Sample records for mild explosive activity

  1. Conduit Wall Failure as a Trigger for Transition From Strombolian to Phreatomagmatic Explosive Activity in the Cova de Paúl Crater Eruption on Santo Antão, Cape Verde Islands

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tarff, R. W.; Day, S. J.

    2011-12-01

    Episodes of hazardous phreatomagmatic explosive activity, including Surtseyan activity, occur within otherwise less dangerous effusive to mildly explosive magmatic eruptions at high-elevation vents on many oceanic island volcanoes. The water driving these explosions is sourced from freshwater aquifers within the volcanic edifices. Understanding volcanic and geophysical precursors to, and mechanisms of, the (frequently abrupt) transitions to explosive activity is required as a basis for effective warning and mitigation of the resulting hazards. Here we describe near-vent deposits around the large Cova de Paúl crater on the island of Santo Antão, Cape Verde Islands, which provide some insights into a transition from mild magmatic to violently explosive phreatomagmatic activity in one such eruption. This pre-historic but well-preserved crater formed in a single eruption that produced extensive low-temperature, lithic-rich phreatomagmatic pyroclastic flows and surge deposits; these are interbedded in proximal outcrops with airfall breccia and ash beds containing varying proportions of lithic and juvenile clasts, pointing to a series of climactic explosions within an extended period of milder explosive activity of broadly Surtseyan type. Prior to the transition to phreatomagmatic activity, the eruption had been characterized by mild Strombolian activity that produced scoria and spatter deposits of broadly tephritic composition. The Strombolian deposits contain a distinct population of strongly banded, low-vesicularity angular clasts with strongly prolate vesicles and a notably glassy appearance. These became markedly larger and more abundant just below the transition to the phreatomagmatic deposits. Comparisons of these clasts with the Strombolian scoria suggest that they are fragments of flow-banded chilled margins from the walls of the eruptive conduit. Thermal shattering of these margins to produce the angular glassy clasts may record the onset of groundwater flow into the conduit, leading to the phreatomagmatic explosive phase of the eruption. Fragmentation of the conduit wall and ingress of groundwater would likely have been accompanied by seismic swarms consisting of high-frequency fracture events and episodes of harmonic tremor, pointing to a potential geophysical signature of the onset of phreatomagmatic explosive activity in comparable future eruptions on Santo Antão and other oceanic islands.

  2. Degassing vs. eruptive styles at Mt. Etna volcano (Sicily, Italy): Volatile stocking, gas fluxing, and the shift from low-energy to highly-explosive basaltic eruptions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Moretti, Roberto; Métrich, Nicole; Di Renzo, Valeria; Aiuppa, Alessandro; Allard, Patrick; Arienzo, Ilenia

    2017-04-01

    Basaltic magmas can transport and release large amounts of volatiles into the atmosphere, especially in subduction zones, where slab-derived fluids enrich the mantle wedge. Depending on magma volatile content, basaltic volcanoes thus display a wide spectrum of eruptive styles, from common Strombolian-type activity to Plinian events. Mt. Etna in Sicily, is a typical basaltic volcano where the volatile control on such a variable activity can be investigated. Based on a melt inclusion study in products from Strombolian or lava-fountain activity to Plinian eruptions, here we show that for the same initial volatile content, different eruptive styles reflect variable degassing paths throughout the composite Etnean plumbing system. The combined influence of i) crystallization, ii) deep degassing and iii) CO2 gas fluxing can explain the evolution of H2O, CO2, S and Cl in products from such a spectrum of activity. Deep crystallization produces the CO2-rich gas fluxing the upward magma portions, which will become buoyant and easily mobilized in small gas-rich batches stored within the plumbing system. When reaching gas dominated conditions (i.e., a gas/melt mass ratio of 0.3 and CO2,gas/H2Ogas molar ratio 5 ), these will erupt effusively or mildly explosively, whilst in case of the 122 BC Plinian eruption, open-system degassing conditions took place within the plumbing system, such that continuous CO2-fluxing determined gas accumulation on top of the magmatic system. The emission of such a cap in the early eruptive phase triggered the arrival of deep H2O-rich whose fast decompression and bubble nucleation lead to the highly explosive character, enhanced by abundant microlite crystallization and consequent increase of magma effective viscosity. This could explain why open system basaltic systems like Etna may experience highly explosive or even Plinian episodes during eruptions that start with effusive to mildly explosive phases. The proposed mechanism also determines a depression of chlorine contents in CO2-fluxed (and less explosive) magmas with respect to those feeding Plinian events like 122 BC one. The opposite is seen for sulfur: low to mild-explosive fluxed magmas are S-enriched, whereas the 122 BC Plinian products are relatively S-poor, likely because of early sulfide separation accompanying magma crystallization. The proposed mechanism involving CO2 separation and fluxing may suggest a subordinate role for variable mixing of different sources having different degrees of K-enrichment. However, such a mechanism requires further experimental studies about the effects on S and Cl dissolution and does not exclude self-mixing between degassed and undegassed batches within the Etna plumbing system. Finally, our findings may represent a new interpretative tool for the geochemical and petrological monitoring of plume gas discharges and melt inclusions, and allow tracking the switch from mild-explosive to highly explosive or even Plinian events at Etna.

  3. Video monitoring of the persistent strombolian activity of Stromboli volcano represents a window on its plumbing system and an opportunity for understanding the eruptive processes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Coltelli, Mauro; Biale, Emilio; Ciancitto, Francesco; Pecora, Emilio; Prestifilippo, Michele

    2014-05-01

    Since 1994 a video-surveillance camera located on a peak just above the active volcanic vents of Stromboli island records the explosive activity of one of the few volcanoes on the world performing a persistent eruptive activity. From 2003, after one of the larger lava flow eruption of the last century, the video-surveillance system was enhanced with more stations having both thermal and visual cameras. The video-surveillance helps volcanologists to characterize the mild explosive activity of Stromboli named Strombolian and to distinguish between the frequent "ordinary" Strombolian explosions and the occasional "extraordinary" strong Strombolian explosions that periodically occur. A new class of extraordinary explosions was discovered filling the gap between the ordinary activity and the strong explosions named major explosions when the tephra fallout covers large areas on the volcano summit and paroxysmal ones when the bombs fall down to the inhabited area along the coast of the island. In order to quantify the trend of the ordinary Strombolian explosions and to understand the occurring of the extraordinary strong Strombolian explosions a computer assisted image analysis was developed to process the huge amount of thermal and visual images recorded in several years. The results of this complex analysis allow us to clarify the processes occurring in the upper plumbing system where the pockets/trains of bubbles coalesce and move into the active vent conduits producing the ordinary Strombolian activity, and to infer the process into the deeper part of the plumbing system where new magma supply and its evolution lead to the formation of the extraordinary strong Strombolian explosions.

  4. Energetic Trend in Explosive Activity of Stromboli

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Coltelli, M.; Cristaldi, A.; Mangiagli, S.; Nunnari, G.; Pecora, E.

    2003-12-01

    The typical activity of Stromboli consists of intermittent mild explosions lasting a few seconds, which take place at different vents and at variable intervals, the most common time interval being 10-20 minutes. However, the routine activity can be interrupted by more violent, paroxysmal explosions, that eject m-sized scoriaceous bombs and lava blocks to a distance of several hundreds of meters from the craters, endangering the numerous tourists that watch the spectacular activity from the volcano's summit located about two hundreds meters from the active vents. On average, 1-2 paroxysmal explosions occurred per year over the past century, but this statistic may be underestimated in absence of continuous monitoring. For this reason from summer 1996 a remote surveillance camera works on Stromboli recording continuously the volcanic activity. It is located on Pizzo Sopra la Fossa, 100 metres above the crater terrace where are the active vents. Using image analysis we seeks to identify any change of the explosive activity trend that could precede a particular eruptive event, like paroxysmal explosions, fire fountains, lava flows. The analysis include the counting of the explosions occurred at the different craters and the parameterization in classes of intensity for each explosion on the base of tephra dispersion and kinetics energy. Associating at each class a corresponding Index of energy in order to compute an heuristic value of the Average Daily Energy Released (ADER) of the explosive activity at Stromboli and plotting this value for each crater versus time, the diagram shows a cyclic behavior with max and min of explosive activity ranging from a few days to a month. Often the craters show opposite trends so when the activity decreases in a crater, increases in the other. Before every paroxysmal explosions recorded, the crater that produced the event decreased and then stopped its activity from a few days to weeks before. The other crater tried to compensate increasing its activity and when it declined the paroxysmal explosion occurred suddenly at the former site. From September 2001 an on-line image analyzer called VAMOS (Volcanic Activity MOnitoring System) operates detection and classification of explosive events in real-time. The system has automatically recorded and analyzed the change in the energetic trend that preceded the 20 October 2001 paroxysmal explosion that killed a woman and the strong explosive activity that preceded the onset of 28 December 2002 lava flow eruption.

  5. On-line image analysis of the stromboli volcanic activity recorded by the surveillance camera helps the forecasting of the major eruptive events.

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cristaldi, A.; Coltelli, M.; Mangiagli, S.; Pecora, E.

    2003-04-01

    The typical activity of Stromboli consists of intermittent mild explosions lasting a few seconds, which take place at different vents and at variable intervals, the most common time interval being 10-20 minutes. However, the routine activity can be interrupted by more violent, paroxysmal explosions, that eject m-sized scoriaceous bombs and lava blocks to a distance of several hundreds of meters from the craters, endangering the numerous tourists that watch the spectacular activity from the volcano's summit located about two hundreds meters from the active vents. On average, 1-2 paroxysmal explosions occurred per year over the past century, but this statistic may be underestimated in absence of continuous monitoring. For this reason from summer 1996 a remote surveillance camera works on Stromboli recording continuously the volcanic activity. It is located on Pizzo Sopra la Fossa, 100 metres above the crater terrace where are the active vents. Using image analysis we seeks to identify any change of the explosive activity trend that could precede a particular eruptive event, like paroxysmal explosions, fire fountains, lava flows. From the day of the camera installation up to present 12 paroxysmal events and lava flows occurred. The analysis include the counting of the explosions occurred at the different craters and the parameterization in classes of intensity for each explosion on the base of tephra dispersion and kinetics energy. The plot of dissipated energy by each crater versus time shows a cyclic behavior with max and min of explosive activity ranging from a few days to a month. Often the craters show opposite trends so when the activity decreases in a crater, increases in the other. Before every paroxysmal explosions recorded, the crater that produced the event decreased and then stopped its activity from a few days to weeks before. The other crater tried to compensate increasing its activity and when it declined the paroxysmal explosion occurred suddenly at the former site. From September 2001 an on-line image analyzer called VAMOS (Volcanic Activity MOnitoring System) operates detection and classification of explosive events in quasi real-time. The system has automatically recorded and analyzed the change in the energetic trend that preceded the 20 October 2001 paroxysmal explosion that killed a woman and the strong explosive activity that preceded the onset of 28 December 2002 lava flow eruption.

  6. Hydrothermal pretreatment of wood by mild steam explosion and hot water extraction.

    PubMed

    Wojtasz-Mucha, Joanna; Hasani, Merima; Theliander, Hans

    2017-10-01

    The aim of this work was to compare the two most common hydrothermal pre-treatments for wood - mild steam explosion and hot water extraction - both with the prospect of enabling extraction of hemicelluloses and facilitating further processing. Although both involve autohydrolysis of the lignocellulosic tissue, they are performed under different conditions: the most prominent difference is the rapid, disintegrating, discharge employed in the steam explosion opening up the structure. In this comparative study, the emphasis was placed on local composition of the pre-treated wood chips (of industrially relevant size). The results show that short hot water extraction treatments lead to significant variations in the local composition within the wood chips, while steam explosion accomplishes a comparably more even removal of hemicelluloses due to the advective mass transport during the explosion step. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  7. A kilohertz approach to Strombolian-style eruptions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Taddeucci, Jacopo; Scarlato, Piergiorgio; Del Bello, Elisabetta; Gaudin, Damien

    2015-04-01

    Accessible volcanoes characterized by persistent, relatively mild Strombolian-style explosive activity have historically hosted multidisciplinary studies of eruptions. These studies, focused on geophysical signals preceding, accompanying, and following the eruptions, have provided key insights on the physical processes driving the eruptions. However, the dynamic development of the single explosions that characterize this style of activity remained somewhat elusive, due to the timescales involved (order of 0.001 seconds). Recent technological advances now allow recording and synchronizing different data sources on time scales relevant to the short timescales involved in the explosions. In the last several years we developed and implemented a field setup that integrates visual and thermal imaging with acoustic and seismic recordings, all synchronized and acquired at timescales of 100-10000 Hz. This setup has been developed at several active volcanoes. On the one hand, the combination of these different techniques provides unique information on the dynamics and energetics of the explosions, including the parameterization of individual ejection pulses within the explosions, the ejection and emplacement of pyroclasts and their coupling-decoupling with the gas phases, the different stages of development of the eruption jets, and their reflection in the associated acoustic and seismic signals. On the other hand, the gained information provides foundation for better understanding and interpreting the signals acquired, at lower sampling rates but routinely, from volcano monitoring networks. Perhaps even more important, our approach allows parameterizing differences and commonalities in the explosions from different volcanoes and settings.

  8. Explosive scabbling of structural materials

    DOEpatents

    Bickes, Jr., Robert W.; Bonzon, Lloyd L.

    2002-01-01

    A new approach to scabbling of surfaces of structural materials is disclosed. A layer of mildly energetic explosive composition is applied to the surface to be scabbled. The explosive composition is then detonated, rubbleizing the surface. Explosive compositions used must sustain a detonation front along the surface to which it is applied and conform closely to the surface being scabbled. Suitable explosive compositions exist which are stable under handling, easy to apply, easy to transport, have limited toxicity, and can be reliably detonated using conventional techniques.

  9. Parameterization of strombolian explosions: constraint from simultaneous physical and geophysical measurements (Invited)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    gurioli, L.; Harris, A. J.

    2013-12-01

    Strombolian activity is the most common type of explosive eruption (by frequency) experienced by Earth's volcanoes. It is commonly viewed as consisting of a succession of short discrete explosions where fragments of incandescent magma are ejected a few tens to hundreds meters into the air. This kind of activity is generally restricted to basaltic or basaltic-andesitic magmas because these systems have the sufficiently low viscosities so as to allow gas coalescence and decoupled slug ascent. Mercalli (1907) proposed one of the first formal classifications of explosive activity based on the character of the erupted products and descriptions of case-type eruptions. Later, Walker (1973) devised a classification based on grain size and dispersion, within which strombolian explosions formed the low-to-middle end of the classification. Other classifications have categorized strombolian activity on the basis of erupted magnitude and/or intensity, such as Newhall and Self's (1982) Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI). Classification can also be made on the basis of explosion mechanism, where strombolian eruptions have become associated with bursting of large gas bubbles, as opposed to release of locked in bubble populations in rapidly ascending magma that feed sustained fountains. Finally, strombolian eruptions can be defined on the basis of geophysical metrics for the explosion source and plume ascent dynamics. Recently, the volcanology community has begun to discuss the difficulty of actually placing strombolian explosions within the compartments defined by each scheme. New sampling strategies in active strombolian volcanic fields have allowed us to parameterize these mildly explosive events both physically and geophysically. Our data show that individual 'normal' and "major" explosions at Stromboli are extremely small, meaning that the classical deposit-based classification thresholds need to be reduced, or a new category defined, if the 'strombolian' eruption style at Stromboli, and other volcanoes like it, are to plot in the strombolian fields of deposit-based classifications. We also quenched a number of bombs soon explosion at Stromboli. This enabled us to quantify the degassing history and rheology of the magma(s) resident in the shallow, near-surface, system. The different textural facies observed in these bombs showed that fresh magma, mingled with partially or completely degassed, oxidized, re-crystallized, evolved and high viscosity magma, was ejected. The degassed magma appears to sit at the top of the conduit, playing only a passive role in the explosive process. Our best model, is that the degassed, oxidized magma forms a plug, or rheologically defined layer, at the top of the conduit, through which the fresh magma bursts. Integration of geophysical measurements with sample analyses, indicates that popular (bubble-bursting) models may not fit this case, thus also changeling the model-based definition of this eruption type.

  10. Development of Novel Decontamination and Inerting Techniques for Explosive Contaminated Facilities, Laboratory Evaluation of Concepts. Phase II. Laboratory Evaluation of Novel Explosives Decontamination Concepts

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1985-03-01

    gallons for Building 2. -... The system must be capable of wit standing caustic corrosion. • Either stainless steel or lined mild steel may be used. As...assumed that spent charcoal could be disposed in some safe manner arid would be re- placed as used. Additional costs were in luded for sampling and analysis...decontamination of all three explosives could be effected by further sequential treatment of the spent explosives decontami- nation solutions with acidic ferrous

  11. Long-times series of infrasonic records at open-vents volcanoes (Yasur volcano, Vanuatu, 2003-2014): the remarkable temporal stability of magma viscosity

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Vergniolle, S.; Souty, V.; Zielinski, C.; Bani, P.; LE Pichon, A.; Lardy, M.; Millier, P.; Herry, P.; Todman, S.; Garaebiti, E.

    2017-12-01

    Open-vents volcanoes, often presenting series of Strombolian explosions of various intensity, are responding, although with a delay, to any changes in the degassing pattern, providing a quasi-direct route to processes at depth. Open-vents volcanoes display a persistent volcanic activity, although of variable intensity. Long-times series at open-vents volcanoes could therefore be key measurements to unravel physical processes at the origin of Strombolian explosions and be crucial for monitoring. Continuous infrasonic records can be used to estimate the gas volume expelled at the vent during explosions (bursting of a long slug). The gas volume of each explosion is deduced from a series of two successive integrations of acoustic pressure (monopole). Here we analysed more than 4 years of infrasonic records at Yasur volcano (Vanuatu), spanning between 2003 and 2014 and organised into 8 main quasi-continuous periods. The relationship between the gas volume of each explosion and its associated maximum positive acoustic pressure, a proxy for the inner gas overpressure at bursting, shows a remarkably stable trend over the 8 periods. Two main trends exists, one which covers the full range of acoustic pressures (called « strong explosions ») and the second which represents explosions with a large gas volume and mild acoustic pressure. The class of « strong explosions » clearly follows the model of Del Bello et al. (2012), which shows that the inner gas overpressure at bursting, here empirically measured by the maximum acoustic pressure, is proportional to the gas volume. Constrains on magma viscosity and conduit radius, are deduced from this trend and from the gas volume at the transition passive-active degassing. The remarkable stability of this trend over time suggests that 1) the magma viscosity is stable at the depth where gas overpressure is produced within the slug and 2) any potential changes in magma viscosity occur very close to the top of the magma column.

  12. Injuries from combat explosions in Iraq: injury type, location, and severity.

    PubMed

    Eskridge, Susan L; Macera, Caroline A; Galarneau, Michael R; Holbrook, Troy L; Woodruff, Susan I; MacGregor, Andrew J; Morton, Deborah J; Shaffer, Richard A

    2012-10-01

    Explosions have caused a greater percentage of injuries in Iraq and Afghanistan than in any other large-scale conflict. Improvements in body armour and field medical care have improved survival and changed the injury profile of service personnel. This study's objective was to determine the nature, body region, and severity of injuries caused by an explosion episode in male service personnel. A descriptive analysis was conducted of 4623 combat explosion episodes in Iraq between March 2004 and December 2007. The Barell matrix was used to describe the nature and body regions of injuries due to a combat explosion. A total of 17,637 International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD-9) codes were assigned to the 4623 explosion episodes, with an average of 3.8 ICD-9 codes per episode. The most frequent single injury type was a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI; 10.8%). Other frequent injuries were open wounds in the lower extremity (8.8%) and open wounds of the face (8.2%), which includes tympanic membrane rupture. The extremities were the body regions most often injured (41.3%), followed by head and neck (37.4%) and torso (8.8%). The results of this study support previous observations of TBI as a pre-eminent injury of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, with mild TBI as the most common single injury in this large cohort of explosion episodes. The extremities had the highest frequency of injuries for any one body region. The majority of the explosion episodes resulted in more than one injury, and the variety of injuries across nearly every body region and injury type suggests a complex nature of explosion injuries. Understanding the constellation of injuries commonly caused by explosions will assist in the mitigation, treatment, and rehabilitation of the effects of these injuries. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  13. Persistent activity and violent strombolian eruptions at Vesuvius between 1631 and 1944

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Scandone, Roberto; Giacomelli, Lisetta; Speranza, Francesca Fattori

    2008-03-01

    During the period 1631-1944, Vesuvius was in persistent activity with alternating mild strombolian explosions, quiet effusive eruptions, and violent strombolian eruptions. The major difference between the predominant style of activity and the violent strombolian stages is the effusion rate. The lava effusion rate during major eruptions was in the range 20-100 m 3/s, higher than during mild activity and quiet effusion (0.1-1 m 3/s). The products erupted during the mild activity and major paroxysms have different degree of crystallization. Highly porphyritic lava flows are slowly erupted during years-long period of mild activity. This activity is fed by a magma accumulating at shallow depth within the volcanic edifice. Conversely, during the major paroxysms, a fast lava flow precedes the eruption of a volatile-rich, crystal-poor magma. We show that the more energetic eruptions are fed by episodic, multiple arrival of discrete batches of magma rising faster and not degassing during the ascent. The rapidly ascending magma pushes up the liquid residing in the shallow reservoir and eventually reaches the surface with its full complement of volatiles, producing kilometer-high lava fountains. Rapid drainage of the shallow reservoir occasionally caused small caldera collapses. The major eruptions act to unplug the upper part of the feeding system, erupting the cooling and crystallizing magma. This pattern of activity lasted for 313 y, but with a progressive decrease in the number of more energetic eruptions. As a consequence, a cooling plug blocked the volcano until it eventually prevented the eruption of new magma. The yearly probability of having at least one violent strombolian eruption has decreased from 0.12 to 0.10 from 1944 to 2007, but episodic seismic crises since 1979 may be indicative of new episodic intrusions of magma batches.

  14. Magma extrusion during the Ubinas 2013–2014 eruptive crisis based on satellite thermal imaging (MIROVA) and ground-based monitoring

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Coppola, Diego; Macedo, Orlando; Ramos, Domingo; Finizola, Anthony; Delle Donne, Dario; del Carpio, Jose; White, Randall A.; McCausland, Wendy; Centeno, Riky; Rivera, Marco; Apaza, Fredy; Ccallata, Beto; Chilo, Wilmer; Cigolini, Corrado; Laiolo, Marco; Lazarte, Ivonne; Machaca, Roger; Masias, Pablo; Ortega, Mayra; Puma, Nino; Taipe, Edú

    2015-01-01

    After 3 years of mild gases emissions, the Ubinas volcano entered in a new eruptive phase on September 2nd, 2013. The MIROVA system (a space-based volcanic hot-spot detection system), allowed us to detect in near real time the thermal emissions associated with the eruption and provided early evidence of magma extrusion within the deep summit crater. By combining IR data with plume height, sulfur emissions, hot spring temperatures and seismic activity, we interpret the thermal output detected over Ubinas in terms of extrusion rates associated to the eruption. We suggest that the 2013–2014 eruptive crisis can be subdivided into three main phases: (i) shallow magma intrusion inside the edifice, (ii) extrusion and growing of a lava plug at the bottom of the summit crater coupled with increasing explosive activity and finally, (iii) disruption of the lava plug and gradual decline of the explosive activity. The occurrence of the 8.2 Mw Iquique (Chile) earthquake (365 km away from Ubinas) on April 1st, 2014, may have perturbed most of the analyzed parameters, suggesting a prompt interaction with the ongoing volcanic activity. In particular, the analysis of thermal and seismic datasets shows that the earthquake may have promoted the most intense thermal and explosive phase that culminated in a major explosion on April 19th, 2014.These results reveal the efficiency of space-based thermal observations in detecting the extrusion of hot magma within deep volcanic craters and in tracking its evolution. We emphasize that, in combination with other geophysical and geochemical datasets, MIROVA is an essential tool for monitoring remote volcanoes with rather difficult accessibility, like those of the Andes that reach remarkably high altitudes.

  15. Thermal Explosion Violence of HMX-Based and RDX-Based Explosives - Effects of Composition, Confinement, and Solid Phase Using the Scaled Thermal Explosion Experiment

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

    Maienschein, J L; Wardell, J F

    The Scaled Thermal Explosion Experiment (STEX) has been developed to quantify the violence of thermal explosion under well defined and carefully controlled initial and boundary conditions. Here we present results with HMX-based explosives (LX-04 and PBX-9501) and with Composition B. Samples are 2 inches (50 mm) in diameter and 8 inches (200 mm) in length, under confinement of 7,500-30,000 psi (50-200 MPa), with heating rates of 1-3 C/hr. We quantify reaction violence by measuring the wall velocity in the ensuing thermal explosion, and relate the measured velocity to that expected from a detonation. Results with HMX-based explosives (LX-04 and PBX-9501)more » have shown the importance of confinement and HMX solid phase, with reaction violence ranging from mild pressure bursts to near detonations. By contrast, Composition B has shown very violent reactions over a wide range of conditions.« less

  16. Concussion and Mild Traumatic Brain Injury: An Annotated Bibliography

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2013-08-01

    GCS – Glasgow Coma Scale IED- improvised explosive device LOC - loss of consciousness mTBI- mild traumatic brain injury PCS- post-concussion...Journal of Sport Medicine, 9, 193-198. Hospital patients who experienced LOC following a concussion were compared to concussed individuals who did...not experience LOC . The neuropsychological test measures used by the hospital, found no significant differences between the two groups, suggesting

  17. Eruption of soufriere volcano on st. Vincent island, 1971-1972.

    PubMed

    Aspinall, W P; Sigurdsson, H; Shepherd, J B

    1973-07-13

    The Soufrière volcano in St. Vincent erupted from October 1971 to March 1972, as 80 x 10(6) m(3) of basaltic andesite lava was quietly extruded inside the mile-wide crater. The eruption was largely subaqueous, taking place in the 180-m-deep crater lake, and resulted in the emergence of a steep-sided island. The mild character of the eruption and the absence of seismic activity stand in direct contrast to the highly explosive character of the eruption of 1902 to 1903.

  18. The violent Strombolian eruption of 10 ka Pelado shield volcano, Sierra Chichinautzin, Central Mexico

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lorenzo-Merino, A.; Guilbaud, M.-N.; Roberge, J.

    2018-03-01

    Pelado volcano is a typical example of an andesitic Mexican shield with a summital scoria cone. It erupted ca. 10 ka in the central part of an elevated plateau in what is today the southern part of Mexico City. The volcano forms a roughly circular, 10-km wide lava shield with two summital cones, surrounded by up to 2.7-m thick tephra deposits preserved up to a distance of 3 km beyond the shield. New cartographic, stratigraphic, granulometric, and componentry data indicate that Pelado volcano was the product of a single, continuous eruption marked by three stages. In the early stage, a > 1.5-km long fissure opened and was active with mild explosive activity. Intermediate and late stages were mostly effusive and associated with the formation of a 250-m high lava shield. Nevertheless, during these stages, the emission of lava alternated and/or coexisted with highly explosive events that deposited a widespread tephra blanket. In the intermediate stage, multiple vents were active along the fissure, but activity was centered at the main cone during the late stage. The final activity was purely effusive. The volcano emitted > 0.9 km3 dense-rock equivalent (DRE) of tephra and up to 5.6 km3 DRE of lavas. Pelado shares various features with documented "violent Strombolian" eruptions, including a high fragmentation index, large dispersal area, occurrence of plate tephra, high eruptive column, and simultaneous explosive and effusive activity. Our results suggest that the associated hazards (mostly tephra fallout and emplacement of lava) would seriously affect areas located up to 25 km from the vent for fallout and 5 km from the vent for lava, an important issue for large cities built near or on potentially active zones, such as Mexico City.

  19. Blast Exposure Causes Early and Persistent Aberrant Phospho- and Cleaved-Tau Expression in a Murine Model of Mild Blast-Induced Traumatic Brain Injury

    PubMed Central

    Huber, Bertrand R.; Meabon, James S.; Martin, Tobin J.; Mourad, Pierre D.; Bennett, Raymond; Kraemer, Brian C.; Cernak, Ibolja; Petrie, Eric C.; Emery, Michael J.; Swenson, Erik R.; Mayer, Cynthia; Mehic, Edin; Peskind, Elaine R.; Cook, David G.

    2014-01-01

    Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is considered the ‘signature injury’ of combat veterans that have served during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. This prevalence of mTBI is due in part to the common exposure to high explosive blasts in combat zones. In addition to the threats of blunt impact trauma caused by flying objects and the head itself being propelled against objects, the primary blast overpressure (BOP) generated by high explosives is capable of injuring the brain. Compared to other means of causing TBI, the pathophysiology of mild-to-moderate BOP is less well understood. To study the consequences of BOP exposure in mice, we employed a well-established approach using a compressed gas-driven shock tube that recapitulates battlefield-relevant open-field BOP. We found that 24 hours post-blast a single mild BOP provoked elevation of multiple phosphor- and cleaved-tau species in neurons, as well as elevating manganese superoxide-dismutase (MnSOD or SOD2) levels, a cellular response to oxidative stress. In hippocampus, aberrant tau species persisted for at least 30 days post-exposure, while SOD2 levels returned to sham control levels. These findings suggest that elevated phospho- and cleaved-tau species may be among the initiating pathologic processes induced by mild blast exposure. These findings may have important implications for efforts to prevent blast-induced insults to the brain from progressing into long-term neurodegenerative disease processes. PMID:23948882

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

    Patterson, Brian M.; Cordes, Nikolaus Lynn; Tappan, Bryce C.

    HMX (octahydro-1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetrazocine) is a powerful high explosive that is routinely used in formulations such as PBX 9501. Much remains to be learned about the performance and mechanical properties of HMX formulations such as these, particularly after dynamic damage has occurred. We have prepared formulations with HMX using hydroxyl terminated polybutadiene (HTPB) binder in order to form an explosive that is relatively insensitive to mild stimuli, analogous to PBXB-110 (different only is substitution of dioctyladipate (DO) for isodecyl pelargonate).

  1. "IlVulcanoInforma": The restyling of the INGV Volcanological Information Centres, Aeolian Islands, Italy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    D'Addezio, G.; Carapezza, M. L.; Riposati, D.; Team, L.

    2008-12-01

    Vulcano and Stromboli are the most active volcanoes of the Aeolian Islands. Vulcano is quiescent since the eruption of 1888-90 but in the last decades it experienced several crises with huge increase of gas output and temperature of the crater fumaroles, and variations in the magmatic gas components. Stromboli is characterized by a permanent mild explosive activity, episodically interrupted by major explosions, lava effusions, or paroxystic explosive events (October 2001: a tourist killed; December 2002: lava effusion, tsunami generated by flank collapse; April 2003: explosive paroxysm, block fallout on Ginostra village; February-March 2007: lava effusion and paroxysm). These islands are renowned tourist sites for the marvelous sea and the fascination that the volcanoes evoke. In fact, during summer risk increases as there are 10,000-15,000 persons per island (only a few hundreds in winter). Starting from the 1990 the INGV and the Civil Protection established a Volcanological Information Centre on each island with the main goal to inform population and tourists on the risks related to each volcano. During the year the two centres are visited by 8000-10,000 visitors coming from different countries. Researchers and trained students are involved in the educational activity devoted to inform visitors on the scientific aspects of volcano monitoring and hazard assessment and to ensure that tourists, willing to climb the summit crater area, will behave properly. In 2008 the Vulcano exhibition has been totally restyled. The INGV Laboratorio Grafica e Immagini has created for the project a composite and innovative graphic study. This includes a series of products (logos, brochures, panels ecc) with the intent to create new effective information means. The logo creation has been the first step for all the communications: an image with strong impact on volcano information distributed in strategic zones of the village to stimulate interest in the INGV centre and its exhibition.

  2. Cardowan coal mine explosion: experience of a mass burns incident.

    PubMed Central

    Allister, C; Hamilton, G M

    1983-01-01

    A coal mine explosion 1700 feet (516 m) underground and two miles (3.2 km) from the pit head resulted in 40 casualties. Two hours elapsed between the explosion and the arrival of patients at hospital. Six patients suffered mechanical injuries, only one of which was life threatening. Thirty six suffered burns; in 18 over 15% of the total body surface area was affected. Nineteen patients had a mild respiratory upset requiring oxygen treatment. The average length of inpatient stay in those admitted was 24 days. Early assessment and treatment in the accident and emergency department was relatively simple because of the large proportion of burn injuries. Lack of communication between site and hospital made administration of the disaster difficult. PMID:6409324

  3. Numerical simulations of microcrack-related damage and ignition behavior of mild-impacted polymer bonded explosives.

    PubMed

    Yang, Kun; Wu, Yanqing; Huang, Fenglei

    2018-08-15

    A physical model is developed to describe the viscoelastic-plastic deformation, cracking damage, and ignition behavior of polymer-bonded explosives (PBXs) under mild impact. This model improves on the viscoelastic-statistical crack mechanical model (Visco-SCRAM) in several respects. (i) The proposed model introduces rate-dependent plasticity into the framework which is more suitable for explosives with relatively high binder content. (ii) Damage evolution is calculated by the generalized Griffith instability criterion with the dominant (most unstable) crack size rather than the averaged crack size over all crack orientations. (iii) The fast burning of cracks following ignition and the effects of gaseous products on crack opening are considered. The predicted uniaxial and triaxial stress-strain responses of PBX9501 sample under dynamic compression loading are presented to illustrate the main features of the materials. For an uncovered cylindrical PBX charge impacted by a flat-nosed rod, the simulated results show that a triangular-shaped dead zone is formed beneath the front of the rod. The cracks in the dead zone are stable due to friction-locked stress state, whereas the cracks near the front edges of dead zone become unstable and turn into hotspots due to high-shear effects. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  4. Concussive brain injury from explosive blast

    PubMed Central

    de Lanerolle, Nihal C; Hamid, Hamada; Kulas, Joseph; Pan, Jullie W; Czlapinski, Rebecca; Rinaldi, Anthony; Ling, Geoffrey; Bandak, Faris A; Hetherington, Hoby P

    2014-01-01

    Objective Explosive blast mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is associated with a variety of symptoms including memory impairment and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Explosive shock waves can cause hippocampal injury in a large animal model. We recently reported a method for detecting brain injury in soldiers with explosive blast mTBI using magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (MRSI). This method is applied in the study of veterans exposed to blast. Methods The hippocampus of 25 veterans with explosive blast mTBI, 20 controls, and 12 subjects with PTSD but without exposure to explosive blast were studied using MRSI at 7 Tesla. Psychiatric and cognitive assessments were administered to characterize the neuropsychiatric deficits and compare with findings from MRSI. Results Significant reductions in the ratio of N-acetyl aspartate to choline (NAA/Ch) and N-acetyl aspartate to creatine (NAA/Cr) (P < 0.05) were found in the anterior portions of the hippocampus with explosive blast mTBI in comparison to control subjects and were more pronounced in the right hippocampus, which was 15% smaller in volume (P < 0.05). Decreased NAA/Ch and NAA/Cr were not influenced by comorbidities – PTSD, depression, or anxiety. Subjects with PTSD without blast had lesser injury, which tended to be in the posterior hippocampus. Explosive blast mTBI subjects had a reduction in visual memory compared to PTSD without blast. Interpretation The region of the hippocampus injured differentiates explosive blast mTBI from PTSD. MRSI is quite sensitive in detecting and localizing regions of neuronal injury from explosive blast associated with memory impairment. PMID:25493283

  5. Tephro- and chemo-stratigraphy of the Vulcanello Peninsula (Vulcano, Aeolian Islands)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rosi, M.; Fusillo, R.; di Traglia, F.; Pistolesi, M.; Todman, A.; Menzies, M. A.

    2009-12-01

    New stratigraphic studies of the Vulcanello Peninsula have been used to better define the small-scale evolution of this young (1000 AD and 325±100 BP) volcanic center and to re-investigate the last 1000 years of volcanic history for the Island of Vulcano (Aeolian Islands, Southern Italy). Vulcanello Peninsula is the northern-most part of the Island of Vulcano. It comprises a shoshonitic lava platform and a volcanic edifice made up of three overlying cones, which are shoshonitic to trachytic in composition. Volcanic activity in this area was coeval with the recent eruptions of the La Fossa Cone, the present-day active center of the island. Our goal is to constrain the recent volcanic development of this mafic volcano and to focus on the historic eruptive activity of the two other recent or active centres in the southern Aeolian Islands, Mt. Pilato (Island of Lipari) and La Fossa Cone. In order to do so, we reconstructed the stratigraphical setting of the proximal deposits of the three Vulcanello cones, through the investigation of 25 outcrops. We analyzed the stratigraphy of the tephra blankets deposited on the lava platform, studying 10 trenches. Our intention is to integrate morphological, textural and chemical data in order to correlate these deposits with the Vulcanello, La Fossa Cone or Mt Pilato. LA-MC-ICPMS (RHUL) analysis of juvenile clasts is underway in order to investigate the evolution of the Vulcanello juvenile clasts. In addition 14C dating is planned on selected organic matter from the volcanostratigraphic sections. Our preliminary data for the Vulcanello proximal deposits suggest that each of the three cones experienced several eruptions, with a wide spectrum of eruptive styles and a diversity of chemistry. The oldest cone (Vulcanello I) is characterised by four different eruptions separated by minor unconformities or reworking material indicative of little or not time breaks in the eruptive cycle. The eruptions shift from Violent Strombolian to Hawaiian in style, testifying to a reduction in fragmentation and dispersal. The second cone (Vulcanello II), contains volcanic deposits from Strombolian eruptions only. The third cone (Vulcanello III), displays a complex evolution with an initial effusive episode of a trachytic lava flow, followed by phreatic explosions, evident as altered fine ash layers. These deposits are interbedded with scoriaceous fall deposits, attesting the occurrence of some mild explosive activity during this eruptive phase. This detailed study of the effusive and explosive products from Vulcanello reveals rapid evolution of Vulcanello during the initial phases (1000 AD to 1200 AD) with voluminous mafic eruptions, both effusive and explosive. A progressive reduction in emitted volume is apparent. The presence of abundant explosive deposits related to phreatic explosions during the Vulcanello III phase, is related to the presence of water, a reduction in magma volume and the presence of intense hydrothermal activity in the latter stage of the evolution of Vulcanello evolution until 1878. This may indicate the presence of a stable shallow thermal anomaly.

  6. The metamorphosis of supernova SN 2008D/XRF 080109: a link between supernovae and GRBs/hypernovae.

    PubMed

    Mazzali, Paolo A; Valenti, Stefano; Della Valle, Massimo; Chincarini, Guido; Sauer, Daniel N; Benetti, Stefano; Pian, Elena; Piran, Tsvi; D'Elia, Valerio; Elias-Rosa, Nancy; Margutti, Raffaella; Pasotti, Francesco; Antonelli, L Angelo; Bufano, Filomena; Campana, Sergio; Cappellaro, Enrico; Covino, Stefano; D'Avanzo, Paolo; Fiore, Fabrizio; Fugazza, Dino; Gilmozzi, Roberto; Hunter, Deborah; Maguire, Kate; Maiorano, Elisabetta; Marziani, Paola; Masetti, Nicola; Mirabel, Felix; Navasardyan, Hripsime; Nomoto, Ken'ichi; Palazzi, Eliana; Pastorello, Andrea; Panagia, Nino; Pellizza, L J; Sari, Re'em; Smartt, Stephen; Tagliaferri, Gianpiero; Tanaka, Masaomi; Taubenberger, Stefan; Tominaga, Nozomu; Trundle, Carrie; Turatto, Massimo

    2008-08-29

    The only supernovae (SNe) to show gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) or early x-ray emission thus far are overenergetic, broad-lined type Ic SNe (hypernovae, HNe). Recently, SN 2008D has shown several unusual features: (i) weak x-ray flash (XRF), (ii) an early, narrow optical peak, (iii) disappearance of the broad lines typical of SN Ic HNe, and (iv) development of helium lines as in SNe Ib. Detailed analysis shows that SN 2008D was not a normal supernova: Its explosion energy (E approximately 6x10(51) erg) and ejected mass [ approximately 7 times the mass of the Sun (M(middle dot in circle))] are intermediate between normal SNe Ibc and HNe. We conclude that SN 2008D was originally a approximately 30 M(middle dot in circle) star. When it collapsed, a black hole formed and a weak, mildly relativistic jet was produced, which caused the XRF. SN 2008D is probably among the weakest explosions that produce relativistic jets. Inner engine activity appears to be present whenever massive stars collapse to black holes.

  7. New insights into Brunner syndrome and potential for targeted therapy.

    PubMed

    Palmer, E E; Leffler, M; Rogers, C; Shaw, M; Carroll, R; Earl, J; Cheung, N W; Champion, B; Hu, H; Haas, S A; Kalscheuer, V M; Gecz, J; Field, M

    2016-01-01

    We report two families with Brunner syndrome living in one state of Australia. The first family had a predicted protein-truncating variant of monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) (p.S251KfsX2). Affected males had mild intellectual disability (ID), obsessive behaviour, limited friendships and were introverted and placid during clinical interview. The family disclosed episodic explosive aggression after a diagnosis was made. The second family had a missense variant in MAOA (p.R45W). Affected males had borderline-mild ID, attention deficit disorder and limited friendships. One had a history of explosive aggression in childhood and episodic symptoms of flushing, headaches and diarrhoea. Their carrier mother had normal intelligence but similar episodic symptoms. Characteristic biochemical abnormalities included high serum serotonin and urinary metanephrines and low urinary 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) and vanillylmandelic acid (VMA). Symptomatic individuals in the second family had particularly high serotonin levels, and treatment with a serotonin reuptake inhibitor and dietary modification resulted in reversal of biochemical abnormalities, reduction of 'serotonergic' symptoms and behavioural improvement. Brunner syndrome should be considered as a cause of mild ID with paroxysmal behavioural symptoms. It can be screened for with serum/urine metanephrine and serotonin measurement. Cautious treatment with a serotonin reuptake inhibitor, dietary modifications and avoidance of medications contraindicated in patients on monoamine oxidase inhibitors can improve symptoms. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  8. Gangliosides and Ceramides Change in a Mouse Model of Blast Induced Traumatic Brain Injury

    PubMed Central

    2013-01-01

    Explosive detonations generate atmospheric pressure changes that produce nonpenetrating blast induced “mild” traumatic brain injury (bTBI). The structural basis for mild bTBI has been extremely controversial. The present study applies matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry imaging to track the distribution of gangliosides in mouse brain tissue that were exposed to very low level of explosive detonations (2.5–5.5 psi peak overpressure). We observed major increases of the ganglioside GM2 in the hippocampus, thalamus, and hypothalamus after a single blast exposure. Moreover, these changes were accompanied by depletion of ceramides. No neurological or brain structural signs of injury could be inferred using standard light microscopic techniques. The first source of variability is generated by the Latency between blast and tissue sampling (peak intensity of the blast wave). These findings suggest that subtle molecular changes in intracellular membranes and plasmalemma compartments may be biomarkers for biological responses to mild bTBI. This is also the first report of a GM2 increase in the brains of mature mice from a nongenetic etiology. PMID:23590251

  9. Ultrastructural brain abnormalities and associated behavioral changes in mice after low-intensity blast exposure.

    PubMed

    Song, Hailong; Konan, Landry M; Cui, Jiankun; Johnson, Catherine E; Langenderfer, Martin; Grant, DeAna; Ndam, Tina; Simonyi, Agnes; White, Tommi; Demirci, Utkan; Mott, David R; Schwer, Doug; Hubler, Graham K; Cernak, Ibolja; DePalma, Ralph G; Gu, Zezong

    2018-07-16

    Explosive blast-induced mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), a "signature wound" of recent military conflicts, commonly affects service members. While past blast injury studies have provided insights into TBI with moderate- to high-intensity explosions, the impact of primary low-intensity blast (LIB)-mediated pathobiology on neurological deficits requires further investigation. Our prior considerations of blast physics predicted ultrastructural injuries at nanoscale levels. Here, we provide quantitative data using a primary LIB injury murine model exposed to open field detonation of 350 g of high-energy explosive C4. We quantified ultrastructural and behavioral changes up to 30 days post blast injury (DPI). The use of an open-field experimental blast generated a primary blast wave with a peak overpressure of 6.76 PSI (46.6 kPa) at a 3-m distance from the center of the explosion, a positive phase duration of approximate 3.0 milliseconds (ms), a maximal impulse of 8.7 PSI × ms and a sharp rising time of 9 × 10 -3  ms, with no apparent impact/acceleration in exposed animals. Neuropathologically, myelinated axonal damage was observed in blast-exposed groups at 7 DPI. Using transmission electron microscopy, we observed and quantified myelin sheath defects and mitochondrial abnormalities at 7 and 30 DPI. Inverse correlations between blast intensities and neurobehavioral outcomes including motor activities, anxiety levels, nesting behavior, spatial learning and memory occurred. These observations uncover unique ultrastructural brain abnormalities and associated behavioral changes due to primary blast injury and provide key insights into its pathogenesis and potential treatment. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  10. Assessment of eruption intensity using infrasound waveform inversion at Mt. Etna, Italy.

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Diaz Moreno, A.; Iezzi, A. M.; Lamb, O. D.; Zuccarello, L.; Fee, D.; De Angelis, S.

    2017-12-01

    Mt. Etna, Italy, a 3,330 m stratovolcano, is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. It is topped by five craters: Voragine, Bocca Nuova, the North-East, South-East, and New South-East Crater. Its activity during the past decade can be separated into two main types: i) nearly-continuous degassing interspersed by mild-to-vigorous Strombolian activity within the summit craters, and ii) effusive flank eruptions. In June 2017, we deployed a large temporary network of 14 infrasound sensors (Chaparral UHP60) and 12 broadband seismometers (Guralp EX-120s). We also recorded Thermal Infrared (TIR) and Unmanned Aerial Vehicle images of activity at the summit vents. Our primary objective is to quantify the intensity and mechanisms of infrasound sources at Mt. Etna, and use these results to improve models of volcanic plumes. From June 2017 until the time of writing, the infrasound network detected signals associated with nearly-continuous degassing and discrete small-to-moderate explosions originating at two distinct locations within the Voragine Crater and the New South-East Crater, respectively. During periods of increased explosive activity, we recorded 20-30 discrete events/day with infrasonic amplitudes of up to 7.5 Pa at 1 km distance from the active vent. The explosions exhibited sinusoidal acoustic waveforms, often with similar characteristics, durations of 1-3 s, and a 2 Hz peak frequency. Due to the relatively dense station coverage and the azimuthal distribution of the network, our deployment offers an opportunity to characterize, with unprecedented resolution, infrasound sources at Mt. Etna. Here we present preliminary results of 3D acoustic wave-field simulations, using a Finite Difference Time Domain modelling scheme, and a preliminary assessment of volumetric eruption rates through acoustic waveform inversion. We investigate the effects of local topography and atmospheric winds on the propagation of the acoustic wavefield, and discuss the implications for infrasound-based assessments of eruption intensity. Our network will be deployed through August 2017, with the hopes of catching larger and more diverse eruptions as well.

  11. Comparison of blast-exposed OEF/OIF veterans with and without a history of TBI symptoms on a brief computerized neuropsychological battery.

    PubMed

    Kalkstein, Solomon; Scott, J Cobb; Biester, Rosette; Brownlow, Janeese A; Harpaz-Rotem, Ilan; Gur, Ruben C

    2017-01-01

    Mild traumatic brain injuries (mild TBIs) resulting from exposure to Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) are highly prevalent among veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. This exploratory study compared the neurocognitive performance of blast-exposed veterans with (n = 19) and without (n = 15) reported symptoms of mild TBI. All subjects had diagnoses of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Neurocognitive testing was administered using a well-established computerized battery, the Penn Computerized Neuropsychological Battery (CNB), and groups were well matched on age, race, education, and time since most recent blast exposure. Although differences were not observed on CNB accuracy scores, MANOVAs revealed slower processing speed in the mTBI group when answering correctly on tests of simple and sustained attention, with large effect sizes. Results suggest a potential speed-accuracy tradeoff in blast-related mild TBI, which should be further examined in larger samples.

  12. HYDRODYNAMICAL INTERACTION OF MILDLY RELATIVISTIC EJECTA WITH AN AMBIENT MEDIUM

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

    Suzuki, Akihiro; Maeda, Keiichi; Shigeyama, Toshikazu

    2017-01-01

    The hydrodynamical interaction of spherical ejecta freely expanding at mildly relativistic speeds into an ambient cold medium is studied in semianalytical and numerical ways to investigate how ejecta produced in energetic stellar explosions dissipate their kinetic energy through the interaction with the surrounding medium. We especially focus on the case in which the circumstellar medium (CSM) is well represented by a steady wind at a constant mass-loss rate, having been ejected from the stellar surface prior to the explosion. As a result of the hydrodynamical interaction, the ejecta and CSM are swept by the reverse and forward shocks, leading tomore » the formation of a geometrically thin shell. We present a semianalytical model describing the dynamical evolution of the shell and compare the results with numerical simulations. The shell can give rise to bright emission as it gradually becomes transparent to photons. We develop an emission model for the expected emission from the optically thick shell, in which photons in the shell gradually diffuse out to the interstellar space. Then we investigate the possibility that radiation powered by the hydrodynamical interaction is the origin of an underluminous class of gamma-ray bursts.« less

  13. 78 FR 18619 - Extension of Agency Information Collection Activity Under OMB Review: National Explosives...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-03-27

    ... DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Transportation Security Administration Extension of Agency Information Collection Activity Under OMB Review: National Explosives Detection Canine Team Program (NEDCTP... Explosives Detection Canine Team Program (NEDCTP) canine handlers. Abstract: The FAMS/CTES Explosives...

  14. Explosive activity associated with the growth of volcanic domes

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Newhall, C.G.; Melson, W.G.

    1983-01-01

    Domes offer unique opportunities to measure or infer the characteristics of magmas that, at domes and elsewhere, control explosive activity. A review of explosive activity associated with historical dome growth shows that: 1. (1) explosive activity has occurred in close association with nearly all historical dome growth; 2. (2) whole-rock SiO2 content, a crude but widely reported indicator of magma viscosity, shows no systematic relationship to the timing and character of explosions; 3. (3) the average rate of dome growth, a crude indicator of the rate of supply of magma and volatiles to the near-surface enviornment, shows no systematic relationship to the timing or character of explosions; and 4. (4) new studies at Arenal and Mount St. Helens suggest that water content is the dominant control on explosions from water-rich magmas, whereas the crystal content and composition of the interstitial melt (and hence magma viscosity) are equally or more important controls on explosions from water-poor magmas. New efforts should be made to improve current, rather limited techniques for monitoring pre-eruption volatile content and magma viscosity, and thus the explosive potential of magmas. ?? 1983.

  15. Persistent distress after psychological exposure to the Nagasaki atomic bomb explosion.

    PubMed

    Kim, Yoshiharu; Tsutsumi, Atsuro; Izutsu, Takashi; Kawamura, Noriyuki; Miyazaki, Takao; Kikkawa, Takehiko

    2011-11-01

    Although there is speculation that individuals living in the vicinity of nuclear disasters have persistent mental health deterioration due to psychological stress, few attempts have been made to examine this issue. To determine whether having been in the vicinity of the Nagasaki atomic bomb explosion in the absence of substantial exposure to radiation affected the mental health of local inhabitants more than half a century later. Participants were randomly recruited from individuals who lived in the vicinity of the atomic bomb explosion in uncontaminated suburbs of Nagasaki. This sample (n = 347) was stratified by gender, age, perception of the explosion and current district of residence. Controls (n = 288) were recruited from among individuals who had moved into the area from outside Nagasaki 5-15 years after the bombing, matched for gender, age and district of residence. The primary outcome measure was the proportion of those at high risk of mental disorder based on the 28-item version of the General Health Questionnaire, with a cut-off point of 5/6. Other parameters related to individual perception of the explosion, health status, life events and habits were also assessed. Having been in the vicinity of the explosion was the most significant factor (OR = 5.26, 95% CI 2.56-11.11) contributing to poorer mental health; erroneous knowledge of radiological hazard showed a mild association. In the sample group, anxiety after learning of the potential radiological hazard was significantly correlated with poor mental health (P<0.05), whereas anxiety about the explosion, or the degree of perception of it, was not; 74.5% of the sample group believed erroneously that the flash of the explosion was synonymous with radiation. Having been in the vicinity of the atomic bomb explosion without radiological exposure continued to be associated with poorer mental health more than half a century after the event. Fear on learning about the potential radiological hazard and lack of knowledge about radiological risk are responsible for this association.

  16. 75 FR 4578 - Extension of Agency Information Collection Activity Under OMB Review: National Explosives...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-01-28

    ... Information Collection Activity Under OMB Review: National Explosives Detection Canine Team Program (NEDCTP... under the National Explosives Detection Canine Team Program. The data is collected electronically... feedback to the Chief of the National Explosives Detection Canine Team Program and instructional staff and...

  17. 78 FR 76860 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comments Requested: Inventories...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-12-19

    ...] Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comments Requested: Inventories, Licensed... currently approved collection. (2) Title of the Form/Collection: Inventories, Licensed Explosives Importers... explosive material inventories of those persons engaged in various activities within the explosives industry...

  18. Cycles of explosive and effusive eruptions at Kīlauea Volcano, Hawai‘i

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Swanson, Don; Rose, Timothy R.; Mucek, Adonara E; Garcia, Michael O.; Fiske, Richard S.; Mastin, Larry G.

    2014-01-01

    The subaerial eruptive activity at Kīlauea Volcano (Hawai‘i) for the past 2500 yr can be divided into 3 dominantly effusive and 2 dominantly explosive periods, each lasting several centuries. The prevailing style of eruption for 60% of this time was explosive, manifested by repeated phreatic and phreatomagmatic activity in a deep summit caldera. During dominantly explosive periods, the magma supply rate to the shallow storage volume beneath the summit dropped to only a few percent of that during mainly effusive periods. The frequency and duration of explosive activity are contrary to the popular impression that Kīlauea is almost unceasingly effusive. Explosive activity apparently correlates with the presence of a caldera intersecting the water table. The decrease in magma supply rate may result in caldera collapse, because erupted or intruded magma is not replaced. Glasses with unusually high MgO, TiO2, and K2O compositions occur only in explosive tephra (and one related lava flow) and are consistent with disruption of the shallow reservoir complex during caldera formation. Kīlauea is a complex, modulated system in which melting rate, supply rate, conduit stability (in both mantle and crust), reservoir geometry, water table, and many other factors interact with one another. The hazards associated with explosive activity at Kīlauea’s summit would have major impact on local society if a future dominantly explosive period were to last several centuries. The association of lowered magma supply, caldera formation, and explosive activity might characterize other basaltic volcanoes, but has not been recognized.

  19. Terror explosive injuries: a comparison of children, adolescents, and adults.

    PubMed

    Jaffe, Dena H; Peleg, Kobi

    2010-01-01

    We sought to characterize injuries and outcomes from terror explosions with specific attention to children (0-10 years) and adolescents (11-15 years) compared to adults (16-45 years). Terror explosions target vulnerable populations and result in multidimensional injuries that may vary according to age group. The relative dearth of information regarding terror-related injuries among children inhibits proper preparedness and optimum management during such an event. A retrospective study was performed using data from the national Israel Trauma Registry (October 2000 to December 2005). Included were civilians and nonactive military personnel hospitalized as a result of a terror explosion. During the 5.3-year study period, 49 children (0-10 years), 65 adolescents (11-15 years), and 723 adults (16-45 years) were hospitalized from terror explosions. Children were more likely than adults to sustain severe injuries (27% vs. 12%) and traumatic brain injury (35% vs. 20%) and less likely to sustain injuries to their extremities (35% vs. 57%) or open wounds (39% vs. 59%) (P

  20. The Effects of Explosive Blast as Compared to Post-traumatic Stress Disorder on Brain Function and Structure

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2013-04-01

    Neuropsychology (AACN). Chicago , Illinois. One of the challenges in assessing the essential neural features of mild TBI in veterans is that... Chicago , Illinois. The tool, preliminarily called the Minnesota Blast Exposure Screening Tool (MN-BEST; see Figure 12), complements current screening...the AACN. Chicago , Illinois. Examination of the number of post-concussive symptoms endorsed by the entire National Guard sample indicates that

  1. Seismic activity that accompanied the effusive and explosive eruptions during the 2004-2005 period at Volcán de Colima, Mexico

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Arámbula-Mendoza, R.; Lesage, P.; Valdés-González, C.; Varley, N. R.; Reyes-Dávila, G.; Navarro, C.

    2011-08-01

    Volcán de Colima is considered the most active in Mexico. A period of large eruptive activity occurred in 2004-2005. It began as a swarm of long-period events (LPs) in late September 2004, indicating the onset of growth of a new lava dome in its crater. Subsequently, avalanches of incandescent material and pyroclastic flows during a period of approximately 2 months occurred. Then, the activity became more explosive with moderate explosions. Finally, swarms of LPs accompanied the magma ascent and extrusion of small domes and vulcanian explosions with pyroclastic flows in 2005. This eruptive period was investigated with a continuous seismic signal study, cross-correlation of LPs and autoregressive analysis of monochromatic LPs. For the vast majority of the explosions, an increase in the rate of seismic energy was observed with the Seismic Spectral Energy Measurement (SSEM) from 1 to 3 Hz, before each explosive event. This increase in energy is proportional to the increase in the rate of LPs, probably as a result of an increase in the emission rate. Applying the material failure forecasting method (FFM) and using SSEM inverse of parameter, the time of the explosions is estimated as the time when the adjusted line reaches the null value. We observe a systematic delay of a few hours between the real time of occurrence of the explosions and the estimated time. This suggests that more complex processes than pure damaging of the plug occur before the explosions. The swarms associated with the large explosions include a large proportion of LPs with similar waveforms. They form a dozen of families which stay during the whole period of activity and which indicate repetitive sources. Some of the families are active only before the explosions and could therefore be used as early warning. Monochromatic LP events occurred during this period, some of them just some hours before an explosion. However, no clear relationship between their occurrence and the explosions could be found.

  2. Semiconductor bridge (SCB) igniter

    DOEpatents

    Bickes, Jr., Robert W.; Schwarz, Alfred C.

    1987-01-01

    In an explosive device comprising an explosive material which can be made to explode upon activation by activation means in contact therewith; electrical activation means adaptable for activating said explosive material such that it explodes; and electrical circuitry in operation association with said activation means; there is an improvement wherein said activation means is an electrical material which, at an elevated temperature, has a negative temperature coefficient of electrical resistivity and which has a shape and size and an area of contact with said explosive material sufficient that it has an electrical resistance which will match the resistance requirements of said associated electrical circuitry when said electrical material is operationally associated with said circuitry, and wherein said electrical material is polycrystalline; or said electrical material is crystalline and (a) is mounted on a lattice matched substrate or (b) is partially covered with an intimately contacting metallization area which defines its area of contact with said explosive material.

  3. A Mouse Model of Blast-Induced mild Traumatic Brain Injury

    PubMed Central

    Rubovitch, Vardit; Ten-Bosch, Meital; Zohar, Ofer; Harrison, Catherine R.; Tempel-Brami, Catherine; Stein, Elliot; Hoffer, Barry J.; Balaban, Carey D.; Schreiber, Shaul; Chiu, Wen-Ta; Pick, Chaim G.

    2011-01-01

    Improvised explosive devices (IEDs) are one of the main causes for casualties among civilians and military personnel in the present war against terror. Mild traumatic brain injury from IEDs induces various degrees of cognitive, emotional and behavioral disturbances but knowledge of the exact brain pathophysiology following exposure to blast is poorly understood. The study was aimed at establishing a murine model for a mild BI-TBI that isolates low-level blast pressure effects to the brain without systemic injuries. An open-field explosives detonation was used to replicate, as closely as possible, low-level blast trauma in the battlefield or at a terror-attack site. No alterations in basic neurological assessment or brain gross pathology were found acutely in the blast-exposed mice. At 7 days post blast, cognitive and behavioral tests revealed significantly decreased performance at both 4 and 7 meters distance from the blast (5.5 and 2.5 PSI, respectively). At 30 days post-blast, clear differences were found in animals at both distances in the object recognition test, and in the 7 m group in the Y maze test. Using MRI, T1 weighted images showed an increased BBB permeability one month post-blast. DTI analysis showed an increase in fractional anisotropy (FA) and a decrease in radial diffusivity. These changes correlated with sites of up-regulation of manganese superoxide dismutase 2 in neurons and CXC-motif chemokine receptor 3 around blood vessels in fiber tracts. These results may represent brain axonal and myelin abnormalities. Cellular and biochemical studies are underway in order to further correlate the blast-induced cognitive and behavioral changes and to identify possible underlying mechanisms that may help develop treatment- and neuroprotective modalities. PMID:21946269

  4. Lava bubble-wall fragments formed by submarine hydrovolcanic explosions on Lo'ihi Seamount and Kilauea Volcano

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Clague, D.A.; Davis, A.S.; Bischoff, J.L.; Dixon, J.E.; Geyer, R.

    2000-01-01

    Glassy bubble-wall fragments, morphologically similar to littoral limu o Pele, have been found in volcanic sands erupted on Lo'ihi Seamount and along the submarine east rift zone of Kilauea Volcano. The limu o Pele fragments are undegassed with respect to H2O and S and formed by mild steam explosions. Angular glass sand fragments apparently form at similar, and greater, depths by cooling-contraction granulation. The limu o Pele fragments from Lo'ihi Seamount are dominantly tholeiitic basalt containing 6.25-7.25% MgO. None of the limu o Pele samples from Lo'ihi Seamount contains less than 5.57% MgO, suggesting that higher viscosity magmas do not form lava bubbles. The dissolved CO2 and H2O contents of 7 of the limu o Pele fragments indicate eruption at 1200??300 m depth (120??30 bar). These pressures exceed that generally thought to limit steam explosions. We conclude that hydrovolcanic eruptions are possible, with appropriate pre-mixing conditions, at pressures as great as 120 bar.

  5. Non-focusing active warhead

    DOEpatents

    Hornig, H.C.

    1998-12-22

    A non-nuclear, non-focusing, active warhead that comprises a high explosive charge contained within a casing of reactive metal is disclosed. When the high explosive is detonated, the reactive metal is dispersed and reacts with the air, which significantly increases the explosive yield of the warhead. The active warhead produces therefore much higher blast effects with significantly reduced weight compared to conventional munitions. The warhead is highly effective against such targets as aircraft which typically have thin fuselages, for example. The explosiveness of this warhead can be enhanced further by elevating the temperature and therefore the reactivity of the reactive metal before or during the explosion. New methods of enhancing the reactivity of the metal are also taught. 4 figs.

  6. Non-focusing active warhead

    DOEpatents

    Hornig, Howard C.

    1998-01-01

    A non-nuclear, non-focusing, active warhead that comprises a high explosive charge contained within a casing of reactive metal. When the high explosive is detonated, the reactive metal is dispersed and reacts with the air, which significantly increases the explosive yield of the warhead. The active warhead produces therefore much higher blast effects with significantly reduced weight compared to conventional munitions. The warhead is highly effective against such targets as aircraft which typically have thin fuselages, for example. The explosiveness of this warhead can be enhanced further by elevating the temperature and therefore the reactivity of the reactive metal before or during the explosion. New methods of enhancing the reactivity of the metal are also taught.

  7. 75 FR 2490 - Taking and Importing Marine Mammals; Naval Explosive Ordnance Disposal School Training Operations...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-01-15

    ... Importing Marine Mammals; Naval Explosive Ordnance Disposal School Training Operations Activities at Eglin...) for authorization to take marine mammals, by harassment, incidental to Naval Explosive Ordnance Disposal School (NEODS) training operations, military readiness activities, at Eglin AFB, FL from...

  8. Optimizing post activation potentiation for explosive activities in competitive sports

    PubMed Central

    Gołaś, Artur; Maszczyk, Adam; Mikołajec, Kazimierz; Stastny, Petr

    2016-01-01

    Abstract Post activation potentiation (PAP) has shown improved performance during movements requiring large muscular power output following contractions under near maximal load conditions. PAP can be described as an acute enhancement of performance or an enhancement of factors determining an explosive sports activity following a preload stimulus. In practice, PAP has been achieved by complex training, which involves a combination of a heavy loaded exercise followed by a biomechanically similar explosive activity, best if specific for a particular sport discipline. The main objective of this study was to investigate the effects of PAP on performance in explosive motor activities specific for basketball, luge and athletics throws. The novel approach to the experiments included individualized recovery time (IRT) between the conditioning exercise and the explosive activity. Additionally, the research groups were homogenous and included only competitive athletes of similar age and training experience. Thirty one well trained athletes from 3 different sport disciplines participated in the study. All athletes performed a heavy loaded conditioning activity (80-130%1RM) followed by a biomechanically similar explosive exercise, during which power (W) or the rate of power development (W/s/kg) was evaluated. The results of our experiment confirmed the effectiveness of PAP with well-trained athlets during explosive motor activities such as jumping, throwing and pushing. Additionally, our research showed that eccentric supramaximal intensities (130% 1RM) can be effective in eliciting PAP in strength trained athletes. Our experiments also showed that the IRT should be individualized because athletes differ in the strength level, training experience and muscle fiber structure. In the three experiments conducted with basketball players, track and field athletes and luge athletes, the optimal IRT equaled 6 min. This justifies the need to individualize the volume and intensity of the CA, and especially the IRT, between the CA and the explosive activity. PMID:28149397

  9. Stress-induced activation of decomposition of organic explosives: a simple way to understand.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Chaoyang

    2013-01-01

    We provide a very simply way to understand the stress-induced activation of decomposition of organic explosives by taking the simplest explosive molecule nitromethane (NM) as a prototype and constraining one or two NM molecules in a shell to represent the condensed phrase of NM against the stress caused by tension and compression, sliding and rotational shear, and imperfection. The results show that the stress loaded on NM molecule can always reduce the barriers of its decomposition. We think the origin of this stress-induced activation is due to the increased repulsive intra- and/or inter- molecular interaction potentials in explosives resulted from the stress, whose release is positive to accelerate the decomposition. Besides, by these models, we can understand that the explosives in gaseous state are easier to analyze than those in condensed state and the voids in condensed explosives make them more sensitive to external stimuli relative to the perfect crystals.

  10. Analyses of Etna Eruptive Activity From 18th Century and Characterization of Flank Eruptions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    del Carlo, P.; Branca, S.; Coltelli, M.

    2003-12-01

    Etna explosive activity has usually been considered subordinate with respect to the effusive eruptions. Nevertheless, in the last decade and overall after the 2001 and 2002 flank eruptions, explosive activity has drawn the attention of the scientific and politic communities owing to the damages that the long-lasting ash fall caused to Sicily's economy. We analyzed the eruptions from the 18th century to find some analogous behavior of Etna in the past. A study of the Etna historical record (Branca and Del Carlo, 2003) evidenced that after the 1727 eruption, there are no more errors in the attribution of the year of the eruption. Furthermore from this time on, the scientific quality of the chronicles allowed us to obtain volcanological information and to estimate the magnitude of the major explosive events. The main goal of this work was to characterize the different typologies of Etna eruptions in the last three centuries. Meanwhile, we have tried to find the possible relationship between the two kinds of activity (explosive and effusive) in order to understand the complexity of the eruptive phenomena and define the short-term behavior of Etna. On the base of the predominance of the eruptive typology (effusive or explosive) we have classified the flank eruptions in three classes: i) Type 1: almost purely effusive; ii) Type 2: the intensity of explosive activity comparable with the effusive; iii) Type 3: almost purely explosive with minor lava effusion (only the 1763 La Montagnola and 2002 eruptions belong to this class). Long-lasting explosive activity is produced by flank eruptions with continuous ash emission and prolonged fallout on the flanks (e.g. 1763, 1811, 1852-53, 1886, 1892, 2001 and 2002 eruptions). At summit craters continuous activity is weaker, whereas the strongest explosive eruptions are short-lived events. Furthermore, from the 18th to 20th century there were several years of intense and discontinuous summit explosive activity, from high strombolian to fire fountain. This activity produced abundant ash fall in the whole volcano area reaching the Calabria region and Malta Island. Generally, some of these periods preceded important flank eruptions. Concerning the occurrence of the higher magnitude explosive events, we observe that at least one subplinian eruption occurred both in the 18th and 19th centuries. In the 20th century the increased quality of the scientific reports has allowed to recognize 6 subplinian eruptions from summit craters.

  11. Persistent explosive activity at Stromboli investigated with OP-FTIR and SO2 cameras

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Burton, M. R.; La Spina, A.; Sawyer, G. M.; Harris, A. J.

    2012-12-01

    Stromboli volcano in Italy exhibits what is perhaps one of the most well-known examples of cyclic activity, in the form of its regular explosions, which send a few m3 of material 100-200 m into the air every 10-20 minutes. Recent developments in measurements of volatile release from Stromboli using a series of novel approaches have allowed this cyclic behaviour to be examined in detail. In particular, the use of an automated OP-FTIR has revealed unprecedented detail in the dynamics of degassing from individual craters at the summit of Stromboli. Furthermore, the variations in composition of explosive degassing from Stromboli demonstrate a deep source ~2 km for the gas slugs which produce explosions at this volcano, in contrast to the commonly-held view that gas coalescence at shallow depth is responsible for the behaviour. The SO2 camera has revealed fascinating new details on the dynamics of degassing at Stromboli, and has allowed direct quantification of the amount of gas released during explosions and through quiescent degassing. The remarkable observation that 99% of degassing takes place quiescently, and that the explosions, whilst apparently more significant, are in fact a secondary process compared with the mass and energy involved in background, quiet processes. The new insight that the explosions are actually only a relatively minor aspect of the activity (in terms of mass and energy) actually makes the regularity of the cyclic explosive activity still more remarkable. In this paper we present a detailed overview of the state of the art of our understanding of cyclic explosive activity at Stromboli volcano from the perspective of recent advances in geochemical monitoring of the gas emissions. We also report initial results from a multidisciplinary campaign on Stromboli which utilised both OP-FTIR and SO2 camera techniques.

  12. Bioeffects on an In Vitro Model by Small-Scale Explosives and Shock Wave Overpressure Impacts

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2017-11-01

    still poorly understood, and proper diagnosis and treatment.17 Many TBIs—in particular, mild TBIs (mTBI)—seldom have neuroanatomical abnormalities ...performed for 24 h using 16 processors for time integrated out to 2 ms with 2.8 × 105 cell calculation. All blast simulations were conducted on the US...1. Williamson V, Mulhall E. Invisible wounds: psychological and neurological injuries confront a new generation of veterans. Iraq and Afghanistan

  13. Developing a Novel Eye Tracking Paradigm to Assess Mild Traumatic Brain Injury: A Feasibility Study of the Bethesda Eye and Attention Measure (BEAM)

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2012-10-01

    system, which includes the retina, lateral geniculate nucleus, striate cortex, superior colliculus, parietal cortex, frontal eye fields... body penetrating the brain, forces generated from events such as a blast or explosion, or other forces yet to be defined. Consistent with the...and loss of productivity (47-57%; Tanielian & Jaycox, 2008). With advances in modern medicine and neuroimaging, more Service Members and civilians

  14. Evaluation of sulfur dioxide emissions from explosive volcanism: the 1982-1983 eruptions of Galunggung, Java, Indonesia

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Bluth, G.J.S.; Casadevall, T.J.; Schnetzler, C.C.; Doiron, S.D.; Walter, Louis S.; Krueger, A.J.; Badruddin, M.

    1994-01-01

    Galunggung volcano, Java, awoke from a 63-year quiescence in April 1982, and erupted sporadically through January 1983. During its most violent period from April to October, the Cikasasah Volcano Observatory reported 32 large and 56 moderate to small eruptions. From April 5 through September 19 the Total Ozone Mapping Spectrometer (TOMS), carried on NASA's Nimbus-7 satellite, detected and measured 24 different sulfur dioxide clouds; an estimated 1730 kilotons (kt) of SO2 were outgassed by these explosive eruptions. The trajectories, and rapid dispersion rates, of the SO2 clouds were consistent with injection altitudes below the tropopause. An additional 300 kt of SO2 were estimated to have come from 64 smaller explosive eruptions, based on the detection limit of the TOMS instrument. For the first time, an extended period of volcanic activity was monitored by remote sensing techniques which enabled observations of both the entire SO2 clouds produced by large explosive eruptions (using TOMS), and the relatively lower levels of SO2 emissions during non-explosive outgassing (using the Correlation Spectrometer, or COSPEC). Based on COSPEC measurements from August 1982 to January 1983, and on the relationship between explosive and non-explosive degassing, approximately 400 kt of SO2 were emitted during non-explosive activity. The total sulfur dioxide outgassed from Galunggung volcano from April 1982 to January 1983 is calculated to be 2500 kt (?? 30%) from both explosive and non-explosive activity. While Galunggung added large quantities of sulfur dioxide to the atmosphere, its sporadic emissions occurred in relatively small events distributed over several months, and reached relatively low altitudes, and are unlikely to have significantly affected aerosol loading of the stratosphere in 1982 by volcanic activity. ?? 1994.

  15. Automatic Detection of Landslides at Stromboli Volcano

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Giudicepietro, F.; Esposito, A. M.; D'Auria, L.; Peluso, R.; Martini, M.

    2011-12-01

    In this work we present an automatic system for the landslide detection at Stromboli volcano that has proved to be effective both during the 2007 effusive eruption and in the recent (2 August 2011) volcanic activity. The study of the landslides at Stromboli is important because they could be considered short-term precursors of effusive eruptions, as seen during the 2007 eruption, and in addition they allow to improve the monitoring of the gravitational instabilities of the Sciara del Fuoco flank. The proposed system uses a two-class MLP (Multi Layer Perceptron) neural network in order to discriminate the landslides from other seismic signals usually recorded at Stromboli, such as explosion-quakes and volcanic tremor. To train and test the network we used a dataset of 537 signals, including 267 landslides and 270 other events (130 explosion-quakes and 140 tremor signals). The net performance is of 98.7%, if averaged over different net configurations, and of 99.5% for the best net performance. Based on the neural network response, the automatic system calculates a Landslide Percentage Index (LPI) defined on the number of signals identified as landslides by the net on a given temporal interval in order to recognize anomalies in the landslide rate. This system was sensitive to the signals produced by the flow of lava front during a recent mild effusive episode on the "La Sciara del Fuoco" slope.

  16. Granular activated carbon pilot treatment studies for explosives removal from contaminated groundwater

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

    Wujcik, W.J.; Lowe, W.L.; Marks, P.J.

    1992-08-01

    Manufacturing activities at Army Ammunition Plants (AAPs) result in the production of organic wastewaters that contain both explosive residues and other organic chemicals. As a result of past waste practices at such plants, explosive residues may leach through the soil and contaminate groundwater. Two pilot studies were performed to evaluate the use of granular activated carbon (GAC) to treat groundwater contaminated with explosives at Badger AAP and Milan AAP. An additional goal of the Badger AAP study was to examine the potential discharge of explosives 2,4-DNT and 2,6-DNT from a packed column air stripper used to remove volatile organic compoundsmore » from groundwater. A laboratory method was developed for the BAAP study to permit lower detection levels for 2,4-DNT and 2,6-DNT (0.46[mu]g/L and 0.017 [mu]g/L, respectively). The studies concluded that removal of explosives from groundwater using continuous flow GAC is feasible. 14 refs., 10 figs., 11 tabs.« less

  17. Installation-Restoration Program environmental-technology development. Task order 3. Use of activated carbon for treatment of explosives-contaminated ground water at the Badger Army Ammunition Plant (BAAP). Final report Jun 88-Aug 89

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

    Wujcik, W.J.; Lowe, W.L.; Marks, P.J.

    1989-08-01

    The United States Army operates explosives manufacturing plants to produce various forms of explosives used in military ordnance. Manufacturing activities at such plants result in the production of organic wastewaters that contain both explosive residues and other organic chemicals. Several treatment technologies have been developed to treat these wastewaters for final discharge. Past waste handling practices at explosives manufacturing plants commonly included the use of the unlined lagoons or pits for containing process wastewaters. As a result of these past practices, some explosives residues may leach through the soil and contaminated groundwater. Therefore, the treatment of contaminated groundwater may bemore » required.« less

  18. Use of tissue adhesive as a field expedient barrier dressing for hand wounds in disaster responders.

    PubMed

    Levy, Matthew J; Tang, Nelson

    2014-02-01

    Injuries sustained by disaster responders can impede the affected individuals' ability to perform critical functions and often require the redirection of already scarce resources. Soft-tissue injuries to the hand are commonly experienced by disaster workers and even seemingly mild lacerations can pose the potential for significant complications in such hazard-filled environments. In this report, the authors describe their experience utilizing tissue adhesive to create a functional and effective barrier dressing for a hand injury sustained by a responder at the West, Texas USA fertilizer plant explosion. This technique of wound management allowed the patient to continue performing essential onsite functions for a sustained period following the explosion and the subsequent investigative processes. At the 30-day follow-up, the wound was well healed and without complications. This technique proved to be a valuable method of field expedient wound management and is worthy of consideration in similar future circumstances.

  19. Effects of High Intensity Interval Training on Increasing Explosive Power, Speed, and Agility

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fajrin, F.; Kusnanik, N. W.; Wijono

    2018-01-01

    High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is a type of exercise that combines high-intensity exercise and low intensity exercise in a certain time interval. This type of training is very effective and efficient to improve the physical components. The process of improving athletes achievement related to how the process of improving the physical components, so the selection of a good practice method will be very helpful. This study aims to analyze how is the effects of HIIT on increasing explosive power, speed, and agility. This type of research is quantitative with quasi-experimental methods. The design of this study used the Matching-Only Design, with data analysis using the t-test (paired sample t-test). After being given the treatment for six weeks, the results showed there are significant increasing in explosive power, speed, and agility. HIIT in this study used a form of exercise plyometric as high-intensity exercise and jogging as mild or moderate intensity exercise. Increase was due to the improvement of neuromuscular characteristics that affect the increase in muscle strength and performance. From the data analysis, researchers concluded that, Exercises of High Intensity Interval Training significantly effect on the increase in Power Limbs, speed, and agility.

  20. Infrasound as a Long Standing Tool for Monitoring Continental Ecuadorean Volcanoes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ruiz, M. C.; Ortiz, H. D.; Hernandez, S.; Palacios, P.; Anzieta, J. C.

    2017-12-01

    In the last 10 years, infrasound and seismic methods have been successfully used in the continuous monitoring of eruptive activity at Tunguruhua, Reventador, Sangay and Cotopaxi volcanoes. After a dormant period of 81 years, Tungurahua woke up in 1999 and has since been characterized by vulcanian and strombolian eruptions. Beginning in July 2006, a permanent seismo-infrasonic network with 5 collocated seismic and infrasound sensors was installed through a cooperation with Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). It recorded more than 6,000 explosions at Tungurahua with reduced amplitudes larger than 270 Pa at 1 km from the active crater, including 3 explosions greater than 6000 Pa associated with short-lived explosions. Major and long sustained eruptions (July 14-15, 2006; August 16-17, 2006; February 6-8, 2008, May 28, 2010; December 4, 2010; December 3-4, 2011; August 18, 2012) generated seismic and infrasound tremors with complex waveforms. In 2002, Reventador volcano produced the largest eruption in Ecuador in the last century (VEI-4). Since September 2012, alternating periods of strombolian activity and short-lived vulcanian explosions are monitored by seismic and microbarometer sensors located on the south-east border of the caldera rim. Non-steady activity with fluctuations between quiescence and frequent explosions, tremor, and chugging events is recorded. Infrasound of explosions ranges from 75 to 6350 Pa in reduced peak-to-peak amplitudes. Sangay, a remote and very active volcano, is monitored by a broadband seismometer and microbarometer collocated at 8 km from the summit. Active periods during the last few months are characterized by explosion events followed by lava flows and small ash emissions. In March 2016, more than 100 explosions were recorded in a single day. Finally, in 2015 Cotopaxi volcano began its recent eruptive period after 138 years of quiescence. One month after the initiation of its eruptive activity, 76 harmonic infrasound signals with a characteristic 5 sec. period were recorded between September and December 2015 that have been related to outgassing or explosive bubble bursts that excite resonance modes in unfilled craters.

  1. Multispectral Observations of Explosive Gas Emissions from Santiaguito, Guatemala

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Carn, S. A.; Watson, M.; Thomas, H.; Rodriguez, L. A.; Campion, R.; Prata, F. J.

    2016-12-01

    Santiaguito volcano, Guatemala, has been persistently active for decades, producing frequent explosions from its actively growing lava dome. Repeated release of volcanic gases contains information about conduit processes during the cyclical explosions at Santiaguito, but the composition of the gas phase and the amount of volatiles released in each explosion remains poorly constrained. In addition to its persistent activity, Santiaguito offers an exceptional opportunity to investigate lava dome degassing processes since the upper surface of the active lava dome can be viewed from the summit of neighboring Santa Maria. In January 2016 we conducted multi-spectral observations of Santiaguito's explosive eruption plumes and passive degassing from multiple perspectives as part of the first NSF-sponsored `Workshop on Volcanoes' instrument deployment. Gas measurements included open-path Fourier-Transform infrared (OP-FTIR) spectroscopy from the Santa Maria summit, coincident with ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) camera and UV Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (DOAS) from the El Mirador site below Santiaguito's active Caliente lava dome. Using the OP-FTIR in passive mode with the Caliente lava dome as the source of IR radiation, we were able to collect IR spectra at high temporal resolution prior to and during two explosions of Santiaguito on 7-8 January, with volcanic SO2 and H2O emissions detected. UV and IR camera data provide constraints on the total SO2 burden in the emissions (and potentially the volcanic ash burden), which coupled with the FTIR gas ratios provides new constraints on the mass and composition of volatiles driving explosions at Santiaguito. All gas measurements indicate significant volatile release during explosions with limited degassing during repose periods. In this presentation we will present ongoing analysis of the unique Santiaguito gas dataset including estimation of the total volatile mass released in explosions and an intercomparison of SO2 amounts recorded by the UV and IR instruments.

  2. Review of potential impacts to sea turtles from underwater explosive removal of offshore structures

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

    Viada, Stephen T.; Hammer, Richard M.; Racca, Roberto

    2008-05-15

    The purpose of this study was to collect and synthesize existing information relevant to the explosive removal of offshore structures (EROS) in aquatic environments. Data sources were organized and summarized by topic - explosive removal methods, physics of underwater explosions, sea turtle resources, documented impacts to sea turtles, and mitigation of effects. Information was gathered via electronic database searches and literature source review. Bulk explosive charges are the most commonly used technique in EROS. While the physical principles of underwater detonations and the propagation of pressure and acoustic waves are well understood, there are significant gaps in the application ofmore » this knowledge. Impacts to sea turtles from explosive removal operations may range from non-injurious effects (e.g. acoustic annoyance; mild tactile detection or physical discomfort) to varying levels of injury (i.e. non-lethal and lethal injuries). Very little information exists regarding the impacts of underwater explosions on sea turtles. Effects of explosions on turtles often must be inferred from documented effects to other vertebrates with lungs or other gas-containing organs, such as mammals and most fishes. However, a cautious approach should be used when determining impacts to sea turtles based on extrapolations from other vertebrates. The discovery of beached sea turtles and bottlenose dolphins following an explosive platform removal event in 1986 prompted the initiation of formal consultation between the U.S. Department of the Interior, Minerals Management Service (MMS) and the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), authorized through the Endangered Species Act Section 7, to determine a mechanism to minimize potential impacts to listed species. The initial consultation resulted in a requirement for oil and gas companies to obtain a permit (through separate consultations on a case-by-case basis) prior to using explosives in Federal waters. Because many offshore structure removal operations are similar, a 'generic' Incidental Take Statement was established by the NMFS that describes requirements to protect sea turtles when an operator's individual charge weights did not exceed 50 lb (23 kg). Requirements associated with the Incidental Take Permit were revised in 2003 and 2006 to accommodate advances in explosive charge technologies, removals of structures in deeper waters, and adequate protection of deep water marine mammal species in Gulf of Mexico waters. Generally, these requirements include pre- and post-detonation visual monitoring using standard surface and aerial survey methods for sea turtles and marine mammals, and, in some scenarios, passive acoustic survey methods for marine mammals within a specified radius from an offshore structure. The survey program has been successful in mitigating impacts to sea turtles associated with EROS. However, even with these protective measures in place, there have been observations of sea turtles affected by explosive platform removals.« less

  3. High-speed imaging and small-scale explosive characterization techniques to understand effects of primary blast-induced injury on nerve cell structure and function

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Piehler, T.; Banton, R.; Zander, N.; Duckworth, J.; Benjamin, R.; Sparks, R.

    2018-01-01

    Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is often associated with blast exposure. Even in the absence of penetrating injury or evidence of tissue injury on imaging, blast TBI may trigger a series of neural/glial cellular and functional changes. Unfortunately, the diagnosis and proper treatment of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) caused by explosive blast is challenging, as it is not easy to clinically distinguish blast from non-blast TBI on the basis of patient symptoms. Damage to brain tissue, cell, and subcellular structures continues to occur slowly and in a manner undetectable by conventional imaging techniques. The threshold shock impulse levels required to induce damage and the cumulative effects upon multiple exposures are not well characterized. Understanding how functional and structural damage from realistic blast impact at cellular and tissue levels at variable timescales after mTBI events may be vital for understanding this injury phenomenon and for linking mechanically induced structural changes with measurable effects on the nervous system. Our working hypothesis is that there is some transient physiological dysfunction occurring at cellular and subcellular levels within the central nervous system due to primary blast exposure. We have developed a novel in vitro indoor experimental system that uses real military explosive charges to more accurately represent military blast exposure and to probe the effects of primary explosive blast on dissociated neurons. We believe this system offers a controlled experimental method to analyze and characterize primary explosive blast-induced cellular injury and to understand threshold injury phenomenon. This paper will also focus on the modeling aspect of our work and how it relates to the experimental work.

  4. 75 FR 5575 - Taking and Importing Marine Mammals; Navy Training Activities Conducted in the Gulf of Alaska

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-02-03

    ... present in the area to sound from various active tactical sonar sources or to pressure from underwater... utilizing mid- and high frequency active sonar sources and explosive detonations. These sonar and explosive...

  5. Feasibility of culvert IED detection using thermal neutron activation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Faust, Anthony A.; McFee, John E.; Clifford, Edward T. H.; Andrews, Hugh Robert; Mosquera, Cristian; Roberts, William C.

    2012-06-01

    Bulk explosives hidden in culverts pose a serious threat to the Canadian and allied armies. Culverts provide an opportunity to conceal insurgent activity, avoid the need for detectable surface disturbances, and limit the applicability of conventional sub-surface sensing techniques. Further, in spite of the large masses of explosives that can be employed, the large sensor{target separation makes detection of the bulk explosive content challeng- ing. Defence R&D Canada { Sueld and Bubble Technology Industries have been developing thermal neutron activation (TNA) sensors for detection of buried bulk explosives for over 15 years. The next generation TNA sensor, known as TNA2, incorporates a number of improvements that allow for increased sensor-to-target dis- tances, making it potentially feasible to detect large improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in culverts using TNA. Experiments to determine the ability of TNA2 to detect improvised explosive devices in culverts are described, and the resulting signal levels observed for relevant quantities of explosives are presented. Observations conrm that bulk explosives detection using TNA against a culvert-IED is possible, with large charges posing a detection challenge at least as dicult as that of a deeply buried anti-tank landmine. Because of the prototype nature of the TNA sensor used, it is not yet possible to make denitive statements about the absolute sensitivity or detection time. Further investigation is warranted.

  6. Controlled Low-Pressure Blast-Wave Exposure Causes Distinct Behavioral and Morphological Responses Modelling Mild Traumatic Brain Injury, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, and Comorbid Mild Traumatic Brain Injury-Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.

    PubMed

    Zuckerman, Amitai; Ram, Omri; Ifergane, Gal; Matar, Michael A; Sagi, Ram; Ostfeld, Ishay; Hoffman, Jay R; Kaplan, Zeev; Sadot, Oren; Cohen, Hagit

    2017-01-01

    The intense focus in the clinical literature on the mental and neurocognitive sequelae of explosive blast-wave exposure, especially when comorbid with post-traumatic stress-related disorders (PTSD) is justified, and warrants the design of translationally valid animal studies to provide valid complementary basic data. We employed a controlled experimental blast-wave paradigm in which unanesthetized animals were exposed to visual, auditory, olfactory, and tactile effects of an explosive blast-wave produced by exploding a thin copper wire. By combining cognitive-behavioral paradigms and ex vivo brain MRI to assess mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) phenotype with a validated behavioral model for PTSD, complemented by morphological assessments, this study sought to examine our ability to evaluate the biobehavioral effects of low-intensity blast overpressure on rats, in a translationally valid manner. There were no significant differences between blast- and sham-exposed rats on motor coordination and strength, or sensory function. Whereas most male rats exposed to the blast-wave displayed normal behavioral and cognitive responses, 23.6% of the rats displayed a significant retardation of spatial learning acquisition, fulfilling criteria for mTBI-like responses. In addition, 5.4% of the blast-exposed animals displayed an extreme response in the behavioral tasks used to define PTSD-like criteria, whereas 10.9% of the rats developed both long-lasting and progressively worsening behavioral and cognitive "symptoms," suggesting comorbid PTSD-mTBI-like behavioral and cognitive response patterns. Neither group displayed changes on MRI. Exposure to experimental blast-wave elicited distinct behavioral and morphological responses modelling mTBI-like, PTSD-like, and comorbid mTBI-PTSD-like responses. This experimental animal model can be a useful tool for elucidating neurobiological mechanisms underlying the effects of blast-wave-induced mTBI and PTSD and comorbid mTBI-PTSD.

  7. The role of biomarkers and MEG-based imaging markers in the diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder and blast-induced mild traumatic brain injury.

    PubMed

    Huang, Mingxiong; Risling, Mårten; Baker, Dewleen G

    2016-01-01

    Pervasive use of improvised explosive devices (IEDs), rocket-propelled grenades, and land mines in the recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan has brought traumatic brain injury (TBI) and its impact on health outcomes into public awareness. Blast injuries have been deemed signature wounds of these wars. War-related TBI is not new, having become prevalent during WWI and remaining medically relevant in WWII and beyond. Medicine's past attempts to accurately diagnose and disentangle the pathophysiology of war-related TBI parallels current lines of inquiry and highlights limitations in methodology and attribution of symptom etiology, be it organic, psychological, or behavioral. New approaches and biomarkers are needed. Serological biomarkers and biomarkers of injury obtained with imaging techniques represent cornerstones in the translation between experimental data and clinical observations. Experimental models for blast related TBI and PTSD can generate critical data on injury threshold, for example for white matter injury from acceleration. Carefully verified and validated models can be evaluated with gene expression arrays and proteomics to identify new candidates for serological biomarkers. Such models can also be analyzed with diffusion MRI and microscopy in order to identify criteria for detection of diffuse white matter injuries, such as DAI (diffuse axonal injury). The experimental models can also be analyzed with focus on injury outcome in brain stem regions, such as locus coeruleus or nucleus raphe magnus that can be involved in response to anxiety changes. Mild (and some moderate) TBI can be difficult to diagnose because the injuries are often not detectable on conventional MRI or CT. There is accumulating evidence that injured brain tissues in TBI patients generate abnormal low-frequency magnetic activity (ALFMA, peaked at 1-4Hz) that can be measured and localized by magnetoencephalography (MEG). MEG imaging detects TBI abnormalities at the rates of 87% for the mild TBI, group (blast-induced plus non-blast causes) and 100% for the moderate group. Among the mild TBI patients, the rates of abnormalities are 96% and 77% for the blast and non-blast TBI groups, respectively. There is emerging evidence based on fMRI and MEG studies showing hyper-activity in the amygdala and hypo-activity in pre-frontal cortex in individuals with PTSD. MEG signal may serve as a sensitive imaging marker for mTBI, distinguishable from abnormalities generated in association with PTSD. More work is needed to fully describe physiological mechanisms of post-concussive symptoms. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  8. Seismicity and infrasound associated with explosions at Mount St. Helens, 2004-2005: Chapter 6 in A volcano rekindled: the renewed eruption of Mount St. Helens, 2004-2006

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Moran, Seth C.; McChesney, Patrick J.; Lockhart, Andrew B.; Sherrod, David R.; Scott, William E.; Stauffer, Peter H.

    2008-01-01

    Six explosions occurred during 2004-5 in association with renewed eruptive activity at Mount St. Helens, Washington. Of four explosions in October 2004, none had precursory seismicity and two had explosion-related seismic tremor that marked the end of the explosion. However, seismicity levels dropped following each of the October explosions, providing the primary instrumental means for explosion detection during the initial vent-clearing phase. In contrast, explosions on January 16 and March 8, 2005, produced noticeable seismicity in the form of explosion-related tremor, infrasonic signals, and, in the case of the March 8 explosion, an increase in event size ~2 hours before the explosion. In both 2005 cases seismic tremor appeared before any infrasonic signals and was best recorded on stations located within the crater. These explosions demonstrated that reliable explosion detection at volcanoes like Mount St. Helens requires seismic stations within 1-2 km of the vent and stations with multiple acoustic sensors.

  9. Volcano Inflation prior to Gas Explosions at Semeru Volcano, Indonesia

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nishimura, T.; Iguchi, M.; Kawaguchi, R.; Surono, S.; Hendrasto, M.; Rosadi, U.

    2010-12-01

    Semeru volcano in east Java, Indonesia, is well known to exhibit small vulcanian eruptions at the summit crater. Such eruptive activity stopped on April 2009, but volcanic earthquakes started to occur in August and a lava dome was found in the summit crater on November. Since then, lava sometimes flows downward on the slope and small explosions emitting steams from active crater frequently occur every a few to a few tens of minutes. Since the explosions repeatedly occur with short intervals and the active crater is located close to the summit with an altitude of 3676m, the explosions are considered to originate from the gas (steams) from magma itself in the conduit and not to be caused by interactions of magma with the underground water. We installed a tiltmeter at the summit on March 2010 to study the volcanic eruption mechanisms. The tiltmeter (Pinnacle hybrid type, accuracy of measurement is 1 nrad ) was set at a depth of about 1 m around the summit about 500 m north from the active crater. The data stored every 1 s in the internal memory was uploaded every 6 hours by a small data logger with GPS time correction function. More than one thousand gas explosion events were observed for about 2 weeks. We analyze the tilt records as well as seismic signals recorded at stations of CVGHM, Indonesia. The tilt records clearly show uplift of the summit about 20 to 30 seconds before each explosion. Uplifts before large explosions reach to about 20 - 30 n rad, which is almost equivalent to the volume increase of about 100 m^3 beneath the crater. To examine the eruption magnitude dependence on the uplift, we classify the eruptions into five groups based on the amplitudes of seismograms associated with explosions. We stack the tilt records for these groups to reduce noises in the signals and to get general characteristics of the volcano inflations. The results show that the amplitudes of uplifts are almost proportional to the amplitudes of explosion earthquakes while the preceding time of uplift is almost constant (20 s - 30 s). This implies that the inflation rate controls the magnitude of gas explosions. The observed preceding time of inflation prior to gas explosions are much shorter than those for the inflations before magmatic explosions (Nishi et al., 2007; Iguchi et al., 2008), which suggests that the pressurization processes in shallow conduit for gas explosions are different from that for explosions emitting ashes.

  10. 76 FR 56224 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection, Comments Requested: Records and...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-09-12

    ..., and Users Licensed Under Title 18 U.S.C. Chapter 40 Explosives ACTION: 30-Day Notice of Information... Disposition By Explosives Importers, Manufacturers, Dealers, and Users Licensed Under Title 18 U.S.C... under 18 U.S.C. chapter 40 Explosives. The records are used to show where and to whom explosive...

  11. Biotransformation of explosives by Reticulitermes flavipes--associated termite Endosymbionts.

    PubMed

    Indest, Karl J; Eaton, Hillary L; Jung, Carina M; Lounds, Caly B

    2014-01-01

    Termites have an important role in the carbon and nitrogen cycles despite their reputation as destructive pests. With the assistance of microbial endosymbionts, termites are responsible for the conversion of complex biopolymers into simple carbon substrates. Termites also rely on endosymbionts for fixing and recycling nitrogen. As a result, we hypothesize that termite bacterial endosymbionts are a novel source of metabolic pathways for the transformation of nitrogen-rich compounds like explosives. Explosives transformation capability of termite (Reticulitermes flavipes)-derived endosymbionts was determined in media containing the chemical constituents nitrotriazolone (NTO) and hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX) that comprise new insensitive explosive formulations. Media dosed with 40 µg/ml of explosive was inoculated with surface-sterilized, macerated termites. Bacterial isolates capable of explosives transformation were characterized by 16S rRNA sequencing. Termite-derived enrichment cultures demonstrated degradation activity towards the explosives NTO, RDX, as well as the legacy explosive 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT). Three isolates with high similarity to the Enterobacteriaceae(Enterobacter, Klebsiella) were able to transform TNT and NTO within 2 days, while isolates with high similarity to Serratia marcescens and Lactococcus lactis were able to transform RDX. Termite endosymbionts harbor a range of metabolic activities and possess unique abilities to transform nitrogen-rich explosives. © 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  12. Sunset Crater, AZ: Evolution of a highly explosive basaltic eruption as indicated by granulometry and clast componentry

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Allison, C. M.; Clarke, A. B.; Pioli, L.; Alfano, F.

    2011-12-01

    Basaltic scoria cone volcanoes are the most abundant volcanic edifice on Earth and occur in all tectonic settings. Basaltic magmas have lower viscosities, higher temperatures, and lower volatile contents than silicic magmas, and therefore generally have a lower potential for explosive activity. However, basaltic eruptions display great variability in eruptive style, from mild lava flows to more energetic explosions with large plumes. The San Francisco Volcanic Field (SFVF) in northern Arizona, active from 6 Ma-present, consists of over 600 volcanoes, mostly alkali basalt scoria cones, and five silicic centers [Wood and Kienle (1990), Cambridge University Press]. The eruption of Sunset Crater in the SFVF during the Holocene was an anomalously large basaltic explosive eruption, consisting of eight tephra-bearing phases and three lava flows [Amos (1986), MS thesis, ASU]. Typical scoria cone-forming eruptions have volumes <0.1km3 DRE, while the Sunset Crater deposit is at least 0.6km3 DRE [Amos (1986)]. The phases vary in size and style; the beginning stages of explosive activity (phases 1-2) were considerably smaller than phases 3-5, classified as subplinian. Due to its young age, the eruptive material is fresh and the deposit is well-preserved. We sampled the first five tephra units at 25 locations, ranging from 6 km to 20 km from the vent, concentrating our efforts in the downwind direction (E and SE of the vent) along the primary dispersal axes of several phases. Notable variations among the first five phases were found from evaluation of juvenile clast componentry, with each phase containing some proportion of red, grey, and glassy to iridescent clasts. The red and grey clasts are sub-rounded to rounded with high sphericity, while the other clasts are highly angular and slightly elongate, with blue-black to gold glassy and iridescent surfaces. The glassy and iridescent clasts likely represent fresh, juvenile ejecta, which were quenched rapidly, whereas the red and grey rounded clasts may be the result of recycling of the cone or vent-fill material. Alternatively, the differences among the populations may represent lateral variations in conduit flow conditions. In general, phases associated with large volumes and large dispersal areas tend to contain larger proportions of the glassy/iridescent clasts. Phase 1 has a large proportion of glassy clasts. Phase 2 has approximately half red and half grey clasts, as well as a small fraction of glassy material. Phase 3, which is the phase with the largest dispersal area, has a similar proportion of glassy clasts as phase 1. Phase 4, the largest by volume at ~0.11km3 DRE [Amos (1986)], has the highest proportion of glassy clasts. Phase 5 is comparable to phase 4 (similar fractions of each clast type), although the glassy surface changes from gold to black as clast size decreases. Each phase is well- to very well-sorted. Future work will include textural analysis of bubbles and crystals to understand the ascent and cooling history of the different clast types, and also to better interpret differences in abundance as related to variations in eruption or vent dynamics.

  13. Explosions within a Deep Crater: Detection from Land and Space

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Worden, A. K.; Dehn, J.; De Angelis, S.

    2012-12-01

    Many volcanoes in the North Pacific exhibit small scale explosive activity. This activity is typified by small explosions throwing ash, blocks, and spatter out of a central vent located within a crater. This material can be thrown out onto the flanks of the volcano if the vent is near enough to the crater rim. However, at some volcanoes, the vent is tens to hundreds of meters below the crater rim. The crater walls constrain the erupted material, causing it to fall back into the vent. Infill of material clogs the vent and can cause future explosions to become muffled. The depth of the crater also inhibits clear views of the vent for satellite remote sensing. In order for a satellite to record an image of a very deep vent, it requires very near vertical pass angle (satellite zenith angle). This viewing geometry is rare, meaning that the majority of images at such volcanoes will show the flanks or the crater walls, not the actual vent or crater floor. A method was developed for using satellite data to monitor the frequency of small explosive activity at numerous volcanoes. By determining the frequency of small explosions seen as thermal features in satellite imagery, a baseline of activity was determined. Any changes from this baseline are then used to indicate possible changes in the volcanic system or eruptive activity of the volcano. This method was used on data collected at Mt. Chuginadak (Cleveland) in Alaska, Karymsky Volcano in Russia, and Stromboli Volcano in Italy with good results. The method was then applied to Shishaldin Volcano in Alaska but was not as useful in determining the activity of the volcano due to the depth of Shishaldin's central crater (400m). This highlights the importance of multi-disciplinary and multi-sensor research to determine the actual activity at a volcano. For this project, explosions at Shishaldin Volcano were counted in both satellite data (thermal anomalies) and seismic data (explosion signals) for a time period from 2008-2010. These datasets are then compared to determine if there is a relationship that can be carried through the data, or if there is any other connecting factor to aid in the detection and monitoring of small scale explosive activity at volcanoes with vents deep within a crater. If a distinguishing factor can be verified by looking at a location with both satellite and seismic monitoring, it may aid in the monitoring of volcanoes where land based monitoring is not safe or financially viable.

  14. Neurotransmitter Systems in a Mild Blast Traumatic Brain Injury Model: Catecholamines and Serotonin.

    PubMed

    Kawa, Lizan; Arborelius, Ulf P; Yoshitake, Takashi; Kehr, Jan; Hökfelt, Tomas; Risling, Mårten; Agoston, Denes

    2015-08-15

    Exposure to improvised explosive devices can result in a unique form of traumatic brain injury--blast-induced traumatic brain injury (bTBI). At the mild end of the spectrum (mild bTBI [mbTBI]), there are cognitive and mood disturbances. Similar symptoms have been observed in post-traumatic stress disorder caused by exposure to extreme psychological stress without physical injury. A role of the monoaminergic system in mood regulation and stress is well established but its involvement in mbTBI is not well understood. To address this gap, we used a rodent model of mbTBI and detected a decrease in immobility behavior in the forced swim test at 1 d post-exposure, coupled with an increase in climbing behavior, but not after 14 d or later, possibly indicating a transient increase in anxiety-like behavior. Using in situ hybridization, we found elevated messenger ribonucleic acid levels of both tyrosine hydroxylase and tryptophan hydroxylase 2 in the locus coeruleus and the dorsal raphe nucleus, respectively, as early as 2 h post-exposure. High-performance liquid chromatography analysis 1 d post-exposure primarily showed elevated noradrenaline levels in several forebrain regions. Taken together, we report that exposure to mild blast results in transient changes in both anxiety-like behavior and brain region-specific molecular changes, implicating the monoaminergic system in the pathobiology of mbTBI.

  15. The effect of explosive percentage on underwater explosion energy release of hexanitrohexaazaisowurtzitane and octogen based aluminized explosives

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jiao, Qingjie; Wang, Qiushi; Nie, Jianxin; Guo, Xueyong; Zhang, Wei; Fan, Wenqi

    2018-03-01

    To control the explosion energy output by optimizing explosive components is a key requirement in a number of different application areas. The effect of different Al/O Ratio on underwater explosion of aluminized explosives has been studied detailedly. However, the effect of explosive percentage in the same Al/O Ratio is rarely researched, especially for Hexanitrohexaazaisowurtzitane (CL-20) based aluminized explosives. In this study, we performed the underwater explosion experiments with 1.2-kilogram explosives in order to investigate the explosion energy released from CL-20 and Octogen (HMX) based aluminized explosives. The percentage of the explosive varied from 5% to 30% and it is shown that: the shockwave peak pressure (pm) grows gradually; shock wave energy (Es) continues increasing, bubble energy (Eb) increases then decreases peaking at 15% for both formulas, and the total energy (E) and energy release rate (η) peak at 20% for CL-20 and 15% for HMX. This paper outlines the physical mechanism of Eb change under the influence of an aluminium initial reaction temperature and reaction active detonation product percentage coupling. The result shows that CL-20 is superior as a new high explosive and has promising application prospects in the regulation of explosive energy output for underwater explosives.

  16. Evaluation of active and passive near-millimeter-wave radiometric imaging techniques for detection of concealed objects

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Reber, E. E.; Foote, F. B.; Schellenbaum, R. L.; Bradley, R. G.

    1981-07-01

    The potential of radiometric imaging technique to detect shielded nuclear materials and explosives carried covertly by personnel was investigated. This method of detecting contraband depends upon the differences in emissivity and reflectivity of the contraband relative to human tissue. Explosives, unlike metals and metal composites, generally have high emissivities and low reflectivities that closely approximate those of human tissue making explosives difficult to detect. Samples of several common types of explosives (TNT, Detasheet, C4, and several types of water gels) were examined at the 1.4- and 3-mm wavelengths using active and passive radiometeric techniques.

  17. A Thermal Stability Test for Primary Explosive Stab Sensitizers: Study of the Thermal and Hydrolytic Stability of 2-Picryl-5-Nitrotetrazole,

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1984-02-01

    have been described previously (2]. The actual batch used was designated Batch D and was identical to that referred to as Batch C in Reference [2...Tetrazene was type RD1357 prepared at Materials Research Laboratories. The batch used was designated Batch 10/83(A). Lead Azide was type RD1343 and was...Preparation of Experimental Detonators Eperimental detonators were prepared in mild steel tubes, 6 mm o.d., 3.2 mm i.d., length 6 mm, prepared from

  18. 27 CFR 555.142 - Relief from disabilities (effective January 24, 2003).

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... Discharge from Active Duty (Department of Defense Form 214), Charge Sheet (Department of Defense Form 458... ALCOHOL, TOBACCO, FIREARMS, AND EXPLOSIVES, DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE EXPLOSIVES COMMERCE IN EXPLOSIVES... records, statements and other information concerning employment, medical history, military service...

  19. The Signature of the Central Engine in the Weakest Relativistic Explosions: GRB 100316D

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Margutti, R.; Soderberg, A. M.; Wieringa, M. H.; Edwards, P. G.; Chevalier, R. A.; Morsony, B. J.; Barniol Duran, R.; Sironi, L.; Zauderer, B. A.; Milisavljevic, D.; Kamble, A.; Pian, E.

    2013-11-01

    We present late-time radio and X-ray observations of the nearby sub-energetic gamma-ray burst (GRB)100316D associated with supernova (SN) 2010bh. Our broad-band analysis constrains the explosion properties of GRB 100316D to be intermediate between highly relativistic, collimated GRBs and the spherical, ordinary hydrogen-stripped SNe. We find that ~1049 erg is coupled to mildly relativistic (Γ = 1.5-2), quasi-spherical ejecta, expanding into a medium previously shaped by the progenitor mass-loss with a rate of \\dot{M}\\, {\\sim }\\, 10^{-5}\\,M_{\\odot }\\,yr^{-1} (for an assumed wind density profile and wind velocity vw = 1000 km s-1). The kinetic energy profile of the ejecta argues for the presence of a central engine and identifies GRB 100316D as one of the weakest central-engine-driven explosions detected to date. Emission from the central engine is responsible for an excess of soft X-ray radiation that dominates over the standard afterglow at late times (t > 10 days). We connect this phenomenology with the birth of the most rapidly rotating magnetars. Alternatively, accretion onto a newly formed black hole might explain the excess of radiation. However, significant departure from the standard fall-back scenario is required.

  20. [Acoustic trauma generated by exposure to gun powder].

    PubMed

    Arch-Tirado, Emilio; Garnica-Escamilla, Marco Antonio; Delgado-Hernández, Alhelí; Campos-Muñoz, Teodora; Rodríguez-Rodríguez, Lourdes; Verduzco-Mendoza, Antonio

    2014-01-01

    Noise-induced hearing loss has increased due to factors such as industrialization. It is estimated that one third of the world's population suffers from some degree of hearing loss caused by exposure to high-intensity noise. Exposure to noise can cause disease of various ear structures, especially destruction of outer hair cells, causing varying degrees of hearing lossObjective: To describe the audiological findings in a group of subjects who were exposed to a source of fireworks explosion in the state of Tlaxcala Mexico. We carried out an audiometric study in eight patients admitted to CENIAQ-INR who were exposed to a firecracker explosion. In each subject, airway with conventional pure tone audiometry from 125 to 8000 Hz was assessed using a clinical audiometer (model 622, Minimate, Madsen) Clinical case: Hearing loss at all frequencies was found in all eight patients, from mild to severe in both ears. Audiogram showed decreases from 4000 Hz, diagnosing third-degree acoustic trauma in all patients. The main symptom was reported by patients with tinnitus. Other scenarios in which patients report the presence of tinnitus are acoustic trauma due to use of audio players in symphony orchestra musicians and detonating military firearms. Audiometric assessment is recommended after an explosive accident as an accurate method to determine if there is any hearing impairment.

  1. Water-Soluble Nonconjugated Polymer Nanoparticles with Strong Fluorescence Emission for Selective and Sensitive Detection of Nitro-Explosive Picric Acid in Aqueous Medium.

    PubMed

    Liu, Shi Gang; Luo, Dan; Li, Na; Zhang, Wei; Lei, Jing Lei; Li, Nian Bing; Luo, Hong Qun

    2016-08-24

    Water-soluble nonconjugated polymer nanoparticles (PNPs) with strong fluorescence emission were prepared from hyperbranched poly(ethylenimine) (PEI) and d-glucose via Schiff base reaction and self-assembly in aqueous phase. Preparation of the PEI-d-glucose (PEI-G) PNPs was facile (one-pot reaction) and environmentally friendly under mild conditions. Also, PEI-G PNPs showed a high fluorescence quantum yield in aqueous solution, and the fluorescence properties (such as concentration- and solvent-dependent fluorescence) and origin of intrinsic fluorescence were investigated and discussed. PEI-G PNPs were then used to develop a fluorescent probe for fast, selective, and sensitive detection of nitro-explosive picric acid (PA) in aqueous medium, because the fluorescence can be easily quenched by PA whereas other nitro-explosives and structurally similar compounds only caused negligible quenching. A wide linear range (0.05-70 μM) and a low detection limit (26 nM) were obtained. The fluorescence quenching mechanism was carefully explored, and it was due to a combined effect of electron transfer, resonance energy transfer, and inner filter effect between PA and PEI-G PNPs, which resulted in good selectivity and sensitivity for PA. Finally, the developed sensor was successfully applied to detection of PA in environmental water samples.

  2. Insensitive detonator apparatus for initiating large failure diameter explosives

    DOEpatents

    Perry, III, William Leroy

    2015-07-28

    A munition according to a preferred embodiment can include a detonator system having a detonator that is selectively coupled to a microwave source that functions to selectively prime, activate, initiate, and/or sensitize an insensitive explosive material for detonation. The preferred detonator can include an explosive cavity having a barrier within which an insensitive explosive material is disposed and a waveguide coupled to the explosive cavity. The preferred system can further include a microwave source coupled to the waveguide such that microwaves enter the explosive cavity and impinge on the insensitive explosive material to sensitize the explosive material for detonation. In use the preferred embodiments permit the deployment and use of munitions that are maintained in an insensitive state until the actual time of use, thereby substantially preventing unauthorized or unintended detonation thereof.

  3. Characterization and Thermal Decomposition of Nanometer 2,2', 4,4', 6,6'-Hexanitro-Stilbene and 1,3,5-Triamino-2,4,6-Trinitrobenzene Fabricated by a Mechanical Milling Method

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Song, Xiaolan; Wang, Yi; Zhao, Shanshan; An, Chongwei; Wang, Jingyu; Zhang, Jinglin

    2018-04-01

    Nanometer 2,2', 4,4', 6,6'-hexanitro-stilbene (HNS) and 1,3,5-triamino-2,4,6-trinitrobenzene (TATB) were fabricated on a high-energy ball mill. The particle sizes of nano-HNS and nano-TATB were 98.4 and 57.8 nm, respectively. An SEM analysis was employed to image the micron morphology of nano-explosives. The particle size distribution was calculated by measuring the size of 300 particles in SEM images. XRD, IR, and XPS analyses were used to confirm whether the crystal phase, molecule structure, and surface elements were changed by the milling process. Thermal decomposition of nano-HNS and nano-TATB was investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermal-infrared spectrometry online (DSC-IR) analyses. Using DSC traces collected from different heating rates, the kinetic and thermodynamic parameters of thermolysis of raw and nano-explosives were calculated (activation energy (EK), pre-exponential factor (lnAK), rate constant (k), activation heat (ΔH≠), activation free energy (ΔG≠), activation entropy (ΔS≠), critical temperature of thermal explosion (Tb), and critical heating rate of thermal explosion (dT/dt)Tb). The results indicated that nano-explosives were of different kinetic and thermodynamic properties from starting explosives. In addition, the gas products for thermal decomposition of nano-HNS and nano-TATB were detected. Although HNS and TATB are both nitro explosives, the decomposition products of the two were different. A mechanism to explain the difference is proposed.

  4. Risk Assessment for the Explosive Washout Lagoons (Site 4), Umatilla Depot Activity Hermiston, Oregon

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1992-03-01

    Activity .............................. 2 2-2 Explosive Washout Lagoons (Site 4) and Washout Plant Area ............................... 2-3 3-1 Site 4...ponds for liquid wastes from bomb-washing operations in the washout plant . The measured dimensions of the flat bottoms of the two lagoons are 30 by 80...explosives washout plant system was drained, flushed, and cleaned approximately once each week from the mid-1950s until 1965. The lagoons received all of the

  5. The activity of the Colima volcano and morphological changes in the summit between 2004 and 2013

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Suarez-Plascencia, C.; Nunez-Cornu, F. J.; Camarena Garcia, M. A.

    2013-05-01

    Colima Volcano, located in the West of the Volcanic Mexican Belt (19° 30.696 N, 103° 37.026 W), has shown a new cycle of explosive activity beginning May 30 1999, and reaching its maximum in March-April of 2005 and January 2013. In the 2005 the explosive activity increased gradually, having the largest event on May 23, when a new dome was created. Hours later this dome was destroyed by a strong explosion, forming an ash column 5.6 km high with subsequent pyroclastic flows that reached a distance of 4.2 km flowing along the ravines of the South sector. On May 30 the most intense explosion in 1999 occurred, when the plume reached heights in excess of 4.4 km above the crater, and pyroclastic flows were created. On the same year in July two explosive events occurred of characteristics similar to those in May. These constant explosions caused continuous morphological changes in the summit, the most significant being the collapse of the North and South walls of the crater, in the first week of June of 2005, and the creation of a new crater in July. In 2006 the most significant explosive activity took place during April, May and July, when the eruptive columns reached heights of more than 1500 meters above the crater, occasionally forming small pyroclastic flows. In May of 2007 morphological changes were observed in the summit. Among them a crater explosion on the East side, a dome was formed on the West side, with 20 m in high and 50 m in diameter. Since the end of 2008 to December of 2012 the volcano remained calm, with a dome diameter of 220 m and height of 60 m, in January 2013 three explosions occurred, destroying the dome and throwing a volume of 1.5 million cubic meters. The eruptive column reached a height of 3000 above the crater. It reported light ashfall to the NE to 100 km away from the volcano. The explosive events continue to date, but they have diminished in size and intensity. This activity was similar to the one observed in 1902-1903 and reported by Severo Diaz and J.M. Arreola (1906), but without reaching the maximum levels of activity reported for 1903, where it had levels of three to five maximum explosive events per day. The photographs and the digital mapping have provided detailed information to quantify the dynamic evolution of the volcanic structures that developed on the summit of the volcano in the course of the last for years. The cartographic and database information obtained will be the basis for updating the Operational Plan of the Colima Volcano by the State Civil & Fire Protection Unit of Jalisco, Mexico, and the urban development plans of surrounding municipalities, in order to reduce their vulnerability to the hazards of the volcanic activity.

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

    Myers, Thomas Winfield; Brown, Kathryn Elizabeth; Chavez, David E.

    Here, the synthesis and characterization of new 1,2,4-triazolyl and 4-nitro-pyrazolyl substituted tetrazine ligands has been achieved. The strongly electron deficient 1,2,4-triazolyl substituted ligands did not coordinate Fe(II) metal centers, while the mildly electron deficient 4-nitro-pyrazolyl substituted ligands did coordinate Fe(II) metal centers in a 2:1 ratio of ligand to metal. The thermal stability and mechanical sensitivity characteristics of the complexes are similar to the conventional explosive pentaerythritol tetranitrate. The complexes had strong absorption in the visible region of the spectrum that extended into the near-infrared. In spite of having improved oxygen balances, increased mechanical sensitivity, and similar absorption of NIRmore » light to recently reported Fe(II) tetrazine complexes, these newly synthesized explosives were more difficult to initiate with Nd:YAG pulsed laser light. More specifically, the complexes required lower densities (0.9 g/cm 3) to initiate at the same threshold utilized to initiate previous materials at higher densities (1.05 g/cm 3).« less

  7. Shock synthesized and static sintered boron nitride cutting tool

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Araki, M.; Kuroyama, Y.

    1986-05-01

    Shock synthesis of wBN (wurtzite phase boron nitride) on an industrial scale was achieved by Nippon Oil & Fats and Showa Denko in 1971. It seemed that the resultant wBN powder might display excellent qualities as a cutting tool material when it was sintered under very high static pressure and temperature because of its polycrystalline nature. Attempts to produce a wBN cutting tool material were commenced by the Tokyo Institute of Technology and Nippon Oil & Fats in 1976 and commercially available wBN cutting tools were first sold in 1980. Meanwhile, a new type of explosion chamber designed to eliminate explosion sound and earth vibration problems, novel high pressure vessels and other peripheral apparatuses have been developed. Now, WURZIN (trademark for the wBN cutting tool) is used in many aspects of the steel cutting field because it is durable when cutting various steels from mild steels to superalloys under high speed, interrupt and precision cutting conditions.

  8. Safety considerations of lithium-thionyl chloride cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Subbarao, Surampudi; Halpert, Gerald; Stein, Irving

    1986-06-01

    The use of spirally wound lithium-thionyl chloride (Li-SOCl2) cells is currently limited because of their hazardous behavior. Safety hazards have ranged from mild venting of toxic materials to violent explosions and fires. These incidents may be related to both user- and manufacturer-induced causes. Many explanations have been offered to explain the unsafe behavior of the cells under operating and abuse conditions. Explanations fall into two categories: (1) thermal mechanisms, and (2) chemical mechanisms. However, it is quite difficult to separate the two. Both may be responsible for cell venting or explosion. Some safety problems encountered with these cells also may be due to design deficiencies and ineffective quality control during cell fabrication. A well-coordinated basic and applied research program is needed to develop safe Li-SOCl2 cells. Recommendations include: (1) learnig more about Li-SOL2 cell chemistry; (2) modeling cell and battery behavior; (3) optimizing cell design for safety and performance, (4) implementing quality control procedures; and (5) educating users.

  9. Safety considerations of lithium-thionyl chloride cells

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Subbarao, Surampudi; Halpert, Gerald; Stein, Irving

    1986-01-01

    The use of spirally wound lithium-thionyl chloride (Li-SOCl2) cells is currently limited because of their hazardous behavior. Safety hazards have ranged from mild venting of toxic materials to violent explosions and fires. These incidents may be related to both user- and manufacturer-induced causes. Many explanations have been offered to explain the unsafe behavior of the cells under operating and abuse conditions. Explanations fall into two categories: (1) thermal mechanisms, and (2) chemical mechanisms. However, it is quite difficult to separate the two. Both may be responsible for cell venting or explosion. Some safety problems encountered with these cells also may be due to design deficiencies and ineffective quality control during cell fabrication. A well-coordinated basic and applied research program is needed to develop safe Li-SOCl2 cells. Recommendations include: (1) learnig more about Li-SOL2 cell chemistry; (2) modeling cell and battery behavior; (3) optimizing cell design for safety and performance, (4) implementing quality control procedures; and (5) educating users.

  10. A novel steam explosion sterilization improving solid-state fermentation performance.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Zhi-Min; Wang, Lan; Chen, Hong-Zhang

    2015-09-01

    Traditional sterilization of solid medium (SM) requires lengthy time, degrades nutrients, and even sterilizes inadequately compared with that of liquid medium due to its low thermal conductivity. A novel sterilization strategy, high-temperature and short-time steam explosion (SE), was exploited for SM sterilization in this study. Results showed that SE conditions for complete sterilization were 172 °C for 2 min and 128 °C for 5 min. Glucose and xylose contents in medium after SE sterilization increased by 157% and 93% respectively compared with those after conventional sterilization (121 °C, 20 min) while fermentation inhibitors were not detected. FTIR spectra revealed that the mild SE conditions helped to release monosaccharides from the polysaccharides. Bacillus subtilis fermentation productivity on medium after SE sterilization was 3.83 times of that after conventional sterilization. Therefore, SE shortened sterilization time and improved SM nutrition, which facilitated fermentability of SM and should promote economy of solid-state fermentation. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  11. Unusual Volcanic Products From the 2008 Eruption at Volcan Llaima, Chile

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sweeney, D. C.; Hughes, M.; Calder, E. S.; Cortes, J.; Valentine, G.; Whelley, P.; Lara, L.

    2009-05-01

    Volcan Llaima, a snow-covered basaltic andesite stratocone in southern Chile (38 41' S, 71 44' W, 3179 m a.s.l.), erupted on 1 January 2008 with a fire fountain display lasting 14 hours. Elevated activity continues to date with mild to moderate strombolian activity occurring from two nested scoria cones in the summit crater and with occasional lava flows from crater overflow. The eruption displayed contrasting styles of activity emanating from different parts of the edifice that may provide some unique insight into the upper level plumbing system. Furthermore, the activity has provided an excellent chance to study the transition of a normally passive degassing system into a violent eruptive cycle. A field study of the eruptive products from this eruption was completed in January 2009, where sampling was carried out from the tephra fall, lava flows, lahar deposits and even small pyroclastic flow deposits. The scoria samples collected suggest a mixture of two magmas involved in the initial violent, fire fountaining activity from the summit. Additionally, they exhibit a variety of unusual textures, including rapidly-quenched, dense lava 'balls' - generated at the front of the lava flows traveling through ice, as well as cauliflower-textured tephra from explosive eruptions though ice. This presentation comprises our observations and preliminary interpretations concerning the processes that occurred during this unique eruption.

  12. Hydrothermal processes above the Yellowstone magma chamber: Large hydrothermal systems and large hydrothermal explosions

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Morgan, L.A.; Shanks, W.C. Pat; Pierce, K.L.

    2009-01-01

    Hydrothermal explosions are violent and dramatic events resulting in the rapid ejection of boiling water, steam, mud, and rock fragments from source craters that range from a few meters up to more than 2 km in diameter; associated breccia can be emplaced as much as 3 to 4 km from the largest craters. Hydrothermal explosions occur where shallow interconnected reservoirs of steam- and liquid-saturated fluids with temperatures at or near the boiling curve underlie thermal fields. Sudden reduction in confi ning pressure causes fluids to fl ash to steam, resulting in signifi cant expansion, rock fragmentation, and debris ejection. In Yellowstone, hydrothermal explosions are a potentially signifi cant hazard for visitors and facilities and can damage or even destroy thermal features. The breccia deposits and associated craters formed from hydrothermal explosions are mapped as mostly Holocene (the Mary Bay deposit is older) units throughout Yellowstone National Park (YNP) and are spatially related to within the 0.64-Ma Yellowstone caldera and along the active Norris-Mammoth tectonic corridor. In Yellowstone, at least 20 large (>100 m in diameter) hydrothermal explosion craters have been identifi ed; the scale of the individual associated events dwarfs similar features in geothermal areas elsewhere in the world. Large hydrothermal explosions in Yellowstone have occurred over the past 16 ka averaging ??1 every 700 yr; similar events are likely in the future. Our studies of large hydrothermal explosion events indicate: (1) none are directly associated with eruptive volcanic or shallow intrusive events; (2) several historical explosions have been triggered by seismic events; (3) lithic clasts and comingled matrix material that form hydrothermal explosion deposits are extensively altered, indicating that explosions occur in areas subjected to intense hydrothermal processes; (4) many lithic clasts contained in explosion breccia deposits preserve evidence of repeated fracturing and vein-fi lling; and (5) areal dimensions of many large hydrothermal explosion craters in Yellowstone are similar to those of its active geyser basins and thermal areas. For Yellowstone, our knowledge of hydrothermal craters and ejecta is generally limited to after the Yellowstone Plateau emerged from beneath a late Pleistocene icecap that was roughly a kilometer thick. Large hydrothermal explosions may have occurred earlier as indicated by multiple episodes of cementation and brecciation commonly observed in hydrothermal ejecta clasts. Critical components for large, explosive hydrothermal systems include a watersaturated system at or near boiling temperatures and an interconnected system of well-developed joints and fractures along which hydrothermal fluids flow. Active deformation of the Yellowstone caldera, active faulting and moderate local seismicity, high heat flow, rapid changes in climate, and regional stresses are factors that have strong infl uences on the type of hydrothermal system developed. Ascending hydrothermal fluids flow along fractures that have developed in response to active caldera deformation and along edges of low-permeability rhyolitic lava flows. Alteration of the area affected, self-sealing leading to development of a caprock for the hydrothermal system, and dissolution of silica-rich rocks are additional factors that may constrain the distribution and development of hydrothermal fields. A partial lowpermeability layer that acts as a cap to the hydrothermal system may produce some over-pressurization, thought to be small in most systems. Any abrupt drop in pressure initiates steam fl ashing and is rapidly transmitted through interconnected fractures that result in a series of multiple large-scale explosions contributing to the excavation of a larger explosion crater. Similarities between the size and dimensions of large hydrothermal explosion craters and thermal fields in Yellowstone may indicate that catastrophic events which result in l

  13. Munitions having an insensitive detonator system for initiating large failure diameter explosives

    DOEpatents

    Perry, III, William Leroy

    2015-08-04

    A munition according to a preferred embodiment can include a detonator system having a detonator that is selectively coupled to a microwave source that functions to selectively prime, activate, initiate, and/or sensitize an insensitive explosive material for detonation. The preferred detonator can include an explosive cavity having a barrier within which an insensitive explosive material is disposed and a waveguide coupled to the explosive cavity. The preferred system can further include a microwave source coupled to the waveguide such that microwaves enter the explosive cavity and impinge on the insensitive explosive material to sensitize the explosive material for detonation. In use the preferred embodiments permit the deployment and use of munitions that are maintained in an insensitive state until the actual time of use, thereby substantially preventing unauthorized or unintended detonation thereof.

  14. 32 CFR 174.16 - Real property containing explosive or chemical agent hazards.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... chemical agent hazards from past DoD military munitions-related or chemical warfare-related activities... 32 National Defense 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Real property containing explosive or chemical... REALIGNMENT Environmental Matters § 174.16 Real property containing explosive or chemical agent hazards. The...

  15. 75 FR 5345 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comments Requested

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-02-02

    ... of information collection under review: Statement of Process-Marking of Plastic Explosives for the... Process-Marking of Plastic Explosives for the Purpose of Detection. (3) Agency form number, if any, and... Public Law 104- 132. This information will be used to ensure that plastic explosives contain a detection...

  16. 32 CFR 174.16 - Real property containing explosive or chemical agent hazards.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... chemical agent hazards from past DoD military munitions-related or chemical warfare-related activities... 32 National Defense 1 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Real property containing explosive or chemical... REALIGNMENT Environmental Matters § 174.16 Real property containing explosive or chemical agent hazards. The...

  17. 32 CFR 174.16 - Real property containing explosive or chemical agent hazards.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... chemical agent hazards from past DoD military munitions-related or chemical warfare-related activities... 32 National Defense 1 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Real property containing explosive or chemical... REALIGNMENT Environmental Matters § 174.16 Real property containing explosive or chemical agent hazards. The...

  18. 32 CFR 174.16 - Real property containing explosive or chemical agent hazards.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... chemical agent hazards from past DoD military munitions-related or chemical warfare-related activities... 32 National Defense 1 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Real property containing explosive or chemical... REALIGNMENT Environmental Matters § 174.16 Real property containing explosive or chemical agent hazards. The...

  19. 32 CFR 174.16 - Real property containing explosive or chemical agent hazards.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... chemical agent hazards from past DoD military munitions-related or chemical warfare-related activities... 32 National Defense 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Real property containing explosive or chemical... REALIGNMENT Environmental Matters § 174.16 Real property containing explosive or chemical agent hazards. The...

  20. Common biochemical defects linkage between post-traumatic stress disorders, mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) and penetrating TBI.

    PubMed

    Prasad, Kedar N; Bondy, Stephen C

    2015-03-02

    Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a complex mental disorder with psychological and emotional components, caused by exposure to single or repeated extreme traumatic events found in war, terrorist attacks, natural or man-caused disasters, and by violent personal assaults and accidents. Mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs when the brain is violently rocked back and forth within the skull following a blow to the head or neck as in contact sports, or when in close proximity to a blast pressure wave following detonation of explosives in the battlefield. Penetrating TBI occurs when an object penetrates the skull and damages the brain, and is caused by vehicle crashes, gunshot wound to the head, and exposure to solid fragments in the proximity of explosions, and other combat-related head injuries. Despite clinical studies and improved understanding of the mechanisms of cellular damage, prevention and treatment strategies for patients with PTSD and TBI remain unsatisfactory. To develop an improved plan for treating and impeding progression of PTSD and TBI, it is important to identify underlying biochemical changes that may play key role in the initiation and progression of these disorders. This review identifies three common biochemical events, namely oxidative stress, chronic inflammation and excitotoxicity that participate in the initiation and progression of these conditions. While these features are separately discussed, in many instances, they overlap. This review also addresses the goal of developing novel treatments and drug regimens, aimed at combating this triad of events common to, and underlying, injury to the brain. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  1. Seismic monitoring of effusive-explosive activity and large lava dome collapses during 2013-2015 at Volcán de Colima, Mexico

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Arámbula-Mendoza, Raúl; Reyes-Dávila, Gabriel; Vargas-Bracamontes Dulce, M.; González-Amezcua, Miguel; Navarro-Ochoa, Carlos; Martínez-Fierros, Alejandro; Ramírez-Vázquez, Ariel

    2018-02-01

    Volcán de Colima, the most active volcano in Mexico, started a new eruptive cycle in January 2013. Since this date, the volcano has presented effusive and explosive activity. The beginning of the cycle was marked by a moderate Vulcanian explosion which had hyperbolical behavior in its precursory seismicity, possibly related to a shallow rupture process. Then, during the whole eruptive stage, the effusive activity was accompanied by low to moderate explosions. The explosions had energies mainly of 106 joules and were located between 0 and 1600 m below the crater, whereas the locations of tremor sources were found to be deeper, reaching up to 3800 m beneath the crater. Very-long-period signals (VLPs) have been observed with Vulcanian explosions that produce pyroclastic flows. A few number of volcano-tectonic events (VTs) were recognized during the studied period (2013-2015), indicating that the volcano is an open system. This was particularly evidenced in July 2015, when a new batch of magma rose rapidly without large precursors, only an accelerated increase in the number of rockfalls and associated RSEM. This event generated two large lava dome collapses with several pulses of material and pyroclastic flows that travelled up to 10.3 km from the summit. The seismic monitoring of Volcán de Colima is currently the only tool in real-time employed to assess the state of the volcanic activity. It is thus necessary to integrate new seismic methods as well as other geophysical monitoring techniques able to detect precursory signals of an impending hazardous event.

  2. Mechanism of explosive eruptions of Kilauea Volcano, Hawaii

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Dvorak, J.J.

    1992-01-01

    A small explosive eruption of Kilauea Volcano, Hawaii, occurred in May 1924. The eruption was preceded by rapid draining of a lava lake and transfer of a large volume of magma from the summit reservoir to the east rift zone. This lowered the magma column, which reduced hydrostatic pressure beneath Halemaumau and allowed groundwater to flow rapidly into areas of hot rock, producing a phreatic eruption. A comparison with other events at Kilauea shows that the transfer of a large volume of magma out of the summit reservoir is not sufficient to produce a phreatic eruption. For example, the volume transferred at the beginning of explosive activity in May 1924 was less than the volumes transferred in March 1955 and January-February 1960, when no explosive activity occurred. Likewise, draining of a lava lake and deepening of the floor of Halemaumau, which occurred in May 1922 and August 1923, were not sufficient to produce explosive activity. A phreatic eruption of Kilauea requires both the transfer of a large volume of magma from the summit reservoir and the rapid removal of magma from near the surface, where the surrounding rocks have been heated to a sufficient temperature to produce steam explosions when suddenly contacted by groundwater. ?? 1992 Springer-Verlag.

  3. 77 FR 43366 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comments Requested: Voluntary...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-07-24

    ... DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives [OMB Number 1140-0092] Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comments Requested: Voluntary Magazine... Magazine Questionnaire for Agencies/Entities Who Store Explosives. (3) Agency form number, if any, and the...

  4. Electrical activity during the 2006 Mount St. Augustine volcanic eruptions

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Thomas, Ronald J.; Krehbiel, Paul R.; Rison, William; Edens, H. E.; Aulich, G. D.; McNutt, S.R.; Tytgat, Guy; Clark, E.

    2007-01-01

    By using a combination of radio frequency time-of-arrival and interferometer measurements, we observed a sequence of lightning and electrical activity during one of Mount St. Augustine's eruptions. The observations indicate that the electrical activity had two modes or phases. First, there was an explosive phase in which the ejecta from the explosion appeared to be highly charged upon exiting the volcano, resulting in numerous apparently disorganized discharges and some simple lightning. The net charge exiting the volcano appears to have been positive. The second phase, which followed the most energetic explosion, produced conventional-type discharges that occurred within plume. Although the plume cloud was undoubtedly charged as a result of the explosion itself, the fact that the lightning onset was delayed and continued after and well downwind of the eruption indicates that in situ charging of some kind was occurring, presumably similar in some respects to that which occurs in normal thunderstorms.

  5. Local infrasound observations of large ash explosions at Augustine Volcano, Alaska, during January 11–28, 2006

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Petersen, Tanja; De Angelis, Silvio; Tytgat, Guy; McNutt, Stephen R.

    2006-01-01

    We present and interpret acoustic waveforms associated with a sequence of large explosion events that occurred during the initial stages of the 2006 eruption of Augustine Volcano, Alaska. During January 11–28, 2006, 13 large explosion events created ash-rich plumes that reached up to 14 km a.s.l., and generated atmospheric pressure waves that were recorded on scale by a microphone located at a distance of 3.2 km from the active vent. The variety of recorded waveforms included sharp N-shaped waves with durations of a few seconds, impulsive signals followed by complex codas, and extended signals with emergent character and durations up to minutes. Peak amplitudes varied between 14 and 105 Pa; inferred acoustic energies ranged between 2×108 and 4×109 J. A simple N-shaped short-duration signal recorded on January 11, 2006 was associated with the vent-opening blast that marked the beginning of the explosive eruption sequence. During the following days, waveforms with impulsive onsets and extended codas accompanied the eruptive activity, which was characterized by explosion events that generated large ash clouds and pyroclastic flows along the flanks of the volcano. Continuous acoustic waveforms that lacked a clear onset were more common during this period. On January 28, 2006, the occurrence of four large explosion events marked the end of this explosive eruption phase at Augustine Volcano. After a transitional period of about two days, characterized by many small discrete bursts, the eruption changed into a stage of more sustained and less explosive activity accompanied by the renewed growth of a summit lava dome.

  6. 30 CFR 817.66 - Use of explosives: Blasting signs, warnings, and access control.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 30 Mineral Resources 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Use of explosives: Blasting signs, warnings... STANDARDS-UNDERGROUND MINING ACTIVITIES § 817.66 Use of explosives: Blasting signs, warnings, and access control. (a) Blasting signs. Blasting signs shall meet the specifications of § 817.11. The operator shall...

  7. 30 CFR 816.66 - Use of explosives: Blasting signs, warnings, and access control.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... 30 Mineral Resources 3 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Use of explosives: Blasting signs, warnings... STANDARDS-SURFACE MINING ACTIVITIES § 816.66 Use of explosives: Blasting signs, warnings, and access control. (a) Blasting signs. Blasting signs shall meet the specifications of § 816.11. The operator shall— (1...

  8. 30 CFR 817.66 - Use of explosives: Blasting signs, warnings, and access control.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... 30 Mineral Resources 3 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Use of explosives: Blasting signs, warnings... STANDARDS-UNDERGROUND MINING ACTIVITIES § 817.66 Use of explosives: Blasting signs, warnings, and access control. (a) Blasting signs. Blasting signs shall meet the specifications of § 817.11. The operator shall...

  9. 30 CFR 816.66 - Use of explosives: Blasting signs, warnings, and access control.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... 30 Mineral Resources 3 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Use of explosives: Blasting signs, warnings... STANDARDS-SURFACE MINING ACTIVITIES § 816.66 Use of explosives: Blasting signs, warnings, and access control. (a) Blasting signs. Blasting signs shall meet the specifications of § 816.11. The operator shall— (1...

  10. 30 CFR 816.66 - Use of explosives: Blasting signs, warnings, and access control.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... 30 Mineral Resources 3 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Use of explosives: Blasting signs, warnings... STANDARDS-SURFACE MINING ACTIVITIES § 816.66 Use of explosives: Blasting signs, warnings, and access control. (a) Blasting signs. Blasting signs shall meet the specifications of § 816.11. The operator shall— (1...

  11. 30 CFR 817.66 - Use of explosives: Blasting signs, warnings, and access control.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... 30 Mineral Resources 3 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Use of explosives: Blasting signs, warnings... STANDARDS-UNDERGROUND MINING ACTIVITIES § 817.66 Use of explosives: Blasting signs, warnings, and access control. (a) Blasting signs. Blasting signs shall meet the specifications of § 817.11. The operator shall...

  12. 30 CFR 817.66 - Use of explosives: Blasting signs, warnings, and access control.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... 30 Mineral Resources 3 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Use of explosives: Blasting signs, warnings... STANDARDS-UNDERGROUND MINING ACTIVITIES § 817.66 Use of explosives: Blasting signs, warnings, and access control. (a) Blasting signs. Blasting signs shall meet the specifications of § 817.11. The operator shall...

  13. 30 CFR 817.66 - Use of explosives: Blasting signs, warnings, and access control.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... 30 Mineral Resources 3 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Use of explosives: Blasting signs, warnings... STANDARDS-UNDERGROUND MINING ACTIVITIES § 817.66 Use of explosives: Blasting signs, warnings, and access control. (a) Blasting signs. Blasting signs shall meet the specifications of § 817.11. The operator shall...

  14. 30 CFR 816.66 - Use of explosives: Blasting signs, warnings, and access control.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 30 Mineral Resources 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Use of explosives: Blasting signs, warnings... STANDARDS-SURFACE MINING ACTIVITIES § 816.66 Use of explosives: Blasting signs, warnings, and access control. (a) Blasting signs. Blasting signs shall meet the specifications of § 816.11. The operator shall— (1...

  15. 30 CFR 816.66 - Use of explosives: Blasting signs, warnings, and access control.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... 30 Mineral Resources 3 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Use of explosives: Blasting signs, warnings... STANDARDS-SURFACE MINING ACTIVITIES § 816.66 Use of explosives: Blasting signs, warnings, and access control. (a) Blasting signs. Blasting signs shall meet the specifications of § 816.11. The operator shall— (1...

  16. 78 FR 26655 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comments Requested: Statement of...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-05-07

    ...-Marking of Plastic Explosives for the Purpose of Detection ACTION: 30-Day notice. The Department of...) Title of the Form/Collection: Statement of Process-Marking of Plastic Explosives for the Purpose of... used to ensure that plastic explosives contain a detection agent as required by law. (5) An estimate of...

  17. Common explosives (TNT, RDX, HMX) and their fate in the environment: Emphasizing bioremediation.

    PubMed

    Chatterjee, Soumya; Deb, Utsab; Datta, Sibnarayan; Walther, Clemens; Gupta, Dharmendra K

    2017-10-01

    Explosive materials are energetic substances, when released into the environment, contaminate by posing toxic hazards to environment and biota. Throughout the world, soils are contaminated by such contaminants either due to manufacturing operations, military activities, conflicts of different levels, open burning/open detonation (OB/OD), dumping of munitions etc. Among different forms of chemical explosives, 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT), hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX), and octahydro-1,3,5,7-tetranitro- 1,3,5,7-tetrazocine (HMX) are most common. These explosives are highly toxic as USEPA has recommended restrictions for lifetime contact through drinking water. Although, there are several utilitarian aspects in anthropogenic activities, however, effective remediation of explosives is very important. This review article emphasizes the details of appropriate practices to ameliorate the contamination. Critical evaluation has also been made to encompass the recent knowledge and advancement about bioremediation and phytoremediation of explosives (especially TNT, RDX and HMX) along with the molecular mechanisms of biodegradation. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  18. Differential SPECT activation patterns associated with PASAT performance may indicate frontocerebellar functional dissociation in chronic mild traumatic brain injury.

    PubMed

    Hattori, Naoya; Swan, Megan; Stobbe, Gary A; Uomoto, Jay M; Minoshima, Satoshi; Djang, David; Krishnananthan, Ruben; Lewis, David H

    2009-07-01

    Patients with mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) often complain of cognitive fatigue during the chronic recovery phase. The Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (PASAT) is a complex psychologic measure that may demonstrate subtle deficiencies in higher cognitive functions. The purpose of this study was to investigate the brain activation of regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) with PASAT in patients with mild TBI to explore mechanisms for the cognitive fatigue. Two groups consisting of 15 patients with mild TBI and 15 healthy control subjects underwent (99m)Tc-ethylene cysteine dimer SPECT at rest and during PASAT on a separate day. Cortical rCBF was extracted using a 3-dimensional stereotactic surface projection and statistically analyzed to identify areas of activation, which were compared with PASAT performance scores. Image analysis demonstrated a difference in the pattern of activation between patients with mild TBI and healthy control subjects. Healthy control subjects activated the superior temporal cortex (Brodmann area [BA] 22) bilaterally, the precentral gyrus (BA 9) on the left, and the precentral gyrus (BA 6) and cerebellum bilaterally. Patients with mild TBI demonstrated a larger area of supratentorial activation (BAs 9, 10, 13, and 46) but a smaller area of activation in the cerebellum, indicating frontocerebellar dissociation. Patients with mild TBI and cognitive fatigue demonstrated a different pattern of activation during PASAT. Frontocerebellar dissociation may explain cognitive impairment and cognitive fatigue in the chronic recovery phase of mild traumatic brain injury.

  19. Characteristics and management of the 2006-2008 volcanic crisis at the Ubinas volcano (Peru)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rivera, Marco; Thouret, Jean-Claude; Mariño, Jersy; Berolatti, Rossemary; Fuentes, José

    2010-12-01

    Ubinas volcano is located 75 km East of Arequipa and ca. 5000 people are living within 12 km from the summit. This composite cone is considered the most active volcano in southern Peru owing to its 24 low to moderate magnitude (VEI 1-3) eruptions in the past 500 years. The onset of the most recent eruptive episode occurred on 27 March 2006, following 8 months of heightened fumarolic activity. Vulcanian explosions occurred between 14 April 2006 and September 2007, at a time ejecting blocks up to 40 cm in diameter to distances of 2 km. Ash columns commonly rose to 3.5 km above the caldera rim and dispersed fine ash and aerosols to distances of 80 km between April 2006 and April 2007. Until April 2007, the total volume of ash was estimated at 0.004 km 3, suggesting that the volume of fresh magma was small. Ash fallout has affected residents, livestock, water supplies, and crop cultivation within an area of ca. 100 km 2 around the volcano. Continuous degassing and intermittent mild vulcanian explosions lasted until the end of 2008. Shortly after the initial explosions on mid April 2006 that spread ash fallout within 7 km of the volcano, an integrated Scientific Committee including three Peruvian institutes affiliated to the Regional Committee of Civil Defense for Moquegua, aided by members of the international cooperation, worked together to: i) elaborate and publish volcanic hazard maps; ii) inform and educate the population; and iii) advise regional authorities in regard to the management of the volcanic crisis and the preparation of contingency plans. Although the 2006-2008 volcanic crisis has been moderate, its management has been a difficult task even though less than 5000 people now live around the Ubinas volcano. However, the successful management has provided experience and skills to the scientific community. This volcanic crisis was not the first one that Peru has experienced but the 2006-2008 experience is the first long-lasting crisis that the Peruvian civil authorities have had to cope with, including attempts to utilize a new alert-level scheme and communications system, and the successful evacuation of 1150 people. Lessons learned can be applied to future volcanic crises in southern Peru, particularly in the case of reawakening of El Misti volcano nearby Arequipa.

  20. 77 FR 5845 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comments Requested: Report of...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-02-06

    ...] Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comments Requested: Report of Theft or... currently approved collection. (2) Title of the Form/Collection: Report of Theft or Loss of Explosives. (3... for-profit. Other: None. Need for Collection Losses or theft of explosives must, by statute be...

  1. 78 FR 57415 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comments Requested: Request for...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-09-18

    ... DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives [OMB Number 1140-NEW] Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comments Requested: Request for ATF Background Investigation Information ACTION: 60-Day Notice. The Department of Justice (DOJ), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF),...

  2. 78 FR 77167 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comments Requested: Supplemental...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-12-20

    ... DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives [OMB Number 1140-0097] Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comments Requested: Supplemental Information on Water Quality Considerations ACTION: 60-day notice. The Department of Justice (DOJ), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives ...

  3. 78 FR 2441 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comments Requested, Application...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-01-11

    ... DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives [OMB Number 1140-0018] Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comments Requested, Application for Federal Firearms License ACTION: 30-Day notice. The Department of Justice (DOJ), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) will be...

  4. Long-term variations in explosion dynamics at Santiaguito volcano

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lamb, Oliver; De Angelis, Silvio; Lavallée, Yan; Lamur, Anthony; Hornby, Adrian; Von Aulock, Felix; Kendrick, Jackie; Chigna, Gustavo; Rietbrock, Andreas

    2017-04-01

    Here we present two years of seismic and infrasound observations of ash-and-gas explosions recorded during an ongoing multi-disciplinary experiment at the Santiaguito lava dome complex, Guatemala. Due to the occurrence of regular explosive activity since the early 1970's, the volcano is an ideal laboratory for the study of the eruption dynamics of long-lived silicic eruptions. The instrument network, deployed between 0.5 and 7 km from the active vent, includes 5 broadband and 6 short-period seismometers, as well as 5 infrasound sensors. Seismo-acoustic data are complemented by thermal infrared imagery, visual observations from an unmanned aerial vehicle, and geochemical measurements of eruptive products. In mid-2015, a major shift in activity took place at Santiaguito. Vulcanian explosions became more energetic and less regular, and were often accompanied by pyroclastic density currents. Important morphological changes were observed at the active El Caliente dome, as the lava-filled crater was excavated by a sequence of vigorous explosions to a depth of at least 150 m. Variations in the relative arrival times of seismic and infrasound signals suggest a significant deepening of the explosion initiation point inside the conduit. This shift in behaviour likely represents a change in the eruptive mechanism in the upper conduit beneath El Caliente, possibly triggered by disequilibrium at a greater depth in the volcanic system. Our observations suggest a reactivation of the deep magmatic system at Santiaguito, with little precursory activity. The results of this multi-parameteric monitoring experiment have specific implications for hazard assessment at Santiaguito, and contributes to understanding the processes that control changes in eruptive regime at lava dome volcanoes.

  5. A bestiary of ordinary vent activities at Stromboli (and what it tells us about vent conditions)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gaudin, Damien; Taddeucci, Jacopo; Scarlato, Piergiorgio

    2015-04-01

    Normal active degassing at Stromboli (Aeolian Islands, Italy) is traditionally divided in two classes. Puffing correspond to the frequent (~1 Hz) release of small gas pockets (0.5 - 1 m of diameter) at low exit velocities (5 - 15 m/s). Whereas, Strombolian explosions occur at a frequency of 1 - 10 per hour, and are characterized the ejection of bombs and/or ash at high velocities (50 - 400 m/s). In order to get a broader overview of two types of degassing, we used a thermal high speed FLIR SC655 camera to monitor the temperature anomalies generated by the expelled gas, ash, and/or bombs. The enhanced time and spatial resolutions of the camera (200 frames per second, 15 cm wide pixels) enables to use numerical algorithms to distinguish and characterize individual ejection events. In particular, for each explosion and puff, we compute the temperature, the volume, the exit point and the rise velocities of the expelled material. These values, as well as the frequency of the release events, are used to portray a total of 12 vent activities, observed during three field campaigns in 2012, 2013 and 2014. Sustained puffing was visible on 7 cases, with an intensity ranging on at least two orders of magnitude. Although the released gas volume is sometimes highly variable, on some cases, constant sized puffs allows to define a typical discharge frequency ranging between 0.4 and 1.5 Hz. Regular Strombolian explosions, with various duration, intensity and ash contents, are reported in 6 cases, 2 of them simultaneously presenting a puffing activity. In some cases, we noticed modifications of the vent activity just before the explosions. These precursors, usually lasting about 1 second but occasionally reaching 10 seconds, can be sorted into 1) increase of the puffing activity ; 2) emission of gas plumes ; 3) inflation of the visible vent surface. Finally, one vent activity was hybrid between puffing and Strombolian explosions, with frequent explosions (1 Hz) ejecting numerous pyroclasts at an intermediate velocity (15 - 30 m/s). This latter case suggests that puffing and normal Strombolian explosions are driven by a similar mechanism, modulated by different vent conditions and/or gas supply. Crucial insights about explosion mechanism and vents conditions can be derived from the interpretation of explosion precursors. For example, the amplitude surface inflation is significantly smaller that what would be expected for the decompression of a slug in a single-viscosity conduit, suggesting the existence of a high viscosity plug limiting gas expansion close to the surface. In addition, the release of low pressurized gas or the increase of puffing activity before the Strombolian explosions suppose the existence of a shallow bubble reservoir. We hypothesize that this layer could originate at the base of the high-viscosity plug, where the bubble rise velocity locally decreases. The stress changes preceding the slug rise might decrease the plug viscosity through the generation of fractures, allowing the release of these precursors.

  6. Prediction of ground motion and dynamic stress change in Baekdusan (Changbaishan) volcano caused by a North Korean nuclear explosion.

    PubMed

    Hong, Tae-Kyung; Choi, Eunseo; Park, Seongjun; Shin, Jin Soo

    2016-02-17

    Strong ground motions induce large dynamic stress changes that may disturb the magma chamber of a volcano, thus accelerating the volcanic activity. An underground nuclear explosion test near an active volcano constitutes a direct treat to the volcano. This study examined the dynamic stress changes of the magma chamber of Baekdusan (Changbaishan) that can be induced by hypothetical North Korean nuclear explosions. Seismic waveforms for hypothetical underground nuclear explosions at North Korean test site were calculated by using an empirical Green's function approach based on a source-spectral model of a nuclear explosion; such a technique is efficient for regions containing poorly constrained velocity structures. The peak ground motions around the volcano were estimated from empirical strong-motion attenuation curves. A hypothetical M7.0 North Korean underground nuclear explosion may produce peak ground accelerations of 0.1684 m/s(2) in the horizontal direction and 0.0917 m/s(2) in the vertical direction around the volcano, inducing peak dynamic stress change of 67 kPa on the volcano surface and ~120 kPa in the spherical magma chamber. North Korean underground nuclear explosions with magnitudes of 5.0-7.6 may induce overpressure in the magma chamber of several tens to hundreds of kilopascals.

  7. Minutes of the Explosives Safety Seminar (20th) Held at OMNI international Hotel, Norfolk, Virginia on 24-26 August 1982. Volume I

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1982-08-01

    between one that provides for total protection of life and property and one that per- mits operators to conduct activities in a " laisse - faire " manner...Workers. AD-PO00 456 General Risk Analysis Methodological Implications to Explosives Risk Management Systems. AD-PO0O 457 Risk Analysis for Explosives...THE EFFECTS OF THE HEALTH AND SAFETY AT WORK ACT, 1974, ON MILITARY EXPLOSIVES SAFETY MANAGEMENT IN THE UNITED KINGDOM ........................ 7 Air

  8. 30 CFR 817.62 - Use of explosives: Preblasting survey.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... ACTIVITIES § 817.62 Use of explosives: Preblasting survey. (a) At least 30 days before initiation of blasting... 30 Mineral Resources 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Use of explosives: Preblasting survey. 817.62... located within 1/2 mile of the permit area how to request a preblasting survey. (b) A resident or owner of...

  9. 30 CFR 816.62 - Use of explosives: Preblasting survey.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... ACTIVITIES § 816.62 Use of explosives: Preblasting survey. (a) At least 30 days before initiation of blasting... 30 Mineral Resources 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Use of explosives: Preblasting survey. 816.62... located within 1/2 mile of the permit area how to request a preblasting survey. (b) A resident or owner of...

  10. Steam explosions, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions -- what's in Yellowstone's future?

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Lowenstern, Jacob B.; Christiansen, Robert L.; Smith, Robert B.; Morgan, Lisa A.; Heasler, Henry

    2005-01-01

    Yellowstone, one of the world?s largest active volcanic systems, has produced several giant volcanic eruptions in the past few million years, as well as many smaller eruptions and steam explosions. Although no eruptions of lava or volcanic ash have occurred for many thousands of years, future eruptions are likely. In the next few hundred years, hazards will most probably be limited to ongoing geyser and hot-spring activity, occasional steam explosions, and moderate to large earthquakes. To better understand Yellowstone?s volcano and earthquake hazards and to help protect the public, the U.S. Geological Survey, the University of Utah, and Yellowstone National Park formed the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, which continuously monitors activity in the region.

  11. Spattering activity at Halemáumáu in 2015 and the transition between Hawaiian and Strombolian eruptions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mintz, B. G.; Houghton, B. F.; Orr, T. R.; Taddeucci, J.; Gaudin, D.; Kueppers, U.; Carey, R.; Scarlato, P.; Del Bello, E.

    2016-12-01

    Explosive activity in 2015 at the free surface of the Halemáumáu lava lake at Kīlauea showed features of both Hawaiian fountaining and Strombolian explosivity. Like low Hawaiian fountains, spattering events often persisted for tens of minutes or hours. However, like Strombolian explosions, the activity consisted of a series of bursting of discrete, meter-sized gas bubbles. Each bubble burst threw fluidal bombs, with meter to decimeter diameters, to elevations of meters to a few tens of meters above the collapsing bubble remnant. Initial velocities of the pyroclasts were lower than either Strombolian explosions or high Hawaiian fountains, typically only 7 to 14 meters/second on average.Although some events were triggered by short-lived rock falls that penetrated the crust of the lava lake, the resulting outgassing activity would become self-sustaining and persistent. Activity was at times, confined to a single point source, to several point sources, or along arcs extending tens of meters parallel to the lake margin.This activity represents another type of behavior exhibited by basaltic volcanoes and provides greater insight into the spectrum between Hawaiian fountaining and Strombolian explosivity. Consequently, this activity is highly instructive in terms of: (a) the diversity of degassing/outgassing possible at basaltic volcanoes and (b) the controls on mechanically coupled versus decoupled behavior of the exsolved bubbles. The 2015 Halemáumáu activity was often continuous over similar timescales to Hawaiian fountaining but was markedly less steady than high fountains. A significant portion of the gas phase was released as discrete bubble bursts, but with frequencies two or three orders of magnitude higher than at Stromboli, which permitted sustained but not steady events.

  12. Statistical Approach to Detection of Strombolian Activity in Satellite Data

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Worden, A. K.; Dehn, J.; Ripepe, M.; Harris, A. J.

    2010-12-01

    Strombolian activity across the remote volcanoes of the Aleutian Islands and Kamchatka Peninsula cannot be monitored easily or safely by direct methods. Satellite remote sensing offers a useful means to routinely monitor these volcanoes. To model the expected time-dependent thermal signal recorded by the satellite-sensor, we carried out laboratory-based experiments and collected field data for cooling spatter and bomb fields. Preliminary laboratory work focused on finding an acceptable lava analog, as well as scaled pressures and vent sizes. Honey emitted from 0.5-3.8 cm diameter vents by explosions with pressures of around 0.05 MPa seemed to work the best. Scaled explosions were recorded with a FLIR thermal camera and a digital video camera. Explosions at Stromboli Volcano in Italy were also recorded with the same thermal camera over a period of days in May and June, 2010, and were compared to the scaled explosions. In both the modeled and actual explosions, vent diameter directly dictates the type of explosion and deposit distribution ranging from intense jetting from small vents to diffuse spattering from larger vents. The style of emission controls the area of, and distribution of bombs within, the resulting bomb field. This, in turn, influences the cooling rate of the bomb field. The cooling rate of spatter and bomb fields (most likely the source of thermal anomalies in satellite data) for both modeled and actual explosions compared well, and is on the order of seconds to minutes. For a single explosion of average size, the thermal signal is detectable by satellite for a time period in terms of tens of seconds. Thus, in order to see a thermal signature related to a strombolian explosion, a satellite must pass over the volcano (with acceptable geometries) within about a minute of an explosion. A volcano with 70 explosions per day would produce roughly an hour of detectable thermal anomalies. With about a dozen possible NOAA and NASA satellite overpasses daily, dependant on weather and viewing geometry, an anomaly would be seen every couple of days and almost certainly once a week. By calibrating events observed by satellite with events recorded in infrasonic, seismic, and FLIR data a tool can be developed to gauge increasing or decreasing strombolian activity at remote volcanoes.

  13. Apparatus and methods for real-time detection of explosives devices

    DOEpatents

    Blackburn, Brandon W [Idaho Falls, ID; Hunt, Alan W [Pocatello, ID; Chichester, David L [Idaho Falls, ID

    2014-01-07

    The present disclosure relates, according to some embodiments, to apparatus, devices, systems, and/or methods for real-time detection of a concealed or camouflaged explosive device (e.g., EFPs and IEDs) from a safe stand-off distance. Apparatus, system and/or methods of the disclosure may also be operable to identify and/or spatially locate and/or detect an explosive device. An apparatus or system may comprise an x-ray generator that generates high-energy x-rays and/or electrons operable to contact and activate a metal comprised in an explosive device from a stand-off distance; and a detector operable to detect activation of the metal. Identifying an explosive device may comprise detecting characteristic radiation signatures emitted by metals specific to an EFP, an IED or a landmine. Apparatus and systems of the disclosure may be mounted on vehicles and methods of the disclosure may be performed while moving in the vehicle and from a safe stand-off distance.

  14. The use of explosives by the US Antarctic Program. Environmental report

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

    Ensminger, J.T.; Blasing, T.J.

    1995-06-01

    This report was prepared to assist principal investigators and others in complying with NEPA and the protocol on environmental protection to the Antarctic Treaty. Research activities and associated support operations in Antarctica sometimes require use of explosives. This report evaluates potential environmental impacts associated with such activities and possible methods for mitigating those impacts. The greatest single use of explosives, and the only type of blasting that will occur on the Polar Plateau (an exception is the rare use of explosives to cave in dangerous ice for safety reasons), is for seismic surveys. The charges for these are small-scale, aremore » placed in or on the snow or ice, are distributed linearly over long distances, and present no potential impacts to soil or geological substrata. Impacts from those would be less than minor or transitory. Wherever possible, blasting holes in sea ice will be replaced by drilling by auger or melting. Other uses of explosives, such as in geologic research and construction, are discussed.« less

  15. UNIFYING THE ZOO OF JET-DRIVEN STELLAR EXPLOSIONS

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

    Lazzati, Davide; Blackwell, Christopher H.; Morsony, Brian J.

    We present a set of numerical simulations of stellar explosions induced by relativistic jets emanating from a central engine sitting at the center of compact, dying stars. We explore a wide range of durations of the central engine activity, two candidate stellar progenitors, and two possible values of the total energy release. We find that even if the jets are narrowly collimated, their interaction with the star unbinds the stellar material, producing a stellar explosion. We also find that the outcome of the explosion can be very different depending on the duration of the engine activity. Only the longest-lasting enginesmore » result in successful gamma-ray bursts. Engines that power jets only for a short time result in relativistic supernova (SN) explosions, akin to observed engine-driven SNe such as SN2009bb. Engines with intermediate durations produce weak gamma-ray bursts, with properties similar to nearby bursts such as GRB 980425. Finally, we find that the engines with the shortest durations, if they exist in nature, produce stellar explosions that lack sizable amounts of relativistic ejecta and are therefore dynamically indistinguishable from ordinary core-collapse SNe.« less

  16. The Nuclear Barcode: a New Taggant for Identifying Explosives

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Seman, James; Johnson, Catherine; Castaño, Carlos

    2017-06-01

    Creating an effective taggant system for explosives is a challenging problem since the taggant used must be designed to endure the detonation process. A new taggant for use in explosives has been recently developed and named the `nuclear barcode'. The nuclear barcode tags explosives by adding low concentrations of eight different elements to the explosive, and then reads the tag from the post-blast residue using neutron activation analysis (NAA) to identify the elements and their concentrations. The nuclear barcode can be used to identify explosives after detonation by sampling the post-blast residue that is deposited due to incomplete reaction of the explosives. This method of tagging explosives creates an identifying taggant that survives detonation as NAA detects atomic nuclei as opposed to using any chemical or physical properties of the taggant that don't always survive the detonation process. Additional advantages this taggant method offers is ease of recovery of the taggant after detonation, and a total of 25.6 billion possible taggants as currently conceived, which enables the nuclear barcode to be used to tag individual batches of explosives. This paper describes the development of the nuclear barcode taggant system and its potential use in the explosives industry.

  17. Broadband measurements of the sources of explosions at Stromboli Volcano, Italy

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Chouet, B.; Saccorotti, G.; Dawson, P.; Martini, M.; Scarpa, R.; De Luca, G.; Milana, G.; Cattaneo, M.

    1999-01-01

    During September-October 1997, 21 three-component broadband seismometers were deployed on Stromboli Volcano at radial distances of 0.3-2.2 km from the active crater to investigate the source mechanisms of Strombolian explosions. In the 2-50 s band, the very-long period (VLP) signals associated with explosions are consistent with two stationary sources repeatedly activated in time. VLP particle motions are essentially linear and analyses of semblance and particle motions are consistent with a source centroid offset 300 m beneath and 300 m northwest of the active vents. Similar VLP waveforms are observed at all 21 stations, indicating that the seismograms are source-dominated. The VLP ground displacement response to each explosion may be qualitatively interpreted as: (1) pressurization of the conduit associated with the ascent of a slug of gas; (2) depressurization of the conduit in response to mass withdrawal during the eruption; and (3) repressurization of the conduit associated with the replenishment of the source with fluid. Copyright 1999 by the American Geophysical Union.

  18. Coupled High Speed Imaging and Seismo-Acoustic Recordings of Strombolian Explosions at Etna, July 2014: Implications for Source Processes and Signal Inversions.

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Taddeucci, J.; Del Bello, E.; Scarlato, P.; Ricci, T.; Andronico, D.; Kueppers, U.; Cannata, A.; Sesterhenn, J.; Spina, L.

    2015-12-01

    Seismic and acoustic surveillance is routinely performed at several persistent activity volcanoes worldwide. However, interpretation of the signals associated with explosive activity is still equivocal, due to both source variability and the intrinsically limited information carried by the waves. Comparison and cross-correlation of the geophysical quantities with other information in general and visual recording in particular is therefore actively sought. At Etna (Italy) in July 2014, short-lived Strombolian explosions ejected bomb- to lapilli-sized, molten pyroclasts at a remarkably repeatable time interval of about two seconds, offering a rare occasion to systematically investigate the seismic and acoustic fields radiated by this common volcanic source. We deployed FAMoUS (FAst, MUltiparametric Setup for the study of explosive activity) at 260 meters from the vents, recording more than 60 explosions in thermal and visible high-speed videos (50 to 500 frames per second) and broadband seismic and acoustic instruments (1 to 10000 Hz for the acoustic and from 0.01 to 30 Hz for the seismic). Analysis of this dataset highlights nonlinear relationships between the exit velocity and mass of ejecta and the amplitude and frequency of the acoustic signals. It also allows comparing different methods to estimate source depth, and to validate existing theory on the coupling of airwaves with ground motion.

  19. Transition from phreatic to phreatomagmatic explosive activity of Zhupanovsky volcano (Kamchatka) in 2013-2016 due to volcanic cone collapse

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gorbach, Natalia; Plechova, Anastasiya; Portnyagin, Maxim

    2017-04-01

    Zhupanovsky volcano, situated 70 km north from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky city, resumed its activity in October 2013 [3]. In 2014 and in the first half of 2015, episodic explosions with ash plumes rising up to 6-8 km above sea level occurred on Priemish cone - one of four cones on the Zhupanovsky volcanic edifice [1]. In July 2015 after a series of seismic and explosive events, the southern sector of the active cone collapsed. The landslide and lahar deposits resulted from the collapse formed a large field on the volcano slopes [2]. In November 2015 and January-March 2016, a series of powerful explosions took place sending ash up to 8-10 km above sea level. No pure magmatic, effusive or extrusive, activity has been observed on Zhupanovsky in 2013-2016. We have studied the composition, morphology and textural features of ash particles produced by the largest explosive events of Zhupanovsky in the period from October 2013 to March 2016. The main components of the ash were found to be hydrothermally altered particles and lithics, likely originated by the defragmentation of rocks composing the volcanic edifice. Juvenile glass fragments occur in very subordinate quantities. The maximum amount of glass particles (up to 7%) was found in the ash erupted in January-March 2016, after the cone collapse. We suggest that the phreatic to phreatomagmatic explosive activity of Zhupanovsky volcano in 2013-2016 was initially caused by the intrusion of a new magma batch under the volcano. The intrusion and associated degassing of magma led to heating, overpressure and instability in the hydrothermal system of the volcano, causing episodic, predominantly phreatic explosions. Decompression of the shallow magmatic and hydrothermal system of the volcano due to the cone collapse in July 2015 facilitated a larger involvement of the magmatic component in the eruption and more powerful explosions. [1] Girina O.A. et al., 2016 Geophysical Research Abstracts Vol. 18, EGU2016-2101, doi: 10.13140/RG.2.1.5179.4001.[2] Gorbach N.V. et al., 2015. Bulletin of Kamchatka Regional Association "Educational-scientific Center". Earth Sciences. 3/27:5-11. [3] Samoilenko S.B. et al., 2014. Bulletin of Kamchatka Regional Association "Educational-scientific Center". Earth Sciences. 1/23:21-26.

  20. Chronic Hypopituitarism Associated with Increased Postconcussive Symptoms Is Prevalent after Blast-Induced Mild Traumatic Brain Injury

    PubMed Central

    Undurti, Arundhati; Colasurdo, Elizabeth A.; Sikkema, Carl L.; Schultz, Jaclyn S.; Peskind, Elaine R.; Pagulayan, Kathleen F.; Wilkinson, Charles W.

    2018-01-01

    The most frequent injury sustained by US service members deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan is mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI), or concussion, by far most often caused by blast waves from improvised explosive devices or other explosive ordnance. TBI from all causes gives rise to chronic neuroendocrine disorders with an estimated prevalence of 25–50%. The current study expands upon our earlier finding that chronic pituitary gland dysfunction occurs with a similarly high frequency after blast-related concussions. We measured circulating hormone levels and accessed demographic and testing data from two groups of male veterans with hazardous duty experience in Iraq or Afghanistan. Veterans in the mTBI group had experienced one or more blast-related concussion. Members of the deployment control (DC) group encountered similar deployment conditions but had no history of blast-related mTBI. 12 of 39 (31%) of the mTBI participants and 3 of 20 (15%) veterans in the DC group screened positive for one or more neuroendocrine disorders. Positive screens for growth hormone deficiency occurred most often. Analysis of responses on self-report questionnaires revealed main effects of both mTBI and hypopituitarism on postconcussive and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. Symptoms associated with pituitary dysfunction overlap considerably with those of PTSD. They include cognitive deficiencies, mood and anxiety disorders, sleep problems, diminished quality of life, deleterious changes in metabolism and body composition, and increased cardiovascular mortality. When such symptoms are due to hypopituitarism, they may be alleviated by hormone replacement. These findings suggest consideration of routine post-deployment neuroendocrine screening of service members and veterans who have experienced blast-related mTBI and are reporting postconcussive symptoms. PMID:29515515

  1. 14 CFR 420.5 - Definitions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... activity. Net explosive weight (NEW) means the total weight, expressed in pounds, of explosive material or... azimuth and is positive in the downrange direction. The y-axis is positive to the left looking downrange...

  2. Prediction of ground motion and dynamic stress change in Baekdusan (Changbaishan) volcano caused by a North Korean nuclear explosion

    PubMed Central

    Hong, Tae-Kyung; Choi, Eunseo; Park, Seongjun; Shin, Jin Soo

    2016-01-01

    Strong ground motions induce large dynamic stress changes that may disturb the magma chamber of a volcano, thus accelerating the volcanic activity. An underground nuclear explosion test near an active volcano constitutes a direct treat to the volcano. This study examined the dynamic stress changes of the magma chamber of Baekdusan (Changbaishan) that can be induced by hypothetical North Korean nuclear explosions. Seismic waveforms for hypothetical underground nuclear explosions at North Korean test site were calculated by using an empirical Green’s function approach based on a source-spectral model of a nuclear explosion; such a technique is efficient for regions containing poorly constrained velocity structures. The peak ground motions around the volcano were estimated from empirical strong-motion attenuation curves. A hypothetical M7.0 North Korean underground nuclear explosion may produce peak ground accelerations of 0.1684 m/s2 in the horizontal direction and 0.0917 m/s2 in the vertical direction around the volcano, inducing peak dynamic stress change of 67 kPa on the volcano surface and ~120 kPa in the spherical magma chamber. North Korean underground nuclear explosions with magnitudes of 5.0–7.6 may induce overpressure in the magma chamber of several tens to hundreds of kilopascals. PMID:26884136

  3. Traumatic brain injury in modern war

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ling, Geoffrey S. F.; Hawley, Jason; Grimes, Jamie; Macedonia, Christian; Hancock, James; Jaffee, Michael; Dombroski, Todd; Ecklund, James M.

    2013-05-01

    Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is common and especially with military service. In Iraq and Afghanistan, explosive blast related TBI has become prominent and is mainly from improvised explosive devices (IED). Civilian standard of care clinical practice guidelines (CPG) were appropriate has been applied to the combat setting. When such CPGs do not exist or are not applicable, new practice standards for the military are created, as for TBI. Thus, CPGs for prehospital care of combat TBI CPG [1] and mild TBI/concussion [2] were introduced as was a DoD system-wide clinical care program, the first large scale system wide effort to address all severities of TBI in a comprehensive organized way. As TBI remains incompletely understood, substantial research is underway. For the DoD, leading this effort are The Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center, National Intrepid Center of Excellence and the Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury. This program is a beginning, a work in progress ready to leverage advances made scientifically and always with the intent of providing the best care to its military beneficiaries.

  4. Impact of steam explosion on the wheat straw lignin structure studied by solution-state nuclear magnetic resonance and density functional methods.

    PubMed

    Heikkinen, Harri; Elder, Thomas; Maaheimo, Hannu; Rovio, Stella; Rahikainen, Jenni; Kruus, Kristiina; Tamminen, Tarja

    2014-10-29

    Chemical changes of lignin induced by the steam explosion (SE) process were elucidated. Wheat straw was studied as the raw material, and lignins were isolated by the enzymatic mild acidolysis lignin (EMAL) procedure before and after the SE treatment for analyses mainly by two-dimensional (2D) [heteronuclear single-quantum coherence (HSQC) and heteronuclear multiple-bond correlation (HMBC)] and (31)P nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). The β-O-4 structures were found to be homolytically cleaved, followed by recoupling to β-5 linkages. The homolytic cleavage/recoupling reactions were also studied by computational methods, which verified their thermodynamic feasibility. The presence of the tricin bound to wheat straw lignin was confirmed, and it was shown to participate in lignin reactions during the SE treatment. The preferred homolytic β-O-4 cleavage reaction was calculated to follow bond dissociation energies: G-O-G (guaiacyl) (69.7 kcal/mol) > G-O-S (syringyl) (68.4 kcal/mol) > G-O-T (tricin) (67.0 kcal/mol).

  5. Laser initiation of Fe(II) complexes of 4-nitro-pyrazolyl substituted tetrazine ligands

    DOE PAGES

    Myers, Thomas Winfield; Brown, Kathryn Elizabeth; Chavez, David E.; ...

    2017-02-01

    Here, the synthesis and characterization of new 1,2,4-triazolyl and 4-nitro-pyrazolyl substituted tetrazine ligands has been achieved. The strongly electron deficient 1,2,4-triazolyl substituted ligands did not coordinate Fe(II) metal centers, while the mildly electron deficient 4-nitro-pyrazolyl substituted ligands did coordinate Fe(II) metal centers in a 2:1 ratio of ligand to metal. The thermal stability and mechanical sensitivity characteristics of the complexes are similar to the conventional explosive pentaerythritol tetranitrate. The complexes had strong absorption in the visible region of the spectrum that extended into the near-infrared. In spite of having improved oxygen balances, increased mechanical sensitivity, and similar absorption of NIRmore » light to recently reported Fe(II) tetrazine complexes, these newly synthesized explosives were more difficult to initiate with Nd:YAG pulsed laser light. More specifically, the complexes required lower densities (0.9 g/cm 3) to initiate at the same threshold utilized to initiate previous materials at higher densities (1.05 g/cm 3).« less

  6. Swarms of small earthquakes on Marapi Volcano, West Sumatra, Indonesia: are these precursors to explosion event?

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hidayat, D.; Patria, C.; Adi, S.; Gunawan, H.; Taisne, B.; Nurfiani, D.; Tan, C. T.

    2016-12-01

    Marapi Volcano's activity is characterized by Strombolian to small Vulcanian explosions with occasional VEI 2 producing tephra and pyroclastic flows. Currently in collaboration between Earth Observatory of Singapore (EOS) and Centre for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (CVGHM) the volcano is seismically monitored with 7 broadband stations, and 2 short-period stations. In addition, we deployed 2 tiltmeters and an experimental soil CO2 sensor. These stations are telemetered by 5.8GHz radio to Marapi Observatory Post where data are archived and displayed for Marapi observers for their daily volcano activity monitoring work. We also archive the data in the EOS and CVGHM main offices. Data are being utilized by volcano scientists of CVGHM and researchers in both institutes as well as university students in and around them. We presented seismic earthquake sequences (swarm) prior to small explosion on Marapi in July 2016. These earthquakes are small, better identified after the deployment of seismic stations at summit, and located at depths < 1km near the volcano active vents. Similar swarms occurred prior to small explosions of Marapi. We also presented VLP-LP signals associated with an explosion which can be explained as volumetric change of sub-vertical crack at depth similar to the occurrence of small earthquake swarms. Our study attempt to understand the state of the volcano based on monitoring data and enable us to better estimate the hazards associated with future small explosions or eruptions.

  7. Airblast Simulator Studies.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1984-02-01

    RAREFACTION WAVE ELIMINATOR CONSIDERATIONS 110 5.1 FLIP CALCULATIONS 110 5.2 A PASSIVE/ACTIVE RWE 118 6 DISTRIBUTED FUEL AIR EXPLOSIVES 120 REFERENCES 123 TA...conventional and distributed-charge fuel- air explosive charges used in a study of the utility of distributed charge FAE systems for blast simulation. The...limited investigation of distributed charge fuel air explosive configurations for blast simulator applications. During the course of this study

  8. Bilateral Deficit in Explosive Force Production Is Not Caused by Changes in Agonist Neural Drive

    PubMed Central

    Buckthorpe, Matthew W.; Pain, Matthew T. G.; Folland, Jonathan P.

    2013-01-01

    Bilateral deficit (BLD) describes the phenomenon of a reduction in performance during synchronous bilateral (BL) movements when compared to the sum of identical unilateral (UL) movements. Despite a large body of research investigating BLD of maximal voluntary force (MVF) there exist a paucity of research examining the BLD for explosive strength. Therefore, this study investigated the BLD in voluntary and electrically-evoked explosive isometric contractions of the knee extensors and assessed agonist and antagonist neuromuscular activation and measurement artefacts as potential mechanisms. Thirteen healthy untrained males performed a series of maximum and explosive voluntary contractions bilaterally (BL) and unilaterally (UL). UL and BL evoked twitch and octet contractions were also elicited. Two separate load cells were used to measure MVF and explosive force at 50, 100 and 150 ms after force onset. Surface EMG amplitude was measured from three superficial agonists and an antagonist. Rate of force development (RFD) and EMG were reported over consecutive 50 ms periods (0–50, 50–100 and 100–150 ms). Performance during UL contractions was compared to combined BL performance to measure BLD. Single limb performance during the BL contractions was assessed and potential measurement artefacts, including synchronisation of force onset from the two limbs, controlled for. MVF showed no BLD (P = 0.551), but there was a BLD for explosive force at 100 ms (11.2%, P = 0.007). There was a BLD in RFD 50–100 ms (14.9%, P = 0.004), but not for the other periods. Interestingly, there was a BLD in evoked force measures (6.3–9.0%, P<0.001). There was no difference in agonist or antagonist EMG for any condition (P≥0.233). Measurement artefacts contributed minimally to the observed BLD. The BLD in volitional explosive force found here could not be explained by measurement issues, or agonist and antagonist neuromuscular activation. The BLD in voluntary and evoked explosive force might indicate insufficient stabiliser muscle activation during BL explosive contractions. PMID:23472091

  9. Methane Explosion Mitigation in Coal Mines by Water Mist

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chikhradze, Nikoloz; Mataradze, Edgar; Chikhradze, Mikheil; Krauthammer, Ted; Mansurov, Zulkhair; Alyiev, Erhan

    2017-12-01

    Statistics shows that the majority of accidents with fatal outcome are caused by methane and/or coal dust explosion. This leads to assume that contemporary counter-explosion systems of various designs cannot be considered effective. Considering the growing threat of methane explosion in the coming years along with the development of deeper levels, the improvement of a system for protecting people in underground opening appears urgent. This paper focuses on technical solutions to be used in designing a protective system for minimizing the consequences of methane explosions in coalmines. The new protective system consists of three main modules: i) a high-speed shock wave suppression section; ii) a suppression section with a long-term action and iii) a system activating device. The shock wave suppressor contains a 200 litre volume water tank with a built-in gas generator and nozzles. It is activated after 12ms from the blast moment, the duration of discharge is 40 s. The suppression section with a long-term action contains a 2000 litre volume water tank, a high-pressure pump, a hydraulic accumulator, solenoid valves, and a system of pipes with built-in nozzles. It is activated after 4 s from the blast moment, the duration of discharge is 8 min. The activation device includes a detection block containing sensors, an emergency signal generation module, a signal transmission module, a signal receiving module and a power supply module. The system operates in a waiting mode and activates immediately upon the receipt of the start signal generated by the detector. The paper also addresses the preliminary results of the system prototype testing in the tunnel.

  10. Mild Hypothermia Attenuates Mitochondrial Oxidative Stress by Protecting Respiratory Enzymes and Upregulating MnSOD in a Pig Model of Cardiac Arrest

    PubMed Central

    Gong, Ping; Li, Chun-Sheng; Hua, Rong; Zhao, Hong; Tang, Zi-Ren; Mei, Xue; Zhang, Ming-Yue; Cui, Juan

    2012-01-01

    Mild hypothermia is the only effective treatment confirmed clinically to improve neurological outcomes for comatose patients with cardiac arrest. However, the underlying mechanism is not fully elucidated. In this study, our aim was to determine the effect of mild hypothermia on mitochondrial oxidative stress in the cerebral cortex. We intravascularly induced mild hypothermia (33°C), maintained this temperature for 12 h, and actively rewarmed in the inbred Chinese Wuzhishan minipigs successfully resuscitated after 8 min of untreated ventricular fibrillation. Cerebral samples were collected at 24 and 72 h following return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC). We found that mitochondrial malondialdehyde and protein carbonyl levels were significantly increased in the cerebral cortex in normothermic pigs even at 24 h after ROSC, whereas mild hypothermia attenuated this increase. Moreover, mild hypothermia attenuated the decrease in Complex I and Complex III (i.e., major sites of reactive oxygen species production) activities of the mitochondrial respiratory chain and increased antioxidant enzyme manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) activity. This increase in MnSOD activity was consistent with the upregulation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) mRNA and protein expressions, and with the increase of Nrf2 nuclear translocation in normothermic pigs at 24 and 72 h following ROSC, whereas mild hypothermia enhanced these tendencies. Thus, our findings indicate that mild hypothermia attenuates mitochondrial oxidative stress in the cerebral cortex, which may be associated with reduced impairment of mitochondrial respiratory chain enzymes, and enhancement of MnSOD activity and expression via Nrf2 activation. PMID:22532848

  11. Effect of physical activity on memory function in older adults with mild Alzheimer's disease and mild cognitive impairment.

    PubMed

    Tanigawa, Takanori; Takechi, Hajime; Arai, Hidenori; Yamada, Minoru; Nishiguchi, Shu; Aoyama, Tomoki

    2014-10-01

    It is very important to maintain cognitive function in patients with mild cognitive disorder. The aim of the present study was to determine whether the amount of physical activity is associated with memory function in older adults with mild cognitive disorder. A total of 47 older adults with mild cognitive disorder were studied; 30 were diagnosed with mild Alzheimer's disease and 17 with mild cognitive impairment. The global cognitive function, memory function, physical performance and amount of physical activity were measured in these patients. We divided these patients according to their walking speed (<1 m/s or >1 m/s). A total of 26 elderly patients were classified as the slow walking group, whereas 21 were classified as the normal walking group. The normal walking group was younger and had significantly better scores than the slow walking group in physical performance. Stepwise multiple linear regression analysis showed that only the daily step counts were associated with the Scenery Picture Memory Test in patients of the slow walking group (β=0.471, P=0.031), but not other variables. No variable was significantly associated with the Scenery Picture Memory Test in the normal walking group. Memory function was strongly associated with the amount of physical activity in patients with mild cognitive disorder who showed slow walking speed. The results show that lower physical activities could be a risk factor for cognitive decline, and that cognitive function in the elderly whose motor function and cognitive function are declining can be improved by increasing the amount of physical activity. © 2014 Japan Geriatrics Society.

  12. Development of a technique using MCNPX code for determination of nitrogen content of explosive materials using prompt gamma neutron activation analysis method

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nasrabadi, M. N.; Bakhshi, F.; Jalali, M.; Mohammadi, A.

    2011-12-01

    Nuclear-based explosive detection methods can detect explosives by identifying their elemental components, especially nitrogen. Thermal neutron capture reactions have been used for detecting prompt gamma 10.8 MeV following radioactive neutron capture by 14N nuclei. We aimed to study the feasibility of using field-portable prompt gamma neutron activation analysis (PGNAA) along with improved nuclear equipment to detect and identify explosives, illicit substances or landmines. A 252Cf radio-isotopic source was embedded in a cylinder made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and the cylinder was then placed in another cylindrical container filled with water. Measurements were performed on high nitrogen content compounds such as melamine (C3H6N6). Melamine powder in a HDPE bottle was placed underneath the vessel containing water and the neutron source. Gamma rays were detected using two NaI(Tl) crystals. The results were simulated with MCNP4c code calculations. The theoretical calculations and experimental measurements were in good agreement indicating that this method can be used for detection of explosives and illicit drugs.

  13. Wireless device for activation of an underground shock wave absorber

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chikhradze, M.; Akhvlediani, I.; Bochorishvili, N.; Mataradze, E.

    2011-10-01

    The paper describes the mechanism and design of the wireless device for activation of energy absorber for localization of blast energy in underground openings. The statistics shows that the greatest share of accidents with fatal results associate with explosions in coal mines due to aero-methane and/or air-coal media explosion. The other significant problem is terrorist or accidental explosions in underground structures. At present there are different protective systems to reduce the blast energy. One of the main parts of protective Systems is blast Identification and Registration Module. The works conducted at G. Tsulukidze Mining Institute of Georgia enabled to construct the wireless system of explosion detection and mitigation of shock waves. The system is based on the constant control on overpressure. The experimental research continues to fulfill the system based on both threats, on the constant control on overpressure and flame parameters, especially in underground structures and coal mines. Reaching the threshold value of any of those parameters, the system immediately starts the activation. The absorber contains a pyrotechnic device ensuring the discharge of dispersed water. The operational parameters of wireless device and activation mechanisms of pyrotechnic element of shock wave absorber are discussed in the paper.

  14. TIME-SEQUENCED X-RAY OBSERVATION OF A THERMAL EXPLOSION

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

    Tringe, J. W.; Molitoris, J. D.; Kercher, J. R.

    The evolution of a thermally-initiated explosion is studied using a multiple-image x-ray system. HMX-based PBX 9501 is used in this work, enabling direct comparison to recently-published data obtained with proton radiography [1]. Multiple x-ray images of the explosion are obtained with image spacing of ten microseconds or more. The explosion is simultaneously characterized with a high-speed camera using an interframe spacing of 11 mus. X-ray and camera images were both initiated passively by signals from an embedded thermocouple array, as opposed to being actively triggered by a laser pulse or other external source. X-ray images show an accelerating reacting frontmore » within the explosive, and also show unreacted explosive at the time the containment vessel bursts. High-speed camera images show debris ejected from the vessel expanding at 800-2100 m/s in the first tens of mus after the container wall failure. The effective center of the initiation volume is about 6 mm from the geometric center of the explosive.« less

  15. Cotopaxi volcano's unrest and eruptive activity in 2015: mild awakening after 73 years of quiescence

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hidalgo, Silvana; Bernard, Benjamin; Battaglia, Jean; Gaunt, Elizabeth; Barrington, Charlotte; Andrade, Daniel; Ramón, Patricio; Arellano, Santiago; Yepes, Hugo; Proaño, Antonio; Almeida, Stefanie; Sierra, Daniel; Dinger, Florian; Kelly, Peter; Parra, René; Bobrowski, Nicole; Galle, Bo; Almeida, Marco; Mothes, Patricia; Alvarado, Alexandra

    2016-04-01

    Cotopaxi volcano (5,897 m) is located 50 km south of Quito, the capital of Ecuador. The most dangerous hazards of this volcano are the devastating lahars that can be generated by the melting of its ice cap during pyroclastic flow-forming eruptions. The first seismic station was installed in 1976. Cotopaxi has been monitored by the Instituto Geofísico (Escuela Politécnica Nacional) since 1983. Presently the monitoring network is comprised of 11 broadband and 5 short period seismometers, 4 scanning DOAS, 1 infrared and 5 visible cameras, 7 DGPS, 5 tiltmeters, 11 AFM (lahar detectors) and a network of ashmeters. Due to the recent unrest, the monitoring of the volcano has been complemented by campaign airborne Multi-GAS and thermal IR measurements and ground-based mobile DOAS and stationary solar FTIR. After 73 years of quiescence, the first sign of unrest was a progressive increase in the amplitude of transient seismic events in April 2015. Since May 20, an increase in SO2 emissions from ˜500 t/d to ˜3 kt/day was detected followed by the appearance of seismic tremor on June 4. Both SO2 emissions of up to 5 kt/day and seismic tremor were observed until August 14 when a swarm of volcano-tectonic earthquakes preceded the first phreatic explosions. These explosions produced ash and gas columns reaching up to 9 km above the crater. The ash fall produced by the opening phase covered over 500 km2 with a submillimetric deposit corresponding to a mass of 1.65E+8 kg (VEI 1). During this period of explosions, SO2 emission rates up to 24 kt/day were observed, the highest thus far. The ash was dominantly hydrothermally altered and oxidized lithic fragments, hydrothermal minerals (alunite, gypsum), free crystals of plagioclase and pyroxenes, and little juvenile material. Unrest continued after August 14, with three episodes of ash emission. However, the intensity of ash fallout, average seismic amplitude, and SO2 emissions during each successive episode progressively decreased, while juvenile component increased. Total ash fallout mass since August 14 yield 1.19E+9 kg. During these episodes BrO and HCl were detected in the plume, and airborne Multi-GAS measurements showed that the plume had a CO2/SO2 ratio from 1 to 2.5 and that SO2 was >99% of total sulfur (SO2+ H2S), indicating a shallow magmatic origin for the gas. During ash emissions temperatures of up to 200° C were measured at the column with an IR camera. Thermal anomalies in the upper part of the edifice have also been observed and have resulted in minor melting of the ice cap. This phenomenon has produced small secondary lahars with a maximum discharge on the order of 10 to 30 m3/s. Since late November 2015, surface manifestations and the other monitored parameters have shown a marked decrease. Historical reports of Cotopaxi's activity show that both short and long-lasting eruptive periods usually start with mild eruptive phases prior to culminating in VEI 3 or 4 eruptions. Therefore special care should be taken in monitoring unrest at Cotopaxi in order to identify precursory signs of a larger eruption.

  16. The Off-Site Plowshare and Vela Uniform Programs: Assessing Potential Environmental Liabilities through an Examination of Proposed Nuclear Projects,High Explosive Experiments, and High Explosive Construction Activities Volume 1 of 3

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

    Beck Colleen M,Edwards Susan R.,King Maureen L.

    2011-09-01

    This document presents the results of nearly six years (2002-2008) of historical research and field studies concerned with evaluating potential environmental liabilities associated with U.S. Atomic Energy Commission projects from the Plowshare and Vela Uniform Programs. The Plowshare Program's primary purpose was to develop peaceful uses for nuclear explosives. The Vela Uniform Program focused on improving the capability of detecting, monitoring and identifying underground nuclear detonations. As a result of the Project Chariot site restoration efforts in the early 1990s, there were concerns that there might be other project locations with potential environmental liabilities. The Desert Research Institute conducted archivalmore » research to identify projects, an analysis of project field activities, and completed field studies at locations where substantial fieldwork had been undertaken for the projects. Although the Plowshare and Vela Uniform nuclear projects are well known, the projects that are included in this research are relatively unknown. They are proposed nuclear projects that were not executed, proposed and executed high explosive experiments, and proposed and executed high explosive construction activities off the Nevada Test Site. The research identified 170 Plowshare and Vela Uniform off-site projects and many of these had little or no field activity associated with them. However, there were 27 projects that merited further investigation and field studies were conducted at 15 locations.« less

  17. The Off-Site Plowshare and Vela Uniform Programs: Assessing Potential Environmental Liabilities through an Examination of Proposed Nuclear Projects,High Explosive Experiments, and High Explosive Construction Activities Volume 3 of 3

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

    Beck Colleen M.,Edwards Susan R.,King Maureen L.

    2011-09-01

    This document presents the results of nearly six years (2002-2008) of historical research and field studies concerned with evaluating potential environmental liabilities associated with U.S. Atomic Energy Commission projects from the Plowshare and Vela Uniform Programs. The Plowshare Program's primary purpose was to develop peaceful uses for nuclear explosives. The Vela Uniform Program focused on improving the capability of detecting, monitoring and identifying underground nuclear detonations. As a result of the Project Chariot site restoration efforts in the early 1990s, there were concerns that there might be other project locations with potential environmental liabilities. The Desert Research Institute conducted archivalmore » research to identify projects, an analysis of project field activities, and completed field studies at locations where substantial fieldwork had been undertaken for the projects. Although the Plowshare and Vela Uniform nuclear projects are well known, the projects that are included in this research are relatively unknown. They are proposed nuclear projects that were not executed, proposed and executed high explosive experiments, and proposed and executed high explosive construction activities off the Nevada Test Site. The research identified 170 Plowshare and Vela Uniform off-site projects and many of these had little or no field activity associated with them. However, there were 27 projects that merited further investigation and field studies were conducted at 15 locations.« less

  18. The Off-Site Plowshare and Vela Uniform Programs: Assessing Potential Environmental Liabilities through an Examination of Proposed Nuclear Projects,High Explosive Experiments, and High Explosive Construction Activities Volume 2 of 3

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

    Beck Colleen M.,Edwards Susan R.,King Maureen L.

    2011-09-01

    This document presents the results of nearly six years (2002-2008) of historical research and field studies concerned with evaluating potential environmental liabilities associated with U.S. Atomic Energy Commission projects from the Plowshare and Vela Uniform Programs. The Plowshare Program's primary purpose was to develop peaceful uses for nuclear explosives. The Vela Uniform Program focused on improving the capability of detecting, monitoring and identifying underground nuclear detonations. As a result of the Project Chariot site restoration efforts in the early 1990s, there were concerns that there might be other project locations with potential environmental liabilities. The Desert Research Institute conducted archivalmore » research to identify projects, an analysis of project field activities, and completed field studies at locations where substantial fieldwork had been undertaken for the projects. Although the Plowshare and Vela Uniform nuclear projects are well known, the projects that are included in this research are relatively unknown. They are proposed nuclear projects that were not executed, proposed and executed high explosive experiments, and proposed and executed high explosive construction activities off the Nevada Test Site. The research identified 170 Plowshare and Vela Uniform off-site projects and many of these had little or no field activity associated with them. However, there were 27 projects that merited further investigation and field studies were conducted at 15 locations.« less

  19. Explosive Deep Sea Volcanism Produces Composite Volcanoes (Stratocones) with Predominantly Diffuse Flow Hydrothermal Ecosystems

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rubin, K. H.; Chadwick, W. C.; Embley, R. W.; Butterfield, D. A.

    2018-05-01

    Newly-discovered extensive explosive deep sea volcanism produces distinct stratovolcano structures and physical rock characteristics, and host primarily diffuse flow hydrothermal activity, unlike focused flow systems at effusive submarine volcanoes.

  20. Design of a novel instrument for active neutron interrogation of artillery shells.

    PubMed

    Bélanger-Champagne, Camille; Vainionpää, Hannes; Peura, Pauli; Toivonen, Harri; Eerola, Paula; Dendooven, Peter

    2017-01-01

    The most common explosives can be uniquely identified by measuring the elemental H/N ratio with a precision better than 10%. Monte Carlo simulations were used to design two variants of a new prompt gamma neutron activation instrument that can achieve this precision. The instrument features an intense pulsed neutron generator with precise timing. Measuring the hydrogen peak from the target explosive is especially challenging because the instrument itself contains hydrogen, which is needed for neutron moderation and shielding. By iterative design optimization, the fraction of the hydrogen peak counts coming from the explosive under interrogation increased from [Formula: see text]% to [Formula: see text]% (statistical only) for the benchmark design. In the optimized design variants, the hydrogen signal from a high-explosive shell can be measured to a statistics-only precision better than 1% in less than 30 minutes for an average neutron production yield of 109 n/s.

  1. Design of a novel instrument for active neutron interrogation of artillery shells

    PubMed Central

    Vainionpää, Hannes; Peura, Pauli; Toivonen, Harri; Eerola, Paula; Dendooven, Peter

    2017-01-01

    The most common explosives can be uniquely identified by measuring the elemental H/N ratio with a precision better than 10%. Monte Carlo simulations were used to design two variants of a new prompt gamma neutron activation instrument that can achieve this precision. The instrument features an intense pulsed neutron generator with precise timing. Measuring the hydrogen peak from the target explosive is especially challenging because the instrument itself contains hydrogen, which is needed for neutron moderation and shielding. By iterative design optimization, the fraction of the hydrogen peak counts coming from the explosive under interrogation increased from 53-7+7% to 74-10+8% (statistical only) for the benchmark design. In the optimized design variants, the hydrogen signal from a high-explosive shell can be measured to a statistics-only precision better than 1% in less than 30 minutes for an average neutron production yield of 109 n/s. PMID:29211773

  2. Progressive Return to Activity Following Acute Concussion/Mild Traumatic Brain Injury: Guidance for the Rehabilitation Provider in Deployed and Non-deployed Settings

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2014-01-01

    RPE and references are also included as part of the CST. DCoE Clinical Recommendation | January 2014 Progressive Return to Activity Following Acute...Recommendation | January 2014 Progressive Return to Activity Following Acute Concussion/Mild Traumatic Brain Injury: Guidance for the Rehabilitation Provider...days Symptoms are worsening 3 DCoE Clinical Recommendation | January 2014 Progressive Return to Activity Following Acute Concussion/Mild Traumatic

  3. SWAN - Detection of explosives by means of fast neutron activation analysis

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gierlik, M.; Borsuk, S.; Guzik, Z.; Iwanowska, J.; Kaźmierczak, Ł.; Korolczuk, S.; Kozłowski, T.; Krakowski, T.; Marcinkowski, R.; Swiderski, L.; Szeptycka, M.; Szewiński, J.; Urban, A.

    2016-10-01

    In this work we report on SWAN, the experimental, portable device for explosives detection. The device was created as part of the EU Structural Funds Project "Accelerators & Detectors" (POIG.01.01.02-14-012/08-00), with the goal to increase beneficiary's expertise and competencies in the field of neutron activation analysis. Previous experiences and budged limitations lead toward a less advanced design based on fast neutron interactions and unsophisticated data analysis with the emphasis on the latest gamma detection and spectrometry solutions. The final device has been designed as a portable, fast neutron activation analyzer, with the software optimized for detection of carbon, nitrogen and oxygen. SWAN's performance in the role of explosives detector is elaborated in this paper. We demonstrate that the unique features offered by neutron activation analysis might not be impressive enough when confronted with practical demands and expectations of a generic homeland security customer.

  4. Standoff laser-based spectroscopy for explosives detection

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gaft, M.; Nagli, L.

    2007-10-01

    Real time detection and identification of explosives at a standoff distance is a major issue in efforts to develop defense against so-called Improvised Explosive Devices (IED). It is recognized that the only technique, which is potentially capable to standoff detection of minimal amounts of explosives is laser-based spectroscopy. LDS activity is based on a combination of laser-based spectroscopic methods with orthogonal capabilities. Our technique belongs to trace detection, namely to its micro-particles variety. It is based on commonly held belief that surface contamination was very difficult to avoid and could be exploited for standoff detection. We has applied optical techniques including gated Raman and time-resolved luminescence spectroscopy for detection of main explosive materials, both factory and homemade. We developed and tested a Raman system for the field remote detection and identification of minimal amounts of explosives on relevant surfaces at a distance of up to 30 meters.

  5. Monte Carlo Simulations for the Detection of Buried Objects Using Single Sided Backscattered Radiation.

    PubMed

    Yip, Mary; Saripan, M Iqbal; Wells, Kevin; Bradley, David A

    2015-01-01

    Detection of buried improvised explosive devices (IEDs) is a delicate task, leading to a need to develop sensitive stand-off detection technology. The shape, composition and size of the IEDs can be expected to be revised over time in an effort to overcome increasingly sophisticated detection methods. As an example, for the most part, landmines are found through metal detection which has led to increasing use of non-ferrous materials such as wood or plastic containers for chemical based explosives being developed. Monte Carlo simulations have been undertaken considering three different commercially available detector materials (hyperpure-Ge (HPGe), lanthanum(III) bromide (LaBr) and thallium activated sodium iodide (NaI(Tl)), applied at a stand-off distance of 50 cm from the surface and burial depths of 0, 5 and 10 cm, with sand as the obfuscating medium. Target materials representing medium density wood and mild steel have been considered. Each detector has been modelled as a 10 cm thick cylinder with a 20 cm diameter. It appears that HPGe represents the most promising detector for this application. Although it was not the highest density material studied, its excellent energy resolving capability leads to the highest quality spectra from which detection decisions can be inferred. The simulation work undertaken here suggests that a vehicle-born threat detection system could be envisaged using a single betatron and a series of detectors operating in parallel observing the space directly in front of the vehicle path. Furthermore, results show that non-ferrous materials such as wood can be effectively discerned in such remote-operated detection system, with the potential to apply a signature analysis template matching technique for real-time analysis of such data.

  6. MRSI of the Medial Temporal Lobe at 7T in Explosive Blast Mild Traumatic Brain Injury

    PubMed Central

    Hetherington, HP; Hamid, H; Kulas, J; Ling, G; Bandak, F; de Lanerolle, NC; Pan, JW

    2013-01-01

    Purpose Up to 19% of veterans returning from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have a history of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) with 70% associated with blast exposure. Tragically, 20–50% of this group reports persistent symptoms, including memory loss. Unfortunately, routine clinical imaging is typically normal, making diagnosis and clinical management difficult. The goal of this work was to develop methods to acquire hippocampal MRSI at 7T and evaluate their sensitivity to detect injury in veterans with mTBI. Methods At 7T, hippocampal MRSI measurements are limited by: 1) poor B0 homogeneity; 2) insufficient B1+ strength and homogeneity; and 3) chemical shift dispersion artifacts. To overcome these limitations we: 1) used 3rd degree B0 shimming; 2) an inductively decoupled transceiver array with RF shimming and 3) a volume localized single slice sequence using RF shimming based outer volume suppression. Results In 20 controls and 25 veterans with mTBI due to blast exposure with memory impairment, hippocampal NAA/Cho (P<0.001) and NAA/Cr (P<0.001) were decreased in comparison to control subjects. Conclusion With the appropriate methods robust spectroscopic imaging of the hippocampus can be carried out at 7T. MRSI at 7T can detect hippocampal injury in veterans with mild traumatic brain injury. PMID:23918077

  7. Protected by nature? Effects of strenuous physical exercise on FVIII activity in moderate and mild haemophilia A patients: a pilot study.

    PubMed

    Groen, W G; den Uijl, I E M; van der Net, J; Grobbee, D E; de Groot, Ph G; Fischer, K

    2013-07-01

    Increase of factor VIII activity (FVIII) after physical exercise has been reported in healthy subjects and small-scale studies in patients with coagulopathies. The aim was to study whether moderate and mild haemophilia A patients are able to increase their endogenous FVIII activity levels by physical activity. We studied changes in FVIII activity levels after high-intensity exercise in 15 haemophilia A patients, 20-39 years, eight with moderate, seven with mild haemophilia. Patients cycled until volitional exhaustion, blood samples were drawn before and 10 min after the exercise test. FVIII activity increased 2.5 times (range 1.8-7.0 times), for both severities. Absolute increases were markedly different: median 7 IU dL(-1) (range 3-9 IU dL(-1) ) in patients with moderate, compared to 15 IU dL(-1) (range 6-62 IU dL(-1) ) in mild haemophilia patients. VWF and VWFpp increased independently of severity; median 50% (range 8-123%) and median 165% (range 48-350%), respectively, reflecting acute release of VWF. These observations may be used to promote high-intensity activities before participating in sports for moderate and mild haemophilia A patients, to reduce bleeding risk. Further studies are warranted to fully appreciate the clinical significance of exercise on different levels of intensity in patients with mild and moderate haemophilia A. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  8. Acoustic and tephra records of explosive eruptions at West Mata submarine volcano, NE Lau Basin

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dziak, R. P.; Bohnenstiehl, D. R.; Baker, E. T.; Matsumoto, H.; Caplan-Auerbach, J.; Mack, C. J.; Embley, R. W.; Merle, S. G.; Walker, S. L.; Lau, T. A.

    2013-12-01

    West Mata is a 1200 m deep submarine volcano where explosive boninite eruptions were directly observed in May 2009. Here we present long-term acoustic and tephra records of West Mata explosion activity from three deployments of hydrophone and particle sensor moorings beginning on 8 January 2009. These records provide insights into the character of explosive magma degassing occurring at the volcano's summit vent until the decline and eventual cessation of the eruption during late 2010 and early 2011. The detailed acoustic records show three types of volcanic signals, 1) discrete explosions, 2) diffuse explosions, and 3) volcanic tremor. Discrete explosions are short duration, high amplitude broad-band signals caused by rapid gas bubble release. Diffuse signals are likely a result of 'trap-door' explosions where a quench cap of cooled lava forms over the magmatic vent but gas pressure builds underneath the cap. This pressure eventually causes the cap to breach and gas is explosively released until pressure reduces and the cap once again forms. Volcanic tremor is typified by narrow-band, long-duration signals with overtones, as well as narrow-band tones that vary frequency over time between 60-100 Hz. The harmonic tremor is thought to be caused by modulation of rapid, short duration gas explosion pulses and not a magma resonance phenomenon. The variable frequency tones may be caused by focused degassing or hydrothermal fluid flow from a narrow volcanic vent or conduit. High frequency (>30 Hz) tremor-like bands of energy are a result of interference caused by multipath wide-band signals, including sea-surface reflected acoustic phases, that arrive at the hydrophone with small time delays. Acoustic data suggest that eruption velocities for a single explosion range from 4-50 m s-1, although synchronous arrival of explosion signals has complicated our efforts to estimate long-term gas flux. Single explosions exhibit ~4-40 m3 s-1 of total volume flux (gas and rock) but with durations of only 20-30 ms. Interestingly, explosion activity increased at West Mata for several months, observed at more distant hydrophone stations, following the September 2009 8.1 Mw Samoan earthquake. The tephra and hydrophone data were only synchronously recorded from January to May 2010, but these data indicate a repeated record of summit explosions followed by down flank debris flows, an important process in the construction of the volcanic edifice. Bathymetric differencing between 2010 and 2011 shows two large negative anomalies at the summit and a broad positive anomaly on the east flank, interpreted as a major slump that removed part of the summit during the final magma withdrawal related to formation of the summit pit crater.

  9. SO2 Emissions at Semeru Volcano, Indonesia: Characterization and Quantification of Persistent and Periodic Explosive Activity.

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Smekens, J. F.; Clarke, A. B.; Burton, M. R.; Harijoko, A.; Wibowo, H.

    2014-12-01

    We present the first measurements of SO2 emissions at Semeru volcano, Indonesia, using an SO2 camera. Activity at Semeru is characterized by quiescent degassing interspersed with short-lived explosive events with low ash burden. The interval between explosions was measured at 32.1±15.7 minutes in a webcam survey of the volcano between the months of June and December 2013. We distinguish between two types of events: shorter events (type I: ~5 mins duration) with emissions returning quickly to baseline levels, and longer events (type II: ~15 mins duration) often showing multiple pulses and a longer period of increased emissions before a return to quiescent levels. Type I events represent >90% of the activity and release an average of 200-450 kg of SO2 per event. The single type II event we documented with the SO2 camera released a total of 1300 kg of SO2. We estimate the daily average emissions of Semeru to be 21-60 t d-1 of SO2, amounting to a yearly output of 7.5-22 Gg (7,500 - 22,000 metric tons), with 35-60% released during explosive events. The time series patterns of degassing are consistent with the existence of a viscous plug at the top of the conduit, causing accumulation and pressurization of the magma to produce the explosive events.

  10. Quantification of Rock Damage from Small Explosions and Its Effect on Shear-Wave Generation

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2009-06-15

    close to a nearby cell /radio tower and the active quarry wall to detonate our planned 400 lb explosions. Core drilling at an alternative test site...Figure ) was conducted further away from the active quarry wall and a nearby cell /radio tower. The alternative site would be far enough away from...returned into the original location (Figure ). In order to reduce the projected ground vibrations at the cell /radio tower and high wall of the active

  11. Thermochemical properties of nanometer CL-20 and PETN fabricated using a mechanical milling method

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Song, Xiaolan; Wang, Yi; An, Chongwei

    2018-06-01

    2,4,6,8,10,12-Hexanitro-2,4,6,8,10,12-hexaazaisowurtzitane (CL-20) and pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN), with mean sizes of 73.8 nm and 267.7 nm, respectively, were fabricated on a high-energy ball-mill. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis was used to image the micron-scale morphology of nano-explosives, and the particle size distribution was calculated using the statistics of individual particle sizes obtained from the SEM images. Analyses, such as X-ray diffractometer (XRD), infrared spectroscopy (IR), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), were also used to confirm whether the crystal phase, molecular structure, and surface elements changed after a long-term milling process. The results were as expected. Thermal analysis was performed at different heating rates. Parameters, such as the activation energy (ES), activation enthalpy (ΔH≠), activation free energy (ΔG≠), activation entropy (ΔS≠), and critical temperature of thermal explosion (Tb), were calculated to determine the decomposition courses of the explosives. Moreover, the thermal decomposition mechanisms of nano CL-20 and nano PETN were investigated using thermal-infrared spectrometry online (DSC-IR) analysis, by which their gas products were also detected. The results indicated that nano CL-20 decomposed to CO2 and N2O and that nano PETN decayed to NO2, which implied a remarkable difference between the decomposition mechanisms of the two explosives. In addition, the mechanical sensitivities of CL-20 and PETN were tested, and the results revealed that nano-explosives were more insensitive than raw ones, and the possible mechanism for this was discussed. Thermal sensitivity was also investigated with a 5 s bursting point test, from which the 5 s bursting point (T5s) and the activation of the deflagration were obtained.

  12. Development of a contrast phantom for active millimeter-wave imaging systems

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Barber, Jeffrey; Weatherall, James C.; Brauer, Carolyn S.; Smith, Barry T.

    2011-06-01

    As the development of active millimeter wave imaging systems continues, it is necessary to validate materials that simulate the expected response of explosives. While physics-based models have been used to develop simulants, it is desirable to image both the explosive and simulant together in a controlled fashion in order to demonstrate success. To this end, a millimeter wave contrast phantom has been created to calibrate image grayscale while controlling the configuration of the explosive and simulant such that direct comparison of their respective returns can be performed. The physics of the phantom are described, with millimeter wave images presented to show successful development of the phantom and simulant validation at GHz frequencies.

  13. Optical ordnance system for use in explosive ordnance disposal activities

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Merson, J. A.; Salas, F. J.; Helsel, F.M.

    1994-01-01

    A portable hand-held solid state rod laser system and an optically-ignited detonator have been developed for use in explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) activities. Laser prototypes from Whittaker Ordnance and Universal Propulsion have been tested and evaluated. The optical detonator contains 2-(5 cyanotetrazolato) pentaamine cobalt(III) perchlorate (CP) as the DDT column and the explosive Octahydro- 1,3,5,7 - tetrazocine (HMX) as the output charge. The laser is designed to have an output of 150 mJ in a 500 microsecond pulse. This output allows firing through 2000 meters of optical fiber. The detonator can also be ignited with a portable laser diode source through a shorter length of fiber.

  14. Physical structure changes of solid medium by steam explosion sterilization.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Zhi-Min; Wang, Lan; Chen, Hong-Zhang

    2016-03-01

    Physical structure changes of solid medium were investigated to reveal effects of steam explosion sterilization on solid-state fermentation (SSF). Results indicated that steam explosion changed the structure of solid medium at both molecular and three-dimensional structural levels, which exposed hydrophilic groups and enlarged pores and cavities. It was interesting to find that pores where capillary water located were the active sites for SSF, due to the close relationship among capillary water relaxation time, specific surface area and fermentation performance. Therefore, steam explosion sterilization increased the effective contact area for microbial cells on solid medium, which contributed to improving SSF performance. Combined with the previous research, mechanisms of SSF improvement by steam explosion sterilization contained both chemical and physical effects. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  15. Discrepancy between functional exercise capacity and daily physical activity: a cross-sectional study in patients with mild to moderate COPD.

    PubMed

    Fastenau, Annemieke; van Schayck, Onno C P; Gosselink, Rik; Aretz, Karin C P M; Muris, Jean W M

    2013-12-01

    In patients with moderate to severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) the six-minute walk distance reflects the functional exercise level for daily physical activity. It is unknown if this also applies to patients with mild to moderate COPD in primary care. To assess the relationship between functional exercise capacity and physical activity in patients with mild to moderate COPD. A cross-sectional study was performed in 51 patients with mild to moderate COPD in primary care. Functional exercise capacity was assessed by the six-minute walk test and physical activity was measured with an accelerometer-based activity monitor. Functional exercise capacity was close to normal values. However, the daily physical activity of the patients could be classified as 'sedentary' and 'low active'. No significant correlations were observed between six-minute walk distance (% predicted) and any of the physical activity variables (steps per day, movement intensity during walking, total active time, total walking time, physical activity level, and time spent in moderate physical activity). A discrepancy was found between functional exercise capacity and daily physical activity in patients with mild to moderate COPD recruited and assessed in primary care. We conclude that these variables represent two different concepts. Our results reinforce the importance of measuring daily physical activity in order to fine-tune treatment (i.e. focusing on enhancement of exercise capacity or behavioural change, or both).

  16. Fatal and non-fatal injuries due to intentional explosions in Nepal, 2008-2011: analysis of surveillance data

    PubMed Central

    2013-01-01

    Background Nepal is one of the post-conflict countries affected by violence from explosive devices. We undertook this study to assess the magnitude of injuries due to intentional explosions in Nepal during 2008-2011 and to describe time trends and epidemiologic patterns for these events. Methods We analyzed surveillance data on fatal and non-fatal injuries due to intentional explosions in Nepal that occurred between 1 January 2008 and 31 December 2011. The case definition included casualties injured or killed by explosive devices knowingly activated by an individual or a group of individuals with the intent to harm, hurt or terrorize. Data were collected through media-based and active community-based surveillance. Results Analysis included 437 casualties injured or killed in 131 intentional explosion incidents. A decrease in the number of incidents and casualties between January 2008 and June 2009 was followed by a pronounced increase between July 2010 and June 2011. Eighty-four (19.2%) casualties were among females and 40 (9.2%) were among children under 18 years of age. Fifty-nine (45.3%) incidents involved one casualty, 47 (35.9%) involved 2 to 4 casualties, and 6 involved more than 10 casualties. The overall case-fatality ratio was 7.8%. The highest numbers of incidents occurred in streets or at crossroads, in victims’ homes, and in shops or markets. Incidents on buses and near stadiums claimed the highest numbers of casualties per incident. Socket, sutali, and pressure cooker bombs caused the highest numbers of incidents. Conclusions Intentional explosion incidents still pose a threat to the civilian population of Nepal. Most incidents are caused by small homemade explosive devices and occur in public places, and males aged 20 to 39 account for a plurality of casualties. Stakeholders addressing the explosive device problem in Nepal should continue to use surveillance data to plan interventions. PMID:23514664

  17. Thermal imaging and analysis of short-lived Vulcanian explosions at Volcán de Colima, Mexico

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Webb, Erica B.; Varley, Nick R.; Pyle, David M.; Mather, Tamsin A.

    2014-05-01

    Vulcanian explosions present a major hazard at many active volcanoes, but they also provide useful insights into the underlying behaviour of the volcanic system and therefore require close monitoring. Thermal infrared cameras are an effective tool for imaging Vulcanian explosion plumes since they capture detailed temperature information, and can reveal the internal dynamics of the plume-forming explosions. High spatial resolution thermal images of 200 small to moderate sized Vulcanian explosions from the summit crater of Volcán de Colima, Mexico, recorded between 2006 and 2011, were analysed to distinguish different event types and develop an explosion classification scheme. Explosions display a broad spectrum of sizes and characteristics, ranging between two typical end-members: “large-impulsive” events producing rapidly ascending explosion plumes up to heights of 600-1600 m above the crater rim, and “small-diffusive” events with plumes restricted to heights < 600 m. Most explosion plumes comprise a steady “gas-thrust” feeder plume below a convecting plume front. Others, that lack sufficient kinetic energy, rise buoyantly throughout the explosion, with steady buoyant ascent velocities ranging from ~ 1 m s- 1 to ~ 29 m s- 1. A time-series of thermal imagery throughout the period 2006-2011 reveals a weak relationship between apparent plume temperatures and lava dome extrusion, with the highest explosion temperatures coinciding with the onset of dome growth in early 2007. Temporal variations in the source locations of explosions across the summit crater are also identified and appear to show a close relationship to the patterns of lava dome growth and thermal evolution, with explosion source locations associated with the highest temperature thermal features.

  18. DOE explosives safety manual

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    1990-05-01

    The Department of Energy (DOE) policy requires that all activities be conducted in a manner that protects the safety of the public and provides a safe and healthful workplace for employees. DOE has also prescribed that all personnel be protected in any explosives operation undertaken. The level of safety provided shall be at least equivalent to that of the best industrial practice. The risk of death or serious injury shall be limited to the lowest practicable minimum. DOE and contractors shall continually review their explosives operations with the aim of achieving further refinements and improvements in safety practices and protective features. This manual describes the Department's explosive safety requirements applicable to operations involving the development, testing, handling, and processing of explosives or assemblies containing explosives. It is intended to reflect the state-of-the-art in explosives safety. In addition, it is essential that applicable criteria and requirements for implementing this policy be readily available and known to those responsible for conducting DOE programs. This document shall be periodically reviewed and updated to establish new requirements as appropriate. Users are requested to submit suggestions for improving the DOE Explosives Safety Manual through their appropriate Operations Office to the Office of Quality Programs.

  19. Insights into different Strombolian explosive styles by remote controlled OP-FTIR (CERBERUS) measurements

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Spina Alessandro, La; Mike, Burton; Filippo, Murè; Roberto, Maugeri

    2014-05-01

    In this paper we present the results and interpretation of gas composition data collected by a permanent OP-FTIR system (CERBERUS) installed at Stromboli summit. The instrument allows remote control observation and measurement of gas emissions from different points within volcano's crater terrace, using an integrated infrared camera / scanning mirror / FTIR system. Given that an OpenPath Fourier Transform InfraRed (FTIR) spectrometer allows the simultaneously measure all the major species contained in volcanic gas emissions, we could observe the different explosive styles fed by Stromboli volcano. Stromboli volcano, in the Aeolian island arc, is known as the "Lighthouse of the Mediterranean" for its regular (~every 10-20 min) explosive activity, launching crystal-rich black scoriae to 100-200 m height constituting a rich and impressive spectacle for both volcanologists and tourists from every part of the world. This ordinary activity has been classified in two types in relation to the their content of ash ejected. Type 1 is dominated melt ballistic particles whereas Type 2 consists of an ash-rich plume. On 18 July we recorded both explosive styles at the SW crater of Stromboli finding quite similar CO2/SO2 ratio, although we observed a higher value of SO2/HCl molar ratio for the Type 2. Moreover prior to both types of explosions the CO2 amount showed similar trend, whereas a different pattern in SO2 and in HCl gas content, was observed. In detail type 2 was preceded by decrease in SO2 and HCl amounts with respect to type 1. The decreasing trend observed before the onset of style 2 and the higher SO2/HCl ratio might be an indication of overpressure that might have induced the difference between the two types of explosions. In this context, the evidence of no change in the amount of CO2 and in CO2/SO2 ratio suggested us that this overpressure occurred in very shallow depths within the volcano feeding system. If our observations will be confirmed by other explosive event data, we will be able featuring the different source conditions triggering the ordinary explosive activity at Stromboli.

  20. The extimated presence of differentiated higly explosive magmas beneath Vesuvius and Campi Flegrei: evidence from geochemical and textural studies.

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pappalardo, Lucia; Mastrolorenzo, Giuseppe

    2010-05-01

    Highly catastrophic explosive eruptions are supplied by Si-rich magmas, generated at shallower level in crust by the evolution of mantle liquids. The timescale of these evolution processes is a crucial factor, because of its control on the length of volcano repose interval leading to high explosive events. Campi Flegrei and Somma-Vesuvius alkaline volcanic systems, located respectively at few kilometers west and east of Neapolitan metropolitan area, produced a variety of eruptions ranging from not explosive lava flows and domes to highly destructive eruptions. Both these high risk volcanoes are in repose time since the last eruption occurred in the 1538 and 1944 BP, respectively. Since that time, the volcanoes experienced fumarolic activity, low level of seismicity with rare earthquakes swarms, as well as two bradyseismic crisis (1969-1972 and 1982-1984) localized in the center of Campi Flegrei caldera, that generated a net uplift of 3.5 m around the town of Pozzuoli. A wide low velocity layer interpreted as an extended magmatic body has been detected at 8-10 km depth beneath these volcanoes by seismic data. The capability of this reservoir to erupt explosively again strongly depends on magma differentiation degree, therefore the knowledge of the time lapse necessary at not explosive mafic liquids to differentiate toward explosive magmas is very crucial to predict the size of a possible short-term future eruption in Campanian area. Our petrologic data indicate that a multi-depth supply system was active under the Campanian Plain since 39 ka. Fractional crystallization during magma cooling associated with upward migration of less dense evolved liquids appears to be the prevalent differentiation process. Our results indicate that huge steam exolution occurred during the late stage of trachyte and phonolite crystallization thus accounting for the high Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) of eruptions supplied by these melts. Moreover our CSD data on phenocrysts reveal rapid crystallization and differentiation time for alkaline Campanian magmas (in the order of decades to few centuries). This evidence implies that the 400 km2 partial melting zone detected by tomography study at 8-10 km depth beneath Vesuvius and Campi Flegrei, should consist of differentiated magma already capable to produce also large scale (plinian) explosive events in case of renewal of the activity from the present closed-conduit state.

  1. What factors control the superficial lava dome explosivity?

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Boudon, Georges; Balcone-Boissard, Hélène; Villemant, Benoit; Morgan, Daniel J.

    2015-04-01

    Dome-forming eruption is a frequent eruptive style; lava domes result from intermittent, slow extrusion of viscous lava. Most dome-forming eruptions produce highly microcrystallized and highly- to almost totally-degassed magmas which have a low explosive potential. During lava dome growth, recurrent collapses of unstable parts are the main destructive process of the lava dome, generating concentrated pyroclastic density currents (C-PDC) channelized in valleys. These C-PDC have a high, but localized, damage potential that largely depends on the collapsed volume. Sometimes, a dilute ash cloud surge develops at the top of the concentrated flow with an increased destructive effect because it may overflow ridges and affect larger areas. In some cases, large lava dome collapses can induce a depressurization of the magma within the conduit, leading to vulcanian explosions. By contrast, violent, laterally directed, explosions may occur at the base of a growing lava dome: this activity generates dilute and turbulent, highly-destructive, pyroclastic density currents (D-PDC), with a high velocity and propagation poorly dependent on the topography. Numerous studies on lava dome behaviors exist, but the triggering of lava dome explosions is poorly understood. Here, seven dome-forming eruptions are investigated: in the Lesser Antilles arc: Montagne Pelée, Martinique (1902-1905, 1929-1932 and 650 y. BP eruptions), Soufrière Hills, Montserrat; in Guatemala, Santiaguito (1929 eruption); in La Chaîne des Puys, France (Puy de Dome and Puy Chopine eruptions). We propose a new model of superficial lava-dome explosivity based upon a textural and geochemical study (vesicularity, microcrystallinity, cristobalite distribution, residual water contents, crystal transit times) of clasts produced by these key eruptions. Superficial explosion of a growing lava dome may be promoted through porosity reduction caused by both vesicle flattening due to gas escape and syn-eruptive cristobalite precipitation. Both processes generate an impermeable and rigid carapace allowing overpressurisation of the inner parts of the lava dome by the rapid input of vesiculated magma batches. The thickness of the cristobalite-rich carapace is an inverse function of the external lava dome surface area. Thus the probability of a superficial lava dome explosion inversely depends on its size; explosive activity more likely occurs at the onset of the lava dome extrusion in agreement with observations. We evidence a two-step process in magma ascent with edification of the lava dome that may be accompanied by a rapid ascent of an undegassed batch of magma some days prior the explosive activity. This new result is of interest for the whole volcanological community and for risk management.

  2. Explosives Removal from Munitions Wastewaters

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1975-01-01

    activated carbon columns. Waste water, for the study was drawn as needed from the effluent of the i diatomaceous earth filters and stored in an 800-gallon...explosive Laterials, such as DNT and nitrocresols, from waste streams. The loaded adsorbent can be regenerated with solvent. To minimize operating costs...most effective is fixed-bed adsorption followir.nI clarification and filtration to remove suspended j solids. Activated carbon adsorbent is used at a

  3. Littoral hydrovolcanic explosions: A case study of lava-seawater interaction at Kilauea Volcano

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Mattox, T.N.; Mangan, M.T.

    1997-01-01

    A variety of hydrovolcanic explosions may occur as basaltic lava flows into the ocean. Observations and measurements were made during a two-year span of unusually explosive littoral activity as tube-fed pahoehoe from Kilauea Volcano inundated the southeast coastline of the island of Hawai'i. Our observations suggest that explosive interactions require high entrance fluxes (??? 4 m3/s) and are most often initiated by collapse of a developing lava delta. Two types of interactions were observed. "Open mixing" of lava and seawater occurred when delta collapse exposed the mouth of a severed lava tube or incandescent fault scarp to wave action. The ensuing explosions produced unconsolidated deposits of glassy lava fragments or lithic debris. Interactions under "confined mixing" conditions occurred when a lava tube situated at or below sea level fractured. Explosions ruptured the roof of the tube and produced circular mounds of welded spatter. We estimate a water/rock mass ratio of 0.15 for the most common type of littoral explosion and a kinetic energy release of 0.07-1.3 kJ/kg for the range of events witnessed.

  4. Time-sequenced X-ray Observation of a Thermal Explosion

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

    Tringe, J W; Molitoris, J D; Smilowitz, L

    The evolution of a thermally-initiated explosion is studied using a multiple-image x-ray system. HMX-based PBX 9501 is used in this work, enabling direct comparison to recently-published data obtained with proton radiography [1]. Multiple x-ray images of the explosion are obtained with image spacing of ten microseconds or more. The explosion is simultaneously characterized with a high-speed camera using an interframe spacing of 11 {micro}s. X-ray and camera images were both initiated passively by signals from an embedded thermocouple array, as opposed to being actively triggered by a laser pulse or other external source. X-ray images show an accelerating reacting frontmore » within the explosive, and also show unreacted explosive at the time the containment vessel bursts. High-speed camera images show debris ejected from the vessel expanding at 800-2100 m/s in the first tens of {micro}s after the container wall failure. The effective center of the initiation volume is about 6 mm from the geometric center of the explosive.« less

  5. 3-D Velocimetry of Strombolian Explosions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Taddeucci, J.; Gaudin, D.; Orr, T. R.; Scarlato, P.; Houghton, B. F.; Del Bello, E.

    2014-12-01

    Using two synchronized high-speed cameras we were able to reconstruct the three-dimensional displacement and velocity field of bomb-sized pyroclasts in Strombolian explosions at Stromboli Volcano. Relatively low-intensity Strombolian-style activity offers a rare opportunity to observe volcanic processes that remain hidden from view during more violent explosive activity. Such processes include the ejection and emplacement of bomb-sized clasts along pure or drag-modified ballistic trajectories, in-flight bomb collision, and gas liberation dynamics. High-speed imaging of Strombolian activity has already opened new windows for the study of the abovementioned processes, but to date has only utilized two-dimensional analysis with limited motion detection and ability to record motion towards or away from the observer. To overcome this limitation, we deployed two synchronized high-speed video cameras at Stromboli. The two cameras, located sixty meters apart, filmed Strombolian explosions at 500 and 1000 frames per second and with different resolutions. Frames from the two cameras were pre-processed and combined into a single video showing frames alternating from one to the other camera. Bomb-sized pyroclasts were then manually identified and tracked in the combined video, together with fixed reference points located as close as possible to the vent. The results from manual tracking were fed to a custom software routine that, knowing the relative position of the vent and cameras, and the field of view of the latter, provided the position of each bomb relative to the reference points. By tracking tens of bombs over five to ten frames at different intervals during one explosion, we were able to reconstruct the three-dimensional evolution of the displacement and velocity fields of bomb-sized pyroclasts during individual Strombolian explosions. Shifting jet directivity and dispersal angle clearly appear from the three-dimensional analysis.

  6. Fundamental changes in the activity of the natrocarbonatite volcano Oldoinyo Lengai, Tanzania

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Kervyn, M.; Ernst, G.G.J.; Keller, J.; Vaughan, R. Greg; Klaudius, J.; Pradal, E.; Belton, F.; Mattsson, H.B.; Mbede, E.; Jacobs, P.M.

    2010-01-01

    On September 4, 2007, after 25 years of effusive natrocarbonatite eruptions, the eruptive activity of Oldoinyo Lengai (OL), N Tanzania, changed abruptly to episodic explosive eruptions. This transition was preceded by a voluminous lava eruption in March 2006, a year of quiescence, resumption of natrocarbonatite eruptions in June 2007, and a volcano-tectonic earthquake swarm in July 2007. Despite the lack of ground-based monitoring, the evolution in OL eruption dynamics is documented based on the available field observations, ASTER and MODIS satellite images, and almost-daily photos provided by local pilots. Satellite data enabled identification of a phase of voluminous lava effusion in the 2 weeks prior to the onset of explosive eruptions. After the onset, the activity varied from 100 m high ash jets to 2–15 km high violent, steady or unsteady, eruption columns dispersing ash to 100 km distance. The explosive eruptions built up a ∼400 m wide, ∼75 m high intra-crater pyroclastic cone. Time series data for eruption column height show distinct peaks at the end of September 2007 and February 2008, the latter being associated with the first pyroclastic flows to be documented at OL. Chemical analyses of the erupted products, presented in a companion paper (Keller et al.2010), show that the 2007–2008 explosive eruptions are associated with an undersaturated carbonated silicate melt. This new phase of explosive eruptions provides constraints on the factors causing the transition from natrocarbonatite effusive eruptions to explosive eruptions of carbonated nephelinite magma, observed repetitively in the last 100 years at OL.

  7. An early and late peak in microglial activation in Alzheimer's disease trajectory.

    PubMed

    Fan, Zhen; Brooks, David J; Okello, Aren; Edison, Paul

    2017-03-01

    Amyloid-β deposition, neuroinflammation and tau tangle formation all play a significant role in Alzheimer's disease. We hypothesized that there is microglial activation early on in Alzheimer's disease trajectory, where in the initial phase, microglia may be trying to repair the damage, while later on in the disease these microglia could be ineffective and produce proinflammatory cytokines leading to progressive neuronal damage. In this longitudinal study, we have evaluated the temporal profile of microglial activation and its relationship between fibrillar amyloid load at baseline and follow-up in subjects with mild cognitive impairment, and this was compared with subjects with Alzheimer's disease. Thirty subjects (eight mild cognitive impairment, eight Alzheimer's disease and 14 controls) aged between 54 and 77 years underwent 11C-(R)PK11195, 11C-PIB positron emission tomography and magnetic resonance imaging scans. Patients were followed-up after 14 ± 4 months. Region of interest and Statistical Parametric Mapping analysis were used to determine longitudinal alterations. Single subject analysis was performed to evaluate the individualized pathological changes over time. Correlations between levels of microglial activation and amyloid deposition at a voxel level were assessed using Biological Parametric Mapping. We demonstrated that both baseline and follow-up microglial activation in the mild cognitive impairment cohort compared to controls were increased by 41% and 21%, respectively. There was a longitudinal reduction of 18% in microglial activation in mild cognitive impairment cohort over 14 months, which was associated with a mild elevation in fibrillar amyloid load. Cortical clusters of microglial activation and amyloid deposition spatially overlapped in the subjects with mild cognitive impairment. Baseline microglial activation was increased by 36% in Alzheimer's disease subjects compared with controls. Longitudinally, Alzheimer's disease subjects showed an increase in microglial activation. In conclusion, this is one of the first longitudinal positron emission tomography studies evaluating longitudinal changes in microglial activation in mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease subjects. We found there is an initial longitudinal reduction in microglial activation in subjects with mild cognitive impairment, while subjects with Alzheimer's disease showed an increase in microglial activation. This could reflect that activated microglia in mild cognitive impairment initially may adopt a protective activation phenotype, which later change to a cidal pro-inflammatory phenotype as disease progresses and amyloid clearance fails. Thus, we speculate that there might be two peaks of microglial activation in the Alzheimer's disease trajectory; an early protective peak and a later pro-inflammatory peak. If so, anti-microglial agents targeting the pro-inflammatory phenotype would be most beneficial in the later stages of the disease. © The Author (2017). Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Guarantors of Brain. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

  8. From Vulcanian explosions to sustained explosive eruptions: The role of diffusive mass transfer in conduit flow dynamics

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mason, R. M.; Starostin, A. B.; Melnik, O. E.; Sparks, R. S. J.

    2006-05-01

    Magmatic explosive eruptions are influenced by mass transfer processes of gas diffusion into bubbles caused by decompression. Melnik and Sparks [Melnik, O.E., Sparks, R.S.J. 2002, Modelling of conduit flow dynamic during explosive activity at Soufriere Hills Volcano, Montserrat. In: Druitt, T.H., Kokelaar, B.P. (eds). The Eruption of Soufriere Hills Volcano, Montserrat, from 1995 to 1999. Geological Society, London, Memoirs, 21, 307-317] proposed two end member cases corresponding to complete equilibrium and complete disequilibrium. In the first case, diffusion is fast enough to maintain the system near equilibrium and a long-lived explosive eruption develops. In the latter case, pre-existing bubbles expand under conditions of explosive eruption and decompression, but diffusive gas transfer is negligible. This leads to a much shorter eruption. Here we develop this model to consider the role of mass transfer by investigating transient flows at the start of an explosive eruption triggered by a sudden decompression. The simulations reveal a spectrum of behaviours from sustained to short-lived highly non-equilibrium Vulcanian-style explosions lasting a few tens of seconds, through longer lasting eruptions that can be sustained for tens of minutes and finally to eruptions that can last hours or even days. Behaviour is controlled by a mass-transfer parameter, ω, which equals n*2/3D, where n* is the bubble number density and D is the diffusivity. The parameter ω is expected to vary between 10 - 5 and 1 s - 1 in nature and reflects a time-scale for efficient diffusion. The spectrum of model behaviours is consistent with variations in styles of explosive eruptions of silicic volcanoes. In the initial stages peak discharges occur over 10-20 s and then decline to low discharges. If a critical bubble overpressure is assumed to be the criterion for fragmentation then fragmentation may stop and start several times in the declining period causing several pulses of high-intensity discharge. For the cases of strong disequilibria, the fluxes can decrease to negligible values where other processes, such as gas escape through permeable magma, prevents explosive conditions becoming re-established so that explosive activity stops and dome growth can start. For cases closer to the equilibrium the eruption can evolve towards a quasi-steady sustained flow, never declining sufficiently for gas escape to become dominant.

  9. Acoustic wavefield and Mach wave radiation of flashing arcs in strombolian explosion measured by image luminance

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Genco, Riccardo; Ripepe, Maurizio; Marchetti, Emanuele; Bonadonna, Costanza; Biass, Sebastien

    2014-10-01

    Explosive activity often generates visible flashing arcs in the volcanic plume considered as the evidence of the shock-front propagation induced by supersonic dynamics. High-speed image processing is used to visualize the pressure wavefield associated with flashing arcs observed in strombolian explosions. Image luminance is converted in virtual acoustic signal compatible with the signal recorded by pressure transducer. Luminance variations are moving with a spherical front at a 344.7 m/s velocity. Flashing arcs travel at the sound speed already 14 m above the vent and are not necessarily the evidence of a supersonic explosive dynamics. However, seconds later, the velocity of small fragments increases, and the spherical acousto-luminance wavefront becomes planar recalling the Mach wave radiation generated by large scale turbulence in high-speed jet. This planar wavefront forms a Mach angle of 55° with the explosive jet axis, suggesting an explosive dynamics moving at Mo = 1.22 Mach number.

  10. Fluorescence based explosive detection: from mechanisms to sensory materials.

    PubMed

    Sun, Xiangcheng; Wang, Ying; Lei, Yu

    2015-11-21

    The detection of explosives is one of the current pressing concerns in global security. In the past few decades, a large number of emissive sensing materials have been developed for the detection of explosives in vapor, solution, and solid states through fluorescence methods. In recent years, great efforts have been devoted to develop new fluorescent materials with various sensing mechanisms for detecting explosives in order to achieve super-sensitivity, ultra-selectivity, as well as fast response time. This review article starts with a brief introduction on various sensing mechanisms for fluorescence based explosive detection, and then summarizes in an exhaustive and systematic way the state-of-the-art of fluorescent materials for explosive detection with a focus on the research in the recent 5 years. A wide range of fluorescent materials, such as conjugated polymers, small fluorophores, supramolecular systems, bio-inspired materials and aggregation induced emission-active materials, and their sensing performance and sensing mechanism are the centerpiece of this review. Finally, conclusions and future outlook are presented and discussed.

  11. Understanding the shock and detonation response of high explosives at the continuum and meso scales

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Handley, C. A.; Lambourn, B. D.; Whitworth, N. J.; James, H. R.; Belfield, W. J.

    2018-03-01

    The shock and detonation response of high explosives has been an active research topic for more than a century. In recent years, high quality data from experiments using embedded gauges and other diagnostic techniques have inspired the development of a range of new high-fidelity computer models for explosives. The experiments and models have led to new insights, both at the continuum scale applicable to most shock and detonation experiments, and at the mesoscale relevant to hotspots and burning within explosive microstructures. This article reviews the continuum and mesoscale models, and their application to explosive phenomena, gaining insights to aid future model development and improved understanding of the physics of shock initiation and detonation propagation. In particular, it is argued that "desensitization" and the effect of porosity on high explosives can both be explained by the combined effect of thermodynamics and hydrodynamics, rather than the traditional hotspot-based explanations linked to pressure-dependent reaction rates.

  12. High explosive spot test analyses of samples from Operable Unit (OU) 1111

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

    McRae, D.; Haywood, W.; Powell, J.

    1995-01-01

    A preliminary evaluation has been completed of environmental contaminants at selected sites within the Group DX-10 (formally Group M-7) area. Soil samples taken from specific locations at this detonator facility were analyzed for harmful metals and screened for explosives. A sanitary outflow, a burn pit, a pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN) production outflow field, an active firing chamber, an inactive firing chamber, and a leach field were sampled. Energy dispersive x-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) was used to obtain semi-quantitative concentrations of metals in the soil. Two field spot-test kits for explosives were used to assess the presence of energetic materials in the soilmore » and in items found at the areas tested. PETN is the major explosive in detonators manufactured and destroyed at Los Alamos. No measurable amounts of PETN or other explosives were detected in the soil, but items taken from the burn area and a high-energy explosive (HE)/chemical sump were contaminated. The concentrations of lead, mercury, and uranium are given.« less

  13. Protomagnetar and black hole formation in high-mass stars

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Obergaulinger, M.; Aloy, M. Á.

    2017-07-01

    Using axisymmetric simulations coupling special relativistic magnetohydrodynamics (MHD), an approximate post-Newtonian gravitational potential and two-moment neutrino transport, we show different paths for the formation of either protomagnetars or stellar mass black holes. The fraction of prototypical stellar cores which should result in collapsars depends on a combination of several factors, among which the structure of the progenitor star and the profile of specific angular momentum are probably the foremost. Along with the implosion of the stellar core, we also obtain supernova-like explosions driven by neutrino heating and hydrodynamic instabilities or by magneto-rotational effects in cores of high-mass stars. In the latter case, highly collimated, mildly relativistic outflows are generated. We find that after a rather long post-collapse phase (lasting ≳1 s) black holes may form in cases both of successful and failed supernova-like explosions. A basic trend is that cores with a specific angular momentum smaller than that obtained by standard, one-dimensional stellar evolution calculations form black holes (and eventually collapsars). Complementary, protomagnetars result from stellar cores with the standard distribution of specific angular momentum obtained from prototypical stellar evolution calculations including magnetic torques and moderate to large mass-loss rates.

  14. Revealing the supernova-gamma-ray burst connection with TeV neutrinos.

    PubMed

    Ando, Shin'ichiro; Beacom, John F

    2005-08-05

    Gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) are rare, powerful explosions displaying highly relativistic jets. It has been suggested that a significant fraction of the much more frequent core-collapse supernovae are accompanied by comparably energetic but mildly relativistic jets, which would indicate an underlying supernova-GRB connection. We calculate the neutrino spectra from the decays of pions and kaons produced in jets in supernovae, and show that the kaon contribution is dominant and provides a sharp break near 20 TeV, which is a sensitive probe of the conditions inside the jet. For a supernova at 10 Mpc, 30 events above 100 GeV are expected in a 10 s burst in the IceCube detector.

  15. Lightning and electrical activity during the Shiveluch volcano eruption on 16 November 2014

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shevtsov, Boris M.; Firstov, Pavel P.; Cherneva, Nina V.; Holzworth, Robert H.; Akbashev, Renat R.

    2016-03-01

    According to World Wide Lightning Location Network (WWLLN) data, a sequence of lightning discharges was detected which occurred in the area of the explosive eruption of Shiveluch volcano on 16 November 2014 in Kamchatka. Information on the ash cloud motion was confirmed by the measurements of atmospheric electricity, satellite observations and meteorological and seismic data. It was concluded that WWLLN resolution is enough to detect the earlier stage of volcanic explosive eruption when electrification processes develop the most intensively. The lightning method has the undeniable advantage for the fast remote sensing of volcanic electric activity anywhere in the world. There is a good opportunity for the development of WWLLN technology to observe explosive volcanic eruptions.

  16. Magnetic Reconfiguration in Explosive Solar Activity

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Antiochos, Spiro K.

    2008-01-01

    A fundamental property of the Sun's corona i s that it is violently dynamic. The most spectacular and most energetic manifestations of this activity are the giant disruptions that give rise to coronal mass ejections (CME) and eruptive flares. These major events are of critical importance, because they drive the most destructive forms of space weather at Earth and in the solar system, and they provide a unique opportunity to study, in revealing detail, the interaction of magnetic field and matter, in particular, magnetohydrodynamic instability and nonequilibrium -- processes that are at the heart of laboratory and astrophysical plasma physics. Recent observations by a number of NASA space missions have given us new insights into the physical mechanisms that underlie coronal explosions. Furthermore, massively-parallel computation have now allowed us to calculate fully three-dimensional models for solar activity. In this talk I will present some of the latest observations of the Sun, including those from the just-launched Hinode and STEREO mission, and discuss recent advances in the theory and modeling of explosive solar activity.

  17. Radioactivity in trinitite six decades later.

    PubMed

    Parekh, Pravin P; Semkow, Thomas M; Torres, Miguel A; Haines, Douglas K; Cooper, Joseph M; Rosenberg, Peter M; Kitto, Michael E

    2006-01-01

    The first nuclear explosion test, named the Trinity test, was conducted on July 16, 1945 near Alamogordo, New Mexico. In the tremendous heat of the explosion, the radioactive debris fused with the local soil into a glassy material named Trinitite. Selected Trinitite samples from ground zero (GZ) of the test site were investigated in detail for radioactivity. The techniques used included alpha spectrometry, high-efficiency gamma-ray spectrometry, and low-background beta counting, following the radiochemistry for selected radionuclides. Specific activities were determined for fission products (90Sr, 137Cs), activation products (60Co, 133Ba, 152Eu, 154Eu, 238Pu, 241Pu), and the remnants of the nuclear fuel (239Pu, 240Pu). Additionally, specific activities of three natural radionuclides (40K, 232Th, 238U) and their progeny were measured. The determined specific activities of radionuclides and their relationships are interpreted in the context of the fission process, chemical behavior of the elements, as well as the nuclear explosion phenomenology.

  18. Isotopic signature of atmospheric xenon released from light water reactors.

    PubMed

    Kalinowski, Martin B; Pistner, Christoph

    2006-01-01

    A global monitoring system for atmospheric xenon radioactivity is being established as part of the International Monitoring System to verify compliance with the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT). The isotopic activity ratios of (135)Xe, (133m)Xe, (133)Xe and (131m)Xe are of interest for distinguishing nuclear explosion sources from civilian releases. Simulations of light water reactor (LWR) fuel burn-up through three operational reactor power cycles are conducted to explore the possible xenon isotopic signature of nuclear reactor releases under different operational conditions. It is studied how ratio changes are related to various parameters including the neutron flux, uranium enrichment and fuel burn-up. Further, the impact of diffusion and mixing on the isotopic activity ratio variability are explored. The simulations are validated with reported reactor emissions. In addition, activity ratios are calculated for xenon isotopes released from nuclear explosions and these are compared to the reactor ratios in order to determine whether the discrimination of explosion releases from reactor effluents is possible based on isotopic activity ratios.

  19. Cubanes: Super explosives and potential pharmaceutical intermediates

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Bashir-Hashemi, A.

    1994-01-01

    The cubane molecule, in which eight carbon atoms are locked in a cubic framework, shows great potential for both military and pharmaceutical applications. Octanitrocubane, with a predicted density of 2.1 g/cc and strain energy of more than 165 kcal/mol, is considered to be the 'super-explosive', while cubane derivatives submitted to the National Institutes of Health for preliminary biological activity screening have displayed promising anti-cancer and anti-HIV activity.

  20. Blast waves from violent explosive activity at Yasur Volcano, Vanuatu

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Marchetti, E.; Ripepe, M.; Delle Donne, D.; Genco, R.; Finizola, A.; Garaebiti, E.

    2013-11-01

    and seismic waveforms were collected during violent strombolian activity at Yasur Volcano (Vanuatu). Averaging ~3000 seismic events showed stable waveforms, evidencing a low-frequency (0.1-0.3 Hz) signal preceding ~5-6 s the explosion. Infrasonic waveforms were mostly asymmetric with a sharp compressive (5-106 Pa) onset, followed by a small long-lasting rarefaction phase. Regardless of the pressure amplitude, the ratio between the positive and negative phases was constant. These waveform characteristics closely resembled blast waves. Infrared imagery showed an apparent cold spherical front ~20 m thick, which moved between 342 and 405 m/s before the explosive hot gas/fragments cloud. We interpret this cold front as that produced by the vapor condensation induced by the passage of the shock front. We suggest that violent strombolian activity at Yasur was driven by supersonic dynamics with gas expanding at 1.1 Mach number inside the conduit.

  1. Serum thymulin in human zinc deficiency.

    PubMed Central

    Prasad, A S; Meftah, S; Abdallah, J; Kaplan, J; Brewer, G J; Bach, J F; Dardenne, M

    1988-01-01

    The activity of thymulin (a thymic hormone) is dependent on the presence of zinc in the molecule. We assayed serum thymulin activity in three models of mildly zinc-deficient (ZD) human subjects before and after zinc supplementation: (a) two human volunteers in whom a specific and mild zinc deficiency was induced by dietary means; (b) six mildly ZD adult sickle cell anemia (SCA) subjects; and (c) six mildly ZD adult non-SCA subjects. Their plasma zinc levels were normal and they showed no overt clinical manifestations of zinc deficiency. The diagnosis of mild zinc deficiency was based on the assay of zinc in lymphocytes, granulocytes, and platelets. Serum thymulin activity was decreased as a result of mild zinc deficiency and was corrected by in vivo and in vitro zinc supplementation, suggesting that this parameter was a sensitive indicator of zinc deficiency in humans. An increase in T101-, sIg-cells, decrease in T4+/T8+ ratio, and decreased IL 2 activity were observed in the experimental human model during the zinc depletion phase, all of which were corrected after repletion with zinc. Similar changes in lymphocyte subpopulation, correctable with zinc supplementation, were also observed in mildly ZD SCA subjects. Inasmuch as thymulin is known to induce intra- and extrathymic T cell differentiation, our studies provide a possible mechanism for the role of zinc on T cell functions. Images PMID:3262625

  2. Relaxed structure of typical nitro explosives in the excited state: Observation, implication and application

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chu, Genbai; Yang, Zuhua; Xi, Tao; Xin, Jianting; Zhao, Yongqiang; He, Weihua; Shui, Min; Gu, Yuqiu; Xiong, Ying; Xu, Tao

    2018-04-01

    Understanding the structural, geometrical, and chemical changes that occur after an electronic excitation is essential to elucidate the inherent mechanism of nitro explosives. Herein, relaxed structures of typical nitro explosives in the lowest singlet excited state are investigated using time-dependent density functional theory. During the excitation process, the nitro group is activated and relaxes via geometrical change. The five explosives RDX, HMX, CL-20, PETN, and LLM-105 exhibit similar relaxed structures, and the impact sensitivity is related to their excitation energy. High-sensitivity δ-HMX has a lower excitation energy for relaxed structure than β-HMX. This study offers novel insight into energetic materials.

  3. SO2 emissions at Semeru volcano, Indonesia: Characterization and quantification of persistent and periodic explosive activity

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Smekens, Jean-François; Clarke, Amanda B.; Burton, Michael R.; Harijoko, Agung; Wibowo, Haryo E.

    2015-07-01

    We present the first measurements of SO2 emissions at Semeru volcano, Indonesia, using an SO2 camera. Activity at Semeru is characterized by quiescent degassing interspersed with short-lived explosive events with low ash burden. The interval between explosions was measured at 32.1 ± 15.7 min in a webcam survey of the volcano between the months of June and December 2013. We distinguish between two types of events: shorter events (type I: 5 min duration) with emissions returning quickly to baseline levels, and longer events (type II: 15 min duration) often showing multiple pulses and a longer period of increased emissions before a return to quiescent levels. Type I events represent > 90% of the activity and release an average of 200-500 kg of SO2 per event. The single type II event we documented with the SO2 camera released a total of 1460 kg of SO2. We estimate the daily average emissions of Semeru to be 21-71 t d- 1 of SO2, amounting to a yearly output of 8-26 Gg (8000-26,000 metric tons), with 35-65% released during explosive events. The time series patterns of degassing are consistent with the existence of a viscous plug at the top of the conduit, which seals the conduit immediately prior to explosive events, causing pressurization of the underlying magma followed by a sudden release of gas and fragmented magma.

  4. Active sampling technique to enhance chemical signature of buried explosives

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lovell, John S.; French, Patrick D.

    2004-09-01

    Deminers and dismounted countermine engineers commonly use metal detectors, ground penetrating radar and probes to locate mines. Many modern landmines have a very low metal content, which severely limits the effectiveness of metal detectors. Canines have also been used for landmine detection for decades. Experiments have shown that canines smell the explosives which are known to leak from most types of landmines. The fact that dogs can detect landmines indicates that vapor sensing is a viable approach to landmine detection. Several groups are currently developing systems to detect landmines by "sniffing" for the ultra-trace explosive vapors above the soil. The amount of material that is available to passive vapor sensing systems is limited to no more than the vapor in equilibrium with the explosive related chemicals (ERCs) distributed in the surface soils over and near the landmine. The low equilibrium vapor pressure of TNT in the soil/atmosphere boundary layer and the limited volume of the boundary layer air imply that passive chemical vapor sensing systems require sensitivities in the picogram range, or lower. ADA is working to overcome many of the limitations of passive sampling methods, by the use of an active sampling method that employs a high-powered (1,200+ joules) strobe lamp to create a highly amplified plume of vapor and/or ERC-bearing fine particulates. Initial investigations have demonstrated that this approach can amplify the detectability of TNT by two or three orders of magnitude. This new active sampling technique could be used with any suitable explosive sensor.

  5. Mapping of explosive contamination using GC/chemiluminescence and ion mobility spectrometry techniques

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Miller, Carla J.; Glenn, D. F.; Hartenstein, Steven D.; Hallowell, Susan F.

    1998-12-01

    Recent efforts at the Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory (INEEL) have included mapping explosive contamination resulting from manufacturing and carrying improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Two types of trace detection equipment were used to determine levels of contamination from designated sampling areas. A total of twenty IEDs were constructed: ten using TNT and ten using C-4. Two test scenarios were used. The first scenario tracked the activities of a manufacturer who straps the device onto an independent courier. The courier then performed a series of activities to simulate waiting in an airport. The second scenario tracked the activities of a manufacturer who also served as the courier. A sample set for each test consisted of thirty samples from various locations on each IED manufacturer, thirty from each IED courier, twenty-five from the manufacturing area, and twenty-five from the courier area. Pre-samples and post-samples were collected for analysis with each detection technique. Samples analyzed by gc/chemiluminescence were taken by swiping a teflon- coated sampling swipe across the surface of the sampling area to pick up any explosive particles. Samples analyzed by ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) were taken from the clothing of the manufacturer and courier by vacuuming the surface and collecting particulates on a fiberglass filter. Samples for IMS analysis from the manufacturing and courier rooms were taken by wiping a cotton sampling swipe across the surface area. Currently, building IEDs and monitoring the explosive contamination is being directed toward detection with portal monitors.

  6. 77 FR 15393 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comments Requested: Firearms...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-03-15

    ... Services Division Customer Service Survey ACTION: 30-Day notice of information collection. The Department.... (2) Title of the Form/Collection: Firearms & Explosives Services Division Customer Service Survey. (3... firearms and explosives industry. This anonymous survey would allow FESD to gauge customer satisfaction and...

  7. 50 CFR 218.30 - Specified activity and specified geographical area and effective dates.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ...) Underwater Explosives: (A) MK-83 (1,000 lb High Explosive bomb); (B) MK3A2 anti-swimmer concussion grenades... Training with MK3A2 anti-swimmer concussion grenades—up to 30 events over the course of 5 years (an average...

  8. Kamchatka and North Kurile Volcano Explosive Eruptions in 2015 and Danger to Aviation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Girina, Olga; Melnikov, Dmitry; Manevich, Alexander; Demyanchuk, Yury; Nuzhdaev, Anton; Petrova, Elena

    2016-04-01

    There are 36 active volcanoes in the Kamchatka and North Kurile, and several of them are continuously active. In 2015, four of the Kamchatkan volcanoes (Sheveluch, Klyuchevskoy, Karymsky and Zhupanovsky) and two volcanoes of North Kurile (Alaid and Chikurachki) had strong and moderate explosive eruptions. Moderate gas-steam activity was observing of Bezymianny, Kizimen, Avachinsky, Koryaksky, Gorely, Mutnovsky and other volcanoes. Strong explosive eruptions of volcanoes are the most dangerous for aircraft because they can produce in a few hours or days to the atmosphere and the stratosphere till several cubic kilometers of volcanic ash and aerosols. Ash plumes and the clouds, depending on the power of the eruption, the strength and wind speed, can travel thousands of kilometers from the volcano for several days, remaining hazardous to aircraft, as the melting temperature of small particles of ash below the operating temperature of jet engines. The eruptive activity of Sheveluch volcano began since 1980 (growth of the lava dome) and is continuing at present. Strong explosive events of the volcano occurred in 2015: on 07, 12, and 15 January, 01, 17, and 28 February, 04, 08, 16, 21-22, and 26 March, 07 and 12 April: ash plumes rose up to 7-12 km a.s.l. and extended more 900 km to the different directions of the volcano. Ashfalls occurred at Ust'-Kamchatsk on 16 March, and Klyuchi on 30 October. Strong and moderate hot avalanches from the lava dome were observing more often in the second half of the year. Aviation color code of Sheveluch was Orange during the year. Activity of the volcano was dangerous to international and local aviation. Explosive-effusive eruption of Klyuchevskoy volcano lasted from 01 January till 24 March. Strombolian explosive volcanic activity began from 01 January, and on 08-09 January a lava flow was detected at the Apakhonchich chute on the southeastern flank of the volcano. Vulcanian activity of the volcano began from 10 January. Ashfalls occurred on 11 and 28 January, and 07 February at Kozyrevsk; and on 21 and 27 January, 05, 11, and 13-16 February at Klyuchi. Paroxysmal phase of the eruption displayed on 15 February: explosions sent ash up to 8 km a.s.l. during five hours, ash plumes drifted for about 1000 km mainly to the eastern directions of the volcano. A thermal anomaly began to noting at satellite images again from 28 August; and it was registering time to time till 31 December. Aviation color code of the volcano was Yellow on 01-11 January; Orange from 11 January to 15 February; Red on 15 February; Orange from 15 February to 25 March; Yellow from 25 March till 06 April; Green on 06-14 April; Yellow on 14-18 April; Orange on 18-26 April; Yellow from 26 April to 05 May; Orange on 05-13 May; Yellow from 13 May to 20 July; Green from 20 July to 28 August; Yellow from 28 August to 31 December. Activity of the volcano was dangerous to international and local aviation. Karymsky volcano has been in a state of explosive eruption since 1996. The moderate ash explosions of this volcano were noting during the year, ash plumes rose up to 5 km a.s.l. and extended more 300 km mainly to the eastern directions of the volcano. Aviation color code of the volcano was Orange during the year. Activity of the volcano was dangerous to local aviation. Explosive eruption of Zhupanovsky volcano began on 06 June, 2014, and finished 30 November, 2015. Explosions sent ash up to 8-11 km a.s.l. on 07-08 and 25 March, 12 July, and 30 November; and in the other days - up to 3.5-6 km a.s.l. Ash plumes extended for about 1200 km mainly to the eastern directions of the volcano. In the periods from 26 January to 06 February, 09-15 February, 23 February - 01 March, from 25 March to 03 April, from 04 April to 20 May, from 21 May to 08 June, from 16 June to 12 July, from 15 July to 27 November, the volcano was in a state of relative calm. The culminations of the 2014-2015 eruption of the volcano were explosions and collapses of parts of Priemysh active cone on 12 and 14 July, and 30 November, 2015. Aviation color code of the volcano was Orange from 01 January to 16 May; Yellow from 16 May to 08 June; Orange from 08 June to 19 July; Yellow on 19-20 July; Green from 20 July to 27 November; Orange from 27 November to 10 December; Yellow on 10-17 December; and Green on 17-31 December. Activity of the volcano was dangerous to international and local aviation. The eruptive activity of Chikurachki volcano lasted on 15-19 February. First explosions sent ash up to 7.5 km a.s.l., but later ash plumes drifted on the height about 3-4 km a.s.l. from the volcano. Aviation color code of the volcano was Orange during 16-22 February, and Yellow on 22-26 February. Activity of the volcano was dangerous to local aviation. The intensive thermal anomaly over Alaid volcano was detecting at satellite images from 01 October till 31 December. Aviation color code of the volcano was Yellow during this time. A strong gas-steam activity of the volcano sometimes was observing. Activity of the volcano was dangerous to local aviation.

  9. Characteristics and petrology of the effusive-explosive activity of Colima volcano, in the years 2015-2017

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Suarez-Plascencia, C.; Nuñez-Cornu, F. J.; Arreola-Ochoa, L. C.; Suarez, G. B. V.; Carrillo-Gonzalez, D. A.

    2017-12-01

    The Colima volcano, during the years 2015-2017, presented an important effusive and explosive activity, which began in January 2015 with the growth of a dome that was destroyed by explosions, forming pyroclastic flows reaching distances of up to 2 km by the north and south flanks of the volcano. In May a new dome was extruded, forming three thick lava flows along the northern and southern slopes; the extruded volume was approximately 6 million cubic meters, with a rate in 52 days of 1.3 m3/sec. On July 11 merapi flows were formed it flowed through by the ravines of Montegrande and San Antonio, on the south and southwest flank, reaching distances of 10.4 km. The following days the activity had decreased substantially, leaving a crater of 60 m of depth and 270 m of diameter. In February 2016, a small dome occupied the central part of the main crater, and it was until September that an episode of volcanic tremor began, that was associated with its rapid growth, which in 48 hours filled the crater and formed a lava flow that descended by the south slope. By October 2, 2.3 million m3 of lava were extruded, which caused a deflation of the dome. In October 7, the volcano emitted a great amount of gases and steam of water that formed an acid rain that affected forests and crops of the south and southwest slope, causing losses by 1 million dollars. In November, a series of explosions occurred that destroyed two thirds of the dome. In January 2017, the explosive activity increased and again destroyed the dome. Five events were recorded that reached between 3 km and 4 km of height on the top of the volcano, the dispersion of the ash generally went to the northeast, reaching distances of up to 200 km. Currently the volcano is sustaining reduced seismic and fumarole activity. In 2005, 2015 and 2017, the geochemical analysis of major elements such as SiO2 from the ash emitted by the volcano showed an increase from 54.51% to 60.05% and 60.24%, respectively, which was associated with the increase in volcanic explosions, affecting and causing damages to the economic activities and the localities and settlements in its valleys and piedmont.

  10. Measuring the Progenitor Masses and Dense Circumstellar Material of Type II Supernovae

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Morozova, Viktoriya; Piro, Anthony L.; Valenti, Stefano

    2018-05-01

    Recent modeling of hydrogen-rich Type II supernova (SN II) light curves suggests the presence of dense circumstellar material (CSM) surrounding the exploding progenitor stars. This has important implications for the activity and structure of massive stars near the end of their lives. Since previous work focused on just a few events, here we expand to a larger sample of 20 well-observed SNe II. For each event we are able to constrain the progenitor zero-age main-sequence (ZAMS) mass, explosion energy, and the mass and radial extent of the dense CSM. We then study the distribution of each of these properties across the full sample of SNe. The inferred ZAMS masses are found to be largely consistent with a Salpeter distribution with minimum and maximum masses of 10.4 and 22.9 M ⊙, respectively. We also compare the individual ZAMS masses we measure with specific SNe II that have pre-explosion imaging to check their consistency. Our masses are generally comparable to or higher than the pre-explosion imaging masses, potentially helping ease the red supergiant problem. The explosion energies vary from (0.1–1.3) × 1051 erg, and for ∼70% of the SNe we obtain CSM masses in the range between 0.18 and 0.83 M ⊙. We see a potential correlation between the CSM mass and explosion energy, which suggests that pre-explosion activity has a strong impact on the structure of the star. This may be important to take into account in future studies of the ability of the neutrino mechanism to explode stars. We also see a possible correlation between the CSM radial extent and ZAMS mass, which could be related to the time with respect to explosion when the CSM is first generated.

  11. Explosions of andesitic volcanoes in Kamchatka and danger of volcanic ash clouds to aviation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gordeev, E. I.; Girina, O. A.; Neal, C. A.

    2010-12-01

    There are 30 active volcanoes in Kamchatka and 4 of them continuously active. The explosions of andesitic volcanoes (Bezymianny and Sheveluch) produce strong and fast ash plumes, which can rich high altitude (up to 15 km) in short time. Bezymianny and Sheveluch are the most active volcanoes of Kamchatka. A growth of the lava dome of Bezymianny into the explosive crater continues from 1956 till present. Nine strong explosive eruptions of the volcano associated with the dome-building activity occurred for last 5 years in: 2005, January 11 and November 30; 2006, May 09 and December 24; 2007, May 11 and October 14-15; 2008, August 19; 2009, December 16-17 and 2010, May 31. Since 1980, a lava dome of Sheveluch has being growing at the bottom of the explosive crater, which has formed as the result of the catastrophic eruption in 1964. Strong explosive eruptions of the volcano associated with the dome-building activity occurred in: 1993, April 22; 2001, May 19-21; 2004, May 09; 2005, February 27 and September 22; 2006, December 25-26; 2007, March 29 and December 19; 2009, April 26-28 and September 10-11. Strong explosive eruption of andesitic volcanoes is the most dangerous for aircraft because in a few hours or days in the atmosphere and the stratosphere can produce about several cubic kilometers of volcanic ash and aerosols. Volcanic ash is an extremely abrasive, as it consists of acute-angled rock fragments and volcanic glass. Due to the high specific surface of andesitic ash particles are capable of retaining an electrostatic charge and absorb droplets of water and corrosive acids. Ash plumes and the clouds, depending on the power of the eruption, the strength and wind speed, can travel thousands of kilometers from the volcano for several days, remaining hazardous to aircraft, as the melting temperature of small particles of ash below the operating temperature of jet engines. To reduce the risk of collision of aircraft with ash clouds of Kamchatkan volcanoes, was created the International KVERT Project, uniting scientists IVS FEB RAS, KB GS RAS and AVO USGS. To solve this problem and provide early warning of air services on the volcanic hazard, scientists analyze the data of seismic, video, visual and satellite monitoring of volcanoes of Kamchatka. In case of ash explosion, cloud or plume detection, information is sending via e-mail operatively to all interested users. Scientists collect all the information (research data, descriptions of eruptions from the literature, observations of tourists, etc.) of the active volcanoes. Based on analysis of historical activity Bezymianny, as well as its continuous monitoring data, scientists of KVERT Project repeatedly predicted the eruption of this volcano. It allowed notifying in time air services of the impending danger of aircraft. For example, in 2001-2010, were predicted 9 of its eruptions (December 16, 2001; December 25, 2002; January 11, 2005; May 9, 2006; May 11, 2007; October 14-15, 2007; August 19, 2008; December 16, 2009; May 31, 2010).

  12. 77 FR 32136 - Agency Information Collection Activities:

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-05-31

    ... Fire Safety Authority of Storage of Explosive Materials. (3) Agency form number, if any, and the... safety of emergency response personnel responding to fires at sites where explosives are stored. The information is provided both orally and in writing to the authority having jurisdiction for fire safety in the...

  13. SUPERFUND TREATABILITY CLEARINGHOUSE: INCINERATION TEST OF EXPLOSIVES CONTAMINATED SOILS AT SAVANNA ARMY DEPOT ACTIVITY, SAVANNA, ILLINOIS

    EPA Science Inventory

    The primary objective of these tests was to demonstrate the effectiveness of incineration as a decontamination method for explosives contaminated sails. A pilot-scale rotary kiln incinerator, manufactured by ThermAll, Inc., was used to treat both sandy and clayey...

  14. 77 FR 1510 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comments Requested; Firearms...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-01-10

    ... Services Division Customer Service Survey ACTION: 60-Day Notice of Information Collection. The Department... & Explosives Services Division Customer Service Survey. (3) Agency form number, if any, and the applicable... firearms and explosives industry. This anonymous survey would allow FESD to gauge customer satisfaction and...

  15. 49 CFR 172.202 - Description of hazardous material on shipping papers.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... HAZARDOUS MATERIALS TABLE, SPECIAL PROVISIONS, HAZARDOUS MATERIALS COMMUNICATIONS, EMERGENCY RESPONSE... description must be indicated (by mass or volume, or by activity for Class 7 materials) and must include an... mass. For an explosive that is an article, such as Cartridges, small arms, the net explosive mass may...

  16. 77 FR 70471 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comments Requested; Furnishing of...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-11-26

    ... importers and persons who manufacture or import explosive materials or ammonium nitrate must, when required by the Director, furnish samples of such explosive materials or ammonium nitrate; information on... to the identification of the ammonium nitrate. (5) An estimate of the total number of respondents and...

  17. 77 FR 57593 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comments Requested: Furnishing of...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-09-18

    ... import explosive materials or ammonium nitrate must, when required by the Director, furnish samples of such explosive materials or ammonium nitrate; information on chemical composition of those products... ammonium nitrate. (5) An estimate of the total number of respondents and the amount of time estimated for...

  18. Critical Homeland Infrastructure Protection

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2007-01-01

    talent. Examples include: * Detection of surveillance activities; * Stand-off detection of chemical, biological, nuclear, radiation and explosive ...Manager Guardian DARPA Overview Mr. Roger Gibbs DARPA LLNL Technologies in Support of Infrastructure Mr. Don Prosnitz LLNL Protection Sandia National...FP Antiterrorism/Force Protection CBRNE Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear Explosive CERT Commuter Emergency Response Team CIA Central

  19. What factors control superficial lava dome explosivity?

    PubMed

    Boudon, Georges; Balcone-Boissard, Hélène; Villemant, Benoît; Morgan, Daniel J

    2015-09-30

    Dome-forming eruption is a frequent eruptive style and a major hazard on numerous volcanoes worldwide. Lava domes are built by slow extrusion of degassed, viscous magma and may be destroyed by gravitational collapse or explosion. The triggering of lava dome explosions is poorly understood: here we propose a new model of superficial lava-dome explosivity based upon a textural and geochemical study (vesicularity, microcrystallinity, cristobalite distribution, residual water contents, crystal transit times) of clasts produced by key eruptions. Superficial explosion of a growing lava dome may be promoted through porosity reduction caused by both vesicle flattening due to gas escape and syn-eruptive cristobalite precipitation. Both processes generate an impermeable and rigid carapace allowing overpressurisation of the inner parts of the lava dome by the rapid input of vesiculated magma batches. The relative thickness of the cristobalite-rich carapace is an inverse function of the external lava dome surface area. Explosive activity is thus more likely to occur at the onset of lava dome extrusion, in agreement with observations, as the likelihood of superficial lava dome explosions depends inversely on lava dome volume. This new result is of interest for the whole volcanological community and for risk management.

  20. What factors control superficial lava dome explosivity?

    PubMed Central

    Boudon, Georges; Balcone-Boissard, Hélène; Villemant, Benoît; Morgan, Daniel J.

    2015-01-01

    Dome-forming eruption is a frequent eruptive style and a major hazard on numerous volcanoes worldwide. Lava domes are built by slow extrusion of degassed, viscous magma and may be destroyed by gravitational collapse or explosion. The triggering of lava dome explosions is poorly understood: here we propose a new model of superficial lava-dome explosivity based upon a textural and geochemical study (vesicularity, microcrystallinity, cristobalite distribution, residual water contents, crystal transit times) of clasts produced by key eruptions. Superficial explosion of a growing lava dome may be promoted through porosity reduction caused by both vesicle flattening due to gas escape and syn-eruptive cristobalite precipitation. Both processes generate an impermeable and rigid carapace allowing overpressurisation of the inner parts of the lava dome by the rapid input of vesiculated magma batches. The relative thickness of the cristobalite-rich carapace is an inverse function of the external lava dome surface area. Explosive activity is thus more likely to occur at the onset of lava dome extrusion, in agreement with observations, as the likelihood of superficial lava dome explosions depends inversely on lava dome volume. This new result is of interest for the whole volcanological community and for risk management. PMID:26420069

  1. Explosive particle soil surface dispersion model for detonated military munitions.

    PubMed

    Hathaway, John E; Rishel, Jeremy P; Walsh, Marianne E; Walsh, Michael R; Taylor, Susan

    2015-07-01

    The accumulation of high explosive mass residue from the detonation of military munitions on training ranges is of environmental concern because of its potential to contaminate the soil, surface water, and groundwater. The US Department of Defense wants to quantify, understand, and remediate high explosive mass residue loadings that might be observed on active firing ranges. Previously, efforts using various sampling methods and techniques have resulted in limited success, due in part to the complicated dispersion pattern of the explosive particle residues upon detonation. In our efforts to simulate particle dispersal for high- and low-order explosions on hypothetical firing ranges, we use experimental particle data from detonations of munitions from a 155-mm howitzer, which are common military munitions. The mass loadings resulting from these simulations provide a previously unattained level of detail to quantify the explosive residue source-term for use in soil and water transport models. In addition, the resulting particle placements can be used to test, validate, and optimize particle sampling methods and statistical models as applied to firing ranges. Although the presented results are for a hypothetical 155-mm howitzer firing range, the method can be used for other munition types once the explosive particle characteristics are known.

  2. Dynamics of vapor emissions at wire explosion thresholda)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Belony, Paul A.; Kim, Yong W.

    2010-10-01

    X-pinch plasmas have been actively studied in the recent years. Numerical simulation of the ramp-up of metallic vapor emissions from wire specimens shows that under impulsive Ohmic heating the wire core invariably reaches a supercritical state before explosion. The heating rate depends sensitively on the local wire resistance, leading to highly variable vapor emission flux along the wire. To examine the vapor emission process, we have visualized nickel wire explosions by means of shock formation in air. In a single explosion as captured by shadowgraphy, there usually appear several shocks with spherical or cylindrical wave front originating from different parts of the wire. Growth of various shock fronts in time is well characterized by a power-law scaling in one form or another. Continuum emission spectra are obtained and calibrated to measure temperature near the explosion threshold. Shock front structures and vapor plume temperature are examined.

  3. Hot-spot contributions in shocked high explosives from mesoscale ignition models

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Levesque, G.; Vitello, P.; Howard, W. M.

    2013-06-01

    High explosive performance and sensitivity is strongly related to the mesoscale defect densities. Bracketing the population of mesoscale hot spots that are active in the shocked ignition of explosives is important for the development of predictive reactive flow models. By coupling a multiphysics-capable hydrodynamics code (ale3d) with a chemical kinetics solver (cheetah), we can parametrically analyze different pore sizes undergoing collapse in high pressure shock conditions with evolving physical parameter fields. Implementing first-principles based decomposition kinetics, burning hot spots are monitored, and the regimes of pore sizes that contribute significantly to burnt mass faction and those that survive thermal conduction on the time scales of ignition are elucidated. Comparisons are drawn between the thermal explosion theory and the multiphysics models for the determination of nominal pore sizes that burn significantly during ignition for the explosive 1,3,5-triamino-2,4,6-trinitrobenzene.

  4. Explosive cell lysis as a mechanism for the biogenesis of bacterial membrane vesicles and biofilms

    PubMed Central

    Turnbull, Lynne; Toyofuku, Masanori; Hynen, Amelia L.; Kurosawa, Masaharu; Pessi, Gabriella; Petty, Nicola K.; Osvath, Sarah R.; Cárcamo-Oyarce, Gerardo; Gloag, Erin S.; Shimoni, Raz; Omasits, Ulrich; Ito, Satoshi; Yap, Xinhui; Monahan, Leigh G.; Cavaliere, Rosalia; Ahrens, Christian H.; Charles, Ian G.; Nomura, Nobuhiko; Eberl, Leo; Whitchurch, Cynthia B.

    2016-01-01

    Many bacteria produce extracellular and surface-associated components such as membrane vesicles (MVs), extracellular DNA and moonlighting cytosolic proteins for which the biogenesis and export pathways are not fully understood. Here we show that the explosive cell lysis of a sub-population of cells accounts for the liberation of cytosolic content in Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms. Super-resolution microscopy reveals that explosive cell lysis also produces shattered membrane fragments that rapidly form MVs. A prophage endolysin encoded within the R- and F-pyocin gene cluster is essential for explosive cell lysis. Endolysin-deficient mutants are defective in MV production and biofilm development, consistent with a crucial role in the biogenesis of MVs and liberation of extracellular DNA and other biofilm matrix components. Our findings reveal that explosive cell lysis, mediated through the activity of a cryptic prophage endolysin, acts as a mechanism for the production of bacterial MVs. PMID:27075392

  5. The challenge of improvised explosives

    DOE PAGES

    Maienschein, Jon L.

    2012-06-14

    Energetic materials have been developed for decades, and indeed centuries, with a common set of goals in mind. Performance (as a detonating explosive, a propellant, or a pyrotechnic) has always been key, equally important have been the attributes of safety, stability, and reproducibility. Research and development with those goals has led to the set of energetic materials commonly used today. In the past few decades, the adoption and use of improvised explosives in attacks by terrorists or third-world parties has led to many questions about these materials, e.g., how they may be made, what threat they pose to the intendedmore » target, how to handle them safely, and how to detect them. The unfortunate advent of improvised explosives has opened the door for research into these materials, and there are active programs in many countries. I will discuss issues and opportunities facing research into improvised explosives.« less

  6. Neural activation during risky decision-making in youth at high risk for substance use disorders.

    PubMed

    Hulvershorn, Leslie A; Hummer, Tom A; Fukunaga, Rena; Leibenluft, Ellen; Finn, Peter; Cyders, Melissa A; Anand, Amit; Overhage, Lauren; Dir, Allyson; Brown, Joshua

    2015-08-30

    Risky decision-making, particularly in the context of reward-seeking behavior, is strongly associated with the presence of substance use disorders (SUDs). However, there has been little research on the neural substrates underlying reward-related decision-making in drug-naïve youth who are at elevated risk for SUDs. Participants comprised 23 high-risk (HR) youth with a well-established SUD risk phenotype and 27 low-risk healthy comparison (HC) youth, aged 10-14. Participants completed the balloon analog risk task (BART), a task designed to examine risky decision-making, during functional magnetic resonance imaging. The HR group had faster reaction times, but otherwise showed no behavioral differences from the HC group. HR youth experienced greater activation when processing outcome, as the chances of balloon explosion increased, relative to HC youth, in ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC). As explosion probability increased, group-by-condition interactions in the ventral striatum/anterior cingulate and the anterior insula showed increasing activation in HR youth, specifically on trials when explosions occurred. Thus, atypical activation increased with increasing risk of negative outcome (i.e., balloon explosion) in a cortico-striatal network in the HR group. These findings identify candidate neurobiological markers of addiction risk in youth at high familial and phenotypic risk for SUDs. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  7. Shifting patterns of mild weather in response to projected radiative forcing

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    van der Wiel, Karin; Kapnick, Sarah; Vecchi, Gabriel

    2017-04-01

    Traditionally, climate change research has focused on changes in mean climate (e.g. global mean temperature, sea level rise, glacier melt) or change in extreme events (e.g. hurricanes, extreme precipitation, droughts, heat waves, wild fires). Though extreme events have the potential to disrupt society, extreme conditions are rare by definition. In contrast, mild weather occurs frequently and many human activities are built around it. Examples of such activities include football games, dog walks, bike rides, and outdoor weddings, but also activities of direct economic impact, e.g. construction work, infrastructure projects, road or rail transportation, air travel, and landscaping projects. Absence of mild weather impacts society in various way, understanding current and future mild weather is therefore of high scientific interest. We present a global analysis of mild weather based on simple and relatable criteria and we explore changes in mild weather occurrence in response to radiative forcing. A high-resolution global climate model, GFDL HiFLOR, is used to allow for investigation of local features and changes. In response to RCP4.5, we find a slight global mean decrease in the annual number of mild days projected both in the near future (-4 d/yr, 2016-2035) and at the end of this century (-10 d/yr, 2081-2100). Projected regional and seasonal redistributions of mild days are substantially greater. Tropical regions are projected to see large decreases, in the mid-latitudes small increases in the number of mild days are projected. Mediterranean climates are projected to see a shift of mild weather away from the local summer to the shoulder seasons. These changes are larger than the interannual variability of mild weather caused by El Niño-Southern Oscillation. Finally, we use reanalysis data to show an observed global decrease in the recent past, and we verify that these observed regional changes in mild weather resemble the projections.

  8. Contraction type influences the human ability to use the available torque capacity of skeletal muscle during explosive efforts

    PubMed Central

    Tillin, Neale A.; Pain, Matthew T. G.; Folland, Jonathan P.

    2012-01-01

    The influence of contraction type on the human ability to use the torque capacity of skeletal muscle during explosive efforts has not been documented. Fourteen male participants completed explosive voluntary contractions of the knee extensors in four separate conditions: concentric (CON) and eccentric (ECC); and isometric at two knee angles (101°, ISO101 and 155°, ISO155). In each condition, torque was measured at 25 ms intervals up to 150 ms from torque onset, and then normalized to the maximum voluntary torque (MVT) specific to that joint angle and angular velocity. Explosive voluntary torque after 50 ms in each condition was also expressed as a percentage of torque generated after 50 ms during a supramaximal 300 Hz electrically evoked octet in the same condition. Explosive voluntary torque normalized to MVT was more than 60 per cent larger in CON than any other condition after the initial 25 ms. The percentage of evoked torque expressed after 50 ms of the explosive voluntary contractions was also greatest in CON (ANOVA; p < 0.001), suggesting higher concentric volitional activation. This was confirmed by greater agonist electromyography normalized to Mmax (recorded during the explosive voluntary contractions) in CON. These results provide novel evidence that the ability to use the muscle's torque capacity explosively is influenced by contraction type, with concentric contractions being more conducive to explosive performance due to a more effective neural strategy. PMID:22258636

  9. The safety and reliability of the S and A mechanism designed for the NASA/LSPE program

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Montesi, L. J.

    1973-01-01

    Under contract to the Manned Spacecraft Center, NASA/Houston, NOL developed a number of explosive charges for use in studying the surface of the moon during Apollo 17 activities. The charges were part of the Lunar Seismic Profiling Experiment (LSPE). When the Safety and Arming Device used in the previous ALSEP experiments was found unsuitable for use with the new explosive packages, NOL also designed the Safety and Arming Mechanism, and the safety and reliability tests conducted are described. The results of the test program indicate that the detonation transfer probability between the armed explosive components exceeds 0.9999, and is less than 0.0001 when the explosive components are in the safe position.

  10. Seismic data acquisition at the FACT site for the CASPAR project.

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

    Jones, Kyle R.; Chael, Eric Paul; Hart, Darren M.

    Since May 2010, we have been recording continuous seismic data at Sandia's FACT site. The collected signals provide us with a realistic archive for testing algorithms under development for local monitoring of explosive testing. Numerous small explosive tests are routinely conducted around Kirtland AFB by different organizations. Our goal is to identify effective methods for distinguishing these events from normal daily activity on and near the base, such as vehicles, aircraft, and storms. In this report, we describe the recording system, and present some observations of the varying ambient noise conditions at FACT. We present examples of various common, non-explosive,more » sources. Next we show signals from several small explosions, and discuss their characteristic features.« less

  11. Analysis of Spattering Activity at Halema'uma'u in 2015

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mintz, Bianca G.

    The classical explosive basaltic eruption spectrum is traditionally defined by the following end member eruption styles: Hawaiian and Strombolian. The field use of high-speed cameras has enabled volcanologists to make improved quantifications and more accurate descriptions of these classical eruptions styles and to quantify previously undecipherable activity (including activity on the basaltic eruption spectrum between the two defined end members). Explosive activity in 2015 at the free surface of the Halema'uma'u lava lake at Kilauea exhibited features of both sustained (Hawaiian) fountaining and transient (Strombolian) explosivity. Most of this activity is internally triggered by the internal rise of decoupled gas bubbles from below the lake's surface, but external triggering via rock falls, was also observed. Here I identify three styles of bubble bursting and spattering eruptive activity (isolated events, clusters of events, and prolonged episodes) at the lava lake, and distinguished them based on their temporal and spatial distributions. Isolated events are discrete single bubble bursts that persist for a few tenths of seconds to seconds and are separated by repose periods of similar or longer time scales. Cluster of events are closely spaced, repeated events grouped around a narrow point source, which persist for seconds to minutes. Prolonged episodes are groupings of numerous events closely linked in space and time that persist for tens of minutes to hours. Analysis of individual events from high-speed camera images indicates that they are made up of up to three phases: the bubble ascent phase, the bursting and pyroclast ejection phase, and the drain back (and rebound) phase. Based on the numerical parameters established in this study, the 2015 activity was relatively weak (i.e., of low intensity) but still falls in a region between those of continuous Hawaiian fountains and impulsive, short-lived Strombolian explosions, in terms of duration.

  12. Rapid and slow: Varying magma ascent rates as a mechanism for Vulcanian explosions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cassidy, Mike; Cole, Paul. D.; Hicks, Kelby E.; Varley, Nick R.; Peters, Nial; Lerner, Allan H.

    2015-06-01

    Vulcanian explosions are one of the most common types of volcanic activity observed at silicic volcanoes. Magma ascent rates are often invoked as being the fundamental control on their explosivity, yet this factor is poorly constrained for low magnitude end-member Vulcanian explosions, which are particularly poorly understood, partly due to the rarity of ash samples and low gas fluxes. We describe ash generated by small Vulcanian explosions at Volcán de Colima in 2013, where we document for the first time marked differences in the vesicularity, crystal characteristics (volume fraction, size and shape) and glass compositions in juvenile material from discrete events. We interpret these variations as representing differing ascent styles and speeds of magma pulses within the conduit. Heterogeneous degassing during ascent leads to fast ascending, gas-rich magma pulses together with slow ascending gas-poor magma pulses within the same conduit. This inferred heterogeneity is complemented by SO2 flux data, which show transient episodes of both open and closed system degassing, indicating efficient shallow fracture sealing mechanisms, which allows for gas overpressure to generate small Vulcanian explosions.

  13. Hazard maps of Colima volcano, Mexico

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Suarez-Plascencia, C.; Nunez-Cornu, F. J.; Escudero Ayala, C. R.

    2011-12-01

    Colima volcano, also known as Volcan de Fuego (19° 30.696 N, 103° 37.026 W), is located on the border between the states of Jalisco and Colima and is the most active volcano in Mexico. Began its current eruptive process in February 1991, in February 10, 1999 the biggest explosion since 1913 occurred at the summit dome. The activity during the 2001-2005 period was the most intense, but did not exceed VEI 3. The activity resulted in the formation of domes and their destruction after explosive events. The explosions originated eruptive columns, reaching attitudes between 4,500 and 9,000 m.a.s.l., further pyroclastic flows reaching distances up to 3.5 km from the crater. During the explosive events ash emissions were generated in all directions reaching distances up to 100 km, slightly affected nearby villages as Tuxpan, Tonila, Zapotlán, Cuauhtemoc, Comala, Zapotitlan de Vadillo and Toliman. During the 2005 this volcano has had an intense effusive-explosive activity, similar to the one that took place during the period of 1890 through 1900. Intense pre-plinian eruption in January 20, 1913, generated little economic losses in the lower parts of the volcano due to low population density and low socio-economic activities at the time. Shows the updating of the volcanic hazard maps published in 2001, where we identify whit SPOT satellite imagery and Google Earth, change in the land use on the slope of volcano, the expansion of the agricultural frontier on the east and southeast sides of the Colima volcano, the population inhabiting the area is approximately 517,000 people, and growing at an annual rate of 4.77%, also the region that has shown an increased in the vulnerability for the development of economic activities, supported by the construction of highways, natural gas pipelines and electrical infrastructure that connect to the Port of Manzanillo to Guadalajara city. The update the hazard maps are: a) Exclusion areas and moderate hazard for explosive events (rockfall) and pyroclastic flows, b) Hazard map of lahars and debris flow, and c) Hazard map of ash-fall. The cartographic and database information obtained will be the basis for updating the Operational Plan of the Colima Volcano by the State Civil & Fire Protection Unit of Jalisco, Mexico, and the urban development plans of surrounding municipalities, in order to reduce their vulnerability to the hazards of the volcanic activity.

  14. A pH Switch Regulates the Inverse Relationship between Membranolytic and Chaperone-like Activities of HSP-1/2, a Major Protein of Horse Seminal Plasma.

    PubMed

    Kumar, C Sudheer; Swamy, Musti J

    2016-07-05

    HSP-1/2, a major protein of horse seminal plasma binds to choline phospholipids present on the sperm plasma membrane and perturbs its structure by intercalating into the hydrophobic core, which results in an efflux of choline phospholipids and cholesterol, an important event in sperm capacitation. HSP-1/2 also exhibits chaperone-like activity (CLA) in vitro and protects target proteins against various kinds of stress. In the present study we show that HSP-1/2 exhibits destabilizing activity toward model supported and cell membranes. The membranolytic activity of HSP-1/2 is found to be pH dependent, with lytic activity being high at mildly acidic pH (6.0-6.5) and low at mildly basic pH (8.0-8.5). Interestingly, the CLA is also found to be pH dependent, with high activity at mildly basic pH and low activity at mildly acidic pH. Taken together the present studies demonstrate that the membranolytic and chaperone-like activities of HSP-1/2 have an inverse relationship and are regulated via a pH switch, which is reversible. The higher CLA observed at mildly basic pH could be correlated to an increase in surface hydrophobicity of the protein. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study reporting regulation of two different activities of a chaperone protein by a pH switch.

  15. A Comparison of ACQ, AIE and AEE-Based Polymers Loaded on Polyurethane Foams as Sensors for Explosives Detection.

    PubMed

    Chu, Zhiwei; Fan, Zhuxin; Zhang, Xiang; Tan, Xiaofeng; Li, Dongxu; Chen, Guohua; Zhao, Qinghua

    2018-05-15

    An aggregation-caused quenching (ACQ)-active polymer (PF), an aggregation-induced emission (AIE)-active polymer (PFTPE) and an aggregation-enhanced emission (AEE)-active polymer (PTTPE) were synthesized by tetraphenylethane (TPE), fluorene and thiophene moieties. Polyurethane (PU) foams modified by PF, PFTPE and PTTPE, namely PU-PF, PU-PFTPE and PU-PTTPE, using ultrasonication-assisted method have been prepared. A comparative study of PU-PF, PU-PFTPE and PU-PTTPE for detection explosives had been performed, and significant fluorescence quenching was observed with the introduction of PA solutions. The as-prepared PU-PF, PU-PFTPE and PU-PTTPE sensors exhibited a superior sensitivity for PA solutions with different concentrations. Remarkably, PU-PF gave a quenching efficiency of 96.2%, higher than 93.5% for PU-PFTPE and 86.7% for PU-PTTPE at a PA concentration of 180 µg·mL -1 in methanol, which was attributed to the effective energy transfer from the fluorophore (PF) to the nitro explosive (PA). This suggested that some ACQ polymers, applied to detect explosives, could afford better performances than AIE or AEE polymers through modification of structures and selection of adequate carriers. At the same time, these chemical sensors can be recycled many times.

  16. A Comparison of ACQ, AIE and AEE-Based Polymers Loaded on Polyurethane Foams as Sensors for Explosives Detection

    PubMed Central

    Chu, Zhiwei; Fan, Zhuxin; Zhang, Xiang; Tan, Xiaofeng; Chen, Guohua; Zhao, Qinghua

    2018-01-01

    An aggregation-caused quenching (ACQ)-active polymer (PF), an aggregation-induced emission (AIE)-active polymer (PFTPE) and an aggregation-enhanced emission (AEE)-active polymer (PTTPE) were synthesized by tetraphenylethane (TPE), fluorene and thiophene moieties. Polyurethane (PU) foams modified by PF, PFTPE and PTTPE, namely PU-PF, PU-PFTPE and PU-PTTPE, using ultrasonication-assisted method have been prepared. A comparative study of PU-PF, PU-PFTPE and PU-PTTPE for detection explosives had been performed, and significant fluorescence quenching was observed with the introduction of PA solutions. The as-prepared PU-PF, PU-PFTPE and PU-PTTPE sensors exhibited a superior sensitivity for PA solutions with different concentrations. Remarkably, PU-PF gave a quenching efficiency of 96.2%, higher than 93.5% for PU-PFTPE and 86.7% for PU-PTTPE at a PA concentration of 180 µg·mL−1 in methanol, which was attributed to the effective energy transfer from the fluorophore (PF) to the nitro explosive (PA). This suggested that some ACQ polymers, applied to detect explosives, could afford better performances than AIE or AEE polymers through modification of structures and selection of adequate carriers. At the same time, these chemical sensors can be recycled many times. PMID:29762497

  17. Detecting hidden volcanic explosions from Mt. Cleveland Volcano, Alaska with infrasound and ground-couples airwaves

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    De Angelis, Slivio; Fee, David; Haney, Matthew; Schneider, David

    2012-01-01

    In Alaska, where many active volcanoes exist without ground-based instrumentation, the use of techniques suitable for distant monitoring is pivotal. In this study we report regional-scale seismic and infrasound observations of volcanic activity at Mt. Cleveland between December 2011 and August 2012. During this period, twenty explosions were detected by infrasound sensors as far away as 1827 km from the active vent, and ground-coupled acoustic waves were recorded at seismic stations across the Aleutian Arc. Several events resulting from the explosive disruption of small lava domes within the summit crater were confirmed by analysis of satellite remote sensing data. However, many explosions eluded initial, automated, analyses of satellite data due to poor weather conditions. Infrasound and seismic monitoring provided effective means for detecting these hidden events. We present results from the implementation of automatic infrasound and seismo-acoustic eruption detection algorithms, and review the challenges of real-time volcano monitoring operations in remote regions. We also model acoustic propagation in the Northern Pacific, showing how tropospheric ducting effects allow infrasound to travel long distances across the Aleutian Arc. The successful results of our investigation provide motivation for expanded efforts in infrasound monitoring across the Aleutians and contributes to our knowledge of the number and style of vulcanian eruptions at Mt. Cleveland.

  18. Empirical Calibration of Small Explosion Seismic And Acoustic Phenomenology in New England

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2008-10-31

    site was too close to a nearby cell /radio tower and the active quarry wall to detonate our planned 400 lb explosions. Core drilling at an...alternative test site (Figure 52) was conducted further away from the active quarry wall and a nearby cell /radio tower. The alternative site would be far...experiment was returned into the original location (Figure 52). In order to reduce the projected ground vibrations at the cell /radio tower and high

  19. Nanotwin Formation in High-Manganese Austenitic Steels Under Explosive Shock Loading

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Canadinc, D.; Uzer, B.; Elmadagli, M.; Guner, F.

    2018-04-01

    The micro-deformation mechanisms active in a high-manganese austenitic steel were investigated upon explosive shock loading. Single system of nanotwins forming within primary twins were shown to govern the deformation despite the elevated temperatures attained during testing. The benefits of nanotwin formation for potential armor materials were demonstrated.

  20. 76 FR 9375 - Proposed Extension of Existing Information Collection; Sealing of Abandoned Areas

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-02-17

    ... prevent potentially explosive or toxic gases from migrating into the active working areas of underground... behind the seal must be monitored to prevent methane from reaching the explosive range. Miners rely on... used; Enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and Minimize the...

  1. 77 FR 67026 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comments Requested: Report of...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-11-08

    ... Lost ATF Form 5400.30, Intrastate Purchase of Explosives Coupon ACTION: 60-day notice. The Department... the following four points: --Evaluate whether the proposed collection of information is necessary for... or Lost ATF F 5400.30, Intrastate Purchase Explosives Coupon. (3) Agency form number, if any, and the...

  2. 78 FR 14120 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comments Requested: Statement of...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-03-04

    ...--Marking of Plastic Explosives for the Purpose of Detection ACTION: 60-Day notice. The Department of... currently approved collection. (2) Title of the Form/Collection: Statement of Process--Marking of Plastic... information will be used to ensure that plastic explosives contain a detection agent as required by law. (5...

  3. Hydroacoustic Recordings of Explosion-Induced Tremor at NW Rota-1 Volcano, Marianas

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Caplan-Auerbach, J.; Dziak, R. P.; Lau, T. A.

    2013-12-01

    Hydroacoustic data recorded during the long-term eruption of NW Rota-1 submarine volcano (Marianas) reveal a wide variety of explosion and tremor signals. Data from a moored hydrophone deployed near the summit of NW Rota-1 from February 2009 to April 2010 confirm that NW Rota-1 was nearly continuously active during this time. Explosion acoustic signals have a wide range of frequencies: some carry energy that is bandlimited between 5-25 Hz while others show broadband signal strength between 5-200 Hz (even higher frequencies may be attenuated by the hydrophone's anti-aliasing filter at 220 Hz). The signal is observed to switch rapidly between low frequency and broadband explosion types. In many cases the explosion signals repeat at a high rate, with recurrence intervals between 0.1-0.5 seconds. In such instances the explosions blend into tremor, exhibiting a large number of spectral harmonics that we attribute to the Dirac comb effect. The presence of these harmonics indicates that explosion recurrence intervals are highly regular, although subtle gliding within the harmonic frequencies suggests that there is some variability in the timing between explosions. This suggests a strongly repeatable explosion source. The frequency of explosions at NW Rota-1 is confirmed by ROV observations of eruption plume dynamics (Chadwick et al., 2008; Deardorff et al., 2008). We also observe a strong low-frequency (< 5 Hz) tremor signal that does not correlate with the explosion tremor, as well as strongly harmonic tremor that is not obviously composed of repeating explosions. These signals may reflect processes deeper within the conduit, yet still capable of coupling into the water column. Video footage collected during ROV dives in 2009 shows multiple instances in which the ground is observed to move, but these signals do not clearly correlate with hydroacoustic pulses. Deeper study into the source of these signals requires seismic instrumentation on and around NW Rota-1.

  4. Daily Physical Activity Patterns During the Early Stage of Alzheimer's Disease.

    PubMed

    Varma, Vijay R; Watts, Amber

    2017-01-01

    Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease that results in severe disability. Very few studies have explored changes in daily physical activity patterns during early stages of AD when components of physical function and mobility may be preserved. Our study explored differences in daily physical activity profiles, independent of the effects of non-cognitive factors including physical function and age, among individuals with mild AD compared to controls. Patients with mild AD and controls (n = 92) recruited from the University of Kansas Alzheimer's Disease Center Registry, wore the Actigraph GT3X+ for seven days, and provided objective physical function (VO2 max) and mobility data. Using multivariate linear regression, we explored whether individuals with mild AD had different daily average and diurnal physical activity patterns compared to controls independent of non-cognitive factors that may affect physical activity, including physical function and mobility. We found that mild AD was associated with less moderate-intensity physical activity (p < 0.05), lower peak activity (p < 0.01), and lower physical activity complexity (p < 0.05) particularly during the morning. Mild AD was not associated with greater sedentary activity or less lower-intensity physical activity across the day after adjusting for non-cognitive covariates. These findings suggest that factors independent of physical capacity and mobility may drive declines in moderate-intensity physical activity, and not lower-intensity or sedentary activity, during the early stage of AD. This underscores the importance of a better mechanistic understanding of how cognitive decline and AD pathology impact physical activity. Findings emphasize the potential value of designing and testing time-of-day specific physical activity interventions targeting individuals in the early stages of AD, prior to significant declines in mobility and physical function.

  5. [Analysis on on-site rescue and traumatic features of victims involved in gas explosion accident in Hangzhou].

    PubMed

    Wang, X G; Jin, R H; Liu, F P; Han, C M

    2017-10-20

    Objective: To investigate the situations of on-site rescue and traumatic features of victims involved in gas explosion accident in Hangzhou, so as to provide more data support for emergency medical rescues of the similar incidents of massive casualty. Methods: Two medical workers with a certain clinical experience were sent to Hangzhou 120 emergency medical centers to collect data of the on-site rescue on 21st July, 2017, including ambulance call-outs, on-site command and traffic conditions, and on-site triage and evacuation of the victims. They were then sent to the hospitals receiving the victims to investigate the situations of these victims including the general information (such as gender, age, admitted hospitals, and number of admission, discharge, and transferring in the first two weeks after the accident) and injury assessment [such as injury position and type, injury severity evaluation by New Injury Severity Scoring (NISS), and burn severity evaluation for victims with burns]. Results: (1) A total of 15 ambulances reached the accident site for rescue. The traffic and transportation were jammed and interrupted after this accident. On-site triage and distribution were disorderly conducted. (2) Clinical data of 53 victims were collected, including 24 males and 29 females, with the age of 8 to 70 (34±14) years old. They were sent into 6 hospitals in Hangzhou. Two victims died on the day of accident. Up to two weeks after this accident, 28 (52.8%) victims were discharged from the hospitals and received follow-up in outpatient department. Five victims with severe injuries were transferred to the other hospitals. (3) Based on the results of NISS, the injury severities were mild in 29 (54.7%) cases, moderate in 9 (17.0%) cases, serious in 3 (5.7%) cases, and severe in 12 (22.6%) cases. Those 2 dead victims were classified into the severe category due to the highest NISS score of 75. For all of the victims, skin and soft tissue defects were most common. Six (11.3%) victims were combined with burns. According to the classification of burn severity, there were one case of mild, one case of serious, and 4 cases of severe. Conclusions: The gas explosion accident in Hangzhou caused massive casualties with complex injuries. The local emergency medical rescue responded quickly, but during the rescue process, lots of aspects should be further improved.

  6. Mild chemical pretreatments are sufficient for complete saccharification of steam-exploded residues and high ethanol production in desirable wheat accessions.

    PubMed

    Zahoor; Tu, Yuanyuan; Wang, Lingqiang; Xia, Tao; Sun, Dan; Zhou, Shiguang; Wang, Yanting; Li, Ying; Zhang, Heping; Zhang, Tong; Madadi, Meysam; Peng, Liangcai

    2017-11-01

    In this study, a combined pretreatment was performed in four wheat accessions using steam explosion followed with different concentrations of H 2 SO 4 or NaOH, leading to increased hexoses yields by 3-6 folds from enzymatic hydrolysis. Further co-supplied with 1% Tween-80, Talq90 and Talq16 accessions exhibited an almost complete enzymatic saccharification of steam-exploded (SE) residues after 0.5% H 2 SO 4 or 1% NaOH pretreatment, with the highest bioethanol yields at 18.5%-19.4%, compared with previous reports about wheat bioethanol yields at 11%-17% obtained under relatively strong pretreatment conditions. Furthermore, chemical analysis indicated that much enhanced saccharification in Talq90 and Talq16 may be partially due to their relatively low cellulose CrI and DP values and high hemicellulose Ara and H-monomer levels in raw materials and SE residues. Hence, this study has not only demonstrated a mild pretreatment technology for a complete saccharification, but it has also obtained the high ethanol production in desirable wheat accessions. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  7. Sensitivity of OMI SO2 measurements to variable eruptive behaviour at Soufrière Hills Volcano, Montserrat

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hayer, C. S.; Wadge, G.; Edmonds, M.; Christopher, T.

    2016-02-01

    Since 2004, the satellite-borne Ozone Mapping Instrument (OMI) has observed sulphur dioxide (SO2) plumes during both quiescence and effusive eruptive activity at Soufrière Hills Volcano, Montserrat. On average, OMI detected a SO2 plume 4-6 times more frequently during effusive periods than during quiescence in the 2008-2010 period. The increased ability of OMI to detect SO2 during eruptive periods is mainly due to an increase in plume altitude rather than a higher SO2 emission rate. Three styles of eruptive activity cause thermal lofting of gases (Vulcanian explosions; pyroclastic flows; a hot lava dome) and the resultant plume altitudes are estimated from observations and models. Most lofting plumes from Soufrière Hills are derived from hot domes and pyroclastic flows. Although Vulcanian explosions produced the largest plumes, some produced only negligible SO2 signals detected by OMI. OMI is most valuable for monitoring purposes at this volcano during periods of lava dome growth and during explosive activity.

  8. Safety of Li-SOCl2 cells

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Subbarao, S.; Halpert, G.

    1985-01-01

    The safety of lithium thionyl chloride cells has been a concern of JPL for some time in the development of these cells for NASA's use. Because the safety problems are complex and several issues are interrelated it was decided that it would be best to put together an organized review of the safety issues, which are reviewed here. Hazards are classified in three categories: (1) cell leakage, a problem dealing with construction or materials; (2) venting of toxic gases through seals and welds, considered a mild hazard in which electrolyte and gas is released; and (3) violent rupture or controlled rupture of cells with the possibility of explosion of the materials inside. These hazards and their effects are detailed along with possible ways of dealing with them.

  9. Plowshare Program - American Atomic Bomb Tests For Industrial Applications

    ScienceCinema

    None

    2018-01-16

    The United States Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) established the Plowshare Program as a research and development activity to explore the technical and economic feasibility of using nuclear explosives for industrial applications. The reasoning was that the relatively inexpensive energy available from nuclear explosions could prove useful for a wide variety of peaceful purposes. The Plowshare Program began in 1958 and continued through 1975. Between December 1961 and May 1973, the United States conducted 27 Plowshare nuclear explosive tests comprising 35 individual detonations. Conceptually, industrial applications resulting from the use of nuclear explosives could be divided into two broad categories: 1) large-scale excavation and quarrying, where the energy from the explosion was used to break up and/or move rock; and 2) underground engineering, where the energy released from deeply buried nuclear explosives increased the permeability and porosity of the rock by massive breaking and fracturing. Possible excavation applications included: canals, harbors, highway and railroad cuts through mountains, open pit mining, construction of dams, and other quarry and construction-related projects. Underground nuclear explosion applications included: stimulation of natural gas production, preparation of leachable ore bodies for in situ leaching, creation of underground zones of fractured oil shale for in situ retorting, and formation of underground natural gas and petroleum storage reservoirs.

  10. Pigeonholing pyroclasts: Insights from the 19 March 2008 explosive eruption of Kīlauea volcano

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Houghton, Bruce F.; Swanson, D.A.; Carey, R.J.; Rausch, J.; Sutton, A.J.

    2011-01-01

    We think, conventionally, of volcanic explosive eruptions as being triggered in one of two ways: by release and expansion of volatiles dissolved in the ejected magma (magmatic explosions) or by transfer of heat from magma into an external source of water (phreatic or phreatomagmatic explosions). We document here an event where neither magma nor an external water source was involved in explosive activity at K??lauea. Instead, the eruption was powered by the expansion of decoupled magmatic volatiles released from deeper magma, which was not ejected by the eruption, and the trigger was a collapse of near-surface wall rocks that then momentarily blocked that volatile flux. Mapping of the advected fall deposit a day after this eruption has highlighted the difficulty of constraining deposit edges from unobserved or prehistoric eruptions of all magnitudes. Our results suggest that the dispersal area of advected fall deposits could be miscalculated by up to 30% of the total, raising issues for accurate hazard zoning and assessment. Eruptions of this type challenge existing classification schemes for pyroclastic deposits and explosive eruptions and, in the past, have probably been interpreted as phreatic explosions, where the eruptive mechanism has been assumed to involve flashing of groundwater to steam. ?? 2011 Geological Society of America.

  11. Plowshare Program - American Atomic Bomb Tests For Industrial Applications

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

    None

    2012-04-22

    The United States Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) established the Plowshare Program as a research and development activity to explore the technical and economic feasibility of using nuclear explosives for industrial applications. The reasoning was that the relatively inexpensive energy available from nuclear explosions could prove useful for a wide variety of peaceful purposes. The Plowshare Program began in 1958 and continued through 1975. Between December 1961 and May 1973, the United States conducted 27 Plowshare nuclear explosive tests comprising 35 individual detonations. Conceptually, industrial applications resulting from the use of nuclear explosives could be divided into two broad categories: 1)more » large-scale excavation and quarrying, where the energy from the explosion was used to break up and/or move rock; and 2) underground engineering, where the energy released from deeply buried nuclear explosives increased the permeability and porosity of the rock by massive breaking and fracturing. Possible excavation applications included: canals, harbors, highway and railroad cuts through mountains, open pit mining, construction of dams, and other quarry and construction-related projects. Underground nuclear explosion applications included: stimulation of natural gas production, preparation of leachable ore bodies for in situ leaching, creation of underground zones of fractured oil shale for in situ retorting, and formation of underground natural gas and petroleum storage reservoirs.« less

  12. Task Order 7. Use of activated carbon for treatment of explosives-contaminated groundwater at the Milan Army Ammunition Plant (MAAP). Final report, Apr 89-May 90

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

    Dennis, R.M.; Wujcik, W.J.; Lowe, W.L.

    1990-05-01

    The primary objective of this task was to determine the feasibility of using GAC to treat ground water contaminated by explosives at the Milan Army Ammunition Plant (MAAP) in Milan, Tennessee. Laboratory GAC isotherm studies were conducted and two carbons, Atochem, Inc. GAC 830 and Calgon Filtrasorb 300, were selected for further testing in continuous flow GAC columns. Three pilot scale continuous flow GAC column tests were performed at MAAP using the two carbons selected from the laboratory GAC isotherm studies. The results from the laboratory and pilot studies are presented in this report. They show that concurrent removal ofmore » explosives such as TNT, RDX, HMX, Tetryl, and nitrobenzenes from ground water using continuous flow granular activated carbon is feasible.« less

  13. Eruptive history of the Dieng Mountains region, central Java, and potential hazards from future eruptions

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Miller, C. Dan; Sushyar, R.; ,; Hamidi, S.

    1983-01-01

    The Dieng Mountains region consists of a complex of late Quaternary to recent volcanic stratocones, parasitic vents, and explosion craters. Six age groups of volcanic centers, eruptive products, and explosion craters are recognized in the region based on their morphology, degree of dissection, stratigraphic relationships, and degree of weathering. These features range in age from tens of thousands of years to events that have occurred this century. No magmatic eruptions have occurred in the Dieng Mountains region for at least several thousand years; volcanic activity during this time interval has consisted of phreatic eruptions and non-explosive hydrothermal activity. If future volcanic events are similar to those of the last few thousand years, they will consist of phreatic eruptions, associated small hot mudflows, emission of suffocating gases, and hydrothermal activity. Future phreatic eruptions may follow, or accompany, periods of increased earthquake activity; the epicenters for the seismicity may suggest where eruptive activity will occur. Under such circumstances, the populace within several kilometers of a potential eruption site should be warned of a possible eruption, given instructions about what to do in the event of an eruption, or temporarily evacuated to a safer location.

  14. Motor, Visual and Emotional Deficits in Mice after Closed-Head Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Are Alleviated by the Novel CB2 Inverse Agonist SMM-189

    PubMed Central

    Reiner, Anton; Heldt, Scott A.; Presley, Chaela S.; Guley, Natalie H.; Elberger, Andrea J.; Deng, Yunping; D’Surney, Lauren; Rogers, Joshua T.; Ferrell, Jessica; Bu, Wei; Del Mar, Nobel; Honig, Marcia G.; Gurley, Steven N.; Moore, Bob M.

    2014-01-01

    We have developed a focal blast model of closed-head mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) in mice. As true for individuals that have experienced mild TBI, mice subjected to 50–60 psi blast show motor, visual and emotional deficits, diffuse axonal injury and microglial activation, but no overt neuron loss. Because microglial activation can worsen brain damage after a concussive event and because microglia can be modulated by their cannabinoid type 2 receptors (CB2), we evaluated the effectiveness of the novel CB2 receptor inverse agonist SMM-189 in altering microglial activation and mitigating deficits after mild TBI. In vitro analysis indicated that SMM-189 converted human microglia from the pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype to the pro-healing M2 phenotype. Studies in mice showed that daily administration of SMM-189 for two weeks beginning shortly after blast greatly reduced the motor, visual, and emotional deficits otherwise evident after 50–60 psi blasts, and prevented brain injury that may contribute to these deficits. Our results suggest that treatment with the CB2 inverse agonist SMM-189 after a mild TBI event can reduce its adverse consequences by beneficially modulating microglial activation. These findings recommend further evaluation of CB2 inverse agonists as a novel therapeutic approach for treating mild TBI. PMID:25561230

  15. Motor, visual and emotional deficits in mice after closed-head mild traumatic brain injury are alleviated by the novel CB2 inverse agonist SMM-189.

    PubMed

    Reiner, Anton; Heldt, Scott A; Presley, Chaela S; Guley, Natalie H; Elberger, Andrea J; Deng, Yunping; D'Surney, Lauren; Rogers, Joshua T; Ferrell, Jessica; Bu, Wei; Del Mar, Nobel; Honig, Marcia G; Gurley, Steven N; Moore, Bob M

    2014-12-31

    We have developed a focal blast model of closed-head mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) in mice. As true for individuals that have experienced mild TBI, mice subjected to 50-60 psi blast show motor, visual and emotional deficits, diffuse axonal injury and microglial activation, but no overt neuron loss. Because microglial activation can worsen brain damage after a concussive event and because microglia can be modulated by their cannabinoid type 2 receptors (CB2), we evaluated the effectiveness of the novel CB2 receptor inverse agonist SMM-189 in altering microglial activation and mitigating deficits after mild TBI. In vitro analysis indicated that SMM-189 converted human microglia from the pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype to the pro-healing M2 phenotype. Studies in mice showed that daily administration of SMM-189 for two weeks beginning shortly after blast greatly reduced the motor, visual, and emotional deficits otherwise evident after 50-60 psi blasts, and prevented brain injury that may contribute to these deficits. Our results suggest that treatment with the CB2 inverse agonist SMM-189 after a mild TBI event can reduce its adverse consequences by beneficially modulating microglial activation. These findings recommend further evaluation of CB2 inverse agonists as a novel therapeutic approach for treating mild TBI.

  16. Discovery of a Powerful, Transient, Explosive Thermal Event at Marduk Fluctus, Io, in Galileo NIMS Data

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Davies, A. G.; Davies, R. L.; Veeder, G. J.; de Kleer, K.; de Pater, I.; Matson, D. L.; Johnson, T. V.; Wilson, L.

    2018-04-01

    Analysis of Galileo Near-Infrared Mapping Spectrometer observations of Marduk Fluctus, a volcano on the Jovian moon Io, reveals a style of volcanic activity not previously seen there—a powerful thermal event lasting only a few minutes in 1996. The thermal emission rapidly fades, suggesting extremely rapid cooling of small clasts. The duration and evolution of the explosive eruption are akin to what might be expected from a strombolian or vulcanian explosion. The presence of such events provides an additional volcanic process that can be imaged by future missions with the intent of determining lava composition from eruption temperature, an important constraint on the internal composition of Io. These data promise to be of particular use in understanding the mechanics of explosive volcanic processes on Io.

  17. Late-time X-rays to map the Zoo of Engine-driven Stellar Explosions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Margutti, Raffaella

    2017-09-01

    We propose a continuation of our effort to monitor nearby long GRBs (z <=0.3) with Chandra. Our synergistic multi-wavelength program (radio, optical, Swift and proposed Chandra) is designed to extract the true energy of these explosions and to reveal the activity of their central engines. This effort allows us to: (i) investigate whether sub-energetic GRBs share the same explosion mechanisms and central engines as ordinary GRBs; (ii) investigate what essential physical property enables only a small fraction of supernovae to harbor a relativistic outflow; (iii) understand if jet-driven explosions are common in all SNe. These objectives are only possible by expanding the current small sample of well-observed local GRBs and by drawing comparisons with cosmological GRBs and common SNe.

  18. Thermal stability and kinetics of decomposition of ammonium nitrate in the presence of pyrite.

    PubMed

    Gunawan, Richard; Zhang, Dongke

    2009-06-15

    The interaction between ammonium nitrate based industrial explosives and pyrite-rich minerals in mining operations can lead to the occurrence of spontaneous explosion of the explosives. In an effort to provide a scientific basis for safe applications of industrial explosives in reactive mining grounds containing pyrite, ammonium nitrate decomposition, with and without the presence of pyrite, was studied using a simultaneous Differential Scanning Calorimetry and Thermogravimetric Analyser (DSC-TGA) and a gas-sealed isothermal reactor, respectively. The activation energy and the pre-exponential factor of ammonium nitrate decomposition were determined to be 102.6 kJ mol(-1) and 4.55 x 10(7)s(-1) without the presence of pyrite and 101.8 kJ mol(-1) and 2.57 x 10(9)s(-1) with the presence of pyrite. The kinetics of ammonium nitrate decomposition was then used to calculate the critical temperatures for ammonium nitrate decomposition with and without the presence of pyrite, based on the Frank-Kamenetskii model of thermal explosion. It was shown that the presence of pyrite reduces the temperature for, and accelerates the rate of, decomposition of ammonium nitrate. It was further shown that pyrite can significantly reduce the critical temperature of ammonium nitrate decomposition, causing undesired premature detonation of the explosives. The critical temperature also decreases with increasing diameter of the blast holes charged with the explosive. The concept of using the critical temperature as indication of the thermal stability of the explosives to evaluate the risk of spontaneous explosion was verified in the gas-sealed isothermal reactor experiments.

  19. Dynamic changes in neural circuit topology following mild mechanical injury in vitro.

    PubMed

    Patel, Tapan P; Ventre, Scott C; Meaney, David F

    2012-01-01

    Despite its enormous incidence, mild traumatic brain injury is not well understood. One aspect that needs more definition is how the mechanical energy during injury affects neural circuit function. Recent developments in cellular imaging probes provide an opportunity to assess the dynamic state of neural networks with single-cell resolution. In this article, we developed imaging methods to assess the state of dissociated cortical networks exposed to mild injury. We estimated the imaging conditions needed to achieve accurate measures of network properties, and applied these methodologies to evaluate if mild mechanical injury to cortical neurons produces graded changes to either spontaneous network activity or altered network topology. We found that modest injury produced a transient increase in calcium activity that dissipated within 1 h after injury. Alternatively, moderate mechanical injury produced immediate disruption in network synchrony, loss in excitatory tone, and increased modular topology. A calcium-activated neutral protease (calpain) was a key intermediary in these changes; blocking calpain activation restored the network nearly completely to its pre-injury state. Together, these findings show a more complex change in neural circuit behavior than previously reported for mild mechanical injury, and highlight at least one important early mechanism responsible for these changes.

  20. The Gaseous Explosive Reaction : The Effect of Inert Gases

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Stevens, F W

    1928-01-01

    Attention is called in this report to previous investigations of gaseous explosive reactions carried out under constant volume conditions, where the effect of inert gases on the thermodynamic equilibrium was determined. The advantage of constant pressure methods over those of constant volume as applied to studies of the gaseous explosive reaction is pointed out and the possibility of realizing for this purpose a constant pressure bomb mentioned. The application of constant pressure methods to the study of gaseous explosive reactions, made possible by the use of a constant pressure bomb, led to the discovery of an important kinetic relation connecting the rate of propagation of the zone of explosive reaction within the active gases, with the initial concentrations of those gases: s = K(sub 1)(A)(sup n1)(B)(sup n2)(C)(sup n3)------. By a method analogous to that followed in determining the effect of inert gases on the equilibrium constant K, the present paper records an attempt to determine their kinetic effect upon the expression given above.

  1. The Main Sequence of Explosive Solar Active Regions: Comparison of Emerging and Mature Active Regions

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Falconer, David; Moore, Ron

    2011-01-01

    For mature active regions, an active region s magnetic flux content determines the maximum free energy the active region can have. Most Large flares and CMEs occur in active regions that are near their free-energy limit. Active-region flare power radiated in the GOES 1-8 band increases steeply as the free-energy limit is approached. We infer that the free-energy limit is set by the rate of release of an active region s free magnetic energy by flares, CMEs and coronal heating balancing the maximum rate the Sun can put free energy into the active region s magnetic field. This balance of maximum power results in explosive active regions residing in a "mainsequence" in active-region (flux content, free energy content) phase space, which sequence is analogous to the main sequence of hydrogen-burning stars in (mass, luminosity) phase space.

  2. Dynamics of an open basaltic magma system: The 2008 activity of the Halema‘uma‘u Overlook vent, Kīlauea Caldera

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Eychenne, Julia; Houghton, Bruce F.; Swanson, Don; Carey, Rebecca; Swavely, Lauren

    2015-01-01

    On March 19, 2008 a small explosive event accompanied the opening of a 35-m-wide vent (Overlook vent) on the southeast wall of Halema‘uma‘u Crater in Kīlauea Caldera, initiating an eruptive period that extends to the time of writing. The peak of activity, in 2008, consisted of alternating background open-system outgassing and spattering punctuated by sudden, short-lived weak explosions, triggered by collapses of the walls of the vent and conduit. Near-daily sampling of the tephra from this open system, along with exceptionally detailed observations, allow us to study the dynamics of the activity during two eruptive sequences in late 2008. Each sequence includes background activity preceding and following one or more explosions in September and October 2008 respectively. Componentry analyses were performed for daily samples to characterise the diversity of the ejecta. Nine categories of pyroclasts were identified in all the samples, including wall-rock fragments. The six categories of juvenile clasts can be grouped in three classes based on vesicularity: (1) poorly, (2) uniformly highly to extremely, and (3) heterogeneously highly vesicular. The wall-rock and juvenile clasts show dissimilar grainsize distributions, reflecting different fragmentation mechanisms. The wall-rock particles formed by failure of the vent and conduit walls above the magma free surface and were then passively entrained in the eruptive plume. The juvenile componentry reveals consistent contrasts in degassing and fragmentation processes before, during and after the explosive events. We infer a crude ‘layering’ developed in the shallow melt, in terms of both rheology and bubble and volatile contents, beneath a convecting free surface during background activity. A tens-of-centimetres thick viscoelastic surface layer was effectively outgassed and relatively cool, while at depths of less than 100 m, the melt remained slightly supersaturated in volatiles and actively vesiculating. Decoupled metre-sized bubbles rising through the column burst through the free surface frequently, ejecting fragments of the outgassed upper layer. When the surface was abruptly perturbed by the rock-falls, existing mm-sized bubbles expanded, leading to the acceleration of adjacent melt upward and consecutive explosions, while renewed nucleation created a minor population of 10-micron-sized bubbles. After each explosive event in September–October 2008, this layering was re-established but with decreasing vigour, suggesting that the magma batch as a whole was becoming progressively depleted in dissolved volatiles.

  3. Energetic Residues and Crater Geometries from the Firing of 120-mm High-Explosive Mortar Projectiles into Eagle River Flats, June 2007

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2008-07-01

    samples. ERDC/CRREL TR-08-10 15 c. US DH-48 isokinetic sampler. Figure 7 (cont’d). The second activity was the collection of soil at the...3 0.28 Mc1/3 0.3 Mc1/3 Ra Apparent radius of the crater in meters Mc Mass of the explosive charge in kilograms Da Apparent depth of the crater in... meters The apparent depth and radius of a crater will increase with the depth of explosive charge below the surface down to a maximum depth called

  4. Military-related traumatic brain injury and neurodegeneration

    PubMed Central

    McKee, Ann C.; Robinson, Meghan E.

    2014-01-01

    Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) includes concussion, subconcussion, and most exposures to explosive blast from improvised explosive devices. mTBI is the most common traumatic brain injury affecting military personnel; however, it is the most difficult to diagnose and the least well understood. It is also recognized that some mTBIs have persistent, and sometimes progressive, long-term debilitating effects. Increasing evidence suggests that a single traumatic brain injury can produce long-term gray and white matter atrophy, precipitate or accelerate age-related neurodegeneration, and increase the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and motor neuron disease. In addition, repetitive mTBIs can provoke the development of a tauopathy, chronic traumatic encephalopathy. We found early changes of chronic traumatic encephalopathy in four young veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan conflict who were exposed to explosive blast and in another young veteran who was repetitively concussed. Four of the five veterans with early-stage chronic traumatic encephalopathy were also diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder. Advanced chronic traumatic encephalopathy has been found in veterans who experienced repetitive neurotrauma while in service and in others who were accomplished athletes. Clinically, chronic traumatic encephalopathy is associated with behavioral changes, executive dysfunction, memory loss, and cognitive impairments that begin insidiously and progress slowly over decades. Pathologically, chronic traumatic encephalopathy produces atrophy of the frontal and temporal lobes, thalamus, and hypothalamus; septal abnormalities; and abnormal deposits of hyperphosphorylated tau as neurofibrillary tangles and disordered neurites throughout the brain. The incidence and prevalence of chronic traumatic encephalopathy and the genetic risk factors critical to its development are currently unknown. Chronic traumatic encephalopathy has clinical and pathological features that overlap with postconcussion syndrome and posttraumatic stress disorder, suggesting that the three disorders might share some biological underpinnings. PMID:24924675

  5. Military-related traumatic brain injury and neurodegeneration.

    PubMed

    McKee, Ann C; Robinson, Meghan E

    2014-06-01

    Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) includes concussion, subconcussion, and most exposures to explosive blast from improvised explosive devices. mTBI is the most common traumatic brain injury affecting military personnel; however, it is the most difficult to diagnose and the least well understood. It is also recognized that some mTBIs have persistent, and sometimes progressive, long-term debilitating effects. Increasing evidence suggests that a single traumatic brain injury can produce long-term gray and white matter atrophy, precipitate or accelerate age-related neurodegeneration, and increase the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and motor neuron disease. In addition, repetitive mTBIs can provoke the development of a tauopathy, chronic traumatic encephalopathy. We found early changes of chronic traumatic encephalopathy in four young veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan conflict who were exposed to explosive blast and in another young veteran who was repetitively concussed. Four of the five veterans with early-stage chronic traumatic encephalopathy were also diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder. Advanced chronic traumatic encephalopathy has been found in veterans who experienced repetitive neurotrauma while in service and in others who were accomplished athletes. Clinically, chronic traumatic encephalopathy is associated with behavioral changes, executive dysfunction, memory loss, and cognitive impairments that begin insidiously and progress slowly over decades. Pathologically, chronic traumatic encephalopathy produces atrophy of the frontal and temporal lobes, thalamus, and hypothalamus; septal abnormalities; and abnormal deposits of hyperphosphorylated tau as neurofibrillary tangles and disordered neurites throughout the brain. The incidence and prevalence of chronic traumatic encephalopathy and the genetic risk factors critical to its development are currently unknown. Chronic traumatic encephalopathy has clinical and pathological features that overlap with postconcussion syndrome and posttraumatic stress disorder, suggesting that the three disorders might share some biological underpinnings. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  6. A Novel Schiff Base of 3-acetyl-4-hydroxy-6-methyl-(2H)pyran-2-one and 2,2'-(ethylenedioxy)diethylamine as Potential Corrosion Inhibitor for Mild Steel in Acidic Medium

    PubMed Central

    Asegbeloyin, Jonnie N.; Ejikeme, Paul M.; Olasunkanmi, Lukman O.; Adekunle, Abolanle S.; Ebenso, Eno E.

    2015-01-01

    The corrosion inhibition activity of a newly synthesized Schiff base (SB) from 3-acetyl-4-hydroxy-6-methyl-(2H)-pyran-2-one and 2,2'-(ethylenedioxy)diethylamine was investigated on the corrosion of mild steel in 1 M HCl solution using potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopic techniques. Ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) and Raman spectroscopic techniques were used to study the chemical interactions between SB and mild steel surface. SB was found to be a relatively good inhibitor of mild steel corrosion in 1 M HCl. The inhibition efficiency increases with increase in concentration of SB. The inhibition activity of SB was ascribed to its adsorption onto mild steel surface, through physisorption and chemisorption, and described by the Langmuir adsorption model. Quantum chemical calculations indicated the presence of atomic sites with potential nucleophilic and electrophilic characteristics with which SB can establish electronic interactions with the charged mild steel surface.

  7. Modeling Explosion Induced Aftershocks

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kroll, K.; Ford, S. R.; Pitarka, A.; Walter, W. R.; Richards-Dinger, K. B.

    2017-12-01

    Many traditional earthquake-explosion discrimination tools are based on properties of the seismic waveform or their spectral components. Common discrimination methods include estimates of body wave amplitude ratios, surface wave magnitude scaling, moment tensor characteristics, and depth. Such methods are limited by station coverage and noise. Ford and Walter (2010) proposed an alternate discrimination method based on using properties of aftershock sequences as a means of earthquakeexplosion differentiation. Previous studies have shown that explosion sources produce fewer aftershocks that are generally smaller in magnitude compared to aftershocks of similarly sized earthquake sources (Jarpe et al., 1994, Ford and Walter, 2010). It has also been suggested that the explosion-induced aftershocks have smaller Gutenberg- Richter b-values (Ryall and Savage, 1969) and that their rates decay faster than a typical Omori-like sequence (Gross, 1996). To discern whether these observations are generally true of explosions or are related to specific site conditions (e.g. explosion proximity to active faults, tectonic setting, crustal stress magnitudes) would require a thorough global analysis. Such a study, however, is hindered both by lack of evenly distributed explosion-sources and the availability of global seismicity data. Here, we employ two methods to test the efficacy of explosions at triggering aftershocks under a variety of physical conditions. First, we use the earthquake rate equations from Dieterich (1994) to compute the rate of aftershocks related to an explosion source assuming a simple spring-slider model. We compare seismicity rates computed with these analytical solutions to those produced by the 3D, multi-cycle earthquake simulator, RSQSim. We explore the relationship between geological conditions and the characteristics of the resulting explosion-induced aftershock sequence. We also test hypothesis that aftershock generation is dependent upon the frequency content of the passing dynamic seismic waves as suggested by Parsons and Velasco (2009). Lastly, we compare all results of explosion-induced aftershocks with aftershocks generated by similarly sized earthquake sources. Prepared by LLNL under Contract DE-AC52-07NA27344.

  8. Small explosive volcanic plume dynamics: insights from feature tracking velocimetry at Santiaguito lava dome

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Benage, M. C.; Andrews, B. J.

    2016-12-01

    Volcanic explosions eject turbulent, transient jets of hot volcanic gas and particles into the atmosphere. Though the jet of hot material is initially negatively buoyant, the jet can become buoyant through entrainment and subsequent thermal expansion of entrained air that allows the eruptive plume to rise several kilometers. Although basic plume structure is qualitatively well known, the velocity field and dynamic structure of volcanic plumes are not well quantified. An accurate and quantitative description of volcanic plumes is essential for hazard assessments, such as if the eruption will form a buoyant plume that will affect aviation or produce dangerous pyroclastic density currents. Santa Maria volcano, in Guatemala, provides the rare opportunity to safely capture video of Santiaguito lava dome explosions and small eruptive plumes. In January 2016, two small explosions (< 2 km) that lasted several minutes and with little cloud obstruction were recorded for image analysis. The volcanic plume structure is analyzed through sequential image frames from the video where specific features are tracked using a feature tracking velocimetry (FTV) algorithm. The FTV algorithm quantifies the 2D apparent velocity fields along the surface of the plume throughout the duration of the explosion. Image analysis of small volcanic explosions allows us to examine the maximum apparent velocities at two heights above the dome surface, 0-25 meters, where the explosions first appear, and 100-125 meters. Explosions begin with maximum apparent velocities of <15 m/s. We find at heights near the dome surface and 10 seconds after explosion initiation, the maximum apparent velocities transition to sustained velocities of 5-15 m/s. At heights 100-125 meters above the dome surface, the apparent velocities transition to sustained velocities of 5-15 m/s after 25 seconds. Throughout the explosion, transient velocity maximums can exceed 40 m/s at both heights. Here, we provide novel quantification and description of turbulent surface velocity fields of explosive volcanic eruptions at active lava domes.

  9. Influence of Axisymmetrically Deformed Explosions in Type II Supernovae on the Reproduction of the Solar System Abundances

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nagataki, Shigehiro

    1999-01-01

    We have tried to reproduce the solar system abundances using the nucleosynthesis products of Type Ia and Type II supernovae. In particular, we examined the effects of axisymmetrically deformed explosions in Type II supernovae. 44Ca and 47,48Ti are enhanced considerably in axisymmetrically deformed explosion models because of the active alpha-rich freezeout. The enhancement of nuclei around A=45 is a welcome result since it solves the problem of the nuclei shortage. Moreover, 59Co, 63,65Cu, and 66Zn are enhanced enough to reproduce the solar system abundances. The enhancement of Cu and Zn means the possibility that these nuclei, which have been said to be produced by the slow process, can be synthesized fairly well during the explosive nucleosynthesis. To discuss their origin quantitatively, the position of the mass cut is a very important parameter that is very difficult to determine numerically at present. We also stress that an axisymmetrically deformed explosion of Type II supernovae of the degree that is considered in this analysis is not excluded by the results of calculations of explosive nucleosynthesis, that is, the nucleosynthesis products are not extremely disturbed and the solar system abundances can be reproduced fairly well by the axisymmetrically deformed explosion models. This conclusion will be good for the theory of core collapse including the rotation of an iron core, magnetic field, and axisymmetrically modified neutrino radiation from a rotating protoneutron star, which possibly can cause an axisymmetrically deformed explosion.

  10. Perspectives on repeated low-level blast and the measurement of neurotrauma in humans as an occupational exposure risk

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Carr, W.; Dell, K. C.; Yanagi, M. A.; Hassan, D. M.; LoPresti, M. L.

    2017-11-01

    A pressing question in military medical research is the nature and degree of effects on the human brain from occupational repeated exposure to low-level explosive blast, but reliable and effective means to objectively measure such effects remain elusive. In survey results, headache, difficulty sleeping, irritability, cognitive impairment, and a variety of other symptoms consistent with post-concussive syndrome have been reported by those exposed to blast and there was positive correlation between degree of blast exposure and degree of symptomology, but an important goal is to obtain more objective evidence of an effect than self-report alone. This review reflects recent efforts to measure and evaluate such hypothesized effects and current recommendations for ongoing study. Optimal measures are likely those with sensitivity and specificity to systemic effects in mild neurotrauma, that have minimal to no volitional component, and that can be sampled relatively quickly with minimal intrusion in prospective, observational field studies during routine training with explosives. An understanding of an association between parameters of exposure to repeated low-level blast and negative neurologic effects would support the evaluation of clinical implications and development of protective equipment and surveillance protocols where warranted. At present, low-level blast exposure surveillance measurements do not exist as a systematic record for any professional community.

  11. Blueberry polyphenol oxidase: Characterization and the kinetics of thermal and high pressure activation and inactivation.

    PubMed

    Terefe, Netsanet Shiferaw; Delon, Antoine; Buckow, Roman; Versteeg, Cornelis

    2015-12-01

    Partially purified blueberry polyphenol oxidase (PPO) in Mcllvaine buffer (pH=3.6, typical pH of blueberry juice) was subjected to processing at isothermal-isobaric conditions at temperatures from 30 to 80 °C and pressure from 0.1 to 700 MPa. High pressure processing at 30-50 °C at all pressures studied caused irreversible PPO activity increase with a maximum of 6.1 fold increase at 500 MPa and 30 °C. Treatments at mild pressure-mild temperature conditions (0.1-400 MPa, 60 °C) also caused up to 3 fold PPO activity increase. Initial activity increase followed by a decrease occurred at relatively high pressure-mild temperature (400-600 MPa, 60 °C) and mild pressure-high temperature (0.1-400 MPa, 70-80 °C) combinations. At temperatures higher than 76 °C, monotonic decrease in PPO activity occurred at 0.1 MPa and pressures higher than 500 MPa. The activation/inactivation kinetics of the enzyme was successfully modelled assuming consecutive reactions in series with activation followed by inactivation. Crown Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  12. Optimization of biological and instrumental detection of explosives and ignitable liquid residues including canines, SPME/ITMS and GC/MSn

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Furton, Kenneth G.; Harper, Ross J.; Perr, Jeannette M.; Almirall, Jose R.

    2003-09-01

    A comprehensive study and comparison is underway using biological detectors and instrumental methods for the rapid detection of ignitable liquid residues (ILR) and high explosives. Headspace solid phase microextraction (SPME) has been demonstrated to be an effective sampling method helping to identify active odor signature chemicals used by detector dogs to locate forensic specimens as well as a rapid pre-concentration technique prior to instrumental detection. Common ignitable liquids and common military and industrial explosives have been studied including trinitrotoluene, tetryl, RDX, HMX, EGDN, PETN and nitroglycerine. This study focuses on identifying volatile odor signature chemicals present, which can be used to enhance the level and reliability of detection of ILR and explosives by canines and instrumental methods. While most instrumental methods currently in use focus on particles and on parent organic compounds, which are often involatile, characteristic volatile organics are generally also present and can be exploited to enhance detection particularly for well-concealed devices. Specific examples include the volatile odor chemicals 2-ethyl-1-hexanol and cyclohexanone, which are readily available in the headspace of the high explosive composition C-4; whereas, the active chemical cyclo-1,3,5-trimethylene-2,4,6-trinitramine (RDX) is not. The analysis and identification of these headspace 'fingerprint' organics is followed by double-blind dog trials of the individual components using certified teams in an attempt to isolate and understand the target compounds to which dogs are sensitive. Studies to compare commonly used training aids with the actual target explosive have also been undertaken to determine their suitability and effectiveness. The optimization of solid phase microextraction (SPME) combined with ion trap mobility spectrometry (ITMS) and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (GC/MSn) is detailed including interface development and comparisons of limits of detection. These instrumental methods are being optimized in order to detect the same target odor chemicals used by detector dogs to reliably locate explosives and ignitable liquids.

  13. Lattice Boltzmann modeling to explain volcano acoustic source.

    PubMed

    Brogi, Federico; Ripepe, Maurizio; Bonadonna, Costanza

    2018-06-22

    Acoustic pressure is largely used to monitor explosive activity at volcanoes and has become one of the most promising technique to monitor volcanoes also at large scale. However, no clear relation between the fluid dynamics of explosive eruptions and the associated acoustic signals has yet been defined. Linear acoustic has been applied to derive source parameters in the case of strong explosive eruptions which are well-known to be driven by large overpressure of the magmatic fluids. Asymmetric acoustic waveforms are generally considered as the evidence for supersonic explosive dynamics also for small explosive regimes. We have used Lattice-Boltzmann modeling of the eruptive fluid dynamics to analyse the acoustic wavefield produced by different flow regimes. We demonstrate that acoustic waveform well reproduces the flow dynamics of a subsonic fluid injection related to discrete explosive events. Different volumetric flow rate, at low-Mach regimes, can explain both the observed symmetric and asymmetric waveform. Hence, asymmetric waveforms are not necessarily related to the shock/supersonic fluid dynamics of the source. As a result, we highlight an ambiguity in the general interpretation of volcano acoustic signals for the retrieval of key eruption source parameters, necessary for a reliable volcanic hazard assessment.

  14. Eruption History of Cone D: Implications for Current and Future Activity at Okmok Caldera

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Beget, J.; Almberg, L.; Faust-Larsen, J.; Neal, C.

    2008-12-01

    Cone B at Okmok Caldera erupted in 1817, and since then activity has beeen centered in and around Cone A in the SW part of Okmok Caldera. However, prior to 1817 at least a half dozen other eruptive centers were active at various times within the caldera. Cone D was active between ca. 2000-1500 yr BP., and underwent at least two separate intervals characterized by violent hydromagmatic explosions and surge production followed by the construction of extensive lava deltas in a 150-m-deep intra-caldera lake. Reconstructions of cone morphology indicate the hydromagmatic explosions occurred when lake levels were shallow or when the eruptive cones had grown to reach the surface of the intra-caldera lake. The effusion rate over this interval averaged several million cubic meters of lava per year, implying even higher outputs during the actual eruptive episodes. At least two dozen tephra deposits on the volcano flanks date to this interval, and record frequent explosive eruptions. The pyroclastic flows and surges from Cone D and nearby cones extend as far as 14 kilometers from the caldera rim, where dozens of such deposits are preserved in a section as much as 6 m thick at a distance of 8 km beyond the rim. A hydromagmatic explosive eruption at ca. 1500 yr BP generated very large floods and resulted in the draining of the caldera lake. The 2008 hydromagmatic explosive eruptions in the Cone D area caused by interactions with lake water resulted in the generation of surges, floods and lahars that are smaller but quite similar in style to the prehistoric eruptions at Cone E ca. 2000-1500 yr BP. The style and magnitude of future eruptions at vents around Cone D will depend strongly on the evolution of the intra-caldera lake system.

  15. Radionuclide observables for the Platte underground nuclear explosive test on 14 April 1962.

    PubMed

    Burnett, Jonathan L; Milbrath, Brian D

    2016-11-01

    Past nuclear weapon explosive tests provide invaluable information for understanding the radionuclide observables expected during an On-site Inspection (OSI) for the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT). These radioactive signatures are complex and subject to spatial and temporal variability. The Platte underground nuclear explosive test on 14 April 1962 provides extensive environmental monitoring data that can be modelled and used to calculate the maximum time available for detection of the OSI-relevant radionuclides. The 1.6 kT test is especially useful as it released the highest amounts of recorded activity during Operation Nougat at the Nevada Test Site - now known as the Nevada National Security Site (NNSS). It has been estimated that 0.36% of the activity was released, and dispersed in a northerly direction. The deposition ranged from 1 × 10 -11 to 1 × 10 -9 of the atmospheric release (per m 2 ), and has been used in this paper to evaluate an OSI and the OSI-relevant radionuclides at 1 week to 2 years post-detonation. Radioactive decay reduces the activity of the OSI-relevant radionuclides by 99.7% within 2 years of detonation, such that detection throughout the hypothesized inspection is only achievable close to the explosion where deposition was highest. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  16. Performance of an improved thermal neutron activation detector for buried bulk explosives

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    McFee, J. E.; Faust, A. A.; Andrews, H. R.; Clifford, E. T. H.; Mosquera, C. M.

    2013-06-01

    First generation thermal neutron activation (TNA) sensors, employing an isotopic source and NaI(Tl) gamma ray detectors, were deployed by Canadian Forces in 2002 as confirmation sensors on multi-sensor landmine detection systems. The second generation TNA detector is being developed with a number of improvements aimed at increasing sensitivity and facilitating ease of operation. Among these are an electronic neutron generator to increase sensitivity for deeper and horizontally displaced explosives; LaBr3(Ce) scintillators, to improve time response and energy resolution; improved thermal and electronic stability; improved sensor head geometry to minimize spatial response nonuniformity; and more robust data processing. The sensor is described, with emphasis on the improvements. Experiments to characterize the performance of the second generation TNA in detecting buried landmines and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) hidden in culverts are described. Performance results, including comparisons between the performance of the first and second generation systems are presented.

  17. Analysis of dynamics of vulcanian activity of Ubinas volcano, using multicomponent seismic antennas

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Inza, L. A.; Métaxian, J. P.; Mars, J. I.; Bean, C. J.; O'Brien, G. S.; Macedo, O.; Zandomeneghi, D.

    2014-01-01

    A series of 16 vulcanian explosions occurred at Ubinas volcano between May 24 and June 14, 2009. The intervals between explosions were from 2.1 h to more than 6 days (mean interval, 33 h). Considering only the first nine explosions, the average time interval was 7.8 h. Most of the explosions occurred after a short time interval (< 8 h) and had low energy, which suggests that the refilling time was not sufficient for large accumulation of gas. A tremor episode followed 75% of the explosions, which coincided with pulses of ash emission. The durations of the tremors following the explosions were longer for the two highest energy explosions. To better understand the physical processes associated with these eruptive events, we localized the sources of explosions using two seismic antennas that were composed of three-component 10 and 12 sensors. We used the high-resolution MUSIC-3C algorithm to estimate the slowness vector for the first waves that composed the explosion signals recorded by the two antennas assuming propagation in a homogeneous medium. The initial part of the explosions was dominated by two frequencies, at 1.1 Hz and 1.5 Hz, for which we identified two separated sources located at 4810 m and 3890 m +/- 390 altitude, respectively. The position of these two sources was the same for the full 16 explosions. This implies the reproduction of similar mechanisms in the conduit. Based on the eruptive mechanisms proposed for other volcanoes of the same type, we interpret the position of these two sources as the limits of the conduit portion that was involved in the fragmentation process. Seismic data and ground deformation recorded simultaneously less than 2 km from the crater showed a decompression movement 2 s prior to each explosion. This movement can be interpreted as gas leakage at the level of the cap before its destruction. The pressure drop generated in the conduit could be the cause of the fragmentation process that propagated deeper. Based on these observations, we interpret the position of the highest source as the part of the conduit under the cap, and the deeper source as the limit of the fragmentation zone.

  18. Activity restriction in mild COPD: a challenging clinical problem

    PubMed Central

    O’Donnell, Denis E; Gebke, Kevin B

    2014-01-01

    Dyspnea, exercise intolerance, and activity restriction are already apparent in mild chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, patients may not seek medical help until their symptoms become troublesome and persistent and significant respiratory impairment is already present; as a consequence, further sustained physical inactivity may contribute to disease progression. Ventilatory and gas exchange impairment, cardiac dysfunction, and skeletal muscle dysfunction are present to a variable degree in patients with mild COPD, and collectively may contribute to exercise intolerance. As such, there is increasing interest in evaluating exercise tolerance and physical activity in symptomatic patients with COPD who have mild airway obstruction, as defined by spirometry. Simple questionnaires, eg, the modified British Medical Research Council dyspnea scale and the COPD Assessment Test, or exercise tests, eg, the 6-minute or incremental and endurance exercise tests can be used to assess exercise performance and functional status. Pedometers and accelerometers are used to evaluate physical activity, and endurance tests (cycle or treadmill) using constant work rate protocols are used to assess the effects of interventions such as pulmonary rehabilitation. In addition, alternative outcome measurements, such as tests of small airway dysfunction and laboratory-based exercise tests, are used to measure the extent of physiological impairment in individuals with persistent dyspnea. This review describes the mechanisms of exercise limitation in patients with mild COPD and the interventions that can potentially improve exercise tolerance. Also discussed are the benefits of pulmonary rehabilitation and the potential role of pharmacologic treatment in symptomatic patients with mild COPD. PMID:24940054

  19. Wireless system for explosion detection in underground structures

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chikhradze, M.; Bochorishvili, N.; Akhvlediani, I.; Kukhalashvili, D.; Kalichava, I.; Mataradze, E.

    2009-06-01

    Considering the growing threat of terrorist or accidental explosions in underground stations, underground highway and railway sections improvement of system for protecting people from explosions appears urgent. Current automatic protective devices with blast identification module and blast damping absorbers of various designs as their basic elements cannot be considered effective. Analysis revealed that low reliability of blast detection and delayed generation of start signal for the activation of an absorber are the major disadvantages of protective devices. Besides the transmission of trigger signal to an energy absorber through cable communication reduces the reliability of the operation of protective device due to a possible damage of electric wiring under blast or mechanical attack. This paper presents the outcomes of the studies conducted to select accurate criteria for blast identification and to design wireless system of activation of defensive device. The results of testing of blast detection methods (seismic, EMP, optical, on overpressure) showed that the proposed method, which implies constant monitoring of overpressure in terms of its reliability and response speed, best meets the requirements. Proposed wireless system for explosions identification and activation of protective device consists of transmitter and receiver modules. Transmitter module contains sensor and microprocessor equipped with blast identification software. Receiver module produces activation signal for operation of absorber. Tests were performed in the underground experimental base of Mining Institute. The time between the moment of receiving signal by the sensor and activation of absorber - 640 microsecond; distance between transmitter and receiver in direct tunnel - at least 150m; in tunnel with 900 bending - 50m. This research is sponsored by NATO's Public Diplomacy Division in the framework of "Science for Peace".

  20. Determining Volcanic Deformation at San Miguel Volcano, El Salvador by Integrating Radar Interferometry and Seismic Analyses

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Schiek, C. G.; Hurtado, J. M.; Velasco, A. A.; Buckley, S. M.; Escobar, D.

    2008-12-01

    From the early 1900's to the present day, San Miguel volcano has experienced many small eruptions and several periods of heightened seismic activity, making it one of the most active volcanoes in the El Salvadoran volcanic chain. Prior to 1969, the volcano experienced many explosive eruptions with Volcano Explosivity Indices (VEI) of 2. Since then, eruptions have decreased in intensity to an average VEI of 1. Eruptions mostly consist of phreatic explosions and central vent eruptions. Due to the explosive nature of this volcano, it is important to study the origins of the volcanism and its relationship to surface deformation and earthquake activity. We analyze these interactions by integrating interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) results with earthquake source location data from a ten-month (March 2007-January 2008) seismic deployment. The InSAR results show a maximum of 7 cm of volcanic inflation from March 2007 to mid-October 2007. During this time, seismic activity increased to a Real-time Seismic-Amplitude Measurement (RSAM) value of >400. Normal RSAM values for this volcano are <50. A period of quiescence began in mid-October 2007, and a maximum of 6 cm of deflation was observed in the interferometry results from 19 October 2007 to 19 January 2008. A clustering of at least 25 earthquakes that occurred between March 2007 and January 2008 suggests a fault zone through the center of the San Miguel volcanic cone. This fault zone is most likely where dyke propagation is occurring. Source mechanisms will be determined for the earthquakes associated with this fault zone, and they will be compared to the InSAR deformation field to determine if the mid-October seismic activity and observed surface deformation are compatible.

  1. Visualizing Hyperactivation in Neurodegeneration Based on Prefrontal Oxygenation: A Comparative Study of Mild Alzheimer's Disease, Mild Cognitive Impairment, and Healthy Controls

    PubMed Central

    Yap, Kah Hui; Ung, Wei Chun; Ebenezer, Esther G. M.; Nordin, Nadira; Chin, Pui See; Sugathan, Sandheep; Chan, Sook Ching; Yip, Hung Loong; Kiguchi, Masashi; Tang, Tong Boon

    2017-01-01

    Background: Cognitive performance is relatively well preserved during early cognitive impairment owing to compensatory mechanisms. Methods: We explored functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) alongside a semantic verbal fluency task (SVFT) to investigate any compensation exhibited by the prefrontal cortex (PFC) in Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and mild Alzheimer's disease (AD). In addition, a group of healthy controls (HC) was studied. A total of 61 volunteers (31 HC, 12 patients with MCI and 18 patients with mild AD) took part in the present study. Results: Although not statistically significant, MCI exhibited a greater mean activation of both the right and left PFC, followed by HC and mild AD. Analysis showed that in the left PFC, the time taken for HC to achieve the activation level was shorter than MCI and mild AD (p = 0.0047 and 0.0498, respectively); in the right PFC, mild AD took a longer time to achieve the activation level than HC and MCI (p = 0.0469 and 0.0335, respectively); in the right PFC, HC, and MCI demonstrated a steeper slope compared to mild AD (p = 0.0432 and 0. 0107, respectively). The results were, however, not significant when corrected by the Bonferroni-Holm method. There was also found to be a moderately positive correlation (R = 0.5886) between the oxygenation levels in the left PFC and a clinical measure [Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score] in MCI subjects uniquely. Discussion: The hyperactivation in MCI coupled with a better SVFT performance may suggest neural compensation, although it is not known to what degree hyperactivation manifests as a potential indicator of compensatory mechanisms. However, hypoactivation plus a poorer SVFT performance in mild AD might indicate an inability to compensate due to the degree of structural impairment. Conclusion: Consistent with the scaffolding theory of aging and cognition, the task-elicited hyperactivation in MCI might reflect the presence of compensatory mechanisms and hypoactivation in mild AD could reflect an inability to compensate. Future studies will investigate the fNIRS parameters with a larger sample size, and their validity as prognostic biomarkers of neurodegeneration. PMID:28919856

  2. Model mice for mild-form glycine encephalopathy: behavioral and biochemical characterizations and efficacy of antagonists for the glycine binding site of N-methyl D-aspartate receptor.

    PubMed

    Kojima-ishii, Kanako; Kure, Shigeo; Ichinohe, Akiko; Shinka, Toshikatsu; Narisawa, Ayumi; Komatsuzaki, Shoko; Kanno, Junnko; Kamada, Fumiaki; Aoki, Yoko; Yokoyama, Hiroyuki; Oda, Masaya; Sugawara, Taku; Mizoi, Kazuo; Nakahara, Daiichiro; Matsubara, Yoichi

    2008-09-01

    Glycine encephalopathy (GE) is caused by an inherited deficiency of the glycine cleavage system (GCS) and characterized by accumulation of glycine in body fluids and various neurologic symptoms. Coma and convulsions develop in neonates in typical GE while psychomotor retardation and behavioral abnormalities in infancy and childhood are observed in mild GE. Recently, we have established a transgenic mouse line (low-GCS) with reduced GCS activity (29% of wild-type (WT) C57BL/6) and accumulation of glycine in the brain (Stroke, 2007; 38:2157). The purpose of the present study is to characterize behavioral features of the low-GCS mouse as a model of mild GE. Two other transgenic mouse lines were also analyzed: high-GCS mice with elevated GCS activity and low-GCS-2 mice with reduced GCS activity. As compared with controls, low-GCS mice manifested increased seizure susceptibility, aggressiveness and anxiety-like activity, which resembled abnormal behaviors reported in mild GE, whereas high-GCS mice were less sensitive to seizures, hypoactive and less anxious. Antagonists for the glycine-binding site of the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor significantly ameliorated elevated locomotor activity and seizure susceptibility in the low-GCS mice. Our results suggest the usefulness of low-GCS mice as a mouse model for mild GE and a novel therapeutic strategy.

  3. Technology-Aided Verbal Instructions to Help Persons with Mild or Moderate Alzheimer's Disease Perform Daily Activities

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lancioni, Giulio E.; Singh, Nirbhay N.; O'Reilly, Mark F.; Sigafoos, Jeff; Tatulli, Emanuela; Rigante, Valeria; Zonno, Nadia; Perilli, Viviana; Pinto, Katia; Minervini, Mauro G.

    2010-01-01

    These two studies extended previous research on the use of verbal instructions and support technology for helping persons with mild or moderate Alzheimer's disease perform daily activities. Study I included seven participants who were to carry out one of two previously targeted activities (i.e., either coffee preparation or table setting). Study…

  4. Hydrothermal and tectonic activity in northern Yellowstone Lake, Wyoming

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Johnson, S.Y.; Stephenson, W.J.; Morgan, L.A.; Shanks, Wayne C.; Pierce, K.L.

    2003-01-01

    Yellowstone National Park is the site of one of the world's largest calderas. The abundance of geothermal and tectonic activity in and around the caldera, including historic uplift and subsidence, makes it necessary to understand active geologic processes and their associated hazards. To that end, we here use an extensive grid of high-resolution seismic reflection profiles (???450 km) to document hydrothermal and tectonic features and deposits in northern Yellowstone Lake. Sublacustrine geothermal features in northern Yellowstone Lake include two of the largest known hydrothermal explosion craters, Mary Bay and Elliott's. Mary Bay explosion breccia is distributed uniformly around the crater, whereas Elliott's crater breccia has an asymmetric distribution and forms a distinctive, ???2-km-long, hummocky lobe on the lake floor. Hydrothermal vents and low-relief domes are abundant on the lake floor; their greatest abundance is in and near explosion craters and along linear fissures. Domed areas on the lake floor that are relatively unbreached (by vents) are considered the most likely sites of future large hydrothermal explosions. Four submerged shoreline terraces along the margins of northern Yellowstone Lake add to the Holocene record or postglacial lake-level fluctuations attributed to "heavy breathing" of the Yellowstone magma reservoir and associated geothermal system. The Lake Hotel fault cuts through northwestern Yellowstone Lake and represents part of a 25-km-long distributed extensional deformation zone. Three postglacial ruptures indicate a slip rate of ???0.27 to 0.34 mm/yr. The largest (3.0 m slip) and most recent event occurred in the past ???2100 yr. Although high heat flow in the crust limits the rupture area of this fault zone, future earthquakes of magnitude ???5.3 to 6.5 are possible. Earthquakes and hydrothermal explosions have probably triggered landslides, common features around the lake margins. Few high-resolution seismic reflection surveys have been conducted in lakes in active volcanic areas. Our data reveal active geothermal features with unprecedented resolution and provide important analogues for recognition of comparable features and potential hazards in other subaqueous geothermal environments.

  5. Modulation of the tissue reninangiotensin-aldosterone system in dogs with chronic mild regurgitation through the mitral valve.

    PubMed

    Fujii, Yoko; Orito, Kensuke; Muto, Makoto; Wakao, Yoshito

    2007-10-01

    To investigate whether the tissue and plasma renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) is activated in dogs with mild regurgitation through the mitral valve and determine the contribution of chymase and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) to the activation of the RAAS and potential production of angiotensin II during the chronic stage of mild mitral valve regurgitation. 5 Beagles with experimentally induced mild mitral valve regurgitation and 6 clinically normal (control) Beagles. Tissue ACE and chymase-like activities and plasma RAAS were measured and the RAAS evaluated approximately 1,000 days after experimental induction of mitral valve regurgitation in the 5 dogs. Dogs with experimentally induced mitral valve regurgitation did not have clinical signs of the condition, although echocardiography revealed substantial eccentric hyper- trophy. On the basis of these findings, dogs with mitral valve regurgitation were classified as International Small Animal Cardiac Health Council class Ib. Plasma activity of renin and plasma concentrations of angiotensin I, angiotensin II, and aldosterone were not significantly different between dogs with mitral valve regurgitation and clinically normal dogs. Tissue ACE activity was significantly increased and chymase-like activity significantly decreased in dogs with mitral valve regurgitation, compared with values in clinically normal dogs. The tissue RAAS was modulated without changes in the plasma RAAS in dogs with mild mitral valve regurgitation during the chronic stage of the condition. An ACE-dependent pathway may be a major route for production of angiotensin II during this stage of the condition.

  6. MiDAS ENCORE: Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial Report of 6-Month Results.

    PubMed

    Staats, Peter S; Benyamin, Ramsin M

    2016-02-01

    Patients suffering from neurogenic claudication due to lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) often experience moderate to severe pain and significant functional disability. Neurogenic claudication results from progressive degenerative changes in the spine, and most often affects the elderly. Both the MILD® procedure and epidural steroid injections (ESIs) offer interventional pain treatment options for LSS patients experiencing neurogenic claudication refractory to more conservative therapies. MILD provides an alternative to ESIs via minimally invasive lumbar decompression. Prospective, multi-center, randomized controlled clinical trial. Twenty-six US interventional pain management centers. To compare patient outcomes following treatment with either MILD (treatment group) or ESIs (active control group) in LSS patients with neurogenic claudication and verified ligamentum flavum hypertrophy. This prospective, multi-center, randomized controlled clinical trial includes 2 study arms with a 1-to-1 randomization ratio. A total of 302 patients were enrolled, with 149 randomized to MILD and 153 to the active control. Six-month follow-up has been completed and is presented in this report. In addition, one year follow-up will be conducted for patients in both study arms, and supplementary 2 year outcome data will be collected for patients in the MILD group only. Outcomes are assessed using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), numeric pain rating scale (NPRS) and Zurich Claudication Questionnaire (ZCQ). Primary efficacy is the proportion of ODI responders, tested for statistical superiority of the MILD group versus the active control group. ODI responders are defined as patients achieving the validated Minimal Important Change (MIC) of =10 point improvement in ODI from baseline to follow-up. Similarly, secondary efficacy includes proportion of NPRS and ZCQ responders using validated MIC thresholds. Primary safety is the incidence of device or procedure-related adverse events in each group. At 6 months, all primary and secondary efficacy results provided statistically significant evidence that MILD is superior to the active control. For primary efficacy, the proportion of ODI responders in the MILD group (62.2%) was statistically significantly higher than for the epidural steroid group (35.7%) (P < 0.001). Further, all secondary efficacy parameters demonstrated statistical superiority of MILD versus the active control. The primary safety endpoint was achieved, demonstrating that there is no difference in safety between MILD and ESIs (P = 1.00). Limitations include lack of patient blinding due to considerable differences in treatment protocols, and a potentially higher non-responder rate for both groups versus standard-of-care due to study restrictions on adjunctive pain therapies. Six month follow-up data from this trial demonstrate that the MILD procedure is statistically superior to epidural steroids, a known active treatment for LSS patients with neurogenic claudication and verified central stenosis due to ligamentum flavum hypertrophy. The results of all primary and secondary efficacy outcome measures achieved statistically superior outcomes in the MILD group versus ESIs. Further, there were no statistically significant differences in the safety profile between study groups. This prospective, multi-center, randomized controlled clinical trial provides strong evidence of the effectiveness of MILD versus epidural steroids in this patient population. NCT02093520.

  7. Health-Related Physical Fitness, BMI, physical activity and time spent at a computer screen in 6 and 7-year-old children from rural areas in Poland.

    PubMed

    Cieśla, Elżbieta; Mleczko, Edward; Bergier, Józef; Markowska, Małgorzata; Nowak-Starz, Grażyna

    2014-01-01

    The objective of the study was determination of the effect of various forms of physical activity, BMI, and time devoted to computer games on the level of Health-Related Physical Fitness (H-RF) in 6-7-year-old children from Polish rural areas. The study covered 25,816 children aged 6-7: 12,693 girls and 13,123 boys. The evaluations included body height and weight, and 4 H-RF fitness components (trunk strength, explosive leg power, arm strength and flexibility). The BMI was calculated for each child. The Questionnaire directed to parents was designed to collect information concerning the time devoted by children to computer games, spontaneous and additional physical activity. The strength of the relationships between dependent and independent variables was determined using the Spearman's rank correlation (RSp), and the relationship by using the regression analysis. The BMI negatively affected the level of all the H-RF components analysed (p=0.000). The negative effect of computer games revealed itself only with respect to flexibility (p=0.000), explosive leg power (p=0.000) and trunk muscle strength (p=0.000). A positive effect of spontaneous activity was observed for flexibility (p=0.047), explosive leg power (p=0.000), and arm strength (p=0.000). Additional activity showed a positive relationship with trunk muscles strength (p=0.000), and explosive leg power (p=0.000). The results of studies suggest that it is necessary to pay attention to the prevention of diseases related with the risk of obesity and overweight among Polish rural children as early as at pre-school age. There is also a need during education for shaping in these children the awareness of concern about own body, and the need for active participation in various forms of physical activity.

  8. Are There Spatial or Temporal Patterns to Holocene Explosive Eruptions in the Aleutian Archipelago? A Work in Progress

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Martin, C.; Nicolaysen, K. P.; McConville, K.; Hatfield, V.; West, D.

    2013-12-01

    By examining the existing geological and archeological record of radiocarbon dated Aleutian tephras of the last 12,000 years, this study sought to determine whether there were spatial or temporal patterns of explosive eruptive activity. The Holocene tephra record has important implications because two episodes of migration and colonization by humans of distinct cultures established the Unangan/Aleut peoples of the Aleutian Islands concurrently with the volcanic activity. From Aniakchak Volcano on the Alaska Peninsula to the Andreanof Islands (158 to 178° W longitude), 55 distinct tephras represent significant explosive eruptions of the last 12,000 years. Initial results suggest that the Andreanof and Fox Island regions of the archipelago have had frequent explosive eruptions whereas the Islands of Four Mountains, Rat, and Near Island regions have apparently had little or no eruptive activity. However, one clear result of the investigation is that sampling bias strongly influences the apparent spatial patterns. For example field reconnaissance in the Islands of Four Mountains documents two Holocene calderas and a minimum of 20 undated tephras in addition to the large ignimbrites. Only the lack of significant explosive activity in the Near Islands seems a valid spatial result as archeological excavations and geologic reports failed to document Holocene tephras there. An intriguing preliminary temporal pattern is the apparent absence of large explosive eruptions across the archipelago from ca. 4,800 to 6,000 yBP. To test the validity of apparent patterns, a statistical treatment of the compiled data grappled with the sampling bias by considering three confounding variables: larger island size allows more opportunity for geologic preservation of tephras; larger magnitude eruption promotes tephra preservation by creating thicker and more widespread deposits; the comprehensiveness of the tephra sampling of each volcano and island varies widely because of logistical and financial limitations. This initial statistical investigation proposes variables to mitigate the effects of sampling bias and makes recommendations for sampling strategies to enable statistically valid examination of research questions. Further, though caldera-forming eruptions occurred throughout the Holocene - and several remain undated - four of six dated eruptions occurred throughout the archipelago between 8,000-9,100 yBP, a period coinciding with some of the earliest human occupation (Early Anangula Phase) of the eastern Aleutians.

  9. Vibrational spectroscopy standoff detection of threat chemicals

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ortiz-Rivera, William; Pacheco-Londoño, Leonardo C.; Castro-Suarez, John R.; Felix-Rivera, Hilsamar; Hernandez-Rivera, Samuel P.

    2011-06-01

    Spectroscopy based standoff detection systems: Raman and FTIR have been tested for detection of threat chemicals, including highly energetic materials, homemade explosives, explosives formulations and high explosives mixtures. Other threat chemicals studied included toxic industrial compounds (TIC) and chemical agent simulants. Microorganisms and biological threat agent simulants have also been detected at standoff distances. Open Path FTIR has been used to detect vapors and chemicals deposited on metal surfaces at μg/cm2 levels at distances as far as 30 m in active mode and 60 m in passive mode. In the case of Raman telescope, standoff distances for acetonitrile and ammonium nitrate were 140 m.

  10. Mesoscopic simulations of shock-to-detonation transition in reactive liquid high explosive

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Maillet, J. B.; Bourasseau, E.; Desbiens, N.; Vallverdu, G.; Stoltz, G.

    2011-12-01

    An extension of the model described in a previous work (see Maillet J. B. et al., EPL, 78 (2007) 68001) based on Dissipative Particle Dynamics is presented and applied to a liquid high explosive (HE), with thermodynamic properties mimicking those of liquid nitromethane. Large scale nonequilibrium simulations of reacting liquid HE with model kinetic under sustained shock conditions allow a better understanding of the shock-to-detonation transition in homogeneous explosives. Moreover, the propagation of the reactive wave appears discontinuous since ignition points in the shocked material can be activated by the compressive waves emitted from the onset of chemical reactions.

  11. Mild MPP+ exposure impairs autophagic degradation through a novel lysosomal acidity-independent mechanism.

    PubMed

    Miyara, Masatsugu; Kotake, Yaichiro; Tokunaga, Wataru; Sanoh, Seigo; Ohta, Shigeru

    2016-10-01

    Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder, but its underlying cause remains unknown. Although recent studies using PD-related neurotoxin MPP + suggest autophagy involvement in the pathogenesis of PD, the effect of MPP + on autophagic processes under mild exposure, which mimics the slow progressive nature of PD, remains largely unclear. We examined the effect of mild MPP + exposure (10 and 200 μM for 48 h), which induces a more slowly developing cell death, on autophagic processes and the mechanistic differences with acute MPP + toxicity (2.5 and 5 mM for 24 h). In SH-SY5Y cells, mild MPP + exposure predominantly inhibited autophagosome degradation, whereas acute MPP + exposure inhibited both autophagosome degradation and basal autophagy. Mild MPP + exposure reduced lysosomal hydrolase cathepsin D activity without changing lysosomal acidity, whereas acute exposure decreased lysosomal density. Lysosome biogenesis enhancers trehalose and rapamycin partially alleviated mild MPP + exposure induced impaired autophagosome degradation and cell death, but did not prevent the pathogenic response to acute MPP + exposure, suggesting irreversible lysosomal damage. We demonstrated impaired autophagic degradation by MPP + exposure and mechanistic differences between mild and acute MPP + toxicities. Mild MPP + toxicity impaired autophagosome degradation through novel lysosomal acidity-independent mechanisms. Sustained mild lysosomal damage may contribute to PD. We examined the effects of MPP + on autophagic processes under mild exposure, which mimics the slow progressive nature of Parkinson's disease, in SH-SY5Y cells. This study demonstrated impaired autophagic degradation through a reduction in lysosomal cathepsin D activity without altering lysosomal acidity by mild MPP + exposure. Mechanistic differences between acute and mild MPP + toxicity were also observed. Sustained mild damage of lysosome may be an underlying cause of Parkinson's disease. Cover Image for this issue: doi: 10.1111/jnc.13338. © 2016 International Society for Neurochemistry.

  12. Cardiovascular and metabolic activity at rest and during psychological and physical challenge in normotensives and subjects with mildly elevated blood pressure.

    PubMed

    Sims, J; Carroll, D

    1990-03-01

    Heart rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and respiratory and metabolic activity were recorded prior to and during mental arithmetic and a video game task in 20 young men with mildly elevated casual systolic blood pressures. Twenty-five unambiguously normotensive young men were tested under the same protocol. For pretask baseline physiological activity, group differences emerged for all cardiovascular and metabolic variables; thus the elevated blood pressure group displayed not only higher resting cardiovascular levels than normotensive subjects, but higher levels of metabolic activity too. With regard to change in physiological activity from rest to task, the group with mildly elevated blood pressure showed reliably larger increases in heart rate to the mental arithmetic task than the normotensive subjects. These effects, however, were not paralleled by group differences in metabolic activity increase. Physiological measures were also taken prior to and during graded dynamic exercise. The subsequent calculation of individual heart rate-oxygen consumption exercise regression lines allowed the comparison of actual and predicted heart rates during psychological challenge. The subjects with mildly elevated blood pressure displayed significantly greater discrepancies between actual and predicted heart rate values than normotensives during the psychological tasks in general and mental arithmetic in particular. Group differences in physiological activity during exercise largely reflected the pattern seen at rest. A possible exception here was systolic blood pressure. Not only were systolic blood pressure levels higher throughout the exercise phase for mildly elevated blood pressure subjects, but this group evidenced more of an increase from rest to exercise than the normotensives.

  13. Cholinergic Enhancement of Frontal Lobe Activity in Mild Cognitive Impairment

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Saykin, Andrew J.; Wishart, Heather A.; Rabin, Laura A.; Flashman, Laura A.; McHugh, Tara L.; Mamourian, Alexander C.; Santulli, Robert B.

    2004-01-01

    Cholinesterase inhibitors positively affect cognition in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and other conditions, but no controlled functional MRI studies have examined where their effects occur in the brain. We examined the effects of donepezil hydrochloride (Aricept[Registered sign]) on cognition and brain activity in patients with amnestic mild cognitive…

  14. Coronal Heating by Magnetic Explosions

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Moore, Ronald L.; Falconer, D. A.; Porter, Jason G.; Suess, Steven T.

    1998-01-01

    We build a case for the persistent strong coronal heating in active regions and the pervasive quasi-steady heating of the corona in quiet regions and coronal holes being driven in basically the same way as the intense transient heating in solar flares: by explosions of sheared magnetic fields in the cores of initially closed bipoles. We begin by summarizing the observational case for exploding sheared core fields being the drivers of a wide variety of flare events, with and without coronal mass ejections. We conclude that the arrangement of an event's flare heating, whether there is a coronal mass ejection, and the time and place of the ejection relative to the flare heating are all largely determined by four elements of the form and action the magnetic field: (1) the arrangement of the impacted, interacting bipoles participating in the event, (2) which of these bipoles are active (have sheared core fields that explode) and which are passive (are heated by injection from impacted active bipoles), (3) which core field explodes first, and (4) which core-field explosions are confined within the closed field of their bipoles and which ejectively open their bipoles.

  15. Integrated, multi-parameter, investigation of eruptive dynamics at Santiaguito lava dome, Guatemala

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lavallée, Yan; De Angelis, Silvio; Rietbrock, Andreas; Lamb, Oliver; Hornby, Adrian; Lamur, Anthony; Kendrick, Jackie E.; von Aulock, Felix W.; Chigna, Gustavo

    2016-04-01

    Understanding the nature of the signals generated at volcanoes is central to hazard mitigation efforts. Systematic identification and understanding of the processes responsible for the signals associated with volcanic activity are only possible when high-resolution data are available over relatively long periods of time. For this reason, in November 2014, the Liverpool Earth Observatory (LEO), UK, in collaboration with colleagues of the Instituto Nacional de Sismologia, Meteorologia e Hidrologia (INSIVUMEH), Guatemala, installed a large multi-parameter geophysical monitoring network at Santiaguito - the most active volcano in Guatemala. The network, which is to date the largest temporary deployment on Santiaguito, includes nine three-component broadband seismometers, three tiltmeters, and five infrasound microphones. Further, during the initial installation campaign we conducted visual and thermal infrared measurements of surface explosive activity and collected numerous rock samples for geochemical, geophysical and rheological characterisation. Activity at Santiaguito began in 1922, with the extrusion of a series of lava domes. In recent years, persistent dome extrusion has yielded spectacularly episodic piston-like motion displayed by characteristic tilt/seismic patterns (Johnson et al, 2014). This cyclicity episodically concludes with gas emissions or gas-and-ash explosions, observed to progress along a complex fault system in the dome. The explosive activity is associated with distinct geophysical signals characterised by the presence of very-long period earthquakes as well as more rapid inflation/deflation cycles; the erupted ash further evidences partial melting and thermal vesiculation resulting from fault processes (Lavallée et al., 2015). One year of data demonstrates the regularity of the periodicity and intensity of the explosions; analysis of infrasound data suggests that each explosion expulses on the order of 10,000-100,000 kg of gas and ash. We conclude that near-field monitoring of this volcanic system promises to greatly advance our understanding of shallow volcanic processes. This work was funded by the Liverpool Earth Observatory and by the European Research Council grant on Strain Localisation in Magma (SLiM, No. 306488) Reference Johnson J. B., Lyons J. J., Andrews B. J., Lees J. M., 2014. Explosive dome eruptions modulated by periodic gas-driven inflation. Geophysical Research Letters 41, 6689-6697. Lavallée Y., Dingwell D.B., Cimarelli C., Hornby A.J. Johnson J.B., Kendrick J.E., von Aulock F.W., Wadsworth F.W., Rhodes E., Kennedy B.M., Andrews B.J., Chigna G., 2015. Thermal vesiculation during volcanic eruptions. Nature 528, 544-547.

  16. Eruptive history, current activity and risk estimation using geospatial information in the Colima volcano, Mexico

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Suarez-Plascencia, C.; Camarena-Garcia, M.; Nunez-Cornu, F. J.; Flores-Peña, S.

    2013-12-01

    Colima volcano, also known as Volcan de Fuego (19 30.696 N, 103 37.026 W), is located on the border between the states of Jalisco and Colima, and is the most active volcano in Mexico. In January 20, 1913, Colima had its biggest explosion of the twentieth century, with VEI 4, after the volcano had been dormant for almost 40 years. In 1961, a dome reached the northeastern edge of the crater and started a new lava flow, and from this date maintains constant activity. In February 10, 1999, a new explosion occurred at the summit dome. The activity during the 2001-2005 period was the most intense, but did not exceed VEI 3. The activity resulted in the formation of domes and their destruction after explosive events. The explosions originated eruptive columns, reaching altitudes between 4,500 and 9,000 masl, further pyroclastic flows reaching distances up to 3.5 km from the crater. During the explosive events, ash emissions were generated in all directions reaching distances up to 100 km, slightly affecting the nearby villages: Tuxpan, Tonila, Zapotlan, Cuauhtemoc, Comala, Zapotitlan de Vadillo and Toliman. During 2005 to July 2013, this volcano has had an intense effusive-explosive activity; similar to the one that took place during the period of 1890 through 1905. That was before the Plinian eruption of 1913, where pyroclastic flows reached a distance of 15 km from the crater. In this paper we estimate the risk of Colima volcano through the analysis of the vulnerability variables, hazard and exposure, for which we use: satellite imagery, recurring Fenix helicopter over flights of the state government of Jalisco, the use of the images of Google Earth and the population census 2010 INEGI. With this information and data identified changes in economic activities, development, and use of land. The expansion of the agricultural frontier in the lower sides of the volcano Colima, and with the advancement of traditional crops of sugar cane and corn, increased the growth of avocado orchards and fruits like blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries within the radius of 15 km from the crater. The population dynamics in the Colima volcano area had a population of 552,954 inhabitants in 2010, and a growth at an annual rate of 1.6 percent of the total population. 60 percent of the populations live in 105 towns with a population less than 250 inhabitants. Also, the region showed an increase in vulnerability for the development of economic activities, supported by the highway, railway, natural gas pipelines and electrical infrastructure that connect to the Port of Manzanillo to Guadalajara city. With the use of geospatial information quantify the vulnerability, together with the hazard maps and exposure, enabled us to build the following volcanic risk maps: a) Exclusion areas and moderate hazard for explosive events (ballistic) and pyroclastic flows, b) Hazard map of lahars and debris flow, and c) Hazard map of ash-fall. The geospatial database, a GIS mapping and current volcano monitoring, are the basis of the Operational Plan Colima Volcano. Civil Protection by the state of Jalisco and the updating of urban development plans of municipalities converge on the volcano. These instruments of land planning will help reduce volcanic risk in the region.

  17. Physical Activity, Gender Difference, and Depressive Symptoms.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Jun; Yen, Steven T

    2015-10-01

    To investigate the roles of physical activity (exercise) and sociodemographic factors in depressive symptoms among men and women in the United States. 2011 U.S. Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). Patient Health Questionnaire Depression Scale (PHQ-8) scores are aggregated and divided into five categories. An ordered switching probability model with binary endogenous physical activity is developed to accommodate ordinality of depression categories and ameliorate statistical biases due to endogeneity of physical activity. Average treatment effects suggest physical activity ameliorates depressive symptoms among mildly and moderately depressed individuals, most notably among mildly depressed women. Gender differences exist in the roles of sociodemographic factors, with age, income, race, education, employment status, and recent mental health condition playing differentiated roles in affecting depressive symptoms. Regular physical activity reduces depressive symptoms among both men and women with mild to moderate depression, notably among women. © Health Research and Educational Trust.

  18. Degassing Processes at Persistently Active Explosive Volcanoes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Smekens, Jean-Francois

    Among volcanic gases, sulfur dioxide (SO2) is by far the most commonly measured. More than a monitoring proxy for volcanic degassing, SO 2 has the potential to alter climate patterns. Persistently active explosive volcanoes are characterized by short explosive bursts, which often occur at periodic intervals numerous times per day, spanning years to decades. SO 2 emissions at those volcanoes are poorly constrained, in large part because the current satellite monitoring techniques are unable to detect or quantify plumes of low concentration in the troposphere. Eruption plumes also often show high concentrations of ash and/or aerosols, which further inhibit the detection methods. In this work I focus on quantifying volcanic gas emissions at persistently active explosive volcanoes and their variations over short timescales (minutes to hours), in order to document their contribution to natural SO2 flux as well as investigate the physical processes that control their behavior. In order to make these measurements, I first develop and assemble a UV ground-based instrument, and validate it against an independently measured source of SO2 at a coal-burning power plant in Arizona. I establish a measurement protocol and demonstrate that the instrument measures SO 2 fluxes with < 20 % error. Using the same protocol, I establish a record of the degassing patterns at Semeru volcano (Indonesia), a volcano that has been producing cycles of repeated explosions with periods of minutes to hours for the past several decades. Semeru produces an average of 21-71 tons of SO2 per day, amounting to a yearly output of 8-26 Mt. Using the Semeru data, along with a 1-D transient numerical model of magma ascent, I test the validity of a model in which a viscous plug at the top of the conduit produces cycles of eruption and gas release. I find that it can be a valid hypothesis to explain the observed patterns of degassing at Semeru. Periodic behavior in such a system occurs for a very narrow range of conditions, for which the mass balance between magma flux and open-system gas escape repeatedly generates a viscous plug, pressurizes the magma beneath the plug, and then explosively disrupts it.

  19. 2500 pyroclast puzzle: probing eruptive scenarios at Volcán de Colima, Mexico

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kueppers, U.; Varley, N. R.; Alatorre-Ibarguengoitia, M. A.; Lavallee, Y.; Becker, S.; Berninger, N.; Goldstein, F.; Hanson, J. B.; Kolzenburg, S.; Dingwell, D. B.

    2009-12-01

    The Colima volcanic complex is comprised by two edifices, the extinct Nevado de Colima to the North and the active Fuego de Colima in the South. Since 1998, a dome-building phase has shown repeated shifts between lava effusion and short-lived explosive activity. Lava extrusion rates were usually low leading to the build-up of domes inside the crater but occasionally, lava spilled over the crater rim and flowed down the flanks. This effusive activity was usually associated with several ash explosions and gas exhalation events per day. In 2005, occasional block-and-ash flows from dome-collapse events travelled down the Western flanks and reached La Lumbre valley. Later that year, violent explosive eruptions destroyed the dome and sent pyroclastic flows to valleys in the South (Monte Grande) and South-East (La Arena). The transition from effusive to short-lived but highly explosive eruptive behaviour presents an interesting opportunity to study pyroclastic flow deposits from different generating mechanisms. Gas at overpressure in bubbly magma is one of the main driving forces of explosive eruptions. The change of the physical properties of evolved magmas after the fragmentation is minor. Therefore, a detailed characterisation of volcanic products reveals much information and is vital for a correct understanding of volcanic deposits. Comparing different units allows constraining the bandwidth of possible eruptive scenarios. Here, we thoroughly characterized the deposits of the above described events on site. In the field, we 1) measured the density distribution of 100 surficial juvenile and lithic clasts at 24 localities (1 * 1 m) across the length and width of the pyroclastic flow deposits; 2) sieved the matrix (approx. 30 * 30 * 30 cm) at each locality; and 3) created detailed stratigraphic logs. We observe a lower mean density and a greater variance for clasts generated by the explosive eruption. Our results highlight the different origin of the 2005 deposits on Colima. Ergo, the physical properties of eruptive products allow the constraining of eruptive scenarios and may help to better interpret volcanic deposits that have not been eye-witnessed.

  20. Remedial action suitability for the Cornhusker Army Ammunition Plant site

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

    Nonavinakere, S.; Rappa, P. III

    1995-12-31

    Numerous Department of Defense (DOD) sites across the nation are contaminated with explosive wastes due to munitions production during World War II, Korean Conflict and Vietnam Conflict. Production activities included explosives manufacturing, loading, packing, assembling, machining, casting and curing. Contaminants often present at these sites include TNT, RDX, HMX, Tetryl 2,4-DNT, 2,6-DNT, 1,3-DNB, 1,3,5-TNB and nitrobenzene. The Cornhusker Army Ammunition Plant (CAAP) is one such DOD site that has been determined to be contaminated with explosives. The CAAP is located approximately 2 miles west of the City of Grand Island in Hall County, Nebraska. The plant produced artillery, bombs, boosters,more » supplementary charges and various other experimental explosives. The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the site background, review of the remedial alternatives evaluation process and rationale behind the selection of present remedial action.« less

  1. Superfund record of decision (EPA Region 4): Milan Army Ammunition Plant, operable units 3 and 4, Milan, TN, October 2, 1995

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

    NONE

    1996-03-01

    This decision document presents the selected remedial action for the soil within the northern industrial area of Milan Army Ammunition Plant, Milan, Tennessee. The goal of the cleanup activities at the northern industrial areas of MAAP is to remove the soil contaminated with explosives compounds above risk-based levels. The excavated soil will be treated using a bioremediation process to reduce the concentrations of explosives compounds, the toxicity of the leachate, and the mobility of the remaining organic compounds. The treated soil will then be placed in an on-site solid waste landfill in compliance with State of Tennessee regulations. Additionally, inmore » areas where excavation of the explosives-contaminated soil is infeasible, the soil will be covered with an engineered cap to prevent worker exposure to the explosives compounds and prevent leaching of these compounds to groundwater.« less

  2. Thin film sensor materials for detection of Nitro-Aromatic explosives

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ramdasi, Dipali; Mudhalwadkar, Rohini

    2018-03-01

    Many countries have experienced terrorist activities and innocent people have suffered. Timely detection of explosives can avoid this situation. This paper targets the detection of Nitrobenzene and Nitrotoluene, which are nitroaromatic compounds possessing explosive properties. As direct sensors for detecting these compounds are not available, Polyaniline based thin film sensors doped with palladium are developed using the spin coating technique. The response of the developed sensors is observed for varying concentrations of explosives. It is observed that zinc oxide based sensor is more sensitive to Nitrotoluene exhibiting a relative change in resistance of 0.78. The tungsten oxide sensor is more sensitive to Nitrobenzene with a relative change in resistance of 0.48. The sensor performance is assessed by measuring the response and recovery time. The cross sensitivity of the sensors is evaluated for ethanol, acetone and methanol which was observed as very low.

  3. Interdisciplinary studies of eruption at Chaitén volcano, Chile

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Pallister, John S.; Major, Jon J.; Pierson, Thomas C.; Holitt, Richard P.; Lowenstern, Jacob B.; Eichelberger, John C.; Luis, Lara; Moreno, Hugo; Muñoz, Jorge; Castro, Jonathan M.; Iroumé, Andrés; Andreoli, Andrea; Jones, Julia; Swanson, Fred; Crisafulli, Charlie

    2010-01-01

    High-silica rhyolite magma fuels Earth's largest and most explosive eruptions. Recurrence intervals for such highly explosive eruptions are in the 100- to 100,000-year time range, and there have been few direct observations of such eruptions and their immediate impacts. Consequently, there was keen interest within the volcanology community when the first large eruption of high-silica rhyolite since that of Alaska's Novarupta volcano in 1912 began on 1 May 2008 at Chaitén volcano, southern Chile, a 3-kilometer-diameter caldera volcano with a prehistoric record of rhyolite eruptions [Naranjo and Stern, 2004semi; Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería (SERNAGEOMIN), 2008semi; Carn et al., 2009; Castro and Dingwell, 2009; Lara, 2009; Muñoz et al., 2009]. Vigorous explosions occurred through 8 May 2008, after which explosive activity waned and a new lava dome was extruded.

  4. May 2011 eruption of Telica Volcano, Nicaragua: Multidisciplinary observations

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Witter, M. R.; Geirsson, H.; La Femina, P. C.; Roman, D. C.; Rodgers, M.; Muñoz, A.; Morales, A.; Tenorio, V.; Chavarria, D.; Feineman, M. D.; Furman, T.; Longley, A.

    2011-12-01

    Telica volcano, an andesitic stratovolcano in north-western Nicaragua, erupted in May 2011. The eruption, produced ash but no lava and required the evacuation of over 500 people; no injuries were reported. We present the first detailed report of the eruption, using information from the TElica Seismic ANd Deformation (TESAND) network, that provides real-time data, along with visual observations, ash leachate analysis, and fumarole temperature measurements. Telica is located in the Maribios mountain range. It is one of the most active volcanoes in Nicaragua and has frequent small explosions and rare large (VEI 4) eruptions, with the most recent sizable eruptions (VEI 2) occurring in 1946 and 1999. The 2011 eruption is the most explosive since 1999. The eruption consisted of a series of ash explosions, with the first observations from May 8, 2011 when local residents reported ash fall NE of the active crater. Popping sounds could be heard coming from the crater on May 10. On May 13, the activity intensified and continued with some explosions every day for about 2 weeks. The well-defined plumes originated from the northern part of the crater. Ash fall was reported 4 km north of the active crater on May 14. The largest explosion at 2:54 pm (local time) on May 21 threw rocks from the crater and generated a column 2 km in height. Fresh ash samples were collected on May 16, 18, and 21 and preliminary inspection shows that the majority of the material is fragmented rock and crystalline material, i.e. not juvenile. Ash leachates (ash:water = 1:25) contain a few ppb As, Se, and Cd; tens of ppb Co and Ni; and up to a few hundred ppb Cu and Zn. Telica typically has hundreds of small seismic events every day, even when the volcano is not erupting. The TESAND network detected an increase in the rate and magnitude of seismic activity, with a maximum magnitude of 3.3. Elevated fumarole temperatures at locations near the active vent were also observed throughout the May 2011 eruption. Temperature measurements taken on May 26 recorded a maximum of 539°C. Ten continuous GPS stations running on and close to the volcano showed little deformation, suggesting that substantial quantities of new magma were not displaced beneath the volcanic edifice.

  5. Identifying hazards associated with lava deltas

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Poland, Michael P.; Orr, Tim R.

    2014-01-01

    Lava deltas, formed where lava enters the ocean and builds a shelf of new land extending from the coastline, represent a significant local hazard, especially on populated ocean island volcanoes. Such structures are unstable and prone to collapse—events that are often accompanied by small explosions that can deposit boulders and cobbles hundreds of meters inland. Explosions that coincide with collapses of the East Lae ‘Apuki lava delta at Kīlauea Volcano, Hawai‘i, during 2005–2007 followed an evolutionary progression mirroring that of the delta itself. A collapse that occurred when the lava–ocean entry was active was associated with a blast of lithic blocks and dispersal of spatter and fine, glassy tephra. Shortly after delta growth ceased, a collapse exposed hot rock to cold ocean water, resulting in an explosion composed entirely of lithic blocks and lapilli. Further collapse of the delta after several months of inactivity, by which time it had cooled significantly, resulted in no recognizable explosion deposit. Seaward displacement and subsidence of the coastline immediately inland of the delta was measured by both satellite and ground-based sensors and occurred at rates of several centimeters per month even after the lava–ocean entry had ceased. The anomalous deformation ended only after complete collapse of the delta. Monitoring of ground deformation may therefore provide an indication of the potential for delta collapse, while the hazard associated with collapse can be inferred from the level of activity, or the time since the last activity, on the delta.

  6. Neuromuscular performance of maximal voluntary explosive concentric contractions is influenced by angular acceleration.

    PubMed

    Hahn, D; Bakenecker, P; Zinke, F

    2017-12-01

    Torque production during maximal voluntary explosive contractions is considered to be a functionally more relevant neuromuscular measure than steady-state torque, but little is known about accelerated concentric contractions. This study investigated torque, muscle activity, and fascicle behavior during isometric and fast concentric contractions of quadriceps femoris. Ten participants performed maximal voluntary explosive isometric, isovelocity, and additional concentric knee extensions at angular accelerations ranging from 700 to 4000° s -2 that resulted in an angular velocity of 300° s -1 at 40° knee flexion. Concentric torque at 40° knee flexion was corrected for inertia, and the corresponding isometric torque was matched to the time when the target knee angle of 40° was reached during concentric contractions. Electromyography of quadriceps femoris and hamstrings and ultrasound of vastus lateralis were measured to determine muscle activity, fascicle length, and fascicle velocity (FV). The faster the acceleration, the more torque was produced during concentric contractions at 40° knee flexion, which was accompanied by a reduction in FV. In comparison with isometric conditions, concentric quadriceps muscle activity was increased and torque during accelerations ≥3000° s -2 equaled the time-matched isometric torque. Our results provide novel evidence that acceleration influences torque production during maximal voluntary explosive concentric contractions. This is suggested to be due to series elasticity and reduced force depression. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  7. The protective role of Bax Inhibitor-1 against chronic mild stress through the inhibition of monoamine oxidase A

    PubMed Central

    Lee, Hwa-Young; Lee, Geum-Hwa; Marahatta, Anu; Lin, Shun-Mei; Lee, Mi-Rin; Jang, Kyu Yun; Kim, Kyung Min; Lee, Hee Jae; Lee, Jae-Won; Bagalkot, Tarique Rajasaheb; Chung, Young-Chul; Lee, Yong-Chul; Kim, Hyung-Ryong; Chae, Han-Jung

    2013-01-01

    The anti-apoptotic protein Bax inhibitor-1 (BI-1) is a regulator of apoptosis linked to endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. It has been hypothesized that BI-1 protects against neuron degenerative diseases. In this study, BI-1−/− mice showed increased vulnerability to chronic mild stress accompanied by alterations in the size and morphology of the hippocampi, enhanced ROS accumulation and an ER stress response compared with BI-1+/+ mice. BI-1−/− mice exposed to chronic mild stress showed significant activation of monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A), but not MAO-B, compared with BI-1+/+ mice. To examine the involvement of BI-1 in the Ca2+-sensitive MAO activity, thapsigargin-induced Ca2+ release and MAO activity were analyzed in neuronal cells overexpressing BI-1. The in vitro study showed that BI-1 regulates Ca2+ release and related MAO-A activity. This study indicates an endogenous protective role of BI-1 under conditions of chronic mild stress that is primarily mediated through Ca2+-associated MAO-A regulation. PMID:24292328

  8. 10,000 Years of explosive eruptions of Merapi Volcano, Central Java: archaeological and modern implications

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Newhall, C.G.; Bronto, S.; Alloway, B.; Banks, N.G.; Bahar, I.; Del Marmol, M.A.; Hadisantono, R.D.; Holcomb, R.T.; McGeehin, J.; Miksic, J.N.; Rubin, M.; Sayudi, S.D.; Sukhyar, R.; Andreastuti, Supriyati; Tilling, R.I.; Torley, R.; Trimble, D.; Wirakusumah, A.D.

    2000-01-01

    Stratigraphy and radiocarbon dating of pyroclastic deposits at Merapi Volcano, Central Java, reveals ~10,000 years of explosive eruptions. Highlights include: (1) Construction of an Old Merapi stratovolcano to the height of the present cone or slightly higher. Our oldest age for an explosive eruption is 9630±60 14C y B.P.; construction of Old Merapi certainly began earlier. (2) Collapse(s) of Old Merapi that left a somma rim high on its eastern slope and sent one or more debris avalanche(s) down its southern and western flanks. Impoundment of Kali Progo to form an early Lake Borobudur at ~3400 14C y B.P. hints at a possible early collapse of Merapi. The latest somma-forming collapse occurred ~1900 14C y B.P. The current cone, New Merapi, began to grow soon thereafter. (3) Several large and many small Buddhist and Hindu temples were constructed in Central Java between 732 and ~900 A.D. (roughly, 1400-1000 14C y B.P.). Explosive Merapi eruptions occurred before, during and after temple construction. Some temples were destroyed and (or) buried soon after their construction, and we suspect that this destruction contributed to an abrupt shift of power and organized society to East Java in 928 A.D. Other temples sites, though, were occupied by "caretakers" for several centuries longer. (4) A partial collapse of New Merapi occurred 14C y B.P. Eruptions ~700-800 14C y B.P. (12-14th century A.D.) deposited ash on the floors of (still-occupied?) Candi Sambisari and Candi Kedulan. We speculate but cannot prove that these eruptions were triggered by (the same?) partial collapse of New Merapi, and that the eruptions, in turn, ended "caretaker" occupation at Candi Sambisari and Candi Kedulan. A new or raised Lake Borobudur also existed during part or all of the 12-14th centuries, probably impounded by deposits from Merapi. (5) Relatively benign lava-dome extrusion and dome-collapse pyroclastic flows have dominated activity of the 20th century, but explosive eruptions much larger than any of this century have occurred many times during Merapi's history, most recently during the 19th century. Are the relatively small eruptions of the 20th century a new style of open-vent, less hazardous activity that will persist for the foreseeable future? Or, alternatively, are they merely low-level "background" activity that could be interrupted upon relatively short notice by much larger explosive eruptions? The geologic record suggests the latter, which would place several hundred thousand people at risk. We know of no reliable method to forecast when an explosive eruption will interrupt the present interval of low-level activity. This conclusion has important implications for hazard evaluation.

  9. Numerical Modeling of Ejecta Dispersal from Transient Volcanic Explosions on Mars

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fagents, Sarah A.; Wilson, Lionel

    1996-10-01

    The dynamics of ejecta dispersal in transient volcanic eruptions on Mars are distinct from those on Earth and Venus because of the low atmospheric pressure and gravitational acceleration. Numerical modeling of the physical mechanisms of such activity, accounting for the different martian environmental conditions, can help constrain the style of emplacement of the eruptive products. The scenario envisaged is one of pressurized gas, contributed from either a magmatic or meteoric source, accumulating in the near-surface crust beneath a retaining medium. On failure of the confining material, the gas expands rapidly out of the vent, displacing both the “caprock” and a mass of atmospheric gas overlying the explosion site, in a discrete, transient event. Trajectories of large blocks of ejecta are computed subject to the complex aerodynamic interactions of atmospheric and volcanic gases which are set in motion by the initiation of the explosion. Reservoirs of crustal and surface water and carbon dioxide may have increased the chances of occurrence of transient explosive events on Mars in two ways: by supplying a source of volatiles for vaporization by the magma and by acting to slow the ascent of the magma by chilling it, providing conditions favorable for gas accumulation. Results of the modeling indicate that ejection velocities ranging up to ∼580 m sec-1were possible in martian H2O-driven explosions, with CO2-driven velocities typically a factor of ∼1.5 smaller. Travel distances of large blocks of ejecta lie within the range of a few kilometers to the order of 100 km from the vent. The low martian atmospheric pressure and gravity would thus have conspired to produce more vigorous explosions and more widely dispersed deposits than are associated with analogous events on Earth or Venus. Other phenomena likely to be associated with transient explosions include ashfall deposits from associated convecting clouds of fine material, pyroclastic flows, and ejecta impact crater fields. It is anticipated that the martian environment would have caused such features to be greater in size than would be the case in the terrestrial environment. Ash clouds associated with discrete explosions are expected to have risen to a maximum of ∼25 km on Mars, producing deposits having similar widths. Another indication of a volcanic explosion site might be found in areas of high regolith ice content, such as fretted terrains, where ice removal and mass-wasting may have modified the vent's initial morphology. The modeling results highlight the implications of the occurrence of transient explosive eruptions for the global crustal volatile distribution and provide some predictions of the likely manifestation of such activity for testing by upcoming spacecraft missions to Mars.

  10. Mid to late proterozoic magmatism within Northeastern North America and its iplications for the growth of the continental crust

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Mclelland, J. M.

    1988-01-01

    Recent studies of the mangerite-charnockite-alaskite suite exposed in the Adirondack Highlands strongly suggest that these rocks were emplaced under anorogenic, or mildly extensional, conditions. The characteristic signatures of the rocks are high (FeO/FeO+MgO) and (FeO/Fe2O3); mildly alkaline to subalkaline and metaluminous trends; high Ga/Al2O3; and within plate concentrations of Nb vs Y, Ta vs Yb, Rb vs (Y+Nb), and Rb vs (Yb+Ta). Evolved members of the series are low in CaO and MgO and high in alkalies and halogens. All of these properties are consistent with anorogenic magmatism comprising acidic crustal melts and mantle derived mafic additions to the crust. Major and minor element trends, as well as field evidence, strongly suggest that the anorogenic acidic suite is coeval, but not comagmatic, with closely associated anorthositic massifs. Present outcrop configurations are consistent with the evolution of the acidic and anorthositic rocks in zoned, bimodal magma chambers cored by the mafic constituents and overlain by explosive, caldera-type volcanism. Age determinations indicate that the emplacement of the anorthosite-charnockite suite extended over approximately 500 Ma in the Grenville and adjacent Nain, Provinces.

  11. Mid to late proterozoic magmatism within Northeastern North America and its iplications for the growth of the continental crust

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    McLelland, J. M.

    Recent studies of the mangerite-charnockite-alaskite suite exposed in the Adirondack Highlands strongly suggest that these rocks were emplaced under anorogenic, or mildly extensional, conditions. The characteristic signatures of the rocks are high (FeO/FeO+MgO) and (FeO/Fe2O3); mildly alkaline to subalkaline and metaluminous trends; high Ga/Al2O3; and within plate concentrations of Nb vs Y, Ta vs Yb, Rb vs (Y+Nb), and Rb vs (Yb+Ta). Evolved members of the series are low in CaO and MgO and high in alkalies and halogens. All of these properties are consistent with anorogenic magmatism comprising acidic crustal melts and mantle derived mafic additions to the crust. Major and minor element trends, as well as field evidence, strongly suggest that the anorogenic acidic suite is coeval, but not comagmatic, with closely associated anorthositic massifs. Present outcrop configurations are consistent with the evolution of the acidic and anorthositic rocks in zoned, bimodal magma chambers cored by the mafic constituents and overlain by explosive, caldera-type volcanism. Age determinations indicate that the emplacement of the anorthosite-charnockite suite extended over approximately 500 Ma in the Grenville and adjacent Nain, Provinces.

  12. The application of single particle aerosol mass spectrometry for the detection and identification of high explosives and chemical warfare agents

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

    Martin, Audrey Noreen

    2006-01-01

    Single Particle Aerosol Mass Spectrometry (SPAMS) was evaluated as a real-time detection technique for single particles of high explosives. Dual-polarity time-of-flight mass spectra were obtained for samples of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT), 1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazinane (RDX), and pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN); peaks indicative of each compound were identified. Composite explosives, Comp B, Semtex 1A, and Semtex 1H were also analyzed, and peaks due to the explosive components of each sample were present in each spectrum. Mass spectral variability with laser fluence is discussed. The ability of the SPAMS system to identify explosive components in a single complex explosive particle (~1 pg) without the need formore » consumables is demonstrated. SPAMS was also applied to the detection of Chemical Warfare Agent (CWA) simulants in the liquid and vapor phases. Liquid simulants for sarin, cyclosarin, tabun, and VX were analyzed; peaks indicative of each simulant were identified. Vapor phase CWA simulants were adsorbed onto alumina, silica, Zeolite, activated carbon, and metal powders which were directly analyzed using SPAMS. The use of metal powders as adsorbent materials was especially useful in the analysis of triethyl phosphate (TEP), a VX stimulant, which was undetectable using SPAMS in the liquid phase. The capability of SPAMS to detect high explosives and CWA simulants using one set of operational conditions is established.« less

  13. Alterations in memory networks in mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease: an independent component analysis.

    PubMed

    Celone, Kim A; Calhoun, Vince D; Dickerson, Bradford C; Atri, Alireza; Chua, Elizabeth F; Miller, Saul L; DePeau, Kristina; Rentz, Doreen M; Selkoe, Dennis J; Blacker, Deborah; Albert, Marilyn S; Sperling, Reisa A

    2006-10-04

    Memory function is likely subserved by multiple distributed neural networks, which are disrupted by the pathophysiological process of Alzheimer's disease (AD). In this study, we used multivariate analytic techniques to investigate memory-related functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) activity in 52 individuals across the continuum of normal aging, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and mild AD. Independent component analyses revealed specific memory-related networks that activated or deactivated during an associative memory paradigm. Across all subjects, hippocampal activation and parietal deactivation demonstrated a strong reciprocal relationship. Furthermore, we found evidence of a nonlinear trajectory of fMRI activation across the continuum of impairment. Less impaired MCI subjects showed paradoxical hyperactivation in the hippocampus compared with controls, whereas more impaired MCI subjects demonstrated significant hypoactivation, similar to the levels observed in the mild AD subjects. We found a remarkably parallel curve in the pattern of memory-related deactivation in medial and lateral parietal regions with greater deactivation in less-impaired MCI and loss of deactivation in more impaired MCI and mild AD subjects. Interestingly, the failure of deactivation in these regions was also associated with increased positive activity in a neocortical attentional network in MCI and AD. Our findings suggest that loss of functional integrity of the hippocampal-based memory systems is directly related to alterations of neural activity in parietal regions seen over the course of MCI and AD. These data may also provide functional evidence of the interaction between neocortical and medial temporal lobe pathology in early AD.

  14. A Picture-Based Activity Schedule Intervention to Teach Adults with Mild Intellectual Disability to Use an iPad during a Leisure Activity

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Chan, Jeffrey Michael; Lambdin, Lindsay; Graham, Kimberly; Fragale, Christina; Davis, Tonya

    2014-01-01

    Individuals with developmental disabilities have limited opportunities to participate in leisure activities, frequently due to lack of skills. The purpose of the current study was to teach three adults diagnosed with mild intellectual disability to use an iPad in the context of playing the video game Angry Birds. We used an adapted multiple…

  15. Bronchoscopic findings and bleeding control predict survival in patients with solid malignancies presenting with mild hemoptysis.

    PubMed

    Grosu, Horiana B; Casal, Roberto F; Morice, Rodolfo C; Nogueras-González, Graciela M; Eapen, Georgie A; Ost, David; Sarkiss, Mona G; Jimenez, Carlos A

    2013-08-01

    Regardless of its volume, hemoptysis is a concerning symptom. Mild hemoptysis and its significance in patients with solid malignancies has not been studied. We conducted a retrospective chart review of patients with solid malignancies who presented for evaluation of mild hemoptysis. In this population, we studied the impact of bronchoscopic findings and endobronchial therapies on overall survival and bleeding recurrence. Patients were categorized into four groups on the basis of the presence or absence of active bleeding and endobronchial disease at the time of initial bronchoscopy: active bleeding with endobronchial lesion (AB/EBL), active bleeding without endobronchial lesion (AB/no-EBL), absence of active bleeding but with endobronchial lesion (no-AB/EBL), and absence of active bleeding and endobronchial lesion (no-AB/no-EBL). Ninety-five of the 112 patients with solid malignancies and mild hemoptysis underwent bronchoscopies. There was a significantly lower median survival time for patients with bronchoscopic findings of active bleeding and endobronchial lesion compared with patients with no active bleeding and/or no endobronchial lesion (3.48 mo; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.14-6.05). On a multivariate analysis, factors independently associated with improved survival were higher hemoglobin values (hazard ratio [HR], 0.78; 95% CI, 0.67-0.91) and cessation of hemoptysis without recurrence at 48 hours (HR, 0.43; 95% CI, 0.22-0.84). Variables independently associated with worse survival were disease stage (HR, 10.8; 95% CI, 2.53-46.08) and AB/EBL (HR, 3.20; 95% CI, 1.74-5.89). In patients with solid malignancies presenting with mild hemoptysis, bronchoscopic findings of AB/EBL are associated with decreased survival. Hemoptysis control without recurrence at 48 hours after endobronchial intervention may improve survival.

  16. Participation in daytime activities among people with mild or moderate intellectual disability.

    PubMed

    Dusseljee, J C E; Rijken, P M; Cardol, M; Curfs, L M G; Groenewegen, P P

    2011-01-01

    Community participation has been defined as performing daytime activities by people while interacting with others. Previous studies on community participation among people with intellectual disability (ID) have mainly focused on the domestic life aspect. This study investigates the variation in community participation in the domains work, social contacts and leisure activities among people with ID in the Netherlands. A number of categories of people with ID were distinguished by: (1) gender; (2) age; (3) type of education; (4) severity of ID; and (5) accommodation type. Data were gathered on 653 people with mild or moderate ID, of whom 513 by oral interviews and 140 by structured questionnaires filled in by representatives of those who could not be interviewed. Pearson chi-square tests were used to test differences between categories of people with ID in the distributions of the participation variables. Additional logistic regression analyses were conducted to correct for differences between the categories in other variables. Most people with mild or moderate ID in the Netherlands have work or other daytime activities, have social contacts and have leisure activities. However, people aged 50 years and over and people with moderate ID participate less in these domains than those under 50 years and people with mild ID. Moreover, people with ID hardly participate in activities with people without ID. High participation among people with a mild or moderate ID within the domains of work, social contact and leisure activities does not necessarily indicate a high level of interaction with the community, because the majority hardly interact with people without ID. Furthermore, older people with ID and people with a more severe level of ID seem to be more at risk for social exclusion. © 2010 The Authors. Journal of Intellectual Disability Research © 2010 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

  17. Effects of Combined Physical and Cognitive Exercises on Cognition and Mobility in Patients With Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

    PubMed

    Shimada, Hiroyuki; Makizako, Hyuma; Doi, Takehiko; Park, Hyuntae; Tsutsumimoto, Kota; Verghese, Joe; Suzuki, Takao

    2017-11-17

    Although participation in physical and cognitive activities is encouraged to reduce the risk of dementia, the preventive efficacy of these activities for patients with mild cognitive impairment is unestablished. To compare the cognitive and mobility effects of a 40-week program of combined cognitive and physical activity with those of a health education program. A randomized, parallel, single-blind controlled trial. A population-based study of participants recruited from Obu, a residential suburb of Nagoya, Japan. Between August 2011 and February 2012, we evaluated 945 adults 65 years or older with mild cognitive impairment, enrolled 308, and randomly assigned them to the combined activity group (n = 154) or the health education control group (n = 154). The combined activity program involved weekly 90-minute sessions for 40 weeks focused on physical and cognitive activities. The control group attended 90-minute health promotion classes thrice during the 40-week trial period. The outcome measures were assessed at the study's beginning and end by personnel blinded to mild cognitive impairment subtype and group. The primary endpoints were postintervention changes in scores on (1) the Mini-Mental State Examination as a measure of general cognitive status and memory, (2) the Wechsler Memory Scale-Revised-Logical Memory II, and (3) the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test. We applied mobility assessments and assessed brain atrophy with magnetic resonance imaging. Compared with the control group, the combined activity group showed significantly greater scores on the Mini-Mental State Examination (difference = 0.8 points, P = .012) and Wechsler Memory Scale-Revised-Logical Memory II (difference = 1.0, P = .004), significant improvements in mobility and the nonmemory domains and reduced left medial temporal lobe atrophy in amnestic mild cognitive impairment (Z-score difference = -31.3, P < .05). Combined physical and cognitive activity improves or maintains cognitive and physical performance in older adults with mild cognitive impairment, especially the amnestic type. Copyright © 2017 AMDA – The Society for Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  18. Department of the Navy Explosives Safety Site Approval Process Improvement Initiative

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2010-07-01

    All applicable existing land-use restrictions, such as explosives safety quantity distance (ESQD) arcs, Hazards of Electromagnetic Radiation to... Ordnance ( HERO ) zones, air field safety zones, and munitions response program sites are noted in the ESAR.  PWO will have in place a written...N547) Naval Ordnance Safety and Security Activity Farragut Hall, 3817 Strauss Ave, Suite 108 Indian Head, MD 20640-5151 (301) 744-6059

  19. Positive effect of acute mild exercise on executive function via arousal-related prefrontal activations: an fNIRS study.

    PubMed

    Byun, Kyeongho; Hyodo, Kazuki; Suwabe, Kazuya; Ochi, Genta; Sakairi, Yosuke; Kato, Morimasa; Dan, Ippeita; Soya, Hideaki

    2014-09-01

    Despite the practical implication of mild exercise, little is known about its influence on executive function and its neural substrates. To address these issues, the present study examined the effect of an acute bout of mild exercise on executive function and attempted to identify potential neural substrates using non-invasive functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). Twenty-five young individuals performed a color-word matching Stroop task (CWST) and a two-dimensional scale to measure changes of psychological mood states both before and after a 10-minute exercise session on a cycle ergometer at light intensity (30% v(·)o2peak) and, for the control session, without exercise. Cortical hemodynamic changes in the prefrontal area were monitored with fNIRS during the CWST in both sessions. The acute bout of mild exercise led to improved Stroop performance, which was positively correlated with increased arousal levels. It also evoked cortical activations regarding Stroop interference on the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and frontopolar area. These activations significantly corresponded with both improved cognitive performance and increased arousal levels. Concurrently, this study provides empirical evidence that an acute bout of mild exercise improves executive function mediated by the exercise-induced arousal system, which intensifies cortical activation in task-related prefrontal sub-regions. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  20. Effect of resistance training regimens on treadmill running and neuromuscular performance in recreational endurance runners.

    PubMed

    Mikkola, Jussi; Vesterinen, Ville; Taipale, Ritva; Capostagno, Benoit; Häkkinen, Keijo; Nummela, Ari

    2011-10-01

    The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of heavy resistance, explosive resistance, and muscle endurance training on neuromuscular, endurance, and high-intensity running performance in recreational endurance runners. Twenty-seven male runners were divided into one of three groups: heavy resistance, explosive resistance or muscle endurance training. After 6 weeks of preparatory training, the groups underwent an 8-week resistance training programme as a supplement to endurance training. Before and after the 8-week training period, maximal strength (one-repetition maximum), electromyographic activity of the leg extensors, countermovement jump height, maximal speed in the maximal anaerobic running test, maximal endurance performance, maximal oxygen uptake ([V·]O(₂max)), and running economy were assessed. Maximal strength improved in the heavy (P = 0.034, effect size ES = 0.38) and explosive resistance training groups (P = 0.003, ES = 0.67) with increases in leg muscle activation (heavy: P = 0.032, ES = 0.38; explosive: P = 0.002, ES = 0.77). Only the heavy resistance training group improved maximal running speed in the maximal anaerobic running test (P = 0.012, ES = 0.52) and jump height (P = 0.006, ES = 0.59). Maximal endurance running performance was improved in all groups (heavy: P = 0.005, ES = 0.56; explosive: P = 0.034, ES = 0.39; muscle endurance: P = 0.001, ES = 0.94), with small though not statistically significant improvements in [V·]O(₂max) (heavy: ES = 0.08; explosive: ES = 0.29; muscle endurance: ES = 0.65) and running economy (ES in all groups < 0.08). All three modes of strength training used concurrently with endurance training were effective in improving treadmill running endurance performance. However, both heavy and explosive strength training were beneficial in improving neuromuscular characteristics, and heavy resistance training in particular contributed to improvements in high-intensity running characteristics. Thus, endurance runners should include heavy resistance training in their training programmes to enhance endurance performance, such as improving sprinting ability at the end of a race.

  1. Changes in lava effusion rate, explosion characteristics and degassing revealed by time-series photogrammetry and feature tracking velocimetry of Santiaguito lava dome

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Andrews, B. J.; Grocke, S.; Benage, M.

    2016-12-01

    The Santiaguito dome complex, Guatemala, provides a unique opportunity to observe an active lava dome with an array of DSLR and video cameras from the safety of Santa Maria volcano, a vantage point 2500 m away from and 1000 m above the dome. Radio triggered DSLR cameras can collect synchronized images at rates up to 10 frames/minute. Single-camera datasets describe lava dome surface motions and application of Feature-Tracking-Velocimetry (FTV) to the image sequences measures apparent lava flow surface velocities (as projected onto the camera-imaging plane). Multi-camera datasets describe the lava dome surface topography and 3D velocity field; this 4D photogrammetric approach yields georeferenced point clouds and DEMs with specific points or features tracked through time. HD video cameras document explosions and characterize those events as comparatively gas-rich or ash-rich. Comparison of observations collected during January and November 2012 and January 2016 reveals changes in the effusion rate and explosion characteristics at the active Santiaguito dome that suggest a change in shallow degassing behavior. The 2012 lava dome had numerous incandescent regions and surface velocities of 3 m/hr along the southern part of the dome summit where the dome fed a lava flow. The 2012 dome also showed a remarkably periodic (26±6 minute) pattern of inflation and deflation interpreted to reflect gas accumulation and release, with some releases occurring explosively. Video observations show that the explosion plumes were generally ash-poor. In contrast, the January 2016 dome exhibited very limited incandescence, and had reduced surface velocities of <1 m/hr. Explosions occurred infrequently, but were generally longer duration ( e.g. 90-120 s compared to 30 s) and more ash-rich than those in 2012. We suggest that the reduced lava effusion rate in 2016 produced a net increase in the gas accumulation capacity of the shallow magma, and thus larger, less-frequent explosions. These findings indicate that gas permeability may be proportional to magma ascent and strain rate in dome-forming eruptions.

  2. A Multisite Study of the Relationships between Blast Exposures and Symptom Reporting in a Post-Deployment Active Duty Military Population with Mild Traumatic Brain Injury

    PubMed Central

    Miller, Kelly J.; Lange, Rael T.; Cooper, Douglas B.; Tate, David F.; Bailie, Jason; Brickell, Tracey A.; French, Louis M.; Asmussen, Sarah; Kennedy, Jan E.

    2014-01-01

    Abstract Explosive devices have been the most frequent cause of traumatic brain injury (TBI) among deployed contemporary U.S. service members. The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of previous cumulative blast exposures (that did or did not result in TBI) on later post-concussion and post-traumatic symptom reporting after sustaining a mild TBI (MTBI). Participants were 573 service members who sustained MTBI divided into four groups by number of blast exposures (1, 2, 3, and 4–10) and a nonblast control group. Post-concussion symptoms were measured using the Neurobehavioral Symptom Inventory (NSI) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms using the Post-traumatic Checklist-Civilian version (PCL-C). Results show groups significantly differed on total NSI scores (p<0.001), where symptom endorsement increased as number of reported blast exposures increased. Total NSI scores were significantly higher for the 3– and 4–10 blast groups compared with the 1- and 2-blast groups with effect sizes ranging from small to moderate (d=0.31 to 0.63). After controlling for PTSD symptoms using the PCL-C total score, NSI total score differences remained between the 4–10-blast group and the 1- and 2-blast groups, but were less pronounced (d=0.35 and d=0.24, respectively). Analyses of NSI subscale scores using PCL-C scores as a covariate revealed significant between-blast group differences on cognitive, sensory, and somatic, but not affective symptoms. Regression analyses revealed that cumulative blast exposures accounted for a small but significant amount of the variance in total NSI scores (4.8%; p=0.009) and total PCL-C scores (2.3%; p<0.001). Among service members exposed to blast, post-concussion symptom reporting increased as a function of cumulative blast exposures. Future research will need to determine the relationship between cumulative blast exposures, symptom reporting, and neuropathological changes. PMID:25036531

  3. Remote observations of eruptive clouds and surface thermal activity during the 2009 eruption of Redoubt volcano

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Webley, P. W.; Lopez, T. M.; Ekstrand, A. L.; Dean, K. G.; Rinkleff, P.; Dehn, J.; Cahill, C. F.; Wessels, R. L.; Bailey, J. E.; Izbekov, P.; Worden, A.

    2013-06-01

    Volcanoes often erupt explosively and generate a variety of hazards including volcanic ash clouds and gaseous plumes. These clouds and plumes are a significant hazard to the aviation industry and the ground features can be a major hazard to local communities. Here, we provide a chronology of the 2009 Redoubt Volcano eruption using frequent, low spatial resolution thermal infrared (TIR), mid-infrared (MIR) and ultraviolet (UV) satellite remote sensing data. The first explosion of the 2009 eruption of Redoubt Volcano occurred on March 15, 2009 (UTC) and was followed by a series of magmatic explosive events starting on March 23 (UTC). From March 23-April 4 2009, satellites imaged at least 19 separate explosive events that sent ash clouds up to 18 km above sea level (ASL) that dispersed ash across the Cook Inlet region. In this manuscript, we provide an overview of the ash clouds and plumes from the 19 explosive events, detailing their cloud-top heights and discussing the variations in infrared absorption signals. We show that the timing of the TIR data relative to the event end time was critical for inferring the TIR derived height and true cloud top height. The ash clouds were high in water content, likely in the form of ice, which masked the negative TIR brightness temperature difference (BTD) signal typically used for volcanic ash detection. The analysis shown here illustrates the utility of remote sensing data during volcanic crises to measure critical real-time parameters, such as cloud-top heights, changes in ground-based thermal activity, and plume/cloud location.

  4. Pyroclast Tracking Velocimetry: A particle tracking velocimetry-based tool for the study of Strombolian explosive eruptions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gaudin, Damien; Moroni, Monica; Taddeucci, Jacopo; Scarlato, Piergiorgio; Shindler, Luca

    2014-07-01

    Image-based techniques enable high-resolution observation of the pyroclasts ejected during Strombolian explosions and drawing inferences on the dynamics of volcanic activity. However, data extraction from high-resolution videos is time consuming and operator dependent, while automatic analysis is often challenging due to the highly variable quality of images collected in the field. Here we present a new set of algorithms to automatically analyze image sequences of explosive eruptions: the pyroclast tracking velocimetry (PyTV) toolbox. First, a significant preprocessing is used to remove the image background and to detect the pyroclasts. Then, pyroclast tracking is achieved with a new particle tracking velocimetry algorithm, featuring an original predictor of velocity based on the optical flow equation. Finally, postprocessing corrects the systematic errors of measurements. Four high-speed videos of Strombolian explosions from Yasur and Stromboli volcanoes, representing various observation conditions, have been used to test the efficiency of the PyTV against manual analysis. In all cases, >106 pyroclasts have been successfully detected and tracked by PyTV, with a precision of 1 m/s for the velocity and 20% for the size of the pyroclast. On each video, more than 1000 tracks are several meters long, enabling us to study pyroclast properties and trajectories. Compared to manual tracking, 3 to 100 times more pyroclasts are analyzed. PyTV, by providing time-constrained information, links physical properties and motion of individual pyroclasts. It is a powerful tool for the study of explosive volcanic activity, as well as an ideal complement for other geological and geophysical volcano observation systems.

  5. Mild Cognitive Impairment

    MedlinePlus

    ... people their age. This condition is called mild cognitive impairment, or MCI. People with MCI can take care of themselves and do their normal activities. MCI memory problems may include Losing things often Forgetting to ...

  6. Towards mild metal-catalyzed C-H bond activation.

    PubMed

    Wencel-Delord, Joanna; Dröge, Thomas; Liu, Fan; Glorius, Frank

    2011-09-01

    Functionalizing traditionally inert carbon-hydrogen bonds represents a powerful transformation in organic synthesis, providing new entries to valuable structural motifs and improving the overall synthetic efficiency. C-H bond activation, however, often necessitates harsh reaction conditions that result in functional group incompatibilities and limited substrate scope. An understanding of the reaction mechanism and rational design of experimental conditions have led to significant improvement in both selectivity and applicability. This critical review summarizes and discusses endeavours towards the development of mild C-H activation methods and wishes to trigger more research towards this goal. In addition, we examine select examples in complex natural product synthesis to demonstrate the synthetic utility of mild C-H functionalization (84 references). This journal is © The Royal Society of Chemistry 2011

  7. Acoustic waves in the atmosphere and ground generated by volcanic activity

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

    Ichihara, Mie; Lyons, John; Oikawa, Jun

    2012-09-04

    This paper reports an interesting sequence of harmonic tremor observed in the 2011 eruption of Shinmoe-dake volcano, southern Japan. The main eruptive activity started with ashcloud forming explosive eruptions, followed by lava effusion. Harmonic tremor was transmitted into the ground and observed as seismic waves at the last stage of the effusive eruption. The tremor observed at this stage had unclear and fluctuating harmonic modes. In the atmosphere, on the other hand, many impulsive acoustic waves indicating small surface explosions were observed. When the effusion stopped and the erupted lava began explosive degassing, harmonic tremor started to be transmitted alsomore » to the atmosphere and observed as acoustic waves. Then the harmonic modes became clearer and more stable. This sequence of harmonic tremor is interpreted as a process in which volcanic degassing generates an open connection between the volcanic conduit and the atmosphere. In order to test this hypothesis, a laboratory experiment was performed and the essential features were successfully reproduced.« less

  8. High temperature two component explosive

    DOEpatents

    Mars, James E.; Poole, Donald R.; Schmidt, Eckart W.; Wang, Charles

    1981-01-01

    A two component, high temperature, thermally stable explosive composition comprises a liquid or low melting oxidizer and a liquid or low melting organic fuel. The oxidizer and fuel in admixture are incapable of substantial spontaneous exothermic reaction at temperatures on the order of 475.degree. K. At temperatures on the order of 475.degree. K., the oxidizer and fuel in admixture have an activation energy of at least about 40 kcal/mol. As a result of the high activation energy, the preferred explosive compositions are nondetonable as solids at ambient temperature, and become detonable only when heated beyond the melting point. Preferable oxidizers are selected from alkali or alkaline earth metal nitrates, nitrites, perchlorates, and/or mixtures thereof. Preferred fuels are organic compounds having polar hydrophilic groups. The most preferred fuels are guanidinium nitrate, acetamide and mixtures of the two. Most preferred oxidizers are eutectic mixtures of lithium nitrate, potassium nitrate and sodium nitrate, of sodium nitrite, sodium nitrate and potassium nitrate, and of potassium nitrate, calcium nitrate and sodium nitrate.

  9. Application of micro-Raman spectroscopy for fight against terrorism and smuggling

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Almaviva, Salvatore; Botti, Sabina; Palucci, Antonio; Puiu, Adriana; Schnürer, Frank; Schweikert, Wenka; Romolo, Francesco Saverio

    2014-04-01

    We report the results of Raman measurements on some common military explosives and explosives precursors deposited on clothing fabrics, both synthetic and natural, in concentration comparable to those obtained from a single fingerprint or mixed with similar harmless substances to detect illegal compounds for smuggling activities. Raman spectra were obtained using an integrated portable Raman system equipped with an optical microscope and a 785-nm laser in an analysis of <1 min. The spectral features of each illicit substance have been identified and distinguished from those belonging to the substrate fabric or from the interfering compound. Our results show that the application of Raman spectroscopy (RS) with a microscope-based portable apparatus can provide interpretable Raman spectra for a fast, in-situ analysis, directly from explosive particles of some μ, despite the contribution of the substrate, leaving the sample completely unaltered for further, more specific, and propedeutic laboratory analysis. We also show how the RS is suitable for detecting illegal compounds mixed with harmless substances for smuggling purposes or for counterfeiting activities.

  10. Association of School Environment and After-School Physical Activity with Health-Related Physical Fitness among Junior High School Students in Taiwan

    PubMed Central

    Lo, Kai-Yang; Wu, Min-Chen; Tung, Shu-Chin; Hsieh, City C.; Yao, Hsueh-Hua; Ho, Chien-Chang

    2017-01-01

    The relationship between students’ school environment and exercise habits is complex, and is affected by numerous factors. However, the few studies that have been conducted on this relationship have reported inconsistent results, especially regarding Taiwanese students. We conducted this cross-sectional study to investigate the association of school environment and after-school physical activity with health-related physical fitness in Taiwanese adolescents. Data were drawn from a national survey conducted by the Ministry of Education in Taiwan in 2008 of health-related physical fitness measurements among junior high school students (649,442 total) in grades seven to nine. School environment (level of urbanization, school size, presence of sports field or gymnasium) and after-school physical activity were assessed for their association with adolescents’ physical fitness measurements (body mass index (BMI), bent-leg sit-ups, 800-/1600-m run, sit-and-reach, standing long jump). Urban boys and girls perform significantly better in muscle strength and endurance, cardiorespiratory endurance, flexibility, and explosive power; girls from rural areas exhibited significantly worse scores in body composition. Boys from large-size schools performed the worst in cardiorespiratory endurance, flexibility, and explosive power; whereas girls from large-size schools performed the worst in muscle strength, muscle endurance, and explosive power, but had the best score for body composition. However, the differences in body composition of boys from large-, medium-, and small- size schools did not reach a statistically significant level. Adolescents of both genders in schools with a sports field or gymnasium exhibited significantly better in muscle strength and endurance, cardiorespiratory endurance, and explosive power. Boys in schools with a sports field or gymnasium had significantly better body composition; girls in schools with sports field or gymnasium differed significantly in flexibility. Adolescents of both genders who participated in physical activity after school had significantly better body composition, cardiorespiratory endurance, and flexibility. Boys who participated in physical activity after school significantly differed in explosive power, whereas girls who participated in physical activity after school exhibited significantly better flexibility. Thus, the current study demonstrated that some factors, including urbanization (school location in rural or urban areas), school size, school facility provision (school with or without sports fields or gymnasiums), and after-school physical activity participation are more important than others in shaping adolescents’ physical fitness in Taiwan; meanwhile, these association patterns differed by gender. PMID:28098836

  11. Association of School Environment and After-School Physical Activity with Health-Related Physical Fitness among Junior High School Students in Taiwan.

    PubMed

    Lo, Kai-Yang; Wu, Min-Chen; Tung, Shu-Chin; Hsieh, City C; Yao, Hsueh-Hua; Ho, Chien-Chang

    2017-01-15

    The relationship between students' school environment and exercise habits is complex, and is affected by numerous factors. However, the few studies that have been conducted on this relationship have reported inconsistent results, especially regarding Taiwanese students. We conducted this cross-sectional study to investigate the association of school environment and after-school physical activity with health-related physical fitness in Taiwanese adolescents. Data were drawn from a national survey conducted by the Ministry of Education in Taiwan in 2008 of health-related physical fitness measurements among junior high school students (649,442 total) in grades seven to nine.School environment (level of urbanization, school size, presence of sports field or gymnasium) and after-school physical activity were assessed for their association with adolescents' physical fitness measurements (body mass index (BMI), bent-leg sit-ups, 800-/1600-m run, sit-and-reach, standing long jump). Urban boys and girls perform significantly better in muscle strength and endurance, cardiorespiratory endurance, flexibility, and explosive power; girls from rural areas exhibited significantly worse scores in body composition. Boys from large-size schools performed the worst in cardiorespiratory endurance, flexibility, and explosive power; whereas girls from large-size schools performed the worst in muscle strength, muscle endurance, and explosive power, but had the best score for body composition. However, the differences in body composition of boys from large-, medium-, and small- size schools did not reach a statistically significant level. Adolescents of both genders in schools with a sports field or gymnasium exhibited significantly better in muscle strength and endurance, cardiorespiratory endurance, and explosive power. Boys in schools with a sports field or gymnasium had significantly better body composition; girls in schools with sports field or gymnasium differed significantly in flexibility. Adolescents of both genders who participated in physical activity after school had significantly better body composition, cardiorespiratory endurance, and flexibility. Boys who participated in physical activity after school significantly differed in explosive power, whereas girls who participated in physical activity after school exhibited significantly better flexibility. Thus, the current study demonstrated that some factors, including urbanization (school location in rural or urban areas), school size, school facility provision (school with or without sports fields or gymnasiums), and after-school physical activity participation are more important than others in shaping adolescents' physical fitness in Taiwan; meanwhile, these association patterns differed by gender.

  12. Seismic and deformation precursory to the small explosions of Marapi Volcano, West Sumatra, Indonesia

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hidayat, D.; Patria, C.; Gunawan, H.; Taisne, B.; Nurfiani, D.; Avila, E. J.

    2015-12-01

    Marapi Volcano is one of the active volcanoes of Indonesia located near the city of Bukittinggi, West Sumatra, Indonesia. Its activity is characterized by small vulcanian explosions with occasional VEI 2 producing tephra and pyroclastic flows. Due to its activity, it is being monitored by Centre for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (CVGHM). Four seismic stations consists of 2 broadband and 2 short period instruments have been established since 2009. In collaboration with CVGHM, Earth Observatory of Singapore added 5 seismic stations around the volcano in 2014, initially with short period instruments but later upgraded to broadbands. We added one tilt station at the summit of Marapi. These seismic and tilt stations are telemetered by 5.8GHz radio to Marapi Observatory Post where data are archived and displayed for Marapi observers for their daily volcanic activity monitoring work. We also archive the data in the EOS and CVGHM main offices. Here we are presenting examples of seismic and deformation data from Marapi prior, during, and after the vulcanian explosion. Our study attempt to understand the state of the volcano based on monitoring data and in order to enable us to better estimate the hazards associated with the future eruptions of this or similar volcano.

  13. The detection of bulk explosives using nuclear-based techniques

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

    Morgado, R.E.; Gozani, T.; Seher, C.C.

    1988-01-01

    In 1986 we presented a rationale for the detection of bulk explosives based on nuclear techniques that addressed the requirements of civil aviation security in the airport environment. Since then, efforts have intensified to implement a system based on thermal neutron activation (TNA), with new work developing in fast neutron and energetic photon reactions. In this paper we will describe these techniques and present new results from laboratory and airport testing. Based on preliminary results, we contended in our earlier paper that nuclear-based techniques did provide sufficiently penetrating probes and distinguishable detectable reaction products to achieve the FAA operational goals;more » new data have supported this contention. The status of nuclear-based techniques for the detection of bulk explosives presently under investigation by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is reviewed. These include thermal neutron activation (TNA), fast neutron activation (FNA), the associated particle technique, nuclear resonance absorption, and photoneutron activation. The results of comprehensive airport testing of the TNA system performed during 1987-88 are summarized. From a technical point of view, nuclear-based techniques now represent the most comprehensive and feasible approach for meeting the operational criteria of detection, false alarms, and throughput. 9 refs., 5 figs., 2 tabs.« less

  14. Management of the orbital environment

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Loftus, Joseph P., Jr.; Kessler, Donald J.; Anz-Meador, Phillip D.

    1991-01-01

    Data regarding orbital debris are presented to shed light on the requirements of environmental management in space, and strategies are given for active intervention and operational strategies. Debris are generated by inadvertent explosions of upper stages, intentional military explosions, and collisional breakups. Design and operation practices are set forth for minimizing debris generation and removing useless debris from orbit in the low-earth and geosynchronous orbits. Self-disposal options include propulsive maneuvers, drag-augmentation devices, and tether systems, and the drag devices are described as simple and passive. Active retrieval and disposition are considered, and the difficulty is examined of removing small debris. Active intervention techniques are required since pollution prevention is more effective than remediation for the problems of both earth and space.

  15. Validation of the Erlangen Test of Activities of Daily Living in Persons with Mild Dementia or Mild Cognitive Impairment (ETAM).

    PubMed

    Luttenberger, Katharina; Reppermund, Simone; Schmiedeberg-Sohn, Anke; Book, Stephanie; Graessel, Elmar

    2016-05-26

    There are currently no valid, fast, and easy-to-administer performance tests that are designed to assess the capacities to perform activities of daily living in persons with mild dementia and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). However, such measures are urgently needed for determining individual support needs as well as the efficacy of interventions. The aim of the present study was therefore to validate the Erlangen Test of Activities of Daily Living in Persons with Mild Dementia and Mild Cognitive Impairment (ETAM), a performance test that is based on the International Classification of Functioning and Health (ICF), which assesses the relevant domains of living in older adults with MCI and mild dementia who live independently. The 10 ICF-based items on the research version of the ETAM were tested in a final sample of 81 persons with MCI or mild dementia. The items were selected for the final version in accordance with 6 criteria: 1) all domains must be represented and have equal weight, 2) all items must load on the same factor, 3) item difficulties and item discriminatory powers, 4) convergent validity (Bayer Activities of Daily Living Scale [B-ADL]) and discriminant validity (Mini Mental State Examination [MMSE], Geriatric Depression Scale 15 [GDS-15]), 5) inter-rater reliabilities of the individual items, 6) as little material as possible. Retest reliability was also examined. Cohen's ds were calculated to determine the magnitudes of the differences in ETAM scores between participants diagnosed with different grades of severity of cognitive impairment. The final version of the ETAM consists of 6 items that cover the five ICF domains communication, mobility, self-care, domestic life (assessed by two 3-point items), and major life areas (specifically, the economic life sub-category) and load on a single factor. The maximum achievable score is 30 points (6 points per domain). The average administration time was 35 min, 19 of which were needed for pure item performance. The internal consistency was α = .71. The three-week test-retest reliability was r = .78, and the inter-rater reliability was r = .97. The ETAM also provided satisfactory discrimination between healthy individuals and persons with MCI or mild dementia as well as between persons with mild and moderate dementia. The 6-item final version of the ETAM shows satisfactory psychometric characteristics and can be administered quickly. It is therefore suitable for use in both clinical practice and research.

  16. Stratigraphy and textural characteristics of the 1982 83 tephra of Galunggung volcano (Indonesia): implications for volcanic hazards

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gourgaud, A.; Thouret, J.-C.; Bourdier, J.-L.

    2000-12-01

    The Galunggung volcano in western Java (Indonesia) was the site of historical activity in 1822, 1894, 1918, and 1982-83, located in a pre-historical horseshoe-shaped caldera. In 1982-83, a nine-month-long eruption generated successively (1) ash-and-scoria flows channeled in two valleys and extending 6 km from the vent (vulcanian phase 1), (2) surges and ash falls related to the excavation of a wide maar crater, with ash columns 20 km high (phreatomagmatic phase 2), and (3) ash and scoria falls that built a small cone inside the maar crater (strombolian phase 3). During phreatomagmatic phase 2, there was a significant increase of explosivity. Paradoxically, the magma composition had evolved from andesite to primitive magnesian basalt. Jet-plane incidents were recorded during this period: on the June 24 and July 13, 1982, two Boeing 747 aircraft experienced engine power loss when passing through the plume. The vertical variations of grain sizes and xenolith contents of pyroclasts were measured in the 1982-83 eruptive deposits. We show that a progressive increase of the ratio of xenolith versus juvenile magma before the end of vulcanian phase 1 heralded the increase of explosivity leading towards phreatomagmatic phase 2. In the same way, the decrease of the same ratio at the end of the phreatomagmatic phase 2 heralded the decrease of explosivity and the onset of strombolian phase 3. The transition from phase 1 to phase 2 is also marked by a slight but continuous decrease of the vesicularity index of juvenile clasts. We emphasize the increasing efficiency of groundwater/magma interaction during the eruption. The increasing interaction and renewed explosive activity occurred after a period of rest, during which additional groundwater was supplied in the vicinity of the magma column. The data suggest that it would have been possible to predict as soon as April-May 1982 the transition from vulcanian to phreatomagmatic activity, and consequently the corresponding increase in explosivity.

  17. The military's approach to traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ling, Geoffrey S. F.; Grimes, Jamie; Ecklund, James M.

    2014-06-01

    Traumatic brain injury (TBI) and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) are common conditions. In Iraq and Afghanistan, explosive blast related TBI became prominent among US service members but the vast majority of TBI was still due to typical causes such as falls and sporting events. PTS has long been a focus of the US military mental health providers. Combat Stress Teams have been integral to forward deployed units since the beginning of the Global War on Terror. Military medical management of disease and injury follows standard of care clinical practice guidelines (CPG) established by civilian counterparts. However, when civilian CPGs do not exist or are not applicable to the military environment, new practice standards are created. Such is the case for mild TBI. In 2009, the VA-DoD CPG for management of mild TBI/concussion was published and a system-wide clinical care program for mild TBI/concussion was introduced. This was the first large scale effort on an entire medical care system to address all severities of TBI in a comprehensive organized way. In 2010, the VA-DoD CPG for management of PTSD was published. Nevertheless, both TBI and PTS are still incompletely understood. Investment in terms of money and effort has been committed by the DoD to their study. The Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center, National Intrepid Center of Excellence and the Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury are prominent examples of this effort. These are just beginnings, a work in progress ready to leverage advances made scientifically and always striving to provide the very best care to its military beneficiaries.

  18. Traumatic brain injury produced by exposure to blasts, a critical problem in current wars: biomarkers, clinical studies, and animal models

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dixon, C. Edward

    2011-06-01

    Traumatic brain injury (TBI) resulting from exposure to blast energy released by Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) has been recognized as the "signature injury" of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Repeated exposure to mild blasts may produce subtle deficits that are difficult to detect and quantify. Several techniques have been used to detect subtle brain dysfunction including neuropsychological assessments, computerized function testing and neuroimaging. Another approach is based on measurement of biologic substances (e.g. proteins) that are released into the body after a TBI. Recent studies measuring biomarkers in CSF and serum from patients with severe TBI have demonstrated the diagnostic, prognostic, and monitoring potential. Advancement of the field will require 1) biochemical mining for new biomarker candidates, 2) clinical validation of utility, 3) technical advances for more sensitive, portable detectors, 4) novel statistical approach to evaluate multiple biomarkers, and 5) commercialization. Animal models have been developed to simulate elements of blast-relevant TBI including gas-driven shock tubes to generate pressure waves similar to those produced by explosives. These models can reproduce hallmark clinical neuropathological responses such as neuronal degeneration and inflammation, as well as behavioral impairments. An important application of these models is to screen novel therapies and conduct proteomic, genomic, and lipodomic studies to mine for new biomarker candidates specific to blast relevant TBI.

  19. The 1909 Chinyero eruption on Tenerife (Canary Islands): insights from historical accounts, and tephrostratigraphic and geochemical data

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Di Roberto, A.; Bertagnini, A.; Del Carlo, P.; Meletlidis, S.; Pompilio, M.

    2016-12-01

    The last eruption on Tenerife (Canary Islands, Spain) started on 18 November 1909 from the El Chinyero vent on the northwestern Santiago rift. This fissural eruption was well documented by scientists and eyewitnesses, but there is a lack of data on the high-energy phase that produced the most significant emissions of ash and lapilli at the onset of the eruption. Here, we review historical documents (e.g. newspapers, dispatches, telegrams); eyewitness accounts and scientific reports were reviewed from a volcanological perspective and integrated with data from the analysis of deposit features, allowing an accurate reconstruction of the eruption and its dynamics. The 1909 eruption of Chinyero was fed by a compositionally discrete magma batch that ascended rapidly within the crust, producing rather violent pulsating Strombolian explosive activity in the early phases of the eruption. This activity produced a ca. 80 m high scoria cone and heavy fallout of lapilli and ash over the entire northern sector of the island of Tenerife. The energy of explosive activity waned after 3 days, giving way to the weak Strombolian explosive activity that contributed to a lesser extent to the buildup of the pyroclastic pile. Eruptions such as those from the Chinyero vent in 1909 are representative of rift activity on Tenerife and constitute a volcanic hazard for present-day inhabitants.

  20. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with mild airflow limitation: current knowledge and proposal for future research - a consensus document from six scientific societies.

    PubMed

    Rossi, Andrea; Butorac-Petanjek, Bojana; Chilosi, Marco; Cosío, Borja G; Flezar, Matjaz; Koulouris, Nikolaos; Marin, José; Miculinic, Neven; Polese, Guido; Samaržija, Miroslav; Skrgat, Sabina; Vassilakopoulos, Theodoros; Vukić-Dugac, Andrea; Zakynthinos, Spyridon; Miravitlles, Marc

    2017-01-01

    Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide, with high and growing prevalence. Its underdiagnosis and hence under-treatment is a general feature across all countries. This is particularly true for the mild or early stages of the disease, when symptoms do not yet interfere with daily living activities and both patients and doctors are likely to underestimate the presence of the disease. A diagnosis of COPD requires spirometry in subjects with a history of exposure to known risk factors and symptoms. Postbronchodilator forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV 1 )/forced vital capacity <0.7 or less than the lower limit of normal confirms the presence of airflow limitation, the severity of which can be measured by FEV 1 % predicted: stage 1 defines COPD with mild airflow limitation, which means postbronchodilator FEV 1 ≥80% predicted. In recent years, an elegant series of studies has shown that "exclusive reliance on spirometry, in patients with mild airflow limitation, may result in underestimation of clinically important physiologic impairment". In fact, exercise tolerance, diffusing capacity, and gas exchange can be impaired in subjects at a mild stage of airflow limitation. Furthermore, growing evidence indicates that smokers without overt abnormal spirometry have respiratory symptoms and undergo therapy. This is an essential issue in COPD. In fact, on one hand, airflow limitation, even mild, can unduly limit the patient's physical activity, with deleterious consequences on quality of life and even survival; on the other hand, particularly in younger subjects, mild airflow limitation might coincide with the early stage of the disease. Therefore, we thought that it was worthwhile to analyze further and discuss this stage of "mild COPD". To this end, representatives of scientific societies from five European countries have met and developed this document to stimulate the attention of the scientific community on COPD with "mild" airflow limitation. The aim of this document is to highlight some key features of this important concept and help the practicing physician to understand better what is behind "mild" COPD. Future research should address two major issues: first, whether mild airflow limitation represents an early stage of COPD and what the mechanisms underlying the evolution to more severe stages of the disease are; and second, not far removed from the first, whether regular treatment should be considered for COPD patients with mild airflow limitation, either to prevent progression of the disease or to encourage and improve physical activity or both.

  1. 50 CFR 216.240 - Specified activity and specified geographical region.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ... Active Sonar Training (AFAST) § 216.240 Specified activity and specified geographical region. (a... Navy is only authorized if it occurs incidental to the use of the following mid-frequency active sonar (MFAS) sources, high frequency active sonar (HFAS) sources, explosive sonobuoys, or similar sources, for...

  2. 50 CFR 216.240 - Specified activity and specified geographical region.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... Active Sonar Training (AFAST) § 216.240 Specified activity and specified geographical region. (a... Navy is only authorized if it occurs incidental to the use of the following mid-frequency active sonar (MFAS) sources, high frequency active sonar (HFAS) sources, explosive sonobuoys, or similar sources, for...

  3. Budesonide MMX(®): a review of its use in patients with mild to moderate ulcerative colitis.

    PubMed

    Hoy, Sheridan M

    2015-05-01

    Budesonide MMX(®) (Cortiment(®); Uceris(®)) is a novel once-daily oral formulation of budesonide using Multi Matrix (MMX(®)) colonic delivery technology to permit the release of budesonide at a controlled rate throughout the colon. It is available in the USA for the induction of remission in patients with active, mild to moderate ulcerative colitis, and in various European countries for the induction of remission in patients with active, mild to moderate ulcerative colitis where 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) therapy is not sufficient. In three 8-week multinational, phase III studies in patients with active, mild to moderate ulcerative colitis, once-daily budesonide MMX(®) 9 mg, as monotherapy (CORE I and II studies) or add-on therapy to 5-ASAs (CONTRIBUTE), was significantly more effective than placebo in inducing combined clinical and endoscopic remission. In an 8-week extension of the CORE I study, the efficacy of budesonide MMX(®) 9 mg monotherapy was demonstrated among patients who completed the CORE I study, but did not achieve clinical remission. In phase III studies, the tolerability profile of budesonide MMX(®) 9 mg as monotherapy or add-on therapy to 5-ASAs was generally similar to that of placebo. Adverse events were generally mild or moderate in intensity, with exacerbation, relapse or worsening of ulcerative colitis, headache, nausea, abdominal pain and nasopharyngitis the most frequently reported following budesonide MMX(®) 9 mg monotherapy. Although final data from the CONTRIBUTE study are awaited, current evidence suggests budesonide MMX(®) 9 mg extends the treatment options currently available for patients with active, mild to moderate ulcerative colitis.

  4. A mild pulsed electric field condition that improves acid tolerance, growth, and protease activity of Lactobacillus acidophilus LA-K and Lactobacillus delbrueckii subspecies bulgaricus LB-12.

    PubMed

    Najim, N; Aryana, Kayanush J

    2013-06-01

    Pulsed electric field (PEF) processing involves the application of pulses of voltage for less than 1 s to fluid products placed between 2 electrodes. The effect of mild PEF on beneficial characteristics of probiotic bacteria Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus is not clearly understood. The objective of this study was to determine the influence of mild PEF conditions on acid tolerance, growth, and protease activity of Lb. acidophilus LA-K and Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus LB-12. A pilot plant PEF system (OSU-4M; The Ohio State University, Columbus) was used. The PEF treatments were positive square unipolar pulse width of 3 µs, pulse period of 0.5s, electric field strength of 1 kV/cm, delay time of 20 µs, flow rate of 60 mL/min, and 40.5°C PEF treatment temperature. Both Lb. acidophilus LA-K and Lb. bulgaricus LB-12 subjected to mild PEF conditions were acid tolerant until the end of the 120 min of incubation, unlike the Lb. bulgaricus control, which was not acid tolerant after 30 min. The mild PEF-treated Lb. acidophilus LA-K and Lb. bulgaricus LB-12 reached the logarithmic phase of growth an hour earlier than the control. Mild PEF conditions studied significantly improved acid tolerance, exponential growth, and protease activity of both Lb. acidophilus LA-K and Lb. bulgaricus LB-12 compared with the control. The mild PEF conditions studied can be recommended for pretreating cultures to enhance these desirable attributes. Copyright © 2013 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  5. Measurements of (60)Co in massive steel samples exposed to the Hiroshima atomic bomb explosion.

    PubMed

    Gasparro, Joël; Hult, Mikael; Marissens, Gerd; Hoshi, Masaharu; Tanaka, Kenichi; Endo, Satoru; Laubenstein, Matthias; Dombrowski, Harald; Arnold, Dirk

    2012-04-01

    To study discrepancies in retrospective Hiroshima dosimetry, the specific activity of (60)Co in 16 steel samples from Hiroshima was measured using gamma-ray spectrometry in underground laboratories. There is general agreement between these new activity measurements and the specific activities derived from previously calculated dose values on the one hand and former measurements of samples gathered at distances less than 1,000 m from the center of the explosion (< 1,000 m slant range) on the other. It was found that activities at long range (> 1,300 m slant range) were mainly cosmogenically induced. Furthermore, at long range, these results are in disagreement with older measurements whose specific activity values were 10 to 100 times higher than predicted by computer model calculations in DS86 and DS02. As a consequence, the previously reported discrepancy is not confirmed.

  6. Infrasonic Observations of Explosions and Degassing at Kilauea Summit

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fee, D.; Garces, M.

    2008-12-01

    After 25 years of quiescence, eruptive activity returned to Kilauea Caldera with an explosion in Halema'uma'u crater on March 19th 2008. The explosion is presumed to be the clearing of a clogged vent. Along with the 3/19 explosion, at least 5 more gas-driven explosions have occurred and were clearly recorded at a 4-element infrasound array 7 km away. Acoustic energy estimates for these explosions yield energies between ~ 0.2-3 × 107 J. Infrasonic VLP energy is present for some of the explosions, but not all. The relatively long explosion durations (>20 seconds) and frequency content are consistent with a transient pressure pulse followed by the reverberation of a shallow gas chamber or conduit. Persistent degassing from Halema'uma'u followed the initial explosion. The harmonic infrasonic tremor produced by the degassing is the most energetic to date at Kilauea, with the cumulative tremor acoustic energy at ~107-108 Joules/hour. The complex tremor spectra show numerous peaks, with the dominant peak between 0.3-0.6 Hz and a smaller amplitude peak around 1-3 Hz. The peak frequency of the harmonic tremor has changed over time, which could be related to a change in the gas-filled chamber dimensions or temperature. Further analysis of the tremor spectra may help constrain dimensions. Consistent with our previous observations at Kilauea from Pu'u 'O'o, Fissure D, and lava skylights, the excitation of a gas within a confined volume appears to be the acoustic (and possibly seismic) source. For the tremor, we propose a mechanism where persistent degassing excites the gas volume into resonance. The explosions signals are consistent with a slug of gas reaching the free surface and exciting the conduit as well. Correlation of the infrasound signals with seismic tremor, LP and VLP signals suggest an open system connecting the atmosphere to the seismic excitation process at depth. Results will also be presented in relation to the recent observation of a visible lava lake within the conduit.

  7. Waveform Template Matching and Analysis of Hydroacoustic Events from the April-May 2015 Eruption of Axial Volcano

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mann, M. E.; Bohnenstiehl, D. R.; Weis, J.

    2016-12-01

    The submarine emplacement of new lava flows during the 2015 eruption of Axial Volcano generated a series of impulsive acoustic signals that were captured by seismic and hydrophone sensors deployed as part of the Ocean Observatories Initiative cabled array network. A catalog of >37,000 explosions was created using a four-channel waveform matching routine using 800 template arrivals. Most of the explosions are sourced from a set of lava mounds erupted along the volcano's northern rift; however, a subset of 400 explosions are located within the caldera and track the flow of lava from a vent near its eastern rim. The earliest explosion occurs at 08:00 UTC on April 24, approximately four hours after the seismicity rate began to increase and two hours after bottom pressure recorders indicate the caldera floor began to subside. Between April 24 and 28 event rates are sustained at 1000/day. The rate then decreases gradually with explosive activity ending on 21 May, coincident with the initial re-inflation of the caldera. The windowed coefficient of variation of the inter-event time is approximately 1 throughout the eruption, consistent with a random process. The size-frequency distribution shows a bimodal pattern, with the loudest explosions, having received levels up to 157 dB re 1 micro-Pa, being produced during the first few hours of the eruption.

  8. Design and field results of a walk-through EDS

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wendel, Gregory J.; Bromberg, Edward E.; Durfee, Memorie K.; Curby, William A.

    1997-01-01

    A walk-through portal sampling module which incorporates active sampling has been developed. The module uses opposing wands which actively brush the subjects exterior clothing to disturb explosive traces. These traces are entrained in an air stream and transported to a High Speed GC- chemiluminescence explosives detection system. This combination provides automatic screening of passengers at rates of 10 per minute. The system exhibits sensitivity and selectivity which equals or betters that available from commercially available manual equipment. The systems has been developed for deployment at border crossings, airports and other security screening points. Detailed results of laboratory tests and airport field trials are reviewed.

  9. GPS Signal Feature Analysis to Detect Volcanic Plume on Mount Etna

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cannavo', Flavio; Aranzulla, Massimo; Scollo, Simona; Puglisi, Giuseppe; Imme', Giuseppina

    2014-05-01

    Volcanic ash produced during explosive eruptions can cause disruptions to aviation operations and to population living around active volcanoes. Thus, detection of volcanic plume becomes a crucial issue to reduce troubles connected to its presence. Nowadays, the volcanic plume detection is carried out by using different approaches such as satellites, radars and lidars. Recently, the capability of GPS to retrieve volcanic plumes has been also investigated and some tests applied to explosive activity of Etna have demonstrated that also the GPS may give useful information. In this work, we use the permanent and continuous GPS network of the Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia, Osservatorio Etneo (Italy) that consists of 35 stations located all around volcano flanks. Data are processed by the GAMIT package developed by Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Here we investigate the possibility to quantify the volcanic plume through the GPS signal features and to estimate its spatial distribution by means of a tomographic inversion algorithm. The method is tested on volcanic plumes produced during the lava fountain of 4-5 September 2007, already used to confirm if weak explosive activity may or may not affect the GPS signals.

  10. Comparing Pyroclastic Density Current (PDC) deposits at Colima (Mexico) and Tungurahua (Ecuador) volcanoes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Goldstein, Fabian; Varley, Nick; Bustillos, Jorge; Kueppers, Ulrich; Lavallee, Yan; Dingwell, Donald B.

    2010-05-01

    Sudden transitions from effusive to explosive eruptive behaviour have been observed at several volcanoes. As a result of explosive activity, pyroclastic density currents represent a major threat to life and infrastructure, mostly due to their unpredictability, mass, and velocity. Difficulties in direct observation force us to deduce crucial information from their deposits. Here, we present data from field work performed in 2009 on primary deposits from recent explosive episodes at Volcán de Colima (Mexico) and Tungurahua (Ecuador). Volcán de Colima, located 40km away from the Capital city Colima with 300,000 inhabitants, has been active since 1999. Activity has been primarily characterized by the slow effusion of lava dome with the daily occurrence of episodic gas (and sometimes ash) explosion events. During a period of peak activity in 2005, explosive eruptions repeatedly destroyed the dome and column collapse resulted in several PDCs that travelled down the W, S, and SE flanks. Tungurahua looms over the 20,000 inhabitants of the city of Baños, located 5km away, and is considered one of the most active volcanoes in Ecuador. The most recent eruptive cycle began in 1999 and climaxed in July and August of 2006 with the eruptions of several PDCs that traveled down the western flanks, controlled by the hydrological network. During two field campaigns, we collected an extensive data set of porosity and grain size distribution on PDCs at both volcanoes. The deposits have been mapped in detail and the porosity distribution of clasts across the surface of the deposits has been measured at more than 30 sites (> 3.000 samples). Our porosity distribution data (mean porosity values range between 17 and 24%) suggests an influence of run out distance and lateral position. Preliminary results of grain size analysis of ash and lapilli (< 5mm) has been performed at approximately 50 sites at varying longitudinal, lateral and vertical positions, and show a correlation with run-out distance, morphology, and stratigraphic context. Sedimentary structures such as dunes, grain size distribution, and the observed damage to vegetation help depict the progression of the flow and its dynamics. We also present optical microscopic analysis of ash and lapilli particles which portray the fundamental processes occurring during PDCs.

  11. Treatment of Explosives Residues from Range Activities

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2009-09-01

    on the specific proportions of peat moss and crude soybean oil in the PMSO. Detections of TNT, HMX, and the RDX degradation products MNX, DNX, and...83 Table 5.8.1-1. Summary of explosive compound detections in all samples collected over the duration of the demonstration...reduced 12- to 50-fold, depending on the depth. Dissolved TNT and HMX were not detected with enough frequency to allow calculation of fluxes of these

  12. Characterization and Performance Evaluation of an HPXe Detector for Nuclear Explosion Monitoring Applications

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2007-09-01

    performance of the detector, and to compare the performance with sodium iodide and germanium detectors. Monte Carlo ( MCNP ) simulation was used to...aluminum ~50% more efficient), and to estimate optimum shield dimensions for an HPXe based nuclear explosion monitor. MCNP modeling was also used to...detector were calculated with MCNP by using input activity levels as measured in routine NEM runs at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL

  13. Improved Overpressure Recording and Modeling for Near-Surface Explosion Forensics

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kim, K.; Schnurr, J.; Garces, M. A.; Rodgers, A. J.

    2017-12-01

    The accurate recording and analysis of air-blast acoustic waveforms is a key component of the forensic analysis of explosive events. Smartphone apps can enhance traditional technologies by providing scalable, cost-effective ubiquitous sensor solutions for monitoring blasts, undeclared activities, and inaccessible facilities. During a series of near-surface chemical high explosive tests, iPhone 6's running the RedVox infrasound recorder app were co-located with high-fidelity Hyperion overpressure sensors, allowing for direct comparison of the resolution and frequency content of the devices. Data from the traditional sensors is used to characterize blast signatures and to determine relative iPhone microphone amplitude and phase responses. A Wiener filter based source deconvolution method is applied, using a parameterized source function estimated from traditional overpressure sensor data, to estimate system responses. In addition, progress on a new parameterized air-blast model is presented. The model is based on the analysis of a large set of overpressure waveforms from several surface explosion test series. An appropriate functional form with parameters determined empirically from modern air-blast and acoustic data will allow for better parameterization of signals and the improved characterization of explosive sources.

  14. Impact of ammunition and military explosives on human health and the environment.

    PubMed

    Lima, Débora R S; Bezerra, Marcio L S; Neves, Eduardo B; Moreira, Fátima R

    2011-01-01

    To review the literature concerning the risks associated with the main xenobiotics contained in military ammunition and explosive residues and damage to human and environmental health. Using "ammunition", "military", "environmental", "health", "explosive", "metal", "TNT", "RDX", "pollution", and "contamination" as search terms, a large database, namely ISI Web of Knowledge and PubMed, was searched for studies on military ammunition and explosive residues from 1989 to 2010. Other sources used to conduct the search included the library of the Toxicology Laboratory of the Center for Workers' Health and Human Ecology (CESTEH) at the National School of Public Health. In total, 15 different combinations were used with the search words above and 708 papers were found. Among them, 76 papers concerned this review. More than 12 references of interest were discovered in the library of the CESTEH. The results were organized into metals, dinitrotoluene, trinitrotoluene (TNT), and royal demolition explosive (RDX), showing their main uses, occurrence in the environment, the current toxic effects to human and environmental health, and remediation possibilities. Because military activities can cause the acute and chronic exposure of human beings, the public administration must aim politics towards suitable environmental management.

  15. Characterizing the X-ray Emission in Small Magellanic Cloud Supernova Remnants

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Man, Nicole; Auchettl, Katie; Lopez, Laura

    2018-01-01

    The Small Magellanic Cloud is a close, metal-poor galaxy with active star formation, and it has a diverse population of 24 supernova remnants (SNRs) that have been identified at several wavelengths. Past work has characterized the X-ray emission in these sources separately and aimed to constrain their explosive origins from observations with Chandra and XMM-Newton. Three SNRs have possible evidence for Type Ia explosions based on strong Fe-L emission in their X-ray spectra, although the environments and intermediate-mass element abundances are more consistent with those of core-collapse SNe. In this poster, we analyze the archival Chandra and XMM-Newton observations of the SMC SNR sample, and we model the sources' X-ray spectra in a systematic way to derive the plasma properties and to constrain the nature of the explosions. In one SNR, we note the presence of an X-ray binary near the source's geometric center, suggesting the compact object was produced in the SN explosion. As one of only three SNRs known in the Local Group to host a binary system, this source is worthy of follow-up investigations to probe explosions of massive stars in binary systems.

  16. Eruptive mechanism at Volcán de Colima: Interpreting transitions between styles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Varley, N.; James, M. R.; Hutchison, W.; Arámbula, R.; Reyes, G.

    2013-05-01

    In January 2013 eruptions resumed at Volcán de Colima, the previous activity having ceased in June 2011. This period represented the quietest the volcano has been since before the previous episode commenced in 1998. The new eruptive episode is showing differences compared to the 1998-2011 period, which are presenting a challenge to interpret. Lower gases fluxes coupled with lower fumaroles temperatures are consistent with the decreasing trend of volatile-contents but the two larger Vulcanian eruptions in January produced pyroclastic density currents with a greater degree of fragmentation than previous events. A dome has been growing within the newly formed crater within the previous dome. The 1998-2011 eruption included five periods of effusive activity, with little variation in composition. Domes grew with effusion rates covering more than 2 orders of magnitude. Both explosive and effusive activity was centred at multiple locations within the summit crater. The SO2 flux showed a general declining trend throughout this period and 2005 included the largest pyroclastic flows witnessed since the last Plinian eruption in 1913. Swarms of small amplitude long period events were detected prior to each larger eruption, these have been again witnessed in 2013. The characteristics of the swarms is being compared, the generation of events being related to brittle fracturing along the conduit margin. The episode terminated in June 2011 with an explosion which removed the upper portion of the most recent and extended period of dome growth, which was at a very slow rate from January 2007. Automated 3D computer vision reconstruction techniques (structure-from-motion and multi-view stereo, SfM-MVS) have permitted the estimation of dome volumes from 1 m resolution digital elevation models. A small decrease in volume (0.4×105 m3) was detected prior to the explosion, which was related to the formation of steps in the dome surface, related to localized zones of weakness. For the explosion, the region of greatest volume loss was observed to be not coincident with the assumed location of the conduit, suggesting and that heterogeneity within the dome was important during the June explosion. Analysis of thermal images taken during flights has permitted the detailed modelling of the dome emplacement processes. The onset of rockfalls on the W side once it reached the crater rim provoked a change in emplacement style from endogenic to exogenic. Monitoring the activity during the recent eruption has produced a wealth of data making it an excellent case study for modelling transitions between different regimes and the generating mechanism for Vulcanian explosions.

  17. Excessive daytime sleepiness does not correlate with sympathetic nervous system activation and arterial stiffening in patients with mild-to-moderate obstructive sleep apnoea: A proof-of-principle study.

    PubMed

    Bisogni, Valeria; Pengo, Martino F; Drakatos, Panagis; Maiolino, Giuseppe; Kent, Brian; Rossitto, Giacomo; Steier, Joerg; Rossi, Gian Paolo

    2017-06-01

    Increased arterial stiffness and sympathetic nervous system activity, independent markers of cardiovascular risk, are common in patients with severe obstructive sleep apnoea, who have excessive daytime sleepiness. Among patients with mild-to-moderate obstructive sleep apnoea, however, it remains unknown whether arterial stiffness and/or increased sympathetic nervous system activity correlate with excessive daytime sleepiness. We measured heart rate variability, as an index of autonomic nervous system activity, and arterial stiffness index, as a marker of vascular damage and cardiovascular risk, in 56 men aged 18 to 75years, with mild-to-moderate obstructive sleep apnoea, and matched into two groups, "sleepy" (Epworth Sleepiness Scale≥10) and "non-sleepy" (Epworth Sleepiness Scale<10). We found no association of excessive daytime sleepiness with sympathetic nervous system activation (very low frequency power 18,947±11,207ms 2 vs 15,893±8,272ms 2 , p=0.28; low frequency (LH) power 17,753±8,441ms 2 vs 15,414±5,666ms 2 , p=0.26; high frequency (HF) power 7,527±1,979ms 2 vs 8,257±3,416ms 2 , p=0.36; LF/HF ratio 3.04±1.37 vs 2.55±1.01, p=0.15) and mean arterial stiffness index (6.97±0.83 vs 7.26±0.66, p=0.18) in mild-to-moderate obstructive sleep apnoea patients. Symptoms of excessive daytime sleepiness are not associated with sympathetic nervous system activation and arterial stiffness in male subjects with mild-to-moderate obstructive sleep apnoea. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  18. Decrease of total activity with time at long distances from a nuclear accident or explosion.

    PubMed

    Dolejs, Josef

    2005-05-01

    Two data groups were analyzed: (1) the exposure rate in the former Czechoslovakia after the Chernobyl accident in 1986, and (2) the decrease of beta activity of an atmospheric fallout sample taken in Bratislava during 24 h on 30 May 1965. Both quantities decreased with the first power of time. This pattern of decrease is explained by applying the same mathematical formalism as is also used to describe the decrease in postnatal mortality with age. Following this formalism, the decrease of total activity with the first power of time could be seen as a consequence of a log-normal distribution of decay constants in the fallout. This differs slightly from earlier results that show the total activity decreasing with a power of 1.2 immediately after the nuclear explosion.

  19. The Association Between Effective Dose of Magnesium and Mild Compulsive Exercise on Spatial Learning, Memory, and Motor Activity of Adult Male Rats.

    PubMed

    Hajizade Ghonsulakandi, Shahnaz; Sheikh, Mahmuod; Dehghan Shasaltaneh, Marzieh; Chopani, Samira; Naghdi, Nasser

    2017-08-01

    One of the most important survival mechanisms is learning and memory processes. To emphasize the role of physical exercises and magnesium (Mg) in improvement of cognitive performance, we planned to investigate the effect of Mg and mild compulsive exercise on spatial learning and memory of adult male rats. Accordingly, we divided male Wistar rats into four groups: (I) control, (II) Mg treatment, (III) exercise, and (IV) Mg-exercise in the different dosages of Mg (0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 mmol/kbw) were injected in the form of gavage during 1 week. Also, 1-week mild running on treadmill was used for exercise treatment. The Morris water maze (MWM) test and open field tool were used to evaluate spatial learning, memory, and motor activity, respectively. Our results clearly showed that 1 mmol/kbw Mg was applied as an effective dosage. Strikingly, 1-week mild exercise on treadmill had no significant effect on spatial motor activity, learning, and memory. Feeding 1 mmol/kbw Mg for a week showed a significant difference in learning and exploration stages. Compared to control animals, these results reveal exercise and Mg simultaneously had effect on learning and reminding. As a consequence, although mild exercise had no effect on motor activity and memory, Mg intake improved spatial learning, memory, and locomotor activity. The Mg feeding could be a promising supplemental treatment in the neurodegenerative disease. It is worthwhile to mention consumption of Mg leads to enhancement of memory, so animals find the hidden platform with the highest velocity.

  20. Dementia resulting from traumatic brain injury

    PubMed Central

    Ramalho, Joana; Castillo, Mauricio

    2015-01-01

    Traumatic brain injury (TBI) represents a significant public health problem in modern societies. It is primarily a consequence of traffic-related accidents and falls. Other recently recognized causes include sports injuries and indirect forces such as shock waves from battlefield explosions. TBI is an important cause of death and lifelong disability and represents the most well-established environmental risk factor for dementia. With the growing recognition that even mild head injury can lead to neurocognitive deficits, imaging of brain injury has assumed greater importance. However, there is no single imaging modality capable of characterizing TBI. Current advances, particularly in MR imaging, enable visualization and quantification of structural and functional brain changes not hitherto possible. In this review, we summarize data linking TBI with dementia, emphasizing the imaging techniques currently available in clinical practice along with some advances in medical knowledge. PMID:29213985

  1. Evolutionary Metal Oxide Clusters for Novel Applications: Toward High-Density Data Storage in Nonvolatile Memories.

    PubMed

    Chen, Xiaoli; Zhou, Ye; Roy, Vellaisamy A L; Han, Su-Ting

    2018-01-01

    Because of current fabrication limitations, miniaturizing nonvolatile memory devices for managing the explosive increase in big data is challenging. Molecular memories constitute a promising candidate for next-generation memories because their properties can be readily modulated through chemical synthesis. Moreover, these memories can be fabricated through mild solution processing, which can be easily scaled up. Among the various materials, polyoxometalate (POM) molecules have attracted considerable attention for use as novel data-storage nodes for nonvolatile memories. Here, an overview of recent advances in the development of POMs for nonvolatile memories is presented. The general background knowledge of the structure and property diversity of POMs is also summarized. Finally, the challenges and perspectives in the application of POMs in memories are discussed. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  2. PTSD-Related Behavioral Traits in a Rat Model of Blast-Induced mTBI Are Reversed by the mGluR2/3 Receptor Antagonist BCI-838.

    PubMed

    Perez-Garcia, Georgina; De Gasperi, Rita; Gama Sosa, Miguel A; Perez, Gissel M; Otero-Pagan, Alena; Tschiffely, Anna; McCarron, Richard M; Ahlers, Stephen T; Elder, Gregory A; Gandy, Sam

    2018-01-01

    Battlefield blast exposure related to improvised explosive devices (IEDs) has become the most common cause of traumatic brain injury (TBI) in the recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. Mental health problems are common after TBI. A striking feature in the most recent veterans has been the frequency with which mild TBI (mTBI) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have appeared together, in contrast to the classical situations in which the presence of mTBI has excluded the diagnosis of PTSD. However, treatment of PTSD-related symptoms that follow blast injury has become a significant problem. BCI-838 (MGS0210) is a Group II metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR2/3) antagonist prodrug, and its active metabolite BCI-632 (MGS0039) has proneurogenic, procognitive, and antidepressant activities in animal models. In humans, BCI-838 is currently in clinical trials for refractory depression and suicidality. The aim of the current study was to determine whether BCI-838 could modify the anxiety response and reverse PTSD-related behaviors in rats exposed to a series of low-level blast exposures designed to mimic a human mTBI or subclinical blast exposure. BCI-838 treatment reversed PTSD-related behavioral traits improving anxiety and fear-related behaviors as well as long-term recognition memory. Treatment with BCI-838 also increased neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus (DG) of blast-exposed rats. The safety profile of BCI-838 together with the therapeutic activities reported here, make BCI-838 a promising drug for the treatment of former battlefield Warfighters suffering from PTSD-related symptoms following blast-induced mTBI.

  3. PTSD-Related Behavioral Traits in a Rat Model of Blast-Induced mTBI Are Reversed by the mGluR2/3 Receptor Antagonist BCI-838

    PubMed Central

    Perez-Garcia, Georgina; De Gasperi, Rita; Gama Sosa, Miguel A.; Perez, Gissel M.; Otero-Pagan, Alena; Tschiffely, Anna; McCarron, Richard M.; Ahlers, Stephen T.

    2018-01-01

    Battlefield blast exposure related to improvised explosive devices (IEDs) has become the most common cause of traumatic brain injury (TBI) in the recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. Mental health problems are common after TBI. A striking feature in the most recent veterans has been the frequency with which mild TBI (mTBI) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have appeared together, in contrast to the classical situations in which the presence of mTBI has excluded the diagnosis of PTSD. However, treatment of PTSD-related symptoms that follow blast injury has become a significant problem. BCI-838 (MGS0210) is a Group II metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR2/3) antagonist prodrug, and its active metabolite BCI-632 (MGS0039) has proneurogenic, procognitive, and antidepressant activities in animal models. In humans, BCI-838 is currently in clinical trials for refractory depression and suicidality. The aim of the current study was to determine whether BCI-838 could modify the anxiety response and reverse PTSD-related behaviors in rats exposed to a series of low-level blast exposures designed to mimic a human mTBI or subclinical blast exposure. BCI-838 treatment reversed PTSD-related behavioral traits improving anxiety and fear-related behaviors as well as long-term recognition memory. Treatment with BCI-838 also increased neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus (DG) of blast-exposed rats. The safety profile of BCI-838 together with the therapeutic activities reported here, make BCI-838 a promising drug for the treatment of former battlefield Warfighters suffering from PTSD-related symptoms following blast-induced mTBI. PMID:29387781

  4. Using the spatial distribution and lithology of ballistic blocks to interpret eruption sequence and dynamics: August 6 2012 Upper Te Maari eruption, New Zealand

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Breard, E. C. P.; Lube, G.; Cronin, S. J.; Fitzgerald, R.; Kennedy, B.; Scheu, B.; Montanaro, C.; White, J. D. L.; Tost, M.; Procter, J. N.; Moebis, A.

    2014-10-01

    The ballistic ejection of blocks during explosive eruptions constitutes a major hazard near active volcanoes. Fields of ballistic clasts can provide important clues towards quantifying the energy, dynamics and directionality of explosive events, but detailed datasets are rare. During the 6 August 2012 hydrothermal eruption of Upper Te Maari (Tongariro), New Zealand, three explosions occurred in rapid succession within less than 20 s. The first two produced laterally-directed pyroclastic density currents (PDC), and the final vertical explosion generated an ash plume. Each of these explosions was associated with the ejection of ballistic blocks. We present detailed maps of the resulting 5.1 km2 block impact field and the distribution of the > 2200 impact craters with diameters > 2.5 m. There are two distinct regions of high crater concentration, where crater densities reach more than six times the average background density. These occur at distances of 500-700 m east and 1000-1350 west of a 430-m-long fissure that was created during the eruption. The high-density fields are characterized by a narrow radial spread of < 45° and are located along the proximal transport direction of the pyroclastic density currents. A provenance analysis of ballistic blocks allowed us to reconstruct two different eruptive vents for the explosions. The first two laterally-directed explosions were sourced from the fissure, while the third explosion occurred through the pre-existing Upper Te Maari Crater, generating a roughly axisymmetric shower of ballistics. Stratigraphic relationships between impact craters, PDC and fall deposits suggest that the ballistic blocks were initially coupled with the rapidly expanding gas-particle mixtures that produced the PDCs. Ballistic trajectory modeling, reproducing the lateral extent and main impact density pattern of the western impact field, allows estimation of the vertical expansion angle of the second and largest explosion. The calculations show that the largest proportion of the explosion energy was strongly focused as a narrow and extremely shallow (from - 3 to 15° from the horizontal) laterally expanding hydrothermal blast. The results presented here constitute an important data set for ballistic hazard assessment at Tongariro volcano and they can provide further clues towards better understanding highly energetic laterally directed volcanic explosions at similar hydrothermal fields.

  5. Preliminary volcano-hazard assessment for Aniakchak Volcano, Alaska

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Neal, Christina A.; McGimsey, Robert G.; Miller, Thomas P.; Riehle, James R.; Waythomas, Christopher F.

    2000-01-01

    Aniakchak is an active volcano located on the Alaska Peninsula 670 kilometers southwest of Anchorage. The volcano consists of a dramatic, 10-kilometer-diameter, 0.5 to 1.0-kilometer-deep caldera that formed during a catastrophic eruption 3,500 years ago. Since then, at least a dozen separate vents within the caldera have erupted, often explosively, to produce lava flows and widespread tephra (ash) deposits. The most recent eruption at Aniakchak occurred in 1931 and was one of the largest explosive eruptions in Alaska in the last 100 years. Although Aniakchak volcano presently shows no signs of unrest, explosive and nonexplosive eruptions will occur in the future. Awareness of the hazards posed by future eruptions is a key factor in minimizing impact.

  6. Explosive eruptions triggered by rockfalls at Kīlauea volcano, Hawaii

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Orr, Tim R.; Thelen, Weston A.; Patrick, Matthew R.; Swanson, Donald A.; Wilson, David C.

    2012-01-01

    Ongoing eruptive activity at Kīlauea volcano’s (Hawai‘i) summit has been controlled in part by the evolution of its vent from a 35-m-diameter opening into a collapse crater 150 m across. Geologic observations, in particular from a network of webcams, have provided an unprecedented look at collapse crater development, lava lake dynamics, and shallow outgassing processes. These observations show unequivocally that the hundreds of transient outgassing bursts and weak explosive eruptions that have punctuated the vent’s otherwise nearly steady-state behavior, and that are associated with composite seismic events, were triggered by rockfalls from the vent walls onto the top of the lava column. While the process by which rockfalls drive the explosive bursts is not fully understood, we believe that it is initiated by the generation of a rebound splash, or Worthington jet, which then undergoes fragmentation. The external triggering of low-energy outgassing events by rockfalls represents a new class of small transient explosive eruptions.

  7. Recent neuroimaging techniques in mild traumatic brain injury.

    PubMed

    Belanger, Heather G; Vanderploeg, Rodney D; Curtiss, Glenn; Warden, Deborah L

    2007-01-01

    Mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) is characterized by acute physiological changes that result in at least some acute cognitive difficulties and typically resolve by 3 months postinjury. Because the majority of mild TBI patients have normal structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)/computed tomography (CT) scans, there is increasing attention directed at finding objective physiological correlates of persistent cognitive and neuropsychiatric symptoms through experimental neuroimaging techniques. The authors review studies utilizing these techniques in patients with mild TBI; these techniques may provide more sensitive assessment of structural and functional abnormalities following mild TBI. Particular promise is evident with fMRI, PET, and SPECT scanning, as demonstrated by associations between brain activation and clinical outcomes.

  8. Effect of interleukin-1beta on the behavior of rats during mild stress in the open-field test.

    PubMed

    Pertsov, S S; Koplik, E V; Simbirtsev, A S; Kalinichenko, L S

    2009-11-01

    We studied the effect of interleukin-1beta on the behavior of rats with different individual typological characteristics during mild stress in the open-field test. Intraperitoneal injection of interleukin-1beta (5 microg/kg, 108 U/mg) was followed by a decrease in orientation and exploratory activity of passive and, particularly, of active animals in the open field. As differentiated from rats receiving physiological saline, the initial differences in behavioral characteristics of active and passive animals were not revealed in the repeated test after injection of interleukin-1beta. We conclude that interleukin-1beta abolishes the behavioral differences between active and passive specimens in the open field. These data suggest that administration of interleukin-1beta to rats leads to reorganization of the mechanisms for emotional evaluation of adverse emotiogenic factors under conditions of mild stress in the open-field test.

  9. Investigating Degassing in Felsic and Mafic Magmas by 3-D Imaging of Vesicle Pathways

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Polacci, M.; Baker, D. R.; Piochi, M.; Mancini, L.

    2009-12-01

    Volatiles are the motor of volcanic eruptions. Studies of vesiculation in erupted products can provide information on how volatiles exsolve, grow and are lost from magmas as lava and tephra fragments bear the fingerprints of such processes in vesicle and crystal textures. We summarize here the results of a series of X-ray computed microtomographic experiments that were performed on about 70 volcanic specimens of mainly basaltic and trachytic compositions. A first sample suite comprises samples collected from explosive activity at persistently degassing basaltic volcanoes, namely Stromboli (Aeolian Islands), Etna (Eastern Sicily) and Ambrym (Vanuatu Islands); a second suite consists of pumice and scoria clasts from Plinian to Subplinian to Vulcanian eruptions that occurred in the Campi Flegrei caldera (Southern Italy). The tomographic images provide us with a complete 3-D view of our sampled material through which it is possible to reconstruct the geometry of the vesicle network and explore how gas was transported in the investigated magmas. We find that basaltic scoriae exhibit two types of vesicles: large (~ mm^3), coalescing vesicles with complex, convoluted shapes and small-to-intermediate sized (<~1x10^-3 mm^3), spherical to sub-spherical, poorly connected or isolated vesicles. The former vesicles were interpreted as percolation pathways for gas to flow non-explosively to the volcano crater and thought to sustain the persistent passive gas release that characterizes these volcanoes. The fact that such vesicles were found in products erupted from active basaltic volcanoes located in different tectonic settings and characterized by different explosivity strongly suggests that basaltic systems appear to follow a common degassing pathway. However, not all explosive basaltic rocks contain large, coalescing vesicles. Pumice clasts from the much more violent, dangerous and less frequent paroxysmal explosions at Stromboli do not have this type of vesicles, demonstrating that basaltic volcanoes develop different vesicle textures and therefore degassing dynamics with increasing explosive activity. Trachytic pumices from highly explosive eruptions display a much finer structure in comparison to scoriae having sub-spherical to slightly deformed large vesicles and a large population of small spherical vesicles (1x10^-3 - <1x10^-5 mm^3). These two vesicle textures were mainly ascribed to the rapid ascent of a supersaturated magma under closed-system degassing, in comparison to the open-system conditions of basaltic magmas. Large interconnected vesicles that form micro-cracks are, however, found in some denser pyroclasts from Campi Flegrei. This suggests that gas was percolating in the conduit system before the eruption and that open-system degassing may be an effective way through which gas is lost in a moderately violent manner at the crater surface in some explosive felsic eruptions. Ultimately this study reveals that 3-D imaging of volcanic rocks is an essential tool for investigating degassing conditions in erupted magmas.

  10. Transient deformation associated with explosive eruption measured at Masaya volcano (Nicaragua) using Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Stephens, K. J.; Ebmeier, S. K.; Young, N. K.; Biggs, J.

    2017-09-01

    Deformation caused by processes within a volcanic conduit are localised, transient, and therefore challenging to measure. However, observations of such deformation are important because they provide insight into conditions preceding explosive activity, and are important for hazard assessment. Here, we present measurements of low magnitude, transient deformation covering an area of ∼4 km2 at Masaya volcano spanning a period of explosive eruptions (30th April-17th May 2012). Radial uplift of duration 24 days and peak displacements of a few millimeters occurred in the month before the eruption, but switched to subsidence ∼27 days before the onset of the explosive eruption on 30th of April. Uplift resumed during, and continued for ∼16 days after the end of the explosive eruption period. We use a finite element modelling approach to investigate a range of possible source geometries for this deformation, and find that the changes in pressurisation of a conduit 450 m below the surface vent (radius 160 m and length 700 m), surrounded by a halo of brecciated material with a Young's modulus of 15 GPa, gave a good fit to the InSAR displacements. We propose that the pre-eruptive deformation sequence at Masaya is likely to have been caused by the movement of magma through a constriction within the shallow conduit system. Although measuring displacements associated with conduit processes remains challenging, new high resolution InSAR datasets will increasingly allow the measurement of transient and lower magnitude deformation signals, improving the method's applicability for observing transitions between volcanic activity characterised by an open and a closed conduit system.

  11. Closure device for lead-acid batteries

    DOEpatents

    Ledjeff, Konstantin

    1983-01-01

    A closure device for lead-acid batteries includes a filter of granulated activated carbon treated to be hydrophobic combined with means for preventing explosion of emitted hydrogen and oxygen gas. The explosion prevention means includes a vertical open-end tube within the closure housing for maintaining a liquid level above side wall openings in an adjacent closed end tube. Gases vent from the battery through a nozzle directed inside the closed end tube against an impingement surface to remove acid droplets. The gases then flow through the side wall openings and the liquid level to quench any possible ignition prior to entering the activated carbon filter. A wick in the activated carbon filter conducts condensed liquid back to the closure housing to replenish the liquid level limited by the open-end tube.

  12. Fossils, molecules and embryos: new perspectives on the Cambrian explosion

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Valentine, J. W.; Jablonski, D.; Erwin, D. H.

    1999-01-01

    The Cambrian explosion is named for the geologically sudden appearance of numerous metazoan body plans (many of living phyla) between about 530 and 520 million years ago, only 1.7% of the duration of the fossil record of animals. Earlier indications of metazoans are found in the Neoproterozic; minute trails suggesting bilaterian activity date from about 600 million years ago. Larger and more elaborate fossil burrows appear near 543 million years ago, the beginning of the Cambrian Period. Evidence of metazoan activity in both trace and body fossils then increased during the 13 million years leading to the explosion. All living phyla may have originated by the end of the explosion. Molecular divergences among lineages leading to phyla record speciation events that have been earlier than the origins of the new body plans, which can arise many tens of millions of years after an initial branching. Various attempts to date those branchings by using molecular clocks have disagreed widely. While the timing of the evolution of the developmental systems of living metazoan body plans is still uncertain, the distribution of Hox and other developmental control genes among metazoans indicates that an extensive patterning system was in place prior to the Cambrian. However, it is likely that much genomic repatterning occurred during the Early Cambrian, involving both key control genes and regulators within their downstream cascades, as novel body plans evolved.

  13. Neural correlates of saccadic inhibition in healthy elderly and patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment

    PubMed Central

    Alichniewicz, K. K.; Brunner, F.; Klünemann, H. H.; Greenlee, M. W.

    2013-01-01

    Performance on tasks that require saccadic inhibition declines with age and altered inhibitory functioning has also been reported in patients with Alzheimer's disease. Although mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is assumed to be a high-risk factor for conversion to AD, little is known about changes in saccadic inhibition and its neural correlates in this condition. Our study determined whether the neural activation associated with saccadic inhibition is altered in persons with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI). Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) revealed decreased activation in parietal lobe in healthy elderly persons compared to young persons and decreased activation in frontal eye fields in aMCI patients compared to healthy elderly persons during the execution of anti-saccades. These results illustrate that the decline in inhibitory functions is associated with impaired frontal activation in aMCI. This alteration in function might reflect early manifestations of AD and provide new insights in the neural activation changes that occur in pathological ageing. PMID:23898312

  14. Self-ignition of S.I. engine model fuels: A shock tube investigation at high pressure

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

    Fieweger, K.; Blumenthal, R.; Adomeit, G.

    1997-06-01

    The self-ignition of several spark-ignition (SI) engine fuels (iso-octane, methanol, methyl tert-butyl ether and three different mixtures of iso-octane and n-heptane), mixed with air, was investigated experimentally under relevant engine conditions by the shock tube technique. Typical modes of the self-ignition process were registered cinematographically. For temperatures relevant to piston engine combustion, the self-ignition process always starts as an inhomogeneous, deflagrative mild ignition. This instant is defined by the ignition delay time, {tau}{sub defl}. The deflagration process in most cases is followed by a secondary explosion (DDT). This transition defines a second ignition delay time, {tau}{sub DDT}, which is amore » suitable approximation for the chemical ignition delay time, if the change of the thermodynamic conditions of the unburned test gas due to deflagration is taken into account. For iso-octane at p = 40 bar, a NTC (negative temperature coefficient), behavior connected with a two step (cool flame) self-ignition at low temperatures was observed. This process was very pronounced for rich and less pronounced for stoichiometric mixtures. The results of the {tau}{sub DDT} delays of the stoichiometric mixtures were shortened by the primary deflagration process in the temperature range between 800 and 1,000 K. Various mixtures of iso-octane and n-heptane were investigated. The results show a strong influence of the n-heptane fraction in the mixture, both on the ignition delay time and on the mode of self-ignition. The self-ignition of methanol and MTBE (methyl tert-butyl ether) is characterized by a very pronounced initial deflagration. For temperatures below 900 K (methanol: 800 K), no secondary explosion occurs. Taking into account the pressure increase due to deflagration, the measured delays {tau}{sub DDT} of the secondary explosion are shortened by up to one order of magnitude.« less

  15. A Multi-Mode Shock Tube for Investigation of Blast-Induced Traumatic Brain Injury

    PubMed Central

    Reneer, Dexter V.; Hisel, Richard D.; Hoffman, Joshua M.; Kryscio, Richard J.; Lusk, Braden T.

    2011-01-01

    Abstract Blast-induced mild traumatic brain injury (bTBI) has become increasingly common in recent military conflicts. The mechanisms by which non-impact blast exposure results in bTBI are incompletely understood. Current small animal bTBI models predominantly utilize compressed air-driven membrane rupture as their blast wave source, while large animal models use chemical explosives. The pressure-time signature of each blast mode is unique, making it difficult to evaluate the contributions of the different components of the blast wave to bTBI when using a single blast source. We utilized a multi-mode shock tube, the McMillan blast device, capable of utilizing compressed air- and compressed helium-driven membrane rupture, and the explosives oxyhydrogen and cyclotrimethylenetrinitramine (RDX, the primary component of C-4 plastic explosives) as the driving source. At similar maximal blast overpressures, the positive pressure phase of compressed air-driven blasts was longer, and the positive impulse was greater, than those observed for shockwaves produced by other driving sources. Helium-driven shockwaves more closely resembled RDX blasts, but by displacing air created a hypoxic environment within the shock tube. Pressure-time traces from oxyhydrogen-driven shockwaves were very similar those produced by RDX, although they resulted in elevated carbon monoxide levels due to combustion of the polyethylene bag used to contain the gases within the shock tube prior to detonation. Rats exposed to compressed air-driven blasts had more pronounced vascular damage than those exposed to oxyhydrogen-driven blasts of the same peak overpressure, indicating that differences in blast wave characteristics other than peak overpressure may influence the extent of bTBI. Use of this multi-mode shock tube in small animal models will enable comparison of the extent of brain injury with the pressure-time signature produced using each blast mode, facilitating evaluation of the blast wave components contributing to bTBI. PMID:21083431

  16. A multi-mode shock tube for investigation of blast-induced traumatic brain injury.

    PubMed

    Reneer, Dexter V; Hisel, Richard D; Hoffman, Joshua M; Kryscio, Richard J; Lusk, Braden T; Geddes, James W

    2011-01-01

    Blast-induced mild traumatic brain injury (bTBI) has become increasingly common in recent military conflicts. The mechanisms by which non-impact blast exposure results in bTBI are incompletely understood. Current small animal bTBI models predominantly utilize compressed air-driven membrane rupture as their blast wave source, while large animal models use chemical explosives. The pressure-time signature of each blast mode is unique, making it difficult to evaluate the contributions of the different components of the blast wave to bTBI when using a single blast source. We utilized a multi-mode shock tube, the McMillan blast device, capable of utilizing compressed air- and compressed helium-driven membrane rupture, and the explosives oxyhydrogen and cyclotrimethylenetrinitramine (RDX, the primary component of C-4 plastic explosives) as the driving source. At similar maximal blast overpressures, the positive pressure phase of compressed air-driven blasts was longer, and the positive impulse was greater, than those observed for shockwaves produced by other driving sources. Helium-driven shockwaves more closely resembled RDX blasts, but by displacing air created a hypoxic environment within the shock tube. Pressure-time traces from oxyhydrogen-driven shockwaves were very similar those produced by RDX, although they resulted in elevated carbon monoxide levels due to combustion of the polyethylene bag used to contain the gases within the shock tube prior to detonation. Rats exposed to compressed air-driven blasts had more pronounced vascular damage than those exposed to oxyhydrogen-driven blasts of the same peak overpressure, indicating that differences in blast wave characteristics other than peak overpressure may influence the extent of bTBI. Use of this multi-mode shock tube in small animal models will enable comparison of the extent of brain injury with the pressure-time signature produced using each blast mode, facilitating evaluation of the blast wave components contributing to bTBI.

  17. Junctional bradycardia with verapamil in renal failure--care required even with mild hyperkalaemia.

    PubMed

    Hegazi, M O; Aldabie, G; Al-Mutairi, S; El Sayed, A

    2012-12-01

    Treatment for hypertension with verapamil has a favourable renoprotective effect and is generally considered safe in patients with mild to moderate renal failure. In this report, we highlight the vulnerability of patients with mild to moderate renal failure to verapamil side effects especially in the presence of hyperkalaemia. We report two cases of junctional bradycardia with slow release (SR) verapamil therapy in the presence of mild hyperkalaemia in patients with mild to moderate chronic renal failure. Verapamil and hyperkalaemia may synergistically increase the vulnerability to atrioventricular conduction delay. Renal failure patients with baseline mild hyperkalaemia are particularly liable to bradyarrhythmias with SR verapamil. In such cases, we would recommend verapamil dose reduction and avoidance of SR formulation. In cases of verapamil toxicity, actively treating any level of hyperkalaemia is recommended. © 2012 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

  18. Construct Validity of the Nutrition and Activity Knowledge Scale in a French Sample of Adolescents with Mild to Moderate Intellectual Disability

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Maiano, Christophe; Begarie, Jerome; Morin, Alexandre J. S.; Garbarino, Jean-Marie; Ninot, Gregory

    2010-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to test the reliability (i.e. internal consistency and test-retest reliability) and construct validity (i.e. content validity, factor validity, measurement invariance, and latent mean invariance) of the Nutrition and Activity Knowledge Scale (NAKS) in a sample of French adolescents with mild to moderate Intellectual…

  19. Integrating science and education during an international, multi-parametric investigation of volcanic activity at Santiaguito volcano, Guatemala

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lavallée, Yan; Johnson, Jeffrey; Andrews, Benjamin; Wolf, Rudiger; Rose, William; Chigna, Gustavo; Pineda, Armand

    2016-04-01

    In January 2016, we held the first scientific/educational Workshops on Volcanoes (WoV). The workshop took place at Santiaguito volcano - the most active volcano in Guatemala. 69 international scientists of all ages participated in this intensive, multi-parametric investigation of the volcanic activity, which included the deployment of seismometers, tiltmeters, infrasound microphones and mini-DOAS as well as optical, thermographic, UV and FTIR cameras around the active vent. These instruments recorded volcanic activity in concert over a period of 3 to 9 days. Here we review the research activities and present some of the spectacular observations made through this interdisciplinary efforts. Observations range from high-resolution drone and IR footage of explosions, monitoring of rock falls and quantification of the erupted mass of different gases and ash, as well as morphological changes in the dome caused by recurring explosions (amongst many other volcanic processes). We will discuss the success of such integrative ventures in furthering science frontiers and developing the next generation of geoscientists.

  20. The Limit of Free Magnetic Energy in Active Regions

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Moore, Ron; Falconer, David; Sterling, Alphonse

    2012-01-01

    By measuring from active-region magnetograms a proxy of the free energy in the active region fs magnetic field, it has been found previously that (1) there is an abrupt upper limit to the free energy the field can hold that increases with the amount of magnetic field in the active region, the active region fs magnetic flux content, and (2) the free energy is usually near its limit when the field explodes in a CME/flare eruption. That is, explosive active regions are concentrated in a main-sequence path bordering the free-energy ]limit line in (flux content, free-energy proxy) phase space. Here, from measurement of Marshall Space Flight Center vector magnetograms, we find the magnetic condition that underlies the free ]energy limit and the accompanying main sequence of explosive active regions. Using a suitable free ]energy proxy measured from vector magnetograms of 44 active regions, we find that (1) in active regions at and near their free ]energy limit, the ratio of magnetic-shear free energy to the non ]free magnetic energy the potential field would have is approximately 1 in the core field, the field rooted along the neutral line, and (2) this ratio is progressively less in active regions progressively farther below their free ]energy limit. This shows that most active regions in which this core-field energy ratio is much less than 1 cannot be triggered to explode; as this ratio approaches 1, most active regions become capable of exploding; and when this ratio is 1 or greater, most active regions are compelled to explode. From these results we surmise the magnetic condition that determines the free ]energy limit is the ratio of the free magnetic energy to the non-free energy the active region fs field would have were it completely relaxed to its potential ]field configuration, and that this ratio is approximately 1 at the free-energy limit and in the main sequence of explosive active regions.

  1. Budesonide 9 mg is at least as effective as mesalamine 4.5 g in patients with mildly to moderately active Crohn's disease.

    PubMed

    Tromm, Andreas; Bunganič, Ivan; Tomsová, Eva; Tulassay, Zsolt; Lukáš, Milan; Kykal, Jan; Bátovský, Marian; Fixa, Bohumil; Gabalec, Libor; Safadi, Rifaat; Kramm, Heinz-Jochen; Altorjay, István; Löhr, Hanns; Koutroubakis, Ioannis; Bar-Meir, Simon; Stimac, Davor; Schäffeler, Elke; Glasmacher, Christoph; Dilger, Karin; Mohrbacher, Ralf; Greinwald, Roland

    2011-02-01

    Comparative data on budesonide vs mesalamine for the treatment of mild-to-moderately active Crohn's disease (CD) are sparse. We assessed the efficacy and safety of each therapy in patients with mildly to moderately active CD. We performed a randomized, double-blind, double-dummy, 8-week, multicenter study in which 309 patients with mildly to moderately active CD received pH-modified-release oral budesonide (9 mg/day once daily or 3 mg/day 3 times daily) or Eudragit-L-coated oral mesalamine (4.5 g/day). The primary efficacy variable, clinical remission (defined as Crohn's Disease Activity Index ≤150), at the final visit occurred in 69.5% (107 of 154) of patients given budesonide vs 62.1% (95 of 153) of patients given mesalamine (difference, 7.4%; 95% repeated confidence interval, -4.6% to 18.0%; P = .001 for noninferiority). Clinical remission rates did not differ significantly between the 2 budesonide groups. Treatment response, defined as Crohn's Disease Activity Index of 150 or less and/or a decrease of 70 or more (Δ70) or 100 or more (Δ100) points from baseline to final visit, did not differ significantly between patients given budesonide vs mesalamine (Δ70, P = .11; Δ100, P = .15), or between the 2 budesonide groups (Δ70, P = .38; Δ100, P = .78). No other efficacy end points differed significantly between groups. Discontinuation because of adverse events occurred in 3% and 5% of budesonide- and mesalamine-treated patients, respectively. There were no clinically relevant differences in adverse events between the 2 budesonide groups. Budesonide (9 mg/day) was numerically, but not statistically, more effective than Eudragit-L-coated mesalamine (4.5 g/day) in patients with mildly to moderately active CD. Budesonide (9 mg/day), administered once daily, was as effective as the standard (3 times daily) regimen. Copyright © 2011 AGA Institute. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  2. A Study of Interdiffusion in the Fe-C/Ti System Under Equilibrium and Nonequilibrium Conditions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Prasanthi, T. N.; Sudha, C.; Saroja, S.

    2017-04-01

    In the present study, diffusion behavior under equilibrium and nonequilibrium conditions in a Fe-C/Ti system is studied in the temperature range of 773 K to 1073 K (500 °C to 800 °C). A defect-free weld joint between mild steel (MS) (Fe-0.14 pct C) and Ti Grade 2 obtained by friction welding is diffusion annealed for various durations to study the interdiffusion behavior under equilibrium conditions, while an explosive clad joint is used to study interdiffusion under nonequilibrium conditions. From the elemental concentration profiles obtained across the MS-Ti interface using electron-probe microanalysis and imaging of the interface, the formation of distinct diffusion zones as a function of temperature and time is established. Concentration and temperature dependence of the interdiffusion coefficients ( D( c)) and activation energies are determined. Under equilibrium conditions, the change in molar volume with concentration shows a close match with the ideal Vegard's law, whereas a negative deviation is observed for nonequilibrium conditions. This deviation can be attributed to the formation of secondary phases, which, in turn, alters the D( c) values of diffusing species. Calculations showed that the D 0 and activation energy for interdiffusion under equilibrium is on the order of 10-11 m2/s and 147 kJ/mol, whereas it is far lower in the nonequilibrium case (10-10 m2/s and 117 kJ/mol) in the compositional range of 40 to 50 wt pct Fe, which also manifests as accelerated growth kinetics of the different diffusion zones.

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

    Ritter, Boyd

    Insensitive high explosives (IHEs) based on 1,3,5-triamino 2,4,6-trinitro-benzene (TATB) are the IHEs of choice for use in nuclear warheads over conventional high explosives when safety is the only consideration, because they are very insensitive to thermal or mechanical initiation stimuli. It is this inherent insensitivity to high temperatures, shock, and impact, which provides detonation design challenges when designing TATB explosive systems while at the same time providing a significant level of protection against accidental initiation. Although classified as IHE, over the past few years the focus on explosive safety has demonstrated that the shock sensitivity of TATB is influenced withmore » respect to temperature. A number of studies have been performed on TATB and TATB formulations, plastic bonded explosives (PBX) 9502, and LX-17-01 (LX-17), which demonstrates the increase in shock sensitivity of the explosive after it has been preheated or thermally cycled over various temperature ranges. Many studies suggest the change in sensitivity is partly due to the decomposition rates of the temperature elevated TATB. Others point to the coefficient of thermal expansion, the crystalline structures of TATB and/or the combination of all factors, which create voids which can become active hot spots. During thermal cycling, TATB is known to undergo an irreversible increase in specific volume called ratchet growth. This increase in specific volume correlates to a decrease in density. This decrease in density and increase in volume, demonstrate the creations of additional void spaces which could serve as potential new initiation hot spots thus, increasing the overall sensitivity of the HE. This literature review evaluates the published works to understand why the shock sensitivity of TATB-based plastic bonded explosives (PBXs) changes with temperature.« less

  4. 49 CFR 172.522 - EXPLOSIVES 1.1, EXPLOSIVES 1.2 and EXPLOSIVES 1.3 placards.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... 49 Transportation 2 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false EXPLOSIVES 1.1, EXPLOSIVES 1.2 and EXPLOSIVES 1.3... INFORMATION, TRAINING REQUIREMENTS, AND SECURITY PLANS Placarding § 172.522 EXPLOSIVES 1.1, EXPLOSIVES 1.2 and EXPLOSIVES 1.3 placards. (a) Except for size and color, the EXPLOSIVES 1.1, EXPLOSIVES 1.2 and EXPLOSIVES 1.3...

  5. 49 CFR 172.522 - EXPLOSIVES 1.1, EXPLOSIVES 1.2 and EXPLOSIVES 1.3 placards.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... 49 Transportation 2 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false EXPLOSIVES 1.1, EXPLOSIVES 1.2 and EXPLOSIVES 1.3... INFORMATION, TRAINING REQUIREMENTS, AND SECURITY PLANS Placarding § 172.522 EXPLOSIVES 1.1, EXPLOSIVES 1.2 and EXPLOSIVES 1.3 placards. (a) Except for size and color, the EXPLOSIVES 1.1, EXPLOSIVES 1.2 and EXPLOSIVES 1.3...

  6. The discrimination of man-made explosions from earthquakes using seismo-acoustic analysis in the Korean Peninsula

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Che, Il-Young; Jeon, Jeong-Soo

    2010-05-01

    Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources (KIGAM) operates an infrasound network consisting of seven seismo-acoustic arrays in South Korea. Development of the arrays began in 1999, partially in collaboration with Southern Methodist University, with the goal of detecting distant infrasound signals from natural and anthropogenic phenomena in and around the Korean Peninsula. The main operational purpose of this network is to discriminate man-made seismic events from seismicity including thousands of seismic events per year in the region. The man-made seismic events are major cause of error in estimating the natural seismicity, especially where the seismic activity is weak or moderate such as in the Korean Peninsula. In order to discriminate the man-made explosions from earthquakes, we have applied the seismo-acoustic analysis associating seismic and infrasonic signals generated from surface explosion. The observations of infrasound at multiple arrays made it possible to discriminate surface explosion, because small or moderate size earthquake is not sufficient to generate infrasound. Till now we have annually discriminated hundreds of seismic events in seismological catalog as surface explosions by the seismo-acoustic analysis. Besides of the surface explosions, the network also detected infrasound signals from other sources, such as bolide, typhoons, rocket launches, and underground nuclear test occurred in and around the Korean Peninsula. In this study, ten years of seismo-acoustic data are reviewed with recent infrasonic detection algorithm and association method that finally linked to the seismic monitoring system of the KIGAM to increase the detection rate of surface explosions. We present the long-term results of seismo-acoustic analysis, the detection capability of the multiple arrays, and implications for seismic source location. Since the seismo-acoustic analysis is proved as a definite method to discriminate surface explosion, the analysis will be continuously used for estimating natural seismicity and understanding infrasonic sources.

  7. Atmospheric emission of NOx from mining explosives: A critical review

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Oluwoye, Ibukun; Dlugogorski, Bogdan Z.; Gore, Jeff; Oskierski, Hans C.; Altarawneh, Mohammednoor

    2017-10-01

    High-energy materials such as emulsions, slurries and ammonium-nitrate fuel-oil (ANFO) explosives play crucial roles in mining, quarrying, tunnelling and many other infrastructure activities, because of their excellent transport and blasting properties. These explosives engender environmental concerns, due to atmospheric pollution caused by emission of dust and nitrogen oxides (NOx) from blasts, the latter characterised by the average emission factor of 5 kg (t AN explosive)-1. This first-of-its-kind review provides a concise literature account of the formation of NOx during blasting of AN-based explosives, employed in surface operations. We estimate the total NOx emission rate from AN-based explosives as 0.05 Tg (i.e., 5 × 104 t) N per annum, compared to the total global annual anthropogenic NOx emissions of 41.3 × 106 t N y-1. Although minor in the global sense, the large localised plumes from blasting exhibit high NOx concentration (500 ppm) exceeding up to 3000 times the international standards. This emission has profound consequences at mining sites and for adjacent atmospheric environment, necessitating expensive management of exclusion zones. The review describes different types of AN energetic materials for civilian applications, and summarises the essential properties and terminologies pertaining to their use. Furthermore, we recapitulate the mechanisms that lead to the formation of the reactive nitrogen species in blasting of AN-based explosives, review their implications to atmospheric air pollution, and compare the mechanisms with those experienced in other thermal and combustion operations. We also examine the mitigation approaches, including guidelines and operational-control measures. The review discusses the abatement technologies such as the formulation of new explosive mixtures, comprising secondary fuels, spin traps and other additives, in light of their effectiveness and efficiency. We conclude the review with a summary of unresolved problems, identifying possible future developments and their impacts on the environment with emphasis on local and workplace loads.

  8. An institutional pilot study to investigate physical activity patterns in boys with haemophilia.

    PubMed

    Bouskill, V; Hilliard, P; Stephens, S; Zhang, C; Whitney, K; Carcao, M

    2016-09-01

    Haemophilia is a bleeding disorder characterized by musculoskeletal bleeding. Trauma-induced bleeding into joints and muscles may be associated with participation in physical activities. Recognizing this, persons with haemophilia may limit physical activities to avoid bleeding. The characterization of physical activity profiles (type, intensity, frequency and duration) in children with differing severities of haemophilia has not been well documented. This is required to better understand the relationship between physical activity and bleeding in children with haemophilia. This study was a prospective, cross-sectional, observational study to compare the quantity, type and intensity of physical activity as measured by accelerometry in boys with different haemophilia severities. Subjects wore an accelerometer daily for 1 week and completed validated self-report PedHAL and 3DPAR questionnaires. Accelerometer activity levels were classified as sedentary, light, moderate or vigorous. A total of 66 males were enrolled, 24 had mild/moderate and 42 had severe haemophilia. Subjects average age was 11.52 years (±3.99) and their average BMI was 20.74 kg m(2) (±5.68). Boys with severe haemophilia reported significantly more time per day spent in sedentary activities compared to those with mild/moderate haemophilia. Furthermore, the amount of time engaged in sedentary activities increased with age in those boys with severe haemophilia, whereas the opposite was true in those with mild/moderate haemophilia. We speculate that prophylaxis in children with severe haemophilia permitted them to engage in similar amounts of moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) as children with mild/moderate haemophilia. Increasing sedentary time in the severe cohort with age may be attributed to increasing arthropathy among other psychosocial factors. © 2016 The Authors. Haemophilia Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  9. Mount St. Helens, 1980 to now—what’s going on?

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Dzurisin, Daniel; Driedger, Carolyn L.; Faust, Lisa M.

    2013-01-01

    Mount St. Helens seized the world’s attention in 1980 when the largest historical landslide on Earth and a powerful explosive eruption reshaped the volcano, created its distinctive crater, and dramatically modified the surrounding landscape. An enormous lava dome grew episodically in the crater until 1986, when the volcano became relatively quiet. A new glacier grew in the crater, wrapping around and partly burying the lava dome. From 1987 to 2003, sporadic earthquake swarms and small steam explosions indicated that magma (molten rock) was being replenished deep underground. In 2004, steam-and-ash explosions heralded the start of another eruption. A quieter phase of continuous lava extrusion followed and lasted until 2008, building a new dome and doubling the volume of lava on the crater floor. Scientists with the U.S. Geological Survey and University of Washington’s Pacific Northwest Seismograph Network maintain constant watch for signs of renewed activity at Mount St. Helens and other Cascade volcanoes. Now is an ideal time for both actual and virtual visitors to Mount St. Helens to learn more about dramatic changes taking place on and beneath this active volcano.

  10. Human Health and Ecological Risk Assessment for the Operation of the Explosives Waste Treatment Facility at Site 300 of the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Volume 1: Report of Results

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

    Gallegos, G; Daniels, J; Wegrecki, A

    2006-04-24

    This document contains the human health and ecological risk assessment for the Resource Recovery and Conservation Act (RCRA) permit renewal for the Explosives Waste Treatment Facility (EWTF). Volume 1 is the text of the risk assessment, and Volume 2 (provided on a compact disc) is the supporting modeling data. The EWTF is operated by the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) at Site 300, which is located in the foothills between the cities of Livermore and Tracy, approximately 17 miles east of Livermore and 8 miles southwest of Tracy. Figure 1 is a map of the San Francisco Bay Area, showingmore » the location of Site 300 and other points of reference. One of the principal activities of Site 300 is to test what are known as ''high explosives'' for nuclear weapons. These are the highly energetic materials that provide the force to drive fissionable material to criticality. LLNL scientists develop and test the explosives and the integrated non-nuclear components in support of the United States nuclear stockpile stewardship program as well as in support of conventional weapons and the aircraft, mining, oil exploration, and construction industries. Many Site 300 facilities are used in support of high explosives research. Some facilities are used in the chemical formulation of explosives; others are locations where explosive charges are mechanically pressed; others are locations where the materials are inspected radiographically for such defects as cracks and voids. Finally, some facilities are locations where the machined charges are assembled before they are sent to the on-site test firing facilities, and additional facilities are locations where materials are stored. Wastes generated from high-explosives research are treated by open burning (OB) and open detonation (OD). OB and OD treatments are necessary because they are the safest methods for treating explosives wastes generated at these facilities, and they eliminate the requirement for further handling and transportation that would be required if the wastes were treated off site.« less

  11. Human Health and Ecological Risk Assessment for the Operation of the Explosives Waste Treatment Facility at Site 300 of the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory

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

    Gallegos, G; Daniels, J; Wegrecki, A

    2007-10-01

    This document contains the human health and ecological risk assessment for the Resource Recovery and Conservation Act (RCRA) permit renewal for the Explosives Waste Treatment Facility (EWTF). Volume 1 is the text of the risk assessment, and Volume 2 (provided on a compact disc) is the supporting modeling data. The EWTF is operated by the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) at Site 300, which is located in the foothills between the cities of Livermore and Tracy, approximately 17 miles east of Livermore and 8 miles southwest of Tracy. Figure 1 is a map of the San Francisco Bay Area, showingmore » the location of Site 300 and other points of reference. One of the principal activities of Site 300 is to test what are known as 'high explosives' for nuclear weapons. These are the highly energetic materials that provide the force to drive fissionable material to criticality. LLNL scientists develop and test the explosives and the integrated non-nuclear components in support of the United States nuclear stockpile stewardship program as well as in support of conventional weapons and the aircraft, mining, oil exploration, and construction industries. Many Site 300 facilities are used in support of high explosives research. Some facilities are used in the chemical formulation of explosives; others are locations where explosive charges are mechanically pressed; others are locations where the materials are inspected radiographically for such defects as cracks and voids. Finally, some facilities are locations where the machined charges are assembled before they are sent to the onsite test firing facilities, and additional facilities are locations where materials are stored. Wastes generated from high-explosives research are treated by open burning (OB) and open detonation (OD). OB and OD treatments are necessary because they are the safest methods for treating explosives wastes generated at these facilities, and they eliminate the requirement for further handling and transportation that would be required if the wastes were treated off site.« less

  12. Linking blast physics to biological outcomes in mild traumatic brain injury: Narrative review and preliminary report of an open-field blast model.

    PubMed

    Song, Hailong; Cui, Jiankun; Simonyi, Agnes; Johnson, Catherine E; Hubler, Graham K; DePalma, Ralph G; Gu, Zezong

    2018-03-15

    Blast exposures are associated with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and blast-induced TBIs are common injuries affecting military personnel. Department of Defense and Veterans Administration (DoD/VA) reports for TBI indicated that the vast majority (82.3%) has been mild TBI (mTBI)/concussion. mTBI and associated posttraumatic stress disorders (PTSD) have been called "the invisible injury" of the current conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. These injuries induce varying degrees of neuropathological alterations and, in some cases, chronic cognitive, behavioral and neurological disorders. Appropriate animal models of blast-induced TBI will not only assist the understanding of physical characteristics of the blast, but also help to address the potential mechanisms. This report provides a brief overview of physical principles of blast, injury mechanisms related to blast exposure, current blast animal models, and the neurological behavioral and neuropathological findings related to blast injury in experimental settings. We describe relationships between blast peak pressures and the observed injuries. We also report preliminary use of a highly reproducible and intensity-graded blast murine model carried out in open-field with explosives, and describe physical and pathological findings in this experimental model. Our results indicate close relationships between blast intensities and neuropathology and behavioral deficits, particularly at low level blast intensities relevant to mTBI. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  13. Examination of validity in spoken language evaluations: Adult onset stuttering following mild traumatic brain injury.

    PubMed

    Roth, Carole R; Cornis-Pop, Micaela; Beach, Woodford A

    2015-01-01

    Reports of increased incidence of adult onset stuttering in veterans and service members with mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) from combat operations in Iraq and Afghanistan lead to a reexamination of the neurogenic vs. psychogenic etiology of stuttering. This article proposes to examine the merit of the dichotomy between neurogenic and psychogenic bases of stuttering, including symptom exaggeration, for the evaluation and treatment of the disorder. Two case studies of adult onset stuttering in service members with mTBI from improvised explosive device blasts are presented in detail. Speech fluency was disrupted by abnormal pauses and speech hesitations, brief blocks, rapid repetitions, and occasional prolongations. There was also wide variability in the frequency of stuttering across topics and conversational situations. Treatment focused on reducing the frequency and severity of dysfluencies and included educational, psychological, environmental, and behavioral interventions. Stuttering characteristics as well as the absence of objective neurological findings ruled out neurogenic basis of stuttering in these two cases and pointed to psychogenic causes. However, the differential diagnosis had only limited value for developing the plan of care. The successful outcomes of the treatment serve to illustrate the complex interaction of neurological, psychological, emotional, and environmental factors of post-concussive symptoms and to underscore the notion that there are many facets to symptom presentation in post-combat health.

  14. INDUSTRIAL AND SCIENTIFIC APPLICATIONS OF NUCLEAR EXPLOSIONS

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

    Johnson, Gerald W.

    1960-01-19

    ABS>Information is given for a series of underground and surface nuclear explosions ranging from 0.055 to 19 kilotons in size. A model of four stages is developed and applied to the case of the Rainier explosion: (1) Nuclear Reaction, microsecond range. (2) Hydrodynamic Phase, millisecond range. (3) Quasi-Static Phase, secondminute range. (4) Longer-Term Phase, minute-year range. Data are given for the growth rate of the Rainier cavity up to 75 msec, partition of energy in the second stage, and distribution of temperature 5 months after the Rainier explosion. The following generalizations were made for tuff soil: Radioactivity can be containedmore » completely underground at depths of D = 400 W/sup 1/3/ or greater, where W is the energy release in kilotons; the cavity initially formed has a radius of R = 50 W/sup 1/3/; and 65 to 80% of the fission-product activity is in dilute (0.1 ppm) glass solution. The purpose and scheme of the three current AEC projects, Gnome, Project Oil Sand, and Project Chariot, are given. Also, some experiments to be done with nuclear explosions are suggested for space research, production of transplutonic isotopes, neutron resonance, other cross sections, earth's structure, and seismology. (D.L.C.)« less

  15. Theoretical investigations on the structures and properties of CL-20/TNT cocrystal and its defective models by molecular dynamics simulation.

    PubMed

    Hang, Gui-Yun; Yu, Wen-Li; Wang, Tao; Wang, Jin-Tao

    2018-06-09

    "Perfect" and defective models of CL-20/TNT cocrystal explosive were established. Molecular dynamics methods were introduced to determine the structures and predict the comprehensive performances, including stabilities, sensitivity, energy density and mechanical properties, of the different models. The influences of crystal defects on the properties of these explosives were investigated and evaluated. The results show that, compared with the "perfect" model, the rigidity and toughness of defective models are decreased, while the ductility, tenacity and plastic properties are enhanced. The binding energies, interaction energy of the trigger bond, and the cohesive energy density of defective crystals declined, thus implying that stabilities are weakened, the explosive molecule is activated, trigger bond strength is diminished and safety is worsened. Detonation performance showed that, owing to the influence of crystal defects, the density is lessened, detonation pressure and detonation velocity are also declined, i.e., the power of defective explosive is decreased. In a word, the crystal defects may have a favorable effect on the mechanical properties, but have a disadvantageous influence on sensitivity, stability and energy density of CL-20/TNT cocrystal explosive. The results could provide theoretical guidance and practical instructions to estimate the properties of defective crystal models.

  16. Automated detection and cataloging of global explosive volcanism using the International Monitoring System infrasound network

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Matoza, Robin S.; Green, David N.; Le Pichon, Alexis; Shearer, Peter M.; Fee, David; Mialle, Pierrick; Ceranna, Lars

    2017-04-01

    We experiment with a new method to search systematically through multiyear data from the International Monitoring System (IMS) infrasound network to identify explosive volcanic eruption signals originating anywhere on Earth. Detecting, quantifying, and cataloging the global occurrence of explosive volcanism helps toward several goals in Earth sciences and has direct applications in volcanic hazard mitigation. We combine infrasound signal association across multiple stations with source location using a brute-force, grid-search, cross-bearings approach. The algorithm corrects for a background prior rate of coherent unwanted infrasound signals (clutter) in a global grid, without needing to screen array processing detection lists from individual stations prior to association. We develop the algorithm using case studies of explosive eruptions: 2008 Kasatochi, Alaska; 2009 Sarychev Peak, Kurile Islands; and 2010 Eyjafjallajökull, Iceland. We apply the method to global IMS infrasound data from 2005-2010 to construct a preliminary acoustic catalog that emphasizes sustained explosive volcanic activity (long-duration signals or sequences of impulsive transients lasting hours to days). This work represents a step toward the goal of integrating IMS infrasound data products into global volcanic eruption early warning and notification systems. Additionally, a better understanding of volcanic signal detection and location with the IMS helps improve operational event detection, discrimination, and association capabilities.

  17. Biodegradation of the nitramine explosive CL-20.

    PubMed

    Trott, Sandra; Nishino, Shirley F; Hawari, Jalal; Spain, Jim C

    2003-03-01

    The cyclic nitramine explosive CL-20 (2,4,6,8,10,12-hexanitro-2,4,6,8,10,12-hexaazaisowurtzitane) was examined in soil microcosms to determine whether it is biodegradable. CL-20 was incubated with a variety of soils. The explosive disappeared in all microcosms except the controls in which microbial activity had been inhibited. CL-20 was degraded most rapidly in garden soil. After 2 days of incubation, about 80% of the initial CL-20 had disappeared. A CL-20-degrading bacterial strain, Agrobacterium sp. strain JS71, was isolated from enrichment cultures containing garden soil as an inoculum, succinate as a carbon source, and CL-20 as a nitrogen source. Growth experiments revealed that strain JS71 used 3 mol of nitrogen per mol of CL-20.

  18. Biodegradation of the Nitramine Explosive CL-20

    PubMed Central

    Trott, Sandra; Nishino, Shirley F.; Hawari, Jalal; Spain, Jim C.

    2003-01-01

    The cyclic nitramine explosive CL-20 (2,4,6,8,10,12-hexanitro-2,4,6,8,10,12-hexaazaisowurtzitane) was examined in soil microcosms to determine whether it is biodegradable. CL-20 was incubated with a variety of soils. The explosive disappeared in all microcosms except the controls in which microbial activity had been inhibited. CL-20 was degraded most rapidly in garden soil. After 2 days of incubation, about 80% of the initial CL-20 had disappeared. A CL-20-degrading bacterial strain, Agrobacterium sp. strain JS71, was isolated from enrichment cultures containing garden soil as an inoculum, succinate as a carbon source, and CL-20 as a nitrogen source. Growth experiments revealed that strain JS71 used 3 mol of nitrogen per mol of CL-20. PMID:12620886

  19. Concept and numerical simulations of a reactive anti-fragment armour layer

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hušek, Martin; Kala, Jiří; Král, Petr; Hokeš, Filip

    2017-07-01

    The contribution describes the concept and numerical simulation of a ballistic protective layer which is able to actively resist projectiles or smaller colliding fragments flying at high speed. The principle of the layer was designed on the basis of the action/reaction system of reactive armour which is used for the protection of armoured vehicles. As the designed ballistic layer consists of steel plates simultaneously combined with explosive material - primary explosive and secondary explosive - the technique of coupling the Finite Element Method with Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics was used for the simulations. Certain standard situations which the ballistic layer should resist were simulated. The contribution describes the principles for the successful execution of numerical simulations, their results, and an evaluation of the functionality of the ballistic layer.

  20. An Investigation into the Feasibility of Using Risk Assessment Methodology for Licensing Explosives Handling Ports

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1992-08-01

    Executive Magdalen House Stanley Precinct, Bootle Merseyside L20 3QZ United Kingdom P. A. MORETON SRD of AEA Technology Wigshaw Lane Culcheth...Cheshire WA3 4NE United Kingdom INTRODUCTION The system of control imposed on explosives movements through ports in Great Britain is based on...regulations). Regulation 7 of CIMAH requires a person in control of a ’top-tier’ industrial activity to submit to the HSE a written safety report. Such a

  1. Installation Restoration General Environmental Technology Development. Task 2. Incineration Test of Explosives Contaminated Soils at Savanna Army Depot Activity, Savanna, Illinois.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1984-04-01

    800OF and afterburner temperatures below 112000F. Explosives were detected in the combustion gases leaving the primary chamber for one test burn (i.e... combustion chamber. (c) Temperature in the secondary combustion chamber. l These key parameters were selected since they directly re- late to the...4523A 5.4 Heat exchanger (waste heat boiler) . The f lue gases discharged from the secondary combustion chamber were directed, via refractory-lined duct

  2. Explosives Washout Lagoons Soils Operable Unit Supplemental Investigation Technical and Environmental Management Support of Installation Restoration Technology Development Program Umatilla Depot Activity Hermiston, Oregon

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1992-04-15

    an ofcial endorsement or approval of the use of such commercial products. This report may not be cited for purposes of advertisement . "EngineersM M7...Logs Appendix C. Laboratory Results of Soil Samples Appendix D. Concentration of Contaminants vs . Depth in Soils Appendix E. Lithologic Profiles of...dramatic difference in concentrations of explosives in areas outside the lagoons vs . concentrations beneath the lagoons. The results confirm that ES-I

  3. Adaptive and maladaptive responses in skin: mild heat exposure protects against UVB-induced photoaging in mice.

    PubMed

    Haarmann-Stemmann, Thomas; Boege, Fritz; Krutmann, Jean

    2013-04-01

    In this issue, Matsuda et al. demonstrate the protective effect of mild heat preconditioning on UVB-induced photoaging in SKH-1 hairless mice. Mild heat exposure stimulates the upregulation of HSP70 chaperones, which inhibit the activities of matrix-degenerating enzymes, thereby avoiding wrinkle formation. This newly identified heat-mediated process of adaptation to UVB radiation exposure opens new opportunities to slow extrinsic skin aging.

  4. Activation of the Mechanistic Target of Rapamycin in SLE: Explosion of Evidence in the Last Five Years.

    PubMed

    Oaks, Zachary; Winans, Thomas; Huang, Nick; Banki, Katalin; Perl, Andras

    2016-12-01

    The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a central regulator in cell growth, activation, proliferation, and survival. Activation of the mTOR pathway underlies the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). While mTOR activation and its therapeutic reversal were originally discovered in T cells, recent investigations have also uncovered roles in other cell subsets including B cells, macrophages, and "non-immune" organs such as the liver and the kidney. Activation of mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) precedes the onset of SLE and associated co-morbidities, such as anti-phospholipid syndrome (APS), and may act as an early marker of disease pathogenesis. Six case reports have now been published that document the development of SLE in patients with genetic activation of mTORC1. Targeting mTORC1 over-activation with N-acetylcysteine, rapamycin, and rapalogs provides an opportunity to supplant current therapies with severe side effect profiles such as prednisone or cyclophosphamide. In the present review, we will discuss the recent explosion of findings in support for a central role for mTOR activation in SLE.

  5. Explosive-residue compounds resulting from snow avalanche control in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Naftz, David L.; Kanagy, Leslie K.; Susong, David D.; Wydoski, Duane S.; Kanagy, Christopher J.

    2003-01-01

    A snow avalanche is a powerful force of nature that can play a significant role in developing mountain landscapes (Perla and Martinelli, 1975). More importantly, loss of life can occur when people are caught in the path of snow avalanches (Grossman, 1999). Increasing winter recreation, including skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and climbing in mountainous areas, has increased the likelihood of people encountering snow avalanches (fig. 1). Explosives are used by most ski areas and State highway departments throughout the Western United States to control the release of snow avalanches, thus minimizing the loss of human life during winter recreation and highway travel (fig. 2).Common explosives used for snow avalanche control include trinitrotoluene (TNT), pentaerythritoltetranitrate (PETN), cyclotrimethylenetrinitramine (RDX), tetrytol, ammonium nitrate, and nitroglycerin (Perla and Martinelli, 1975). During and after snowfall or wind loading of potential avalanche slopes, ski patrollers and Utah Department of Transportation personnel deliver explosive charges onto predetermined targets to artificially release snow avalanches, thereby rendering the slope safer for winter activities. Explosives can be thrown by hand onto target zones or shot from cannons for more remote delivery of explosive charges. Hand-delivered charges typically contain about 2 pounds of TNT or its equivalent (Perla and Martinelli, 1975).Depending on the size of the ski area, acreage of potential avalanche terrain, and weather conditions, the annual quantity of explosives used during a season of snow avalanche control can be substantial. For example, the three ski areas of Alta, Snowbird, and Brighton, plus the Utah Department of Transportation, may use as many as 11,200 hand charges per year (Wasatch Powderbird Guides, unpub. data, 1999) for snow avalanche control in Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons (fig. 3). If each charge is assumed to weigh 2 pounds, this equates to about 22,400 pounds of explosive hand charges per year. In addition, 2,240 to 3,160 Avalauncher rounds and 626 to 958 military artillery rounds (explosive mass not specified) are used each year by the three ski areas and the Utah Department of Transportation for snow avalanche control in Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons (Wasatch Powderbird Guides, unpub. data, 1999). The other ski area in Big Cottonwood Canyon, Brighton, uses about 2,000 pounds of explosives per year for snow avalanche control (Michele Weidner, Cirrus Ecological Solutions consultant, written commun., 2001).

  6. Substance P contributes to rapidly adapting receptor responses to pulmonary venous congestion in rabbits.

    PubMed

    Bonham, A C; Kott, K S; Ravi, K; Kappagoda, C T; Joad, J P

    1996-05-15

    1. This study tested the hypothesis that substance P stimulates rapidly adapting receptors (RARs), contributes to the increase in RAR activity produced by mild pulmonary congestion, and evokes an augmented response from RARs when combined with near-threshold levels of pulmonary congestion. 2. RAR activity, peak tracheal pressure, arterial blood pressure and left atrial pressure were measured in paralysed, anaesthetized and ventilated rabbits. Substance P was given i.v. in one-half log incremental doses to a maximum of 3 micrograms kg-1. Mild pulmonary congestion was produced by inflating a balloon in the left atrium to increase left atrial pressure by 5 mmHg. Near-threshold levels of pulmonary congestion were produced by increasing left atrial pressure by 2 mmHg. 3. Substance P produced dose-dependent increases in RAR activity. The highest dose given increased the activity from 1.3 +/- 0.5 to 11.0 +/- 3.1 impulses bin-1. Increases in left atrial pressure of 5 mmHg increased RAR activity from 3.8 +/- 1.4 to 14.7 +/- 3.9 impulses bin-1. Blockade of NK1 receptors with CP 96345 significantly attenuated RAR responses to substance P and to mild pulmonary congestion. 4. Doses of substance P, which alone had no effect, stimulated the RARs when delivered during near-threshold levels of pulmonary congestion. 5. The findings suggest that substance P augments the stimulatory effect of mild pulmonary congestion on RAR activity, most probably by enhancing hydraulically induced microvascular leak.

  7. Measurement of Functional Cognition and Complex Everyday Activities in Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment and Mild Dementia: Validity of the Large Allen's Cognitive Level Screen.

    PubMed

    Wesson, Jacqueline; Clemson, Lindy; Crawford, John D; Kochan, Nicole A; Brodaty, Henry; Reppermund, Simone

    2017-05-01

    To explore the validity of the Large Allen's Cognitive Level Screen-5 (LACLS-5) as a performance-based measure of functional cognition, representing an ability to perform complex everyday activities in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and mild dementia living in the community. Using cross-sectional data from the Sydney Memory and Ageing Study, 160 community-dwelling older adults with normal cognition (CN; N = 87), MCI (N = 43), or dementia (N = 30) were studied. Functional cognition (LACLS-5), complex everyday activities (Disability Assessment for Dementia [DAD]), Assessment of Motor and Process Skills [AMPS]), and neuropsychological measures were used. Participants with dementia performed worse than CN on all clinical measures, and MCI participants were intermediate. Correlational analyses showed that LACLS-5 was most strongly related to AMPS Process scores, DAD instrumental activities of daily living subscale, Mini-Mental State Exam, Block Design, Logical Memory, and Trail Making Test B. Multiple regression analysis indicated that both cognitive (Block Design) and functional measures (AMPS Process score) and sex predicted LACLS-5 performance. Finally, LACLS-5 was able to adequately discriminate between CN and dementia and between MCI and dementia but was unable to reliably distinguish between CN and MCI. Construct validity, including convergent and discriminative validity, was supported. LACLS-5 is a valid performance-based measure for evaluating functional cognition. Discriminativevalidity is acceptable for identifying mild dementia but requires further refinement for detecting MCI. Copyright © 2017 American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  8. Heat-directed tumor cell fusion.

    PubMed

    Brade, Anthony M; Szmitko, Paul; Ngo, Duc; Liu, Fei-Fei; Klamut, Henry J

    2003-03-20

    In previous studies we demonstrated that a modified human HSP70b promoter (HSE.70b) directs high levels of gene expression to tumor cells after mild hyperthermia treatment in the range of 41.5-44 degrees C. This transcriptional targeting system exhibits low basal activity at 37 degrees C, is highly induced (950-fold) after mild heat treatment (43 degrees C/30 min), and returns to basal activity levels within 12-24 hours of activation. Here we describe heat-directed targeting of an activated form of the Gibbon ape leukemia virus env protein (GALV FMG) to tumor cells. GALV FMG mediates cell-cell fusion, and when expressed in tumor cells can produce bystander effects of up to 1:200. Transient transfection of a HSE70b.GALV FMG minigene caused extensive syncytia formation in HeLa and HT-1080 cells following mild heat treatment (44 degrees C/30 min). Stable transfection into HT-1080 cells produced a cell line (HG5) that exhibits massive syncytia formation and a 60% reduction in viability relative to a vector-only control (CI1) following heat treatment in vitro. Mild hyperthermia also resulted in syncytia formation, necrosis, and complete macroscopic regression of HG5 xenograft tumors grown in the footpads of mice with severe combined immunodeficiency disorders (SCID). Median survival increased from 12.5 (in heated CI1 controls) to 52 days after a single heat treatment. Heat-directed tumor cell fusion may prove to be a highly beneficial adjunct to existing cancer treatment strategies that take advantage of the synergistic interaction between mild hyperthermia and radiation or chemotherapeutic drugs.

  9. UAVSAR Acquires False-Color Image of Galeras Volcano, Colombia

    NASA Image and Video Library

    2013-04-03

    This false-color image of Colombia Galeras Volcano, was acquired by UAVSAR on March 13, 2013. A highly active volcano, Galeras features a breached caldera and an active cone that produces numerous small to moderate explosive eruptions.

  10. Self-healing volcanoes: mechanical response of magma failure, sealing and healing on outgassing

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lamur, A.; Lavallée, Y.; Kendrick, J. E.; Wadsworth, F. B.; Vasseur, J.

    2016-12-01

    Cyclic patterns of eruptive activity and quiescent periods are commonly observed at silicic volcanoes (e.g. Santiaguito, Guatemala). Quiescence, characterised by outgassing and no magmatic emissions, can last from several minutes to several years. Eruptive activity is, by comparison, expressed as the extrusion of lava/ pyroclasts, lasting minutes to years, and the onset can be extremely sudden, especially during explosive eruptions. Previous studies have shown that the overpressure leading to explosive activity can be achieved through gas accumulation following the processes of pore collapse or fracture infill and healing, which act to obliterate permeable outgassing; subsequently, magma may fragment and erupt explosively once the pressure exceeds the tensile strength. Here, we build on these studies by systematically testing the effects of fracture opening and (mechanical) sealing as well as (physico-chemical) healing. The experimental data is used to model the kinetics of fracture healing and tensile strength recovery as well as to constrain the permeability of fractured media as a function of pressure in the system. We discuss how these fracture and healing processes may operate in the timescale of pressure build-up and outgassing observed at volcanoes, without a need to invoke the input of a new magma recharge in the upper conduit.

  11. Radio emission from supernovae and gamma-ray bursters and the need for the SKA

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Weiler, Kurt W.; Van Dyk, Schuyler D.; Sramek, Richard A.; Panagia, Nino

    2004-12-01

    Study of radio supernovae (SNe) over the past 25 years includes two dozen detected objects and more than 100 upper limits. From this work it is possible to identify classes of radio properties, demonstrate conformance to and deviations from existing models, estimate the density and structure of the circumstellar material and, by inference, the evolution of the presupernova stellar wind, and reveal the last stages of stellar evolution before explosion. It is also possible to detect ionized hydrogen along the line of sight, to demonstrate binary properties of the stellar system, and to show clumpiness of the circumstellar material. Since 1997 the afterglow of γ-ray bursting sources (GRBs) has occasionally been detected in the radio, as well in other wavelength bands. In particular, the interesting and unusual γ-ray burst GRB 980425, almost certainly related to the radio supernova SN 1998bw, and the more recent SN 2003dh/GRB 030329 are links between the two classes of objects. Analyzing the extensive radio emission data available for SN 1998bw, one can describe its time evolution within the well established framework available for the analysis of radio emission from supernovae. This then allows relatively detailed description of a number of physical properties of the object. The radio emission can best be explained as the interaction of a mildly relativistic ( Γ ˜ 1.6) shock with a dense pre-explosion stellar wind-established circumstellar medium that is highly structured both azimuthally, in clumps or filaments, and radially, with observed density enhancements. From this we can support the conclusion that at least some members of the slow-soft class of GRBs are related to type Ib/c SNe and can be attributed to the explosion of a massive star in a dense, highly structured CSM that was presumably established by the pre-explosion stellar system. However, due to the lack of sensitivity of current radio telescopes, most supernovae cannot be studied if they are more distant than the Virgo Cluster (˜20 Mpc) or, for exceptionally luminous Type IIn supernovae, beyond ˜100 Mpc. While the GRBs are up to 4 orders-of-magnitude more radio luminous, they are also generally much more distant because of their small probability of detection in smaller volumes of space and most are at z ˜ 1. Those which are radio detected rarely exceed peak flux densities of ˜100 - 300 μJy. Such low flux densities mean that detailed study of their radio "light curves" and, derived from those light curves, the energetics and dynamics of the explosions and the properties of their progenitors and the circumburst medium is very difficult and severely limited in scope. The increased capability of the SKA to attack these problems will significantly advance the field.

  12. Zika fever and congenital Zika syndrome: An unexpected emerging arboviral disease.

    PubMed

    Chan, Jasper F W; Choi, Garnet K Y; Yip, Cyril C Y; Cheng, Vincent C C; Yuen, Kwok-Yung

    2016-05-01

    Unlike its mosquito-borne relatives, such as dengue, West Nile, and Japanese encephalitis viruses, which can cause severe human diseases, Zika virus (ZIKV) has emerged from obscurity by its association with a suspected "congenital Zika syndrome", while causing asymptomatic or mild exanthematous febrile infections which are dengue- or rubella-like in infected individuals. Despite having been discovered in Uganda for almost 60 years, <20 human cases were reported before 2007. The massive epidemics in the Pacific islands associated with the ZIKV Asian lineage in 2007 and 2013 were followed by explosive outbreaks in Latin America in 2015. Although increased mosquito breeding associated with the El Niño effect superimposed on global warming is suspected, genetic changes in its RNA virus genome may have led to better adaptation to mosquitoes, other animal reservoirs, and human. We reviewed the epidemiology, clinical manifestation, virology, pathogenesis, laboratory diagnosis, management, and prevention of this emerging infection. Laboratory diagnosis can be confounded by cross-reactivity with other circulating flaviviruses. Besides mosquito bite and transplacental transmission, the risk of other potential routes of transmission by transfusion, transplantation, sexual activity, breastfeeding, respiratory droplet, and animal bite is discussed. Epidemic control requires adequate clearance of mosquito breeding grounds, personal protection against mosquito bite, and hopefully a safe and effective vaccine. Copyright © 2016 The British Infection Association. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  13. Decreased activation along the dorsal visual pathway after a 3-month treatment with galantamine in mild Alzheimer disease: a functional magnetic resonance imaging study.

    PubMed

    Bokde, Arun L W; Karmann, Michaela; Teipel, Stefan J; Born, Christine; Lieb, Martin; Reiser, Maximilian F; Möller, Hans-Jürgen; Hampel, Harald

    2009-04-01

    Visual perception has been shown to be altered in Alzheimer disease (AD) patients, and it is associated with decreased cognitive function. Galantamine is an active cholinergic agent, which has been shown to lead to improved cognition in mild to moderate AD patients. This study examined brain activation in a group of mild AD patients after a 3-month open-label treatment with galantamine. The objective was to examine the changes in brain activation due to treatment. There were 2 tasks to visual perception. The first task was a face-matching task to test the activation along the ventral visual pathway, and the second task was a location-matching task to test neuronal function along the dorsal pathway. Brain activation was measured using functional magnetic resonance imaging. There were 5 mild AD patients in the study. There were no differences in the task performance and in the cognitive scores of the Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer's Disease battery before and after treatment. In the location-matching task, we found a statistically significant decrease in activation along the dorsal visual pathway after galantamine treatment. A previous study found that AD patients had higher activation in the location-matching task compared with healthy controls. There were no differences in activation for the face-matching task after treatment. Our data indicate that treatment with galantamine leads to more efficient visual processing of stimuli or changes the compensatory mechanism in the AD patients. A visual perception task recruiting the dorsal visual system may be useful as a biomarker of treatment effects.

  14. Use of the short-term inflammatory response in the mouse peritoneal cavity to assess the biological activity of leached vitreous fibers.

    PubMed Central

    Donaldson, K; Addison, J; Miller, B G; Cullen, R T; Davis, J M

    1994-01-01

    We used a special-purpose glass microfiber sample, Johns-Manville Code 100/475, to study the effects of various acid and alkali treatments on biological activity as assessed by inflammation in the mouse peritoneal cavity, the leaching of Si, and the phase contrast optical microscopy (PCOM) fiber number. We used mild and medium treatments with oxalic acid and Tris buffer and harsh treatment with concentrated HCl and NaOH. Mild oxalic acid and Tris treatment for 2 weeks had no effect on any of the end-points, but prolonging the mild oxalic acid treatment time to 2 months reduced the biological activity and the fiber number. Medium oxalic acid treatment reduced the biological activity and the fiber number and caused a loss of Si. Medium Tris alkali treatment reduced the PCOM-countable fibers and the biological activity but did not cause a substantial loss of Si. Harsh treatment with strong HCl did not affect the fiber number or cause leaching but the biological activity was reduced; strong NaOH reduced the fiber number and biological activity, and caused marked leaching of Si. The medium oxalic acid conditions (pH 1.4) were more acid than those found in lung cells but produced the same effects (reduction in fiber number and biological activity) as the more physiological mild treatment (pH 4.0), when prolonged. This study suggests that medium oxalic acid treatment can be used as a short-term assay to compare loss of Si, reduction in fiber number, and change in biological activity of vitreous fibers.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID:7882922

  15. Mechanical constraints on the triggering of vulcanian explosions at Santiaguito volcano, Guatemala

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hornby, Adrian; Lavallée, Yan; Collinson, Amy; Neuberg, Jurgen; De Angelis, Silvio; Kendrick, Jackie; Lamur, Anthony

    2016-04-01

    Gas- and ash explosions at Santiaguito volcano occur at regular 20-200 minute intervals, exiting through arcuate fractures in the summit dome of the Caliente vent. Infrasound, ground deformation and seismic monitoring collected during a long term monitoring survey conducted by the University of Liverpool have constrained a stable, repeatable source for these explosions. The explosions maintain similar magnitudes and (low) erupted mass throughout examined period. Ground deformation reveals stable ~25 minute inflation-deflation cycles, which culminate in either explosions or passive outgassing. Inversion of infrasound sources has revealed that faster inflation rates during the final minutes before peak inflation lead to explosions. These explosions fragment a consistently small-volume pressurized, gas-rich domain within magma located below a denser, lower permeability magma plug. Rapid decompression of this gas-rich domain occurs through fracturing and faulting, creating a highly permeable connection with atmospheric pressures near to the dome surface. We surmise that the dominant fracture mode at these shallow depths is tensile due to the volumetric strain exerted by a pressurising source below the magma plug, however a component of shear is also detected during explosive events. Fractures may either propagate downwards from the dome surface (due to greater magma stiffness and lower confining pressure) or upwards from the gas-rich domain (due to higher strain rates at the deformation source in the case of viscous deformation). In order to constrain the origin and evolution of these fractures we have conducted Brazilian tensile stress tests on lavas from the Caliente vent at strain rates from 10-3-10-5, porosities 3-30% and temperatures 20-800 °C. Across the expected conduit temperature range (750-800 °C) the dome material becomes highly sensitive to strain rate, showing a range of response from elastic failure to viscous flow. The total strain accommodated prior to failure shows a non-linear increase as viscous deformation becomes more important (i.e. temperature is increased or strain rate decreased). This allows us to constrain timescales for fracture propagation for given temperature-strain rate scenarios. We use these results, together with monitoring data and the results of numerical modelling to compare the probability of fractures propagating from the top-down or bottom-up prior to explosions at Santiaguito. Thus, we shed light on the triggers and signals leading to vulcanian explosions, which may be widely applicable to vulcanian explosions at active volcanoes.

  16. Observation of Passive and Explosive Emissions at Stromboli with a Ground-based Hyperspectral TIR Camera

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Smekens, J. F.; Mathieu, G.

    2015-12-01

    Scientific imaging techniques have progressed at a fast pace in the recent years, thanks in part to great improvements in detector technology, and through our ability to process large amounts of complex data using sophisticated software. Broadband thermal cameras are ubiquitously used for permanent monitoring of volcanic activity, and have been used in a multitude of scientific applications, from tracking ballistics to studying the thermal evolution lava flow fields and volcanic plumes. In parallel, UV cameras are now used at several volcano observatories to quantify daytime sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions at very high frequency. In this work we present the results the first deployment of a ground-based Thermal Infrared (TIR) Hyperspectral Imaging System (Telops Hyper-Cam LW) for the study of passive and explosive volcanic activity at Stromboli volcano, Italy. The instrument uses a Michelson spectrometer and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometry to produce hyperspectral datacubes of a scene (320x256 pixels) in the range 7.7-11.8 μm, with a spectral resolution of up to 0.25 cm-1 and at frequencies of ~10 Hz. The activity at Stromboli is characterized by explosions of small magnitude, often containing significant amounts of gas and ash, separated by periods of quiescent degassing of 10-60 minutes. With our dataset, spanning about 5 days of monitoring, we are able to detect and track temporal variations of SO2 and ash emissions during both daytime and nighttime. It ultimately allows for the quantification of the mass of gas and ash ejected during and between explosive events. Although the high price and power consumption of the instrument are obstacles to its deployment as a monitoring tool, this type of data sets offers unprecedented insight into the dynamic processes taking place at Stromboli, and could lead to a better understanding of the eruptive mechanisms at persistently active systems in general.

  17. Stabilization of soils contaminated with explosives and metals from the ammunition demolition activity area and miscellaneous sites at the Umatilla Depot

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

    Lear, P.R.; Gemarr, D.

    1997-12-31

    The US Army Umatilla Depot (UMD) was established as an ordnance depot in 1941 to store, preserve, and perform minor maintenance on conventional and chemical munitions. From the 1940`s until the present, UMD operated periodically at the 32 miscellaneous sites identified as OU-5. OU-4 consists of twenty sites within the Ammunition Demolition Activity Area. Typical activities conducted at these sites consisted of operations to burn, detonate, and otherwise dispose of ordnance, munitions casings, and other solids wastes. Five sites were selected for remedial action. The remediation contaminants of concern for the sites encompassed both metallic and non-metallic elements and bothmore » inorganic and organic compounds. The remedial action selected for the contaminated soil at these sites was stabilization/solidification (S/S). The site remediation activities for the five sites were performed by OHM Remediation Services Corp. (OHM) under the supervision of the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Seattle District. The remedial action included treatability mix design testing, mobilization and field setup, soil excavation and processing, and S/S treatment. Stabilized soil samples were collected as grab samples from the pugmill discharge conveyor at a rate of every 75 tons of soil feed, corresponding to an individual production lot. None of the 437 production lots failed to meet the UCS requirement of 50 psi, however, 31 (7%) of the 437 lots failed for either TCLP-leachable metals or explosives. With one exception, all production lots which failed were due to exceedances of the TCLP-leachable explosives requirements. Of these 30 lots, 22 lots were from the OU-5 metals sites and were not expected to contain significant amounts of explosives. The areas in the landfill corresponding to these lots were excavated and the material reprocessed.« less

  18. Tephra architecture, pyroclast texture and magma rheology of mafic, ash-dominated eruptions: the Violent Strombolian phase of the Pleistocene Croscat (NE Spain) eruption.

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cimarelli, C.; Di Traglia, F.; Vona, A.,; Taddeucci, J.

    2012-04-01

    A broad range of low- to mid-intensity explosive activity is dominated by the emission of ash-sized pyroclasts. Among this activity, Violent Strombolian phases characterize the climax of many mafic explosive eruptions. Such phases last months to years, and produce ash-charged plumes several kilometers in height, posing severe threats to inhabited areas. To tackle the dominant processes leading to ash formation during Violent Strombolian eruptions, we investigated the magma rheology and the field and textural features of products from the 11 ka Croscat basaltic complex scoria cone in the Quaternary Garrotxa Volcanic Field (GVF). Field, grain-size, chemical (XRF, FE-SEM and electron microprobe) and textural analyses of the Croscat pyroclastic succession outlined the following eruption evolution: activity at Croscat began with fissural, Hawaiian-type fountaining that rapidly shifted towards Strombolian style from a central vent. Later, a Violent Strombolian explosion included several stages, with different emitted volumes and deposit features indicative of differences within the same eruptive style: at first, quasi-sustained fire-fountaining with ash jet and plume produced a massive, reverse to normal graded, scoria deposit; later, a long lasting series of ash-explosions produced a laminated scoria deposit. The eruption ended with a lava flow breaching the western-side of the volcano. Scoria clasts from the Croscat succession ubiquitously show micrometer- to centimeter-sized, microlite-rich domains (MRD) intermingled with volumetrically dominant, microlite-poor domains (MPD). MRD magmas resided longer in a relatively cooler, degassed zone lining the conduit walls, while MPD ones travelled faster along the central, hotter streamline, the two interminging along the interface between the two velocity zones. The preservation of two distinct domains in the short time-scale of the eruption was favoured by their rheological contrast related to the different microlite abundances. The proportion of MPD and MRD, in agreement with bubble-number density (BND), in different tephra layers reflects the extent of the fast- and slow-flowing zones, thus reflecting the ascent velocity profile of magma during the different phases. Recent works (Kueppers et al. 2006, "Explosive energy" during volcanic eruptions from fractal analysis of pyroclasts) indicate that fractal fragmentation theory may allow for quantifying fragmentation processes during explosive volcanic eruptions by calculating the fractal dimension (D) of the size distribution of pyroclasts. At Croscat, BND and MPD/MRD volume ratio decreased during the violent Strombolian activity while D increased, suggesting that the decrease in the magma flow rate was accompanied by the increase in fragmentation efficiency, i.e. by the increase in the ash production capability. This trend may be tentatively attributed to an increased rheological stiffness of the magma progressively enhancing its brittle, more efficient fragmentation.

  19. Comparison of Low Resolution Electromagnetic Tomography Imaging Between Subjects With Mild and Severe Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome: A Preliminary Study

    PubMed Central

    Lee, Hyun-Kwon; Shin, Hyun-Sil; Hong, Seok-Chan

    2008-01-01

    Objective The purpose of this study was to identify the regions of the brain associated with recurrent nocturnal chronic hypoxic episodes in patients with untreated obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) using low-resolution electromagnetic tomography (LORETA) and quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG). Methods Nocturnal polysomnograph (NPSG) and subsequent morning electroencephalograph (EEG) were measured in 20 subjects with OSAS. Mild (n=10 ages 39.5±12.1 years) and severe (n=10 ages 41.7±13.6 years) right-handed male OSAS subjects were selected by interview and questionnaires including the NPSG, Beck Depression Inventory, Beck Anxiety Inventory, Epworth Sleepiness Scale, and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. The LORETA and QEEG were compared between the severe and mild OSAS groups by frequency bands (delta 1-3 Hz, theta 4-7 Hz, alpha 8-12 Hz, beta1 13-18 Hz, beta2 19-21 Hz, beta3 22-30 Hz, and total 1-30 Hz) made by spectral analysis during resting with the eyes closed. Results The LORETA analysis showed decreased alpha activity at the right posterior cingulate gyrus (Brodmann area 23) in cases with severe OSAS compared to mild OSAS (p<0.05). For the QEEG, the absolute power of the alpha activity (8-12 Hz) was decreased in P3 (p=0.047), PZ (p=0.039) and O2 (p=0.04) in cases with severe OSAS compared to mild OSAS cases. The LORETA and QEEG analyses had similar results with regard to band, activation and location. Conclusion The decreased activity of the alpha frequency in the right posterior cingulate gyrus, in patients with severe OSAS compared to those with mild OSAS, suggests that chronic repeated short-term hypoxia during sleep, in OSAS, could provoke cortical brain dysfunction associated with cognitive dysfunction such as memory and attention. PMID:20046408

  20. 76 FR 3092 - Taking and Importing Marine Mammals: Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to Navy's Mission...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-01-19

    ... involve underwater explosive detonation, projectile firing, and sonar testing. Summary of Activity Under..., most of the mid-frequency active sonar (MFAS) and high-frequency active sonar (HFAS) testing events... (Number Authorized vs. Conducted). Number Number Sonar system authorized conducted (hrs) (hrs) AN/SQS-53...

  1. Don't Forget Kīlauea: Explosive Hazards at an Ocean Island Basaltic Volcano

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Swanson, D. A.; Houghton, B. F.

    2015-12-01

    Kīlauea alternates between periods of high and low magma supply rate, each period lasting centuries. The low rate is only a few percent of the high rate. High supply rate, typified by the past 200 years, leads to frequent lava flows, elevated SO2 emission, and relatively low-hazard Hawaiian-style explosive activity (lava fountains, spattering). Periods of low magma supply are very different. They accompany formation and maintenance of a deep caldera, the floor of which is at or below the water table, and are characterized by phreatomagmatic and phreatic explosive eruptions largely powered by external water. The low magma supply rate results in few lava flows and reduced SO2 output. Studies of explosive deposits from the past two periods of low magma supply (~200 BCE-1000 CE and ~1500-1800 CE) indicate that VEIs calculated from isopach maps can range up to a low 3. Clast-size studies suggest that subplinian column heights can reach >10 km (most recently in 1790), though more frequent column heights are ~5-8 km. Pyroclastic density currents (PDCs) present severe proximal hazards; a PDC in 1790 killed a few hundred people in an area of Hawaíi Volcanoes National Park today visited by 5000 people daily. Ash in columns less than about 5 km a.s.l. is confined to the trade-wind regime and advects southwest. Ash in higher columns enters the jet stream and is transported east and southeast of the summit caldera. Recurrence of such column heights today would present aviation hazards, which, for an isolated state dependent on air transport, could have especially deleterious economic impact. There is currently no way to estimate when a period of low magma supply, a deep caldera, and powerful explosive activity will return. Hazard assessments must take into account the cyclic nature of Kīlauea's eruptive activity, not just its present status; consequently, assessments for periods of high and low magma supply rates should be made in parallel to cover all eventualities.

  2. MICROWAVE-ASSISTED PREPARATION OF 1-BUTYL-3-METHYLIMIDAZOLIUM TETRACHLOROGALLATE AND ITS CATALYTIC USE IN ACETAL FORMATION UNDER MILD CONDITIONS

    EPA Science Inventory

    1-Butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrachlorogallate, [bmim][GaCl4], prepared via microwave-assisted protocol, is found to be an active catalyst for the efficient acetalization of aldehydes under mild conditions.

  3. Global solutions to random 3D vorticity equations for small initial data

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Barbu, Viorel; Röckner, Michael

    2017-11-01

    One proves the existence and uniqueness in (Lp (R3)) 3, 3/2 < p < 2, of a global mild solution to random vorticity equations associated to stochastic 3D Navier-Stokes equations with linear multiplicative Gaussian noise of convolution type, for sufficiently small initial vorticity. This resembles some earlier deterministic results of T. Kato [16] and are obtained by treating the equation in vorticity form and reducing the latter to a random nonlinear parabolic equation. The solution has maximal regularity in the spatial variables and is weakly continuous in (L3 ∩L 3p/4p - 6)3 with respect to the time variable. Furthermore, we obtain the pathwise continuous dependence of solutions with respect to the initial data. In particular, one gets a locally unique solution of 3D stochastic Navier-Stokes equation in vorticity form up to some explosion stopping time τ adapted to the Brownian motion.

  4. Volatile metal deposits on lunar soils: Relation to volcanism

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Reed, G. W., Jr.; Allen, R. O., Jr.; Jovanovic, S.

    1977-01-01

    Parallel leaching and volatilization experiments conducted on lunar samples and similar experiments on sphalerite do not supply the information needed to resolve the question of the chemical nature of pb 204, Zn, Bi and Tl deposits on lunar soil surfaces. It is proposed that in Apollo 17 mare and terra soils and fractions of pb 204, Zn and Tl that are insoluble under mild, hot pH 5HNO3, leaching conditions and involatile at 600 C were originally surface deposits which became immobilized by migration into the silicate substrate or by chemisorption. Only Bi is predominantly indigenous. The implication is also that the soils over their respective times of evolution were exposed to heavy metal vapors or that an episodic exposure occurred after they had evolved. A sequence of events is proposed to account for orange 74220 and black 74001 glasses by lava fountaining and for soil 74241 as tephra from an explosive volcanic eruption.

  5. The German/Russian MIR 1997 Mission: An Overview

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1997-01-01

    Session TP4 includes short reports concerning: (1) Life Science Experiments During the German-Russian Mir '97 Mission; (2) Orthostatic Intolerance Following Microgravity: A Role for Autonomic Dysfunction; (3) Heart Rate Variability and Skin Blood Flow in Man During Orthostatic Stress in Weightlessness; (4) Effects of Microgravity and Lower Body Negative Pressure on Circulatory Drives from Excercising Calf Muscles; (5) The Mir Station in Its Second Decade: Crew Science Operation During Mir '97; (6) Metabolic WARD (Water, Sodium, Calcium, and Bone Metabolism) and Endocrinological Experiments During the Mir '97 Mission; (7) Long-term Monitoring of the Spine-geometry During the Mir '97 Mission: Introduction of a New Method; and (8) Effects of 20 days of Microgravity (German/Russian Mir '97 Mission) on the Mechanical and Electromyographic Characteristics of Explosive Efforts of the Lower Limbs and of Cycloergometric Exercises of Mild to Sprint-Like Intensity.

  6. Numerical modeling and characterization of blast waves for application in blast-induced mild traumatic brain injury research

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Phillips, Michael G.

    Human exposure to blast waves, including blast-induced traumatic brain injury, is a developing field in medical research. Experiments with explosives have many disadvantages including safety, cost, and required area for trials. Shock tubes provide an alternative method to produce free field blast wave profiles. A compressed nitrogen shock tube experiment instrumented with static and reflective pressure taps is modeled using a numerical simulation. The geometry of the numerical model is simplified and blast wave characteristics are derived based upon static and pressure profiles. The pressure profiles are analyzed along the shock tube centerline and radially away from the tube axis. The blast wave parameters found from the pressure profiles provide guidelines for spatial location of a specimen. The location could be based on multiple parameters and provides a distribution of anticipated pressure profiles experience by the specimen.

  7. Developing Regional Tephrostratigraphic Frameworks: Applications and Challenges.

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fontijn, K.; Pyle, D. M.; Smith, V.; Mather, T. A.

    2017-12-01

    Detailed stratigraphic studies of pyroclastic deposits form arguably the best tool to estimate the frequency and magnitude of explosive eruptions at volcanoes where limited or no historical records exist. As such tephrostratigraphy forms a first-order assessment of potential future eruptive behavior at poorly known volcanoes. Alternations of soils and pyroclastic deposits at proximal to medial distances of the volcano however typically only allow reconstructing eruptive behavior within the Holocene. Moreover, they only tend to preserve relatively large explosive eruptions, of magnitude 3-4 and above, and therefore almost invariably form a biased view of the frequency-magnitude relationships at a particular volcano. Long lacustrine records in medial to distal regions offer significant potential to obtain a more complete view of the explosive eruptive record as they often preserve thin fine-grained tephra deposits representing either small-scale explosive eruptions not preserved on land, or distal ash deposits from large explosive eruptions. Furthermore, these sedimentary records often contain material that can be dated to establish a detailed age-depth model that can be used to date the eruptions and estimate the tempo of activity. In settings where volcanoes and lakes closely co-exist, integrating terrestrial and lacustrine data therefore allows the development of regional-scale tephrostratigraphic frameworks. Such frameworks provide a view of temporal trends in volcanic activity and mid/long-term eruptive rates on a regional scale rather than at the level of an individual volcano, i.e. in interaction with regional tectonic stress regimes. They also highlight the spatial distribution of deposits from large explosive eruptions, allowing improved estimates of magnitudes of individual eruptions as well as of frequency of impact by volcanic ash in specific regions. Provided such tephra horizons are well characterized and dated they can be used as age marker horizons and help fine-tune age models for palaeoenvironmental studies. In this presentation we will highlight a few key examples of both local and regional-scale tephrostratigraphic frameworks in East Africa, Chile and South-East Asia, and discuss the multidisciplinary applications as well as challenges posed by data acquisition.

  8. Nonexplosive and explosive magma/wet-sediment interaction during emplacement of Eocene intrusions into Cretaceous to Eocene strata, Trans-Pecos igneous province, West Texas

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Befus, K.S.; Hanson, R.E.; Miggins, D.P.; Breyer, J.A.; Busbey, A.B.

    2009-01-01

    Eocene intrusion of alkaline basaltic to trachyandesitic magmas into unlithified, Upper Cretaceous (Maastrichtian) to Eocene fluvial strata in part of the Trans-Pecos igneous province in West Texas produced an array of features recording both nonexplosive and explosive magma/wet-sediment interaction. Intrusive complexes with 40Ar/39Ar dates of ~ 47-46??Ma consist of coherent basalt, peperite, and disrupted sediment. Two of the complexes cutting Cretaceous strata contain masses of conglomerate derived from Eocene fluvial deposits that, at the onset of intrusive activity, would have been > 400-500??m above the present level of exposure. These intrusive complexes are inferred to be remnants of diatremes that fed maar volcanoes during an early stage of magmatism in this part of the Trans-Pecos province. Disrupted Cretaceous strata along diatreme margins record collapse of conduit walls during and after subsurface phreatomagmatic explosions. Eocene conglomerate slumped downward from higher levels during vent excavation. Coherent to pillowed basaltic intrusions emplaced at the close of explosive activity formed peperite within the conglomerate, within disrupted Cretaceous strata in the conduit walls, and within inferred remnants of the phreatomagmatic slurry that filled the vents during explosive volcanism. A younger series of intrusions with 40Ar/39Ar dates of ~ 42??Ma underwent nonexplosive interaction with Upper Cretaceous to Paleocene mud and sand. Dikes and sills show fluidal, billowed, quenched margins against the host strata, recording development of surface instabilities between magma and groundwater-rich sediment. Accentuation of billowed margins resulted in propagation of intrusive pillows into the adjacent sediment. More intense disruption and mingling of quenched magma with sediment locally produced fluidal and blocky peperite, but sufficient volumes of pore fluid were not heated rapidly enough to generate phreatomagmatic explosions. This work suggests that Trans-Pecos Texas may be an important locale for the study of subvolcanic phreatomagmatic processes and associated phenomena. Eocene intrusions in the study area underwent complex interactions with wet sediment at shallow levels beneath the surface in strata as old as Maastrichtian, which must have remained unlithified and rich in pore water for ~ 20-25??Ma. ?? 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  9. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with mild airflow limitation: current knowledge and proposal for future research – a consensus document from six scientific societies

    PubMed Central

    Rossi, Andrea; Butorac-Petanjek, Bojana; Chilosi, Marco; Cosío, Borja G; Flezar, Matjaz; Koulouris, Nikolaos; Marin, José; Miculinic, Neven; Polese, Guido; Samaržija, Miroslav; Skrgat, Sabina; Vassilakopoulos, Theodoros; Vukić-Dugac, Andrea; Zakynthinos, Spyridon; Miravitlles, Marc

    2017-01-01

    Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide, with high and growing prevalence. Its underdiagnosis and hence under-treatment is a general feature across all countries. This is particularly true for the mild or early stages of the disease, when symptoms do not yet interfere with daily living activities and both patients and doctors are likely to underestimate the presence of the disease. A diagnosis of COPD requires spirometry in subjects with a history of exposure to known risk factors and symptoms. Postbronchodilator forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1)/forced vital capacity <0.7 or less than the lower limit of normal confirms the presence of airflow limitation, the severity of which can be measured by FEV1% predicted: stage 1 defines COPD with mild airflow limitation, which means postbronchodilator FEV1 ≥80% predicted. In recent years, an elegant series of studies has shown that “exclusive reliance on spirometry, in patients with mild airflow limitation, may result in underestimation of clinically important physiologic impairment”. In fact, exercise tolerance, diffusing capacity, and gas exchange can be impaired in subjects at a mild stage of airflow limitation. Furthermore, growing evidence indicates that smokers without overt abnormal spirometry have respiratory symptoms and undergo therapy. This is an essential issue in COPD. In fact, on one hand, airflow limitation, even mild, can unduly limit the patient’s physical activity, with deleterious consequences on quality of life and even survival; on the other hand, particularly in younger subjects, mild airflow limitation might coincide with the early stage of the disease. Therefore, we thought that it was worthwhile to analyze further and discuss this stage of “mild COPD”. To this end, representatives of scientific societies from five European countries have met and developed this document to stimulate the attention of the scientific community on COPD with “mild” airflow limitation. The aim of this document is to highlight some key features of this important concept and help the practicing physician to understand better what is behind “mild” COPD. Future research should address two major issues: first, whether mild airflow limitation represents an early stage of COPD and what the mechanisms underlying the evolution to more severe stages of the disease are; and second, not far removed from the first, whether regular treatment should be considered for COPD patients with mild airflow limitation, either to prevent progression of the disease or to encourage and improve physical activity or both. PMID:28919728

  10. Propofol and memory: a study using a process dissociation procedure and functional magnetic resonance imaging.

    PubMed

    Quan, X; Yi, J; Ye, T H; Tian, S Y; Zou, L; Yu, X R; Huang, Y G

    2013-04-01

    Thirty volunteers randomly received either mild or deep propofol sedation, to assess its effect on explicit and implicit memory. Blood oxygen level-dependent functional magnetic resonance during sedation examined brain activation by auditory word stimulus and a process dissociation procedure was performed 4 h after scanning. Explicit memory formation did not occur in either group. Implicit memories were formed during mild but not deep sedation (p = 0.04). Mild propofol sedation inhibited superior temporal gyrus activation (Z value 4.37, voxel 167). Deep propofol sedation inhibited superior temporal gyrus (Z value 4.25, voxel 351), middle temporal gyrus (Z value 4.39, voxel 351) and inferior parietal lobule (Z value 5.06, voxel 239) activation. Propofol only abolishes implicit memory during deep sedation. The superior temporal gyrus is associated with explicit memory processing, while the formation of both implicit and explicit memories is associated with superior and middle temporal gyri and inferior parietal lobule activation. Anaesthesia © 2013 The Association of Anaesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland.

  11. Stochastic Fermi Energization of Coronal Plasma during Explosive Magnetic Energy Release

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pisokas, Theophilos; Vlahos, Loukas; Isliker, Heinz; Tsiolis, Vassilis; Anastasiadis, Anastasios

    2017-02-01

    The aim of this study is to analyze the interaction of charged particles (ions and electrons) with randomly formed particle scatterers (e.g., large-scale local “magnetic fluctuations” or “coherent magnetic irregularities”) using the setup proposed initially by Fermi. These scatterers are formed by the explosive magnetic energy release and propagate with the Alfvén speed along the irregular magnetic fields. They are large-scale local fluctuations (δB/B ≈ 1) randomly distributed inside the unstable magnetic topology and will here be called Alfvénic Scatterers (AS). We constructed a 3D grid on which a small fraction of randomly chosen grid points are acting as AS. In particular, we study how a large number of test particles evolves inside a collection of AS, analyzing the evolution of their energy distribution and their escape-time distribution. We use a well-established method to estimate the transport coefficients directly from the trajectories of the particles. Using the estimated transport coefficients and solving the Fokker-Planck equation numerically, we can recover the energy distribution of the particles. We have shown that the stochastic Fermi energization of mildly relativistic and relativistic plasma can heat and accelerate the tail of the ambient particle distribution as predicted by Parker & Tidman and Ramaty. The temperature of the hot plasma and the tail of the energetic particles depend on the mean free path (λsc) of the particles between the scatterers inside the energization volume.

  12. Unveiling the Secrets of Metallicity and Massive Star Formation Using DLAs Along Gamma-Ray Bursts

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Cucchiara, A.; Fumagalli, M.; Rafelski, M.; Kocevski, D.; Prochaska, J. X.; Cooke, R. J.; Becker, G. D.

    2015-01-01

    We present the largest, publicly available, sample of Damped Lyman-alpha systems (DLAs) along Swift discovered Gamma-ray Bursts (GRB) line of sights in order to investigate the environmental properties of long GRB hosts in the z = 1.8 - 6 redshift range. Compared with the most recent quasar DLAs sample (QSO-DLA), our analysis shows that GRB-DLAs probe a more metal enriched environment at z approximately greater than 3, up to [X/H] approximately -0.5. In the z = 2 - 3 redshift range, despite the large number of lower limits, there are hints that the two populations may be more similar (only at 90% significance level) than at higher redshifts. Also, at high-z, the GRB-DLA average metallicity seems to decline at a shallower rate than the QSO-DLAs: GRB-DLA hosts may be polluted with metals at least as far as approximately 2 kpc from the GRB explosion site, probably due to previous star-formation episodes and/or supernovae explosions. This shallow metallicity trend, extended now up to z approximately 5, confirms previous results that GRB hosts are star-forming and have, on average, higher metallicity than the general QSO-DLA population. Finally, our host metallicity measurements are broadly consistent with the predictions derived from the hypothesis of two channels of GRB progenitors, one of which is mildly affected by a metallicity bias, although more data are needed to constrain the models at z approximately greater than 4.

  13. Burn Injury and Explosions: An Australian Perspective

    PubMed Central

    Greenwood, John E.

    2009-01-01

    Objectives: Increasingly (but not exclusively), terrorist activity and the use of explosive devices have enjoyed the focus of the global media. This paper aims to bring a range of issues to attention, to highlight how burn injuries are sustained in such incidents and why burn injuries (and thus burn disasters) are so complicated to manage. Materials and Methods: The author's experience with burn injury caused during explosions and his involvement in burn disaster situations has been summarized to form the basis of the article. This has been expanded upon with discussion points which provide a strategy for planning for such events and by a broad sample of the literature. Results: Several strategies are suggested to facilitate planning for burn disasters and to illustrate to those not directly involved why forward planning is pivotal to success when these incidents occur. Conclusions: Disasters generating large numbers of burn-injured are relatively frequent. Explosive devices are widespread in their use both in military and increasingly in civilian fields. Encompassing a large range of aetiologies, geographical sites, populations, and resources; burn disaster management is difficult and planning essential. PMID:19834533

  14. A deep towed explosive source for seismic experiments on the ocean floor

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Koelsch, Donald E.; Witzell, Warren E.; Broda, James E.; Wooding, Frank B.; Purdy, G. M.

    1986-12-01

    A new seismic source for carrying out high resolution measurements of deep ocean crustal structure has been constructed and successfully used in a number of ocean bottom refraction experiments on the Mid Atlantic Ridge near 23° N. The source is towed within 100 m of the ocean floor on a conventional 0.68″ coaxial cable and is capable of firing, upon command from the research vessel, up to 48 individual 2.3 kg explosive charges. The explosive used was commercially available Penta-Erythritol-Tetra Nitrate (PETN) that was activated by 14.9 gm m-1 Primacord and DuPont E-97 electrical detonators. For safety reasons each detonator was fitted with a pressure switch that maintained a short until the source was at depth in excess of approximately 300 m. In addition, a mechanical protector isolated the detonator from the main charge and was only removed by the physical release of the explosive from the source package. These and other safety precautions resulted in several misfires but three experiments were successfully completed during the summer of 1985 at source depths of 3000 4000 m.

  15. A portable explosive detector based on fluorescence quenching of pyrene deposited on coloured wax-printed μPADs.

    PubMed

    Taudte, Regina Verena; Beavis, Alison; Wilson-Wilde, Linzi; Roux, Claude; Doble, Philip; Blanes, Lucas

    2013-11-07

    A new technique for the detection of explosives has been developed based on fluorescence quenching of pyrene on paper-based analytical devices (μPADs). Wax barriers were generated (150 °C, 5 min) using ten different colours. Magenta was found as the most suitable wax colour for the generation of the hydrophobic barriers with a nominal width of 120 μm resulting in fully functioning hydrophobic barriers. One microliter of 0.5 mg mL(-1) pyrene dissolved in an 80:20 methanol-water solution was deposited on the hydrophobic circle (5 mm diameter) to produce the active microchip device. Under ultra-violet (UV) illumination, ten different organic explosives were detected using the μPAD, with limits of detection ranging from 100-600 ppm. A prototype of a portable battery operated instrument using a 3 W power UV light-emitting-diode (LED) (365 nm) and a photodiode sensor was also built and evaluated for the successful automatic detection of explosives and potential application for field-based screening.

  16. [Unpredictable chronic mild stress effects on antidepressants activities in forced swim test].

    PubMed

    Kudryashov, N V; Kalinina, T S; Voronina, T A

    2015-02-01

    The experiments has been designed to study unpredictable chronic mild stress effect on anti-depressive activities of amitriptyline (10 mg/kg) and fluoxetine (20 mg/kg) in forced swim test in male outbred mice. It is shown that acute treatment with fluoxetine does not produce any antidepressant effects in mice following stress of 14 days while the sub-chronic injections of fluoxetine result in more deep depressive-like behavior. In 28 daily stressed mice, antidepressant effect of fluoxetine is observed independently of the injection rates. Amitriptyline demonstrates the antidepressant activity regardless of the duration of stress or administration scheduling, but at the same time the severity of anti-immobilization effect of amitriptyline in stressed mice is weaker in compare to non-stressed trails. Thus, the injection rates and duration of unpredictable mild chronic stress are the parameters that determine the efficiency of antidepressants in the mouse forced swimming test.

  17. Long-term changes in explosive and effusive behaviour at andesitic arc volcanoes: Chronostratigraphy of the Centre Hills Volcano, Montserrat

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Coussens, Maya; Cassidy, Michael; Watt, Sebastian F. L.; Jutzeler, Martin; Talling, Peter J.; Barfod, Dan; Gernon, Thomas M.; Taylor, Rex; Hatter, Stuart J.; Palmer, Martin R.; Montserrat Volcano Observatory

    2017-03-01

    Volcanism on Montserrat (Lesser Antilles arc) has migrated southwards since the formation of the Silver Hills 2.5 Ma, and has formed three successively active volcanic centres. The Centre Hills volcano was the focus of volcanism from 1-0.4 Ma, before activity commenced at the currently active Soufrière Hills volcano. The history of activity at these two volcanoes provides an opportunity to investigate the pattern of volcano behaviour on an andesitic arc island over the lifetime of individual volcanoes. Here, we describe the pyroclastic stratigraphy of subaerial exposures around central Montserrat; identifying 11 thick (> 1 m) pumiceous units derived from sustained explosive eruptions of Centre Hills from 0.8-0.4 Ma. Over 10 other, less well- exposed pumiceous units have also been identified. The pumice-rich units are interbedded with andesite lava breccias derived from effusive, dome-forming eruptions of Centre Hills. The stratigraphy indicates that large (up to magnitude 5) explosive eruptions occurred throughout the history of Centre Hills, alongside effusive activity. This behaviour at Centre Hills contrasts with Soufrière Hills, where deposits from sustained explosive eruptions are much less common and restricted to early stages of activity at the volcano, from 175-130 ka. Subsequent eruptions at Soufriere Hills have been dominated by andesitic effusive eruptions. The bulk composition, petrography and mineral chemistry of volcanic rocks from Centre Hills and Soufrière Hills are similar throughout the history of both volcanoes, except for occasional, transient departures to different magma compositions, which mark shifts in vent location or dominant eruption style. For example, the final recorded eruption of Centre Hills, before the initiation of activity at Soufrière Hills, was more silicic than any other identified eruption on Montserrat; and the basaltic South Soufrière Hills episode marked the transition to the current stage of predominantly effusive Soufrière Hills activity. The compositional stability observed throughout the history of Centre Hills and Soufrière Hills suggests that a predominance towards effusive or explosive eruption styles is not driven by major compositional shifts of magma, but may reflect local changes in long-term magma storage conditions that characterise individual episodes (on 105 year timescales) of volcanism on Montserrat. Supplementary Table 2: Complete XRF analyses for all analysed samples Supplementary Table 3: Complete ICP-MS analyses for all analysed samples. Supplementary Table 4: Plagioclase composition and precision data from SEM analysis Supplementary Table 5: Clinopyroxene composition and precision data from SEM analysis Supplementary Table 6: Orthopyroxene composition and precision data from SEM analysis Supplementary Table 7: Amphibole composition and precision data from SEM analysis Supplementary Table 8: Glass compositions from EMP analysis Supplementary Table 9: Standard Deviation of glass compositions from EMP analysis. Supplementary Table 10: Isotopic composition of argon from plagioclase crystals from select units. Data obtained using an ARGUS V multi-collector mass spectrometer.

  18. Mild traumatic brain injury results in depressed cerebral glucose uptake: An (18)FDG PET study.

    PubMed

    Selwyn, Reed; Hockenbury, Nicole; Jaiswal, Shalini; Mathur, Sanjeev; Armstrong, Regina C; Byrnes, Kimberly R

    2013-12-01

    Moderate to severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) in humans and rats induces measurable metabolic changes, including a sustained depression in cerebral glucose uptake. However, the effect of a mild TBI on brain glucose uptake is unclear, particularly in rodent models. This study aimed to determine the glucose uptake pattern in the brain after a mild lateral fluid percussion (LFP) TBI. Briefly, adult male rats were subjected to a mild LFP and positron emission tomography (PET) imaging with (18)F-fluorodeoxyglucose ((18)FDG), which was performed prior to injury and at 3 and 24 h and 5, 9, and 16 days post-injury. Locomotor function was assessed prior to injury and at 1, 3, 7, 14, and 21 days after injury using modified beam walk tasks to confirm injury severity. Histology was performed at either 10 or 21 days post-injury. Analysis of function revealed a transient impairment in locomotor ability, which corresponds to a mild TBI. Using reference region normalization, PET imaging revealed that mild LFP-induced TBI depresses glucose uptake in both the ipsilateral and contralateral hemispheres in comparison with sham-injured and naïve controls from 3 h to 5 days post-injury. Further, areas of depressed glucose uptake were associated with regions of glial activation and axonal damage, but no measurable change in neuronal loss or gross tissue damage was observed. In conclusion, we show that mild TBI, which is characterized by transient impairments in function, axonal damage, and glial activation, results in an observable depression in overall brain glucose uptake using (18)FDG-PET.

  19. The Benefits of Supporting the Autonomy of Individuals with Mild Intellectual Disabilities: An Experimental Study.

    PubMed

    Emond Pelletier, Julie; Joussemet, Mireille

    2017-09-01

    The benefits of autonomy support with the general population have been demonstrated numerous times. However, little research has been conducted to verify if these benefits apply to people with special needs. The goal of the study was to examine whether autonomy support (AS) can foster the sense of autonomy of people with a mild intellectual disabilities (MIDs) and improve their experience while engaging in an important but unpleasant learning activity. This experiment compares the effects of two contexts: with and without AS. All participants (N = 51) had a mild intellectual disability and were recruited from rehabilitation centres. Compared to participants in the control group, participants in the AS group tended to experience greater autonomy satisfaction and tended to perceive more value to the activity. They were also significantly more engaged in it, and they experienced a steeper decrease in anxiety over time. This study suggests that the benefits of AS extend to individuals with mild intellectual disability. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  20. QSAR, DFT and quantum chemical studies on the inhibition potentials of some carbozones for the corrosion of mild steel in HCl.

    PubMed

    Eddy, Nnabuk O; Ita, Benedict I

    2011-02-01

    Experimental aspects of the inhibition of the corrosion of mild steel in HCl solutions by some carbozones were studied using gravimetric, thermometric and gasometric methods, while a theoretical study was carried out using density functional theory, a quantitative structure-activity relation, and quantum chemical principles. The results obtained indicated that the studied carbozones are good adsorption inhibitors for the corrosion of mild steel in HCl. The inhibition efficiencies of the studied carbozones were found to increase with increasing concentration of the respective inhibitor. A strong correlation was found between the average inhibition efficiency and some quantum chemical parameters, and also between the experimental and theoretical inhibition efficiencies (obtained from the quantitative structure-activity relation).

  1. A polytriazole synthesized by 1,3-dipolar polycycloaddition showing aggregation-enhanced emission and utility in explosive detection.

    PubMed

    Wang, Qiang; Chen, Ming; Yao, Bicheng; Wang, Jian; Mei, Ju; Sun, Jing Zhi; Qin, Anjun; Tang, Ben Zhong

    2013-05-14

    The metal-free click polymerizations (MFCPs) of activated alkynes and azides have become a powerful technique for the preparation of functional polytriazoles. Recently, a new MFCP of activated azide and alkyne has been established, but no functional polytriazole is prepared. In this paper, polytriazole PIa with aggregation-enhanced emission (AEE) characteristics is prepared by this efficient polymerization in excellent yield (97.9%). PIa is thermally stable, with 5% loss of its weight at temperature as high as 440 °C. Thanks to its unique AEE feature of PIa, its nanoaggregates can be used to detect explosives with a superamplification quenching effect. Copyright © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  2. The Formation of Fe/Mg Smectite Under Mildly Acidic Conditions on Early Mars

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Sutter, Brad; Golden, D. C.; Ming, Douglas W.; Niles, P. B.

    2011-01-01

    The detection of Fe/Mg smectites and carbonate in Noachian and early Hesperian terrain of Mars has been used to suggest that neutral to mildly alkaline conditions prevailed during the early history of Mars. However, if early Mars was neutral to moderately alkaline with a denser CO2 atmosphere than today, then large carbonates deposits should be more widely detected in Noachian terrain. The critical question is: Why have so few carbonate deposits been detected compared to Fe/Mg smectites? We suggest that Fe/Mg smectites on early Mars formed under mildly acidic conditions, which would inhibit the extensive formation of carbonate deposits. The goal of this work is to evaluate the formation of Fe/Mg smectites under mildly acidic conditions. The stability of smectites under mildly acidic conditions is attributed to elevated Fe/Mg activities that inhibit smectite dissolution. Beidelite and saponite have been shown to form from hydrothermal alteration of basaltic glass at pH 3.5-4.0 in seawater solutions. Nontronite is also known to be stable in mildly acidic systems associated with mafic and ultramafic rock. Nontronite was shown to form in acid sulfate soils in the Bangkok Plain, Thailand due to oxidation of Fe-sulfides that transformed saponite to nontronite. Smectite is known to transform to kaolinite in naturally acid soils due to selective leaching of Mg. However, if Mg removal is limited, then based on equilibrium relationships, the dissolution of smectite should be minimized. If Fe and Mg solution activities are sufficiently high, such as might be found in a low water/rock ratio system that is poorly drained, smectite could form and remain stable under mildly acidic conditions on Mars. The sources of mild acidity on early Mars includes elevated atmospheric CO2 levels, Fe-hydrolysis reactions, and the presence of volcanic SO2 aerosols. Equilibrium calculations dictate that water equilibrated with an early Mars CO2 atmosphere at 1 to 4 bar yields a pH of 3.6 to 3.9. Fe hydrolysis reactions on Mars is another source of protons that would have contributed to acidity. The presence of SO2 from volcanic processes could also have contributed to geochemical acidification. These sources of acidity competed with base-forming cations that resulted in mildly acidic solutions that were not favorable for carbonate formation but may have allowed for Fe/Mg smectite formation. Noachian to early Hesperian Mars could have been mildly acidic, allowing Fe/Mg smectite formation but preventing widespread carbonate deposition. This paradigm shift from an early Mars that was neutral-alkaline to mildly acidic may possibly explain why there is a disparity between the occurrence of carbonate and Fe/Mg smectites. Potential microbiological activity would not be eliminated under a mildly acidic Mars; however, there could be tighter constraints as to the type and species of microbiology that could exist.

  3. The Averno 2 fissure eruption: a recent small-size explosive event at the Campi Flegrei Caldera (Italy)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    di Vito, Mauro Antonio; Arienzo, Ilenia; Braia, Giuseppe; Civetta, Lucia; D'Antonio, Massimo; di Renzo, Valeria; Orsi, Giovanni

    2011-04-01

    The Averno 2 eruption (3,700 ± 50 a B.P.) was an explosive low-magnitude event characterized by magmatic and phreatomagmatic explosions, generating mainly fall and surge beds, respectively. It occurred in the Western sector of the Campi Flegrei caldera (Campanian Region, South Italy) at the intersection of two active fault systems, oriented NE and NW. The morphologically complex crater area, largely filled by the Averno lake, resulted from vent activation and migration along the NE-trending fault system. The eruption generated a complex sequence of pyroclastic deposits, including pumice fall deposits in the lower portion, and prevailing surge beds in the intermediate-upper portion. The pyroclastic sequence has been studied through stratigraphical, morphostructural and petrological investigations, and subdivided into three members named A through C. Member A was emplaced during the first phase of the eruption mainly by magmatic explosions which generated columns reaching a maximum height of 10 km. During this phase the eruption reached its climax with a mass discharge rate of 3.2 106 kg/s. Intense fracturing and fault activation favored entry of a significant amount of water into the system, which produced explosions driven by variably efficient water-magma interaction. These explosions generated wet to dry surge deposits that emplaced Member B and C, respectively. Isopachs and isopleths maps, as well as areal distribution of ballistic fragments and facies variation of surge deposits allow definition of four vents that opened along a NE oriented, 2 km long fissure. The total volume of magma extruded during the eruption has been estimated at about 0.07 km3 (DRE). The erupted products range in composition from initial, weakly peralkaline alkali-trachyte, to last-emplaced alkali-trachyte. Isotopic data and modeling suggest that mixing occurred during the Averno 2 eruption between a more evolved, less radiogenic stored magma, and a less evolved, more radiogenic magma that entered the shallow reservoir to trigger the eruption. The early phases of the eruption, during which the vent migrated from SW to the center of the present lake, were fed by the more evolved, uppermost magma, while the following phases extruded the less evolved, lowermost magma. Integration of the geological and petrological results suggests that the Averno 2 complex eruption was fed from a dyke-shaped shallow reservoir intruded into the NE-SW fault system bordering to the west the La Starza resurgent block, within the caldera floor.

  4. Effect of explosion-puffed coffee on locomotor activity and behavioral patterns in Drosophila melanogaster.

    PubMed

    Ko, Bong Soo; Ahn, So Hyun; Noh, Dong Ouk; Hong, Ki-Bae; Han, Sung Hee; Suh, Hyung Joo

    2017-10-01

    We hypothesized that the administration of explosion-puffed coffee, containing γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), would be associated with a reduction of the caffeine effect on sleep behavior and behavioral patterns, which was investigated in a Drosophila model. The effects of feeding roasted coffee beans (RB), explosion-puffed coffee beans puffed at 0.75MPa and 0.9MPa (PB 7.5 and PB 9.0, respectively), or decaffeinated coffee beans (DeRB) on locomotor activity and behavioral patterns of Drosophila was analyzed. In the decreasing order, the total chlorogenic acid (caffeoylquinic acids, CQA) content was PB 7.5>PB 9.0>RB. PB content analysis showed high levels of GABA and 5-HTP, compared with that of RB, which corresponded with the sleep-wake behavior of Drosophila. The RB and PB (PB 7.5 and PB 9.0) groups were not significantly different with respect to an activity count during the subjective night and day period compared with the normal controls. Sleep bout numbers of the normal, PB, and DeRB groups showed significant differences as compared with the caffeine and RB groups (p<0.05). The PB and DePB groups showed a significantly increased transcript levels for the GABA receptors compared to the caffeine group. The caffeine and RB groups displayed better climbing ability than the other groups, covering an average distance 6cm in the related test; the average distance covered by the normal, PB 7.5, and DeRB groups was <4cm. The normal and DeRB groups showed similar behavior patterns with respect to total distance, velocity, moving, not moving, and meander. However, the PB 7.5 group significantly regulated not moving and meander of flies compared to flies receiving only caffeine and RB. Suppression of the stimulating effect of caffeine by explosion-puffed coffee administration was indicated in the above results, which can be attributed to the increased content of GABA and 5-HTP with explosive puffing process carried out at 0.75MPa. Results of the underlying mechanism of the behavioral change patterns of explosive puffed with or without caffeine in Drosophila models, transcript level for the Dop1-R1 receptor in caffeine group was significantly higher than normal, PB, and DePB groups. Flies exposed to the caffeine had significantly decreased transcript levels for the GABA receptors. PB 7.5 and DePB showed higher level of GABA content than RB. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  5. 27 CFR 555.182 - Exceptions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-04-01

    ... testing of new or modified explosive materials; (2) Training in explosives detection or development or testing of explosives detection equipment; or (3) Forensic science purposes; or (b) Was plastic explosive... EXPLOSIVES, DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE EXPLOSIVES COMMERCE IN EXPLOSIVES Marking of Plastic Explosives § 555.182...

  6. 27 CFR 555.182 - Exceptions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... testing of new or modified explosive materials; (2) Training in explosives detection or development or testing of explosives detection equipment; or (3) Forensic science purposes; or (b) Was plastic explosive... EXPLOSIVES, DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE EXPLOSIVES COMMERCE IN EXPLOSIVES Marking of Plastic Explosives § 555.182...

  7. Generation of Vulcanian activity and long-period seismicity at Volcán de Colima, Mexico

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Varley, Nick; Arámbula-Mendoza, Raúl; Reyes-Dávila, Gabriel; Sanderson, Richard; Stevenson, John

    2010-12-01

    During the current episode, which commenced in 1998, activity at Volcán de Colima has been characterised by daily Vulcanian events, several effusive phases and a number of larger dome destroying explosions. The upper edifice comprises of an intricate array of fractures and within this system, variations in the magma ascent rate, rheology and volatile-contents complete a complexity which controls the style of activity. Subtle variations in one or more of these factors can trigger a transition. A model is presented of the Vulcanian explosion mechanism, which is reflected in the associated seismicity: first the breaching of an impermeable cap and the initial gas loss after the rupture (low-frequency signal), followed by fragmentation (high-frequency signal). In 2005, a series of larger Vulcanian explosions associated with ascending magma, represent the period of activity with the highest production rate in recent years. Pyroclastic flows were produced by column collapse, with the absence of vesicularity amongst the products pointing to a deep source of gas driving the eruption. The appearance of swarms of long-period (LP) events associated with the explosions provided a great opportunity for analysis and an insight into the processes within the fracture system, which control the eruptive style. Cross-correlation of the LP waveforms produced a series of ten families which reappeared in subsequent swarms suggesting a consistent source. Brittle fracture associated with the enhanced stain-rate found along the conduit margins is suggested as the source of this seismicity. This is supported by a linear relationship between log event rate and relative amplitude of the events within each swarm. An analysis of the temporal distribution of LP events revealed a variation in conditions between swarms. For some swarms, the conditions within the fracture system meant that a conflict between the processes associated with magma ascent was revealed, whilst for others, it was a situation of failure and backup, which can be interpreted as the failing and activation of different fractures within the upper edifice.

  8. [THE CHANGES OF NOCICEPTIVE THRESHOLD AND ACTIVITY OF THE ADENYLYL CYCLASE SYSTEM IN THE SKELETAL MUSCLES OF RATS WITH ACUTE AND MILD TYPE 1 DIABETES MELLITUS ].

    PubMed

    Shipilov, V N; Trost, A M; Chistyakova, O V; Derkach, K V; Shpakov, A O

    2016-02-01

    Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is one of the most common complications of the type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM1). The aim of the work was to study the dynamics of a painful DPN and functional state of the hormone-sensitive ACSS in the skeletal muscles of rats with the models of acute and mild DM1, as well as the study of impact on them of insulin therapy with different ways of hormone delivery - intranasal and peripheral. In both models of DM1, the level of nociceptive threshold in rats decreased and the stimulatory effects of guanine nucleotides (GppNHp) and adrenergic agonists (isoproterenol, BRL-37344) on adenylyl cyclase (AC) activity were attenuated. The AC stimulating effect of relaxin decreased in animals with acute DM1, but in mild DM1, the decrease was insignificant. Peripheral administration of insulin in rats with acute DM1 increased the nociceptive threshold and partially restored the AC effect of ß 3-agonist BRL-37344. Intranasal administration of insulin in rats with DM1 also increased the nociceptive threshold and partially restored the basal and BRL-37344-stimulated AC activity in the skeletal muscles of diabetic animals. Thus, in the skeletal muscles of rats with acute and mild DM1 the nociceptive sensitivity and the functions of ACSS were disturbed, and they were partially restored by the treatment with peripheral (acute DM1) or intranasal (mild DM1) insulin.

  9. 75 FR 81650 - Agency Information Collection Activities:

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-12-28

    ...] Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comments Requested ACTION: 30-Day Notice of Information Collection Under Review: Open Letter to States With Permits That Appear to Qualify as... Explosives (ATF) will be submitting the following information collection request to the Office of Management...

  10. 77 FR 59665 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comments Requested: Voluntary...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-09-28

    ... DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives [OMB Notice 1140-0092] Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comments Requested: Voluntary Magazine... collection. (2) Title of the Form/Collection: Voluntary Magazine Questionnaire for Agencies/Entities Who...

  11. 77 FR 70467 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comments Requested; ATF...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-11-26

    ... DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives [OMB Number 1140-0001] Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comments Requested; ATF Distribution Center Contractor Survey ACTION: 30-day notice. The Department of Justice (DOJ), Bureau of Alcohol...

  12. Frequency Based Volcanic Activity Detection through Remotely Sensed Data

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Worden, A. K.; Dehn, J.; Webley, P. W.

    2015-12-01

    Satellite remote sensing has proved to offer a useful and relatively inexpensive method for monitoring large areas where field work is logistically unrealistic, and potentially dangerous. Current sensors are able to detect the majority of explosive volcanic activity; those that tend to effect and represent larger scale changes in the volcanic systems, eventually relating to ash producing periods of extended eruptive activity, and effusive activity. As new spaceborne sensors are developed, the ability to detect activity improves so that a system to gauge the frequency of volcanic activity can be used as a useful monitoring tool. Four volcanoes were chosen for development and testing of a method to monitor explosive activity: Stromboli (Italy); Shishaldin and Cleveland (Alaska, USA); and Karymsky (Kamchatka, Russia). Each volcano studied had similar but unique signatures of pre-cursory and eruptive activity. This study has shown that this monitoring tool could be applied to a wide range of volcanoes and still produce useful and robust data. Our method deals specifically with the detection of small scale explosive activity. The method described here could be useful in an operational setting, especially at remote volcanoes that have the potential to impact populations, infrastructure, and the aviation community. A number of important factors will affect the validity of application of this method. They are: (1) the availability of a continuous and continually populated dataset; (2) appropriate and reasonable sensor resolutions; (3) a recorded history of the volcano's previous activity; and, if available, (4) some ground-based monitoring system. We aim to develop the method further to be able to capture and evaluate the frequency of other volcanic processes such as lava flows, phreatomagmatic eruptions and dome growth and collapse. The work shown here has served to illustrate the capability of this method and monitoring tool for use at remote, un-instrumented volcanoes.

  13. Using Geo-Data Corporately on the Response Phase of Emergency Management

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Demir Ozbek, E.; Ates, S.; Aydinoglu, A. C.

    2015-08-01

    Response phase of emergency management is the most complex phase in the entire cycle because it requires cooperation between various actors relating to emergency sectors. A variety of geo-data is needed at the emergency response such as; existing data provided by different institutions and dynamic data collected by different sectors at the time of the disaster. Disaster event is managed according to elaborately defined activity-actor-task-geodata cycle. In this concept, every activity of emergency response is determined with Standard Operation Procedure that enables users to understand their tasks and required data in any activity. In this study, a general conceptual approach for disaster and emergency management system is developed based on the regulations to serve applications in Istanbul Governorship Provincial Disaster and Emergency Directorate. The approach is implemented to industrial facility explosion example. In preparation phase, optimum ambulance locations are determined according to general response time of the ambulance to all injury cases in addition to areas that have industrial fire risk. Management of the industrial fire case is organized according to defined actors, activities, and working cycle that describe required geo-data. A response scenario was prepared and performed for an industrial facility explosion event to exercise effective working cycle of actors. This scenario provides using geo-data corporately between different actors while required data for each task is defined to manage the industrial facility explosion event. Following developing web technologies, this scenario based approach can be effective to use geo-data on the web corporately.

  14. Multiparametric approach to unravel the mechanism of Strombolian activity at a multivent system: Mt. Etna case study

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cannata, Andrea; Del Bello, Elisabetta; Kueppers, Ulrich; Privitera, Eugenio; Ricci, Tullio; Scarlato, Piergiorgio; Sciotto, Mariangela; Spina, Laura; Taddeucci, Jacopo; Pena Fernandez, Juan Jose; Sesterhenn, Joern

    2016-04-01

    On 5th July 2014 an eruptive fissure (hereafter referred to as EF) opened at the base of North-East Crater (NEC) of Mt. Etna. EF produced both Strombolian explosions and lava effusion. Thanks to the multiparametric experiment planned in the framework of MEDSUV project, we had the chance to acquire geophysical and volcanological data, in order to investigate the ongoing volcanic activity at EF. Temporary instruments (2 broadband seismometers, 2 microphones, 3-microphone arrays, a high-speed video camera and a thermal-camera) were deployed near the active vents during 15-16 July 2014 and were integrated with the data recorded by the permanent networks. Several kinds of studies are currently in progress, such as: frequency analysis by Fourier Transform and Short Time Fourier Transform to evaluate the spectral content of both seismic and acoustic signals; partitioning of seismic and acoustic energies, whose time variations could reflect changes in the volcanic dynamics; investigation on the intertimes between explosions to investigate their recurrence behaviour; classification of the waveforms of infrasound events. Furthermore, joint analysis of video signals and seismic-acoustic wavefields outlined relationships between pyroclasts ejection velocity, total erupted mass, peak explosion pressure, and air-ground motion coupling. This multiparametric approach allowed distinguishing and characterizing individually the behavior of the two vents active along the eruptive fissure via their thermal, visible and infrasonic signatures and shed light in the eruptive dynamics.

  15. Autistic characteristics in adults with epilepsy and perceived seizure activity.

    PubMed

    Wakeford, SallyAnn; Hinvest, Neal; Ring, Howard; Brosnan, Mark

    2015-11-01

    The prevalence of autism spectrum disorders in epilepsy is approximately 15%-47%, with previous research by Wakeford and colleagues reporting higher autistic traits in adults with epilepsy. The aim of this study was to investigate autistic characteristics and their relationship to having seizures by employing two behavioral assessments in two samples: adults with epilepsy and controls. The study employed the Social Responsiveness Scale - Shortened (SRS-S) (patients with epilepsy (n=76), control (n=19)) and the brief Repetitive Behavior Scale - Revised (RBS-R) (patients with epilepsy (n=47), control (n=21)). This study employed a unique method to quantify the extent to which autistic characteristics are related to perceived mild seizure activity. Adults with epilepsy were instructed to rate their usual behavior on each assessment and, at the same time, rate their behavior again when they perceived that they were having mild seizure activity. Significantly higher SRS-S scores were related to having a diagnosis of epilepsy and were perceived by adults with epilepsy to increase during mild seizure activity. These scores positively correlated with antiepileptic drug control. No difference was found for RBS-R scores in adults with epilepsy compared with controls. Together, these results suggest that adults with epilepsy have higher autistic characteristics measured by the social responsiveness scale, while sameness behaviors remain unimpaired. The autistic characteristics measured by the social responsiveness scale were reported by adults with epilepsy to be more severe during their mild seizure activity. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  16. Mitochondrial pharmacology: electron transport chain bypass as strategies to treat mitochondrial dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Atamna, Hani; Mackey, Jeanette; Dhahbi, Joseph M

    2012-01-01

    Mitochondrial dysfunction (primary or secondary) is detrimental to intermediary metabolism. Therapeutic strategies to treat/prevent mitochondrial dysfunction could be valuable for managing metabolic and age-related disorders. Here, we review strategies proposed to treat mitochondrial impairment. We then concentrate on redox-active agents, with mild-redox potential, who shuttle electrons among specific cytosolic or mitochondrial redox-centers. We propose that specific redox agents with mild redox potential (-0.1 V; 0.1 V) improve mitochondrial function because they can readily donate or accept electrons in biological systems, thus they enhance metabolic activity and prevent reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. These agents are likely to lack toxic effects because they lack the risk of inhibiting electron transfer in redox centers. This is different from redox agents with strong negative (-0.4 V; -0.2 V) or positive (0.2 V; 0.4 V) redox potentials who alter the redox status of redox-centers (i.e., become permanently reduced or oxidized). This view has been demonstrated by testing the effect of several redox active agents on cellular senescence. Methylene blue (MB, redox potential ≅10 mV) appears to readily cycle between the oxidized and reduced forms using specific mitochondrial and cytosolic redox centers. MB is most effective in delaying cell senescence and enhancing mitochondrial function in vivo and in vitro. Mild-redox agents can alter the biochemical activity of specific mitochondrial components, which then in response alters the expression of nuclear and mitochondrial genes. We present the concept of mitochondrial electron-carrier bypass as a potential result of mild-redox agents, a method to prevent ROS production, improve mitochondrial function, and delay cellular aging. Thus, mild-redox agents may prevent/delay mitochondria-driven disorders. Copyright © 2012 International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

  17. Substance P contributes to rapidly adapting receptor responses to pulmonary venous congestion in rabbits.

    PubMed Central

    Bonham, A C; Kott, K S; Ravi, K; Kappagoda, C T; Joad, J P

    1996-01-01

    1. This study tested the hypothesis that substance P stimulates rapidly adapting receptors (RARs), contributes to the increase in RAR activity produced by mild pulmonary congestion, and evokes an augmented response from RARs when combined with near-threshold levels of pulmonary congestion. 2. RAR activity, peak tracheal pressure, arterial blood pressure and left atrial pressure were measured in paralysed, anaesthetized and ventilated rabbits. Substance P was given i.v. in one-half log incremental doses to a maximum of 3 micrograms kg-1. Mild pulmonary congestion was produced by inflating a balloon in the left atrium to increase left atrial pressure by 5 mmHg. Near-threshold levels of pulmonary congestion were produced by increasing left atrial pressure by 2 mmHg. 3. Substance P produced dose-dependent increases in RAR activity. The highest dose given increased the activity from 1.3 +/- 0.5 to 11.0 +/- 3.1 impulses bin-1. Increases in left atrial pressure of 5 mmHg increased RAR activity from 3.8 +/- 1.4 to 14.7 +/- 3.9 impulses bin-1. Blockade of NK1 receptors with CP 96345 significantly attenuated RAR responses to substance P and to mild pulmonary congestion. 4. Doses of substance P, which alone had no effect, stimulated the RARs when delivered during near-threshold levels of pulmonary congestion. 5. The findings suggest that substance P augments the stimulatory effect of mild pulmonary congestion on RAR activity, most probably by enhancing hydraulically induced microvascular leak. Images Figure 6 PMID:8735708

  18. Imaging an Explosion with a 1000 Sensors: The SPE Large N Array

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mellors, R. J.; Snelson, C. M.; Pitarka, A.; Chen, T.; Matzel, E.; Walter, W. R.

    2016-12-01

    The Source Physics Experiment (SPE) is a series of heavily instrumented chemical explosions at the Nevada National Security Site (NNSS) designed to improve understanding of seismic wave generation and propagation from explosions. On April 26, 2016, a 5000 kg TNT equivalent chemical explosion (SPE5) was detonated at a depth of 76.5 meters (center) in a stemmed hole. The explosion was recorded by a temporary deployment of 1000 geophones with a variable spacing from 25 to 100 m and consisting of 500 vertical and 500 three-component 5 Hz geophones. Distance from ground zero to the geophones range from 400 to 3000 m. The shot is located in a weathered granite intrusive body surrounded by volcanic tuffs, Paleozoic carbonates, and alluvium. The purpose is to map the 3D waveform propagation with emphasis on the generation of S waves and to compare with synthetics. A focus is the transition from the granite to alluvium that occurs at a steeply dipping strike-slip fault. A secondary goal is to record ambient noise data for tomography. An active source experiment using a weight drop was also conducted. Data recovery was good, with approximately 95% of data recovered from the shot and up to 99% in the following weeks. In addition to the SPE5 shot, a variety of local earthquakes and teleseismic events were recorded. Prepared by LLNL under Contract DE-AC52-07NA27344.

  19. Explosive processes during the 2015 eruption of Axial Seamount, as recorded by seafloor hydrophones

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Caplan-Auerbach, J.; Dziak, R. P.; Haxel, J.; Bohnenstiehl, D. R.; Garcia, C.

    2017-04-01

    Following the installation of the Ocean Observatories Initiative cabled array, the 2015 eruption of Axial Seamount, Juan de Fuca ridge, became the first submarine eruption to be captured in real time by seafloor seismic and acoustic instruments. This eruption also marked the first instance where the entire eruption cycle of a submarine volcano, from the previous eruption in 2011 to the end of the month-long 2015 event, was monitored continuously using autonomous ocean bottom hydrophones. Impulsive sounds associated with explosive lava-water interactions are identified within hydrophone records during both eruptions. Explosions within the caldera are acoustically distinguishable from those occurring in association with north rift lava flows erupting in 2015. Acoustic data also record a series of broadband diffuse events, occurring in the waning phase of the eruption, and are interpreted as submarine Hawaiian explosions. This transition from gas-poor to gas-rich eruptive activity coincides with an increase in water temperature within the caldera and with a decrease in the rate of deflation. The last recorded diffuse events coincide with the end of the eruption, represented by the onset of inflation. All the observed explosion signals couple strongly into the water column, and only weakly into the solid Earth, demonstrating the importance of hydroacoustic observations as a complement to seismic and geodetic studies of submarine eruptions.

  20. The Synthesis of Phenyl Acetylene Phenols for Development of New Explosives

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chikhradze, Nikoloz; Nadirashvili, Merab; Khomeriki, Sergo; Varshanidze, Iasha

    2017-12-01

    The purpose of this research is to produce derivatives of simple phenols as “raw material” for the synthesis of new phenolic explosives. A big number of valuable products is synthesized from phenol and its homologues including well-known explosives - picric acid, methyl picrate, cresolite, etc. In general, a structural modification of well-known explosives’ molecules is the most important among the methods for the synthesis of new explosives. This method can be used in certain modifications. For example, the synthesis of methyl picrate is possible not only to replace picric acid’s hydroxyl with metoxyl, but with nitration of anisole as well, i. e, by the reciprocating synthesis. Thus, to produce the new analogues of well-known phenolic explosives, the preliminary modification of simple phenols’ molecules and further nitration, presumably by a formation of dinitro derivatives may be performed. The alkylation of phenol, anisole and m - cresol by the secondary phenyl acetylene alcohols in the presence of concentrated phosphoric acid was carried out. Para-substituted alkynyl phenols with high yields were developed. The chemical transformations were carried out by a participation of their molecules’ active centres. The corresponding ethers, esters and saturated isologues have been synthesized. The article describes the conditions of a synthesis of 14 new phenyl acetylenes’ substances that may be used as substrates in a nitration reaction.

  1. Therapeutic Hypothermia Reduces Oxidative Damage and Alters Antioxidant Defenses after Cardiac Arrest

    PubMed Central

    Hackenhaar, Fernanda S.; Medeiros, Tássia M.; Heemann, Fernanda M.; Behling, Camile S.; Putti, Jordana S.; Mahl, Camila D.; Verona, Cleber; da Silva, Ana Carolina A.; Guerra, Maria C.; Gonçalves, Carlos A. S.; Oliveira, Vanessa M.; Riveiro, Diego F. M.; Vieira, Silvia R. R.

    2017-01-01

    After cardiac arrest, organ damage consequent to ischemia-reperfusion has been attributed to oxidative stress. Mild therapeutic hypothermia has been applied to reduce this damage, and it may reduce oxidative damage as well. This study aimed to compare oxidative damage and antioxidant defenses in patients treated with controlled normothermia versus mild therapeutic hypothermia during postcardiac arrest syndrome. The sample consisted of 31 patients under controlled normothermia (36°C) and 11 patients treated with 24 h mild therapeutic hypothermia (33°C), victims of in- or out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. Parameters were assessed at 6, 12, 36, and 72 h after cardiac arrest in the central venous blood samples. Hypothermic and normothermic patients had similar S100B levels, a biomarker of brain injury. Xanthine oxidase activity is similar between hypothermic and normothermic patients; however, it decreases posthypothermia treatment. Xanthine oxidase activity is positively correlated with lactate and S100B and inversely correlated with pH, calcium, and sodium levels. Hypothermia reduces malondialdehyde and protein carbonyl levels, markers of oxidative damage. Concomitantly, hypothermia increases the activity of erythrocyte antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione S-transferase while decreasing the activity of serum paraoxonase-1. These findings suggest that mild therapeutic hypothermia reduces oxidative damage and alters antioxidant defenses in postcardiac arrest patients. PMID:28553435

  2. Mt. Erebus, Antarctica

    NASA Image and Video Library

    2016-01-15

    This image from NASA Terra spacecraft shows Mount Erebus, the world southernmost historically active volcano, overlooking the McMurdo research station on Ross Island. The 3794-m-high Erebus is the largest of three major volcanoes forming the crudely triangular Ross Island. An elliptical 500 x 600 m wide, 110-m-deep crater truncates the summit and contains an active lava lake within a 250-m-wide, 100-m-deep inner crater. The glacier-covered volcano was erupting when first sighted by Captain James Ross in 1841. Continuous lava-lake activity with minor explosions, punctuated by occasional larger strombolian explosions that eject bombs onto the crater rim, has been documented since 1972, but has probably been occurring for much of the volcano's recent history. The image was acquired December 31, 2013, covers an area of 63 x 73 km, and is located at 77.5 degrees south, 167.1 degrees east. http://photojournal.jpl.nasa.gov/catalog/PIA20239

  3. Mount St. Helens erupts again: activity from September 2004 through March 2005

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Major, Jon J.; Scott, William E.; Driedger, Carolyn; Dzurisin, Dan

    2005-01-01

    Eruptive activity at Mount St. Helens captured the world’s attention in 1980 when the largest historical landslide on Earth and a powerful explosion reshaped the volcano, created its distinctive crater, and dramatically modified the surrounding landscape. Over the next 6 years, episodic extrusions of lava built a large dome in the crater. From 1987 to 2004, Mount St. Helens returned to a period of relative quiet, interrupted by occasional, short-lived seismic swarms that lasted minutes to days, by months-to-yearslong increases in background seismicity that probably reflected replenishment of magma deep underground, and by minor steam explosions as late as 1991. During this period a new glacier grew in the crater and wrapped around and partly buried the lava dome. Although the volcano was relatively quiet, scientists with the U.S. Geological Survey and University of Washington’s Pacific Northwest Seismograph Network continued to closely monitor it for signs of renewed activity.

  4. Eruptions of Lassen Peak, California, 1914 to 1917

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Clynne, Michael A.; Christiansen, Robert L.; Felger, Tracey J.; Stauffer, Peter H.; Hendley, James W.

    1999-01-01

    On May 22, 1915, an explosive eruption at Lassen Peak, California, the southernmost active volcano in the Cascade Range, devastated nearby areas and rained volcanic ash as far away as 200 miles to the east. This explosion was the most powerful in a 1914–17 series of eruptions that were the last to occur in the Cascades before the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens, Washington. Recent work by scientists with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) in cooperation with the National Park Service is shedding new light on these eruptions.

  5. Ultra-Trace and Vapor Detection of Explosives and Narcotics Finalist for R&D 100 Award

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

    Ewing, Robert

    An instrument more sensitive than a canine’s nose identifies explosives and narcotics vapors in real time and at levels previously undetectable than any other sampling technology. The instrument is one among five PNNL-developed technologies in the running for an R&D 100 Award. Known as VP-IDENT, the tool coupled with a mass spectrometer, is ideal for aviation security, cargo screening, and broader counter-terrorism and national security activities where discovering dangerous substances is of utmost importance. Listen as researcher Robert Ewing explains.

  6. Pyroclastic Activity at Home Plate in Gusev Crater, Mars

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Squyres, S. W.; Aharonson, O.; Clark, B. S.; Cohen, B.; Crumpler, L.; deSouza, P. A.; Farrand, W. H.; Gellert, R.; Grant, J.; Grotzinger, J. P.; hide

    2007-01-01

    Home Plate is a layered plateau in Gusev crater on Mars. It is composed of clastic rocks of moderately altered alkali basalt composition, enriched in some highly volatile elements. A coarse-grained lower unit is overlain by a finer-grained upper unit. Textural observations indicate that the lower strata were emplaced in an explosive event, and geochemical considerations favor an explosive volcanic origin over an impact origin. The lower unit likely represents accumulation of pyroclastic materials, while the upper unit may represent eolian reworking of the same pyroclastic materials.

  7. Pyroclastic activity at home plate in Gusev crater, Mars

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Squyres, S. W.; Aharonson, O.; Clark, B. C.; Cohen, B. A.; Crumpler, L.; de Souza, P.A.; Farrand, W. H.; Gellert, Ralf; Grant, J.; Grotzinger, J.P.; Haldemann, A.F.C.; Johnson, J. R.; Klingelhofer, G.; Lewis, K.W.; Li, R.; McCoy, T.; McEwen, A.S.; McSween, H.Y.; Ming, D. W.; Moore, Johnnie N.; Morris, R.V.; Parker, T.J.; Rice, J. W.; Ruff, S.; Schmidt, M.; Schroder, C.; Soderblom, L.A.; Yen, A.

    2007-01-01

    Home Plate is a layered plateau in Gusev crater on Mars. It is composed of clastic rocks of moderately altered alkali basalt composition, enriched in some highly volatile elements. A coarse-grained lower unit lies under a finer-grained upper unit. Textural observations indicate that the lower strata were emplaced in an explosive event, and geochemical considerations favor an explosive volcanic origin over an impact origin. The lower unit likely represents accumulation of pyroclastic materials, whereas the upper unit may represent eolian reworking of the same pyroclastic materials.

  8. Ultra-Trace and Vapor Detection of Explosives and Narcotics Finalist for R&D 100 Award

    ScienceCinema

    Ewing, Robert

    2018-06-13

    An instrument more sensitive than a canine’s nose identifies explosives and narcotics vapors in real time and at levels previously undetectable than any other sampling technology. The instrument is one among five PNNL-developed technologies in the running for an R&D 100 Award. Known as VP-IDENT, the tool coupled with a mass spectrometer, is ideal for aviation security, cargo screening, and broader counter-terrorism and national security activities where discovering dangerous substances is of utmost importance. Listen as researcher Robert Ewing explains.

  9. Results of a Study Investigating the Plant Uptake of Explosive Residues From Compost of Explosives-Contaminated Soil Obtained from the Umatilla Army Depot Activity

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1998-11-01

    Avoid contact with samples. Be aware of broken containers, corrosives, irritants, biohazards, flammability, pyrophoricity , reactivity, radioactivity...Revision RO 9/23/97 Page 3 NOj-N by Flow Injection Analysis 6.2.2.2 Low results may be obtained for samples that contain high concentrations of iron ...however, for analytes such as iron that may be found at high concentration, a more appropriate test would be to use a concentration near the upper

  10. Rg to Lg Scattering Observations and Modeling

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Baker, G. E.; Stevens, J. L.; Xu, H.

    2005-12-01

    Lg is important to explosion yield estimation and earthquake/explosion discrimination, but the source of explosion generated Lg is still an area of active investigation. We investigate the contribution of Rg scattering to Lg. Common spectral nulls in vertical component Rg and Lg have been interpreted as evidence that scattered Rg is the dominant source of Lg in some areas. The nulls are assumed to result from non-spherical components of the explosion source, modeled as a CLVD located above the explosion. We compare Rg with 3-component Sg and Lg spectra in different source areas. Wavenumber synthetics and nonlinear source calculations constrain the predicted source spectra of Rg and directly generated Lg. Modal scattering calculations place bounds on the contribution of Rg to Lg relative to pS, S*, and directly generated S-waves. Rg recorded east and west of the Quartz 3 Deep Seismic Sounding explosion have persistent spectral nulls, but at different frequencies. The azimuthal dependence of the source spectra suggests that it may not be simply related to a CLVD source. The spectral nulls of Sg, Lg, and Lg coda do not correspond to the Rg spectral nulls, so for this overburied source, the spectral observations do not indicate that Rg scattering is a dominant contributor to Lg. Preliminary comparisons of Rg with Lg spectra for events from the Semipalatinsk Test Site yield a similar result. We compare Rg at 20-100 km with Lg at 650 km for Balapan and Degelen explosions with known yield and source depth. The events range from 130 to 50 percent of theoretical containment depth, so relative contributions from a CLVD are expected to vary significantly. For studied previously NTS and Kazakh depth of burial data, the use of 3-components provides further insight into scattering between components. In a complementary analysis, to assess whether S-wave generation is affected by source depth or scaled depth, we have examined regional phase amplitudes of 13 Degelen explosions with known yields and source depths. Initial Pn, the entire P wavetrain, Sn, Lg, and Lg coda have similar log amplitude vs. log yield curves. The slope of those curves varies with frequency, from approximately 0.84 at 0.6 Hz to 0.65 at 6 Hz. We will complement these results with similar observations of Balapan explosion records.

  11. 78 FR 22560 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comments Requested: Interstate...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-04-16

    ... DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives [OMB Number 1140-0004] Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comments Requested: Interstate Firearms Shipment Report of Theft/Loss Correction In notice document 2013-06779, appearing on page 18364 in the...

  12. 77 FR 4828 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comments Requested: Firearms...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-01-31

    ... DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives [OMB Number 1140-0060] Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comments Requested: Firearms Disabilities for Nonimmigrant Aliens Correction In notice document 2012-1057 appearing on page 3006 in the issue of...

  13. Behavior and Release of Nitrogen at Mines and Quarries in Nordic Conditions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Karlsson, Teemu; Neitola, Raisa; Jermakka, Johannes; Merta, Elina; Mroueh, Ulla-Maija

    2015-04-01

    The increased extraction of mineral resources and mining activities creates added pressure on the environmental issues and a proper water management in mining areas in Finland. Among others, nitrogen compounds released from explosives or from mining processes can have a detrimental effect on the environment. Thus, this project aimed at comprehensive understanding on the nitrogen issue in the extractive industry. The project collected essential data on nitrogen compounds present in the environments of mines and quarries, and generated better understanding of the discharge and behaviour of nitrogen compounds in mining areas. The sources and balances of explosives-originated nitrogen compounds at mines and quarries of different sizes were investigated and compared. Additionally, the focus was in 'nitrogen smudging' problem of waste rocks and the intensity, as well as evolution and chemical characteristics of their nitrogen contamination. According to the results, the total load of potential nitrogen to the environment depends on the scale and type of the activity as well as the type of explosives used. The main emission sources of nitrogen are process and dewatering waters. A lysimeter study showed that the explosives originated nitrogen content of left over stones from natural stone quarrying is relatively low and ca. half of the nitrogen is leached within the first weeks after detonation. The "nitrogen smudging" of natural stone quarrying left over stones is relatively low to begin with and enhanced by the rapid flushing by rainwater, thus the residues of explosives should not be considered to prevent the utilization of otherwise mineralogically inert waste rocks of good technical quality. The overall nitrogen management should take into account the background concentrations and sensitivity of the local ecosystem. The research project "Solution for Control of Nitrogen Discharges at Mines and Quarries, (MINIMAN)" was realized during years 2012-2014 as a cooperative project with GTK, VTT and TTY together with several industrial and international partners and financed by Tekes Green Mining Programme.

  14. Thermal history of the Acoculco geothermal system, eastern Mexico: Insights from numerical modeling and radiocarbon dating

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Canet, Carles; Trillaud, Frederic; Prol-Ledesma, Rosa María; González-Hernández, Galia; Peláez, Berenice; Hernández-Cruz, Berenice; Sánchez-Córdova, María M.

    2015-10-01

    Acoculco is a geothermal prospective area hosted by a volcanic caldera complex in the eastern Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt. Surface manifestations are scarce and consist of gas discharges (CO2-rich) and acid-sulfate springs of low temperature, whereas hydrothermal explosive activity is profusely manifested by meter-scale craters and mounds of hydrothermal debris and breccias. Silicic alteration extends for several square kilometers around the zone with gas manifestations and explosive features, affecting surficial volcanic rocks, primarily tuffs and breccias. In the subsurface, an argillic alteration zone (ammonium illite) extends down to a depth of ∼ 600 m, and underneath it a propylitic zone (epidote-calcite-chlorite) occurs down to ∼ 1000 m. Thermal logs from an exploratory borehole (EAC-1, drilled in 1995 down to 1810 m) showed a conductive heat transfer regime under high geothermal gradient (∼ 140 °C/1000 m). In contrast, the thermal profile established from temperatures of homogenization of fluid inclusions-measured on core samples from the same drill hole-suggests that convection occurred in the past through the upper ~ 1400 m of the geothermal system. A drop in permeability due to the precipitation of alteration minerals would have triggered the cessation of the convective heat transfer regime to give place to a conductive one. With the purpose of determining when the transition of heat transfer regime occurred, we developed a 1D model that simulates the time-depth distribution of temperature. According to our numerical simulations, this transition happened ca. 7000 years ago; this date is very recent compared to the lifespan of the geothermal system. In addition, radiocarbon chronology indicates that the hydrothermal explosive activity postdates the end of the convective heat transfer regime, having dated at least three explosive events, at 4867-5295, 1049-1417 and 543-709 y cal. BP. Therefore, hydrothermal explosions arise from the self-sealing of the Acoculco geothermal system, involving a natural hazard that could affect future geothermal-power infrastructure.

  15. Seismicity associated with quiescent-explosive transitions at dome forming eruptions: The July 2008 Vulcanian Explosion of Soufrière Hills Volcano, Montserrat

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rodgers, Mel; Smith, Patrick; Mather, Tamsin A.; Pyle, David M.

    2017-04-01

    During long-lived dome-forming eruptions volcanoes often transition between quiescent, effusive, and explosive behaviour. Soufrière Hills Volcano (SHV), Montserrat, has been erupting since 1995 and has repeatedly transitioned between these different phases of activity. At SHV many of the largest explosions have occurred either during periods of dome growth, or as major dome collapse events at the end of extrusion phases. However, on the 29th July 2008 a vulcanian explosion marked the transition from a quiescent phase (Pause 3) to explosion and then extrusion. This was one of the largest explosions by volume and the largest to occur outside a period of lava extrusion. The eruption was preceded by one of the most intense seismic swarms ever recorded at SHV. In this study we analysed precursory seismic data to investigate the subsurface volcanic processes that culminated in this eruption. We used spectral and multiplet analysis techniques, and applied a simple parameterization approach to relate monitoring observations (seismic, SO2, visual) to subsurface interpretations. These techniques would be available to most volcano observatories. Our study suggests that an initial VT swarm, coincident with ash-venting events, can be triggered by ascent of decoupled gas ahead of rising magma. A subsequent large LF swarm shows a coincident decrease in spectral content that we interpret as magma ascent through the upper conduit system. An ash-venting event on 27 July (a few hours before peak event rate) may have triggered rapid microlite growth. We observe an increase in the spectral content of the LF swarm that is concurrent with a decrease in event rates, suggesting pressurization of the magmatic system due to inhibited magmatic outgassing. Our results suggest that pressurization of the magmatic system may have occurred in the final 24 h before the vulcanian explosion. We also observe LP and Hybrid events within the same multiplet, suggesting that these events have very similar source processes and should be considered part of the same classification at SHV. Our study demonstrates the potential for using spectral and multiplet analysis to understand subsurface magmatic processes and for investigating the transition between quiescence and eruption.

  16. Occurrence of Somma-Vesuvio fine ashes in the tephrostratigraphic record of Panarea, Aeolian Islands

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Donatella, De Rita; Daniela, Dolfi; Corrado, Cimarelli

    2008-10-01

    Ash-rich tephra layers interbedded in the pyroclastic successions of Panarea island (Aeolian archipelago, Southern Italy) have been analyzed and related to their original volcanic sources. One of these tephra layers is particularly important as it can be correlated by its chemical and morphoscopic characteristics to the explosive activity of Somma-Vesuvio. Correlation with the Pomici di Base eruption, that is considered one of the largest explosive events causing the demolition of the Somma stratovolcano, seems the most probable. The occurrence on Panarea island of fine ashes related to this eruption is of great importance for several reasons: 1) it allows to better constrain the time stratigraphy of the Panarea volcano; 2) it provides a useful tool for tephrochronological studies in southern Italy and finally 3) it allows to improve our knowledge on the distribution of the products of the Pomici di Base eruption giving new insights on the dispersion trajectories of fine ashes from plinian plumes. Other exotic tephra layers interbedded in the Panarea pyroclastic successions have also been found. Chemical and sedimentological characteristics of these layers allow their correlation with local vents from the Aeolian Islands thus constraining the late explosive activity of Panarea dome.

  17. Catalog of Tephra Samples from Kilauea's Summit Eruption, March-December 2008

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Wooten, Kelly M.; Thornber, Carl R.; Orr, Tim R.; Ellis, Jennifer F.; Trusdell, Frank A.

    2009-01-01

    The opening of a new vent within Halema'uma'u Crater in March 2008 ended a 26-year period of no eruptive activity at the summit of Kilauea Volcano. It also heralded the first explosive activity at Kilauea's summit since 1924 and the first of eight discrete explosive events in 2008. At the onset of the eruption, the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) initiated a rigorous program of sample collection to provide a temporally constrained suite of tephra samples for petrographic, geochemical, and isotopic studies. Petrologic studies help us understand conditions of magma generation at depth; processes related to transport, storage, and mixing of magma within the shallow summit region; and specific circumstances leading to explosive eruptions. This report provides a catalog of tephra samples erupted at Kilauea's summit from March 19, 2008, through the end of 2008. The Kilauea 2008 Summit Sample Catalog is tabulated in the accompanying Microsoft Excel file, of2009-1134.xls (four file types linked on right). The worksheet in this file provides sampling information and sample descriptions. Contextual information for this catalog is provided below and includes (1) a narrative of 2008 summit eruptive activity, (2) a description of sample collection methods, (3) a scheme for characterizing a diverse range in tephra lithology, and (4) an explanation of each category of sample information (column headers) in the Microsoft Excel worksheet.

  18. Activation of the Mechanistic Target of Rapamycin in SLE: Explosion of Evidence in the Last Five Years

    PubMed Central

    Oaks, Zachary; Winans, Thomas; Huang, Nick; Banki, Katalin; Perl, Andras

    2017-01-01

    The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a central regulator in cell growth, activation, proliferation, and survival. Activation of the mTOR pathway underlies the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). While mTOR activation and its therapeutic reversal were originally discovered in T cells, recent investigations have also uncovered roles in other cell subsets including B cells, macrophages, and “non-immune” organs such as the liver and the kidney. Activation of mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) precedes the onset of SLE and associated co-morbidities, such as anti-phospholipid syndrome (APS), and may act as an early marker of disease pathogenesis. Six case reports have now been published that document the development of SLE in patients with genetic activation of mTORC1. Targeting mTORC1 over-activation with N-acetylcysteine, rapamycin, and rapalogs provides an opportunity to supplant current therapies with severe side effect profiles such as prednisone or cyclophosphamide. In the present review, we will discuss the recent explosion of findings in support for a central role for mTOR activation in SLE. PMID:27812954

  19. Physical self-concept and its link to cardiopulmonary exercise tolerance among adolescents with mild congenital heart disease.

    PubMed

    Chen, Chi-Wen; Su, Wen-Jen; Wang, Jou-Kou; Yang, Hsiao-Ling; Chiang, Yueh-Tao; Moons, Philip

    2015-06-01

    Due to medical advances, most children with congenital heart disease (CHD) are expected to survive into adulthood. Establishing adequate physical self-concept and cardiopulmonary tolerance during the adolescent period can primarily enhance overall well-being. The purpose of this study was to undertake a gender-specific evaluation of the domain of physical self-concept among adolescents with mild CHD, and to examine the relationships between physical self-concept and cardiopulmonary exercise tolerance among adolescents with mild CHD. Four hundred and thirteen adolescents 12-20 years of age, whose cardiologists had not recommended any limitation of exercise, completed Physical Self-Description Questionnaires and three-minute step tests in two outpatient cardiology departments. The male participants had significantly greater scores in measures of overall physical self-concept, competence in sports, physical appearance, body fat, physical activity, endurance, and strength than did the female participants. More than 80% of the participants had at least an average cardiopulmonary exercise tolerance index. The perception of not being 'too fat' and being more physically active were significant correlates of better cardiopulmonary exercise tolerance for adolescents with mild CHD. The results provided evidence for gender-specific evaluation of domains of physical self-concept among adolescents with mild CHD. The three-minute step test to measure cardiopulmonary exercise tolerance in adolescents with mild CHD may be an appropriate objective measure for use in future research. Continued efforts are needed in early intervention to promote cardiopulmonary exercise tolerance. © The European Society of Cardiology 2014.

  20. Identifying the Volcanic Eruption Depicted in a Neolithic Painting at Çatalhöyük, Central Anatolia, Turkey

    PubMed Central

    Schmitt, Axel K.; Danišík, Martin; Aydar, Erkan; Şen, Erdal; Ulusoy, İnan; Lovera, Oscar M.

    2014-01-01

    A mural excavated at the Neolithic Çatalhöyük site (Central Anatolia, Turkey) has been interpreted as the oldest known map. Dating to ∼6600 BCE, it putatively depicts an explosive summit eruption of the Hasan Dağı twin-peaks volcano located ∼130 km northeast of Çatalhöyük, and a birds-eye view of a town plan in the foreground. This interpretation, however, has remained controversial not least because independent evidence for a contemporaneous explosive volcanic eruption of Hasan Dağı has been lacking. Here, we document the presence of andesitic pumice veneer on the summit of Hasan Dağı, which we dated using (U-Th)/He zircon geochronology. The (U-Th)/He zircon eruption age of 8.97±0.64 ka (or 6960±640 BCE; uncertainties 2σ) overlaps closely with 14C ages for cultural strata at Çatalhöyük, including level VII containing the “map” mural. A second pumice sample from a surficial deposit near the base of Hasan Dağı records an older explosive eruption at 28.9±1.5 ka. U-Th zircon crystallization ages in both samples range from near-eruption to secular equilibrium (>380 ka). Collectively, our results reveal protracted intrusive activity at Hasan Dağı punctuated by explosive venting, and provide the first radiometric ages for a Holocene explosive eruption which was most likely witnessed by humans in the area. Geologic and geochronologic lines of evidence thus support previous interpretations that residents of Çatalhöyük artistically represented an explosive eruption of Hasan Dağı volcano. The magmatic longevity recorded by quasi-continuous zircon crystallization coupled with new evidence for late-Pleistocene and Holocene explosive eruptions implicates Hasan Dağı as a potential volcanic hazard. PMID:24416270

  1. Relationships Between Subsurface Processes and Eruptive Products at Maar-diatreme Volcanoes Using Numerical Modeling and Tephra Ring Componentry

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sweeney, M. R.; Valentine, G.; Grosso, Z.

    2016-12-01

    Diatremes represent a unique example of a volcanic plumbing system in which the physical characteristics of the system control eruption dynamics, but in turn, the eruption dynamics greatly dictate how the diatreme evolves. As a result, interpreting surface deposits such as tephra rings is difficult in the context of the whole volcano system. Here we present a novel application of multiphase numerical modeling to simulate intra-diatreme explosions and their effects on transport and mixing length scales. This and previous work have shown that whether an explosion erupts material out of the diatreme depends on several variables, but especially the depth and energy of the explosion. Explosions deeper than 250 m are unlikely to erupt unless extremely large amounts of magma and water are involved. Erupted material at maar-diatreme volcanoes is therefore mostly sourced from the upper-most part of the diatreme. Our modeling shows that following an explosion, the material immediately surrounding and overlying the explosion site is propelled toward the surface via debris jets, which are imperfectly coupled gas-solid mixtures. As the debris jet ascends, material elsewhere in the diatreme undergoes substantial subsidence. This subsidence can be responsible for long residence times of clasts in the diatreme, which together with other factors such as "non-erupting" explosions, can bias a simple interpretation of tephra ring deposits (i.e. the presence of a certain lithology is indicative of the depth at which the eruption originated from). In light of these findings, tephra ring componentry from Dotsero Volcano (Colorado, USA) is compared to volume estimates of the well-constrained subsurface geology to estimate the proportions of different country rock units that might preside in the diatreme. These data in conjunction with different modeling scenarios elucidate intra-diatreme processes such as debris jet activity and their role in forming surface deposits.

  2. "Fooling fido"--chemical and behavioral studies of pseudo-explosive canine training aids.

    PubMed

    Kranz, William D; Strange, Nicholas A; Goodpaster, John V

    2014-12-01

    Genuine explosive materials are traditionally employed in the training and testing of explosive-detecting canines so that they will respond reliably to these substances. However, challenges arising from the acquisition, storage, handling, and transportation of explosives have given rise to the development of "pseudo-explosive" training aids. These products attempt to emulate the odor of real explosives while remaining inert. Therefore, a canine trained on a pseudo-explosive should respond to its real-life analog. Similarly, a canine trained on an actual explosive should respond to the pseudo-explosive as if it was real. This research tested those assumptions with a focus on three explosives: single-base smokeless powder, 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT), and a RDX-based plastic explosive (Composition C-4). Using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry with solid phase microextraction as a pre-concentration technique, we determined that the volatile compounds given off by pseudo-explosive products consisted of various solvents, known additives from explosive formulations, and common impurities present in authentic explosives. For example, simulated smokeless powders emitted terpenes, 2,4-dinitrotoluene, diphenylamine, and ethyl centralite. Simulated TNT products emitted 2,4- and 2,6-dinitrotoluene. Simulated C-4 products emitted cyclohexanone, 2-ethyl-1-hexanol, and dimethyldinitrobutane. We also conducted tests to determine whether canines trained on pseudo-explosives are capable of alerting to genuine explosives and vice versa. The results show that canines trained on pseudo-explosives performed poorly at detecting all but the pseudo-explosives they are trained on. Similarly, canines trained on actual explosives performed poorly at detecting all but the actual explosives on which they were trained.

  3. Ginkgo Biloba for Mild Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer's Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

    PubMed

    Yang, Guoyan; Wang, Yuyi; Sun, Jin; Zhang, Kang; Liu, Jianping

    2016-01-01

    Ginkgo biloba is a natural medicine used for cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease. The objective of this review is to explore the effectiveness and safety of Ginkgo biloba in treating mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease. Electronic search was conducted from PubMed, Cochrane Library, and four major Chinese databases from their inception up to 1(st) December, 2014 for randomized clinical trials on Ginkgo biloba in treating mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's disease. Meta-analyses were performed by RevMan 5.2 software. 21 trials with 2608 patients met the inclusion criteria. The general methodological quality of included trials was moderate to poor. Compared with conventional medicine alone, Ginkgo biboba in combination with conventional medicine was superior in improving Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores at 24 weeks for patients with Alzheimer's disease (MD 2.39, 95% CI 1.28 to 3.50, P<0.0001) and mild cognitive impairment (MD 1.90, 95% CI 1.41 to 2.39, P<0.00001), and Activity of Daily Living (ADL) scores at 24 weeks for Alzheimer's disease (MD -3.72, 95% CI -5.68 to -1.76, P=0.0002). When compared with placebo or conventional medicine in individual trials, Ginkgo biboba demonstrated similar but inconsistent findings. Adverse events were mild. Ginkgo biloba is potentially beneficial for the improvement of cognitive function, activities of daily living, and global clinical assessment in patients with mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's disease. However, due to limited sample size, inconsistent findings and methodological quality of included trials, more research are warranted to confirm the effectiveness and safety of ginkgo biloba in treating mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease.

  4. Computer simulation of explosion crater in dams with different buried depths of explosive

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Zhichao; Ye, Longzhen

    2018-04-01

    Based on multi-material ALE method, this paper conducted a computer simulation on the explosion crater in dams with different buried depths of explosive using LS-DYNA program. The results turn out that the crater size increases with the increase of buried depth of explosive at first, but closed explosion cavity rather than a visible crater is formed when the buried depth of explosive increases to some extent. The soil in the explosion cavity is taken away by the explosion products and the soil under the explosion cavity is compressed with its density increased. The research can provide some reference for the anti-explosion design of dams in the future.

  5. Mild Thyroid Hormone Insufficiency During Development Compromises Activity-Dependent Neuroplasticity in the Hippocampus of Adult Male Rats

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    behavioral measures of learning and memory in adult offspring of rats treated with thyroid hormone synthesis inhibitor, propylthiouracil.Electrophysiological measures of 'memory' in form of plasticity model known as long term potentiation (LTP)Molecular changes induced by LTPThis dataset is associated with the following publication:Gilbert , M., K. Sanchez-Huerta, and C. Wood. Mild Thyroid Hormone Insufficiency During Development Compromises Activity-Dependent Neuroplasticity in the Hippocampus of Adult Make Rats. ENDOCRINOLOGY. Endocrine Society, 157(2): 774-87, (2016).

  6. Manganese-Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging as a Diagnostic and Dispositional Tool after Mild-Moderate Blast Traumatic Brain Injury

    PubMed Central

    Schaefer, Michele L.; Wester, Brock; Lee, Yi-Chien; Boggs, Nathan; Conner, Howard A.; Merkle, Andrew C.; Fricke, Stanley T.; Albanese, Chris; Koliatsos, Vassilis E.

    2016-01-01

    Abstract Traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by explosive munitions, known as blast TBI, is the signature injury in recent military conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. Diagnostic evaluation of TBI, including blast TBI, is based on clinical history, symptoms, and neuropsychological testing, all of which can result in misdiagnosis or underdiagnosis of this condition, particularly in the case of TBI of mild-to-moderate severity. Prognosis is currently determined by TBI severity, recurrence, and type of pathology, and also may be influenced by promptness of clinical intervention when more effective treatments become available. An important task is prevention of repetitive TBI, particularly when the patient is still symptomatic. For these reasons, the establishment of quantitative biological markers can serve to improve diagnosis and preventative or therapeutic management. In this study, we used a shock-tube model of blast TBI to determine whether manganese-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MEMRI) can serve as a tool to accurately and quantitatively diagnose mild-to-moderate blast TBI. Mice were subjected to a 30 psig blast and administered a single dose of MnCl2 intraperitoneally. Longitudinal T1-magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) performed at 6, 24, 48, and 72 h and at 14 and 28 days revealed a marked signal enhancement in the brain of mice exposed to blast, compared with sham controls, at nearly all time-points. Interestingly, when mice were protected with a polycarbonate body shield during blast exposure, the marked increase in contrast was prevented. We conclude that manganese uptake can serve as a quantitative biomarker for TBI and that MEMRI is a minimally-invasive quantitative approach that can aid in the accurate diagnosis and management of blast TBI. In addition, the prevention of the increased uptake of manganese by body protection strongly suggests that the exposure of an individual to blast risk could benefit from the design of improved body armor. PMID:26414591

  7. Manganese-Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging as a Diagnostic and Dispositional Tool after Mild-Moderate Blast Traumatic Brain Injury.

    PubMed

    Rodriguez, Olga; Schaefer, Michele L; Wester, Brock; Lee, Yi-Chien; Boggs, Nathan; Conner, Howard A; Merkle, Andrew C; Fricke, Stanley T; Albanese, Chris; Koliatsos, Vassilis E

    2016-04-01

    Traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by explosive munitions, known as blast TBI, is the signature injury in recent military conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. Diagnostic evaluation of TBI, including blast TBI, is based on clinical history, symptoms, and neuropsychological testing, all of which can result in misdiagnosis or underdiagnosis of this condition, particularly in the case of TBI of mild-to-moderate severity. Prognosis is currently determined by TBI severity, recurrence, and type of pathology, and also may be influenced by promptness of clinical intervention when more effective treatments become available. An important task is prevention of repetitive TBI, particularly when the patient is still symptomatic. For these reasons, the establishment of quantitative biological markers can serve to improve diagnosis and preventative or therapeutic management. In this study, we used a shock-tube model of blast TBI to determine whether manganese-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MEMRI) can serve as a tool to accurately and quantitatively diagnose mild-to-moderate blast TBI. Mice were subjected to a 30 psig blast and administered a single dose of MnCl2 intraperitoneally. Longitudinal T1-magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) performed at 6, 24, 48, and 72 h and at 14 and 28 days revealed a marked signal enhancement in the brain of mice exposed to blast, compared with sham controls, at nearly all time-points. Interestingly, when mice were protected with a polycarbonate body shield during blast exposure, the marked increase in contrast was prevented. We conclude that manganese uptake can serve as a quantitative biomarker for TBI and that MEMRI is a minimally-invasive quantitative approach that can aid in the accurate diagnosis and management of blast TBI. In addition, the prevention of the increased uptake of manganese by body protection strongly suggests that the exposure of an individual to blast risk could benefit from the design of improved body armor.

  8. Bullet Impact Safety Study of PBX-9502

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ferranti, Louis

    2013-06-01

    A new small arms capability for performing bullet impact testing into energetic materials has recently been activated at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory located in the High Explosives Applications Facility (HEAF). The initial capability includes 0.223, 0.30, and 0.50 testing calibers with the flexibility to add other barrels in the near future. An initial test series has been performed using the 0.50 caliber barrel shooting bullets into targets using the TATB based explosive PBX-9502 and shows an expected non-violent reaction. Future experiments to evaluate the safety of new explosive formulations to bullet impact are planned. A highlight of the new capability along with discussion of the initial experiments to date will be presented including future areas of research. This work performed under the auspices of the U.S. Department of Energy by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory under Contract DE-AC52-07NA27344.

  9. Potential dangers of accelerant use in arson.

    PubMed

    Heath, Karen; Kobus, Hilton; Byard, Roger W

    2011-02-01

    Accelerant-enhanced combustion often characterizes a fire that has been deliberately set to disguise a murder scene or to destroy property for insurance purposes. The intensity and rapidity of spread of fires where accelerants have been used are often underestimated by perpetrators who may sustain heat-related injuries. The case of a 49-year-old male who was using gasoline (petrol) as an accelerant is reported to demonstrate another danger of this type of activity. After ignition, an explosion occurred that destroyed the building and caused the death of the victim who was crushed beneath a rear wall of the commercial premises. Gasoline vapour/air mixtures are extremely volatile and may cause significant explosions if exposed to flame. Given the potential danger of explosion, arsonists using accelerants do so at significant risk to themselves and to others in the vicinity. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd and Faculty of Forensic and Legal Medicine. All rights reserved.

  10. The role of chemical reactions in the Chernobyl accident

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

    Grishanin, E. I., E-mail: egrishanin@orexovo.net

    2010-12-15

    It is shown that chemical reactions played an essential role in the Chernobyl accident at all of its stages. It is important that the reactor before the explosion was at maximal xenon poisoning, and its reactivity, apparently, was not destroyed by the explosion. The reactivity release due to decay of Xe-235 on the second day after the explosion led to a reactor power of 80-110 MW. Owing to this power, the chemical reactions of reduction of uranium, plutonium, and other metals at a temperature of about 2000 Degree-Sign C occurred in the core. The yield of fission products thus sharplymore » increased. Uranium and other metals flew down in the bottom water communications and rooms. After reduction of the uranium and its separation from the graphite, the chain reaction stopped, the temperature of the core decreased, and the activity yield stopped.« less

  11. SN 1991T - Gamma-Ray Observatory's first supernova?

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Burrows, Adam; Shankar, Anurag; Van Riper, Kenneth A.

    1991-01-01

    Consideration is given to the explosion of the Type Ia supernova SN 1991T in the nearby galaxy NGC 4527 detected in gamma-ray lines by the recently launched GRO. The dominant gamma-line and continuum features of the new 'delayed detonation' model FDEFA1 are calculated and compared to those for standard deflagration models W7 and cdtg7. It is shown that there are many useful hard photon discriminants of the Type Ia explosion mechanism that can, in principle, be detected by the OSSE and COMPTEL instruments on the GRO. Either SN 1991T, if bright enough, or one of the several Type Ia supernovae expected to be within the GRO's range during its active life, may make it possible to settle the detonation/deflagration debate, verify the generic thermonuclear white dwarf model of Type Ia explosions, and calibrate the Type Ia B(max)/847 keV line flux ratio.

  12. Nanoporous Substrate with Mixed Nanoclusters for Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering.

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chang, Sehoon; Ko, Hyunhyub; Singamaneni, Srikanth; Gunawidjaja, Ray; Tsukruk, Vladimir

    2009-03-01

    Rapid detection of plastic and liquid explosives is an urgent need due to various societal and technological reasons. We employed a novel design of surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS)-active substrate based on porous alumina membranes decorated with mixed nanoclusters of gold nanorods and nanoparticles. We demonstrated trace level detection of several important explosives such as dinitrotolene (DNT), trinitrotoluene (TNT), and hexamethylenetriperoxidediamine (HMTD) by fast, sensitive, reliable Raman spectroscopic method. We achieved near molecular-level detection (about 15˜ 30 molecules) of DNT and TNT utilizing the SERS substrate. However, trace level detection is challenging due to the lack of common optical signatures (fluorescence, absorption in UV-vis range) or chemical functionality of peroxide-based explosives such as HMTD. To overcome this, we employed photochemical decomposition approach and analyzed chemical fragments using SERS. We suggest that tailored polymer coating, mixed nanoclusters, and laser-induced photocatalytic decomposition are all critical for achieving this unprecedented sensitivity level..

  13. Explosion of Leidenfrost Droplets

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Moreau, Florian; Colinet, Pierre; Dorbolo, Stephane

    2012-11-01

    When a drop is released on a plate heated above a given temperature, a thin layer of vapour can isolate the droplet so that it levitates over the plate. This effect was first reported by Leidenfrost in 1756. However, this fascinating subject remains an active field of research in both fundamental and applied researches. In this work, we focus on what happens when surfactant is added to the drop. The aim is to study the influence of a decrease of the surface tension. Surprisingly, as the droplet evaporates, suddenly it explodes. The evolution of the droplet and the resulting explosion are followed using a high speed camera. We show that when a critical concentration of surfactant is reached inside the drop, a shell of surfactant is formed leading to the explosion. The authors would like to thank FNRS for financial support. This work is financially supported by ODILE project (Contract No. FRFC 2.4623.11).

  14. Acoustic trauma

    MedlinePlus

    ... caused by: Explosion near the ear Firing a gun near the ear Long-term exposure to loud ... to your hearing from activities such as shooting guns, using chain saws, or driving motorcycles and snowmobiles. ...

  15. YouTube, Critical Pedagogy, and Media Activism

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kellner, Douglas; Kim, Gooyong

    2010-01-01

    Critical pedagogy believes education to be a form of cultural politics that is fundamental to social transformation aiming to cultivate human agency and transformative activity. The explosion of information and communication technologies (ICTs) has provided ordinary people with unprecedented opportunities to take on the ruling educational power…

  16. The effect of a VR exercise program on falls and depression in the elderly with mild depression in the local community.

    PubMed

    Yang, Jong-Eun; Lee, Tac-Young; Kim, Jin-Kyung

    2017-12-01

    [Purpose] The purpose of this study is to explore the effect of a VR exercise program on falls and depression in the elderly with mild depression who reside in the local community. [Subjects and Methods] This study was performed by targeting 15 elderly subjects with mild depression who resided in the local community. The targeted subjects voluntarily selected 3 VR exercise programs (each lasting 10 minutes) among 4 activities, and a resting time of 5 minutes was given for an interval after each activity. The VR exercise program was performed for total 12 weeks (36 times), 3 times a week, 45 minutes per session. [Results] After exercise, scores of static balance test (anteroposterior), Falls Efficacy Scale, and the Activities-specific Balance Confidence Scale in the test subjects were improved and depression and internal stress scores were significantly decreased after the intervention. [Conclusion] It can be concluded that the VR exercise program exerts a positive effect not only on the physical factor but also on the mental factor of the elderly subjects with mild depression who reside in the local community. It is expected that based on the VR exercise program, diversified home programs for the elderly should be developed in the future.

  17. Modulation of working memory load distinguishes individuals with and without balance impairments following mild traumatic brain injury.

    PubMed

    Woytowicz, Elizabeth J; Sours, Chandler; Gullapalli, Rao P; Rosenberg, Joseph; Westlake, Kelly P

    2018-01-01

    Balance and gait deficits can persist after mild traumatic brain injury (TBI), yet an understanding of the underlying neural mechanism remains limited. The purpose of this study was to investigate differences in attention network modulation in patients with and without balance impairments 2-8 weeks following mild TBI. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging, we compared activity and functional connectivity of cognitive brain regions of the default mode, central-executive and salience networks during a 2-back working memory task in participants with mild TBI and balance impairments (n = 7, age 47 ± 15 years) or no balance impairments (n = 7, age 47 ± 15 years). We first identified greater activation in the lateral occipital cortex in the balance impaired group. Second, we observed stronger connectivity of left pre-supplementary motor cortex in the balance impaired group during the working memory task, which was related to decreased activation of regions within the salience and central executive networks and greater suppression of the default mode network. Results suggest a link between impaired balance and modulation of cognitive resources in patients in mTBI. Findings also highlight the potential importance of moving beyond traditional balance assessments towards an integrative assessment of cognition and balance in this population.

  18. Laser-based firing systems for prompt initiation of secondary explosives

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Meeks, Kent D.; Setchell, Robert E.

    1993-01-01

    Motivated by issues of weapon safety and security, laser based firing systems for promptly initiating secondary explosives have been under active development at Sandia National Laboratories for more than four years. Such a firing system consists of miniaturized, Q-switched, solid-state laser, optical detonators, optical safety switches, and elements for splitting, coupling, and transmitting the laser output. Potential system applications pose significant challenges in terms of server mechanical and thermal environments and packaging constraints, while requiring clear demonstration of safety enhancements. The Direct Optical Initiation (DOI) Program at Sandia is addressing these challenges through progress development phases during which the design, fabrication, and testing of prototype hardware is aimed at more difficult application requirements. A brief history of the development program, and a summary of current and planned activities, will be presented.

  19. Explosive Fracturing of an F-16 Canopy for Through-Canopy Crew Egress

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Bement, Laurence J.

    2000-01-01

    Through-canopy crew egress, such as in the Harrier (AV-8B) aircraft, expands escape envelopes by reducing seat ejection delays in waiting for canopy jettison. Adverse aircraft attitude and reduced forward flight speed can further increase the times for canopy jettison. However, the advent of heavy, high-strength polycarbonate canopies for bird-strike resistance has not only increased jettison times, but has made seat penetration impossible. The goal of the effort described in this paper was to demonstrate a method of explosively fracturing the F-16 polycarbonate canopy to allow through-canopy crew ejection. The objectives of this effort were to: 1. Mount the explosive materials on the exterior of the canopy within the mold line, 2. Minimize visual obstructions, 3. Minimize internal debris on explosive activation, 4. Operate within less than 10 ms, 5. Maintain the shape of the canopy after functioning to prevent major pieces from entering the cockpit, and 6. Minimize the resistance of the canopy to seat penetration. All goals and objectives were met in a full-scale test demonstration. In addition to expanding crew escape envelopes, this canopy fracture approach offers the potential for reducing system complexity, weight and cost, while increasing overall reliability, compared to current canopy jettison approaches. To comply with International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and permit public disclosure, this document addresses only the principles of explosive fracturing of the F-16 canopy materials and the end result. ITAR regulations restrict information on improving the performance of weapon systems. Therefore, details on the explosive loads and final assembly of this canopy fracture approach, necessary to assure functional performance, are not included.

  20. Improved thermal neutron activation sensor for detection of bulk explosives

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    McFee, John E.; Faust, Anthony A.; Andrews, H. Robert; Clifford, Edward T. H.; Mosquera, Cristian M.

    2012-06-01

    Defence R&D Canada - Suffield and Bubble Technology Industries have been developing thermal neutron activation (TNA) sensors for detection of buried bulk explosives since 1994. First generation sensors, employing an isotopic source and NaI(Tl) gamma ray detectors, were deployed by Canadian Forces in 2002 as confirmation sensors on the ILDS teleoperated, vehicle-mounted, multi-sensor anti-tank landmine detection systems. The first generation TNA could detect anti-tank mines buried 10 cm or less in no more than a minute, but deeper mines and those significantly displaced horizontally required considerably longer times. Mines as deep as 30 cm could be detected with long counting times (1000 s). The second generation TNA detector is being developed with a number of improvements aimed at increasing sensitivity and facilitating ease of operation. Among these are an electronic neutron generator to increase sensitivity for deeper and horizontally displaced explosives; LaBr3(Ce) scintillators, to improve time response and energy resolution; improved thermal and electronic stability; improved sensor head geometry to minimize spatial response nonuniformity; and more robust data processing. This improved sensitivity can translate to either decreased counting times, decreased minimum detectable explosive quantities, increased maximum sensor-to-target displacement, or a trade off among all three. Experiments to characterize the performance of the latest generation TNA in detecting buried landmines and IEDs hidden in culverts were conducted during 2011. This paper describes the second generation system. The experimental setup and methodology are detailed and preliminary comparisons between the performance of first and second generation systems are presented.

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