Solar energy incident at the receiver of a solar tower plant, derived from remote sensing: Computation of both DNI and slant path transmittance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elias, Thierry; Ramon, Didier; Garnero, Marie-Agnès; Dubus, Laurent; Bourdil, Charles

2017-06-01

By scattering and absorbing solar radiation, aerosols generate production losses in solar plants. Due to the specific design of solar tower plants, solar radiation is attenuated not only in the atmospheric column but also in the slant path between the heliostats and the receiver. Broadband attenuation by aerosols is estimated in both the column and the slant path for Ouarzazate, Morocco, using spectral measurements of aerosol optical thickness (AOT) collected by AERONET. The proportion of AOT below the tower's height is computed assuming a single uniform aerosol layer of height equal to the boundary layer height computed by ECMWF for the Operational Analysis. The monthly average of the broadband attenuation by aerosols in the slant path was 6.9±3.0% in August 2012 at Ouarzazate, for 1-km distance between the heliostat and the receiver. The slant path attenuation should be added to almost 40% attenuation along the atmospheric column, with aerosols in an approximate 4.7-km aerosol layer. Also, around 1.5% attenuation is caused by Rayleigh and water vapour in the slant path. The monochromatic-broadband extrapolation is validated by comparing computed and observed direct normal irradiance (DNI). DNI observed around noon varied from more than 1000 W/m2 to around 400 W/m2 at Ouarzazate in 2012 because of desert dust plumes transported from North African desert areas.

A CCIR aeronautical mobile satellite report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Davarian, Faramaz; Bishop, Dennis; Rogers, David; Smith, Ernest K.

1989-01-01

Propagation effects in the aeronautical mobile-satellite service differ from those in the fixed-satellite service and other mobile-satellite services because: small antennas are used on aircraft, and the aircraft body may affect the performance of the antenna; high aircraft speeds cause large Doppler spreads; aircraft terminals must accommodate a large dynamic range in transmission and reception; and due to their high speeds, banking maneuvers, and three-dimensional operation, aircraft routinely require exceptionally high integrity of communications, making even short-term propagation effects very important. Data and models specifically required to characterize the path impairments are discussed, which include: tropospheric effects, including gaseous attenuation, cloud and rain attenuation, fog attenuation, refraction and scintillation; surface reflection (multipath) effects; ionospheric effects such as scintillation; and environmental effects (aircraft motion, sea state, land surface type). Aeronautical mobile-satellite systems may operate on a worldwide basis, including propagation paths at low elevation angles. Several measurements of multipath parameters over land and sea were conducted. In some cases, laboratory simulations are used to compare measured data and verify model parameters. The received signals is considered in terms of its possible components: a direct wave subject to atmospheric effects, and a reflected wave, which generally contains mostly a diffuse component.

On the relation between phase path, group path and attenuation in a cold absorbing plasma

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bennett, J. A.; Dyson, P. L.

1978-01-01

Consideration is given to a cold absorbing plasma in which the collision frequency is zero. Expressions are developed which relate the attenuation and the group and phase refractive indices. It is found that because the expressions for the group and phase refractive indices and the imaginary part of the refractive index are closely related in form, the attenuation is related to the difference between the group and phase paths. Numerical calculations have derived approximations which significantly increase the range of known approximations of this type.

Attenuator And Conditioner

DOEpatents

Anderson, Gene R.; Armendariz, Marcelino G.; Carson, Richard F.; Bryan, Robert P.; Duckett, III, Edwin B.; Kemme, Shanalyn Adair; McCormick, Frederick B.; Peterson, David W.

2006-04-04

An apparatus and method of attenuating and/or conditioning optical energy for an optical transmitter, receiver or transceiver module is disclosed. An apparatus for attenuating the optical output of an optoelectronic connector including: a mounting surface; an array of optoelectronic devices having at least a first end; an array of optical elements having at least a first end; the first end of the array of optical elements optically aligned with the first end of the array of optoelectronic devices; an optical path extending from the first end of the array of optoelectronic devices and ending at a second end of the array of optical elements; and an attenuator in the optical path for attenuating the optical energy emitted from the array of optoelectronic devices. Alternatively, a conditioner may be adapted in the optical path for conditioning the optical energy emitted from the array of optoelectronic devices.

Measurement of Attenuation with Airborne and Ground-Based Radar in Convective Storms Over Land Its Microphysical Implications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tian, Lin; Heymsfield, G. M.; Srivastava, R. C.; O'C.Starr, D. (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

Observations by the airborne X-band Doppler radar (EDOP) and the NCAR S-band polarimetric (S-Pol) radar from two field experiments are used to evaluate the surface reference technique (SRT) for measuring the path integrated attenuation (PIA) and to study attenuation in deep convective storms. The EDOP, flying at an altitude of 20 km, uses a nadir beam and a forward pointing beam. It is found that over land, the surface scattering cross-section is highly variable at nadir incidence but relatively stable at forward incidence. It is concluded that measurement by the forward beam provides a viable technique for measuring PIA using the SRT. Vertical profiles of peak attenuation coefficient are derived in two deep convective storms by the dual-wavelength method. Using the measured Doppler velocity, the reflectivities at the two wavelengths, the differential reflectivity and the estimated attenuation coefficients, it is shown that: supercooled drops and (dry) ice particles probably co-existed above the melting level in regions of updraft, that water-coated partially melted ice particles probably contributed to high attenuation below the melting level.

Ultrasound attenuation estimation using backscattered echoes from multiple sources.

PubMed

Bigelow, Timothy A

2008-08-01

The objective of this study was to devise an algorithm that can accurately estimate the attenuation along the propagation path (i.e., the total attenuation) from backscattered echoes. It was shown that the downshift in the center frequency of the backscattered ultrasound echoes compared to echoes obtained in a water bath was calculated to have the form Deltaf=mf(o)+b after normalizing with respect to the source bandwidth where m depends on the correlation length, b depends on the total attenuation, and f(o) is the center frequency of the source as measured from a reference echo. Therefore, the total attenuation can be determined independent of the scatterer correlation length by measuring the downshift in center frequency from multiple sources (i.e., different f(o)) and fitting a line to the measured shifts versus f(o). The intercept of the line gives the total attenuation along the propagation path. The calculations were verified using computer simulations of five spherically focused sources with 50% bandwidths and center frequencies of 6, 8, 10, 12, and 14 MHz. The simulated tissue had Gaussian scattering structures with effective radii of 25 mum placed at a density of 250 mm(3). The attenuation of the tissue was varied from 0.1 to 0.9 dB / cm-MHz. The error in the attenuation along the propagation path ranged from -3.5+/-14.7% for a tissue attenuation of 0.1 dB / cm-MHz to -7.0+/-3.1% for a tissue attenuation of 0.9 dB / cm-MHz demonstrating that the attenuation along the propagation path could be accurately determined using backscattered echoes from multiple sources using the derived algorithm.

On the equivalence of the dual-wavelength and polarimetric equations for estimation of the raindrop size distribution

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Meneghini, Robert; Liao, Liang

2006-01-01

In writing the integral equations for the median mass diameter and particle concentration, or comparable parameters of the raindrop size distribution, it is apparent that when attenuation effects are included, the forms of the equations for polarimetric and dual wavelength radars are identical. In both sets of equations, differences in the backscattering and extinction cross sections appear: in the polarimetric equations, the differences are taken with respect polarization at a fixed frequency while for the dual wavelength equations, the differences are taken with respect to wavelength at a fixed polarization. Because the forms of the equations are the same, the ways in which they can be solved are similar as well. To avoid instabilities in the forward recursion procedure, the equations can be expressed in the form of a final-value. Solving the equations in this way traditionally has required estimates of the path attenuations to the final gate: either the attenuations at horizontal and vertical polarizations at the same frequency or attenuations at two frequencies with the same polarization. This has been done for dual-frequency (air/spaceborne case) and polarimetric radars by the respective use of the surface reference technique and the differential phase shift. An alternative to solving the constrained version of the equations is an iterative procedure recently proposed in which independent estimates of path attenuation are not required. Although the procedure has limitations, it appears to be quite useful. Simulations of the retrievals help clarify the relationship between the constrained and unconstrained approaches and their application to the polarimetric and dual-wavelength equations.

Handbook for the estimation of microwave propagation effects: Link calculations for earth-space paths (path loss and noise estimation)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Crane, R. K.; Blood, D. W.

1979-01-01

A single model for a standard of comparison for other models when dealing with rain attenuation problems in system design and experimentation is proposed. Refinements to the Global Rain Production Model are incorporated. Path loss and noise estimation procedures as the basic input to systems design for earth-to-space microwave links operating at frequencies from 1 to 300 GHz are provided. Topics covered include gaseous absorption, attenuation by rain, ionospheric and tropospheric scintillation, low elevation angle effects, radome attenuation, diversity schemes, link calculation, and receiver noise emission by atmospheric gases, rain, and antenna contributions.

Prediction of slant path rain attenuation statistics at various locations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goldhirsh, J.

1977-01-01

The paper describes a method for predicting slant path attenuation statistics at arbitrary locations for variable frequencies and path elevation angles. The method involves the use of median reflectivity factor-height profiles measured with radar as well as the use of long-term point rain rate data and assumed or measured drop size distributions. The attenuation coefficient due to cloud liquid water in the presence of rain is also considered. Absolute probability fade distributions are compared for eight cases: Maryland (15 GHz), Texas (30 GHz), Slough, England (19 and 37 GHz), Fayetteville, North Carolina (13 and 18 GHz), and Cambridge, Massachusetts (13 and 18 GHz).

A 15.3 GHz satellite-to-ground diversity propagation experiment using a terminal separation of 4 kilometers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Grimm, K. R.; Hodge, D. B.

1971-01-01

The performance of a path diversity satellite-to-ground millimeter wave link with two ground terminals separated by 4 km is discussed. At this separation distance the duration of fades below 6 dB was decreased by at least a factor of 10 when using path diversity and the cumulative crosscorrelation between the attenuations observed at the two terminals during rain events was approximately 0.45. Narrow beam radiometers directed along the propagation paths were also utilized to relate the path radiometric temperature to the path attenuation. An analysis of downlink propagation data for generating diversity link performance statistics is included.

A quorum sensing-independent path to stumpy development in Trypanosoma brucei

PubMed Central

Zimmermann, Henriette; Batram, Christopher; Kramer, Susanne; Janzen, Christian J.; Engstler, Markus

2017-01-01

For persistent infections of the mammalian host, African trypanosomes limit their population size by quorum sensing of the parasite-excreted stumpy induction factor (SIF), which induces development to the tsetse-infective stumpy stage. We found that besides this cell density-dependent mechanism, there exists a second path to the stumpy stage that is linked to antigenic variation, the main instrument of parasite virulence. The expression of a second variant surface glycoprotein (VSG) leads to transcriptional attenuation of the VSG expression site (ES) and immediate development to tsetse fly infective stumpy parasites. This path is independent of SIF and solely controlled by the transcriptional status of the ES. In pleomorphic trypanosomes varying degrees of ES-attenuation result in phenotypic plasticity. While full ES-attenuation causes irreversible stumpy development, milder attenuation may open a time window for rescuing an unsuccessful antigenic switch, a scenario that so far has not been considered as important for parasite survival. PMID:28394929

A simple model for the estimation of rain-induced attenuation along earth-space paths at millimeter wavelengths

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stutzman, W. L.; Dishman, W. K.

1982-01-01

A simple attenuation model (SAM) is presented for estimating rain-induced attenuation along an earth-space path. The rain model uses an effective spatial rain distribution which is uniform for low rain rates and which has an exponentially shaped horizontal rain profile for high rain rates. When compared to other models, the SAM performed well in the important region of low percentages of time, and had the lowest percent standard deviation of all percent time values tested.

Radiometric Measurements of Slant Path Attenuation in the V/W Bands

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-09-01

AUTHOR(S) George Brost , Kevin Magde, William Cook 5d. PROJECT NUMBER T2WB 5e. TASK NUMBER IN 5f. WORK UNIT NUMBER HO 7. PERFORMING...Measurements of Slant-Path Attenuation in the V/W Bands G. Brost , K. Magde, and W. Cook Air Force Research Laboratory, 525 Brooks Rd, Rome, NY, USA...slant path statistics at frequencies above 50 GHz. REFERENCES [1] G. Brost , W. Cook, and W. Lipe,” On the modeling and prediction of

A Three-Parameter Inversion of the Drop Size Distribution Using NASA/TRMM Microwave Link Data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rincon, Rafael F.; Lang, Roger H.; Meneghini, Robert

2003-01-01

Attenuation measurements at 25 and 38 GHz performed with the NASA/TRMM Microwave Link provide information about the drop size distribution (DSD) along the propagation path. Additional path-average measurements along the Link path, such as a third attenuation measurement or the rain rate from well-calibrated raingauges, can provide further DSD information. This paper explores an inversion procedure for determining simultaneously three parameters of a gamma DSD by using three measurements. Also, some preliminary results obtained using Link data are presented.

Measurement of Attenuation with Airborne and Ground-Based Radar in Convective Storms Over Land and Its Microphysical Implications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tian, Lin; Heymsfield, G. M.; Srivastava, R. C.; Starr, D. OC. (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

Observations by the airborne X-band Doppler radar (EDOP) and the NCAR S-band polarimetric (S-POL) radar from two field experiments are used to evaluate the Surface ref'ercnce technique (SRT) for measuring the path integrated attenuation (PIA) and to study attenuation in deep convective storms. The EDOP, flying at an altitude of 20 km, uses a nadir beam and a forward pointing beam. It is found that over land, the surface scattering cross-section is highly variable at nadir incidence but relatively stable at forward incidence. It is concluded that measurement by the forward beam provides a viable technique for measuring PIA using the SRT. Vertical profiles of peak attenuation coefficient are derived in vxo deep convective storms by the dual-wavelength method. Using the measured Doppler velocity, the reflectivities at. the two wavelengths, the differential reflectivity and the estimated attenuation coefficients, it is shown that: supercooled drops and dry ice particles probably co-existed above the melting level in regions of updraft, that water-coated partially melted ice particles probably contributed to high attenuation below the melting level, and that the data are not readil explained in terms of a gamma function raindrop size distribution.

Slant path rain attenuation and path diversity statistics obtained through radar modeling of rain structure

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goldhirsh, J.

1984-01-01

Single and joint terminal slant path attenuation statistics at frequencies of 28.56 and 19.04 GHz have been derived, employing a radar data base obtained over a three-year period at Wallops Island, VA. Statistics were independently obtained for path elevation angles of 20, 45, and 90 deg for purposes of examining how elevation angles influences both single-terminal and joint probability distributions. Both diversity gains and autocorrelation function dependence on site spacing and elevation angles were determined employing the radar modeling results. Comparisons with other investigators are presented. An independent path elevation angle prediction technique was developed and demonstrated to fit well with the radar-derived single and joint terminal radar-derived cumulative fade distributions at various elevation angles.

The Study of Rain Specific Attenuation for the Prediction of Satellite Propagation in Malaysia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mandeep, J. S.; Ng, Y. Y.; Abdullah, H.; Abdullah, M.

2010-06-01

Specific attenuation is the fundamental quantity in the calculation of rain attenuation for terrestrial path and slant paths representing as rain attenuation per unit distance (dB/km). Specific attenuation is an important element in developing the predicted rain attenuation model. This paper deals with the empirical determination of the power law coefficients which allow calculating the specific attenuation in dB/km from the knowledge of the rain rate in mm/h. The main purpose of the paper is to obtain the coefficients of k and α of power law relationship between specific attenuation. Three years (from 1st January 2006 until 31st December 2008) rain gauge and beacon data taken from USM, Nibong Tebal have been used to do the empirical procedure analysis of rain specific attenuation. The data presented are semi-empirical in nature. A year-to-year variation of the coefficients has been indicated and the empirical measured data was compared with ITU-R provided regression coefficient. The result indicated that the USM empirical measured data was significantly vary from ITU-R predicted value. Hence, ITU-R recommendation for regression coefficients of rain specific attenuation is not suitable for predicting rain attenuation at Malaysia.

ACTS Ka-band Propagation Research in a Spatially Diversified Network with Two USAT Ground Stations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kalu, Alex; Acousta, R.; Durand, S.; Emrich, Carol; Ventre, G.; Wilson, W.

1999-01-01

Congestion in the radio spectrum below 18 GHz is stimulating greater interest in the Ka (20/30 GHz) frequency band. Transmission at these shorter wavelengths is greatly influenced by rain resulting in signal attenuation and decreased link availability. The size and projected cost of Ultra Small Aperture Terminals (USATS) make site diversity methodology attractive for rain fade compensation. Separation distances between terminals must be small to be of interest commercially. This study measures diversity gain at a separation distance <5 km and investigates utilization of S-band weather radar reflectivity in predicting diversity gain. Two USAT ground stations, separated by 2.43 km for spatial diversity, received a continuous Ka-band tone sent from NASA Glenn Research Center via the Advanced Communications Technology Satellite (ACTS) steerable antenna beam. Received signal power and rainfall were measured, and Weather Surveillance Radar-1998 Doppler (WSR-88D) data were obtained as a measure of precipitation along the USAT-to-ACTS slant path. Signal attenuation was compared for the two sites, and diversity gain was calculated for fades measured on eleven days. Correlation of WSR-88D S-band reflectivity with measured Ka-band attenuation consisted of locating radar volume elements along each slant path, converting reflectivity to Ka-band attenuation with rain rate calculation as an intermediate step. Specific attenuation for each associated path segment was summed, resulting in total attenuation along the slant path. Derived Ka-band attenuation did not correlate closely with empirical data (r = 0.239), but a measured signal fade could be matched with an increase in radar reflectivity in all fade events. Applying a low pass filter to radar reflectivity prior to deriving Ka-band attenuation improved the correlation between measured and derived signal attenuation (r = 0.733). Results indicate that site diversity at small separation distances is a viable means of rain fade compensation, and that existing models underestimate diversity gain for a subtropical climate such as Florida. Also, filtered WSR-88D reflectivity can be used for optimizing diversity terminal placement by comparing derived Ka- band attenuation between the diversity sites.

Application of non-attenuating frequency radars for prediction of rain attenuation and space diversity performance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goldhirsh, J.

1979-01-01

In order to establish transmitter power and receiver sensitivity levels at frequencies above 10 GHz, the designers of earth-satellite telecommunication systems are interested in cumulative rain fade statistics at variable path orientations, elevation angles, climatological regions, and frequencies. They are also interested in establishing optimum space diversity performance parameters. In this work are examined the many elements involved in the employment of single non-attenuating frequency radars for arriving at the desired information. The elements examined include radar techniques and requirements, phenomenological assumptions, path attenation formulations and procedures, as well as error budgeting and calibration analysis. Included are the pertinent results of previous investigators who have used radar for rain attenuation modeling. Suggestions are made for improving present methods.

A New Understanding for the Rain Rate retrieval of Attenuating Radars Measurement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koner, P.; Battaglia, A.; Simmer, C.

2009-04-01

The retrieval of rain rate from the attenuated radar (e.g. Cloud Profiling Radar on board of CloudSAT in orbit since June 2006) is a challenging problem. ĹEcuyer and Stephens [1] underlined this difficulty (for rain rates larger than 1.5 mm/h) and suggested the need of additional information (like path-integrated attenuations (PIA) derived from surface reference techniques or precipitation water path estimated from co-located passive microwave radiometer) to constrain the retrieval. It is generally discussed based on the optimal estimation theory that there are no solutions without constraining the problem in a case of visible attenuation because there is no enough information content to solve the problem. However, when the problem is constrained by the additional measurement of PIA, there is a reasonable solution. This raises the spontaneous question: Is all information enclosed in this additional measurement? This also contradicts with the information theory because one measurement can introduce only one degree of freedom in the retrieval. Why is one degree of freedom so important in the above problem? This question cannot be explained using the estimation and information theories of OEM. On the other hand, Koner and Drummond [2] argued that the OEM is basically a regularization method, where a-priori covariance is used as a stabilizer and the regularization strength is determined by the choices of the a-priori and error covariance matrices. The regularization is required for the reduction of the condition number of Jacobian, which drives the noise injection from the measurement and inversion spaces to the state space in an ill-posed inversion. In this work, the above mentioned question will be discussed based on the regularization theory, error mitigation and eigenvalue mathematics. References 1. L'Ecuyer TS and Stephens G. An estimation based precipitation retrieval algorithm for attenuating radar. J. Appl. Met., 2002, 41, 272-85. 2. Koner PK, Drummond JR. A comparison of regularization techniques for atmospheric trace gases retrievals. JQSRT 2008; 109:514-26.

Speech Understanding with a New Implant Technology: A Comparative Study with a New Nonskin Penetrating Baha System

PubMed Central

Caversaccio, Marco

2014-01-01

Objective. To compare hearing and speech understanding between a new, nonskin penetrating Baha system (Baha Attract) to the current Baha system using a skin-penetrating abutment. Methods. Hearing and speech understanding were measured in 16 experienced Baha users. The transmission path via the abutment was compared to a simulated Baha Attract transmission path by attaching the implantable magnet to the abutment and then by adding a sample of artificial skin and the external parts of the Baha Attract system. Four different measurements were performed: bone conduction thresholds directly through the sound processor (BC Direct), aided sound field thresholds, aided speech understanding in quiet, and aided speech understanding in noise. Results. The simulated Baha Attract transmission path introduced an attenuation starting from approximately 5 dB at 1000 Hz, increasing to 20–25 dB above 6000 Hz. However, aided sound field threshold shows smaller differences and aided speech understanding in quiet and in noise does not differ significantly between the two transmission paths. Conclusion. The Baha Attract system transmission path introduces predominately high frequency attenuation. This attenuation can be partially compensated by adequate fitting of the speech processor. No significant decrease in speech understanding in either quiet or in noise was found. PMID:25140314

Attenuation analysis of long-haul NLOS atmospheric optical scattering communication

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Shihua; Wang, Jingyuan; Xu, Zhiyong; Song, Chao; Wang, Rong; Chen, Yiwang; Zhao, Jiyong; Wei, Yimei

2016-06-01

The attenuation characteristics of ultraviolet (UV) and infrared transmitting in the atmosphere is analyzed, when long-haul Non-Line-of-Sight (NLOS) optical scattering communication is considered. The effects of Rayleigh and Mie scattering to link performance are presented. Under given geometric configurations, a critical range RC is found. When communication range is shorter than RC, the attenuation of UV is lower than that of infrared. But the path loss of UV increases rapidly, while the path loss of infrared increases much slower. When communication range is longer than RC, the attenuation of UV is higher than that of infrared. Numerical values of RC under different geometries are analyzed. It is also indicated that, under arbitrary geometric configurations, the impact of the Rayleigh scattering to infrared scattering communication is weak, but to UV scattering, the Rayleigh scattering effect cannot be ignored.

HiRadProp: High-Frequency Modeling and Prediction of Tropospheric Radiopropagation Parameters from Ground-Based-Multi-Channel Radiometric Measurements between Ka and W Band

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-05-11

new physically -based prediction models for all-weather path attenuation estimation at Ka, V and W band from multi- channel microwave radiometric data...of new physically -based prediction models for all-weather path attenuation estimation at Ka, V and W band from multi- channel microwave radiometric...the medium behavior at these frequency bands from both a physical and a statistical point of view (e.g., [5]-[7]). However, these campaigns are

Seismic Attenuation of Teleseismic Body Waves in Cascadia, Measured on the Amphibious Array

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eilon, Z.; Abers, G. A.

2015-12-01

Fundamental questions remain about the nature of the asthenosphere, including its dynamical relationship to overlying lithosphere, melt content, and entrainment in subduction zones. We examine the evolution of this low-velocity, highly attenuating layer using data from the Cascadia Initiative's Amphibious Array, which provides unprecedented coverage of an oceanic plate from ridge crest to trench to sub-arc. Our study extends the suite of measurements achievable with OBS data, augmenting traditional travel time analysis with integrated attenuation data that are a powerful tool for imaging melt/fluids and the variation of asthenospheric character with age. Cooling models, coupled with experimentally-derived anelastic scaling relationships, indicate that thermal gradients should cause appreciable decrease in attenuation of teleseismic body waves with increasing age. This long-wavelength cooling trend may be perturbed by highly attenuating melt or volatiles concentrated at the ridge axis or beneath the Cascades arc, depending on melt fraction and pore geometry. Attenuation beyond the trench should be a strong function of the fate of asthenospheric entrainment beneath subducted plates, with implications for mass transfer to the deep mantle as well as recent models of sub-slab anisotropy. The Amphibious Array, with <70 km spacing of OBS and on-land broadband seismometers deployed between 2011 and 2015, provides a dataset of ~1 x 105 arrivals from ~700 Mw>6.0 teleseismic earthquakes. We use a spectral ratio method to compute differential attenuation (Δt*) from body wave teleseisms recorded at OBS and land stations, allowing us to estimate path-integrated quality factor in the upper mantle. Preliminary results reveal variations of ~3 s in differential travel time and >0.5 s in ΔtS* across the 0-10 Ma oceanic plate, demonstrating the strong thermal control on anelasticity. Large values of Δt* observed east of the trench may indicate entrainment of highly attenuating asthenosphere during subduction, although more work is required to categorize and remove the signal of the overriding plate. This work complements previous studies using surface waves and contributes to our developing understanding of anelastic controls on seismic parameters by probing the Earth in a different frequency range.

Millimeter wave attenuation prediction using a piecewise uniform rain rate model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Persinger, R. R.; Stutzman, W. L.; Bostian, C. W.; Castle, R. E., Jr.

1980-01-01

A piecewise uniform rain rate distribution model is introduced as a quasi-physical model of real rain along earth-space millimeter wave propagation paths. It permits calculation of the total attenuation from specific attenuation in a simple fashion. The model predications are verified by comparison with direct attenuation measurements for several frequencies, elevation angles, and locations. Also, coupled with the Rice-Holmberg rain rate model, attenuation statistics are predicated from rainfall accumulation data.

Integral transforms of the quantum mechanical path integral: Hit function and path-averaged potential.

PubMed

Edwards, James P; Gerber, Urs; Schubert, Christian; Trejo, Maria Anabel; Weber, Axel

2018-04-01

We introduce two integral transforms of the quantum mechanical transition kernel that represent physical information about the path integral. These transforms can be interpreted as probability distributions on particle trajectories measuring respectively the relative contribution to the path integral from paths crossing a given spatial point (the hit function) and the likelihood of values of the line integral of the potential along a path in the ensemble (the path-averaged potential).

Integral transforms of the quantum mechanical path integral: Hit function and path-averaged potential

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Edwards, James P.; Gerber, Urs; Schubert, Christian; Trejo, Maria Anabel; Weber, Axel

2018-04-01

We introduce two integral transforms of the quantum mechanical transition kernel that represent physical information about the path integral. These transforms can be interpreted as probability distributions on particle trajectories measuring respectively the relative contribution to the path integral from paths crossing a given spatial point (the hit function) and the likelihood of values of the line integral of the potential along a path in the ensemble (the path-averaged potential).

Standard Deviation of Spatially-Averaged Surface Cross Section Data from the TRMM Precipitation Radar

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Meneghini, Robert; Jones, Jeffrey A.

2010-01-01

We investigate the spatial variability of the normalized radar cross section of the surface (NRCS or Sigma(sup 0)) derived from measurements of the TRMM Precipitation Radar (PR) for the period from 1998 to 2009. The purpose of the study is to understand the way in which the sample standard deviation of the Sigma(sup 0) data changes as a function of spatial resolution, incidence angle, and surface type (land/ocean). The results have implications regarding the accuracy by which the path integrated attenuation from precipitation can be inferred by the use of surface scattering properties.

Homing by path integration when a locomotion trajectory crosses itself.

PubMed

Yamamoto, Naohide; Meléndez, Jayleen A; Menzies, Derek T

2014-01-01

Path integration is a process with which navigators derive their current position and orientation by integrating self-motion signals along a locomotion trajectory. It has been suggested that path integration becomes disproportionately erroneous when the trajectory crosses itself. However, there is a possibility that this previous finding was confounded by effects of the length of a traveled path and the amount of turns experienced along the path, two factors that are known to affect path integration performance. The present study was designed to investigate whether the crossover of a locomotion trajectory truly increases errors of path integration. In an experiment, blindfolded human navigators were guided along four paths that varied in their lengths and turns, and attempted to walk directly back to the beginning of the paths. Only one of the four paths contained a crossover. Results showed that errors yielded from the path containing the crossover were not always larger than those observed in other paths, and the errors were attributed solely to the effects of longer path lengths or greater degrees of turns. These results demonstrated that path crossover does not always cause significant disruption in path integration processes. Implications of the present findings for models of path integration are discussed.

Time‐lapse imaging of saline‐tracer transport in fractured rock using difference‐attenuation radar tomography

USGS Publications Warehouse

Day-Lewis, Frederick D.; Lane, John W.; Harris, Jerry M.; Gorelick, Steven M.

2003-01-01

Accurate characterization of fractured‐rock aquifer heterogeneity remains one of the most challenging and important problems in groundwater hydrology. We demonstrate a promising strategy to identify preferential flow paths in fractured rock using a combination of geophysical monitoring and conventional hydrogeologic tests. Cross‐well difference‐attenuation ground‐penetrating radar was used to monitor saline‐tracer migration in an experiment at the U.S. Geological Survey Fractured Rock Hydrology Research Site in Grafton County, New Hampshire. Radar data sets were collected every 10 min in three adjoining planes for 5 hours during each of 12 tracer tests. An innovative inversion method accounts for data acquisition times and temporal changes in attenuation during data collection. The inverse algorithm minimizes a combination of two functions. The first is the sum of weighted squared data residuals. Second is a measure of solution complexity based on an a priori space‐time covariance function, subject to constraints that limit radar‐attenuation changes to regions of the tomograms traversed by high difference‐attenuation ray paths. The time series of tomograms indicate relative tracer concentrations and tracer arrival times in the image planes; from these we infer the presence and location of a preferential flow path within a previously identified zone of transmissive fractures. These results provide new insights into solute channeling and the nature of aquifer heterogeneity at the site.

Inner Core Anisotropy in Attenuation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, W.; Wen, L.

2004-12-01

It is now well established that the compressional velocity in the Earth's inner core varies in both direction and geographic location. The compressional waves travel faster along the polar directions than along the equatorial directions. Such polar-equatorial difference is interpreted as a result of inner core anisotropy in velocity (with a magnitude of about 3%) and such anisotropy appears to be stronger in the ``western hemisphere" (180oW -40oE) than in the ``eastern hemisphere" (40oE-180oE). Along the equatorial paths, the compressional velocity also exhibits a hemispheric pattern with the eastern hemisphere being about 1% higher than the western hemisphere. Possible explanations for the causes of the velocity in anisotropy and the hemispheric difference in velocity along the equatorial paths include different geometric inclusions of melt or different alignments of iron crystals which are known to be anisotropic in velocities. Here, we report an observation of ubiquitous correlation between small (large) amplitude and fast (slow) travel time of the PKIKP waves sampling the top 300 km of the inner core. We study this correlation by jointly analyzing the differential travel times and amplitude ratios of the PKiKP-PKIKP and the PKPbc-PKIKP phases recorded by the Global Seismographic Network (1990-2001), various regional seismic networks (BANJO, BLSP, FREESIA, GEOFON, GEOSCOPE, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz, MEDNET, and OHP), and several PASSCAL Networks deployed in Alaska and Antarctica (XE: 1999-2001, XF: 1995-1996, and YI: 1998-1999). Our dataset consists of 310 PKiKP-PKIKP and 240 PKPbc-PKIKP phases, selected from a total of more than 16,000 observations. PKIKP waves exhibit relatively smaller amplitudes for those sampling the eastern hemisphere along the equatorial paths and even smaller amplitudes for those sampling the polar paths in the western hemisphere. One simple explanation for the velocity-attenuation relation is that the inner core is anisotropic in attenuation and the direction of high attenuation correlates with that of high P velocity. Different anisotropic behaviors in velocity and attenuation can be best explained by different alignments of iron crystals under the hypothesis that iron crystals are anisotropic in both velocity and attenuation and their axes of high P velocity correspond to those of high attenuation.

Seismic Attenuation, Event Discrimination, Magnitude and Yield Estimation, and Capability Analysis

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-09-01

waves are subject to path-dependent variations in amplitudes. We see geographic similarities between the crustal shear-wave attenuation and the...either Sn or Lg depending on tectonic region, distance, and frequency. Over the past year, we have made great progress on the calibration of surface...between the crustal shear-wave attenuation and the results from the coda attenuation. Calibration of coda in the Middle East and other areas is

Quantum gravity in timeless configuration space

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gomes, Henrique

2017-12-01

On the path towards quantum gravity we find friction between temporal relations in quantum mechanics (QM) (where they are fixed and field-independent), and in general relativity (where they are field-dependent and dynamic). This paper aims to attenuate that friction, by encoding gravity in the timeless configuration space of spatial fields with dynamics given by a path integral. The framework demands that boundary conditions for this path integral be uniquely given, but unlike other approaches where they are prescribed—such as the no-boundary and the tunneling proposals—here I postulate basic principles to identify boundary conditions in a large class of theories. Uniqueness arises only if a reduced configuration space can be defined and if it has a profoundly asymmetric fundamental structure. These requirements place strong restrictions on the field and symmetry content of theories encompassed here; shape dynamics is one such theory. When these constraints are met, any emerging theory will have a Born rule given merely by a particular volume element built from the path integral in (reduced) configuration space. Also as in other boundary proposals, Time, including space-time, emerges as an effective concept; valid for certain curves in configuration space but not assumed from the start. When some such notion of time becomes available, conservation of (positive) probability currents ensues. I show that, in the appropriate limits, a Schrödinger equation dictates the evolution of weakly coupled source fields on a classical gravitational background. Due to the asymmetry of reduced configuration space, these probabilities and currents avoid a known difficulty of standard WKB approximations for Wheeler DeWitt in minisuperspace: the selection of a unique Hamilton–Jacobi solution to serve as background. I illustrate these constructions with a simple example of a full quantum gravitational theory (i.e. not in minisuperspace) for which the formalism is applicable, and give a formula for calculating gravitational semi-classical relative probabilities in it.

Combining path integration and remembered landmarks when navigating without vision.

PubMed

Kalia, Amy A; Schrater, Paul R; Legge, Gordon E

2013-01-01

This study investigated the interaction between remembered landmark and path integration strategies for estimating current location when walking in an environment without vision. We asked whether observers navigating without vision only rely on path integration information to judge their location, or whether remembered landmarks also influence judgments. Participants estimated their location in a hallway after viewing a target (remembered landmark cue) and then walking blindfolded to the same or a conflicting location (path integration cue). We found that participants averaged remembered landmark and path integration information when they judged that both sources provided congruent information about location, which resulted in more precise estimates compared to estimates made with only path integration. In conclusion, humans integrate remembered landmarks and path integration in a gated fashion, dependent on the congruency of the information. Humans can flexibly combine information about remembered landmarks with path integration cues while navigating without visual information.

Combining Path Integration and Remembered Landmarks When Navigating without Vision

PubMed Central

Kalia, Amy A.; Schrater, Paul R.; Legge, Gordon E.

2013-01-01

This study investigated the interaction between remembered landmark and path integration strategies for estimating current location when walking in an environment without vision. We asked whether observers navigating without vision only rely on path integration information to judge their location, or whether remembered landmarks also influence judgments. Participants estimated their location in a hallway after viewing a target (remembered landmark cue) and then walking blindfolded to the same or a conflicting location (path integration cue). We found that participants averaged remembered landmark and path integration information when they judged that both sources provided congruent information about location, which resulted in more precise estimates compared to estimates made with only path integration. In conclusion, humans integrate remembered landmarks and path integration in a gated fashion, dependent on the congruency of the information. Humans can flexibly combine information about remembered landmarks with path integration cues while navigating without visual information. PMID:24039742

TECHNIQUES AND APPROACHES TO EVALUATE THE NATURAL ATTENUATION OF MTBE

EPA Science Inventory

Natural anaerobic biodegradation is the most important processes controlling natural attenuation of MTBE along a flow path. However, natural biological degradation has been particularly difficult to document at field scale. Biodegradation of the BTEX compounds produce the same ...

Attenuation of concentration fluctuations of water vapor and other trace gases in turbulent tube flow

Treesearch

W. J. Massman; A. Ibrom

2008-01-01

Recent studies with closed-path eddy covariance (EC) systems have indicated that the attenuation of fluctuations of water vapor concentration is dependent upon ambient relative humidity, presumably due to sorption/desorption of water molecules at the interior surface of the tube. Previous studies of EC-related tube attenuation effects have either not considered this...

An empirical relationship for path diversity gain. [earth-space microwave propagation attenuation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hodge, D. B.

1976-01-01

Existing 15.3 and 16 GHz path diversity gain data for earth-space propagation paths are used to generate an empirical relationship for diversity gain as a function of terminal separation distance and single terminal fade depth. The agreement between the resulting closed form expression and the data is within 0.75 dB in all cases.

2D beam hardening correction for micro-CT of immersed hard tissue

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Davis, Graham; Mills, David

2016-10-01

Beam hardening artefacts arise in tomography and microtomography with polychromatic sources. Typically, specimens appear to be less dense in the center of reconstructions because as the path length through the specimen increases, so the X-ray spectrum is shifted towards higher energies due to the preferential absorption of low energy photons. Various approaches have been taken to reduce or correct for these artefacts. Pre-filtering the X-ray beam with a thin metal sheet will reduce soft energy X-rays and thus narrow the spectrum. Correction curves can be applied to the projections prior to reconstruction which transform measured attenuation with polychromatic radiation to predicted attenuation with monochromatic radiation. These correction curves can be manually selected, iteratively derived from reconstructions (this generally works where density is assumed to be constant) or derived from a priori information about the X-ray spectrum and specimen composition. For hard tissue specimens, the latter approach works well if the composition is reasonably homogeneous. In the case of an immersed or embedded specimen (e.g., tooth or bone) the relative proportions of mineral and "organic" (including medium and plastic container) species varies considerably for different ray paths and simple beam hardening correction does not give accurate results. By performing an initial reconstruction, the total path length through the container can be determined. By modelling the X-ray properties of the specimen, a 2D correction transform can then be created such that the predicted monochromatic attenuation can be derived as a function of both the measured polychromatic attenuation and the container path length.

A two-component rain model for the prediction of attenuation statistics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Crane, R. K.

1982-01-01

A two-component rain model has been developed for calculating attenuation statistics. In contrast to most other attenuation prediction models, the two-component model calculates the occurrence probability for volume cells or debris attenuation events. The model performed significantly better than the International Radio Consultative Committee model when used for predictions on earth-satellite paths. It is expected that the model will have applications in modeling the joint statistics required for space diversity system design, the statistics of interference due to rain scatter at attenuating frequencies, and the duration statistics for attenuation events.

Path attenuation statistics influenced by orientation of rain cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goldhirsh, J.

1976-01-01

The influence of path azimuth on fade and space diversity statistics associated with propagation along earth-satellite paths at a frequency of 18 GHz is examined. A radar rain reflectivity data base obtained during the summer of 1973 is injected into a modeling program and the attenuation along parallel earth-satellite paths are obtained for a conglomeration of azimuths. Statistics are separated into two groupings: one pertaining to earth-satellite paths oriented in the northwest-southeast and the other in the northeast-southwest quadrants using a fixed elevation angle of 45 deg. The latter case shows fading to be greater with a degraded space diversity suggesting rain cells to be elongated along this direction. Cell dimensions are analyzed for both sets of quadrants and are found to have average values larger by 2 km in the northeast-southwest quadrants; a result consistent with the fade and space diversity results. Examination of the wind direction for the 14 rain days of data analyzed shows good correlation of the average or median wind directions with the directions of maximum fading and degraded space diversity.

USING BIOPLUME IV TO MODEL SUSTAINABILITY OF MNA

EPA Science Inventory

At most sites where Monitored Natural Attenuation (MNA) has been selected as a remedy for ground water contamination, dilution and dispersion are not the primary mechanisms responsible for attenuation along the flow path in the aquifer. In most aquifers, dilution and dispersion ...

Path integration: effect of curved path complexity and sensory system on blindfolded walking.

PubMed

Koutakis, Panagiotis; Mukherjee, Mukul; Vallabhajosula, Srikant; Blanke, Daniel J; Stergiou, Nicholas

2013-02-01

Path integration refers to the ability to integrate continuous information of the direction and distance traveled by the system relative to the origin. Previous studies have investigated path integration through blindfolded walking along simple paths such as straight line and triangles. However, limited knowledge exists regarding the role of path complexity in path integration. Moreover, little is known about how information from different sensory input systems (like vision and proprioception) contributes to accurate path integration. The purpose of the current study was to investigate how sensory information and curved path complexity affect path integration. Forty blindfolded participants had to accurately reproduce a curved path and return to the origin. They were divided into four groups that differed in the curved path, circle (simple) or figure-eight (complex), and received either visual (previously seen) or proprioceptive (previously guided) information about the path before they reproduced it. The dependent variables used were average trajectory error, walking speed, and distance traveled. The results indicated that (a) both groups that walked on a circular path and both groups that received visual information produced greater accuracy in reproducing the path. Moreover, the performance of the group that received proprioceptive information and later walked on a figure-eight path was less accurate than their corresponding circular group. The groups that had the visual information also walked faster compared to the group that had proprioceptive information. Results of the current study highlight the roles of different sensory inputs while performing blindfolded walking for path integration. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The multi-parameter remote measurement of rainfall

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Atlas, D.; Ulbrich, C. W.; Meneghini, R.

1982-01-01

The measurement of rainfall by remote sensors is investigated. One parameter radar rainfall measurement is limited because both reflectivity and rain rate are dependent on at least two parameters of the drop size distribution (DSD), i.e., representative raindrop size and number concentration. A generalized rain parameter diagram is developed which includes a third distribution parameter, the breadth of the DSD, to better specify rain rate and all possible remote variables. Simulations show the improvement in accuracy attainable through the use of combinations of two and three remote measurables. The spectrum of remote measurables is reviewed. These include path integrated techniques of radiometry and of microwave and optical attenuation.

Differential pencil beam dose computation model for photons.

PubMed

Mohan, R; Chui, C; Lidofsky, L

1986-01-01

Differential pencil beam (DPB) is defined as the dose distribution relative to the position of the first collision, per unit collision density, for a monoenergetic pencil beam of photons in an infinite homogeneous medium of unit density. We have generated DPB dose distribution tables for a number of photon energies in water using the Monte Carlo method. The three-dimensional (3D) nature of the transport of photons and electrons is automatically incorporated in DPB dose distributions. Dose is computed by evaluating 3D integrals of DPB dose. The DPB dose computation model has been applied to calculate dose distributions for 60Co and accelerator beams. Calculations for the latter are performed using energy spectra generated with the Monte Carlo program. To predict dose distributions near the beam boundaries defined by the collimation system as well as blocks, we utilize the angular distribution of incident photons. Inhomogeneities are taken into account by attenuating the primary photon fluence exponentially utilizing the average total linear attenuation coefficient of intervening tissue, by multiplying photon fluence by the linear attenuation coefficient to yield the number of collisions in the scattering volume, and by scaling the path between the scattering volume element and the computation point by an effective density.

USING BIOPLUME IV TO MODEL SUSTAINABILITY OF MNA (ABSTRACT ONLY)

EPA Science Inventory

At most sites where Monitored Natural Attenuation (MNA) has been selected as a remedy for ground water contamination, dilution and dispersion are not the primary mechanisms responsible for attenuation along the flow path in the aquifer. In most aquifers, dilution and dispersion ...

In-line quincke tube muffler

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Patrick, William P.; Bryant, Rebecca S.; Greenwald, Larry E.

2002-05-01

A unique low-pressure-drop muffler is described which has been designed to attenuate low frequency tonal noise in ducts. Flow through the muffler is divided into two noncommunicating paths in the cylindrical configuration which was designed, built, and tested. Half of the flow is ducted through a straight central annulus and the other half is ducted through a partitioned outer annulus which directs the flow in a spiral flow pattern around the inner annulus. Thus the outer flow has a longer path length and the sound within the outer annulus is phase-delayed relative to the inner flow causing destructive interference between the inner and outer waves with resulting strong attenuation at the tuned frequencies. A procedure will be described for designing a muffler (with flow) to produce high attenuation at the fundamental noise tone and all harmonics (up to the first cross mode). Results will be presented which show that the muffler achieved over 20 dB attenuation for the first five harmonics of the incident noise in a flowing duct.

Cumulative slant path rain attenuation associated with COMSTAR beacon at 28.56 GHz for Wallops Island, Virginia

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goldhirsh, J.

1978-01-01

Yearly, monthly, and time of day fade statistics are presented and characterized. A 19.04 GHz yearly fade distribution, corresponding to a second COMSTAR beacon frequency, is predicted using the concept of effective path length, disdrometer, and rain rate results. The yearly attenuation and rain rate distributions follow with good approximation log normal variations for most fade and rain rate levels. Attenuations were exceeded for the longest and shortest periods of times for all fades in August and February, respectively. The eight hour time period showing the maximum and minimum number of minutes over the year for which fades exceeded 12 db were approximately between 1600 to 2400, and 0400 to 1200 hours, respectively. In employing the predictive method for obtaining the 19.04 GHz fade distribution, it is demonstrated theoretically that the ratio of attenuations at two frequencies is minimally dependent of raindrop size distribution providing these frequencies are not widely separated.

In-Body to On-Body Ultrawideband Propagation Model Derived From Measurements in Living Animals.

PubMed

Floor, Pål Anders; Chávez-Santiago, Raúl; Brovoll, Sverre; Aardal, Øyvind; Bergsland, Jacob; Grymyr, Ole-Johannes H N; Halvorsen, Per Steinar; Palomar, Rafael; Plettemeier, Dirk; Hamran, Svein-Erik; Ramstad, Tor A; Balasingham, Ilangko

2015-05-01

Ultrawideband (UWB) radio technology for wireless implants has gained significant attention. UWB enables the fabrication of faster and smaller transceivers with ultralow power consumption, which may be integrated into more sophisticated implantable biomedical sensors and actuators. Nevertheless, the large path loss suffered by UWB signals propagating through inhomogeneous layers of biological tissues is a major hindering factor. For the optimal design of implantable transceivers, the accurate characterization of the UWB radio propagation in living biological tissues is indispensable. Channel measurements in phantoms and numerical simulations with digital anatomical models provide good initial insight into the expected path loss in complex propagation media like the human body, but they often fail to capture the effects of blood circulation, respiration, and temperature gradients of a living subject. Therefore, we performed UWB channel measurements within 1-6 GHz on two living porcine subjects because of the anatomical resemblance with an average human torso. We present for the first time, a path loss model derived from these in vivo measurements, which includes the frequency-dependent attenuation. The use of multiple on-body receiving antennas to combat the high propagation losses in implant radio channels was also investigated.

MEAN FREE PATH OF HOT ELECTRONS AND HOLES IN METALS

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

Stuart, R.N.; Wooten, F.; Spicer, W.E.

1963-01-01

The mean free paths and attenuation lengths of hot electrons and holes in metals are calculated by Morte Cario methods. The results are compared with experimental results for electrons in Au,-Ag, Cu, and Pd and holes in Au. (T.F.H.)

Radiated Seismic Energy of Earthquakes in the South-Central Region of the Gulf of California, Mexico

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Castro, Raúl R.; Mendoza-Camberos, Antonio; Pérez-Vertti, Arturo

2018-05-01

We estimated the radiated seismic energy (ES) of 65 earthquakes located in the south-central region of the Gulf of California. Most of these events occurred along active transform faults that define the Pacific-North America plate boundary and have magnitudes between M3.3 and M5.9. We corrected the spectral records for attenuation using nonparametric S-wave attenuation functions determined with the whole data set. The path effects were isolated from the seismic source using a spectral inversion. We computed radiated seismic energy of the earthquakes by integrating the square velocity source spectrum and estimated their apparent stresses. We found that most events have apparent stress between 3 × 10-4 and 3 MPa. Model independent estimates of the ratio between seismic energy and moment (ES/M0) indicates that this ratio is independent of earthquake size. We conclude that in general the apparent stress is low (σa < 3 MPa) in the south-central and southern Gulf of California.

Attenuation and bit error rate for four co-propagating spatially multiplexed optical communication channels of exactly same wavelength in step index multimode fibers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Murshid, Syed H.; Chakravarty, Abhijit

2011-06-01

Spatial domain multiplexing (SDM) utilizes co-propagation of exactly the same wavelength in optical fibers to increase the bandwidth by integer multiples. Input signals from multiple independent single mode pigtail laser sources are launched at different input angles into a single multimode carrier fiber. The SDM channels follow helical paths and traverse through the carrier fiber without interfering with each other. The optical energy from the different sources is spatially distributed and takes the form of concentric circular donut shaped rings, where each ring corresponds to an independent laser source. At the output end of the fiber these donut shaped independent channels can be separated either with the help of bulk optics or integrated concentric optical detectors. This presents the experimental setup and results for a four channel SDM system. The attenuation and bit error rate for individual channels of such a system is also presented.

Contribution of biotic and abiotic factors in the natural attenuation of sulfamethoxazole: A path analysis approach.

PubMed

Li, Yan; Rashid, Azhar; Wang, Hongjie; Hu, Anyi; Lin, Lifeng; Yu, Chang-Ping; Chen, Meng; Sun, Qian

2018-08-15

Sulfamethoxazole (SMX) is a sulfonamide antibiotic, widely used as curative and preventive drug for human, animal, and aquaculture bacterial infections. Its residues have been ubiquitously detected in the surface waters and sediments. In the present study, SMX dissipation and kinetics was studied in the natural water samples from Jiulong River under simulated complex natural conditions as well as conditions to mimic various biotic and abiotic environmental conditions in isolation. Structural equation modeling (SEM) by employing partial least square technique in path coefficient analysis was used to investigate the direct and indirect contributions of different environmental factors in the natural attenuation of SMX. The model explained 81% of the variability in natural attenuation as a dependent variable under the influence of sole effects of direct photo-degradation, indirect photo-degradation, hydrolysis, microbial degradation and bacterial degradation. The results of SEM suggested that the direct and indirect photo-degradation were the major pathways in the SMX natural attenuation. However, other biotic and abiotic factors also play a mediatory role during the natural attenuation and other processes. Furthermore, the potential transformation products of SMX were identified and their toxicity was evaluated. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Epistemic Uncertainty and Limitations of the Kappa0 model for Near-surface Attenuation at Hard Rock Sites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Edwards, Benjamin

2016-04-01

The determination of near-surface attenuation for hard rock sites is an important issue in a wide range of seismological applications, particularly seismic hazard analysis. In this article we choose six hard to very-hard rock sites (Vs30 1030 to 3000 m/s) and apply a range of analysis methods to measure the observed attenuation at distance based on a simple exponential decay model with whole-path attenuation operator κ. The κ values are subsequently decoupled from path attenuation (Q) so as to obtain estimates of near-surface attenuation (κ0). Five methods are employed to measure κ which can be split into two groups: broadband methods and high-frequency methods. Each of the applied methods has advantages and disadvantages, which are explored and discussed through the comparison of results from common datasets. In our first step we examine the variability of the individual measured κ values. Some variation between methods is expected due to simplifications of source, path, and site effects. However, we find that significant differences arise between attenuation measured on individual recordings, depending on the method employed or the modelling decisions made during a particular approach. Some of the differences can be explained through site amplification effects: although usually weak at rock sites, amplification may still lead to bias of the measured κ due to the chosen fitting frequency bandwidth, which often varies between methods. At some sites the observed high-frequency spectral shape was clearly different to the typical κ attenuation model, with curved or bi-linear rather than linear decay at high frequencies. In addition to amplification effects this could be related to frequency-dependent attenuation effects (e.g., Q(f)): since the κ model is implicitly frequency independent, κ will in this case be dependent on the selected analysis bandwidth. In our second step, using the whole-path κ datasets from the five approaches, we investigate the robustness of the near-surface attenuation parameter κ0 and the influence of constraints, such as assuming a value for the regional crustal attenuation (Q). We do this by using a variety of fitting methods: least-squares, absolute amplitude, and regressions with and without fixing Q to an a priori value. We find that the value to which we fix Q strongly influences the near-surface attenuation term κ0. Differences in Q derived from the data at the six sites under investigation could not be reconciled with the average values found previously over the wider Swiss region. This led to starkly different κ0 values, depending on whether we allowed for a data-driven Q, or whether we forced Q to be consistent with existing simulation models or GMPEs valid for the wider region. Considering all the possible approaches we found that the contribution to epistemic uncertainty for κ0 determination at the six hard-rock sites in Switzerland could be represented by a normal distribution with standard deviation σκ0=0.0083±0.0014 s.

Path Integration on the Upper Half-Plane

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kubo, R.

1987-10-01

Feynman's path integral is considered on the Poincaré upper half-plane. It is shown that the fundermental solution to the heat equation partial f/partial t=Delta_{H}f can be expressed in terms of a path integral. A simple relation between the path integral and the Selberg trace formula is discussed briefly.

Path integration of head direction: updating a packet of neural activity at the correct speed using axonal conduction delays.

PubMed

Walters, Daniel; Stringer, Simon; Rolls, Edmund

2013-01-01

The head direction cell system is capable of accurately updating its current representation of head direction in the absence of visual input. This is known as the path integration of head direction. An important question is how the head direction cell system learns to perform accurate path integration of head direction. In this paper we propose a model of velocity path integration of head direction in which the natural time delay of axonal transmission between a linked continuous attractor network and competitive network acts as a timing mechanism to facilitate the correct speed of path integration. The model effectively learns a "look-up" table for the correct speed of path integration. In simulation, we show that the model is able to successfully learn two different speeds of path integration across two different axonal conduction delays, and without the need to alter any other model parameters. An implication of this model is that, by learning look-up tables for each speed of path integration, the model should exhibit a degree of robustness to damage. In simulations, we show that the speed of path integration is not significantly affected by degrading the network through removing a proportion of the cells that signal rotational velocity.

Path Integration of Head Direction: Updating a Packet of Neural Activity at the Correct Speed Using Axonal Conduction Delays

PubMed Central

Walters, Daniel; Stringer, Simon; Rolls, Edmund

2013-01-01

The head direction cell system is capable of accurately updating its current representation of head direction in the absence of visual input. This is known as the path integration of head direction. An important question is how the head direction cell system learns to perform accurate path integration of head direction. In this paper we propose a model of velocity path integration of head direction in which the natural time delay of axonal transmission between a linked continuous attractor network and competitive network acts as a timing mechanism to facilitate the correct speed of path integration. The model effectively learns a “look-up” table for the correct speed of path integration. In simulation, we show that the model is able to successfully learn two different speeds of path integration across two different axonal conduction delays, and without the need to alter any other model parameters. An implication of this model is that, by learning look-up tables for each speed of path integration, the model should exhibit a degree of robustness to damage. In simulations, we show that the speed of path integration is not significantly affected by degrading the network through removing a proportion of the cells that signal rotational velocity. PMID:23526976

Apparatus and process for active pulse intensity control of laser beam

DOEpatents

Wilcox, Russell B.

1992-01-01

An optically controlled laser pulse energy control apparatus and process is disclosed wherein variations in the energy of a portion of the laser beam are used to vary the resistance of a photodetector such as a photoresistor through which a control voltage is fed to a light intensity controlling device through which a second portion of the laser beam passes. Light attenuation means are provided to vary the intensity of the laser light used to control the resistance of the photodetector. An optical delay path is provided through which the second portion of the beam travels before reaching the light intensity controlling device. The control voltage is supplied by a variable power supply. The apparatus may be tuned to properly attenuate the laser beam passing through the intensity controlling device by adjusting the power supply, the optical delay path, or the light attenuating means.

Silicon photonic dynamic optical channel leveler with external feedback loop.

PubMed

Doylend, J K; Jessop, P E; Knights, A P

2010-06-21

We demonstrate a dynamic optical channel leveler composed of a variable optical attenuator (VOA) integrated monolithically with a defect-mediated photodiode in a silicon photonic waveguide device. An external feedback loop mimics an analog circuit such that the photodiode directly controls the VOA to provide blind channel leveling within +/-1 dB across a 7-10 dB dynamic range for wavelengths from 1530 nm to 1570 nm. The device consumes approximately 50 mW electrical power and occupies a 6 mm x 0.1 mm footprint per channel. Dynamic leveling is accomplished without tapping optical power from the output path to the photodiode and thus the loss penalty is minimized.

Technique for active measurement of atmospheric transmittance using an imaging system: implementation at 10.6-μm wavelength

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sadot, Dan; Zaarur, O.; Zaarur, S.; Kopeika, Norman S.

1994-10-01

An active method is presented for measuring atmospheric transmittance with an imaging system. In comparison to other measurement methods, this method has the advantage of immunity to background noise, independence of atmospheric conditions such as solar radiation, and an improved capability to evaluate effects of turbulence on the measurements. Other significant advantages are integration over all particulate size distribution effects including very small and very large particulates whose concentration is hard to measure, and the fact that this method is a path-integrated measurement. In this implementation attenuation deriving from molecular absorption and from small and large particulate scatter and absorption and their weather dependences are separated out. Preliminary results indicate high correlation with direct transmittance calculations via particle size distribution measurement, and that even at 10.6 micrometers wavelength atmospheric transmission depends noticeably on aerosol size distribution and concentration.

A technique for active measurement of atmospheric transmittance using an imaging system: implementation at 10.6 μm wavelength

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sadot, D.; Zaarur, O.; Zaarur, S.

1995-12-01

An active method is presented for measuring atmospheric transmittance with an imaging system. In comparison to other measurement methods, this method has the advantage of immunity to background noise, independence of atmospheric conditions such as solar radiation, and an improved capability to evaluate effects of turbulence on the measurements. Other significant advantages are integration over all particulate size distribution effects including very small and very large particulates whose concentration is hard to measure, and the fact that this method is a path-integrated measurement. Attenuation deriving from molecular absorption and from small and large particulate scatter and absorption and their weather dependences are separated out. Preliminary results indicate high correlation with direct transmittance calculations via particle size distribution measurement, and that even at 10.6 μm wavelength atmospheric transmission depends noticeably on aerosol size distribution and concentration.

LINES OF EVIDENCE FOR NA FOR ORGANIC COMPOUNDS AND THE USE OF COMPOUND SPECIFIC ISOTOPE ANALYSIS

EPA Science Inventory

The strongest line of evidence is a reduction in concentration over time. However, this only provides evidence of natural attenuation of the source area. It is difficult to determine the rate of natural attenuation through biodegradation with distance along a flow path in the a...

Modeling the blockage of Lg waves from 3-D variations in crustal structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sanborn, Christopher J.; Cormier, Vernon F.

2018-05-01

Comprised of S waves trapped in Earth's crust, the high frequency (2-10 Hz) Lg wave is important to discriminating earthquakes from explosions by comparing its amplitude and waveform to those of Pg and Pn waves. Lateral variations in crustal structure, including variations in crustal thickness, intrinsic attenuation, and scattering, affect the efficiency of Lg propagation and its consistency as a source discriminant at regional (200-1500 km) distances. To investigate the effects of laterally varying Earth structure on the efficiency of propagation of Lg and Pg, we apply a radiative transport algorithm to model complete, high-frequency (2-4 Hz), regional coda envelopes. The algorithm propagates packets of energy with ray theory through large-scale 3-D structure, and includes stochastic effects of multiple-scattering by small-scale heterogeneities within the large-scale structure. Source-radiation patterns are described by moment tensors. Seismograms of explosion and earthquake sources are synthesized in canonical models to predict effects on waveforms of paths crossing regions of crustal thinning (pull-apart basins and ocean/continent transitions) and thickening (collisional mountain belts), For paths crossing crustal thinning regions, Lg is amplified at receivers within the thinned region but strongly disrupted and attenuated at receivers beyond the thinned region. For paths crossing regions of crustal thickening, Lg amplitude is attenuated at receivers within the thickened region, but experiences little or no reduction in amplitude at receivers beyond the thickened region. The length of the Lg propagation within a thickened region and the complexity of over- and under-thrust crustal layers, can produce localized zones of Lg amplification or attenuation. Regions of intense scattering within laterally homogeneous models of the crust increase Lg attenuation but do not disrupt its coda shape.

An open-chain imaginary-time path-integral sampling approach to the calculation of approximate symmetrized quantum time correlation functions.

PubMed

Cendagorta, Joseph R; Bačić, Zlatko; Tuckerman, Mark E

2018-03-14

We introduce a scheme for approximating quantum time correlation functions numerically within the Feynman path integral formulation. Starting with the symmetrized version of the correlation function expressed as a discretized path integral, we introduce a change of integration variables often used in the derivation of trajectory-based semiclassical methods. In particular, we transform to sum and difference variables between forward and backward complex-time propagation paths. Once the transformation is performed, the potential energy is expanded in powers of the difference variables, which allows us to perform the integrals over these variables analytically. The manner in which this procedure is carried out results in an open-chain path integral (in the remaining sum variables) with a modified potential that is evaluated using imaginary-time path-integral sampling rather than requiring the generation of a large ensemble of trajectories. Consequently, any number of path integral sampling schemes can be employed to compute the remaining path integral, including Monte Carlo, path-integral molecular dynamics, or enhanced path-integral molecular dynamics. We believe that this approach constitutes a different perspective in semiclassical-type approximations to quantum time correlation functions. Importantly, we argue that our approximation can be systematically improved within a cumulant expansion formalism. We test this approximation on a set of one-dimensional problems that are commonly used to benchmark approximate quantum dynamical schemes. We show that the method is at least as accurate as the popular ring-polymer molecular dynamics technique and linearized semiclassical initial value representation for correlation functions of linear operators in most of these examples and improves the accuracy of correlation functions of nonlinear operators.

An open-chain imaginary-time path-integral sampling approach to the calculation of approximate symmetrized quantum time correlation functions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cendagorta, Joseph R.; Bačić, Zlatko; Tuckerman, Mark E.

2018-03-01

We introduce a scheme for approximating quantum time correlation functions numerically within the Feynman path integral formulation. Starting with the symmetrized version of the correlation function expressed as a discretized path integral, we introduce a change of integration variables often used in the derivation of trajectory-based semiclassical methods. In particular, we transform to sum and difference variables between forward and backward complex-time propagation paths. Once the transformation is performed, the potential energy is expanded in powers of the difference variables, which allows us to perform the integrals over these variables analytically. The manner in which this procedure is carried out results in an open-chain path integral (in the remaining sum variables) with a modified potential that is evaluated using imaginary-time path-integral sampling rather than requiring the generation of a large ensemble of trajectories. Consequently, any number of path integral sampling schemes can be employed to compute the remaining path integral, including Monte Carlo, path-integral molecular dynamics, or enhanced path-integral molecular dynamics. We believe that this approach constitutes a different perspective in semiclassical-type approximations to quantum time correlation functions. Importantly, we argue that our approximation can be systematically improved within a cumulant expansion formalism. We test this approximation on a set of one-dimensional problems that are commonly used to benchmark approximate quantum dynamical schemes. We show that the method is at least as accurate as the popular ring-polymer molecular dynamics technique and linearized semiclassical initial value representation for correlation functions of linear operators in most of these examples and improves the accuracy of correlation functions of nonlinear operators.

On-Chip Photothermal Analyte Detection Using Integrated Luminescent Temperature Sensors.

PubMed

Pfeiffer, Simon A; Nagl, Stefan

2017-09-05

Optical absorbance detection based on attenuated light transmission is limited in sensitivity due to short path lengths in microfluidic and other miniaturized platforms. An alternative is detection using the photothermal effect. Herein we introduce a new kind of photothermal absorbance measurement using integrated luminescent temperature sensor spots inside microfluidic channels. The temperature sensors were photopolymerized inside the channels from NOA 81 UV-curable thiolene prepolymer doped with a tris(1,10-phenanthroline)ruthenium(II) temperature probe. The polymerized sensing structures were as small as 26 ± 3 μm in diameter and displayed a temperature resolution of better than 0.3 K between 20 and 50 °C. The absorbance from 532 nm laser excitation of the food dye Amaranth as a model analyte was quantified using these spots, and the influence of the flow rate, laser power, and concentration was investigated. Calibration yielded a linear relationship between analyte concentration and the temperature signal in the channels. The limit of detection for the azo-dye Amaranth (E123) in this setup was 13 μM. A minimal detectable absorbance of 3.2 × 10 -3 AU was obtained using an optical path length of 125 μm in this initial study. A microreactor with integrated temperature sensors was then employed for an absorbance-based miniaturized nitrite analysis, yielding a detection limit of 26 μM at a total assay time of only 75 s. This technique is very promising for sensitive, and potentially spatially resolved, optical absorbance detection on the micro- and nanoscale.

Prediction of attenuation of the 28 GHz COMSTAR beacon signal using radar and measured rain drop spectra

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goldhirsh, J.

1977-01-01

Disdrometer measurements and radar reflectivity measurements were injected into a computer program to estimate the path attenuation of the signal. Predicted attenuations when compared with the directly measured ones showed generally good correlation on a case by case basis and very good agreement statistically. The utility of using radar in conjunction with disdrometer measurements for predicting fade events and long term fade distributions associated with earth-satellite telecommunications is demonstrated.

Statistical Modelling and Characterization of Experimental mm-Wave Indoor Channels for Future 5G Wireless Communication Networks

PubMed Central

Al-Samman, A. M.; Rahman, T. A.; Azmi, M. H.; Hindia, M. N.; Khan, I.; Hanafi, E.

2016-01-01

This paper presents an experimental characterization of millimeter-wave (mm-wave) channels in the 6.5 GHz, 10.5 GHz, 15 GHz, 19 GHz, 28 GHz and 38 GHz frequency bands in an indoor corridor environment. More than 4,000 power delay profiles were measured across the bands using an omnidirectional transmitter antenna and a highly directional horn receiver antenna for both co- and cross-polarized antenna configurations. This paper develops a new path-loss model to account for the frequency attenuation with distance, which we term the frequency attenuation (FA) path-loss model and introduce a frequency-dependent attenuation factor. The large-scale path loss was characterized based on both new and well-known path-loss models. A general and less complex method is also proposed to estimate the cross-polarization discrimination (XPD) factor of close-in reference distance with the XPD (CIX) and ABG with the XPD (ABGX) path-loss models to avoid the computational complexity of minimum mean square error (MMSE) approach. Moreover, small-scale parameters such as root mean square (RMS) delay spread, mean excess (MN-EX) delay, dispersion factors and maximum excess (MAX-EX) delay parameters were used to characterize the multipath channel dispersion. Multiple statistical distributions for RMS delay spread were also investigated. The results show that our proposed models are simpler and more physically-based than other well-known models. The path-loss exponents for all studied models are smaller than that of the free-space model by values in the range of 0.1 to 1.4 for all measured frequencies. The RMS delay spread values varied between 0.2 ns and 13.8 ns, and the dispersion factor values were less than 1 for all measured frequencies. The exponential and Weibull probability distribution models best fit the RMS delay spread empirical distribution for all of the measured frequencies in all scenarios. PMID:27654703

Statistical Modelling and Characterization of Experimental mm-Wave Indoor Channels for Future 5G Wireless Communication Networks.

PubMed

Al-Samman, A M; Rahman, T A; Azmi, M H; Hindia, M N; Khan, I; Hanafi, E

This paper presents an experimental characterization of millimeter-wave (mm-wave) channels in the 6.5 GHz, 10.5 GHz, 15 GHz, 19 GHz, 28 GHz and 38 GHz frequency bands in an indoor corridor environment. More than 4,000 power delay profiles were measured across the bands using an omnidirectional transmitter antenna and a highly directional horn receiver antenna for both co- and cross-polarized antenna configurations. This paper develops a new path-loss model to account for the frequency attenuation with distance, which we term the frequency attenuation (FA) path-loss model and introduce a frequency-dependent attenuation factor. The large-scale path loss was characterized based on both new and well-known path-loss models. A general and less complex method is also proposed to estimate the cross-polarization discrimination (XPD) factor of close-in reference distance with the XPD (CIX) and ABG with the XPD (ABGX) path-loss models to avoid the computational complexity of minimum mean square error (MMSE) approach. Moreover, small-scale parameters such as root mean square (RMS) delay spread, mean excess (MN-EX) delay, dispersion factors and maximum excess (MAX-EX) delay parameters were used to characterize the multipath channel dispersion. Multiple statistical distributions for RMS delay spread were also investigated. The results show that our proposed models are simpler and more physically-based than other well-known models. The path-loss exponents for all studied models are smaller than that of the free-space model by values in the range of 0.1 to 1.4 for all measured frequencies. The RMS delay spread values varied between 0.2 ns and 13.8 ns, and the dispersion factor values were less than 1 for all measured frequencies. The exponential and Weibull probability distribution models best fit the RMS delay spread empirical distribution for all of the measured frequencies in all scenarios.

Design of ultrasonic attenuation sensor with focused transmitter for density measurements of a slurry in a large steel pipeline

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

Greenwood, Margaret Stautberg

2015-12-01

To design an ultrasonic sensor to measure the attenuation and density of a slurry carried by a large steel pipeline (diameter up to 70 cm) is the goal of this research. The pitch-catch attenuation sensor, placed in a small section of the pipeline, contains a send unit with a focused transducer that focuses the ultrasound to a small region of the receive unit on the opposite wall. The focused transducer consists of a section of a sphere (base ~12 cm) on the outer side of the send unit and a 500 kHz piezoelectric shell of PZT5A epoxied to it. Themore » Rayleigh surface integral is used to calculate the pressure in steel and in water (slurry). An incremental method to plot the paths of ultrasonic rays shows that the rays focus where expected. Further, there is a region where the parallel rays are perpendicular to the wall of the receive unit. Designs for pipeline diameters of 25 cm and 71 cm show that the pressure in water at the receive transducer is about 17 times that for a pitch-catch system using 5 cm diameter disk transducers. The enhanced signal increases the sensitivity of the measurements and improves the signal-to-noise ratio.« less

Design of ultrasonic attenuation sensor with focused transmitter for density measurements of a slurry in a large steel pipeline.

PubMed

Greenwood, Margaret Stautberg

2015-12-01

To design an ultrasonic sensor to measure the attenuation and density of slurry carried by a large steel pipeline (diameter up to 70 cm) is the goal of this research. The pitch-catch attenuation sensor, placed in a small section of the pipeline, contains a send unit with a focused transducer that focuses the ultrasound to a small region of the receive unit on the opposite wall. The focused transducer consists of a section of a sphere (base ∼12 cm) on the outer side of the send unit and a 500 kHz piezoelectric shell of lead zirconate titanate epoxied to it. The Rayleigh surface integral is used to calculate the pressure in steel and in water (slurry). An incremental method to plot the paths of ultrasonic rays shows that the rays focus where expected. Further, there is a region where the parallel rays are perpendicular to the wall of the receive unit. Designs for pipeline diameters of 25 and 71 cm show that the pressure in water at the receive transducer is about 17 times that for a pitch-catch system using 5 cm diameter disk transducers. The enhanced signal increases the sensitivity of the measurements and improves the signal-to-noise ratio.

Small Aircraft RF Interference Path Loss

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nguyen, Truong X.; Koppen, Sandra V.; Ely, Jay J.; Szatkowski, George N.; Mielnik, John J.; Salud, Maria Theresa P.

2007-01-01

Interference to aircraft radio receivers is an increasing concern as more portable electronic devices are allowed onboard. Interference signals are attenuated as they propagate from inside the cabin to aircraft radio antennas mounted on the outside of the aircraft. The attenuation level is referred to as the interference path loss (IPL) value. Significant published IPL data exists for transport and regional category airplanes. This report fills a void by providing data for small business/corporate and general aviation aircraft. In this effort, IPL measurements are performed on ten small aircraft of different designs and manufacturers. Multiple radio systems are addressed. Along with the typical worst-case coupling values, statistical distributions are also reported that could lead to better interference risk assessment.

A scattering model for rain depolarization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wiley, P. H.; Stutzman, W. L.; Bostian, C. W.

1973-01-01

A method is presented for calculating the amount of depolarization caused by precipitation for a propagation path. In the model the effects of each scatterer and their interactions are accounted for by using a series of simplifying steps. It is necessary only to know the forward scattering properties of a single scatterer. For the case of rain the results of this model for attenuation, differential phase shift, and cross polarization agree very well with the results of the only other model available, that of differential attenuation and differential phase shift. Calculations presented here show that horizontal polarization is more sensitive to depolarization than is vertical polarization for small rain drop canting angle changes. This effect increases with increasing path length.

A Broadband Microwave Radiometer Technique at X-band for Rain and Drop Size Distribution Estimation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Meneghini, R.

2005-01-01

Radiometric brightess temperatures below about 12 GHz provide accurate estimates of path attenuation through precipitation and cloud water. Multiple brightness temperature measurements at X-band frequencies can be used to estimate rainfall rate and parameters of the drop size distribution once correction for cloud water attenuation is made. Employing a stratiform storm model, calculations of the brightness temperatures at 9.5, 10 and 12 GHz are used to simulate estimates of path-averaged median mass diameter, number concentration and rainfall rate. The results indicate that reasonably accurate estimates of rainfall rate and information on the drop size distribution can be derived over ocean under low to moderate wind speed conditions.

Comparison of high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) exposures using empirical and backscatter attenuation estimation methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Civale, John; Ter Haar, Gail; Rivens, Ian; Bamber, Jeff

2005-09-01

Currently, the intensity to be used in our clinical HIFU treatments is calculated from the acoustic path lengths in different tissues measured on diagnostic ultrasound images of the patient in the treatment position, and published values of ultrasound attenuation coefficients. This yields an approximate value for the acoustic power at the transducer required to give a stipulated focal intensity in situ. Estimation methods for the actual acoustic attenuation have been investigated in large parts of the tissue path overlying the target volume from the backscattered ultrasound signal for each patient (backscatter attenuation estimation: BAE). Several methods have been investigated. The backscattered echo information acquired from an Acuson scanner has been used to compute the diffraction-corrected attenuation coefficient at each frequency using two methods: a substitution method and an inverse diffraction filtering process. A homogeneous sponge phantom was used to validate the techniques. The use of BAE to determine the correct HIFU exposure parameters for lesioning has been tested in ex vivo liver. HIFU lesions created with a 1.7-MHz therapy transducer have been studied using a semiautomated image processing technique. The reproducibility of lesion size for given in situ intensities determined using BAE and empirical techniques has been compared.

Comparison study of photon attenuation characteristics of Lead-Boron Polyethylene by MCNP code, XCOM and experimental data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Lei; Jia, Mingchun; Gong, Junjun; Xia, Wenming

2017-08-01

The linear attenuation coefficient, mass attenuation coefficient and mean free path of various Lead-Boron Polyethylene (PbBPE) samples which can be used as the photon shielding materials in marine reactor have been simulated using the Monte Carlo N-Particle (MCNP)-5 code. The MCNP simulation results are in good agreement with the XCOM values and the reported experimental data for source Cesium-137 and Cobalt-60. Thus, this method based on MCNP can be used to simulate the photon attenuation characteristics of various types of PbBPE materials.

Geometry, Heat Equation and Path Integrals on the Poincaré Upper Half-Plane

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kubo, R.

1988-01-01

Geometry, heat equation and Feynman's path integrals are studied on the Poincaré upper half-plane. The fundamental solution to the heat equation partial f/partial t = Delta_{H} f is expressed in terms of a path integral defined on the upper half-plane. It is shown that Kac's statement that Feynman's path integral satisfies the Schrödinger equation is also valid for our case.

A new method for photon transport in Monte Carlo simulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sato, T.; Ogawa, K.

1999-12-01

Monte Carlo methods are used to evaluate data methods such as scatter and attenuation compensation in single photon emission CT (SPECT), treatment planning in radiation therapy, and in many industrial applications. In Monte Carlo simulation, photon transport requires calculating the distance from the location of the emitted photon to the nearest boundary of each uniform attenuating medium along its path of travel, and comparing this distance with the length of its path generated at emission. Here, the authors propose a new method that omits the calculation of the location of the exit point of the photon from each voxel and of the distance between the exit point and the original position. The method only checks the medium of each voxel along the photon's path. If the medium differs from that in the voxel from which the photon was emitted, the authors calculate the location of the entry point in the voxel, and the length of the path is compared with the mean free path length generated by a random number. Simulations using the MCAT phantom show that the ratios of the calculation time were 1.0 for the voxel-based method, and 0.51 for the proposed method with a 256/spl times/256/spl times/256 matrix image, thereby confirming the effectiveness of the algorithm.

Bubble Proliferation or Dissolution of Cavitation Nuclei in the Beam Path of a Shock-Wave Lithotripter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Frank, Spencer; Lautz, Jaclyn; Sankin, Georgy N.; Szeri, Andrew J.; Zhong, Pei

2015-03-01

It is hypothesized that the decreased treatment efficiency in contemporary shock-wave lithotripters is related to tensile wave attenuation due to cavitation in the prefocal beam path. Utilizing high-speed imaging of the beam path and focal pressure waveform measurements, tensile attenuation is associated with bubble proliferation. By systematically testing different combinations of pulse-repetition frequency and gas concentration, we modulate the bubble-dissolution time to identify which conditions lead to bubble proliferation and show that reducing bubble proliferation in the beam path significantly improves acoustic transmission and stone comminution efficiency in vitro. In addition to experiments, a bubble-proliferation model is developed that takes gas diffusion across the bubble wall and bubble fragmentation into account. By aligning the model with experimental observations, the number of daughter bubbles produced after a single lithotripter bubble collapse is estimated to be in the range of 253 ˜510 . This finding is on the same order of magnitude with previous measurements of an isolated bubble collapse in a lithotripter field by Pishchalnikov, McAteer, and Williams [BJU Int. 102, 1681 (2008), 10.1111/j.1464-410X.2008.07896.x], and this estimate improves the general understanding of lithotripsy bubble dynamics in the beam path.

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

Saha, K; Barbarits, J; Humenik, R

Purpose: Chang’s mathematical formulation is a common method of attenuation correction applied on reconstructed Jaszczak phantom images. Though Chang’s attenuation correction method has been used for 360° angle acquisition, its applicability for 180° angle acquisition remains a question with one vendor’s camera software producing artifacts. The objective of this work is to ensure that Chang’s attenuation correction technique can be applied for reconstructed Jaszczak phantom images acquired in both 360° and 180° mode. Methods: The Jaszczak phantom filled with 20 mCi of diluted Tc-99m was placed on the patient table of Siemens e.cam™ (n = 2) and Siemens Symbia™ (nmore » = 1) dual head gamma cameras centered both in lateral and axial directions. A total of 3 scans were done at 180° and 2 scans at 360° orbit acquisition modes. Thirty two million counts were acquired for both modes. Reconstruction of the projection data was performed using filtered back projection smoothed with pre reconstruction Butterworth filter (order: 6, cutoff: 0.55). Reconstructed transaxial slices were attenuation corrected by Chang’s attenuation correction technique as implemented in the camera software. Corrections were also done using a modified technique where photon path lengths for all possible attenuation paths through a pixel in the image space were added to estimate the corresponding attenuation factor. The inverse of the attenuation factor was utilized to correct the attenuated pixel counts. Results: Comparable uniformity and noise were observed for 360° acquired phantom images attenuation corrected by the vendor technique (28.3% and 7.9%) and the proposed technique (26.8% and 8.4%). The difference in uniformity for 180° acquisition between the proposed technique (22.6% and 6.8%) and the vendor technique (57.6% and 30.1%) was more substantial. Conclusion: Assessment of attenuation correction performance by phantom uniformity analysis illustrated improved uniformity with the proposed algorithm compared to the camera software.« less

Millimeter-wave studies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Allen, Kenneth C.

1988-01-01

Progress on millimeter-wave propagation experiments in Hawaii is reported. A short path for measuring attenuation in rain at 9.6, 28.8, 57.6, and 96.1 GHz is in operation. A slant path from Hilo to the top of Mauna Kea is scheduled. On this path, scattering from rain and clouds that may cause interference for satellites closely spaced in geosynchronous orbit will be measured at the same frequencies at 28.8 and 96.1 GHz. In addition the full transmission matrix will be measured at the same frequencies on the slant path. The technique and equipment used to measure the transmission matrix are described.

AC signal characterization for optimization of a CMOS single-electron pump

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Murray, Roy; Perron, Justin K.; Stewart, M. D., Jr.; Zimmerman, Neil M.

2018-02-01

Pumping single electrons at a set rate is being widely pursued as an electrical current standard. Semiconductor charge pumps have been pursued in a variety of modes, including single gate ratchet, a variety of 2-gate ratchet pumps, and 2-gate turnstiles. Whether pumping with one or two AC signals, lower error rates can result from better knowledge of the properties of the AC signal at the device. In this work, we operated a CMOS single-electron pump with a 2-gate ratchet style measurement and used the results to characterize and optimize our two AC signals. Fitting this data at various frequencies revealed both a difference in signal path length and attenuation between our two AC lines. Using this data, we corrected for the difference in signal path length and attenuation by applying an offset in both the phase and the amplitude at the signal generator. Operating the device as a turnstile while using the optimized parameters determined from the 2-gate ratchet measurement led to much flatter, more robust charge pumping plateaus. This method was useful in tuning our device up for optimal charge pumping, and may prove useful to the semiconductor quantum dot community to determine signal attenuation and path differences at the device.

Path integration on the hyperbolic plane with a magnetic field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grosche, Christian

1990-08-01

In this paper I discuss the path integrals on three formulations of hyperbolic geometry, where a constant magnetic field B is included. These are: the pseudosphere Λ2, the Poincaré disc D, and the hyperbolic strip S. The corresponding path integrals can be reformulated in terms of the path integral for the modified Pöschl-Teller potential. The wave-functions and the energy spectrum for the discrete and continuous part of the spectrum are explicitly calculated in each case. First the results are compared for the limit B → 0 with previous calculations and second with the path integration on the Poincaré upper half-plane U. This work is a continuation of the path integral calculations for the free motion on the various formulations on the hyperbolic plane and for the case of constant magnetic field on the Poincaré upper half-plane U.

Dissociable cognitive mechanisms underlying human path integration.

PubMed

Wiener, Jan M; Berthoz, Alain; Wolbers, Thomas

2011-01-01

Path integration is a fundamental mechanism of spatial navigation. In non-human species, it is assumed to be an online process in which a homing vector is updated continuously during an outward journey. In contrast, human path integration has been conceptualized as a configural process in which travelers store working memory representations of path segments, with the computation of a homing vector only occurring when required. To resolve this apparent discrepancy, we tested whether humans can employ different path integration strategies in the same task. Using a triangle completion paradigm, participants were instructed either to continuously update the start position during locomotion (continuous strategy) or to remember the shape of the outbound path and to calculate home vectors on basis of this representation (configural strategy). While overall homing accuracy was superior in the configural condition, participants were quicker to respond during continuous updating, strongly suggesting that homing vectors were computed online. Corroborating these findings, we observed reliable differences in head orientation during the outbound path: when participants applied the continuous updating strategy, the head deviated significantly from straight ahead in direction of the start place, which can be interpreted as a continuous motor expression of the homing vector. Head orientation-a novel online measure for path integration-can thus inform about the underlying updating mechanism already during locomotion. In addition to demonstrating that humans can employ different cognitive strategies during path integration, our two-systems view helps to resolve recent controversies regarding the role of the medial temporal lobe in human path integration.

Field evaluation of open and closed-path CO2 flux systems over asphalt surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bogoev, I.; Santos, E.

2016-12-01

Eddy covariance (EC) is a widely used method for quantifying surface fluxes of heat, water vapor and carbon dioxide between ecosystems and the atmosphere. A typical EC system consists of an ultrasonic anemometer measuring the 3D wind vector and a fast-response infrared gas analyzer for sensing the water vapor and CO2 density in the air. When using an open-path analyzer that detects the constituent's density in situ a correction for concurrent air temperature and humidity fluctuations must be applied, Webb et al. (1980). In environments with small magnitudes of CO2 flux (<5µmol m-2 s-1) and in the presence of high sensible heat flux, like wintertime over boreal forest, open-path flux measurements have been challenging since the magnitude of the density corrections are as large as the uncorrected CO2 flux itself. A new technology merging the sensing paths of the gas analyzer and the sonic anemometer has been recently developed. This new integrated instrument allows a direct measurement of CO2 mixing ratio in the open air and has the potential to improve the quality of the temperature related density corrections by synchronously measuring the sensible heat flux in the optical path of the gas analyzer. We evaluate the performance and the accuracy of this new sensor over a large parking lot with an asphalt surface where the CO2 fluxes are considered low and the interfering sensible heat fluxes are above 200 Wm-2. A co-located closed-path EC system is used as a reference measurement to examine any systematic biases and apparent CO2 uptake observed with open-path sensors under high sensible heat flux regimes. Half-hour mean and variance of CO2 and water vapor concentrations are evaluated. The relative spectral responses, covariances and corrected turbulent fluxes using a common sonic anemometer are analyzed. The influence of sensor separation and frequency response attenuation on the density corrections is discussed.

P-wave attenuation in the Pacific slab beneath northeastern Japan revealed by the spectral ratio of intraslab earthquakes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shiina, Takahiro; Nakajima, Junichi; Matsuzawa, Toru

2018-05-01

We investigate P-wave attenuation, Qp-1, in the Pacific slab beneath northeastern (NE) Japan, adopting for the first time the spectral ratio technique for intraslab earthquakes. When seismograms of two earthquakes are recorded at a station and their ray paths to the station are largely overlapped, station-dependent amplification and structural effects on the overlapped rays can be canceled out from the ratio of the spectral amplitudes of the seismograms. Therefore, adopting the spectral ratio technique for intraslab earthquakes has a great advantage for the precise evaluation of Qp-1 in the slab because the structural effects above the slab, including the high-attenuation mantle wedge, are removed. For estimating the intraslab Qp-1, we determined corner frequency of the intraslab earthquakes using the S-coda wave spectral ratio as the first step. Then, we evaluated the inter-event path attenuation, Δt*, from the ratio of the spectral amplitudes of P waves. The obtained result shows that P-wave attenuation in the Pacific slab marks Qp-1 of 0.0015 (Qp of ∼670) at depths of 50-250 km. This indicates that the P-wave attenuation in the Pacific slab is weaker than that in the mantle wedge. The relatively high-Qp-1 is correlated with the distributions of intraslab earthquakes, suggesting that the P-wave amplitude is more attenuated around active seismicity zones in the slab. Therefore, our observations likely indicate the presence of fractures, hydrous minerals, and dehydrated fluid around seismogenic zones in the slab at intermediate depths.

Correlation of S-Band Weather Radar Reflectivity and ACTS Propagation Data in Florida

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wolfe, Eric E.; Flikkema, Paul G.; Henning, Rudolf E.

1997-01-01

Previous work has shown that Ka-band attenuation due to rainfall and corresponding S-band reflectivity are highly correlated. This paper reports on work whose goal is to determine the feasibility of estimation and, by extension, prediction of one parameter from the other using the Florida ACTS propagation terminal (APT) and the nearby WSR-88D S-band Doppler weather radar facility operated by the National Weather Service. This work is distinguished from previous efforts in this area by (1) the use of a single-polarized radar, preventing estimation of the drop size distribution (e.g., with dual polarization) and (2) the fact that the radar and APT sites are not co-located. Our approach consists of locating the radar volume elements along the satellite slant path and then, from measured reflectivity, estimating the specific attenuation for each associated path segment. The sum of these contributions yields an estimation of the millimeter-wave attenuation on the space-ground link. Seven days of data from both systems are analyzed using this procedure. The results indicate that definite correlation of S-band reflectivity and Ka-band attenuation exists even under the restriciton of this experiment. Based on these results, it appears possible to estimate Ka-band attenuation using widely available operational weather radar data. Conversely, it may be possible to augment current radar reflectivity data and coverage with low-cost attenuation or sky temperature data to improve the estimation of rain rates.

S-wave attenuation in northeastern Sonora, Mexico, near the faults that ruptured during the earthquake of 3 May 1887 Mw 7.5.

PubMed

Villalobos-Escobar, Gina P; Castro, Raúl R

2014-01-01

We used a new data set of relocated earthquakes recorded by the Seismic Network of Northeastern Sonora, Mexico (RESNES) to characterize the attenuation of S-waves in the fault zone of the 1887 Sonora earthquake (M w 7.5). We determined spectral attenuation functions for hypocentral distances (r) between 10 and 140 km using a nonparametric approach and found that in this fault zone the spectral amplitudes decay slower with distance at low frequencies (f < 4 Hz) compared to those reported in previous studies in the region using more distant recordings. The attenuation functions obtained for 23 frequencies (0.4 ≤ f ≤ 63.1 Hz) permit us estimating the average quality factor Q S  = (141 ± 1.1 )f ((0.74 ± 0.04)) and a geometrical spreading term G(r) = 1/r (0.21). The values of Q estimated for S-wave paths traveling along the fault system that rupture during the 1887 event, in the north-south direction, are considerably lower than the average Q estimated using source-station paths from multiple stations and directions. These results indicate that near the fault zone S waves attenuate considerably more than at regional scale, particularly at low frequencies. This may be the result of strong scattering near the faults due to the fractured upper crust and higher intrinsic attenuation due to stress concentration near the faults.

Modeling and properties of an ion-exchanged optical variable attenuator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Orignac, Xavier; Ingenhoff, Jan; Fabricius, Norbert

1999-03-01

The optical signal power needs to be regulated at some locations in transmission lines. That can be done with the help of optical variable attenuators (OVA), devices which allows for the control of their insertion loss. This work describes the design and properties of some OVAs fabricated by the ion-exchange technique. The OVA functionality relies on a Mach-Zehnder structure, where the output optical intensity is tuned via the change in optical path along one of the two interferometer arms. Here, the optical path is varied through thermo-optic effect (change of refractive index with temperature). Modelling is first addressed: a mostly qualitative theoretical investigation is used to clarify how the fabrication parameters (burial depth and Mach-Zehnder arm separation distance) can be related to the OVAs properties (attenuation dynamic, switching power, settling time, PDL). Properties of fabricated OVAs are presented in a second part. They are compared with other existing products. The relationship between fabrication parameters and properties is also re-examined in light of these results.

Path length dependent neutron diffraction peak shifts observed during residual strain measurements in U–8 wt% Mo castings

DOE PAGES

Steiner, M. A.; Bunn, J. R.; Einhorn, J. R.; ...

2017-05-16

This study reports an angular diffraction peak shift that scales linearly with the neutron beam path length traveled through a diffracting sample. This shift was observed in the context of mapping the residual stress state of a large U–8 wt% Mo casting, as well as during complementary measurements on a smaller casting of the same material. If uncorrected, this peak shift implies a non-physical level of residual stress. A hypothesis for the origin of this shift is presented, based upon non-ideal focusing of the neutron monochromator in combination with changes to the wavelength distribution reaching the detector due to factorsmore » such as attenuation. The magnitude of the shift is observed to vary linearly with the width of the diffraction peak reaching the detector. Consideration of this shift will be important for strain measurements requiring long path lengths through samples with significant attenuation. This effect can probably be reduced by selecting smaller voxel slit widths.« less

Direct Position Determination of Unknown Signals in the Presence of Multipath Propagation

PubMed Central

Yu, Hongyi

2018-01-01

A novel geolocation architecture, termed “Multiple Transponders and Multiple Receivers for Multiple Emitters Positioning System (MTRE)” is proposed in this paper. Existing Direct Position Determination (DPD) methods take advantage of a rather simple channel assumption (line of sight channels with complex path attenuations) and a simplified MUltiple SIgnal Classification (MUSIC) algorithm cost function to avoid the high dimension searching. We point out that the simplified assumption and cost function reduce the positioning accuracy because of the singularity of the array manifold in a multi-path environment. We present a DPD model for unknown signals in the presence of Multi-path Propagation (MP-DPD) in this paper. MP-DPD adds non-negative real path attenuation constraints to avoid the mistake caused by the singularity of the array manifold. The Multi-path Propagation MUSIC (MP-MUSIC) method and the Active Set Algorithm (ASA) are designed to reduce the dimension of searching. A Multi-path Propagation Maximum Likelihood (MP-ML) method is proposed in addition to overcome the limitation of MP-MUSIC in the sense of a time-sensitive application. An iterative algorithm and an approach of initial value setting are given to make the MP-ML time consumption acceptable. Numerical results validate the performances improvement of MP-MUSIC and MP-ML. A closed form of the Cramér–Rao Lower Bound (CRLB) is derived as a benchmark to evaluate the performances of MP-MUSIC and MP-ML. PMID:29562601

Direct Position Determination of Unknown Signals in the Presence of Multipath Propagation.

PubMed

Du, Jianping; Wang, Ding; Yu, Wanting; Yu, Hongyi

2018-03-17

A novel geolocation architecture, termed "Multiple Transponders and Multiple Receivers for Multiple Emitters Positioning System (MTRE)" is proposed in this paper. Existing Direct Position Determination (DPD) methods take advantage of a rather simple channel assumption (line of sight channels with complex path attenuations) and a simplified MUltiple SIgnal Classification (MUSIC) algorithm cost function to avoid the high dimension searching. We point out that the simplified assumption and cost function reduce the positioning accuracy because of the singularity of the array manifold in a multi-path environment. We present a DPD model for unknown signals in the presence of Multi-path Propagation (MP-DPD) in this paper. MP-DPD adds non-negative real path attenuation constraints to avoid the mistake caused by the singularity of the array manifold. The Multi-path Propagation MUSIC (MP-MUSIC) method and the Active Set Algorithm (ASA) are designed to reduce the dimension of searching. A Multi-path Propagation Maximum Likelihood (MP-ML) method is proposed in addition to overcome the limitation of MP-MUSIC in the sense of a time-sensitive application. An iterative algorithm and an approach of initial value setting are given to make the MP-ML time consumption acceptable. Numerical results validate the performances improvement of MP-MUSIC and MP-ML. A closed form of the Cramér-Rao Lower Bound (CRLB) is derived as a benchmark to evaluate the performances of MP-MUSIC and MP-ML.

Airborne radar and radiometer experiment for quantitative remote measurements of rain

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kozu, Toshiaki; Meneghini, Robert; Boncyk, Wayne; Wilheit, Thomas T.; Nakamura, Kenji

1989-01-01

An aircraft experiment has been conducted with a dual-frequency (10 GHz and 35 GHz) radar/radiometer system and an 18-GHz radiometer to test various rain-rate retrieval algorithms from space. In the experiment, which took place in the fall of 1988 at the NASA Wallops Flight Facility, VA, both stratiform and convective storms were observed. A ground-based radar and rain gauges were also used to obtain truth data. An external radar calibration is made with rain gauge data, thereby enabling quantitative reflectivity measurements. Comparisons between path attenuations derived from the surface return and from the radar reflectivity profile are made to test the feasibility of a technique to estimate the raindrop size distribution from simultaneous radar and path-attenuation measurements.

Small Aircraft RF Interference Path Loss Measurements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nguyen, Truong X.; Koppen, Sandra V.; Ely, Jay J.; Szatkowski, George N.; Mielnik, John J.; Salud, Maria Theresa P.

2007-01-01

Interference to aircraft radio receivers is an increasing concern as more portable electronic devices are allowed onboard. Interference signals are attenuated as they propagate from inside the cabin to aircraft radio antennas mounted on the outside of the aircraft. The attenuation level is referred to as the interference path loss (IPL) value. Significant published IPL data exists for transport and regional category airplanes. This report fills a void by providing data for small business/corporate and general aviation aircraft. In this effort, IPL measurements are performed on ten small aircraft of different designs and manufacturers. Multiple radio systems are addressed. Along with the typical worst-case coupling values, statistical distributions are also reported that could lead to more meaningful interference risk assessment.

A Dynamic Bayesian Observer Model Reveals Origins of Bias in Visual Path Integration.

PubMed

Lakshminarasimhan, Kaushik J; Petsalis, Marina; Park, Hyeshin; DeAngelis, Gregory C; Pitkow, Xaq; Angelaki, Dora E

2018-06-20

Path integration is a strategy by which animals track their position by integrating their self-motion velocity. To identify the computational origins of bias in visual path integration, we asked human subjects to navigate in a virtual environment using optic flow and found that they generally traveled beyond the goal location. Such a behavior could stem from leaky integration of unbiased self-motion velocity estimates or from a prior expectation favoring slower speeds that causes velocity underestimation. Testing both alternatives using a probabilistic framework that maximizes expected reward, we found that subjects' biases were better explained by a slow-speed prior than imperfect integration. When subjects integrate paths over long periods, this framework intriguingly predicts a distance-dependent bias reversal due to buildup of uncertainty, which we also confirmed experimentally. These results suggest that visual path integration in noisy environments is limited largely by biases in processing optic flow rather than by leaky integration. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Which way and how far? Tracking of translation and rotation information for human path integration.

PubMed

Chrastil, Elizabeth R; Sherrill, Katherine R; Hasselmo, Michael E; Stern, Chantal E

2016-10-01

Path integration, the constant updating of the navigator's knowledge of position and orientation during movement, requires both visuospatial knowledge and memory. This study aimed to develop a systems-level understanding of human path integration by examining the basic building blocks of path integration in humans. To achieve this goal, we used functional imaging to examine the neural mechanisms that support the tracking and memory of translational and rotational components of human path integration. Critically, and in contrast to previous studies, we examined movement in translation and rotation tasks with no defined end-point or goal. Navigators accumulated translational and rotational information during virtual self-motion. Activity in hippocampus, retrosplenial cortex (RSC), and parahippocampal cortex (PHC) increased during both translation and rotation encoding, suggesting that these regions track self-motion information during path integration. These results address current questions regarding distance coding in the human brain. By implementing a modified delayed match to sample paradigm, we also examined the encoding and maintenance of path integration signals in working memory. Hippocampus, PHC, and RSC were recruited during successful encoding and maintenance of path integration information, with RSC selective for tasks that required processing heading rotation changes. These data indicate distinct working memory mechanisms for translation and rotation, which are essential for updating neural representations of current location. The results provide evidence that hippocampus, PHC, and RSC flexibly track task-relevant translation and rotation signals for path integration and could form the hub of a more distributed network supporting spatial navigation. Hum Brain Mapp 37:3636-3655, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

An Initial Assessment of the Surface Reference Technique Applied to Data from the Dual-Frequency Precipitation Radar (DPR) on the GPM Satellite

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Meneghini, Robert; Kim, Hyokyung; Liao, Liang; Jones, Jeffrey A.; Kwiatkowski, John M.

2015-01-01

It has long been recognized that path-integrated attenuation (PIA) can be used to improve precipitation estimates from high-frequency weather radar data. One approach that provides an estimate of this quantity from airborne or spaceborne radar data is the surface reference technique (SRT), which uses measurements of the surface cross section in the presence and absence of precipitation. Measurements from the dual-frequency precipitation radar (DPR) on the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) satellite afford the first opportunity to test the method for spaceborne radar data at Ka band as well as for the Ku-band-Ka-band combination. The study begins by reviewing the basis of the single- and dual-frequency SRT. As the performance of the method is closely tied to the behavior of the normalized radar cross section (NRCS or sigma(0)) of the surface, the statistics of sigma(0) derived from DPR measurements are given as a function of incidence angle and frequency for ocean and land backgrounds over a 1-month period. Several independent estimates of the PIA, formed by means of different surface reference datasets, can be used to test the consistency of the method since, in the absence of error, the estimates should be identical. Along with theoretical considerations, the comparisons provide an initial assessment of the performance of the single- and dual-frequency SRT for the DPR. The study finds that the dual-frequency SRT can provide improvement in the accuracy of path attenuation estimates relative to the single-frequency method, particularly at Ku band.

Perfect discretization of reparametrization invariant path integrals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bahr, Benjamin; Dittrich, Bianca; Steinhaus, Sebastian

2011-05-01

To obtain a well-defined path integral one often employs discretizations. In the case of gravity and reparametrization-invariant systems, the latter of which we consider here as a toy example, discretizations generically break diffeomorphism and reparametrization symmetry, respectively. This has severe implications, as these symmetries determine the dynamics of the corresponding system. Indeed we will show that a discretized path integral with reparametrization-invariance is necessarily also discretization independent and therefore uniquely determined by the corresponding continuum quantum mechanical propagator. We use this insight to develop an iterative method for constructing such a discretized path integral, akin to a Wilsonian RG flow. This allows us to address the problem of discretization ambiguities and of an anomaly-free path integral measure for such systems. The latter is needed to obtain a path integral, that can act as a projector onto the physical states, satisfying the quantum constraints. We will comment on implications for discrete quantum gravity models, such as spin foams.

First evidence for high anelastic attenuation beneath the Red Sea from Love wave analysis

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

Hadiouche, Ouiza

Attenuation coefficients of Love waves are determined for two seismic paths along the Red Sea. The attenuation coefficients are obtained using the multiple filter method for periods from 25 to 130 s along one path and from 40 to 130 s along the second one. The two sets of observations are in good agreement with anomalously high attenuation coefficients similar to those reported across a young part of the Pacific Ocean. Indeed, the values lie on average between 3.3 {plus minus} 0.6 and 1.1 {plus minus} 0.3 (10{sup {minus}4}km{sup {minus}1}) higher values being observed at shorter periods. In a secondmore » part of the paper, these apparent attenuation observations are interpreted in terms of a distribution of intrinsic absorption in the upper mantle. A frequency independent Q{sub {beta}} model is obtained using a trial-and-error method. The best fit to the data required a large and very low Q{sub {beta}} (30-50) zone below a depth of 50 km, underlying a thin and high Q{sub {beta}} (200-300) lid. These results are consistent with high heat flows and low velocities which characterize this tectonically active area, and corroborate the inference of anomalously high temperatures and low viscosity in the upper mantle beneath the Red Sea from recent seismological results.« less

Distinct roles of hippocampus and medial prefrontal cortex in spatial and nonspatial memory.

PubMed

Sapiurka, Maya; Squire, Larry R; Clark, Robert E

2016-12-01

In earlier work, patients with hippocampal damage successfully path integrated, apparently by maintaining spatial information in working memory. In contrast, rats with hippocampal damage were unable to path integrate, even when the paths were simple and working memory might have been expected to support performance. We considered possible ways to understand these findings. We tested rats with either hippocampal lesions or lesions of medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) on three tasks of spatial or nonspatial memory: path integration, spatial alternation, and a nonspatial alternation task. Rats with mPFC lesions were impaired on both spatial and nonspatial alternation but performed normally on path integration. By contrast, rats with hippocampal lesions were impaired on path integration and spatial alternation but performed normally on nonspatial alternation. We propose that rodent neocortex is limited in its ability to construct a coherent spatial working memory of complex environments. Accordingly, in tasks such as path integration and spatial alternation, working memory cannot depend on neocortex alone. Rats may accomplish many spatial memory tasks by relying on long-term memory. Alternatively, they may accomplish these tasks within working memory through sustained coordination between hippocampus and other cortical brain regions such as mPFC, in the case of spatial alternation, or parietal cortex in the case of path integration. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Rainfall effects on Ku-band satellite link design in rainy tropical climate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mandeep, J. S.; Hassan, S. I. S.; Tanaka, K.

2008-03-01

The performance of rain attenuation models in equatorial zones is still a debated issue due to the lack of measurements reported from these areas. Therefore,Therefore the rainfall path attenuation at 12.255 GHz measured at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) for three years is presented. It shows that the power law function of rain attenuation with ground rain rate deviates at very high rain rate. A comparison is made between the measured cumulative distributions and current prediction models, in order to determine which model gives the best prediction for this location.

Medial temporal lobe roles in human path integration.

PubMed

Yamamoto, Naohide; Philbeck, John W; Woods, Adam J; Gajewski, Daniel A; Arthur, Joeanna C; Potolicchio, Samuel J; Levy, Lucien; Caputy, Anthony J

2014-01-01

Path integration is a process in which observers derive their location by integrating self-motion signals along their locomotion trajectory. Although the medial temporal lobe (MTL) is thought to take part in path integration, the scope of its role for path integration remains unclear. To address this issue, we administered a variety of tasks involving path integration and other related processes to a group of neurosurgical patients whose MTL was unilaterally resected as therapy for epilepsy. These patients were unimpaired relative to neurologically intact controls in many tasks that required integration of various kinds of sensory self-motion information. However, the same patients (especially those who had lesions in the right hemisphere) walked farther than the controls when attempting to walk without vision to a previewed target. Importantly, this task was unique in our test battery in that it allowed participants to form a mental representation of the target location and anticipate their upcoming walking trajectory before they began moving. Thus, these results put forth a new idea that the role of MTL structures for human path integration may stem from their participation in predicting the consequences of one's locomotor actions. The strengths of this new theoretical viewpoint are discussed.

Medial Temporal Lobe Roles in Human Path Integration

PubMed Central

Yamamoto, Naohide; Philbeck, John W.; Woods, Adam J.; Gajewski, Daniel A.; Arthur, Joeanna C.; Potolicchio, Samuel J.; Levy, Lucien; Caputy, Anthony J.

2014-01-01

Path integration is a process in which observers derive their location by integrating self-motion signals along their locomotion trajectory. Although the medial temporal lobe (MTL) is thought to take part in path integration, the scope of its role for path integration remains unclear. To address this issue, we administered a variety of tasks involving path integration and other related processes to a group of neurosurgical patients whose MTL was unilaterally resected as therapy for epilepsy. These patients were unimpaired relative to neurologically intact controls in many tasks that required integration of various kinds of sensory self-motion information. However, the same patients (especially those who had lesions in the right hemisphere) walked farther than the controls when attempting to walk without vision to a previewed target. Importantly, this task was unique in our test battery in that it allowed participants to form a mental representation of the target location and anticipate their upcoming walking trajectory before they began moving. Thus, these results put forth a new idea that the role of MTL structures for human path integration may stem from their participation in predicting the consequences of one's locomotor actions. The strengths of this new theoretical viewpoint are discussed. PMID:24802000

Path integrals and the WKB approximation in loop quantum cosmology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ashtekar, Abhay; Campiglia, Miguel; Henderson, Adam

2010-12-01

We follow the Feynman procedure to obtain a path integral formulation of loop quantum cosmology starting from the Hilbert space framework. Quantum geometry effects modify the weight associated with each path so that the effective measure on the space of paths is different from that used in the Wheeler-DeWitt theory. These differences introduce some conceptual subtleties in arriving at the WKB approximation. But the approximation is well defined and provides intuition for the differences between loop quantum cosmology and the Wheeler-DeWitt theory from a path integral perspective.

Perfect discretization of path integrals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Steinhaus, Sebastian

2012-05-01

In order to obtain a well-defined path integral one often employs discretizations. In the case of General Relativity these generically break diffeomorphism symmetry, which has severe consequences since these symmetries determine the dynamics of the corresponding system. In this article we consider the path integral of reparametrization invariant systems as a toy example and present an improvement procedure for the discretized propagator. Fixed points and convergence of the procedure are discussed. Furthermore we show that a reparametrization invariant path integral implies discretization independence and acts as a projector onto physical states.

Master equations and the theory of stochastic path integrals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weber, Markus F.; Frey, Erwin

2017-04-01

This review provides a pedagogic and self-contained introduction to master equations and to their representation by path integrals. Since the 1930s, master equations have served as a fundamental tool to understand the role of fluctuations in complex biological, chemical, and physical systems. Despite their simple appearance, analyses of master equations most often rely on low-noise approximations such as the Kramers-Moyal or the system size expansion, or require ad-hoc closure schemes for the derivation of low-order moment equations. We focus on numerical and analytical methods going beyond the low-noise limit and provide a unified framework for the study of master equations. After deriving the forward and backward master equations from the Chapman-Kolmogorov equation, we show how the two master equations can be cast into either of four linear partial differential equations (PDEs). Three of these PDEs are discussed in detail. The first PDE governs the time evolution of a generalized probability generating function whose basis depends on the stochastic process under consideration. Spectral methods, WKB approximations, and a variational approach have been proposed for the analysis of the PDE. The second PDE is novel and is obeyed by a distribution that is marginalized over an initial state. It proves useful for the computation of mean extinction times. The third PDE describes the time evolution of a ‘generating functional’, which generalizes the so-called Poisson representation. Subsequently, the solutions of the PDEs are expressed in terms of two path integrals: a ‘forward’ and a ‘backward’ path integral. Combined with inverse transformations, one obtains two distinct path integral representations of the conditional probability distribution solving the master equations. We exemplify both path integrals in analysing elementary chemical reactions. Moreover, we show how a well-known path integral representation of averaged observables can be recovered from them. Upon expanding the forward and the backward path integrals around stationary paths, we then discuss and extend a recent method for the computation of rare event probabilities. Besides, we also derive path integral representations for processes with continuous state spaces whose forward and backward master equations admit Kramers-Moyal expansions. A truncation of the backward expansion at the level of a diffusion approximation recovers a classic path integral representation of the (backward) Fokker-Planck equation. One can rewrite this path integral in terms of an Onsager-Machlup function and, for purely diffusive Brownian motion, it simplifies to the path integral of Wiener. To make this review accessible to a broad community, we have used the language of probability theory rather than quantum (field) theory and do not assume any knowledge of the latter. The probabilistic structures underpinning various technical concepts, such as coherent states, the Doi-shift, and normal-ordered observables, are thereby made explicit.

Master equations and the theory of stochastic path integrals.

PubMed

Weber, Markus F; Frey, Erwin

2017-04-01

This review provides a pedagogic and self-contained introduction to master equations and to their representation by path integrals. Since the 1930s, master equations have served as a fundamental tool to understand the role of fluctuations in complex biological, chemical, and physical systems. Despite their simple appearance, analyses of master equations most often rely on low-noise approximations such as the Kramers-Moyal or the system size expansion, or require ad-hoc closure schemes for the derivation of low-order moment equations. We focus on numerical and analytical methods going beyond the low-noise limit and provide a unified framework for the study of master equations. After deriving the forward and backward master equations from the Chapman-Kolmogorov equation, we show how the two master equations can be cast into either of four linear partial differential equations (PDEs). Three of these PDEs are discussed in detail. The first PDE governs the time evolution of a generalized probability generating function whose basis depends on the stochastic process under consideration. Spectral methods, WKB approximations, and a variational approach have been proposed for the analysis of the PDE. The second PDE is novel and is obeyed by a distribution that is marginalized over an initial state. It proves useful for the computation of mean extinction times. The third PDE describes the time evolution of a 'generating functional', which generalizes the so-called Poisson representation. Subsequently, the solutions of the PDEs are expressed in terms of two path integrals: a 'forward' and a 'backward' path integral. Combined with inverse transformations, one obtains two distinct path integral representations of the conditional probability distribution solving the master equations. We exemplify both path integrals in analysing elementary chemical reactions. Moreover, we show how a well-known path integral representation of averaged observables can be recovered from them. Upon expanding the forward and the backward path integrals around stationary paths, we then discuss and extend a recent method for the computation of rare event probabilities. Besides, we also derive path integral representations for processes with continuous state spaces whose forward and backward master equations admit Kramers-Moyal expansions. A truncation of the backward expansion at the level of a diffusion approximation recovers a classic path integral representation of the (backward) Fokker-Planck equation. One can rewrite this path integral in terms of an Onsager-Machlup function and, for purely diffusive Brownian motion, it simplifies to the path integral of Wiener. To make this review accessible to a broad community, we have used the language of probability theory rather than quantum (field) theory and do not assume any knowledge of the latter. The probabilistic structures underpinning various technical concepts, such as coherent states, the Doi-shift, and normal-ordered observables, are thereby made explicit.

Crustal Seismic Attenuation in Germany Measured with Acoustic Radiative Transfer Theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gaebler, Peter J.; Eulenfeld, Tom; Wegler, Ulrich

2017-04-01

This work is carried out in the context of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT). As part of this treaty a verification regime was introduced to detect, locate and characterize nuclear explosion testings. The study of seismology can provide essential information in the form of broadband waveform recordings for the identification and verification of these critical events. A profound knowledge of the Earth's subsurface between source and receiver is required for a detailed description of the seismic wave field. In addition to underground parameters such as seismic velocity or anisotropy, information about seismic attenuation values of the medium are required. Goal of this study is the creation of a comprehensive model of crustal seismic attenuation in Germany and adjacent areas. Over 20 years of earthquake data from the German Central Seismological Observatory data archive is used to estimate the spatial dependent distribution of seismic intrinsic and scattering attenuation of S-waves for frequencies between 0.5 and 20 Hz. The attenuation models are estimated by fitting synthetic seismogram envelopes calculated with acoustic radiative transfer theory to observed seismogram envelopes. This theory describes the propagation of seismic S-energy under the assumption of multiple isotropic scattering, the crustal structure of the scattering medium is hereby represented by a half-space model. We present preliminary results of the spatial distribution of intrinsic attenuation represented by the absorption path length, as well as of scattering attenuation in terms of the mean free path and compare the outcomes to results from previous studies. Furthermore catalog magnitudes are compared to moment magnitudes estimated during the inversion process. Additionally site amplification factors of the stations are presented.

Hybrid modelling of a high-power X-ray attenuator plasma.

PubMed

Martín Ortega, Álvaro; Lacoste, Ana; Minea, Tiberiu

2018-05-01

X-ray gas attenuators act as stress-free high-pass filters for synchrotron and free-electron laser beamlines to reduce the heat load in downstream optical elements without affecting other properties of the X-ray beam. The absorption of the X-ray beam triggers a cascade of processes that ionize and heat up the gas locally, changing its density and therefore the X-ray absorption. Aiming to understand and predict the behaviour of the gas attenuator in terms of efficiency versus gas pressure, a hybrid model has been developed, combining three approaches: an analytical description of the X-ray absorption; Monte Carlo for the electron thermalization; and a fluid treatment for the electron diffusion, recombination and excited-states relaxation. The model was applied to an argon-filled attenuator prototype built and tested at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility, at a pressure of 200 mbar and assuming stationary conditions. The results of the model showed that the electron population thermalizes within a few nanoseconds after the X-ray pulse arrival and it occurs just around the X-ray beam path, recombining in the bulk of the gas rather than diffusing to the attenuator walls. The gas temperature along the beam path reached 850 K for 770 W of incident power and 182 W m -1 of absorbed power. Around 70% of the absorbed power is released as visible and UV radiation rather than as heat to the gas. Comparison of the power absorption with the experiment showed an overall agreement both with the plasma radial profile and power absorption trend, the latter within an error smaller than 20%. This model can be used for the design and operation of synchrotron gas attenuators and as a base for a time-dependent model for free-electron laser attenuators.

PathCase-SB architecture and database design

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Integration of metabolic pathways resources and regulatory metabolic network models, and deploying new tools on the integrated platform can help perform more effective and more efficient systems biology research on understanding the regulation in metabolic networks. Therefore, the tasks of (a) integrating under a single database environment regulatory metabolic networks and existing models, and (b) building tools to help with modeling and analysis are desirable and intellectually challenging computational tasks. Description PathCase Systems Biology (PathCase-SB) is built and released. The PathCase-SB database provides data and API for multiple user interfaces and software tools. The current PathCase-SB system provides a database-enabled framework and web-based computational tools towards facilitating the development of kinetic models for biological systems. PathCase-SB aims to integrate data of selected biological data sources on the web (currently, BioModels database and KEGG), and to provide more powerful and/or new capabilities via the new web-based integrative framework. This paper describes architecture and database design issues encountered in PathCase-SB's design and implementation, and presents the current design of PathCase-SB's architecture and database. Conclusions PathCase-SB architecture and database provide a highly extensible and scalable environment with easy and fast (real-time) access to the data in the database. PathCase-SB itself is already being used by researchers across the world. PMID:22070889

Assessing the weather monitoring capabilities of cellular microwave link networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fencl, Martin; Vrzba, Miroslav; Rieckermann, Jörg; Bareš, Vojtěch

2016-04-01

Using of microwave links for rainfall monitoring was suggested already by (Atlas and Ulbrich, 1977). However, this technique attracted broader attention of scientific community only in the recent decade, with the extensive growth of cellular microwave link (CML) networks, which form the backbone of today's cellular telecommunication infrastructure. Several studies have already shown that CMLs can be conveniently used as weather sensors and have potential to provide near-ground path-integrated observations of rainfall but also humidity or fog. However, although research is still focusing on algorithms to improve the weather sensing capabilities (Fencl et al., 2015), it is not clear how to convince cellular operators to provide the power levels of their network. One step in this direction is to show in which regions or municipalities the networks are sufficiently dense to provide/develop good services. In this contribution we suggest a standardized approach to evaluate CML networks in terms of rainfall observation and to identify suitable regions for CML rainfall monitoring. We estimate precision of single CML based on its sensitivity to rainfall, i.e. as a function of frequency, polarization and path length. Capability of a network to capture rainfall spatial patterns is estimated from the CML coverage and path lengths considering that single CML provides path-integrated rain rates. We also search for suitable predictors for regions where no network topologies are available. We test our approach on several European networks and discuss the results. Our results show that CMLs are very dense in urban areas (> 1 CML/km2), but less in rural areas (< 0.02 CML/km2). We found a strong correlation between a population and CML network density (e.g. R2 = 0.97 in Czech Republic), thus population could be a simple proxy to identify suitable regions for CML weather monitoring. To enable a simple and efficient assessment of the CML monitoring potential for any region worldwide, we are currently integrating our approach into open source online tool. In summary, our results demonstrate that CML represent promising environmental observation network, suitable especially for urban rainfall monitoring. The developed approach integrated into an open source online tool can be conveniently used e.g. by local operators or authorities to evaluate the suitability of their region for CML weather monitoring and estimate the credible spatial-resolution of a CML weather monitoring product. Atlas, D. and Ulbrich, C. W. (1977) Path- and Area-Integrated Rainfall Measurement by Microwave Attenuation in the 1-3 cm Band. Journal of Applied Meteorology, 16(12), 1322-1331. Fencl, M., Rieckermann, J., Sýkora, P., Stránský, D., and Bareš, V. (2015) Commercial microwave links instead of rain gauges: fiction or reality? Water Science & Technology, 71(1), 31. Acknowledgements to Czech Science Foundation project No. 14-22978S and Czech Technical University in Prague project No. SGS15/050/OHK1/1T/11.

Understanding Laterally Varying Path Effects on P/S Ratios and their Effectiveness for Event Discrimination at Local Distances

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pyle, M. L.; Walter, W. R.

2017-12-01

Discrimination between underground explosions and naturally occurring earthquakes is an important endeavor for global security and test-ban treaty monitoring, and ratios of seismic P to S-wave amplitudes at regional distances have proven to be an effective discriminant. The use of the P/S ratio is rooted in the idea that explosive sources should theoretically only generate compressional energy. While, in practice, shear energy is observed from explosions, generally when corrections are made for magnitude and distance, P/S ratios from explosions are higher than those from surrounding earthquakes. At local distances (< 200 km) that might be needed to detect smaller events, however, this discriminant becomes less reliable. While ratios at some stations still show separation between earthquake and explosion populations, at other stations the populations are indistinguishable. There is no clear distance or azimuthal trend for which stations show discriminating abilities and which do not. A number of factors may play a role in differences we see between regional and local discrimination, including source effects such as depth and radiation pattern, and path effects such as laterally varying attenuation and focusing/defocusing from layers and scattering. We use data from the Source Physics Experiment (SPE) to investigate some of these effects. SPE is a series of chemical explosions at the Nevada National Security Site (NNSS) designed to improve our understanding and modeling capabilities of shear waves generated by explosions. Phase I consisted of 5 explosions in granite and Phase II will move to a contrasting dry alluvium geology. We apply a high-resolution 2D attenuation model to events near the NNSS to examine what effect path plays in local P/S ratios, and how well an earthquake-derived model can account for shallower explosion paths. The model incorporates both intrinsic attenuation and scattering effects and extends to 16 Hz, allowing us to make lateral path corrections and consider high-frequency ratios. Preliminary work suggests that while 2D path corrections modestly improve earthquake amplitude predictions, explosion amplitudes are not well matched, and so P/S ratios do not necessarily improve. Further work is needed to better understand the uses and limitation of 2D path corrections for local P/S ratios.

The path dependency theory: analytical framework to study institutional integration. The case of France.

PubMed

Trouvé, Hélène; Couturier, Yves; Etheridge, Francis; Saint-Jean, Olivier; Somme, Dominique

2010-06-30

The literature on integration indicates the need for an enhanced theorization of institutional integration. This article proposes path dependence as an analytical framework to study the systems in which integration takes place. PRISMA proposes a model for integrating health and social care services for older adults. This model was initially tested in Quebec. The PRISMA France study gave us an opportunity to analyze institutional integration in France. A qualitative approach was used. Analyses were based on semi-structured interviews with actors of all levels of decision-making, observations of advisory board meetings, and administrative documents. Our analyses revealed the complexity and fragmentation of institutional integration. The path dependency theory, which analyzes the change capacity of institutions by taking into account their historic structures, allows analysis of this situation. The path dependency to the Bismarckian system and the incomplete reforms of gerontological policies generate the coexistence and juxtaposition of institutional systems. In such a context, no institution has sufficient ability to determine gerontology policy and build institutional integration by itself. Using path dependence as an analytical framework helps to understand the reasons why institutional integration is critical to organizational and clinical integration, and the complex construction of institutional integration in France.

Two-path plasmonic interferometer with integrated detector

DOEpatents

Dyer, Gregory Conrad; Shaner, Eric A.; Aizin, Gregory

2016-03-29

An electrically tunable terahertz two-path plasmonic interferometer with an integrated detection element can down convert a terahertz field to a rectified DC signal. The integrated detector utilizes a resonant plasmonic homodyne mixing mechanism that measures the component of the plasma waves in-phase with an excitation field that functions as the local oscillator in the mixer. The plasmonic interferometer comprises two independently tuned electrical paths. The plasmonic interferometer enables a spectrometer-on-a-chip where the tuning of electrical path length plays an analogous role to that of physical path length in macroscopic Fourier transform interferometers.

Reduction of the Buildup Contribution in Gamma Ray Attenuation Measurements and a New Way to Study This Experiment in a Student Laboratory

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Adamides, E.; Kavadjiklis, A.; Koutroubas, S.K.; Moshonas, N.; Tzedakis, A.; Yiasemides, K.

2014-01-01

In continuation of our investigation into the buildup phenomenon appearing in gamma ray attenuation measurements in laboratory experiments we study the dependence of the buildup factor on the area of the absorber in an effort to reduce the buildup of photons. Detailed measurements are performed for up to two mean free paths of [superscript 60]Co…

The path integral on the pseudosphere

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grosche, C.; Steiner, F.

1988-02-01

A rigorous path integral treatment for the d-dimensional pseudosphere Λd-1 , a Riemannian manifold of constant negative curvature, is presented. The path integral formulation is based on a canonical approach using Weyl-ordering and the Hamiltonian path integral defined on midpoints. The time-dependent and energy-dependent Feynman kernels obtain different expressions in the even- and odd-dimensional cases, respectively. The special case of the three-dimensional pseudosphere, which is analytically equivalent to the Poincaré upper half plane, the Poincaré disc, and the hyperbolic strip, is discussed in detail including the energy spectrum and the normalised wave-functions.

The PL/OPA Multichannel Transmissometer Control and Data Acquisition System

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-12-12

System Calibration and Data Reduction Voltages vi output from the transmissometer measuring beam attenuation over an 7 atmospheric path must be...supporting measurements of extinction and particle counts from visibility meters (0.89 pm) and Particle Measurement Systems aerosol distrometers respectively...The Multichannel Transmissometer is shown schematically in Figures 2.0-1 and 2.0-2. Measurements are made over the two-way path from transmitter

Tissue characterization with ballistic photons: counting scattering and/or absorption centres

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Corral, F.; Strojnik, M.; Paez, G.

2015-03-01

We describe a new method to separate ballistic from the scattered photons for optical tissue characterization. It is based on the hypothesis that the scattered photons acquire a phase delay. The photons passing through the sample without scattering or absorption preserve their coherence so they may participate in interference. We implement a Mach-Zehnder experimental setup where the ballistic photons pass through the sample with the delay caused uniquely by the sample indices of refraction. We incorporate a movable mirror on the piezoelectric actuator in the sample arm to detect the amplitude of the modulation term. We present the theory that predicts the path-integrated (or total) concentration of the scattering and absorption centres. The proposed technique may characterize samples with transmission attenuation of ballistic photons by a factor of 10-14.

Formulation of D-brane Dynamics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Evans, Thomas

2012-03-01

It is the purpose of this paper (within the context of STS rules & guidelines ``research report'') to formulate a statistical-mechanical form of D-brane dynamics. We consider first the path integral formulation of quantum mechanics, and extend this to a path-integral formulation of D-brane mechanics, summing over all the possible path integral sectors of R-R, NS charged states. We then investigate this generalization utilizing a path-integral formulation summing over all the possible path integral sectors of R-R charged states, calculated from the mean probability tree-level amplitude of type I, IIA, and IIB strings, serving as a generalization of all strings described by D-branes. We utilize this generalization to study black holes in regimes where the initial D-brane system is legitimate, and further this generalization to look at information loss near regions of nonlocality on a non-ordinary event horizon. We see here that in these specific regimes, we can calculate a path integral formulation, as describing D0-brane mechanics, tracing the dissipation of entropy throughout the event horizon. This is used to study the information paradox, and to propose a resolution between the phenomena and the correct and expected quantum mechanical description. This is done as our path integral throughout entropy entering the event horizon effectively and correctly encodes the initial state in subtle correlations in the Hawking radiation.

Ultrasound Attenuation in Normal Fluid 3He in 98% Aerogel: Knudsen-to-Hydrodynamic Crossover

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Yoonseok; Choi, H. C.; Moon, B. H.; Masuhara, N.; Meisel, M. W.; Takeuchi, H.; Higashitani, S.; Nagai, K.; Mulders, N.

2014-03-01

Mass flow in porous media is a widely occurring phenomenon as in water flow in aquifers, blood flow in vessels, and petroleum flow through sandstones. However, the understanding of these phenomena is a challenging task. In particular, when the mean free path of the fluid particles exceeds the pore size, the hydrodynamic description breaks down and the fluid mass is carried by the Knudsen diffusion. The 3He-aerogel system offers an opportunity that allows a systematic investigation of a wide range flow phenomena from the hydrodynamic to Knudsen regime owing to the strongly temperature dependent mean free path in liquid 3He at low temperatures. In this paper, we present ultrasound attenuation measurements of liquid 3He in 98% aerogel. The Knudsen-hydrodynamic crossover is clearly demonstrated in a drastic change in the temperature dependence in attenuation observed in this system. H. Takeuchi et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 108, 225307 (2012). Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research No. 21540365 and No. 22103003 by MEXT of Japan and NSF DMR-0803516, DMR-0654118, and the State of Florida.

Relativistic heavy cosmic rays

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mewaldt, R. A.; Fernandez, J. I.; Israel, M. H.; Klarmann, J.; Binns, W. R.

1972-01-01

During three balloon flights of a 1 sq m sr ionization chamber/Cerenkov counter detector system, measurements were made of the atmospheric attenuation, flux, and charge composition of cosmic ray nuclei with 16 is less than or = Z is less than or = 30 and rigidity greater than 4.5 GV. The attenuation mean free path in air of VH (20 less than or = Z less than or = 30) nuclei is found to be 19.7 + or - 1.6 g/sq cm, a value somewhat greater than the best previous measurement. The attenuation mean free path of iron is found to be 15.6 + or - 2.2 g/sq cm, consistent with predictions of geometric cross-section formulae. An absolute flux of VH nuclei 10 to 20% higher than earlier experiments at similar geomagnetic cutoff and level of solar activity was measured. The relative abundances of even-charged nuclei are found to be in good agreement with results of other recent high resolution counter experiments. The observed cosmic ray chemical composition implies relative abundances at the cosmic ray source of Ca/Fe = 0.12 + or - 0.04 and S/Fe = 0.14 + or - 0.05.

All-Optical Wavelength-Path Service With Quality Assurance by Multilayer Integration System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yagi, Mikio; Tanaka, Shinya; Satomi, Shuichi; Ryu, Shiro; Asano, Shoichiro

2006-09-01

In the future all-optical network controlled by generalized multiprotocol label switching (GMPLS), the wavelength path between end nodes will change dynamically. This inevitably means that the fiber parameters along the wavelength path will also vary. This variation in fiber parameters influences the signal quality of high-speed-transmission system (bit rates over 40 Gb/s). Therefore, at a path setup, the fiber-parameter effect should be adequately compensated. Moreover, the path setup must be completed fast enough to meet the network-application demands. To realize the rapid setup of adequate paths, a multilayer integration system for all-optical wavelength-path quality assurance is proposed. This multilayer integration system is evaluated in a field trial. In the trial, the GMPLS control plane, measurement plane, and data plane coordinated to maintain the quality of a 40-Gb/s wavelength path that would otherwise be degraded by the influence of chromatic dispersion. It is also demonstrated that the multilayer integration system can assure the signal quality in the face of not only chromatic dispersion but also degradation in the optical signal-to-noise ratio by the use of a 2R regeneration system. Our experiments confirm that the proposed multilayer integration system is an essential part of future all-optical networks.

Path Integral Computation of Quantum Free Energy Differences Due to Alchemical Transformations Involving Mass and Potential.

PubMed

Pérez, Alejandro; von Lilienfeld, O Anatole

2011-08-09

Thermodynamic integration, perturbation theory, and λ-dynamics methods were applied to path integral molecular dynamics calculations to investigate free energy differences due to "alchemical" transformations. Several estimators were formulated to compute free energy differences in solvable model systems undergoing changes in mass and/or potential. Linear and nonlinear alchemical interpolations were used for the thermodynamic integration. We find improved convergence for the virial estimators, as well as for the thermodynamic integration over nonlinear interpolation paths. Numerical results for the perturbative treatment of changes in mass and electric field strength in model systems are presented. We used thermodynamic integration in ab initio path integral molecular dynamics to compute the quantum free energy difference of the isotope transformation in the Zundel cation. The performance of different free energy methods is discussed.

Path integrals, supersymmetric quantum mechanics, and the Atiyah-Singer index theorem for twisted Dirac

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fine, Dana S.; Sawin, Stephen

2017-01-01

Feynman's time-slicing construction approximates the path integral by a product, determined by a partition of a finite time interval, of approximate propagators. This paper formulates general conditions to impose on a short-time approximation to the propagator in a general class of imaginary-time quantum mechanics on a Riemannian manifold which ensure that these products converge. The limit defines a path integral which agrees pointwise with the heat kernel for a generalized Laplacian. The result is a rigorous construction of the propagator for supersymmetric quantum mechanics, with potential, as a path integral. Further, the class of Laplacians includes the square of the twisted Dirac operator, which corresponds to an extension of N = 1/2 supersymmetric quantum mechanics. General results on the rate of convergence of the approximate path integrals suffice in this case to derive the local version of the Atiyah-Singer index theorem.

The path integral on the Poincaré upper half-plane with a magnetic field and for the Morse potential

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grosche, Christian

1988-10-01

Rigorous path integral treatments on the Poincaré upper half-plane with a magnetic field and for the Morse potential are presented. The calculation starts with the path integral on the Poincaré upper half-plane with a magnetic field. By a Fourier expansion and a non-linear transformation this problem is reformulated in terms of the path integral for the Morse potential. This latter problem can be reduced by an appropriate space-time transformation to the path integral for the harmonic oscillator with generalised angular momentum, a technique which has been developed in recent years. The well-known solution for the last problem enables one to give explicit expressions for the Feynman kernels for the Morse potential and for the Poincaré upper half-plane with magnetic field, respectively. The wavefunctions and the energy spectrum for the bound and scattering states are given, respectively.

Study of long path VLF signal propagation characteristics as observed from Indian Antarctic station, Maitri

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sasmal, Sudipta; Pal, Sujay; Chakrabarti, Sandip K.

2014-10-01

To examine the quality and propagation characteristics of the Very Low Frequency (VLF) radio waves in a very long propagation path, Indian Centre for Space Physics, Kolkata, participated in the 27th Indian scientific expedition to Antarctica during 2007-2008. One Stanford University made AWESOME VLF receiving system was installed at the Indian Antarctic station Maitri and about five weeks of data were recorded successfully from the Indian transmitter VTX and several other transmitting stations worldwide. The quality of the signal from the VTX transmitter was found to be very good, consistent and highly stable in day and night. The signal shows the evidences of the presence of the 24 h solar radiation in the Antarctic region during local summer. Here we report the both narrow band and broadband VLF observations from this site. The diurnal variations of VTX signal (18.2 kHz) are presented systematically for Antarctica path and also compared the same with the variations for a short propagation path (VTX-Kolkata). We compute the spatial distribution of the VTX signal along the VTX-Antarctica path using the most well-known LWPC model for an all-day and all-night propagation conditions. The calculated signal amplitudes corresponding to those conditions relatively corroborate the observations. We also present the attenuation rate of the dominant waveguide modes corresponding to those propagation conditions where the effects of the Antarctic polar ice on the attenuation of different propagating waveguide modes are visible.

The path dependency theory: analytical framework to study institutional integration. The case of France

PubMed Central

Trouvé, Hélène; Couturier, Yves; Etheridge, Francis; Saint-Jean, Olivier; Somme, Dominique

2010-01-01

Background The literature on integration indicates the need for an enhanced theorization of institutional integration. This article proposes path dependence as an analytical framework to study the systems in which integration takes place. Purpose PRISMA proposes a model for integrating health and social care services for older adults. This model was initially tested in Quebec. The PRISMA France study gave us an opportunity to analyze institutional integration in France. Methods A qualitative approach was used. Analyses were based on semi-structured interviews with actors of all levels of decision-making, observations of advisory board meetings, and administrative documents. Results Our analyses revealed the complexity and fragmentation of institutional integration. The path dependency theory, which analyzes the change capacity of institutions by taking into account their historic structures, allows analysis of this situation. The path dependency to the Bismarckian system and the incomplete reforms of gerontological policies generate the coexistence and juxtaposition of institutional systems. In such a context, no institution has sufficient ability to determine gerontology policy and build institutional integration by itself. Conclusion Using path dependence as an analytical framework helps to understand the reasons why institutional integration is critical to organizational and clinical integration, and the complex construction of institutional integration in France. PMID:20689740

Mnemonic discrimination relates to perforant path integrity: An ultra-high resolution diffusion tensor imaging study.

PubMed

Bennett, Ilana J; Stark, Craig E L

2016-03-01

Pattern separation describes the orthogonalization of similar inputs into unique, non-overlapping representations. This computational process is thought to serve memory by reducing interference and to be mediated by the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus. Using ultra-high in-plane resolution diffusion tensor imaging (hrDTI) in older adults, we previously demonstrated that integrity of the perforant path, which provides input to the dentate gyrus from entorhinal cortex, was associated with mnemonic discrimination, a behavioral outcome designed to load on pattern separation. The current hrDTI study assessed the specificity of this perforant path integrity-mnemonic discrimination relationship relative to other cognitive constructs (identified using a factor analysis) and white matter tracts (hippocampal cingulum, fornix, corpus callosum) in 112 healthy adults (20-87 years). Results revealed age-related declines in integrity of the perforant path and other medial temporal lobe (MTL) tracts (hippocampal cingulum, fornix). Controlling for global effects of brain aging, perforant path integrity related only to the factor that captured mnemonic discrimination performance. Comparable integrity-mnemonic discrimination relationships were also observed for the hippocampal cingulum and fornix. Thus, whereas perforant path integrity specifically relates to mnemonic discrimination, mnemonic discrimination may be mediated by a broader MTL network. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Optical Attenuation Coefficient Meter

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-06-22

detector 43 is measured and recorded at the Pico Scope 80 to validate the laser pulse strength (which is proportional to the output and time wave shape ...unusable. [0004] As such, there is a need for a meter, recognizing back scattering by a pulsed laser source, that would allow a propagation path which...an attenuation meter with a transmitter and receiver is provided in which the transmitter produces a laser pulse of a duration and water

Flat panel X-ray detector with reduced internal scattering for improved attenuation accuracy and dynamic range

DOEpatents

Smith, Peter D [Santa Fe, NM; Claytor, Thomas N [White Rock, NM; Berry, Phillip C [Albuquerque, NM; Hills, Charles R [Los Alamos, NM

2010-10-12

An x-ray detector is disclosed that has had all unnecessary material removed from the x-ray beam path, and all of the remaining material in the beam path made as light and as low in atomic number as possible. The resulting detector is essentially transparent to x-rays and, thus, has greatly reduced internal scatter. The result of this is that x-ray attenuation data measured for the object under examination are much more accurate and have an increased dynamic range. The benefits of this improvement are that beam hardening corrections can be made accurately, that computed tomography reconstructions can be used for quantitative determination of material properties including density and atomic number, and that lower exposures may be possible as a result of the increased dynamic range.

Secure communications with low-orbit spacecraft using quantum cryptography

DOEpatents

Hughes, Richard J.; Buttler, William T.; Kwiat, Paul G.; Luther, Gabriel G.; Morgan, George L; Nordholt, Jane E.; Peterson, Charles G.; Simmons, Charles M.

1999-01-01

Apparatus and method for secure communication between an earth station and spacecraft. A laser outputs single pulses that are split into preceding bright pulses and delayed attenuated pulses, and polarized. A Pockels cell changes the polarization of the polarized delayed attenuated pulses according to a string of random numbers, a first polarization representing a "1," and a second polarization representing a "0." At the receiving station, a beamsplitter randomly directs the preceding bright pulses and the polarized delayed attenuated pulses onto longer and shorter paths, both terminating in a beamsplitter which directs the preceding bright pulses and a first portion of the polarized delayed attenuated pulses to a first detector, and a second portion of the polarized delayed attenuated pulses to a second detector to generate a key for secure communication between the earth station and the spacecraft.

Sensory feedback in a bump attractor model of path integration.

PubMed

Poll, Daniel B; Nguyen, Khanh; Kilpatrick, Zachary P

2016-04-01

Mammalian spatial navigation systems utilize several different sensory information channels. This information is converted into a neural code that represents the animal's current position in space by engaging place cell, grid cell, and head direction cell networks. In particular, sensory landmark (allothetic) cues can be utilized in concert with an animal's knowledge of its own velocity (idiothetic) cues to generate a more accurate representation of position than path integration provides on its own (Battaglia et al. The Journal of Neuroscience 24(19):4541-4550 (2004)). We develop a computational model that merges path integration with feedback from external sensory cues that provide a reliable representation of spatial position along an annular track. Starting with a continuous bump attractor model, we explore the impact of synaptic spatial asymmetry and heterogeneity, which disrupt the position code of the path integration process. We use asymptotic analysis to reduce the bump attractor model to a single scalar equation whose potential represents the impact of asymmetry and heterogeneity. Such imperfections cause errors to build up when the network performs path integration, but these errors can be corrected by an external control signal representing the effects of sensory cues. We demonstrate that there is an optimal strength and decay rate of the control signal when cues appear either periodically or randomly. A similar analysis is performed when errors in path integration arise from dynamic noise fluctuations. Again, there is an optimal strength and decay of discrete control that minimizes the path integration error.

Path Loss Prediction Over the Lunar Surface Utilizing a Modified Longley-Rice Irregular Terrain Model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Foore, Larry; Ida, Nathan

2007-01-01

This study introduces the use of a modified Longley-Rice irregular terrain model and digital elevation data representative of an analogue lunar site for the prediction of RF path loss over the lunar surface. The results are validated by theoretical models and past Apollo studies. The model is used to approximate the path loss deviation from theoretical attenuation over a reflecting sphere. Analysis of the simulation results provides statistics on the fade depths for frequencies of interest, and correspondingly a method for determining the maximum range of communications for various coverage confidence intervals. Communication system engineers and mission planners are provided a link margin and path loss policy for communication frequencies of interest.

Eddy Covariance Measurements of Methane Flux Using an Open-Path Gas Analyzer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burba, G.; Anderson, T.; Zona, D.; Schedlbauer, J.; Anderson, D.; Eckles, R.; Hastings, S.; Ikawa, H.; McDermitt, D.; Oberbauer, S.; Oechel, W.; Riensche, B.; Starr, G.; Sturtevant, C.; Xu, L.

2008-12-01

Methane is an important greenhouse gas with a warming potential of about 23 times that of carbon dioxide over a 100-year cycle (Houghton et al., 2001). Measurements of methane fluxes from the terrestrial biosphere have mostly been made using flux chambers, which have many advantages, but are discrete in time and space and may disturb surface integrity and air pressure. Open-path analyzers offer a number of advantages for measuring methane fluxes, including undisturbed in- situ flux measurements, spatial integration using the Eddy Covariance approach, zero frequency response errors due to tube attenuation, confident water and thermal density terms from co-located fast measurements of water and sonic temperature, and remote deployment due to lower power demands in the absence of a pump. The prototype open-path methane analyzer is a VCSEL (vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser)-based instrument. It employs an open Herriott cell and measures levels of methane with RMS noise below 6 ppb at 10 Hz sampling in controlled laboratory environment. Field maintenance is minimized by a self-cleaning mechanism to keep the lower mirror free of contamination. Eddy Covariance measurements of methane flux using the prototype open-path methane analyzer are presented for the period between 2006 and 2008 in three ecosystems with contrasting weather and moisture conditions: (1) Fluxes over a short-hydroperiod sawgrass wetland in the Florida Everglades were measured in a warm and humid environment with temperatures often exceeding 25oC, variable winds, and frequent heavy dew at night; (2) Fluxes over coastal wetlands in an Arctic tundra were measured in an environment with frequent sub-zero temperatures, moderate winds, and ocean mist; (3) Fluxes over pacific mangroves in Mexico were measured in an environment with moderate air temperatures high winds, and sea spray. Presented eddy covariance flux data were collected from a co-located prototype open-path methane analyzer, LI-7500, and sonic anemometer at a 10 Hz rate. Data were processed using EdiRe software following standard FluxNet methodology, including stationarity tests, frequency response, and Webb- Pearman-Leuning density terms. Further details are provided in the extended conference paper at: ftp://ftp.licor.com/public/GBurba/AGU LI- 7700 Paper-2008.pdf

A Note on Feynman Path Integral for Electromagnetic External Fields

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Botelho, Luiz C. L.

2017-08-01

We propose a Fresnel stochastic white noise framework to analyze the nature of the Feynman paths entering on the Feynman Path Integral expression for the Feynman Propagator of a particle quantum mechanically moving under an external electromagnetic time-independent potential.

An Anatomically Constrained Model for Path Integration in the Bee Brain.

PubMed

Stone, Thomas; Webb, Barbara; Adden, Andrea; Weddig, Nicolai Ben; Honkanen, Anna; Templin, Rachel; Wcislo, William; Scimeca, Luca; Warrant, Eric; Heinze, Stanley

2017-10-23

Path integration is a widespread navigational strategy in which directional changes and distance covered are continuously integrated on an outward journey, enabling a straight-line return to home. Bees use vision for this task-a celestial-cue-based visual compass and an optic-flow-based visual odometer-but the underlying neural integration mechanisms are unknown. Using intracellular electrophysiology, we show that polarized-light-based compass neurons and optic-flow-based speed-encoding neurons converge in the central complex of the bee brain, and through block-face electron microscopy, we identify potential integrator cells. Based on plausible output targets for these cells, we propose a complete circuit for path integration and steering in the central complex, with anatomically identified neurons suggested for each processing step. The resulting model circuit is thus fully constrained biologically and provides a functional interpretation for many previously unexplained architectural features of the central complex. Moreover, we show that the receptive fields of the newly discovered speed neurons can support path integration for the holonomic motion (i.e., a ground velocity that is not precisely aligned with body orientation) typical of bee flight, a feature not captured in any previously proposed model of path integration. In a broader context, the model circuit presented provides a general mechanism for producing steering signals by comparing current and desired headings-suggesting a more basic function for central complex connectivity, from which path integration may have evolved. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Spin coherent-state path integrals and the instanton calculus

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Garg, Anupam; Kochetov, Evgueny; Park, Kee-Su; Stone, Michael

2003-01-01

We use an instanton approximation to the continuous-time spin coherent-state path integral to obtain the tunnel splitting of classically degenerate ground states. We show that provided the fluctuation determinant is carefully evaluated, the path integral expression is accurate to order O(1/j). We apply the method to the LMG model and to the molecular magnet Fe8 in a transverse field.

Variational nature, integration, and properties of Newton reaction path

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bofill, Josep Maria; Quapp, Wolfgang

2011-02-01

The distinguished coordinate path and the reduced gradient following path or its equivalent formulation, the Newton trajectory, are analyzed and unified using the theory of calculus of variations. It is shown that their minimum character is related to the fact that the curve is located in a valley region. In this case, we say that the Newton trajectory is a reaction path with the category of minimum energy path. In addition to these findings a Runge-Kutta-Fehlberg algorithm to integrate these curves is also proposed.

Variational nature, integration, and properties of Newton reaction path.

PubMed

Bofill, Josep Maria; Quapp, Wolfgang

2011-02-21

The distinguished coordinate path and the reduced gradient following path or its equivalent formulation, the Newton trajectory, are analyzed and unified using the theory of calculus of variations. It is shown that their minimum character is related to the fact that the curve is located in a valley region. In this case, we say that the Newton trajectory is a reaction path with the category of minimum energy path. In addition to these findings a Runge-Kutta-Fehlberg algorithm to integrate these curves is also proposed.

Path integration of head direction: updating a packet of neural activity at the correct speed using neuronal time constants.

PubMed

Walters, D M; Stringer, S M

2010-07-01

A key question in understanding the neural basis of path integration is how individual, spatially responsive, neurons may self-organize into networks that can, through learning, integrate velocity signals to update a continuous representation of location within an environment. It is of vital importance that this internal representation of position is updated at the correct speed, and in real time, to accurately reflect the motion of the animal. In this article, we present a biologically plausible model of velocity path integration of head direction that can solve this problem using neuronal time constants to effect natural time delays, over which associations can be learned through associative Hebbian learning rules. The model comprises a linked continuous attractor network and competitive network. In simulation, we show that the same model is able to learn two different speeds of rotation when implemented with two different values for the time constant, and without the need to alter any other model parameters. The proposed model could be extended to path integration of place in the environment, and path integration of spatial view.

From classical to quantum and back: Hamiltonian adaptive resolution path integral, ring polymer, and centroid molecular dynamics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kreis, Karsten; Kremer, Kurt; Potestio, Raffaello; Tuckerman, Mark E.

2017-12-01

Path integral-based methodologies play a crucial role for the investigation of nuclear quantum effects by means of computer simulations. However, these techniques are significantly more demanding than corresponding classical simulations. To reduce this numerical effort, we recently proposed a method, based on a rigorous Hamiltonian formulation, which restricts the quantum modeling to a small but relevant spatial region within a larger reservoir where particles are treated classically. In this work, we extend this idea and show how it can be implemented along with state-of-the-art path integral simulation techniques, including path-integral molecular dynamics, which allows for the calculation of quantum statistical properties, and ring-polymer and centroid molecular dynamics, which allow the calculation of approximate quantum dynamical properties. To this end, we derive a new integration algorithm that also makes use of multiple time-stepping. The scheme is validated via adaptive classical-path-integral simulations of liquid water. Potential applications of the proposed multiresolution method are diverse and include efficient quantum simulations of interfaces as well as complex biomolecular systems such as membranes and proteins.

Enzymatic Kinetic Isotope Effects from Path-Integral Free Energy Perturbation Theory.

PubMed

Gao, J

2016-01-01

Path-integral free energy perturbation (PI-FEP) theory is presented to directly determine the ratio of quantum mechanical partition functions of different isotopologs in a single simulation. Furthermore, a double averaging strategy is used to carry out the practical simulation, separating the quantum mechanical path integral exactly into two separate calculations, one corresponding to a classical molecular dynamics simulation of the centroid coordinates, and another involving free-particle path-integral sampling over the classical, centroid positions. An integrated centroid path-integral free energy perturbation and umbrella sampling (PI-FEP/UM, or simply, PI-FEP) method along with bisection sampling was summarized, which provides an accurate and fast convergent method for computing kinetic isotope effects for chemical reactions in solution and in enzymes. The PI-FEP method is illustrated by a number of applications, to highlight the computational precision and accuracy, the rule of geometrical mean in kinetic isotope effects, enhanced nuclear quantum effects in enzyme catalysis, and protein dynamics on temperature dependence of kinetic isotope effects. © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Architectural constraints are a major factor reducing path integration accuracy in the rat head direction cell system.

PubMed

Page, Hector J I; Walters, Daniel; Stringer, Simon M

2015-01-01

Head direction cells fire to signal the direction in which an animal's head is pointing. They are able to track head direction using only internally-derived information (path integration)In this simulation study we investigate the factors that affect path integration accuracy. Specifically, two major limiting factors are identified: rise time, the time after stimulation it takes for a neuron to start firing, and the presence of symmetric non-offset within-layer recurrent collateral connectivity. On the basis of the latter, the important prediction is made that head direction cell regions directly involved in path integration will not contain this type of connectivity; giving a theoretical explanation for architectural observations. Increased neuronal rise time is found to slow path integration, and the slowing effect for a given rise time is found to be more severe in the context of short conduction delays. Further work is suggested on the basis of our findings, which represent a valuable contribution to understanding of the head direction cell system.

Simplified path integral for supersymmetric quantum mechanics and type-A trace anomalies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bastianelli, Fiorenzo; Corradini, Olindo; Iacconi, Laura

2018-05-01

Particles in a curved space are classically described by a nonlinear sigma model action that can be quantized through path integrals. The latter require a precise regularization to deal with the derivative interactions arising from the nonlinear kinetic term. Recently, for maximally symmetric spaces, simplified path integrals have been developed: they allow to trade the nonlinear kinetic term with a purely quadratic kinetic term (linear sigma model). This happens at the expense of introducing a suitable effective scalar potential, which contains the information on the curvature of the space. The simplified path integral provides a sensible gain in the efficiency of perturbative calculations. Here we extend the construction to models with N = 1 supersymmetry on the worldline, which are applicable to the first quantized description of a Dirac fermion. As an application we use the simplified worldline path integral to compute the type-A trace anomaly of a Dirac fermion in d dimensions up to d = 16.

The CTS 11.7 GHz angle of arrival experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kwan, B. W.; Hodge, D. B.

1981-01-01

The objective of the experiment was to determine the statistical behavior of attenuation and angle of arrival on an Earth-space propagation path using the CTS 11.7 GHz beacon. Measurements performed from 1976 to 1978 form the data base for analysis. The statistics of the signal attenuation and phase variations due to atmospheric disturbances are presented. Rainfall rate distributions are also included to provide a link between the above effects on wave propagation and meteorological conditions.

Gas loading of graphene-quartz surface acoustic wave devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Whitehead, E. F.; Chick, E. M.; Bandhu, L.; Lawton, L. M.; Nash, G. R.

2013-08-01

Graphene was transferred to the propagation path of quartz surface acoustic wave devices and the attenuation due to gas loading of air and argon measured at 70 MHz and 210 MHz and compared to devices with no graphene. Under argon loading, there was no significant difference between the graphene and non-graphene device and the values of measured attenuation agree well with those calculated theoretically. Under air loading, at 210 MHz, there was a significant difference between the non-graphene and graphene devices, with the average value of attenuation obtained with the graphene devices being approximately twice that obtained from the bare quartz devices.

Design of a Ka-Band Propagation Terminal for Atmospheric Measurements in Polar Regions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Houts, Jacquelynne R.; Nessel, James A.; Zemba, Michael J.

2016-01-01

This paper describes the design and performance of a Ka-Band beacon receiver developed at NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) that will be installed alongside an existing Ka-Band Radiometer [2] located at the east end of the Svalbard Near Earth Network (NEN) complex. The goal of this experiment is to characterize rain fade attenuation to improve the performance of existing statistical rain attenuation models. The ground terminal developed by NASA GRC utilizes an FFT-based frequency estimation [3] receiver capable of characterizing total path attenuation effects due to gaseous absorption, clouds, rain, and scintillation by directly measuring the propagated signal from the satellite Thor 7.

Design of a Ka-band Propagation Terminal for Atmospheric Measurements in Polar Regions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Houts, Jacquelynne R.; Nessel, James A.; Zemba, Michael J.

2016-01-01

This paper describes the design and performance of a Ka-Band beacon receiver developed at NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) that will be installed alongside an existing Ka-Band Radiometer located at the east end of the Svalbard Near Earth Network (NEN) complex. The goal of this experiment is to characterize rain fade attenuation to improve the performance of existing statistical rain attenuation models. The ground terminal developed by NASA GRC utilizes an FFT-based frequency estimation receiver capable of characterizing total path attenuation effects due to gaseous absorption, clouds, rain, and scintillation by directly measuring the propagated signal from the satellite Thor 7.

Feynman path integral application on deriving black-scholes diffusion equation for european option pricing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Utama, Briandhika; Purqon, Acep

2016-08-01

Path Integral is a method to transform a function from its initial condition to final condition through multiplying its initial condition with the transition probability function, known as propagator. At the early development, several studies focused to apply this method for solving problems only in Quantum Mechanics. Nevertheless, Path Integral could also apply to other subjects with some modifications in the propagator function. In this study, we investigate the application of Path Integral method in financial derivatives, stock options. Black-Scholes Model (Nobel 1997) was a beginning anchor in Option Pricing study. Though this model did not successfully predict option price perfectly, especially because its sensitivity for the major changing on market, Black-Scholes Model still is a legitimate equation in pricing an option. The derivation of Black-Scholes has a high difficulty level because it is a stochastic partial differential equation. Black-Scholes equation has a similar principle with Path Integral, where in Black-Scholes the share's initial price is transformed to its final price. The Black-Scholes propagator function then derived by introducing a modified Lagrange based on Black-Scholes equation. Furthermore, we study the correlation between path integral analytical solution and Monte-Carlo numeric solution to find the similarity between this two methods.

Proactive and Reactive Transmission Power Control for Energy-Efficient On-Body Communications

PubMed Central

Vallejo, Mónica; Recas, Joaquín.; Ayala, José L.

2015-01-01

In wireless body sensor network (WBSNs), the human body has an important effect on the performance of the communication due to the temporal variations caused and the attenuation and fluctuation of the path loss. This fact suggests that the transmission power must adapt to the current state of the link in a way that it ensures a balance between energy consumption and packet loss. In this paper, we validate our two transmission power level policies (reactive and predictive approaches) using the Castalia simulator. The integration of our experimental measurements in the simulator allows us to easily evaluate complex scenarios, avoiding the difficulties associated with a practical realization. Our results show that both schemes perform satisfactorily, providing overall energy savings of 24% and 22% for a case of study, as compared to the maximum transmission power mode. PMID:25769049

Quantization of Simple Parametrized Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ruffini, Giulio

1995-01-01

I study the canonical formulation and quantization of some simple parametrized systems using Dirac's formalism and the Becchi-Rouet-Stora-Tyutin (BRST) extended phase space method. These systems include the parametrized particle and minisuperspace. Using Dirac's formalism I first analyze for each case the construction of the classical reduced phase space. There are two separate features of these systems that may make this construction difficult: (a) Because of the boundary conditions used, the actions are not gauge invariant at the boundaries. (b) The constraints may have a disconnected solution space. The relativistic particle and minisuperspace have such complicated constraints, while the non-relativistic particle displays only the first feature. I first show that a change of gauge fixing is equivalent to a canonical transformation in the reduced phase space, thus resolving the problems associated with the first feature above. Then I consider the quantization of these systems using several approaches: Dirac's method, Dirac-Fock quantization, and the BRST formalism. In the cases of the relativistic particle and minisuperspace I consider first the quantization of one branch of the constraint at the time and then discuss the backgrounds in which it is possible to quantize simultaneously both branches. I motivate and define the inner product, and obtain, for example, the Klein-Gordon inner product for the relativistic case. Then I show how to construct phase space path integral representations for amplitudes in these approaches--the Batalin-Fradkin-Vilkovisky (BFV) and the Faddeev path integrals --from which one can then derive the path integrals in coordinate space--the Faddeev-Popov path integral and the geometric path integral. In particular I establish the connection between the Hilbert space representation and the range of the lapse in the path integrals. I also examine the class of paths that contribute in the path integrals and how they affect space-time covariance, concluding that it is consistent to take paths that move forward in time only when there is no electric field. The key elements in this analysis are the space-like paths and the behavior of the action under the non-trivial ( Z_2) element of the reparametrization group.

77 FR 74027 - Certain Integrated Circuit Packages Provided with Multiple Heat-Conducting Paths and Products...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-12-12

... INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION [Investigation No. 337-TA-851] Certain Integrated Circuit Packages Provided with Multiple Heat- Conducting Paths and Products Containing Same; Commission Determination Not To... provided with multiple heat-conducting paths and products containing same by reason of infringement of...

FIELD EVALUATION OF A METHOD FOR ESTIMATING GASEOUS FLUXES FROM AREA SOURCES USING OPEN-PATH FTIR

EPA Science Inventory

The paper gives preliminary results from a field evaluation of a new approach for quantifying gaseous fugitive emissions of area air pollution sources. The approach combines path-integrated concentration data acquired with any path-integrated optical remote sensing (PI-ORS) ...

FIELD EVALUATION OF A METHOD FOR ESTIMATING GASEOUS FLUXES FROM AREA SOURCES USING OPEN-PATH FOURIER TRANSFORM INFRARED

EPA Science Inventory

The paper describes preliminary results from a field experiment designed to evaluate a new approach to quantifying gaseous fugitive emissions from area air pollution sources. The new approach combines path-integrated concentration data acquired with any path-integrated optical re...

Spatial Updating Strategy Affects the Reference Frame in Path Integration.

PubMed

He, Qiliang; McNamara, Timothy P

2018-06-01

This study investigated how spatial updating strategies affected the selection of reference frames in path integration. Participants walked an outbound path consisting of three successive waypoints in a featureless environment and then pointed to the first waypoint. We manipulated the alignment of participants' final heading at the end of the outbound path with their initial heading to examine the adopted reference frame. We assumed that the initial heading defined the principal reference direction in an allocentric reference frame. In Experiment 1, participants were instructed to use a configural updating strategy and to monitor the shape of the outbound path while they walked it. Pointing performance was best when the final heading was aligned with the initial heading, indicating the use of an allocentric reference frame. In Experiment 2, participants were instructed to use a continuous updating strategy and to keep track of the location of the first waypoint while walking the outbound path. Pointing performance was equivalent regardless of the alignment between the final and the initial headings, indicating the use of an egocentric reference frame. These results confirmed that people could employ different spatial updating strategies in path integration (Wiener, Berthoz, & Wolbers Experimental Brain Research 208(1) 61-71, 2011), and suggested that these strategies could affect the selection of the reference frame for path integration.

Propagation effects on radio range and noise in earth-space telecommunications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Flock, W. L.; Slobin, S. D.; Smith, E. K.

1982-01-01

Attention is given to the propagation effects on radio range and noise in earth-space telecommunications. The use of higher frequencies minimizes ionospheric effects on propagation, but tropospheric effects often increase or dominate. For paths of geostationary satellites, and beyond, the excess range delay caused by the ionosphere and plasmasphere is proportional to the total electron content along the path and inversely proportional to frequency squared. The delay due to dry air is usually of the order of a few meters while the delay due to water vapor (a few tens of centimeters) is responsible for most of the temporal variation in the range delay for clean air. For systems such as that of the Voyager spacecraft, and for attenuation values up to about 10 dB, increased sky noise degrades the received signal-to-noise ratio more than does the reduction in signal level due to attenuation.

Millimeter wavelength propagation studies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hodge, D. B.

1974-01-01

The investigations conducted for the Millimeter Wavelength Propagation Studies during the period December, 1966, to June 1974 are reported. These efforts included the preparation for the ATS-5 Millimeter Wavelength Propagation Experiment and the subsequent data acquisition and data analysis. The emphasis of the OSU participation in this experiment was placed on the determination of reliability improvement resulting from the use of space diversity on a millimeter wavelength earth-space communication link. Related measurements included the determination of the correlation between radiometric temperature and attenuation along the earth-space propagation path. Along with this experimental effort a theoretical model was developed for the prediction of attenuation statistics on single and spatially separated earth space propagation paths. A High Resolution Radar/Radiometer System and Low Resolution Radar System were developed and implemented for the study of intense rain cells in preparation for the ATS-6 Millimeter Wavelength Propagation Experiment.

Pulse stretcher

DOEpatents

Horton, J.A.

1994-05-03

Apparatus for increasing the length of a laser pulse to reduce its peak power without substantial loss in the average power of the pulse is disclosed. The apparatus uses a White cell having a plurality of optical delay paths of successively increasing number of passes between the field mirror and the objective mirrors. A pulse from a laser travels through a multi-leg reflective path between a beam splitter and a totally reflective mirror to the laser output. The laser pulse is also simultaneously injected through the beam splitter to the input mirrors of the optical delay paths. The pulses from the output mirrors of the optical delay paths go simultaneously to the laser output and to the input mirrors of the longer optical delay paths. The beam splitter is 50% reflective and 50% transmissive to provide equal attenuation of all of the pulses at the laser output. 6 figures.

Effectiveness of Near-Grazing Incidence Reflection in Creating the Rotationally Modulated Lanes in the Jovian Hectometric Radio Emission Spectrum

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Menietti, J. D.; Gurnett, D. A.; Kurth, W. S.; Groene, J. B.

1999-01-01

The Galileo plasma wave instrument has identified a narrow (in frequency) attenuation band in the hectometric emission that varies in frequency with system 3 longitude. It is possible to model this emission band assuming a high-latitude cyclotron source region with emission that is efficiently attenuated when the ray path is nearly tangent to an L shell that is close to the Io flux tube. The data suggest that the mechanism for attenuating the emission is very efficient, with the ratio of attenuated to unattenuated emission I/I(sub o) < 0.02, and not a strong function of frequency. In this paper we demonstrate that incoherent scattering alone cannot explain the attenuation lane, which does not preclude coherent scattering by uncertain processes. We find rather that the source of attenuation is consistent with near-grazing incidence reflection of emission from an L shell that is near the Io flux tube (a caustic surface).

Eliminating bias in rainfall estimates from microwave links due to antenna wetting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fencl, Martin; Rieckermann, Jörg; Bareš, Vojtěch

2014-05-01

Commercial microwave links (MWLs) are point-to-point radio systems which are widely used in telecommunication systems. They operate at frequencies where the transmitted power is mainly disturbed by precipitation. Thus, signal attenuation from MWLs can be used to estimate path-averaged rain rates, which is conceptually very promising, since MWLs cover about 20 % of surface area. Unfortunately, MWL rainfall estimates are often positively biased due to additional attenuation caused by antenna wetting. To correct MWL observations a posteriori to reduce the wet antenna effect (WAE), both empirically and physically based models have been suggested. However, it is challenging to calibrate these models, because the wet antenna attenuation depends both on the MWL properties (frequency, type of antennas, shielding etc.) and different climatic factors (temperature, due point, wind velocity and direction, etc.). Instead, it seems straight forward to keep antennas dry by shielding them. In this investigation we compare the effectiveness of antenna shielding to model-based corrections to reduce the WAE. The experimental setup, located in Dübendorf-Switzerland, consisted of 1.85-km long commercial dual-polarization microwave link at 38 GHz and 5 optical disdrometers. The MWL was operated without shielding in the period from March to October 2011 and with shielding from October 2011 to July 2012. This unique experimental design made it possible to identify the attenuation due to antenna wetting, which can be computed as the difference between the measured and theoretical attenuation. The theoretical path-averaged attenuation was calculated from the path-averaged drop size distribution. During the unshielded periods, the total bias caused by WAE was 0.74 dB, which was reduced by shielding to 0.39 dB for the horizontal polarization (vertical: reduction from 0.96 dB to 0.44 dB). Interestingly, the model-based correction (Schleiss et al. 2013) was more effective because it reduced the bias of unshielded periods to 0.07 dB for the horizontal polarization (vertical: 0.06 dB). Applying the same model-based correction to shielded periods reduces the bias even more, to -0.03 dB and -0.01 dB, respectively. This indicates that additional attenuation could be caused also by different effects, such as reflection of sidelobes from wet surfaces and other environmental factors. Further, model-based corrections do not capture correctly the nature of WAE, but more likely provide only an empirical correction. This claim is supported by the fact that detailed analysis of particular events reveals that both antenna shielding and model-based correction performance differ substantially from event to event. Further investigation based on direct observation of antenna wetting and other environmental variables needs to be performed to identify more properly the nature of the attenuation bias. Schleiss, M., J. Rieckermann, and A. Berne, 2013: Quantification and modeling of wet-antenna attenuation for commercial microwave links. IEEE Geosci. Remote Sens. Lett., 10.1109/LGRS.2012.2236074.

An automated integration-free path-integral method based on Kleinert's variational perturbation theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wong, Kin-Yiu; Gao, Jiali

2007-12-01

Based on Kleinert's variational perturbation (KP) theory [Path Integrals in Quantum Mechanics, Statistics, Polymer Physics, and Financial Markets, 3rd ed. (World Scientific, Singapore, 2004)], we present an analytic path-integral approach for computing the effective centroid potential. The approach enables the KP theory to be applied to any realistic systems beyond the first-order perturbation (i.e., the original Feynman-Kleinert [Phys. Rev. A 34, 5080 (1986)] variational method). Accurate values are obtained for several systems in which exact quantum results are known. Furthermore, the computed kinetic isotope effects for a series of proton transfer reactions, in which the potential energy surfaces are evaluated by density-functional theory, are in good accordance with experiments. We hope that our method could be used by non-path-integral experts or experimentalists as a "black box" for any given system.

Looking Down Through the Clouds – Optical Attenuation through Real-Time Clouds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burley, J.; Lazarewicz, A.; Dean, D.; Heath, N.

Detecting and identifying nuclear explosions in the atmosphere and on the surface of the Earth is critical for the Air Force Technical Applications Center (AFTAC) treaty monitoring mission. Optical signals, from surface or atmospheric nuclear explosions detected by satellite sensors, are attenuated by the atmosphere and clouds. Clouds present a particularly complex challenge as they cover up to seventy percent of the earth's surface. Moreover, their highly variable and diverse nature requires physics-based modeling. Determining the attenuation for each optical ray-path is uniquely dependent on the source geolocation, the specific optical transmission characteristics along that ray path, and sensor detection capabilities. This research details a collaborative AFTAC and AFIT effort to fuse worldwide weather data, from a variety of sources, to provide near-real-time profiles of atmospheric and cloud conditions and the resulting radiative transfer analysis for virtually any wavelength(s) of interest from source to satellite. AFIT has developed a means to model global clouds using the U.S. Air Force’s World Wide Merged Cloud Analysis (WWMCA) cloud data in a new toolset that enables radiance calculations through clouds from UV to RF wavelengths.

Charge composition of high energy heavy primary cosmic ray nuclei. Ph.D. Thesis - Catholic Univ. of Am.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Price, R. D.

1974-01-01

A detailed study of the charge composition of primary cosmic radiation for about 5000 charged nuclei from neon to iron with energies greater than 1.16 GeV/nucleon is presented. Values are obtained after corrections were made for detector dependences, atmospheric attenuation, and solar modulation. New values of 38.5, 32.4, 23.7, and 16.8 g/sq cm for the attenuation mean free paths in air for the same charge groups are presented.

INNOVATIVE APPROACH FOR MEASURING AMMONIA AND METHANE FLUXES FROM A HOG FARM USING OPEN-PATH FOURIER TRANSFORM INFRARED SPECTROSCOPY

EPA Science Inventory

The paper describes a new approach to quantify emissions from area air pollution sources. The approach combines path-integrated concentration data acquired with any path-integrated optical remote sensing (PI-ORS) technique and computed tomography (CT) technique. In this study, an...

Near-Millimeter Wave Technology Base Study: Volume I. Propagation and Target/Background Characteristics

DTIC Science & Technology

1979-11-01

diameter test cell used for laser propagation measurements is Path length-84 m to 2.0 km available and has been designed for circulating aerosols or...36- and 110-GHz and found an attenuation ratio of comparison measurements along a 4-km path with rain rate measured near the receiver end. a *02 They...time. Tipping-bucket systems . gauges are reliable, but become increasingly in- accurate at high rates . Flow gauges which The direct field measurement

Topological charge quantization via path integration: An application of the Kustaanheimo-Stiefel transformation

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

Inomata, A.; Junker, G.; Wilson, R.

1993-08-01

The unified treatment of the Dirac monopole, the Schwinger monopole, and the Aharonov-Bahn problem by Barut and Wilson is revisited via a path integral approach. The Kustaanheimo-Stiefel transformation of space and time is utilized to calculate the path integral for a charged particle in the singular vector potential. In the process of dimensional reduction, a topological charge quantization rule is derived, which contains Dirac's quantization condition as a special case. 32 refs.

Evaluation of the path integral for flow through random porous media

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Westbroek, Marise J. E.; Coche, Gil-Arnaud; King, Peter R.; Vvedensky, Dimitri D.

2018-04-01

We present a path integral formulation of Darcy's equation in one dimension with random permeability described by a correlated multivariate lognormal distribution. This path integral is evaluated with the Markov chain Monte Carlo method to obtain pressure distributions, which are shown to agree with the solutions of the corresponding stochastic differential equation for Dirichlet and Neumann boundary conditions. The extension of our approach to flow through random media in two and three dimensions is discussed.

User's guide to Monte Carlo methods for evaluating path integrals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Westbroek, Marise J. E.; King, Peter R.; Vvedensky, Dimitri D.; Dürr, Stephan

2018-04-01

We give an introduction to the calculation of path integrals on a lattice, with the quantum harmonic oscillator as an example. In addition to providing an explicit computational setup and corresponding pseudocode, we pay particular attention to the existence of autocorrelations and the calculation of reliable errors. The over-relaxation technique is presented as a way to counter strong autocorrelations. The simulation methods can be extended to compute observables for path integrals in other settings.

Feynman formulae and phase space Feynman path integrals for tau-quantization of some Lévy-Khintchine type Hamilton functions

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

Butko, Yana A., E-mail: yanabutko@yandex.ru, E-mail: kinderknecht@math.uni-sb.de; Grothaus, Martin, E-mail: grothaus@mathematik.uni-kl.de; Smolyanov, Oleg G., E-mail: Smolyanov@yandex.ru

2016-02-15

Evolution semigroups generated by pseudo-differential operators are considered. These operators are obtained by different (parameterized by a number τ) procedures of quantization from a certain class of functions (or symbols) defined on the phase space. This class contains Hamilton functions of particles with variable mass in magnetic and potential fields and more general symbols given by the Lévy-Khintchine formula. The considered semigroups are represented as limits of n-fold iterated integrals when n tends to infinity. Such representations are called Feynman formulae. Some of these representations are constructed with the help of another pseudo-differential operator, obtained by the same procedure ofmore » quantization; such representations are called Hamiltonian Feynman formulae. Some representations are based on integral operators with elementary kernels; these are called Lagrangian Feynman formulae. Langrangian Feynman formulae provide approximations of evolution semigroups, suitable for direct computations and numerical modeling of the corresponding dynamics. Hamiltonian Feynman formulae allow to represent the considered semigroups by means of Feynman path integrals. In the article, a family of phase space Feynman pseudomeasures corresponding to different procedures of quantization is introduced. The considered evolution semigroups are represented as phase space Feynman path integrals with respect to these Feynman pseudomeasures, i.e., different quantizations correspond to Feynman path integrals with the same integrand but with respect to different pseudomeasures. This answers Berezin’s problem of distinguishing a procedure of quantization on the language of Feynman path integrals. Moreover, the obtained Lagrangian Feynman formulae allow also to calculate these phase space Feynman path integrals and to connect them with some functional integrals with respect to probability measures.« less

Vector navigation in desert ants, Cataglyphis fortis: celestial compass cues are essential for the proper use of distance information.

PubMed

Sommer, Stefan; Wehner, Rüdiger

2005-10-01

Foraging desert ants navigate primarily by path integration. They continually update homing direction and distance by employing a celestial compass and an odometer. Here we address the question of whether information about travel distance is correctly used in the absence of directional information. By using linear channels that were partly covered to exclude celestial compass cues, we were able to test the distance component of the path-integration process while suppressing the directional information. Our results suggest that the path integrator cannot process the distance information accumulated by the odometer while ants are deprived of celestial compass information. Hence, during path integration directional cues are a prerequisite for the proper use of travel-distance information by ants.

Path optimization method for the sign problem

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ohnishi, Akira; Mori, Yuto; Kashiwa, Kouji

2018-03-01

We propose a path optimization method (POM) to evade the sign problem in the Monte-Carlo calculations for complex actions. Among many approaches to the sign problem, the Lefschetz-thimble path-integral method and the complex Langevin method are promising and extensively discussed. In these methods, real field variables are complexified and the integration manifold is determined by the flow equations or stochastically sampled. When we have singular points of the action or multiple critical points near the original integral surface, however, we have a risk to encounter the residual and global sign problems or the singular drift term problem. One of the ways to avoid the singular points is to optimize the integration path which is designed not to hit the singular points of the Boltzmann weight. By specifying the one-dimensional integration-path as z = t +if(t)(f ɛ R) and by optimizing f(t) to enhance the average phase factor, we demonstrate that we can avoid the sign problem in a one-variable toy model for which the complex Langevin method is found to fail. In this proceedings, we propose POM and discuss how we can avoid the sign problem in a toy model. We also discuss the possibility to utilize the neural network to optimize the path.

A review of the application of nonattenuating frequency radars for estimating rain attenuation and space-diversity performance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goldhirsh, J.

1979-01-01

Cumulative rain fade statistics are used by space communications engineers to establish transmitter power and receiver sensitivities for systems operating under various geometries, climates, and radio frequencies. Space-diversity performance criteria are also of interest. This work represents a review, in which are examined the many elements involved in the employment of single nonattenuating frequency radars for arriving at the desired information. The elements examined include radar techniques and requirements, phenomenological assumptions, path attenuation formulations and procedures, as well as error budgeting and calibration analysis. Included are the pertinent results of previous investigators who have used radar for rain-attenuation modeling. Suggestions are made for improving present methods.

Surface acoustic wave dust deposition monitor

DOEpatents

Fasching, G.E.; Smith, N.S. Jr.

1988-02-12

A system is disclosed for using the attenuation of surface acoustic waves to monitor real time dust deposition rates on surfaces. The system includes a signal generator, a tone-burst generator/amplifier connected to a transmitting transducer for converting electrical signals into acoustic waves. These waves are transmitted through a path defining means adjacent to a layer of dust and then, in turn, transmitted to a receiving transducer for changing the attenuated acoustic wave to electrical signals. The signals representing the attenuated acoustic waves may be amplified and used in a means for analyzing the output signals to produce an output indicative of the dust deposition rates and/or values of dust in the layer. 8 figs.

Ex vivo optical characterization of in vivo grown tissues on dummy sensor implants using double integrating spheres measurement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sharma, Sandeep; Goodarzi, Mohammad; Aernouts, Ben; Gellynck, Karolien; Vlaminck, Lieven; Bockstaele, Ronny; Cornelissen, Maria; Ramon, Herman; Saeys, Wouter

2014-05-01

Near infrared spectroscopy offers a promising technological platform for continuous glucose monitoring in the human body. NIR measurements can be performed in vivo with an implantable single-chip based optical NIR sensor. However, the application of NIR spectroscopy for accurate estimation of the analyte concentration in highly scattering biological systems still remains a challenge. For instance, a thin tissue layer may grow in the optical path of the sensor. As most biological tissues allow only a small fraction of the collimated light to pass, this might result in a large reduction of the light throughput. To quantify the effect of presence of a thin tissue layer in the optical path, the bulk optical properties of tissue samples grown on sensor dummies which had been implanted for several months in goats were characterized using Double Integrating Spheres and unscattered transmittance measurements. The measured values of diffuse reflectance, diffuse transmittance and collimated transmittance were used as input to Inverse Adding-Doubling algorithm to estimate the bulk optical properties of the samples. The estimates of absorption and scattering coefficients were then used to calculate the light attenuation through a thin tissue layer. Based on the lower reduction in unscattered transmittance and higher absorptivity of glucose molecules, the measurement in the combination band was found to be the better option for the implantable sensor. As the tissues were found to be highly forward scattering with very low unscattered transmittance, the diffuse transmittance measurement based sensor configuration was recommended for the implantable glucose sensor.

Measurement of J-integral in CAD/CAM dental ceramics and composite resin by digital image correlation.

PubMed

Jiang, Yanxia; Akkus, Anna; Roperto, Renato; Akkus, Ozan; Li, Bo; Lang, Lisa; Teich, Sorin

2016-09-01

Ceramic and composite resin blocks for CAD/CAM machining of dental restorations are becoming more common. The sample sizes affordable by these blocks are smaller than ideal for stress intensity factor (SIF) based tests. The J-integral measurement calls for full field strain measurement, making it challenging to conduct. Accordingly, the J-integral values of dental restoration materials used in CAD/CAM restorations have not been reported to date. Digital image correlation (DIC) provides full field strain maps, making it possible to calculate the J-integral value. The aim of this study was to measure the J-integral value for CAD/CAM restorative materials. Four types of materials (sintered IPS E-MAX CAD, non-sintered IPS E-MAX CAD, Vita Mark II and Paradigm MZ100) were used to prepare beam samples for three-point bending tests. J-integrals were calculated for different integral path size and locations with respect to the crack tip. J-integral at path 1 for each material was 1.26±0.31×10(-4)MPam for MZ 100, 0.59±0.28×10(-4)MPam for sintered E-MAX, 0.19±0.07×10(-4)MPam for VM II, and 0.21±0.05×10(-4)MPam for non-sintered E-MAX. There were no significant differences between different integral path size, except for the non-sintered E-MAX group. J-integral paths of non-sintered E-MAX located within 42% of the height of the sample provided consistent values whereas outside this range resulted in lower J-integral values. Moreover, no significant difference was found among different integral path locations. The critical SIF was calculated from J-integral (KJ) along with geometry derived SIF values (KI). KI values were comparable with KJ and geometry based SIF values obtained from literature. Therefore, DIC derived J-integral is a reliable way to assess the fracture toughness of small sized specimens for dental CAD/CAM restorative materials; however, with caution applied to the selection of J-integral path. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Ground Radar Polarimetric Observations of High-Frequency Earth-Space Communication Links

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bolen, Steve; Chandrasekar, V.; Benjamin, Andrew

2002-01-01

Strategic roadmaps for NASA's Human Exploration and Development of Space (REDS) enterprise support near-term high-frequency communication systems that provide moderate to high data rates with dependable service. Near-earth and human planetary exploration will baseline Ka-Band, but may ultimately require the use of even higher frequencies. Increased commercial demand on low-frequency earth-space bands has also led to increased interest in the use of higher frequencies in regions like K u - and K,- band. Data is taken from the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Precipitation Radar (PR), which operates at 13.8 GHz, and the true radar reflectivity profile is determined along the PR beam via low-frequency ground based polarimetric observations. The specific differential phase (Kdp) is measured along the beam and a theoretical model is used to determine the expected specific attenuation (k). This technique, called the k-Kdp method, uses a Fuzzy-Logic model to determine the hydrometeor type along the PR beam from which the appropriate k-Kdp relationship is used to determine k and, ultimately, the total path-integrated attenuation (PIA) on PR measurements. Measurements from PR and the NCAR S-POL radar were made during the TEFLUN-B experiment that took place near Melbourne, FL in 1998, and the TRMM-LBA campaign near Ji-Parana, Brazil in 1999.

A review of path-independent integrals in elastic-plastic fracture mechanics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kim, Kwang S.; Orange, Thomas W.

1988-01-01

The objective of this paper is to review the path-independent (P-I) integrals in elastic plastic fracture mechanics which have been proposed in recent years to overcome the limitations imposed on the J-integral. The P-I integrals considered are the J-integral by Rice (1968), the thermoelastic P-I integrals by Wilson and Yu (1979) and Gurtin (1979), the J-integral by Blackburn (1972), the J(theta)-integral by Ainsworth et al. (1978), the J-integral by Kishimoto et al. (1980), and the Delta-T(p) and Delta T(p)-asterisk integrals by Alturi et al. (1982). The theoretical foundation of the P-I integrals is examined with an emphasis on whether or not the path independence is maintained in the presence of nonproportional loading and unloading in the plastic regime, thermal gradient, and material inhomogeneities. The simularities, difference, salient features, and limitations of the P-I integrals are discussed. Comments are also made with regard to the physical meaning, the possibility of experimental measurement, and computational aspects.

A review of path-independent integrals in elastic-plastic fracture mechanics, task 4

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kim, K. S.

1985-01-01

The path independent (P-I) integrals in elastic plastic fracture mechanics which have been proposed in recent years to overcome the limitations imposed on the J integral are reviewed. The P-I integrals considered herein are the J integral by Rice, the thermoelastic P-I integrals by Wilson and Yu and by Gurtin, the J* integral by Blackburn, the J sub theta integral by Ainsworth et al., the J integral by Kishimoto et al., and the delta T sub p and delta T* sub p integrals by Atluri et al. The theoretical foundation of these P-I integrals is examined with emphasis on whether or not path independence is maintained in the presence of nonproportional loading and unloading in the plastic regime, thermal gradients, and material inhomogeneities. The similarities, differences, salient features, and limitations of these P-I integrals are discussed. Comments are also made with regard to the physical meaning, the possibility of experimental measurement, and computational aspects.

77 FR 33486 - Certain Integrated Circuit Packages Provided With Multiple Heat-Conducting Paths and Products...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-06

... INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION [Docket No. 2899] Certain Integrated Circuit Packages Provided With... complaint entitled Certain Integrated Circuit Packages Provided With Multiple Heat-Conducting Paths and..., telephone (202) 205-2000. The public version of the complaint can be accessed on the Commission's electronic...

Updated lateral attenuation in FAA's Integrated Noise Model

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2000-08-27

The lateral attenuation algorithm in the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) Integrated Noise Model (INM) has historically been based on the two regression equations described in the Society of Automotive Engineers' (SAE) Aerospace Information Re...

BOOK REVIEW: Path Integrals in Field Theory: An Introduction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ryder, Lewis

2004-06-01

In the 1960s Feynman was known to particle physicists as one of the people who solved the major problems of quantum electrodynamics, his contribution famously introducing what are now called Feynman diagrams. To other physicists he gained a reputation as the author of the Feynman Lectures on Physics; in addition some people were aware of his work on the path integral formulation of quantum theory, and a very few knew about his work on gravitation and Yang--Mills theories, which made use of path integral methods. Forty years later the scene is rather different. Many of the problems of high energy physics are solved; and the standard model incorporates Feynman's path integral method as a way of proving the renormalisability of the gauge (Yang--Mills) theories involved. Gravitation is proving a much harder nut to crack, but here also questions of renormalisability are couched in path-integral language. What is more, theoretical studies of condensed matter physics now also appeal to this technique for quantisation, so the path integral method is becoming part of the standard apparatus of theoretical physics. Chapters on it appear in a number of recent books, and a few books have appeared devoted to this topic alone; the book under review is a very recent one. Path integral techniques have the advantage of enormous conceptual appeal and the great disadvantage of mathematical complexity, this being partly the result of messy integrals but more fundamentally due to the notions of functional differentiation and integration which are involved in the method. All in all this subject is not such an easy ride. Mosel's book, described as an introduction, is aimed at graduate students and research workers in particle physics. It assumes a background knowledge of quantum mechanics, both non-relativistic and relativistic. After three chapters on the path integral formulation of non-relativistic quantum mechanics there are eight chapters on scalar and spinor field theory, followed by three on gauge field theories---quantum electrodynamics and Yang--Mills theories, Faddeev--Popov ghosts and so on.There is no treatment of the quantisation of gravity.Thus in about 200 pages the reader has the chance to learn in some detail about a most important area of modern physics. The subject is tough but the style is clear and pedagogic, results for the most part being derived explicitly. The choice of topics included is main-stream and sensible and one has a clear sense that the author knows where he is going and is a reliable guide. Path Integrals in Field Theory is clearly the work of a man with considerable teaching experience and is recommended as a readable and helpful account of a rather non-trivial subject.

A two-hop based adaptive routing protocol for real-time wireless sensor networks.

PubMed

Rachamalla, Sandhya; Kancherla, Anitha Sheela

2016-01-01

One of the most important and challenging issues in wireless sensor networks (WSNs) is to optimally manage the limited energy of nodes without degrading the routing efficiency. In this paper, we propose an energy-efficient adaptive routing mechanism for WSNs, which saves energy of nodes by removing the much delayed packets without degrading the real-time performance of the used routing protocol. It uses the adaptive transmission power algorithm which is based on the attenuation of the wireless link to improve the energy efficiency. The proposed routing mechanism can be associated with any geographic routing protocol and its performance is evaluated by integrating with the well known two-hop based real-time routing protocol, PATH and the resulting protocol is energy-efficient adaptive routing protocol (EE-ARP). The EE-ARP performs well in terms of energy consumption, deadline miss ratio, packet drop and end-to-end delay.

Rainfall Measurement with a Ground Based Dual Frequency Radar

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Takahashi, Nobuhiro; Horie, Hiroaki; Meneghini, Robert

1997-01-01

Dual frequency methods are one of the most useful ways to estimate precise rainfall rates. However, there are some difficulties in applying this method to ground based radars because of the existence of a blind zone and possible error in the radar calibration. Because of these problems, supplemental observations such as rain gauges or satellite link estimates of path integrated attenuation (PIA) are needed. This study shows how to estimate rainfall rate with a ground based dual frequency radar with rain gauge and satellite link data. Applications of this method to stratiform rainfall is also shown. This method is compared with single wavelength method. Data were obtained from a dual frequency (10 GHz and 35 GHz) multiparameter radar radiometer built by the Communications Research Laboratory (CRL), Japan, and located at NASA/GSFC during the spring of 1997. Optical rain gauge (ORG) data and broadcasting satellite signal data near the radar t location were also utilized for the calculation.

A Novel Low-Power, High-Performance, Zero-Maintenance Closed-Path Trace Gas Eddy Covariance System with No Water Vapor Dilution or Spectroscopic Corrections

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sargent, S.; Somers, J. M.

2015-12-01

Trace-gas eddy covariance flux measurement can be made with open-path or closed-path analyzers. Traditional closed-path trace-gas analyzers use multipass absorption cells that behave as mixing volumes, requiring high sample flow rates to achieve useful frequency response. The high sample flow rate and the need to keep the multipass cell extremely clean dictates the use of a fine-pore filter that may clog quickly. A large-capacity filter cannot be used because it would degrade the EC system frequency response. The high flow rate also requires a powerful vacuum pump, which will typically consume on the order of 1000 W. The analyzer must measure water vapor for spectroscopic and dilution corrections. Open-path analyzers are available for methane, but not for nitrous oxide. The currently available methane analyzers have low power consumption, but are very large. Their large size degrades frequency response and disturbs the air flow near the sonic anemometer. They require significant maintenance to keep the exposed multipass optical surfaces clean. Water vapor measurements for dilution and spectroscopic corrections require a separate water vapor analyzer. A new closed-path eddy covariance system for measuring nitrous oxide or methane fluxes provides an elegant solution. The analyzer (TGA200A, Campbell Scientific, Inc.) uses a thermoelectrically-cooled interband cascade laser. Its small sample-cell volume and unique sample-cell configuration (200 ml, 1.5 m single pass) provide excellent frequency response with a low-power scroll pump (240 W). A new single-tube Nafion® dryer removes most of the water vapor, and attenuates fluctuations in the residual water vapor. Finally, a vortex intake assembly eliminates the need for an intake filter without adding volume that would degrade system frequency response. Laboratory testing shows the system attenuates the water vapor dilution term by more than 99% and achieves a half-power band width of 3.5 Hz.

Importance sampling studies of helium using the Feynman-Kac path integral method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Datta, S.; Rejcek, J. M.

2018-05-01

In the Feynman-Kac path integral approach the eigenvalues of a quantum system can be computed using Wiener measure which uses Brownian particle motion. In our previous work on such systems we have observed that the Wiener process numerically converges slowly for dimensions greater than two because almost all trajectories will escape to infinity. One can speed up this process by using a generalized Feynman-Kac (GFK) method, in which the new measure associated with the trial function is stationary, so that the convergence rate becomes much faster. We thus achieve an example of "importance sampling" and, in the present work, we apply it to the Feynman-Kac (FK) path integrals for the ground and first few excited-state energies for He to speed up the convergence rate. We calculate the path integrals using space averaging rather than the time averaging as done in the past. The best previous calculations from variational computations report precisions of 10-16 Hartrees, whereas in most cases our path integral results obtained for the ground and first excited states of He are lower than these results by about 10-6 Hartrees or more.

Attenuation Tomography of Northern California and the Yellow Sea / Korean Peninsula from Coda-source Normalized and Direct Lg Amplitudes

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

Ford, S R; Dreger, D S; Phillips, W S

2008-07-16

Inversions for regional attenuation (1/Q) of Lg are performed in two different regions. The path attenuation component of the Lg spectrum is isolated using the coda-source normalization method, which corrects the Lg spectral amplitude for the source using the stable, coda-derived source spectra. Tomographic images of Northern California agree well with one-dimensional (1-D) Lg Q estimated from five different methods. We note there is some tendency for tomographic smoothing to increase Q relative to targeted 1-D methods. For example in the San Francisco Bay Area, which contains high attenuation relative to the rest of it's region, Q is over-estimated bymore » {approx}30. Coda-source normalized attenuation tomography is also carried out for the Yellow Sea/Korean Peninsula (YSKP) where output parameters (site, source, and path terms) are compared with those from the amplitude tomography method of Phillips et al. (2005) as well as a new method that ties the source term to the MDAC formulation (Walter and Taylor, 2001). The source terms show similar scatter between coda-source corrected and MDAC source perturbation methods, whereas the amplitude method has the greatest correlation with estimated true source magnitude. The coda-source better represents the source spectra compared to the estimated magnitude and could be the cause of the scatter. The similarity in the source terms between the coda-source and MDAC-linked methods shows that the latter method may approximate the effect of the former, and therefore could be useful in regions without coda-derived sources. The site terms from the MDAC-linked method correlate slightly with global Vs30 measurements. While the coda-source and amplitude ratio methods do not correlate with Vs30 measurements, they do correlate with one another, which provides confidence that the two methods are consistent. The path Q{sup -1} values are very similar between the coda-source and amplitude ratio methods except for small differences in the Da-xin-anling Mountains, in the northern YSKP. However there is one large difference between the MDAC-linked method and the others in the region near stations TJN and INCN, which point to site-effect as the cause for the difference.« less

Real-time Feynman path integral with Picard–Lefschetz theory and its applications to quantum tunneling

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

Tanizaki, Yuya, E-mail: yuya.tanizaki@riken.jp; Theoretical Research Division, Nishina Center, RIKEN, Wako 351-0198; Koike, Takayuki, E-mail: tkoike@ms.u-tokyo.ac.jp

Picard–Lefschetz theory is applied to path integrals of quantum mechanics, in order to compute real-time dynamics directly. After discussing basic properties of real-time path integrals on Lefschetz thimbles, we demonstrate its computational method in a concrete way by solving three simple examples of quantum mechanics. It is applied to quantum mechanics of a double-well potential, and quantum tunneling is discussed. We identify all of the complex saddle points of the classical action, and their properties are discussed in detail. However a big theoretical difficulty turns out to appear in rewriting the original path integral into a sum of path integralsmore » on Lefschetz thimbles. We discuss generality of that problem and mention its importance. Real-time tunneling processes are shown to be described by those complex saddle points, and thus semi-classical description of real-time quantum tunneling becomes possible on solid ground if we could solve that problem. - Highlights: • Real-time path integral is studied based on Picard–Lefschetz theory. • Lucid demonstration is given through simple examples of quantum mechanics. • This technique is applied to quantum mechanics of the double-well potential. • Difficulty for practical applications is revealed, and we discuss its generality. • Quantum tunneling is shown to be closely related to complex classical solutions.« less

Empirical Green's function analysis: Taking the next step

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hough, S.E.

1997-01-01

An extension of the empirical Green's function (EGF) method is presented that involves determination of source parameters using standard EGF deconvolution, followed by inversion for a common attenuation parameter for a set of colocated events. Recordings of three or more colocated events can thus be used to constrain a single path attenuation estimate. I apply this method to recordings from the 1995-1996 Ridgecrest, California, earthquake sequence; I analyze four clusters consisting of 13 total events with magnitudes between 2.6 and 4.9. I first obtain corner frequencies, which are used to infer Brune stress drop estimates. I obtain stress drop values of 0.3-53 MPa (with all but one between 0.3 and 11 MPa), with no resolved increase of stress drop with moment. With the corner frequencies constrained, the inferred attenuation parameters are very consistent; they imply an average shear wave quality factor of approximately 20-25 for alluvial sediments within the Indian Wells Valley. Although the resultant spectral fitting (using corner frequency and ??) is good, the residuals are consistent among the clusters analyzed. Their spectral shape is similar to the the theoretical one-dimensional response of a layered low-velocity structure in the valley (an absolute site response cannot be determined by this method, because of an ambiguity between absolute response and source spectral amplitudes). I show that even this subtle site response can significantly bias estimates of corner frequency and ??, if it is ignored in an inversion for only source and path effects. The multiple-EGF method presented in this paper is analogous to a joint inversion for source, path, and site effects; the use of colocated sets of earthquakes appears to offer significant advantages in improving resolution of all three estimates, especially if data are from a single site or sites with similar site response.

UV laser long-path absorption spectroscopy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dorn, Hans-Peter; Brauers, Theo; Neuroth, Rudolf

1994-01-01

Long path Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (DOAS) using a picosecond UV laser as a light source was developed in our institute. Tropospheric OH radicals are measured by their rotational absorption lines around 308 nm. The spectra are obtained using a high resolution spectrograph. The detection system has been improved over the formerly used optomechanical scanning device by application of a photodiode array which increased the observed spectral range by a factor of 6 and which utilizes the light much more effectively leading to a considerable reduction of the measurement time. This technique provides direct measurements of OH because the signal is given by the product of the absorption coefficient and the OH concentration along the light path according to Lambert-Beers law. No calibration is needed. Since the integrated absorption coefficient is well known the accuracy of the measurement essentially depends on the extent to which the OH absorption pattern can be detected in the spectra. No interference by self generated OH radicals in the detection lightpath has been observed. The large bandwidth (greater than 0.15 nm) and the high spectral resolution (1.5 pm) allows absolute determination of interferences by other trace gas absorptions. The measurement error is directly accessible from the absorption-signal to baseline-noise ratio in the spectra. The applicability of the method strongly depends on visibility. Elevated concentrations of aerosols lead to considerable attenuation of the laser light which reduces the S/N-ratio. In the moderately polluted air of Julich, where we performed a number of OH measurement spectra. In addition absorption features of unidentified species were frequently detected. A quantitative deconvolution even of the known species is not easy to achieve and can leave residual structures in the spectra. Thus interferences usually increase the noise and deteriorate the OH detection sensitivity. Using diode arrays for sensitive absorption measurements some specific problems of those detectors have to be solved experimentally (i.e. fixed pattern noise, dark signal noise, nonuniform efficiency of individual elements, spatial sensitivity variations). In order to improve the low spatial resolution we performed laboratory studies using a multiple reflection cell to convert the long path technique to a real in situ point measurement. Under the conditions of field experiments in Julich residual absorbance signals at present are about 1.5x10(exp -4) corresponding to an OH detection sensitivity of 2x10(exp 6) OH/cm(exp 3) using a light path of 5.8 km. Total integration times for one measurement point vary between a few minutes and an hour.

A method to describe inelastic gamma field distribution in neutron gamma density logging.

PubMed

Zhang, Feng; Zhang, Quanying; Liu, Juntao; Wang, Xinguang; Wu, He; Jia, Wenbao; Ti, Yongzhou; Qiu, Fei; Zhang, Xiaoyang

2017-11-01

Pulsed neutron gamma density logging (NGD) is of great significance for radioprotection and density measurement in LWD, however, the current methods have difficulty in quantitative calculation and single factor analysis for the inelastic gamma field distribution. In order to clarify the NGD mechanism, a new method is developed to describe the inelastic gamma field distribution. Based on the fast-neutron scattering and gamma attenuation, the inelastic gamma field distribution is characterized by the inelastic scattering cross section, fast-neutron scattering free path, formation density and other parameters. And the contribution of formation parameters on the field distribution is quantitatively analyzed. The results shows the contribution of density attenuation is opposite to that of inelastic scattering cross section and fast-neutron scattering free path. And as the detector-spacing increases, the density attenuation gradually plays a dominant role in the gamma field distribution, which means large detector-spacing is more favorable for the density measurement. Besides, the relationship of density sensitivity and detector spacing was studied according to this gamma field distribution, therefore, the spacing of near and far gamma ray detector is determined. The research provides theoretical guidance for the tool parameter design and density determination of pulsed neutron gamma density logging technique. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Weinberg propagator of a free massive particle with an arbitrary spin from the BFV-BRST path integral

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zima, V. G.; Fedoruk, S. O.

1999-11-01

The transition amplitude is obtained for a free massive particle of arbitrary spin by calculating the path integral in the index-spinor formulation within the BFV-BRST approach. No renormalizations of the path integral measure were applied. The calculation has given the Weinberg propagator written in the index-free form by the use of an index spinor. The choice of boundary conditions on the index spinor determines the holomorphic or antiholomorphic representation for the canonical description of particle/antiparticle spin.

A study of photon interaction in some building materials: High-volume admixture of blast furnace slag into Portland cement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kurudirek, Murat; Türkmen, İbrahim; Özdemir, Yüksel

2009-09-01

Total mass attenuation coefficients, mean free paths (MFP), half-value (HVT) and tenth-value (TVT) thicknesses of Portland cement and three mixtures have been calculated in function of the energy from 1 keV to 100 GeV. Both in the low- and high-energy region there were significant variations in those parameters where photoelectric process and pair production partially dominates, respectively. In general, the attenuation parameters were found to vary with chemical composition, density of given material and photon energy.

Crossing Boundaries: Nativity, Ethnicity, and Mate Selection

PubMed Central

Qian, Zhenchao; Glick, Jennifer E.; Baston, Christie

2016-01-01

The influx of immigrants has increased diversity among ethnic minorities and indicates that they may take multiple integration paths in American society. Previous research on ethnic integration often focuses on panethnic differences and few have explored ethnic diversity within a racial or panethnic context. Using 2000 U.S. census data for Puerto Rican, Mexican, Chinese, and Filipino origin individuals, we examine differences in marriage and cohabitation with whites, with other minorities, within a panethnic group, and within an ethnic group by nativity status. Ethnic endogamy is strong and, to a less extent, so is panethnic endogamy. Yet, marital or cohabiting unions with whites remain an important path of integration but differ significantly by ethnicity, nativity, age at arrival, and educational attainment. Meanwhile, ethnic differences in marriage and cohabitation with other racial or ethnic minorities are strong. Our analysis supports that unions with whites remain a major path of integration, but other paths of integration also become viable options for all ethnic groups. PMID:22350840

Effect of small and large animal skull bone on photoacoustic signal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Qiuyun; Volinski, Bridget; Hariri, Ali; Fatima, Afreen; Nasiriavanaki, Mohammadreza

2017-03-01

Photoacoustic imaging (PAI) has proved to be a promising non-invasive technique for diagnosis, prognosis and treatment monitoring of neurological disorders in small and large animals. Skull bone effects both light illumination and ultrasound propagation. Hence, the PA signal is largely affected. This study aims to quantify and compare the attenuation of PA signal due to the skull obstacle in the light illumination path, in the ultrasound propagation path, or in both. The effect of mouse, rat, and mesocephalic dog skull bones, ex-vivo, is quantitatively studied.

Rain attenuation measurements: Variability and data quality assessment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Crane, Robert K.

1989-01-01

Year to year variations in the cumulative distributions of rain rate or rain attenuation are evident in any of the published measurements for a single propagation path that span a period of several years of observation. These variations must be described by models for the prediction of rain attenuation statistics. Now that a large measurement data base has been assembled by the International Radio Consultative Committee, the information needed to assess variability is available. On the basis of 252 sample cumulative distribution functions for the occurrence of attenuation by rain, the expected year to year variation in attenuation at a fixed probability level in the 0.1 to 0.001 percent of a year range is estimated to be 27 percent. The expected deviation from an attenuation model prediction for a single year of observations is estimated to exceed 33 percent when any of the available global rain climate model are employed to estimate the rain rate statistics. The probability distribution for the variation in attenuation or rain rate at a fixed fraction of a year is lognormal. The lognormal behavior of the variate was used to compile the statistics for variability.

Lefschetz thimbles in fermionic effective models with repulsive vector-field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mori, Yuto; Kashiwa, Kouji; Ohnishi, Akira

2018-06-01

We discuss two problems in complexified auxiliary fields in fermionic effective models, the auxiliary sign problem associated with the repulsive vector-field and the choice of the cut for the scalar field appearing from the logarithmic function. In the fermionic effective models with attractive scalar and repulsive vector-type interaction, the auxiliary scalar and vector fields appear in the path integral after the bosonization of fermion bilinears. When we make the path integral well-defined by the Wick rotation of the vector field, the oscillating Boltzmann weight appears in the partition function. This "auxiliary" sign problem can be solved by using the Lefschetz-thimble path-integral method, where the integration path is constructed in the complex plane. Another serious obstacle in the numerical construction of Lefschetz thimbles is caused by singular points and cuts induced by multivalued functions of the complexified scalar field in the momentum integration. We propose a new prescription which fixes gradient flow trajectories on the same Riemann sheet in the flow evolution by performing the momentum integration in the complex domain.

Which coordinate system for modelling path integration?

PubMed

Vickerstaff, Robert J; Cheung, Allen

2010-03-21

Path integration is a navigation strategy widely observed in nature where an animal maintains a running estimate, called the home vector, of its location during an excursion. Evidence suggests it is both ancient and ubiquitous in nature, and has been studied for over a century. In that time, canonical and neural network models have flourished, based on a wide range of assumptions, justifications and supporting data. Despite the importance of the phenomenon, consensus and unifying principles appear lacking. A fundamental issue is the neural representation of space needed for biological path integration. This paper presents a scheme to classify path integration systems on the basis of the way the home vector records and updates the spatial relationship between the animal and its home location. Four extended classes of coordinate systems are used to unify and review both canonical and neural network models of path integration, from the arthropod and mammalian literature. This scheme demonstrates analytical equivalence between models which may otherwise appear unrelated, and distinguishes between models which may superficially appear similar. A thorough analysis is carried out of the equational forms of important facets of path integration including updating, steering, searching and systematic errors, using each of the four coordinate systems. The type of available directional cue, namely allothetic or idiothetic, is also considered. It is shown that on balance, the class of home vectors which includes the geocentric Cartesian coordinate system, appears to be the most robust for biological systems. A key conclusion is that deducing computational structure from behavioural data alone will be difficult or impossible, at least in the absence of an analysis of random errors. Consequently it is likely that further theoretical insights into path integration will require an in-depth study of the effect of noise on the four classes of home vectors. Copyright 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Leaky Waves in Metamaterials for Antenna Applications

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-07-01

excitation problems, electromagnetic fields are often represented as Sommerfeld integrals [31,32]. A detailed discussion about Sommerfeld integral is...source removed. In the rest of this section, a de- tailed discussion about Sommerfeld Integral Path is presented. 4.1 Spectral Domain Approach 4.1.1... Sommerfeld integral path for evaluating fields accurately and efficiently, the radiation intensity and directivity of electric/magnetic dipoles over a grounded

Koopman-von Neumann formulation of classical Yang-Mills theories: I

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carta, P.; Gozzi, E.; Mauro, D.

2006-03-01

In this paper we present the Koopman-von Neumann (KvN) formulation of classical non-Abelian gauge field theories. In particular we shall explore the functional (or classical path integral) counterpart of the KvN method. In the quantum path integral quantization of Yang-Mills theories concepts like gauge-fixing and Faddeev-Popov determinant appear in a quite natural way. We will prove that these same objects are needed also in this classical path integral formulation for Yang-Mills theories. We shall also explore the classical path integral counterpart of the BFV formalism and build all the associated universal and gauge charges. These last are quite different from the analog quantum ones and we shall show the relation between the two. This paper lays the foundation of this formalism which, due to the many auxiliary fields present, is rather heavy. Applications to specific topics outlined in the paper will appear in later publications.

Lateral noise attenuation of the advanced propeller of the propfan test assessment aircraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chambers, F. W.; Reddy, N. N.; Bartel, H. W.

1989-01-01

Lateral noise attenuation characteristics of the advanced propeller are determined using the flight test results of the testbed aircraft, Propfan Test Assessment (PTA), with a single, large-scale propfan. The acoustic data were obtained with an array of ground-mounted microphones positioned at distances up to 2.47 km (8100 feet) to the side of the flight path. The aircraft was flown at a Mach number of 0.31 for a variety of operating conditions. The lateral noise attenuation in a frequency range containing the blade passage frequency of the propeller was found to have positive magnitudes on the propfan side and negative magnitudes on the opposite side. The measured attenuation exhibits a strong dependence upon the elevation angle. The results also display a clear dependence upon the angle at which the propeller and nacelle are mounted on the wing (inflow angle).

A Neurocomputational Model of Goal-Directed Navigation in Insect-Inspired Artificial Agents

PubMed Central

Goldschmidt, Dennis; Manoonpong, Poramate; Dasgupta, Sakyasingha

2017-01-01

Despite their small size, insect brains are able to produce robust and efficient navigation in complex environments. Specifically in social insects, such as ants and bees, these navigational capabilities are guided by orientation directing vectors generated by a process called path integration. During this process, they integrate compass and odometric cues to estimate their current location as a vector, called the home vector for guiding them back home on a straight path. They further acquire and retrieve path integration-based vector memories globally to the nest or based on visual landmarks. Although existing computational models reproduced similar behaviors, a neurocomputational model of vector navigation including the acquisition of vector representations has not been described before. Here we present a model of neural mechanisms in a modular closed-loop control—enabling vector navigation in artificial agents. The model consists of a path integration mechanism, reward-modulated global learning, random search, and action selection. The path integration mechanism integrates compass and odometric cues to compute a vectorial representation of the agent's current location as neural activity patterns in circular arrays. A reward-modulated learning rule enables the acquisition of vector memories by associating the local food reward with the path integration state. A motor output is computed based on the combination of vector memories and random exploration. In simulation, we show that the neural mechanisms enable robust homing and localization, even in the presence of external sensory noise. The proposed learning rules lead to goal-directed navigation and route formation performed under realistic conditions. Consequently, we provide a novel approach for vector learning and navigation in a simulated, situated agent linking behavioral observations to their possible underlying neural substrates. PMID:28446872

Option pricing, stochastic volatility, singular dynamics and constrained path integrals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Contreras, Mauricio; Hojman, Sergio A.

2014-01-01

Stochastic volatility models have been widely studied and used in the financial world. The Heston model (Heston, 1993) [7] is one of the best known models to deal with this issue. These stochastic volatility models are characterized by the fact that they explicitly depend on a correlation parameter ρ which relates the two Brownian motions that drive the stochastic dynamics associated to the volatility and the underlying asset. Solutions to the Heston model in the context of option pricing, using a path integral approach, are found in Lemmens et al. (2008) [21] while in Baaquie (2007,1997) [12,13] propagators for different stochastic volatility models are constructed. In all previous cases, the propagator is not defined for extreme cases ρ=±1. It is therefore necessary to obtain a solution for these extreme cases and also to understand the origin of the divergence of the propagator. In this paper we study in detail a general class of stochastic volatility models for extreme values ρ=±1 and show that in these two cases, the associated classical dynamics corresponds to a system with second class constraints, which must be dealt with using Dirac’s method for constrained systems (Dirac, 1958,1967) [22,23] in order to properly obtain the propagator in the form of a Euclidean Hamiltonian path integral (Henneaux and Teitelboim, 1992) [25]. After integrating over momenta, one gets an Euclidean Lagrangian path integral without constraints, which in the case of the Heston model corresponds to a path integral of a repulsive radial harmonic oscillator. In all the cases studied, the price of the underlying asset is completely determined by one of the second class constraints in terms of volatility and plays no active role in the path integral.

A Neurocomputational Model of Goal-Directed Navigation in Insect-Inspired Artificial Agents.

PubMed

Goldschmidt, Dennis; Manoonpong, Poramate; Dasgupta, Sakyasingha

2017-01-01

Despite their small size, insect brains are able to produce robust and efficient navigation in complex environments. Specifically in social insects, such as ants and bees, these navigational capabilities are guided by orientation directing vectors generated by a process called path integration. During this process, they integrate compass and odometric cues to estimate their current location as a vector, called the home vector for guiding them back home on a straight path. They further acquire and retrieve path integration-based vector memories globally to the nest or based on visual landmarks. Although existing computational models reproduced similar behaviors, a neurocomputational model of vector navigation including the acquisition of vector representations has not been described before. Here we present a model of neural mechanisms in a modular closed-loop control-enabling vector navigation in artificial agents. The model consists of a path integration mechanism, reward-modulated global learning, random search, and action selection. The path integration mechanism integrates compass and odometric cues to compute a vectorial representation of the agent's current location as neural activity patterns in circular arrays. A reward-modulated learning rule enables the acquisition of vector memories by associating the local food reward with the path integration state. A motor output is computed based on the combination of vector memories and random exploration. In simulation, we show that the neural mechanisms enable robust homing and localization, even in the presence of external sensory noise. The proposed learning rules lead to goal-directed navigation and route formation performed under realistic conditions. Consequently, we provide a novel approach for vector learning and navigation in a simulated, situated agent linking behavioral observations to their possible underlying neural substrates.

Propagation effects on satellite systems at frequencies below 10 GHz, a handbook for satellite systems design, 1st edition

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Flock, W. L.

1983-01-01

Satellite communications below about 6 GHz may need to contend with ionospheric effects, including Faraday rotation and ionospheric scintillation, which become increasingly significant with decreasing frequency. Scintillation is most serious in equatorial, auroral, and polar latitudes; even the 4 to 6 GHz frequency range turns out to be subject to scintillation to a significant degree of equatorial latitudes. Faraday rotation, excess range or time delay, phase advance, Doppler frequency fluctuations, and dispersion are proportional to total electron content (TEC) or its variation along the path. Tropospheric refraction and fading affects low angle satellite transmissions as well as terrestrial paths. Attenuation and depolarization due to rain become less important with decreasing frequency but need consideration for frequencies of about 4 GHz and higher. Empirically derived relations are useful for estimating the attenuation expected due to rain for particular percentages of time. Aeronautical, maritime, and land mobile satellite services are subject to fading due to multipath propagation.

Frequency-dependent seismic attenuation in the eastern United States as observed from the 2011 central Virginia earthquake and aftershock sequence

USGS Publications Warehouse

McNamara, Daniel E.; Gee, Lind; Benz, Harley M.; Chapman, Martin

2014-01-01

Ground shaking due to earthquakes in the eastern United States (EUS) is felt at significantly greater distances than in the western United States (WUS) and for some earthquakes it has been shown to display a strong preferential direction. Shaking intensity variation can be due to propagation path effects, source directivity, and/or site amplification. In this paper, we use S and Lg waves recorded from the 2011 central Virginia earthquake and aftershock sequence, in the Central Virginia Seismic Zone, to quantify attenuation as frequency‐dependent Q(f). In support of observations based on shaking intensity, we observe high Q values in the EUS relative to previous studies in the WUS with especially efficient propagation along the structural trend of the Appalachian mountains. Our analysis of Q(f) quantifies the path effects of the northeast‐trending felt distribution previously inferred from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) “Did You Feel It” data, historic intensity data, and the asymmetrical distribution of rockfalls and landslides.

path integral approach to closed form pricing formulas in the Heston framework.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lemmens, Damiaan; Wouters, Michiel; Tempere, Jacques; Foulon, Sven

2008-03-01

We present a path integral approach for finding closed form formulas for option prices in the framework of the Heston model. The first model for determining option prices was the Black-Scholes model, which assumed that the logreturn followed a Wiener process with a given drift and constant volatility. To provide a realistic description of the market, the Black-Scholes results must be extended to include stochastic volatility. This is achieved by the Heston model, which assumes that the volatility follows a mean reverting square root process. Current applications of the Heston model are hampered by the unavailability of fast numerical methods, due to a lack of closed-form formulae. Therefore the search for closed form solutions is an essential step before the qualitatively better stochastic volatility models will be used in practice. To attain this goal we outline a simplified path integral approach yielding straightforward results for vanilla Heston options with correlation. Extensions to barrier options and other path-dependent option are discussed, and the new derivation is compared to existing results obtained from alternative path-integral approaches (Dragulescu, Kleinert).

Path integration in tactile perception of shapes.

PubMed

Moscatelli, Alessandro; Naceri, Abdeldjallil; Ernst, Marc O

2014-11-01

Whenever we move the hand across a surface, tactile signals provide information about the relative velocity between the skin and the surface. If the system were able to integrate the tactile velocity information over time, cutaneous touch may provide an estimate of the relative displacement between the hand and the surface. Here, we asked whether humans are able to form a reliable representation of the motion path from tactile cues only, integrating motion information over time. In order to address this issue, we conducted three experiments using tactile motion and asked participants (1) to estimate the length of a simulated triangle, (2) to reproduce the shape of a simulated triangular path, and (3) to estimate the angle between two-line segments. Participants were able to accurately indicate the length of the path, whereas the perceived direction was affected by a direction bias (inward bias). The response pattern was thus qualitatively similar to the ones reported in classical path integration studies involving locomotion. However, we explain the directional biases as the result of a tactile motion aftereffect. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Sources, paths, and concepts for reduction of noise in the test section of the NASA Langley 4x7m wind tunnel

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hayden, R. E.; Wilby, J. F.

1984-01-01

NASA is investigating the feasibility of modifying the 4x7m Wind Tunnel at the Langley Research Center to make it suitable for a variety of aeroacoustic testing applications, most notably model helicopter rotors. The amount of noise reduction required to meet NASA's goal for test section background noise was determined, the predominant sources and paths causing the background noise were quantified, and trade-off studies between schemes to reduce fan noise at the source and those to attenuate the sound generated in the circuit between the sources and the test section were carried out. An extensive data base is also presented on circuit sources and paths.

Accelerated sampling by infinite swapping of path integral molecular dynamics with surface hopping

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lu, Jianfeng; Zhou, Zhennan

2018-02-01

To accelerate the thermal equilibrium sampling of multi-level quantum systems, the infinite swapping limit of a recently proposed multi-level ring polymer representation is investigated. In the infinite swapping limit, the ring polymer evolves according to an averaged Hamiltonian with respect to all possible surface index configurations of the ring polymer and thus connects the surface hopping approach to the mean-field path-integral molecular dynamics. A multiscale integrator for the infinite swapping limit is also proposed to enable efficient sampling based on the limiting dynamics. Numerical results demonstrate the huge improvement of sampling efficiency of the infinite swapping compared with the direct simulation of path-integral molecular dynamics with surface hopping.

Shock and vibration response of multistage structure

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, S. Y.; Liyeos, J. G.; Tang, S. S.

1968-01-01

Study of the shock and vibration response of a multistage structure employed analytically, lumped-mass, continuous-beam, multimode, and matrix-iteration methods. The study was made on the load paths, transmissibility, and attenuation properties along a longitudinal axis of a long, slender structure with increasing degree of complexity.

9-year distributions of rain intensities measured in Prague and their utilization in telecommunications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kvicera, V.; Grabner, M.

2012-04-01

Experimental research in the Department of Frequency Engineering of the Czech Metrology Institute (CMI) in Prague, the Czech Republic, is focused on stability of received signals on terrestrial radio and optical communication paths. Hydrometeors (rain, snow, fog, hails) can cause serious attenuation of electromagnetic waves in the frequency bands above 10 GHz and the availability performances of terrestrial radio communication systems are seriously affected by heavy hydrometeors events. The rain intensity data is usually used for the calculations of attenuation due to rain on terrestrial radio links in accordance with either the relevant ITU-R Recommendation or other methods. Therefore, our experimental research is also focused on our own meteorological measurements in the vicinity of experimental radio and optical paths. The heated tipping-bucket rain gauge with the collector area of 500 cm2 and the rain amount per tip of 0.1 mm is used at CMI for the measurements of intensities of hydrometeors. The time of tips is recorded with uncertainty of 1 second. Hydrometeors intensity data obtained from January 2003 to December 2011 (9 years of observation) was statistically processed over the individual years. All the recorded individual hydrometeor events were compared with the concurrent meteorological conditions and were carefully categorized according to the types of individual hydrometeors, i.e. rain, rain with snow, rain with hails, snow, fog, fog with rain, fog with snow, and fog with rain and snow. The obtained cumulative distributions (CDs) of intensities of individual hydrometeors over 9 years of observation will be presented and compared with the CD of intensities of all hydrometeors together. The rain amounts were examined too. The obtained rain amounts for individual years and the average rain amounts for individual months over the 9-year period will be given. The obtained CD of average 1-minute rain intensities for the average year over the 9-year period of observation was used for the calculations of CDs of attenuation due to rain on terrestrial radio paths in accordance with the relevant recommendation of the ITU-R. The examples of the calculated CDs of attenuation due to rain will be presented for radio communication links with different path lengths working in different frequency bands. The obtained CDs can be used for the assessment of availability performances of terrestrial radio communication links in the climatic region where the rain intensities were measured. The examples will be given. Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports of the Czech Republic under the Project No. OC09076 supported the described work.

Path integrals and large deviations in stochastic hybrid systems.

PubMed

Bressloff, Paul C; Newby, Jay M

2014-04-01

We construct a path-integral representation of solutions to a stochastic hybrid system, consisting of one or more continuous variables evolving according to a piecewise-deterministic dynamics. The differential equations for the continuous variables are coupled to a set of discrete variables that satisfy a continuous-time Markov process, which means that the differential equations are only valid between jumps in the discrete variables. Examples of stochastic hybrid systems arise in biophysical models of stochastic ion channels, motor-driven intracellular transport, gene networks, and stochastic neural networks. We use the path-integral representation to derive a large deviation action principle for a stochastic hybrid system. Minimizing the associated action functional with respect to the set of all trajectories emanating from a metastable state (assuming that such a minimization scheme exists) then determines the most probable paths of escape. Moreover, evaluating the action functional along a most probable path generates the so-called quasipotential used in the calculation of mean first passage times. We illustrate the theory by considering the optimal paths of escape from a metastable state in a bistable neural network.

Integrated Flight Path Planning System and Flight Control System for Unmanned Helicopters

PubMed Central

Jan, Shau Shiun; Lin, Yu Hsiang

2011-01-01

This paper focuses on the design of an integrated navigation and guidance system for unmanned helicopters. The integrated navigation system comprises two systems: the Flight Path Planning System (FPPS) and the Flight Control System (FCS). The FPPS finds the shortest flight path by the A-Star (A*) algorithm in an adaptive manner for different flight conditions, and the FPPS can add a forbidden zone to stop the unmanned helicopter from crossing over into dangerous areas. In this paper, the FPPS computation time is reduced by the multi-resolution scheme, and the flight path quality is improved by the path smoothing methods. Meanwhile, the FCS includes the fuzzy inference systems (FISs) based on the fuzzy logic. By using expert knowledge and experience to train the FIS, the controller can operate the unmanned helicopter without dynamic models. The integrated system of the FPPS and the FCS is aimed at providing navigation and guidance to the mission destination and it is implemented by coupling the flight simulation software, X-Plane, and the computing software, MATLAB. Simulations are performed and shown in real time three-dimensional animations. Finally, the integrated system is demonstrated to work successfully in controlling the unmanned helicopter to operate in various terrains of a digital elevation model (DEM). PMID:22164029

Integrated flight path planning system and flight control system for unmanned helicopters.

PubMed

Jan, Shau Shiun; Lin, Yu Hsiang

2011-01-01

This paper focuses on the design of an integrated navigation and guidance system for unmanned helicopters. The integrated navigation system comprises two systems: the Flight Path Planning System (FPPS) and the Flight Control System (FCS). The FPPS finds the shortest flight path by the A-Star (A*) algorithm in an adaptive manner for different flight conditions, and the FPPS can add a forbidden zone to stop the unmanned helicopter from crossing over into dangerous areas. In this paper, the FPPS computation time is reduced by the multi-resolution scheme, and the flight path quality is improved by the path smoothing methods. Meanwhile, the FCS includes the fuzzy inference systems (FISs) based on the fuzzy logic. By using expert knowledge and experience to train the FIS, the controller can operate the unmanned helicopter without dynamic models. The integrated system of the FPPS and the FCS is aimed at providing navigation and guidance to the mission destination and it is implemented by coupling the flight simulation software, X-Plane, and the computing software, MATLAB. Simulations are performed and shown in real time three-dimensional animations. Finally, the integrated system is demonstrated to work successfully in controlling the unmanned helicopter to operate in various terrains of a digital elevation model (DEM).

Covariant path integrals on hyperbolic surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schaefer, Joe

1997-11-01

DeWitt's covariant formulation of path integration [B. De Witt, "Dynamical theory in curved spaces. I. A review of the classical and quantum action principles," Rev. Mod. Phys. 29, 377-397 (1957)] has two practical advantages over the traditional methods of "lattice approximations;" there is no ordering problem, and classical symmetries are manifestly preserved at the quantum level. Applying the spectral theorem for unbounded self-adjoint operators, we provide a rigorous proof of the convergence of certain path integrals on Riemann surfaces of constant curvature -1. The Pauli-DeWitt curvature correction term arises, as in DeWitt's work. Introducing a Fuchsian group Γ of the first kind, and a continuous, bounded, Γ-automorphic potential V, we obtain a Feynman-Kac formula for the automorphic Schrödinger equation on the Riemann surface ΓH. We analyze the Wick rotation and prove the strong convergence of the so-called Feynman maps [K. D. Elworthy, Path Integration on Manifolds, Mathematical Aspects of Superspace, edited by Seifert, Clarke, and Rosenblum (Reidel, Boston, 1983), pp. 47-90] on a dense set of states. Finally, we give a new proof of some results in C. Grosche and F. Steiner, "The path integral on the Poincare upper half plane and for Liouville quantum mechanics," Phys. Lett. A 123, 319-328 (1987).

Review of computer simulations of isotope effects on biochemical reactions: From the Bigeleisen equation to Feynman's path integral.

PubMed

Wong, Kin-Yiu; Xu, Yuqing; Xu, Liang

2015-11-01

Enzymatic reactions are integral components in many biological functions and malfunctions. The iconic structure of each reaction path for elucidating the reaction mechanism in details is the molecular structure of the rate-limiting transition state (RLTS). But RLTS is very hard to get caught or to get visualized by experimentalists. In spite of the lack of explicit molecular structure of the RLTS in experiment, we still can trace out the RLTS unique "fingerprints" by measuring the isotope effects on the reaction rate. This set of "fingerprints" is considered as a most direct probe of RLTS. By contrast, for computer simulations, oftentimes molecular structures of a number of TS can be precisely visualized on computer screen, however, theoreticians are not sure which TS is the actual rate-limiting one. As a result, this is an excellent stage setting for a perfect "marriage" between experiment and theory for determining the structure of RLTS, along with the reaction mechanism, i.e., experimentalists are responsible for "fingerprinting", whereas theoreticians are responsible for providing candidates that match the "fingerprints". In this Review, the origin of isotope effects on a chemical reaction is discussed from the perspectives of classical and quantum worlds, respectively (e.g., the origins of the inverse kinetic isotope effects and all the equilibrium isotope effects are purely from quantum). The conventional Bigeleisen equation for isotope effect calculations, as well as its refined version in the framework of Feynman's path integral and Kleinert's variational perturbation (KP) theory for systematically incorporating anharmonicity and (non-parabolic) quantum tunneling, are also presented. In addition, the outstanding interplay between theory and experiment for successfully deducing the RLTS structures and the reaction mechanisms is demonstrated by applications on biochemical reactions, namely models of bacterial squalene-to-hopene polycyclization and RNA 2'-O-transphosphorylation. For all these applications, we used our recently-developed path-integral method based on the KP theory, called automated integration-free path-integral (AIF-PI) method, to perform ab initio path-integral calculations of isotope effects. As opposed to the conventional path-integral molecular dynamics (PIMD) and Monte Carlo (PIMC) simulations, values calculated from our AIF-PI path-integral method can be as precise as (not as accurate as) the numerical precision of the computing machine. Lastly, comments are made on the general challenges in theoretical modeling of candidates matching the experimental "fingerprints" of RLTS. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Enzyme Transition States from Theory and Experiment. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

47 CFR 80.769 - Shadow loss.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 5 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Shadow loss. 80.769 Section 80.769... MARITIME SERVICES Standards for Computing Public Coast Station VHF Coverage § 80.769 Shadow loss. Where the transmission path is obstructed the received signal must be adjusted to include shadow loss. Attenuation due to...

Multispectral scanner system parameter study and analysis software system description, volume 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Landgrebe, D. A. (Principal Investigator); Mobasseri, B. G.; Wiersma, D. J.; Wiswell, E. R.; Mcgillem, C. D.; Anuta, P. E.

1978-01-01

The author has identified the following significant results. The integration of the available methods provided the analyst with the unified scanner analysis package (USAP), the flexibility and versatility of which was superior to many previous integrated techniques. The USAP consisted of three main subsystems; (1) a spatial path, (2) a spectral path, and (3) a set of analytic classification accuracy estimators which evaluated the system performance. The spatial path consisted of satellite and/or aircraft data, data correlation analyzer, scanner IFOV, and random noise model. The output of the spatial path was fed into the analytic classification and accuracy predictor. The spectral path consisted of laboratory and/or field spectral data, EXOSYS data retrieval, optimum spectral function calculation, data transformation, and statistics calculation. The output of the spectral path was fended into the stratified posterior performance estimator.

Neural basis of the cognitive map: path integration does not require hippocampus or entorhinal cortex.

PubMed

Shrager, Yael; Kirwan, C Brock; Squire, Larry R

2008-08-19

The hippocampus and entorhinal cortex have been linked to both memory functions and to spatial cognition, but it has been unclear how these ideas relate to each other. An important part of spatial cognition is the ability to keep track of a reference location using self-motion cues (sometimes referred to as path integration), and it has been suggested that the hippocampus or entorhinal cortex is essential for this ability. Patients with hippocampal lesions or larger lesions that also included entorhinal cortex were led on paths while blindfolded (up to 15 m in length) and were asked to actively maintain the path in mind. Patients pointed to and estimated their distance from the start location as accurately as controls. A rotation condition confirmed that performance was based on self-motion cues. When demands on long-term memory were increased, patients were impaired. Thus, in humans, the hippocampus and entorhinal cortex are not essential for path integration.

Microwave Backscatter and Attenuation Dependence of Leaf Area Index for Flooded Rice Fields

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Durden, Stephen L.; Morrissey, Leslie A.; Livingston, Gerald P.

1995-01-01

Wetlands are important for their role in global climate as a source of methane and other reduced trace gases. As part of an effort to determine whether radar is suitable for wetland vegetation monitoring, we have studied the dependence of microwave backscatter and attenuation on leaf area index (LAI) for flooded rice fields. We find that the radar return from a flooded rice field does show dependence on LAI. In particular, the C-band VV cross section per unit area decreases with increasing LAI. A simple model for scattering from rice fields is derived and fit to the observed HH and VV data. The model fit provides insight into the relation of backscatter to LAI and is also used to calculate the canopy path attenuation as a function of LAI.

Data analysis report on ATS-F COMSAT millimeter wave propagation experiment, part 1. [effects of hydrometeors on ground to satellite communication

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hyde, G.

1976-01-01

The 13/18 GHz COMSAT Propagation Experiment (CPE) was performed to measure attenuation caused by hydrometeors along slant paths from transmitting terminals on the ground to the ATS-6 satellite. The effectiveness of site diversity in overcoming this impairment was also studied. Problems encountered in assembling a valid data base of rain induced attenuation data for statistical analysis are considered. The procedures used to obtain the various statistics are then outlined. The graphs and tables of statistical data for the 15 dual frequency (13 and 18 GHz) site diversity locations are discussed. Cumulative rain rate statistics for the Fayetteville and Boston sites based on point rainfall data collected are presented along with extrapolations of the attenuation and point rainfall data.

Addendum to "Free energies from integral equation theories: enforcing path independence".

PubMed

Kast, Stefan M

2006-01-01

The variational formalism developed for the analysis of the path dependence of free energies from integral equation theories [S. M. Kast, Phys. Rev. E 67, 041203 (2003)] is extended in order to allow for the three-dimensional treatment of arbitrarily shaped solutes.

A theory for the radiation of magnetohydrodynamic surface waves and body waves into the solar corona

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Davila, Joseph M.

1988-01-01

The Green's function for the slab coronal hole is obtained explicitly. The Fourier integral representation for the radiated field inside and outside the coronal hole waveguide is obtained. The radiated field outside the coronal hole is calculated using the method of steepest descents. It is shown that the radiated field can be written as the sum of two contributions: (1) a contribution from the integral along the steepest descent path and (2) a contribution from all the poles of the integrand between the path of the original integral and the steepest descent path. The free oscillations of the waveguide can be associated with the pole contributions in the steepest descent representation for the Green's function. These pole contributions are essentially generalized surface waves with a maximum amplitude near the interface which separates the plasma inside the coronal hole from the surrounding background corona. The path contribution to the integral is essentially the power radiated in body waves.

Self-organizing path integration using a linked continuous attractor and competitive network: path integration of head direction.

PubMed

Stringer, Simon M; Rolls, Edmund T

2006-12-01

A key issue is how networks in the brain learn to perform path integration, that is update a represented position using a velocity signal. Using head direction cells as an example, we show that a competitive network could self-organize to learn to respond to combinations of head direction and angular head rotation velocity. These combination cells can then be used to drive a continuous attractor network to the next head direction based on the incoming rotation signal. An associative synaptic modification rule with a short term memory trace enables preceding combination cell activity during training to be associated with the next position in the continuous attractor network. The network accounts for the presence of neurons found in the brain that respond to combinations of head direction and angular head rotation velocity. Analogous networks in the hippocampal system could self-organize to perform path integration of place and spatial view representations.

Application of path-integral quantization to indistinguishable particle systems topologically confined by a magnetic field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jacak, Janusz E.

2018-01-01

We demonstrate an original development of path-integral quantization in the case of a multiply connected configuration space of indistinguishable charged particles on a 2D manifold and exposed to a strong perpendicular magnetic field. The system occurs to be exceptionally homotopy-rich and the structure of the homotopy essentially depends on the magnetic field strength resulting in multiloop trajectories at specific conditions. We have proved, by a generalization of the Bohr-Sommerfeld quantization rule, that the size of a magnetic field flux quantum grows for multiloop orbits like (2 k +1 ) h/c with the number of loops k . Utilizing this property for electrons on the 2D substrate jellium, we have derived upon the path integration a complete FQHE hierarchy in excellent consistence with experiments. The path integral has been next developed to a sum over configurations, displaying various patterns of trajectory homotopies (topological configurations), which in the nonstationary case of quantum kinetics, reproduces some unclear formerly details in the longitudinal resistivity observed in experiments.

Amplitude and angle of arrival measurements on a 28.56 GHz Earth-space path

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Devasirvatham, D. M. J.; Hodge, D. B.

1981-01-01

The amplitude and angle of arrival measurements on an Earth-space path using the 28.56 GHz COMSTAR D3 satellite beacon are described. These measurements were made by the Ohio State University ElectroScience Laboratory during the period September 1978 to September 1979. Monthly, quarterly, and annual distributions of attenuation, angle of arrival, and variance of both these parameters are reported. During this period, fades exceeding 29 dB for .00% of the time and angle of arrival fluctuations exceeding .12 degrees for .01% of the time were observed.

Imaging fluid-related subduction processes beneath Central Java (Indonesia) using seismic attenuation tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bohm, Mirjam; Haberland, Christian; Asch, Günter

2013-04-01

We use local earthquake data observed by the amphibious, temporary seismic MERAMEX array to derive spatial variations of seismic attenuation (Qp) in the crust and upper mantle beneath Central Java. The path-averaged attenuation values (t∗) of a high quality subset of 84 local earthquakes were calculated by a spectral inversion technique. These 1929 t∗-values inverted by a least-squares tomographic inversion yield the 3D distribution of the specific attenuation (Qp). Analysis of the model resolution matrix and synthetic recovery tests were used to investigate the confidence of the Qp-model. We notice a prominent zone of increased attenuation beneath and north of the modern volcanic arc at depths down to 15 km. Most of this anomaly seems to be related to the Eocene-Miocene Kendeng Basin (mainly in the eastern part of the study area). Enhanced attenuation is also found in the upper crust in the direct vicinity of recent volcanoes pointing towards zones of partial melts, presence of fluids and increased temperatures in the middle to upper crust. The middle and lower crust seems not to be associated with strong heating and the presence of melts throughout the arc. Enhanced attenuation above the subducting slab beneath the marine forearc seems to be due to the presence of fluids.

GPR measurements of attenuation in concrete

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

Eisenmann, David, E-mail: djeisen@cnde.iastate.edu; Margetan, Frank J., E-mail: djeisen@cnde.iastate.edu; Pavel, Brittney, E-mail: djeisen@cnde.iastate.edu

2015-03-31

Ground-penetrating radar (GPR) signals from concrete structures are affected by several phenomenon, including: (1) transmission and reflection coefficients at interfaces; (2) the radiation patterns of the antenna(s) being used; and (3) the material properties of concrete and any embedded objects. In this paper we investigate different schemes for determining the electromagnetic (EM) attenuation of concrete from measured signals obtained using commercially-available GPR equipment. We adapt procedures commonly used in ultrasonic inspections where one compares the relative strengths of two or more signals having different travel paths through the material of interest. After correcting for beam spread (i.e., diffraction), interface phenomena,more » and equipment amplification settings, any remaining signal differences are assumed to be due to attenuation thus allowing the attenuation coefficient (say, in dB of loss per inch of travel) to be estimated. We begin with a brief overview of our approach, and then discuss how diffraction corrections were determined for our two 1.6 GHz GPR antennas. We then present results of attenuation measurements for two types of concrete using both pulse/echo and pitch/catch measurement setups.« less

GPR measurements of attenuation in concrete

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eisenmann, David; Margetan, Frank J.; Pavel, Brittney

2015-03-01

Ground-penetrating radar (GPR) signals from concrete structures are affected by several phenomenon, including: (1) transmission and reflection coefficients at interfaces; (2) the radiation patterns of the antenna(s) being used; and (3) the material properties of concrete and any embedded objects. In this paper we investigate different schemes for determining the electromagnetic (EM) attenuation of concrete from measured signals obtained using commercially-available GPR equipment. We adapt procedures commonly used in ultrasonic inspections where one compares the relative strengths of two or more signals having different travel paths through the material of interest. After correcting for beam spread (i.e., diffraction), interface phenomena, and equipment amplification settings, any remaining signal differences are assumed to be due to attenuation thus allowing the attenuation coefficient (say, in dB of loss per inch of travel) to be estimated. We begin with a brief overview of our approach, and then discuss how diffraction corrections were determined for our two 1.6 GHz GPR antennas. We then present results of attenuation measurements for two types of concrete using both pulse/echo and pitch/catch measurement setups.

Colored thunderstorms.

PubMed

Gedzelman, Stanley David

2017-07-01

Three scenarios that produce colored thunderstorms are simulated. In Scenario #1, the thunderstorm's sunlit face exhibits a color gradient from white or yellow at top to red at base when the sun is near the horizon. It is simulated with a second-order scattering model as a combination of sunlight and skylight reflected from the cloud face that is attenuated and reddened by Rayleigh and Mie scattering over the long optical path near sunset that increases from cloud top to base. In Scenario #2, the base of the precipitation shaft appears luminous green-blue when surrounded by a much darker arcus cloud. It is simulated as multiply scattered light transmitted through the precipitation shaft using a Monte Carlo model that includes absorption by liquid water and ice. The color occurs over a wide range of solar zenith angles with large liquid water content, but the precipitation shaft is only bright when hydrometeors are large. Attenuation of the light by Rayleigh and Mie scattering outside the precipitation shaft shifts the spectrum to green when viewed from a distance of several kilometers. In Scenario #3, the shaded cloud face exhibits a "sickly" yellow-green color. It is simulated with a second-order scattering model as the result of distant skylight that originates in the sunlit region beyond an opaque anvil of order 40 km wide but is attenuated by Rayleigh and Mie scattering in its path to the cloud and observer.

PathJam: a new service for integrating biological pathway information.

PubMed

Glez-Peña, Daniel; Reboiro-Jato, Miguel; Domínguez, Rubén; Gómez-López, Gonzalo; Pisano, David G; Fdez-Riverola, Florentino

2010-10-28

Biological pathways are crucial to much of the scientific research today including the study of specific biological processes related with human diseases. PathJam is a new comprehensive and freely accessible web-server application integrating scattered human pathway annotation from several public sources. The tool has been designed for both (i) being intuitive for wet-lab users providing statistical enrichment analysis of pathway annotations and (ii) giving support to the development of new integrative pathway applications. PathJam’s unique features and advantages include interactive graphs linking pathways and genes of interest, downloadable results in fully compatible formats, GSEA compatible output files and a standardized RESTful API.

Terahertz atmospheric attenuation and continuum effects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Slocum, David M.; Goyette, Thomas M.; Slingerland, Elizabeth J.; Giles, Robert H.; Nixon, William E.

2013-05-01

Remote sensing over long path lengths has become of greater interest in the terahertz frequency region. Applications such as pollution monitoring and detection of energetic chemicals are of particular interest. Although there has been much attention to atmospheric effects over narrow frequency windows, accurate measurements across a wide spectrum is lacking. The water vapor continuum absorption spectrum was investigated using Fourier Transform Spectroscopy. The continuum effect gives rise to an excess absorption that is unaccounted for in just a resonant line spectrum simulation. The transmission of broadband terahertz radiation from 0.300THz - 1.5THz through air with varying relative humidity levels was recorded for multiple path lengths. From these data, the absorption coefficient as a function of frequency was determined and compared with model calculations. The intensity and location of the strong absorption lines were in good agreement with spectral databases such as the 2008 HITRAN database and the JPL database. However, a noticeable continuum effect was observed particularly in the atmospheric transmission windows. A small discrepancy still remained even after accounting for continuum absorption using the best available data from the literature. This discrepancy, when projected over a one kilometer path length, typical of distances used in remote sensing, can cause a 30dB difference between calculated and observed attenuation. From the experimental and resonant line simulation spectra the air-broadening continuum parameter was calculated and compared with values available in the literature.

Rainfall measurement from opportunistic use of earth-space link in Ku Band

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barthès, L.; Mallet, C.

2013-02-01

The present study deals with the development of a low cost microwave device devoted to measure average rain rate observed along earth - satellite links. The principle is to use rain atmospheric attenuation along Earth - space links in Ku-band to deduce the path averaged rain rate. These links are characterized by a path length of a few km through the troposphere. Ground based power measurements are carried out by receiving TV channels from different geostationary satellites in Ku-band. The major difficulty in this study is to retrieve rain characteristics among many fluctuations of the received signal which are due to atmospheric scintillations, changes in the composition of the atmosphere (water vapour concentration, cloud water content) or satellite features (variation of the emitted power, satellite motions). In order to perform a feasibility study of such a device, a measurement campaign has been performed for five months near Paris. This paper proposes an algorithm based on an artificial neural network to identify drought and rainy periods and to suppress the variability of the received signal due to no-rain effects. Taking into account the height of the rain layer, rain attenuation is then inverted to obtain path averaged rain rate. Obtained rainfall rates are compared with co-located rain gauges and radar measurements on the whole experiment period, then the most significant rainy events are analyzed.

Integrative Families and Systems Treatment: A Middle Path toward Integrating Common and Specific Factors in Evidence-Based Family Therapy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fraser, J. Scott; Solovey, Andrew D.; Grove, David; Lee, Mo Yee; Greene, Gilbert J.

2012-01-01

A moderate common factors approach is proposed as a synthesis or middle path to integrate common and specific factors in evidence-based approaches to high-risk youth and families. The debate in family therapy between common and specific factors camps is reviewed and followed by suggestions from the literature for synthesis and creative flexibility…

Pulse stretcher

DOEpatents

Horton, James A.

1994-01-01

Apparatus (20) for increasing the length of a laser pulse to reduce its peak power without substantial loss in the average power of the pulse. The apparatus (20) uses a White cell (10) having a plurality of optical delay paths (18a-18d) of successively increasing number of passes between the field mirror (13) and the objective mirrors (11 and 12). A pulse (26) from a laser (27) travels through a multi-leg reflective path (28) between a beam splitter (21) and a totally reflective mirror (24) to the laser output (37). The laser pulse (26) is also simultaneously injected through the beam splitter (21) to the input mirrors (14a-14d) of the optical delay paths (18a-18d). The pulses from the output mirrors (16a-16d) of the optical delay paths (18a-18d) go simultaneously to the laser output (37) and to the input mirrors ( 14b-14d) of the longer optical delay paths. The beam splitter (21) is 50% reflective and 50% transmissive to provide equal attenuation of all of the pulses at the laser output (37).

Status of the Olympus experiment at CRC

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rogers, David V.

1992-01-01

The status of the Olympus Propagation Experiment of the Communications Research Centre in Ottawa, Canada, is briefly summarized. Path attenuation measurements at multiple frequencies correlated with concurrent dual polarized radar data provide a unique method to investigate propagation effects. An experiment of this type is being implemented by the Communications Research Centre (CRC) on the grounds of the National Research Council of Canada in Ottawa. Beacon receivers monitor signals from the Olympus satellite at 12.5, 19.77, and 29.66 GHz at a path elevation angle of 14.2 deg. Sky noise radiometers operating near the same frequencies and pointed along the same path provide additional propagation information. A colocated dual-polarized 9.6-GHz radar probes the precipitation state on the path, permitting identification of precipitation regimes that cause the observed impairments. The Olympus experiment configuration is displayed pictorially. Information on path propagation phenomena can be deduced by correlating the radar, beacon, and sky noise data. Melting layer effects and propagation losses for higher time percentages are prime interests. Data collected by Diversitel Communications during equipment verification tests are presented.

Equalizing secondary path effects using the periodicity of fMRI acoustic noise.

PubMed

Kannan, Govind; Milani, Ali A; Panahi, Issa; Briggs, Richard

2008-01-01

Non-minimum phase secondary path has a direct effect on achieving a desired noise attenuation level in active noise control (ANC) systems. The adaptive noise canceling filter is often a causal FIR filter which may not be able to sufficiently equalize the effect of a non-minimum phase secondary path, since in theory only a non-causal filter can equalize it. However a non-causal stable filter can be found to equalize the non-minimum phase effect of secondary path. Realization of non-causal stable filters requires knowledge of future values of input signal. In this paper we develop methods for equalizing the non-minimum phase property of the secondary path and improving the performance of an ANC system by exploiting the periodicity of fMRI acoustic noise. It has been shown that the scanner noise component is highly periodic and hence predictable which enables easy realization of non-causal filtering. Improvement in performance due to the proposed methods (with and without the equalizer) is shown for periodic fMRI acoustic noise.

Measurement of the ultrasound attenuation and dispersion in whole human blood and its components from 0-70 MHz.

PubMed

Treeby, Bradley E; Zhang, Edward Z; Thomas, Alison S; Cox, Ben T

2011-02-01

The ultrasound attenuation coefficient and dispersion from 0-70 MHz in whole human blood and its components (red blood cells and plasma) at 37°C is reported. The measurements are made using a fixed path substitution technique that exploits optical mechanisms for the generation and detection of ultrasound. This allows the measurements to cover a broad frequency range with a single source and receiver. The measured attenuation coefficient and dispersion in solutions of red blood cells and physiological saline for total haemoglobin concentrations of 10, 15 and 20 g/dL are presented. The attenuation coefficient and dispersion in whole human blood taken from four healthy volunteers by venipuncture is also reported. The power law dependence of the attenuation coefficient is shown to vary across the measured frequency range. This is due to the varying frequency dependence of the different mechanisms responsible for the attenuation. The attenuation coefficient measured at high frequencies is found to be significantly higher than that predicted by historical power law parameters. A review of the attenuation mechanisms in blood along with previously reported experimental measurements is given. Values for the sound speed and density in the tested samples are also presented. Copyright © 2011 World Federation for Ultrasound in Medicine & Biology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Path integral Monte Carlo and the electron gas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brown, Ethan W.

Path integral Monte Carlo is a proven method for accurately simulating quantum mechanical systems at finite-temperature. By stochastically sampling Feynman's path integral representation of the quantum many-body density matrix, path integral Monte Carlo includes non-perturbative effects like thermal fluctuations and particle correlations in a natural way. Over the past 30 years, path integral Monte Carlo has been successfully employed to study the low density electron gas, high-pressure hydrogen, and superfluid helium. For systems where the role of Fermi statistics is important, however, traditional path integral Monte Carlo simulations have an exponentially decreasing efficiency with decreased temperature and increased system size. In this thesis, we work towards improving this efficiency, both through approximate and exact methods, as specifically applied to the homogeneous electron gas. We begin with a brief overview of the current state of atomic simulations at finite-temperature before we delve into a pedagogical review of the path integral Monte Carlo method. We then spend some time discussing the one major issue preventing exact simulation of Fermi systems, the sign problem. Afterwards, we introduce a way to circumvent the sign problem in PIMC simulations through a fixed-node constraint. We then apply this method to the homogeneous electron gas at a large swatch of densities and temperatures in order to map out the warm-dense matter regime. The electron gas can be a representative model for a host of real systems, from simple medals to stellar interiors. However, its most common use is as input into density functional theory. To this end, we aim to build an accurate representation of the electron gas from the ground state to the classical limit and examine its use in finite-temperature density functional formulations. The latter half of this thesis focuses on possible routes beyond the fixed-node approximation. As a first step, we utilize the variational principle inherent in the path integral Monte Carlo method to optimize the nodal surface. By using a ansatz resembling a free particle density matrix, we make a unique connection between a nodal effective mass and the traditional effective mass of many-body quantum theory. We then propose and test several alternate nodal ansatzes and apply them to single atomic systems. Finally, we propose a method to tackle the sign problem head on, by leveraging the relatively simple structure of permutation space. Using this method, we find we can perform exact simulations this of the electron gas and 3He that were previously impossible.

Mechanisms of Basin-Scale Nitrogen Load Reductions under Intensified Irrigated Agriculture

PubMed Central

Törnqvist, Rebecka; Jarsjö, Jerker; Thorslund, Josefin; Rao, P. Suresh C.; Basu, Nandita B.; Destouni, Georgia

2015-01-01

Irrigated agriculture can modify the cycling and transport of nitrogen (N), due to associated water diversions, water losses, and changes in transport flow-paths. We investigate dominant processes behind observed long-term changes in dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN) concentrations and loads of the extensive (465,000 km2) semi-arid Amu Darya River basin (ADRB) in Central Asia. We specifically considered a 40-year period (1960–2000) of large irrigation expansion, reduced river water flows, increased fertilizer application and net increase of N input into the soil-water system. Results showed that observed decreases in riverine DIN concentration near the Aral Sea outlet of ADRB primarily were due to increased recirculation of irrigation water, which extends the flow-path lengths and enhances N attenuation. The observed DIN concentrations matched a developed analytical relation between concentration attenuation and recirculation ratio, showing that a fourfold increase in basin-scale recirculation can increase DIN attenuation from 85 to 99%. Such effects have previously only been observed at small scales, in laboratory experiments and at individual agricultural plots. These results imply that increased recirculation can have contributed to observed increases in N attenuation in agriculturally dominated drainage basins in different parts of the world. Additionally, it can be important for basin scale attenuation of other pollutants, including phosphorous, metals and organic matter. A six-fold lower DIN export from ADRB during the period 1981–2000, compared to the period 1960–1980, was due to the combined result of drastic river flow reduction of almost 70%, and decreased DIN concentrations at the basin outlet. Several arid and semi-arid regions around the world are projected to undergo similar reductions in discharge as the ADRB due to climate change and agricultural intensification, and may therefore undergo comparable shifts in DIN export as shown here for the ADRB. For example, projected future increases of irrigation water withdrawals between 2005 and 2050 may decrease the DIN export from arid world regions by 40%. PMID:25789866

Attenuation and source properties at the Coso Geothermal area, California

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hough, S.E.; Lees, J.M.; Monastero, F.

1999-01-01

We use a multiple-empirical Green's function method to determine source properties of small (M -0.4 to 1.3) earthquakes and P- and S-wave attenuation at the Coso Geothermal Field, California. Source properties of a previously identified set of clustered events from the Coso geothermal region are first analyzed using an empirical Green's function (EGF) method. Stress-drop values of at least 0.5-1 MPa are inferred for all of the events; in many cases, the corner frequency is outside the usable bandwidth, and the stress drop can only be constrained as being higher than 3 MPa. P- and S-wave stress-drop estimates are identical to the resolution limits of the data. These results are indistinguishable from numerous EGF studies of M 2-5 earthquakes, suggesting a similarity in rupture processes that extends to events that are both tiny and induced, providing further support for Byerlee's Law. Whole-path Q estimates for P and S waves are determined using the multiple-empirical Green's function (MEGF) method of Hough (1997), whereby spectra from clusters of colocated events at a given station are inverted for a single attenuation parameter, ??, with source parameters constrained from EGF analysis. The ?? estimates, which we infer to be resolved to within 0.01 sec or better, exhibit almost as much scatter as a function of hypocentral distance as do values from previous single-spectrum studies for which much higher uncertainties in individual ?? estimates are expected. The variability in ?? estimates determined here therefore suggests real lateral variability in Q structure. Although the ray-path coverage is too sparse to yield a complete three-dimensional attenuation tomographic image, we invert the inferred ?? value for three-dimensional structure using a damped least-squares method, and the results do reveal significant lateral variability in Q structure. The inferred attenuation variability corresponds to the heat-flow variations within the geothermal region. A central low-Q region corresponds well with the central high-heat flow region; additional detailed structure is also suggested.

Iterative blip-summed path integral for quantum dynamics in strongly dissipative environments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Makri, Nancy

2017-04-01

The iterative decomposition of the blip-summed path integral [N. Makri, J. Chem. Phys. 141, 134117 (2014)] is described. The starting point is the expression of the reduced density matrix for a quantum system interacting with a harmonic dissipative bath in the form of a forward-backward path sum, where the effects of the bath enter through the Feynman-Vernon influence functional. The path sum is evaluated iteratively in time by propagating an array that stores blip configurations within the memory interval. Convergence with respect to the number of blips and the memory length yields numerically exact results which are free of statistical error. In situations of strongly dissipative, sluggish baths, the algorithm leads to a dramatic reduction of computational effort in comparison with iterative path integral methods that do not implement the blip decomposition. This gain in efficiency arises from (i) the rapid convergence of the blip series and (ii) circumventing the explicit enumeration of between-blip path segments, whose number grows exponentially with the memory length. Application to an asymmetric dissipative two-level system illustrates the rapid convergence of the algorithm even when the bath memory is extremely long.

Path-integral method for the source apportionment of photochemical pollutants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dunker, A. M.

2015-06-01

A new, path-integral method is presented for apportioning the concentrations of pollutants predicted by a photochemical model to emissions from different sources. A novel feature of the method is that it can apportion the difference in a species concentration between two simulations. For example, the anthropogenic ozone increment, which is the difference between a simulation with all emissions present and another simulation with only the background (e.g., biogenic) emissions included, can be allocated to the anthropogenic emission sources. The method is based on an existing, exact mathematical equation. This equation is applied to relate the concentration difference between simulations to line or path integrals of first-order sensitivity coefficients. The sensitivities describe the effects of changing the emissions and are accurately calculated by the decoupled direct method. The path represents a continuous variation of emissions between the two simulations, and each path can be viewed as a separate emission-control strategy. The method does not require auxiliary assumptions, e.g., whether ozone formation is limited by the availability of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or nitrogen oxides (NOx), and can be used for all the species predicted by the model. A simplified configuration of the Comprehensive Air Quality Model with Extensions (CAMx) is used to evaluate the accuracy of different numerical integration procedures and the dependence of the source contributions on the path. A Gauss-Legendre formula using three or four points along the path gives good accuracy for apportioning the anthropogenic increments of ozone, nitrogen dioxide, formaldehyde, and nitric acid. Source contributions to these increments were obtained for paths representing proportional control of all anthropogenic emissions together, control of NOx emissions before VOC emissions, and control of VOC emissions before NOx emissions. There are similarities in the source contributions from the three paths but also differences due to the different chemical regimes resulting from the emission-control strategies.

Path-integral method for the source apportionment of photochemical pollutants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dunker, A. M.

2014-12-01

A new, path-integral method is presented for apportioning the concentrations of pollutants predicted by a photochemical model to emissions from different sources. A novel feature of the method is that it can apportion the difference in a species concentration between two simulations. For example, the anthropogenic ozone increment, which is the difference between a simulation with all emissions present and another simulation with only the background (e.g., biogenic) emissions included, can be allocated to the anthropogenic emission sources. The method is based on an existing, exact mathematical equation. This equation is applied to relate the concentration difference between simulations to line or path integrals of first-order sensitivity coefficients. The sensitivities describe the effects of changing the emissions and are accurately calculated by the decoupled direct method. The path represents a continuous variation of emissions between the two simulations, and each path can be viewed as a separate emission-control strategy. The method does not require auxiliary assumptions, e.g., whether ozone formation is limited by the availability of volatile organic compounds (VOC's) or nitrogen oxides (NOx), and can be used for all the species predicted by the model. A simplified configuration of the Comprehensive Air Quality Model with Extensions is used to evaluate the accuracy of different numerical integration procedures and the dependence of the source contributions on the path. A Gauss-Legendre formula using 3 or 4 points along the path gives good accuracy for apportioning the anthropogenic increments of ozone, nitrogen dioxide, formaldehyde, and nitric acid. Source contributions to these increments were obtained for paths representing proportional control of all anthropogenic emissions together, control of NOx emissions before VOC emissions, and control of VOC emissions before NOx emissions. There are similarities in the source contributions from the three paths but also differences due to the different chemical regimes resulting from the emission-control strategies.

SIMULATION STUDY FOR GASEOUS FLUXES FROM AN AREA SOURCE USING COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY AND OPTICAL REMOTE SENSING

EPA Science Inventory

The paper presents a new approach to quantifying emissions from fugitive gaseous air pollution sources. Computed tomography (CT) and path-integrated optical remote sensing (PI-ORS) concentration data are combined in a new field beam geometry. Path-integrated concentrations are ...

Teaching Basic Quantum Mechanics in Secondary School Using Concepts of Feynman Path Integrals Method

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fanaro, Maria de los Angeles; Otero, Maria Rita; Arlego, Marcelo

2012-01-01

This paper discusses the teaching of basic quantum mechanics in high school. Rather than following the usual formalism, our approach is based on Feynman's path integral method. Our presentation makes use of simulation software and avoids sophisticated mathematical formalism. (Contains 3 figures.)

Piloting Systems Reset Path Integration Systems during Position Estimation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zhang, Lei; Mou, Weimin

2017-01-01

During locomotion, individuals can determine their positions with either idiothetic cues from movement (path integration systems) or visual landmarks (piloting systems). This project investigated how these 2 systems interact in determining humans' positions. In 2 experiments, participants studied the locations of 5 target objects and 1 single…

Geochemical evidence of groundwater flow paths and the fate and transport of constituents of concern in the alluvial aquifer at Fort Wingate Depot Activity, New Mexico, 2009

USGS Publications Warehouse

Robertson, Andrew J.; Henry, David W.; Langman, Jeffery B.

2013-01-01

As part of an environmental investigation at Fort Wingate Depot Activity, New Mexico, the U.S. Geological Survey, in cooperation with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, interpreted aqueous geochemical concentrations to better understand the groundwater flow paths and the fate and transport of constituents of concern in the alluvial aquifer underlying the study area. The fine-grained nature of the alluvial matrix creates a highly heterogeneous environment, which adds to the difficulty of characterizing the flow of groundwater and the fate of aqueous constituents of concern. The analysis of the groundwater geochemical data collected in October 2009 provides evidence that is used to identify four groundwater flow paths and their extent in the aquifer and indicates the dominant attenuation processes for the constituents of concern. The extent and interaction of groundwater flow paths were delineated by the major ion concentrations and their relations to each other. Four areas of groundwater recharge to the study area were identified based on groundwater elevations, hydrogeologic characteristics, and geochemical and isotopic evidence. One source of recharge enters the study area from the saturated alluvial deposits underlying the South Fork of the Puerco River to the north of the study area. A second source of recharge is shown to originate from a leaky cistern containing production water from the San Andres-Glorieta aquifer. The other two sources of recharge are shown to enter the study area from the south: one from an arroyo valley draining an area to the south and one from hill-front recharge that passes under the reported release of perchlorate and explosive constituents. The spatial extent and interaction of groundwater originating from these various sources along identified flow paths affect the persistence and attenuation of constituents of concern. It was determined that groundwater originating in the area of a former explosives’ wash-out operation and an accidental spill of perchlorate was spatially limited, and that dilution is the primary attenuation process for these constituents. The explosive concentrations of the nitramine 1,3,5-trinitroperhydro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX) and the oxidizer perchlorate both support that determination. Unlike RDX and perchlorate, there were no detectable concentrations of trinitrotoluene (TNT) in the aquifer. Based on the chemical nature of TNT and the redox conditions found in the aquifer, it is interpreted that TNT is lost to irreversible sorption and aerobic degradation. Nitrate was ubiquitous in the alluvial groundwater in October 2009. The nitrate concentrations in wells associated with the explosives’ groundwater flow path indicate attenuation primarily through dilution, similar to that of RDX. The origin of nitrate concentrations in the wells located in the Administration Area is uncertain but may have resulted from the leakage of aging clay sewage pipes that service most of the structures within that area or as a relic of a former hydrologic regime in which water from the washout operation migrated across a broader area. Sufficient data do not exist to definitively identify the location(s) of water discharge in this area, but transpiration from near the Administration Area is supported by the geochemical concentrations.

Path-integral invariants in abelian Chern-Simons theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guadagnini, E.; Thuillier, F.

2014-05-01

We consider the U(1) Chern-Simons gauge theory defined in a general closed oriented 3-manifold M; the functional integration is used to compute the normalized partition function and the expectation values of the link holonomies. The non-perturbative path-integral is defined in the space of the gauge orbits of the connections which belong to the various inequivalent U(1) principal bundles over M; the different sectors of configuration space are labelled by the elements of the first homology group of M and are characterized by appropriate background connections. The gauge orbits of flat connections, whose classification is also based on the homology group, control the non-perturbative contributions to the mean values. The functional integration is carried out in any 3-manifold M, and the corresponding path-integral invariants turn out to be strictly related with the abelian Reshetikhin-Turaev surgery invariants.

Simulation of photon attenuation coefficients for high effective shielding material Lead-Boron Polyethyene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, L.; Jia, M. C.; Gong, J. J.; Xia, W. M.

2017-12-01

The mass attenuation coefficient of various Lead-Boron Polyethylene samples which can be used as the photon shielding materials in marine reactor, have been simulated using the MCNP-5 code, and compared with the theoretical values at the photon energy range 0.001MeV—20MeV. A good agreement has been observed. The variations of mass attenuation coefficient, linear attenuation coefficient and mean free path with photon energy between 0.001MeV to 100MeV have been plotted. The result shows that all the coefficients strongly depends on the photon energy, material atomic composition and density. The dose transmission factors for source Cesium-137 and Cobalt-60 have been worked out and their variations with the thickness of various sample materials have also been plotted. The variations show that with the increase of materials thickness the dose transmission factors decrease continuously. The results of this paper can provide some reference for the use of the high effective shielding material Lead-Boron Polyethyene.

Rainfall measurement from the opportunistic use of an Earth-space link in the Ku band

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barthès, L.; Mallet, C.

2013-08-01

The present study deals with the development of a low-cost microwave device devoted to the measurement of average rain rates observed along Earth-satellite links, the latter being characterized by a tropospheric path length of a few kilometres. The ground-based power measurements, which are made using the Ku-band television transmissions from several different geostationary satellites, are based on the principle that the atmospheric attenuation produced by rain encountered along each transmission path can be used to determine the path-averaged rain rate. This kind of device could be very useful in hilly areas where radar data are not available or in urban areas where such devices could be directly placed in homes by using residential TV antenna. The major difficulty encountered with this technique is that of retrieving rainfall characteristics in the presence of many other causes of received signal fluctuation, produced by atmospheric scintillation, variations in atmospheric composition (water vapour concentration, cloud water content) or satellite transmission parameters (variations in emitted power, satellite pointing). In order to conduct a feasibility study with such a device, a measurement campaign was carried out over a period of five months close to Paris. The present paper proposes an algorithm based on an artificial neural network, used to identify dry and rainy periods and to model received signal variability resulting from effects not related to rain. When the altitude of the rain layer is taken into account, the rain attenuation can be inverted to obtain the path-averaged rain rate. The rainfall rates obtained from this process are compared with co-located rain gauges and radar measurements taken throughout the full duration of the campaign, and the most significant rainfall events are analysed.

Mantle Attenuation Estimated from Regional and Teleseismic P-waves of Deep Earthquakes and Surface Explosions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ichinose, G.; Woods, M.; Dwyer, J.

2014-03-01

We estimated the network-averaged mantle attenuation t*(total) of 0.5 s beneath the North Korea test site (NKTS) by use of P-wave spectra and normalized spectral stacks from the 25 May 2009 declared nuclear test (mb 4.5; IDC). This value was checked using P-waves from seven deep (580-600 km) earthquakes (4.8 < M w < 5.5) in the Jilin-Heilongjiang, China region that borders with Russia and North Korea. These earthquakes are 200-300 km from the NKTS, within 200 km of the Global Seismic Network seismic station in Mudanjiang, China (MDJ) and the International Monitoring System primary arrays at Ussuriysk, Russia (USRK) and Wonju, Republic of Korea (KSRS). With the deep earthquakes, we split the t*(total) ray path into two segments: a t*(u), that represents the attenuation of the up-going ray from the deep hypocenters to the local-regional receivers, and t*(d), that represents the attenuation along the down-going ray to teleseismic receivers. The sum of t*(u) and t*(d) should be equal to t*(total), because they both share coincident ray paths. We estimated the upper-mantle attenuation t*(u) of 0.1 s at stations MDJ, USRK, and KSRS from individual and stacks of normalized P-wave spectra. We then estimated the average lower-mantle attenuation t*(d) of 0.4 s using stacked teleseismic P-wave spectra. We finally estimated a network average t*(total) of 0.5 s from the stacked teleseismic P-wave spectra from the 2009 nuclear test, which confirms the equality with the sum of t*(u) and t*(d). We included constraints on seismic moment, depth, and radiation pattern by using results from a moment tensor analysis and corner frequencies from modeling of P-wave spectra recorded at local distances. We also avoided finite-faulting effects by excluding earthquakes with complex source time functions. We assumed ω2 source models for earthquakes and explosions. The mantle attenuation beneath the NKTS is clearly different when compared with the network-averaged t* of 0.75 s for the western US and is similar to values of approximately 0.5 s for the Semipalatinsk test site within the 0.5-2 Hz range.

A simple method for estimating frequency response corrections for eddy covariance systems

Treesearch

W. J. Massman

2000-01-01

A simple analytical formula is developed for estimating the frequency attenuation of eddy covariance fluxes due to sensor response, path-length averaging, sensor separation, signal processing, and flux averaging periods. Although it is an approximation based on flat terrain cospectra, this analytical formula should have broader applicability than just flat-terrain...

USING δ13C TO PREDICT THE RATE OF BIODEGRADATION OF MTBE

EPA Science Inventory

It is difficult to estimate the rate of natural biodegradation of MTBE at field scale. Dispersion in the aquifer or dilution in the well can give a false impression of attenuation along a flow path. The first product of MTBE biodegradation is TBA. Many gasoline spills contain TB...

Cross talk in the Lambert-Beer calculation for near-infrared wavelengths estimated by Monte Carlo simulations.

PubMed

Uludag, K; Kohl, M; Steinbrink, J; Obrig, H; Villringer, A

2002-01-01

Using the modified Lambert-Beer law to analyze attenuation changes measured noninvasively during functional activation of the brain might result in an insufficient separation of chromophore changes ("cross talk") due to the wavelength dependence of the partial path length of photons in the activated volume of the head. The partial path length was estimated by performing Monte Carlo simulations on layered head models. When assuming cortical activation (e.g., in the depth of 8-12 mm), we determine negligible cross talk when considering changes in oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin. But additionally taking changes in the redox state of cytochrome-c-oxidase into account, this analysis results in significant artifacts. An analysis developed for changes in mean time of flight--instead of changes in attenuation--reduces the cross talk for the layers of cortical activation. These results were validated for different oxygen saturations, wavelength combinations and scattering coefficients. For the analysis of changes in oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin only, low cross talk was also found when the activated volume was assumed to be a 4-mm-diam sphere.

Numerical and experimental study on the wave attenuation in bone--FDTD simulation of ultrasound propagation in cancellous bone.

PubMed

Nagatani, Yoshiki; Mizuno, Katsunori; Saeki, Takashi; Matsukawa, Mami; Sakaguchi, Takefumi; Hosoi, Hiroshi

2008-11-01

In cancellous bone, longitudinal waves often separate into fast and slow waves depending on the alignment of bone trabeculae in the propagation path. This interesting phenomenon becomes an effective tool for the diagnosis of osteoporosis because wave propagation behavior depends on the bone structure. Since the fast wave mainly propagates in trabeculae, this wave is considered to reflect the structure of trabeculae. For a new diagnosis method using the information of this fast wave, therefore, it is necessary to understand the generation mechanism and propagation behavior precisely. In this study, the generation process of fast wave was examined by numerical simulations using elastic finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method and experimental measurements. As simulation models, three-dimensional X-ray computer tomography (CT) data of actual bone samples were used. Simulation and experimental results showed that the attenuation of fast wave was always higher in the early state of propagation, and they gradually decreased as the wave propagated in bone. This phenomenon is supposed to come from the complicated propagating paths of fast waves in cancellous bone.

A new navigational mechanism mediated by ant ocelli.

PubMed

Schwarz, Sebastian; Wystrach, Antoine; Cheng, Ken

2011-12-23

Many animals rely on path integration for navigation and desert ants are the champions. On leaving the nest, ants continuously integrate their distance and direction of travel so that they always know their current distance and direction from the nest and can take a direct path to home. Distance information originates from a step-counter and directional information is based on a celestial compass. So far, it has been assumed that the directional information obtained from ocelli contribute to a single global path integrator, together with directional information from the dorsal rim area (DRA) of the compound eyes and distance information from the step-counter. Here, we show that ocelli mediate a distinct compass from that mediated by the compound eyes. After travelling a two-leg outbound route, untreated foragers headed towards the nest direction, showing that both legs of the route had been integrated. In contrast, foragers with covered compound eyes but uncovered ocelli steered in the direction opposite to the last leg of the outbound route. Our findings suggest that, unlike the DRA, ocelli cannot by themselves mediate path integration. Instead, ocelli mediate a distinct directional system, which buffers the most recent leg of a journey.

Visual influence on path integration in darkness indicates a multimodal representation of large-scale space

PubMed Central

Tcheang, Lili; Bülthoff, Heinrich H.; Burgess, Neil

2011-01-01

Our ability to return to the start of a route recently performed in darkness is thought to reflect path integration of motion-related information. Here we provide evidence that motion-related interoceptive representations (proprioceptive, vestibular, and motor efference copy) combine with visual representations to form a single multimodal representation guiding navigation. We used immersive virtual reality to decouple visual input from motion-related interoception by manipulating the rotation or translation gain of the visual projection. First, participants walked an outbound path with both visual and interoceptive input, and returned to the start in darkness, demonstrating the influences of both visual and interoceptive information in a virtual reality environment. Next, participants adapted to visual rotation gains in the virtual environment, and then performed the path integration task entirely in darkness. Our findings were accurately predicted by a quantitative model in which visual and interoceptive inputs combine into a single multimodal representation guiding navigation, and are incompatible with a model of separate visual and interoceptive influences on action (in which path integration in darkness must rely solely on interoceptive representations). Overall, our findings suggest that a combined multimodal representation guides large-scale navigation, consistent with a role for visual imagery or a cognitive map. PMID:21199934

Electron Attenuation Measurement using Cosmic Ray Muons at the MicroBooNE LArTPC

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

Meddage, Varuna

2017-10-01

The MicroBooNE experiment at Fermilab uses liquid argon time projection chamber (LArTPC) technology to study neutrino interactions in argon. A fundamental requirement for LArTPCs is to achieve and maintain a low level of electronegative contaminants in the liquid to minimize the capture of drifting ionization electrons. The attenuation time for the drifting electrons should be long compared to the maximum drift time, so that the signals from particle tracks that generate ionization electrons with long drift paths can be detected efficiently. In this talk we present MicroBooNE measurement of electron attenuation using cosmic ray muons. The result yields a minimummore » electron 1/e lifetime of 18 ms under typical operating conditions, which is long compared to the maximum drift time of 2.3 ms.« less

Material identification based upon energy-dependent attenuation of neutrons

DOEpatents

Marleau, Peter

2015-10-06

Various technologies pertaining to identifying a material in a sample and imaging the sample are described herein. The material is identified by computing energy-dependent attenuation of neutrons that is caused by presence of the sample in travel paths of the neutrons. A mono-energetic neutron generator emits the neutron, which is downscattered in energy by a first detector unit. The neutron exits the first detector unit and is detected by a second detector unit subsequent to passing through the sample. Energy-dependent attenuation of neutrons passing through the sample is computed based upon a computed energy of the neutron, wherein such energy can be computed based upon 1) known positions of the neutron generator, the first detector unit, and the second detector unit; or 2) computed time of flight of neutrons between the first detector unit and the second detector unit.

Utilization of barite/cement composites for gamma rays attenuation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sakr, Khaled; Ramadan, Wageeh; Sayed, Magda; El-Zakla, Tarek; El-Desouqy, Mohamed; El-Faramawy, Nabil

2018-04-01

The present work is directed to investigate the contribution of adding barite aggregates to cement as a shielding material for radioactive wastes disposal facilities. The percentages of barite from 5% up to 20% mixed with cement with different grain sizes were examined. Mechanical and physical properties such as compressive strength, wet and dry densities, water absorption, and porosity have been investigated. The thermogravimetric analysis and X-ray diffraction were used to examine the thermal stability and the characterizations of studied samples, respectively. The linear attenuation coefficient, mean free path, half value layer, and transmission fraction were evaluated. All the nuclear shielding parameters revealed the uppermost values for cement mixed with 5% barite of size range 250-600 µm. The attenuation coefficient of the investigated samples displayed an increase by more than 125% than that of neat cement.

Tree attenuation at 20 GHz: Foliage effects

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vogel, Wolfhard J.; Goldhirsh, Julius

1993-01-01

Static tree attenuation measurements at 20 GHz (K-Band) on a 30 deg slant path through a mature Pecan tree with and without leaves showed median fades exceeding approximately 23 dB and 7 dB, respectively. The corresponding 1% probability fades were 43 dB and 25 dB. Previous 1.6 GHz (L-Band) measurements for the bare tree case showed fades larger than those at K-Band by 3.4 dB for the median and smaller by approximately 7 dB at the 1% probability. While the presence of foliage had only a small effect on fading at L-Band (approximately 1 dB additional for the median to 1% probability range), the attenuation increase was significant at K-Band, where it increased by about 17 dB over the same probability range.

Tree attenuation at 20 GHz: Foliage effects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vogel, Wolfhard J.; Goldhirsh, Julius

1993-08-01

Static tree attenuation measurements at 20 GHz (K-Band) on a 30 deg slant path through a mature Pecan tree with and without leaves showed median fades exceeding approximately 23 dB and 7 dB, respectively. The corresponding 1% probability fades were 43 dB and 25 dB. Previous 1.6 GHz (L-Band) measurements for the bare tree case showed fades larger than those at K-Band by 3.4 dB for the median and smaller by approximately 7 dB at the 1% probability. While the presence of foliage had only a small effect on fading at L-Band (approximately 1 dB additional for the median to 1% probability range), the attenuation increase was significant at K-Band, where it increased by about 17 dB over the same probability range.

On the Path Integral in Non-Commutative (nc) Qft

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dehne, Christoph

2008-09-01

As is generally known, different quantization schemes applied to field theory on NC spacetime lead to Feynman rules with different physical properties, if time does not commute with space. In particular, the Feynman rules that are derived from the path integral corresponding to the T*-product (the so-called naïve Feynman rules) violate the causal time ordering property. Within the Hamiltonian approach to quantum field theory, we show that we can (formally) modify the time ordering encoded in the above path integral. The resulting Feynman rules are identical to those obtained in the canonical approach via the Gell-Mann-Low formula (with T-ordering). They preserve thus unitarity and causal time ordering.

Tunable quantum interference in a 3D integrated circuit.

PubMed

Chaboyer, Zachary; Meany, Thomas; Helt, L G; Withford, Michael J; Steel, M J

2015-04-27

Integrated photonics promises solutions to questions of stability, complexity, and size in quantum optics. Advances in tunable and non-planar integrated platforms, such as laser-inscribed photonics, continue to bring the realisation of quantum advantages in computation and metrology ever closer, perhaps most easily seen in multi-path interferometry. Here we demonstrate control of two-photon interference in a chip-scale 3D multi-path interferometer, showing a reduced periodicity and enhanced visibility compared to single photon measurements. Observed non-classical visibilities are widely tunable, and explained well by theoretical predictions based on classical measurements. With these predictions we extract Fisher information approaching a theoretical maximum. Our results open a path to quantum enhanced phase measurements.

Path integral measure, constraints and ghosts for massive gravitons with a cosmological constant

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

Metaxas, Dimitrios

2009-12-15

For massive gravity in a de Sitter background one encounters problems of stability when the curvature is larger than the graviton mass. I analyze this situation from the path integral point of view and show that it is related to the conformal factor problem of Euclidean quantum (massless) gravity. When a constraint for massive gravity is incorporated and the proper treatment of the path integral measure is taken into account one finds that, for particular choices of the DeWitt metric on the space of metrics (in fact, the same choices as in the massless case), one obtains the opposite boundmore » on the graviton mass.« less

Note: A portable Raman analyzer for microfluidic chips based on a dichroic beam splitter for integration of imaging and signal collection light paths

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

Geng, Yijia; Xu, Shuping; Xu, Weiqing, E-mail: xuwq@jlu.edu.cn

An integrated and portable Raman analyzer featuring an inverted probe fixed on a motor-driving adjustable optical module was designed for the combination of a microfluidic system. It possesses a micro-imaging function. The inverted configuration is advantageous to locate and focus microfluidic channels. Different from commercial micro-imaging Raman spectrometers using manual switchable light path, this analyzer adopts a dichroic beam splitter for both imaging and signal collection light paths, which avoids movable parts and improves the integration and stability of optics. Combined with surface-enhanced Raman scattering technique, this portable Raman micro-analyzer is promising as a powerful tool for microfluidic analytics.

Blip decomposition of the path integral: exponential acceleration of real-time calculations on quantum dissipative systems.

PubMed

Makri, Nancy

2014-10-07

The real-time path integral representation of the reduced density matrix for a discrete system in contact with a dissipative medium is rewritten in terms of the number of blips, i.e., elementary time intervals over which the forward and backward paths are not identical. For a given set of blips, it is shown that the path sum with respect to the coordinates of all remaining time points is isomorphic to that for the wavefunction of a system subject to an external driving term and thus can be summed by an inexpensive iterative procedure. This exact decomposition reduces the number of terms by a factor that increases exponentially with propagation time. Further, under conditions (moderately high temperature and/or dissipation strength) that lead primarily to incoherent dynamics, the "fully incoherent limit" zero-blip term of the series provides a reasonable approximation to the dynamics, and the blip series converges rapidly to the exact result. Retention of only the blips required for satisfactory convergence leads to speedup of full-memory path integral calculations by many orders of magnitude.

A Note on the Stochastic Nature of Feynman Quantum Paths

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Botelho, Luiz C. L.

2016-11-01

We propose a Fresnel stochastic white noise framework to analyze the stochastic nature of the Feynman paths entering on the Feynman Path Integral expression for the Feynman Propagator of a particle quantum mechanically moving under a time-independent potential.

PLANE-INTEGRATED OPEN-PATH FOURIER TRANSFORM INFRARED SPECTROMETRY METHODOLOGY FOR ANAEROBIC SWINE LAGOON EMISSION MEASUREMENTS

EPA Science Inventory

Emissions of ammonia and methane from an anaerobic lagoon at a swine animal feeding operation were evaluated five times over a period of two years. The plane-integrated (PI) open-path Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (OP-FTIR) methodology was used to transect the plume at ...

Path integral Monte Carlo ground state approach: formalism, implementation, and applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yan, Yangqian; Blume, D.

2017-11-01

Monte Carlo techniques have played an important role in understanding strongly correlated systems across many areas of physics, covering a wide range of energy and length scales. Among the many Monte Carlo methods applicable to quantum mechanical systems, the path integral Monte Carlo approach with its variants has been employed widely. Since semi-classical or classical approaches will not be discussed in this review, path integral based approaches can for our purposes be divided into two categories: approaches applicable to quantum mechanical systems at zero temperature and approaches applicable to quantum mechanical systems at finite temperature. While these two approaches are related to each other, the underlying formulation and aspects of the algorithm differ. This paper reviews the path integral Monte Carlo ground state (PIGS) approach, which solves the time-independent Schrödinger equation. Specifically, the PIGS approach allows for the determination of expectation values with respect to eigen states of the few- or many-body Schrödinger equation provided the system Hamiltonian is known. The theoretical framework behind the PIGS algorithm, implementation details, and sample applications for fermionic systems are presented.

Surface topography of 1€ coin measured by stereo-PIXE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gholami-Hatam, E.; Lamehi-Rachti, M.; Vavpetič, P.; Grlj, N.; Pelicon, P.

2013-07-01

We demonstrate the stereo-PIXE method by measurement of surface topography of the relief details on 1€ coin. Two X-ray elemental maps were simultaneously recorded by two X-ray detectors positioned at the left and the right side of the proton microbeam. The asymmetry of the yields in the pixels of the two X-ray maps occurs due to different photon attenuation on the exit travel path of the characteristic X-rays from the point of emission through the sample into the X-ray detectors. In order to calibrate the inclination angle with respect to the X-ray asymmetry, a flat inclined surface model was at first applied for the sample in which the matrix composition and the depth elemental concentration profile is known. After that, the yield asymmetry in each image pixel was transferred into corresponding local inclination angle using calculated dependence of the asymmetry on the surface inclination. Finally, the quantitative topography profile was revealed by integrating the local inclination angle over the lateral displacement of the probing beam.

Tackling higher derivative ghosts with the Euclidean path integral

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

Fontanini, Michele; Department of Physics, Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York 13244; Trodden, Mark

2011-05-15

An alternative to the effective field theory approach to treat ghosts in higher derivative theories is to attempt to integrate them out via the Euclidean path integral formalism. It has been suggested that this method could provide a consistent framework within which we might tolerate the ghost degrees of freedom that plague, among other theories, the higher derivative gravity models that have been proposed to explain cosmic acceleration. We consider the extension of this idea to treating a class of terms with order six derivatives, and find that for a general term the Euclidean path integral approach works in themore » most trivial background, Minkowski. Moreover we see that even in de Sitter background, despite some difficulties, it is possible to define a probability distribution for tensorial perturbations of the metric.« less

Initial results from the VPI&SU SIRIO diversity experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Towner, G. C.; Marshall, R. E.; Stutzman, W. L.; Bostian, C. W.; Pratt, T.; Manus, E. A.; Wiley, P. H.

1982-01-01

The first year of observations of the precipitation effects on the 11.6-GHz beacon signal from the SIRIO satellite are reported. This experiment is unique in that it uses dual-polarized receivers in a diversity configuration and a low path elevation angle. Rain rate, attenuation, and isolation statistics are presented for both sites. In addition, attenuation diversity gain is plotted and compared to current models. Isolation diversity gain is also discussed. It was found that little improvement in dual-channel isolation is obtained with site diversity at this low elevation angle. The influence of ice clouds was noted in the months of October and November.

Rain attenuation studies from radiometric and rain DSD measurements at two tropical locations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Halder, Tuhina; Adhikari, Arpita; Maitra, Animesh

2018-05-01

Efficient use of satellite communication in tropical regions demands proper characterization of rain attenuation, particularly, in view of the available popular propagation models which are mostly based on temperate climatic data. Thus rain attenuations at frequencies 22.234, 23.834 and 31.4/30 GHz over two tropical locations Kolkata (22.57°N, 88.36°E, India) and Belem (1.45°S, 48.49° W, Brazil), have been estimated for the year 2010 and 2011, respectively. The estimation has been done utilizing ground-based disdrometer observations and radiometric measurements over Earth-space path. The results show that rain attenuation estimations from radiometric data are reliable only at low rain rates (<30 mm/h). However, the rain attenuation estimations from disdrometer measurements show good agreement with the ITU-R model, even at high rain rates (upto100 mm/h). Despite having significant variability in terms of drop size distribution (DSD), the attenuation values calculated from DSD data (disdrometer measurements) at Kolkata and Belem differ a little for the rain rates below 30 mm/h. However, the attenuation values, obtained from radiometric measurements at the two places, show significant deviations ranging from 0.54 dB to 3.2 dB up to a rain rate of 30 mm/h, on account of different rain heights, mean atmospheric temperatures and climatology of the two locations.

Path integral pricing of Wasabi option in the Black-Scholes model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cassagnes, Aurelien; Chen, Yu; Ohashi, Hirotada

2014-11-01

In this paper, using path integral techniques, we derive a formula for a propagator arising in the study of occupation time derivatives. Using this result we derive a fair price for the case of the cumulative Parisian option. After confirming the validity of the derived result using Monte Carlo simulation, a new type of heavily path dependent derivative product is investigated. We derive an approximation for our so-called Wasabi option fair price and check the accuracy of our result with a Monte Carlo simulation.

IntPath--an integrated pathway gene relationship database for model organisms and important pathogens.

PubMed

Zhou, Hufeng; Jin, Jingjing; Zhang, Haojun; Yi, Bo; Wozniak, Michal; Wong, Limsoon

2012-01-01

Pathway data are important for understanding the relationship between genes, proteins and many other molecules in living organisms. Pathway gene relationships are crucial information for guidance, prediction, reference and assessment in biochemistry, computational biology, and medicine. Many well-established databases--e.g., KEGG, WikiPathways, and BioCyc--are dedicated to collecting pathway data for public access. However, the effectiveness of these databases is hindered by issues such as incompatible data formats, inconsistent molecular representations, inconsistent molecular relationship representations, inconsistent referrals to pathway names, and incomprehensive data from different databases. In this paper, we overcome these issues through extraction, normalization and integration of pathway data from several major public databases (KEGG, WikiPathways, BioCyc, etc). We build a database that not only hosts our integrated pathway gene relationship data for public access but also maintains the necessary updates in the long run. This public repository is named IntPath (Integrated Pathway gene relationship database for model organisms and important pathogens). Four organisms--S. cerevisiae, M. tuberculosis H37Rv, H. Sapiens and M. musculus--are included in this version (V2.0) of IntPath. IntPath uses the "full unification" approach to ensure no deletion and no introduced noise in this process. Therefore, IntPath contains much richer pathway-gene and pathway-gene pair relationships and much larger number of non-redundant genes and gene pairs than any of the single-source databases. The gene relationships of each gene (measured by average node degree) per pathway are significantly richer. The gene relationships in each pathway (measured by average number of gene pairs per pathway) are also considerably richer in the integrated pathways. Moderate manual curation are involved to get rid of errors and noises from source data (e.g., the gene ID errors in WikiPathways and relationship errors in KEGG). We turn complicated and incompatible xml data formats and inconsistent gene and gene relationship representations from different source databases into normalized and unified pathway-gene and pathway-gene pair relationships neatly recorded in simple tab-delimited text format and MySQL tables, which facilitates convenient automatic computation and large-scale referencing in many related studies. IntPath data can be downloaded in text format or MySQL dump. IntPath data can also be retrieved and analyzed conveniently through web service by local programs or through web interface by mouse clicks. Several useful analysis tools are also provided in IntPath. We have overcome in IntPath the issues of compatibility, consistency, and comprehensiveness that often hamper effective use of pathway databases. We have included four organisms in the current release of IntPath. Our methodology and programs described in this work can be easily applied to other organisms; and we will include more model organisms and important pathogens in future releases of IntPath. IntPath maintains regular updates and is freely available at http://compbio.ddns.comp.nus.edu.sg:8080/IntPath.

Time-Domain Pure-state Polarization Analysis of Surface Waves Traversing California

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

Zhang, J; Walter, W R; Lay, T

A time-domain pure-state polarization analysis method is used to characterize surface waves traversing California parallel to the plate boundary. The method is applied to data recorded at four broadband stations in California from twenty-six large, shallow earthquakes which occurred since 1988, yielding polarization parameters such as the ellipticity, Euler angles, instantaneous periods, and wave incident azimuths. The earthquakes are located along the circum-Pacific margin and the ray paths cluster into two groups, with great-circle paths connecting stations MHC and PAS or CMB and GSC. The first path (MHC-PAS) is in the vicinity of the San Andreas Fault System (SAFS), andmore » the second (CMB-GSC) traverses the Sierra Nevada Batholith parallel to and east of the SAFS. Both Rayleigh and Love wave data show refractions due to lateral velocity heterogeneities under the path, indicating that accurate phase velocity and attenuation analysis requires array measurements. The Rayleigh waves are strongly affected by low velocity anomalies beneath Central California, with ray paths bending eastward as waves travel toward the south, while Love waves are less affected, providing observables to constrain the depth extent of the anomalies. Strong lateral gradients in the lithospheric structure between the continent and the ocean are the likely cause of the path deflections.« less

Ba2+- and bupivacaine-sensitive background K+ conductances mediate rapid EPSP attenuation in oligodendrocyte precursor cells

PubMed Central

Chan, Chu-Fang; Kuo, Tzu-Wei; Weng, Ju-Yun; Lin, Yen-Chu; Chen, Ting-Yu; Cheng, Jen-Kun; Lien, Cheng-Chang

2013-01-01

Glutamatergic transmission onto oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) may regulate OPC proliferation, migration and differentiation. Dendritic integration of excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) is critical for neuronal functions, and mechanisms regulating dendritic propagation and summation of EPSPs are well understood. However, little is known about EPSP attenuation and integration in OPCs. We developed realistic OPC models for synaptic integration, based on passive membrane responses of OPCs obtained by simultaneous dual whole-cell patch-pipette recordings. Compared with neurons, OPCs have a very low value of membrane resistivity, which is largely mediated by Ba2+- and bupivacaine-sensitive background K+ conductances. The very low membrane resistivity not only leads to rapid EPSP attenuation along OPC processes but also sharpens EPSPs and narrows the temporal window for EPSP summation. Thus, background K+ conductances regulate synaptic responses and integration in OPCs, thereby affecting activity-dependent neuronal control of OPC development and function. PMID:23940377

FIELD STUDY OF THE IMPACT OF A GASOHOL SPILL ON NATURAL ATTENUATION OF PRE-EXISTING BTEX/MTBE CONTAMINATION (VANDENBERG AFB, CALIFORNIA)

EPA Science Inventory

(1) Measure the seepage velocity of the ground water using travel time of tracers to monitoring wells.
(2) Measure the concentration of benzene, the other BTEX compounds, and ethanol in monitoring wells along the flow path of the tracer plume.
(3) Calculate and compare ...

Near‐surface void detection using a seismic landstreamer and horizontal velocity and attenuation tomography

USGS Publications Warehouse

Buckley, Sean F.; Lane, John W.

2012-01-01

The detection and characterization of subsurface voids plays an important role in the study of karst formations and clandestine tunnels. Horizontal velocity and attenuation tomography (HVAT) using offset‐fan shooting and a towed seismic land streamer is a simple, rapid, minimally invasive method that shows promise for detecting near‐surface voids and providing information on the orientation of linear voids. HVAT surveys were conducted over a known subsurface steam tunnel on the University of Connecticut Depot Campus, Storrs, Connecticut. First‐arrival travel‐time and amplitude data were used to produce two‐dimensional (2D) horizontal (map view) velocity and attenuation tomograms. In addition, attenuation tomograms were produced based on normalized total trace energy (TTE). Both the velocity and TTE attenuation tomograms depict an anomaly consistent with the location and orientation of the known tunnel; the TTE method, however, requires significantly less processing time, and therefore may provide a path forward to semi‐automated, near real‐time detection of near‐surface voids. Further study is needed to assess the utility of the HVAT method to detect deeper voids and the effects of a more complex geology on HVAT results.

Green function of the double-fractional Fokker-Planck equation: path integral and stochastic differential equations.

PubMed

Kleinert, H; Zatloukal, V

2013-11-01

The statistics of rare events, the so-called black-swan events, is governed by non-Gaussian distributions with heavy power-like tails. We calculate the Green functions of the associated Fokker-Planck equations and solve the related stochastic differential equations. We also discuss the subject in the framework of path integration.

Low-coherence interferometric sensor system utilizing an integrated optics configuration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Plissi, M. V.; Rogers, A. J.; Brassington, D. J.; Wilson, M. G. F.

1995-08-01

The implementation of a twin Mach-Zehnder reference interferometer in an integrated optics substrate is described. From measurements of the fringe visibilities, an identification of the fringe order is attempted as a way to provide an absolute sensor for any parameter capable of modifying the difference in path length between two interfering optical paths.

Explaining Technology Integration in K-12 Classrooms: A Multilevel Path Analysis Model

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Liu, Feng; Ritzhaupt, Albert D.; Dawson, Kara; Barron, Ann E.

2017-01-01

The purpose of this research was to design and test a model of classroom technology integration in the context of K-12 schools. The proposed multilevel path analysis model includes teacher, contextual, and school related variables on a teacher's use of technology and confidence and comfort using technology as mediators of classroom technology…

Path integral learning of multidimensional movement trajectories

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

André, João; Santos, Cristina; Costa, Lino

2013-10-01

This paper explores the use of Path Integral Methods, particularly several variants of the recent Path Integral Policy Improvement (PI2) algorithm in multidimensional movement parametrized policy learning. We rely on Dynamic Movement Primitives (DMPs) to codify discrete and rhythmic trajectories, and apply the PI2-CMA and PIBB methods in the learning of optimal policy parameters, according to different cost functions that inherently encode movement objectives. Additionally we merge both of these variants and propose the PIBB-CMA algorithm, comparing all of them with the vanilla version of PI2. From the obtained results we conclude that PIBB-CMA surpasses all other methods in terms of convergence speed and iterative final cost, which leads to an increased interest in its application to more complex robotic problems.

Path-integral and Ornstein-Zernike study of quantum fluid structures on the crystallization line

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

Sesé, Luis M., E-mail: msese@ccia.uned.es

2016-03-07

Liquid neon, liquid para-hydrogen, and the quantum hard-sphere fluid are studied with path integral Monte Carlo simulations and the Ornstein-Zernike pair equation on their respective crystallization lines. The results cover the whole sets of structures in the r-space and the k-space and, for completeness, the internal energies, pressures and isothermal compressibilities. Comparison with experiment is made wherever possible, and the possibilities of establishing k-space criteria for quantum crystallization based on the path-integral centroids are discussed. In this regard, the results show that the centroid structure factor contains two significant parameters related to its main peak features (amplitude and shape) thatmore » can be useful to characterize freezing.« less

Spin Path Integrals and Generations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brannen, Carl

2010-11-01

The spin of a free electron is stable but its position is not. Recent quantum information research by G. Svetlichny, J. Tolar, and G. Chadzitaskos have shown that the Feynman position path integral can be mathematically defined as a product of incompatible states; that is, as a product of mutually unbiased bases (MUBs). Since the more common use of MUBs is in finite dimensional Hilbert spaces, this raises the question “what happens when spin path integrals are computed over products of MUBs?” Such an assumption makes spin no longer stable. We show that the usual spin-1/2 is obtained in the long-time limit in three orthogonal solutions that we associate with the three elementary particle generations. We give applications to the masses of the elementary leptons.

Data assimilation using a GPU accelerated path integral Monte Carlo approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Quinn, John C.; Abarbanel, Henry D. I.

2011-09-01

The answers to data assimilation questions can be expressed as path integrals over all possible state and parameter histories. We show how these path integrals can be evaluated numerically using a Markov Chain Monte Carlo method designed to run in parallel on a graphics processing unit (GPU). We demonstrate the application of the method to an example with a transmembrane voltage time series of a simulated neuron as an input, and using a Hodgkin-Huxley neuron model. By taking advantage of GPU computing, we gain a parallel speedup factor of up to about 300, compared to an equivalent serial computation on a CPU, with performance increasing as the length of the observation time used for data assimilation increases.

The role of spatial memory and frames of reference in the precision of angular path integration.

PubMed

Arthur, Joeanna C; Philbeck, John W; Kleene, Nicholas J; Chichka, David

2012-09-01

Angular path integration refers to the ability to maintain an estimate of self-location after a rotational displacement by integrating internally-generated (idiothetic) self-motion signals over time. Previous work has found that non-sensory inputs, namely spatial memory, can play a powerful role in angular path integration (Arthur et al., 2007, 2009). Here we investigated the conditions under which spatial memory facilitates angular path integration. We hypothesized that the benefit of spatial memory is particularly likely in spatial updating tasks in which one's self-location estimate is referenced to external space. To test this idea, we administered passive, non-visual body rotations (ranging 40°-140°) about the yaw axis and asked participants to use verbal reports or open-loop manual pointing to indicate the magnitude of the rotation. Prior to some trials, previews of the surrounding environment were given. We found that when participants adopted an egocentric frame of reference, the previously-observed benefit of previews on within-subject response precision was not manifested, regardless of whether remembered spatial frameworks were derived from vision or spatial language. We conclude that the powerful effect of spatial memory is dependent on one's frame of reference during self-motion updating. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Accelerated path integral methods for atomistic simulations at ultra-low temperatures

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

Uhl, Felix, E-mail: felix.uhl@rub.de; Marx, Dominik; Ceriotti, Michele

2016-08-07

Path integral methods provide a rigorous and systematically convergent framework to include the quantum mechanical nature of atomic nuclei in the evaluation of the equilibrium properties of molecules, liquids, or solids at finite temperature. Such nuclear quantum effects are often significant for light nuclei already at room temperature, but become crucial at cryogenic temperatures such as those provided by superfluid helium as a solvent. Unfortunately, the cost of converged path integral simulations increases significantly upon lowering the temperature so that the computational burden of simulating matter at the typical superfluid helium temperatures becomes prohibitive. Here we investigate how accelerated pathmore » integral techniques based on colored noise generalized Langevin equations, in particular the so-called path integral generalized Langevin equation thermostat (PIGLET) variant, perform in this extreme quantum regime using as an example the quasi-rigid methane molecule and its highly fluxional protonated cousin, CH{sub 5}{sup +}. We show that the PIGLET technique gives a speedup of two orders of magnitude in the evaluation of structural observables and quantum kinetic energy at ultralow temperatures. Moreover, we computed the spatial spread of the quantum nuclei in CH{sub 4} to illustrate the limits of using such colored noise thermostats close to the many body quantum ground state.« less

Path integration guided with a quality map for shape reconstruction in the fringe reflection technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jing, Xiaoli; Cheng, Haobo; Wen, Yongfu

2018-04-01

A new local integration algorithm called quality map path integration (QMPI) is reported for shape reconstruction in the fringe reflection technique. A quality map is proposed to evaluate the quality of gradient data locally, and functions as a guideline for the integrated path. The presented method can be employed in wavefront estimation from its slopes over the general shaped surface with slope noise equivalent to that in practical measurements. Moreover, QMPI is much better at handling the slope data with local noise, which may be caused by the irregular shapes of the surface under test. The performance of QMPI is discussed by simulations and experiment. It is shown that QMPI not only improves the accuracy of local integration, but can also be easily implemented with no iteration compared to Southwell zonal reconstruction (SZR). From an engineering point-of-view, the proposed method may also provide an efficient and stable approach for different shapes with high-precise demand.

A taxonomy of integral reaction path analysis

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

Grcar, Joseph F.; Day, Marcus S.; Bell, John B.

2004-12-23

W. C. Gardiner observed that achieving understanding through combustion modeling is limited by the ability to recognize the implications of what has been computed and to draw conclusions about the elementary steps underlying the reaction mechanism. This difficulty can be overcome in part by making better use of reaction path analysis in the context of multidimensional flame simulations. Following a survey of current practice, an integral reaction flux is formulated in terms of conserved scalars that can be calculated in a fully automated way. Conditional analyses are then introduced, and a taxonomy for bidirectional path analysis is explored. Many examplesmore » illustrate the resulting path analysis and uncover some new results about nonpremixed methane-air laminar jets.« less

Functional integration of vertical flight path and speed control using energy principles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lambregts, A. A.

1984-01-01

A generalized automatic flight control system was developed which integrates all longitudinal flight path and speed control functions previously provided by a pitch autopilot and autothrottle. In this design, a net thrust command is computed based on total energy demand arising from both flight path and speed targets. The elevator command is computed based on the energy distribution error between flight path and speed. The engine control is configured to produce the commanded net thrust. The design incorporates control strategies and hierarchy to deal systematically and effectively with all aircraft operational requirements, control nonlinearities, and performance limits. Consistent decoupled maneuver control is achieved for all modes and flight conditions without outer loop gain schedules, control law submodes, or control function duplication.

Cortical Hubs Form a Module for Multisensory Integration on Top of the Hierarchy of Cortical Networks

PubMed Central

Zamora-López, Gorka; Zhou, Changsong; Kurths, Jürgen

2009-01-01

Sensory stimuli entering the nervous system follow particular paths of processing, typically separated (segregated) from the paths of other modal information. However, sensory perception, awareness and cognition emerge from the combination of information (integration). The corticocortical networks of cats and macaque monkeys display three prominent characteristics: (i) modular organisation (facilitating the segregation), (ii) abundant alternative processing paths and (iii) the presence of highly connected hubs. Here, we study in detail the organisation and potential function of the cortical hubs by graph analysis and information theoretical methods. We find that the cortical hubs form a spatially delocalised, but topologically central module with the capacity to integrate multisensory information in a collaborative manner. With this, we resolve the underlying anatomical substrate that supports the simultaneous capacity of the cortex to segregate and to integrate multisensory information. PMID:20428515

MULTI-POLLUTANT CONCENTRATION MEASUREMENTS AROUND A CONCENTRATED SWINE PRODUCTION FACILITY USING OPEN-PATH FTIR SPECTROMETRY

EPA Science Inventory

Open-path Fourier transform infrared (OP/FTIR) spectrometry was used to measure the concentrations of ammonia, methane, and other atmospheric gasses around an integrated industrial swine production facility in eastern North Carolina. Several single-path measurements were made ove...

Mass attenuation coefficients of X-rays in different barite concrete used in radiation protection as shielding against ionizing radiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Almeida Junior, T. Airton; Nogueira, M. S.; Vivolo, V.; Potiens, M. P. A.; Campos, L. L.

2017-11-01

The probability of a photon interacting in a particular way with a given material, per unit path length, is usually called the linear attenuation coefficient (μ), and it is of great importance in radiation shielding. Plates of barite concrete with different thickness were fabricated in order to determining their mass attenuation coefficients at different energies. The plates were irradiated with ISO X-ray beams (N60, N80, N110 and N150), generated by Pantak HF320 X-ray equipment, at the IPEN laboratory. The mass attenuation coefficients of barite concrete have been measured using X-ray attenuation for different thicknesses of barite concrete qualities of the ISO. The attenuator material issued from different regions of Brazil. The experimental procedure in this research was validated by comparison between the experimental measurements of mass attenuation coefficients and coefficients determined by the same atomic composition, using as a tool to XCOM. The highest value of (μ/ρ) found experimentally was in the energy of 48 keV, in ISO 60 N quality, being 1.32(±0.49) for purple barite; 1.47(±0.41) for white barite and 1.75(±0.41) for cream barite. The determination of the chemical composition of the barite samples was of fundamental importance for the characterization of these materials. It can be seen that both calculated and measured data for the linear attenuation coefficients increase with the increasing materials density, as it is expected. It can be concluded that the photon attenuation coefficients depends on the photon energy and the materials density is the main contribution to the photon attenuation coefficients, which is important for radiation shielding.

Design of a K/Q-Band Beacon Receiver for the Alphasat TDP#5 Experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Morse, Jacquelynne R.

2014-01-01

This paper describes the design and performance of a coherent KQ-band (2040 GHz) beacon receiver developed at NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) that will be installed at the Politecnico di Milano (POLIMI) for use in the Alphasat Technology Demonstration Payload 5 (TDP5) beacon experiment. The goal of this experiment is to characterize rain fade attenuation at 40 GHz to improve the performance of existing statistical rain attenuation models in the Q-band. The ground terminal developed by NASA GRC utilizes an FFT-based frequency estimation receiver capable of characterizing total path attenuation effects due to gaseous absorption, clouds, rain, and scintillation. The receiver system has been characterized in the lab and demonstrates a system dynamic range performance of better than 58 dB at 1 Hz and better than 48 dB at 10 Hz rates.

Design of a K/Q-Band Beacon Receiver for the Alphasat Technology Demonstration Payload (TDP) #5 Experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Morse, Jacquelynne R.

2014-01-01

This paper describes the design and performance of a coherent KQ-band (2040 GHz) beacon receiver developed at NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) that will be installed at the Politecnico di Milano (POLIMI) for use in the Alphasat Technology Demonstration Payload 5 (TDP5) beacon experiment. The goal of this experiment is to characterize rain fade attenuation at 40 GHz to improve the performance of existing statistical rain attenuation models in the Q-band. The ground terminal developed by NASA GRC utilizes an FFT-based frequency estimation receiver capable of characterizing total path attenuation effects due to gaseous absorption, clouds, rain, and scintillation. The receiver system has been characterized in the lab and demonstrates a system dynamic range performance of better than 58 dB at 1 Hz and better than 48 dB at 10 Hz rates.

Design of a K/Q-band Beacon Receiver for the Alphasat TDP#5 Experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nessel, James A.; Zemba, Michael J.; Morse, Jacquelynne R.

2014-01-01

This paper describes the design and performance of a coherent K/Q-band (20/40GHz) beacon receiver developed at NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) that will be installed at the Politecnico di Milano (POLIMI) for use in the Alphasat Technology Demonstration Payload #5 (TDP#5) beacon experiment. The goal of this experiment is to characterize rain fade attenuation at 40GHz to improve the performance of existing statistical rain attenuation models in the Q-band. The ground terminal developed by NASA GRC utilizes an FFT-based frequency estimation receiver capable of characterizing total path attenuation effects due to gaseous absorption, clouds, rain, and scintillation. The receiver system has been characterized in the lab and demonstrates a system dynamic range performance of better than 58dB at 1Hz and better than 48dB at 10Hz rates.

Calibration of semi-stochastic procedure for simulating high-frequency ground motions

USGS Publications Warehouse

Seyhan, Emel; Stewart, Jonathan P.; Graves, Robert

2013-01-01

Broadband ground motion simulation procedures typically utilize physics-based modeling at low frequencies, coupled with semi-stochastic procedures at high frequencies. The high-frequency procedure considered here combines deterministic Fourier amplitude spectra (dependent on source, path, and site models) with random phase. Previous work showed that high-frequency intensity measures from this simulation methodology attenuate faster with distance and have lower intra-event dispersion than in empirical equations. We address these issues by increasing crustal damping (Q) to reduce distance attenuation bias and by introducing random site-to-site variations to Fourier amplitudes using a lognormal standard deviation ranging from 0.45 for Mw < 7 to zero for Mw 8. Ground motions simulated with the updated parameterization exhibit significantly reduced distance attenuation bias and revised dispersion terms are more compatible with those from empirical models but remain lower at large distances (e.g., > 100 km).

From conformal blocks to path integrals in the Vaidya geometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anous, Tarek; Hartman, Thomas; Rovai, Antonin; Sonner, Julian

2017-09-01

Correlators in conformal field theory are naturally organized as a sum over conformal blocks. In holographic theories, this sum must reorganize into a path integral over bulk fields and geometries. We explore how these two sums are related in the case of a point particle moving in the background of a 3d collapsing black hole. The conformal block expansion is recast as a sum over paths of the first-quantized particle moving in the bulk geometry. Off-shell worldlines of the particle correspond to subdominant contributions in the Euclidean conformal block expansion, but these same operators must be included in order to correctly reproduce complex saddles in the Lorentzian theory. During thermalization, a complex saddle dominates under certain circumstances; in this case, the CFT correlator is not given by the Virasoro identity block in any channel, but can be recovered by summing heavy operators. This effectively converts the conformal block expansion in CFT from a sum over intermediate states to a sum over channels that mimics the bulk path integral.

Real-time path planning and autonomous control for helicopter autorotation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yomchinda, Thanan

Autorotation is a descending maneuver that can be used to recover helicopters in the event of total loss of engine power; however it is an extremely difficult and complex maneuver. The objective of this work is to develop a real-time system which provides full autonomous control for autorotation landing of helicopters. The work includes the development of an autorotation path planning method and integration of the path planner with a primary flight control system. The trajectory is divided into three parts: entry, descent and flare. Three different optimization algorithms are used to generate trajectories for each of these segments. The primary flight control is designed using a linear dynamic inversion control scheme, and a path following control law is developed to track the autorotation trajectories. Details of the path planning algorithm, trajectory following control law, and autonomous autorotation system implementation are presented. The integrated system is demonstrated in real-time high fidelity simulations. Results indicate feasibility of the capability of the algorithms to operate in real-time and of the integrated systems ability to provide safe autorotation landings. Preliminary simulations of autonomous autorotation on a small UAV are presented which will lead to a final hardware demonstration of the algorithms.

Integrated optimization of unmanned aerial vehicle task allocation and path planning under steady wind.

PubMed

Luo, He; Liang, Zhengzheng; Zhu, Moning; Hu, Xiaoxuan; Wang, Guoqiang

2018-01-01

Wind has a significant effect on the control of fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), resulting in changes in their ground speed and direction, which has an important influence on the results of integrated optimization of UAV task allocation and path planning. The objective of this integrated optimization problem changes from minimizing flight distance to minimizing flight time. In this study, the Euclidean distance between any two targets is expanded to the Dubins path length, considering the minimum turning radius of fixed-wing UAVs. According to the vector relationship between wind speed, UAV airspeed, and UAV ground speed, a method is proposed to calculate the flight time of UAV between targets. On this basis, a variable-speed Dubins path vehicle routing problem (VS-DP-VRP) model is established with the purpose of minimizing the time required for UAVs to visit all the targets and return to the starting point. By designing a crossover operator and mutation operator, the genetic algorithm is used to solve the model, the results of which show that an effective UAV task allocation and path planning solution under steady wind can be provided.

Integrated optimization of unmanned aerial vehicle task allocation and path planning under steady wind

PubMed Central

Liang, Zhengzheng; Zhu, Moning; Hu, Xiaoxuan; Wang, Guoqiang

2018-01-01

Wind has a significant effect on the control of fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), resulting in changes in their ground speed and direction, which has an important influence on the results of integrated optimization of UAV task allocation and path planning. The objective of this integrated optimization problem changes from minimizing flight distance to minimizing flight time. In this study, the Euclidean distance between any two targets is expanded to the Dubins path length, considering the minimum turning radius of fixed-wing UAVs. According to the vector relationship between wind speed, UAV airspeed, and UAV ground speed, a method is proposed to calculate the flight time of UAV between targets. On this basis, a variable-speed Dubins path vehicle routing problem (VS-DP-VRP) model is established with the purpose of minimizing the time required for UAVs to visit all the targets and return to the starting point. By designing a crossover operator and mutation operator, the genetic algorithm is used to solve the model, the results of which show that an effective UAV task allocation and path planning solution under steady wind can be provided. PMID:29561888

Coarse-grained representation of the quasi adiabatic propagator path integral for the treatment of non-Markovian long-time bath memory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Richter, Martin; Fingerhut, Benjamin P.

2017-06-01

The description of non-Markovian effects imposed by low frequency bath modes poses a persistent challenge for path integral based approaches like the iterative quasi-adiabatic propagator path integral (iQUAPI) method. We present a novel approximate method, termed mask assisted coarse graining of influence coefficients (MACGIC)-iQUAPI, that offers appealing computational savings due to substantial reduction of considered path segments for propagation. The method relies on an efficient path segment merging procedure via an intermediate coarse grained representation of Feynman-Vernon influence coefficients that exploits physical properties of system decoherence. The MACGIC-iQUAPI method allows us to access the regime of biological significant long-time bath memory on the order of hundred propagation time steps while retaining convergence to iQUAPI results. Numerical performance is demonstrated for a set of benchmark problems that cover bath assisted long range electron transfer, the transition from coherent to incoherent dynamics in a prototypical molecular dimer and excitation energy transfer in a 24-state model of the Fenna-Matthews-Olson trimer complex where in all cases excellent agreement with numerically exact reference data is obtained.

Modeling the ponderomotive interaction of high-power laser beams with collisional plasma: the FDTD-based approach.

PubMed

Lin, Zhili; Chen, Xudong; Ding, Panfeng; Qiu, Weibin; Pu, Jixiong

2017-04-03

The ponderomotive interaction of high-power laser beams with collisional plasma is modeled in the nonrelativistic regime and is simulated using the powerful finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method for the first time in literature. The nonlinear and dissipative dielectric constant function of the collisional plasma is deduced that takes the ponderomotive effect into account and is implemented in the discrete framework of FDTD algorithms. Maclaurin series expansion approach is applied for implementing the obtained physical model and the time average of the square of light field is extracted by numerically evaluating an integral identity based on the composite trapezoidal rule for numerical integration. Two numerical examples corresponding to two different types of laser beams, Gaussian beam and vortex Laguerre-Gaussian beam, propagating in collisional plasma, are presented for specified laser and plasma parameters to verify the validity of the proposed FDTD-based approach. Simulation results show the anticipated self-focusing and attenuation phenomena of laser beams and the deformation of the spatial density distributions of electron plasma along the beam propagation path. Due to the flexibility of FDTD method in light beam excitation and accurate complex material modeling, the proposed approach has a wide application prospect in the study of the complex laser-plasma interactions in a small scale.

Ab initio molecular dynamics with nuclear quantum effects at classical cost: Ring polymer contraction for density functional theory.

PubMed

Marsalek, Ondrej; Markland, Thomas E

2016-02-07

Path integral molecular dynamics simulations, combined with an ab initio evaluation of interactions using electronic structure theory, incorporate the quantum mechanical nature of both the electrons and nuclei, which are essential to accurately describe systems containing light nuclei. However, path integral simulations have traditionally required a computational cost around two orders of magnitude greater than treating the nuclei classically, making them prohibitively costly for most applications. Here we show that the cost of path integral simulations can be dramatically reduced by extending our ring polymer contraction approach to ab initio molecular dynamics simulations. By using density functional tight binding as a reference system, we show that our ring polymer contraction scheme gives rapid and systematic convergence to the full path integral density functional theory result. We demonstrate the efficiency of this approach in ab initio simulations of liquid water and the reactive protonated and deprotonated water dimer systems. We find that the vast majority of the nuclear quantum effects are accurately captured using contraction to just the ring polymer centroid, which requires the same number of density functional theory calculations as a classical simulation. Combined with a multiple time step scheme using the same reference system, which allows the time step to be increased, this approach is as fast as a typical classical ab initio molecular dynamics simulation and 35× faster than a full path integral calculation, while still exactly including the quantum sampling of nuclei. This development thus offers a route to routinely include nuclear quantum effects in ab initio molecular dynamics simulations at negligible computational cost.

Assessment of Hydrogen Sulfide Minimum Detection Limits of an Open Path Tunable Diode Laser

EPA Science Inventory

During June 2007, U.S. EPA conducted a feasibility study to determine whether the EPA OTM 10 measurement approach, also known as radial plume mapping (RPM), was feasible. A Boreal open-path tunable diode laser (OP-TDL) to collect path-integrated hydrogen sulfide measurements alon...

Creativity, Spirituality, and Transcendence: Paths to Integrity and Wisdom in the Mature Self. Publications in Creativity Research.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Miller, Melvin E., Ed.; Cook-Greuter, Susanne R., Ed.

This book contains 11 papers on creativity, spirituality, and transcendence as paths to integrity and wisdom in the mature self. The book begins with the paper "Introduction--Creativity in Adulthood: Personal Maturity and Openness to Extraordinary Sources of Inspiration" (Susanne R. Cook-Greuter, Melvin E. Miller). The next four papers,…

Derivation of the Schrodinger Equation from the Hamilton-Jacobi Equation in Feynman's Path Integral Formulation of Quantum Mechanics

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Field, J. H.

2011-01-01

It is shown how the time-dependent Schrodinger equation may be simply derived from the dynamical postulate of Feynman's path integral formulation of quantum mechanics and the Hamilton-Jacobi equation of classical mechanics. Schrodinger's own published derivations of quantum wave equations, the first of which was also based on the Hamilton-Jacobi…

Finding the way with a noisy brain.

PubMed

Cheung, Allen; Vickerstaff, Robert

2010-11-11

Successful navigation is fundamental to the survival of nearly every animal on earth, and achieved by nervous systems of vastly different sizes and characteristics. Yet surprisingly little is known of the detailed neural circuitry from any species which can accurately represent space for navigation. Path integration is one of the oldest and most ubiquitous navigation strategies in the animal kingdom. Despite a plethora of computational models, from equational to neural network form, there is currently no consensus, even in principle, of how this important phenomenon occurs neurally. Recently, all path integration models were examined according to a novel, unifying classification system. Here we combine this theoretical framework with recent insights from directed walk theory, and develop an intuitive yet mathematically rigorous proof that only one class of neural representation of space can tolerate noise during path integration. This result suggests many existing models of path integration are not biologically plausible due to their intolerance to noise. This surprising result imposes significant computational limitations on the neurobiological spatial representation of all successfully navigating animals, irrespective of species. Indeed, noise-tolerance may be an important functional constraint on the evolution of neuroarchitectural plans in the animal kingdom.

A path integral methodology for obtaining thermodynamic properties of nonadiabatic systems using Gaussian mixture distributions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raymond, Neil; Iouchtchenko, Dmitri; Roy, Pierre-Nicholas; Nooijen, Marcel

2018-05-01

We introduce a new path integral Monte Carlo method for investigating nonadiabatic systems in thermal equilibrium and demonstrate an approach to reducing stochastic error. We derive a general path integral expression for the partition function in a product basis of continuous nuclear and discrete electronic degrees of freedom without the use of any mapping schemes. We separate our Hamiltonian into a harmonic portion and a coupling portion; the partition function can then be calculated as the product of a Monte Carlo estimator (of the coupling contribution to the partition function) and a normalization factor (that is evaluated analytically). A Gaussian mixture model is used to evaluate the Monte Carlo estimator in a computationally efficient manner. Using two model systems, we demonstrate our approach to reduce the stochastic error associated with the Monte Carlo estimator. We show that the selection of the harmonic oscillators comprising the sampling distribution directly affects the efficiency of the method. Our results demonstrate that our path integral Monte Carlo method's deviation from exact Trotter calculations is dominated by the choice of the sampling distribution. By improving the sampling distribution, we can drastically reduce the stochastic error leading to lower computational cost.

Quantum Mechanics, Path Integrals and Option Pricing:. Reducing the Complexity of Finance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baaquie, Belal E.; Corianò, Claudio; Srikant, Marakani

2003-04-01

Quantum Finance represents the synthesis of the techniques of quantum theory (quantum mechanics and quantum field theory) to theoretical and applied finance. After a brief overview of the connection between these fields, we illustrate some of the methods of lattice simulations of path integrals for the pricing of options. The ideas are sketched out for simple models, such as the Black-Scholes model, where analytical and numerical results are compared. Application of the method to nonlinear systems is also briefly overviewed. More general models, for exotic or path-dependent options are discussed.

Path integration of the time-dependent forced oscillator with a two-time quadratic action

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Tian Rong; Cheng, Bin Kang

1986-03-01

Using the prodistribution theory proposed by DeWitt-Morette [C. DeWitt-Morette, Commun. Math. Phys. 28, 47 (1972); C. DeWitt-Morette, A. Maheshwari, and B. Nelson, Phys. Rep. 50, 257 (1979)], the path integration of a time-dependent forced harmonic oscillator with a two-time quadratic action has been given in terms of the solutions of some integrodifferential equations. We then evaluate explicitly both the classical path and the propagator for the specific kernel introduced by Feynman in the polaron problem. Our results include the previous known results as special cases.

Effect of agmatine on long-term potentiation in morphine-treated rats.

PubMed

Lu, Wei; Dong, Hua-Jin; Bi, Guo-Hua; Zhao, Yong-Qi; Yang, Zheng; Su, Rui-Bin; Li, Jin

2010-08-01

Agmatine is an endogenous amine derived from l-arginine that potentiates morphine analgesia and inhibits naloxone precipitated abstinent symptoms in morphine dependent rats. In this study, the effects of agmatine on long-term potentiation (LTP) in the lateral perforant path (LPP)-granule cell synapse of the rat dentate gyrus (DG) on saline or morphine-treated rats were investigated. Population spikes (PS), evoked by stimulation of the LPP, was recorded from DG region. Acute agmatine (2.5-10mg/kg, s.c.) treatment facilitated hippocampal LTP. Acute morphine (30mg/kg, s.c.) treatment significantly attenuated hippocampal LTP and agmatine (10mg/kg, s.c.) restored the amplitude of PS that was attenuated by morphine. Chronic morphine treatment resulted in the enhancement of hippocampal LTP, agmatine co-administered with morphine significantly attenuated the enhancement of morphine on hippocampal LTP. Imidazoline receptor antagonist idazoxan (5mg/kg, i.p.) reversed the effect of agmatine. These results suggest that agmatine attenuated the effect of morphine on hippocampal LTP, possibly through activation of imidazoline receptor. Crown Copyright 2010. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Integration across Time Determines Path Deviation Discrimination for Moving Objects

PubMed Central

Whitaker, David; Levi, Dennis M.; Kennedy, Graeme J.

2008-01-01

Background Human vision is vital in determining our interaction with the outside world. In this study we characterize our ability to judge changes in the direction of motion of objects–a common task which can allow us either to intercept moving objects, or else avoid them if they pose a threat. Methodology/Principal Findings Observers were presented with objects which moved across a computer monitor on a linear path until the midline, at which point they changed their direction of motion, and observers were required to judge the direction of change. In keeping with the variety of objects we encounter in the real world, we varied characteristics of the moving stimuli such as velocity, extent of motion path and the object size. Furthermore, we compared performance for moving objects with the ability of observers to detect a deviation in a line which formed the static trace of the motion path, since it has been suggested that a form of static memory trace may form the basis for these types of judgment. The static line judgments were well described by a ‘scale invariant’ model in which any two stimuli which possess the same two-dimensional geometry (length/width) result in the same level of performance. Performance for the moving objects was entirely different. Irrespective of the path length, object size or velocity of motion, path deviation thresholds depended simply upon the duration of the motion path in seconds. Conclusions/Significance Human vision has long been known to integrate information across space in order to solve spatial tasks such as judgment of orientation or position. Here we demonstrate an intriguing mechanism which integrates direction information across time in order to optimize the judgment of path deviation for moving objects. PMID:18414653

Interannual Variability of Tropical Rainfall as Seen From TRMM

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Robertson, Franklin R.

2005-01-01

Considerable uncertainty surrounds the issue of whether precipitation over the tropical oceans (30deg N/S) systematically changes with interannual sea-surface temperature (SST) anomalies that accompany El Nino (warm) and La Nina (cold) events. Although it is well documented that El Nino-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events with marked SST changes over the tropical oceans produce significant regional changes in precipitation, water vapor, and radiative fluxes in the tropics, we still cannot yet adequately quantify the associated net integrated changes to water and heat balance over the entire tropical oceanic or land sectors. Resolving this uncertainty is important since precipitation and latent heat release variations over land and ocean sectors are key components of the tropical heat balance in its most aggregated form. Rainfall estimates from the Version 5 Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Precipitation Radar (PR) averaged over the tropical oceans have not solved this issue and, in fact, show marked differences with estimates from two TRMM Microwave Imager (TMI) passive microwave algorithms. In this paper we will focus on findings that uncertainties in microphysical assumptions necessitated by the single-frequency PR measurement pose difficulties for detecting climate-related precipitation signals. Recent work has shown that path-integrated attenuation derived from the effects of precipitation on the radar return from the ocean surface exhibits interannual variability that agrees closely with the TMI time series, yet the PR rainfall interannual variability (and attenuation derived predominantly from reflectivity) differs even in sign. We will explore these apparent inconsistencies and examine changes in new TRMM Version 6 retrievals. To place these results in a tropical water balance perspective we also examine interannual variations in evaporation over the tropical oceans made from TRMM and SSM/I (Special Sensor Microwave Imager) measurements of surface winds and humidity. Evaporation estimates from reanalysis and several global model experiments will also be compared to the TRMM findings and evaluated for consistency. The ability to detect regional shifts in freshwater flux over the oceans (equivalently, integrated moisture convergence) and moisture transport will be discussed.

Near-infrared bulk optical properties of goat wound tissue and human serum: consequences for an implantable optical glucose sensor.

PubMed

Aernouts, Ben; Sharma, Sandeep; Gellynck, Karolien; Vlaminck, Lieven; Cornelissen, Maria; Saeys, Wouter

2016-10-01

Near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy offers a promising technological platform for continuous glucose monitoring in the human body. Moreover, these measurements could be performed in vivo with an implantable single-chip based optical sensor. However, a thin tissue layer may grow in the optical path of the sensor. As most biological tissues are highly scattering, they only allow a small fraction of the collimated light to pass, significantly reducing the light throughput. To quantify the effect of a thin tissue layer in the optical path, the bulk optical properties of serum and tissue samples grown on implanted dummy sensors were characterized using double integrating sphere and unscattered transmittance measurements. The estimated bulk optical properties were then used to calculate the light attenuation through a thin tissue layer. The combination band of glucose was found to be the better option, relative to the first overtone band, as the absorptivity of glucose molecules is higher, while the reduction in unscattered transmittance due to tissue growth is less. Additionally, as the wound tissue was found to be highly scattering, the unscattered transmittance of the tissue layer is expected to be very low. Therefore, a sensor configuration which measures the diffuse transmittance and/or reflectance instead was recommended. (a) Dummy sensor; (b) explanted dummy sensor in tissue lump; (c) removal of dummy sensor from tissue lump; and (d) 900 µm slices of tissue lump. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

RAINLINK: Retrieval algorithm for rainfall monitoring employing microwave links from a cellular communication network

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Uijlenhoet, R.; Overeem, A.; Leijnse, H.; Rios Gaona, M. F.

2017-12-01

The basic principle of rainfall estimation using microwave links is as follows. Rainfall attenuates the electromagnetic signals transmitted from one telephone tower to another. By measuring the received power at one end of a microwave link as a function of time, the path-integrated attenuation due to rainfall can be calculated, which can be converted to average rainfall intensities over the length of a link. Microwave links from cellular communication networks have been proposed as a promising new rainfall measurement technique for one decade. They are particularly interesting for those countries where few surface rainfall observations are available. Yet to date no operational (real-time) link-based rainfall products are available. To advance the process towards operational application and upscaling of this technique, there is a need for freely available, user-friendly computer code for microwave link data processing and rainfall mapping. Such software is now available as R package "RAINLINK" on GitHub (https://github.com/overeem11/RAINLINK). It contains a working example to compute link-based 15-min rainfall maps for the entire surface area of The Netherlands for 40 hours from real microwave link data. This is a working example using actual data from an extensive network of commercial microwave links, for the first time, which will allow users to test their own algorithms and compare their results with ours. The package consists of modular functions, which facilitates running only part of the algorithm. The main processings steps are: 1) Preprocessing of link data (initial quality and consistency checks); 2) Wet-dry classification using link data; 3) Reference signal determination; 4) Removal of outliers ; 5) Correction of received signal powers; 6) Computation of mean path-averaged rainfall intensities; 7) Interpolation of rainfall intensities ; 8) Rainfall map visualisation. Some applications of RAINLINK will be shown based on microwave link data from a temperate climate (the Netherlands), and from a subtropical climate (Brazil). We hope that RAINLINK will promote the application of rainfall monitoring using microwave links in poorly gauged regions around the world. We invite researchers to contribute to RAINLINK to make the code more generally applicable to data from different networks and climates.

IntPath--an integrated pathway gene relationship database for model organisms and important pathogens

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Pathway data are important for understanding the relationship between genes, proteins and many other molecules in living organisms. Pathway gene relationships are crucial information for guidance, prediction, reference and assessment in biochemistry, computational biology, and medicine. Many well-established databases--e.g., KEGG, WikiPathways, and BioCyc--are dedicated to collecting pathway data for public access. However, the effectiveness of these databases is hindered by issues such as incompatible data formats, inconsistent molecular representations, inconsistent molecular relationship representations, inconsistent referrals to pathway names, and incomprehensive data from different databases. Results In this paper, we overcome these issues through extraction, normalization and integration of pathway data from several major public databases (KEGG, WikiPathways, BioCyc, etc). We build a database that not only hosts our integrated pathway gene relationship data for public access but also maintains the necessary updates in the long run. This public repository is named IntPath (Integrated Pathway gene relationship database for model organisms and important pathogens). Four organisms--S. cerevisiae, M. tuberculosis H37Rv, H. Sapiens and M. musculus--are included in this version (V2.0) of IntPath. IntPath uses the "full unification" approach to ensure no deletion and no introduced noise in this process. Therefore, IntPath contains much richer pathway-gene and pathway-gene pair relationships and much larger number of non-redundant genes and gene pairs than any of the single-source databases. The gene relationships of each gene (measured by average node degree) per pathway are significantly richer. The gene relationships in each pathway (measured by average number of gene pairs per pathway) are also considerably richer in the integrated pathways. Moderate manual curation are involved to get rid of errors and noises from source data (e.g., the gene ID errors in WikiPathways and relationship errors in KEGG). We turn complicated and incompatible xml data formats and inconsistent gene and gene relationship representations from different source databases into normalized and unified pathway-gene and pathway-gene pair relationships neatly recorded in simple tab-delimited text format and MySQL tables, which facilitates convenient automatic computation and large-scale referencing in many related studies. IntPath data can be downloaded in text format or MySQL dump. IntPath data can also be retrieved and analyzed conveniently through web service by local programs or through web interface by mouse clicks. Several useful analysis tools are also provided in IntPath. Conclusions We have overcome in IntPath the issues of compatibility, consistency, and comprehensiveness that often hamper effective use of pathway databases. We have included four organisms in the current release of IntPath. Our methodology and programs described in this work can be easily applied to other organisms; and we will include more model organisms and important pathogens in future releases of IntPath. IntPath maintains regular updates and is freely available at http://compbio.ddns.comp.nus.edu.sg:8080/IntPath. PMID:23282057

Adaptive control system for line-commutated inverters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dolland, C. R.; Bailey, D. A. (Inventor)

1983-01-01

A control system for a permanent magnet motor driven by a multiphase line commutated inverter is provided with integration for integrating the back EMF of each phase of the motor. This is used in generating system control signals for an inverter gate logic using a sync and firing angle (alpha) control generator connected to the outputs of the integrators. A precision full wave rectifier provides a speed control feedback signal to a phase delay rectifier via a gain and loop compensation circuit and to the integrators for adaptive control of the attenuation of low frequencies by the integrators as a function of motor speed. As the motor speed increases, the attenuation of low frequency components by the integrators is increased to offset the gain of the integrators to spurious low frequencies.

Infrared Cloud Imager Development for Atmospheric Optical Communication Characterization, and Measurements at the JPL Table Mountain Facility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nugent, P. W.; Shaw, J. A.; Piazzolla, S.

2013-02-01

The continuous demand for high data return in deep space and near-Earth satellite missions has led NASA and international institutions to consider alternative technologies for high-data-rate communications. One solution is the establishment of wide-bandwidth Earth-space optical communication links, which require (among other things) a nearly obstruction-free atmospheric path. Considering the atmospheric channel, the most common and most apparent impairments on Earth-space optical communication paths arise from clouds. Therefore, the characterization of the statistical behavior of cloud coverage for optical communication ground station candidate sites is of vital importance. In this article, we describe the development and deployment of a ground-based, long-wavelength infrared cloud imaging system able to monitor and characterize the cloud coverage. This system is based on a commercially available camera with a 62-deg diagonal field of view. A novel internal-shutter-based calibration technique allows radiometric calibration of the camera, which operates without a thermoelectric cooler. This cloud imaging system provides continuous day-night cloud detection with constant sensitivity. The cloud imaging system also includes data-processing algorithms that calculate and remove atmospheric emission to isolate cloud signatures, and enable classification of clouds according to their optical attenuation. Measurements of long-wavelength infrared cloud radiance are used to retrieve the optical attenuation (cloud optical depth due to absorption and scattering) in the wavelength range of interest from visible to near-infrared, where the cloud attenuation is quite constant. This article addresses the specifics of the operation, calibration, and data processing of the imaging system that was deployed at the NASA/JPL Table Mountain Facility (TMF) in California. Data are reported from July 2008 to July 2010. These data describe seasonal variability in cloud cover at the TMF site, with cloud amount (percentage of cloudy pixels) peaking at just over 51 percent during February, of which more than 60 percent had optical attenuation exceeding 12 dB at wavelengths in the range from the visible to the near-infrared. The lowest cloud amount was found during August, averaging 19.6 percent, and these clouds were mostly optically thin, with low attenuation.

Path-integral methods for analyzing the effects of fluctuations in stochastic hybrid neural networks.

PubMed

Bressloff, Paul C

2015-01-01

We consider applications of path-integral methods to the analysis of a stochastic hybrid model representing a network of synaptically coupled spiking neuronal populations. The state of each local population is described in terms of two stochastic variables, a continuous synaptic variable and a discrete activity variable. The synaptic variables evolve according to piecewise-deterministic dynamics describing, at the population level, synapses driven by spiking activity. The dynamical equations for the synaptic currents are only valid between jumps in spiking activity, and the latter are described by a jump Markov process whose transition rates depend on the synaptic variables. We assume a separation of time scales between fast spiking dynamics with time constant [Formula: see text] and slower synaptic dynamics with time constant τ. This naturally introduces a small positive parameter [Formula: see text], which can be used to develop various asymptotic expansions of the corresponding path-integral representation of the stochastic dynamics. First, we derive a variational principle for maximum-likelihood paths of escape from a metastable state (large deviations in the small noise limit [Formula: see text]). We then show how the path integral provides an efficient method for obtaining a diffusion approximation of the hybrid system for small ϵ. The resulting Langevin equation can be used to analyze the effects of fluctuations within the basin of attraction of a metastable state, that is, ignoring the effects of large deviations. We illustrate this by using the Langevin approximation to analyze the effects of intrinsic noise on pattern formation in a spatially structured hybrid network. In particular, we show how noise enlarges the parameter regime over which patterns occur, in an analogous fashion to PDEs. Finally, we carry out a [Formula: see text]-loop expansion of the path integral, and use this to derive corrections to voltage-based mean-field equations, analogous to the modified activity-based equations generated from a neural master equation.

MPI CyberMotion Simulator: implementation of a novel motion simulator to investigate multisensory path integration in three dimensions.

PubMed

Barnett-Cowan, Michael; Meilinger, Tobias; Vidal, Manuel; Teufel, Harald; Bülthoff, Heinrich H

2012-05-10

Path integration is a process in which self-motion is integrated over time to obtain an estimate of one's current position relative to a starting point (1). Humans can do path integration based exclusively on visual (2-3), auditory (4), or inertial cues (5). However, with multiple cues present, inertial cues - particularly kinaesthetic - seem to dominate (6-7). In the absence of vision, humans tend to overestimate short distances (<5 m) and turning angles (<30°), but underestimate longer ones (5). Movement through physical space therefore does not seem to be accurately represented by the brain. Extensive work has been done on evaluating path integration in the horizontal plane, but little is known about vertical movement (see (3) for virtual movement from vision alone). One reason for this is that traditional motion simulators have a small range of motion restricted mainly to the horizontal plane. Here we take advantage of a motion simulator (8-9) with a large range of motion to assess whether path integration is similar between horizontal and vertical planes. The relative contributions of inertial and visual cues for path navigation were also assessed. 16 observers sat upright in a seat mounted to the flange of a modified KUKA anthropomorphic robot arm. Sensory information was manipulated by providing visual (optic flow, limited lifetime star field), vestibular-kinaesthetic (passive self motion with eyes closed), or visual and vestibular-kinaesthetic motion cues. Movement trajectories in the horizontal, sagittal and frontal planes consisted of two segment lengths (1st: 0.4 m, 2nd: 1 m; ±0.24 m/s(2) peak acceleration). The angle of the two segments was either 45° or 90°. Observers pointed back to their origin by moving an arrow that was superimposed on an avatar presented on the screen. Observers were more likely to underestimate angle size for movement in the horizontal plane compared to the vertical planes. In the frontal plane observers were more likely to overestimate angle size while there was no such bias in the sagittal plane. Finally, observers responded slower when answering based on vestibular-kinaesthetic information alone. Human path integration based on vestibular-kinaesthetic information alone thus takes longer than when visual information is present. That pointing is consistent with underestimating and overestimating the angle one has moved through in the horizontal and vertical planes respectively, suggests that the neural representation of self-motion through space is non-symmetrical which may relate to the fact that humans experience movement mostly within the horizontal plane.

Backscatter-to-Extinction Ratios in the Top Layers of Tropical Mesoscale Convective Systems and in Isolated Cirrus from LITE Observations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Platt, C. M. R.; Winker, D. M.; Vaughan, M. A.; Miller, S. D.

1999-01-01

Cloud-integrated attenuated backscatter from observations with the Lidar In-Space Technology Experiment (LITE) was studied over a range of cirrus clouds capping some extensive mesoscale convective systems (MCSS) in the Tropical West Pacific. The integrated backscatter when the cloud is completely attenuating, and when corrected for multiple scattering, is a measure of the cloud particle backscatter phase function. Four different cases of MCS were studied. The first was very large, very intense, and fully attenuating, with cloud tops extending to 17 km and a maximum lidar pulse penetration of about 3 km. It also exhibited the highest integrated attenuated isotropic backscatter, with values in the 532-nm channel of up to 2.5 near the center of the system, falling to 0.6 near the edges. The second MCS had cloud tops that extended to 14.8 km. Although MCS2 was almost fully attenuating, the pulse penetration into the cloud was up to 7 km and the MCS2 had a more diffuse appearance than MCS1. The integrated backscatter values were much lower in this system but with some systematic variations between 0.44 and 0.75. The third MCS was Typhoon Melissa. Values of integrated backscatter in tt-ds case varied from 1.64 near the eye of the typhoon to between 0.44 and 1.0 in the areas of typhoon outflow and in the 532-nm channel. Mean pulse penetration through the cloud top was 2-3 km, the lowest penetration of any of the systems. The fourth MCS consisted of a region of outflow from Typhoon Melissa. The cloud was semitransparent for more than half of the image time. During that time, maximum cloud depth was about 7 km. The integrated backscatter varied from about 0.38 to 0.63 in the 532-nm channel when the cloud was fully attenuating. In some isolated cirrus between the main systems, a plot of integrated backscatter against one minus the two-way transmittance gave a linear dependence with a maximum value of 0.35 when the clouds were fully attenuating. The effective backscatter-to-extinction ratios, when allowing for different multiple-scattering factors from space, were often within the range of those observed with ground-based lidar. Exceptions occurred near the centers of the most intense convection, where values were measured that were considerably higher than those in cirrus observed from the surface. In this case, the values were more compatible with theoretical values for perfectly formed hexagonal columns or plates. The large range in theoretically calculated back- scatter-to-extinction ratio and integrated multiple-scattering factor precluded a closer interpretation in terms of cloud microphysics.

A global solution to the Schrödinger equation: From Henstock to Feynman

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

Nathanson, Ekaterina S., E-mail: enathanson@ggc.edu; Jørgensen, Palle E. T., E-mail: palle-jorgensen@uiowa.edu

2015-09-15

One of the key elements of Feynman’s formulation of non-relativistic quantum mechanics is a so-called Feynman path integral. It plays an important role in the theory, but it appears as a postulate based on intuition, rather than a well-defined object. All previous attempts to supply Feynman’s theory with rigorous mathematics underpinning, based on the physical requirements, have not been satisfactory. The difficulty comes from the need to define a measure on the infinite dimensional space of paths and to create an integral that would possess all of the properties requested by Feynman. In the present paper, we consider a newmore » approach to defining the Feynman path integral, based on the theory developed by Muldowney [A Modern Theory of Random Variable: With Applications in Stochastic Calcolus, Financial Mathematics, and Feynman Integration (John Wiley & Sons, Inc., New Jersey, 2012)]. Muldowney uses the Henstock integration technique and deals with non-absolute integrability of the Fresnel integrals, in order to obtain a representation of the Feynman path integral as a functional. This approach offers a mathematically rigorous definition supporting Feynman’s intuitive derivations. But in his work, Muldowney gives only local in space-time solutions. A physical solution to the non-relativistic Schrödinger equation must be global, and it must be given in the form of a unitary one-parameter group in L{sup 2}(ℝ{sup n}). The purpose of this paper is to show that a system of one-dimensional local Muldowney’s solutions may be extended to yield a global solution. Moreover, the global extension can be represented by a unitary one-parameter group acting in L{sup 2}(ℝ{sup n})« less

Processor Would Find Best Paths On Map

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Eberhardt, Silvio P.

1990-01-01

Proposed very-large-scale integrated (VLSI) circuit image-data processor finds path of least cost from specified origin to any destination on map. Cost of traversal assigned to each picture element of map. Path of least cost from originating picture element to every other picture element computed as path that preserves as much as possible of signal transmitted by originating picture element. Dedicated microprocessor at each picture element stores cost of traversal and performs its share of computations of paths of least cost. Least-cost-path problem occurs in research, military maneuvers, and in planning routes of vehicles.

Modification of Kirchhoff migration with variable sound speed and attenuation for acoustic imaging of media and application to tomographic imaging of the breast

PubMed Central

Schmidt, Steven; Duric, Nebojsa; Li, Cuiping; Roy, Olivier; Huang, Zhi-Feng

2011-01-01

Purpose: To explore the feasibility of improving cross-sectional reflection imaging of the breast using refractive and attenuation corrections derived from ultrasound tomography data. Methods: The authors have adapted the planar Kirchhoff migration method, commonly used in geophysics to reconstruct reflection images, for use in ultrasound tomography imaging of the breast. Furthermore, the authors extended this method to allow for refractive and attenuative corrections. Using clinical data obtained with a breast imaging prototype, the authors applied this method to generate cross-sectional reflection images of the breast that were corrected using known distributions of sound speed and attenuation obtained from the same data. Results: A comparison of images reconstructed with and without the corrections showed varying degrees of improvement. The sound speed correction resulted in sharpening of detail, while the attenuation correction reduced the central darkening caused by path length dependent losses. The improvements appeared to be greatest when dense tissue was involved and the least for fatty tissue. These results are consistent with the expectation that denser tissues lead to both greater refractive effects and greater attenuation. Conclusions: Although conventional ultrasound techniques use time-gain control to correct for attenuation gradients, these corrections lead to artifacts because the true attenuation distribution is not known. The use of constant sound speed leads to additional artifacts that arise from not knowing the sound speed distribution. The authors show that in the context of ultrasound tomography, it is possible to construct reflection images of the breast that correct for inhomogeneous distributions of both sound speed and attenuation. PMID:21452737

The Effect of Various Waste Materials' Contents on the Attenuation Level of Anti-Radiation Shielding Concrete.

PubMed

Azeez, Ali Basheer; Mohammed, Kahtan S; Abdullah, Mohd Mustafa Al Bakri; Hussin, Kamarudin; Sandu, Andrei Victor; Razak, Rafiza Abdul

2013-10-23

Samples of concrete contain various waste materials, such as iron particulates, steel balls of used ball bearings and slags from steel industry were assessed for their anti-radiation attenuation coefficient properties. The attenuation measurements were performed using gamma spectrometer of NaI (Tl) detector. The utilized radiation sources comprised 137 Cs and ⁶⁰Co radioactive elements with photon energies of 0.662 MeV for 137 Cs and two energy levels of 1.17 and 1.33 MeV for the ⁶⁰Co. Likewise the mean free paths for the tested samples were obtained. The aim of this work is to investigate the effect of the waste loading rates and the particulate dispersive manner within the concrete matrix on the attenuation coefficients. The maximum linear attenuation coefficient (μ) was attained for concrete incorporates iron filling wastes of 30 wt %. They were of 1.12 ± 1.31×10 -3 for 137 Cs and 0.92 ± 1.57 × 10 -3 for ⁶⁰Co. Substantial improvement in attenuation performance by 20%-25% was achieved for concrete samples incorporate iron fillings as opposed to that of steel ball samples at different (5%-30%) loading rates. The steel balls and the steel slags gave much inferior values. The microstructure, concrete-metal composite density, the homogeneity and particulate dispersion were examined and evaluated using different metallographic, microscopic and measurement facilities.

Computer calculation of Witten's 3-manifold invariant

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Freed, Daniel S.; Gompf, Robert E.

1991-10-01

Witten's 2+1 dimensional Chern-Simons theory is exactly solvable. We compute the partition function, a topological invariant of 3-manifolds, on generalized Seifert spaces. Thus we test the path integral using the theory of 3-manifolds. In particular, we compare the exact solution with the asymptotic formula predicted by perturbation theory. We conclude that this path integral works as advertised and gives an effective topological invariant.

Path integral analysis of Jarzynski's equality: Analytical results

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Minh, David D. L.; Adib, Artur B.

2009-02-01

We apply path integrals to study nonequilibrium work theorems in the context of Brownian dynamics, deriving in particular the equations of motion governing the most typical and most dominant trajectories. For the analytically soluble cases of a moving harmonic potential and a harmonic oscillator with a time-dependent natural frequency, we find such trajectories, evaluate the work-weighted propagators, and validate Jarzynski’s equality.

Book Review:

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Louko, Jorma

2007-04-01

Bastianelli and van Nieuwenhuizen's monograph `Path Integrals and Anomalies in Curved Space' collects in one volume the results of the authors' 15-year research programme on anomalies that arise in Feynman diagrams of quantum field theories on curved manifolds. The programme was spurred by the path-integral techniques introduced in Alvarez-Gaumé and Witten's renowned 1983 paper on gravitational anomalies which, together with the anomaly cancellation paper by Green and Schwarz, led to the string theory explosion of the 1980s. The authors have produced a tour de force, giving a comprehensive and pedagogical exposition of material that is central to current research. The first part of the book develops from scratch a formalism for defining and evaluating quantum mechanical path integrals in nonlinear sigma models, using time slicing regularization, mode regularization and dimensional regularization. The second part applies this formalism to quantum fields of spin 0, 1/2, 1 and 3/2 and to self-dual antisymmetric tensor fields. The book concludes with a discussion of gravitational anomalies in 10-dimensional supergravities, for both classical and exceptional gauge groups. The target audience is researchers and graduate students in curved spacetime quantum field theory and string theory, and the aims, style and pedagogical level have been chosen with this audience in mind. Path integrals are treated as calculational tools, and the notation and terminology are throughout tailored to calculational convenience, rather than to mathematical rigour. The style is closer to that of an exceedingly thorough and self-contained review article than to that of a textbook. As the authors mention, the first part of the book can be used as an introduction to path integrals in quantum mechanics, although in a classroom setting perhaps more likely as supplementary reading than a primary class text. Readers outside the core audience, including this reviewer, will gain from the book a heightened appreciation of the central role of regularization as a defining ingredient of a quantum field theory and will be impressed by the agreement of results arising from different regularization schemes. The readers may in particular enjoy the authors' `brief history of anomalies' in quantum field theory, as well as a similar historical discussion of path integrals in quantum mechanics.

Acetylcholine contributes to the integration of self-movement cues in head direction cells.

PubMed

Yoder, Ryan M; Chan, Jeremy H M; Taube, Jeffrey S

2017-08-01

Acetylcholine contributes to accurate performance on some navigational tasks, but details of its contribution to the underlying brain signals are not fully understood. The medial septal area provides widespread cholinergic input to various brain regions, but selective damage to medial septal cholinergic neurons generally has little effect on landmark-based navigation, or the underlying neural representations of location and directional heading in visual environments. In contrast, the loss of medial septal cholinergic neurons disrupts navigation based on path integration, but no studies have tested whether these path integration deficits are associated with disrupted head direction (HD) cell activity. Therefore, we evaluated HD cell responses to visual cue rotations in a familiar arena, and during navigation between familiar and novel arenas, after muscarinic receptor blockade with systemic atropine. Atropine treatment reduced the peak firing rate of HD cells, but failed to significantly affect other HD cell firing properties. Atropine also failed to significantly disrupt the dominant landmark control of the HD signal, even though we used a procedure that challenged this landmark control. In contrast, atropine disrupted HD cell stability during navigation between familiar and novel arenas, where path integration normally maintains a consistent HD cell signal across arenas. These results suggest that acetylcholine contributes to path integration, in part, by facilitating the use of idiothetic cues to maintain a consistent representation of directional heading. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved).

Path Integrals for Electronic Densities, Reactivity Indices, and Localization Functions in Quantum Systems

PubMed Central

Putz, Mihai V.

2009-01-01

The density matrix theory, the ancestor of density functional theory, provides the immediate framework for Path Integral (PI) development, allowing the canonical density be extended for the many-electronic systems through the density functional closure relationship. Yet, the use of path integral formalism for electronic density prescription presents several advantages: assures the inner quantum mechanical description of the system by parameterized paths; averages the quantum fluctuations; behaves as the propagator for time-space evolution of quantum information; resembles Schrödinger equation; allows quantum statistical description of the system through partition function computing. In this framework, four levels of path integral formalism were presented: the Feynman quantum mechanical, the semiclassical, the Feynman-Kleinert effective classical, and the Fokker-Planck non-equilibrium ones. In each case the density matrix or/and the canonical density were rigorously defined and presented. The practical specializations for quantum free and harmonic motions, for statistical high and low temperature limits, the smearing justification for the Bohr’s quantum stability postulate with the paradigmatic Hydrogen atomic excursion, along the quantum chemical calculation of semiclassical electronegativity and hardness, of chemical action and Mulliken electronegativity, as well as by the Markovian generalizations of Becke-Edgecombe electronic focalization functions – all advocate for the reliability of assuming PI formalism of quantum mechanics as a versatile one, suited for analytically and/or computationally modeling of a variety of fundamental physical and chemical reactivity concepts characterizing the (density driving) many-electronic systems. PMID:20087467

Path integrals for electronic densities, reactivity indices, and localization functions in quantum systems.

PubMed

Putz, Mihai V

2009-11-10

The density matrix theory, the ancestor of density functional theory, provides the immediate framework for Path Integral (PI) development, allowing the canonical density be extended for the many-electronic systems through the density functional closure relationship. Yet, the use of path integral formalism for electronic density prescription presents several advantages: assures the inner quantum mechanical description of the system by parameterized paths; averages the quantum fluctuations; behaves as the propagator for time-space evolution of quantum information; resembles Schrödinger equation; allows quantum statistical description of the system through partition function computing. In this framework, four levels of path integral formalism were presented: the Feynman quantum mechanical, the semiclassical, the Feynman-Kleinert effective classical, and the Fokker-Planck non-equilibrium ones. In each case the density matrix or/and the canonical density were rigorously defined and presented. The practical specializations for quantum free and harmonic motions, for statistical high and low temperature limits, the smearing justification for the Bohr's quantum stability postulate with the paradigmatic Hydrogen atomic excursion, along the quantum chemical calculation of semiclassical electronegativity and hardness, of chemical action and Mulliken electronegativity, as well as by the Markovian generalizations of Becke-Edgecombe electronic focalization functions - all advocate for the reliability of assuming PI formalism of quantum mechanics as a versatile one, suited for analytically and/or computationally modeling of a variety of fundamental physical and chemical reactivity concepts characterizing the (density driving) many-electronic systems.

Calcium glycerophosphate preserves transepithelial integrity in the Caco-2 model of intestinal transport.

PubMed

Datta, Palika; Weis, Margaret T

2015-08-14

To assess the direct effects of ischemia on intestinal epithelial integrity. Furthermore, clinical efforts at mitigating the effect of hypoperfusion on gut permeability have focused on restoring gut vascular function. We report that, in the Caco-2 cell model of transepithelial transport, calcium glycerophosphate (CGP), an inhibitor of intestinal alkaline phosphatase F3, has a significant effect to preserve transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) and to attenuate increases in mannitol flux rates during hypoxia or cytokine stimulation. The effect was observable even at concentrations as low as 1 μmol/L. As celiac disease is also marked by a loss of gut epithelial integrity, the effect of CGP to attenuate the effect of the α-gliadin peptide 31-55 was also examined. In this instance, CGP exerted little effect of preservation of TEER, but significantly attenuated peptide induced increase in mannitol flux. It appears that CGP treatment might synergize with other therapies to preserve gut epithelial integrity.

Calcium glycerophosphate preserves transepithelial integrity in the Caco-2 model of intestinal transport

PubMed Central

Datta, Palika; Weis, Margaret T

2015-01-01

AIM: To assess the direct effects of ischemia on intestinal epithelial integrity. Furthermore, clinical efforts at mitigating the effect of hypoperfusion on gut permeability have focused on restoring gut vascular function. METHODS: We report that, in the Caco-2 cell model of transepithelial transport, calcium glycerophosphate (CGP), an inhibitor of intestinal alkaline phosphatase F3, has a significant effect to preserve transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) and to attenuate increases in mannitol flux rates during hypoxia or cytokine stimulation. RESULTS: The effect was observable even at concentrations as low as 1 μmol/L. As celiac disease is also marked by a loss of gut epithelial integrity, the effect of CGP to attenuate the effect of the α-gliadin peptide 31-55 was also examined. In this instance, CGP exerted little effect of preservation of TEER, but significantly attenuated peptide induced increase in mannitol flux. CONCLUSION: It appears that CGP treatment might synergize with other therapies to preserve gut epithelial integrity. PMID:26290632

Ab initio molecular dynamics with nuclear quantum effects at classical cost: Ring polymer contraction for density functional theory

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

Marsalek, Ondrej; Markland, Thomas E., E-mail: tmarkland@stanford.edu

Path integral molecular dynamics simulations, combined with an ab initio evaluation of interactions using electronic structure theory, incorporate the quantum mechanical nature of both the electrons and nuclei, which are essential to accurately describe systems containing light nuclei. However, path integral simulations have traditionally required a computational cost around two orders of magnitude greater than treating the nuclei classically, making them prohibitively costly for most applications. Here we show that the cost of path integral simulations can be dramatically reduced by extending our ring polymer contraction approach to ab initio molecular dynamics simulations. By using density functional tight binding asmore » a reference system, we show that our ring polymer contraction scheme gives rapid and systematic convergence to the full path integral density functional theory result. We demonstrate the efficiency of this approach in ab initio simulations of liquid water and the reactive protonated and deprotonated water dimer systems. We find that the vast majority of the nuclear quantum effects are accurately captured using contraction to just the ring polymer centroid, which requires the same number of density functional theory calculations as a classical simulation. Combined with a multiple time step scheme using the same reference system, which allows the time step to be increased, this approach is as fast as a typical classical ab initio molecular dynamics simulation and 35× faster than a full path integral calculation, while still exactly including the quantum sampling of nuclei. This development thus offers a route to routinely include nuclear quantum effects in ab initio molecular dynamics simulations at negligible computational cost.« less

System and method for interfacing large-area electronics with integrated circuit devices

DOEpatents

Verma, Naveen; Glisic, Branko; Sturm, James; Wagner, Sigurd

2016-07-12

A system and method for interfacing large-area electronics with integrated circuit devices is provided. The system may be implemented in an electronic device including a large area electronic (LAE) device disposed on a substrate. An integrated circuit IC is disposed on the substrate. A non-contact interface is disposed on the substrate and coupled between the LAE device and the IC. The non-contact interface is configured to provide at least one of a data acquisition path or control path between the LAE device and the IC.

Path-integral representation for the relativistic particle propagators and BFV quantization

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

Fradkin, E.S.; Gitman, D.M.

1991-11-15

The path-integral representations for the propagators of scalar and spinor fields in an external electromagnetic field are derived. The Hamiltonian form of such expressions can be interpreted in the sense of Batalin-Fradkin-Vilkovisky quantization of one-particle theory. The Lagrangian representation as derived allows one to extract in a natural way the expressions for the corresponding gauge-invariant (reparametrization- and supergauge-invariant) actions for pointlike scalar and spinning particles. At the same time, the measure and ranges of integrations, admissible gauge conditions, and boundary conditions can be exactly established.

Dynamics of nonlinear feedback control.

PubMed

Snippe, H P; van Hateren, J H

2007-05-01

Feedback control in neural systems is ubiquitous. Here we study the mathematics of nonlinear feedback control. We compare models in which the input is multiplied by a dynamic gain (multiplicative control) with models in which the input is divided by a dynamic attenuation (divisive control). The gain signal (resp. the attenuation signal) is obtained through a concatenation of an instantaneous nonlinearity and a linear low-pass filter operating on the output of the feedback loop. For input steps, the dynamics of gain and attenuation can be very different, depending on the mathematical form of the nonlinearity and the ordering of the nonlinearity and the filtering in the feedback loop. Further, the dynamics of feedback control can be strongly asymmetrical for increment versus decrement steps of the input. Nevertheless, for each of the models studied, the nonlinearity in the feedback loop can be chosen such that immediately after an input step, the dynamics of feedback control is symmetric with respect to increments versus decrements. Finally, we study the dynamics of the output of the control loops and find conditions under which overshoots and undershoots of the output relative to the steady-state output occur when the models are stimulated with low-pass filtered steps. For small steps at the input, overshoots and undershoots of the output do not occur when the filtering in the control path is faster than the low-pass filtering at the input. For large steps at the input, however, results depend on the model, and for some of the models, multiple overshoots and undershoots can occur even with a fast control path.

i-PI: A Python interface for ab initio path integral molecular dynamics simulations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ceriotti, Michele; More, Joshua; Manolopoulos, David E.

2014-03-01

Recent developments in path integral methodology have significantly reduced the computational expense of including quantum mechanical effects in the nuclear motion in ab initio molecular dynamics simulations. However, the implementation of these developments requires a considerable programming effort, which has hindered their adoption. Here we describe i-PI, an interface written in Python that has been designed to minimise the effort required to bring state-of-the-art path integral techniques to an electronic structure program. While it is best suited to first principles calculations and path integral molecular dynamics, i-PI can also be used to perform classical molecular dynamics simulations, and can just as easily be interfaced with an empirical forcefield code. To give just one example of the many potential applications of the interface, we use it in conjunction with the CP2K electronic structure package to showcase the importance of nuclear quantum effects in high-pressure water. Catalogue identifier: AERN_v1_0 Program summary URL: http://cpc.cs.qub.ac.uk/summaries/AERN_v1_0.html Program obtainable from: CPC Program Library, Queen’s University, Belfast, N. Ireland Licensing provisions: GNU General Public License, version 3 No. of lines in distributed program, including test data, etc.: 138626 No. of bytes in distributed program, including test data, etc.: 3128618 Distribution format: tar.gz Programming language: Python. Computer: Multiple architectures. Operating system: Linux, Mac OSX, Windows. RAM: Less than 256 Mb Classification: 7.7. External routines: NumPy Nature of problem: Bringing the latest developments in the modelling of nuclear quantum effects with path integral molecular dynamics to ab initio electronic structure programs with minimal implementational effort. Solution method: State-of-the-art path integral molecular dynamics techniques are implemented in a Python interface. Any electronic structure code can be patched to receive the atomic coordinates from the Python interface, and to return the forces and energy that are used to integrate the equations of motion. Restrictions: This code only deals with distinguishable particles. It does not include fermonic or bosonic exchanges between equivalent nuclei, which can become important at very low temperatures. Running time: Depends dramatically on the nature of the simulation being performed. A few minutes for short tests with empirical force fields, up to several weeks for production calculations with ab initio forces. The examples provided with the code run in less than an hour.

Path-integral theory of an axially confined worm-like chain

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smith, D. A.

2001-06-01

A path-integral formulation is developed for the thermodynamic properties of a worm-like chain moving on a surface and laterally confined by a harmonic potential. The free energy of the chain is calculated as a function of its length and boundary conditions at each end. Distribution functions for chain displacements can be constructed by utilizing the Markov property as a function of displacement φ(s) and its derivative dφ(s)/ds along the path. These quantities are also calculated in the presence of pinning sites which impose fixed positive or negative displacements, foreshadowing their application to a model for the regulation of striated muscle.

Critique of Coleman's Theory of the Vanishing Cosmological Constant

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Susskind, Leonard

In these lectures I would like to review some of the criticisms to the Coleman worm-hole theory of the vanishing cosmological constant. In particular, I would like to focus on the most fundamental assumption that the path integral over topologies defines a probability for the cosmological constant which has the form EXP(A) with A being the Baum-Hawking-Coleman saddle point. Coleman argues that the euclideam path integral over all geometries may be dominated by special configurations which consist of large smooth "spheres" connected by any number of narrow wormholes. Formally summing up such configurations gives a very divergent expression for the path integral…

Triple-Pulsed Two-Micron Integrated Path Differential Absorption Lidar: A New Active Remote Sensing Capability with Path to Space

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Singh, Upendra N.; Refaat, Tamer F.; Petros, Mulugeta; Yu, Jirong

2015-01-01

The two-micron wavelength is suitable for monitoring atmospheric water vapor and carbon dioxide, the two most dominant greenhouse gases. Recent advances in 2-micron laser technology paved the way for constructing state-of-the-art lidar transmitters for active remote sensing applications. In this paper, a new triple-pulsed 2-micron integrated path differential absorption lidar is presented. This lidar is capable of measuring either two species or single specie with two different weighting functions, simultaneously and independently. Development of this instrument is conducted at NASA Langley Research Center. Instrument scaling for projected future space missions will be discussed.

EuPathDB: the eukaryotic pathogen genomics database resource

PubMed Central

Aurrecoechea, Cristina; Barreto, Ana; Basenko, Evelina Y.; Brestelli, John; Brunk, Brian P.; Cade, Shon; Crouch, Kathryn; Doherty, Ryan; Falke, Dave; Fischer, Steve; Gajria, Bindu; Harb, Omar S.; Heiges, Mark; Hertz-Fowler, Christiane; Hu, Sufen; Iodice, John; Kissinger, Jessica C.; Lawrence, Cris; Li, Wei; Pinney, Deborah F.; Pulman, Jane A.; Roos, David S.; Shanmugasundram, Achchuthan; Silva-Franco, Fatima; Steinbiss, Sascha; Stoeckert, Christian J.; Spruill, Drew; Wang, Haiming; Warrenfeltz, Susanne; Zheng, Jie

2017-01-01

The Eukaryotic Pathogen Genomics Database Resource (EuPathDB, http://eupathdb.org) is a collection of databases covering 170+ eukaryotic pathogens (protists & fungi), along with relevant free-living and non-pathogenic species, and select pathogen hosts. To facilitate the discovery of meaningful biological relationships, the databases couple preconfigured searches with visualization and analysis tools for comprehensive data mining via intuitive graphical interfaces and APIs. All data are analyzed with the same workflows, including creation of gene orthology profiles, so data are easily compared across data sets, data types and organisms. EuPathDB is updated with numerous new analysis tools, features, data sets and data types. New tools include GO, metabolic pathway and word enrichment analyses plus an online workspace for analysis of personal, non-public, large-scale data. Expanded data content is mostly genomic and functional genomic data while new data types include protein microarray, metabolic pathways, compounds, quantitative proteomics, copy number variation, and polysomal transcriptomics. New features include consistent categorization of searches, data sets and genome browser tracks; redesigned gene pages; effective integration of alternative transcripts; and a EuPathDB Galaxy instance for private analyses of a user's data. Forthcoming upgrades include user workspaces for private integration of data with existing EuPathDB data and improved integration and presentation of host–pathogen interactions. PMID:27903906

High-order Path Integral Monte Carlo methods for solving strongly correlated fermion problems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chin, Siu A.

2015-03-01

In solving for the ground state of a strongly correlated many-fermion system, the conventional second-order Path Integral Monte Carlo method is plagued with the sign problem. This is due to the large number of anti-symmetric free fermion propagators that are needed to extract the square of the ground state wave function at large imaginary time. In this work, I show that optimized fourth-order Path Integral Monte Carlo methods, which uses no more than 5 free-fermion propagators, in conjunction with the use of the Hamiltonian energy estimator, can yield accurate ground state energies for quantum dots with up to 20 polarized electrons. The correlations are directly built-in and no explicit wave functions are needed. This work is supported by the Qatar National Research Fund NPRP GRANT #5-674-1-114.

Short-Path Statistics and the Diffusion Approximation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Blanco, Stéphane; Fournier, Richard

2006-12-01

In the field of first return time statistics in bounded domains, short paths may be defined as those paths for which the diffusion approximation is inappropriate. This is at the origin of numerous open questions concerning the characterization of residence time distributions. We show here how general integral constraints can be derived that make it possible to address short-path statistics indirectly by application of the diffusion approximation to long paths. Application to the moments of the distribution at the low-Knudsen limit leads to simple practical results and novel physical pictures.

Attenuation tomography in the western central Andes: A detailed insight into the structure of a magmatic arc

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Haberland, Christian; Rietbrock, Andreas

2001-06-01

High-quality data from 1498 local earthquakes recorded by the PISCO '94 (Proyecto de Investigatión Sismológica de la Cordillera Occidental, 1994) and ANCORP '96 (Andean Continental Research Project, 1996) temporary seismological networks allowed the detailed determination of the three-dimensional (3-D) attenuation structure (Qp-1) beneath the recent magmatic arc in the western central Andes (20° to 24°S). Assuming a frequency-independent Qp-1 in a frequency band between 1 and 30 Hz, whole path attenuation (t*) was estimated from the amplitude spectra of the P waves using spectral ratios and a spectral inversion technique. The damped least squares inversion (tomography) of the data reveals a complex attenuation structure. Crust and mantle of the forearc and subducting slab are generally characterized by low attenuation (Qp > 1000). Crust and mantle beneath the magmatic arc show elevated attenuation. The strongest anomaly of extremely low Qp is found in the crust between 22° and 23°S beneath the recent volcanic arc (Qp < 100). N-S variations can be observed: The western flank of the crustal attenuation anomaly follows the curved course of the volcanic front. North of 21°S the attenuation is less developed. In the northern part of the study area the low-Qp zone penetrates in the forearc mantle down to the subducting slab. In the south a deeper zone of high attenuation is resolved between 23° and 24°S directly above the subducting slab. Low Qp in the mantle correlates with earthquake clusters. The strong crustal attenuation is confined to the distribution of young ignimbrites and silicic volcanism and is interpreted as a thermally weakened zone with partial melts. The attenuation pattern in the upper mantle might reflect the variable extent of the asthenosphere and maps variations of subduction-related hydration processes in the mantle wedge from slab-derived fluids.

The Human Space Life Sciences Critical Path Roadmap Project: A Strategy for Human Space Flight through Exploration-Class Missions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sawin, Charles F.

1999-01-01

The product of the critical path roadmap project is an integrated strategy for mitigating the risks associated with human exploration class missions. It is an evolving process that will assure the ability to communicate the integrated critical path roadmap. Unlike previous reports, this one will not sit on a shelf - it has the full support of the JSC Space and Life Sciences Directorate (SA) and is already being used as a decision making tool (e.g., budget and investigation planning for Shuttle and Space Station mission). Utility of this product depends on many efforts, namely: providing the required information (completed risk data sheets, critical question information, technology data). It is essential to communicate the results of the critical path roadmap to the scientific community - this meeting is a good opportunity to do so. The web site envisioned for the critical path roadmap will provide the capability to communicate to a broader community and to track and update the system routinely.

Development of a new integrated local trajectory planning and tracking control framework for autonomous ground vehicles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Xiaohui; Sun, Zhenping; Cao, Dongpu; Liu, Daxue; He, Hangen

2017-03-01

This study proposes a novel integrated local trajectory planning and tracking control (ILTPTC) framework for autonomous vehicles driving along a reference path with obstacles avoidance. For this ILTPTC framework, an efficient state-space sampling-based trajectory planning scheme is employed to smoothly follow the reference path. A model-based predictive path generation algorithm is applied to produce a set of smooth and kinematically-feasible paths connecting the initial state with the sampling terminal states. A velocity control law is then designed to assign a speed value at each of the points along the generated paths. An objective function considering both safety and comfort performance is carefully formulated for assessing the generated trajectories and selecting the optimal one. For accurately tracking the optimal trajectory while overcoming external disturbances and model uncertainties, a combined feedforward and feedback controller is developed. Both simulation analyses and vehicle testing are performed to verify the effectiveness of the proposed ILTPTC framework, and future research is also briefly discussed.

Seismic velocity and attenuation structures in the Earth's inner core

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Wen-Che

2007-12-01

I study seismic velocity and attenuation structures in the top 400 km of the Earth's inner core along equatorial paths, velocity-attenuation relationship, and seismic anisotropy in the top of the inner core beneath Africa. Seismic observations exhibit "east-west" hemispheric differences in seismic velocity, attenuation, and anisotropy. Joint modeling of the PKiKP-PKIKP and PKPbc-PKIKP phases is used to constrain seismic velocity and attenuation structures in the top 400 km of the inner core for the eastern and western hemispheres. The velocity and attenuation models for the western hemisphere are simple, having a constant velocity gradient and a Q value of 600 in the top 400 km of the inner core. The velocity and attenuation models for the eastern hemisphere appear complex. The velocity model for the eastern hemisphere has a small velocity gradient in the top 235 km, a steeper velocity gradient at the depth range of 235 - 375 km, and a gradient similar to PREM in the deeper portion of the inner core. The attenuation model for the eastern hemisphere has a Q value of 300 in the top 300 km and a Q value of 600 in the deeper portion of the inner core. The study of velocity-attenuation relationship reveals that inner core is anisotropic in both velocity and attenuation, and the direction of high attenuation corresponding to that of high velocity. I hypothesize that the hexagonal close packed (hcp) iron crystal is anisotropic in attenuation, with the axis of high attenuation corresponding to that of high velocity. Anisotropy in the top of the inner core beneath Africa is complex. Beneath eastern Africa, the thickness of the isotropic upper inner core is about 0 km. Beneath central and western Africa, the thickness of the isotropic upper inner core increases from 20 to 50 km. The velocity increase across the isotropic upper inner core and anisotropic lower inner core boundary is sharp, laterally varying from 1.6% - 2.2%. The attenuation model has a Q value of 600 for the isotropic upper inner core and 150 to 400 for the anisotropic lower inner core.

From conformal blocks to path integrals in the Vaidya geometry

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

Anous, Tarek; Hartman, Thomas; Rovai, Antonin

Correlators in conformal field theory are naturally organized as a sum over conformal blocks. In holographic theories, this sum must reorganize into a path integral over bulk fields and geometries. We explore how these two sums are related in the case of a point particle moving in the background of a 3d collapsing black hole. The conformal block expansion is recast as a sum over paths of the first-quantized particle moving in the bulk geometry. Off-shell worldlines of the particle correspond to subdominant contributions in the Euclidean conformal block expansion, but these same operators must be included in order tomore » correctly reproduce complex saddles in the Lorentzian theory. During thermalization, a complex saddle dominates under certain circumstances; in this case, the CFT correlator is not given by the Virasoro identity block in any channel, but can be recovered by summing heavy operators. This effectively converts the conformal block expansion in CFT from a sum over intermediate states to a sum over channels that mimics the bulk path integral.« less

Integration of polarization-multiplexing and phase-shifting in nanometric two dimensional self-mixing measurement.

PubMed

Tao, Yufeng; Xia, Wei; Wang, Ming; Guo, Dongmei; Hao, Hui

2017-02-06

Integration of phase manipulation and polarization multiplexing was introduced to self-mixing interferometry (SMI) for high-sensitive measurement. Light polarizations were used to increase measuring path number and predict manifold merits for potential applications. Laser source was studied as a microwave-photonic resonator optically-injected by double reflected lights on a two-feedback-factor analytical model. Independent external paths exploited magnesium-oxide doped lithium niobate crystals at perpendicular polarizations to transfer interferometric phases into amplitudes of harmonics. Theoretical resolutions reached angstrom level. By integrating two techniques, this SMI outperformed the conventional single-path SMIs by simultaneous dual-targets measurement on single laser tube with high sensitivity and low speckle noise. In experimental demonstration, by nonlinear filtering method, a custom-made phase-resolved algorithm real-time figured out instantaneous two-dimensional displacements with nanometer resolution. Experimental comparisons to lock-in technique and a commercial Ploytec-5000 laser Doppler velocity meter validated this two-path SMI in micron range without optical cross-talk. Moreover, accuracy subjected to slewing rates of crystals could be flexibly adjusted.

From conformal blocks to path integrals in the Vaidya geometry

DOE PAGES

Anous, Tarek; Hartman, Thomas; Rovai, Antonin; ...

2017-09-04

Correlators in conformal field theory are naturally organized as a sum over conformal blocks. In holographic theories, this sum must reorganize into a path integral over bulk fields and geometries. We explore how these two sums are related in the case of a point particle moving in the background of a 3d collapsing black hole. The conformal block expansion is recast as a sum over paths of the first-quantized particle moving in the bulk geometry. Off-shell worldlines of the particle correspond to subdominant contributions in the Euclidean conformal block expansion, but these same operators must be included in order tomore » correctly reproduce complex saddles in the Lorentzian theory. During thermalization, a complex saddle dominates under certain circumstances; in this case, the CFT correlator is not given by the Virasoro identity block in any channel, but can be recovered by summing heavy operators. This effectively converts the conformal block expansion in CFT from a sum over intermediate states to a sum over channels that mimics the bulk path integral.« less

Assessing Receiving Water Quality Impacts due to Flow Path Alteration in Residential Catchments, using the Stormwater and Wastewater Management Model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wolosoff, S. E.; Duncan, J.; Endreny, T.

2001-05-01

The Croton water supply system, responsible for supplying approximately 10% of New York City's water, provides an opportunity for exploration into the impacts of significant terrestrial flow path alteration upon receiving water quality. Natural flow paths are altered during residential development in order to allow for construction at a given location, reductions in water table elevation in low lying areas and to provide drainage of increased overland flow volumes. Runoff conducted through an artificial drainage system, is prevented from being attenuated by the natural environment, thus the pollutant removal capacity inherent in most natural catchments is often limited to areas where flow paths are not altered by development. By contrasting the impacts of flow path alterations in two small catchments in the Croton system, with different densities of residential development, we can begin to identify appropriate limits to the re-routing of runoff in catchments draining into surface water supplies. The Stormwater and Wastewater Management Model (SWMM) will be used as a tool to predict the runoff quantity and quality generated from two small residential catchments and to simulate the potential benefits of changes to the existing drainage system design, which may improve water quality due to longer residence times.

Integration of Hierarchical Goal Network Planning and Autonomous Path Planning

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-03-01

Conference on Robotics and Automation (ICRA); 2010 May 3– 7; Anchorage, AK. p. 2902–2908. 4. Ayan NF, Kuter U, Yaman F, Goldman RP. Hotride...DISTRIBUTION/AVAILABILITY STATEMENT Approved for public release; distribution unlimited. 13. SUPPLEMENTARY NOTES 14. ABSTRACT Automated planning has...world robotic systems. This report documents work to integrate a hierarchical goal network planning algorithm with low-level path planning. The system

Batalin-Vilkovisky quantization and generalizations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bering, Klaus

Gauge theories play an important role in modern physics. Whenever a gauge symmetry is present, one should provide for a manifestly gauge independent formalism. It turns out that the BRST symmetry plays a prominent part in providing the gauge independence. The importance of gauge independence in the Hamiltonian Batalin-Fradkin-Fradkina- Vilkovisky formalism and in the Lagrangian Batalin- Vilkovisky formalism is stressed. Parallels are drawn between the various theories. A Hamiltonian path integral that takes into account quantum ordering effects arising in the operator formalism, should be written with the help of the star- multiplication or the Moyal bracket. It is generally believed, that this leads to higher order quantum corrections in the corresponding Lagrangian path integral. A higher order Lagrangian path integral based on a nilpotent higher order odd Laplacian is proposed. A new gauge independence mechanism that adapts to the higher order formalism, and that by-passes the problem of constructing a BRST transformation of the path integral in the higher order case, is developed. The new gauge mechanism is closely related to the cohomology of the odd Laplacian operator. Various cohomology aspects of the odd Laplacian are investigated. Whereas for instance the role of the ghost-cohomology properties of the BFV-BRST charge has been emphasized by several authors, the cohomology of the odd Laplacian are in general not well known.

Integrating cell on chip—Novel waveguide platform employing ultra-long optical paths

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fohrmann, Lena Simone; Sommer, Gerrit; Pitruzzello, Giampaolo; Krauss, Thomas F.; Petrov, Alexander Yu.; Eich, Manfred

2017-09-01

Optical waveguides are the most fundamental building blocks of integrated optical circuits. They are extremely well understood, yet there is still room for surprises. Here, we introduce a novel 2D waveguide platform which affords a strong interaction of the evanescent tail of a guided optical wave with an external medium while only employing a very small geometrical footprint. The key feature of the platform is its ability to integrate the ultra-long path lengths by combining low propagation losses in a silicon slab with multiple reflections of the guided wave from photonic crystal (PhC) mirrors. With a reflectivity of 99.1% of our tailored PhC-mirrors, we achieve interaction paths of 25 cm within an area of less than 10 mm2. This corresponds to 0.17 dB/cm effective propagation which is much lower than the state-of-the-art loss of approximately 1 dB/cm of single mode silicon channel waveguides. In contrast to conventional waveguides, our 2D-approach leads to a decay of the guided wave power only inversely proportional to the optical path length. This entirely different characteristic is the major advantage of the 2D integrating cell waveguide platform over the conventional channel waveguide concepts that obey the Beer-Lambert law.

IT Workforce: Key Practices Help Ensure Strong Integrated Program Teams; Selected Departments Need to Assess Skill Gaps

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-11-01

personnel, career paths for program managers, plans to strengthen program management, and use of special hiring authorities) Monitor and report...agencies with direct hiring authority for program managers and directed OPM to create a specialized career path. OMB also tasked agencies with...guidance for developing career paths for IT program managers.14 OPM’s career path guide was to build upon its IT Program Management Competency Model

[Fast determination of induction period of motor gasoline using Fourier transform attenuated total reflection infrared spectroscopy].

PubMed

Liu, Ya-Fei; Yuan, Hong-Fu; Song, Chun-Feng; Xie, Jin-Chun; Li, Xiao-Yu; Yan, De-Lin

2014-11-01

A new method is proposed for the fast determination of the induction period of gasoline using Fourier transform attenuated total reflection infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR). A dedicated analysis system with the function of spectral measurement, data processing, display and storage was designed and integrated using a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer module and chemometric software. The sample presentation accessory designed which has advantages of constant optical path, convenient sample injection and cleaning is composed of a nine times reflection attenuated total reflectance (ATR) crystal of zinc selenide (ZnSe) coated with a diamond film and a stainless steel lid with sealing device. The influence of spectral scanning number and repeated sample loading times on the spectral signal-to-noise ratio was studied. The optimum spectral scanning number is 15 times and the optimum sample loading number is 4 times. Sixty four different gasoline samples were collected from the Beijing-Tianjin area and the induction period values were determined as reference data by standard method GB/T 8018-87. The infrared spectra of these samples were collected in the operating condition mentioned above using the dedicated fast analysis system. Spectra were pretreated using mean centering and 1st derivative to reduce the influence of spectral noise and baseline shift A PLS calibration model for the induction period was established by correlating the known induction period values of the samples with their spectra. The correlation coefficient (R2), standard error of calibration (SEC) and standard error of prediction (SEP) of the model are 0.897, 68.3 and 91.9 minutes, respectively. The relative deviation of the model for gasoline induction period prediction is less than 5%, which meets the requirements of repeatability tolerance in GB method. The new method is simple and fast. It takes no more than 3 minutes to detect one sample. Therefore, the method is feasible for implementing fast determination of gasoline induction period, and of a positive meaning in the evaluation of fuel quality.

The thin hot plume beneath Iceland

USGS Publications Warehouse

Allen, R.M.; Nolet, G.; Morgan, W.J.; Vogfjord, K.; Bergsson, B.H.; Erlendsson, P.; Foulger, G.R.; Jakobsdottir, S.; Julian, B.R.; Pritchard, M.; Ragnarsson, S.; Stefansson, R.

1999-01-01

We present the results of a seismological investigation of the frequency-dependent amplitude variations across Iceland using data from the HOTSPOT array currently deployed there. The array is composed of 30 broad-band PASSCAL instruments. We use the parameter t(*), defined in the usual manner from spectral ratios (Halderman and Davis 1991), to compare observed S-wave amplitude variations with those predicted due to both anelastic attenuation and diffraction effects. Four teleseismic events at a range of azimuths are used to measure t(*). A 2-D vertical cylindrical plume model with a Gaussian-shaped velocity anomaly is used to model the variations. That part of t(*) caused by attenuation was estimated by tracing a ray through IASP91, then superimposing our plume model velocity anomaly and calculating the path integral of 1/vQ. That part of t(*) caused by diffraction was estimated using a 2-D finite difference code to generate synthetic seismograms. The same spectral ratio technique used for the data was then used to extract a predicted t(*). The t(*) variations caused by anelastic attenuation are unable to account for the variations we observe, but those caused by diffraction do. We calculate the t(*) variations caused by diffraction for different plume models and obtain our best-fit plume, which exhibits good agreement between the observed and measured t(*). The best-fit plume model has a maximum S-velocity anomaly of - 12 per cent and falls to 1/e of its maximum at 100 km from the plume centre. This is narrower than previous estimates from seismic tomography, which are broadened and damped by the methods of tomography. This velocity model would suggest greater ray theoretical traveltime delays than observed. However, we find that for such a plume, wave-front healing effects at frequencies of 0.03-0.175 Hz (the frequency range used to pick S-wave arrivals) causes a 40 per cent reduction in traveltime delay, reducing the ray theoretical delay to that observed.

Infrared cloud imaging in support of Earth-space optical communication.

PubMed

Nugent, Paul W; Shaw, Joseph A; Piazzolla, Sabino

2009-05-11

The increasing need for high data return from near-Earth and deep-space missions is driving a demand for the establishment of Earth-space optical communication links. These links will require a nearly obstruction-free path to the communication platform, so there is a need to measure spatial and temporal statistics of clouds at potential ground-station sites. A technique is described that uses a ground-based thermal infrared imager to provide continuous day-night cloud detection and classification according to the cloud optical depth and potential communication channel attenuation. The benefit of retrieving cloud optical depth and corresponding attenuation is illustrated through measurements that identify cloudy times when optical communication may still be possible through thin clouds.

Common path point diffraction interferometer using liquid crystal phase shifting

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mercer, Carolyn R. (Inventor)

1997-01-01

A common path point diffraction interferometer uses dyed, parallel nematic liquid crystals which surround an optically transparent microsphere. Coherent, collimated and polarized light is focused on the microsphere at a diameter larger than that of the microsphere. A portion of the focused light passes through the microsphere to form a spherical wavefront reference beam and the rest of the light is attenuated by the dyed liquid crystals to form an object beam. The two beams form an interferogram which is imaged by a lens onto an electronic array sensor and into a computer which determines the wavefront of the object beam. The computer phase shifts the interferogram by stepping up an AC voltage applied across the liquid crystals without affecting the reference beam.

Arc-evaporated carbon films: optical properties and electron mean free paths

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

Williams, M.W.; Arakawa, E.T.; Dolfini, S.M.

1984-01-01

This paper describes briefly a method which can be used to calculate inelastic mean free paths for electrons with energies in the range of interest for the interpretation of surface phenomena. This method requires a knowledge of the optical properties of the material for the photon energies associated with the oscillator strength of the valence electrons. However, in general it is easier to obtain accurate values of the required properties than it is to measure the electron attenuation lengths in the energy region of interest. This technique, demonstrated here for arc-evaporated carbon, can be used for any material for whichmore » the optical properties can be measured over essentially the whole energy range corresponding to the valence electron response.« less

Modeling of the attenuation of stress waves in concrete based on the Rayleigh damping model using time-reversal and PZT transducers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tian, Zhen; Huo, Linsheng; Gao, Weihang; Li, Hongnan; Song, Gangbing

2017-10-01

Wave-based concrete structural health monitoring has attracted much attention. A stress wave experiences significant attenuation in concrete, however there is a lack of a unified method for predicting the attenuation coefficient of the stress wave. In this paper, a simple and effective absorption attenuation model of stress waves in concrete is developed based on the Rayleigh damping model, which indicates that the absorption attenuation coefficient of stress waves in concrete is directly proportional to the square of the stress wave frequency when the damping ratio is small. In order to verify the theoretical model, related experiments were carried out. During the experiments, a concrete beam was designed in which the d33-model piezoelectric smart aggregates were embedded to detect the propagation of stress waves. It is difficult to distinguish direct stress waves due to the complex propagation paths and the reflection and scattering of stress waves in concrete. Hence, as another innovation of this paper, a new method for computing the absorption attenuation coefficient based on the time-reversal method is developed. Due to the self-adaptive focusing properties of the time-reversal method, the time-reversed stress wave focuses and generates a peak value. The time-reversal method eliminates the adverse effects of multipaths, reflection, and scattering. The absorption attenuation coefficient is computed by analyzing the peak value changes of the time-reversal focused signal. Finally, the experimental results are found to be in good agreement with the theoretical model.

Seismic‐wave attenuation determined from tectonic tremor in multiple subduction zones

USGS Publications Warehouse

Yabe, Suguru; Baltay, Annemarie S.; Ide, Satoshi; Beroza, Gregory C.

2014-01-01

Tectonic tremor provides a new source of observations that can be used to constrain the seismic attenuation parameter for ground‐motion prediction and hazard mapping. Traditionally, recorded earthquakes of magnitude ∼3–8 are used to develop ground‐motion prediction equations; however, typical earthquake records may be sparse in areas of high hazard. In this study, we constrain the distance decay of seismic waves using measurements of the amplitude decay of tectonic tremor, which is plentiful in some regions. Tectonic tremor occurs in the frequency band of interest for ground‐motion prediction (i.e., ∼2–8  Hz) and is located on the subducting plate interface, at the lower boundary of where future large earthquakes are expected. We empirically fit the distance decay of peak ground velocity from tremor to determine the attenuation parameter in four subduction zones: Nankai, Japan; Cascadia, United States–Canada; Jalisco, Mexico; and southern Chile. With the large amount of data available from tremor, we show that in the upper plate, the lower crust is less attenuating than the upper crust. We apply the same analysis to intraslab events in Nankai and show the possibility that waves traveling from deeper intraslab events experience more attenuation than those from the shallower tremor due to ray paths that pass through the subducting and highly attenuating oceanic crust. This suggests that high pore‐fluid pressure is present in the tremor source region. These differences imply that the attenuation parameter determined from intraslab earthquakes may underestimate ground motion for future large earthquakes on the plate interface.

General Path-Integral Successive-Collision Solution of the Bounded Dynamic Multi-Swarm Problem.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-09-23

coefficients (i.e., moments of the distribution functions), and/or (il) fnding the distribution functions themselves. The present work is concerned with the...collisions since their first appearance in the system. By definition, a swarm particle sufers a *generalized collision" either when it collides with a...studies6-rand the present work have contributed to- wards making the path-integral successive-collision method a practicable tool of transport theory

Spin foam models for quantum gravity from lattice path integrals

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

Bonzom, Valentin

2009-09-15

Spin foam models for quantum gravity are derived from lattice path integrals. The setting involves variables from both lattice BF theory and Regge calculus. The action consists in a Regge action, which depends on areas, dihedral angles and includes the Immirzi parameter. In addition, a measure is inserted to ensure a consistent gluing of simplices, so that the amplitude is dominated by configurations that satisfy the parallel transport relations. We explicitly compute the path integral as a sum over spin foams for a generic measure. The Freidel-Krasnov and Engle-Pereira-Rovelli models correspond to a special choice of gluing. In this case,more » the equations of motion describe genuine geometries, where the constraints of area-angle Regge calculus are satisfied. Furthermore, the Immirzi parameter drops out of the on-shell action, and stationarity with respect to area variations requires spacetime geometry to be flat.« less

Qualitative Evaluation of Project P.A.T.H.S.: An Integration of Findings Based on Program Participants

PubMed Central

Shek, Daniel T. L.; Sun, Rachel C. F.

2012-01-01

An integration of the qualitative evaluation findings collected in different cohorts of students who participated in Project P.A.T.H.S. (Positive Adolescent Training through Holistic Social Programmes) (n = 252 students in 29 focus groups) was carried out. With specific focus on how the informants described the program, results showed that the descriptions were mainly positive in nature, suggesting that the program was well received by the program participants. When the informants were invited to name three metaphors that could stand for the program, positive metaphors were commonly used. Beneficial effects of the program in different psychosocial domains were also voiced by the program participants. The qualitative findings integrated in this paper provide further support for the effectiveness of the Tier 1 Program of Project P.A.T.H.S. in promoting holistic development in Chinese adolescents in Hong Kong. PMID:22666134

Elastic constants of hcp 4He: Path-integral Monte Carlo results versus experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ardila, Luis Aldemar Peña; Vitiello, Silvio A.; de Koning, Maurice

2011-09-01

The elastic constants of hcp 4He are computed using the path-integral Monte Carlo (PIMC) method. The stiffness coefficients are obtained by imposing different distortions to a periodic cell containing 180 atoms, followed by measurement of the elements of the corresponding stress tensor. For this purpose an appropriate path-integral expression for the stress tensor observable is derived and implemented into the pimc++ package. In addition to allowing the determination of the elastic stiffness constants, this development also opens the way to an explicit atomistic determination of the Peierls stress for dislocation motion using the PIMC technique. A comparison of the results to available experimental data shows an overall good agreement of the density dependence of the elastic constants, with the single exception of C13. Additional calculations for the bcc phase, on the other hand, show good agreement for all elastic constants.

An accurate European option pricing model under Fractional Stable Process based on Feynman Path Integral

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Chao; Ma, Qinghua; Yao, Haixiang; Hou, Tiancheng

2018-03-01

In this paper, we propose to use the Fractional Stable Process (FSP) for option pricing. The FSP is one of the few candidates to directly model a number of desired empirical properties of asset price risk neutral dynamics. However, pricing the vanilla European option under FSP is difficult and problematic. In the paper, built upon the developed Feynman Path Integral inspired techniques, we present a novel computational model for option pricing, i.e. the Fractional Stable Process Path Integral (FSPPI) model under a general fractional stable distribution that tackles this problem. Numerical and empirical experiments show that the proposed pricing model provides a correction of the Black-Scholes pricing error - overpricing long term options, underpricing short term options; overpricing out-of-the-money options, underpricing in-the-money options without any additional structures such as stochastic volatility and a jump process.

High-density amorphous ice: A path-integral simulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Herrero, Carlos P.; Ramírez, Rafael

2012-09-01

Structural and thermodynamic properties of high-density amorphous (HDA) ice have been studied by path-integral molecular dynamics simulations in the isothermal-isobaric ensemble. Interatomic interactions were modeled by using the effective q-TIP4P/F potential for flexible water. Quantum nuclear motion is found to affect several observable properties of the amorphous solid. At low temperature (T = 50 K) the molar volume of HDA ice is found to increase by 6%, and the intramolecular O-H distance rises by 1.4% due to quantum motion. Peaks in the radial distribution function of HDA ice are broadened with respect to their classical expectancy. The bulk modulus, B, is found to rise linearly with the pressure, with a slope ∂B/∂P = 7.1. Our results are compared with those derived earlier from classical and path-integral simulations of HDA ice. We discuss similarities and discrepancies with those earlier simulations.

ER = EPR and non-perturbative action integrals for quantum gravity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alsaleh, Salwa; Alasfar, Lina

In this paper, we construct and calculate non-perturbative path integrals in a multiply-connected spacetime. This is done by summing over homotopy classes of paths. The topology of the spacetime is defined by Einstein-Rosen bridges (ERB) forming from the entanglement of quantum foam described by virtual black holes. As these “bubbles” are entangled, they are connected by Planckian ERBs because of the ER = EPR conjecture. Hence, the spacetime will possess a large first Betti number B1. For any compact 2-surface in the spacetime, the topology (in particular the homotopy) of that surface is non-trivial due to the large number of Planckian ERBs that define homotopy through this surface. The quantization of spacetime with this topology — along with the proper choice of the 2-surfaces — is conjectured to allow non-perturbative path integrals of quantum gravity theory over the spacetime manifold.

Integrated PET/MR breast cancer imaging: Attenuation correction and implementation of a 16-channel RF coil

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

Oehmigen, Mark, E-mail: mark.oehmigen@uni-due.de

Purpose: This study aims to develop, implement, and evaluate a 16-channel radiofrequency (RF) coil for integrated positron emission tomography/magnetic resonance (PET/MR) imaging of breast cancer. The RF coil is designed for optimized MR imaging performance and PET transparency and attenuation correction (AC) is applied for accurate PET quantification. Methods: A 16-channel breast array RF coil was designed for integrated PET/MR hybrid imaging of breast cancer lesions. The RF coil features a lightweight rigid design and is positioned with a spacer at a defined position on the patient table of an integrated PET/MR system. Attenuation correction is performed by generating andmore » applying a dedicated 3D CT-based template attenuation map. Reposition accuracy of the RF coil on the system patient table while using the positioning frame was tested in repeated measurements using MR-visible markers. The MR, PET, and PET/MR imaging performances were systematically evaluated using modular breast phantoms. Attenuation correction of the RF coil was evaluated with difference measurements of the active breast phantoms filled with radiotracer in the PET detector with and without the RF coil in place, serving as a standard of reference measurement. The overall PET/MR imaging performance and PET quantification accuracy of the new 16-channel RF coil and its AC were then evaluated in first clinical examinations on ten patients with local breast cancer. Results: The RF breast array coil provides excellent signal-to-noise ratio and signal homogeneity across the volume of the breast phantoms in MR imaging and visualizes small structures in the phantoms down to 0.4 mm in plane. Difference measurements with PET revealed a global loss and thus attenuation of counts by 13% (mean value across the whole phantom volume) when the RF coil is placed in the PET detector. Local attenuation ranging from 0% in the middle of the phantoms up to 24% was detected in the peripheral regions of the phantoms at positions closer to attenuating hardware structures of the RF coil. The position accuracy of the RF coil on the patient table when using the positioning frame was determined well below 1 mm for all three spatial dimensions. This ensures perfect position match between the RF coil and its three-dimensional attenuation template during the PET data reconstruction process. When applying the CT-based AC of the RF coil, the global attenuation bias was mostly compensated to ±0.5% across the entire breast imaging volume. The patient study revealed high quality MR, PET, and combined PET/MR imaging of breast cancer. Quantitative activity measurements in all 11 breast cancer lesions of the ten patients resulted in increased mean difference values of SUV{sub max} 11.8% (minimum 3.2%; maximum 23.2%) between nonAC images and images when AC of the RF breast coil was applied. This supports the quantitative results of the phantom study as well as successful attenuation correction of the RF coil. Conclusions: A 16-channel breast RF coil was designed for optimized MR imaging performance and PET transparency and was successfully integrated with its dedicated attenuation correction template into a whole-body PET/MR system. Systematic PET/MR imaging evaluation with phantoms and an initial study on patients with breast cancer provided excellent MR and PET image quality and accurate PET quantification.« less

Nano-stepper-driven optical shutter for applications in free-space micro-optics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zawadzka, Justyna; Li, Lijie; Unamuno, Anartz; Uttamchandani, Deepak G.

2002-09-01

In this paper we report a simple design of a micro-optical shutter/attenuator. The standard MUMPS process was used to fabricate the device. A vertically erected, gold-coated, 200x300 mm side length micro-mirror was precisely placed between the end faces of two closely spaced optical fibers. The position of the micro-mirror with respect to the optical fiber end face was controlled by a nano-stepping motor array. Optical and mechanical tests were performed on the device. A 1.55 mm laser beam was sent along the optical fiber. When the micro-mirror was removed from the front of the fiber, the coupling efficiency between two fibers was -10 dBm. Once the micro-mirror was placed in the optical path the coupling efficiency dropped to -51.5 dBm. The best attenuation was obtained when the micro-mirror blocked the whole cross-section of the laser beam diameter. It is evident that the device can operate as a high precision fiber optic attenuator or shutter.

In Vitro Validation of an Artefact Suppression Algorithm in X-Ray Phase-Contrast Computed Tomography.

PubMed

Sunaguchi, Naoki; Yuasa, Tetsuya; Hirano, Shin-Ichi; Gupta, Rajiv; Ando, Masami

2015-01-01

X-ray phase-contrast tomography can significantly increase the contrast-resolution of conventional attenuation-contrast imaging, especially for soft-tissue structures that have very similar attenuation. Just as in attenuation-based tomography, phase contrast tomography requires a linear dependence of aggregate beam direction on the incremental direction alteration caused by individual voxels along the path of the X-ray beam. Dense objects such as calcifications in biological specimens violate this condition. There are extensive beam deflection artefacts in the vicinity of such structures because they result in large distortion of wave front due to the large difference of refractive index; for such large changes in beam direction, the transmittance of the silicon analyzer crystal saturates and is no longer linearly dependent on the angle of refraction. This paper describes a method by which these effects can be overcome and excellent soft-tissue contrast of phase tomography can be preserved in the vicinity of such artefact-producing structures.

Cartographic modeling of snow avalanche path location within Glacier National Park, Montana

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Walsh, Stephen J.; Brown, Daniel G.; Bian, Ling; Butler, David R.

1990-01-01

Geographic information system (GIS) techniques were applied to the study of snow-avalanche path location within Glacier National Park, Montana. Aerial photointerpretation and field surveys confirmed the location of 121 avalanche paths within the selected study area. Spatial and nonspatial information on each path were integrated using the ARC/INFO GIS. Lithologic, structural, hydrographic, topographic, and land-cover impacts on path location were analyzed. All path frequencies within variable classes were normalized by the area of class occurrence relative to the total area of the study area and were added to the morphometric information contained within INFO tables. The normalized values for each GIS coverage were used to cartographically model, by means of composite factor weightings, avalanche path locations.

A novel cost-effective parallel narrowband ANC system with local secondary-path estimation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Delegà, Riccardo; Bernasconi, Giancarlo; Piroddi, Luigi

2017-08-01

Many noise reduction applications are targeted at multi-tonal disturbances. Active noise control (ANC) solutions for such problems are generally based on the combination of multiple adaptive notch filters. Both the performance and the computational cost are negatively affected by an increase in the number of controlled frequencies. In this work we study a different modeling approach for the secondary path, based on the estimation of various small local models in adjacent frequency subbands, that greatly reduces the impact of reference-filtering operations in the ANC algorithm. Furthermore, in combination with a frequency-specific step size tuning method it provides a balanced attenuation performance over the whole controlled frequency range (and particularly in the high end of the range). Finally, the use of small local models is greatly beneficial for the reactivity of the online secondary path modeling algorithm when the characteristics of the acoustic channels are time-varying. Several simulations are provided to illustrate the positive features of the proposed method compared to other well-known techniques.

Stereo Image Dense Matching by Integrating Sift and Sgm Algorithm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Y.; Song, Y.; Lu, J.

2018-05-01

Semi-global matching(SGM) performs the dynamic programming by treating the different path directions equally. It does not consider the impact of different path directions on cost aggregation, and with the expansion of the disparity search range, the accuracy and efficiency of the algorithm drastically decrease. This paper presents a dense matching algorithm by integrating SIFT and SGM. It takes the successful matching pairs matched by SIFT as control points to direct the path in dynamic programming with truncating error propagation. Besides, matching accuracy can be improved by using the gradient direction of the detected feature points to modify the weights of the paths in different directions. The experimental results based on Middlebury stereo data sets and CE-3 lunar data sets demonstrate that the proposed algorithm can effectively cut off the error propagation, reduce disparity search range and improve matching accuracy.

Velocity and Attenuation Structure of the Earth's Inner Core Boundary From Semi-Automatic Waveform Modeling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jin, J.; Song, X.; Sun, D.; Helmberger, D. V.

2013-12-01

The structure of the Earth's inner core boundary (ICB) is complex. Hemispherical differences and local variations of velocity and attenuation structures, as well as the ICB topography have been reported in previous studies. We are using an automatic waveform modeling method to improve the resolution of the ICB structures. The full waveforms of triplicated PKP phases at distance ranges from 120 to 165 degrees are used to model the lowermost 200 km of the outer core and the uppermost 600km of the inner core. Given a 1D velocity and attenuation model, synthetic seismograms are generated by Generalized Ray Theory. We are also experimenting 2D synthetic methods (WKM, AXISEM, and 2D FD) for 2D models (in the mantle and the inner core). The source time function is determined by observed seismic data. We use neighborhood algorithm to search for a group of models that minimize the misfit between predictions and observations. Tests on synthetic data show the efficiency of this method in resolving detailed velocity and attenuation structures of the ICB simultaneously. We are analyzing seismic record sections at dense arrays along different paths and will report our modeling and inversion results in the meeting.

In vitro study of near-wall flow in a cerebral aneurysm model with and without coils.

PubMed

Goubergrits, L; Thamsen, B; Berthe, A; Poethke, J; Kertzscher, U; Affeld, K; Petz, C; Hege, H-C; Hoch, H; Spuler, A

2010-09-01

Coil embolization procedures change the flow conditions in the cerebral aneurysm and, therefore, in the near-wall region. Knowledge of these flow changes may be helpful to optimize therapy. The goal of this study was to investigate the effect of the coil-packing attenuation on the near-wall flow and its variability due to differences in the coil structure. An enlarged transparent model of an ACA aneurysm was fabricated on the basis of CT angiography. The near-wall flow was visualized by using a recently proposed technique called Wall-PIV. Coil-packing attenuation of 10%, 15%, and 20% were investigated and compared with an aneurysmal flow without coils. Then the flow variability due to the coil introduction was analyzed in 10 experiments by using a packing attenuation of 15%. A small packing attenuation of 10% already alters the near-wall flow significantly in a large part of the aneurysmal sac. These flow changes are characterized by a slow flow with short (interrupted) path lines. An increased packing attenuation expands the wall area exposed to the altered flow conditions. This area, however, depends on the coil position and/or on the 3D coil structure in the aneurysm. To our knowledge, this is the first time the near-wall flow changes caused by coils in an aneurysm model have been visualized. It can be concluded that future hydrodynamic studies of coil therapy should include an investigation of the coil structure in addition to the coil-packing attenuation.

Seismic attenuation and scattering tomography of rock samples using stochastic wavefields: linking seismology, volcanology, and rock physics.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fazio, Marco; De Siena, Luca; Benson, Phillip

2016-04-01

Seismic attenuation and scattering are two attributes that can be linked with porosity and permeability in laboratory experiments. When measuring these two quantities using seismic waveforms recorder at lithospheric and volcanic scales the areas of highest heterogeneity, as batches of melt and zones of high deformation, produce anomalous values of the measured quantities, the seismic quality factor and scattering coefficient. When employed as indicators of heterogeneity and absorption in volcanic areas these anomalous effects become strong indicators of magma accumulation and tectonic boundaries, shaping magmatic chambers and conduit systems. We perform attenuation and scattering measurements and imaging using seismic waveforms produced in laboratory experiments, at frequencies ranging between the kHz and MHz. As attenuation and scattering are measured from the shape of the envelopes, disregarding phases, we are able to connect the observations with the micro fracturing and petrological quantities previously measured on the sample. Connecting the imaging of dry and saturated samples via these novel attributes with the burst of low-period events with increasing saturation and deformation is a challenge. Its solution could plant the seed for better relating attenuation and scattering tomography measurements to the presence of fluids and gas, therefore creating a novel path for reliable porosity and permeability tomography. In particular for volcanoes, being able to relate attenuation/scattering measurements with low-period micro seismicity could deliver new data to settle the debate about if both source and medium can produce seismic resonance.

The Effect of Various Waste Materials’ Contents on the Attenuation Level of Anti-Radiation Shielding Concrete

PubMed Central

Azeez, Ali Basheer; Mohammed, Kahtan S.; Abdullah, Mohd Mustafa Al Bakri; Hussin, Kamarudin; Sandu, Andrei Victor; Razak, Rafiza Abdul

2013-01-01

Samples of concrete contain various waste materials, such as iron particulates, steel balls of used ball bearings and slags from steel industry were assessed for their anti-radiation attenuation coefficient properties. The attenuation measurements were performed using gamma spectrometer of NaI (Tl) detector. The utilized radiation sources comprised 137Cs and 60Co radioactive elements with photon energies of 0.662 MeV for 137Cs and two energy levels of 1.17 and 1.33 MeV for the 60Co. Likewise the mean free paths for the tested samples were obtained. The aim of this work is to investigate the effect of the waste loading rates and the particulate dispersive manner within the concrete matrix on the attenuation coefficients. The maximum linear attenuation coefficient (μ) was attained for concrete incorporates iron filling wastes of 30 wt %. They were of 1.12 ± 1.31×10−3 for 137Cs and 0.92 ± 1.57 × 10−3 for 60Co. Substantial improvement in attenuation performance by 20%–25% was achieved for concrete samples incorporate iron fillings as opposed to that of steel ball samples at different (5%–30%) loading rates. The steel balls and the steel slags gave much inferior values. The microstructure, concrete-metal composite density, the homogeneity and particulate dispersion were examined and evaluated using different metallographic, microscopic and measurement facilities. PMID:28788363

Determination of shielding requirements for mammography.

PubMed

Okunade, Akintunde Akangbe; Ademoroti, Olalekan Albert

2004-05-01

Shielding requirements for mammography when considerations are to be given to attenuation by compression paddle, breast tissue, grid and image receptor (intervening materials) has been investigated. By matching of the attenuation and hardening properties, comparisons are made between shielding afforded by breast tissue materials (water, Lucite and 50%-50% adipose-glandular tissue) and some materials considered for shielding diagnostic x-ray beams, namely lead, steel and gypsum wallboard. Results show that significant differences exist between the thickness required to produce equal attenuation and that required to produce equal hardening of a given incident beam. While attenuation equivalent thickness produces equal exposure, it does not produce equal hardening. For shielding purposes, equivalence in exposure reduction without equivalence in penetrating power of an emerging beam does not amount to equivalence in shielding affordable by two different materials. Presented are models and results of sample calculations of additional shielding requirements apart from that provided by intervening materials. The shielding requirements for the integrated beam emerging from intervening materials are different from those for the integrated beam emerging from materials (lead/steel/gypsum wallboard) with attenuation equivalent thicknesses of these intervening materials.

Infinite non-causality in active cancellation of random noise

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Friot, Emmanuel

2006-03-01

Active cancellation of broadband random noise requires the detection of the incoming noise with some time advance. In an duct for example this advance must be larger than the delays in the secondary path from the control source to the error sensor. In this paper it is shown that, in some cases, the advance required for perfect noise cancellation is theoretically infinite because the inverse of the secondary path, which is required for control, can include an infinite non-causal response. This is shown to be the result of two mechanisms: in the single-channel case (one control source and one error sensor), this can arise because of strong echoes in the control path. In the multi-channel case this can arise even in free field simply because of an unfortunate placing of sensors and actuators. In the present paper optimal feedforward control is derived through analytical and numerical computations, in the time and frequency domains. It is shown that, in practice, the advance required for significant noise attenuation can be much larger than the secondary path delays. Practical rules are also suggested in order to prevent infinite non-causality from appearing.

In Situ Measurement of Sediment Properties and Relationship to Backscatter: An Example From the ONR Mine Burial Program, Martha's Vineyard Coastal Observatory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kraft, B. J.; Mayer, L. A.; Simpkin, P.; Goff, J. A.; Schwab, B.; Jenkins, C.

2002-12-01

In support of the Office of Naval Research­Ýs Mine Burial Program (MBP), in situ acoustic and resistivity measurements were obtained using ISSAP (In situ Sound Speed and Attenuation Probe), a device developed and built by the Center for Coastal and Ocean Mapping. One of the field areas selected for the MBP experiments is the WHOI coastal observatory based off Martha's Vineyard. This area is an active natural laboratory that will provide an ideal environment for testing and observing mine migration and burial patterns due to temporal seabed processes. Seawater and surficial sediment measurements of compressional wave sound speed, attenuation, and resistivity were obtained at 87 station locations. ISSAP used four transducer probes that were arranged in a square pattern giving approximate acoustic path lengths of 30 cm and 20 cm and a maximum insertion depth of 15 cm. The transducers operated at a frequency of 65 kHz. Five acoustic paths were used; two long paths and three short paths. A ~15.4 ŸYs pulse was generated at a repetition rate of 30 Hz. The received signal was combined with the transmitter gate pulse to generate a composite signal that was sampled at a frequency of 5 MHz with a National Instruments PCI-6110E data acquisition board. Two resistivity probes were mounted on the ISSAP platform and positioned in locations selected to limit interference with the acoustic signals. Also mounted on the platform were a color video camera and light, and a Jasco Research UWINSTRU, which measured platform pitch and roll angles, heading, depth, and temperature. At each of the 87 stations, the ISSAP probe was lowered into seawater to a location ~6m above the seafloor. A measurement cycle was completed by transmitting 10 pulses on each of the five paths and repeating three times for a total of 150 measurements. Resistivity measurements were obtained from both probes following completion of the acoustic measurements. The ISSAP platform was then lowered into the seafloor where two acoustic and resistivity measurement cycles were completed in the sediment. Probe insertion was aided by the video signal which provided imagery of the seafloor. The instrument was removed from the sediment and a second seawater measurement cycle completed. Typically, a sequence of measurements (300 acoustic and 40 resistivity measurements in seawater and similarly in sediment) was completed in ~ 4 minutes. Recorded waveforms were processed for sound speed using two methods, cross-correlation and envelope detection. Sediment attenuation was estimated using the filter-correlation method of Courtney and Mayer. In conjunction with the MBP experiments, several surveys (sidescan, interferometric bathymetry, and multibeam) have been completed. The ability to predict quantitative acoustical and physical properties of sediments from remotely measured backscatter data will be examined.

Continuous quantum measurements and the action uncertainty principle

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mensky, Michael B.

1992-09-01

The path-integral approach to quantum theory of continuous measurements has been developed in preceding works of the author. According to this approach the measurement amplitude determining probabilities of different outputs of the measurement can be evaluated in the form of a restricted path integral (a path integral “in finite limits”). With the help of the measurement amplitude, maximum deviation of measurement outputs from the classical one can be easily determined. The aim of the present paper is to express this variance in a simpler and transparent form of a specific uncertainty principle (called the action uncertainty principle, AUP). The most simple (but weak) form of AUP is δ S≳ℏ, where S is the action functional. It can be applied for simple derivation of the Bohr-Rosenfeld inequality for measurability of gravitational field. A stronger (and having wider application) form of AUP (for ideal measurements performed in the quantum regime) is |∫{/' t″ }(δ S[ q]/δ q( t))Δ q( t) dt|≃ℏ, where the paths [ q] and [Δ q] stand correspondingly for the measurement output and for the measurement error. It can also be presented in symbolic form as Δ(Equation) Δ(Path) ≃ ℏ. This means that deviation of the observed (measured) motion from that obeying the classical equation of motion is reciprocally proportional to the uncertainty in a path (the latter uncertainty resulting from the measurement error). The consequence of AUP is that improving the measurement precision beyond the threshold of the quantum regime leads to decreasing information resulting from the measurement.

Atmospheric microwave refractivity and refraction

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yu, E.; Hodge, D. B.

1980-01-01

The atmospheric refractivity can be expressed as a function of temperature, pressure, water vapor content, and operating frequency. Based on twenty-year meteorological data, statistics of the atmospheric refractivity were obtained. These statistics were used to estimate the variation of dispersion, attenuation, and refraction effects on microwave and millimeter wave signals propagating along atmospheric paths. Bending angle, elevation angle error, and range error were also developed for an exponentially tapered, spherical atmosphere.

Concerning the measurement of atmospheric trace gas fluxes with open- and closed-path eddy covariance systems: The density terms and spectral attenuation [Chapter 7

Treesearch

W. J. Massman

2004-01-01

Atmospheric trace gas fluxes measured with an eddy covariance sensor that detects a constituent's density fluctuations within the in situ air need to include terms resulting from concurrent heat and moisture fluxes, the so called 'density' or 'WPL corrections' (Webb et al. 1980). The theory behind these additional terms is well established. But...

A Source Term for Wave Attenuation by Sea Ice in WAVEWATCH III (registered trademark): IC4

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-06-07

by ANSI Std. Z39.18 Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 1 hour per response, including the time for... time . Diamonds indicate active, moored AWACs. Circle indicates location of R/V Sikuliaq. Thick magenta and white lines indicate path of R/V Sikuliaq...past and future ship position, respectively). .................................................................. 15 Figure 10 Time series of

Characterizing the Trade Space Between Capability and Complexity in Next Generation Cloud and Precipitation Observing Systems Using Markov Chain Monte Carlos Techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Z.; Mace, G. G.; Posselt, D. J.

2017-12-01

As we begin to contemplate the next generation atmospheric observing systems, it will be critically important that we are able to make informed decisions regarding the trade space between scientific capability and the need to keep complexity and cost within definable limits. To explore this trade space as it pertains to understanding key cloud and precipitation processes, we are developing a Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) algorithm suite that allows us to arbitrarily define the specifications of candidate observing systems and then explore how the uncertainties in key retrieved geophysical parameters respond to that observing system. MCMC algorithms produce a more complete posterior solution space, and allow for an objective examination of information contained in measurements. In our initial implementation, MCMC experiments are performed to retrieve vertical profiles of cloud and precipitation properties from a spectrum of active and passive measurements collected by aircraft during the ACE Radiation Definition Experiments (RADEX). Focusing on shallow cumulus clouds observed during the Integrated Precipitation and Hydrology EXperiment (IPHEX), observing systems in this study we consider W and Ka-band radar reflectivity, path-integrated attenuation at those frequencies, 31 and 94 GHz brightness temperatures as well as visible and near-infrared reflectance. By varying the sensitivity and uncertainty of these measurements, we quantify the capacity of various combinations of observations to characterize the physical properties of clouds and precipitation.

Natural attenuation of chlorinated volatile organic compounds in a freshwater tidal wetland: Field evidence of anaerobic biodegradation

USGS Publications Warehouse

Lorah, Michelle M.; Olsen, Lisa D.

1999-01-01

Field evidence collected along two groundwater flow paths shows that anaerobic biodegradation naturally attenuates a plume of chlorinated volatile organic compounds as it discharges from an aerobic sand aquifer through wetland sediments. A decrease in concentrations of two parent contaminants, trichloroethylene (TCE) and 1,1,2,2‐tetrachloroethane (PCA), and a concomitant increase in concentrations of anaerobic daughter products occurs along upward flow paths through the wetland sediments. The daughter products 1,2‐dichloroethylene, vinyl chloride, 1,1,2‐trichloroethane, and 1,2‐dichloroethane are produced from hydrogenolysis of TCE and from PCA degradation through hydrogenolysis and dichloroelimination (reductive dechlorination) pathways. Total concentrations of TCE, PCA, and their degradation products, however, decrease to below detection levels within 0.15–0.30 m of land surface. The enhanced reductive dechlorination of TCE and PCA in the wetland sediments is associated with the naturally higher concentrations of dissolved organic carbon and the lower redox state of the groundwater compared to the aquifer. This field study indicates that wetlands and similar organic‐rich environments at groundwater/surface‐water interfaces may be important in intercepting groundwater contaminated with chlorinated organics and in naturally reducing concentrations and toxicity before sensitive surface‐water receptors are reached.

Modelling NDE pulse-echo inspection of misorientated planar rough defects using an elastic finite element method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pettit, J. R.; Walker, A. E.; Lowe, M. J. S.

2015-03-01

Pulse-echo ultrasonic NDE examination of large pressure vessel forgings is a design and construction code requirement in the power generation industry. Such inspections aim to size and characterise potential defects that may have formed during the forging process. Typically these defects have a range of orientations and surface roughnesses which can greatly affect ultrasonic wave scattering behaviour. Ultrasonic modelling techniques can provide insight into defect response and therefore aid in characterisation. However, analytical approaches to solving these scattering problems can become inaccurate, especially when applied to increasingly complex defect geometries. To overcome these limitations a elastic Finite Element (FE) method has been developed to simulate pulse-echo inspections of embedded planar defects. The FE model comprises a significantly reduced spatial domain allowing for a Monte-Carlo based approach to consider multiple realisations of defect orientation and surface roughness. The results confirm that defects aligned perpendicular to the path of beam propagation attenuate ultrasonic signals according to the level of surface roughness. However, for defects orientated away from this plane, surface roughness can increase the magnitude of the scattered component propagating back along the path of the incident beam. This study therefore highlights instances where defect roughness increases the magnitude of ultrasonic scattered signals, as opposed to attenuation which is more often assumed.

Career Paths in Environmental Sciences

EPA Science Inventory

Career paths, current and future, in the environmental sciences will be discussed, based on experiences and observations during the author's 40 + years in the field. An emphasis will be placed on the need for integrated, transdisciplinary systems thinking approaches toward achie...

3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine in Adult Rats Produces Deficits in Path Integration and Spatial Reference Memory

PubMed Central

Able, Jessica A.; Gudelsky, Gary A.; Vorhees, Charles V.; Williams, Michael T.

2010-01-01

Background ±3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is a recreational drug that causes cognitive deficits in humans. A rat model for learning and memory deficits has not been established, although some cognitive deficits have been reported. Methods Male Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with MDMA (15 mg/kg × 4 doses) or saline (SAL) (n = 20/treatment group) and tested in different learning paradigms: 1) path integration in the Cincinnati water maze (CWM), 2) spatial learning in the Morris water maze (MWM), and 3) novel object recognition (NOR). One week after drug administration, testing began in the CWM, then four phases of MWM, and finally NOR. Following behavioral testing, monoamine levels were assessed. Results ±3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine-treated rats committed more CWM errors than did SAL-treated rats. ±3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine-treated animals were further from the former platform position during each 30-second MWM probe trial but showed no differences during learning trials with the platform present. There were no group differences in NOR. ± 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine depleted serotonin in all brain regions and dopamine in the striatum. Conclusions ±3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine produced MWM reference memory deficits even after complex learning in the CWM, where deficits in path integration learning occurred. Assessment of path integration may provide a sensitive index of MDMA-induced learning deficits. PMID:16324685

Quantization of simple parametrized systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ruffini, G.

2005-11-01

I study the canonical formulation and quantization of some simple parametrized systems, including the non-relativistic parametrized particle and the relativistic parametrized particle. Using Dirac's formalism I construct for each case the classical reduced phase space and study the dependence on the gauge fixing used. Two separate features of these systems can make this construction difficult: the actions are not invariant at the boundaries, and the constraints may have disconnected solution spaces. The relativistic particle is affected by both, while the non-relativistic particle displays only by the first. Analyzing the role of canonical transformations in the reduced phase space, I show that a change of gauge fixing is equivalent to a canonical transformation. In the relativistic case, quantization of one branch of the constraint at the time is applied and I analyze the electromagenetic backgrounds in which it is possible to quantize simultaneously both branches and still obtain a covariant unitary quantum theory. To preserve unitarity and space-time covariance, second quantization is needed unless there is no electric field. I motivate a definition of the inner product in all these cases and derive the Klein-Gordon inner product for the relativistic case. I construct phase space path integral representations for amplitudes for the BFV and the Faddeev path integrals, from which the path integrals in coordinate space (Faddeev-Popov and geometric path integrals) are derived.

A path integral approach to the Hodgkin-Huxley model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baravalle, Roman; Rosso, Osvaldo A.; Montani, Fernando

2017-11-01

To understand how single neurons process sensory information, it is necessary to develop suitable stochastic models to describe the response variability of the recorded spike trains. Spikes in a given neuron are produced by the synergistic action of sodium and potassium of the voltage-dependent channels that open or close the gates. Hodgkin and Huxley (HH) equations describe the ionic mechanisms underlying the initiation and propagation of action potentials, through a set of nonlinear ordinary differential equations that approximate the electrical characteristics of the excitable cell. Path integral provides an adequate approach to compute quantities such as transition probabilities, and any stochastic system can be expressed in terms of this methodology. We use the technique of path integrals to determine the analytical solution driven by a non-Gaussian colored noise when considering the HH equations as a stochastic system. The different neuronal dynamics are investigated by estimating the path integral solutions driven by a non-Gaussian colored noise q. More specifically we take into account the correlational structures of the complex neuronal signals not just by estimating the transition probability associated to the Gaussian approach of the stochastic HH equations, but instead considering much more subtle processes accounting for the non-Gaussian noise that could be induced by the surrounding neural network and by feedforward correlations. This allows us to investigate the underlying dynamics of the neural system when different scenarios of noise correlations are considered.

Multi-chord fiber-coupled interferometer with a long coherence length laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Merritt, Elizabeth C.; Lynn, Alan G.; Gilmore, Mark A.; Hsu, Scott C.

2012-03-01

This paper describes a 561 nm laser heterodyne interferometer that provides time-resolved measurements of line-integrated plasma electron density within the range of 1015-1018 cm-2. Such plasmas are produced by railguns on the plasma liner experiment, which aims to produce μs-, cm-, and Mbar-scale plasmas through the merging of 30 plasma jets in a spherically convergent geometry. A long coherence length, 320 mW laser allows for a strong, sub-fringe phase-shift signal without the need for closely matched probe and reference path lengths. Thus, only one reference path is required for all eight probe paths, and an individual probe chord can be altered without altering the reference or other probe path lengths. Fiber-optic decoupling of the probe chord optics on the vacuum chamber from the rest of the system allows the probe paths to be easily altered to focus on different spatial regions of the plasma. We demonstrate that sub-fringe resolution capability allows the interferometer to operate down to line-integrated densities of the order of 5 × 1015 cm-2.

Worldline approach for numerical computation of electromagnetic Casimir energies: Scalar field coupled to magnetodielectric media

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

Mackrory, Jonathan B.; Bhattacharya, Tanmoy; Steck, Daniel A.

Here, we present a worldline method for the calculation of Casimir energies for scalar fields coupled to magnetodielectric media. The scalar model we consider may be applied in arbitrary geometries, and it corresponds exactly to one polarization of the electromagnetic field in planar layered media. Starting from the field theory for electromagnetism, we work with the two decoupled polarizations in planar media and develop worldline path integrals, which represent the two polarizations separately, for computing both Casimir and Casimir-Polder potentials. We then show analytically that the path integrals for the transverse-electric polarization coupled to a dielectric medium converge to themore » proper solutions in certain special cases, including the Casimir-Polder potential of an atom near a planar interface, and the Casimir energy due to two planar interfaces. We also evaluate the path integrals numerically via Monte Carlo path-averaging for these cases, studying the convergence and performance of the resulting computational techniques. Lastly, while these scalar methods are only exact in particular geometries, they may serve as an approximation for Casimir energies for the vector electromagnetic field in other geometries.« less

Worldline approach for numerical computation of electromagnetic Casimir energies: Scalar field coupled to magnetodielectric media

DOE PAGES

Mackrory, Jonathan B.; Bhattacharya, Tanmoy; Steck, Daniel A.

2016-10-12

Here, we present a worldline method for the calculation of Casimir energies for scalar fields coupled to magnetodielectric media. The scalar model we consider may be applied in arbitrary geometries, and it corresponds exactly to one polarization of the electromagnetic field in planar layered media. Starting from the field theory for electromagnetism, we work with the two decoupled polarizations in planar media and develop worldline path integrals, which represent the two polarizations separately, for computing both Casimir and Casimir-Polder potentials. We then show analytically that the path integrals for the transverse-electric polarization coupled to a dielectric medium converge to themore » proper solutions in certain special cases, including the Casimir-Polder potential of an atom near a planar interface, and the Casimir energy due to two planar interfaces. We also evaluate the path integrals numerically via Monte Carlo path-averaging for these cases, studying the convergence and performance of the resulting computational techniques. Lastly, while these scalar methods are only exact in particular geometries, they may serve as an approximation for Casimir energies for the vector electromagnetic field in other geometries.« less

Using multiple calibration sets to improve the quantitative accuracy of partial least squares (PLS) regression on open-path fourier transform infrared (OP/FT-IR) spectra of ammonia over wide concentration ranges

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

A technique of using multiple calibration sets in partial least squares regression (PLS) was proposed to improve the quantitative determination of ammonia from open-path Fourier transform infrared spectra. The spectra were measured near animal farms, and the path-integrated concentration of ammonia...

Crustal structure of the Alps as seen by attenuation tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mayor, Jessie; Calvet, Marie; Margerin, Ludovic; Vanderhaeghe, Olivier; Traversa, Paola

2016-04-01

We develop a simple tomographic approach exploiting the decay rate of coda waves to map the absorption properties of the crust in a region delimited approximately by the Rhine Graben to the North, the Apennines to the South, the Massif Central to the West and the Dinarides to the East. Our dataset comprises 40 000 coda records of about 2000 weak to moderate crustal earthquakes, with magnitude ranging from 2.8 to 6 and recorded by broad-band, accelerometric and short-period stations. After proper choice of a coda window minimizing the effects of variable epicentral distances, we measure the coda quality factor Qc in five non-overlapping frequency windows covering the 1-32 Hz band for all available source station pairs. These measurements are subsequently converted into maps of absorption quality factor (Qi) using a linearized, approximate relation between Qc and Qi. In practice the following procedure is applied in each frequency band: (1) we divide the target region into 40 × 40 km cells; (2) for each source-station pair, we assign the measured Qc value to each pixel intercepted by the direct ray path; (3) the results are averaged over all paths and subsequently smoothed with a 3 × 3 pixels moving window. Our approach is consistent with the high sensitivity of Qc to the value of Qi between source and station. Our tomographic approach reveals strong lateral variations of absorption with length scales ranging from 100 km to 1000 km. At low frequency (∼ 1 Hz), the correlation with the surface geology is clear, Cenozoic and Mesozoic sedimentary basins (resp. crystalline massifs) being recognized as high (resp. low)-absorption regions. Furthermore the Qi map delineates finer geological features such as the Ivrea Body, the Rhône Valley, or felsic intrusions in the central Alps. At high-frequency (>16 Hz), only the thickest Cenozoic sedimentary deposits show up as high-attenuation regions and a north/south dichotomy is apparent in the absorption structure. The limit between low-attenuation regions to the North and high-attenuation region to the South correlates geographically with the location of the Periadriatic Lineament (PL), a major late-alpine crustal- to lithospheric-scale structure. Furthermore, the attenuation structure seems to prolong the PL to the West along a line marked by large historical earthquakes. The Apennines orogenic belts exhibit a distinct frequency behavior, with high attenuation at low-frequency and low-attenuation at high-frequency. Low-frequency absorption may likely be explained by the relatively thick cover of Cenozoic sedimentary materials, as well as by shallow geothermal activity. We hypothesize that the frequency dependence of the attenuation structure, in particular in the Apennines, is caused by a change of the wavefield composition which accentuates the sensitivity of the coda to the deeper parts of the medium as the frequency increases.

Rain rate range profiling from a spaceborne radar

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Meneghini, R.

1980-01-01

At certain frequencies and incidence angles the relative invariance of the surface scattering properites over land can be used to estimate the total attenuation and the integrated rain from a spaceborne attenuation-wavelength radar. The technique is generalized so that rain rate profiles along the radar beam can be estimated, i.e., rain rate determination at each range bin. This is done by modifying the standard algorithm for an attenuating-wavelength radar to include in it the measurement of the total attenuation. Simple error analyses of the estimates show that this type of profiling is possible if the total attenuation can be measured with a modest degree of accuracy.

Neural dynamics for landmark orientation and angular path integration

PubMed Central

Seelig, Johannes D.; Jayaraman, Vivek

2015-01-01

Summary Many animals navigate using a combination of visual landmarks and path integration. In mammalian brains, head direction cells integrate these two streams of information by representing an animal's heading relative to landmarks, yet maintaining their directional tuning in darkness based on self-motion cues. Here we use two-photon calcium imaging in head-fixed flies walking on a ball in a virtual reality arena to demonstrate that landmark-based orientation and angular path integration are combined in the population responses of neurons whose dendrites tile the ellipsoid body — a toroidal structure in the center of the fly brain. The population encodes the fly's azimuth relative to its environment, tracking visual landmarks when available and relying on self-motion cues in darkness. When both visual and self-motion cues are absent, a representation of the animal's orientation is maintained in this network through persistent activity — a potential substrate for short-term memory. Several features of the population dynamics of these neurons and their circular anatomical arrangement are suggestive of ring attractors — network structures proposed to support the function of navigational brain circuits. PMID:25971509

Nanoaquarium: integrated microchips fabricated by ultrafast laser for understanding phenomena and functions of microorganisms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sugioka, Koji; Hanada, Yasutaka; Midorikawa, Katsumi; Kawano, Hiroyuki; Ishikawa, Ikuko S.; Miyawaki, Atsushi

2011-12-01

We demonstrate to fabricate microfluidic chips integrated with some functional microcomponents such as optical attenuators and optical waveguides by femtosecond laser direct writing for understanding phenomena and functions of microorganisms. Femtosecond laser irradiation followed by annealing and wet etching in dilute hydrofluoric acid solution resulted in fabrication of three-dimensional microfludic structures embedded in a photosensitive glass. The embedded microfludic structures enabled us to easily and efficiently observe Phormidium gliding to the seedling root, which accelerates growth of the vegetable. In addition, integration of optical attenuators and optical waveguides into the microfluidic structures clarified the mechanism of the gliding movement of Phormidium. We termed such integrated microchips nanoaquariums, realizing the highly efficient and functional observation and analysis of various microorganisms.

Silica-based, compact and variable-optical-attenuator integrated coherent receiver with stable optoelectronic coupling system.

PubMed

Tsunashima, Satoshi; Nakajima, Fumito; Nasu, Yusuke; Kasahara, Ryoichi; Nakanishi, Yasuhiko; Saida, Takashi; Yamada, Takashi; Sano, Kimikazu; Hashimoto, Toshikazu; Fukuyama, Hiroyuki; Nosaka, Hideaki; Murata, Koichi

2012-11-19

We demonstrate a compact and variable-optical-attenuator (VOA) integrated coherent receiver with a silica-based planar lightwave circuit (PLC). To realize the compact receiver, we integrate a VOA in a single PLC chip with polarization beam splitters and optical 90-degree hybrids, and employ a stable optoelectronic coupling system consisting of micro lens arrays and photodiode (PD) subcarriers with high-speed right-angled signal lines. We integrate a VOA and a coherent receiver in a 27x40x6 mm package, and successfully demodulate a 128-Gbit/s polarization division multiplexed (PDM) quadrature phase shift keying (QPSK) signal with a VOA-assisted wide dynamic range of more than 30 dB.

Regional Seismic Amplitude Modeling and Tomography for Earthquake-Explosion Discrimination

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Walter, W. R.; Pasyanos, M. E.; Matzel, E.; Gok, R.; Sweeney, J.; Ford, S. R.; Rodgers, A. J.

2008-12-01

Empirically explosions have been discriminated from natural earthquakes using regional amplitude ratio techniques such as P/S in a variety of frequency bands. We demonstrate that such ratios discriminate nuclear tests from earthquakes using closely located pairs of earthquakes and explosions recorded on common, publicly available stations at test sites around the world (e.g. Nevada, Novaya Zemlya, Semipalatinsk, Lop Nor, India, Pakistan, and North Korea). We are examining if there is any relationship between the observed P/S and the point source variability revealed by longer period full waveform modeling. For example, regional waveform modeling shows strong tectonic release from the May 1998 India test, in contrast with very little tectonic release in the October 2006 North Korea test, but the P/S discrimination behavior appears similar in both events using the limited regional data available. While regional amplitude ratios such as P/S can separate events in close proximity, it is also empirically well known that path effects can greatly distort observed amplitudes and make earthquakes appear very explosion-like. Previously we have shown that the MDAC (Magnitude Distance Amplitude Correction, Walter and Taylor, 2001) technique can account for simple 1-D attenuation and geometrical spreading corrections, as well as magnitude and site effects. However in some regions 1-D path corrections are a poor approximation and we need to develop 2-D path corrections. Here we demonstrate a new 2-D attenuation tomography technique using the MDAC earthquake source model applied to a set of events and stations in both the Middle East and the Yellow Sea Korean Peninsula regions. We believe this new 2-D MDAC tomography has the potential to greatly improve earthquake-explosion discrimination, particularly in tectonically complex regions such as the Middle East.

Differential equations driven by rough paths with jumps

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Friz, Peter K.; Zhang, Huilin

2018-05-01

We develop the rough path counterpart of Itô stochastic integration and differential equations driven by general semimartingales. This significantly enlarges the classes of (Itô/forward) stochastic differential equations treatable with pathwise methods. A number of applications are discussed.

The estimation of the propagation delay through the troposphere from microwave radiometer data. [very long base interferometry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moran, J. M.; Rosen, B. R.

1980-01-01

The uncertainity in propagation delay estimates is due primarily to tropospheric water, the total amount and vertical distribution of which is variable. Because water vapor both delays and attenuates microwave signals, the propagation delay, or wet path length, can be estimated from the microwave brightness temperature near the 22.235 GHz transition of water vapor. The data from a total of 240 radiosonde launches taken simultaneously were analyzed. Estimates of brightness temperature at 19 and 22 GHz and wet path length were made from these data. The wet path length in the zenith direction could be estimated from the surface water vapor density to an accuracy of 5 cm for the summer data and 2 cm for winter data. Using the brightness temperatures, the wet path could be estimated to an accuracy of 0.3 cm. Two dual frequency radiometers were refurbished in order to test these techniques. These radiometers were capable of measuring the difference in the brightness temperature at 30 deg elevation angle and at the zenith to an accuracy of about 1 K. In August 1975, 45 radiosondes were launched over an 11 day period. Brightness temperature measurements were made simultaneously at 19 and 22 GHz with the radiometers. The rms error for the estimation of wet path length from surface meteorological parameters was 3.2 cm, and from the radiometer brightness temperatures, 1.5 cm.

Effect of the bitterness of food on muscular activity and masticatory movement.

PubMed

Okada, Yamato; Shiga, Hiroshi

2017-10-01

The purpose of this study was to clarify the effect of the bitterness of food on muscular activity and masticatory movement. Twenty healthy subjects were asked to chew a non-bitter gummy jelly and a bitter gummy jelly on their habitual chewing side. The masseter muscular activity and the movement of mandibular incisal point were recorded simultaneously. For all cycles excluding the first cycle, parameters representing the muscular activity (total integral value and integral value per cycle) and masticatory movement (path, rhythm, and stability) were calculated and compared between the two types of gummy jellies. The total integral value of masseter muscular activity during the chewing of bitter gummy jelly was significantly smaller than during the chewing of non-bitter gummy jelly, however, no definite trends in the integral value per cycle and the stability of movement were observed. The parameters representing the movement path tended to be small during the chewing of bitter gummy jelly than during the chewing of non-bitter gummy jelly. The masticatory width was significantly smaller during the chewing of bitter gummy jelly. The parameters representing the rhythm of movement were significantly longer during the chewing of bitter gummy jelly than during the chewing of non-bitter gummy jelly. From these results it was suggested that the bitterness of food does not affect the integral value per cycle or the stability of the masticatory movement, but it does affect the movement path and rhythm, with narrowing of the path and slowing of the rhythm. Copyright © 2017 Japan Prosthodontic Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Elevated temperature crack growth

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kim, K. S.; Vanstone, R. H.

1992-01-01

The purpose of this program was to extend the work performed in the base program (CR 182247) into the regime of time-dependent crack growth under isothermal and thermal mechanical fatigue (TMF) loading, where creep deformation also influences the crack growth behavior. The investigation was performed in a two-year, six-task, combined experimental and analytical program. The path-independent integrals for application to time-dependent crack growth were critically reviewed. The crack growth was simulated using a finite element method. The path-independent integrals were computed from the results of finite-element analyses. The ability of these integrals to correlate experimental crack growth data were evaluated under various loading and temperature conditions. The results indicate that some of these integrals are viable parameters for crack growth prediction at elevated temperatures.

Stationary properties of maximum-entropy random walks.

PubMed

Dixit, Purushottam D

2015-10-01

Maximum-entropy (ME) inference of state probabilities using state-dependent constraints is popular in the study of complex systems. In stochastic systems, how state space topology and path-dependent constraints affect ME-inferred state probabilities remains unknown. To that end, we derive the transition probabilities and the stationary distribution of a maximum path entropy Markov process subject to state- and path-dependent constraints. A main finding is that the stationary distribution over states differs significantly from the Boltzmann distribution and reflects a competition between path multiplicity and imposed constraints. We illustrate our results with particle diffusion on a two-dimensional landscape. Connections with the path integral approach to diffusion are discussed.

Terrain classification in navigation of an autonomous mobile robot

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dodds, David R.

1991-03-01

In this paper we describe a method of path planning that integrates terrain classification (by means of fractals) the certainty grid method of spatial representation Kehtarnavaz Griswold collision-zones Dubois Prade fuzzy temporal and spatial knowledge and non-point sized qualitative navigational planning. An initially planned (" end-to-end" ) path is piece-wise modified to accommodate known and inferred moving obstacles and includes attention to time-varying multiple subgoals which may influence a section of path at a time after the robot has begun traversing that planned path.

Methods of Contemporary Gauge Theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Makeenko, Yuri

2002-08-01

Preface; Part I. Path Integrals: 1. Operator calculus; 2. Second quantization; 3. Quantum anomalies from path integral; 4. Instantons in quantum mechanics; Part II. Lattice Gauge Theories: 5. Observables in gauge theories; 6. Gauge fields on a lattice; 7. Lattice methods; 8. Fermions on a lattice; 9. Finite temperatures; Part III. 1/N Expansion: 10. O(N) vector models; 11. Multicolor QCD; 12. QCD in loop space; 13. Matrix models; Part IV. Reduced Models: 14. Eguchi-Kawai model; 15. Twisted reduced models; 16. Non-commutative gauge theories.

Methods of Contemporary Gauge Theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Makeenko, Yuri

2005-11-01

Preface; Part I. Path Integrals: 1. Operator calculus; 2. Second quantization; 3. Quantum anomalies from path integral; 4. Instantons in quantum mechanics; Part II. Lattice Gauge Theories: 5. Observables in gauge theories; 6. Gauge fields on a lattice; 7. Lattice methods; 8. Fermions on a lattice; 9. Finite temperatures; Part III. 1/N Expansion: 10. O(N) vector models; 11. Multicolor QCD; 12. QCD in loop space; 13. Matrix models; Part IV. Reduced Models: 14. Eguchi-Kawai model; 15. Twisted reduced models; 16. Non-commutative gauge theories.

Weinberg propagator of a massive particle with an arbitrary spin (in Ukrainian)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zima, V. G.; Fedoruk, S. O.

The transition amplitude is obtained for a free massive particle of an arbitrary spin by calculating the path integral in the index--spinor formulation within the BFV--BRST approach. None renormalizations of the path integral measure were applied. The calculation has given the Weinberg propagator written in the index--free form with the use of an index spinor. The choice of boundary conditions on the index spinor determines holomorphic or antiholomorphic representation for the canonical description of particle/antiparticle spin.

A path to integration in an academic health science center.

PubMed Central

Panko, W. B.; Wilson, W.

1992-01-01

This article describes a networking and integration strategy in use at the University of Michigan Medical Center. This strategy builds upon the existing technology base and is designed to provide a roadmap that will direct short-term development along a productive, long-term path. It offers a way to permit the short-term development of incremental solutions to current problems while at the same time maximizing the likelihood that these incremental efforts can be recycled into a more comprehensive approach. PMID:1336413

A path-integral approach to the problem of time

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Amaral, M. M.; Bojowald, Martin

2018-01-01

Quantum transition amplitudes are formulated for model systems with local internal time, using intuition from path integrals. The amplitudes are shown to be more regular near a turning point of internal time than could be expected based on existing canonical treatments. In particular, a successful transition through a turning point is provided in the model systems, together with a new definition of such a transition in general terms. Some of the results rely on a fruitful relation between the problem of time and general Gribov problems.

A Tomographic Method for the Reconstruction of Local Probability Density Functions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sivathanu, Y. R.; Gore, J. P.

1993-01-01

A method of obtaining the probability density function (PDF) of local properties from path integrated measurements is described. The approach uses a discrete probability function (DPF) method to infer the PDF of the local extinction coefficient from measurements of the PDFs of the path integrated transmittance. The local PDFs obtained using the method are compared with those obtained from direct intrusive measurements in propylene/air and ethylene/air diffusion flames. The results of this comparison are good.

THz Acoustic Spectroscopy by using Double Quantum Wells and Ultrafast Optical Spectroscopy.

PubMed

Wei, Fan Jun; Yeh, Yu-Hsiang; Sheu, Jinn-Kong; Lin, Kung-Hsuan

2016-06-27

GaN is a pivotal material for acoustic transducers and acoustic spectroscopy in the THz regime, but its THz phonon properties have not been experimentally and comprehensively studied. In this report, we demonstrate how to use double quantum wells as a THz acoustic transducer for measuring generated acoustic phonons and deriving a broadband acoustic spectrum with continuous frequencies. We experimentally investigated the sub-THz frequency dependence of acoustic attenuation (i.e., phonon mean-free paths) in GaN, in addition to its physical origins such as anharmonic scattering, defect scattering, and boundary scattering. A new upper limit of attenuation caused by anharmonic scattering, which is lower than previously reported values, was obtained. Our results should be noteworthy for THz acoustic spectroscopy and for gaining a fundamental understanding of heat conduction.

Attenuation process of the longitudinal phonon mode in a TeO2 crystal in the 20-GHz range

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ohno, S.; Sonehara, T.; Tatsu, E.; Koreeda, A.; Saikan, S.

2017-06-01

We experimentally investigated the hypersonic attenuation process of a longitudinal mode (L-mode) sound wave in TeO2 from room temperature to a lower temperature using Brillouin scattering and impulsive stimulated thermal scattering (ISTS) measurements. For precise measurement of the Brillouin linewidth at low temperatures, whereby the mean free path of the phonon becomes longer than the sample length, it is indispensable that the phonon should propagate along the phonon-resonance direction. To figure out the suitable direction, we defined two indices characterizing a degree of phonon divergence and a purity of propagation direction. The best direction that we found from these indices is [110] direction in TeO2, and it was used to discuss the temperature and frequency dependences of Brillouin spectra. We extracted the temperature dependence of the attenuation rate of T4 from the modulated Brillouin spectra due to the phonon resonance below Debye temperature. The frequency dependence ω1 of the hypersonic attenuation was also estimated from the polarization dependence of the Brillouin linewidth. Theoretically, it predicted that the L-mode phonon attenuation at low temperatures in TeO2 is a result of Herring's process, which shows the attenuation behavior of ω2T3 . The ω1T4 dependence is not allowed in Herring's process but is allowed by the L +L →L process, which has been considered to be forbidden so far. We evaluated the thermal phonon lifetime using ISTS and established that it was finite even at 20 K, thereby allowing the L +L →L process. Therefore, we conclude that the L +L →L process dominates the attenuation of an L-mode phonon in TeO2 in the low-temperature region.

Life-space foam: A medium for motivational and cognitive dynamics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ivancevic, Vladimir; Aidman, Eugene

2007-08-01

General stochastic dynamics, developed in a framework of Feynman path integrals, have been applied to Lewinian field-theoretic psychodynamics [K. Lewin, Field Theory in Social Science, University of Chicago Press, Chicago, 1951; K. Lewin, Resolving Social Conflicts, and, Field Theory in Social Science, American Psychological Association, Washington, 1997; M. Gold, A Kurt Lewin Reader, the Complete Social Scientist, American Psychological Association, Washington, 1999], resulting in the development of a new concept of life-space foam (LSF) as a natural medium for motivational and cognitive psychodynamics. According to LSF formalisms, the classic Lewinian life space can be macroscopically represented as a smooth manifold with steady force fields and behavioral paths, while at the microscopic level it is more realistically represented as a collection of wildly fluctuating force fields, (loco)motion paths and local geometries (and topologies with holes). A set of least-action principles is used to model the smoothness of global, macro-level LSF paths, fields and geometry. To model the corresponding local, micro-level LSF structures, an adaptive path integral is used, defining a multi-phase and multi-path (multi-field and multi-geometry) transition process from intention to goal-driven action. Application examples of this new approach include (but are not limited to) information processing, motivational fatigue, learning, memory and decision making.

Anomalous propagation of Omega VLF waves near the geomagnetic equator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ohtani, A.; Kikuchi, T.; Nozaki, K.; Kurihara, N.; Kuratani, Y.; Ohse, M.

1983-09-01

Omega HAIKU, REUNION, and LIBERIA signals were received and anomalous propagation characteristics were obtained near the geomagnetic equator. Short-period fluctuations were found in the phase of the HAIKU 10.2 kHz signal in November 1979 and in the phase and amplitude of the HAIKU 13.6 kHz signal in November 1981. These cyclic fluctuations are in close correlation with the phase cycle slippings, which occur most frequently when the receiver is located at 6 S geomagnetic latitude. On the basis of anisotropic waveguide mode theory indicating much less attenuation in WE propagation than in EW propagation at the geomagnetic equator, it is concluded that the short-period fluctuations in the phase and amplitude are due to interference between the short-path and the long-path signals.

2-Micron Triple-Pulse Integrated Path Differential Absorption Lidar Development for Simultaneous Airborne Column Measurements of Carbon Dioxide and Water Vapor in the Atmosphere

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Singh, Upendra N.; Petros, Mulugeta; Refaat, Tamer F.; Yu, Jirong

2016-01-01

For more than 15 years, NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC) has contributed in developing several 2-micron carbon dioxide active remote sensors using the DIAL technique. Currently, an airborne 2-micron triple-pulse integrated path differential absorption (IPDA) lidar is under development at NASA LaRC. This paper focuses on the advancement of the 2-micron triple-pulse IPDA lidar development. Updates on the state-of-the-art triple-pulse laser transmitter will be presented including the status of wavelength control, packaging and lidar integration. In addition, receiver development updates will also be presented, including telescope integration, detection systems and data acquisition electronics. Future plan for IPDA lidar system for ground integration, testing and flight validation will be presented.

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

Luo, P.F.; Wang, J.S.; Chao, Y.J.

The stereo vision is used to study the fracture behavior in the compact tension (CT) specimen made from 304L stainless steel. During crack tip blunting, initiation, and growth in the CT specimen, both in-plane and out-of-plane displacement fields near the crack tip are measured by the stereo vision. Based on the plane stress assumption and the deformation theory of plasticity, the J integral is evaluated along several rectangular paths surrounding the crack tip by using the measured in-plane displacement field. Prior to crack growth, the J integral is path independent. For crack extension up to {Delta}a {approx} 3 mm, themore » near field J integral values are 6% to 10% lower than far field J integral values. For the crack extension of {Delta}a {approx} 4 mm, the J integral lost path independence. The far field J integral values are in good agreement with results obtained from Merkle-Corten`s formula. Both J-{Delta}a and CTOA-{Delta}a are obtained by computing the J integral value and crack tip opening angle (CTOA) at each {Delta}a. Results indicate that CTOA reached a nearly constant value at a crack extension of {Delta}a = 3 mm with a leveled resistance curve thereafter. Also, the J integral value is determined by the maximum transverse diameter of the shadow spots, which are generated by using the out-of-plane displacement field. Results indicate that for crack extension up to 0.25 mm, the J integral values evaluated by using the out-of- plane displacement are close to those obtained by using in-plane displacements and Merkle-Corten`s formula.« less

A review of depolarization modeling for earth-space radio paths at frequencies above 10 GHz

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bostian, C. W.; Stutzman, W. L.; Gaines, J. M.

1982-01-01

A review is presented of models for the depolarization, caused by scattering from raindrops and ice crystals, that limits the performance of dual-polarized satellite communication systems at frequencies above 10 GHz. The physical mechanisms of depolarization as well as theoretical formulations and empirical data are examined. Three theoretical models, the transmission, attenuation-derived, and scaling models, are described and their relative merits are considered.

Medical ultrasonic tomographic system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Heyser, R. C.; Lecroissette, D. H.; Nathan, R.; Wilson, R. L.

1977-01-01

An electro-mechanical scanning assembly was designed and fabricated for the purpose of generating an ultrasound tomogram. A low cost modality was demonstrated in which analog instrumentation methods formed a tomogram on photographic film. Successful tomogram reconstructions were obtained on in vitro test objects by using the attenuation of the fist path ultrasound signal as it passed through the test object. The nearly half century tomographic methods of X-ray analysis were verified as being useful for ultrasound imaging.

General pulsed-field gradient signal attenuation expression based on a fractional integral modified-Bloch equation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Guoxing

2018-10-01

Anomalous diffusion has been investigated in many polymer and biological systems. The analysis of PFG anomalous diffusion relies on the ability to obtain the signal attenuation expression. However, the general analytical PFG signal attenuation expression based on the fractional derivative has not been previously reported. Additionally, the reported modified-Bloch equations for PFG anomalous diffusion in the literature yielded different results due to their different forms. Here, a new integral type modified-Bloch equation based on the fractional derivative for PFG anomalous diffusion is proposed, which is significantly different from the conventional differential type modified-Bloch equation. The merit of the integral type modified-Bloch equation is that the original properties of the contributions from linear or nonlinear processes remain unchanged at the instant of the combination. From the modified-Bloch equation, the general solutions are derived, which includes the finite gradient pulse width (FGPW) effect. The numerical evaluation of these PFG signal attenuation expressions can be obtained either by the Adomian decomposition, or a direct integration method that is fast and practicable. The theoretical results agree with the continuous-time random walk (CTRW) simulations performed in this paper. Additionally, the relaxation effect in PFG anomalous diffusion is found to be different from that in PFG normal diffusion. The new modified-Bloch equations and their solutions provide a fundamental tool to analyze PFG anomalous diffusion in nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Lateral Attenuation of Aircraft Flight Noise.

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-03-01

levels with elevation angle. Comparisons of different Imodels are made in terms of the differences in A - levels for a flyover with the observer directly...attenuation adjustment to be applied to the basic noise data is the same when applied to maximum levels (maximum A - levels for example) or to integrated...attenuation values were applied to sets of one-third octave band spectra for different aircraft The resulting differences in A - levels for these noise spectra

System and Method for Aiding Pilot Preview, Rehearsal, Review, and Real-Time Visual Acquisition of Flight Mission Progress

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Prinzel, III, Lawrence J. (Inventor); Pope, Alan T. (Inventor); Williams, Steven P. (Inventor); Bailey, Randall E. (Inventor); Arthur, Jarvis J. (Inventor); Kramer, Lynda J. (Inventor); Schutte, Paul C. (Inventor)

2012-01-01

Embodiments of the invention permit flight paths (current and planned) to be viewed from various orientations to provide improved path and terrain awareness via graphical two-dimensional or three-dimensional perspective display formats. By coupling the flight path information with a terrain database, uncompromising terrain awareness relative to the path and ownship is provided. In addition, missed approaches, path deviations, and any navigational path can be reviewed and rehearsed before performing the actual task. By rehearsing a particular mission, check list items can be reviewed, terrain awareness can be highlighted, and missed approach procedures can be discussed by the flight crew. Further, the use of Controller Pilot Datalink Communications enables data-linked path, flight plan changes, and Air Traffic Control requests to be integrated into the flight display of the present invention.

Path integral solution for a Klein-Gordon particle in vector and scalar deformed radial Rosen-Morse-type potentials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khodja, A.; Kadja, A.; Benamira, F.; Guechi, L.

2017-12-01

The problem of a Klein-Gordon particle moving in equal vector and scalar Rosen-Morse-type potentials is solved in the framework of Feynman's path integral approach. Explicit path integration leads to a closed form for the radial Green's function associated with different shapes of the potentials. For q≤-1, and 1/2α ln | q|0, it is shown that the quantization conditions for the bound state energy levels E_{nr} are transcendental equations which can be solved numerically. Three special cases such as the standard radial Manning-Rosen potential (| q| =1), the standard radial Rosen-Morse potential (V2→ -V2,q=1) and the radial Eckart potential (V1→ -V1,q=1) are also briefly discussed.

Going the distance: spatial scale of athletic experience affects the accuracy of path integration.

PubMed

Smith, Alastair D; Howard, Christina J; Alcock, Niall; Cater, Kirsten

2010-09-01

Evidence suggests that athletically trained individuals are more accurate than untrained individuals in updating their spatial position through idiothetic cues. We assessed whether training at different spatial scales affects the accuracy of path integration. Groups of rugby players (large-scale training) and martial artists (small-scale training) participated in a triangle-completion task: they were led (blindfolded) along two sides of a right-angled triangle and were required to complete the hypotenuse by returning to the origin. The groups did not differ in their assessment of the distance to the origin, but rugby players were more accurate than martial artists in assessing the correct angle to turn (heading), and landed significantly closer to the origin. These data support evidence that distance and heading components can be dissociated. Furthermore, they suggest that the spatial scale at which an individual is trained may affect the accuracy of one component of path integration but not the other.

Quantum structural fluctuation in para-hydrogen clusters revealed by the variational path integral method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miura, Shinichi

2018-03-01

In this paper, the ground state of para-hydrogen clusters for size regime N ≤ 40 has been studied by our variational path integral molecular dynamics method. Long molecular dynamics calculations have been performed to accurately evaluate ground state properties. The chemical potential of the hydrogen molecule is found to have a zigzag size dependence, indicating the magic number stability for the clusters of the size N = 13, 26, 29, 34, and 39. One-body density of the hydrogen molecule is demonstrated to have a structured profile, not a melted one. The observed magic number stability is examined using the inherent structure analysis. We also have developed a novel method combining our variational path integral hybrid Monte Carlo method with the replica exchange technique. We introduce replicas of the original system bridging from the structured to the melted cluster, which is realized by scaling the potential energy of the system. Using the enhanced sampling method, the clusters are demonstrated to have the structured density profile in the ground state.

Accurate Exchange-Correlation Energies for the Warm Dense Electron Gas.

PubMed

Malone, Fionn D; Blunt, N S; Brown, Ethan W; Lee, D K K; Spencer, J S; Foulkes, W M C; Shepherd, James J

2016-09-09

The density matrix quantum Monte Carlo (DMQMC) method is used to sample exact-on-average N-body density matrices for uniform electron gas systems of up to 10^{124} matrix elements via a stochastic solution of the Bloch equation. The results of these calculations resolve a current debate over the accuracy of the data used to parametrize finite-temperature density functionals. Exchange-correlation energies calculated using the real-space restricted path-integral formalism and the k-space configuration path-integral formalism disagree by up to ∼10% at certain reduced temperatures T/T_{F}≤0.5 and densities r_{s}≤1. Our calculations confirm the accuracy of the configuration path-integral Monte Carlo results available at high density and bridge the gap to lower densities, providing trustworthy data in the regime typical of planetary interiors and solids subject to laser irradiation. We demonstrate that the DMQMC method can calculate free energies directly and present exact free energies for T/T_{F}≥1 and r_{s}≤2.

Quantum structural fluctuation in para-hydrogen clusters revealed by the variational path integral method.

PubMed

Miura, Shinichi

2018-03-14

In this paper, the ground state of para-hydrogen clusters for size regime N ≤ 40 has been studied by our variational path integral molecular dynamics method. Long molecular dynamics calculations have been performed to accurately evaluate ground state properties. The chemical potential of the hydrogen molecule is found to have a zigzag size dependence, indicating the magic number stability for the clusters of the size N = 13, 26, 29, 34, and 39. One-body density of the hydrogen molecule is demonstrated to have a structured profile, not a melted one. The observed magic number stability is examined using the inherent structure analysis. We also have developed a novel method combining our variational path integral hybrid Monte Carlo method with the replica exchange technique. We introduce replicas of the original system bridging from the structured to the melted cluster, which is realized by scaling the potential energy of the system. Using the enhanced sampling method, the clusters are demonstrated to have the structured density profile in the ground state.

The product form for path integrals on curved manifolds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grosche, C.

1988-03-01

A general and simple framework for treating path integrals on curved manifolds is presented. The crucial point will be a product ansatz for the metric tensor and the quantum hamiltonian, i.e. we shall write g αβ = h αγh βγ and H = (1/2m)h αγp αp βh βγ + V + ΔV , respectively, a prescription which we shall call “product form” definition. The p α are hermitian momenta and Δ V is a well-defined quantum correction. We shall show that this ansatz, which looks quite special, is in fact - under reasonable assumptions in quantum mechanics - a very general one. We shall derive the lagrangian path integral in the “product form” definition and shall also prove that the Schro¨dinger equation can be derived from the corresponding short-time kernel. We shall discuss briefly an application of this prescription to the problem of free quantum motion on the Poincare´upper half-plane.

A path-independent integral for the characterization of solute concentration and flux at biofilm detachments

USGS Publications Warehouse

Moran, B.; Kulkarni, S.S.; Reeves, H.W.

2007-01-01

A path-independent (conservation) integral is developed for the characterization of solute concentration and flux in a biofilm in the vicinity of a detachment or other flux limiting boundary condition. Steady state conditions of solute diffusion are considered and biofilm kinetics are described by an uptake term which can be expressed in terms of a potential (Michaelis-Menten kinetics). An asymptotic solution for solute concentration at the tip of the detachment is obtained and shown to be analogous to that of antiplane crack problems in linear elasticity. It is shown that the amplitude of the asymptotic solution can be calculated by evaluating a path-independent integral. The special case of a semi-infinite detachment in an infinite strip is considered and the amplitude of the asymptotic field is related to the boundary conditions and problem parameters in closed form for zeroth and first order kinetics and numerically for Michaelis-Menten kinetics. ?? Springer Science+Business Media, Inc. 2007.

Variational path integral molecular dynamics and hybrid Monte Carlo algorithms using a fourth order propagator with applications to molecular systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kamibayashi, Yuki; Miura, Shinichi

2016-08-01

In the present study, variational path integral molecular dynamics and associated hybrid Monte Carlo (HMC) methods have been developed on the basis of a fourth order approximation of a density operator. To reveal various parameter dependence of physical quantities, we analytically solve one dimensional harmonic oscillators by the variational path integral; as a byproduct, we obtain the analytical expression of the discretized density matrix using the fourth order approximation for the oscillators. Then, we apply our methods to realistic systems like a water molecule and a para-hydrogen cluster. In the HMC, we adopt two level description to avoid the time consuming Hessian evaluation. For the systems examined in this paper, the HMC method is found to be about three times more efficient than the molecular dynamics method if appropriate HMC parameters are adopted; the advantage of the HMC method is suggested to be more evident for systems described by many body interaction.

Regional Body-Wave Attenuation Using a Coda Source Normalization Method: Application to MEDNET Records of Earthquakes in Italy

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

Walter, W R; Mayeda, K; Malagnini, L

2007-02-01

We develop a new methodology to determine apparent attenuation for the regional seismic phases Pn, Pg, Sn, and Lg using coda-derived source spectra. The local-to-regional coda methodology (Mayeda, 1993; Mayeda and Walter, 1996; Mayeda et al., 2003) is a very stable way to obtain source spectra from sparse networks using as few as one station, even if direct waves are clipped. We develop a two-step process to isolate the frequency-dependent Q. First, we correct the observed direct wave amplitudes for an assumed geometrical spreading. Next, an apparent Q, combining path and site attenuation, is determined from the difference between themore » spreading-corrected amplitude and the independently determined source spectra derived from the coda methodology. We apply the technique to 50 earthquakes with magnitudes greater than 4.0 in central Italy as recorded by MEDNET broadband stations around the Mediterranean at local-to-regional distances. This is an ideal test region due to its high attenuation, complex propagation, and availability of many moderate sized earthquakes. We find that a power law attenuation of the form Q(f) = Q{sub 0}f{sup Y} fit all the phases quite well over the 0.5 to 8 Hz band. At most stations, the measured apparent Q values are quite repeatable from event to event. Finding the attenuation function in this manner guarantees a close match between inferred source spectra from direct waves and coda techniques. This is important if coda and direct wave amplitudes are to produce consistent seismic results.« less

Bidirectional reflection functions from surface bump maps

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

Cabral, B.; Max, N.; Springmeyer, R.

1987-04-29

The Torrance-Sparrow model for calculating bidirectional reflection functions contains a geometrical attenuation factor to account for shadowing and occlusions in a hypothetical distribution of grooves on a rough surface. Using an efficient table-based method for determining the shadows and occlusions, we calculate the geometric attenuation factor for surfaces defined by a specific table of bump heights. Diffuse and glossy specular reflection of the environment can be handled in a unified manner by using an integral of the bidirectional reflection function times the environmental illumination, over the hemisphere of solid angle above a surface. We present a method of estimating themore » integral, by expanding the bidirectional reflection coefficient in spherical harmonics, and show how the coefficients in this expansion can be determined efficiently by reorganizing our geometric attenuation calculation.« less

Functional Integration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cartier, Pierre; DeWitt-Morette, Cecile

2006-11-01

Acknowledgements; List symbols, conventions, and formulary; Part I. The Physical and Mathematical Environment: 1. The physical and mathematical environment; Part II. Quantum Mechanics: 2. First lesson: gaussian integrals; 3. Selected examples; 4. Semiclassical expansion: WKB; 5. Semiclassical expansion: beyond WKB; 6. Quantum dynamics: path integrals and operator formalism; Part III. Methods from Differential Geometry: 7. Symmetries; 8. Homotopy; 9. Grassmann analysis: basics; 10. Grassmann analysis: applications; 11. Volume elements, divergences, gradients; Part IV. Non-Gaussian Applications: 12. Poisson processes in physics; 13. A mathematical theory of Poisson processes; 14. First exit time: energy problems; Part V. Problems in Quantum Field Theory: 15. Renormalization 1: an introduction; 16. Renormalization 2: scaling; 17. Renormalization 3: combinatorics; 18. Volume elements in quantum field theory Bryce DeWitt; Part VI. Projects: 19. Projects; Appendix A. Forward and backward integrals: spaces of pointed paths; Appendix B. Product integrals; Appendix C. A compendium of gaussian integrals; Appendix D. Wick calculus Alexander Wurm; Appendix E. The Jacobi operator; Appendix F. Change of variables of integration; Appendix G. Analytic properties of covariances; Appendix H. Feynman's checkerboard; Bibliography; Index.

Functional Integration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cartier, Pierre; DeWitt-Morette, Cecile

2010-06-01

Acknowledgements; List symbols, conventions, and formulary; Part I. The Physical and Mathematical Environment: 1. The physical and mathematical environment; Part II. Quantum Mechanics: 2. First lesson: gaussian integrals; 3. Selected examples; 4. Semiclassical expansion: WKB; 5. Semiclassical expansion: beyond WKB; 6. Quantum dynamics: path integrals and operator formalism; Part III. Methods from Differential Geometry: 7. Symmetries; 8. Homotopy; 9. Grassmann analysis: basics; 10. Grassmann analysis: applications; 11. Volume elements, divergences, gradients; Part IV. Non-Gaussian Applications: 12. Poisson processes in physics; 13. A mathematical theory of Poisson processes; 14. First exit time: energy problems; Part V. Problems in Quantum Field Theory: 15. Renormalization 1: an introduction; 16. Renormalization 2: scaling; 17. Renormalization 3: combinatorics; 18. Volume elements in quantum field theory Bryce DeWitt; Part VI. Projects: 19. Projects; Appendix A. Forward and backward integrals: spaces of pointed paths; Appendix B. Product integrals; Appendix C. A compendium of gaussian integrals; Appendix D. Wick calculus Alexander Wurm; Appendix E. The Jacobi operator; Appendix F. Change of variables of integration; Appendix G. Analytic properties of covariances; Appendix H. Feynman's checkerboard; Bibliography; Index.

Neighboring extremals of dynamic optimization problems with path equality constraints

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, A. Y.

1988-01-01

Neighboring extremals of dynamic optimization problems with path equality constraints and with an unknown parameter vector are considered in this paper. With some simplifications, the problem is reduced to solving a linear, time-varying two-point boundary-value problem with integral path equality constraints. A modified backward sweep method is used to solve this problem. Two example problems are solved to illustrate the validity and usefulness of the solution technique.

Frequency-dependent Lg-wave attenuation in northern Morocco

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Noriega, Raquel; Ugalde, Arantza; Villaseñor, Antonio; Harnafi, Mimoun

2015-11-01

Frequency-dependent attenuation (Q- 1) in the crust of northern Morocco is estimated from Lg-wave spectral amplitude measurements every quarter octave in the frequency band 0.8 to 8 Hz. This study takes advantage of the improved broadband data coverage in the region provided by the deployment of the IberArray seismic network. Earthquake data consist of 71 crustal events with magnitudes 4 ≤ mb ≤ 5.5 recorded on 110 permanent and temporary seismic stations between January 2008 and December 2013 with hypocentral distances between 100 and 900 km. 1274 high-quality Lg waveforms provide dense path coverage of northern Morocco, crossing a region with a complex structure and heterogeneous tectonic setting as a result of continuous interactions between the African and Eurasian plates. We use two different methods: the coda normalization (CN) analysis, that allows removal of the source and site effects from the Lg spectra, and the spectral amplitude decay (SAD) method, that simultaneously inverts for source, site, and path attenuation terms. The CN and SAD methods return similar results, indicating that the Lg Q models are robust to differences in the methodologies. Larger errors and no significant frequency dependence are observed for frequencies lower than 1.5 Hz. For distances up to 400 km and the frequency band 1.5 ≤ ƒ (Hz) ≤ 4.5, the model functions Q(f) = (529- 22+ 23)(f/1.5)0.23 ± 0.06 and Q(f) = (457- 7+ 7)(f/1.5)0.44 ± 0.02 are obtained using the CN and SAD methods, respectively. A change in the frequency dependence is observed above 4.5 Hz for both methods which may be related to the influence of the Sn energy on the Lg window. The frequency-dependent Q- 1 estimates represent an average attenuation beneath a broad region including the Rif and Tell mountains, the Moroccan and Algerian mesetas, the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Platform structural domains, and correlate well with areas of moderate seismicity where intermediate Q values have been obtained.

Seismic velocity and attenuation structures at the top 400 km of the inner core

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, W.; Wen, L.; Niu, F.

2002-12-01

Recent seismic studies reveal an ``east-west" hemispherical difference in seismic velocity and attenuation in the top of the inner core [Niu and Wen, 2001, Wen and Niu, 2002]. The PKiKP-PKIKP observations they used only allowed them to constrain the seismic structure in the top 80 km of the inner core. The question now arises as such to what depth this hemispherical difference persists. To answer this question, we combine the PKiKP-PKIKP dataset and the PKPbc-PKIKP observations at the distance range of 147o-160o to study seismic velocity and attenuation structures in the top 400 km of the inner core along the ``equatorial paths" (the paths whose ray angles > 35o from the polar direction). We select PKPbc-PKIKP waveforms from recordings in the Global Seismic Network (GSN) and several dense regional seismic arrays. We choose recordings for events from 1990 to 2000 with simple source time functions, so only those of intermediate and deep earthquakes are used. The observed PKPbc-PKIKP differential travel times and PKIKP/PKPbc amplitude ratios exhibit an ``east-west" hemispherical difference. The PKPbc-PKIKP travel time residuals are about 0.7 second larger for those sampling the ``eastern" hemisphere than those sampling the ``western" hemisphere. The PKIKP/PKPbc amplitude ratios are generally smaller for those sampling the ``eastern" hemisphere. We construct two seismic velocity and attenuation models, with one for each ``hemisphere", by iteratively modeling the observed PKiKP-PKIKP waveforms, the PKPbc-PKIKP differential travel times and the PKIKP/PKPbc amplitude ratios. For the ``eastern" hemisphere, the observations indicate that the E1 velocity gradient and Q structure, inferred from the PKiKP-PKIKP observations sampling the top 80 km of the inner core, extend at least to 230 km inside the inner core. A change of velocity gradient and Q value is required in the deeper portion of the inner core. For the ``western" hemisphere, on the other hand, W2 velocity gradient and Q structure, obtained from modeling the PKiKP-PKIKP observations, explain the PKPbc-PKIKP observations well.

Energy Optimal Path Planning: Integrating Coastal Ocean Modelling with Optimal Control

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Subramani, D. N.; Haley, P. J., Jr.; Lermusiaux, P. F. J.

2016-02-01

A stochastic optimization methodology is formulated for computing energy-optimal paths from among time-optimal paths of autonomous vehicles navigating in a dynamic flow field. To set up the energy optimization, the relative vehicle speed and headings are considered to be stochastic, and new stochastic Dynamically Orthogonal (DO) level-set equations that govern their stochastic time-optimal reachability fronts are derived. Their solution provides the distribution of time-optimal reachability fronts and corresponding distribution of time-optimal paths. An optimization is then performed on the vehicle's energy-time joint distribution to select the energy-optimal paths for each arrival time, among all stochastic time-optimal paths for that arrival time. The accuracy and efficiency of the DO level-set equations for solving the governing stochastic level-set reachability fronts are quantitatively assessed, including comparisons with independent semi-analytical solutions. Energy-optimal missions are studied in wind-driven barotropic quasi-geostrophic double-gyre circulations, and in realistic data-assimilative re-analyses of multiscale coastal ocean flows. The latter re-analyses are obtained from multi-resolution 2-way nested primitive-equation simulations of tidal-to-mesoscale dynamics in the Middle Atlantic Bight and Shelbreak Front region. The effects of tidal currents, strong wind events, coastal jets, and shelfbreak fronts on the energy-optimal paths are illustrated and quantified. Results showcase the opportunities for longer-duration missions that intelligently utilize the ocean environment to save energy, rigorously integrating ocean forecasting with optimal control of autonomous vehicles.

Path integral approach to the Wigner representation of canonical density operators for discrete systems coupled to harmonic baths.

PubMed

Montoya-Castillo, Andrés; Reichman, David R

2017-01-14

We derive a semi-analytical form for the Wigner transform for the canonical density operator of a discrete system coupled to a harmonic bath based on the path integral expansion of the Boltzmann factor. The introduction of this simple and controllable approach allows for the exact rendering of the canonical distribution and permits systematic convergence of static properties with respect to the number of path integral steps. In addition, the expressions derived here provide an exact and facile interface with quasi- and semi-classical dynamical methods, which enables the direct calculation of equilibrium time correlation functions within a wide array of approaches. We demonstrate that the present method represents a practical path for the calculation of thermodynamic data for the spin-boson and related systems. We illustrate the power of the present approach by detailing the improvement of the quality of Ehrenfest theory for the correlation function C zz (t)=Re⟨σ z (0)σ z (t)⟩ for the spin-boson model with systematic convergence to the exact sampling function. Importantly, the numerically exact nature of the scheme presented here and its compatibility with semiclassical methods allows for the systematic testing of commonly used approximations for the Wigner-transformed canonical density.

Triple-Pulse Integrated Path Differential Absorption Lidar for Carbon Dioxide Measurement - Novel Lidar Technologies and Techniques with Path to Space

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Singh, Upendra N.; Refaat, Tamer F.; Petros, Mulugeta

2017-01-01

The societal benefits of understanding climate change through identification of global carbon dioxide sources and sinks led to the desired NASA's active sensing of carbon dioxide emissions over nights, days, and seasons (ASCENDS) space-based missions of global carbon dioxide measurements. For more than 15 years, NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC) have developed several carbon dioxide active remote sensors using the differential absorption lidar (DIAL) technique operating at the two-micron wavelength. Currently, an airborne two-micron triple-pulse integrated path differential absorption (IPDA) lidar is under development. This IPDA lidar measures carbon dioxide as well as water vapor, the dominant interfering molecule on carbon dioxide remote sensing. Advancement of this triple-pulse IPDA lidar development is presented.

Employer Resource Manual. Project Path.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kane, Karen R.; Del George, Eve

Project Path at Illinois' College of DuPage was established to provide pre-employment training and career counseling for disabled students. To encourage the integration of qualified individuals with disabilities into the workplace, the project compiled this resource manual for area businesses, providing tips for interacting with disabled people…

Removal of Gross Air Embolization from Cardiopulmonary Bypass Circuits with Integrated Arterial Line Filters: A Comparison of Circuit Designs.

PubMed

Reagor, James A; Holt, David W

2016-03-01

Advances in technology, the desire to minimize blood product transfusions, and concerns relating to inflammatory mediators have lead many practitioners and manufacturers to minimize cardiopulmonary bypass (CBP) circuit designs. The oxygenator and arterial line filter (ALF) have been integrated into one device as a method of attaining a reduction in prime volume and surface area. The instructions for use of a currently available oxygenator with integrated ALF recommends incorporating a recirculation line distal to the oxygenator. However, according to an unscientific survey, 70% of respondents utilize CPB circuits incorporating integrated ALFs without a path of recirculation distal to the oxygenator outlet. Considering this circuit design, the ability to quickly remove a gross air bolus in the blood path distal to the oxygenator may be compromised. This in vitro study was designed to determine if the time required to remove a gross air bolus from a CPB circuit without a path of recirculation distal to the oxygenator will be significantly longer than that of a circuit with a path of recirculation distal to the oxygenator. A significant difference was found in the mean time required to remove a gross air bolus between the circuit designs (p = .0003). Additionally, There was found to be a statistically significant difference in the mean time required to remove a gross air bolus between Trial 1 and Trials 4 (p = .015) and 5 (p =.014) irrespective of the circuit design. Under the parameters of this study, a recirculation line distal to an oxygenator with an integrated ALF significantly decreases the time it takes to remove an air bolus from the CPB circuit and may be safer for clinical use than the same circuit without a recirculation line.

Traffic Noise Ground Attenuation Algorithm Evaluation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Herman, Lloyd Allen

The Federal Highway Administration traffic noise prediction program, STAMINA 2.0, was evaluated for its accuracy. In addition, the ground attenuation algorithm used in the Ontario ORNAMENT method was evaluated to determine its potential to improve these predictions. Field measurements of sound levels were made at 41 sites on I-440 in Nashville, Tennessee in order to both study noise barrier effectiveness and to evaluate STAMINA 2.0 and the performance of the ORNAMENT ground attenuation algorithm. The measurement sites, which contain large variations in terrain, included several cross sections. Further, all sites contain some type of barrier, natural or constructed, which could more fully expose the strength and weaknesses of the ground attenuation algorithms. The noise barrier evaluation was accomplished in accordance with American National Standard Methods for Determination of Insertion Loss of Outdoor Noise Barriers which resulted in an evaluation of this standard. The entire 7.2 mile length of I-440 was modeled using STAMINA 2.0. A multiple run procedure was developed to emulate the results that would be obtained if the ORNAMENT algorithm was incorporated into STAMINA 2.0. Finally, the predicted noise levels based on STAMINA 2.0 and STAMINA with the ORNAMENT ground attenuation algorithm were compared with each other and with the field measurements. It was found that STAMINA 2.0 overpredicted noise levels by an average of over 2 dB for the receivers on I-440, whereas, the STAMINA with ORNAMENT ground attenuation algorithm overpredicted noise levels by an average of less than 0.5 dB. The mean errors for the two predictions were found to be statistically different from each other, and the mean error for the prediction with the ORNAMENT ground attenuation algorithm was not found to be statistically different from zero. The STAMINA 2.0 program predicts little, if any, ground attenuation for receivers at typical first-row distances from highways where noise barriers are used. The ORNAMENT ground attenuation algorithm, which recognizes and better compensates for the presence of obstacles in the propagation path of a sound wave, predicted significant amounts of ground attenuation for most sites.

Teleseismic P and S wave attenuation constraints on temperature and melt of the upper mantle in the Alaska Subduction Zone.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Soto Castaneda, R. A.; Abers, G. A.; Eilon, Z.; Christensen, D. H.

2017-12-01

Recent broadband deployments in Alaska provide an excellent opportunity to advance our understanding of the Alaska-Aleutians subduction system, with implications for subduction processes worldwide. Seismic attenuation, measured from teleseismic body waves, provides a strong constraint on thermal structure as well as an indirect indication of ground shaking expected from large intermediate-depth earthquakes. We measure P and S wave attenuation from pairwise amplitude and phase spectral ratios for teleseisms recorded at 204 Transportable Array, Alaska Regional, and Alaska Volcano Observatory, SALMON (Southern Alaska Lithosphere & Mantle Observation Network) and WVLF (Wrangell Volcanics & subducting Lithosphere Fate) stations in central Alaska. The spectral ratios are inverted in a least squares sense for differential t* (path-averaged attenuation operator) and travel time anomalies at every station. Our preliminary results indicate a zone of low attenuation across the forearc and strong attenuation beneath arc and backarc in the Cook Inlet-Kenai region where the Aleutian-Yakutat slab subducts, similar to other subduction zones. This attenuation differential is observed in both the volcanic Cook Inlet segment and amagmatic Denali segments of the Aleutian subduction zone. By comparison, preliminary results for the Wrangell-St. Elias region past the eastern edge of the Aleutian slab show strong attenuation beneath the Wrangell Volcanic Field, as well as much further south than in the Cook Inlet-Kenai region. This pattern of attenuation seems to indicate a short slab fragment in the east of the subduction zone, though the picture is complex. Results also suggest the slab may focus or transmit energy with minimal attenuation, adding to the complexity. To image the critical transition between the Alaska-Aleutian slab and the region to its east, we plan to incorporate new broadband data from the WVLF array, an ongoing deployment of 37 PASSCAL instruments installed in 2016. These stations have 10-20 km spacing, spanning the edge of the subducting slab, and so will provide a zone of increased resolution in the region where slab behavior is poorly understood. We will discuss these data in the context of enigmatic Wrangell volcanism and its relationship to the eastern end of the Alaska-Aleutian Wadati-Benioff zone.

Q-values and Attenuation of the Shallow Crust Under Uturuncu Volcano, Bolivia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mcfarlin, H. L.; McNutt, S. R.; Thompson, G.

2017-12-01

Uturuncu Volcano, located in the Altiplano-Puna region of the central Andes, near the border of Bolivia and Chile, has been shown to be inflating at a rate of 1-2 cm/yr over an area that is about 70 km wide. The PLUTONS project deployed 28 broadband seismometers around Uturuncu from April 2009 to October 2012. Several thousand shallow (depth < 20 km) local earthquakes were recorded. Attenuation of seismic waves along travel paths for these local crustal earthquakes can be measured by calculating Q-values, which we have performed using the method of single station spectral ratios by Frankel (1982). Large scatter in the Q-values for various distances and travel times appear to be a function of variations in source depth, focal mechanism, and back azimuth. Preliminary Q-values were calculated for azimuths in 30° increments in sectors around each station. Estimates for Q range from about 60 to 700, with many showing a low Q in the direction of the summit from each station. This suggests that the volcanic pile is more highly attenuating than the surrounding crust.

Long time-series of turbid coastal water using AVHRR: An example from Florida Bay, USA

USGS Publications Warehouse

Stumpf, R.P.; Frayer, M.L.

1997-01-01

The AVHRR can provide information on the reflectance of turbid case II water, permitting examination of large estuaries and plumes from major rivers. The AVHRR has been onboard several NOAA satellites, with afternoon overpasses since 1981, offering a long time-series to examine changes in coastal water. We are using AVHRR data starting in December 1989, to examine water clarity in Florida Bay, which has undergone a decline since the late 1980's. The processing involves obtaining a nominal reflectance for red light with standard corrections including those for Rayleigh and aerosol path radiances. Established relationships between reflectance and the water properties being measured in the Bay provide estimates of diffuse attenuation and light limitation for phytoplankton and seagrass productivity studies. Processing also includes monthly averages of reflectance and attenuation. The AVHRR data set describes spatial and temporal patterns, including resuspension of bottom sediments in the winter, and changes in water clarity. The AVHRR also indicates that Florida Bay has much higher reflectivity relative to attenuation than other southeastern US estuaries. ??2005 Copyright SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering.

Narrow Angle Diversity using ACTS Ka-band Signal with Two USAT Ground Stations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kalu, A.; Emrich, C.; Ventre, J.; Wilson, W.; Acosta, R.

1998-01-01

Two ultra small aperture terminal (USAT) ground stations, separated by 1.2 km in a narrow angle diversity configuration, received a continuous Ka-band tone sent from Cleveland Link Evaluation Terminal (LET). The signal was transmitted to the USAT ground stations via NASA's Advanced Communications Technology Satellite (ACTS) steerable beam. Received signal power at the two sites was measured and analyzed. A dedicated datalogger at each site recorded time-of-tip data from tipping bucket rain gauges, providing rain amount and instantaneous rain rate. WSR-88D data was also obtained for the collection period. Eleven events with ground-to-satellite slant-path precipitation and resultant signal attenuation were observed during the data collection period. Fade magnitude and duration were compared at the two sites and diversity gain was calculated. These results exceeded standard diversity gain model predictions by several decibels. Rain statistics from tipping bucket data and from radar data were also compared to signal attenuation. The nature of Florida's subtropical rainfall, specifically its impact on signal attenuation at the sites, was addressed.

Fade Measurements into Buildings from 500 to 3000 MHz

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vogel, Wolfhard J.; Torrence, Geoffrey W.

1996-01-01

Slant-path fade measurements from 500 to 3000 MHz were made into six different buildings employing a vector network analyzer, a tower-mounted transmitting antenna and an automatically positioned receiving antenna. The objective of the measurements was to provide information for satellite audio broadcasting and personal communications satellite design on the correlation of fading inside buildings. Fades were measured with 5 cm spatial separation and every 0.2 percent of the frequency. Median fades ranged from 10 to 20 dB in woodframe houses with metal roofs and walls without and with an aluminum heat shield, respectively. The median decorrelation distance was from 0.5 to 1.1. m and was independent of frequency. The attenuation into the buildings increased only moderately with frequency in most of the buildings with a median slope of about 1 to 3 db/GHz, but increased fastest in the least attenuating building with a slope of 5 dB/GHz. The median decorrelation bandwidth ranged from 1.2 to 3.8 percent of frequency in five of the buildings, and was largest in the least attenuating building, with 20.2 percent of frequency.

Fade Measurements into Buildings from 500 to 3000 MHz

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vogel, Wolfhard J.; Torrence, Geoffrey W.

1996-01-01

Slant-path fade measurements from 500 to 3000 MHz were made into six different buildings employing a vector network analyzer, a tower-mounted transmitting antenna and an automatically positioned receiving antenna. The objective of the measurements was to provide information for satellite audio broadcasting and personal communications satellite design on the correlation of fading inside buildings. Fades were measured with 5 cm spatial separation and every 0.2% of the frequency. Median fades ranged from 10 to 20 dB in woodframe houses with metal roofs and walls without and with an aluminum heatshield, respectively. The median decorrelation distance was from 0.5 to 1.1 m and was independent of frequency. The attenuation into the buildings increased only moderately with frequency in most of the buildings with a median slope of about 1 to 3 dB/GHz, but increased fastest in the least attenuating building with a slope of 5 dB/GHz. The median decorrelation bandwidth ranged from 1.2 to 3.8% of frequency in five of the buildings, and was largest in the least attenuating building, with 20.2% of frequency.

Long time-series of turbid coastal water using AVHRR: an example from Florida Bay, USA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stumpf, Richard P.; Frayer, M. L.

1997-02-01

The AVHRR can provide information on the reflectance of turbid case II water, permitting examination of large estuaries and plumes from major rivers. The AVHRR has been onboard several NOAA satellites, with afternoon overpasses since 1981, offering a long time-series to examine changes in coastal water. We are using AVHRR data starting in December 1989, to examine water clarity in Florida Bay, which has undergone a decline since the late 1980's. The processing involves obtaining a nominal reflectance for red light with standard corrections including those for Rayleigh and aerosol path radiances. Established relationships between reflectance and the water properties being measured in the Bay provide estimates of diffuse attenuation and light limitation for phytoplankton and seagrass productivity studies. Processing also includes monthly averages of reflectance and attenuation. The AVHRR data set describes spatial and temporal patterns, including resuspension of bottom sediments in the winter, and changes in water clarity. The AVHRR also indicates that Florida Bay has much higher reflectivity relative to attenuation than other southeastern US estuaries.

Integrating obstacle avoidance, global path planning, visual cue detection, and landmark triangulation in a mobile robot

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kortenkamp, David; Huber, Marcus J.; Congdon, Clare B.; Huffman, Scott B.; Bidlack, Clint R.; Cohen, Charles J.; Koss, Frank V.; Raschke, Ulrich; Weymouth, Terry E.

1993-05-01

This paper describes the design and implementation of an integrated system for combining obstacle avoidance, path planning, landmark detection and position triangulation. Such an integrated system allows the robot to move from place to place in an environment, avoiding obstacles and planning its way out of traps, while maintaining its position and orientation using distinctive landmarks. The task the robot performs is to search a 22 m X 22 m arena for 10 distinctive objects, visiting each object in turn. This same task was recently performed by a dozen different robots at a competition in which the robot described in this paper finished first.

Soil and groundwater attenuation factors for nitrogen from septic systems in the Chesapeake Bay TMDL

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Radcliffe, D. E.; Geza, M.; O'Drisoll, M.; Humphrey, C., Jr.

2015-12-01

An expert panel was tasked with estimating the percent of the nitrogen (N) load from septic systems that was lost in the flow path from a typical home to third-order streams as part of the Chesapeake Bay Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL). These losses were referred to as attenuation factors. We developed values for the soil (unsaturated) zone and for the Piedmont and Coastal Plain groundwater zones. For the soil zone, we used the Soil Treatment Unit MODel (STUMOD) to estimate loses due to denitrification for all 12 soil textural classes and then averaged the results over three textural groups. Assuming hydraulic loading at the design rate and a conventional system, the attenuation factors were 16% for sand, loamy sand, sandy loam, and loam soils; 34% for silt loam, clay loam, sandy clay loam, silty clay loam, and silt soils; and 54% for sandy clay, silty clay, and clay soils. Attenuation factors increased in the more clayey soils due to wetter conditions and more losses due to denitrification. Attenuation factors were also developed for reduced hydraulic loading rates and for systems using advanced N pre-treatment. For the Piedmont groundwater zone, we used data from a recent study in Georgia of small suburban streams with high-density septic systems. Stream base-flow load was estimated using simultaneous measurements of total N concentration and discharge and compared to the estimated groundwater input load, resulting in an attenuation factor of 81%. For the Coastal Plain groundwater zone, literature values of groundwater N concentrations within septic system plumes in Virginia, North Carolina, and Florida were used to estimate an attenuation factor of approximately 60% at 100m downgradient from the drainfield. These attenuation factors will be used to estimate the contribution of N to the Chesapeake Bay in the Phase 6 TMDL models.

Resonance fluorescence trajectories in superconducting qubit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Naghiloo, Mahdi; Tan, Dian; Harrington, Patrick; Lewalle, Philippe; Jordan, Andrew; Murch, Kater

We employ phase-sensitive amplification to perform homodyne detection of the resonance fluorescence from a driven superconducting artificial atom. Entanglement between the emitter and its fluorescence allows us to track the individual quantum state trajectories of the emitter. We analyze the ensemble properties of these trajectories by considering paths that connect specific initial and final states. By applying a stochastic path integral formalism, we calculate equations of motion for the most likely path between two quantum states and compare these predicted paths to experimental data. Drawing on the mathematical similarity between the action formalism of the most likely quantum paths and ray optics, we study the emergence of caustics in quantum trajectories-situations where multiple extrema in the stochastic action occur. We observe such multiple most likely paths in experimental data and find these paths to be in reasonable quantitative agreement with theoretical calculations. Supported by the John Templeton Foundation.

Validation of double-pulse 1572 nm integrated path differential absorption lidar measurement of carbon dioxide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Du, Juan; Liu, Jiqiao; Bi, Decang; Ma, Xiuhua; Hou, Xia; Zhu, Xiaolei; Chen, Weibiao

2018-04-01

A ground-based double-pulse 1572 nm integrated path differential absorption (IPDA) lidar was developed for carbon dioxide (CO2) column concentrations measurement. The lidar measured the CO2 concentrations continuously by receiving the scattered echo signal from a building about 1300 m away. The other two instruments of TDLAS and in-situ CO2 analyzer measured the CO2 concentrations on the same time. A CO2 concentration measurement of 430 ppm with 1.637 ppm standard error was achieved.

Path integral Liouville dynamics: Applications to infrared spectra of OH, water, ammonia, and methane

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

Liu, Jian, E-mail: jianliupku@pku.edu.cn; State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871; Zhang, Zhijun

Path integral Liouville dynamics (PILD) is applied to vibrational dynamics of several simple but representative realistic molecular systems (OH, water, ammonia, and methane). The dipole-derivative autocorrelation function is employed to obtain the infrared spectrum as a function of temperature and isotopic substitution. Comparison to the exact vibrational frequency shows that PILD produces a reasonably accurate peak position with a relatively small full width at half maximum. PILD offers a potentially useful trajectory-based quantum dynamics approach to compute vibrational spectra of molecular systems.

Gauge fixing and BFV quantization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rogers, Alice

2000-01-01

Non-singularity conditions are established for the Batalin-Fradkin-Vilkovisky (BFV) gauge-fixing fermion which are sufficient for it to lead to the correct path integral for a theory with constraints canonically quantized in the BFV approach. The conditions ensure that the anticommutator of this fermion with the BRST charge regularizes the path integral by regularizing the trace over non-physical states in each ghost sector. The results are applied to the quantization of a system which has a Gribov problem, using a non-standard form of the gauge-fixing fermion.

Path-integral molecular dynamics simulations of hydrated hydrogen chloride cluster HCl(H 2O) 4 on a semiempirical potential energy surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takayanagi, Toshiyuki; Takahashi, Kenta; Kakizaki, Akira; Shiga, Motoyuki; Tachikawa, Masanori

2009-04-01

Path-integral molecular dynamics simulations for the HCl(H 2O) 4 cluster have been performed on the ground-state potential energy surface directly obtained on-the-fly from semiempirical PM3-MAIS molecular orbital calculations. It is found that the HCl(H 2O) 4 cluster has structural rearrangement above the temperature of 300 K showing a liquid-like behavior. Quantum mechanical fluctuation of hydrogen nuclei plays a significant role in structural arrangement processes in this cluster.

Path integral approach to closed-form option pricing formulas with applications to stochastic volatility and interest rate models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lemmens, D.; Wouters, M.; Tempere, J.; Foulon, S.

2008-07-01

We present a path integral method to derive closed-form solutions for option prices in a stochastic volatility model. The method is explained in detail for the pricing of a plain vanilla option. The flexibility of our approach is demonstrated by extending the realm of closed-form option price formulas to the case where both the volatility and interest rates are stochastic. This flexibility is promising for the treatment of exotic options. Our analytical formulas are tested with numerical Monte Carlo simulations.

Off-line robot programming and graphical verification of path planning

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tonkay, Gregory L.

1989-01-01

The objective of this project was to develop or specify an integrated environment for off-line programming, graphical path verification, and debugging for robotic systems. Two alternatives were compared. The first was the integration of the ASEA Off-line Programming package with ROBSIM, a robotic simulation program. The second alternative was the purchase of the commercial product IGRIP. The needs of the RADL (Robotics Applications Development Laboratory) were explored and the alternatives were evaluated based on these needs. As a result, IGRIP was proposed as the best solution to the problem.

Ka-Band Propagation Studies using the ACTS Propagation Terminal and the CSU-CHILL Multiparameter Radar

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bringi, V. N.; Beaver, John

1996-01-01

One of the first experimental communications satellites using Ka-band technology is the NASA Advanced Communications Technology Satellite (ACTS). In September 1993, ACTS was deployed into a geostationary orbit near 100 degrees W longitude by the space shuttle Discovery. The ACTS system supports both communication and propagation experiments at the 20/30 GHz frequency bands. The propagation experiment involves multi-year attenuation measurements along the satellite-Earth slant path.

A model for light distribution and average solar irradiance inside outdoor tubular photobioreactors for the microalgal mass culture

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

Fernandez, F.G.A.; Camacho, F.G.; Perez, J.A.S.

1997-09-05

A mathematical model to estimate the solar irradiance profile and average light intensity inside a tubular photobioreactor under outdoor conditions is proposed, requiring only geographic, geometric, and solar position parameters. First, the length of the path into the culture traveled by any direct or disperse ray of light was calculated as the function of three variables: day of year, solar hour, and geographic latitude. Then, the phenomenon of light attenuation by biomass was studied considering Lambert-Beer`s law (only considering absorption) and the monodimensional model of Cornet et al. (1900) (considering absorption and scattering phenomena). Due to the existence of differentialmore » wavelength absorption, none of the literature models are useful for explaining light attenuation by the biomass. Therefore, an empirical hyperbolic expression is proposed. The equations to calculate light path length were substituted in the proposed hyperbolic expression, reproducing light intensity data obtained in the center of the loop tubes. The proposed model was also likely to estimate the irradiance accurately at any point inside the culture. Calculation of the local intensity was thus extended to the full culture volume in order to obtain the average irradiance, showing how the higher biomass productivities in a Phaeodactylum tricornutum UTEX 640 outdoor chemostat culture could be maintained by delaying light limitation.« less

Modelling NDE pulse-echo inspection of misorientated planar rough defects using an elastic finite element method

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

Pettit, J. R.; Lowe, M. J. S.; Walker, A. E.

2015-03-31

Pulse-echo ultrasonic NDE examination of large pressure vessel forgings is a design and construction code requirement in the power generation industry. Such inspections aim to size and characterise potential defects that may have formed during the forging process. Typically these defects have a range of orientations and surface roughnesses which can greatly affect ultrasonic wave scattering behaviour. Ultrasonic modelling techniques can provide insight into defect response and therefore aid in characterisation. However, analytical approaches to solving these scattering problems can become inaccurate, especially when applied to increasingly complex defect geometries. To overcome these limitations a elastic Finite Element (FE) methodmore » has been developed to simulate pulse-echo inspections of embedded planar defects. The FE model comprises a significantly reduced spatial domain allowing for a Monte-Carlo based approach to consider multiple realisations of defect orientation and surface roughness. The results confirm that defects aligned perpendicular to the path of beam propagation attenuate ultrasonic signals according to the level of surface roughness. However, for defects orientated away from this plane, surface roughness can increase the magnitude of the scattered component propagating back along the path of the incident beam. This study therefore highlights instances where defect roughness increases the magnitude of ultrasonic scattered signals, as opposed to attenuation which is more often assumed.« less

Evaluative coping, emotional distress, and adherence in couples with Type 2 diabetes.

PubMed

Trump, Lisa J; Novak, Joshua R; Anderson, Jared R; Mendenhall, Tai J; Johnson, Matthew D; Scheufler, Ann C; Wilcox, Allison; Lewis, Virginia L; Robbins, David C

2018-03-01

Spousal support is one of the strongest and most consistent predictors of Type 2 diabetes treatment adherence. However, the effects of both spouses' evaluations of dyadic coping on emotional distress and patients' physical health remain largely unknown. Dyadic data from 117 married couples in which one member is diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes were evaluated in two separate models to explore the associations between (a) patients' and spouses' depression symptoms and patients' adherence to dietary and exercise regimens, and (b) patients' and spouses' acute stress levels and patients' adherence to dietary and exercise regimens. Finally, evaluative dyadic coping was included as a possible moderator between these associations. Results from an actor-partner interdependence model revealed significant actor effects of patients' depression symptoms on patients' adherence to dietary and exercise regimens. Spouses' evaluation of dyadic coping attenuated the direct paths between spouses' depression symptoms and patients' adherence to dietary regimens. No direct pathways were found from patients' or spouses' acute stress to patients' adherence to dietary and exercise regimens. However, spouses' evaluation of dyadic coping attenuated the direct paths between spouses' acute stress and patients' adherence to dietary regimens. Tapping into spouses' evaluations of dyadic coping has significant implications for patients' diabetes health outcomes (e.g., adherence to dietary and exercise treatment regimens). Findings from this study highlight the need for systemic interventions targeting both partners. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved).

A novel high-pressure vessel for simultaneous observations of seismic velocity and in situ CO2 distribution in a porous rock using a medical X-ray CT scanner

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiang, Lanlan; Nishizawa, Osamu; Zhang, Yi; Park, Hyuck; Xue, Ziqiu

2016-12-01

Understanding the relationship between seismic wave velocity or attenuation and CO2 saturation is essential for CO2 storage in deep saline formations. In the present study, we describe a novel upright high-pressure vessel that is designed to keep a rock sample under reservoir conditions and simultaneously image the entire sample using a medical X-ray CT scanner. The pressure vessel is composed of low X-ray absorption materials: a carbon-fibre-enhanced polyetheretherketone (PEEK) cylinder and PEEK vessel closures supported by carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) joists. The temperature was controlled by a carbon-coated film heater and an aramid fibre thermal insulator. The assembled sample cell allows us to obtain high-resolution images of rock samples during CO2 drainage and brine imbibition under reservoir conditions. The rock sample was oriented vertical to the rotation axis of the CT scanner, and seismic wave paths were aligned parallel to the rotation axis to avoid shadows from the acoustic transducers. The reconstructed CO2 distribution images allow us to calculate the CO2 saturation in the first Fresnel zone along the ray path between transducers. A robust relationship between the seismic wave velocity or attenuation and the CO2 saturation in porous rock was obtained from experiments using this pressure vessel.

Accurate path integration in continuous attractor network models of grid cells.

PubMed

Burak, Yoram; Fiete, Ila R

2009-02-01

Grid cells in the rat entorhinal cortex display strikingly regular firing responses to the animal's position in 2-D space and have been hypothesized to form the neural substrate for dead-reckoning. However, errors accumulate rapidly when velocity inputs are integrated in existing models of grid cell activity. To produce grid-cell-like responses, these models would require frequent resets triggered by external sensory cues. Such inadequacies, shared by various models, cast doubt on the dead-reckoning potential of the grid cell system. Here we focus on the question of accurate path integration, specifically in continuous attractor models of grid cell activity. We show, in contrast to previous models, that continuous attractor models can generate regular triangular grid responses, based on inputs that encode only the rat's velocity and heading direction. We consider the role of the network boundary in the integration performance of the network and show that both periodic and aperiodic networks are capable of accurate path integration, despite important differences in their attractor manifolds. We quantify the rate at which errors in the velocity integration accumulate as a function of network size and intrinsic noise within the network. With a plausible range of parameters and the inclusion of spike variability, our model networks can accurately integrate velocity inputs over a maximum of approximately 10-100 meters and approximately 1-10 minutes. These findings form a proof-of-concept that continuous attractor dynamics may underlie velocity integration in the dorsolateral medial entorhinal cortex. The simulations also generate pertinent upper bounds on the accuracy of integration that may be achieved by continuous attractor dynamics in the grid cell network. We suggest experiments to test the continuous attractor model and differentiate it from models in which single cells establish their responses independently of each other.

The Integrated Curriculum of "Planned Approach to Healthier Schools"

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lounsbery, Monica; Gast, Julie; Smith, Nicole

2005-01-01

Planned Approach to Healthier Schools (PATHS) is a multicomponent school program that aims to establish and sustain a social norm consistent with physical activity and healthy nutrition in the school community. The PATHS components include: (1) a professional development and wellness program for faculty and staff; (2) ongoing social-marketing…

Promoting Social Competence and Inclusion: Taking Alternative Paths

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sarmento, Patricia; Almeida, Katia; Rauktis, Mary Elizabeth; Bernardo, Susana

2008-01-01

Trilhos Alternativos (Alternative Paths) is a community-based program that aims to integrate African-Portuguese urban youth from low-income families into Portuguese society. This article describes the first year of the program and presents formative data about effectiveness of the program. The motivation system seems to be an indirect variable…

Social Cognitive Model of College Satisfaction: A Test of Measurement and Path Models

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Feldt, Ronald C.

2012-01-01

The study examined a model that integrates social-cognitive and trait-personality constructs to examine two domains of college satisfaction. Direct and indirect effects were observed for conscientiousness, perception of institutional resources, self-efficacy, and goal progress. Paths differed for personal and institutional satisfaction. Most…

Ground effects in FAA's Integrated Noise Model

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2000-01-01

The lateral attenuation algorithm in the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) Integrated Noise Model (INM) has historically been based on the two regression equations described in the Society of Automotive Engineers' (SAE) Aerospace Information Re...

Positive and negative social exchanges and cognitive aging in young-old adults: differential associations across family, friend, and spouse domains.

PubMed

Windsor, Tim D; Gerstorf, Denis; Pearson, Elissa; Ryan, Lindsay H; Anstey, Kaarin J

2014-03-01

We examined how positive and negative social exchanges with friends, family, and spouses were related to cognitive aging in episodic and working memory, and perceptual speed. To do so, we used a large sample of cognitively intact young-old participants from the PATH Through Life Study (PATH; aged 60 to 64 years at baseline, n = 1,618) who were assessed on 3 occasions over 8 years. Additional replication analyses were conducted using the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), which provided data on episodic memory. The main analysis of PATH Through Life showed that positive exchanges with friends and family were associated with less decline in perceptual speed, with these associations attenuated by adjustment for physical functioning and depressive symptoms. Negative exchanges with spouses were associated with poorer working memory performance. Positive exchanges with friends were associated with better initial episodic memory in both PATH and HRS. More frequent negative exchanges with friends and family were associated with better episodic memory in the PATH sample. However, these findings were not replicated in HRS. Our findings provide indirect support for the role of social exchange quality in contributing to cognitive enrichment. However, the inconsistent pattern of results across cognitive and social exchange domains points to possibilities of reverse causality, and may also indicate that social exchange quality plays a less important role for cognitive enrichment than other psychosocial characteristics. (c) 2014 APA, all rights reserved.

Evaluation of the communications impact of a low power arcjet thruster

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Carney, Lynnette M.

1988-01-01

The interaction of a 1 kW arcjet thruster plume with a communications signal is evaluated. A two-parameter, source flow equation has been used to represent the far flow field distribution of the arcjet plume in a realistic spacecraft configuration. Modelling the plume as a plasma slab, the interaction of the plume with a 4 GHz communications signal is then evaluated in terms of signal attenuation and phase shift between transmitting and receiving antennas. Except for propagation paths which pass very near the arcjet source, the impacts to transmission appear to be negligible. The dominant signal loss mechanism is refraction of the beam rather than absorption losses due to collisions. However, significant reflection of the signal at the sharp vacuum-plasma boundary may also occur for propagation paths which pass near the source.