallidum BamA Ortholog TP_0326

PubMed Central

Luthra, Amit; Anand, Arvind; Hawley, Kelly L.; LeDoyt, Morgan; La Vake, Carson J.; Caimano, Melissa J.; Cruz, Adriana R.; Salazar, Juan C.

2015-01-01

ABSTRACT We recently demonstrated that TP_0326 is a bona fide rare outer membrane protein (OMP) in Treponema pallidum and that it possesses characteristic BamA bipartite topology. Herein, we used immunofluorescence analysis (IFA) to show that only the β-barrel domain of TP_0326 contains surface-exposed epitopes in intact T. pallidum. Using the solved structure of Neisseria gonorrhoeae BamA, we generated a homology model of full-length TP_0326. Although the model predicts a typical BamA fold, the β-barrel harbors features not described in other BamAs. Structural modeling predicted that a dome comprised of three large extracellular loops, loop 4 (L4), L6, and L7, covers the barrel's extracellular opening. L4, the dome's major surface-accessible loop, contains mainly charged residues, while L7 is largely neutral and contains a polyserine tract in a two-tiered conformation. L6 projects into the β-barrel but lacks the VRGF/Y motif that anchors L6 within other BamAs. IFA and opsonophagocytosis assay revealed that L4 is surface exposed and an opsonic target. Consistent with B cell epitope predictions, immunoblotting and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) confirmed that L4 is an immunodominant loop in T. pallidum-infected rabbits and humans with secondary syphilis. Antibody capture experiments using Escherichia coli expressing OM-localized TP_0326 as a T. pallidum surrogate further established the surface accessibility of L4. Lastly, we found that a naturally occurring substitution (Leu593 → Gln593) in the L4 sequences of T. pallidum strains affects antibody binding in sera from syphilitic patients. Ours is the first study to employ a “structure-to-pathogenesis” approach to map the surface topology of a T. pallidum OMP within the context of syphilitic infection. IMPORTANCE Previously, we reported that TP_0326 is a bona fide rare outer membrane protein (OMP) in Treponema pallidum and that it possesses the bipartite topology characteristic of a BamA ortholog. Using a homology model as a guide, we found that TP_0326 displays unique features which presumably relate to its function(s) in the biogenesis of T. pallidum's unorthodox OM. The model also enabled us to identify an immunodominant epitope in a large extracellular loop that is both an opsonic target and subject to immune pressure in a human population. Ours is the first study to follow a structure-to-pathogenesis approach to map the surface topology of a T. pallidum rare OMP within the context of syphilitic infection. PMID:25825429

A hexahistidine-Zn2+-dye label reveals STIM1 surface exposure

PubMed Central

Hauser, Christina T.; Tsien, Roger Y.

2007-01-01

Site-specific fluorescent labeling of proteins in vivo remains one of the most powerful techniques for imaging complex processes in live cells. Although fluorescent proteins in many colors are useful tools for tracking expression and localization of fusion proteins in cells, these relatively large tags (>220 aa) can perturb protein folding, trafficking and function. Much smaller genetically encodable domains (<15 aa) offer complementary advantages. We introduce a small fluorescent chelator whose membrane-impermeant complex with nontoxic Zn2+ ions binds tightly but reversibly to hexahistidine (His6) motifs on surface-exposed proteins. This live-cell label helps to resolve a current controversy concerning externalization of the stromal interaction molecule STIM1 upon depletion of Ca2+ from the endoplasmic reticulum. Whereas N-terminal fluorescent protein fusions interfere with surface exposure of STIM1, short His6 tags are accessible to the dye or antibodies, demonstrating externalization. PMID:17360414

The Death Valley turtlebacks reinterpreted as Miocene­ Pliocene folds of a major detachment surface

USGS Publications Warehouse

Holm, Daniel K.; Fleck, Robert J.; Lux, Daniel R.

1994-01-01

Determining the origin of extension parallel folds in metamorphic core complexes is fundamental to understanding the development of detachment faults. An excellent example of such a feature occurs in the Death Valley region of California where a major, undulatory, detachment fault is exposed along the well-known turtleback (antiformal) surfaces of the Black Mountains. In the hanging wall of this detachment fault are deformed strata of the Copper Canyon Formation. New age constraints indicate that the Copper Canyon Formation was deposited from ~6 to 3 Ma. The formation was folded during deposition into a SE-plunging syncline with an axial surface coplanar with that of a synform in the underlying detachment. This relation suggests the turtlebacks are a folded detachment surface formed during large-scale extension in an overall constrictional strain field. The present, more planar, Black Mountains frontal fault system may be the result of out-stepping of a normal fault system away from an older detachment fault that was deactivated by folding.

Saturn's moon Rhea

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1980-01-01

NASA's Voyager 1 took this high resolution color image of Rhea just before the spacecraft's closest approach to the Saturnian moon on Nov. 12, 1980 from a range of 128,000 kilometers (79,500 miles). The area shown is one of the most heavily cratered on Rhea, and indicates an ancient surface dating back to the period immediately following the formation of the planets 4.5 billion years ago. The photograph shows surface features about 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles) in diameter, similar to a view of Earth's Moon through a telescope. Other areas of Rhea's surface are deficient in the very large (100 kilometers or 62 miles or larger) craters, indicating a change in the nature of the impacting bodies and an early period of surface activity. White areas on the edges of several of the craters in the upper right corner are probably fresh ice exposed on steep slopes or possibly deposited by volatiles leaking from fractured regions. The Voyager Project is managed for NASA by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, California.

Bulk contribution to magnetotransport properties of low-defect-density Bi2Te3 topological insulator thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ngabonziza, P.; Wang, Y.; Brinkman, A.

2018-04-01

An important challenge in the field of topological materials is to carefully disentangle the electronic transport contribution of the topological surface states from that of the bulk. For Bi2Te3 topological insulator samples, bulk single crystals and thin films exposed to air during fabrication processes are known to be bulk conducting, with the chemical potential in the bulk conduction band. For Bi2Te3 thin films grown by molecular beam epitaxy, we combine structural characterization (transmission electron microscopy), chemical surface analysis as function of time (x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy) and magnetotransport analysis to understand the low defect density and record high bulk electron mobility once charge is doped into the bulk by surface degradation. Carrier densities and electronic mobilities extracted from the Hall effect and the quantum oscillations are consistent and reveal a large bulk carrier mobility. Because of the cylindrical shape of the bulk Fermi surface, the angle dependence of the bulk magnetoresistance oscillations is two dimensional in nature.

Use of intrinsic fluorescent signals for characterizing tissue metabolic states in health and disease

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chance, Britton

1996-04-01

The large content of mitochondria in metabolizing cells, coupled with intrinsic NADH and flavoprotein signals makes these signals ideal for characterizing tissue metabolic states in health and disease. The first few millimeters of tissue are reached by the fluorescence excitation in the exposed surfaces of the cervix, bladder, rectum and esophagus, etc. Thus, extensive use has been made of fluorescent signals by a large number of investigators for tumor diagnosis from an empirical standpoint where the fluorescent signals are generally diminished in precancerous and cancerous tissue. This article reviews the biochemical basis for the fluorescent signals and points to a 'gold standard' for fluorescent signal examination involving freeze trapping and low temperature two- or three-dimensional high resolution fluorescence spectroscopy.

Raman Spectral Band Oscillations in Large Graphene Bubbles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Yuan; Wang, Xiao; Zhang, Xu; Chen, Xianjue; Li, Baowen; Wang, Bin; Huang, Ming; Zhu, Chongyang; Zhang, Xuewei; Bacsa, Wolfgang S.; Ding, Feng; Ruoff, Rodney S.

2018-05-01

Raman spectra of large graphene bubbles showed size-dependent oscillations in spectral intensity and frequency, which originate from optical standing waves formed in the vicinity of the graphene surface. At a high laser power, local heating can lead to oscillations in the Raman frequency and also create a temperature gradient in the bubble. Based on Raman data, the temperature distribution within the graphene bubble was calculated, and it is shown that the heating effect of the laser is reduced when moving from the center of a bubble to its edge. By studying graphene bubbles, both the thermal conductivity and chemical reactivity of graphene were assessed. When exposed to hydrogen plasma, areas with bubbles are found to be more reactive than flat graphene.

Bio-inspired colorimetric film based on hygroscopic coloration of longhorn beetles (Tmesisternus isabellae)

PubMed Central

Seo, Han-bok; Lee, Seung-Yop

2017-01-01

Structure-dependent colour is caused by the interaction of light with photonic crystal structures rather than pigments. The elytra of longhorn beetles Tmesisternus isabellae appear to be iridescent green in a dry state and turn to red when exposed to humidity. Based on the hygroscopic colouration of the longhorn beetle, we have developed centimeter-scale colorimetric opal films using a novel self-assembly method. The micro-channel assisted assembly technique adopts both natural evaporation and rotational forced drying, enhancing the surface binding of silica particles and the packing density by reducing the lattice constant and structural defects. The fabricated large-scale photonic film changes its structural colour from green to red when exposed to water vapour, similarly to the colorimetric feature of the longhorn beetle. The humidity-dependent colour change of the opal film is shown to be reversible and durable over five-hundred cycles of wetting and drying. PMID:28322307

Bio-inspired colorimetric film based on hygroscopic coloration of longhorn beetles (Tmesisternus isabellae)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seo, Han-Bok; Lee, Seung-Yop

2017-03-01

Structure-dependent colour is caused by the interaction of light with photonic crystal structures rather than pigments. The elytra of longhorn beetles Tmesisternus isabellae appear to be iridescent green in a dry state and turn to red when exposed to humidity. Based on the hygroscopic colouration of the longhorn beetle, we have developed centimeter-scale colorimetric opal films using a novel self-assembly method. The micro-channel assisted assembly technique adopts both natural evaporation and rotational forced drying, enhancing the surface binding of silica particles and the packing density by reducing the lattice constant and structural defects. The fabricated large-scale photonic film changes its structural colour from green to red when exposed to water vapour, similarly to the colorimetric feature of the longhorn beetle. The humidity-dependent colour change of the opal film is shown to be reversible and durable over five-hundred cycles of wetting and drying.

Developing Magnetorheological Finishing (MRF) Technology for the Manufacture of Large-Aperture Optics in Megajoule Class Laser Systems

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

Menapace, J A

2010-10-27

Over the last eight years we have been developing advanced MRF tools and techniques to manufacture meter-scale optics for use in Megajoule class laser systems. These systems call for optics having unique characteristics that can complicate their fabrication using conventional polishing methods. First, exposure to the high-power nanosecond and sub-nanosecond pulsed laser environment in the infrared (>27 J/cm{sup 2} at 1053 nm), visible (>18 J/cm{sup 2} at 527 nm), and ultraviolet (>10 J/cm{sup 2} at 351 nm) demands ultra-precise control of optical figure and finish to avoid intensity modulation and scatter that can result in damage to the optics chainmore » or system hardware. Second, the optics must be super-polished and virtually free of surface and subsurface flaws that can limit optic lifetime through laser-induced damage initiation and growth at the flaw sites, particularly at 351 nm. Lastly, ultra-precise optics for beam conditioning are required to control laser beam quality. These optics contain customized surface topographical structures that cannot be made using traditional fabrication processes. In this review, we will present the development and implementation of large-aperture MRF tools and techniques specifically designed to meet the demanding optical performance challenges required in large-aperture high-power laser systems. In particular, we will discuss the advances made by using MRF technology to expose and remove surface and subsurface flaws in optics during final polishing to yield optics with improve laser damage resistance, the novel application of MRF deterministic polishing to imprint complex topographical information and wavefront correction patterns onto optical surfaces, and our efforts to advance the technology to manufacture large-aperture damage resistant optics.« less

Modification of the Surface Properties of Polyimide Films using POSS Deposition and Oxygen Plasma Exposure

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wohl, Christopher J.; Belcher, Marcus A.; Ghose, Sayata; Connell, John W.

2008-01-01

Topographically rich surfaces were generated by spray-coating organic solutions of a polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane, octakis (dimethylsilyloxy) silsesquioxane (POSS), on Kapton HN films and exposing them to radio frequency generated oxygen plasma. Changes in both surface chemistry and topography were observed. High-resolution scanning electron microscopy indicated substantial modification of the POSS-coated polyimide surface topographies as a result of oxygen plasma exposure. Water contact angles varied from 104 deg for unexposed POSS-coated surfaces to approximately 5 deg, for samples exposed for 5 h. Modulation of the dispersive and polar contributions to the surface energy was determined using van Oss Good Chaudhury theory.

Space environment and lunar surface processes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Comstock, G. M.

1979-01-01

The development of a general rock/soil model capable of simulating in a self consistent manner the mechanical and exposure history of an assemblage of solid and loose material from submicron to planetary size scales, applicable to lunar and other space exposed planetary surfaces is discussed. The model was incorporated into a computer code called MESS.2 (model for the evolution of space exposed surfaces). MESS.2, which represents a considerable increase in sophistication and scope over previous soil and rock surface models, is described. The capabilities of previous models for near surface soil and rock surfaces are compared with the rock/soil model, MESS.2.

Apparatus and method for carbon fiber surface treatment

DOEpatents

Paulauskas, Felix L; Sherman, Daniel M

2014-06-03

An apparatus and method for enhancing the surface energy and/or surface chemistry of carbon fibers involves exposing the fibers to direct or indirect contact with atmospheric pressure plasma generated using a background gas containing at least some oxygen or other reactive species. The fiber may be exposed directly to the plasma, provided that the plasma is nonfilamentary, or the fiber may be exposed indirectly through contact with gases exhausting from a plasma discharge maintained in a separate volume. In either case, the process is carried out at or near atmospheric pressure, thereby eliminating the need for vacuum equipment. The process may be further modified by moistening the fibers with selected oxygen-containing liquids before exposure to the plasma.

Apparatus and method for carbon fiber surface treatment

DOEpatents

Paulauskas, Felix L [Knoxville, TN; Sherman, Daniel M [Knoxville, TN

2012-07-24

An apparatus and method for enhancing the surface energy and/or surface chemistry of carbon fibers involves exposing the fibers to direct or indirect contact with atmospheric pressure plasma generated using a background gas containing at least some oxygen or other reactive species. The fiber may be exposed directly to the plasma, provided that the plasma is nonfilamentary, or the fiber may be exposed indirectly through contact with gases exhausting from a plasma discharge maintained in a separate volume. In either case, the process is carried out at or near atmospheric pressure, thereby eliminating the need for vacuum equipment. The process may be further modified by moistening the fibers with selected oxygen-containing liquids before exposure to the plasma.

Optical and Scanning Electron Microscopy of the Materials International Space Station Experiment (MISSE) Spacecraft Silicone Experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hung, Ching-cheh; de Groh, Kim K.; Banks, Bruce A.

2012-01-01

Under a microscope, atomic oxygen (AO) exposed silicone surfaces are crazed and seen as "islands" separated by numerous crack lines, much analogous to mud-tile cracks. This research characterized and compared the degree of AO degradation of silicones by analyzing optical microscope images of samples exposed to low Earth orbit (LEO) AO as part of the Spacecraft Silicone Experiment. The Spacecraft Silicone Experiment consisted of eight DC 93-500 silicone samples exposed to eight different AO fluence levels (ranged from 1.46 to 8.43 10(exp 21) atoms/sq cm) during two different Materials International Space Station Experiment (MISSE) missions. Image analysis software was used to analyze images taken using a digital camera. To describe the morphological degradation of each AO exposed flight sample, three different parameters were selected and estimated: (1) average area of islands was determined and found to be in the 1000 to 3100 sq mm range; (2) total length of crack lines per unit area of the sample surface were determined and found to be in the range of 27 to 59 mm of crack length per sq mm of sample surface; and (3) the fraction of sample surface area that is occupied by crack lines was determined and found to be in the 25 to 56 percent range. In addition, average crack width can be estimated from crack length and crack area measurements and was calculated to be about 10 mm. Among the parameters studied, the fraction of sample surface area that is occupied by crack lines is believed to be most useful in characterizing the degree of silicone conversion to silicates by AO because its value steadily increases with increasing fluence over the entire fluence range. A series of SEM images from the eight samples exposed to different AO fluences suggest a complex sequence of surface stress due to surface shrinkage and crack formation, followed by re-distribution of stress and shrinking rate on the sample surface. Energy dispersive spectra (EDS) indicated that upon AO exposure, carbon content on the surface decreased relatively quickly at the beginning, to 32 percent of the pristine value for the least exposed sample in this set of experiments (1.46 10(exp 21) atoms/sq cm), but then decreased slowly, to 22 percent of the pristine value for the most exposed sample in this set of experiment (8.43 10(exp 21) atoms/sq cm). The oxygen content appears to increase at a slower rate. The least and most AO exposed samples were, respectively, 52 and 150 percent above the pristine values. The silicone samples with the greater AO exposure (7.75 10(exp 21) atoms/sq cm and higher) appear to have a surface layer which contains SiO2 with perhaps small amounts of unreacted silicone, CO and CO2 sealed inside.

Large Area Solid Radiochemistry (LASR) collector at the National Ignition Facility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Waltz, Cory; Gharibyan, Narek; Hardy, Mike; Shaughnessy, Dawn; Jedlovec, Don; Smith, Cal

2017-08-01

The flux of neutrons and charged particles produced from inertial confinement fusion experiments at the National Ignition Facility (NIF) induces measurable concentrations of nuclear reaction products in various target materials. The collection and radiochemical analysis of the post-shot debris can be utilized as an implosion diagnostic to obtain information regarding fuel areal density and ablator-fuel mixing. Furthermore, assessment of the debris from specially designed targets, material doped in capsules or mounted on the external surface of the target assembly, can support experiments relevant to nuclear forensic research. To collect the shot debris, we have deployed the Large Area Solid Radiochemistry Collector (LASR) at NIF. LASR uses a main collector plate that contains a large collection foil with an exposed 20 cm diameter surface located ˜50 cm from the NIF target. This covers ˜0.12 steradians, or about 1% of the total solid angle. We will describe the design, analysis, and operation of this experimental platform as well as the initial results. To speed up the design process 3-dimensional printing was utilized. Design analysis includes the dynamic loading of the NIF target vaporized mass, which was modeled using LS-DYNA.

Experimental determination of photostability and fluorescence-based detection of PAHs on the Martian surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dartnell, Lewis R.; Patel, Manish R.; Storrie-Lombardi, Michael C.; Ward, John M.; Muller, Jan-Peter

2012-05-01

Even in the absence of any biosphere on Mars, organic molecules, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), are expected on its surface due to delivery by comets and meteorites of extraterrestrial organics synthesized by astrochemistry, or perhaps in situ synthesis in ancient prebiotic chemistry. Any organic compounds exposed to the unfiltered solar ultraviolet spectrum or oxidizing surface conditions would have been readily destroyed, but discoverable caches of Martian organics may remain shielded in the subsurface or within surface rocks. We have studied the stability of three representative polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in a Mars chamber, emulating the ultraviolet spectrum of unfiltered sunlight under temperature and pressure conditions of the Martian surface. Fluorescence spectroscopy is used as a sensitive indicator of remaining PAH concentration for laboratory quantification of molecular degradation rates once exposed on the Martian surface. Fluorescence-based instrumentation has also been proposed as an effective surveying method for prebiotic organics on the Martian surface. We find the representative PAHs, anthracene, pyrene, and perylene, to have persistence half-lives once exposed on the Martian surface of between 25 and 60 h of noontime summer UV irradiation, as measured by fluorescence at their peak excitation wavelength. This equates to between 4 and 9.6 sols when the diurnal cycle of UV light intensity on the Martian surface is taken into account, giving a substantial window of opportunity for detection of organic fluorescence before photodegradation. This study thus supports the use of fluorescence-based instrumentation for surveying recently exposed material (such as from cores or drill tailings) for native Martian organic molecules in rover missions.

Comparative ecotoxicity of polystyrene nanoparticles in natural seawater and reconstituted seawater using the rotifer Brachionus plicatilis.

PubMed

Manfra, L; Rotini, A; Bergami, E; Grassi, G; Faleri, C; Corsi, I

2017-11-01

The impact of nanoplastics using model polystyrene nanoparticles (PS NPs), anionic (PS-COOH) and cationic (PS-NH 2 ), has been investigated on the marine rotifer Brachionus plicatilis, a major component of marine zooplanktonic species. The role of different surface charges in affecting PS NP behaviour and toxicity has been considered in high ionic strength media. To this aim, the selected media were standardized reconstituted seawater (RSW) and natural sea water (NSW), the latter resembling more natural exposure scenarios. Hatched rotifer larvae were exposed for 24h and 48h to both PS NPs in the range of 0.5-50μg/ml using PS NP suspensions made in RSW and NSW. No effects on lethality upon exposure to anionic NPs were observed despite a clear gut retention was evident in all exposed rotifers. On the contrary, cationic NPs caused lethality to rotifer larvae but LC 50 values resulted lower in rotifers exposed in RSW (LC 50 =2.75±0.67µg/ml) compared to those exposed in NSW (LC 50 =6.62±0.87µg/ml). PS NPs showed similar pattern of aggregation in both high ionic strength media (RSW and NSW) but while anionic NPs resulted in large microscale aggregates (Z-average 1109 ± 128nm and 998±67nm respectively), cationic NP aggregates were still in nano-size forms (93.99 ± 11.22nm and 108.3 ± 12.79nm). Both PDI and Z-potential of PS NPs slightly differed in the two media suggesting a role of their different surface charges in affecting their behaviour and stability. Our findings confirm the role of surface charges in nanoplastic behaviour in salt water media and provide a first evidence of a different toxicity in rotifers using artificial media (RSW) compared to natural one (NSW). Such evidence poses the question on how to select the best medium in standardized ecotoxicity assays in order to properly assess their hazard to marine life in natural environmental scenarios. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Leaf size and surface characteristics of Betula papyrifera exposed to elevated CO2 and O3

Treesearch

Johanna Riikonen; Kevin E. Percy; Minna Kivimaenpaa; Mark E. Kubiske; Neil D. Nelson; Elina Vapaavuori; David F. Karnosky

2010-01-01

Betula papyrifera trees were exposed to elevated concentrations of CO2 (1.4 x ambient), O3 (1.2 x ambient) or CO2 + O3 at the Aspen Free-air CO2 Enrichment Experiment. The treatment effects on leaf surface characteristics were studied...

30 CFR 57.22218 - Seals and stoppings (III, V-A, and V-B mines).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... materials may be used in face areas. (b) Exposed surfaces on the intake side of stoppings constructed of... construction shall be solid. (c) Exposed surfaces on the fresh air side of seals constructed of combustible... other coatings with equivalent fire resistance. Stoppings constructed to phenolic foam blocks at least...

30 CFR 57.22218 - Seals and stoppings (III, V-A, and V-B mines).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... materials may be used in face areas. (b) Exposed surfaces on the intake side of stoppings constructed of... construction shall be solid. (c) Exposed surfaces on the fresh air side of seals constructed of combustible... other coatings with equivalent fire resistance. Stoppings constructed to phenolic foam blocks at least...

30 CFR 57.22218 - Seals and stoppings (III, V-A, and V-B mines).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... materials may be used in face areas. (b) Exposed surfaces on the intake side of stoppings constructed of... construction shall be solid. (c) Exposed surfaces on the fresh air side of seals constructed of combustible... other coatings with equivalent fire resistance. Stoppings constructed to phenolic foam blocks at least...

Wettability of naturally aged silicone and EPDM composite insulators

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

Gubanski, S.M.; Vlastos, A.E.

1990-07-01

This paper reports the wettability of aged surfaces and of the bulk of naturally aged silicone and EPDM insulator housings and of silicone elastomer insulator coatings studied. The samples were taken either directly from the insulators or treated by exposing them to corona discharges and/or to saline pollution. The results show that the contact angles of the silicone rubber insulator surfaces are larger than the contact angles of the RTV silicone rubber coating and of the EPDM rubber insulator surfaces, especially when the surfaces are aged. When the insulators were exposed to corona discharges, the contact angles of the siliconemore » rubber insulators are reduced but after the exposure they recover with time. The contact angles of the EPDM rubber insulators, however, after the exposure, continue to reduce. When exposed to artificial saline pollution, the silicone rubber insulators show a limited recovery of their contact angles with time, while, when exposed to corona discharge, they show a recovery of the contact angle after the exposure. The time for recovery is dependent on the exposure time to the corona discharges.« less

Mitigation of radiation induced surface contamination

DOEpatents

Klebanoff, Leonard E.; Stulen, Richard H.

2003-01-01

A process for mitigating or eliminating contamination and/or degradation of surfaces having common, adventitious atmospheric contaminants adsorbed thereon and exposed to radiation. A gas or a mixture of gases is introduced into the environment of a surface(s) to be protected. The choice of the gaseous species to be introduced (typically a hydrocarbon gas, water vapor, or oxygen or mixtures thereof) is dependent upon the contaminant as well as the ability of the gaseous species to bind to the surface to be protected. When the surface and associated bound species are exposed to radiation reactive species are formed that react with surface contaminants such as carbon or oxide films to form volatile products (e.g., CO, CO.sub.2) which desorb from the surface.

Structural Controls of the Friction Constitutive Properties of Carbonate-bearing Faults

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carpenter, B. M.; Collettini, C.; Scuderi, M.; Marone, C.

2012-12-01

The identification of hetereogenous and complex post-seismic slip for the 2009, Mw = 6.3, L'Aquila earthquake highlights the importance of fault zone structure and frictional behavior. Many of the Mw 6 to 7 earthquakes that occur on normal faults in the active Apennines, such as L'Aquila, nucleate at depths where the lithology is dominated by carbonate rocks. Due to the complex structure observed in exhumed faults (i.e. the presence of highly polished principal slip surfaces, cemented cataclasites, and phyllosilicate-bearing, foliated fault gouge) as well as the large spectrum of fault slip behaviors identified world wide, we designed a suite of experiments using intact and powdered samples to better constrain the possible slip behaviors of these carbonate bearing faults. We collected samples from the exposed Rocchetta Fault, a ~10km long, normal fault with approximately 600m of total offset. The exposed principal slip surface cuts through the Calcare Massiccio formation, which is present throughout central Italy at depths of earthquake nucleation. We collected intact specimens of the natural slip surface and cemented cataclasite, as well as fragments of both which were later pulverized. Furthermore, we collected an intact sample of the hanging wall cataclasite and footwall limestone that contained the principal slip surface. We performed friction experiments in a variety of different configurations (slip surface on slip surface, slip surface on powdered cataclasite, etc.) in order to investigate heterogeneity in frictional behavior as controlled by fault structure. We sheared saturated samples at a constant normal stress of 10 MPa at room temperature. Velocity-stepping tests were performed from 1 to 300 μm/s to identify the friction constitutive parameters of this fault material. Furthermore, a series slide-hold-slide tests were performed (holds of 3 to 1000 seconds) to measure the amount of frictional healing and determine the frictional healing rate. Results from experiments designed to reactivate slip between the principal slip surface and cemented cataclasite show a peak friction value of ~0.95 followed by a ~3 MPa stress drop as the fault surface fails. Our other results suggest that earthquakes will easily nucleate in areas of the fault where two slip surfaces are in contact and are likely to propagate in areas where pulverized fault gouge is in contact with the slip surface. Our data show that samples collected from a single fault can exhibit a large range of slip behaviors. Heterogeneous frictional behavior documented in the lab must be combined with field observations of complex fault structure and seismological observations of the different modes of fault slip to further our understanding of fault slip. Future work will consist of thin section and XRD analysis of all experimental material.

Core-level photoemission investigation of atomic-fluorine adsorption on GaAs(110)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McLean, A. B.; Terminello, L. J.; McFeely, F. R.

1989-12-01

The adsorption of atomic F on the cleaved GaAs(110) surface has been studied with use of high-resolution core-level photoelectron spectroscopy by exposing the GaAs(110) surfaces to XeF2, which adsorbs dissociatively, leaving atomic F behind. This surface reaction produces two chemically shifted components in the Ga 3d core-level emission which are attributed to an interfacial monofluoride and a stable trifluoride reaction product, respectively. The As 3d core level develops only one chemically shifted component and from its exposure-dependent behavior it is attributed to an interfacial monofluoride. Least-squares analysis of the core-level line shapes revealed that (i) the F bonds to both the anion and the cation , (ii) the GaF3 component (characteristic of strong interfacial reaction) and the surface core-level shifted component (characteristic of a well ordered, atomically clean surface) are present together over a relatively large range of XeF2 exposures, and (iii) it is the initial disruption of the GaAs(110) surface that is the rate-limiting step in this surface reaction. These results are compared with similar studies of Cl and O adsorption on GaAs(110).

Morphology effect on photocatalytic activity in Bi3Fe0.5Nb1.5O9.

PubMed

Yin, Xiaofeng; Li, Xiaoning; Gu, Wen; Zou, Wei; Liu, Huan; Zhu, Liuyang; Fu, Zhengping; Lu, Yalin

2018-06-29

In this work, the Aurivillius-phase ferroelectric Bi 3 Fe 0.5 Nb 1.5 O 9 were synthesized by hydrothermal (BFNO-H) and solid state methods (BFNO-S), respectively. The BFNO-H shows a hierarchical morphology, which is stacked by intersecting single-crystal nanosheets with {001} and {110} exposed facets, while the BFNO-S shows disorganized micron-scale morphology. BFNO-H shows a much stronger photodegradation activity (10.4 times and 9.8 times) than BFNO-S in the visible-light photodegradation of rhodamine B (RhB) and salicylic acid. The higher photodegradation activity of BFNO-H was firstly ascribed to the hierarchical structure and the larger specific surface area (16.586 m 2 g -1 ) because a large specific surface area can increase reactive sites and shorten photogenerated carrier migration distance. However, after being normalized by the specific surface area, BFNO-H still performs better than BFNO-S, implying that the specific surface area is not the only factor that determines the photocatalytic activity. Considering that the built-in electric field originating from spontaneous polarization in Bi 3 Fe 0.5 Nb 1.5 O 9 has existed in both ab plane and c direction, it matches well with the {001} and {110} exposed facets of BFNO-H nanosheets. This appropriate matching in BFNO-H nanosheets may improve the separation and transmission of photogenerated electron-hole pairs and further enhance its photocatalytic activity. Moreover, the trapping experiments reveals that holes (h + ) are the main active species and hole-derived oxidation is the main redox reaction during photodegradation of organic pollutions.

Roles of Thermophiles and Fungi in Bitumen Degradation in Mostly Cold Oil Sands Outcrops

PubMed Central

Wong, Man-Ling; An, Dongshan; Caffrey, Sean M.; Soh, Jung; Dong, Xiaoli; Sensen, Christoph W.; Oldenburg, Thomas B. P.; Larter, Steve R.

2015-01-01

Oil sands are surface exposed in river valley outcrops in northeastern Alberta, where flat slabs (tablets) of weathered, bitumen-saturated sandstone can be retrieved from outcrop cliffs or from riverbeds. Although the average yearly surface temperature of this region is low (0.7°C), we found that the temperatures of the exposed surfaces of outcrop cliffs reached 55 to 60°C on sunny summer days, with daily maxima being 27 to 31°C. Analysis of the cooccurrence of taxa derived from pyrosequencing of 16S/18S rRNA genes indicated that an aerobic microbial network of fungi and hydrocarbon-, methane-, or acetate-oxidizing heterotrophic bacteria was present in all cliff tablets. Metagenomic analyses indicated an elevated presence of fungal cytochrome P450 monooxygenases in these samples. This network was distinct from the heterotrophic community found in riverbeds, which included fewer fungi. A subset of cliff tablets had a network of anaerobic and/or thermophilic taxa, including methanogens, Firmicutes, and Thermotogae, in the center. Long-term aerobic incubation of outcrop samples at 55°C gave a thermophilic microbial community. Analysis of residual bitumen with a Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometer indicated that aerobic degradation proceeded at 55°C but not at 4°C. Little anaerobic degradation was observed. These results indicate that bitumen degradation on outcrop surfaces is a largely aerobic process with a minor anaerobic contribution and is catalyzed by a consortium of bacteria and fungi. Bitumen degradation is stimulated by periodic high temperatures on outcrop cliffs, which cause significant decreases in bitumen viscosity. PMID:26209669

Morphology effect on photocatalytic activity in Bi3Fe0.5Nb1.5O9

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yin, Xiaofeng; Li, Xiaoning; Gu, Wen; Zou, Wei; Liu, Huan; Zhu, Liuyang; Fu, Zhengping; Lu, Yalin

2018-06-01

In this work, the Aurivillius-phase ferroelectric Bi3Fe0.5Nb1.5O9 were synthesized by hydrothermal (BFNO-H) and solid state methods (BFNO-S), respectively. The BFNO-H shows a hierarchical morphology, which is stacked by intersecting single-crystal nanosheets with {001} and {110} exposed facets, while the BFNO-S shows disorganized micron-scale morphology. BFNO-H shows a much stronger photodegradation activity (10.4 times and 9.8 times) than BFNO-S in the visible-light photodegradation of rhodamine B (RhB) and salicylic acid. The higher photodegradation activity of BFNO-H was firstly ascribed to the hierarchical structure and the larger specific surface area (16.586 m2 g‑1) because a large specific surface area can increase reactive sites and shorten photogenerated carrier migration distance. However, after being normalized by the specific surface area, BFNO-H still performs better than BFNO-S, implying that the specific surface area is not the only factor that determines the photocatalytic activity. Considering that the built-in electric field originating from spontaneous polarization in Bi3Fe0.5Nb1.5O9 has existed in both ab plane and c direction, it matches well with the {001} and {110} exposed facets of BFNO-H nanosheets. This appropriate matching in BFNO-H nanosheets may improve the separation and transmission of photogenerated electron–hole pairs and further enhance its photocatalytic activity. Moreover, the trapping experiments reveals that holes (h +) are the main active species and hole-derived oxidation is the main redox reaction during photodegradation of organic pollutions.

Interrelationships among Grain Size, Surface Composition, Air Stability, and Interfacial Resistance of Al-Substituted Li7La3Zr2O12 Solid Electrolytes.

PubMed

Cheng, Lei; Wu, Cheng Hao; Jarry, Angelique; Chen, Wei; Ye, Yifan; Zhu, Junfa; Kostecki, Robert; Persson, Kristin; Guo, Jinghua; Salmeron, Miquel; Chen, Guoying; Doeff, Marca

2015-08-19

The interfacial resistances of symmetrical lithium cells containing Al-substituted Li7La3Zr2O12 (LLZO) solid electrolytes are sensitive to their microstructures and histories of exposure to air. Air exposure of LLZO samples with large grain sizes (∼150 μm) results in dramatically increased interfacial impedances in cells containing them, compared to those with pristine large-grained samples. In contrast, a much smaller difference is seen between cells with small-grained (∼20 μm) pristine and air-exposed LLZO samples. A combination of soft X-ray absorption (sXAS) and Raman spectroscopy, with probing depths ranging from nanometer to micrometer scales, revealed that the small-grained LLZO pellets are more air-stable than large-grained ones, forming far less surface Li2CO3 under both short- and long-term exposure conditions. Surface sensitive X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) indicates that the better chemical stability of the small-grained LLZO is related to differences in the distribution of Al and Li at sample surfaces. Density functional theory calculations show that LLZO can react via two different pathways to form Li2CO3. The first, more rapid, pathway involves a reaction with moisture in air to form LiOH, which subsequently absorbs CO2 to form Li2CO3. The second, slower, pathway involves direct reaction with CO2 and is favored when surface lithium contents are lower, as with the small-grained samples. These observations have important implications for the operation of solid-state lithium batteries containing LLZO because the results suggest that the interfacial impedances of these devices is critically dependent upon specific characteristics of the solid electrolyte and how it is prepared.

Geomorphology of coal seam fires

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuenzer, Claudia; Stracher, Glenn B.

2012-02-01

Coal fires occur in underground natural coal seams, in exposed surface seams, and in coal storage or waste piles. The fires ignite through spontaneous combustion or natural or anthropogenic causes. They are reported from China, India, USA, South Africa, Australia, and Russia, as well as many other countries. Coal fires lead to loss of a valuable resource (coal), the emission of greenhouse-relevant and toxic gases, and vegetation deterioration. A dangerous aspect of the fires is the threat to local mines, industries, and settlements through the volume loss underground. Surface collapse in coal fire areas is common. Thus, coal fires are significantly affecting the evolution of the landscape. Based on more than a decade of experience with in situ mapping of coal fire areas worldwide, a general classification system for coal fires is presented. Furthermore, coal seam fire geomorphology is explained in detail. The major landforms associated with, and induced by, these fires are presented. The landforms include manifestations resulting from bedrock surface fracturing, such as fissures, cracks, funnels, vents, and sponges. Further manifestations resulting from surface bedrock subsidence include sinkholes, trenches, depressions, partial surface subsidence, large surface subsidence, and slides. Additional geomorphologic coal fire manifestations include exposed ash layers, pyrometamorphic rocks, and fumarolic minerals. The origin, evolution, and possible future development of these features are explained, and examples from in situ surveys, as well as from high-resolution satellite data analyses, are presented. The geomorphology of coal fires has not been presented in a systematic manner. Knowledge of coal fire geomorphology enables the detection of underground coal fires based on distinct surface manifestations. Furthermore, it allows judgments about the safety of coal fire-affected terrain. Additionally, geomorphologic features are indicators of the burning stage of fires. Finally, coal fire geomorphology helps to explain landscape features whose occurrence would otherwise not be understood. Although coal fire-induced thermal anomalies and gas release are also indications of coal fire activity, as addressed by many investigators, no assessment is complete without sound geomorphologic mapping of the fire-induced geomorphologic features.

Extenstional terrain formation in icy satellites: Implications for ocean-surface interaction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Howell, Samuel M.; Pappalardo, Robert T.

2017-10-01

Europa and Ganymede, Galilean satellites of Jupiter, exhibit geologic activity in their outer H2O ice shells that might convey material from water oceans within the satellites to their surfaces. Imagery from the Voyager and Galileo spacecraft reveal surfaces rich with tectonic deformation, including dilational bands on Europa and groove lanes on Ganymede. These features are generally attributed to the extension of a brittle ice lithosphere overlaying a possibly convecting ice asthenosphere. To explore band formation and interaction with interior oceans, we employ fully visco-elasto-plastic 2-D models of faulting and convection with complex, realistic pure ice rheologies. In these models, material entering from below is tracked and considered to be “fossilized ocean,” ocean material that has frozen into the ice shell and evolves through geologic time. We track the volume fraction of fossil ocean material in the ice shell as a function of depth, and the exposure of both fresh ice and fossil ocean material at the ice shell surface. To explore the range in extensional terrains, we vary ice shell thickness, fault localization, melting-temperature ice viscosity, and the presence of pre-existing weaknesses. Mechanisms which act to weaken the ice shell and thin the lithosphere (e.g. vigorous convection, thinner shells, pre-existing weaknesses) tend to plastically yield to form smooth bands at high strains, and are more likely to incorporate fossil ocean material in the ice shell and expose it at the surface. In contrast, lithosphere strengthened by rapid fault annealing or increased viscosity, for example, exhibits large-scale tectonic rifting at low strains superimposed over pre-existing terrains, and inhibits the incorporation and delivery of fossil ocean material to the surface. Thus, our results identify a spectrum of extensional terrain formation mechanisms as linked to lithospheric strength, rather than specific mechanisms that are unique to each type of band, and discuss where in this spectrum ocean material incorporated at the bottom of the ice shell may be exposed on the satellite surface.

Extensional terrain formation on Europa and Ganymede: Implications for ocean-surface interaction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Howell, S. M.; Pappalardo, R. T.

2017-12-01

Europa and Ganymede, Galilean satellites of Jupiter, exhibit geologic activity in their outer H2O ice shells that might convey material from water oceans within the satellites to their surfaces. Imagery from the Voyager and Galileo spacecraft reveal surfaces rich with tectonic deformation, including dilational bands on Europa and groove lanes on Ganymede. These features are generally attributed to the extension of a brittle ice lithosphere overlaying a possibly convecting ice asthenosphere. To explore band formation and interaction with interior oceans, we employ fully visco-elasto-plastic 2-D models of faulting and convection with complex, realistic pure ice rheologies. In these models, material entering from below is tracked and considered to be "fossilized ocean," ocean material that has frozen into the ice shell and evolves through geologic time. We track the volume fraction of fossil ocean material in the ice shell as a function of depth, and the exposure of both fresh ice and fossil ocean material at the ice shell surface. We vary ice shell thickness, fault localization, melting-temperature ice viscosity, and the presence of pre-existing weaknesses. Mechanisms which act to weaken the ice shell and thin the lithosphere (e.g. vigorous convection, thinner shells, pre-existing weaknesses) tend to plastically yield to form smooth bands at high strains, and are more likely to incorporate fossil ocean material in the ice shell and expose it at the surface. In contrast, lithosphere strengthened by rapid fault annealing or increased viscosity, for example, exhibits large-scale tectonic rifting at low strains superimposed over pre-existing terrains, and inhibits the incorporation and delivery of fossil ocean material to the surface. Thus, our results identify a spectrum of extensional terrain formation mechanisms as linked to lithospheric strength, rather than any specific mechanism being unique to each type of band, and where in this spectrum ocean material incorporated at the bottom of the ice shell may be exposed on the satellite surface.

Linking playa surface dust emission potential to feedbacks between surface moisture and salt crust expansion through high resolution terrestrial laser scanning measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nield, J. M.; King, J.; Wiggs, G.

2012-12-01

The dust emissivity of salt pans (or playas) can be significant but is controlled by interactions between wind erosivity, surface moisture, salt chemistry and crust morphology. These surface properties influence the aeolian transport threshold and can be highly variable over both short temporal and spatial scales. In the past, field studies have been hampered by practical difficulties in accurately measuring properties controlling sediment availability at the surface in high resolution. Studies typically therefore, have investigated large scale monthly or seasonal change using remote sensing and assume a homogeneous surface when predicting dust emissivity. Here we present the first high resolution measurements (sub-cm) of salt crust expansion related to changes in diurnal moisture over daily and weekly time periods using terrestrial laser scanning (TLS, ground-based LiDAR) on Sua Pan, Botswana. The TLS measures both elevation and relative surface moisture change simultaneously, without disturbing the surface. Measurement sequences enable the variability in aeolian sediment availability to be quantified along with temporal feedbacks associated with crust degradation. On crusts with well-developed polygon ridges (high aerodynamic and surface roughness), daily surface expansion was greater than 30mm. The greatest surface change occurred overnight on the upper, exposed sections of the ridges, particularly when surface temperatures dropping below 10°C. These areas also experienced the greatest moisture variation and became increasingly moist overnight in response to an increase in relative humidity. In contrast, during daylight hours, the ridge areas were drier than the lower lying inter-ridge areas. Positive feedbacks between surface topography and moisture reinforced the maximum diurnal moisture variation at ridge peaks, encouraging crust thrusting due to overnight salt hydration, further enhancing the surface, and therefore, aerodynamic roughness. These feedbacks between surface roughness and moisture have implications for dust emissivity because crust expansion increases fluff production which is one of the main dust source materials. Further, increased roughness can locally increase wind erosivity and the potential evaporation of ridge areas. Crust thrusting also weakens the ridge peaks, developing cracked surfaces and exposing the sediment supply source below. These fast acting processes can have a major influence on wind erosion variability and dust emissivity from key dust source regions.; a-d) Elevation change overnight. e-f) Elevation change over 6 days.

Staphylococcal surface display of metal-binding polyhistidyl peptides

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

Samuelson, P.; Wernerus, H.; Svedberg, M.

2000-03-01

Recombinant Staphylococcus xylosus and Staphylococcus carnosus strains were generated with surface-exposed chimeric proteins containing polyhistidyl peptides designed for binding to divalent metal ions. Surface accessibility of the chimeric surface proteins was demonstrated and the chimeric surface proteins were found to be functional in terms of metal binding, since the recombinant staphylococcal cells were shown to have gained Ni{sup 2+}- and Cd{sup 2+}-binding capacity, suggesting that such bacteria could find use in bioremediation of heavy metals. This is, to their knowledge, the first time that recombinant, surface-exposed metal-binding peptides have been expressed on gram-positive bacteria. Potential environmental or biosensor applications formore » such recombinant staphylococci as biosorbents are discussed.« less

Scientific Investigations Associated with the Human Exploration of Mars in the Next 35 Years

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Niles, P. B.; Beaty, David; Hays, Lindsay; Bass, Deborah; Bell, Mary Sue; Bleacher, Jake; Cabrol, Nathalie A.; Conrad, Pan; Eppler, Dean; Hamilton, Vicky;

Ultralow energy ion beam surface modification of low density polyethylene.

PubMed

Shenton, Martyn J; Bradley, James W; van den Berg, Jaap A; Armour, David G; Stevens, Gary C

2005-12-01

Ultralow energy Ar+ and O+ ion beam irradiation of low density polyethylene has been carried out under controlled dose and monoenergetic conditions. XPS of Ar+-treated surfaces exposed to ambient atmosphere show that the bombardment of 50 eV Ar+ ions at a total dose of 10(16) cm(-2) gives rise to very reactive surfaces with oxygen incorporation at about 50% of the species present in the upper surface layer. Using pure O+ beam irradiation, comparatively low O incorporation is achieved without exposure to atmosphere (approximately 13% O in the upper surface). However, if the surface is activated by Ar+ pretreatment, then large oxygen contents can be achieved under subsequent O+ irradiation (up to 48% O). The results show that for very low energy (20 eV) oxygen ions there is a dose threshold of about 5 x 10(15) cm(-2) before surface oxygen incorporation is observed. It appears that, for both Ar+ and O+ ions in this regime, the degree of surface modification is only very weakly dependent on the ion energy. The results suggest that in the nonequilibrium plasma treatment of polymers, where the ion flux is typically 10(18) m(-2) s(-1), low energy ions (<50 eV) may be responsible for surface chemical modification.

Unraveling Gardnerella vaginalis Surface Proteins Using Cell Shaving Proteomics.

PubMed

Marín, Elvira; Haesaert, Annelies; Padilla, Laura; Adán, Jaume; Hernáez, María L; Monteoliva, Lucía; Gil, Concha

2018-01-01

Gardnerella vaginalis is one of the main etiologic agents of bacterial vaginosis (BV). This infection is responsible for a wide range of public health costs and is associated with several adverse outcomes during pregnancy. Improving our understanding of G. vaginalis protein cell surface will assist in BV diagnosis. This study represents the first proteomic approach that has analyzed the exposed proteins on G. vaginalis cell surface using a shaving approach. The 261 G. vaginalis proteins identified using this approach were analyzed with bioinformatic tools to detect characteristic motifs from surface-exposed proteins, such as signal peptides (36 proteins), lipobox domains (17 proteins), LPXTG motifs (5 proteins) and transmembrane alpha-helices (66 proteins). One third of the identified proteins were found to have at least one typical motif of surface-exposed proteins. Furthermore, the subcellular location was examined using two predictors (PSORT and Gpos-mPLoc). These bioinformatic tools classified 17% of the identified proteins as surface-associated proteins. Interestingly, we identified 13 members of the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) superfamily, which were mainly involved in the translocation of various substrates across membranes. To validate the location of the G. vaginalis surface-exposed proteins, an immunofluorescence assay with antibodies against Escherichia coli GroEL was performed to reveal the extracellular location of the moonlighting GroEL. In addition, monoclonal antibodies (mAb) against G. vaginalis Cna protein were produced and used to validate the location of Cna on the surface of the G. vaginalis . These high affinity anti-Cna mAb represent a useful tool for the study of this pathogenic microorganism and the BV.

Unraveling Gardnerella vaginalis Surface Proteins Using Cell Shaving Proteomics

PubMed Central

Marín, Elvira; Haesaert, Annelies; Padilla, Laura; Adán, Jaume; Hernáez, María L.; Monteoliva, Lucía; Gil, Concha

2018-01-01

Gardnerella vaginalis is one of the main etiologic agents of bacterial vaginosis (BV). This infection is responsible for a wide range of public health costs and is associated with several adverse outcomes during pregnancy. Improving our understanding of G. vaginalis protein cell surface will assist in BV diagnosis. This study represents the first proteomic approach that has analyzed the exposed proteins on G. vaginalis cell surface using a shaving approach. The 261 G. vaginalis proteins identified using this approach were analyzed with bioinformatic tools to detect characteristic motifs from surface-exposed proteins, such as signal peptides (36 proteins), lipobox domains (17 proteins), LPXTG motifs (5 proteins) and transmembrane alpha-helices (66 proteins). One third of the identified proteins were found to have at least one typical motif of surface-exposed proteins. Furthermore, the subcellular location was examined using two predictors (PSORT and Gpos-mPLoc). These bioinformatic tools classified 17% of the identified proteins as surface-associated proteins. Interestingly, we identified 13 members of the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) superfamily, which were mainly involved in the translocation of various substrates across membranes. To validate the location of the G. vaginalis surface-exposed proteins, an immunofluorescence assay with antibodies against Escherichia coli GroEL was performed to reveal the extracellular location of the moonlighting GroEL. In addition, monoclonal antibodies (mAb) against G. vaginalis Cna protein were produced and used to validate the location of Cna on the surface of the G. vaginalis. These high affinity anti-Cna mAb represent a useful tool for the study of this pathogenic microorganism and the BV. PMID:29867878

Friction and Wear of Iron in Corrosive Media

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rengstorff, G. W. P.; Miyoshi, K.; Buckley, D. H.

1982-01-01

Friction and wear experiments were conducted with elemental iron exposed to various corrosive media including two acids, base, and a salt. Studies involved various concentrations of nitric and sulfuric acids, sodium hydroxide, and sodium chloride. Load and reciprocating sliding speed were kept constant. With the base NaOH an increase in normality beyond 0.01 N resulted in a decrease in both friction and wear. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis of the surface showed a decreasing concentration of ferric oxide (Fe2O3) on the iron surface with increasing NaOH concentration. With nitric acid (HNO3) friction decreased in solutions to 0.05 N, beyond which no further change in friction was observed. The concentration of Fe2O3 on the surface continued to increase with increasing normality. XPS analysis revealed the presence of sulfates in addition of Fe2O3 on surfaces exposed to sulfuric acid and iron chlorides but no sodium on surfaces exposed to NaCl.

Dual orientation of the outer membrane lipoprotein P6 of nontypeable haemophilus influenzae.

PubMed

Michel, Lea Vacca; Snyder, Joy; Schmidt, Rachel; Milillo, Jennifer; Grimaldi, Kyle; Kalmeta, Breanna; Khan, M Nadeem; Sharma, Sharad; Wright, Leslie Kate; Pichichero, Michael E

2013-07-01

The majority of outer membrane (OM) lipoproteins in Gram-negative bacteria are tethered to the membrane via an attached lipid moiety and oriented facing in toward the periplasmic space; a few lipoproteins have been shown to be surface exposed. The outer membrane lipoprotein P6 from the Gram-negative pathogenic bacterium nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi) is surface exposed and a leading vaccine candidate for prevention of NTHi infections. However, we recently found that P6 is not a transmembrane protein as previously thought (L. V. Michel, B. Kalmeta, M. McCreary, J. Snyder, P. Craig, M. E. Pichichero, Vaccine 29:1624-1627, 2011). Here we pursued studies to show that P6 has a dual orientation, existing infrequently as surface exposed and predominantly as internally oriented toward the periplasmic space. Flow cytometry using three monoclonal antibodies with specificity for P6 showed surface staining of whole NTHi cells. Confocal microscopy imaging confirmed that antibodies targeted surface-exposed P6 of intact NTHi cells and not internal P6 in membrane-compromised or dead cells. Western blots of two wild-type NTHi strains and a mutant NTHi strain that does not express P6 showed that P6 antibodies do not detect a promiscuous epitope on NTHi. Depletion of targets to nonlipidated P6 significantly decreased bactericidal activity of human serum. Protease digestion of surface-exposed P6 demonstrated that P6 is predominantly internally localized in a manner similar to its homologue Pal in Escherichia coli. We conclude that P6 of NTHi is likely inserted into the OM in two distinct orientations, with the predominant orientation facing in toward the periplasm.

Strata-1: An International Space Station Experiment into Fundamental Regolith Processes in Microgravity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fries, M.; Abell, P.; Brisset, J.; Britt, D.; Colwell, J.; Durda, D.; Dove, A.; Graham, L.; Hartzell, C.; John, K.;

System for forming janus particles

DOEpatents

Hong, Liang [Midland, MI; Jiang, Shan [Champaign, IL; Granick, Steve [Champaign, IL

2011-01-25

The invention is a method of forming Janus particles, that includes forming an emulsion that contains initial particles, a first liquid, and a second liquid; solidifying the first liquid to form a solid that contains at least a portion of the initial particles on a surface of the solid; and treating the exposed particle sides with a first surface modifying agent, to form the Janus particles. Each of the initial particles on the surface has an exposed particle side and a blocked particle side.

Large-area fabrication of patterned ZnO-nanowire arrays using light stamping lithography.

PubMed

Hwang, Jae K; Cho, Sangho; Seo, Eun K; Myoung, Jae M; Sung, Myung M

2009-12-01

We demonstrate selective adsorption and alignment of ZnO nanowires on patterned poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) thin layers with (aminopropyl)siloxane self-assembled monolayers (SAMs). Light stamping lithography (LSL) was used to prepare patterned PDMS thin layers as neutral passivation regions on Si substrates. (3-Aminopropyl)triethoxysilane-based SAMs were selectively formed only on regions exposing the silanol groups of the Si substrates. The patterned positively charged amino groups define and direct the selective adsorption of ZnO nanowires with negative surface charges in the protic solvent. This procedure can be adopted in automated printing machines that generate patterned ZnO-nanowire arrays on large-area substrates. To demonstrate its usefulness, the LSL method was applied to prepare ZnO-nanowire transistor arrays on 4-in. Si wafers.

Solvothermal synthesis of TiO2 nanocrystals with {001} facets using titanic acid nanobelts for superior photocatalytic activity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cao, Yuhui; Zong, Lanlan; Li, Qiuye; Li, Chen; Li, Junli; Yang, Jianjun

2017-01-01

Anatase TiO2 nanocrystals exposed with {001} facets were fabricated by solvothermal strategy in HF-C4H9OH mixed solution, using titanic acid nanobelts (TAN) as a precursor. The shape of TAN is a long flat plane with a high aspect ratio, and F- is easily adsorbed on the surface of the nanobelts, inducing a higher exposure of {001} facet of TiO2 nanoparticles during the structure reorganization. The exposed percentage of {001} facets could vary from 40 to 77% by adjusting the amount of HF. The as-prepared samples were characterized by transmission electron microscopy, N2 adsorption-desorption isotherms, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscope. The photocatalytic measurement showed that TiO2 nanocrystals with 77% {001} facets exhibited much superior photocatalytic activity for photodegradation of methyl orange, methylene blue, and rhodamine B. And what's more, the mineralization rate of methyl orange was as high as 96% within 60 min. The photocatalytic enhancement is due to a large amount of the high energetic {001} facets exposing, the special truncated octahedral morphology and a stronger ability for dyes adsorption.

Reaction of water with MgO(100) surfaces: Part III. X-ray standing wave studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, P.; Kendelewicz, T.; Nelson, E. J.; Brown, G. E.

1998-09-01

Clean MgO(100) surfaces cleaved in vacuum and exposed to water vapor or bulk water were studied using the X-ray standing wave (XSW) technique in back reflection mode and surface sensitive, element specific O KLL and Mg KLL Auger electron yield detection. The effects of surface charging were mitigated, but not entirely eliminated, by using a low-energy electron flood gun. Simulation of the XSW signal showed that the effect of surface charging on the XSW data could be minimized with careful experimental design. We demonstrate that the XSW method can be applied to studies of insulating surfaces, and our results for MgO(100) surfaces exposed to water vapor or bulk water indicate the following: (1) the vacuum-cleaved clean surface undergoes no surface reconstruction or significant relaxation perpendicular to the surface; (2) Mg-OH distances on surfaces exposed to water vapor or bulk water measured perpendicular to the (100) surface are the same as in bulk MgO; and (3) the z-position of the surface Mg atoms does not change within the estimated error [±2% of the (200) spacing] after the surface is fully hydroxylated. Our results for the clean, vacuum-cleaved surface disagree with results from impact collision ion-scattering spectroscopy and surface-extended electron-loss fine structure for MgO(100), which indicate 15 and 17% inward relaxation, respectively, and they support results from low-energy electron diffraction, reflection high-energy electron diffraction, and photoelectron diffraction that show little, if any, relaxation or rumpling of the surface.

The Residual Polar Caps of Mars: Geological Differences and Possible Consequences

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thomas, P. C.; Sullivan, R.; Ingersoll, A. P.; Murray, B. C.; Danielson, G. E.; Herkenhoff, K. E.; Soderblom, L.; Malin, M. C.; Edgett, K. S.; James, P. B.

2000-01-01

The Martian polar regions have been known to have thick layered sequences (presumed to consist of silicates and ice), CO2 seasonal frost, and residual frosts that remain through the summer: H2O in the north, largely CO2 in the south. The relationship of the residual frosts to the underlying layered deposits could not be determined from Viking images. The Mars Orbiter Camera on Mars Global Surveyor has provided a 50-fold increase in resolution that shows more differences between the two poles. The north residual cap surface has rough topography of pits, cracks, and knobs, suggestive of ablational forms. This topography is less than a few meters in height, and grades in to surfaces exposing the layers underneath. In contrast, the south residual cap has distinctive collapse and possibly ablational topography emplaced in four or more layers, each approx. two meters thick. The top surface has polygonal depressions suggestive of thermal contraction cracks. The collapse and erosional forms include circular and cycloidal depressions, long sinuous troughs, and nearly parallel sets of troughs. The distinctive topography occurs throughout the residual cap area, but not outside it. Unconformities exposed in polar layers, or other layered materials, do not approximate the topography seen on the south residual cap. The coincidence of a distinct geologic feature, several layers modified by collapse, ablation, and mass movement with the residual cap indicates a distinct composition and/or climate compared to both the remainder of the south polar layered units and those in the north.

A fast method for the determination of fractional contributions to solvation in proteins

PubMed Central

Talavera, David; Morreale, Antonio; Meyer, Tim; Hospital, Adam; Ferrer-Costa, Carles; Gelpi, Josep Lluis; de la Cruz, Xavier; Soliva, Robert; Luque, F. Javier; Orozco, Modesto

2006-01-01

A fast method for the calculation of residue contributions to protein solvation is presented. The approach uses the exposed polar and apolar surface of protein residues and has been parametrized from the fractional contributions to solvation determined from linear response theory coupled to molecular dynamics simulations. Application of the method to a large subset of proteins taken from the Protein Data Bank allowed us to compute the expected fractional solvation of residues. This information is used to discuss when a residue or a group of residues presents an uncommon solvation profile. PMID:17001031

Data bases for LDEF results

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bohnhoff-Hlavacek, Gail

1993-01-01

The Long Duration Exposure Facility (LDEF) carried 57 experiments and 10,000 specimens for some 200 LDEF experiment investigators. The external surface of LDEF had a large variety of materials exposed to the space environment which were tested preflight, during flight, and post flight. Thermal blankets, optical materials, thermal control paints, aluminum, and composites are among the materials flown. The investigations have produced an abundance of analysis results. One of the responsibilities of the Boeing Support Contract, Materials and Systems Special Investigation Group, is to collate and compile that information into an organized fashion. The databases developed at Boeing to accomplish this task is described.

A new mask exposure and analysis facility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

te Sligte, Edwin; Koster, Norbert; Deutz, Alex; Staring, Wilbert

2014-10-01

The introduction of ever higher source powers in EUV systems causes increased risks for contamination and degradation of EUV masks and pellicles. Appropriate testing can help to inventory and mitigate these risks. To this end, we propose EBL2: a laboratory EUV exposure system capable of operating at high EUV powers and intensities, and capable of exposing and analyzing EUV masks. The proposed system architecture is similar to the EBL system which has been operated jointly by TNO and Carl Zeiss SMT since 2005. EBL2 contains an EUV Beam Line, in which samples can be exposed to EUV irradiation in a controlled environment. Attached to this Beam Line is an XPS system, which can be reached from the Beam Line via an in-vacuum transfer system. This enables surface analysis of exposed masks without breaking vacuum. Automated handling with dual pods is foreseen so that exposed EUV masks will still be usable in EUV lithography tools to assess the imaging impact of the exposure. Compared to the existing system, large improvements in EUV power, intensity, reliability, and flexibility are proposed. Also, in-situ measurements by e.g. ellipsometry is foreseen for real time monitoring of the sample condition. The system shall be equipped with additional ports for EUVR or other analysis tools. This unique facility will be open for external customers and other research groups.

Evidence of Space Weathering Processes Across the Surface of Vesta

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pieters, Carle M.; Blewett, David T.; Gaffey, Michael; Mittlefehldt, David W.; CristinaDeSanctis, Maria; Reddy, Vishnu; Coradini, Angioletta; Nathues, Andreas; Denevi, Brett W.; Li, Jian-Yang;

Underestimated role of the secondary electron emission in the space

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nemecek, Zdenek; Richterova, Ivana; Safrankova, Jana; Pavlu, Jiri; Vaverka, Jakub; Nouzak, Libor

2016-07-01

Secondary electron emission (SEE) is one of many processes that charges surfaces of bodies immersed into a plasma. Until present, a majority of considerations in theories and experiments is based on the sixty year old description of an interaction of planar metallic surfaces with electrons, thus the effects of a surface curvature, roughness, presence of clusters as well as an influence of the material conductance on different aspects of this interaction are neglected. Dust grains or their clusters can be frequently found in many space environments - interstellar clouds, atmospheres of planets, tails of comets or planetary rings are only typical examples. The grains are exposed to electrons of different energies and they can acquire positive or negative charge during this interaction. We review the progress in experimental investigations and computer simulations of the SEE from samples relevant to space that was achieved in course of the last decade. We present a systematic study of well-defined systems that starts from spherical grains of various diameters and materials, and it continues with clusters consisting of different numbers of small spherical grains that can be considered as examples of real irregularly shaped space grains. The charges acquired by investigated objects as well as their secondary emission yields are calculated using the SEE model. We show that (1) the charge and surface potential of clusters exposed to the electron beam are influenced by the number of grains and by their geometry within a particular cluster, (2) the model results are in an excellent agreement with the experiment, and (3) there is a large difference between charging of a cluster levitating in the free space and that attached to a planar surface. The calculation provides a reduction of the secondary electron emission yield of the surface covered by dust clusters by a factor up to 1.5 with respect to the yield of a smooth surface. (4) These results are applied on charging of the lunar surface and the dust grains levitating above it, and it is shown that the SEE is more important for isolated dust grains than for the lunar surface covered by them.

Surface characteristics of spacecraft components affect the aggregation of microorganisms and may lead to different survival rates of bacteria on Mars landers.

PubMed

Schuerger, Andrew C; Richards, Jeffrey T; Hintze, Paul E; Kern, Roger G

2005-08-01

Layers of dormant endospores of Bacillus subtilis HA101 were applied to eight different spacecraft materials and exposed to martian conditions of low pressure (8.5 mbar), low temperature (-10 degrees C), and high CO(2) gas composition and irradiated with a Mars-normal ultraviolet (UV-visible- near-infrared spectrum. Bacterial layers were exposed to either 1 min or 1 h of Mars-normal UV irradiation, which simulated clear-sky conditions on equatorial Mars (0.1 tau). When exposed to 1 min of Mars UV irradiation, the numbers of viable endospores of B. subtilis were reduced three to four orders of magnitude for two brands of aluminum (Al), stainless steel, chemfilm-treated Al, clear-anodized Al, and black-anodized Al coupons. In contrast, bacterial survival was reduced only one to two orders of magnitude for endospores on the non-metal materials astroquartz and graphite composite when bacterial endospores were exposed to 1 min of Mars UV irradiation. When bacterial monolayers were exposed to 1 h of Mars UV irradiation, no viable bacteria were recovered from the six metal coupons listed above. In contrast, bacterial survival was reduced only two to three orders of magnitude for spore layers on astroquartz and graphite composite exposed to 1 h of Mars UV irradiation. Scanning electron microscopy images of the bacterial monolayers on all eight spacecraft materials revealed that endospores of B. subtilis formed large aggregates of multilayered spores on astroquartz and graphite composite, but not on the other six spacecraft materials. It is likely that the formation of multilayered aggregates of endospores on astroquartz and graphite composite is responsible for the enhanced survival of bacterial cells on these materials.

Surface characteristics of spacecraft components affect the aggregation of microorganisms and may lead to different survival rates of bacteria on Mars landers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schuerger, Andrew C.; Richards, Jeffrey T.; Hintze, Paul E.; Kern, Roger G.

2005-01-01

Layers of dormant endospores of Bacillus subtilis HA101 were applied to eight different spacecraft materials and exposed to martian conditions of low pressure (8.5 mbar), low temperature (-10 degrees C), and high CO(2) gas composition and irradiated with a Mars-normal ultraviolet (UV-visible- near-infrared spectrum. Bacterial layers were exposed to either 1 min or 1 h of Mars-normal UV irradiation, which simulated clear-sky conditions on equatorial Mars (0.1 tau). When exposed to 1 min of Mars UV irradiation, the numbers of viable endospores of B. subtilis were reduced three to four orders of magnitude for two brands of aluminum (Al), stainless steel, chemfilm-treated Al, clear-anodized Al, and black-anodized Al coupons. In contrast, bacterial survival was reduced only one to two orders of magnitude for endospores on the non-metal materials astroquartz and graphite composite when bacterial endospores were exposed to 1 min of Mars UV irradiation. When bacterial monolayers were exposed to 1 h of Mars UV irradiation, no viable bacteria were recovered from the six metal coupons listed above. In contrast, bacterial survival was reduced only two to three orders of magnitude for spore layers on astroquartz and graphite composite exposed to 1 h of Mars UV irradiation. Scanning electron microscopy images of the bacterial monolayers on all eight spacecraft materials revealed that endospores of B. subtilis formed large aggregates of multilayered spores on astroquartz and graphite composite, but not on the other six spacecraft materials. It is likely that the formation of multilayered aggregates of endospores on astroquartz and graphite composite is responsible for the enhanced survival of bacterial cells on these materials.

Process for selectively patterning epitaxial film growth on a semiconductor substrate

DOEpatents

Sheldon, P.; Hayes, R.E.

1984-12-04

Disclosed is a process for selectively patterning epitaxial film growth on a semiconductor substrate. The process includes forming a masking member on the surface of the substrate, the masking member having at least two layers including a first layer disposed on the substrate and the second layer covering the first layer. A window is then opened in a selected portion of the second layer by removing that portion to expose the first layer thereunder. The first layer is then subjected to an etchant introduced through the window to dissolve the first layer a sufficient amount to expose the substrate surface directly beneath the window, the first layer being adapted to preferentially dissolve at a substantially greater rate than the second layer so as to create an overhanging ledge portion with the second layer by undercutting the edges thereof adjacent the window. The epitaxial film is then deposited on the exposed substrate surface directly beneath the window. Finally, an etchant is introduced through the window to dissolve the remainder of the first layer so as to lift-off the second layer and materials deposited thereon to fully expose the balance of the substrate surface.

ESCA Study of Poly (Vinylidene Fluoride) Tetrafluoroethylene - Ethylene Copolymer and Polyethylene Exposed to Atomic Oxygen

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Golub, Morton A.; Cormia, Robert D.

1989-01-01

The ESCA (electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis) spectra of films of poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF), tetrafluoroethylene-ethylene copolymer (TFE/ET) and polyethylene (PE) exposed to atomic oxygen (O(P-3)), in or out of the glow of a radio-frequency O2 plasma, were compared. ESCA spectra of PE films exposed to (O(P-3)) in low Earth orbit (LEO) on the STS-8 Space Shuttle were also examined. Apart from O(P-3)-induced surface recession (etching), the various polymer films exhibited surface oxidation, which proceeded towards equilibrium saturation oxygen levels. The maximum surface oxygen uptakes for in-glow or out-of-glow exposures were in the order: PE greater than TFE/ET greater than PVDF; for PE itself, the oxygen uptakes were in the order: in glow greater than out of glow greater than LEO. Given prior ESCA data on poly(vinyl fluoride) and polytetrafluoroethylene films exposed to O(P-3), the extent of surface oxidation is seen to decrease regularly with increase in fluorine substitution in a family of ethylene-type polymers. (Keywords: ESCA; poly(vinylidene fluoride); tetrafluoroethylene ethylene copolymer; polyethylene; atomic oxygen; radio-frequency oxygen plasma; low Earth orbit)

Process for selectively patterning epitaxial film growth on a semiconductor substrate

DOEpatents

Sheldon, Peter; Hayes, Russell E.

1986-01-01

A process is disclosed for selectively patterning epitaxial film growth on a semiconductor substrate. The process includes forming a masking member on the surface of the substrate, the masking member having at least two layers including a first layer disposed on the substrate and the second layer covering the first layer. A window is then opened in a selected portion of the second layer by removing that portion to expose the first layer thereunder. The first layer is then subjected to an etchant introduced through the window to dissolve a sufficient amount of the first layer to expose the substrate surface directly beneath the window, the first layer being adapted to preferentially dissolve at a substantially greater rate than the second layer so as to create an overhanging ledge portion with the second layer by undercutting the edges thereof adjacent to the window. The epitaxial film is then deposited on the exposed substrate surface directly beneath the window. Finally, an etchant is introduced through the window to dissolve the remainder of the first layer so as to lift-off the second layer and materials deposited thereon to fully expose the balance of the substrate surface.

Transfer of crude oil from contaminated water to bird eggs

USGS Publications Warehouse

Albers, P.H.

1980-01-01

Paris of breeding mallard ducks were exposed to oiled water for 2 days during the first week of incubation. Hatching success of ducks exposed to 100 ml of Prudhoe Bay crude oil per square meter of water surface was significantly less than that of controls. Hatching success of ducks exposed to 5 ml of crude oil per square meter of water surface was less than that of controls but the difference was not significant. The presence of oil on the eggs of ducks exposed to oiled water was confirmed by chemical analysis. Thermocouple probes were used to monitor the egg and nest temperatures of some of the ducks in each of the three groups. Incubation temperatures of oiled females were not significantly different from those of the controls. The incubation behavior of females exposed to oiled water and the first-week survival of their ducklings was not affected by the oil.

Effect of flowing sodium on corrosion and tensile properties of AISI type 316LN stainless steel at 823 K

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sivai Bharasi, N.; Thyagarajan, K.; Shaikh, H.; Balamurugan, A. K.; Bera, Santanu; Kalavathy, S.; Gurumurthy, K.; Tyagi, A. K.; Dayal, R. K.; Rajan, K. K.; Khatak, H. S.

2008-07-01

AISI type 316LN stainless steel was exposed to flowing sodium in mass transfer loop (MTL) at 823 K for 16 000 h and then examined for changes in the tensile properties due to the mass transfer and corrosion effects. Comparisons in microstructural and mechanical properties were made between annealed, thermally aged and sodium exposed materials. Microstructural examination of thermally aged and sodium exposed materials revealed precipitation of carbides at the grain boundaries. The sodium exposed samples contained a degraded layer at the surface up to a depth of around 10 μm and a surface carburized layer of about 30 μm. There was about 15% increase in yield strength and a decrease of about 20% in ductility for the sodium exposed material vis-a-vis thermally aged material and this was attributed to carburization effects and microstructural changes.

Lunar and Planetary Science XXXV: Martian Aeolian and Mass Wasting Processes: Blowing and Flowing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2004-01-01

The session Martian Aeolian and Mass Wasting Processes: BLowing and Flowing included the following topics: 1) Three Decades of Martian Surface Changes; 2) Thermophysical Properties of Isidis Basin, Mars; 3) Intracrater Material in Eastern Arabia Terra: THEMIS, MOC, and MOLA Analysis of Wind-blown Deposits and Possible High-Inertia Source Material; 4) Thermal Properties of Sand from TES and THEMIS: Do Martian Dunes Make a Good Control for Thermal Inertia Calculations? 5) A Comparative Analysis of Barchan Dunes in the Intra-Crater Dune Fields and the North Polar Sand Sea; 6) Diluvial Dunes in Athabasca Valles, Mars: Morphology, Modeling and Implications; 7) Surface Profiling of Natural Dust Devils; 8) Martian Dust Devil Tracks: Inferred Directions of Movement; 9) Numerical Simulations of Anastomosing Slope Streaks on Mars; 10) Young Fans in an Equatorial Crater in Xanthe Terra, Mars; 11) Large Well-exposed Alluvual Fans in Deep Late-Noachian Craters; 12) New Evidence for the Formation of Large Landslides on Mars; and 13) What Can We Learn from the Ages of Valles Marineris Landslides on Martian Impact History?

Directable weathering of concave rock using curvature estimation.

PubMed

Jones, Michael D; Farley, McKay; Butler, Joseph; Beardall, Matthew

2010-01-01

We address the problem of directable weathering of exposed concave rock for use in computer-generated animation or games. Previous weathering models that admit concave surfaces are computationally inefficient and difficult to control. In nature, the spheroidal and cavernous weathering rates depend on the surface curvature. Spheroidal weathering is fastest in areas with large positive mean curvature and cavernous weathering is fastest in areas with large negative mean curvature. We simulate both processes using an approximation of mean curvature on a voxel grid. Both weathering rates are also influenced by rock durability. The user controls rock durability by editing a durability graph before and during weathering simulation. Simulations of rockfall and colluvium deposition further improve realism. The profile of the final weathered rock matches the shape of the durability graph up to the effects of weathering and colluvium deposition. We demonstrate the top-down directability and visual plausibility of the resulting model through a series of screenshots and rendered images. The results include the weathering of a cube into a sphere and of a sheltered inside corner into a cavern as predicted by the underlying geomorphological models.

Dependency of the apparent contact angle on nonisothermal conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krahl, Rolf; Gerstmann, Jens; Behruzi, Philipp; Bänsch, Eberhard; Dreyer, Michael E.

2008-04-01

The dynamic behavior of liquids in partly filled containers is influenced to a large extend by the angle between the gas-liquid phase boundary and the solid container wall at the contact line. This contact angle in turn is influenced by nonisothermal conditions. In the case of a cold liquid meniscus spreading over a hot solid wall, the contact angle apparently becomes significantly larger. In this paper we want to establish a quantitative equation for this enlargement, both from experimental and numerical data. Our findings can be used to build a subgrid model for computations, where the resolution is not sufficient to resolve the boundary layers. This might be the case for large containers which are exposed to low accelerations and where the contact angle boundary condition determines the position of the free surface. These types of computation are performed, for example, to solve propellant management problems in launcher and satellite tanks. In this application, the knowledge of the position of the free surface is very important for the withdrawal of liquid and the calculation of heat and mass transfer.

Nano-imprint gold grating as refractive index sensor

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

Kumari, Sudha; Mohapatra, Saswat; Moirangthem, Rakesh S.

Large scale of fabrication of plasmonic nanostructures has been a challenging task due to time consuming process and requirement of expensive nanofabrication tools such as electron beam lithography system, focused ion beam system, and extreme UV photolithography system. Here, we present a cost-effective fabrication technique so called soft nanoimprinting to fabricate nanostructures on the larger sample area. In our fabrication process, a commercially available optical DVD disc was used as a template which was imprinted on a polymer glass substrate to prepare 1D polymer nano-grating. A homemade nanoimprinting setup was used in this fabrication process. Further, a label-free refractive indexmore » sensor was developed by utilizing the properties of surface plasmon resonance (SPR) of a gold coated 1D polymer nano-grating. Refractive index sensing was tested by exposing different solutions of glycerol-water mixture on the surface of gold nano-grating. The calculated bulk refractive index sensitivity was found to be 751nm/RIU. We believed that our proposed SPR sensor could be a promising candidate for developing low-cost refractive index sensor with high sensitivity on a large scale.« less

Effects of grain size, mineralogy, and acid-extractable grain coatings on the distribution of the fallout radionuclides 7Be, 10Be, 137Cs, and 210Pb in river sediment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singleton, Adrian A.; Schmidt, Amanda H.; Bierman, Paul R.; Rood, Dylan H.; Neilson, Thomas B.; Greene, Emily Sophie; Bower, Jennifer A.; Perdrial, Nicolas

2017-01-01

Grain-size dependencies in fallout radionuclide activity have been attributed to either increase in specific surface area in finer grain sizes or differing mineralogical abundances in different grain sizes. Here, we consider a third possibility, that the concentration and composition of grain coatings, where fallout radionuclides reside, controls their activity in fluvial sediment. We evaluated these three possible explanations in two experiments: (1) we examined the effect of sediment grain size, mineralogy, and composition of the acid-extractable materials on the distribution of 7Be, 10Be, 137Cs, and unsupported 210Pb in detrital sediment samples collected from rivers in China and the United States, and (2) we periodically monitored 7Be, 137Cs, and 210Pb retention in samples of known composition exposed to natural fallout in Ohio, USA for 294 days. Acid-extractable materials (made up predominately of Fe, Mn, Al, and Ca from secondary minerals and grain coatings produced during pedogenesis) are positively related to the abundance of fallout radionuclides in our sediment samples. Grain-size dependency of fallout radionuclide concentrations was significant in detrital sediment samples, but not in samples exposed to fallout under controlled conditions. Mineralogy had a large effect on 7Be and 210Pb retention in samples exposed to fallout, suggesting that sieving sediments to a single grain size or using specific surface area-based correction terms may not completely control for preferential distribution of these nuclides. We conclude that time-dependent geochemical, pedogenic, and sedimentary processes together result in the observed differences in nuclide distribution between different grain sizes and substrate compositions. These findings likely explain variability of measured nuclide activities in river networks that exceeds the variability introduced by analytical techniques as well as spatial and temporal differences in erosion rates and processes. In short, we suggest that presence and amount of pedogenic grain coatings is more important than either specific surface area or surface charge in setting the distribution of fallout radionuclides.

Robust self-cleaning surfaces that function when exposed to either air or oil

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lu, Yao; Sathasivam, Sanjayan; Song, Jinlong; Crick, Colin R.; Carmalt, Claire J.; Parkin, Ivan P.

2015-03-01

Superhydrophobic self-cleaning surfaces are based on the surface micro/nanomorphologies; however, such surfaces are mechanically weak and stop functioning when exposed to oil. We have created an ethanolic suspension of perfluorosilane-coated titanium dioxide nanoparticles that forms a paint that can be sprayed, dipped, or extruded onto both hard and soft materials to create a self-cleaning surface that functions even upon emersion in oil. Commercial adhesives were used to bond the paint to various substrates and promote robustness. These surfaces maintained their water repellency after finger-wipe, knife-scratch, and even 40 abrasion cycles with sandpaper. The formulations developed can be used on clothes, paper, glass, and steel for a myriad of self-cleaning applications.

Population exposed to landslide risk in Italy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Trigila, Alessandro; Iadanza, Carla; Munafò, Michele; Baiocco, Fabio; Marinosci, Ines; Chiocchini, Raffaella; Mugnoli, Stefano

2013-04-01

Italy is one of the European countries most affected by landslides counting over 486,000 mass movements with a total area of 20,700 square kilometres equal to 6.9% of the national territory. Moreover Italy is a densely urbanized country: 8101 municipalities, about 200 inhabitants per sq. km, 16,000 km of rail network and 180,000 km of road network. Landslides caused more than 5000 fatalities in the last century and considerable damage to urban areas, transport infrastructure and facilities, environmental and cultural heritage. The aim of this work is to estimate the population exposed to landslide risk in Italy. The input data are: the Italian Landslide Inventory, the Italian Population Census data and the high-resolution Artificial surfaces-Imperviousness Layer (Geoland2). The Italian Landslide Inventory (Progetto IFFI) realised by ISPRA (Italian National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research) and the Regions and Self-governing Provinces, identifies landslides occurred in the national territory in accordance with standardized methods and using a detailed landslide mapping (1:10,000 scale). The 14th Population Census, made by ISTAT (Italian National Institute of Statistics) in 2001, contains data of resident population for the 382,534 census tracts in which Italy is divided. The pan-European high-resolution (HR) Artificial surfaces-Imperviousness Layer, realized using remote sensing data within the GMES initiative (Global Monitoring for Environment and Security) by European Commission and European Space Agency, contains the degree of imperviousness (between 0 and 100%). GIS overlay of this information layer (20 x 20 m grid) with census tracts has allowed the spatialization of population within urban settlements of each census tract. This methodology has been particularly useful in the case of rural census tracts characterized by large surface area and low population density. The methodology could be also applied to estimate the population exposed to other natural, environmental or technological risks.

Impact of RO-desalted water on distribution water qualities.

PubMed

Taylor, J; Dietz, J; Randall, A; Hong, S

2005-01-01

A large-scale pilot distribution study was conducted to investigate the impacts of blending different source waters on distribution water qualities, with an emphasis on metal release (i.e. corrosion). The principal source waters investigated were conventionally treated ground water (G1), surface water processed by enhanced treatment (S1), and desalted seawater by reverse osmosis membranes (RO). Due to the nature of raw water quality and associated treatment processes, G1 water had high alkalinity, while S1 and RO sources were characterized as high sulfate and high chloride waters, respectively. The blending ratio of different treated waters determined the quality of finished waters. Iron release from aged cast iron pipes increased significantly when exposed to RO and S1 waters: that is, the greater iron release was experienced with alkalinity reduced below the background of G1 water. Copper release to drinking water, however, increased with increasing alkalinity and decreasing pH. Lead release, on the other hand, increased with increasing chloride and decreasing sulfate. The effect of pH and alkalinity on lead release was not clearly observed from pilot blending study. The flat and compact corrosion scales observed for lead surface exposed to S1 water may be attributable to lead concentration less than that of RO water blends.

The structure of the asteroid 4 Vesta as revealed by models of planet-scale collisions.

PubMed

Jutzi, M; Asphaug, E; Gillet, P; Barrat, J-A; Benz, W

2013-02-14

Asteroid 4 Vesta seems to be a major intact protoplanet, with a surface composition similar to that of the HED (howardite-eucrite-diogenite) meteorites. The southern hemisphere is dominated by a giant impact scar, but previous impact models have failed to reproduce the observed topography. The recent discovery that Vesta's southern hemisphere is dominated by two overlapping basins provides an opportunity to model Vesta's topography more accurately. Here we report three-dimensional simulations of Vesta's global evolution under two overlapping planet-scale collisions. We closely reproduce its observed shape, and provide maps of impact excavation and ejecta deposition. Spiral patterns observed in the younger basin Rheasilvia, about one billion years old, are attributed to Coriolis forces during crater collapse. Surface materials exposed in the north come from a depth of about 20 kilometres, according to our models, whereas materials exposed inside the southern double-excavation come from depths of about 60-100 kilometres. If Vesta began as a layered, completely differentiated protoplanet, then our model predicts large areas of pure diogenites and olivine-rich rocks. These are not seen, possibly implying that the outer 100 kilometres or so of Vesta is composed mainly of a basaltic crust (eucrites) with ultramafic intrusions (diogenites).

The structure of the asteroid 4 Vesta as revealed by models of planet-scale collisions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jutzi, M.; Asphaug, E.; Gillet, P.; Barrat, J.-A.; Benz, W.

2013-02-01

Asteroid 4 Vesta seems to be a major intact protoplanet, with a surface composition similar to that of the HED (howardite-eucrite-diogenite) meteorites. The southern hemisphere is dominated by a giant impact scar, but previous impact models have failed to reproduce the observed topography. The recent discovery that Vesta's southern hemisphere is dominated by two overlapping basins provides an opportunity to model Vesta's topography more accurately. Here we report three-dimensional simulations of Vesta's global evolution under two overlapping planet-scale collisions. We closely reproduce its observed shape, and provide maps of impact excavation and ejecta deposition. Spiral patterns observed in the younger basin Rheasilvia, about one billion years old, are attributed to Coriolis forces during crater collapse. Surface materials exposed in the north come from a depth of about 20 kilometres, according to our models, whereas materials exposed inside the southern double-excavation come from depths of about 60-100 kilometres. If Vesta began as a layered, completely differentiated protoplanet, then our model predicts large areas of pure diogenites and olivine-rich rocks. These are not seen, possibly implying that the outer 100 kilometres or so of Vesta is composed mainly of a basaltic crust (eucrites) with ultramafic intrusions (diogenites).

Evolution of organic molecules under Mars-like UV radiation conditions in space and laboratory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rouquette, L.; Stalport, F.; Cottin, H.; Coll, P.; Szopa, C.; Saiagh, K.; Poch, O.; Khalaf, D.; Chaput, D.; Grira, K.; Dequaire, T.

2017-09-01

The detection and identification of organic molecules at Mars are of prime importance, as some of these molecules are life precursors and components. While in situ planetary missions are searching for them, it is essential to understand how organic molecules evolve and are preserved at the surface of Mars. Indeed the harsh conditions of the environment of Mars such as ultraviolet (UV) radiation or oxidative processes could explain the low abundance and diversity of organic molecules detected by now [1]. In order to get a better understanding of the evolution of organic matter at the surface of Mars, we exposed organic molecules under a Mars-like UV radiation environment. Similar organic samples were exposed to the Sun radiation, outside the International Space Station (ISS), and under a UV lamp (martian pressure and temperature conditions) in the laboratory. In both experiments, organic molecules tend to photodegrade under Mars-like UV radiation. Minerals, depending on their nature, can protect or accelerate the degradation of organic molecules. For some molecules, new products, possibly photoresistant, seem to be produced. Finally, experimenting in space allow us to get close to in situ conditions and to validate our laboratory experiment while the laboratory experiment is essential to study the evolution of a large amount and diversity of organic molecules.

Chemistry of Urban Grime: Inorganic Ion Composition of Grime vs Particles in Leipzig, Germany.

PubMed

Baergen, Alyson M; Styler, Sarah A; van Pinxteren, Dominik; Müller, Konrad; Herrmann, Hartmut; Donaldson, D James

2015-11-03

Deposition of atmospheric constituents--either gas phase or particulate--onto urban impervious surfaces gives rise to a thin "urban grime" film. The area exposed by these impervious surfaces in a typical urban environment is comparable to, or greater than, that of particles present in the urban boundary layer; however, it is largely overlooked as a site for heterogeneous reactions. Here we present the results of a field campaign to determine and compare the chemical composition of urban grime and of particles collected simultaneously during the autumn of 2014 at an urban site in central Leipzig, Germany. We see dramatically reduced ammonium and nitrate levels in the film as compared to particles, suggesting a significant loss of ammonium nitrate, thus enhancing the mobility of these species in the environment. Nitrate levels are 10% lower for films exposed to sunlight compared to those that were shielded from direct sun, indicating a possible mechanism for recycling nitrate anion to reactive nitrogen species. Finally, chloride levels in the film suggest that urban grime could represent an unrecognized source of continental chloride available for ClNO2 production even in times of low particulate chloride. Such source and recycling processes could prove to be important to local and regional air quality.

Effects of Solar Photovoltaic Panels on Roof Heat Transfer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dominguez, A.; Klessl, J.; Samady, M.; Luvall, J. C.

2010-01-01

Building Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) is a major contributor to urban energy use. In single story buildings with large surface area such as warehouses most of the heat enters through the roof. A rooftop modification that has not been examined experimentally is solar photovoltaic (PV) arrays. In California alone, several GW in residential and commercial rooftop PV are approved or in the planning stages. With the PV solar conversion efficiency ranging from 5-20% and a typical installed PV solar reflectance of 16-27%, 53-79% of the solar energy heats the panel. Most of this heat is then either transferred to the atmosphere or the building underneath. Consequently solar PV has indirect effects on roof heat transfer. The effect of rooftop PV systems on the building roof and indoor energy balance as well as their economic impacts on building HVAC costs have not been investigated. Roof calculator models currently do not account for rooftop modifications such as PV arrays. In this study, we report extensive measurements of a building containing a flush mount and a tilted solar PV array as well as exposed reference roof. Exterior air and surface temperature, wind speed, and solar radiation were measured and thermal infrared (TIR) images of the interior ceiling were taken. We found that in daytime the ceiling surface temperature under the PV arrays was significantly cooler than under the exposed roof. The maximum difference of 2.5 C was observed at around 1800h, close to typical time of peak energy demand. Conversely at night, the ceiling temperature under the PV arrays was warmer, especially for the array mounted flat onto the roof. A one dimensional conductive heat flux model was used to calculate the temperature profile through the roof. The heat flux into the bottom layer was used as an estimate of the heat flux into the building. The mean daytime heat flux (1200-2000 PST) under the exposed roof in the model was 14.0 Watts per square meter larger than under the tilted PV array. The maximum downward heat flux was 18.7 Watts per square meters for the exposed roof and 7.0 Watts per square meters under the tilted PV array, a 63% reduction due to the PV array. This study is unique as the impact of tilted and flush PV arrays could be compared against a typical exposed roof at the same roof for a commercial uninhabited building with exposed ceiling and consisting only of the building envelope. Our results indicate a more comfortable indoor environment in PV covered buildings without HVAC both in hotter and cooler seasons.

Location Of Hole And Electron Traps On Nanocrystalline Anatase TiO2

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

Mercado, Candy C.; Knorr, Fritz J.; McHale, Jeanne L.

2012-05-17

The defect photoluminescence from TiO2 nanoparticles in the anatase phase is reported for nanosheets which expose predominantly (001) surfaces, and compared to that from conventional anatase nanoparticles which expose mostly (101) surfaces. Also reported is the weak defect photoluminescence of TiO2 nanotubes, which we find using electron back-scattered diffraction to consist of walls which expose (110) and (100) facets. The nanotubes exhibit photoluminescence that is blue-shifted and much weaker than that from conventional TiO2 nanoparticles. Despite the preponderance of (001) surfaces in the nanosheet samples, they exhibit photoluminescence similar to that of conventional nanoparticles. We assign the broad visible photoluminescencemore » of anatase nanoparticles to two overlapping distributions: hole trap emission associated with oxygen vacancies on (101) exposed surfaces, which peaks in the green, and a broader emission extending into the red which results from electron traps on under-coordinated titanium atoms, which are prevalent on (001) facets. The results of this study suggest how morphology of TiO2 nanoparticles could be optimized to control the distribution and activity of surface traps. Our results also shed light on the mechanism by which the TiCl4 surface treatment heals traps on anatase and mixed-phase TiO2 films, and reveals distinct differences in the trap-state distributions of TiO2 nanoparticles and nanotubes. The molecular basis for electron and hole traps and their spatial separation on different facets is discussed.« less

Chemically Active, Porous 3D-Printed Thermoplastic Composites.

PubMed

Evans, Kent A; Kennedy, Zachary C; Arey, Bruce W; Christ, Josef F; Schaef, Herbert T; Nune, Satish K; Erikson, Rebecca L

2018-05-02

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) exhibit exceptional properties and are widely investigated because of their structural and functional versatility relevant to catalysis, separations, and sensing applications. However, their commercial or large-scale application is often limited by their powder forms which make integration into devices challenging. Here, we report the production of MOF-thermoplastic polymer composites in well-defined and customizable forms and with complex internal structural features accessed via a standard three-dimensional (3D) printer. MOFs (zeolitic imidazolate framework; ZIF-8) were incorporated homogeneously into both poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) matrices at high loadings (up to 50% by mass), extruded into filaments, and utilized for on-demand access to 3D structures by fused deposition modeling. Printed, rigid PLA/MOF composites display a large surface area (SA avg = 531 m 2 g -1 ) and hierarchical pore features, whereas flexible TPU/MOF composites achieve a high surface area (SA avg = 706 m 2 g -1 ) by employing a simple method developed to expose obstructed micropores postprinting. Critically, embedded particles in the plastic matrices retain their ability to participate in chemical interactions characteristic of the parent framework. The fabrication strategies were extended to other MOFs and illustrate the potential of 3D printing to create unique porous and high surface area chemically active structures.

Dried calcium alginate/magnetite spheres: a new support for chromatographic separations and enzyme immobilization

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

Burns, M.A.; Kvesitadze, G.I.; Graves, D.J.

1985-02-01

Dried spheres made from an alginate solution containing magnetite particles have excellent potential as a support for enzyme immobilization and chromatographic applications. The beads were found to be much stronger than gels such as polyacrylamide and dextran, indicating that high flow rates and pressures could be used in column separations. The support withstood not only temperatures of up to 120/sup 0/C, but also most pH values and common solvents. While some solutions, such as phosphate buffers, dissolved the spheres, stabilization with Tyzor TE eliminated this problem. The physical properties of the beads include a glasslike density of 2.2 g/mL, excellentmore » sphericity, low porosity, and a narrow size distribution. The magnetite present in the support allows the beads to be used for magnetic separations such as high gradient magnetic filtration. Their high degree of microroughness provides a large exposed surface area for enzyme and ligand binding. Mixed Actinomyces fradiae proteases and Aspergillus niger ..cap alpha..-amylase, two enzymes representative of classes which attack large substrates, were immobilized on the bead's surface with high activity and stability. A cyanuric dye which can be used in chromatographic applications (Cibacron Blue F3GA) was also readily coupled to the surface of this support with good yield.« less

The effects of interplanetary dust impacts on the accumulation of volatiles in the lunar permanently shadowed regions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Horanyi, Mihaly; Szalay, Jamey

2017-10-01

The lunar regolith has been formed, and remains continually reworked, by the intermitten impacts of comets, asteroids, meteoroids, and the continual bombardment by interplanetary dust particles (IDP). Thick atmospheres protect Venus, Earth, and Mars, ablating the incoming IDPs into “shooting stars” that rarely reach the surface. However, the surfaces of airless bodies near 1 AU are directly exposed to the high-speed (>> 1 km/s) IDP impacts. The Moon is expected to be bombarded by 5x103 kg/day of IDPs arriving with a characteristic speed of ~ 20 km/s. The IDP sources impacting the Moon at high latitudes remain largely uncharacterized due to the lack of optical and radar observations in the polar regions on Earth. These high latitude sources have very large impact speeds in the range of 30 < v < 50 km/ hence they are expected to have a significant effect on the lunar surface, including the removal and burial of volatile deposits in the lunar polar regions.Water is thought to be continually delivered to the Moon through geological timescales by water-bearing comets and asteroids, and produced continuously in situ by the impacts of solar wind protons of oxygen rich minerals exposed on the surface. IDPs are an unlikely source of water due to their long UV exposure in the inner solar system, but their high-speed impacts can mobilize secondary ejecta dust particles, atoms and molecules, some with high-enough speed to escape the Moon. Other surface processes that can lead to mobilization, transport and loss of water molecules and other volatiles include solar heating, photochemical processes, and solar wind sputtering. Since none of these are at work in permanently shadowed regions (PSR), dust impacts remain the dominant process to dictate the evolution of volatiles in PSRs. The competing effects of dust impacts are: a) ejecta production leading to loss out of a PSR; b) gardening and overturning the regolith; and c) the possible accumulation of impact ejecta, leading to the burial of the volatiles. This talk will summarize the expected effects of dust impacts on volatile accumulation in the lunar PSRs based on theoretical models, recent laboratory results, and observations by the LADEE spacecraft.

Paleoseismology of a possible fault scarp in Wenas Valley, central Washington

USGS Publications Warehouse

Sherrod, Brian L.; Barnett, Elizabeth A.; Knepprath, Nichole; Foit, Franklin F.

2013-01-01

In October 2009, two trenches excavated across an 11-kilometer-long scarp at Wenas Valley in central Washington exposed evidence for late Quaternary deformation. Lidar imagery of the Wenas Valley illuminated the west-northwest-trending, 2- to 8-meter-high scarp as it bisected alluvial fans developed at the mouths of canyons along the south side of Umtanum Ridge. The alignment of the scarp and aeromagnetic lineaments suggested that the scarp may be a product of and controlled by the same tectonic structure that produced the magnetic lineaments. Several large landslides mapped in the area demonstrated the potential for large mass-wasting events in the area. In order to test whether the scarp was the result of an earthquake-generated surface rupture or a landslide, trenches were excavated at Hessler Flats and McCabe Place. The profiles of bedrock and soil stratigraphy that underlie the scarp in each trench were photographed, mapped, and described, and a sequence of depositional and deformational events established for each trench. The McCabe Place trench exposed a sequence of volcaniclastic deposits overlain by soils and alluvial deposits separated by three unconformities. Six normal faults and two possible reverse faults deformed the exposed strata. Crosscutting relations indicated that up to five earthquakes occurred on a blind reverse fault, and a microprobe analysis of lapilli suggested that the earliest faulting occurred after 47,000 years before present. The Hessler Flat trench exposure revealed weathered bedrock that abuts loess and colluvium deposits and is overlain by soil, an upper sequence of loess, and colluvium. The latter two units bury a distinctive paloesol.

Flynn Creek Impact Structure: New Insights from Breccias, Melt Features, Shatter Cones, and Remote Sensing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Evenick, J. C.; Lee, P.; Deane, B.

2004-01-01

The Flynn Creek impact structure is located in Tennessee, USA (36 deg.17 min.N, 85 deg.40 min.W). The structure was first mapped as a crypto-volcanic by Wilson and Born in 1936 [1]. Although they did not properly identify the stratigraphy within the crater or the causal mechanism, they did correctly define the horizontal extent of the crater. More detailed surface and subsurface research by Roddy (1979) accurately described the crater as being an impact structure with a diameter of 3.8 km. It formed around 360 Ma, which corresponds to the interval between the deposition of the Nashville Group and the Chattanooga Shale. Although there is limited rock outcrop in the area, there are exposed surface faults, folds, and large outcrops of impact breccia within the crater.

Influence of corrosive solutions on microhardness and chemistry of magnesium oxide /001/ surfaces

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ishigaki, H.; Miyoshi, K.; Buckley, D. H.

1982-01-01

X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analyses and hardness experiments were conducted on cleaved magnesium oxide /001/ surfaces. The magnesium oxide bulk crystals were cleaved to specimen size along the /001/ surface, and indentations were made on the cleaved surface in corrosive solutions containing HCl, NaOH, or HNO3 and in water without exposing the specimen to any other environment. The results indicated that chloride (such as MgCl2) and sodium films are formed on the magnesium oxide surface as a result of interactions between an HCl-containing solution and a cleaved magnesium oxide surface. The chloride films soften the magnesium oxide surface. In this case microhardness is strongly influenced by the pH value of the solution. The lower the pH, the lower the microhardness. Sodium films, which are formed on the magnesium oxide surface exposed to an NaOH containing solution, do not soften the magnesium oxide surface.

Influence of mechanical and chemical surface treatments on the formation of bone-like structure in cpTi for endosseous dental implants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Parsikia, Farhang; Amini, Pupak; Asgari, Sirous

2012-10-01

Commercially pure titanium samples were exposed to grit blasting and acid-alkali treatments to obtain a variety of surface compositions and morphologies. Contact roughness test and microstructural studies were employed to study the surface topography of the samples. The nature and chemical composition of surface phases were evaluated using X-ray diffraction and microanalysis techniques. Selected samples first exposed to in vitro environment were then tested to determine the surface morphology and surface microstructure. Based on the data presented in this work, it is suggested that grit blasting process utilized prior to chemical treatment stage, yields a high quality surface morphology. Such a surface morphology is expected to have superior tribological characteristics after osseointegration. Also, it appeared that the reverse sequence of processing resulted in a better biocompatibility of the product manifested by negligible amount of residual alumina on the sample surface.

Cryoplanation terraces of interior and western Alaska

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reger, R. D.

1993-01-01

Cryoplanation terraces are step- or table like residual landforms consisting of a nearly horizontal bedrock surface covered by a thin veneer of rock debris and bounded by ascending or descending scarps or both. Among examples studied, rubble-covered scarps range in height from 3 to 76 m and slope from 9 deg to 32 deg; nearly vertical scarps exist where bedrock is exposed or thinly buried. Simple transverse nivation hollows, which are occupied by large seasonal snow banks, commonly indent the lower surfaces of sharply angular ascending scarps. Terrace treads slope from 1 deg to 10 deg and commonly cut across bedrock structures such as bedding, rock contacts, foliation, joints, faults, and shear zones. Debris on terrace treads is generally 0.8-2.5 m thick. Permafrost table is generally present from 0.5 to 2 m below the tread surface. Permafrost is shallowest in the floors of nivation hollows and deepest in the well-drained margins of terrace treads. Side slopes of cryoplanation terraces are shallowly buried bedrock surfaces that are littered with a variety of mass-movement deposits.

Lipoteichoic acids are embedded in cell walls during logarithmic phase, but exposed on membrane vesicles in Lactobacillus gasseri JCM 1131T.

PubMed

Shiraishi, T; Yokota, S; Sato, Y; Ito, T; Fukiya, S; Yamamoto, S; Sato, T; Yokota, A

2018-06-15

Lipoteichoic acid (LTA) is a cell surface molecule specific to Gram-positive bacteria. How LTA localises on the cell surface is a fundamental issue in view of recognition and immunomodulation in hosts. In the present study, we examined LTA localisation using strain JCM 1131T of Lactobacillus gasseri, which is a human intestinal lactic acid bacterium, during various growth phases by immunoelectron microscopy. We first evaluated the specificity of anti-LTA monoclonal antibody clone 55 used as a probe. The glycerophosphate backbone comprising almost intact size (20 to 30 repeating units) of LTA was required for binding. The antibody did not bind to other cellular components, including wall-teichoic acid. Immunoelectron microscopy indicated that LTA was embedded in the cell wall during the logarithmic phase, and was therefore not exposed on the cell surface. Similar results were observed for Lactobacillus fermentum ATCC 9338 and Lactobacillus rhamnosus ATCC 7469T. By contrast, membrane vesicles were observed in the logarithmic phase of L. gasseri with LTA exposed on their surface. In the stationary and death phases, LTA was exposed on cell wall-free cell membrane generated by autolysis. The dramatic alternation of localisation in different growth phases and exposure on the surface of membrane vesicles should relate with complicated interaction between bacteria and host.

Schools of Excellence and Equity? Using Equity Audits as a Tool to Expose a Flawed System of Recognition

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brown, Kathleen M.

2010-01-01

The purpose of this article is to demonstrate how equity audits can be used as a tool to expose disparate achievement in schools that, on the surface and to the public, appear quite similar. To that end, the researcher probed beyond surface-level performance composite scores into deeper, more hidden data associated with state-recognized…

Observing Planets and Small Bodies in Sputtered High Energy Atom (SHEA) Fluxes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Milillo, A.; Orsini, S.; Hsieh, K. C.; Baragiola, R.; Fama, M.; Johnson, R.; Mura, A.; Plainaki, Ch.; Sarantos, M.; Cassidy, T. A.;

Application of ground-penetrating radar to investigation of near-surface fault properties in the San Francisco Bay region

USGS Publications Warehouse

Cai, J.; McMechan, G.A.; Fisher, M.A.

1996-01-01

In many geologic environments, ground-penetrating radar (GPR) provides high-resolution images of near-surface Earth structure. GPR data collection is nondestructive and very economical. The scale of features detected by GPR lies between those imaged by high-resolution seismic reflection surveys and those exposed in trenches and is therefore potentially complementary to traditional techniques for fault location and mapping. Sixty-two GPR profiles were collected at 12 sites in the San Francisco Bay region. Results show that GPR data correlate with large-scale features in existing trench observations, can be used to locate faults where they are buried or where their positions are not well known, and can identify previously unknown fault segments. The best data acquired were on a profile across the San Andreas fault, traversing Pleistocene terrace deposits south of Olema in Marin County; this profile shows a complicated multi-branched fault system from the ground surface down to about 40 m, the maximum depth for which data were recorded.

Respiration in heterotrophic unicellular eukaryotic organisms.

PubMed

Fenchel, Tom

2014-08-01

Surface:volume quotient, mitochondrial volume fraction, and their distribution within cells were investigated and oxygen gradients within and outside cells were modelled. Cell surface increases allometrically with cell size. Mitochondrial volume fraction is invariant with cell size and constitutes about 10% and mitochondria are predominantly found close to the outer membrane. The results predict that for small and medium sized protozoa maximum respiration rates should be proportional to cell volume (scaling exponent ≈1) and access to intracellular O2 is not limiting except at very low ambient O2-tensions. Available data do not contradict this and some evidence supports this interpretation. Cell size is ultimately limited because an increasing fraction of the mitochondria becomes exposed to near anoxic conditions with increasing cell size. The fact that mitochondria cluster close to the cell surface and the allometric change in cell shape with increasing cell size alleviates the limitation of aerobic life at low ambient O2-tension and for large cell size. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Partial analysis of experiment LDEF A-0114

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gregory, J. C.

1986-01-01

Due to delays in manifesting the return of the Long Duration Exposure Facility from space, attention was concentrated on extracting the maximum information from the EIOM-2 (oxygen interaction with materials experiment) flown on STS-8 in September 1983. An analysis was made of the optical surfaces exposed during that flight and an assessment made of the effect of the 5 eV atomic oxygen upon their physical and chemical properties. The surfaces studied were of two types: high-purity thin films sputtered or evaporated onto 2.54-cm diam lambda/20 fused silica optical flats, and highly polished bulk samples. Rapid etching of carbon and carbonaceous surfaces was observed with polycarbonate CR-39 showing the largest etch of any substrate flown and measured. Of the metals tested, only osmium and silver showed large effects, the former being heavily etched and the later forming a very thick layer of oxide. The first measurable effects on iridium, aluminum, nickel, tungsten and niobium thin films are reported.

Mars south polar spring and summer temperatures - A residual CO2 frost

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kieffer, H. H.

1979-01-01

Viking infrared thermal mapper (IRTM) energy measurements over the Mars south polar cap throughout the Martian spring and summer revealed complex spatial, spectral, and temporal variations. High albedos did not directly correspond with low temperatures, and as the cap shrank to its residual position, it maintained large differences in brightness temperature between the four IRTM surface-sensing bands at 7, 9, 11, and 20 microns. The late summer infrared spectral pattern can be matched by a surface consisting of CO2 frost with 20 micron emissivity of 0.8 and about 6% dark, warm soil under a dusty atmosphere of moderate infrared opacity and spectral properties similar to those measured for the Martian global dust storms. Low temperature, the absence of appreciable water vapor in the south polar atmosphere, and the absence of surface warming expected if H2O were to become exposed, all imply that the residual south polar cap was covered by solid CO2.

Quantitative proteomic view on secreted, cell surface-associated, and cytoplasmic proteins of the methicillin-resistant human pathogen Staphylococcus aureus under iron-limited conditions.

PubMed

Hempel, Kristina; Herbst, Florian-Alexander; Moche, Martin; Hecker, Michael; Becher, Dörte

2011-04-01

Staphylococcus aureus is capable of colonizing and infecting humans by its arsenal of surface-exposed and secreted proteins. Iron-limited conditions in mammalian body fluids serve as a major environmental signal to bacteria to express virulence determinants. Here we present a comprehensive, gel-free, and GeLC-MS/MS-based quantitative proteome profiling of S. aureus under this infection-relevant situation. (14)N(15)N metabolic labeling and three complementing approaches were combined for relative quantitative analyses of surface-associated proteins. The surface-exposed and secreted proteome profiling approaches comprise trypsin shaving, biotinylation, and precipitation of the supernatant. By analysis of the outer subproteomic and cytoplasmic protein fraction, 1210 proteins could be identified including 221 surface-associated proteins. Thus, access was enabled to 70% of the predicted cell wall-associated proteins, 80% of the predicted sortase substrates, two/thirds of lipoproteins and more than 50% of secreted and cytoplasmic proteins. For iron-deficiency, 158 surface-associated proteins were quantified. Twenty-nine proteins were found in altered amounts showing particularly surface-exposed proteins strongly induced, such as the iron-regulated surface determinant proteins IsdA, IsdB, IsdC and IsdD as well as lipid-anchored iron compound-binding proteins. The work presents a crucial subject for understanding S. aureus pathophysiology by the use of methods that allow quantitative surface proteome profiling.

In vivo remineralization of dentin using an agarose hydrogel biomimetic mineralization system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Han, Min; Li, Quan-Li; Cao, Ying; Fang, Hui; Xia, Rong; Zhang, Zhi-Hong

2017-02-01

A novel agarose hydrogel biomimetic mineralization system loaded with calcium and phosphate was used to remineralize dentin and induce the oriented densely parallel packed HA layer on defective dentin surface in vivo in a rabbit model. Firstly, the enamel of the labial surface of rabbits’ incisor was removed and the dentin was exposed to oral environment. Secondly, the hydrogel biomimetic mineralization system was applied to the exposed dentin surface by using a custom tray. Finally, the teeth were extracted and evaluated by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and nanoindentation test after a certain time of mineralization intervals. The regenerated tissue on the dentin surface was composed of highly organised HA crystals. Densely packed along the c axis, these newly precipitated HA crystals were perpendicular to the underlying dental surface with a tight bond. The demineralized dentin was remineralized and dentinal tubules were occluded by the grown HA crystals. The nanohardness and elastic modulus of the regenerated tissue were similar to natural dentin. The results indicated a potential clinical use for repairing dentin-exposed related diseases, such as erosion, wear, and dentin hypersensitivity.

Electron transfer kinetics on natural crystals of MoS2 and graphite.

PubMed

Velický, Matěj; Bissett, Mark A; Toth, Peter S; Patten, Hollie V; Worrall, Stephen D; Rodgers, Andrew N J; Hill, Ernie W; Kinloch, Ian A; Novoselov, Konstantin S; Georgiou, Thanasis; Britnell, Liam; Dryfe, Robert A W

2015-07-21

Here, we evaluate the electrochemical performance of sparsely studied natural crystals of molybdenite and graphite, which have increasingly been used for fabrication of next generation monolayer molybdenum disulphide and graphene energy storage devices. Heterogeneous electron transfer kinetics of several redox mediators, including Fe(CN)6(3-/4-), Ru(NH3)6(3+/2+) and IrCl6(2-/3-) are determined using voltammetry in a micro-droplet cell. The kinetics on both materials are studied as a function of surface defectiveness, surface ageing, applied potential and illumination. We find that the basal planes of both natural MoS2 and graphite show significant electroactivity, but a large decrease in electron transfer kinetics is observed on atmosphere-aged surfaces in comparison to in situ freshly cleaved surfaces of both materials. This is attributed to surface oxidation and adsorption of airborne contaminants at the surface exposed to an ambient environment. In contrast to semimetallic graphite, the electrode kinetics on semiconducting MoS2 are strongly dependent on the surface illumination and applied potential. Furthermore, while visibly present defects/cracks do not significantly affect the response of graphite, the kinetics on MoS2 systematically accelerate with small increase in disorder. These findings have direct implications for use of MoS2 and graphene/graphite as electrode materials in electrochemistry-related applications.

Internal stress induced natural self-chemisorption of ZnO nanostructured films

PubMed Central

Chi, Po-Wei; Su, Chih-Wei; Wei, Da-Hua

2017-01-01

The energetic particles bombardment can produce large internal stress in the zinc oxide (ZnO) thin film, and it can be used to intentionally modify the surface characteristics of ZnO films. In this article, we observed that the internal stress increased from −1.62 GPa to −0.33 GPa, and the naturally wettability of the textured ZnO nanostructured films changed from hydrophobicity to hydrophilicity. According to analysis of surface chemical states, the naturally controllable wetting behavior can be attributed to hydrocarbon adsorbates on the nanostructured film surface, which is caused by tunable internal stress. On the other hand, the interfacial water molecules near the surface of ZnO nanostructured films have been identified as hydrophobic hydrogen structure by Fourier transform infrared/attenuated total reflection. Moreover, a remarkable near-band-edge emission peak shifting also can be observed in PL spectra due to the transition of internal stress state. Furthermore, our present ZnO nanostructured films also exhibited excellent transparency over 80% with a wise surface wetting switched from hydrophobic to hydrophilic states after exposing in ultraviolet (UV) surroundings. Our work demonstrated that the internal stress of the thin film not only induced natural wettability transition of ZnO nanostructured films, but also in turn affected the surface properties such as surface chemisorption. PMID:28233827

Internal stress induced natural self-chemisorption of ZnO nanostructured films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chi, Po-Wei; Su, Chih-Wei; Wei, Da-Hua

2017-02-01

The energetic particles bombardment can produce large internal stress in the zinc oxide (ZnO) thin film, and it can be used to intentionally modify the surface characteristics of ZnO films. In this article, we observed that the internal stress increased from -1.62 GPa to -0.33 GPa, and the naturally wettability of the textured ZnO nanostructured films changed from hydrophobicity to hydrophilicity. According to analysis of surface chemical states, the naturally controllable wetting behavior can be attributed to hydrocarbon adsorbates on the nanostructured film surface, which is caused by tunable internal stress. On the other hand, the interfacial water molecules near the surface of ZnO nanostructured films have been identified as hydrophobic hydrogen structure by Fourier transform infrared/attenuated total reflection. Moreover, a remarkable near-band-edge emission peak shifting also can be observed in PL spectra due to the transition of internal stress state. Furthermore, our present ZnO nanostructured films also exhibited excellent transparency over 80% with a wise surface wetting switched from hydrophobic to hydrophilic states after exposing in ultraviolet (UV) surroundings. Our work demonstrated that the internal stress of the thin film not only induced natural wettability transition of ZnO nanostructured films, but also in turn affected the surface properties such as surface chemisorption.

Internal stress induced natural self-chemisorption of ZnO nanostructured films.

PubMed

Chi, Po-Wei; Su, Chih-Wei; Wei, Da-Hua

2017-02-24

The energetic particles bombardment can produce large internal stress in the zinc oxide (ZnO) thin film, and it can be used to intentionally modify the surface characteristics of ZnO films. In this article, we observed that the internal stress increased from -1.62 GPa to -0.33 GPa, and the naturally wettability of the textured ZnO nanostructured films changed from hydrophobicity to hydrophilicity. According to analysis of surface chemical states, the naturally controllable wetting behavior can be attributed to hydrocarbon adsorbates on the nanostructured film surface, which is caused by tunable internal stress. On the other hand, the interfacial water molecules near the surface of ZnO nanostructured films have been identified as hydrophobic hydrogen structure by Fourier transform infrared/attenuated total reflection. Moreover, a remarkable near-band-edge emission peak shifting also can be observed in PL spectra due to the transition of internal stress state. Furthermore, our present ZnO nanostructured films also exhibited excellent transparency over 80% with a wise surface wetting switched from hydrophobic to hydrophilic states after exposing in ultraviolet (UV) surroundings. Our work demonstrated that the internal stress of the thin film not only induced natural wettability transition of ZnO nanostructured films, but also in turn affected the surface properties such as surface chemisorption.

Dusty Plasmas on the Lunar Surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Horanyi, M.; Andersson, L.; Colwell, J.; Ergun, R.; Gruen, E.; McClintock, B.; Peterson, W. K.; Robertson, S.; Sternovsky, Z.; Wang, X.

2006-12-01

The electrostatic levitation and transport of lunar dust remains one of the most interesting and controversial science issues from the Apollo era. This issue is also of great engineering importance in designing human habitats and protecting optical and mechanical devices. As function of time and location, the lunar surface is exposed to solar wind plasma, UV radiation, and/or the plasma environment of our magnetosphere. Dust grains on the lunar surface collect an electrostatic charge; alter the large-scale surface charge density distribution, ?and subsequently develop an interface region to the background plasma and radiation. There are several in situ and remote sensing observations that indicate that dusty plasma processes are likely to be responsible for the mobilization and transport of lunar soil. These processes are relevant to: a) understanding the lunar surface environment; b) develop dust mitigation strategies; c) to understand the basic physical processes involved in the birth and collapse of dust loaded plasma sheaths. This talk will focus on the dusty plasma processes on the lunar surface. We will review the existing body of observations, and will also consider future opportunities for the combination of in situ and remote sensing observations. Our goals are to characterize: a) the temporal variation of the spatial and size distributions of the levitated/transported dust; and b) the surface plasma environment

Large format lithium ion pouch cell full thermal characterisation for improved electric vehicle thermal management

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grandjean, Thomas; Barai, Anup; Hosseinzadeh, Elham; Guo, Yue; McGordon, Andrew; Marco, James

2017-08-01

It is crucial to maintain temperature homogeneity in lithium ion batteries in order to prevent adverse voltage distributions and differential ageing within the cell. As such, the thermal behaviour of a large-format 20 Ah lithium iron phosphate pouch cell is investigated over a wide range of ambient temperatures and C rates during both charging and discharging. Whilst previous studies have only considered one surface, this article presents experimental results, which characterise both surfaces of the cell exposed to similar thermal media and boundary conditions, allowing for thermal gradients in-plane and perpendicular to the stack to be quantified. Temperature gradients, caused by self-heating, are found to increase with increasing C rate and decreasing temperature to such an extent that 13.4 ± 0.7% capacity can be extracted using a 10C discharge compared to a 0.5C discharge, both at -10 °C ambient temperature. The former condition causes an 18.8 ± 1.1 °C in plane gradient and a 19.7 ± 0.8 °C thermal gradient perpendicular to the stack, which results in large current density distributions and local state of charge differences within the cell. The implications of these thermal and electrical inhomogeneities on ageing and battery pack design for the automotive industry are discussed.

Erosion of graphite surface exposed to hot supersonic hydrogen gas

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sharma, O. P.

1972-01-01

A theoretical model based on laminar boundary layer flow equations was developed to predict the erosion rate of a graphite (AGCarb-101) surface exposed to a hot supersonic stream of hydrogen gas. The supersonic flow in the nozzle outside the boundary layer formed over the surface of the specimen was determined by assuming one-dimensional isentropic conditions. An overall surface reaction rate expression based on experimental studies was used to describe the interaction of hydrogen with graphite. A satisfactory agreement was found between the results of the computation, and the available experimental data. Some shortcomings of the model and further possible improvements are discussed.

Erosion of graphite surface exposed to hot supersonic hydrogen gas

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sharma, O. P.

1972-01-01

A theoretical model based on laminar boundary layer flow equations is developed to predict the erosion rate of a graphite (AGCarb-101) surface exposed to a hot supersonic stream of hydrogen gas. The supersonic flow in the nozzle outside the boundary layer formed over the surface of the specimen is determined by assuming one-dimensional isentropic conditions. An overall surface reaction rate expression based on the experimental studies by Clarke and Fox is used to describe the interaction of hydrogen with graphite. A satisfactory agreement is found between the results of the computation, and the available experimental data. Some shortcomings of the model, and further possible improvements are discussed.

Surface microhardness of a resin composite exposed to a "first-generation" LED curing lamp, in vitro.

PubMed

Keogh, Pauraic; Ray, Noel J; Lynch, Christopher D; Burke, Francis M; Hannigan, Ailish

2004-12-01

This investigation determined the minimum exposure times consistent with optimised surface microhardness parameters for a commercial resin composite cured using a "first-generation" light-emitting diode activation lamp. Disk specimens were exposed and surface microhardness numbers measured at the top and bottom surfaces for elapsed times of 1 hour and 24 hours. Bottom/top microhardness number ratios were also calculated. Most microhardness data increased significantly over the elapsed time interval but microhardness ratios (bottom/top) were dependent on exposure time only. A minimum exposure of 40 secs is appropriate to optimise microhardness parameters for the combination of resin composite and lamp investigated.

Extent and Depth to Top of Basalt and Interbed Hydrogeologic Units, Yakima River Basin Aquifer System, Washington

USGS Publications Warehouse

Jones, M.A.; Vaccaro, J.J.

2008-01-01

The hydrogeologic framework was delineated for the ground-water flow system of the three basalt formations and two interbeds in the Yakima River Basin, Washington. The basalt units are nearly equivalent to the Saddle Mountains, Wanapum, and Grande Ronde. The two major interbed units between the basalt formations generally are referred to as the Mabton and Vantage. The basalt formations are a productive source of ground-water for the Yakima River Basin. The Grande Ronde unit comprises the largest area in the Yakima River Basin aquifer system. This unit encompasses an area of about 5,390 mi2 and ranges in altitude from 6,900 ft, where it is exposed at land surface, to a depth of 2,800 ft below land surface. The Wanapum unit encompasses an area of 3,450 mi2 and ranges in altitude from 5,680 ft, where exposed at land surface, to a depth of 2,050 ft below land surface. The Saddle Mountains unit, the least extensive, encompasses an area of 2,290 mi2 and ranges from 4,290 ft, where exposed at the surface, to a depth of 1,840 ft below land surface.

Window contamination on Expose-R

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Demets, R.; Bertrand, M.; Bolkhovitinov, A.; Bryson, K.; Colas, C.; Cottin, H.; Dettmann, J.; Ehrenfreund, P.; Elsaesser, A.; Jaramillo, E.; Lebert, M.; van Papendrecht, G.; Pereira, C.; Rohr, T.; Saiagh, K.

2015-01-01

Expose is a multi-user instrument for astrobiological and astrochemical experiments in space. Installed at the outer surface of the International Space Station, it enables investigators to study the impact of the open space environment on biological and biochemical test samples. Two Expose missions have been completed so far, designated as Expose-E (Rabbow et al. 2012) and Expose-R (Rabbow et al. this issue). One of the space-unique environmental factors offered by Expose is full-spectrum, ultraviolet (UV)-rich electromagnetic radiation from the Sun. This paper describes and analyses how on Expose-R, access of the test samples to Solar radiation degraded during space exposure in an unpredicted way. Several windows in front of the Sun-exposed test samples acquired a brown shade, resulting in a reduced transparency in visible light, UV and vacuum UV (VUV). Post-flight investigations revealed the discolouration to be caused by a homogenous film of cross-linked organic polymers at the inside of the windows. The chemical signature varied per sample carrier. No such films were found on windows from sealed, pressurized compartments, or on windows that had been kept out of the Sun. This suggests that volatile compounds originating from the interior of the Expose facility were cross-linked and photo-fixed by Solar irradiation at the rear side of the windows. The origin of the volatiles was not fully identified; most probably there was a variety of sources involved including the biological test samples, adhesives, plastics and printed circuit boards. The outer surface of the windows (pointing into space) was chemically impacted as well, with a probable effect on the transparency in VUV. The reported analysis of the window contamination on Expose-R is expected to help the interpretation of the scientific results and offers possibilities to mitigate this problem on future missions - in particular Expose-R2, the direct successor of Expose-R.

Present-day Exposures of Water Ice in the Northern Mid-latitudes of Mars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Allen, Carlton C.; Kanner, Lisa C.

2007-01-01

Water ice is exposed in the martian north polar cap, but is rarely exposed beyond the cap boundary. Orbital gamma ray spectrometry data strongly imply the presence of water ice within meters of the surface at latitudes north of approximately 60deg. We have examined mid-latitude areas of the northern plains displaying residual ice-rich layers, and report evidence of present-day surface exposures of water ice. These exposures, if confirmed, could con-strain the latitudinal and temporal stability of surface ice on Mars.

Effects of Iron Deficiency on Iron Binding and Internalization into Acidic Vacuoles in Dunaliella salina1[W][OA

PubMed Central

Paz, Yakov; Shimoni, Eyal; Weiss, Meira; Pick, Uri

2007-01-01

Uptake of iron in the halotolerant alga Dunaliella salina is mediated by a transferrin-like protein (TTf), which binds and internalizes Fe3+ ions. Recently, we found that iron deficiency induces a large enhancement of iron binding, which is associated with accumulation of three other plasma membrane proteins that associate with TTf. In this study, we characterized the kinetic properties of iron binding and internalization and identified the site of iron internalization. Iron deficiency induces a 4-fold increase in Fe binding, but only 50% enhancement in the rate of iron uptake and also increases the affinity for iron and bicarbonate, a coligand for iron binding. These results indicate that iron deprivation leads to accumulation and modification of iron-binding sites. Iron uptake in iron-sufficient cells is preceded by an apparent time lag, resulting from prebound iron, which can be eliminated by unloading iron-binding sites. Iron is tightly bound to surface-exposed sites and hardly exchanges with medium iron. All bound iron is subsequently internalized. Accumulation of iron inhibits further iron binding and internalization. The vacuolar inhibitor bafilomycin inhibits iron uptake and internalization. Internalized iron was localized by electron microscopy within vacuolar structures that were identified as acidic vacuoles. Iron internalization is accompanied by endocytosis of surface proteins into these acidic vacuoles. A novel kinetic mechanism for iron uptake is proposed, which includes two pools of bound/compartmentalized iron separated by a rate-limiting internalization stage. The major parameter that is modulated by iron deficiency is the iron-binding capacity. We propose that excessive iron binding in iron-deficient cells serves as a temporary reservoir for iron that is subsequently internalized. This mechanism is particularly suitable for organisms that are exposed to large fluctuations in iron availability. PMID:17513481

Near and far field contamination modeling in a large scale enclosure: Fire Dynamics Simulator comparisons with measured observations.

PubMed

Ryder, Noah L; Schemel, Christopher F; Jankiewicz, Sean P

2006-03-17

The occurrence of a fire, no matter how small, often exposes objects to significant levels of contamination from the products of combustion. The production and dispersal of these contaminants has been an issue of relevance in the field of fire science for many years, though little work has been done to examine the contamination levels accumulated within an enclosure some time after an incident. This phenomenon is of great importance when considering the consequences associated with even low level contamination of sensitive materials, such as food, pharmaceuticals, clothing, electrical equipment, etc. Not only does such exposure present a localized hazard, but also the shipment of contaminated goods places distant recipients at risk. It is the intent of this paper to use a well-founded computational fluid dynamic (CFD) program, the Fire Dynamics Simulator (FDS), a large eddy simulation (LES) code developed by National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), to model smoke dispersion in order to assess the subject of air contamination and post fire surface contamination in a warehouse facility. Measured results are then compared with the results from the FDS model. Two components are examined: the production rate of contaminates and the trajectory of contaminates caused by the forced ventilation conditions. Each plays an important role in determining the extent to which the products of combustion are dispersed and the levels to which products are exposed to the contaminants throughout the enclosure. The model results indicate a good first-order approximation to the measured surface contamination levels. The proper application of the FDS model can provide a cost and time efficient means of evaluating contamination levels within a defined volume.

Midlatitude Ice-Rich Ground on Mars: An Important Target for Science and In Situ Resource Utilization on Human Missions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stoker, Carol; Heldmann, Jennifer

2015-01-01

The region of ROI is characterized by proven presence of near surface ground ice and numerous periglacial features. Midlatitude ground ice on Mars is of significant scientific interest for understanding the history and evolution of ice stability on Mars, the impact that changes in insolation produced by variations in Mars’ orbital parameters has on the regions climate, and could provide human exploration with a reliable and plentiful in situ resource. For both science and exploration, assessing the astrobiological potential of the ice is important in terms of (1) understanding the potential for life on Mars and (2) evaluating the presence of possible biohazards in advance of human exploration. Heldmann et al. (2014) studied locations on Mars in the Amazonis Planitia region where near surface ground ice was exposed by new impact craters (Byrne et al. 2009). The study examined whether sites in this region were suitable for human exploration including reviewing the evidence for midlatitude ground ice, discussing the possible explanations for its occurrence, assessing its potential habitability for modern life, and evaluating the resource potential. They systematically analyzed remote-sensing data sets to identify a viable landing site. Five sites where ground ice was exposed were examined with HiRise imaging and were classified according to (1) presence of polygons as a proxy for subsurface ice, (2) presence and abundance of rough topographic obstacles (e.g., large cracks, cliffs, uneven topography), (3) rock density, (4) presence and abundance of large boulders, and (5) presence of craters. A suitable landing site was found having ground ice at only 0.15m depth, and no landing site hazards within a 25 km landing ellipse. This paper presents results of that study and examines the relevance of this ROI to the workshop goals.

Evolution of organic molecules under Mars-like UV radiation with EXPOSE-R2, a photochemistry experiment outside the International Space Station

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rouquette, Laura; Stalport, Fabien; Cottin, Hervé; Coll, Patrice; Szopa, Cyril; Saiagh, Kafila; Poch, Olivier; Khalaf, Diana; Chaput, Didier; Grira, Katia; Chaouche, Naila; Dequaire, Tristan

2016-10-01

The detection and identification of organic molecules on Mars are of prime importance, as some of these molecules are life precursors and components. While in situ planetary missions are searching for them, it is essential to understand how organic molecules evolve and are preserved at the surface of Mars. Indeed the harsh conditions of the environment of Mars such as ultraviolet (UV) radiation or oxidative processes could explain the low abundance and diversity of organic molecules detected by now.The EXPOSE R2 facility has been placed in low Earth orbit (LEO) under solar radiation, outside the International Space Station (ISS) in 2014. One of the EXPOSE R2 experiment, called PSS (Photochemistry on the Space Station), is dedicated to astrobiology- and astrochemistry-related studies. Part of PSS samples have been dedicated to the study of the evolution of organic molecules under Mars-like surface radiation conditions. Indeed, UV radiation above 200 nm reaches the surface of Mars and could degrade organic matter. Organic samples have been exposed directly to the Sun under KBr filters (>200 nm) from November 2014 to February 2016, mimicking the UV radiation conditions of the surface of Mars. Four types of samples were exposed as thin layers of solid molecules: adenine, adenine with nontronite (a kind of clay mineral detected on Mars), chrysene and glycine with nontronite.To characterize the evolution of our samples under irradiation, infrared (IR) transmission analyses were performed, before the launch of EXPOSE R2 to the ISS in 2014, and after the exposure in space and the return on Earth, this year. These analyses allowed determining whether each molecule is preserved or photodegraded, and if so, its photolysis rate. The effect of nontronite on organic molecules preservation has been investigated as well. We also compared these results from LEO with laboratory data, obtained by irradiating organic samples under a UV lamp.

Erosive Potential of Cola and Orange Fruit Juice on Tooth Colored Restorative Materials

PubMed Central

Rajavardhan, K; Sankar, AJS; Kumar, MGM; Kumar, KR; Pranitha, K; Kishore, KK

2014-01-01

Background: Erosion is a common condition which manifests due to consumption of high caloric and low pH acidic food stuffs such as carbonated drinks and fruit juices which cause irreversible damage to dental hard tissues and early deterioration of the dental restorations. Aim: The main aim of this study is to evaluate and to compare the erosive potential of carbonated drink (cola) and fruit juice (orange fruit juice) by measuring the surface roughness (Ra) values on two commonly used dental restorative materials. Materials and Methods: A total of 36 specimens each were prepared using both testing materials, compomer (Group I) and giomer (Group II). Six specimens in each group were discarded due to wide variation in pre exposed Ra values and the remaining 30 specimens in each group were further sub divided into 10 samples each according to the testing media used. Immersion regime was followed according to Von Fraunhofer and Rogers. The pre and post immersion surface roughness values were recorded using a profilometer. Results: Both tested materials showed statistically-significant surface erosion (P < 0.01) when exposed to cola and orange fruit juice than the control group (water). Discussion: Compomer showed more surface roughness when compared to giomer when exposed to the three tested media which can be attributed to the variation in filler content, decomposition of resin matrix and fallout of the fillers in composites when exposed to acidic drinks. Other factors responsible for this significant erosion were also discussed. Conclusions: Significant surface changes of the dental restorative materials can take place when exposed to low pH drinks for a prolonged period. PMID:25364590

Developing magnetorheological finishing (MRF) technology for the manufacture of large-aperture optics in megajoule class laser systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Menapace, Joseph A.

2010-11-01

Over the last eight years we have been developing advanced MRF tools and techniques to manufacture meter-scale optics for use in Megajoule class laser systems. These systems call for optics having unique characteristics that can complicate their fabrication using conventional polishing methods. First, exposure to the high-power nanosecond and sub-nanosecond pulsed laser environment in the infrared (>27 J/cm2 at 1053 nm), visible (>18 J/cm2 at 527 nm), and ultraviolet (>10 J/cm2 at 351 nm) demands ultra-precise control of optical figure and finish to avoid intensity modulation and scatter that can result in damage to the optics chain or system hardware. Second, the optics must be super-polished and virtually free of surface and subsurface flaws that can limit optic lifetime through laser-induced damage initiation and growth at the flaw sites, particularly at 351 nm. Lastly, ultra-precise optics for beam conditioning are required to control laser beam quality. These optics contain customized surface topographical structures that cannot be made using traditional fabrication processes. In this review, we will present the development and implementation of large-aperture MRF tools and techniques specifically designed to meet the demanding optical performance challenges required in large aperture high-power laser systems. In particular, we will discuss the advances made by using MRF technology to expose and remove surface and subsurface flaws in optics during final polishing to yield optics with improve laser damage resistance, the novel application of MRF deterministic polishing to imprint complex topographical information and wavefront correction patterns onto optical surfaces, and our efforts to advance the technology to manufacture largeaperture damage resistant optics.

Shear strength of metal-sapphire contacts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pepper, S. V.

1976-01-01

The shear strength of polycrystalline Ag, Cu, Ni, and Fe contacts on clean (0001) sapphire has been studied in ultrahigh vacuum. Both clean metal surfaces and surfaces exposed to O2, Cl2, and C2H4 were used. The results indicate that there are two sources of strength of Al2O3-metal contacts: an intrinsic one that depends on the particular clean metal in contact with Al2O3 and an additional one due to intermediate films. The shear strength of the clean metal contacts correlated directly with the free energy of oxide formation for the lowest metal oxide, in accord with the hypothesis that a chemical bond is formed between metal cations and oxygen anions in the sapphire surface. Contacts formed by metals exposed to chlorine exhibited uniformly low shear strength indicative of van der Waals bonding between chlorinated metal surfaces and sapphire. Contacts formed by metals exposed to oxygen exhibited enhanced shear strength, in accord with the hypothesis that an intermediate oxide layer increases interfacial strength.

Stability domain of alumina thermally grown on Fe-Cr-Al-based model alloys and modified surface layers exposed to oxygen-containing molten Pb

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jianu, A.; Fetzer, R.; Weisenburger, A.; Doyle, S.; Bruns, M.; Heinzel, A.; Hosemann, P.; Mueller, G.

2016-03-01

The paper gives experimental results concerning the morphology, composition, structure and thickness of the oxide scales grown on Fe-Cr-Al-based bulk alloys during exposure to oxygen-containing molten lead. The results are discussed and compared with former results obtained on Al-containing surface layers, modified by melting with intense pulsed electron beam and exposed to similar conditions. The present and previous results provide the alumina stability domain and also the criterion of the Al/Cr ratio for the formation of a highly protective alumina layer on the surface of Fe-Cr-Al-based alloys and on modified surface layers exposed to molten lead with 10-6 wt.% oxygen at 400-600 °C. The protective oxide scales, grown on alumina-forming Fe-Cr-Al alloys under the given experimental conditions, were transient aluminas, namely, kappa-Al2O3 and theta-Al2O3.

Transuranic contamination of stainless steel in nitric acid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kerry, Timothy; Banford, Anthony W.; Thompson, Olivia R.; Carey, Thomas; Schild, Dieter; Geist, Andreas; Sharrad, Clint A.

2017-09-01

Stainless steels coupons have been exposed to transuranic species in conditions representative of those found in a spent nuclear fuel reprocessing plant. Stainless steel was prepared to different surface finishes and exposed to nitric acid of varying concentrations containing 237Np, 239Pu or 243Am for one month at 50 °C. Contamination by these transuranics has been observed on all surfaces exposed to the solution through the use of autoradiography. This technique showed that samples held in 4 M HNO3 bind 2-3 times as much radionuclide as those held in 10.5 M HNO3. It was also found that the polished steel surfaces generally took up more transuranic contamination than the etched and "as received" steel finishes. The extent of corrosion on the steel surfaces was found, by scanning electron microscopy, to be greater in solutions containing Np and Pu in comparison to that observed from contact with Am containing solutions, indicating that redox activity of transuranics can influence the mechanism of stainless steel corrosion.

Cell surface localization of the 78 kD glucose regulated protein (GRP 78) induced by thapsigargin.

PubMed

Delpino, A; Piselli, P; Vismara, D; Vendetti, S; Colizzi, V

1998-01-01

In the present study it was found that the synthesis of the 78 kD glucose-regulated protein (GRP 78 or BIP) is vigorously induced in human rabdomiosarcoma cells (TE 671/RD) following both short-term (1 h) and prolonged (18 h) exposure to 100 nM thapsigargin (Tg). Flow cytometric analysis with a specific anti-GRP 78 polyclonal antibody showed that Tg-treated cells express the GRP 78 on the plasma membrane. Cell surface localization of the Tg-induced GRP 78 was confirmed by biotinylation of membrane-exposed proteins and subsequent isolation of the biotin-labelled proteins by streptavidin/agarose affinity chromatography. It was found that a fraction of the Tg-induced GRP 78 is present among the biotin-labelled, surface-exposed, proteins. Conversely, the GRP 78 immunoprecipitated from unfractionated lysates of Tg-treated and biotin-reacted cells was found to be biotinylated. This is the first report demonstrating surface expression of GRP 78 in cells exposed to a specific GRP 78-inducing stimulus.

First-principles study of low Miller index Ni3S2 surfaces in hydrotreating conditions.

PubMed

Aray, Yosslen; Vega, David; Rodriguez, Jesus; Vidal, Alba B; Grillo, Maria Elena; Coll, Santiago

2009-03-12

Density functional theory (DFT) calculations combined with surface thermodynamic arguments and the Gibbs-Curie-Wulff equilibrium morphology formalism have been employed to explore the effect of the reaction conditions, temperature (T), and gas-phase partial pressures (PH2 and PH2S) on the stability of nickel sulfide (Ni3S2) surfaces. Furthermore, the strength and nature of chemical bonds for selected Ni3S2 surface cuts were investigated with the quantum theory of atoms in molecules methodology. A particular analysis of the electrostatic potential within this theoretical framework is performed to study the potential activity of nickel sulfide nanoparticles as hydrodesulfurization (HDS) catalysts. The calculated thermodynamic surface stabilities and the resulting equilibrium morphology model suggest that unsupported Ni3S2 nanoparticles mainly expose (111) and (111) type surface faces in HDS conditions. Analysis of the electrostatic potential mapped onto a selected electron density isocontour (0.001 au) on those expose surface reveals a poor potential reactivity toward electron-donating reagents (i.e., low Lewis acidity). Consequently, a very low attraction between coordinatively unsaturated active sites (Lewis sites) exposed at the catalytic particles and the S atoms coming from reagent polluting molecules does inactive these kinds of particles for HDS.

'De-watering' capabilities of surfactants in human amniotic fluid.

PubMed Central

Hills, B A

1984-01-01

The phospholipid extracts from each of eleven samples of human amniotic fluid obtained from eleven full-term births were deposited as orientated monolayers adsorbed to glass. The surfaces were found to be rendered hydrophobic with maximum contact angles averaging 54.5 degrees while, upon withdrawing fluid, the edge of the saline pool receded to expose dry surface with minimum contact angles averaging 15.4 degrees. The extracts were found to be surface-active at the liquid-air interface and there was some indication that direct adsorption to solid surfaces was facilitated by calcium ions. It was found that, in all extracts, a continuous layer of saline adjacent to the adsorbed surface would break up spontaneously to expose dry surface when the thickness was reduced to an average of 764 micron, corresponding to several alveolar diameters. This phenomenon is discussed as a possible means of establishing dry patches on the alveolar membrane, especially in the new-born after the fetal alveolar wall has been exposed to the same surfactants in much the same physical form as found in amniotic fluid. Surfactant adsorbed directly to the tissue subphase is suggested as a physical basis for the discontinuity of the aqueous hypophase seen in many electron micrographs of the adult alveolus. This 'de-watering' of the alveolar surface could facilitate gas transfer. PMID:6546947

Biological and Health Effects of Exposure to Kerosene-Based Jet Fuels and Performance Additives

DTIC Science & Technology

2003-01-01

cancer , or other serious organic disease in fuel-exposed workers, large numbers of self-reported health complaints in this cohort appear to justify...is little epidemiological evidence for fuel-induced death, cancer , or other serious organic disease in fuel-exposed workers, large numbers of self...kidneys of some BaP-exposed males. Exposure to respirable PAHs is thought to represent a significant human cancer risk (Holland et al., 1981; U.S

Differential protein folding and chemical changes in lung tissues exposed to asbestos or particulates

PubMed Central

Pascolo, Lorella; Borelli, Violetta; Canzonieri, Vincenzo; Gianoncelli, Alessandra; Birarda, Giovanni; Bedolla, Diana E.; Salomé, Murielle; Vaccari, Lisa; Calligaro, Carla; Cotte, Marine; Hesse, Bernhard; Luisi, Fernando; Zabucchi, Giuliano; Melato, Mauro; Rizzardi, Clara

2015-01-01

Environmental and occupational inhalants may induce a large number of pulmonary diseases, with asbestos exposure being the most risky. The mechanisms are clearly related to chemical composition and physical and surface properties of materials. A combination of X-ray fluorescence (μXRF) and Fourier Transform InfraRed (μFTIR) microscopy was used to chemically characterize and compare asbestos bodies versus environmental particulates (anthracosis) in lung tissues from asbestos exposed and control patients. μXRF analyses revealed heterogeneously aggregated particles in the anthracotic structures, containing mainly Si, K, Al and Fe. Both asbestos and particulates alter lung iron homeostasis, with a more marked effect in asbestos exposure. μFTIR analyses revealed abundant proteins on asbestos bodies but not on anthracotic particles. Most importantly, the analyses demonstrated that the asbestos coating proteins contain high levels of β-sheet structures. The occurrence of conformational changes in the proteic component of the asbestos coating provides new insights into long-term asbestos effects. PMID:26159651

Panoramic Measurement and Analysis of Strain Distribution in the Human ACL Using a Photoelastic Coating Method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hirokawa, Shunji; Yamamoto, Kouji; Kawada, Takashi

Large and highly variable deformations of the ACL cannot be adequately quantified by one-dimensional and/or localized measurements. Since the complex anatomy of the ACL makes uniform loading of all fiber bundles almost impossible, strains on specific portions being tested are considerably altered during knee movement. To observe the ACL's entire surface, we propose a photoelastic coating method. A simulator jig was used to allow a natural motion of the knee whose medial and lateral femoral bone parts were removed in order to expose the ACL for observation. The simulator jig with the knee was mounted on a universal stand which allows tilt and swivel rotations, so that the exposed ACL might be viewed from any direction. Measurements were performed on the strain distributions over the ACL at various knee angles. The panoramic images of the photoelastic fringe patterns yielded significant results. Special attention was paid for insight into the relation between strain distribution and the directions of fiber run.

Wind Carved Rock

NASA Image and Video Library

2016-10-19

The distinctively fluted surface and elongated hills in this image in Medusae Fossae are caused by wind erosion of a soft fine-grained rock. Called yardangs, these features are aligned with the prevailing wind direction. This wind direction would have dominated for a very long time to carve these large-scale features into the exposed rock we see today. Yardangs not only reveal the strength and direction of historic winds, but also reveal something of the host rock itself. Close inspection by HiRISE shows an absence of boulders or rubble, especially along steep yardang cliffs and buttresses. The absence of rubble and the scale of the yardangs tells us that the host rock consists only of weakly cemented fine granules in tens of meters or more thick deposits. Such deposits could have come from extended settling of volcanic ash, atmospheric dust, or accumulations of wind deposited fine sands. After a time these deposits became cemented and cohesive, illustrated by the high standing relief and exposed cliffs. http://photojournal.jpl.nasa.gov/catalog/PIA21111

The survivability of large space-borne reflectors under atomic oxygen and micrometeoroid impact

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gulino, D. A.

1987-01-01

Solar dynamic power system mirrors for use on space station and other spacecraft flown in low Earth orbit (LEO) are exposed to the harshness of the LEO environment. Both atomic oxygen and micrometeoroids/space debris can degrade the performance of such mirrors. Protective coatings will be required to protect oxidizable reflecting media, such as silver and aluminum, from atomic oxygen attack. Several protective coating materials have been identified as good candidates for use in this application. The durability of these coating/mirror systems after pinhole defects have been inflicted during their fabrication and deployment or through micrometeoroid/space debris impact once on-orbit is of concern. Studies of the effect of an oxygen plasma environment on protected mirror surfaces with intentionally induced pinhole defects have been conducted at NASA Lewis and are reviewed. It has been found that oxidation of the reflective layer and/or the substrate in areas adjacent to a pinhole defect, but not directly exposed by the pinhole, can occur.

Defensins and Other Antimicrobial Peptides at the Ocular Surface

PubMed Central

McDermott, Alison M.

2006-01-01

Although constantly exposed to the environment and “foreign bodies” such as contact lenses and unwashed fingertips, the ocular surface succumbs to infection relatively infrequently. This is, in large part, due to a very active and robust innate immune response mounted at the ocular surface. Studies over the past 20 years have revealed that small peptides with antimicrobial activity are a major component of the human innate immune response system. The ocular surface is no exception, with peptides of the defensin and cathelicidin families being detected in the tear film and secreted by corneal and conjunctival epithelial cells. There is also much evidence to suggest that the role of some antimicrobial peptides is not restricted to direct killing of pathogens, but, rather, that they function in various aspects of the immune response, including recruitment of immune cells, and through actions on dendritic cells provide a link to adaptive immunity. A role in wound healing is also supported. In this article, the properties, mechanisms of actions and functional roles of antimicrobial peptides are reviewed, with particular emphasis on the potential multifunctional roles of defensins and LL-37 (the only known human cathelicidin) at the ocular surface. PMID:17216098

The Interface Structure of High-Temperature Oxidation-Resistant Aluminum-Based Coatings on Titanium Billet Surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Zhefeng; Rong, Ju; Yu, Xiaohua; Kun, Meng; Zhan, Zhaolin; Wang, Xiao; Zhang, Yannan

2017-10-01

A new type of high-temperature oxidation-resistant aluminum-based coating, on a titanium billet surface, was fabricated by the cold spray method, at a high temperature of 1050°C, for 8 h, under atmospheric pressure. The microstructure of the exposed surface was analyzed via optical microscopy, the microstructure of the coating and elemental diffusion was analyzed via field emission scanning electron microscopy, and the interfacial phases were identified via x-ray diffraction. The Ti-Al binary phase diagram and Gibbs free energy of the stable phase were calculated by Thermo-calc. The results revealed that good oxidation resistant 50-μm-thick coatings were successfully obtained after 8 h at 1050°C. Two layers were obtained after the coating process: an Al2O3 oxidation layer and a TiAl3 transition layer on the Ti-based substrate. The large and brittle Al2O3 grains on the surface, which can be easily spalled off from the surface after thermal processing, protected the substrate against oxidation during processing. In addition, the thermodynamic calculation results were in good agreement with the experimental data.

Atomic Scale Analysis of the Enhanced Electro- and Photo-Catalytic Activity in High-Index Faceted Porous NiO Nanowires

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shen, Meng; Han, Ali; Wang, Xijun; Ro, Yun Goo; Kargar, Alireza; Lin, Yue; Guo, Hua; Du, Pingwu; Jiang, Jun; Zhang, Jingyu; Dayeh, Shadi A.; Xiang, Bin

2015-02-01

Catalysts play a significant role in clean renewable hydrogen fuel generation through water splitting reaction as the surface of most semiconductors proper for water splitting has poor performance for hydrogen gas evolution. The catalytic performance strongly depends on the atomic arrangement at the surface, which necessitates the correlation of the surface structure to the catalytic activity in well-controlled catalyst surfaces. Herein, we report a novel catalytic performance of simple-synthesized porous NiO nanowires (NWs) as catalyst/co-catalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). The correlation of catalytic activity and atomic/surface structure is investigated by detailed high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) exhibiting a strong dependence of NiO NW photo- and electrocatalytic HER performance on the density of exposed high-index-facet (HIF) atoms, which corroborates with theoretical calculations. Significantly, the optimized porous NiO NWs offer long-term electrocatalytic stability of over one day and 45 times higher photocatalytic hydrogen production compared to commercial NiO nanoparticles. Our results open new perspectives in the search for the development of structurally stable and chemically active semiconductor-based catalysts for cost-effective and efficient hydrogen fuel production at large scale.

Proximity charge sensing for semiconductor detectors

DOEpatents

Luke, Paul N; Tindall, Craig S; Amman, Mark

2013-10-08

A non-contact charge sensor includes a semiconductor detector having a first surface and an opposing second surface. The detector includes a high resistivity electrode layer on the first surface and a low resistivity electrode on the high resistivity electrode layer. A portion of the low resistivity first surface electrode is deleted to expose the high resistivity electrode layer in a portion of the area. A low resistivity electrode layer is disposed on the second surface of the semiconductor detector. A voltage applied between the first surface low resistivity electrode and the second surface low resistivity electrode causes a free charge to drift toward the first or second surface according to a polarity of the free charge and the voltage. A charge sensitive preamplifier coupled to a non-contact electrode disposed at a distance from the exposed high resistivity electrode layer outputs a signal in response to movement of free charge within the detector.

Controlling Surface Termination and Facet Orientation in Cu2O Nanoparticles for High Photocatalytic Activity: A Combined Experimental and Density Functional Theory Study.

PubMed

Su, Yang; Li, Hongfei; Ma, Hanbin; Robertson, John; Nathan, Arokia

2017-03-08

Cu 2 O nanoparticles with controllable facets are of great significance for photocatalysis. In this work, the surface termination and facet orientation of Cu 2 O nanoparticles are accurately tuned by adjusting the amount of hydroxylamine hydrochloride and surfactant. It is found that Cu 2 O nanoparticles with Cu-terminated (110) or (111) surfaces show high photocatalytic activity, while other exposed facets show poor reactivity. Density functional theory simulations confirm that sodium dodecyl sulfate surfactant can lower the surface free energy of Cu-terminated surfaces, increase the density of exposed Cu atoms at the surfaces and thus benefit the photocatalytic activity. It also shows that the poor reactivity of the Cu-terminated Cu 2 O (100) surface is due to the high energy barrier of holes at the surface region.

Scanning electron microscope comparative surface evaluation of glazed-lithium disilicate ceramics under different irradiation settings of Nd:YAG and Er:YAG lasers.

PubMed

Viskic, Josko; Jokic, Drazen; Jakovljevic, Suzana; Bergman, Lana; Ortolan, Sladana Milardovic; Mestrovic, Senka; Mehulic, Ketij

2018-01-01

To evaluate the surface of glazed lithium disilicate dental ceramics after irradiation under different irradiation settings of Nd:YAG and Er:YAG lasers using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Three glazed-press lithium disilicate ceramic discs were treated with HF, Er:YAG, and Nd:YAG, respectively. The laser-setting variables tested were laser mode, repetition rate (Hz), power (W), time of exposure (seconds), and laser energy (mJ). Sixteen different variable settings were tested for each laser type, and all the samples were analyzed by SEM at 500× and 1000× magnification. Surface analysis of the HF-treated sample showed a typical surface texture with a homogenously rough pattern and exposed ceramic crystals. Er:YAG showed no effect on the surface under any irradiation setting. The surface of Nd:YAG-irradiated samples showed cracking, melting, and resolidifying of the ceramic glaze. These changes became more pronounced as the power increased. At the highest power setting (2.25 W), craters on the surface with large areas of melted or resolidified glaze surrounded by globules were visible. However, there was little to no exposure of ceramic crystals or visible regular surface roughening. Neither Er:YAG nor Nd:YAG dental lasers exhibited adequate surface modification for bonding of orthodontic brackets on glazed lithium disilicate ceramics compared with the control treated with 9.5% HF.

Alteration of Lunar Rock Surfaces through Interaction with the Space Environment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Frushour, A. M.; Noble, S. K; Christoffersen, R.; Keller, L P.

2014-01-01

Space weathering occurs on all ex-posed surfaces of lunar rocks, as well as on the surfaces of smaller grains in the lunar regolith. Space weather-ing alters these exposed surfaces primarily through the action of solar wind ions and micrometeorite impact processes. On lunar rocks specifically, the alteration products produced by space weathering form surface coatings known as patina. Patinas can have spectral reflectance properties different than the underlying rock. An understanding of patina composition and thickness is therefore important for interpreting re-motely sensed data from airless solar system bodies. The purpose of this study is to try to understand the physical and chemical properties of patina by expanding the number of patinas known and characterized in the lunar rock sample collection.

Penetration of carbon-fabric-reinforced composites by edge cracks during thermal aging

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bowles, Kenneth J.; Kamvouris, John E.

1994-01-01

Thermo-oxidative stability (TOS) test results are significantly influenced by the formation and growth or presence of interlaminar and interlaminar cracks in the cut edges of all carbon-fiber-crosslinked high-temperature polymer matrix composites(exp 1-5) (i.e., unidirectional, crossplied, angle-plied, and fabric composites). The thermo-oxidative degradation of these composites is heavily dependent on the surface area that is exposed to the harmful environment and on the surface-to-volume ratio of the structure under study. Since the growth of cracks and voids on the composite surfaces significantly increases the exposed surface areas, it is imperative that the interaction between the aging process and the formation of new surface area as the aging time progresses be understood.

Characterization of material surfaces exposed to atomic oxygen on space shuttle missions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fromhold, A. T.

1985-01-01

Material samples prepared for exposure to ambient atomic oxygen encountered during space shuttle flights in low Earth orbit were characterized by the experimental techniques of ELLIPSOMETRY, ESCA, PIXE, and RBS. The first group of samples, which were exposed during the STS-8 mission, exhibited some very interesting results. The second group of samples, which are to be exposed during the upcoming STS-17 mission, have been especially prepared to yield quantitative information on the optical changes, oxygen solution, and surface layer formation on metal films of silver, gold, nickel, chromium, aluminum, platinum, and palladium evaporated onto optically polished silicon wafers.

Solar loading thermography: Time-lapsed thermographic survey and advanced thermographic signal processing for the inspection of civil engineering and cultural heritage structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ibarra-Castanedo, Clemente; Sfarra, Stefano; Klein, Matthieu; Maldague, Xavier

2017-05-01

The experimental results from infrared thermography surveys over two buildings externally exposed walls are presented. Data acquisition was performed on a static configuration by recording direct and indirect solar loading during several days and was processed using advanced signal processing techniques in order to increase signal-to-noise ratio and signature contrast of the elements of interest. It is demonstrated that it is possible to detect the thermal signature of large internal structures as well as surface features under such thermographic scenarios. Results from a long-wave microbolometer compared favorably to those from a mid-wave cooled infrared camera for the detection of large subsurface features from unprocessed images. In both cases, however, advanced signal processing greatly improved contrast of the internal features.

Permafrost Meta-Omics and Climate Change

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

Mackelprang, Rachel; Saleska, Scott R.; Jacobsen, Carsten Suhr

2016-06-29

Permafrost (i.e., soil that has been frozen for at least 2 consecutive years) represents a habitat for microbial life at subzero temperatures (Gilichinsky et al. 2008). Approximately one quarter of the Earth’s surface is underlain by permafrost, which contains 25-50% of the total global soil carbon pool (Schuur et al. 2008, Tarnocai et al. 2009). This carbon is largely protected from microbial decomposition by reduced microbial activity in frozen conditions, but climate change is threatening to induce large-scale permafrost thaw thus exposing it to degradation. The resulting emissions of greenhouse gasses (GHGs) can produce a positive feedback loop and significantlymore » amplify the effects of global warming. Increasing temperatures at high latitudes, changes in precipitation patterns, and frequent fire events have already initiated a widespread degradation of permafrost (Schuur et al. 2015).« less

Erosional self-channelization of pyroclastic density currents - Evidence from ground-penetrating radar imaging at Mt. St. Helens, Washington (USA)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gase, A.; Brand, B. D.; Bradford, J.

2016-12-01

The causes and consequences of substrate erosion are among the least understood attributes of pyroclastic density current (PDC) dynamics. Field evidence of substrate erosion is often limited by the location and quality of exposed PDC deposits. Here we present evidence for one of the most spatially extensive cases of PDC erosion to date, found within the 18 May 1980 deposits of Mt. St. Helens, Washington (USA). An 8 m deep and 300 m wide PDC scour and fill feature, which extends into PDC deposits from earlier in the eruption, is exposed along a distal outcrop of the shallow-dipping (<15º) pumice plain. Near surface geophysical techniques allow us to investigate the nature, extent, and cause of this large scour. We used 50 MHz ground-penetrating radar to track the distal scour from outcrop toward its source. Beginning 700 m up-flow from the large scour and fill exposure, the feature progressively widens from 205 m to 280 m and deepens from 10 m to 13 m, suggesting the PDCs became more erosive along the length of the scour. We extended our transects across the pumice plain to locate additional scours and to establish the topography at the time of erosion. We found a second 420 m wide and 11 m deep scour that extends at least 500 m from its inception point. Apparent dips of the sides of both channels are asymmetrical, due to pronounced erosion on the up-slope side of the flow in cross-section. Our data show no evidence of subsurface topographic irregularities or high slope angles up-flow from either erosional feature. These features imply large PDCs from semi-sustained or fluctuating eruptions can self-channelize by erosional mechanisms. Our findings suggest that (1) concentrated PDCs are capable of producing large scours on shallow slopes with negligible surface roughness, analogous to the erosional channels of submarine turbidity currents, (2) substrate properties, including partial fluidization of fresh PDC deposits, may facilitate substrate erosion during semi-sustained eruptions, and (3) large PDCs can undergo self-channelization, whereby axial zones of high flow energy erode channels that confine subsequent flows. Erosion and self-channelization of this nature is not accounted for in models of concentrated PDCs, which may result in underestimates of run-out distance.

Exposing earth surface process model simulations to a large audience

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Overeem, I.; Kettner, A. J.; Borkowski, L.; Russell, E. L.; Peddicord, H.

2015-12-01

The Community Surface Dynamics Modeling System (CSDMS) represents a diverse group of >1300 scientists who develop and apply numerical models to better understand the Earth's surface. CSDMS has a mandate to make the public more aware of model capabilities and therefore started sharing state-of-the-art surface process modeling results with large audiences. One platform to reach audiences outside the science community is through museum displays on 'Science on a Sphere' (SOS). Developed by NOAA, SOS is a giant globe, linked with computers and multiple projectors and can display data and animations on a sphere. CSDMS has developed and contributed model simulation datasets for the SOS system since 2014, including hydrological processes, coastal processes, and human interactions with the environment. Model simulations of a hydrological and sediment transport model (WBM-SED) illustrate global river discharge patterns. WAVEWATCH III simulations have been specifically processed to show the impacts of hurricanes on ocean waves, with focus on hurricane Katrina and super storm Sandy. A large world dataset of dams built over the last two centuries gives an impression of the profound influence of humans on water management. Given the exposure of SOS, CSDMS aims to contribute at least 2 model datasets a year, and will soon provide displays of global river sediment fluxes and changes of the sea ice free season along the Arctic coast. Over 100 facilities worldwide show these numerical model displays to an estimated 33 million people every year. Datasets storyboards, and teacher follow-up materials associated with the simulations, are developed to address common core science K-12 standards. CSDMS dataset documentation aims to make people aware of the fact that they look at numerical model results, that underlying models have inherent assumptions and simplifications, and that limitations are known. CSDMS contributions aim to familiarize large audiences with the use of numerical modeling as a tool to create understanding of environmental processes.

Localization of (photo)respiration and CO2 re-assimilation in tomato leaves investigated with a reaction-diffusion model

PubMed Central

Berghuijs, Herman N. C.; Yin, Xinyou; Ho, Q. Tri; Verboven, Pieter; Nicolaï, Bart M.

2017-01-01

The rate of photosynthesis depends on the CO2 partial pressure near Rubisco, Cc, which is commonly calculated by models using the overall mesophyll resistance. Such models do not explain the difference between the CO2 level in the intercellular air space and Cc mechanistically. This problem can be overcome by reaction-diffusion models for CO2 transport, production and fixation in leaves. However, most reaction-diffusion models are complex and unattractive for procedures that require a large number of runs, like parameter optimisation. This study provides a simpler reaction-diffusion model. It is parameterized by both leaf physiological and leaf anatomical data. The anatomical data consisted of the thickness of the cell wall, cytosol and stroma, and the area ratios of mesophyll exposed to the intercellular air space to leaf surfaces and exposed chloroplast to exposed mesophyll surfaces. The model was used directly to estimate photosynthetic parameters from a subset of the measured light and CO2 response curves; the remaining data were used for validation. The model predicted light and CO2 response curves reasonably well for 15 days old tomato (cv. Admiro) leaves, if (photo)respiratory CO2 release was assumed to take place in the inner cytosol or in the gaps between the chloroplasts. The model was also used to calculate the fraction of CO2 produced by (photo)respiration that is re-assimilated in the stroma, and this fraction ranged from 56 to 76%. In future research, the model should be further validated to better understand how the re-assimilation of (photo)respired CO2 is affected by environmental conditions and physiological parameters. PMID:28880924

Localization of (photo)respiration and CO2 re-assimilation in tomato leaves investigated with a reaction-diffusion model.

PubMed

Berghuijs, Herman N C; Yin, Xinyou; Ho, Q Tri; Retta, Moges A; Verboven, Pieter; Nicolaï, Bart M; Struik, Paul C

2017-01-01

The rate of photosynthesis depends on the CO2 partial pressure near Rubisco, Cc, which is commonly calculated by models using the overall mesophyll resistance. Such models do not explain the difference between the CO2 level in the intercellular air space and Cc mechanistically. This problem can be overcome by reaction-diffusion models for CO2 transport, production and fixation in leaves. However, most reaction-diffusion models are complex and unattractive for procedures that require a large number of runs, like parameter optimisation. This study provides a simpler reaction-diffusion model. It is parameterized by both leaf physiological and leaf anatomical data. The anatomical data consisted of the thickness of the cell wall, cytosol and stroma, and the area ratios of mesophyll exposed to the intercellular air space to leaf surfaces and exposed chloroplast to exposed mesophyll surfaces. The model was used directly to estimate photosynthetic parameters from a subset of the measured light and CO2 response curves; the remaining data were used for validation. The model predicted light and CO2 response curves reasonably well for 15 days old tomato (cv. Admiro) leaves, if (photo)respiratory CO2 release was assumed to take place in the inner cytosol or in the gaps between the chloroplasts. The model was also used to calculate the fraction of CO2 produced by (photo)respiration that is re-assimilated in the stroma, and this fraction ranged from 56 to 76%. In future research, the model should be further validated to better understand how the re-assimilation of (photo)respired CO2 is affected by environmental conditions and physiological parameters.

Three-dimensional study of grain boundary engineering effects on intergranular stress corrosion cracking of 316 stainless steel in high temperature water

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Tingguang; Xia, Shuang; Bai, Qin; Zhou, Bangxin; Zhang, Lefu; Lu, Yonghao; Shoji, Tetsuo

2018-01-01

The intergranular cracks and grain boundary (GB) network of a GB-engineered 316 stainless steel after stress corrosion cracking (SCC) test in high temperature high pressure water of reactor environment were investigated by two-dimensional and three-dimensional (3D) characterization in order to expose the mechanism that GB-engineering mitigates intergranular SCC. The 3D microstructure shown that the essential characteristic of the GB-engineered microstructure is formation of many large twin-boundaries as a result of multiple-twinning, which results in the formation of large grain-clusters. The large grain-clusters played a key role to the improvement of intergranular SCC resistance by GB-engineering. The main intergranular cracks propagated in a zigzag along the outer boundaries of these large grain-clusters because all inner boundaries of the grain-clusters were twin-boundaries (∑3) or twin-related boundaries (∑3n) which had much lower susceptibility to SCC than random boundaries. These large grain-clusters had tree-ring-shaped topology structure and very complex morphology. They got tangled so that difficult to be separated during SCC, resulting in some large crack-bridges retained in the crack surface.

Towards a Model of Reactive-Cracking: the Role of Reactions, Elasticity and Surface Energy Driven Flow in Poro-elastic Media

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Evans, O.; Spiegelman, M. W.; Wilson, C. R.; Kelemen, P. B.

2016-12-01

Many critical processes can be described by reactive fluid flow in brittle media, including hydration/alteration of oceanic plates near spreading ridges, chemical weathering, and dehydration/decarbonation of subducting plates. Such hydration reactions can produce volume changes that may induce stresses large enough to drive fracture in the rock, in turn exposing new reactive surface and modifying the permeability. A better understanding of this potentially rich feedback could also be critical in the design of engineered systems for geologic carbon sequestration. To aid understanding of these processes we have developed a macroscopic continuum description of reactive fluid flow in an elastically deformable porous media. We explore the behaviour of this model by considering a simplified hydration reaction (e.g. olivine + H20 -> serpentine + brucite). In a closed system, these hydration reactions will continue to consume available fluids until the permeability reaches zero, leaving behind it a highly stressed residuum. Our model demonstrates this limiting behaviour, and that the elastic stresses generated are large enough to cause failure/fracture of the host rock. Whilst it is understood that `reactive fracture' is an important mechanism for the continued evolution of this process, it is also proposed that imbibition/surface energy driven flow may play a role. Through a simplified set of computational experiments, we investigate the relative roles of elasticity and surface energy in both a non-reactive purely poro-elastic framework, and then in the presence of reaction. We demonstrate that surface energy can drive rapid diffusion of porosity, thus allowing the reaction to propagate over larger areas. As we expect both surface energy and fracture/failure to be of importance in these processes, we plan to integrate the current model into one that allows for fracture once critical stresses are exceeded.

Reservoir characterization of Mesaverde (Campanian) bedload fluvial meanderbelt sandstones, northwestern Colorado

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

Jones, J.R. Jr.

1984-04-01

Reservoir characterization of Mesaverde meanderbelt sandstones is used to determined directional continuity of permeable zones. A 500-m (1600 ft) wide fluvial meanderbelt in the Mesaverde Group is exposed as laterally continuous 3-10-m (10-33-ft) high sandstone cliffs north of Rangely, Colorado. Forty-eight detailed measured sections through 3 point bar complexes oriented at right angles to the long axis of deposition and 1 complex oriented parallel to deposition were prepared. Sections were tied together by detailed sketches delineating and tracing major bounding surfaces such as scours and clay drapes. These complexes contain 3 to 8 multilateral sandstone packages separated by 5-20 cmmore » (2-8 in.) interbedded siltstone and shale beds. Component facies are point bars, crevasse splays, chute bars, and floodplain/overbank deposits. Two types of lateral accretion surfaces are recognized in the point bar facies. Gently dipping lateral accretions containing fining-upward sandstone packages. Large scale trough cross-bedding at the base grades upward into ripples and plane beds. Steeply dipping lateral accretion surfaces enclose beds characterized by climbing ripple cross laminations. Bounding surfaces draped by shale lags can seal vertically stacked point bars from reservoir communication. Scoured boundaries allow communication in some stacked point bars. Crevasse splays showing climbing ripples form tongues of very fine-grained sandstone which flank point bars. Chute channels commonly cut upper point bar surfaces at their downstream end. Chute facies are upward-fining with small scale troughs and common dewatering structures. Siltstones and shales underlie the point bar complexes and completely encase the meanderbelt system. Bounding surfaces at the base of the complexes are erosional and contain large shale rip-up clasts.« less

Projected global ground-level ozone impacts on vegetation under different emission and climate scenarios

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sicard, Pierre; Anav, Alessandro; De Marco, Alessandra; Paoletti, Elena

2017-10-01

The impact of ground-level ozone (O3) on vegetation is largely under-investigated at the global scale despite large areas worldwide that are exposed to high surface O3 levels. To explore future potential impacts of O3 on vegetation, we compared historical and projected surface O3 concentrations simulated by six global atmospheric chemistry transport models on the basis of three representative concentration pathways emission scenarios (i.e. RCP2.6, 4.5, 8.5). To assess changes in the potential surface O3 threat to vegetation at the global scale, we used the AOT40 metric. Results point out a significant exceedance of AOT40 in comparison with the recommendations of UNECE for the protection of vegetation. In fact, many areas of the Northern Hemisphere show that AOT40-based critical levels will be exceeded by a factor of at least 10 under RCP8.5. Changes in surface O3 by 2100 worldwide range from about +4-5 ppb in the RCP8.5 scenario to reductions of about 2-10 ppb in the most optimistic scenario, RCP2.6. The risk of O3 injury for vegetation, through the potential O3 impact on photosynthetic assimilation, decreased by 61 and 47 % under RCP2.6 and RCP4.5, respectively, and increased by 70 % under RCP8.5. Key biodiversity areas in southern and northern Asia, central Africa and North America were identified as being at risk from high O3 concentrations.

Dust Dynamics Near Planetary Surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Colwell, Joshua; Hughes, Anna; Grund, Chris

Observations of a lunar "horizon glow" by several Surveyor spacecraft in the 1960s opened the study of the dynamics of charged dust particles near planetary surfaces. The surfaces of the Moon and other airless planetary bodies in the solar system (asteroids, and other moons) are directly exposed to the solar wind and ionizing solar ultraviolet radiation, resulting in a time-dependent electric surface potential. Because these same objects are also exposed to bombardment by micrometeoroids, the surfaces are usually characterized by a power-law size distribution of dust that extends to sub-micron-sized particles. Individual particles can acquire a charge different from their surroundings leading to electrostatic levitation. Once levitated, particles may simply return to the surface on nearly ballistic trajectories, escape entirely from the moon or asteroid if the initial velocity is large, or in some cases be stably levitated for extended periods of time. All three outcomes have observable consequences. Furthermore, the behavior of charged dust near the surface has practical implications for planned future manned and unmanned activities on the lunar surface. Charged dust particles also act as sensitive probes of the near-surface plasma environment. Recent numerical modeling of dust levitation and transport show that charged micron-sized dust is likely to accumulate in topographic lows such as craters, providing a mechanism for the creation of dust "ponds" observed on the asteroid 433 Eros. Such deposition can occur when particles are supported by the photoelectron sheath above the dayside and drift over shadowed regions of craters where the surface potential is much smaller. Earlier studies of the lunar horizon glow are consistent with those particles being on simple ballistic trajectories following electrostatic launching from the surface. Smaller particles may be accelerated from the lunar surface to high altitudes consistent with observations of high altitude streams observed by Apollo astronauts and potentially also by the Clementine spacecraft. In addition to the Surveyor images of lunar horizon glow and the high altitude streamer measurements, the Apollo 17 Lunar Ejecta and Meteorite surface package detected signals consistent with the impact of relatively slow-moving dust particles that may have been charged dust electrostatically levitated from the surface. There is renewed interest in this near-surface dust environment with plans to return robotic landers and astronauts to the lunar surface. No Apollo-era instruments were specifically designed to detect or measure dust levitated off the lunar surface. One new experiment under study is the Autonomous Lunar Dust Observer (ALDO). ALDO is a high-sensitivity scanning lidar (laser radar) that autonomously maps and records its 3-D dust environment. Flexibility of programmable scan pattern enables ALDO to characterize the dust context in and around experiment sites. Repeated shallow angle scans in a vertical plane enable high vertical resolution studies of dust levitation near the ground. Single elevation angle sector or full azimuth scans enable large-area statistical surveys of the frequency and size of ejecta plumes from micrometeoroid impacts, and vertical or fixed-angle stares enable very high sensitivity dust profiles to extended ranges. It is estimated that backscatter from dust concentrations as low as 1/cm3 can be measured. The concept is equally applicable to surface and atmospheric studies of other airless bodies.

Articles which include chevron film cooling holes, and related processes

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

Bunker, Ronald Scott; Lacy, Benjamin Paul

An article is described, including an inner surface which can be exposed to a first fluid; an inlet; and an outer surface spaced from the inner surface, which can be exposed to a hotter second fluid. The article further includes at least one row or other pattern of passage holes. Each passage hole includes an inlet bore extending through the substrate from the inlet at the inner surface to a passage hole-exit proximate to the outer surface, with the inlet bore terminating in a chevron outlet adjacent the hole-exit. The chevron outlet includes a pair of wing troughs having amore » common surface region between them. The common surface region includes a valley which is adjacent the hole-exit; and a plateau adjacent the valley. The article can be an airfoil. Related methods for preparing the passage holes are also described.« less

Surface-Enhanced Separation of Water from Hydrocarbons: Potential Dewatering Membranes for the Catalytic Fast Pyrolysis of Pine Biomass

DOE PAGES

Engtrakul, Dr. Chaiwat; Hu, Michael Z.; Bischoff, Brian L; ...

2016-01-01

The impact of surface-selective coatings on water permeation through a membrane when exposed to catalytic fast pyrolysis (CFP) vapor products was studied by tailoring the surface properties of the membrane coating from superhydrophilic to superhydrophobic. Our approach utilized high-performance architectured surface-selective (HiPAS) membranes that were inserted after a CFP reactor. At this insertion point, the inner wall surface of a tubular membrane was exposed to a mixture of water and upgraded product vapors, including light gases and deoxygenated hydrocarbons. Under proper membrane operating conditions, a high selectivity for water over 1-ring upgraded biomass pyrolysis hydrocarbons was observed due to amore » surface-enhanced capillary condensation process. Owing to this surface-enhanced effect, HiPAS membranes have the potential to enable high flux separations suggesting that water can be selectively removed from the CFP product vapors.« less

Surface-Enhanced Separation of Water from Hydrocarbons: Potential Dewatering Membranes for the Catalytic Fast Pyrolysis of Pine Biomass

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

Engtrakul, Chaiwat; Hu, Michael Z.; Bischoff, Brian L.

2016-10-20

The impact of surface-selective coatings on water permeation through a membrane when exposed to catalytic fast pyrolysis (CFP) vapor products was studied by tailoring the surface properties of the membrane coating from superhydrophilic to superhydrophobic. Our approach used high-performance architectured surface-selective (HiPAS) membranes that were inserted after a CFP reactor. At this insertion point, the inner wall surface of a tubular membrane was exposed to a mixture of water and upgraded product vapors, including light gases and deoxygenated hydrocarbons. Under proper membrane operating conditions, a high selectivity for water over one-ring upgraded biomass pyrolysis hydrocarbons was observed as a resultmore » of a surface-enhanced capillary condensation process. Owing to this surface-enhanced effect, HiPAS membranes have the potential to enable high flux separations, suggesting that water can be selectively removed from the CFP product vapors.« less

Process of producing a ceramic matrix composite article and article formed thereby

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

Corman, Gregory Scot; McGuigan, Henry Charles; Brun, Milivoj Konstantin

A CMC article and process for producing the article to have a layer on its surface that protects a reinforcement material within the article from damage. The method entails providing a body containing a ceramic reinforcement material in a matrix material that contains a precursor of a ceramic matrix material. A fraction of the reinforcement material is present and possibly exposed at a surface of the body. The body surface is then provided with a surface layer formed of a slurry containing a particulate material but lacking the reinforcement material of the body. The body and surface layer are heatedmore » to form the article by converting the precursor within the body to form the ceramic matrix material in which the reinforcement material is contained, and by converting the surface layer to form the protective layer that covers any fraction of the reinforcement material exposed at the body surface.« less

Process of producing a ceramic matrix composite article and article formed thereby

DOEpatents

Corman, Gregory Scot [Ballston Lake, NY; McGuigan, Henry Charles [Duanesburg, NY; Brun, Milivoj Konstantin [Ballston Lake, NY

2011-10-25

A CMC article and process for producing the article to have a layer on its surface that protects a reinforcement material within the article from damage. The method entails providing a body containing a ceramic reinforcement material in a matrix material that contains a precursor of a ceramic matrix material. A fraction of the reinforcement material is present and possibly exposed at a surface of the body. The body surface is then provided with a surface layer formed of a slurry containing a particulate material but lacking the reinforcement material of the body. The body and surface layer are heated to form the article by converting the precursor within the body to form the ceramic matrix material in which the reinforcement material is contained, and by converting the surface layer to form the protective layer that covers any fraction of the reinforcement material exposed at the body surface.

Influence of Grid Reinforcement Placed In Masonry Bed Joints on Its Flexural Strength

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Piekarczyk, Adam

2017-10-01

The paper presents the test results of the flexural strength of masonry when plane of failure is perpendicular to the bed joints. Comparison tests of unreinforced specimens and specimens reinforced with steel wire, glass and basalt fibre grids applied in masonry bed joints showed the higher flexural strength and crack resistance of masonry reinforced in this manner and so loaded. Reinforced masonry exposed plastic character after cracking allow for large horizontal displacements and transfer the considerable loads perpendicular to their surface. The strengthening of masonry was observed in most tests of reinforced specimens leading to occurrence of the maximum load in after cracking phase.

Nitrogen-doped carbon nanofibers derived from polypyrrole coated bacterial cellulose as high-performance electrode materials for supercapacitors and Li-ion batteries

DOE PAGES

Lei, Wen; Han, Lili; Xuan, Cuijuan; ...

2016-05-24

Here, nitrogen-doped carbon nanofiber (NDCN) was synthesized via carbonization of polypyrrole (PPy) coated bacterial cellulose (BC) composites, where BC serves as templates as well as precursor, and PPy serves as the nitrogen source. The synthesized NDCN was employed as electrode for both supercapacitors and Li-ion batteries. The large surface area exposed to electrolyte resulting from the 3D carbon networks leads to sufficient electrode/electrolyte interface and creates shorter transport paths of electrolyte ions and Li + ion. Besides, the three types of N dopants in NDCN improve the electronic conductivity, as well as superior electrochemical performance.

Auger electron intensity variations in oxygen-exposed large grain polycrystalline silver

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, W. S.; Outlaw, R. A.; Hoflund, G. B.; Davidson, M. R.

1989-01-01

Auger electron spectroscopic studies of the grains in oxygen-charged polycrystal-line silver show significant intensity variations as a function of crystallographic orientation. These intensity variations were observed by studies of the Auger images and line scans of the different grains (randomly selected) for each silver transition energy. The results can be attributed to the diffraction of the ejected Auger electrons and interpreted by corresponding changes in the electron mean-free path for inelastic scattering and by oxygen atom accumulation in the subsurface. The subsurface (second layer) octahedral sites increased in size because of surface relaxation and serve as a stable reservoir for the dissolved oxygen.

Space Shuttle Projects

NASA Image and Video Library

1984-04-01

The Long Duration Exposure Facility (LDEF) was designed by the Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) to test the performance of spacecraft materials, components, and systems that have been exposed to the environment of micrometeoroids and space debris for an extended period of time. The LDEF proved invaluable to the development of future spacecraft and the International Space Station (ISS). The LDEF carried 57 science and technology experiments, the work of more than 200 investigators. MSFC`s experiments included: Trapped Proton Energy Determination to determine protons trapped in the Earth's magnetic field and the impact of radiation particles; Linear Energy Transfer Spectrum Measurement Experiment which measures the linear energy transfer spectrum behind different shielding configurations; Atomic oxygen-Simulated Out-gassing, an experiment that exposes thermal control surfaces to atomic oxygen to measure the damaging out-gassed products; Thermal Control Surfaces Experiment to determine the effects of the near-Earth orbital environment and the shuttle induced environment on spacecraft thermal control surfaces; Transverse Flat-Plate Heat Pipe Experiment, to evaluate the zero-gravity performance of a number of transverse flat plate heat pipe modules and their ability to transport large quantities of heat; Solar Array Materials Passive LDEF Experiment to examine the effects of space on mechanical, electrical, and optical properties of lightweight solar array materials; and the Effects of Solar Radiation on Glasses. Launched aboard the Space Shuttle Orbiter Challenger's STS-41C mission April 6, 1984, the LDEF remained in orbit for five years until January 1990 when it was retrieved by the Space Shuttle Orbiter Columbia STS-32 mission and brought back to Earth for close examination and analysis.

Evidence for two surface ruptures in the past 500 years on the San Andreas fault at Frazier Mountain, California

USGS Publications Warehouse

Lindvall, S.C.; Rockwell, T.K.; Dawson, T.E.; Helms, J.G.; Bowman, K.W.

2002-01-01

We conducted paleoseismic studies in a closed depression along the San Andreas fault on the north flank of Frazier Mountain near Frazier Park, California. We recognized two earthquake ruptures in our trench exposure and interpreted the most recent rupture, event 1, to represent the historical 1857 earthquake. We also exposed evidence of an earlier surface rupture, event 2, along an older group of faults that did not rerupture during event 1. Radiocarbon dating of the stratigraphy above and below the earlier event constrains its probable age to between A.D. 1460 and 1600. Because we documented continuous, unfaulted stratigraphy between the earlier event horizon and the youngest event horizon in the portion of the fault zone exposed, we infer event 2 to be the penultimate event. We observed no direct evidence of an 1812 earthquake in our exposures. However, we cannot preclude the presence of this event at our site due to limited age control in the upper part of the section and the possibility of other fault strands beyond the limits of our exposures. Based on overlapping age ranges, event 2 at Frazier Mountain may correlate with event B at the Bidart fan site in the Carrizo Plain to the northwest and events V and W4 at Pallett Creek and Wrightwood, respectively, to the southeast. If the events recognized at these multiple sites resulted from the same surface rupture, then it appears that the San Andreas fault has repeatedly failed in large ruptures similar in extent to 1857.

Long Duration Exposure Facility (LDEF)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1984-01-01

The Long Duration Exposure Facility (LDEF) was designed by the Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) to test the performance of spacecraft materials, components, and systems that have been exposed to the environment of micrometeoroids and space debris for an extended period of time. The LDEF proved invaluable to the development of future spacecraft and the International Space Station (ISS). The LDEF carried 57 science and technology experiments, the work of more than 200 investigators. MSFC`s experiments included: Trapped Proton Energy Determination to determine protons trapped in the Earth's magnetic field and the impact of radiation particles; Linear Energy Transfer Spectrum Measurement Experiment which measures the linear energy transfer spectrum behind different shielding configurations; Atomic oxygen-Simulated Out-gassing, an experiment that exposes thermal control surfaces to atomic oxygen to measure the damaging out-gassed products; Thermal Control Surfaces Experiment to determine the effects of the near-Earth orbital environment and the shuttle induced environment on spacecraft thermal control surfaces; Transverse Flat-Plate Heat Pipe Experiment, to evaluate the zero-gravity performance of a number of transverse flat plate heat pipe modules and their ability to transport large quantities of heat; Solar Array Materials Passive LDEF Experiment to examine the effects of space on mechanical, electrical, and optical properties of lightweight solar array materials; and the Effects of Solar Radiation on Glasses. Launched aboard the Space Shuttle Orbiter Challenger's STS-41C mission April 6, 1984, the LDEF remained in orbit for five years until January 1990 when it was retrieved by the Space Shuttle Orbiter Columbia STS-32 mission and brought back to Earth for close examination and analysis.

Interaction of some extreme-pressure type lubricating compounds with an iron surface

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Buckley, D. H.

1973-01-01

An iron surface was exposed to the extreme-pressure type lubricant benzyl chloride, dichlorophenyl phosphine, dichlorophenyl phosphine sulfide, ophenyl phosphine oxide. Iron, in the sputter-cleaned state, was exposed to these materials statically and during dynamic friction experiments. With benzyl chloride only chlorine adsorbed to the surface, and with dichlorophenyl phosphine no adsorption occurred, while the addition of sulfur to that same molecular structure resulted in the promotion of carbon and chlorine adsorption. substitution of oxygen for sulfur in the dichlorobenzyl phosphine molecule resulted in carbon, chlorine, and oxygen adsorption. With none of the phosphorus containing molecules was phosphorus detected on the surface. Sliding in an atmosphere of benzyl chloride promoted adsorption of chlorine to the iron surface. Increases in load resulted in a decrease in the surface concentration of iron chloride.

Soil texture and granulometry at the surface of Mars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dollfus, A.; Deschamps, M.; Zimbelman, J.

1992-01-01

The microtexture of the near-surface Martian soil was sensed with three diagnostic parameters: (1) the albedo A at normal incidence and phase angle 5 degrees, which relates to the composition of the top surface exposed layer; (2) the polarization parameter b characterizes the texture of the top surface layer in terms of grain size; and (3) the thermal inertia parameter I which refers to the soil compaction through the first few decimeters below the top surface sensed by polarimetry, in terms of size for the pieces making a granular regolith. Parameter b was derived from instrument VPM on board the Soviet spacecraft MARS-5, inertial I is from IRTM on the American Viking, and albedo A from both. The polarimetric scans racked strips covering two contrasted regions, the dark hued Mare Erythraeum, and the adjacent bright orange Thaumasia. Erythraem is characterized everywhere by a same type of terrain, despite the large geomorphological diversity of the surface. There is an ubiquitous coating or mantling with small dark grains, of both albedo 12.7 percent and particle size 10 to 20 microns, above a subsurface dislocation in pieces around 300 to 600 microns. A simple model is with sand-size particles completely coated with 15 micron dark grains.

Molecular Machine Powered Surface Programmatic Chain Reaction for Highly Sensitive Electrochemical Detection of Protein.

PubMed

Zhu, Jing; Gan, Haiying; Wu, Jie; Ju, Huangxian

2018-04-17

A bipedal molecular machine powered surface programmatic chain reaction was designed for electrochemical signal amplification and highly sensitive electrochemical detection of protein. The bipedal molecular machine was built through aptamer-target specific recognition for the binding of one target protein with two DNA probes, which hybridized with surface-tethered hairpin DNA 1 (H1) via proximity effect to expose the prelocked toehold domain of H1 for the hybridization of ferrocene-labeled hairpin DNA 2 (H2-Fc). The toehold-mediated strand displacement reaction brought the electrochemical signal molecule Fc close to the electrode and meanwhile released the bipedal molecular machine to traverse the sensing surface by the surface programmatic chain reaction. Eventually, a large number of duplex structures of H1-H2 with ferrocene groups facing to the electrode were formed on the sensor surface to generate an amplified electrochemical signal. Using thrombin as a model target, this method showed a linear detection range from 2 pM to 20 nM with a detection limit of 0.76 pM. The proposed detection strategy was enzyme-free and allowed highly sensitive and selective detection of a variety of protein targets by using corresponding DNA-based affinity probes, showing potential application in bioanalysis.

Controls on methane released through ebullition in peatlands affected by permafrost degradation

USGS Publications Warehouse

Klapstein, Sara J.; Turetsky, Merritt R.; McGuire, A. David; Harden, Jennifer W.; Czimczik, C.I.; Xu, Xiaomei; Chanton, J.P.; Waddington, James Michael

2014-01-01

Permafrost thaw in peat plateaus leads to the flooding of surface soils and the formation of collapse scar bogs, which have the potential to be large emitters of methane (CH4) from surface peat as well as deeper, previously frozen, permafrost carbon (C). We used a network of bubble traps, permanently installed 20 cm and 60 cm beneath the moss surface, to examine controls on ebullition from three collapse bogs in interior Alaska. Overall, ebullition was dominated by episodic events that were associated with changes in atmospheric pressure, and ebullition was mainly a surface process regulated by both seasonal ice dynamics and plant phenology. The majority (>90%) of ebullition occurred in surface peat layers, with little bubble production in deeper peat. During periods of peak plant biomass, bubbles contained acetate-derived CH4 dominated (>90%) by modern C fixed from the atmosphere following permafrost thaw. Post-senescence, the contribution of CH4 derived from thawing permafrost C was more variable and accounted for up to 22% (on average 7%), in the most recently thawed site. Thus, the formation of thermokarst features resulting from permafrost thaw in peatlands stimulates ebullition and CH4 release both by creating flooded surface conditions conducive to CH4 production and bubbling as well as by exposing thawing permafrost C to mineralization.

Multiple palaeokarst horizons in the Lower Palaeozoic of Baltoscandia challenging the dogma of a deep epicontinental sea

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lehnert, O.; Calner, M.; Ahlberg, P.; Harper, D. A.

2012-04-01

Several prominent palaeokarst surfaces have recently been detected in the Cambro-Ordovician sedimentary succession of Sweden. The oldest palaeokarst was found in autumn 2011 in Västergötland. An irregular palaeokarst cave with a breccia fill yielding large, angular Orsten clasts in a dark mud- to wackestone matrix is exposed beneath a karstic surface in the Cambrian Alum Shale Formation at Kakeled Quarry, Kinnekulle. The karstic surface occurs near the top of the Kakeled Limestone Bed that ranges from the upper Agnostus pisiformis into the Ctenopyge tumida Zone. The base of the cave is more than 1.4 m below this unconformity. A mass occurrence of Orusia lenticularis, a shallow-water brachiopod originally settling on hard substrates, in the karst pockets reflects deposition of the conglomeratic cover in extremely shallow marine environments. We interpret the widespread Orusia occurrences together with a brecciated or conglomeratic interval above an irregular surface in various Swedish locations as evidence for transgression after a major regression, regionally exposing the sea-floors of the Alum Shale Basin. A slightly younger karst surface is exposed in Tomten Quarry at Torbjörntorp, Västergötland. This resembles "Schrattenkalk" in the quarry wall but rock slabs cut vertical and parallel to bedding display a karren system, which reconstructed in 3D resembles "Napfkarren" or cockling features. Trilobites of the Ctenopyge bisulcata and C. linnarssoni zones have been recovered from the orsten bed just below the base of a 1-2 cm thick and irregular glauconitic packstone layer of the Bjørkåsholmen Formation (upper P. deltifer conodont Zone). The huge stratigraphic gap comprises the six uppermost trilobite zones of the Furongian plus most of the Tremadocian. Darriwilian conodonts with reworked older material within a limestone bed slightly above the glauconitic packstone point to yet another substantial gap in the succession. In the new Tingskullen core from northeastern Öland a karstic surface with grikes and evidence of repeated exposure occurs on the top of the upper Djupvik Formation (equivalent to the Bjørkåsholmen Formation). This palaeokarst is covered by the Töyen Formation and represents erosion and karstification during the global Ceratopyge Regressive Event (CRE). Higher up in the Ordovician of Öland, the lower Dapingian Blommiga Bladet hardground complex (Flowery Sheet) preserves karst morphologies. It can be correlated by means of the typical large borings of Gastrochaenolites oelandicus across most of Baltoscandia, including the Siljan district (new observations). An unconformity has recently been identified on top of the Skagen Formation in the Röstånga core from Scania (Skåne). This surface yield solution features possibly of subaerial origin and correlates with a conglomerate at the upper boundary of the same formation in the Borenshult core (Östergötland). Lastly, a prominent, basin-wide palaeokarst horizon in the Upper Ordovician Slandrom Limestone has been recently documented in detail. The multiple karst horizons in the Cambro-Silurian of Sweden imply subaerial exposure, and even locally soil-forming processes, during major regressions. Their preservation implies rapid burial and transgression. The common evidence for palaeokarst together with other sedimentary and biotic proxies of extremely shallow-water, challenge earlier models favouring a stable and deep basin.

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

Schaeffer, Daniel A.; Polizos, Georgios; Smith, D. Barton

Optical surfaces such as mirrors and windows that are exposed to outdoor environmental conditions are susceptible to dust buildup and water condensation. The application of transparent superhydrophobic coatings on optical surfaces can improve outdoor performance via a self-cleaning effect similar to the Lotus effect. The contact angle (CA) of water droplets on a typical hydrophobic flat surface varies from 100° to 120°. Adding roughness or microtexture to a hydrophobic surface leads to an enhancement of hydrophobicity and the CA can be increased to a value in the range of 16≥0° to 175°. This result is remarkable because such behavior cannotmore » be explained using surface chemistry alone. When surface features are on the order of 100 nm or smaller, surfaces exhibit superhydrophobic behavior and maintain their optical transparency. In this work we discuss our results on transparent superhydrophobic coatings that can be applied across large surface areas. We have used functionalized silica nanoparticles to coat various optical elements and have measured the contact angle and optical transmission between 190 to 1100 nm on these elements. The functionalized silica nanoparticles were dissolved in a solution of the solvents isopropyl alcohol and 4-chlorobenzotrifluoride (PCBTF) and a proprietary ceramic binder (Cerakote ). Finally, this solution was spin-coated onto a variety of test glass substrates, and following a curing period of about 30 minutes, these coatings exhibited superhydrophobic behavior with a static CA ≥160°.« less

Methylation and in vivo expression of the surface-exposed Leptospira interrogans outer-membrane protein OmpL32.

PubMed

Eshghi, Azad; Pinne, Marija; Haake, David A; Zuerner, Richard L; Frank, Ami; Cameron, Caroline E

2012-03-01

Recent studies have revealed that bacterial protein methylation is a widespread post-translational modification that is required for virulence in selected pathogenic bacteria. In particular, altered methylation of outer-membrane proteins has been shown to modulate the effectiveness of the host immune response. In this study, 2D gel electrophoresis combined with MALDI-TOF MS identified a Leptospira interrogans serovar Copenhageni strain Fiocruz L1-130 protein, corresponding to ORF LIC11848, which undergoes extensive and differential methylation of glutamic acid residues. Immunofluorescence microscopy implicated LIC11848 as a surface-exposed outer-membrane protein, prompting the designation OmpL32. Indirect immunofluorescence microscopy of golden Syrian hamster liver and kidney sections revealed expression of OmpL32 during colonization of these organs. Identification of methylated surface-exposed outer-membrane proteins, such as OmpL32, provides a foundation for delineating the role of this post-translational modification in leptospiral virulence.

UVolution, a photochemistry experiment in low earth orbit: investigation of the photostability of carboxylic acids exposed to mars surface UV radiation conditions.

PubMed

Stalport, Fabien; Guan, Yuan Yong; Coll, Patrice; Szopa, Cyril; Macari, Frédérique; Raulin, François; Chaput, Didier; Cottin, Hervé

2010-05-01

The detection and identification of organic molecules on Mars are of prime importance to establish the existence of a possible ancient prebiotic chemistry or even a biological activity. To date, however, no complex organic compounds have been detected on Mars. The harsh environmental conditions at the surface of Mars are commonly advocated to explain this nondetection, but few studies have been implemented to test this hypothesis. To investigate the nature, abundance, and stability of organic molecules that could survive under such environmental conditions, we exposed, in low Earth orbit, organic molecules of martian astrobiological relevance to solar UV radiation (>200 nm). The experiment, called UVolution, was flown on board the Biopan ESA module, which was situated outside a Russian Foton automated capsule and exposed to space conditions for 12 days in September 2007. The targeted organic molecules [alpha-aminoisobutyric acid (AIB), mellitic acid, phthalic acid, and trimesic acid] were exposed with, and without, an analogous martian soil. Here, we present experimental results of the impact of solar UV radiation on the targeted molecules. Our results show that none of the organic molecules studied seemed to be radiotolerant to the solar UV radiation when directly exposed to it. Moreover, the presence of a mineral matrix seemed to increase the photodestruction rate. AIB, mellitic acid, phthalic acid, and trimesic acid should not be considered as primary targets for in situ molecular analyses during future surface missions if samples are only collected from the first centimeters of the top surface layer.

Environmental Survival of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis in Different Climatic Zones of Eastern Australia

PubMed Central

Begg, Douglas J.; Dhand, Navneet K.; Watt, Bruce; Whittington, Richard J.

2014-01-01

The duration of survival of both the S and C strains of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis in feces was quantified in contrasting climatic zones of New South Wales, Australia, and detailed environmental temperature data were collected. Known concentrations of S and C strains in feces placed on soil in polystyrene boxes were exposed to the environment with or without the provision of shade (70%) at Bathurst, Armidale, Condobolin, and Broken Hill, and subsamples taken every 2 weeks were cultured for the presence of M. avium subsp. paratuberculosis. The duration of survival ranged from a minimum of 1 week to a maximum of 16 weeks, and the provision of 70% shade was the most important factor in extending the survival time. The hazard of death for exposed compared to shaded samples was 20 and 9 times higher for the S and C strains, respectively. Site did not affect the survival of the C strain, but for the S strain, the hazard of death was 2.3 times higher at the two arid zone sites (Broken Hill and Condobolin) than at the two temperate zone sites (Bathurst and Armidale). Temperature measurements revealed maximum temperatures exceeding 60°C and large daily temperature ranges at the soil surface, particularly in exposed boxes. PMID:24463974

Large-scale lateral nanowire arrays nanogenerators

DOEpatents

Wang, Zhong L; Xu, Chen; Qin, Yong; Zhu, Guang; Yang, Rusen; Hu, Youfan; Zhang, Yan

2014-01-07

In a method of making a generating device, a plurality of spaced apart elongated seen members are deposited onto a surface of a flexible non-conductive substrate. An elongated conductive layer is applied to a top surface and a first side of each seed member, thereby leaving an exposed second side opposite the first side. A plurality of elongated piezoelectric nanostructures is grown laterally from the second side of each seed layer. A second conductive material is deposited onto the substrate adjacent each elongated first conductive layer so as to be soupled the distal end of each of the plurality of elongated piezoelectric nanostructures. The second conductive material is selected so as to form a Schottky barrier between the second conductive material and the distal end of each of the plurality of elongated piezoelectric nanostructures and so as to form an electrical contact with the first conductive layer.

Transient Temperature Analysis in a System of Thin Shells Combined with Convective and Radiative Cooling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prasad, Ravindra; Samria, N. K.

1989-01-01

The problem considered has applications in the transient thermal analysis and time for attaining the steady state of the cylinder wall and cylinder head of an air-cooled internal-combustion engine. Numerical calculations based on finite difference approximations are carried out to assess the thermal response in a system of thin cylindrical and spherical shells having hot gases inside with convective boundary conditions. The outside surface is exposed to cooling medium where it looses heat by natural convection and radiation. As a special case, when radius is large, the surface may be considered to be a plane wall. The cylinder cover and cylinder wall of an internal-combustion engine are considered to be a plane wall for a comparatively higher ratio of cylinder diameter to the thickness of the wall, i.e., whend/δ varies from 80 to 100. A plot of temperature-time history and heat flow rates have been obtained.

Thermal and albedo mapping of the north and south polar regions of Mars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Paige, D. A.; Keegan, K. D.

1991-01-01

The first maps of the thermal properties of the north and south polar region of Mars are presented. The maps complete the mapping of the entire planet. The maps for the north polar region were derived from Viking Infrared Thermal Mapper (IRTM) observations obtained from 10 Jun. to 30 Sep. 1978. This period corresponds to the early summer season in the north, when the north residual water ice cap was exposed, and the polar surface temperatures were near their maximum. The maps in the south were derived from observations obtained between 24 Aug. to 23 Sep. 1977. This period corresponds to the late summer season in the south, when the seasonal polar cap had retreated to close to its residual configuration, and the second global dust storm of 1977 had largely subsided. The major results concerning the following topics are summarized: (1) surface water ice; (2) polar dune material; and (3) dust deposits.

Reull Valles in Approximately Natural Color

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1995-01-01

Reull Valles, conspicuous southeast-trending fretted channel, dissects wall deposits of the large Hellas impact basin. Center of picture is at latitude 42 degrees S. longitude 258 degrees. Fretted channels are wide, flat-floored channels with steep walls, which may be runoff channels that have been modified and enlarged by mass wasting. Many nearby hills and mountains are surrounded by lobate debris aprons, which may have formed by slow creep of rock deposits aided by the presence of near-surface ice. Layering is exposed in the channel and crater walls. The color variations of the surface are very bland in this region; most of the variations seen in the enhanced-color version (PIA00153) are due to atmospheric scattering. Viking Orbiter Picture Numbers 126A08 (violet), 126A16 (green), and 126A24 (red) at 157 m/pixel resolution. Picture width is 161 km. North is 112 degrees clockwise from top.

Research on laser-induced damage resistance of fused silica optics by the fluid jet polishing method.

PubMed

Lv, Liang; Ma, Ping; Huang, Jinyong; He, Xiang; Cai, Chao; Zhu, Heng

2016-03-20

Laser-induced damage threshold (LIDT) is one important evaluation index for optical glasses applied in large laser instruments which are exposed to high light irradiation flux. As a new kind of precise polishing technology, fluid jet polishing (FJP) has been widely used in generating planar, spherical, and aspherical optics with high-accuracy surfaces. Laser damage resistances of fused silica optics by the FJP process are studied in this paper. Fused silica samples with various FJP parameters are prepared, and laser damage experiments are performed with 351 nm wavelength and a 5.5 ns pulse width laser. Experimental results demonstrate that the LIDT of the samples treated with FJP processes did not increase, compared to their original state. The surface quality of the samples is one factor for the decrease of LIDT. For ceria solution polished samples, the cerium element remaining is another factor of the lower LIDT.

Use of Synthetic Osteochondral Implants to Treat Bilateral Shoulder Osteochondritis Dissecans in a Dog.

PubMed

Danielski, Alan; Farrell, Michael

2018-06-20

 An 8-month-old American Bulldog was presented for assessment of bilateral thoracic limb lameness. Computed tomographic imaging revealed large, deep osteochondritis dissecans lesions in both humeral heads.  The osteochondritis dissecans lesions were debrided and the exposed subchondral defects were prepared to receive synthetic grafts. Circular implants consisting of a surface layer of polycarbonate urethane and a deep layer of lattice-type titanium were implanted into the osteochondral defects to reconstruct the articular surface topography. Follow-up clinical examination 1.5, 3 and 9months postoperatively revealed a lack of signs of shoulder pain and resolution of thoracic limb lameness. Nine-month follow-up radiographs showed radiographic evidence of osteointegration of both implants.  Synthetic osteochondral implantation in the caudocentral aspect of the humeral head appeared technically feasible and effective in resolving lameness caused by humeral head osteochondritis dissecans. Schattauer GmbH Stuttgart.

Binding of a neutralizing antibody to dengue virus alters the arrangement of surface glycoproteins

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

Lok, Shee-Mei; Kostyuchenko, Victor; Nybakken, Grant E.

The monoclonal antibody 1A1D-2 has been shown to strongly neutralize dengue virus serotypes 1, 2 and 3, primarily by inhibiting attachment to host cells. A crystal structure of its antigen binding fragment (Fab) complexed with domain III of the viral envelope glycoprotein, E, showed that the epitope would be partially occluded in the known structure of the mature dengue virus. Nevertheless, antibody could bind to the virus at 37 degrees C, suggesting that the virus is in dynamic motion making hidden epitopes briefly available. A cryo-electron microscope image reconstruction of the virus:Fab complex showed large changes in the organization ofmore » the E protein that exposed the epitopes on two of the three E molecules in each of the 60 icosahedral asymmetric units of the virus. The changes in the structure of the viral surface are presumably responsible for inhibiting attachment to cells.« less

Ultrathin Wall (1 nm) and Superlong Pt Nanotubes with Enhanced Oxygen Reduction Reaction Performance.

PubMed

Tao, Lu; Yu, Dan; Zhou, Junshuang; Lu, Xiong; Yang, Yunxia; Gao, Faming

2018-05-01

The synthesis of Pt nanotubes catalysts remains a substantial challenge, especially for those with both sub-nanometer wall thickness and micrometer-scale length characteristics. Combining techniques of insulin fibril template with Pd nanowire template, numerous Pt nanotubes with diameter of 5.5 nm, tube-length of several micrometers, and ultrathin wall thickness of 1 nm are assembled. These tubular catalysts with both open ends deliver electrochemical active surface area (ECSA) of 91.43 m 2 g pt -1 which results from multiple Pt atoms exposed on the inner and outer surfaces that doubled Pt atoms can participate in catalytic reactions, further with enhanced electrocatalytic performance for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). The ultrafine Pt nanotubes represent a class of hollow nanostructure with increased Pt-utilization and large ECSA, which is regarded as a type of cost-effective catalysts for ORR. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Electrochemical Reconstitution of Biomolecules for Applications as Electrocatalysts for the Bionanofuel Cell

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kim, Jae-Woo; Choi, Sang H.; Lillehei, Peter T.; King, Glen C.; Watt, Gerald D.; Chu, Sang-Hyon; Park, Yeonjoon; Thibeault, Sheila

2004-01-01

Platinum-cored ferritins were synthesized as electrocatalysts by electrochemical biomineralization of immobilized apoferritin with platinum. The platinum cored ferritin was fabricated by exposing the immobilized apoferritin to platinum ions at a reduction potential. On the platinum-cored ferritin, oxygen is reduced to water with four protons and four electrons generated from the anode. The ferritin acts as a nano-scale template, a biocompatible cage, and a separator between the nanoparticles. This results in a smaller catalyst loading of the electrodes for fuel cells or other electrochemical devices. In addition, the catalytic activity of the ferritin-stabilized platinum nanoparticles is enhanced by the large surface area and particle size phenomena. The work presented herein details the immobilization of ferritin with various surface modifications, the electrochemical biomineralization of ferritin with different inorganic cores, and the fabrication of self-assembled 2-D arrays with thiolated ferritin.

An analytical investigation of the performance of solar collectors as nighttime heat radiators in airconditioning cycles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jones, C. B.; Smetana, F. O.

1979-01-01

It was found that if the upper and lower ends of a collector were opened, large free convention currents may be set up between the collector surface and the cover glass(es) which can result in appreciable heat rejection. If the collector is so designed that both plates surfaces are exposed to convection currents when the upper and lower ends of the collector enclosure are opened, the heat rejection rate is 300 watts sq m when the plate is 13 C above ambient. This is sufficient to permit a collector array designed to provide 100 percent of the heating needs of a home to reject the accumulated daily air conditioning load during the course of a summer night. This also permits the overall energy requirements for cooling to be reduced by at least 15 percent and shift the load on the utility entirely to the nighttime hours.

Methods to introduce sub-micrometer, symmetry-breaking surface corrugation to silicon substrates to increase light trapping

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

Han, Sang Eon; Hoard, Brittany R.; Han, Sang M.

Provided is a method for fabricating a nanopatterned surface. The method includes forming a mask on a substrate, patterning the substrate to include a plurality of symmetry-breaking surface corrugations, and removing the mask. The mask includes a pattern defined by mask material portions that cover first surface portions of the substrate and a plurality of mask space portions that expose second surface portions of the substrate, wherein the plurality of mask space portions are arranged in a lattice arrangement having a row and column, and the row is not oriented parallel to a [110] direction of the substrate. The patterningmore » the substrate includes anisotropically removing portions of the substrate exposed by the plurality of spaces.« less

Plastic deformation of a magnesium oxide 001-plane surface produced by cavitation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hattori, S.; Miyoshi, K.; Buckley, D. H.; Okada, T.

1986-01-01

An investigation was conducted to examine plastic deformation of a cleaved single-crystal magnesium oxide 001-plane surface exposed to cavitation. Cavitation damage experiments were carried out in distilled water at 25 C by using a magnetostrictive oscillator in close proximity (2 mm) to the surface of the cleaved specimen. The dislocation-etch-pit patterns induced by cavitation were examined and compared with that of microhardness indentations. The results revealed that dislocation-etch-pit patterns around hardness indentations contain both screw and edge dislocations, while the etch-pit patterns on the surface exposed to cavitation contain only screw dislocations. During cavitation, deformation occurred in a thin surface layer, accompanied by work-hardening of the ceramic. The row of screw dislocations underwent a stable growth, which was analyzed crystallographically.

Effects of space environment on structural materials - A preliminary study and development of materials characterization protocols

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miglionico, C.; Stein, C.; Murr, L. E.

1991-01-01

A preliminary study of materials exposed in space in LEO for nearly six years in the NASA Long-Duration Exposure Facility is presented. It is demonstrated that it will be necessary to isolate surface debris and reaction products from materials exposed in space. Replication techniques originally designed for electron microscopy examination of surfaces can be applied to lift off and isolate such surface features. Debris and reaction products were examined through a variety of analytical techniques, including the surface morphology by SEM, and internal microstructures by STEM and TEM, EDS, and SAD. The results illustrate the role that atomic oxygen and micrometeorites play in surface alteration and reaction in LEO space environments, as well as the role of debris created from other proximate materials.

Weakly bound water structure, bond valence saturation and water dynamics at the goethite (100) surface/aqueous interface: ab initio dynamical simulations.

PubMed

Chen, Ying; Bylaska, Eric J; Weare, John H

2017-03-31

Many important geochemical and biogeochemical reactions occur in the mineral/formation water interface of the highly abundant mineral, goethite [α-Fe(OOH)]. Ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) simulations of the goethite α-FeOOH (100) surface and the structure, water bond formation and dynamics of water molecules in the mineral/aqueous interface are presented. Several exchange correlation functionals were employed (PBE96, PBE96 + Grimme, and PBE0) in the simulations of a (3 × 2) goethite surface with 65 absorbed water molecules in a 3D-periodic supercell (a = 30 Å, FeOOH slab ~12 Å thick, solvation layer ~18 Å thick). The lowest energy goethite (100) surface termination model was determined to have an exposed surface Fe 3+ that was loosely capped by a water molecule and a shared hydroxide with a neighboring surface Fe 3+ . The water molecules capping surface Fe 3+ ions were found to be loosely bound at all DFT levels with and without Grimme corrections, indicative that each surface Fe 3+ was coordinated with only five neighbors. These long bonds were supported by bond valence theory calculations, which showed that the bond valence of the surface Fe 3+ was saturated and surface has a neutral charge. The polarization of the water layer adjacent to the surface was found to be small and affected only the nearest water. Analysis by density difference plots and localized Boys orbitals identified three types of water molecules: those loosely bound to the surface Fe 3+ , those hydrogen bonded to the surface hydroxyl, and bulk water with tetrahedral coordination. Boys orbital analysis showed that the spin down lone pair orbital of the weakly absorbed water interact more strongly with the spin up Fe 3+ ion. These weakly bound surface water molecules were found to rapidly exchange with the second water layer (~0.025 exchanges/ps) using a dissociative mechanism. Water molecules adjacent to the surface were found to only weakly interact with the surface and as a result were readily able to exchange with the bulk water. To account for the large surface Fe-OH 2 distances in the DFT calculations it was proposed that the surface Fe 3+ atoms, which already have their bond valence fully satisfied with only five neighbors, are under-coordinated with respect to the bulk coordination. Graphical abstract All first principle calculations, at all practically achievable levels, for the goethite 100 aqueous interface support a long bond and weak interaction between the exposed surface Fe 3+ and water molecules capping the surface. This result is supported by bond valence theory calculations and is indicative that each surface Fe 3+ is coordinated with only 5 neighbors.

Iron cycling at corroding carbon steel surfaces.

PubMed

Lee, Jason S; McBeth, Joyce M; Ray, Richard I; Little, Brenda J; Emerson, David

2013-01-01

Surfaces of carbon steel (CS) exposed to mixed cultures of iron-oxidizing bacteria (FeOB) and dissimilatory iron-reducing bacteria (FeRB) in seawater media under aerobic conditions were rougher than surfaces of CS exposed to pure cultures of either type of microorganism. The roughened surface, demonstrated by profilometry, is an indication of loss of metal from the surface. In the presence of CS, aerobically grown FeOB produced tight, twisted helical stalks encrusted with iron oxides. When CS was exposed anaerobically in the presence of FeRB, some surface oxides were removed. However, when the same FeOB and FeRB were grown together in an aerobic medium, FeOB stalks were less encrusted with iron oxides and appeared less tightly coiled. These observations suggest that iron oxides on the stalks were reduced and solubilized by the FeRB. Roughened surfaces of CS and denuded stalks were replicated with culture combinations of different species of FeOB and FeRB under three experimental conditions. Measurements of electrochemical polarization resistance established different rates of corrosion of CS in aerobic and anaerobic media, but could not differentiate rate differences between sterile controls and inoculated exposures for a given bulk concentration of dissolved oxygen. Similarly, total iron in the electrolyte could not be used to differentiate treatments. The experiments demonstrate the potential for iron cycling (oxidation and reduction) on corroding CS in aerobic seawater media.

Iron cycling at corroding carbon steel surfaces

PubMed Central

Lee, Jason S.; McBeth, Joyce M.; Ray, Richard I.; Little, Brenda J.; Emerson, David

2013-01-01

Surfaces of carbon steel (CS) exposed to mixed cultures of iron-oxidizing bacteria (FeOB) and dissimilatory iron-reducing bacteria (FeRB) in seawater media under aerobic conditions were rougher than surfaces of CS exposed to pure cultures of either type of microorganism. The roughened surface, demonstrated by profilometry, is an indication of loss of metal from the surface. In the presence of CS, aerobically grown FeOB produced tight, twisted helical stalks encrusted with iron oxides. When CS was exposed anaerobically in the presence of FeRB, some surface oxides were removed. However, when the same FeOB and FeRB were grown together in an aerobic medium, FeOB stalks were less encrusted with iron oxides and appeared less tightly coiled. These observations suggest that iron oxides on the stalks were reduced and solubilized by the FeRB. Roughened surfaces of CS and denuded stalks were replicated with three culture combinations of different species of FeOB and FeRB under three experimental conditions. Measurements of electrochemical polarization resistance established different rates of corrosion of CS in aerobic and anaerobic media, but could not differentiate rate differences between sterile controls and inoculated exposures for a given bulk concentration of dissolved oxygen. Similarly, total iron in the electrolyte could not be used to differentiate treatments. The experiments demonstrate the potential for iron cycling (oxidation and reduction) on corroding CS in aerobic seawater media. PMID:24093730

Can Escherichia coli fly? The role of flies as transmitters of E. coli to food in an urban slum in Bangladesh.

PubMed

Lindeberg, Yrja Lisa; Egedal, Karen; Hossain, Zenat Zebin; Phelps, Matthew; Tulsiani, Suhella; Farhana, Israt; Begum, Anowara; Jensen, Peter Kjaer Mackie

2018-01-01

To investigate the transmission of faecal bacteria by flies to food under natural settings. Over a period of 2 months, paired (exposed and non-exposed) containers with cooked rice were placed on the ground in kitchen areas in an urban slum area in Dhaka, Bangladesh, and the numbers of flies landing on the exposed rice were counted. Following exposure, the surface of the rice was microbiologically and molecularly analysed for the presence of Escherichia coli and genes of diarrhoeagenic E. coli and Shigella strains. Rice was at greater risk (P < 0·001) of being contaminated with E. coli if flies landed on the rice than if no flies landed on the rice (odds ratio 5·4 (P < 0·001, 95% CI: 2·5-11·7). Mean contamination in exposed rice samples (n = 60) was 3·1 × 103 CFU/g (95% CI: 2·2 × 103-4·0 × 103). Furthermore, for approximately half of the observed fly landings, the average CFU per fly landing was >0·6 × 103 CFU. Genes of diarrhoeagenic E. coli and Shigella species were detected in 39 of 60 (65%) of exposed rice samples. Two fly species were identified: the common housefly (Musca domestica) and the oriental latrine fly (Chrysomya megacephala). Flies may transmit large quantities of E. coli to food under field settings. The findings highlight the importance of implementing control measures to minimise exposure of food to flies to ensure food safety. Fly control measures should be considered for the prevention of diarrhoeal diseases caused by E. coli. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Additives to reduce susceptibility of thermosets and thermoplastics to erosion from atomic oxygen

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Orwoll, Robert A.

1990-01-01

Polymeric materials have many attractive features such as light weight, high strength, and broad applicability in the form of films, fibers, and molded objects. In low earth orbit (LEO), these materials, when exposed on the exterior of the spacecraft, have the serious disadvantage of being susceptible to erosion by atomic oxygen (AO). AO is the most common chemical species at LEO altitudes. AO can be an extremely efficient oxidizing agent as was apparent from the extensive erosion of organic films exposed in STS missions. The mechanism for erosion involves the reaction of oxygen atoms at the surface of the substrate to form small molecular species. The susceptibility of polymeric materials varies with their chemical composition. Films with silicon atoms incorporated in the molecular structures have large coefficients of thermal expansion. This limits their utility. In an alternative approach additives were sought that mix physically and form a protective oxide layer when the film is exposed to AO. A large number of organic compounds containing silicon, germanium, or tin atoms were screened. Most were found to have very limited solubility in the polyetherimide (Ultem) films that were being protected from AO. However, one, bis(triphenyl tin) oxide, (BTO), is miscible in Ultem up to about 25 percent. Films of Ultem polyimide containing up to 25 wt percent BTO were prepared by evaporation of solvent from a solution of Ultem and BTO. The effects of AO on these films were simulated in the oxygen atmosphere of a radio frequency glow-discharge chamber. In the second part of this study, atoms were incorporated in epoxy resins. Experiments are in progress to measure the resistance of films of the cured epoxy to AO in the discharge chamber.

Expression of CD16, CD18 and CD56 in tributyltin-exposed human natural killer cells.

PubMed

Whalen, Margaret M; Ghazi, Sabah; Loganathan, Bommanna G; Hatcher, Frank

2002-02-20

Tributyltin (TBT) was produced in large quantities for use in wood preservation, marine antifouling paints, disinfection of circulating industrial cooling waters and slime control in paper mills. TBT is found in dairy products, meat and fish. We and others have shown that there are measurable levels of TBT in human blood. BTs appear to increase the risk of cancer and viral infections in exposed individuals. In previous studies, we demonstrated that the NK-cytotoxic function of lymphocytes was greatly diminished after a 1-h exposure to 300 nM TBT or a 24-h exposure to 200 nM TBT. Inhibition induced by a 1-h exposure to 300 nM TBT continues even after removal of the compound. There is also decreased ability of NK cells to bind to tumor target cells when they have been exposed to 200 nM TBT for 24 h. This loss of binding function is not seen when NK cells are exposed to 300 nM TBT for 1 h. However, NK cells exposed to 300 nM TBT for 1 h and then incubated in TBT-free media for 24, 48 or 96 h, show a significant loss of tumor-binding function by 96 h. The effects of TBT on cell surface molecules that are crucial to NK cell function is investigated. The data indicate there is a loss of expression of CD16 and CD56 on NK cells exposed to 200 nM TBT for 24 h. There is no decrease in expression of any of the markers studied when NK cells are exposed to 300 nM TBT for 1 h, consistent with the fact that a 1-h exposure has no effect on the ability of NK cells to bind to tumor targets. However, when NK cells are exposed to 300 nM TBT followed by 24, 48 or 96 h incubations in TBT-free media, there is a significant loss of CD16 and CD18 expression after 24 h and of CD16 and CD56 expression after 48 and 96 h.

The structure of plasmodesmata as revealed by plasmolysis, detergent extraction, and protease digestion

PubMed Central

1991-01-01

Plasmodesmata or intercellular bridges that connect plant cells are cylindrical channels approximately 40 nm in diameter. Running through the center of each is a dense rod, the desmotubule, that is connected to the endoplasmic reticulum of adjacent cells. Fern, Onoclea sensibilis, gametophytes were cut in half and the cut surfaces exposed to the detergent, Triton X 100, then fixed. Although the plasma membrane limiting the plasmodesma is solubilized partially or completely, the desmotubule remains intact. Alternatively, if the cut surface is exposed to papain, then fixed, the desmotubule disappears, but the plasma membrane limiting the plasmodesmata remains intact albeit swollen and irregular in profile. Gametophytes were plasmolyzed, and then fixed. As the cells retract from their cell walls they leave behind the plasmodesmata still inserted in the cell wall. They can break cleanly when the cell proper retracts or can pull away portions of the plasma membrane of the cell with them. Where the desmotubule remains intact, the plasmodesma retains its shape. These images and the results with detergents and proteases indicate that the desmotubule provides a cytoskeletal element for each plasmodesma, an element that not only stabilizes the whole structure, but also limits its size and porosity. It is likely to be composed in large part of protein. Suggestions are made as to why this structure has been selected for in evolution. PMID:1993740

Spectral observations of 19 weathered and 23 fresh NEAs and their correlations with orbital parameters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fevig, Ronald A.; Fink, Uwe

2007-05-01

Results of our visible to near-infrared spectrophotometric observations of 41 near-Earth asteroids (NEAs) are reported. These moderate-resolution spectra, along with 14 previously published spectra from our earlier survey [Hicks, M.D., Fink, U., Grundy, W.M., 1998. Icarus 133, 69-78] show a preponderance of spectra consistent with ordinary chondrites (23 NEAs with this type of spectrum, along with 19 S-types and 13 in other taxonomic groups). There exists statistically significant evidence for orbit-dependent trends in our data. While S-type NEAs from our survey reside primarily in (1) Amor orbits or (2) Aten or Apollo orbits which do not cross the asteroid main-belt, the majority of objects with spectra consistent with ordinary chondrites in our survey are in highly eccentric Apollo orbits which enter the asteroid main-belt. This trend toward fresh, relatively unweathered NEAs with ordinary chondrite type spectra in highly eccentric Apollo orbits is attributed to one or a combination of three possible causes: (1) the chaotic nature of NEA orbits can easily result in high eccentricity orbits/large aphelion distances so that they can enter the collisionally enhanced environment in the main-belt, exposing fresh surfaces, (2) they have recently been injected into such orbits after a collision in the main-belt, or (3) such objects cross the orbits of several terrestrial planets, causing tidal disruption events that expose fresh surfaces.

Atomic friction at exposed and buried graphite step edges: Experiments and simulations

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

Ye, Zhijiang; Martini, Ashlie, E-mail: amartini@ucmerced.edu

2015-06-08

The surfaces of layered materials such as graphite exhibit step edges that affect friction. Step edges can be exposed, where the step occurs at the outmost layer, or buried, where the step is underneath another layer of material. Here, we study friction at exposed and buried step edges on graphite using an atomic force microscope (AFM) and complementary molecular dynamics simulations of the AFM tip apex. Exposed and buried steps exhibit distinct friction behavior, and the friction on either step is affected by the direction of sliding, i.e., moving up or down the step, and the bluntness of the tip.more » These trends are analyzing in terms of the trajectory of the AFM tip as it moves over the step, which is a convolution of the topography of the surface and the tip shape.« less

Exposures of tungsten nanostructures to divertor plasmas in DIII-D

DOE PAGES

Rudakov, D. L.; Wong, C. P. C.; Doerner, R. P.; ...

2016-01-22

Tungsten nanostructures (W-fuzz) prepared in the PISCES-A linear device have been found to survive direct exposure to divertor plasmas in DIII-D. W-fuzz was exposed in the lower divertor of DIII-D using the divertor material evaluation system. Two samples were exposed in lower single null (LSN) deuterium H-mode plasmas. The first sample was exposed in three discharges terminated by vertical displacement event disruptions, and the second in two discharges near the lowered X-point. More recently, three samples were exposed near the lower outer strike point in predominantly helium H-mode LSN plasmas. In all cases, the W-fuzz survived plasma exposure with littlemore » obvious damage except in the areas where unipolar arcing occurred. In conclusion, arcing is effective in W-fuzz removal, and it appears that surfaces covered with W-fuzz can be more prone to arcing than smooth W surfaces.« less

Effects of topographic features on postfire exposed mineral soil in small watersheds

Treesearch

Mariana Dobre; Joan Q. Wu; William J. Elliot; Ina S. Miller; Theresa B. Jain

2014-01-01

Exposed mineral soil is an immediate result of forest fires with direct relevance on surface runoff and soil erosion. The goal of this study was to determine which topographic features influence the distribution of exposed mineral soil following wildfire in forested watersheds. In a field investigation 2 months after a simulated wildfire, ground cover was measured and...

Grid-Sphere Electrodes for Contact with Ionospheric Plasma

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stone, Nobie H.; Poe, Garrett D.

2010-01-01

Grid-sphere electrodes have been proposed for use on the positively biased end of electrodynamic space tethers. A grid-sphere electrode is fabricated by embedding a wire mesh in a thin film from which a spherical balloon is formed. The grid-sphere electrode would be deployed from compact stowage by inflating the balloon in space. The thin-film material used to inflate the balloon is formulated to vaporize when exposed to the space environment. This would leave the bare metallic spherical grid electrode attached to the tether, which would present a small cross-sectional area (essentially, the geometric wire shadow area only) to incident neutral atoms and molecules. Most of the neutral particles, which produce dynamic drag when they impact a surface, would pass unimpeded through the open grid spaces. However, partly as a result of buildup of a space charge inside the grid-sphere, and partially, the result of magnetic field effects, the electrode would act almost like a solid surface with respect to the flux of electrons. The net result would be that grid-sphere electrodes would introduce minimal aerodynamic drag, yet have effective electrical-contact surface areas large enough to collect multiampere currents from the ionospheric plasma that are needed for operation of electrodynamic tethers. The vaporizable-balloon concept could also be applied to the deployment of large radio antennas in outer space.

Hypoxic Three-Dimensional Scaffold-Free Aggregate Cultivation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in a Stirred Tank Reactor.

PubMed

Egger, Dominik; Schwedhelm, Ivo; Hansmann, Jan; Kasper, Cornelia

2017-05-23

Extensive expansion of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for cell-based therapies remains challenging since long-term cultivation and excessive passaging in two-dimensional conditions result in a loss of essential stem cell properties. Indeed, low survival rate of cells, alteration of surface marker profiles, and reduced differentiation capacity are observed after in vitro expansion and reduce therapeutic success in clinical studies. Remarkably, cultivation of MSCs in three-dimensional aggregates preserve stem cell properties. Hence, the large scale formation and cultivation of MSC aggregates is highly desirable. Besides other effects, MSCs cultivated under hypoxic conditions are known to display increased proliferation and genetic stability. Therefore, in this study we demonstrate cultivation of adipose derived human MSC aggregates in a stirred tank reactor under hypoxic conditions. Although aggregates were exposed to comparatively high average shear stress of 0.2 Pa as estimated by computational fluid dynamics, MSCs displayed a viability of 78-86% and maintained their surface marker profile and differentiation potential after cultivation. We postulate that cultivation of 3D MSC aggregates in stirred tank reactors is valuable for large-scale production of MSCs or their secreted compounds after further optimization of cultivation parameters.

Crystallographic studies of the anthrax lethal toxin. Final report, 1 July 1994-31 December 1996

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

Frederick, C.A.

1997-01-01

Protective Antigen (PA) is the central component of the three-part protein toxin secreted by Bacillus anthraces, the organism responsible for anthrax. Following proteolytic activation on the host cell surface, PA forms a membrane-inserting heptamer that translocates the toxic enzymes into the cytosol. We have solved the crystal structure of monomeric PA at 2.1 A resolution and the water-soluble heptamer at 4.5 A resolution. The monomer is organized mainly into antiparallel b-sheets and has four domains: an N-terminal domain containing two calcium ions; a heptamerization domain containing a large flexible loop implicated in membrane insertion; a small domain of unknown function;more » and a C-terminal receptor-binding domain. Removal of a 20 kDa fragment from the N-terminal domain permits assembly of the heptamer, a ring-shaped structure with a negatively charged lumen, and exposes a large hydrophobic surface for binding the toxic enzymes. We present a model of pH-dependent membrane insertion involving formation of a porin-like membrane-spanning b barrel. These studies greatly enhance current understanding of the mechanism of anthrax intoxication, and will be useful in the design of recombinant anthrax vaccines.« less

Pressures in Tumuli: A Study of Tumuli Formation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hansen, James E.

2005-01-01

Tumuli form via localized inflation in surface lava flows. These domed features have widths of 10-20 m, lengths of 10-150 m, and heights of 1-9 m. The axial fracture exposes a brittle crust overlying a ductilely deformed layer. The total crustal thickness is typically less than lm. Tumuli are observed on both terrestrial and martian lava flow surfaces, and provide insight on the flow formation processes and rates. Past studies have estimated the inflation pressure using a bending model for a circular, thin elastic plate, assuming small deflection (Rossi and Gudmundson, 1996). This formulation results in unrealistic pressures for some tumuli. We thus examine alternative models, including those with different shapes, bending of the ductile crust, large deflection, plastic deformation, and thick plate bending. Using the thickness of the ductile crust in the equations for thin, circular plates reduces most pressures to reasonable values. Alternative plate shapes do not cause a significant reduction in inflation pressure. Although the large deflection equations should be applicable based on the plate thickness to tumuli height ratios, they give even less realistic pressures. Tumuli with unrealistic pressures appear to have exceeded the critical bending moment, and have relatively thick crusts, requiring thick plate bending models.

Dust in the western U.S.: how biological, physical and human activities at the local scale interact to affect hydrologic function at the landscape scale (Invited)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Belnap, J.; Reheis, M. C.; Munson, S. M.

2009-12-01

Dryland regions constitute over 35% of terrestrial lands around the globe. Limited rainfall in these regions restricts plant growth and the spaces between vascular plants are often large. Most interspace soils are protected from wind erosion by the cover of rocks, physical crusts, and biological crusts (cyanobacteria, lichens, and mosses). However, disturbance of the soil surface in dryland regions (e.g., recreation, livestock, mining and energy exploration, military exercises, fire) reduces or eliminates the protective cover of the soils. Rising temperatures will reduce soil moisture and thus plant cover. Wind tunnel data show that most desert surfaces produce little sediment under typical wind speeds. However, disturbing the soil surface with vehicles, humans, or animals resulted in much higher sediment production from all surfaces tested, regardless of parent material, texture, or age of the soil surface. Synergist effects, such as surface disturbance occurring during drought periods in annualized plant communities, can create very large dust events. As surface disturbance, invasion, and drought are expected to increase in the future, an increase in dust production can be expected as well. Increased particulates in the air threaten human well-being through disease, highway accidents, and economic losses. Where dust losses are greater than the inputs, the source areas lose carbon and nutrients. These compounds are transferred to high elevation regions, where such fertilization likely impacts ecosystem function. Deposition of dust on the snowpack darkens the surface, increasing snowmelt by 30 days or more and exposing soils to evaporation, all of which decrease the quantity and quality of water in major streams and rivers. As increases occur in temperature, pumping of shallow aquifers, human activities, and invasion of exotic annual plants in dryland regions, the frequency, severity, and negative impact of dust storms is expected to increase as well. The implications of these future changes will be discussed.

Controlling the Electrochemically Active Area of Carbon Fiber Microelectrodes by the Electrodeposition and Selective Removal of an Insulating Photoresist

PubMed Central

Lambie, Bradley A.; Orwar, Owe; Weber, Stephen G.

2008-01-01

A new and simple method permits control of the electrochemically active area of a carbon fiber microelectrode. An electrophoretic photoresist insulates the 10 μm diameter carbon fiber microelectrodes. Photolysis of the photoresist followed by immersion of the exposed area into a developing solution reveals electroactive carbon fiber surface. The electroactive surface area exposed can be controlled with a good degree of reproducibility. PMID:16841943

Surface science studies on titania for solar fuel applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hadsell, Courtney Sara Mathews

Titanium dioxide (titania) is a well-studied material for various applications including but not limited to, paint, sunscreen, pharmaceuticals and solar cell applications (photocatalysis.) It can be found in three main crystal forms; rutile, anatase, and brookite and this work will focus on the anatase form which has been heavily studied for its potential in dye sensitized solar cells (DSSCs.) I propose that aqueous and photo dye stability can be improved by taking special care to the exposed surface of anatase. Additionally, the theoretical maximum open circuit voltage of a DSSC is dependent upon which surface is exposed to the electrolyte. Previous works in this area have not been rigorous with respect to the surface and morphology of titania being used. Standard synthesis techniques of anatase lead to a crystal that generally has 94% of the titania (101) surface exposed, and the other 6% is the higher energy (001) surface. The (101) surface has 5 & 6-fold coordinated titania whereas the (001) surface only has 5-fold (under) coordinated titania. This under-coordination leads to enhanced reactivity of the (001) surface which has been demonstrated by dissassociative adsorption of water, and catalysis applications. Much theoretical work has focused on the minority (001) surface because up until recently synthesizing anatase with enhanced exposure of the (001) surface has been difficult. The initial materials for this study will be multilayer titania nanotubes (TiNTs) and nanosheets (TiNS) which have been previously characterized by my predecessor. The TiNTs and TiNS have 100% exposed (001)-like surface. Both of these materials show enhanced stability of phosphonated dye binding as compared to the current standard of anatase nanoparticles (NPs) however, due to their limited thermal stability the potential of incorporating the TiNTs and TiNSs into devices has been eliminated in this study. To overcome the device limitations I will synthesis a novel titania nanotile (ntile) material which will have enhancement of the (001) surface while an increased thermal stability allowing for incorporation into a device. These ntiles will be created from a hydrothermal hydrolysis reaction between titanium n-butoxide (TiBuOx) and hydrofluoric acid (HF.) I will characterize this novel material and demonstrate the enhanced dye binding as well as the device capabilities.

F 2 excimer laser (157 nm) radiation modification and surface ablation of PHEMA hydrogels and the effects on bioactivity: Surface attachment and proliferation of human corneal epithelial cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zainuddin; Chirila, Traian V.; Barnard, Zeke; Watson, Gregory S.; Toh, Chiong; Blakey, Idriss; Whittaker, Andrew K.; Hill, David J. T.

2011-02-01

Physical and chemical changes at the surface of poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (PHEMA) hydrogels modified by ablation with an F 2 excimer laser were investigated experimentally. An important observation was that only the outer exposed surface layers of the hydrogel were affected by the exposure to 157 nm radiation. The effect of the surface changes on the tendency of cells to adhere to the PHEMA was also investigated. A 0.5 cm 2 area of the hydrogel surfaces was exposed to laser irradiation at 157 nm to fluences of 0.8 and 4 J cm -2. The changes in surface topography were analysed by light microscopy and atomic force microscopy, while the surface chemistry was characterized by attenuated total reflection infrared and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopies. Cell-interfacial interactions were examined based on the proliferation of human corneal limbal epithelial (HLE) cells cultured on the laser-modified hydrogels, and on the unexposed hydrogels and tissue culture plastic for comparison. It was observed that the surface topography of laser-exposed hydrogels showed rippled patterns with a surface roughness increasing at the higher exposure dose. The changes in surface chemistry were affected not only by an indirect effect of hydrogen and hydroxyl radicals, formed by water photolysis, on the PHEMA, but also by the direct action of laser radiation on PHEMA if the surface layers of the gel become depleted of water. The laser treatment led to a change in the surface characteristics, with a lower concentration of ester side-chains and the formation of new oxygenated species at the surface. The surface also became more hydrophobic. Most importantly, the surface chemistry and the newly created surface topographical features were able to improve the attachment, spreading and growth of HLE cells.

Effect of natural ageing on surface of silver loaded TPE and its influence in antimicrobial efficacy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tomacheski, Daiane; Pittol, Michele; Simões, Douglas Naue; Ribeiro, Vanda Ferreira; Santana, Ruth Marlene Campomanes

2017-05-01

The aim of this study is to characterize the modifications in silver loaded TPE surfaces exposed to weathering and their relation to susceptibility to microbial attack. Silver loaded TPE materials were exposed to natural ageing for nine months and modifications in antimicrobial properties and surface characteristics were evaluated. Chemical changes were investigated by using the infrared spectra. The average surface roughness and topography were determined by atomic force microscopy. Contact angle was measured to verify wettability conditions and surface free energy (SFE). After nine months of exposure, a decrease in the antimicrobial properties of loaded TPE compounds was observed. A reduction in surface roughness and improvement in wettability and high values of polar component of SFE were verified. The best antibacterial action was noticed in the sample with high Lewis acid force, lower roughness and lower carbonyl index.

A Comparative Study of Polymer and Biomolecule Surface Modifications by an Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Jet and Surface Microdischarge in Controlled Environments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bartis, Elliot; Knoll, Andrew; Luan, Pingshan; Hart, Connor; Seog, Joonil; Oehrlein, Gottlieb; Graves, David; Lempert, Walter

2014-10-01

In this work, polymer- and lipopolysaccharide-coated Si substrates were exposed to a surface microdischarge (SMD) and an atmospheric pressure plasma jet (APPJ) in controlled ambients. We seek to understand how plasma-ambient interactions impact biodeactivation and surface modifications by regulating the ambient gas chemistry and the proximity of the plasma to the ambient. A key difference between the SMD and APPJ is that the APPJ needs an Ar feed gas and the SMD does not. By adding small N2/O2 admixtures to Ar, we find that the O2 admixture in the APPJ is a key factor for both deactivation and surface modification. After plasma treatments, we detected a new chemical species on a variety of surfaces that was identified as NO3. We find that NO3 forms even with no N2 in the feed gas, demonstrating that this species forms due to interactions with ambient N2. Despite a very different discharge mechanism, the SMD modifies surfaces similarly to the APPJ, including NO3 formation. The SMD generates large O3 concentrations, which do not correlate with NO3, suggesting that O3 alone is not involved in the NO3 formation mechanism. The authors gratefully acknowledge financial support by the US Department of Energy (DE-SC0005105 and DE-SC0001939) and National Science Foundation (PHY-1004256).

Studies on the potential and public health importance of non-biting synanthropic flies in the mechanical transmission of human enterohelminths.

PubMed

Adenusi, Adedotun A; Adewoga, Thomas O S

2013-12-01

This study was aimed at examining the potential of non-biting synanthropic filth flies to acquire naturally eggs of human intestinal helminths from unsanitary sites, and its attendant public health importance. Body surface washings and gut contents of flies caught foraging while infected human faeces lay exposed at a garbage dump in Iperu, Ogun State, Nigeria and within 24 hours subsequently after removal of faeces from the dump were examined parasitologically by the formol-ether concentration technique. The viability of helminth eggs isolated from flies was determined by incubation under laboratory conditions. A total of 303 flies were examined: Musca domestica (107; 35.3%), Chrysomya megacephala (125; 41.3%) and Musca sorbens (71; 23.4%). Eggs of Ascaris lumbricoides and Trichuris trichiura isolated from exposed human faeces were recovered from the body surfaces and or gut contents of flies caught before (141; 77.5%) and after removal of exposed faeces (44; 36.4%). Eggs of Taenia sp. were isolated only from the gut contents of three C. megacephala flies caught after removal of exposed faeces. Significantly more (p<0.05) eggs were recovered from fly gut contents than body surfaces and from flies caught before than after removal of exposed faeces. 93.1% (552; from exposed faeces) and 57.4% (408; from flies) of A. lumbricoides and T. trichiura eggs were viable. Synanthropic flies may, because they carry viable eggs acquired naturally from unsanitary sites, be involved in the epidemiology of human intestinal helminthiases.

Deuterium retention and surface modification of tungsten macrobrush samples exposed in FTU Tokamak

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maddaluno, G.; Giacomi, G.; Rufoloni, A.; Verdini, L.

2007-06-01

The effect of discrete structures such as macrobrush or castellated surfaces on power handling and deuterium retention of plasma facing components is to be assessed since such geometrical configurations are needed for increasing the lifetime of the armour to heat-sink joint. Four small macrobrush W and W + 1%La2O3 samples have been exposed in the Frascati Tokamak Upgrade (FTU) scrape-off layer up to the last closed flux surface by means of the Sample Introduction System. FTU is an all metal machine with no carbon source inside vacuum vessel; it exhibits ITER relevant energy and particle fluxes on the plasma facing components. Here, results on morphological surface changes (SEM), chemical composition (EDX) and deuterium retention (TDS) are reported.

Effect of Urtica dioica agglutinin and Arabidopsis thaliana Chia4 chitinase on the protozoan Phytomonas françai.

PubMed

Gomes Rocha, Graça Celeste; Nicolich, Rebecca; Romeiro, Alexandre; Margis-Pinheiro, Márcia; Attias, Márcia; Alves-Ferreira, Márcio

2003-09-12

The genus Phytomonas is responsible for many diseases in different crop plant species. The finding that chitin is an exposed cell surface polysaccharide in Phytomonas françai and the observation that chitinases can inhibit fungal growth raises expectations about the potential effect of plant chitinases on the P. françai cell membrane surface. The plant chitinases Urtica dioica agglutinin (UDA) and Arabidopsis thaliana Chia4 (ATCHIT4) proteins were over-expressed in bacteria and the interaction between these proteins and P. françai surface was analyzed by immunocytochemistry. We showed that UDA and ATCHIT4 proteins can interact with surface-exposed chitin from P. françai.

Rapid, sensitive and direct analysis of exopolysaccharides from biofilm on aluminum surfaces exposed to sea water using MALDI-TOF MS.

PubMed

Hasan, Nazim; Gopal, Judy; Wu, Hui-Fen

2011-11-01

Biofilm studies have extensive significance since their results can provide insights into the behavior of bacteria on material surfaces when exposed to natural water. This is the first attempt of using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS) for detecting the polysaccharides formed in a complex biofilm consisting of a mixed consortium of marine microbes. MALDI-MS has been applied to directly analyze exopolysaccharides (EPS) in the biofilm formed on aluminum surfaces exposed to seawater. The optimal conditions for MALDI-MS applied to EPS analysis of biofilm have been described. In addition, microbiologically influenced corrosion of aluminum exposed to sea water by a marine fungus was also observed and the fungus identity established using MALDI-MS analysis of EPS. Rapid, sensitive and direct MALDI-MS analysis on biofilm would dramatically speed up and provide new insights into biofilm studies due to its excellent advantages such as simplicity, high sensitivity, high selectivity and high speed. This study introduces a novel, fast, sensitive and selective platform for biofilm study from natural water without the need of tedious culturing steps or complicated sample pretreatment procedures. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Using the DP-190 glue for adhesive attachment of a large space mirror and its rim

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vlasenko, Oleg; Zverev, Alexey; Sachkov, Mikhail

2014-07-01

The glue DP-190 is widely used for adhesive attachment of astrositall (zerodur) lightweight large-size space astronomical mirrors (diameter of 1.7 m and more) with elements of their frames of invar. Peculiarities of physicalmechanical behavior of the glue DP-190 when exposed to the environment during the ground operation and in orbit cause instability of the reflective surface quality of mirrors. In this report we show that even a small (around 1%-5%) volumetric deformation of a cylindrical adhesive layer with a thickness of 0.8 mm between the mirror and the rim element causes significant mirrors deformation. We propose to use adhesive layer of special form that allows to reduce volumetric deformations of the glue DP-190 up to three times. Here we present results based on primary mirror tests of the WSO-UV project.

Review of biased solar arraay. Plasma interaction studies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stevens, N. J.

1981-01-01

The Solar Electric Propulsion System (SEPS) is proposed for a variety of space missions. Power for operating SEPS is obtained from large solar array wings capable of generating tens of kilowatts of power. To minimize resistive losses in the solar array bus lines, the array is designed to operate at voltages up to 400 volts. This use of high voltage can increase interactions between the biased solar cell interconnects and plasma environments. With thrusters operating, the system ground is maintained at space plasma potential which exposes large areas of the arrays at the operating voltages. This can increase interactions with both the natural and enhanced charged particle environments. Available data on interactions between biased solar array surfaces and plasma environments are summarized. The apparent relationship between collection phenomena and solar cell size and effects of array size on interactions are discussed. The impact of these interactions on SEPS performance is presented.

Rippled scour depressions on the inner continental shelf off central California

USGS Publications Warehouse

Cacchione, David A.; Drake, David E.; Grant, William D.; Tate, George B.

1984-01-01

Side-scan sonar records taken during the recent Coastal Ocean Dynamics Experiment (CODE) show elongate, shore-normal tippled depressions of low relief on the inner continental shelf off central California between Bodega Bay and Point Arena. These features extend up to 2 kin from the coast into water depths of up to 65 m. The proposed mechanism for their generation is storm- generated bottom currents associated with coastal downwelling during the late fall and winter which scour the surficial fine-sand sediment and expose the coarser-sand substrate in the depressions. The zones of most intense erosion and the irregular spacing of the features may be controlled by submerged rock ledges and other prominent coastal features. The large straight-crested ripples within the depres- sions (heights to 40 cm; wavelengths to 1.7 m) are probably formed by large-amplitude, long-period surface waves generated by winter storms.

Reverse Non-Equilibrium Molecular Dynamics Demonstrate That Surface Passivation Controls Thermal Transport at Semiconductor-Solvent Interfaces.

PubMed

Hannah, Daniel C; Gezelter, J Daniel; Schaller, Richard D; Schatz, George C

2015-06-23

We examine the role played by surface structure and passivation in thermal transport at semiconductor/organic interfaces. Such interfaces dominate thermal transport in semiconductor nanomaterials owing to material dimensions much smaller than the bulk phonon mean free path. Utilizing reverse nonequilibrium molecular dynamics simulations, we calculate the interfacial thermal conductance (G) between a hexane solvent and chemically passivated wurtzite CdSe surfaces. In particular, we examine the dependence of G on the CdSe slab thickness, the particular exposed crystal facet, and the extent of surface passivation. Our results indicate a nonmonotonic dependence of G on ligand-grafting density, with interfaces generally exhibiting higher thermal conductance for increasing surface coverage up to ∼0.08 ligands/Å(2) (75-100% of a monolayer, depending on the particular exposed facet) and decreasing for still higher coverages. By analyzing orientational ordering and solvent penetration into the ligand layer, we show that a balance of competing effects is responsible for this nonmonotonic dependence. Although the various unpassivated CdSe surfaces exhibit similar G values, the crystal structure of an exposed facet nevertheless plays an important role in determining the interfacial thermal conductance of passivated surfaces, as the density of binding sites on a surface determines the ligand-grafting densities that may ultimately be achieved. We demonstrate that surface passivation can increase G relative to a bare surface by roughly 1 order of magnitude and that, for a given extent of passivation, thermal conductance can vary by up to a factor of ∼2 between different surfaces, suggesting that appropriately tailored nanostructures may direct heat flow in an anisotropic fashion for interface-limited thermal transport.

Helical image reconstruction of the outward-open human erythrocyte band 3 membrane domain in tubular crystals.

PubMed

Yamaguchi, Tomohiro; Fujii, Takashi; Abe, Yoshito; Hirai, Teruhisa; Kang, Dongchon; Namba, Keiichi; Hamasaki, Naotaka; Mitsuoka, Kaoru

2010-03-01

The C-terminal membrane domain of erythrocyte band 3 functions as an anion exchanger. Here, we report the three-dimensional (3D) structure of the membrane domain in an inhibitor-stabilized, outward-open conformation at 18A resolution. Unstained, frozen-hydrated tubular crystals containing the membrane domain of band 3 purified from human red blood cells (hB3MD) were examined using cryo-electron microscopy and iterative helical real-space reconstruction (IHRSR). The 3D image reconstruction of the tubular crystals showed the molecular packing of hB3MD dimers with dimensions of 60 x 110 A in the membrane plane and a thickness of 70A across the membrane. Immunoelectron microscopy and carboxyl-terminal digestion demonstrated that the intracellular surface of hB3MD was exposed on the outer surface of the tubular crystal. A 3D density map revealed that hB3MD consists of at least two subdomains and that the outward-open form is characterized by a large hollow area on the extracellular surface and continuous density on the intracellular surface. (c) 2009 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Influence of dissolved organic matter on the environmental fate of metals, nanoparticles, and colloids

USGS Publications Warehouse

Aiken, George R.; Hsu-Kim, Heileen; Ryan, Joseph N.

2011-01-01

We have known for decades that dissolved organic matter (DOM) plays a critical role in the biogeochemical cycling of trace metals and the mobility of colloidal particles in aquatic environments. In recent years, concerns about the ecological and human health effects of metal-based engineered nanoparticles released into natural waters have increased efforts to better define the nature of DOM interactions with metals and surfaces. Nanomaterials exhibit unique properties and enhanced reactivities that are not apparent in larger materials of the same composition1,2 or dissolved ions of metals that comprise the nanoparticles. These nanoparticle-specific properties generally result from the relatively large proportion of the atoms located at the surface, which leads to very high specific surface areas and a high proportion of crystal lattice imperfections relative to exposed surface area. Nanoscale colloids are ubiquitous in nature,2 and many engineered nanomaterials have analogs in the natural world. The properties of these materials, whether natural or manmade, are poorly understood, and new challenges have been presented in assessing their environmental fate. These challenges are particularly relevant in aquatic environments where interactions with DOM are key, albeit often overlooked, moderators of reactivity at the molecular and nanocolloidal scales.

A recyclable Au(I) catalyst for selective homocoupling of arylboronic acids: significant enhancement of nano-surface binding for stability and catalytic activity.

PubMed

Zhang, Xin; Zhao, Haitao; Wang, Jianhui

2010-08-01

Au nanoparticles stabilized by polystyrene-co-polymethacrylic acid microspheres (PS-co-PMAA) were prepared and characterized via X-ray diffraction (XRD), and transmission electron microscope (TEM). The Au nanoparticles supported on the microspheres showed highly selective catalytic activity for homo-coupling reactions of arylboronic acids in a system of aryl-halides and arylboronic acids. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) spectra of the catalyst shows large amounts of Au(I) complexes band to the surface of the Au nanoparticles, which contributes to the selective homocoupling of the arylboronic acids. More importantly, this supported Au complex is a highly recyclable catalyst. The supported Au catalyst can be recycled and reused at least 6 times for a phenylboronic acid reactant, whereas the parent complex shows very low catalytic activity for this compound. The high catalytic activity of this material is attributed to: (1) the high surface to volume ratio which leads to more active sites being exposed to reactants; (2) the strong surface binding of the Au nanoparticle to the Au(I) complexes, which enhances both the stability and the catalytic activity of these complexes.

Catadioptric lenses in Visible Light Communications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Garcia-Marquez, J.; Valencia, J. C.; Perez, H.; Topsu, S.

2015-04-01

Since few years ago, visible light communications (VLC) have experience an accelerated interest from a research point of view. The beginning of this decade has seen many improvements in VLC at an electronic level. High rates of transmission at low bit error ratios (BER) have been reported. A few numbers of start-ups have initiated activities to offer a variety of applications ranging from indoor geo-localization to internet, but in spite of these advancements, some other problems arise. Long-range transmissions mean a high BER which reduce the number of applications. In this sense, new redesigned optical collectors or in some cases, optical reflectors must be considered to ensure a low BER at higher distance transmissions. Here we also expose a preliminary design of a catadioptric and monolithical lens for a LI-FI receiver with two rotationally symmetrical main piecewise surfaces za and zb. These surfaces are represented in a system of cylindrical coordinates with an anterior surface za with a central and refractive sector surrounded by a peripheral reflective sector and a back piecewise surface zb with a central refractive sector and a reflective sector, both characterized as ideal for capturing light within large acceptance angles.

Drag reduction using slippery liquid infused surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hultmark, Marcus; Stone, Howard; Smits, Alexander; Jacobi, Ian; Samaha, Mohamed; Wexler, Jason; Shang, Jessica; Rosenberg, Brian; Hellström, Leo; Fan, Yuyang

2013-11-01

A new method for passive drag reduction is introduced. A surface treatment inspired by the Nepenthes pitcher plant, previously developed by Wong et al. (2011), is utilized and its design parameters are studied for increased drag reduction and durability. Nano- and micro-structured surfaces infused with a lubricant allow for mobility within the lubricant itself when the surface is exposed to flow. The mobility causes slip at the fluid-fluid interface, which drastically reduces the viscous friction. These new surfaces are fundamentally different from the more conventional superhydrophobic surfaces previously used in drag reduction studies, which rely on a gas-liquid interface. The main advantage of the liquid infused surfaces over the conventional surfaces is that the lubricant adheres more strongly to the surface, decreasing the risk of failure when exposed to turbulence and other high-shear flows. We have shown that these surfaces can reduce viscous drag up to 20% in both Taylor-Couette flow and in a parallel plate rheometer. Supported under ONR Grants N00014-12-1-0875 and N00014-12-1-0962 (program manager Ki-Han Kim).

Exfoliation of the tungsten fibreform nanostructure by unipolar arcing in the LHD divertor plasma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tokitani, M.; Kajita, S.; Masuzaki, S.; Hirahata, Y.; Ohno, N.; Tanabe, T.; LHD Experiment Group

2011-10-01

The tungsten nanostructure (W-fuzz) created in the linear divertor simulator (NAGDIS) was exposed to the Large Helical Device (LHD) divertor plasma for only 2 s (1 shot) to study exfoliation/erosion and microscopic modifications due to the high heat/particle loading under high magnetic field conditions. Very fine and randomly moved unipolar arc trails were clearly observed on about half of the W-fuzz area (6 × 10 mm2). The fuzzy surface was exfoliated by continuously moving arc spots even for the very short exposure time. This is the first observation of unipolar arcing and exfoliation of some areas of the W-fuzz structure itself in a large plasma confinement device with a high magnetic field. The typical width and depth of each arc trail were about 8 µm and 1 µm, respectively, and the arc spots moved randomly on the micrometre scale. The fractality of the arc trails was analysed using a box-counting method, and the fractal dimension (D) of the arc trails was estimated to be D ≈ 1.922. This value indicated that the arc spots moved in Brownian motion, and were scarcely influenced by the magnetic field. One should note that such a large scale exfoliation due to unipolar arcing may enhance the surface erosion of the tungsten armour and act as a serious impurity source for fusion plasmas.

A hybrid MBE-based growth method for large-area synthesis of stacked hexagonal boron nitride/graphene heterostructures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wofford, Joseph M.; Nakhaie, Siamak; Krause, Thilo; Liu, Xianjie; Ramsteiner, Manfred; Hanke, Michael; Riechert, Henning; J. Lopes, J. Marcelo

2017-02-01

Van der Waals heterostructures combining hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) and graphene offer many potential advantages, but remain difficult to produce as continuous films over large areas. In particular, the growth of h-BN on graphene has proven to be challenging due to the inertness of the graphene surface. Here we exploit a scalable molecular beam epitaxy based method to allow both the h-BN and graphene to form in a stacked heterostructure in the favorable growth environment provided by a Ni(111) substrate. This involves first saturating a Ni film on MgO(111) with C, growing h-BN on the exposed metal surface, and precipitating the C back to the h-BN/Ni interface to form graphene. The resulting laterally continuous heterostructure is composed of a top layer of few-layer thick h-BN on an intermediate few-layer thick graphene, lying on top of Ni/MgO(111). Examinations by synchrotron-based grazing incidence diffraction, X-ray photoemission spectroscopy, and UV-Raman spectroscopy reveal that while the h-BN is relaxed, the lattice constant of graphene is significantly reduced, likely due to nitrogen doping. These results illustrate a different pathway for the production of h-BN/graphene heterostructures, and open a new perspective for the large-area preparation of heterosystems combining graphene and other 2D or 3D materials.

Exposed water ice discovered near the south pole of Mars

USGS Publications Warehouse

Titus, T.N.; Kieffer, H.H.; Christensen, P.R.

2003-01-01

The Mars Odyssey Thermal Emission Imaging System (THEMIS) has discovered water ice exposed near the edge of Mars' southern perennial polar cap. The surface H2O ice was first observed by THEMIS as a region that was cooler than expected for dry soil at that latitude during the summer season. Diurnal and seasonal temperature trends derived from Mars Global Surveyor Thermal Emission Spectrometer observations indicate that there is H2O ice at the surface. Viking observations, and the few other relevant THEMIS observations, indicate that surface H2O ice may be widespread around and under the perennial CO2 cap.

Effect of surface functionalizations of multi-walled carbon nanotubes on neoplastic transformation potential in primary human lung epithelial cells.

PubMed

Stueckle, Todd A; Davidson, Donna C; Derk, Ray; Wang, Peng; Friend, Sherri; Schwegler-Berry, Diane; Zheng, Peng; Wu, Nianqiang; Castranova, Vince; Rojanasakul, Yon; Wang, Liying

2017-06-01

Functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotube (fMWCNT) development has been intensified to improve their surface activity for numerous applications, and potentially reduce toxic effects. Although MWCNT exposures are associated with lung tumorigenesis in vivo, adverse responses associated with exposure to different fMWCNTs in human lung epithelium are presently unknown. This study hypothesized that different plasma-coating functional groups determine MWCNT neoplastic transformation potential. Using our established model, human primary small airway epithelial cells (pSAECs) were continuously exposed for 8 and 12 weeks at 0.06 μg/cm 2 to three-month aged as-prepared-(pMWCNT), carboxylated-(MW-COOH), and aminated-MWCNTs (MW-NH x ). Ultrafine carbon black (UFCB) and crocidolite asbestos (ASB) served as particle controls. fMWCNTs were characterized during storage, and exposed cells were assessed for several established cancer cell hallmarks. Characterization analyses conducted at 0 and 2 months of aging detected a loss of surface functional groups over time due to atmospheric oxidation, with MW-NH x possessing less oxygen and greater lung surfactant binding affinity. Following 8 weeks of exposure, all fMWCNT-exposed cells exhibited significant increased proliferation compared to controls at 7 d post-treatment, while UFCB- and ASB-exposed cells did not differ significantly from controls. UFCB, pMWCNT, and MW-COOH exposure stimulated significant transient invasion behavior. Conversely, aged MW-NH x -exposed cells displayed moderate increases in soft agar colony formation and morphological transformation potential, while UFCB cells showed a minimal effect compared to all other treatments. In summary, surface properties of aged fMWCNTs can impact cell transformation events in vitro following continuous, occupationally relevant exposures.

Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma in Australia and New Zealand: High-Surface-Area Textured Implants Are Associated with Increased Risk.

PubMed

Loch-Wilkinson, Anna; Beath, Kenneth J; Knight, Robert John William; Wessels, William Louis Fick; Magnusson, Mark; Papadopoulos, Tim; Connell, Tony; Lofts, Julian; Locke, Michelle; Hopper, Ingrid; Cooter, Rodney; Vickery, Karen; Joshi, Preeti Avinash; Prince, H Miles; Deva, Anand K

2017-10-01

The association between breast implants and breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) has been confirmed. Implant-related risk has been difficult to estimate to date due to incomplete datasets. All cases in Australia and New Zealand were identified and analyzed. Textured implants reported in this group were subjected to surface area analysis. Sales data from three leading breast implant manufacturers (i.e., Mentor, Allergan, and Silimed) dating back to 1999 were secured to estimate implant-specific risk. Fifty-five cases of breast implant-associated ALCL were diagnosed in Australia and New Zealand between 2007 and 2016. The mean age of patients was 47.1 years and the mean time of implant exposure was 7.46 years. There were four deaths in the series related to mass and/or metastatic presentation. All patients were exposed to textured implants. Surface area analysis confirmed that higher surface area was associated with 64 of the 75 implants used (85.3 percent). Biocell salt loss textured (Allergan, Inamed, and McGhan) implants accounted for 58.7 percent of the implants used in this series. Comparative analysis showed the risk of developing breast implant-associated ALCL to be 14.11 times higher with Biocell textured implants and 10.84 higher with polyurethane (Silimed) textured implants compared with Siltex textured implants. This study has calculated implant-specific risk of breast implant-associated ALCL. Higher-surface-area textured implants have been shown to significantly increase the risk of breast implant-associated ALCL in Australia and New Zealand. The authors present a unifying hypothesis to explain these observations.

Effects of 30 Mev Electron Irradiation on InGaAsP LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) and InGaAs Photodiodes.

DTIC Science & Technology

1986-06-01

devices in satellites and military combat systems, the reliability of LEDs and photodiodes when exposed to the typical radiation of a space or nuclear ...could be exposed to: nuclear power plants, space environments or a nuclear weapon detonation. When located on the 15 surface of the earth, nuclear power...35,000 miles above the earth’s surface. Additionally, electrons, neutrons and other products from a high altitude detonation of a nuclear weapon can

Exposure of Water Ice in the Northern Mid-lattitudes of Mars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Allen, Carlton C.; Kanner, Lisa C.

2007-01-01

Water ice is exposed in the martian north polar cap, and is occasionally exposed beyond the cap boundary. Orbital gamma ray spectrometry data strongly imply the presence of water ice within meters of the surface at latitudes north of approximately 60 deg. We have examined midlatitude areas of the northern plains displaying evidence of residual ice-rich layers, and report possible present-day exposures of ice. These exposures, if confirmed, could constrain the latitudinal and temporal stability of surface ice on Mars.

Atmospheric fate of oil matter adsorbed on sea salt particles under UV light

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vaitilingom, M.; Avij, P.; Huang, H.; Valsaraj, K. T.

2014-12-01

The presence of liquid petroleum hydrocarbons at the sea water surface is an important source of marine pollution. An oil spill in sea-water will most likely occur due to an involuntary accident from tankers, offshore platforms, etc. However, a large amount of oil is also deliberately spilled in sea-water during the clean-out process of tank vessels (e.g. for the Mediterranean Sea, 490,000 tons/yr). Moreover, the pollution caused by an oil spill does not only affect the aquatic environment but also is of concern for the atmospheric environment. A portion of the oil matter present at the sea-water surface is transported into the atmosphere viaevaporation and adsorption at the surface of sea spray particles. Few studies are related to the presence of oil matter in airborne particles resulting from their adsorption on sea salt aerosols. We observed that the non-volatile oil matter was adsorbed at the surface of sea-salt crystals (av. size of 1.1 μm). Due to their small size, these particles can have a significant residence time in the atmosphere. The hydrocarbon matter adsorbed at the surface of these particles can also be transformed by catalyzers present in the atmosphere (i.e. UV, OH, O3, ...). In this work, we focused on the photo-oxidation rates of the C16 to C30alkanes present in these particles. We utilized a bubble column reactor, which produced an abundance of small sized bubbles. These bubbles generated droplets upon bursting at the air-salt water interface. These droplets were then further dried up and lifted to the top of the column where they were collected as particles. These particles were incubated in a controlled reactor in either dark conditions or under UV-visible light. The difference of alkane content analyzed by GC-MS between the particles exposed to UV or the particles not exposed to UV indicated that up to 20% in mass was lost after 20 min of light exposure. The degradation kinetics varied for each range of alkanes (C16-20, C21-25, C26-30) from 20 to 60 μg L-1 min-1. To observe the effect on air composition when samples are exposed to solar light, experiments were conducted under controlled atmospheric conditions: oxygen free or with O3 gas. The results showed the importance of the photo-transformation processes of oil in airborne particles and its relation to the gaseous nature of the ambient atmosphere.

Surface exciton emission of MgO crystals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuang, Wen-Jian; Li, Qing; Chen, Yu-Xiang; Hu, Kai; Wang, Ning-Hui; Xing, Fang-Li; Yan, Qun; Sun, Shuai-Shuai; Huang, Yan; Tao, Ye; Tolner, Harm

2013-09-01

MgO crystals have been exposed to vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) radiation from a synchrotron, with energies up to 9 eV, and the emitted light, at wavelengths above 200 nm, was observed. It is concluded that bulk excitons, play an important role in the diffusion of energy inside MgO crystals, resulting in 5.85 eV (212 nm) emission from the MgO terraces of large (0.2-2 µm) MgO : F crystals. In the case of aliovalent impurity doping, then the bulk exciton energy is also transferred to the Vk centres and 5.3 eV (235 nm) light is emitted. Both fluorine and silicon doping appear to promote UV surface emission, acting similarly to an ns2 ion inside MgO, while strong scandium doping is killing the surface emission completely. The 212 nm surface UV emission and the 235 nm bulk UV emission can be excited only at the bandgap edge. Broadband visible light, centred around 400 nm, is also emitted. Contrary to the UV emission, this is not generated when excited at the bandgap edge; instead, we find that it is only excited at sub-bandgap energies, with a maximum at the 5C surface excitation energy of 5.71 eV (217 nm) for the MgO terraces.

Seasonal inorganic nitrogen release in alpine lakes on the Colorado western slope

USGS Publications Warehouse

Inyan, B.I.; Williams, M.W.; Tonnessen, K.; Turk, J.T.; Campbell, D.H.

1998-01-01

In the Rocky Mountains, the association of increases in acidic deposition with increased atmospheric loading of sulfate and direct changes in surface water chemistry has been well established. The importance, though, of increased nitrogen (N) deposition in the episodic acidification of alpine lakes and N saturation in alpine ecosystems is only beginning to be documented. In alpine areas of the Colorado Front Range, modest loadings of N in deposition have been associated with leakage of N to surface waters. On the Colorado western slope, however, no leakage of N to surface waters has been reported. A 1995 study that included early season under-ice water samples that were not available in earlier studies showed that there is, in fact, N leakage to surface waters in some western slope basins. Under-ice nitrate (NO3-) concentrations were as high as 10.5 ??q L-1, and only decreased to detection limits in September. Landscape type appears to be important in leakage of N to surface waters, which is associated with basins having steep slopes, thin soils, and large amounts of exposed bedrock. NO3- leakage compounds the existing sensitivity to episodic acidification from low acid neutralizing capacity (ANC), which is less than 40 ??eq L-1 in those basins.

Optomechanical integrated simulation of Mars medium resolution lens with large field of view

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Wenqiang; Xu, Guangzhou; Yang, Jianfeng; Sun, Yi

2017-10-01

The lens of Mars detector is exposed to solar radiation and space temperature for long periods of time during orbit, so that the ambient temperature of the optical system is in a dynamic state. The optical and mechanical change caused by heat will lead to camera's visual axis drift and the wavefront distortion. The surface distortion of the optical lens includes the displacement of the rigid body and the distortion of the surface shape. This paper used the calculation method based on the integrated optomechanical analysis, to explore the impact of thermodynamic load on image quality. Through the analysis software, established a simulation model of the lens structure. The shape distribution and the surface characterization parameters of the lens in some temperature ranges were analyzed and compared. the PV / RMS value, deformation cloud of the lens surface and quality evaluation of imaging was achieved. This simulation has been successfully measured the lens surface shape and shape distribution under the load which is difficult to measure on the experimental conditions. The integrated simulation method of the optical machine can obtain the change of the optical parameters brought by the temperature load. It shows that the application of Integrated analysis has play an important role in guiding the designing the lens.

Direct electrical control of IgG conformation and functional activity at surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghisellini, Paola; Caiazzo, Marialuisa; Alessandrini, Andrea; Eggenhöffner, Roberto; Vassalli, Massimo; Facci, Paolo

2016-11-01

We have devised a supramolecular edifice involving His-tagged protein A and antibodies to yield surface immobilized, uniformly oriented, IgG-type, antibody layers with Fab fragments exposed off an electrode surface. We demonstrate here that we can affect the conformation of IgGs, likely pushing/pulling electrostatically Fab fragments towards/from the electrode surface. A potential difference between electrode and solution acts on IgGs’ charged aminoacids modulating the accessibility of the specific recognition regions of Fab fragments by antigens in solution. Consequently, antibody-antigen affinity is affected by the sign of the applied potential: a positive potential enables an effective capture of antigens; a negative one pulls the fragments towards the electrode, where steric hindrance caused by neighboring molecules largely hampers the capture of antigens. Different experimental techniques (electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, fluorescence confocal microscopy and electrochemical atomic force spectroscopy) were used to evaluate binding kinetics, surface coverage, effect of the applied electric field on IgGs, and role of charged residues on the phenomenon described. These findings expand the concept of electrical control of biological reactions and can be used to gate electrically specific recognition reactions with impact in biosensors, bioactuators, smart biodevices, nanomedicine, and fundamental studies related to chemical reaction kinetics.

Nanotherapy of cancer by photoelectrons emitted from the surface of nanoparticles exposed to nonionizing ultraviolet radiation.

PubMed

Letfullin, Renat R; George, Thomas F

2017-05-01

We introduce a new method for selectively destroying cancer cell organelles by electrons emitted from the surface of intracellularly localized nanoparticles exposed to the nonionizing ultraviolet (UV) radiation. We propose to target cancerous intracellular organelles by nanoparticles and expose them to UV radiation with energy density safe for healthy tissue. We simulate the number of photoelectrons produced by the nanoparticles made of various metals and radii, calculate their kinetic energy and compare it to the threshold energy for producing biological damage. Exposure of metal nanoparticles to UV radiation generates photoelectrons with kinetic energies up to 11 eV, which is high enough to produce single- to double-strand breaks in the DNA and damage the cancerous cell organelles.

Co-fabrication of chitosan and epoxy photoresist to form microwell arrays with permeable hydrogel bottoms

PubMed Central

Ornoff, Douglas M.; Wang, Yuli; Proctor, Angela; Shah, Akash S.; Allbritton, Nancy L.

2015-01-01

Microfabrication technology offers the potential to create biological platforms with customizable patterns and surface chemistries, allowing precise control over the biochemical microenvironment to which a cell or group of cells is exposed. However, most microfabricated platforms grow cells on impermeable surfaces. This report describes the co-fabrication of a micropatterned epoxy photoresist film with a chitosan film to create a freestanding array of permeable, hydrogel-bottomed microwells. These films possess optical properties ideal for microscopy applications, and the chitosan layers are semi-permeable with a molecular exclusion of 9.9 ± 2.1 kDa. By seeding cells into the microwells, overlaying inert mineral oil, and supplying media via the bottom surface, this hybrid film permits cells to be physically isolated from one another but maintained in culture for at least 4 days. Arrays co-fabricated using these materials reduce both large-molecular-weight biochemical crosstalk between cells and mixing of different clonal populations, and will enable high-throughput studies of cellular heterogeneity with increased ability to customize dynamic interrogations compared to materials in currently available technologies. PMID:26447557

Reaction of Basaltic Materials under High-Fidelity Venus Surface Conditions using the Glenn Extreme Environment Rig: First Results

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Radoman-Shaw, Brandon; Harvey, Ralph; Costa, Gustavo; Nakley, Leah Michelle; Jacobson, Nathan S.

2016-01-01

Both historical and current investigations of Venus suggest that atmosphererock interactions play a critical role in the evolution of its atmosphere and crust. We have begun a series of systematic experiments designed to further our understanding of atmosphere-driven weathering and secondary mineralization of basaltic materials that may be occurring on Venus today. Our experiments expose representative igneous phases (mineral, glasses and rocks) to a high-fidelity simulation of Venus surface conditions using the NASA Glenn Extreme Environment Rig (GEER) located at the NASA Glenn Research Center in Cleveland, Ohio. GEER is a very large (800L) vessel capable of producing a long-term, high fidelity simulation of both the physical conditions (750 K and 92 bar) and atmospheric chemistry (down to the ppb-level) asso-ciated with the Venusian surface. As of this writing we have just finished the first of several planned experiments: a 42-day exposure of selected mineral, rocks and volcanic glasses. Our goal is to identify and prioritize the reactions taking place and better our understanding of their importance in Venus' climate history.

A parametric study of helium retention in beryllium and its effect on deuterium retention

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alegre, D.; Baldwin, M. J.; Simmonds, M.; Nishijima, D.; Hollmann, E. M.; Brezinsek, S.; Doerner, R. P.

2017-12-01

Beryllium samples have been exposed in the PISCES-B linear plasma device to conditions relevant to the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) in pure He, D, and D/He mixed plasmas. Except at intermediate sample exposure temperatures (573-673 K) He addition to a D plasma is found to have a beneficial effect as it reduces the D retention in Be (up to ˜55%), although the mechanism is unclear. Retention of He is typically around 1020-1021 He m-2, and is affected primarily by the Be surface temperature during exposition, by the ion fluence at <500 K exposure, but not by the ion impact energy at 573 K. Contamination of the Be surface with high-Z elements from the mask of the sample holder in pure He plasmas is also observed under certain conditions, and leads to unexpectedly large He retention values, as well as changes in the surface morphology. An estimation of the tritium retention in the Be first wall of ITER is provided, being sufficiently low to allow a safe operation of ITER.

Nonequilibrium Green's functions and atom-surface dynamics: Simple views from a simple model system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boström, E.; Hopjan, M.; Kartsev, A.; Verdozzi, C.; Almbladh, C.-O.

2016-03-01

We employ Non-equilibrium Green's functions (NEGF) to describe the real-time dynamics of an adsorbate-surface model system exposed to ultrafast laser pulses. For a finite number of electronic orbitals, the system is solved exactly and within different levels of approximation. Specifically i) the full exact quantum mechanical solution for electron and nuclear degrees of freedom is used to benchmark ii) the Ehrenfest approximation (EA) for the nuclei, with the electron dynamics still treated exactly. Then, using the EA, electronic correlations are treated with NEGF within iii) 2nd Born and with iv) a recently introduced hybrid scheme, which mixes 2nd Born self-energies with non-perturbative, local exchange- correlation potentials of Density Functional Theory (DFT). Finally, the effect of a semi-infinite substrate is considered: we observe that a macroscopic number of de-excitation channels can hinder desorption. While very preliminary in character and based on a simple and rather specific model system, our results clearly illustrate the large potential of NEGF to investigate atomic desorption, and more generally, the non equilibrium dynamics of material surfaces subject to ultrafast laser fields.

Effects of High Temperature Exposures on Fatigue Life of Disk Superalloys

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gabb, Tim P.; Telesman, Jack; Kantzos, Pete T.; Smith, James W.; Browning, Paul F.

2004-01-01

The effects on fatigue life of high temperature exposures simulating service conditions were considered for two disk superalloys. Powder metallurgy processed, supersolvus heat treated Udimet (trademark) 720 and ME3 fatigue specimens were exposed in air at temperatures of 650 to 704 C, for times of 100 h to over 1000 h. They were then tested using conventional fatigue tests at 650 and 704 C, to determine the effects of exposure on fatigue resistance. Cyclic dwell verification tests were also performed to contrast the effects of intermixed exposures and fatigue cycles. The prior exposures reduced life by up to 70% and increased the scatter in life, compared to unexposed levels. Cyclic dwell tests reduced lives even more. Fractographic evaluations indicated the failure mode was shifted by the exposures and cyclic dwells from predominantly internal to often surface crack initiations. The increased scatter in life was related to the competition between internal crack initiations at inclusions or large grains producing longer lives, and surface crack initiations at an environmentally affected surface layer producing shorter lives.

Nonlinear electronic transport and enhanced catalytic behavior caused by native oxides on Cu nanowires

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hajimammadov, Rashad; Csendes, Zita; Ojakoski, Juha-Matti; Lorite, Gabriela Simone; Mohl, Melinda; Kordas, Krisztian

2017-09-01

Electrical transport properties of individual nanowires (both in axial and transversal directions) and their random networks suggest rapid oxidation when Cu is exposed to ambient conditions. The oxidation process is elucidated by thorough XRD, XPS and Raman analyzes conducted for a period of 30 days. Based on the obtained experimental data, we may conclude that first, cuprous oxide and copper hydroxide form that finally transform to cupric oxide. In electrical applications, oxidation of copper is not a true problem as long as thin films or bulk metal is concerned. However, as highlighted in our work, this is not the case for nanowires, since the oxidized surface plays quite important role in the contact formation and also in the conduction of percolated nanowire networks. On the other hand, by taking advantage of the mixed surface oxide states present on the nanowires along with their large specific surface area, we tested and found excellent catalytic activity of the oxidized nanowires in phenol oxidation, which suggests further applications of these materials in catalysis.

Quantification of peroxide ion passage in dentin, enamel, and cementum after internal bleaching with hydrogen peroxide.

PubMed

Palo, R M; Bonetti-Filho, I; Valera, M C; Camargo, C H R; Camargo, Sea; Moura-Netto, C; Pameijer, C

2012-01-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the amount of peroxide passage from the pulp chamber to the external enamel surface during the internal bleaching technique. Fifty bovine teeth were sectioned transversally 5 mm below the cemento-enamel junction (CEJ), and the remaining part of the root was sealed with a 2-mm layer of glass ionomer cement. The external surface of the samples was coated with nail varnish, with the exception of standardized circular areas (6-mm diameter) located on the enamel, exposed dentin, or cementum surface of the tooth. The teeth were divided into three experimental groups according to exposed areas close to the CEJ and into two control groups (n=10/group), as follows: GE, enamel exposure area; GC, cementum exposed area; GD, dentin exposed area; Negative control, no presence of internal bleaching agent and uncoated surface; and Positive control, pulp chamber filled with bleaching agent and external surface totally coated with nail varnish. The pulp chamber was filled with 35% hydrogen peroxide (Opalescence Endo, Ultradent). Each sample was placed inside of individual flasks with 1000 μL of acetate buffer solution, 2 M (pH 4.5). After seven days, the buffer solution was transferred to a glass tube, in which 100 μL of leuco-crystal violet and 50 μL of horseradish peroxidase were added, producing a blue solution. The optical density of the blue solution was determined by spectrophotometer and converted into microgram equivalents of hydrogen peroxide. Data were submitted to Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn-Bonferroni tests (α=0.05). All experimental groups presented passage of peroxide to the external surface that was statistically different from that observed in the control groups. It was verified that the passage of peroxide was higher in GD than in GE (p<0.01). The GC group presented a significantly lower peroxide passage than did GD and GE (p<0.01). It can be concluded that the hydrogen peroxide placed into the pulp chamber passed through the dental hard tissues, reaching the external surface and the periodontal tissue. The cementum surface was less permeable than were the dentin and enamel surfaces.

High-flux plasma exposure of ultra-fine grain tungsten

DOE PAGES

Kolasinski, R. D.; Buchenauer, D. A.; Doerner, R. P.; ...

2016-05-12

Here we examine the response of an ultra-fine grained (UFG) tungsten material to high-flux deuterium plasma exposure. UFG tungsten has received considerable interest as a possible plasma-facing material in magnetic confinement fusion devices, in large part because of its improved resistance to neutron damage. However, optimization of the material in this manner may lead to trade-offs in other properties. Moreover, we address two aspects of the problem in this work: (a) how high-flux plasmas modify the structure of the exposed surface, and (b) how hydrogen isotopes become trapped within the material. The specific UFG tungsten considered here contains 100 nm-widthmore » Ti dispersoids (1 wt%) that limit the growth of the W grains to a median size of 960 nm. Metal impurities (Fe, Cr) as well as O were identified within the dispersoids; these species were absent from the W matrix. To simulate relevant particle bombardment conditions, we exposed specimens of the W-Ti material to low energy (100 eV), high-flux (> 10 22 m -2 s -1) deuterium plasmas in the PISCES-A facility at the University of California, San Diego. To explore different temperature-dependent trapping mechanisms, we considered a range of exposure temperatures between 200 °C and 500 °C. For comparison, we also exposed reference specimens of conventional powder metallurgy warm-rolled and ITER-grade tungsten at 300 °C. Post-mortem focused ion beam profiling and atomic force microscopy of the UFG tungsten revealed no evidence of near-surface bubbles containing high pressure D2 gas, a common surface degradation mechanism associated with plasma exposure. Thermal desorption spectrometry indicated moderately higher trapping of D in the material compared with the reference specimens, though still within the spread of values for different tungsten grades found in the literature database. Finally, for the criteria considered here, these results do not indicate any significant obstacles to the potential use of UFG tungsten as a plasma-facing material, although further experimental work is needed to assess material response to transient events and high plasma fluence.« less

Finishing of wood

Treesearch

R. Sam Williams

1999-01-01

The primary function of any wood finish (paint, varnish, and stain, for example) is to protect the wood surface, help maintain a certain appearance, and provide a cleanable surface. Although wood can be used both outdoors and indoors without finishing, unfinished wood surfaces exposed to the weather change color, are roughened by photodegradation and surface checking,...

Control method and system for use when growing thin-films on semiconductor-based materials

DOEpatents

McKee, Rodney A.; Walker, Frederick J.

2001-01-01

A process and system for use during the growth of a thin film upon the surface of a substrate by exposing the substrate surface to vaporized material in a high vacuum (HV) facility involves the directing of an electron beam generally toward the surface of the substrate as the substrate is exposed to vaporized material so that electrons are diffracted from the substrate surface by the beam and the monitoring of the pattern of electrons diffracted from the substrate surface as vaporized material settles upon the substrate surface. When the monitored pattern achieves a condition indicative of the desired condition of the thin film being grown upon the substrate, the exposure of the substrate to the vaporized materials is shut off or otherwise adjusted. To facilitate the adjustment of the crystallographic orientation of the film relative to the electron beam, the system includes a mechanism for altering the orientation of the surface of the substrate relative to the electron beam.

Superhydrophilic TiO2 thin film by nanometer scale surface roughness and dangling bonds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bharti, Bandna; Kumar, Santosh; Kumar, Rajesh

2016-02-01

A remarkable enhancement in the hydrophilic nature of titanium dioxide (TiO2) films is obtained by surface modification in DC-glow discharge plasma. Thin transparent TiO2 films were coated on glass substrate by sol-gel dip coating method, and exposed in DC-glow discharge plasma. The plasma exposed TiO2 film exhibited a significant change in its wetting property contact angle, which is a representative of wetting property, has reduced to considerable limits 3.02° and 1.85° from its initial value 54.40° and 48.82° for deionized water and ethylene glycol, respectively. It is elucidated that the hydrophilic property of plasma exposed TiO2 films dependent mainly upon nanometer scale surface roughness. Variation, from 4.6 nm to 19.8 nm, in the film surface roughness with exposure time was observed by atomic force microscopy (AFM). Analysis of variation in the values of contact angle and surface roughness with increasing plasma exposure time reveal that the surface roughness is the main factor which makes the modified TiO2 film superhydrophilic. However, a contribution of change in the surface states, to the hydrophilic property, is also observed for small values of the plasma exposure time. Based upon nanometer scale surface roughness and dangling bonds, a variation in the surface energy of TiO2 film from 49.38 to 88.92 mJ/m2 is also observed. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) results show change in the surface states of titanium and oxygen. The observed antifogging properties are the direct results of the development of the superhydrophilic wetting characteristics to TiO2 films.

New insights into the oleate flotation response of feldspar particles of different sizes: Anisotropic adsorption model.

PubMed

Xu, Longhua; Tian, Jia; Wu, Houqin; Deng, Wei; Yang, Yaohui; Sun, Wei; Gao, Zhiyong; Hu, Yuehua

2017-11-01

The anisotropic adsorption of sodium oleate (NaOL) on feldspar surfaces was investigated to elucidate the different flotation properties of feldspar particles of four different size ranges. Microflotation experiments showed that the feldspar flotation recovery of particles with sizes spanning different ranges decreased in the order 0-19>19-38>45-75>38-45μm. Zeta potential and FTIR measurements showed that NaOL was chemically adsorbed on the Al sites of the feldspar surface. The anisotropic surface energies and broken bond densities estimated by density functional theory calculations showed that, although feldspar mostly exposed (010) and (001) surfaces, only the (001) surfaces contained the Al sites needed for NaOL adsorption. The interaction energies calculated by molecular dynamics simulations confirmed the more favorable NaOL adsorption on (001) than (010) surfaces, which may represent the main cause for the anisotropic NaOL adsorption on feldspar particles of different sizes. SEM measurements showed that the main exposed surfaces on coarse and fine feldspar particles were the side (010) and basal (001) ones, respectively. A higher fraction of Al-rich (001) surfaces is exposed on fine feldspar particles, resulting in better floatability compared with coarse particles. XPS and adsorption measurements confirmed that the Al content on the feldspar surface varied with the particle size, explaining the different NaOL flotation of feldspar particles of different sizes. Therefore, the present results suggest that coarsely ground ore should be used for the separation of feldspar gangue minerals. Further improvements in the flotation separation of feldspar from associated valuable minerals can be achieved through selective comminution or grinding processes favoring the exposure of (010) surfaces. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

l-Proline and RNA Duplex m-Value Temperature Dependence.

PubMed

Schwinefus, Jeffrey J; Baka, Nadia L; Modi, Kalpit; Billmeyer, Kaylyn N; Lu, Shutian; Haase, Lucas R; Menssen, Ryan J

2017-08-03

The temperature dependence of l-proline interactions with the RNA dodecamer duplex surface exposed after unfolding was quantified using thermal and isothermal titration denaturation monitored by uv-absorbance. The m-value quantifying proline interactions with the RNA duplex surface area exposed after unfolding was measured using RNA duplexes with GC content ranging between 17 and 83%. The m-values from thermal denaturation decreased with increasing GC content signifying increasingly favorable proline interactions with the exposed RNA surface area. However, m-values from isothermal titration denaturation at 25.0 °C were independent of GC content and less negative than those from thermal denaturation. The m-value from isothermal titration denaturation for a 50% GC RNA duplex decreased (became more negative) as the temperature increased and was in nearly exact agreement with the m-value from thermal denaturation. Since RNA duplex transition temperatures increased with GC content, the more favorable proline interactions with the high GC content duplex surface area observed from thermal denaturation resulted from the temperature dependence of proline interactions rather than the RNA surface chemical composition. The enthalpy contribution to the m-value was positive and small (indicating a slight increase in duplex unfolding enthalpy with proline) while the entropic contribution to the m-value was positive and increased with temperature. Our results will facilitate proline's use as a probe of solvent accessible surface area changes during biochemical reactions at different reaction temperatures.

Large scale analysis of protein-binding cavities using self-organizing maps and wavelet-based surface patches to describe functional properties, selectivity discrimination, and putative cross-reactivity.

PubMed

Kupas, Katrin; Ultsch, Alfred; Klebe, Gerhard

2008-05-15

A new method to discover similar substructures in protein binding pockets, independently of sequence and folding patterns or secondary structure elements, is introduced. The solvent-accessible surface of a binding pocket, automatically detected as a depression on the protein surface, is divided into a set of surface patches. Each surface patch is characterized by its shape as well as by its physicochemical characteristics. Wavelets defined on surfaces are used for the description of the shape, as they have the great advantage of allowing a comparison at different resolutions. The number of coefficients to describe the wavelets can be chosen with respect to the size of the considered data set. The physicochemical characteristics of the patches are described by the assignment of the exposed amino acid residues to one or more of five different properties determinant for molecular recognition. A self-organizing neural network is used to project the high-dimensional feature vectors onto a two-dimensional layer of neurons, called a map. To find similarities between the binding pockets, in both geometrical and physicochemical features, a clustering of the projected feature vector is performed using an automatic distance- and density-based clustering algorithm. The method was validated with a small training data set of 109 binding cavities originating from a set of enzymes covering 12 different EC numbers. A second test data set of 1378 binding cavities, extracted from enzymes of 13 different EC numbers, was then used to prove the discriminating power of the algorithm and to demonstrate its applicability to large scale analyses. In all cases, members of the data set with the same EC number were placed into coherent regions on the map, with small distances between them. Different EC numbers are separated by large distances between the feature vectors. A third data set comprising three subfamilies of endopeptidases is used to demonstrate the ability of the algorithm to detect similar substructures between functionally related active sites. The algorithm can also be used to predict the function of novel proteins not considered in training data set. 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

GPR study of a prehistoric archaeological site near Point Barrow, Alaska

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Herman, R. B.; Jensen, A. M.

2012-12-01

A ground penetrating radar (GPR) study was performed on the prehistoric Thule cemetery site near Point Barrow, Alaska. The goals of this study were (a) to test this technology in this type of polar environment, and (b) to search for burials and other archaeological features in a location in imminent danger from ocean erosion. The Nuvuk site is currently eroding at an average rate measured at over 6 m/year. Prior archaeological work at the site had recovered over 80 burials with nearly 100 individuals represented, all of which were less than 1 m below surface, and detectable with small test pits. In addition, the first coastal Ipiutak occupation known north of Point Hope had been recently discovered, at a depth of nearly 2m below surface, in the erosion face. The occupation appeared to have been terminated by a large storm which overwashed the site, leaving a strandline immediately superimposed on the living surface. After that, approximately 1.5 m of sterile gravels had been deposited before the surface on which the Thule people were living formed. Both occupations are of considerable scientific interest. The matrix at the site consists of unconsolidated beach gravels, which necessitates opening large surface areas or use of shoring to test even small units to the depths of the Ipiutak deposit (approximately 8m x 8m at the surface to test 1m x 1m at 2m depth). Such excavations promote erosion, and are very costly in terms of time and labor, so a means to detect features buried at depths greater than those exposed by shovel test pits was desirable. GPR seemed a likely candidate, but it had not been used in such conditions before, and thus it was necessary to test it thoroughly prior to relying on GPR to eliminate areas from physical testing. The GPR imaged the subsurface to a depth of 3 meters at a frequency of 500MHz. Meter-deep test pits were placed at 2-meter intervals in the survey area in a grid pattern since the efficacy of the technology had yet to be shown. The results of the test pits and the GPR were in agreement. It was anticipated that there might be few or no remaining burials in this location since the number of burials had been declining with distance from the center of the larger site. Thus it was surprising when the GPR detected an anomaly that turned out to be the deepest burial in the whole site. In fact, it was so deeply buried that the standard shovel test pitting method might not have detected it. It proved to be a very well-preserved individual, with fairly intact garments. In addition to the burial site, the GPR was used to image a number of "strandlines" as well as other deep (>1m) features in this area. These correspond in depth and orientation to two partial Ipiutak features which have been exposed and recorded in the erosion face in two separate field seasons. It was not possible to test to that depth, but subsequent coastal erosion has exposed additional strandline debris at the depth and location predicted by the GPR data. Two- and three-dimensional images of these features will be presented, along with a detailed technical description of the GPR methods used in this environment.

Vapor shielding effects on energy transfer from plasma-gun generated ELM-like transient loads to material surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kikuchi, Y.; Sakuma, I.; Asai, Y.; Onishi, K.; Isono, W.; Nakazono, T.; Nakane, M.; Fukumoto, N.; Nagata, M.

2016-02-01

Energy transfer processes from ELM-like pulsed helium (He) plasmas with a pulse duration of ˜0.1 ms to aluminum (Al) and tungsten (W) surfaces were experimentally investigated by the use of a magnetized coaxial plasma gun device. The surface absorbed energy density of the He pulsed plasma on the W surface measured with a calorimeter was ˜0.44 MJ m-2, whereas it was ˜0.15 MJ m-2 on the Al surface. A vapor layer in front of the Al surface exposed to the He pulsed plasma was clearly identified by Al neutral emission line (Al i) measured with a high time resolution spectrometer, and fast imaging with a high-speed visible camera filtered around the Al i emission line. On the other hand, no clear evaporation in front of the W surface exposed to the He pulsed plasma was observed in the present condition. Discussions on the reduction in the surface absorbed energy density on the Al surface are provided by considering the latent heat of vaporization and radiation cooling due to the Al vapor cloud.

Optical scanning apparatus

DOEpatents

Villarreal, R.A.

1985-11-06

An optical scanner employed in a radioactive environment for reading indicia imprinted about a cylindrical surface of an article by means of an optical system including metallic reflective and mirror surfaces resistant to degradation and discoloration otherwise imparted to glass surfaces exposed to radiation is described.

Helicobacter pylori Containing Only Cytoplasmic Urease Is Susceptible to Acid

PubMed Central

Krishnamurthy, Partha; Parlow, Mary; Zitzer, Jason B.; Vakil, Nimish B.; Mobley, Harry L. T.; Levy, Marilyn; Phadnis, Suhas H.; Dunn, Bruce E.

1998-01-01

Helicobacter pylori, an important etiologic agent in a variety of gastroduodenal diseases, produces large amounts of urease as an essential colonization factor. We have demonstrated previously that urease is located within the cytoplasm and on the surface of H. pylori both in vivo and in stationary-phase culture. The purpose of the present study was to assess the relative contributions of cytoplasmic and surface-localized urease to the ability of H. pylori to survive exposure to acid in the presence of urea. Toward this end, we compared the acid resistance in vitro of H. pylori cells which possessed only cytoplasmic urease to that of bacteria which possessed both cytoplasmic and surface-localized or extracellular urease. Bacteria with only cytoplasmic urease activity were generated by using freshly subcultured bacteria or by treating repeatedly subcultured H. pylori with flurofamide (1 μM), a potent, but poorly diffusible urease inhibitor. H. pylori with cytoplasmic and surface-located urease activity survived in an acid environment when 5 mM urea was present. In contrast, H. pylori with only cytoplasmic urease shows significantly reduced survival when exposed to acid in the presence of 5 mM urea. Similarly, Escherichia coli SE5000 expressing H. pylori urease and the Ni2+ transport protein NixA, which expresses cytoplasmic urease activity at levels similar to those in wild-type H. pylori, survived minimally when exposed to acid in the presence of 5 to 50 mM urea. We conclude that cytoplasmic urease activity alone is not sufficient (although cytoplasmic urease activity is likely to be necessary) to allow survival of H. pylori in acid; the activity of surface-localized urease is essential for resistance of H. pylori to acid under the assay conditions used. Therefore, the mechanism whereby urease becomes associated with the surface of H. pylori, which involves release of the enzyme from bacteria due to autolysis followed by adsorption of the enzyme to the surface of intact bacteria (“altruistic autolysis”), is essential for survival of H. pylori in an acid environment. The ability of H. pylori to survive exposure to low pH is likely to depend on a combination of both cytoplasmic and surface-associated urease activities. PMID:9784504

Effects of orbital exposure on Halar during the LDEF mission

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brower, William E., Jr.; Holla, Harish; Bauer, Robert A.

1992-01-01

Thermomechanical Analysis (TMA), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) were performed on samples of Halar exposed on the LDEF Mission for 6 years in orbit and unexposed Halar control samples. Sections 10-100 microns thick were removed from the exposed surface down to a depth of 1,000 microns through the 3 mm thick samples. The TMA and DSC results, which arise from the entire slice and not just its surface, showed no differences between the LDEF and the control samples. TMA scans were run from ambient to 300 C; results were compared by a tabulation of the glass transition temperatures. DSC scans were run from ambient to 700 C; the enthalpy of melting was compared for the samples as a function of section depth with the sample. The TGA results, which arise from the surface of the sample initially, showed a sharp increase in the topmost 50 micron section (the exposed, discolored side) in the weight loss of 170 C in oxygen. This weight loss dropped to bulk values in the range of depth of 50-200 microns. The control sample showed only a slight increase in weight loss as the top surface was approached. The LDEF Halar sample appears to be mechanically undamaged, with a surface layer which oxidizes faster as a result of orbital exposure.

Electron microscope observations of impact crater debris amongst contaminating particulates on materials surfaces exposed in space in low-Earth orbit

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Murr, L. E.; Rivas, J. M.; Quinones, S.; Niou, C.-S.; Advani, A. H.; Marquez, B.

1993-01-01

Debris particles extracted from a small sampling region on the leading edge of the Long Duration Exposure Facility (LDEF) spacecraft have been examined by analytical transmission electron microscopy and the elemental frequency observed by energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry and compared with upper atmosphere (Earth) particle elemental frequency and the average elemental compositions of interplanetary dust particles. A much broader elemental distribution was observed for the exposed spacecraft surface debris milieu. Numerous metal microfragment analyses, particularly aluminum and stainless steel, were compared with scanning electron microscope observations-of impact crater features, and the corresponding elemental spectra on selected LDEF aluminium tray clamps and stainless steel bolts. The compositions and melt features for these impact craters and ejecta have been shown to be consistent with microcrystalline debris fragments in the case of aluminum, and these observations suggest an ever changing debris milieu on exposed surfaces for space craft and space system materials.

Study of zinc-induced changes in lymphocyte membranes using atomic force microscopy, luminescence, and light scattering methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Filimonenko, D. S.; Khairullina, A. Ya.; Yasinskii, V. M.; Kozlova, N. M.; Zubritskaja, G. P.; Slobozhanina, E. I.

2011-07-01

Changes in the surface structure of lymphocyte membranes exposed to various concentrations of zinc ions are studied. It is found by atomic force microscopy that increasing the concentration of zinc ions leads to a reduction in the correlation length of the autocorrelation function of the roughness profile of a lymphocyte compared to control samples; this may indicate the existence of fine structure in the membrane surface. Fluorescence markers are used to observe a reduction in the microviscosity of the lipids in the outer monolayer of the lipid bilayer after lymphocytes are exposed to Zn ions, as well as the exposure of phosphatidylserine on the surface membrane, and the oxidation of HS-groups of membrane proteins. Calculations of the absorption coefficients of lymphocytes modified with zinc reveal the existence of absorption bands owing to the formation of metal-protein complexes and zinc oxide nanoparticles. These results indicate significant changes in the structural and functional state of lymphocyte membranes exposed to zinc ions.

Effects of commercial aircraft operating environment on composite materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chapman, A. J.; Hoffman, D. J.; Hodges, W. T.

1980-01-01

Long term effects of commercial aircraft operating environment on the properties and durability of composite materials are being systematically explored. Composite specimens configured for various mechanical property tests are exposed to environmental conditions on aircraft in scheduled airline service, on racks at major airports, and to controlled environmental conditions in the laboratory. Results of tests following these exposures will identify critical parameters affecting composite durability, and correlation of the data will aid in developing methods for predicting durability. Interim results of these studies show that mass change of composite specimens on commercial aircraft depends upon the regional climate and season, and that mass loss from composite surfaces due to ultraviolet radiation can be largely prevented by aircraft paint.

Crater Rim Layers, Rubble, and Gullies

NASA Image and Video Library

2017-08-07

This observation from NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter shows a close view of the rim and upper wall of an impact crater on the Martian surface. The layers in enhanced color are exposed subsurface strata that are relatively resistant to erosion. Boulder-like rubble beyond the crater rim is scattered down the wall of the crater (down-slope is toward the lower left of the image). Another feature of interest to Mars scientists is a large gully roughly 100 meters across. These gullies may have formed when water from melted ice on the crater walls, or from groundwater within the walls, assisted in transporting eroding material downslope. https://photojournal.jpl.nasa.gov/catalog/PIA21870

Structure and Function of the Haemophilus influenzae Autotransporters

PubMed Central

Spahich, Nicole A.; St. Geme, Joseph W.

2011-01-01

Autotransporters are a large class of proteins that are found in the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria and are almost universally implicated in virulence. These proteins consist of a C-terminal β-domain that is embedded in the outer membrane and an N-terminal domain that is exposed on the bacterial surface and is endowed with effector function. In this article, we review and compare the structural and functional characteristics of the Haemophilus influenzae IgA1 protease and Hap monomeric autotransporters and the H. influenzae Hia and Hsf trimeric autotransporters. All of these proteins play a role in colonization of the upper respiratory tract and in the pathogenesis of H. influenzae disease. PMID:22919571

Bacterial diversity in a glacier foreland of the high Arctic.

PubMed

Schütte, Ursel M E; Abdo, Zaid; Foster, James; Ravel, Jacques; Bunge, John; Solheim, Bjørn; Forney, Larry J

2010-03-01

Over the past 100 years, Arctic temperatures have increased at almost twice the global average rate. One consequence is the acceleration of glacier retreat, exposing new habitats that are colonized by microorganisms whose diversity and function are unknown. Here, we characterized bacterial diversity along two approximately parallel chronosequences in an Arctic glacier forefield that span six time points following glacier retreat. We assessed changes in phylotype richness, evenness and turnover rate through the analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequences recovered from 52 samples taken from surface layers along the chronosequences. An average of 4500 sequences was obtained from each sample by 454 pyrosequencing. Using parametric methods, it was estimated that bacterial phylotype richness was high, and that it increased significantly from an average of 4000 (at a threshold of 97% sequence similarity) at locations exposed for 5 years to an average of 7050 phylotypes per 0.5 g of soil at sites that had been exposed for 150 years. Phylotype evenness also increased over time, with an evenness of 0.74 for 150 years since glacier retreat reflecting large proportions of rare phylotypes. The bacterial species turnover rate was especially high between sites exposed for 5 and 19 years. The level of bacterial diversity present in this High Arctic glacier foreland was comparable with that found in temperate and tropical soils, raising the question whether global patterns of bacterial species diversity parallel that of plants and animals, which have been found to form a latitudinal gradient and be lower in polar regions compared with the tropics.

Optically transparent and environmentally durable superhydrophobic coating based on functionalized SiO 2 nanoparticles

DOE PAGES

Schaeffer, Daniel A.; Polizos, Georgios; Smith, D. Barton; ...

2015-01-09

Optical surfaces such as mirrors and windows that are exposed to outdoor environmental conditions are susceptible to dust buildup and water condensation. The application of transparent superhydrophobic coatings on optical surfaces can improve outdoor performance via a self-cleaning effect similar to the Lotus effect. The contact angle (CA) of water droplets on a typical hydrophobic flat surface varies from 100° to 120°. Adding roughness or microtexture to a hydrophobic surface leads to an enhancement of hydrophobicity and the CA can be increased to a value in the range of 16≥0° to 175°. This result is remarkable because such behavior cannotmore » be explained using surface chemistry alone. When surface features are on the order of 100 nm or smaller, surfaces exhibit superhydrophobic behavior and maintain their optical transparency. In this work we discuss our results on transparent superhydrophobic coatings that can be applied across large surface areas. We have used functionalized silica nanoparticles to coat various optical elements and have measured the contact angle and optical transmission between 190 to 1100 nm on these elements. The functionalized silica nanoparticles were dissolved in a solution of the solvents isopropyl alcohol and 4-chlorobenzotrifluoride (PCBTF) and a proprietary ceramic binder (Cerakote ). Finally, this solution was spin-coated onto a variety of test glass substrates, and following a curing period of about 30 minutes, these coatings exhibited superhydrophobic behavior with a static CA ≥160°.« less

Comprehensive 3D-modeling of allergenic proteins and amino acid composition of potential conformational IgE epitopes

PubMed Central

Oezguen, Numan; Zhou, Bin; Negi, Surendra S.; Ivanciuc, Ovidiu; Schein, Catherine H.; Labesse, Gilles; Braun, Werner

2008-01-01

Similarities in sequences and 3D structures of allergenic proteins provide vital clues to identify clinically relevant IgE cross-reactivities. However, experimental 3D structures are available in the Protein Data Bank for only 5% (45/829) of all allergens catalogued in the Structural Database of Allergenic Proteins (SDAP, http://fermi.utmb.edu/SDAP). Here, an automated procedure was used to prepare 3D-models of all allergens where there was no experimentally determined 3D structure or high identity (95%) to another protein of known 3D structure. After a final selection by quality criteria, 433 reliable 3D models were retained and are available from our SDAP Website. The new 3D models extensively enhance our knowledge of allergen structures. As an example of their use, experimentally derived “continuous IgE epitopes” were mapped on 3 experimentally determined structures and 13 of our 3D-models of allergenic proteins. Large portions of these continuous sequences are not entirely on the surface and therefore cannot interact with IgE or other proteins. Only the surface exposed residues are constituents of “conformational IgE epitopes” which are not in all cases continuous in sequence. The surface exposed parts of the experimental determined continuous IgE epitopes showed a distinct statistical distribution as compared to their presence in typical protein-protein interfaces. The amino acids Ala, Ser, Asn, Gly and particularly Lys have a high propensity to occur in IgE binding sites. The 3D-models will facilitate further analysis of the common properties of IgE binding sites of allergenic proteins. PMID:18621419

Temperature decline thermography for laminar-turbulent transition detection in aerodynamics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

von Hoesslin, Stefan; Stadlbauer, Martin; Gruendmayer, Juergen; Kähler, Christian J.

2017-09-01

Detailed knowledge about laminar-turbulent transition and heat transfer distribution of flows around complex aerodynamic components are crucial to achieve highest efficiencies in modern aerodynamical systems. Several measurement techniques have been developed to determine those parameters either quantitatively or qualitatively. Most of them require extensive instrumentation or give unreliable results as the boundary conditions are often not known with the required precision. This work introduces the simple and robust temperature decline method to qualitatively detect the laminar-turbulent transition and the respective heat transfer coefficients on a surface exposed to an air flow, according to patent application Stadlbauer et al. (Patentnr. WO2014198251 A1, 2014). This method provides results which are less sensitive to control parameters such as the heat conduction into the blade material and temperature inhomogeneities in the flow or blade. This method was applied to measurements with NACA0018 airfoils exposed to the flow of a calibration-free jet at various Reynolds numbers and angles of attack. For data analysis, a post-processing method was developed and qualified to determine a quantity proportional to the heat transfer coefficient into the flow. By plotting this quantity for each pixel of the surface, a qualitative, two-dimensional heat transfer map was obtained. The results clearly depicted the areas of onset and end of transition over the full span of the model and agreed with the expected behavior based on the respective flow condition. To validate the approach, surface hotfilm measurements were conducted simultaneously on the same NACA profile. Both techniques showed excellent agreement. The temperature decline method allows to visualize laminar-turbulent transitions on static or moving parts and can be applied on a very broad range of scales—from tiny airfoils up to large airplane wings.

Strain corrosion cracking in rpm sewer piping

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

Hopkins, S.W.; Wachob, H.F.; Duffner, D.H.

1993-12-31

Long term, aggressive environmental exposure can result in localized failure of large diameter, glass reinforced plastic mortar (RPM) piping. In order to evaluate the performance of the liner and glass reinforced matrix polyester resin, accelerated strain corrosion tests were performed on samples of RPM piping that had already experienced almost 15 years of service. To assess the sensitivity of RPM pipe to acidic environments and to correlate the fractography of the laboratory produced failures with the excavated crack, short segments of 8-inch and 48-inch diameter piping were statically loaded to produce various known surface strains. After preloading the specimens tomore » fixed strain levels, these samples were then exposed to sulfuric acid solutions having pH values of 2.7 and 4.7 and monitored as a function of time until failure. The resulting lifetimes were related to initial surface strains and showed a decreasing logarithmic relationship. Fractographic examination of the excavated crack revealed the typical strain corrosion fractography of glass fibers after almost a 1000 hour exposure at 1.3 % strain; similar fractographic observations were obtained from failed laboratory samples. At shorter times, failure appeared to be overload in nature and exhibited little, if any, timedependent fracture features. Fractographic examination of the excavated crack strongly indicated that the crack had been present for a significant time. The extremely aggressive environment had totally dissolved the exposed glass reinforcement. Based on the laboratory strain corrosion performance, the nature of the contained cracking, and fractography of the failed surface, cracking of the excavated RPM pipe was believed to be the result of an early overload failure that subsequently propagated slowly via strain corrosion in an extremely aggressive environment.« less

Ganoderma-Like MoS2 /NiS2 with Single Platinum Atoms Doping as an Efficient and Stable Hydrogen Evolution Reaction Catalyst.

PubMed

Guan, Yongxin; Feng, Yangyang; Wan, Jing; Yang, Xiaohui; Fang, Ling; Gu, Xiao; Liu, Ruirui; Huang, Zhengyong; Li, Jian; Luo, Jun; Li, Changming; Wang, Yu

2018-05-27

Herein, a unique ganoderma-like MoS 2 /NiS 2 hetero-nanostructure with isolated Pt atoms anchored is reported. This novel ganoderma-like heterostructure can not only efficiently disperse and confine the few-layer MoS 2 nanosheets to fully expose the edge sites of MoS 2 , and provide more opportunity to capture the Pt atoms, but also tune the electronic structure to modify the catalytic activity. Because of the favorable dispersibility and exposed large specific surface area, single Pt atoms can be easily anchored on MoS 2 nanosheets with ultrahigh loading of 1.8 at% (the highest is 1.3 at% to date). Owing to the ganoderma-like structure and platinum atoms doping, this catalyst shows Pt-like catalytic activity for the hydrogen evolution reaction with an ultralow overpotential of 34 mV and excellent durability of only 2% increase in overpotential for 72 h under the constant current density of 10 mA cm -2 . © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

A waterborne outbreak of Escherichia coli O157:H7 infections and hemolytic uremic syndrome: implications for rural water systems.

PubMed

Olsen, Sonja J; Miller, Gayle; Breuer, Thomas; Kennedy, Malinda; Higgins, Charles; Walford, Jim; McKee, Gary; Fox, Kim; Bibb, William; Mead, Paul

2002-04-01

In the summer of 1998, a large outbreak of Escherichia coli O157:H7 infections occurred in Alpine, Wyoming. We identified 157 ill persons; stool from 71 (45%) yielded E. coli O157:H7. In two cohort studies, illness was significantly associated with drinking municipal water (town residents: adjusted odds ratio=10.1, 95% confidence intervals [CI]=1.8-56.4; visitors attending family reunion: relative risk=9.0, 95% CI=1.3-63.3). The unchlorinated water supply had microbiologic evidence of fecal organisms and the potential for chronic contamination with surface water. Among persons exposed to water, the attack rate was significantly lower in town residents than in visitors (23% vs. 50%, p<0.01) and decreased with increasing age. The lower attack rate among exposed residents, especially adults, is consistent with the acquisition of partial immunity following long-term exposure. Serologic data, although limited, may support this finding. Contamination of small, unprotected water systems may be an increasing public health risk.

A Waterborne Outbreak of Escherichia coli O157:H7 Infections and Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome: Implications for Rural Water Systems1

PubMed Central

Miller, Gayle; Breuer, Thomas; Kennedy, Malinda; Higgins, Charles; Walford, Jim; McKee, Gary; Fox, Kim; Bibb, William; Mead, Paul

2002-01-01

In the summer of 1998, a large outbreak of Escherichia coli O157:H7 infections occurred in Alpine, Wyoming. We identified 157 ill persons; stool from 71 (45%) yielded E. coli O157:H7. In two cohort studies, illness was significantly associated with drinking municipal water (town residents: adjusted odds ratio=10.1, 95% confidence intervals [CI]=1.8-56.4; visitors attending family reunion: relative risk=9.0, 95% CI=1.3-63.3). The unchlorinated water supply had microbiologic evidence of fecal organisms and the potential for chronic contamination with surface water. Among persons exposed to water, the attack rate was significantly lower in town residents than in visitors (23% vs. 50%, p<0.01) and decreased with increasing age. The lower attack rate among exposed residents, especially adults, is consistent with the acquisition of partial immunity following long-term exposure. Serologic data, although limited, may support this finding. Contamination of small, unprotected water systems may be an increasing public health risk. PMID:11971769

Effects of crystalloid on lung fluid balance after smoke inhalation.

PubMed Central

Clark, W R; Nieman, G F; Goyette, D; Gryzboski, D

1988-01-01

Inhalation injury occurs in 21% of flame burn victims who require large fluid volumes for resuscitation and have a mortality rate greater than 30%. This study was done to determine how vulnerable the smoke-injured lung is to fluid accumulation when crystalloids are infused rapidly. Mongrel dogs were exposed to smoke and 10% body-weight Ringer's lactate in three groups: (I) fluid only, (II) smoke only, and (III) smoke and fluid. The increase in wet-dry lung weight ratio was 2% in Group I, 28% in Group II, and 42% in Group III, consistent with pulmonary edema present only in Group III. The decrease in colloid oncotic pressure was similar in both of the groups that were given fluid, and the rise in the surface tension minimum of lung extracts was similar in both of the groups that were exposed to smoke. The smoke-injured lung loses the ability to protect itself when challenged with fluid. Reduced oncotic pressure is not responsible. Changes in microvascular pressure, endothelial and epithelial damage, and surfactant inactivation interact to cause this increase in extravascular lung water. PMID:3389945

Year-to-year instability of the Mars south polar cap

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jakosky, Bruce M.; Haberle, Robert M.

1990-01-01

Models of the Mars polar cap energy balance suggest that the south cap has two possible configurations at the current epoch. It can be covered all year by CO2 frost, as was observed by the Viking spacecraft, or the CO2 frost can disappear at midsummer to expose an underlying surface. The difference between the two states depends on the role of energy conducted into the subsurface. If the cap was exposed the previous year, conducted energy will cause less CO2 frost to condense in winter, and the frost will disappear completely in summer. If the cap was covered the previous year, there will be no conducted energy, and it will stay covered again. Subtle effects in the atmosphere can perturb the cap energy balance sufficiently to cause the cap to jump between states. This behavior might provide an explanation for the large southern summer water vapor abundances observed in 1969. It also explains the observed differences between the north and the south residual caps as resulting in part from a difference in the role in the annual energy balance of energy conducted into the subsurface.

He bubble growth and interaction in W nano-tendrils

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smirnov, R. D.; Krasheninnikov, S. I.

2015-11-01

Tungsten plasma-facing components (PFCs) in fusion devices are exposed to variety of extreme plasma conditions, which can lead to alteration of tungsten micro-structure and degradation of the PFCs. In particular, it is known that filamentary nano-structures called fuzz can grow on helium plasma exposed tungsten surfaces. However, mechanism of the fuzz growth is still not fully understood. Existing experimental observations indicate that formation of helium nano-bubbles in tungsten plays essential role in fuzz formation and growth. In this work we investigate mechanisms of growth and interaction of helium bubbles in fuzz-like nano-tendrils using molecular dynamics simulations with LAMMPS code. We show that growth of the bubbles has anisotropic character producing complex stress field in the nano-tendrils with distinct compression and tension regions. We found that formation of large inter-bubble tension regions can cause lateral stretching and bending of the tendrils that consequently lead to their elongation and thinning at the stretching sites. The rate of nano-tendril growth due to the described mechanism is also evaluated from the simulations.

LIDAR Helps Identify Source of 1872 Earthquake Near Chelan, Washington

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sherrod, B. L.; Blakely, R. J.; Weaver, C. S.

2015-12-01

One of the largest historic earthquakes in the Pacific Northwest occurred on 15 December 1872 (M6.5-7) near the south end of Lake Chelan in north-central Washington State. Lack of recognized surface deformation suggested that the earthquake occurred on a blind, perhaps deep, fault. New LiDAR data show landslides and a ~6 km long, NW-side-up scarp in Spencer Canyon, ~30 km south of Lake Chelan. Two landslides in Spencer Canyon impounded small ponds. An historical account indicated that dead trees were visible in one pond in AD1884. Wood from a snag in the pond yielded a calibrated age of AD1670-1940. Tree ring counts show that the oldest living trees on each landslide are 130 and 128 years old. The larger of the two landslides obliterated the scarp and thus, post-dates the last scarp-forming event. Two trenches across the scarp exposed a NW-dipping thrust fault. One trench exposed alluvial fan deposits, Mazama ash, and scarp colluvium cut by a single thrust fault. Three charcoal samples from a colluvium buried during the last fault displacement had calibrated ages between AD1680 and AD1940. The second trench exposed gneiss thrust over colluvium during at least two, and possibly three fault displacements. The younger of two charcoal samples collected from a colluvium below gneiss had a calibrated age of AD1665- AD1905. For an historical constraint, we assume that the lack of felt reports for large earthquakes in the period between 1872 and today indicates that no large earthquakes capable of rupturing the ground surface occurred in the region after the 1872 earthquake; thus the last displacement on the Spencer Canyon scarp cannot post-date the 1872 earthquake. Modeling of the age data suggests that the last displacement occurred between AD1840 and AD1890. These data, combined with the historical record, indicate that this fault is the source of the 1872 earthquake. Analyses of aeromagnetic data reveal lithologic contacts beneath the scarp that form an ENE-striking, curvilinear zone ~2.5 km wide and ~55 km long. This zone coincides with monoclines mapped in Mesozoic bedrock and Miocene flood basalts. This study ends uncertainty regarding the source of the 1872 earthquake and provides important information for seismic hazard analyses of major infrastructure projects in Washington and British Columbia.

Embrittlement of MISSE 5 Polymers After 13 Months of Space Exposure

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Guo, Aobo; Yi, Grace T.; Ashmead, Claire C.; Mitchell, Gianna G.; deGroh, Kim K.

2012-01-01

Understanding space environment induced degradation of spacecraft materials is essential when designing durable and stable spacecraft components. As a result of space radiation, debris impacts, atomic oxygen interaction, and thermal cycling, the outer surfaces of space materials degrade when exposed to low Earth orbit (LEO). The objective of this study was to measure the embrittlement of 37 thin film polymers after LEO space exposure. The polymers were flown aboard the International Space Station and exposed to the LEO space environment as part of the Materials International Space Station Experiment 5 (MISSE 5). The samples were flown in a nadir-facing position for 13 months and were exposed to thermal cycling along with low doses of atomic oxygen, direct solar radiation and omnidirectional charged particle radiation. The samples were analyzed for space-induced embrittlement using a bend-test procedure in which the strain necessary to induce surface cracking was determined. Bend-testing was conducted using successively smaller mandrels to apply a surface strain to samples placed on a semi-suspended pliable platform. A pristine sample was also tested for each flight sample. Eighteen of the 37 flight samples experienced some degree of surface cracking during bend-testing, while none of the pristine samples experienced any degree of cracking. The results indicate that 49 percent of the MISSE 5 thin film polymers became embrittled in the space environment even though they were exposed to low doses (approx.2.75 krad (Si) dose through 127 mm Kapton) of ionizing radiation.

Clinical use and material wear of polymeric tracheostomy tubes.

PubMed

Björling, Gunilla; Axelsson, Sara; Johansson, Unn-Britt; Lysdahl, Michael; Markström, Agneta; Schedin, Ulla; Aune, Ragnhild E; Frostell, Claes; Karlsson, Sigbritt

2007-09-01

The objectives were to compare the duration of use of polymeric tracheostomy tubes, i.e., silicone (Si), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polyurethane (PU), and to determine whether surface changes in the materials could be observed after 30 days of patient use. Data were collected from patient and technical records for all tracheostomized patients attending the National Respiratory Center in Sweden. In the surface study, 19 patients with long-term tracheostomy were included: six with Bivona TTS Si tubes, eight with Shiley PVC tubes, and five with Trachoe Twist PU tubes. All tubes were exposed in the trachea for 30 days before being analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR). New tubes and tubes exposed in phosphate-buffered saline were used as reference. Si tubes are used for longer periods of time than those made of PVC (P<.0001) and PU (P=.021). In general, all polymeric tubes were used longer than the recommended 30-day period. Eighteen of the 19 tubes exposed in patients demonstrated, in one or more areas of the tube, evident surface changes. The morphologic changes identified by SEM correlate well with the results obtained by ATR-FTIR. Si tracheostomy tubes are in general used longer than those made of PVC and PU. Most of the tubes exposed in the trachea for 30 days suffered evident surface changes, with degradation of the polymeric chains as a result.

Wrinkling and Folding on Patched Elastic Surfaces: Modulation of the Chemistry and Pattern Size of Microwrinkled Surfaces.

PubMed

Nogales, Aurora; Del Campo, Adolfo; Ezquerra, Tiberio A; Rodriguez-Hernández, Juan

2017-06-14

An unconventional strategy is proposed that takes advantage of localized high-deformation areas, referred to as folded wrinkles, to produce microstructured elastic surfaces with precisely controlled pattern dimensions and chemical distribution. For that purpose, elastic PDMS substrates were prestretched to a different extent and oxidized in particular areas using a mask. When the stretching was removed, the PDMS substrate exhibited out-of-plane deformations that largely depend on the applied prestretching. Prestretchings below 100% lead to affine deformations in which the treated areas are buckled. On the contrary, prestretchings above ε >100% prior to surface treatment induce the formation of folded wrinkles on those micrometer-size ultraviolet-ozone (UVO) treated areas upon relaxation. As a result, dual periodic wrinkles were formed due to the alternation of highly deformed (folded) and low deformed (buckled) areas. Our strategy is based on the surface treatment at precise positions upon prestretching of the elastic substrate (PDMS). Additionally, this approach can be used to template the formation of wrinkled surfaces by alternating lines of folded wrinkles (valleys) and low-deformed areas (hills). This effect allowed us to precisely tune the shape and distribution of the UVO exposed areas by varying the prestretching direction. Moreover, the wrinkle characteristics, including period and amplitude, exhibit a direct relation to the dimensions of the patterns present in the mask.

The Effect of Multiple Surface Treatments on Biological Properties of Ti-6Al-4V Alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Parsikia, Farhang; Amini, Pupak; Asgari, Sirous

2014-09-01

In this research, the effect of various surface treatments including laser processing, grit blasting and anodizing on chemical structure, surface topography, and bioactivity of Ti-6Al-4V was investigated. Six groups of samples were prepared by a combination of two alternative laser processes, grit blasting and anodizing. Selected samples were first evaluated using microanalysis techniques and contact roughness testing and were then exposed to in vitro environment. Scanning electron microscopy was used to characterize the corresponding final surface morphologies. Weight measurement and atomic absorption tests were employed for determination of bioactivity limits of different surface conditions. Based on the data obtained in this study, low-energy laser processing generally yields a better biological response. The maximum bioactivity was attained in those samples exposed to a three step treatment including low-energy laser treatment followed by grit blasting and anodizing.

Cell surface differences of Naegleria fowleri and Naegleria lovaniensis exposed with surface markers.

PubMed

González-Robles, Arturo; Castañón, Guadalupe; Cristóbal-Ramos, Ana Ruth; Hernández-Ramírez, Verónica Ivonne; Omaña-Molina, Maritza; Martínez-Palomo, Adolfo

2007-12-01

Differences in the distribution of diverse cell surface coat markers were found between Naegleria fowleri and Naegleria lovaniensis. The presence of carbohydrate-containing components in the cell coat of the two species was detected by selective staining with ruthenium red and alcian blue. Using both markers, N. fowleri presented a thicker deposit than N. lovaniensis. The existence of exposed mannose or glucose residues was revealed by discriminatory agglutination with the plant lectin Concanavalin A. These sugar residues were also visualized at the cell surface of these parasites either by transmission electron microscopy or by fluorescein-tagged Concanavalin A. Using this lectin cap formation was induced only in N. fowleri. The anionic sites on the cell surface detected by means of cationized ferritin were more apparent in N. fowleri. Biotinylation assays confirmed that even though the two amoebae species have some analogous plasma membrane proteins, there is a clear difference in their composition.

EFFECT OF AN ACID RAIN ENVIRONMENT ON LIMESTONE SURFACES.

USGS Publications Warehouse

Mossotti, Victor G.; Lindsay, James R.; Hochella, Michael F.

1987-01-01

Salem limestone samples were exposed to weathering for 1 y in several urban and one rural environments. Samples exposed in the rural location were chemically indistinguishable from the freshly quarried limestone, whereas all samples collected from urban exposure sites developed gypsum stains on the ground-facing surfaces where the stones were not washed by precipitation. The gas-solid reaction of SO//2 with calcite was selected for detailed consideration. It appears from the model that under arid conditions, the quantity of stain deposited on an unwashed surface is independent of atmospheric SO//2 concentration once the surface has been saturated with gypsum. Under wet conditions, surface sulfation and weight loss are probably dominated by mechanisms involving wet stone. However, if the rain events are frequent and delimited by periods of dryness, the quantity of gypsum produced by a gas-solid reaction mechanism should correlate with both the frequency of rain events and the atmospheric SO//2 level.

Investigation of transient melting of tungsten by ELMs in ASDEX Upgrade

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krieger, K.; Sieglin, B.; Balden, M.; Coenen, J. W.; Göths, B.; Laggner, F.; de Marne, P.; Matthews, G. F.; Nille, D.; Rohde, V.; Dejarnac, R.; Faitsch, M.; Giannone, L.; Herrmann, A.; Horacek, J.; Komm, M.; Pitts, R. A.; Ratynskaia, S.; Thoren, E.; Tolias, P.; ASDEX-Upgrade Team; EUROfusion MST1 Team

2017-12-01

Repetitive melting of tungsten by power transients originating from edge localized modes (ELMs) has been studied in the tokamak experiment ASDEX Upgrade. Tungsten samples were exposed to H-mode discharges at the outer divertor target plate using the Divertor Manipulator II system. The exposed sample was designed with an elevated sloped surface inclined against the incident magnetic field to increase the projected parallel power flux to a level were transient melting by ELMs would occur. Sample exposure was controlled by moving the outer strike point to the sample location. As extension to previous melt studies in the new experiment both the current flow from the sample to vessel potential and the local surface temperature were measured with sufficient time resolution to resolve individual ELMs. The experiment provided for the first time a direct link of current flow and surface temperature during transient ELM events. This allows to further constrain the MEMOS melt motion code predictions and to improve the validation of its underlying model assumptions. Post exposure ex situ analysis of the retrieved samples confirms the decreased melt motion observed at shallower magnetic field line to surface angles compared to that at leading edges exposed to the parallel power flux.

Edge profiles and limiter tests in Extrap T2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bergsåker, H.; Hedin, G.; Ilyinsky, L.; Larsson, D.; Möller, A.

New edge profile measurements, including calorimetric measurements of the parallel heat flux, were made in Extrap T2. Test limiters of pure molybdenum and the TZM molybdenum alloy have been exposed in the edge plasma. The surface damage was studied, mainly by microscopy. Tungsten coated graphite probes were also exposed, and the surfaces were studied by microscopy, ion beam analysis and XPS. In this case cracking and mixing of carbon and tungsten at the interface was observed in the most heated areas, whereas carbide formation at the surface was seen in less heated areas. In these tests pure Mo generally fared better than TZM, and thin and cleaner coatings fared better than thicker and less clean.

MORPH-II, a software package for the analysis of scanning-electron-micrograph images for the assessment of the fractal dimension of exposed stone surfaces

USGS Publications Warehouse

Mossotti, Victor G.; Eldeeb, A. Raouf

2000-01-01

Turcotte, 1997, and Barton and La Pointe, 1995, have identified many potential uses for the fractal dimension in physicochemical models of surface properties. The image-analysis program described in this report is an extension of the program set MORPH-I (Mossotti and others, 1998), which provided the fractal analysis of electron-microscope images of pore profiles (Mossotti and Eldeeb, 1992). MORPH-II, an integration of the modified kernel of the program MORPH-I with image calibration and editing facilities, was designed to measure the fractal dimension of the exposed surfaces of stone specimens as imaged in cross section in an electron microscope.

Biological Surface Coating and Molting Inhibition as Mechanisms of TiO2 Nanoparticle Toxicity in Daphnia magna

PubMed Central

Dabrunz, André; Duester, Lars; Prasse, Carsten; Seitz, Frank; Rosenfeldt, Ricki; Schilde, Carsten; Schaumann, Gabriele E.; Schulz, Ralf

2011-01-01

The production and use of nanoparticles (NP) has steadily increased within the last decade; however, knowledge about risks of NP to human health and ecosystems is still scarce. Common knowledge concerning NP effects on freshwater organisms is largely limited to standard short-term (≤48 h) toxicity tests, which lack both NP fate characterization and an understanding of the mechanisms underlying toxicity. Employing slightly longer exposure times (72 to 96 h), we found that suspensions of nanosized (∼100 nm initial mean diameter) titanium dioxide (nTiO2) led to toxicity in Daphnia magna at nominal concentrations of 3.8 (72-h EC50) and 0.73 mg/L (96-h EC50). However, nTiO2 disappeared quickly from the ISO-medium water phase, resulting in toxicity levels as low as 0.24 mg/L (96-h EC50) based on measured concentrations. Moreover, we showed that nTiO2 (∼100 nm) is significantly more toxic than non-nanosized TiO2 (∼200 nm) prepared from the same stock suspension. Most importantly, we hypothesized a mechanistic chain of events for nTiO2 toxicity in D. magna that involves the coating of the organism surface with nTiO2 combined with a molting disruption. Neonate D. magna (≤6 h) exposed to 2 mg/L nTiO2 exhibited a “biological surface coating” that disappeared within 36 h, during which the first molting was successfully managed by 100% of the exposed organisms. Continued exposure up to 96 h led to a renewed formation of the surface coating and significantly reduced the molting rate to 10%, resulting in 90% mortality. Because coating of aquatic organisms by manmade NP might be ubiquitous in nature, this form of physical NP toxicity might result in widespread negative impacts on environmental health. PMID:21647422

Differential exposure, duration, and sensitivity of unionoidean bivalve life stages to environmental contaminants

USGS Publications Warehouse

Cope, W.G.; Bringolf, R.B.; Buchwalter, D.B.; Newton, T.J.; Ingersoll, C.G.; Wang, N.; Augspurger, T.; Dwyer, F.J.; Barnhart, M.C.; Neves, R.J.; Hammer, E.

2008-01-01

Freshwater mussels (superfamily Unionoidea) are in serious global decline and in urgent need of protection and conservation. The declines have been attributed to a wide array of human activities resulting in pollution and water-quality degradation, and habitat destruction and alteration. Linkages among poor water quality, pollutant sources, and mussel decline in rivers and streams have been associated with results of laboratory-based tests of specific pollutants. However, uncertainties remain about the relationship of laboratory data to actual contaminant exposure routes for various mussel species, life stages, and in the habitats occupied during these exposures. We evaluated the pathways of exposure to environmental pollutants for all 4 life stages (free glochidia, encysted glochidia, juveniles, adults) of unionoidean mussels and found that each life stage has both common and unique characteristics that contribute to observed differences in exposure and sensitivity. Free glochidia typically are exposed only briefly (e.g., seconds to days) through surface water, whereas adults sustain exposure over years to decades through surface water, pore water, sediment, and diet. Juveniles live largely burrowed in the sediment for the first 0 to 4 y of life. Thus, sediment, pore water, and diet are the predominant exposure routes for this life stage, but surface water also might contribute to exposure during certain periods and environmental conditions. The obligate parasitic stage (encysted glochidia stage) on a host fish might be exposed from surface water while partially encysted or from toxicants in host-fish tissue while fully encysted. Laboratory methods for testing for acute and chronic exposures in water have advanced, and toxicant-specific information has increased in recent years. However, additional research is needed to understand interactions of life history, habitat, and long-term exposure to contaminants through water, pore water, sediment, and diet so that the risks of environmental exposures can be properly assessed and managed. ?? 2008 by The North American Benthological Society.

An Investigation of Concrete Deterioration at South Florida Water Management District Structure S65E

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-02-01

24 Figure 19. SEM micrographs of deterioration observed on fracture surface including borehole near exposed surface and transition between...photomicrographs of repaired concrete surface. ........................................ 36 Figure A6. Supplemental photomicrographs of fractured sample...38 Figure B1. Supplemental SEM micrographs of inner non-deteriorated concrete fracture surface

Response of Tropical Forests to Intense Climate Variability and Rainfall Anomaly over the Last Decade

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saatchi, S.; Asefi, S.

2012-04-01

During the last decade, strong precipitation anomalies resulted from increased sea surface temperature in the tropical Atlantic, have caused extensive drying trends in rainforests of western Amazonia, exerting water stress, tree mortality, biomass loss, and large-scale fire disturbance. In contrast, there have been no reports on large-scale disturbance in rainforests of west and central Africa, though being exposed to similar intensity of climate variability. Using data from Tropical Rainfall Mapping Mission (TRMM) (1999-2010), and time series of rainfall observations from meteorological stations (1971-2000), we show that both Amazonian and African rainforest experienced strong precipitation anomalies from 2005-2010. We monitored the response of forest to the climate variability by analyzing the canopy water content observed by SeaWinds Ku-band Scatterometer (QSCAT) (1999-2009) and found that more than 70 million ha of forests in western Amazonia experienced a strong water deficit during the dry season of 2005 and a closely corresponding decline in canopy backscatter that persisted until the next major drought in 2010. This decline in backscatter has been attributed to loss of canopy water content and large-scale tree mortality corroborated by ground and airborne observations. However, no strong impacts was observed on tropical forests of Africa, suggesting that the African rainforest may have more resilience to droughts. We tested this hypothesis by examining the seasonal rainfall patterns, maximum water deficit, and the surface temperature variations. Results show that there is a complex pattern of low annual rainfall, moderate seasonality, and lower surface temperature in Central Africa compared to Amazonia, indicating potentially a lower evapotranspiration circumventing strong water deficits

Response of Tropical Forests to Intense Climate Variability and Rainfall Anomaly of Last Decade

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saatchi, S. S.; Asefi Najafabady, S.

2011-12-01

During the last decade, strong precipitation anomalies resulted from increased sea surface temperature in the tropical Atlantic, have caused extensive drying trends in rainforests of western Amazonia, exerting water stress, tree mortality, biomass loss, and large-scale fire disturbance. In contrast, there have been no reports on large-scale disturbance in rainforests of west and central Africa, though being exposed to similar intensity of climate variability. Using data from Tropical Rainfall Mapping Mission (TRMM) (1999-2010), and time series of rainfall observations from meteorological stations (1971-2000), we show that both Amazonian and African rainforest experienced strong precipitation anomalies from 2005-2010. We monitored the response of forest to the climate variability by analyzing the canopy water content observed by SeaWinds Ku-band Scatterometer (QSCAT) (1999-2009) and found that more than 70 million ha of forests in western Amazonia experienced a strong water deficit during the dry season of 2005 and a closely corresponding decline in canopy backscatter that persisted until the next major drought in 2010. This decline in backscatter has been attributed to loss of canopy water content and large-scale tree mortality corroborated by ground and airborne observations. However, no strong impacts was observed on tropical forests of Africa, suggesting that the African rainforest may have more resilience to droughts. We tested this hypothesis by examining the seasonal rainfall patterns, maximum water deficit, and the surface temperature variations. Results show that there is a complex pattern of low annual rainfall, moderate seasonality, and lower surface temperature in Central Africa compared to Amazonia, indicating potentially a lower evapotranspiration circumventing strong water deficits.

Topography of succinate dehydrogenase in the mitochondrial inner membrane. A study using limited proteolysis and immunoblotting.

PubMed Central

Clarkson, G H; Neagle, J; Lindsay, J G

1991-01-01

The arrangement of the large (70,000-Mr) and small (30,000-Mr) subunits of succinate dehydrogenase in the mitochondrial inner membrane was investigated by immunoblot analysis of bovine heart mitochondria (right-side-out, outer membrane disrupted) or submitochondrial particles (inside-out) that had been subjected to surface-specific proteolysis. Both subunits were resistant to proteinase treatment provided that the integrity of the inner membrane was preserved, suggesting that neither subunit is exposed at the cytoplasmic surface of the membrane. The bulk of the small subunit appears to protrude into the matrix compartment, since the 30,000-Mr polypeptide is degraded extensively during limited proteolysis of submitochondrial particles without the appearance of an immunologically reactive membrane-associated fragment: moreover, a soluble 27,000-Mr peptide derived from this subunit is observed transiently on incubation with trypsin. Similar data obtained from the large subunit suggest that this polypeptide interacts with the matrix side of the inner membrane via two distinct domains; these are detected as stable membrane-associated fragments of 32,000 Mr and 27,000 Mr after treatment of submitochondrial particles with papain or proteinase K, although the 27,000-Mr fragment can be degraded further to low-Mr peptides with trypsin or alpha-chymotrypsin. A stable 32,000-34,000-Mr fragment is generated by a variety of specific and non-specific proteinases, indicating that it may be embedded largely within the lipid bilayer, or is inaccessible to proteolytic attack owing to its proximity to the surface of the intact membrane, possibly interacting with the hydrophobic membrane anchoring polypeptides of the succinate: ubiquinone reductase complex. Images Fig. 1. Fig. 2. Fig. 3. Fig. 4. Fig. 5. PMID:1996968

Low friction wear resistant graphene films

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

Sumant, Anirudha V.; Berman, Diana; Erdemir, Ali

A low friction wear surface with a coefficient of friction in the superlubric regime including graphene and nanoparticles on the wear surface is provided, and methods of producing the low friction wear surface are also provided. A long lifetime wear resistant surface including graphene exposed to hydrogen is provided, including methods of increasing the lifetime of graphene containing wear surfaces by providing hydrogen to the wear surface.

Chemical reaction mechanisms between Y2O3 stabilized ZrO2 and Gd doped CeO2 with PH3 in coal syngas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Gang; Kishimoto, Haruo; Yamaji, Katsuhiko; Kuramoto, Koji; Gong, Mingyang; Liu, Xingbo; Hackett, Gregory; Gerdes, Kirk; Horita, Teruhisa

2014-12-01

To clarify the chemical stability of the key materials exposed to coal syngas (CSG) containing PH3 contaminant atmosphere, exposure tests of Y2O3 8 mol.% stabilized ZrO2 (YSZ) and Gd doped CeO2 (GDC) are carried out in simulated CSG with different concentrations of PH3. Significant reaction between YSZ and 10 ppm PH3 in CSG atmosphere is confirmed, and no obvious reaction is detected on the surface of YSZ after exposed in CSG with 1 ppm PH3. YPO4, Zr2.25(PO4)3 and monoclinic Y partial stabilized ZrO2 (m-PSZ) are identified on the YSZ pellet surface after exposed in CSG with 10 ppm PH3. GDC reacted with PH3 even at 1 ppm concentration. A (Ce0.9Gd0.1)PO4 layer is formed on the surface of GDC pellet after exposure in CSG with 10 ppm PH3. Possible reaction mechanisms between YSZ and GDC with PH3 in CSG are clarified. Compared with GDC, YSZ exhibits sufficient phosphorus resistance for devices directly exposed to a coal syngas atmosphere containing low concentration of PH3.

Using asteroid families to test planetesimal differentiation hypotheses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jacobson, S.; Campins, H.; Delbo', M.; Michel, P.; Tanga, P.; Hanuš, J.; Morbidelli, A.

2014-07-01

There have been a series of papers (e.g., Weiss et al. 2008, 2010, 2012; Carporzen et al. 2011; Elkins-Tanton et al. 2011) suggesting that large planetesimals should have metamorphic grading within their crusts and possibly fully-differentiated interiors with mantles and cores. This is a very attractive hypothesis consistent with ideas that planetesimals form as large bodies (Johansen et al. 2007, Cuzzi et al. 2008, Morbidelli et al. 2009) and form early in Solar System history when radioactive heating is still important. It is natural to look to the asteroid belt, our prime reservoir of terrestrial planet building blocks (i.e., left-over planetesimals), for confirmation of this idea. Asteroid families, long known to be the debris from catastrophic disruptions (Hirayama 1918, Michel et al. 2003) conveniently expose the interiors of these left-overs. From simulations of the catastrophic disruption process, we know that not all material is ejected equally. Material near the surface is given higher expulsion velocities and divided into smaller pieces (Michel et al. 2004). Furthermore, while catastrophic disruptions appear to be a messy process, the largest remnants, including those formed by re-accumulation of smaller fragments, come from coherent sections of the progenitor body, although the extent and depth of these sections within the progenitor depend on its internal structure (Michel et al. 2014). This suggests that the ejected material should also maintain a coherent compositional structure (Michel et al., 2004). Therefore, compositional gradients within planetesimals should expose themselves within asteroid families. While all asteroid families share a number of common features, there is a large diversity of membership numbers, progenitor masses, collision energy, formation times, and spectroscopic type and sub-type both between and within families (Zappala et al. 1995, Nesvorny 2012). This compositional diversity allows for a thorough exploration of the consequences of the hypothesized compositional radial gradients within the planetesimal population. The circumstantial diversity (membership number, progenitor mass, and collision energy) determines how exposed the interior of the planetesimal is. Using estimates of the progenitor mass and the mass of the largest remnant (Tanga et al. 1999, Durda et al. 2007, Broz et al. 2013), we can assess the exposed nature of different asteroid families. Those with the lowest ratio of largest remnant to planetesimal mass are more exposed since more of their mass is within the asteroid family membership as opposed to being sequestered in the largest remnant. Furthermore, models of the planetesimal differentiation process are strongly size dependent since smaller bodies cool much more effectively. Therefore, progenitor mass is also a proxy for the expected degree of differentiation. Using this set of proxies, we examine a diverse array of asteroid families to test the hypothesis of differentiation or metamorphic grading.

Synthesis of nano-structure tungsten nitride thin films on silicon using Mather-type plasma focus

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hussnain, A.; Rawat, R. S.; Ahmad, R.; Umar, Z. A.; Hussain, T.; Lee, P.; Chen, Z.

2015-07-01

Nano-structure thin film of tungsten nitride was deposited onto Si-substrate at room temperature using Mather-type plasma focus (3.3 kJ) machine. Substrate was exposed against 10, 20, 30, and 40 deposition shots and its corresponding effect on structure, morphology, conductivity and nano-hardness has been systematically studied. The X-ray diffractormeter spectra of the exposed samples show the presence of various phases of WN and WN2 that depends on number of deposition shots. Surface morphological study revealed the uniform distribution of nano-sized grains on deposited film surface. Hardness and conductivity of exposed substrate improved with higher deposition shots. X-ray photo-electron spectroscopy survey scan of 40 deposition shots confirmed the elemental presence of W and N on Si-substrate.

The Lunar Regolith

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Noble, Sarah

2009-01-01

A thick layer of regolith, fragmental and unconsolidated rock material, covers the entire lunar surface. This layer is the result of the continuous impact of meteoroids large and small and the steady bombardment of charged particles from the sun and stars. The regolith is generally about 4-5 m thick in mare regions and 10-15 m in highland areas (McKay et al., 1991) and contains all sizes of material from large boulders to sub-micron dust particles. Below the regolith is a region of large blocks of material, large-scale ejecta and brecciated bedrock, often referred to as the "megaregolith". Lunar soil is a term often used interchangeably with regolith, however, soil is defined as the subcentimeter fraction of the regolith (in practice though, soil generally refers to the submillimeter fraction of the regolith). Lunar dust has been defined in many ways by different researchers, but generally refers to only the very finest fractions of the soil, less than approx.10 or 20 microns. Lunar soil can be a misleading term, as lunar "soil" bears little in common with terrestrial soils. Lunar soil contains no organic matter and is not formed through biologic or chemical means as terrestrial soils are, but strictly through mechanical comminution from meteoroids and interaction with the solar wind and other energetic particles. Lunar soils are also not exposed to the wind and water that shapes the Earth. As a consequence, in contrast to terrestrial soils, lunar soils are not sorted in any way, by size, shape, or chemistry. Finally, without wind and water to wear down the edges, lunar soil grains tend to be sharp with fresh fractured surfaces.

Electrode materials

DOEpatents

Amine, Khalil; Abouimrane, Ali; Belharouak, Ilias

2017-01-31

A process for forming a surface-treatment layer on an electroactive material includes heating the electroactive material and exposing the electroactive material to a reducing gas to form a surface-treatment layer on the electroactive material, where the surface-treatment layer is a layer of partial reduction of the electroactive material.

Investigation of He-W interactions using DiMES on DIII-D

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Doerner, R. P.; Rudakov, D. L.; Chrobak, C. P.; Briesemeister, A. R.; Corr, C.; De Temmerman, G.; Kluth, P.; Lasnier, C. J.; McLean, A. G.; Pace, D. C.; Pitts, R. A.; Schmitz, O.; Thompson, M.; Winters, V.

2016-02-01

Tungsten button samples were exposed to He ELMing H-mode plasma in DIII-D using 2.3 MW of electron cyclotron heating power. Prior to the exposures, the W buttons were exposed to either He, or D, plasma in PISCES-A for 2000 s at surface temperatures of 225-850 °C to create a variety of surfaces (surface blisters, subsurface nano-bubbles, fuzz). Erosion was spectroscopically measured from each DiMES sample, with the exception of the fuzzy W samples which showed almost undetectable WI emission. Post-exposure grazing incidence small angle x-ray scattering surface analysis showed the formation of 1.5 nm diameter He bubbles in the surface of W buttons after only a single DIII-D (3 s, ˜150 ELMs) discharge, similar to the bubble layer resulting from the 2000 s. exposure in PISCES-A. No surface roughening, or damage, was detected on the samples after approximately 600 ELMs with energy density between 0.04-0.1 MJ m-2.

Optical emission generated by collisions of 5 eV O(3P) atoms with surface-absorbed hydrazine

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Orient, O. J.; Martus, K. E.; Chutjian, A.; Murad, E.

1992-01-01

Optical emission has been observed corresponding to vibrational bands in the NH (A 3Pi - X 3Sigma(-)) electronic transition during collisions of 5 eV, ground-state oxygen O(3P) atoms with MgF2 and Ni surfaces continuously exposed to a beam of hydrazine (N2H4). The NH emission intensity is observed to be about five times greater for MgF2 than for Ni. No dependence on temperature was observed for either surface in the range 240 - 340 K, implying that the NH-producing intermediate species is tightly bound. The half-lifetime for desorption of hydrazine from each surface was measured. This was found to be 120 min for the MgF2 surface at 240 K, and less than 20 min for Ni. After exposure, the surface composition was measured using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy on the exposed and unexposed areas of both targets.

Strong catalytic activity of iron nanoparticles on the surfaces of reduced olivine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tucker, William C.; Quadery, Abrar H.; Schulte, Alfons; Blair, Richard G.; Kaden, William E.; Schelling, Patrick K.; Britt, Daniel T.

2018-01-01

It is demonstrated that olivine powders heated to subsolidus temperatures in reducing conditions can develop significant concentrations of 10-50 nm diameter Fe nanoparticles on grain surfaces and that these display strong catalytic activity not observed in powders without Fe nanoparticles. Reduced surfaces were exposed to NH3, CO, and H2, volatiles that may be present on the surfaces of comet and volatile-rich asteroids. In the case of NH3 exposure, rapid decomposition was observed. When exposed to a mixture of CO and H2, significant coking of the mineral surfaces occurred. Analysis of the mineral grains after reaction indicated primarily the presence of graphene or graphitic carbon. The results demonstrate that strong chemical activity can be expected at powders that contain nanophase Fe particles. This suggests space-weathered mineral surfaces may play an important role in the synthesis and processing of organic species. This processing may be part of the weathering processes of volatile-rich but atmosphereless solar-system bodies.

The green tea modulates large intestinal microbiome and exo/endogenous metabolome altered through chronic UVB-exposure.

PubMed

Jung, Eun Sung; Park, Hye Min; Hyun, Seung Min; Shon, Jong Cheol; Singh, Digar; Liu, Kwang-Hyeon; Whon, Tae Woong; Bae, Jin-Woo; Hwang, Jae Sung; Lee, Choong Hwan

2017-01-01

The attenuating effects of green tea supplements (GTS) against the ultraviolet (UV) radiation induced skin damages are distinguished. However, the concomitant effects of GTS on the large intestinal microbiomes and associated metabolomes are largely unclear. Herein, we performed an integrated microbiome-metabolome analysis to uncover the esoteric links between gut microbiome and exo/endogenous metabolome maneuvered in the large intestine of UVB-exposed mice subjected to dietary GTS. In UVB-exposed mice groups (UVB), class Bacilli and order Bifidobacteriales were observed as discriminant taxa with decreased lysophospholipid levels compared to the unexposed mice groups subjected to normal diet (NOR). Conversely, in GTS fed UVB-exposed mice (U+GTS), the gut-microbiome diversity was greatly enhanced with enrichment in the classes, Clostridia and Erysipelotrichia, as well as genera, Allobaculum and Lachnoclostridium. Additionally, the gut endogenous metabolomes changed with an increase in amino acids, fatty acids, lipids, and bile acids contents coupled with a decrease in nucleobases and carbohydrate levels. The altered metabolomes exhibited high correlations with GTS enriched intestinal microflora. Intriguingly, the various conjugates of green tea catechins viz., sulfated, glucuronided, and methylated ones including their exogenous derivatives were detected from large intestinal contents and liver samples. Hence, we conjecture that the metabolic conversions for the molecular components in GTS strongly influenced the gut micro-environment in UVB-exposed mice groups, ergo modulate their gut-microbiome as well as exo/endogenous metabolomes.

Surface transport mechanisms in molecular glasses probed by the exposure of nano-particles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ruan, Shigang; Musumeci, Daniele; Zhang, Wei; Gujral, Ankit; Ediger, M. D.; Yu, Lian

2017-05-01

For a glass-forming liquid, the mechanism by which its surface contour evolves can change from bulk viscous flow at high temperatures to surface diffusion at low temperatures. We show that this mechanistic change can be conveniently detected by the exposure of nano-particles native in the material. Despite its high chemical purity, the often-studied molecular glass indomethacin contains low-concentration particles approximately 100 nm in size and 0.3% in volume fraction. Similar particles are present in polystyrene, another often-used model. In the surface-diffusion regime, particles are gradually exposed in regions vacated by host molecules, for example, the peak of a surface grating and the depletion zone near a surface crystal. In the viscous-flow regime, particle exposure is not observed. The surface contour around an exposed particle widens over time in a self-similar manner as 3 (Bt)1/4, where B is a surface mobility constant and the same constant obtained by surface grating decay. This work suggests that in a binary system composed of slow- and fast-diffusing molecules, slow-diffusing molecules can be stranded in surface regions vacated by fast-diffusing molecules, effectively leading to phase separation.

Cratering Studies in Thin Plastic Films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shu, Anthony; Bugiel, S.; Gruen, E.; Horanyi, M.; Munsat, T.; Srama, R.; Colorado CenterLunar Dust; Atmospheric Studies (CCLDAS) Team

2013-10-01

Thin plastic films, such as Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF), have been used as protective coatings or dust detectors on a number of missions including the Dust Counter and Mass Analyzer (DUCMA) instrument on Vega 1 and 2, the High Rate Detector (HRD) on the Cassini Mission, and the Student Dust Counter (SDC) on New Horizons. These types of detectors can be used on the lunar surface or in lunar orbit to detect dust grain size distributions and velocities. Due to their low power requirements and light weight, large surface area detectors can be built for observing low dust fluxes. The SDC dust detector is made up of a permanently polarized layer of PVDF coated on both sides with a thin layer (≈ 1000 Å) of aluminum nickel. The operation principle is that a micrometeorite impact removes a portion of the metal surface layer exposing the permanently polarized PVDF underneath. This causes a local potential near the crater changing the surface charge of the metal layer. The dimensions of the crater determine the strength of the potential and thus the signal generated by the PVDF. The theoretical basis for signal interpretation uses a crater diameter scaling law which was not intended for use with PVDF. In this work, a crater size scaling law has been experimentally determined, and further simulation work is being done to enhance our understanding of the mechanisms of crater formation. Two Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) codes are being evaluated for use as a simulator for hypervelocity impacts: Ansys Autodyn and LS-Dyna from the Livermore Software Technology Corp. SPH is known to be well suited to the large deformities found in hypervelocity impacts. It is capable of incorporating key physics phenomena, including fracture, heat transfer, melting, etc. Furthermore, unlike Eulerian methods, SPH is gridless allowing large deformities without the inclusion of unphysical erosion algorithms. Experimental results and preliminary simulation results and conclusions will be presented.

A new method for measuring mechanical properties of laryngeal mucosa.

PubMed

Hemler, R J; Wieneke, G H; van Riel, A M; Lebacq, J; Dejonckere, P H

2001-03-01

A study of the effect of exogenous hazardous agents or conditions on the mechanical characteristics of vocal fold mucosa should meet three methodological criteria. 1) The outer surface of the mucosa should be exposed to the agent or condition while the inner surface is exposed to a physiological environment. 2) Even slight changes in mechanical characteristics should be detected. 3) The applied strain should be within physiological ranges. To date, no such method has been described in the literature. A method meeting the listed criteria is proposed and evaluated here.

Method and apparatus for fabricating improved solar cell modules

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bloch, J. T.; Hanger, R. T.; Nichols, F. W. (Inventor)

1980-01-01

A method and apparatus for fabricating an improved solar cell module is described. The apparatus includes a supply drum for feeding a flexible strip having etched electrical circuitry deposited on it a supply drum for feeding into overlying engagement with the flexible strip a flexible tape having a pair of exposed tacky surfaces, and a plurality of rams for receiving and depositing a plurality of solar cells in side-by-side relation on an exposed tacky surface of the tape in electrical contacting engagement with the etched circuitry.

Automated brush plating process for solid oxide fuel cells

DOEpatents

Long, Jeffrey William

2003-01-01

A method of depositing a metal coating (28) on the interconnect (26) of a tubular, hollow fuel cell (10) contains the steps of providing the fuel cell (10) having an exposed interconnect surface (26); contacting the inside of the fuel cell (10) with a cathode (45) without use of any liquid materials; passing electrical current through a contacting applicator (46) which contains a metal electrolyte solution; passing the current from the applicator (46) to the cathode (45) and contacting the interconnect (26) with the applicator (46) and coating all of the exposed interconnect surface.

Transparent Large Strain Thermoplastic Polyurethane Magneto-Active Nanocomposites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yoonessi, Mitra; Carpen, Ileana; Peck, John; Sola, Francisco; Bail, Justin; Lerch, Bradley; Meador, Michael

2010-01-01

Smart adaptive materials are an important class of materials which can be used in space deployable structures, morphing wings, and structural air vehicle components where remote actuation can improve fuel efficiency. Adaptive materials can undergo deformation when exposed to external stimuli such as electric fields, thermal gradients, radiation (IR, UV, etc.), chemical and electrochemical actuation, and magnetic field. Large strain, controlled and repetitive actuation are important characteristics of smart adaptive materials. Polymer nanocomposites can be tailored as shape memory polymers and actuators. Magnetic actuation of polymer nanocomposites using a range of iron, iron cobalt, and iron manganese nanoparticles is presented. The iron-based nanoparticles were synthesized using the soft template (1) and Sun's (2) methods. The nanoparticles shape and size were examined using TEM. The crystalline structure and domain size were evaluated using WAXS. Surface modifications of the nanoparticles were performed to improve dispersion, and were characterized with IR and TGA. TPU nanocomposites exhibited actuation for approximately 2wt% nanoparticle loading in an applied magnetic field. Large deformation and fast recovery were observed. These nanocomposites represent a promising potential for new generation of smart materials.

Final Act of an Oceanic Detachment Fault Revealed by Submersible Dives at 13°48'N on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Parnell-Turner, R. E.; Mittelstaedt, E. L.; Kurz, M. D.; Klein, F.

2017-12-01

A large proportion of crustal accretion on the slow-spreading Mid-Atlantic Ridge occurs under the influence of slip on low-angle detachment faults. The final stages of activity on an individual detachment system remain poorly understood, since it is difficult to place age constraints on exposed fault surfaces or lava flows. We use data from a combination of manned (Alvin) and autonomous (Sentry) submersible dives on a detachment near 13°48'N, to infer the history of slip and volcanism on a detachment fault which has recently become extinct. The corrugated surface, near the toe of the detachment, is cross-cut by a volcanic ridge, where pillow lavas have been photographed and sampled. Sub-bottom (CHIRP) profiles acquired by Sentry provide estimates of sediment thickness, which we use as a proxy for seafloor age, thus providing a relative dating tool for the exposed detachment footwall and erupted lavas. Sediments covering the footwall are 2 m thinner than those on lavas which cut across the detachment, implying that slip continued for 150 ka after eruption (assuming a constant sedimentation rate of 7 ± 2 mm/yr). Alternatively, sediment on the footwall may have been mass-wasted, and volcanism could have been contemporaneous with detachment inactivity. These results demonstrate that detachment faults may be highly sensitive to local changes in magma supply, and that direct seafloor observations are crucial to understanding slow-spreading ridge mechanics.

Ultrafast Thermal Plasma Preparation of Solid Si Films with Potential Application in Photovoltaic Cells: A Parametric Study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mostajeran Goortani, Behnam; Gitzhofer, François; Bouyer, Etienne; Mousavi, Mehdi

2009-03-01

An innovative method, namely ultrafast plasma surface melting, is developed to fabricate solid films of silicon with very high rates (150 cm2/min). The method is composed of preparing a suspension of solid particles in a volatile solvent and spreading it on a refractory substrate such as Mo. After solvent evaporation, the resulting porous layer is exposed to the flame tale of inductively coupled RF plasma to sinter and melt the surface particles and to prepare a solid film of silicon. It is shown that by controlling the flow dynamics and heat transfer around the substrate, and managing the kinetic parameters (i.e., exposure time, substrate transport speed, and reaction kinetics) in the reactor, we can produce solid crystalline Si films with the potential applications in photovoltaic cells industry. The results indicate that the optimum formation conditions with a film thickness of 250-700 μm is when the exposure time in the plasma is in the range of 5-12.5 s for a 100 × 50 mm large layer. By combining the Fourier’s law of conduction with the experimental measurements, we obtained an effective heat diffusivity and developed a model to obtain heat diffusion in the porous layer exposed to the plasma. The model further predicts the minimum and maximum exposure time for the substrate in the plasma flame as a function of material properties, the porous layer thickness and of the imposed heat flux.

Micrometeoroid and orbital debris impact inspection of the Hubble Space Telescope Wide Field Planetary Camera 2 radiator and the implications for the near-Earth small particle environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liou, J.-C.; Anz-Meador, P.; Opiela, J.; Christiansen, E.; Cowardin, H.; Davidson, W.; Ed-Wards, D.; Hedman, T.; Herrin, J.; Hyde, J.; Juarez, Q.; Lear, D.; McNamara, K.; Moser, D.; Ross, D.; Stansbery, E.

The STS-125 Atlantis astronauts retrieved the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) Wide Field Planetary Camera 2 (WFPC2) during a very successful servicing mission to the HST in May 2009. The radiator attached to WFPC2 has dimensions of 2.2 m by 0.8 m. Its outermost layer is a 4-mm thick aluminum plate covered with a white thermal control coating. This radiator had been exposed to space since the deployment of WFPC2 in 1993. Due to its large surface area and long exposure time, the radiator serves as a unique witness plate for the micrometeoroid and orbital debris (MMOD) environment between 560 and 620 km altitude. The NASA Orbital Debris Program Office is leading an effort, with full support from the HST Program at GSFC, NASA Curation Office at JSC, NASA Hypervelocity Impact Technology Facility at JSC, and NASA Meteoroid Environment Office at MSFC, to inspect the exposed radiator surface. The objective is to measure and analyze the MMOD impact damage on the radiator, and then apply the data to validate or improve the near-Earth MMOD environment definition. The initial inspection was completed in September 2009. A total of 685 MMOD impact features (larger than about 0.3 mm) were identified and documented. This paper will provide an overview of the inspection, the analysis of the data, and the initial effort to use the data to model the MMOD environment.

Scar quality and physiologic barrier function restoration after moist and moist-exposed dressings of partial-thickness wounds.

PubMed

Atiyeh, Bishara S; El-Musa, Kusai A; Dham, Ruwayda

2003-01-01

There is growing evidence of improved healing of full- and partial-thickness cutaneous wounds in wet and moist environments. Retention of biologic fluids over the wound prevents desiccation of denuded dermis or deeper tissues and allows faster and unimpeded migration of keratinocytes over the wound surface. It allows also the naturally occurring cytokines and growth factors to exert their beneficial effect on wound contracture and re-epithelialization. Despite all of these documented benefits, applying the moist healing principles to large surface areas, in particular to large burns, is hindered by the major technical handicap of creating and maintaining a sealed moist environment over these areas. From January to September 2001, healing of partial-thickness skin graft donor sites was studied in a prospective comparative study of two types of moist dressings, Tegaderm (3M Health Care, St. Paul, MN), a semipermeable membrane occlusive dressing, and moist exposed burn ointment (MEBO) (Julphar; Gulf Pharmaceutical Industries, United Arab of Emirates), an ointment that can provide a moist environment without the need of an overlying occlusive dressing. Healing was assessed both clinically and with serial measurements of transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and moisture. Following healing, scar quality was evaluated by two members of the team separately using a visual analog scale. Results were statistically analyzed. Faster healing was observed clinically with MEBO application. Physiologic healing as determined by TEWL measurements occurred at an extremely significant earlier stage for MEBO, and this was associated with better scar quality, demonstrating a positive relationship between function and cosmetic appearance. Moreover, the ointment is definitely easier to apply than the occlusive self-adhesive membrane, which requires some degree of dexterity and expertise. MEBO application is an effective and valid alternative to conventional occlusive dressings. Moreover, the observed improved anatomic and physiologic healing indicates that MEBO may have a positive effect on healing more that the mere fact of passive moisture retention.

The Corrosion of High Performance Steel in Adverse Environments

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

Cook, Desmond C.

The corrosion products that have formed on weathering steel bridges exposed to different weather conditions in the United States have been evaluated. They have been analyzed by spectroscopic techniques to determine the relationship between protective and non-protective rust coatings, and their relationship to the exposure conditions. Bridges constructed recently using High Performance Steel, as well as older bridges built with Type A588B weathering steel, were evaluated for corrosion performance of the rust coatings. In locations where the steel is subjected to regular wet-dry cycling, where the surface is wet for less than about 20% of the time, a protective patinamore » starts to form after a few months exposure, and continues to an adherent, impervious coating after a decade. The protective patina is characterized by the formation of only goethite and lepidocrocite. The goethite makes up about 80% of the rust, and itself consists of a nanophase component, < 15 nm, making up about 70% of the goethite. The nanophase goethite is basically undetected by X-ray diffraction. In the presence of high time-of-wetness, >40%, or infrequent drying cycles (regions close to waterways, fog or having high humidity), the weathering steel forms a rust coating that consists of a large amount of maghemite, and goethite that contains very little of the nanophase component. The rust coating ex-foliates from the steel and is not protective. Under exposure conditions in which chlorides are deposited onto the weathering steel surface (marine or de-icing salt locations), the protective patina also does not form. Instead, the rust coating consists of a large fraction of akaganeite that forms at the expense of the lepidocrocite and nanophase goethite. The bridges exposed to high chloride concentrations, 1.5 wt%, and therefore having no protective patina, have corrosion rates measured to be 6 times larger than expected for weathering steel with the protective patina.« less

Surface Structure Spread Single Crystals (S4C): Preparation and characterization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

de Alwis, A.; Holsclaw, B.; Pushkarev, V. V.; Reinicker, A.; Lawton, T. J.; Blecher, M. E.; Sykes, E. C. H.; Gellman, A. J.

2013-02-01

A set of six spherically curved Cu single crystals referred to as Surface Structure Spread Single Crystals (S4Cs) has been prepared in such a way that their exposed surfaces collectively span all possible crystallographic surface orientations that can be cleaved from the face centered cubic Cu lattice. The method for preparing these S4Cs and for finding the high symmetry pole point is described. Optical profilometry has been used to determine the true shapes of the S4Cs and show that over the majority of the surface, the shape is extremely close to that of a perfect sphere. The local orientations of the surfaces lie within ± 1° of the orientation expected on the basis of the spherical shape; their orientation is as good as that of many commercially prepared single crystals. STM imaging has been used to characterize the atomic level structure of the Cu(111) ± 11°-S4C. This has shown that the average step densities and the average step orientations match those expected based on the spherical shape. In other words, although there is some distribution of step-step spacing and step orientations, there is no evidence of large scale reconstruction or faceting. The Cu S4Cs have local structures based on the ideal termination of the face centered cubic Cu lattice in the direction of termination. The set of Cu S4Cs will serve as the basis for high throughput investigations of structure sensitive surface chemistry on Cu.

Weak Vertical Surface Movement Caused by the Ascent of the Emeishan Mantle Anomaly

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Jiang; Zhang, Zhaochong; Reichow, Marc K.; Li, Hongbo; Cai, Wenchang; Pan, Ronghao

2018-02-01

Prevailing mantle plume models reveal that the roles of plume-lithosphere interactions in shaping surface topography are complex and controversial, and also difficult to test. The exposed and complete strata in the Emeishan large igneous province (LIP) recorded abundant paleoenvironmental information associated with preeruptions and syneruptions, attracting numerous workers to this province to test these models. Despite intensified research these models are still strongly debated. This study represents an extensive field investigation combining new and previously published data from the Emeishan LIP to further seek information on plume-induced topographic variations. Our results indicate that there are inconspicuous vertical motions of the surface topography during the ascent of mantle plume, and a significant surface subsidence occurred at the early stage of the volcanism that has a significantly positive correlation with the thickness of local lavas, and the topographic uplift emerged in the late stage of the volcanism. Our studies provide key geological and geochemical evidence that the ascent of the Emeishan plume is unable to drive a significant surface uplift, owing to the plume containing numerous entrained bodies of dense recycled oceanic crust (10-20%) that can significantly reduce plume buoyancy. The significant surface subsidence maybe linked to a significant loss of thermal buoyancy due to the release of heat, which, accompanied by rapid loading of numerous dense erupted lava and a strong lithospheric flexure, also lead to a later synchronous and significant surface subsidence in the Emeishan LIP.

Kinetic stabilization of Bacillus licheniformis alpha-amylase through introduction of hydrophobic residues at the surface.

PubMed

Machius, Mischa; Declerck, Nathalie; Huber, Robert; Wiegand, Georg

2003-03-28

It is generally assumed that in proteins hydrophobic residues are not favorable at solvent-exposed sites, and that amino acid substitutions on the surface have little effect on protein thermostability. Contrary to these assumptions, we have identified hyperthermostable variants of Bacillus licheniformis alpha-amylase (BLA) that result from the incorporation of hydrophobic residues at the surface. Under highly destabilizing conditions, a variant combining five stabilizing mutations unfolds 32 times more slowly and at a temperature 13 degrees C higher than the wild-type. Crystal structure analysis at 1.7 A resolution suggests that stabilization is achieved through (a) extension of the concept of increased hydrophobic packing, usually applied to cavities, to surface indentations, (b) introduction of favorable aromatic-aromatic interactions on the surface, (c) specific stabilization of intrinsic metal binding sites, and (d) stabilization of a beta-sheet by introducing a residue with high beta-sheet forming propensity. All mutated residues are involved in forming complex, cooperative interaction networks that extend from the interior of the protein to its surface and which may therefore constitute "weak points" where BLA unfolding is initiated. This might explain the unexpectedly large effect induced by some of the substitutions on the kinetic stability of BLA. Our study shows that substantial protein stabilization can be achieved by stabilizing surface positions that participate in underlying cooperatively formed substructures. At such positions, even the apparently thermodynamically unfavorable introduction of hydrophobic residues should be explored.

Geopolymer for protective coating of transportation infrastructures.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1998-09-01

Surface deterioration of exposed transportation structures is a major problem. In most cases, : surface deterioration could lead to structural problems because of the loss of cover and ensuing : reinforcement corrosion. To minimize the deterioration,...

Immunohistochemical study of bone sialoprotein and osteopontin in healthy and diseased root surfaces.

PubMed

Lao, Martin; Marino, Victor; Bartold, P Mark

2006-10-01

Periodontal disease is marked by inflammation and damage to tooth-supporting tissues. In particular, damage occurs to factors present in cementum that are thought to have the ability to influence the regeneration of surrounding tissues. Bone sialoprotein and osteopontin are major non-collagenous proteins in mineralized connective tissues associated with precementoblast chemo-attraction, adhesion to the root surface, and cell differentiation. The purpose of this investigation was to determine whether the expression and distribution of bone sialoprotein and osteopontin on root surfaces affected by periodontitis are altered compared to healthy, non-diseased root surfaces. Thirty healthy and 30 periodontitis-affected teeth were collected. Following fixation and demineralization, specimens were embedded in paraffin, sectioned, and exposed to antibodies against bone sialoprotein and osteopontin. Stained sections were assessed using light microscopy. Bone sialoprotein was not detected in the exposed cementum (absence of overlying periodontal ligament) of diseased teeth. In most areas where the periodontal ligament was intact, bone sialoprotein was detected for healthy and diseased teeth. For teeth reactive for bone sialoprotein, the matrix of the cementum just below the periodontal ligament was moderately stained. A similar immunoreactivity pattern for osteopontin was observed. The absence of bone sialoprotein and osteopontin staining along exposed cementum surfaces may be due to structural and compositional changes in matrix components associated with periodontal disease. This may influence the ability for regeneration and new connective tissue attachment onto previously diseased root surfaces.

Biocide leaching during field experiments on treated articles.

PubMed

Schoknecht, Ute; Mathies, Helena; Wegner, Robby

2016-01-01

Biocidal products can be sources of active substances in surface waters caused by weathering of treated articles. Marketing and use of biocidal products can be limited according to the European Biocidal Products Regulation if unacceptable risks to the environment are expected. Leaching of active substances from treated articles was observed in field experiments to obtain information on leaching processes and investigate the suitability of a proposed test method. Leaching under weathering conditions proceeds discontinuously and tends to decrease with duration of exposure. It does not only mainly depend on the availability of water but is also controlled by transport processes within the materials and stability of the observed substances. Runoff amount proved to be a suitable basis to compare results from different experiments. Concentrations of substances are higher in runoff collected from vertical surfaces compared to horizontal ones, whereas the leached amounts per surface area are higher from horizontal surfaces. Gaps in mass balances indicate that additional processes such as degradation and evaporation may be relevant to the fate of active substances in treated articles. Leached amounts of substances were considerably higher when the materials were exposed to intermittent water contact under laboratory conditions as compared to weathering of vertically exposed surfaces. Experiences from the field experiments were used to define parameters of a procedure that is now provided to fulfil the requirements of the Biocidal Products Regulation. The experiments confirmed that the amount of water which is in contact with exposed surfaces is the crucial parameter determining leaching of substances.

SHARAD Radar investigations into the initiation of spiral troughs on Planum Boreum, Mars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smith, I. B.; Holt, J. W.

2010-12-01

Recent evidence demonstrates that the prominent spiral troughs of the North Polar Layered Deposits (NPLD) on Mars are not young features, having persisted and evolved during accumulation of more than 500 meters of ice [Smith and Holt, Nature, 2010]. Because of the rich stratigraphy in the NPLD, determining the processes controlling trough formation and evolution is an important step in understanding the history of ice and climate on Mars. Multiple periods of trough initiation are observed in radar data collected by the Shallow Radar (SHARAD) instrument on Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter; however, the mechanism behind trough initiation is still a mystery. Discrete radar reflectors can be associated with the onset of spiral troughs because of their stratigraphic relationships: below the reflectors the troughs do not exist, and above the troughs begin to take shape. To address the question of trough formation we have mapped these reflectors, which are assumed to represent isochrones, in more than 400 SHARAD observations throughout the NPLD. Taken together these represent the surfaces where troughs initiated, i.e. surfaces that lie directly below the first appearance of troughs. When observation geometries are favorable, we find that the onset of each trough rests on a change in slope usually at the base of a buried erosional scarp. The underlying layers end abruptly at the scarps rather than diminish or pinch out with distance, suggesting that the NPLD underwent cap-wide erosion predating trough formation. This surface morphology provides the initial conditions needed to form troughs from the combination of deposition and katabatic winds affected by surface slope. Radar observations indicate that the troughs initiated and evolved with approximately the same wavelength as can be measured today. Thus proposed hypotheses of small bedforms growing into larger wavelength structures is not supported. Locally, the unconformable contact between younger, trough-related material and older eroded surfaces is exposed at the surface. Neither the younger nor older exposed layers show small-scale bedforms, supporting this conclusion. At least two initiation surfaces can be observed in the radar data within the uppermost 500 m of the NPLD. Alternating periods of erosion and deposition are predicted to result from large changes in obliquity and insolation at the Martian north pole [Laskar et al., Nature, 2004], suggesting that trough initiation may be related to orbital forcing.

Optical scanning apparatus for indicia imprinted about a cylindrical axis

DOEpatents

Villarreal, Richard A.

1987-01-01

An optical scanner employed in a radioactive environment for reading indicia imprinted about a cylindrical surface of an article by means of an optical system including metallic reflective and mirror surfaces resistant to degradation and discoloration otherwise imparted to glass surfaces exposed to radiation.

Process for leveling film surfaces and products thereof

DOEpatents

Birkmire, R.W.; McCandless, B.E.

1990-03-20

Semiconductor films and photovoltaic devices prepared therefrom are provided wherein the semiconductor films have a specular surface with a texture less than about 0.25 micron greater than the average planar film surface and wherein the semiconductor films are surface modified by exposing the surface to an aqueous solution of bromine containing an acid or salt and continuing such exposure for a time sufficient to etch the surface. 8 figs.

Overstory removal and residue treatments affect soil surface, air, and soil temperature: implications for seedling survival

Treesearch

Roger D. Hungerford; Ronald E. Babbitt

1987-01-01

Potentially lethal ground surface temperatures were measured at three locations in the Northern Rocky Mountains but occurred more frequently under treatments with greater overstory removal. Observed maximum and minimum temperatures of exposed surfaces are directly related to the thermal properties of the surface materials. Survival of planted seedlings was consistent...

A scanning electron microscopy study of diseased root surfaces conditioned with EDTA gel plus Cetavlon after scaling and root planing.

PubMed

Martins Júnior, Walter; De Rossi, Andiara; Samih Georges Abi Rached, Ricardo; Rossi, Marcos Antonio

2011-01-01

In the present investigation, a scanning electron microscopy analysis was performed to evaluate the effects of the topical application of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) gel associated with Cetavlon (EDTAC) in removing the smear layer and exposing collagen fibers following root surface instrumentation. Twenty-eight teeth from adult humans, single rooted and scheduled for extraction due to periodontal reasons, were selected. Each tooth was submitted to manual (scaling and root planing) instrumentation alone or combined with ultrasonic instruments, with or without etching using a 24% EDTAC gel. Following extraction, specimens were processed and examined under a scanning electron microscope. A comparative morphological semi-quantitative analysis was performed; the intensity of the smear layer and the decalcification of cementum and dentinal surfaces were graded in 12 sets using an arbitrary scale ranging from 1 (area covered by a smear layer) to 4 (no smear layer). Root debridement with hand instruments alone or combined with ultrasonic instruments resulted in a similar smear layer covering the root surfaces. The smear layer was successfully removed from the surfaces treated with EDTAC, which exhibited numerous exposed dentinal tubules and collagen fibers. This study supports the hypothesis that manual instrumentation alone or instrumentation combined with ultrasonic instrumentation is unable to remove the smear layer, whereas the subsequent topical application of EDTAC gel effectively removes the smear layer, uncovers dentinal openings and exposes collagen fibers.

Extracellular vesicles from Paracoccidioides pathogenic species transport polysaccharide and expose ligands for DC-SIGN receptors

DOE PAGES

da Silva, Roberta Peres; Heiss, Christian; Black, Ian; ...

2015-09-21

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) mediate non-conventional transport of molecules across the fungal cell wall. We aimed at describing the carbohydrate composition and surface carbohydrate epitopes of EVs isolated from the pathogenic fungi Paracoccidioides brasiliensis and P. lutzii using standard procedures. Total EV carbohydrates were ethanol-precipitated from preparations depleted of lipids and proteins, then analyzed by chemical degradation, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, nuclear magnetic resonance and size-exclusion chromatography. EV glycosyl residues of Glc, Man, and Gal comprised most probably two major components: a high molecular mass 4,6-α-glucan and a galactofuranosylmannan, possibly an oligomer, bearing a 2-α-Manp main chain linked to β-Galf (1,3) andmore » α-Manp (1,6) end units. The results also suggested the presence of small amounts of a (1→6)- Manp polymer, (1→3)-glucan and (1→6)-glucan. Glycan microarrays allowed identification of EV surface lectin(s), while plant lectin microarray profiling revealed terminal Man and GlcNAc residues exposed at the EVs surface. Mammalian lectin microarray profiling showed that DC-SIGN receptors recognized surface carbohydrate in Paracoccidioides EVs. Our results suggest that oligosaccharides, cytoplasmic storage, and cell wall polysaccharides can be exported in fungal EVs, which also expose surface PAMPs and lectins. As a result, the role of these newly identified components in the interaction with the host remains to be unraveled.« less

Extracellular vesicles from Paracoccidioides pathogenic species transport polysaccharide and expose ligands for DC-SIGN receptors

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

da Silva, Roberta Peres; Heiss, Christian; Black, Ian

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) mediate non-conventional transport of molecules across the fungal cell wall. We aimed at describing the carbohydrate composition and surface carbohydrate epitopes of EVs isolated from the pathogenic fungi Paracoccidioides brasiliensis and P. lutzii using standard procedures. Total EV carbohydrates were ethanol-precipitated from preparations depleted of lipids and proteins, then analyzed by chemical degradation, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, nuclear magnetic resonance and size-exclusion chromatography. EV glycosyl residues of Glc, Man, and Gal comprised most probably two major components: a high molecular mass 4,6-α-glucan and a galactofuranosylmannan, possibly an oligomer, bearing a 2-α-Manp main chain linked to β-Galf (1,3) andmore » α-Manp (1,6) end units. The results also suggested the presence of small amounts of a (1→6)- Manp polymer, (1→3)-glucan and (1→6)-glucan. Glycan microarrays allowed identification of EV surface lectin(s), while plant lectin microarray profiling revealed terminal Man and GlcNAc residues exposed at the EVs surface. Mammalian lectin microarray profiling showed that DC-SIGN receptors recognized surface carbohydrate in Paracoccidioides EVs. Our results suggest that oligosaccharides, cytoplasmic storage, and cell wall polysaccharides can be exported in fungal EVs, which also expose surface PAMPs and lectins. As a result, the role of these newly identified components in the interaction with the host remains to be unraveled.« less

Role of Exposed Surfaces on Zinc Oxide Nanostructures in the Catalytic Ethanol Transformation.

PubMed

Morales, María V; Asedegbega-Nieto, Esther; Iglesias-Juez, Ana; Rodríguez-Ramos, Inmaculada; Guerrero-Ruiz, Antonio

2015-07-08

For a series of nanometric ZnO materials, the relationship between their morphological and surface functionalities and their catalytic properties in the selective decomposition of ethanol to yield acetaldehyde was explored. Six ZnO solids were prepared by a microemulsion-precipitation method and the thermal decomposition of different precursors and compared with a commercial sample. All these materials were characterized intensively by XRD and SEM to obtain their morphological specificities. Additionally, surface area determinations and IR spectroscopy were used to detect differences in the surface properties. The density of acid surface sites was determined quantitatively using an isopropanol dehydration test. Based on these characterization studies and on the results of the catalytic tests, it has been established that ZnO basal surfaces seem to be responsible for the production of ethylene as a minor product as well as for secondary reactions that yield acetyl acetate. Furthermore, one specific type of exposed hydroxyl groups appears to govern the surface catalytic properties. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Fiber optic device for sensing the presence of a gas

DOEpatents

Benson, David K.; Bechinger, Clemens S.; Tracy, C. Edwin

1998-01-01

A fiber-optic device for sensing the presence of a gas in an environment is provided. The device comprises a light source for directing a light beam to a layer system having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface. The first surface is exposable to the light beam and the second surface is exposable to the environment. A first light portion encounters and reflects from the first surface at an angle of incidence free from optical wave guide resonance phenomenon and the second light portion encounters and reflects from the first surface at an angle of incidence enabling an optical wave guide resonance phenomenon. The layer system is selected to reversibly react with the gas to be detected. The reaction between the gas and the material changes the material's optical properties and the wavelength at which the optical wave guide resonance occurs. Furthermore, a mechanism for measuring the intensity of the reflected first light portion relative to the reflected second light portion is provided with the ratio of the first and second light portions indicating the concentration of the gas presence in the environment.

Using the Geminids to Characterize the Surface Response of an Airless Body to Meteoroid Bombardment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Szalay, J.; Pokorny, P.; Jenniskens, P. M. M.; Horanyi, M.

2017-12-01

All airless bodies in the solar system are exposed to the continual bombardment by interplanetary meteoroids. These impacts can eject orders of magnitude more mass than the primary impactors, sustaining bound and/or unbound ejecta clouds that vary both spatially and temporally from changes in impactor fluxes. The dust environment in the vicinity of an airless body provides both a scientific resource and a hazard for exploration. Characterizing the spatial and temporal variability of the dust environment of airless planetary bodies provides a novel way to understand their meteoroid environment by effectively using these objects as large surface area meteoroid detectors. Additionally, were a dust detector with chemical sensing capability to be flown near such a body, it would be able to directly measure the composition of the body without requiring the mission design complexity involved in landing and sampling surface material. Paramount to understanding the current and future impact ejecta measurements is a sufficient understanding of the impact ejecta processes at the surface. In this presentation, we focus on data taken by the Lunar Dust Experiment (LDEX), an impact ionization dust detector onboard the Lunar Atmosphere and Dust Environment Explorer (LADEE) mission, designed to measure impact ejecta around the Moon. We use the Geminids meteoroid shower as a well constrained input function, and via comparison to existing ground-based measurements of this shower, to "calibrate" the response of the lunar surface to meteoroid bombardment. Understanding the response of the lunar surface to meteoroid bombardment can by extension allow us to better understand the ejecta response at other regolith airless bodies in the solar system. Future missions equipped with dust detectors sent to the Moon, large Near Earth Asteroids, the Martian moons Phobos and Deimos, or many other airless bodies in the solar system would greatly improve our knowledge of their local meteoroid environments, characterize their chemical compositions, and improve the safety for future manned and unmanned missions to these bodies.

43 CFR 11.63 - Injury determination phase-pathway determination.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

...; and (C) Depth of exposed bed, bank, or shoreline sediments. (ii) As appropriate to the exposed... adhered to, bound to, or otherwise covered surface tissue, or was ingested, or inhaled but not assimilated, the area of dispersion may be determined based upon chemical analysis of the appropriate tissues or...

43 CFR 11.63 - Injury determination phase-pathway determination.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

...; and (C) Depth of exposed bed, bank, or shoreline sediments. (ii) As appropriate to the exposed... adhered to, bound to, or otherwise covered surface tissue, or was ingested, or inhaled but not assimilated, the area of dispersion may be determined based upon chemical analysis of the appropriate tissues or...

43 CFR 11.63 - Injury determination phase-pathway determination.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

...; and (C) Depth of exposed bed, bank, or shoreline sediments. (ii) As appropriate to the exposed... adhered to, bound to, or otherwise covered surface tissue, or was ingested, or inhaled but not assimilated, the area of dispersion may be determined based upon chemical analysis of the appropriate tissues or...

30 CFR 77.508 - Lightning arresters, ungrounded and exposed power conductors and telephone wires.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Lightning arresters, ungrounded and exposed... AND SURFACE WORK AREAS OF UNDERGROUND COAL MINES Electrical Equipment-General § 77.508 Lightning... conductors and telephone wires shall be equipped with suitable lightning arresters which are adequately...

30 CFR 77.508 - Lightning arresters, ungrounded and exposed power conductors and telephone wires.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Lightning arresters, ungrounded and exposed... AND SURFACE WORK AREAS OF UNDERGROUND COAL MINES Electrical Equipment-General § 77.508 Lightning... conductors and telephone wires shall be equipped with suitable lightning arresters which are adequately...

30 CFR 77.508 - Lightning arresters, ungrounded and exposed power conductors and telephone wires.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Lightning arresters, ungrounded and exposed... AND SURFACE WORK AREAS OF UNDERGROUND COAL MINES Electrical Equipment-General § 77.508 Lightning... conductors and telephone wires shall be equipped with suitable lightning arresters which are adequately...

PARTICLE NUMBER AND SURFACE CHARGE PREDICT THE BIOLOGICAL ACTIVATION OF HUMAN BRONCHIAL EPITHELIAL CELLS EXPOSED TO PARTICULATE MATTER.

EPA Science Inventory

Exposure to particulate matter (PM) produces a uniform degree of mortality in exposed populations, in spite of its diverse sources. This suggests a common mechanism of action to explain its initial toxicity. The present study relates certain physicochemical characteristics (i.e.,...

Work function measurements during plasma exposition at conditions relevant in negative ion sources for the ITER neutral beam injection.

PubMed

Gutser, R; Wimmer, C; Fantz, U

2011-02-01

Cesium seeded sources for surface generated negative hydrogen ions are major components of neutral beam injection systems in future large-scale fusion experiments such as ITER. The stability and delivered current density depend highly on the work function during vacuum and plasma phases of the ion source. One of the most important quantities that affect the source performance is the work function. A modified photocurrent method was developed to measure the temporal behavior of the work function during and after cesium evaporation. The investigation of cesium exposed Mo and MoLa samples under ITER negative hydrogen ion based neutral beam injection relevant surface and plasma conditions showed the influence of impurities which result in a fast degradation when the plasma exposure or the cesium flux onto the sample is stopped. A minimum work function close to that of bulk cesium was obtained under the influence of the plasma exposition, while a significantly higher work function was observed under ITER-like vacuum conditions.

The effect of sedimentation and diffusion on cellular uptake of gold nanoparticles

PubMed Central

Cho, Eun Chul; Zhang, Qiang; Xia, Younan

2011-01-01

In vitro experiments typically measure the uptake of nanoparticles by exposing cells at the bottom of a culture plate to a suspension of nanoparticles, which is assumed to be well-dispersed. However, nanoparticles can sediment and this means the concentration of particles on the cell surface and those actually taken up by the cells may be higher than the initial bulk concentration. Here we use upright and inverted cell culture configurations to show that cellular uptake of gold nanoparticles depends on the sedimentation and diffusion velocities of the nanoparticles and is independent of size, shape, density, surface coating and initial concentration of the nanoparticles. Generally more nanoparticles are taken up in the upright configuration than the inverted one and nanoparticles that sediment faster showed greater differences in uptake between the two configurations. Our results suggest that cellular uptake of nanoparticles is sensitive to the way cells are positioned and sedimentation need to be considered when performing in vitro studies for large and heavy nanoparticles. PMID:21516092

Water-tunnel experiments on an oscillating airfoil at RE equals 21,000

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mcalister, K. W.; Carr, L. W.

1978-01-01

Flow visualization experiments were performed in a water tunnel on a modified NACA 0012 airfoil undergoing large amplitude harmonic oscillations in pitch. Hydrogen bubbles were used to: (1) create a conveniently striated and well preserved set of inviscid flow markers; and (2) to expose the succession of events occurring within the viscous domain during the onset of dynamic stall. Unsteady effects were shown to have an important influence on the progression of flow reversal along the airfoil surface prior to stall. A region of reversed flow underlying a free shear layer was found to momentarily exist over the entire upper surface without any appreciable disturbance of the viscous-inviscid boundary. A flow protuberance was observed to develop near the leading edge, while minor vortices evolve from an expanding instability of the free shear layer over the rear portion of the airfoil. The complete breakdown of this shear layer culminates in the successive formation of two dominant vortices.

Cytotoxic Helix-Rich Oligomer Formation by Melittin and Pancreatic Polypeptide

PubMed Central

Singh, Pradeep K.; Ghosh, Dhiman; Tewari, Debanjan; Mohite, Ganesh M.; Carvalho, Edmund; Jha, Narendra Nath; Jacob, Reeba S.; Sahay, Shruti; Banerjee, Rinti; Bera, Amal K.; Maji, Samir K.

2015-01-01

Conversion of amyloid fibrils by many peptides/proteins involves cytotoxic helix-rich oligomers. However, their toxicity and biophysical studies remain largely unknown due to their highly dynamic nature. To address this, we chose two helical peptides (melittin, Mel and pancreatic polypeptide, PP) and studied their aggregation and toxicity. Mel converted its random coil structure to oligomeric helical structure upon binding to heparin; however, PP remained as helix after oligomerization. Interestingly, similar to Parkinson’s associated α-synuclein (AS) oligomers, Mel and PP also showed tinctorial properties, higher hydrophobic surface exposure, cellular toxicity and membrane pore formation after oligomerization in the presence of heparin. We suggest that helix-rich oligomers with exposed hydrophobic surface are highly cytotoxic to cells irrespective of their disease association. Moreover as Mel and PP (in the presence of heparin) instantly self-assemble into stable helix-rich amyloidogenic oligomers; they could be represented as models for understanding the biophysical and cytotoxic properties of helix-rich intermediates in detail. PMID:25803428

Folding of a detachment and fault - Modified detachment folding along a lateral ramp, southwestern Montana, USA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schmidt, Christopher; Whisner, S. Christopher; Whisner, Jennifer B.

2014-12-01

The inversion of the Middle Proterozoic Belt sedimentary basin during Late Cretaceous thrusting in Montana produced a large eastwardly-convex salient, the southern boundary of which is a 200 km-long oblique to lateral ramp subtended by a detachment between the Belt rocks and Archean basement. A 10 km-long lateral ramp segment exposes the upper levels of the detachment where hanging wall Belt rocks have moved out over the Paleozoic and Mesozoic section. The hanging wall structure consists of a train of high amplitude, faulted, asymmetrical detachment folds. Initial west-east shortening produced layer parallel shortening fabrics and dominantly strike slip faulting followed by symmetrical detachment folding. 'Lock-up' of movement on the detachment surface produced regional simple shear and caused the detachment folds to become asymmetrical and faulted. Folding of the detachment surface after lock-up modified the easternmost detachment folds further into a southeast-verging, overturned fold pair with a ramp-related fault along the base of the stretched mutual limb.

Multiple large earthquakes in the past 1500 years on a fault in metropolitan Manila, the Philippines

USGS Publications Warehouse

Nelson, A.R.; Personius, S.F.; Rimando, R.E.; Punongbayan, R.S.; Tungol, N.; Mirabueno, H.; Rasdas, A.

2000-01-01

The first 14C-based paleoseismic study of an active fault in the Philippines shows that a right-lateral fault on the northeast edge of metropolitan Manila poses a greater seismic hazard than previously thought. Faulted hillslope colluvium, stream-channel alluvium, and debris-flow deposits exposed in trenches across the northern part of the west Marikina Valley fault record two or three surface-faulting events. Three eroded, clay-rich soil B horizons suggest thousands of years between surface faulting events, whereas 14C ages on detrital charcoal constrain the entire stratigraphic sequence to the past 1300-1700 years. We rely on the 14C ages to infer faulting recurrence of hundreds rather than thousands of years. Minimal soil development and modern 14C ages from colluvium overlying a faulted debris-flow deposit in a nearby stream exposure point to a historic age for a probable third or fourth (most recent) faulting event.

On the interaction between ocean surface waves and seamounts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sosa, Jeison; Cavaleri, Luigi; Portilla-Yandún, Jesús

2017-12-01

Of the many topographic features, more specifically seamounts, that are ubiquitous in the ocean floor, we focus our attention on those with relatively shallow summits that can interact with wind-generated surface waves. Among these, especially relatively long waves crossing the oceans (swells) and stormy seas are able to affect the water column up to a considerable depth and therefore interact with these deep-sea features. We quantify this interaction through numerical experiments using a numerical wave model (SWAN), in which a simply shaped seamount is exposed to waves of different length. The results show a strong interaction that leads to significant changes in the wave field, creating wake zones and regions of large wave amplification. This is then exemplified in a practical case where we analyze the interaction of more realistic sea conditions with a very shallow rock in the Yellow Sea. Potentially important for navigation and erosion processes, mutatis mutandis, these results are also indicative of possible interactions with emerged islands and sand banks in shelf seas.

Plastic shrinkage of mortars with shrinkage reducing admixture and lightweight aggregates studied by neutron tomography

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

Wyrzykowski, Mateusz, E-mail: mateusz.wyrzykowski@empa.ch; Lodz University of Technology, Department of Building Physics and Building Materials, Lodz; Trtik, Pavel

2015-07-15

Water transport in fresh, highly permeable concrete and rapid water evaporation from the concrete surface during the first few hours after placement are the key parameters influencing plastic shrinkage cracking. In this work, neutron tomography was used to determine both the water loss from the concrete surface due to evaporation and the redistribution of fluid that occurs in fresh mortars exposed to external drying. In addition to the reference mortar with a water to cement ratio (w/c) of 0.30, a mortar with the addition of pre-wetted lightweight aggregates (LWA) and a mortar with a shrinkage reducing admixture (SRA) were tested.more » The addition of SRA reduced the evaporation rate from the mortar at the initial stages of drying and reduced the total water loss. The pre-wetted LWA released a large part of the absorbed water as a consequence of capillary pressure developing in the fresh mortar due to evaporation.« less

Sediment Transport and Landscape Evolution on Comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Birch, S.; Umurhan, O. M.; Hayes, A.; Tang, Y.; Moore, J. M.; White, O. L.

2017-12-01

New observations from ESA's Rosetta orbiter of comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko (67P) have revolutionized our understanding of these primitive bodies and the processes that act to modify their surfaces. Centimeter to meter scale images of the surface of 67P have revealed a diverse sedimentary world, where the dominant landforms consist of vertical, consolidated cliffs and pits interspersed, and in the northern hemisphere buried, by smooth, decameter thick sedimentary deposits. Sublimation erosion, in the form of jets, from exposed cliff faces acts to break off parts of the weakened bedrock material, which then accumulate as mass wasting deposits at the cliff bases. The large boulders within these deposits may also contribute to the jets, as volatiles in exposed faces of the boulders, previously hidden from the Sun, can sublimate away. During a jet event, the less volatile material that does not escape the comet falls back and drapes the rocky surface as smooth deposits. This is particularly evident in the northern hemisphere of 67P and within gravitational lows, where the underlying consolidated material appears to outcrop from underneath a vast cover of sedimentary deposits. These sedimentary materials, having a low thermal inertia, counteracts the erosive process, and allows for the surface of 67P to retain a relatively primitive form to the current day. To understand this process quantitatively, and constrain over what timescale(s) the surface of 67P evolves, we utilized high-resolution photoclinometry digital terrain models ( 14 cm/pixel), and the MARSSIM landscape evolution model, adapted for a low, and variable gravity environment. Perfectly suited to model sublimation erosion and mass-wasting, MARSSIM also allows us to track the re-condensation of non-volatile materials to accurately account for the important feedback played by the sedimentary deposits. These simulations will allow for us to constrain the rates of landscape evolution on 67P, to compare directly to observations of dynamic changes on the nucleus. Through this work, we will also be able to assess the question of whether 67P is primitive or not, using reasonable assumptions as to the volatility and strength of the bedrock materials.

Anatase TiO2 single crystals with dominant {0 0 1} facets: Synthesis, shape-control mechanism and photocatalytic activity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tong, Huifen; Zhou, Yingying; Chang, Gang; Li, Pai; Zhu, Ruizhi; He, Yunbin

2018-06-01

Anatase TiO2 micro-crystals with 51% surface exposing highly active {0 0 1} facets are prepared by hydrothermal synthesis using TiF4 as Ti resource and HF as morphology control agent. In addition, anatase TiO2 single crystals exposing large {0 0 1} crystal facets are facilely synthesized with "green" NaF plus HCl replacing HF for the morphology control. A series of comparative experiments are carried out for separately studying the effects of F- and H+ concentrations on the growth of TiO2 crystals, which have not been understood very much in depth so far. The results indicate that both F- and H+ synergistically affect the synthesis of truncated anatase octahedrons, where F- is preferentially adsorbed on the {0 0 1} facets resulting in lateral growth of these facets and H+ adjusts the growth rate of anatase TiO2 along different orientations by tuning the hydrolysis rate. Based on this information, anatase TiO2 single crystals with small size (1.3 μm) and large exposure of {0 0 1} facets (45%) are successfully prepared under optimal conditions ([H+]/[F-] = 20:1). Photocatalytic activities of the as-prepared products toward methylene blue photo-degradation are further tested. It is revealed that both crystal size and percentage of {0 0 1} facets are decisive for the photocatalytic performance, and the crystals with a small size (1.3 μm) and large exposure of {0 0 1} facets (45%) are catalytically most active. This work has clarified the main factors that control the growth process and morphology of anatase TiO2 single crystals for achieving superior photocatalytic properties.

The Interplay between Entamoeba and Enteropathogenic Bacteria Modulates Epithelial Cell Damage

PubMed Central

Galván-Moroyoqui, José Manuel; Domínguez-Robles, M. del Carmen; Franco, Elizabeth; Meza, Isaura

2008-01-01

Background Mixed intestinal infections with Entamoeba histolytica, Entamoeba dispar and bacteria with exacerbated manifestations of disease are common in regions where amoebiasis is endemic. However, amoeba–bacteria interactions remain largely unexamined. Methodology Trophozoites of E. histolytica and E. dispar were co-cultured with enteropathogenic bacteria strains Escherichia coli (EPEC), Shigella dysenteriae and a commensal Escherichia coli. Amoebae that phagocytosed bacteria were tested for a cytopathic effect on epithelial cell monolayers. Cysteine proteinase activity, adhesion and cell surface concentration of Gal/GalNAc lectin were analyzed in amoebae showing increased virulence. Structural and functional changes and induction of IL-8 expression were determined in epithelial cells before and after exposure to bacteria. Chemotaxis of amoebae and neutrophils to human IL-8 and conditioned culture media from epithelial cells exposed to bacteria was quantified. Principal Findings E. histolytica digested phagocytosed bacteria, although S. dysenteriae retained 70% viability after ingestion. Phagocytosis of pathogenic bacteria augmented the cytopathic effect of E. histolytica and increased expression of Gal/GalNAc lectin on the amoebic surface and increased cysteine proteinase activity. E. dispar remained avirulent. Adhesion of amoebae and damage to cells exposed to bacteria were increased. Additional increases were observed if amoebae had phagocytosed bacteria. Co-culture of epithelial cells with enteropathogenic bacteria disrupted monolayer permeability and induced expression of IL-8. Media from these co-cultures and human recombinant IL-8 were similarly chemotactic for neutrophils and E. histolytica. Conclusions Epithelial monolayers exposed to enteropathogenic bacteria become more susceptible to E. histolytica damage. At the same time, phagocytosis of pathogenic bacteria by amoebae further increased epithelial cell damage. Significance The in vitro system presented here provides evidence that the Entamoeba/enteropathogenic bacteria interplay modulates epithelial cell responses to the pathogens. In mixed intestinal infections, where such interactions are possible, they could influence the outcome of disease. The results offer insights to continue research on this phenomenon. PMID:18648517

Mapping large extensions of flat dentin through digital microscopy: introduction to the method and possible applications.

PubMed

Reis, Claudia; De-Deus, Gustavo; Marins, Juliana; Fidel, Sandra; Fidel, Rivail; Paciornik, Sidnei

2012-08-01

To introduce a mapping method to characterize large dentin surfaces using digital microscopy and to discuss the advantages and possible applications of the method. Twenty unerupted third molars were sectioned transversally exposing coronal dentin surfaces. The microscopic mosaic method was used to generate a large field image with the resolution necessary to measure characteristics of dentin tubules. The AxioVision 4.7 software was used to control a motorized optical microscope and the process of acquiring approximately 400 small images to generate each dentin mosaic. An image analysis routine measured the number of tubules (NT) and the ratio between the total area of tubules and the area of the mosaic - the area fraction (AF) - of each mosaic. An automatic procedure transformed the mosaic image into a color map, providing a direct visual representation of tubule density through colors. The dentin maps were used for a comparative qualitative analysis of tubule density distribution of each sample. The results for NT (92450 to 196029 tubules/sample) and AF (4.12% to 11.10%) demonstrated a wide variation among dentin samples. The maps confirmed the microstructure variety, also revealing strong local variations in tubule density within each sample. The mapping method was able to perform dentin morphology characterization and is a valuable tool for producing a baseline for dentin adhesion studies. The method could be also useful in determining the real contribution of dentin structures to the final adhesion quality.

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

Yang, T.F.; Lee, A.Y.; Ruck, G.W.

A feasible compact poloidal divertor system has been designed as an impurity control and vacuum vessel first-wall protection option for the TNS tokamak. The divertor coils are inside the TF coil array and vacuum vessel. The poloidal divertor is formed by a pair of coil sets with zero net current. Each set consists of a number of coils forming a dish-shaped washer-like ring. The magnetic flux in the space between the coil sets is compressed vertically to limit the height and to expand the horizontal width of the particle and energy burial chamber which is located in the gap betweenmore » the coil sets. The intensity of the poloidal field is increased to make the pitch angle of the flux lines very large so that the diverted particles can be intercepted by a large number of panels oriented at a small angle with respect to the flux lines. They are carefully shaped and designed such that the entire surfaces are exposed to the incident particles and are not shadowed by each other. Large collecting surface areas can be obtained. Flowing liquid lithium film and solid metal panels have been considered as the particle collectors. The power density for the former is designed at 1 MW/m/sup 2/ and for the latter 0.5 MW/m/sup 2/. The major mechanical, thermal, and vacuum problems have been evaluated in sufficient detail so that the advantages and difficulties are identified. A complete functional picture is presented.« less

FORMALDEHYDE GAS INACTIVATION OF BACILLUS ANTHRACIS, BACILLUS SUBTILIS AND GEOBACILLUS STEAROTHERMOPHILUS SPORES ON INDOOR SURFACE MATERIALS.

EPA Science Inventory

Research evaluated the decontamination of Bacillus anthracis, Bacillus subtilis, and Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores on indoor surface material using formaldehyde gas. Spores were dried on seven types of indoor surfaces and exposed to 1100 ppm formaldehyde gas for 10 hr. Fo...

Efficacy of pyriproxyfen for control of stored-product psocids (Psocoptera) on concrete surfaces

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The insect growth regulator pyriproxyfen was evaluated as a surface treatment for control of three stored-product psocid pests, Liposcelis bostrychophila Badonnel, L. decolor (Pearman), and L. paeta Pearman (Psocoptera: Liposcelididae). Nymphs were exposed for 35 d on a concrete surface treated with...

A study of the UV and VUV degradation of FEP

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

George, Graeme A.; Hill, David J. T.; Odonnell, James H.; Pomery, Peter J.; Rasoul, Firas A.

1993-01-01

UV and VUV degradation of fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP) copolymer was studied using electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopy, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The ESR study revealed the formation of a terminal polymer radical. The stability of this radical was investigated under different environments. An XPS study of FEP film exposed to VUV and atomic oxygen showed that oxidation takes place on the polymer surface. The study revealed also that the percentage of CF2 in the polymer surface decreased with exposure time and the percentage of CF, CF3, and carbon attached to oxygen increased. SEM micrographs of FEP film exposed to VUV and atomic oxygen identified a rough surface with undulations similar to sand dunes.

Nanostructured carbon materials for adsorption of methane and other gases

DOEpatents

Stadie, Nicholas P.; Fultz, Brent T.; Ahn, Channing; Murialdo, Maxwell

2015-06-30

Provided are methods for storing gases on porous adsorbents, methods for optimizing the storage of gases on porous adsorbents, methods of making porous adsorbents, and methods of gas storage of optimized compositions, as in systems containing porous adsorbents and gas adsorbed on the surface of the porous adsorbent. The disclosed methods and systems feature a constant or increasing isosteric enthalpy of adsorption as a function of uptake of the gas onto the exposed surface of a porous adsorbent. Adsorbents with a porous geometry and surface dimensions suited to a particular adsorbate are exposed to the gas at elevated pressures in the specific regime where n/V (density) is larger than predicted by the ideal gas law by more than several percent.

Spallation modeling in the Charring Material Thermal Response and Ablation (CMA) computer program

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sullivan, J. M.; Kobayashi, W. S.

1987-06-01

It has been observed during tests of certain laminated composite materials exposed to relatively high continuous wave laser irradiation, that the heated surface will spall. To model this phenomenon, the Charring Material Thermal Response and Ablation code has been updated. In addition to temperature response, in-depth decomposition, and surface recession, thermal and mechanical stresses are calculated. Spall is modeled as a discrete mass removal event occurring when the stresses exceed the ultimate strength of the char through a critical depth. Comparisons are made with test data for a carbon phenolic cylinder exposed to a shock tube environment and for a flat plate Kevlar epoxy test specimen exposed to high intensity laser irradiation. Good agreement is shown; however, the results indicate a requirement for more comprehensive elevated-temperature material properties for further validation.

Fabrication of High-Temperature Heat Exchangers by Plasma Spraying Exterior Skins on Nickel Foams

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hafeez, P.; Yugeswaran, S.; Chandra, S.; Mostaghimi, J.; Coyle, T. W.

2016-06-01

Thermal-sprayed heat exchangers were tested at high temperatures (750 °C), and their performances were compared to the foam heat exchangers made by brazing Inconel sheets to their surface. Nickel foil was brazed to the exterior surface of 10-mm-thick layers of 10 and 40 PPI nickel foam. A plasma torch was used to spray an Inconel coating on the surface of the foil. A burner test rig was built to produce hot combustion gases that flowed over exposed face of the heat exchanger. Cooling air flowed through the foam heat exchanger at rates of up to 200 SLPM. Surface temperature and air inlet/exit temperature were measured. Heat transfer to air flowing through the foam was significantly higher for the thermally sprayed heat exchangers than for the brazed heat exchangers. On an average, thermally sprayed heat exchangers show 36% higher heat transfer than conventionally brazed foam heat exchangers. At low flow rates, the convective resistance is large (~4 × 10-2 m2 K/W), and the effect of thermal contact resistance is negligible. At higher flow rates, the convective resistance decreases (~2 × 10-3 m2 K/W), and the lower contact resistance of the thermally sprayed heat exchanger provides better performance than the brazed heat exchangers.

Influence of femtosecond laser produced nanostructures on biofilm growth on steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Epperlein, Nadja; Menzel, Friederike; Schwibbert, Karin; Koter, Robert; Bonse, Jörn; Sameith, Janin; Krüger, Jörg; Toepel, Jörg

2017-10-01

Biofilm formation poses high risks in multiple industrial and medical settings. However, the robust nature of biofilms makes them also attractive for industrial applications where cell biocatalysts are increasingly in use. Since tailoring material properties that affect bacterial growth or its inhibition is gaining attention, here we focus on the effects of femtosecond laser produced nanostructures on bacterial adhesion. Large area periodic surface structures were generated on steel surfaces using 30-fs laser pulses at 790 nm wavelength. Two types of steel exhibiting a different corrosion resistance were used, i.e., a plain structural steel (corrodible) and a stainless steel (resistant to corrosion). Homogeneous fields of laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) were realized utilizing laser fluences close to the ablation threshold while scanning the sample under the focused laser beam in a multi-pulse regime. The nanostructures were characterized with optical and scanning electron microscopy. For each type of steel, more than ten identical samples were laser-processed. Subsequently, the samples were subjected to microbial adhesion tests. Bacteria of different shape and adhesion behavior (Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus) were exposed to laser structures and to polished reference surfaces. Our results indicate that E. coli preferentially avoids adhesion to the LIPSS-covered areas, whereas S. aureus favors these areas for colonization.

Astrobiology of Jupiter's icy moons

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lipps, Jere H.; Delory, Gregory; Pitman, Joseph T.; Rieboldt, Sarah

2004-11-01

Jupiter's Icy Moons, Europa, Ganymede and Callisto, may possess energy sources, biogenic molecules, and oceans below their icy crusts, thus indicating a strong possibility that they were abodes for present or past life. Life in Earth's icy areas lives in a wide variety of habitats associated with the ice, in the water column below the ice, and on the floor of the ocean below the ice. Similar habitats may exist on JIM, have been transported to the icy crust, and be exposed in tectonic or impact features. Europa has a young, dynamic surface with many outcrops exposing older ice, fresh ice, possible materials from the subsurface ocean, and a few impact craters. Ganymede has older, darker, tectonized terrains surrounded by light ice. Callisto has a much older, heavily impacted surface devoid of significant tectonic structures. Past and present life habitats may be exposed in these features, making Europa the most favorable target while Ganymede is of interest, and Callisto seems more unlikely to have detectable life. A proper search strategy requires detailed orbital imaging and spectrometry of the likely places, and surface data collection with microscopic, spectrometric, and biochemical instruments.

Is Obsidian Hydration Dating Affected by Relative Humidity?

USGS Publications Warehouse

Friedman, I.; Trembour, F.W.; Smith, G.I.; Smith, F.L.

1994-01-01

Experiments carried out under temperatures and relative humidities that approximate ambient conditions show that the rate of hydration of obsidian is a function of the relative humidity, as well as of previously established variables of temperature and obsidian chemical composition. Measurements of the relative humidity of soil at 25 sites and at depths of between 0.01 and 2 m below ground show that in most soil environments, at depths below about 0.25 m, the relative humidity is constant at 100%. We have found that the thickness of the hydrated layer developed on obsidian outcrops exposed to the sun and to relative humidities of 30-90% is similar to that formed on other portions of the outcrop that were shielded from the sun and exposed to a relative humidity of approximately 100%. Surface samples of obsidian exposed to solar heating should hydrate more rapidly than samples buried in the ground. However, the effect of the lower mean relative humidity experiences by surface samples tends to compensate for the elevated temperature, which may explain why obsidian hydration ages of surface samples usually approximate those derived from buried samples.

A novel and sensitive fluorescence sensor for glutathione detection by controlling the surface passivation degree of carbon quantum dots.

PubMed

Pan, Jiahong; Zheng, Zengyao; Yang, Jianying; Wu, Yaoyu; Lu, Fushen; Chen, Yaowen; Gao, Wenhua

2017-05-01

A novel fluorescence sensor based on controlling the surface passivation degree of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) was developed for glutathione (GSH) detection. First, we found that the fluorescence intensity of the CQDs which was obtained by directly pyrolyzing citric acid would increased largely after the surface passivation treatment by 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-carbodiimide (EDC). In the light of this phenomenon, we designed a simple, rapid and selective fluorescence sensor based on the surface passivated CQDs. A certain and excess amount of EDC were mixed with GSH, part of EDC would form a stable complex with GSH owing to the exposed sulfhydryl group of GSH. As the synthesized CQDs were added into the above mixture solution, the fluorescence intensity of the (EDC/GSH)/CQDs mixture solution could be directly related to the amount of GSH. Compared to other fluorescence analytical methods, the fluorescence sensor we design is neither the traditional fluorescent "turn on" probes nor "turn off" probes. It is a new fluorescence analytical method that target object indirectly control the surface passivation degree of CQDs so that it can realize the detection of the target object. Moreover, the proposed method manifested great advantages including short analysis time, low cost and ease of operation. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Large Block Test Final Report

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

Lin, W

2001-12-01

This report documents the Large-Block Test (LBT) conducted at Fran Ridge near Yucca Mountain, Nevada. The LBT was a thermal test conducted on an exposed block of middle non-lithophysal Topopah Spring tuff (Tptpmn) and was designed to assist in understanding the thermal-hydrological-mechanical-chemical (THMC) processes associated with heating and then cooling a partially saturated fractured rock mass. The LBT was unique in that it was a large (3 x 3 x 4.5 m) block with top and sides exposed. Because the block was exposed at the surface, boundary conditions on five of the six sides of the block were relatively wellmore » known and controlled, making this test both easier to model and easier to monitor. This report presents a detailed description of the test as well as analyses of the data and conclusions drawn from the test. The rock block that was tested during the LBT was exposed by excavation and removal of the surrounding rock. The block was characterized and instrumented, and the sides were sealed and insulated to inhibit moisture and heat loss. Temperature on the top of the block was also controlled. The block was heated for 13 months, during which time temperature, moisture distribution, and deformation were monitored. After the test was completed and the block cooled down, a series of boreholes were drilled, and one of the heater holes was over-cored to collect samples for post-test characterization of mineralogy and mechanical properties. Section 2 provides background on the test. Section 3 lists the test objectives and describes the block site, the site configuration, and measurements made during the test. Section 3 also presents a chronology of events associated with the LBT, characterization of the block, and the pre-heat analyses of the test. Section 4 describes the fracture network contained in the block. Section 5 describes the heating/cooling system used to control the temperature in the block and presents the thermal history of the block during the test. Sections 5 through 9 report the measurements made on the block during the preheating, heating, and cooling phases. These measurements include temperature, thermal conductivity and diffusivity, hydrological measurements (electrical resistivity, neutron logging, gas pressure, and relative humidity), geomechanics, selected chemical analyses, and microbial activity. These sections also include analyses and simulations of the block behavior. Finally, conclusions are presented in Section 10. Complete data sets were submitted during the time the test was conducted. The data tracking numbers (DTNs) of all of the data are presented in Table 1-1.« less

Global transcriptomic analysis of model human cell lines exposed to surface-modified gold nanoparticles: the effect of surface chemistry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grzincic, E. M.; Yang, J. A.; Drnevich, J.; Falagan-Lotsch, P.; Murphy, C. J.

2015-01-01

Gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) are attractive for biomedical applications not only for their remarkable physical properties, but also for the ease of which their surface chemistry can be manipulated. Many applications involve functionalization of the Au NP surface in order to improve biocompatibility, attach targeting ligands or carry drugs. However, changes in cells exposed to Au NPs of different surface chemistries have been observed, and little is known about how Au NPs and their surface coatings may impact cellular gene expression. The gene expression of two model human cell lines, human dermal fibroblasts (HDF) and prostate cancer cells (PC3) was interrogated by microarray analysis of over 14 000 human genes. The cell lines were exposed to four differently functionalized Au NPs: citrate, poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH), and lipid coatings combined with alkanethiols or PAH. Gene functional annotation categories and weighted gene correlation network analysis were used in order to connect gene expression changes to common cellular functions and to elucidate expression patterns between Au NP samples. Coated Au NPs affect genes implicated in proliferation, angiogenesis, and metabolism in HDF cells, and inflammation, angiogenesis, proliferation apoptosis regulation, survival and invasion in PC3 cells. Subtle changes in surface chemistry, such as the initial net charge, lability of the ligand, and underlying layers greatly influence the degree of expression change and the type of cellular pathway affected.Gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) are attractive for biomedical applications not only for their remarkable physical properties, but also for the ease of which their surface chemistry can be manipulated. Many applications involve functionalization of the Au NP surface in order to improve biocompatibility, attach targeting ligands or carry drugs. However, changes in cells exposed to Au NPs of different surface chemistries have been observed, and little is known about how Au NPs and their surface coatings may impact cellular gene expression. The gene expression of two model human cell lines, human dermal fibroblasts (HDF) and prostate cancer cells (PC3) was interrogated by microarray analysis of over 14 000 human genes. The cell lines were exposed to four differently functionalized Au NPs: citrate, poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH), and lipid coatings combined with alkanethiols or PAH. Gene functional annotation categories and weighted gene correlation network analysis were used in order to connect gene expression changes to common cellular functions and to elucidate expression patterns between Au NP samples. Coated Au NPs affect genes implicated in proliferation, angiogenesis, and metabolism in HDF cells, and inflammation, angiogenesis, proliferation apoptosis regulation, survival and invasion in PC3 cells. Subtle changes in surface chemistry, such as the initial net charge, lability of the ligand, and underlying layers greatly influence the degree of expression change and the type of cellular pathway affected. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: UV-Vis spectra of Au NPs, the most significantly changed genes of HDF cells after Au NP incubation under GO accession number GO:0007049 ``cell cycle'', detailed information about the primer/probe sets used for RT-PCR validation of results. See DOI: 10.1039/c4nr05166a